URL: https://democracy.sheffield.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4980

Decision Maker: Charity Trustee Sub-Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: 5.1 The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services which asked for consideration of an updated assessment of bids received for the children’s rides offer at Hillsborough Park     5.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Charity Trustee Sub-Committee Committee:- (a)  Notes the contents of the report and the updated assessment following the withdrawal from the previously preferred operator’s offer; (b)  Resolves that granting a licence for a children’s rides operation is in the best interests of the Hillsborough Park Charity, considering the updated evaluation and is satisfied that the proposal supports the Charity’s objects and represents the best outcome for the Charity; and (c)  Approves the grant of a licence to the operator now identified as offering the most advantageous bid.         5.3 Reasons for Decision     5.3.1 The children’s rides facility contributes directly to the objects of the Hillsborough Park Charity by providing a recreational facility for public use, enhancing the visitor experience, and supporting the charity’s purpose of improving conditions of life for those accessing the park.     5.3.2 Income generated through the proposed licence will be retained by the charity and used to support the ongoing management and maintenance of the park. This provides a clear financial benefit to the charity and contributes to the continued delivery of facilities for public enjoyment, consistent with the charity’s objects.     5.3.3 Following the originally preferred operator’s withdrawn offer, officers have reassessed all bids. The operator now recommended is considered to provide the most advantageous proposal when evaluated against the agreed criteria and the best interests of the charity. Their offer represents the best value available and based on officers’ knowledge of the operator and their payment history, there are no concerns over their ability to meet the level of fees proposed or the terms of the licence.     5.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     5.4.1 Alternative Option 1 – Do nothing: Reason for rejection- there is the option to not offer a licence to any of the operators who have bid. This would mean there would be no provision for this type of offer within the park and would impact on the rental income for the charity which contributes directly to the management and maintenance of the park. This would have a detrimental impact on the quality of the visitor experience. This option has therefore been rejected.            

Date of Decision: April 8, 2026