ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
25 May 2017
Dear Sir/Madam
You are hereby invited to attend a meeting of the Ards and North Down Borough Council which will be held in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor on Wednesday, 31 May 2017 commencing at 7.00pm.
Yours faithfully
Stephen Reid Chief Executive Ards and North Down Borough Council
A G E N D A
1. Prayer
2. Apologies
3. Declarations of Interest
4. Mayor’s Business
5. Mayor and Deputy Mayor Engagements for the Month (To be tabled)
6. Minutes of Meeting of Council dated 26 April 2017 (Copy attached)
7. Minutes of Committees (Copies attached)
7.1. Planning Committee dated 2 May 2017 7.2. Environment Committee dated 3 May 2017 7.3. Regeneration and Development Committee dated 4 May 2017
ITEM 7.3.1 ***IN CONFIDENCE***
7.3.1 Design Review for Redburn Square, Holywood Public Realm (Report attached)
7.4. Corporate Services Committee dated 9 May 2017 7.5. Community and Wellbeing Committee dated 10 May 2017
8. Request for Delegated Powers
8.1. Delegation of Licensing Powers to Environment Committee (Report attached)
9. Conferences, Invitations etc.
9.1. Equality Commission Public Sector Conference: Promoting Accessible Services – Wednesday 24 May 2017 at Malone House, Belfast (Correspondence attached)
9.2. Somme Commemoration Service – Sunday 2 July 2017 at the War Memorial, Ward Park, Bangor (Correspondence attached)
9.3. Andy Allen Veterans Support Charity Event – Saturday 5 August 2017 at La Mon House Hotel (Correspondence attached)
9.4. NI Construction Industry Group Professionals Council Signature Event – Water, Water Everywhere – Planning for Future Water Management in Northern Ireland – Thursday 1 June 2017 at Newforge Country Club (Correspondence attached)
9.5 NILGA – Regional Pay Briefing – Northern Ireland Councils – July 2017 (Correspondence attached)
9.6 Somme Commemoration (Report attached)
10. Update on Proposed Additional Beach Award Applications (Report attached)
11. Resolution
11.1 Fermanagh and Omagh District Council re Restatement of the Area of Natural Constraint Scheme (Correspondence attached)
12. Transfers of Rights of Burial
13. Sealing Documents
14. Notice of Motions Status Report (Copy attached)
15. Notice of Motions
15.1. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Wilson
“That this Council recognises the problems caused by frequently recurring bridge strikes on the Ballysallagh Road and writes to Transport NI to ask for further preventative measures to be put in place”.
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15.2. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Robinson
“That this council agrees to support the on-going review of the provision Defibrillators across its estate and that following this review officers bring back proposals on remedying any gaps that may be identified in relation to provision and training in their deployment. Furthermore, by bringing together local campaign groups, charities and other key stakeholders, to consider as part of the aforementioned proposals, actions that will ensure that our borough provides adequate numbers of Publicly Accessed Defibrillators in our town centres, shopping centres and highly populated workplaces, plus other areas of high public footfall”.
15.3. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Robinson
“As a follow up to the recent Good Relations Conference on Hate Crimes held locally, this Council supports the PCSP initiative of the No Hate Here! Campaign, with the aim of ensuring that hate crimes of any nature will not be tolerated within our Council area. Further, we will work alongside all relevant statutory agencies, and our local Chamber of Trade, to ensure our aim is achieved”.
15.4. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor McIlveen and Councillor Kennedy
“That Officers bring forward a plan, in association with the Council’s community and statutory partners, to provide education regarding the danger of fire and fire- setting and on actions which could be taken to prevent the wanton damage caused by fire to the natural environment around the leadmines as a result of deliberate or reckless actions”.
15.5. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Dunne
“That this Council maintains the existing kerb line outside the Fold/Radius Housing Building and Orange Hall at Redburn Square, Holywood as part of the Public Realm Works, in order to facilitate the free movement of vehicles including buses within Redburn Square”.
15.6. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Woods and Councillor Barry
“That this Council, in recognising the importance of diverting usable food from waste, and the significant part that food plays within our community supports the work of Fareshare and actively promotes it within the Borough. In doing so, this Council will support the work of local groups and volunteers who wish to engage with Fareshare by assisting and advising them, so in turn they may support those that may be vulnerable”.
ITEMS 16 – 19 *** IN CONFIDENCE ***
16. Update on Regina Caelis (Report to follow)
17. Update on Recruitment of Director Posts (Report attached)
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18. Queen’s Parade Development – Update (Report attached)
19. Leisure Facilities Operating Contract (Report to follow)
Circulated for Information
(a) Press Release – Launch of Recruitment Competition for Independent Assessors for the Commissioner for Public Appointments (Copy attached)
(b) Department for Infrastructure – Disabled Persons Parking Places on Roads – Shore Road, Portaferry (Correspondence attached)
(c) Public Appointments Annual Report for Northern Ireland 2015/16 (Correspondence attached)
MEMBERSHIP OF ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
Alderman Carson Councillor Dunne Alderman Fletcher Councillor Douglas Alderman Gibson Councillor Edmund Alderman Girvan (Mayor) Councillor Ferguson Alderman Graham Councillor Gilmour Alderman Henry Councillor Kennedy Alderman Irvine Councillor Leslie Alderman Keery (Deputy Mayor) Councillor Martin Alderman McDowell Councillor McAlpine Alderman Smith Councillor McClean Councillor Adair Councillor McIlveen Councillor Allen Councillor Menagh Councillor Armstrong-Cotter Councillor Muir Councillor Barry Councillor Robinson Councillor Boyle Councillor Smart Councillor Brooks Councillor T Smith Councillor Cathcart Councillor Thompson Councillor Chambers Councillor Walker Councillor Cooper Councillor Wilson Councillor Cummings Councillor Woods
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ITEM 6
ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
A meeting of the Ards and North Down Borough Council was held in the Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor on Wednesday, 26 April 2017 commencing at 7.00pm.
PRESENT:
In the Chair: The Mayor (Alderman Girvan)
Aldermen: Carson Irvine Gibson Keery Graham McDowell Henry
Councillors: Adair Kennedy Allen Leslie Armstrong-Cotter Martin Barry McAlpine Boyle McIlveen Brooks Menagh Cathcart Muir Chambers Robinson Cooper Smart Cummings T Smith Dunne Thompson Douglas Walker Edmund Wilson Gilmour Woods
Officers: Chief Executive (S Reid), Director of Community and Wellbeing (G Bannister), Director of Environment (D Lindsay), Director of Organisational Development and Administration (W Monson), Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning (C Mahon), Interim Director of Finance and Performance (J Pentland), Corporate Communications Manager (C Jackson), Democratic Services Manager (J Wilson) and Democratic Services Officer (P Foster)
PRAYER
The Mayor (Alderman Girvan) welcomed everyone to the meeting and invited the Chief Executive to commence the meeting by reading the Council prayer.
NOTED.
C.26.04.17PM
APOLOGIES
Apologies were received from Aldermen Fletcher and M Smith and Councillors Ferguson and McClean.
NOTED.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
The Mayor asked for any declarations of interest.
Councillor McAlpine declared an interest in Item 14 – Replacement Ards Leisure Facility – Appointment of a Quality Inspector
NOTED.
MAYOR’S BUSINESS
The Mayor took the opportunity to express her sympathy on the recent death of Mr David Clarke, the Council’s former Director of Finance and Performance, and advised that his funeral had taken place the previous day. She indicated that it would be her intention to send a letter of condolence to his wife Jacqui and the wider family circle.
NOTED.
The Mayor reminded members of the study visit to Bryson House, Belfast to take place on Tuesday 16 May 2017 and asked that anyone interested in attending replied by Friday 5 May 2017.
NOTED.
At this stage the Mayor wished to draw members’ attention to the ongoing delivery of the new recycling packs to households throughout the Borough.
The Director of Environment referred members to the bins on display in the Council Chamber commenting that the members of the Environment Committee had felt it may be helpful to have the bins on display for the benefit of all.
NOTED.
The Mayor then drew members’ attention to the flyers which had been circulated promoting her Charity Ball to take place on Saturday 27 May 2017 at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, Bangor. Continuing she noted that to date £16,000 had been raised for her charities and added that it was her hope to raise £21,000 so that she could allocate £7,000 to each of her three chosen charities.
NOTED.
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MAYOR AND DEPUTY MAYOR ENGAGEMENTS FOR THE MONTH (APPENDIX I)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Copy of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor Engagements for the month of April 2017.
The Mayor commented that it had been an extremely busy month and noted that next month would be the last in her term of office as Mayor of Ards and North Down Borough Council.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Douglas, seconded by Councillor Boyle, that the information be noted.
MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 29 MARCH 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Copy of the above minutes.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Robinson, seconded by Alderman Carson, that the minutes be agreed as a correct record.
MINUTES OF COMMITTEES
7.1. Audit Committee dated 27 March 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Copy of the above minutes.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Gilmour, seconded by Alderman Irvine, that the minutes be noted.
7.2. Planning Committee dated 4 April 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Copy of the above minutes.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Alderman McDowell, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the minutes be noted.
7.3. Environment Committee dated 5 April 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Copy of the above minutes.
Item 9 – Page 14 – Provision of Portable Toilets at Millisle Beach Park
Councillor Thompson welcomed the decision of the Committee to defer the matter for one month.
NOTED.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Barry, seconded by Councillor Cummings, that the minutes be adopted.
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7.4. Regeneration and Development Committee dated 6 April 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Copy of the above minutes.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Adair, seconded by Councillor Woods, that the minutes be adopted.
7.5. Corporate Services Committee dated 11 April 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Copy of the above minutes.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor McIlveen, seconded by Councillor Chambers, that the minutes be adopted.
7.6. Community and Wellbeing Committee dated 12 April 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Copy of the above minutes.
Item 18.1 – Page 30 - Any Other Business – Update on Playparks and Muga Funding
Councillor T Smith noted the reference to Donaghadee Sports Hub which he was aware had initially been discussed by the legacy Ards Borough Council and asked for an update on the proposals.
In response the Director of Community and Wellbeing advised that progress was being made with all four sports clubs currently on board and he indicated that a report would be brought back to Committee for consideration in due course.
Councillor T Smith proposed, seconded by Councillor Martin, that officers held some discussions with all of the local sports groups which used the existing facilities in Donaghadee about current challenges which they faced and any further support that they could be given.
AGREED.
Item 12 – Page 14 – Community Festival Fund 2017-2018
Alderman Irvine expressed concern that so many applications had not reached the pass mark of 40% and in light of that sought clarification on how those groups could appeal that decision.
The Director of Community and Wellbeing confirmed that an appeal process was in place and would involve a panel comprised of different members to those which had sat on the original assessment panel.
Concurring with the concern expressed by Alderman Irvine, Councillor Muir noted that some of the unsuccessful applications had been made by those organisers of
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C.26.04.17PM higher profile festivals. Continuing, he asked if appeals were successful where the additional funding would be drawn from.
In response, the Director of Community and Wellbeing indicated that officers would consider those budgets which were available and seek further additional funds from other alternative sources.
Councillor Boyle stated that he had raised the matter at the meeting and noted that an appeal mechanism was in place for those unsuccessful applicants and he sought clarification on where those applicants would be left in respect of their ability to receive funding following a successful appeal.
The Director of Community and Wellbeing indicated that if a Letter of Offer was not forthcoming from the Department of Communities that alternative sources of funding would need to be established.
NOTED.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Dunne, seconded by Councillor Douglas, that the minutes be adopted, subject to the above.
REQUEST FOR DEPUTATION – FILE REF:DS8
8.1. Contact NI (Appendix II)
The Chief Executive advised that correspondence had been received from Contact NI seeking an opportunity to address the Council on the development of its campaign call for a Suicide Prevention Bill for Northern Ireland based on a zero suicides approach.
RESOLVED, that the deputation be heard by the Community and Wellbeing Committee.
9. CONFERENCES, INVITATIONS ETC
9.1 Battle of Messines Centenary Pilgrimage – 6 to 9 June 2017 (Deferred from March 2017 Council Meeting – Agreed to Send Two Members (Appendix III)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Correspondence from Somme Association in respect of its Battlefield Tour for the forthcoming centenary of the Battle of Messines.
Councillor T Smith proposed, seconded by Councillor Edmund, that Councillor Leslie attends the Tour.
Alderman Carson proposed, seconded by Councillor Smart, that Alderman Henry attends the Tour.
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RESOLVED, that Councillor Leslie and Alderman Henry attend the Battle of Messines Centenary Pilgrimage Tour.
9.2. Celebrating Women in Modern Ireland: Friday 19 and Saturday 20 May 2017 (Appendix IV)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Correspondence dated 10 March 2017 from Councillor Emma Coffey on behalf of the Dundalk Widows Group in respect of its conference on the Theme of Women in Modern Ireland.
Councillor Muir proposed, seconded by Alderman McDowell, that Councillor Douglas attends the conference.
Alderman Graham rose to propose an amendment that the conference was noted.
The Chief Executive advised that as the proposal would be a direct negative to the proposal, a vote would need to be taken on whether or not a member should be appointed to attend the conference.
Councillor Muir proposed, seconded by Councillor Barry that a member was appointed to attend the conference.
As proposer, Councillor Muir stated that he was content for an elected member to attend the conference and noted there would be a number of high profile attendees at the event.
At this stage Councillor T Smith referred members to the costs associated with attendance at the conference and asked them to consider whether it represented good value for money for ratepayers. He added that he would be voting against the proposal.
With 16 voting For and 20 voting Against, the proposal fell.
RESOLVED, that the conference be noted.
9.3. Brexit and the Ireland/N Ireland Border Corridor: 4 May 2017, Enniskillen (Appendix V)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Correspondence dated13 April 2017 from East Border Region detailing a Border Corridor Event to take place on 4 May 2017 at Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor T Smith, seconded by Councillor Martin, that the conference be noted.
10. TRANSFER OF RIGHTS OF BURIAL
There were no Transfers of Rights of Burial.
NOTED. 6
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(Councillor Dunne left the meeting at this stage – 7.20pm)
11. SEALING DOCUMENTS
RESOLVED: - (On the proposal of Alderman Carson, seconded by Alderman Gibson)
THAT the Seal of the Council be affixed to the following documents: -
a) Deed of Assignment – Ards & North Down Borough Council –to- Stephen Adair & Coleen Adair b) Permission to Sell Ice Cream c) Grant of Right of Burial Nos 12309-12351 d) Transfare/Assignment on Probate or Succession of Right of Burial - Movilla Section 59 Grave 249 e) Transfare/Assignment on Probate or Succession of Right of Burial – Redburn 2958 f) Grant of Right of Burial Nos 12325 g) Portaferry Market House
(Councillor Dunne re-entered the meeting at this stage – 7.22pm)
12 .NOTICES OF MOTION STATUS REPORT – FILE REF: CG12172 (Appendix VI)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Organisational Development and Administration attaching a Status Report in respect of Notice of Motions.
This was a standing item on the Council agenda each month and its aim was to keep Members updated on the outcome of motions. Please note that as each motion was dealt with it would be removed from the report.
RECOMMENDED that the Council notes the report.
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Chambers, seconded by Councillor Boyle, that the recommendation be adopted.
13.NOTICES OF MOTION – FILE REF: CG12172
13.1.Notice of Motion Submitted by Councillor Brooks and Councillor Edmund
“That this Council establishes a body representative of stakeholders (including representatives from communities affected) and the Council to consider and advise
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C.26.04.17PM on the options on the future management and operation of harbours and slipways currently under Council ownership and control. As part of its deliberations, the body shall consider the experiences of other local authorities in the management of such assets. This advice will provide the basis of a report to Council which will take the final decision on these options.
That following a decision by the Council on the management and operation of such harbours and slipways, the Council draws up terms of reference for a representative body to provide effective oversight of the operation and management of these harbours and slipways.”
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Brooks, seconded by Councillor Edmund, that the Notice of Motion be referred to the Environment Committee.
13.2. Notice of Motion Submitted by Councillor Woods and Councillor Barry
'This council recognises that all individuals have the right to healthcare, which includes that healthcare should be physically accessible and within safe reach for all sections of the population. People should not face fear and intimidation when accessing healthcare services. Therefore, the Council condemns all harassment and intimidation taking place outside facilities in Northern Ireland that offer reproductive healthcare, including attempts to physically block access to facilities, verbal intimidation, and the filming and recording of staff and clients entering and leaving the building.'
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Woods, seconded by Councillor Barry, that the Notice of Motion be referred to the Corporate Services Committee.
13.3 Notice of Motion Submitted by Councillor Woods and Councillor Barry
“That this Council is disappointed in the outcome of the Commons vote to amend the Children and Social Work bill in order to offer protection and resettlement to lone child refugees from Europe and writes to the Home Office and the Department for Communities and Local Government urging the government to consider other options to restart the Dubs Scheme.”
RESOLVED, on the proposal of Councillor Woods, seconded by Councillor Barry, that the Notice of Motion be referred to the Corporate Services Committee.
EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED, on the proposal of Councillor Barry, seconded by Councillor Robinson, that the public/press be excluded from the meeting for the undernoted items of confidential business.
(Councillors McAlpine and Adair left the meeting at this stage – 7.24pm)
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14. REPLACEMENT ARDS LEISURE FACILITY – APPOINTMENT OF A QUALITY INSPECTOR - FILE REF: PCU24D (Appendix VII)
*** COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE ***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
15. STAFFING MATTER – VERBAL UPDATE
*** COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE ***
The Chief Executive advised that the item had been withdrawn.
NOTED.
(Councillors Adair and McAlpine re-entered the meeting at this stage – 7.25pm)
16. NEW CIVIC EVENT – VERBAL UPDATE
*** IN CONFIDENCE ***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
RE-ADMITTANCE OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED, on the proposal of Councillor Adair, seconded by Councillor Muir, that the public/press be re-admitted to the meeting.
Members were advised that in line with Section 47 (1) of the Local Government Act (Northern Ireland) 2014 the audio recording would now recommence.
Circulated for Information
(a) Department for Infrastructure – Disabled Persons Parking Places on Roads – 20 Bruce Avenue, Comber (Copy attached) (b) Department for Infrastructure – Disabled Persons Parking Places on Roads – 102 Downshire Road, Holywood (Copy attached) (c) Education Authority – Equality Screening Special Education Early Years Interim Arrangements (Copy attached)
NOTED.
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TERMINATION OF MEETING
The meeting terminated at 7.33pm.
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ITEM 7.1
ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
A meeting of the Planning Committee was held in the Council Chamber, 2 Church Street, Newtownards on Tuesday, 2 May 2017 at 7.30 pm.
PRESENT:
In the Chair: Alderman McDowell
Aldermen: Fletcher Graham Gibson Henry Girvan Keery
Councillors: Barry Smart Cathcart Thompson McIlveen Walker
Officers: Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning (C Mahon), Head of Planning (A McCullough), Principal Planner (G Kerr), Senior Planner (A Todd), Democratic Services Manager (J Wilson) and Democratic Services Officer (E Brown)
Others: Gordon Dunne MLA Des Taggart, Conway Group Richard Bowman, Strategic Planning Sheila Murphy, Northland Developments Richard White (Applicant)
WELCOME
The Chairman welcomed Members and Officers to the meeting and made a special mention of those persons with speaking rights and members of the public seated in the public gallery.
1. APOLOGIES
An apology for inability to attend was received from Alderman Carson and Councillor Dunne.
NOTED.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
The Chairman asked for any declarations of interest and none were advised.
NOTED.
PC.02.05.17
3. MATTERS ARISING
3.1 Matters Arising from Minutes of Planning Committee Meeting dated 4 April 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Copy of the above minutes.
The Chairman asked Members to indicate if there were any matters arising from the previous meeting of the Planning Committee held on 4 April 2017 and none were advised.
RESOLVED on the proposal of Alderman Girvan, seconded by Alderman Keery, that the minutes be noted.
4. PLANNING APPLICATIONS
4.1 LA06/2016/0566/F – Former Leisure Centre Site at Castle Park Avenue, Bangor
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Copy documentation (Appendix I).
. DEA: Bangor Central . Committee Interest: Local application attracting six or more separate individual representations which are contrary to the officer's recommendation and involves development on land in which the Council has an interest . Proposal: Demolition of the vacant leisure centre and erection of a new 85- bedroom hotel . Site Location: Former Leisure Centre Site at Castle Park Avenue, Bangor . Recommendation: Grant Consent
The Principal Planner detailed that the development was to be located on the vacant Bangor Leisure Centre site. It was accessed on the eastern side of Castle Park Avenue. To the north was Bangor Police Station, to the east Bangor Central Integrated Primary School. To the south was the school’s car park area and Castle Park (area of open space/park land). To the west was an area of open space/park land which was part of Castle Park (Bangor Castle) and was classified as a Historic Park, Garden and Demesne (BR 16), which also encroached into the front of the site too. Bangor Castle/Town Hall was located approximately 120m to the south west and was a Listed Building. Further to the north and across Abbey Street was the main NIR Train Station.
