The Leader of the Council and Chairman of Cabinet, Business, Economic Development and Property introduced the report that requested the surrender of an existing lease and renewal of a new lease to maintain service provision, and allow the Trust to continue to invest in the day centre.

Cabinet were informed that it was proposed to release the existing lease in place of one for 117 years so that the trust could continue to provide services to the local older population for the future and enable the trustees to further invest in the fabric and apparatus of the operational running of the day centre.

Cabinet were addressed by Mr John Upperton, representing the day centre.  Mr Upperton provided Cabinet with the history of the centre informing that during the 1970‘s a local doctor,  Dr Geoffrey Chandler, had recognised that there was a strong need to establish a centre for the elderly within the Ascot District.

It was proposed to open a day centre that would offer support, to enable the elderly to continue living in their own homes for as long as possible by offering a friendly and pleasant environment during the day.

In 1975, with the support of other like minded people within the community, including current trustees, a luncheon club was established.  In 1978,  a site was obtained from the Royal Borough and funds raised to enable premises to be built.  The centre was opened by Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire.  In 1985 the temporary building was replaced by the permanent brick building that stands today and continues to be supported by local community and organisations.

Cllr Bateson addressed Cabinet in support of the proposals and informed that the centre also provided meals on wheels that were cooked at the centre and the were open 6 days per week.  The centre also ran two holiday trips per year, provided hairdressing and entertainment.  There was also a bus service to help get residents to the centre.

The Lead Member for Finance and Ascot reiterated the support for this excellent centre that was self-funded.

Cllr Price questioned if it was prudent to give an additional 99 year lease and asked what the rational behind the decision.  She was informed that it provided security to the centre so they could continue to invest and that the parcel of land of not one the council would look to develop on.

Resolved unanimously: that Cabinet notes the report and:

i) Approves the Surrender and Renewal of the Lease for Ascot Day

Centre for to The Ascot Day Centre Trust Ltd a term of 117 years at a

peppercorn rent (“the Lease”); and

ii) Delegates authority to Executive Director of Place to agree the final

details of the Lease.