• The Debden Centre Grade II listed building and campsite in Essex may be sold by Newham Council
• Council to concentrate resources on assets in the borough and safeguard essential services
• Fairplay House will continue to provide outdoor learning experiences for Newham’s children and young people
Newham Council’s Cabinet has agreed in principle to sell the Debden Centre and Campsite, subject to receiving an appropriate offer that meets the council’s financial and operational expectations, at its meeting on 5 November.
Debden House and Campsite comprises a long established touring and camping site, on the edge of Epping Forest of approximately 50 acres. The 19th century Grade II listed building is currently used as a conference centre.
Prior to the pandemic, the facility generated a small operating surplus most years, but in recent years costs have increased and additional money is now required to keep it in good order.
Councillor Sarah Ruiz, Statutory Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Sustainable Transport, Children’s Services and Education said: “In light of the current financial pressures on the council, and the need to focus resources on delivering key services to our residents, it is both prudent and necessary to review our position on Debden. While it has served us well, its continued operation is not sustainable without substantial investment. Furthermore, it is clear that the primary users of Debden are not Newham residents or schools, which diminishes the direct benefits to our borough.”
“The proposed sale offers an opportunity to realise a significant capital receipt, which will be used to reduce the council’s debt and safeguard essential services. At the same time, we will continue our commitment to Fairplay House, ensuring that our children and young people still have access to valuable outdoor learning experiences.”
The proposal is for the site to be put on the market in early spring 2025, with the hope of a concluding a sale towards the end of the summer 2025. This will allow time for current activities to be wound down in a managed way, and time for formal consultation with on-site staff, mostly part time, who have been kept fully informed of the proposals.
Because of the range of options, the property would be openly and widely marketed to ensure the best price is received upon sale.
