URL: https://democracy.darlington.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2041

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: The Cabinet Member with the Resources Portfolio introduce the report (previously circulated) of the Executive Director of Economy and Public Protection to seek approval to take a lease of Unit 3C & 3D Enterprise House, in Darlington for the purpose of providing a location for the Darlington Employability Hub and Council employability programmes.   It was proposed that Enterprise House will be the location for the Darlington Employment Hub and DBC employability programmes to enable all services to operate for a single central, accessible location as shown in the plan. It stated as part of the delivery of the Get Britain Working White Paper, the department for work and pensions funds the employability programmes and has pressed for the establishment of an Employability Hub in Darlington.   The report explained how the current premises at Bennet House basement inadequate and existing vacant council is owned premises were assessed as potential locations and were found unsuitable due to either accessibility issues, capital costs and/ or timescales for making premises suitable for the intended use. To conclude the landlord of Enterprise House has committed to carrying out the fit out works as their own costs to enable immediate occupation of the premises and therefor timely delivery of the services and it is proposed that the Council takes a 6-year lease with a tenant break option at year 3 at Enterprise House and otherwise on terms which are assessed to be in line with the market. It stated how the rent would be paid from employability programmes funding.   RESOLVED - It is recommended that: - (a)    Cabinet agrees to enter into a lease of Units 3C & 3D Enterprise House. (b)   Cabinet agrees to delegate the approval of final lease terms to the Executive Director Economy and Public Protection which are summarised at Part III, Appendix 2.   REASON - The recommendations are supported by the following reasons: - (a)    To enable the provision of the Darlington Employment Hub and delivery of employability programmes from a suitable and centralised location. (b)   To meet Government objectives as set out in the Get Britain Working White Paper (c)    To provide a fit for purpose, timely and cost-effective solution to delivery of employability services (d)   The lease terms and rent are in line with the market and offer value for money  

Date of Decision: September 8, 2026