REPORT TO: Cabinet Member Regeneration Cabinet DATE: 30 th ... R… · 4 1.0 Background 1.1 The...

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REPORT TO:

Cabinet Member Regeneration Cabinet

DATE:

30th September 2009 1st October 2009

SUBJECT:

Sefton Business Village Partnership Reports (29th July 2009 Meeting)

WARDS AFFECTED:

All

REPORT OF:

Andy Wallis – Planning and Economic Regeneration Director

CONTACT OFFICER:

Mo Kundi 3447

EXEMPT/ CONFIDENTIAL:

No

PURPOSE/SUMMARY: To inform Members of the activities undertaken by Sefton Business Village Partnerships

REASON WHY DECISION REQUIRED: To comply with standard portfolio reporting procedures.

RECOMMENDATION(S): It is recommended that:-

1. The content of report be noted, and that 2. When appropriate further reports on activities undertaken by Sefton

Business Village Partnerships be presented.

KEY DECISION:

No

FORWARD PLAN:

No

IMPLEMENTATION DATE:

N/A

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ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: Sefton Business Village Partnerships have been operating since 2002, with funding from the Regional Development Agency, Sefton Council, relevant Parish Councils, and the private sector, and have proved to be very successful vehicle for partnership working between the public sector, the local business community, and the voluntary sector for developing and delivering projects that benefit the business community and the public realm. The alternative option of not continuing Sefton Business Village Partnerships, would lead to loss of business engagement, the loss of valuable and free expertise that the business and the voluntary sectors bring to the table, and critically Sefton Council’s ability to demonstrate business sector involvement as part of the Comprehensive Area Assessment regulations.

IMPLICATIONS:

Budget/Policy Framework:

Financial: There are no financial implications as a result of this report.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

2008/ 2009 £

2009/ 2010 £

2010/ 2011 £

2011/ 2012 £

Gross Increase in Capital

Expenditure

Funded by:

Sefton Capital Resources

Specific Capital Resources

REVENUE IMPLICATIONS

Gross Increase in Revenue

Expenditure

Funded by:

Sefton funded Resources

Funded from External Resources

Does the External Funding have an expiry

date? Y/N

When?

How will the service be funded post expiry?

Legal:

N/A

Risk Assessment: N/A

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Asset Management:

N/A

CONSULTATION UNDERTAKEN/VIEWS:- FD 110 - The Finance and Information Services Director has been consulted and has no comments on this report. Legal.

CORPORATE OBJECTIVE MONITORING:

Corporate Objective

Positive Impact

Neutral Impact

Negative Impact

1 Creating a Learning Community /

2 Creating Safe Communities /

3 Jobs and Prosperity /

4 Improving Health and Well-Being /

5 Environmental Sustainability /

6 Creating Inclusive Communities /

7 Improving the Quality of Council Services and Strengthening local Democracy

/

8 Children and Young People

/

LIST OF BACKGROUND PAPERS RELIED UPON IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS REPORT Report to Cabinet Member (Regeneration) 10th June 2009, and the Cabinet 11th June 2009 entitled ‘Sefton Business Village Partnership Reports’.

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1.0 Background 1.1 The Cabinet Member for Regeneration at his meeting on 10th June 2009,

and the Cabinet at its meeting on 11th June 2009 considered a report entitled ‘Sefton Business Village Partnership Reports’. The report provided background into the establishment of Business Village Partnerships in Southport, Birkdale, Formby, Crosby, Waterloo, Bootle, and Altside, which covers the four Town/Parish Councils of Maghull, Aintree, Lydiate and Melling.

1.2 The Report also provided information on the aims and objectives of

Business Village Partnerships, their unique working arrangements involving the public sector organisations, local businesses, and the community, and critically the range of projects that various partnerships develops and delivers. Attached to the said report was an Annex that included reports on activities undertaken by each of the eight Business Village Partnerships to the overarching Sefton Business Village Partnership Board that meets four times a year.

1.3 Members consider the Report and requested that when appropriate

further reports on activities undertaken by Sefton Business Village Partnerships be presented.

2.0 Further Update 2.1 The overarching Sefton Business Village Partnership Board met on 29th

July 2009 to consider the latest reports submitted by each of the local partnerships, copies of which are attached as Annex A to this report.

3.0 Proposal 3.1 It is proposed that:-

• The content of the report be noted, and

• Further reports on activities undertaken by Sefton Business Village Partnerships be presented.

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ANNEX A

Sefton Business Village

Partnership

Wednesday 29th July 2009 Southport Town Hall

Starting at 3.00pm

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Agenda

Page No.

1. Introduction/Apologies

2. Minutes of meetings held on 28th April 2009 3

3. Southport Business Enterprise - Jim Breen 9

4. Birkdale Business Village Partnership - Steve Booth 20

5. Formby Partnership - Nicky Owen 24

6. Crosby Business Village Partnership - Nicky Owen 26

7. Waterloo Traders Association - Derek Sarath 30

8. Bootle Town Centre Management - Chris White 35

9. Altside Business Village Partnership - John Keogh 37

10. Sefton Business Against Crime Partnership - Steve Booth 41

11. Sefton Business Village Partnership - Mo. Kundi 45

12. AOB

13. Dates and Venues of next meeting:

• 27th October 2009 Southport Town Hall (Churchtown Room) @ 3.00pm

• 20th January 2010 Bootle Town Hall (Committee Room1) @ 3.00pm

• 21st April 2010 Southport Town Hall (Birkdale Room) @ 3.00pm

• 21st July 2010 Bootle Town Hall (Committee Room) @ 3.00pm

• 20th October 2010 Southport Town Hall (Birkdale Room) @ 3.00pm

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Sefton Business Village Partnership

Notes of meeting held 28th April 2009 at

Southport Town Hall

Present:-

Margaret Carney Sefton MBC Chair

Councillor Robertson Sefton MBC

Mo Kundi Sefton MBC

Sue Dare Chair, Mktg Group SBE/ Champion Group

Catherine Caddick Chair, Crosby BVP/Caddick Jewellers

Les French Chair, Altside BVP/ Emerson

Chris White Manager, BTCM

John Keogh Manager, Altside BVP

Nicky Owen Manager, Formby and Crosby BVPs

Rob Uffendell Chair, Birkdale BVP

Gill Fell Chair, Formby Partnership

Jim Breen Manager, SBE

Steve Booth Manager, SBAC and Birkdale BVP

Apologies:-

Bob Greenhalgh Chair, BTCM/Strand Shopping Centre

Stuart Roberts Chair, SBE/Specsavers

Janet Barnet Chair, Waterloo Traders Association

Steve Dickson Sefton Chamber of Commerce

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1. Southport Business Enterprise

Board and Staff Issues

The Southport Business Enterprise is again participating in the STERLINK

student exchange programmes with Mons, Belgium, and final year

student, Charles Marchal has joined SBE for three months.

Business and Retail Strategy

As part of the Indoor Market Hall development, SBE as the Town Centre

Management function will be undertaking a detailed business consultation

exercise. One possible site being explored that could provide a temporary

venue for the market whilst the Indoor Market is being refurbished is

Fabric Warehouse on King Street. This site is also being explored as a

temporary site for the Library, whilst the main Library building is being

refurbished. SBE is currently seeking further clarifications on the relocation

of New Look Store from Marble Place to the former Woolworth Store site

on Chapel Street.

Action – Jim Breen

The ‘Wish You Were Here’ Document for marketing and promoting

Southport as a place for potential developer and retailers to relocate to

was prepared in 2006. This is now needs refreshing, the cost of which is

estimated as £6,000. Potential source of funding is currently being

explored.

Action – Mo Kundi

Marketing

In response to the current economic downturn, and its adverse impact on

town centres, Southport Business Enterprise in partnership with a range of

stakeholders have developed a ‘I Love Southport’ Campaign. The aim of

this campaign, which includes free parking in Park and Ride sites, and

events, is to retain local residents shopping in Southport and to attract

visitors and shoppers from within 90 minutes. In addition, SBE is also

undertaking a ‘Window Dressing’ Campaign in order to make ‘attractive’

the vacant shops in the town centre, and to prevent anti-social behaviour.

Action – Jim Breen

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2. Birkdale Business Village Partnership

In light of the current economic downturn, the Partnership is seeking a

more pro-active approach to marketing and promotion of the Village if it

were to remain vibrant and dynamic. Board members have sought pledges

from local business to enable 60 hanging baskets to be erected in the

village. The Partnership is also looking to hold two street events, one in

summer and the other near Christmas.

Action – Steve Booth

Local Ward Members, who are on the Partnership Board, are heavily

involved in the work of the partnership, and have pledged approximately

£2,000 towards these events.

3. Formby Partnership

Formby Partnership has been very pro-active since its resurrection some

six months ago. The Partnership, which has a new Chair, Gill Fell, consists

of local traders, representatives from the Parish Council, Formby Area

Committee, and the Police.

The aim of the Partnership is to build on existing projects by generating

new ideas and actions and increase community activity by working with

groups and individuals.

