Issue - meetings

(Report of The Leader of the Council)

Report of the Leader of the Council to provide an update on the Future High Streets Fund (FHSF) programme of works.

(Report of the Leader of the Council)

Report of the Leader of the Council to provide an update on the Future High Streets Fund (FHSF) programme of works.

The Chair introduced the Leader of the Council, Councillor P Turner, who introduced the Assistant Director, Regeneration and Growth, Anna Miller and Future High Streets Fund Project Officer, Communities, Planning and Partnerships, Alice Poulton.

The Future High Streets Fund Project Officer, Alice Poulton introduced the report noting that since the report was released, there had been a decision on the change in scope of the Middle Entry Project and they were ready to sign the Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA). It was also noted that the report stated that the refurbishment of the Tamworth Enterprise Centre (TEC) had been due to start in Autumn, but this is now expected to start in August.

The Committee made the following comments/observations and asked the following questions:

1.    Clarification around the removal of Street Furniture at The Peel Café as it was noted that these are well used during the summer? It was confirmed that  five benches and a large planter were being removed but that they are trying to leave moving them to as close to the work start date as possible.

2.    Whether any consideration had been given to Royal British Legion Parade which takes place through the Town Centre in November? It was reported that Officers had been liaising with Arts and Events team around events but this one had not been raised. Officers suggested that the route of the Parade may not be too affected, however they would raise it at the monthly delivery meeting attended by arts and events, the next meeting is next week.

3.    Confirmation that the College had funding in place for their building? It was confirmed by officers that the College had full funding in place and were hoping to open by the end of next year.

4.    Clarification around the scope of works now for Middle Entry and whether this had changed, and how this was being financed if not? It was reported that the project was continuing with the full scope of works and that a report was being submitted to Full Council in July asking for additional Capital Monies to attach to the project. It was reported that the initial requirement by Government was to spend Monies by end of March 2024 and Council was hoping to commit the money by then, but that delivery could go beyond this date.  Money committed to the project by Tamworth Borough Council would not be bound by the government timelines for spend. 

5.    It was questioned whether work on The Peel café and the Market Street properties on the other side of the road would be overlap and when cost estimates could be expected? Officers confirmed that they would be on site soon at the Peel Café whilst the work on the Market Street properties would be in 3 phases. Phase 1, making safe and watertight, Phase 2, drying out the properties and applying  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9