2007 - 2011

Torfaen Project Evaluation ii 2007 - 2011 Project Evaluation

Contents • The RDP in : An Overview 2 • The RDP in Torfaen: An Overview 3 • Business Case One 5 • The Restoration of Manor 7 • The Branching Out Fund 17 1. Business Creation and Development 18 2. Farm Diversification 26 3. Rural Tourism 32 • Rural Skills and Training 38 • The RDP in Torfaen: The Future 40

1 The RDP in Wales: An Overview

The Rural Development Plan (RDP) for Axis 3 Wales 2007-2013 is a joint Welsh Assembly ‘Improving quality of life in rural areas and Government and European Union (EU) strategy. encouraging diversification’ (Delivered locally It covers four areas; agriculture and forestry, by 18 Unitary Authorities). environment and countryside, quality if life in Axis 4 rural areas and locally based approaches to ‘Building local capacity for employment and rural development. diversification’ (Delivered locally by 18 Unitary The RDP is the mechanism by which the Welsh Authorities). Assembly Government delivers activities to Axis 1 and 2 funds are distributed across support rural communities. It aims to encourage the whole of Wales. Axis 3 and 4 are only the sustainable management of agriculture and administered by 18 Unitary Authorities with the environment. ‘rural wards’. The 2007-2013 programme is split into 2 Business Plans. Business Plan 1 finished in 2011, and Business Plan 2 will run until December 2013. The RDP is administered through 4 axes. These are; Axis 1 ‘Improving the competitiveness of our agricultural sector’ (Delivered by the Welsh Assembly Government). Axis 2 ‘Improving our environment and countryside’ (Delivered by the Welsh Assembly Government and the Forestry Commission for Wales).

2 The RDP in Torfaen: An Overview

Seven wards across Torfaen are designated as ‘Rural’ by the Welsh Assembly Government. These wards are eligible for RDP funding. The details of the seven wards are:

Name Area (hectares) Population Population density Full Rural Wards Llanyrafon 144 2,664 6.00 South 1,783 5,763 3.23 1,252 6,572 5.25 Rural Service Centre Wards 2,476 6,826 2.76 766 2,422 3.16 Cwmynyscoy 688 1,283 1.92 775 4,688 6.05 Totals 8,164 30,218 3.70

3 Project Management and Partnership Working

The RDP in Torfaen is managed by the EU Policy and External Funding Team at Torfaen County Borough Council. This is what the Welsh Assembly Government recognises as the ‘Lead Body’. The role of the Lead Body is to co-ordinate projects at a local level. The Lead Body work closely with Torfaen Rural Partnership Board and ‘creaTe’, the Local Action Group. The partnership board comprises professionals from other relevant organisations, while ‘creaTe’ includes a wide range of local stakeholders. Both groups work hard to develop project ideas, assist in project management, and prevent duplication of services. Their primary aim is `to help regenerate rural communities in Torfaen`. Throughout the project, both groups have developed their own identity to help publicise the Royal Welsh Show, and visited Garden their work in Torfaen. In 2009, they developed Festivals and Orchards to help their own branding based on the logo opposite. develop ideas for future projects. Visits were well received, and will continue during Business During 2009 and 2010 a series of study visits Case 2. were held for both groups. Members attended 4 Business Case One

Torfaen was successful in securing 5 projects Axis 3 £1,303,694 under Business Case 1, one project under Axis 3 Axis 4 £ 206,503 and four projects under Axis 4. The budget for Total RDP Budget £1,510,197 each of the axes is shown below. Axis 3

The Restoration of Llanyrafon Manor The project involved the restoration and adaptation of the Grade II * Listed Manor house and grounds. The site will become a local attraction showcasing the historic significance of the Manor and its surroundings in the context of rural heritage. The site and its activities will have a strong focus on community use and will become a local asset. Axis 4 The Branching Out fund 1- Business Creation 2- Diversification 3- Tourism 4- Rural Skills

5 Axis 3

6 The Restoration of Llanyrafon Manor

Llanyrafon Manor is a derelict grade II* listed building set in 2.8 acres of land in the ‘Llanyrafon South’ Ward of Torfaen. It is located close to major road links in an attractive area at the ‘gateway’ to Torfaen and the Valleys Regional Park. The aim of the project was; ‘To bring the site and its history back to life, through sensitively conserving and re- developing Llanyrafon Manor into a focal point for the community, establishing a sense of place for the area`.

