The Head of Operations – Community Services presented a report asking Cabinet to decide whether or not the above Council owned land, which was classed as public open space, should be made available for disposal.  He provided a background to the work undertaken to bring forward the comprehensive redevelopment of the site. He outlined the objections to the proposals raised by individuals and local organisations and the response to those objections and the reasons why it would be appropriate to grant approval to the application to dispose of the site.

The Deputy leader thanked the officer for presenting the report and explained that this was an enabling report which allowed the authority to move forward and develop the land in line with the Design Commission, Development Control Committee and Members.   

The Head of Operations – Community Services agreed and said that he thought there was an element of confusion and he confirmed the area covered. The Deputy Leader said that he had read the objections and there did appear to be some confusion. He added that he was happy the report did not commit the authority at this stage and supported the recommendation.

The Cabinet Member for Communities confirmed that the Council had not yet marketed the sale of this site and that the marketing pack would provide details on the likely acceptable planning uses, the basis on which the Council was prepared to dispose of the land and any legal conditions and requirements. He stated that this would provide protection that any development would be in line with the Masterplan.

The Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Future Generations asked if local members had been consulted on the proposals. The Head of Operations – Community Services replied that they had been consulted and he had regular meetings with the local members.

The Leader confirmed that no decision had been made to dispose if the site. If they decided to go ahead it could be freehold or lease hold and this would be included in the heads of terms. Planning consent would also be required and the Development Control Committee would impose conditions in terms of the size of the site etc to safeguard the development.

The Head of Operations – Community Services confirmed that they would continue to engage with local members.

RESOLVED:             That Cabinet, having considered the report and the objections received in response to the Notices published in accordance with Section 123(2A) of the Local Government Act 1972, authorised the disposal of land at The Green and Salt Lake car park, Porthcawl.