Agenda item

To receive a presentation under public participation concerning the direction of this project. The minutes of the expired Skate Park Working Party held on 22 January 2020 are included for information.

This item was moved up the agenda with the express permission of the Chair so that the member of the public present could hear the debate.

The Chair provided some background information to the skatepark and how Mr Pockett had expressed an interest in it.  She was keen to utilise his enthusiasm for the project.  Cllr Butterfield explained that he had been very involved with a skate group and had even spoken to some companies about designs.  In his opinion it was crucial to get more funding as most designers needed a budget to work to.  The Town Clerk advised that most companies would give a brief design and indicate pricing for free initially.  The project would need to go out to tender and adhere to the Council’s financial regulations.  If the Committee wished to form a working party, the Town Clerk asked that the Officers be kept informed so that members did not act ultra vires by not going through due process. 

The Town Clerk also pointed to the “Liven Up the Leys” campaign which had been successful – community involvement was essential.  The group had set up a bank account, for example.  She cautioned that this could be a lengthy process.

Members decided to delegate moving the project forward – finding out what was wanted and fundraising initiatives – to Cllr Butterfield, the Town Clerk and the Operations and Estates Officer.

RECOMMENDED:             that progression on this item be delegated to Cllr Butterfield, the Town Clerk and the Operations and Estates Officer.