Decision

RESOLVED that Cabinet:

1. 1) agreed to proceed with the Filming in Hertsmere – Creative Futures Programme Pilot as set out in Appendix 1.
2. 2) agreed funding for £13,000 be approved for the October 2026 cohort, as set out in section 6 of the report.
3. 3) That subject to the success of the scheduled pilot, that Cabinet agreed additional funding of £13,000 for the February 2027 cohort be approved.

Reasons for decision

The programme will strengthen opportunities for young people across the borough through targeted engagement with the creative industries by supporting skills development and future employment pathways. It will provide a tangible community benefit from the Council’s expanded Filming in Hertsmere function, separate from studios activities, while enabling the impact to be tested through a pilot before considering longer term initiatives.

Alternative Options Considered

Cabinet could have decided not to agree to proceed with the programme, this would mean that additional youth targeted creative industries support across Hertsmere would not be provided.