Issue details

Geopark Global Conference 2016

To consider a report seeking Council’s approval to bid to host the Geopark Global Conference 2016 in Torbay.

Decision type: Key

Reason Key: Capital expenditure +£250,000 and outside Capital Plan;

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Notice of proposed decision first published: 27/08/2013

Decision due: 26 Sep 2013 by Council

Lead member: Councillor Ray Hill ray.hill@torbay.gov.uk

Lead director: Commissioner of Place and Environment

Contact: Sue Cheriton, Executive Head of Residents and Visitor Services Email: sue.cheriton@torbay.gov.uk.

Consultation process

Meetings with the Geopark Management Group (GMG), which has representation from Councillors, Torbay Council officers, English Riviera Tourism Company, Riviera International Conference Centre, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, English Riviera Geopark Company and Torbay Development Agency.

It is envisaged that a Project Board will be created for this project and the Board will feed into the GMG.

Consultees

We will be consulting/interfacing with the following: Councillors, Torbay Council, ERTC, RICC, TCCT, ERGO, TDA, Plymouth & Exeter University, South Devon College, Kents Cavern, Community Partnerships and Schools in the Bay.

Reason for inclusion in Forward Plan: Key opportunities include: Raising the profile of Torbay and Geopark globally. Potential increase in future international visitor numbers Positive impact in labour market and social/economic inclusion. Positive impact on Torbay economy.

Key Risks: The conference is approved and underwritten, but funds from delegates and potential sponsors are not realised. There is a risk the Council does not win the bid for the conference.

If you want to make representations contact:: John Greaves, Telephone: (01803) 207950, email: john.greaves@tedcltd.com, address: 3rd Floor Torhill House, Union Street, Torquay, TQ2 5QW

Agenda items