Decision details

Decision:

That, in line with the Land and Property Disposal Policy, the Executive authorises The Joint Executive Head, Assets and Property to negotiate terms for a disposal at best consideration and to subsequently enter into all relevant legal documentation required to complete the transaction of the Council owned land comprising Land West of Winds Ridge, Send Hill in return for a capital receipt.

Reason(s):

1.      To facilitate the building of new homes in compliance with the local plan designation.

2.      To generate Income (a capital receipt) and reduce revenue costs.

Other options considered and rejected by the Executive:

1.      Do nothing – We can retain the land, keep it as amenity land and protect the biodiversity of the site. The council will continue to have revenue costs associated with maintenance and security. There is a risk of possible future claims if the made ground is disturbed. In addition, the council would have to comply with the Occupiers Liability Act 1984 for members of the public using the land.

2.      Pursue a joint development – This option has already been reviewed by senior officers and rejected due to a lack of in-house resources available and costs that the council would need to bear for remediation. The site is also not considered suitable for development by the HRA. The Council’s future development options will be extremely limited due to access issues.

Details of any conflict of interest declared by the Leader or lead councillors and any dispensation granted:

None.