Decision

Exemption from publication: There are confidential appendices to this report, which are exempt by virtue of paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A of Part 1 of Schedule 12a of the Local Government Act 1972 because they contain information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

To renew Lease with All Spring Media (ASM) in respect of Old Drill Hall, Bellingdon Road, Chesham HP5 2HA

Reasons for the decision

The Old Drill Hall is situated on Bellingdon Road, Chesham.

The ground and first floor areas currently occupied by ASM (formerly Chesham Media and Performing Arts College) are a combination of office space, classrooms and studios. The property adjoins the Hall itself, and this is currently occupied by Chesham Youth Centre Ltd.

ASM provide free training programmes for those looking for a career in the screen industries.
ASM have occupied the building since 24th July 2018 with the current lease having expired on the 23rd July 2023.

ASM have been holding over on the existing lease terms since this point.

It has been provisionally agreed with ASM that the lease be renewed on the same terms. A summary of the terms is within the confidential appendix.

Alternative options considered

Alternation Option Considered: Council takes possession of property back

Benefit:

• Opportunity for Council to put property to alternative use and/or seek new tenant.
• Disposal could be considered.

Disbenefit:

o No alternative use identified by the Council.
o Building/site likely to require significant capital expenditure.
o (Temporary) Loss of income stream.
o Chesham Youth Centre are in occupation until 2038.

Alternation Option Considered: Seek longer lease/disposal to ASM

Benefit:

o Potential capital receipt.

Disbenefit:

o Loss of income stream.
o ASM have expressed no interest in long lease for the time being.
o Would not be feasible to dispose of only part of site