ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL 30 November 2017 Dear Sir/Madam You are hereby invited to attend a meeting of the Regeneration and Development Committee of the Ards and North Down Borough Council which will be held in the Council Chamber, 2 Church Street, Newtownards on Thursday 7 December 2017 commencing at 7.00pm. Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be available from 6.00pm. Yours faithfully Stephen Reid Chief Executive Ards and North Down Borough Council A G E N D A 1. Apologies 2. Declarations of Interest 3. Deputations 3.1. Bob Cree-Hay TPMO – Skills Gap Analysis 3.2. Declan Mackin RSMUK – Jobs Targets ITDRS 4. Ards and North Down Business BOOST Programme (Report attached) 5. Loaves and Fishes Food Fair Sunday 8 October and Monday 9 October (Report attached) 6. Trade Visit to Lapua and Seinajoki – Finland 23-25 October 2017 (Report attached) 7. Economic Development Performance Report Quarter 2 2017-18 (Report attached) 8. Quay Marinas Quarter 2 Review (Report attached) 9. Regeneration and Development Budgetary Control Report – October 2017 (Report attached)
Transcript
ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
30 November 2017 Dear Sir/Madam You are hereby invited to attend a meeting of the Regeneration and Development Committee of the Ards and North Down Borough Council which will be held in the Council Chamber, 2 Church Street, Newtownards on Thursday 7 December 2017 commencing at 7.00pm. Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be available from 6.00pm. Yours faithfully Stephen Reid Chief Executive Ards and North Down Borough Council
A G E N D A
1. Apologies 2. Declarations of Interest
3. Deputations
3.1. Bob Cree-Hay TPMO – Skills Gap Analysis 3.2. Declan Mackin RSMUK – Jobs Targets ITDRS
4. Ards and North Down Business BOOST Programme (Report attached)
5. Loaves and Fishes Food Fair Sunday 8 October and Monday 9 October (Report
attached)
6. Trade Visit to Lapua and Seinajoki – Finland 23-25 October 2017 (Report attached)
7. Economic Development Performance Report Quarter 2 2017-18 (Report
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Head of Economic Development
Date of Report 20 November 2017
File Reference 500541
Legislation Public Contracts Regulations 2015
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Other ☐
If other, please add comment below:
Subject Ards and North Down Business BOOST Programme
Attachments
Background In March 2016 Council agreed that Core Consulting be appointed to deliver the Business BOOST Programme. The Programme provided a comprehensive package of support for businesses across Ards and North Down. The Programme was based around meeting the individual needs of local businesses in encouraging and accelerating local competitiveness and growth and was broken into different tiers of support: Tier 1 - registration on the programme and signposted to local support services; Tier 2 – access to local support services and workshops; Tier 3 – tailored mentoring support. Progress Update The programme was launched in June 2016 with Cohort 1 seeing the allocation of 20 Tier 3 mentoring places and 14 mini-Boost mentoring places. Cohort 2 was launched in March 2017 and seen the allocation of 21 Tier 3 places and 5 mini-Boost mentoring places.
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The final workshop for Cohort 2 was held on 5th September and all programme mentoring is now complete. All key targets and milestones have been met. Programme Targets
Activity Objective & Output Outcome Assist increase in turnover of the client companies
Increase of at least 5% in the cumulative turnover of participating businesses by the end of Year 1 for cohort 1 and year 2 for Cohort 2
31% Cumulative Increase in Turnover Target Exceeded
To assist in the capacity building of the participant business
At least 10 new jobs created in participating businesses by the end of the programme (five jobs per year) and a further 5 new jobs within 6 months of the programme’s end
35 Jobs Created Target Exceeded
To encourage participants to export.
10% of the participants to further develop or start exporting within 18 months of completion of the programme.
15 companies (38%) have started to export Target Exceeded
The key results for each Cohort are summarised below. Programme Outputs – Cohort 1 Key Programme Outputs for Cohort 1 are summarised as follows:
• There has been a cumulative increase in 6-month turnover for Tier 3 participants of 38.6% (over £1.27 million) in comparison to the period of July 2015 to December 2015 (i.e. before commencement of the BOOST Programme Cohort 1)
• A total of 19 jobs have been created since June 2016 (please note that the net jobs created have been 16 as 3 were lost)
• 9 companies are actively exporting at present (with 3 others planning to do so within 12 months).
Programme Outputs – Cohort 2 Key Programme Outputs for Cohort 2 are summarised as follows:
• There has been a cumulative increase in 6-month turnover for Tier 3 participants (from April-Sept 2017) of 20.38% (over £509k) in comparison
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to the period of April-Sept 2016 (i.e. before commencement of the BOOST Programme Cohort 2)
• A total of 16 jobs have been created since March 2017 • 6 companies have commenced exporting since March 2017.
Overall Programme Outputs – Cohorts 1 & 2 Key Programme Outputs for the overall programme to date are (for Cohort 1 and 2) as follows:
• There has been a cumulative increase in 6-month turnover for Tier 3 participants of £1,785,803.03 (across a total of 41 companies) in comparison to the turnover achieved in the respective 6 month periods before companies participated on the BOOST Programme – this is a cumulative increase of 31%
• A total of 35 jobs have been created since June 2016 (please note that the
net jobs created have been 32 as 3 were lost)
• 15 companies have commenced exporting since joining the programme (with 3 others planning to do so within 12 months).
