Decision details

The Tenancy at Will will allow the Company to place a coffee kiosk and seating to sell refreshments and snacks. The Tenancy will run up until the 5^th December 2020. Intended as a trial basis only.

Burrows Playing Field is one of the Council’s most popular parks with dog walkers, families using the playground and bike track and families that are associated with nearby schools and nurseries. There is no refreshment options close to the park and as such has been identified as a good option for a coffee kiosk, initially on a trial basis.

We had three potential (new to CBC) vendors which were considered for this trial period. Two were considered on the basis that they were ‘new’ businesses to the Council and not already in occupation of one of the parks or commercial units in the Councils portfolio and this was an opportunity to enter and trial a new market. 

Due to the short turnaround time to maximise the chance of some summer months and on a trial basis it made sense to invite Cheltenham based newcomers. It offers a new business and the Council an opportunity to assess the viability of this location and makes a new business more able to bid in the future from an informed point of view. It also helps prevent other businesses monopolising the parks opportunities.

The chosen vendor had already had set up their business, acquired all equipment, vehicles and branding needed and had a robust business plan.  They were ready to trade. COVID prevented this business from proceeding as hoped.

The Tenancy at Will being offered will be similar to the one that is currently in place at Hatherley. The Council and the vendor can terminate this agreement at any time allowing great flexibility for the Council with this new venture. By allowing this Tenancy at Will to be in place the council will be receiving income and allow a local business an opportunity to trade in these difficult times.

The Council could decide not to have a coffee kiosk in the park but it would mean that we would not be receiving any income or helping to start a local business.

Ward Members have been informed and local stakeholders consulted. All consulted were in support.