Decision details

To compulsorily acquire underused or ineffectively used property for residential purposes where there is a compelling case in the public interest for its acquisition to meet general housing need in the area

The Committee considered the report.

RESOLVED that:

1.         The Committee approve the making ofCompulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs), under Section 17 of the Housing Act 1985 and the Acquisition of Land Act 1981 in respect of the properties identified as ‘A’ and ‘B’ in the exempt report.

2.         Subject to the authorisation for the making of the Compulsory Purchase Orders referred to in decision 1 above, the Orders be submitted to the Secretary of State at the Department for Communities and Local Government for consideration and confirmation.

3.         In the event of the Secretary of State at the Department for Communities and Local Government returning the Orders for confirmation by the Council, the Order be confirmed on behalf of the Council.

4.         Following confirmation of the Orders, that Housing Committee approve the entry into a Cross-Undertaking with the owner(s) of the relevant property not to implement the Order on the condition that the owner(s) agree(s) to bring their property back into use within a reasonable time.

5.         In the event that a Cross-Undertaking is not entered into as referred to in recommendation 4. above, or the terms of the Cross-Undertaking are not adhered to by the owner, that authority be delegated to the Strategic Director for Growth and Environment to proceed with the compulsory acquisition of the properties in question.

6.         Following the compulsory acquisition of any of the properties, an options paper on the onward disposal be brought to the Housing Committee for decision.

7.         The Committee approve that the financial costs of the Compulsory Purchase Orders be indemnified through the Corporate Capital Programme.