5 May 2016
Chairman: Alderman S P Porter Vice-Chairman: Councillor A McIntyre Aldermen: W A Leathem and J Tinsley Councillors: N Anderson, B Bloomfield MBE, R Butler, J Gallen, A Givan, J Gray MBE, V Kamble, H Legge, T Morrow, S Skillen and R Walker
Ex Officio The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor R T Beckett Deputy Mayor, Councillor A Redpath
The Monthly Meeting of the Leisure & Community Development Committee will be held in the Chestnut Room, Island Civic Centre, The Island, Lisburn, on Wednesday, 11 May 2016, at 5.30pm, for the transaction of business on the undernoted agenda. Hot food will be available from 5.00 pm in Lighters Restaurant. 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 Leisure & Community Development Committee held on 5 April 2016 (Copy Attached)
4 Presentation by Sector Matters in regard to the Draft Community Support & Development Strategy 2016 - 2019
5 Report from Director of Leisure & Community Services
5.1 Housing Liaison Group: Formation and Draft Terms of Reference 5.2 Department of Finance & Personnel: Consultation on Enhanced Sport and Recreation Rate Relief – Unlicensed Community Amateur Sports Clubs 5.3 Capital Projects: Dundonald International Ice Bowl 5.4 Departmental Budget Report 5.5 The Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration Grants 5.6 Culture and Identity Grants 2016 5.7 Museum Education Programme: Playful Museums 5.8 Delisting of the Crimean Cannon, Castle Gardens
5.9 Report from Head of Service (Cultural and Community Services)
5.9.1 2016-2019 Community Development Strategy 5.9.2 Presentation of the Council’s 2016-2018 Arts Strategy 5.9.3Community Development Training Bursary 5.9.42016-2017 Community Festival Fund 5.9.5 2016/2017 Closure Dates – Island Arts Centre and Community Centres 5.9.6 Cinema Advertising Arrangements 5.9.7 Lisburn & Castlereagh Youth Council 5.9.8 Correspondence from the Department for Social Development – Additional Advice Provision 5.9.9 Children’s Arts Festival
5.10 Report from Head of Service (Parks and Amenities)
5.10.1 Loan of Council Equipment 5.10.2 Pitches Audit and Strategy 5.10.3 Harmony Hill Community Group 5.10.4 Site Meeting Report – Aghalee Playing Fields 5.10.5 Site Meeting Report – Stockdam Glen / Duncan’s Dam 5.10.6 Ulster Grand Prix – Letter of Offer 5.10.7 The Pollinator Plan 2015-2020 5.10.8 Carryduff Greenway 5.10.9 Parks and Open Spaces Strategy 5.10.10 Biodiversity Project in Moat Park in Conjunction with Dundonald Primary School 5.10.11 Outdoor Recreation NI 5.10.12 Playboard NI 5.10.13 Knockbreda FC 5.10.14 South Antrim Combine’s Twelfth Celebrations 2016 5.10.15 Ulster Hospital – Car Parking 5.10.16 Official Opening of the New Baseball Diamond at Hydebank Playing Fields 5.10.17 Moat Park – Wayleave Access Across the Park
5.11 Report from Head of Service (Sports Services)
5.11.1 Newtownards & District Primary Schools FA Team: Request for Financial Assistance to Attend 2016 Foyle Cup 5.11.2 Collection of Green Fees and Ancillary Services at Aberdelghy Golf Course 5.11.3 Potential Multi-Sport Facility Development Laurelhill Sportszone 5.11.4 Castlereagh Hills Golf Club – Helping Hands Autism CharityDay 5.11.5 Coach Parking – Lagan Valley Leisureplex 5.11.6 2016 Assembly Election – Lagan Valley Leisureplex Count Venue 5.11.7 2015/2016 Income Generation Lagan Valley Leisureplex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl
6 Confidential Business “In Committee”
6.1 Income Share Agreement Between Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council and FX-Force Group Ltd (Lough Moss Centre) Confidential for reason of information relating to financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information) 6.2 Lease Agreement Between Clip N Climb Ltd and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council (Relating to Premises at Dundonald International Ice Bowl – Extension of Lease) Confidential for reason of information relating to financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information) 6.3 Dromara Multi-Use Games Area: Surface Replacement Tender – Additional Works Confidential for reason of information relating to financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information) 6.4 Barbour Play Area Refurbishment: Consideration of Tender Report for Refurbishment Works Confidential for reason of information relating to financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information) 6.5 Hillsborough Multi-Use Games Area: Tender Report for Resurfacing Works Confidential for reason of information relating to financial or business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information) 6.6 Exclusions Confidential for reason of information relating to individuals 6.7 Correspondence from the Somme Association Confidential for reason of information relating to individuals
Members are requested to access the confidential report on Sharepoint under the Confidential Folder – Leisure & Community Development. 7 Any other Business
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To: Members of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council LCD 05.04.16
LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL
Minutes of the proceedings of the Leisure and Community Development Committee Meeting of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, held in the Island Civic Centre, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, on Tuesday, 5 April 2016, at 4.00 pm
PRESENT Alderman S P Porter (Chairman)
The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor R T Beckett
Aldermen: W A Leathem J Tinsley
Councillors: N Anderson, B Bloomfield MBE, J Gallen, A Givan, J Gray MBE, V Kamble, H Legge, A McIntyre, T Morrow, S Scott, R Walker
OTHER MEMBER Councillor O Gawith
IN ATTENDANCE Director of Leisure & Community Services Head of Service (Cultural & Community Services) Head of Service (Parks & Amenities) Head of Service (Sports Services) Capital Projects Officer Committee Secretary
Commencement of Meeting
The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting of the Leisure and Community Development Committee.
1. Apologies
It was agreed to accept apologies from Councillor R Butler.
2. Declarations of Interest
The Chair 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 to complete Declaration of Interest forms in this regard, which had been provided at the meeting. The following declarations of interest were made:
Councillor T Morrow – Items 4.1 and 5.5.3 – on the basis that he sold the land to the Council and currently rents some land from the Council The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor R T Beckett – Item 5.6.8 – on the basis that the Mary Peters Trust is the Mayor’s charity Alderman S P Porter – Item 5.6.7 – on the basis that he is a member of the Public Health Agency
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3. Minutes of the Leisure and Community Development Committee Meeting held on 5 March 2016
It was agreed that the minutes of the Leisure and Community Development Committee meeting held on 1 March 2016, as adopted at the meeting of Council held on 22 March 2016, be confirmed and signed.
4 Deputations
4.1 Presentation from Representatives from Otium Leisure Consultancy re Audit Analysis and Draft Pitches Strategy
Members received a presentation from Mr Tony Morrison and Ms Siobhan Poulter from Otium Leisure Consultancy in respect of the Audit Analysis and Draft Pitches Strategy.
Following the presentation the Consultants responded to a number of questions from Members, following which it was agreed to note the presentation from Otium Leisure Consultancy in respect of the Audit Analysis and Draft Pitches Strategy and to revisit the subject at the next Committee meeting once Members had an opportunity to absorb the content.
5 Report from the Director of Leisure & Community Services
It was proposed by Alderman W A Leathem, seconded by Councillor A McIntyre and agreed that the report and recommendations from the Director of Leisure & Community Services be adopted, subject to any decisions recorded below.
Items for Noting
5.1 Departmental Rolling Absenteeism Report
Members noted the information tabled in relation to Departmental absenteeism in the period 1 April 2015 to 31 January 2016.
5.2 Estates Strategy
Members noted the update in respect of the Estates Strategy work programme and information tabled. The Director of Leisure & Community Services advised that the overall Estates Strategy incorporated an Estates Strategy, Condition Survey and Energy Survey. It was also planned to carry out field work and a workplace study to support the development of the strategy, which was scheduled to take 32 weeks, with a completion date in early October 2016.
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5.3 Departmental Budget Report
Members noted the budget report for the period 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016, setting out the position as at 31 January 2016.
5.4 Report from Head of Service (Cultural & Community Services)
It was agreed that the report and recommendations of the Head of Service (Cultural & Community Services) be adopted, subject to any decisions recorded below.
Items for Decision
5.4.1 Presentation of the Council’s 2016-2018 Community Development Strategy
Members were reminded that the Council had engaged the services of Sector Matters to ascertain stakeholder needs in shaping and informing the Council Community Development Strategy 2016-2018. The plans were now nearing completion and Members were asked to receive a short presentation from Sector Matters at the May Committee meeting.
It was agreed to receive a presentation from Sector Matters in respect of the Council’s 2016-2018 Community Development Strategy at the Committee meeting in May.
5.4.2 IPB Pride of Place 2016
Members noted correspondence from Co-Operation Ireland, seeking nominations for the 2016 IPB Pride of Place competition, at a cost of £500 per application for consideration and presentation at an awards ceremony in November 2016. The closing date for nominations was 6 May 2016.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council decline to forward nominations for the 2016 IPB Price of Place competition.
5.4.3 Review of Bonfire Management Programme
Members were provided with background information on the former Castlereagh Bonfire Management programme which had aimed to reduce adverse impacts of bonfires during the July period. However, while the scheme had been successful, some aspects could have caused conflict and liability issues in terms of the Council’s facilitation role.
Members noted the report, and as Option 3 therein was consistent with the Council’s previous decision to channel requests for support for community or family events from community groups through the Community Festival Fund, it was agreed to recommend to Council that arrangements progress on this basis.
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Items for Noting
5.4.4 Young Artist of the Year Award
Members noted that one application for the Young Artist of the Year award had been received by the closing date of 26 February 2016. Following assessment, the panel had recommended the award of £1,000 to Wendy Ward to assist with the cost of exhibiting her porcelain lighting range at an international trade show in London in July 2016.
5.5 Report from Head of Service (Parks and Amenities)
It was agreed that the report and recommendations of the Head of Service (Parks and Amenities) be adopted, subject to any decisions recorded below.
Items for Decision
5.5.1 Grant Aid to Third-Party Organisations 2016-2017
Members were provided with details of payments due to third-party organisations, in line with provision in the Council’s financial estimates for 2016-2017, subject to either acceptance of a formal Letter of Offer from the Council or a Service Level Agreement setting out the conditions of the financial assistance. The following payments were listed in the report:
Lagan Valley Regional Park - £41,000 Belfast Hills Trust Partnership - £17,620 Lough Neagh Partnership - £3,500 Lough Neagh Rescue - £1,750 Voluntary Services Lisburn (Environmental Squad) - £28,500
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve grant aid payments to third-party organisations 2016-2017 as outlined in the report from the Head of Service (Parks and Amenities).
5.5.2 Kilmakee Activity Centre
Members noted that, prior to expiry of the lease on land leased from the NIHE and comprising the Kilmakee Activity Centre, an anomaly had been identified on the Land Asset Map. The former Lisburn City Council had contacted the NIHE to find a resolution and officers had sought an LPS valuation for the encroachment and the freehold of the playpark. Members further noted that both parcels of land were marked on plans appended to the report from the Head of Service.
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Following discussion, it was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the Freehold purchase of the lands shown on the appended plans on the following basis:
The ‘L’-shaped portion of land at a valuation of £12,750 to rectify the encroachment; The playpark at a valuation of £20,000.
5.5.3 Pitches Strategy
The presentation from Otium Consultants in respect of the Audit and the Draft Playing Pitches Strategy had been received earlier in the meeting.
5.5.4 Play Park Opening Times
Members were reminded that protective gates had been installed at the Johnston Park play area in Glenavy, following antisocial activity. Following a review, the following opening times were suggested:
1 April to 31 August - 0930-1900 hours 1 September to 31 March – 0930-1700 hours
The timings would be reviewed periodically in light of the antisocial behaviour in the area.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the revised opening / closing times for the Johnston Park play area, Glenavy, as outlined in the report from the Head of Service (Parks and Amenities).
5.5.5 Ulster Grand Prix Working Group
Members were asked to nominate three Members to sit with the Mayor on the 2016 Ulster Grand Prix (UGP) Working Group, which was tasked with meeting with representatives of the DMCC / UGP Committee to ensure the smooth organisation of the event.
It was agreed to recommend to Council that, for the remainder of the Council term, the nominees to the UGP Working Group be the Mayor and Leisure & Community Development Committee Chair of the day, Alderman J Tinsley and Councillor P Catney.
5.5.6 Request to Rent Car Park Spaces at Hydebank
Members were asked to consider a request from a business located adjacent to Hydebank Playing Fields to rent 25 car park spaces during working hours Monday to Friday. The option of a reciprocal agreement would also be explored to alleviate parking issues on Saturday mornings.
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It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the request from Caldwell Consulting Engineers Ltd to rent 25 car park spaces at Hydebank Playing Fields, and that Council officers obtain a valuation in this regard.
5.5.7 Mayor’s Parade and Family Fun Day
Members were asked to consider whether to continue the practice in the former Lisburn City Council to donate the proceeds of rental fees from the fun fair, food and non-food traders at the Mayor’s Parade and Family Fun Day to the Mayor’s charity.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the donation of the proceeds of rental fees from the fun fair, food and non-food traders at the Mayor’s Parade and Family Fun Day to the Mayor’s charity.
5.5.8 Request for Use of Moira Demesne
Members noted a request for the free use of Moira Demesne for a fundraising event for Water for Life on 9 September 2016 to erect a marquee for 400-450 guests on the football pitches, it being further noted that any scheduled matches for that weekend would need to be relocated.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the request for free use of Moira Demesne for a fundraising event for Water for Life on 9 September 2016, including the erection of a marquee for 400-450 guests on the football pitches.
Items for Noting
5.5.9 UEFA Championships
Arising from the previous request from Members, the Committee was asked to consider options for the public screening of the forthcoming Northern Ireland fixtures of the UEFA Championship. Members were advised that to date five councils had decided not to screen the games and five councils were undeclared.
The Head of Service (Parks & Amenities) provided Members with a verbal update report arising from his investigations into the feasibility of staging a screening of fixtures, including his discussions with the PSNI. Following discussion, it was agreed to recommend that the Council approve hosting the screening of one fixture involving the Northern Ireland team at the UEFA Championships 2016, which would be led by Leisure & Community Services but with the assistance of Economic Development. Members noted that there was no provision in the 2016/2017 Financial Estimates for this
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expenditure and that the Head of Service would provide a detailed budget breakdown for the event at the next Committee meeting.
5.5.10 Additional Item to the Report from the Head of Service (Parks and Amenities) – Lagan Valley Regional Park (LVRP): Funding – Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA)
The Head of Service tabled correspondence from the NIEA, advising that the application from LVRP to the Environment Fund had been successful in obtaining an award in the sum of £10,000 towards eligible project costs in the period 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2017. However, Members were advised this represented a reduction in award from NIEA of almost 73% compared to the 2015-2016 financial year and would present a budget shortfall for LVRP in the current year.
Following discussion, it was proposed by Alderman Leathem, seconded by Councillor A McIntyre and agreed to recommend that the Council write to the Chief Executive of the NIEA, expressing disappointment in the level of funding offered to the Lagan Valley Regional Park and ask that the Department of the Environment / NIEA reconsider the application.
5.6 Report from Head of Service (Sports Services)
It was proposed by Councillor T Morrow, seconded by Councillor A McIntyre and agreed that the report and recommendations from the Head of Service (Sports Services) be adopted, subject to any decisions recorded below.
Items for Decision
5.6.1 Request from Education Authority to Provide Financial Assistance for Special School Summer Scheme 2016
Members noted correspondence from the Acting Assistant Principal Officer in the Education Authority, requesting that the Council once again provide financial assistance in meeting the costs associated with running the Special School Summer Scheme 2016. The scheme intended to cater for approximately 700 children aged between three and 19, with severe and complex learning difficulties, medical conditions, physical, mental and sensory disabilities.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve financial assistance of £5,000 to the Education Authority to assist in meeting the costs associated with running the 2016 Special Schools Summer Scheme.
5.6.2 Request to Use Grounds Adjacent to Dundonald International Ice Bowl for Cyclo-Cross Race
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Members noted correspondence from Kinning Cycles, requesting permission to use Council grounds at the rear of Dundonald International Ice Bowl to host a Cyclo-Cross event on 23 October 2016, including senior and junior races. It was hoped to attract in excess of 400 competitors.
Any work required to make good the race area after the race would be covered by the organisers.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve Kinning Cycles hosting a Cyclo-Cross event on Council grounds at the rear of Dundonald International Ice Bowl on 23 October 2016, subject to proof of insurance cover and assurance that the company would cover the costs of any work that might be required on the land to repair damage caused by participants.
5.6.3 Recruitment of Quality Systems Manager
Members were advised that the agreed organisational design structure for Sports Services included the new post of Quality Systems Manager, to be appointed on a temporary fixed-term basis. The main duties of the postholder would be the standardisation of Health & Safety practices, employment / Human Resources procedures and identification of potential efficiency savings in Sports Services, particularly in Dundonald International Ice Bowl and Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the recruitment of a Quality Systems Manage in accordance with the Recruitment Protocol for Appointments to Posts under LGRJF Procedures for filling posts in the new Council structure and accompanying Council protocol for filling of posts and, should the post not be filled internally, to report back to the Committee for approval prior to any external recruitment.
5.6.4 Hillsborough Boys Festival of Football – Request for Financial Assistance
Members noted correspondence from Hillsborough Boys Football Club, requesting the Council to consider providing financial assistance towards the costs associated with the Club hosting the Festival of Football event taking place on 13 and 14 August 2016. Furthermore, the club had also requested the use of facilities at the Football Factory and Lisburn Recreation Centre for the duration of the tournament. It was noted the Club had provided details of the income and expenditure relating to the event in 2015.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the request from Hillsborough Boys FC for the use of the Football Factory, Lisburn Recreation Centre, and associated facilities on the weekend of 13-14
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August 2016, and for a contribution of £1,000 from Council towards costs incurred by the Club in the hosting of the 2016 Festival of Football.
5.6.5 Northern Ireland Amateur Football League –v- Scottish Football League: Downshire Young Men’s Request for Financial Assistance
Members were reminded that, following a request from the Northern Ireland Amateur Football League, the Council had, in February 2016, agreed a recommendation from the Committee to host a reception to mark the NI Amateur Football League hosting its Scottish counterparts in a match for the Britton Rosebowl on 14 May 2016 at the grounds of Downshire Young Men FC.
Members were advised that Downshire Young Men FC had now written requesting financial support from the Council to offset the Club`s costs associated with hosting this event.
Following consideration, it was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the request from Downshire Young Men for financial assistance and provide £500 towards the cost of hosting the Brittan Rosebowl on 14 May 2016.
