Agenda item

To review the Portfolio decision taken on 22 October 2021 as a result of the matter having been Called-in.

(This item contains exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 (information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person – including the authority holding that information) of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, as amended).

Cllr Thorpe was welcomed as the Call-In lead and highlighted the following:

·         All concerns have been highlighted in the agenda papers.

·         There has been a lack of stakeholder engagement during the process. Residents and site holders have been consistent in their opposition to these plans. They have held protests and petitions and detailed submissions.

·         Only 35% of the scoring bids related to rent or premium offered, yet we have been repeatedly told that financial implications have been cited as a main driver in looking to lease the site. The total rent received will only be circa £2m for the 25 year period, which is hugely undervaluing the site.

·         The proposal does not specifically say that the £500k upfront is ring fenced for improvements to Whitewebbs.

·         The bidding process took place before lockdown. The pandemic has changed the economy, the retail, hospitality, and leisure industry but the report does not address this.

·         The plan reduces public access as areas of the park that are currently open to the public are planned to be turned into a private training facility.