Hampshire County Council

Executive Member - Recreation and Heritage Item 6

29 May 2003

Tile Barn Outdoor Development Centre

Report by the Director of Recreation and Heritage and the Director of Property, Business and Regulatory Services

1

Summary

1.1

The following decision is sought:

That the Executive Member for Recreation and Heritage approves the project appraisal for the construction of a Bunkhouse and replacement reception/office/storage building at Tile Barn Outdoor Development Centre at an estimated cost of £413,000, including fees, and authorised the installation of a sprinkler system.

2

Reason(s)

2.1

Tile Barn Outdoor Development Centre has operated successfully as a camping centre for young people for over 30 years. The fixed camping facilities currently limit residential options to spring and summer months. The new facilities will allow students to reside on site throughout the year. In addition, a May 2002 debate at Recreation and Heritage PRC surrounding the Outdoor Service Strategy clarified the importance of the outdoor service as a means of delivering corporate objectives concerning young people, particularly those in `hard to reach' areas. The new facility will allow greater access for youth groups and youth workers to engage with these young people in the context of challenging outdoor activity.

2.2

Over a year ago, the use of the temporary structure that housed the Centre's administrative office was formally restricted on structural safety grounds. Since this was condemned, staff have operated from the single classroom on site and, very recently, from a `shipping container' temporary office. There is an urgent need to resolve this situation and to provide more appropriate accommodation for centre staff and visitors.

3

Other options considered and rejected

3.1

The requirements of the Tile Barn for the facilities in question have been identified as a priority and the works set out in the design project appraisal are considered to be the most appropriate and cost-effective way of meeting that need.

4

Conflicts of interest declared by the decision-maker or a member or officer consulted

4.1

Not applicable

5

Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

5.1

Not applicable

6

Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent

6.1

Not applicable

Approved by:

..........................

Date of decision:

.........................

Councillor J Waddington