Final Evaluation The Economic Development Section is applying under the new ERDF LED measure for a similar mentoring programme: The SHINE Programme, which would run until 2021. If successful, this will leverage more funds to assist other interventions to support business growth and replace the BOOST programme. If unsuccessful Council will re-evaluate bringing the BOOST programme back, subject to budgets. It is proposed to await the outcome of that process to decide on the way forward. Should SHINE be funded under ERDF, there will be no need to re-tender the BOOST programme until 2021.
RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council notes this report.
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ITEM 5
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Regeneration and Development
Date of Meeting 07 December 2017
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Head of Economic Development
Date of Report 20 November 2017
File Reference ED33
Legislation
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Other ☐
If other, please add comment below:
Subject Loaves and Fishes Food Fair Sunday 8 October and Monday 9 October 2017
Attachments Appendix 1 Exhibitor Summary Report
Background The Loaves and Fishes 2017 Food Fair is a unique event aimed at celebrating and supporting Seafood Week and local artisan food in the borough and Northern Ireland. It was organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council with support from other partner organisations – Seafish NI and Food NI. The Loaves and Fishes was held for its second year on the 8 and 9 October 2017 in the grounds of Ballywalter Park, Co. Down. Sunday 8 October was open to the public and Monday 9 October was a day set aside for the Northern Ireland Colleges to provide a platform for education and active learning. The event consisted of cooking demonstrations by international and regional chefs which included; Martijn Kajuiter, Danny Miller, Stevie Toman and Kim Close with Flavour First, Fish Filleting by Hal Dawson, baking demonstrations by Lady Dunleath, cheese demonstrations by City Cheese and fermentation demonstrations by Dearbhla Reynolds. The event included a food and drink village with up to 25 local artisan producers and a bar providing locally produced drinks. The event was a family aimed event also involving
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a visit of the walled gardens. The Monday event saw regional catering colleges from across Northern Ireland take part in the “Ready, Steady, Cook!” and in a series of Masterclasses on bread making, filleting, fermenting and cheese making. Objectives The aim of this event was to provide a platform for the artisan food sector to display and sell local products. The event took place during Seafood Week and was a celebration of Fish and Seafood, which is abundant on our coasts and also one of the key industries in this part of the Borough. The event was designed to attract both local residents and a Northern Ireland wide pool of “foodies”. The ultimate aim as well as featuring local products and businesses, was to increase visitor numbers and increase the turnover of participating companies. Last year, the Loaves and Fishes ran as a pilot project linked to the year of Food and Drink and part of the Peninsula Food Show Case. As agreed by Council, it was decided to run it again with the relevant partners in order to establish if the Loaves and Fishes could become a legacy event. In 2016, the Sunday event attracted 2,500 visitors. This year, it is estimated that between 5,000 and 6,000 visitors came to the Loaves and Fishes. Marketing The significant increase in visitors was mainly linked to the positive experience of last year’s visitors, but also to the extensive and cost effective marketing campaign. Marketing and advertising included distribution of 3000 information flyers, 200 posters borough wide, large PVC banners located at Lord Dunleath’ Estate in Ballywalter and at Londonderry Park, Facebook competition for a food hamper, adverts in local newspapers (Spectator, Chronicle and Down Recorder), Q Radio advert campaign two weeks before the event, What’s On NI online and social media campaign (Twitter). The total costs of the marketing campaign in the form of print, online and radio equated to £3,344.05. The value of total coverage received was equivalent to £8,369.69, advertising equivalent value (AEU). The Media Impact Value which is the evaluation of a campaign’s success in terms of its impact, influence and the created perception of the client organisation was £22,260.99 Exhibitors Feedback Up to 25 local food artisan producers exhibited on Sunday 8 October and three foods-to-go producers provided food on the Monday 9 October for students from the colleges. Appendix 1 is the exhibitors’ feedback summary form which indicates that 100% of the food products were happy with the event and would participant in other council food events.
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Food producers were asked to assist officers to measure the impact of hosting the Loaves and Fishes event by providing total sales. The total sales of combined producers was approximately £12,905 and an estimated value of orders on both days of £600. However, the companies’ turnover was higher than this figure, as not all participating companies wished to disclose their sales figure on the day of the event. It is estimated that the turnover could approximate £17,000. Some companies ran out of supplies before the end of the Sunday event and had to either get more supplies or close their stall. It was felt by all that the number of visitors had far exceeded their expectations. Customers/Visitors Feedback Visitors travelled specifically to attend the Loaves and Fishes event. Most visitors surveyed were day trippers to Ballywalter Park. All visitors enjoyed the event, meeting food producers and enjoyed the cooking demonstrations. Most visitors surveyed spent between 1 and 2 hours at the event and purchased an average of £20 worth of food and drink products. One issue to be taken into consideration if the event is to run again next year is parking. The Loaves and Fishes was in some way a victim of its own success. Colleges Collaboration More than 299 Students from a cross section of the FE colleges attended on Monday 8 October and were given the opportunity to participate in masterclasses and attend cookery demonstrations with professional chefs. The day provided the opportunity to learn more about catering as a potential career choice. Costs Invoices relating to this project have not all been processed at the time of writing but it is anticipated that the overall event cost will be in the region of £13,000. This represents a cost of £2.16 per visitor. The original budget of £10,400 was slightly exceeded as the Council did not get the financial support from Food NI this year. However, the shortfall was funded through existing Economic Development budgets. The Council also levered in excess of £6,000 from Seafish to provide fish and seafood to deliver this project. Food NI contributed in kind by offering staff time for the two days of the event estimated at £500. Visitor Summary Information The majority of visitors attending came from within the borough (82%) on a day trip and travelled specifically to attend the event. The main reason for attending was to visit and purchase from the artisan food stalls. 74% indicated that they had the opportunity to try new food and that this would encourage them to eat more local produce. 60% said they would definitely rate the event as excellent and would recommend the event to others.
