Issue details

A report to update Cabinet as to progress with the scheme to remodel Buxton House high-rise block, Huddersfield. It seeks authority from Cabinet to acquire key interests including the headlease and sublease interests relating to a property at Buxton House, Buxton Way and Albion Street to facilitate the remodelling scheme.

In addition, Cabinet authority is sought to begin the process leading to the Council making a Compulsory Purchase Order (“CPO"), in tandem with negotiating the acquisition of land interests, as a contingency measure.

Background papers: Previous Cabinet decision, 21 December 2022. Link to agenda, report and decision:

Decision - To consider the outcome of Tenant and Leaseholder consultation and Proposals on the future of four of the Council's high-rise blocks - Bishop's Court, Holme Park Court at Berry Brow and Buxton House and Harold Wilson Court to improve fire safety | Kirklees Council

Engagement:

Tenants of Buxton House and external stakeholders such as the West Yorkshire Fire Service and West Yorkshire Police Police were consulted on concept designs for the proposed remodelling scheme in August 2023.

Stakeholder feedback has been supportive of new proposals, and existing tenants have expressed an interest in returning to the remodelled scheme.

The proposed scheme reflects the main issues arising from this consultation period.

Consultation:

The Tenant Voice Panel is to be consulted on the 28^th February 2024.

The Homes & Neighbourhoods Improvement Board will have considered the proposals on the 13^th February, and Board comments will be reported to Cabinet.