ONE of Redlands Coast’s busiest senior community hubs is set to receive a new short-term lease, giving it certainty to continue operating while Redland City Council reviews its wider community leasing arrangements.
Councillors will next week consider granting Donald Simpson Community Centre Ltd a lease over its Bloomfield Street, Cleveland premises until June 30, 2028.
The centre, at 172 Bloomfield Street, supports about 2300 members and attracts around 60 new members each month, according to the Council report.
It runs 48 activities and programs each week, providing social, recreational, educational and physical activities aimed at reducing isolation and supporting healthy ageing.
Donald Simpson Community Centre Ltd has continued operating under a holding-over arrangement since its previous lease expired in March 2024. That interim arrangement expired in March this year.
Council officers have recommended a new lease on substantially the same terms as the previous agreement, allowing the centre to remain in place while Council completes a comprehensive review of community leases across Redlands Coast.
The proposed arrangement would avoid the need for Council to put the lease to tender or auction, with legislation allowing an exception for leases granted to community organisations.
Under the agreement, the centre would be responsible for premises maintenance, utilities and costs associated with preparing and registering the lease. It would also be required to maintain at least $20 million in public liability insurance.
A financial sustainability check, based on the centre’s past three years of financial statements, found it had operated at a deficit but showed signs of improvement.
The report says the organisation remains in a stable position, supported by strong liquidity and cash reserves, but would benefit from further work to increase revenue or manage operating costs.
Council officers say the lease would allow the centre to continue delivering services for seniors and future seniors across Redlands and surrounding areas.
Councillors are expected to consider the recommendation at their August 19 General Meeting.
