31 August 2017
Chairman: Alderman A G Ewart MBE Vice-Chairman: Councillor A P Ewing Aldermen: W J Dillon MBE, D Drysdale, W A Leathem, S Martin Councillors: J Baird, S Carson, J Gallen, A Givan, A Grehan, U Mackin, T Mitchell, A Redpath and S Skillen
Ex Officio The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor T Morrow Deputy Mayor, Councillor H Legge
The Monthly Meeting of the Development Committee will be held in the Chestnut Suite, Island Civic Centre, The Island, Lisburn, on Wednesday, 6 September 2017 at 7.00 pm for the transaction of business on the undernoted Agenda.
Tea/Coffee available in Members Suite following the meeting.
You are requested to attend.
DR THERESA DONALDSON Chief Executive Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council
Agenda
1 Apologies
2 Declarations of Interest
3 Minutes - Meeting of the Development Committee held on 7 June 2017 (Copy Attached) - Special Meeting of the Development Committee held on 24 July 2017 (Copy Attached)
4 Deputations
5 Report by Director of Service Transformation
5.1 Report by the Principal Planning Officer (LDP)
Item for Decision
5.1.1 Update on LDP Work Programme: Draft Plan Strategy
Item for Noting
5.1.2 Guidance Published by NIEA relating to LDP
5.2 Report by Community Planning Manager
Items for Decision
5.2.1 Youth Council
5.2.2 Age Friendly Alliance
Items for Noting 5.2.3 DAERA Review of Decisions Consultation
5.2.4 Literature Festival
5.2.5 Action Planning
5.3 Report by Head of Economic Development
Items for Decision
5.3.1 Hotel Moratorium on Grant Aid
5.3.2 Correspondence from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) – Strategic Rural Tourism Funding
5.3.3 Preliminary Expenditure Application: Lisburn City Centre Framework
5.3.4 Preliminary Expenditure Application: Discover Waterways Lisburn - Delivery Phase
5.3.5 Strategic Revitalisation Project – Update and Request for Council Contribution
5.3.6 City Centre Masterplan Review: Tender Report
5.3.7 CIPR Pride Awards 2017: Finalist, Lisburn City Centre Gift Guide
5.3.8 TNI Consultation – Provision of an Accessible/Disable Parking Bay Opposite 49 Seymour Street, Lisburn
5.3.9 Attendance at World Travel Market, Excel, London 6-8 November 2017
5.3.10 Holiday World Dublin 26-28 January 2018
5.3.11 Business Mentoring Programme
5.3.12 Made in Lisburn & Castlereagh (MILC)
5.3.13 Feasibility Study to assess Potential for a Lisburn Castlereagh Business Incubation Hub
5.3.14 MIPIM UK, Olympia London 18-19 October 2017
5.3.15 Castle Street Car Park – Request for Use by NIE
5.3.16 Hillsborough Projects Update
5.3.17 City Promotion Budget – Project Evaluations
5.3.17.1 Balmoral Show Evaluation
5.3.17.2 Pipe Band Championships Evaluation 5.3.18 Lisburn Chamber of Commerce Business BBQ – 14 September 2017
Items for Noting
5.3.19 Heathrow Logistics Hub Bid – Update
5.3.20 Northern Ireland Business Start Up Programme (NIBSUP)
5.3.21 NILGA: Broadband, “Local Needs, Local Solutions” Wednesday 27 September 2017 9.30 am Craigavon Civic Centre
5.3.22 Erasmus+ Letter of Offer – Age Friendly Communities
5.2.23 Entrepreneurs Network and Female Entrepreneurs Network Schedule of Events 2017-2018
5.2.24 Budget Report – Economic Development
6. Confidential Business –“In Committee”
Members are requested to go to the Confidential Folder to access the Development Committee confidential report.
6.1 Confidential Report by Director of Service Transformation
Items for Decision
6.1.1 Seasonal Car Park Charges – Lisburn City Centre (Confidential due to information relating to the financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned)
6.1.2 LDP Work Programme – Extension to Contract with SIB (Confidential due to information relating to the financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned)
Items for Noting
6.1.3 Lisburn Public Realm Update (Confidential due to information in relation to which a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in legal proceedings)
6.1.4 Regional City Deal (Confidential due to information relating to the financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned)
6.1.5 Update on BMAP (Confidential due to information in relation to which a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in legal proceedings)
6.1.6 Rolling Year Absence Figures for the Director’s Administration Team and Economic Development for the period 1 April 2016 to 31 July 2107 (Confidential for reason of information likely to reveal the identity of an individual(s))
7. Any other Business
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To: Members of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council DC 07/06/2017 LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the proceedings of the Development Committee Meeting of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council held in the Island Civic Centre, Lisburn, BT27 4RL on Wednesday, 7 June 2017 at 7.00 pm
PRESENT: Councillor U Mackin, Chairman
Aldermen W J Dillon MBE, D Drysdale and A G Ewart
Councillors O Gawith, A Givan, A Grehan, H Legge, T Mitchell and C Quinn
OTHER MEMBERS: Alderman J Tinsley and Councillor L Poots
IN ATTENDANCE: Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council
Chief Executive Director of Service Transformation Lead Head of Planning & Building Control Head of Economic Development Head of Building Control Principal Planning Officer (Ms L Jackson) Member Services Officer
Commencement of Meeting
The Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, welcomed Members to the June meeting of the Development Committee to which all Members of Council had been invited to attend in view of the attendance of representatives from Tughans Solicitors in connection with the Lisburn Public Realm Scheme.
The Chairman reminded everyone to ensure mobile phones were turned off or on silent mode for the duration of the meeting and stated that should any Member require to leave the meeting to notify the Members Services Officer in order that their departure could be recorded accurately in the minutes.
1. Apologies
It was agreed to accept apologies for non-attendance at the meeting on behalf of The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor B Bloomfield, Councillors S Carson, A P Ewing, J Gallen and M H Tolerton.
It was noted that some Members may be arriving late to the meeting due to the earlier meeting of the Environmental Services Committee having over-ran.
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DC 07/06/2017 2. Declarations of Interest
The Chairman invited Members to declare any Conflicts of Interest they might have in relation to the business of the meeting and reminded them of the requirement that they complete Declaration of Interest forms in this regard, which had been provided at the meeting.
During the course of the meeting Declaration of Interest forms had been completed by Alderman D Drysdale in connection with the following items in view of his chairmanship of Inspire Business Park:
6.2.8 Lisburn Castlereagh Hour Twitter Proposal
6.2.13 Erasmus + Mainstreaming Student Entrepreneurship Project – Needs & Opportunities Position Paper The Head of Building Control and the Principal Planning Officer left the meeting.
3. Minutes
It was agreed that the Minutes of the meeting of Committee held on 3 May 2017, as adopted by the Council at its meeting on 23 May 2017, be confirmed and signed.
Confidential Business
At this point in the meeting the Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, advised that representatives of Tughans Solicitors, were in attendance in order to present an update on the Judgment of the Lisburn Public Realm Scheme Judicial Review.
The Chairman advised that as the above-mentioned presentation was required to be received “In Committee” all of the Confidential Report items would be considered following the presentation.
In keeping with normal practice the Chairman outlined the reasons for confidentiality each item of business, as follows:
- Lisburn City Centre Public Realm Scheme (a) Update on Judgment of Judicial Review and (b) Equality Impact Assessment and Independent Investigation (Confidential due to information in relation to which a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in legal proceedings)
- Hilden Mill (Confidential due to information relating to the financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned)
- Lisburn City Centre Hotel Project (Confidential due to information relating to the financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned)
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DC 07/06/2017 Confidential Business (Cont’d)
- Hillsborough Oyster Festival (Confidential due to information relating to the financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned)
- Rolling Year Absence Figures for the Director’s Administration Team and Economic Development (Confidential for reason of information likely to reveal the identity of an individual)
- Department for Communities (DfC) – Affordable Warmth Project - Funding and Targets for 2017/2018 (confidential due to information likely to reveal the identity of an individual(s)
- Request for Voluntary Severance (confidential due to information likely to reveal the identity of an individual(s))
- Lead Head of Planning and Building Control (Confidential due to information relating to the financial affairs of the individual concerned)
- Rolling Year Absence Figures for Building Control and the Director’s Administration Team (Confidential for reason of information likely to reveal the identity of an individual)
- Orange Arch, Market Square, Lisburn (Confidential due to information relating to the financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned)
It was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Councillor A Grehan, and agreed that the Presentation by Tughans and the Confidential Reports be considered “In Committee” in the absence of the press or members of the public.
“In Committee”
4. Deputation - Lisburn City Centre Public Realm Scheme
4.1 Update on Judgment of Judicial Review
The following documentation had been furnished to the Committee in connection with the above matter:
a) copy of the Public Realm Judicial Review judgment which had been previously reported to the Council
b) copy of the Solicitor’s narrative which had also been presented to the May meeting of Council
c) advice Note from the Council’s Senior Counsel in this case, Dr Tony McGleenan QC, for Members’ attention.
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DC 07/06/2017 4.1 Update on Judgment of Judicial Review Cont’d)
The Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, extended a welcome to Mr Patrick Brown and Ms Nadine Brennan from Tughans Solicitors.
Mr Brown thanked the Committee for the opportunity to provide an update on the judgment of the Judicial Review and to answer Members’ questions thereon.
Mr Brown advised that the Committee was required to make a decision on whether or not an appeal would be submitted by the Council on the judgment of the Judicial Review and proceeded to outline the background to the judicial review following which he provided the Committee with an overview of the judgment.
Alderman D Drysdale and Councillor A Givan entered the meeting (7.25 pm).
At the conclusion of the presentation Mr Brown responded to questions and comments from the Committee in relation to the outcome of the judgment and the way forward for the Council. Questions were raised in relation to the requirement of the Council to undertake an Equality Impact Assessment for the Lisburn Public Realm Scheme.
It was agreed to consider item 1.2 of the Head of Economic Development’s Confidential report as part of the presentation by the Council’s legal advisors.
4.2 Equality Impact Assessment and Independent Investigation
The Chief Executive presented the above item of business.
Members were reminded of the decision of the Council at its meeting on 23 May 2017 that a report be prepared for consideration by the Development Committee which set out the terms of reference for an independent investigation to be carried out in relation to not only the equality issues surrounding the Lisburn City Centre Public Realm scheme, but the entire Scheme and the procedures followed by Council Officers as well as the consultants engaged by the Council.
A copy of the draft Terms of Reference had been circulated to the Committee, it being noted that an independent consultant, Mr Roger McKnight, had been appointed by the Council to undertake the investigation and that a consultant specialising in equality, Mr John Kremer, had been engaged to undertake the Equality Impact Assessment for the Public Realm Scheme which would commence as a priority.
The Chief Executive advised that a letter from the Council had been sent to the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland in regard to the actions taken in connection with the above-mentioned independent investigation.
The Chief Executive recommended that future reports in relation to the Lisburn Public Realm Equality Impact Assessment be brought to the Governance & Audit Committee for detailed consideration and discussion, the Governance & Audit Committee being
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DC 07/06/2017 4.2 Equality Impact Assessment and Independent Investigation (Cont’d)
the more appropriate Committee to take this matter forward. The recommendation of the Chief Executive was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Alderman W J Dillon and agreed.
In conclusion, Mr Brown recommended that in order to have a degree of completeness in this matter that the Council considers seeking a reduction in costs in relation to the Judicial Review.
Councillor H Legge entered the meeting at 7.34 pm.
The Chairman thanked Mr Brown and Ms Brennan for their informative contribution following which the left the meeting (7.34 pm).
It was agreed to recommend that the summary reports and recommendations of the Council’s legal advisers in relation to the Lisburn Public Realm Judicial Review, as previously circulated, be agreed, it being noted that the Council, on the advice of the Solicitors, would not submit an appeal on the judgment, but would seek a reduction in costs in relation to the Judicial Review.
5. Confidential Business
5.1 Confidential Report by the Head of Economic Development
5.1.1 Lisburn City Centre Public Realm Scheme
5.1.1.1 Update on Judgment of Judicial Review
Dealt with earlier in the meeting (Item 4.1 above refers).
5.1.1.2 Equality Impact Assessment and Independent Investigation
Dealt with earlier in the meeting (Item 4.2 above refers).
5.1.2 Hilden Mill
The Chief Executive presented this item.
Members were advised that Officers had been in discussions, over the last number of months, with the developer of the Hilden Mill site which had resulted in a site visit at Hilden Mill on Friday, 26 May 2017. It was noted that the site visit had been attended by the Chief Executive, the Director of Leisure Services & Community Development, the Director of Service Transformation, the Head of Planning & Building Control, the Head of Economic Development and Una Duffy, Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, stated that he too had attended the above- mentioned site visit and requested that his attendance be recorded accordingly.
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5.1.2 Hilden Mill (Cont’d)
The Chief Executive and the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control responded to comments from Alderman W J Dillon in regard to the Council’s plans for the development of the Hilden Mill site.
It was agreed that the update report on the Hilden Mill site be noted.
Welcome to New Director of Service Transformation
At this juncture the Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, extended a welcome to Mr Donal Rogan, who had recently take up the position of Director of Service Transformation with the Council and who was in attendance at his first meeting of the Development Committee.
5.1.3 Lisburn City Centre Hotel Project – Update
Alderman J Tinsley entered the meeting at 7.40 pm and left again along with Alderman D Drysdale (7.41 pm).
The Head of Economic Development updated the Committee in regard to the City Centre Hotel project.
It was agreed that the update in regard to the Lisburn City Centre Hotel Project be noted.
5.1.4 Hillsborough Oyster Festival
The Head of Economic Development having reminded Members of the decisions of the Committee at its previous meeting in regard to the Hillsborough Oyster Festival, reported that in the process of Officers enacting the Council’s decision points, the Chairman of the Oyster Festival had confirmed that the Oyster Festival Committee had decided that, due to sponsorship issues, to postpone the Festival for 2017.
It was agreed that the update report on the Hillsborough Oyster Festival be noted.
5.1.5 Rolling Year Absence Figures for the Director’s Administration Team and Economic Development
The Committee had been furnished with a table showing rolling year absence figures for the Director’s Administration Team and Economic Development for the period 1 April 2016 to 30 April 2017.
It was agreed that the Rolling Year Absence report as at 30 April 2017 be noted.
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DC 07/06/2017 5.2 Confidential Report by Lead Head of Planning and Building Control
Items for Decision
5.2.1 Confidential Report by Head of Building Control
5.2.1.1 Department for Communities (DfC) – Affordable Warmth Project - Funding and Targets for 2017/2018
In the absence of the Head of Building Control the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control presented this item.
Alderman D Drysdale returned to the meeting at 7.44 pm.
The Lead Head of Planning & Building Control advised the Committee that further information was expected from the Department in relation to funding and targets for the Affordable Warmth Scheme and that a further report on this matter would be brought before the Council in due course.
It was agreed that the update on this matter be noted.
Councillor L Poots entered the meeting at 7.45 pm.
The Lead Head of Planning and Building Control left the meeting (7.45 pm).
5.2.2 Request for Voluntary Severance
The Chief Executive presented this item.
Members were reminded of the decision of the Committee at its Meeting held on 3 May 2017 to agree, in principle, to the voluntary severance of the Planning Manager on 21 July 2017, and noting that the Council had identified through the NI Civil Service that a business case for such a release met the requirements of the Scheme.
The Committee had been provided with a further report detailing the business case and associated costs in connection with the voluntary severance of the Planning Manager.
It was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Alderman A G Ewart, and agreed to recommend that the request for voluntary severance by the Planning Manager, to be released through the Northern Ireland Civil Service Voluntary Exit Scheme on 21 July 2017, be acceded to.
The Chief Executive and the Director of Service Transformation responded to questions from Alderman W J Dillon and Alderman A G Ewart in connection with efficiency savings, and provided clarification thereon.
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DC 07/06/2017 5.2.3 Lead Head of Planning & Building Control
The Committee had been circulated with a report in connection with the post of Lead Head of Planning & Building Control.
It was agreed to recommend that the proposals as outlined in the above-mentioned report be approved, namely; that the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control remains in post, fixed term, until the end of September 2017, at which time the arrangements would be considered.
Item for Noting
The Lead Head of Planning & Building Control, Head of Building Control and the Principal Planning Officer returned to the Meeting.
5.2.4 Rolling Year Absence Figures for Building Control and the Director’s Administration Team for the period 1 April 2016 to 30 April 2017
The Committee had been furnished with a table showing rolling year absence figures for Building Control and the Director’s Administration team for the period 1 April 2016 to 30 April 2017.
It was agreed that the Rolling Year Absence report as at 30 April 2017 be noted.
Verbal Matter by Head of Economic Development
5.2.5 Lisburn Public Realm Scheme - Equality Impact Assessment and Independent Investigation
The Head of Economic Development reported that a second complaint in connection with the construction process of the Lisburn Public Realm Scheme had been lodged with the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, and that a report on this matter would be brought to the Governance & Audit Committee in due course.
Additional Confidential Report by Head of Economic Development
5.2.6 Orange Arch – Market Square
The Head of Economic Development reminded the Members that the Council had granted delegated authority to the Development Committee to progress this matter.
The Head of Economic Development outlined in his report the decisions of the Committee in connection with the above subject at its previous meeting: namely,
- the Council support the reinstatement of the Orange Arch in Market Square at a maximum cost of £9,000 subject to conditions underground being satisfactory, and
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DC 07/06/2017 5.2.6 Orange Arch – Market Square (Cont’d)
- should ground conditions prove unsatisfactory and additional expenditure be required as a result, a further report would come back to committee for consideration.
The Head of Economic Development updated the Committee in regard to necessary works involved with repairing the foundations, re-routing of the NIE cable and re- erection of the arch, such information having been received from NIE on Monday, 5 June 2017.
It was proposed by Alderman A G Ewart, seconded by Alderman W J Dillon, and agreed that the additional expenditure in connection with the reinstatement of the Orange Arch in Market Square be agreed, it being noted that the total cost to reinstate the Orange Arch was £14,439.17 + VAT, this being due to additional costs by NIE and which included the repaving of the granite surface by the contractor.
It was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Alderman A G Ewart, and agreed to come out of Committee and normal business was resumed.
Resumption of Normal Business
6. Reports by the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control and the Lead Head of Development
6.1 Report by Lead Head of Planning and Building Control
It was agreed that the report and recommendations of the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control be adopted subject to any decisions recorded below:
6.1.1 Report by Head of Building Control
Items for Decision
6.1.1.1 Street Naming off Graham Street, Lisburn
The Head of Building Control reported that Connswater Homes had proposed the name for a development that consisted of 15 apartments off Graham Street, Lisburn. A copy of the development layout had been circulated to the Committee for Members’ information.
It was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Councillor A Givan, and agreed to recommend that the name Graham Street Mews which met the requirements of the Council’s Street Naming Policy in that the name proposal was in keeping with the surrounding and existing street name, Graham Street, there being no objections to this proposal having been received from the Elected Members of the relevant District Electoral Area or from the Royal Mail Address Management Team.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.1.1.2 Street Naming off Damhead Road, Lisburn
The Head of Building Control reported that McDowell Contracts had proposed the name for a development that consisted of 4 dwellings off the Damhead Road in Lisburn.
A copy of the development layout had been circulated to the Committee for Members’ information.
It was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Councillor A Givan, and agreed to recommend that the name Damhead Mews which met the requirements of the Council’s Street Naming Policy in that the name proposal was in keeping with the surrounding and existing street name, Damhead Road, there being no objections to this proposal having been received from the Elected Members of the relevant District Electoral Area or from the Royal Mail Address Management Team.
Items for Noting
6.1.1.3 Building Control Applications – Full Plan Applications and Regularisation Certificates
The Committee noted the undernoted information in regard to the Full Plan Applications ‘Approved’ and Regularisation Certificates issued in accordance with the powers delegated for the Months of February 2017, March 2017 and April 2017.
Month Full Plan Regularisation Approvals Certificates February 2017 181 41 March 2017 54 53 April 2017 100 38
6.1.1.4 Department of Finance – Completion Notice Ready Report to Land and Property Services
The Committee noted the undernoted information in regard to Completion Notice Ready Reports for the months of February 2017 to April 2017 returned to the Department of Finance and Personnel, Land and Property Services, in relation to the number of properties that had been identified as having reached Occupiable Status.
Month Completion Notice Ready February 2017 49 March 2017 82 April 2017 56
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DC 07/06/2017 6.1.1.5 Department for Communities – Affordable Warmth Project
The Committee noted that the Council had achieved the target set by the Department of delivering 506 referrals to the Scheme for the financial year 2016/2017.
The Head of Building Control reminded Members that the Home Assessment Officers within the Building Control Service had been set a revised target for the first quarter of financial year 2017/2018, of 25 referrals to NIHE per month. The following number of home visits and eligible referrals for home improvements had been made to the NIHE after financial checks for the Affordable Warmth Scheme. In addition, the Council Officers had also made the following number of referrals to the ‘Make the Call’ team.
Month Home Visits Completed and Eligible ‘Make the Carried Out Referrals to NIHE (after Call’ financial checks) April 108 25 19 2017
Further to the request of the Committee that the Council assist in the dissemination of information in relation to energy efficiency schemes that were administered by other agencies, the Head of Building Control reported that the Building Control team had now arranged for the relevant links to be placed on the Council’s website to direct residents to the appropriate information in regards to energy efficiency measures, which they may be able to avail, namely:
• NI DIRECT – https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/energy-efficiency-grants • Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme 2017-18 (NISEP) – https://www.uregni.gov.uk/publications/nisep-list-schemes-2017-18
Downloaded information for both the above schemes had been circulated to the Committee, it being noted that eligibility for these schemes was outside the Council’s control or remit.
It was agreed that the report by the Head of Building Control be noted.
