Issue - meetings

Note: The papers were not available for draft despatch and will be distributed under separate cover.

Councillor Patrick Anketell-Jones in an ad hoc statement welcomed the initiative.  He noted that the area was in competition with a number of larger cities such as Bristol.  He felt that the proposed hub would be an excellent start – but that it would only be a test-bed which would inform other developments such as Bath Quays and Bath Western Riverside.

Councillor Cherry Beath in proposing the item said that there was clear evidence of demand for the provision.  The area had high levels of self-employment, with many looking for work space, but that cost was a major factor.  She referred to a letter of support which she had received, signed by the Chair of Creative Bath and the two Universities.  She strongly supported the development, and congratulated John Wilkinson (Economic Enterprise & Business Development Manager) for the work he had done in getting third parties involved.

Councillor David Dixon seconded the proposal.

Councillor Paul Crossley said that he was excited that the Council was working with a range of businesses and manufacturers to set up the hub.

Councillor Cherry Beath summed up by observing that the proposed arrangements would be for a community interest company.

On a motion from Councillor Cherry Beath, seconded by Councillor Paul Crossley, it was

RESOLVED (unanimously)

(1) To APPROVE that up to £500,000 capital provisionally allocated in the 2012/13 budget be used to redevelop an area in the Guildhall to become a Co-Working Hub;

(2) To AGREE that the final layout of the Co-Working Hub will be agreed by Council officers in conjunction with the Cabinet members for Sustainable Development and Community Resources;

To AGREE that a lease be granted by the council to a Community Interest Company to deliver the Co-Working Hub. The specific details of the governance arrangements will need to be agreed by the Council’s Section 151 officer in consultation with the Cabinet member for Sustainable Development and Community Resources.