After a thorough review, the Waveney Campus partners have unanimously agreed to re-start the Campus project. The resumption begins immediately.

An unintended consequence of the Boundary Committee for England’s review of local government was the impact on the progress of the Campus project. Although the project partners had planned for possible local government re-organisation, the Boundary Committee’s recommendations, published in July 2008, contained options that were unexpected.

The partners therefore acted prudently to suspend progress on the project while they consulted widely on the continuing need and viability of the Campus project. After careful consideration, and taking into account professional advice, the project partners have now approved the immediate resumption of the project.

Without prejudice to the outcome of the local government review, the local authorities that could yet play a role in the delivery of services to Lowestoft – Waveney District Council, Suffolk County Council, Norfolk County Council and Great Yarmouth Borough Council – together with the East of England Development Agency and the 1st East Urban Regeneration Company, are united in their support for the continuation of the Waveney Campus project.

The business case for Waveney Campus is based on the need for each of the current partner organisations – Waveney District Council, Cefas, and Suffolk County Council – to have modern, fit-for-purpose accommodation that will enable them to deliver improved services to their customers at better value for money. The building has been designed to meet the operational needs of each organisation.

The two councils intend to use their portion of the building as a base for the provision of public
services to the people of Lowestoft and North Suffolk. Council employees will represent the majority number of staff housed in the Campus.

In the future, the same or similar local government services will continue to be required, whatever authority or authorities are administering the area. None of the aforementioned authorities that could yet assume responsibility for Lowestoft have suitable alternative premises in the vicinity. So, the need for the Waveney Campus will remain post re-organisation. It is also acknowledged that the project will make a significant contribution to the regeneration plans being advanced by 1st East.

Cllr Wendy Mawer, Waveney District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration said: “The Local Government Review has created uncertainty and it was vitally important that all current and prospective partners took time out to consider their options. I am absolutely delighted, therefore, that all are unanimous in their commitment to the project and share the view that there remains a clear need for this facility in Lowestoft.”

The Campus project team will shortly submit a planning application and commence the procurement of the building.

For more information about Waveney Campus the project go to: www.waveneycampus.co.uk