Content

8.1

The committee considered a report of the Executive
Director of Neighbourhood  Services containing correspondence
received from the Charities Commission regarding Graves Park and
setting out a proposed response.

8.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY:
That the Charity Trustee Sub-Committee:-

·      
Approve the contents of the proposed response letter to the Charity
Commission with the following additions:

o  
wording to make it clear that the income received from the tennis
courts is income from the operator and not direct income

o  
reference in the section on conflicts of interest to
the fact that there is now a specific committee separate to the
Committee responsible for Parks more generally that takes decisions
on behalf of the Council and Charity Trustee

o  
reference to the intention of members of the
Committee to do a site visit to Norton Nurseries

o  
specific reference in the next steps section to the
fact that regularising the position at Norton Nurseries will
include applying for any necessary consents/orders from the Charity
Commission
 

·      
Request that officers will forward this correspondence to the
Charity Commission by way of an emailed letter, within 3 working
days of the decision.

 

 

8.3

Reasons for Decision

8.3.1

Responding to the Charity Commission maintains the ongoing
relationship with the Charity Commission which is essential to
ensure that whatever plans the Trustee settles on for the various
matters in Graves Park and the wider charitable interests are
implemented lawfully.

8.3.2

To maintain good governance, it is important for the
Graves Park Charity Trustees approve any significant correspondence
with the CC.

 

 

8.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

 

Do nothing. This could lead to the outcome set out at paragraph
4.3.1 of the report and also cause
reputational damage to the Council