Agenda item

With the express permission of the Chair, this item was brought up the agenda.

Members considered the report and supporting update as part of the Council’s ongoing review of the festival’s operation, funding arrangements and wider impact. In undertaking its due diligence, the Committee noted the information provided in relation to financial performance, community engagement, business benefits and the contribution the festival makes to visitor footfall and the local economy.

Members discussed the festival’s role in supporting the cultural life of the town and considered a request for an increase in annual funding, together with the potential for a longer-term funding commitment.

In considering the proposal, Members reviewed the implications of entering into a multi-year funding agreement, including the Council’s financial commitments, value for money considerations and the potential for similar events to be delivered by alternative organisers in the future.

Recommended:

1.       That, the report provided by Witney Music Festival be noted and,

2.       That, Witney Music Festival be awarded £12,500 annually from 2027, for a three-year term.