A report by the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management sought approval to a request from the National Environment Research Council (NERC) to demolish the Proudman Oceanographic Laboratory on Bidston Hill. 

Members indicated that they had been contacted by concerned constituents regarding previous planning decision made in 2004 with reference to the Unitary Development Plan stating that use of the building should not changed.

The Head of Asset Management confirmed that demolition of the building as detailed in Section 4 of the report did not require consent for change of use.

Members asked for consideration of the report to be deferred to allow Officers time to provide further clarification.

Councillor P. Davies referred to paragraphs 2.5 and 2.6 and sought clarification as to the proposals for alternate use and suggested that this issue be discussed at the arranged Special meeting to be held on 9 July 2012.

RESOLVED: That

(1)  the decision regarding the demolition of the Proudman Oceanographic Laboratory be deferred so that Officers can carry out investigations and be reconsidered at the Special meeting of the Cabinet to be held on Monday 9 July 2012; and

(2)  the Head of Asset Management be requested to provide further information in relation to the previous planning decision made in 2004 with reference to the Unitary Development Plan.