Continuing, the Principal Planner advised that the land was generally level across the majority of the site. The existing building was a brown brick building with a flat roof which had a modular appearance as it was segmented with various roof heights across the overall building. A mulberry tree was located to the front of the building and was the subject of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
She then detailed that the proposal involved the development of an 85-bedroom hotel occupied by Premier Inn. The building would consist of four floors with car parking to the side (north) and rear (east) with a limited number of spaces along the
2 PC.02.05.17 front (west). The building would have a hipped roof with a parapet wall and three protruding bays to break up the west and east elevations. The projecting bays would have large aluminium glazed units. The building would be finished in self-coloured render in contrasting sandstone colours to reflect those of Bangor Castle. There would be decorative banding around the ground floor with a timber clad area around the entrance and restaurant areas. The mulberry tree was to be retained and the car park and front (western) area would be landscaped with additional tree planting proposed.
The Principal Planner then provided detail about the planning policy and guidance used in the assessment of the proposal.
Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan 2015
The site was located within the settlement development limit for Bangor and within the town centre and an area of car parking restraint (BR36) as shown in the Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan 2015 (BMAP). A portion at the front of the site was also within designated zoning BR 16, which was part of Castle Park Historic Park, Garden and Demesne (BR16) and within Bangor Central local landscape policy area (BR20) however the majority of the site itself was not zoned.
Policy ENV 1 Local Landscape Policy Areas
Under BR 20 it was stated that the Listed buildings and their surroundings including the Castle (Town Hall) within Castle Park and including Castle Park itself added to the environmental quality, integrity and character of the area. Following consultation with NIEA Historic Monuments Unit and subsequent design and landscaping changes and additions, it was now considered that the proposed development would not have an adverse impact on the adjacent Local Landscape Policy Area of Bangor Central.
The redevelopment of the site would not adversely impact on the adjacent park area and the majority of the existing important vegetation would be retained and additional planting was proposed. It was considered that the proposed development, which due to the building being finished with materials more reflective of the adjacent castle building, would enhance the appearance of the site. Therefore, it was considered that the proposed development would not have any adverse impacts on any designated areas within the plan.
BMAP highlighted that while the holiday trade had decreased in the last 30 years, significant recent investment had sought to arrest the decline and tourism generated business still remained an important source of local economic growth. The Regional Development Strategy also highlighted the need to promote regeneration of town centres. This proposal would contribute to the overall regeneration of Bangor town centre.
In terms of design the applications fell within BR 41 Urban Design Criteria, Bangor Town Centre and Policy UE1 Urban Design. It was considered that the proposed development was in conformity with that criteria in that it respected the established
3 PC.02.05.17 building line, and the height of the building was 4 stores in height and the design and finishes were of a traditional character.
The Principal Planner continued that the proposed development made use of a currently redundant leisure centre site within the town centre of Bangor. It was conveniently located along the main access road between Belfast and Bangor and as such was well served by road and public transport. It was also located close to areas of tourism potential such as the Castle Park Historic Park, Garden and Demesne, Bangor Abbey and the North Down Museum and the wider Bangor seafront area. It was considered that the proposed development with nods to the Georgian era style and enhanced planting would provide a more aesthetically pleasing first impression upon arriving into Bangor from the direction of Belfast.
Continuing, she referred to the Strategic Planning Policy Statement for Northern Ireland (SPPS) which stated that hotels were a suitable town centre use. It was considered that the proposed development fulfilled the criteria contained within that guidance. Pre application discussions had been undertaken and amendments to the design had been suggested to ensure that the design and finishes were appropriate and good quality.
In concluding, the Principal Planner advised that the consultations with statutory bodies had raised no objections and any concerns raised had been satisfactorily addressed. She further advised that the objections raised during the processing of the proposal had included such issues as traffic, child safeguarding, other sites, disruption during construction, asbestos and landscaping. She reiterated that all concerns had been considered and addressed in the consideration of the proposal. Therefore, given the assessment of policy and consideration of the proposal it was recommended that planning permission be granted.
Councillor McIlveen sought clarity on the level of consultation undertaken and in particular the primary school’s involvement and its response to the amendments made to the proposals.
In response the Principal Planner advised that several meetings had been held with representatives from the primary school and the developer which had resulted in a positive outcome.
Councillor Cathcart sought clarity on the spread of representations and the focus of their concerns.
In response the Principal Planner advised that the two main concerns had been traffic and overlooking onto the school. However, given that the increased traffic would be specifically to and from the hotel, it was not a material planning consideration. Furthermore, it was unusual for a school not to be located within a residential area, which would therefore be overlooked. She noted that following consultation with the school the number of objections had significantly reduced.
In response to a query about the mature band of planting, the Principal Planner advised some that this already existed within the school boundary and one of the
4 PC.02.05.17 planning conditions was that this would be retained alongside additional new planting and replacement planting for anything removed during construction.
Alderman Girvan enquired about the proposed entrance to the hotel and the Principal Planner advised that the existing leisure centre access would be retained. She noted that no objections had been raised by Transport NI on that matter.
Alderman Girvan remarked on the current level of traffic on the proposed access route and the impact of the increased hotel traffic. The Principal Planner responded that the hotel would generate a steady flow of traffic which would be staggered throughout the day and night and would therefore not create traffic flow problems.
At this stage, the Chairman invited Mr Dunne MLA to address the Committee.
Mr Dunne thanked Members for allowing him the opportunity to speak and he welcomed the decision to grant planning permission. He noted that considerable consultation had been undertaken between planning officers and the developer which he had also been involved in. He stated that the proposal represented significant investment and the creation of jobs in the town. Furthermore, the proposal was in response to increased customer demand and he believed it would complement the Aurora facility. Continuing, he stated that Bangor continued to compete with Belfast in providing much needed accommodation for Bangor.
At this stage, the Chairman invited Mr Bowman and Mr Taggart to address the Committee.
Mr Bowman thanked members for allowing him the opportunity to speak. He stated that the PSNI had been helpful throughout the process and in particular its input had been important from a security perspective. He advised that they had met with representatives from the primary school and the Board of Governors to discuss the proposals and in particular the concerns about overlooking. He further stated that the planning objections had dissipated as the design had been amended.
At this stage Mr Taggart commented that the Conway Group had developed strong links with Premier Inn during the previous few years and he was delighted that it would be investing £7m into the town and Borough. He advised that 40 permanent jobs would be created at the hotel, as well as 80+ jobs during the construction phase. He added that Premier Inn was also delighted that planning permission had been granted and it was hoped that construction would commence in Summer 2017; that would hopefully minimise the impact on the school and the surrounding area. It was also hoped that the hotel would be completed by the end of 2018 or the beginning of 2019. He then took the opportunity to thank planning officers for their co-operation and assistance during the application process.
Rising in support, Alderman Keery welcomed the expedient construction of the hotel and he highlighted that currently competition visitors at Aurora could only be accommodated in Belfast. He queried whether the completion date could be brought forward.
5 PC.02.05.17
In response, Mr Taggart advised that they endeavoured to commence as soon as possible as it was in everyone’s interest to do so. That said, they had to set and work with realistic timescales.
Alderman Girvan sought clarity on the consultation process between the primary school and planning department.
Mr Bowman advised that consultation had commenced in early 2015 to highlight the proposals and that initial consultation had been facilitated by the Council. Subsequent consultation had been carried out in June 2016. The primary concern at that stage had been in respect of disruption to the school and as such regular meetings had been held with the school. Mr Bowman confirmed that that would continue throughout the build in order to maintain harmony with both the school and PSNI.
Rising in support, Councillor Cathcart welcomed the open-mindedness of the developer to changes to the scheme and for its investment into the town.
Alderman Gibson sought clarity on the requirement of a licence for the hotel.
In response, Mr Taggart confirmed that it was non-contentious and would just be a formality.
Councillor Cathcart took the opportunity to thank officers for their extensive work on this application.
Alderman Girvan commented that there was a desperate need for more accommodation in Bangor and she believed that the opportunities for larger events in the town would increase when more accommodation was available.
RESOLVED, that the recommendation to grant approval of the planning application be adopted.
4.2 LA06/2016/0962/F – Lands North West of 66-134 Donaghadee Road, East of Bangor Road (River Hill) and South East of Former Railway Line, Newtownards
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Copy documentation (Appendix II).
. DEA: Newtownards . Committee Interest: An application which falls within the Major category of development as specified within the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (NI) 2015 . Proposal: Residential development of 75 no. dwellings (including 50 semi- detached dwellings and 25 detached dwellings) including associated site works, landscaping and access via River Hill Road . Site Location: Lands North West of 66-134 Donaghadee Road, East of Bangor Road (River Hill) and South East of Former Railway Line, Newtownards . Recommendation: Grant Planning Permission
6 PC.02.05.17
The Principal Planner detailed that the site was located at lands North-west of 66- 134 Donaghadee Road, East of Bangor Road (River Hill) and South-east of the former Railway Line, Newtownards. The site had formally been a disused coal storage yard and vegetated / woodland areas. The topography of the site was varied and was steep in parts. The Ballyharry stream and vegetation dissected the site. Along the northern-west boundary of the site was the former railway line. Adjacent to the site there was a variation of housing developments and commercial buildings. The site was within the settlement limit of Newtownards and on land that was zoned for housing (NS 02) and a small part of the site included land zoned for industry (NS 31). The part of the site included within land zoned for industry contained the stream and vegetated areas and would not be developed on. The proposal would therefore not affect the zoning for industry. The existing dwellings in the River Hill development were a mix of two storey dwellings and three storey apartment building.
The Principal Planner detailed the planning policy and guidance that had been used during assessment of the application. She then advised that the Council’s Environmental Health Department had no objection subject to conditions relating to the submission of a Verification Report to demonstrate the successful completion of remediation works and that the site was now fit for end-use. Other statutory bodies had also been consulted and had no objection to the proposal.
Continuing, the Principal Planner detailed that the development consisted of detached and semi-detached dwellings. The plot sizes were appropriate for the suburban location of the site and all included in-curtilage parking and enclosed rear garden spaces. There was a mixture of plot sizes in the immediate area and that development should tie in well with these surrounding streets. The dwellings would be finished in a mix of render and brick with stone and brick detailing with pitched tiled roofs.
A detailed landscaping plan and landscaping maintenance plan had been included to demonstrate how the stream would be protected and how the future maintenance of the open space/green areas would be implemented. Suitable landscaping had been provided along the boundaries of the site and within the site to assist the integration of the proposal with the surrounding area, to soften the visual impact of the development and to protect the residential amenity of existing and future residents
Provision was made for pedestrian access to the walkway along the railway line, vegetation along the embankment of the railway line would remain undisturbed.
In concluding the Principal Planner detailed the representation received in relation to traffic, which had been dealt with in the case officer’s report. She advised that all consultees had no objection, subject to certain conditions. The proposal was consistent with the Development Plan and also prevailing planning policy. All material planning considerations contained within objections had been fully considered and amendments/additional information requested where necessary. The proposal was considered acceptable.
Alderman Fletcher sought clarity about how the proposal would integrate with the Big Plan for gateways and railways.
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In response the Principal Planner advised that the area would remain protected and accessible to all the pleasant walkways, and the Alderman was pleased that the proposal would not impinge on the Big Plan.
Councillor Cathcart sought clarity about the open space including the land beside the stream and in particular he enquired about the topography of that area.
In response, the Principal Planner advised that the land sloped down to the stream, and would provide a pleasant outlook with areas of green space which would remain accessible to those who wished to avail of that area of green space.
Alderman Graham expressed some concern about the level of safety around the open stream, particularly during times of extreme flooding which could make the area dangerous for children and young people that may be in the vicinity.
The Principal Planner verified that there were various garden walls and areas of planting proposed in the scheme which would make the area secure as there would be areas where access was prevented. She also advised that the agent could provide further clarification on the steps to be taken to mitigate against danger.
At this stage, the Chairman invited Ms Murphy to address the Committee.
Ms Murphy thanked Members for allowing her the opportunity to speak. She commented that this was now the final phase of the River Hill Development. She noted that there was a great demand for the type of housing in this development and therefore it was a timely application. She advised that she had a good understanding and knowledge of the site and it was her understanding that community consultation had been undertaken. She welcomed the recommendation for approval and commended planning officers for their assistance and support during the application process.
Alderman Graham sought clarity about the steps that had been taken in respect of safety issues around the river.
Ms Murphy advised that the river had been assessed as part of the flood risk assessment, including looking at other similar examples and associated solutions. She further advised that a landscape architect had been consulted and therefore in light of both those factors, she believed they had found the best solution for this site. She noted that a number of houses would face onto the river and as such there would be several points where there was no access to the river.
RESOLVED on the proposal of Councillor McIlveen, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the recommendation to grant approval of the planning application be adopted.
(Alderman Girvan left the meeting at this stage – 8.25pm)
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4.3 LA06/2016/0707/F - Stricklands Glen Pumping Station, Lands 45m North West of No. 5 Lochglen and 60m West of No. 29 Stricklands Bay, Bangor
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Copy documentation (Appendix III).
. DEA: Bangor West . Committee Interest: Application relating to land in which the Council has an interest . Proposal: The erection of a new underground pumping station (storage capacity 150 cubic metres) with control building, telemetry pole with lighting column and associated works. Proposal includes a hard standing vehicle access and the deconstruction of the existing control station. . Site Location: Stricklands Glen Pumping Station, Lands 45m North West of No. 5 Lochglen and 60m West of No. 29 Stricklands Bay, Bangor . Recommendation: Grant Planning Permission
The Senior Planner detailed that this application was seeking full planning permission for a new underground pumping station and associated ancillary works at Strickland’s Glen, Bangor. The application had been brought before the Planning Committee for consideration as it related to land in which the Council had an interest.
The site was located at the existing pumping station adjacent to the coastal path at the bottom of Strickland’s Glen. The Bryansglen development was to the left and Strickland’s Bay and Lochglen developments were to the right. Strickland’s Glen was designated as a Local Landscape Policy Area and a Site of Local Nature Conservation Importance in BMAP as well as being located within the Bangor West Area of Townscape Character.
The Senior Planner proceeded to show photographs demonstrating the existing pumping station and unattractive palisade fencing which were to be removed and replaced by the new pumping station which would be sited just to the right of the existing station. That would involve the removal of some of the existing shrubs and vegetation however none of the better quality mature trees to the rear of the site would be affected.
The proposal was one of several new waste water pumping stations to be constructed by NI Water throughout Bangor as part of the Bangor Drainage Area Plan. The purpose of that programme was to significantly reduce the number of waste water overflow episodes that currently had the potential to affect the shoreline of outer Belfast Lough and the Ards Peninsula. The proposals would improve coastal water quality by reducing the amount and frequency of waste water discharged into coastal waters under emergency conditions.
The layout plan showed the position of the new pumping station to the immediate south of the existing one. The extent of the existing station was shown hatched and would be abandoned, demolished and landscaped upon completion of the new pumping station. The hardstanding associated with the new pumping station was shown in grey extending in part over the existing site and the new control kiosk was indicated in green. The planting of new native species trees was also to be carried out around the site to replace the existing vegetation to be removed. The section
9 PC.02.05.17 and elevation showed the extent of the proposed underground storage tanks and the above ground kiosk and telemetry pole and light. Neither the size nor positioning of the above ground works were considered to adversely affect the character of the area. If anything, the works would improve the appearance of the area with the removal of the unattractive palisade fencing and the erection of a less obtrusive control kiosk.
The Senior Planner concluded that the proposal was considered to meet all the relevant planning policy requirements and none of the statutory bodies consulted had raised any objections to the works. The proposal was considered to comply with the area plan as it would not adversely affect any key features of the designated areas. Furthermore, a Habitats Regulations Assessment had also been carried out which confirmed that the proposal would not have an adverse effect on the integrity of any European sites subject to compliance with the recommended conditions. On that basis it was recommended that FULL Planning should be granted.
Alderman Graham asked about the timeline for construction.
The Senior Planner advised that a timeframe had not been indicated to date, however it was a condition for approval that a detailed Construction Method Statement be provided. In response to further queries, the Senior Planner expressed her understanding that NI Water had undertaken consultation with residents prior to submitting the application.
Alderman Graham expressed concern that no consultation had been carried out in respect of the construction, including that the timeframe for construction was as yet unknown. He alluded to the potential for disruption at that part of the coastal path and he sought comfort in respect of that.
In response, the Senior Planner indicated that the location was good given that there were no properties immediately adjacent to the site. Furthermore, the short term disruption had to be weighed against the long term advantages to be gained. She reiterated that a detailed Construction Method Statement was a condition of approval and had to be agreed by several statutory bodies including the Council.
Councillor Cathcart raised a query about access to the site for the construction team.
The Senior Planner advised that NI Water currently had a Right of Way to the site via Downshire Road.
Councillor McIlveen asked what would ensue if the Construction Method Statement was not acceptable.
In response, the Senior Planner clarified that an outline management plan had been submitted and, since there were no objections in principle to the proposal, it was simply more detail that was required. She advised that this detail would not be brought before the Planning Committee, given that it was common to have conditions attached to approvals, and for those conditions to be discharged via statutory bodies which were worked with to agree suitable outcomes.
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Councillor McIlveen queried why a decision about the discharge of conditions would not be brought back to the Committee, given that it had delegated powers.
The Head of Planning clarified that under the Scheme of Delegation it was not specifically referred to, however it could be brought to the Committee if members so wished.
Alderman Fletcher purported that NI Water was being treated more favourably than other applicants. He stated that usually it was insisted upon that surveys were submitted prior to submission of an application. He believed it was the wrong approach to treat statutory bodies differently than ordinary applicants.
The Head of Planning rejected that assertion and stressed that statutory bodies were not treated differently. She advised that many applications had a condition applied that additional information was required in order for approval to be granted. She further advised that consultation with NIEA Water Management Unit would be undertaken when it came to discharging the conditions, and referred Members to the reasoning behind the condition as detailed in the Case Officer’s Report.
Alderman Fletcher did not believe that aspects of the guidance on natural heritage had been considered and he feared there would be a lack of control in the future in that regard.
The Chairman cautioned against making such assertions without having comprehensive information.
Alderman Fletcher responded that he knew of an applicant that had been asked to submit a bat survey prior to submitting their application and as such he reiterated his belief that applicants were not treated the same.
At this stage in the meeting, Councillor McIlveen proposed, seconded by Councillor Barry, that planning permission be granted subject to the application for discharge of the condition concerning the Construction Method Statement being brought to the Committee for consideration.
On being put to the meeting, with 9 voting FOR, 1 AGAINST, 2 ABSTAINING and 3 ABSENT, the amended proposal was declared CARRIED.
A recorded vote resulted as follows:
FOR (9) AGAINST (1) ABSTAINING (2) ABSENT (3) Aldermen Alderman Aldermen Aldermen Henry Fletcher Graham Carson Keery Gibson Girvan McDowell Councillor Councillors Dunne Barry Cathcart Smart McIlveen
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Thompson Walker
RESOLVED on the proposal of Councillor McIlveen, seconded by Councillor Barry, that the recommendation to grant approval of the planning application be adopted subject to the application for discharge of the condition concerning the Construction Method Statement being brought to the Planning Committee for consideration.
4.4 LA06/2015/0337/F – 28 Lord Warden’s Parade, Bangor
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Copy documentation (Appendix IV).
. DEA: Holywood and Clandeboye . Committee Interest: Call in by member of the Planning Committee . Proposal: Erection of shortwave amateur radio 12-metre telescopic mast and associated aerials and retrospective retention of existing fixtures and aerials . Site Location: 28 Lord Warden’s Parade, Bangor . Recommendation: Refuse Planning Permission
The Senior Planner detailed that this application was seeking full planning permission for a 12m high telescopic amateur radio mast with associated aerials and also retrospective retention of existing aerials at 28 Lord Warden’s Parade, Bangor. The application had been recommended for refusal and was included on the 6 March 2017 list of delegated applications to be decided which had been issued to members of the Planning Committee. The application had now been brought before the Planning Committee for consideration following receipt of a call in request from a Committee Member.
The site was located within the development limits of Bangor in the Lord Warden’s development on the southern side of the Rathgael Road. The immediate area around the site was exclusively residential with no commercial or other non- residential uses adjacent.
