Decision details

Prior to the item being discussed Councillor Bernard Lovewell declared a declarable interest in that he was a Member of the Cabinet Sub-Committee (Council Charities) and, in accordance with legal advice given previously, would leave the Chamber for the duration of the item.

Prior to the item being discussed Councillor Julian Cunningham declared a declarable interest in that he was a Member of the Cabinet Sub-Committee (Council Charities) and, in accordance with legal advice given previously, would leave the Chamber for the duration of the item.

Prior to the item being discussed Councillor Michael Weeks declared a declarable interest in that he was a Member of the Cabinet Sub-Committee (Council Charities) and, in accordance with legal advice given previously, would leave the Chamber for the duration of the item.

RESOLVED:

(1)       That the purchase of 14/15 Brand Street for £550,000 be approved;

(2)       That the Council should enter into the Settlement Agreement at Appendix A;

(3)       That the timeline for the full opening of the North Hertfordshire Museum be noted.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

(1)       To enable the Council to complete the development of the North Hertfordshire Museum/Hitchin Town Hall project as intended by Council and operate the facility for the benefit of the local community;

(2)       To protect the Council’s interests and obtain best return from the Council’s existing investment and to secure projected income from the facility to offset some of the operational and fixed costs.