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