Sell off of land is approved

Lincolnshire County Council has ratified to look at getting rid of the land it owns which, it says, could raise £16m.
A total of 76 sites around the county have been earmarked for disposal, which would also save £1.6m in running costs per year.
They include 69 acres of ‘development land’ at Hargate House in Holbeach, the 19th century Brook House Farm in Gedney Dyke and what was Spalding Music Centre at Spalding Academy.
The Vista in Spalding and Minerva House in Holbeach are listed as being subject to a ‘options appraisal’.
The documents state that the council also owns, but plans to get rid of, the former South View Primary School, Crowland, which has planning permission for bungalows.
A county council spokesman said: “The council will be carrying out an options appraisal on surplus land and properties and a programme of decision-making will determine the best way forward for each.
“When looking at disposal options, the council will consider projects that add value to local communities wherever possible.
“Separate strategies for the future of council-owned travellers sites and windmills will be developed for approval by the executive later in the year.”
Coun Sean Matthews, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “As the new leadership of the council, we are keen to take action around assets that the authority is not using.
“Some properties are in a poor state of repair and are costing the council money in upkeep, and this is not a good use of taxpayers’ money.
“Other properties may be better used by another organisation in the community – the council could either sell these or look at other opportunities such as community ownership or leasing.
“Equally though we may choose to hold on to some assets for future projects where that is deemed sensible. It’s important to balance the needs of our communities with ensuring best value for money for taxpayers.
“Where properties or land are sold, money can be re-invested into council services and facilities for residents.”