Council and Democracy

Decision details

Stephenson Memorial Hall - Stage 2

Decision Maker: Cabinet, Council

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: Yes

Is subject to call in?: No

Decisions:

The Arts and Venues Manager submitted a report detailing the progress  made in the development of renovation and refurbishment proposals for the Stephenson Memorial Hall.

 

The aims were to create an integrated cultural venue in the town centre and extend the life of one of Chesterfield’s most important heritage assets.

 

The project would be largely funded through the Government’s Levelling Up Fund following the success of the council’s submission. The council had received £19.98m to support this project and a series of public realm improvements across the town centre.

 

The council would need to match the funding received with a further allocation of funds to be met through prudential borrowing.

 

*RESOLVED –

 

1.    That it be recommend to Council that:

 

a)   the renovation and refurbishment project for the Stephenson Memorial Hall in Chesterfield be approved and that the scheme be added to the Council’s capital programme.

 

b)   the funding of the capital works through a combination of funding secured through the Levelling Up Fund and prudential borrowing be authorised.

 

2.    That the Theatre Restoration Levy increase to £2 per ticket for all theatre productions from when the refurbished building reopens be approved.

 

3.    That, as set out in the addendum to the report, a further stage report be presented to Cabinet following the receipt of tenders for the appointment of the main construction partner.

 

4.    That delegated authority be granted to the Service Director - Leisure, Culture and Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, the Service Director for Finance and the Service Director for Economic Growth, to confirm the award of tender for the procurement of the design team, and the award of sequential tenders for the procurement of the enabling works, construction and fit out.

 

REASONS FOR DECISIONS

 

1.    To ensure that the Stephenson Memorial Hall is restored and refurbished so that it can be enjoyed by the residents and visitors of Chesterfield for many years to come.

 

2.    To create a landmark building which makes a statement about civic pride, and renews an important heritage asset.

 

3.    To develop and improve the cultural services offered in the Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum so that they are able to attract increased numbers of visitors, and therefore have a sustainable future.

 

Reason Key: Decision to spend £100,000 or more from an approved budget;

Wards Affected: St. Leonard's;

Contact: Anthony Radford Email: anthony.radford@chesterfield.gov.uk Tel: 01246 345339.

Report author: Anthony Radford

Publication date: 14/12/2021

Date of decision: 14/12/2021

Decided at meeting: 14/12/2021 - Cabinet

Accompanying Documents: