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In line with the Constitution at Part 7 -
Section 2 as set out below:
2.2.6. To accept surrenders or variations of leases and tenancies
of land or buildings or any rights, including the release of
covenants, where such would not be detrimental to the
council’s interest and where the capital value or the rent
per annum does not exceed £50,000 subject to prior
consultation with the Group Head with responsibility for the
current use and intended use of the property and the S151 Officer
or in accordance with the council’s adopted Acquisitions and
Disposal Policy.

2.2.7. In respect of paragraphs 2.2.2 to 2.2.6 above, to negotiate
any of the matters therein referred to.

Decision: To authorise the forfeiture of the existing
‘legacy’ lease on the grounds of non-payment of rent.
This would be actioned via peaceable re-entry.

Reasons for the decision

This decision is in accordance with our
policy, as documented within ADC Asset Management Strategy.

The site is vacant and unoccupied following the completion of the
new Keystone Centre. The existing ‘legacy’ lease on the
former Keystone Centre remains in place as it has not been
surrendered or forfeited.

Increasing pressure to provide alternative operational premises for
ADC own use gives rise to an immediate need to free up this
site.

By forfeiting the lease and taking possession back provides the
Council with immediate control over the site, with greater
flexibility and opportunity to resolve immediate operational need
as well as preparing the site for future redevelopment
considerations.

The site will require some initial capital expenditure to ensure it
is compliant, however, this will be relatively modest as any
operational need is for storage only. The intention will be to
drain down the building and cap the services, so there will be no
useable services or facilities within the building.

Alternative options considered

Leave the lease in place.

This option has been rejected as the site is a long term housing
site, whilst being able to be used for operational need in the
short term.