It has been a busy month with the Hub, with progress in many areas.
Initial proposals from the contractor are within budget. We are working with the contractor to finalise detailed designs and specifications and to progress tendering of the main work packages.
- One option for the build is to use a modular design with units built offsite and delivered to site for installation. This reduces cost and build time and the building will have excellent insulation.
- We expect the solar panels on the roof to provide the electricity needed and even be able to export energy and/or provide EV charging.
Work continues on the planning preconditions so that they do not delay building start.
Mereside Medical has provided a letter of intent to lease the GP Premises as designed in the planning application and expect to be there for a long time. With the recent closure of the Sutton GP, extra provision in the area is especially important.
The agreements for land transfer are in progress and we expect them to be ready soon. The SWCLT has confirmed that they will provide the land they own for free to the Council, although we will cover legal costs related to the transfer.
We now have draft funding agreements from ECDC. We need to finalise milestones and Project timings next.
The Parish Rooms have been put up for sale. Although this is a historic site and it would be nice to keep them, the cash from the sale will go towards the new building which will be much more fit for purpose.
The PWLB Loan application is nearly ready and final submission will be soon. This provides some of the funding required for the build.
We continue to apply for other sources of funding for parts of the project. Any additional funding will reduce the amount of the PWLB Loan that we need to draw down.
An income and expenses budget is in progress and initial sums show that this can break even or even make a bit of profit.
The Council agreed to delegate detailed review of the contracts, agreements and budget to the Project Group who will review and present recommendations to the April Council meeting.