URL: https://democracy.northdevon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4610

Decision Maker: Strategy and Resources Committee

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Committee considered a joint report by the Director of Resources and Deputy Chief Executive and Head of Place, Property and Regeneration (circulated previously) regarding a potential building acquisition.   The Committee also considered a minute extract of the Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee held on 4 June 2026 (circulated previously) which had supported the recommendations in the report.   In response to questions from the Committee, officers outlined the risks associated with the potential building acquisition.   The Committee considered a joint report by the Director of Resources and Deputy Chief Executive and Head of Place, Property and Regeneration (circulated previously) regarding a potential building acquisition.   The Committee also considered a minute extract of the Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee held on 4 June 2026 (circulated previously) which had supported the recommendations in the report.   In response to questions from the Committee, officers outlined the risks associated with the potential building acquisition.   In reaching its decision, the Committee set out that it recognises its responsibilities with regard to impending Local Government Reorganisation and the financial viability and sustainability of any new incoming unitary authority, nevertheless the Committee have also taken into account:   The significant public interest from the local community and overwhelming desire for positive intervention by North Devon Council to save these buildings. The asset being prominent listed buildings in the heart of the Sub Regional Centre and as such strong action is likely to remain an ongoing corporate priority, for any new authority in the longer term. Waiting for the new authority ‘to bed in’ would lead to further deterioration of the fabric of the buildings. The viability deficit is unlikely to be closed by the private sector alone and the feasibility study (commissioned by NDC with financial support from Historic England) suggests that public sector funding would only be available to local authorities.  This view is supported by initial approaches to national bodies and confirmed in the officer report. At this stage there is no intention to commit the capital funding, it was to ensure the saving of these buildings for future use. Enabling a mixed use to enhance the vitality of Barnstaple and the wider North Devon community - bringing new opportunities and high skilled employment to a sustainable location. Continuing the regeneration strategy that has underpinned the Council’s priorities for some time, following the purchase of Green Lanes Shopping Centre, the Future High Streets Fund package, regeneration of Seven Brethren and the Culture Fund interventions.   Taking these issues together, the Committee does not believe that the decision to explore the possible acquisition of the asset would prejudice the financial viability of any new authority.  Furthermore, it is likely that public ownership would lead to an exciting opportunity to win inward investment for this asset.   RESOLVED:   a)        That authority be delegated to the Head of Place, Property and Regeneration in consultation with the Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Planning to look to negotiate the voluntary purchase of the buildings to secure them to stem further deterioration and that a further report on the outcome of the negotiations be brought back to the Committee for consideration.   b)        That the Council work with other local and national partners, with an interest in the retention and preservation of these listed buildings. c)         That the Committee endorse the long-term aim of securing a regeneration project for the re-use of the site.  

Date of Decision: June 15, 2026