Agenda item

Further to the meeting held on 16^th October, 2019 the Panel gave consideration to a report providing progress on the delivery of management of Doncaster and Mexborough Markets by Market Asset Management (Doncaster) Ltd (MAM). 

The report highlighted through key performance information that lettings had increased in the Wool Market and International Food Hall whilst maintaining the numbers of traders in the Corn Exchange, Fish Market, Outer Markets and Goose Hill.

Members therefore addressed the following issues:

General Management of the Contract – As was highlighted at the last meeting, it was noted that monthly management meetings with MAM continued and as shown in the key performance indicators the Local Authority was happy with general management of the contract and lettings.

Heating system – In response to a Member referring to the proposed glazing infill solution required to reduce the drafts occurring at the top of the building and circulating cold air throughout, it was explained that the glass infills had been installed along with a number of heating units making a positive difference to the building temperature.

Occupancy rates – a Member suggested that a number of long term tenants had vacated their stalls and questioned what was in place to support people who could be struggling to continue with their business.  It was confirmed that occupancy rates were due to increase within the final performance quarter, and particularly in the spring and summer was generally the best time for an increase in market traders.  With regard to long standing stall holders it was outlined that there was always expected to be some change and MAM offered assistance to traders including how to promote and sell goods online.  Filling empty units was discussed at the monthly management meeting with MAM and assurances had been given that plans were in place to fill the vacant stalls in the next two months.  With regard to the change of use for some stalls, this was an issue that would be raised at a future management meeting with MAM.

Town centre connectivity – In response to a member highlighting that following the Panel’s discussions over the last year relating to connectivity across the town centre, it was confirmed that access to the market area had improved through the provision of an additional bus stop sited adjacent to the market place.

Preparation for Covid -19 virus – in response to how the Covid – 19 virus could have an impact on the economy for Doncaster if it were to continue to worsen, it was explained the Local Authority’s Directors were focusing on how it would support a number of areas, including the Borough’s business economy and would be addressed across all services, not just specific to the market area.

Footfall – It was explained that in relation footfall over Christmas there were a number of events over this period that had assisted with the effort to increase visitors across the town centre, not just in the Market area.

Space at the rear of the Wool Market – it was noted that this area benefitted from a number of uses, for example, discretionary markets, one-off events and recently a pop up business school for entrepreneurs.  Table Tennis and Foosball tables were currently located in the space for public use.

Corn Exchange – with regard to plans for this building, it was explained that MAM held the contract for the first year and would be providing plans for regeneration in the area underneath and units at the side of the corn exchange.  Members acknowledged that currently artists were sited on the mezzanine level, craft schools on the first floor an uptake for units on the ground floor increasing.

Events – With regard to MAM taking the lead on events within the Market area the Panel was informed that this was not specifically part of their role, but for the Local Authority’s Events Team to develop and deliver the larger events that were detailed within the report.  MAM however had arranged a small event for Pancake Day and plans were in place for Mother’s Day.

EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC AND PRESS.

RESOLVED that the public and press be excluded from the remainder of discussion on this item, in accordance with Section 100(A)(4) of the Local Government Act, 1972, as amended, on the grounds that exempt information as defined in Paragraph 5,6 and 7 of Schedule 12A to the Act, was likely to be disclosed.

In response to a question raised in relation to Appendix 2 of the report, Members were informed that discussions were being undertaken to resolve any contractual issues.

The press and public returned to the meeting.

RESOLVED:  That the discussion and report, be noted.