Decision details

Matter for Decision:

The project, is for a public art commission, which was inspired by the ‘Olympic Mission’ of equality, diversity, peace and the promotion of a healthy environment to aid the integration of new residents within existing communities and to influence the identity, cohesiveness and social dynamics of those communities. The project would take place in four communities of Cambridge, culminating in an ’event’, where all four communities are brought together on Parker’s Piece within a common cause. The ‘event’ would coincide with the arrival of the Olympic Torch relay, which passes through Cambridge in July 2012.

Decision of Exec Cllr for Arts, Sport and Public Places:

Financial recommendations:

The Executive Councillor agreed to recommend this capital scheme for approval by Council, subject to resources being available to fund the capital and revenue costs associated with the Scheme.  The total capital cost of the project is £129,000, and it is proposed that £99,000 be funded from Developer Contributions and £30,000 made available from the Big Weekend 2012 budget to support the project.

Procurement recommendations:

       I.      The Executive Councillor approved the carrying out and completion of the procurement of the Community Olympic commission.

    II.      If the quotation or tender sum exceeds the estimated contract value by more than 15% the permission of the Executive Councillor and Director of Finance will be sought prior to proceeding.

Reason for the Decision:

The project is inspired by the Olympic Mission to address the integration of new residents within existing communities and to influence the social dynamics of those communities. Artists will be commissioned to use the three core values of Olympism to explore the notions of equality, diversity, peace and the promotion of a healthy environment in four communities of Cambridge.

Any alternative options considered and rejected:

Not applicable.

Scrutiny Considerations:

The committee received a report from the Senior Arts and Urban Design Officer regarding the Community Public Art Commission. She tabled some examples of what had been achieved in other areas and outlined the goals of the project as per the report.

In response to members questions she outlined the selection process. Previous research and local knowledge had identified a small number of organisations deemed capable  of delivering the desired goals. The deadlines are tight and a robust tender process would be necessary to ensure delivery of a high quality project that could engage the community and leave a lasting legacy.

Members questioned community involvement in the project and the diversity of engagement. The officer responded that the project would look for engagement across the four area committee area. The correct artist would be able to work in partnership with different community groups. Leaving a legacy of skills and networks for the future.

It was agreed that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the City. It was noted that the funding was to come from Section 106 developer contributions rather than council funds.

The Scrutiny Committee considered and endorsed the recommendations in the report unanimously (8 votes to 0).

The Executive Councillor for Arts, Sport and Public Places approved the recommendations.

Conflicts of interest declared by the Executive Councillor (and any dispensations granted)

N/A