Decision details

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Cabinet considered an exempt report seeking a recommendation to Council for approval of a budget for design fees for the conversion of the West Wing offices to 25 new apartments.

The conversion to residential units would help meet the wider objectives of the Council in increasing the provision of housing within the Borough.

Alternative options considered and rejected by the Cabinet:

·         Not to approve a recommendation to Council on a budget for design fees.

Resolved to recommend Council to:

1.    Approve a budget for design fees for the conversion of the West Wing offices to 25 new apartments;

2.    Authorise the Head of Corporate Governance to enter into any legal documentation necessary to implement the redevelopment project; and

3.    To delegate the appointment of the advisors and design team to the Group Head of Regeneration and Growth in consultation with the Portfolio Holder.

Reason for Decision

As part of the efficiencies being delivered by Project Lima the West Wing will become vacant by May 2019 and available for alternative uses. Its conversion to residential use will meet the wider objectives of the Council in increasing the provision of housing within the Borough.

The Council obtained Permitted Development Rights approval for conversion of the building from offices to residential use (25 apartments) on 17^th October 2018.

The ongoing revenue stream (once the works have been completed) will assist in the future long term financial stability of the Council.