Decision Maker: Cabinet
Decision status: Decision made
Is Key decision?: Yes
Is subject to call in?: Yes
This report sets out proposals to secure the
ownership and subsequent development of a new country park at
Ranscombe Farm, Cuxton.
The Cabinet agreed to exercise the option to
purchase the Ranscombe Farm site within the current financial year
subject to Council approving the addition to the capital
programme.
The Cabinet granted delegated authority to the Director of Finance
and Corporate Services in consultation with the Director of
Development and Environment and the Portfolio Holders for Front
Line Task Force and Finance on the best terms reasonably obtainable
to:a) Transfer the Freehold of part of the Ranscombe Farm site to
Plantlife (or other party). The extent of the area to be
transferred is to be commensurate with the consideration payable to
the council.b) Take a long lease of this area back from Plantlife
(or other party) and then sublet this area back to it.c) To grant a
long lease of the remaining area to Plantlife (or other
party).
The proposal to acquire and develop Ranscombe
Farm is a unique opportunity that combines a responsive, low risk
strategy, for Medway Council to acquire the site as a new
generation Country Park which recognises policy L9 in the Local
Plan and targets in the Community Plan for high profile nature
conservation sites.It also recognises that this strategically
important site is capable of making a significant contribution
towards biodiversity and quality of life for Medway residents and
establishes a clear commitment and response to the Office of the
Deputy Prime Minister's Sustainable Communities Plan.
Publication date: 17/02/2004
Date of decision: 17/02/2004
Decided at meeting: 17/02/2004 - Cabinet
Effective from: 26/02/2004
Accompanying Documents: