Purpose

As part of the Council’s contribution to
commemorating Mayflower 400, an agreement to rent the house of the
Mayflower Captain (Christopher Jones) was agreed with the owner.
This was originally due to last until the end of 2020, but due to
the global pandemic was extended until the end of 2022. In January
2024, the Harwich Society contacted the Council and requested that
the agreement be extended to 31st October 2024.
Further decisions published on 24th October 2024, 13th November
2024, 23th December 2024, 28th January 2025, 28th February 2025,
25th March 2025 25th April 2025, 23rd May 2025, 30th June 2025
enabling the extension to last until at least 31 March 2026.
The current tenants were due to take over the lease of the house
from 1st January 2025 and agreed to pay the rent to Tendring
District Council for the period 1st January 2025 – 31st March
2026. Due to a delay in governance around the agreement, Tendring
District Council agreed to pay the rent up front, with the current
tenants repaying the amount when the agreement has been confirmed.
This decision allows the Council to enter into the licence
agreement, so the backdated rent can be paid.

Content

To enter into a licence agreement with the
Harwich Society, to occupy the house of Christopher Jones from 1
January 2025 until 31 March 2026. This will allow the Council to
invoice the Harwich Society, for the cost of occupying the house
for the same period which has been paid up front at a value of
£1,250 per month.

Alternative options considered

This was a time limited arrangement which will
end far in advance of the transition to LGR. It has been agreed
that the Harwich Society will reimburse Tendring District Council
for the total cost covered from 1st January 2025. Place and Economy
Officers have worked with colleagues to finalise the governance and
legal requirements for the licence agreement.