Issue - decisions

1.  That the staffing structure changes identified in the Exempt Appendix to the report of the Director of Regeneration and Communities, subject to the appropriate consultation, be agreed and delegated authority be given to the Chief Executive to make minor changes, in consultation with the Leader.

2.  That the establishment of a new business team called Maidstone Culture and Leisure(MCL) under the Head of Commercial and Economic Development be agreed.

3.  That the principle of reducing the net cost of cultural and leisure services to the Council be agreed and delegated authority be given to the Director of Regeneration and Communities to progress the projects identified in paragraphs 1.3.7 – 1.3.9 of the report of the Director of Regeneration and Communities and, in particular, agree:-

(i)  The adaption of the current business plan for the Council’s museums, developing new ways to generate income.

(ii)  The establishment of a consolidated events programme with new and varied entertainment.

(iii)   The introduction of a leisure card to offer a range of discounts and promotions to both residents and visitors.

(iv)  The principle of a Mote Park adventure zone, subject to the necessary approvals and consents being achieved.

(v)  The possible provision of a new café and retail outlet for Mote Park to be considered as part of the Council’s capital programme.

(vi)  A review of parking demand and traffic management inside and outside Mote Park be undertaken including consultation with residents living adjacent to the park and park users
regarding both day to day arrangements and those put in place when events are held in the park.

4.  That full details of the various projects, with supporting business cases, for Maidstone Culture and Leisure be provided in future reports to the relevant Cabinet Member.