Key information
Executive summary
Buckingham Gate is no longer required by the MPS and has been de-commissioned. There were no public facing facilities at this location.
The existing lease expires in February 2020 which does not cost effectively provide sufficient time to relocate alternative MPS functions to it or to sublet. Agreement has been reached with the landlord for an early surrender of the lease which avoids significant costs.
Recommendation
The DMPC is asked to approve the surrender of the lease of 4/5 Buckingham Gate on the terms set out in Part 2.
Non-confidential facts and advice to the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (DMPC)
1. Introduction and background
1.1. Buckingham Gate has become surplus to MPS operational requirements and has been vacated and decommissioned.
2. Issues for consideration
2.1. Consideration was given to relocating alternative MPS functions to this site but this is not cost effective, and there is insufficient time remaining on the lease to enable a sub-letting arrangement.
2.2. The landlord has agreed “in principle” terms to early surrender of the lease as set out in Part 2.
3. Financial Comments
3.1. The cost of the surrender is detailed in Part 2 and will be met from the specific dilapidations reserve. The revenue savings will accrue with effect from 2018/19 following the surrender of the lease.
4. Legal Comments
4.1. No specific legal issues arise from the proposed surrender as MOPAC have the legal power to transact property. The surrender constitutes the disposal of property. Section 6 of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (“the Act”) provides that MOPAC must secure the maintenance of the Metropolitan Police Service, and secure that the Metropolitan Police is efficient and effective.
4.2. In carrying out its functions, the MOPAC may, under paragraph 7, Schedule 3 of “the Act” “do anything which is calculated to facilitate, or is conducive or incidental to, the exercise of the functions of the Office.” This includes entering into contracts and other agreements, in addition to acquiring and disposing of property (including land) under paragraph 7 (2) (b) of Schedule 3 of “the Act.”.
5. Equality Comments
5.1 There are no direct equality or diversity implications arising from this report.
6. Background/supporting papers
MPS Report
Signed decision document
PCD 349