6.1.1.6 Land & Property Services (LPS), Quarter 1 2017/18 New Dwelling Statistical Reports
The Head of Building Control reminded Members that LPS published quarterly figures of the “Northern Ireland New Dwelling Statistics” from the information provided by Building Control Services across Northern Ireland. The full suite of statistics was available on the following link: https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/new- dwelling-statistics-report
The Head of Building Control drew Members’ attention to the favourable statistics, against other councils, within the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area in relation to the new dwelling starts and completions, an extract of the relevant tables from the above-mentioned website had been furnished to the Committee. 554
DC 07/06/2017 Item for Discussion
6.1.1.7 Property Services Liaison Group (PSLG) – Addressing Best Practice
The Head Building Control reported receipt of a letter dated 5 May 2017 from Land & Property Services (LPS) Chief Executive recognising the good work of PSLG and benefits to both local and central government.
The Head of Building Control advised that the PSLG was a group that met quarterly with representation from LPS valuation, statistics, mapping and Pointer sections, with local government being represented by local council Building Control representatives who were responsible for street naming and numbering and the transfer of statistical information to LPS for rating purposes, on Council’s behalf.
It was noted the LPS Chief Executive had requested that Councils agree and adopt the undernoted two papers which had been attached to his correspondence and which had been circulated to the Committee: a) ‘Addressing Best Practice’ paper and had largely been agreed as a reasonable attempt to ‘standardise’ the address format used in NI, so ensuring consistency. However, the use of the Town field had not been universally agreed and required further discussion at PSLG. b) ‘Unverified Address’ paper, and had been agreed as stated within the correspondence. This paper mainly dealt with unofficial address discovered by LPS when a valuer or benefit claimant registered an address that was not matched on Pointer. It contained a list of scenarios and how they should be dealt with to ensure that the Council can investigate, apply the appropriate legislation and also allow the timely issuing of rates bills.
The Head of Building Control advised that the above documents were ‘best practice’ and did not place any binding arrangement on Councils.
It was agreed to recommend that the Head of Building Control respond to LPS to advise that Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council agreed, in principle, to the Addressing Best Practice papers but that this Council would require further consultation and discussion in relation to the proposed population of the ‘town’ and ‘locality’ fields contained in paper ‘a)’ above, in order to reach agreement.
6.1.2 Planning Performance Management Framework
The Committee had been furnished with a copy of a letter dated 12 May 2017 and draft Planning Performance Management Framework documents received from the Department for Infrastructure, together with a copy of the proposed Council response to the draft framework.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.1.2 Planning Performance Management Framework (Cont’d)
It was proposed by Alderman W J Dillon, seconded by Councillor O Gawith, and agreed to recommend that proposed response to the draft Planning Performance Framework be agreed.
The Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, commended the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control and his team for this comprehensive piece of work and asked that his thanks and commendation be conveyed to the Officers concerned.
6.1.3 Local Development Plan: Establishment of Greater Belfast Working Group
The Principal Planning Officer presented this item.
The Committee had been furnished with a report regarding the establishment of a Greater Belfast Working Group to take forward common development plan issues and to encourage effective engagement between participating Councils and statutory consultees on key issues.
The Principal Planning Officer reported that the Greater Belfast Working Group would encompass Belfast City Council, Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council, Mid & East Antrim Borough Council and Ards & North Down Borough Council.
A discussion ensued during which the Principal Planning Officer responded to questions and concerns from the Committee in connection with the Council’s involvement on the Greater Belfast Working Group, particularly in view of recent disputes concerning Belfast City Council, and the recommendation that there be elected member involvement also on this working group.
It was proposed Alderman W J Dillon, seconded by Councillor O Gawith, and agreed to recommend that approval be granted for Council Officers to engage with the Greater Belfast Working Group and that any proposals or decisions arising thereon be brought back to the Council for consideration.
6.1.4 Procurement for Specialist Studies for Draft Plan Strategy
The Committee had been furnished with a report regarding the need for independent specialist expertise to advise on retailing, housing and employment, and office studies, to support the ongoing preparation of the Plan Strategy for the Local Development Plan, which would ensure that the Council had a robust and sound evidence base going forward.
The Lead Head of Planning & Building Control responded to questions and concerns from Members who had requested clarification on the appointment of a specialist consultant and if this was a new appointment by the Council. In response to a further question the Lead Head confirmed that budget been built into this year’s budget allocation for the associated cost of this specialist consultant.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.1.4 Procurement for Specialist Studies for Draft Plan Strategy (Cont’d)
In response to further comments from Members about staffing levels within the Council, the Chief Executive assured the Committee that any requirement for additional staff would be brought before the Council with a business case to support the argument.
Following further discussion it was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Councillor C Quinn, and agreed to recommend that the Committee agrees the procurement of independent specialist expertise to advise on key areas to support the preparation of the Draft Plan Strategy.
6.1.5 Consultations on Planning Applications – Corporate View
6.1.5.1 Planning Application LA03/2017/0310/F - Application for the Extraction, transportation and working of sand and gravel from Lough Neagh
The Committee had been furnished with a copy of a letter dated 24 May 2017 received from the Department for Infrastructure, Strategic Planning Division, seeking the Council’s views on the above planning application.
It was proposed by Alderman D Drysdale, seconded by Councillor C Quinn, and agreed to recommend that any comments that Members wish to make on the above planning application be forwarded to the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control by close of business on Friday, 16 June 2017.
6.1.5.2 Enforcement Issue – Land at Lough Neagh
The Lead Head of Planning and Building Control reminded the Committee that at its meeting held in December 2016 Members considered correspondence and an environmental statement received from the Planning Appeals Commission regarding an enforcement issue in relation to alleged unauthorised working of minerals on land at Lough Neagh.
A further letter received from the Planning Appeals Commission regarding and updated environmental statement had been circulated to the Committee.
It was noted that a number of chapters of the updated environmental statement had been uploaded to SharePoint for Members viewing, and that the entire volumes making up the environmental statement had been made available on CD for any Member wishing to view its entire contents.
It was proposed by Alderman D Drysdale, seconded by Councillor C Quinn, and agreed to recommend that any comments that the Committee wished to make on the Lough Neagh Enforcement Issue be submitted to the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control by close of business on Wednesday, 14 June 2017, and should there
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DC 07/06/2017 6.1.5.2 Enforcement Issue – Land at Lough Neagh Cont’d) be no comments from Members a response be submitted to the Department to advise that the Council noted the content of the updated Environmental Statement.
6.1.6 Department for Infrastructure - Proposed Abandonment – The Manor, Black’s Road, Belfast
The Committee had been furnished with a copy of correspondence, including a map and draft order, from Transport NI in relation to a proposed abandonment at The Manor, Black’s Road, Belfast.
It was agreed to recommend that the proposed Abandonment at The Manor, Black’s Road, Belfast, be noted, no objections having been received from Members present at the meeting.
6.1.7 Advertising Arrangements for the Planning Unit
The Lead Head of Planning and Building Control reminded the Committee that the Planning Unit was obliged under legislation to publish details of planning applications received in at least one newspaper circulating in the locality.
It was noted that the current advertising contract expired in early September 2017 and that the objective of the new contract was to allow Council to continue to discharge its legal obligations to advertise the relevant types of planning applications and consents in the one required newspaper.
The Committee had been circulated with a copy of an appraisal pro forma which had been agreed by the Finance Unit and was now being presented to Committee for consideration and approval.
It was proposed by Councillor A Grehan, seconded by Alderman W J Dillon, and agreed to recommend that the recommendations contained within the financial appraisal pro forma be agreed and that the procurement exercise in relation to the Advertising Arrangements for the Planning Unit proceed accordingly.
Items for Noting
6.1.8 Draft Plan Strategy Work Programme
The Principal Planning Officer presented this item.
The Committee had been furnished with and noted the content of a report regarding the key areas of work that would be required in terms of the preparation of the draft Plan Strategy in connection with the Local Development Plan.
The Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, thanked the Principal Planning Officer and her team for their efforts in bring together the Draft Plan Strategy Work Progamme.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.1.9 Response to the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Preferred Options Paper
The Committee had been furnished with and noted the content of a letter dated received from Belfast City Council in response to the Council’s Preferred Options Paper.
6.1.10 Budget Report – Building Control
The had been furnished with and noted the content of a summary Budget Report for Building Control for the year to 31 March 2018 as at 30 April 2017.
Verbal Matter
6.1.11 A1 Junctions Phase 2 Hillsborough to Loughbrickland Community Consultation Event
The Lead Head of Planning & Building Control advised Members that the Community Consultation event in regard to the above-mentioned A1 Junctions (Phase 2) Road Improvement Scheme was taking place in Hillsborough Court House on Tuesday 20 June 2017 from 11.00 am to 8.00 pm.
The Lead Head of Planning and Building Control left the meeting at 8.41 pm.
6.2 Report by Head of Economic Development
It was agreed that the report and recommendations of the Head of Economic Development be adopted subject to any decisions recorded below.
Items for Decision
6.2.1 Heathrow Invites Expressions of Interest to Host New Off-Site Logistic Hubs
The Committee had been furnished with a copy of an email dated 1 May 2017 which the Chief Executive had received from the Rt. Hon. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP, and which outlined proposals from Heathrow Airport to develop four new off-site logistics hubs. It was noted that Heathrow Airport were inviting local authorities and economic and business agencies to submit expressions of interest for suitable sites across their respective region to be part of Heathrow’s expansion plans.
The Head of Economic Development advised that interested applicants were requested to access https://procurement.heathrow.com to register their interest and complete an Expression of Interest questionnaire before 31st July 2017. All applications would be considered by Heathrow and a list of potential sites is expected to be announced later this year.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.2.1 Heathrow Invites Expressions of Interest to Host New Off-Site Logistic Hubs (Cont’d)
A copy of a promotional brochure entitled “Heathrow Logistics Brochure” was circulated at the Meeting.
It was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Councillor A Grehan, and agreed to recommend that the Council, through the Economic Development Unit, works in partnership with relevant local stakeholders including possibly other councils, to develop and submit an Expression of Interest for suitable sites identified in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area, to be considered as one of the new Heathrow off-site logistics hub.
6.2.2 Inward Investment Proposition Update 2016-2017
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members of the ongoing programme of activity to promote inward investment and to raise the profile of the City as a premier inward investment location.
The Head of Economic Development reported that the Council had contracted Mr James Gray from Cambridge Competitive Advantage to initially deliver a three-year programme up to 31 March 2016 (renewed annually) of targeted marketing and investment activity which presented the City’s value proposition clearly, and to as wide an audience as possible, as well as identifying priority sectors where Lisburn & Castlereagh’s inward investment offer was strongest, with the overall aim of increasing levels of inward investment into the City. The Head of Economic Development advised that the contract with Cambridge Competitive Advantage had been subsequently extended for a further 10 months up until the end of March 2017.
The Committee had been furnished with the final update report on this additional activity with key outputs achieved and which also included an overview of Council-led inward investment initiatives recommended to take place during 2017/2018.
It was proposed by Councillor O Gawith, seconded by Councillor A Grehan, and agreed to recommend that the Committee notes the contents of the update report in relation to Inward Investment activities, and agrees the proposed investment activity as outlined.
6.2.3 International Trade Development Programme – Netherlands Trade Programme
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members of the annual Council- led Trade Development Programme to the Netherlands, delivered by Northern Ireland Trade Consultants (NITC) and reported that in 2017, five local businesses had been supported to research this key European market, with initial feedback indicating potential new trade opportunities of circa £250,000, with one company quoting an additional £3million export potential. An initial post market visit evaluation report on the Netherlands Trade Programme had been circulated to the Committee.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.2.3 International Trade Development Programme – Netherlands Trade Programme (Cont’d)
It was proposed by Alderman A G Ewart, seconded by Alderman W J Dillon, and agreed to recommend that building on the success of the Netherlands Trade Programme to date, the Committee supports a further trade programme to the Netherlands in 2017-2018, at a maximum cost of up to £29,960 for a minimum of six local companies, with a planned 3 day market visit in early 2018.
6.2.4 Business Mentoring Programme
The Head of Economic Development reported that following the high profile Evolution Programme which had delivered a programme of bespoke mentoring for over 500 local businesses from 2014-2015, the Development Committee had agreed to fund the delivery of a series of Business Mentoring Programmes to build upon the success of Evolution and continue this Council-led one-to-one engagement with companies. To date the Council had supported a further three such Mentoring Programmes with a total of 92 local companies receiving support as part of this initiative. A report outlining an overview of these additional Mentoring Programmes had been furnished to the Committee.
It was noted that due to continued high demand for the programme, there was currently a waiting list of 12 businesses, with this list growing on a daily basis.
It was proposed by Alderman D Drysdale, seconded by Alderman W J Dillon, and agreed to recommend that in order that the Council continued to deliver this valuable business support service, a new phase of the programme be procured which would accommodate up to 30 businesses (or 425 hours of mentor support), at a maximum cost of £25,500.
6.2.5 Sales Development Programme
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members that a Sales Development Programme had been delivered by Full Circle Management Solutions in 2016 – 2017, and that a total of 10 companies from the Lisburn & Castlereagh City area had been recruited to take part in the programme.
A copy of the final evaluation report on the Sales Development Programme had been furnished to the Committee which showed that even though the programme had only just completed at the end of March 2017, six participating companies were able to confirm quantifiable outcomes: work to the value of £37,300 excluding VAT quoted, and £22,300 of new actual new sales, with 2 new jobs created.
It was proposed by Councillor T Mitchell, seconded by Councillor H Legge, and agreed to recommend that the Committee procures and delivers another Sales Development Programme to a further ten local businesses in 2017-2018 at a maximum cost of up to £25,000.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.2.6 “Creating a Pitch Deck” – Financial Projections Programme
The Head of Economic Development reported that as part of the Business Solutions offerings, it was proposed to develop a specialist Financial Projections Support Programme aimed at assisting businesses who have a requirement to submit a funding bid or prepare what’s known as a ‘pitch deck’ presentation for funding or to a potential investor.
It was noted that this programme would support new high growth start-ups and existing growth orientated businesses to develop their capacity in this area.
The Committee had been furnished with an overview of the proposed programme which would support up to 8 local companies, and overall increase the number of successful external funding bids which local companies develop.
It was proposed by Alderman W J Dillon, seconded by Alderman A G Ewart, and agreed to recommend that the Committee supports the ‘Pitch Deck’ and Financial Projections Programme at a maximum cost of £10,000.
6.2.7 Lisburn and Castlereagh City Business Awards 2018
The Head of Economic Development having reminded the Committee of the success of the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Business Awards held in La Mon Hotel in March 2016, reported that the Business Awards were held on a biannual basis, with the next awards scheduled to be launched in autumn 2017, in order for the event to take place in March 2018.
It was proposed by Alderman A G Ewart, seconded by Alderman W J Dillon, and agreed to recommend that
• given the Council’s prominence in local business development activities, and the key role this event played as part of the Council’s investment promotion activities, the Council once again acts as one of the main sponsors of the awards at a cost of up to a maximum of £10,000, and
• in line with previous years, the delivery of the main gala event and judging process be procured externally, with all associated costs of running the awards covered by third party sponsorship.
It was noted that this amount of sponsorship reflected the increased size and scale of the event, reflecting the new Council area, whilst maintaining and building upon the prestige and high profile it brings to Lisburn Castlereagh.
The Head of Economic Development responded to questions from Councillor A Grehan regarding the possibility of this year’s awards ceremony being held in the Island Hall, Island Civic Centre, Lisburn.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.2.7 Lisburn and Castlereagh City Business Awards 2018 (Cont’d)
At the request of Councillor A Grehan the Head of Economic Development undertook to forward the number of guests who had attended the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Business Awards in 2016 which had been held in La Mon House Hotel.
Councillor O Gawith left the meeting at 8.50 pm.
Further comments were noted from Alderman W J Dillon regarding the importance of the Council bringing large events to the Island Hall.
6.2.8 Lisburn Castlereagh Hour Twitter Proposal
Alderman D Drysdale left the meeting during consideration of this item (8.51 pm), having declared an interest in this matter earlier in the meeting.
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members of the ‘Lisburn Hour’, an online twitter forum for entrepreneurs and local businesses to connect online which takes place every Wednesday between 9pm – 10pm, originally a private sector initiative, and advised that the Council had been managing this account as part of its wider business engagement activities on a temporary basis, and as a result has seen the number of business follower’s increase to just over 2,700.
The Director of Service Transformation left the meeting at 8.52 pm and retuned at 8.54 pm.
The Head of Economic Development advised the Committee that the above initiative had been a successful platform for the Council to communicate with local businesses, as well as promoting Council-led Business Development initiatives and events, but that it had been never intended that the Council would manage the Lisburn Hour indefinitely, with the management reverting back to the private sector, as in the case in other jurisdictions with similar initiatives. It was noted that the Inspire Business Centre had been managing the Castlereagh Hour initiative.
The Committee had been furnished with a report outlining a number of options for the future management of the Lisburn Hour initiative for consideration as to the preferred way forward for this initiative. Members were advised that this initiative would also be considered in the context of the Council’s future strategic approach to digital communications and any associated procurement documentation would reflect this.
It was proposed by Alderman W J Dillon, seconded by Alderman A G Ewart, and agreed to recommend that Option 4 be the preferred option for the future management of this key online business networking forum, namely:
The Council invites other local economic statekholders including the Lisburn Chamber of Commerce, the two local enterprise centres (Lisburn Enterprise Organisation and Inspire Business Centre) and the South Eastern Regional
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6.2.8 Lisburn Castlereagh Hour Twitter Proposal (Cont’d)
College (SERC) to collaborate and agree a partnership approach to the future management of the project.
It was noted that the above option may entail a small financial contribution from the Council and partners involved in the scheme.
It was noted also that the Lisburn Hour initiative would be rebranded to reflect the new Council area, into the ‘Lisburn Castlereagh Hour’.
6.2.9 City Centre Christmas Events Programme
Alderman D Drysdale returned to the meeting at 9.00 pm.
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members that the City Centre Management team were delivering a programme of events in Market Square throughout the year.
The Committee had been furnished with a copy of a report outlining the proposed City Centre Christmas Events Programme which had been developed following feedback from City Centre businesses and the wider Stakeholder groups. Proposed activities included a Seasonal Fashion Event; Christmas Arts & Crafts Day; Rock around the Christmas Tree; along with production of a City Centre Gift Guide promoting gifts and services available in City Centre businesses.
It was agreed to recommend that the proposed City Centre Christmas Events Programme, as circulated, be agreed.
6.2.10 Lisburn Commerce Against Crime – CCTV Scheme Funding
Councillors T Mitchell and A Givan left the meeting at 9.01 pm.
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members that Lisburn Commerce Against Crime managed and monitored a Public Space CCTV Scheme across the Council area, and that in 2015 the Council had agreed to support a three-year funding period through an agreed financial appraisal.
The Committee had been furnished with an interim report outlining work to the end of year two of this three-year period.
The Head of Economic Development responded to a number of comments and concerns from the Committee in regard to the proposal to fund the third year of the CCTV scheme at a cost of £161,000 in view of the additional funding allocation in the sum of £25,000 that had been granted to Lisburn Commerce Against Crime (LCAC) the previous year which had been necessary due to a shortfall LCAC’s accounts.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.2.10 Lisburn Commerce Against Crime – CCTV Scheme Funding (Cont’d)
It was agreed to recommend that the content of the interim report on the CCTV Scheme be noted and that LCAC be provided with the third year of the previously approved funding at a cost of £161,600+ VAT, subject to their accounts being satisfactory and also stipulating to LCAC that this was a full and final amount for 2017/2018.
6.2.11 Consultation: Taxis in Bus Lanes, Department for Infrastructure
Councillor A Givan returned to the meeting at 9.10 pm.
The Head of Economic Development reported that the Department for Infrastructure was currently seeking responses to a consultation on a trial initiative they were running on the East and West Belfast Rapid Transit routes to permit taxis to use bus lanes during the operation al hours of 7am-7pm.
The Head of Economic Development advised that the consultation details could be found online at: https://consultations.nidirect.gov.uk/dfi-traffic-and-engineering-policy- branch/taxis-in-bus-lanes
The Committee had been furnished with a copy of a proposed response from the Council, it being noted that the Consultation period closed on Friday 16 June 2017.
It was proposed by Alderman D Drysdale, seconded by Councillor A Givan, and agreed to recommend that the proposed Council response to the consultation on Taxis in Bus Lanes be agreed and that any further comments that Members may wish to make on the consultation be forwarded to the Economic Development Unit by close of business on Wednesday, 14 June 2017.
Alderman D Drysdale stated that it would be worthwhile inviting responses to the above consultation from all Members of Council.
Alderman D Drysdale left the meeting at 9.12 pm.
6.2.12 Evaluation of Erasmus + Mainstreaming Student Entrepreneurship Project
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members that in September 2016 the Council had received a grant of €55,712 (circa £47,600) to deliver a project entitled ‘MASTER’ – Mainstreaming Student Entrepreneurship. The project aimed to collaborate with a range of vocational training delivery agents across Europe to research and pilot initiatives that would increase the opportunities for students to learn practical skills linked to running their own business and thus promote enterprise across the Council area.
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DC 07/06/2017 6.2.12 Evaluation of Erasmus + Mainstreaming Student Entrepreneurship Project (Cont’d)
It was noted that as part of the funding contract the Council was obliged to contract a third party to undertake a mid-term evaluation and final evaluation of the impact of the project outcomes, and that following a procurement exercise PACEC (Public & Corporate Economic Consultants Ltd) had been selected to undertake this assignment at a cost of £12,400.
The Head of Economic Development reported that the Erasmus + grant contribution towards this cost would be £7,750, and that it was therefore proposed that the Council meets the £4,650 shortfall in funding in order to meet overall grant contractual obligations.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council meets the £4,650 shortfall in funding to meet the full costs (£12,400) of contracting PACEC to undertake a mid-term evaluation and final evaluation of the aforementioned Mainstreaming Student Entrepreneurship project.
6.2.13 Erasmus + Mainstreaming Student Entrepreneurship Project – Needs & Opportunities Position Paper
The Head of Economic Development reported that as part of the funding contract for the Mainstreaming Student Entrepreneurship Project as already outlined in item 5.3.12 above, the Council was also obliged to undertake a position paper to review current national and EU policy and best practice in entrepreneurship education that would help to inform future actions to be undertaken to encourage entrepreneurship education in the Council area.
