Further to minute 183 (14 October 2010), which approved the transfer of Heswall Hall in accordance with the council’s Community Asset Transfer Policy, the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management reported that, in developing their business plan, the Heswall Halls Steering Group had not had the opportunity to fully explore the requirements for improvement works to the stage and theatre elements of the building. He advised Members of the requirements that had been identified by the Heswall Hall Community Trust (HHCT) for improvements to secure a sustainable transfer of Heswall Hall and he sought approval to the means of funding those works.

He reported that the transfer would promote a number of the Council’s Corporate Policies including: Increased enterprise and promotion of greater independence and choice. There would be a saving in the Council’s budget as a consequence of the transfer, which was not a statutory duty.

Resolved –

(1)  That the theatre improvement works and the installation of moveable acoustic walls be funded from the Council’s budget and recouped from the share of the proceeds of the sale of Alexander Hall, which will be available to the HHCT.

(2)  That following the expiration of the proposed lease of Alexander Hall, the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management be instructed to arrange for its disposal, with the sale proceeds to be dealt with in the manner set out in the report of the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management.