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61% of the College students from Belfast Met, SERC, SRC, SWC and NRC attending rated the event as good or excellent. Conclusion The number of visitors and the feedback received was extremely positive. The Economic Development Unit is now considering if “The Loaves and Fishes” should become an annual joint project between the existing partners. The future vision for the event is to educate the public, increase visitors, to inspire the future generation of chefs with fish, seafood and local produce and to continue our endeavour to support the Food and Drink Artisan Producers by providing them with an opportunity to sell, grow and increase their visibility. The event also supports the draft Integrated Tourism Regeneration and Development Strategy. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council agrees to work with partners to deliver a third edition of the Loaves and Fishes event, subject to budgets, during Seafood Week 2018.
Exhibitor Feedback Summary Form
Loaves and Fishes Food Fair
8th October 2017
Thank you for taking part in the Loaves and Fishes Food Fair at Ballywalter Park. Your
cooperation in completing this questionnaire would be greatly appreciated. Please
note that the information provided below will be treated in strict confidence.
Forms Received : 19
1. Were you happy with your stand and its position?
Yes No
Please score the following:
Excellent Very Good Good Average Poor
2. Time and Duration of Event 90% 10%
3. Venue 81% 19%
4. Organisation of Event 90% 10%
5. Overall Satisfaction with Event 90% 10%
6. Would you like to participate in other Council-run food and drink events based on
your experience at this one?
Yes No
95%
If No, please comment further:
Bit of a squeeze at times and not sure people knew we were there
5%
100%
7. Please add any improvements you would like to see, or any further comments.
We feel more local food producers/stall holders and events/activities going on would
benefit the event greatly to increase the day out for visitors considering the number of
people who where there. However we thoroughly enjoyed the day and felt it was a
great success for us at Glastry farm in terms of customers and ice cream sales.
There was some difficulty with waiting times to access event due to only having one
entrance available
Ground for parking very wet and soft resulting in car having to be towed out.
.Preparation of ground crucial at these events and as ground is known to be soft
perhaps mats laid in advance would help More care and monitoring of ground would
be beneficial at future events
I thought the event was excellent. Customers arrived from the start – maybe
start slightly earlier?
Otherwise I was really pleased with it this year. I have had great feedback
since the event with people keen to come next year. This includes people who
were there as well as people who have now heard about it.
The weather was good this year. Next year, in case there is rain, can I
suggest you have a large, open-sided gazebo for people to sit under for the
demonstrations. Open-sided would mean people could still mingle easily
around the stalls whereas a closed marquee would separate the traders from
the demonstrations and would adversely affect us.
Everyone was very helpful! Got caught with some unexpected numbers but got
everyone fed!
Well run! Great day!
Would have been great to see more local producers but I think that will happen as
word of mouth travels, defo one of the best organised and relaxed feeling events we
do. Also I apologise for the complete hassle of chasing me for all my insurance stuff
etc!
Monday was poor for sales. Maybe a Saturday/Sunday event would be better?
Event was fun and well organised. Would be delighted to attend again next year.
8. To measure the impact of events such as these, we need to ask you for some
sales information. This will be used only to combine the sales of all exhibitors to
get an overall sales total for the event, and not for any other purpose.
Estimated total sales at the event: £
9. Estimated value of orders placed at the event, if any: £
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Head of Economic Development
Date of Report 17 November 2017
File Reference ED 11
Legislation
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Other ☐
If other, please add comment below:
Subject Trade Visit to Lapua and Seinajoki- Finland - 23 - 25 October 2017
Attachments Annex 1 Programme of the visit
Background: In December 2016, Council agreed to proceed with a Joint Economic Development
and Craft Development investigative trade visit to Lapua and Seinajöki in Finland to
build on the contacts that had been previously established by legacy Ards Borough Council. The agreed aim of the project was to:
Select four local companies from the creative industry and food sector in the Borough to participate in the visit, investigating business development and knowledge exchange opportunities.
Evaluate possible bursary programme
Identify creative industry and food trading shows which could be attended.
Identify potential to develop a student placement exchange programme with Seinayoki University and SERC in the creative industries and food sectors.
Develop an opportunity to share the Council’s knowledge in the food tourism and creative industries sectors with this part of Finland.
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A programme of activities for local craft and food companies was developed to investigate business development opportunities and exchange of knowledge with industry representatives in Finland and collaborative networks. Four companies applied under the programme and were assessed for suitability to participate.