7 Project Objectives

• To inspire community involvement through Llanyrafon Manor Rural Heritage Centre activities at the site. will offer recreational and learning opportunities within its distinctive setting. • To improve understanding and enjoyment Visitor interpretation at the site will improve of rural heritage by meeting the needs and understanding of the architectural, historical, aspirations of varied audiences. environmental and ecological value of the site. • To host a series of events to celebrate local The external landscape will feature gardens, culture and heritage. an orchard, wildflower areas, and specialised • To work in partnership with local businesses habitats to make the grounds an attraction in to support the local economy. their own right. • To provide excellent physical, sensory and intellectual access to activities at the site. • To enhance the biodiversity of Llanyrafon Manor. • To engage the widest possible audience in education and personal enlightenment.

8 The Manor will act as a hub for Rural The LMCG evolved from a campaign group Development in Torfaen. The RDP Team will be established to lobby the Council to take action based there, delivering projects to 2013 and to prevent the decline of the Manor. Before beyond. the RDP, the group pursued many initiatives to highlight the significance of the Manor. Now Llanyrafon Manor is integral to the local with over 50 members, the Group remains community. After a series of public meetings in actively involved in the development of the 2007, the Llanyrafon Manor Community Group Manor. There is every indication that the group (LMCG) was established with the following will continue to grow through the next phase of mission statement; the project.

‘To assist, whenever and however appropriate, in the preservation of Llanyrafon Manor and its immediate surroundings, ensuring the property has a sustainable future making it accessible to visitors and future generations.’

9 An activity plan is being created by the LMCG, • Ecology workshops to investigate the the local community and the RDP Local Action biodiversity of the site with particular focus Group. The plan demonstrates the broad on bats and otters. range of interests the project spans. Proposed • Art workshops in the grounds, managed by a activities include; sub- committee of the LMCG. • Workshops with the Welsh Cider and Perry • Orchard planting and hedgelaying. Association to consider the significance of the pear trees on the site to produce Traditional Perry.

10 Before the restoration began, a full record of memories of the former farm. These stories will condition was taken. This included studies of form the basis for heritage interpretation at the topography, flood risk, and protected species. site. During the process, colonies of Pippistrelle and Following the open day, over 40 people Lesser Horseshoe Bats were discovered in the attended a bat tour of the grounds. The main house. The relocation of the bats from tour was very well received, confirming the the main house into the cottage were lengthy, importance of biodiversity at the completed however the LMCG played an integral role by site. assisting the ecologist to create an alternative habitat. Restoration work began in September 2010, and the LMCG regularly attend update Some examples of these studies are as follows; meetings with the contractors and RDP Team. Funding for the second phase of works has been approved, which will complete the restoration Bat Survey Site Meeting investigations and cover running costs for the first 2 years. Structural Survey Architectural Survey Type III Asbestos Flood Consequence Survey Assessment Structural Survey Transport Assessment Ecological Survey Sustainable Energy Report Death watch beetle Habitat Survey investigation Sustainable Technologies Reptile Survey Report Phase 1 Habitat Designers Risk assessment Assessment

In August 2010, the LMCG hosted an open day for the local community to experience the site before the restoration. Over 130 people attended, and many shared stories and

11 Llanyrafon Manor during the 1980s

12 Refurbishment begins at Llanyrafon Manor

13 SWOT Analysis STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES Support from LMCG. Wider community involvement. Lack of opportunities for funding. Partnership working with key stakeholders. High site maintenance costs. Team of specialists involved . OPPORTUNITIES THREATS Protected species add value to the project offer. Local weather holding up construction. Cross boundary working. Bats- slowing down construction. Tourism attraction. Funding timescales. Rental opportunities for rural business.

14 Project Outcomes 19 studies undertaken relating to the maintenance, restoration and upgrading of the rural heritage. 5 protection and management plans developed. 1 project supporting the maintenance, restoration or upgrading of rural heritage supported. 17 marketing and promotional events held. 4 enterprises adopted environmental management systems. 4 projects aimed at environmental enhancement or sustainability. 2664 people benefitting from improved services in the area.

