Gorton Scouts saved by Lib Dem Action

12.04.31am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 29th Nov 2006

Cllr Simon Ashley Helped Gorton Scouts agree a Reasonable Rent Rate with the Council

Gorton Scouts will remain at their base on Far Lane in Gorton, it was announced today. Thanks to action from Liberal Democrat Councillor Simon Ashley, the Council has withdrawn their unreasonable rent demands. Scouts have signed a 25 year lease on the site, with rent set at just £90 per year, upgraded every 5 years by the rate of inflation, and legal costs of £138.

The Council have negotiated a deal with the Scouts. Initially, they tried to charge the Scouts £1700 per year. When the Scouts first contacted local Liberal Democrat Councillor Simon Ashley, the Council were demanding £450 per year plus £250 legal fees, and threatening to evict.

In September, Cllr Ashley presented a 500 name petition to the Council's Chief Executive, Sir Howard Bernstein, on behalf of local people. Sir Howard replied, telling Cllr Ashley that negotiations were ongoing between the Local Scouts and the Council.

Local Scout Leader Andrew Thomas said today:

"This is a great deal for us - some 80% less than the Council were proposing a couple of months ago. I want to thank the people who signed the petition, and Cllr Ashley for his help. This means the future of the Scouts on Far Lane is secure."

Cllr Simon Ashley added:

"This deal, over the length of this contract, will save the Scouts about £9000. It goes to show that when local people stand shoulder to shoulder with their local Lib Dem Councillors, we can make the Town Hall listen."

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