Decision

Summary of
Decision
 
The Cabinet Member for Communities has
approved the proposed approach and delivery model to develop the
city-wide Community Hubs Programme, and the approved the proposed
funding approach, including capital and revenue drawn down and
spend for Ernest Harriss House and Bayswater Children’s
Centre community hubs. The Cabinet Member has also approved the
delegation of authority to the Executive Director of Environment
and Communities following consultation with the Executive Director
of Finance and Resources to approve any further decisions on
expenditure of allocated Hub funds, and any necessary agreements
and related arrangements to enable the Community Hubs
Programme.
 
Finally, the Cabinet Member has noted the
information provided on the Charing Cross and Victoria Library mini
hubs programme as detailed in the report.
 
Reasons for
Decision
 
In 2022, Westminster City Council launched its
new Fairer Westminster agenda, establishing a range of commitments
to improve life outcomes for Westminster residents under five key
pillars. The Fairer Westminster plan includes the delivery of a set
of new ‘Community Hubs’, which should strengthen
community connections and make it easier for local communities to
access different services in one place throughout
neighbourhoods.
 
This report sets out the Community Hubs
Programme’s recommended approach and delivery model, which
aims to fulfil the Council’s on-going commitments to create a
more equitable borough. This includes the Programme’s wider
aims and objectives, approach and planned programme areas and
investments, and also seeks approval to progress project delivery,
by progressing the pre-planning stage of the Bayswater
Children’s Centre and next steps of Ernest Harriss House
community hubs.