To consider and comment on the options for the Houghton Lodge site and its disposal/development opportunity.

Following the declaration at Minute 58 above,  the Chairman left the meeting.  The Vice-chairman subsequently took the Chair.

The Executive Member for Assets and Housing Delivery introduced a report that set out the revised proposals for the Houghton Lodge site.  The Council would retain the site and seek to provide affordable housing to residents, subject to planning.

The Assistant Director Assets advised the report set out evidence to suggest a need for social housing, and evidence of need for accommodation for older people.  Provision of ‘downsizer’ accommodation has a knock-on affect to free up family homes.  The site being adjacent to Lavender Court and other factors outlined in the report led to the recommended future use of the site for high quality downsizer accommodation for older people on the site.   The current community space and parking pressures in the vicinity would be taken into account and form part of the planning consideration for this site.

In light of the report, Members discussed the following in summary:-

·         Supported the principle to retain control of the site

·         Proposed that officers seek to consult with the Fire Authority, Ambulance Service and GP Surgeries and take the opportunity to resolve access and car parking issues.

·         That consideration be given to the implementation of occupancy nomination rights to the development.

RECOMMENDED

1.    That the Committee support the principle to develop a Central Bedfordshire scheme on the Houghton Lodge site that would deliver high quality downsizer accommodation for older people.

2.    That the Committee request officers seek to consult with the Fire Authority, Ambulance Service and GP practices to improve access and parking in the vicinity. 

3.    That the Committee request officers give consideration to occupancy nomination rights for the Houghton Lodge scheme.