Issue details

As part of the Surrey Homes for Surrey Children Strategy it was agreed that a programme of purchasing up to 9 homes be established to convert into new Children’s Homes for Surrey children.  Cabinet agreed to the proposal and Corporate Programme Panel approved the methodology for managing the programme and purchase of properties.

The programme has been progressing to identify, assess and consider suitable properties across Surrey, and currently there are two homes under offer- in Camberley. 

This home will operate as a 3 bed home for children at risk of criminal exploitation.

The appropriate teams have carried out due diligence checks and the decision is to proceed with the purchase of the property identified in Camberley. 

During the due diligence process a number of covenants were identified on the Camberley property.  This is not uncommon on larger houses in Surrey.  At this they relate to not carrying out any trade or business, using as a private dwellinghouse and restricting removal of trees or shrubs.  These have been investigated and the risks assessed and mitigated.

There will also be a need to change the planning designation of the property from C3- Dwelling House to C2- Residential Institution.  This will require a planning application to be determines.  If this application is not successful, the property would need to be re-sold.  Although the sale income would revert to the overall programme there would be some loss to the the council as Stamp Duty Land Tax and fees incurred in the acquisition would not be recoverable.

The assessed risks and mitigations have been considered by CLT and approval given to proceed with the purchase.