Issue - meetings

The appendices for this report are contained in the “Additional Papers” Pack circulated with the Agenda.

The Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Leisure and the Board Director, Service Delivery, submitted a joint report concerning the consultation undertaken seeking the views of the public and those interested in sport on the draft Swindon Sports Strategy. The consultation was undertaken in partnership with the Swindon Sports Forum and Wiltshire and Swindon Sport. The report outlines the results of the consultation and sets out the Swindon Sports Strategy that reflects, as far as possible, the comments and views received during the consultation.

Councillor Keith Williams, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Leisure, introduced the report and referred to the on-going challenge of capacity issues and targeting hard to reach members of the public.

Councillor Bob Wright, Opposition Group Spokesperson for Housing and Transport, referred to the Section 106 monies available for investing and improving upon the structures and facilities available at the County Ground. He also expressed concern that the athletics track is not up to standard.

The Chair indicated that he will take a personal interest in this issue and agreed that a briefing would be circulated.

Councillor Stan Pajak, Leader of the Minority Group, indicated his support of the proposals and suggested that Tesco could become involved due to their close vicinity.

Resolved – (1) To note the results of the consultation set out in detail in Appendix 1, and the changes that have been made to the draft Strategy as a result of the comments and views received attached as Appendix 2.

(2) To adopt the Swindon Sports Strategy 2014 – 2017 attached as Appendix 3, in partnership with the Swindon Sports Forum and Wiltshire and Swindon Sport.

(3) To authorise the Board Director, Service Delivery, in consultation with the Cabinet Member with portfolio responsibility and partner organisations, to progress those elements of the Swindon Sports Strategy that are within the remit of the Borough Council.

The reasons for the decision and alternative options are as set out in this minute and the report to the meeting.