The Economic Development Manager submitted a report recommending for approval the development of two new industrial units on land owned by the Council at Calow Lane Industrial Estate.

The Council’s existing commercial property portfolio includes 269 industrial units which were at 97% occupancy, providing the Council with a substantial income stream that contributed to the costs of the delivery of its services. The Economic Development service promotes both Council and privately-owned industrial units to potential businesses; an analysis of the number of enquiries received by the service for different sizes of industrial premises had demonstrated a need for units of less than 5000 sq. ft.

A site for the proposed development had been identified at Calow Lane Industrial Estate. Initial surveys had been undertaken at the site and no issues had been highlighted, however the coal mining assessment had suggested carrying out a more detailed coal mining study due to the coal seams in the vicinity. This study had been commissioned.

Indicative costs for the development of the units were included in paragraph 3.16 of the officer’s report and further details on the funding for the project were included in section 6 of the officer’s report, along with the profiled revenue income to be generated by the units.

*RESOLVED –

1.    That the proposals to develop two new industrial units (subject to planning) on the site at Calow Lane Industrial Estate, Calow Brook Drive, Chesterfield, be approved subject to the outcome of a detailed coal mining assessment.

2.   That the funding to develop the two new industrial units, as detailed n paragraph 3.16 of the officer’s report, be approved to enable the delivery of the project.

3.   That the scheme be included in the updated Capital Programme for approval by Full Council.

REASON FOR DECISIONS

The Council has the opportunity to invest in its industrial portfolio to create new industrial units on a site in its ownership. This will allow the creation of much needed employment space and allow the Council to generate a revenue income. In addition, by speculatively developing new industrial units, the Council is demonstrating to the local economy that the climate is right for investment and acting as a market maker for future

developments.