Seamus Heaney Homeplace, Burnavon, Bridewell and Ranfurly House • Corporate Events – District Wide • Tourism Business Engagement

Report on Community Development

Reporting Officer Claire Linney

Contact Officer

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No X

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To update on Community Development

2.0 Background

2.1 Community Development Update An update is provided on the following areas: Peace IV Community Support – Grants, Support, Advice, Village Planning, Community Centres PCSP DSD Neighbourhood Renewal Good Relations

3.0 Main Report

3.1 Peace IV Peace Regional Shared Space Project The project Connecting Pomeroy is currently being developed for a Stage II submission on 15th May.

Peace IV Local Action Plan At the last Peace IV Partnership meeting on 26th April there was no recommendations for approval. The finalisation of grants forms were agreed for submission for final agreement by SEUPB to allow this to open as soon as possible. The timetable for commencing the programmes was agreed as per the Action Plan. The launch of the Plan is currently being planned and a date will be provided on this once finalised.

Community Support Grant verification of all 2016-2017 is now complete and closed. Grant letters of offer are being issued out to all successful projects. The Sports Capital and development grants are being prepared for opening in May. The Festive Lights Grant process is currently being finalised to be brought to members for consideration in June.

Village plans are being finalised and final versions being issued out to areas and officers are supporting areas with delivery of projects.

Ongoing support to community on funding and development and provision of Council managed community centres.

Advice Service; CAMU will present an update to Committee for 2016- 2017 at June Committee.

PCSP The PCSP Action Plan 2017-2018 has not been signed off as yet and this is pending. Officers are working on PCSP working groups and project development to be ready to commence upon receipt of confirmation of the plan.

DFC Neighbourhood Renewal NR plan 2017 – 2018 has commenced with interim letter of offers for the technical support and projects being received for a 3 month period to allow for activity to continue.

Good Relations Good Relations has been submitted to the Executive Office with confirmation of the final Loo match funding due; project development has commenced.

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: None

Human: None

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

None

4.3 Risk Management Implications

None 5.0 Recommendation(s)

5. None 6.0 Documents Attached & References

Community

Development

SERVICE

PLAN

2017

Date 18

Consulted within staff team 27/03 / 2017

Version LJ/CIP/0.2 27.01.17 Discussed & signed off by Director 28/04/ 2017

Service Improvement Plan

CONTENT

SECTION TITLE PAGE NUMBER

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE & SCOPE OF THE SERVICE 1.1 Purpose and scope of the service 1.2 Responsibilities 1.3 Customers & Stakeholders 1.4 Performance Overview in 2016/17

2.0 SERVICE WORK PLAN - 2017/18 2.1 Budget - 2017/18 2.2 Staffing Complement – 2017/18 2.3 Work Plan – 2017/ 18 2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement Objectives/Projects 2.5 Measures of Success

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE - 2017/18 3.1 Council’s Improvement Objectives and Associated Programs - 2017/18 3.2 Risk Management of Service

Service Improvement Plan

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE SERVICE

1.1. Purpose and Scope of the Service

Community Development covers Community Development Support, Advice, Good Relations, Peace, Neighbourhood Renewal and Policing and Community Safety.

The Section also has a responsibility for the coordination of Community Planning for the Council corporate.

Community Development Support provides capacity building and funding to the community and voluntary sector across Mid Ulster. The Council's grant aid programme include community venues, community development strategic support, community development small grant, festivals and events. This is part funded and delivered with the Department for Communities.

In addition to the Council's grants programme, the Section provides support and guidance to groups on identifying other sources of funding for the community and voluntary sector.

The Community Development Support also supports local communities plan through village planning for the development of their local areas and supports with the delivery of these plans.

Advice provision is provided under Contract to CAMU – Citizens Advice Mid Ulster and is part funded by the Department for Communities.

Good relations delivery is as per Together Building a United Community Strategy. This is part funded and delivered with the NI Executive Department. The key principles are creating shared space, developing good relations between children and young people and developing cultural expression between our communities.

Peace delivery is seeking to promote peace and reconciliation across our communities, particularly focusing on children and young people and development and usage of shared space. This is part funded and delivered with the Special European Union Programme Body.

Neighbourhood Renewal; Council works in partnership with the Department for Communities to address areas poverty and deprivation in our areas with the highest levels of disadvantage within Mid Ulster: Dungannon West and Coalisland. This is part funded and delivered with the Department for Communities.

Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) are partnerships between local councils, other statutory and voluntary service providers and the community. PCSPs work to help make communities safer and ensure that the voices of local people are heard on policing and community safety issues. Their aim is to consult and engage with communities and develop solutions in partnership to tackle crime, fear of crime and anti-social behaviour. This is part funded and delivered with the Department of Justice and NI Policing Board.

Service Improvement Plan

1.2 Responsibilities

The section is specifically responsible for the following functions ensuring quality delivery to performance standards and meeting local community need as agreed through the specific plans alongside good governance across all delivery: • Community Planning Coordination for Council Corporate • Community Development Support • Advice • Good Relations • Peace • Neighbourhood Renewal • Policing and Community Safety

1.3 Customers & Stakeholders

Customers & Stakeholders

• Community and Voluntary Sector • Funding Departments • Community Relations Council • Statutory Departments • Councillors • CAMU • Schools and College

1.4 Performance Overview in 2017/18

The following table provides a progress summary and the impact made by last years’ Service Plan (2016-2017). It also details key successes, remaining challenges for the Service and how it made a difference.

Corporate Theme Corporate Improvement Actions Progress summary

BUILDING UNITY Consolidating and Develop the Mid Community Plan in draft Improving the Ulster District for final approval – Delivery of Services Community Plan launch May

BUILDING UNITY Consolidating and Develop a Peace Peace Plan agreed at 85% Improving the Plan to support and LOO due 9th March; Delivery of Services bringing diverse 2 additional programmes cultures together to be submitted for 15%

Service Improvement Plan

BUILDING UNITY. Consolidating and Explore the potential Grants now online Improving the for on-line applications Delivery of Services for grants for Community Financial Assistance Programmes

2017/18 Performance Overview

• To maximise delivery of funding in a cohesive manner to community and voluntary sector across Mid Ulster; strategic funding delivered through a partner model for a 3 year cycle with annual review • To develop a policy and programme with partners to address poverty and disadvantage across Mid Ulster • To align all community delivery across Mid Ulster; review and deliver on community centre locations • To align delivery of all plans with community planning outcomes and partner delivery; Community Development Strategic Support, Good Relations, Advice, PCSP

2.0 SERVICE WORKPLAN 2017/18

The following tables confirm the resources, financial and people, which the Service has access to throughout 2017-18 to deliver its actions, activities and core business.

2.1 Budget 2017/18

Service Budget Headings £ Community Services and Community Grants, Incl salaries 635,000 Community Centres Incl salaries 50,000 Advice 220,000 Good Relations Incl salaries 415,000 PCSP Incl salaries 320,000 Neighbourhood Renewal- core ( programme costs Dept Communities) 55,000 Incl salaries CCTV 30,000 Peace Incl salaries (2017 – 2020) £3,360,000 £1,500,000 Annual Budget £3,225,000 Income £2,335,000

Service Improvement Plan

2.2 Staffing Complement - 2017/18

Staffing No. of Staff Head of Service 1 Managers 3 Officers 10 Assistants 4 Administration 2 (1ft equiv) Supervisors Com Centres 3 (1.5 FT equiv) Total 23

2.3 Work Plan - 2017/18

This plan confirms the core activities and actions which will form your Service Work Plan for 2017-18. This should be a high level capture of the Service activities and work which it will focus on throughout 2017-18. The Plan links to the Council’s 2015-2019 Corporate Plan priorities, Annual Corporate Improvement Plan Objectives and Mid Ulster Sustainable Community Plan themes & outcomes:

Corporate Plan Actions By When Outcome Expected Priority No. 4.7 Community Planning Coordination for Council March 2018 Action Plans to be developed for 6 thematic areas; with short, Corporate medium and long term action planning

4.5 Community Development Support to Mid Ulster March 2017 Community Grants programme delivered & support to the community and voluntary sector implementation of the 50 village plans

1.2 Advice provision across Mid Ulster – benefits, March 2018 Delivery of advice service to the Mid Ulster area debt, tribunal, migration 4.2 Good Relations delivery of support programmes March 2018 Good Relations Plan delivered in partnership with the NI Executive across Mid Ulster and grants Office

4.2 Peace Plan delivered as guided by the Peace March 2018 Peace Plan delivered – all projects commenced and part delivery in Partnership and SEUPB guidance place

4.7 Neighbourhood Renewal delivery of plan in March 2018 Neighbourhood Renewal Plan delivered in partnership with partnership with community, voluntary and Department for Communities statutory providers 1.8 Policing and Community Safety Plan delivered with March 2018 Policing and Community Safety Plan delivered in partnership with community and statutory partners Department of Justice and NI Policing Board

4.5 Manage the community centres x 3 for community March 2018 Manage community centres ensuring good governance and use and meeting provision maximum community usage

Version LJ/CIP/0.2 27.01.17

Service Improvement Plan

Key Strategic Objectives

Corporate Plan Actions By When Outcome Expected Priority No.

4.2 December Achieve Peace IV Regional Shared Space project Connecting 2017 Peace Project Pomeroy in place with communities engaged Pomeroy

4.7 March 2018 Develop a Mid Ulster wide poverty community development New community development poverty programme Mid Ulster regeneration programme for urban communities ......

2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement Objectives/Projects

2017-2018 Corporate Actions By When Outcome Expected Improvement Plan (CIP) Priority Tracking Reference No. CIP3 Undertake a review of current on-line service March Improved customer satisfaction by delivering efficient 24/7 online capabilities, collate metrics, identify and prioritise 2018 services. potential new online services and ensure these are supported by back office processes through to implementation.

Service Improvement Plan

2.5 Measure of Success

Function: Community Development Grants

Performance Indicator(s): Level of satisfaction of the new online community grant service

Ref No.

CIP3 Undertake a customer service review/feedback on the new community grant online service

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE

3.1 Annual Improvement Objectives and Associated Programs

The Council has set a number of annual improvement objectives and associated programs (projects and activities) for 2017/18 which aim to bring about improvement. The improvement objectives and key improvement programs, set out Council’s contribution to the sustainable Community Plan for the District; against which we can monitor and report progress.

Each Council department provides resources to assist with the improvement activities contained within each improvement project (individual service improvement contribution activity linked to corporate improvement programs can be found in 2.3 of the work plan). The annual improvement objectives also align to the Council’s main corporate planning document (Corporate Plan 2015 - 2019), which contains the council’s strategic direction and main priorities.

Service Improvement Plan

The Council will focus on the following improvement objectives for 2017 to 2018:

Corporate Improvement Objective - Community Plan Theme & Outcome Project (Action)

Theme 1: Economic Growth • A programme of tourism activities to get 1) To assist in the growth of the local economy by more people to visit and stay in our increasing the number of visitors to our district - Outcome: We have more people working in a district CIP1 diverse economy 2) To help manage our waste and environment by Theme 2: Infrastructure • Programme of activities to reduce the reducing the amount of waste going to landfill. - amount of waste going to landfill CIP2 Outcome: We are better connected through appropriate infrastructure 3) To improve the accessibility of our services by Theme 4: Health & well Being • Implementation of a programme to e- increasing the number available online. – CIP3 enable customer centric services Outcome: We have better availability to the right service, in the right place at the right time 4) To support people to adopt healthier lifestyles Theme 4: Health & Well Being • Activity to increase the number of people by increasing usage of council recreational who participate in a healthier lifestyles facilities. – CIP4 Outcome: We are better enabled to live programme longer healthier lives and more active lives

We utilise outcome based accountability methodology to manage our performance. This tells us the impact our services are having on communities. Further detailed information relating to Council’s improvement objectives, associated activities, outcome indicators, projects and targets is available at www.midulstercouncil.org/Council/Performance (Mid Ulster Council’s Improvement Plan 2017/18) or by contacting the Democratic Services Team on 03000 132132.

3.2 RISK MANAGEMENT OF SERVICE

The purpose of risk management is to manage the barriers which prevents the Council from achieving its objectives. This section of the service plan includes space for the Service to input their key risks (in summary form), which have been identified during the business planning process. The Council uses risk management to maximize opportunities and minimize risks. This improves its ability to deliver priorities and improve outcomes. This is why the Council deems it important to link business planning and risk management. Risk Management aims to:

• Help the Council achieve its overall aims and objectives • Manage the significant risks the Council faces to an acceptable level • Assist with the decision making process • Implement the most effective measures to avoid, reduce and control those risks • Balance risk with opportunity • Manage risk and internal controls in the most effective way.

Version LJ/CIP/0.2 27.01.17

This table illustrates the risks identified to deliver the Services business in 2017-18.

Risk Ref Description of Risk Risk Rating Mitigation Activity Number 1. Failure to maximise Peace IV Shared space funding for Mid Ulster 8 Stage I complete and follow up meetings with key and impact on reputation of Council and on delivery to the partners and Stage II business plan in development community 2. Failure to develop a Mid Ulster wide poverty community 8 Research commenced and initial engagement development regeneration programme for urban communities partners and reference in community plan

Rating Descriptor 16 - 25 Extreme Risk (immediate action required) 10 - 15 High Risk (urgent action required) 7 - 9 Moderate Risk (action required) 1 – 6 Low Risk (keep under review)

Version LJ/CIP/0.2 27.01.17

Report on Tourism NI Awards, 18 May 2017 Enniskillen Castle

Reporting Officer Michael Brown

Contact Officer Mary McGee

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No X

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 Seeking approval for Council Chair and 1 other to attend the Tourism NI - Tourism Awards ceremony in Enniskillen.

2.0 Background

2.1 The 2017 Northern Ireland Tourism Awards (NITA) event will take place on Thursday 18th May 2017 in Enniskillen. The industry showcase event will be staged in the grounds of Enniskillen Castle - in the newly refurbished Gateway Visitor Centre and historic Castle Yard located in the heart of the town overlooking the banks of the River Erne.

It is appropriate that Council support these businesses at this event and also supports Omagh & Fermanagh District Council and Tourism NI in hosting this event.

3.0 Main Report

3.1 As three Mid Ulster tourism businesses have been nominated in the following categories:

• Blessingbourne Estate in Serviced Accommodation category

• Todds Leap in Best Visitor Experience category

• The Clarke Restaurant at Ardtara House best Food Tourism Experience

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: Tickets are priced at £65.00 + VAT (£78.00) per person

Human: N/A

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

N/A

4.3 Risk Management Implications

N/A

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 That Council Chair or nominated representative plus one other attend this event.

6.0 Documents Attached & References

N/A

Tourism

SERVICE

PLAN

2017

Date 18

Consulted within staff team / / 2017

0 Discussed & signed off by Director / / 2017

Service Improvement Plan

CONTENT

SECTION TITLE PAGE NUMBER

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE & SCOPE OF THE SERVICE 1.1 Purpose and scope of the service 2 1.2 Responsibilities 2 1.3 Customers & Stakeholders 4 1.4 Performance Overview in 2016/17 4

2.0 SERVICE WORK PLAN - 2017/18 2.1 Budget - 2017/18 5 2.2 Staffing Complement – 2017/18 6 2.3 Work Plan – 2017/ 18 7-9 2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement 10 Objectives/Projects 2.5 Measures of Success 12

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE - 2017/18 3.1 Council’s Improvement Objectives and Associated 13 Programs - 2017/18 3.2 Risk Management of Service 14-15

Service Improvement Plan

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE SERVICE

1.1. Purpose and Scope of the Service

The Tourism Department is responsible for the successful leadership and management of Tourism Service in Mid Ulster District Council. It plays a lead role in the delivery of the Mid Ulster District Council’s vision and values and promotes the achievement of high standards of performance against Corporate and Service specific performance indicators.

Key Functional Responsibilities:- • Tourism – District Wide • Visitor Servicing – Located in Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Burnavon, Bridewell and Ranfurly House • Corporate Events – District Wide • Tourism Business Engagement

1.2 Responsibilities

The Tourism department is responsible for the following functions:

• Responsible for the development and implementation of Mid Ulster District Councils Tourism Strategy.

• Manage and deliver Visitor Information Services for Mid Ulster through the Visitor Information Centres in Bellaghy, Cookstown, Dungannon and Magherafelt.

• The Culture change of Tourism delivery by becoming more commercially and customer focussed by maintaining and increasing domestic and international visitors.

• Build and develop relationships with a wide range of stakeholders through business engagement.

• Develop the Tourism Service through the delivery of a programme of innovative events and activities that promotes tourism that will make Mid Ulster attractive and competitive.

Service Improvement Plan

• Identify sources of external funding for tourism development, formulating fund bids and liaising with funding bodies to maximise the tourism profile in Mid Ulster. • Promote and support innovative ways of achieving Mid Ulster District Council’s service aims and objectives through the Corporate Planning process and development, delivery and review of business plans and strategies.

• Contribute to corporate developments and initiatives so as to assist the Mid Ulster District Council to achieve its aims and objectives.

• Oversee the project management delivery of Tourism related strategic projects.

• Contribute to the development of Council’s corporate governance frame work and ensure it is consistently implemented.

• Ensure the provision and delivery of high quality and cost effective events.

• Contribute to the development of Council’s policies and procedures which promote high standards of service delivery.

• Provide guidance and professional advice to Stakeholders and elected members, ensuring clear communication, and delivery of Tourism objectives.

• Work with and consult members of the public, partners and stakeholders, to ensure the provision of appropriate, effective and integrated tourism service.

• Communicate to staff the strategic objectives and targets for the Department.

Service Improvement Plan

1.3 Customers & Stakeholders

Customers & Stakeholders

• TourismNI • Tourism Ireland • National Trust • DARD • TransportNI • SportNI • Sperrins Gateway Partnership • DETI • DCAL • Lough Neagh Partnership • Tourism Trade • Councillors • Funding Departments • Event Organisers • Schools

1.4 Performance Overview in 2016/17

2016/17 Performance Overview

• Tourism deliver and support a comprehensive strategic events programme across Mid Ulster Council • To deliver Mid Ulster’s 5 year tourism strategy • Introduce a performance management approach for the tourism department. • To improve and enhance the visitor information services. • Increase the tourism potential of the Seamus Heaney project by working with the tourism industry and developing programmes and projects that will attract increased visitors to the Mid Ulster area. • To establish and develop a tourism industry forum that will engage and that work with the Council in the delivery of its 5 year tourism strategy. This forum will also support and advise the Mid Ulster Council private sector and help realise the tourism potential. To offer an integrated multi-channel communications platforms that will improve and enhance B2B & business to customer communications across the Mid Ulster tourism industry.

Service Improvement Plan

2.0 SERVICE WORKPLAN 2017/18

The following tables confirm the resources, financial and people, which the Service has access to throughout 2017-18 to deliver its actions, activities and core business.

2.1 Budget 2017/18

Service Budget Headings £ Bridewell Total (6,800) Cookstown Tourist Info. Centre Total 53,198 Council Events/Festivals Total 128,500 Flavour of Tyrone Total 33,940 Killymaddy Evans Total 33,786 TIC Bridewell Total 41,036 Tourism General Total 299,165

8,007

US Grants Total Gross Budget Income Net Budget for 2017-18 £590,832

Service Improvement Plan

2.2 Staffing Complement - 2017/18

Staffing No. of Staff Head of Service 1 Managers 1 Officers 5 Remaining Team 9 Total 16

2.3 Work Plan - 2017/18

Community Plan Actions By When Outcome Expected Theme & Outcome No.

Generate support of stakeholders via Tourism 1.2.3 ECONOMIC On-going • Development Forum Set the tourism priorities for the area GROWTH We • Comment on and contribute to the thinking behind the have more people • Communication and engagement strategy and branding, marketing, annual marketing plans and product working in a work plan with agencies and stakeholders. development opportunities across the area diverse economy. • Communication plan with residents to promote the • Support partnership arrangements locally (within Mid Ulster importance of tourism. and NI) and with Tourism Ireland and the travel trade • Act as ambassadors for the area in all matters relating to tourism

Establish unifying heritage and history tourism theme: 1.2.3 ECONOMIC Start May • To acknowledge the density and importance of the GROWTH We 2017, archaeological and heritage sites in Mid Ulster and build a • Develop proposals to develop Mid Ulster as a have more people completed brand that identifies the area for its significant archaeological centre of excellence for history and heritage. working in a Dec 2017 & heritage importance. • Develop compelling archaeological, historic and diverse economy. heritage tourism proposition for visitors.

Visitor Information Centre’s 1.2.3 ECONOMIC Start May • Measure and benchmark cross council VIC service delivery. GROWTH We Redefine the role of VICS and their relationship with 2017, • Recommend service improvements. have more people the tourism industry; functions to include: completed working in a September diverse economy. • Trade engagement and communication 2017

Service Improvement Plan

• Access to skills development • Help raise quality standards • Support marketing of the area and continuous social media presence • Review skills required to support VIC staff to work with tourism Ireland, the travel trade and deliver social media

Branding 1.2.3 ECONOMIC Start June To develop a brand for the thematic heritage proposition. GROWTH We • Comission the development of a brand 2017, have more people architecture for Heritage tourism products, completed working in a including communicating agreed brand guidelines Dec 2017 diverse economy. to tourism trade.

Local residents campaigns 1.2.3 ECONOMIC GROWTH We • To inform Mid Ulster residents of tourism’s role On-going To increase the awareness of Mid Ulster’s tourism assets to the have more people and assets. residents of the district. working in a diverse economy.

1.2.3 ECONOMIC Development of proposal for key funded projects, GROWTH We HLF & RDP. Appoint To prepare the stage 1 application to Heritage Lottery for the Heart have more people staff May of Ancient ulster project. working in a • Appointment of staff for Heart of Ancient Ulster 2017 diverse economy. • Application to RDP for Dark Skies project Application Make application to the RDP Tourism theme for a unique and opens to innovative visitor hub/observatory attraction at Davagh forest. RDP, TBC.

Service Improvement Plan

Itineraries 1.2.3 ECONOMIC GROWTH We • Develop packages, bundles and itineraries to On-going Increase the potential and attractiveness of Mid Ulster’s tourist have more people encourage visitors to experience the best the attractions to tour operators and visitors. working in a destination has to offer. diverse economy.

Service Improvement Plan

2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement Objectives/Projects

2017-2018 Actions By When Outcome Expected Corporate Improvement Plan (CIP) Priority Tracking Reference No.

CIP1/A001 • Embed the newly established Tourism March • New delivery model in place to engage and communicate Development Forum and associated activities 2018 with tourism industry

CIP1/A002 • To undertake an audit of all Council's Visitor Sept 2017 • Council’s Tourism management data and information is fit for Information Centre’s and Tourism Related C21 purpose Facilities in relation to current visitor information access points: i.e. performance measures; management and digital frameworks/systems.

CIP1/A003 • Review Council Tourism Visitor attractions/events Sept 2017 • Insight into our customer experiences/perceptions to inform in relation customer journeys, tourism our future service delivery. products/programmes and experiences, customer satisfaction/ perception and for Visitors

Service Improvement Plan

CIP1/A004 • Undertake benchmarking exercises with next Sept 2017 • Comprehension of new and innovative practices within practice organisations in relation to their tourism. tourism/destination products

CIP1/A005 • Develop an inform Tourism SMART improvement November • A resourced and informed programme of work to enhance action plan to implement findings and 2017 tourism economy. recommendations to assist in the growth of the tourism economy to 2019

CIP1/A006 • Develop and implement a marketing and Quarter • A resourced and informed programme of work to enhance communications plan to align with Tourism Three tourism economy. SMART action plan

CIP1/A007 • Conduct a review of CIP1 plan, review and revise March • Adherence to quality PDCA cycle (Plan, Do, Check, Act). for year 2 and beyond. 2017

Service Improvement Plan

2.5 Measure of Success

During 2017/18 we will be undertaking work to establish baseline and benchmarking information in order to provide continuous improvement.

Function: Tourism Performance Indicator(s): Tourism statistics for 2014, Number of Visitors (214,000) and Visitor spend (£27m) – 4.6% of total overnight trips; 3.6% of NI spend

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE

3.1 Annual Improvement Objectives and Associated Programs

The Council has set a number of annual improvement objectives and associated programs (projects and activities) for 2017-18 and 2018-19 which aim to bring about improvement. The improvement objectives and key improvement programs, set out Council’s contribution to the sustainable Community Plan for the District; against which we can monitor and report progress.

The Council will focus on the following improvement objectives for 2017 to 2019:

(i) To assist in the growth of the local economy by increasing the number of visitors to our district

(ii) To help manage our waste and environment by reducing the amount of waste going to landfill

(iii) To improve the accessibility of our services by increasing the number available online

(iv) To support people to adopt healthier lifestyles by increasing usage of council recreational facilities.

3.2 RISK MANAGEMENT OF SERVICE

This table illustrates the risks identified to deliver the Services business in 2017-18.

Risk Ref Description of Risk Risk Rating Mitigation Activity Number 1. Failure to miss deadlines for the development of marketing 8 To ensure that there is a robust marketing strategy to inform visitors of what is on offer to the visitor. with resources. 2. Failure to deliver the tourism strategy action plan 6 To ensure there are realistic targets and resources. 3. Limited resources to develop strategic events. 6 Monitor and identify needs and external financial opportunities. 4. Funding and other opportunities missed for MUDC area. 6 Ongoing scanning being undertaken by all officers. Team meeting agenda item, Officers have been assigned to investigate funding opportunities. 5. Maintaining staff morale, motivation and retention of staff. 8 Robust service improvement interaction with teams. 6. 7. 8.

Rating Descriptor 16 - 25 Extreme Risk (immediate action required) 10 - 15 High Risk (urgent action required) 7 - 9 Moderate Risk (action required) 1 – 6 Low Risk (keep under review)

BUSINESS & COMMUNITIES

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SERVICE

SERVICE

PLAN

2017

Date 18

Consulted within staff team 24/ 04 / 2017

1 Discussed & signed off by Director 28/ 04/ 2017

Service Improvement Plan

CONTENT

SECTION TITLE PAGE NUMBER

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE & SCOPE OF THE SERVICE 1.1 Purpose and scope of the service 2 1.2 Responsibilities 2 1.3 Customers & Stakeholders 3 1.4 Performance Overview in 2016/17 4

2.0 SERVICE WORK PLAN - 2017/18 2.1 Budget - 2017/18 5 2.2 Staffing Complement – 2017/18 5 2.3 Work Plan – 2017/ 18 7 2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement 10 Objectives/Projects 2.5 Measures of Success 11

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE - 2017/18 3.1 Council’s Improvement Objectives and Associated 12 Programs - 2017/18 3.2 Risk Management of Service 13

Service Improvement Plan

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE SERVICE

1.1. Purpose and Scope of the Service

The Economic Development Section provides a range of services including economic and business development initiatives, town and village regeneration projects, specific targeted support for rural areas through the Rural Development Programme and cross border activities.

The Section also builds strategic alliances with partner organisations to maximise opportunities for the District’s economic growth through leverage of additional funding or support provision.

1.2 Responsibilities

The Section is specifically responsible for the development, implementation and management of Council’s Economic Development, Rural Development, Town Centre and Village Regeneration Strategies for the District Council area and regularly inputting towards a range of other key strategic local and regional economic development initiatives.

The section is specifically responsible for the following five key functions:

Economic Development • Develop and deliver a range of programmes, projects and initiatives to support the economic development of the District on across a range of levels, including business support interventions. • Identify and bid for sources of funding to resource economic development and wider Council initiatives. • Lobby for and identify opportunities for significant infrastructure investments. • Maximise opportunities for development and inward investment to the District from a range of sources, collaborating with appropriate local, regional, national and European partners and identifying suitable partners as appropriate.

Town Centre Regeneration • Manage, develop, deliver and evaluate a comprehensive range of initiatives relating to Town Centre Regeneration. • Maximise the profile of the five town centres and reinforce the existing town centre brands of the three main towns. • Support the growth and development of a competitive retail sector across Mid Ulster. • Develop, promote and deliver a number of key signature events that add vitality and vibrancy to the five Town Centres. • Improve the townscape quality of the five Town Centres.

Service Improvement Plan

Village Regeneration . Identify regeneration priorities from Village Plans as agreed by Council and the Local Action Group . To progress revitalise / regeneration schemes across Mid Ulster’s villages.

Rural Development Programme . Provide support to Mid Ulster Rural Development Partnership for the implementation of a £10m local action strategy for Mid Ulster for the period 2014- 2020.