It was agreed to recommend that the Committee contracts an experienced third party organisation to undertake a needs and opportunities position paper for the Mainstreaming Student Entrepreneurship Project at an estimated cost of £3,000 to meet grant obligations in this regard, it being noted that costs related to this assignment can be met in full by the aforementioned Erasmus + grant allocation.
6.2.14 Motion to Reinstate the Area of Natural Constraint Scheme
The Committee had been furnished with a copy of correspondence dated 9 May 2017 from the Chief Executive of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council requesting that the Council supports the motion to lobby the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to review its current decision to reduce the Area of Natural Constraint (ANC) Scheme funding by 60% and then to withdraw it in 2018.
Members noted that the ANC Scheme had replaced the Less Favoured Area Compensatory Allowances (LFACA) Scheme since 2016 and provided payment to farmers with land in constrained areas (i.e. within less favoured farming areas) to compensate for all or part of the additional costs and income forgone related purely to the constraints for agricultural production in the area.
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6.2.14 Motion to Reinstate the Area of Natural Constraint Scheme (Cont’d)
It was proposed by Alderman W J Dillon, seconded by Councillor A Givan, and agreed to recommend that the Council supports the motion by Fermanagh & Omagh District Council to reinstate the Area of Natural Constraint Scheme as outlined above.
Alderman D Drysdale returned to the meeting at 9.15 pm.
6.2.15 Draft Bye-Laws in respect of Lisburn Market
The Committee had been furnished with a copy of the revised draft bye-laws in respect of Lisburn Market in Smithfield Square, Lisburn.
It was proposed by Alderman A G Ewart, seconded by Alderman W J Dillon, and agreed to recommend that the revised bye-laws in respect of Lisburn Market be agreed.
6.2.16 Fairtrade City Status: Update and Invitation to Celebration Event, 19 June 2017
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members that for the past year the Council had been working towards achieving Fairtrade City status with a series of initiatives delivered to date. In May 2017 the Council had received confirmation that their application to the overall initiative had been successful and the Council area had been awarded Fairtrade City status.
It was noted that the above initiative had been launched recently at a successful promotional event as part of the Council’s showcase event at Balmoral Show.
The Head of Economic Development reported that on the back of this success, Northern Ireland had now become a Fairtrade devolved region after achieving its criteria and main targets of having all its five cities and six of its 11 councils attaining Fairtrade status to include their respective towns. The remaining councils were currently working towards the Fairtrade status.
To celebrate this accolade of achievement the official declaration will be made on Monday 19 June 2017 at 6.00 pm in the Great Hall, Parliament Buildings, Stormont. An invitation to the event has been received from Steven Agnew MLA – Chairperson, All Party Group on Fairtrade who are hosting the event at Stormont.
It was proposed by Alderman A G Ewart, seconded by Alderman W J Dillon, and agreed to recommend that given the success of the Council’s achievement the Chairman and /or Vice-Chairman or their nominee(s) be nominated to attend the Northern Ireland Fairtrade event on 19 June 2017 at 6.00 pm in the Great Hall, Parliament Buildings, Stormont.
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DC 07/06/2017 Items for Noting
6.2.17 Lisburn City Centre Stakeholder Meeting
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members that Lisburn City Centre Stakeholder meetings had been taking place on a quarterly basis.
A report on the most recent meeting that took place in March 2017 had been circulated to the Committee, which had been well-attended with positive feedback received. It was noted that the next meeting was due to take place on Thursday, 29th June 2017 in The Glasshouse commercial premises, Lisburn Square.
It was agreed to note the report on the April Lisburn City Centre Stakeholder meeting and also the date of the next meeting of Thursday, 29th June 2017.
6.2.18 Commencement of the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016
Members were advised that the Rural Needs Act had become operational for councils and government departments on 1 June 2017. A copy of the Act had been circulated to the Committee.
The Head of Economic Development outlined that the Rural Needs Act placed a duty on public authorities, including councils, to have due regard to rural needs when developing, adopting, implementing or revising policies, strategies and plans and when designing and delivering public services.
It was noted that in order to assist public authorities to meet the requirements of the legislation, the Department of Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs (DAERA) had developed guidance notes, a Rural Needs Impact Assessment template and an annual monitoring template, copies of each having been circulated to Members. It was also noted that a copy of a ‘Rural Proofing’ e-learning training package was available from the Rural Development Council at no cost.
The Head of Economic Development stated that it was expected that council officers would use the aforementioned materials to embed the obligations of the Rural Needs Act across departments.
It was agreed that the report on the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 be noted.
6.2.19 Hillsborough Tourism Master Plan
The Head of Economic Development advised that the Hillsborough Tourism Master Plan had been published in November 2015, and as such the Tourism section of the Council had been progressing the actions listed in the Action Plan.
The Head of Economic Development reported that the following initiatives were under development currently:
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DC 07/06/2017 6.2.19 Hillsborough Tourism Master Plan (Cont’d)
• Planning to procure a new website and branding for Historic Hillsborough with stakeholders, • Staging three Hillsborough Farmers’ Markets on the last Saturday in June, July and August 2017, • Working to potentially stage a Hillsborough Literary Festival in summer 2018, • Plan to go out with an events tender to support 2-3 new events in Hillsborough Village, such as Hamilton Harty event, Hillsborough Food Trail developed, and a new themed family event.
It was agreed that the report on the Hillsborough Tourism Master Plan be noted.
6.2.20 Hillsborough Steering Group Committee
The Committee had been furnished with and noted the content of the minutes of the most recent Steering Committee meeting which took place on 28 February 2017.
6.2.21 Budget Report – Economic Development
The Committee had been furnished with and noted the content of the summary Budget Report for Economic Development for the year to 31 March 2018 as at 30 April 2017.
Verbal Matter
6.2.22 Civic Visit to Berrien County, Georgia, USA 31 May – 2 June 2017
The Head of Economic Development reported on the successful civic visit by the Council to Berrien County, Georgia, USA, which had been attended by the Chairman of the Committee, Councillor U Mackin, along with The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor B Bloomfield, Alderman W J Dillon, and the Economic Development Manager, Ms Hazel King. The purpose of the civic visit had been to further develop proposals for developing a strategic partnership between the two regions, to promote both civic and economic linkages, and with the aim of facilitating a dedicated trade mission with up to 6 local businesses, to Berrien County and the wider Georgia market in the Autumn 2017.
Alderman W J Dillon expressed thanks to the Chairman for having led the Council delegation throughout the civic visit to Berrien County and also conveyed thanks and appreciation to the excellent efforts of the Economic Development Manager, Ms Hazel King, and her counterpart in Berrien Chamber of Commerce & Development Authority, Ms Crissy Stacey, which had resulted in a highly successful and memorable visit.
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DC 07/06/2017 7. Any Other Business
7.1 Last Meeting of the Development Committee The Chairman, Councillor U Mackin
The Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, having indicated that this was the last meeting as Chairman of the Development Committee thanked Members for their efforts and support throughout the year. The Chairman acknowledged that there had been a number of difficult decisions to be made during his term of office. He also referred to a number of major projects that were on-going in the Lisburn & Castlereagh Council area, and stated that it was important that the new Committee when appointed later this month would continue to take these projects forward.
The Chairman concluded by thanking Members for their indulgence throughout the year and stated that it had been a privilege to be in this position.
Alderman W J Dillon commended Councillor U Mackin on the manner in which he had carried out his duties as chairman of the Development Committee.
Councillors A Givan and A Grehan wished to be associated with the comments of Alderman W J Dillon.
Councillor A Givan acknowledged the professionalism of the officers and staff in the various units that reported to the Development Committee.
The Chairman, Councillor U Mackin, expressed thanks to the Lead Head of Planning & Building Control and the Head of Economic Development and their respective teams for their efforts during the year.
The Head of Economic Development reciprocated the thanks of the Chairman.
Alderman D Drysdale, on behalf of the Committee, wished the Director of Service Transformation best wishes in his new post within the Council.
There being no further business for consideration the meeting terminated at 9.28 pm.
______Mayor/Chairman
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(S) DC 24.07.2017 LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the proceedings of a Special Meeting of the Development Committee of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council held in the Island Civic Centre, Lisburn, BT27 4RL on Monday 24th July 2017 at 5.37 pm
PRESENT: Alderman A Ewart MBE (Chairman)
The Right Worshipful The Mayor Councillor T Morrow
Deputy Mayor Councillor H Legge
Aldermen J Dillon MBE and D Drysdale
Councillors S Carson, A Ewing, J Gallen, A Givan, U Mackin and T Mitchell
OTHER MEMBERS: Councillors N Anderson, O Gawith, J Gray MBE and L Poots
IN ATTENDANCE: Director of Service Transformation Tourism Development Manager Member Services Officer
Commencement of Meeting
The Chairman, Alderman A G Ewart MBE, welcomed Members to the Special Meeting of the Development Committee and proceeded to outline the evacuation procedures in the case of an emergency.
The Chairman asked that any Member entering or leaving the Meeting alert him accordingly so that the Member Services Officer might accurately reflect arrival and departure times in the minutes.
1. Apologies
Apologies for non-attendance were accepted and recorded on behalf of Aldermen W A Leathem and S Martin; Councillor A Grehan and the Head of Economic Development.
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(S) DC 24.07.2017 2. Declarations of Interest
The Chairman invited Members to declare any Conflicts of Interest they might have in relation to the business of the Meeting and reminded them of the requirement that they complete Declaration of Interest forms in this regard, which had been provided at the Meeting. No declarations of interest were made.
3. Confidential Report of Head of Economic Development
The report of the Head of Economic Development was confidential for reason of information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
It was agreed that the confidential report of the Head of Economic Development be considered “in Committee”, in the absence of members of the press and public being present.
In the absence of the Head of Economic Development, his report was presented by the Director of Service Transformation.
It was agreed that the confidential report and recommendations of the Head of Economic Development be adopted, subject to any decisions recorded below and other items noted:-
3.1 Hillsborough Forest Park
3.1.1 Economic Appraisal/Outline Business Case
Further to the Meeting of the Council held on the 27th June 2017, Members had been provided with a copy of the Economic Appraisal and Outline Business Case in regard to the investment in a strategic tourism project within Hillsborough Forest Park. Additional information on this matter was distributed at the Meeting and retained by the Officers at its conclusion.
The Committee was reminded that - at its Meeting held on the 27th June 2017 - the Council had delegated authority to the Committee to progress this matter.
The Director explained the main issues under discussion and how the project might progress.
During discussion of this item of business, the following Members entered the Meeting:-
Councillors S Carson and A Givan at 5.45 pm. Councillor L Poots at 5.50 pm. Councillor N Anderson at 5.55 pm.
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(S) DC 24.07.2017 3.1 Hillsborough Forest Park (Continued)
3.1.1 Economic Appraisal/Outline Business Case (Continued)
It was proposed by Councillor U Mackin, seconded by Councillor A P Ewing and agreed to recommend that:-
• the Economic Appraisal and Outline Business Case in regard to the investment in a strategic tourism project within Hillsborough Forest Park be noted;
• subject to agreeing a way forward with the Forest Service on both the Lease and the Memorandum of Understanding, full design (RIBA Stage 3) be proceeded with;
• on completion of the design, a full business case be prepared and presented to the Leisure and Community Development Committee.
3.1.2 Forest Service - Memorandum of Understanding
The Director explained the main issues under discussion with the Forest Service in relation to the Memorandum of Understanding and subsequent documentation relating to a Trails Licence, Works Licence and Lease.
It was agreed to recommend that:-
• the Head of Service’s report in relation to the above be noted;
• subject to meeting favorable terms with the Forest Service in relation to the Lease, Memorandum of Understanding and Licences, Officers progress with the design appointment.
3.1.3 Project Management Update
It was agreed to recommend that the undernoted documents in draft form be noted:-
• Programme Risk Register • Proposed Governance Structure • Change Log/Change Process Flow Diagram • Issues Log
The Director pointed out that each of the above documents was a “living” document and as such would be updated on a regular basis as the Forest Park Programme progressed.
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(S) DC 24.07.2017
3.2 Lisburn City Centre Masterplan Financial Appraisal
Further to the Meeting of the Council held on the 27th June 2017, an updated Financial Appraisal for the Review of the Lisburn City Centre Masterplan had been provided to Members. The Director explained the main issues of the Masterplan.
It was proposed by Councillor A Givan, seconded by Councillor T Mitchell and agreed to recommend that:-
• the updated Financial Appraisal for the Review of the Lisburn City Centre Masterplan be noted;
• the appointment of the contractor to refresh the Masterplan and associated services be approved.
There being no further business, the Special Meeting concluded at 6.25 pm.
______Mayor/Chairman
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LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF THE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE – 6 SEPTEMBER 2017
REPORT BY MR DONAL ROGAN, DIRECTOR OF SERVICE TRANSFORMATION
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND
The purpose of this report is to set out for Members’ consideration a number of recommendations specifically relating to the operation of the Council.
The following decisions are required:
1. To consider the Report by the Principal Planning Officer (LDP) 2. To consider the Report by the Community Planning Manager 3. To consider the Report by the Head of Economic Development
ITEMS FOR DECISION
1. REPORT BY MS LOIS JACKSON, PRINCIPAL PLANNING OFFICER (LDP)
Attached at APPENDIX 1 is a report from the Principal Planning Officer (LDP) in respect of items under her remit.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee considers the items in the Report by the Principal Planning Officer (LDP) and agrees the recommendations therein.
2. REPORT BY MRS CATHARINE McWHIRTER, COMMUNITY PLANNING MANAGER
Attached at APPENDIX 2 is a report from the Community Planning Manager in respect of items under her remit.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee considers the items in the Report by the Community Planning Manager and agrees the recommendations therein.
3. REPORT BY MR PAUL McCORMICK, HEAD OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Attached at APPENDIX 3 is a report from the Head of Economic Development in respect of items under his remit.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee considers the items in the Report by the Head of Development and agrees the recommendations therein.
DONAL ROGAN DIRECTOR OF SERVICE TRANSFORMATION 30 August 2017 APPENDIX 1
LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF THE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE – 6 SEPTEMBER 2017
REPORT BY MS LOIS JACKSON, PRINCIPAL PLANNING OFFICER (LDP)
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND
The purpose of this report is to set out for Members’ information relating to Local Development Plan.
The following decisions are required:
1. To consider update on LDP Work Programme: Draft Plan Strategy
• To decide whether Members wish to be involved in the Spatial Working Group to be set up with neighbouring Councils Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, and Newry, Mourne and Down Borough Council.
2. To note information regarding guidance documents published by NIEA relating to LDP
ITEMS FOR DECISION
1. UPDATE ON LDP WORK PROGRAMME: DRAFT PLAN STRATEGY
Attached at APPENDIX 1 LDP is a report to inform and update Members of the key stages in the work programme following publication of the Preferred Options Paper and next steps in preparing the local Development Plan draft Plan Strategy. Members are asked to note the Special Development Committee to discuss the feedback from the public consultation on the Preferred Options Paper scheduled for 25th September 2017. I would also draw your attention to a particular area within the report.
• Spatial Working Group LDP with Neighbouring Councils
In order to fully meet the tests of soundness, (regarding taking account of neighbouring Councils plans, policies and strategies) and following the setting up of the Spatial Working Group with the neighbouring Councils of Belfast, Ards and North Down, and Antrim and Newtownabbey) a spatial working group with the neighbouring Councils of Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council and Newry, Mourne and Down Borough Council will be required. Members are asked to decide if they wish to participate in this Spatial Working Group or allow it to be officer led only.
Recommendation
• It is recommended that Members note the Special Development Committee on 25 September 2017 and the contents of the Work programme. • It is recommended that the Committee decides whether they wish to participate on the second Spatial Working Group and decide delegates, or allow this group to be officer led.
ITEM FOR NOTING
2. GUIDANCE PUBLISHED BY NIEA RELATING TO LDP
To aid with the preparation of sound local development plans the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) within the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Northern Ireland has recently published guidance documents which are all available on the DAERA website at
https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/development-plan-evidence-guide- documents
The documents recently published are:
• Green Infrastructure and Planning • Methodology for Designating Local Landscape Policy Areas (LLPA) • Environmental Evidence and Local Information for Local Development Plans
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee note this information,
LOIS JACKSON PRINCIPAL PLANNING OFFICER (LDP) 30 August 2017 APPENDIX 1 LDP
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council
Council/Committee Development Committee
Date of Meeting 6 September 2017
Responsible Officer Lois Jackson Principal Planning Officer
Date of Report 17 August 2017
File Reference
Legislation
Subject Update on LDP Work Programme: draft Plan Strategy Attachments Appendix A: Plan Strategy Work Programme - Plan Strategy Appendix B: Invite to Metropolitan Spatial Working Group
Purpose of the Report
1. The purpose of this report is to inform and update Members of the key stages in the work programme following publication of the Preferred Options Paper and next steps in preparing the Local Development Plan draft Plan Strategy.
Background
2. The next stage of the Local Development Plan process will be the preparation of the draft Plan Strategy. The draft Plan Strategy will contain the strategic vision and objectives for the Plan area, strategic policies and allocations for growth such as housing and employment including the settlement hierarchy. The draft Plan Strategy will be subject to public consultation to allow representations and counter representations before submission to the Department prior to Independent Examination.
3. There are a number of key areas of work that will be required in terms of the preparation of the draft Plan Strategy up to its publication. These are summarised below and further updates will be presented to Members in subsequent Local Development Plan Workshops/Papers. (See Appendix A: Plan Strategy Work Programme – Plan Strategy).
Key Issues
A) Public Consultation Report: 4. In line with the Council’s published Statement of Community Involvement, a Public Consultation Report will be presented to Members following the end of the consultation on the Preferred Options Paper (which closed on 25 May 2017).
5. It is suggested that in order to explain fully to Members the outcome of the Public Consultation Report that a Special Development Committee (open to all Members) is held on Monday 25 September 2017.
6. The Public Consultation Report will outline the feedback received on the Preferred Options from stakeholder/statutory consultees including neighbouring councils, non-statutory consultees, section 75 groups, community/voluntary groups and members of the public. The public consultation responses will be taken into account in moving forward to the next stage of the draft Plan Strategy.
7. Members’ comments on the Public Consultation Report will be recorded and also taken into account in the formulation of the draft Plan Strategy.
8. In discussions with both the Department for Infrastructure and the Planning Appeals Commission, the Timetable for the Local Development Plan Unit will be amended to reflect the length of time taken from preparation of the draft Plan Strategy through to adoption of the Plan Strategy. This will be presented to Members at a further Committee.
B) Review and Development of Planning Policy: 9. As part of the preparation of the Preferred Options Paper, current operational planning policy as set out in the Department’s Planning Policy Statements, the Strategic Planning Policy Statement for NI (SPPS) and a Planning Strategy for Rural Northern Ireland was reviewed. It was concluded that the broad thrust and direction of the majority of planning policies were acceptable to the Council.
10. Members should however note that on adoption of the Plan Strategy, the Department’s Planning Policy Statements (PPSs) will no longer apply. Therefore new planning policy will need to be drafted for inclusion within the draft Plan Strategy. It is important for Elected Members to be fully engaged in the drafting and preparation of new planning policy.
11. Workshops with Members are therefore proposed (dates to be arranged) to seek views on the current planning policies before drafting on new policy commences.
12. Specialist Input for draft Plan Strategy: A number of specialist studies have been commissioned to assist in the ‘soundness’ of the draft Plan Strategy, particularly around sensitive areas such as retailing (through a retailing study); the need and allocation of housing and employment land (through an Urban Capacity Study); and office development (through an office study). The management of these specialist areas and outputs will be critical to developing policies for the Plan Strategy. Feedback on these reports will be shared with Members.
C) Policy Drafting for the Plan Strategy: 13. Policy drafting will commence following consideration of Members’ feedback on planning policy and any comments relating to policy as a result of the Preferred Options consultation:
a. The Stakeholder Group will be consulted once new policy is drafted, in relation to emerging planning policy through the Local Development Plan which includes the main statutory and non-statutory consultees. Officers will also liaise directly with key statutory consultees independently in the preparation of policy if required.
b. Draft policies will be subjected to sustainability assessment by the SES team at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council in terms of Sustainability Appraisal as well as Strategic Environmental Assessment. The draft Plan Strategy will also be subject to Equality Assessment and Rural Proofing.
c. Draft policies will be presented to Members following discussion with statutory consultees for agreement.
d. Updating the Evidence Base for draft Plan Strategy - as part of the preparation of the Plan Strategy, the LDP Unit will review and update its current evidence base as necessary. Any new documents/reports will be brought forward to Members for consideration as appropriate.
D) Presenting the final draft Plan Strategy & SA Report to Members: 14. The final draft Plan Strategy will be brought forward to Members of the full Council for agreement prior to public consultation.
15. Further workshops will be held with Members if required before the finalisation of the draft Plan Strategy prior to public consultation.
Spatial Working Groups
16. As discussed with Members in June 2017, arrangements are now in place for a Metropolitan Area Spatial Working Group with 3 neighbouring Councils to discuss issues of mutual interest, such as housing, retailing, transportation and infrastructure. (Refer to invite letter from Suzanne Wylie Chief Executive of Belfast City Council to Dr Theresa Donaldson Chief Executive LCCC at Appendix B). The first meeting of this working group is scheduled for Monday 4th September 2017 at 12 noon at Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council offices. An update will be provided to Members following this meeting.
17. Members are advised that in order to fully comply with the regulations regarding achieving ‘soundness’ of the LDP, that an equivalent spatial working group will be required with the other two neighbouring Councils i.e. • Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council; and • Newry, Mourne and Down Borough Council
18. A decision is required from Members as to whether they wish to be represented on this spatial working group, or whether they would prefer for it to be officer-led. The first meeting will be arranged after the initial meeting with Belfast, Ards and North Down and Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council.
The Transport Plan for draft Plan Strategy
19. Transport NI are crucial to the delivery of an integrated Transport Plan alongside the Plan Strategy.
20. The Department for Infrastructure, in its response to the Preferred Options Paper, state under para 12.1 that: “The Department would wish to reiterate that it is intended that the LDP process and Local Transport Plan process be integrated and influence each other, facilitated by close working between the Department and the Council”.
