URL: https://democracy.darlington.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2036

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: The Cabinet Member with the Economy Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) to seek Members approval for the acquisition of 18 King Street. The report explained that in line with the Town Centre Regeneration Strategy and as part of the Strategic Sites Development Programme Darlington Town Centre, serval properties in the Commercial Street were purchased and demolished in and around 2022 using Indigenous Growth Fund (IGF) to create a comprehensive development site.   It was clarified that a block of three properties on King Street were included in the intervention, two of the tree properties were acquired at that time, and now an opportunity to acquire the remaining property with vacant possession has arisen and terms have been agreed in principle with the current tenants with secure tenancies being compensated to assist with relocation.   The report stated that to acquire this property it would complete the commercial street development site assembly as included in the development agreement with CityHeart and paves the way for redevelopment at pace. The acquisition also allows for the subsequent demolition of the three properties on King Street removing unsightly vacant properties from a public area in the short term and providing holding cost savings.   RESOLVED - The agreement of final terms of the acquisition to the Executive Director Economy and Public Protection which are summarised in the Part III report at Appendix 2   REASON - The recommendations are supported by the following reasons: - (a)    To complete the site assembly of the Commercial Street development site and enable redevelopment of the site under the council’s development agreement. (b)   To enable the demolition of the three King Street properties together at a substantial cost saving over demolition of the two already owned in isolation.  

Date of Decision: September 8, 2026