The Chair has already set up a new business network, and is assisting the

Youth Sports Ambassador for Range School and Bootle Club to launch

‘Ultimate Frisbee’, a new sport. The Partnership is planning to hold its first

Music Festival in Formby in July or August.

Action – Nicky Owen

4. Crosby + Waterloo BPV

The Partnership, as part of the economic downturn has been lobbying

Sefton Council to provide some form of assistance to businesses in the

Village. The Village has seen a significant down turn, not only due to the

economic situation but also because the proposed development by Maghull

Group is now on hold, and Sainsbury’s expansion of their store is likely to

take some time. All this is causing some blight in the Village.

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The proposal by Sefton Council to provide free parking on Saturday’s was

very welcomed by the Partnership, and an event was held in the Village,

which was heavily promoted in the local press.

5. Waterloo Traders

The Partnership meets on a monthly basis, and in order to raise the profile

of the area a number of activities have been taking place, including the

erection of Street Plans showing all the individual businesses in the area;

the publication of Waterloo Shopping Guide; the development of a Shop

Waterloo Website; and the active participation of traders in the Britain in

Bloom competition

The Partnership is exploring possible events that could be held in the

Waterloo area to increase local footfall.

6. Bootle Town Centre Management Partnership

Brand Bootle

The Partnership launched the ‘Bootle-all together better’ brand, which is

now incorporated into Marketing material for the Stella Nova Building, as

well as Bus Stop Advertising and Mail out material, and on Delta Taxis.

Events

The Partnership has held three events, including Valentine’s celebration,

and Spring Shopping promotion. All three events were heavily marketed

and promoted, with local businesses participating.

On 30th April, the Partnership will be holding Bootle all together better

Awards, and planning is in place to hold Bootle Festival and Christmas

events.

Action – Chris White

7. Altside BVP

The Partnership has recently restructured its working arrangements to

order to be more effective in responding to changing environment and

workload. It has also re-defined its core aims and objectives.

Tourism

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The Partnership presented the case for a Marina and a Camping and

Caravanning Club to both Lydiate Parish Council, and Maghull Town

Council. Both were received positively, with the two Councils proving

written support for them.

The inaugural meeting of the Frank Hornby Trust was held on 19th March

and at that meeting the Trust agreed to submit an application for funding

to the ‘Awards for All’

Events

The Partnership is planning its annual Hornby Exhibition and an additional

event the Music Festival this year.

Action – John Keogh

8. Sefton Business Against Crime Partnership (SBAC)

The Partnership currently manages two BAC schemes in Sefton, one in

Southport, and the other in Bootle. Requests have also been received from

Formby to establish a similar scheme.

Crime figures for the period Oct 08 to Dec 08 showed an encouraging

significant drop in Retail offences within Southport, which went against the

trend for Merseyside for the same period.

9. Sefton BVP

Lydiate Village Centre

Subject to sorting out the legal agreement between Sefton Council and

Lydiate Parish Council, construction is expected to start on site in May.

Looking After Town Centre

Central Government recently published a guide entitled ‘Looking After Our

Town Centres’. The aim of this guide is to offer practical help in assisting

town centres to reach their full potentials, even in tough times. This

coincides with ‘quick win’ proposals put forward by Sefton Business Village

Partnerships.

Rural Development Programme for England and Rural Economy

Action Plan

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The Rural Development Programme for England is successor to the

European Objective 1 Programme, but incorporates national priorities and

funding. Whilst most of the £3.9 billion grant is allocated to improving

agri-environment and other land management schemes, however some

£2.2 million is available to Merseyside sub-region for tourism and farm

diversification schemes.

Consultants ‘Rural Innovation’ have been appointed to develop the

Merseyside Rural Economy Action Plan. This study is based on the premise

that Merseyside’s rural areas collectively represent an undervalued and

under-exploited asset with significant economic development potential.

The Regional Development Agency is part funding this study, and has

indicated that projects emanating from this Action Plan would be eligible

for grant funding from £2 million already allocated.

Funding Opportunities

The report provided a detailed breakdown of the current funding

opportunities from the various European Programmes as well as national

funding sources such as the Regional development Agency and the

Lottery.

Work is currently under way to explore potential projects that could be

developed to attract some of these funds.

Action – Mo Kundi

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Southport Business Enterprise

29th April 2009

TITLE OF REPORT

Southport Business Enterprise Partnership - Progress Report No. 31

AUTHOR OF REPORT

Jim Breen - Southport Business Enterprise Manager

PURPOSE OF REPORT

The purpose of this report is to advise the Sefton Business Village Partnership of

the progress made to date by the Southport Business Enterprise Partnership.

RECOMMENDATIONS

It is recommended that the Partnership:-

• Note the content of the report.

• Note the projects proposed/planned for the year 2009/10 delivery plan

• Note the current progress of these projects.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS (IF ANY)

These are addressed in the Sefton BVP report, which is part of these papers.

CURRENT ACTIVE PROJECTS FOR 2009/10

Southport Business Enterprise Working Groups meet regularly. SBE outputs are

to increase numbers of businesses, jobs, visitors, visitor spend, and enhance the

environment and safety of Southport’s town centre.

SBE Working Groups contain members from the public and private sectors and

are focused on achieving the above outputs through the project activities

described in this report.

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MANAGEMENT AND ADMIN

SBE Annual General Meeting

SBE held its AGM on the 9th July, 2009 at Southport Town Hall.

Key outcomes of that meeting were as follows:

SBE board changes:-

Stuart Roberts, franchise holder for Specsavers Southport and Formby, resigned

as Chair but will continue to sit on the board. Sue Dare, Champion Newspapers,

was elected Chair, and Yvonne Burns, Wayfarers Arcade was elected Vice-Chair.

New private sector SBE board members elected were; Claire Edwards, Manager,

Debenhams; Tony Brough, Brough’s Butchers, Dave Rimmer, Manager,

Sainsbury’s, and Anthony Weldon from Packit.

New Sefton Councilor Members appointed to SBE by Sefton Council’s Cabinet are

Cllrs Lord Fearn, Brenda Porter, and Les Byrom.

Temporary Vacancy/Voluntary Positions

Due to the current hiring freeze, there has had a long-standing vacancy for the

role of Administrative Assistant. SBE has been approached by a Southport

resident and recent graduate of Lancaster University, Kerry Moore, who is

interested in pursuing a career in Planning and Economic Regeneration.

We have agreed with Kerry to begin a part-time, voluntary administrative role

with SBE, which will provide her with valuable insight into this field, and SBE with

much needed office support.

BUSINESS AND RETAIL STRATEGY WORKING GROUP

Former Waitrose Site – Tulketh Street

SBE is in regular contact with the site’s letting agent, Mowbray Gill. There is

ongoing interest from several potential tenants at this stage.

Market Hall

Following earlier reports looking at potential options for the future of the Market

Hall, Sefton Council has decided to invest £3.2 million in significant upgrades to

the Market Hall and to partially pedestrianise Market Street.

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SBE and the Southport Partnership organised a public consultation on the design

proposals, which are still at the conceptual stage. The consultation was held at

the Vincent Hotel on 15th June, where Tony Corfield presented the plans to an

audience of Market stallholders, local business, residents, and other interested

parties.

A broad range of feedback was received and it is planned to review this and

where possible feed it into the Market plans and report back in a follow-up

consultation to be held later this year.

Iceland Site- King Street

SBE is not aware of any new interests in this site, which has received outline

planning permission for redevelopment. However it could still be a few years

before redevelopment due to existing tenants, whose current lease still has

several years to run.

Southport Investment Strategy (SIS)

SBE is the thematic leader for Chapter 2 of the SIS, Town Centre Management.

This group’s work very closely related to Chapter 1, the Visitor Economy and the

Chapter 3, the Natural and Built Environment.

It is now becoming clear that, for these groups to achieve certain of their

respective key objectives, an effective working relationship with property owners

on Lord Street and Chapel Street needs to be established. Property ownership

information is now being collected and this will lead to establishing contacts with

this diverse group. These property owner relationships will be necessary to

achieving the following SIS objectives;

o Management of Lord Street as Southport’s unique “jewel in the

crown”

o Initiating a Business Improvement District

o Creating England’s finest street –Lord Street

o Immaculate buildings and pristine public spaces

Retail Strategy Review Update - White Young Green

Sefton Council’s retained consultants, White Young Green (WYG), have recently

completed their retail strategy review update.

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WYG concludes that for Southport to remain competitive ‘This will require a

positive pro-active approach to be adopted by the Council to actively seek to

identify realistic and achievable development opportunities which could be

delivered to the market when the economy begins to emerge from the current

recession.’

SBE, along with other partners involved in the SIS and regeneration, believes this

is now an urgent priority if Southport is to achieve its SIS objectives and improve

its retail competitiveness.

The first step in progressing this priority is to have a detailed study which can

specify the needs for extra retail floorspace in Southport town Centre and help

identify an appropriate strategy to meet that demand including the identification

of sites and a strategic approach to bring them forward.

More information is provided on the retail health check 2009 for Southport and

Bootle town centres, and the request to Sefton Cabinet, due to meet on 6th

August, for the appointment of external consultants to undertake this study.

