Decision details

Proposed decision:

The Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate and Traded Services to agree to:

1.       the disposal of the property, Boughton Mount, Boughton Lane, Boughton Monchelsea ME17 4NA; and

2.       delegate authority to The Director of Infrastructure, in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate and Traded Services, to finalise the terms of the disposal and execution of all necessary or desirable documentation required to implement the above.

Reason for the decision

The property is surplus to the Council’s operational requirements and due to its projected value, a key decision will be required as per Kent County Council’s constitution.

Background

The site is a former hostel and special care unit within parkland/gardens. It has been declared surplus by the Council as it is no longer required for operational purposes.

The Council intends to openly market the site and advice provided from agents regarding anticipated values indicates that a key decision is required.

A decision is therefore sought to authorise the disposal of the site and to delegate authority to the Director of Infrastructure to finalise the terms subject to consultation with the relevant Cabinet Member.

Options (other options considered but discarded)

As the property is not required for the Council’s operational purposes, the main alternative option is for the site to be sold as the existing buildings are too dilapidated to bring back into beneficial use.  The disposal will provide a capital receipt to reinvest in the Council’s priorities, as set out in its Capital Programme.

How the proposed decision supports the Framing Kent's Future - Our Council Strategy 2022-2026

This decision supports Framing Kent’s Future as the disposal will, along with other assets within its disposal programme, contribute to the Council’s aim to become carbon neutral. It will also release brownfield redevelopment opportunities, helping towards the County’s housing targets.

How the proposed decision supports Securing Kent’s Future 2022 -2026: Securing Kents Future - Budget Recovery Strategy

This decision supports Securing Kent’s Future 2022-2026 by securing a capital receipt to invest in KCC’s priority projects and programmes whilst also streamlining KCC’s property portfolio, achieving financial and efficiency benefits.

As the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate and Traded Services, I agree to:

1.       the disposal of the property, Boughton Mount, Boughton Lane, Boughton Monchelsea ME17 4NA; and

2.       delegate authority to The Director of Infrastructure, in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate and Traded Services, to finalise the terms of the disposal and execution of all necessary or desirable documentation required to implement the above.