Decision
URL: https://democracy.sheffield.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4982
Decision Maker:
Outcome: Recommendations Approved
Is Key Decision?: No
Is Callable In?: No
Purpose:
Content: 7.1 The Committee considered a report of General Counsel, which sought approval for the Trustee’s proposed response to correspondence received from the Charity Commission in relation to matters concerning the Norton Nurseries site, which forms part of the Graves Park Charity. 7.2 RESOLVED: That the Charity Trustees Sub- Committee:- (a) Has considered the contents of the report, alongside the letter from the Charity Commission dated 27th June 2024 attached to the report, regarding Graves Park; (b) Approves the draft response to the Charity Commission which is set out in the appendix; and (c) Notes that officers will send a letter (by email) in the form approved by this Sub Committee to the Charity Commission, within 3 working days of the decision. (NOTE: The result of the vote on the resolution was FOR - 3 Members; AGAINST - 1 Member; ABSTENTIONS – 0 Members. Councillor Douglas Johnson requested that his vote against the recommendation be recorded). 7.3 Reasons for Decision 7.3.1 Responding to the Charity Commission maintains the ongoing relationship with the Charity Commission which is essential to ensure that whatever plans the Trustee settles on for the various matters in Graves Park and the wider charitable interests are implemented lawfully. 7.3.2 To maintain good governance, it is important for the Graves Park Charity Trustees to approve any significant correspondence with the Charity Commission. 7.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected 7.4.1 Option 1: Do nothing (do not respond to the Charity Commission). In the event that the Trustee ceases to engage with the CC this may be construed as a breach of the Trustee’s duties that could ultimately lead to the CC instigating a Statutory Inquiry and cause reputational damage to the charity. This option has therefore been discounted.
Date of Decision: April 8, 2026