The Property Sub-Committee convened to discuss and approve several property-related matters. Councillors approved a 125-year academy lease for Burleyfields Primary School, leases to academies including St. Bernadette School, and the renewal of a lease agreement on Unit QA Beacon Business Park. They also agreed to exclude the public from the meeting for the following items of business.

Burleyfields Primary School Lease

Councillors approved the recommendation to grant an agreement for a 125-year lease to the Creative Learning Partnership Trust following the construction of a primary school at Burleyfields Primary School. The final details of the transaction will be delegated to the Assistant Directorate of Commercial and Assets.

Leases to Academies

The committee approved the lease of sites to academies, including St Bernadette's School, as set out in the schedule. Councillor Lodge, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, explained that the sites are owned by Staffordshire County Council and used by the schools detailed in the schedule. The proposals are to separate a 125-year lease of the site. These leases will be granted as a peppercorn rent¹ and are therefore not for value. It's a standard form of lease in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Education. Councillor Lodge clarified that while there are no statutory obligations to enter into the lease, it is the Department of Education's expectation that a lease of the sites will be granted to allow the Academy to run from the sites, and that the consent of the Secretary of State has been obtained before any lease is completed.

Unit QA Beacon Business Park Lease

The committee approved entering into a 10-year lease of Unit QA, Beacon Business Park, Western Road, Stafford, ST18OWL, for a reduced floor area at a revised rent.