21. The Council met with Transport NI (7 August 2017) in relation to this integrated work programme to ensure it aligns with the LDP. DfI were unable to supply details on their work programme, but the importance of this was emphasized as the Transport Plan is within their statutory remit. It is hoped that this will be supplied in advance of the next meeting (to be arranged for end of October). The Permanent Secretary of the Department for Infrastructure (Peter May) has also issued a meeting invite to Chief Executives to outline how joint working between his Department and all 11 Councils can be achieved. A meeting has been arranged for 17th October 2017, John McGrath and Tom Reid from DfI will attend.
22. Members should also note that in DfI’s response to the public consultation on the Preferred Options Paper that they commented “the Department would expect to assess the combined impact of Blaris land development and Knockmore Link Road against the target of maximising use of public transport and ‘no net detriment’ to traffic congestion on the road network.”
Recommendation
23. It is recommended that Members note:-
(a) the Special Development Committee on 25 September 2017; and (b) the contents of the Work programme.
It is recommended that Members decide:-
(c) To participate in the spatial working group between the neighbouring Councils of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, and Newry, Mourne and Down Borough Council or delegate this to officers.
Appendix A: Plan Strategy Work Programme
1 Consider responses to POP 2nd / 3rd Qtr 2017 2 Prepare Public Consultation Report & present to Members 3rd Qtr 2017 3 Review & Development of Planning Policy 4th Qtr 2017 4 Policy Drafting for the Plan Strategy 4th Qtr 2017 / 1st Qtr 2018 Preparing 5 SA: Assessment of Alternatives of Draft Plan Strategy & SA Objectives 4th Qtr 2017 / 1st Qtr 2018 for 6 Present Draft Plan Strategy & SA Report to Members for approval 1st Qtr 2018 Publication 7 Present Transport Plan to Members 1st Qtr 2018 8 Consult with Consultation bodies pre-publication 1st / 2nd Qtr 2018 9 Preparation for publication (printing / editing) 2nd Qtr 2018 10 Launch, publish and make Draft Plan Strategy available for inspection 2nd Qtr 2018 11 Send Draft Plan Strategy & supporting documents to Consultation bodies 2nd Qtr 2018 12 Give notice in Belfast Gazette & local press detailing places & times for inspection of PS 2nd Qtr 2018 13 Publish Draft Plan Strategy & supporting documents on Council’s website 2nd Qtr 2018 14 Hold public meetings in appropriate locations across the Council area 3rd Qtr 2018 15 Invite local community groups & S75 groups to public events 3rd Qtr 2018 16 Make copy of representations available for inspection 3rd Qtr 2018 17 Publish representations on Council’s website 3rd Qtr 2018 Preparing 18 Give notice in Belfast Gazette & local press detailing places & times for inspection of reps 3rd Qtr 2018 for 19 Notify consultation bodies that reps available for inspection 3rd Qtr 2018 Independent 20 Notify any person who has made a rep of these matters 3rd Qtr 2018 Examination 21 Make copy of counter-reps available for inspection 4th Qtr 2018 22 Publish counter-reps on website 4th Qtr 2018 23 Consider reps & counter-reps & report to Members 1st Qtr 2019 24 Submit PS & SA Report & assoc docs as per Part 5 Regulation 20 to Dept for IE 2nd Qtr 2019 25 Make Plan Strategy & supporting docs available for inspection 2nd Qtr 2019 26 Notify consultation bodies of Plan Strategy being available 2nd Qtr 2019 27 Notify any person who has made a rep of these matters 2nd Qtr 2019 28 Give notice in Belfast Gazette & local press that docs have been submitted to Dept. 2nd Qtr 2019 29 Publish on Council’s website that the docs have been submitted to Dept. 2nd Qtr 2019 30 Notify consultation bodies 4 weeks before IE 2nd Qtr 2019 Independent 31 Give notice in Belfast Gazette & local press of time & place of IE & identity of Examiner 2nd Qtr 2019 Examination 32 Publish time & place of IE & identity of Examiner on Council’s website 2nd Qtr 2019 33 Notify any person who has made a representation of these matters 2nd Qtr 2019 34 Independent Examination 2nd Qtr 2019 35 Central Govt. considers & directs Council to adopt 2nd Qtr 2020 36 Council adopts PS 2nd Qtr 2020 Adoption 37 Make PS & associated docs available for inspection 2nd Qtr 2020 38 Publish PS & associated docs as per Part 5 Reg 24(3a) on the Council’s website 2nd Qtr 2020 39 Give notice in the Belfast Gazette & local press that PS is available for inspection 2nd Qtr 2020 Send to the Dept a copy of each doc as per Part 5 Reg 24(3a) 2nd Qtr 2020
Appendix B: Metropolitan Spatial Working Group
APPENDIX 2
LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF THE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE – 6 SEPTEMBER 2017
REPORT BY MRS CATHARINE McWHIRTER, COMMUNITY PLANNING MANAGER
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND
The purpose of this report is to set out for Members’ consideration a number of recommendations specifically relating to the Community Plan.
The following decisions are required:
1. To consider information regarding the development of a Youth Council 2. To consider information regarding the Age Friendly Alliance 3. To note the response to DAERA’s consultation on Proposed Changes to Area Based Schemes : Review of Decisions Process 4. To note information regarding a proposed literature festival 5. To note information regarding the draft workplan for the action planning process with regard to the Community Plan
ITEMS FOR DECISION
1. YOUTH COUNCIL
Over the last year the Council (Community Planning, PCSP, Peace IV, Good Relations and Community Services) has been working with the Education Authority and the PSNI to develop a Youth Council. A contract has been agreed by all the agencies in the partnership and funding has been allocated to the project from EANI, PSNI, PCSP, Good Relations and Peace IV. Recruitment to the Youth Council is due to begin in early autumn which will be handled by EANI.
EANI has acknowledged that this is the first time in Northern Ireland that this type of partnership approach to developing a youth council, by pooling resources and skills, has been piloted, and given the success so far it could be replicated in other Council areas.
It is anticipated that the Youth Council will be in place by November 2017 at which time there is to be a celebratory launch in the Council Chamber, to which all Members will be invited, and which will be widely promoted as a showcase project for Lisburn and Castlereagh.
Members are asked to consider the use of the Chamber and the hosting of the launch of the Youth Council in November.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Members consider the use of the Chamber and the hosting of the launch of the Youth Council in November.
2. AGE FRIENDLY ALLIANCE Members will recall that the Council jointly hosted an Age Friendly Conference last November to promote the World Health Organisation’s Age Friendly Framework. It was a partnership between Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Ards and North Down Borough Council, the SEHSCT and the PHA. At the Conference the PHA announced that it would fund an Age Friendly Co-ordinator’s post to work on age friendly strategies for both Council areas and an officer has now been appointed and has started work on this process. It is a fixed term post for two years. The development of the strategy will take about two years and will involve the Members as well as community groups and interested parties representing older people and their needs. International Day of Older People is on 1 October and it may be an opportunity to have a photo call and press release to promote the ‘signing of the Charter’ to show the Council’s commitment to the process. Members are asked to consider this and suggest the Chair of Development Committee and the Chair of the Strategic Community Planning Partnership attend the photo call. One of the next stages will be to consider governance structures for the age friendly project and how they will fit into the existing community planning structures. A further paper will be brought to Development Committee in due course. Recommendation
It is recommended that the Members consider a photo call and press release to promote its commitment to the Age Friendly process.
ITEMS FOR NOTING
3. DAERA REVIEW OF DECISIONS CONSULTATION
The purpose of this report is to inform Members that a response has been submitted to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to the consultation on proposed changes to Area Based Schemes: Review of Decisions Process. In particular, it is proposed to replace the current procedure with a process which better meets the needs of farmers and which brings about a timely outcome of the Decision they have asked the Department to review.
The consultation response is attached at APPENDIX 1 CP. Recommendation
Members are recommended to note the consultation response.
4. LITERATURE FESTIVAL A request has been received from Tom Le Seelleur (English Language Lecturer, SERC Lisburn Campus) to present to the Council a proposal to develop and run the Lisburn Young People’s Literature Festival 2018, Extensive Reading for Pleasure International Conference 2018, Lisburn Year of Reading 2017-2018 and UNESCO City of Literature Application. Mr Le Seelleur has been in touch with a wide range of agencies and organisations to promote his proposal and has had some success in encouraging representatives from the Arts Council and the Books Trust, for example, to sit on a steering group to develop his proposal further. Mr Le Seelleur has met the Council’s Tourism Officers to discuss the possibility of a small grant being awarded, recognising that if the Council were to lend any greater support to this proposal he would be required to provide considerably more information. He has therefore agreed to prepare a short proposal outlining his ambitions and exactly what support he would like from the Council. A report will be brought back to Development Committee in due course. Recommendation
Members are recommended to note the information on the Literature Festival.
5. ACTION PLANNING Members will recall that the Community Plan was launched on 18 May and the next phase is to develop the Action Plan which will detail how the Council, the partner agencies and the community sector will achieve the outcomes identified in the Community Plan. It is proposed that the action planning will be arranged into the five themes in the Community Plan, namely Children and Young People, The Economy, Health and Well-being, Where We Live and Our Community. Facilitated workshops will be held to generate the discussions and Members will be instrumental to these sessions. The work of the thematic working groups will be supplemented with locality and place shaping plans focussing on the areas which are most in need. A further report will be brought to Development Committee in due course with the aim of having a draft action plan for December.
A draft workplan for the action planning process is attached at APPENDIX 2 CP.
Recommendation
Members are recommended to note the information on action planning.
CATHARINE McWHIRTER COMMUNITY PLANNING MANAGER 30 August 2017 Appendix 1 CP
CONSULTATION ON PROPOSED CHANGES TO
DAERA AREA BASED SCHEMES REVIEW OF DECISIONS PROCESS 2017 Response Form Name
Company / Organisation Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council Name
Please describe your Local government Company / Organisation type
Please tick Please indicate your Under the name / company given: I preference for publication of consent to publication of all information in
my response. your response Anonymously: I consent to publication of
all information in my response.
Question 1: Do you think there are other factors that you consider should be included? If so , what are they?
Response Please tick
Yes
No
If yes, please state below:
Another feature should be added: ‘Detailed and accurate feedback of outcome and how outcome was derived.’
Question 2 - Do you agree that a single stage Review of Decisions process, outlined in Fig 1, will provide applicants with a faster review of the Department’s decision? If not, please give your reasons.
Response Please tick
Yes
No
If No, please state below:
It is apparent from the evidence that the two stage process was resource intensive and that it didn’t change the outcome. Experience of the Rural Development Programme has shown that applicants are more concerned about why they have been unsuccessful than who takes the decision. Therefore it is important to have good communication and transparency.
Question 3 – Do you agree that the Department should charge a nominal fee to submit an application for a Review of Decision? If not, please give your reasons.
Response Please tick
Yes
No
If No, please state below:
The Council considers that there should be no fee for the Review. As it is proposed to remove the need for an independent panel the resource and cost implication is also reduced. The important issue is to have transparent and timely feedback on the outcome.
Question 4 - Do you believe that 42 days is sufficient time for applicants to submit their application for a Review of Decision. If not, please tell us what the maximum number of days should be and give your reason.
Response Please tick
Yes
No
If No, please tell us how long applicants should be given to apply for a review of their decision and why:
Question 5 – Do you agree that 21 days from the Case Officer requesting it, is sufficient time, to provide supporting evidence,? If not, please tell us the period you would suggest is appropriate and give your reason.
Response Please tick
I agree
I do not agree
If you do not agree, how long do you feel would be sufficient? Please state your reasons below:
Question 6. – Do you consider 3 months is a reasonable timeframe to receive a final decision within? If not, please tell us what you think would be a reasonable timeframe and give your reasons.
Response Please tick
Yes
No
If No, please indicate the timeframe most appropriate and state your reasons below:
The Council understands that there is a resource issue in DAERA, but would suggest the timeframe for a final decision should be 42 days.
Thank you for taking the time to complete these questions.
APPENDIX 2 CP
Draft Action Planning Work Plan August 2017 – March 2018 Updated August 2017 This Work Plan has been prepared to reflect the vision and mission of Lisburn and Castlereagh Community Planning Partnership as set out in the Community Plan 2017/2032. It also provides a framework within which the progress of the action planning process may be measured.
Stage Key Task Date Update Responsibility
Distribute action plan Email templates to Directors August 2017 Complete. CPM templates Awaiting responses Email to partner agencies September 2017
Engage facilitator Agree agenda September 2017 DST Brief facilitator CPM Agree terms
Analyse information Collate information CPM from templates Present in accessible formats
Themed workshop 1 Set dates for five workshops September 2017 Members Invite targeted audience Directors Book rooms Council Officers Book catering Partners Community Reps Business Reps
Analyse information Write up findings CPM from Workshop 1 Add updated statistics Statistician
Themed workshop 2 Set dates for five workshops October 2017 Members Present information back to targeted Directors participants Council Officers Book rooms Partners Book catering Community Reps Business Reps
Strategic Community Set dates for meetings September 2017? Chief Executive Planning Partnership Book rooms October 2017 DST Book catering Partners Agree agendas Issue invitations and papers
Prepare draft Action Collate information from workshops DST Plan CPM
Development Present update report to monthly Committee On-going DST Committee Present draft Action Plan to December 6 December 2107 CPM Committee for noting and comment
Participation and Arrange events January/February CPM Engagement 2017
Communication Promote action plan process On-going MCU Media campaign Promote engagement events
Member Involvement The Director will provide regular updates to the Development Committee for comment and approval. Four Members have been nominated by D’Hondt to sit on the Strategic Partnership. This includes two DUP, one UUP and one APNI. Members will have an important role to play at the Thematic or Working Groups.
APPENDIX 3
LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF THE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE – 6 SEPTEMBER 2017
REPORT BY MR PAUL McCORMICK, HEAD OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND
The purpose of this report is to set out for Members’ consideration a number of recommendations specifically relating to the operation of the Council.
The following decisions are required:
1. To agree attendance at a meeting with the Department for the Economy, to discuss financial support for hotel projects. 2. To agree to progress discussions with DAERA on the application process to discuss concept ideas for Hillsborough Forest and Lagan Canal Trust initiatives. 3. To agree the Preliminary Expenditure Application for delivery of the City Centre Evaluation Framework and to the progression of a relevant Financial Appraisal. 4. To agree the Preliminary Expenditure Application for Discover Waterways Lisburn and to the progression of a relevant Financial Appraisal. 5. To agree to the delivery of initiatives outlined in the Strategic Revitalisation Project, to the Council contribution of £30,000, but should DFC’s response be delayed further, to agree to the delivery of the Shopfront Improvement Scheme on a lesser scale using the Council’s contribution of £30,000. 6. To agree to the appointment of Ove Arup + Partners to deliver a review of the Lisburn City Centre Masterplan and that Officers seek to secure the offer of funding of up to 50% from the Department for Communities. 7. To agree attendance at the CIPR Pride Gala Awards Dinner & Ceremony on 13th October 2017. 8. To consider the request from Transport NI for comment on their proposal to provide an accessible/disabled parking bay opposite 49 Seymour Street, Lisburn. 9. To nominate representatives from the Council to attend the World Travel Market, London, 6th 8th November 2017. 10. To nominate representatives from the Council to attend Holiday World Dublin on Friday 26 January 2018. 11. To agree the delivery of the next phase of the Business Mentoring Programme. 12. To agree to coordinate and fund a revised Made in Lisburn and Castlereagh event in 2018, with a total Council contribution of £15,000. 13. To agree to fund a feasibility study to assess potential for dedicated business incubation assistance across the Council area at a maximum cost of up to £20,000. 14. To note the planned approach to investment promotion at MIPIM, London 2017 and to recommend that the Chair and Vice Chair or their nominees attend with an appropriate officer. 15. To agree to the request from NIE to use the Council’s site at 46C Castle Street during works in Lisburn City Centre. 16. To agree the Hillsborough Projects Report and programme recommendations. 17. To agree to support a similar initiative to 2017 for the 2018 Balmoral Show, with a budget of £35,000 to be allocated from the City Promotion budget. To note the City of Lisburn Pipe Band Championships Evaluation and to consider making a bid to stage the event again in 2018. 18. To agree attendance at the Lisburn Chamber of Commerce Business BBQ 19. To note that LCCC submitted an Expression of Interest as the leading Council in a collaborative bid on behalf of Belfast City Council and Armagh & Banbridge Borough Councils, for suitable sites to be considered as one of the new Heathrow off-site logistics hubs. And to note that the list of potential sites will be published in the Autumn 2017 with bidders invited to submit a further detailed bit at this stage. 20. To note the contents of the NIBSUP update report. 21. To note the details of the NILGA event to be held on Wednesday 27th September 2017 at Craigavon Civic Centre 22. To note the update on Erasmus + 23. To note the two Business Networking schedules for 2017/18 and that there is provision in the 2017/18 Economic Development budget for this expenditure. 24. To note the Economic Development budget report for the year to 31st March 2018 as at 30th April 2017.
ITEMS FOR DECISION
1. HOTEL MORATORIUM ON GRANT AID
Members will recall that the Council agreed in May 2017 that the Chief Executive would write to the Chief Executive of Invest NI to discuss the negative effect on potential Hotel project investment, which results from the Moratorium on Hotel grant aid for projects within a 10 mile radius of Belfast City Centre.
Recent correspondence in this regard is attached at APPENDIX 1(a) ED and APPENDIX 1(b) ED for Members’ information.
Members should note that the Council has been building an evidence base to support its position regarding the removal of the moratorium on grant aid. This most recently featured representations made to the former Chairman Councillor Mackin from a local business and the Council’s own work connected to the feasibility and viability studies for the city centre hotel project which have been produced on the Council’s behalf by Michael Williamson of ASM.
The Chief Executive has raised the matter personally with the Permanent Secretary of the Department for the Economy, the Chief Executive of Tourism NI, and the Chief Executive of Invest NI.
The letter from Alastair Hamilton highlights contacts in the Department for the Economy for further discussion, and an appropriate meeting has been requested by officers.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Development Committee attends the meeting with senior Council officers.
2. CORRESPONDENCE FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ENVIRONMENT AND RURAL AFFAIRS (DAERA) - STRATEGIC RURAL TOURISM FUNDING
Attached at APPENDIX 2 ED is correspondence from Catherine McCallum, Director of Rural Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, which confirms the approval of the Rural Development Programme for Rural Tourism projects through the NI Rural Development Programme. This part of the overall programme is being directly managed and delivered by DAERA. Financial assistance up to £500,000 at an intervention rate of 75% is available.
A meeting with DAERA officials to discuss the application process has been arranged for mid-September to discuss the Council’s concept ideas for both Hillsborough Forest and Lagan Canal Trust initiatives. Members are reminded that the Council had previously planned to submit two funding bids to this programme. One for Discover Waterways Lisburn and the second for the Renewal of Hillsborough Forest.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Council progresses discussions with DAERA on the application process with a view to developing and submitting two funding bids as outlined above.
3. PRELIMINARY EXPENDITURE APPLICATION: LISBURN CITY CENTRE FRAMEWORK
For the past year CARD Group, a market research company, has been producing evidence reports from market research in Lisburn City Centre through on-street surveys, footfall counting, statistical analysis and comparisons with competing destinations. These reports form the baseline of a City Centre Framework that is used to support planning and decision making on initiatives in the City Centre such as events, marketing, business support programmes, planning decisions. It has also been well received by other City Centre stakeholders, particularly traders, who have used the information to support investment decisions and their own marketing activity.
The period of the current contract to deliver this work is nearing conclusion and it is proposed that the Council procures these services for a further three year period.
Attached at APPENDIX 3 ED is the Preliminary Expenditure Application for the delivery of a Lisburn City Centre Evaluation Framework which will monitor the performance of Lisburn City Centre.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee agree the attached Preliminary Expenditure Application for delivery of the City Centre Evaluation Framework and to the progression of a relevant Financial Appraisal.
4. PRELIMINARY EXPENDITURE APPLICATION: DISCOVER WATERWAYS LISBURN – DELIVERY PHASE
At the Council’s Development Committee meeting in June 2015 it was agreed that the Council should appoint an integrated consultant team to take forward the Discover Waterways Lisburn Masterplan to full design and costing. The overall scheme based at Union Locks, Lisburn will deliver a significant regeneration project adjacent to the Lagan Navigation. The proposed project includes the renovation of Navigation House and adjoining stables; renovation of a Lock Keepers cottage as a hospitality facility; re-watering of the canal basin as a watersports facility with associated boat storage and new car parking.
Interest from other funders has been received including the potential for significant contributions from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the NI Rural Development Programme. In order to complete the design process, be in a position to bid for these funds and agree Council contributions, a financial appraisal needs to be developed.
Attached at APPENDIX 4 ED is the Preliminary Expenditure Application for the Discover Waterways Lisburn project. The agreement of this initial preliminary application will enable progression to Financial Appraisal stage.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members agree the attached Preliminary Expenditure Application for Discover Waterways Lisburn and to the progression of a relevant Financial Appraisal.
5. STRATEGIC REVITALISATION PROJECT – UPDATE AND REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONTRIBUTION
Members will be aware that in past years Revitalisation projects, part funded by the Department for Communities (DFC) (formerly DSD), were delivered across the Council area. The project included initiatives to support the commercial areas of Lisburn City Centre, Dundonald, Carryduff and Newtownbreda. The types of projects funded included shop front improvement schemes; events; PR and Marketing campaign; improvements to pedestrian linkages; Pop-Up Shop initiatives; creation of an events space in Moat Park.
Following on from the success of these initiatives an opportunity has become available through DFC to make an application for financial support to deliver a new Strategic Vitality Project across the urban commercial centres of the Council. Attached at APPENDIX 5 ED is an outline of the Revitalisation project which has been submitted to DFC to be considered for £150,000 of grant funding. The overall project is costed at £180,000 and would require a contribution from the Council of £30,000.
