Issue - meetings

The Board considered a report of the Strategic Director, Children and Enterprise which provided an update on the progress of the remediation of the northern section of St Michael’s Golf Course.

The Board noted the options appraisal attached to the report for Phase 3 - reinstatement of the site for public use.

Reason(s) for Decision

The decision related to an opportunity to bring back into use the former St. Michael’s Golf Course. Entering into a commercial partnership was the only viable way of achieving this aim.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

A detailed options appraisal was contained in section 3.3 of the report.

Implementation Date

Implementation would be determined during the three month period of negotiation outlined in section 3.3.6 of the report.

            RESOLVED: That

1)         progress on the remediation of the site be noted; and

2)         approval be given to enter into detailed negotiations with the interested party for a 9-hole golf course, driving range and associated facilities.

          The Sub-Committee considered a report of the Strategic Director, Environment and Economy, which provided an update on the progress of the remediation of the northern section of St. Michael’s Golf Course and outlined the options for potential future site uses. Funding totalling £2,477,131 and an additional £90,490 had been received from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) for Phase 1 of the remediation of the northern section of St. Michael’s Golf Course. Contractors Land and Water were appointed to complete Phase 1.

          With regard to Phase 2, an initial trial would take place shortly to demonstrate if the identified potential technique was able to reduce the concentration of sulphide to concentrations that were appropriate to allow sewer disposal. Once the results were proven and a design had been signed off by the Environment Agency and also United Utilities then a Phase 2 funding application could be made to Defra. Until this was completed, the site would remain closed to public access on safety grounds.

          Following the completion of Phase 2 remediation contract the next phase would be to restore the site for re-use. Members were advised on a number of options for the site which the Council would explore further with their associated benefits and risks. Confirmation of the intended restoration option of the site would be dependent on securing funding and also agreement from Defra and the Environment Agency who would require reassurances that the remediation works would be protected during and after the implementation of the site restoration.

          It was noted that solutions were still being sought for the south side of the Golf Course and this would require further consideration.

          RESOLVED: That

          (1)      progress on the remediation of the site be noted; and

(2)            a further report be submitted to the Board on the options for future use of the site.