Issue - meetings

Note – Essential Reference Papers ‘B’ and ‘C’ contain exempt information as defined by paragraph 3 of Part I of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972.  As such, they are enclosed for Members only.

That the Council surrenders its leasehold interest in the land at Bircherley Green, Hertford on the terms detailed in the report submitted.

The Executive Member for Finance submitted a report seeking approval to surrender the Council’s leasehold interest in the land at Bicherley Green, Hertford, comprising public car park, public conveniences, bus station and waiting room.

The Executive noted that two of the Essential Reference Papers contained exempt information as defined by paragraph 3 of Part I of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972.  The Executive Member expressed his preference to consider the matter in the public sphere, but did not wish to constrain Members in their deliberations and therefore, the press and public could be excluded if necessary.

The Executive Member referred to the need to modernise and upgrade Bircherley Green to encourage key tenants to remain and to attract new ones to move in.  He cited Waitrose’s position as a key tenant and their uncertain future at the site if improvements were not made.  He also drew attention to current car parking income which would likely decline without substantial investment and development of the shopping centre.  Finally, he reassured Members that a third party valuation had been sought as detailed in Essential Reference Paper ‘C’ of the report submitted.

Various Members expressed support for the proposal and referred to the importance of a quality supermarket in the town centre not just for Hertford residents, but also for people living in Ware and the surrounding villages.  Concern was expressed for the future of the bus station, to which the Leader commented that any development would benefit from maintaining existing accessibility to the site.

The Executive approved the proposal as now submitted.

RESOLVED - that the Council surrenders its leasehold interest in the land at Bircherley Green, Hertford on the terms detailed in the report submitted.