Funding Package Department for Transport and Economy, WAG £50,453.00 CADW £96,000.00 Operational Group £13,000.00 Torfaen County Borough Council £101286.00 EAFRD £1,042,955 TOTAL £1,303,694.00

15 Axis 4

Axis 4 uses the ‘LEADER’ approach to design projects using the ‘bottom up’ approach. This involves extensive consultation of the local rural community to ensure the correct targeting of projects funded by the RDP.

The ‘Branching out Fund’ The Branching out Fund was a grant scheme The Branching out Fund incorporated the incorporating three axis 4 projects. The scheme following projects: was designed to add value to new and existing • Business Creation and Development organisations through innovative projects. The aim was to develop the profitability and • Farm Diversification sustainability of these organisations. • Rural Tourism

Rural Skills and Training A training project was also delivered under axis 4, linked closely to the Branching out Fund. Those living and working in the rural wards were offered funding to gain new skills and qualifications. The aim was to improve employability, occupational mobility, and earning potential. Applicants to the Branching out Fund were also encouraged to gain new skills to complement their project proposals.

16 The ‘Branching out Fund’

Background Project Development Three Axis 4 projects were delivered through Grants were 80% of project costs, up to a the ‘Branching out Fund’ (BOF). The scheme maximum of £5000. Applicants were required comprised grants for Business Creation and to bring 20% match funding. The BOF scheme Development, Farm Diversification, and Rural provided funding to applicants, but also support Tourism. and advice in developing the project. This ranged from assisting applicants in drafting A ‘Rural Audit’ undertaken by the RDP team in business plans, to offering advice on planning 2009 comprised of interviews with farmers and matters. This helped to ensure the sustainability rural businesses to ascertain their needs from of supported projects. the RDP. As a result, a Rural Tourism project was added to the Branching out Fund.

17 1. Business Creation and Development

Applicants to the scheme were businesses, individuals, and community groups aiming to develop existing businesses or establish new micro-enterprises. Eligible projects were required to derive income from non - agricultural trading.

Total Project Budget £22,439.12 EAFRD £17,951.29 Private Match £4,477.64 Capital Budget £16,715.79 Revenue Budget £5,723.33

18 All Creatures Great and Small Animal Sanctuary

All Creatures Great and Small, a Registered Charity in Llanfrechfa, Total Project Cost £830 specialise in the care and re-homing Capital Costs £830 Revenue Costs £0 of abandoned or abused dogs, BOF Amount (80%) £664 cats, and other animals. Some Matched Funding (20%) £166 170 animals call the sanctuary Source of matched Own Funds their home ranging from horses to funding terrapins. The sanctuary, established in 1992 and run by volunteers, relies on donations, legacies and grant funding to continue its work. All Creatures Great and Small is the chosen charity of Marks & Spencer (Cwmbran Store), and Newport Passport Office. The sanctuary is seeking to develop an educational, training and community facility in a derelict barn. The centre will include a café and gift shop to help the charity to generate its own income. The Sanctuary used a Branching out Fund grant to commission a Planning Application for the centre, including a bat survey.

19 Cwmynyscoy Community Action Trust

Cwmynyscoy Community Action Trust develops projects Total Project Cost £1,121.25 Capital Costs £1,121.25 to regenerate the Cwmynyscoy Revenue Costs £0 ward of Torfaen. It aims to attract BOF Amount (80%) £897 investment to improve facilities, Matched Funding (20%) £224.25 employment and to raise the Source of matched funding Organisation expectations of its residents. The group has supported projects to address renewable energy projects. One proposal would cultural difference, provide fresh fruit and generate wind power in the Local Nature vegetables for residents, and make physical Reserve and the other, hydro-electricity from improvements to the environment. the Afon- Llwyd River. The pre- feasibility study CCAT used a Branching out Fund grant will provide the basis for funding bids to cover to commission a feasibility study for two capital costs of installation.

20 Pet Plus

“Without the support of the RDP I wouldn’t have been able to continue with the business” Pet Plus is a nutritional supplement for Cats and Dogs. Originally manufactured and distributed worldwide from the USA, a Branching out Fund grant allowed Suzi McIntyre of Henllys, to take over. The grant was used to ship the remaining inventory from the USA, repair two derelict farm buildings to store the product, and produce marketing materials for the business. The business now distributes to customers worldwide and is developing further by transforming its image with a new website and product packaging.

