The Director of Law, HR and Asset Management, submitted a progress report regarding the Sail Project. It informed Members of further discussions that had taken place with Carpenter Investments and the Council’s appointed Valuation Advisers, and summarised Heads of Terms that have been provisionally agreed, subject to Cabinet approval.

Councillor Jeff Green addressed the meeting and explained his concerns regarding the overall financial implications, the loss of car parking revenue, and the need for a more comprehensive public consultation exercise.

Councillor Gerry Ellis, Ward Councillor , addressed the meeting.  He reported that his constituents were opposed this project, as demonstrated by the number of people who had voted against it at the Area Forum. He also expressed his concerns regarding the design of the project, and the loss of car parking spaces within the scheme. 

Resolved –

(1)  That the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management be authorised to undertake detailed negotiations with Carpenter Investments with a view to drafting a Development Agreement including a consultation and stakeholder engagement plan, which would be reported back to a future meeting of Cabinet for approval

(2)  That Cabinet give approval in principle for the Council to seek powers of Compulsory Purchase in order to facilitate redevelopment of the site, in the event that all other reasonable means to acquire vacant possession have proved unsuccessful, subject to the Developer indemnifying the Council against the associated costs.