Lord Warden’s was an attractive residential development comprising detached dwellings and the photographs showed some of the main viewpoints from where the proposed mast would be visible. The first photograph was taken from Lord Warden’s Parade itself and the arrow roughly indicated the proposed position of the main 12m high mast which would be sited in a central position at the immediate rear of the dwelling. The proposed mast when measured to its tip from ground level, would actually be 12.9m in height and would extend approximately 5m above the ridge of the existing dwelling in its raised position. The antenna itself at the top of the mast would be rectangular in shape and would extend 6.7m in length and 2.6m in width with a turning radius of 3.5m.
The second photograph was taken from the front of 45 Lord Warden’s Hollow. The mast would be positioned just below the arrow and even when in its lowered position which was 7m in height, it would still be very visible from this public viewpoint. Some of the existing aerials and masts could also be seen on the photographs and it was
12 PC.02.05.17 both the individual visual impact of the large mast on its own and the cumulative visual impact of all the aerials and masts and the resultant detrimental impact on the appearance and character of the residential area that was of concern. The next photograph showed the rear of the property and all of the aerials already situated on the site as viewed from the back gardens of the adjacent dwellings at 25 and 27 Lord Warden’s Hollow.
The elevations showed the height and scale of the proposed mast and aerial in the context of the dwelling and the other existing aerials. While it was also proposed to reduce the height of some of the smaller existing aerials at the site, those measures were not considered to be sufficient to overcome the primary issue of the overall height and scale of the large 12m high mast and antenna.
The application had been assessed under policy TEL 1 of Planning Policy Statement 10 which dealt with Telecommunications and EXT 1 of the first addendum to Planning Policy Statement 7 which dealt with all development within the curtilage of a residential property. The proposal had been recommended for refusal under both policies as both required that the development should not result in unacceptable damage to visual amenity or detract from the appearance or character of the area. It was also considered that the proposed mast both individually and read cumulatively with the existing masts would unduly affect the amenity of neighbouring properties as they would appear excessively large and over-bearing when viewed from the adjacent properties at nos. 25 and 27 Lord Warden’s Hollow and would adversely impinge upon the immediate aspect and outlook from those dwellings.
Whilst four letters of support had been received in relation to the development, none of those addressed the specific concerns raised regarding the visual impact of the mast and aerials and their adverse impact on the character of the residential area. One letter of objection had also been received from a neighbouring property raising concerns that the existing aerials already adversely affected the character of the area and that the additional mast would further harm the character.
The Senior Planner concluded that it was considered that the proposed large scale mast and antenna was contrary to both policy TEL1 and EXT1 as outlined in the reasons stated for refusal as it was not of a domestic scale and was entirely inappropriate within that well-established residential area. It would be unsympathetic with the built form and appearance of the host property itself and would also adversely affect the overall character and appearance of the area as a whole. Furthermore, it was considered that the proposal would unduly affect the amenity of the two properties to the immediate rear by reason of over-dominance as it would appear excessively large and overbearing from these properties. On that basis it was recommended that full planning permission should be refused.
Councillor Barry sought clarity on what height would be acceptable.
The Senior Planner responded that the case officer had discussed that with the applicant and a height of 10.7m had been mentioned, however even at that height the aerial would still sit above the ridge of the dwelling; in an exclusively residential area the aerial would stand out. She noted that the applicant had offered to remove
13 PC.02.05.17 and reduce some aerials however that did not compensate for the height of the proposed large mast.
Alderman Gibson asked how long the existing masts had been there and whether they would fall under permitted development.
In response, the Senior Planner advised they had been there for a considerable length of time and quite likely beyond the five year limit. She noted that the applicant, who was present at the meeting and had speaking rights, could provide clarity on that matter.
Councillor McIlveen asked which of the existing aerials were acceptable to retain.
The Senior Planner advised that they could not pick and choose as the retrospective application was for the four existing aerials and the material planning consideration would be in respect of when each individual aerial was erected.
Councillor McIlveen observed that unfortunately that created an all or nothing situation when there may have been some middle ground to achieve.
The Senior Planner advised that the case officer had discussed that and an offer had been made by the applicant to remove and reduce aerials, however no formal submission had since been made by the applicant. She cautioned they had to be careful not to set a precedent.
Alderman Fletcher referred to the photograph showing one of the existing aerials and he remarked that it sat lower than the neighbour’s television aerial. He queried the height allowed for television aerials.
In response, the Senior Planner suggested that the angle of the photograph had perhaps given that impression. She stressed that it was the cumulative impact that was being considered and noted that in fact the aerial was considerably higher than the television aerial.
Alderman Fletcher expressed the view that there was a law for the rich and a law for the poor by planners.
Alderman Graham remarked that the proposal was to support a hobby and not a commercial venture. He was encouraged at the neighbourliness demonstrated by the fact that there had only been one letter of objection. Referring to the cumulative impact, he commented that few people would engage with that activity and therefore that cumulative impact would not be an issue. Furthermore, he stated that the height was not relevant as for those houses that could see the aerial it would just be like seeing a lamppost.
Alderman Henry enquired about the origin of the letters of support and the Senior Planner advised that one had come from Gordon Dunne MLA, one from the Radio Society of Great Britain and two from neighbours, although not immediate neighbouring properties.
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At this stage, the Chairman invited Mr White to address the Committee.
Mr White thanked Members for allowing him the opportunity to speak and he advised that he had been a licensed radio amateur since 1975 and he was an active member of Bangor and District Amateur Radio Society. He clarified that amateur radio was not citizens band radio but there were areas of common interest. His aim was to consolidate a number of existing aerials into one more efficient one, which would be reasonably clear of the house and would not require the use of ladders for maintenance. The visual impact of one larger aerial would be offset by the removal of other existing aerials from above the skyline and by the fact that it would only be raised above roof height for limited periods.
Continuing he advised that the proposal outlined a 12m tubular telescopic aerial support which required a ground level concrete base with a slot into which the main support was placed; the aerial support itself was not a permanent fixture. The proposal included the removal of three existing aerials from above roof height and the removal of one rotating aerial that was only five metres from the boundary with 27 Lord Warden’s Hollow at the rear.
He referred to the Planning Officer that had been his contact for the proposal and who had assessed the proposal under the Addendum to Planning Policy Statement PPS 7. According to Mr White, the Planning Officer had expressed the view that no proposal for an aerial above roof height would be acceptable however he had no objection to the retention of the existing aerials. He then referred to Addendum to PPS 7 which he stated made no reference to aerials or aerial supports, whereas Planning Policy Statement PPS 10 made specific reference to them and he quoted that “Proposals to install the masts often used by amateur radio operators usually present few potential planning problems in size and visual impact over a wider area. Such masts need to be high enough for technical efficiency and located as far as possible from other antennas in order to minimise the possibility of interference. However, they will not normally be of such a scale as to have serious impact on local amenity.” He noted that Development Control Advice Note 14 also made specific reference to amateur radio in that it required design choices that helped reduce visual impact; Mr White advised he had outlined those choices in his proposal.
Mr White purported that the Planning Officer had stated that his concern was the view from 25 and 27 Lord Warden's Hollow, whereas the boundary of 25 Lord Warden's Hollow only overlapped his boundary by approximately one metre and did not directly overlook his garden. Continuing he stated that the owners of 27 Lord Warden's Hollow had spoken to him to clarify details after they had received notification of the proposal. He advised that the existing aerial located five metres from their boundary would be removed as part of his proposal as it was of greater visual impact for them.
Continuing, Mr White stated that his records for 2016 indicated that he operated his radio during daylight hours on 233 days; the aerial would have been raised on average for less than an hour and a quarter each day; over the entire year that would be a daily average of just over 45 minutes. Furthermore, he noted that the proposed aerial would not be raised on stormy days and he would not need to raise it for strong European stations so usage would probably be less.
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He commented that whilst there were a number of letters in support of his proposal, there had been one anonymous letter of objection. He confirmed that the mechanical safety and interference issues raised in that letter had been addressed to the satisfaction of the planning department. He accepted the comment in the letter that the objector would rather that the aerials were not there but in the event of a refusal of his proposal, all the existing aerials would remain in place anyway. Whilst he had suggested reducing the height from 12m to a 10.7m version and also some other changes, Mr White purported that the Planning Officer believed that no variation of the proposal would make it acceptable under the Addendum to PPS 7.
In concluding, Mr White stated that his neighbours had been given the opportunity to voice any concerns and the Addendum to PPS 7 had nothing to do with aerials. Furthermore, the directly related sections of Planning Policy Statement 10 and Development Control Advice Note 14 were there specifically to provide a path for proposals such as this. Under those documents this proposal should be considered relatively small scale and judged acceptable. He therefore sought support for his proposal.
Councillor McIlveen asked if four aerials were removed and one was added, how many that would leave.
Mr White advised it would leave four altogether with one aerial being lowered. He clarified that all of the existing aerials had been up for over five years.
Alderman Gibson expressed concern that a more powerful mast could interfere with the local television reception and he sought assurance that there would be no impact on neighbouring radio and television reception.
Mr White responded that an assessment had been carried out in that regard and based on that he was confident that there would be no issues of interference.
Councillor Barry asked, if approval was granted, whether Mr White would be agreeable to a condition of setting the number of days per year that the mast could be extended.
In response, Mr White asked whether he would be allowed to choose the days as if he could not, that could restrict what he wanted to do.
At this stage, the Senior Planner advised that the wording of such a condition would not pass the precise test for lawful conditions and it would be difficult to monitor and enforce the hours of operation.
Alderman Graham referred to Mr White’s previous offer to remove some aerials. He queried whether it could be a condition of approving the new mast that the number of masts to be removed be agreed.
In response, the Senior Planner advised that members could add conditions however any condition requiring the removal of a mast contradicted the description of the current proposal and recommendation to refuse.
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Mr White purported that the proposal specification stated which masts were to be removed, however the Senior Planner advised that they had to take the description on the application form and there was currently no distinction on that; the specifics would have to be the description on the application. She added that the application could be amended with a revised description and come back to the Committee for consideration.
At this stage in the meeting, Alderman Keery proposed, seconded by Councillor Walker that the decision be deferred to allow the applicant the opportunity to amend the description of his proposal for further assessment.
Councillor McIlveen sought confirmation from the applicant that he was happy for this course of action, given that there would be costs associated with a resubmission.
The Senior Planner highlighted that discussions had been held with Mr White and he had been made aware that the primary issue was the height of the mast in an established residential area.
The Chairman commented that Councillor McIlveen’s suggestion was not normal practice, adding that Mr White had had his opportunity to make his presentation.
Councillor McIlveen responded that he was just trying to help officers in the smooth running of the Committee.
RESOLVED on the proposal of Alderman Keery, seconded by Councillor Walker, that the decision be deferred to allow the applicant the opportunity to amend the description of his proposal for further assessment.
5. UPDATE ON PLANNING APPEALS (Appendix V)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 13 April 2017 from the Head of Planning providing an update on planning appeals.
New Appeals Lodged
1. The following appeal had been lodged with the Planning Appeals Commission on 3 April 2017 against the refusal of planning permission.
Appeal reference: 2017/A0001 Application Reference: LA06/2016/0315/O Appeal by: Mr John Burgess Subject of Appeal: Development of five residential dwellings Location: Opposite 7b and 7c Hazelwood Lane, Lisbane
The Council had refused this application on 6 December 2016 with the following refusal reasons:
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i. The proposal was contrary to Policy CTY1 of Planning Policy Statement 21, Sustainable Development in the Countryside in that there were no overriding reasons why this development was essential in that rural location and could not be located within a settlement.
ii. The proposal was contrary to Policy CTY 13 and CTY14 of Planning Policy Statement 21, Sustainable Development in the Countryside in that the buildings would, if permitted: be unduly prominent in the landscape; result in a suburban style build-up of development when viewed with existing buildings;
iii. The proposal was contrary to Policy CTY13 of Planning Policy Statement 21, Sustainable Development in the Countryside, in that the proposed building was a prominent feature in the landscape and the proposed site lacked long established natural boundaries and was unable to provide a suitable degree of enclosure for the buildings to visually integrate into the surrounding landscape;
iv. The proposal was contrary to Policy CTY15 of Planning Policy Statement 21, Sustainable Development in the Countryside in that the development would if permitted result in urban sprawl.
Decisions
2. The following appeal had been dismissed on 10 April 2017:
Appeal reference: 2016/A0160 Application Reference: LA06/2016/0158/O Appeal by: Mr John McIlveen Subject of Appeal: Two no. new infill dwellings and garages Location: North of 14 Ballycreely Road, Comber
The Council had refused the proposal on 15 September 2016 for the following reasons:
i. The proposal was contrary to the Strategic Planning Policy Statement and Policy CTY8 of Planning Policy Statement 21, Sustainable Development in the Countryside in that the proposal would, if permitted, result in the creation of ribbon development along Ballycreely Road.
ii. The proposal was contrary to Policy CTY14 of Planning Policy Statement 21, Sustainable Development in the Countryside in that the proposal would, if permitted create a ribbon of development and would therefore result in a detrimental change to the rural character of the countryside.
iii. The proposal was contrary to Policy CTY1 of Planning Policy Statement 21, Sustainable Development in the Countryside in that there were no overriding reasons why this development was essential in that rural location and could not be located within a settlement.
The Commissioner upheld all three reasons for refusal.
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3. The following non-determination appeal had been dismissed on 31 March 2017:
Appeal reference: 2016/A0076 Application Reference: LA06/2016/062/F Appeal by: Mr Gordon Duff Subject of Appeal: Partial change of use of agricultural outbuilding to a dwelling with remaining retained Location: 40m West of 283 Killaughey Road, Donaghadee
This had been a delegated application which had appeared on the delegated list for Planning Committee members as a refusal, however, a non-determination appeal had been lodged prior to the decision notice being generated. The following draft reasons for refusal had been put forward to the PAC by the Council:
i. The proposal was contrary to paragraph 6.73 of the Strategic Planning Policy Statement in that the building to be converted was not a locally important building.
ii. The proposal was contrary to Policy CTY1 of Planning Policy Statement 21, Sustainable Development in the Countryside in that there were no overriding reasons why this development was essential in that rural location and could not be located within a settlement.
The Commissioner had upheld both draft reasons for refusal.
4. The following appeal had been allowed on 25 January 2017:
Appeal reference: 2016/A0115 Application Reference: LA06/2015/0122/F Appeal by: Mr Albert Crozier Subject of Appeal: Conversion of existing buildings to two separate self-contained residential units and related ancillary works Location: 40m NW of 11 Killyvolgan Road, Ballywalter
The Council had refused this application on 10 May 2016 for the following reason:
i. The proposal was contrary to Paragraph 6.73 of the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) in that the buildings to be converted to two dwellings were not locally important buildings.
The Council had relied in its statement of case on the argument that the appeal buildings had been mostly obscured from public views by existing buildings in the farm cluster. However, post since the Council’s statement had been written, a former dwelling, 13 Killyvolgan Road, had been removed, opening up frontal views of the appeal buildings from an extensive stretch of the public road to the north east of the site access. The Commissioner had considered that the appeal buildings had been particularly good examples of non-listed vernacular architecture and in good repair. He considered that they met the “locally
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important” test on the basis of their architectural merit alone. Their size had been such that they would lend themselves to the proposed conversion with minimal intervention and residential use would secure their retention and upkeep.
Copies of each appeal report had been appended for information.
Appeals scheduled for hearing
5. Appeal reference: 2016/E0040 Application Reference: X/2013/0090/CA Appeal by: Mr William Eric and Mrs Alana Rosborough Subject: Alleged unauthorised erection of three storage containers, shed, scaffold tower, floodlighting and CCTV cameras on a support pole, retaining wall, with timber fence on top enclosing container and equipment area in old quarry void to the rear of No 251 Bangor Road and construction of extension to laneway and levelled surface area adjacent to upper storage container. Location: Lands to the rear of 257 Bangor Road, Whitespots, Newtownards Date: 26 April 2017 at 10.30am in Park House
Details of appeal decisions, new appeals and scheduled hearings could be viewed at www.pacni.gov.uk.
RECOMMENDED that the report be noted.
The Head of Planning talked members through the report.
RESOLVED on the proposal of Councillor Barry, seconded by Councillor Thompson, that the report be noted.
6. REPORT OF PLANNING STATISTICS AND PERFORMANCE
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 20 April 2017 from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning providing an update on planning statistics and performance.
1. The following report was to provide an overview of the performance of the Planning Department in the second year following the transfer of planning powers to the Council.
2. It was noted that the figures were based on invalidated management information as the official statistics for the final quarter of 2016/2017 had yet to be published. Those data had been provided by NISRA for internal monitoring purposes only – they were not Official Statistics and should not be publically quoted as such.
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3. The number of applications received and decided referred only to planning applications. Other applications/work, such as Certificates of Lawfulness of Existing or Proposed Use, Tree Preservation Orders/Consents, Discharge of Conditions, Non-Material Changes, and Pre-Application Discussions were excluded from the figures, but contributed to the case load of the Service Unit.
4. In the year 2016-2017 the Council had issued 929 decisions on planning applications. Of those some 369 domestic extensions had been approved which equated to around £11.07m investment in the Borough (applying an average of c£30k per build). The Council had approved in the region of 1230 dwellings* (of which c8% were in the countryside) which equated to c£123m investment in the borough (applying a conservative £100k per build). That contrasted with 1050 dwelling units approved in the previous year. Further to the initial economic value of the actual builds, once developed elected members had through their planning decisions contributed to expansion of the existing rates-base, and the continued spend in the Borough’s towns and villages, which demonstrated planning as the key economic driver for the Borough.
5. In comparison to the first year post transfer, that represented a decrease in applications decided of just under 5% (929 decided in 2015/2016). That year represented a slight increase in the number of domestic extension approved compared to c340 in the first year. A greater number of houses had been approved in 2016/2017 due to a number of larger zoned housing sites coming online.
6. The following chart showed a breakdown of the remaining planning approvals by their other categories of development proposal. Those approvals contributed to significant job creation within the borough.
7. During the 2016/2017 year approvals had been issued on twelve Council applications, including the Market House, Portaferry, Hamilton House, Bangor, Queen’s Parade, Bangor, and public realm and signage in Holywood.
8. Planning Officers had continued to facilitate a large number of Pre-Application Discussions to assist applicants and developers in front-loading their applications to enable smooth processing of critically important investment proposals through the planning system.
9. The Council had received 1023 planning applications in 2016/2017 (compared to 977 in 2015/16). Of those applications attracting a fee, some £851k had been received (based on deferred income). Additionally, fee income from Property Certificates was expected to be in the region of £145k (£100k in 2015/16).
10. In respect of Enforcement – the Council had opened 381 new cases and brought 282 cases to conclusion. Conclusion was taken to occur when one of the following occurred: a notice was issued; legal proceedings commenced; a planning application was received; or the case was closed.
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11. Fee income as a result of retrospective fees on applications generated off the back of effective enforcement equated to £39,745, whilst the Council had received £1006 in fines and prosecution fees.
12. The attached tables gave a detailed breakdown of the number of planning applications submitted and decided.
Planning Applications received 1 April 2016 – 31 March 2017
Applications Applications Received Decided Quarter 1 286 236 Quarter 2 220 243 Quarter 3 240 186 Quarter 4 277 264 Total 1023 929 Fee income: £851,453
Live Planning Applications in the system at 31 March 2017
Under 6 6-12 12-18 18-24 >24 Total months months months months months 432 151 83 60 43 769
Some 628 applications had transferred to the Council on 1 April 2015 from DOE, of which 577 had been planning applications. The Planning Department continued to work to resolution of outstanding matters on the remaining applications, which numbered 33, a reduction of 94%.
* The total number of dwellings approved included the following:
Outline, Reserved Matters and Full applications; Replacements dwellings; Conversion to dwellings; Change of House Type to previously approved dwellings; Renewal of previous approvals.
RECOMMENDED that the report be noted.
The Head of Planning talked members through the report.
Alderman Fletcher queried why over 100 applications had been in the system for 1½ to 2 years.
In response, the Head of Planning advised that there were a vast number of reasons for that for example; the requirement for certain assessments, some applications relied on an accompanying legal agreement, planning agents had not received payment from the developer to progress/provide amended plans. She further advised that the current procedures were being revised to ensure that all relevant information was submitted at the start of the process to facilitate a smoother process.
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Welcoming the report, Councillor Walker sought assurance that Corporate Communications would promote those success stories.
The Head of Planning confirmed that was already in hand.