The support service provided to the Local Action Group includes: . Promote the opportunities available through the Rural Development Programme in rural Mid Ulster . Manage calls for applications to the Rural Development Programme . Prepare project assessment reports and monitor the implementation of approved projects

1.3 Customers & Stakeholders

Customers & Stakeholders

Internal - • Other Council Departments, Elected Members, staff and Senior Management Team External: • Government Departments and Agencies (DfE, Invest NI, DAERA, DfC) • Local businesses, social enterprises and farmers • Further and Higher Education Providers • Local Enterprise Agencies • MPs and MLAs • Regional sectoral representative bodies • Chambers of Commerce, Town Centre Forums, Regeneration Partnerships • Inward Investors • Community / voluntary sectors

Service Improvement Plan

1.4 Performance Overview in 2016/17

2016/17 Performance Overview

• 256 jobs were promoted (exceeding the target of 210) as a result of the delivery of 339 approved business plans through the business start initiative, promoting the growth of Mid Ulster’s economy through supporting entrepreneurship. • Governance Framework developed for the economic development unit to ensure consistency of approach to improve the delivery of services • Growth of the economy support through delivery of 10 key initiatives across economic development, town centre regeneration and rural development: stimulating business growth, achieving an economic impact of a minimum of £4m (value of new work won and the creation of at least 43 new jobs), 102 properties improved in 5 towns; 17 events delivered; 29 businesses, 12 projects and 18 groups supported under rural development. • Service delivery improved through development of Mid Ulster Online Business Directory with 1500 businesses signed up; Directory will act as a marketing tool for businesses and allows the Council to keep businesses informed about funding and support opportunities • Two alliances were developed (with BT and South West College) to pursue opportunities for funding and investment in strategic initiatives in Mid Ulster to contribute to economic growth.

2.0 SERVICE WORKPLAN 2017/18

The following tables confirm the resources, financial and people, which the Service has access to throughout 2017-18 to deliver its actions, activities and core business.

2.1 Budget 2017/18

Service Budget Headings £

General Economic Development 759,308 Mid Ulster Rural Development Programme 330,449 Town Strategy 828,751 Villages – Rural Development 86,994

Gross Budget 2,005,502 Income – Grant Income MURDP (326,449) Net Budget for 2017-18 1,679,053

Service Improvement Plan

2.2 Staffing Complement - 2017/18

Organisational Chart (chart to be updated by HR)

Staffing Complement 2017/18

Staffing No. of Staff Head of Service 1 Managers 5.8 Officers 10.6 Remaining Team 3 Total 20.4

2.3 Work Plan - 2017/18

Community Plan Actions By When Outcome Expected Theme & Outcome No. Theme 1: Economic Development 31/03/18 Economic Growth Business Start . Promote a minimum of 210 jobs through business start-up Outcome 1 & 2 • Deliver the requisite number of approved business activity plans for new start-ups to achieve jobs target (Jobs target yet to be advised by Department for the Economy 2017/18) T1: O1&2 Business Growth & Engagement 31/03/18 . Range of support delivered to up to 30 businesses/ social • Delivery of a range of economic development enterprises programmes . To recruit 300 participants to re-enter the labour market • Contribution to Mid Ulster employability and skills (through accessing employment, education or training via ESF programmes funding) T1: O1&2 Business Infrastructure 31/03/18 . Mid Ulster Skills Forum – Conduct a Skills Audit; establish a T2: O1 • Progression of at least 5 initiatives to address key number of task and finish working groups from within the Mid T3: O1 strategic issues affecting Mid Ulster’s businesses to Ulster Skills Forum to consider priority skills issues for 2017/18. include: . Telecoms – explore funding sources and identify potential - Skills solutions to address telecoms blackspots. - Business Infrastructure (Telecoms and Bypasses) . Infrastructure – lobby for an identified route for Dungannon by- - Strategic Sites pass and ensure mobilisation of work to deliver the Cookstown bypass. . Progress development of 2 strategic opportunity sites – Ann Street, Dungannon and former Maghera High School site.

Service Improvement Plan

T1.O1 • Development of a Corporate Framework for external • Corporate Funding Framework developed funding, raise corporate awareness and liaise with 31/03/18 • Minimum of 4 applications for funding submitted by Council. key stakeholders • Raised corporate awareness of funding opportunities. T1: O1&3 Urban Regeneration 31/03/18 • Develop a new marketing brand for Dungannon. • Maximise the profile of the five town centres • Renew and refresh the current marketing branding for through a targeted marketing campaign and Cookstown & Magherafelt. reinforce the existing town centre brands of the • Marketing campaign to promote the brand identity of the main three main towns towns at key intervals in the retail calendar T1: O1&3 • Develop, deliver and promote a number of key events 31/03/18 • Delivery and promotion of 14 Town Centre events throughout that add vitality and vibrancy to the five Town Centres Mid Ulster.

T1: O1&3 . Support the growth and development of a 31/03/18 • Develop a pilot Dereliction Scheme in one of Mid Ulster’s town competitive retail sector across Mid Ulster centres. • Provision of free Wi-Fi in each of the five Town Centres. • Reduced Christmas Car Parking Charges.

T1: O1&3 • Improve the townscape quality of the five Town 31/03/18 • Assist the Public Health and Infrastructure Department with Centres stakeholder engagements etc, related to the Design Concepts & Economic Appraisals for Coalisland, Maghera and Magherafelt (Phase 2) Public Realm Schemes. • Explore potential funding opportunities for delivery of Revitalisation Projects in five towns (via Dept for Communities) Rural Regeneration • Support delivered to regenerate a minimum of 6 villages in T1: O1&3 • Deliver Phase 1 of the RDP Villages Regeneration 31/03/18 partnership with the Rural Development Programme. Scheme T1: O1&3 Delivery of the Rural Development Programme for Mid Ulster: (i) Rural Business Investment Scheme: 31/03/18 • 20 rural businesses awarded funding to implement business - Rural Growth theme growth and expansions plans - Rural Innovation and Rural Youth theme • 5 youth and innovation businesses supported

Service Improvement Plan

ii) Rural Services Scheme • 5 social economy groups awarded capital funding to deliver Assessment of applications seeking capital funding improved service provision in rural communities of Mid Ulster

iii) Local Action Group Co-operation Scheme • Complete 1 pre-development project with project partners eg, International Appalachian Trail co-op initiative

Service Improvement Plan

2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement Objectives/Projects

2017-2018 Corporate Improvement Plan (CIP) Priority Actions By When Outcome Expected Tracking Reference No.

CIP 1 • Review Council Tourism Visitor attractions/events March • Liaise with Tourism Section to develop good practice to in relation customer journeys, tourism 2018 measure the number of visitors attending corporate events products/programmes and experiences, customer and the spend/head to facilitate consistent evaluation. satisfaction/ perception and for Visitors

CIP 3 • Undertake a review of current on-line service capabilities, collate metrics, identify and prioritise March • Improve accessibility of information on the Business section potential new online services and ensure these are 2018 of the website supported by back office processes through to • Mid Ulster FDI App fully functional implementation by March 2018

Service Improvement Plan

2.5 Measure of Success

Function: Economic Development

Performance Indicator(s): To promote 210 jobs through business start -up activity by 31 March 2018

Ref No. Descriptor Reporting Framework ED/A001 The number of jobs promoted through start-up Quarterly and Annually activity

Service Improvement Plan

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE

3.1 Annual Improvement Objectives and Associated Programs

The Council will focus on the following improvement objectives for 2017 to 2019:

(i) To assist in the growth of the local economy by increasing the number of visitors to our district

(ii) To help manage our waste and environment by reducing the amount of waste going to landfill

(iii) To improve the accessibility of our services by increasing the number available online

(iv) To support people to adopt healthier lifestyles by increasing usage of council recreational facilities.

3.2 RISK MANAGEMENT OF SERVICE

This table illustrates the risks identified to deliver the Services business in 2017-18.

Risk Ref Description of Risk Risk Rating Mitigation Activity Number 1. Ineffectual Programme Delivery & Failure to achieve Funders’ 6 (1) Regular monitoring of progress against Work Plans (2) Targets Regular communication with funder(s) to update on (1) Failure to deliver according to Programmes of Work progress /agree solutions (3) Effective Contract (2) Assisting Public Health and Infrastructure Team with funding Management and monitoring to identify potential issues at drawdown for major Capital Projects e.g. Public Realm an early stage (4) Training provided on the implementation (3) Failure to achieve targets set by funders’, potentially resulting in of funder operating guidance. significant clawback. 2. Procurement of Services & Goods: (1) Service spend not managed 6 (1) Plan for new goods and services to be procured against schedule of works and budgets (2) Not adhering to MUDC (2) Relevant staff to ensure compliance with funder Policy (3) Not adhering to funders’ requirements operating guidance (3) Staff to attend Procurement Training & relevant staff to be trained to CPD standards / CPD to lead on Procurement of EU Investment for Growth & Jobs Programmes 3. Ineffectual management of documentation: (1) Loss of critical 6 (1) Efficient archive process implemented (2) Information project files/ original documentation held on projects that contain held in structured and indexed files stored in tambour units information for Audit (2) Failure to retain original documentation as and external secure storage unit. (3) Electronic system in required by funding funders’ Letter of Offer /auditors place for management of documentation, archiving and retention of files

Rating Descriptor 16 - 25 Extreme Risk (immediate action required) 10 - 15 High Risk (urgent action required) 7 - 9 Moderate Risk (action required) 1 – 6 Low Risk (keep under review)

Report on Parks Service Improvement Plan

Reporting Officer Head of Parks

Contact Officer Nigel Hill

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No X

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To seek Member approval for the Parks Service Improvement Plan for 2017/18.

2.0 Background

2.1 The Parks Services Improvement Plan sets out a clear path of delivery in relation to services ensuring that we are accountable and that performance and improvement are key elements of service delivery in conjunction with Council’s mission and strategic outcomes set out in Council’s Corporate Plan.

3.0 Main Report

3.1 The Parks Service will continue to develop and deliver quality experiences to local communities and visitors to the district through commitment to seeking achievable improvements that generate exceptional experiences to our end customer and promoting health and wellbeing through physical and recreational activities.

3.2 Park Service users provide continuous feedback that permits us adopt and shape

our services to meet customer expectations were possible and to deliver services to an optimum level within budget and staff resource capacities.

3.3 The Parks Service delivers across the listed functions, is part of the Leisure and Outdoor Recreation Department and is made up of the following service areas: • Parks and Play • Forest Recreation • Water Recreation and Angling

• Access to the Countryside • Camping & caravanning

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: N/A

Human: N/A

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

N/A

4.3 Risk Management Implications

N/A

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 Members are asked to approve the Parks Service Improvement Plan for 2017/18.

6.0 Documents Attached & References

6.1 Parks Service Improvement Plan for 2017/18.

Parks Service

SERVICE

PLAN

2017

Date 18

Consulted within staff team 12/ 04/2017

0 Discussed & signed off by Director / / 2017

Service Improvement Plan

CONTENT

SECTION TITLE PAGE NUMBER

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE & SCOPE OF THE SERVICE 1.1 Purpose and scope of the service 1 1.2 Responsibilities 1 1.3 Customers & Stakeholders 3 1.4 Performance Overview in 2016/17 4

2.0 SERVICE WORK PLAN - 2017/18 2.1 Budget - 2017/18 5 2.2 Staffing Complement – 2017/18 6 2.3 Work Plan – 2017/ 18 7 2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement 12 Objectives/Projects 2.5 Measures of Success 14

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE - 2017/18 3.1 Council’s Improvement Objectives and Associated 15 Programs – 2017-18 and 2018-19 3.2 Risk Management of Service 19

Service Improvement Plan

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE SERVICE

1.1. Purpose and Scope of the Service

The scope, diversity and potential developmental capacity accessible to Mid Ulster District Council Parks Service is both tremendously exciting and challenging. The greatest importance is sustaining a welcoming, safe environment and raising quality standards for parks and open spaces, together with the provision of facilities that are sufficient to meet the varied recreational demands of a growing residential population. This needs to be achieved in the context of increasing pressure on public expenditure, alongside encouraging greater community ownership and involvement.

The Parks Service is committed to the achievement of quality standards across parks and open spaces in line with the Green Flag status through the attainment of additional Green Flag Awards for suitable sites. The Parks Service will support achievement of sustainable development in line with approved management and maintenance plans delivering on the protection and enhancement of the natural qualities of parks and open spaces, embracing positive biodiversity for the benefit of future generations.

The Parks Service will endeavour to actively support volunteering opportunities within parks and open spaces and encourage greater community involvement and additional partnership working between agencies, groups and organisations, exploring opportunities (where compatible with corporate priorities) to provide high quality parks and open spaces that are enjoyed by all who visit or live within our shared community.

The Parks Service is part of the Culture and Leisure & Outdoor Recreation, and is made up of the following service areas:

1. Public Parks and Open Spaces 2. Play Areas 3. Countryside Access 4. Forest Recreation 5. Water Recreation 6. Camping & Caravanning

1.2 Responsibilities

PUBLIC PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS Mid Ulster District Council manage sixteen public parks of varying sizes and facilities the largest of which are Dungannon Park and Ballyronan Marina. Some one hundred and twelve play park/playground amenities are provided and maintained across the towns, villages and hamlets of the district.

Service Improvement Plan

• Public parks provide our local communities with the opportunity to be physically active • Parks with the capacity to attract day visits have true economic benefit to surrounding towns and villages • Parks provide vital green space in urban landscapes • Parks preserve wildlife habitat • Parks and recreation facilitate social interactions • Leisure activities in parks improve moods, reduce stress and enhance a sense of wellness • Playing outside helps children to develop their learning abilities. Outdoor play encourages children’s creativity and provides numerous health benefits as opposed to indoor environments.

FOREST RECREATION Mid Ulster District Council are engaged with Forest Service Northern Ireland through the development of Licence Agreements to increase quality recreational access to forest lands in the district. The council currently hold five licence agreements with Forest Service for recreational use. The contribution of forest recreation province wide was measured in a recent survey completed by Forest Service in 2014. Some 65,000 visits were estimated to have taken place at Drum Manor Forest Park, one Mid Ulster Forest site to be included in the survey. • An estimated 4.7 million visits were taken to Northern Ireland forests on the Forest Service Forest Estate in 2014. • An average of £20 (including accommodation) was spent during visits taken to the surveyed forests, of this total an average of around £3 was spent within the forest. • 80% of visitors are adults (aged 16 or older) • The estimated total annual spend during trips that involve visiting a publicly accessible Forest Service location (including any amounts spent on accommodation) is £76.1 million. • The most popular activities on visits to the surveyed forests were walking (75% of visits) and dog walking (34% of visits).

COUNTRYSIDE ACCESS AND WATER RECREATION Mid Ulster District Council manages one significant water recreation facility at Ballyronan Marina, almost 150 kilometres of cycle and walking trails along with 22 kilometres of designated canoe trail and nine angling facilities (two game and seven coarse) across the district. These include amenities such as the Coalisland Canal Trail, Clogher Valley/Carleton Trial, riverside walks at Dunamore, Augher and Cots Lane and Ardtrea. Angling facilities at coarse waters Creeve, Enagh and Carrick Lough and Game fishing at Dungannon Park and Bradley lake. In addition to this the Council has a statutory responsibility to manage Access to the Countryside under the Access to the Countryside (NI) Order 1983, district councils have a duty “to assert, protect and keep open and free from obstruction or encroachment, any public right of way....”. They are also given discretionary powers to repair and maintain rights of way, to create, divert or close public paths and to make access agreements or orders to open land. The socio-economic and wider health benefits attached to access to outdoor activities and recreation is widely known that sport helps to reduce incidents of heart disease

Service Improvement Plan

and obesity. According to ‘Sport Matters: The Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation in Northern Ireland, 2009-19’, sport and recreation is one of the best investments that can be made in preventive medicine. Significantly the strategy adds: “Outdoor recreation is widely recognised as a positive force. It can build lasting relationships between people and often people from different social and religious backgrounds.” There are many UK studies that highlight that outdoor recreation has a positive impact on: • Health and fitness; • Quality of life; • Work ethic and productivity; • Inward investment; and • Reduction in crime.

CAMPING AND CARAVANNING Visitors to Mid Ulster can choose from three council managed campsite facilities, Dungannon Park, Ballyronan Marina and Round Lake, Fivemiletown. Forty-eight serviced caravan pitches are available for hire throughout the thirty week season. Larger groups can be accommodated such as caravan clubs at Dungannon Park with capacity to welcome in excess of eighty units. New visitor facilities have been developed and refurbished at Dungannon Park and Ballyronan Marina for the 2017/18 season, which include upgraded visitor centre and shower blocks. Mid Ulster District Council sites recorded 1,094 visiting caravan units and 110 tent units to managed locations in 2016-17 season. The potential to increase visitor footfall through campsite development is an option being considered with Forest Service.

1.3 Customers & Stakeholders

The following list of contacts illustrates the nature and range of stakeholder relationships that exist between the Parks Service and other Council functions, public and private sector organisations, the community and voluntary sectors and is not inexhaustible given that new situations and opportunities arise throughout the course of service planning and delivery.

Customers & Stakeholders

• CHIEF EXECUTIVE • ELECTED MEMBERS • STAFF • ENVIRONMENT & PROPERTY SERVICES • ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH • TOURISM & EVENTS • FINANCE • TECHNICAL SERVICES • COMMUNITY SERVICES • HUMAN RESOURCES • LEISURE SERVICES

Service Improvement Plan

• ARTS & CULTURE • LEGAL SERVICES • PLANNING SERVICES • ICT • HEALTH & SAFETY & RISK MANAGEMENT • POLICING & COMMUNITY SAFETY PARTNERSHIP • MARKETING & COMMUNICATION • VISITORS/TOURISTS • GENERAL PUBLIC • FOREST SERVICE NI • OUTDOOR RECREATION NI • PSNI • COMMUNITY GROUPS • DEPARTMENT FOR INFRASTRUCTURE • SPORTS CLUBS/ANGLING, CYCLING, RUNNER AND WALKERS • TOURISM NI • SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES (NI) INTER-ANGENCY FORUM • DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ENVIRONMRNT & RURAL AFFAIRS

1.4 Performance Overview in 2016/17

2016/17 Performance Overview

• Completion of Five Year Parks and Play Strategy 2017 – 2022 which was an objective on the Council’s Corporate Improvement Plan 2016/17 • Completion of Five Year Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2017 – 2022 which was an objective on Council’s Corporate Improvement Plan 2016/17 • Countryside Access development actions associated to Public Rights of Ways which was an objective on the Council’s Corporate Improvement Plan 2016/17 • Completion of three Parks Safety Audits at main recreation sites which was an objective on the Council’s Corporate Improvement Plan 2016/17 • Staff Recruitment completed for four posts • Staff Sickness levels maintained under council threshold 5% • Increased income for 2016/17 Parks £14,705 to £75,250 (25.7% increase) • Successful Programme of Summer and Festive public events across Parks venues • Refurbishment of Ballyronan Camp site visitor amenities • Refurbishment of Dunnamore Community Riverside walk • National Blue flag Award for Ballyronan Marina • National Green Flag Awards for Dungannon Park and Maghera Walled Garden • Northern Ireland Green Ways Competitive Selection Programme

Service Improvement Plan

2.0 SERVICE WORKPLAN 2017/18

The following tables confirm the resources, financial and people, which the Service has access to throughout 2017-18 to deliver its actions, activities and core business.

2.1 Budget 2017/18

Service Budget Headings £

Salaries and Wages 614,521.00 Parks Service Operational Budget 436,063.00

Gross Budget 1,050,584.00 Income (83,872.00) Net Budget for 2017-18 966,712.00

Service Improvement Plan

2.2 Staffing Complement - 2017/18

Staffing No. of Staff Head of Service 1 Managers 1 Officers 1 Receptionists 2PT/2Casual 4 Senior Wardens 2 Play Park Inspectors 3 Park Wardens 2 Park/Marina Attendants 10 Play Park Attendants 14 Park Attendants (Casual) 7 Total 45

2.3 Work Plan - 2017/18

Community Plan Theme & Outcome No. Actions By When Outcome Expected

2.2.3 INFRASTRUCTURE We increasingly value • Establish an extension of Licence Sept • Creation of increased recreational access and our environment and enhance it for our Agreements with Forest Service NI 2017 development proposals for regional multi- children - Increase the protection , access and activity hubs at Drum Manor and Parkanaur develop the potential of our heritage assets, Forests and at local multi-activity hubs at both natural and man-made, including our Knockmany, Drumcairne, Portglenone, Lough strategic visitor sites; Seamus Heaney, Fea Wood and Brantry Forest Projects in Countryside, O'Neill Heritage; Lough Neagh; partnership with local community groups with Sperrins; Beaghmore and forests. a proposal of six new agreements

2.2.3 INFRASTRUCTURE We increasingly value • Improved maintenance levels across June • Develop an agreed maintenance programme our environment and enhance it for our Parks and Outdoor Recreation 2017 with Property Services to include all children - Increase the protection , access and Properties recreation facilities within Mid Ulster District develop the potential of our heritage assets, Council both natural and man-made, including our strategic visitor sites; Seamus Heaney, • Operational management of MUDC April • Deliver a range of programmes and actions Countryside, O'Neill Heritage; Lough Neagh; Parks, Play and Outdoor Recreation 2017- designed to meet the designated criteria and Sperrins; Beaghmore and forests. facilities March objectives associated to the achievement of 2018 National Green and Blue Flag Award Standards for Parks and inland Marina amenities

Service Improvement Plan

2.2.3 INFRASTRUCTURE We increasingly value • Revision and extension of Service March • Review existing and develop new SLA’s where our environment and enhance it for our Level Agreements 2018 appropriate for the provision of children - Increase the protection , access and recreational/maintenance services with local develop the potential of our heritage assets, community in line with Council delivery both natural and man-made, including our objectives strategic visitor sites; Seamus Heaney, Countryside, O'Neill Heritage; Lough Neagh; Sperrins; Beaghmore and forests.

2.2.3 INFRASTRUCTURE We increasingly value • Undertake Master Planning and March • Initiate one Regional Master Plan from the our environment and enhance it for our feasibility studies for selected MUDC 2018 selected proposals: Ballyronan & Traad Point, children - Increase the protection , access and Regional and Local Multi-Activity Hubs Drum Manor Forest Park, Parkanaur Forest develop the potential of our heritage assets, Park and Upperlands Estate. both natural and man-made, including our Jan • Complete one Local development Master Plan strategic visitor sites; Seamus Heaney, 2018 from the selected proposals: Brantry Lough & Countryside, O'Neill Heritage; Lough Neagh; Forest, Knockmany, Drumcairne Forest Sperrins; Beaghmore and forests.

2.2.3 INFRASTRUCTURE We increasingly value • Conformity to The Reservoir Act (NI) June • Appointment of Specialist Consultancy team our environment and enhance it for our 2015 Water Regulations 2017 to conduct stage two Section 10 Inspection children - Increase the protection , access and Report and action plan for Dungannon Park develop the potential of our heritage assets, Lake and Ballysaggart Lough both natural and man-made, including our strategic visitor sites; Seamus Heaney, Countryside, O'Neill Heritage; Lough Neagh; Sperrins; Beaghmore and forests.

Service Improvement Plan

2.2.3 INFRASTRUCTURE We increasingly value • Access to the Countryside 2017-18 • Proactively support the development of a our environment and enhance it for our development via long distance trails Blueway Trail on the lower Bann in children - Increase the protection , access and partnership with Waterways Ireland, Mid and develop the potential of our heritage assets, East Antrim and Causeway Coast and Glens both natural and man-made, including our Council’s and other associated stakeholders strategic visitor sites; Seamus Heaney, Countryside, O'Neill Heritage; Lough Neagh; Sperrins; Beaghmore and forests.

2.2.5 INFRASTRUCTURE We increasingly value • Continue to support the development 2017 -18 • Respond to funding application time tables our environment and enhance it for our of the Ulster Canal Greenway and and associated stages of the competitive children - Progress the re-instatement of the Clogher Valley Greenway projects grants programme Ulster Canal and its greenway links. with DFI’s competitive grant process

4.1.3 HEALTH & WELLBEING We are better • Create and support opportunities for 2017-18 • Delivery of 3 Stand out Park Events as part of enabled to live longer and healthire and more event and activity programmes at the MUDC’s Corporate Events calendar at three active lives- Deliver a recreation and active core locations of Dungannon Park, venues Dungannon Park, Railway Parks and

lifestyle plan which will provide formal and Ballyronan Marina and Round Lake, Ballyronan Marina Fivemiletown informal recreation and play opportunities.

• Create and support opportunities for 2017-18 • Deliver 8 Significant Events as part of Parks event and activity programmes in programme of public and community events Forest & Countryside venues calendar managed by Mid Ulster District Council • Launch Parks Marketing Plan in Jan 2018 • Delivery of integrated marketing plan for conjunction with MUDC Marketing & Parks Spring/Summer events Programme Communications

Service Improvement Plan

4.1.3 HEALTH & WELLBEING We are better enabled to live longer and healthire and more • MUDC Play Parks Improvements March • Complete the development and active lives- Deliver a recreation and active Programme 2018 refurbishment of 5 children’s play parks as lifestyle plan which will provide formal and part of an annual rolling capital works schedule in conjunction with the Rural informal recreation and play opportunities. development Programme

4.1.3 HEALTH & WELLBEING We are better enabled to live longer and healthire and more • Develop Regional Inclusive Play Hub March • Initiate a project to create MUDC’s first active lives- Deliver a recreation and active 2018 Inclusive Play Hub at one of the proposed lifestyle plan which will provide formal and locations: Ballyronan Marina or Dungannon Park informal recreation and play opportunities.

4.1.3 HEALTH & WELLBEING We are better • Extension to Staff Resource Sept • Recruitment of Parks Officer Post as approved enabled to live longer and healthire and more 2017 in 2017/18 Parks budget allocation active lives- Deliver a recreation and active lifestyle plan which will provide formal and informal recreation and play opportunities.

Service Improvement Plan

4.1.3 HEALTH & WELLBEING We are better enabled to live longer and healthire and more • Interactive Operational Staff Rota Sept • Creation of ‘live’ staff rota scheduling active lives- Deliver a recreation and active Management System 2017 programme to enable effective lifestyle plan which will provide formal and communications between employee and line manager and the efficient application of staff informal recreation and play opportunities. resource

4.1.3 HEALTH & WELLBEING We are better • Parks and Outdoor Recreation Events March • Creation of new Parks Events Planning enabled to live longer and healthire and more Planning Procedure 2018 proforma and associated actions to streamline active lives- Deliver a recreation and active current process. Make available down lifestyle plan which will provide formal and loadable version of bookings application proforma to general public on council web informal recreation and play opportunities. page

Service Improvement Plan

2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement Objectives/Projects

2017-2018 Actions By When Outcome Expected Corporate Improvement Plan (CIP) Priority Tracking Reference No.

CIP3/A005 Undertake a review of current on-line service capabilities, collate metrics, identify and prioritise March 18 Improved customer satisfaction by delivering efficient 24/7 potential new online services and ensure these are online services. supported by back office processes through to implementation. Milestone: Audit of facility Usage CIP 4/A002 Key Actions: To support people (1) Audit of footfall/visitor numbers at March 18 (1a) Baseline of usage statistics established to adopt healthier facilities/events/programmes and analysis patterns March 18 (1b) Audit undertaken of facility usage for women/girls, disabled, lifestyles by of facility usage those living in areas of social need increasing usage of (2) Identify opportunities to coordinate March 18 (2) Audit of potential activity and promotions completed by council recreational programming, events/attractions a March 2018 facilities. (3) Appointment Sales Officer Sept 2017 (3) Appoint Sales Officer by September 2017 (4) Audit of participation among traditionally Sept 2017 (4a) Customer survey developed for users and non-users by underrepresented groups which include: September 2017 •Women and girls Sept 2017 (4b) Facility programmes plan developed by September 2017 •People with a disability; and •Those living in areas of greatest social need

CIP 4/A004 Milestone: Development of proposals for Key To support people Capital Projects March 18 (1) By March 2018 establish programme of work for Key Capital to adopt healthier Key Actions: Schemes including lifestyles by (1) Appoint integrated consultancy teams to (a) Gortgonis increasing usage of develop proposals for Key Capital Projects (b) Dng Leisure Centre council recreational (2) Gortgonis, (c) Railway Park facilities. (3) Dungannon Leisure Centre March 19 (2) By March 2019 establish programme of work for Key Capital (4) Railway Park Schemes including (5) Play Park Projects (d) Play Parks (e) Parks

2.5 Measure of Success

PARKS NOT INCLUDED, SERVICES WITH A STATUORY REQUIREMENT TO REPORT ONLY

Function: Performance Indicator(s):

Ref No.

Function: Performance Indicator(s):

Ref No.

