Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 12, 2026

Purpose: To approve the disposal of Breckland owned Car Parks within the Market Towns to the relevant Town Councils.

Content: RESOLVED that: 1)     Breckland District Council (BDC) dispose of the car parks including those at an undervalue where there is clear and demonstrable social, economic, or community benefit in accordance with the Secretary of State’s General Consent Order be approved.   2)     Delegated authority to finalise the terms and conditions of the disposals and complete the transactions be granted to the Executive Member for Property, Projects & Procurement, in consultation with the Car Park Transfers Governance Board.  

Reasons for the decision: Transferring car parks into local control ahead of anticipated Local Government Reorganisation ensures continuity of service and safeguards community access whilst ensuring that the way public Car Parking is managed is done on a local level best suited to the Town Councils.   The recommended approach delivers social, economic and community benefits, consistent with the Councils strategic objectives and the requirements of the Secretary of States General Consent Order.   The recommended transfer of assets removes ongoing maintenance liabilities and costs from the Councils budget, allowing resources to be redirected to other priority services.  

Alternative options considered: 1)     Agree for Breckland District Council (BDC) to dispose of the car parks including those at an undervalue where there is clear and demonstrable social, economic, or community benefit in accordance with the Secretary of State’s General Consent Order.   2)     Agree for BDC to dispose of the car parks at full market value.   3)     Do nothing and retain ownership and responsibility for the car parks.