Wigan Local Development Framework Economy and Employment

Evidence Base Review Topic Paper

August 2007

Wigan Council

Environmental Services

Borough Profile:

Contents

Title Table

Employment

A International

Lisbon Strategy: Towards a Europe of Innovation and Knowledge A1

Cohesion policy in support of growth and jobs A2

B National

Planning for Economic Development B1

Planning for Economic Development NLP Report B2

Employment Land Reviews: Guidance Note B3

Planning for Sustainable Rural Economic Development B4

Developing Entrepreneurship for the Creative Industries B5 The Role of Higher and Further Education Good Practice Guide for Tourism B6

Tomorrow's Tourism Today B7

B8 Measuring Sustainable Tourism at the Local Level

The National Statistics Review of Tourism Statistics B9

C Regional

Moving Forward - The Northern Way C1

North West Regional Economic Strategy C2

The North West Employment Land Study C3

North West Ports Economic Trends and Land Use Study C4

D Sub regional

Greater Manchester Economic Strategy 2004/05 – 2006/07 D1

Greater Manchester City Region Development Programme D2

Title Table

Greater Manchester Skills Analysis and Priorities D3

Demand for Employment Land in Greater Manchester Study D4

The Manchester City Region Knowledge Economy Report D5

NWRA Mersey Belt Study Policy Statement D6

Liverpool City Region Strategic Proposals D7

Liverpool City Region Development Programme Report D8

Sub Regional Economic Strategy for Warrington and Cheshire (CWEA D9 2004)

E Local

Wigan Economic Development Plan E1

B2B Final Report E2

Wigan’s Economic Development Update July 2007 E3

Migrant Workers Report E4

Wigan Tourism Strategy 2004 - 2009 (Draft) E5

F General Statistics

Annual Business Inquiry 2005 F1

2006 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings F2

Business Closure rates F3

New Business Survival Rates F4

New Business Formation F5

Gross Added Value per head F6

Incapacity benefits claimants per 000 16+ population F7

Long term unemployment as a proportion of all unemployment (12 F8 months+)

Unemployment rate F9

Other relevant Evidence

Title Topic Paper National & Regional Planning Policy Guidance 4 Planning Policy National & Regional Planning for Economic Development Planning Policy Employment Land Reviews: Guidance National & Regional Note Planning Policy Planning Policy Statement 1: Sustainable National & Regional Development Planning Policy National & Regional Planning Policy Statement 6: Town Centres Planning Policy National & Regional Planning Policy Statement 7: Rural Areas Planning Policy National & Regional Planning Policy Statement 13: Transport Planning Policy Planning Policy Statement 25: National & Regional Development and Flood Risk Planning Policy Regional Planning Guidance for the North West National & Regional (RPG 13) - Adopted March 2003 Planning Policy Draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the North National & Regional West Planning Policy Draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the North National & Regional West Panel Report Planning Policy Open Space, Play, Children Act 2004 Sport and Recreation Spatial Planning for Sport and Active Open Space, Play, Recreation: Guidance on Sport England’s Sport and Recreation Aspirations and Experience North West On The Move: The North West Open Space, Play, Plan for Sport and Physical Activity 2004- Sport and Recreation 2008 Wigan Children and Young People’s Plan Open Space, Play, 2006-2009 Sport and Recreation Open Space, Play, Taking SHAPE for the future: 2006-2012 Sport and Recreation Wigan Sustainable Employment, Regeneration and Transport Corridor: Accessibility Alternative Options Study Making the Connexions: Final Report on Accessibility Transport and Social Exclusion

The Transport Innovation Fund Accessibility

The Eddington Transport Study: The Case Accessibility for Action Parking Forum Position Paper 7 – Parking and its Role in Workplace and School Accessibility Travel Planning

Title Topic Paper

GB Freight Report 2006 Accessibility

The Future of Air Transport Accessibility

North West Regional Planning Assessment Accessibility for the Railway

Northern Rail Cycling Strategy Accessibility

North West Regional Freight Strategy Accessibility

Greater Manchester Local Transport Plan 2 Accessibility

Greater Manchester Local Transport Plan 2 Accessibility Accessibility Strategy Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Accessibility Strategy

Corridor Partnership 3 (Draft) Report Accessibility

Greater Manchester Local Transport Plan 2 Accessibility Bus Strategy Principles of the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive Park and Accessibility Ride Strategy Greater Manchester Freight Strategy Accessibility

Manchester Airport Draft Master Plan to Accessibility 2030 A New Deal for Trunk Roads in England: Accessibility Understanding the New Approach National Planning Good Practice Guide for Tourism Policy

Wigan Borough Retail Study Retail and Centres

Wigan Pier Quarter Strategy Retail and Centres Cities North West (Institute for Public Policy Research and North West Development Retail and Centres Agency) Rate reform boost for small businesses and town centres (Department for Communities Retail and Centres and Local Government) ‘Planning White Paper Background (Royal Retail and Centres Town Planning Institute Press release) Barker Review of Land Use Planning, Final Retail and Centres Report - Recommendations Securing the Future: The UK Sustainable Environment, Natural Development Strategy Resources and Pollution An Environmental Vision Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution Environmental Quality in Spatial Planning Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution

Title Topic Paper Local Agenda 21 Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution Water for life and livelihoods – A framework for Environment, Natural river basin planning in England and Wales Resources and Pollution (Environment Agency, 2006) Waterways for Tomorrow Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution Making Space for Water Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution River Douglas Catchment Flood Management Environment, Natural Plan Scoping Report Resources and Pollution Mersey Estuary Catchment Flood Management Environment, Natural Plan Resources and Pollution Greater Manchester Strategic Flood Risk Environment, Natural Assessment Resources and Pollution Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems: promoting Environment, Natural good practice Resources and Pollution The SUDS Manual Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution Planning Policy Statement 25 Appendix F: Environment, Natural Managing Surface Water Resources and Pollution North West Green Infrastructure Guide Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution Regenerating the English Coalfields: Interim Environment, Natural evaluation of the Coalfields regeneration Resources and Pollution programmes Guidance for the Safe Development of Housing Environment, Natural on Land Affected by Contamination Resources and Pollution Wigan Derelict Land Survey 05/06 Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution Contaminated Land Inspection Strategy Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution Draft Report On The Investigation Into Minerals Environment, Natural Resources in Greater Manchester Resources and Pollution Environment, Natural ODPM Circular 05/2005 Resources and Pollution

Air Quality Strategy for England Scotland Wales Environment, Natural and Northern Ireland, 2000 and 2003 Addendum Resources and Pollution

Development Control: Planning for Air Quality Environment, Natural Resources and Pollution Greater Manchester LTP2 Air Quality Strategy Environment, Natural and Action Plan Resources and Pollution

International

Table A1 Title Lisbon Strategy: Towards a Europe of Innovation and Knowledge Proponent body European Union / The Lisbon Special European Council Status (e.g. statutory, non- statutory) Date produced 200 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The aim of the Lisbon Special European Council of 23-24 March 2000 was to invigorate the Community's policies, against the backdrop of the most promising economic climate for a generation in the Member States.

Two recent developments are changing the economy and society. Globalisation means that Europe must set the pace in all the sectors where competition is intensifying. The sudden arrival and growing importance of information and communication technologies (ICT) in professional and private life call for a radical overhaul of the education system in Europe and guaranteed lifelong learning opportunities. In 2005 the strategy was re-launched to ensure the key objectives are met. Key messages, requirements, objectives The Lisbon European Council therefore endeavoured to issue guidelines for exploiting the potential offered by the new economy, in order to eradicate the scourge of unemployment, amongst other aims. As the Cardiff, Cologne and Luxembourg processes together provide a range of suitable instruments, no new processes were considered necessary in Lisbon. On the contrary, it is through the strategy of adapting and strengthening the existing processes that the potential for economic growth, job creation and social cohesion can best develop - for example by providing the European Union with reliable data to compare between the Member States, so that appropriate measures can be taken. Opportunities The technological challenge Information and communication technologies (ICT) represent both a major challenge and a significant opportunity for job creation. The Commission intends to improve the quality and quantity of jobs in the European Union in the short and medium term through the impact of ICT. In a more general context, it is important to make sure that this information society is accessible to all, regardless of social category, race, religion or gender. This digital economy, with the potential to improve quality of life, is an important factor in improving competitiveness and in job creation. Even so, it is vital to ensure that this economic and social transition - however fast it occurs - does not leave certain categories of citizen behind and that the fruits of growth are distributed equitably. This is the aim of initiatives such as the Commission's " eEurope " initiative, which also puts the emphasis on increasing economic productivity and improving the quality and accessibility of services for the benefit of all European citizens, based on a fast infrastructure (broadband) with secure Internet access available to as many people as possible. A knowledge-based society If people arriving on the labour market are to participate in the knowledge economy, their level of education must be sufficiently high. The inverse relationship between level of education and rate of unemployment is becoming more pronounced. Europe must raise the educational level of school-leavers. Teaching and research should be better coordinated at European level. This can be achieved by creating networks of national and joint research programmes. Making Europe more competitive If Europe is to become the world's most competitive economic area, it is also important to improve research conditions and create a more favourable climate for entrepreneurship, in particular by reducing the administrative costs associated with bureaucracy. Integration of the financial markets and coordination of macroeconomic policies

The potential of the euro must provide an opportunity to integrate the European financial markets. As emphasised in the Commission communication " Risk capital: A key to job creation in the European Union ", the risk capital markets are vital for the development of SMEs. The conclusions of the European Council demonstrate the need for a strict timetable so that a plan of action for the financial markets can be in operation by 2005. With regard to economic policies, the priority is still macroeconomic stability, as defined in the Stability and Growth Pact , integrating the objectives of growth and employment. The transition to a knowledge economy calls for structural policies to play a more important role than before. Modernising and strengthening the European social model In its contribution to the preparations for the Lisbon European Council, the Commission emphasised that the European social model includes resources to support the transition to a knowledge economy. Social integration will be promoted by encouraging work, guaranteeing viable pension schemes - at a time when the European population is described as "ageing" - and guaranteeing social stability. Issues / Constraints Due to a favourable economic outlook, full employment seemed tangible in 2000. However, owing to the economic slowdown and structural problems in the Member States, the European Union is still lagging behind as regards this objective. The weaknesses of the European labour market continue to create difficulties: • the insufficient number of jobs being created in the services sector, even though this is by far the most important in terms of employment; • significant regional imbalances, particularly since enlargement in 2004; • a high rate of long-term unemployment; • labour supply does not match demand, which is quite often the case in periods of economic recovery; • a shortage of women participating in the labour market; • European demographic trends, in particular an ageing population. Taking stock five years after the launch of the Lisbon strategy , the Commission found the results to date disappointing with the European economy has failing to deliver the expected performance in terms of growth, productivity and employment. Job creation has slowed and there is still insufficient investment in research and development. The Commission based its findings on the November 2004 report by the high-level group entitled "Rising to the challenge: the Lisbon strategy for growth and employment". This evaluation of progress achieved with the Lisbon strategy is extremely critical: lack of political resolve and inability to complete the internal market in goods and establish that for services. The report is also critical of a top-heavy agenda, poor coordination and irreconcilable priorities. The Commission has decided to focus attention on the action to be taken rather than targets to be attained. The date of 2010 and the objectives concerning the various rates of employment are thus no longer put forward as priorities. This Communication fits into this context as a signal for relaunching policy priorities, particularly with regard to growth and employment. The Member States, in order to achieve this progress, must focus their efforts on the reforms agreed as part of the strategy and pursue stability-orientated macroeconomic policies and sound budgetary policies. A new partnership for growth and employment is essential in order to give a fresh start to the Lisbon strategy. Accordingly, in order to stimulate growth, the Commission intends to:

• make the European Union (EU) more attractive to investors and workers by building up the internal market, improving the European and national regulations, by ensuring open and competitive markets within and outside Europe, and lastly by extending and improving European infrastructures ;

• encourage knowledge and innovation, by promoting more investment in research and development, by facilitating innovation, the take-up of information and communication technologies (ICT) and the sustainable use of resources, and by helping to create a strong European industrial base. How could the Local Development Framework respond For the Core Strategy to identify Wigan borough’s role in achieving macroeconomic growth

through implementation of the stability orientated macroeconomic policies and growth of a knowledge economy in the borough.

Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides background information.

Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Housing Retail and Cntres

Table A2 Title Cohesion policy in support of growth and jobs Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? At the March 2005 European Council, the Lisbon strategy was renewed with the adoption of the partnership for growth and jobs. In line with this strategy, cohesion policy must be focused on promoting sustainable growth, competitiveness and jobs. The strategic guidelines identify those areas in which cohesion policy can contribute to the achievement of other Community priorities, including those deriving from the Lisbon strategy. They are also in line with the integrated guidelines for growth and jobs . Key messages, requirements, objectives The Community Strategic Guidelines contain the principles and priorities of cohesion policy and suggest ways the European regions can take full advantage of the € 308 billion that has been made available for national and regional aid programmes over the next seven years. National authorities will use the guidelines as the basis for drafting their national strategic priorities and planning for 2007-2013, the so called National Strategic Reference Frameworks (NSRFs). According to the guidelines and in line with the renewed Lisbon strategy, programmes co-financed through the cohesion policy should seek to target resources on the following three priorities: • improving the attractiveness of Member States, regions and cities by improving accessibility, ensuring adequate quality and level of services, and preserving their environmental potential;

• encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship and the growth of the knowledge economy by research and innovation capacities, including new information and communication technologies; and

• creating more and better jobs by attracting more people into employment entrepreneurial activity, improving adaptability of workers and enterprises and increasing investment in human capital. Opportunities Investment and jobs The Communication lists three groups of measures for making Europe and its regions a more attractive place to invest and work. First, transport infrastructures must be expanded and improved. With this in mind, the Member States must give priority to the 30 projects of European interest by investing in secondary connections. In addition, better access to rail infrastructure and improved connectivity of landlocked territories to the Trans-European network (TEN-T) must be encouraged. The same applies to the environmental dimension of transport networks and the development of short-sea shipping. Knowledge and innovation The aims of growth and job creation will require a structural shift in the economy towards knowledge-based activities. To achieve this, it will be necessary to: • increase and improve investment in research and technological development (RTD), especially in the private sector (including through public-private partnerships (PPPs), small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and cooperation among companies); • facilitate innovation and encourage the creation of companies with the objective of promoting a climate which promotes the production, dissemination and use of new knowledge (entrepreneurship); • promote the information society and the dissemination of information and communication technology (ICT) equipment to companies and households; and

• improve access to finance by creating financial engineering mechanisms, while supporting financial instruments other than subsidies.

Jobs To create more and better jobs, cohesion policy must aim to address the challenges highlighted in the European employment strategy. In particular, more people must be attracted into and retained in employment through the modernisation of social protection systems. In addition, worker adaptability and labour market flexibility must be increased by investing in human capital through improvements in education and skills. In line with these priorities, the administrative capacity of public administrations and services must be increased and a healthy labour force maintained. Territorial cohesion and cooperation Cohesion policy must be adapted to the particular needs and characteristics of individual regions in terms of the problems and opportunities which derive from their geographical situation. The territorial dimension includes the following themes: • the contribution of cities (urban areas) to growth and jobs (in order to promote entrepreneurship, local employment and community development, for example);

• supporting the economic diversification of rural areas (e.g. the synergy between structural, employment and rural development policies); and

• cross-border, transnational and interregional cooperation focused on the aims of growth and job creation. Issues / Constraints Investment and jobs The synergies between environmental protection and growth must be strengthened so as to guarantee the sustainability of economic growth, innovation and job creation. With this in mind, the Commission recommends investing in infrastructures, creating attractive conditions for businesses and their staff and putting in place risk prevention measures. In addition, the EU's Kyoto commitments must be taken into account. Traditional energy dependency must be reduced through improvements in energy efficiency and use of renewable energies. How could the Local Development Framework respond • For the Local Development Framework to identify and rigorously assess all issues and options relating to how economic growth can be achieved in the Wigan borough through delivery of strategies such as Northern Way, RES and Greater Manchester Development/ Growth Strategies etc. • The Core Strategy will need to set our clear spatial objectives on how economic growth can be delivered and ensure there is a synergy between that and the strategies and objectives of the Wigan Economic Development Plan and work undertaken by the Economic Regeneration section of the council. • For the Local Development Framework to ensure that infrastructure effectively links into existing and future infrastructure at a national and international scale i.e. Trans European Networks Implications for the sustainability appraisal For the SEA/ SA framework to provide a robust and balanced appraisals of local development documents to ensure that environmental, economic and social sustainability is achieved in the borough. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Housing Related Acts Retail and Centres Council Decision 2006/702/EC of 6 October 2006 on Community strategic guidelines on cohesion [Official Journal L 291 of 21.10.2006]. Communication from the Commission of 20 July 2005 "Common Actions for Growth and Employment: The Community Lisbon Programme" [COM(2005) 330 final - Not published in the Official Journal].

Communication from the Commission of 25 January 2006 to the Spring European Council - Time to move up a gear - Part 1: The new partnership for growth and jobs - Part 2: Country chapters [COM(2006) 30 final - Not published in the Official Journal].

National

Table B1 Title Planning for Economic Development Proponent body ODPM Status (e.g. statutory, non- Non Statutory statutory) Date produced 2004 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? In December 2001, the Government issued the Green Paper, Planning: Delivering a Fundamental Change. Following a period of consultation, the Government published its response, Sustainable Communities – Delivering through Planning. This paper set a timetable of three years for the review of existing national Planning Policy Guidance (PPGs). PPG4, Industrial and Commercial Development and Small Firms was highlighted as a priority for review.

As part of the PPG4 review, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) commissioned ECOTEC Research and Consulting Ltd in association with Roger Tym and Partners to explore current practice and issues involved in planning positively for economic development. The research findings will inform and provide an evidence base for a new planning policy statement and good practice guidance on planning for economic development.

The study was carried out using an inter-linked case study approach, focusing on practice at a regional, county, unitary and district/borough level within four English regions: East of England, South West, West Midlands and the North West. This involved the review of regional policy documents (including Regional Planning Guidance (RPG) and Regional Economic Strategies (RES)) and a sample of development plans; consultations with a range of local, regional and national stakeholders; four regional workshops and a small business workshop; and the assessment of practice in 12 case study areas. Key messages, requirements, objectives The focus of this study has principally been on the process of planning for economic development. Practice in this area is generally focused on two areas: • The development of a strategy or vision for an area, and the strategic allocation of employment land; and • Development Control – the implementation or delivery of the strategy, through the determination of individual planning applications.

Objectives: • To achieve high and stable levels of growth and employment, while ensuring that the benefits of that economic growth can be shared by everyone and so deliver a better quality of life. • To help realise the role of the planning system in facilitating economic development and meeting business needs, future guidance must clearly set out the ways and means by which the system can do this, whilst recognising the important role the system plays in balancing economic development interests against other objectives. • The planning system is not solely concerned with maximising competitiveness or wealth creation. The practice of planning for economic development cannot be divorced from the Government’s broader objectives for land-use planning, such as promoting an urban renaissance and social inclusion5, minimising the need to travel and promoting sustainable development. Opportunities Strategy and Policy Development • The strategic approach of RPG / RSS and RES is generally self-supporting and provides a clear framework for the operation of planning for economic development at a local level. • Found that in some urban contexts, such as Manchester and Birmingham, the planning system has played an important role in facilitating major regeneration programmes through visioning masterplanning and land allocations, and making the links between economic development and community needs. • evidence, that the planning system responding to changes in the economic climate, such as an increasing emphasis on raising the productivity and competitiveness of indigenous companies and recognition of the diminishing opportunities for attracting large inward

investment projects

Allocation of Employment Sites • Assessment of the demand and supply of employment land, and the allocation in development plans, is an important part of the process of planning for economic development. Assessments should be used for: o estimating the demand for economic activities that are not land intensive, o separating out actual needs from more aspirational needs, o providing scope for a more co-ordinated approach to estimating the demand for employment land, led by the respective Regional Planning Bodies • Planning for economic development is contributing to an urban renaissance in a variety of ways. This is a strong component of the strategy at a regional and local level, with some regions / areas identifying that urban areas offer the best means to improve economic performance. There is a strong emphasis on promoting development on previously- developed land and on concentrating development within existing settlements. • The planning system is also seeking to promote a rural renaissance through a range of economic development policies and mechanisms with a focus on steering development towards market towns and the identification of priority areas. At a local level, planning departments are seeking to balance aspirations to facilitate small-scale economic development with the need to protect and enhance the local environment. • Arguably, planning for economic development is contributing strongest to promoting sustainable development in line with national policy, and has sought to balance economic, environment and social interests. • At a local level, planning bodies are seeking to improve access to employment opportunities and to steer development toward priority areas. Transport improvements have been identified as an important pre-requisite to raise economic performance of peripheral or deprived areas. It is rare for planning policy to target particular disadvantaged groups, although there are examples of authorities promoting training initiatives and the provision of childcare facilities.

