Given a number of statements from the operators of the Bike Kitchen and its supporters about the council’s leasing of the premises, known as the Fisherman’s Store, in which they currently operate, we wish to deliver clarity over the issue given those statements are unfortunately very misleading.
The situation is a lot more complex and is now the subject of legal proceedings. For 12 years the Bike Kitchen has benefited from heavily subsidised accommodation at Wet Dock. It is the only organisation in Wivenhoe to have such a historical privilege even though they are not a charity and they only use the premises for four hours a week. At the outset of that agreement, it was made clear that their use of the premises was until such time that a commercial tenant could be found. The council was approached by a commercial tenant and we approached the Bike Kitchen to seek to work with them to ensure they would continue to operate at a new site.
The council has offered the Bike Kitchen two options – better premises behind the Town Hall at their current rent, after a rent free period and with the works needed at the expense of the council, or to stay in their current location with a new lease with the rent increasing to a market level over the next five years. The council also plan to open the disabled toilet based at the Fisherman’s Store as this is a much-needed community asset.
The Bike Kitchen has rejected both offers and instead has started legal proceedings against the council.
This action is costing local taxpayers twice – for legal costs, necessary only because legal action was taken against the council, and for lost rent.
The council has tried to negotiate with the Bike Kitchen on numerous occasions, and offered mediation, but sadly they have resorted to expensive legal action.
We are still open to negotiating alternatives.