Sale of land in Wanstead

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13 December 2000

The Metropolitan Police Authority have decided to dispose of this land and, in order to maximise resources available for policing in London, have accepted the best offer available.

Under the 1972 Local Government Act Section 123, the MPA has a statutory duty to achieve ’best consideration’ when disposing of an asset which is in the interest of all Londoners.

The MPA had entered into dialogue with the London Borough of Redbridge about a solution that would have allowed us to fulfill our statutory duty as well as meeting the aspirations of the local community. Unfortunately the London Borough of Redbridge was unable to assist.

Nicholas Long, Chair of Estates sub group said:

“The Authority could no longer delay disposal of the land. In recent months, respecting local wishes, attempts were made with Redbridge Council to arrange a ‘land swap’ in order to overcome the Authority’s legal requirement to dispose of the land for the best price. Redbridge council were not prepared to enter into negotiations. Local MP Harry Cohen was kept informed of the attempted negotiations.

“Following a recent judicial review in Hackney, all public bodies have been reminded of the requirement to accept best offers. The Authority would have preferred to have arranged a land swap but Redbridge Council refusal to negotiate left us with no choice. “

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