Issue - meetings

Option A. To market a small number of IWC sites for “pop up” business for 2022 as a pilot scheme to inform a more comprehensive business case for the wider council portfolio in 2023.  The details of the pilot sites to be offered to be agreed by the Cabinet member for Regeneration, Business Development and Tourism.

The Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Business Development and Tourism explained that this was something that had been done successfully in Cornwall. It was for temporary businesses such as cycle hire, fitness classes, food stalls and would hopefully encourage businesses to come forward, particularly those starting up including sole trader wishing to show their entrepreneurial skills. It would also generate revenue for the council and would enrich the tourism and community offer. It was hoped to start marketing a pilot scheme in January 2022 for the coming season.

In response to a point raised by Corporate Scrutiny in supporting the initiative, it was confirmed that consultation would be held with Town and Parish Councils before deciding on the pilot sites.

Consideration was given to the report which sought the Cabinet’s approval to market a number of Council sites for pop-up businesses for 2022, as a pilot scheme to inform a more comprehensive business case for the wider Council portfolio in 2023. The report and proposals were supported, and discussion took place regarding the wording of the recommendation to reflect engagement and consultation with the relevant town and parish councils.

RESOLVED:

THAT the proposals be supported, and the Cabinet be requested to amend the recommendation to state that the sites to be offered should be in consultation with the relevant town and parish councils.