Bretton Court and Medesham Homes
There has been commentary in the media and on social media about the council's role in the redevelopment of Bretton Court.
We are aware of the issues being experienced and are determined to get the best deal for residents.
We are also aware that this is a complex matter and as a result there is some misinformation circulating. The following answers some of the main questions we are receiving.
What is the council and Cross Keys Homes doing to tidy up the mess at this site?
Through Medesham, the council and Cross Keys Homes, as equal partners in Medesham, are responsible for maintaining Bretton Court. We continue to manage the site to keep it secure and respond to all reports of vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
MYTH: It is the council's fault that Bretton Court is still to be developed.
FACT: This is a complex matter to resolve as the land and buildings are owned by a jointly owned company called Medesham Homes (by PCC and CKH) and there have been delays caused on both sides by the Council and Cross Keys Homes due to a whole variety of matters. We accept that the council changed its intention last summer to retain Pleasure Fair Meadow car park as part of the Medesham discussions. As a result it has been necessary to undertake further legal checks to deliver the best strategy for the Council and CKH from this arrangement that is legally correct and financially best value for the Council Tax Payer.
Furthermore, Cross Keys Homes indicated that they wished to see ownership of Laxton Square sorted out in advance of these negotiations processing and unfortunately there have been significant and unavoidable delays on this due to legal conditions on that land. This matter has now been resolved and was approved by Cabinet at its meeting on 4 March, and we are hopeful negotiations relating to Medesham can now proceed at pace.
MYTH: The council wanted to take on Bretton Court when the Medesham arrangement ended.
FACT: It was Cross Keys Homes' desire for the council to take on Bretton Court when the council leaves the Medesham partnership.
MYTH: The council is not willing to get round the table with Cross Keys Homes on this matter.
FACT: We have been corresponding since last year with Cross Keys Homes on this matter and we continue to negotiate for a solution that delivers value for money to taxpayers and secures the redevelopment of Bretton Court.
MYTH: The council is deliberately dragging its heels in resolving this matter.
FACT: This is a complex matter to resolve and there have been delays caused by both the council and Cross Keys Homes. The complex structure of Medesham Homes means this is taking longer than anyone wanted or expected. We hope to move this project forward quickly both for the good of Bretton and the city.