The building, originally constructed as a fire station in the early 20th century and later housing public toilets, has been closed and unused since 2017. It requires significant investment before it can be brought back into use.
TDC has approved the freehold disposal of the property, allowing a proposed sale to a local resident to move forward. The prospective purchaser intends to operate a computer repair and maintenance business from the building, offering computer and IT support to the local community.
Councillor Peter Kotz, TDC’s Portfolio Holder for Assets and Community Safety, stated: “We are pleased to have taken a decision that allows the proposed sale of a Walton building that has stood empty for almost nine years to move forward. After several attempts to find a viable occupier, the proposed sale would provide an opportunity for the building to be refurbished and brought back into use, while removing an ongoing maintenance liability and achieving market value for taxpayers.”
Plans to demolish the building were previously paused in 2018 after residents raised concerns and a petition was considered, allowing more time for alternative uses to be explored. Despite several attempts to secure a viable tenant, none were successful. A further tender process earlier this year invited both leasehold and freehold proposals.
Following negotiations with the prospective purchaser, an agreement in principle has been reached at market value. The sale remains subject to the usual legal formalities.
