As part of the Council’s continuing contribution to commemorating Mayflower 400, an agreement to rent the house of the Mayflower Captain (Christopher Jones) was agreed with the owner. This was originally due to last until the end of 2020, but due to the global pandemic was extended until the end of 2022. In January 2024, the current tenants contacted the Council and requested that the agreement be extended to 31st October 2024, this decision was published on 31st January 2024 with funding identified to 31st May 2024.
In agreement with the original decision, a review with the current tenants was undertaken and it was agreed to continue funding to 31st October 2024 with funding identified from various Tourism underspends.
To enable Tendring District Council to return Christopher Jones House to its former condition, a further month extension to 30th November 2024 was required. In concurrence with the Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Tourism and Regeneration, this request was approved.
Following detailed discussions and a requirement to finalise finer detail relating to the lease a further month extension to 31st December 2024 was requested. Funding was identified from the Shared Prosperity Fund and there is an understanding that Tendring District Council will no longer be accountable for funding the lease post 31st December 2024. In concurrence with the Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Tourism and Regeneration, this request was approved.
A copy of the concurrence and decision is available on file.
Related decision:
https://tdc-mgov-prd-01.tendringdc.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=12919

To fund the extension of the Christopher Jones House lease to the Harwich Society to 31st December 2024 with funding identified from the Shared Prosperity Fund.

The Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism concurred with this decision of the Assistant Director for Economic Growth, Culture and Leisure being made.

Option 1 - To not extend the lease and to close the house as a visitor attraction.
Option 2 - To fund the extension of the lease to 31st December 2024.
Option 3 -