Recommendations • That regional planning bodies remain the key mechanism for delivering strategic economic development • Local Development Frameworks to set out how the adopted economic development policies and strategy will support the implementation of other economic development strategies, programmes and initiatives. Local Development Frameworks should also clearly set out the expectations of other organisations in contributing and delivering strategies. • The preparation process should look to effective pooling of resources in developing evidence and policies in DPDs such as adjoining local authorities, organisations agencies, landowners etc. • Encourage planning bodies at the regional and local level to develop policies for different types of firms or groups of firms including local businesses/small firms and different sectors. This should contain guidance on the types of planning policies/mechanisms/instruments that can be used to promote different types of firms and sectors. • Safeguard employment land and provide clear criteria where non employment uses / change of use will be accepted and promote economic development considerations to form an important part of the process of determining applications as part of the overall aim of promoting sustainable development. • Provide clear advice on the use of S106 agreements to support the practice of planning for economic development. Issues / Constraints Strategy and Policy Development • Some examples of RES, RPG show that they sometimes lack a strategic approach in dealing with large sites which have created uncertainty for local authorities when interpreting regional policy and for other agencies concerned with land assembly and site development. • Evidence suggests that the integration between the planning system and wider economic strategies, programmes and initiatives should not be over-stated and this is an area that merits improvements. • Development plans broadly support the strategy adopted in RPG / RSS. The timing of development plan reviews has a strong influence on the extent to which they reflect the latest regional thinking. Local policy objectives and priorities are also an important

influence on the economic development policies contained within development plans, particularly in relation to issues such as labour market balance and housing supply. This can lead to some dislocation in the strategy/ policies for economic development at the regional, and local level – for example between regional ‘go for growth’ strategies and more protectionist development plans. • Targeted support for particular sectors or clusters is not a strong feature of planning department’s strategy for economic development beneath the regional level. Cambridgeshire found to be most advanced of the areas assessed. Also found only limited evidence of planning departments developing policies for specific types of firms, such as reserving land for small firms. There is a need for stronger guidance on the ways the planning system can plan pro-actively for different sectors/ clusters and types of firm. • Stakeholders consulted with during the study confirmed that planning departments are placing greater emphasis on supporting indigenous firms, for example by giving preference to local firms at particular sites. Inward investment tends to be the preserve of regional bodies and some of the larger local authorities. However, attracting inward investment projects remains an important part of the strategy for some local areas searching for new employment opportunities.

Allocation of Employment Sites • some stakeholders raised concerns that the economic aspects of sustainable development are now receiving a lower priority than environmental and social concerns.

• Planning for economic development is contributing less explicitly to the promotion of social inclusion, although this reflects the more limited role of planning as a whole to this policy area. How could the Local Development Framework respond • Ensure that the Local Development Framework is based on a robust and credible assessments of demand and supply of employment land which is coordinated with sub regional and regional methodologies. • Assessments of economies are also undertaken with specific focus on market realism and sustainability factors. • Allocations are based on clear criteria such as such as use classes, size, location, accessibility, spatial distribution and priorities, regeneration needs, economic potential, environmental protection, types of sectors, firm size, market availability and sustainability. • Ensure Employment Land Reviews of employment site quality are undertaken on 3 year cyclical basis. • Ensure Local Development Framework process is used to review allocations and release sites if identified as unlikely to come forward. • That reviews of DPDs are programmed to react in timely way to revisions of RPG/ RSS and RES etc. • Ensure the Local Development Framework considers targeting communities and business etc that have specific economic, environmental and social needs when developing policy. • For DPDs to provide spatial policies that: o Safeguard employment land and provide clear criteria where non employment uses / change of use will be accepted. o Promote economic development considerations to form an important part of the process of determining applications as part of the overall aim of promoting sustainable development. o Specifically address the need to increase competitiveness. o Provide and increase access to additional facilities that ensure that an employees’ well being is not adversely effected i.e. reduced need to travel, provision of childcare facilities etc. o Provide clear guidance on S106 contributions and how such agreement can be used to meet economic development objectives. o Explicitly demonstrate how the policy link to and helps deliver other economic/ employment strategies. o Clearly sets out its expectations of other organisations. o That ensure that specific types of business and cluster areas are supported and that allocations are identified to adapt to changing circumstances. o Makes provision for attracting inward investment and not be insular i.e. concentrating on supporting established employers. o Provides a balance of employment development that meets the needs of rural and

urban economies / communities.

Implications for the sustainability appraisal The primary consideration is the tension between balancing the social and environmental elements of sustainability with the argument that economic growth is essential to sustainability despite its impact on the natural environment.

Document makes a number of recommendations regarding the future monitoring of employment land and employment uses that could be integrated into the Annual Monitoring Report. These include:

• Planning bodies establish indicators and targets to monitor the effectiveness of the adopted economic development policies and strategy. • Recommend the closer sharing of intelligence between planning bodies and economic development specialists, including economic development units, in monitoring planning for economic development. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Planning Policy Guidance 4: Industrial, What other topic papers areas may this document commercial development and small effect? Click here and see where else the document can be reviewed. firms

Housing

Table B2 Title Planning for Economic Development NLP Report Proponent body Nathaniel Lichfield Partnership Status (e.g. statutory, non- statutory) Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? On behalf of the Regional Development Agencies, Nathaniel Lichfield and Partners were commissioned to establish the effectiveness of the current national planning policy framework for enabling economic development schemes and comment on whether the policies allow for a responsive approach to economic development.

The methodology involved producing and analysing questionnaires sent to all local authorities regarding their views o the current status of planning policy. The report covers the following areas:

• Policy Review – analyses the range of policy guidance and notes that promote sustainable economic development and identifies the extent to which economic development is embedded within the current national planning policy framework. • Current effectiveness and use of PPG4 – this section assesses the effectiveness of the planning policy guidance note that focuses on economic development, within a changing economic context. • Pressure from housing development – analyses the impact of more recent planning policy statements in relation to housing on safeguarding employment land. • Bringing forward Office Development – an assessment of whether there is sufficient clarity in national policy to plan for employment land for offices, in the context of PPS6 • Employment Land Reviews – identifies the positive impact of, as well as the issues that are arising in undertaking employment land reviews. • Conclusions – Sets out a series of conclusions from the proceeding sections of the report and makes recommendations on how changes within the planning system could continue to impact positively on economic development.

Key messages, requirements, objectives The key findings of the research have identified that the promotion of economic objectives and how these are grounded within a national planning policy framework are not afforded the same weighting as other policy objectives. This issue is compounded by the age of PPG4 Planning for Economic Development (published in 1992), which to an extent has been superseded by more recent planning guidance. As a result of this a number of new planning policy documents and guidance notes have been introduced or existing ones have been revised.

It was agreed that PPG4 would be reviewed as a priority alongside other PPGs and the RDAs feel that the priority to review PPG4 remains. The RDAs would welcome a new PPS4 which is:

• Succinct and user friendly and stresses the need to provide the right type of land in the right location to meet the needs of businesses, • Fills the gaps in current national guidance and signpost applicants/Local Planning Authorities to existing guidance, • Promotes the need for up to date employment land reviews, • Sets criteria to safeguard high quality or economically important land from other uses, • Stresses the need for alignment between the Regional Economic and Regional Spatial Strategies and provides hooks to inform policies within the Regional Spatial Strategies (RSSs) and Development Plan Documents (DPDs) but at the same time allows local flexibility. Opportunities To develop planning policies that meet the needs of a modernising, growing economy. Issues / Constraints • PPG4, in comparison to guidance for other land uses lacks overall clarity and strength

in its policy approach to industrial and commercial development. Compared to other more up to date national policy guidance, it does not contain criteria-based policies with tests (such as those found in PPG3 and PPS6). It is also weak in not expressly supporting the protection of land for industrial and business uses against other competing land uses, particularly in light of the recent changes to PPG 3 “Housing”, paragraph 42(a). This has increased pressure for the re-use of employment sites for housing and is representative of the stronger emphasis and support for housing development in comparison to that currently given to employment uses. • Whilst PPG4 makes reference to the division of business and general industry in the B1 use class and acknowledges the trend towards home working, it makes little reference to the types of economic development now taking place and their varying locational needs. For example, no specific reference is made to the locational requirements of high-technology industrial uses, clusters, new and small businesses, live-work developments, knowledge based industries, environmental industries and different types of office development (private/public). Unlike PPS1 it also does not make any reference to non traditional employment generating uses, leisure, public services, tourism and retail. • As PPG4 was published in 1992, it also makes no reference to Regional Economic Strategies (RESs) and the planning role of the Regional Development Agencies (the need for alignment of the RSS and RES is advocated in PPS11 Regional Planning 2004, with limited explanation of how this is to be achieved). There is also no reference to the need for employment land reviews and how these should be used or for assessments of need, to counter proposals for other replacement land uses and to shape Development Plan Documents. • Paragraph 23 of PPG3 sets a national target of providing 60% of all housing on brownfield land by 2008. No similar target applies to employment development on brownfield land. The requirement to meet this target in PPG3 for such development creates an additional pressure to release brownfield employment sites for housing. • Also, the criteria in Draft PPS3 “Housing” on what constitutes developable land for housing allocation does not include reference to avoiding land which is allocated for alternative uses. Again this will place greater pressure for housing to be brought forward on sites that are currently allocated for employment use. • Moreover it omits the requirement in PPG3 that housing development should only be permitted providing that it does not undermine regional and local strategies for economic development and regeneration, thus lending further weight to the development of housing over and above economic development. • There is little in the way of detailed policy advice on planning for economic development in PPS1, although there is specific support for mixed use developments (paragraph 27). Taking into account the Regional Economic Strategy (RES) and the need to promote investment to deliver longer term economic objectives are also acknowledged. (paragraph 23) • Whilst PPG13 shows greater awareness of the locational requirements of different types of B1 employment than PPG4, it does not prioritise employment uses ahead of other uses on accessible sites for nor does it stipulate the priority for development between town centres and transport interchanges, especially for uses that generate a high number of trips. • Despite the requirement to demonstrate ‘need’ for B1 office uses within town centres, PPS6 provides insufficient guidance on the appropriate methodology for assessing proposals against its requirements. The approach set out in Paragraph 29 of PPS6 is useful, however, there is no guidance as yet as to how this assessment should be considered alongside wider economic objectives and there is no corresponding policy in PPG4. • In light of paragraph 2.51 stating that when selecting sites for allocation a range of other considerations (regeneration, employment and economic growth) may be material to the choice of locations for development, a revised PPG4 requires a similar emphasis. • PPS11 is concerned predominantly with the process of revising a RSS rather than how a consistent approach between the RES and RSS can be achieved. Annex A to PPS11 acknowledges the need for a PPS4, and provides interim guidance until this is in place. How could the Local Development Framework respond To explore the concepts of employment/ cultural clusters and the type, scale and location of development. Implications for the sustainability appraisal

Provides background information.

Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Planning Policy Guidance 4: Industrial, commercial development and small firms

Table B3 Title Employment Land Reviews: Guidance Note Proponent body DCLG Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Statutory Date produced 2004 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Employment Land Reviews Guidance Note was published in December 2004 and was developed in order to provide planning authorities with effective tools with which to assess the demand for and supply of land for employment.

The emphasis of this guidance is on the methodology for undertaking employment land reviews and it does not provide effective policy guidance on employment land. Key messages, requirements, objectives • The guidance note recommends that planning authorities should undertake employment land reviews and housing capacity studies simultaneously. • They should adopt consistent assumptions and approaches, taking account of housing and employment requirements when assessing the likelihood that existing or allocated employment sites will remain in or come forward for employment uses. • It also advocates adopting a systematic approach to assessing the development potential of sites for mixed use development. • The guidance note recommends that local plans should adopt strategies to guide development towards urban centres where appropriate, promote development in small towns and rural areas, promote rural diversification, support local economic development and secure a more balanced pattern of housing and employment across the plan area. Opportunities To undertake and Employment Land Review to provide an assessment of existing employment allocations and ‘clusters’ and identify future land demand requirements, ensuring that the distribution of employment sites is related to the needs of existing and future businesses and the communities of the borough. Issues / Constraints Current shortfall of up to 91 hectares may result in significant constraints should land demand requirements exceed this. How could the Local Development Framework respond • For the Local Development Framework to have full regard to the requirements of Planning Policy Statement 1 to ensure that employment development within the borough is sustainable. • The Core Strategy and Allocations and Infrastructure Development Plan Document to set out broad and site specific areas and policies for employment development throughout the borough. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Not a key document for appraisal. Cross references (General) Cross reference (Topic Reviews) • Planning Policy Guidance 4: Industrial, Economy and Employment Commercial Development and Small Firms Retail and Centres • Planning for Economic Development Housing

Table B4 Title Planning for Sustainable Rural Economic Development Proponent body The Countryside Agency Status (e.g. statutory, non- Non-statutory statutory) Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework?

This guidance has been prepared for local planning authorities to encourage a new positive approach towards developing planning policies and advice for sustainable rural economic development. This guidance will also be of interest to local authority economic development and community development teams involved in the local development and application of positive policies related to supporting sustainable rural economies in their areas.

Key messages, requirements, objectives

Rural areas need strong and durable economies built upon local economic, community and environmental strengths; indiscriminate economic development that threatens the environmental quality and community structure of rural areas should be discouraged.

Past rural policy approaches have often been sectoral, with agriculture, environmental management, housing, service provision, infrastructure and employment addressed as separate issues.

‘Sustainable rural economic development’ is development which provides local social, economic and environmental benefits together. What constitutes it will vary from place to place to reflect different needs, opportunities and potential benefits.

Opportunities

The key features of the Countryside Agency’s new approach to planning for sustainable rural economic development include: • a crucial focus on local economies; • seeking to provide social, economic and environmental benefits together; • providing support for diversification of agricultural enterprises, and the land-based economy more generally, especially where these contribute to environmental enhancement; • enabling rural communities to be more self-sustaining; • policies developed from a sound understanding of the current nature of the local rural economies, and which reflect the scope and capacity for future economic development in rural areas.

Issues / Constraints Providing opportunities for economic growth in rural areas whilst minimising the need to travel and negative impact son the environment. How could the Local Development Framework respond

Step 1: Understanding the state of the local countryside

The first stage in planning for sustainable rural economic development is to develop an understanding of the local rural economy and countryside context to pro-actively inform policy. Issues that may need to be covered include: • local population structure and pattern; • local housing structure; • local economic/business structure; • local infrastructure and services structure; • local agricultural/land economy structure; • local environmental/countryside character information;

• local policy and programmes (social/economic/environmental).

Developing an understanding of how the elements of a rural area relate to one another, and to factors outside the area, is crucial to understanding how an area ‘works’. Key aspects to consider include: • business networks & clusters; • commuting patterns; • service use; • infrastructure use; • shopping patterns; • community networks.

These patterns should be overlaid to establish the overall functionality of the rural area, and thus understand if and how parts of it function in different ways.

Step 2: Synopsis of the state of the local countryside

Having established an understanding of the state of the local countryside, a synopsis should be developed to summarise: • the ‘position’ of the local countryside; • key characteristics; • strengths and weaknesses; • opportunities and constraints to an integrated approach to rural economic development; • important spatial variations in issues across rural areas.

Step 3: Setting a vision

An understanding of the state of the local countryside and the synopsis established under Steps 1 and 2 provide the basis on which to develop a 10-year vision for the future. This should be seen as part of the overall vision for the local authority area set out in the Local Development Framework.

The vision should be realistic and focus on what is most important, and achievable, whilst at the same time being ambitious. The vision should provide a ‘future synopsis’ from which the key features of the local community, economy and environment can be identified, and objectives and policies based. A fundamental element of the vision is that it should be spatial, responding to variation across rural areas.

Step 4: Identifying objectives

Using the vision, clear objectives should be set to guide policy development – adopting an objective-led approach. These should be both overarching (integrated) and thematic. They should be selective and prioritised, focusing on areas where policy and action can bring about necessary change, and include timeframes for achievement. The objectives should also include an analysis of their interrelationships so that integration is a clear focus for the policies to be drawn from.

Step 5: Developing planning policy

Planning policies should be identified to deliver the defined objectives that are integrated with other policies and activities, both within and outside the local authority area. The understanding of the state of the local countryside, synopsis, vision, and objectives should lead to planning policies which are criteria-based and area-specific. It is important that policy criteria reflect the objectives for the area and the spatial differences across it. In this way they should be able to promote development that will provide local social, economic and environmental benefits together. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides background information. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Planning Policy Guidance 4: Industrial, commercial development and small firms

Table B5 Title Developing Entrepreneurship for the Creative Industries: The Role of Higher and Further Education Proponent body Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Creative Industries Division Entrepreneurship Task Group Status (e.g. statutory, non- statutory) Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? This paper provides the background and evidence for encouraging and investing in graduate entrepreneurship to underpin the growth and development of the Creative Industries. It has been produced on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Entrepreneurship Task Group in recognition of the increasingly important contribution made by the Creative Industries to the UK economy and the critical role played by graduates. The paper has been developed and refined through a lengthy process of information gathering, collation of existing reports, studies and research followed by wide consultation across the education and Creative Industries sectors and represents a synthesis of the experience, evidence and findings of over 200 individuals from around 150 organisations and institutions. Key messages, requirements, objectives Evidence clearly identifies the need to increase capacity for entrepreneurial learning across HE and FE to maximise opportunities for all students to develop entrepreneurial qualities to ensure the continued success and competitiveness of the Creative Industries. To achieve this, a more strategic approach is recommended and The Task Group has identified the following priorities for action which are explained in greater detail in the accompanying paper, Making the case for Public Investment:

• Development of a National Framework for entrepreneurial learning. • A comprehensive investigation and evaluation of the existing provider models. • Investment in curriculum innovation and creative infrastructure to create incentives. • Establishment of a National Creative Enterprise Programme that builds on existing good practice and exemplars to increase the scope and scale of opportunities Opportunities The Creative Industries is the fastest growing sector of the UK economy growing at an average of 6% per annum and 10% globally. It contributes 7.9% towards UK GDP and almost 2 million people are employed within its 13 sub-sectors.

The Creative Industries in the UK are currently in a strong competitive position, however failure to build and capitalise on existing strengths and ensure that the sector has the influx of creative entrepreneurial talent it needs will mean that we are likely to fall behind as overseas markets develop. China, New Zealand and Hong Kong, amongst others have formulated strategies for investment in their Creative Industries and closer to home, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are well ahead of England in developing frameworks for the sector.

The sector needs those with creative and entrepreneurial talents who also have had the chance to develop real-world awareness, commercial know-how and know-who, self-efficacy and confidence to build successful new businesses and have an impact on existing ones. Our higher and further education institutions are in an unparalleled position to prepare students and are open to the challenge. All that is needed is a long term strategy, policy focus and investment to provide the incentives, motivation and clear direction for them to do so. Issues / Constraints A consultation process identified a number of key barriers that have prevented higher and further education from developing any long-term strategies for helping creative graduates to capitalise fully on their latent entrepreneurial talent despite the increased emphasis on the Creative Industries and the entrepreneurship agenda in recent years. In particular:

The lack of a coherent national policy framework that addresses entrepreneurship for the sector and the 46,000 graduates from the creative subjects annually has led to short-term, non-sustainable interventions with many existing programmes relying on short-term, external funding (eg European structural funds, Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) projects

and Regional Development Agency (RDA) funding) and lacking exit strategies for continuing support after funding ends.

A lack of understanding of what works. There is currently no real body of evidence or research that tells us what types of approaches to entrepreneurial learning work and in which contexts. In the absence of any specific guidance, institutions have been left to make their own decisions as to whether to introduce entrepreneurial learning opportunities, at what stage and of what type.

A lack of incentives for institutions to focus on this area. Current Further Education (FE) and Higher Education (HE) Policy and funding does not promote the development of ‘home- grown’ entrepreneurial talent and there is little recognition or encouragement for academic staff who engage in enterprise activity and who might become effective leaders and enterprise champions.

A lack of relevant, sustainable learning opportunities both within and outside degree programmes means that graduates leave university unprepared for the realities of self- employment and that those already employed find it difficult to supplement their skills and knowledge gaps with appropriate training.

Lack of a common terminology. In many cases, the language and words used by the sector, by educators and by Government are incompatible and inconsistently applied. The Government’s focus on ‘enterprise’ and ‘entrepreneurship’ lacks relevance for creative individuals whilst preferred terms such as ‘self-employed’ and ‘freelance’ can have pejorative connotations and do not carry the political weight needed to convince policy makers.

Tensions between creative expression and commercial realities whereby academic staff and students are uncomfortable with the perceived conflicts between creative freedom and real- world utility.

A lack of appropriate information, advice and guidance. Careers advisers in HE and colleges are not sufficiently ‘clued-up’ about careers in the creative sectors or entrepreneurship and often fail to promote or recognise the importance of self-employment as an option. h. In addition, there are a number of specific issues facing the FE sector that arise largely from their relationship with the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), however the sector does have a lot to offer in terms of close links with local communities and business.

The sector is one of the most highly educated with around 43% having degrees or higher level qualifications, significantly more in some sub-sectors, compared with 16% of the workforce as a whole How could the Local Development Framework respond For the Local Development Framework to take recognised that creative and entrepreneurialism as a key element of building the boroughs economy: Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides background information. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Planning Policy Guidance 4: Retail and Centres Industrial, commercial development and small firms

Table B6 Title Good Practice Guide for Tourism

Proponent body Department for Communities and Local Gov. Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced May 2006 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The planning system has a vital role to play in terms of facilitating the development and improvement of tourism in appropriate locations. This document is designed to: • ensure that planners understand the importance of tourism and take this fully into account when preparing development plans and taking planning decisions;

• ensure that those involved in the tourism industry understand the principles of national planning policy as they apply to tourism and how these can be applied when preparing individual planning applications;

• ensure that planners and the tourism industry work together effectively to facilitate, promote and deliver new tourism developments in a sustainable way. Key messages, requirements, objectives Tourism, in all its forms, is of crucial importance to the economic, social and environmental well-being of the whole country.

Tourism is defined by the World Tourism Organisation as:

“comprising the activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes”.

The World Tourism Organisation further explains that “Tourism” refers to all activities of visitors including both “tourists (overnight visitors)” and “same-day visitors”.

This definition has been adopted by the UK Government and the World Tourism Organisation definition of tourism is therefore used for the purposes of this guide.

At the same time, this guide recognises that tourism is extremely diverse. This definition can include travel and visits for business, professional and domestic purposes as well as for holidays and recreation. Opportunities Tourism generates significant revenues, provides millions of jobs, supports communities and helps maintain and improve important national assets.

It is the UK’s third largest foreign exchange earner after oil and vehicles – tourism accounts for over 4% of total exports.

In addition, central Government target to increase the value of tourism to £100bn by 2010.

