Decision details

Cabinet received a report of the Property Development Project Manager.

The Managing Director introduced the report and explained that it was asking for Cabinet’s approval in principle for a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) process.  The report was not asking Cabinet to make the order just to give authority to make preparations.  The CPO related to Zone A which was at the front of the Business Park where the council had been acquiring assets.  Most acquisitions had been done by agreement, however, there were some rights and interests where there may be a need to acquire by CPO.

The Mayor commented that the decision regarding the Metropolitan Line Extension would have an impact, but that the council still wanted to make improvements to the Business Park.

            RESOLVED:

            That Cabinet:

1.     Supports the comprehensive redevelopment of Watford Business Park Zone A (indicatively edged red in the plan attached as appendix 1 to the report) for the reasons outlined in the report.

2.     Notes that officers are carrying out an options appraisal with regard to the delivery mechanism for the redevelopment of Zone A.  The details of which are contained within the report.

3.     Agrees in principle to the use of Section 226(1)(a) Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) compulsory purchase powers, if necessary, to acquire outstanding land interests and existing rights (which may be extinguished or overridden) in the proposed Watford Business Park Zone A development site (indicatively edged red in the plan attached at appendix 1 of the report) where acquisition by agreement is not possible.

4.     Agrees to authorise officers to take all necessary steps to commence the process for the making, confirmation and implementation of a Compulsory Purchase Order, including securing the appointment of suitable external advisors and preparing all necessary CPO documentation.

5.     Notes that a further report will be presented to the Cabinet to approve the making of the order and confirm the extent of the order lands to be acquired following the finalisation of the necessary preparatory work and delivery option appraisal.