Decision

1. 1

Members of the committee considered a report of the Executive Director Neighbourhood Services seeking approval to establish a Markets Strategy Task and Finish Group to support the implementation of the Markets Strategy 2026-2031. The group will provide member oversight, strategic guidance and constructive challenge throughout the delivery of the first-year implementation programme, helping to ensure alignment with Council priorities, stakeholder expectations and the long-term objectives of the strategy. The report also seeks

approval of the accompanying Terms of Reference and the nomination of one member from each political group represented on the Environmental Services and

Regulations Policy Committee.

1. 2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Environmental Services and Regulation Policy Committee:

a)    Approves the establishment of a Markets Strategy Task and Finish Group in line with the draft Terms of Reference.

b)    Agrees to provide political oversight, strategic guidance, and ongoing challenge throughout the delivery of the 12 month implementation action plan of the Markets Strategy 2026-2031. This will ensure alignment between member priorities, operational delivery, and community expectations.

c)    Approves the draft Terms of Reference of the Group attached at Appendix A. Nominate one representative per political group represented on the Environmental Services and Regulation Policy Committee to serve on the Group. The Task and Finish Group will provide political oversight, strategic guidance and constructive challenge throughout the implementation of the Markets Strategy 2026-2031 and its associated action plan.

1. 3

Reasons for Decision

1. 3.1

The Task and Finish Group will bring together a small, focused group of members to provide political oversight, strategic guidance, and ongoing challenge throughout the delivery of the Markets Strategy, ensuring alignment between member priorities, operational delivery, and community expectations.

1. 3.2

It will allow the nomination of task and finish group members with particular specialisms that will support the delivery of the first 12 month priorities of the markets strategy.

1. 4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

1. 4.1

Not having a task and finish group. This was rejected as the input from political members is essential. It also allows members, or non members, with particular specialisms to be nominated to work in the group. This approach was particularly helpful in enabling members with specialist knowledge and experience of markets and town centre developments to contribute to the review process. The same benefits are expected through the proposed group.