Democracy in Crawley

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Decision details

Extension of lease agreement of the Orchard Building to Crawley Community Action

Decision Maker: Head of Community Services

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Purpose:

Crawley Community Action (CCA), a voluntary and community sector infrastructure organisation, have a lease agreement (peppercorn rent) in place with the Council for The Orchard, 1-2 Gleneagles Court, Brighton Road, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 6AD, until December 2021.

CCA are seeking an extension to the lease agreement, forming part of their business model to deliver their future programme of work.

CCA sub-let part of the building to a number of other VCS organisations such as Citizens Advice and these organisations are entitled to six months notice from CCA to the proposed termination of their agreement.

CCA have historically received significant funding through the Council's Community Grants programme, however this ceased in 2021/22 in response to a change in focus by the Council, necessitated by financial pressures and subsequent budget reduction to the Grants programme. It should be noted that the favourable lease agreement is an "in kind" form of funding from the Council and as such will need to show clear outcomes for Crawley residents.

Further to this reduction in funding, Council Officers remain in positive dialogue with CCA to understand their future delivery model and how it meets Council priorities for residents and communities.

Decision:

Option 2 - Agree a 6 month extension to the current lease agreement, to June 21st 2022, with a view to further extension based on CCA's future business plan.

This decision has been taken in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Community Engagement.

Alternative options considered:

Option 1 - Cease the lease agreement with CCA on 21st December 2021 with The Orchard returning to the Council's operational control.


Option 2 - Agree a 6 month extension to the current lease agreement, to June 21st 2022, with a view to further extension, based on CCA's future business plan.

Publication date: 06/07/2021

Date of decision: 16/06/2021