Agenda item - RPM Trust - update

Report of the Executive Director, Economy, Environment & Culture

RESOLVED - That the Committee notes progress made to date and the governance proposals as outlined at paragraph 3.13 of the report.

9.1       The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director, Economy, Environment and Culture providing an update on the progress made to date and setting the governance arrangements proposed going forward.

9.2       It was explained that the decision had been taken by the then Policy Resources and Growth Committee that the Royal Pavilion and Museums service should transfer to a standalone trust with the sole purpose of delivering the council’s museums services. This report was intended to update the Committee on the work of the Joint Project Board following the report to TDC Committee in June 2019, when it had been agreed in principle that the service should be transferred to the existing fundraising charity the Royal Pavilion and Museums Foundation. The Foundation has recently been renamed the Royal Pavilion and Museums Trust (the RPM Trust). The governance proposals and the council’s role following the transfer were outlined. It was noted that a more detailed report would be provided to the Policy and Resources Committee (P&R) and that P&R would be asked to support a number of recommendations in that respect.

9.3       Councillor Grimshaw commended the work that had been undertaken to date which had included measures to seek to reassure staff at what was a worrying time for them. In answer to questions, the Head of the Royal Pavilion and Museums explained that meetings had taken place with the unions in order to discuss what was achievable. An HR business partner would be appointed and would be line-managed by the Council.

9.4       Councillor Rainey sought clarification regarding whether approval was required by the Secretary of State. She understood that the process needed to be carried out in the best way possible and wanted information in order to understand the mechanics of that. It was explained that although approval at that level was not required for sums under £2m it was necessary to evidence that the appropriate processes had been undertaken.

9.5       Councillor Mears stated that she supported the approach which had been adopted which in her view represented the best use of resources.

9.6       RESOLVED - That the Committee notes progress made to date and the governance proposals as outlined at paragraph 3.13 of the report.