Decision details

The proposal is to lease the current Library building to Radstock Town Council. This forms part of the Modern Libraries programme.

The Cabinet Members agree to:

·  Delegate to the Head of Estates to complete the disposal of the Radstock Library premises into a final lease with Radstock Town Council in line with the draft Heads of Terms attached, subject to financial review.

·  Abate the rent to a peppercorn subject to the Radstock Town Council satisfying the Council that they will use the premises for the purposes set out in their draft Business Plan. 

The proposal has been agreed as it enables the Council to implement its policy for Community run libraries and enables the Modern Libraries Programme to achieve its overall savings targets.

The Council has committed to delivering three Core Libraries (Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton) and by working more closely with local community it can continue to deliver a comprehensive library offer which is tailored to the local community’s needs.

Radstock Town Council will create a ‘Community Hub’, primarily a library use and other activities including: continued access to children’s services, access to advice and information services such as CAB, PCSOs, Big Local, Tourist Information etc and a meeting space for community groups.

This option has been chosen as it supports the Council to implement its Modern Libraries Programme and achieve the overall savings target.  It provides the community with a valuable resource and helps to maintain a valued library service.

This is the only proposal that has been received for this location and it meets the criteria set out for Community Run Libraries.