RESOLVED on the proposal of Councillor Walker, seconded by Alderman Gibson, that the report be noted.
CHAIRMAN’S REMARKS
The Chairman advised that this was the last meeting to be attended by the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning and he took the opportunity to thank her for her help and support during her time in that role. He wished her well in her future endeavours.
NOTED.
He also noted that it was his last meeting as Chairman of the Committee and he thanked the Committee for working so well together.
NOTED.
TERMINATION OF MEETING
The meeting terminated at 9.45pm.
23 ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
A meeting of the Environment Committee was held in the Council Chamber, 2 Church Street, Newtownards on Wednesday, 3 May 2017 at 7.00 pm.
PRESENT:
In the Chair: Councillor Wilson (7.00pm- 7.27pm) Councillor Barry (7.27pm onwards)
Aldermen: Fletcher Henry
Councillors: Armstrong-Cotter Ferguson Boyle Leslie Cathcart McAlpine Cummings Martin Douglas Smart Edmund
Officers: Director of Environment (D Lindsay), Head of Building Control, Licensing and Neighbourhood Environment (R Brittain), Head of Waste and Cleansing Services (N Martin), Head of Assets and Property Services (P Caldwell), Licensing Officer (A Willis) and Democratic Services Officer (P Foster) Also in Attendance: Councillor Brooks Councillor Chambers Laura Dodds (Café Ceol)
1. APOLOGIES
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Councillor Woods. An apology for lateness was received from Councillor Barry.
NOTED.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillor Cathcart declared an interest in Item 15 – Arc21 Haulage Contract.
Councillor Cathcart declared an interest in Item 16 – Arc21 Contracts for Supplies, Landfill, Procurement and Contract Legal Services and Health & Safety Consultancy.
NOTED. EC.03.05.17
3. DEPUTATION
The Chairman advised members that the Deputation had not yet arrived and suggested that the item was delayed until such time as they were in attendance.
NOTED.
4. APPLICATIONS FOR ENTERTAINMENT LICENCE (FILE LR/EL/90101)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 14 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that applications for the grant of entertainment licences had been received as follows:
1. Bangor Drama Club Studio, 1A Hamilton Road, Bangor
Applicant: Mr N Adamson, 3 Bryansburn Gardens, Bangor
Day and hours of use:
Monday to Sunday during the hours of 10am to 11pm.
Type of Entertainment:
Theatrical performances Dancing, singing or music or any similar entertainment
2. Holywood Yacht Club, 1 Kinnegar Road, Holywood
Applicant: Mr Anthony Hayes, 25 The Esplanade, Holywood
Day and hours of use:
Monday to Sunday during the permitted hours when alcohol may be sold or consumed on these premises under the Registration of Clubs (NI) Order 1996.
Type of Entertainment:
Theatrical performance Dancing, singing or music or any similar entertainment
3. Primacy Bar, 107 Bloomfield Road South, Bangor
Applicant: Philip Patterson, 23 Gleneden Park, Newtownabbey
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Day and hours of use:
Monday to Sunday during the permitted hours when alcohol may be sold or consumed on these premises under the Licensing (NI) Order 1996.
Type of Entertainment:
Dancing, singing or music or any similar entertainment Machines for entertainment and amusement Entertainment consisting of a public contest, match, exhibition or display of darts or billiards, pool, snooker or similar game
The applications were recommended for approval subject to the following:
1 The applications being completed satisfactorily with all the Council’s requirements being met;
2 The PSNI, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service or members of the public not objecting to the issue of the licence; and
3 The applicant foregoing his right to appear before and be heard by the Council.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, on the proposal of Councillor Cummings, seconded by Councillor Cathcart, that the recommendations be adopted.
5. NOTICE OF MOTIONS
5.1 Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Chambers – deferred from Committee meeting in April 2017
Councillor Chambers proposed, seconded by Alderman Henry calling on this Council to prepare a report on the feasibility of forming a partnership, as joint frontagers, with the residents of The Point, Groomsport, along with any other organisations requiring access via this roadway to explore funding opportunities to bring this road up to formal adoption standard. The report would in the first instance establish the level of support among the residents to proceed with such a venture.
Councillor Chambers thanked the Committee for deferring the motion commenting that it should have been heard last month, however he had been out of the country and that had been unavoidable.
For those who were unaware, he advised that The Point in Groomsport ran off the Main Street and down towards Ballymacormick Point which was owned by the National Trust and was part of the North Down Coastal Path. The Point he stated was a residential road but was also frequently used by the public to access and exit the Coastal Path but unfortunately the road surface had become extremely hazardous and was in a shocking state of repair so much so it was considered a
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EC.03.05.17 major burden for all users. There were large rocks, huge pot holes and divits, raised manhole covers and exposed raised rocks.
He reported that this was having a detrimental effect on vehicles and services such as Northern Ireland Water (NIW) who had a pumping station at the end of the road, the postal service, bin lorries, and various delivery services and visitors to the area to name a few. It also caused concern that due to the hazardous nature of the road there was potential for injury should anybody trip or fall and the worry was that in that scenario the Council or the residents could be held liable. He added that it would be most unacceptable to find a road in this dilapidated state, even in the most rugged rural setting, never mind a high value residential thoroughfare that was considered a very desirable place to live and visit, set in a picturesque and tourist friendly village.
Continuing he stated that to his knowledge there had been two attempts over the past 16 years or so to bring the road up to adoption standard however it had fallen flat both times due to the cost to the residents. The second occasion was when a European grant had been made available through a tourism initiative to fund a large part of the cost however part of the requirement for the funding was public parking spaces to be made available and there had been an objection to that at the time from one resident.
He stated that his motion called on Council to search for funding opportunities and to seek a partnership with any organisations who required access along it with a strong level of support from the residents and thus keeping the cost to residents and possibly the Council to a minimum as they were both legal frontagers. He reminded members that this issue had initially been raised on the floor of the assembly during a debate on roads in North Down by his party colleague Alan Chambers and had since attracted cross party support and recognition as both he and the DUP MLA Alex Easton had submitted written questions. He added that also in February 2017 the Council’s own Mayor had went on record to say she was appalled at the state of the road, calling it unsightly and dangerous. It was noted during the assembly debate and following the submitted written questions, the Minister for Infrastructure had made it quite clear there were no plans for the Roads Service to carry out any repair work, nor would they spend any money on it as it had no legal authority to do so, therefore the onus was on the Council and the residents to find a solution to bring the road up to adoption standard before the Roads Service would take full responsibility for its upkeep.
Supporting those comments as seconder, Alderman Henry noted that both the National Trust and NIW used the lane for access purposes and noted it was also used by many residents to access the coastal walk which led to Ballyholme beach.
Thanking the proposer for bringing forward the motion, Councillor Martin indicated that he knew the lane in question and was aware that it was well used by many. He agreed that it was in a bad state of disrepair and therefore he could sympathise with the local residents, however he was also aware that the lane had not been formally adopted. Continuing he added that while he was more than content to find a solution
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EC.03.05.17 to the ongoing issues he would have concerns about who had responsibility for the lane and who would be legally liable. He stated that he would also have concerns that if the Council paid for the repairs at that location it could open the floodgates for similar requests at the expense of ratepayers.
Councillor Martin proposed an amendment, seconded by Councillor Cathcart, that the Council writes to Transport Northern Ireland (TNI) asking it to consider the adoption of The Point, Groomsport, and to ask if it would consider and advise what works would be required to bring it up to adoption standard and the associated costs of that work.
Concurring with those sentiments, Councillor Cathcart agreed that the proposal could open up the floodgates for similar requests, the costs of which would have to be paid for by the ratepayer. He stated that the onus lay with the owner of the lane to bring it up to adoption standard and therefore in his opinion it was not the Council’s responsibility. He added that while he sympathised with the residents he agreed that it was imperative in the first instance to correspond with TNI.
At this stage in response to a query from Councillor Boyle, Councillor Chambers indicated that the Council owned a portion of the lane.
Alderman Henry referred to the amendment which had been made and advised members that TNI had already indicated that it had no plans to bring the lane up to adoption standard. In light of that he suggested that was included in any forthcoming officer report and added that the proposer of the original motion had at no time indicated that the Council should pay for any associated costs with bringing the laneway up to adoption standard.
Councillor Armstrong-Cotter raised concern that if the Council became involved it could raise expectation which ultimately it would be unable to fulfil. She noted that there were no funding streams available for such works and while the Council did not own the lane in question she added that she would have no problem if members wished to facilitate funding workshops for the local residents to address matters such as that. She reiterated that while the issue at The Point, Groomsport was not the Council’s responsibility at that level she could sympathise with the local residents who lived there.
At this stage, Councillor Chambers stated that the Council owned 50% of the laneway and therefore there was an onus on it to address the current situation. He added that all funding opportunities should be explored particularly as an undertaking had been given that the road would be adopted if it was brought up to the required standard.
Councillor Cummings sought clarification that the Council had 50% ownership of the laneway.
The Director of Environment stated that he had not been aware that the Council held ownership there and therefore he would need to investigate that further.
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Councillor Martin commented that it may have been useful for the Committee to have been made aware of that at the outset by the proposer as the Council would now have some responsibility.
At this stage given that new information, Councillor Martin withdrew his amendment.
Councillor Martin proposed a further amendment, seconded by Councillor Cathcart, that officers brought back a report confirming Council ownership and liability for any portion of the lane at the Point, Groomsport.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, on the proposal of Councillor Martin, seconded by Councillor Cathcart, that officers brought back a report confirming Council ownership and liability for any portion of the lane at the Point, Groomsport.
(Councillor Barry entered the meeting at this stage and assumed the position of Chairman at this stage – 7.27pm)
DEPUTATION
Café Ceol – Ms Laura Dodds
The Chairman welcomed Ms Dodds to the meeting and invited her to make her presentation.
Ms Dodds thanked members for the opportunity to address them and advised that Café Ceol had recently appointed a new manager and it had been their recommendation to seek the extension to the existing licence. She stated that the reason for the extension was the further development of the business and to seek additional ticket sales. She acknowledged the concerns raised by the PSNI but indicted that the management of Café Ceol was confident that the premises were well managed with sufficient procedures in place to clear it swiftly if the need arose. She added that as far as she was aware there had been no history of public disorder in recent times.
The Chairman thanked Ms Dodds for her presentation and invited members to raise any queries they had. The following comments were made:
In response to a query from Councillor Cathcart, Ms Dodds confirmed that the purpose of the extension was for one additional hour for those occasions whenever large headline acts had been invited to play at the venue. She added that it would also provide greater value for money for those who had purchased tickets to attend such events. Continuing, members were advised that during the additional hour only soft drinks would be available to purchase. Ms Dodds advised Councillor Martin that the extension was being sought to extend drinking up time and create further value for money for those purchasing tickets to see top headline acts. She added that it was anticipated there could be up to 500 people in the venue during the extended hour period
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and reiterated that management was confident the area could be cleared quickly. It was noted there had been no history of public disorder at the venue in recent times. Councillor Wilson asked if staff employed by Café Ceol would intervene in the event of disorder. Ms Dodds indicated that staff would be asked to use their discretion on such occasions and if necessary try to talk people down. The Head of Building Control, Licensing and Neighbourhood Environment confirmed that CCTV cameras were installed which covered High Street, Bangor. In response to a query from Councillor Boyle, Ms Dodds confirmed that the extension being sought was for occasional dates only and added that as far as she was aware there were other premises in the town which held a late licence on a Monday evening. Alderman Henry expressed concern with the issues which had been raised by the PSNI. Ms Dodds confirmed that arrangements would remain in respect of provision of a first aid medic and a scheme with local taxi companies. She indicated they would also be happy to liaise with Safe Zone. Councillor Ferguson noted that currently Café Ceol was open to 1am on a Monday and therefore as the extension to 2am being sought was for occasional dates only, there may be no need for concern about lack of PSNI resources. Ms Dodds commented that Café Ceol had been open to 1am on Easter Monday with no public disorder issues reported.
The Chairman thanked Ms Dodds for her presentation.
3.1 Café Ceol – Mr Eamon Diamond (File LR/EL (90101) (Appendix I)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Letter of objection from the PSNI and accompanying report dated 14 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that an application had been received to vary the hours currently licensed for entertainment in respect of:
Café Ceol, 17-21 High Street, Bangor
The applicant Mr Eamon Diamond would make representation to the committee.
The application was to permit entertainment to 2am on the following dates:
26 June 2017 24 & 31 July 2017 7, 14, 21 & 28 August 2017 30 October 2017 18, 26, 28 & 31 December 2017
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All of those dates fell on a Monday night with the exception of the 26, 28 & 31 December 2017.
The application had been advertised as required by the Order and there were no objections received.
The PSNI had lodged an objection to the granting of this variation (see attached letter) on the following grounds:
The PSNI had a specific operation to police the night time economy on a Friday and a Saturday night; no such operation existed for other nights of the week. To put such an operation in place would have resource and cost implications for the PSNI. The PSNI considered that the entertainment licence hours should align with the liquor licence hours as had been proposed in the recent Amendment Bill which did not receive consent at the Assembly.
Current Licence
The current licence permitted entertainment on a Saturday to 2am. That was granted in 2014 with the following additional licence conditions being applied:
1. That the Licensee installed an ID scanner to scan all patrons entering the Night Club on a Saturday after 9 pm 2. Council Officers and PSNI Officers to have access to those records upon request. 3. Provide a suitably qualified first aid medic on the premises during the entertainment on Saturday until 2 am Sunday. 4. Implement a scheme with local taxi companies to improve the availability of taxis at 2 am to ensure patrons left the area quickly.
Officers were not aware of any complaints or concerns with the current licence.
RECOMMENDED that the Council considers the deputation and determines the application thereafter.
The Head of Building Control, Licensing and Neighbourhood Environment informed members that there was an appeal mechanism in place. Continuing, he noted that the current licence expired at the end of August 2017 and therefore if members were minded to consider granting the request for the variation, it could be then be reviewed at that time to determine whether there had been any unacceptable impact.
Councillor Cathcart asked if the correspondence from the PSNI had been received in lieu of it presenting its case to the Committee.
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In response, the Head of Building Control, Licensing and Neighbourhood Environment advised that if members so wished the PSNI could be invited to attend a future meeting of the Committee.
At this stage Councillor Boyle stated that having listened to the presentation and debate, he found it difficult to take on board the PSNI’s concerns with the request for an additional hour. He added that consideration had to be given to supporting local businesses in order to strengthen the local economy.
Councillor Boyle proposed, seconded by Councillor Ferguson, that the Council grants the request for variation to the hours currently licensed for entertainment for Café Ceol.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, on the proposal of Councillor Boyle, seconded by Councillor Ferguson, with 9 voting For, 3 voting Against and 2 Abstaining, that the Council grants the request for variation to the hours currently licensed for entertainment for Café Ceol.
5.2 Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Brooks and Councillor Edmund
Councillor Brooks proposed, seconded by Councillor Edmund that this Council establishes a body representative of stakeholders (including representatives from communities affected) and the Council to consider and advise on the options on the future management and operation of harbours and slipways currently under Council ownership and control. As part of its deliberations, the body shall consider the experiences of other local authorities in the management of such assets. This advice will provide the basis of a report to Council which will take the final decision on these options.
That following a decision by the Council on the management and operation of such harbours and slipways, the Council draws up terms of reference for a representative body to provide effective oversight of the operation and management of these harbours and slipways.
The proposer, Councillor Brooks, acknowledged there were many harbours and slipways throughout the Borough which were of importance to the local community and the economy. He felt that it was time to consider how those facilities could be managed hence his cross party motion which he added was flexible in an attempt to retain a number of options and support whatever decisions were made in respect of the matter.
Continuing he acknowledged that fishermen, the RNLI, and local Sailing Clubs amongst others were all considered end users of the Borough’s harbours and slipways. He suggested that consideration was given to the work already undertaken at Portpatrick Harbour and by the Causeway Coast and Glens Council in respect of harbours. He added that the harbours and slipways were a great investment and asset to the Borough and therefore he was keen to consider all 9
EC.03.05.17 options for their future management in conjunction with elected representatives, community representatives and all other relevant stakeholders.
Concurring with those comments, the seconder, Councillor Edmund, noted that during a recent visit to Ballywalter and Ballyhalbert both harbours were being well utilised. He noted the work recently carried out to Ballywalter Harbour commenting that it was a fantastic job and welcomed by all stakeholders and end users and therefore he was fully supportive of a stakeholder approach to the future management of harbours and slipways.
Councillor Wilson stated that he could not agree to the motion and instead would be content to await the pending report from officers.
(Councillor Armstrong-Cotter left the meeting at this stage – 7.50pm)
Councillor Cathcart acknowledged that the motion would enable stakeholders to advise rather than decide and added that he was fully supportive of the motion which would be all inclusive of all relevant stakeholders.
The Director of Environment noted that two reports in respect of future harbours had been brought for consideration by members over the past year, and advised that the process of assessing potential options going forward was already well in progress. He reminded members that as part of that process the Council had agreed to invite tenders for future management of harbours and officers were also looking in detail at the potential for in house service provision as the other main option going forward. At this stage the Director of Environment suggested that before making a decision in regard to the Notice of Motion, it might be useful if members had the opportunity to consider a further officer’s report which was already in an advanced state of preparation and was due to be tabled within the next couple of months.
(Councillor Armstrong Cotter re-entered the meeting at this stage – 8.00pm)
Councillor Douglas commented that the Director’s comments had been very helpful and therefore she could not support the motion and instead indicated she would be content to wait for an interim report which would outline all of the available options, including stakeholder engagement, in respect of future harbours management.
Councillor Brooks acknowledged the information which had been provided by the Director and as a result he stated that he would be content to wait for an interim report which detailed all of the options available for the future management of harbours and slipways.
AGREED, that the matter be deferred to allow for consideration of a report which was already in the process of being prepared by officers in relation to future harbours management, and which was due to be brought before the Council within the next couple of months.
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6. PROPERTY MAINTENANCE STRATEGY UPDATE Q4 (FILE 65374)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 21 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that Members would recall a report in October 2016 that contained our Property Maintenance Strategy.
The strategy laid out our plan to not only maintain our assets, but to actively improve their condition.
Properties were split into groups and placed on a 3 yearly cycle with the properties in poorest condition benefitting from a refurbishment in their scheduled year.
Year 1- 2016/17 Year 2- 2017/18 Year 3- 2018/19 Cemeteries & Tourism Buildings Administrative assoc. buildings Buildings Community Public Toilets Leisure Centres Centres Car Parks Waste Recycling Sports Pavilions Centres & Transfer Stations
Since the adoption of the strategy, officers had made a considerable amount of progress in this area and felt it may be beneficial to give members an update on the works completed so far.
1. Kilcooley Community Centre, Bangor
Extensive redecoration new floor coverings new LED lighting new fire alarms new gas fired boiler Plumbing upgrades to toilets
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2. Skipperstone Community Centre, Bangor
Extensive redecoration new flooring new ceiling new LED lights new kitchen new fire alarms new intruder alarm Plumbing upgrades to toilets
In addition to those significant refurbishments, works were ongoing to bring the buildings within the estate up to current regulatory standards. Works in that field so far included:
Pickie Park - Electrical upgrades and new fire suppression system Ards Arts Centre - New fire alarm system Seapark - Fire alarm upgrade Bangor Castle - New fire suppression system (kitchen) Sports Pavilions - Extensive upgrades for control of legionella, electrical safety and emergency lighting.
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Condition surveys had been carried out at our Tourism Buildings, Public Toilets and Household Recycling Centres. The results were currently being collated to inform the projects planned for 2017/18.
RECOMMENDED that the Council notes the report.
Councillor Cathcart expressed his thanks to officers for the work which had been undertaken to date particularly at Skipperstone Community Centre, Bangor.
The Head of Assets and Property Services reported that a number of car parks had been remarked as part of the Council’s Capital Investment Programme.
Councillor Edmund noted that the second car park in Millisle had been closed off for a period and the surface had fallen into a bad state of repair.
The Head of Assets and Property Services confirmed that it had been closed and had re-opened earlier that day and added that he would check it for any further defects.
In response to a query from Councillor Smart, the Head of Assets and Property Services confirmed that the Council was in the process of developing a Borough wide strategy on car parks which would be brought forward in due course for consideration by members.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, that the recommendation be adopted.
7. PROVISION OF PORTABLE TOILETS AT MILLISLE BEACH PARK (FILE 65081) (Appendix II)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Location map and report dated 22 March 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that Members may recall a Notice of Motion proposed by Councillor Thompson in June 2016 stating:
“That Council officers bring back a report, with costs, for the reinstatement of the installation of temporary toilets at Millisle Beach Lagoon, during the summer months of June, July and August. Pending a report by officers for future arrangements, the mobile toilets currently located beside the refurbished toilet block at Millisle Beach Park should be moved to provide a service at the lagoon for the remainder of summer”.
