Decision details

The sale of land and property known as Public Convenience, South Hill, Woolley Moor (as shown edged red on the attached plan).

The toilet block is located between Ogston New Road and Ogston Reservoir, to the west of Severn Trent Water south car park, and is in a dilapidated state.

Cabinet on 9 January 2008 approved the closure of all Councils toilet blocks with effect from April 2008 as part of a wider efficiency review. It was discovered at that time the council did not have registered title to this toilet block. Title was applied for, and granted, however this just covered the footprint of the toilet blocks as the Council was unable to demonstrate exclusive possession of the surrounding land, which remains in Severn Trent Water (STW) ownership.

The property was acquired by way of adverse possession and is held under General Fund.

At its meeting on the 30 July 2025 Asset Management Board supported disposal of the property by auction.

The Council's approved RICS registered Auction provider, Eddisons, has advised that the property should be marketed at £500 with incremental increases of £250 to gauge interest. The Director of Estates, Property and Assets to be given delegated authority to set a reserve price prior closer to the auction date. This should ensure that the Council meets its legal obligations in respect of section 123 LGA 1972. The terms of the contract with the Auctioneer provide for a 1% Buyers Premium fee (subject to a minimum of £1500 plus vat) be charged on any sale.

The Property can be sold under S123 of the Local Government Act 1972 as the property is vacant and the disposal will be at market value.

In pursuit of the strategy A Great Place to Live Well.

The sale of the land will reduce a maintenance liability on the Council and secure a capital receipt which can be used towards priority projects

Bring the toilet block back into use in conjunction with STW management of Ogston Reservoir - this has been investigated and STW are not exploring development of the site for tourism.

Purchase an access from STW - STW are not willing to sell any land for access.

Demolish the toilet block and retain the land - not considered best value of money to the Council.

Transfer the toilet block to STW - not considered best value of money to the Council.