Former Woolworth’s site-Chapel Street

There are several indications that this site will be occupied by a quality retailer in

the coming months. Further details on this will be provided verbally at the

meeting.

MARKETING WORKING GROUP

“I Love Southport” Campaign

The main elements of this campaign, “ I Love Southport” were:

o A loyalty scheme that would encourage local shoppers to use a broad of

town centre shops.

o A PR campaign in selected media within 90 minutes drive time of

Southport.

o A Park & Ride promotion (free on weekends from March-May) that would

be an added incentive to attract shoppers.

The funding for this campaign was provided by the Southport Area Committee

(£5250) and the 40 retailers participating in the loyalty scheme (£1,000). This

campaign has been promoted by local press, radio, and Sefton Council PR.

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The campaign concluded at the end of May and SBE is in the process of collecting

retailer feedback on its effectiveness.

A brief report on this feedback will be presented at the Sefton BVP steering group

meeting on the 29th July. A copy of the consultation questionnaire is attached to

this report below.

‘Window Dressing Campaign’

Linked to the above campaign is the need to undertake some action with regard

to a number of empty shops in the town centre.

Since the last SBE report, there have been positive developments regarding a

number of vacant shops, which have now been occupied, or are due to become

occupied later this year.

SBE is planning to install images in the former Viyella shop at 445 Lord Street on

23rd July. Copies of the images are attached at the end of this report.

Discussions are taking place with owners of other empty properties, but SBE must

report limited success. This is mainly due to the fact that most key vacant

properties on Lord Street and Chapel Street are owned and managed by non-local

owners and agents whose sole priority is to re-let the property. They see no

benefit in spending time and resources organising access to their property for the

purpose of installing images of Southport.

ENVIRONMENT AND SAFETY

A separate report by the SBAC Coordinator, Steve Booth, is elsewhere on the

Agenda.

Chapel Street Management Group

The monthly Southport Farmers Market has been held on Town Hall Gardens on

the last Thursday of the month for several years. This location does not provide

the high retail footfall that the Market needs to prosper. This has resulted in a

steady reduction in the number of stall holders to about 10, a very low level that

threatens the sustainability of the Market.

Following consultation with our stakeholders, Market stallholders, Civic Buildings

team, and relevant Chapel Street retailers, we are planning to move the Market

to Chapel Street, effective 30th July, which is the next Market date. We are only

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allowing the usual 10 to 12 stallholders to this first event. This is in order to keep

numbers low for the first Market to "bed in" in the new location.

This new location is expected to provide the footfall to enable the Market to grow,

attract more stallholders, and thereby attract more visitors/customers for our

retailers.

All other market management operations, which are provided by Sefton Council's

Civic Buildings team, will remain the same.

The longer term aim is to build up the quality and variety of the Farmers Market

over the next year or two, and then return it to it’s original home, outside an

enhanced Southport Market Hall, where it will grow further in quality and variety.

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20th July 2009

Dear Store Manager,

Economic Downturn and its Impact on Local Businesses

As you will be aware the global economic downturn is having a major impact on

businesses to access credit, and is pushing the national economy deeper into recession.

There are indications that this recession is likely to be longer and deeper than originally

predicted. Locally the impact of the recession is probably more visible in town and retail

centres, where there has been a significant increase in the number of vacant shop

premises.

Recognising these problems, Sefton Business Village Partners, which is a partnership

between local businesses and Sefton Council, undertook early this year a consultation

exercise with representatives of the retail sector, in order to identify possible short term

measures that could be implemented very quickly to assist retail areas in Sefton. Within

Southport town centre, the Southport Business Enterprise was asked to develop and

implement the following measures:-


Source of Funding Activity or

Campaign

Start

Date

Completion

date

Total

Cost Sefton

Council

Local

Businesses

Comments

I Love

Southport

1/3/09 7/6/09 £6,250 £5,250 £1000

Free Park

& Ride

1/3/09 7/6/09 £30,000 £0

The above activities together with allocated funding has now come to an end, and in order

for Southport Business Enterprise to assess the impact of the activities undertaken, and to

explore future options, I would be very grateful if you could fill the attached questionnaire.

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Also, SBE runs a regular series of programmes during the year. Please provide comments

on these activities as requested.

Activity Increase

customers

Decrease

Customers

No

Change

Other comments

Monthly

Farmers

Market

Biannual

Continental

Market

Children’s

Rides/ school

holidays


Questionnaire

Activity – Free Park and Ride

Q1 Were you aware that Park and Ride was free on weekends

between March and May?

Yes No

Q2 If yes did you or your staff use the free Park and Ride facilities

on weekends?

Yes No

Q3 If no can you give some reasons as to why not:-

Q4 Were most of your customers aware that Park and Ride was free

on weekends between March and May?

Yes No

Q4 If yes did your customers use the free Park and Ride facilities? Yes No

Q5 If no did your customers say why not:-

Q6 As a result of free weekend Park and Ride facilities,

would you say that your customer numbers:-

Increased Decreased No

Change

Q7 If increased, would you say these customers were

from:-

Southport Merseyside Other

areas

Q8 Would you say that the impact of having free

weekend Park and Ride facilities was generally

Positive Negative Same

Q9 If possible would you like to see special periods when Park and

Ride facilities are free?

Yes No

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Activity – “I Love Southport” Loyalty Scheme - £1000 prize draw.

Q1 Were you aware of the “I Love Southport”

campaign £1000 prize draw between March and

May?

Yes No

Q2 If yes do you feel that most of your customers

were aware of this prize draw?

Yes No

Q3 As a result of the prize draw would you say that

your customer numbers:-

Increased Decreased No

change

Q4 Would you say that the impact of having the £1000

prize draw was generally

Positive Negative No

change

Q5 If possible would you like to see other retail

promotions of this type?

Yes No

Q6 Are there any specific promotion or campaign ideas

you feel would be particularly effective?

Yes No

If yes please provide a brief description:-

Either myself, or a colleague from Southport Enterprise will pick up the completed

questionnaire tomorrow.

Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me or Steve

Booth on 01704 512215.

Yours sincerely,

Jim Breen

Manager

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Proposed ‘Window Dressing’

Lord Street, Southport

Former Viyella Site - artists impression

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Birkdale Business Village Partnership

29th July 2009

TITLE OF REPORT

Birkdale Business Village Update July 2009

AUTHOR OF REPORT

Steve Booth - Birkdale Business Village Manager

PURPOSE OF REPORT

The purpose of this report is top provide the Sefton Business Village Partnership with an

over view of Birkdale Business Village Partnership

RECOMMENDATIONS

It is recommended that the Partnership

• Note the content of the report

Current Status

Birkdale traders were given the opportunity to purchase hanging baskets for display

outside their businesses which were on a 50 -50 basis. The business would buy a basket

for £25, and there would be a £25 grant from the Civic Society, which would pay for the

upkeep by Sefton Council.

The village has responded positively to this initiative and to date there are 38 baskets that

have been purchased by the group in the village, - which was visited by the “Britain in

Bloom” judges on July 16th

“Birkdale Fun Day” took place on July 18th and was an outstanding success.

The weather was warm and sunny which helped immensely and it was estimated that over

2000 people came to the village for the event The live performers were of a extremely

high quality and several of them received requests for bookings at the event.

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Financial contributions were made by the Southport Area Committee, Fairground Rides,

Stallholders, (stalls representing charities and local traders were exempt from

contribution) and outside catering facilities, which helped to offset the cost of the event.

Annex A attached provides a detailed breakdown of expenditure and income for ‘Birkdale

Fun Day’ event.

A quick anecdotal survey was undertaken to asses the views of the village on this event

and on holding future events, there were no issues of major concerns and almost all the

feedback was positive with the traders keen to hold another event. A copy of an e-mail

attached as Annex B to this report shows a positive response to the event held.

Members would be pleased to learn that Dowhigh Ltd, were very supportive of the event

and administered the road closure on the day.

Future Plans

Funding has been secured for the erection of several solar powered Christmas trees to be

placed on the lampposts in the Birkdale/ Hillside area. These trees have been used

successfully in other towns and villages, including Sefton and will enhance the overall

ambience of the area.

In light of the success of this event, the Partnership is now considering undertaking a

Christmas event, which is likely to be on 3r December 2009.

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ANNEX A

Current Finances are approximately as follows:-

Contributions from local Wards £1,990.00

Estimated Amount From Amusement Rides £350.00

Ice Cream Van Fee £140.00

Stall Holder Fees £60.00

------------

£2,540.00

Less Estimated Costs:

Temporary Events Licence £21.00

Road Closure £350.00

St John’s Ambulance £75.00

Banners x 3 (Inc Vat) £216.20

Newspapers Advert (Inc Vat) £266.80

Children’s Entertainer £150.00

Technical Costs Re Stage £500.00

Partnership Advert (Inc Vat) £109.25

Road Closure Signs(Inc Vat) £115.00

Hire of Tables £25.00 £1,828.25

----------- ------------

SURPLUS C/F £711.75

==========

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ANNEX B

A Response to the ‘Birkdale Fun Day’ Event.