Items for Noting
5.6.6 European Referendum, Thursday 23 June – Use of Council Facilities for Polling and Count Venue
Members noted that the Council had received requests from the Electoral Office NI to avail of Lagan Valley LeisurePlex as a count venue for the EU referendum vote on 23 June 2016. They had also requested the use of other facilities, including Kilmakee Activity Centre and Loughmoss Leisure Centre, as polling stations. The Electoral Office NI had been provided with relevant booking forms and associated costs.
Members further noted that the use of Council facilities for the Assembly elections and EU referendum votes would have an adverse effect on centre income.
5.6.7 Health and Wellbeing Officer – Financial Assistance from Public Health Agency
Members were reminded of the previously approved appointment of a dedicated Health & Wellbeing Officer and the target to recoup the majority of the salary through the referral fee paid by the Public Health Agency for each client taking part in the scheme. It was now anticipated that it might not be possible to achieve this target in year 1,therefore the Public Health Agency had been approached with a view to obtaining additional financial
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support. The Public Health Agency had agreed to provide additional funding of £10,000 for 2016/2017 to assist in covering the initial salary costs of the Health & Wellbeing Officer.
5.6.8 Request for Financial Assistance – Mary Peters Trust
Members noted correspondence from the Mary Peters Trust, requesting financial assistance from the Council. Provision of £1,000 had been made in the 2015/2016 estimates as a contribution to the Mary Peters Trust and under delegated authority, the Director of Leisure & Community Services had approved the payment of £1,000 to the Trust. Following consideration, Members requested that, as this was the current Mayoral Charity, the payment, if possible, should be made to the Mary Peters Trust through this route.
5.6.9 Potential Extension City of Lisburn Salto Gymnastics Centre: Update
Members noted an update in respect of progress of the proposed extension of Lisburn Salto Gymnastic Centre.
The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and Sport NI had indicated that it was unlikely that any major funding would be available in the short to medium term. However, it had been agreed that Salto could use the existing business case and economic appraisal to approach potential funders but the next step in the development process would need to be decided by Salto’s Board of Directors.
5.6.10 Sports Services Facilities – Closure Dates 2017
Members noted the closure dates for Sports Services facilities in 2016/2017 as outlined in the report from the Head of Service (Sports Services).
6 Confidential Report from the Director of Leisure & Community Services
It was agreed that the Confidential Report and recommendations from the Director of Leisure & Community Services be adopted subject to any decisions recorded below.
The Director reported that the items contained in his Confidential Report required to be considered in Committee due to the reasons outlined:
Item 6.1: Confidential for reasons relating to the financial and business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information) Item 6.2: Confidential for reasons relating to the financial and business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information)
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Item 6.3: Confidential for reasons relating to the financial and business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information) Item 6.4: Confidential for reasons relating to the financial and business affairs of the organisation concerned (including the Council holding that information) Item 6.5: Confidential for reasons of information relating to individuals
It was proposed by Councillor A McIntyre, seconded by Councillor S Scott and agreed that the items in the Confidential Report be considered ‘In Committee’ in the absence of members of the press and public.
In Committee
6.1 Tender Report – Appointment of a Contractor to Carry Out Construction Works in Respect of Lisburn North Community Centre
Members were provided with a tender report in respect of the construction of Lisburn North Community Facility for consideration.
Following discussion, it was agreed to recommend that the Council award the tender for the construction of a Lisburn North Community facility at Rathvarna Drive, North Lisburn, to JPM Contracts Ltd and approve the increase in the capital budget necessary to deliver this project.
6.2 Tender Report – Operation of a Mobile Kiosk in Wallace Park, Lisburn
Members were provided with a tender report in respect of the provision and operation of the Mobile Kiosk in Wallace Park for consideration.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council award the contract for the supply of a Mobile Ice Cream / Vending Operator for Wallace Park to Robinson’s Ice Cream.
6.3 Tender Report – Provision of Stewarding and Crowd Control Services
Members were reminded that the Committee had obtained delegated powers at the Council meeting on 22 March 2016 to award the contract for Stewarding and Crowd Control Services, and Members were provided with a tender report in this regard for consideration.
It was agreed to award the contract for the provision of Stewarding and Crowd Control Services for Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council events in 2016-2019 to Eventsec.
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6.4 Request from Department for Social Development – Provision of Some Match-Funding from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Towards Resurgam Community Development Trust’s Core Costs in 2016-2017
Members were reminded that the Committee had been granted delegated authority at the Council meeting on 22 March 2016 to consider a request from the Department for Social Development (DSD) for match-funding towards the costs of the Resurgam Community Development Trust in 2016- 2017.
A copy of an evaluation of the project carried out independently on behalf of the DSD and a copy of a business case in relation to the request were tabled for information, which highlighted the Trust’s considerable success in establishing a community development / regeneration programme of work alongside a diverse range of social economy projects. Furthermore, officers from the Development and Leisure and Community Services Departments had worked together with the DSD and the Trust to develop a five-year sustainability plan, which, together with an associated action plan, was nearing completion.
The Director of Leisure and Community Services, in responding to a number of questions from Members, confirmed that the issues raised would be addressed within the conditions of any Letter of Offer issued to the Resurgam Develoment Trust in relation to any award of funding agreed by Council.
It was agreed that the Council be recommended to approve a contribution of £27,000 in 2016-2017 as an element of match-funding towards the Resurgam Development Trust application to the DSD Social Enterprise and Innovation Programme, subject to Financial Services staff agreeing the business case and the conditions agreed by Council at its meeting on 22 March 2016.
6.5 Application for Voluntary Severance Under RPA
Councillor S Scott left the meeting at 5.24 pm.
Members noted a request for voluntary severance under the RPA Staff Severance Scheme for release on 30 June 2016, which was tabled for consideration. The business case for the request met the requirements of the scheme.
It was agreed to recommend that the Council approve the request for voluntary severance, as outlined in the Confidential Report from the Director of Leisure and Community Services, for release under the RPA Staff Severance Scheme on 30 June 2016.
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It was proposed by Councillor A Givan, seconded by Councillor A McIntyre and agreed to come out of committee and normal business was resumed.
Resumption of Normal Business
7 Any Other Business
7.1 Receptions
The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor R T Beckett, advised that he had received notification that Lisnagarvey Hockey Club had won the inaugural All-Ireland Hockey League title and he proposed that the Council hold a reception in recognition of this achievement.
Following consideration, the Committee agreed to a request from the Chair, Alderman S P Porter, that a reception be held for members of the Badminton Team from Lisburn 2Gether Special Olympics Club, who had recently competed very successfully in Badminton Championships in Scotland.
It was further agreed to give retrospective approval for a reception held to recognise local resident Gail Mullan on her achievements as a member of the NI Darts Team.
There being no further business, the meeting ended at 5.30 pm.
______Chairman
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LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF THE LEISURE & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 11 MAY 2016 REPORT BY DIRECTOR OF LEISURE & COMMUNITY SERVICES
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:
• To agree the Terms of Reference for formation of the Housing Liaison Group • To agree comments by way of a response to the Department of Finance & Personnel consultation on Enhanced Sport & Recreation Rate Relief for Unlicensed Community Amateur Sports Clubs The following items are for noting: • A presentation in regard to the redevelopment of Dundonald International Ice Bowl will be made at the forthcoming Members “Away Day” • The budget report for Leisure & Community Services • The award of grants in connection with the Queen`s 90th Birthday Celebrations under the relevant Council Grant scheme • Arrangements in relation to the Cultural & Identity Grant Scheme 2016 • The successful application of the Lisburn Museum to participate in the Northern Ireland Museum Council “Playful Museums” project and the associated award of grant • The delisting by the Department of the Environment NI of the Crimean cannon located in Castle Gardens, Lisburn The following items are for consideration: • It is recommended Members consider the report from the Head of Service [Cultural & Community Services] • It is recommended Members consider the report of the Head of Service [Parks & Amenities] • It is recommended Members consider the report from the Head of Service [Sports Services
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
1. HOUSING LIAISON GROUP: FORMATION OF, AND DRAFT TERMS OF REFERENCE At the Monthly Meeting of Council held on 23 February 2016, it was resolved to establish a Housing Liaison Group within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area, which would include representation from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, various housing providers, PSNI and other relevant agencies in addition to the Council. To assist in taking this decision forward I attach at Appendix 1, for the consideration of Members, a draft Terms of Reference for the Housing Liaison Group. Recommendation It is recommended Members consider and agree the draft Terms of Reference for the formation and operation of the Housing Liaison Group for the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. 2. DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE & PERSONNEL: CONSULTATION ON ENHANCED SPORT & RECREATION RATE RELIEF – UNLICENSED COMMUNITY AMATEUR SPORTS CLUBS Members are advised that the above Department has launched a consultation in regard to policy proposals for the provision of enhanced Sport & Recreation rate relief. A copy of the Consultation document is attached at Appendix 2A for the consideration of Members. Draft comments by way of a Council response have been prepared by Council Officers and are attached at Appendix 2B for the consideration of Members. Recommendation It is recommended Members consider the policy proposals from the Department of Finance & Personnel, and draft comments prepared by Council Officers in this regard, and agree a response. ITEMS FOR NOTING 3. CAPITAL PROJECTS: DUNDONALD INTERNATIONAL ICE BOWL Members are asked to note that a presentation in regard to the above will be made at the Members “Away Day” scheduled for later this month. Recommendation It is recommended Members note the above 4. DEPARTMENTAL BUDGET REPORT Members are asked to note that the monthly report as at 31st March 2016 will be provided once all the year-end adjustments to the accounts have been finalised. Recommendation It is recommended Members note the above. 5. THE QUEENS 90th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION GRANTS It is reported that at the close of the grant scheme on the 28 April 2016 a total of 38 applications had been received. These applications have been tested for eligibility and a complete list of those recommended to receive letters of offer will be circulated at Committee for noting. Recommendation It is recommended this report be noted. 6. CULTURE AND IDENTITY GRANTS 2016 Members are asked to note that the Culture and Identity Grants Scheme for 2016 was advertised on Thursday 28 April 2016, on the same basis as in previous years. The application period will remain open until the advertised closing date of Thursday 26 May at 4.00pm. Application forms and guidance notes are available from the Council website or the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum or email [email protected]. This year (as in 2014) the grant scheme highlighted the 100th anniversary of World War One, and advised applicant groups that, if wished, they could focus programmes on projects on the relevance of 1916 events to local issues of culture and identity Appendix 3. Recommendation It is recommended this report be noted. 7. MUSEUM EDUCATION PROGRAMME: PLAYFUL MUSEUMS Members are advised that the Museum has been selected, following application to the Northern Ireland Museums Council, to participate as one of five N.I Museums in the development of an under 5s pilot programme entitled ‘Playful Museums’. This will provide the Museum with 100% support funding for this programme up to a total of £5,000 in this financial year. The funding will cover the cost of recommended training for staff in Early Years provision and for the development of bespoke programmes for under 5s relating to museum themes. An Education Authority (South Eastern) focus group Early Years Inclusive Service has been booked for the Assembly Room with some 100 local nursery and primary school staff anticipated to attend on the 9th June 2016. Recommendation It is recommended this development be noted. 8. DELISTING OF THE CRIMEAN CANNON, CASTLE GARDENS I append at Appendix 4A papers received from DOENI relating to the Crimean Cannon in Castle Gardens. The Crimean trophy was originally listed under the first survey1970s-80s but a decision to delist has now been taken under the current second survey and notified to Council. The Museum Curator on enquiry received a further explanation of the decision to delist [Appendix 4B] from DOENI which would seem to suggest that this was a rationalisation based on the fact that other such gun trophies are not listed in Northern Ireland, and this appears to be correct, for in researching this, he found similar trophy cannons on the Mall, Armagh and in Newry that are not listed. As the letter from DOENI states ‘you should not take this to imply that this structure is ‘of no heritage interest’, our officer view would be that the Crimean Cannon in Castle Gardens does remain of significant heritage value and we are fortunate that it is set up on a substantial granite plinth with an inscription explaining that it was the gift of Admiral Meynell MP for Lisburn from 1826-47’. Meynell, an English naval officer of no great distinction, was promoted to the Lisburn parliamentary seat by his cousin the third Marquess of Hertford, the town’s landlord. The cannon would appear similar to those taken from Sebastopol and given to many towns and cities throughout Britain and the Empire. The British army in the Crimea had a huge Irish contingent and there were certainly local men who fought there – such as the Victoria Cross winner Corporal William James Lendrim. The VC medal was instituted during the Crimean War and is made from captured Russian gun metal. Our cast iron cannon with Russian imperial eagle on the barrel is in sound condition. It was first placed in the centre of Market Square but moved to Castle Gardens in the 1870s. It was moved from its earlier position, about 30 metres to the west, in the 2004-06 restoration of the park. Notwithstanding its present delisting, the best guarantee of its preservation remains its ownership by the Council in a public park that it also owns. Delisting does not in any way endanger an important monument that is widely appreciated by the public as a prominent Castle Gardens heritage object that survives in a safe environment with relatively little required maintenance. Recommendation It is recommended this report be noted. 9. REPORT FROM MR RYAN BLACK, HEAD OF SERVICE [CULTURAL & COMMUNITY SERVICES] Please find attached at Appendix 5 the report from the Head of Service [Cultural & Community Services] Recommendation It is recommended Members consider the report of the Head of Service [Cultural & Community Services] 10. REPORT FROM MR ROSS GILLANDERS, HEAD OF SERVICE [PARKS & AMENITIES] Please find attached at Appendix 6 the report from the Head of Service [Parks & Amenities] Recommendation It is recommended Members consider the report of the Head of Service [Parks & Amenities] 11. REPORT FROM MR BRENDAN COURTNEY, HEAD OF SERVICE [SPORTS SERVICES] Please find attached at Appendix 7 the report from the Head of Service [Sports Services]. Recommendation It is recommended Members consider the report of the Head of Service [Sports Services] DRAFT LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL HOUSING LIAISON FORUM
1. TERMS OF REFERENCE a) To act as a Forum for the discussion and consideration of Housing related issues within the Lisburn & Castlereagh City area, excluding regulatory matters such as fitness, nuisance etc. b) To monitor the progress of Housing Provider Action Plans within the Council area c) To promote partnership working on Housing issues within the context of the Community Plan for the area d) To represent the views of all residents in Housing matters that contribute to the delivery of key objectives on matters relating to the Council Health & Wellbeing Strategy e) To promote good practice in Housing development and management in the Council area f) To identify, commission and to respond to research that improves understanding of Housing issues within the Council area g) To advise Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council in regard to Housing related issues in the Council area including but not exclusively the following. Fuel poverty & Energy Efficiency Ensuring access to good quality housing Reducing the incidence of trips & falls within the housing stock
2. MEMBERSHIP Representatives of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council [5] Representatives from the Community & Voluntary sector from within the Council area [7] Northern Ireland Housing Executive [1] Housing Associations [2] Representatives of Private Landlords [2] Lisburn CAB [1] PSNI [1]
3. GOVERNANCE ARRANGEMENTS a) Meets Quarterly b) Chair & Vice Chair elected annually from the membership c) Process for nominees to be agreed d) Serviced by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. e) Minutes reported through Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council [Leisure & Community Services Committee] f) Agenda to be agreed by Chair & Vice Chair along with specific work programmes for the Forum g) Chair to seek consensus or majority agreement to actions where necessary. Individual members will not be bound by agreed actions. h) Quorum 7 members from at least 3 different organisations including 2 from LCCC
DFP CONSULTATION ENHANCED SPORT & RECREATION RATE RELIEF - UNLICENSED COMMUNITY AMATEUR SPORTS CLUBS
MARCH 2016 1. INTRODUCTION AND SCOPE 3
2. CORE POLICY CONSIDERATIONS 6
3. PREFERRED POLICY APPROACH – 11 ENHANCED RELIEF
4. PIGEON RACING AND CHANGES TO LIST 14 OF SPECIFIED RECREATIONS
5. NEXT STEPS 18
ANNEX A – LIST OF STAKEHOLDERS
ANNEX B – POLICY FRAMEWORK
ANNEX C – POSITION IN UK
ANNEX D – IMPACT ASSESSMENT STATEMENT
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INTRODUCTION AND SCOPE
1. This consultation paper is about the granting of additional rate relief for unlicensed community amateur sports clubs (CASCs).
2. The consultation exercise is a targeted one, both in terms of its reach (who the Department is consulting with), and its scope (what it covers).
3. There has already been a series of consultations undertaken on this subject area in recent times. Firstly, the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure engaged with sporting bodies on the issue back in 2012. Then there was a further consultation with sports clubs undertaken to inform a Private Members Bill in 2014. The Finance Committee undertook consultation with stakeholders in 2015 to inform their response to the Rates (Amendment) Bill 2016. Furthermore, the matter is also touched on as part of this year’s Review of the non domestic rating system.
4. This consultation is to help supplement known views and address gaps. The Department will be contacting relevant umbrella groups and organisations but given the nature of this consultation will not be engaging directly with individual sports clubs and ratepayers. However, written responses from individuals are most welcome.
5. A list of key stakeholders that have been written to by the Department can be found at Annex A. The consultation period will be 8 weeks and it will close on 9 May 2016.
6. In terms of its scope, this consultation is intended to inform decisions around the rules associated with the granting of enhanced rate relief to eligible amateur sports clubs in Northern Ireland. This follows enabling legislation which was passed by the Assembly on the 2 February 2016 and is currently awaiting Royal Assent. A copy of the Bill can be found though the following web-link:
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http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/assembly-business/legislation/primary-legislation- current-bills/rates-amendment-bill2/
7. When commenced this Bill will provide a new enabling power to increase rates relief from 80% to 100% for sports clubs in prescribed cases. Those ‘prescribed cases’ will be set out in subordinate legislation, informed by this consultation.
8. The Department is seeking views only on its intended policy approach in order to identify any unforeseen consequences; it is not consulting on alternative policy proposals at this time and the consultation is not presenting an opportunity to significantly broaden the scope of the relief at this time.
9. A wider use of the power was not the basis on which the enabling bill was introduced to the Assembly.
10. The Department’s policy intent is to allow clubs with rateable premises to qualify for 100% rate relief if:
a. the club is registered with HMRC as a community amateur sports clubs; and b. does not hold a liquor licence.
11. The Department recognises that there are many amateur sports clubs that operate small bars a couple of days or evenings a week, as a ‘mere accompaniment’ to participation in sport, which could not be said to be in competition with the licensed trade nor a significant source of revenue.
