Agenda item

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economy which outlines the proposals for redeveloping the former Fleece Hotel site.

9.1    The Cabinet Member for Regeneration and the Economy introduced the report and highlighted key aspects. He explained that they had gone through the Competitive Dialogue process and were pleased with the appointment of Dowdeswell Estates as a Partner.

9.2      Councillor Pullen opened the discussion. He questioned what would happen with the Longsmith Street Car Park in the redevelopment, and, moreover, what lifespan it had. The Cabinet Member for Regeneration and the Economy responded to say that the car park was largely no longer fit for purpose, something which was evident from its current condition. The Major Projects Consultant explained that the existing structure of the car park could potentially be used, however there were likely to be several archaeological considerations. He added that the car park had perhaps reached the end of its usefulness, however the question of what to do with it was still being considered. Councillors Pullen and Tracey commented on the dilapidation of the car park – namely the staircases, the doors and the parking spaces which were now too small for modern vehicles. Councillor Tracey in particular was of the opinion that any redevelopment proposals should also include redevelopment of the car park. The Major Projects Consultant responded to say that the main focus will be the redevelopment of the former Fleece Hotel. Additionally, whilst Longsmith Street Car Park would remain a public car park in the interim, this was likely to change in the future with the possibility that it would become a private car park.

9.3   Councillor Organ asked the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and the Economy and the Major Projects Consultant how far into the legal process of the sale they were. The Cabinet Member for the Regeneration of the Economy advised that it was not a straightforward sale as it was likely to be a Joint Venture relationship - the Council ‘s lawyers, One Legal, and Dowdeswell ‘s lawyers were currently in contact about this. The Major Projects Consultants added that Dowdeswell Estates appealed as a partner given that they have end users in the form of the proposed hotel and restaurants. Lastly, he informed the Committee that due to the complexity of the project and the planning required, it could take at least 5 years.

9.4      Councillor Hilton commented that he was pleased with the progress made thus far. He stated that the development would be good for both Westgate Street and the City of Gloucester as a whole. In relation to the Longsmith Street Car Park, he asked whether the structure was safe, and whether it had been assessed by engineers. The Major Projects Consultant explained that they would need to take samples of the structure, but that there were ways to strengthen the core structure, if needed. Noting the issues with the car park, Councillor Toleman asked whether any maintenance costs had been set aside. The Cabinet Member for Regeneration and the Economy stated that they did not have the detailed cost of figures at this stage. Additionally, it was also about striking the right balance, looking at how prudent it would be to spend money on maintenance of the car park before the development itself had started.

9.5      Councillor Tracey stated that she welcomed the report and asked whether the development could be brought forward. Councillor James responded to say that they would need to gain permission as it was a Joint Venture between the Council and Dowdeswell Estates. He re-iterated that from start to finish the project would likely take 5 years.

9.6     RESOLVED: - That the Overview and Scrutiny Committee NOTE the Report.