The Finance and Economic Overview and Scrutiny Committee of North Kesteven Council discussed several key topics, including the Maintenance Strategy for corporate property assets, the construction of the Waste Depot at Turnpike Close, Grantham, and the St Martin's Park redevelopment project in Stamford. Decisions were made to recommend the Maintenance Strategy for Cabinet approval and to request regular updates on the Waste Depot project.

Maintenance Strategy (Corporate Property Assets)

The Leader of the Council presented a new Maintenance Strategy for corporate assets. The absence of a previous strategy and lack of investment had left many council-owned buildings, such as car parks and leisure centres, in poor condition. A condition survey is being conducted to establish a baseline, and £1m has been allocated in the 2024-25 budget for asset investment. The strategy aims to prioritise repairs based on the Corporate Plan and service delivery needs. The strategy will be linked to the Asset Management Strategy and the Disposal Strategy. The Council has also invested in a new asset management system to forecast accurate budgets. The committee recommended that the Maintenance Strategy be presented to Cabinet for approval.

Update on Waste Depot Construction

The Leader of the Council provided an update on the Waste Depot construction at Turnpike Close, Grantham. Following budget and planning permission approvals, the project is moving towards the construction phase. The current bid exceeds the budget, and successful bidders have been asked to review their costings. The contractor is expected to begin mobilisation in October 2024. The committee requested regular progress reports, with the next update scheduled for June 2024. The Deputy Chief Executive clarified that the project budget is £8.8m, covering construction, project management, and external consultants.

St Martin's Park Redevelopment Project

The Leader of the Council updated the committee on the St Martin's Park redevelopment project in Stamford. The Council has applied for £2.8m from the Brownfield Land Release Fund. The project may proceed regardless of funding, but the application aims to offset the projected deficit. Concerns were raised about electricity standing charges and site disconnection costs. The Head of Corporate Projects, Policy and Performance confirmed that the Cummins side of the site would generate enough electricity for half of the future development. The committee noted the progress and requested updates on the project's financial scenarios and employment land status.

Financial Position of East Midlands Building Consultancy

The Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning provided an update on the East Midlands Building Consultancy, a partnership between the Council, Newark and Sherwood District Council, and Rushcliffe Borough Council. The consultancy ensures building safety and sets construction standards. The economic climate has reduced applications, impacting income. The partnership remains stable, with costs reduced for each local authority. The committee agreed to receive an update in 12 months.

Grantham Future High Streets Fund

The Leader of the Council presented an update on the Grantham Future High Streets Fund. The report covered five subsets, including public realm projects and the Conduit Lane Toilet refurbishment. Concerns were raised about opposition to the marketplace development. The Council must decide whether to pursue the scheme or return £1.5m to the Government. The committee noted the report and offered feedback to the Future High Street Fund Programme Board.

Economic Development Strategy 2024-2028

The Leader of the Council presented the Economic Development Strategy for 2024-2028. The strategy has evolved to align with the newly adopted Corporate Plan. A Members Workshop was held to encourage consensus. The strategy includes key themes and economic goals. The committee discussed the alignment with other strategies and the importance of employment levels in Lincolnshire. Members requested detailed information on aspirations and deliverables. The consultation process is ongoing, with feedback welcomed from the public. The committee noted the report and requested further updates.

Work Programme 2024-2025

The committee reviewed the Work Programme for 2024-2025. A query was raised about unscheduled items, and it was requested that the End of Year KPIs be moved to the June 2024 meeting.