Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: December 10, 2025

Purpose: The report seeks approval to progress the project to the end of RIBA 4 and the funding required to do so.

Content: RESOLVED that Cabinet:   (i)            Note the progress made since the last update to Cabinet in April 2025 when the project reached a key gateway, completion of RIBA Stage 2 (Concept Design) including appointment of a main contractor for the next stage of design and issue of the latest cost plan;   (ii)          Note the latest cost estimates for the scheme as outlined in Section 3.1 (Financial & Risk) and the key drivers for the increase;   (iii)         Approve the allocation of an additional £3.160m in funding from the Council’s Capital Programme to support the completion of RIBA Stages 3 (Spatial Coordination) and 4 (Technical Design), associated works and costs outlined in Section 3; and   (iv)         Note that a report is to be brought back to Cabinet at the end of RIBA Stage 3, to present detail of the developed design and robust cost plan.