Issue - meetings

To consider the attached report of the Director of Environment and Corporate Assets.

The Director of Environment and Corporate Assets presented the report on the Overnight Opening of Deal Pier.

The provision of overnight opening occurred on Deal Pier each Saturday night/Sunday morning (00.00hrs – 08.00hrs) between April and November each year. It was being reviewed as the current arrangements  were no longer financially viable due to a number of factors including low usage levels and also challenges in staffing these hours. The average cost of overnight opening was £116.33 compared to an average income of £45.07 per overnight opening.

The Cabinet had agreed to reduce overnight opening to once a month from April to November, although the Pier would still be available for hire for events. The new arrangements would be staffed by contracted staff and it was hoped that they would be more financially viable through better promotion.

Councillor R J Frost highlighted the importance of linking the overnight opening dates with the best fishing tides (on a four weekly cycle) rather than a set calendar period of once per month.

Members expressed concern over the changes and suggested that staff contracts be reviewed to see if it would be possible to provide for more overnight opening.

RESOLVED:  That it be recommended to Cabinet that while the Scrutiny (Policy and Performance) Committee recognises the current situation, the Cabinet be requested to reconsider the decision before implementing it in order to review staffing arrangements with a view to providing for full night opening at Deal Pier.  

To consider the attached report of the Director of Environment and Corporate Assets.

Responsibility: Portfolio Holder for Property Management and Environmental Health

It was agreed that a reduction in overnight opening at Deal Pier to once a month, from April to November, be approved.