Purpose

To gain approval to proceed to create Wallisdown Hub

Decision

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)        approved the development of a Service Hub at Wallisdown Heights as per Option 2 referred to in this report;

(b)       approved the partial use of capital receipt from the disposal of Cabot Lane Depot to invest in the necessary improvements to establish the Wallisdown Service Hub; and

(c)        approved the sequence of associated moves to enable the release of multiple assets from corporate operational use.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

The recommended option delivers a range of strategic benefits, including retaining the New to You service and creating a single community-based multi-service hub that improves access for residents. It supports closer collaboration between services, enabling more integrated and effective support for families and service users. The proposal brings a vacant council asset back into productive use while reducing ongoing costs and future maintenance liabilities. It enables wider estate rationalisation, including disposal of Cabot Lane Depot and release of other sites, generating a capital receipt.

Prior to moving into exempt session, the Leader of the Council addressed Cabinet and noted that this would be the last Cabinet meeting attended by Cathi Hadley, Director for Children’s Services, before leaving the Council.

The Leader placed on record Cabinet’s thanks to Cathi for her valued expertise, dedication and significant contribution to supporting children, young people and families across BCP.