The Cobtree Manager presented her report providing an update on activities at the Cobtree Manor Estate during the period July-November 2019.  The report included details of:

·  Maintenance works, staffing issues, events, community activities and visitor numbers at Cobtree Manor Park;

·  The progress being made by Mytime Active with regard to the Golf Course development works;

·  The shortlisting of Kent Life for the Visit Kent Award for Best Large Attraction; and

·  Options identified by Planning Solutions to overcome problems being experienced with sewage removal from the Kent Life site.

In response to questions about visitor numbers at the Cobtree Manor Park, the Cobtree Manager advised the Committee that the vehicle counter had been functioning but with erratic results.  Despite analysis with   the manufacturer’s assistance there were too many anomalous figures to rely on the vehicle data as accurate and car park income was now being used to gauge visitor numbers.  It was suggested and agreed that the Officers be requested to look at alternative ways to record visitor numbers at the Manor Park.

With regard to events, and, in particular, the zoo memory day, it was suggested and agreed that the possibility of having QR code panels to enhance visitor experience should be looked into.

During the discussion on this item, the Officers undertook to take the opportunity to celebrate the success of Kent Life which had been shortlisted for the Visit Kent Award for Best Large Attraction.

RESOLVED:

1.  That the update on activities at the Cobtree Manor Estate during the period July-November 2019 be noted.

2.  That the Officers be requested to look at alternative ways to record visitor numbers at the Cobtree Manor Park.

3.  That the Officers be requested to look into the possibility of having QR code panels to enhance visitor experience.