Issue - meetings

The report outlined the proposal to carry out refurbishment works to the Newington Community Centre. Survey work for the Ramsgate Levelling Up project had identified works which were required. These works would improve energy efficiency of the building, also leading to lower operational costs for the centre in the long term.

Councillor Everitt proposed, Councillor Albon seconded and Cabinet agreed to:

“1) Approve a new project for Newington Community Centre as part of the HRA capital programme.

2) Approve that the refurbishment works to the Newington Community Centre be delivered with the Levelling Up Fund project at the Centre.”

Louise Askew, Head of Regeneration and Growth, introduced the report and made the following points:

·  Cabinet would be receiving this report at the next Cabinet meeting;

·  The project outlined refurbishment works for the Newington Community Centre;

·  Survey works for the building identified works required through the Levelling-Up Fund;

·  These works were targeted to upgrade the energy efficiency of the building itself as well as lower operational costs long term;

·  Accessibility to the building would be greatly improved;

·  The goal of the work was to provide locals with training opportunities through a range of regeneration programs;

·  £300,000 would be requested from the HRA Capital Budget from the Major Repairs Reserve;

·  Further permissions were being sought after for the required works for the building as it would be considered a key decision.

Councillors commented and asked the following questions:

·  Councillors generally supported this proposal;

·  It was asked if the funds had to be taken from the HRA Capital Budget or could they be taken from an alternative source. Officers explained that the funds coming from the HRA Budget were for the upkeep of Council owned buildings in the portfolio, however The Council has applied for sustainability funding through the Community Association, this was earmarked for sustainability elements within in the property;

·  Councillors wanted to know what facilities the Council currently provided that gave the same services. Officers informed the Councillors that there were plans to add an extension including kitchens, which provided training as well as individual office spaces for one-to-one assistance;

·  Councillors then asked who would be working with the Council to provide the services. Officers replied to say that the services would be provided by the Newington Community Association in partnership with the Starlight Trust.

Councillors agreed to note the report.