Issue - decisions
Charnwood House, Hitchin
23/09/2026 - CHARNWOOD HOUSE, HITCHIN
RESOLVED: That Cabinet:
(1) Approved the basis and process for assessing and scoring applications from suitable interested parties (or groups).
(2) Delegated authority to the Executive Member for Enterprise in consultation with the Director of Enterprise, to finalise the terms for the lease and to complete any other documentation required to give effect to the decision.
(3) Approved grant of a long lease of Charnwood House, including a restriction to community use, and delegates to the Director of Enterprise in consultation officers in Estates and Legal Services to consider rental at a value less than best consideration where it can be shown that the disposal will promote and improve social well-being pursuant to the Local Government Act 1972: General Disposal Consent 2003.
REASONS FOR DECISIONS:
(1) The Council has a policy for Charnwood House to be brought back into use to support community-based activities, recognising the potential value of the asset to local and regional groups and the wider town centre.
(2) The Council Plan 2024-2028 identifies Thriving Communities as one of the Council’s priorities which includes looking for opportunities to develop community hubs that provide public spaces and support for communities.
(3) This recommendation sets out how the successful applicant will be selected to enable the Council to progress granting a lease of Charnwood House and deliver the policy for the property.