Issue - meetings

This report sets out a review of the concessionary charging regime applicable to Tonbridge Castle and presents options for further consideration

The report of the Director of Central Services and Deputy Chief Executive outlined a review of the concessionary charging regime applicable to Tonbridge Castle.  A number of options were set out for further consideration.

It was noted that there were currently 29 organisations, predominantly based in Tonbridge, on the approved concessionary users list (attached as Annex 1 to the report). Of these only six had booked the Castle Chamber in 2019/20.

Members welcomed the opportunity to improve the commercial viability of Tonbridge Castle but also recognised the difficult balance in supporting the local community need.

However, on balance it was felt that Tonbridge had a number of other venues that could be used by local organisations at competitive rates.  The removal of a concessionary users list also provided a consistent approach with that adopted in the parished areas of the Borough. 

RECOMMENDED: That

(1)             the concessionary user discount list be discontinued; and

(2)            any future discounts be authorised by the Director of Central Services on an exception only basis