Decision Maker: Lewes District Council Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 20, 2025

Purpose: Consideration of proposals for a long lease of Southover House to Charleston Lewes Limited   Delegation requested for the Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Regeneration and Planning in consultation with the Lead member for finance, assets and community wealth building to take all necessary steps to enter into a lease of Southover House with Charleston Lewes Limited, including completion of all ancillary documents.   To also consider potential land acquisitions and assembly.

Content: (Key decision):   (1) To note the current position regarding land and property assets at: i) Southover House, and ii) the North Street Quarter   (2) To approve entering into a long lease of Southover House with Charleston Lewes Limited, subject to ongoing due diligence and agreed final terms.   (3) To authorise the Assistant Director – Property and Development, in consultation with the Deputy Chief Executive and Leader of the Council, to:   ·        conclude commercial negotiations in relation to Southover House, including determining final terms, and   ·        enter into a lease of Southover House on the terms agreed, including all associated documents.   (4) To authorise the Director of Regeneration and Planning, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, Director of Finance and Performance, and Head of Legal Services, to assess options to further the delivery of the North Street Quarter development as set out in Appendix 2 to the report (exempt).   (5) To agree that compliance with the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules is waived in the event that any agreed rent, or turnover rent, exceeds £25,000 per annum.