Surely the simple issue here is (1) Is this just a box ticking exercise - 'we said we'd consult, we have consulted'? or (2) is there any genuine attempt to gain insight so that they could present a 'better' proposal for next year?
I'm a cynic, but I'm guessing that (1) is an odds-on favourite here.
In which case the choice of venue, and indeed the proposed process, is all about ensuring there will be little embarrassment (and nothing to record on surreptitious smartphones) which could be held against them.
The fact that, apparently, they've invited stakeholders to meet quite far away from the site of the action - which is clearly a disincentive to participate, comes as no surprise. Yes, it's only a few bus stops away but...