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE

3.1 Annual Improvement Objectives and Associated Programs

The Council will focus on the following improvement objectives for 2017-18 and 2018-19:

Corporate Improvement Objective Community Plan Theme & Outcome Project (Action)

1 To assist in the growth of the local economy by increasing the number of visitors to our district

Theme 1: Economic Growth

Outcome: We have more people working in a diverse economy A programme of tourism activities to get more people to visit and stay in our district

Why we are doing it? Tourism has been recognised an economic driver by the Council. . Enhancing the role of tourism, as an economic activity, will require local agencies, stakeholders and residents to understand its’ potential to sustain and increase the 3,000 plus tourism and tourism related jobs in the district. The industry currently helps to sustain local facilities like outdoor sites, arts centres, cafes and restaurants) and assists businesses to realise tourism as a year round sector. Opportunities for tourism growth lie in galvanising existing and new tourism propositions into a unified tourism product or destination and capitalising on Mid Ulster’s central geographical position in Northern Ireland, within an hour’s drive of the Causeway Coast, North West, Fermanagh Lakes, Belfast and cross border destinations. Destinations only succeed when public and private sectors work together and the wider community commits to tourism, this requires a new approach to partnership, and building on previous successes.

Mid Ulster has scope to grow within the Tourism marketplace. In 2014 the number of visitors to the district stood at 214,000 with a visitor spend of £27 million , equivalent to only 4.6% of NI overnight trips and 3.6% of NI spend in 2014. In essence, Mid Ulster is a

Service Improvement Plan

developing destination and as such has not yet fulfilled its potential. The challenge is to cohere Mid Ulster’s tourism assets and attributes, support the dispersal of visitor spend and investment across the area and provide an offering for visitors to visit and stay in our district (boost visitation and spend).

2 To help manage our waste and environment by reducing the amount of waste going to landfill.

Theme 2: Infrastructure

Outcome: We are better connected through appropriate infrastructure Programme of activities to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill

Theme 4: Health & Well Being

Outcome: We have better availability to right the service, in the right place at the right timeProgramme of activities to sustain clean, safe and vibrant communities (clean neighbourhood)

Why we are doing it? 2 a). Reduce the amount of waste going to landfill Landfill is the disposal of waste which cannot be reused, recycled or recovered, into or onto land and forms the lowest aspect of the European Waste framework Directive’s waste hierarchy. The landfilling of waste, especially biodegradable waste, can cause environmental damage by polluting the environment and producing greenhouse gases (waste sent to landfill produces methane), which contribute to climate change. We want to move towards a ‘zero waste economy’ but This doesn’t mean that no waste exists, but rather a society where resources are fully valued, financially and environmentally. It means we reduce, reuse and recycle all we can, and throw things away only as a last resort. The UK and other EU countries have agreed to reduce the amount of biodegradable municipal waste going to landfill to prevent or reduce as far as possible any damage to the environment caused by landfilling. The basis of this agreement is the EU Landfill Directive. The European Union’s Landfill directive aims to reduce the amount of waste to landfill by finding ways to recover value from waste and develop more sustainable management practices. Disposal to landfill is the least preferred option in the waste hierarchy and should only be used as a last resort after re-use, recycling and recovery options, as an escalating scale of taxation on materials being sent to landfill has made this an increasingly expensive option. This is a poor use of resources and costs businesses and household’s money. We generate tonnes of waste every year in Northern Ireland and all councils are set targets for the amount of waste that goes to landfill and these are lowered every year. During 2015 to 2016 Mid Ulster District Council only used 72.8% of its overall NILAS allowance (15,530 tonnes) of biodegradable local authority collected municipal waste that was landfilled, placing the Council third in overall performance out of the eleven Councils.

2 b). Programme of activities to sustain clean, safe and vibrant communities (clean neighbourhood)

Service Improvement Plan

Clean neighbourhoods can increase the quality of life and improve the physical and mental wellbeing of our residents. Amenities and neighbourhoods that are clean, can engender social pride, add vibrancy to the local economy, increase house prices and reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, all of which are essential to the development of strong prosperous neighbourhoods. Our local communities have informed us as a Council that they want our town centres and civic spaces to be open and welcoming to all. Clean neighbourhoods are dependent on residents and businesses acting responsibly with disposing litter and waste correctly, as well as the efficient removal and disposal of litter, dog fouling, graffiti and other environmental nuisances by Council. You have also told us as a Council that improvements need to be made in public education /awareness regarding litter (particularly the amount generated by fast food) and recycling along with fly-tipping, dog-fouling, vacant and derelict buildings as well signage. Council recognises that part of its work in changing the behaviour can be made through education and enforcement.

Council can utilise its powers under the Clean Neighbourhoods & Environment Act (NI) 2011to deal with environmental issues such as littering, graffiti, dog control, dog fouling, fly posting, abandoned vehicles and nuisance vehicles, (the act also gives powers to council in relation to signage/ placards and advertising for commercial purposes on public property). The Council takes the enforcement of this legislation very seriously and is committed to ensuring that Mid Ulster is a place with clean, tidy and litter free neighbourhoods where everyone takes responsibility for their waste and the surrounding environment.

Corporate Improvement Objective Community Plan Theme & Outcome Project (Action)

3 To improve the accessibility of our services by increasing the number available online.

Theme 4: Health & well Being

Outcome: We have better availability to the right service, in the right place at the right time

Implementation of a programme to e-enable customer centric services

Why we are doing it? The greater expectations of residents, visitors and businesses in relation to on-line or digital service provision means that we must deliver our services in ways and at times that serve their needs. Based on the growing use of mobile technologies (*smartphones are replacing computers for internet use with two-thirds -65% of all adults using a smartphone to go online), increased internet usage (*nine in ten UK adults say they use the internet, on any device, in any location) and digitisation of services, the council needs to be are at the forefront of applying technology to make local services both more customer-centric and efficient, where customers can interact electronically with our services at any time of the day over 24 hours. Increasing on-line services improves accessibility, customer journeys and reduces costs to the ratepayer. It is so important to understand as a Council how new technologies can help us anticipate customer needs (), tailor services to best serve customers, and ultimately improve the efficiency of the council by enabling staff to work

Service Improvement Plan

effectively for our customers. Our customers, communities and businesses want to experience the Council as an organisation that provides a single accessible seamless journey from initial enquiry right through to any required support. We want to increase the range of on-line transactions as well as the number of transactions, simplify our processes and engage with our customers. We will also continue to provide appropriate support for those who interact with our services in non-digital ways such as face-to-face, written correspondence or by telephone.

*Ofcom: Adults media Use and Attitudes Report 2016

4 To support people to adopt healthier lifestyles by increasing usage of council recreational facilities.

Theme 4: Health & Well Being

Outcome: We are better enabled to live longer healthier lives and more active lives Activity to increase the number of people who participate in a healthier lifestyles programme

Why we are doing it? The important role that sport and physical activity plays and the equitable availability of accessible, high quality sport and leisure programmes is recognised as enhancing the quality of life, health and well-being of the local community population of 138,500 within the District. It is a key way for council to help build strong and safe communities with active healthy people and families. Participation is a major contributor to personal health and wellbeing, develops lifelong physical and social skills and reduces anti-social behaviour. Locally, core wellbeing levels are below the NI averages and while 80% of the population rate their health as good (NI wide those rating their health as good equated to 79.5%), circa 20% of the population has life limiting illnesses. Mid Ulster has the highest proportion of deaths, 74% (whereas the regional average is 69%), from circulatory, malignant and respiratory diseases in Northern Ireland. In absolute terms long term health issues continue to exert pressure on communities, affect the overall health outcomes within communities and create challenges for services. Within the district rates of obesity in adults and children are increasing all of these figures suggest there is a need to facilitate increased participation in local health and well-being programmes. Council wants to help people adopt and develop healthy and sustainable lifestyles. We have chosen this objective based on what our local communities have told us and have taken into consideration local factors such as the profile, demographics, identified health inequalities within the district, accessibility opportunities and participation rates.

3.2 RISK MANAGEMENT OF SERVICE

This table illustrates the risks identified to deliver the Services business in 2017-18.

Risk Ref Description of Risk Risk Rating Mitigation Activity Number 1. Resource Availability & Usage. Potential risks include; a lack 8 (4x2) Parks Service and Property Services to plan and of, or untimely, maintenance of Parks, Play and Outdoor provide continuous proactive approach to Parks and Recreation facilities Outdoor Recreation maintenance programme. 2. Parks, Playground and Outdoor Recreation Inspection. The 9 (3x3) Complete on the appointment of third member of accumulated number of recreational sites requiring regular inspectorate staff which is currently a vacant post. inspection visits combined with current staff inspectorate Develop consistent approach to Parks and Outdoor resource limitations provides a scenario and risk for injury Recreation amenities inspection audit/ recording with potential claims on the Council. through the roll out of dedicated software and appropriate staff training 3. Service delivery capacity/structure. The lack of capacity with 9 (3x3) Provide rationale and business case to Council to in the current Parks Service structure to lead and deliver on support allocation of sufficient resources to develop multiple Countryside/Community Outdoor Recreation Mid Ulster District Council’s Countryside/Outdoor projects and associated activities/duties. Recreation function and ensure development progress and compliance to statutory obligations in relation to Access to the Countryside legislation. 4. Council role and responsibilities associated to the Reservoir 8 (2x4) Progress with all necessary engineering surveys and Act (NI) 2015 take the required actions to ensure that identified structures are adequately assessed for the purposes of public safety. 5. Council responsibilities associated to Recreational Inland 8 (2x4) Produce and adopt procedural arrangements to Water Safety ensure adequate and effective maintenance and management of council operated water recreation

Service Improvement Plan

amenities in compliance with relevant Health & Safety Regulations and Occupiers Liability Act.

Rating Descriptor 16 - 25 Extreme Risk (immediate action required) 10 - 15 High Risk (urgent action required) 7 - 9 Moderate Risk (action required) 1 – 6 Low Risk (keep under review)

Report on Reservoirs safety

Reporting Officer Head of Parks

Contact Officer Nigel Hill

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No x

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To update members of Council’s role and responsibilities in relation to the Reservoir Act (NI) 2015 and to seek Council approval for completion of Section 10 Reports for Dungannon Park and Ballysaggart Lough

2.0 Background

2.1 The Northern Ireland Assembly has brought forward legislation, which received Royal Assent on 24th July 2015 in relation to the management of reservoirs. The legislation will regulate reservoir’s in Northern Ireland capable of holding 10,000 cubic metres or more of water above the natural level of surrounding land in order to protect the public, economic activity, the environment, cultural heritage from the risk of flooding from reservoir failure. There are in the region of 130 reservoirs in Northern Ireland that will be affected under the scope of the legislation. There are two such reservoirs currently under the responsibility of Mid Ulster District Council, Dungannon Park Lake and Ballysaggart Lough.

3.0 Main Report

3.1 The Council will be required to provide evidence of current condition surveys and related information of actual capital expenditure carried out along with estimates of any future works required in the interests of reservoir safety. Mid Ulster District Council have complied with this initial requirement and initial survey reports have been submitted to Rivers Agency.

3.2 The second stage of planning is to commission Section 10 Reports for both the reservoirs for which Mid Ulster District Council possess operational management responsibility.

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: Projected inspection, survey and final report costs £10,000

Human: Existing staff resources sufficient to coordinate the required response to Rivers Agency request.

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

None

4.3 Risk Management Implications

Actions associated the Council’s obligations currently and recorded and monitored on council’s Corporate Risk Register

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 Approval for the procurement of suitably qualified consultant engineers for the production of section 10 Reports as required for Dungannon Park and Ballysaggart Lough

6.0 Documents Attached & References

6.1 Department of infrastructure Rivers correspondence 28 03 2017

Report on Washingbay Healthy Living Centre

Reporting Officer Head of Parks

Contact Officer Nigel Hill

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No x

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 Consideration of request from Muintir na Mointeach Ltd. to permit the proposal to develop an extension to the existing Community Centre building on the Council owned site.

2.0 Background

2.1 Muintir na Mointeach is a community based group in existence from 1996, which works from the Healthy Living Community Centre based in the Washingbay area. The group provides and manages this facility for the delivery of educational activities, Arts, culture, heritage, social activity, health and wellbeing, environmental improvements and leisure and recreational activities which it also organises. The group provides opportunities through training to develop the capacity and skills of the members of the area and in particular those deemed to be from social and economically disadvantaged communities of Washingbay and the surrounding area. The Healthy Living Centre was built in 2006 on lands owned by Dungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council through the establishment of a 99 year lease, commenced on 26th April 2005. The original project was funded by RDC to the value of £115,746.

3.0 Main Report

3.1 Muintir na Mointeach Ltd. request the council to approve the proposal to extend the size of the current building to accommodate the capacity of the community group to delivery an increased range of community initiatives targeting mother/toddler and older peoples clubs drawn from across Washingbay and further afield.

3.2 Under the terms of the current lease council approval must be sought and received by the community group (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) in order to action any building alterations or extensions.

3.3 Muintir Na Mointeach Ltd. must obtain all necessary Planning/Statutory approvals associated to the project

3.4 On approval/completion of project council will amend the current lease.

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: Legal fees associated to lease amendments.

Human: None

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

Muintir na Mointeach Ltd. deliver services and programmes that reach out into the community across the listed segments. Adult training Children (5-13 year olds) Community safety/crime prevention Ethnic minorities General public Language community Men Older people Parents Specific areas of deprivation Voluntary and community sector Volunteers Women Youth (14-25 year olds)

4.3 Risk Management Implications

None

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 Approval of request to permit development proposal subject to all statutory conditions being met by the lessee.

6.0 Documents Attached & References

6.1 Muintir na Mointeach Ltd correspondence 25 02 2017

Report on Leisure Services – Service Improvement Plan

Reporting Officer Liam Glavin

Contact Officer Liam Glavin

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No X

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To seek Member approval for the Leisure Services - Service Improvement Plan for 2017/18.

2.0 Background

2.1 This plan helps ensure that Leisure services are accountable, planned and clear, and that performance and improvement are a key element of service delivery. It will also help us deliver the Council’s mission and strategic outcomes set out in Council’s Corporate Plan.

3.0 Main Report

3.1 Leisure will provide quality Sport and Leisure facilities offering recreational and sporting opportunities both indoor and outdoor. It will provide opportunities for citizens and visitors to improve their health and wellbeing through physical and recreational activities.

3.2 By listening to our stakeholders we will provide innovative services in safe, quality

environments in the most efficient and effective ways using highly trained, engaged staff. 3.3 Leisure Services is part of the Leisure and Outdoor Recreation Department and is made up of the following service areas: • Leisure including facilities • Sports Development • Sport including facilities

Outdoor Recreation i.e. Sporting/Leisure activities such as Mountain Biking

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: N/A

Human: N/A

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

N/A

4.3 Risk Management Implications

N/A

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 Members are asked to approve the Leisure Services - Service Improvement Plan for 2017/18.

6.0 Documents Attached & References

6.1 Leisure Services - Service Improvement Plan for 2017/18.

Leisure.

Department of

Culture and Leisure

SERVICE

PLAN

2017

Date 18

Consulted within staff team 12/ 4 / 2017

0 Discussed & signed off by Director 2/ 5 / 2017

Service Improvement Plan

CONTENT

SECTION TITLE PAGE NUMBER

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE & SCOPE OF THE SERVICE 1.1 Purpose and scope of the service 1 1.2 Responsibilities 1 1.3 Customers & Stakeholders 2 1.4 Performance Overview in 2016/17 2

2.0 SERVICE WORK PLAN - 2017/18 2.1 Budget - 2017/18 3 2.2 Staffing Complement – 2017/18 5 2.3 Work Plan – 2017/ 18 6 2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement 8 Objectives/Projects 2.5 Measures of Success 10

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE - 2017/18 3.1 Council’s Improvement Objectives and Associated 11 Programs - 2017/18 3.2 Risk Management of Service 12

Service Improvement Plan

1.0 OVERALL PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE SERVICE

1.1. Purpose and Scope of the Service

Leisure will provide quality Sport and Leisure facilities offering recreational and sporting opportunities both indoor and outdoor. It will provide opportunities for citizens and visitors to improve their health and wellbeing through physical and recreational activities.

By listening to our stakeholders we will provide innovative services in safe, quality environments in the most efficient and effective ways using highly trained, engaged staff.

The following Leisure Managers manage and provide indoor and outdoor leisure services as above in below facilities.

Leisure Manager Cookstown (Sean Cavlin): • Cookstown Leisure Centre • Mid Ulster Sports Arena • Davagh Mountainbike Trails • Fairhill Bowling Green and Tennis Courts • Football Pitches and Pavilions

Leisure Manager Dungannon (Ann McRoberts): • Dungannon Leisure Centre • Drumcoo Playing Fields including Bowling Green • Gortgonis Centre and Playing Fields • Blessingbourne MBTs • Football Pitches and Pavilions

Leisure Manager Magherafelt (Oliver McShane): • Meadowbank Sports Arena • Maghera Leisure Centre • Tobermore Golf Centre • Moneymore RC • Football Pitches and Pavilions

The Senior Leisure Development Officer (Eunan Murray) is responsible for Sports Development, Everybody Active 2020 (Sport NI funded Sports Development Programme), monitoring the Greenvale Leisure Centre management contract with Pulse and business development.

1.2 Responsibilities

Leisure and Sport contributes to a range of wider social, economic and cultural needs by improving community health and well–being and can contribute to reducing inequalities in child poverty and social deprivation as well as ensuring

Service Improvement Plan

equality of opportunity. With that in mind Leisure provides quality facilities, programmes and services to our citizens and visitors.

Leisure is part of the Culture and Leisure Department and is made up of the following service areas: 1. Leisure including facilities 2. Sports Development 3. Sport including facilities 4. Outdoor Recreation based at Davagh MBT ie Sporting/Leisure activities such as Mountain Biking, walking etc.

1.3 Customers & Stakeholders

Customers & Stakeholders

• Internal: Elected Members • Internal: Staff • Internal: Other Council functions such as Environmental Health, Health and Safety • External: Customers • External: Partners in Projects and Service Delivery (See Appendix 2) • External: Community/Voluntary Organisations such as Sports Clubs, Youth Groups etc • External: Public Health Agency • External: Sport NI • External: SELB • External: Local Schools/Education Authority • External: Health Trusts

1.4 Performance Overview in 2017/18

Leisure Services contributed to the Corporate Objective of “Consolidate and Improve the Delivery of services “ by the following:

2017/18 Performance Overview

• Finalised Council’s approach to SLAs and legacy arrangements. Met with organisations and informed them of council direction in 2016/17. • Finalised Standardised Operational Procedures. • Continuous Improvement activities were carried out across all Leisure Facilities. • Delivered EBA 2020 Programme and met all objectives.

Service Improvement Plan

• Reviewed Management Information and Direct Debit Collection Systems across the service in conjunction with the IT function. • Focussed on improving service quality at leisure facilities through the actions of the Department Quality Team. Carried out actions resulting from Customer surveys and MVs to improve the service. Carried out one customer survey and two mystery visits at each facility throughout the year. Closely monitored all customer complaints. • Developed and implemented new support programmes for schools facilities used by the community. • Continued to focus on strategic effectiveness by redeveloping Moneymore Recreation Centre along with funding from OFMDFM’s Social Investment Fund. Due to a delay in funding this will not be delivered until 2017/18 • Enabled Benburb Development Association to draw down Big Lottery Funding for the improvement of land around Benburb Playing Fields by approving a 10 year lease. • Increased total annual throughput at some facilities by developing quality Leisure programmes responsive to customer needs • Increased total annual income at some facilities by developing quality Leisure programmes responsive to customer needs. • Ensured costs kept within budgets by consistent monitoring, performance management and budgetary control.

2.0 SERVICE WORKPLAN 2017/18

The following tables confirm the resources, financial and people, which the Service has access to throughout 2017-18 to deliver its actions, activities and core business.

2.1 Budget 2017/18

Service Budget Headings £ Active Communities Total (637) All Weather RSD Outdoor Total (2,000) Aughnacloy Playing Fields Total 40 Ballygawley Playing Fields Total 14,692 Beechway Football Total 3,100 Benburb Playing Fields Total 11,297 Boyne Row C'Dawson Total 4,140 Cahore Road Pitch & Pavilion Total 8,355 Castlecaulfield Playing Fields Total 15,616 Cookstown Leisure Centre Total 886,563 Davagh Trails Total 58,713 Development/Leisure Services Total 31,987 Drumcoo Bowling Green Total 3,340 Drumcoo Playing Fields Total 3,198 Dungannon Leisure Centre Total 1,030,604 Fairhill Bowling Green Total 2,945 Fairhill Football Total 3,000 Fairhill Tennis Total (300)

Service Improvement Plan

Fivemiletown Bike Trail Total 1,700 Fivemiletown Playing Fields Total 6,077 FMT Bowling Green Total 270 GLC Bowling Green Total (1,250) Gortgonis Citizen Centre Indoor Total 3,000 Gortgonis Playing Field Total 66,250 Gortmerron Tennis Courts Total (100) Greenvale Leisure Centre Total 745,893 Maghera Leisure Centre Total 520,641 Meadowbank Sports Arena Total 226,354 Mid Ulster Sports Arena Total 182,854 Mill park T'more Total 4,260 Moneymore Football Total 320 Moneymore Recreation Centre Total 61,721 Newmills Playing Fields Total 14,812 Sports Development Total 253,300 Sports Grants - Capital Total 165,000 Sports Grants - Revenue Total 20,000 TGDR - Tobermore Golf Driving Range Total 20,507 Tobermore Football Club Total 1,900 Gross Budget £6,246,714 Income (£1,878,552) Net Budget for 2017-18 £4,368,162

Service Improvement Plan

2.2 Staffing Complement - 2017/18

The above structures are draft only as two positions are now filled and one position has been removed from the structures:

Staffing No. of Staff Head of Service 1 Managers 4 Officers 18 Remaining Team 74.5 FTE plus 97 casual staff Total 97.5 plus 97 casual

2.3 Work Plan - 2017/18

Community Plan Actions By When Outcome Expected Theme & Outcome No. Theme 4.Health Provide indoor and outdoor leisure services including Start in High quality leisure, sporting and recreational facilities and and Wellbeing. operational management of Council owned leisure April 2017 programmes providing opportunities for the community to Outcome: We are facilities and Recreational and Health and Wellbeing and finish increase their Health and Wellbeing and enabling them to live better enabled to programmes. Also provide Sports Development in March longer and healthier lives. live longer, Programmes and Grants to the community. 2018. healthier and more active lives. Theme 4.Health Commence alignment of Job Descriptions, rates of Start in Job Descriptions, rates of pay, rotas, shift patterns local and Wellbeing. pay, rotas, shift patterns local arrangements for all May 2017. arrangements for all Leisure Staff aligned. Staff are motivated to Outcome: We are Leisure Staff. To be provide a high quality, modern Leisure Service. better enabled to completed live longer, in 2018/19 healthier and more active lives. Theme 4.Health Carry out of Moneymore Recreation Centre Start in More fit-for-purpose recreation facility providing a high quality, and Wellbeing. refurbishments. November modern Leisure Service to the Moneymore area. Outcome: We are 2017. To be better enabled to completed live longer, March healthier and 2018. more active lives.

Service Improvement Plan

Theme 4.Health Carry out a Sport Pitches Strategy. Start in Sports Pitches Strategy will provide a direction of travel for Council and Wellbeing. August with regards to Outdoor Grass and Synthetic Pitch provision Outcome: We are 2017. To be better enabled to completed live longer, by March healthier and 2018. more active lives. Theme 4.Health Appoint Strategic Leisure Partners to review the Start in Business Plan in place and actions carried out to modernise Leisure and Wellbeing. existing Leisure Services and service delivery to August Services. Outcome: We are identify areas where improvements could be made 2017. To be better enabled to which would modernise the service, resulting in completed live longer, increased efficiencies and improved income by healthier and generation. The Strategic Leisure Partners will September more active lives. produce a Business Plan along with Council Officers. 2018.

Theme 4.Health Following a Council decision on the future delivery of Start in TBC and Wellbeing. Leisure Services at Greenvale Leisure Centre based on June 2017. Outcome: We are consultant’s report carry out specific actions based on To be better enabled to the Council decision. completed live longer, by healthier and September more active lives. 2018 Theme 4.Health Develop a Mid Ulster District Council Disability Sports Start in The Disability Sports Hub will provide a range of sports and Wellbeing. Hub at Mid Ulster Sports Arena. June 2017. wheelchairs, inclusive bikes and inclusive sports equipment to Outcome: We are To be enable children and adults with disabilities to participate in at least better enabled to completed 14 different sports and activities in the MUDC area. live longer, by healthier and September more active lives. 2017.

Service Improvement Plan

2.4 Service Contribution to the Corporate Improvement Objectives/Projects

2017-2018 Actions By When Outcome Expected Corporate Improvement Plan (CIP) Priority Tracking Reference No. CIP4/A001 Audit of Planned Health & Well-Being Programmes (1) Start Increased participation and healthier lifestyles by greater Key Actions: (1) May 2017 numbers attending Health and Wellbeing programmes. Audit local health & well-being programmes planned complete by department services and teams throughout the September organisation to ensure a co-ordinated approach. 2017 (2) (2) Review existing programmes to determine Start May pathways for progression and continuous 2017 improvement. developed by December 2017

CIP4/A002 Audit of facility Usage (1) Start Increased participation and healthier lifestyles by greater Key Actions: May 2017 numbers attending recreational facilities. (1) Audit of footfall/visitor numbers at complete facilities/events/programmes and analysis patterns March of facility usage 2018 (2) Identify opportunities to co-ordinate (2) Start programming, events/attractions a May 2017 (3) Appointment Sales Officer develop by (4) Audit of participation among traditionally March underrepresented groups which include: 2018 •Women and girls (3) Start

Service Improvement Plan

•People with a disability; and April 2017 •Those living in areas of greatest social need Appointed by September 2017 (4) Start June 2017 developed by September 2017

CIP4/A004 Development of proposals for Key Capital Projects (1) Start Improved quality recreational facilities in MUDC. Key Actions: May 2017 (1) Appoint consultancy teams to develop proposals Developed for Key Capital Projects including Gortgonis, by March Dungannon Leisure Centre and Railway Park 2018 (2) Appoint consultancy team to develop inclusive (2) Start play and strategic play investment programme. September 2017 developed by March 2019

CIP3/A005 Improve accessibility of online services (1) Started Improved customer satisfaction by delivering efficient 24/7 Key Actions: and online services. (1) Liaise with CIP3 group completed (2) Undertake a review of current on-line service by March capabilities, collate metrics, identify and prioritise 2019 potential new online services and ensure these are (2) Started supported by back office processes through to May 2017 implementation. completed

Service Improvement Plan

by March 2018

2.5 Measure of Success

During 2017/18 we will be undertaking work to establish baseline and benchmarking information in order to provide continuous improvement. A number of initial measures of success / performance indicators have been identified which we will gather baseline information on in this financial year and will report on in 2018/19.

Function: Performance Indicator(s):

Ref No. N/A

Function: Performance Indicator(s):

Ref No. N/A

3.0 IMPROVING OUR SERVICE AND MANAGING PERFORMANCE

3.1 Annual Improvement Objectives and Associated Programs

The Council will focus on the following improvement objectives for 2017 to 2018:

(i) To assist in the growth of the local economy by increasing the number of visitors to our district.

(ii) To help manage our waste and environment by reducing the amount of waste going to landfill.

(iii) To improve the accessibility of our services by increasing the number available online.

(iv) To support people to adopt healthier lifestyles by increasing usage of council recreational facilities.

3.2 RISK MANAGEMENT OF SERVICE

This table illustrates the risks identified to deliver the Services business in 2017-18.

Risk Ref Description of Risk Risk Rating Mitigation Activity Number 1. Different Rates of Pay, Ts & Cs and Policies across the service: 9 Baseline Staffing Details now being populated. Alignment Scope of risk extends to possibly causing morale problems Process will commence in early 2016 and should last resulting in Grievances, Industrial Tribunals and adverse media approximately 12-18 months. coverage.

2. Increased competition from private sector: Scope of risk extends 9 (1) SIP has been delivered and BPS developed. Consultant to: (1) Cost of providing service uncompetitive (2) Loss of carrying out Process Improvement activities in December customers leading to reduced income. 2016 and officers will carry out subsequent actions in the following months.(2) Is ongoing -Davagh Dark Skys RDP Tourism application being developed (3) MAPs have been developed by Facilities Marketing Officer and Leisure Officers (4) HR are introducing this across MUDC. Managers have been informed of Employee Development Programme and it will be rolled out over coming months. (5). The GLC Management Consultancy document has nearly been completed. This will be taken to Council in Dec/Jan for decison on future management of GLC. The Strategic Leisure Partners procurement will commence in the second half of the year.

3. Loss of Funding from Grant awarding bodies: Scope of risk 8 Ongoing. RDP Application for Davagh Dark Skys being extends to not applying or poor applications. developed. Not match funding and reduction in funding opportunities.

4. SLA/Partnership/ Management Agreements break down: Scope 9 All existing SLAs have been reviewed and reported on and of risk extends to possible loss of service, income or legal action. decisions have been taken by Council for 2017/18. New SLAs developed for Backrow and Fivemiletown. Greenvale

Service Improvement Plan

LC Management Agreement being reviewed and decision taken by Council in May 2017.