12. This may well be the case, however, differentiating between one type of bar and another is not a straightforward matter in the context of administering rates and for the time being the line is being drawn at unlicensed clubs.
13. In the meantime it is important to note that those clubs that operate bars will still be entitled to at least 80% relief on their sporting facilities. Furthermore, there is already an allowance in the existing legislation that allows Page | 4
non sporting areas (such as bars) that do not exceed 20% of the assessed value of the entirety (ie the whole premises and the grounds) to avail of 80% relief on everything, including the bar.
14. An integrated impact assessment statement can be found at Annex D.
15. Finally, this consultation also takes the opportunity to consult on the list of prescribed recreations, (all the sports who currently benefit from 80% relief) prompted by the unforeseen inclusion of pigeon racing during the passage of the legislation referred to above.
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POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
16. The full details of how the existing 80% relief scheme operates are set out in Annex A. This will remain undisturbed but some new eligibility rules are needed to ensure that the unlicensed Community Amateur Sports Clubs that are currently entitled to 80% rate relief on their sporting facilities, can take advantage of 100% relief.
17. Before outlining what these proposed rules are it is worth setting out some of the wider considerations associated with this policy. The first issue, and one that has dominated the debate, is the question of competitive advantage.
18. This is by no means a new issue. Indeed, it is worth noting the following extract from the 1978 Lawrence Committee report which led to sporting rate relief increasing from 35% to 65% :
“The Northern Ireland Hotels and Caterers Association drew our attention to the fact that many clubs in Northern Ireland with catering and associated services and facilities enjoy 35% relief from rates, whereas hotels and catering establishments are fully rated. The Association also argued that clubs are free from many statutory restrictions which apply to hotels and caterers, involving them in additional expenditure. Representatives of the Association complained that their members were confronted by a large growing volume of unfair competition which, by reductions in rates and other ways, was supported by public policy. In written and oral evidence, the Association indicated that, while it did not object to appropriate measures of rate relief, it did object strongly to the principle of giving relief to clubs providing catering and associated services and withholding it from private operators.”
19. The Department accepts the issue is a complex one. As noted earlier the Department recognises that there are many amateur sports clubs that operate small bars a couple of days or evenings a week, as a ‘mere accompaniment’ to participation in sport, which could not be said to be in competition with the licensed trade nor a significant source of revenue. Differentiating between one
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type of club bar and another is not a straightforward matter in the context of administering rates.
20. There are limits to the amount of information that Land and Property Services can be expected to handle in arriving at relief decisions and issues of disproportionate cost associated with, what is effectively, a 20% top up to existing support.
21. Currently in Northern Ireland, all CASCs with their own premises are in receipt of at least 80% relief on their sporting facilities. The bar areas are excluded from the relief unless they amount to 20% or less of the assessed value of the entire property. In such circumstances 80% relief applies to the entirety (the bar and the sporting facilities).
22. It is important to note, that club bars and restaurants are assessed for rates using figures derived from the cost of construction, rather than receipts and expenditures figures adopted for commercial licensed premises. Typically that leads to assessments per square foot of club bars being much less than commercial premises. The valuation method is not something, however, that would normally be set out in legislation. In the final analysis it is the courts that decide and their different treatment is a consequence of the differences in terms of their status as legal entities. Clubs should only be selling food and drink to members and occasional guests, the other is open to the general public.
23. DFP is concerned with developing policy that is both balanced and represents good value for money (which includes measures that forgo revenue) but it is not the policy competent Department in determining the underlying need for policy interventions associated with amateur sport in NI. That role falls to the Department of Culture Arts and Leisure (DCAL).
24. In taking forward its policy responsibility in this area DFP has considered the views put forward by the DCAL, in their response to the Finance Committee’s call for evidence on this policy area on 28 May 2014.
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http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/globalassets/documents/finance/legislation/rates- relief-for-amateur-sports-clubs-bill/written-submissions/dcal.pdf
25. In particular the following has helped inform thinking:
“This priority informs a range of key issues of concern for DCAL going forward on this issue as follows, that…the application of financial savings by clubs who benefit from maximum relief, should be for the development of sport and the increase of participation and not the development of the club and those facilities not directly linked to these priorities, for example, bar and clubrooms, entertainment facilities and spectator facilities”
“The [Private Members] Bill seeks to apply the CASC criteria to rate relief in the north of Ireland [direct quote], providing a benchmark by which clubs can be assessed for 100% relief. Its standard conditions however should be supplemented by requirements in the interest of Government priorities here in the north [direct quote]. It may not be the case that every club will or should benefit, unless there is clear evidence that they have signed up for and are seen to implement existing and any new additional criteria”
26. Evidence heard and received by the Finance Committee in late 2015 is worth noting in terms of the policy effects in Northern Ireland. Two Committee sessions in particular highlighted what could be regarded as competing stakeholder interests in this policy area. Those sessions took place with the Sport Governing Bodies and Sport Northern Ireland on 2 December 2015 and with Hospitality Ulster on 3 December 2015.
27. The minutes of evidence from the two sessions can be accessed in full at the following links:
http://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/minutesofevidencereport.aspx?Age ndaId=16057&eveID=8805
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http://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/minutesofevidencereport.aspx?Age ndaId=16220&eveID=9084
28. Issues around unfair competition in this policy area manifested themselves in December 2013 when the EU Commission received a complaint concerning alleged State Aid under Corporation Tax and business rates granted to member-owned golf clubs with CASC status in the United Kingdom (UK). The complaint was submitted by the Association of Golf Club Owners, which represents proprietary golf clubs in the UK.
29. According to the complaint, the alleged beneficiaries (CASCs) are being allowed to trade for gain with outsiders and non-members, by registering visitors as members so that their income is not taxed, and by offering their services including the use of their golf courses, bar and catering sales, accommodation, conferences and weddings. The complainant alleged that the tax measures provided a selective advantage to the qualifying golf clubs which compete with the "proprietary" golf clubs.
30. Given that the case related to CASC status the Department could not legislate on the issue of enhanced rate relief for any CASCs until the outcomes of the Commission Case. The Commission ultimately reported on the case at the end of April 2015. The judgment was silent on the specific issue of rate relief but its tone suggests that enhanced rate relief could amount to State Aid unless due care is taken in policy design.
31. Consistency of policy treatment is another consideration and the approach the Department intends to take forward aligns policy with that which operates for community halls, where licensed halls are excluded from full exemption on the grounds that this can generate revenue and so make a contribution to rates revenue.
32. The approach taken in the rest of the UK is summarised in Annex B.
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33. Finally, there is the issue of cost. If the enabling power is subsequently used to allow for the provision of 100% exemption for unlicensed clubs the cost is not expected to exceed £750,000 per annum.
34. In terms of bearing this cost, the full amount will be borne by central government, as opposed to district councils. The reduction in rateable value within the district council will initially act as a loss to both central government and district council revenue. The district council revenue reduction is normally compensated in full under DOE’s long standing policy to pay “derating grant” to councils.
35. The remainder of the cost to central government is accounted for by way of revenue foregone to the tax base. Effectively the enhanced exemption will reduce the return to central government.
36. If the scheme is implemented for a partial year in Year 1, the cost will be as above only reduced in proportion to the remaining months in the rating year.
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PREFERRED POLICY APPROACH – ENHANCED RELIEF
37. The proceeding section explains the background to the Department’s approach. This section sets out how this could be achieved. It is on this section in particular that views are sought.
38. The Rates (Amendment) Bill passed through its final stage in the Assembly on 2 February 2016. The Bill will provide a new enabling provision to grant enhanced rate relief under Article 31 of the Rates (Northern Ireland) Order 1977 (“the 1977 Order”), subject to prescribed criteria.
39. The policy proposal is to:-
a. allow clubs registered with HMRC as community amateur sports clubs to qualify for 100% rate relief, rather than 80%, in accordance with the new Article 31(5A) as inserted by Article 1 of the Rates (Amendment) Bill 2016; but b. exclude from exemption properties that have a liquor licence.
40. This will align rating policy with the treatment of community halls. The legislation governing Community Halls stipulates that exemption applies to a body which does not under licence (other than occasional licence), or a protection order sell intoxicating liquor by retail, or by virtue of the occupier being a registered club.1 Eligible sports clubs therefore would be entitled to sell alcoholic drink at special occasions and not lose their entitlement.
Trading subsidiaries / related entities
41. The main financial restriction within CASC legislation is the ‘income condition’ which restricts a club’s receipts from trading with non-members and property income to £100,000 per annum.
1 Registration of Clubs (NI) Order 1996 Page | 11
42. At present if a club or company is a CASC (or intends to be) and determines that they are at risk of exceeding that £100,000 p.a. income threshold (thus putting its CASC status or eligibility at risk) the Department is aware that arrangements can be put in place so that any trading income and/or property income that is generated can be placed in a separate trading subsidiary (for example a wholly owned subsidiary trading company).
43. The Department takes the view that clubs that occupy premises alongside a trading subsidiary should be excluded from any enhanced relief, on the basis that trading activity is substantial enough for the club to afford to pay 20% rates on their sporting facilities.
44. This principle also extends to clubs with licensed premises that are physically connected (for example in the same building) and that are functionally “not unrelated”, notwithstanding that the social club is legally occupied in different names under a separate title, lease or licence. This is to guard against contrived or artificial arrangements being set up. In other words, for the purposes of determining relief entitlement, the Department will treat the two parts as if they are in the same occupation.
Council contribution to the cost of enhancements / discretionary enhancement
45. During the course of the Committee evidence session on the use of the Bill enabling powers, the issue was raised as to whether District Councils should contribute to the funding of a discretionary top-up.
46. This would require adjustments to primary legislation which could not be put in place for September. The issue is not a new one however. In 2005 DFP consulted on the issue but it was decided to await the conclusion of the Review of Public Administration (RPA) before considering Council funded discretionary rate relief for qualifying sports clubs.
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47. RPA or local government reorganisation was implemented in April 2015 and accordingly DFP consulted on greater discretions for councils, as part of the wider and ongoing review of Non-Domestic Rating. See page 24 of the consultation paper:
https://www.dfpni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/consultations/dfp/Review%20of%20 Non-Domestic%20Rating%20System%20-%20Consultation%20Paper%20- %201%20December.pdf
48. Longer term decisions on this issue will be taken as part of the Non Domestic Rating Review and are not therefore being considered within this consultation.
Treatment of spectator facilities and stands
49. An issue raised by the DFP Committee is the treatment of spectator facilities and stands, which are not entitled to relief. This is set out in primary legislation which states that relief is only applicable to those parts of the property used by those taking part in a prescribed recreation, which means not those parts used by spectators. This cannot be changed through the new regulations.
50. In any case, because of the 20% “de minimus” rule (where non sporting areas can be disregarded if they amount to less than 20% or less of the total value, explained in full detail within Annex B). It would be rare for unlicensed clubs to exceed this threshold. In any cases where this does arise, it does raise the question that if such assets are income generating whether or not it is reasonable for rates to be charged.
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PIGEON RACING AND CHANGES TO LIST OF SPECIFIED RECREATIONS
Pigeon Racing
51. Prompted by the unforeseen inclusion of pigeon racing in the prescribed list of eligible recreations during the passage of the recent legislation, the Department is now taking the opportunity presented by this paper to consult further on the issue.
52. This is a complex issue and one this is widely misunderstood, in terms of the impact it is likely to have.
53. It is important to note that raising the issue in this consultation paper has nothing to do with the merits, or otherwise, of allowing premises used by pigeon racing clubs to secure Sport and Recreation Relief.
54. The tabled amendment that was unexpectedly passed by majority vote in the Assembly (which was against the advice of the Department) is unlikely to have the anticipated effect of delivering 80% rate relief to many of the premises occupied by pigeon clubs.
55. The amendment is unlikely to work in practice because of the requirement placed on the Department under the existing legislation to only permit relief for rooms or areas involving a:
“recreation, whether conducted indoors or outdoors, which in the opinion of the Department demands an appreciable degree of physical effort and which is of a kind specified by the Department, after consultation with the Sports Council for Northern Ireland and with any association which appears to the Department to be representative of district councils, by an order made subject to affirmative resolution.”
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56. In other words, although the Assembly has voted in favour of the amendment, it is not enough to simply place the activity “Pigeon Racing” onto the list of specified recreations in rating legislation2 to secure rate relief. As was pointed out when the amendment was debated in the Assembly, entitlement to rate relief still requires an appreciable degree of physical effort to be present and for the Department to be satisfied that this is so in every case.
57. Although the question was debated in the Assembly and views were expressed that the physical effort involved in pigeon racing stood comparison with many recognised active sports, pigeon racing does not feature in Sports NI’s list of recognised sports on their official list of “sports we recognise”. In addition Sports NI state that:
“any physical effort and skill required to prepare for the activity to take place (e.g. preparation of playing fields, animal husbandry, travelling to and from a place where the activity is played) will not be taken into consideration for the purposes of recognition”.
58. Notwithstanding this, pigeon racing will feature shortly as an addition to the list within rating legislation when the Rates Amendment Bill is enacted. As noted above, this may not in itself confer rate relief to premises used for activities associated with pigeon racing.
59. It is important, therefore, that bodies associated with pigeon racing clearly present the case that the ‘sport’ involves an appreciable degree of physical effort and go on to identify and explain the various activities involved and where they typically occur. This is in order to help the Department draw up practicable guidance notes so that rate relief can be granted in appropriate cases.
60. It is worth noting, however, that there is an assortment of buildings associated with pigeon racing that are currently rated, ranging from lofts and sheds through to higher value clubrooms and halls. It is this latter category of property where the most difficulty may lie. This is because the physical activity needs to be the
2 http://www.legislation.gov.uk/nisr/2007/72/made Page | 15
sole use of the room or area. For example, “pigeon moots” or other social gatherings are unlikely to qualify because even though they may be associated with racing, generally speaking they do not involve an appreciable degree of physical effort.
Review of list of specified recreations
61. The list of Specified Recreations in the subordinate rating legislation will simply mirror the centralised list of “recognised sports” and this has led to some anomalous entries, particularly as certain activities have been removed from the “recognised” sport listings by sporting authorities since the last prescription exercise by the Department. There are, therefore, specified recreations on the rating list that may not pass that further test and would not therefore get rate relief.
62. There is a case for tidying up the list of specified recreations in rating legislation and removing activities in order to ensure that the list is more in keeping with the other requirements for rate relief. However the current process is intended to prescribe the sport / recreation as one stage, with another being the assessment by LPS on behalf of the Department to satisfy itself as to the appreciable degree of physical effort.
63. Any addition to or exclusion from the list of prescribed recreations is carried out through subordinate legislation and is subject to a condition precedent that consultation must have been undertaken with sporting and local government authorities.
64. Views are sought on the issue of listing, particularly from bodies who may consider themselves (or be under the mistaken belief that they may be) disadvantaged by their removal from the list contained in rating legislation.
65. These recreations include, camping, model aircraft flying and model power boating, wild fowling, and camping.
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66. Although it is not possible to bind any future Executive or Assembly, in the absence of any decision to the contrary, the Department will ensure that pigeon racing is placed on future prescribed lists, as this was the will of the devolved Assembly as reflected in the primary legislation.
.
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NEXT STEPS
67. This targeted consultation will last for 8 weeks, and will end on 9 May 2016.
68. Details of where to send consultation responses are set out below.
Rating Policy Division Department of Finance and Personnel Carleton House 1 Cromac Avenue Gasworks Business Park BELFAST BT7 2JA
69. Responses to the consultation exercise will be made available on the Rating Policy website at:
https://www.dfpni.gov.uk/topics/property-rating/rating-policy
70. A paper setting out the main issues raised during consultation will also be made available in due course. The results of the consultation exercise will be analysed and shared with the Finance Minister and the Committee for Finance and Personnel. Decisions will then be reached on the way forward by the Finance Minister.
71. Any queries and consultation responses should be sent to:
72. If you require any further information about this consultation exercise you should contact Rating Policy Division on (028 9090 9325). The consultation paper can be made available, on request, in alternative languages and formats.
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Annex A – List of initial key stakeholders for targeted consultation
Northern Ireland Sports Forum Sports NI (on behalf of governing bodies) Sports Institute NI NI Federation of Clubs Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Association (NICVA) Association of Golf Club Owners Disability Sport Northern Ireland
Hospitality Ulster NI Food and Drink NI Federation of Hotels Tourism NI
District Councils Northern Ireland Local Government Association
All MLAs
Other consultees upon request.
The Paper will also be made available to all interested parties on the DFP public internet site.
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ANNEX B
Current level of relief
1. The current rating exemption for sport and recreation in Northern Ireland is authorised by statute under Article 31 of the Rates Order (Northern Ireland) Order 1977 (the 1977 Order) and there are currently no discretionary schemes available. Article 44 of the 1977 Order is also relevant in this context.
2. Article 31 provides that there can be a reduction of rates on certain rateable properties used for “prescribed recreations”. The level of reduction in such cases is currently 80% of the normal rate. Ancillary social facilities, such as bars, restaurants, card rooms, etc. remain fully rateable.
3. Article 44 provides for apportionment of the hereditamnet where part of it is not used for prescribed recreation, subject to “de minimus” criteria (see below).
Prescribed recreations
4. “Prescribed recreation” is defined as meaning “a recreation, whether conducted indoors or outdoors, which in the opinion of the Department demands an appreciable degree of physical effort and which is of a kind specified by the Department, after consultation with the Sports Council for Northern Ireland and with any association which appears to the Department to be representative of district councils, by an Order made subject to affirmative resolution”.
5. Such recreations are currently prescribed by The Rates (Recreational Hereditaments) Order (Northern Ireland) 2007. See:-
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/nisr/2007/72/made
6. As the definition makes clear, the relief is restricted to those activities that require an appreciable degree of physical effort. The rationale for this
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longstanding policy stems from the Lawrence Report of 1978 which recognised the wider benefits of encouraging fitness in the wider community and deemed it worthy of special treatment.
