Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director of Economy and Public Protection

The Cabinet Member with the Resources Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) of the Executive Director Economy and Public Protection to seek approval to dispose of the plot of land at Morton Palms Business Park as shown on the plan attached in the report, subject to planning permission being obtained by the proposed purchaser.

The report explained that the plot extends to 0.56Ha (1.376 acres) or thereabouts and it is intended that the land to be used to provide surface car parking in connection with the proposed extension of Stephenson House which is the office building directly adjacent to.

The report clarified that the proposed purchaser of the Council’s plot intends to acquire Stephenson House with a view to enlarge the office building to accommodate an office relocation of a major employer within Darlington. The report stated that to enlarge Stephenson House will mean building on the current office car park and the Council is being asked if they could relocate the car park onto the vacant plot and land opposite off Alderman Best Way.

RESOLVED - It is recommended that: -

(a)    Approval be granted to dispose of the plot of land at Morton Palms Business Park as indicated on plan Appendix 1 and the Director of Economy & Public Protection be authorised in consultation with the Cabinet Member for the Resources Portfolio to agree terms in line with those set out in Part III, Appendix 2.

(b)   The AD Law & Governance Monitoring Officer be authorised to document the disposal accordingly.