Strong Developer Interest In Civic Centre Site
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Civic boundary image |
The London Borough of Bexley set out the vision for its Bexley First programme
at a briefing today for developers who have registered an interest in the redevelopment
of the site of the Bexley Civic Offices.
“Today’s briefing allowed developers to get a better insight
into the scope of this major regeneration opportunity, discuss proposed uses
and the next stages in the developer selection process,” Cllr
Colin Campbell said today.
Over 40 developers and professional advisors, registered in the competitive
dialogue process, were invited to a briefing with Cllr Campbell, the lead
Cabinet member for Bexley First and Council officers.
Cllr Campbell emphasised that the site provides a unique opportunity to
revitalise the town centre, through a new high quality, environmentally sustainable
building with modern Council facilities that will transform the management
and delivery of Council services.
“With potential for new shops, restaurants, leisure facilities, business
opportunities and residential units, the development will enhance the town
centre and the Borough as a vibrant place to visit, shop, live and work.
“Proposed uses were identified in the Bexleyheath Civic Offices Planning
Brief, circulated for community consultation in July 2007,” Cllr Campbell
said.
“The competitive dialogue process, now well underway, means the London
Borough of Bexley can benefit from a range of experienced developers’ innovative
development and design solutions.
“When deciding on the submissions, our fundamental criteria will be
to ensure a quality design that will enable the most effective delivery of
community services and value for money for local taxpayers, whilst providing
a new civic heart for Bexley in which local people can take pride,” said
Cllr Campbell.
The Bexley First Development Opportunity Brief, handed to developers today,
provides a summary of the programme vision and objectives and sets out some
key milestones in the developer selection process.
On the current indicative timetable, residents have the opportunity to review
the final short listed design schemes at a public exhibition in January 2009.
More detailed information on this exhibition will be released later in the
year.
“Following the Council decision on the successful developer, residents
will be invited to participate in the consultation process on the final design
development application, which is likely to start in Spring 2009.
“Interested residents can visit the Council’s website at www.bexley.gov.uk/bexleyfirst to
view information on the Bexley First Programme,” Cllr Campbell said.