Rating Descriptor 16 - 25 Extreme Risk (immediate action required) 10 - 15 High Risk (urgent action required) 7 - 9 Moderate Risk (action required) 1 – 6 Low Risk (keep under review)

Report on Changing Block at Aughnacloy Grass Pitch

Reporting Officer Liam Glavin

Contact Officer Liam Glavin

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes

If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No X

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To advise Members on proposals to uplift existing Changing Block at Aughnacloy Grass Pitch to be relocated at Aughnacloy College’s 3G soccer pitch.

2.0 Background

2.1 The Dept. of Communities (DfC) has now issued a Letter of Offer to the Education Authority (EA) for the construction of a FIFA One Star 3G Soccer pitch, Fencing and Floodlighting in the grounds of Aughnacloy College.

2.2 EA have confirmed that it should be possible for work to commence on the site in August 2017.

Council will manage the facilities under licence from EA and through a Service 2.3 Level Agreement with Aughnacloy Community Group who will operationally manage the site. Council will also pay 50% of pitch maintenance costs annually and 50% of the cost of replacing the carpet when required.

3.0 Main Report

3.1 It is now proposed that the existing Changing Block at the Grass Pitch in Aughnacloy be uplifted and resited at the new 3G Pitch on the College site.

3.2 Existing use of the grass pitch is limited due to drainage problems on the pitch. The only users have been Caledon Rovers FC who have their own premises. They have used it three times in the last year. Officers have discussed this proposal with Caledon Rovers FC and they have no issues as they intend to use the 3G facilities once built.

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: It is recommended that this proposal only proceeds with no financial cost to the Council to uplift the Changing Block.

Human: N/A

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

N/A

4.3 Risk Management Implications

N/A

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 Members are asked to agree to the uplift of the existing Changing Block at the Grass Pitch in Aughnacloy and to resite it at the 3G Soccer Pitch in Aughnacloy College subject to there being no cost to Council.

6.0 Documents Attached & References

6.1 None

Report on Mid Ulster District Council Every Body Active 2020

Reporting Officer Liam Glavin

Contact Officer Liam Glavin

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes

If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No X

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To report on the Mid Ulster District Council Every Body Active 2020 (MUDC EA 2020) Programme for 2016/17 and to get Members agreement on the Draft MUDC EA 2020 Action Plan 2017/18 to be forwarded to Sport NI (SNI) for their approval.

2.0 Background

2.1 MUDC must make a Draft Programme proposal to SNI as to how they would fulfil the aims of MUDC EA 2020 and deliver the agreed Performance Indicators for the year 2017/18.

2.2 The 2016/17 Programme had targets of a total of 5,523 participants comprised of 3,093 women/girls, 89 people with a disability and 1,768 from areas of high social need. The Programme in fact delivered 13,804 participants of which there were 7,478 women/girls, 3,938 people with a disability and 1,778 from areas of high social need. (Please see Appendix 1 for full report)

3.0 Main Report

3.1 Based on the original submission to SNI officers are planning to achieve the below Key Performance Indicators which are an increase of 1% howeverfollowing the success of the 2016/17 Programme, it is expected that these can be achieved:

Total High Sustained participants women/ People with social participant AREA 2017/18 girls a disability need s 2017/18 Mid Ulster 6075 3402 912 1945 1,775

3.2 Below is the proposed programme for 2017/18:

People with Disabilities Women/Girls & High Social Need Get Active Recreational Football for Get Active 6-11yrs women (EBA) Boccia & New Age Kurling Get Active Recreational Netball (EBA) Special Schools Programme Get Active Christmas Programme Get Active Multi Sports Schools Special Schools Programme Programme (EBA) Learning Support Schools Active Get Active Girls Afterschool Programme Programme (EBA) Sports Specific Disability Programme Get Active Workplace Events (EBA) Boccia Club Get Active Danderball (EBA) Adults Learning Support Programme Get Active Couch to 5K (EBA) Physical Activity Programme - RNIB Get Active Kids Physical Activity Schools Programme (EBA) Physical Activity Programme - NAS Get Active Kids Physical Activity After schools Programme (EBA) Physical Activity Programme - Mencap Get Active Teens Programme (EBA) Physical Activity Programme – Fit 4 Get Active Recreational Sports U Programme (EBA) Dodgeball Get Active Gaelic for Mothers (EBA) Couch 2 5k Get Active Recreational Ladies Hockey (EBA) Disability Specific Walking Get Active Ladies Only Physical Activity Programmes Classes (EBA) Get Active Teen Girls Physical Activity Programme (EBA) Walking programmes Flames Project (EBA) Female only boot camp Flames II (EBA) Get Active Recreational Dodgeball Get Active Adults Programme Estates summer programme Get Active Ladies Leisure Programmes Easter Dodgeball Camp Buggy Fit

(Further details are contained in theYear 1 Report and Draft Action Plan for 2017/18 in Appendix 1.)

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: All costs are within existing budgets based on funding from SNI.

Human: N/A

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

N/A

4.3 Risk Management Implications

N/A

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 That Members agree that Officers proceed on the basis of the Every Body Active 2020 Year 1 Report and Draft Action Plan for 2017/18.

6.0 Documents Attached & References

6.1 Appendix 1 – Every Body Active 2020 Year 1 Reportand Draft Action Plan for 2017/18.

Year 1 Report and Draft Action Plan for Year 2

April 2017 1 | Page

Contents Page

Overview 3

Updated Contact Details 4

KPI’s & Year 1 Results 5

Links to Community Plan 6

Partnership Organisations 9

Year 1 Evaluation and Delivery 10

Year 2 Planning for Year 2 15

Conclusion 16

Appendices 1, 2 & 3 17-19

April 2017 2 | Page

Overview This report will review the performance of the Every Body Active 2020 Programme for 2016/17 and will also propose a Draft Plan for 2017/18 under the following headings: 1. Key Performance Indicators 2. Links to Community Plan 3. Partnerships Organisations 4. Year 1 Evaluation & Delivery 5. Active Clubs 6. MUDC EBA 2020 Long Term 7. MUDC EBA Program Management 8. Planning for Year 2 9. Conclusion 10. Case Study examples

April 2017 3 | Page

Updated Contact Details

Programme EVERY BODY ACTIVE 2020

Council MID ULSTER DISTRICT COUNCIL

Contact Details Leigh Gilmore Mid Ulster Sports Arena Tullywiggan Rd Cookstown BT80 8SG

87720375 [email protected] Contact Details Kathleen Brogan Mid Ulster Sports Arena Tullywiggan Rd Cookstown BT80 8SG

86767135 [email protected] Contact Details Ruth Bell Mid Ulster Sports Arena Tullywiggan Rd Cookstown BT80 8SG

86767135 [email protected] Contact Details Steven McElhatton Mid Ulster Sports Arena Tullywiggan Rd Cookstown BT80 8SG

86767135 [email protected]

1. Key Performance Indicators for 2016/17

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Please see below the KPIs for Year 1:

Total participants People with High social Sustained AREA 2016/17 Women/girls a disability need participants 2016/17

Mid Ulster 5,523 3,093 829 1,768 1,614

Please see below detailed results for Year 1:

Year 1 Results

Area Total Women/girls People with a High social Sustained participants disability need participants 2016/17 2016/17 Mid Ulster 5,523 3,093 829 1,768 1,614 Target Coach 1 ½ Yr Result 2,261 1,735 0 291 Coach 2 ½ Yr Result 1,668 0 1,688 0 Coach 3 ½ Yr Result 1,765 1,319 0 544

Coach 1 4,961 3,987 0 607 Yr Result Coach 2 3,938 0 3,938 0 Yr Result Coach 3 4,905 3,491 0 1,171 Yr Result

Mid Ulster 5,523 3,093 829 1,768 1,614 Target Actual 13,804 7,478 3,938 1,778 Unknown at this Totals time. Coach 1 Coach 2 Coach 3 Unique 1,040 403 994 participants* 11+ 394 206 412 sessions*

2. Links to Mid Ulster Community Plan

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Mid Ulster District Council’s Community Plan states Council’s vision as: “Mid Ulster… a welcoming place where our people are content, healthy and safe; educated and skilled; where our economy is thriving; our environment and heritage are sustained; and where our public services excel.”

Strategic findings are as follows: Mid Ulster is currently made up of more Under 16s and fewer Over 65s than the Northern Ireland (NI) average. Population projections show this trend is set to continue.

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Through the Education and Skills theme, the Community Plan wants to ensure that educational facilities ‘work’ for children, families and communities beyond the traditional school hours / days. Through the Health and Wellbeing theme, it is recognised that Health Inequalities are impacted by a wide range of determinants including, gender, age and ethnicity, as well as adequate disposable income; living and working conditions; level of education; access to services; and the environment. It will be important in the development and delivery of services, that we give consideration to the whole, not just individual elements. A community-based and multi-agency approach to health and well-being programmes, projects and activities, aimed at all ages, communities, needs and lifestyles, and targeted to those most in need, should be sustained and built upon. This should be done through collaborative and cohesive working, incorporating a wider focus on mental health-related issues and social care provision. There is clear linkage between the themes of the MUDC Community Plan and The Everybody Active 2020 program - Health and Wellbeing and Education and Skills. The EBA 2020 Year 1 program has underpinned these links and Year 2 will extend them further by targeting women and girls, people with disabilities and those living in high areas of social need.

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3. Partnership Organisations The following are our Partnership Organisations developed in the year 2016/17: Cookstown Royal British Northern Trust Tobin Community Centre Legion CDE Workplace, Southern Trust Moortown Cookstown Lough Shore Community National Autistic society Newmills P.S Association, Moortown Ardboe Community Community Groups Netball DLC Projects (Kilcronaghan & Tirgan) Bellaghy Operation Cedar Foundation Ulster Hockey Transformation (Dungannon) Ballysaggart Ms Society (Cookstown) Buggy Fit, Aughnacloy Development Association Cookstown Fr Rocks Empower NI (Magherafelt) Buggy Fit, Dungannon GAA Club Park

Slatequarry Community Holy Trinity's PS Buggy Fit/mother toddler Association, Rock CLC Heron Bros, Draperstown Cookstown PS Integrated College Dungannon Stewartstown PS Primate Dixon PS Ballylifford P.S, St Marys PS, St Patrick's Dungannon St Puis College Stewartstown St Marys PS, Pomeroy Carefully yours project Moneymore Rec (Magherafelt) Howard PS, Dungannon Willowbank (Dungannon) Aughnacloy P.S, Phoenix Integrated PS, Woodland Beacon Aughnacloy College Cookstown (Cookstown) St Marys PS, Dunamore Base Groups (Cookstown Tobermore Community & Magherafelt) Group Orritor PS, Cookstown Sky Club (Fivemiletown) Killyman PS Special Schools (Kilronan & Sperrinview) Laghey PS, Killyman RNIB Bush PS, Dungannon Adult centre's (Cookstown & Magherafelt) Moneymore PS Fit 4 U x2 (physical and learning groups) Woods PS, Ballyronan Culnady PS, Maghera Holy Trinity PS, Cookstown

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4. Year 1 Evaluation Although there was a reduction in coaches by over 50% from the Active Communities to Everybody Active 2020 Programme and for the first time a fee was introduced to the clubs/groups, the programme was a success in Year 1 with all targets exceeded as indicated below. Year 1 KPIs:

Total Sustained participants People with High social participants AREA 2016/17 Women/girls a disability need 2016/17

Mid Ulster 5,523 3,093 829 1,768 1,614

Year 1 Results:

Total Sustained participants People with High social participants AREA 2017/18 Women/girls a disability need 2017/18

Mid Unknown at this Ulster 13,084 7,478 3,938 1,778 time.

To help with the sustainability of the programme and assist with programme costs a £15 charge for coach’s services was introduced to groups/schools. This decision to charge was initially viewed with some concern by previous groups/schools but soon all organisations were happy to pay as they valued the programme and the high standard of coaching they received. Year 1 Delivery The following programmes were delivered in 2016/17: Multi Sports – Women /Girls Locations Programme Participants Weeks C, D, M Football for Women 15 8 3 Walking Programme 15 8 3 Recreational Netball 20 8 3 Gaelic for Mothers 20 8 3 Recreational Hockey 20 8 3 Ladies only Physical Activity Classes 15 8 3 Sports Specific Camps 30 8 3 Multi Sports Schools Programme 10-14 yrs. 20 8 3

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People living in areas of High Social Need Locations Programme Participants Weeks C,D,M Multi Sports Outreach Programme 15 8 7 Get Active Adult Programme 15 8 7 Danderball 10 8 7 Go Walking Programme 15 8 7 Inclusive Games Programme 10 8 7 Recreational Sports Programme 15 8 7 Ladies Specific Leisure Programme 15 8 7

People with a Disability Locations Programme Participants Weeks C, D, M Get Active 6-11yrs 15 8 3 Boccia & New Age Kurling 15 8 3 Special Schools Programme 15 8 3 Learning Support Schools Active 3 Programme 10 8 Sports Specific Disability Programme 10 8 3

5. Active Clubs At first the connections between EBA 2020 and Active Clubs were slow as each began the process of establishing their respective programs. However, the Mid Ulster District Council EBA program has worked now with: • Athletics • Boxing • Disability Sport • Dodgeball • Hockey • Netball • Orienteering This following activities were also taking place: 1. Athletics – CPD training for the Coaches to assist with the running of Couch to 5K programs. 2. Boxing – Management discussions on the establishment of girl’s boxing activities across two Magherafelt Secondary Schools with assistance from EBA and coaches from a local club to create links and to allow for continued participation after program finishes.

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3. Disability Sport – An 8 week wheel chair activity program and ongoing boccia club and associated program. Also now linking to the DSNI Disability Hubs for continued participation with the availability of new equipment including wheel chairs and cycles. 4. Dodgeball – Including CPD training for Coaches, the establishment of a dodgeball club and increased exposure to the new activity through taster sessions in local schools and an Easter program. 5. Hockey - the establishment of recreational activities for females and linkages to the local ladies club. 6. Netball – recreational activities both in a local school providing after school facilities free of charge and local leisure centre program that targets young women and a ladies recreational program with the long term objective to re- establish the Dungannon Netball Club. Netball Ni are involved in this. The entire netball program in Dungannon has been a success. 7. Orienteering – Management discussions regarding the establishment of a school program and the possibility of using existing council venues for future events and the establishment of a local club to further offer participation opportunities.

6. EBA 2020 Long Term Plans Netball is ideally positioned to be one of the sports that can be used within the EBA 2020 program to effect real change in the local District. Dungannon has been without a netball club for a considerable period of time. Although there were clear indications of a high degree of netball being played in the local schools as well as the EBA program offering netball coaching, there was no local outlet for girls to take part either recreationally or to compete. The decision was taken to use certain activities as drivers to target specific groups and achieve specific outcomes. Netball was one of these activities and the plan was to: • target girls for recreational play • target women to encourage return to sporting activities • establish regular activity program • create links with governing body (active clubs coordinator) • establish a club (leaders and volunteers) • develop recreational club (children) • develop recreational club (women) • develop coaches • develop talent After discussions with a local school and in addition to the Leisure Centre based program a local secondary school offered the EBA coach afterschool access to its sports hall to host netball sessions for its pupils as well as being open to external pupils also. To this date this arrangement continues today with 25+ attending.

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The initial netball program was well received and to encourage regular participation an attempt to extend the original Leisure Centre booking resulted in a booking clash. The session was to be cancelled and the momentum created in those recreational girls and ladies sessions was in danger of being lost. MUDC Sports Development unit was able to support the program through the hiring of an additional sports hall in a local school at a similar time to ensure the continuation to the recreational sessions. The recreation sessions temporarily moved location but are returning to the Leisure Centre and discussions have now taken place to ensure the netball session is given priority status in the centre. The Governing Body through its Active Club Coordinator has now come on board to assist the establishment of a recreational club and to further develop into a competing club. It is also planned to offer assistance in club management, volunteer, coach and talent development. In addition the Sports Development unit will also work in partnership through the MUDC Coach Development Program offering safeguarding, first aid and sports specific training opportunities to this newly formed club.

7. EBA 2020 Program Management

Mid Ulster Council has been going through a process of realignment of both staff and organisational structures during the first year of EBA 2020. The Performance Management Group membership now consists of the Senior Leisure Development Officer, Sports Development Officer Community Sports Co-ordinator and were applicable strategic partners i.e. Sports GB’s - Disability Sport NI. This group monitor’s monthly performance against key performance indicators though its established reporting structures also it approves future program planning and manages CPD and equipment request. A new communications protocol has been introduced to MUDC staff. Sports development staff now meet on a monthly basis with Communication staff. EBA is a key discussion element. EBA 2020 Forum Group Many of the previous organisations and groups that were represented on the Active Communities Working Group have maintained their presence on the EBA 2020 Forum Group. The employed EBA 2020 coaches were long established Active Communities Coaches who already had very close links to, and working relationships with these locally based clubs groups and organisations. With the introduction of a new Key Performance Indicator - “People living in areas of High Social Need”, it meant Sports Development had to broaden the membership to include groups and organisations that would help council achieve its targets. As a result Community Development, Good Relations and other Community representatives from those areas now contribute to the programme.

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The Forum group met on two occasions, at the start of the year where Sports Development and the EBA Coaches presented the new programme and the targets set for 2016/17. A draft programme was distributed which gave the group a focal point, new contacts for groups were recorded and feedback from the members was taken on board before a programme was agreed. The second meeting was at 6 months were previous programmes were reviewed and the new ones discussed. The EBA Coaches and Sports Development are continually building new relationships with groups and community representatives that support the programme and provide access to hard to reach groups. This partnership approach have proven key to reaching the targets as set out in Year 1. Income To date the program has generated £26,308 for the 12 month period April 16 to March 17.

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8. Year 2 Plans 2017 / 2018 Below is a list of activities that are being proposed and to offer in Year 2 of the program:

People with a Disability Multi-Sport/Women/Girls & High Social Need Get Active Recreational Football for Get Active 6-11yrs women (EBA) Boccia & New Age Kurling Get Active Recreational Netball (EBA) Special Schools Programme Get Active Christmas Programme Get Active Multi Sports Schools Special Schools Programme Programme (EBA) Learning Support Schools Active Get Active Girls Afterschool Programme Programme (EBA) Sports Specific Disability Programme Get Active Workplace Events (EBA) Boccia Club Get Active Danderball (EBA) Adults Learning Support Programme Get Active Couch to 5K (EBA) Physical Activity Programme - RNIB Get Active Kids Physical Activity Schools Programme (EBA) Physical Activity Programme - NAS Get Active Kids Physical Activity After schools Programme (EBA) Physical Activity Programme - Mencap Get Active Teens Programme (EBA) Physical Activity Programme – Fit 4 Get Active Recreational Sports U Programme (EBA) Dodgeball Get Active Gaelic for Mothers (EBA) Couch 2 5k Get Active Recreational Ladies Hockey (EBA) Disability Specific Walking Get Active Ladies Only Physical Activity Programmes Classes (EBA) Get Active Teen Girls Physical Activity Programme (EBA) Walking programmes Flames Project (EBA) Female only boot camp Flames II (EBA) Get Active Recreational Dodgeball Get Active Adults Programme Estates summer programme Get Active Ladies Leisure Programmes Easter Dodgeball Camp Buggy Fit

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The following Key Performance Indicators are proposed for 2017/18 which is a 1% increase as indicated in our original proposal to SNI. Based on last year’s results these KPIs will be easily met:

Total Sustained participants People with High social participants AREA 2017/18 Women/girls a disability need 2017/18

Mid Ulster 6,075 3,402 912 1,945 1,775

Moving forward into Year 2 there are a number of challenges that need to be addressed to develop the programme even further. These include: . Increase EBA 2020 brand awareness. . Participants to register online. . Extending some programmes from 4 weeks to 6 weeks. . Increase the numbers of people with disabilities accessing the Programme. This will be helped when MUSA becomes a Disability Sports Hub. . Developing further community links within areas of High Social Need.

9. Conclusion Following a period of transition at the beginning to allow the coaches to get programmes established within the new parameters as set by Sport NI and year 1 figures highlight the overall success. Undoubtedly there will be challenges again this year with more groups requiring the services of the coaches and with budgets already set for Year 2 of EBA Programme. Sports Development will have to carefully manage coaches programmes to ensure that there is a good geographical spread of programmes, that coaches utilise their time effectively and within the constraints of the travel budget. Sustaining participation and program work with areas of high social need will continue to be challenging but these are well identified nationally and not specific to Mid Ulster. Additional work is required to encourage and support participants to register online which would allow coaches more time for actual delivery. None of the above challenges are unsurmountable. With the continued support from Sport NI and the wide range of partners, Council are confident of achieving the Key Performance Indicators for the incoming year. This will have a positive impact on peoples’ lives across the district.

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Appendix 1 - Case Study - Everybody Active Multi Sports Coach The Fit Friday Programme which was delivered in conjunction with local workplace CDE Global primarily a rural based workforce who had limited access services or facilities The aim of this programme is to introduce employees to a fitness programme and to improve their general fitness levels. The programme includes circuits, fitness tests and body exercises, and takes place every Friday morning at Mid Ulster Sports Arena before the employees go to work. So far the programme has been a great success and the 20+ participants have been enjoying themselves on a weekly basis. Below are photos of some of the participants in action:

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Appendix 2 - Case Study - Everybody Active Multi Sports Coach A Buggy Fit programme was delivered and aimed at mothers and babies, due to the high level of interest across the Mid Ulster area. This programme is delivered at Mid Ulster Sports Arena, Meadowbank Sports Arena and Dungannon Park from, 11.00 - 12.00 noon, costing £2.00 per week or £10.00 for 6 weeks, followed by tea and coffee. The aims of this programme are to give mothers the opportunity to get back into shape from having their child, exercising without have to worrying about getting a child minder and for the social side, mothers getting to meet other mothers. Every week Ruth has between 40-50 participants across the 3 council areas. Each session includes a mixture of cardiovascular and resistance based exercises that enable mothers to get a good balance of physical activity.

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Appendix 3 - Case Study - Every Body Active 2020 Disability Multi-Skills Coach A series of Adults Learning Support Programmes was delivered across the Mid Ulster Council Area. These sessions took place in Meadowbank Sports Arena, Cookstown Leisure Centre and Maghera Leisure Centre and where open to adults with various types of disabilities. Each session lasted 1 hour and consisted of circuits and small fun games that allowed the participants to improve on their health and wellbeing. These sessions also allowed each individual to enjoy sport and physical activity in a fun and safe environment whilst meeting new friends. Please see below pictures from the Adult Learning Support Programme.

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L Minutes of Meeting of the Development Committee of Mid Ulster District Council held on Thursday 13 April 2017 in the Council Offices, Burn Road, Cookstown

Members Present Councillor Molloy, Chair

Councillors Burton (7.08 pm), Clarke, Cuddy, Doris, Elattar, Forde, McEldowney, McNamee, T Quinn, G Shiels, Wilson

Officers in Ms Campbell, Director of Culture and Leisure Attendance Mr McCreesh, Director of Business and Communities Mr Browne, Head of Tourism Mr Glavin, Head of Leisure Mr Hill, Head of Parks Ms Linney, Head of Community Development Mr McCance, Head of Culture and Arts Ms McKeown, Head of Economic Development Miss Thompson, Committee Services Officer

Others in Agenda Item 4 – Lough Neagh Development Trust Attendance Paul Donaldson, Co-Ordinator Iain Frazer

The meeting commenced at 7.02 pm.

D072/17 Apologies

Councillors McAleer, Monteith and C O’Neill.

D073/17 Declaration of Interests

The Chair reminded members of their responsibility with regard to declarations of interest.

Councillor McEldowney declared an interest in item D080/17 – Sports Representative Grants.

Councillor McNamee declared an interest in Community Transport, Shopmobility, Cookstown AOH, Cookstown Community Allotments, and Cookstown Fr Rocks GFC.

Councillor T Quinn declared an interest in Cookstown Town Twinning, Speedwell Trust, Friends of Killymoon Castle.

Councillor G Shiels declared an interest in Mid Ulster Volunteer Centre and Involve (NI).

Councillor Cuddy declared an interest in Dungannon Enterprise Centre.

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Councillor Wilson declared an interest in Friends of Killymoon Castle, Cookstown Youth Football Club, Cookstown Town Twinning and Cookstown Enterprise Centre.

Councillor Doris declared an interest in Dungannon Enterprise Centre.

D074/17 Chair’s Business

None.

D075/17 Lough Neagh Development Trust

The Chair welcomed Mr Donaldson and Mr Frazer from Lough Neagh Development Trust and invited them to make their presentation.

Mr Donaldson advised that public ownership of Lough Neagh was raised in the Assembly in 2012 by Francie Molloy MLA. The Assembly supported the idea of public ownership and a cross departmental working group was established, however this group reported that it could not identify any tangible benefits to public ownership. This led to DARD commissioning Development Trusts NI to explore the case for the establishment of a Community Development Trust to acquire and strategically manage Lough Neagh. Development Trusts NI undertook an investigation which saw commitment from stakeholders to future partnership working and from this Lough Neagh Development Trust was formed.

Lough Neagh Development Trust now has an interim board in place, is engaged with the Earl of Shaftesbury, community groups, Councils, DAERA and potential funders. A recruitment campaign to the Friends of Lough Neagh is also in progress. The current priorities of the Development Trust is to continue to build awareness of the aims of the Trust and to seek assistance in relation to financial resourcing. Mr Donaldson also advised of the Lough Neagh Development Trust website and encouraged Members to register as a Friend of Lough Neagh.

Councillor Burton entered the meeting at 7.08 pm during the above presentation.

Councillor G Shiels stated that the Shaftesbury Estate had been mindful of the ecology of Lough Neagh over the years and asked if the Trust could be relied upon to continue to look after the Lough. The Councillor asked the representatives why they wanted to put a “millstone” around their necks by taking ownership of Lough Neagh and asked if the Development Trust would be cross community.

Mr Donaldson advised that the community will decide what the Trust does and will become guardian of the environment. Mr Donaldson advised there was a sense that governance of the Lough would improve by community ownership. In relation to whether Lough Neagh is an asset or liability Mr Donaldson advised that there was a journey to be taken prior to acquisition however he stated the Lough did look like an asset at the moment and that there were things that could be done which could raise income.

Mr Donaldson advised that one of the reasons for Friends of Lough Neagh is that it is open to everyone who has an interest.

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Mr Frazer stated it would not be in anyone’s interest to damage the ecology of Lough Neagh but that more cohesive strategic management would be beneficial. Mr Frazer stated the Development Trust would have an interest in the management issues of the Lough.

In response to Councillor Cuddy’s question Mr Donaldson advised that, going forward, the Development Trust have a vision and that there is a community commitment towards this vision.

Councillor Cuddy asked if the current owner had a price in mind for Lough Neagh.

Mr Donaldson advised that negotiations had not reached that stage but that when discussing terms in the future money would be a consideration along with others.

Councillor Clarke stated it was good to see a community interest in Lough Neagh and wished the Development Trust success in the future.

The Chair, Councillor Molloy stated that Lough Neagh Development Trust were working to the overall good of everyone living around the Lough.

Mr Frazer advised that the purpose of meeting with Councils is to raise awareness of Lough Neagh Development Trust, he stated that their presentations had received a favourable response and hoped this would continue in the future.

The Chair, Councillor Molloy thanked Messrs Donaldson and Frazer for their presentation following which they left the meeting at 7.27 pm.

Matters for Decision

D076/17 Economic Development Report

The Head of Economic Development presented previously circulated report which provided an update on key activities as detailed below – • Department for Communities (DfC) Revitalise Scheme 2016/2017 – Cookstown, Dungannon and Magherafelt Town Centres

Councillor McNamee asked if there was any likelihood of another Living Over The Shops scheme in Cookstown.

The Head of Economic Development advised that Council had received correspondence from the department some time ago in relation to its interest in participating in a future Living Over The Shops scheme. The Head of Economic Development stated that a reply had been issued to the department advising that Council would be keen to participate in a future scheme however no further correspondence had been received in relation to this. The Head of Economic Development agreed to follow up on the matter.

• Department for Communities (DfC) Funding – Cleansing/Minor Works, Burn Road, Cookstown

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• Dungannon Town Centre Brand • Ann Street Development Site, Dungannon

Councillor Cuddy asked if there was any update in relation to this matter and stressed the importance of Members being involved. The Councillor stated that the development of the current space at Ann Street needed to work for the future of the whole town.

The Director of Business and Communities advised that a process was in place which had been agreed with Members. At the moment the site was being marketed for an 8 week period in which development proposals should be received by 12 May 2017. The Director stated he took on board Councillor Cuddy’s comments and at the end of the marketing phase of the process officers would engage again with Members.

The Head of Economic Development advised that as of today there were 33 expressions of interest in the site.

• Superfast Broadband Deployment

Councillor Clarke felt that it would be difficult to argue one postcode over another as no one within Council had the technical experience. The Councillor asked what portion of the £4million funding would come to Mid Ulster.

