Decision details

Councillor Beales and the Corporate Project Officer presented the report and provided an update to Cabinet on the Major Housing Development and associated projects.  Cabinet was reminded that so far, the project had provided a new road to Lynnsport and the housing site, hockey pitches, tennis courts and had improved access and parking at Lynnsport.  Information was provided on the next phase of the project and evaluated the viability of Phase 2.

The Corporate Project Officer provided details of the Financial Viability Test for Phase 2 as set out in the report.

Councillor Pope addressed Cabinet under Standing Order 34.  He referred to part 3.6 of the report which referred to Japanese Knotweed.  He asked for clarification on how it was treated and the insurance backed guarantees.  The Corporate Project Officer provided clarification of where the Japanese Knotweed had been found and how it had been treated.

Councillor Beales referred to contingency budgets and Section 106 monies.  He also commented that the initial phase of the project had been delivered within in budget and on time.  He also referred to the new facilities which had been provided which were well used and very busy, he felt that the new access road benefitted Lynnsport and the surrounding area.

RESOLVED: Cabinet noted the progress made to date with the implementation of the Major Housing Project, the changes to the number of homes to be built and the amendments to the budget set out in the financial implications.

RECOMMENDED: Cabinet recommends to Council to approve the starting of Phase 2 as defined in the contract with Lovell’s as Lynnsport 4 & 5.

REASON FOR DECISION: To progress phase 2 of the Major Housing Project:

·         To achieve significant delivery of sustainable housing over a 4-5 year period.

·         To achieve a commercial return for the Council (through capital and revenue receipts).

·         To stimulate economic activity in the local area through direct and indirect activity.

·         To create apprenticeships.

·         To pay for the significant enhancements to the leisure facilities and new road at Lynnsport.