Decision

To appoint Sampson Coward LLP as the preferred solicitors to act for three adjacent households in drafting updated easements to legalise access across the proposed development at Rawlence Road, Salisbury and authorise the commitment of funds up to the amount specified

Reasons for the decision

Wiltshire Council is proceeding to develop of a scheme for 6 social rented homes using Rollalong MMC units. The site at Rawlence Road is currently on site, with groundworks underway.

In the interest upholding previous access arrangements across the site, it has been agreed that the Council will pay a sum of up to [redaction] as reasonable legal costs per household affected by the new development to cover their legal costs, in order to legalise access provisions.

Solicitors firm Sampson Coward LLP of Salisbury has already acted for Wiltshire Council and will be instructed to act on behalf of the three households.

The consultant has been engaged to ensure they adhere to the Council’s standard terms and conditions for consultancy services.

This record of Officer Decision is required to authorise the signing of the Terms of Engagement, by Central Procurement Unit.

The quotation received is within the project budget allowed for fee, and as outlined in the current Financial Viability Appraisal.

To provide affordable housing and legalise access across the development for three adjacent households .

See attached document for considerations in line with the Wiltshire Council Constitution.

Alternative options considered

Not to fund a solicitor to better protect the interest of the residents and the council, however this would could lead to reputational damage and a legal dispute.