§ Matthew GreenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to his answer of 17 March 2003,Official Report, column 530W, on Land Sales (Ashford), what the potential clawback in the sale of part of Ashford barracks to the Westbury Homes and Wimpey consortium was; and if he will make a statement. [104629]
§ Dr. MoonieTemplar & Rowcroft (Ashford) Barracks was sold to Westbury Homes and Wimpy Homes in April 2002 following a public competition. Full market value was achieved based on the site's allocation for residential and commercial development as set out in the adopted Ashford Local Plan 2000.
I regret that my earlier answer of 17 March 2003, Official Report, column 530W, which referred to a clawback arrangement, was incorrect. The actual position is that £1 million was retained by the purchaser subject to no additional cost arising for clearance of contamination and noise issues. The payment of the retained sum is now subject to negotiation between the Ministry of Defence and the purchaser.