Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 3, 2026

Purpose: To seek Cabinet approval to delegated to the Executive Director of Place to approve lease transactions following marketing of four County Farms, where the aggregate rental value of the lease exceeds £500,000 in any one transaction.

Content: That authority be delegated to the Executive Director of Place to grant Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs) with an aggregate rental value exceeding £500,000, including those for the four farms currently being relet as well as any future re-lettings, following consultation with the Cabinet Member for Property & Assets and Economic Growth and the S151 Officer, on terms to be agreed.   Reason for the decision   To enable a responsive and efficient approach to granting Progression Farm FBTs, where contractual terms were typically 20–25 years and market rents meant the aggregate rental value routinely exceeds £500,000.   This delegation ensured alignment with the Farms Estate Strategy.