From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: 19 July 2009 21:02

To: [email protected]

Subject: Birkdale Village Summer Festival

Congratulations, Rob, on a superb event.

Everyone I have spoken to (friends, family, neighbours and fellow traders)

have said how much they enjoyed and appreciated the event. I believe it’s

really put Birkdale Village back on the map!

On a personal note, my takings were amongst my best since launch in February

(and that includes The Cheshire Show, a two day event!) and the level of

interest shown by people in my products, flyers and business cards was

tremendous.

Councilor Hands even introduced me to John Pugh, our MP, which was

priceless.

I also want to thank you for allowing me the extra table, which really aided

my display and clearly contributed to my success.

I did feel a little guilty, however, when I was sipping my ice cold Peroni

outside Crystals whilst you and the rest of your team were still grafting

away. Hope you will forgive me!

I "kept it local" in the evening too, patronising a few of the local

hostelries, including a return visit to see Sandy at Crystals.

You have my full support for any future events.

Kind regards

Paul at

THE FAIR TRADE STORE

www.thefairtradestore.co.uk

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Formby Partnership

28th July 2009

Title of Report:

Formby Partnership - Progress Report No. 2

Author of Report:

Nicky Owen – Project Officer, Sefton MBC

Purpose of Report:

The purpose of this report is to advise the Sefton Business Village Partnership of the

progress made to date by Formby Partnership.

Recommendations:



• Note the current progress of projects

1. Partnership

This group consists of local traders, the Parish Council, the Police and Sefton Council. The

aim is to get some more traders and some more key partners onto this Group. The

Partnership has been meeting monthly but this will switch to bi-monthly from September.

2. Events

Ultimate Frisbee: this is now being organised through the Sefton Sports ambassador. It

will now not be a single event over the summer holiday but was in a number of schools

the last 2 weeks of the summer term.

Formby Live!: this is the first Formby Music Festival. It will be held over the 1st/2nd

August. On 1st August, in the evening, there will be live music in Woodward’s, Café D’art,

Quo Vardis, Chapel Bar and The Gallery. On Sunday 2nd August, in the afternoon, there

will be a free open-air music concert in the grounds of Formby Pool. There will be 7 acts

on the stage and other acts mingling with the crowd. The Mayor of Sefton has agreed to

formally open the event on Saturday at 6.30pm.

A breakdown of the estimated cost and sources of funding is attached as Annex A to this

report.

29

4. Communications

The partnership have been working on a number of ways to get information out about

what is already happening in Formby, as well as promoting new events.

Formby First: a website has been developed that promotes events within Formby.

Posters: information about current activities, either one-offs or weekly’s, has been

collated. Posters will be put on the Parish Council noticeboard, in the library and in other

Village locations.

Networking: Partnership Members attend both the Formby Business Forum and the Range

Forum.

Annex A

Details of Estimated Expenditure and Income

Item Est. Actual Potential

Inc.

Confirme

d Inc.

Comments

Tech. Equipment

Stage ) 400 400 SMBC

PA )

Acts

Bars 1,000 1,000 Bar contribution?

On Stage 400 400 Area Committee

Street Entertainers 300 300 Parish Council

Marketing

Posters 50 50 Area Committee

Leaflet 250 300 300 SMBC

Distribution 350 212.75 212.75 SMBC

Promo staff - Woodvale 50 50 Area Committee

Banners 200 180 180 Parish Council?

Miscellaneous

Stewards jackets 52.05 0 52.05 15 hi-vis vests SMBC

Staff Refreshments 100 0 100 Formby Pool

Act Refreshments 200 100 Supermarkets/ Gallery?

SMBC

Bin bags 10 0 10 Local trader?

Total 3362.05 692.75 1442.05 1712.75 1920

Total Spend (Estimated) 2,992.7

5

Total Income (Potential + Actual) 3154.8

30

Crosby Business Village Partnership

28th July 2009

Title of Report:

Crosby Business Village Partnership - Progress Report No.30

Author of Report:

Nicky Owen – Project Officer, Sefton MBC

Purpose of Report:


progress made to date by Crosby Village Traders Association.

Recommendations:


• Note the content of the report.

• Note the current progress of projects

Partnership

There is a range of traders involved in the Partnership, along with officers and Councillors

from Sefton MBC.

Events

Crosby Music Festival: took place over the weekend of 23rd – 25th May. Crosby BVP,

through the Economic Regeneration pot, contributed £700 towards the overall costs. The

event was very successful and brought approximately 25,000 people into the Village over

the 2 days.

Britain in Bloom: judges were in the village week beginning 13th July. Results will be

known by September.

Crosby Summer Food and Fun Festival: this will take place on Saturday 22nd August. The

proposals are to have a number of food stalls, mainly from local traders, children’s rides,

musical acts, a face painter and other activities. Further details will be brought to the

meeting.

Christmas Event: this will take place on Friday 27th November.

Parking

The 12 weeks of free Saturday parking in Crosby have now finished. Anecdotally traders

have stated that the scheme was successful. A questionnaire has now been prepared

(attached) and will be circulated to traders shortly.

31

Other Activity

Market: NO recently visited a farmers market in Christ Church, Waterloo. The potential

for this market to trade in Crosby Village is currently being investigated.

Children’s Rides: there were rides in the Village during the May half-term. There will

also be rides in the October half-term and for the Christmas lights switch-on. These

provide a source of income for activities.

Hoardings/Vacant Units: the Traders are looking at the potential to improve the

appearance of the Maghull Developments site. Proposals to grass-over the site and for

artwork on the hoardings have been costed. SMBC have now started discussions with the

Maghull Group re: funding. SMBC also need to have discussions with Sainsbury’s about

artwork on their hoardings.

32

Consultation Questionnaire

Crosby Business Village

C/o The Investment Centre 375 Stanley Road Bootle L20 3EF

Date: 20th July 2009 Our Ref: Your Ref: Please contact: Nicky Owen Contact Number: 0151 934 2691 Fax No: 0151 934 3480

Dear Store Manager, Economic Downturn and its Impact on Local Businesses

As you will be aware the global economic downturn is having a major impact on businesses. Locally the impact of the recession is probably more visible in town centres, where there has been a significant increase in the number of vacant shop premises. Recognising these problems Sefton Council, together with Crosby Village Traders Association, agreed to implement the following activity:

Source of Funding Activity Start

Date

Completion

date

Total Cost

Sefton

Council

Local

Businesses

Free Saturday Parking (from 10am)

Saturday 18th April

Saturday 4th July

10,500 10,000 500

Free parking event launch (fair rides/music)

Saturday 18th April

Saturday 18th April

900 650 250

Fair Rides Various Various 0 0 0 The above activity, together with allocated funding from Sefton MBC parking, has now come to an end. We now need to assess the impact of the free parking and to look at future options. To help with this I would be grateful if you could complete the attached questionnaire and return it either Jai or Catherine at Catherine Caddick Jewellers. Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me at Caddock’s Jewellers, or Nicky Owen on 0151 934 3480, Yours sincerely, Catherine Caddick

Chair – Crosby BVP

Nicky Owen

Manager - Crosby BV P

33

Crosby Business Village Questionnaire

Free Parking

1 Were you aware that there was free parking in Crosby Village between

18th April and 4th July? Yes No

2 Were most of your customers aware that Parking in the Village was free between these dates?

Yes No

3 If yes did your customers use the free parking? Yes No 4 If no did your customers say why not:-

5 As a result of the free parking, would you say that your customer numbers:-

Increased markedly

Increased slightly

Remained the same

6 If increased, would you say these customers were from:-

Crosby Merseyside Other areas

7 Would you say that the impact of having free parking was generally:-

Positive Same Negative

8 If possible would you like to see free parking in the Village during other events?

Yes No

9 How important is it that free Saturday parking is resumed? (where 1 is unimportant and 9 is very important)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 Are there any other comments that you would like to make about the free parking?

Free Parking Launch Event

1 Did you think that the launch event on 18th April

went well? Yes No

2 Were you aware of the launch event on 18th April?

Yes No

3 Were most of your customers aware of the launch event?

Yes No

4 Did your customers enjoy the launch event? Yes No 5 If no did your customers say why not?

6 As a result of the event would you say that your customer numbers:-

Increased Remained the same

Decreased



8 If possible would you like to see events in the Village at other times?

Yes No

9 Are there any other comments that you would like to make about the event?

Fair Rides

1 Do you like the fair rides being in the Village? Yes No 2 If no, why not?

3 Do your customers enjoy the fair rides being in the Village?

Yes No

34

4 If no did your customers say why not?

5 As a result of the fair rides would you say that your customer numbers:-

Increased Remained the same

Decreased



7 Are there any other comments that you would like to make about the fair rides?

Contact Details

Name:

Email Address:

Address:

Phone Number:

Would you be interested in joining the Crosby Village Traders Association:

Yes No Not sure

If you are interested in joining Crosby Village Traders Association the next meeting will take place on Monday 3rd August, 10.30am, in Sainsbury’s. All traders are welcome to attend.

