Content

The sale of land and property known as Public
Convenience, South Hill, Woolley Moor (as shown edged red on the
attached plan).

The toilet block is located between Ogston New Road and Ogston
Reservoir, to the west of Severn Trent Water south car park, and is
in a dilapidated state.

Cabinet on 9 January 2008 approved the closure of all Councils
toilet blocks with effect from April 2008 as part of a wider
efficiency review. It was discovered at that time the council did
not have registered title to this toilet block. Title was applied
for, and granted, however this just covered the footprint of the
toilet blocks as the Council was unable to demonstrate exclusive
possession of the surrounding land, which remains in Severn Trent
Water (STW) ownership.

The property was acquired by way of adverse possession and is held
under General Fund.

At its meeting on the 30 July 2025 Asset Management Board supported
disposal of the property by auction.

The Council's approved RICS registered Auction provider, Eddisons,
has advised that the property should be marketed at £500 with
incremental increases of £250 to gauge interest. The Director
of Estates, Property and Assets to be given delegated authority to
set a reserve price prior closer to the auction date. This should
ensure that the Council meets its legal obligations in respect of
section 123 LGA 1972. The terms of the contract with the Auctioneer
provide for a 1% Buyers Premium fee (subject to a minimum of
£1500 plus vat) be charged on any sale.

The Property can be sold under S123 of the Local Government Act
1972 as the property is vacant and the disposal will be at market
value.

Reasons for the decision

In pursuit of the strategy A Great Place to
Live Well.

The sale of the land will reduce a maintenance liability on the
Council and secure a capital receipt which can be used towards
priority projects

Alternative options considered

Bring the toilet block back into use in
conjunction with STW management of Ogston Reservoir - this has been
investigated and STW are not exploring development of the site for
tourism.

Purchase an access from STW - STW are not willing to sell any land
for access.

Demolish the toilet block and retain the land - not considered best
value of money to the Council.

Transfer the toilet block to STW - not considered best value of
money to the Council.