Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Director of Neighbourhood Services and Communities (copy enclosed).

Please Note: Appendix 1 contains exempt information and will be considered in private session at Agenda Item 14 pursuant to Paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A.

The Council considered the report of the Director of Neighbourhood Services and Communities seeking Members’ approval to purchase two parcels of land in Langford in order to protect the existing natural habitat and reduce the risk of inappropriate future use.

Members were advised that Heybridge Parish Council had raised concerns regarding two parcels of land in Langford (as set out in Appendix 2 to the report) on the basis that the land was potentially vulnerable to inappropriate use in the future. Officers had undertaken discussions with the landowner and had ascertained that the two parcels of land appeared to be available for acquisition, subject to successful negotiation and completion of due diligence. The report advised that, given access constraints, the scope for future use of the land was limited. However, it was well suited to a naturalised use, such as a wildlife reserve, and initial discussions had taken place with the Essex Wildlife Trust.

Councillor M F L Durham referred to the Council being in the dark and how he felt the only way to progress was to seek an independent professional valuation of the land. He then proposed that, once an independent professional valuation had been obtained, the matter be brought back to the Council for further consideration. This proposal was duly seconded and agreed. Councillor K M H Lagan added his thanks to Officers for providing a comprehensive report with the relevant information to enable Members to make informed decisions.

RESOLVED that consideration of the purchase of land at Langford be deferred pending an independent professional valuation of the land and once received, this matter be brought back to the Council for further consideration.