The subject of the decision:

Further to Council approving the policy for managing community asset transfer requests between now and the intended implementation date of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on 1 April 2023, this report sought approval for the transfer of 93a Market Place, Thirsk to Thirsk Tourist Information (“Thirsk TI”).  Thirsk Tourist Information provides a range of local and regional tourist information services to visitors and residents.  It is a ‘not-for-profit’ community organisation which is run by local volunteers.  Although tourism services of this type are not directly provided by the Council, the Thirsk Tourist Information supports the Council’s priorities of driving economic development and creating vibrant market towns. 

Alternative options considered:

None.

The reason for the decision:

Cabinet was satisfied that the transfer of the property to Thirsk Tourist Information would help them plan ahead to develop its tourism services.  The transfer would give the Tourist Information greater freedom to consider more flexible and innovative ways of delivering tourism services, improve the quality of Thirsk Tourist Information and, given the ability to seek greater investment, improvement sustainability and longevity of the Tourist Information.  The transfer would also remove ongoing owner/landlord responsibilities from the Council.

The decision:

That Cabinet approves and recommends to Council that, subject to the Director of Leisure and Communities satisfying himself that the disposal would be Subsidy Control Compliant, that 93a Market Place, Thirsk is transferred into the ownership of Thirsk Tourist Information for nil consideration with appropriate restrictions as set out in paragraph 5.3 of the report together with any restrictions and covenants imposed by the Council’s predecessors.