Decision details

To approve the re-letting of 4 Stream Cottages, Forstal Road, Maidstone, following the surrender of the sub-lease by the tenant.

1.  That agreement be given to the re-letting of 4 Stream Cottages, Forstal Road, Maidstone on a minimum 22 year sub-lease following the surrender of the sub-lease by the tenant due to medical reasons.

2.  That the Head of Property and Procurement be authorised to agree heads of terms for the new sub-lease based generally on the provisions of the former sub-lease and that the Head of Legal Services be authorised to then complete the documentation.

Estate properties are let to maximise income for the Charity known as the Cobtree Manor Estate.  Every effort will be made to re-let 4 Stream Cottages as quickly as possible to ensure that there is a continued income from the property.

The sub-lease will be for a minimum period of 22 years to avoid any tenant acquiring the ‘right to buy’ which could then be exercised against the Council in its capacity as the long leasehold owner.

The alternative would be to sell the property. This is not considered appropriate as it would reduce the regular income received by the Charity over the long term.