Mayor Cllr John Robertson told The Bridge at the very start of the meeting that Berwick Town Council is incurring survey costs regarding the feasibility of developing the former Barclays Bank building on Hide Hill (into town council offices and potential commercial and residential property) because: ‘You have to spend money sometimes, to speculate to accumulate.’
The Bridge editor had asked why there was no mention of this development project or the town council taking over the lease on Marygate market in the council’s monthly newsletter; the council’s only direct communication with the town regarding its decision-making. The Mayor laughed off the question with : ‘Have you seen the size of the newsletter?! We’d have to double the size of it to get everything in.’
While the Mayor was uncertain whether a structural engineer or a surveyor has been tasked with the feasibility study, he then went on to explain that residents would be informed of the events regarding the substantial investments of the town’s money: ‘when we have any news to share’ and not before.
In fact, the plans to develop the building have already entailed council resources in staff time producing a nine-page document setting out the case for buying the building (£345,000) and developing it (initial est. c £1 million) in order to save £12,500 a year in rent. Though councillors appear to have been convinced that the saving will be £27,404.70 per annum, presumably on the basis that a new building will not incur rates, utilities or insurance costs. (See attached pdf)
To view the video of Berwick upon Tweed Town Council meeting click here