Decision details

Grant of 21 year lease to Forest Row Sports Ground Association to allow continuance of use of sports ground land for team games, tennis etc and to allow continued use of Memorial Pavilion building.

31.1     The Lead Member considered a report by the Chief Operating Officer.

DECISIONS

31.2     The Lead Member RESOLVED to:

(1) Review and consider the surveyor`s report (Appendix 1 of the report) made under section 119 of the Charities Act 2011 in relation to the proposed lease as trustee of the Ashdown Forest Trust (the Charity).

(2) Approve the granting of a 21-year lease to Forest Row Sports Ground Association for land forming part of Ashdown Forest on the basis that, having considered the Surveyors Report, the Council is satisfied that the terms of the proposed lease are the best that can reasonably be made for the Charity.

(3) Delegate authority to the Chief Operating Officer to determine the detailed terms of the lease and take any other actions considered appropriate to give effect to the decision.

REASONS

31.3     The current occupancy agreements between The Forest Row Sports Ground Association (the Association), Forest Row Parish Council and the Conservators of Ashdown Forest which expire in January 2023 need to be revised. They currently prevent the Association from improving and investing in the facilities. The Conservators support the continued provision of sports facilities by the Association.

31.4     The lease will be at a peppercorn rental and subject to restrictions imposed by the Ashdown Forest Act and subject to the Association continuing to pursue charitable objectives. The Parish Council have agreed that there is no requirement for their continued involvement in the site and have no objection to the granting of a lease direct to the Association.

31.5     The Association is a registered charity; its objectives are the provision of facilities for recreation and leisure time for the benefit of inhabitants of Forest Row and surrounding areas.

31.6     The County Council, on behalf of the Trust, advertised in a local newspaper, the Sussex Express, seeking any comments on the proposed letting. The closing date was 8 August 2022 and no comments were received.