(a)       Decision(s)

That Council be recommended to approve a budget of up to £250,000, to be met from the General Revenue Fund to enable the preparatory work for the next stages of the redevelopment of Aylesbury town to progress in support of the Council’s economic and commercial AVDC strategies.

(b)       Reason(s) for Decision(s)

            To enable a mixed scheme for the next phases of redevelopment of Aylesbury Town Centre.

(c)       Alternative Option(s) Considered

            AVDC could choose to do nothing and wait for a developer to come forward and suggest a scheme for the next phases of redevelopment.  However, this would be highly unlikely to happen and a high risk strategy, given the competition from other centres seeking to attract development partners for similar sized schemes.  Leaving it the market would also mean that the Council’s ability to shape and influence what happens next would be very much reduced.

            There is a risk that unless AVDC continues to take the lead, momentum in the town centre could stall, putting at risk the already considerable investment that has taken place.

(d)       Relevant Scrutiny Committee

            Finance and Services.  However as this matter will be considered by full Council, it is not subject call-in.

(e)       Conflicts of Interest / Dispensation(s)

None.