There was no discussion on this item, therefore the resolution to exclude the press and public was not passed.

Cabinet Member for Finance and Performance

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Performance introduced the report which sought approval to dispose of freehold sites by auction.  The Cabinet Member explained that that the sites had been considered for development by the Council but this was not appropriate.

In response to a Member’s question on encouraging the use of self-build at the sites, the Chief Executive explained that whilst this would be encouraged, the best possible price at auction would be sought and there was no control over the highest bidder.  He added that the nature of the site did lend itself to an individual approach.

A Cabinet Member welcomed the report, referred to the footpath access point and was pleased that longstanding lessees could bid on the land.

A Member asked whether PSP Facilitating Ltd, who SBC had entered into a joint partnership with in 2016, were interested in pursing development of the land and whether building social housing had been considered?  In response, the Chief Financial Officer explained that it was not economically viable to develop on this site but another site was being considered.  He added that the Cabinet Member for Housing and Wellbeing was looking at additional social housing elsewhere in the Borough.

Resolved:

(1)  That, on behalf of the Council, Cabinet agrees in principle to dispose of the freehold of the site by auction at the reserve prices agreed with the auctioneers set out in Appendix III.

(2) That the Head of Property Services in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance and Performance be authorised to finalise the terms and the Head of Legal Services be authorised to complete the necessary legal formalities in due course.