During the meeting it was agreed that; as any subsequent report would take several months to go through the Committee/Council process, Council would provide the toilets for the summer 2016 period, with a report to follow for arrangements for summer 2017.
Officers subsequently arranged for the portable toilets to be deployed at the lagoon for June, July and August. The cost to hire the toilets for 3 months, including twice weekly emptying of tanks would be £4700. In addition to that cost, the peripatetic toilet attendant would need to have a daily attendance to replenish stocks and carry
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EC.03.05.17 out a basic clean. The completion of those tasks naturally had knock on effects for the time available to spend on the rest of the toilets in the Borough.
Last month, the strategy for Provision of Public Toilets was adopted by Council. The strategy laid out the criteria for public toilet provision, both for fixed and temporary installations.
The continued provision of portable toilets at Millisle Beach Lagoon would not meet the criteria set out under the strategy, for the following reasons:
The existing, newly refurbished toilet block was located at the entrance of Millisle Beach park, a maximum of 600 yards from the lagoon - just over 3 minutes’ walk away (see map).
The Council’s agreed strategy stated that portable toilets would only be deployed for Council run events where Council had full daily control of the event.
Officers considered that the strategy established consistent rationale for provision of public toilet facilities, striking a balance between reasonable and appropriate access to such facilities without creating an excessive burden upon service delivery demands (including financial). Any decision to act outside of the agreed strategy would potentially set a precedent for provision of additional toilets elsewhere that would be difficult to control and budget for. In this instance, considerable investment had been made to completely refurbish the permanent toilet block at Millisle and as per the strategy, it was not considered unreasonable for visitors using the lagoon to walk the short distance to that facility.
RECOMMENDED that portable toilet units should not continue to be deployed at Millisle Beach Park for the reasons noted above, but rather new signage be erected at the lagoon to give clear notification of the availability and location of permanent, high quality toilet facilities a short distance away.
Councillor Boyle commented that he was very happy with the proposal contained in the report.
Councillor Cathcart stated that the matter had initially been raised by Councillor Thompson and noted that the legacy Ards Borough Council had provided toilets at that location. Continuing he noted that the previous summer toilets had been provided there and been well used, therefore he urged members to consider the local economy and tourism for the village and indicated that he would vote against the recommendation.
Councillor Cummings acknowledged the significant footfall in the village during the summer months and as a compromise suggested that toilet provision was made during July and August.
In response the Head of Assets and Property Services stated that the costs associated with that provision would be in the region of £2,000. He added that to
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provide a permanent structure would incur significant costs as a new sewage pumping station would have to be installed due to the low lying location of the site.
Councillor Edmund referred to the many tourists who frequented the village and noted the long walk from the lagoon to the toilets commenting that it was quite a distance for a toddler. He urged members to consider it further.
Councillor Wilson commented that ideally toilets would be provided at all locations where requested and reminded members that the Council had recently agreed a strategy on that matter.
Councillor McAlpine also expressed concern that parents with young children currently had to negotiate their way through a car park to access the toilets.
At this stage the Head of Assets and Property Services confirmed there was a path which ran from the Lagoon to the toilets and speed bumps were also in situ to slow down traffic into the car park.
Councillor Barry questioned the logic behind the request for temporary toilets as the existing toilets were a three-minute walk away.
The Head of Assets and Property Services advised that provision of temporary public toilets had been put into place the previous year for the first time.
The Director of Environment added that the permanent toilets had been closed the previous year to enable major refurbishment works to be carried out and the portable toilets that had been there to provide alternative temporary facilities were still in situ when the permanent refurbished toilets were re-opened. Those were temporarily moved to the lagoon the previous summer following adoption of the previous Notice of Motion brought by Councillor Thompson.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, on the proposal of Councillor Boyle, seconded by Councillor Wilson , with 8 voting For, 6 voting Against, that the recommendation be adopted.
8. NI LOCAL AUTHORITY COLLECTED MUNICIPAL WASTE MANAGEMENT STATISTICS OCTOBER TO DECEMBER 2016 (FILE 53042)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 27 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that Members would be aware that the Northern Ireland Environment Agency published official waste management statistics for all Councils in Northern Ireland on a quarterly and annual basis. Those statistics were very significant for the council as they provided a formal definitive position on our progress towards meeting various key statutory recycling and landfill diversion targets.
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The latest officially published report was for the third quarter of the 2016/17 reporting year, October to December 2016. The full report could be accessed on DAERA’s web site at: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-local-authority-collected- municipal-waste-management-statistics-october-december-2016
There were a number of very significant observations worthy of highlighting in respect of Ards and North Down Borough Council’s performance, compared to our performance during the same reporting period last year:
Our household waste recycling rate rose by 9.1%, from 37.2% to 46.3%. That was extremely significant, given that the NI Council average rose by just 1.8%.
Our household waste recycling rate of 46.3% was 4.2% higher than the NI average of 42.1%.
Our ranking for household waste recycling rate, rose from a position of 9th place out of the 11 NI Councils, to being the third highest performing Council.
Our household waste composting rate of 26.9% was 8.8% above the NI Council average rate of 18.1%
Our household waste composting rate rose by 8.9% from 18.0% to 26.9%, whilst our household waste dry recycling rate only rose very marginally by 0.1%, from 19.1% to 19.2%.
Our ‘dry’ recycling rate (i.e. recycling of items other than organic green/brown bin materials) of 19.2% moved from being the third lowest performing Council to being the second lowest performing Council.
We landfilled 151% more waste through our HRCs compared to the NI average, on a per capita basis. This demonstrated that significant work was still required to improve the performance of our HRCs and their impact on our overall landfill liability/recycling rate. Our kerbside capture rate for household compostable waste materials (for recycling) was by far the highest of any NI Council and was 52% higher than the NI average.
This latest official Municipal Waste Management Statistics report was very encouraging and provided further firm evidence of significant sustained success in the implementation of our Sustainable Waste Management Strategy. Importantly, it also helped us to focus on issues of key significance for further recycling advancements. We were clearly still performing relatively very poorly on ‘dry’ recycling, i.e. recycling of waste items that should be going into our blue bins and into relevant recycling containers at our HRCs. The latest phase of our strategy implementation, involving relaunch of the blue bin and launch of the new kerbside
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EC.03.05.17 glass collection service would be of fundamentally key importance in addressing that deficiency in our recycling performance
Progress towards the key targets set out in our Strategy was summarised and illustrated in the following charts.
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RECOMMENDED that the above report be noted.
The Director of Environment referred members to Page 2 of the report and the 6th bullet point which detailed the Council’s ‘dry’ recycling rate. He stated that it was imperative that the Council now championed the use of the blue bin and glass recycling box by householders to secure the much needed improvement in the Council’s relatively poor performance in that regard.
Alderman Fletcher asked if officers were aware what dry recyclables were not currently being put into blue bins.
In response the Director of Environment referred members to a report tabled in March which had detailed the re-launch of the Blue Bin and listed current ‘kerbside capture rates’ for different categories of recyclables. That showed that there was still an estimated 12,000 tonnes of recyclables going into the grey bins; the worst performance lay with glass and plastics, with no glass being diverted from grey bins (aside from what was taken by some householders to bottle banks) and only 11% of plastics being recycled. He reminded members that all shapes, sizes and colours of plastic bottles, trays, containers and cartons must now be placed in the blue bin and that information had all been included in the current marketing campaign. Large recycling improvements were also still required in relation to metal cans and canisters to improve on the currently low kerbside capture rate of 27% and with regard to paper and card, 40% of which was still being placed in grey bins.
At this stage Councillor Armstrong-Cotter reported that during a recent visit to the cinema in Newtownards with her children, a Council advertisement had been shown promoting the use of the blue bin. She stated that she had been very impressed with the standard of the advertisement adding that it had left a positive impact on her children.
The Director of Environment welcomed Councillor Armstrong-Cotter comments adding that feedback via social media had also been very positive. 18
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Councillor Ferguson asked if consideration could be given to rolling out that promotional campaign to all primary schools and nursery schools.
The Director of Environment confirmed that it would be used in the Borough’s schools’ education campaign, adding that currently the advertisement was running in Council facilities such as leisure centres and community facilities. He was also happy to report that the same video had received 12,500 views on the Council’s Facebook page within the first two days of posting.
Councillor Ferguson encouraged the roll out of the campaign to local primary schools and nursery schools to encourage them to become more eco-friendly.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, that the recommendation be adopted.
9. BIN COLLECTION ROUTE OPTIMISATION (FILE 72013/80052)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 20 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that Members would recall that in conjunction with planning for the relaunch of the blue bin recycling service and implementation of a new kerbside glass recycling service, a bin collection route optimisation process had been ongoing. The primary (linked) objectives of this were to:
Reassess our existing collection routes to ensure maximum efficiency of collection operations, in the particular context of a major shift of recyclable materials out of grey bins and into green/brown and blue bins. Fully integrate our waste collection resources from the two main depots at North Road and Balloo, which up to now had largely been continuing operations along legacy Council arrangements. Fully integrate the trade waste and domestic waste collection services which up to now had been operating separately, in both the legacy Ards and North Down parts of the Borough. Create capacity for dedicated glass recycling collections to be incorporated into the collection cycle, as much as possible within existing manpower/route number availability. Establish a new harmonised kerbside waste collection regime across the Borough that facilitated maximised recycling with the associated financial savings in landfill tax, but with minimal impact on the overall existing cost of the collection operations.
The route optimisation process was nearing completion and it was now anticipated that the Borough would largely be configured into 4 ‘collection zones’ as follows:
Donaghadee South/ Newtownards East/Ards Peninsula Bangor East/Donaghadee North/Groomsport/Conlig Bangor West/Holywood Newtownards and Ards West
Each of the four zones would see blue and black bins collected Monday – Thursday, on alternative weeks. Two of the four zones would see green/brown bins collected 19
EC.03.05.17 on week one of a two-week cycle and the other two zones on week two, whilst one of the four zones would receive a glass collection each week over a four-week cycle.
In order to maximise the achievement of the project objectives detailed above (and to facilitate the balancing of two weekly grey, blue and green/brown bin collections with four weekly glass collections), the days of collection of different bins would not be synchronised as currently and many if not all homes would see a change to their collection schedule. Trade waste bin collections would move to a 4-day week model across the whole Borough, synchronising with the current 4-day collection week pattern for all homes in both legacy Council areas as well as for trade customers in the legacy Ards borough. Officers would work with businesses in the legacy North Down borough to ensure a smooth transition of service to existing 5-day week trade customers.
Whilst the new glass collection containers (along with a blue long-life recycling sack and the latest roll of kitchen caddy liners) were currently being delivered to homes with an explanatory leaflet, all homes would subsequently receive a letter referring explicitly to:
An enclosed collections calendar, which must be consulted by householders to check and confirm their new collection days for each bin/container type. The new requirement for all blue bin recyclables and glass bottles/jars to be kept out of the grey bins, building upon the prohibition of grey bin food waste disposal introduced last year. Highlighting the greatly expanded range of recyclable waste items that now go into the blue bin, as well as the range of glass bottles/jars that were now collected in the new glass container.
As progress currently stood, the ‘go-live’ date for the new kerbside collection regime was Monday 12 June, although that would be confirmed in the letters to householders in due course.
Officers were keen to emphasise that the new efficiency optimised routes had been planned on the basis of projected diversion rates of recyclable food, blue bin items and glass from the grey bin. For collection operations to be completed as planned in accordance with the timetabled collection cycles for each new household route, and to avoid delay/disruption to planned collections, it would be imperative that householders observed the new rules around recycling. That was a key message that would need to be conveyed as part of our overall communications with residents over the coming weeks to ensure smooth implementation of the new collection regime.
RECOMMENDED that the above report be noted.
Councillor Cathcart welcomed the report and noted that the majority of residents would be affected by the schedule change and therefore sought clarification on lead in time and advertisement of the proposed changes.
In response the Head of Waste and Cleansing Services confirmed that every household throughout the Borough would receive a letter detailing the proposed
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changes and including a new revised timetable. He added that he was content sufficient advertisement would be carried out in the run up to the scheduled start date of 12 June 2017.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, that the recommendation be adopted.
10. STREET NAMING (FILE RD(A) FP/2017/0671/MAST/91200)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 24 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that a small development of 5 dwellings was currently under construction on lands at 8-12 High Street, Portaferry. The developer had suggested the street name High Street Mews, due to the site being directly accessed off High Street and was in keeping with the general neighbourhood.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, on the proposal of Councillor Wilson, seconded by Councillor Cummings, that the recommendation be adopted.
11. LICENSING AND REGULATORY SERVICES UPDATE (FILE LR/PC 90100)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 14 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that this report summarised the main activity in the Licensing and Regulatory Service from 1 January to 31 March 2017.
1. Entertainment Licensing
The Service administered applications for the grant, renewal, transfer and variation of licences.
Number of licence applications received: 57
Number of new applications received: 5
During Performance Inspections
Licensing Officers carried out a total of 88 ‘during performance’ inspections to ensure compliance with the licence conditions and in particular fire safety provisions. Those inspections were carried out at night time when the premises were fully operational.
Enforcement Action
As previously reported a number of prosecutions under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) (NI) Order 1985 had been initiated and awaiting relevant hearings at Newtownards Magistrates Court.
Result of Court Proceedings
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The Hop House, Bangor
On the 25 June 2016 a licensing officer carrying out a ‘during performance inspection’ found the rear fire exit escape route blocked by fire wood, boxes and a barrel. That matter was heard by the Court on the 17 February 2017.
The three defendants were found guilty and were given the following fines:
Mr Andrew Gedge was fined £400 on each of 4 charges and ordered to pay £334 costs Mr Nigel McNeeley was fined £200 plus costs of £181; and Mr David Moore, was fined £300 plus costs of £181.
2. Street Trading Licences
There are currently 12 traders licensed in the Borough. Two new applications were received within the relevant reporting period.
3. Amusement permits
Those were in respect of premises providing gaming machines in amusement arcades
Number of premises currently approved 5
Number of applications received: 2
4. Marriage and Civil Partnership Place approvals
Place approvals were issued for up to 3 years
Number of premises currently approved: 22
Number of applications received in the report period: 5
5. Pavement Café Licensing
A temporary dedicated Pavement Café Licensing Officer, Mr Alan MacArthur, commenced work on 20 February 2017 to promote the Pavement cafe legislation and requirements for licence.
To date he had made contact with 157 businesses across the borough which could be impacted by the legislation. An initial letter was sent to each of the businesses outlining their responsibilities under the legislation. The Officer subsequently followed up with a visit to each property.
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Of the 157 premises it was found that 8 premises had tables and chairs outside their premises on private property (and hence could not apply for a licence) and 13 premises visited were no longer in operation. That left 136 businesses, including 43 premises that hold a liquor licence that could potentially require a licence.
A total of 39 businesses had to date requested a Pavement Cafe Licensing Application Pack. A database had been created to assist in the administration of the applications. Analysis of the database indicated that there were 42 businesses likely to apply.
Over the next few weeks a follow up letter would be posted out to encourage businesses to apply whilst further follow up visits would also be conducted.
Overall the Officer had been well received and had been able to answer any issues that may had concerned the business owners. Officers were aware that businesses were in the process of completing the application forms and anticipated that a number of applications would be submitted over coming weeks, details of which would be reported to the Committee for consideration.
6. Town Centre CCTV
During the period of this report 17 incidents were recorded and 8 incidents observed and reported to the PSNI by the CCTV operator including:
14 assaults, 6 traffic accidents, 1 disorderly incident, 1 theft, 1 arson, 1 disorderly and 1 criminal damage
7. Off Street Car Parking
Council officers had been attending the Northern Ireland Regional Off Street Car Parking Group and had been actively working to look at the future delivery options for each Council when the current agreement with the Department for Infrastructure ended in October 2019.
Work had been progressing on a tender document to employ a car parking consultant to assist the 11 Councils to develop a strategy for service delivery post 2019.
The number of PCN’s issued in the period:
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Issued SAME PERIOD 2015/16
PCN’s 806 842
End of year information concerning the number of parking tickets issued were available not at the time of writing this report.
RECOMMENDED that the report is noted.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, that the recommendation be adopted.
12. RECYCLING COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FUND – SCHOOLS EDUCATION PROGRAMME (FILE 69001/92017)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 24 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that at the meeting of the Environment Committee in April 2017, it was agreed to invest up to £50,000 from the Recycling Community Investment Fund (RCIF), in a schools grants scheme to supplement the Council’s existing schools’ environmental engagement and education programme.
One of the most effective means to promote a healthy environment was by providing meaningful education to the next generation. Education had the power to modify our society’s behaviours by increasing knowledge and awareness. It was crucial for the benefit of both the environment and the population.
A proposal had now been developed in consultation with experienced staff within the following internal council teams: Neighbourhood Environment, Recycling, Sustainability and Bio-diversity. Externally, staff from the PSNI’s RADAR (Risk Avoidance Danger Awareness Resource) project along with representatives from schools had been consulted.
Officers considered that the proposal would not only complement the existing education work already being delivered by the Council, but would improve it significantly by collectively reaching a new audience in a much greater volume and in a more effective way, thus ensuring the council maximised achievement of its target outcomes.
The Proposal There were 12 post primary schools in the Borough. The total number of pupils in year 8 (12 to 13 year olds) was expected to reach 1,800. This education proposal would target each of those 1,800 pupils over a 3-week period prior to Christmas at the award winning interactive education resource RADAR (Risk Avoidance Danger Awareness Resource) – which was located just on the edge of the Borough in the Sydenham Harbour Estate.
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Each pupil would visit RADAR for a 2 hour fully interactive tour focusing on environmental topics including recycling, bio-diversity, global warming, littering, dog fouling, fly-tipping, sustainability etc.
The tour would be developed by experienced practitioners from the relevant Council departments, along with the team at RADAR.
What was RADAR?
RADAR, which stood for 'Risk Avoidance Danger Awareness Resource’, was Northern Ireland's first and only interactive safety centre and consisted of a life-like village. It currently had 20 interactive learning zones covering a combination of both safety and life skills subjects. RADAR, in association with its partners, had developed many interactive educational programmes, none of which however presently tackled environmental issues.
The RADAR resource was aimed at children and young people aged between 9 and 24. It offered them the opportunity to experience risk and the consequences of their actions in a safe environment, with trained staff.
In the first operational year (Jan – Dec ’16) RADAR welcomed just over 10,000 children and young people. Further information on the facility may be obtained at: www.radarni.co.uk
The tour at RADAR focusing on Environmental Education would be designed to encourage every year 8 pupil in our Borough to explore environmental issues and how their personal behaviours had both positive and negative consequences for the environment. The unique setting at RADAR would allow pupils to engage in problem solving, and take action to improve the environment. As a result, individuals would develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues and have the skills to make informed and responsible decisions. For example, as part of the tour each pupil would have the opportunity to become an Environmental Officer and attempt to ‘crack’ their very own illegal dumping case!
At the end of the tour it was envisaged each pupil would be given a booklet containing useful advice for not only the year 8 pupils themselves, but also their families, to think and act in a more ‘green’ way. The pupils and their
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EC.03.05.17 parent/guardians, will be asked to sign a pledge to commit to a small number of simple but very positive environmental good practices such as: never to drop litter; maximise recycling of their waste; and if they had a dog, to always clean up after it and dispose of the waste responsibly.
There would be a grant awarded to each school that successfully returned a designated high proportion of pledges from their pupils & parents/guardians, with the level of award dependent on the number of pledges returned.
The key ingredients of that unique environmental education initiative were:
Awareness and Sensitivity to the environment and how the environment was crucial not only for the benefit of the local Borough but also for the survival of the planet as a whole.
Knowledge and Understanding of environmental challenges and the ‘human’ role in those.
Attitudes of concern for the environment and motivation to improve the environmental quality through our choices.
Skills to identify how our everyday actions and behaviours could have significant positive and negative consequences for our environment.
Participation in activities that appealed to all learning types and embedded learning.
Environmental education did not advocate a particular viewpoint or course of action. This environmental education would teach individuals how to weigh various sides of an issue through critical thinking and enhance their own problem-solving and decision-making skills.
