Members gave consideration to a report which sought to update Members on the performance of Gainsborough Market and which recommended a strategy for future delivery.

Debate ensued and in opening Members were encouraged by the data.  Thanks were expressed personally to the Markets Manager for his continued efforts.   Some were of the view that the data demonstrated that if the market place had something on offer people would come.   Data on recent Xmas events would have been welcomed and Officers advised that as the event had only happened the weekend before, the final report was awaited from Marshall’s Yard.  This would be shared with Members when received.

Whilst the contract had produced results for specific events, it did not appear to have had the same impact on the normal Tuesday and Saturday events.  A Member questioned whether these markets would continue to be promoted and it was confirmed that such a requirement was part of the agreement.

In response to Members’ comments, and scenarios posed, Officers confirmed that over the years a range of options had been considered including those cited.  This was the route Committee had previously agreed to.  The level of promotion being undertaken was much greater and much farther reaching than the authority had previously undertaken or had the capacity to undertake.

There was a general discussion regarding the state of local markets, issues with the business model and other possible solutions, with one suggestion being having a period of free trading.  Officers outlined the incentives which were already afforded and the potential financial impact such an offer would have on the Council.  

Officers confirmed the incomes levels quoted were based on previous years without events.  The financial position was also clarified noting this was deemed a pressure as the agreement had only been budgeted for an initial one year period.  It was noted that historically a budget of £12k had been sought for events, this would no longer be required and therefore real term cost was £12k less than quoted.

In response to suggestions whether there was a risk adverse approach to market operations, Officers confirmed very few markets had been cancelled in the period.

The work of the Market Officer and the Team was again praised.

RESOLVED that:-

(a)         Officers be commissioned  to secure a two-year deal with Marshalls Yard for continued delivery of the monthly Farmers Market in Market Street, deliver a three-day market event during the summer and a three-day Christmas market event including event planning, promotion and marketing of the same and continue to supply marketing support for the twice weekly general market for the duration of the agreement. This should be at a cost not greater than that figure stated in the report  per annum subject to negotiation with a 15% tolerance to be agreed by Chairs of Prosperous Communities and Corporate Policy and Resources Committees;

(b)         Officers be commissioned to secure funding from Gainsborough Town Council to support the two annual events for the duration of the contract.

(c)  ...  view the full minutes text for item 52