Decision details

The Executive considered a report seeking approval of the Towns Fund Business Case in respect of the Stevenage Sport and Leisure Hub Project.

The Executive supported the proposed Business Case.  The following comments were made by Members:

·        in response to a question about mitigation against possible cost increases due to inflation, the Strategic Director (CF) advised that such mitigation could either require the use of additional funding and/or value-engineering the project to meet the allocated budget;

·        in order to attract a higher and broader level of participation, it was important that the features of the new Sport and Leisure hub facility were more extensive and up to date than those within the existing leisure facilities;

·        the project would provide opportunities for individuals wishing to pursue a career in the leisure industry, as well as providing high quality facilities for those participating (at all levels) in a wide variety of sporting and leisure pursuits.

It was RESOLVED:

1.          That the endorsement of the project from the Stevenage Development Board be noted.

2.          That the business case for the Sport and Leisure Hub project be approved, and that authority be delegated to the Strategic Director (TP) to submit the project summary to the Department for Levelling Up, Communities and Housing Towns Fund team on behalf of the Council (acting as Accountable Body).

3.          That the development of a detailed project delivery plan, including detailed funding plan and continued engagement with key stakeholders, be endorsed.

Reason for Decision:  As contained in report.

Other Options considered:  As contained in report.