THE future use of the former candle factory site in Christchurch edged a step closer to becoming a reality, although what this entails remains unknown.

Members of Christchurch Borough Council's resources committee have recommended to full council that the authority accepts the most "economically advantageous tender" from a consultation process for the town centre location.

Discussions on the candle factory site were held in private at the recent committee meeting.

A report outlining the tender process and history of the Bank Close land was publicly available before the meeting, although financial details of the tenders were contained in a confidential item.

It is estimated the land is worth £200,000 if planning permission for two homes was obtained for the site.

Full council is due discuss the recommendation before reaching a decision at a meeting on July 10.

The Daily Echo asked Christchurch Borough Council for clarification on why the whole agenda item was discussed in private.

Councillor Peter Hall, chairman of the resources committee said: “The Local Government Act 1972 allows councils to hold debates in private session where it is deemed as necessary. On this occasion committee members wished to discuss references to an exempt appendices whilst debating the recommendations and therefore took a vote to take this item in closed session.

“Christchurch Borough Council’s resources committee aim to promotes open and transparent decision making whenever possible and when published, the minutes from this meeting item will be public.”