Issue - meetings

This report provides an update on various operational property issues relating to the Barham Park Estate and has been submitted for consideration alongside Agenda Item 8 - Strategic Property Matters which outlines the overarching strategy from which operational activities will flow for ensuring the Barham Park Estate is sustainable, well-maintained, and aligned with the Trust's charitable objectives.

RESOLVED to:

(1)        Delegate day-to-day Trustee functions and decision-making authority to the Director of Property and Assets, replacing the Director, Public Realm (formerly the Operational Director for Environmental Services, as detailed within paragraph 3.4 of the report.

(2)        Authorise the Director of Property and Assets to renew the expired leases for Units 1, 2, and 8 and regularise any associated subtenancies, as outlined in paragraph 3.7 of the report.

(3)        Authorise the Director of Property and Assets to let Unit 7 for meanwhile use as outlined in paragraph 3.8 of the report.

(4)        To approve the use of restricted funds, under existing Charity Commission permissions, to carry out essential repairs (year one) identified in the Watts analysis, valued at £269k plus professional fees, ensuring the building remains safe and compliant, as detailed within paragraphs 3.20 to 3.26 of the report.

(5)        Note that the Director of Property and Assets will implement service charges for all tenants under their lease terms, starting from the 2025-26 fiscal year, as detailed in paragraph 3.9 of the report.

(6)         Note that the Director of Property and Assets will continue negotiations with Zenaster Properties Ltd for the potential amendment to the restrictive covenant at 776 and 778 Harrow Road, as outlined in paragraph 3.12 of the report.

(7)        Note that the Director of Property and Assets will finalise terms, submit necessary applications to the Charity Commission, address any related issues, and, if required by the Charity Commission under Section 283 of the Charities Act 2011, provide public notice of this resolution.

(8)         Note that the Director of Property and Assets will seek to agree on repayment plans with tenants in arrears, which may include re-gearing leases to ensure sustainability. If an agreement cannot be reached or a default occurs, leases may be terminated for breach, as detailed within paragraph 3.10 of the report.

(9)        Authorise the Director of Property and Assets to seek the consent of the Charity Commission where required to fulfil the recommendations in this report.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Tuesday 17 September 2024