Decision details

The minutes of the Executive of 20 May 2025 were presented by the Leader, Councillor Bialyk.

In respect of Minute 42 (Review of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy), Councillor Parkhouse spoke of the importance of the revision of policies.

The Leader moved, and Councillor Wright seconded the recommendation that the Council approve the adoption of the revised Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy and following a vote was CARRIED.

In respect of Minute 43 (Disposal Report Seeking Authority to Dispose of the Former Clifton Hill Leisure Centre), Councillor Harding felt it important that it would be 100 percent affordable and not designated for student housing. Councillor Harding also raised the point of community engagement and asked how that would be delivered.

Councillor Ketchin raised that the Leader was open to an access strip for the Portland residents that had been promised previously, as a condition of the site sale.

Councillor Patrick delighted to see this site developed and provide much needed housing for older residents. Asked for reassurance from the Leader, that once the site is sold, it cannot be used for other types of housing.

The Leader responded to members comments in the following terms:

• public engagement would be carried out through the planning process;
• the development would be exclusively for over 55s; and
• he was confident that the Council would make sure it was not used for anything other than 72, over 55s affordable homes.

The Leader moved, and Councillor Wright seconded that the Council approve a budget for £50,000 funded by anticipated capital receipts to cover disposal costs, including external agency and legal fees, associated with this sale which following a unanimous vote was CARRIED.