The Portfolio Holder, People & Places, presented the report which outlined the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the culture industry and sets out a request from Sevenoaks Town Council for financial assistance to mitigate current financial difficulties related to the closure of The Stag due to coronavirus outbreak.

The Chief Officer for People & Places explained the request and set out the challenges facing the culture industry at this time and the contribution of culture to the local economy and its recovery.

The Portfolio Holder advised that the People & Places Advisory Committee had considered the same report.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved: That

a)   a Council loan to Sevenoaks Town Council of up to £220,000 over the next 8 months towards essential recovery, maintenance and utility costs in respect of the Stag Theatre, be agreed; and

b)   the loan would be interest free with the stipulation that it would be paid back to the Council in financial year 2021/22. If the loan is not paid within the repayment period, any outstanding balance will accrue and be charged a rate of 6% interest with effect from April 2022.