The Head of Economic Development advised she had also asked this question of Departmental officials a few weeks back but at that stage, the information was not available. The officer stated she could ask for this information again.

Councillor Burton asked if the postcodes listed represented a spread of Mid Ulster, she stated that the public were getting fed up of being continually consulted on this issue and no progress being made. Councillor Burton stated she would like to see postcode BT71 4EB added to the list.

The Head of Economic Development advised that the postcodes listed were spread across the District however postcodes could not be added to the list unless others were being removed. The officer stated that she was aware of the concerns of the public in relation to accessing broadband and that work would continue with the relevant Government Department and others to try to find a longer term solution.

Councillor Burton asked if the postcodes listed were within the rural community, the Councillor also asked if there was an opportunity to link this matter with Rural Development monies.

The Head of Economic Development stated that the postcodes listed represented a good spread across the district, the most of which were in rural locations.

Councillor Wilson felt that Council should accept what has been proposed but felt that the biggest issue was that superfast broadband was not available within Cookstown. Councillor Wilson proposed that BT be invited to a future meeting to

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discuss what they are doing within the Mid Ulster area and to provide postcodes of where superfast broadband is available within the District.

Councillor Burton seconded Councillor Wilson’s proposal.

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to – • To accept the 49 postcodes which the Department for the Economy have identified in Mid Ulster to receive superfast broadband improvement works identified by BT’s engineering model. Council to forward letter to Department for Economy to confirm this acceptance whilst also expressing any issues with the process. • To invite BT to a future meeting to discuss rollout of superfast broadband in Mid Ulster.

• Digital Marketing Support from Derry City and Strabane District Council re Interim Business Start Up Programme

Proposed by Councillor McNamee Seconded by Councillor Clarke and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to approve the Service Level Agreement with Derry City and Strabane District Council for Digital Marketing Support for the period 1 April 2017 to 30 September 2017 at a cost of up to £3,658 (excluding vat).

• Proposal to EU Growth and Jobs Programme (Tender Programme)

Proposed by Councillor McNamee Seconded by Councillor Burton and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to approve officers to develop a proposal for a Mid Ulster Tender Programme submission to the Growth and Jobs Programme for total estimated costs of £265,000, supporting approximately 150 businesses and contributing towards the creation of 240 new jobs, and requiring approximately £53,000 over the next four years from the economic development budget.

• Renewable Engine Programme

Proposed by Councillor Doris Seconded by Councillor McNamee and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to confirm Council’s agreement to act as an Associate Partner on the Renewable Engine Programme, led by South West College.

• Brexit and the Border Corridor

Councillor Wilson stated he would like further details on the Brexit Border Corridor event including details of all event speakers along with what the aims of the event

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are. The Councillor also stated he would like to see the terms of reference for the Border Corridor Study as he did not feel an equal point of view would be expressed.

Councillor Cuddy stated there was a need for a balance of opinion as Brexit would have a future impact on everyone.

Councillor McNamee advised that there were a further two conferences scheduled.

The Director of Business and Communities advised that Mid Ulster was a border council which would face the impacts of Brexit and that it was important for this type of event to take place to discuss challenges and opportunities with other border Councils.

In relation to the Border Corridor study, the Director advised that this was being undertaken by Ulster University who are an impartial body.

Proposed by Councillor McNamee Seconded by Councillor Clarke and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to note the Brexit Border Corridor event taking place on 4 May 2017 and that Council issues invites to its elected members, relevant officials and Chambers of Commerce in the area and act as conduit for responses. To approve financial contribution to (a) the Border Corridor Study completed by UIster University and (b) the Border Corridor event taking place on 4 May 2017 – Council’s contribution to each of these are not yet known but can be covered within the LED budget.

D077/17 GI Trail Northern Ireland – The Eisenhower Trail

The Head of Tourism presented previously circulated report which provided detail on the GI Trail for Northern Ireland and in particular the Eisenhower Trail which covers County Tyrone and County Fermanagh.

Proposed by Councillor Cuddy Seconded by Councillor Wilson and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to support the request regarding sponsorship of trail leaflets up to a maximum of £1447.50 and subject to Fermanagh and Omagh Council providing the same level of funding.

D078/17 Never Felt Better Festival

The Head of Tourism presented previously circulated report which sought approval for rebranding of Straw Festival in Magherafelt into a “Never Felt Better” Festival from 12-17 June 2017.

In response to Councillor Wilson’s comments the Head of Tourism advised that the name ‘Never Felt Better’ had been tested and agreed by legacy Magherafelt Council.

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Proposed by Councillor Clarke Seconded by Councillor McNamee and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to approve the rebranding of the Straw Festival into the Never Felt Better Festival, profiling Magherafelt and reinforcing the town brand.

D079/17 Every Body Active 2020 Small Grants Programme

The Head of Leisure presented previously circulated report which sought approval for Council to submit an expression of interest in being involved with Every Body Active 2020 Small Grants Programme.

Proposed by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor McNamee and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to submit an expression of interest in being involved with the Every Body Active 2020 Small Grants Programme to support the delivery of new, extended or existing small grants programmes to strengthen and extend participation in sport especially amongst women/girls, people with a disability and those living in areas of greatest need within the District.

D080/17 Sports Representative Grants

The Head of Leisure presented previously circulated report which detailed proposed community grant allocations for the range of Sports Representative Grant – Team and Individuals.

Proposed by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor McNamee and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to approve sports representative grants for team and individuals as detailed in appendix to report.

D081/17 Partnership with Disability Sport NI on provision of a Disability Sports Hub based at Mid Ulster Sports Arena, Cookstown

The Head of Leisure presented previously circulated report which sought permission to proceed to develop a partnership with Disability Sport NI for provision of a Disability Sports Hub based at Mid Ulster Sports Arena, Cookstown.

Councillor McNamee advised that a number of years ago Cookstown Council had written to the then Minister for Agriculture regarding Council acquisition of additional land for Mid Ulster Sports Arena. The Councillor advised that this proposal had received a positive response but had not been progressed at the time. Councillor McNamee stated that there was great demand on the Sports Arena and proposed that Council resume discussions with DAERA on whether land would still be available for its future growth.

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Councillor T Quinn seconded Councillor McNamee’s proposal.

Councillor Doris requested an audit of Council play parks regarding the availability of equipment for those with mental and physical disabilities.

The Director of Culture and Leisure advised that work was ongoing across a range of areas which included a Parks Strategy which would look at inclusive play. The Director advised that a report would be brought before a future committee.

Proposed by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor McNamee and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council – • That Officers work with Disability NI to develop the Memorandum of Understanding and Development Plan for provision of a Disability Sports Hub based at Mid Ulster Sports Arena for a two year period from April 2017 to March 2019. Officers to report back to seek agreement on Draft documents. • That Council engage with DAERA regarding acquisition of lands for expansion of Mid Ulster Sports Arena.

D082/17 Community Development Report

The Head of Community Development presented previously circulated paper which sought approval for proposals from Peace IV Partnership and Peace IV Shared Space Project. Approval was also sought in relation to CCTV contract for Mid Ulster (main towns) and an update was provided on Community Development matters.

Proposed by Councillor McNamee Seconded by Councillor Burton and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council – • Peace IV – Regional Shared Space Project – To extend the professional support to a maximum of £5000 to allow for additional complementary plans to be developed as part of the process. Expenditure to be secured within budget. • Peace IV Local Action Plan – (a) Vulnerable People Programme – To change the title of this project to People suffered as a result of the Troubles Programme. (b) Grants – to approve opening in May and closing in July 2017. • Mid Ulster CCTV – To award the CCTV contract to Wired Up Security at a cost of £82,408. Annual cost breakdown of £33,800 year 1 and £23, 804 year 2 and 3, as per budget.

D083/17 Grants Report

The Head of Community Development presented previously circulated report which set out proposed community grant allocations.

8 – Development Committee (13.04.17)

Councillor Clarke declared an interest in applications relating to Broughderg Area Development Association. Councillor Cuddy declared an interest in Aughintober Regeneration. Councillor Doris declared an interest in Coalisland District Development Association. Councillor Molloy declared an interest in Square Wheels CC. Councillor Burton declared an interest in COSTA and advised that a family member was involved with Bawn Development Association. Councillor Wilson declared an interest in Cookstown District Lodge No3.

The Head of Community Development advised that there were monies remaining in Sports Club Development Grant, therefore a further public call of applications would be made along with the Sports Capital Grants.

Councillor McNamee commended the work of officers in bringing forward the proposed grant allocation.

Councillor Burton referred to discussion at previous meeting regarding the small community development grant and whether this could be continued as a rolling programme to allow for new groups that set up throughout the year.

The Head of Community Development advised that if there had been budget left this grant could have continued however the budget under this area had been fully allocated. It was advised that if new groups are set up they should get in contact with officers who can provide advice on other small funding awards such as the volunteering grant.

The Chair, Councillor Molloy referred to the amount of work put in by officers and stated that the award of grants from Council is the mainstay for a lot of groups for the year.

Councillor Burton asked if there would be a presentation of grants.

The Director of Business and Communities advised that officers could discuss publicity regarding award of grants with marketing and communications department as this was a good news story for Council.

Proposed by Councillor McNamee Seconded by Councillor Burton and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to approve grant allocations as set out in appendix to report.

D084/17 Memorial Benches and Trees Policy

The Director of Culture and Leisure presented previously circulated report which advised Members on Council Policy on Memorial Benches and Trees at Council facilities.

Councillor Cuddy referred to the mangle located adjacent to Howard Primary School along with others sited in Dungannon and advised that these had been donated to

9 – Development Committee (13.04.17)

the town. The Councillor advised that it had been agreed by legacy council to have information plaque at the mangle locations however this had never happened.

Councillor Cuddy also referred to Altmore Reservoir and discussions by legacy council regarding its purchase. The Councillor felt there was opportunity for this Council to look again at the purchase of the Reservoir.

The Director of Culture and Leisure agreed to investigate both matters raised by Councillor Cuddy.

Councillor Wilson stated that he supported the policy and whilst Council should be sensitive to requests it needed to be careful going forward and felt that the planting of trees may be a better option than memorial benches.

The Director of Culture and Leisure advised that the policy allowed for either a tree or bench to be provided and would only be approved after a suitable site had been identified by Council. The policy and application process does not commit the Council to providing a site for all requests and may offer alternative locations where possible or refuse applications if no suitable site exists.

Councillor T Quinn advised that whilst he agreed with the policy in principle he also agreed with Councillor Wilson’s comments. The Councillor asked if any other Councils had implemented a similar policy and if there was any feedback on how it was operating.

The Director of Culture and Leisure advised that the proposed policy put forward was based on that of other Councils who have a similar policy in place.

Councillor Cuddy referred to memorial bench located in Dungannon by legacy council and that there was now a situation whereby local residents want it removed because of anti social behaviour.

The Director of Culture and Leisure stated that the policy and criteria included conditions which should ensure Council is able to manage requests.

In response to a query from Councillor Clarke, the Director of Culture and Leisure advised that the policy did not include venues that the Council rented but would include facilities Council owned or operated under for example licence or long term lease.

Proposed by Councillor McNamee Seconded by Councillor Clarke and

Resolved That it be recommended to Council to approve policy on Memorial Benches and Trees on Council property as attached at appendix to report.

10 – Development Committee (13.04.17)

Matters for Information

D085/17 Minutes of Development Committee held on Wednesday 15 March 2017

Members noted minutes of Development Committee held on Wednesday 15 March 2017.

D086/17 External Investment Leverage 2016-17

Members noted previously circulated report which advised of external investment leverage by the Business and Communities Department to support Council priorities in 2016-17.

D087/17 Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020

Members noted previously circulated report which provided update on progress with the interim Rural Development Strategy for Mid Ulster.

D088/17 Irish Language Implementation Working Group minutes of meeting of 15 November 2016

Members noted previously circulated report which contained minutes of the Irish Language Implementation Working Group held on 15 November 2016.

Local Government (NI) Act 2014 - Confidential Business

Proposed by Councillor McNamee Seconded by Councillor Clarke and

Resolved In accordance with Section 42, Part 1 of Schedule 6 of the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 that Members of the public be asked to withdraw from the meeting whilst Members consider items D089/17 to D093/17.

Matters for Decision D089/17 Service Level Agreements D090/17 Long term lease of Beechway football pitches and pavilion D091/17 Dungannon Leisure Centre Improvements and Development D092/17 Cookstown Town Twinning Moto Club de Plerin Visit 6-9 May 2017 Matters for Information D093/17 Confidential Minutes of Development Committee held on Wednesday 15 March 2017

11 – Development Committee (13.04.17)

D094/17 Duration of Meeting

The meeting commenced at 7 pm and concluded at 8.50 pm.

CHAIR ______

DATE ______

12 – Development Committee (13.04.17)

Report on Lough Neagh Partnership CORE Funding

Reporting Officer Michael Browne

Contact Officer Allison O’Keefe

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No X

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To provide Members with an update of progress to date.

2.0 Background

2.1 Lough Neagh Partnership is the main co-ordinating body for tourism, leisure, environmental, heritage and marketing activities on Lough Neagh. It delivers programmes on behalf of local and central government and provides continuous marketing Lough Neagh. It has also developed the Lough Neagh and Its Waterways Destination Management Plan.

Lough Neagh Partnership co-ordinate and market tourism, recreational, environmental and heritage activities on Lough Neagh and the Lough Neagh shoreline on behalf of Mid Ulster District Council. Specifically, reviewing the Destination Management Plan and deliver the LN Landscape Partnership Scheme (Heritage Lottery).

3.0 Main Report

3.1 End of Year report 1 April 2016 – 31 March 2017

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: £25,000

Human: N/A

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

N/A

4.3 Risk Management Implications

N/A

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 N/A

6.0 Documents Attached & References

Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1

ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION: LOUGH NEAGH PARTNERSHIP – CORE ACTIVITIES & DESTINATION MANAGEMENT PLAN ACTIVITIES (£25,000)

PROGRESS REPORT 2: 31 MARCH 2017

Lough Neagh Funding and Core Funding Contribution Targets Target Quantifiable Outputs Position at 31 March 2017 Dates 1. Landscape Partnership Project 31/03/20 As outlined in Landscape Partnership Action The Landscape Partnership (LP) is underway with staff appointed in Aug/September Oversee delivery of the Lough Neagh 17 Plan. Overall benefit to MUDC £1 million. 16. The LNO Manager continues to have an overseeing role. Landscape Partnership project LNP staff have met with MUDC to progress projects. (See separate LP report from Implementation staff will be covered by LP manager W Burke) HLF, however, the Lough Neagh The HLF Landscape Partnership will benefit MUDC to the value of £987,687. Partnership Manager will have an overseeing role for the entire project. o expand Access Investigation Report with costed recommendations for the preferred route and a) Ardboe Cross to Battery Harbour Access landowner engagement details completed. Design detail on 3km walkway and visitor Route & Car Park – Phase 1 - Complete carpark completed. Phase 2 – Implementation works will begin in 2nd year from access plan, and land negotiations and April 2017 final design detail.

b) Archaeological conservation and 3 investigations completed at Ardboe, Brocagh and Church Island. 1 building investigation works at Church Island, conserved at Church Island. 1 WW II site audited at Toome Airfield. 12 schools Lough Beg and Mountjoy; Local History across the District participated in the Schools engagement programme. Lough Neagh Conference; Schools Programme Connections programme delivered. Experimental archaeology workshop on traditional boat building completed

c) Design, manufacture and installation of Audit of signage complete and company procured with work on interpretative signed heritage signage – MUDC commenced. Brand agreed

2. Destination Marketing Plan March 2.1.1) Initial review of DMP with Tourism NI Initial review completed February 2016 with Tourism NI and subsequent internal LNP 2017 carried out and agreed that it was necessary meetings in May 2016 and September 2016 when final cluster groups were agreed (See 2.1)Working with Mid Ulster Council to establish Themed Groups. Appendix 1- Cluster Project 2016-17) and stakeholders, review the Destination Management Plan in order to clearly 2.1.2) Four Themed Cluster Groups Themed groups agreed as follows: identify tourism product and devise a established and Action Plans for each theme • Land based activities, tourism marketing plan. developed (throughout 2016/17) • Water based activities, • Food, Four themes: 1. Lough Neagh Food • Heritage and 1. Lough Neagh Food 2. Lough Neagh Heritage • Eco tourism. 2. Lough Neagh Heritage 3. Outdoor Activities (Shoreline) incl. (Heaney Cluster impacts on Lough Neagh but this is being taken forward by Mid Ulster 3. Outdoor Activities (Shoreline) ecotourism Council.) including eco-tourism 4. Outdoor (Lough & River based) 4. Outdoor (Lough and river Food Cluster meetings have taken place January and March 17 with 2 representatives based) Revised Destination Marketing Plan from MU district. Tourism product defined and development needs identified. developed (please forward copy) Activity Cluster meetings took place January and March 17. 1 representative from (The Heaney theme is primarily the MU area. Heritage and Eco tourism clusters meeting May 17. Representation to be responsibility of MUDC but will be finalised. Early indications are that this will be a very worthwhile exercise in included in the revised DMP) determining a way forward for Lough Neagh Tourism.

2.2) Develop the tourism and cultural 2.2) 10 tourism/hospitality/recreational Mid Ulster training took place 4th January 2017, 10am – 5pm, Loughry College, tourism skill base of local tourism providers within MUDC will be equipped to Cookstown. Programme changed to 1 full day to facilitate businesses and enable extra providers and communities in grow their businesses through: businesses from Mid Ulster to attend (11 businesses and 12 people) accordance with Theme 3 of the DMP • Increasing online presence and becoming Action Plan by implementing a digital more competitive. Samantha Wallace The Royal Hotel marketing skills programme for 10 • Finding and engaging with new James Walsh Tours businesses within the MUDC area by end customers Kathleen Walls Waterfoot Cottage March 2017. • Increasing their customer base Rosalind Mulholland Ballyscullion House

• Widening their geographical reach Terry McCrory Heraldic Craft Programme consists of 3 half day Cathy Chauhan Lough Neagh Fishermen's Co-op • Accessing new markets modules with 10 businesses. All Mid Ann Marie McFerran The Old Thatch Inn • Improving sales and profits Ulster businesses will be attending the Kristal Olphert Tullylagan House Hotel same sessions. Brian Ward Ronan Cottage 10 businesses complete digital marketing Jayne Greer & Norman Bell Lissan House programme by March 2017 Colin Doyle Shepherds Rest

A further 4 businesses registered but were unable to attend on the day.

E Kearney delivered the programme on behalf of NB Chartered Communications who were the successful tenderers.

3. Marketing Lough Neagh Mar 17 3.1 Minimum of 20 events per District. All events submitted by MUDC to TNI featured on LNP website. 3.1 Ensure that VICs provide event MUDC events submitted to TNI will be information to Tourism NI on regular featured on Discover Lough Neagh website basis & app

3.2 Co-ordination of Tourism NI 3.2 2 advertorials - Spring and Autumn Lough Neagh Partnership won the prestigious ‘Best Marketing Achievement’ award marketing features for LN Work includes for ‘Eel-eat’ at the Belfast Telegraph NI Year of Food & Drink Awards, beating off co—ordination of marketing features for competition from a number of larger companies. Congratulations to our Marketing NITB productions/ advertorials. Officer Eimear Kearney. Eel-eat was a marketing campaign aimed at getting restaurants to feature Lough Neagh eels on their menus. A number of MU restaurants took part. No advertorial opportunities but did avail of feature in Bitesize (Year of Food and Drink). Eel- eat element related to Mid Ulster. 3.3 Production & distribution of Lough Neagh E-Newsletter for stakeholders & 3.3 4 stakeholder newsletters – Quarterly 7 Stakeholder newsletters issued. May, June (2), Aug, Oct (2) and Dec consumers online.

3.4 Review and update website regularly with events, newsletters and other 3.4 The website & app have just been Updated website launched and fully operational www.discoverloughneagh.com promotional information rebuilt, they will be updated weekly New Lough Neagh App launched. Available from apple and android app stores. www.discoverloughneagh.com

3.5 Issue of event updates and press 3.5 Minimum 6 press releases 10 press releases issued to date including press release in Mid Ulster mail and Observer releases. re digital skills training 2nd Feb

3.6 Consumer & Trade pages on 3.6 200 posts for facebook/twitter Consumer Newsletters issued May, June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct and Dec. Mid Ulster Facebook & Twitter Tourism Digital Strategy Survey circulated on 6th Feb 17 Min 5 per wk. Facebook insights data available for April – August & September - January) – target exceeded on Facebook alone

3.7 Co-ordinate an electronic Christmas Blog Competition (replacing photography Colour competition complete. Electronic and printed version with mail drop. Over colouring competition within local competition) this will encourage visitors to 500 entries. Top 10 shortlisted. Winner decided by public vote via Facebook. Winner primary schools Lough Neagh to write about their trip to the announced on 22nd Dec. destination and include photography and/or 3.8 Increase SEO optimisation of videos. LNP will feature the top 10 blogs on Blog competition produced a very worthy winner. However a number of the blogs discoverloughneagh.com through a co- the destination website, which will have submitted were not suitable and LNP published a series of blogs in-house, 29 of ordinated social media Blog Competition significant SEO value for the destination which related to Mid Ulster. and link relevant blogs to MUDC website and also for the individual visitor website attractions featured in the blog. A link can Our blogs are only posted to www.discoverloughneagh.com. Links to the relevant also be included to Mid Ulster Council on the MUDC businesses were included – blogs can be viewed here: relevant blogs. http://www.discoverloughneagh.com/news/ - the improved SEO activity can be noted from the growth in visitor numbers to the website monthly (the growth continues through off-peak season for the destination and is related to the blog activity – Marketing evidence available

3.9 Promote the destination and its Lough Neagh Partnership will attend trade • River to Lough - Destination Stand events at relevant trade fairs and fairs and exhibitions where opportunities • North South Co-operation Workshop in Newry – Information Stand exhibitions in co-ordination with arise to promote the destination and its • Launch of Environment Week at Stormont – Information Stand councils events. We do not envisage taking • Marketing Officer, Eimear Kearney also participates in Heaney Cluster. destination stands of our own as this would be cost prohibitive. We are looking at LNP did not approach MUDC to attend exhibitions- LNP includes 5 council areas promoting the destination/events at Garden and as such would have to be consistent throughout all five districts. However, this Show Ireland, Balmoral show, St Georges can be considered in future. Market, River to Lough Festival (managed by LNP) and hopefully Lumarina - these will be dependent on councils giving LNP permission to promote from their stand.

4. Lough Neagh Cycle Trail Mar 17

Monitor condition of Lough Neagh Monitor condition of Lough Neagh Cycle LNP is currently liaising with Rachael Ludlow from Sustrans, which has recently Cycle Trail as part of the establishment Trail signage and replace signage when carried out an audit of the NCN routes including signage and reviewing the volunteer of a Heritage Trail under the HLF required, providing MUDC with update of rangers that Sustrans have in the area and the need to recruit more as soon as Landscape partnership project (Is this not any required or new signage in the MUDC possible. Sustrans have asked for LNP support to ensure that the current route is then receiving funding under the HLF?) area better maintained and improved for the enjoyment of all users. We have been The physical development of the informed by Sustrans that the data has not been fully processed and therefore the Heritage Trail will be funded under the Clarification sought with Antrim & audit is not available yet. Landscape Partnership. However, the Newtownabbey Council over small section proposal is that the Cycle Trail and the where signage may need to be addressed Heritage Trail would complement each other

Market Lough Neagh Cycle Trail as a Increased visitor numbers to Lough Neagh There are no official stats for LN Cycle Trail. We will discuss with Sustrans to see if valuable tourism and recreational asset to Cycle Trail. stats can be provided. Lough Neagh Destination

5. Lough Neagh Community Trust Mar 17 Shadow Lough Neagh Development Trust established March 2016. LNP Chairperson is one of the Interim Directors. Funding to DTNI to carry out agreed actions not Work with Development Trust NI to approved yet due to change of Minister. In meantime LNP Marketing Officer has ensure that the “shadow” Community Lough Neagh Community Trust operational built an LNDT website and is currently working with DTNI to focus on IT/ website Trust (which was established in March by end March 2017 elements to enable Trust to get back to communities and other stakeholders and give 2016) becomes operational them a way to register their support for the Trust www.loughneaghdevelopmenttrust.org/

6. Lough Neagh Cooperation Project

Facilitate the securing of a Rural Rural Development Co-Operation project Co-operation project submitted to Mid Ulster LAG. Two meetings between 5 LAGS Development Project in conjunction with secured to repair lough-shore facilities to consider proposal. Emma O Carroll from SOAR agreed as Lead Partner. Also Mid Ulster Council and Mid Ulster Local owned by MUDC. attendance at cross border workshop to investigate how project would work. Cross Action Group to bring benefits to the border partners to be invited to next meeting. Mid Ulster District in terms of lough- shore facilities owned by Council. (Copy of project proposal available)

7. Lough Neagh Food Programme Mar 17 • Identification of partners See Food Cluster above Develop strategy for Lough Neagh food • Development of funding proposal with particular emphasis on LN fish with • Submission of proposal when EU funding affected by BREXIT a view to securing EU or RDP funding programme opens. for a food programme. Involve relevant • EU or RDP funding secured to RDP programme has not opened yet. Therefore a proposal cannot be developed until partners Food NI, Tourism NI, Sperrins deliver a Lough Neagh Food programme criteria are published & Donegal Enterprise in proposal Programme, involving relevant partners 8. Liaison with MUDC

Ongoing liaison MUDC Minimum 3 meetings with MUDC officers Meetings held in January and February. Representative of MUDC attends monthly in 2016/17. meetings

9. MUDC and Outdoor NI Assist Outdoor NI to develop outdoor Meeting held Jan 17 and all available information provided to Outdoor NI recreation strategy for MUDC 10. Lough Neagh Connections To make better connections around Lough Lough Neagh Connections Symposium held on 15/02/17 at Ballyronan. Guest Symposium Neagh speakers including Barry Devlin (locally born musician, dramatist, scriptwriter and (Part of Landscape Partnership director) and Joe Mahon (Lesser Spotted Ulster) discussed and explored the history, Programme) heritage and society of the Lough Shore to an audience of almost 100 who attended from all around the Lough.

Report on Lough Neagh Partnership HLF Landscape

Reporting Officer Michael Browne

Contact Officer Allison O’Keefe

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No x

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To provide Members with an update of progress to date.

2.0 Background

2.1 Lough Neagh Partnership secured a Heritage Lottery funded Landscape Partnership project worth £3.5 million which involves delivery of 27 capital and revenue projects over the period 2016 to 2021 through a collaborative working partnership between Councils, statutory agencies and community organisations/NGO’s.

The £99,059 match conditional funding secured from Mid Ulster District Council has contributed to the Lough Neagh Landscape Partnership Programme, specifically the delivery of:

a. Ardboe Walk and Development of Car Park b. Archaeology Project Goals 1, 2 and 3 c. Lough Heritage Signage

Mid Ulster District Council agreed to provide £35,4000 of the total in year 1 covering period 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2017

3.0 Main Report

3.1 Progress report of activities in Year 1 from 1 April 2016 – 31 March 2017

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: N/A

Human: N/A

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

N/A

4.3 Risk Management Implications

N/A

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 N/A

6.0 Documents Attached & References

Appendix 1 Appendix 1

YEAR 1 CONTRIBUTION: LOUGH NEAGH PARTNERSHIP LANDSCAPE PROJECT (£35,400)

Targets Target Measureable Outputs Measureable Outcomes Position (At 31st March 2017) Date 1. Ardboe High Cross to Battery • Phase 1 - Complete access Walkway – preferred route option Access Investigation Report with costed Harbour plan, land negotiations and identified Battery Harbour to Ardboe recommendations for the preferred route and final design detail. Abbey, costed at £39,115 and landowner engagement details completed To develop a new parking facility 31/03/17 landowners engaged. MUDC to agree at Ardboe Graveyard permissive with landowners.

To develop a 3Km long shoreline • Phase 1 - 3km walkway Consultation with key stakeholders in Design detail completed. pathway from Ardboe High Cross advance of planning application Phase 2 – Implementation works will begin nd to the Battery Harbour by March • Car Park facility for Visitors including landowners, Transport NI, in 2 year from April 2017 2018. DEARA (Natural Heritage), Dept. for Communities – HED and MUDC Design detail completed Anticipate once completed 500 Officers. users year 1 to increase to 5,000 by year 3. • 5 Volunteers involved in 1 Volunteer engaged 1 Volunteer engaged who has accrued 3 delivery of development and volunteer days, assistance through implementation stages stakeholders, in particular landowners and route identification. Further volunteers to 31/03/18 • 10 volunteer days 10 volunteer days be recruited through Friends of Ardboe to provide community briefing sessions and facilitate sight visits, particularly around the Abbey area.

