Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources, and the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure proposing options for the provision of a car boot sale site at Hempsted Meadow and providing information about site constraints with how these can be managed.

RESOLVED that:

(1)       authority is given to the Property Commissioning Officer in consultation with the Markets and Green Spaces Officers, and the Cabinet Members for Policy & Resources and Culture & Leisure to undertake a competitive process to identify, award, and enter into legal agreements with the chosen operator to run the car boot sale at Hempsted Meadow

(2)       the car boot sale is operated as a seasonal provision due to physical site constraints from flooding and high water tables.

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources, and the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure that proposed options for the provision of a car boot sale site at Hempsted Meadow and provided information about site constraints with how these can be managed.

The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure reminded Members that the Gloucester car boot sale had been widely missed and of their commitment to bring it back. He advised that it was prudent to make it seasonal as Hempsted Meadow, despite being the best of the sites considered, was prone to flooding in the wettest parts of the year.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure stated that this measure would prolong the use of the site to the benefit of residents for many years to come, as would the prevention of damage by heavy vehicles.

The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources thanked the Property Commissioning Manager for navigating the complexities necessary to make the best of the proposed site.  She further noted that Hempsted Meadow would allow simultaneous opportunities for other short-term events such as fairs and open-air entertainments.  The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources commented that it was right that an independent property agent be used (3.8) so that the best operator can be appointed to the benefit of both Council and residents.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods noted that car boot sales are not only a good means for residents to get rid of unwanted items but are also cultural events that can promote good health and well-being.  The Cabinet Member for Environment reiterated that interest from residents in the matter was high.

RESOLVED that:

(1)       authority is given to the Property Commissioning Officer in consultation with the Markets and Green Spaces Officers, and the Cabinet Members for Policy & Resources and Culture & Leisure to undertake a competitive process to identify, award, and enter into legal agreements with the chosen operator to run the car boot sale at Hempsted Meadow

(2)       the car boot sale is operated as a seasonal provision due to physical site constraints from flooding and high water tables.