35

Waterloo Business Village Partnership

29th July 2009

Title of Report:

Waterloo Business Village Partnership - Progress Report No. 30

Author of Report:

Derek Sarath – Project Officer, Sefton MBC

Purpose of Report:


progress made to date by Waterloo Business Village Partnership.

Recommendations:

It is recommended that the Partnership note the content of the report

Shop Waterloo Website

The website went live on 13 July 2009. A survey of the Traders was conducted to gather

Trader’s details for the site and approximately 50 traders responded and placed on the

website. Details were obtained for a further 110 traders from already published sources,

making a total of 160 business details on the site. Traders will shortly be asked for their

views on the website with the intention to update it where possible. Some initial feedback

has already been received which is complimentary. Further work needs to be done about

the content of the site and the on-going maintenance and direction.

Other Activity

Meetings: The Traders Group is now meeting on a monthly basis. The meetings are well

attended and lively. The group appears to be moving from: one that receives

presentations, to one with tasks that it will fulfil itself.

Survey: A recent survey was conducted on behalf of Waterloo BVP, a copy of the survey

questionnaire is attached together with the number of responses received. The survey

was sent out to known email addresses and this produced 8 responses, approximately

16%. With a small sample its difficult to read too much into the results. However, it

appears that:

1) Only 12.5% of traders knew a Waterloo Shopping Guide had been circulated to all

homes in the area via The Herald.

36

2) 50 % knew of the Shopping Street Guide Posters

3) 75% knew the website was going live.

4) 75% were aware that the Waterloo BVP meets and

5) Most people got enough notice of the meetings.

6) One response asked for more advance notice

7) 75% knew how to contact the BVP.

8) Only 12.5 % of business thought the measures taken had increased their profile

locally.

9) 100% of traders supported the measures taken.

11) Suggestions for activities for the BVP were:

• Research funding sources

• Promote website wider

• To advertise the area more

• Dress up empty shops

• Allow no more bars/eating places

• Improve car parking (already being worked on)

• Reduce rates (already being worked on)

• Increase police patrols

Business Rates: The BVP meeting has recently heard presentations about how business

rates are calculated. The group has appointed a sub-group with a view to seeking how to

change the rating valuation of the business premises in the St John’s Road/South Road

area. The sub-group has been offered some assistance in this from the Federation of

Small Businesses.

Planning Matters: A presentation has also been made by the Planning Section of SMBC

and this has led to a member of the BVP monitoring the Council web-site on behalf of the

Group and providing reports to the monthly meetings on new developments.

37

Traffic: The Traffic Services Manager for SMBC, Mr Dave Marrin, has made a presentation

to the BVP. As a result the BVP has recently formed a sub-group with a view to making a

proposal to the Area Committee for improvements in the parking in South Road and

neighbouring streets.

Night Time Economy and Security: Steve Booth of SMBC, who has responsibility for

issues relating to the Night Time Economy in Sefton, gave a presentation to the BVP on

steps that could be taken to improve security in shops and licensed premises.

Crime: The Neighbourhood Inspector, Mr Neil Turner has been invited to the last two

meetings however, due to existing work commitments has been unable to attend. He has

now been invited to the September meeting in order to give him more notice.

Events: The Christmas Event will start to be planned shortly. A local group, The Friends

of Old Christ Church has recently launched a successful indoor Farmers Market.

38

Annex A

Waterloo Business Village Partnership

Questionnaire

(Please indicate which answer you support)

Q1 Are you aware of the Waterloo Shopping Guide that was

circulated to all homes via the Crosby Herald?

Yes

1

No

7

Q2 Are you aware of the Waterloo Shopping Guide Street

Posters that have been displayed in the Waterloo area?

Yes

4

No

4

Q3 Are you aware of the Waterloo Shopping Website that

will go “live”shortly?

Yes

6

No

2

Q4 Are you aware of the Waterloo Business Village

Partnership that brings together traders from the St

Johns/South Road area once a month to discuss

common issues?

Yes

6

No

2

Q5 Do you get enough notice of the Waterloo Business

Village Partnership meetings?

Yes

7

No

1

Q6 What would make it easier for you to attend?

Q7 Would you like details of how to make contact with the

Waterloo Business Village Partnership?

Yes

6

No

2

Q8 Do you think that as a result of the activities above

your business has increased its profile locally?

Yes

1

No

7

Q9 Do you support the above activities?

Yes

8

No

0

Q10 If not, why not?

39

Q11 What more would you like to see the Business Village Group do to support

local business? Research funding sources, promote website, advertise the

area, improve empty shop fronts, no more bars/eating places, improve police

patrols, reduce rates.

Please return to Derek Sarath

[email protected]

40

July 2009

Title of Report

Bootle Town Centre Partnership Progress Report No. 5

Author of Report

Chris White Bootle Town Centre Manager

Purpose of Report

To advise the neighbouring Sefton Business Village Partnerships of the progress made to

date by Bootle Town Centre Partnership

1 Actions since last Meeting

1.1 Bootle All Together Better Awards 2009

The awards were well received and all who attended commented on the success of the

night. There has been great coverage by the local press, Echo, Bootle Times and BBC

Radio Merseyside.

1.2 Strand Green Week.

The Strand shopping Centre held a Green week. There were activities throughout the

week to encourage the community to recycle, eat well and be healthy.

To support businesses during this event I gave 11 businesses Jute re usable carriers to

give to customers and encourage the reduction in plastic carrier bag usage. Over 1500

bags were given out during the event and the businesses involved showed a 2% increase

in transactions.

1.3 Core Strategy Public Consultation.

I was asked by the Local planning team to facilitate a workshop about Town Centres

facilities for the Linacre and Derby wards.

1.4 LSP response to the Recession

I was asked to facilitate a workshop on Towns and Villages for the LSP response to the

recession event.

1.5 Visitbootle.com

41

195 businesses have been registered on the search facility of businesses in the town

centre.

1.6 Bootle Town Centre Partnership

A survey of members has led to a restructure of the Partnership and the creation of four

sub groups, Crime and Grime, Marketing and Digital, Employment, Education and

Investment, and Traders. There have been invites sent to all Stepclever projects working

in the town, and to 8 businesses for the next town centre partnership meeting.

A full action plan will be devised for the delivery of each sub group’s objectives.

1.7 Action Plan

The Action plan has been agreed by Stepclever and is now available on the

Visitbootle.com site.

1.8 Crime Reduction Manager

Trish delivered 7 target hardenings and 124 business supports in the Last quarter.

2.0 Current Activity

2.1 Planning is underway to deliver a Traders Market on Stanley Road in August. It is

hoped that 10 independent retailers will take the advantage of the opportunity to sell to

new customers and promote their business in a new way

2.2 Shopbootle.com

Work is underway and the new shopbootle.com website will be available by the end of

August. It will be a brochure style site with local businesses advertising and offering

special offers, features on businesses in the town and an events diary.

2.3 Planning for Comedy and music festival and Christmas event.

Planning is well underway for the events and continues.

3.0 Recommendations and Actions in next period

3.1 Deliver Traders Market

3.2 Deliver Comedy and Music Festival

3.3 Encourage businesses to utilize Shopbootle.com

3.4 Update visitbootle.com

3.5 Continue senior contact meetings

42

Altside Business Village Partnership

29th July 2009

Title of Report:

Altside Business Village - Progress Report No. 30

Author of Report:

John Keogh - Altside Business Village Manager

Purpose of Report:


progress made to date by Altside Business Village Partnership.

Recommendations:


Note the content of the report.

Note the current progress of projects

Note the proposals in the Delivery Plan for year 2009/10

43

1 Tourism

Camping & Caravanning Club site

Negotiations with the owners of Berry’s Farm are proving to be difficult and the Camping

& Caravanning Club have been unable to agree a figure for purchasing or leasing the

land. Another plot of land has been identified which appears to be more suitable as it is

not near any housing, could make use of existing buildings and facilities, is screened by

existing trees and shrubbery and would facilitate better access to a number of potential

tourism sites. There may also be an opportunity to link this to a bid for funding from the

Heritage Tourism Fund provided by the NWDA.

Marina

A pubic consultation took place at St Gregorys Primary School in Lydiate on the 30th April

followed by a display at Maghull Library, the project was also discussed at the Lydiate

Parish Council meeting in May.

• Around 40 feedback forms were returned with approximately 50/50 for and against.

• 100 residents attended the consultation of which only around half a dozen were

against the proposal.

• 45 residents attended the council meeting but as only a small number of people

voiced an opinion it was difficult to gauge how many were supportive of the marina.

• A petition containing the names of 141 residents objecting to the marina was handed

to the council, however a large proportion of the signatories do not live anywhere

near the proposed marina site eg several names were from residents of Maghull, two

were from Aintree Village and one was from Netherton.

