This 2nd meeting of the forum was in the Main Hall at Guildford College (Stoke Park Campus) on Wednesday 25th October 2006 from 7:30pm. It was an opportunity to hear about the progress made since the last meeting in April, and for those who missed the first one to express their views on the future of live music in Guildford. seating Capacity was 216 though it was only half full.
On the Panel: were Albert Jack (local Author), Chris Bunting (head of Culture Services at Guildford Borough Council), Andrew Hodges (Guildford Borough Council), Tony Scott (Guilfest and local band promoter), and Michel Harper (local nightclub owner).
Questioner: Peter Gordon (Head of Programming & Breakfast show host Eagle Radio)
The discussion started with an update on some of the new initiatives started since the last meeting. These included a funding donation of £4,000 from the Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) for the PA system at the Boileroom, the spirit group, music lessions on fridays at harpers. This was followed by a short presentation by Jim on the guildford civic hall refurbishment / rebuild. Estimates as to the cost had been agreed at £18m, with a completion date of mid 2009. He was asked by Tont Scott "why a simple health and safety upgrade of less than £5m wasn't being considered, to reopen in less than a year". Jim replied that this option was not viable, and Andrew hodges stated that there were other considerations such as sound proofing and disabled access that had ruled this out. 100 companies had applied to carry out the work, and this had been shortlisted down to 5. A final decision will be made on 22nd Nov 2006. This issue is a hotbed of controversy and will run and run. Other matters discussed included Music for the under 18s, new music on offer at the Boileroom and Guildford University, and free promotion for gigs. Among the invited guests were Guildford's Mayor (Cllr Angela Gunning), Anne Milton MP, and David Williams (Chief Executive of Guildford Borough Council).
Although the forum was open to the general public, there were very few if any ordinary people with no link to the music industry or decision making authority.
Find Guildford Collage on Google maps
Info from the first meeting 26th April 2006
Thanks to Peter Gordon from Eagle Radio for organising this event.
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