Offices to let in cash chase?

OFFICES at the headquarters of South Lakeland District Council in Kendal could be rented out as part of moves to streamline its estate.

Parts of South Lakeland House on Lowther Street look set to be let out to other organisations in a bid to generate more income for the council.

The proposals are part of Customer Connect, a new programme which aims to “transform” the council by embracing digital technology.

It also involves a senior management restructure with the loss of up to 45 job roles to save  £8 million over a decade.

A report to go before the council’s overview and scrutiny committee sitting in Kendal on Friday said: “This is expected to result in a reduction in the traditional office accommodation as the council moves to new ways of working and changes its means of interacting with the public in the delivery of services.

“The current review is expected to result in the proposal to reduce the footprint of the council at South Lakeland House, providing opportunities for letting surplus space.”

The council is also considering a relocation of the Kendal Canal head depot to an alternative site in the town, although it has not yet decided where.

Kendal’s cemetery on Parkside Road is also said to be “reaching capacity” with more land needed soon. One option could involve expanding into the adjoining allotments, according to the council.

The management of Kendal’s indoor and outdoor markets is also set to come under the microscope.  The council has pledged to “improve and strengthen” the market.

The authority also plans to “maintain” assets such as the monument in Market Square, Kirkby Lonsdale, and the Ambleside war memorial.

A report said: “Due to their age they are often viewed as a liability, as there may be planning restrictions on them in order to ensure they are maintained correctly and preserved for future generations.

“Where appropriate, opportunities for community use will be sought for these assets through asset transfers.”

The draft proposals are all part of the council’s draft “corporate property and land management strategy for 2019-24.

The strategy is expected to go before the council’s cabinet at a later date.