1. NI Silver 2. Broom Cottage 3. Discerning Wood Art 4. Mike’s Fancy Cheese
Mike’s Fancy Cheese unfortunately withdrew from the process late in the day. There was no possibility to further recruit a replacement participant. It was decided to proceed with the three companies mentioned above. An initial meeting with the companies established what their priorities were in relation to this visit. It was specified at that stage that the visit was an investigative mission and that it was unlikely they would sell their products during this particular visit. However, it was clearly explained that the aim was to create the necessary contacts and to communicate with the relevant network to allow trade to develop in the future. The companies made a contribution of £250 each towards the cost of the visit to demonstrate their commitment. In order to promote the companies in Lapua, a small exhibition took place in the Cultural Centre. This provided a platform for the three companies and allowed them to display and potentially sell their products. It was agreed that they would take a small number of items which were representative of their craft/business. A full programme (see appendix 1) was developed to respond as much as possible to the companies’ expectations. Some last-minute changes were also carried out to ensure that Discerning Wood Art could meet people and companies which were meaningful to their trade. Companies’ highlights from this visit: NI Silver:
Meetings with Christine Jalio, a silversmith and jeweller like Ruth Ewan-Lyon (she was also one of the visit’s organisers and guided the group throughout the visit). Christine demonstrated the new materials she uses and shared her experiences. Christine is also responsible for the Residency Programme in Lapua and discussed with the participants the opportunity to take part in the scheme. NI Silver is planning to apply for a residency placement in Lapua and wants to keep in close contact with Christine to learn about exporting around Europe as they exhibit their work worldwide. NI Silver is also intending to learn from Christine on how to participate in a major jewellery exhibition in Munich (Schmuck) next year.
As NI Silver is interested in multi-support craft (wood, ceramics), one of their highlights was the visit to Timo Suvanto, a wood and stone sculptor, and to
Amfora, a ceramicist in Seinajöki.
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NI Silver stated “All in all, a wonderful experience and one that will allow me to pivot my future creative direction in a totally new way. The businesses in Finland did prove that to fund art, you need a commercial thread as well, so perhaps I need to change my business plan to accommodate this new route!”
Broom Cottage:
The visit to Mumma Design, a printing artist working from her own rural cottage, was a highlight for Broom Cottage as Mumma had a very similar set-up as Broom Cottage.
The visit to masonry sculptor Timo Suvanto was very significant. Timo has skills that Broom Cottage do not have but are willing to pursue this relationship to learn more and acquire new skills.
During the exhibition at Vanha Paukku, Broom Cottage met with a local bee keeper who was very keen to keep contact and to develop a link with the Northern Ireland Bee Keeping Association.
Broom Cottage Quoted: “There were lots of opportunities to export and import knowledge between contacts that I made here. I returned from this trip with renewed confidence in both my business and my ability to move it forward. I was reassured that I have a well-established business and now need to focus on increasing turnover in this coming year and, with knowledge I gained, I have a clear plan on how I will achieve this”.
Discerning Wood Art:
Discerning Wood Art felt that sculptors, no matter what country they are from, are struggling to sell their work and to pass on their skills. There are only a few sculptors in this area of Finland and they are all experiencing the same struggles.
Discerning Wood Art came to the conclusion that there was no export opportunity for the business in this rural area of Finland despite efforts to put him in contact with relevant individuals.
Discerning Wood Art’s Quote: “It was an enjoyable cultural experience, meeting some wonderful local people and getting a flavour of their heritage, food and culture. The most memorable aspect of the trip for me was meeting Finnish people, the warmth of their generosity and their appreciation of their environment should be an example to us all. A visit to Aalto’s Library showed how forward thinking they are as a nation and finding out a little of their education system explains how and why they are world leaders in education and design”.
Two of the participants gained a lot out of the visit and are keen and willing to pursue the relationship. Wood sculpture is not an area which seems to offer such opportunities and this will be taken into consideration for future work with Lapua. Participants also wished that the exhibition space had been bigger and the event better attended. However, it must be pointed out the space was kindly offered to the Council by the Cultural Centre as a pilot at no cost and that attendance to an event is hard to predict in advance.
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The Economic Development Unit met with several regional groups during the trip
including; The Regional Council, The Leader Group, REKO Network and The Kyrö
Distillery. The Regional Council: The strongest sectors for the region include the food processing industry and the creative industries as well as the technology and building industries. The Regional Council is trying to strengthen its food production and food culture and is now placing a significant emphasis on culture and tourism. It was established that the Regional Council was keen to see local companies from AND Borough participate in a number of initiatives such as:
1. The annual Kavhakki Food Festival held in September
2. The Seinajöki October Craft Fair
These high-profile events would provide an opportunity for Food and Craft companies to raise their profile and sell their products. A Craft Fair is organised every year before Christmas in Lapua. The Leader Group: The Leader Group highlighted two projects which could be of interest to Ards and North Down Borough Council. They are currently Interreg Programmes but the Council could learn from good practice in the following areas:
1. Building Innovative Food Value Chains in European Regions 2. Eco-Waste which is an initiative aimed at finding innovative solutions to
reduce food waste. REKO Network: The REKO Network is a well-established model in the region aimed at offering local food producers an opportunity to deliver their produce at a specific time and place, according to the orders they receive through a Facebook page managed by a coordinator. This model ensures that only the quantities of produce required are brought to the delivery point, therefore avoiding any waste. It is felt that this model, similar to the Food Assembly model, could be further tested in the Ards and North Down Borough Council area to allow our local food producers to sell their produce in a cost-effective manner. In addition, this model has ensured that all the members of the network communicate with each other and contribute to the local supply chain in the most efficient way.
The Kyrö Distillery:
The Kyrö Distillery was founded by five young people in 2014 with very little funds
and the owners took enormous financial risks to start and run this business. Their unique selling point is that they make rye whiskey and gin. Most of the European market is saturated with barley gin and whiskey. The gin was supposed to supplement the whiskey production until the whiskey was matured enough to sell. However, after winning the award for the best Gin in the world in 2015, the company
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has seen the demand for their gin soaring and the production went from 400 bottles in 2015 to 350,000 bottles in 2016. The company has now become the main employer in this rural area and employs 27 people. It is planned to put them in contact with Echlinville Distillery to establish if areas of mutual learning and cooperation can be identified. Given the activity packed programme for the visit, contact with Colleges and Universities were only just established but not discussed at length. We are now investigating student placement opportunities with SEDU, the college based in Lapua
and Seinajöki and with Seinajöki University of Applied Science.
