Decision details

Council considered a report by the Place Manager, Economic Development and Regeneration (circulated previously) regarding an update on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

In response to a question, the Chief Executive advised Council that it was originally anticipated that the public toilets would be re-opened at the Barnstaple bus station by Easter.  Following conversations with Webbers regarding marketing the café at the bus station, it was considered that a larger scheme would be more appropriate rather than the original simple scheme.  A new scheme had now been drawn up and was currently out for tender.  Webbers were still marketing the café and the new toilets would be provided along with the café as soon as possible.

It was moved by Councillor Worden and seconded by Councillor Crabb “that the recommendations in the report be adopted.”

In response to questions, the Place Manager, Economic Development and Regeneration advised Council of the following:

·       That in relation to the Rural Grants Programme, North Devon+ were administering this grant scheme who had a lot of experience in this type of grant scheme.  They would be undertaking a lot of promotion work which would include contacts from previous Leader+ schemes.  It was acknowledged that the timetable had slipped slightly.

·       There was a need to be careful to ensure that funding for farming was not provided through this Fund if it was already provided through other Defra funding schemes.  The Northern Devon Biosphere Reserve was also undertaking a lot of work with farming communities.

·       Following the taster engagement event that had taken place at Arlington Court in relation to the development of a Heritage Construction Skills Hub, a follow up meeting had taken place with Leads for lead and carpentry skills.  The next stage would be to hold discussions with Petroc regarding arranging bespoke heritage training event.  Work would also take place to create an online presence to encourage new entrants for bespoke heritage skills.

Council thanked the Place Manager, Economic Development and Regeneration and her team for their work.

RESOLVED that:

(a)  The progress towards delivering the 3 year Investment Plan and associated projects contained within it be noted; and

(b)  The proposed publicity activity be approved.