At a meeting with Mr Herbert and his chairman Audrey Alexander on April 30 to discuss the SNCA's proposals for the future of the property with the officers of Gramsere Club Ltd, we were advised by Mr Herbert that SNCA had determined to realise the premises' value.

In order to obtain the maximum available price, Mr Herbert further advised us that following a survey of the property by Messrs Strutt and Parker, at the behest of SNCA, he understood that, subject to consent, a development of 26 residential flats could be built on the site and to pursue this, it was intended to spend about £20,000 of SNCA funds to obtain plans and consent for the redevelopment prior to marketing the site.

Mr Herbert further stated that while the club would normally have the legal right to renew our lease, this would be forfeited in the event of redevelopment.

He further pointed out we had first refusal should the premises be sold and asked that we advise him as soon as possible should we intend to exercise this as they would then avoid the above expenditure.

In view of the foregoing, you will understand I find it difficult to accept Mr Herbert's reported surprise at the rumours of the plans he detailed to us.

John Davis,
Chairman,
Grasmere Club