The Finnish partners involved in this mission would like to visit Ards and North Down in the first half of 2018 (date to be confirmed). We will investigate the opportunity to facilitate a targeted programme which will offer Finnish visitors the possibility to learn about the experience gained by the Council in developing craft trails and initiatives, as well as food projects and events. The programme is to be further developed when the dates of the visit is confirmed. Conclusion: This visit was productive in terms of providing a pool of very different companies with an experience that gave them an opportunity to consider new ventures. The partnership in Lapua is very solid and there is a mutual willingness to develop our relationship further. The learning and the series of current and future actions coming out of this visit are positive and will be further developed in line with the new Integrated Tourism Regeneration and Development Strategy. A total of £6,000 was set aside to realise this initial project and the total expenditure, including the income of £750, amounted to £4,966.81. A short photographic and video montage is currently being compiled to illustrate the journey of the three companies during this visit in Finland. This will be uploaded onto the Council website when completed.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that Council:
(i) notes this report (ii) approves that the Economic Development Unit assesses the potential of
developing meaningful links with the South Ostrobothnia Region in accordance with any outcomes of the Integrated Tourism Regeneration and Development Strategy .
APPENDIX 1: ITINERARY FOR FINLAND VISIT 22-26 OCTOBER 2017
SCHEDULE
SUNDAY 22.10.2017
17.30 Pick up from the Vaasa airport. Car rental from Lapua.
18.45 Check in to Lapuahovi Hotel
19.00 Dinner
MONDAY 23.10.2017
– 9.00 Breakfast at the hotel
9.00 Pick up from the hotel
9.15 MummaDesign – www.mummadesign.com
10.40 Lapuan Kankurit - www.lapuankankurit.fi
11.30 Lunch (10 e / person)
14.00 Leaving to Isokyrö Distillery
15.00 Visit at Tour at Kyrö Distillery
17.00 Leaving back to Lapua
19.00 Dinner – Lapuahovi restaurant
TUESDAY 24.10.2017
– 9.00 Breakfast at the hotel
9.10 Lapua Cultural Centre Vanha Paukku visit
12.00 Lunch at Vanha Paukku
- Also time for some shopping in the Vanha Paukku area shops
13.00 Leaving to the brewery
13.15 Visit of Knife Factory Lisakki Jarvenpaa Osakeyhtio
16.00 Visit Timo Suvanto: Wood sculptor and Stone Mason
17.00 Preparing the evening exhibition and meet up in Vanha Paukku Cultural Centre
17.15 Burger meal at Vanha Paukku restaurant before the exhibition
18.00 to 23.30 Meet & Greet evening and the exhibition at the local pub at the Cultural Centre
WEDNESDAY 25.10.2017
– 9.00 Breakfast at the hotel
9.00 Leaving to Seinäjoki
9.30 Visiting Amfora
10.30 Visiting Regional Council, Seinäjoki
12.30 Lunch at Seinäjoki, Lunch Restaurant Prikka, Seamk
13.30 Seinäjoki Taidehalli – Seinäjoki Art Hall visit
14.30 Visiting Rytmikorjaamo – Theatre director, scrip writer introduces Cultural Collective Silta
15.30 Visiting Varikko Galleria, Seinäjoki
17.00 Visiting Aalto Centre, Seinäjoki
19.00 Dinner in Seinäjoki
THURSDAY 26.10.2017 10.00 Breakfast at the hotel
11.45 Leaving to Vaasa Airport
14.45 Departure from Vaasa Airport
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ITEM 7
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Regeneration and Development
Date of Meeting 7 December 2017
Responsible Director Director Regeneration Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Economic Development
Date of Report 20 November 2017
File Reference 160127
Legislation
Section 75 Compliant Yes x No ☐ Other ☐
If other, please add comment below:
Subject Economic Development Performance Report Q2
2017-18
Attachments
Context Members will be aware that Council is required, under the Local Government Act 2014, to have in place arrangements to secure continuous improvement in the exercise of its functions. To fulfil this requirement Council approved the Performance Management Policy and Handbook in October 2015. The Performance Management Handbook outlines the approach to Performance Planning and Management process as:
Community Plan – published every 10-15 years
Corporate Plan – published every 4 years (2015-2019 plan in operation)
Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) – published annually (2017/18 plan published 15 June 2017)
Service Plan – developed annually (approved April 2017)
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The Corporate Plan 2015-19 sets out 17 objectives for the plan period based on themes of People, Place, Prosperity and Performance. The Council’s 16 Service Plans outline how each respective Service will contribute to the achievement of the Corporate objectives including, but not limited to, any relevant actions identified in the PIP. Reporting approach The Service Plans will be reported to relevant Committees on a quarterly basis as undernoted:
Reference Period Reporting Month
Quarter 1 (Q1) April – June September
Q2 July – September December
Q3 October – December March
Q4 January - March June
The report for the second Quarter of 2017/18 is attached. Key points to note:
The main reason for the variation of spend against budget is due to staffing vacancies which need to be filled. These are currently being addressed.
The underperformance regarding participation on inter-regional programmes is due to the fact that 3 businesses participated in the pilot trade visit to Finland and to timing as we await other programmes to come on stream.
Key achievements:
All Operator contracts are operating well and are being managed to ensure targets and compliance measures are met.
