Issue - meetings

Reporting Person – Leigh Clarke

The Executive received the Investment Programme 2019-20 to 2023-24 which set out the capital and one off investments required to deliver the Council’s key strategies and objectives.

Regarding paragraph 8.28, the Executive was informed that the Investment Programme included allowance for a £705k loan to Freedom Leisure to finance improvements to the changing rooms at Pool in the Park.  It was explained that the works had been costed at £925k and that, in order to achieve the desired benefits such as an accessible changing places facility, it was proposed that the Council would use the Asset Management Plan budget to provide the additional investment to complete the upgrade.

Following a question regarding Lockfield Drive Junction, the Executive was advised that the improvement works were part of the Victoria Square development.  It was noted that the new cycle bridge was part of the Woking Sustainable Transport Package.

Regarding the Robin Hood site, the Executive was advised that the site had been acquired for development by Rutland Woking.  It was noted that Ward Members would be invited to a briefing in due course.

Discussion ensued on Brookwood Cemetery, an important heritage asset in the Borough.  The Executive was informed that a Masterplan was currently being worked upon and a presentation to Members would take place on 26 February 2020.  It was commented that substantial improvements had been made since the Council purchased the Cemetery, however further investment would be required to protect the heritage asset.

REcommended to Council

That  (i)    the Investment Programme 2019/20 to 2023/24 be approved subject to reports on projects where appropriate;

          (ii)   the proposed financing arrangements be approved;

          (iii)  additional loan facility of £500,000 to Thameswey Energy Ltd be approved on the same basis as previous loans; and

          (iv)  capital and revenue grants for Brookwood Cemetery for 2021/22 be approved.

Reason:   To recommend to the Council that it approves the capital resources for 2019/20 onwards considered necessary to support its service plans and objectives.