DFC should be in a position to advise the Council in late September 2017 if the application has been successful. Members should be aware that, should the DFC response to the application be delayed, the main initiative within the overall project, namely, the Shopfront Improvement Scheme, could still be delivered on a lesser scale just using the Council’s allocation.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee agrees to the delivery of the initiatives as outlined in the Strategic Vitality Project report and to the Council contribution of £30,000 towards the overall cost. However, should the decision making of DFC be delayed further that the Committee agrees to the delivery of the Shopfront Improvement Scheme on a lesser scale using the Council’s contribution of £30,000.
6. CITY CENTRE MASTERPLAN REVIEW: TENDER REPORT
Attached at APPENDIX 6 ED is a tender report in relation to the appointment of an Integrated Consultant Team to deliver a review of the Lisburn City Centre Masterplan.
Members should further note that at a recent director level meeting, the Department for Communities gave a verbal indication that this project could be grant aided up to 50% of costs by the Department.
Members should note that the Committee has been granted delegated authority to deal with this matter.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members agree to the appointment of Ove Arup + Partners to deliver a review of the Lisburn City Centre Masterplan as outlined in the attached tender report. It is further recommended that Officers seek to secure the offer of funding from DfC as outlined above.
7. CIPR PRIDE AWARDS 2017: FINALIST, LISBURN CITY CENTRE GIFT GUIDE
The Chartered Institute of Public Relations hold Regional Awards called the Pride Awards on an annual basis. The applications are open to the PR Industry. Last year the Council worked in partnership with Rumour Mill PR, a local PR and Marketing company to deliver the successful Lisburn City Centre Gift Guide initiative. Rumour Mill PR applied to the category ‘Best Publication’ for the production of the Gift Guide. The application has been successful in being shortlisted as a finalist and Rumour Mill PR have suggested that the Council may want to be represented at the Awards Dinner alongside them.
The Gala Awards Dinner & Ceremony is scheduled to take place on 13 October 2017 at The Culloden Estate & Spa, Belfast. The cost for an Elected Member to attend is £104+VAT plus travel expenses.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee agrees to nominate the Chairman and/or Vice-Chairman of the Committee or their nominees to attend the CIPR Pride Gala Awards Dinner & Ceremony on 13 October 2017 at a cost per Elected Member of £104+VAT plus travel expenses.
8. TNI CONSULTATION – PROVISION OF AN ACCESSIBLE / DISABLED PARKING BAY OPPOSITE 49 SEYMOUR STREET, LISBURN
Attached at APPENDIX 7 ED is correspondence from Transport NI outlining a proposal to provide an accessible/disabled parking bay opposite 49 Seymour Street, Lisburn.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members consider the request for comment on the outlined proposal.
9. ATTENDANCE AT WORLD TRAVEL MARKET, EXCEL, LONDON, 6-8 NOVEMBER 2017
Each November Visit Belfast attends the World Travel Market in London, to promote the Belfast Metropolitan Area as a tourist destination. This year’s World Travel Market, being the largest travel trade exhibition in Europe, will be held on 6 - 8 November 2017 in ExCel, London.
The event offers an opportunity to network and explore current industry trends with over 50,000 senior travel industry professionals, government representatives and international press from 182 countries. Now in its 38th year, the event generates an estimated £2.5 billion of travel industry contracts.
Whilst Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council will be branded within the Belfast Regional Tourism Partnership (Visit Belfast), an opportunity exists for representatives from the Council to witness first-hand the marketing and promotional activities of other countries and regions across the globe, including National Tourist Boards. Members should note that the Council has been represented at the World Travel Market each year for the last 9 years. The event also represents an opportunity to identify potential collaborative partners and funding sources to support the development of our tourism offering.
This year Visit Belfast has organised two important industry events:
a) Monday 6th November – Meet the Irish, Welcome Reception
This event will take place on the Tourism Ireland stand at ExCel Centre from 6pm and will be free to attend. This event is a great opportunity for the Tourism Ireland trade to meet key travel professionals currently working within the island of Ireland.
b) Tuesday 7th November - The Belfast Welcome
This event will take place in a venue in London and will be a smaller event where Visit Belfast and partners can network with a selection of key tour operators and travel agents, particularly chosen for their continued support of Belfast and the surrounding area. This event is free for any partners joining Visit Belfast on the stand on either Tuesday or Wednesday of World Travel Market.
The cost of attendance for an Elected Member is estimated at £529.23 (based on the usual two-night duration). Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee nominates the Chairman and/or Vice- Chairman or their nominees to represent the Council, and be accompanied by a Tourism Officer, at the World Travel Market for at least one day to experience first-hand the marketing and promotional activities of Belfast Regional Tourism Partnership to gather information on competing destinations and best practice within the sector.
10. HOLIDAY WORLD DUBLIN, 26-28 JANUARY 2018
The Belfast Regional Tourism Partnership will exhibit at Holiday World Dublin from 26-28 January 2018. In previous years the Development Committee has been represented at the opening trade afternoon to view the efforts of the Belfast Regional Tourism Partnership in promoting the region in the context of competition from worldwide destinations.
The cost of a Member’s attendance at Holiday World Dublin is £329.90 (based on one overnight stay and two full days’ subsistence).
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee nominates the Chairman and/or Vice Chairman and an Officer to attend Holiday World Dublin on Friday, 26 January 2018.
11. BUSINESS MENTORING PROGRAMME
Members will recall that this project was agreed by the Development Committee at its June meeting but subsequently referred back for further consideration by the Chairman in light of correspondence received from Inspire Business Centre. The Council has now responded to the matters raised by this organisation and the project is presented for Members’ further consideration. The Committee should note that the proposed structure of the project remains unchanged with the details as per the Appendix presented in June 2017 and the information set out below:
Following the high profile Evolution Programme which delivered a programme of bespoke mentoring for over 500 local businesses from 2014-2015, the Development Committee agreed to fund the delivery of a series of Business Mentoring Programmes to build upon the success of Evolution and continue this Council led one to one engagement with companies. To date the Council has supported a further three such Mentoring Programmes with a total of 92 local companies receiving support as part of this initiative.
Due to continued high demand for the programme, there is currently a waiting list of 25 businesses, with this list growing on a daily basis. In order that the Council continues to deliver this valuable business support service, it is recommended that a new phase of the programme be procured, this will accommodate up to 30 businesses (or 425 hours of mentor support), at a maximum cost of £25,500.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee agrees the delivery of the next phase of the Business Mentoring Programme as outlined above.
12. MADE IN LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH (MILC)
Members will be aware of the unique Made in Lisburn Castlereagh (MILC) event which was held on the 13th June 2017, at Lagan Valley Island. This unique, first for N. Ireland, event was a great opportunity to profile the City as a key investment location, as well as showcasing the many innovative and world class companies who are located here.
Attached at APPENDIX 8 ED is an evaluation report which was undertaken with the participating companies on the day. The report is very positive in terms of the participating companies, event partners and sponsors experience of MILC, with a resounding 100% of companies indicating that they would participate in the event should it be run again.
Based upon the success of the event, and the attached feedback it is proposed that the Council once again co-ordinates a MILC event in 2018, with some revising of the event to reflect key lessons learned and recommendations made by the participating companies. This would include working in consultation with local schools and educational establishments; holding the event earlier in the academic year, perhaps September to ensure more schools are available to attend; promoting career and job opportunities and targeting older age groups of students; as well as reviewing the timings and the possibility of incorporating additional business workshops and/or master classes.
It is proposed that the Council once again act as the main sponsor of the event at a total cost of £15,000, with match funding sourced from participating companies and sponsorship.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee agree to coordinate and fund a revised MILC event in 2018, with a total Council contribution of £15,000.
13. FEASIBILITY STUDY TO ASSESS POTENTIAL FOR A LISBURN CASTLEREAGH BUSINESS INCUBATION HUB
Following the Review of Public Administration and transferred enterprise functions to local government, local authorities have an opportunity to help shape and grow new innovative businesses within their local council areas through the provision of dedicated incubation assistance for the early business start-up stage.
It is therefore proposed that the Committee agrees to fund a feasibility study to assess the potential and to produce a solid evidence base for the development of such incubation assistance in the LCCC area. The Study would include:
• scoping of local and national supply of service • business formation/survival levels • suitable location/s and • existing business incubation/support activity
APPENDIX 9 ED provides further information on the proposed scope of the study. It is anticipated that the study will cost up to a maximum of £20,000.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee agrees to fund a feasibility study as outlined above to assess the potential for dedicated business incubation assistance across the Council area, at a maximum cost of up to £20,000.
14. MIPIM UK, OLYMPIA LONDON, 18TH – 19TH OCTOBER 2017
It was agreed at a meeting of the Development Committee in December 2016 that the Council would once again exhibit at the UK’s largest property exhibition, MIPIM UK in London.
Attached at APPENDIX 10 ED is an outline of the planned approach to investment promotion at the event, and key activities which includes a collaborative N. Ireland focused Panel discussion with Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, and potentially any other N. Ireland Councils who are attending MIPIM UK.
It is recommended that the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Committee attends MIPIM UK, along with appropriate Officer representation.
The estimated cost per Member attending MIPIM, London is £614.50 (based on flights, transfers/other travel, hotel and subsistence).
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee notes the content of Appendix 10 ED and recommends that the Chairman and Vice Chairman or their nominees attend, along with appropriate Officer representation.
15. CASTLE STREET CAR PARK – REQUEST FOR USE BY NIE
As Members are aware NIE have commenced a capital works scheme in Lisburn City Centre to upgrade their infrastructure in advance of the Council’s planned Public Realm Scheme. The Council has received a request from NIE regarding the use of the Council owned site at 46C Castle Street. They have requested use of the site during their works as an area to store and more easily access materials to avoid long journeys from site. Members may recall a similar arrangement was in place for Clanmil Housing during the building of the adjacent residential development. Officers would plan to work with the Council’s solicitor to prepare an appropriate lease agreement and work to agree terms with NIE.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee agree to the request from NIE to use the Council’s site at 46C Castle Street during their works in Lisburn City Centre.
16. HILLSBOROUGH PROJECTS UPDATE
Members will be aware that there are now a series of capital and other projects being developed for delivery in the village of Hillsborough in the coming years. These include, amongst others, a major Public Realm Scheme; development of a new car park adjacent to Hillsborough Fort; regeneration of Hillsborough Forest Park. With a need to understand the complexities involved in these projects and their delivery a report has been prepared outlining the issues and interdependencies between the various elements of the projects. The Hillsborough Projects Update Report is attached at APPENDIX 11 ED for review. This report highlights the overarching themes and issues of both Council projects and those of other stakeholders. It outlines the next steps proposed to enable the projects to be progressed and mitigate the risks of some of the highlighted issues. Recommendation It is recommended that Members agree the Hillsborough Projects Report and programme recommendations.
17. CITY PROMOTION BUDGET – PROJECT EVALUATIONS
17.1Balmoral Show Evaluation
The Balmoral Show was staged over three days from 10 – 13 May 2017 (including extra Saturday on top of normal 3 days) at Balmoral Park, Maze Long Kesh, bringing significant numbers of visitors into the Council area.
A report on the 2017 City Centre showcase and promotional activity, including survey results from visitors to the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council marquee is attached at APPENDIX 12 ED. Generally, feedback has been extremely positive from traders and visitors to date with plans to further develop the linkages with Lisburn City Centre in future years.
The Visit Lisburn and Castlereagh marquee was redesigned in 2017 with a slightly larger marquee required to accommodate the increased trader requests for exhibition stands, and presented differently to enhance its appeal to the public.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee agrees to support a similar initiative for the 2018 Balmoral Show with a budget of £35,000 to be allocated from the City Promotion budget.
17.2Pipe Band Championships Evaluation
The recently staged City of Lisburn Pipe Band Championship was deemed a success with an increase in visitor numbers, more bands performing and more drum majors competing in the competition.
Attached at APPENDIX 13(a) ED and APPENDIX 13(b) ED is a full evaluation, including feedback from RSPBNI and visitor surveys. Members should note that due to a number of issues it proved difficult to stay within the technical budget and this should be considered in any future bid. To remind members, the winning bid to host this year’s City of Lisburn Pipe Band Championships was £12,000 grant, plus a further £3,000 in technical costs. The actual technical budget ran to £4,200, mostly due to increase in security/stewarding costs.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee notes the evaluation and considers making a bid to stage a Pipe Band Championship in 2018. The minimum value likely to secure a Championship would be in the region of £12k funding to RSPBNI, plus an additional £4,500 on technical costs.
18. LISBURN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS BBQ – 14 SEPTEMBER 2017
Attached at APPENDIX 14 ED is an invitation to the Council from Lisburn Chamber of Commerce to attend its Business BBQ on 14 September 2017 at the Yellow Door in Lisburn City Centre.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Chairman and/or Vice Chairman represent the Council at this event.
ITEMS FOR NOTING
19. HEATHROW LOGISTICS HUB BID – UPDATE
It was agreed at the meeting of the Development Committee on 7th June 2017 that the Council would work in partnership with relevant local stakeholders including possibly other Councils, to develop and submit an Expression of Interest for suitable sites identified in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area, to be considered as one of the new Heathrow off-site logistics hubs.
To this end Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council took the lead on a collaborative bid on behalf of Belfast City Council and Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Councils for the following sites
• Maze Long Kesh • North Foreshore • Silverwood
Gilchrist Morrow Associates in partnership with Oxford Economics were appointed through a Single Tender Action to support the Council with this bid, at a total cost of £14,500, the cost of which was split equally between participating Councils. Please note this also includes Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council who contributed to the cost of the consultancy support, but who decided not to proceed as part of this collaborative bid.
Whilst Heathrow have not confirmed a date to inform bidders whether they have been successful or not, they have indicated that a long list of potential sites will be published in the Autumn of 2017, and those bidders invited to submit a further detailed bid at that stage.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee notes the above.
20. NORTHERN IRELAND BUSINESS START UP PROGRAMME (NIBSUP)
Members will be aware that Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is leading on the delivery of the collaborative ERDF application from the ERDF Investment for Growth & Jobs Programme (2014-2020) on behalf of the 11 Councils in Northern Ireland for the delivery of a Northern Ireland wide business start-up programme.
Attached at APPENDIX 15(a) ED is a brief update report on NIBSUP, with a copy of the Tender Evaluation Report for the Enquiry Handling contract attached at APPENDIX 15(b) ED.
A signed copy of the Councils Service Level Agreement and Data Controller Agreement attached is attached at APPENDIX 15(c) ED for the management of the NIBSUP Management Information System. Members will recall that as per recent reports to the Committee in relation to the NIBSUP, Belfast City Council has lead responsibility for the development and management of the dedicated programme MIS system.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members note the contents of the NIBSUP update report.
21. NILGA: BROADBAND, LOCAL NEEDS, LOCAL SOLUTIONS: WEDNESDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER, 9.30AM, CRAIGAVON CIVIC CENTRE
Attached at APPENDIX 16 ED is a leaflet detailing a forthcoming event being held by NILGA on Wednesday 27th September 2017 at Craigavon Civic Centre, to coincide with the NILGA Full Members meeting.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members note the details of the NILGA event.
22. ERASMUS+ LETTER OF OFFER – AGE FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES
Following a successful funding bid the Council received an offer of €297,735 (£270,787) under the EU Erasmus+ Programme to deliver a project entitled ‘Age Friendly Communities’. The project aims to support SMEs, Retailers and Service Delivery Agents to improve product/service delivery that better meets the needs of older people and as a consequence maximise opportunities for greater economic return.
The project will be delivered within the Council area and in tandem in designated areas within Denmark, Poland, Spain and Republic of Ireland and will share the objectives of the newly appointed Age Friendly Co Ordinator and furthermore will be critical to the meaningful delivery of the Council’s Community Plan.
Key outcomes will include:
- The development of a baseline needs analysis report on the service requirements of older people at a local and EU level - The development of digital skills online training resource focussing on marketing strategies to better engage with older people and to be piloted with 15 SMEs, Retailers and Delivery Agents within the Council area. This course will be opened sourced and therefore available to other businesses upon request - Training in the development of new products and services for older people provided to at least 15 SMEs, Retailers and Delivery Agents within the Council area, with the opportunity to deliver further training subject to demand - The creation of a collaborative online forum that will allow exchange of good practice at a local level and EU level that can be accessed by local businesses upon request
The Council will act as lead partner and as a consequence will be responsible for the management and administration of the overall grant scheme on behalf of the Council and five other delivery agents as outlined below:
- European E Learning Institute, Denmark - Northern Chamber of Commerce, Poland - Ageing Social Lab Foundation, Spain - Feltec Software Solutions, ROI - Louth County Council, ROI
Whilst the Council will manage the administration of the total grant of €297,735 (£270,787), the actual proportion of the grant awarded directly to the Council to deliver the project locally is €57,766 (circa £52,500).
The letter of offer agreement was signed by the Chief Executive with the agreement of the Development Committee Chairman and returned to the awarding body on Thursday 17 August 2017 to adequately meet a requirement to return documentation within 5 working days.
Taking into consideration that the letter of offer agreement had to be signed before any scheduled meeting of the Development Committee, the agreement was presented to Members at the August meeting of Full Council and it was retrospectively agreed to accept the grant offer as detailed above.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members note the above update.
23. ENTREPRENEURS NETWORK AND FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS NETWORK SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 2017-2018
Members will be aware that as part of the work of the Business Solutions team in Economic Development, the Council hosts two free networking and discussion forums for small businesses in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area. With a total of 12 events held throughout the year, (9 events for the monthly Entrepreneurs Network and quarterly events for the local Female Entrepreneurs network), these sessions offer practical information aimed at addressing key issues and promoting local business development. These networking sessions cumulate in a final high profile event with a special guest business speaker in Hillsborough Castle.
Attached at APPENDIX 17(a) ED and APPENDIX 17(b) ED is a copy of the new networking schedule for 2017/2018, which will be delivered at a maximum budget of up to £17,000, to include all venue hire, catering, guest speakers and marketing activities.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee notes the two Business Networking schedules for 2017/18, and further notes that there is provision in the 2017- 2018 Economic Development budget for this expenditure.
24. BUDGET REPORT – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Attached under APPENDIX 18 ED for the information of Members, is a copy of the summary Budget Report for Economic Development for the year to 31 March 2018 as at 30 April 2017.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Committee notes the attached report, setting out the budget position to 31 March 2018 as at 30 April 2017.
PAUL MCCORMICK HEAD OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 30 August 2017 APPENDIX 1(a) ED
Civic Headquarters Lagan Valley Island Lisburn & Lisburn BT27 4RL
Castlereagh Tel: 028 9250 9250 City Council www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk
Our Ref: TD/PMcC/st/CE47(N)
17 May 2017
Mr A Hamilton Chief Executive Invest Northern Ireland Bedford Square Bedford Street Belfast BT2 7ES
Dear Alastair
FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR HOTEL PROJECTS
The Council has been working hard to bring forward a new hotel project in Lisburn City Centre.
I understand there may be a policy within Invest Nl that effectively places a moratorium on grant support for hotel developments within a 10 mile radius of Belfast City Centre and this policy may have a negative impact on these efforts.
The Council would be keen to meet with you to discuss this matter, and I look forward to hearing from you in due course .
Yours sincerely
Dr. Theresa Donaldson CHIEF EXECUTIVE
APPENDIX 1(b) ED
LJSBUR:\' & CASTLEREAGH Invest 1•• CITYCOC\UL • Northern 0 7 JUN 2017 Ireland
CHIEF EXECUTI VES OFFICE Alastair Hamilton Chief Executive 5th June 2017
Dr Theresa Donaldson Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council Civic Headquarters Lagan Valley Island Lisburn BT27 4RL
Dear Dr Donaldson
Financial Support for Hotel Projects
I appreciate the efforts the Council is making toward the development of tourism accommodation.
Invest Nl has responsibility for delivering Tourism Accommodation Policy as set out by the Tourism Branch, Department for the Economy, led by Mike Thompson.
As you have noted, this policy currently includes a moratorium on capital financial assistance toward hotel accommodation within a ten mile radius of Belfast City Centre. Recent developments suggests a healthy appetite from the private sector for hotel investment in the Belfast area.
For further discussion on this matter can I suggest you contact Mike Thompson on [email protected] .uk, or his colleague Nuala Crossin who is Head of Tourism Liaison Branch - nuala [email protected] .uk on 028 9052 9556.
Softer business support is available to hotels in this area through Invest Nl's suite of advisory business products including marketing , training, IT and energy savings- subject to normal eligibility criteria. Should the developers wish to find out more about this type of support, they are welcome to contact Andrew Horne, Tourism Manager on 028 9069 8467 or andrew.horne@investni .com.
Yours sincerely
Bedford Square. Bedford Street , Belfast BT2 7ES Direct T: +44 (0} 2B 9069 8260 F : +44 (0} 28 9043 6536 Text Relay: 18001 028 9069 8260 """\INVESTORS I IN PEOPLE Gold alastair.hamilton @investni.com www.investni.com 8
APPENDIX 2 ED
Dr Theresa Donaldson Dundonald House Chief Executive Upper Newtownards Road Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Ballymiscaw, Belfast BT4 3SB Island Civic Centre Tel: 028 9052 4597 Lisburn Co. Antrim 16 August 2017 BT27 4RL
Dear Theresa
RE: Rural Tourism Scheme
I am pleased to confirm that the Rural Development Programme scheme for Rural Tourism business case has now been approved. We are keen to see all the funds invested as soon as possible and to that end my staff are engaging with the appropriate staff within your council to examine what other potential projects you may have that could apply to future expression of interest calls.
The scheme is particularly focused on attracting out of state visitors to rural locations in Northern Ireland and is targeted at projects which are unique/innovative offering a grant of up to £500,000 at 75% intervention rate.
We now have some technical assistance funding available to develop future pipeline projects. Funding available is up to £50,000 at an intervention rate of 75% and use of this funding is also being discussed with the appropriate council staff. Any funds awarded under technical assistance will be deducted from any future associated successful full project applications.
