Issue - meetings

The Board received a report from the Strategic Director – Enterprise, Community and Resources, which sought approval to the granting of a lease to Widnes FC Ltd, for the Recreation Club building on Dundalk Road and King George V playing fields.

The report outlined the background and history of the Club in recent years and Members were referred to the plan of the site attached to the report. 

The Council invited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to lease the Recreation Club building and King George V playing fields, subject to them being retained for social, sports and recreational use.  Following a site visit made by interested parties, only Widnes FC Ltd expressed an interest to continue with discussions and went on to present a proposal to the Council. 

It was noted that the proposal would require significant investment and resources to deliver and the report laid out the Council’s position and steps required to be taken should the granting of a lease to Widnes FC Ltd be approved.

RESOLVED:  That

1)    the Council enter into a lease agreement with Widnes FC Ltd;

2)    the Council bring forward the site for sporting development, subject to planning permission; and

3)    the Board delegates responsibility for oversight of the development and lease to the Operational Director – Economy, Enterprise and Property and the Operational Director – Communities and Environment, in consultation with the Portfolio Holders for Physical Environment and Community and Sport.