Decision details

9.1       The Chief Operating Officer introduced report and outlined that the detailed additional information contained in this report is exempt for reasons of commercial confidentiality. The priorities contained in the Property Asset Disposal and Investment Strategy are to develop and dispose of assets to maximise the value to the Council, or yield a revenue return where this is possible. The Strategy does not currently prioritise investment in commercial property.

9.2       The Acquisition and Disposals Manager outlined the activities that have been undertaken for a number of the property assets and gave explanations where there have been delays in the development or disposal of a particular property or site.

9.3       The Committee had a general discussion concerning the role of various property vehicles, such as separate property companies, that some local authorities have established. It also discussed the possibility of using other approaches to develop property assets, such as Clear and Sustainable Futures, that could help to reduce costs and develop other opportunities.

9.4       The Committee also discussed the maintenance arrangements for public libraries. It was clarified that ESCC does own the Eastbourne Library building where there was a recent roof leak. The Chief Operating Officer will let the Committee know what caused the problem at Eastbourne Library. Condition surveys of library buildings are undertaken every three to four years. These are used to develop planned maintenance programmes for libraries, which are funded by a specific provision within the Council’s capital programme. The Council does prioritise the maintenance of libraries which are maintained to higher standards as they are high profile public buildings. Reactive maintenance work is also carried out throughout the year where the need arises.

9.5       The Committee RESOLVED to note the additional information contained in the report.