Richmond Park TARA
From Minutes of Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods on 14th December 2009:
"The Director of Housing and Neighbourhood Services submitted the business case for the leasing of the above premises to the Richmond Park TARA. The Richmond Park Community Centre was in very poor condition and in need of significant investment. The building was integral to the adjacent garage site that was administered by Housing and Neighbourhood Services and was well used and secure. The building was formerly leased to the Richmond Park Garden Society but the lease was terminated in September, 2006, by the Society due to the lack of demand and use. The building was re-opened by Asset Management for community purposes on an hourly room hire basis but again closed due to the lack of interest.
The TARA would like the building to become a hub for the community by offering a range of activities including further education within the area and increase fitness levels. All activities would be carried out by TARA members on a voluntary basis as a non-profit marketing organisation. The management of the premises by the TARA would enable external funding sources to be exploited which were not available to the local authority. Activities would be established at a cost which would enable the TARA to raise sufficient income but remain affordable for local residents to access.
It was proposed that the Community Centre be transferred to the TARA on the basis of a Licence initially with an Agreement to Lease. This would be on the basis of an open market rent value.
Ward Members had been consulted and supported the lease of the building being granted on a subsidised rent basis.
Resolved:- (1) That the appropriation of the Richmond Park Community Centre from the Department of Asset Management to Housing and Neighbourhood Services, at a value of �30,000, be approved.
(2) That the transfer of the premises to the Richmond Park TARA on terms to be agreed, as detailed in the report, be approved. (3) That the Director of Asset Management negotiate terms with the TARA.
(4) That the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal and Democratic Services) complete the necessary documentation.
(5) That the Director of Central Finance amend the Council's financial records. "