To receive Report No. 170/2017 from the Director for Places Development and Economy.

Report No. 170/2017 was received from the Chief Executive.

During discussion the following points were noted:

      i.        It was noted that the proposal was in phases, the next phase would only begin when the previous had been completed.

    ii.        Mr Begy noted that going for cheaper options from design to construction may not be best value as the Council could end up paying more on maintenance.

   iii.        The rental income was a forecast and would increase, this was built into the business plan.

   iv.        Mr Arnold mentioned that the head count for gaining employment seemed optimistic. Mr Frieland reported that with businesses moving to bigger units this would generate more employment opportunities. Mrs Briggs noted that there would also be employment opportunities from the construction work that would take place.

    v.        Whilst the Ward Member was not on the Oakham Enterprise Park (OEP) Project Board they would be kept involved with any changes and were happy with the changes so far. Previously it had been that the Ward Member was also the Portfolio Holder.

   vi.        The Chair congratulated Officers for the work that had been done and having taken on the changes after the Audit and Risk report regarding OEP.

  vii.        It was noted that with other projects going forward such as The King Centre and St George’s Barracks, there would be a need to make sure that OEP was not left unfinished. Mrs Briggs noted that the St George’s Barracks would not be vacated until 2021, it would be a disappointment if OEP was not completed by then.

viii.        Mr Arnold asked whether the Council could use the media to celebrate the success of OEP. Mrs Briggs replied that they could try in the New Year.

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After discussion the Panel APPROVED that the meeting returned to public session.

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Mr Frieland left the meeting at 8.34pm and did not return.

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