The industry employs 2.2 million people – 7.7% of the UK workforce. Almost 80% of tourism jobs are located outside London and most tourism employment is located in 150,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Tourism generates a high percentage of new jobs. It is also the largest employer of people under the New Deal employment initiative. It also provides a valuable stepping stone for young people with little or no work experience or qualifications.

Tourism can bring many broader benefits that will contribute to the economic and social well being of local communities as well as to individuals. It can: • be the focus of regeneration of urban and rural areas, as has been demonstrated by its success in Birmingham and in many seaside resorts; • provide a catalyst for growth in an area, raising its profile and stabilising out migration; • provide opportunities for retraining for the resident workforce and help to diversify over-specialised economies; and

• help maintain and expand underused sports and recreation facilities in urban areas; and The revenue generated by tourism can help to: • support and enhance local services and facilities such as shops and pubs, particularly in rural areas; • secure the retention or upgrading of public services such as public transport, health centres and libraries; • support a broader and more vibrant and active community by attracting arts, sports or cultural events; • aid diversification within the rural economy; and • underpin the quality of the local environment and facilitate further enjoyment of it by residents and visitors.

Tourism depends heavily on the natural and built environment and can also be the key to maintaining and enhancing the environment: • The economic benefits of tourism in particular can help to sustain and improve both the natural and built physical environment. • Derelict land and buildings may be brought back into use and the countryside can be better maintained. • Visitors to historic buildings, archaeology and landscapes can provide income or voluntary efforts which help maintain and conserve such assets. • In rural areas the health of the environment and of the community depends on the viability of the local economy. So areas which attract visitors for their scenic beauty and which enjoy income from tourism will be better able to afford to sustain the local environment. • Proposals involving high quality design improve the visual and environmental experience for visitors and the local community alike.

The planning system, by taking a pro-active role in facilitating and promoting the implementation of good quality development, is crucial to ensuring that the tourism industry can develop and thrive, thereby maximising these valuable economic, social and environmental benefits. Issues / Constraints Environmental impact – this can have a large number of facets, such as visual and noise impact, impacts on an historic setting, impact upon biodiversity and upon landscape quality. Impacts may be positive, negative or a mix of both.

Transport and accessibility – travel is an inherent element of tourism. Whilst recognising that it is a principle of the planning system to seek to promote more sustainable transport choices, improve accessibility and reduce the need to travel, this may be particularly difficult for some types of tourism projects or for areas that are poorly served by public transport.

Functional links – whilst some forms of tourism may, in commercial terms, be able to be directed to a variety of locations (e.g. a hotel) others will be much more specific in their land use requirements (e.g. a visitor centre for a cathedral). How could the Local Development Framework respond

The example below gives an overview of how one local authority, the London Borough of Greenwich, has worked actively through the planning system to underpin the development of tourism in its area.

Their work included; • dedicating specific parts of the development plan to tourism and its promotion. This followed from consultation with the tourism sector including the World Heritage Site Steering Group; • consultation with stakeholders on planning applications and involvement with partners in the preparation of planning briefs; • preparing a hotel strategy that actively promoted sites to hotel operators and developers. This has led to two new hotels being built and increased visitor spend in the local economy; • lobbying with private sector partners for improvements in public transport. This has helped secure investment in light rail, underground and river transport services; • active engagement with small hoteliers and owners of bed and breakfast establishments to give advice on planning matters; • securing contributions to tourism initiatives through s106 agreements, and voluntary contributions for marketing; and • Working with developers and operators to secure local employment and business opportunities.

Implications for the sustainability appraisal Not a key document for broad appraisal. Provides background information. Cross references (General) Cross reference (Topic Reviews) • Economy and employment • Retail and centres • Open Space, Play, Sport and Recreation

Table B7 Title Tomorrow's Tourism Today Proponent body Department of Culture Media and Sport Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2004 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? Tomorrow's Tourism Today outlines plans for action and responsibilities for delivery for the DCMS and its key partners in five areas. These are the four joint priorities agreed by the DCMS and the tourism industry; marketing and e-tourism, quality, skills and data, plus a fifth priority for the DCMS – advocacy for tourism across Whitehall and the EU.

Tomorrow's Tourism Today, which had the working title of the Tourism Prospectus, is the result of consultation by the DCMS with its key partnership organisations; VisitBritain, the England Marketing Advisory Board (EMAB), the Tourism Alliance, the Local Government Association and the Regional Development Agencies. It also reflects comments from over 30 organisations and individuals who responded to a final round of general consultation.

The idea for Tomorrow's Tourism Today came from the series of Hartwell Conferences between the DCMS and the tourism industry. They were part of the process of tackling the downturn in tourism that followed the Foot and Mouth outbreak and the September 11th attacks in 2001.

The tourism reform agenda has led to significant changes in the structures that help support the tourism industry. Most notable are the creation of VisitBritain as a dynamic marketing organisation promoting Britain abroad and England domestically, and the passing of regional tourism strategy in England to the Regional Development Agencies. Tomorrow's Tourism Today gives a clear guide to agreed roles and responsibilities for a programme of partnership working to produce sustainable growth for the tourism industry.

This prospectus is not designed to deal with every issue relevant to the tourism industry. Although it builds on the strategy set out in 1999’s Tomorrow’s Tourism, it is closely focussed on delivering improvements in key areas. Key messages, requirements, objectives Key Message / Vision • to see successful businesses providing a rich variety of experiences for today’s discerning leisure and business tourists, and creating real economic and social benefits for the whole country in the process. • to see sustained and sustainable growth, with the industry and the public sector working more closely together in marketing Britain as a tourist destination at home and overseas. • to see the customer at the very heart of all progress and put businesses in a position to provide the very best products and services to the customer through effective and co-ordinated partnership work. • The Government, regional bodies, local authorities, the voluntary sector, and the industry itself are committed to meeting and exceeding the rising expectations of visitors, by: • working in closer partnership in marketing, and particularly in planning and resourcing our work to market the industry’s products in a more effective and co- ordinated manner; • ensuring continuous improvement in the quality of our tourism products;• investing more in developing the right skills; • helping businesses by providing more and better customer information, making it easier to access and book holidays and other services; • improving policy and business decisions with better data; • building tourism into national and regional economic development strategies, and making better use of scarce resources by increasing collaboration at national, regional and destination levels; • promoting closer collaboration between the public bodies which promote tourism, culture, heritage and sport;

• giving greater recognition and support to local authorities and other local organisations in supporting tourism; and

• fully recognising and exploiting the links between tourism and the cultural and sporting life of this country, by bringing events and programmes together into unified plans. Opportunities • Rural communities will receive specific focus • need to manage tourism carefully – not just to suit places for tourists, but to ensure that we do not destroy what attracts them in the first place, and that local communities benefit. • Tourism is already a key UK industry, with an annual turnover of £76 billion, or over 4% of GDP. 2.1 million people – over 7% of the working population – work in the sector. And the UK is 7th in the table of world tourism earners. • In quality, the industry is working to agree and implement common standards for all major accommodation grading schemes by the end of 2004/05, and significantly increase the present 43% rate of participation in such schemes by 2006. • In skills, DCMS and the wider tourism sector will support People1st in addressing skills shortages, and developing proposals for improving recruitment and retention. • the UK remains one of the most popular destinations for international leisure and business travellers. According to the World Tourism Organisation, we are seventh in the table of inbound world tourism earners.

The country can provide what today’s visitors are seeking:

• short breaks are a dynamic market, appealing to both domestic and international tourists; • there is great potential for further expansion in business tourism, bringing in significant numbers of high spending tourists who sustain the upper end of the accommodation sector, and businesses in conferencing and exhibitions; • English universities and language schools attract high numbers of overseas students; • interest in outdoor activities such as walking and cycling is increasing significantly, and we are well placed to capitalise on this; and • rural tourism continues to be significant, underpinning much of the economic activity of the most beautiful parts of the country. Issues / Constraints • The UK’s tourism “balance of payments” was £15 billion in the red in 2002. • Hundreds of millions of holidays are taken, and day-trips made, in this country every year. The businesses that serve those visitors make up an industry worth around £76 billion a year - about 4.4% of UK GDP. It is estimated that 2.1 million people, or 7.4% of our working population, work in the tourism industry (of whom, 1.8 million are estimated to be employed in England). • 86% of England’s tourism income comes from domestic visitors. Of the total of 194 million overnight stays taken in England in 2002, 135 million were made by domestic visitors. • Despite being ranked seventh for tourism globally we are competing in an ever more challenging market, and have dropped two places in the above table over the last three years. Both new destinations and new markets are rapidly emerging, the latter reflecting the increasing affluence and mobility of people in Eastern Europe and Asia. • In 2002, some calculations show that we spent as much as £15 billion more on travelling abroad than we earned from overseas visitors to this country – a deficit up from £2 billion in 1990. This is not just a matter of new, low cost flight connections. It has much to do with our own increasing affluence. People want to travel and have a far greater choice of destinations. Deficits in tourism can be reduced by attracting more overseas visitors however this will have impact on carbon emission • The growth area in the domestic market is in day trips and short breaks, often based around cultural pursuits, heritage attractions or shopping, or themed around attractions and hobbies. For overseas visitors, we are seeing growth in business tourism, and in visiting friends and relations. There is good evidence that these types of visits very often lead to repeat trips - business visitors often return to the UK for pleasure, and overseas students return to the haunts of their youth. • recognise that, while productivity in the tourism industry has improved over recent years, evidence suggests that it remains low – not only compared with other UK service sectors, but to the tourism industries of some of our key competitors. Given the assets we possess, the income we generate from tourism is not as great as it

could be. How could the Local Development Framework respond For the Local Development Framework to recognise the contribution tourism will play in growing the local economy. The development of tourism may also provide scope for wider development requirements in employment areas to meet the needs of business tourists. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Progress against delivery in the above key areas will be co-ordinated by the Tourism Review and Implementation Group (TRIG). (For monitoring framework) Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • Tourism Reform Programme • DCMS tourism prospectus,

Table B8 Title Measuring Sustainable Tourism at the Local Level Proponent body Department for Media, Culture and Sport Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2002 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework?

The purpose of this Guidance Note is to encourage the measurement of tourism impacts on local areas more broadly than in economic impact terms.

It is vital that, in addition to tourism economic impact indicators, objective measurements of environmental and social impacts are obtained as well.

All these benefits and impacts need to be considered together, to ensure that there is wise growth in tourism and that tourism development is more sustainable.

Key messages, requirements, objectives

Tourism growth is one of the greatest success stories of our times. However in recent years there has been a growing concern for; over-saturation and deterioration of some destinations, the overwhelming of some cultures, bottlenecks in transport facilities, and a growing resentment by residents in some destinations.

A good deal of Travel and Tourism activity relies on natural or cultural resources, so it is necessary to protect them for the future. Limits to; the number of visitors in one place at one time, the patience and welcome of our hosts, and the numbers who can visit natural resources must all be considered.

Opportunities 1) Economic • Generation of local wealth. • Diversification of fragile local economies. • Contributes to the development of local infrastructures. • Creates amenities for the benefit of residents which also will help attract other industries. • Generation of tax income. • Contribution to the generation of local goods and services.

2) Employment • Generation of employment requirements. • Employment in the tourism sector is becoming increasingly attractive as seasonality declines and minimum wage laws take effect. • Recognition that tourism provides additional part-time employment opportunities which opportunities are becoming increasingly attractive. • New developments in the tourism sector create local employment opportunities faster than in other sectors. • Tourism sector employment allows entry to employment opportunities at all levels of qualification and achievement.

3) Social • Encourages benefits of tourism amenities for residents. • Encourages local diversification through new local businesses and products. • Improving the quality of community life by widening choice and supply of local services. • Increases and diversifies social contacts. • Introduces the benefits of interaction between people of different cultural and supporting infrastructure.

4) Environment • Environment awareness encouragement of local people and business through

use of environment protection programmes. • Acting as a catalyst for the regeneration of redundant resources. • Supporting the maintenance and improvement of our natural and built heritage and ensuring its conservation for present and future use. • Better use of the built environment. • Providing economic incentive for investment in water quality, e.g. beaches, rivers, and canals.

Issues / Constraints 1) Economic • Tourism is volatile and can reflect quickly upturns and downturns in demand. • Much of the tourism product is seasonal. • Investment funds are harder to obtain for new tourism development projects in areas of high seasonality and/or peripherally. • Dysfunctional linkages between different businesses and tourism industries within the tourism sector, both public and private sectors. • A public and private perception that “tourism” is not a genuine or effective sector of the economy. • The existence of tourism “grey economy” outside of regulations and quality control.

2) Employment • Seasonality of tourism demand creates a preponderance of seasonal employment. • Need to establish better employment opportunities, e.g. full-time. • The quality of jobs in the tourism sector can compare badly with other sectors of the economy. • A greater mobility of labour is required by the tourism industry. • The need to invest in training to ensure that people have the skills to fill the jobs available.

3) Social Impacts • Competition for tourism accommodation versus resident accommodation negatively affecting first time buyers. • Second home ownership increases cost of housing for residents. • Competition by tourists for use of local amenities. • Traffic congestion. • Loss of open space to tourism developments and supporting infrastructure • Resident communities’ attitude to tourism. • Crime levels (whether by visitors upon host or host upon visitor). • Sense of place and local distinctiveness.

4) Environment • Traffic congestion resulting from tourist travel. • Loss of open space to tourism development and supporting infrastructure. • Litter and graffiti. • Energy consumption. • Air quality. • Water issues. • Crowding. • Low awareness of environmental schemes. • Lack of public awareness of their responsibility in tourism. • Sense of place and local distinctiveness.

How could the Local Development Framework respond The application of sustainable tourism policy thus involves:

• Definition of the sustainability themes that are important and desired standards of quality; • Monitoring indicator variables to determine whether existing conditions are within the bounds of desired change, or trends show that limits are being reached; • Undertaking agreed action when and where standards are about to be, or have

been violated.

Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides background information. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews)

Table B9 Title The National Statistics Review of Tourism Statistics Proponent body The Department for Culture, Media and Sport Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2004 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Department for Culture, Media and Sport published The National Statistics Review of Tourism Statistics on 28 June 2004.

A public sector group was formed to develop an implementation plan, as is required by National Statistics Quality Review procedures. This group met in July and September 2004, and following the outcome of 2004 Spending Review allocations, its conclusions were published (below) in the form of an Implementation Plan.

This review takes the UN-endorsed World Tourism Organisation (WTO) definition of tourism reproduced on the previous page of this report as given. It concentrates on statistics of tourism activity in the UK, by UK residents and others. It does not address in any detail UK residents’ tourism outside the UK. The review was conducted by an independent consultant working with a small team from DCMS and with a steering group representing a wide range of tourism interests and with extensive relevant experience. Key messages, requirements, objectives Methodology used is based the Tourism Satellite Account: Recommended Methodology Framework – published by the UN in 2001:

“Tourism comprises the activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes not related to the exercise of an activity remunerated fro within the place visited”

Tourism data and statistics represent key management information for tourism decision purposes, for overall national and regional policy formulation, targets and monitoring. They are required for use in:

• Economic evaluation of tourism and monitoring of trends within both the national and regional economy – now and looking ahead to Tourism Satellite Accounting options; • Planning -identifying the overall volume and forms of tourism to be supported and other forms to be discouraged through strategic and other planning guidelines for tourism; • Marketing -targeting segments, targeting products and themes, campaign plans and monitoring systems to record progress; • Sustainable development – meaning assessing tourism volume and value trends, product development trends and the use of indicators and benchmarks to monitor and guide progress on the environmental and social impacts of tourism; • Advocacy -the use of data for demonstrating the economic, social and environmental values of tourism, especially in debates in which tourism priorities are established in comparison with other obligations of government. Opportunities The importance of the sector is illustrated by its accounting for over 4 per cent of UK GDP.

Local users require statistics for their area, and sometimes for comparable areas, similar to those provided for larger areas by UKTS, LDVS, and IPS. However, there is no realistic prospect of those surveys having a sufficiently large sample to provide such statistics.

There view recommends addressing this need through • Local surveys with samples defined by those using particular accommodation on particular nights • Inclusion in household surveys interviewing in the locality of questions about friends and relatives staying • Inclusion in national or regional household surveys of questions about day visits.

Issues / Constraints Major gaps identified by users include:

• Good quality lists of accommodation providers and other tourism businesses • Frequent and timely statistics of day visitors • Frequent and timely indicators of short term market trends • More detailed statistics of tourist expenditure • More comprehensive and robust local statistics.

• The review also found that significant further resources need to be devoted to the main established surveys (and in particular the UK Tourism Survey (UKTS) and the Leisure Day Visits Survey (LDVS)) • The broader development of panel surveys, of the type conducted for example by some trade associations, offers an opportunity to gain timely indications of short term trends of the type which many users indicated they would find valuable. These would cover a wider range of data than can be collected from statistically selected samples of businesses, and would provide a valuable addition to the range of available statistics.

Other important issues raised by the review include the needs to: • Involve businesses and trade associations as partners in developing tourism statistics; • Coordinate data collection from businesses so that – as far as possible- one request and return can serve many uses;

Ensure that responsibility and accountability for statistical development is clearly allocated, and adequately resourced, in a manner which does not make the development of tourism statistics subsidiary to, or unduly influenced by, the wider objectives of the organisation(s) within which the relevant individuals work.

Five main surveys are used to assess the volume, value and nature of tourism at this level: • United Kingdom Tourism Survey (UKTS); • Leisure Day Visits Survey (LDVS); • International Passenger Survey (IPS) • United Kingdom Occupancy Survey (UKOS); and • Survey of Visits to Visitor Attractions (SVVA).

These surveys seek to collect much of the appropriate key data for: • Tourism monitoring; and the related issues of • Resource allocation to, and within, tourism; and • The planning, development, marketing and evaluation of tourism activities.

However, there are some gaps in their coverage, including: • Expenditure by those receiving visits from friends and relatives • Some aspects of business tourism • Business day trips qualifying as tourism. How could the Local Development Framework respond For the Local Development Framework to have regard to tourism statistics, particularly regarding planning, development, marketing and evaluation of tourism activities. Whilst tourism is an increasingly important element of the borough’s economy the Local Development Framework should seek to develop tourism facilities that can be reached through sustainable modes of transport. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Monitoring Framework: • United Kingdom Tourism Survey (UKTS); • Leisure Day Visits Survey (LDVS); • International Passenger Survey (IPS) • United Kingdom Occupancy Survey (UKOS); and • Survey of Visits to Visitor Attractions (SVVA). Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews)

Regional

Table C1 Title Moving Forward - The Northern Way Proponent body Yorkshire Forward, One North East and the Northwest Regional Development Agency Status (e.g. statutory, non- Non – statutory statutory) Date produced September 2004 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? In February 2004 the Deputy Prime Minister invited three northern Regional Development Agencies to demonstrate how the North could release the potential for growth. If the productivity and employment of the three northern regions matched the current UK average, the UK would be some £29 billion per annum better off. In response the Northern Way Steering Group identified a simple challenge - what should the North do differently to accelerate, significantly, the rate of growth of the North’s economy?

In September 2004 The Northern Way vision was published and set out a vision for the North of England by 2025. It seeks a region with a strong, knowledge-driven economy, with high educational attainment, and in-migration from elsewhere in the UK, as well as the rest of the world, by people attracted by the high quality of life. The key driver behind the Northern Way initiative is the need to achieve greater economic growth and reduce the productivity gap wit the rest of the UK. Key messages, requirements, objectives Key Message • Contribute to tackling the £29 billion gap between North and South regions • Market the North better in a global context. • More people need to be brought into employment. • Need to exploit the knowledge base. Opportunities The initial approach adopted has been to develop a Growth Strategy that builds on the proposals set out in the North’s three RESs and adds value. The Growth Strategy is governed by 4 guiding principles including:

• looks at the North as a whole to identify pan northern investments, which will add value to that which is being undertaken in each of the individual regions; • is based on how best to build on the North’s strengths, clearly defining what partners can do in the North and what Government must do to realise benefits from these assets; • complements the three Regional Economic Strategies, as these define - now and in the future - the key proposals to take forward economic development in the three regions of the North; • defines actions at the most appropriate scale - pan northern, regional, city regional, or more local. Issues / Constraints The northern regions have historically been out performed by the South of the country in particular London and the South East. In order to reduce the GVA output gap the following constraints will need to be addressed: • more people need to be brought into employment • north's knowledge base capacity is not meeting the projected needs • there is limited entrepreneurialism in the north • the regions require a larger share of global trade • employer skills requirements often identify a ‘skills gap’ • a lack of a northern airports plan and improve surface access to key northern airports • improved access required to the north's sea ports • city region access and linkages between city regions requires improvement. • Development of sustainable communities is limited. • limited marketing of the north within the global economy context. How could the Local Development Framework respond To have full regard to the Northern Way and ensure economic growth is a key issue absorbed in the spatial objectives of the Core Strategy. What should we do in response to these requirements, aims and objectives?

Implications for the sustainability appraisal Ensure appraisal framework has specific regard to economic growth in the borough.

Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Regional Economic Strategy for the North West 2006.

Table C2 Title North West Regional Economic Strategy Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2006 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Regional Economic Strategy (RES) published 2006 replaces the first strategy published in March 2003 by the North West Development Agency. The RES is the rolling 20 year strategy to shape the future economic direction of the Northwest with a particular focus on activities in the three years 2006 to 2009. The NWDA led the development of the strategy to ensure its ownership by everyone seeking to develop the economy. The collective effort of key partners is essential if the transformational of the economy is to be achieved. At the heart of the RES lies the concept of achieving sustainable development. The RES is of central importance to a range of other policies influencing, for example, housing, planning and transport policies via the Regional Housing, Spatial and Transport strategies. Key messages, requirements, objectives Regional • Productivity and enterprise levels are high, driven by innovation, leadership excellence and high skills; and carbon emissions are low. • Key growth assets are fully utilised, (Priority Sectors, the Higher Education and Science Base, Ports/Airports, Strategic Regional Sites, the Natural Environment especially the Lake District, and the Rural Economy.) • Employment rates are high and concentrations of low employment are eliminated. • Developing transport infrastructure to connect the region internally and with the rest of the world. Opportunities Manchester City Region • Manchester becomes a vibrant European city with peripheral centres becoming key drivers of city-regional growth • North’s greatest concentrations of high value activity in manufacturing, financial and professional services, media, creative and cultural industries. • Strong potential for growth in life sciences, ICT/digital and communications. • Manchester Airport’s role as the key international gateway to the North. • Highest performing research and teaching institutions outside the Golden Triangle. • Critical mass of cultural assets. • Regional Media Hub - the planned relocation of the BBC will establish its status as the premier broadcasting/ commissioning centre outside London. • Dynamic private sector in Manchester - recognised as the only UK city outside London in the top 20 European business locations. • Key business tourism destination.

