Issue - meetings

Members considered a report which sought approval for the submission of an expression of interest for the purchase of former RAF Scampton in partnership with the Council’s development partner ‘Scampton Holdings Limited’.

Securing a positive future for the community at Scampton and maximising the economic and social potential of regenerating the key site had been a priority for the council for many years now.  There was a much clearer understanding of the Government's disposal strategy and some of the associated time scales. It was considered the marketing materials reflected the Council's work to-date, particularly in creating a planning framework for the site and in setting out the priority and opportunity for investment in the defence sector, as well as the utilisation of key assets on the site, including the runway and the technical buildings.  The hugely significant heritage of the site had also clearly been articulated and the need for it be incorporated in future plans.

The paper before Members included a short options appraisal, which considered the Council's options going forward, along with an updated risk register, included at Appendix 2.

At this stage of the process, interested parties were  only required to submit an outline of their plans and outline details of how these would be taken forward.

Following submission of the EOI, shortlisted parties would be invited to submit a site proposal, summary business plan, financial offer and evidence of funding.

The District Valuation Office were completing a refreshed site valuation, which had been jointly commissioned by the Home Office and West Lindsey District Council, to help inform any future financial offer. Work continued to finalise the details of the legal agreements between the Council and Scampton Holdings and Officers outlined how the acquisition transfer to Scampton Holdings would be implemented and safeguards which would be put in place to ensure the site was delivered in alignment with the proposed master plan.   If the Councils EOI advanced to Phase 2, this would be the subject of further Committee decisions.

Debate ensued and Members across the Chamber wholeheartedly supported the submission of the EOI.  They spoke passionately of the work and efforts, and the highs and lows of the Scampton journey, thanking Officers for continuing to press for the best outcome for the District.  In the context of LGR this could be the District’s legacy.  The Plan for the site had the ability to  transform Lincolnshire and its economy and have long lasting positive implications for the people of Lincolnshire.    Members were encouraged by the information they had heard in the All Member Briefing.

In response to questions, it was confirmed, in the context of LGR, that should Lincoln City’s proposals for re-organisation be successful, the site would sit outside of the current District.  Others spoke of how the master plan complemented the work and wider aspirations of the GLCCA.  At the request of Members, Officers outlined the specialist nature of the site, the unique facilities and opportunities it presented, its significance in UK operations both historically  ...  view the full minutes text for item 92