Decision details

1.         That the purchase of a retail unit in Russell Square, Horley for the purchase price, as stated in the ‘Part 2’ report (item 20) on a 998 year long lease (a ‘virtual freehold’) from Reigate and Banstead Borough Council (RBBC), as premises for a modern library for Horley be approved.

2.         That authority be delegated to the Chief Property Officer, in consultation with the Director of Finance, the Director of Legal, Democratic and Cultural Services, the Cabinet Member for Localities and Community Wellbeing and the Cabinet Member for Business Services and Resident Experience to award a contract for the refurbishment and fit out of the new library, subject to formal tender, at a cost not to exceed that stated in the ‘Part 2’ report (item 20). 

Reasons for Decisions:

To stimulate and maintain high levels of library use in Horley. The existing Horley library building is no longer in the centre of the town, does not provide a suitable environment for a modern library service and incurs high maintenance and running costs. Acquiring a recently constructed retail unit in Russell Square will provide premises fit for a modern library where a growing community will benefit from the more convenient location and a comprehensive range of services available to local residents.

[The decision on this item may be called in by either the Resident Experience Scrutiny Board or the Council Overview Board]