The Regeneration Advisor presented the report which reminded Members that Cabinet had approved the demolition of the former Working Men’s Club at 18 High Street Swanley, the former Bank at 16 High Street Swanley and the vacant shop units and accommodation above them at 27 – 37 High Street Swanley, subject to further investigation into the possible VAT and CIL implications of developing the site.  The report informed Members about the VAT and CIL implications, and the planning implications for 27-37 High Street Swanley of it being listed as an Asset of Community Value.  The report also sought consent to proceed with the demolition process at the former Working Men’s Club at 18 High Street, the former bank (CAB centre) at 16 High Street and the disposal of the temporary building currently on the Bevan Place site.

It was moved by the Chairman and

Resolved: That, under section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Appendices Bto the report, on the ground that likely disclosure of exempt information was involved as defined by paragraph 3 (Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information)) as identified in Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972.

Members discussed the confidential appendix.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved:  That it be recommended to Cabinet that

a)      the CIL and VAT implications of developing land at 16 – 18 High Street be noted, and the demolition of both buildings (The former Working Men’s Club and former CAB building) at the earliest opportunity, be approved, noting that the demolition works had already been procured and the contractor was ready to mobilise;

b)      the revised costings for the demolition, contained in Appendix B to the report, and the fact that the previous contractor remained the best value for money, be noted; and

c)    the demolition of the former Working Men’s Club and CAB building be approved, and the fact that this was subject to a Prior Approval Notification, be noted.