The Policy and Resources Committee is scheduled to convene on Thursday, 7 May 2026, with a public agenda that includes a review of the Destination City Programme's first year and its plan for the second year, alongside discussions on appointments to various sub-committees and advisory boards. The committee will also consider recommendations for improving candidate engagement for future elections.

Destination City Programme: Year 1 Review and Year 2 Plan

The committee is set to review the progress of the Destination City Programme during its first year and consider the delivery plan for its second year. The programme, which aims to enhance the Square Mile as a vibrant and thriving destination, has focused on four key outcomes: being a globally attractive destination for business, encouraging workers back to the office, being an inclusive and welcoming destination for the next generation of talent, and being a place where people want to live, work, learn, and explore.

The Year 1 review highlights achievements such as the launch of the Destination City Dashboard, the establishment of a Partnership Fund, and the creation of the City Business and Investment Unit. The report indicates that targets for business attractiveness were exceeded, with significant increases in investor and occupier leads, and businesses supported. Footfall, particularly on Fridays and weekends, has also shown improvement.

The proposed Year 2 programme builds on these successes, focusing on showcasing and amplifying cross-Corporation activity, supporting the delivery of major corporate projects, and leading and coordinating Destination City priorities. Key deliverables include the continued development of the Destination City Dashboard, coordinated marketing and communications, and the continuation of the Destination City Partnership Fund. The committee will also consider expanding the Destination Advisory Board, which provides strategic direction for the programme.

Appointments to Sub-Committees, Advisory Boards, and Working Parties

A significant portion of the agenda is dedicated to the appointment of members to various sub-committees, advisory boards, and working parties for the upcoming civic year. These include the Resource Allocation Sub-Committee, Communications and Corporate Affairs Sub-Committee, Civic Affairs Sub-Committee, Member Development and Standards Sub-Committee, Capital Buildings Board, Freedom Applications Sub-Committee, and the Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Sub-Committee. The committee will also consider appointments to the Competitiveness Advisory Board, Destination Advisory Board, and the Income Generation Working Party. Additionally, representatives will be appointed to serve on other City Corporation committees, such as the Audit and Risk Management Committee and the Barbican Centre Board.

2025 Election Engagement Campaign Review: Candidate Engagement Recommendations

The committee will consider recommendations aimed at improving prospective candidate engagement for future elections. Building on the findings of the 2025 Election Engagement Campaign Review, the report identifies structural and behavioural barriers that have limited the conversion of interest into candidacy. The recommendations focus on practical, deliverable interventions, including the implementation of a Member mentoring scheme, the development of engaging materials and case studies to clarify the roles of Aldermen and Common Councillors, and building on the success of candidate engagement events. The report notes that while the City Corporation cannot intervene in electoral outcomes, there is a responsibility to support those interested in standing for election.

Barbican Centre Board – Extension of the Current Chairman's Term

A report will be presented concerning the potential extension of the current Chairman's term on the Barbican Centre Board. The Barbican Centre is currently undergoing a significant renewal project, and the recommendation is to extend the Chairman's term by one year on an exceptional basis to provide continuity of leadership during this critical period and to allow for a smooth transition ahead of the Barbican's 50th anniversary.

Resolution from the Digital Services Committee

The committee will consider a resolution from the Digital Services Committee regarding the governance and reporting structure of the City Corporation's website. The Digital Services Committee proposes that responsibility for the website's management and supplier contract should formally sit with the Digital Information and Technology Service, while the Communications and Engagement Directorate would retain responsibility for web content. This is intended to consolidate reporting lines and avoid reporting to separate committees.

Water Resilience Situation Analysis

A joint report from the Executive Director, Environment, and the Executive Director, Innovation and Growth, will provide a situation analysis on water resilience. The report addresses increasing questions from members and stakeholders regarding the organisation's resilience to climate risks associated with water supply and demand. It outlines the current situation within the City Corporation, the Square Mile, and London more broadly, summarises statutory duties, and considers the implications for the City Corporation's operations and ambitions. The report proposes the development of a Water Resilience Action Plan.