A report published by the British Marine Federation found that marinas contribute

£155,000,000 to the UK GVA, this averages at £15.63 per berth per day. Based on this

average a 135 berth marina at Lydiate would generate a total GVA of £770,168 per

annum (this includes marina income). However, a comparison with Kingfisher Marina

gives the following figures:

Kingfisher Marina

- 50 berths -

Lydiate Marina

-135 berths -

Jobs created at marina &

within local economy 8.5 23

GVA – Marina £35,000 £94,500

GVA – Local economy £109,500 £295,650

GVA - Total £144,500 £390,150

Hornby Visitor Centre

The Frank Hornby Trust recently interviewed a shortlist of 5 design consultants and have

now appointed Janvs Design a subsidiary of Vidar Media to design and fit out the Frank

Hornby Centre. It was hoped to fund the initial design and HLF stage 1 grant application

with funding from the Awards for All scheme, however the bid was unsuccessful and this

initial work is to be paid for from WNF monies. The trust members had their first meeting

44

with Janvs on 16th July to outline the various stages of the project and it is intended to

call a meeting of all those who expressed an interest in becoming a trustee or member

to allocate responsibilities and to build up a collection which will be an important factor

for future grant applications.

Hornby Experience

This years Frank Hornby Experience event is to take place over the weekend of the 14th

and 15th November once again at Maghull Town Hall. The event will be similar to

previous events except for the addition of displays of Bayko and the official Scalextric

roadshow who run race events throughout the day with a bottle of champagne for the

winner. It is highly likely that the exhibition will coincide with the opening of the Sports

Centre and could be an opportunity to make an event of the centre opening and at the

same time attract more visitors to the exhibition. It is also hoped that design material for

the proposed Hornby Centre will be available for display which will further raise

awareness of the centre and allow us gather more information to inform the design

process.

2 Community & Environment

Britain in Bloom

Judging for this years Britain in Bloom took place on Wednesday 8th July though the

results have yet to be announced. This year the areas judged included Maghull Central

Square along with Maghull Station, Treeview Court and Deyes Lane shops. Altside have

supported the group by signposting to relevant council officers and encouraging local

businesses to provide labour and loan equipment. Prior to the judging day a number of

new wooden circular planters were purchased by the council and grassed areas were cut,

strimmed and re-turfed where necessary. Maghull Town Council also supplied and

maintained hanging baskets for the square.

Central Square, Maghull

Farmers Market – Altside BVP were responsible for bringing the Farmers Market to

Maghull and is currently seeking a private company to take over management of the

market as well as develop other regular public events.

Environmental improvements – The manager is part of the working party to drive

forward environmental improvements to several specific sites in the area surrounding

Central Square.

3 Business & Retail Support

Central Square

Altside BVP is the key facilitator of a working group that has brought together the main

property owners and retailers at Maghull Central Square and surrounding area. Meetings

have taken place with the Maghull Group who own the Square, London & Cambridge

45

Properties, a development company with plans to redevelop the triangle from the area

known as the Red Lion up to the library. And more recently, the management of

Morrisons who have taken over the Somerfield store.

Aintree Racecourse Business & Retail Park

Since the opening of the Next and Marks & Spencer stores traffic entering the park from

Ormskirk Road has greatly increased causing tailbacks stretching over the bridge toward

Aintree Village. The problem is particularly severe at weekends. Paul Flower of Emerson

(owners of Aintree Racecourse Business & Retail Park) and vice chair of Altside BVP has

suggested alleviating the problem through improved signage, changes to the timings of

the traffic lights and changes to traffic priorities. The manager is working with Sefton

MBC officers to identify solutions.

Altside Business Club

A larger working party of 5 members has been formed to re-launch The Altside Business

Club. The original plan of asking the Kensington Sports and Leisure Club to provide the

venue has been dropped due to the fact that the building has no ladies toilets. The group

are currently in the process of researching other similar events and seeking a permanent

venue.

Altsider Column

Executive Committee decided to move the column to the Champion which is now

delivered to homes in Maghull and Aintree, however they do not have the resources to

individually interview member companies and so the manager has asked that companies

provide the information via email in a bullet point format which can be built into a story

by a Champion report. So far there has been no response.

Public Information Pillars

Public Information Pillars have agreed to absorb the cost of the business rates on any

empty pillars.

Greenpages

The Greenpages document is regularly updated as and when new members join the

Business Village and is sent out to all members every three months.

Websites

The websites are regularly maintained and updated by the manager to inform of

upcoming events and to include new members details.

Ringmaster

The ringmaster database is regularly updated when new members wish to join and is

provided as a tangible benefit to Altside BVP membership.

46

Sefton Business Against Crime Partnership

29th July 09

TITLE OF REPORT

Sefton Business Against Crime Update July 2009

AUTHOR OF REPORT

Steve Booth - Sefton Business Against Crime Manager

PURPOSE OF REPORT

The purpose of this report is top provide the Sefton Business Village Partnership with an

over view of current Business Against Crime in Sefton

RECOMMENDATIONS

It is recommended that the Partnership


Financial Implications (if any)

Since the last report a meeting has been held with the Waterloo traders, who are looking

into the possibility of starting a scheme in the area. If approved this will bring in further

radio revenue and membership income.

Current Position

There have been meetings and updates given to the three groups, Bootle Shopwatch,

Southport Shopwatch and Southport Pubwatch. The two retail groups were given a

presentation by Environmental Services on Violence in the workplace and assistance was

offered to any retailer.

A further meeting was held on 14th July to ascertain if a scheme would be set up in

Waterloo and I’m currently awaiting feedback from this group.

Figures supplied by Merseyside Police Corvus database show that between Feb – Mar

2009 148 arrests were made in Southport Town Centre, compared with 84 arrests for

the same period last year. This represents an increase in detections of 76%. This rise in

detections lies in part, to a greater security presence at one of the member multi

national stores on the outskirts of town.

47

Although crime figures for Bootle were unavailable at the time of this report, anecdotal

evidence from the retail community highlights Anti Social Behaviour, particularly alcohol

related as a prime concern.

SBAC is also working with Licensing to help promote the ‘Best Bar Non' scheme by

visiting licensees and assisting them in their applications.

Other Activities

Graffiti

Various locations have been identified throughout Southport and by working in

partnership with the Community Payback Team, through the Community Safety Dept

many of these areas were addressed with mixed effectiveness.

This will be a long-term project as the team visit each of the wards on a 7week cycle and

SBAC now has the necessary infrastructure in place to liaise with the team to address

relevant concerns and will also work in other areas in which the Community Payback

team operate.

Street Traders

Following on from a meeting held with relevant partners in May, SBAC were the lead

agency in the removal of the traders, which were impacting on the trading environment

of the local businesses community. This was achieved whilst working closely with the

Legal Dept and the police, and a form was developed, a copy of which is attached.

On the days that notices were served, Sefton Security Services monitored the operation.

The next operation is due to take place on 25/07/09 and I will give an update at the

meeting.

Bogus Charity collectors

This is a problem that is prevalent throughout the north west of England and

unfortunately has been identified in Southport; the last occasion being on 26th June

2009. This has been notified to Trading Standards, who are also keen to assist in their

removal and, hopefully, if these individuals choose to return to Southport this issue can

be dealt with.

The sellers that were apprehended in Manchester can be viewed on the following link:

48

http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/video/?bcpid=1447672942&bc

lid=1137895917&bctid=20374297001 However these persons were not the ones

who were selling in Southport, although the goods were of the same inclination.

Alley gates

The passageway between 275 -281 Lord st has historically been an issue with regard to

low level and alcohol related disorder in the evenings and into the night. This has led to

an abundance of associated paraphernalia being left in the alleyway, which has also been

used by persons urinating.

This has led it, at times, to be wholly unusable and many persons choose to avoid this

area

The planning application for gates was submitted on 30/06, is at the processing stage

and has a caseworker allocated.

When approved, this will hopefully eradicate this problem, whilst allowing for the

thoroughfare to remain open during business hours.

Bike Race

SBAC worked in conjunction with Technical Services to assist in the Tour of Britain Bike

Race event that was held in Southport by notifying the business community of the road

closure and effect on their delivery schedule and working with the stores to offer free

advertising for their business on the day.

Also assisted with distribution of promotional material for display in the businesses and

for relevant caterers to remain open into the evening to cater for the attendees.

49

Town Centre Management

c/o150 Lord st

Southport

PR9 0NP

Reference SB/

Date 20/06/2009

To whom it may concern

It has come to the attention of Sefton Council that you are selling goods on the above-

mentioned highway.

I would advise you that under S.148(d) of the Highways Act 1980 it is an offence for a

hawker or other itinerant trader, without lawful authority or excuse, to pitch a booth,

stall or stand or to encamp on a highway.

I hereby give you notice not to contravene the aforementioned S.148(d) after the

service of this notice upon you.

For the avoidance of doubt, this means that you must cease trading on the highway

immediately, failing which you will be guilty of an offence and liable on summary

conviction on a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale (currently £1000)

HIGHWAYS ACT 1980

SECTION 148(d)

PERSON DETAILS (IF KNOWN)

Person Name

Person Address

TOWN

POST

CODE

DATE

OF

BIRTH

CONTRAVENTION DETAILS

LOCATION OF

CONTRAVENTIO

N

DATE OF

CONTRAVENTIO

N

20 June 2009 GOODS BEING

OFFERED FOR

SALE

50

Sefton Business Village Partnership

29th July 2009

Title of Report

Progress Report 31 on a number of Sefton BVP related issues.

