Issue - items at meetings - Deputations

(The closing date for receipt of deputations is 12 noon on 27 January 2011)

(a)         Deputation concerning Anston House, 137-147 Preston Road, Brighton (copy attached).

89.1               The Cabinet Member considered a deputation from Mr Will Scoular concerning the Anston House site on Preston Road, Brighton.

89.2               Mr Scoular explained that he represented the bank in control of the site and that the sentiments expressed in a e-petition about the site were, in part, shared by the site owner. He reported that significant progress had been made since the e-petition had been started and that architects had been appointed to develop a suitable scheme for the site. He stated that the planning application was being developing by working closely with council officers and that it was therefore unnecessary to pursue compulsory purchase of the site.

89.3               The Cabinet Member welcomed the considerable progress been made at the Anston House site. Development of the site, at a neighbourly scale, remained a top priority and urged the developer to work closely with local residents. The Cabinet Member explained that he expected to receive the petition at his next meeting in March, but assured the petitioners that officers were meeting regularly with those involved in the development of the site and that and proposals were progressing. In addition, the council’s enforcement officer had served notices that required improvement to the condition of the office building and land by April 2012.

               The Cabinet Member stated that, given the long history of the site, there remained issues still to be resolved, but added that the progress made to date provided a strong basis for any further action that may be required.

89.4               Councillor West reported that the e-petition had been initiated by Councillor Kennedy prior to the progress detailed in the deputation, which had taken place in a relatively short period of time and was welcomed.

89.5               The Cabinet Member reiterated that the petition would be received at his next meeting and that he would respond in full at that time.

89.6               RESOLVED – That the deputation be noted.