The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director (Adults and Communities) setting out the implications of a possible bid for the UK City of Culture competition.

Resolved:

That the potential benefits of developing a City of Culture bid in the future, be noted.  However, as a fledging City, which alongside the City’s residents and businesses, is faced with the cost of living crisis, inflation and significant pressures in adult and children’s social care, it is considered inappropriate to incur any expenditure in relation to a bid in the 2029 competition.

Reasons for decision:

The timing and an unpredictable economic future are major factors which mitigate against such major expenditure as would need to be incurred.

Other options:

To continue with a consultation before reaching a decision.  However, at this time of uncertainty this expenditure is considered to be inappropriate and the Council should concentrate all of its efforts in assisting and working with residents and businesses to ameliorate the effects of the current economic situation in anyway it can.

Other parties could take a lead and prepare for the 2029 bid.  However, advice from Government is that the Council’s resources and commitment are generally required to make the bids successful.

Note: This is an Executive Function

Eligible for call-in to: Place Scrutiny Committee

Cabinet Member: Cllr Mulroney