Issue - meetings

Cobtree Manor Park Visitor Centre Update

Meeting: 26/01/2017 - Cobtree Manor Estate Charity Committee (Item 33)

33 Cobtree Manor Park Visitor Centre Update pdf icon PDF 113 KB

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Committee considered the report of the Head of Regeneration and Economic Development setting out details of the performance of the Cobtree Manor Park Visitor Centre/Café since it opened in August 2015.  It was noted that the full year budget for 2016/17 showed net expenditure for the Visitor Centre/Café of £72,940, but the forecast outturn was now predicting net expenditure of £94,670 which was £21,370 greater than the budget.  The Parks and Leisure Manager explained that the outcome for December 2016 should read -£2,094.  In response to questions by Members, the Officers explained that:

 

·  Consideration was being given to ways to improve the speed at which customers were served at busy times by increasing the counter space to allow for self-service and a second till.  A costed design was being prepared with a view to the work being completed in time for the summer.

 

·  A review had been undertaken of the menu to simplify and reduce the offer.  EPOS analysis had identified popular and non-selling items and there had been streamlining of the offer to refine stocktaking and preparation processes.  The electronic payment system was due to be upgraded.

 

·  The ratio of staff costs to turnover varied, but there was now less reliance on agency staff as the casual pool had increased.  Rotas were drawn up by the Cobtree Manager in consultation with the Catering Supervisor.  The pricing structure had yet to be redefined.

 

During the discussion, concerns were expressed that whilst the Visitor Centre/Café had been trading for less than two years, and staff costs had been reduced, there was a risk that the operation would fail to make a profit over time. It was suggested that consideration should be given to the ratio of staff costs to gross profit.

 

RESOLVED:  That the report be noted.