7. Games that require a high degree of skill or contribute to intellectual development but require little physical effort do not generally qualify as prescribed recreations, although the degree of physical effort in the list of prescribed recreations varies considerably. The Department usually takes its lead from the list of activities recognised by the UK Sports Councils for the purpose of registering clubs as Community Amateur Sports Clubs. In its last iteration the lists of sports where consulted on in 2005, and updated using the most up to date list in light of consultation outcomes in 20073. A copy of the previous consultation document can be accessed through the link below:-
http://webarchive.proni.gov.uk/20150609103612/http:/www.dfpni.gov.uk/rating- review/charitableexemptions.pdf
Apportionment of bar facilities and non-sporting areas
8. Article 44 then states that “if only one or more than one part (but not the whole) of the hereditament is so used, the net annual value of the hereditament shall be apportioned by the Commissioner or the District Valuer between the part or parts of the hereditament used solely for the purposes of a prescribed recreation and the remainder of the hereditament.” This is apportioned as follows:-
i. if the amount apportioned to the part or parts of the hereditament used solely for the purposes of a prescribed recreation is less than 20% of the net annual value, the hereditament shall be shown in the NAV list as having no part of its net annual value apportioned to that part or these parts; ii. if the amount so apportioned is 20% or more, but less than 50%, of the net annual value, the apportionment shall be shown in the NAV list;
3 Prior to that the list of recreations were outlined in the Rates (Recreational Hereditaments) Order (Northern Ireland) 1979 Page | 22
iii. if the amount so apportioned is 50% or more, but less than 80%, of the net annual value, that amount shall be increased by 20% thereof (and the amount apportioned to the remainder of the hereditament shall be reduced accordingly) and the apportionment as so adjusted shall be shown in the NAV list; iv. if the amount so apportioned is 80% or more of the net annual value, the hereditament shall be shown in the NAV list as used solely for the purposes of a prescribed recreation.
9. References to “the hereditament” for the above purposes do not include any part of the hereditament which is used for the purposes of a private dwelling.
10. The level of mandatory rate relief available for all qualifying sports clubs was increased from 65% to 80% on 1 April 2006 by Article 9 of the Rates (Capital Values, etc.) (Northern Ireland) Order 2006. The conditions that need to be met for the mandatory 80% are less stringent here in NI than the rest of the UK (see Annex B below). For example, wealthy private members clubs are entitled to relief if they satisfy the conditions. The Department does not intend to increase relief for these clubs through the new enabling provision.
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Annex C
Position in rest of UK
1. The position on rate relief in Northern Ireland is different to Great Britain. In the rest of the UK sports clubs that are registered as Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) receive 80% mandatory rate relief. This is granted under section 43 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 to occupiers who are Community Amateur Sports Clubs and have been registered with HM Revenue & Customs for the purposes of Chapter 9 of Part 13 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010, and who use the hereditament wholly or mainly for the purposes of the club. Local authorities then have the discretion to grant a further 20% rate relief in accordance with section 47 and 48 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988. In addition, sports organisations that are charities and use their premises wholly or mainly for charitable purposes are also entitled to 80% mandatory relief and a possible further 20% discretionary relief. Each local authority has its own policy on who benefits from this additional discretionary relief.
2. CASCs in the rest of the UK get the same level of mandatory relief (80%) as Sport and Recreation hereditaments occupied by sporting facilities here. To qualify for the additional discretionary top up relief in GB (providing up to 100% relief) a CASC must satisfy additional criteria set by the Local Authority. Typical additional criteria include:
i. club objectives that must align with local antipoverty strategies and local council priorities; ii. pricing structures that reflect the impact of forthcoming cuts and benefits changes; iii. a requirement to provide training or education to its members, and non- members such as young people, people with disabilities, retired people (the organisation should provide facilities that indirectly relieve the local Council of the need to do so, or enhance and supplement those it does provide); iv. organisations required to provide two years worth of their most recent financial accounts; Page | 24
v. Verification of Valid recognised Sport England Clubmark / associated National Governing Body Accreditation; vi. Proof should be presented that facilities are available to and used by all parts of the local community; (i.e. non-restrictive membership rates, membership open to general community and facilities available to non members); vii. Verification that a significant percentage (usually over 51%) of the membership is made up of local residents
Page | 25
ANNEX D
See separate attachment
Page | 26
ENHANCED SPORT & RECREATION RATE RELIEF FOR UNLICENSED COMMUNITY AMATEUR SPORTS CLUBS
INITIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Policy:
To Increase rate relief on properties associated with unlicensed CACSs from 80% to 100% Summary of Impact Screening Full Impact Assessment Assessment/Appraisal Reason Appraisal Required Yes/No Social Impacts Crime No No impact identified Community Safety & Victims No No impact identified Equality Details provided below No impact identified Health No No impact identified Human Rights No No impact identified Rural Details provided below No impact identified Social Inclusion Details provided below No impact identified Economic Impacts The policy involves raising less money from the Yes – Details provided rating system. Government spending will Economic Appraisal below increase through increases in the de-rating grant to District Councils. Involves changes in the use of public resources as there will now be less revenue recovered from Yes – Details provided Economic Assessment the rating system to use for government below spending. Local government budgets will be unaffected by this change. No impact on business. Policy ensures that only those sporting facilities that are unlicensed will Regulatory No benefit. This avoids potential issues around competition with other licensed non sporting facilities e.g. hotels. State Aid No No impact identified Environmental Impacts Environmental No No impact identified Strategic Environmental No No impact identified
Sustainable Development Impact No No material impact identified
Limitations of Analysis
1. The following analysis seeks to examine potential impacts, but it is important to note that there are limitations inherent in using ‘designated’ characteristics. Chief amongst these is the location factor, which is deduced from the property address. Whilst it is often the case that clubs are situated within the communities from which they draw their membership, this is not always true. Nevertheless, it is the best known indicator in the absence of other data. Furthermore, ‘predominant characteristics’ are only available and demonstrated at an electoral ward level, which is not necessarily representative of the makeup of the membership of individual clubs. Equality
2. Analysis has been undertaken to establish whether the policy change will be more beneficial to a particular community group. This was undertaken at electoral ward level and demonstrates that of those sporting facilities likely to benefit from the policy, 54% are located within electoral wards that are designated as having “Roman Catholic” as the largest percentage of the community.
3. When this is assessed based on those wards with at least 50% of the population being from a particular community background i.e. Roman Catholic or Protestant, the analysis demonstrates that of those properties benefiting, 46% are in wards with a majority from a Roman Catholic background, 38% from wards with a majority protestant and 16% are in wards with no clear majority i.e. no one community background accounts for more than 50% of all residents.
4. No potential impact has been identified for groups based on the other section 75 categories i.e. sex, marital status, sexual orientation, political opinion, race, age or disability. Rural Impact
5. An assessment has been carried out to determine whether the policy is likely to be beneficial or otherwise to CASCs located in rural areas.
6. This involved an analysis of whether the properties being impacted are located in urban or rural wards. For the purposes of this analysis, and in the absence of a centralised DARD/cross departmental definition of ‘rural’, the definition of a rural ward has therefore utilised similar methodology to that used for the Rural ATMs policy within DFP.
7. This has shown that 44% of properties benefiting from this policy are located in rural wards i.e. wards where at least 80% of residents are described as living in rural areas.
Social Inclusion
8. Although it is thought that the policy will not have any significant social inclusion impacts an assessment has been carried out to determine the ward level Multiple Deprivation Measure (MDM) for each property that will benefit.
9. The results of this analysis are presented in the following table:
MDM score 1 - 100 100 - 200 200 - 300 300 - 400 400 - 500 500 - 600 No of properties1 63 56 97 95 79 40 Average MDM 64 152 252 345 451 537
N.B. MDM score of 1 represents the most deprived ward
1 The total number of properties benefiting from enhanced relief should only be considered an estimate, as limitations with the data prevent definitive analysis in this regard.
10. This analysis indicates that the benefits of the policy are spread across a wide spectrum of wards from the most deprived to the least deprived. Economic Appraisal/Assessment
11. Given that this policy will impact on public resources it is considered that an economic appraisal/assessment is necessary. However given that the total cost of this policy is likely to be around £500k and no more than £750k, (which is in the context of a non- domestic rating system that generates £600m), the following analysis is presented bearing in mind the principle of proportionate effort.
Strategic Context
12. This policy will impact on the use of Article 31 of the Rates (Northern Ireland) Order 1977, subject to prescribed criteria. It will impact on DFP’s use of a new regulation- making power to increase the level of rate reduction under Article 31 from 80% to 100% in circumstances set out in the Regulations.
13. This is likely to apply to hereditaments2 in which intoxicating liquor is not being sold.
Need
14. The need for this policy change has been driven by a desire to assist Community and Amateur Sports Clubs in the delivery of wider public benefits. The original intention of granting 80% relief was to help CASCs with the promotion of physical recreation as well as their contribution to health care. It is thought that increasing this relief to 100% will assist further in this regard.
15. It is however, unclear to what extent this policy change will result in increased demand or participation for activities provided by CASCs, however all else being equal, it should provide CASCs with more resources to promote and support their activities.
16. The level of deadweight associated with this policy is unknown. However it would appear reasonable to assume that the increased support will not result in increased participation or public benefit for all CASCs. Indeed for some, it may simply mean that they will not have a rates bill and therefore will not have to raise the revenue to pay it or others may decide to pass the benefit onto its members through e.g. lower membership fees.
Objectives
The overall objectives of the policy are as follows: a) To increase the level of relief provided to CASCs through the rating system. It is expected that this will apply to rates bills from [subject to outcome of consultation b) To prevent unfair competition with other sectors within the business community by ensuring only unlicenced premises can benefit.
2 The legal term for properties that are assessed for rates Constraints a) Regulations have to be in place by September 2016 as per section 1 of the Rates Amendment Act. b) Regulatory – the final policy to be taken forward should not create issues of unfair competition with the business community.
Options
17. Alternative policy proposals were considered as part of the consultation exercise undertaken as part of the Rates (Relief for Community Amateur Sports Clubs) Bill which fell at second stage on 20th October 2015.
18. The current option and legislative process seeks to take forward aspects of the Rates (Relief for Community Amateur Sports Clubs) Bill that the Department considers had significant merit and rectify those parts that lead to concerns being raised for stakeholders and other departments, notably that it would have applied to sporting facilities with alcohol licences that compete directly with e.g. hotels for functions & weddings etc.
19. Given the process outlined above, it is apparent that alternative options have been considered, with the current policy proposal now representing the preferred option.
Costs & Benefits
20. When considering the cost of this policy change it is important to first of all consider who will bear the burden of the cost.
21. Currently all “revenue forgone” through sport & recreation relief represents a cost to central government. This is despite the fact that the revenue forgone relates to regional as well as district revenue. However as councils are compensated for S&R through the de-rating grant, central government (DOE) will end up paying for the “district” element, with the remainder being paid or forgone for by central government for regional services.
22. Current cost estimates of the policy change costing no more than £750k to central government are based on an assessment of those hereditaments that currently receive 80% relief on 100% of their NAV. This will represent approximately £375k of revenue forgone from the rating system, with the remaining £375k likely to be the increased cost to the DOE’s de rating grant.
23. This represents an average saving of around £1,000 to clubs, though this ranges from just a few pounds to around £15,000.
24. Benefits are anticipated to result from the policy in relation to helping CASCs maintain or increase levels of participation in the sports concerned. A beneficial financial outcome cannot be assessed but it is anticipated that thisshould lead to benefits in areas such as improved health of participants as well as enhanced social cohesion.
Risks 25. The main risk originally identified with this policy was that it could increase the competitive disparity between sporting facilities with bar areas and other businesses that seek to engage in similar activities e.g. pubs, hotels, wedding venues etc.
26. This risk has been eliminated as the enhanced relief will not apply to those sport & recreational hereditaments that have a liquor licence.
27. There is also a risk that those sport & recreational hereditaments that are entitled to relief will not be aware of the scheme and therefore not apply. The Department will be advising Sports NI so that relevant sporting bodies can be advised and then communicate with individual clubs. The information will also be included on the LPS and RPD websites.
Management & Monitoring
28. Rating Policy Division will be responsible for taking forward all legislative changes to facilitate this policy change. Rating policy division will also liaise with LPS in order to ensure all aspects of the policy change can be practically implemented. DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE & PERSONNEL: CONSULTATION – ENHANCED SPORT & RECREATION RATE RELIEF – UNLICENSED COMMUNITY AMATEUR SPORTS CLUBS
DRAFT COMMENTS ON PROPOSALS Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council welcomes the proposals to extend enhanced rate relief to unlicensed community amateur sports clubs. The Council would offer the following specific additional comments on the proposals.
1. The Council welcomes the indication that the full cost of extending the proposed rate relief will be borne by central government as opposed to district councils, and that district councils will continue to be compensated for any resulting reduction in rateable value through the “de-rating grant” to councils.
2. The Council welcomes the recognition of the need to raise awareness of entitlement to the relief amongst sporting bodies and the Department`s planned engagement in this regard with Sport NI. The Council would be happy to assist in this process.
CULTURE AND IDENTITY GRANTS 2016 A NOTICE TO APPLICANTS
Applicants in 2016 are kindly asked by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to note the significance of the 100th anniversaries this year of political and military events during World War One and to consider, if wished, appropriate projects and programmes relevant to these that are eligible for grant aid within the objectives and guidelines of this grant scheme.
The events of 1916 are central not only to World War One and the history of the then United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland but had a huge impact on our fore-bearers lives locally, both politically and domestically, and have continued to resonate to this day on issues of culture and identity
Applicant Groups may also wish to note that the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum in Market Square has continuing exhibitions relating to the first years of the Decade of Centenaries 1912-22, and will by July 2016 add a new exhibition on the Battle of the Somme to accompany ‘Rising Voices, Lisburn at Easter 1916’. These displays provide public access to historical information and visuals relating to local aspects of the decade. Groups interested can on request to the Museum 02892 663377 be provided with advice on source materials relating to the Decade of Centenaries in general or specific themes within it. Email [email protected]
From: Hossack, Helen [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 25 April 2016 16:50 To: Brian Mackey Subject: Delisting of cannon in Castle Gardens Lisburn (our ref HB19/16/009)
Brian
Delisting of cannon in Castle Gardens, Lisburn (our ref HB19/16/009)
The evaluation of the cannon reads as follows:
An iron cannon on stone platform situated in Castle Gardens. This iron cannon is of early nineteenth‐ century appearance and was taken from Crimea c.1855. Formerly an MP of Lisburn, Admiral Meynell participated in the fashion for presenting captured Russians weapons to towns throughout the British Empire, by presenting this example to Lisburn. The cannon has been moved twice since, and whilst it remains a memorial to the Crimean conflict and is an interesting artifact within Castle Gardens it is not considered an appropriate object to be protected through listing.
The cannon was listed in 1981.
During the course of the Second Survey, the Department looked in detail at Castle Gardens. Following consideration of all the information gathered during the survey process, the Department advised the Historic Buildings Council that it proposed to retain the 1923 War Memorial (HB19/16/006), the Wallace Memorial (HB19/16/008) and the two fountains (HB19/16/007 and HB19/16/015) on the list.
The Department proposed delisting The gateway HB19/16/002, because protection by virtue of its being part of the schedule Monument ANT 068:002 was considered more appropriate; and The cannon, known as the Crimean Gun HB19/16/009, because it is a moveable object and listing is not a suitable form of protection.
Historic Buildings Council supported these proposals.
The cannon lies within a Conservation Area & Lisburn Castle Gardens (AN095); there is also a scheduled monument (ANT068:002) and several other listed structures within the grounds – see above.
The protection of historic buildings and structures by listing is only one part of a suite of controls that helps the Department influence and manage the Historic Environment. Important historic structures may be more appropriately protected for example as Monuments in State Care; Scheduled Historic Monuments; or as part of Conservation Areas. The designation of a structure or object as both a listed building and as a scheduled historic monument is normally avoided by deciding which form of protection is most appropriate.
The Gun Trophy – a gun from a German submarine – located in Ward Park Bangor is a similar object, also not listed. There are no listed cannons in Northern Ireland.
I trust this is helpful.
Helen
Helen Hossack
Senior Conservation Architect: Heritage Buildings Designation Branch Historic Environment Division: Department of the Environment
Ground Floor Klondyke Building Gasworks Cromac Avenue Lower Ormeau Road Belfast BT7 2JA (tel) +44 (28) 90569717 (ext) 69717 (e) [email protected]
Realising the Value of Our Historic Environment Helen
LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF LEISURE & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE – WEDNESDAY 11TH MAY 2016
REPORT BY HEAD OF SERVICE (CULTURAL & COMMUNITY)
The following decisions are required: • To consider and agree the Community Support & Development Strategy 2016 - 2019 • To agree to receive a presentation on the Council’s Arts Strategy 2016 – 2018. • To consider and agree the Community Development Training Bursary Policy & Guidance. • To consider and agree the preferred option for Community Festival Fund allocations 2016 / 2017.
To note the: • 2016/2017 closure dates for ISLAND Arts Centre & Council Community Centres. • New arrangements between the British Board of Film Classification and the Cinema Advertisers Association. • Arrangements for the development of the new Lisburn & Castlereagh Youth Council. • Details of the correspondence received from the Department for Social Development in relation to funding for additional advice provision. • Appointment of ‘Artworks’ for the delivery of the Children’s Arts Festival.
ITEMS FOR DECISION
1 2016 – 2019 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY Members are referred to the presentation earlier in the meeting, by Sector Matters, in regard to the Draft Council Community Development Strategy 2016 – 2019. A copy of the Draft Strategy is being finalised and will be circulated under separate cover for the consideration of Members in advance of the Committee Meeting. The strategy sets out the vision and outcomes that will shape the work of the Council’s Community Services team under the following themes; • Building & developing capacity • Resourcing capacity & Change • Leading & Influencing • Support & Delivery Recommendation Members are recommended to consider and agree the Council Community Development Strategy 2016 – 2019. 2 PRESENTATION OF THE COUNCILS 2016/2018 ARTS STRATEGY Members will recall that the Council had engaged the services of Wallace Consulting to ascertain stakeholder needs in shaping & informing the Council Arts Strategy 2016 – 2018. The consultants have been working over the last number of months in pulling together consultation data, evaluating programs and initiatives from the former Councils and reviewing the local and regional polices to ensure a strategic fit. Officers have been working closely the consultants to bring the plan into a state of readiness and it is anticipated that this will be ready to be presented for Committee consideration in June 2016. Members are therefore asked to agree to receive a short presentation from Wallace Consulting at the June meeting of the Leisure & Community Development Committee. Recommendation Members are recommended to agree to receive a presentation from Wallace Consulting on the Draft Arts Strategy at the June Committee meeting. 3 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TRAINING BURSARY Members will be aware of the ongoing commitment, through the Council’s Community Services Section, to build and develop the capacity of local communities and representatives of community organisations across the Council area. Historically both the former Councils provided opportunities for community activists to access a range of both accredited and non-accredited training around topics that contribute to community development. These training programmes have proven to be exceptionally popular and a number of participants have obtained formal qualifications up to the Open College Network Level 3. The Council’s new Community Development Strategy places a greater emphasis on creating more opportunities to build the skills of our emerging community leaders at a higher level and outlines the need for a programme that supports individuals to access further education opportunities to develop their competencies to become professional practitioners and activists in community development. Attached at Appendix 1 [C&CS] is a copy of a draft new Community Development Training Bursary Programme, which has been designed to support community activists to apply to the Council for financial assistance of up to £1,000 to cover costs associated with further educational studies that contribute to Community Development. The bursaries will be awarded based on merit and assessment against the programme criteria and applications will be invited via an open call. The financial resource to support up to 6 bursaries during 2016/2017 has already been provided for as part of the Council’s 2016/2017 estimates. Recommendation Members are recommended to consider and agree the Community Development Training Bursary Policy & Guidance. 4. 2016/2017 COMMUNITY FESTIVAL FUND Members are advised that the Community Festival Fund opened for applications, via an open call, in March 2016 with a closing date of 6th April 2016. At the closing date 30 applications had been received and are currently at the final stages of assessment. Members are further advised that DCAL has provided the Council with an indication of their indicative allocation of £28,800, which the Council is required to match fund to the same level, giving a total fund value for 2016/2017 of £57,600. Whilst the formal letter of offer is yet to be issued, the Department has advised that this is due very soon. At the time of writing the report the assessment panel had concluded that the total recommended awards would exceed the total budget available. As a result, Officers are currently preparing a number of options for Members consideration and these will be circulated under separate cover ahead of the meeting. Recommendation Members are recommended to consider the options presented and agree the preferred allocation method for the 2016 / 2017 Community Festival Fund scheme.
