The Monitoring Officer to present her report in relation to the request from Councillors Darling (M) and Pentney in relation to the Screen on the Green.

The Monitoring Officer presented her report on the decision making in respect of the Screen on the Green and other issues which had been raised by Councillors Darling (M) and Pentney.  It was noted that there had been some confusion on the decision making process with respect to the Mayor’s Events Fund but that revised arrangements where now being put in place.

Resolved:  that the Assistant Director – Community and Customer Services be requested to present the revised governance arrangements in respect of events once her review is completed.

In accordance with Standing Order D13, to receive the following request from Councillors Darling (M) and Pentney for an item to be considered by the Overview and Scrutiny Board:

“Whilst we welcome this innovation in Torbay a number a questions surface in light of the Screen on the Green. 

1.     We understand that Councillor Morris has received a £10,000 grant from the Council to provide the Screen on the Green.  Why was such an innovation not put out to open tender? 

2.     We understand that prior to being elected as a councillor Mr Morris put such a proposal forward previously.  Why was this request denied? 

3.     What claw back provisions are there within the grant for any profit made from this venture?    

4.     There is a prohibition on illuminated advertising on Torre Abbey Meadow.  How has this been circumvented?”

The Board to determine whether it wishes to request officers to prepare a full report on the matter for submission to a future meeting.

The Board considered a request from Councillors Darling (M) and Pentney for an item to be considered at a future meeting of the Board in relation to “The Screen on the Green”.

Resolved:  that the Assistant Director – Corporate Services be requested to prepare a report answering the questions identified by Councillors Darling (M) and Pentney plus the following points raised at the meeting:

·         What are the implications of the covenant on Torre Abbey Meadows for this attraction and future attractions?

·         Was there a business case for the proposal showing the financial and community benefits?  If so, can a copy of the Business Plan be shared with the Board?

·         What is the decision making process for agreeing to hold such events?