Issue - meetings

Report of the Finance Team Manager

The Head of Finance presented the report to members.

It was debated whether the Cinema in the Park event would replace the Picnic in the Park event. Members were assured that due to an underspend last year, during 2022 both events be held, although due to the Jubilee Celebrations, the 2002 version of Picnic in the Park be known as the Queen’s Jubilee Celebration.

In a response to a question from Councillor M B Wyatt, the Leisure Services Team Manager advised the members that the one MVAS that was still working, would be funded by the Council, not by Special Expenses.

Members were advised that the underspend from Picnic in the Park 2021 be earmarked to support the delivery of Cinema in the Park 2022, which would be delivered as well as Picnic in the Park 2022 (as the Queen’s Jubilee celebration event). It was noted that budget being allocated to Cinema in the Park was to ensure that it remained affordable, as a privately run event would not make it accessible. It was also highlighted that any future events from 2023 onwards would be a decision for the working party at the right time, subject to what budget would be available at that time.

Councillor M Wyatt proposed that the committee have aspirations to hold the Picnic in the Park event in 2023, and members agreed, however with the added caveat that importance be stressed on planning events on a year by year basis, whilst keeping in mind the available budget.

The allocation of £25,000 towards an inclusive toilet was considered, however members felt they needed more specific information before it be agreed.

It was moved by Councillor M Wyatt, seconded by Councillor A Black that the Council aspired to hold a 2023 Picnic in the Park.

It was moved by Councillor J Geary, seconded by Councillor E Allman and

RESOLVED THAT:

1. The 2021/22 period 6 budget monitoring figures and the forecasted outturn be noted.

2. The proposal for the allocation of £25,000 from balances for an inclusive toilet be removed from consideration until a further report is provided to the working group

3. The committee has an aspiration to hold Picnic in the Park 2023.

RECOMMENDED THAT:

4.The earmarking of £16,000 underspend on the events budget towards funding the 2022/23 cinema event be recommended to Cabinet for approval.