If you have any queries regarding the scheme please contact gareth.evans@daera- ni.gov.uk
Yours Sincerely
Catherine McCallum Director of Rural Affairs
APPENDIX 3 ED APPENDIX 4 ED APPENDIX 5 ED
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council Strategic Vitality Project 2017 – 2018
The Draft Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Strategic Vitality Project has been developed in consultation with a range of stakeholders. The proposed scheme would complement ongoing efforts aimed at regenerating Lisburn and Castlereagh. An application for funding through the Department for Communities will be submitted to deliver the following draft initiatives:
• ‘Pocket Parks’ – Lisburn City Centre;
• Shop Front Improvements Scheme;
• Moat Park Events Space – Purchase of equipment and updating the facility to accommodate events.
‘Pocket Parks’ – Lisburn City Centre
Pocket parks are small areas of inviting public space for all people to enjoy, providing relief from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. A pocket park is a small park accessible to the general public frequently created on a single vacant building lot or on small, irregular pieces of land.
Officers have been in discussion with owners of two vacant derelict sites that could potentially be transformed into Pocket parks bringing a quiet space to the busy city centre environment. These spaces will have an attractive environment and will be open to everyone. The pocket park will create a small oasis were people are welcome to sit and relax and provide an opportunity for people to come together. The space will contribute to making Lisburn City Centre friendlier, greener and more resilient. Other site options can be considered as the scheme develops.
The introduction of pocket parks in Lisburn City Centre will contribute to the Council’s Corporate Plan. The Council have prioritised the promotion of Health and Well Being across the Council area. The Council aim to provide a clean, healthy environment maintaining parks and open spaces contributing to the health and well-being of residents and visitors to the city.
Pocket parks have been popping up recently in many NI towns and villages, a great example of a park similar to what is proposed is in the centre of Dromore, Co Down. This space has been welcomed and enjoyed by many local residents.
The proposed pocket parks in Lisburn City Centre will complement the recently developed Public Realm space in Market Square in Lisburn, bringing life to otherwise neglected areas of the City Centre. They will help drive footfall to these areas and support local businesses.
Shop Front Improvements Scheme - (70:30 match funded)
The new phase of the public realm works, Lisburn Linkages, is due to commence in the Spring of 2018. These works will effect a number of businesses along Bridge Street, Castle Street, Seymour Street, Antrim Street and Bachelors Walk.
Throughout the period of public consultation for the Lisburn Linkages Scheme the Council held a number of meetings in Lisburn City Centre with a range of stakeholders to discuss and prioritise projects, events and issues within the City Centre. Discussions have taken place on how the Council can support businesses in the City Centre, with particular focus on the five streets affected by the works both during the works taking place and, once complete, to build on the achievements of the project while working to address the ongoing economic needs within the project area.
Following on from the original public realm works a considerable amount of negativity had arisen amongst stakeholders and understandably businesses are concerned regarding what impact the new public realm works will have on their businesses. The Council are keen to manage the situation in advance of the works commencing and counteract with appropriate proposals to ensure the proposed positive outcomes of the Lisburn Linkages public realm scheme are realised, upon the completion of the construction works.
Based on the success of previous schemes the Council could plan to launch a shop front improvement scheme which will present business owners in the City Centre, and the five adjoining streets in the Linkages scheme, with an opportunity to invest in their properties and in turn improve the overall presentation and perception of the City Centre.
The physical improvements in relation to the opportunities available to businesses through the Strategic Vitality Project in the form of a shop front improvement scheme will continue to address the need for physical regeneration in the town centre and the promotion of public / private sector investment.
It is proposed that business owners within the five streets effected by the scheme will be offered grant funding to a maximum of £5,000 which must be match funded by the property owners. In addition businesses in the area of the previous public realm scheme will have the opportunity to avail of up to £1,000 also match funded 70:30. This follows on from a previous scheme when those in the original public realm area were offered the higher amount of grant for their property improvements.
Further to consultation with City Centre Businesses and stakeholders a number of businesses have been identified who would be very keen to avail of such an opportunity. It is also planned that the scheme will be extended to the areas of Dundonald and Carryduff. Through initial research and consultation a smaller number of businesses have been identified that might have an interest in the scheme.
The Shopping Centre in Carryduff has been granted planning permission to demolish the current centre and replace with a shopping/housing complex with work anticipated to begin at the end of 2017. The Council’s shopfront scheme would provide businesses in the area with an opportunity to upgrade their shop fronts in the wake of the new development. Dundonald Village benefited from funding through DfC in the last two schemes. Offering the shop front scheme in the village will help the Council to continue to build relationships with businesses in this area and demonstrate the desire to invest in the village and address the economic needs.
The implementation of a shop front improvement scheme in Lisburn City Centre, Dundonald and Carryduff will contribute to the Council’s Corporate Plan. The Council have prioritised the investing in Place and Environment across the Council area.
Moat Park Events Space – Purchase of Equipment and Updating the Facility to Accommodate Events
Through a previous round of DfC funding improvements were carried out to Moat Park which included the installation of an events space in the pavilion area.
The creation of an events space in Dundonald has allowed the recent delivery of the Council’s Park Life Summer Programme. The programme has been well attended over the summer months. Demand for the facilities is growing from local community groups and churches.
The potential exists for the creation of a larger scheme to create a full performance space in Dundonald.
Enhanced events provision will continue to increase footfall and garner an interest from local stakeholders in using the space for larger events and activities. As part of this overall Revitalisation programme it is proposed to update the facility and purchase essential equipment to facilitate more events and proposed schemes such as community festivals and music events.
COSTS
Pocket Parks Total £40,000
Shop Front Scheme Total £170,000
Moat Park Events Space Upgrade Total £20,000
Totals £230,000
DFC Contribution £150,000 LCCC Contribution £30,000 Private Sector Contribution £50,000
APPENDIX 6 ED
Tender Report for ‘The Review of the City Centre Masterplan/ Retail Capacity Studies Competition’ Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council
1.0 Introduction Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council wish to appoint a suitably qualified consultancy team to undertake a twofold comprehensive study for the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council area. Part one of the study will be the review of the Lisburn City Centre Masterplan which was launched in 2010 focusing on Lisburn City Centre only. Part two of the study will be to carry out detailed Retail Capacity Studies in the commercial centres of the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council area to inform the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council Local Development Plan 2017 – 2032.
1.01 The Tender Information was advertised in the Belfast Telegraph and placed on the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council eProcurement platform. The tender closed at 12 noon on Wednesday 12 Noon 28th June 2017, 4 Tenders were received.
2.0 Tender Opening
2.01 Paul McCormick (Head of Economic Development, LCCC) and Kathryn Cahill (Procurement Manager, LCCC) met Monday 3rd July at 12 noon to open the tender documents.
2.02 Four organisations returned submissions by the closing date of, Wednesday 28th June 2017 as listed at section 3.02 below.
3.0 Tender Evaluation
3.01 The Evaluation Panel comprising Suzanne Lutton (Regeneration & Infrastructure Manager, LCCC), Yvonne Burke (Regeneration & Infrastructure Officer, LCCC) and Lois Jackson (Principal Planning Officer), met at 9.30am, Friday 21st July 2017.
3.02 The following four organisations returned submissions using the Lisburn eProcurement platform:
Ref No. Economic Operator 1 AECOM 2 Nexus Planning Limited 3 Ove Arup & partners Limited 4 Strategic Planning
3.03 Tenders were evaluated using the agreed criteria and weightings as set out in the issued Tender documents. The services proposed by each tenderer and the relative Costs were evaluated and scored in order to determine the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) in relation to Quality/Cost.
3.04 The final MEAT scores based on methodology and proposed approach(40%), demonstration of an understanding of the client requirements (10%) project manager and team member experience (10%) and price (40%) are as follows;
Economic Operator % Score AECOM 80% Nexus Planning Limited 84 % Strategic Planning 90% Ove Arup & partners Limited 94%
4.0 Tender Prices
4.01 The Tender Prices submitted by the four organisations are as follows:
Tender Prices £125,904.00 £106,993.13 £64,105.48 £63,434.08
4.02 In line with Guidance from Central Procurement Directorate, the tender prices quoted are not attributed to each organisation, in order to maintain the Commercial Sensitivity of each company. The Tender Price submissions above have been ranked from highest to lowest.
4.03 Being the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) it is recommended that the successful tenderer Ove Arup & partners Limited, be appointed for this project.
Paul McCormick Head of Economic Development 25th August 2017
APPENDIX 7 ED
APPENDIX 8 ED
Made in Lisburn Castlereagh
Evaluation Data
03/07/2017
Evaluation Data from Exhibitors
Q1. Overall how would you rate the below aspects of the event?
Answer Excellent Very Good Good Poor Very Poor Options Venue 62% 38% 0 0 0 Catering 62% 30% 7% 0 0
Q2. Why did your business choose to participate?
Response Answer Options % Promote the business 46% Recruit staff 24% Network with other businesses 15% Find new customers/suppliers 0 Other (please specify) 15% Other:
Both an opportunity to network with other businesses and promote our business.
Q3. Were your objectives met?
Response Answer Options % Yes 61% No 24% Don't know 15%
Additional comments:
We got additional profile for being a Lisburn based business amongst our peers and the Council. We considered it as being a careers promotional event so time will tell We thought the event was well organised and a great opportunity to promote our business however we felt the event wasn't very well attended and from a recruitment perspective we didn't get as many enquiries as hoped. We had no one enquire about job opportunities which was disappointing as this was our main objective to promote our business and the employment opportunities that exist at Decora. For Conveyortek I would be keen to see more A level aged students at the event
Q4. Did you feel it was beneficial to have your exhibition stand graphics designed and printed for you?
100% of respondents answered this question Yes
Additional comments:
It was good to have a formatted exhibition approach. Levelled the playing field somewhat. Given that we had none previously, then absolutely 'Yes'. Took a headache away. We liked the uniform approach to the stands so all the businesses looked the same. Even though I had reservations I like how all stands were the same - all on an equal footing.
Q5. Please rate the quality of the exhibition graphics designed for your stand
Response Answer Options % Excellent 84% Very Good 15% Good 0 Poor 0 Very Poor 0
Q6. Were you a Business Participant or Event Partner?
Response Answer Options % Business Participant 62% Event Partner 38%
Q7. Do you feel that the cost of participating in the event was good value for money?
Response Answer Options % Yes 84% No 7%
Additional comments:
Had we met with potential candidates it would have been excellent value for money but this was not the case. This was a great opportunity for community regeneration and a social enterprise organisation be included in the LCCC economic showcase, something that will highlight the social and economic opportunities available to local businesses based within community. We would pay to exhibit again next year. We would exhibit again. Fair price but a tight enough space to exhibit product.
Q8. Please complete the following:
Answer Options Yes No Don't know Do you feel the timings worked well? 85% 15% 0 Do you feel the time of year was suitable for this 62% 38% 0 event? Do you feel the structure of the different audiences worked well? (Businesses, followed 76% 8% 16% by Schools and open to the public throughout)
Additional comments:
The timings worked well, however, having a careers event in June for school children is perhaps not the best time. With exams more or less finished and holidays on the horizon, interest was very limited and motivation lacking. Much better interest earlier in the year at most events.
Think there could be a better time of the year when people were keener to attend. September seems better, after the summer, schools back, exams not in the way, businesses fired up to do something that side of Xmas. Given the audiences I think it was pretty good. Perhaps it should have been open to businesses throughout as well. If there was a different hook to have them attend breakfast, lunch or morning/afternoon presentations, key business speakers in that lecture theatre for instance ? It’s all about the interaction this event isn't it?
Limited public visitors (not sure how this was communicated). Held during school exam period and at same time as QUB & UUJ careers convention.
We would appreciate if there was more public participating in the event.
Pre-Christmas would have been better to enable lower and upper sixth to attend. Students at the event were very young and not making major educational decisions that would reflect their career options. No representation from SERC students - very poor. School students were disinterested.
The targeting of audiences meant we could designate specific staff and projects to the times rather than manning the station all day with generic knowledge.
The afternoon was much quieter. The school visits in the morning made it busier. It would also would have been more beneficial to students who were older as most of the students were at GCSE level. I would also have liked to see the event advertised to the public more from a recruitment point of view.
The timing of the event appeared to clash with A level students exams and cold maybe be a little later or earlier if possible.
Only feedback I would give is that maybe 6pm was too late to open, it did start to die off from about 4.30.
Q9. Event Organisation: Please rate the overall organisation of the event.
Response Answer Options % Excellent 76% Very Good 8% Good 16% Poor 0 Very Poor 0
Q10. Did you find the Exhibitor Manual issued to you in advance of the event useful?
Response Answer Options % Yes 100% No 0 Did not refer to it 0
Q11. Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council used multiple platforms to promote the event, did you feel the level of PR was sufficient?
Response Answer Options % Yes 62% No 30% Don't know 8%
Additional comments:
Very little knowledge of event in local area. We have people who live in Lisburn and no one had heard of the event.
Though I heard plenty of exhibitors commenting that other people they knew hadn't heard of it. Perhaps it needed a 3-month run in and other promotions eg. radio, billboard, newspaper, leafleting etc. to reach other audiences.
As a resident of Lisburn I would not have known this was on other than by being involved - none of my friends from the area were aware either.
I felt as though the website was poor, limited online coverage and no traditional forms such as leaflets around the Lisburn area - this could have increased footfall dramatically. The event should have been advertised as a recruitment event for the local community - this would have enticed more footfall and had better outcomes for companies.
Resurgam were able to link into PR and use for their Third Sector targeting.
As a resident in the area, I didn't see any PR about the event - only being approached to exhibit as a business. There were other businesses I talked to whose aim was to attract staff and tell them about current employment opportunities so I think it would be useful to consider this for future events.
Q12. Would your organisation be willing to take part in a future Made in Lisburn Castlereagh event if it were to take place?
Response Answer Options % Yes 100% No 0
Additional comments:
Potentially, if there are some changes to date, promotion etc.
Would be keen to hear the consensus of what the feedback is from other participants and what would definitely change for next year. Gives us reasons to attend!
Yes, if the event was advertised in a different way e.g. recruitment day for local students and members of the public.
Absolutely, looking forward to it or to any of our six Social Enterprises linking!
Further comments received:
Keep up the good work.
Overall an excellent idea and well executed by all involved. Well done.
We would recommend that rather the 4th year student, final year student could come to visit - those studying engineering courses etc.
The event was very well organised.
This was a very impressive and slick event that was made very welcoming. Well done guys!
Great event and a bonus to Lisburn.
Overall, it was a good opportunity to showcase as an Employer in the Lisburn / Castlereagh area but I would like to have seen more people attend who are seeking job opportunities.
Overall a very positive experience for both Conveyortek and Moira Guest House. Thank you.
Very good event all round
Great event, very well organised.
Made In Lisburn Castlereagh (MILC) Budget
The total budget to deliver MILC was £27,300, with a breakdown of the funding detailed below:
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council £15,000
Event Sponsors (6 x £1,000) £6,000
Private Sector Exhibitor Contribution (21 x £300) £6,300
TOTAL £27,300 APPENDIX 9 ED
LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL
Consideration of a Feasibility Study to review LCCC locations as potential centres for business incubation/support activity
1.0 Introduction
The committee are being asked to consider the completion of a feasibility study, procured via open tender, to determine the need/potential for and likely success of an incubation/support centre/s located in the LCCC area. The study would include • aspects of existing supply/provision, • business formation / survival levels, • suitable locations and • existing business incubation / support activity
This type of activity would be additional to the support which new start-up businesses receive through the new Council led business start programme, the Northern Ireland Business Start Up Programme (NIBSUP), but wholly complementary. It would also be proactive and targeted to ensure the Council area attracts and develops local businesses in key business sectors, with the best growth, export and job creation potential. This could also comprise a key part of the Councils investment proposition.
For example Lisburn City Centre as a centre for the growth of knowledge economy businesses, and/or Dundonald Hospital space as a potential Life Sciences Incubation Hub would both automatically fall within the remit of this review.
In Belfast alone similar types of provision (excluding Enterprise Agencies) include;
• Innovation Factory, Springfield Road • Catalyst Inc, Titanic Quarter • Belfast Met e3 Building, Springfield Road • Entrepreneurial Spark, Lombard Street • Blick Shared Services, Malone Road • Ormeau Baths Building, Ormeau Avenue
Other local Councils have identified the need to define demand and use of potential Council owned properties to support business support e.g. ABC have gone out to tender for similar studies.
2.0 Overview
A typical scope for this type of study, over 10-12 weeks, is:
Task 1 To review the scale of business start-up (and potential for incubation) within LCCC over the last 5 years.
Task 2 To assess the potential for innovation spin-off from both new start-up businesses and the major employers in LCCC, and the sub region, to determine the right focus for the Centre(s).
Task 3 To establish size, location and occupancy rate of existing innovation and incubation centres and other premises offering similar services and rental values, focusing specifically on those sectors identified by Council as targeted areas.
Task 4 To assess the feasibility of developing a business innovation and incubation centre(s) for LCCC and looking, in overview, at potential sites and buildings This is light touch but starts to indicate broad project costs and outline business plans (10 years typically) to enable a decision to be made on a site; a visioning study to be commissioned and; key stakeholder consultation.
Task 5 Propose a specification and operational model for an incubation centre for the recommended option(s) and consider the business support requirements for companies utilising the facility and also the wider SME business community.
APPENDIX 10 ED
MIPIM UK 2017 SHOWCASE
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council and Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council both exhibited at MIPIM UK in October 2016. While both areas have attracted encouraging levels of interest from prospective investors, it is considered that there is potential to further raise profile and exposure though collaboration. While the ‘Business Showcase’ presentations delivered during the 2016 event attracted interest, it is proposed that consideration be given to an alternative forum to promote opportunities in Lisburn, Castlereagh, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, set within a wider Northern Ireland Context.
NI Panel Discussion Officers from both Councils met to review findings from last year’s event and discuss potential collaboration for MIPIM 2017. Officers noted that in previous years panel discussions around a topic with broad appeal were generally well attended by a range of interest groups. It is considered that one option for 2017 would be a panel discussion focused on a topic/theme of interest across the UK and beyond, but with a specific focus that helps to illustrate a unique opportunity in Northern Ireland. To this end a Panel slot has been booked for Wed 18th October at 2.15pm, and given this is a 30 min slot, it needs to be ‘punchy’ and attention grabbing.
Topic The key message which the Panel discussions will promote is that N. Ireland is ‘Open for Business’, highlighting and complementing Invest NI’s key investment messages. For example the unique challenge and opportunity in Northern Ireland associated with a land border with the EU, clearly with a focus on how this might be exploited in the future. Discussion could begin at an NI-level, and lead into location-specific opportunities for each of the Council areas in terms of how we are shaping and defining our own Inward Investment Proposition.
Possible Titles: • Commercial Property Boom Time for N. Ireland • Prosperous times for Investment in N. Ireland • Commercial Bounce Back for N. Ireland • Investment Challenges & Opportunities for N. Ireland • Differentiating the N.I investment Offer
For information see below recent article by KPMG on the opportunities of Brexit for the UK Regions, notably the increasing role which Local Government plays in this (and investment). This could provide a good context for the panel discussion.
Don’t waste a good crisis (KPMG 2017) Regions should grab the opportunity of Brexit to accelerate their efforts to differentiate and market themselves: identify where they are strongest, what they are famous for, where they have an edge in terms of workforce, location or infrastructure … and then go out and sell themselves under that banner. Harnessing the profile of new mayors who now govern an increasing number of UK towns and cities is one quick and effective way to start doing that.
This more activist role for local government struck me on a recent visit to Norwich. Council leaders there are easing off on references to their “cathedral city” and are using their proximity to Cambridge to position Norwich as part of the burgeoning ‘Silicon Fen’ cluster. Or take Hull: by linking the technical focus of their university with local offshore wind experts they have created a national hub for this renewable sector (and one of the least geared to EU exports according to the Centre for Cities study). Specialisation is a powerful tool for regions.
For some their strategy will need appropriate investment in infrastructure, skills, academic links and so on. But this is not simply an appeal for more funds from central or local government. It relies just as much on bold decision-making and an imaginative approach to alternative sources of finance and funding. The emergence of East London’s Silicon Roundabout was not primarily a story of money. It involved a group of like-minded start-ups whose clustering together encouraged the free movement of ideas, talent and capital. Perhaps Brexit will stimulate new and varied ways of thinking of public private partnerships.
For Britain’s regional leaders then, the task is for some hard-headed reflection about their strengths and weaknesses as they prepare to enter a more competitive global market. For businesses, the challenge is also to ask themselves some searching questions. They may be rooted to the British Isles because of their customer base or simply through history and inclination. But that doesn’t mean the start and end of a location strategy review. As companies prepare to compete outside the Single Market, locating themselves in the right part of the UK – surrounded by the best infrastructure, people, ideas and partners they can find – could mean the difference between a good Brexit and a bad Brexit.
As already mentioned it is important that the Panel discussion reflects Invest NI’s core investment messages which include:
Ten reasons why Northern Ireland is a good place to invest.
1. Talent and skills in abundance: The Collaborative Growth Programme provides support for groups of SMEs who want to work together to scope and exploit opportunities that could enhance their competitive edge. In order to be eligible for funding each group must consist of a minimum of four Northern Ireland companies, one of which must be an Invest Northern Ireland customer and be willing to act as Lead Company.
2. Competitive operating costs: Northern Ireland’s operating costs are highly competitive and among the lowest in the UK and Europe. A wide variety of business facilities are available at highly competitive costs with prime office rents among the lowest in the world; as little as £16.00 per sq ft in the Greater Belfast area, compared to £34.00 per sq ft in Dublin and £70.00 per sq ft in New York, USA.
3. Advanced telecommunications infrastructure: The UK’s vast support infrastructure ensures excellent service support to business. A resilient, digital network provides high-speed voice and data connections throughout the world. Northern Ireland was the first region in Europe to have 100 per cent access to broadband. Northern Ireland ranks as the best in the U.K. for superfast broadband availability.
