Decision details

The Leader introduced the report of the Director of Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services (previously circulated) requesting that consideration be given to the proposed developments identified in Darlington Town Centre and to the use of Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) powers in order to complete land assembly.

The submitted report stated that Cabinet approved the release of £10M funding from the Tees Valley Combined Authority Ingenious Growth Fund for key intervention areas within the Town Centre which would have the greatest impact and aligned to the Town Centre Strategy; outlined those key interventions which included strategic site assembly including purchase of land and buildings, ensuring sites were ‘development ready’ and public realm improvements and infrastructure investment; and outlined the work undertaken to date.

RESOLVED - (a)  That the continued acquisition of properties to deliver the objectives of the Town Centre Strategy, be approved.

(b)  That the Future High Street Fund bid for the development of a residential quarter in the Crown Street/East Street area of the town centre, be supported.

(c)  That the use of Compulsory Purchase Order powers for the site assembly requirements for the delivery of a convenience store on Commercial Street car park, be agreed, and a further report be presented to Members on the next steps once negotiations with landowners has been completed and whether Compulsory Purchase Order was required.

REASONS - (a)  To ensure that the Council delivers on the ambitions of the Darlington Town Centre Strategy.

(b)  To contribute to the further economic wellbeing and vitality of the Town Centre.