THE leader of Lichfield District Council has explained a decision not to participate in a project looking at Staffordshire’s night-time economy.
Cllr Doug Pullen was quizzed on the issue by Reform UK representative Cllr Matthew Wallens.
In a written queston at a recent meeting, the Curborough ward representative asked the Conservative leader why the district council had “chosen not to meaninfully engage with Staffordshire-wide visitor economy and investment partnerships”.
He added:
“How does the leader justify this approach to residents and businesses who may reasonably conclude that Lichfield district is being left behind while other councils actively promote themselves and secure opportunities?”
Cllr Pullen said he was concerned about the value of the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP).
He said:
“The visitor economy is hugely important to our district and we are very proud of the offer we have here locally.
“We have undertaken a value for money assessment regarding joining LVEP. The ask from Staffordshire County Council was £8,000 per year for a ‘seat at the table’ and access to some data. Then there were further ‘bolt-ons’ that we could sign-up to that totalled up to £30,000 of additional spend.
“We believe this money is better spent further enhancing Lichfield’s strong visitor economy brand.
“The definition of partnership working is organisations coming together around shared objectives and a commitment to genuine collaboration – it should not be conditional on a financial contribution.”
Cllr Wallens followed up in his question at the meeting. He said:
“Given the importance of the evening and hospitality economy, how does declining participation in the wider evidence-based study strengthen our ability to support the sector locally?”
But Cllr Pullen said the council were keen to keep the focus local rather than county-wide.
He said:
“Your alluding to our refusal to engage with the county council on the Staffordshire-wide night-time visitor economy work being undertaken.
Quite frankly, that’s because it’s ridiculous that Staffordshire County Council belivees there’s such a thing as a Staffordshire wide night-time economy – it doesn’t exist.
“There’s a Lichfield one, a Chasetown one, ones for Armitage and Fazeley etc. The idea that it’s Staffordshire-wide night-time economy exists is absolute poppycock and we refuse to waste officer time on it.”
