The Cabinet considered the report of the Director of Regeneration, Housing and Planning, introduced by Councillor P.Hackett, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning Strategy introduced the report which updated on the progress made to support the offshore wind sector in Wirral, highlighting two key projects linked to the Council’s Regional Growth Fund (RGF) programme which require the authorisation of Cabinet to progress.

Councillor P. Davies congratulated the Director of Regeneration, Housing and Planning and his officers for showing innovation and the progress made on the two key projects, which was a tribute to all the work undertaken. Councillor Davies further congratulated Mr Kevin Adderley on his appointment as Strategic Director, Regeneration and Environment.

RESOLVED: That

(1)  The Acting Director of Law, Asset Management and HR and the Assistant Chief Executive be authorised to enter into negotiations with Cammell Laird on arrangements for an appropriate transfer of the site either by long lease or sale for Alabama Way (Car Park and Slipway), Birkenhead and any transfer be dependent on planning permission being obtained;

(2)  Officers be authorised to progress the Supplier Park scheme for the Offshore Wind Sector as outlined within the report and a further report be brought back to Cabinet by the Strategic Director for Regeneration and Environment with the exact details of the scheme in relation to other sources of finance and quantification of the demand from the private sector and any draft terms offered by the Chrysalis Fund; and

(3)  The Acting Director of Law, HR and Asset Management and Assistant Chief Executive be authorised to enter into negotiation for the purchase of the Maritime Business Park, Campbeltown Road, Birkenhead using resources identified within the Capital Programme 2013/14 up to the maximum set and to enter into such arrangements as may be required by the Chrysalis Fund in respect of its purchase contribution and loan repayment including exploring the correct vehicle for acquisition.