Agenda item

The Superintendents to be heard.

The Chairman moved that Item 18 – Superintendents Oral Update be moved from the Non-Public to the Public section of the meeting.

Smithfield

The Superintendent reported that the traders had experienced a successful Christmas trading period, with the next large occasions anticipated being Valentine’s Day and Easter. A paper on car parking charges during the Easter period would be presented to the next meeting of the committee

Spitalfields

The Superintendent reported that trade had been heavy over the Christmas period (although less than in the previous year). A review of the car parking charges would be carried out as the parking was currently free to users. A more sophisticated barrier entry system would form part of the review.

It was noted that the waste management contract would be due for renewal in 18months time. The self-surrender scheme had been introduced to deal with increased volumes of waste that had not formed part of the original contract and discussions were ongoing with the tenants association in relation to the scheme.

The Committee were also informed that a number of staffing challenges had arisen, concerning confrontational behaviour towards enforcement officers.

Billingsgate

The Superintendent reported that at Christmas congestion building up around the site was a feature at Christmas. The wholesalers were guaranteed a spot in the main car park; however retail buyers often had to be redirected to the Hertsmere Road Car Park, around half a mile from the site. The Superintendent will consult the central team that have been involved in the Smithfield Christmas traffic plan to see what if any improvements can be made to traffic management at  Billingsgate. It was reported that the Chief Fish Inspector of the market would be retiring soon and the Committee wished to express its gratitude for the work that he had done.