Members were reminded that the Asset Management Strategy 2014/15 was approved by the Asset & Enterprise Committee on 15 July 2014.  The report provided at that meeting set out the aims and objectives for the forthcoming year for the Council’s property asset portfolio.  An Action Plan Update appended to the report before Members set out the progress achieved on the more significant work flows.

The Strategy highlighted the entrepreneurial approach to the Council’s management of its assets and this objective was being adopted as opportunities arose.

A Member suggested that the multi-storey car park be added to the list of assets to consider its long term use and the Chair agreed it should be considered at the next Committee meeting.

It was proposed that a review of all buildings in the Council’s portfolio be undertaken.    Members suggested officers investigate two small parcels of land in the town centre which could be marketable, also any possible alternative use of the BT building behind the Old House.

Cllr Quirk MOVED and Cllr Sapwell SECONDED the recommendation within the report and it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY to note the update contained in the appendix to the report.

(Cllr Cloke declared a non-pecuniary interest in Bell Mead by virtue of being a Parish Councillor for Ingatestone and Fryerning).