URL: https://iow.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=731

Decision Maker: Policy, Finance and Resources Committee

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Consideration was given to the report which sought the committee’s agreement of the Land and Property Asset Disposal Policy for onward recommendation to Full Council for its adoption, noting the risks associated with the policy’s approach, as outlined in paragraphs 17 – 21 of the report.   Committee members expressed support for the aims of the policy and acknowledged the risks associated. Questions were raised about whether previous land disposals would have been affected by delays had the proposed policy been in place at the time.   Cllr Peter Spink was in attendance and was invited to ask a question. He raised concerns about how the disposal process could be made more transparent and dispel a perception of secrecy. It was advised that a degree of confidentiality was necessary during these commercial arrangements, to enable effective dialogue with developers and landowners.   Questions were raised regarding whether the draft policy clearly required that all council land disposals (not just land retained for repurposing) be assessed for their suitability for social housing, in line with Full Council’s resolution. It was advised that the policy had been shaped through recent councillor consultation, but officers confirmed they were open to reviewing further proposed amendments to better reflect the intent of the original resolution.   Councillors referred to a document which had been circulated containing proposed amendments to the draft policy. It was suggested that these amendments be referred to officers for consideration and possible inclusion in the version of the policy to be presented to Full Council. Officers expressed a willingness to incorporate as many of the suggested amendments as possible given the challenging timescales.   The committee agreed that the policy could be reviewed and refined further once in place, and thanked officers for their continued efforts.   Following discussion, it was proposed and duly seconded, and it was;   RESOLVED:   i)                 THAT the Committee notes the risks associated with this policy approach outlined in this report (paragraphs 17 – 21); and communicates those risks on to Full Council.   ii)               THAT the Committee agrees the Land and Property Asset Disposal Policy, subject to referring it to officers for additional amendments, so it can be recommended to Full Council for adoption on 16 July 2025.

Date of Decision: July 3, 2025