The services of the business support team are in much demand and the number and scope of interventions with businesses has increased with current staffing levels to meet this.
Emerging issues:
The Integrated Strategy is still in development. Its delivery may impact on the structure and services we provide as we go forward.
Action to be taken:
The filling of posts remains a priority and the team is working with HR to advertise and fill vacant posts.
Further work will be done with local businesses to introduce them to other programmes which will help them to work inter-regionally and to investigate export opportunities.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that Council notes this report.
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Economic Development
Generated on: 20 November 2017
Last Update Q2 2017/18 Performance Data Traffic Light Icon
PI Short Name Performance Data
Current Value
Performance Data
Current Target
% spend against budget 90.52% 100%
% attendance 99.41% 95%
% performance against targets 95% 90%
Effective draw down and utilisation of grant claims 100% 100%
% Performance of Operator contracts 100% 80%
No of workshops/group interventions 23 13
No of 1:1 Business Advice sessions 64 30
Increase the use of business research services 39 25
Number of Business Newsletters 3 3
No of new jobs promoted 28 21
Last Update H1 2017/18 Performance Data Traffic Light Icon
PI Short Name Performance Data
Current Value
Performance Data
Current Target
No of businesses participating in interregional programmes 3 5
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ITEM 8
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Regeneration and Development
Date of Meeting 07 December 2017
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Head of Economic Development
Date of Report 20 November 2017
File Reference 141671
Legislation n/a
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Other ☐
If other, please add comment below:
Subject Quay Marinas Second Quarterly Report
July - September 2017
Attachments Second Quarter Report
Members will be aware that Quay Marinas operates Bangor Marina on behalf of Council. As part of the agreement, Quay Marinas provides a quarterly and annual report which is presented to Committee as received. Attached is the second quarter report for 2017/18. The report covers the entire range of activities that are undertaken in the Marina.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that this report is noted.
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ITEM 9
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Regeneration & Development
Date of Meeting 07 December 2017
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Head of Finance
Date of Report 23 November 2017
File Reference FIN45
Legislation Section 5 Local Government Finance Act (NI) 2011
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☐ No ☐ Not Applicable ☒
Subject Regeneration and Development Budgetary Control Report – October 2017
Attachments -
This Regeneration and Development Budgetary Control Report covers the 7-month period 1 April to 31 October 2017 and is set out on page 3. The net cost of the services is showing an under spend of £357,204 (15.4%). Explanation of Variance In addition, a Budgetary Control Report by Income and Expenditure for Regeneration and Development is, also, shown on page 3 which analyses the overall favourable variance (£357,204) by expenditure (£307,171 favourable) and income (£50,033 favourable).
Regeneration & Development Expenditure - £307.2k (11.5%) better than budget to date. This favourable variance is mainly made up of the following: -
1. RDP HQ - £15.8k favourable as a result of a vacant post.
2. Regeneration - £89.3k favourable. This favourable variance is explained by-
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a. Payroll £70.8k favourable due to vacancies in Urban Development (£16.7k) and Rural Development (£19.9k) which are in the process of being filled. Craft Development is, also showing an underspend (£24.1k) due to a vacant post.
b. Public Realm revenue costs are currently £13.5k under budget.
c. Rural Development Programme running costs are £7.1k under budget to date – see 5b below.
3. Economic Development - £35.8k favourable. This favourable variance is explained by: -
a. Payroll £26.7k favourable. There are 2 vacant posts within Economic Development. One is currently being recruited with the other expected to be filled in early 2018.
b. There are small favourable variances for Economic Development Workshops (£2.7k) and Signal Centre running costs (£2.6k).
4. Tourism - £166.3k favourable. This favourable variance is explained by: -
a. Payroll £120.7k favourable. A number of vacant posts in Events and Tourism Development are in the process of being filled.
b. Events such as the Comber Earlies Food Festival (£6.1k), Sea Bangor (£9.9k), Summer Entertainment (£8.9k) and Easter (£8.8k) are currently £33.7k under budget.
c. Donaghadee Lights Up is currently £12.5k over budget due to additional Health & Safety requirements which weren’t budgeted for.
d. Events grants are currently £13.1k under budget.
Income - £50.0k (13.7%) better than budget to date. This favourable variance is mainly made up of the following: -
5. Regeneration - £43.4k favourable. This is mainly due to: -
a. Revitalisation grants are £44.7k favourable as these are in respect of the 2016/17 year and, as the programme ended in 2016/17, there is no income budget for this year.
b. Rural Programme grant is £1.7k worse than budget to date but this is more than offset a similar reduction in running costs – see 2c above.
6. Tourism - £10.6k favourable.
a. Income from a range of Council events is currently £11.1k better than budget.
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RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Committee notes this report.
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Temporary Head of Tourism
Date of Report 22 November 2017
File Reference 171527
Legislation n/a
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Other ☐
If other, please add comment below:
Subject Seasonal Visitor Information Centres Annual Review 17/18
Attachments
Introduction The Council operates two seasonal Visitor Information Centres. Cockle Row Cottages in Groomsport, open from Easter Sunday to the first weekend in September, and Portaferry Visitor Information Centre, open from Good Friday until 30 September. Both centres service visitors and locals and provide complimentary visitor entertainment / activity throughout the season. Both offer an attraction experience for the visitor and market their activity accordingly. Cockle Row Cottages, Groomsport Opening times Easter Event Day, 16 April. 22 April–28 May (Saturday and Sundays 11-5pm). 1 June–4 September (Daily 11-5pm). Hallowe’en Event Day, 29 October 11-5pm This year saw a mild summer with positive results reflected in visitors and income generated.
