Agenda item

To receive the report of the Interim Executive Director, Environment.  

The Committee received the report of the Interim Director, Environment alongside the appendix 1 (draft report on activities at Keats House from April 2023 to March 2024).

Members noted the achievements at Keats House in 2023/24 and the way in which they support the priorities, aims and objectives outlined within the Corporate Plan 2018-23 and other key Corporate strategies, the Environment Department’s primary and supporting aims and objectives, and the objectives of the Keats House Charity (number 1053381), the City Corporation acting as its sole trustee.

Members noted the upcoming ‘Hidden Histories’ exhibition.

A Member asked for clarification on the term ‘literary meeting place’ from the charity’s objective, and the meeting heard that the term covered a range of cultural activities designed to engage with a wide range of audiences, including younger people, with an emphasis on literary creativity and cultural learning.)

A Member asked for further information on progress with learning partners. The meeting heard that partnerships are in progress with a number of institutions including Dr Johnson’s House, the Museum of the Order of St John, Guildhall Art Gallery & Roman Amphitheatre, and future funded projects include further work on themes around Poetry vs Colonialism and carbon literacy (including the creation of climate-resilient gardens).

A Member commented on the benefits of including audio content of poetry readings accessible via the website.

RESOLVED, That Keats House will contact A New Direction for partnership opportunities, as well as continuing to be responsive to partnership contacts.