Decision
Analysis
outcome: Cabinet approved the release of funds from the Enterprise Zone Business Rates Growth Reserve for the development of the Training Centre and awarded a grant to Addison Academy.
summary: The decision involves approving funds for the development of a Training Centre at Hillhouse Technology Enterprise Zone and awarding a grant to Addison Academy.
topline: The Cabinet has decided to approve funds for a Training Centre at Hillhouse Technology Enterprise Zone and award a grant to Addison Academy.
reason_contentious: The issue may be contentious as it involves the allocation of public funds and may impact local stakeholders.
affected_stakeholders: ["Residents", "Organizations", "Addison Academy"]
contentiousness_score: 5
political_party_relevance: There are no mentions or implications of political parties or political influence on the decision.
URL: https://wyre.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=819
Decision Maker: Cabinet
Outcome:
Is Key Decision?: Yes
Is Callable In?: Yes
Purpose: To approve the release of funding from the Enterprise Zone Business Rates Growth Reserve for the development of proposals for a Training Centre at Hillhouse Technology Enterprise Zone (EZ).
Content: Councillor Peter Le Marinel, Planning Policy and Economic Development Portfolio Holder, Councillor Lesley McKay, Resources Portfolio Holder and Sarah Palmer, Director of Transformation and Change submitted a report to approve the release of fund from the Enterprise Zone Business Rates Growth Reserve for the development of proposals for a Training Centre at Hillhouse Technology Enterprise Zone (EZ) and to approve award of grant to Addison Academy. Councillor McKay introduced the item. She highlighted the ongoing skills shortages and emphasised the importance of ensuring that residents have the best possible opportunities. Councillor Le Marinel highlighted the growing difficulty organisations face as they compete for the same staff, which was pushing costs higher. He confirmed that delivering Addison Academy as soon as possible was the most effective idea. Decision Cabinet agreed: That approval is given to contribute up to £40,000 from the Enterprise Zone Business Rates Growth Reserve for fees to develop proposals for a Training Centre as outlined at Section 4.5. That the revenue budget be apportioned as £40,000 in 2026/27. That authorisation is given to the Director of Transformation and Change in consultation with the S.151 Officer to enter into a grant funding agreement with Addison Academy (or a company related to the proposed project) so that they can commission independent professional services to develop proposals for a Training Centre with an estimated total value of up to £40,000.
Date of Decision: June 3, 2026