Purpose

A request for funding has been received from
the charity The Junction, forwarded by the Chief Executive from
John Sampson Managing Director (Head of Paid Service)Redcar

Decision

The Leader has confirmed the request for
funding is declined.
Officers carried out an initial assessment of the ‘Business
Case’ produced by the charity for the proposal. Whilst it was
a programme fronted by Amazon with operations established in Fife
and Wigan, some concerns were raised about its longer term
financial viability, the need for further clarity on the business
model and assumed overall level of benefit it would deliver to
Darlington residents. The context is also that DBC don’t
provide significant general fund resources to charities already
operating in Darlington and that strong justification would be
required.
The Leader of the Council consulted with cabinet colleagues and in
conclusion was not persuaded by the TV argument proposed.