The Regeneration and Place Portfolio Lead introduced the report of the Director of Law and Governance, which set out a referral from Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee.  The report detailed a proposed disposal of the former Ministry Of Defence (MOD) land on Old Hall Road Bromborough. The land previously formed part of a portfolio of sites that were bound by an option to purchase in favour of the Wirral Growth Company but under revised arrangements the Council had full unfettered control over the site. The matter had been referred to Policy and Resources Committee as the disposal of land was likely to be sold for more than £500,000.

Resolved – That the former Ministry of Defence, Old Hall Road Bromborough site be declared surplus to the Council’s requirements and that authority be given to the Director of Regeneration and Place to secure its disposal on the best terms achievable.

The Birkenhead Portfolio Regeneration Lead introduced the report of the Director of Regeneration and Place which set out a route for the disposal of the former Ministry Of Defence (MOD) land on Old Hall Road Bromborough.

It was reported that the land previously formed part of a portfolio of sites that were bound by an option to purchase in favour of the Wirral Growth Company but under revised arrangements the Council has full unfettered control over the site.

In response to Member questions on the site, assurances were given that the land was no longer considered contaminated, and that surveys to show this would be available to developers. It was also noted that the land had the benefit of outline planning consent and there was a related planning obligation. Subsequent reserved matters approval would be accompanied by further detailed on the planning obligation requirements. Example planning obligation requirements were a minimum of 20% affordable homes, enhancements to open space within the country park as well as provision of cycle ways and footpaths as part of a detailed travel plan along with new bus stops on Old Hall Road and an agreement to enhance biodiversity on site or to male an off-site contribution.

Members sought clarity and were given assurances that by allowing this site to be developed, it would reduce the pressure to build further property elsewhere such as on the green belt.

On a motion by Councillor G Davies and seconded by Councillor P Martin, it was –

Resolved – That

1.  Policy and Resources Committee be recommended to declare that the former Ministry of Defence, Old Hall Road, Bromborough site is surplus to the Council’s requirements and that authority be given to the Director of Regeneration and Place to secure its disposal on the best terms achievable; and

2.  Delegated authority be given to the Director of Law and Governance, in consultation with the Director of Regeneration and Place, to secure the associated legal documentation that will be required to finalise the disposal of the site.