URL: https://democracy.bathnes.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2307

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Bath & North East Somerset Council is implementing an Estate Rationalisation project to improve service efficiency, reduce property costs, and support its capital investment programme. A key part of this initiative is the proposed sale of Lewis House, which will generate capital receipts and save the Council in running costs. To enable the disposal, Council services currently based at Lewis House will be relocated to refurbished facilities at the Guildhall, Parkside, and Pixash. The project includes a £2.69m investment to upgrade these sites, with sustainability improvements at Parkside supporting the Council’s 2030 Decarbonisation targets. This rationalisation supports the Council’s long-term goals of financial sustainability, improved service delivery, and environmental responsibility.

Content: (1)  To approve the relocation of operational services currently based at Lewis House. The Housing Welfare and Advice Service (HWAS), Safeguarding/Case Conferences, and Youth Justice will move to the Guild Area of the Guildhall. The Mail Room, CCTV, Emergency Planning, and Environmental Protection/Safety Standards will relocate to Parkside. Taxi Licensing will be transferred to Pixash.   (2)  To approve an increase in the Asset Rationalisation capital programme from £60k to £2.69m. This funding will support refurbishment works at both the Guildhall and Parkside and includes a £140k repayment to the Project Initiation Fund as well as a £50k transfer from the Security Surveillance Hub Plan budget. The decision to relocate services from Lewis House and increase the Asset Rationalisation capital programme is driven by the Council’s strategic goal to improve operational efficiency, reduce property- related costs, and support long-term financial sustainability. An alternative option considered was to take no action. However, this would not address the ongoing need for suitable office accommodation. It would also hinder efforts to reduce the costs associated with operating the Council’s corporate properties and would delay the disposal of assets required to support the capital programme.

Date of Decision: October 1, 2025