The Finance and Economic Overview and Scrutiny Committee of South Kesteven Council met on Thursday 27 June 2024. Key topics discussed included the Veterans Council Tax Discount Scheme, the Corporate Plan Key Performance Indicators, the construction of the new waste depot, the Grantham High Street Heritage Action Zone, the Economic Development Strategy, and the Grantham Future High Streets Fund.

Veterans Council Tax Discount Scheme

The committee debated the feasibility of a council tax discount scheme for veterans. Councillor Tim Whittington proposed including questions about the scheme in the upcoming consultation on the localised Council Tax Support Scheme for 2025-26. The proposal was not supported, and the committee decided to recommend no further work on the scheme. Councillor Richard Dixon-Warren, the Armed Forces Champion, expressed disappointment, highlighting the importance of supporting veterans.

For more details, see the Veterans Council Tax Discount Scheme - FEOSC - 27.06.24 FINAL.

Corporate Plan Key Performance Indicators

The committee reviewed the performance against the Corporate Plan Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 2020-23. Councillor Tim Harrison raised concerns about the accuracy of some KPIs marked as achieved. The committee acknowledged the need for more measurable and objective targets in the new corporate plan.

For more details, see the Corporate Plan 2020-23 Key Performance Indicators End-of-Plan and 202324 End-Year Q4 Report.

Construction of the New Waste Depot

The committee received an update on the construction of the new waste depot at Turnpike Close, Grantham. The project is currently in the detailed design phase, with value engineering completed to reduce costs. The committee requested more detailed financial information in future updates.

For more details, see the Depot Project Update Report FEOSC and the Depot Dashboard.

Grantham High Street Heritage Action Zone

The committee reviewed the completion report for the Grantham High Street Heritage Action Zone. The program successfully delivered shopfront and building regeneration projects, including significant restoration works to Westgate Hall. Challenges included restrictions on the rollover of underspend and the need for better community engagement.

For more details, see the Grantham High Street Heritage Action Zone Completion Report.

Economic Development Strategy

The committee discussed the progress update on the Economic Development Strategy for 2024-2028. A workshop for members is scheduled for 17 July 2024 to gather further input. The strategy aims to align with the Council’s Corporate Plan and address key economic goals.

For more details, see the Progress Update on Economic Development Strategy 2024 2028 final.

Grantham Future High Streets Fund

The committee considered the footfall activity in Grantham’s marketplace as part of the Future High Streets Fund. The data showed an increase in footfall compared to the previous year. The committee discussed various mitigation measures to support businesses during the ongoing works, including an extended events program and a voucher or loyalty scheme.

For more details, see the Grantham Future High Streets Fund Market Place Footfall Activity.

The committee also reviewed the work programme for 2024-2025, noting the inclusion of key reports and updates for future meetings.