Decision details

The retail unit, 12 Skinnergate a Grade II listed building suffered extensive fire damage in 2018, resulting in the building being supported by scaffolding.

The owners of the building have agreed, subject to terms and conditions, to sell the property to the Council. While the purchase and subsequent works will ensure a general improvement in the appearance of the building more significant regeneration opportunities for the immediate area may also become available with the inclusion of adjacent vacant properties in any future scheme which could include residential development whilst retaining an improved retail front scheme.

The acquisition of 12 Skinnergate be approved on the terms set out in the report to Cabinet on 11 June 2019.

The Director of Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services, in consultation with the relevant portfolio holders, pursue and conclude negotiations with the owners of the wider potential development site, and the outcomes of those negotiations and future plans be presented to a future Cabinet meeting for approval.

Reasons - Development of this Grade II listed building will improve the general amenity of the Skinnergate area.

The purchase will present future opportunities to further develop the adjacent properties into a residential site therefore increasing residential occupation and reducing poor retail units in low demand.

Alternative options have been considered.