Compulsory powers sought for major development in Ripon
PLANS
to make sure that land is available for the major redevelopment of West of the Market Place in Ripon have taken another significant step.
Whilst negotiations are continuing with landowners, Harrogate Council felt that compulsory purchase powers needed to be sought to avoid undue delay and the publication of the Harrogate Borough Council (Land West of the Market Place, Ripon) Compulsory Purchase Order has now taken place.
This step will also ensure that the council can deal with two parcels of land needed for the scheme where the owners can't be traced.
Details have been placed on the site as well as advertised in the local press.
The Order allows parties to make representations to the Deputy Prime Minister and First Secretary of State by 26 September.
All known owners and interested parties affected by the scheme have been sent details.
Progress beyond that date depends on whether representations are made.
Planning permission has been granted to Maple Grove Developments Limited for five retail units (including a new supermarket), office and leisure use, 32 apartments and a 185 space car park.
A new link road will also be created from Blossomgate to Coltsgate Hill.
Costing £950,000, this new link road, which is a vital part of the proposed development, will be funded by North Yorkshire County Council (£800K), Harrogate Borough Council (£100K) and Ripon City Partnership (£50K).
Commenting on the publication of the Compulsory Purchase Order, Councillor Mike Gardner, Leader of Harrogate Borough Council, said:
"We are still hopeful that all land transactions can be agreed to allow a start on site in early 2006.
But if there are outstanding interests in land needed for the development, seeking compulsory purchase powers will limit delay should negotiations fail.
"This development is of prime importance to the City of Ripon and therefore to Harrogate Borough Council.
Although we do not lightly seek compulsory purchase powers, we feel that we must lend this development every support we can.
Many of the landowners have already entered into agreement with the developers and we are hopeful that this will be the case in all instances.
But by seeking the approval of the Secretary of State for CPO powers, we will be ready if they should be needed,"
ENDS
FURTHER INFORMATION:
Councillor Mike Gardner is available for comment on 01423
500600 ext 6299 or via Lynne Mee, Communications and Media Manager on 01423 556022.
Further technical information is available from Mr Bernard White, the council's Project Manager on 07767 634608.