Council proposes moving HQ into cinema complex

The authority said its current headquarters in St Peter's Hill were too large and in need of significant investment

A council is looking to move its offices into a cinema complex in a bid to cut costs.

South Kesteven District Council (SKDC) said its current big-budget location at St Peter's Hill, Grantham, was too large and in need of much investment.

Councillors believe that moving the authority's crew to offices at the nearby Savoy Cinema building could save aboout £300,000 per year.

The plan will be debated at a meeting next month. Council leader Kelham Cooke said a change to a mix of home and office-based working meant the authority no longer required such a large building.

"Staff welfare is a priority... and this move would provide our workforce with a modern working environment," he said.

Mr Cooke said the move would make more efficient use of taxpayers' money and help to protect services in a "challenging financial landscape".

"Crucially, there will also be a reduction in our carbon footprint - a key priority for us," he added.

It is looking to move to a nearby cinema complex

As part of the cinema development project, SKDC received a £2m grant, for the purpose of delivering an education centre.

It had been expected that the University of Lincoln would lease the office space, but the university has since confirmed it was no longer required.

Discussions are ongoing regarding repayment of the grant and the re-purposing of the building, the council said.

The proposal to move is due to be debated at a full council meeting in May.

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