Issue - meetings

(1)       The ‘West Midlands on the Move Strategic Framework 2017-30’ be approved.

(2)       The appointment of a Political Physical Activity Champion be approved.

(3)       The 2017-19 Delivery Plan and progress made in agreeing the contributions from Constituent Authorities, WMCA and stakeholders be noted.

(4)       The proposals for the Strategic Framework’s launch on 16 November 2017 in Coventry be approved.

The board considered a report seeking approval of the ‘West Midlands on the Move’ Physical Activity Strategy Framework 2017-30. The strategy had been developed following extensive consultation with over 35 stakeholders to ensure connectivity, relevance and consistency.

The three-Local Enterprise Partnership geography of the combined authority currently had the highest levels of physical inactivity in England, with approximately a third of adults inactive. Achieving the English average levels of activity would lead to an approximate boost to the regional economy of £147m. There were no dedicated resources for the strategic framework and delivery plan’s implementation, and therefore the delivery plan set out proposals for local authorities and stakeholders to work collaboratively on actions and identifying resources. Discussions had also started with funding agencies to explore the potential for additional funding for targeted work.

Sarah Norman, Chief Executive of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, indicated that the strategy would be launched by the Mayor and Deputy Mayor in Coventry, along with a councillor who would undertake the role of physical activity champion. Councillor Bill Hartnett enquired about the role that Non-Constituent authorities could play in this initiative. Simon Hall, Physical Activity Strategy Lead, indicated that he was meeting with Non-Constituents to establish what work could be undertaken within the framework of the strategy that would add value to that already in progress.

Resolved:

(1)       The ‘West Midlands on the Move Strategic Framework 2017-30’ be approved.

(2)       The appointment of a Political Physical Activity Champion be approved.

(3)       The 2017-19 Delivery Plan and progress made in agreeing the contributions from Constituent Authorities, the West Midlands Combined Authority and stakeholders be noted.

(4)       The proposals for the Strategic Framework’s launch on 16 November 2017 in Coventry be approved.