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Enquiries and visitors
Enquiry/visitor type
April – Oct 2017
Target 2017
Against Target
April – Oct 2016
Against Previous yr
Counter 8,996 9,240
Cottage 7,055 7,887
Total 16,051 13,000 +23% 17,127 -6%
In addition to direct visits to the Cottages, 9967 visitors were logged in and around the poolside area. This number has continued to increase following the investment made by council in upgrading the immediate surrounds to the cottages and poolside area. Cockle Row Cottages exceeded its annual target of 13,000 visitors by 23%. The entertainment programme generated additional visits, with an increase of 7% on poolside visits in comparison to last year. Visitor Stats Summary: Out of State v NI
2017 2016
NI 52% 73%
Out of State 48% 27%
2017 saw an increase in out of state by 21% Retail income
£s April – Oct 2017
Target 2017
Against Target
April – Oct 2017
Against Previous Year
Total income (ex VAT)
£4,120.00 £2,600 +58% £3086.13 +34%
Visitor spend was up 34% against the previous year and 58% against target. The majority of sales were via low priced “novelty” children’s goods, due to the nature of the attraction and identified customer demand. Entertainment programme The programme included weekend music and children’s entertainment. In addition, two family fun days were held on Easter Sunday and on the weekend before Hallowe’en. The seasonal programme of entertainment also included an element in partnership with the Ulster-Scots Agency, who funded Scottish themed entertainment on Sundays during July and August. This is the fourth successful year of this partnership. Group Tours In addition to generic visits to the attraction, the cottages offered local groups, (schools, nursery schools, historical groups), bespoke pre-arranged visits involving
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history talks, nature talks and arts and crafts activities. There were an estimated four visits throughout the season. European Heritage Open Day For the first time the Cottages were open on two extra days as part of the annual EHOD programme. This brought an additional 668 visitors, accounting for 4% of the season’s visitors. 2018 Planning Entertainment for the 2018 season is currently being finalised with provisional booking subject to budgets being set. New entertainment has been sourced and added to the programme – this will include a new magician, traditional basket weaving, mobile farm unit, blacksmith, crazy golf and sand art. The Ulster-Scots Agency has indicated that, subject to budget setting, it would hope again to support the Cockle Row Cottages programme in 2018. Having this booked early allows a greater lead time for promotion. British Trust for Ornithology Once again, in conjunction with the British Trust for Ornithology, the cottages offered groups and visitors the opportunity to learn about the bird life on Cockle Island via a live video stream from the island. This will continue in 2018 subject to BTO’s equipment being renewed. Portaferry Visitor Information Centre, Portaferry Opening times April, May, June and September (Monday-Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sunday 1- 5pm). July and August (Monday–Saturday 10am–5.30pm and Sunday 12 – 5pm). Enquiries and Visitors:
Enquiry and visitor type
April – September 2017
Target 2017
Against Target
April – September 2016
Against previous yr
Counter 8467 7923
Visitors 1280 2281
Phone/email/letter 270 338
Total 10,017 7,000 +43% 10,542 -5%
Enquiries and visitors surpassed target by 43%, reflecting the fact that activity in the village continues to grow, with large annual events such as Portaferry Gala Week and the continued programmes in the Loft Gallery and Portico. It is likely that continued popularity and development of the Exploris offering and promotion by the Portaferry Hotel have also driven an increase in footfall.
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Visitor Stats Summary - Out of State v NI
2017 2016
NI 69% 66%
Out of State 31% 34%
Out of state was down a minimal -3% Retail income
£s April – Sept 2017
Target 2017
Against Target
April – Sept 2016
Against Previous Year
Total income (ex VAT)
£3,272 £3,300 -1% £3665 -11%
Retail income was down on target but in real terms by only £28. The range of goods varies from low value children’s items and souvenirs to higher priced books. Entertainment programme The Loft Gallery hosted six exhibitions by local artists and crafts which attracted additional visitors. Sales totaled £606.60. The 2018 Art in the Loft exhibitions are currently in the planning stages and details will be ready for the launch of the Council’s Spring/Summer Experiences and Events guide in March 2018. The Saturday entertainment generated 1213 visitors over the nine Saturdays in July and August. This was however down 14% on 2016, potentially due to Exploris now being fully operational and a bigger attraction. The entertainment planned for 2018 will be closely monitored as to the numbers generated and if there is a further decline may be reduced to Public Holidays only. It is planned that Exploris will promote the VIC’s activities as an added boost to the Portaferry experience with the aim of increasing potential dwell time in the village. 2018 Planning Entertainment for the 2018 season is currently being finalised, with provisional bookings subject to budgets being set. New entertainment has been sourced and added to the programme, with this early booking allowing a greater lead time for promotion. It is anticipated, on confirmation by Ards Crafts, that there will be programmed exhibitions in the Loft Gallery of local art and crafts, subject to confirmation of budgets. The Stables exhibition is to be refurbished for the start of the season, out of existing revenue budgets for 2017/18. This will update and improve the visitor offering. In addition the Saddlery will see completion of a “children’s space” for activities and entertainment. Both Centres retained 3* Tourism NI Grading, the highest available for sites of their type.
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It should be noted that planning for both VICs is being undertaken as part of a VIC Review, within which all services, opening times and ability to reach visitors in the borough are being considered. The VIC Review will be finished at the end of January and findings will be reported to Council post its completion.
RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Council notes the above report.