2. To deliver an archaeological 31/03/21 • 6 archaeology investigations 3 investigations completed at Ardboe, Geophysical survey completed at Ardboe and programme of activities around and surveys carried out (3 Brocagh and Church Island Brocagh. QUB currently working on this and Lough Neagh to include: relating MUDC) will release May 2017. • Archaeological Site Investigations • 3 buildings conserved (MUDC 1 building conserved at Church Island The Church building in partnership with • Exhibitions – Church Island) NIEA, arches and walls stabilised. Work • Experimental completed NIEA will continue to monitor Archaeology and manage the structure. • Heritage Skills 1 WW II site audited at Toome Airfield. • Cultural Heritage • WWII aviation sites audited 1 site audited. Community engagement. • Schools and researched Historical and photographic evidence • Publications collated with intention to publish between • Media 17/18. Work currently ongoing at Ardboe • Conservation Airfield. Anticipate completion by March 18 Access by March 2021 • 3 exhibitions (1 MUDC) 1 exhibition showing history and culture Year 2 of past life around the lough linked to the Reminiscence Project

• 20 cultural (6 MUDC) Events to include communities from events/walks/talks, place Ardboe to Toome names, WW II and fishermen reminiscence projects

• 300 schools sessions 12 schools sessions delivered in Schools engagement programme (Approximately 100 MUDC) Magherafelt, Cookstown, Washing Bay, commenced. 2 hr programmes aimed at Key Stewartstown and Moneymore stage 2 pupils and allows children to investigate their own environment around the Lough

3 Themes: • Monks & Vikings; • The Tudor years; • Victorian Lough

• 6 conferences workshops Lough Neagh Connections conference Programme Delivered by Time steps Living (2 in each council area) completed History Lough Neagh Connections on 15/02/17 at Ballyronan. Guest speakers including Barry Devlin and Joe Mahon discussed and explored the history, heritage and society of the Lough Shore to an audience of 100+ community representatives.

• 10 experimental archaeology 1experimental archaeology workshop Experimental archaeology boat building and skills workshops (Approx. on traditional boat building hosted by programme commenced. Delivered by 3 for MUDC) Lough Neagh Eel Cooperative with 8 Maghera Boat Builders, Toome. participants engaged

Future workshops will include a diverse range from Mesolithic through to basket weaving and pottery.

3. To develop and install new 31/12/17 • 42 new directional heritage Audit of signage requirements completed. interpretative, directional and signs branding signs associated with Interpretative template agreed. the heritage of Lough Neagh • 40 interpretation signs shoreline Totalis Solutions Ltd, Belfast procured and work on interpretative signs started. Total • Establishment of common Brand agreed by partners cost £158,267 (MUDC pro-rata) branding

Report on Mid Ulster District Tourism Development Group

Reporting Officer Michael Browne

Contact Officer Mary McGee

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No √

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To present Minutes of Tourism Development Group meeting held on Wednesdayth 8 February 2017 and ratified at meeting on 5 April 2017.

2.0 Background

2.1 Tourism Development Group (TDG) was established to create a working forum between Council and private sector businesses. The TDG will assist with policy development and support the implementation of Council’s Tourism Strategy and associated work in order to create economic growth, increase visitor numbers and create employment.

The group meet on a bi-monthly basis and as per the agreed Terms of Reference all business will be reported to Council through the Development Committee.

3.0 Main Report

3.1 The ratified minutes of the most recent meeting of the Tourism Development Group dated 8 February are attached as Appendix 1.

4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: NA

Human: NA

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

4.3 Risk Management Implications

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 Minutes for information.

6.0 Documents Attached & References

Appendix 1 – Minutes of Tourism Development Group Meeting dated 8 February 2017.

APPENDIX 1 MID ULSTER TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GROUP Wednesday 8 February 2017 at 10.30am In South West College, Dungannon

Attendees: Officers: Colleen Lowry - Blessingbourne Adrian McCreesh – Director of Business & Norman Bell - Lissan House Communities Lorna Robinson – Cloughbane Farm Michael Brown – Head of Service Anna-Marie McFerran - The Old Thatch Inn Mary McKeown - Tourism Manager Terry McCrory – Heraldic Craft Mary McGee - Business Engagement Simon Wiggins – South West College Genevieve Bell - Tourism Officer Kieran Walsh – Walsh’s Hotel Charmain Bell - Tourism Officer Neil Somerville – Horses Welcome Graeme Major – Tourist Information Supervisor Chair Cllr Sean Clark Sharon Arbuthnot - Events Officer Cllr Tony Quinn Cllr Walter Cuddy Secretariat: Cllr Niamh Doris Allison O’Keefe - Business Support Cllr Francis Burton

Apologies: Allastar McGarry – Northern Regional College, Grainne Mullholland – South West College

1. Address by A McCreesh, Director of Business and Communities A McCreesh, Director of Business & Communities outlined a Mid Ulster Council perspective on the Tourism Development Group. He thanked the private and voluntary sector and the members for giving of their time to participate and work on the Tourism Development Group and promised that as a Council committee, staff will service, provide administration and strategic direction so the group can be as effective as possible. It was noted that as part of local government reform statutory duties transfer to the local authority, one of these being community planning. Over the past number of months Council have engaged with hundreds of local businesses, community groups and voluntary groups and Council now have a draft community plan. Engagement on the plan closes on 13th February 2017 and Council continue to and are keen to receive all feedback and make alterations to the plan if required. Council sign off on the plan is imminent and launch of the plan is scheduled for 2nd week in April 2017. He spoke of the 5 key themes within the Plan:

• Economic Growth • Broadband • Education & Skills • Health & Wellbeing • Vibrant & Safe Communities

He spoke of the role of the Tourism Development Group as a driver to build and maximise visitor numbers and spend. He added that the group need to come up with a methodology to do so and that a mechanism to measure success is important. The tourism team have to address trade issues regarding figures, be accountable and set targets to deliver on growth. The team through the Tourism Strategy document are to identify key issues and set an action plan for the year. The Director reiterated that the group will have an opportunity to review this and work with the team to achieve outputs.

Director stressed the need for the industry to give consistent, accurate figures when reporting as this is the indicator of success for the tourism sector and the industry as a whole.

The group agreed with the Director that meetings should not only be about staff reporting but should be a two way process. It was also agreed that staff would look at timings and location of meetings to best service business needs. Director also asked members that if they were unable to attend to send along a representative so that the business or indeed the sector they represent did not miss out. He stressed that Mid Ulster Council area is underperforming in terms of visitor spend and we have to work hard to improve this.

The Chair noted that one key issue for the tourism sector is the issue of poor broadband and telecoms performance in the region, if this could be improved tourism would significantly benefit in particular. He thanked the Director for attending the meeting and for his presentation.

A McCreesh left the meeting at 10.59

2. Minutes of Meeting held on 30 November 2017 The minutes of the previous meeting, having been circulated in advance, were taken as read and correct

Proposed: Cllr T Quinn Seconded: N Bell

3. Matters Arising None

4. Tourism Clusters Expression of Interest M McGee circulated draft copy of public call to interest for the clusters and noted that these groups will meet on a 2 monthly basis and shadow the Tourism Development Group. Chair of each cluster will be invited to sit on the Tourism Development Group and report with the designated officer on their specific cluster.

5. Cluster Staff Reports 5.1 Seamus Heaney Business Engagement Officer provided an update on activities to date informing of the various promotional activities engaging with both trade, Tourism NI, Tourism Ireland, competitors and international tour operators. It was noted that a business has already received €1,100 in sales. Tourism businesses were also given the opportunity to attend a workshop held at Northern Regional College where MUDC staff assisted with uploading their business offers onto the ireland.com website and will be translated for availability worldwide. Officer added that there are plans to run similar workshops with SWC.

M McGee informed that money has been sourced through Tourism NI to fund key initiatives to complement Seamus Heaney HomePlace and Mid Ulster Tourism:

• Translation of promotional material/poems into key European languages • Local Tour Guiding Programme for 10 people • Tailored marketing/sales events in key Heaney locations in US, GB and Europe

Members discussed the importance of collating accurate and viable statistics. M McKeown, Tourism Manager advised that currently VIC staff complete detailed enquires reports so as to not rely solely on monitoring counters at access points and therefore can distinguish between visitor and staff. She agreed to forward same to tourism businesses. It was agreed to include Statistics as an item on the agenda for next meeting.

5.2 Archaeology, History and Heritage G Bell informed that a number of events will take place at major heritage sites over the course of the summer months. Hidden Heritage tours have proved very popular.

The tourism officer outlined a number of projects to develop historical products and sites across the district. A company has been appointed to carry-out an audit of the Carleton Trail, Clogher Valley, to improve signage, develop interpretation points, produce a brochure and provide information on the Trail digitally. Head of Service highlighted the achievement of MUDC tourism section securing HLF funding for 2 major projects around Lough Neagh and the Sperrins.

5.3US Links Presentation C Bell presented a story board outlining the significance of US links across Ulster with over 20 in mid ulster alone and links continuing to be found throughout US. She noted that there will be an opportunity with the Appalachian Trail to filter into mid Ulster and that a number of organisations are keen to get involved.

5.4 Outdoor Activities M McKeown, Tourism Manager reported that Tourism NI have given approval to develop a Mountain Biking Strategy for N Ireland. She also informed members that Outdoor NI have organised a workshop to assist accommodation providers within the vicinity of Davagh to package offers in conjunction with mountain biking.

Tourism Manager received an invitation to attend Northern Irelands first Tourism Alliance Forum where speakers representing Easyjet and Aer Lingus addressed attendees. Forums such as this already exist in the UK and ROI. She proposed that a representative of Mid Ulster Council TDG attend on behalf of Mid Ulster tourism to highlight issues such as broadband.

5.3 Events S Arbuthnot reported that a corporate events review process will take place to improve and make efficiencies. She spoke of the role that each department has to generate an economic benefit, create awareness, give a perception of the area and attract visitors. She felt early planning was key and working with external organisers is vital to avoid competition. The Events Officer reported that 12 corporate events were delivered across Mid Ulster between October and December 16.

In moving forward Council will now focus on a marketing plan and programme of events across the district including non-corporate, such as, Cookstown 100 and Clogher Valley Show. Work will begin on setting bench marks and evaluating events to improve growth, spend, visitor numbers and bed nights.

Tourism Manager congratulated Blessingbourne Estate who received a Mountain Bike NI award.

5.4 Good Food Circle (GFC) Tourism NI have partnered with Mid Ulster Council to offer a WorldHost Recognised Food Ambassador Programme at a significantly reduced rate to frontline tourism business staff.

In response to a query M McGee informed that all existing Good Food Circle members within the district along will be invited to remain in the cluster. Membership will also be extended to South Derry restaurants/coffee shops and will review including award winning takeaways.

6 Mid Ulster Council Tourism Strategy Tourism Manager announced that the launch of the strategy will take place 28 March at Corick House Hotel, Clogher. She provided a brief rundown of proceedings stressing the importance of bringing the key themes and products to showcase. M McKeown noted that Mid Ulster Council were the first of the 11 councils in N Ireland to launch their Tourism strategy.

7 Digital Strategy G Major informed that I 3 Digital have been appointed to prepare a Digital Strategy to identify the needs of the industry. The Strategy includes an Industry Hub to allow businesses to share information and a digital link to both Tourism NI/Tourism Ireland. Engagement with trade has taken place through workshops and digital surveys and will close 9 February.

8 Martina Totten, Mid Ulster Community Planning Coordinator M Browne welcomed M Totten to provide a brief overview of Councils responsibilities to community planning. M Totten circulated to members ‘Our Community Plan – 10 year plan for Mid Ulster’. As part of local government reform statutory duties are being transferred to the local authority, one of these being community planning. Council has a duty to ensure the delivery of actions by statutory partners. Consultation will end 13 February with the intention of publishing the plan in April. The officer welcomed any feedback from members and stated that she may invite a member of TDG to sit on a Community Planning working group.

9 Any Other Business Head of Service responded to a request for remuneration to members sitting on TDG, by stating that no mechanism is in place to allow for this.

9.3 Mid Ulster Visitor Guide This is now available digitally allowing visitors to link to business websites and email direct via MUDC website.

Member raised that there is a need for greater interaction with private sector at meetings. Head of Services agreed and with more discussion this may evolve naturally. Chair asked that officer’s reports are made available prior to meetings.

Date of next meeting Wednesday 5 April 2017 at 10.30am in Walsh’s Hotel, Maghera

Meeting ended at 12.26pm

Mid Ulster District Council tourism programme

2016 ‐ 2017

NI 2016 A Major Year for NI Tourism

Following on from the fantastic line‐up of events throughout the previous year, 2016 marked another great year for Mid Ulster Tourism and for Northern Ireland. With major Mid Ulster District Council focus on Northern Ireland’s Year of are planning some great things Food and Drink, a yearlong in the tourism sector this year celebration which boosted Northern such as the Ireland’s reputation as a destination. The year included a special food or Cookstown Continental drink theme for each month of the Markets, Cookstown Comedy calendar. Festival and our Hidden Heritage Programme. What’s more Seamus Heaney HomePlace opened 30th September 2016. The new arts and literary centre Mid Ulster District Council are in Bellaghy was oﬃcially opened with proud to be one of a few areas Poets, literary ﬁgures, extended outside of Belfast to host the family and friends, and prominent politicians among the attendees, markets. It is anticipated that which also included acclaimed this will attract both new and singer‐songwriter, Paul Brady, return visitors to the area. performing as part of the opening ceremony. Other key events of 2016 included Belsonic Festival which featured headline acts Tiesto, Ellie Goulding and Biffy Clyro

Hallmark events such as The Continental Markets, Cookstown Comedy Festival, Christmas Magical Kingdom Dungannon, Cookstown 100, Picnic in the Park, Magherafelt markets and Blooming Good Fun continue to attract visitors from across the province. tourism in northern Ireland 2016 Summary

The latest tourism data released by NISRA shows that performance during January ‐ September 2016 was positive, overall. Northern Ireland attracted more visitors, who stayed longer and spent more.

Almost 3.5 million overnight trips were taken by visitors and Northern Ireland residents (2% more than in the same period 2015). They stayed for 12.6 million nights (+3%) , generating over £658 million, £57 million more than during the same period in 2015 (+9%). This equates to some £2.4million spent by tourists every day during the period. GB and other overseas markets performed better, in the main, and contributed all of the increased revenue.

More of the January ‐ September trips were holiday trips (+5%), with the 1.67 million holiday trips rep‐ resenting almost half (47%) of all trips during this period (up from 46% in 2015). More holiday visitors were attracted from each key market area. The number of trips to visit friends and/or relatives also grew (+3%). https://tourismni.com/facts‐and‐ﬁgures/tourism‐performance‐statistics/ni‐annual‐and‐ quarterly‐tourism‐performance/

During January ‐ September 2016 visitors from all markets combined spent an unprecedented £658m in NI, up 9% on the first nine months of 2015. NI also welcomed 1.7m holiday visitors from GB, Other overseas, ROI & NI during the first nine months of the year. NI welcomed record levels of 1.9m visitors from outside NI in the first nine months of 2016, 10% more than the same period 2015. Strong growth was also evident from ROI trips with a welcome 3% increase in ROI holiday trips. The depreciating pound presents opportunities.

Tullaghoge Fort was the most popular visitor attraction in Mid Ulster LGD in 2015 and there were 134,126 visits to visitor attractions in 2015.

2016 saw a record 7.8m passengers using Northern Ireland’s airports. The Outlook for 2017 is promis‐ ing with a major conference involving the airline industry being held in Belfast 23—25 April 2017. – Seen as “a brilliant opportunity” to showcase the Northern Ireland tourism sector and to secure routes to a number of key European business hubs like Frankfurt. Air capacity has already increased for Winter 2016/17, with new European routes opening and new hotels are already appearing on the horizon. What’s more TNI’s December 2016 Industry Barometer also sees the industry in positive mood, with the outlook for 2017 strong, particularly for hotel and non‐accommodation providers.

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 % Change 2014- 2015 Overall Trips 115,796 168,532 141,232 213,732 155,708 -27%

Overall Nights 516,777 549,084 526,673 621,832 613,667 -1%

Overall £17.1m £23.2m £23.1 £26.6m £22.3m -16% Expenditure (£m)

Source: NISRA 29th May 2016 tourism programme introduction

The purpose of this report is to review tourism activity over 2016/17 and set clear concise objectives for 2017/18. The content of the Tourism Programme is determined by the natural progression, development and evaluation of projects delivered within the four key priorities and projects identiﬁed below:

1. tourism development 2. key events 3. marketing activity 4. business engagement 5. visitor information centre & visitor servicing

key priorities & projects

1. Tourism Development Outdoor  Davagh Forest Trail Development—Dark Sky project  Tyrone and the Sperrins scene driving route  Lough Neagh Partnership  Lower Bann study Heritage  Lough Neagh Partnership HLF project  Heart of Ancient Ulster—HLF project  US Grants refurbishment  Carleton Trail  US links Seamus Heaney  Seamus Heaney Activity Overview

2 Key Events

3 Marketing Activity  Marketing Activity Overview

4 Business Engagement

5 Visitor Information Centre & Visitor Servicing  VIC Overview  Tourism Signage Audit  District Wide Visitor Monitoring  Monitoring & Evaluation

7 1. tourism development PROJECT DETAIL 2016/17 Davagh Forest Development

Davagh Forest Trails was earmarked by Cookstown District Council as the key signature project in 2013. The picturesque forest, located in the west of the District beneﬁted from over £400,000 of investment which has resulted in the establishment of approximately 31km of walking, cycling and mountain bike trails, Pump Track and Skills Area, Changing Block , Bike wash, toilets and picnic areas. Phase one of this project was oﬃcially opened on Wednesday 10th April 2013.

Evidence suggests that the current development in Davagh Forest has been successful. This is based on a signiﬁcant increase in visitor numbers (as measured by electronic counters) which have greatly exceeded expectaons, selecon of the site as a venue for large scale mountain biking events, crical acclaim and posive PR from specialist mountain bike tles.

In June 2016 Mid Ulster District Council commissioned Outdoor Recreation and Cogent to develop a plan for the forest and focus on the following‐

 Further development of the Visitor Hub / Trail Head i.e. ancillary facilities / services and car parking  Introduction of a Dark Sky Observatory with a range of interpretation linking the heritage of the area with the night sky.  Addition of further mountain bike / walk trails

The following table summarises the visitor numbers to Davagh Forest between April 2013 and March 2016:

Car Park (No. of Visitor count on Visitor Count on *Counter installed in Davagh Forest Trails Cars) Trails Pump Track September 2013. April to June 2013 6,933 6,307 N/A

July to Sept 2013 5,453 6,385 256* Oct to Dec 2013 4,019 5,148 2,425 Jan to Mar 2014 3,788 4,130 1,646

Year 1 Total 20,193 21,970 4,071 April to June 2014 5,942 5,101 2,383 July to Sept 2014 5,378 5,162 2,464

Oct to Dec 2014 5,020 3,754 1,553 Jan to Mar 2015 4,675 3,577 1,283 Year 2 Total 21,015 17,595 7,683

April to June 2015 5,942 3,933 2,383 July to Sept 2015 6,453 4,780 2,227 Oct to Dec 2015 3,982 4,418 1,519

Jan to Mar 2016 3,885 4,473 1,643 Year 3 Total 20,262 17,604 7,772 Total 61,470 57,169 19,526

PROJECT DETAIL Davagh Forest Development

ORNI in conjuncon with the Council then idenﬁed the following vision as the most appropriate for Davagh Forest: ‘To become a ﬂagship aƩracƟon within the Sperrins’

The mission to achieve this vision was idenﬁed as:

‘Davagh Forest will become an outstanding visitor experience by developing a criƟcal mass of innovaƟve outdoor recreaƟon products which will aƩract day visitors and act as hook for holidaymakers to explore the wider area’

The following key objecves required to achieve this success were idenﬁed as:

To become the ﬁrst Dark Sky Park in Ireland

To establish the ﬁrst Dark Sky Observatory in (Northern) Ireland

To provide an outstanding family day out

To strengthen Naonal Mountain Bike Trail Centre Status Project Background for the Observatory and Glamping Pods

 Davagh Forest is owned and managed by Forest Service NI whose primary focus is sustainable forest management.  In 2008 Forest Service NI launched a strategy aimed at developing the recreation and social use of their forests.  Early 2015 with Forest Service NI approval, Council commissioned a study to examine recreational opportunities within Davagh Forest and in particular to consider the possibility of improving access and developing the existing trail network and the creation of a dark sky park.  This study was undertaken by Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland and Cogent consultants.  The study identified that significant numbers of people were already using Davagh Forest and in particular using the existing network of trails and forest roads. Key users were identified as mountain bikers, walkers, runners, event organisers as well as other recreational users.  Architects Teague and Sally where appointed in April 2016 as the design team for the project.  This concept plan was presented to Council and Forest Service NI for their consideration and also will be used as the basis for Council to submit a grant application to the tourism measure of the Rural Development Programme. (Concept Drawing of the Observatory).

PROJECT DETAIL Budget Capital Costs (EST) Observatory Building Including Pods Professional Fees £969,000

Total Expenditure £969,000

Funding Breakdown Rural Development Programme £500,000 Council £469,000

Marketing/Sponsorship Proposal Mid Ulster District Council and Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland (ORNI) has agreed that in or‐ der to maximise the promotion of the Trails at Davagh Forest they will:

Incorporate Davagh’s Mountain Bike Trails within ORNI’s brand ‘Mountain Bike Northern Ireland’ and associated marketing platforms. Increase awareness levels and in turn visitor numbers to Davagh Trails by; Establishing a new ‘Mountain Bike Northern Ireland’ brand which will act as an umbrella marketing platform to pro‐ mote mountain bikes (MTB) trail centres developed throughout Northern Ireland including: Davagh Forest Rostrevor Forest Park Castlewellan Forest Park BlessingBourne It is believed rather than each trail manager establishing an individual brand and separate marketing platforms that it is more beneﬁcial to act as a consortium under this one brand and all Councils in‐ cluding Newry and Mourne and Down District Council have agreed.

The key advantages are: Economies of scale in production costs The ability to cross‐sell between trail centres A greater potential to attract a sponsor Improved recognition outside Northern Ireland with the potential to work with cross border trail centres and Tourism Ireland.

PROJECT DETAIL Marketing MountainBikeNI.com Marketing Campaigns 2016 –17

Marketing Vision To raise the awareness of Northern Ireland as a must‐visit short break mountain biking destination.

In order to build upon momentum gained from 15—16 which saw over 100km of purpose‐built mountain bike trails developed across Northern Ireland. MountainBikeNI.com marketing campaigns will showcase Northern Ireland as a must‐visit short break MTB destination through targeted adver‐ tising, cross‐promotions, positive PR, engaging social networking and inspiring online/oﬄine con‐ tent.

Objectives Increase / reinforce brand awareness to MTB Enthusiasts in ROI and GB Increase GB / ROI data collection Showcase Northern Ireland as a Short Break MTB Destination Drive overnight stays and therefore increased spend

It is proposed that targeted campaigns with be delivered at key trigger points throughout the year. Spring/Summer Campaign

Council Commitment required £11,666

Research indicates that there are an average 43,000 unique searches per month for the term 'mountain biking holiday' from February to May. Therefore it is essential that Northern Ireland as a mountain biking destination has a strong presence during this key period.

A multi‐faceted marketing campaign targeting mountain bike enthusiasts living in Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, this spring/summer campaign should raise awareness of each of our new Na‐ tional Trail Centres, capture relevant contact information for our key target market and portray Northern Ireland as a must visit short break mountain biking destination.

PROJECT DETAIL GI Trail for Northern Ireland

The GI Trail for Northern Ireland spreads across Northern Ireland highlighting all the sites relating to the US presence in Northern Ireland during the Second World War. Telling the story of the people who lived through this unique era. The GI Trail is split into three stages, with each stage covering certain counties in Northern Ireland: Armagh and Down – The Patton Trail Antrim and Londonderry – The Hartle Trail Fermanagh and Tyrone – The Eisenhower Trail

The trails are produced on printed leaﬂets, supported by an interactive website www.gitrailsni.com

Correspondence has been received from Kilkeel Development Association (KDA) regarding the GI Trails for which the association has received funding from Heritage Lottery to deliver the project. To date the following sites from Co. Tyrone in the Mid Ulster District have been identiﬁed to be included in the new guide:

 Killymoon Castle ‐ memorial stone to US troops here.  Blessingbourne Estate  Castlecaulfield ‐ CastleCaulfield House home to US officers and a US Navy Lieutennant Commander is remembered on the memorial in Church of Ireland.  Lissan House  Desertcreat Farm – elements of 82nd Airborne made this their home  Caledon and Caledon Mill  Knock na moe Castle, Omagh ‐ US troops billeted here and Eisenhower visited on several occasions  Beltrim Castle & Estate  Stuart Hall, Stewartstown – used by evacuee families during Blitz  Dungannon Park ‐ POW Camp  Benburb Priory  Cluntoe Airfield (USAAF)

Research is still underway to ensure no sites of signiﬁcance are excluded.

Budget KDA has requested that the Council give consideration to sponsoring copies of the trail leaﬂets and has advised that this has been the practice of the Councils in the other two trails. Depending on the number of trail maps printed, the cost estimated is in the region of £1180 (for 3000 copies) to £1447.50 (for 7500 copies). This contribution includes the provision of the Council’s logo on the map and leaﬂet.

PROJECT DETAIL

Lower Bann ‐ Recreational, Tourism & Commercial Production Identiﬁcation Study

A study was commissioned by a partnership of stakeholders – Waterways Ireland, Tourism NI, Sport NI, The Honourable Irish Society, and the following four local authorities which bound the river ‐ Antrim and Newtownabbey, Causeway Coast & Glens, Mid & East Antrim, and Mid Ulster District Council. Consultants appointed to produce the study were BTS and Outdoor Recreation NI. The ﬁnal report provides detailed analysis of the existing infrastructure and activities as well as identifying the potential opportunities for recreation, tourism and commercial development along the river corridor. The study provides an integrated and strategic reference framework to inform cohesive implementation of appropriate sustainable development opportunities.

Background

The Lower Bann river corridor is rich in wildlife and its history, built and natural heritage, and has a wide range of landscape and environmental designations. Three main challenges have been identified, which need to be addressed to allow the development of opportunities for recreation, sport and tourism, as well as to offer improved facilities for local communities:  The Lower Bann is a “hidden” asset, not readily identifiable as a destination.  Access to the water allows full length navigation but the river banks only allow fragmented river bank routes for walkers and cyclists.  The river drains Lough Neagh. Rivers Agency is the statutory agency obligated to manage water levels on the Lough and has to release excess into the Lower Bann which consequent impacts on water levels and flows. This ultimately impacts water and river bank based recreation.

Context

The steering group sough to create and embrace a uniﬁed strategic vision for the development of the Lower Bann corridor, to encourage appropriate and sustainable tourism, recreation and commercial development. All of which meets the needs of each stakeholders Corporate Plan or Tourism Development Strategy.

Outcomes

Following a series of stakeholder consultations along with desktop research, the steering group have agreed seven key outcomes that will be derived from the development of the Lower Bann Corridor.

Key hubs and significant sites were identified that provide the structure of the framework for connected and clustered activity and product development. Each will have a significant impact in helping to unlock the full value of the Lower Bann corridor as a leisure and tourism resource.

Within the Mid Ulster District, Toome has been identified as a Hub for development. Significant sites include Lough Beg, Church Island, and Newferry. Glenoe fishing pegs have also been highlighted for potential development.

Action Plan

An Action Plan was created, with a timescale for delivery, structured around four headings: 1. Strategic Management 2. Plans and Reports 3. Development of Infrastructure 4. Marketing, Events, Education

Next Steps

 Council approval to support the implementation of the study  Steering group to act as the implementation team and the focus for stakeholder engagement.  Establish baseline data and agree KPIs for measuring success.  Develop and agreed Business Plan for years 1‐3, based on priorities actions, subject to agreeing resources, obtaining statutory approvals and securing funding.  Monitor progress and review KPIs.

PROJECT DETAIL US Links Project

It is believed that Mid Ulster contains some of the richest archaeological, historical and heritage sites and facilities within Northern Ireland. Our rich and diverse cultural and historical inheritance provides an opportunity for further development to increase visitors to the area, under a common interest. Within the context of the newly adopted Tourism Strategy, this project sits within the Archaeology, History and Heritage theme.

Background

Over the centuries, many hundreds of thousands left the shores of Ireland. Many travelling to the United States in search of new opportunities. Their influence has been huge and their legacy includes pioneers, presidents, military commanders, religious leaders and giants of commerce. A number of which came from the Mid Ulster District. There already exists two well‐known links with the Mid Ulster District – Charles Thomson in Upper‐ lands, and U.S. Grant Homestead located outside Dungannon. This project involved investigating and establishing other specific links with the US Market. The project commenced early 2016, and continues to be an ongoing project with new links continual‐ ly being identified. With this in mind an on‐line story board was created to highlight the location of the each link across the Mid Ulster District. The story board allows it to be easily updated and shared. It starts in the north of the district taking the visitor on a journey through time exploring our historical connections. The link to the story board is http://arcg.is/2dG107G.

