Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Director of Resources, (copy enclosed).

The Council considered the report of the Director of Resources updating Members on progress made with the Commercial Options for Princes Road project, following approval to commence with a feasibility review.  Appendix 1 to the report provided further detailed information in relation to the project, feasibility review along with Officers conclusions and recommendations.

Members were reminded of the three workstreams identified and Officers’ conclusions drawn from work completed so far.  Detailed analysis of the three chosen sites (set out in the appendices to the report) would be undertaken to assist Members in making an informed decision.  It was noted that at its September 2023 meeting the Council will consider whether the project can progress to Business Case and at this point one site will need to be chosen. 

The Leader of the Council presented the report and moved the recommendations set out within it.  These were duly seconded.

A lengthy debate ensued.  Members commented on the sites considered and in particular the three to be progressed.  In response to questions and comments Officers provided Members with further information regarding the project. 

Councillor W Stamp proposed an amendment to the proposal that site 3 (as identified in Appendix 1 to the report) not be included as one of the sites the Council focuses on and that the current Council offices be included with the other two sites identified.  This proposal was duly seconded.  The Leader of the Council advised that she did not agree with the amendment.

The Chairman moved the proposed amendment and upon a vote being taken it was agreed.  The Chairman then moved the substantive motion and upon a vote being taken this was agreed.

RESOLVED

(i)                That Officers proceed with the remainder of the Feasibility Review in relation to the Commercial Options for Princes Road project, with a focus on Sites 1 and 5 (as outlined in Appendix 1 to the report) and the current Council offices site at Princes Road;

(ii)              That the significant dependency this project has on decisions made regarding the Customer Strategy and the co-location with Council partners as the Council seeks to invest in a long-term commercially viable solution for its offices, be noted.