Decision details

Cabinet Member with Special Responsibility Councillor Hamilton-Cox)

Cabinet received a joint report from the Chief Officer (Regeneration & Planning) and Chief Officer (Resources) in order to facilitate development of the land north and south of Bailrigg Lane, Scotforth, Lancaster.  The report was exempt from publication by virtue of paragraph 3, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972.

The options, options analysis, including risk assessment and officer preferred option, were set out in the exempt report.

Councillor Hanson proposed, seconded by Councillor Bryning:-

“That the recommendations, as set out in the exempt report, be approved.”

By way of an addendum which was agreed by the proposer and seconder of the original proposition, Councillor Barry proposed and Councillor Hamilton-Cox seconded:

“That officers consider whether the negotiations can be used to facilitate Lancaster City Council’s aspirations for social housing and high environmental standards for building construction.”

Councillors then voted on the recommendation and addendum.

Resolved unanimously:

(1)     That Cabinet approves Option 1, as outlined in the exempt report.

(2)     That officers report back on and seek approval to the terms and conditions for the disposal of the two areas of land once negotiations have been concluded and terms provisionally agreed.

(3)     That officers consider whether the negotiations can be used to facilitate Lancaster City Council’s aspirations for social housing and high environmental standards for building construction.

Officers responsible for effecting the decision:

Chief Officer (Regeneration & Planning)

Chief Officer (Resources)

Reasons for making the decision:

In making this decision Cabinet is mindful that the memorandum of understanding is not legally binding and will not commit the City Council to pursue a particular course of action.  The decision is consistent with the Corporate Property Strategy which requires that the City Council review its asset base and only retain those assets required to meet its agreed objectives and priorities.  Where assets are not required for this purpose they should be disposed of at best value.  This is an opportunistic sale, allowing the City Council to improve the management of its assets.