The Partners
To deliver our education through this proposal it was reliant on numerous partners, from all 3 sectors, public, private and voluntary/community. The proposal ensured we were working collectively in an efficient way, in order to deliver to such a large targeted audience whilst actually increasing the quality of environmental education and therefore the achievement of target outcomes. Below was a starting list of agreed and potential partners:
Internally: - Neighbourhood Environment Team - Recycling Team - Sustainability - Parks - Bio-diversity
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Externally: - RADAR - PSNI - CCEA - Keep NI Beautiful - Principle Groups - Schools - Translink - Numerous undisclosed businesses
The Proposal and Our Corporate Plan
This proposal represented a cross departmental initiative that focused on our environment through prevention. As well as generating savings in the longer term by changing the attitudes and behaviours towards the environment of the next generation, the proposal directly supported numerous objectives within our Corporate Plan 2015 – 2019.
Listed below were the objectives within the Corporate Plan that this proposal supported both directly and indirectly.
People:
- Develop more engaged, empowered and integrated communities:
This education plan would increase awareness of environmental issues and shift the attitudes of the next generation to pro-actively engage in environmental community initiatives as well as adapting their own behaviours.
- Increase Pride in the Borough:
By increasing knowledge of the positive changes in our homes and shared spaces, our young people would take pride in the place they lived.
Place:
- Promote a clean, green, healthy, safe and sustainable environment:
By educating 1,800 young people on environmental issues there was a clear commitment to ensuring the next generation embraced and promoted a clean, green, healthy and safe environment.
- Invest in and promote facilities and outdoor spaces:
The interactive tour would demonstrate many consequences of negative behaviour and how that had a direct effect on our local outdoor spaces, thus encouraging positive behaviours.
In addition to the link with the Corporate Plan, the proposal directly or indirectly, supported many overarching strategies.
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- CCEA ‘World Around Us’ and ‘Life Long Learning’ - Education for Sustainable Development - Citizenship - Every School a Good School - ECO Schools - Investing for Health - Community Safety Strategy - Equality and Good Relations Programme - Community Relations, Equality and Diversity in Education Policy
Costs
Based on 1,800 Year 8 pupils at a cost of £10 per head, the potential maximum cost would be around £18K. That included development and full delivery of the programme, but would not include transport to RADAR.
Transportation of year 8 pupils from all of our post primary schools to the RADAR facility was an additional cost and could vary depending on which company was used. However, initial enquiries estimated the cost to be between £8,000 and £10,000. There may however be other external funders for the transport element of the project. Officers had established potential within the private sector by incorporating such support within the businesses’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Strategy. As availability of such external funding remained as yet uncertain, a contingency amount for transport costs from the RCIF would be necessary, as that would be critical to ensuring maximum engagement by the schools.
In return for full and proactive engagement with this major environmental education initiative it was proposed that a grant would be provided to those post primary schools that secured the target percentage return of their signed pupil and parent/guardian environmental pledges, the amount per pupil to be determined by officers within overall budget limits and depending upon the level of other external funding support for aspects such as transportation. The grant may then be used by the schools to develop and implement further environmental/sustainability programmes and or improvements within the school community/environment.
Conclusion
This proposal directly cut across numerous objectives within the Council’s corporate plan. It clearly demonstrated the Council’s commitment to improving the natural environment and our residents’ quality of life, by targeting education of the future generation in a comprehensive and systematic fashion. By effective and appropriate marketing of the initiative, a clear link would be established with the RCIF and the significant financial dividend that arose from the recycling efforts being made by communities across the entire Borough – in this case by the pupils and the homes/ families to which they belonged.
This was an innovative and ground breaking approach to environmental education of young people by a Council, and officers considered that implementation would
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greatly assist in establishing Ards and North Down as exemplars in the transformation of community attitudes towards protection and enhancement of our local and wider environment.
RECOMMENDED that the Council agrees to delivery of the above initiative, funded through the Schools’ Environmental Education and Grant Scheme element of the Recycling Community Investment Fund.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, on the proposal of Councillor Armstrong-Cotter, seconded by Councillor Wilson, that the recommendation be adopted.
13. DELEGATED POWERS – GRANT OF STREET TRADING LICENCE (FILE LR11/90101)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 12 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that Council had previously delegated powers regarding the renewal of licences processed by the Licensing and Regulatory Services, facilitating the provision of a timely service to applicants as well as ensuring proper control by the Council.
At present applications for the grant of Street Trading licences were brought before the Council for approval whilst licence renewals were approved by the Licensing and Regulatory Services Manager as long as there were no changes to the original licence application or objections to it.
Applications currently took at least 8 weeks to process as they needed to go before Committee and then were ratified by Council. That time delay had caused difficulties for many of the traders who wished to start trading in the borough as soon as possible, in order to recoup their initial investment following the purchase of relevant equipment such as mobile food trailers.
Council had previously agreed all the locations where stationary and mobile traders were permitted to trade as well as the standard licence requirements and conditions.
It was proposed that the Licensing and Regulatory Services Manager was given delegated powers to grant a new Street Trading Licence (as well as renewal of existing ones), if the applicant complied with the Council’s Terms and Conditions and there were no objections to the application. If the application did not comply or there were objections the application would be referred to the Council for consideration.
RECOMMENDED that the Council delegates powers to the Licensing and Regulatory Services Manager to grant a new Street Trading Licence if the applicant complies with the Council’s Terms and Conditions and there are no objections to the application.
Councillor Ferguson indicated that she did not agree with the recommendation contained in the report as it would be her preference for the Committee to grant Street Trading licences rather than an officer.
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The Head of Building Control, Licensing and Neighbourhood Environment commented that the recommendation had been brought forward in an attempt to speed up the process and enable licences to be granted as quickly as possible.
In response, Councillor Ferguson while acknowledging the sentiments behind the recommendation, stated that applicants should be aware that such applications could take up to one month to process and she reiterated that she was not happy to support the recommendation.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, on the proposal of Councillor Boyle, seconded by Councillor Cummings, with 12 voting For, 1 voting Against and 1 Abstaining that the recommendation be adopted.
14. APPLICATION FOR STREET TRADING LICENCE (FILE LR11/90101)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 11 April 2017 from the Director of Environment detailing that an application as shown below had been received for the grant of a Stationary Street Trading Licence to trade at designated sites within the Borough:
Applicant: Linsey Swift
Address: 27 Cornmill Avenue, Millisle
Goods to be supplied: Hot food.
There were no objections to this application.
RECOMMENDED that the Council grants the Street Trading Licence.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND, on the proposal of Councillor Cummings, seconded by Councillor Douglas, that the recommendation be adopted.
EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED, on the proposal of Councillor Cummings, seconded by Councillor Douglas, that the public/press be excluded during the discussion of the undernoted items of confidential business.
(Councillor Cathcart left the meeting at this stage – 8.00pm)
15. ARC21 HAULAGE CONTRACT (FILE 72011) (Appendix III)
***COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
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Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
16. ARC21 CONTRACTS FOR SUPPLIES, LANDFILL, PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACT LEGAL SERVICES AND HEALTH & SAFETY CONSULTANCY (FILE 72011)
***COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
RE-ADMITTANCE OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED, that the public/press be re-admitted to the meeting.
17. ITEM WITHDRAWN
18. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Thanks to Outgoing Chairman
Councillors Wilson, Boyle and Cummings expressed their thanks to the outgoing Chairman for his work throughout the year and also expressed their thanks to Council officers.
Councillor Barry thanked members for their kind comments.
NOTED.
Weeds on Stone Wall at Queen’s Parade, Bangor
Alderman Henry sought clarification on who had responsibility for the removal of weeds from the stone seawall on the Queen’s Parade.
The Head of Assets and Property Services confirmed that the wall fell under the ownership of the Council and arrangements had been put into place to have the weeds removed and the top of the wall cleaned to enable people to sit on it.
NOTED.
TERMINATION OF MEETING
The meeting terminated at 8.40pm.
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Item 7.3
ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
A meeting of the Regeneration and Development Committee was held in the Council Chamber, 2 Church Street, Newtownards on Thursday 4 May 2017 at 7.00pm.
PRESENT:
In the Chair: Alderman Mrs Smith
Aldermen: Irvine McDowell
Councillors: Adair Leslie Allen Menagh Armstrong-Cotter Smart Cummings T Smith Gilmour Walker Ferguson (7.01 pm) Wilson
In Attendance: Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning (C Mahon), Head of Regeneration (B Dorrian), Temporary Head of Tourism (S Mahaffy), Temporary Head of Tourism (R Richardson), Head of Economic Development (C Magill) and Democratic Services Officer (J Glasgow)
1. APOLOGIES
An apology for inability to attend was received from Councillor Cooper.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Alderman Irvine declared an interest in Item 11 – Request from Orange Order.
(Councillor Ferguson entered the meeting – 7.01 pm)
3. YEAR OF FOOD AND DRINK UPDATE (FILE 150604)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning detailing that as Members are aware 2016 was designated the Year of Food and Drink by Tourism Northern Ireland. The report followed on from the previous updates presented to the Committee throughout the year.
Officers worked with Tourism NI and Food NI to develop a programme of events, food tourism and business development initiatives and to support the growth of the food sector across the Borough throughout the year. The objective of the year locally was to lay the foundations for Ards and North Down becoming known as the premier destination to experience food excellence in Northern Ireland.
RDC.04.05.17 PM
In the latter part of 2016 and the early part of 2017 a number of events and initiatives had taken place and were detailed as follows:
Collaboration with Food and Drink Producers at Belfast City Christmas Market. The Council partnered with FoodNI and were able to pass on the opportunity to local food and drinks producers to enable them to showcase and sell their products in a chalet for a selected period at Belfast City Christmas Market from 20 November 2016 to 22 December 2016. Eight local producers availed of the opportunity to showcase their products to a wider audience. The feedback from this opportunity was very positive and reported as a positive opportunity to get more customers.
Events Food Programme In addition to the annual calendar of events, the Tourism Section delivered Sea Bangor and the Comber Earlies Food Festival which successfully showcased the food sector, and four Food Showcase events were delivered – Portaferry, Portavogie, Donaghadee and Greyabbey.
Peninsula Food Showcase – Ghostly Grey Abbey The event marked the final showcase of the Peninsula Food Showcase series on 29 October 2016. The event was held on the Grey Abbey site with extensive use of St Saviour’s car park. The car park hosted the Food Demonstration kitchen where a series of demonstrations were delivered on the autumnal theme. This area was also home to the food traders and local food suppliers. A series of themed living history performances were timetabled throughout the evening (5pm – 9pm) in the atmospheric grounds of the lit up Abbey. Research conducted at the event indicated a very high satisfaction rating of 95% as very good or excellent and 65% indicating the event would encourage them to eat local produce. The event attracted 3,000 visitors.
The events food programme had attracted a total of 85,500 visitors to the borough.
Schools Programme A Schools Programme, Food and Drink Masterclass was developed in partnership with Youth Enterprise Northern Ireland and took place on 16 November 2016 in the Signal Centre. This involved three local secondary schools, with workshops taking place throughout the Borough which created an understanding of entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation. A Dragon’s Den model was used for the students to pitch to representatives from the food industry. Three Schools; Nendrum College, Rockport College and Strangford Integrated College attended the programme with over 58 pupils and 5 teachers. The Guest speakers included Ken Sharp from the Salty Dog and Jill Crawford from Just Live a Little who spoke about starting up their food businesses and branding their products. The students had to design a food product using the 4 P's, (Price, Promotion, Product, Place) and showcase in front of a panel of judges. The judging categories including best idea, best presentation and best use of 4P's. The feedback from the programme was the students gained enhanced skills and valuable knowledge. The winners of the programme were detailed below: Most Creative Idea – Little Leaves, Nendrum College Best Presentation – Petite Treats, Strangford Integrated College Best Business Plan – Porkers, Strangford Integrated College
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World Host Food Ambassador Programme
Three World Host Food Ambassador Programme sessions were held in the Borough in partnership with Tourism NI, People 1st, Food NI and Taste of Ulster to deliver a recognised and accredited training programme.
Date Location Attendees 18 October 2016 Poacher’s Pocket, 20 including the Mayor Lisbane 17 January 2017 The Narrows Social, 15 Portaferry 7 March 2017 The Salty Dog, Bangor 22
All the training sessions were very well received by the attendees.
Food and Drink Business Development and Branding Programme A Food and Drink Business Development and Branding Programme was developed to respond to feedback from businesses and 3 workshops took place in January and February 2017. The 3 different workshops with a variety of content covered branding, developing a brand strategy and communication plans specific to the food and drink sector were delivered at the Signal Centre. A total of 25 local businesses participated in the masterclasses. Future programme development would also cover areas of Business Competitiveness, Export, Product Development, Legal Issues, Funding, Partner Sourcing, Market/Produce Research and Packaging. The Branding programme was the first to be delivered followed by workshops and 1-1 business mentoring focusing on common issues. Overall 100% reported that the programme was excellent or very good.
Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink 2016 Awards The awards ceremony took place in the Borough at the Culloden Estate and Spa on 2nd February 2017. The Council was shortlisted in two categories; Best NI Food Event or Festival – The Comber Earlies Food Festival Best NI Foods and Trails - Woodlawn and Whiskey Tour
In total, the Borough was successful in being shortlisted for 6 Awards over 6 different categories, which was testament to the wonderful food heritage, produce, suppliers and food visitor experiences in the Borough.
Mayor’s Year of Food and Drink Certificate At a Mayoral reception, in the Chamber at Bangor Town Hall, those involved in the hospitality and local food and drink industry in the Borough were recognised by the Mayor. That was to acknowledge their contribution to the local economy at the event held on the 13 March 2017.
Food Conference and Showcase During the Year of Food and Drink, all across the Borough, people participated in and celebrated the rich diversity and high quality of our local food offering. From farmers and growers to food producers and quality restaurants, Ards and North Down showed it truly is a “Foodie” heaven. The Food Conference and Showcase was joined by a number of leading experts in the local and national food sector who
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RDC.04.05.17 PM talked about the key trends and future opportunities in the marketplace. Leading food brand visionary James Averdieck, founder and former Managing Director of Gü Chocolate Puds was the keynote speaker at the conference. He created one of the fastest growing food brands in the UK and revolutionising the quality of ready-made desserts. Other speakers at the conference were Michele Shirlow, Chief Executive from Food NI; Alison Austin an independent consultant; Dr Lynn Gilmore from Seafish and Bill Wolsey, Managing Director from Beannchor.
The overall feedback from 72 attendees at the conference was rated as 95% excellent/very good.
An array of local growers and local artisan food producers showcased their products.
Food Destination Development Study As Members were aware the Integrated Tourism, Regeneration and Development Strategy 2017 - 2022 was currently being developed and would act as the strategic and operational blueprint for Tourism, Regeneration, Economic Development and Planning context to 2022. Alongside that strategy the Tourism Section recently issued an invitation to quote for the development of a targeted and costed programme of initiatives and activity which would establish the borough as a premier food tourism destination by 2020.
Following due procurement, the contract was awarded to a consortium of Place Management and TEAM in March 2017. Work on the early phases of the project was well underway and it was anticipated that a presentation of the draft report on the project outcome would be made to Committee in June 2017.
Officers were continuing to work to enhance and support the food and drink sector throughout the Borough with a number of upcoming initiatives including:
Balmoral Show Promotion of the Ards and North Down area and businesses at Balmoral Show, 10 – 13 May 2017, in the Shopping Pavilion to promote the destination and its hospitality sector, agri-food sector and upcoming food related events.
Events 2017 The Tourism Service Unit would deliver 2 authentic food events at the Comber Earlies Food Festival on 17 June 2017 and the Seafood Festival, Portavogie on 12 August 2017. Food would be a main theme at Armed Forces Weekend, hosted at Sea Bangor 24-25 June, within the Food Marquee (themes yet to be determined). The Economic Development Section Service Unit would deliver the Loaves and Fishes event in October along with partners Seafish, Food NI and SERC.
Date Event 17 June 2017 Comber Earlies Food Festival 24-25 June 2017 Armed Forces Festival hosted at Sea Bangor with food elements. 12 August 2017 Portavogie Seafood Festival October 2017 Loaves and Fishes Event, Location TBC
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Tourism Experience and Events Guide 2017 Food and drink was profiled in print and within on line platforms including the Experiences and Events main guide, Walks and Tours programme and relevant visitardsandnorthdown.com website pages.
Food Tours incorporated into Walks and Tours programme The new programme included:
Two Woodland and Whiskey tours incorporating Echlinville Distillery and Mount Stewart Tea with the Lord at Ballywalter House
Tourism Northern Ireland and Tourism Ireland - Italian Food Experience The Tourism Service Unit were continuing to work with Tourism Northern Ireland and Tourism Ireland Limited on a pilot study with the Italian market on the food and broader tourism experience of Strangford Lough. Tourism Northern Ireland was the primary lead on the project.
Communication Ongoing regular communication to the business community via e-zines, websites, advertising campaigns, social media, leaflets and brochures.
BBC Good Food Show Officers were currently investigating the stand details at the BBC Good Food Show, 10-12 November 2017 in Belfast with the opportunity to partner with local food and drink producers.
As 2016 was officially designated the Year of Food and Drink, it was always year one in the Council’s plan for future development. Officers were currently working on future plans which would be in conjunction with the Food Destination Development Study and the Integrated Tourism, Regeneration and Development Strategy outcomes. Communication was also continuing with FoodNI and Tourism Northern Ireland with a further report to be presented at a later date.
A summary of the Events Programme for the Year of Food and Drink with associated attendance where applicable was below:
Event Attendance Food Focus and Engagement Groups - Bangor, Portavogie, 50 Newtownards - October 2015 Engagement Sessions for local business – Bangor, 42 Newtownards, Portaferry – February and March 2016 Woodland and Whiskey Tour, Mount Stewart and Echlinville 25 Distillery - 23 April 2016 Tea with the Lord Tour, Ballywalter – 28 April 2016 23 Promotion of Ards and North Down at St Georges Market in 867 conjunction with TourismNI and local business – 13 – 15 May and 20 - 22 May 2016 Balmoral Show, 9-11 May 2016 * estimate 4,500 Tea with the Lord Tour, Ballywalter – 28 April 2016 22
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Sea Bangor Festival, Bangor – 4 & 5 June 2016 50,000 Comber Earlies Food Festival – 25 June 7,000 Peninsula Food Showcase Portaferry - 30 July 2016 1,000 Seafood Festival, Portavogie – 13 August 2016 4,000 Donaghadee Lights Up, Donaghadee – 10 September 2016 9,000 Loaves and Fishes, Ballywalter – 9 & 10 October 2016 3,000 Ghostly Greyabbey, Greyabbey – 29 October 2016 3,000 BBC Good Food Show, Belfast in partnership with FoodNI and 14,000 local businesses – 14 -16 October 2016 * estimate World Host Food Ambassador Programme – 18 October 2016 20 Schools Programme – 16 November 2016 63 Belfast Christmas Market in conjunction with FoodNI and 8 10,000 local business – 20 November 2016 – 22 December 2016* estimate Business Development Masterclass Programme – 11 January 25 2017, 25 January 2017, 9 February 2017 NI Best Food and Drink Product in conjunction with George 11 Best City Airport and Food NI – launched 16 January 2017 World Host Food Ambassador Programme – 17 January 2017 14 NI Food and Drink Awards 2016 Shortlist – 2 February 2017 6 World Host Food Ambassador Programme – 7 March 2017 22 Food Showcase and Conference, Bangor – 29 March 2017 72 Total 106,762
*It should be noted that it was not possible to gather attendance numbers at our stand at those events and the events were not Council led, so those figures were estimated on organiser supplied information.
RECOMMENDED that Council notes this report.
Councillor Cummings congratulated all those involved in the range of the events which had brought a successful year. The events had been recognised not only across the Borough but further across the Country.
Councillor Smart echoed those remarks highlighting that the events had provided a great opportunity to share ideas and sample local produce. Councillor Smart referred to the great efforts of the Mayor in respect of the promotion of local food and drink throughout her term.
Councillor Adair agreed with the comments already made and felt the programme of events had been a lasting legacy and outgoing testament to the work of the outgoing Director. He remarked that the Fish Festival in Portavogie had exceeded all expectations and he was confident that would be an annual event. Councillor Adair wish to put on record his thanks and congratulations to the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning and the Mayor for the work they had undertaken.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Cummings, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the recommendation be adopted.
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4. ARDS AND NORTH DOWN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ANNUAL ACTIVITY REPORT 2016-17 Appendix I
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching summary overview of the detailed elements and Growth Factor Participant Testimonials. The report detailed that the Economic Development (ED) section of Ards and North Down Borough Council provided a suite of support to encourage enterprise, growth and innovation. Local businesses benefit from 1:1 confidential business advice, business intelligence service, signposting to other support agencies and workshops, advice sessions, networking opportunities and mentor based programmes.
