Agenda item

Members considered a report setting out the process, timetable and key milestones over the next 6 months for Brosterfield Caravan Site. Stage 1 involved engagement with the community prior to submission of the proposed discontinuance order for consideration by Planning Committee and application to the Secretary of State for confirmation of the discontinuance order. It was confirmed that stage 1 would take the Authority to completion of the planning process and stage 2 would consider market viability of the property with a future report to the Audit, Resources and Performance Committee in May 2015. It was noted that opportunities for the 2015/16 season would be considered while a detailed market analysis was carried out.

In introducing the report the Chief Executive provided background information on the reasons for acquiring the site for the benefit of those Members appointed to the Authority since it had been purchased.

Cllr D Birkinshaw and Cllr A Favell advised the Committee that although they would be taking part in the discussion and voting on this item, as Members of the Planning Committee they would keep an open mind and only take planning issues into account when deciding how to vote on any future planning application relating to this site.

During consideration of this item Members discussed how the Authority would allocate any additional income should a surplus be made following a future disposal. It was suggested that in light of the reasons for the purchase of the site any surplus should be used specifically for the benefit of the local community. The Chief Executive gave assurances that the project team would consider this issue and include suggestions in the report back in May 2015.

The recommendation was moved, seconded, voted on and carried.

RESOLVED:

1.       To approve the actions in the planned timetable at Appendix 1 as the next steps as part of development and disposal options.

2.       To request that officers keep the Chair and Deputy of the Authority and Chair and Vice Chair of Audit, Resource and Performance Committee and the Member representative for Asset Management advised on progress.