Agenda and minutes

The minutes of a previous meeting held on 28^th February, 2006 were agreed as a correct record.

Resolved:-  That, under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the press and public be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in those paragraphs indicated below of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972.

In accordance with Minute No. 129 of a meeting of the Cabinet Member, Lifelong Learning, Culture and Leisure held on 22^nd November 2005, consideration was given to a report of the Young People’s Services Manager which contained details of the final outcome, and confirmed costs of the Partnering negotiations, in respect of a contract to refurbish and extend Longdendale Outdoor Education Centre.

Work started on 14^th February, 2006 with a completion date during mid October, 2006.

The scheme involved refurbishment of the existing two storey house, demolition and rebuild of the boiler house, remedial works to the existing equipment store and construction of a new two storey extension, and all associated works.

In addition, the report gave an update on progress around the development of the management partnership with the Youth Hostel Association, together with the anticipated current spending profile.

A draft contract will be agreed by July 2006 in readiness for agreement by August 2006.

The new outdoor education centre will provide a facility for outdoor educational needs and pursuits which will benefit all Rotherham schools.  A publicity exercise was to take place at an appropriate stage of the project.

Once the work had been completed and bookings re-commenced, and in response to a request from the Manager, it was noted that the name of the facility would revert to its old name of Crowden.

Resolved:- (1)  That the final tender costs be noted.

(2)         That the progress in developing the management partnership with the Youth Hostel Association be noted.

(3)  That a further progress report be submitted to a future meeting.

(Exempt under Paragraph 3 of the Act – information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person [including the Council])

Consideration was given to a report of the Head of Culture and Leisure which outlined the annual review of fees and charges for 2006/07.

The proposed charges are with effect from 27^th March, 2006 (25^th March, 2006, for Country Parks and 1^st September, 2006 for Civic Theatre).

In the main, and whilst there are several exceptions, increases range from 0% to 5%.

It was noted that several core services still remain free of charge, e.g. public library service, museum service, archives and local studies service and casual access to green spaces and children’s play areas.  Where there is a charge there is often a concessionary rate and, particularly related to leisure activities, a junior rothercard rate.  Concessionary customers are not restricted to access at off-peak times as is the case in many other local authorities.

A new concessionary use policy has been adopted for the hire of Culture and Leisure premises by local organisations.  As from April 2006 eligibility for concessionary hire will be determined by whether the activity helps deliver one or more corporate (and hence Culture and Leisure) priorities.

Resolved:-  That, with the exception of specific amendments, as discussed, the fees and charges, as set out in Appendix A now submitted, be approved.

(Exempt under Paragraph 3 of the Act – information relating to expenditure and recipients of service provided by the Authority).