Ryde Town Council have agreed in principle to purchase the NatWest Building in Ryde as the next stage in developing a strategy for the Council to lead on projects that will continue to benefit the town.
Mayor Richard May says:
“The NatWest building offers an opportunity to put the community right at the heart of Ryde. By purchasing the building, Ryde Town Council will be able to provide the type of Community Hub that residents deserve - something that the current rented offices in Lind Street do not allow.
"The current council chambers in Lind Street have provided excellent office space for Ryde Town Council, but the aspirations of our councillors are to be right at the centre of the development of Ryde for residents, businesses and visitors meaning that a more suitable, accessible home would be of enormous benefit.”
Councillors cited Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council as leading the way by moving directly onto their High Street, insisting residents of Ryde should be able to enjoy the same benefits.
Accessibility is a crucial factor for Ryde Town Council and a move to a more accessible, inclusive environment where everybody can be welcomed safely and easily is seen to be of paramount importance.
Designs for the building are yet to be finalised. However, it is expected that the building will feature:
- A new accessible set of offices for Ryde Town Council.
- Fully functional Town Centre toilets including accessible options.
- Fully equipped meeting rooms of various sizes for community groups as well as other organisations.
- Rentable interview rooms.
- A genuine hub for Ryde’s community groups including display space.
- Community information centre.
- Potential event space.
More than ever, this is an exciting time for Ryde and there are a huge number of exciting projects within the town, both current and to come.
The NatWest building aims to provide the Community Hub for Ryde Town Council to ensure these projects thrive by bringing people together in a central, fully accessible location at the heart of the community.
The purchase price has been agreed at £426,000.
As with any building the purchase is subject to a successful structural survey which is set to be carried out Friday 12 January.
The purchase is to be funded through the Public Works Loan Board which allows Town and Parish Councils to borrow money for appropriate assets at preferential rates.
Ryde Town Clerk Lisa Dyer says:
“With the Government announcing £20 million of Town Board Funding for Ryde, it is envisaged that the majority - if not all - of the project will be funded through this investment.
"However, it is vital to note that this is an important step for both Ryde Town Council and the town of Ryde in and of itself.
"The Council believes that this is a necessary, prudent move that will have genuine benefits for the community.”
Consultation about the purchase is currently being held and Ryde residents are invited to complete an online questionnaire.
A hard copy of the form can be found at Ryde Library. The consultation will continue until Saturday 10 February.
To view the proposed plans and current images of Natwest Bank visit: Former NatWest Bank Building Purchase Consultation – Ryde Town Council
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