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ITEM 11
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Regeneration and Development
Date of Meeting 07 December 2017
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Temporary Head of Tourism
Date of Report 24 November 2017
File Reference TO/TD15
Legislation n/a
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Other ☐
If other, please add comment below:
Subject Tourism Service Unit Plan 2017-18 Performance Report Quarter 2
Attachments None
Context Members will be aware that Council is required, under the Local Government Act 2014, to have in place arrangements to secure continuous improvement in the exercise of its functions. To fulfil this requirement Council approved the Performance Management Policy and Handbook in October 2015. The Performance Management Handbook outlines the approach to Performance Planning and Management process as:
Community Plan – published every 10-15 years
Corporate Plan – published every 4 years (2015-2019 plan in operation)
Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) – published annually (2017/18 plan published 15 June 2017)
Service Plan – developed annually (approved April 2017) The Corporate Plan 2015-19 sets out 17 objectives for the plan period based on themes of People, Place, Prosperity and Performance. The Council’s 16 Service
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Plans outline how each respective Service will contribute to the achievement of the Corporate objectives including, but not limited to, any relevant actions identified in the PIP. Reporting approach The Service Plans will be reported to relevant Committees on a quarterly basis as undernoted:
Reference Period Reporting Month
Quarter 1 (Q1) April – June September
Q2 July – September December
Q3 October – December March
Q4 January - March June
The report for the second Quarter of 2017/18 is attached. Key points to note:
A significant underspend continued in quarter 2, due to a number of staff vacancies within the unit.
The target for attendance has been missed due one staff member on long term sickness. This is being monitored in accordance with the appropriate HR guidance and policy.
Total visitor spend to the Borough was reported in Quarter 1. It is an annual target but data is relevant to the season 2016, so it is reported early in the year.
Key achievements:
The Tourism Events unit delivered 9 events by the second quarter. The overall event attendees target for Quarter 2 was exceeded by 12%.
PR secured for destination and event activity has exceeded the target set for half year at £175,436. Actual PR of £484,112 secured.
Attendees at events supported through Council Tourism Grants have performed strongly in Q2. Annual target is 74,425, by end Q2 attendees have reached 97,000.
Emerging issues:
The necessity to realise accommodation, product/experience and event development in the area, in accordance with Integrated Tourism, Regeneration and Development Strategy outputs.
Action to be taken:
Ensure that the full staffing structure is implemented as soon as possible. Continue to monitor one member of staff on long term absence.
RECOMMENDATION
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It is recommended that the Council notes this report.
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Quarterly Performance Report - Tourism
Generated on: 24 November 2017
Last Update Q2 2017/18 Performance Data Traffic Light Icon
PI Short Name Performance Data
Current Value
Performance Data
Current Target
Engagement points with tourism industry via face to face and digital channels 2 2
% spend against budget 83% 100%
% attendance 89.77% 95%
Number of attendees at events 140,500 125,000
Total £ visitor spend to Borough (NISRA statistics for 2016) £46,000,000.00
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ITEM 12
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Regeneration and Development
Date of Meeting 07 December 2017
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Service
Head of Regeneration
Date of Report 16 November 2017
File Reference 160127
Legislation
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Other ☐
If other, please add comment below:
Subject Regeneration Unit Performance Report - Quarter 2
Attachments Report
Context Members will be aware that Council is required, under the Local Government Act 2014, to have in place arrangements to secure continuous improvement in the exercise of its functions. To fulfil this requirement Council approved the Performance Management Policy and Handbook in October 2015. The Performance Management Handbook outlines the approach to Performance Planning and Management process as:
Community Plan – published every 10-15 years
Corporate Plan – published every 4 years (2015-2019 plan in operation)
Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) – published annually (2017/18 plan published 15 June 2017)
Service Plan – developed annually (approved April 2017) The Corporate Plan 2015-19 sets out 17 objectives for the plan period based on themes of People, Place, Prosperity and Performance. The Council’s 16 Service Plans outline how each respective Service will contribute to the achievement of the
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Corporate objectives including, but not limited to, any relevant actions identified in the PIP. Reporting approach The Service Plans will be reported to relevant Committees on a quarterly basis as undernoted:
Reference Period Reporting Month
Quarter 1 (Q1) April – June September
Q2 July – September December
Q3 October – December March
Q4 January - March June
The report for the second Quarter of 2017/18 is attached. Key points to note:
A large underspend is developing mainly due to two posts remaining unfilled. This will be restructured once the Strategy is finalised.
DfC grant was also received for revitalisation works carried out last year but was unable to be accrued.
No urban regeneration projects have been undertaken due to budget issues within DfC. The Council’s budget, which was to be used for match funding, therefore remains unspent at present.
Key achievements:
Collaboration work with the various Chamber of Commerce is ongoing.
Projects receiving funding under the Rural Development programme have commenced.
Emerging issues:
The lack of Central Government budgets is seriously affecting the development of projects within the urban area.
As yet no development agreement has been signed with the preferred bidder for the Queen’s Parade project.
Town Steering Groups have accepted that new masterplans are required as most of the identified projects within the town centre shopping cores have been completed.
With DfC now recognising Ballygowan and Portaferry as small towns in relation to funding, consideration is now required as to how this will be transposed into developing projects and how this will affect any funding that may be available via the Rural Development Scheme.
Action to be taken:
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Continue to work with DfC officials to ascertain if any projects can be undertaken in this financial year.
Discuss with Town Steering Groups how to develop the Masterplans.
RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Council notes this report.