Author of Report

Mo. Kundi

Purpose of Report

The aim of this report is provide Partnership Members of the current position with regard

to Sefton Business Village related issues.

Recommendations


1. Note the content of the report.

Introduction

1. Lydiate Village Centre

Partnership members will be pleased to learn that the Legal Agreement between Sefton

Council, and Lydiate Parish Council has been concluded, thus enabling construction to

start on site. The contractor J Armor Limited started construction of the £885,000

Lydiate Village Centre on 6th July 2009. It is expected that the Centre will be completed

by 21st December 2009.

2. Sefton Retail Strategy Review Update 2009.

Sefton Council’s retained Consultants White Young Green (WYG) have recently

completed their retail study, and in particular the undertaking of ‘Health Checks For

Southport And Bootle’. It updates the previous Sefton Retail Strategy Review and Health

Checks that were undertaken by WYG for the Council in 2005. The study is based dated

at April 2009 and takes account of the recent implications of the ‘credit crunch’ and the

related downturn in retail expenditure forecasts and, linked to this, the recent increasing

vacancy rates in retail centres

KEY FINDINGS OF THE HEALTH CHECKS FOR SOUTHPORT AND BOOTLE

51

The key findings of the health checks for Southport may be summarised as below:

i) Southport Town Centre

- 5.8% of all units in Southport are in use for the sale of convenience goods compared

to the national average of 8.8%. In terms of floorspace, the figure for Southport is

9.6% compared to the national average of 14.1%.

- 36.5% of all outlets in Southport are in use for the sale of comparison goods

compared to the national average of 34.9%. In terms of floorspace, the figure for

Southport is 34.8% compared to the national figure of 38.2%.

- Southport contains fifteen of the ‘Top Twenty Retailers’ as ranked by ORC Data

Services.

- Southport’s retail ranking based on retailer demand (as set out in the Focus Report,

April 2009) has varied since 2001 but since 2007 its ranking has increased from 62nd

to 53rd nationally.

- At April 2009 (Focus Report) there were 30 retailers seeking representation within

Southport, collectively requiring 32,979 sq m gross retail floorspace.

- At April 2009 there were 125 vacant units in Southport comprising 29,170 sq m. this

represents 16.4% of all outlets and 18.3% of floorspace and compares with national

figures of 10.4% and 8.5% respectively.

- Zone A (prime area) rents have decreased by 23% between June 2000 to June 2008,

from £1,184 sq m to £915 sq m. This is exceptional compared to other nearby retail

centres which have almost all shown growth.

- Retail yields have fallen from 7% in April 1995 to 6.25% in July 2006 suggesting an

increased investor confidence in Southport.

Overall Assessment: Southport’s ranking in the national retail hierarchy, based on data

gathered by Management Horizon, demonstrates that Southport has improved its

ranking by nine places from 62nd to 53rd. Overall, WYG conclude that:

‘Although in 2005 the health of Southport Town Centre appeared to be quite strong, the

most recent data gathered in 2009 appears to suggest that the town centre is facing

increasing challenges. Whilst the problems with the retail industry generally have not

52

helped circumstances within Southport, it is important that every opportunity is taken to

improve Southport’s competitive position in the future so it can respond to increasing

competition for local expenditure. Clearly, the opening of Liverpool One will have had

some impact on Southport’s trading performance but it is important that the evidence

gathered within this study is carefully monitored to ensure that the increasing voids are

a reflection of the economic situation and increased competition from Liverpool rather

than the start of a significant decline.’

‘In addition, WYG also have some concerns about the ability of the town centre to meet

the needs that are forecast though to 2021. It is therefore fundamental that the Council

continue to explore opportunities for significant development in the medium to long term

which will not only help met the need identified above (circa 23,000 sq m) but will also

ensure that Southport can remain competitive despite the strengthening retail position in

Liverpool. This will require a positive pro-active approach to be adopted by the Council to

actively seek to identify realistic and achievable development opportunities which could

be delivered to the market when the economy begins to emerge from the current

recession.’

(ii) Bootle Town Centre

The key findings of the health checks for Bootle may be summarised as below:

- 10.5% of all units in Bootle are in use for the sale of convenience goods compared to

the national average of 8.8%. In terms of floorspace, the figure for Bootle is 14.2%

compared to the national average of 14.1%.

- 37.1% of all outlets in Bootle are in use for the sale of comparison goods compared to

the national average of 34.9%. In terms of floorspace, the figure for Bootle is 42.9%

compared to the national figure of 38.2%.

- Bootle contains seven of the ‘Top Twenty Retailers’ as ranked by ORC Data Services.

- Bootle’s retail ranking based on retailer demand (as set out in the Focus Report, April

2009) has varied since 2001 but in recent times its ranking has slipped from 229th to

285th nationally.

- At April 2009 (Focus Report) there were 7 retailers seeking representation within

Bootle collectively requiring 6,577 sq m gross retail floorspace.

53

- At April 2009 there were 36 vacant units in Bootle comprising 4,660 sq m. this

represents 17.1% of all outlets and 10.6% of floorspace and compares with national

figures of 10.4% and 8.5% respectively.

- Zone A (prime area) rents have increased by 40% between June 2000 to June 2008,

from £535 sq m to £753 sq m. This is high compared to neighbouring retail centres.

- Retail yields have fallen from 9% in April 1995 to 7.25% in July 2006 suggesting an

increased investor confidence in Bootle.

Overall Assessment: Bootle’s ranking in the national retail hierarchy, based on data

gathered by Management Horizon, demonstrates that its retail rankings have slipped by

fifty-six places from 229th to 285th. However, WYG conclude that:

‘…the Asda store has now opened on the edge of the centre and this has clearly helped

bolster the convenience goods offer of Bootle which was previously underrepresented. In

addition, a new Lidl store has opened since the 2005 study and Aldi have been granted

planning permission for a new store on the edge of the centre.

However, despite the recent investment, the number of vacant units is still high at 17%.

There is also a worrying trend which shows vacancies gradually increasing since 2004.

The vacancies tend to be focused on small units which are hard to let as the vacant

floorspace figure is 10.6%. As some of the units are very small, local agents have

confirmed that there are a number of ‘strategic voids’ that have been created to help

combine units in the future and provide more attractive space which will better meet

modern retailers’ requirements.

Therefore, whilst there has been significant investment activity in and around Bootle

over the last 4 years (which is positive), it will be important to examine, over time, how

this investment impacts on the future health of the established centre and how its future

health is influenced by developments beyond the Borough boundary in North Liverpool

and, possibly, Kirkby.’

Southport Retail Study

The need to provide additional retail floor space in Southport town centre has been a

recurring theme not only in the current WYG study, but also work done as part of the

recently completed Southport Investment Strategy, and the work currently being

undertaken by LOCUM Consultants into ‘Brand Evaluation and Market Appraisal Study.’

However one the difficulty in assembling additional retail space is the lack of clear

identifiable sites in the town centre. In the past the main focus has been on Southport

54

Railway Station site, however this has proved to be a very difficult site for potential

developers to progress, both because of the cost, but also because it would entail

significant changes to the location of the station.

The other significant constraint for land assembly is the fact that large parts of the town

centre falls within the conservation area, which brings numerous hurdles to

redevelopment. However none of these issues have been fully explored or tested by

independent external consultants. In order to respond these challenges, Cabinet at its

meeting on 6th August is recommended to approve the appointment of specialist

consultants to address the following:-

• Long term provision of additional comparison floorspace to meet the needs of

North Sefton and in particular, Southport, and to enable it to compete more

effectively with other retail centres.

• meeting the comparison retail needs of Southport in a sustainable way and

where possible within Southport Town Centre, thereby protecting its vitality and

viability both now and in the future.

Subject to Members approval to the appointment of external consultants, Southport

Business Enterprise together with other business stakeholders in Southport will be

involved in this study, the findings of which will be reported to this Partnership in the

future.

3. Farmers’ Markets

In order to increase the number of stallholders currently attending the Farmers’ Market

in Southport, the Market is being moved to Chapel Street. This is a prime retail area,

with high visibility, and it is anticipated that stallholders should benefit from high footfall

in this pedestrianised area. With regard to Maghull Farmers’ Market, discussions have

been held with a potential operator, who also happens to manage a stall at this Market.

In addition discussions have also been held with the local authority that engages this

particular operator.

4.0 Rural Development Programme for England

At the 28th April 2009, Partnership Members considered a report that provided a detailed

background on the development and the delivery arrangement for the Rural

Development Programme for England (RDPE). The report also set out potential funding

opportunities for tourism lead projects.

55

The table below provides a list of projects where funding is sought from the Rural

Development Programme for England.

