Issue - meetings

1.

Title of Item/Report

Powering our Future - Regeneration Mission - Town Hall and Debenhams

2.

Record of the Decision

Consideration was given to a report that provided an update on the Powering Our Futures Regeneration mission delivery of the Central Stockton and North Thornaby Blueprint. The report included future opportunities for use of existing assets in Stockton town centre which were deferred at the July Cabinet meeting.

In July 2024, Cabinet approved a Blueprint which set out an exciting and innovative vision for the future development of Central Stockton and North Thornaby areas. The blueprint outlined transformational change over the next 25 years by creating prosperous, vibrant places, fit for future generations by delivering modern, mixed-use neighbourhoods and a thriving town centre, helping to make sure it was a safe and welcoming place where people want to work, live and visit. It focused on eight key intervention areas in Central Stockton and North Thornaby which were illustrated within the report.

The report provided an update on interventions to support retail in Stockton Town Centre and commercial opportunities for existing Council land and assets including the following:-

- Stockton Waterfront

- Town Centre Living

- Stockton Town Hall

- Debenhams

- Small Business Space

It was proposed that the final allocations between the three schemes be delegated to the Director of Regeneration & Inclusive Growth in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Resources and Transport to develop a business case and designs for potential future uses.

RESOLVED that the previously agreed allocation of £6.5m be delegated to the Director of Regeneration and Inclusive Growth in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Resources and Transport to:

a.         Undertake works associated with Stockton Town Hall to bring it back into active use.

b.         Create an enabling budget to develop options and engage the market in opportunities to bring the former Debenhams building back into occupation.

c.         Upgrade Council owned shops in Stockton town centre to create spaces suitable for small businesses.

3.

Reasons for the Decision

To enable delivery of the projects and programmes within the Regeneration Powering Our Futures Mission.

4.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None

5.

Declared (Cabinet Member) Conflicts of Interest

None

6.

Details of any Dispensations

None

7.

Date and Time by which Call In must be executed

Midnight, 26 September 2025