ITEM FOR NOTING
5. 2016/2017 CLOSURE DATES – ISLAND ARTS CENTRE & COMMUNITY CENTRES Attached at Appendix 2 [C&CS] is the planned closure dates for the ISLAND Arts Centre & Council managed Community Centres during 2016 / 2017. Recommendation Members are asked to note the planned closure dates for 2016/2017. 6. CINEMA ADVERTISING ARRANGEMENTS Attached at Appendix 3 [C&CS] is email correspondence, received from the Department of Culture Media & Sport, in regard to changes relating to the classification of cinema advertising. Members will note that the new changes will see an end to the need for the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) to classify cinema advertising, on the basis that cinema advertisement were already effectively regulated under the Advertising Standards Authority Committee on Advertising Practice (CAP) code, implemented by the Cinema Advertisers Association (CAA). Members will further note that these new arrangements will be put in place through the introduction of a formal agreement between the BBFC and CCA, as opposed to a legislative change. Recommendation Members are asked to note the changes to the classification of cinema advertising. 7. LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH YOUTH COUNCIL Members are advised that the Good Relations team, in line with the Council 2016/2017 Good Relations Action Plan, have been working collaboratively with the Education Authority, PSNI and internally with colleagues in Community Planning, Peace IV & PCSP, in the development of a new Lisburn & Castlereagh Youth Council. The Youth Council will provide a platform for youth engagement and input into local issues that affect young people and will provide a mechanism to develop new community leaders, through participation in a Good Relations leadership programme. In addition the Youth Council will also promote active citizenship, cultural diversity, advocacy an lobbying and become the one representative body for all programme planning that requires engagement with young people within the Council and with our Community Planning Partners. Members of the Council’s Governance & Audit committee were updated on the Youth Council proposal at the March committee and agreed that the Council would nominate Cllr Ben Mallon as the youth champion to support the development of the project. Further reports will be provided to Members as the Youth Council develops over the coming months. Recommendation Members are asked to note the update in relation to the development of the Lisburn & Castlereagh Youth Council. 8. CORRESPONDENCE FROM DEPARTMENT FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT – ADDITIONAL ADVICE PROVISION Members will recall the decision taken at the March meeting of the L&CD Committee for Officers to write to the DSD to seek clarification on the funding arrangements for the delivery of additional advice provision relating to Welfare Reform. Correspondence was subsequently issued to the Department seeking clarification on the following issues; o Confirmation that Council funded Advice Services will not be negatively impacted by the forthcoming additional requirement to provide specific advice on Welfare Reform? o Details of the timetable under which funding for additional advice services will be allocated? o Confirmation that an element of the additional funding is to be allocated to Local authorities and if so how this is to be calculated? o Clarification on what role the Council will play in selecting providers for the delivery of the additional services Attached at Appendix 4 [C&CS] is a copy of the email response received from the DSD. Members will note that the Department refer to a letter which is due to be issued to the Council by the Social Security Agency (SSA), which the Department advises will address the queries raised. At the time of writing the report no correspondence had been received from the SSA. Recommendation Members are asked to note the update in relation to the additional advice provision. 9. CHILDRENS ARTS FESTIVAL Members are advised that the Arts Service annual Childrens Arts Festival is due to run from 18th July 2016 – 5th August 2016. The theme for the 2016 festival is Shakespeare at 400 and the first 2 weeks of the festival will focus on visual art with the final week based around performance art. In additional to the main festival at the ISLAND Arts Centre, a number of community arts outreach elements will also be encompassed across the Council area. The festival will cater for 48 places each week and will cumulate in a showcase event. Members are further advised that following a procurement exercise Artworks have been appointed to oversee the implementation and artistic elements of the Childrens Arts Festival. Recommendation Members are asked to note the arrangements for the Childrens Arts Festival 2016 and the appointment of Artworks.
RYAN BLACK HEAD OF CULTURAL & COMMUNITY SERVICES 4 May 2016 Community Development Training Bursary Scheme 2016-2019
POLICY DOCUMENT & GUIDANCE
April 2016
Page 1 of 5
Contents
Section 1 Introduction Page 3
Section 2 Community Development Training Bursary Award Programme Page 3
Section 3 General principles & conditions Page 4
Section 4 How to apply Page 5
Page 2 of 5
Section 1: Introduction
In 2015 following a comprehensive consultation and engagement process a new Community Support & Development Strategy was developed to shape how Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council would support, resource and develop the needs of the local community in the new Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. The new strategy provides a framework which focuses how the Council will support volunteers in the development of skills and competencies to become effective professional practitioners and activists in Community Development in terms of Community Development Principles and Practice and Good Governance in line with Charity Commission requirements.
As a result of this work the Community Development Training Bursary Award programme was developed for applicants residing in the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) area during 2016 – 2019 who are volunteer members of community groups in the LCCC area.
Section 2: Community Development Training Bursary Programme
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council developed the Community Development Training Bursary Programme to support Community Development volunteer group members, operating within the Council area, with the costs associated of completing a community development based educational course.
This programme has been designed within the context of the Council’s new Community Development framework, which provides a platform to grow and develop the capacity of localised organisations using an evidence based approach. The Council has adopted the following definition of Community Development.
Definition of Community Development
Community development enables people to work collectively to bring about positive social change. This long term process starts from people’s own experience and enables communities to work together to:
• Identify their own needs and actions • Take collective action using their strengths and resources • Develop their confidence, skills and knowledge • Challenge unequal power relationships • Promote social justice, equality and inclusion in order to improve the quality of their own lives, the communities in which they live and societies of which they are a part’1.
Community Development outcomes –
Increased community development capacity Greater social cohesion Increased civic engagement and participation Increased effective partnership working Improved sustainability and viability of the community sector Increased connectivity between neighbourhoods Early identification of local solutions for emerging needs
1 Community Development National Occupational Standards Page 3 of 5
The Council’s Community Services Unit will make bursary awards to volunteer or staff members of community organisations located in the LCCC area, contributing to the reasonable incurred revenue and overhead expenditure of a course which contributes to meeting community development based outcomes to enable volunteers from community groups to continue to build capacity of the local community.
Section 3: Principles & Conditions
The following principles, terms and conditions apply to all applicants applying to the Community Development Training Bursary Programme.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must demonstrate they are members of community groups based in the LCCC area; Applicants must demonstrate in the application form how they meet the Course Entry requirements by providing course information details Applicants must demonstrate how the course contributes to meeting community development based outcomes listed on the previous page under Section 2; All participants must have current and relevant experience of Community Development work in either a paid or unpaid capacity with the Community/Voluntary or Statutory Sectors; Applicants must demonstrate how by their completion of this course that this will contribute to their role as a committee member / Trustee in developing their skills in community development in terms of the above definition of community development and community development outcomes; Applicants must demonstrate how this course will contribute to their role as a committee member / Trustee in relation to their community group and Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council.
Bursary Award Terms & Conditions An award of up to £1000 is available to apply which covers the cost of the course fees. Successful applicants will cover costs for travel or materials associated with the course outside of the cost of the Course. Successful applications will be determined on the basis of merit. Course participants must be based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area and must complete the course within the course times specified; Should a participant fail to attend the course or show reasonable progress or fail to sit an examination without reasonable cause, he/she may be withdrawn from the course and any expenses paid by the Council recouped from the participant; Should a volunteer’s service to their community group end, he/she will be liable to reimburse the Council; Should a volunteer obtain a different post within their community group, he/she will not be required to reimburse the Council; At the end of the academic year, copies of Certificates obtained should be forwarded to Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Community Services department; Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council accepts no responsibility for the quality of training delivered. Any complaints, comments or suggestions will be passed directly to the relevant training provider; Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council requires participating organisations to acknowledge Council in any publicity emanating from the training provided
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Section 4: How to Apply
Details of the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Community Development Training Bursary Award Programme will be sent to all community groups on the Council’s Community Group database and details published on the Council website to invite volunteers who meet the eligibility criteria from local community organisations based in Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area to apply for the bursary award. The application process is as follows ‐
Step 1: Information about the Bursary award application process will be circulated through an open call process; Step 2: Applications are submitted by the closing date (No late applications will be accepted). Step 3: Applications are assessed by an assessment panel. Step 4: Assessment panel recommendations are noted at the Leisure & Community Services Committee. Step 6: Outcome letters are issued to all applicants Step 7: Successful applicants apply to liaise with community development officers to register for applied course.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD AT: WWW.LISBURNCASTLEREAGH.GOV.UK/COMMUNITY
Alternatively applicants can obtain hard copy application by contacting Community Services at either ‐ Bradford Court on 028 9049 4550, email [email protected] or Bridge Community Centre on 028 9266 2496, email [email protected]
It is important to remember that we assess your application on the information you provide. We will not take into account any information that you do not include in the application. Please do not submit additional notes, unless the help notes state that extra information can be included.
Bursary award application process timescales
Milestones Target dates
Bursary award will be open for applications – 18th May 2016 Closing date for applications 1st June 2016 @ 12pm Eligibility & Assessment – 2nd June 2016 Outcome letters issued w/c 6th June 2016
Page 5 of 5
Holiday Closures 2016-2017 Christmas
Bridge Community Centre 02-May-16 30-May-16 12 &13 Jul -16 29-Aug-16 12 noon 23 Dec to 27 Dec-16 02-Jan-17 17-Mar-17
Moneyreagh Community Centre 12 & 13 Jul 16 24 Dec 16 to 2 Jan 17
Ballyoran Community Centre 02-May-16 30-May-16 11,12 & 13 Jul 16 29-Aug-16 24 Dec 16 to 2 Jan 17 17-Mar-17
Elner Community Centre 30-May-16 12 &13 Jul -16 29-Aug-16 24 Dec 16 to 31 Dec 16 02-Jan-17 17-Mar-17
Arts Centre 02-May-16 30-May-16 11-15 Jul 16 29-Aug-16 26 Dec 16 to 31 Dec 16 02-Jan-17 17-Mar-17
LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF LEISURE & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE – 11TH MAY 2016 REPORT BY HEAD OF SERVICE (PARKS & AMENITIES) PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND The purpose of this report is to set out for Members’ consideration a number of recommendations relating to the operation of the new Council.
The following decisions are required: • To consider the policy to be adopted in relation to community / voluntary organisations seeking free loan of equipment to support events. • To consider the Pitches Audit and Strategy and approve the 6 Strategic Recommendations and 5 Operational Recommendations contained therein, with priorites for 2016-17 for Laurelhill and Billy Neill as detailed in the report. • To consider a request from Harmony Hill Community Group to present to the June meeting of the Leisure & Community Development Committee in regard to the provision of play/recreation facilities in the Harmony Hill area. • To consider a report in regard to car parking at Aghalee, and approve Option C which suggests the Council opens the Aghalee Playing Fields car park more regularly to encourage safe access to the play park and with the agreement that if after a trial period on-street parking continues, that the Surgery is permitted to construct a path and gate for patient access; no formal agreement necessary. • To approve the inclusion of the issues and possible solutions in the development plans for the Stockdam Glen / Duncan’s Dam scheme, identified in the report following a site meeting with residents. • To approve the Letter of Offer to the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club Ltd for the Ulster Grand Prix 2016. • To approve support for the implementation of the Pollinator Plan 2015-2020. • To approve officers seeking to appoint a consultant to lead on the Carryduff Greenway project and on applications for grant funding opportunities as they arise. • To approve the appointment of a consultant to lead in developing a Strategy for the provision of Parks and Open Spaces. • To note the biodiversity activities in the report. • To note the correspondence received from Outdoor Recreation NI. • To note the correspondence received from Playboard NI. • To note the recent successes of Knockbreda FC. • To note the installation of a second 20 ft pedestrian exit at Queen Elizabeth II Playing Fields. • To note the correspondence from the SE Health and Social Care Trust in regard to the search for additional car parking for the Ulster Hospital.
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION 1. LOAN OF COUNCIL EQUIPMENT Requests are frequently received from community / voluntary organisations seeking free loan of equipment to support events. The Council only owns a very limited amount of this equipment. On most occasions purchase/hire of such equipment to support such requests requires either an individual public tender or supply through the annual tender list. The most popular requests are for: a. Barriers b. Portaloos At the Lisburn City Council Leisure Services Committee (Minute 4.2.12) held in February 2003, the then Committee reaffirmed a previous decision not to hire equipment to community / voluntary organisations for events other than to groups who are using Council facilities or who are in receipt of Council grant aid for that event or a Council decision relating to assisting the event. This decision was subsequently adopted by the former Lisburn City Council. It is recommended Members give consideration to adopting a similar policy in this regard as that operated by the former Lisburn City Council. Members should be aware of a request pending from Gransha Presbyterian Church for the loan of 50 x crowd control barriers for the Gransha Country Fair 2016 on 21 May. Recommendation It is recommended that Members consider adopting a policy whereby equipment is not hired free of charge to community/voluntary organisations for events other than to groups who are using Council facilities for the event, or are in receipt of Council grant aid for that event, or are the subject of a Council decision relating to assisting the event. 2. PITCHES AUDIT AND STRATEGY Members will recall receiving a presentation from Otium Leisure at the April Committee meeting on an Audit of pitch provision in the Council area which led to the preparation of a Playing Pitches Strategy. Members requested time to consider the report before discussing it further at the May Committee. Potential funding opportunities from Sport NI are soon to be released and it is important that the Council is poised and ready to avail of these as and when they are launched. To that end the Audit and 6 Strategic Recommendations and 5 Operational Recommendations are summarised again at Appendix 1 [P&A]. In consideration of the Capital Programme and in order to set priorities, Officers would recommend progression in 2016-17: a. To develop Laurelhill Community College as a multi facility/sports hub, accommodating a number of sports in a range of facilities, including installation of a synthetic pitch, supported by an application to Sport NI Multi-Sports Hub grant funding when released. b. To develop Billy Neill Soccer Centre as a sports and leisure park, encouraging access by the whole community supported by an application to Sport NI Outdoor Facilities grant funding when released. Recommendation It is recommended that Members consider the Pitches Audit and Strategy and approve the 6 Strategic Recommendations and 5 Operational Recommendations contained therein with priories for 2016-17 for Laurelhill and Billy Neill as detailed in the report above. 3. HARMONY HILL COMMUNITY GROUP Appendix 2 [P&A] is a request received from Harmony Hill Community Group to present to the Leisure & Community Development Committee in regard to the Group`s view of a lack of play/recreation facilities in the Harmony Hill area. Recommendation It is recommended that Members consider the request from Harmony Hill Community Group to present to the June meeting of the Leisure & Community Development Committee.
ITEMS FOR APPROVAL 4. SITE MEETING REPORT – AGHALEE PLAYING FIELDS Following receipt of a letter to several councillors from Aghalee Village Hall requesting that the Aghalee Playing Fields car park be made available to relieve on- street parking, a site meeting was arranged by the Head of Parks & Amenities. A copy of the site meeting report can be found at Appendix 3 [P&A]. Recommendation It is recommended that Members approve Option C which suggests the Council opens the Aghalee car park more regularly to encourage safe access to the play park and with the agreement that if after a trial period on-street parking continues, that the Surgery is permitted to construct a path and gate for patient access; no formal agreement necessary. 5. SITE MEETING REPORT – STOCKDAM GLEN / DUNCAN’S DAM Following receipt of an email to several councillors from residents of Stockdam Glen Road on their concerns regarding the Council’s development plans in this area, a site meeting was arranged by the Head of Parks & Amenities. A copy of the site meeting report can be found at Appendix 4 [P&A]. Recommendation It is recommended that Members approve the inclusion of the issues and possible solutions in the development plans for the Stockdam Glen / Duncan’s Dam scheme, identified in the report following the site meeting with residents. 6. ULSTER GRAND PRIX – LETTER OF OFFER The UGP Liaison Committee will be meeting with representatives of the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club Ltd on Wednesday 11 May 2016 just prior to the Leisure & Community Development Committee meeting. A verbal update will therefore be given to the Committee, and a Draft Letter of Offer will also be presented for Members consideration and approval. Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the Officer’s intention to provide a verbal update to the Leisure & Community Development Committee and seek approval for the Letter of Offer to the Dundrod & District Motorcycle Club Ltd for the Ulster Grand Prix 2016. 7. THE POLLINATOR PLAN 2015-2020 Correspondence has been received through NIEA regarding the Pollinator Plan 2015-2020. The Plan was created by the National Biodiversity Data Centre to support pollinators that are in decline. It is currently supported by 67 governmental and non-governmental organisations who have pledged to deliver 81 actions to make Ireland more pollinator friendly. It is hoped that more organisations will support the Plan over the coming years. Recommendations on how organisations could support the plan include creating pockets of flower-rich habitat across the rural and urban landscape. Wildflower Meadows provide pollinators with nesting areas and a diverse diet from spring to autumn. Other objectives of the Plan are to reduce the frequency of grass cutting and the use of pesticides where possible and raising awareness of pollinators and how to protect them. Some of the Pollinator Plan objectives link into the Biodiversity Duty on Councils. For Members information a copy of a link to the Pollinator Plan http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/All- Ireland%20Pollinator%20Plan%202015-2020.pdf Recommendation It is recommended that Members approve support for the implementation of the Pollinator Plan 2015-2020. 8. CARRYDUFF GREENWAY The former Castlereagh Borough Council had long considered a greenway linking the Lough Moss Leisure Centre in Carryduff with existing routes into Belfast including access to the Lagan towpath. A series of recent events, including change of land ownership, planning applications and potential grant funding from DRD have assisted the prospects of delivering such a scheme. Officers are attending a launch of grant funding from DRD on 5th May 2016 and will hopefully have more information to provide to the Committee. Ahead of this, officers facilitated a meeting on 11 April 2016 with a number of stakeholders including DRD Cycling Unit, Sustrans, Sport NI, Knockbracken Healthcare Park, PHA, S. Belfast Partnership Board, LVRP, Tourism and Economic Development, Peace IV and the Carryduff Regeneration Forum. Strategically the possible greenway ties in with DRDs wishes to create a link between Belfast and Cairnshill ‘park and ride’ and a number of other agency initiatives and strategies. There was universal support for the proposal and officers now wish to put in place the necessary actions to enable the Council to apply for the DRD grants. Recommendation It is recommended that Members approve officers seeking to appoint a consultant to lead on the Carryduff Greenway project and on applications for grant funding opportunities as they arise. 9. PARKS AND OPEN SPACES STRATEGY Members have previously commissioned and received feedback on a Playability Strategy and a Pitches Strategy across the Council area. The 3rd piece of work required is a strategy in relation to the provision of parks and open space. This work would not only review what is currently in place but also consider the need for additional provision and make recommendations on what form this provision might take. The review would take on board the findings and recommendations of the two previous strategies and would present a report to the Committee. Recommendation It is recommended that Members approve officers seeking to appoint a consultant to lead on a Strategy for the provision of Parks and Open Spaces.