Title Applican

t

Total Cost Seeking

RDPE

Contribution

Comments

Fisherman’s

Path

Improvement,

Formby

SMBC 60,000 40,000 Right of Way Improvement Plan

(LTP) – not secured yet

Banks Road,

Southport

SMBC

80,000

40,000 Cycle England – not allocated

yet

HLF – not secured yet

Mark Road

Public

Footpath,

Hightown

SMBC 100,000 50,000 Sustran (Connect 2) –not

secured yet

Hightown and

Formby

Footpath

SMBC 700,000 30,000 Sustran (Connect 2) up to

£400K – not secured yet

Canal Marina,

Lydiate

Private

Sector

1,550,000 50,000 Balance from Private Sector

Camping and

Caravanning

Club,

Lydiate

Private

Sector

1,500,000 30,000 Balance from Private Sector

5. Merseyside Rural Economy Action Plan

The consultants, Rural Innovation, who were appointed to develop the Rural Economy

Action Plan have now completed their first draft of the study. The study show that ‘rural

areas of Merseyside play their part in delivering the sub-region’s economic output. Their

contribution of £5.3 billion equated to 25.5% of total sub-regional GVA in 2006 (£20.7

billion), slightly in excess of their 24.5% share of total employment. The rural areas

host some of Merseyside’s most important wards in GVA terms. For example Daresbury

and Knowsley Park provide in the region of 3.5% of regional GVA1. And rural wards are

consistent contributors to sub-regional GVA (there are only 5 rural wards in the 35

lowest contributors) and provide the space and raw materials for some of the sub-

region’s most important employment sites’.

56

For the purpose of this study the rural areas the rural area of Merseyside has been

defined by the six local authorities in Greater Merseyside (GM). It has been created by

allocating each ward as being either urban or rural. This allocation was based on the

extent of the Merseyside Green Belt, the incidence of open countryside and the

predominant land use. It accords to the area defined as eligible for investment under the

Merseyside RDPE Programme managed by the NWDA2 on behalf of DEFRA.

Some key findings of the study includes:-

•Rural GM hosts 29% of the total population

•Fewer 20 – 24 year olds, more 50 year olds

•Total population of GM has fallen (2001 – 2007); falling at lower rate in rural GM than

urban GM

•Working age population has fallen slightly in rural GM (2001 – 2007)

•Working age population has risen in urban GM, in the NW and nationally

•Higher household income in rural GM than urban GM

•Higher skill levels in rural GM than urban GM

•Lower deprivation (IMD) in rural GM than urban GM

•Distribution of business stock by sector v similar rural and urban GM

•Largest % of businesses in rural area in the business services sector (c.25%)

•Other major sectors for stock are construction (c.11%) and retail (c.14%)

•Size profile of business stock v similar rural and urban GM – lower % of small

businesses than regional and national average

•Rural GM contributes 25.5% of the sub regions GVA

•> than share of employment (24.5%)

•< than share of population (29%) and business stock (30%)

•Rural GM contributes:

–35% of GVA from the production sector (agriculture < 1% GVA)

–32% of GVA from the construction sector

–28% of GVA from the distribution, transport and communication sector

–21% of GVA from business services and finance sector

–21% of GVA from public administration, education, health and other services sectors

Consultants Innovation will be presenting their findings to Sefton Members, and should

any Partnership Member is interested in attending please let me know as soon as

possible.

57

Map 1: Rural and urban

Merseyside

6. New Funding Opportunity

At Partnership’s meeting on 28th April 2008, information was provided on the North West

Operational Programme, successor to the European Objective 1 Programme, the

Regional Development Agency’s Single Pot Programme, and various other external

programmes. The attached Annexes A and B below provide an update on the various

funding streams, and for which Expressions of Interest have either submitted or are

pending.

58

ANNEX A

Expressions of Interest Submitted.

Contribution from Sefton Expressions of

Interest

Submitted to

date

Fund Type Total

Project

Cost

£

ERDF/RDA Funding

Sought

£

Other

External

Funding

Source

£

LTP

Budget

£

Capital

Programme

£

Others

£

Comments

Dunningsbridge

Road Corridor

Public Realm

(ERDF/RDA)

1,200,000 600,000 (ERDF)

200,000 (RDA)

400,000 Concept

Proposal

submitted

South Sefton

Development

Trust

Managed

Workspace

(ERDF)

£100,000 £45,000 (ERDF) £55,000 EOI

Submitted

TREND £200,000 £90,000 (ERDF) £110,000 EOI

Submitted

SAFE

Productions Ltd

Managed

Workspace

(ERDF)

£1,000,000 £450,000 (ERDF) £550,000 EOI

Submitted

Fisherman’s

Path

Improvement,

Formby

RDPE £60,000 £40,000 (RDPE) Right of Way Improvement Plan (LTP) – not

secured yet

EOI

Submitted

Banks Road,

Southport

RDPE £80,000 £40,000 (RDPE) Cycle England – not allocated yet HLF – not

secured yet

EOI

Submitted

59

Mark Road

Public Footpath,

Hightown

RDPE £100,000 £50,000 (RDPE) Sustran (Connect 2) –not secured yet EOI

Submitted

Hightown and

Formby

Footpath

RDPE £700,000 £30,000 Sustran (Connect 2) up to £400K – not secured

yet

EOI

Submitted

Canal Marina,

Lydiate

RDPE £1,550,000 £50,000 Balance

from

Private

Sector

EOI

Submitted

Camping and

Caravanning

Club,

Lydiate

RDPE £1,500,000 £30,000 Balance

from

Private

Sector

EOI

Submitted

60

ANNEX B

CURRENT FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Funding Name Funding Body Amount

Available

Deadline for

EOI

Submission

Date by which

project must

start

Date by which

project must

finish

Key Criteria

Visitor

Attraction

Fund (VAF)

NWDA Eligible

larger or

medium

projects

£5m or

£1m

Smaller

grants

£250,000

(Total

£15m)

1st May

2009

VAF Available

during three

years 2009/10,

2010/11 and

2011/12, and

must be spend

during this

period

VAF Available

during three

years 2009/10,

2010/11 and

2011/12, and

must be spend

during this

period

• Match funding

• Permission required before project can

start

• Regional signature project

• Transformational in impact

• Appeal to international and Staying

visitors

• Generate higher levels of spend

• Improve the profile of the location

• Supported by Tourist Board, Sub-regional

Partnership, and be in the Destination

Management Plan

‘Public Realm’

Projects (3.2

& 4.3)

NWDA/ERDF Total

available

£10m

8th May

2009

ASAP Completed by

December 2010

• Match Funding

• Located within Strategic Sites

• Benefit the local economy (directly or

indirectly)

• Positive Environmental Impact

• Planning permission

61

‘Low Carbon

Economy’

(1.3)

NWDA/ERDF Maximum

RDA/ERDF

available

limited to

EU500,000

(Total

available

£5m)

1st

September

2009

ASAP Financial

completion

2015

• Feasibility Study required as part of EOI

• Match Funding (up to 50%)

• Capital and revenue eligible

• Showcase low carbon and/or low

resource usage on multi-SME

employment sites (e.g. Business Park)

• Retail facilities & housing development

ineligible

Must demonstrate Replicability, Scale,

Integration, Distribution, Leverage, Strategic

Fit, Deliverability, Value for Money, and

Innovation.

Heritage

Tourism

Improvement

Scheme

(HTIS)

NWDA

(Contact

Andrew

Backhouse

07914 871

859)

Up to

£40,000

(Total

available

£500,000

plus English

Heritage

£75,000)

21st May,

22nd June

and 24th

September

2009

• Historic houses, gardens, and buildings

open to public

• Physical improvements that enhances the

visitors experience including car parking

educational activities, disabled facilities,

and interpretation

62

Action Area

4.3

Development

of sites

RDA/ERDF Total

Budget for

the sub-

region

£20m

Interventio

n rate up to

50%

By 12.00

noon 19th

June 09

Decision on

7th August

09

ASAP • Supporting development of sites

• Creating employment for residents of

targeted areas

• Focus on entrepreneurship & community

development e.g. managed workspace &

incubation units for businesses

• Not eligible provision of training, training

facilities, or to help reduce worklessness

Action Areas

3.2 & 4.3 –

Land

Remediation

and Site

Servicing

RDA/ERDF Total

Budget for

the sub-

region £XX

Interventio

n rate up to

50%

By Friday

14th August

2009.

Decision by

14th

September

2009

ASAP December 2010 • Located within Strategic Sites

• Demonstrate positive economic impact

• Enables or enhances other ERDF Projects

• Partners and Planning permission in place

• Can deliver by December 2010

• Demonstrate match in place

Rural

Development

Programme

National

/European

Grant

Total

Budget for

the sub-

region £2m

On going ASAP • A range Interventions, including Farm

diversification, Rural tourism, supporting

rural economy, access etc.

63

Action Area

1.2

RDA/ERDF Total

Budget for

the sub-

region £XX

Interventio

n rate up to

50%

By Monday

10th August

2009

ASAP December 2010 EOIs are sought from the following sectors:-

• Biomedical

• Energy & Environmental Technologies

• Advanced Engineering & Materials

• Food & Drink

• Digital & Creative Industries

• Business & Professional Services

ITEM NO.

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