To date the following links have been identified: 1. Charles Thomson – Secretary to the Continental Congress, and principal designer of the US Great Seal. 2. Rev. John Glendy – Chaplain to the House of Representatives in Congress, and Chaplain to the Senate. 3. Eve Bunting – Award Winning Author 4. Colonel Edward Riley Bradly – Mill labourer, gold miner, cowboy, Indian scout, Businessman and Philanthropist. 5. Toome Airfield – USAAF’s 8th Airforce Station 36. 6. Captain Charles McNally – Awarded the Congressional Medal of Honour 7. Bishop Henry Conwell – A motivator of the American Civil War and the 69th Pa. Infantry. 8. Killymoon Castle – US Military Base during WWII 9. Cluntoe Airdome, Ardboe – USAAF 8th Airforce – AAF238 Combat Crew Replacement Centre B 10. James Clark McReynolds – American Lawyer, Judge and US Attorney General 11. General James Shields – An Irish‐American Democratic politician and Unites States Army Officer, who served as a US Senator for three different states. 12. James Irwin – Eighth Man on the moon. 13. Thomas Alexander Mellon – Judge and founder of the Mellon Financial Company 14. Henry W. Oliver – Iron Pioneer and founder of the Oliver Iron and Steel Company 15. John Kinley Tener – American Politician and Major League Baseball Player and Executive. 16. Rev. Bernard Keenan – The first priest ordained in the diocese of Philadelphia. 17. Cyrus McCormick – American Industrialist and Inventor 18. Ulysses S. Grant – 18th President of the United States of America 19. Bishop John Joseph Hughes – The first catholic Archbishop of New York. 20.Robert Garland – creator of Daylight Savings 21. Mary Irwin Pattinson – the only female Mayor of Pittsburgh. PROJECT DETAIL Tour Guide Training

Tour Guide Training March 2016

In March 2016 , consultants Travel and Tourism Associates were appointed to deliver the accredited Open College Network (ONC) Level 2 Award in Tour Guiding Skills. The course was bespoke to Mid‐Ulster District’s tourism product oﬀering with a speciﬁc emphasis on Seamus Heaney, which included training for both walking tours and coach tours. The programme was funding by Tourism NI under the Seamus Heaney Business Engagement Programme. A group of ten participants, all of whom where tourism employees of Mid Ulster District Council attended the course.

The course involved seven full days of training (approx. 9.30 – 4.30) over three months, which included research work practical familiarisation trips, as well as presentation skills required to lead a tour group. It also included three World Host Qualiﬁcations: The Principals of Customer Service; Service Across Cultures; and the Ambassador Workshop. Some preparation work was also be required outside of this time and candidates were required to deliver their tour script on an actual tour for their ﬁnal assessment.

All ten members of staﬀ successfully completed the tour guide training and were presented with their OCN Level 2 Certiﬁcates at the Bellaghy World Host Presentations at Seamus Heaney HomePlace in October 2016.

Tour Guide Training March 2017

Due to the success of the ﬁrst tour guide training programme, additional funding was secured from Tourism NI to run a second OCN Level 2 Award in Tour Guiding Skills for the tourism trade within the Mid Ulster District Council. The aim to develop and enhance the current tourism provision which complements the Seamus Heaney product oﬀering. The training is being delivered by Travel and Tourism Associates, which involves a bespoke training day for existing Northern Ireland tour guides showcasing the tourism products across Mid Ulster District in future guided tour itineraries. The course is due to be completed by the end of May 2017.

Networking Tour Guide Event

Funded by Tourism NI, a specific networking event has been scheduled for Tuesday 30th May in the Helicon at Seamus Heaney HomePlace. It will consist of approximately 40 accredited tour guides from across NI and ROI attending an event showing casing Seamus Heaney and other attractions within Mid Ulster to encourage guides to incorporate our tourist attractions into both new and existing tours. The afternoon will take the form of a fam trip of Heaney Country incorporating the sites identified in the HLF trails project. This tour will be delivered by the newly qualified tour guides under the guidance and supervision of the tutors from Travel and Tourism Associates.

Trainee Tour Guides at US Grant Homestead, Dungannon

Trainee Tour Guides providing pre opening tours at the Seamus Heaney HomePlace for the Bellaghy Community. opening.

Trainee Tour Guides at Blessingbourne Estate, Fivemiletown. PROJECT DETAIL

Food Ambassador Programme March 2017

As part of Tourism Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink initiative, Mid Ulster District Council partnered with Tourism Northern Ireland to deliver the WorldHost Food Ambassador Programme. This took place at Tullylagan Country House Hotel, Cookstown on Thursday 30th March 2017 from 9.00am to 2.00pm. In attendance where 28 participants from 12 Mid Ulster businesses all operating within the hospitality and food industry.

WorldHost Ambassador is a recognised and accredited training programme tailored speciﬁcally for Northern Ireland’s acclaimed food and drink industry. This training programme presented an opportunity for front‐line staﬀ to develop the skills and knowledge that will help power sales in local businesses, by improving customer services.

The half‐day session, developed by Tourism NI, People 1st and Food NI/Taste of Ulster:

 Used experiential learning and included a wide range of local food and drink tasting.  Brought businesses up to speed on all that is happening in our growing food and drink industry.  Equipped participants with the conﬁdence and knowledge needed to tell the stores of local produce.

Once a business has 50% or more of their staﬀ who have completed any WorldHost programme they can apply for their WorldHost Recognised Business Award.

This initiative supports the development of Mid Ulster as a World Host destinations, as identiﬁed in the actions in section 4.2 of the Mid Ulster District Council Tourism Strategy.

PROJECT DETAIL

Scenic Driving Route for the Sperrins

The Sperrins region is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) which is located in the west of Northern Ireland.The wider Sperrins area stretches from the Donegal border in the west, to Lough Neagh in the east and to the Atlantic shores in the north. The natural asset of the mountain range mixed with the unspoilt landscape of winding rivers, sun swept valleys and scenic lakes all translate into a region recognised as one of the most idyllic geographical areas of rural Ireland

Four scenic driving routes have been created in the Sperrins area; Central, South, East and North Sperrins Scenic Routes. Each route connects accommodation, visitor services, tourist attractions and scenic viewpoints, oﬀering the perfect way to explore this unique region.Two of these routes – the North and the East Sperrins – can be enjoyed within the Mid Ulster District. Work has now commenced to revise the routes and produce both digital and printed versions of the maps. This project is being completed in partnership Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and Derry and Strabane Council.

Budget £5000

Lough Neagh Partnership

Lough Neagh Partnership, on behalf of Mid Ulster District Council and the 5 Councils surrounding the Lough, are the main co‐ordinating and marketing body to promote tourism, recreational, environmental and heritage activities on Lough Neagh and the Lough Neagh shoreline to increase the proﬁle of the Lough as a tourism destination.

Lough Neagh Partnership secured a Heritage Lottery funded Landscape Partnership project of over £3.5 million to deliver 27 capital and revenue projects, with 3 being delivered in Mid Ulster.

Budget: LNP Core funding £25,000 LNP HLF Project Year 1 £35,400 (£99,059 over 5 years)

Objectives

Destination Marketing Plan Following a review of the DMP with Tourism NI it was agreed that it was necessary to establish Themed Cluster Groups to facilitate growth in private sector tourism providers through mentoring and encourage visitors to the area. Action Plans for each have been developed.

 Lough Neagh Food  Lough Neagh Heritage  Outdoor Activities (Shoreline) incl. ecotourism  Outdoor (Lough & River based)  Eco tourism

A Digital Marketing Skills programme was delivered to 11 Mid Ulster businesses. This provided tourism/hospitality/recreational providers tourism and cultural skills to

Increasing online presence and becoming more competitive. Finding and engaging with new customers Increasing their customer base Widening their geographical reach Accessing new markets Improving sales and proﬁts

Marketing Lough Neagh

LNP won ‘Best Marketing Achievement’ award at the Belfast Telegraph NI Year of Food & Drink for their ‘Eel‐eat’ campaign to encourage restaurants to feature Lough Neagh Eel on their menu.

The marketing programme co‐ordinated by LNP also includes the provision of press releases, features and advertorials to Tourism NI, local and regional media, quarterly E‐newsletters to stakeholders and consumers, promotion of events and information automatically updated from Tourism NI website and Schools Christmas Colouring Competition.

LNP also have a very strong digital presence through social media sites Facebook and Twitter and their new website/app www.discoverloughneagh.com, regularly updated and content automatically uploaded from Tourism NI. A recent Blogging Competition increased visitor numbers to the LN site and linked relevant blogs to Mid Ulster businesses.

Lough Neagh Cycle Trail

LNP have been liaising with Sustrans on an audit of NCN routes, including signage and volunteer requirements. They have asked LNP to support them in ensuring the route is better maintained and improved. LNP will discuss collating visitor stats for LN Cycle Trail.

Lough Neagh Community Trust

Due to a change of Minister, funding to DTNI has not been secured to carry out agreed actions of Lough Neagh Community Trust. LNP Marketing oﬃcer has developed a website www.loughneaghdevelopmenttrust.org in order for the Trust to impart with communities, stakeholders and register support

Lough Neagh Cooperation Project

A Co‐operation project was submitted to 5 LAGs including Mid Ulster to secure funding to develop recreational facilities and opportunities on Lough Neagh and associated Waterways. SOAR taking the lead and Cross Boarder partners will be invited also to consider proposal

Lough Neagh Food Programme

The aim of the Food Programme is to develop a strategy for Lough Neagh Food with particular emphasis on LN fish and a view to securing EU or RDP funding for a food programme. Under the Destination Management Plan, a Food Cluster and action plan has been developed with a tourism product defined and development needs identified. However, due to Brexit affecting EU funding and a proposal cannot be developed until RDP programme criteria is published when it opens. Landscape Partnership Project

As part of the overall Heritage Lottery funded Landscape Partnership project of over £3.5 million, Mid Ulster District Council agreed to contribute conditional match funding of £99,059 to the Lough Neagh Landscape Partnership Programme, with £35,400 having been awarded in Year 1 speciﬁcally for the delivery of: a. Ardboe Walk and Development of Car Park b. Archaeology Project Goals 1, 2 and 3 c. Lough Heritage Signage

Ardboe Walk & Development of Car Park

Phase 1 of the development of a new parking facility at Ardboe Graveyard and a 3km walkway from Ardboe High Cross to Battery Harbour has now completed with Phase 2 implementation to commence April 17.

Archaeology Project Goals 1, 2 and 3

The Landscape Partnership Projects aims to conserve the Lough’s cultural, built and natural heritage through a series of programmes. An archaeological programme of activities have taken place as follows:

 Archaeology investigations completed at Ardboe, Brocagh and Church Island  Conservation and site audits at Church Island and Toome Airﬁeld  Exhibitions showing history and culture of past life around the lough  Events to include communities from Ardboe to Toome  12 Schools engagement sessions delivered with 3 themes; Monks & Vikings, The Tudor Years, Victorian Lough  Lough Neagh Connections conference  Archaeology workshop on traditional boat building  Future workshops will include a diverse range from Mesolithic through to basket weaving and pottery.

Lough Heritage Signage

An audit of signage requirements has been completed and a template for interpretative signage developed. A common brand for use in all interpretative and directional signage associated with the heritage of Lough Neagh shoreline has also been implemented PROJECT DETAIL Heart of Ancient Ulster Landscape Partnership Scheme

The significance of the history and built heritage of Mid Ulster is recognised in the Heritage Lottery Fund approved project under “The Heart of Ancient Ulster” which is a joint project between Mid Ulster and Fermanagh and Omagh District Councils. This project aims to address the preparation of a Landscape Conservation Management Plan stretching from the Lower Sperrins to the Carrickmore Plateau to the Pomeroy Hills, acknowledging the density and the importance of the archaeological attributes of the area. A Letter of Offer was issued by HLF totalling £115,000, including Council’s contribution of £11,025, for the Development Phase, with a Stage Two application to be submitted before 14 November 2018. If the application is successful the Delivery Phase has the potential to draw down a total of £2,932,351 over the five year life span of the project. A full‐time Project Development Officer and part‐time Administrator will be appointed in 2017.

Carleton Trail The Carleton Trail is a waymarked walk that measures approximately 29.8 miles (48km) through lush green Tyrone landscape, rich in local history, architecture, Ancient monuments, quiet streams and spectacular views of the beautiful Clogher Valley. A £20K project will be completed on the Trail by September 2017 which includes an audit of the Carleton Trail Scenic Driving/Cycling/Walking Route. New and replacement signage including interpretation panels will also be provided and the existing brochure will be updated in print and digital format. The upgrade of the Trail will complement the Tourism Strategy under the Hidden Heritage theme and encourage visitors to the area to stay longer and spend more particularly in the Clogher Valley. PROJECT DETAIL

USG

Through DFC (The Department of Communities) funding of £30K has been secured to develop a concept plan, research and develop all content (including narrative and imagery), design, manufacture and install the interpretive signage at the Grant Homestead. Consultants have been appointed and it is envisaged work will be completed by June 2017. It is hoped that Phase 2 of the Project will further look at developing access points to the cottage and signage on site.

Seamus Heaney Tourism Cluster

Tourism NI in 2016 developed a mentoring programme to help develop clusters of tourism industry partners to help support collaboration and delivering “Seamless Visitor’s Experiences” One of these clusters has been themed around Seamus Heaney and this group held their ﬁrst meeting on 31st August 2016. The Tourist board appointed Mark Alexander MA consulting to work with and facilitate the group. The group have met on a monthly basis and have developed packages and itineraries and some have for the ﬁrst time attended Meet the Buyer this year. They have also completed a workshop in Northern regional College on uploading packages to the Tourism Ireland website (see above) and achieved their target of having 10 viable packages live on the website. They have also welcomed Colm Murphy from Matthews Coached who gave a half day workshop on working with Tour Operators.

Tourism NI also funded a business development programme (£30,000) in 2016/2017 as part of the work of this cluster. This funded Tour Guide training and business engagement in the form of two learning journeys for tourism businesses that signed up to the programme.

Learning Journeys – CS Lewis & Dylan Thomas The ﬁrst of these a day visit for all operators that participated in initial cluster meetings was held on 1st March, 2016 to Belfast and the C S Lewis Experience, it also included a meeting with Julie Andrews, Director of Linenhall Library, Belfast to explore some collaborative opportunities and include this in a Seamus Heaney itinerary.

In addition to the 1 day local learning journey to CS Lewis sites in Belfast a 2 day visit to the Dylan Thomas Centre and Country in South Wales was held from 21‐23 March, this included again cluster members, Mid Ulster council staﬀ and BTS representatives. The programme for the 2 days included a Walk in Dylan’s footsteps with a visit to Laugharne, The Boathouse, now an award winning cafe, doing his Birthday Walk along the shoreline and a visit to Browns Hotel, where he spent many happy lost afternoons. Now the hotel has been restored and reborn as a ﬁve‐star boutique hotel featuring on the Dylan Thomas connections. The group also visited St Martin Church where Dylan and his wife Caitlin are buried. On day 2 the group travelled to the Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. It was opened in 1995 by American ex‐President Jimmy Carter, and has a permanent exhibition on the life and work of Dylan Thomas, a bookshop and a cafe.

Tour Guides Staﬀ completed the Level 2 Tour Guiding programme as part of this programme also and in doing so developed a series of Itineraries including: Seamus Heaney HomePlace Ancient Heart of Ulster Grand Houses of Mid Ulster Family Fun days (ad hoc or 2 day) and Glorious Gardens (ad hoc or 2 day)

Tour Operators Database A Tour Operators Database, has been developed with contacts made throughout the year and staﬀ are continuing to populate.

Signage Tourism staﬀ delivered on 19 Brown Tourist Signs for HomePlace and these were installed prior to the opening weekend.

Seamus Heaney HomePlace Staff The Tourism Manager is working with front of house staff in Seamus Heaney HomePlace advising them on minimum standards for Tourism NI VIC operation and mystery shopper experience. Staff are working as part of the dual function to collate visitor stats including numbers, types of enquiry, nationality, length of stay etc.

Critical Friends – Tourism NI Tourism and Tourism NI staﬀ as critical friends visited HomePlace on 22 September to get a preview of the centre and give management a review of the centre prior to opening. This report has been submitted to management and delivery on this is ongoing.

Trade and Consumer Promotions All literature including opening weekend programme and ﬂier were distributed across Ireland to all VICs in Northern Ireland, main tourist attractions in NI , ROI VICs and top visitor attractions in Ireland including key literary attractions for example Yeats Centre, Sligo; Long Library/Book of Kells, Trinity College; Chester Beatty Library. Tourism staﬀ continue to support all Council functions in literature distribution.

UK inbound Discover NI workshop, Galgorm attended on 7th September with 20 appointments with inbound Tour Operators.

Coach & Group operators’ workshop, La Mon, attended on 15 September 2016. 25 coach operators attended this workshop from GB & ROI. Again these contacts were added to live Tour Operator database.

ROI Tour Operators Fam Trip

This was held on 2nd November 2016 with the following businesses attending: Irish Welcome Tours CIE Tours Little Irish Tour Company Grand Tours Brack Tours Bespoke Northern Ireland Association of Incoming Tour Operators Ireland Tourism NI PR Team x 3 The group spent a full day in the area, visiting Laurel Villa, Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Ballyscullion Park House and The Old Thatch Inn. Tour Operators Booklet and suggested itineraries were prepared in advance of the visit and all costs covered by Tourism NI (ROI)

VIC Fam Trip

VIC fam trip held on 17th November, with over 50 people attending from across Northern Ireland. The group visited The Burnavon, Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Ballyscullion Park House, Laurel Villa and ﬁnished with traditional Irish music, and poetry plus great food in The Old Thatch Inn.

World Travel Market Excel, London 7th ‐9th November, Mid Ulster Council took and outside desk and carried with Seamus Heaney branding plus all regional literature. Key operators were contacted in advance and appointments set up.

Holiday World Shows Belfast (20‐22 January) & Dublin (27‐29 January)

Seamus Heaney HomePlace and Mid Ulster Council tourism attractions were widely promoted at these shows. These are the largest consumer holiday shows held in Ireland and staﬀ distributed literature and programmes. The stand graphics feature a striking image from the exhibition, branded bags and other merchandise were also distributed, plus a competition ran for the duration of the promotion. The show proved very successful as reported plus over 1000 names were added to HomePlace database.

Celtic Connections (18 January, Glasgow) Staff promoted HomePlace at Celtic Connections, Glasgow targeting Scottish incoming Tour Operators to Northern Ireland. This was a one day trade / Meet the Buyer event hosted by Tourism Ireland and was be funded through Tourism Ireland NIICP (75%) Tour Guides programme This programme funded by Tourism NI (£10,000) has commenced on Monday 6th March in Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy. The programme is targeted at future foreign language guides and 10 people who speak a range of languages have been recruited. A final day will target all existing tour guides in NI and give them an immersive Seamus Heaney day and a visit to HomePlace. This is planned to introduce them to HomePlace with a view to encouraging return visits with groups and reciprocal cross marketing benefits.

100 Great Days Out Tourism Business Engagement Oﬃcer and Laura McGlone from HomePlace attended 100 Great Days Out Fair in the Slieve Donard on Wednesday 15th February. Group day out organisers from Northern Ireland and ROI attended the event with 150 from the ROI market and 300 from Northern Ireland. The fair was extremely busy with 130 competition entries received and a new database of active retirement groups being compiled from these entries. This have been made available to Seamus Heaney HomePlace staﬀ.

Meet the Buyer This tour operator networking event was held on Monday 27 March in the Waterfront, Belfast, 2 tourism staﬀ members attended: Mary McGee & Charmain Bell. We had over 20 appointments with operators and also secured one of the fam trips from Meet the Buyer – People, Place & Politics for the region, it included a lunch stop at the Old Thatch Inn and a Visit to Seamus Heaney HomePlace. 10 incoming Tour Operators featured on this trip with The Old Thatch Inn having secured bookings from EF Tours USA (group fortnightly series) and Silverdales Ireland

Co Operative Marketing Visit Belfast and Visit Derry are now working with the tourism section on cooperative marketing to include sharing key appointments at World Travel Market and associated shows with Visit Derry, joint advertising, social media marketing and joint fam trips.

Seamus Heaney HomePlace has featured as part of the Say Hello to More Cooperative marketing in association with Tourism NI and the NI Hotels federation and allows for funding at 75% promoting into the ROI market in conjunction with Tourism NI Autumn campaign.

2. key events

PROJECT DETAIL NI Year of Food and Drink 2016

Northern Ireland's Year of Food and Drink 2016 was a celebration of everything delicious about Northern Ireland.

Opportunities were available for local producers/growers and traders to trade at corporate events. This provided a platform for visitors to taste for themselves authentic NI food and Drink.

Celebration of Hugh O’ Neill’s Wedding

Guests at the historic Hill of the O’Neill and Ranfurly House Arts and Visitor Centre were treated to a wedding banquet with a diﬀerent in June, as a unique recreation wedding banquet celebrating the marriage between Hugh O’Neill and Mabel Bagenal took place.

Cookstown Comedy Festival Cookstown Comedy Festival was held on the 16—18 June 2016 with shows and performances staged in the Burnavon which proved to be very successful. Northern Ireland’s ﬁnest comic, Jake O’Kane, was back on stage! Jake takes no prisoners as he deals with the good, the bad and the ugly of life in NI. This event has developed annually and has been established into a must attend event in the calendar.

Pop in the Park

Dungannon’s Day of Music in August saw the return of the Battle of the Buskers competition followed by the Pop in the Park free open air concert bringing crowds to the town!

The day kicked oﬀ with the Battle of the Buskers competition which saw a real mixture of styles and cultures of music being performed.

There was a great buzz around the town centre with children enjoying face painting, balloon modelling and caricaturing. Shoppers were also treated to performances from Cool FM Favourite Callum Stewart and Country superstar Lisa McHugh!

Railway Park was then the place to be for the Pop in the Park concert compered by Michael Glackin and headlined by renowned Irish Folk giants Bagatelle. The fantastic evening of music also included performances from Abba‐Esque, Callum Stewart, Chelsea Chambers and not forgetting busking champion Darryl Quinn.

Lumerina Festival

Ballyronan Marina opened its dock to the people of Mid Ulster and welcomed hundreds to the Lumerina Festival, which took place in August over three days .

The Festival opened on Friday evening with live music, Food Stalls as part of the Year of Food and Drink celebrations, Children’s Entertainment and a fantastic Fireworks Display.

The On‐shore programme of activities continued throughout the weekend, catering for all ages. Activities include: A teddy Bear Picnic, face painting, children’s entertainers and the Fun Fair was on site for the weekend. To close the Festival, we had a fantastic performance by Quantum Theatre, an outdoor touring Theatre company. Picnic in the Park

Thousands pack up their picnics and ﬂocked to Dungannon Park in August, where they enjoyed an afternoon of free fun and entertainment at the annual Picnic in the Park event.

Tullylagan provided a BBQ, as part of the Year of Food and Drink celebrations, there was live music, interactive children’s activities, family shows, drumming workshops, trampolines, climbing wall and a 25ft tall Inﬁnity Tower. This event was delivered by Park’s and Events.

Cookstown Continental Market One of Cookstown Town Centre civic events was the delivery of the Continental Market in September 2016.

This event was delivered in partnership with Marketplace Europe Ltd, attracting thousands of visitors who attended the Continental Market over the three day period .

More than 40 traders from as far aﬁeld as Morocco, India, Belgium, France, Russia, Holland, Spain and China, were joined by Northern Irish traders as part of NI Year of Food. On oﬀer was freshly made Paella to delicious Bratwurst Sausages, sauces and spices to patisserie’s, sup‐ ported by three day period of family street entertainment and music.

Economic Development was the lead team at this event, working in partnership with various Council Departments to deliver a successful event.

Blooming Good Fun

Thousands of visitors stepped into Maghera Walled Garden for some Blooming Good Fun on 10 September 2016.

The garden was transformed for the day with Alice in Wonderland and her friends greeting over 5,600 guests for an afternoon ﬁlled with shows and activities.

Mr Bloom from CBeebies entertained the crowds with tales about his vegetables and songs from his popular television show. A day of entertainment, featuring A Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Jam Tart Decorating, Queen of Heart’s Crown Making and life‐size games were among the activities that made for a magical event enjoyed by all. Economic Development was the lead team at this event, working in partnership with various Council Departments to deliver a successful event.

Halloween in Mid Ulster Six Halloween events took place within 5 towns in 2016. These included: The Halloween Hooley at Meadowbank; Fireworks display, Maghera; Funfair and Halloween Fireworks, Gortinis Park; Halloween on The Hill of O’Neill, Dungannon and Halloween at Mid Ulster Sports Arena, with Fireworks. Each of these events diﬀered in their oﬀering, and all the events where very well supported. Various departments were involved in the delivery of these successful events. The largest event, was the Halloween Event which took place Mid Ulster Sports Arena. This site can accommodate large volumes of people and has ample car parking available..

Cookstown Christmas Lights Switch On

The magical Christmas in Mid Ulster got underway with the Switch On of Cookstown’s Christmas lights on Thursday 24th November.

Hundreds of people lined the streets, awaiting the arrival of Santa. There was street stalls, free face painting and balloon modelling in addition to a host of Christmas carols ,Cartoon characters and live music which kept the crowds amused as they waited for Santa .

Christmas Magical Kingdom Dungannon Ranfurly House, at the heart of the town centre, was gateway to a festive kingdom on 25 – 27 November, where it became home for Santa’s elves and a host of Christmas workshops, while the viewing tower on the Hill of the O’Neill was transformed into Santa’s grotto.

The dome on the hill became a space dedicated to children – ‘Little World’ – and was ﬁlled with traditional fun fair rides and activities, street performers, face painters and more than 30 stalls ﬁlled with crafts, food and Christmas gift ideas formed the Christmas fair.

Throughout the weekend, children were spoilt for choice with Christmas arts and crafts activities in Ranfurly House, as well as story‐telling, Christmas sing‐alongs and ﬁlm screenings of Frozen and the Polar Express. The Town Centre was home to a three day Food and Craft Market , which attracted over 30 traders for the weekend.

Magherafelt Christmas Market

Approximately 23,000 people attended this year’s Magherafelt Christmas Market over the weekend (2‐4 December).

A fantastic array of 25 artisan food and craft stalls selling local high quality products, were the centrepiece of the 2016 market, the ﬁrst event to be held in the newly refurbished town centre!

Those who attended enjoyed browsing and sampling the locally produced food and drink, and took time to unwind in the lounge, where they could choose a craft beer, hot mulled wine or even just sit and relax. There were lots of hints and tips for Christmas feasts on oﬀer and local bands and school children performed in the marquee over the weekend.

Maghera Christmas Lights

Maghera Christmas Lights was the ﬁnal switch On which took place. Hundreds event the event which took place on 10 December 2016. The afternoon was ﬁlled with free children arts and crafts workshops, live music, face painting and a treasure hunt. The evening activities concluded with a Lantern Trial around the Walled Garden, which was lead by Christmas Characters. The Lantern Trial was very well attended and was followed by hot chocolate in the Lurach Centre.

Teddy Bears Picnic 2016

Approximately 375 nursery and primary school children attended the annual Teddy Bears Picnic at USG Ancestral Homestead from 13th‐17th June 2016. The event was extremely successful and feedback from both teachers and children was very positive with all hoping to attend the event in 2017. Entertainment was provided by Tom Sweeney Music and Jump, Jiggle & Jive. The event is scheduled to take place from 5th‐ 9th June 2017.

PROJECT DETAIL 2016 / 17 OUTPUTS 2017/ 18 OBJECTIVES

Hidden Heritage Programme Hidden Heritage Programme 2016 In 2017/18 we will expand the Discover Mid Ulster programme to discover other hidden gems in the area. The Hidden Heritage programme Events where delivered in has been running for 8 years in association with Business and The following provisional dates the Cookstown area, in 2016/17 Communities, Craic Theatre which have been scheduled for 2017: the programme expanded to tell included living history, the history and uncover the storytelling and entertainment heritage of some of our sites in on site. Admission to all events £8, Mid Ulster. The story were re‐ transport will be provided from told using characters from a by‐ Maximum Capacity per session was the Burnavon gone age and tour guides in a 30 persons but this ﬁgure was new series of tours. exceed to cope with demand.  Beaghmore Stone Circles 21st June Five coach tours, had been  US Grants and Carleton organised by the Tourism Trail 1st July department, oﬀer the opportunity  Upperlands Linen Tour for locals and visitors alike to 12th August experience some of the region’s  Seamus Heaney most historic landmarks, stretching HomePlace and back to the times of the ancient HomeGround Tour 10th kings of Ulster to life in an early September 19th century residence.

