Issue - meetings

The Dorset Business Growth Programme, run by WSX Enterprise Ltd, provides free business advice to people running or setting up small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, and Dorset.  It has been very successful in helping create new businesses and new jobs in the area.

The programme receives EU funding from the European Structural Investment Fund, match funding and in-kind support from local partners and local authorities. 

At the beginning of the programme, Bournemouth Council agreed to be the Accountable Body, and subsequently agreed to guarantee the obligations of WSX Enterprise as to the delivery of the programme as set out in the funding agreement provided by the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). Bournemouth Council made appropriate legal and financial provisions so as to protect the Council’s interests. These agreements have novated over to BCP Council. The original funding is coming to an end and a project extension has been applied for by WSX Enterprise Ltd.  For this to be granted, BCP Council is requested to extend the term of its commitment accordingly.

RESOLVED that:-

a)    BCP Council continues as the Accountable Body for the Dorset Business Growth Programme; and that:

b)    BCP Council continues its role in guaranteeing the obligations of WSX Enterprise Limited as to the delivery of the programme.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Regeneration and Culture

REASON

The recommendations support BCP Council’s priority for a thriving, sustainable economy.

The Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Culture presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'G' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet were requested to consider the continuation of BCP Councils role in guaranteeing the obligations of WSX Enterprise Limited as to the delivery of the Dorset Business Growth Programme.

Cabinet questioned whether Brexit would affect the funding for the programme as it was part funded by EU funding.

In relation to this Cabinet were advised that the scheme will continue to be funded irrespective of what happens in relation to Brexit.

RESOLVED that:-

a)    BCP Council continues as the Accountable Body for the Dorset Business Growth Programme; and that:

b)    BCP Council continues its role in guaranteeing the obligations of WSX Enterprise Limited as to the delivery of the programme.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Regeneration and Culture