Wigan • Realise and nurture the natural and built heritage assets such as Wigan Greenheart. • Demands on transport networks leads to congestion particularly at peak times. Develop innovative transport solutions to link people with jobs. Actions to reduce congestion will help encourage inward investment Issues / Constraints Regional Despite improvement the region is still not contributing its full potential to the UK economy.

The GVA per head of the Northwest is still 12% lower than the England average – resulting in an output gap of £13 billion.

Other key “gaps”

• 80,000 fewer people working. • 120,000 more people with no qualifications. • 80,000 fewer people with degree-level qualifications.

• 90,000 fewer people working in the “knowledge economy”. • 38,000 fewer companies.

Development of the regions transport infrastructure and strategic regional sites could have some negative impacts on natural resources and local environment conditions.

Manchester City Region

• High concentrations of economically inactive people. • High concentrations of those with low levels of qualifications. • Improving connections to and within the city-region including the expansion of Manchester Airport, improvements to the Manchester Rail Hub and Trans-Pennine Rail Network, and completion of the planned extensions of Metrolink. • Provision of the appropriate housing to support economic growth. • Ensure the high performance in the south of the city-region benefits the north. How could the Local Development Framework respond To have full regard to the role Wigan can play in strengthening the Manchester City Region position in delivering economic growth in the North West through a range of economic, environmental and social led schemes such as Green heart .

Both the Core Strategy and Allocations and Infrastructure DPD should identify the broad and site specific locations for economic/ employment development with potential for additional SPDs to be produced for leisure, tourism, development of sites for knowledge economy and master planning (i.e. mixed used) Implications for the sustainability appraisal To ensure that sustainable economic development forms part of the appraisal framework.

Potential Indicators for Monitoring Framework

• GVA Headline • GVA per Head • GVA per Hour Worked • GVA By Sector • Full-time/Part-time Jobs Created • Male/Female Jobs Created • Employment Rates • Employment Rates for Disadvantaged Groups • Self employment rates in deprived areas • Incapacity Benefit Claimants as a % of working age population • Income Support Claimants as a % of working age population • Sickness and Absence from work (hours lost) • Working age people with no qualifications • Working age people with Level 2 qualifications • Working age people with Level 3 qualifications • Economically active working age people with Level 4+ qualifications • Adults with basic skills needs • % of employers providing further training • Management and enterprise skills Regional • VAT Registrations and De-registrations • Stock of VAT-registered companies • Business Survival Rates • Number of exporters • Foreign Direct Investment R • Innovation Rates • R and D Spend (private and public) as a % of GVA • Energy Consumption • CO2 Emissions • Waste Levels • % of energy use from renewables • Previously Developed Land Regional • English Index of Multiple Deprivation • Housing Affordability

• Number of districts where house prices are substantially lower than Sub-regional • Average (Median) Wage Levels • Household Incomes (average, and households below average) Regional • Number of DEFRA "Lagging Districts" • Mean taxpayer income earned by rural district • Population and population structure • Net In-Migration • Net In-Migration, By Broad Age Group • Public transport usage • Congestion Regional • ICT usage and take-up • Crime Rates R • Number of major events, and their economic impact • International and domestic visitor numbers • Tourism Expenditure Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • Moving Forward – the Northern What other topic papers areas may this document Way effect? Click here and see where else the • Regional Spatial Strategy for the document can be reviewed. North West • Greater Manchester Economic Housing Strategy 2004/05 – 2006/07 • Wigan Economic Development Plan

Table C3 Title The North West Employment Land Study Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2006 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? Published in April 2005 the study was commissioned by the North West Regional Assembly commissioned Arup with Donaldsons. The project forms a key part of the evidence base for the preparation of the Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) for the North West. The purpose of this study is to provide an up-to-date, accurate and robust assessment of the quantity and quality of existing employment land (over 5 hectares) in the North West, and the extent to which this land can meet projected future demand for the period to 2021. The provision of employment land is a crucial issue for the future economic and spatial development of the North West region.

Key messages, requirements, objectives The commission has two main objectives and associated outputs: a) Phase 1 and 2: assessment of the quality and quantity of existing employment sites; and b) Phase 3: appraisal of how the provision of employment land could meet employment land requirements, up to 2021, based on employment forecasts.

Quantity of Employment for the North West There is a total of 5,795.70 hectares of committed employment land in the North West. This land is distributed across the sub-regions as follows:

• Cheshire and Warrington: 1,491.24 hectares; • Cumbria: 633.4 hectares. • Greater Manchester: 1,367.98 hectares; • Lancashire: 1,068.58 hectares; • Merseyside and Halton: 1,234.49 hectares;

There are a total of 257 sites of 5 hectares or more in area in the North West. These account for a total of 4,488 hectares employment land. General employment uses (i.e. allocated for an unspecified mix of B1, B2 and B8 uses) account for 71.1% (2,882 hectares) of the total area. Of the region’s 257 employment sites which are over 5 hectares, 168 are allocated in adopted development plans and a further 50 are allocated in draft development plan documents. Other sites are unallocated but benefit from extant planning permission. Across the North West, 65 employment sites of 5 hectares or more are considered to be readily available (i.e. able to be developed immediately for their appropriate employment use). These 65 sites represent a total of 885.5 hectares.

Opportunities The Greater Manchester Sub Region • Greater Manchester has the largest combined area for B1 sites over 5 hectares in the North West (236 hectares). • Nearly one quarter of the sub-region’s larger employment sites have the benefit of full planning permission. • A total of 23 sites in the sub-region are either readily available for employment use or are considered to be available within the next three years. • Greater Manchester has the highest combined area for B1 sites amongst North West sub-regions with an area of 235.9 ha. • A total of 32 sites are allocated in adopted development plans and ten are in draft development plans. Only one site in the sub-region is committed and seven are unknown in terms of development plan allocation. • Nearly one quarter (12) of the Greater Manchester sub-region’s employment sites have the benefit of full planning permission and an additional seven have outline

consent. Twenty are either the subject of current planning applications or are the subject of discussions and only 11 remain allocated with no moves towards planning permission. • A total of nine employment sites in the Greater Manchester sub-region are considered to be available, fully serviced and actively marketed. A further fourteen are considered likely to be available within the next 3 years; i.e. preparation commenced, or preparation programmed with funding in place. Fourteen sites are not likely to be developed within the next 3 years, or site preparation is required. One site is not generally available, is reserved for a specific business/user or has an unwilling seller. The status of the remaining sites is unknown.

Market Deliverability: Quality, viability and constraints • There is a relatively even distribution of employment sites across Greater Manchester. • The highest ranking sites in Greater Manchester, in terms of availability and deliverability include two Strategic Regional Sites: Ashton Moss and Kingsway Business Park. In terms of planning policy/sustainability rankings, the top ten ranked sites are all located in Manchester and Salford. • Over half the sites in Greater Manchester will be available within the next three years. • The market interest in Greater Manchester is high compared to the other sub- regions and the region average. The average score of sites in Greater Manchester is 2.86, which is the highest scoring sub-region. The majority of sites fall within the higher and middle thirds. • The ownership of committed employment sites in the sub-region is ranked highly, culminating in an overall score of 4.02 across the ten Districts. Ten of the 50 sites are owned by Local Authorities / Other Public Bodies, whilst several, particularly in Wigan, are in mixed ownership. • The current supply of employment sites is about average for the region. The regional average score is 2.83 and average score of sites in Greater Manchester is 2.84. The majority of sites fall within a moderate to low supply. • Vacant floorspace in Greater Manchester is below average for the region. The regional average score is 3.26, compared to the Greater Manchester average score of 3.14. Nearly all sites fall within the moderate to low category. • Topographical issues do not represent a significant constraint for the vast majority of employment sites in the sub-region, as a high score of 4.20 overall indicates. • Broadband internet is available throughout the sub-region, leading to a maximum score in this category of 5.00. • The RPG Spatial Development Framework states that a significant proportion of development and urban renaissance resources of the region should be focussed on the North West Metropolitan Area, which includes the ten unitary authorities of Greater Manchester. Consequently, the sub-region scores maximum points in this indicator. • Public transport accessibility is good for the Greater Manchester sub-region; its overall rating of 3.68 is the highest in the North West, and indicates the close proximity of many of the sites to the major rail and bus interchanges in the region. • Ready access to a Motorway: the vast majority of Greater Manchester’s centres of employment are located close beside a motorway, with 42 of the 50 sites within 10 minutes drive of a motorway junction. This has resulted in an overall average score of 4.04, the highest sub-regional average in the region. • The Density of the Economically Active Population in the sub-region is very high, with an overall score of 4.82 representing the highest average score for any of the sub-regions in the North West. All ten of the Greater Manchester Districts are ranked in the top fifteen highest densities in the region, with Rochdale the lowest at 5.89 economically active people per hectare, to Manchester City, at 13.76 economically active people per hectare (the second highest in the region behind Blackpool). • The amount of Previously Developed Land used for committed employment sites in Greater Manchester is also the second highest in the region, resulting in a high overall score of 3.66 compared to a regional average of 3.35. Twenty nine sites out of 50 in Greater Manchester would be constructed wholly on previously developed land. • Flood Risk of employment sites in Greater Manchester is the second lowest in the region, resulting in an overall score of 4.34. Only eight sites are at risk of flooding (1 in 100 years or greater), whilst 37 sites have no flood risk at all. • No significant Environmental Constraints were identified at any of the employment sites analysed in Greater Manchester, resulting in an overall score of 4.76. • Priority Regeneration Designations in Greater Manchester focus around Objective

2 funding, transitional areas, assisted areas, and Enterprise Grant areas, which cover large parts of the sub-region, particularly around Wigan, Trafford, Tameside, Salford, Oldham, Manchester and Bolton. Only Stockport’s employment sites are not covered by any of these economic assistance designations. This has resulted in Greater Manchester scoring 3.42 in this category, the second highest in the region. • The majority of employment sites are likely to qualify for Gap Funding, and an overall score of 3.79 has resulted. Issues / Constraints • Three of the sub-region’s employment sites are located in the Green Belt or have other major policy constraints, two of them are designated as protected open space and only one site has a local designation which may affect its development. The majority, 39 sites, are not constrained by land use policies. • There is no clear geographical distribution of sites by overall policy and sustainability criteria across the Great Manchester sub-region. • Local rents are some of the highest in the region. In a regional context the average score is 3.24, which is 0.54 higher than the regional average; this score is 3.26 in a sub-regional context. Nearly all sites are ranked within the higher and middle thirds. • Contaminated land is an issue for many of the employment sites in Greater Manchester, as the overall score of 3.70 is one of the worst in the region. Around 54% of the land is previously developed, which is likely to have an effect on the overall scoring in this category. • Utilities and highways constraints are a problem for certain sites in Greater Manchester, although the overall score of 3.68 closely mirrors the regional average for such constraints. • The Internal Environment of the employment sites are generally of a moderate quality, with an aggregate score of 3.90. • Compliance with key principles and objectives of RES: Of the 12 key objectives, the sites on average comply with around six of the key objectives, resulting in Greater Manchester achieving a moderate overall score of 2.98. • There are several designated Strategic Regional Sites / Regional Investment Sites in Greater Manchester: North Manchester Business Park in Manchester, Kingsway in Rochdale, Barton in Salford, Ashton Moss in Tameside, Davenport Green, and Carrington in Trafford have over five ha remaining for employment use • Pedestrian / Cyclist access to the employment sites has been estimated to be fairly average, resulting in an overall score of 3.08, slightly higher than the regional average of 2.89. Just two sites have no existing or proposed pedestrian / cycle routes nearby. • Congestion on the surrounding road network to the employment sites is slightly lower than the regional average (scoring 3.00 compared to 3.47 for sites in the North West as a whole). Eleven of the 50 employment sites have either high or very high congestion on the surrounding network, located in either Wigan, Stockport, Rochdale or Salford. • Easy and Appropriate HGV Access (for B2/B8 sites only) is not generally a problem for most of the employment sites in the sub-region, with an overall score of 4.10 resulting. Only two sites, both in Wigan, have identified several HGV restrictions to the sites. • Proximity to Rail, Sea and Air Freight (for B2/B8 sites only): The Greater Manchester employment sites score moderately in this category, with an overall score of 2.98 being below the regional average of 3.47. The sites to the north and east of the sub-region in Bury, Rochdale, Oldham and Bolton score relatively poorly, due to the increased distance away from the ports and Manchester Airport. • Unemployment levels vary somewhat across the sub-region, from Stockport’s low figure of 2.47%, to Manchester’s of 5.02%, the third highest in the region. This results in an overall score of 3.00, which is a slightly lower score than the regional average. • The patterns of Deprivation in Greater Manchester’s local communities mirror the trends set in the previous indicator. There is a wide disparity between relatively low deprivation in Stockport(ranked in the 50% least deprived District in England), to Manchester (ranked second most deprived District in England in the rank of average scores domain) • Potential Pressures for Non-Employment Uses could possibly affect just 13 of the 50 sites, with those in Salford and Stockport under most strain. This has resulted in an overall score of 4.16in this category, the highest in the region.

• Availability and Deliverability Rankings Regarding the lowest ranking category,

five of Bolton’s seven sites are ranked in this lower third, along with four of Trafford’s. East of Leigh Road in Wigan is the lowest scoring site in this category, with an overall score of 2.62. • Planning Policy / Sustainability Rankings In terms of the planning policy and sustainability criteria, a high number of sites in the top third are unavailable in the sort to medium term; 12 of the 17 sites in this category are likely to be unavailable within the next three years. The highest ranking site in the sub-region is in Manchester, Queens Road Tip, at 4.44. Of the top ten ranking sites, all are in either Manchester or Salford. Of the lowest ranking third, this includes five of Rochdale’s sites, five of Wigan’s, and all of Stockport’s. The lowest scoring site in this category is Hareshill Road in Heywood, Rochdale, which scored 3.17. How could the Local Development Framework respond Prepare Employment land Review for Wigan borough and include more detailed employment land demand projections, whilst assessing existing employment land and premises. The framework will then need to explore options for the appropriate locations for development that meets the needs of local communities and inward investors. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides background information. Useful for: Establishing the baseline position. Stages of the appraisal that require further detail. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • Demand for Employment Land in Greater Manchester Study • The Manchester City region Knowledge Economy Report

Table C4 Title North West Ports Economic Trends and Land Use Study Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The study provides an overview of the North West economy to establish the impact this will have on the region’s ports The first thing to note, however, is that the performance of the region’s economy is only one factor influencing the performance of its ports and wider economic and transport issues. The region’s ports have a range of economic benefits, as well as various disbenefits – these are set out below. Key messages, requirements, objectives Key implications of the region’s performance and prospects are:

• The continuing shift from manufacturing activity to the service sector across the North West is expected to reduce both the imports of raw materials and exports of manufactured goods to and from the region’s manufacturers. • The gradual improvement in the region’s prosperity together with the reduction in UK’s manufactured output will lead to an increase in the import of manufactured consumer goods from elsewhere in the world. Some of this increase in imports will come through the region’s ports, but also through the South East ports. • The prospects of some specific sectors may have a significant impact upon particular ports where there is a heavy dependence upon the activities of these sectors. This dependence is far more likely to exist where the ports are relatively small in terms of their total volume of freight. An example might be the run down of the BNFL Sellafield site, which may have implications for the Port of Barrow. Opportunities Support of businesses and employment in a range of activities which are directly related to the operation of the port. In addition, a wider range of business activities (and hence employment) which support the operation of the ports (e.g. logistics, maritime commerce, etc) and which form part of the wider maritime cluster.

The efficient import and export of raw materials and finished goods by firms located within and outwith the region. In some instances firms engaged in added value activity, typically manufacturing, may choose to locate in close proximity to the port.

Provision of national and international connectivity and hence support of trading links between countries – this provides the basis for the import and export of bulks and other inputs and finished goods and is an important aspect of the UK and the region’s competitiveness. Some ports play a particularly important role in the activities of some sectors (e.g. Barrow in Cumbria and its role in the transport of nuclear materials from Sellafield)

Multimodal access to markets, which supports the supply chain between industries. This can play an important role in reducing the use of road transport, congestion and the associated costs

Connectivity for the movement of people between parts of the UK and internationally; this is an important aspect of the region’s tourism industry. Although travelling by ship is typically less time efficient than travelling by car or air, it has a lesser environmental impact.

Attraction of inward investment – the availability of ports can have an impact on foreign firms’ investment decision

Support for leisure cruising and related tourism activity. Issues / Constraints Range of environmental disbenefits from the operation of ports, including discharges and

emissions from cargo handling, noise pollution, etc – ports are often in close proximity to residential communities

Congestion and pollution on road access routes (although the use of ports can reduce total overall mileage)

A number of issues that could have an indirect impact:

• The region’s core cities have experienced strong employment growth in recent years and this has led to an increased take-up of employment land. In some parts of the region (e.g. land adjacent to the Manchester Ship Canal) this has led to competing demands for land which might previously have been freely available for port uses. • There will be significant changes in the patterns of economic activity by sector over the next couple of decades, releasing yet more previously developed land and changing the spatial and site-specific pattern of property demand. Some of this land may be in the immediate proximity to the region’s ports and provide scope for re-use for port related activities - a continuation of a trend which has been occurring in some locations, such as the Port of Liverpool, for a number of years. • The growth in higher-level skills in the workforce will tend to lead to longer commuting patterns and use of the car (other things being equal). This could contribute to increased congestion, although its impact on the access to the region’s ports might be limited. • Growing incomes, increased leisure activity and the popularity of waterfront locations has led to the development or proposals for mixed use development schemes on former port land. This trend is likely to continue especially where port land is freed up in the main urban areas (and hence demand for other uses is strong) How could the Local Development Framework respond For the framework to explore options in terms of how port expansion and transport of freight may affect the borough in terms of employment in logistics, manufacturing and administration sectors, transport impact etc and determine Wigan’s role in this sector. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed / specific background information. May be useful for appraisal of more detailed plans.

Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Regional Economic Strategy

Sub Regional

Table D1 Title Greater Manchester Economic Development Plan 2004/05 – 2006/07

Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Economic Development Plan provides a framework to connect and deliver national, regional and local priorities within Greater Manchester. The Plan is influenced by national strategies and policy frameworks covering competitiveness, skills, urban renaissance and sustainable communities. It also reflects the Government’s Neighbourhood Renewal and Welfare to Work agendas, and will help deliver against the national Public Service Agreement (PSA) floor targets and other targets within the Regional Economic Strategy as well as responding to the existing Greater Manchester Strategy. Key messages, requirements, objectives A key priority in developing the Plan has been to review other sub-regional strategies and plans, streamlining and rationalising these where possible. The analysis has also identified linked policy areas which impact on economic growth, such as transport, tourism, health, crime, education and statutory planning and land use which are considered in the Greater Manchester Strategy rather than in this Plan Opportunities • Regional Centre – The core of the conurbation forms the strongest Regional Centre in the UK, employing around 160,000 people, and is the largest and fastest growing employment area in the North West. • World class universities – A world class HEI cluster, including the largest university in the UK, with the merger of Manchester University and UMIST, will help to ensure that Manchester: Knowledge Capital has the potential to drive forward the economic performance of the North West as a whole. • Knowledge economy – Nearly 700,000 people are employed within Manchester: Knowledge Capital’s priority sectors, with particularly strong concentrations in the conurbation core. • Strong financial and professional services sector – Manchester is the largest and fastest growing centre for financial, professional and legal services outside of London. The conurbation has achieved both high levels of inward investment in shared service centres while also attracting major legal, insurance and investment businesses. • Health – The health and medical research sector provides a link between the internationally renowned academic facilities within the University of Manchester and major health services, research and teaching facilities at the core of the conurbation. The sector is also a major employer, with around 120,000 staff across Greater Manchester, a budget of £3 billion in 2005 and a major purchaser of goods and services. With investments including the new UK biobank, and bio-incubator, research networks across the conurbation on genomics and commercial links with AstraZeneca and GSK, the area is well placed to become the national leader in biomedical innovation. • Science base – The broader city-region has a significant physics and chemical research and commercial base, with major academic research capacity in material sciences in Manchester and Salford, advanced light source research in Cheshire and one of the largest private sector research and development programmes in Cheshire and extending into Merseyside. • Cultural, sporting and visitor infrastructure – The BBC and Granada in central Manchester form the hub of a growing media sector that is second only to London in size and significance. Major sporting, conference, exhibition and concert venues alongside significant arts, museums and visitor attractions have established Manchester as the second most visited city outside London. • Connectivity – Manchester Airport is a key asset for the conurbation, the nation’s third largest airport with the potential to become a truly international hub. Aside from the Airport, the conurbation has an orbital motorway; sits on the West Coast Main Line for national and international freight and passenger rail connections into London

and Scotland; the trans-Pennine motorway and railway linkages underpinning the North European Trade Axis running from the Mersey to the Humber ports; the largest heavy rail network outside of London; and the UK’s most successful light rail system in the Metrolink network. Greater Manchester is also the second most important hub for broadband infrastructure in the UK, with the UK’s only international internet exchange outside of London. • People and Place – The area has a strong reputation for innovation and entrepreneurship, with strong civic leadership alongside to harness the creativity that exists. Greater Manchester now enjoys an image of a modern, creative, and multicultural city-region. The combination of cultural and sport assets, affordable housing, and economic opportunities offer the high quality of life needed to make Greater Manchester a leading place to live and work. Issues / Constraints • Skills – There is a need to strengthen the resident skill-base for those in work and those seeking employment or changing career if we are to achieve the full economic and social potential of Greater Manchester as a major force in the global knowledge economy. Employers need to be actively engaged in training their own employees alongside initiatives to attract and retain talent including graduates, getting them into key occupations to grow the area’s population and to strengthen the local skills base. We need to train far more young people in critical skill priority occupations at NVQ levels 2, 3 and 4. • Increasing value added – Although employment in manufacturing has declined across the conurbation, GVA in the sector has not decreased over the last five years showing that labour productivity within the sector has been improving. The challenge remains to assist businesses outside existing growth hot spots to move up the value chain, exploiting high-level skills and new technology to become more competitive in global markets. Additionally, new firm formation and sustainability of companies are below national levels and half the rate in London so more effective support for new businesses is essential. • Spreading the benefits – Taking action to grow the knowledge economy across the whole of Greater Manchester will help to reduce the polarisation that currently exists across the conurbation. A key part of this will be to integrate better the skills, employment, business development, transport, regeneration, health and environment agendas; particularly programmes which occur in similar areas of activity but are driven by different authorities/agencies/funding lines. The transport infrastructure, while a major asset, also presents significant challenges for the future because of congestion, fragmented local public transport, under-investment in the rail network and funding for the Metrolink expansion. Better connections will be required to help bring people and job opportunities closer together. • Increasing participation in work – Greater Manchester has a significant legacy of people who are inactive in the labour market, often concentrated in small areas and when combined with other social and economic problems, giving rise to some of the most deprived areas in the country. Youth unemployment is a particular issue, with the proportion of 16-24 year olds amongst Greater Manchester’s unemployed increasing faster than the regional or national averages between 1996 and 2004. Ensuring that young people can participate in the economic and social development of Greater Manchester will be a particular feature of the Economic Development Plan. How could the Local Development Framework respond • For the Core Strategy to the key opportunities such as health, provision of cultural sporting and visitor infrastructure, connectivity and people and places etc. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides background information. Appraisal framework should reflect the key issues. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • Moving Forward – the Northern Way • Regional Spatial Strategy for the North West • Greater Manchester City Region Development Plan • Greater Manchester City Strategy • Greater Manchester Skills Priorities 2006 • City Region Development Plan 2005 • Wigan Economic Development Plan

Table D2 Title Greater Manchester City Region Development Programme Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? This City Region Development Programme has been developed within the context of a number of plans and strategies, including the Northern Way, and in parallel with the revision of the North West Regional Economic Strategy, Regional Spatial Strategy, Regional Transport Strategy, Regional Housing Strategy and the Regional Sustainable Development Framework which underpins each of these strategies. Key messages, requirements, objectives The vision, set out in the Greater Manchester Strategy, has been adopted for the wider city region and states that by 2025 the Manchester city region will be:

“A world class city-region at the heart of a thriving North” Opportunities • Opportunities for accelerated economic growth

The plans vision includes:

• One of Europe’s premier city regions, at the forefront of the knowledge economy, and with outstanding commercial, cultural and creative activities; • World class, successfully competing internationally for investment, jobs and visitors; • An area where all people have the opportunity to participate in, and benefit from, the investment and development of their city; • An area known for, and distinguished by, the quality of life enjoyed by its residents; and • An area with GVA levels to match those of London and the South East.

Issues / Constraints • £29 billion output gap between North and the rest of the UK. • Current performance of the city regions, including the best performing ones such as Manchester and Leeds, is still not sufficient to drive the economy of the North at a pace fast enough to bridge the output gap. • The Manchester city region is not a homogenous area but a diverse mix of high value and performing economic centres adjacent to some of the most deprived communities in the country. • despite falling unemployment the city region has disproportionate numbers of people that are economically inactive and excluded from mainstream employment support services. • there are many groups who are not currently participating in the labour market because of skills and employment barriers, whilst a large number of vacancies remain unfilled across the conurbation. • the majority of wards across Greater Manchester have a lower share of high level qualifications, falling to below half the national average across large parts of the conurbation. • almost a fifth (17%) of the city region’s working age population have no qualifications at all and the Learning and Skills Council estimates that 420,000 people in Greater Manchester and 100,000 people in Cheshire need to improve their basic skills in reading, writing and numeracy. • the full potential of the rail network being under-utilised due to a lack of rolling stock and limited track and signalling capacity; the frequency, reliability, coverage and integration of bus services being insufficient for them to be seen by many people as a genuine alternative to the car; poor public transport serving many parts of the most deprived and rural communities meaning many residents find it difficult to access jobs outside their immediate neighbourhood.

How could the Local Development Framework respond • What should we do in response to these requirements, aims and objectives? • How could we respond to opportunities, issues and constraints? • What themes or objectives should be included in the Local Development Framework

and identify which documents it should be applied to (i.e. Core Strategy, Wigan Central AAP) Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed background information. May be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • Moving Forward – the Northern Way Housing • Regional Spatial Strategy for the North West • Greater Manchester Economic Development Plan 2004/05 – 2006/07 • Greater Manchester City Strategy • Greater Manchester Skills Priorities 2006 • City Region Development Plan 2005 • Wigan Economic Development Plan

Table D3 Title Greater Manchester Learning and Skills Priorities Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2007 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The purpose of this document is to draw on recent research carried out by Manchester Enterprises (ME) and others in order to identify the main learning and skills priorities for Greater Manchester (GM) and the wider Manchester City Region (MCR)i. It is produced as a basis for action by the LSC, Jobcentre Plus, NWDA, Manchester Enterprises, education and training providers, employers and others, over the next 12 months and beyond. Indeed, the document will be used by the GM LSC to inform their 2007/08 Annual Plan. The document builds on similar statements of GM learning and skills priorities produced by ME on behalf of the GM Forum in 2005 and 2006.

The report is primarily economic in focus and therefore concentrates on more immediate occupational and vocational skills issues, with a strong sectoral emphasis. However, it also notes the important issues which GM faces in terms of the basic and generic skills of the adult workforce and the need to ensure that young people are as well-prepared as possible for the transition to employment. For this reason, the document will also be used as the basis for dissemination of labour market information to those advising young people and adults about careers and learning options. Key messages, requirements, objectives ƒ Continuing to encourage and support employers to identify and address the current and future skills requirements of their workforces, as a key contributor to business and broader economic development. ƒ Making the most effective use of Train to Gain (formerly the Employer Training Pilot), with the associated brokerage network, and the Level 3 Trial, to address GM skills issues. ƒ Matching other skills provision (including Centres of Vocational Excellence and Skills Academies) more closely to the needs of the economy, especially at Levels 3 and 4 ƒ Prioritising on a needs basis with the HE and FE sectors the development of Foundation Degrees (part and full-time) for occupations with the highest priority. ƒ Reprioritising current mainstream LSC resource for Level 3 qualifications from non- vocational to vocational provision and increasing provision for the 19+ age group, particularly in the City Region’s accelerator sectors (as set out in the Manchester City Region Development Programme 2006); ƒ Increasing adult provision for career changers, including those at risk of redundancy from declining manufacturing industries (including provision accessible whilst employees are still in work – evening/weekends – to limit risk of unemployment); ƒ Reviewing the mode and mix of provision relating to specific sectors and occupations to ensure it is better geared to employer needs; • Developing arrangements to better track progression from FE courses to ensure that scarce training resources are used as effectively as possible to meet the needs of the economy; and ƒ Raising motivation and aspiration of young people and adults so that they feel empowered to access new job opportunities. Opportunities Young People: • Continuing to improve educational attainment levels • Increasing the numbers qualifying in Maths, Sciences and Foreign Languages • Addressing gender stereotyping at all levels • Improving Skills for Life, first steps learning and generic employability skills • Developing enterprise and entrepreneurial skills • Helping young people to fulfil their potential and make a successful transition to work through more and better vocational experiences from an earlier age, and through better careers education and guidance • Capitalising on the planned expansion of Apprenticeships in order to address the needs of the local economy; • Enabling more young people (including graduates) to progress into Level 3/4 occupations • Retaining in the sub-region more of the GM universities’ graduates • Engaging more effectively with employers to support this agenda Adults:

• Continuing to promote and drive the achievement of generic employability skills, Skills for Life qualifications, and first steps learning experiences; • Enabling more of the economically inactive (including the over 50s) to play a part in the GM economy; • Developing enterprise and entrepreneurial skills (including for the over 50s); • Targeting such activity (e.g. in relation to Incapacity Benefit claimants) on concentrations of greatest incidence; • Helping people to develop transferable and new skills to take up jobs in skills shortage areas; • Introducing a Career Changers Level 2/3 Programme to enable employed people to move into skills shortage occupations; and • Building on the Leitch Report recommendations and associated Government decisions to develop stronger labour market information and adult careers advice and guidance arrangements to underpin a more demand-driven approach to the funding of adult education and training. Occupational/Sectoral Priorities The immediate sectoral priorities, based on an analysis of future skills demand against current LSC-funded supply and consultation with key partners are: • Increasing provision for: o Some Financial and Professional Services occupations, especially credit controllers and call centre agents and operators o Retail and Wholesale Managers o Chefs • Reducing and refocusing provision for: o General media studies o Plumbers o Motor mechanics, auto engineers o Vehicle body builders and repairers, spray painters o Artists, actors and entertainers, dancers, musicians o Product, clothing and related designers o Nursery nurses, playgroup leaders and assistants, childminders and related occupations o Hairdressers, barbers o Beauticians and related occupations • Introducing more (sectorally tailored) general business skills training for micro businesses in sectors such as ICT Digital / Communications and Creative / Digital / New Media; • Reviewing LSC funding eligibility rules to consider funding some qualifications currently excluded in GM which are highly relevant to important occupations and which, in some cases, are funded in other LSC areas; and • The LSC, ME and other partners to review in greater detail the supply and demand for the closely related areas of Sport, Health and Leisure, where there is an apparent oversupply and where Government aspirations re the Olympics and Health/Obesity agendas are in danger of fuelling unfocussed growth.

Issues / Constraints Main GM educational / young people skills issues • Overall participation and attainment levels are improving but from a baseline below national averages; • Weak performance in English, Maths and Science at Key Stage 4; • Nearly half of young people in GM leave school without Level 2 or equivalent qualification; • Employer concerns about young people being poorly prepared for work, with poor generic and employability skills; • One tenth of 16-18 year olds within Greater Manchester are not in Employment, Education or Training, and pockets of high youth unemployment; • Low levels of progression into traditional higher education in the conurbation core; • Scope for greater retention within the sub-region of graduates from local universities; and • Occupational gender stereotyping. Main GM workforce skills issues • Population profile ageing; • Estimated 420,000 residents with poor literacy and numeracy; • Over a fifth of adult population with no qualifications; High levels of worklessness;

• Concentration of low skills and worklessness in particular areas/wards; • Growing mismatch between the sub-regional qualifications base and the future requirements of the sub-regional economy; • Many graduates under-employed in Level 1/2 occupations; • Increasing requirements for generic skills such as communication, dealing with numbers, using computers, working in teams, planning etc. at all levels of employment; • Labour shortages, where increased demand for people in unskilled and semi-skilled occupations cannot be met by the supply of people, e.g. because of lack of generic skills; • Under representation of ethnic minorities in Work Based Learning; and • Continued pockets of serious disadvantage, social exclusion, and low activity rates affecting geographical areas and specific groups, including ethnic minorities and the emergence of the underachieving young white male “underclass” How could the Local Development Framework respond To ensure that options for employment land and premises are informed by the need to match jobs with local community needs. Implications for the sustainability appraisal

Provides detailed background information. May be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • Moving Forward – the Northern Way Education and learning • Regional Spatial Strategy for the North West • Greater Manchester Economic Development Plan 2004/05 – 2006/07 • Greater Manchester City Strategy • City Region Development Plan 2005 • Wigan Economic Development Plan

Table D4 Title Demand for Employment Land in Greater Manchester Study Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced (May 2006) Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The study was commissioned to:

• Determine the spatial implications of employment forecast for Greater Manchester • Determine the location requirements of market sectors • Provide a geographical representation of Sector demand

The Oxford Economic Forecast model was used as base information source for projected employment growth data. Spatial implications were considered under both reference and optimistic (which assumed an additional 2.8% growth in Gross Value Added) scenarios. The projected employment growth within each business sector was translated into floor space and then land uses extrapolated under: Office (B1); Manufacturing (B2) and Distribution (B8). In order to cross check these assumptions a comparison was made with the land take that had been evident historically for each land use. This data was extract from the NW Employment Land Study (2005). It was noted that caution was needed to be applied to the comparison because historical data was a gross figure that included supporting infrastructure (e.g. amenity space, access roads) whereas the projections derived from employment growth, were net figures. Key messages, requirements, objectives Supply of industrial and distribution accommodation is somewhat constrained in southern and eastern parts of the sub-region. The majority of new accommodation in these areas is coming through redevelopment of traditional industrial and distribution locations dotted around the M60 such as Trafford Park and Stone Cross Park in Wigan

Employment projections identify that Greater Manchester North (Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Oldham and Wigan) is predicted to grow between 1% and 5% and Greater Manchester South by 11% and 18%.

Wigan has one of the lowest vacancy rates in the sub region at 7.67% (2003/2004)

On average over the last few years, the greatest volume of employment land has come forward in Wigan (25 hectares), with the lowest in Bury (3 hectares) Opportunities Churn of employment sites driven by the demand for residential development, has led to increased demand in what were previously considered to be secondary locations such as Wigan, Bury and Rochdale where land and premises remain more cost effective. In addition, the completion of the M60 has led to a pattern of increased dispersal in this sector. Increasing evidence for demand in Wigan (where the West Coast Main Line, M6 and other major roads converge); for Finance, professional ICT Digital services

There are existing high concentrations of logistics business in Wigan and Rochdale reflecting their strategic locations for the sector, which are likely to remain.

Wigan is the seat of the North West Regional Assembly as is also likely to benefit to some extent from additional public sector employment growth.

RPG13 Spatial Development Framework establishes a structure for the concentration of development and urban renaissance resources across the North West region, with a particular focus on the Cities of Manchester and Salford Cities as regional poles, followed by other centres (including Ashton-under- Lyne, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Rochdale, Stockport and Wigan) that will have priority for development and regeneration. The study confirms that there is a need for an extensive mix of property and sites across Greater Manchester to ensure market demand is met. Consideration should be given to protection of sites that are not on the scale of strategic

investments sites in terms of land take but are nonetheless viewed as critical to the growth needs of Greater Manchester. The identification of such sites of special economic significance should be an integral part of the evaluation of the quality of the supply portfolio. Skills factors are especially important to the knowledge-based sectors such as financial and professional services, healthcare/biotech and environmental technologies and labour intensive sectors such as manufacturing/engineering and contact/shared service centres. Ensuring that the workforce of Greater Manchester has the correct balance of skills and knowledge is therefore as critical as providing the right property product. Demand for office floorspace is driven by the availability of property needs rather than the availability of developable land. Therefore securing the right range and quality speculative development is critical to maintaining a ready supply of office accommodation for the sub region. There is evidence that the demand for distribution space (B8) up to 2021 would to be more than met by development that either underway, proposed or in the pipeline. Employment decline in the manufacturing sector suggests that up to 477 hectares of industrial land will no longer be needed. This would be a reduction of 28% by 2021. However, this does not mean that there will not be a requirement for new sites for this sector. Issues / Constraints Wigan is over-represented in the food products; textiles and leather; other mineral products; and constructions sectors. The Borough does, however, have less employees in utilities and several of the Business Service sectors, with the overall figure for this key sector being a quarter below the national average.

Projection suggest that based on historic take up rates 25.41 hectares Wigan requires 406.6 (487.9) hectares of B1, B2, B8 land per annum between 2005 – 2021. An approach that focused solely on interventions to bring forward strategic investment sites to meet projected demand in Greater Manchester may not provide the necessary flexibility to meet market needs and realise the growth potential of the sub region. Assuming even the highest forecast demand for office accommodation, the development pipeline suggests that there is sufficient quantity of site for 19 years for office accommodation. However, it will not be known whether those sites are the right quality and in the right location to meet sector demand until more is known about the supply of sites in the sub region. Existing premises, which do not meet the requirements of modern manufacturing and engineering businesses, will continue to be sought by residential and other developers and occupiers to seek to realise their maximum value. This will create significant churn within the market through relocations. The likely scale of relocations is not known and needs to be determined in order to make adequate provision for new sites. The extent to which the sub region has the right property/sites in the right location will ultimately be determined by the follow on work on employment site supply. This will also inform the interventions needed to better align supply with demand.

The borough has an identified shortfall of up[ to 91 hectares of employment land during the plan period 2001 - 2016 How could the Local Development Framework respond For the Core Strategy and Allocations and Infrastructure DPD to: • Ensure that changes in industrial land use patterns are addressed through adequate land provision. • Ensure that there is enough flexibility in planning policies and allocations to ensure that any changes in land and premises requirements can be met. • Help contribute to a balanced economy in the borough. • To ensure that the provision of employment land encourages reduced need to travel to work. Implications for the sustainability appraisal A monitoring framework will need to incorporate indicators in the: • Annual Monitoring Report • Wigan Economic Development Plan monitoring framework Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • NW Employment Land Study (2005) .

• The Manchester City region Knowledge Economy Report

Table D5 Title The Manchester City Region Knowledge Economy Report Proponent body Manchester Knowledge Capital, Manchester Enterprises, AGMA Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Non Statutory Date produced 2006 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? This report provides a baseline assessment of the MCR knowledge economy. The big three concepts that MCR stakeholders are seeking to unify through integrated strategies and partnerships are: the city-region, the knowledge economy and sustainable development.

The author of this report, Local Futures, has produced similar city-region reports for Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff and the Three City Nottingham-Derby-Leicester partnership, as well as London. Key messages, requirements, objectives The main aims of this report are:

• To promote a shared understanding of the knowledge economy agenda for MCR stakeholders • To assess the MCR knowledge economy, benchmarking its position relative to other major city-regions and nationally • To identify strategic directions for the MCR knowledge economy for consideration by the sponsors of this report.

Key message:

That Greater Manchester will experience growth in the knowledge economy sectors. Opportunities • Forecasters expect the North West to follow national trends, with ‘knowledge workers’ predicted to make up more than 40 percent of the region’s labour force by 2014 (the figure for London is around 60 per cent). Financial and business services are expected to be the main sector driving knowledge employment growth in all regions of Britain. • Reinforcing this, forecasters believe that more intense global competition, accelerated innovation and the wider diffusion of ICT will combine to generate more highly skilled jobs across the entire country. • Metropolitan dominance is a major feature of the knowledge economy and therefore the Manchester City Region provides a suitable structure for growth with city regions are now being seen by many economic geographers and economists as the emerging flagships of national knowledge economies. • City regions the best structure to achieve economic competitiveness and it is believed that city regions as an organising framework can enable the development of sustainable and competitive knowledge economies outside London • Manchester City Region has been referred to the ‘powerhouse’ of the North. – with the largest contribution to national productivity/GVA outside London and the South East. Manchester City Region, alongside Leeds, has made the greatest economic progress and according the Northern Way group “appear to have the momentum and capacity to develop into European level competitive cities in the short-to-medium term”. With the progress already made by MCR, it has been suggested the city region act as a ‘pathfinder’ for other northern city regions. • Manchester City Region has a strong higher education (HE) sector. The 4 universities include the University of Manchester with a particularly strong academic reputation – being named Sunday Times University of the Year 2006 and ranking 15th in the academic league table in the UK. M:KC regards the HE sector and its world-class research as a key asset to Manchester City Region’s knowledge economy and to the science city programme. The partnership is also developing a graduate retention strategy, keeping highly skilled individuals in the area. • Manchester’s stakeholders have the opportunity to incorporate sustainability in to strategies for the city region before problems become irreversible and to create a niche as a ‘green’ city region.

• Manchester City Region stands out as having a strong knowledge economy within the North West and when compared to other city regions in the Northern Way, with a relatively strong business knowledge economy and skills profile. This suggests that the city region is of strategic importance both to the region as a whole and within the Northern Way.

Competitiveness, skills and travel analysis • Within both the Northern Way and the Core Cities, Manchester City Region is the largest city region in terms of economic scale and it is also one of the most productive. • Manchester City Region holds the largest share of knowledge intensive employment amongst the English city regions. Although, still far outweighed by London and the South East, Manchester is showing strong signs of catching up. • As major drivers of the knowledge economy, it is important to strengthen the quality of business start-ups in the city region. • If Manchester City Region is to create a sustainable knowledge economy, it is vital to address the inequalities – both in skills and employment – that exist across the city region. • Examining the spatial dynamics of the city region, Manchester and other central districts form the major employment centres. With growth in the Northern arc of districts (Wigan to Oldham), the North/South divide within the city region appear to be eroding. Issues / Constraints • National and regional occupational forecasts presume that Britain’s knowledge economy is characterised by a future decline in the less skilled manual and routine information-processing office jobs. Personal service and sales jobs are the only broad occupational category where positive job creation is forecast. However, many of these jobs – in Manchester’s hotels and restaurants, central shopping districts and local high streets and so on – tend to be casual and temporary, poorly-paid and increasingly taken by foreign transients and women looking for part-time work. Therefore, the future of MCR economy appears to depend on the innovative, managerial and entrepreneurial talent of knowledge workers - AND also their spending power in purchasing more personal and household services. • Intrinsic links between change in economy and education which have led to social exclusion and widening of the social classes. • more funding and resources are required for devolved to city regions to strengthen their strategic decision-making capabilities. Economic Architectures • 27 per cent of all jobs in the North West in 2004 were generated by highly knowledge- intensive (K1) industries and services. This comprises mainly of the public sector – education, and health and social work (81.3 per cent of total K1 employment). • The North West has a relatively weak business knowledge economy, accounting for just 32 per cent of knowledge intensive employment (K1 plus K2). Half of employment of in the private sector is concentrated in the K4 sectors, 55.8 per cent of which comprises retail, wholesale, and hotel and restaurants. • A relatively high proportion of jobs in the financial and business services fall in to the K2 and K3 sectors, which raises issues of the types of jobs being created in these sectors • The North West has a poor supply of graduate labour; just 22.2 per cent of the resident labour force is qualified to degree standards. Many of these highly skilled people appear to be under-employed in occupations that do not normally require a degree. • At the other end of the labour market, over a third of the North West’s residents lack basic qualifications and effectively live in ‘skills poverty’. The problem of ‘skills poverty’ is particularly high amongst the older population (45 years to retirement age). • The employment rate declines as qualification levels become more basic. The employment rate amongst degree holders, despite the indication of underemployment, stands at 86.7 per cent, whilst the employment rate for those with basic or no qualifications stands at just 60 per cent. • From a national perspective the knowledge economy is London-centric. Outside of London, the city region agenda aims to counterweight London’s economic scale and competitiveness. Manchester City Region is very important to this agenda as a whole, as it is offers the greatest opportunities for developing a competitive knowledge economy.