The tours took place on: Saturday 18th June, Clans Return Walk Tuesday 21th June, Summer Budget: Solstice @ Beaghmore Stone Hidden Hertiage £7,000 Circles Saturday 30th July, Heritage of Maghera Saturday 6th August, Clogher Valley and Blessingbourne Estate Saturday 20th August, Lissan House

Over 235 people attended these events.

The tours cost £10 per person. Booking where made through Cookstown Visitor Information Centre

PROJECT DETAIL 2016 / 17 OUTPUTS 2017 / 18 OBJECTIVES

Santa’s Grotto Santa’s Grotto To build on the 2016 programme The Tourism Department once Designed and built with support by delivering a series of again hosts Santa in his Magical from Signworks, the Grotto was co‐ordinated Christmas events/ Grotto from 8th December until locate in the Burnavon and activities commencing late the 21st December. During their opened to the public from 8th November and December 2017. visit children will have the until 21st December 2016. Exact times and opening hours opportunity to write and post yet to be their special letter, meet and Admission to the grotto was £6 considered. chat with Santa and receive a per child. Visits included: special gift and a photograph of opportunity to write letter, meet their visit. Admission to the santa, receive gift & picture: grotto is £6.00 per child, adults go free. Budget: £3000 Income : £3730 Budget: £3000

3. Marketing Activity key events PROJECT DETAIL 2016/ 17 OUTPUTS

Marketing Activity Overview of Key Marketing Activity To promote the services of the  Print Mid Ulster District Council Visitor Guide Visitor Information Centre and the  Window Lightbox Graphics in Burnavon Window general tourism product of the  6 A1 Internal Lightbox posters District and Region through a  2 Large Mesh Banner at the Burn Rd Side of the Burnavon range of marketing media on the  Features Pages / Adverts in local press including: Mid‐Ulster basis of good value for money. Mail, Tyrone Courier, Mid– Ulster & Dungannon Observer  Adverts / banners in national press The Marketing activity is focused  Photography / Stock Images around key holiday times and the  Billboard Signage / Outdoor Signage for Halloween, Davagh Tourism Event Programme. Forest Trails, Hidden Hertiage, Comedy Festival, Christmas  4 pop‐up banners  Comedy Carpet  Flags  Trade stand  Large Promotional Nest

Other PR & Marketing Activity included;  Use of Social Media through the medium of Visit Cookstown facebook & Twitter pages and Davagh Trails Facebook pages  Promotion of Mid Ulster District Tourism video via the councils Youtube Channel  Use of a range of promotional websites including; www.midulsterdistrictcouncil.org, www.tourismireland.com, www.discoverloughneagh.co.uk, www.discoverireland.co.uk  Production of event ﬂyers for Halloween and Christmas Events, Hidden Heritage, comedy Festival  Attendance at trade and consumer shows  Meet the buyer

PROJECT DETAIL

Launch of Mid Ulster District's Tourism Strategy

The official launch of the Mid Ulster Tourism Strategy took place on Tuesday 28th March 2017 at Corick House Hotel and Spa, Clougher. Tourism businesses, from across Mid Ulster attended the launch event, where the council revealed the three key themes around which the future growth of the tourism industry is to be structured. During the launch event, the tourism department took the opportunity to showcase a range of tourism products and services from the region. Horses, mountain bikes, climbing wall, off‐road trucks, segways, where all on display outside as guests arrived. Inside guests were greeted with locally sourced canapés and hors d’œuvres, including Lough Neagh Eel, while being entertained with both Irish and Ulster Scots music and dance. There was also the opportunity to try the 3‐D virtual reality goggles of Beaghmore Stone Circles, before the guests were piped into the ball room. Presentations where delivered by Michael Browne on the tourism strategy, Terry Moseley explaining the dark skies project, as well as the newly commissioned four minute film promoting tourism in Mid Ulster. NI actor Ian McElhinney, star of stage and screen, attended and read an extract from Seamus Heaney’s Station Island with reference to William Carleton, the Clogher Valley poet. There was also the unexpected visit of Hugh O’Neill and U.S. Grant. After the locally sources lunch, guests where invited to enjoy a mini, dome inflated observatory revealed the secrets of the night skies to guests.

Tourism Strategy Launch 28 March 2017 Social Media Summary

Social media activity was undertaken by the Marketing & Communications team, beginning with pre‐ event prep and set‐up, moving into guest arrival and entertainment, followed by during‐event posts and closing with release of the new tourism video.

Posting took place across multiple Facebook and Twitter accounts, as detailed below.

Facebook Channel No of Reach Post Reactions, Video Posts Clicks Comments, Views Shares Dungannon 12 posts 19,382 1,474 214 5,871 Life (7 videos) Visit Cooks- 12 posts 20,217 893 117 3,178 town (5 videos) Visit Ma- 13 posts 8,559 512 63 1,206 gherafelt (6 videos) SHHP 2 posts 7,177 315 52 1,968 (1 video Live) Davagh For- 1 747 24 1 N/A est Trails Hill of the 3 2,572 103 3 3,234 O’Neill & (3 videos) Ranfurly House

Twitter Channel No of Tweets Impressions Engagements Mid Ulster 12 tweets 12,421 417 SHHP 2 tweets 5,352 125

The event was covered in the daily newspapers, Belfast Telegraph, Newsletter and Irish News. Chairman of the council was interviewed by Radio Ulster which was broadcasted on the morning of the launch.

4. Business Engagement

PROJECT DETAIL

Tourism Development Group

Mid Ulster District Council approved The Mid Ulster Tourism Strategy 2016‐2021 document in July 2016 and one of its recommendations was to establish a Tourism Development Group to oversee and advise on the delivery of the strategy document and to provide tourism representation from across sectors and the region. This group is deemed a working group taking Membership and Governance leadership and membership from and reporting to Mid Ulster District Council Development Committee.

Role The main roles of the Group are to: Help set the tourism priorities for the area. Comment on and contribute to the thinking behind the branding, marketing, annual marketing plans and product development opportunities across the area. Help generate operator contributions to such thinking and marketing delivery, including generating collateral for campaigns. Support partnership arrangements locally (within Mid Ulster and NI) and with Tourism Ireland and the travel trade. Act as ambassadors for the area in all matters relating to tourism.

Five clusters have also been established to link into the strategic strands identiﬁed in the Tourism Strategy document, they include: Seamus Heaney – Charmain Bell / Mary McGee Outdoor Activities – Mary McKeown Archaeology, History and Heritage ‐ Genevieve Bell/Michael Brown Events – Sharon Arbuthnot The Good Food Circle – Mary McGee/Allison O’Keefe

The clusters are aligned to the main tourism products and to the needs of individual communities, towns and villages. Support will be on offer from the local authority through the Tourism Development Group. Tourism Officers as above will work with individual clusters in delivering the identified actions to develop and integrate these clusters as laid out in the Tourism Strategy and will report to the Tourism Development Group.

Mid Ulster District Council, Development Committee Membership of the Tourism Development Group also includes 5 Council members drawn from the membership of the Councils Development Committee and be 2 Sinn Fein, 1 DUP, 1 UUP and 1 SDLP.

Members are as follows:

Kieran Bradley/ Connor Duncan ‐ Walsh’s Hotel, Maghera Colleen Lowry – Blessingbourne, Fivemiletown Hazel McDermott – Ashbrook House Bed & Breakfast, Carnteel Hugh McCloy ‐ Jungle NI (Vice Chairman) Norman Bell ‐ Lissan House, Cookstown Neil Somerville ‐ Horses Welcome, Clogher Anna Marie McFerran ‐ The Old Thatch Inn, Castledawson Lorna Robinson ‐ Cloughbane Farm, Pomeroy Terry McCrory – Heraldic Craft Allastar McGarry – North West Regional College, Magherafelt Grainne Mulholland – South West College, Dungannon Bobby Bell – J&K Coaches

Councillor Tony Quinn Councillor Walter Cuddy Councillor Niamh Doris Councillor Sean Clarke (Chairman) Councillor Frances Burton

Meetings

Meetings are being held on a rotating basis in industry businesses at their invitation from right across Mid Ulster region. The group can also invite other agencies, Council staﬀ or others to attend as necessary. To date they have had invited speakers from NISRA and Mid Ulster Community Planning section address them.

Tourism Development Group, pictured at ﬁrst meeting on 26 October 2016 in Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy.

Business to Business (B2B) events

26 April 2016 – Packaging and promotion workshop, Inn at Castledawson hosted by Jason Powell, Powell Destination Marketing. The group covered areas including itinerary building, packaging and marketing with a focus on networking and working together. A total of 15 business representatives attended with very positive feedback. Since then the group have worked together to produce itineraries and packages and are now cross selling the region. Many of them have progressed and now sit on the Seamus Heaney cluster.

Hill of The O’Neill Celebration 1 June 2016

As part of Year of Food celebrations, Mid Ulster Council Tourism, Arts and South West College collaborated in delivering a re‐enactment of the wedding banquet of Hugh O’Neill and Mabel Bagenal on Hill of The O’Neill, Dungannon. The event targeted tourism trade both north and south and commenced with 9 Coach Operators, Active Retirement Ireland representatives and travel trade arriving onsite and doing a familiarisation trip of the region. This group visited Hill of the O’Neill, received a brieﬁng on Seamus Heaney HomePlace from Brian McCormick, Centre Manager and visited Tullaghoge Fort. The group had breakfast in the Tower on the Hill, prepared by students of SW College, lunch in Brewers House, Donaghmore and stayed overnight in Tullylagan Country House Hotel. Tourism NI funded all aspects of this including food and accommodation plus coach transfers to and from Dublin. The main marriage event was attended by over 100 tourism business representatives from across Mid Ulster and again the banquet was prepared by South West College students. The living history element was provided by Footsteps and feedback was excellent. Tour operators who attended are now including Hill Of The O’Neill in their programmes. These include Pab Tours, Brack Tours and Matthews Coaches. This event also provided invaluable networking opportunities for businesses for example, Blessingbourne Estate is now a preferred site for clients staying in the Lough Erne Golf Resort through a contact made with LEGR Manager and chef Noel Mc Meel who attended the event.

Pictured Mai McQuaid, President Active Retirement Ireland, Paula McIntyre Radio Ulster, Cllr Cathal Mallaghan , Norah Browne MBE and Geraldine Egan, Tourism Ireland Tourism Promotions

Staﬀ have participated in a number of tourism promotions throughout the year, these included:

Meet the Buyer on 12 ‐ 13 April in St Georges Market, interviews with 22 incoming tour operators plus positive contacts made with Geraldine Egan, Tourism Ireland resulting in Council getting Northern Ireland Industry Co Operation funding for international promotions. Details as follows:

Jump into Ireland East US Media and Travel Trade Showcase

Brian McCormick, Seamus Heaney HomePlace Manager tyravelled with tourism Ireland to Boston, Chicago and New York to promote Mid Ulster Council tourism and Seamus Heaney HomePlace. Events included trade visits, interviews, media interviews and B2B meetings. This proved an invaluable early opportunity to get the promotion of Seamus Heaney Homeplace underway both in the US market and with Tourism Ireland.

Royal Highland Show, Edinburgh

Scotland’s largest consumer show, staﬀ worked alongside Tourism Ireland staﬀ and trade from across Ireland promoting the Mid Ulster region.

World Travel Market, London

This was a first for Mid Ulster Council, the event took place at Excel, London from the 7th – 9th November. The event allowed tourism staff to meet with key industry professionals over a more concentrated period of time on the Tourism Ireland stand. Staff who attended found that networking opportunities on the stand excellent this year, with contacts made with over 50 tourism and travel trade professionals, education groups and travel writers. Staff from Tourism Ireland were also readily available over the three days to advise on sales and marketing opportunities for Mid Ulster Council product.

The Junior Minister with responsibility for Tourism, Patrick O’Donovan and CEO of Tourism Ireland, Niall Gibbons also worked on the stand over the duration of the show, thus providing us with invaluable contacts.

Follow up calls are ongoing with contacts made at World Travel Market, and at least 6 companies on the stand including, Irish welcome Tours, Abbey Tours, CIE Tours (specialist tours), The Irish Tourism Group, Hotels and More and Culture & Heritage tours all indicating that they will feature Seamus Heaney HomePlace next year in their itineraries.

Balmoral Show from 11‐ 13 May.

Tourism businesses from across the region including: Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trail, Tullylagan Country House Hotel, Glenavon Hotel, The Jungle NI, Lough Neagh Eels and Corick Country House Hotel with tourism staﬀ worked over the three days to sell the region. Over 800 pieces of literature including the Mid Ulster Guide, special oﬀers brochure and individual attractions literature were distributed. Feedback from trade was excellent with individual business reporting in excess of £7,200 worth of bookings and sales of weekend breaks plus great development of leads and potential business. Businesses also developed their databases in terms of collating email addresses through competitions and doing follow up mailshots to these. Overall there is positive feedback from businesses promoting on the stand. There was great interest in Seamus Heaney HomePlace with literature distributed and the poem “Digging” forming a fun activity for children on the stand, professional photography of this activity was captured by Brain Morrison and featured on Balmoral Show facebook page (36,000 followers) for the duration of the show.

Active Retirement Ireland, (ARI) Travel Trade show, Wexford

Tourism staff promoted Mid Ulster tourism at this event on 18 May, attended by 2,000 active retirement group organisers. ARI have over 600 Active Retirement Groups across Ireland. Literature was distributed on the key attractions of the region and details of key group collated. Staff also promoted the Hill of O’Neill marriage event to members and secured attendance by the National President of Active Retirement Ireland – Mai McQuaid and two directors of the organisation. Staff also promoted Hill of The O’Neill to travel trade present and JMG Coached, Donegal will schedule Seamus Heaney HomePlace into their programme for 2017.

Clogher Valley Show

The 98th Clogher Valley Agricultural Show was held on 27 July 2016. This event is one of the largest one day agricultural show’s in N Ireland with visitor’s attending the event from all over the island of Ireland. The event proves to be a promotional platform for tourism businesses within Mid Ulster. Mid Ulster District Council tourism department hired 80ft by 20ft of promotional space in a very prominent location within the main ﬁeld and provided gazebos/tables for up to 10 local tourism SME’s, to take opportunity to promote and sell at the show. As well as MUDC staﬀ prominently promoting Seamus Heaney Homeplace and other tourism product the following 10 businesses/council departments attended:

 Killymoon Castle  Lissan House  Chocolate Fountains Weddings Parties and More (WPM)  Linda’s Bakery  Fluﬀy Meringue  Corick House Hotel and Spa  Glenavon House Hotel  Jungle NI  Todds Leap 

Bloom Dublin

Staﬀ worked on this promotion at Bloom, Dublin from 3 ‐ 6 June 2016. Bloom is the largest gardening and outdoor show in Ireland and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Trade representatives from the region also attended, these included Heraldic Craft, Corick House Hotel and Blessingbourne.

Shopping Centre Promotions

These promotions were carried out in the lead up to the opening of Seamus Heaney HomePlace in septemberand included Victoria square, Belfast and Foyleside. Databases of names for Seamus Heaney HomePlace mailing list were compiled and opening weekend programmes distributed.

Tourism Ireland Europe Dinner

Staff member attended and gave 5 minute presentation on HomePlace and distributed brochures to all attendees after this presentation. Feedback was very positive on the night and follow up communication is ongoing with Tourism Ireland staff. TIL Europe staff are now liaising with tourism staff on how to best communicate the message of Seamus Heaney HomePlace to European markets. This work is ongoing.

Holiday World, Belfast & Dublin, January 2017

All businesses in Mid Ulster were invited to participate and promote on the stand, businesses who participated included: NI Self Catering (Aghaloo) J&K Coaches Walsh’s Hotel Jungle NI Shepherds Rest Seamus Heaney HomePlace Blessingbourne Estate

All businesses ran competitions on the stand to build unique databases and over 750 entries have been received for Seamus Heaney HomePlace, these are currently being collated into workable database. Staﬀ also managed a competition for the Shepherds Rest and all other participants on the stand. Businesses who have responded to date report good enquiries and useful feedback from the show plus some good forward bookings. Sales reported to date ‐ £1,100 euro.

Celtic Connections, Tourism Ireland, Glasgow, 18 January 2107

Trade/Meet The Buyer style workshop featuring Scottish Operators. Met with 25 Operators, plus presentation from Tourism Ireland on need for development of the North West along the Wild Atlantic Way. Operators struggling to ﬁnd bed spaces south of Galway and Dublin and TIL now promoting the North and West very strongly. In meetings operators also report diﬃculty in sourcing space in Belfast and Derry and with the development of HomePlace there is perhaps potential for existing hotel accommodation in Mid Ulster. Tourism will follow up on this. 100 Great Days Out

Tourism Business Engagement Oﬃcer Mary Mc Gee and Laura McGlone from HomePlace attended 100 Great Days Out Fair in the Slieve Donard on Wednesday 15th February. Group day out organisers from Northern Ireland and ROI attended the event with 150 from the ROI market and 300 from Northern Ireland. The fair was extremely busy with 130 competition entries received and a new database of active retirement groups being compiled from these entries. This have been made available to Seamus Heaney HomePlace staﬀ.

Bellaghy World Host Award

Mid Ulster Council has created an arts, literary and visitor centre which is highlighting the signiﬁcant contribution Seamus Heaney made as an Irish poet, playwright, translator and lecturer. Through this WorldHost programme we have engaged with the people of Bellaghy village and surrounding area, shown them the region and its wealth of Heaney relates faces and places, gave them a sense of place plus equipped them with the essential skills and techniques that form the fundamentals of being a genuine service professional. The programme has encouraged people to take pride in Bellaghy, and in the unique legacy Seamus Heaney has gifted to the region.

Delivery of the WorldHost was targeted at 2 groups;  an existing Seamus Heaney cluster group of businesses  local Bellaghy businesses

Delivery – Bellaghy WorldHost Ambassador Programme

Delivery of this element of the programme was completed with 16 businesses successfully completing from within the village itself. An additional 10 businesses including taxi companies have completed from outside the village, again see list attached.

In total to date 40 staff from a variety of businesses have completed the initial programme. The WorldHost Ambassador programme has been tailored specifically to the Bellaghy area and Seamus Heaney heritage and included a Seamus Heaney familiarisation trip delivered by Gerry Darby, local Seamus Heaney expert. The familiarisation trip included all of the sites synonymous with Seamus Heaney and his writing and included Bellaghy Bawn, Seamus Heaney’s family home of Mossbawn, Church Island, Hillhead and The Forge, Ballyscullion House and concluded with a visit to St Marys Parish Church, Bellaghy and Seamus Heaney’s grave. Mid Ulster Council Staff Training

The Bellaghy WorldHost delivery was complemented by 10 staﬀ from Mid Ulster Council Visitor Information Centres completing a Tour Guide Training programme that included the WorldHost Ambassador programme, The Principles of Customer Service and Service across Cultures.

Taxi Driver / Coach Company WorldHost Ambassador Training

Mid Ulster Council in preparation for the opening of Seamus Heaney HomePlace and the weekend of celebrations commencing on 30 September invited local taxi companies and coach companies to complete the WorldHost Ambassador programme. This training took place on Wednesday 21st September and 16 local taxi drivers successfully completed the programme with 5 taxi businesses receiving the business award.

Seamus Heaney HomePlace

All staﬀ in Seamus Heaney have also completed WorldHost Ambassador and Principles of Customer Service Training with 19 people successfully completing the programme.

Through this Bellaghy village has achieved WorldHost Village status as a result of this project. This will further enhance the destination and strengthen the tourism oﬀering in support of the new Seamus Heaney HomePlace. To mark this achievement Mid Ulster Council hosted a celebration day on 27 October 2016 in Seamus Heaney HomePlace. 5. Visitor Information Centres & Visitor Servicing

The three VIC’s continues to support the tourism service provided by Council. Three of thirty one Northern Ireland Tourist Board networked centres, all of which have excellent facilities providing a wide array of services to the local community and visitors to the area. Cookstown VIC has been assessed as a Destination Tourist Information Centre by the TNI. With Magherafelt and Dungannon VIC holding Local Status

VIC Services:  Free information on Northern Ireland’s tourist attractions, events and accommodation  Reference material on Republic of Ireland  Local and National Accommodation Booking Service  Sale of Fishing Licences  Retail outlet providing a range of literature and crafts  Tour Guide Service

 Box Oﬃce for Burnavon and Square Box events

 Free WIFI Opening Hours The centres are open on an average of 65 hours per week including nights & Weekends.

Staffing Head of Tourism: Michael Browne Tourism Manager: Mary McKeown Tourism Officers: Charmain Bell, Genevieve Bell, Mary McGee and Graeme Major Full Time Tourism / Box Office Advisors: 5 Part‐time Tourism / Box Office Advisor: 3 Casual Tourism / Box Office Advisors: 15

VISITOR FIGURES 2016/17 ORIGIN OF VISITORS 2016/17 ENQUIRY TYPE Total Visitors: 84,873 91% Northern Ireland 25% Local Enquiries Counter: 38,005 9% Out of State 20% Entertainment Phone: 15,321 19% Activities Post / Email: 709 15% Places to Visit Browsers: 30,838 8% Directions 5% Accommodation 2% Travel & Transport 2% Where to Eat 2% Other 1% ROI 1% Caravan & Camping

VIC INCOME Total Sales: £14,822.75 Crafts: £9,557.75 Fishing licences: £5265.00(10% commission to VIC) Events: £8940.10 Visitor Information Centres

Craft Sales Targeted development of the craft shop within Cookstown VIC and Magherafelt VIC has yielded a very positive growth this year. Target buying and continual rationalisation of stock and lines carried has resulted in a much more attractive visual merchandising look for the shop which has encouraged additional purchase.

Development of The Bridewell and Magherafelt VIC

Formerly the Court House and jail, The Bridewell based in the centre of town now contains Magherafelt VIC and library. A listed building with enchanting history the structure and exterior of the building remain largely unchanged. It is anticipated that Mid Ulster Tourism will be successful with our proposed applica‐ tion to the Heritage Lottery Fund. As we pursue funds to modernise the toilets and create a kitchen area to facilitate meetings or conference catering.

Finance

The Cookstown craft shop made a healthy proﬁt last year (2016/2017). The total income for the year was £12,934.10 and Magherafelt’s craft shop brought in £2,285.79.

Seamus Heaney HomePlace

Although not formally recognised as part of Visitor Information Centre network, Seamus Heaney HomePlace sees a large number of visitors and tourism related queries. 27,910 visitors to date from the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland and much of Europe have attended the exhibition, The Helicon and events.

Tourism Digital Strategy

Still in a formative stage it is anticipated that the Digital Strategy will compliment the functions of the VIC network and play a key role in connecting a visitor to our area and the accommodation, attractions and activities contained within.

PROJECT DETAIL 2016/ 17OUTPUTS 2017/ 18 OBJECTIVES

Tourism Signage Audit Rolling call 2016/17 To organise an annual audit of The tourism section within MUDC A Rolling call for directional sign‐ tourism signage requirements by is responsible for co‐ordinating age was carried out in 2016/17. 2 way of a public call in 2017 with a tourism signing applications for application was received and 1 ap‐ view to having any approved sign‐ the District. Places/properties plication was successful . The age erected in 2018. that are declared eligible by Tour‐ property received a letter of oﬀer. ism NI and Transport NI can be The new signage was erected in signed through the Council tour‐ Winter 2014. ism signing scheme.

Guidance from Transport NI sug‐ gest that Council carried out an annual audit of signage require‐ ments.

Budget: Public Notices in 3 local papers: Approximate cost £650 Included as part of the annual marketing programme

DISTRICT WIDE MONITORING RESULTS 2016

Pedestrian Counters Jan‐March April‐June July‐Sep Oct ‐ Dec TOTAL unless otherwise stated

Beaghmore Stone 2,236 5,148 4,891 1,909 14,184 Circles

Dunnamore 180 281 334 259 1,054 Walkway

Davagh Car Park 3,962 5,711 5,713 4,205 19,591 (Cars)

Davagh Pump Track 1,665 1,690 1,951 1,314 6,620

Davagh Pyro Trail 4,567 3,469 4,285 3,149 15,470

Davagh Red Trail 2,323 2,822 2,366 2,328 9,839

Manor Park (car) 12,048 13,469 11,703 10,819 48,039

Ballyronan Marina 43,849 n/a n/a n/a 43,849 (car)

Springhill House n/a 9,005 12,070 5,591 26,666 (car)

Wellbrook Beetling 598 1,143 1,584 220 3,545 Mill (car)

Lough Fea Pedestrian 10,254 17,542 14,902 11,030 53,728

Main Car Park 10,355 15,263 15,116 8,198 48,932 Western Car Park 1,887 253 n/a n/a 2,140

Dungannon Park 34,145 52,464 9,636 27,280 163,577

Car Park (Car)

Roundlake 7,741 9831 6,869 34,077 Fivemiletown

12,974 HomePlace 12,974

(opened 30th Sep‐ tember 2016)

MONITORING & EVALUATION

Tourism Programme The content of the Tourism Programme is ambitious and its success is dependant on the delivery by the Tourism Team. The programme provides a framework to ensure value for money and best re‐ sults for the local tourism industry. Integral to the delivery of the Tourism Programme is the clear need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to determine the content of future programmes. All projects are evaluated on completion. Those projects which are externally grant aided are subject to strict monitoring regulations.

Visitor Information Centre TNI commission an independent consultant to carry out ‘Mystery Shopper’ reports. The assessment has changed slightly to consist of scoring against the following; a telephone enquiry, site visit, staﬀ awareness, facilities and then goes on to record the ‘mystery shoppers’ overall experi‐ ence within the VIC and region. It is envisaged that fours assessments will be carried out per annum;

Mystery Shopper Results 2016 Three Mystery Shopper Exercises were carried out in Cookstown Tourist Information Centre in 2016 Results were as follows;

September 2016 Telephone Call: scored 90% Exterior of VIC: 81% Interior of VIC: 91% Staﬀ Awareness: 93% Facilities: 81% Overall Experience: 88%

TNI fully assess the mystery shopper reports to inform a detailed training programme for the VIC Network, which includes a range of customer service training courses and product knowledge training. Staﬀ of the three VIC’s are encouraged to attend where possible.

Report on Mid Ulster Rural Development Partnership

Reporting Officer Fiona McKeown

Contact Officer Eamon Gallogly

Is this report restricted for confidential business? Yes If ‘Yes’, confirm below the exempt information category relied upon No x

1.0 Purpose of Report

1.1 To update members on progress with the interim rural development strategy for Mid Ulster.

2.0 Background

2.1 Mid Ulster Rural Development Partnership has been allocated £10.16m for the roll out of a local rural development strategy for Mid Ulster funded under the 2014- 2020 NI Rural Development Programme.

The Schemes within the local rural strategy are: • Rural Business Investment Scheme • Rural Services Scheme • Village Renewal • Rural Broadband; and • LAG Co-operation

Further detail on these Schemes is available on the LAG website www.midulsterrdp.org

3.0 Main Report

3.1 Members are asked to note progress on the roll out of the strategy schemes as follows:

Rural Business Investment Scheme (RBIS) To date 29 businesses have been approved for funding under this Scheme to the

value of £598,993. The job creation target from these projects is 67. 13 of these

projects have completed to date.

The next call for application under this Scheme opened on 7th April for manufacturing/engineering sector businesses and will close on Thursday 25th May. This is a closed call meaning only those businesses who have attended a funding workshop and submitted an eligible expression of interest have been invited to apply - 59 potential applicants in total.

Rural Basic Services Scheme The LAG has opened its first call for capital applications under this Scheme which will close on 28th April. The LAG will have a 90 working day timescale for the assessment of these applications from the 28th April. It is likely that the value of applications expected under this call will exceed the funding allocation available and should this occur letters of offer will be issued to approved projects based on a highest ranked score basis.

Co-operation The LAG is exploring a number of potential co-operation projects at present. These include:

• Lough Neagh – a pre-development study will be carried out to explore specific actions to improve accessibility and joint marketing of the Lough as a tourism resource. At this stage the project involves the LAGs in Armagh/Banbridge/Craigavon and Antrim/Newtownabbey. Council officers are assisting the LAG in developing a terms of reference for the pre development study.

• International Appalachian Trail (IAT) – Derry and Strabane Local Action Group are leading on this project which is also at pre development stage. A consultant has been appointed by Derry and Strabane LAG to commence the feasibility study.

16/17 Spend target The LAG set a spend target of £312,000 for 16/17 which was achieved with actual spend of £328,474.45.

The 17/18 Implementation Plan target has been submitted to DAERA with a spend target of £1.23m. The majority of this spend will come from the Rural Business Investment Scheme and Village Renewal (£403,000). 4.0 Other Considerations

4.1 Financial & Human Resources Implications

Financial: N/A

Human:N/A

4.2 Equality and Good Relations Implications

N/A

4.3 Risk Management Implications

N/A

5.0 Recommendation(s)

5.1 Members are asked to note the progress outlined above.

6.0 Documents Attached & References

N/A