Issue - meetings

To celebrate this 50th anniversary there are a series of special events designed to honour the venue’s legacy and bring the community together. Throughout 2025, a diverse programme of events will be offered to engage residents of all ages, celebrate the theatre’s relationship with the community and create lasting memories.

Recommendation

That the Climate Change, Leisure and Housing Committee note the Watersmeet Anniversary summary of detail for 2025.

The Head of Customer Experience introduced the presentation, and the Watersmeet Marketing Officer presented the slides.

Members raised questions regarding the attendance of two film events, noting that the actual turnout exceeded expectations: with 50 attendees for one movie, and 31 for the other. Concerns were raised about the affordability of tickets, and the need for better promotional strategies to attract more attendees. Furthermore, Members commented that the figures suggest that technical staff are being compensated below the real living wage, which could hinder attracting skilled workers. Officers clarified that the figures were estimates and responded by discussing the balance between commercialisation approach and community focus, mentioning the support from local volunteers, the donation of £5,000 from the Friends of Watersmeet, and the importance of word-of-mouth marketing. Furthermore, Members discussed how they could support the venue and attending events.

Councillor Chris Lloyd moved the recommendation as set out in the report.

On being put to the committee the motion was declared CARRIED by the Chair, the voting being by general assent.

RESOLVED:

That the Climate Change, Leisure and Housing Committee note the Watersmeet Anniversary summary of detail for 2025.