Agenda and minutes

None

Councillor Paul Wray wished to highlighted that he had a small role to play with regard to promoting the Mayflower event.

Councillor Steve Cox declared that he was a Director of a theatre group, when the Panel discussed community engagement.

The minutes of the meeting held on 13^th March, 2019 were agreed as a correct record.

There were no public statements.

The Panel gave consideration to a report relating to Doncaster’s Visitor Economy Strategy that highlighted Doncaster’s increasing reputation as a quality visitor destination.

It was noted that the Strategy set out the ambition for Doncaster to become recognised as a major visitor destination by 2022 could be achieved and its aim to compete with other major towns and cities, whilst generating new jobs and bringing about additional value to the economy.

The Strategy co-ordinates the initiatives and projects that were being delivered by a range of partners to provide, with Doncaster’s public and private sectors continuing to work together.

Members addressed the following areas:

Promotion – it was noted that the Strategy presented at the meeting was not a promotional document but a document that underpinned the Visitor Economy Guide and used nationally to market the Doncaster area, for example at national exhibitions. 

Depending on the event, determined on where and how it would be promoted.  For example, research shows how far families were prepared to travel for certain events, therefore promotion would be tailored to suit.  For example the Tour de Yorkshire and Food Festival events were promoted further afield than the immediate area.

Promotion partners – it was highlighted that the Local Authority worked with many partners within the Borough and across the region, including Welcome to Yorkshire, which was more geared up to undertake national promotion.

Mayflower 400 in 2020 – it was highlighted by the Panel that there were many events due to take place across the Country where an increase in visitor population for Doncaster could be encouraged.  It was noted that work was underway with Plymouth City to progress events and share the story.

Investment – supports the Strategy by enhancing the delivery of events under the Doncaster Growing Together programme, for example, Delicious Doncaster started a number of years ago but now is a quality 3 day event hosting celebrity chefs.

Capturing all businesses – Members expressed concern that only larger attractions within the Borough were being promoted and sought support for the smaller businesses.  It was noted that objectives sought to achieve this with time and energy leading towards overnight stays, benefitting the whole economy. 

Town centre redevelopment – Members stressed that they did not wish to miss opportunities to promote the town centre.  For example, historical walking groups visit and take an interest in the town, therefore a points of interest walk should be signposted throughout the town centre and immediate surrounding area.

It was noted that as part of the town centre redevelopment totem signage was being developed, because the fastest route to a destination was not always the most interesting. 

In response to Members’ concerns, it was noted that the Tourist Information Centre Maps had been updated 4 months ago and it was explained that new town centre maps and signage would be rolled out in December, 2019. 

It was suggested that due to the many town centre changes, could computerised maps/information units be investigated to ensure information  ...  view the full minutes text for item 22.