Issue - meetings

(The Director of Housing) To consider the attached report (CHB-008-2013/14).

That the Cabinet Committee receives a report at a future meeting on the use of garage sites that are unsuitable or redevelopment.

The Assistant Director of Housing (Property) presented a report reminding the Cabinet Committee that the Council’s Development Agent was required to undertake feasibility studies for each of the 65 garage sites included on the list of potential development sites approved by the Cabinet. He advised that some garage sites were likely to be considered either unsuitable, financially unviable or would not obtain planning permission and a policy would need to be developed for the future use of such sites. He advised that one site from Phase 1 had already been withdrawn for the time being and envisaged that there would be more as the Programme progresses.

Members requested that the list of possible uses to be presented to a future meeting should include offering sites to the appropriate Town or Parish Council for purchase, for their own uses.

Decision:

That the Cabinet Committee receives a report at a future meeting on the use of difficult-to-let garage sites, and other surplus sites, that are unsuitable for redevelopment.

Reason for Decision:

Where sites are not developable, then their future use must be considered to maximise the Council’s benefit of the Asset.

Other Options Considered and Rejected:

Not to have a further report.