The Leisure Manager highlighted that the review had been renamed to “Making Maidstone More Active” in order to establish a common name for the work.  Additionally, this ensured that the objective of addressing health inequalities was referenced.  It was explained that the review consisted of two stages.  Stage One was a survey of all residents, while Stage Two included a series of forums.  The Leisure Manager concluded by stating that the report recommendations were to be amended to clarify that that a briefing note, outlining the initial results of the survey, was to be circulated to Members and Substitute Members of the Economic Regeneration and Leisure Committee.  This meant that a report on the outcome of the survey was to be considered by the Committee by the end of March 2020.

In response to questions from the Committee, the Leisure Manager replied that:

·  A collaborative working agreement, outlining shared objectives of the review, had been agreed with the Senior Public Health Officer at Maidstone Borough Council.

·  Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) were being engaged throughout the review, while GP surgeries were to be specifically targeted during Stage One to maximise survey responses.

·  Several Local Authorities had requested access to the review data, which had created further opportunities for collaborative working.

·  The funding for the review had previously been agreed by the Heritage, Culture and Leisure Committee to cover the operational costs of the review and a specific Leisure Officer role.

The Committee commented that it was possible to invite organisations to attend future committee meetings, in order to address Members on key topics.  Furthermore, site visits could be arranged to enhance understanding of best practice.

RESOLVED: That:

1.  The proposed delivery approach and timeline be agreed.

2.  An all-member workshop briefing, to inform all councillors of the review, be held by the end of January 2020.

3.  A briefing note be circulated to Members and Substitute Members of the Economic Regeneration and Leisure Committee outlining the initial results of the residents’ survey.

4.  A report be submitted to the ERL Committee by the end of March 2020 outlining the outcome of the residents’ survey.

Voting: Unanimous