Decision Maker: Charity Trustee Sub-Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: July 23, 2025

Purpose:

Content: 6.1 The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services which sought approval to extend the existing children’s rides licence in Endcliffe Park which expired on 30 April 2025, until 30 November 2026, and to initiate procurement processes for a children’s ride offer on the existing pitch at Endcliffe Park during this licence period.     6.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Charity Trustees Sub-Committee: -   a)    Approves the extension of the current licence for children’s rides offer in Endcliffe Park until 30 November 2026;   b)    Approves the commencement of a procurement process?for a children’s rides operator from 1 December 2026 in Endcliffe Park within this licence period; and   c)    Notes?that a further report will be brought to this Committee following the procurement process, seeking approval to enter into new licence agreements with the recommended operator(s), effective from?1 December 2026.         6.3 Reasons for Decision     6.3.1 The provision of children’s rides in Endcliffe Park contributes to the objects of the charity, providing amenities within recreation / pleasure grounds for use by the public. It has also become an expected part of visitors’ park experience. Generating an income allows the council as sole trustee to support the management and maintenance of the park and in turn contribute to the charity objects.         6.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected         6.4.1 Option 1: Do nothing There is the option to not extend the licence for inflatables in the park. This would mean there would be no provision for this type of offer within the park from the start of the school holidays when use of the park will increase and residents can reasonably expect such a provision given the charitable objects of the park. If the licence for children’s rides and inflatables in Endcliffe Park were not granted, the charity would lose a secure and predictable source of income that contributes to the park’s maintenance and public offer. This could increase reliance on less consistent funding sources such as Council support. The absence of these attractions may also reduce the park’s appeal to families, limiting the charity’s ability to deliver public benefit in line with its objectives. Additionally, not renewing the licence could disrupt established operational arrangements and affect the charity’s reputation for effective asset management.     6.4.2 Option 2 – go to the market with this opportunity There is the option to not extend the licence and to go straight out to the market with this opportunity. This would allow the Charity to ensure it is getting best value from the offer. However, the removal of the existing offer would mean there would be no provision for this type of offer within the park from the start of the school holidays when use of the park will increase and residents can reasonably expect such a provision given the charitable objects of the park. The removal of this offer would immediately impact on the rental income for the charity.