Purpose

A report on the Farnham Park Sports Field charitable trust operations

Decision

The report recommended a revised operating model for the golf course and playing fields sites that form the assets of the Farnham Park Sports Fields charitable trust, for which Buckinghamshire Council was sole corporate trustee. There was a significant cost to the Council in maintaining the playing fields and golf course since they did not generate enough income to offset operating and maintenance costs, despite fees and charges having been increased. Wider pressures on Council budgets and the requirement to prioritise statutory services meant that the current arrangements were not financially sustainable and therefore new operating arrangements were required.

The recommendation was to go to the market to offer long-term lease arrangement(s) for the sites, with appropriate clauses to ensure continuing community access in line with the charitable objectives. This would reduce the maintenance costs and support the financial sustainability of the charitable trust. Cabinet Members emphasised that they were fully committed to securing the future of these valued recreation facilities.

RESOLVED –

(1)               That it be agreed to take to the market the opportunity for long-term leasing arrangements for the South Buckinghamshire Golf Course and Farnham Park Playing Fields, to include requirements for continuing community access in line with the legislation governing these sites.

(2)               That authority be delegated to the Service Director for Culture, Sport and Leisure, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure and the Service Directors for Property and Assets and of Legal Services, to undertake all necessary steps to progress the marketing of the lease; and subject to receipt of acceptable offers, to negotiate suitable Heads of Terms and arrange leases with tenant(s).