Issue - meetings

AGREED That Cabinet:

a)        note the update and endorse the direction of travel for the Forest Corner project;

b)        welcome plans to commence a second phase of work to develop the wider offer for Sherwood Forest; and

c)        approve £75k revenue for 2023-24 to sustain this work through project management, specialist studies and short-term improvements.

The Portfolio Holder – Economic Development & Visitors presented a report which provided an update on the work to develop a revised masterplan and strategy for the Forest Corner area near Edwinstowe, including proposals to allocate resource for 2023-24, and to develop a second phase of work to maximise the wider Sherwood Forest offer.

AGREED      (unanimously) that Cabinet:

a)            note the update and endorse the direction of travel for the Forest Corner project;

b)            welcome plans to commence a second phase of work to develop the wider offer for Sherwood Forest; and

c)             approve £75k revenue for 2023-24 to sustain this work through project management, specialist studies and short-term improvements.

Reasons for Decision:

These recommendations are made in order to ensure Cabinet is aware of recent work and intended next steps and to secure the necessary resources to maintain momentum.

The proposals align with the Community Plan objectives to:

•   Deliver inclusive and sustainable economic growth

•   Enhance and protect the district’s natural environment

Improve the health and well-being of local residents

Options Considered:

A ‘do nothing’ alternative has been considered with regard to the Forest Corner project. This would have significant reputational risk given the undertaking made to stakeholders in 2020 to revise the masterplan in light of consultation responses. It would also fail to realise the potential of the area and close the gap between visitor expectation and experience.