• Despite successes recently, Manchester City Region still needs to deal with issues of inequality. Similar patterns of inequality – in employment and skills – are found within all big cities, including London and Birmingham. These disparities are summarised in Chart 2.7. • These inequalities demonstrate that the benefits of the development of the knowledge economy do not necessarily cascade down to all areas, particularly within the core of the city region, Manchester, where huge ‘skills poverty’ threatens to exclude thousands from the knowledge economy. • The contrast between the left and right hand sides of the architectures – employment and skills – suggests that it is commuters who seem to gain from the local knowledge economies. Ultimately the city region’s knowledge economy needs to grow but this must socially and spatially inclusive. How does Manchester City Region compete with London without creating the inequalities London faces? • Wigan is identified as having one of the weakest knowledge economy’s in Greater Manchester. (see diagram below).

Competitiveness • Districts on the northern edge of the city region – Wigan across and down to High Peak – are characterised by weaker business drivers. Furthermore, the city region as a whole is the least reliant on the public sector as a knowledge intensive employer.

Business Analysis • The enterprise culture in Manchester City Region is also important. We can see that new business formation rates are slightly higher than the national average, 10.94 and 10.08 respectively. There is considerable variation in formation rates within the city region. It would appear that those districts located along the M60/M62 corridor are the most enterprising, this may as a result of good connectivity and strategic emphasis. In the longer term, looking at change in total VAT registered stock from 1996 to 2005; it is the districts in the south west of the city region, Vale Royal and Warrington, with the highest growth rates. Taken together with new business survival rates, this would indicate that the quality of new business formation, particularly in Manchester, Tameside and Oldham and areas in the north of the city region, is not strong.

Skills Analysis • Human capital – the knowledge, skills and other competences of the workforce – powers the knowledge economy. There is an obvious skills divide between the north and south of Manchester City Region, made evident by the human capital index, a weighted average of NVQs. • The geography of graduate labour, unsurprisingly, corresponds with that of knowledge workers, with the highest proportion of knowledge workers resident in Congleton, Vale Royal, Macclesfield, Trafford and Stockport. How could the Local Development Framework respond For Local Development Framework to address the following issues: ƒ What policies are in place to promote a competitive, inclusive and sustainable economy in Manchester City Region? ƒ What are the impacts of the knowledge economy in the city region? ƒ How does Manchester City Region fit within the wider geographical context i.e. with the Northern Way, the Core Cities, and the North West? ƒ How can transport systems and economic development reduce sprawl and produce more income multipliers? How will the transport system cope with the pattern of development in the city region, with several major employment centres? ƒ The public sector is crucial to the development of Manchester City Region’s knowledge economy and in defining the city region itself. How can the public sector play a more influential role? Could multi-area agreements be an effective model? ƒ What is the future role for universities in the Manchester City Region? How might they become more embedded as drivers of the local economy? ƒ How does the city region develop major clusters and encourage knowledge spillover within the city region? ƒ With an already strong cultural scene in Manchester, cultural cosmopolitanism is important in attracting and retaining talent in the city region. What strategies are and should be put in place to build on this cultural milieu? ƒ Tackling ‘skills poverty’ has to be a major priority if the knowledge economy is to be inclusive. What strategies are in place to improve skills and what more could be

done? ƒ As the life blood of the knowledge economy, policies to promote business enterprise and to support innovation are a key priority. ƒ Although the point has already been made, finding areas where London does not have the first-mover advantage and creating niches in the city region is of particular importance. How is might the city region develop these niches? Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed background information. May be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • Moving Forward – the Northern Way • Regional Spatial Strategy for the North West • Greater Manchester Economic Development Plan 2004/05 – 2006/07 • Greater Manchester City Strategy • City Region Development Plan 2005 • Wigan Economic Development Plan

Table D6 Title NWRA Mersey Belt Study Policy Statement Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2003 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Mersey Belt Study was published in May 2002 and circulated to all local authorities in the North West and to other regional partners. The study sought to:

• Identify the steps needed to manage better all assets within the Mersey Belt Southern Crescent so that economic potential could be encouraged and realised creatively, without compromising the principles of sustainable development.

• Support and complement regeneration in the Metropolitan Axis by identifying realistic and sustainable opportunities to accommodate and deflect development pressures from the south to the north of the River Mersey in the short and long term. Key messages, requirements, objectives This Policy Statement was published in October 2003 and presents the Agencies final policy and response to recommendations. The study primarily addresses the requirements of the Regional Economic Strategy and Regional Planning Guidance for the North West (RPG13). Within the RES, Objective 9 ‘Ensure the availability of a balanced portfolio of employment sites’, both the key activities are relevant to the Mersey Belt Study:

• Secure the development of designated strategic regional sites to boost business growth opportunities. • Secure a complementary portfolio of sub regional and local employment sites.

Within the explanatory text to Objective 9 the Strategy makes further reference to the Mersey Belt Study:

“A limited number of further (strategic regional) sites may be required, for example sites arising from local plans or from studies such as the Mersey Belt Study. In relation to the Mersey Belt Study the NWDA will prepare a position statement which will set out its own interim conclusions. The NWDA will then consult widely with regional partners and consider any representations before formally designating any further strategic regional sites”. Opportunities Issues with the document that effect Wigan include:

Identification of Wigan South Central as strategic opportunities for encouraging the development of knowledge based industry in RPG’s North West Metropolitan Area, and working alongside the local authorities concerned, endorse the use of the Agency’s powers and resources (including land assembly and if necessary compulsory purchase) to bring about their successful regeneration and development.

Maximise Omega’s potential by enhancing public transport accessibility from south Warrington and towns in neighbouring districts such as St Helens, Wigan and Halton. (For further information see NWRA Strategic Regional Sites Evidence Base (Jan 2005) and Emerging issues and NWRA Regional Strategic Sites Annual Monitoring Report (April 2005))

Concentrating resources on a small number of locations and improving transport links in the “gap area” between the two conurbations – specific references to Wigan South Central and Middlebrook, Bolton.

Wigan South Central being located in the centre of the “gap area” defined by the Mersey Belt Study consultants. It is a major brownfield development opportunity at a central location in RPG’s North West Metropolitan Area Regeneration Priority Area. Wigan is identified in RPG’s key diagram as a Metropolitan “key town”. Its rail hub provides direct services to national destinations on the West Coast Main Line, and services to many regional destinations. It is well served by public transport. Office development is therefore supported by RPG Policy EC8. As with Chester City Centre, Wigan South

Central is identified only as a general location. However it is anticipated that any development sites subsequently identified would similarly comply with RPG Policies DP1 and Policy EC8.

Wigan Metropolitan Borough Council has committing itself to work with NWDA to implement the proposal and consultants are developing the concept currently. Major infrastructure investment will be required to deliver the proposals. The Agency should regard Wigan South Central as an important opportunity in the “gap area”. However further work and feasibility study has yet to be completed, and designation as a strategic regional site is not therefore appropriate at this stage.

Issues / Constraints Risk that developments such as Omega would increase out commuting from borough and constrain the growth of the borough’s knowledge economy. How could the Local Development Framework respond ƒ Ensuring that large employment developments are identified and monitored in terms of their impact on the borough’s economy. ƒ Options need to be explored to compliment Wigan’s role in the region’s economy whilst ensuring its own economic growth is not negatively effected. ƒ Framework needs to have full regard to all sub regional spatial concepts. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed background information. May be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews)

Table D7 Title Liverpool City Region Strategic Proposals Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) 2005 Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Liverpool city region development programme has been assembled under the overview of The Mersey Partnership, (the sub-regional partnership), through an operational group chaired by Liverpool City Council and comprising the local authorities of Wirral, St Helens, Knowsley, Sefton and Halton, Merseytravel, GM Learning and Skills Council, The Mersey Partnership and Merseyside Policy Unit.

This economic strategy has been produced alongside work on the Regional Spatial and Housing Strategies, the Merseyside Local Transport Plan and the review of the North West Regional Economic Strategy. It sets out an initial analysis of the city region and presents a strategic and action framework for further development.

The city region comprises the Core City of Liverpool and local authority districts of St Helens, Wirral, Knowsley, Sefton, and Halton plus the adjacent areas of Warrington, Chester, Ellesmere Port and Neston (West Cheshire), and North Wales and West Lancashire. There are also strong economic interrelationships with the Manchester city region. Its markets inter-act over a much wider catchment area; 6.75 million people live within 60 minutes drive time from Liverpool City Centre. The city region economy contributes a 40% share of the North West region’s GVA and 34% of its jobs. Key messages, requirements, objectives To improve the economic future of the Liverpool City Region for all our residents and businesses. In doing this over the next twenty years we will contribute to the growth of the North of England economy and help reduce the economic gap with the rest of the UK. Opportunities Wigan borough identified as having strong flows with the city region in particular with Warrington and Cheshire which provide important inflows to the city region.

1) Strategic Priorities and their key actions Key investments include: • effective national and North of England marketing of Liverpool Capital of Culture 2008 • sustaining the investment in Mersey Waterfront Regional Park’s unique range of coastal assets to create a new sense of place that attracts tourists, businesses, and investors to the city region and reduces the outflow of our talented young people.

2) The Well Connected City Region. Key investments include: • Developing the Port of Liverpool as the International Sea Gateway to the North of England; • Infrastructure investments to support the expansion of Liverpool John Lennon Airport. • The Mersey Gateway will provide a new road bridge crossing of the River Mersey between Runcorn and Widnes to improve and modernise road access to the city region • Enhanced Rail connections including improvements to the West Coast Main Line; Trans-Pennine routes and Lime Street Station and Gateway.

3) The Creative and Competitive City Region. Key investments include: • Research and Development - addressing knowledge transfer and commercialisation of research ideas within the HE and business bases, particularly in our health and life sciences strengths. • Focus Clusters will enable world class clustering infrastructures in our key areas of global industrial strength. • Pervasive Productivity will work to secure a step-change in raising the productivity of our wider business base. • Public Sector Excellence - modernising public services, and maximising its role as a major purchaser of goods and services for the benefit of the City Region.

• 21st Century Sites and Premises - delivering a diverse range of modern and flexible sites, capable of meeting the needs of modern businesses. • Environmental technologies – developing the region’s unique potential for excellence in environmental technology/performance, expanding the knowledge base, and achieving international recognition for centres of excellence in selected sub-sectors

4) The Talented and Able City Region. Key investments include: • Full Employment in the City Region which will tackle concentrations of worklessness through an accelerated process of up-skilling and employability and Skills for the City Region, to develop a highly skilled and flexible workforce.

5) The City Region of Sustainable Neighbourhoods and Communities. Key investments include: • Expanding the quality and choice of our housing offer; and enhancing our residential areas to sustain and reflect economic growth. We also recognise that ‘health is wealth’ and aim to make a significant improvement in the health prospects of our people. Issues / Constraints • Deprivation levels in parts of the LCR are among the highest in the UK and are intrinsically related to patterns of low economic activity and skills and to the failure of housing markets in the conurbation core. • 300,000 people who are economically inactive • The Liverpool city region has a mixture of strong and weaker economic centres and sharp contrasts in productivity and quality of life • Alongside some of the UK’s best economic performance are found some of the most severe instances of market failure (housing, skills levels, worklessness and deprivation). • The overall pattern of employment change over recent years has been decline in primary and manufacturing activities offset by growth in services. Public service expansion, in particular, has been a major contributor to employment growth within the city region but this brings some clear vulnerabilities. • Analysis of business density shows a substantial variation. Parts of the city-region are comparable with the North West, but most have densities that are lower and evidence shows that lowest densities are in, or close to, the core urban area. • Labour market activity rates across the sub-region vary widely but there exists a distinct pattern with rates in the core urban area falling away significantly from other areas. Evidence suggests that close to a fifth of the inactive base in the LCR aspire to work but the low levels of activity in part of the LCR are a specific characteristic of the concentrations of deprivation and remain one of the primary challenges in moving forward. How could the Local Development Framework respond ƒ Ensuring that large employment developments are identified and monitored in terms of their impact on the borough’s economy. ƒ Options need to be explored to compliment Wigan’s role in the region’s economy whilst ensuring its own economic growth is not negatively effected. Framework needs to have full regard to all sub regional spatial concepts. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed background information. May be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Northern Way Housing Regional Economic Strategy Retail and Centres Liverpool City Region Development Programme

Table D8 Title Liverpool City Region Development Programme Report Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2005 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The 2006 update to the Liverpool City Region (LCR) Development Programme has been compiled by the Sub Regional Partnership (SRP), guided by The Mersey Partnership with support and collaboration from key partners who have worked together closely on updating the progress that has been made on the key themes. Key messages, requirements, objectives It will form the key strategy statement, for submission to the Northern Way, on the future direction of the whole City Region and a platform from which partners in the City Region can:-

ƒ Promote the City Region and its assets ƒ Provide focus for and help align the various strategies and funding streams ƒ Help to stimulate private sector involvement and investment ƒ Influence public investment planning and coordination ƒ Establish collaborations across the City Region ƒ Identify and develop pan-northern opportunities/ organisations to promote knowledge transfer and spin offs ƒ Accelerate development of health science research capacity within the City Region Opportunities ƒ Increase inward investment (Discussions with NWDA Strategic Investment Programme) ƒ Develop sector clusters (The Mersey Partnership is working closely with Sector Boards, Directors and Funding Stakeholders to bring forward a final phase of the Programme for 2007 and 2008) ƒ Improve physical business infrastructure ƒ Health is wealth ƒ Environment Economy (Particular focus will be on Waste Management, Environmental Technologies, Green Infrastructure and Responsible Business and Sustainable Procurement) ƒ Digital Development (Liverpool University’s Advanced, Internet Methods and Emergent Systems Centre (AIMES), Digital Academy, Community based digital initiatives) ƒ Well connected City region (The aim is to develop the Ports of Liverpool into the international sea gateway to the North of England, John Lennon Airport is the fastest growing airport in the UKK with further plans for expansion, Mersey Gateway - creation of a second crossing of the Mersey at Runcorn/Widnes is seen as a key economic driver) Issues / Constraints ƒ The final phase of the Merseyside Sector Development Programme is dependent on continued support from Government Office for the North West (GoNW) and NWDA. ƒ The lack of a ready stock of the highestclass commercial sites has been a major inhibitor for parts of the City Region for decades and is required to meet the demanding needs of modern businesses. ƒ future success of the Air port is dependent on developing key routes to major London airports and the implementation of new and improved road and rail infrastructure. Productivity ƒ GVA and GVA per capita growth has been stronger in LCR than in the North West and the UK as a whole. ƒ Cheshire GVA per capita 13% greater than for the UK. ƒ Cheshire, Warrington and Halton GVA out performing the rest of the North West, but other areas significantly lower - Wirral, East Merseyside. ƒ Public sector spending levels and a drive to increase ƒ Productivity in public services (e.g. public sector = 34% of LCR workforce (203k) and 26% of economic output; 20 Govt departments with 17k civil servants) Population and Labour Market Migration ƒ Working age population in steady growth between 1993 and 2003 reversing period of

decline (particularly strong reversal in Knowsley, Warrington, Wirral and Sefton). ƒ Continued decline in 25-34 age cohort is affecting the development of a high skilled young professional market and graduate retention. ƒ Liverpool is the primary recipient of labour movement within the city region over 75,000 migrating into Liverpool mainly from - Wirral, Sefton, St.Helens. ƒ Significant labour market linkage between LCR and other surrounding City regions. ƒ Higher-level occupations tending to move outside of the city region for work, with the link to Manchester City region being particularly strong. ƒ Distinctive areas of low quality housing stock and high levels of deprivation. ƒ Relatively stable population of around 2.3 million people. ƒ Economic boundaries (as defined by travel to retail and travel to work) are not consistent with political and administrative boundaries (e.g. Liverpool primary inflows - Wirral, Sefton and Knowsley). ƒ Ageing population lowering relative percentage of working age population and consequently the demand on public services, investment and companies. ƒ Labour mobility, including in-migration of labour from overseas and internal movement of people to jobs. ƒ Business connectivity including digital infrastructure, logistics, business orientated air-links, and links to adequate skills supply (e.g. 70% of CEO’s now use low cost airlines for business purposes). ƒ Chester’s vibrant economy is a significant importer of labour from across the City Region and the North. Skills ƒ Workless individuals have a much higher prevalence of low/ no skills and lower average low/no skilled prevalence rates significantly. This demonstrates a picture of particular pockets of deprivation linked to unemployment. ƒ Proportion of LCR residents qualified to level 4+ lower than across the North West and the UK whereas 80% of new jobs are at Level 4+. ƒ Increased importance of enterprise, skills, innovation, investment, technology and competition in driving business productivity. Employment ƒ LCR has 989,000 jobs (equivalent to 34% of region). ƒ Employment is highest in the public sector (31%), followed by distribution, hotels and restaurants and manufacturing. ƒ Highest worklessness rates in the core urban areas - Liverpool has 90,000 workless adults [city employment rate 63% (UK 75%)]. Business and Sector Development ƒ Nearly 50,000 VAT registered businesses exist across the City Region, but there is significant variation in business density across the City Region. ƒ Global political instability (particularly relating to commodity prices). ƒ LCR, although a patchwork of sub-economies, is driven by 4 core spheres of economic activity – International commerce, manufacturing, financial services and transport. How could the Local Development Framework respond To develop spatial options that take into account cross boundary issues with areas such as St Helens and West Lancashire and have full regard to sub regional approaches to development. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed background information. May be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Northern Way Housing Regional Economic Strategy Retail and Centres

Table D9 Title Sub Regional Economic Strategy for Warrington and Cheshire (CWEA 2004) Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? ‘Investing in Success’ has been prepared in the context of other important strategies such as the Regional Economic Strategy (March 2003), and two community Plans for Warrington and Cheshire and the strategic frameworks governing the work of the learning and Skills Council Cheshire and Warrington and business link Cheshire and Warrington.

The strategy has in part been developed in response to a request by NWDA for a strategy and action plan to help guide their investment decisions in Cheshire and Warrington. However, it also has a wide propose and should help guide and shape a broader range of investment decisions beyond the Agency, particularly where the collective impact of interventions can really make a difference. Key messages, requirements, objectives

• The region to act as a successful economic engine for the region and wider Northern Way area operating in a complementary way with the regions main urban areas Opportunities • Offer a world class location for key knowledge based sectors including combination of access, scale and quality of skills pool and quality of environment. Issues / Constraints • Still have untapped potential in pockets of deprivation and amongst working age population who lack basic skills or have low qualifications. • Are a provider of wider opportunities which are and could be accessed by residents of the more deprived urban areas in Greater Manchester and Merseyside. • increasing problems of success manifest in congestion, skills shortages, housing affordability concerns and access to sites and premises for growth How could the Local Development Framework respond To develop spatial options that take into account cross boundary issues with areas such as Warrington and have full regard to sub regional approaches to development. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed background information. May be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Northern Way Housing Regional Economic Strategy Retail and Centres

Local

Table E1 Title Wigan Economic Development Plan Proponent body Wigan Council Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Non Statutory Date produced 2005 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Plan is regarded as a catalyst for change. It successfully integrates National, Regional and Sub-Regional Strategies and supports the LSP Community Plan. The Plan defines clear goals and articulates the local needs and issues that have to be met and overcome so as to achieve the goals. The Plan was completed on June 2005 and was approved and adopted by the Board of Wigan Economic Partnership on 29 June 2005 and approved by the Council Regeneration Panel on 8 June 2005. Wigan Economic Partnership is one of seven thematic partnerships forming a key component of the Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) structure in the Borough. The principal role of the Economic Partnership is to develop the Economic Development Strategy for the Borough and to lead on the strategy’s implementation. The following Vision Statement was agreed at the Wigan Economic Partnership meeting held on 27 May 2004:

Before the year 2020, the Borough will be: • One of the best places to live and work with access to all the North West has to offer • A prosperous community of skilled people and successful businesses. The Wigan Economic Development Plan recognises the following in realising the vision:

The need to offer greater opportunity for local residents by modernising the local economy thereby increasing the number and quality of jobs. However, this requirement for modernisation should be balanced against the quality of life of the Borough residents. Wigan Borough does not have the development land capacity to meet the full employment needs of its residents and the development of green field sites for major new developments would have adverse environmental impact. The major centres of employment external to the Borough such as the Regional Centre, Warrington and Bolton will therefore remain integral to the growth in prosperity of Borough residents. Key messages, requirements, objectives Key Message The need to offer greater opportunity for local residents by modernising the local economy thereby increasing the number and quality of jobs. However, this requirement for modernisation should be balanced against the quality of life of the Borough residents The 5 principles stated by Wigan Economic Partnership are:

• To attract high quality investment will require a corresponding high quality offer in terms of environment, sites, supporting infrastructure and skilled labour. • The need to improve the transport infrastructure of the Borough to enable residents to easily access the new internal and external opportunities. The key to opening up these opportunities is the A5225. • That the full potential of the Wigan Economy can only be realised by directing economic regeneration at those in greatest need. Economic inefficiencies can be addressed by focusing on worklessness and areas of high deprivation. • That the skills base of local residents will have to increase to enable them to take full advantage of the new opportunities being created and to increase wage levels. • That Town Centres are important engines and indicators of economic prosperity and will require investment to meet increasing user expectations.

