Purpose

The semi-detached farmhouse at Wainfleet Estate (Holding 267E), County Farm Road, was approved for disposal following the death of the tenant and the subsequent early surrender of the tenancy by the personal representative, resulting in vacant possession of the property. The farmhouse is considered surplus to the requirements of the County Farms Estate (CFE) portfolio. An offer of £180,000 was previously accepted in May 2025, with approval granted by the Executive Director; however, the purchaser subsequently withdrew. The site was then re-marketed by Beam Estate Agents at £179,500 until May 2026 when the asking price was reduced to £159,000. Despite continued marketing, interest and viewings have been extremely limited and only one party (a young local couple) has made any offers. Their first offer was £120,000 and the agents have negotiated this to £135,000 and consider that this is genuinely the top of the budget the couple can afford. Although a disappointing outcome against the asking price and previous deal, the agent reports extremely challenging market conditions with very little alternative potential interest. They cite that the few offers that are being made against any of their property instructions are generally 20% to 30% lower than asking.

The disposal is expected to generate a small annual revenue savings of £1,366, as validated against the Council’s financial records. Local Councillor Engagement At the original time of planned disposal, Cllr Richard Butroid (former Portfolio Holder) and Cllr Wendy Bowkett (local County Councillor) were both supportive of disposing of the property. Councillor Rob Gibson and Councillor Maria Hume were consulted in December 2025 and were supportive of the proposed disposal of the property with no comment regarding the price itself. Social Value No adverse social value impacts are anticipated as a result of the disposal of this site. On the contrary, disposal is expected to secure the future of the property, mitigate the risk of deterioration, and enhance its overall appearance, contributing positively to the local environment. Restrictive Covenants The sale will include a restrictive covenant prohibiting the use as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The restriction will be secured through a deed of covenant to ensure it is binding on all future purchasers. Legal Issues It is considered that the Council holds good title and is therefore able to enter into a contract for sale. No legal issues are anticipated. Local Government Reorganisation Consideration has been given to the potential implications of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), and Corporate Property’s professional assessment is that this disposal will not adversely impact LGR or that the site has a future requirement by the new “continuing” or “shadow” authority or authorities. In order for the current Council to receive the capital receipt, any disposal would need to be completed prior to April 2028.

Decision

Approve the disposal of the semi-detached farmhouse at Wainfleet Estate (267E), County Farm Road at a price of £135,000.

Alternative options considered

Option to retain was considered, however the farmhouse is surplus to requirements for the estate and this option was rejected, enabling a capital receipt.