Feedback and requests from businesses throughout the year were gathered and a programme of support was created based on the needs of our client base providing knowledge and skills which impact the personal development of owner managers and the growth of their business. Every year the Economic Development section carried out an annual survey, with the 1,700 registered on its database, in order to inform future programmes of support. The next survey would be distributed in early May 2017.
The appendix provided an annual summary overview of the following elements of the support services provided to local businesses during 2016-2017 including:
1 Signal Business Support 1.1 Business Support Services – Advice & Research 2016-2017 1.2 Business Support Services – Information & Communication 2016-2017 1.3 Business Support Services – The Growth Factor Programme 2016-2017
2 Northern Ireland Business Start-Up Programme 2.1 Interim “Go-for-It” Business Start-Up Programme 2.2 New Business - Additional Support
3 Business BOOST Programme 2016-2017 3.1 Summary Review 3.2 Mentoring Support (Tier 3 and Mini Boost) 3.3 Workshops
4 Social Enterprise Programme 2016-2017
5 Exploring Enterprise3 Programme
6 Additional Business Support 6.1 Craft Tech Programme 6.2 Project 24 Business Support 6.3 The Career Builder 6.4 Independent Traders Business Support 6.5 Year of Food Programme 2016-2017 6.6 Mind Body Business
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7 Signal Facility
RECOMMENDED that Council notes the report.
Alderman Irvine praised the Economic Development department for the work that was occurring. He was interested to learn what Invest NI had planned in particular in terms of job creation and asked that they be invited to a future meeting of the Committee to provide an update. Alderman Irvine advised that local organisations such as Whale Pump were investing significant money in job creation.
The Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning stated that she would make contact with Invest NI. She also wished to highlight to Members that a second Job Fair was up and coming.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Irvine, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the recommendation be adopted and that Invest NI be invited to make a presentation at a future meeting of the Committee.
5. UPDATE ON THE CREATIVE MOMENTUM PROGRAMME
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning detailing that Creative Momentum was a €2m, 3-year (2015-2018) transnational project to support the creative industries sector. It was funded by the EU’s Northern Periphery & Arctic (NPA) Programme.
In July 2015, Ards and North Down Borough Council agreed to support the Creative Momentum Programme in the sum of £14,528 per annum over three years.
Creative Momentum was operated by six partner organisations across five regions:
Region Organisation Mid-Sweden Technichus Mid-Sweden Ltd http://technichus.se/
North East Iceland Cultural Council of North East Iceland http://www.eything.is/
Northern Finland (Lapland, North Lapland University of Applied Sciences Ostrobothnia) http://www.lapinamk.fi/en Northern Ireland SEED Group Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough (Armagh City, Banbridge & Council, Northern Ireland Craigavon Borough Council, Ards & http://www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/ North Down Borough Council, and Newry, Mourne & Down District http://www.newrymournedown.org/ Council areas)
West of Ireland (counties Donegal, Western Development Commission (WDC) Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, www.wdc.ie Galway and Clare) National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG) http://whitakerinstitute.ie/
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The Creative Momentum project targets and supports start-ups and SMEs (small and medium sized enterprises) of one or more persons, self-employed freelancers, social enterprises and recent graduates working in the creative industries sector and based in one of the five participating partner regions of the project in Ireland, Northern Ireland, Iceland, Sweden and Finland.
Creative Momentum supports artists, craftspeople and creative sector enterprises to:
develop their creative and business skills and innovate new product/service ideas by providing mentoring, new online knowledge resources and supporting collaborative product, service and organisational innovation; connect with other creatives to develop new opportunities locally, regionally and transnationally by supporting shared spaces, events and gatherings; and get their products and services to market by supporting them to attend Trade Fairs and showcase their work online and to the tourist market.
The programme had now been running for eighteen months and the following has been achieved:
Events / Opportunities that have taken place
Creative Hotspots Activity The Creative Momentum project selects one creative industry event in each of the 5 partner regions to support and then runs an open competitive competition to support creative businesses to attend these creative industry events.
Creative Hotspot 1 Region Name Creative Dates Subsector Sweden Urkult Craft August 2016
8 creative businesses were supported to attend the Urkult from the partner regions. 3 of these were from SEED:
No of Businesses Council 1 Ards and North Down Borough Council 1 Newry Mourne & Down District Council 1 Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council
The businesses received support covering travel and accommodation, costs to both attend the Swedish craft festival Urkult, as well as have a stand in its prominent market place where they had selling opportunities over 2 days with a footfall of over 5,000. The supported businesses also took part in a Pecha Kucha presentation event at the festival and were given the opportunity to network with other creative businesses from across Europe. The project organised for all supported businesses to visit creative working spaces in the region and hear from the organisers and managers. All businesses reported international sales as a result of participation as well as developing a list of future potential international contacts.
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Creative Hotspot 2 Region Name Creative Dates Subsector Northern Ireland Digital DNA Digital September 2016
11 businesses from across the project partner regions were supported to attend the creative digital DNA event in Armagh in Northern Ireland. This included attending a Creative Momentum exchange event were they got to meet and network with NI creative digital businesses and hear presentations from app developers from the region.
Creative Hotspot 3 Region Name Creative Dates Subsector Finland Arctic Design Design February 2017 Week
15 businesses were supported to travel to Lapland to attend the Finnish Arctic Design Week Festival 6 of which were from Northern Ireland: No of Businesses Council 2 Ards and North Down Borough Council 2 Newry Mourne & Down District Council 2 Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council
Northern Ireland businesses were supported through accommodation, travel and participation in the Arctic Design Week Festival. They attended a 2-day conference in Northern Finland and all took the opportunity to be represented at a showcase stand at the event allowing for further engagement with attendees. They were part of networking events on each night and the attendees have all reported an increase in international contacts, and would be reporting back to the project on businesses developed through attendance.
Creative Hotspot 4 Region Name Creative Dates Subsector Ireland Galway Film Film July 2017 Fleadh
This open competitive opportunity has been run with the following applicants in the process of waiting to hear if they would be accepted to attend this film festival: No of Businesses Region 1 Ards and North Down Borough Council 1 Newry Mourne & Down District Council
Creative Exchanges activity: A number of creative events have been taking place throughout the partner regions of the project, when possible these are being filmed and made available for future
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To date the following have taken place in SEED Name Region Date No. attendees “Why Are You Armagh City, Banbridge & 18th May 41 Not Selling Craigavon Borough Council 2016 Online” “The Ards and North Down Borough 18th Aug 13 Practicalities of Council 2016 Selling Online” “Grow Your Armagh City, Banbridge & 28th Sept 19 Digital Business” Craigavon Borough Council 2016 “Developing Armagh City, Banbridge & 16th Nov 28 Creative Craigavon Borough Council 2016 Networks”
Assistance to International Trade Fair Activity The Creative Momentum has run 2 open competitive opportunities to support creative businesses to received up to €2,500 in support to attend a trade fair outside Northern Ireland. The following from Northern Ireland have been successful:
No of Businesses Round Council Details 1 1 Newry Mourne & Has not attended (offer Down District made but not taken) Council 1 1 Armagh City, Has not attended (offer Banbridge & made but not taken) Craigavon Borough Council 1 1 Newry Mourne & Web summit, Lisbon Nov Down District 2016 Council 1 1 Newry Mourne & Showcase Ireland Jan Down District 2016 Council 2 2 Newry Mourne & Attended British Craft Down District Trade Fair April 2017 Council 3 2 Newry Mourne & *Yet to attend Trade Fair Down District Council 1 2 Newry Mourne & Attended Bologna Down District publishing trade fair April Council 2017 2 2 Ards and North *Yet to attend Trade Fair Down Borough Council
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2 2 Armagh City, *Yet to attend Trade Fair Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council
*Applications/business cases are yet to be received from creative companies as to which trade fair they would like to attend.
Online Showcase Platform “My Creative Edge” www.MyCreativeEdge.eu The online showcase platform for the Creative Industries (created through predecessor project Creative Edge) generated a total of 372 businesses split between the 3 council regions.
The platform had now been redeveloped with new functionality and greater speed to allow it to operate on current browsers more effectively and better engage with the creative community. This allowed creative businesses in SEED to create a free online profile showcasing their creative business and would then be able to benefit from the online marketing of the platform by the lead partner of Creative Momentum (The Western Development Commission) which was budgeted at €20,000.
Creative Trails activity A tender was put out and awarded to Oli/Tour Talk to develop a mobile app to create 2 creative trails within SEED. The tender also includes the marketing, PR and Launch of the apps. The total tender was £51,500. This was awarded in March 2017, with the launch of the apps scheduled to be no later than the 1st July 2017. Those creative trails would also be featured on the MyCreativeEdge.eu platform which would be showcased throughout the EU partner regions.
Transnational Peer Mentoring Activity Currently called “Creative2Creative Matching” (this was previously marketed as “Mentoring in Internationalisation”). The activity matched creative businesses from different EU partner regions and then connects them through organised skype sessions over a period of 6 months. That was an ongoing activity with the final call closing at the end of the May 2017. Matches to date are:
No of Businesses Council 7 Newry Mourne & Down District Council 3 Ards and North Down Borough Council 3 Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council
Creative Steps 2.0 activity Creative Steps was run as an opportunity in the predecessor project Creative Edge. That was an innovation model where emerging creative talent (graduating students/emerging creative businesses) apply a developed innovation process towards real life briefs set by actual creative businesses. The opportunity gives students/emerging creative businesses experience on life briefs as well as exposing them to transnational contacts and developing potential future collaborative projects. The activity was yet to run in SEED, The West of Ireland and Sweden.
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The Network of Shared Creative Spaces A list of Creative Spaces had been identified in the partner regions. The project had now started working towards connecting these spaces. This has initially begun through monthly skype meetings between the creative space managers. Those meetings were creating a platform for transnational exchange on best practice approaches and discussing areas of future collaboration. Creative Exchange events would be delivered in 2017 to specifically address issues brought up on the calls.
Creative spaces have been identified in SEED as follows: No of Businesses Council 6 Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council 4 Newry Mourne & Down District Council 7 spaces which had been Ards and North Down Borough Council identified borough wide: Boom Studios Project 24 Haptik Sync Space The Battle Town Gallery Yard Gallery Ards Arts Space
Partner Meetings Partner Meetings had taken place as follows:
No. Partner Location Date 1. Finland Oulu July 15 2. West of Ireland Carrickonshannon Oct 15 3. SEED Banbridge Feb 16 4. Iceland Akureyei June 16 5. Sweden Storgatan Nov 16 6. Finland Rovaniemi Feb 17 7 Iceland Akureyei May 17 8. SEED Bangor Nov 17 9 West of Ireland TBC TBC
Events / Opportunities still to take place:
Video Pitching Toolkit Currently investigating what film/video/production companies were available in the region to be part of a pool of service providers to feed into future opportunities. Creative businesses would be able to apply through a competitive opportunity to receive support to have one company from this pool to create a video of their business for pitching/marketing/showcase purposes.
Photographic Opportunity In order to both facilitate strong profiles on the MyCreativeEdge.eu platform and strong representations of businesses featured on the creative trails app, there would
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RDC.04.05.17 PM be an opportunity to have a professional photographer take high end shots representing the creative businesses and their creative process.
Creative Exchanges Currently finalising a series of SEED creative exchanges, looking at 9 events in 2017 throughout the 3 council areas
Video Pitching showcase event Creative Spaces Showcase event Photographic Post Production Speed Networking (one in each of the 3 councils) Developing Transnational Partners Making a Business from Music (making selling instruments/running a record company/running a recording studio/ working as a session musician) How to Sell to the public face to face Launch of redeveloped MyCreativeEdge in NI
Marketing All businesses featured on the MyCreativeEdge.eu platform (which was open for profiles now and was free for SEED businesses) would benefit from the €20,000 set aside to showcase the platform transnationally.
Creative Steps 2.0 (innovation model of young creative entrepreneurs and established transnational businesses to develop a product or service through innovation) The Creative Steps opportunity would run in SEED later in 2017.
Creative2Creative Matching There was an ongoing open competitive opportunity for creative businesses to apply to be matched with another creative business in EU partner regions. This gives businesses based here in SEED the opportunity to develop transnational networks, explore collaboration possibilities and develop international shared contacts. Creative Momentum was currently sourcing quotes for mentors to provide extra focus and direction to matched transnational pairs.
Creative Industries Economic Impact Assessment One of the EU partners on Creative Momentum was NUIG (National University of Ireland Galway) who were currently beginning the projects economic impact assessment in all partner regions in relation to the creative industries. The results of which would be collated by NUIG and made to all partners for all regions.
RECOMMENDED that Council note the content of the report. Alderman Irvine asked if the European funding element was set to continue. In response the Head of Economic Development advised that Officers were continually meeting with the SEED group and through the East Border Region. Any submissions that had been made would be honoured even if the events were past the 2019 deadline. However, no new funding applications would be accepted at this stage.
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In respect of the Trade Fair, Councillor Cummings asked why Ards and North Down Borough had not participated. In response the Head of Tourism advised that had not occurred as yet but would be programmed.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Irvine, seconded by Councillor Cummings, that the recommendation be adopted.
6. DEPARTMENT FOR THE ECONOMY SUPERFAST BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT UPDATE (FILE ED8) Appendix II
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching Postcode and Annex 1A map. The report provided the undernoted detail:-
Background
Members would note that The Economic Development Section and the Regeneration Section (Rural Partners) were already working strategically together to improve current and future broadband provision in the Borough. In addition to the existing funds that have been set aside under the Rural Development Programme (a potential £126,000 for the Borough), further collaborative work was being carried out between the Council’s Economic Development section and the Department for the Economy to address the issue of Superfast Broadband deployment.
The Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project was set up by the then Department for Enterprise Trade & Investment in 2014 to provide basic broadband services in areas that have no service and to improve connectivity in areas where the choice of poor or broadband speeds were slow. Just under £24m was provided by the EU, central government and by BT (which successfully tendered for the project) to implement the scheme to over 45,000 premises across NI by December 2015. According to the Department, whilst many premises had seen an improvement in connectivity speed, due to technical limitations with the available technology not everyone had been able to access even basic broadband services.
The Department for the Economy (DfE) indicated in September 2016 that it had identified potential additional funding to try and address some of the deficit and BT was asked to model the ‘final intervention areas’ to be covered under the scheme. DfE undertook an online public consultation process before Christmas outlining its proposals and officers then entered into discussions with Departmental officials to look at those parts of the Borough where broadband coverage was poor or non- existent. Through a desktop exercise officers identified up to 276 postcodes across the Borough as in need of improvement to connectivity. The list was sent to DfE for consideration on 2 December 2016 and on 22 March 2017, officers were invited to a briefing when DfE outlined its plans to roll out further improvements across Northern Ireland.
At the briefing DfE announced £4 million had been found to assist with the further deployment of ‘superfast broadband’ for a select number of postcode areas (using a modelling exercise designed by BT). The £4 million of new funding was for all of
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Northern Ireland and was additional to the mainstream broadband service improvements that BT was currently carrying out for its customer base.
In the Ards and North Down Borough Council area 33 postcodes had been identified. According to DfE the modelling exercise was considered to produce ‘the optimal value for money coverage’.
DfE asked the Councils present at the briefing to either approve the final list of postcodes or propose amendments by no later than Wednesday 12 April 2017. Officers made it clear that Councils would have expected to have been given more time to be consulted given the potential impact that the project may have on broadband improvements to local households and to commercial premises in the Borough. DfE stated that if Councils wish to propose amendments to the list of postcodes, a business case would have to be presented taking into account the criteria set out as foot note at the end of this report, but that there was no guarantee that any changes proposed would be approved. The improvement works would be undertaken from January to March 2018. DfE also indicated it was possible that not all premises within a particular postcode would benefit from a superfast broadband service.
Councils had been invited to consider the proposed postcode areas and either accept those set out or propose amendments. The extremely tight timeframe did not allow detailed research to be carried out to analyse the impact of those postcodes on improving broadband provision in the Borough, and DfE had confirmed that there was no guarantee that any suggested changes would be accepted.
Whilst the impact of the additional work may be limited, given the limited resources and the NI wide scope of the scheme, it is welcomed that there would some additional benefit for the Borough. DfE had indicated that failure to meet the 12 April deadline would have resulted in delays to the process and a reduction in the number of postcodes that could be provided with an improved service within the project timescale.
Officers had therefore responded to the DfE stating their disappointment at the lack of time allowed to respond constructively to the BT proposals. However, the addition of the 33 postcodes, had been accepted in principle with an option to come back with further comments or amendments following Council discussion and review.
As and when new broadband strategies were introduced, DfE had expressed its wish to work more closely with local Councils to ensure that there was sufficient time available to consider a range of development options.
RECOMMENDED that Council notes the response to accept the addition of the 33 proposed postcodes by DfE/BT with the option to revert with additional comments or amendments following further analysis would be done in conjunction with the Rural Broadband scheme.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Gilmour, seconded by Councillor Armstrong–Cotter, that the recommendation be adopted.
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7. VILLAGE PLAN UPDATE (FILE 141858) Appendix III
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching village plan presentation template. The report detailed that as Members would be aware, the process of prioritising projects within the sixteen individual village plans across the Borough took place towards the end of 2016. Village Plan Groups had been formed and a number of the planned meetings across the Ards and North Down Borough Council area had now taken place and the following actions completed:
- 13 meetings had been held with Village Plan Groups, which consisted of representatives from local organisations, namely Portaferry, Portavogie, Cloughey, Ballygowan, Ballywalter, Ballyhalbert, Groomsport, Helen’s Bay & Crawfordsburn, Killinchy, Kircubbin, Greyabbey, Lisbane & Lisbarnet and Millisle.
- Those Village Plan Groups each received the sample presentation providing an overview of the process of prioritising Council led projects from their Village Plans. County Down Community Network had provided support to Council officers in facilitating and organising those meetings.
Each Village had been given time following the initial meeting to consider the points raised and provide feedback and comments for Council consideration. The initial discussions had highlighted that a number of existing village plan actions are now nearly completed, therefore there was a need to update and review these plans. It was anticipated that a funding application would be made to the Rural Development Programme to fund this type of activity. In addition, a number of villages had highlighted gateway signage and environmental improvement works as priority projects.
Officers were currently in the process of completing these initial village plan meetings, with Conlig, Six Road Ends and Carrowdore planned to take place in the near future.
It was anticipated that the exercise would have been completed by the end of March 2017, however, due to unforeseen circumstances in terms of arranging suitable meeting dates, this original timescale had slipped. It was envisaged that a report and Village Action workplan would be prepared by the end of May for consideration. Following the report, the process of seeking funding support from the Rural Development Programme would commence. It was intended to seek support towards at least one project per village up to the value of £50,000 from the fund.
Going forward there would be regular contact with the Groups regarding the ongoing implementation of their Village Plans. Since April, two Assistant Regeneration Officers had been appointed and were now in post to assist these Groups to ensure that regeneration projects were implemented in line with Village Action Plans.
RECOMMENDED that the Council agrees to note the above.
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Councillor Adair commended the Officers for the hard work stating he was encouraged by the content of the report. He explained that there had been concern and anxiety amongst the village communities that the village plans would not be delivered. He felt that the report addressed those concerns and provided reassurance that delivery and investment would occur and that the village plans would be living documents. Councillor Adair was encouraged by the future steps and wished to ensure the initiatives were for the whole community. He noted the use of the Rural Development Fund as a funding stream but hoped Officers would explore all funding avenues. Councillor Adair hoped by this time next year at least one of the initiatives within each of the village plans would be delivered. He highlighted Ballyhalbert, Greyabbey and Carrowdore as villages which had not seen much investment in recent years and he felt those villages should be a priority.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Adair, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the recommendation be adopted.
8. CRAFT DEVELOPMENT OUTPUTS 2016/17
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning detailing that the Craft Development service organised six annual events and also managed the Council’s Craft and Design Centre, Ards Crafts. The officers undertake Artist Engagement and creative event programming at Project 24, as well as operating a number of business development programmes for the craft sector in conjunction with Signal Business Centre and external stakeholders. Also, the officers represented the Council in terms of advocacy, lobbying and support for the Creative Industries which were currently valued at “a record £84.1 billion to the UK economy”.
Events
The Craft Development Service’s flagship event, the Creative Peninsula experienced a very successful 15th year. Running from 5 – 14 August, in excess of 24k visitors enjoyed all its events representing a 20% increase on last year’s visitor and participation numbers. The event was delivered within budget at a cost per head of visitor estimated at £0.75.
