I went to planning last night to see how the Committee would react to the Mechanics' question.
Labour Councillors for Central Ward Bob Wright and Junab Ali (also in his capacity as a member of planning) were in attendence.
To date there has been a total lack of response from the owner with reference to the Urgent Works Notice, issued on December 4th 2009 and followed up by a further letter. The Council will secure access to undertake the work required unless the owner can prove evidence of intention with a signed contract that the schedule of work will be completed. The Works Notice had been submitted on the basis of known requirements although Councillor Bob Wright reported that Mr Singh has had his own survey.
It is known there are workers presently on site and work undertaken but not believed to be in line with the vision held. Mr Singh has been in touch with Planning, Ward Councillors, Dave Potter - Chief Planning Officer, and Council Leader Rod Bluh about the design aspects of his work.
Councillor Bob Wright said the Ward Councillors and the local people should not be left out and consideration must be given to the vision for the local community.
The Planning Officer advised the onus for communication about the Works Notice was with Mr Singh. Negotiation has been ongoing for six months and explicit letters sent. There have been counter accusations from the owner, but action will be taken on the 20th of April if there is no contract in place and he stated the council was not prepared to wait any longer.
Councillor Brian Mattock expressed his anxiety to ensure the integrity of the building is maintained.
Councillor Doreen Dart said it had been 10 years since the last Councillor visit, the access of which was restricted due to safety issues. She said the staircase was beautiful and asked if it was still there? The answer was that it was and she insisted that it be protected.
Councillor Junab Ali asked how long the work covered by the Works Notice would last if no furtherwork was undertaken The Officer promised him an answer.
Councillor Steve Allsopp asked if risk management would affect the work and cost? This is a separate process and a comprehensive survey was carried out last November.
Councillor Vera Tomlinson said The Mechanics' was part of our heritage and too an important building to lose and work must be undertaken to prevent further deterioration.
The legal Officer said that Members were to vote but to note that action was being taken and recommendations will be made.
Councillor Doreen Dart requested that the whole planning committee visit the building and report back upon completion of the work.
If anyone else has anything to add to this or to correct me on any detail I look forward to reading it.
The next planning meeting is to be held on April 27th and this subject wll be reviewed
