VERBAL UPDATE
Minutes:
Kathy McArdle, Service Director Regeneration and Culture, provided an update during which Members were informed of progress made in relation to lettings, to potential opening dates for other secured tenants together with details of a number of interested operators for available units.
It was noted that progress was being made with regard to the mix of retail, leisure and social use and reference was also made to the use of various units by the NHS.
Information was also provided in relation to the planning for the opening of the Cinema complex and about the success of recent activities within the Glassworks ‘square’.
In the ensuing discussion, particular reference was made to the following:
· The current position with regard to the future development proposals for the wider Town Centre and the consideration of the development of a town centre strategy particularly within the context of a national change in the retail landscape
· The proposals to undertake a post investment appraisal and to develop a strategy/proposal to ensure that the Glassworks and town centre remained fit for the future and meet long term and developing needs and aspirations
· The work of the Events Team was noted and their hard work was welcomed. Kathy McArdle commented that there was an ongoing marketing and communications plan, but it was noted that proposals were in hand to improve the communications strategy further for such events. Details of the marketing strategy could be shared with Members
· Work was ongoing to try to ensure that any empty stalls within the market were occupied or repurposed
· Reference was made to the footfall within the town centre and Kathy McArdle stated that performance data on this could be provided
RESOLVED that the update be noted.