The Director of Regeneration sought approval to conduct a preliminary area appraisal of the Belmont area in Birkenhead to determine ownership and prospects for regeneration of the site. He commented that the long term intention was to assess the feasibility of demolishing existing buildings and assembling a site of strategic interest for future redevelopment to improve the economic, social and environmental well being of the area. Subject to consultation with the current land and property owners, authority was also sought for the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management to agree terms and complete the strategic acquisition of land and properties within the Belmont site boundary and in connection with such transactions, pay the vendors’ legal and surveyors fees and where appropriate ex-gratia Home Loss, Loss and Disturbance Allowance payments. He reported that in order to authorise such payments, members needed to approve an amendment to the current Private Sector Housing and Regeneration Assistance Policy.

In response to comments from members in relation to the lack of car parking in the area, the Director agreed to investigate the provision of parking whilst undertaking the area appraisal, which would be presented to a future meeting of the Cabinet.

Resolved –

(1)  That the commencement of a preliminary area appraisal of the Belmont site (including car parking provision) to determine ownership and prospects for regeneration of the site be approved, the long term intention being to assess the feasibility of demolishing existing buildings and assembling a site of strategic interest for future redevelopment.

(2)  That subject to consultation with the current land and property owners, authority be delegated to the Director of Law, HR & Asset Management to agree terms and complete the strategic acquisition of land and properties within the Belmont site boundary and in connection with such transactions, to pay the vendors’ legal and surveyors fees and where appropriate home loss, loss and disturbance payments.

(3)  That in order to authorise payments, an amendment to the current Private Sector Housing and Regeneration Assistance Policy be approved.