Report of the Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth and Skills is attached.
Minutes:
Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth & Skills, presented the report which provided an update on progress regarding the High Streets Task Force project and recommended the appointment of Planit-IE to deliver a phased programme of consultation. Members discussed the report, noting that Planit-IE’s involvement allowed the project to be broadened, in scope and in area, and Councillors for the local Wards voiced their support.
Decision:
Cabinet:
1. Approved the appointment of Planit-IE to undertake stakeholder consultation exercises and the production of a plan identifying short and medium-term investment opportunities and a high-level appraisal of long-term opportunities for Whitefield, prior to the visit from the High Streets Task Force; and
2. Approved the ability for the Council to retain Planit-IE to undertake work to provide more detail to the long-term investment opportunities.
Reasons for the decision:
This will enable the Council to work towards the delivery of the HSTF project and the development of a community shaped and influenced Town Centre Plan.
Other options considered and rejected:
No other options were considered/were applicable.