Agenda item

Should the Scrutiny Committee wish to consider Appendix 2 it is recommended to resolve that, in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public and press be excluded during discussion on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of exempt information, as defined in the respective paragraph of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act, and the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

The Committee considered a report providing an update on the progress of the project programme and delivery of a sports hub at Moredon Recreation Ground, as approved by Cabinet in 2018 (Cabinet Minute 86, 2017/18 refers). The Committee resolved that, in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public and press would be excluded should discussion of the matters contained within Appendix 2 arise, on the grounds that it would involve the likely disclosure of exempt information, as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act, and the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

Councillor Keith Williams, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Operational Excellence, introduced the report and referred to the interest from British Cycling and the Wiltshire Football Association in the site due to its ideal location and the demographic reach within Swindon. Councillor Williams confirmed that these agencies have the funds available to invest in this proposal, but that there will also have to be an element of match funding from the Borough Council, coming from S106 receipts.

The Committee noted that provision suggested for the site includes an off-road cycling track, junior football pitches, and a 3G floodlit astro-turf pitch. Councillor Williams highlighted how the long-term viability of the Hub is a key criterion for British Cycling and the Wiltshire Football Association and there is an expectation that revenue will fully cover costs with no subsidies from the operator. Interest in operating the site has been expressed so far by GLL and Central Swindon North Parish Council.

Councillor Williams, aided by the Head of Operational Property, responded to questions put by Councillors Steve Allsopp,Emma Faramarzi, Jim Grant, Brian Mattock,Vera Tomlinson, Steve Weisinger and the Chair on the following matters:

• Any concerns or conditions that Central Swindon North Parish Council has regarding the proposal. The Committee noted that reservations are being addressed and the Parish Council already manages assets such as libraries. It is also working on the sustainability of its five-year financial model.
• The intention to offer terms for a leasehold land transfer of the whole or part of the Grounds to a third party and how one operator with responsibility for the future management and maintenance would be the best option, especially in obtaining economies of scale.
• The tight timelines involved with the proposal, particularly regarding the windows for funding applications and how British Cycling along with the Wiltshire Football Association have been working with the Council to flex deadlines and meet targets.
• That the match funding for this proposal was allocated from S106 reserves by the Cabinet decision in March 2018, and it had not been earmarked for other projects prior to this. The Committee noted that any housing built as part of this proposal may attract S106 monies in the future. 
• How the design of the changing rooms and other facilities, as well as the model of future use, will incorporate current contemporary use and will be future proofed for any changes in trends. 
• The anticipated operating hours as it is unlikely to be a 24-hour site. 
• That work will be underway on the Sports Hub prior to any housing development taking place on the site.  

Resolved – That the current progress of the project be noted.