Dibden Golf Centre gets £50,000 rent reduction in New Forest District Council post-pandemic deal

DIBDEN Golf Centre has been given a temporary £50,000 annual rent reduction by New Forest District Council to help it recover from the pandemic.

In the latest review of the 30-year contract signed in 2012, NFDC has agreed that Mytime Active can pay an annual £100,000 for the next three years.

The previous yearly rate was £152,471 but a report to the ruling cabinet said contract variations were needed because of "significant" impacts of Covid-19 pandemic to Mytime Active, a charity which runs 12 golf courses across the UK.

NFDC had provided some support through the pandemic in the form of rent waivers, some of which was funded by central government.

While the course performed well in terms of players during 2021, it was felt a return to pre-pandemic levels of wider usage was "likely to be gradual".

Services such as events, functions and food have "not yielded expected levels of revenue", the report said, as consumer confidence battles to rebound.

It added: "Moving forwards, Mytime Active wish to work with the council to safeguard Dibden Golf Centre's continuation and ensure its operation achieves a sustainable business model and a strong balance sheet.

"In broad terms, Mytime Active aim to deliver increased membership and average individual spending, deliver a profitable and high quality food and beverage offer and grow an inclusive junior golf development programme."

The cabinet unanimously backed the variations, with finance portfolio holder Cllr Jeremy Heron saying it would help ensure the partnership’s "long term success".

Cllr Geoff Blunden, the member for partnering and wellbeing, called it a "satisfying outcome".