Norfolk County Council transfers Wells Road land for Fakenham Cricket Club expansion

A town cricket club has been handed a valuable piece of land which will allow it to expand its offering for up-and-coming youngsters.

In August 2020, Norfolk County Council decided a plot of land it owned at Wells Road in Fakenham was surplus to its requirements, and instructed its director of property to dispose of it.

Following discussion with adjoining landowners, the authority decided its most advantageous option was to transfer the land to the adjacent owner, Fakenham Cricket Club, for recreational and amenity use.

It is believed this will allow the club to further develop its offering for younger players.

This recommendation went before the county council’s cabinet earlier this month on December 4, and was approved.

Cllr Jane James, the council’s cabinet member for corporate services and innovation, said: “I’m pleased that this little parcel of land is set to remain in community and recreational use and will help Fakenham Cricket Club to further develop their offer for younger players.

“We keep all our assets under regular review to ensure we’re getting best value and use from each site.

“Where land or buildings are no longer needed for the services we deliver we will look to dispose of property – which can see sites finding a range of new uses, such as a transfer for use by other public sector partners, or for housing with care, or re-development to support jobs and growth.”

The deal was passed with clawback and overage clauses which will allow the council to jointly benefit from any future planning gain or profit on sale of the site.

A report put to cabinet said the director of property considered the deal “the most pragmatic and best financial outcome for the council as it will relieve the council of future maintenance and legal liabilities for the site”.