Decision details

Councillor Gidney presented a report which reminded members that the Nar Ouse Business Park had been designated Enterprise Zone status by Government in April 2016. The report followed on from the previous reports to Cabinet and brought together arrangements and approvals required for delivery of the first phase of premises, the secondary road infrastructure required to service the overall development site, and provide confirmation of external funding for the proposed speculative units at the Nar Ouse Business Park.

Councillor Gidney explained that the provision of the secondary road infrastructure and the proposed speculative units would help to attract business and developer interest in the Enterprise Zone and would help with the delivery of new business premises and employment opportunities.

Cabinet discussed financing of the scheme and assistance provided by the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership. 

RECOMMENDED: That delegated authority be granted to the Council’s Assistant Director Regeneration & Property, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Project Delivery to enter into the contract for the construction of the speculative units, the road (and other) infrastructure, the land disposal and the grant funding as outlined within the report.

2) That the amendment of the Council’s Capital Programme to accommodate the proposals as set out within this report be agreed; and

3) That the Council’s retained Legal Services provider be authorised to draft and complete all necessary contract documentation in respect of the speculative units, road (and other) infrastructure, grant funding and land disposal set out within this report.

Reason for Decision:

The Nar Ouse Business Park Enterprise Zone (NOEZ) will contribute significantly to the Council’s regeneration ambitions for King’s Lynn and West Norfolk.  Investment in the NOEZ will help to stimulate business growth and potentially attract inward investment.