Total Project Cost £6,192.64 Capital Costs £5,060.00 Revenue Costs £1,132.64 BOF Amount (79.9%) £4,947.42 Matched Funding (20.1%) £1,244.72 Source of matched funding Own Funds

21 CoStar Partnership

“Thanks to RDP funding our CoStar has helped many people improve their Gardener has been able to get to skills and gain employment through its ‘One work in the community” Stop Shop’ in Cwmbran. It also manages social enterprises including a community veg box scheme and ‘Repaint’, a scheme to recover The CoStar Partnership is a registered charity waste paint from landfill and provide it to the based in Cwmbran. CoStar lead community community. projects aimed at increasing access to CoStar used a Branching Out Fund grant education, training and employment. to help establish a ‘Domestic Gardening Service’ in Cwmbran. The funding enabled CoStar to employ a full time gardener to provide affordable horticultural services to the community.

Total Project Cost £4,495.88 Capital Costs £0 Revenue Costs £4,495.88 BOF Amount (80%) £3,596.70 Matched Funding (20%) £899.18 Source of matched funding Other Funding

22 Artists and Artisans

“The RDP has provided vital equipment and materials to offer new, sustainable services to the local economy”

Artists and Artisans is an arts and crafts company run by Debbie Lear of Wainfelin. Debbie identified a niche market in the production of unique, natural wool felt products. The company also produces bespoke design work and teaches the art of felt making. Artists and Artisans used a Branching out Fund grant to add this exciting new enterprise to the company. By importing professional felt making machinery and purchasing raw, unprocessed wool, the company was able to market new felt products and services. Artists and Artisans has continued to develop, Total Project Cost £6,250 expanding the range of products and services Capital Costs £6,150 to include commissioned pieces and training in Revenue Costs £100 local schools. Also, exhibiting work at local art BOF Amount (80%) £5,000 venues and developing the website have helped Matched Funding (20%) £1,250 to ensure future success. Source of matched funding Private Sources

23 Woodwise - Garnsychan Partnership

The Garnsychan Partnership is a registered charity based in Garndiffaith. The Partnership is committed to improving the lives of socially disadvantaged community members through social enterprise. The ‘Woodwise’ recycling scheme transforms waste wood into new products such as bird boxes, children’s playhouses and garden furniture. Anything from and old wardrobe to a packing crate can be given a new life by the dedicated team at Woodwise! The Garnsychan Partnership used a Branching out Fund grant to purchase new equipment and make repairs to old tools. The investment has increased the output of new items, helping to create a sustainable future for Woodwise.

Total Project Cost £3,554.54 Capital Costs £3,554.54 Revenue Costs £0 BOF Amount (80%) £2,843.63 Matched Funding (20%) £700.72 Source of matched funding Other Funding

24 Business Creation and Development Project Evaluation

Lessons Learnt As part of the project evaluation, the RDP team asked grant applicants what advice they would give to others. Below are some ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’. 5% Arts and Artisans 4% All Creatures Great and Small Do Don’t Rely on others to work Work hard! 26% Arts & to your high standards. Artisans Do it because you’d 27% Woodwise Thoroughly check your like to- it’s got to make target market. a profit! Sit back and wait for Work on a ‘worse case the work to come in, 20% CoStar 27% Pet Plus scenario’ plan, what do I get out there and find do if it all goes wrong? it! ‘Image is everything’, get professional!

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES Applications in excess Less stringent eligibility Achievements of available funding. requirements. 21 enterprises advised or assisted. Total project costs Many new enterprises not allowing large 3 enterprises created. formed. developments. 5 projects improved environmental sustainability. OPPORTUNITIES THREATS 1 job created. Business networking. Economic climate. 4 new products and services launched. Joint marketing and Vulnerability of new 4 new markets accessed by supported enterprises. publicity. enterprises created.

25 2. Farm Diversification

Applicants to the scheme were farming household members looking to begin a new enterprise to support the farm income. To be eligible, the household needed to be deriving its main income from farming, and have an agricultural holding number.

