Decision details

The Executive Leader, Councillor Alistair Bradley, presented the confidential report of the Director of Planning and Property.

The project would deliver significant town centre regeneration, thus providing social and economic benefits including new jobs, increased tourism, additional Gross Value Added (GVA), additional high quality town centre living, a high-quality public square including improved public realm, new commercial space and office space.

The Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Alan Platt, queried the need for additional housing in this area, but Councillor Bradley explained the desire to build within the town centre rather than on greenbelt.  The rate of private sector building in the town centre also supported the demand for homes in this area. 

The operation of the properties would be considered by the Development and Assets Working Group. 

The Executive Leader, Councillor Alistair Bradley proposed, the Deputy Leader, Councillor Peter Wilson seconded, and it was Resolved (unanimously)

1.         The progress of the Levelling Up, Town Centre Improvements and Civic Square Project be noted.

2.         Approval of the acceptance of the £20m Levelling Up grant.

3.         Approval to an increase in capital budgets of £38.762m taking the overall budget to £44.480m to deliver the Town Centre Improvements and Civic Square Project. The breakdown is detailed in point 38.

4.         Approval to the submission of the relevant statutory documentation to progress the new Levelling Up, Town Centre Improvements and Civic Square Project.