ITEMS FOR NOTING 10. BIODIVERSITY PROJECT IN MOAT PARK IN CONJUNCTION WITH DUNDONALD PRIMARY SCHOOL Members are advised that the official opening for the project of a wildlife garden in the grounds of Moat Park in conjunction with Dundonald Primary School will be opened by Alderman Paul Porter on the 11th May 2016 and Members are welcome to attend. Members are also advised that an additional request has been received from Longstone Special School, Dundonald to carry out various Biodiversity projects within their school. Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the biodiversity activities in the report. 11. OUTDOOR RECREATION NI Correspondence was received via the Chief Executive’s Office with regard to two recent publications. If Members wish to peruse these documents, then they should follow the link to Outdoor Recreation NI at: a. ‘Making Northern Ireland’s Outdoor Great’ – A strategic plan for outdoor recreation in Northern Ireland 2015-2020 which outlines the key priorities for the next 5 years. Link to download http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/wp- content/uploads/2015/11/ORNI-Strategic-Plan_2015_20201.pdf b. ‘Your Guide to Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland’ – which outlines how to maximize the potential of projects under consideration. Link to download http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/wp- content/uploads/2015/11/Your-Quick-Guide-to-Outdoor-Recreation-NI.pdf Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the correspondence received from Outdoor Recreation NI. 12. PLAYBOARD NI Correspondence was received via the Chief Executive’s Office from PlayBoard NI, advising of their recently launched election manifesto #LetusPLAY16. PlayBoard has developed the #LetusPLAY16 manifesto to inform and help politicians, policymakers and the public to articulate the importance of play within the lives of children and young people. Their manifesto which can be found at Appendix 5A [P&A] and Appendix 5B [P&A] contains 4 key asks, calling for play to be made integral to all policies pertaining to children and young people particularly those within the remit of: health, education and community planning. They believe a meaningful difference can be made to children and young people’s lives when play is prioritised in: • Formal and informal education • Health and wellbeing • Open space, recreational space, our parks and public spaces • Stormont’s wider child policy agenda In light of local government’s new planning powers, Playboard NI are particularly keen to draw Members’ attention to the third call – the prioritisation of play in open space, recreational space, our parks and public spaces – and specifically ask to embed play within the emerging community planning structure. Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the correspondence received from Playboard NI. 13. KNOCKBREDA FC On 19th April Knockbreda FC defeated H W Welders at their home ground in the Castlereagh Hills. This victory mean that the Club has now achieved senior status next year and will take part in the new NIFL championship senior league, making the club the most senior club in the Council area. The Club have recently completed the installation of a full size 3G pitch at the facility to enhance their training and development opportunities. The Club’s success on and of the pitch and additional facilities have necessitated the need for further car parking which the Club is currently investigating and trying to raise funds for. Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the recent successes of Knockbreda FC. 14. SOUTH ANTRIM COMBINE’S TWELFTH CELEBRATIONS 2016 Council approval was previously granted for the South Antrim Combine’s Twelfth Celebrations 2016 to use Wallace Park as an Assembly/Dispersal Point and Queen Elizabeth II Playing Fields as a Demonstration Field on Tuesday 12th July 2016. Following a Health & Safety inspection it became apparent that there were insufficient emergency exits to accommodate the anticipated numbers attending. Consequently officers are planning the installation of a second 20 ft pedestrian exit gate onto the Knockmore Link side of the facility at a cost of £3150. This installation will enable the demonstration to continue as planned. Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the installation of a second 20 ft pedestrian exit at Queen Elizabeth II Playing Fields. 15. ULSTER HOSPITAL – CAR PARKING Attached at Appendix 7 [P&A] is correspondence received from the SE Health and Social Care Trust who are currently exploring the option to either lease or enter into a partnership arrangement to provide additional car parking capacity within a 2-mile radius of the Ulster Hospital and enquiring if the Council had any suitable land for use in this regard. Officers have liaised with other Heads of Service including the Head of Environmental Health with responsibilities for off-street parking and the Head of Economic Development who has an interest in ensuring traders in the area for catered for. No surplus lands have been identified. Members will recall that additional gates were recently installed at Moat Park to address health and safety issues with disembarking school children. The measures were taken to prevent the limited car parking spaces in that facility being utilized during the peak morning rush hour by hospital shift workers. Several other non-Council sites have been identified which may or may not be useful to the hospital and these will be relayed back to the Trust. Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the correspondence from the SE Health and Social Care Trust in regard to the search for additional car parking for the Ulster Hospital. 16. OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE NEW BASEBALL DIAMOND AT HYDEBANK PLAYING FIELDS The official opening of the new Baseball Diamond at Hydebank Playing Fields will take place on Saturday 28 May 2016 starting at 2.30pm. Ten (10) teams from across the UK and Ireland have entered. The Chairman will throw out the first pitch. Press coverage has been arranged. Invitations will be extended to the all members of the Leisure & Community Development Committee and also to the local representatives from that Ward. Recommendation It is recommended that Members note the official opening of the new Baseball Diamond at Hydebank Playing Fields to take place on Saturday 28 May 2016 commencing at 2.30 pm. 17. MOAT PARK- WAYLEAVE ACCESS ACROSS THE PARK Members are advised that NIE have been in contact with the Council requesting a wayleave access across the Moat Park as they are bringing in a greater power supply to the Ulster Hospital from further down the Newtownards Rd. Road Service have prevented them bringing it straight up the Newtownards Road, so consequently they are bringing it along Knock Rd, Kings Rd, East Link, Comber Rd. It is a significant piece of work and will cause traffic disruption to those accessing DIIB although they will not be accessing across DIIB land. Agreed this work shall be done in early May or September to facilitate users of the Play Park from June – August. Recommendation It is recommended that Members note this request for Wayleave Access across Moat Park.
R J R GILLANDERS MBE HEAD OF SERVICE (PARKS & AMENITIES) 4 MAY 2016
REPORT
Meeting: Leisure & Community Development Committee
Meeting Date: 11th May 2016
Date: 25th April 2016
Subject: Playing Pitches Audit and Strategy 2016
Responsible Officer: Ross Gillanders (Head of Parks & Amenities)
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Playing Pitches Audit and Strategy 2016 - Summary
1.0 Background
1.1 The Leisure & Community Development Committee commissioned Otium Leisure with the following remit:
“A Playing Pitches Strategy that allows the Council to make informed planning decisions regarding pitch provision and assists with the targeting of financial investment and the planning of the delivery of sports development programmes.”
1.2 Otium Leisure have produced a final draft of the Strategy for Members consideration using the methodology based on ‘Towards a Level Playing Field’, developed by Sport England and the Central Council for Physical Recreation and published in July 2011 with an update in 2013.
1.3 The audit, presented in a separate report, also for Members consideration, addresses:
association football gaelic sports hockey rugby cricket.
1 2.0 Summary of Audit Findings.
2.1 The backdrop to the Strategic recommendations is the key findings of the audit, that is:-
2.1.1 For association football there is an over-supply of pitches for matches. However the demand for training sessions by teams/squads greatly exceeds supply within the Council area; the audit reveals a shortfall of around 173 training periods – teams presently to make use of around 20 training venues outside the Council area for mid-week training.
2.1.2 For gaelic games, the supply of pitches is only just meeting demand for senior teams whilst there is a shortfall of one pitch for demand by junior teams. Whilst gaelic sports clubs have a “tradition of self-provision” they also access multi-sports hubs for training and for youth activities helping to better manage natural grass pitches back at the club. Should the Council proceed with the development of additional 3G surfaces, it is suggested they be specified and promoted as multi-sport facilities, capable of accommodating a range of sports. This approach was adopted by the former Newtownabbey and Antrim Councils wherein recently developed 3G pitches can accommodate gaelic sports, association football and rugby, both for training and competitive play.
2.1.3 For hockey the audit reveals a slight over-provision of 1 pitch, that is, an AstroTurf ATP. With the increasing popularity of 3G pitches there is a tendency to push hockey to the side and some local authority AstroTurf pitches have been removed to make way for 3G. This has not happened in Lisburn & Castlereagh and the Council remains committed to providing 2 AstroTurf pitches, one at Laurelhill Community College, one at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. Recent AstroTurf pitch developments at Wallace High School and Friend’s School (both in Lisburn) have enhanced the overall provision of AstroTurf pitches across the Council area.
2.1.4 For rugby the audit reveals a slight over-provision of 1 pitch, counting the single rugby club’s pitches and pitches operated by the education sector. As with gaelic sports, rugby tends to self-provide at club locations, however Council-promoted sports development programmes at Council facilities can usefully complement a club’s programme.
2.1.5 For cricket there is an under-provision of 2 pitches. Cricket Ireland sees the Lisburn & Castlereagh area as a regional or sub-regional centre of excellence involving an indoor centre.
2.2 The recommendations reflect trends in the provision of pitches, especially for training purposes and the development of sport.
3.0 Strategic Recommendations.
3.1 There are 6 strategic recommendations:
2 3.1.1 Develop a series of 3G pitches across the Council area at existing facilities to better facilitate training and sports development programmes in association football, gaelic sports and rugby. Suggested sites are; Hydebank Playing Fields, Laurelhill Community College, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and the Billy Neill Soccer Centre. It is suggested that one pitch be developed at each site.
3.1.2 Develop Laurelhill Community College as a multi facility/sports hub, accommodating a number of sports in a range of facilities, including pitches.
3.1.3 Develop Billy Neill Soccer Centre as a sports and leisure park, encouraging access by the whole community.
3.1.4 Develop a multi-sport facility at the former Maze site.
3.1.5 Develop a second tier of artificial turf pitches for training and recreational play.
3.1.6 Develop a Council operated cricket pitch
4.0 Operational Recommendations.
4.1 There are 5 operational recommendations:
4.1.1 Consider the requirements of small sided games within facility developments
4.1.2 Support the development of female participation
4.1.3 Create more car parking at Hydebank Playing Fields
4.1.4 Encourage more community use of school sports facilities
4.1.5 Provide toilet facilities adjacent to the 3G cages at Lisburn Leisure Park and the lower pitches at Billy Neill Soccer Centre
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18 Apr 16
SITE MEETING REPORT
Location: Aghalee Playing Fields, Aghalee
Date / Time: Thu 14 Apr 16 @ 1300 hrs
Attendance: Mrs Pauline Buller, Aghalee Village Hall, Secretary Ms Sharon Johnston, Aghalee Surgery, Practice Manager R Gillanders (Head of Parks & Amenities)
Situation: Photographs attached. Letter dated 4 Apr 16 sent to the Mayor, Aldermen Tinsley and Leathem and Councillors Butler and Catney requesting consideration to opening a path between the Doctor’s surgery and the playing fields to address on-street parking at peak times.
Park Opening Times: The play park is within the curtilage of the playing fields. Currently there is only pedestrian access as the car park is locked at all times except when football matches are scheduled on Saturdays in season. This situation would not encourage play park usage and contributes to the on-street parking problem.
Surgery Request: Peak doctor surgery times would be 0900-1230 hrs Mon-Fri. Expense of installing a path and gate to the doctor’s surgery would fall to the Surgery. If the car park gates were open, then there is already a short path (1 min walk) from the car park to the surgery however it is easy to see how patients will want car parking immediately adjacent to the surgery and continue to park on the road. If a new gate were to be installed to enable the car park to be used as an overflow then issues will arise as to insurance liability and key holding responsibilities.
Options:
a. Council enters into formal lease agreement with Surgery to establish overflow car park. Surgery to construct a path and gate and be responsible for open/closing of main gates Mon-Fri 0900-1230 hrs.
b. Council opens car park more regularly to encourage safe access to the play park and incidentally addresses on-street parking and enables surgery patients to utilise the car park.
c. A combination of both options above - Council opens the car park more regularly to encourage safe access to the play park and with the agreement that if after a trial period on-street parking continues, that the Surgery is permitted to construct a path and gate for patient access; no formal agreement necessary.
Recommendation:
It is recommended that in relation to the request to make available the car park at Aghalee Playing Fields, that Option C is implemented.
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Photo 1
Taken from Aghalee pavilion looking into the adjacent doctor’s surgery showing the proximity of the sites and potential pedestrian access gate and path.
Photo 2
Facility access road leading to the pavilion and play park.
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19 Apr 16
SITE MEETING REPORT
Location: Stockdam Glen / Duncan’s Dam, Lisburn
Date / Time: Tue 19 Apr 16 @ 0930 hrs
Attendance: Paul Givan MLA Cllr A Givan Cllr S Carson Mr James Dumigan Mrs Helen Dumigan Dr Rachel Dumigan Mr Andrew Maze R Gillanders (Head of Parks & Amenities)
Situation: Concerns were raised following a public consultation meeting regarding the Council’s proposals to develop Stockdam Glen.
Transport NI Issues: A number of issues raised were actually the responsibility of Transport NI. Officers had met with representatives from Transport NI the previous Tue in anticipation of issues which might be raised. The following will be passed for their attention:
Creation of a path along Stockdam Glen Road from Duncan’s Road to the bottom of the hill at the bridge; Passing bay to be installed at foot of hill; To install a barrier or mark the road edge on the other portion of Stockdam Glen Road where bollards are currently in place.
Development Issues: A number of issues were discussed with the following potential outcomes for consideration within the plan:
Access from Duncan’s Dam car park to proposed path way to be on the sharp corner which gives clearest fields of view to drivers and pedestrians; Road calming measures (ramps) to be considered either side of approach to crossing point with visible signage; Existing play park to be closed and relocated to the other end of the new development where there is more room in order to remove additional traffic destined for the play park at Duncan’s Dam; Adult gym equipment to be considered along the new path way; Pedestrian access path to be considered leading from residential area of Stockdam Glen Road onto the new path way, in order to minimise pedestrian traffic on the Stockdam Glen Road; The project scheme to have an overall name to encompass Duncan’s Dam and Stockdam Glen – perhaps ‘Duncan’s Glen’;
Duncan’s Dam: In considering the overall scheme and the need to gain public confidence in the proposed development, Officers will review and address some cosmetic and operational issues at the existing Duncan’s Dam site.
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Recommendation:
It is recommended that Members note the contents of the site meeting report at Stockdam Glen / Duncan’s Dam with residents and approve the inclusion of the issues and possible solutions in the development plans for the scheme.
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We are ASKING for all legislation and policy development pertaining to, or impact ing upon, children and young people’ s lives to be play-proofed and
outcomes focused . The implementation of policy, both at strategic and operational levels must shift us from the current status quo - rhe toric needs to be translated in to reality for the betterment of all of our children and young people. A comprehensive awareness, understanding and appreciation of play is required across government to ensure that policy
making and policy delivery best meet s individual children’s needs (UN, 2013) .
Evidence confirms that the social and economic returns of investing in play will support our children and young people to realise their full potential.
HELP US to make the child’s right to play integral to education, health and community planning policies by prioritising play in:
Formal and informal education:- We call upon the Department of Education, school principals, teachers, Boards of Governors, childcare services and youth service providers to ensure that successful learning takes place both inside and outsi de of the classroom. Play supports the development of childre n’s social , physical, intellectual, cultural, creative and emotional skills enabling them to set and achieve goals, work with others and regulate and manage emotions. The OECD (2015) is unequivocal that social and emotional skills are just as important as cognitive skills. We ask that play be prioritised during both curricular and non-curricular time, in formal and informal education .
Health and wellbeing:- Play provides a natural, instinctive way for children to develop and maintain good health and wellbeing. Through physical play children can build active and healthy bodies, reducing obesity and helping to establish life -long physical activity patterns. Play contributes to healthy and confident children whilst enhancing learning capacity and supporting resilience (DHSSPS, 2012 , 2014). Health professionals, communities, parents and carers all have a key role in supporting children to engage in play. We ask that play be embedded within the Public Health commissioning framework to maximise the health and wellbeing outcomes associated with play.
Open space, recreational space, our parks and public spaces:- We call upon local councils and professionals tasked with developing and shaping our public realm - our parks, shopping centres, public buildings and civic spaces – to ensure that children and young people’s voices and views are integral to local government reform and all civic reshaping agendas. We ask that play is embedded within the e merging community planning structure.
Stormont’s wider child policy agenda :- We call upon the next Assembly to build upon all existing commitments to play including: the implementation of the Executive’s Play and Leisure Policy framework, the Children’s Services Co - operation Act, and the d evelopment of the new Children and Young People’s Strategy and the incorporation of these key drivers into the Programme for Government. We ask that all political parties and MLAs drive the play 3 agenda and en sure Executive commitments are fulfilled. Let us PLAY… make play your #Election16 priority
A Manifesto for PLAY
#LetusPLAY16 www.playboard.org/letusplay
#LetusPLAY16 – make play your #Election16 priority @playboard_
About PlayBoard NI
Established in 1985 PlayBoard is an independent charity and the lead organisation for the development and promotion of children and young people’s play in Northern Ireland.
