The Committee resolved to:
1) authorise Benwell House Phase 2 project to proceed to determination by the Planning Committee meeting at the earliest opportunity, and
2) to note that Assets will finalise terms and identify a preferred contractor and then make recommendations for approval to the Development Sub-Committee, the Corporate Policy and Resources Committee and Full Council.
Paragraph 3 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information)
Cabinet considered an exempt report on the construction costs for Ceaser Court Phase 2, Sunbury-on-Thames.
Alternative options considered and rejected by the Cabinet:
· Delay works
· Do nothing
Resolved to:
1. Recommend to Council to approve the increase in spend for the construction works from £13.3m to £18.913m (cost for both Phases I and II). This increase delivers an extra 34 residential units and community space on the ground floor;
2. Authorise the Group Head of Corporate Governance to enter into any legal documentation necessary to implement this construction project; and
3. Approve the appointment of the contractor to undertake these works as contained in this report,
subject to officers providing some additional information and technical clarification within the report, with such information being provided to the Leader and Deputy Leader prior to publication for Council on 22 October 2020.
Reasons for Decision
· To facilitate the development of much needed rental and affordable housing in the Borough. The scheme provides a total of 36 apartments and will contribute a minimum of 8 affordable units (subject to planning). There is clear intention to provide further affordable units, once technical planning viability negotiations have been completed.
· The ground floor will provide a new community facility.
· To increase the provision of well managed rental properties within the Borough .
· To provide a long term income stream for the Council.