Total Project Budget £19,376.41 EAFRD £15,501.13 Private Match £3,875.28 Capital Budget £12,036.41 Revenue Budget £7,340

26 Mountain View Produce

Total Project Cost £4,150 “The RDP Team were available Capital Costs £2,700 whenever I needed them” Revenue Costs £1,450 BOF Amount (80%) £3,320 Matched Funding (20%) £830 Mountain View Produce, run by Tracey Morris, Source of matched funding Own Funds is based on a small holding in Henllys. The company farms goats, and sells the milk, meat and breeding stock to local customers. Following market research, Tracey has added Goat Milk Soap to the product range. Mountain View Produce used a Branching out Fund grant to cover the costs of producing and marketing the new product. Soap making equipment has allowed the company to produce soaps in- house, and a market stall and van has made it possible for Tracey to attend markets and events. A new website means soaps can be marketed at a national level. Mountain View Produce has continued to grow as a company, regularly attending markets and events, and increasing the herd to generate greater output.

27 Pentre Bach Farms

“Support from the RDP was vital in the success of the project”

Pentre Bach Farms is managed by husband and wife team, Steve and Sara Warman. The 135 acres across two farms in and Llantarnam produces organic beef from 35 cattle. Pentre Bach Farms used a Branching out Fund grant to launch a new service providing a mobile saw mill and operator to clients across South Wales. The saw mill generates income for Pentre Bach Farms through hire charges and the sale of processed timber and waste wood. By reusing waste wood to create new products such as fence posts, the mill also generates savings for clients. Total Project Cost £5573 Pentre Bach Farms has successfully marketed Capital Costs £5573 the new service to new clients including Torfaen Revenue Costs £0 CBC, recently creating way marker posts from BOF Amount (80%) £4458.40 waste timber at Coed Meyrick Mawr, Cwmbran. Matched Funding (20%) £1114.60 Source of matched funding Own Funds

28 CC Morgan and Son, Cwrt Henllys Farm

“The RDP has helped us to create a Total Project Cost £4,440 strong corporate identity, enabling Capital Costs £0 us to compete with national firms” Revenue Costs £4,440 BOF Amount (80%) £3,552 Matched Funding (20%) £888 Cwrt Henllys Farm is run by Chris and Ceri Source of matched funding Own Funds Morgan, the latest of three generations to raise livestock at the 14th century farm. Diversification into plant hire and groundwork began in 1934 with Cyril Morgan. However with the farm income declining, further marketing and promotion was needed to develop this side of the business. CC Morgan and Son used a Branching out Fund grant to create a new brand. This included the design of a new logo, website, and promotional materials to enable the business to compete with the large, national groundwork contractors. CC Morgan and Son has continued to develop, using the new brand and marketing campaign to win new contracts and maintaining good relationships with existing clients.

29 Pen Tranch Farm

“The RDP helped to reduce the risk Total Project Cost £3763.41 Capital Costs £3763.41 of starting a new business, and Revenue Costs £0 gave us training to make sure we BOF Amount (80%) £3010.730 had the skills to succeed” Matched Funding (20%) £752.68 Farm Source of matched funding Pen Tranch Farm is run by John and Sandra Finances Lewis of . They produce home reared meat to high welfare standards and sell in the local market. The business identified the need to diversify to ensure future success. Market research showed a niche for providing ground care services to private and public sector clients in the local area. Pen Tranch Farm used a Branching out Fund grant to purchase machinery, and personal protective equipment to provide felling, clearing, and land reclamation services. John Lewis also undertook training in spraying and chainsaw safety to ensure work is carried out to industry leading standards. Pen Tranch Farm has continued to increase its client base and is working to add new services to the business.

30 Farm Diversification Project Evaluation

Lessons Learnt 21% As part of the project evaluation, the RDP Mountain team asked grant applicants what advice they 31% Cwrt View would give to others. Below are some ‘do’s’ and Henllys Farm Produce ‘don’ts’. 19% Pen Tranch Fram Do Don’t 29% Pentre Expect others to Bach Farm Plenty of Research into conform to your pricing your products timescales Expect costs to rise during Set unrealistic long the set- up phase term goals Join relevant organisations Digress from your as soon as you can original business plan Work in partnership with STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES other businesses from the Unique Project in outset Torfaen requirements. Small number of eligible farms. In- depth business support and advice. Low overall project cost led to smaller Created links in the scale projects. farming community. Achievements OPPORTUNITIES THREATS 4 diversification projects advised and assisted. Cooperation with Current economic 2 enterprises created. partner organisations. climate. 2 jobs safeguarded. Future formal Increasing ‘Red Tape’ 3 new enterprises created. networking. in food industry. 4 new products and services launched. Strong foundation to Increasing local 3 projects improved environmental sustainability. attract future funding. competition.