We have a high capacity , low-latency transatlantic cable system, providing direct connectivity between Northern Ireland and North America, as well as onward connectivity to Europe and beyond. It offers:
• Services up to 100G per wavelength • Protected services offering 99.999% availability • Interconnection with eight points of presence across Northern Ireland • Onward connectivity to Great Britain and Europe 4. Sector/cluster strengths: Northern Ireland boasts world-class clusters in a variety of sectors. In recent years the technology, and financial and professional services sectors, have experienced the fastest growth with recent investors including Baker & McKenzie, CME Group, WANdisco and WhiteHat Security. The region is also home to world-class companies within the aerospace, advanced engineering and manufacturing as well as life and health sciences sectors.
5. Excellent university/business linkages: Northern Ireland’s internationally renowned universities have been key drivers in the development of the region’s technology and knowledge industries. Queen’s University, Belfast and Ulster University have globally-recognised research centres across a range of disciplines, which are producing new ideas that change the world in which we live and work. They each have a strong track record in commercialisation of research and in spinning-off successful business ventures. Queen’s University Belfast is the UK’s leading university for intellectual property commercialisation.
6. Location: Northern Ireland operates in the same time zone, regulatory environment and with a similar culture to the rest of the UK. It is ideally positioned geographically for global firms operating a follow-the-sun model. London is only an hour away by air, with Dublin only two hours by rail and road. There are daily direct flights to a variety of European business locations such as Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam. It provides a competitive near-shore proposition to Europe and it is the only part of the UK that shares a land border with a Euro participant (Republic of Ireland). As a result, the business community and the banking and financial services sector in Northern Ireland regularly conduct business in Euro.
7. Strong and dynamic economy : The Northern Ireland labour market continues to perform well in the current economic climate. The unemployment rate currently stands at 5.2per cent, above the average for the UK regions, but well below the Republic of Ireland and EU averages.*
8. Pro-business climate: Northern Ireland has a strongly pro-business climate. The regional Government is committed to developing the knowledge-based economy and encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship. Regulation is kept to a minimum. As part of the UK, the region benefits from the strength of the UK economy and its low-inflation, low-interest rate climate. Companies have ready access to a broad range of funding options as well as a developing venture capital market.
9. Generous financial assistance and support: Northern Ireland offers a highly attractive and competitive package of financial incentives, recruitment and training, research and development support tailored to each company’s needs. Invest NI works in an ongoing partnership with investors to ensure all the necessary support is given throughout the lifetime of a commercial venture to develop and expand the business and to improve capability and international competitiveness.
10. Our existing investors’ success speaks for itself: In recent years, Northern Ireland has become increasingly successful in attracting foreign direct investment. Key investors include multi-national companies such as Allen & Overy, Seagate Technology, Fujitsu, Bombardier Aerospace, Microsoft, Citi, Liberty Mutual, the Allstate Corporation and Baker & McKenzie LLP. Testament to the success of these investments is the fact that almost 80 per cent of new investors have already reinvested in Northern Ireland.
* April 2017
Suggested Panel Contributors –
Declan Curry (BBC Economist and Commentator) has been booked to host the Panel discussion. It’s proposed that local businesses and investors are also invited to attend the event.
It’s important that the participating Councils maximise their respective UK contacts to promote the event, to ensure as many UK agents and investors are in attendance, to this end its probably best to have a London based property ‘expert’ from one of the more established property agents.
Panel member Role Alderman Allan Ewart (Chairman LCCC Development Committee) TBC Alderman Gareth Wilson (Lord Mayor ABC) TBC Theresa Donaldson (CE) LCCC Perspective Economist tbc NI Economic Overview Roger Wilson (CE) ABC Perspective Commercial Property consultant/commentator with a presence in NI and Investment Overview UK
Costs Cost for showcase event is £1000 split between participating Councils.
As agreed by Development Committee in Dec 2016 the stand has been booked E13 – this is the same location as last year.
Miscellaneous • Discussed that participating Councils should jointly develop the PR activities for the Panel event. • Theme for LCCC MIPIM 2017 – ‘Make the Move’ – MCU have developed graphics with a Chess theme – key message is Location, Location, Location. MCU developing PR Plan and finalising promotional items. • Opportunity sites are being prepared with key supporting information to be promoted during MIPIM UK. These sites are linked to West Lisburn Development Framework, City Centre Master Plan, and Castlereagh Urban Integrated Development Framework, as well as other significant sites such as Knockbracken Health Park, and Dundonald Leisure Park. • Economic Development to review database of key contacts, leads, developers and investors, as well as the MIPIM UK database of delegates and issue invitations to the Panel event and receptions at the LCCC Stand. • Separate Meeting Schedule for Elected members and CE to be scheduled. Elected members and CE to agree contacts in advance.
APPENDIX A
MIPIM UK 2016 REVIEW
Background MIPIM UK 2016 was the third annual exhibition and conference focused on the UK property market. It is the largest property event in the UK. This was Lisburn Castlereagh’s second year and the Council team was supported by The Rt. Hon. Sir Jeffery Donaldson MP , Robert Brock of Marcol plc, Tom Hawthorne of Plastec NI and Tony Reid, MD of Spanwall EDM. Key statistics • Over 4000 people attended; • Over 2000 plus companies /local authorities were represented; • 120 exhibitors; • 5 UK Government Ministers attended; • Strong representation by GB cities including Birmingham, Leeds and Glasgow; • Lisburn Castlereagh and Armagh Banbridge Craigavon were the only two Northern Ireland councils represented.
Key outcomes for Lisburn Castlereagh • In advance of the event, 1200 company executives received direct mailings raising Lisburn Castlereagh’s profile as an investment opportunity. • 50 high profile executives in key sectors received tailored invitations including from the Chief Executive. • The LCCC stand was in a high profile location and delivered:
o 54 enquiries including 43 potential investors and property advisors. Enquiries were cross-sectoral in nature and included taking office space with access to both Greater Belfast and Dublin, hotel/leisure development and retail investment. There are also a number of unique propositions, which merit further investigation.
o A high level Chinese delegation. o Senior representatives from UK Trade & Investment and Invest NI. o 2 Westminster Ministers: . The Secretary of State for Local Communities, and . The Minister for the Cabinet Office & Paymaster General.
o Two successful hospitality events and profile for the LCCC area and local products.
o A successful on stand launch for Bluefield houseboats, an innovative Houseboat project manufactured in the LCCC area. • All enquiries have been followed up and will be ‘account managed’ going forward • PR placements as follows:
o Press release and photo in the Ulster Star along with the feature in AgendaNI;
o Post event press release in the Ulster Star and press release and photo on Ulster Star online;
o Standing Stones PR press release in the Star, a photo and press release on Ulster Star online and in the Newsletter;
o Page in the MIPIM Journal at the show.
Recommendations for MIPIM UK 2017: • Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council should make an early decision to attend MIPIM UK 18th – 20th October 2017; space books quickly; it would be sensible to book the same strategically located space as soon as possible. To this end the organisers of MIPIM UK have confirmed that the Council will benefit from a preferential rate should they reserve their stand before the end of January 2017. • MIPIM UK gives Lisburn Castlereagh access to key players in the UK property development market at a reasonable cost. • The event is focused on the GB property investment market, which is the most likely source of inward property investment to Lisburn Castlereagh /Northern Ireland. • There was only one other Northern Ireland council present which helped both councils’ visibility. • Unlike MIPIM Cannes, the Council should continue to exhibit alone at the London event rather than as a consortium. This approach has worked in each of the last two years; the LCCC message is strong and does not need a wider ‘pitch’ to attract attention at MIPIM UK, however:
o There could be opportunities for joint promotional activity at MIPIM UK 2017 with other Northern Ireland councils; o A stand-alone presence at MIPIM Cannes would be less likely to work given the scale of the French exhibition and the strong presence of large cities from across Europe. • The LCCC stand was in an excellent location for high visibility and attracting attention. • Lisburn Castlereagh’s message as the perfect location for reaching customers across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is attractive. • The stand design was attractive and projected a positive, professional image, with a number of complementary observations from other exhibitors, and the event organisers. • The theme ‘The Right Combination’ attracted attention and the idea of issuing ‘combinations’ to targeted attendees attracted people to the stand to try to win gift bags. • The exhibition organisers singled out the LCCC campaign as one of the most innovative. • The number of GB councils exhibiting increased this year including large cities and counties like Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester/Liverpool, Nottingham, Hertfordshire and Norfolk/Suffolk. • These larger players attract property professionals to the event. • Based in London, MIPIM UK is easy for British property developers to access.
Key Actions for MIPIM UK 2017 • The Council should strongly promote the pending 12½% corporation tax rate. • The Council should also promote the ideal location theme more strongly. The fact that Lisburn Castlereagh’s location close to Belfast and with rapid access to Dublin is a key selling point. • The Council should further develop the data behind the area’s offers for hotel, retail, office and other property investment. For example :
o The EIKON centre expansion and the Historic Royal Palaces’ marketing of Hillsborough Castle could create more demand for hotel space; • The business showcase was less successful for LCCC and other exhibitors – the competition from large cities is difficult to compete with. Instead the Council should have guest speakers at the stand leveraging any recent announcements or developments e.g. Marcol/Regus. • If other Northern Ireland councils are attending, the Council should consider being part of a ‘Northern Ireland’ presentation/ seminar to attract a larger audience, promoted well in advance of the conference. • While there was excellent local press coverage in the Ulster Star, this does not reach the Council’s target investment and business audience. • There is a need to secure better press coverage in publications, which developers will read. This will include trade media and GB national publications. • Follow up is crucial and as projects will progress over the medium term, the Council should use MIPIM 2017 better as an opportunity to meet existing contacts and take on additional meetings in London during MIPIM 2017. • The event is important but needs to be properly resourced, certainly for the first 2 days. The last day requires only 2-3 people for the morning.
Members should note that discussions with Reed MIDIM, the event organisers, have highlighted the following proposed enhancements for the MIPIM UK 2017 event:
• To make the Investors Forum bigger and better by making it a full day event with networking opportunities in between. • Create a central networking hub on the networking hub on the exhibition floor. • Specifically assist local authorities pitch themselves in the most attractive way to investors and help to identify what type of investor they need to meet with. • Potentially make MIPIM UK a two-day event from Wednesday to Thursday, finishing Thursday evening with a keynote speaker and a networking party. This is with the aim of encouraging exhibitors to stay Thursday evening and utilise Friday to have additional meetings and lunches with clients.
APPENDIX 11 ED Hillsborough Projects
1.0 Background Information 1.1 Members will be aware of a range of projects within the Hillsborough Village and surrounding areas which include: 1. Hillsborough Forest Redevelopment 2. Public Realm in the Centre of the Village 3. Historic Royal Palaces Renovations to Castle and Grounds 4. Improvements to Dams in Hillsborough Forest 5. Phoenix Gas Installations 6. Brown Signage Proposals (from HRP) In addition there are a range of continued LCCC revenue related operational projects which range from street cleansing through to ‘In Bloom’ competitions. Importantly consideration must also be given to the reputational risks that may arise as a result of important dignitaries visiting the castle, given that the Village is the official Royal Residence within Northern Ireland. 1.2 Although not directly attributable to the Council there are a series of other important considerations which need to be factored in when planning and co-ordinating these development proposals. These range from the current traders operating businesses that may be disrupted by the works; the delivery of large scale events such as the 12th of July celebrations and Oyster Festival, through to access of public services such as the local schools, medical centre etc. 1.3 Hillsborough Castle work is underway contracted by HRP. The Council have been supportive of this development in a number of ways but has not provided any funding. The community perceptions of these proposals is one of suspicion in particular with regard to traffic impact and car parking. 1.4 Traffic management within the Village has been a long standing issue. Whilst not addressed within this paper there are interdependencies with the development proposals for the Knockmore Link Road that have been evidenced through early traffic modelling studies completed by Transport NI. 2.0 Public Realm Project Update 2.1 The Paul Hogarth Company Ltd are leading an Integrated Design Team solution. The designs are well advanced with a view to going to tender early in 2018. Hogarth’s are appointed on a bespoke professional services contract and based on a percentage of total cost. 2.2 The project is currently proposed to be funded by the Council with a contribution profiled at £2.5M. There is an opportunity to bid for funding support of £1M from the Department for Communities (DFC). Should the DFC funding be secured CPD would be appointed as a DFC project representative and guardian of Northern Ireland Public Procurement Policy and good practice on project management approach.
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2.3 In developing the public realm proposals a series of conflicting views emerged, in particular around the car parking proposals around the Courthouse which led to the Council reconsidering its original position in April and May 2017. This has consequently led to a review of the design options for the car parking arrangement within The Square. 2.4 Following the decision in May 2017 an independent traffic engineer has been appointed to complete a traffic impact assessment and road safety audit on the car parking around the Courthouse. The results of these assessments will be received later in September 2017. 2.5 A Planning application has not yet been lodged for the scheme. As part of this process, as a major application, it is a legislative requirement to have carried out a full community engagement exercise. This will require the full design proposals to be subject to that process. 3.0 Hillsborough Forest Project Update 3.1 No design team has been appointed to date, however following a procurement exercise The Paul Hogarth Company Ltd is the preferred bidder with the Most Economically Advantageous Tender. 3.2 At a recent Special Development Committee meeting Members approved the progression of Hillsborough Forest following the presentation of preferred options through an Outline Business Case. This approval was subject to input from Leisure Services and security of tenure. It was also agreed that the project should be taken forward on a phased approach in order to manage funding risks, ecology impact and other dependencies. 3.3 There is still a gap in the funding requirements to realise the whole of the scheme. 3.4 Land assembly and security of tenure is an issue with the Forestry Service with the Memorandum of Understanding still to be agreed. 3.5 The current water management is being tested for pollutants through Environmental Health Services to understand the extent it may be used as a water sports facility. 3.6 A car park is proposed for development adjacent to the Dark Walk. It is dependent of the lease agreements with Forest Service; NIEA and planning approval; suitable access arrangement agreed with HRP and the outcome of the final design options for the public realm works to The Square. 3.7 As part of the planning process, as a major application, it is a legislative requirement to have carried out a community engagement exercise. This will require the new proposals to be subject to that process with a desire to be consistent in our approach with other schemes in the Village. 4.0 Interdependencies 4.1 The main interdependencies that arise across the projects are: 1. Designs at Concept stage and the outcome of the development of all projects will impact on the achievement of relevant approvals.
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2. Car Park adjacent to Fort being developed in line with Public Realm works and considered in proposals by AFBI for access to their site. Range of issues to be resolved. Suitable terms being agreed for access to the Dark Walk from Historic Royal Palaces. 3. Hillsborough Forest project approval to be brought through to an investment decision with full business case approval to be accepted by the Leisure and Community Committee with a chosen preferred operating model. 4. Member agreement is required around final design options and then to need for these to be consulted upon across all projects. 5. Development of a Community Engagement framework because of the potential for Council reputational damage given the emerging conflicting community views. This will require stakeholder identification and engagement strategy sign off by the members. 6. Acceptance of the financial appraisal and risks arising from affordability limits being breached within the councils Investment proposals. 7. Emergency reinstatement to cater for Royal Palace visitations. 5.0 Next Steps 5.1 The next proposed steps to mitigate issues with the above interdependencies are: 1. Proposed approach to overall capital programme was agreed at Members Away Day. 2. Plan for car parking in Forest Park being developed in line with design options for Public Realm works. Strategic Car Parking review includes Hillsborough and may influence final proposed solution. 3. Presentation by Head of Economic Development to the September meeting of the Leisure & Community Development Committee. 4. Initial discussions held with Historic Royal Palaces regarding access to Dark Walk. Positive response but no willingness to formally agree at this stage. This issue will be revisited once design option at Courthouse is agreed. 5. Appointment of ICT for Forest Park awaits advice from counsel regarding a contractual issue on another project. Once appointed design development will be phased across the elements of the overall project and consulted at that time. 6. Meeting scheduled with Forest Service to progress tenure and lease agreements. Approach made to DAERA Permanent Secretary to consider. 7. Robust full business case for Public Realm Scheme being developed for consideration and approval. Application to DfC for funding support being developed. 8. Traffic Assessment and Road Safety Audit being completed by September 2017 for consideration at October meeting of Development Committee. This should agree the final design option for the scheme.
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6.0 Other Stakeholder Projects 6.1 Historic Royal Palaces The works contract has been awarded for the Castle renovations and associated ancillary car parking. The works are scheduled for completion in March 2019. HRP are represented on the Hillsborough Steering Group and as such are perceived as partisan. Emerging issues do however seem to be dealt with on an ongoing basis, but their offering is seen as a threat and not an opportunity by some of the business representatives across the village. HRP have recently acquired leasehold rights to the Courthouse, Dark Walk and Fort. It is proposed these assets form part of their animation of the visitor offering and are used as contingency areas for VIP and event car parking. The HRP project is considered as regionally significant and are proposing the erection of Brown Tourist Signs. HRP are anticipating an approach to the Council will be considered favourable and be part funded, which will be presented to Committee on receipt of request. 6.2 Department of Infrastructure (Rivers Agency) – Dam Upgrade Works Department of Infrastructure have dam upgrade proposals within the Forest which must precede the Council’s development proposals in this area. Atkins as project manager have provided an update to say that the Contractor is due to be appointed in September 2017 with works to be completed by end of March 2018. 6.3 Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI) Expansion Plans AFBI are developing and considering options to expand their facility at the rear of the Forest Estate and introduce a new access road. Their future proposals should be co- ordinated with the Council’s development plans for the forest. 6.4 PSNI/CCTV PSNI will also be a key stakeholder in assessing the impact and sequencing of the works for their own area plans. This may involve the incorporating of improved CCTV as part of an overall LCCC Community Safety Strategy. 7.0 Operational Requirements 7.1 There are a series of LCCC operational requirements and new opportunities which emerge should these projects proceed and require to be planned for throughout the delivery phases of all of these projects. These range from refuse collection, ‘In Bloom’ competitions, street cleansing, emergency planning and grounds maintenance. The new opportunities include testing of community and social enterprise delivery models. New bothy facilities to better service this end of the Council region and manage the operating model of choice.
4
8.0 Proposed Overall Programme Recommendations 8.1 In order to address the issues and interdependencies that arise the following proposed solutions are intended to address both the specific and collective impacts. - LCCC led projects are considered as a Mini Programme and good programme and project management are adopted for the projects. This Officer governance will develop agreed Terms of Reference and have appropriate personnel from each Directorate represented with stated roles. Typically the Programme Board would manage the risk, change control, project delivery, commissioning, funding management, project commercials, media, marketing and interdependencies. It would also have a brief to phase project development in line with other Village developments and events.
- Political governance is developed via a joint Development and Leisure Committee Meeting approach arranged in agreement with the respective Chairmen to oversee the progress of the proposals within Hillsborough at the appropriate time.
- Members adopt the engagement protocol outlined in Appendix 2 as a pilot for community engagement for physical regeneration projects. This will be both as part of the Planning engagement requirements for major applications and ensuring political sign off in determining the point of design freeze.
A full Consultation plan will be developed, in line with the new engagement protocol, prior to the next stage of consultations in Hillsborough. This will be reviewed and agreed by the Development Committee at a future meeting.
7.0 Documents Attached 7.1 Appendix 1: Summary of Interdependencies 7.2 Appendix 2: Pilot Community Engagement Framework for Physical Projects 7.3 Appendix 3: Project Deliverables in line with stage approach
5
APPENDIX 12 ED
Balmoral Show – 2017 Report
Background Members will recall at the June 2016 Development Committee it was agreed to ‘support a similar initiative for the 2017 Balmoral Show with a budget of £35,000 to be allocated from the City Promotion budget’. It was also agreed to offer this opportunity to businesses in the villages of Moira and Hillsborough, with the number of attractions exhibiting reduced to allow this.
Visit Lisburn and Castlereagh marquee The Visit Lisburn and Castlereagh marquee in 2017 was the same size as previous years (12m x 35m), with a professional shell scheme, graphics and lighting to showcase the best of the Lisburn City Centre, Moira and Hillsborough retail offering and Lisburn and Castlereagh leisure attractions. This year the show was extended to a 4th day, staged from Wednesday 10th May to Saturday 13th May inclusive and the visitor numbers reached an all- time high of 115,000.
Once again, the marquee location next to the entrance was optimal for creating awareness and maximising exposure. The marquee was heavily branded on the outside and inside, showcasing what was on offer with a ‘High Street’ shopping village highlighting 22 local retailers from Lisburn City Centre and villages of Moira and Hillsborough and 6 visitor attractions from the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.
The layout of the marquee was changed slightly to include a full “glass” wall to enable visitors to see into the marquee and encourage them to come in and have a look around that what was on offer. The glass was branded with the City for Life logo. A garden space was also created this year and decorated by Hillmount Garden Centre with plants and furniture and proved to be a very welcome space for visitors and traders to enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Other activities Whilst the marquee was the show piece throughout the four days of the Balmoral Show, other activities took place surrounding the event.
These marketing activities included:
Website links – all accommodation requests were handled by the Visitor Information Centres at Lisburn and Hillsborough. A link was created from the Balmoral Show official website to the www.visitlisburncastlereagh.com website for accommodation, with staff following up the availability from industry on a regular basis. The priority is always to keep trade in the local accommodation providers.
Official Launch event – this created an opportunity for the Elected Members and Officers to liaise in an informal environment with visitors and business owners in the marquee. Invitations went out to all business databases, including the hospitality industry.
Meet and Greet – Visitor Information Centre staff were on hand as ‘Meet and Greet’ Officers at Lisburn Railway Station. This encouraged people using public transport to come into the City Centre and to visit the marquee when they arrived at the Balmoral Show. Advice, suggestions and directions were all available to visitors alongside collateral literature being distributed.
Surveys – surveys were completed in the marquee with analysis attached as Appendix A. Participants were also surveyed and the results are attached as Appendix B.