PlayBoard is committed to supporting Article 31 (the child’s right to play) of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC, 1989). We do this through a combination of: service delivery, service development; campaigning, lobbying; awareness raising and working in partnership with others to put play on the agenda of policy makers and resource providers. The organisation takes great pride in promoting best practice in Play, Playwork and play based School Age Childcare services.
PlayBoard’s mission is to drive the play agenda, ensuring that at every level of decision making across society, the child’s right to play is not only recognised but is made a reality within the lives of children, young people, families and communities. Children and young people’s views, aspirations and perceptions of themselves and the environment in which they live, are at the heart of PlayBoard’s work. Our vision is of a society where the right to play is realised.
1
PlayBoard’s ‘Let us PLAY’ campaign
In 2013 PlayBoard’s Young Research Team (a group of children aged between 8 and 12 years) designed and undertook a peer research study with children from across Northern Ireland. The aim of the study was to identify the obstacles that children face in fulfilling their right to play.
Informed by the Young Researcher’s findings, PlayBoard’s ‘Let us PLAY’ campaign was launched in May 2014 to impress upon politicians and policymakers the need to ensure that the right to play for all children and young people is realised.
The campaign is founded upon Article 31 (the Right to Play) of the UNCRC, and its General Comment 17 released by the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in February 2013. General Comment 17 highlights the significance of play within the lives of children and young people as well as setting out the obligations of government and government bodies to realise article 31 rights.
Through the ‘Let us PLAY’ campaign PlayBoard aims to achieve:
an improved level of recognition for the importance of play across government and wider society;
respect for the views of children and young people in the decision making process; and
a commitment across government to the adoption of more creative and imaginative approaches to play provision.
#LetusPLAY16 is the current iteration of the campaign and has been developed specifically for the Assembly Elections in May 2016. In the #LetusPLAY16 manifesto we identify 4 key asks, which we believe when acted upon, will make a meaningful difference to children and young people’s lives. We want to make sure that #LetusPLAY16 is an election issue and going forward all play opportunities are fit for the purpose of play.
#LetusPLAY16 is informed by the Four Nations Children’s Play Policy Forum’s, ‘4 Asks for Play’ campaign, Tim Gill’s report, ‘The Play Return’, the two reports published by the All-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood, ‘Play’ and ‘The National Obesity Framework’ and DHSSPS 2014 ‘Making Life Better’.
PLAY is initiated, controlled and
structured by children
themselves, it is undertaken for its own sake (UN, 2013)
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We are ASKING for all legislation and policy development pertaining to, or impacting upon, children and young people’s lives to be play-proofed and outcomes focused. The implementation of policy, both at strategic and operational levels must shift us from the current status quo - rhetoric needs to be translated into reality for the betterment of all of our children and young people. A comprehensive awareness, understanding and appreciation of play is required across government to ensure that policy making and policy delivery best meets individual children’s needs (UN, 2013).
Evidence confirms that the social and economic returns of investing in play will support our children and young people to realise their full potential.
HELP US to make the child’s right to play integral to education, health and community planning policies by prioritising play in:
Formal and informal education:- We call upon the Department of Education, school principals, teachers, Boards of Governors, childcare services and youth service providers to ensure that successful learning takes place both inside and outside of the classroom. Play supports the development of children’s social, physical, intellectual, cultural, creative and emotional skills enabling them to set and achieve goals, work with others and regulate and manage emotions. The OECD (2015) is unequivocal that social and emotional skills are just as important as cognitive skills. We ask that play be prioritised during both curricular and non-curricular time, in formal and informal education.
Health and wellbeing:- Play provides a natural, instinctive way for children to develop and maintain good health and wellbeing. Through physical play children can build active and healthy bodies, reducing obesity and helping to establish life-long physical activity patterns. Play contributes to healthy and confident children whilst enhancing learning capacity and supporting resilience (DHSSPS, 2012, 2014). Health professionals, communities, parents and carers all have a key role in supporting children to engage in play. We ask that play be embedded within the Public Health commissioning framework to maximise the health and wellbeing outcomes associated with play.
Open space, recreational space, our parks and public spaces:- We call upon local councils and professionals tasked with developing and shaping our public realm - our parks, shopping centres, public buildings and civic spaces – to ensure that children and young people’s voices and views are integral to local government reform and all civic reshaping agendas. We ask that play is embedded within the emerging community planning structure.
Stormont’s wider child policy agenda:- We call upon the next Assembly to build upon all existing commitments to play including: the implementation of the Executive’s Play and Leisure Policy framework, the Children’s Services Co- operation Act, and the development of the new Children and Young People’s Strategy and the incorporation of these key drivers into the Programme for Government. We ask that all political parties and MLAs drive the play 3 agenda and ensure Executive commitments are fulfilled.
PLAY supports physical activity, improves health, learning and wellbeing providing a strong foundation for skills development
If you can do one thing - PRIORITISE PLAY!
In our SCHOOLS Children spend In Northern Ireland 22% of P7s say they a considerable amount of their one in four girls and do not have enough waking hours at school. Pupils in one in six boys in time to play in their OECD countries receive on average Primary One are school and 24% 7,475 hours of compulsory obese or overweight report not having a instruction during primary and (CYPSP, 2014: good choice of things lower secondary education (OECD, source DHSSPS). to play with (Kids Life 2014). and Times, 2015). Play must be integrated throughout the school day. or OUR COMMUNITIES Implement 20 or PUBLIC HEALTH MESSAGING mile per hour speed limits in place of Play is critical to achieving the 30mph limits. This is one of the cheapest recommended daily guidelines for physical activity - All children and most effective methods for improving and young people aged 5-18 years public health, supporting the creation of should engage in moderate to more play friendly communities, and vigorous intensity physical activity reducing inequalities in built up areas due for at least 60 minutes and up to to the volume of car users (Doring, 2014). several hours every day (Department of Health, 2011). 4
Our manifesto identifies 4 key asks, which we believe when acted upon will make a real and meaningful difference to children and young people's lives. We want all children and young people in Northern Ireland to realise their right to play in: 1. FORMAL AND INFORMAL EDUCATION WE ASK THAT PLAY IS PRIORITISED DURING BOTH CURRICULAR AND NON-CURRICULAR TIME, IN FORMAL AND INFORMAL EDUCATION. Children and adolescents spend a substantial proportion of their
waking hours at school. Noncurricular time, such as school lunch/break time and extra-curricular activities, provide opportunities for children to be physically active within the school environment. Of these contexts, break time periods may provide the single greatest opportunity during the school day to affect physical activity levels. However, a recent trend has been to reduce the frequency and duration of school break times, often because of academic pressures. Consequently, it is important that break time be included in school-based physical activity programming and policy and that the break time environment is conducive for pupils to make physically active choices. Although the scheduling and duration of break times vary, schools should provide social and physical environments that facilitate enjoyable and safe physical activity engagement in this context (Ridgers et al., 2012). Play in formal and informal education can be prioritised by:
Introducing statutory guidelines for a standard minimum amount of time for play during the school day (mandated break and lunchtimes which allow adequate time for both eating and playing).
Ensuring all school staff and break-time supervisors are provided with professional training and guidance on the provision of beneficial play experiences to include training in access and inclusion for disabled children.
Ensuring the Department of Education and other educational bodies take ownership of the message that play is not just for the early years Foundation Stage but is a critical tool for development, learning and wellbeing throughout primary education (see BELB, 2008).
Considering the inclusion of play provision to be a grading factor in Educations and Training Inspectorate’s Inspections.
Ensuring that all schools fully utilise their outdoor environment in support of broadening active and social play opportunities.
Facilitating children and young people to participate in all decisions affecting their lives, consistent with article 12 of the UNCRC (UN, 5 2009).
2. HEALTH AND WELLBEING WE ASK THAT PLAY BE EMBEDDED WITHIN THE PUBLIC HEALTH COMMISSIONING FRAMEWORK TO MAXIMISE THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OUTCOMES ASSOCIATED WITH PLAY.
“Physical activity through the presence of green space not only reduces the risk of heart disease (by up to 50%), but also has positive impact on stress, obesity and a general sense of wellbeing” (DHSSPS, 2012, p.22; see also DHSSPS, 2014). In practice play is physical activity. Northern Ireland’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Michael McBride has described play as being “fundamental to our quality of life” highlighting that it is “vital that we encourage and enable play and physical activity from an early age. …Play is a vital component of a child’s physical and mental development. Going out for a family walk in the park, playing sports or kicking a football around, even just trying to reduce the amount of time your child spends sitting down watching TV or playing computer games will make a positive impact on their physical and mental health. Positive mental wellbeing helps a person to maintain good physical health, develop their potential, work productively, build strong relationships, develop a sense of self-worth, and contribute to their community” (Playday, 2015). Policymakers, decision-takers and resource providers can encourage and support active play by:
Providing timely, straightforward and trustworthy information and advice to professionals and families about how best to enable and facilitate active play.
Making parents, carers and the wider community aware of the health and wellbeing benefits to be derived from play and playing for children and families.
Providing clear information and advice to parents on the benefits of play in and around the home and how best to support it.
Providing stimulating play opportunities that allow children to test; explore and challenge their capabilities whilst enabling them to develop risk management skills, resilience and self-reliance.
Supporting parents, carers and community groups to encourage children to play more on their streets and in their communities.
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3. OPEN SPACE, RECREATIONAL SPACE, OUR PARKS AND PUBLIC SPACES WE ASK THAT PLAY IS EMBEDDED WITHIN THE EMERGING COMMUNITY PLANNING STRUCTURE.
The introduction of Community Planning provides an opportunity for communities and individuals to have a real say in the way they are governed; in the decisions that affect their lives and their communities; the ways in which decisions are made; and how public money is invested. In every community, all services impacting on the lives of children, young people and families have an obligation to support play as a means of ensuring positive development and growth. In order to ensure that community planning benefits children and young people, it is critical that play is prioritised by:
Using “urban design and planning in delivering green infrastructure, play areas and active travel routes” (DHSSPS, 2012, p.22).
Issuing residential developers with planning guidance statements that are play-proofed to ensure there is provision for play within new residential developments.
Providing training for professionals such as planners, landscape architects, architects, engineers, housing developers and housing managers to help them to develop an understanding of the importance of play in the outdoor environment and how to plan, design and manage it.
Encouraging play providers to adopt a ‘risk benefit’ as opposed to a ‘risk assessment’ approach to creating innovative and challenging play opportunities.
Ensuring children with disabilities are always included and integrated. All children and young people must be consulted on how they want to play and have an input into the process to design play facilities and opportunities.
Supporting the development of natural play areas and initiatives designed to enable older children to extend play up through the ages (YLT, 2011).
Implementing traffic calming initiatives in built-up areas such as ‘Home 7 Zones’.
4. STORMONT’S WIDER CHILD POLICY AGENDA WE ASK THAT ALL POLITICAL PARTIES AND MLAs DRIVE THE PLAY AGENDA AND ENSURE THAT THE EXECUTIVE’S COMMITMENTS TO PLAY ARE FULFILLED.
Northern Ireland’s MLAs are ideally placed to put play on the policymaking agenda. The new Assembly’s plan of action must be to build upon all existing commitments to play including: the implementation of the Executive’s Play and Leisure Policy framework, the Children’s Services Co-operation Act, the development of the new Children and Young People’s Strategy and the incorporation of these key drivers into the Programme for Government. The new Co- operation Act has the potential to create the required synergy and inter-relatedness between different policies - combining urban design, land use patterns, and transportation systems to promote play and help create active, healthier, and more liveable communities (DHSSPS, 2012). We urge MLA’s to make a real difference by:
Using the powers contained within the Children’s Services Cooperation Act to prioritise and deliver outcomes for play within regional and local government.
Ensuring that Play and Leisure is recognised as a high level outcome within the emerging Children and Young People’s strategy and becomes a firm commitment contained within the pillars of the new Programme for Government.
Ensuring that the lead department for the Children and Young People’s strategy is fully engaged and supportive of delivering a framework of outcomes for Play.
Establishing a robust measurement framework to capture play and physical activity levels at a regional and local level.
Fulfilling resource commitments and ensuring that all publically announced funding commitments are fulfilled to provide innovative and novel play and leisure opportunities.
Facilitating children and young people to participate in all decisions 8 affecting their lives, consistent with article 12 of the UNCRC (UN, 2009).
Working with Queen’s University Belfast we raised a module on the 2014 Kids Life and Times Survey. We asked P7s: what do you think could be done (in your school or in your community) to make sure that all children can enjoy playing as much as they can? They told us:
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Bibliography
All Party-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood (2015). Play. Retrieved from: http://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Play-A-report-by-the-all-party-parlimentary-group-on- fit-and-Healthy-Childhood.pdf
All Party-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood (2016). The National Obesity Framework. Retrieved from: https://gallery.mailchimp.com/b6ac32ebdf72e70921b025526/files/NOFreportdraft6.pdf
Belfast Education and Library Board (2008). Learning Through Play at Key Stage 1 A Resource Book. Retrieved from: http://www.belb.org.uk/Downloads/ey_learning_through_play_ks1.pdf
Children and Young People Strategic Partnership (2014). Children’s Services Planning: Northern Ireland Outcome Monitoring Report with Trends 2007-2013/1. Retrieved from: http://www.cypsp.hscni.net/wp- content/uploads/2015/04/cypsp_northern_ireland_monitoring -2014.pdf
Children’s Play Policy Forum (2015). Four asks for play, for health, for children for everyone. Retrieved from: http://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Four-asks-for-play-3.pdf
Department of Health (2011) Start Active, Stay Active A report on physical activity for health from the four home countries’ Chief Medical Officers. Retrieved from: http://www.bhfactive.org.uk/userfiles/Documents/startactivestayactive.pdf
DHSSPS (2012). Fitter Future for All Framework for Preventing and Addressing Overweight and Obesity in Northern Ireland 2012-2022. Retrieved from http://www.northerntrust.hscni.net/pdf/FitfuturesforallObesityFrameworkNI2012.pdf . DHSSPS (2014). Making Life Better: A whole system strategic framework for public health. Retrieved from: https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/making-life-better-strategic-framework- 2013-2023_0.pdf
Dorling, D. (2014). 20mph speed limits for cars in residential areas, by shops and schools. In British Academy “If you could do one thing…Nine local actions to reduce health inequalities”. London: British Academy. Retrieved from: http://www.dannydorling.org/wp-content/files/dannydorling_publication_id3924.pdf
Playday (2015). Children need to ‘Play more…’ For Better Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing. Retrieved from: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzIsx5gdzeHfdXB0R1d6TUZ3ODQ/view?pref=2&pli=1
Gill, T. (2014). The Play Return: A review of the wider impact of play initiatives. Retrieved from: https://timrgill.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/evidence-review-colour-low-res.pdf
Kids Life and Times (2015). Are children getting the opportunities to realise their right to play, Research Update (98). Retrieved from: http://www.ark.ac.uk/publications/updates/update98.pdf
OECD (2014), “Indicator D1: How much time do students spend in the classroom?”, in Education at a Glance 2014: OECD Indicators, OECD Publishing. http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/888933119530
OECD (2015). Skills for Social Progress: The Power of Social and Emotional Skills, OECD Skills Studies, OECD Publishing, Paris. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/9789264226159-en. Retrieved at: http://www.keepeek.com/Digital-Asset-Management/oecd/education/skills-for-social- progress_9789264226159-en#page76
PlayBoard (2013). The Right to Play: Young Researchers Investigate Article 31. Retrieved from: http://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/yrreport.pdf
PlayBoard (2014). Let us PLAY Campaign. Retrieved from: http://www.playboard.org/wp- content/uploads/2014/11/PlayBoards-Let-us-Play-Campaign.pdf
Ridgers, N. D., Salmon, J., Parrish, A. M., & Stanley, R. M. (2012). Physical Activity During School Recess. Am J Prev Med, 43(3), 320-328. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2012.05.019
United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child (2009), General Comment no. 12, The Right of the Child to be Heard (CRC/C/GC/12). Retrieved from: http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/crc/docs/AdvanceVersions/CRC-C-GC-12.pdf . United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child (2013). General Comment no.17, The right of the child to rest, leisure, play, recreational activities, cultural life and the arts (Article 31) (CRC/C/GC/17). Retrieved from: http://www.iccp-play.org/documents/news/UNGC17.pdf
Young Life and Times (2011). Playscapes at 16, Research Update (74). Retrieved at: http://www.ark.ac.uk/ylt/2010/Playscapesat16.pdf
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Support #LetusPLAY16…
1. Sign our online manifesto Visit our website and leave us a message of support to help make #LetusPLAY16 an Election priority. We will collect these and share them on our website and social media.
2. Write to your prospective MLA’s
Contact your local MLA candidates to tell them why play is important to you. This is your opportunity to have your say by telling MLA candidates why play is so important and ask them to raise this issue with ministers and colleagues who can make a difference.
You can find your local MLA’s contact details on our website. You can also download a template letter to email to prospective MLA candiates.
3. When canvassed, highlight PLAY as YOUR issue. You can tweet us @playboard_ and tell us why play is important to you.
Don’t forget to use #LetusPLAY16 in your tweet and share the “Let children and young people choose how they PLAY” picture.
PlayBoard NI 7 Crescent Gardens, BELFAST, BT7 1NS Northern Ireland Tel: 028 90803380 - Fax: 028 90803381 - Web: www.playboard.org Company Limited by Guarantee No. NI30225 - Inland Revenue Charity Number XR86639 11
LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF LEISURE & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE TUESDAY 11th MAY 2016 REPORT BY HEAD OF SERVICE (SPORTS SERVICES)
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND
The purpose of this report is to set out for Members’ consideration a number of recommendations relating to the operation of the Council.
