Councillor Alistair Bradley, the Executive Leader, presented the confidential report of the Director (Commercial Services) which provides an update on the progress associated with the Alker Lane Development. 

Officers have reconsidered the site, particularly in light of COVID-19, and how the market may be affected going forward.  Members noted the constraints plan, developments in the design, discussions with partners, and the financial model. 

Members supported the reconfiguration of the scrub area to the North East corner of the site, to maximise the developable area, whilst retaining a 10m Ecology buffer. 

Decision:

1.         To note the proposed masterplan option for the Alker Lane site.

2.         To note the possible masterplan options for the wider Strawberry Fields site.

3.         To progress with the submission of a planning application for the Alker Lane site based on the proposed option.

4.         To progress with the procurement of Quantity Surveyor/Project Manager services for the development of the Alker Lane site.

5.         To progress with the procurement of a Contractor using an appropriate framework.

6.         To continue dialogue with neighbours regarding the development of the entire site and to explore opportunities for synergy between the two sites.

7.         To note the possible Lancashire Environment Partnership (LEP) grant funding available for the development.

8.         To delegate the Project Manager and Quantity Surveyor contract award to Executive Member (Resources).

9.         To delegate the Contractor appointment contract award to Executive Member (Resources).

10.      To delegate the signing of the potential funding agreement with MHCLG to Executive Member (Resources).

11.      To commence actively marketing the site supported by the in-house business engagement team, including installation of signage at the site.

Reasons for Recommendation(s):

1.         To ensure continued progress of the development site and that the associated corporate priorities are delivered.

2.         To generate employment opportunities within Chorley.

3.         To generate additional revenue stream.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:

The council could choose not to bring forward the site at this time and rely on other employment landowners to create the supply of employment premises of which there is a shortage in Chorley now and in the future. However, there is no guarantee that other landowners will bring forward their sites and in action by the Council will only seek to exacerbate the situation.