£1 million set aside to tie-down events in Wolverhampton

Council chiefs hope the move will help attract more events – and develop some as well – in the city.

A report, set to be discussed by cabinet members, said there was "opportunities" to hold family-focused events, music events and sporting competitions in the city.

But they needed to set aside the initial cash – which will be recovered to create a break-even situation – to tie them down.

The proposals will also see Councillor Harman Banger, along with the Director of City Environment, given the powers to approve – or reject – certain events.

It said: "It is proposed to establish a revenue expenditure budget of £1 million and a corresponding income budget of £1 million for the development and delivery of city events.

"This budget would allow the city events team to respond quickly when opportunities arise.

"Due to the fast-paced nature of the events business, in order to attract the best programme of events and artists, prompt decision making is needed, the availability of an approved budget and delegated authority to proceed to contract will enable the service to act promptly.

"It is recommended expenditure and income budgets of £1 million are approved, creating a net revenue budget impact of zero."

All events are subject to a business case review – with proposals considered against footfall benefits, the target audience and benefits for the city.

It added: "Contact with the events market has resulted in a number of opportunities to develop events in the city, where there is potential income for the council.

"These include but are not limited to; family focussed events, music events and sporting competitions and other events."

The plans will be discussed by members of Wolverhampton Council's cabinet, before heading to a full council meeting – if it's backed by councillors – next month.