Issue - meetings

This report provides an update on the progress of the Community Stadium project and asks the Executive to endorse the approach being taken and to receive a report on the outline business case at their meeting in June 2009.

Having noted the comments of the Shadow Executive on this item, it was

RESOLVED: (i)         That the progress made to date on the Community Stadium project be noted.

                        (ii)        That the approach set out be agreed and that the feasibility work and testing of potential partnerships to achieve wider community benefits be continued.

                        (iii)       That a report summarising the outline business case be brought to the Executive in June 2009.

REASON:      For information and to ensure the continuing involvement of the Executive in the progress of this project.

Members considered a report which provided an update on the progress of the Community Stadium project since the last update report to Executive on 20 January 2009.

On 20 January, approval had been given to establish a Project Board, including representatives from all key partners, to take responsibility for the strategic development of the project.  The Board would hold its first meeting in May 2009.  The Board was supported by two working groups – a Partnership Group and an Internal Officer Group – which met on a regular basis. 

The first main output of the project would be the preparation of the outline business case, for consideration by the Executive in June 2009.  Specialist consultants had been engaged to undertake a feasibility study and provide specific evidence to support the business case.  A fundamental element of the feasibility work was the extent to which the stadium could benefit the wider community.  Relevant stakeholders had been approached to identify need and gaps in provision.  Officers were exploring the potential for bringing together key stakeholders in the City and were currently speaking to the PCT, the Health Trust, universities and colleges and other service providers.  On 5 February, the Partnership Group had agreed a Communication Strategy, supported by a Communication Plan and Media Protocol.  The latter two documents were attached as Annexes 1 and 2 to the report.

Having noted the comments of the Shadow Executive on this item, it was

RESOLVED: (i)         That the progress made to date on the Community Stadium project be noted.

                        (ii)        That the approach set out be agreed and that the feasibility work and testing of potential partnerships to achieve wider community benefits be continued. ¹

                        (iii)       That a report summarising the outline business case be brought to the Executive in June 2009. ²

REASON:      For information and to ensure the continuing involvement of the Executive in the progress of this project.