31 3. Rural Tourism

This project was added after the initial launch as a result of consultation with the community. The project funded existing and pre- start tourism enterprises to improve their services or launch new tourism products.

Total Project Budget £31,109.50 EAFRD £24,888.60 Private Match £6,221.90 Capital Budget £29,504.50 Revenue Budget £1,605

32 Edlogan Bed and Breakfast

Total Project Cost £6,000 “The advice we received, and the Capital Costs £5,250 contacts we made through the RDP Revenue Costs £750 were invaluable” BOF Amount (80%) £4,800 Matched Funding (20%) £1,200 Own Edlogan is a newly established Bed and Source of matched funding Funding Breakfast run by Paul and Kathy Williams in Blaenavon. Based in a traditional Victorian terrace, guests are offered a large en-suite bedroom and large, private dining and living area. The business targets visitors to the nearby World Heritage Site, and customers of the Williams’ existing business, Paraventure Airsports, which offers tuition in Hang- Gliding. Edlogan used a Branching out Fund grant to renovate and furnish the guest area to a high standard. This included structural repairs to the property, furniture, and appliances to ensure accreditation from Visit Wales. An ever- increasing list of guests have experienced the high quality service offered at Edlogan, and plans are in place to extend the accommodation and offer ‘package’ tours of the local area.

33 Oakfield Bed and Breakfast

“The RDP has been instrumental in allowing us to make improvements Total Project Cost £5,367.50 to the property in order to improve Capital Costs £5,367.50 our service to visitors” Revenue Costs £0 Oakfield Bed and Breakfast run by Paul BOF Amount (80%) £4,294 and Heidi Scourfield, is on the doorstep of Matched Funding (20%) £1073.50 Own the Blaenavon World Heritage Centre. The Source of matched funding accommodation for up to 8 comprises a twin Funding room, a double room and a family room for up to four guests. An open fire, a selection of entertainments, and free Wi-Fi create a friendly and homely feel for guests.

Oakfield used a Branching out Fund grant to improve access to the property. A new gate was designed to echo the industrial heritage of the area and better define the entrance. Also, the guest car park was resurfaced and redesigned to accommodate an extra parking space. These developments have helped Oakfield work towards 5 star accreditation from Visit Wales. Oakfield continue to offer a high quality service for visitors to the area.

34 All Saints Church, Llanfrechfa

All Saints Church serves the parish of Llanfrechfa and Llandewi Fach. The historic building is open to visitors throughout the summer months with events held to attract tourists and local residents. All Saints Church used a Branching out Fund grant to hold a 5 day flower festival in May 2010. The aim of the festival was to attract tourists to the area, and to produce a report for other organisations to hold their own similar events. The event proved to be a great success with many local businesses and organisations benefitting. A report was produced to showcase the idea to other organisations across Wales.

Total Project Cost £2,755.11 Capital Costs £1,955.11 Revenue Costs £800 BOF Amount (80%) £2,204.08 Matched Funding (20%) £551.03 Source of matched funding Organisation

35 Lower Pen Tranch Farm

“The help and support given by the RDP was vital in helping us develop Total Project Cost £6,200 our ideas” Capital Costs £6,200 Revenue Costs £0 BOF Amount (80%) £4,960 Lower Pen Tranch Farm is an 8 acre Matched Funding (20%) £1,240 smallholding run by Deborah Edwards- Lowe Own Source of matched funding and husband Richard Edwards. The farm Funding produces rare breed pork, chicken, and lamb. In order to make the farm sustainable and maintain the land, Deborah and Richard are looking to diversify the farm business. Lower Pen Tranch Farm used a Branching out Fund grant to commission a feasibility study, business plan, and architects plans for a new venture, Pen Tranch Farm Stays. The proposal is to construct a holiday home with facilities for guests to bring dogs and horses.

Deborah and Richard are currently working towards submitting a planning application for the new venture which will include the feasibility study and business plan.

