Decision

To proceed with the demolition of the clubhouse and associated buildings at Maidenhead Golf Course.

Reasons for the decision

Demolition of the existing clubhouse is a necessary requirement to progress redevelopment of the site in the short term, but it also removes a number of liabilities and risks to the Council. These include the ongoing costs for maintenance, utilities and business rates, continued security measures and associated cost, the significant health and safety risks if the building is retained in terms of possible break-ins, damage or risk of accident.

Alternative options considered

An alternative option to retain the building for 'meanwhile use' has been carefully considered. However, the financial and operational risks to the council are significant and it is not possible to fully mitigate any potential liability. The duty of care and accountability for health and safety liability falls to the responsible senior officers who can be held personally liable for potential breaches. Therefore this option has been discounted as it would not support the primary objective for the asset and best manage the potential risks to the council, particularly given the short-term nature of any form of meanwhile use that can be offered.