• That the growth of the Leisure, Cultural and Sport Sectors of the economy will contribute significantly to the enhancement of the quality of life for Wigan residents.

Social Inclusion In order to ensure that we improve social inclusion there is a need to understand:

• What prevents people being active and contributing members of their communities • What is the best way to motivate people? especially children and young people • What are the risk factors that tend to make things worse

Partnership Working It will be essential for the Partnership to work co operatively with other thematic partnerships in addressing many of the key issues and priorities identified. Within the Community Plan, there are identified areas where cross partnership working could be beneficial in achieving the Goal.

Sustainable Development The aim is to improve competitiveness and encourage economic growth at the same time as protecting and enhancing Wigan’s diverse environment, using resources prudently, tackling the causes of social exclusion, and recognising the needs and contribution of everyone. A sustainable development appraisal will be carried out prior to finalising the Plan.

Opportunities From the 6 Goals; • From a survivability angle, manufacturing industries are showing a net “loss” whilst financial and business services sector is showing significant increasing net “gains”. These figures mirror the overall sub regional levels but the figures for Wigan are significantly lower than other areas. • Business support services have been relatively successful in helping new companies survive, but this success has been mainly within the declining manufacturing sector, this support has to be transformed to acknowledge the desire to grow knowledge based businesses • There is a need for more people with business leadership and management skills across the Wigan economy to stimulate business growth, encourage entrepreneurship and increase business start ups. • A relatively stable workforce in Wigan means that employees are more likely to remain loyal to their current employer following employer investment in skills development and training than in other areas of the NW region. This could become a significant advantage for the Borough as it increases its attraction to potential investors. Wigan needs to narrow the GVA gap between it and the higher growth local economies in the south of the Greater Manchester. • The basic skills issues in Wigan need to continue to be tackled to ensure it remains at or above the GM average. Currently 25% of residents have basic skills needs. • It is essential that the learning and training providers are directed towards meeting the current and future skills demands for the Borough. The growth areas in the local economy are known and Wigan has the opportunity to play to its strengths in positioning itself to support the development of particular business niches (e.g. environmental technology). Issues / Constraints Goal 1 - Build Competitive Businesses • There has been a significant shift in the types and sectors of business growth and sustainability. In 1994 new VAT registrations for SIC classified manufacturers was 60, by 2003 this figure was 35. For SIC classified financial intermediation, real estate, renting and business services the figures were 105 in 1994 and 200 in 2003. • 21% of the companies in the Borough are in knowledge-driven sectors. This is the second lowest amongst the comparators within the Local Futures audit. Wigan has a relatively high proportion of businesses in the knowledge-driven production, reflecting the Borough’s traditional strengths in manufacturing. • 96% of Wigan companies employ fewer than 50 people (source Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy). Of these approximately 75% employ fewer than 10 people illustrating that small firms are an important component of the local economy. • Although new business stock increased by 3.5% this is from a relatively low base and Wigan still has a low business density. • Identified lack of level 4 employment opportunities in growth manufacturing sectors. Goal 2 - Attract visitors, investment and talent • Whilst the growth in knowledge-driven employment may seem at first glance to be

impressive, on further analysis, the figures highlight some major concerns. Assuming Wigan maintained this growth over the years to 2001 to 2011, and other authorities achieved zero growth, then Wigan would still only advance one place higher. Furthermore, Trafford has the third highest growth, but double that of Wigan at 63%. • This growth may well be fuelled by the massive growth in Public Sector employment and not specifically from attracting or growing knowledge-driven companies within the Borough. • Lack of quality housing to fuel investment. This has an impact on the quality of life and lifestyle of potential/current workforce (e.g. graduates) Goal 3 - Create World Class Skills • There is sufficient provision at level 3, but uneven provision at level 2 across the borough • Measures are needed to address low rate of female employment in the Wigan economy. • There needs to be improved engagement with businesses in relation to workforce skills development. • The low self-employment rate in Wigan indicates a lack of entrepreneurship within the Borough. This is a significant barrier to increasing the rate of employment within the knowledge sector. • The majority of the working population within Wigan are not suitably qualified to gain employment in the knowledge sector. This lack of a suitably qualified and skilled workforce may seriously undermine any efforts to exploit the significant increase in available office space within Wigan. The numbers of people in Wigan and levels 3 and 4 needs to be increased. • The raising of personal ambition and expectations in Wigan needs to be tackled in order to kick start economic activity and growth by increasing business start up, bringing greater pressures on employees and employees for work based learning and increasing demands for higher-level education. Goal 4 - Achieve Economic Inclusion • The economic exclusion of significant sectors of the population needs to be addressed. • Basic employability and occupational skills of those not in work need to addressed in order to raise their competitiveness in the labour market • How can employment opportunities be secured for people on incapacity benefits wishing to return to today’s labour market? • High levels of Incapacity Benefit claimants – there is a need to concentrate efforts within the first 6 months of claiming otherwise claimants tend to remain on Incapacity Benefit for long periods. • Quality of primary care in Wigan Goal 5 - Ensure the best transition to working life for all our young people • Whilst there has been an overall rise in young people going into learning there needs to be an increase in those going into full time Further Education and Work Based Learning. The StAR review identified a lack of aspiration amongst residents which contributed to poor staying on rates in education. • The growing numbers of young people who have non-employed status in work based learning. There are also growing numbers of young people entering jobs without training • There is a relatively high number of young people who are not in education, employment or training, (NEET) though good work is being done to reduce this number (The group has a range of disadvantages and there is a lack of opportunity for some). • Educational achievement of young people at Key Stage 3 in some schools below the national average for national curriculum level 5+. (13 out of 21 below national average). • Educational achievement of young people at Key Stage 4 in some schools below the national average for level 2 (5 or more A*-C, GCSE grades or equivalent). (11 out of 21 below national average). • Post-16 attainment at GCE and VCE level shows a wide variation between learning providers. • Low value added at A/AVCE level of some providers. • There is a concern over the low rate of working age population qualified to Level 4 and above. This has implications for the development of knowledge industries within the Borough. • Provision in work based learning is of varying quality. Transport system and employer base does not support work related learning opportunities. Lack of suitable employers for Level 3 Apprenticeships. • The increase in NVQ only achievement within work based learning at the expense of

full apprenticeship programme. Also the poor achievement rate at levels 2 and 3. • Falling rolls in primary and secondary schools in the borough. • New build work is being undertaken at both Wigan and Leigh College and St John Rigby College. The impact of this should be taken into consideration when planning future provision. • Internal transport system does not support the development of skills, employment and education. There are issues about accessibility of colleges and schools. Wigan has in place a 14-19 strategy, covering the period to 2014. It summarises issues in the Wigan area as: • A highly particular local geography which has strengths, but may also inhibit aspirations, participation and achievement for both young people and adults • Educational issues include poor resourcing; inadequate educational building stock; falling school rolls and some under achievement • A general lack of strategic planning and coherent provision by the range of partners involved in the delivery of the 14-19 phase and beyond. This results in a lack of co- ordination and co-operation in the planning of the 14-16 curriculum and work related learning across schools. • A prime opportunity to access funding and create an educational culture based on participation in learning throughout life and leading to marked improvements in individual achievement. • A high level of segregation at secondary level for Learners with Learning Difficulties and Disabilities (LLDD). (Special schools are in the process of addressing this by implementing the outcomes of the Special Schools Review). Goal 6 - Attain a modern, integrated and efficient transport network • There is large-scale recognition of the inadequacy of the Borough’s internal transport system. • How important are our external communication links. • Internal transport system does not support the development of skills, employment and education. How could the Local Development Framework respond The Local Development Framework should have full regard to the issues and opportunities identified in the plan. The plan is a key document in formulating its spatial vision and objectives in the Local Development Framework Core Strategy and Allocation and Infrastructure DPD. Questions identified in achieving the goals of the plan should be addressed through preparation of these DPDs. For example: Goal 2 - Attract visitors, investment and talent • Should the Borough continue to replace jobs lost from the traditional sectors with jobs from the service/knowledge sectors to maintain the status quo? • What is the scale and quality of employment land supply needed to attract sufficient new jobs to provide for the needs of the local people? • Should the Borough seek to increase the total number of jobs available so as to reduce the net outflow of commuters? Goal 4 - Achieve Economic Inclusion • How are people to be engaged to rejoin the formal labour market and secure employment? • How can improvements in health be linked to economic development and regeneration? • How joined up are local agencies delivering services. Are structures comprehensive, co-ordinated or relevant? Goal 6 - Attain a modern, integrated and efficient transport network • Which key transport infrastructure projects are fundamental to the Borough’s economy? • Are there solutions to these problems which do not involve substantial new roads? • Assuming that new road building is the only realistic solution, how do we secure the resources to achieve our aspirations? • What priority should be given to the development of local employment as a means of reducing travel requirements? • What priority should be given to lobbying relevant agencies to secure improvements in links to adjoining major centres of employment and the national transport system? Implications for the sustainability appraisal The appraisal framework should consider the issues outlined in this review (these should be tackled in a holistic manner and not simply through “economic objectives”). A number of indicators may also be relevant to the monitoring of the sustainability appraisal.

Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) • Regional Economic Strategy Housing • Regional Policy Guidance for the Retail and Centres North West (RPG 13) • The Northern Way and Manchester City Development Programme • Regional Spatial Strategy - Manchester City-Region • The Greater Manchester Strategy • Greater Manchester Economic Development Plan • Wigan Community Plan • Local Futures Study

Table E2 Title B2B Final Report Proponent body Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2002 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The B2B report aims to develop a marketing strategy for Wigan’s New Economic Development Zone.

To achieve this the study comprises of evidence gathered from: • A survey of companies in the north west who had moved recently (30 firms) or were intending to move within the next two years (50 firms) • Interviews with developers, agents, and intermediaries (18) • CREDO – a national database of over 250,000 company relocations • Previously undertaken surveys of movers and intending movers • NWDA successes and enquiries databases, and the WBP enquiries database • Desk research, and previous research studies Key messages, requirements, objectives Like all regional economies, the North West is affected by trends in the national economy. Although buoyed up by consumer borrowing and spending, and public sector spending programmes, growth is running at a slacker pace. Manufacturing has been in recession for over a year, and these factors have diminished the pace of company expansions and relocations. Such trends have contributed to a subdued regional property market. With the exceptions of housing, and to a lesser extent retail and distribution, all North West property markets are quieter. Manufacturing is very quiet. According to agents and developers, key factors currently driving demand for property in the North West are: • Start-ups (small amounts of space across all sectors, and property types) • Demand for local industrial space by local firms expanding (no specific sectors) • Demand for warehousing from 20,000 sq ft right up to 500,000 sq ft, from retail operators, and 3rd Party distributors • Demand for small office units (2,000 up to 10,000 sq ft) from professional services occupiers – legal, accountants, architects, ICT, recruitment agencies, consultants – both regional offices of national firms and head offices of regional/sub-regional firms • There is some debate amongst intermediaries about the demand for out-of-centre offices, with some developers prepared to back such investments, but others considering the market is over-supplied, and that City Centres are safer • There are mixed views on the Call Centre market, with some considering demand to have peaked, but many of the recent investment announcements nationally have been Call Centres. Examples locating in Bolton and Blackburn give encouragement that such developments could be attracted to Wigan

Opportunities Over the last 5 years Wigan’s business relocation has had a positive balance of moves in over moves out. Half of firms currently undecided on a future location for their investments rated Wigan at a 3 or better on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 was considered ‘not at all suitable’ and 5 ‘extremely suitable’ for their business needs.

Developers and agents asked to rank Wigan generally also rated it at around 3 on a similar scale, against 8 important investment locations, mainly in the southern half of the North West1ranking it from 4th to 7th on various investment criteria: Summary Wigan Wigan's Rank of 9 Score* Communications 3.2 5 Property supply/cost 3.1 6 Labour supply/cost 3.5 4 Image for business 2.4 7 Engineering/mfg business 3.6 4 Software/prof services business 2.6 7 Govt office/charity etc relocation 3.0 6 Call centre 3.5 6 Major leisure/tourism development 2.8 4 Distribution centre (for NW) 3.5 4 Shopping village 2.9 6 The main strengths of Wigan identified by developers comprised of its;

• Basic location, allied to good strategic communications

• Labour pool: size, price, loyalty and quality (for manufacturing)Competitive land and premises prices • ‘Underrated’ environment Sectors with most potential to invest in Wigan are likely; to be already well-represented in the area, to be significant in the North West region generally, to be growth sectors or mobile for other reasons.

Some functional sectors, such as Call Centres, Shared Service Centres and Distribution Centres might represent potential investors. Issues / Constraints Wigan has a poor image nationally as a business location. In the last Black Horse Relocation Survey in 1997, the town was ranked 39th of 48 UK cities as the most desirable city to relocate to if moving. The main weaknesses of Wigan identified by developers included; • Poor image for business – ‘flat caps and mill clogs’ image persists • Internal communications – especially lack of A5225 • Lack of sites connected to good communications • Quality of life/environment For office occupiers • Lack of established offices market and business services sector • No university Views on the specific EDZ sites were generally positive, with Pemberton Colliery, Westwood Park and Wigan Pier exciting most interest. But the levels of interest were contingent on the improvements to access that would come from implementation of

1 Chester, Liverpool Centre, Manchester Centre, Skelmersdale, St Helens, Trafford Park, Warrington, Wolverhampton

the A5225. The Pemberton site is viewed as stand alone, whereas the other two sites are seen as linking into the town centre. Wigan Pier is viewed as requiring a comprehensive regeneration. Wigan Enterprise Park is viewed as being ‘the wrong side of town’, but having more potential if the road can be extended to improve access to the site. Wigan has a weak record in attracting investments from some of the sectors expected to grow most strongly over the next decade. Business and professional services are sectors projected to grow by over 120,000 jobs from 1999 to 2010 in the North West, but Wigan has been losing firms in these sectors through relocations. Shifting the economy towards these growth sectors is a crucial objective if employment is not to decline. How could the Local Development Framework respond

To encourage future business growth, the following issues need to be taken into account; • A better choice of executive housing must be provided in attractive locations, near to the good schools that Wigan has. • Wigan needs developers to build offices, with good links to the town centre – Westwood park seems an obvious opportunity to encourage further development of an offices market, and perhaps the best opportunity to establish a business park in Wigan. • Local college and training providers need to develop and offer courses suited to occupations in the business and professional services sector. Wigan also needs to continue attracting businesses in sectors suited to its current strengths. This requires: • a mix of industrial properties to suit the needs of relocating and expanding manufacturing and warehousing businesses - 5,000 sq ft up to around 30,000 • consideration of a sheltered industrial start-up centre, offering a mix of very small units Finally, a marketing and promotion campaign is required to target the sectors identified and put Wigan on the investment map. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed background information. May be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic Reviews) Wigan Economic Development Plan Housing Retail and Centres

Table E3 Title Wigan’s Economic Development Update July 2007 Proponent body Wigan Council Status (e.g. statutory, non- statutory) Date produced July 2007 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework?

This report forms part of the regular series providing information on the current state of the Wigan economy and progress in attracting new jobs and investment to the Borough. The report looks at current unemployment, progress on major employment sites, enquiries for sites and buildings and investments for the period April 2007 to June 2007.

Key messages, requirements & objectives

Unemployment The figures show an unemployment rate of 2.5% for May 2007 compared to rate of 3.7% for May 2006.

Further analysis reveals that in the 12 months since May 2006 some of the most deprived wards have experienced a reduction in unemployment. Although still above national average figures for wards such as Ince, Newtown and Norley have seen unemployment decrease from 7.2%, 7.5% and 8.6% respectively to 4.8%, 5.0% and 5.6% betwee n May 2006 and May 2007.

Opportunities

Progress on Employment Sites

Wigan Pier Quarter: Agreement has been reached to dispose of The Way We Were building on its closure in December 2007. The ERO has co-ordinated the design and production of material for the disposal of the building. This will be used as part of the marketing strategy to take the building to the marketplace as a commercial opportunity in July.

Makerfield Way, Ince: The 21,000 sq ft of new commercial units by Units UK are now complete. Negotiations continue with the same developer for the purchase of the remaining 3 acres, with a view to constructing another 32,292 sq ft of floor space on this plot. The outstanding environmental works should commence in the next 6 months as the development progresses, following the purchase of a small piece of land which forms an access to the other site. These will be the next phase of development under this project, and will secure more outputs within the next 12 to 18 months.

South Lancs Industrial Estate Extension, Ashton: Patrick Properties has been assembling land ownership adjacent to the South Lancs Industrial Estate. The adjacent land, known as South Lancs Industrial Estate Extension, is an allocated employment site within the current Unitary Development Plan. A paper was presented to Cabinet requesting authorisation to sell a piece of land to Patrick Properties. The sale of this land would facilitate bringing forward Phase 1 of the development.

Enquiries

The total number of enquiries received by the Property Finder Service during the period April to June 2007 was 175.

An example of enquiries received during this period include:

ƒ An engineering company requiring land to construct a training centre and machinery workshop; ƒ A component company looking for a warehouse for distribution; ƒ Small media company looking for premises as the company expands; ƒ Successful plumbing services company requiring up to 12,000 sq ft due to the expansion of their business; ƒ Building contractor requiring town centre office space to fulfil a two year contract; ƒ A food company requiring storage space; ƒ A design and manufacturing company seeking up to 10,000 sq ft on a freehold basis.

Twenty seven properties were let and 5 were sold in the period April to June 2007. These were predominately office and industrial premises with some small retail shops being taken. Issues and constraints

Employment land shortfall (Primary Employment Areas)

How could the Local Development Framework respond? Ensure that existing employment allocations and clusters have improved accessibility and future employment sites are developed to meet future employment needs of local communities. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic reviews) Economic Development

Table E4 Title Migrant Workers Report Proponent body Wigan Partnership and Wigan Council Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2006 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? During the autumn of 2006 Wigan Borough Partnership and Wigan Council therefore supported a survey of Eastern European migrant workers in the Borough. The survey was based on a model trialled in East Lancashire, and combined statistical evidence with the views of private, public and third sector agencies that come into contact with Eastern European migrants. The survey does not claim to be comprehensive, but does give an indication of the current picture. In this report the Wigan survey is set in the context of national and regional information to paint a picture of what these new patterns of migration and exchange between partner nations in the EU mean for us in Wigan.

