Lead Member: Councillor Roger Evans, Portfolio Holder for Finance

Lead Officer: Steve Law, Head of Property & Development

RESOLVED

To declare St Andrews, Shifnal (in accordance with the red line plan detailed in Appendix 1) surplus to requirements and approve its disposal as a non-core asset.

To delegate authority to the Head of Property and Development, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, to take all necessary steps to progress disposal, including title resolution, determination of the appropriate disposal strategy and completion of the sale in accordance with the Council’s constitutional and legal requirements.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance presented the report seeking approval to declare St Andrew’s, Shifnal, surplus to requirements and authorise its disposal as a non-core asset. The previous leaseholder surrendered the lease in May 2025 and, following consideration through the Community Asset Transfer process, retention of the building was not considered viable. Disposal of the asset would provide a capital receipt to support the Council’s future investment priorities.

A concern was raised regarding the loss of a community facility in a growing town and the perceived lack of partnership working with Shifnal Town Council; and that financial pressures should not override the need to protect valued local facilities.

It was confirmed that the property had been offered to Shifnal Town Council through the Community Asset Transfer process at nil consideration, and that extensive discussions had taken place. The Town Council had commissioned its own condition survey and subsequently decided not to proceed with the transfer due to the building’s condition. Officers confirmed that no further requests had been received following the conclusion of that process. Cabinet also noted the Council’s financial position and the Government’s expectation that surplus assets should be disposed of where appropriate to reduce borrowing requirements.

Cabinet agreed that, given the building’s poor condition and lack of a viable community transfer proposal, the asset should be declared surplus and disposed of.

RESOLVED

To declare St Andrews, Shifnal (in accordance with the red line plan detailed in Appendix 1) surplus to requirements and approve its disposal as a non-core asset.

To delegate authority to the Head of Property and Development, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, to take all necessary steps to progress disposal, including title resolution, determination of the appropriate disposal strategy and completion of the sale in accordance with the Council’s constitutional and legal requirements.