Agenda item

To review the decision of the Deputy Leader of the Council taken on 2 March 2022 as a result of the matter having been called in.

Cllr Ebril introduced this item and outlined the process to be followed. It was re-iterated that only comments and questions relating to the points included within the Reasons for Call-in would be permitted. The Chair welcomed Councillor Vince as the Call-in lead.

Councillor Vince explained the reasons for the call in as set out in the agenda pack highlighting that the Dugdale is a much-loved asset in the community and the new proposals do not enhance the museum space, or guarantee disabled access toilets for the town centre. Councillor Vince raised concerns on the procurement process not providing value for money.

In response Councillor Barnes stated the proposals improved learning & wellbeing whilst creating space for residents of all ages to get together. Previously the Dugdale had become tired and cluttered making it not fit for purpose. These proposals will make it modern with the new museum set up in a prime location for visitors. Councillor Barnes confirmed that there would still be a disabled toilet in the facility.

Members of the Committee asked the below questions.

Q: Why refurbish the Dugdale now?

A: The site has been used a vaccination centre highlighting its need for a refresh. The first and second floor refurbishment of the Thomas Hardy site has already started providing a cost effective opportunity to use the same contractor. The new design will be a creative space and attract new customers.

Q: What is the current floor space of the museum compared to the future plans?

A: It was not a “museum” on the first floor of the Dugdale, it was corridors with display cabinets which weren’t visited unless attending a meeting in that area. The new museum will be less square foot space but much more visible and accessible space. The designated space will be built on the success of the popular Culture Palace.  

Q: Will there be a like for like replacement of the disabled toilets?

A: Yes.

Q: The figures in the report are unclear.

A: The budget for the 1^st  and 2^nd floor renovations include a discrete budget for the ground floor of £76k to cover the cost of moving the museum.. The opportunity for a broader refurb has occurred. The income from the previous 1^st floor was made up largely of internal recharges in the Council.

Q: How will the existing contract support the Council in relation to value and quality?

A: A national framework has been used for the 1^st and 2^nd floor redevelopment which is assessed against quality and price. All sub-contracts have been individually tendered. The Culture Palace has been nominated for RIBA awards,, and increased footfall, this will remain in place until the Dugdale is re-opened.

Q: The report refers to a £6m spend. How will this been spent?

A: This does not relate to this call-in and is being used on the 1^st & 2^nd floor refurbishments to create a Children’s and Family Service’s Hub.

Q: The two projects are happening at the same time with the same contract, could of the £6m be used for some of the works taking place on the ground floor?

A: £76 from the £6m budget for floors 1 and 2 has been allocated for the move of the museum. There may not be a need to spend all of the £1.5 on the ground floor scheme as the same contractor is being set up they will not need to set up the same preliminary requirements on a building site, such as a site office, as they already exist. However, the materials costs have increased which may affect this.

Q: What are the risks involved in not going ahead with the refurbishment?

A: The Dugdale was a rundown site. The refurbishment will guarantee its survival in the future. The site being used as vaccine centre has caused damage to the site. By completing the refurbishment there will be increased football at the Dugdale through the improved bar and café areas.

Q: Why has the main entrance of the Dugdale been moved?

A:. The entrance will not be behind the bus stop in the area but directly by the crossing and will have improved signage for the Dugdale. It is hoped that the café will be popular with those working in the Microsoft office. The museum will be a central feature when walking into the Dugdale whereas previously the displays available were not done justice. The new Dugdale will include a small flexible performing space for poetry readings, music, etc, which can be used when an auditorium is not necessary. Repeat bookers for events at the Dugdale were previously very low with 19% of transactions for one ticket.

Q: This will cost £1.5m of tax payers money, how is the cost justifiable?

A: The cost is inline with a refurbishment of a building that size and includes the costs of furnishings for the building.

AGREED:

To refer the matter back to the decision maker, Councillor Ian Barnes, to consider the below:

·         The vision to be better articulated.

• Breakdown of finances for each area of the Dugdale
• Income projections against spend and recharge losses.