To note progress made on locality asset reviews (including the Hereford Accommodation Programme) and to endorse the proposed master plan and work programme within each locality including the accommodation solution for Herefordshire Public Services (HPS) back office staff in Hereford as part of the Hereford City locality.

THAT:

(a)      the progress made in developing the framework of the locality asset review be noted;

(b)      within the proposed framework any individual decisions should take into account the results of consultation and the impact of equalities and other issues;

(c)      the proposal to deliver a refurbished Plough Lane facility rather than extend the site be agreed; and

(d)      the options for partner organisations to be co-located at the Plough Lane site continue to be explored.

1              The accommodation and asset management plan developed for each locality identifies opportunities for services to co-locate as well as opportunities to dispose of properties no longer suitable for service delivery. Transforming the portfolio of public sector assets across the county seeks to improve outcomes for the local population within existing financial constraints.

2              The refurbishment of Plough Lane will enable the release of various properties.  This will assist the delivery of the Herefordshire locality master plan and improve service delivery.

1              The Locality Asset Review process identifies options to support a locality based approach to service delivery.  It is possible that alternatives may emerge as detailed delivery plans are developed.

2              The decision to purchase Plough Lane in 2009 signalled the commitment to bring together functions on a single site being delivered from several locations across Hereford.  The initial assessment in 2008 suggested that a significant enlargement of the capacity at the site would be needed.  This option is no longer appropriate given the changes delivered since the date of purchase.