New agreement paves way for transformation of Peterborough 'eyesore' Bretton Court
A new move that could pave the way for the regeneration of Peterborough’s ‘eyesore’ Bretton Court has been given the green light.
Councillors have agreed Peterborough City Council should surrender its leases on the four-storey building, which has been allowed to become an eyesore over the last decade.
The action by members of the council’s ruling cabinet means that the building can now be sold to a developer.
Much of Bretton Court is boarded up and covered in graffiti and the surrounding land is overgrown.
The blame for the appearance has been put on an ongoing ownership dispute by the council and Cross Keys Homes, which had joint control over Medesham Homes.
Selling the two leases will allow the owner, Medesham Homes, to sell Bretton Court to a local developer, which has already made an offer for the premises.
Councillor Numan Ali Iqbal, cabinet member for growth and regeneration, said: “These steps will unlock the redevelopment of a prominent site in Bretton and will bring a premium payment for the council.
Cllr Zameer Ali said: “This has become an absolute eyesore for local people.
“I’ve always been baffled at the size of the space and that it was not being used.
“So I welcome this move - it is what the residents of Bretton deserve.
He added: “It is important that we move quickly on this matter.”
Cllr Angus Ellis, who is a former resident of Bretton, said: “This has been an eyesore for ages and I’m really pleased we are moving on with this to get the area developed rather than just leaving a boarded up building.”
Cllr Christian Hogg said: “This issue has been hanging about for too long.
“Let’s get it done, let’s get that building gone.”
“This is the right thing to do for Bretton and the wider community.”
Cllr Mohammed Jamil said: “In its heyday it was a bustling office space and with the shops all occupied.
“The building has been left sitting dormant for too long.
“There is a thriving shopping centre on one side of the road and then you look at this.
“Now is the opportunity to change that. Whoever picks this up must go at full speed.
Cllr Jamil added: "This may be a catalyst for bigger and better things to come for the area.”