Purpose

Summary of outcomes From a property perspective, the proposed lease will: - regularise Mencap’s long standing occupation of the site - remove ongoing uncertainty around property responsibility - remove ongoing potential property liabilities and associated risks from the Council - enable Mencap to invest in the premises From an Adult Care perspective, the proposed lease will: - support continuity of care for residents - protect residents' interests - safeguard the ongoing use of the premises for adult care - LCC will have nomination rights to propose new residents when there are vacancies The Executive Director of Adult Care and Community Wellbeing, Martin Samuels, has confirmed that this proposal will have no adverse impact on commissioned services.

Decision

To approve the grant of an effective freehold by way of a 999-year lease of Fairview Farm, Gloucester Road, Grantham to Grantham and District Mencap Limited at a peppercorn rent, with appropriate safeguards to protect the Council and the Executive Director of Adult Care and Community Wellbeing, Martin Samuels, has reviewed and approved this proposal.

Alternative options considered

1. Do nothing – Not recommended. This would result in the continued physical deterioration of the premises. 2. Joint Disposal – Not recommended. An alternative location for the current restricted use would need to be found and the cost of purchasing a site and building a new purpose built premises will not be financially viable. 3. Continue with failed lease negotiations – Not recommended. This legacy issue has been ongoing for 40 plus years, resulting in a deteriorating situation and asset.