Purpose

The report
provided an update on the RIBA Stage 2 design study work that
provided a long term strategy for the full restoration of the Grade
II listed Ashton Town Hall 2030.  Approval was sought to hold
a public engagement exercise in Ashton to Capture feedback and
comments on the proposed approach to the restoration of Asthon Town
Hall.

Content

RESOLVED

(i)                
Approval be given
for the Ashton Town Hall RIBA Stage 2 design study (Appendix 1) as
the long-term strategy for full restoration of the building by
2030.

(ii)              
Approval for a
maximum budget of £1.000m be drawn down from the
Council’s Capital Programme in 2026/27 to support preparation
of a planning and listed building consent application, associated
surveys and technical works.

(iii)            
To provide
approval to progress detailed proposals for the full restoration of
Ashton Town Hall, including delegating decision making authority
for detailed design, necessary public consultation and related
procurement, to the Strategic Growth Director, in consultation with
the Strategic Director of Housing, Environment & Estates, the
S.151 Officer, and Monitoring Officer as appropriate.

(iv)            
To Note that a
further report will be brought to Executive Cabinet on completion
of detailed design works to seek any required approval for delivery
and contractor procurement.

(v)              
Following
completion of the RIBA Stage 2 design study, approval be given for
a public engagement exercise in Ashton to capture feedback and
comments on the proposed approach to the restoration of Ashton Town
Hall, including the provision of a new accessible entrance and
extension to the rear of the existing building