To seek approval for acquisition of the freehold property of Blueschool House, Blueschool Street, Hereford, HR1 2LX.

THAT:

Subject to written confirmation of Advantage West Midlands (AWM) funding, the Council undertake to purchase and manage Blueschool House, Blueschool Street, Hereford, in line with existing polices and AWM monitoring requirements.

Blueschool House is a critical element of the proposed Civic Quarter of the Edgar Street Grid development, occupying an important frontage to the Grid site and with the potential to become an iconic and visionary property, exemplifying the intentions of ESG Herefordshire Ltd.  The proposed Civic Quarter will primarily be a Public Sector led development and the purchase is recommended as the property lies within the boundaries of this development area.  Its acquirement will contribute greatly towards the construction of the land portfolio required to progress the Civic Quarter development site.

Exempt.