Issue - meetings

Considered a report of the Corporate Director Environment which provided an update on progress of a devolution pilot project for Knaresborough Town Council to take on management and responsibility for operating the weekly charter market in Knaresborough and which sought in principle approval that the project be progressed at pace, on the basis of recommendations to secure the transfer of the market operation to Knaresborough Town Council at the earliest possible opportunity this calendar year.

The Executive Member for Highways and Transportation, Councillor Malcolm Taylor presented the proposals in the report which if approved, would constitute the first instance of double devolution completed by the new unitary authority. He commended the efforts of Knaresborough Town Council and NYC officers in bringing what was a complex pilot project to this stage and looked forward to the delivery of the market service at local level, citing the good example of Easingwold market. The Chair extended his congratulations to Knaresborough Town Council, and Chair of Harrogate and Knaresborough Area Committee, Councillor Peter Lacey confirmed the town’s wholehearted support for the proposal.

Resolved (unanimously)

i)               That the operation of the weekly charter market in Knaresborough be devolved to KTC using section 50(1)(a) of the Food Act 1984, with the Council retaining its charter market right and using its policing powers inherent in that right to control any rival markets for the benefit of KTC.

ii)              Delegate authority to the Corporate Director of Resources, in consultation with the Assistant Chief Executive for Legal & Democratic Services to agree the transfer of market operations as detailed in this report to KTC on appropriate terms as soon as practically possible.

iii)             That NYC Officers continue to work in close partnership with representatives of KTC to ensure a smooth and successful transition of market operations, which should be completed within four weeks of the Executive’s decision date.

Reasons for recommendations

The proposed transfer of operations for Knaresborough Market to KTC is supported by a business case as per the terms of the programme of double devolution pilots and would deliver on the Council’s ambition support town and parish Councils to manage services. Additionally, KTC’s proposal includes the continuation of stall-set up which is well supported locally.