Response for traders Traders and attractions were allocated space within the Visit Lisburn and Castlereagh marquee and the following attended:
Ballance House Little French Barn Lagan Valley LeisurePlex McCalls Christoff Drumbo Park Greyhound Stadium Paul McGlade Photography Reach EPS Paparazzi Ulster Grand Prix Hillsborough Castle Shannon’s Jewellers Phonehouse Lisburn 98FM Rosies Emporium Smyth Patterson Taylors Ice-Cream Lyons Karting Debonair Menswear Hillmount Garden Centre Welcome area (Visitor Information) Sam Baird Optician People 1st Style House Belleek Living Flower Boutique Roger Wilson Interior Design Dundonald International Ice Bowl Council Fair Trade Programme Emma Johnston Interior Design Brown Bean Stepping Stones
A survey for the traders was completed shortly after Balmoral Show finished with the findings attached at Appendix B. Again, all those trading found the experience of participating in the Visit Lisburn and Castlereagh marquee very worthwhile. It would be expected that even more interest in the initiative could be generated for 2018.
Costs A summary breakdown is attached below:
Expenditure Marquee and flooring £5,970 Shell scheme and fit out £17,050 Promotion and other £2,430 PA system & radio £475 Site Fee £3,500 Electric & lighting £4,500 Launch event £440 Expenses £180 Visitor Services Staffing £1,500 Garden space £1,450 Additional Tickets £632 Total £38,126
Income Traders contributions £5,400
Net Cost £32,726
Conclusion Business was up for the participating traders whilst others (such as the attractions) found the exercise a good tool for promoting their facilities. Visitors found it useful to find out more about Lisburn City Centre and indeed some of the hidden gems within the Council area.
By supporting this initiative the Council received positive publicity and has forged even better relationships with RUAS, traders, attractions, restaurants and event organisers. A similar initiative should be considered for May 2018.
Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the content of the attached report and agree to support a similar initiative for 2018 with a maximum budget of £35,000 allocated from the 2018 City Promotion allocation.
Andrew Kennedy Tourism Development Manager
18 August 2017
APPENDIX 12 Appendix A
2017 Balmoral Show Visitor Survey
Q1 How did you find out about the Lisburn Castlereagh Marquee?
Passing by
TV advert
Visitor Information...
Social Media
Newspaper
Radio
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Q2 What do you think of the Lisburn Castlereagh Marquee?
Excellent
Good
Satisfactory
Poor
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Q3 How do you think the Lisburn Castlereagh Marquee could be improved?
Bigger marquee
Improved layout
More samples
Better choice of stands
Increased advertising
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Q4 How far did you travel to attend the show?
50+ miles
20 - 50 miles
10 - 20 miles
Under 10 miles
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Q5 Who are you here with today?
Friends
Family
Partner
Colleagues
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Q6 When did you last visit Lisburn City Centre?
Within the last 2 weeks
Within the last month
1 - 2 months
2 - 6 months
6 - 12 months
1 year or more
I have never visited Lisb...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Q7 When you last visited Lisburn City Centre what was it for?
Shopping
Dining
Event
Entertainment or Leisure
Workplace
I have never visited Lisb...
Other (please specify)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Q8 How many times would you visit Lisburn City Centre in a year?
Never
1 - 10
10 - 30
30 - 50
50 - 100
100+
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Balmoral Show 2017 – Traders Survey APPENDIX 12 Appendix B
We thought it was beneficial to allow visitors to see stands and also created more light in marquee for exhibitors.
We were happy with where we were positioned at the show and the tent was very bright due to the glass panel. It is difficult for us to give an opinion on how the glass panel affected business for those beside it though.
This was a great idea as it let people walking by see in and then come in if interested,
I thought this was a great idea so people could see in etc.
Although we did not require storage facilities, a larger common space for storage/making tea/coffee may be useful.
Thought it was excellent, some more varied might be good.
Just maintain the high standard of preparation and excellent support for the traders in future years!
Maybe a joint social media campaign running up to the event and during with all traders in the marquee leveraging their own Facebook/twitter/instragram accounts, possibly some giveaways during the show, promoting the traders within the marquee?
We would be happy to pay more money for the show as we understand that if we were to do the show on our own and based on the price of other shows we do the Balmoral is very well priced.
Happy with this year’s price, good value for money.
The same price as 2017 the cost is ok as a small company in the Marquee, it would be hard to pay more. APPENDIX 13(a) ED
City of Lisburn and Castlereagh 2017 Pipe Band Championship - Report
Background Members will recall at the April 2017 Development Committee it was agreed to host the 2017 City of Lisburn and Castlereagh Pipe Band Championships in Moira Demesne.
It was agreed that a contribution of £12,000 be paid to RSPNA (NI) towards the hosting costs for this event, with additional technical support of £3,000.
The Event The event attracted 45 bands and 45 drum majors, with approximately 3,500 people on site though out the day. Around 1,600 cars were parked in Moira Demesne through the day with an additional 8 coaches.
The bands came from all over Northern Ireland and one band from Auckland, New Zealand – this was partly to do with the World Championships being staged in Glasgow the week after.
On the day the site was heavily branded with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council banners and there was a hospitality marquee for members, judges and VIPs to enjoy refreshments provided by RSPBANI. The tourism exhibition trailer was also on site for the duration of the event, assisting visitors with their enquiries and distributing literature on the area and advertising upcoming events. A number of other retail and hospitality traders were also on site.
Feedback from the local businesses has been positive, especially with the hospitality sector having a good trading day on the day of the Pipe Band Championship.
Before the Event Prior to the event LCCC promoted the Championship on our websites, Social Media and in local press – Ulster Star and Newsletter. RSPBA (NI) also promoted the event though newsletters, calendar of events, and their website.
Copy of Advert used
Screen shots from Social Media
We held a photo shoot at Moira Demesne which was picked up by the local press and the picture appeared in the Ulster Star.
Response from Participants & Spectators LCCC surveyed over 100 participants and spectators during the event with all responses being positive. Participants found the event very enjoyable and the majority said they would attend this again in our area and recommend it to family and friends.
Costs
The cost of technical support was overspent this year due to increased costs for security and stewarding. We had hoped that all equipment could be delivered to site on Saturday morning (including the hospitality marquee) however this was not possible due to other commitments from the suppliers. Therefore security was required overnight to protect onsite equipment and marquee - we have had vandalism the night before Pipe Band Championships in the past. The budget for technical support was £3,000.
A summary breakdown of actual costs is attached below:
Expenditure Full page adverts in Ulster Star and Newsletter £500 Marquee for hospitality £600 Photographer £300 Security and stewarding £1,825 Equipment Hire £625 Staff costs £350
Total £4,200 NB: The staff costs are an estimate as they haven’t been processed through the system at the time this report was compiled.
Conclusion By hosting this event the Council received positive publicity and has forged better relationships with RSPBANI. Additional bed-nights were reported from the local accommodation providers around the event and feedback was positive from local traders who experienced increased footfall.
A similar event should be considered for August 2018.
Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the content of the attached report and agree to support a similar proposal to bid for a 2018 Pipe Band Championship, with a slightly increased budget of £4,500 allocated towards technical support.
Andrew Kennedy Tourism Development Manager
18 August 2017
APPENDIX 13(b) ED
Pipe Band Championships 2017 – participants feedback
APPENDIX 14 ED
APPENDIX 15(a) ED
NORTHERN IRELAND BUSINESS START UP PROGRAMME (NIBSUP)
UPDATE REPORT
FOR DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING
1. The Letter of Offer has been received from Invest NI and has been signed, sealed, and returned. 2. The Collaborative Legal Agreements between all 11 Councils have also been agreed, signed and gone through all 11 Councils. 3. The cost of this contract award to all the Councils over the period of 3.5 years is £4,620,646 4. 80% of these eligible costs fully funded with the 20% balance being met by the Council The value to LCCC is 8.8% of the contract award or £406,617 over the 3.5 years. The split of the £406,617 being received is £132,000 for marketing and Communications £28,873 for enquiry handling/call centre £245,744 for programme delivery (meetings and 1:1 mentoring) It is expected that this will deliver 854 business plans equivalent to 521 jobs. This equates to a cost per job of £779. 5. There are 4 discrete elements to the procurement and eventual operation of NIBSUP a. Programme Delivery b. Marketing and Communications c. Enquiry Handling d. Management Information System e. 6. Programme Delivery This was awarded to Enterprise Northern Ireland, the umbrella organisation for the Enterprise Agencies, on the 18th July 2017. They are due to start full delivery from Monday 04th September.
7. Marketing and Communications This has been scored and evaluated and a recommendation made to award. This recommendation is going for full Council approval on the 22nd August. Assuming there is no legal challenge it is anticipated that this will be operational from 12th September.
8. Enquiry Handling This has been scored, evaluated and the recommendation to award has already been made. The tender evaluation scoring is attached for noting purposes only. Assuming there is no legal challenge it is anticipated that this will be awarded on Friday 25th August.
9. Management Information System This has being developed by BCC and is being jointly funded by all 11 Councils.
User testing has been completed for both Council staff and ENI users. Call centre staff will be trained once the enquiry handling has been awarded and the system will be fully live from Monday 04th September in line with the delivery contract. APPENDIX 15(b) ED Tender Report for the Appointment of a suitably qualified organisation to provide Enquiry Handling for the Northern Ireland Business Start Up Programme (NIBSUP).
1.0 Introduction
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council is acting on behalf of the 11 Northern Ireland Councils to appoint a Contractor to deliver a new Northern Ireland Business Start Up Programme (NIBSUP).
1.01 The Tender Information was managed by the Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) through the eTendersNI portal with a publication date of 14th June 2017, and a closing date for submissions of 18th July 2017.
2.0 Tender Opening by CPD
Coordinator and Opening Staff PO/OS1: Theresa Conway
3.0 Tender Evaluation
3.01 The Evaluation Panel comprising Martin Clark, Panel Chair (Business Development Manager, Causeway Coast and Glens Council), Clare Magill (Head of Economic Development, Ards and North Down Council), Malachy Gribbin (Economic Development Officer Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council) and supported by Theresa Conway (Procurement Manager, CPD) met at 11.30am on Wednesday 9th August for consensus scoring of the tender submissions after individual scoring had taken place.
3.02 The following four organisations returned submissions using the e-TendersNI tender portal:
Ref No. Economic Operator 1 LaCreme Communications 2 Wize Consulting Limited 3 Social Enterprise Direct 4 Teleperformance Limited
4.0 Tender Scoring
4.01 Tenders were evaluated using the agreed criteria and weightings as set out in the issued Tender documents.
4.02 The services proposed by each tenderer and the relative Costs were evaluated and scored in order to determine the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) in relation to Quality/Cost, as outlined below:
Economic Operator Total Score Rank Fail/Pass Teleperformance Limited 94.60 1 pass Social Enterprise Direct 38.40 2 fail Wize Consulting Limited 22.80 2 fail LaCreme Communications 0.0 2 fail
For information LaCreme failed the eligibility criteria check and therefore did not proceed to the next stage For clarity both Social Enterprise and Wize failed within the technical envelopes
4.03 It was recommended that LCCC agree with the CPD Evaluation Report which has been retrospectively submitted to the Development Committee of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, with the Preferred Contractor identified as being Teleperformance Limited.
The Council, in partnership with CPD, issued (14th August) a letter of intent to the preferred contractor and a regret letter to the non-preferred contractors.
There was a 10 day `stand still` period to allow for any challenge to this award with anticipated award being 25th August.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Council notes the CPD Evaluation report as outlined above and also that the contract has been awarded subject to no legal challenge of this award.
APPENDIX 15(c) ED
NILGA APPENDIX 16 ED EVENTS
Broadband: Local Needs, Local Solutions & NILGA Full Members Meeting
Craigavon Civic Centre 66 Lakeview Road Craigavon BT64 1AL
AGENDA
9.30 Tea / Coffee
10.00 Welcome Councillor Gareth Wilson, Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council
10.05 NILGA Full Members Update & Event Overview - Ald Arnold Hatch, NILGA President
10.20 Regulatory & Funding Framework - Department for Economy - (Representative TBC)
10.35 Northern Ireland broadband in reality - Shane Campbell, ICBAN
10.50 Strategic Context & Case Studies • Strategic Context - Strategic Investment Board • Business growth through broadband - Case studies • Product innovation through broadband – Kraydel • Operating without broadband - McElmeel Mobility
11.30 Tea / Coffee
11.50 Local Government: Driving the Solutions (Expert Panel)
12.30 Next Steps: Policy & Practice
12.40 Close & Lunch
FREE event open to ALL Elected Members and Officers, numbers are limited so please register online by the 20th September at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/NILGAMeeting
PLEASE NOTE: NILGA Full Members should confirm their attendance using the above link.
For booking enquiries, please contact - Kathryn Tweedie, ND Events [email protected]
All other enquiries should be directed to Kelsey McQuaid at NILGA [email protected]
Northern Ireland Local Government Association Bradford Court, Upper Galwally, Castlereagh, BT8 6RB tel: 028 9079 8972 web: www.nilga.org twitter: @NI_LGA NILGA - the voice of local government Disclaimer: The Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) endeavours to ensure that the information contained within our Website, Policies and other communications is up to date and correct. We do not, however, make any representation that the information will be accurate, current, complete, uninterrupted or error free or that any information or other material accessible from or related to NILGA is free of viruses or other harmful components. NILGA accepts no responsibility for any erroneous information placed by or on behalf of any user or any loss by any person or user resulting from such information. APPENDIX 17(a) ED
Innovate | Create | Grow
Entrepreneurs Network Schedule 2017 / 2018
Topic: High Trust Networking Speakers: Sean Weafer, Professional Business Network Speaker Date: Thursday 28th September 2017 Venue: Island Hall, Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn Time: 8:00am – 9:30am
Sean Weafer is a best-selling business author and international speaker who helps business owners and managers build high trust and influence with their customers and colleagues. He asserts that ‘people buy you because of how you make them feel’. Whether you are positioning an idea to a peer, a new client, a team member or your board – trust and influence is the key to getting everything you want. Within his presentation, Sean will explore some of the 7 keys that will help you win and retain high value clients. He will also share some practical networking and referral tips which are designed to deliver real business growth.
Topic: E-Mail Marketing for Lead Generation: A Practical Guide Speaker: Stuart McLean, Table 59 Date: Wednesday 25th October 2017 Venue: Conference Room, House of Vic-Ryn, Lisburn Time: 8:00am – 9:30am
Email marketing is an essential tool for growing your market in the fast paced world of internet business. Stuart McLean from table59 has over 20 years’ experience in Internet marketing and in this seminar he will be using case studies to show how you can deliver real results and generate sales using email marketing. Done correctly, it offers open, conversational, and interactive communications and gets your marketing message in front of your audience.
Topic: Sales Acceleration: Acquire and Grow New Client relationships Speaker: James Coyle, JCR Network Services Date: Thursday 16th November 2017 Venue: Inspire Business Centre, Castlereagh Time: 8:00am – 9:30am
How do you create demand in an ever-changing market? James Coyle is an experienced and highly successful business director in the International Manufacturing, Financial Services and Retail sectors. In today’s seminar he will discuss the modern day sales process and look at changes you can make to improve your sales performance and bottom line.
Topic: Cyber Security: Is Your Business Safe Online? Speakers: Peter Brown, EOS Systems Detective Constable Stephen Crooks, Economic Crime Unit – PSNI Date: Thursday 25th January 2018
Venue: Cherry Room, Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn Time: 8:00am – 9:30am
Recent press coverage has highlighted that cyber fraud can cause severe financial loss or reputational damage, no matter how big or small your business. IT Security Consultant, Peter Brown from EOS Systems, will identify potential online risks, help you formulate a strategy to ensure you are protecting your confidential data and give you tips on how best to respond to cyber-attacks. Detective Constable Crooks from the PSNI’s Crime Unit will be giving first hand experiences of Cyber Attacks in Northern Ireland.
Topic: LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT Date: Thursday 8th February 2018 Venue: Island Hall, Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn Time: 8:00am – 10:00am
Taking place as part of the Management and Leadership Month. How do businesses lead, compete and win in the information age? Our accomplished keynote speaker is at the cutting edge of technology and will discuss what it takes to succeed as local businesses move through the fourth industrial revolution.
Topic: Budget and Finance Top Tax Tips Speaker: Stephen Houston, GMcG Date: Thursday 22nd March 2018 Venue: Lisburn Enterprise Organisation, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn Time: 8:00am – 9:30am
Join us for this breakfast seminar hosted by Stephen Houston from GMcG in Lisburn Enterprise Organisation. From personal tax to corporate tax; planning the year ahead and pursuing child benefit; an overview of the budget and along with tips, advice and the latest news making your tax digital.
Topic: NETWORKING: Creating Connections- Social Media & Networking Speakers: Louise Brogan, Social Bee Andrew Dobbin, The Business Mindset Date: Thursday 26th April 2018 Venue: Cherry Room, Lagan Valley Island Time: 8:00am – 9:30am
In business it is important to create strong networking connections to ensure your get favourable results. Louise Brogan from Social Bee NI, social media consulting and training company will be discussing all things social networking. Louise will be
followed by Andrew Dobbin, who will be discussing how to cultivate relationships to deliver results in the future.
Topic: Selling - Influence and Persuasion Date: Thursday 31st May 2018 Venue: Please note: Hillsborough Castle is closed for refurbishment – a new venue to be sought. Time: 5:00pm – 7:00pm
In this last event in the networking schedule we will be joining with the Female Entrepreneurs Network to hear from a highly successful entrepreneur – a global thought-leader who is one of the world’s leading motivational speaker on the topic of sales. His keynote talks have inspired thousands of businesses people to engage in better relationships with clients and increase sales.
Second Last page:
The Entrepreneurs Network is a free networking and discussion breakfast forum for small to medium sized businesses ( SME’s) based in Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC). These events offer practical information aimed at addressing key business issues and promoting local business development. Spotlight sessions are held after our keynote speaker has completed their presentation and Q&A section. These two minute slots give any two volunteers the chance to promote their business to the network with the optional use of visual aids.
To apply for any of these events contact Gina Biggerstaff at 02892 509381 Or email [email protected]
For more information please visit: www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk Facebook: InvestLisburn Twitter: invest_lccc
Last Page:
Innovate | Create | Grow
Start Up Growth Skills Investment
Contact our team:
Hazel King, Economic Development Manager: [email protected] (028) 9250 9484
Patricia Mallon, Economic Development Officer: [email protected] (028) 9250 9383
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council and its local enterprise partners working to collaborate and synergise with SME’s in the council area.
*LOGOS AT BOTTOM OF PAGE – CHECK IF THESE ARE STILL ALL REQUIRED
APPENDIX 17 (b) ED
Innovate | Create | Grow
Female Entrepreneurs Network Schedule 2017 / 2018
*Pages 2+3*
Topic: Networking for Businesses: How to use LinkedIn to Grow Your Business Speaker: Niamh Taylor, digital 24 Date: Thursday 12th October 2017 Venue: Inspire Business Centre, Dundonald Time: 9:30am – 11:00am
LinkedIn is the leading social media network for professionals and businesses. Having the right LinkedIn profile will help you identify target customers and get your brand noticed. Niamh Taylor is a multi-award-winning digital marketing expert and owner of Digital24; Niamh will share detailed knowledge, experience and best practice examples to help you become more confident in using the tools available to help you manage and monitor your LinkedIn activity.
Topic: Female Entrepreneurship Bootcamp in Partnership with Women in Business Date: Thursday 18th January 2018 Venue: Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn Time: 9:30am – 11:00am
Back by popular demand. After the success of last year’s event we are offering women the opportunity to hear from entrepreneurial role models, join practical workshops and build their confidence.
Topic: Empowerment ‘Making it Happen’ Speaker: Helen Allen, House of Colour Gwynneth Cockcroft, DCP Strategic Communication Ltd Date: Thursday 8th March 2018 Venue: House of Vic-Ryn Time: 9:30am – 11:00am
Join us on International Women’s day for a morning of inspiration and motivation.
Helen Allen from House of colour will help you discover how you could find it much easier to meet new people, express yourself, present in meetings and even close the deal when you are looking and feeling your best.
Gwyneth Cockcroft, Founder of DCP communications agency has been at the forefront of public relations for more than 30 years specialising in reputation management, planning PR and crisis management. Dealing with a variety of prestigious clients including Tesco, Tayto, Barclays Bank & InterTrade Ireland, she will draw on her extensive experience to deliver her story on ‘making it happen’.
Topic: TBC Date: Thursday 31st May 2018 Venue: Please note: Hillsborough Castle is closed for refurbishment – a new venue to be sought. Time: 5:00pm – 7:00pm
In this last event in the networking schedule we will be joining with the Entrepreneurs Network to hear from a highly successful entrepreneur – a global thought-leader who is one of the world’s leading motivational speaker on the topic of sales. His keynote talks have inspired thousands of businesses people to engage in better relationships with clients and increase sales.
The Female Entrepreneurs Network is a free networking and discussion breakfast forum in the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) area for business women. These events offer practical information aimed at addressing key business issues and promoting local business development.
Spotlight sessions are held after our keynote speaker has completed their presentation and Q&A section. These two minute slots give any two volunteers the chance to promote their business to the network with the optional use of visual aids.
To apply for any of these events contact Gina Biggerstaff at 02892 509381 Or email [email protected]
For more information please visit: www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk Facebook: InvestLisburn Twitter: invest_lccc
Last Page:
Innovate | Create | Grow
Start Up Growth Skills Investment
Contact our team:
Hazel King, Economic Development Manager: [email protected] (028) 9250 9484
Patricia Mallon, Economic Development Officer: [email protected] (028) 9250 9383
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council and its local enterprise partners working to collaborate and synergise with SME’s in the council area.
*LOGOS AT BOTTOM OF PAGE – CHECK IF THESE ARE STILL ALL REQUIRED
Economic Development - April 2017 to March 2018 Month:- Jul-17
Department Annual Budget Total Actual Total Budget to date & Committed Variance Expenditure:
Development 5,357,013 936,259 832,071 (104,188) Community Planning 162,520 31,707 22,603 (9,104) Total Expenditure: 5,519,533 967,966 854,674 (113,292)
Income:
Development (2,801,603) (252,952) (257,357) (4,405) Community Planning (32,400) (10,796) (6,000) 4,796 Total Income: (2,834,003) (263,748) (263,357) 391
Overall Net Position:
Development 2,555,410 683,307 574,714 (108,593) Community Planning 130,120 20,911 16,603 (4,308) Total Net Overall Position 2,685,530 704,218 591,317 (112,901)