During November 2006 a survey was carried out, on behalf of Wigan Borough Partnership and Wigan Council, around migrant workers in Wigan Borough. Based on a model used in East Lancashire, the aim was to explore the experiences local agencies were having of migrant workers in the Borough. We recognised that the survey could not be comprehensive – but it has given us an insight into the experiences of a range of organisations (from employers and statutory service providers to voluntary and community sector support agencies) that come into contact with Eastern European migrants. Key messages, requirements and objectives • Over 800 people in the Wigan Borough are registered on the WRS (at September 2006), suggesting that we may have close to 2,000 Eastern European migrants in the Borough. • Migrant workers seem to be widely dispersed across the Borough, both in terms of employment and housing. Whereas asylum seekers have focussed around Leigh, and to a lesser extent the Pemberton area, migrant workers are present in significant numbers in Wigan North and South Townships, Leigh, and in smaller numbers in nearly all of the other settlements in the Borough. Opportunities • Wigan is steadily becoming a more cosmopolitan Borough. People are coming to live and work in Wigan from all over the world, and not just as asylum seekers or refugees. Leaving aside Eastern European countries, in 2005-6 National Insurance numbers were issued in Wigan to between 10 and 20 people from South Africa, from France, China, New Zealand, Iran, Thailand, Iraq, Libya, Myanmar (Burma) and India (which recorded over 110 registrations). Other registrations included people from (amongst other places) Australia, Germany, Nigeria, Portugal, Italy, Philippines, Zimbabwe and Turkey. • Opportunities to use existing structures to build on networks e.g. libraries. • Promote access to playgroups to help integration, language, etc. • Work ethos of migrants is very good – employers are very happy with their work record. • A number of agencies express a desire to be supportive and pro-active in engaging and working with Eastern European migrants Issues and constraints

• It seems that, from an initial stage when Eastern European migrants were single males, more women, partners and families are coming into the Borough – which should provide more opportunities for sharing and integration. • Most workers are over-qualified for the mainly manual jobs they are doing – and therefore have under-used skills. Over time this may lead to migrants making better use of their skills or setting up their own businesses, but there is not a great deal of evidence of this at present. • Since EU enlargement in May 2004, people from Eastern European countries have been coming in significant numbers to live and work in the Borough. The presence of these economic migrants is a new element in the cultural diversity of our Borough, but we have had no easy way of monitoring numbers or needs of these individuals and families – and at the same time, scare stories have emerged from some parts of Britain suggesting that migrant workers are arriving in such numbers as to put pressure on statutory and other services. • Issues with accuracy of figures produced by the Workers Registration Scheme (WRS) suggesting that there are many more migrant workers in the UK than the 427,00 identified by the WRS in mid 2006. In addition these figures are based on place of work rather than residence. • issues regarding the quality of education compared to English qualifications and language barriers. • Evidence of poor health in young people and specific health needs amongst different ethnic groups. • In terms of accommodation, many migrant workers seem to be living in multiple occupation properties in poor condition, and tensions may result because of the nature and location of these properties – unlike with asylum seekers, we have no way of influencing the settlement pattern of migrant workers in the Borough. • Issues with housing affordability in rented sector, lack of control on where migrants live and therefore balanced and mixed communities are not being achieved, most migrants live in areas of deprivation which brings its own tensions. • Long-term residents of the Borough from minority ethnic communities have little in common with new migrants • Perceptions blurred of EU migrants and asylum seekers and accusations of taking local accommodation, jobs, etc • There are no dedicated funding streams to support work with Eastern European migrants – and no obvious “lead responsibility” agency How could the Local Development Framework respond? • Ensure the evidence base incorporates the housing needs of migrants and asylum seekers • Ensure that provision of housing is related to need a located in balanced and mixed communities. • Ensure that the development of a knowledge economy considers the skills base available from migrant workers. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Incorporate issues into the sustainability framework by creating a headline objective that considers the following: community cohesion & development, equality and diversity. Cross references (General) Cross Reference (Topic reviews) ƒ Housing ƒ Retail and centres ƒ Demographics

Table E5 Title Wigan Tourism Strategy 2004 - 2009 (Draft) Proponent body Wigan Leisure Trust Status (e.g. statutory, non- Non Statutory statutory) Date produced 2003 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Destination Wigan Strategy builds on the borough’s first strategy ‘Tourism for Tomorrow’ which focussed mainly in the development of the tourism infrastructure required to build a viable tourism destination. Destination Wigan looks to build on the borough’s inherent strengths and character and provide a clear focus for progressing tourism locally through until 2009. Implementation of this strategy will require co-ordination and partnership working across a local and sub-regional (Greater Manchester) level with leadership provided by Wigan Tourism Unit. Underpinning this vision are 2 cross cutting themes: ‘Excellence’ and ‘Winning’. Both have been extracted from the North West Tourism Vision which provides the framework for the development of this strategy. Key messages, requirements & objectives To build on the borough’s inherent strengths and character and provide a clear focus for progressing tourism locally through until 2009. Opportunities • 2001 STEAM tourism impact figures showed that the Wigan Borough is currently the 3rd most valuable and the fastest growing tourism destination within Greater Manchester (outside of the City of Manchester), reporting a year on year increase in tourism business of 22% to £193.65M. • Wigan is a popular day visitor destination with 45% of local tourism business relating to day visits. • The borough has a range of products that are attractive to the emerging and high yielding grey and business tourism markets. • Wigan Town Centre is well positioned strategically to benefit from the expected growth in rail and bus travel. • Within the Borough, tourism is an industry that the Council and its partners take seriously. The local authority in particular has put a great deal of dedication and investment into developing the tourism potential of the borough. • The Regional centres of Manchester and Liverpool provide a significant opportunity for Wigan to “piggy back” onto other tourism strategies • Sports and Business Tourism has seen very good performances. • Technology is having a significant influence on the location and way that destination and booking information is used and will require Tourist information Centres adapt to changing markets. Issues and constraints • It is predicted over the next 5 years, that growth will slowly level out and that the borough will fall in the Greater Manchester tourism league table, mainly due to increasing local competition by destinations, particularly within the Manchester city pride sub-region. • Cultural day visitor attractions including museums are expected to continue to see a decline in visitors, mainly due to the proliferation in competition over the past 10 years and changing consumer interests. How could the Local Development Frameowrk respond? • To ensure that the Core Strategy and related DPDs provide specific scope for tourism to drive the development and regeneration of the borough. Implications for the sustainability appraisal

Consider including tourism as a series of sub-questions to sustainability objectives. Including access to environmental resources. Draft targets identified are as follows. By the start of 2009 we will achieve − 1.4 million tourism visits per annum. − £225.5 M visitor spend per annum − 7400 people directly employed in local tourism. Cross references (General) Cross references (Topic reviews) Wigan Community plan Wigan unitary Development Plan

Statistics Table F1 Title Annual Business Inquiry Proponent body Office of National Statistics Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2005 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Annual Business Inquiry statistics offer good baseline knowledge on sector growth and decline patterns in the borough. This provides a yardstick for planners in determining what types of development may be located in the borough and the amount of land needed to accommodate this. Key messages, requirements, objectives Area 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Creative / Digital / New Media 2,500 2,400 2,900 2,800 2,500 2,900 2,900 2,600 Financial & Professional Services 6,300 6,700 7,800 7,900 8,200 9,200 10,000 8,900 ICT Digital / Communications 1,200 1,200 1,300 1,600 1,500 1,800 2,000 1,900 Life Science 12,00 Industries 10,300 10,800 11,200 12,600 11,500 11,200 11,400 0 14,80 Manufacturing 20,900 21,000 21,400 19,100 18,500 16,800 16,800 0 Construction (including architecture) 8,500 7,200 8,000 8,100 8,600 8,400 9,700 8,000 Education 6,500 7,100 7,700 8,100 7,700 7,900 7,700 8,200 Hospitality & Tourism 5,300 5,400 5,400 6,000 6,700 7,000 5,400 6,700 Logistics 3,500 4,000 5,200 5,700 5,000 6,300 4,200 4,100 Public Services 5,300 5,000 4,600 4,700 4,700 4,200 4,500 4,200 16,20 Retail 12,800 13,100 13,700 13,400 12,800 13,300 14,200 0 Sport 900 1,100 1,100 1,100 1,100 1,200 1,400 2,000 Total employees (excl self- 101,5 employed) 92,900 95,500 99,700 100,200 98,300 99,800 100,700 00

• There are existing high concentrations of logistics business in Wigan, reflecting its’ strategic location for the sector. This is likely to remain.

• Wigan is over-represented in the food products; textiles and leather; other mineral products; and constructions sectors. The Borough does, however, have less employees in utilities and several of the Business Service sectors, with the overall figure for this key sector being a quarter below the national average.

• There is increasing evidence for demand in Wigan (where the West Coast Main Line, M6 and other major roads converge); for Finance, professional and ICT Digital services.

• The latest Annual Business Inquiry data 2004 – 2005 identifies:-

• Key decrease experienced in Manufacturing between 2004 / 2005 (-1,900 employees / -11.4%). This is a large decrease considering that the number of employees in manufacturing had been steady between 2003 and 2004, at around 16,800. Construction decreased by –1,700employees (-17.4%). This large decrease may be in part, a readjustment due to the unexpectedly high increase between 2003 and 2004, of 1,300. The losses experienced in Financial and Professional Services (-1,100 / -11.4%) is at odds with the upward trend of consistent year on year increases and strong growth of 7.9% per annum between 1998 and 2004.

• Major employee increases in Retail (+2,000 / 14.4%) over 2004 / 2005. This is a clear acceleration of the upward trend (with a previous stable net ‘in year’ increase of 1.8% between 1998 and 2004). Large increase within Hospitality and Tourism (+1,300 / 24.0%), which may be explained as a readjustment back to

employee levels pre-2004, before the unexpected decrease between 2003 and 2004 (1,600).

• In more detail:

• Within Manufacturing, the largest decreases occurred in: manufacturing of food and beverages (-600), with smaller scale decreases across several other manufacturing sub-sectors. • The key losses within Construction were within: general construction of buildings and civil engineering works (-1,000) (particularly within workplaces with 200+ employees) and the installation of electrical wiring and fittings (-300). • In Financial and Professional Services, the largest increases occurred in labour recruitment and provision of personnel (-500) and: other monetary intermediation (- 300). • The key increase within Retail was in retail sales via mail order houses (+1,800). • The key increases within Hospitality and Tourism were in bars (+1,000) and restaurants (+500). • Other notable changes between 2004 / 2005 included an decrease compulsory social security activities (-600), and gains in sic7470: industrial cleaning (+700) and the operation of sports arenas and stadiums (+500). • Significant increase in the number of employees in workplaces of 200+ between 2004 and 2005 in Wigan (+1,000 / +3.9%pa). The largest increases were within retail trade and recreational, cultural and sporting activities. • The one notable decrease between 2004 and 2005 in Wigan was within workplaces employing 11-49 employees (-800 / -3.0%pa). The main components of loss were within construction and recreational, cultural and sporting activities.

Creative / Digital / New Media

2% 3% Financial & Professional Services 10% 18% ICT Digital / Communications 2% Life Science Industries

Manufacturing 13% 5% Construction (including architecture)

5% Education

Hospitality & Tourism

7% Logistics 17% Public Services 9% 9% Retail

Sport

Opportunities To move the borough towards and knowledge economy whilst modernising traditional sectors such as manufacturing. Other growth areas include Hospitality and Tourism which could provide a strong foundation for revitalising the borough’s centres. Issues / Constraints Some issues identified with the quality of the data when assessed against the Greater Manchester Forecasting Model. How could the Local Development Framework respond To explore options for providing new employment land and premises ‘packages’ to meet the needs of a modernising economy. The framework can also set out options for its centres and determine what types of employment uses are best suited to those locations other than those identified in Planning Policy Statement 6. Implications for the sustainability appraisal

Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline / monitoring position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Table F2 Title 2006 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings Proponent body Office of National Statistics Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2006 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) provides information about the levels, distribution and make-up of earnings and hours paid for employees in all industries and occupations.

The volumes contain UK data on earnings for employees by sex and full-time/part-time workers. Further breakdowns include by region; occupation; industry; region by occupation; and age-groups, for the following variables: gross weekly pay, gross hourly pay, gross annual pay, weekly pay excluding overtime, hourly pay excluding overtime, overtime pay, gross paid hours and paid overtime hours. Key messages, requirements & objectives Analysis by Government Office Region by Occupation Overall • The North West Region saw a (mean) 4.2% annual increase in the gross wage of employees in 2006. This compares favourably against the national average of 3.9%. • However the (mean) gross wage in the North West still lags behind the national in 2006. The difference being £22,293 and £24,301 respectively.

Male Workers • Within the North West, male workers saw a (mean) gross wage increase of 4.3% compared to a national (mean) increase of 3.7% in 2006. • This took the North West (mean) annual wage figure up to £25,652 which is still below the £30,689 national mean wage for males in 2006.

Female Workers • For female workers in the North West, the (mean) annual gross wage increased by 3.4%, which was lower than the national figure of 4.3%. • This took the North West (mean) annual wage figure for 2006, up to £16,665, which remained below the £17,758 national mean wage for females.

Analysis by Industry

Sector North West Mean Comparison North West Comparison Annual % Wage with National Mean Wage with National Change Average % -/+ (£) Average £ -/+ ALL EMPLOYEES +4.2 +0.3 22,293 -2,008

Manufacturing +2.4 -1.2 26,491 -209 Electricity, Gas and -7.4 -9.2 38,061 +6,150 Water Supply Construction +7.1 +2.1 26,886 +370 Wholesale and Retail +1.7 +0.9 16,860 -1,213 Trade Hotels and Restaurants +12.6 +7.1 11,368 -1,585 Transport, Storage and Communication +6.9 +3.7 21,357 -1,484

Financial +6.1 +0.6 27,923 -17,600 Real Estate, Renting and Business Activities +6.7 +1.7 25,517 -5,151 Public Administration +4.7 +2.5 23,837 -1,698 Education +2.9 - 20,598 +192 Health and Social Work +4.0 -1.5 20,183 -364 Social and Personal -10.4 -15 19,094 -3,070 Activities

Analysis by Place of Work by Local Authority

Overall • In 2006 the annual (mean) gross wages of employees in Wigan increased by 3.5%. However this was lower than the sub-regional increase of 5.5% for

Greater Manchester and the 4.2% increase for the North West.

• The (mean) gross wage of employees in Wigan for 2006 was £19,898. Thus the Borough lags behind the sub regional average for Greater Manchester, £23,193 and the regional average of the North West £22,293.

Male Workers • Male workers in Wigan saw an annual (mean) gross wage increase of 3.8% in 2006; compared to a Greater Manchester increase of 5.9% and a North West increase of 4.3%.

• This took the male (mean) wage figure for 2006 up to £25,652. However this still remains below the £28,783 mean for Greater Manchester but higher than the £21,900 mean for the North West.

Female Workers • Female workers in Wigan saw an annual (mean) gross wage increase of 2.5% in 2006; compared to a Greater Manchester increase of 3.7% and a North West increase of 3.4%.

• This took the female mean wage figure for 2006 up to £14,761. However this is still below the £17,416 mean for Greater Manchester and the £16,665 mean for the North West.

Opportunities To provide employment land and premises that attract inward investment and lead to increased average earnings Issues and constraints The borough still has relatively low skilled work force and therefore this will constrain increases in average earnings. How could the Local Development Framework respond? Ensure framework helps deliver a strong growing economy to help increase average earnings in line with national average. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans. Consider indicators for appraisal framework.

Table F3 Title Business Closure rates Proponent body Small Business Services Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Non statutory Date produced 2005 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The indicator presents the percentage of businesses that have deregistered for VAT within the last year. This data is derived from annual workplace estimates based on the Inter Departmental Business Register (IDBR)

The indicator is calculated by Businesses deregistering for VAT 2005/ All VAT registered businesses 2005) x 100. Key messages, requirements, objectives

Business closure rate (2005)

District %

Manchester 11.35

Bury 9.84

Bolton 9.11

Salford 9.11

Trafford 8.65

Rochdale 8.54

Stockport 8.53

Oldham 8.28

Tameside 8.18

Wigan 7.92

Great Britain 8.43

Source: Local Knowledge; Business start-ups and closures: VAT registrations and deregistrations

Opportunities To maintain and further improve Wigan’s strong business closure rates and to encourage entrepreneurialism and development of Small and Media Sized Enterprises. Issues / Constraints This data only shows VAT registered companies and thus excludes many small businesses and 'one man bands'. This data is derived from annual workplace estimates based on the Inter Departmental Business Register (IDBR). The IDBR is a register of 2.1 million of the 3.8 million UK VAT/PAYE registered businesses. How could the Local Development Framework respond To explore options to provide suitable land and premises for entrepreneurial businesses such as those in the B1 office, research and light industrial/ small scale general industry (B2). Explore potential for development of employment/ cultural clusters and incubator units etc. In addition to provide a range and choice of different premises types and rents for all forms of start up businesses as well as improved / larger premises for existing business looking to expand. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Table F4 Title New Business Survival Rates Proponent body Small Business Services Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Non statutory Date produced 2003 - 2005 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The indicator presents the proportion of businesses still registered for VAT 24 months after their initial registration. This is based on registrations and deregistrations of VAT- based enterprises, and is calculated from data collected from the Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR)

Data is mainly supplied at district level. Key messages, requirements, objectives

New business survival rate (24 months from 2003) (2003-2005)

District %

Bolton 82.00

Oldham 82.00

Salford 82.00

Trafford 82.00

Bury 81.00

Tameside 81.00

Wigan 81.00

Rochdale 80.00

Stockport 80.00

Manchester 76.00

Great Britain 80.19

Source: Local Knowledge; Survival rates of VAT registered businesses Opportunities To improve the business survival rates to below the national average through good location of business to potential workforces and premises that suits the need of the size and scale of business. Issues / Constraints The IDBR is a register of 2.1 million of the 3.8 million UK VAT/PAYE registered businesses. This data has good overall coverage - although this data on shows VAT registered companies and thus excludes many small businesses and 'one man bands' How could the Local Development Framework respond To explore options to provide suitable land and premises for entrepreneurial businesses such as those in the B1 office, research and light industrial/ small scale general industry (B2). Explore potential for development of employment/ cultural clusters and incubator

units etc. In addition to provide a range and choice of different premises types and rents for all forms of start up businesses as well as improved / larger premises for existing business looking to expand. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Table F5 Title New Business Formation Rate Proponent body Small Business Services Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Non statutory Date produced 2005 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The percentage of businesses that have registered for VAT within the last year. This data is derived from annual workplace estimates based on the Inter Departmental Business Register (IDBR)

((registered business stock 2005/ stock at start of the year 2005) x 100 Key messages, requirements, objectives

New business formation rate (2005)

District %

Tameside 12.00

Manchester 11.89

Salford 11.67

Trafford 11.60

Bury 11.24

Rochdale 10.90

Wigan 10.78

Stockport 10.36

Bolton 10.20

Oldham 10.19

Great Britain 9.82

Source: Local Knowledge; Business start-ups and closures: VAT registrations and deregistrations Opportunities To increase the formation rate Issues / Constraints This data only shows VAT registered companies and thus excludes many small businesses and 'one man bands'. This data is derived from annual workplace estimates based on the Inter Departmental Business Register (IDBR).The IDBR is a register of 2.1 million of the 3.8 million UK VAT/PAYE registered businesses. How could the Local Development Framework respond

To explore options to provide suitable land and premises for entrepreneurial businesses such as those in the B1 office, research and light industrial/ small scale general industry (B2). Explore potential for development of employment/ cultural clusters and incubator units etc. In addition to provide a range and choice of different premises types and rents for all forms of start up businesses as well as improved / larger premises for existing business looking to expand. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Table F6 Title Gross Added Value per head Proponent body Department for Trade and Industry Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Non statutory Date produced 2004 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? GVA per head gives an indication of the relative level of productivity per person in an area

Gross Value Added per Head = (GVA/Number of people in employment in region) Key messages, requirements, objectives

Gross Value Added per head (2004)

District per head

Manchester 23,088.64

Trafford 22,129.22

Salford 20,359.85

Stockport 19,950.05

Tameside 17,819.09

Rochdale 11,494.37

Oldham 10,763.91

Bolton 10,674.35

Bury 10,643.56

Wigan 10,567.99

Great Britain 18,272.55

Source: Local Knowledge; GVA by NUTS 3 areas at current basic prices; Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings

Opportunities To significantly improve the borough productivity Issues / Constraints Borough has an over reliance on traditional/ declining sectors and its knowledge economy is in its infancy. How could the Local Development Framework respond

To explore options to provide suitable land and premises for entrepreneurial businesses such as those in the B1 office, research and light industrial/ small scale general industry (B2). Explore potential for development of employment/ cultural clusters and incubator units etc. In addition to provide a range and choice of different premises types and rents for all forms of start up businesses as well as improved / larger premises for existing business looking to expand. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Table F7 Title Incapacity benefits claimants per 000 16+ population Proponent body Nomis Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Non statutory Date produced 2006 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? This indicator provides a figure for the number of people receiving incapacity benefits within the area. It is paid to people who are assessed as being incapable of work and who meet the same contribution conditions as for Sickness Benefit. This indicator provides the figure per 1000 within the working age population in any given area and is therefore comparable across localities

(Number of incapacity benefit claimants)/(Total population 16-64/1000)

The Department for Work and Pensions collect records from Social Security benefits they administer. A 5% sample is used within this release to provide quarterly figures. Raw data has been rounded to the nearest 100. The indicator is provided as an expression per 000 of the population aged between 16 and 64. The population figures are taken from the 2001 Census results. The results are also released annually from the DWP at SOA level Key messages, requirements, objectives

Incapacity benefits claimants per 000 16+ population (November 2006)

District per 000 16

Wigan 39.00

Rochdale 33.00

Tameside 33.00

Oldham 30.00

Salford 30.00

Bolton 28.00

Bury 26.00

Manchester 25.00

Stockport 21.00

Trafford 21.00

Great Britain 20.15

Source: Local Knowledge; DWP Benefits

Opportunities To significantly reduce the amount of people claiming incapacity benefit and to get them into employment. Issues / Constraints Wigan has high degree of long term illness and health problems. Issues with claimants not being incentivised to get back into employment. How could the Local Development Framework respond To provide land and premises that attract diverse range of business across the borough that are accessible and meet local community employment needs. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Table F8 Title Long term unemployment as a proportion of all unemployment (12 months+) Proponent body Nomis Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2007 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The proportion of people aged 16-59/64 (men/women) claiming Job Seekers Allowance or National Insurance Credits who have been doing so for 12 months and over. This data is residence based

(unemployed 12 months (claiming for over 12 months)+/all unemployed) x 100 Key messages, requirements, objectives

Long-term unemployment as a proportion of all unemployment (12 months+) (June 2007)

District %

Salford 17.84

Wigan 16.75

Stockport 15.22

Manchester 15.09

Rochdale 13.32

Bolton 13.15

Oldham 12.17

Tameside 11.02

Trafford 10.33

Bury 9.49

Great Britain 16.93

Source: Local Knowledge; Claimant counts with rates and proportions Opportunities To reduce instances of long term employment Issues / Constraints The claimant count measures only those people who are claiming unemployment-related benefits (Jobseeker's Allowance). Overall, the data is a good account as it is based on administrative records. How could the Local Development Framework respond Ensure opportunities for developing skills whilst securing a diverse range of accessible employment opportunities that meet local employment needs. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position.

May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.

Table F9 Title Unemployment rate (June 2007) Proponent body Eurostat Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory) Date produced 2007 Why is it relevant to the Local Development Framework? The proportion of people aged 16-59/64 (men/women) claiming Job Seekers Allowance or National Insurance Credits. The higher the score, the more unemployed in a given area. This indicator is an official Performance Indicator - ECR2a

Unemployment Rate = (total unemployed/total labour force) x 100

Unemployment rate indicates the number of unemployed as a percentage of the total labour force. Unemployment is defined by the Internal Labour Organisation as people aged 15 years and above who are not in work but have made serious efforts to find work. Key messages, requirements, objectives

Unemployment rate (June 2007)

District %

Manchester 3.70

Oldham 3.00

Salford 3.00

Rochdale 2.90

Bolton 2.60

Tameside 2.40

Wigan 2.40

Bury 2.00

Stockport 1.70

Trafford 1.70

Great Britain 2.29

Source: Local Knowledge; Claimant count with rates and proportions

Opportunities To get the unemployment rate below the national average. Issues / Constraints

Skill levels need to be improved across the borough to meet the needs of a changing economy. How could the Local Development Framework respond Ensure opportunities for developing skills whilst securing a diverse range of accessible employment opportunities that meet local employment needs. Implications for the sustainability appraisal Provides detailed information useful for establishing and updating the baseline position. May also be useful for appraisal of specific policies or plans.