Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Director of Place and Economy updating Members on projects and activities undertaken by the Growth, Economy and Delivery Team during the last couple of months.

The Group had before it, and NOTED, a report * from the Director of Place and Economy updating Members on projects and activities undertaken by the Growth, Economy and Delivery Team during the last couple of months.

The following was highlighted within the report:

·       All that had been achieved in the last three years regarding the delivery of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Rural England Prosperity Fund including, the Tiverton Work Hub, the Field to Fork campaign, various workshops, the Mid Devon Destination web page and a number of other significant campaigns that had been regularly reported on to this Group. Analysis had shown that 99% of the available funds had been spent which was excellent.

·       Looking forwards, the Cabinet had recently approved a number of schemes for the future allocation of Prosperity Funds. There would need to be a very quick turnaround time this time, with the Government stating that all monies needed to be ‘spent’ by 31 March 2026. The format was slightly different this time round and there were tight restrictions, for example, the same business would not be able to be helped twice. Regular updates would be provided to the Group. The amount that would be allocated was significantly reduced this time round.

·       Other activity undertaken by the Team over the past 3 months, as listed in the report, was summarised.

Consideration was given to:

·       It was hoped that a similar type of ‘Prosper Programme’ would continue under the new arrangements.

·       It was also hoped that the Devon Agri. Tech Alliance would continue.

·       Various programmes under the Visitor Economy umbrella would continue.

·       The Pannier Market Strategy Review would continue.

·       The ‘Employment Skills’ programme was hoping to be extended.

Note: * Report previously circulated.