The Cabinet Member for Economy and Property introduced the report and explained that there had been a delay in reporting it to Cabinet as other options for exploring opportunities with the building had been considered.  She said that in order for the Council to achieve the most income from the sale, it would be sold with outline planning permission and the proceeds would be used for future development plans in Sittingbourne High Street.

A visiting Member supported the proposal but said his preference would be for the proceeds to be spent on the homeless.  The Deputy Leader responded that money would be spent on the homeless anyway.

Resolved:

(1) That the disposal of the freehold of 17/17A Station Street by auction with outline planning permission at the reserve price agreed with the auctioneers set out in Appendix II be agreed.

(2) That the Head of Property Services in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Economy and Property be authorised to finalise the terms and the Head of Legal Services be authorised to complete the necessary legal formalities and all agreements and deeds arising from or ancillary to the disposal in due course.