Agenda item

The Committee heard from the Project Officer regarding the progress of the West Witney projects.

Members welcomed the positive progress of the new depot build and noted that completion remained on track for mid-February. It was further reported that redevelopment of the main social club building had commenced, with a proposed completion date of mid-April.

Members were advised that sports clubs had been consulted regarding access to toilet facilities during the construction period and in response to a Member’s question, the Project Officer confirmed that the contractor was working with Witney Mill Bowls Club to provide access to facilities they had requested, noting that these works would be undertaken at the Bowls club’s own expense.

Members were provided with further details of regular site inspections by Officers and the Council’s consultants Berry’s and noted that savings were being achieved through the introduction of a fortnightly payment plan, alongside additional savings identified through value engineering.

Members queried how any savings would be realised, including whether this would result in a reduced drawdown of loan facilities or be utilised for additional project works at the West Witney site. The Town Clerk confirmed that it was still too early to determine the level of savings; however, she advised that direction would be required prior to the setting of the Council’s 2026/27 budget on 2 February 2026. The Responsible Financial Officer would provide the most up-to-date financial information in advance of that decision.

Finally, Members were offered the opportunity to attend a site visit, with further details to be circulated by the Project Officer.

Resolved:

1. That, the report be noted and,
2. That, details of a site visit be circulated to Councillors and,

That, details of the current financial position of the West Witney project be presented to Council at its meeting on 2 February 2026.