THE future of the Stratton Stores and Post Office could be secure for the immediate future if the planned purchase of the building is completed.

Bude-Stratton Town Council has been at the centre of criticism from some local figures over the decision to sell the building, which they purchased in 2023 with the intention of saving the post office from closure.

It was later put back up for sale as the council deemed it financially unviable for it to undertake the works needed to renovate the property.

Bude-Stratton Town Council has now confirmed that they had sought clarification on the position of the building after an application to register the property as an asset of community value was submitted to Cornwall Council.

If the bid to register it as an ACV had been successful, it would have meant Bude-Stratton Town Council would have had to delay the sale.

It would have allowed a six-week window for community groups to express interest, triggering a delay in proceedings of up to six months to raise funds and prepare a bid.

However, Cornwall Council later confirmed that it did not meet the criteria, meaning the town council could proceed with its planned sale.

A spokesperson for Bude-Stratton Town Council said: “Following the council’s statement on July 31 regarding the proposed sale of 1 Lords Court, the prospective purchaser subsequently revised their offer following a survey of the property.

“An Extraordinary Full Council Meeting was held on September 7 to consider the revised position. At that meeting, councillors resolved to adjourn consideration of the matter while further information was obtained, including clarification of the position regarding a nomination for the property to be listed as an Asset of Community Value (ACV).

“Cornwall Council subsequently confirmed that 1 Lords Court did not meet the criteria for listing as an Asset of Community Value and that there were no further outstanding ACV nominations relating to the property.

“Before the adjourned matter returned to Full Council, a second offer for the property was received. Both prospective purchasers were asked to submit their best and final offers through the Council’s appointed agent.”

Bude-Stratton Town Council confirmed which bidder it had chosen, continuing: “At the reconvened Extraordinary Full Council Meeting on Thursday, September 17, councillors considered the two best and final offers and the information provided in relation to each. Councillors resolved to accept the offer from the prospective purchaser with whom the Council had previously been in negotiations.

“As part of their best and final offer, the prospective purchaser confirmed in writing their intention to offer the existing Stratton Stores and Post Office a new 15-year lease, to support continuity and long-term stability.

“The proposed sale will now proceed through the legal conveyancing process and remains subject to completion. As the transaction remains a live commercial matter, the council is unable to provide further details regarding the purchaser or terms of the sale at this stage.

“A further update will be provided when the council is in a position to do so.”