Decision details

Summary

The Finance and Assets Portfolio Holder presented a report on Section 106 Design Works at Stramongate Kendal. The report informed Members that the Council had sought approval for expenditure of Section 106 (S106) monies received from the Sainsbury’s development on Shap Road to deliver a public realm project that had been designed to increase visitor footfall to Stramongate and increase the accessibility of the area to pedestrians and cyclists.

The S106 funding agreement stated that funding must be used towards Town Centre Improvement Contribution, meaning the sum of £208,000 be used by the Council to fund improvements in the Northern Approach from Kendal Railway Station to Kendal Town Centre. Due to indexation the Council received a total of £224,043.85 from the Developer, Morbaine.  In addition, Kendal Town Council made a contribution of £22,000 which gave the Council a budget of £246,043.85 which had been agreed by Council on 18 May 2022 as part of the revised Capital Programme.

The report highlighted the proposals, including a high quality natural stone paved surface being created on the entrance to Stramongate, while still allowing left-turning vehicles from Blackhall Road. The inclusion of small trees provided a more pleasant shopping and visitor environment.

Although the project delivery budget was limited and currently only enables a small scheme to be developed, it was felt that the project could demonstrate how the use of good quality natural materials can bring benefits to business, residents and visitors, providing an example of the future ambitions for the town’s public realm.

Members expressed their support for the proposals, noting the importance of Stramongate to Kendal as home of the weekly market.

Decision

RESOLVED – That

(1)        the expenditure of up to £246,043.85 comprising £224,043.85 of Section 106 monies and £22,000 Kendal Town Council contribution, to deliver a street scape project at Stramongate, Kendal as previously agreed as part of the revised Capital Programme considered at Council on 18 May 2022 be approved; and          

(2)        authority be delegated to the Lead Specialist Legal Governance and Democracy (Monitoring Officer) [in consultation with the relevant Cabinet member/Leader] to agree terms and enter into a Section 278 agreement with Cumbria County Council to give effect to recommendation (1) and as detailed in section 3 of this report.

Reasons for the Decision

The proposals link to the Council Plan Priorities of:-

Delivering a balanced community – understanding the needs of local businesses by creating an attractive gateway towards the town centre; and

Addressing the climate emergency – by developing town centres which are attractive and accessible for living, working and leisure.

Alternative Options

Alternative option would be not to grant approval of the expenditure and the S106 money received would be returned to the Developer (Morbaine).