Agenda item

To receive and consider the report of the Venue & Events Officer

The Venue and Events Officer presented report and highlighted the continued success of events, in particular the summer Tunes on the Square programme. Members noted it had seen a growing attendance throughout the season with positive feedback from attendees and local businesses, and increased bar revenue. It was further noted that the earlier start time had benefited both the Corn Exchange and neighbouring food premises through increased footfall and sales.

Members congratulated officers and staff on the success of the programme, with the Mayor reporting positive feedback regarding the professionalism and welcoming approach of the venues team.

Members welcomed proposals to explore evening cinema screenings and discussed opportunities to strengthen future marketing and promotion of the variety of events the Corn Exchange hosted.

In considering future major sporting events such as the Rugby World Cup 2027, Members asked that opportunities to screen matches be explored. Officers advised that uncertainties around tournament progression could make reserving the venue challenging and potentially result in lost booking income, however they agreed to investigate options.

A Member queried attendance figures against attendance targets however, it was noted that over half of the events listed had met or exceeded their target attendance. Members also discussed the provision of additional seating for outdoor events. Officers heard that storage limitations remained a constraint and noted that attendees were encouraged to bring their own folding chairs where required.

Resolved:

1.       That, the report be noted and;

2.      That, officers continue to explore options to maximise the venues event offerings.