Issue - meetings

The Director of Finance and Business Improvement presented the report.  The report outlined a request for further investment in developing Lockmeadow, in accordance with the agreed approach when purchasing it in 2019.  The food hall and play area had been the second phase of development, but the focus was now on two areas.  These were the Market Hall and under-croft, and further developing the play area which had been very popular since it had opened.

The aims were to upgrade the Market Hall and under-croft to improve utilisation and to provide more equipment in the play area for older children in order to drive footfall.  The conservative estimate was that the investment would pay back within 10 years.

In supporting the proposals the Committee requested that support for children with Special Education Needs was provided through investing in specialist play equipment.  The committee also requested that consideration be given to diversifying the catering offer in the Market Hall.

RESOLVED:  That

1.  The proposals for improvement works be supported;

2.  The requested capital spend be approved;

3.  Authority be delegated to the Director of Finance and Business Improvement to undertake a procurement process and award such contracts for delivery of the works in line with financial procedure rules and applicable public contracts regulations and principles; and

4.  The Head of Mid Kent Legal Services be authorised to complete the necessary contract documentation and agreements associated with the works.