URL: https://westsussex.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2246

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance and Property (Cllr Jeremy Hunt)

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: The land known as County Buildings in Crawley was declared surplus to service use in 2018 (decision reference - FR17 17/18) and most of the buildings were subsequently demolished. After undertaking viability studies, the conclusion is that the County Council’s best interests would be met if the land and any remaining buildings on the site are optioned to the County Council’s Joint Venture Partnership for a limited period of up to five years. This would enable a business case to be developed for the future development of the site in line with the criteria for joint venture projects using county council-owned land. Any final decision on the future of the site would depend upon the outcome of the business case and the consideration of that case by the two partners.

Content: The land known as County Buildings in Crawley was declared surplus to service use in 2018 (decision reference - FR17 17/18) and most of the buildings were subsequently demolished. After undertaking viability studies, the conclusion is that the County Council’s best interests would be met if the land and any remaining buildings on the site are optioned to the County Council’s Joint Venture Partnership for a limited period of up to five years. This would enable a business case to be developed for the future development of the site in line with the criteria for joint venture projects using county council-owned land. Any final decision on the future of the site would depend upon the outcome of the business case and the consideration of that case by the two partners. The Cabinet Member for Finance and Property has: (1) Approved entering into a time and performance limited option agreement with the County Council’s joint venture partnership Kinsted Developments LLP in relation to the land owned by the County Council at the former Crawley County Buildings site, including Centenary House, Crawley. (2)Delegated to the Executive Director of Law, Assurance and Insight in consultation with the Assistant Director (Property and Assets) to proceed with the completion of the option agreement. None declared.

Date of Decision: August 8, 2025