asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether English Partnerships has found a buyer for Severalls Hospital near Colchester; what is currently the condition of the buildings and parkland on the site; what requirements they have for their maintenance; and how they intend to ensure that this heritage is conserved for the future. [HL666]

English Partnerships is in advanced negotiations with a preferred developer and will make an announcement when these are concluded. The buildings in English Partnerships’ ownership are largely occupied under leases and are maintained to an agreed standard. English Partnerships employs GVA Grimley, a major commercial agent, to manage the site on a day-to-day basis including arranging site security. The master plan for the entire site includes the retention of the listed building as well as some other existing buildings as part of the development. The design plan will incorporate the heritage aspects as well as retaining and enhancing the green space element. Design quality, public realm, open space and landscaping were all key issues in the development specification against which developers had to bid.