URL: https://modgov.hillingdon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=3352

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED:   That Cabinet:   1)    Agree to cease retail-side operations based at the Rural Activities Garden Centre in West Drayton on or before 31 July 2025, noting its continued loss-making commercial position and the public subsidy required.   2)    Agree further consultation on the future of the services at the RAGC site for those in receipt of assessed social care services with a commitment to ensure identified needs continue to be met, along with further consultation with those who attend the RAGC as volunteers and on proposals to:   a)    Relocate those with assessed care needs to the Civic Centre Campus in Uxbridge to provide enhanced horticultural services and development opportunities.   b)   Support voluntary service users to move to partner organisations within the local area offering a more diverse range of activities including horticulture and biodiversity, and opportunities for paid employment positions should they desire to do so. The Council would provide training and assistance where required.    c)    Consider no change in the location of voluntary and support services for those with assessed social care needs.   3)    Note the initial engagement that has taken place with those with assessed social care needs and volunteers, with regard to the proposal and duly considers the petitions and views received during the petition hearing held on 11 June 2025, as set out in the report.   4)    Note that staff consultation has commenced as part of the proposal in relation to the closure of the retail-side of the Centre.   5)    Note that there will be further consultation and engagement with regard to the proposals using independent advocacy, where appropriate.   6)    Subject to the conclusion of the above and taking into account consultations and the Equalities Impact Assessment, delegate authority to the Cabinet Member for Community & Environment, to make a decision on the future of the RAGC site and relocation of service provision accordingly.   Reasons for decisions   The Deputy Leader of the Council introduced the report concerning the proposed closure of the retail operations at the Rural Activities Garden Centre. The Deputy Leader clarified that the decision was limited to the retail aspect and not the broader social care services provided at the site. A minor correction was noted in the report, changing the term “volunteers” to “gardeneers” in a paragraph.   The Deputy Leader explained that the retail operations had been financially unsustainable, particularly following the impact of COVID-19. Despite efforts to revive the Centre, it had not recovered, prompting the proposal to close the retail side. The Deputy Leader explained that this move was consistent with other Council actions to eliminate subsidies in loss-making services, such as theatres and golf courses, which had since improved under new operators.   The Deputy Leader reassured attendees that the social care services at Centre would undergo a review and consultation on them. The Council intended to consult with users and explore alternative provisions that could offer enhanced support. All current gardeneers, including those not currently receiving social care, would be offered assessments if they wished.   The Deputy Leader also addressed public concern, acknowledging petitions and campaign letters, and clarified that the Council had no plans to sell the site at the current time. Therefore, it was made clear that the issue of designating it as an Asset of Community Value was currently not a relevant consideration at this time.   The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care addressed the meeting to provide a social care viewpoint. The Cabinet Member acknowledged the strong community interest and explained the Council’s commitment to person-centred care. The Cabinet Member stated that the proposed changes aimed to improve services by relocating support to the Civic Centre campus in Uxbridge, offering a broader range of activities such as gardening, handiwork, and adult education.   The Cabinet Member assured that all individuals with assessed needs would be supported and that social workers were actively engaging with service users and families to ensure any smooth transitions. It was also noted that the Council was also working with the voluntary sector to provide opportunities for those without formal care packages as part of the proposal.   The Deputy Leader then read out the report’s recommendations, which the Cabinet duly considered and then agreed.   Cabinet then agreed a short adjournment of the meeting.   Alternative options considered and rejected   Cabinet could have decided to make no changes to the Centre and to continue to operate as at present but considered this would not be a financially sustainable option.   Relevant Select Committee Residents’ Services & Health & Social Care Expiry date for any scrutiny call-in / date decision can be implemented (if no call-in) Cabinet’s decisions on this matter can be called in by a majority of either select committee individually by 5pm, Friday 4 July 2025. If not called-in by then, Cabinet’s decisions can then be implemented. Officer(s) to action Karrie Whelan / Steve Brown Directorate Place Classification Public - The report and any background papers relating to this decision by the Cabinet are available to view on the Council's website or by visiting the Civic Centre, Uxbridge.  

Date of Decision: June 26, 2025