More work and cash needed for community centre

A district council committee spent three months earlier this year reviewing the promotion and marketing of Hambleton Forum, formerly the community centre, taking evidence from managers, officers of the authority and representatives of those who use the building for shows and meetings.

The council-owned Forum, opened as a flagship venue in Bullamoor Road in 1975, underwent an extensive refurbishment and a change of name 18 months ago.

The cultural and social scrutiny committee has now agreed, however, that there is a catalogue of options which could be explored to improve its booking system, promotion, marketing, cleanliness and car parking.

When they meet at the Forum on Tuesday, scrutiny committee members will consider a draft final report containing recommendations for the council cabinet.

The report recommends the establishment of a clear policy for the Forum, under which the potential for holding conferences, meetings and private entertainments there should be explored as long as these functions do not have an overbearing effect on community use.

Improvements to the booking system include a suggestion for a Forum web site, a notice board in the building giving advice to potential customers and the opportunity for people to make bookings at all Hambleton leisure centres.

On promotion and marketing, the draft report recommends the council to reconsider its funding for the Forum, set against other centres, as well as more advertising, an expanded user mailing list and the engagement of external agencies to promote specific events.

The report suggests that the problem of chewing gum dropped by customers could be addressed through more commercial cleaning and additional litter bins.

It recommends that the bar should continue to be run by an external licensee but that a system of reviewing and monitoring performance should be established to ensure good service.

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