Decision details

That the Priory and former library, Church Hill, Orpington, be offered for sale on a long lease.

The Council’s aims include being an authority which manages its assets well, and Section 123 of the Local Government Act requires local authorities to secure the best consideration reasonably obtainable when they dispose of property. The Priory and former library building has been assessed to see whether alternative Council uses can be found – services considered included the Registrars’ Service and Electoral Registration. However, extensive internal modifications and an extension would be required, there would be considerable annual running costs and the accommodation is not as suitable as that already provided at the Civic Centre. Therefore, the feasibility studies undertaken show that it is not worthwhile for the Council to commit to the expenditure required and the property should be advertised for sale on the open market.