Decision details

*RESOLVED –

1.   That a more commercial approach be taken to both the programming and the hiring of the Winding Wheel Theatre to reduce the financial subsidy provided to the venue.

2.   That alternative operational arrangements be put in place to support the commercial approach, including focussing opening hours around planned commercial events, and making changes to the availability of the venue for hire.

3.   That the proposed changes to fees and charges for room hire, equipment hire and staffing cost at the Winding Wheel Theatre, as detailed in Appendix B of the officer’s report, be approved for implementation from 1 April 2024.

4.   That authority be delegated to the Service Director for Leisure, Culture and Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, to apply appropriate negotiated fees for new activities and opportunities that are introduced during the period covered by the officer’s report.

REASON FOR RECOMMENDATIONS

The proposals have been brought forward to respond to the savings targets identified in the Budget Strategy Implementation Plan, which was approved in November 2023. This will enable the Council to work towards developing a balanced 2024/25 budget and MTFP, which will support the Council to continue to deliver against the vision and priorities set out in the Council Plan.