The following items are for decision: • Newtownards & District Primary Schools FA team - request for financial assistance to attend 2016 Foyle Cup • Collection of green fees and ancillary services at Aberdelghy Golf Course • Potential multi-sport facility development at Laurelhill Sportszone • Castlereagh Hills Golf Club – Helping Hands Autism Charity Day • Coach Parking – Lagan Valley Leisureplex • The Ulster Olympians & Paralympians Dinner 2016
The following items are for noting: • 2016 Assembly Election – Lagan Valley Leisureplex Count Venue • 2015/16 Income generation Lagan Valley Leisureplex & Dundonald International Ice Bowl
1. NEWTOWNARDS & DISTRICT PRIMARY SCHOOLS FA TEAM - REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO ATTEND 2016 FOYLE CUP Attached at Appendix 1(SS) is a letter from the Newtownards & District Primary Schools FA requesting Council support for the members of their team from the Council area to attend the 2016 Foyle Cup. Members will be aware that previously the Council has provided support for local players to attend both the Foyle and Milk Cups following confirmation from the respective associations of the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council residents involved. The request comes to Committee as the criteria for Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh does not allow them to fund travel to events inside Northern Ireland. Given the uncertainty over the final number of players involved it is recommended each player from the Council area should receive £100 to offset attendance at the 2016 Foyle and Milk Cups. Recommendation It is recommended Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council residents who are selected to take part in the 2016 Foyle & Milk Cups each receive £100 each in financial support. 2. COLLECTION OF GREEN FEES AND ANCILIARY SERVICES AT ABERDELGHY GOLF COURSE Members may be aware that the Shadow Council agreed to extend the contract with Lambeg Golf Shop for the collection of Green Fees and ancillary services at Aberdelghy Golf Course to facilitate a joint review of management at both Aberdelghy Golf Course and Castlereagh Hills Golf Course. In the agreed staffing structure for Sports Services management responsibility for both courses will come under the remit of the Local Facilities Manager. As it is highly unlikely that this post will be filled before the end of 2016 and the proposed review would be undertaken by the officer with operational managerial responsibility for both facilities it is proposed to extend the present contract to 31st March 2017. Lambeg Golf Shop continues to provide a very efficient and professional service at Aberdelghy Golf Course. Recommendation It is recommended the contract for the collection of green fees and ancillary services at Aberdelghy Golf Course be extended up to 31st March 2017. 3. POTENTIAL MULTI SPORT FACILITY DEVELOPMENT LAURELHILL SPORTSZONE Members will be aware that as part of the Council’s capital programme provision has been made to provide a full size 3G football pitch at Laurelhill Sportszone. Members will also be aware that the Council has previously been approached by at least one local sports club outlining the inadequacy of their present facilities and requesting the Council’s support in accessing purpose built facilities. Officers have been informed of a potential multi-sport funding stream to be administered by Sport NI and believe the potential development outlined in the plan attached at (Appendix 2 SS) would not only meet the requirements of the potential funding stream but would also maximise the potential of the Sportszone site whilst also providing a high quality solution to the facility requirements of at least one partner sports club. As an integral part of the potential development the Sportszone would include access to the existing indoor hall at Laurelhill Community College and the outdoor grass pitches plus the existing changing pavilion and synthetic pitch at Laurelhill Sportszone. Initial consultation in regard to a possible scheme has taken place with all partners on the Sportszone Executive including the College, Education Authority and Killowen PS. If the project is to progress to planning and a subsequent application for funding the Council would have to enter into a transparent process to seek a potential partner. Recommendation It is recommended Members agree the outline scheme for Laurelhill Sportszone and approve that officers progress the project to planning stage in partnership with all stakeholders whilst also exploring all potential external funding options. 4. CASTLEREAGH HILLS GOLF CLUB – HELPING HANDS AUTISM CHARITY DAY In previous years the Board of Castlereagh Hills Golf Club have approved a reduced green fee rate of £10 per person for Helping Hands, a local Autism Charity. This was based on the fact that the Charity Day attracted between 85 – 120 golfers who avail of food before and after they play and therefore provide valuable income to both the Club and the catering contractor. A similar request (attached at Appendix 3 SS) has been received for the 2016 event which is to take place on Sunday 29th May. Given the timescales involved it has been approved by the Director under delegated authority. As this is an annual event and is lucrative to Castlereagh Hills Golf Club it is recommended that if numbers remain in excess of 75 that the £10 green fee should be honoured in subsequent years. Recommendation It is recommended Members note the request and subsequent approval under delegated authority of a £10 green fee for an Autism Charity event to be held at Castlereagh Hills Golf Club and approve a similar green fee for future years if numbers remain in excess of 75. 5. COACH PARKING – LAGAN VALLEY LEISUREPLEX As Members will be aware parking on the Lisburn Leisure Park site can be quite challenging on occasions especially during peak hours. This issue has been further exacerbated by the recent opening of Lisburn Bowl which not only attracts additional traffic onto the site but also was the preferred parking location for coaches coming to Lagan Valley Leisureplex. Parking for coaches especially large 52 plus seaters is proving difficult as they now have to navigate the turning circle at the front of the main entrance and then park to the rear of the existing car park leaving their passengers, virtually exclusively children, to walk across a busy car park to and from the main entrance of the Centre. A number of the coach companies who regularly visit the Centre have put in writing their concerns over the challenges of bus parking and the health and safety implications for their passengers. Discussions have taken place with construction services on a potential solution and they have identified the tarmac surface in front of the Football Factory as an alternative coach park. This area would require work to provide barriers to keep out other traffic plus automated barriers for bus access/egress (these would work on a fob basis with regular drivers having their own and others available at reception). The identified area would allow access for passengers to the main entrance of Lagan Valley Leisureplex by pedestrian crossing. The cost of the proposed works to include work to increase the turning circle (reduce size of roundabout) outside Lagan Valley Leisureplex to assist coach access will cost in the region of £40,000 but given the identified health and safety risk it is recommended the works be approved. Discussions have taken place with the owner of Lisburn Bowl and he has agreed to make a financial contribution to the overall works. It is hoped to cover the majority of the cost from within the Council’s existing repairs and renewals programme. Recommendation It is recommended given the potential health and safety concerns over coach parking at Lagan Valley Leisureplex that approval be given for works to be undertaken on the turning circle and area to the front of the Football Factory to provide dedicated coach parking space. THE ULSTER OLYMPIANS & PARALYMPIANS DINNER 2016 I attach at Appendix (4 SS) information in relation to the Ulster Olympians and Paralympians Dinner to be held in the Ramada Hotel on Thursday 29th September 2016. The main focus of the evening will be to publically recognise not only those who will have just returned from Rio but also all of those well known sporting personalities who made it to previous games from Ulster. The Dinner is to be compered by Olympic Gold Medalist Daley Thompson and local sports present Colin Murray with the Mary Peters Trust nominated as the charity partner for the event. There are a number of sponsorship packages available plus the opportunity to purchase a table of 10 at £1200 plus VAT. Recommendation It is recommended Members consider the information in relation to the Ulster Olympians & Paralympians Dinner.
ITEMS FOR NOTING 6. 2016 ASSEMBLY ELECTION – LAGAN VALLEY LEISUREPLEX COUNT VENUE As has been previously reported to Committee Lagan Valley Leisureplex had been selected as a count venue for the 2016 Assembly Elections and a quote for hire of relevant facilities had been provided to the Electoral Office NI (EONI). It had been hoped that as was the case in the vast number of previous Election Counts that the facility would remain open during the count thus minimising disruption to customers and reducing the scale of loss of income. However following protracted negotiations with EONI and the PSNI in which both other parties requested we close for the duration of the count a compromise was reached. Lagan Valley Leisureplex would close to the public to facilitate the security sweep on Thursday 5th May and re-open to the public on Saturday 7th May. This would protect the integrity of the security sweep but reduce the amount of lost income to Lagan Valley Leisureplex especially on a busy weekend day. It was agreed that Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council will invoice EONI for loss of income during the closure although it is not certain given the relevant legislation that this will have to be reimbursed to the Council. However following further discussions it was finally agreed that the Centre would remain open and the PSNI would provide a present at a dedicated entry point to protect the integrity of the original search. Recommendation It is recommended Members note the retrospective changes to the Electoral Count arrangements in relation to Lagan Valley Leisureplex acting as a Count Venue for the 2016 N.I. Assembly Elections. 7. 2015/16 INCOME GENERATION LAGAN VALLEY LEISUREPLEX & DUNDONALD INTERNATIONAL ICE BOWL As Members will be aware Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council provides two leisure facilities of regional significance in that both Dundonald International Ice Bowl and Lagan Valley Leisureplex attract customers from across Northern Ireland and indeed further afield. There are many challenges facing facilities such as Lagan Valley Leisureplex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl in that they face more competition both locally and nationally, the external economic environment is volatile and in the case of Dundonald International Ice Bowl the facility requires ongoing remedial work to ensure it remains attractive to potential customers. It is however very encouraging to report to Members that despite the external environment that faced both facilities they have in 2015/16 attracted a significant amount of income over and above what were already challenging income figures. In total both facilities contributed in the region of £500,000 in over achievement in income to the Council in 2015/16 with the refurbishment of Lagan Valley Leisureplex encouraging more customers to attend both the Leisure Pool and Vitality Gym. In Dundonald International Ice Bowl all activity areas performed strongly especially skating and bowling. It is worth highlighting a number of external factors that will have influenced the income in that 2015/16 contained two Easter holiday periods which traditionally generate a high amount of income with the downside that 2016/17 has no Easter holidays. Furthermore the adverse weather experienced over the last 12 months has, at least, one positive outcome in that it drives potential customers to indoor activities. However, despite this the performance of both centres is very encouraging and is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of both operational and managerial staff. Recommendation It is recommended Members note the income performance of Dundonald International Ice Bowl and Lagan Valley Leisureplex during the 2015/16 financial year.
Brendan Courtney Head of Service [Sports Services] 4 May 2016
65.00m
NEW ENTRANCE
SPECTATOR STAND 60 SEATS
3G SYNTHETIC PITCH 100.00m
OVERFLOW CARPARKING & COACH CARPARKING
PROPOSED BOXING CLUB
SPORTS COMPLEX
rev no by description date
Environmental Services Technical & Estates Civic Headquarters Lagan Valley Island Lisburn BT27 4RL Tel: 028 9250 9250 www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk Heather Moore Director of Environmental Services
project: LAURELHILL SPORTS ZONE
drawing title: Proposed 3G Synthetic Pitch & Boxing Club
scale(s): as shown @ a1 date: March 2016 SCALE 1:500 drawn by: T Branniff drg no: LH-845-10 rev no by description date
Environmental Services Technical & Estates Civic Headquarters Lagan Valley Island Lisburn BT27 4RL Tel: 028 9250 9250 www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk Heather Moore Director of Environmental Services
project: LAURELHILL SPORTS ZONE Laurelhill Road, Lisburn drawing title: BOXING CLUB
PROPOSED BOXING CLUB scale(s): as shown @ a1 date: Feb. 2016 drawn by: T Branniff drg no: LH-834-01 Scale 1:100
About the Event
The race to secure places for the 2016 Olympic Games & Paralympic games is already well under way as the countdown begins to 5th August, when the flame is lit in Rio.
Northern Ireland’s top boxing stars are already in training, including Olympic qualified boxers Michael Conlon, Paddy Barnes, Steven Donnelly and Joe Ward, as well as the Ulster High Performance and Elite teams. Local Olympic athletic hopefuls Paul Pollock, Katie Kirk, Ciara Mageean and Kerry O’Flaherty are upping their training efforts; rowers Richard and Peter Chambers who won silver at the London 2012 London Games, have their dreams set on Rio and our double Gold Paralympian winners Jason Smyth and Michael McKillop are preparing to add more medals to their already impressive collection. Rory McIlroy also has his eye on Olympic Gold in 2016.
As the Paralympic Games close on September 18th, the focus of attention on all those who took part – past and present – intensifies, with an insatiable appetite among the public, media and businesses for more information, more insight and more stories of their achievements and experiences.
Ulster has a rich heritage of participating and winning at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. From Maeve Kyle, Freddie Gilroy, Johnny Caldwell and Thelma Hopkins in the 1950s; Mike McCourt and Liam Ball in the 1960s; Charlie Nash, Noel Taggart and Mary Peters in the 1970s; Hughie Russell, Angela Hendra, Barry McGuigan, Stephen Martin, Jimmy Kirkwood in the 1980s; Wayne McCullough, Jackie McWilliams, Diane Barr and Sharon and Mary Rice in the 1990s; and to Paddy Barnes, Michael Conlon, Aileen Reid, Michael McKillop, Jason Smyth, Alan Campbell , Jenna McCorkell, Kelly Gallagher, Wendy Houvenaghel and Richard and Peter Chambers in the 2000s, Ulster has always been significantly well represented in the world’s greatest sports event.
It is expected that there will be more athletes than ever before from Ulster competing in the 2016 Olympics and Paralympics and this will feed the awareness.
The Olympic and Paralympic Gala Dinner 2016 will provide a perfect media and commercial opportunity to officially and publicly recognise, and celebrate, the success of not only those who will have just returned from Rio – but also all of those well-known sporting personalities who made it to previous games from Ulster.
This powerful, inspiring event will also deliver an unrivalled opportunity to acknowledge not only the competitors, but the coaches, volunteers and all those supporters from our community who devote their time and effort to Olympic excellence.
Most important of all is that this engaging event will maximise the catalyst which the excitement that the Olympics brings to celebrate our sporting heritage, our achievements and our future ambitions.
Why get involved?
The Olympic and Paralympic Games Gala Dinner 2016 will be held in the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Shaw’s Bridge, Belfast on Thursday 29th September, once the Paralympic Games are complete and the athletes have returned to Northern Ireland.
The Gala Dinner will:
Deliver an outstanding high-profile event to celebrate Northern Ireland’s Olympic and Paralympic extraordinary successes, the personalities behind them and their stories of hard work and determination. (The Olympic Games take place in Rio from 5-21 August; Paralympic Games 7-18 September).
Harness the influence, significance, value and power of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio in 2016 and their values and to use the Games for the greater good of our community, with the emphasis being on positively influencing our young people.
Utilise the event, and its timing to drive greater participation across a range of sporting activities and across communities.
Showcase the work which is being carried out by dedicated individuals and groups (many of which are volunteers) across all communities to support our athletes achieve their ambitions.
Provide a unique opportunity for key stakeholders, sponsors, funders, media and invited guests to celebrate our Olympic and Paralympic champions’ achievements in a relatively formal yet sociable manner.
Utilise the event’s success to ensure that Northern Ireland’s achievements can be used to underline a positive legacy e.g. bringing communities together, maintaining and increasing opportunities for our young people to participate in sport, re-energise school sport (especially competitive sports) and choice, increasing participation rates and promoting healthy living.
Showcase the significant investments which have been made (and which are planned) in Northern Ireland by Government, local authorities & funding organisations.
Gala Dinner Itinerary
The event will be compered by two highly regarded celebrity national hosts - former Olympian and four-times Word Champion Daley Thompson & Colin Murray, sports presenter on Talksport, the world’s largest sports radio station (full biogs below).
The event will be led by our Olympic and Paralympic champions and participants, supported by high- profile sporting stars from Northern Ireland, Ireland and Great Britain, as well as news, sporting commentators and lifestyle media correspondents.
Olympic and Paralympic champions, coaches, participants, volunteers and their supporters will be recognised, with contributions formally acknowledged on the evening.
The event presents an excellent opportunity to raise funds for a variety of sporting initiatives in Northern Ireland.
It is anticipated that more than 400 guests will attend this premier event.
A Great Networking Opportunity
We are in negotiations with a number of key stakeholder bodies and organisations with a strategic interest in promoting participation and improved performance in sport, health and wellbeing, promoting equality and good community relations.
These include: Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure Sport NI British Olympic Association Irish Olympic Association Local Authorities (11 enlarged NI councils) Sporting bodies e.g. Ulster Boxing Council, IABA, and Athletics NI Key local businesses
Charity Partnership
Mary Peters Trust is the nominated charity partner and a guarantee of profits from the event will be paid to the Trust directly.
Media Partners
Belfast Telegraph is our agreed print & digital Media Partner. We are in negotiations with an additional broadcast partner to support the event, details to be confirmed.
Sponsorship Packages
Title Sponsor £25,000
Title sponsorship of the event includes:
Corporate branding in the pre-dinner drinks reception & Grand Ball Room
Corporate branding on stage set up
Corporate branding in all printed material including menus, tickets, photographic backdrop
Message from title sponsor from stage
Corporate logo & message in supporting marketing campaign
Company name incorporated in all issued press releases pre & post event
VIP table at gala event, with the company of at least one Olympian and Paralympian participant
Presentation of awards to Olympians & Paralympians who attend on the evening
Networking and business opportunities with Northern Ireland’s leading stakeholders & businesses
Awards Category Sponsors £3,500
Individual awards categories are available for sponsorship and include:
Bronze medal winners category Silver medal winners category Gold medal winners category Lifetime achievement award
Package includes:
VIP table at the gala dinner, with the company of at least one Olympian or Paralympian participant Corporate branding on stage set up, photographic backdrop, menu & associated marketing collateral Presentation of award to winner Photography with winner
In-Kind Partners
In-kind sponsorship opportunities exist for the following:
Flights (from Great Britain to Belfast) & Transport for VIP guests
Package includes:
Corporate branding on stage set up, photographic backdrop, menus, associated marketing collateral & complimentary seating at the Gala Dinner
Gala Dinner Tickets
Tickets to the Gala Dinner are sold as tables of 10 for £1,200 plus VAT. Larger tables can be negotiated. Dress code is Black Tie.
Further Information
For further information about the event, please contact Tori Ball or Nikki Larkin from LK Communications: T: 028 9042 7004 M: 07976 621055 E: [email protected]; [email protected]
Host Biographies
Daley Thompson
"Daley" Thompson CBE was born 30 July 1958 and is a English former Olympian. He won the decathlon gold medal at the Olympic Games in 1980 and 1984, and broke the world record for the event four times.
With four world records, two Olympic gold medals, three Commonwealth titles, and wins in the World and European Championships, Thompson is considered by many to be one of the greatest decathletes of all time.
Thompson was an ambassador for the London 2012 Summer Olympics, focusing during the bid stage on highlighting the benefits that hosting the Olympics would bring to education and sport in schools.
Colin Murray
Colin Murray born on 10 March 1977 is a sports and music radio and television presenter from Northern Ireland.
In 2010, he became host of BBC 2 Television's Match of the Day 2, while still anchoring shows on BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Live Sport. He has previously hosted regular Channel 5 television and BBC Radio 1 shows.
In 2013, he moved to Talksport, the only national radio station broadcasting sport 24 hours a day, and made his debut on a new show entitled "Colin Murray and Friends“. Murray hosts his morning show from 10am to 1.00pm alongside Daley Thompson and Danny Murphy every Thursday. Its content includes live coverage of sports, exclusive interviews with the leading names in sport and entertainment, phone-ins and discussion.
Murray is also the Irish Football Association's Football for All ambassador and has won three Gold Sony Radio Academy Awards, while in 2011 he took gold for best sport program Fighting Talk.