36 Rural Tourism Project Evaluation

Lessons Learnt As part of the project evaluation, the RDP team asked grant applicants what advice they would give to others. Below are some ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’. 19% Ty Shon Jacob Farm Do Don’t 9% All Saints Push a project through Church 20% Lower Work hard to achieve your that isn’t ready, take Pen Tranch goals your time and do it 17% Oakfield properly 16% Iron Thoroughly research your Rely on others to work Mountain Tours market before taking the to your high standards plunge 19% Edlogan Try to take over the B&B Keep learning and world in the first year, developing start small and develop! Take advice from professionals, there is lots to learn! STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES Unique project in Short timescale for Torfaen. Project Targets funding. Building capacity 6 Tourism Projects Funded Continued business in Torfaen tourism support needed. 6 Projects Advised and Assisted. industry. 1 Job Created. OPPORTUNITIES THREATS 2 Enterprises Created. Building links between Increasing 2 New Tourism Products Launched. tourism providers. competition. 2 Projects Aimed at Environmental Increasing visitor Current economic Sustainability. numbers. climate.

37 Rural Skills and Training

The project offered 100% funding for those living or working in the rural wards to gain new skills and qualifications. Applicants from a wide Training needs addressed range of backgrounds gained skills in anything • Management, Administrative and Marketing from Internet Marketing to Dry Stone Walling. Skills. Skills gaps addressed ranged from providing a The project has improved the employability, ‘Croeso Cynnes’ or ‘Warm Welcome’ for visitors occupational mobility, and earning potential to the area, to creating a marketing strategy of many people in the rural wards. Some have for an organisation. Training events were well gained formal qualifications, while others have attended and the skills gained will directly simply put new skills into practice in their daily contribute to economic development in Torfaen. lives. • ICT Skills. Training in online marketing accounted for the Applicants to the BOF scheme were also skills gained in this part of the project. Seminars encouraged to gain skills relevant to their and ‘hands on’ workshops were delivered to application. This has helped to ensure the a wide range of participants drawn from local sustainability of BOF projects. businesses, public organisations, and charities. Trainees took away vital skills in marketing their organisation through web- based media. Training was delivered by a Torfaen resident at locations across the Borough. • Maintenance and Enhancement of the Landscape. Training in maintenance and enhancement of the landscape accounted for the majority of the training project. Hedge laying, dry stone walling, fencing, and sheep shearing were among the skills gained by the participants. Many Torfaen locations were used to deliver the training creating additional environmental benefits as a result of the project. 38 Rural skills and Training Project Evaluation Number of individuals in training Number of training days provided

2011 2011 15 29 days 2009 12 2010 2010 61 days 45 2009 48 days

Achievements STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES Used training locations 72 individuals received training within Torfaen where Low overall project 138 training days provided. possible. budget. 30 individuals received a formal qualification Created referral Administrative mechanism to help all burden. applicants. Timescale of project. Worked in partnership with other funders. OPPORTUNITIES THREATS Improved occupational Expiration of mobility of participants. qualifications. Confidence and self Commitment of esteem building. participants to Strong ‘skills bank’ in complete training. local economy.

39 The RDP in Torfaen: The Future

Business Case 1 projects closed in May 2011. With support from the local community, the RDP Team have been successful in securing A Taste of Torfaen two projects for Business Case 2, The aim of this project is to support land based running until December 2013. producers in Torfaen, to grow capacity in food, art and craft products, renewable energy The Restoration of Llanyrafon and recycling. The project will employ a Rural Development Officer and Rural Support Officer Manor: Phase 2 to deliver the following activities: The second phase will complete the restoration, Business Support and Advice and provide revenue funding to employ a Rural Heritage Officer (RHO). The RHO will develop • Supporting the growth and development of and implement an Activity Programme for land based producers across Torfaen. the centre. The programme will include the Grant Support following: • Delivering a grant scheme to develop land • Interpretation events, including costumed based produce. tours of the house. Business Networking • Rural Nature Schools, to engage children and young people in their natural heritage. • Creating formal networks for land based producers across Torfaen. • Rural business showcases. Festivals and Events • Outdoor theatre and re-enactment events. • Hosting a number of festivals and events to The centre is due to be opened in April 2012. showcase land based produce in Torfaen.

40 41 For more information on any the projects mentioned in this booklet please contact the Torfaen Rural Development Team. 01495 742 147 [email protected]