Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: October 9, 2025

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED   (1)  That the sale of the Council owned land to the Preferred Developer, Barnfield Contractors UK Ltd, for the purchase Price and terms as set out in this report be approved.   (2)  That the Growth Programme Director in liaison with the Deputy Director of Legal and Governance to finalise and complete any terms for the disposal of the Site be authorised.   (3)  That the delegated authority be granted to the Growth Director, in consultation with the Executive Member for Growth and Development to: a)    Consider any objections to the proposed disposal of ‘open space’ at Issa Way (North); and if appropriate b)    Approve the proposed disposal of ‘open space’ at Issa Way (North).   (4)  That the quality of the bid submitted and time invested by Maple Grove Ltd, and in recognition that the commercial offer was in line with officer expectations, then Maple Grove Ltd a Framework Partner, be appointed as Reserve Bidder.   (5)  That it be noted the developer will submit a planning application in 2026 with expected start on site late 2026 with the first phase ready for occupation in 2028. That the remaining units will be phased to complete in subsequent years subject to demand.   (6)  That the Site would be required to contribute £1,322,318 towards the construction of the M65 Junction 5 improvement works as set out in the ‘Developer Contributions and Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document (SDP)’ June 2024, be noted and would be deducted from the purchase price. That the SPD conforms the contributions required from development sites within the South East Blackburn to support planned infrastructure improvements.