The Director of Finance and Business Improvement introduced the report and outlined the previous consideration of the issue. This included a feasibility study based on the principles previously agreed by the Committee. The resulting options were then further considered and expanded upon by the Committee and subject to formal public consultation. Potential partners had been identified through formal routes, wide publicity and direct contact; however the responses received had been limited as the building did not fit into any recognised business model. 

Two proposals had been received and were summarised in the report, with the Committee to consider and decide which proposal should be subject to an exclusivity agreement (EA) across a six-month period. The EA would allow for further work to be undertaken by the bidder on their proposal.

The bid received from Balfour Hospitality proposed a boutique hotel with 25 rooms but would require three new buildings within the palace’s grounds. The bid received by an internal team of the Council envisaged significantly less change, with the site’s primary use to be as a wedding venue.

The Committee felt that both proposals had positive elements they could support but felt that the Balfour proposal should be taken forward.  In doing so the need to factor in climate change considerations was stressed, alongside the very difficult challenges and high planning hurdles that the Balfour proposal would need to meet.  In response to questions the Committee were informed that the Gatehouse was no longer leased out and was vacant, and that the only information currently available in the proposals, including as to how the public would continue to access the buildings, was contained in the proposals. 

It was noted that the Balfour option relied on the three new buildings and proposed little change to the Archbishops Palace building itself. The Palace would only have very limited changes and would be used as a dining, training, wedding and conference venue.  By entering into an exclusivity agreement further work would be completed by the bidder to demonstrate how the challenges of the site would be met and provide more detail.

The Committee recognised the importance and heritage of the Archbishop’s Palace and the high planning requirements that created but felt that the Balfour proposal showed some real ambition for Maidstone. The potential alignment between the proposal, the Council’s Economic Development Strategy and overall enhancement of the town’s heritage was highlighted.

The Committee questioned whether 6 months was long enough for detailed proposals to come forward and thought it was important that a longer period could be granted if requested, but it was accepted that six months was an appropriate starting point.

RESOLVED:  That the Council grant Balfour Hospitality the exclusivity period of 6 months, to be able to do some detailed work and come back with a convincing proposal.