EASTHAMPSTEAD PARK could be sold off to a hotel developer, after the council confirmed it cannot afford to keep subsidising it.

The Victorian mansion, which is surrounded by 60 acres of woodland and parkland, will more than likely be taken out of the council’s control.

Bracknell Forest Council stated that on April 10, councillors will decide what to do with the popular wedding venue. 

It has once again re-iterated that the site will not be sold to a housing developer – but the ‘most sound option’ is selling it to a hotel chain. 

Vincent Paliczka, director of environment, culture and communities, said: “After thoroughly evaluating the results of our market testing exercise, the most sound option to protect and maintain this listed building is to propose its sale to a highly professional and experienced third party conference and hotel operator, who has the means to significantly invest in the building, enhance the services currently on offer and better allow the local community access to EPCC.

“The simple fact is the council can no longer afford to keep subsidising EPCC, it’s just not financially viable. EPCC is a significant venue in the borough, but it needs substantial investment. Rather than see it deteriorate through lack of proper investment, which the council cannot realistically provide, we set about looking at alternative options to secure its future.

“Those included whether there were any plausible options for the council to retain EPCC as a directly managed service; to establish a wholly owned council company; to lease it to an external management operator; to find an alternative use for the building or to sell the conference and wedding business as a going concern.

“If the executive supports my recommendation, then all existing employees will transfer to the new owner on their existing terms and conditions and we anticipate additional job opportunities will be created as the business expands.”

The meeting will be closed to the press and public due to ‘commercially sensitive’ information.