Decision Maker: Charity Trustee Sub-Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: November 24, 2025

Purpose:

Content: 9.1 The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services which requested approval of the grant of licences to two selected mobile catering operators (Animal Farm and Charles Ashmore Road pitches).     9.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Charity Trustees Sub-Committee Policy Committee:- (a)  Notes the report; and (b)  Approves the grant of licenses for mobile catering operations at the Animal Farm and Charles Ashmore Road pitches, on the basis that it is in the best interest of the Charity to do so.         9.3 Reasons for Decision     9.3.1 The mobile catering facilities contribute to the objects of the charity, providing amenities within recreation/pleasure grounds for use by the public. It has also become an expected part of visitor’s park experience.     9.3.2 Generating an income allows the council as sole trustee to support the management and maintenance of the park and in turn contribute to the charity objects.     9.3.3 The offers from the selected operators are financially better than the other bids. Based on our knowledge of these operators and payment history we have no concerns over their ability to meet the level of fees proposed or the terms of the licences.     9.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     9.4.1 Alternative Option 1 – Do nothing   Reason for rejection There is the option to not offer licences to any of the operators who have bid. This would mean there would be no provision for this type of offer within the park and would impact on the rental income for the charity which contributes directly to the management and maintenance of the park. This would have a detrimental impact on the quality of the visitor experience. This option has therefore been rejected.