Agenda item

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

The Committee received a report from the Venue and Events Officer (VEO).

The VEO advised that an Art Display Policy had now been drafted. Members considered the policy and proposed an amendment to the honesty commission on sales feeling that 10% was more appropriate, in recognition of the requirement for the Council to charge VAT. The amendment was unanimously agreed.

The VEO also presented details of the proposed 1 in 200 Local Author scheme. He reported that a positive meeting had been held with the organisers and that the Corn Exchange would be the only venue in Witney to stock the books. A dedicated, clearly defined zoned area would be created for the display and the sale of books.

Members noted that there would be no cost to the Council for hosting the bookcase, that administration required from Corn Exchange staff would be minimal and that books would be rotated on a quarterly basis. It was further suggested that an Authors Day could be introduced, providing an opportunity for local authors to attend, promote the scheme, and engage with the community.

Members expressed enthusiasm for both the Art Policy and the 1 in 200 schemes, commenting that these initiatives would bring energy to the Corn Exchange.

With regard to proposed hearing loop improvements, Members agreed that a future-proofed scheme should be pursued and requested that all available grant and funding opportunities be fully explored to provide this equipment in all areas.

In response to a Member question, it was confirmed that there had been no uptake on the seating sponsorship scheme. Officers advised that they would continue to highlight the scheme.

Following discussion on the report the Town Clerk read a letter of appreciation that she had received from a visitor to the town which praised its facilities and appearance.

Recommended:

1. That, the report be noted and,
2. That, the Local Art Display Policy be recommended for approval by the Policy, Governance & Finance Committee, subject to the amendment introducing a 10% honesty commission and,
3. That, the 1 in 200 local author scheme be supported and progressed.