Back in 2013, Hartlepool Borough Council borrowed and then spent £1.56m on acquiring the former Jackson's Landing site.  At the time, the council was criticized for doing so as there was "no specific use " identified for the site.  (Read more at: http://www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/news/local/hartlepool-council-is-new-owner-of-the-derelict-jacksons-landing-for-1-5m-1-6262340

Now, the proposal is to spend a further £40,000 on demolishing the site, again with "no specific use" in mind.  This disgraceful waste of public money must not be allowed. 

The council cites 'unnamed developers' as saying the site is unworkable with the building in place as the main reason for demolishing it.  However, none of those developers are prepared to 'sign on the dotted line' to confirm this. 

Indeed, it is believed that there are developers interested in making the site work as a mixed retail, leisure and hospitality site - ALL WITHIN THE CURRENT BUILDING. 

However, let's get real about this! Do you honestly think that a developer who would be prepared to spend upwards of £5m acquiring the site from Hartlepool Council and then developing it, would really be put off by £40,000 demolition costs ?  Hardly likely. 

Therefore, we request that Hartlepool Borough Council stops this madness and does not rush into demolishing Jackson's Landing as intended w/b 12 September 2016.  This is a squander of tax-payers money and should not be allowed.  The site should be marketed appropriately and all options on its future use given full and respectful consideration.

This petition will be presented by myself (Cllr Paul Thompson) to the Full Council Meeting on Thursday 8 September 2016 at 7pm.  All members of the public are entitled to attend and see democracy in action, well Hartlepool style. 

Speak up, sign up and stop this waste of YOUR money.