To establish the future way forward with regard to the Buttermarket project.

Cabinet considered a report on the Hereford Buttermarket which proposed an asset transfer to the Hereford City Council and other interested parties, for the purpose of redeveloping and refurbishing it to secure its longer-term future. 

The Assistant Director Economic, Environment & Cultural Services reported that he had attended a productive and informative meeting with the City Council, who would form a steering group to work directly with involved parties.  Over an approximate six-week period, the steering group aimed to decide upon the viability of the project, and the best way forward.  Cabinet agreed that there was merit in enabling all interested parties to be involved in the project, and amended the recommendation (a) so that the project could include organisations other than the City Council. 

In addition, Members agreed that the recommendations (b) to (f) in the report, relating to the implementation of the project by Herefordshire Council, be deleted.  This was because Members felt that there was far greater scope for redevelopment and long-term management to be delivered through another organisation, or group of organisations. 

RESOLVED:   that Herefordshire Council actively negotiates to transfer the ownership, operation and future redevelopment of the Buttermarket to Hereford City Council and/or other interested parties.