The Unit currently had a database in excess of 155 Visual Artists and Craft businesses in the Borough, making Ards and North Down the most populated local authority area in NI in terms of numbers of creative businesses. Following the event 87% of Craft Businesses and Artists surveyed rated the Creative Peninsula event as excellent or very good for its organisation and structure. 60% rated the event as excellent or very good for profiling and generating sales opportunities. 97% of Visitors surveyed across workshops, tours, Craft in the Square and Craft in the Hub rated the event as excellent or very good. 60% of visitors were local to AND Borough with 76% continuing their visit with other activities.
The most successful element of the overall event was Craft in the Square in Conway Square on Friday 5 August where over 30 exhibitors enjoyed in excess of 4k visitors to their stands. Based on the results of the event evaluation survey and the number
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RDC.04.05.17 PM of creative businesses who responded, 67% generated income on the day of up to £250 and 33% generated income of up to £500.
Bookable Creative Workshops, including those hosted in local café businesses, experienced a 96% sell through rate. Bookable Creative Coach Tours enjoyed a 100% sell through rate generating income in total across both of £2.9k ex vat. Craft in the Hub at Project 24 on Saturday 13 August was well attended by both local craft businesses and visitors. Open Studios were hosted by 30 craft businesses and artists with visitor numbers in the region of 1.1k based on feedback. Visitors were both local, regional and international.
The Creative Peninsula Christmas Craft Fayre
This year (2016) was the third year of this very successful and prestigious event, designed to run alongside the UK Small Biz Saturday campaign. The event was delivered within budget at a cost per head of visitor estimated at £1.67.
Over 2k visitors spent time at the event, where over 28 exhibitors had selling stands over a 2-day period. Visitor numbers represented a 24 % increase on 2015 numbers. Over 53% of craft businesses who responded to an online survey experienced sales in excess of £250 and of these 24% experienced sales in excess of £500. 73% of visitors to the Craft Fayre were from the AND Borough and 27% were from outside of the Borough. Many of those were repeat visitors to the event.
General comments from the public suggested that the event was, as always, in keeping with the quality standards of the professional Makers taking part. An example of comments suggested a ‘fabulous event, great layout, lovely atmosphere, great quality and nice touches e.g. music, coffee, mulled wine’.
Spring into Craft
This new event was delivered in Conway Square on 31 March 2017 within budget and a net cost of approximately £1.70 per head of visitor. This event was designed as a direct result of the success of the annual Craft in the Square event. The objective of Spring into Craft was to launch the annual craft season and to provide opportunities for Makers to market not only their work but workshops and other associated income generating avenues. Despite poor weather at the onset, the event attracted around 3k visitors from the local area and as far as Lisburn, Downpatrick and Belfast.
Over 28 local professional craft businesses and artists took part, providing taster drop in free workshops and demos throughout the day. 11% of those who responded generated income on the day of between £500 and £1000. 66% generated income of between £250 and £1000. This event was successful with both Makers and visitors commenting on its potential as an event that could run more than twice each year (Spring into Craft and Craft in the Square).
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Art in the Loft and Meet the Maker
These small exhibition events take place in the Loft Gallery at Portaferry Visitor Centre and in Ards Crafts, Craft and Design Centre in Newtownards. They have been running successfully for over 14 years and 6 years respectively. Their objective was to profile local and invited Artists and Makers, but more importantly provide an additional vehicle to drive footfall to the Visitor Centre in Portaferry and to the Ards Crafts retail centre in Newtownards.
Craft Business Development Programmes
The Craft Development service has worked successfully with Signal Business Centre in 2016/2017 to deliver focussed business programmes for the craft sector. The Craft Development Manager led a proposal to host a new Craft Programme called Craft-Tech using the services of FabLab Belfast (Fabrication laboratory) to encourage Makers to explore the use of technology to enhance their design and product development capabilities.
The Programme was successfully delivered between January and March 2017 and acted as a catalyst to new design development, with Makers exploring 3D Modelling, Laser cutting and 3D design software. Many visited the Laboratory in Belfast and are now beginning to use the skills learnt to develop products that they may not previously have considered. That would open up many opportunities for them as well as improving the cost efficiency of their business.
A successful business mentoring programme was carried out for all Project 24 Pod Artists from January through to March 2017.
Creative Industries Mapping and Internalisation
The Craft Development and Economic Development Managers have worked with TypeAB Consulting to carry out a Mapping exercise of the Creative Industries in the Ards and North Down Borough area with a view to finding opportunities for clustering, cross fertilisation and collaboration within the sector. The results of this piece of work would be available shortly.
A proposed visit to the Lapua region of Finland, as a consequence of previous work carried out by the Craft Development Manager over a number of years, was being developed currently. The visit would address opportunities for best practice, networking and possible cultural exchanges with the craft and artisan food sectors. A further report on that would be presented in the near future.
RECOMMENDED that the Committee notes the report.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Irvine, seconded by Councillor Menagh, that the recommendation be adopted.
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9. PROJECT 24 UPDATE APRIL 2017
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning detailing the undernoted:-
Background
Project 24 was an innovative and impressive project that continues to capture the public’s interest, bringing vibrancy and interest to Bangor seafront.
Project 24 utilises six bespoke artist pods split into two individual artists’ mini studios, creating 12 studios.
Project 24 received funding from the Department for Communities in October 2016.
Funding amount received: £80,500.00
Funding stipulations: All spend must occur between October 2016 – 31 March 2017 and meet the funding targets.
Artist Summary
15no artists took residency within Project 24 from April 2016 – March 2017.
Artists specialised in a range of mediums to include painting, printmaking, textiles, fine art, mixed media and drawing.
Artist contracts ranged from 3months to 12month periods.
Event Summary
Project 24 hosted a variety of high quality events such as art and craft workshops, music events and unique performances.
Project 24 continued to collaborate with the local communities to deliver community events. Project 24 has partnerships with YMCA, For A Better Bangor and Harbour Ward Residents’ Association.
A total of 22 events took place from April 2016 – March 2017.
Total Cost: £48,932.72 Total Visitor Numbers: 67,470 (increase of 24,260 from previous year) Average Cost per Head: £0.58 (decrease of £0.12 from previous year)
April 2016 – March 2017 Events:
Event Date Cost Visitor Cost per No’s head Food Assembly Weekly - 3month period £340.00 5,000 £0.07
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Jump NI - Parkour Every Friday evening from £0.00 600 £0.00 Jul/Aug/Sep 5-7pm Sketch on a Sunday 24 April 2016 £0.00 150 £0.00 Open Art 30 April 2016 £0.00 200 £0.00 Craft/ Artisan Food 30 April 2016 £0.00 200 £0.00 Market Artist Talks – Visual 14 May 2016 £0.00 20 £0.00 Arts Craft in the Hub 28 May 2016 £1,250.00 700 £1.78 NDCN Awards 09 June 2016 £0.00 250 £0.00 Culture Kids 18-19 June 16 £1,500.00 1100 £1.36 Rewind in Time 16 July 2016 £4,000.00 2400 £1.66 Ulster Fleadh 22-24 July 2016 £0.00 4500 £0.00 Messy Mornings 01/08/15/22/19 August 2016 £0.00 250 £0.00 Craft in The Hub 13 August 2016 £1,400.00 1000 £1.40 Sure Start Family 18 August 2016 £0.00 200 £0.00 Event Sundown Market 19 August 2016 £5,998.00 14000 £1.19 Sure Start Dad's 24 August 2016 £0.00 300 £0.00 Family Fun Day End of Summer 28 August 2016 £3,456.72 6500 £0.55 BBQ Open Pod Evening 03 October 2016 £1,475.00 1000 £1.47 Haunted Hub 29 October 2016 £6,000.00 4000 £0.70 Craft in The Hub 19 November 2016 £1,700.00 2100 £0.81 Magical Moments 03-04 December 2016 £6,813.00 8000 £0.85 Christmas Sundown 10 December 2016 £15,000.00 15000 £1.00 Market
Upcoming Events April 2017 – December 2017:
Event Description Date Allocated Expected Budget Visitor No’s Sundown Market Street traders, hot food stalls 27 May £10,000 10,000 as well as a speciality bar to 2017 include a full programme of live music entertainment. Movie Night Movie Night returns to Project 10 June £4,000 2,000 24. Film choice to be 2017 confirmed. Schools Out for A day of family fun to 01 July £6,000 8,000 Summer celebrate the start of the 2017 summer holidays. Street entertainers, music, crafts, stalls, children’s
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entertainment and more Local Community Details to be confirmed TBC TBC TBC Engagement Event Sundown Market Street traders, hot food stalls 19 August £10,000 10,000 as well as a speciality bar to 2017 include a full programme of live music entertainment Open Art Project 24 Artists and Makers 07 October £2,000 4,000 will be providing FREE drop in 2017 Workshops, Demonstrations and Artist Talks in the Pods and the Hub including Painting, working with clay, print and more. Halloween Event A day of family fun to 28 October £5,000.00 5,000 celebrate Halloween with 2017 music, children’s entertainment, performance and more Funding Overview:
Funding Target Achieved Budget Total Cost Balance Allocated Provide business -Visual Merchandising £5,000.00 £4,960.00 £40.00 mentoring/ training to the Training current artists -Social Media Training
Provide marketing to the -Newspaper £10,000.00 £9,999.02 £0.98 current artists and project advertising -Radio Advertising -Photography -Promotional Items -Flyers Purchase and install -Christmas feature £4,000.00 £3,635.00 £365.00 Christmas tree, lighting and lighting decorations* -Christmas Tree -Christmas motif lighting Carry out site maintenance -Power washing pods/ £9,850.00 £9,510.32 £339.68 hub -Flooring for hub -Upgrade works to community garden Create and maintain onsite -Halloween Event £41,650.00 £41,176.11 £473.89 animation (events) -Christmas Event -Sundown Market Event -Light Festival Event
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Purchase gazebos for -26no gazebos £10,000.00 £10,000.00 £0.00 events* purchased
*Retained for future use by Council
Total Amount Allocated: £80,500.00 Total Spend Incurred: £79,280.45 Balance: £1,219.55
RECOMMENDED that the Committee notes the report.
Councillor Wilson and Alderman Irvine welcomed the range of events that had taken place. Alderman Irvine asked if the problems still existed with anti-social behaviour in the area.
The Head of Regeneration advised that unfortunately sporadic instances of vandalism were still taking place. Recently the hub area had been damaged with the tent having been attempted to be set on fire. He advised that regular meetings occurred with the PSNI, YMCA and the Council’s Community Safety team in an attempt to continue to address the issue.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Wilson, seconded by Alderman Irvine, that the recommendation be adopted.
10. REVITALISATION SCHEMES
(a) Bangor Revitalisation Scheme Appendix IV
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching Shop Frontage Overview and Marketing Campaign Evaluation. The report detailed that following on from the public realm works, the Department for Communities made revitalisation funding available to the Council for Bangor town centre. The purpose of the funding was to support the local traders in the development of their businesses, improve the attractiveness of the shop frontages, promote the town as a destination for shoppers and enhance footfall into the town centre whilst improving the visitor experience.
A Revitalisation Committee was set up with equal numbers of elected members and trader representatives working in partnership.
The Revitalisation Committee developed a prioritised action plan.
Council Officers submitted an application for funding to the Department and the Council was successful in securing £250,000.00. The Council and the town centre traders, as a requirement of the DFC funding, contributed a further £102,329.64 (Council £25,874.30 and Traders £76,455.34)
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Council Officers, working with DFC Officials, successfully delivered Bangor Revitalisation Action Plan within budget and on time.
Funding Allocation
Total Budget £352,329.64
DFC Funding £250,000.00
Council Contribution £25,874.30 Trader Contribution £76,455.34
Financial Overview
Total Amount £352,329.64 Spend £338,772.48 Balance £13,557.16
Action Plan
Shop Frontage Facelift to shop frontage to improve the £251,377.67 appeal of the business Branding Development of concept and brand for Town £5,000.00 Centre Shopping Bags Design and production of Bangor branded £15,000.00 shopping bags Gateway Signage Entrance signs to welcome visitors £10,000.00 Event Event to showcase the Town; £31,528.71 Magical Moments, 03 & 04 December 2016 Town Centre Design and supply of branded promotional £3,366.10 Promotion items Marketing Integrated Marketing Campaign £22,500.00 Campaign
RECOMMENDED that the Committee notes the report.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Irvine, seconded by Councillor Leslie, that the recommendation be adopted.
(b) Holywood Revitalisation Scheme Appendix V
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching Shop Frontage Overview, Marketing Campaign Evaluation and Fashion AND Food in Holywood Event Evaluation. The report detailed that following on from the public realm works, the Department for Communities made revitalisation funding available to the Council for Holywood town centre. The purpose of this funding was to support the local traders in the development of their businesses, improve the attractiveness of the shop frontages,
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A Revitalisation Committee was set up with equal numbers of elected members and trader representatives working in partnership.
The Revitalisation Committee developed a prioritised action plan.
Council Officers submitted an application for funding to the Department and the Council was successful in securing £170,000.00. The Council and the town centre traders, as a requirement of the DFC funding, contributed a further £37,562.80 (Council £13,659.60 and Traders £23,903.20)
Council Officers, working with DFC Officials, successfully delivered Holywood Revitalisation Action Plan within budget and on time.
Funding Allocation
Total Budget £207,562.80
DFC Funding £170,000.00 Council Contribution £13,659.60 Trader Contribution £23,903.20
Financial Overview
Total Amount £207,562.80 Spend £206,316.94 Balance £1,245.86
Action Plan
Shop Frontage Facelift to shop frontage to improve the £79,380.33 appeal of the business Branding Development of concept and brand for Town £5,000.00 Centre Event Event to showcase the Town £9,988.00 Hooray for Holywood 12 March 2016 Billboards Advertising of Event £1,580.00 Archways Design, production and installation of 2no £22,300.00 bespoke archways for Pattons Lane and Grays Lane Shopping Bags Design and production of Holywood branded £13,811.20 shopping bags Training Social Media Training for businesses £9,900.00 Gateway Signage Entrance signs to welcome visitors £10,000.00 Event Event to showcase the Town; £32,070.61 Fashion AND Food in Holywood 24 & 25
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March 2017 Town Centre Design and supply of branded promotional £5,000.00 Promotion items Marketing Integrated Marketing Campaign £17,286.80 Campaign
RECOMMENDED that the Committee notes the report.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Gilmour, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the recommendation be adopted.
(c) Comber Revitalisation Scheme Appendix VI
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching Shop Frontage Overview and Marketing Campaign Evaluation. The report detailed that following on from the public realm works, the Department for Communities made revitalisation funding available to the Council for Comber town centre. The purpose of this funding was to support the local traders in the development of their businesses, improve the attractiveness of the shop frontages, promote the town as a destination for shoppers and enhance footfall into the town centre whilst improving the visitor experience.
A Revitalisation Committee was set up with equal numbers of elected members and trader representatives working in partnership.
The Revitalisation Committee developed a prioritised action plan.
Council Officers submitted an application for funding to the Department and the Council was successful in securing £149,954.64. The Council and the town centre traders, as a requirement of the DFC funding, contributed a further £35,034.07 (Council £10,000.00 and Traders £25,034.07)
Council Officers, working with DFC Officials, successfully delivered Comber Revitalisation Action Plan within budget and on time.
Funding Allocation
Total Budget £184,988.71
DFC Funding £149,954.64 Council Contribution £10,000.00 Trader Contribution £25,034.07
Financial Overview
Total Amount £184,988.71 Spend £181,670.97 Balance £3,317.74
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Action Plan
Shop Frontage Facelift to shop frontage to improve the £84,223.97 appeal of the business Branding Development of concept and brand for Town £5,000.00 Centre Town Centre Map Design and production of illustrative map for £4,625.00 Comber Town Centre Event Event to showcase the Town; £10,978.00 Curiously Comber 24 March 2016 Billboards Advertising of event £2,000.00 Shopping Bags Design and production of branded shopping £10,000.00 bags Training Social Media Training and Window Dressing £11,950.00 Training for businesses Fingerpost Design and production of fingerpost signage £2,094.00 Signage Gateway Signage Entrance signs to welcome visitors £10,000.00 Marketing Integrated Marketing Campaign £25,000.00 Campaign Banners Design and production of branded banners £800.00 for town centre Town Centre Design and supply of branded promotional £10,000.00 Promotion items Christmas Lights Christmas lighting to enhance Christmas Tree £5,000.00 and The Square
RECOMMENDED that the Committee notes the report.
Councillor Cummings congratulated Officers for the work that had been undertaken through the revitalisation and steering groups. He advised that the scheme had created healthy competition amongst the local businesses.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Cummings, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the recommendation be adopted.
(d) Newtownards Revitalisation Scheme Appendix VII
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching Shop Frontage Overview, Marketing Campaign Evaluation and #LoveArds Event Evaluation. The report detailed that following on from the public realm works, the Department for Communities made revitalisation funding available to the Council for Newtownards town centre. The purpose of this funding was to support the local traders in the development of their businesses, improve the attractiveness of the shop frontages, promote the town as a destination for shoppers and enhance footfall into the town centre whilst improving the visitor experience.
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A Revitalisation Committee was set up with equal numbers of elected members and trader representatives working in partnership.
The Revitalisation Committee developed a prioritised action plan. Council Officers submitted an application for funding to the Department and the Council was successful in securing £299,999.19. The Council and the town centre traders, as a requirement of the DFC funding, contributed a further £123,625.80 (Council £30,000.00 and Traders £93,625.80)
Council Officers, working with DFC Officials, successfully delivered Holywood Revitalisation Action Plan within budget and on time.
Funding Allocation
Total Budget £423,624.99
DFC Funding £299,999.19 Council Contribution £30,000.00 Trader Contribution £93,625.80
Financial Overview
Total Amount £423,624.99 Spend £414,899.02 Balance £8,725.97
Action Plan
Shop Frontage Facelift to shop frontage to improve the £295,142.45 appeal of the business Gateway Signage Entrance signs to welcome visitors £10,000.00 Christmas Lights Christmas lighting for town centre £29,000.00 Street Signage Design and installation of street name plates £4,426.37 Floral Planting Purchase and installation of additional £10,000.00 Scheme planters Marketing Integrated Marketing Campaign £25,000.00 Campaign Banners Design and print of branded banners for £1,700.00 Town Centre Shopping Bags Design and production of Newtownards £4,999.50 branded shopping bags Town Centre Design and supply of branded promotional £3,109.50 Promotion items Event Event to showcase the Town; £26,571.20 #LoveArds 03 & 04 March 2017
Training Social Media Training for businesses £4,950.00
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RECOMMENDED that the Committee notes the report.
Councillor Ferguson thanked those people for their involvement in the revitalisation group. She felt that the town was looking smart and the shop frontage scheme had been of great benefit.
In echoing those sentiments, Councillor Menagh stated that the town was looking fantastic. He wished to highlight that there were some issues accessing the broadband in the town. Furthermore, the Square and footpaths were in great need of a clean.
The Head of Regeneration stated that the shop frontage scheme had proved excellent for the town and had received a good uptake from the traders. He highlighted the amount of money that the traders had contributed towards the scheme across the towns and stated that a press release would be prepared to highlight that investment. The Head of Regeneration wished to place on record his thanks to the Councillors involved in the revitalisation groups which had worked well. In terms of the cleanliness of the footpaths, the Head of Regeneration advised that the Council had agreed to purchase its own machine to undertake that cleaning. To his knowledge, that machine had been ordered and delivery was awaited. Once the machinery was received the streets would be cleaned and a rolling programme would be prepared. The Head of Regeneration also undertook to pass on the concerns to his counterpart in the Environment Directorate.
In terms of the broadband, the Head of Regeneration advised that he would report the issues which Councillor Menagh had highlighted. He advised that the broadband contract was renewed on an annual basis.
Councillor Armstrong-Cotter welcomed the amount of money that had been contributed by the traders as part of the shop frontage scheme. The cooperation between the local traders and the Council had brought great benefit to the town and enhanced the area. She felt everyone should be really proud of what had been achieved and she welcomed that a press release would be prepared. Councillor Armstrong-Cotter advised that the footpaths were in need of a clean and there was also graffiti in the Square which would need immediate attention. Although recognising the work that had taken place, she stressed the importance of the Council continuing and building upon the work that had occurred.
Councillor Menagh was pleased to report that a meeting had been organised with Transport NI in respect of the roads issues in the town. A meeting was awaited in respect of the Old Cross.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Ferguson, seconded by Councillor Menagh, that the recommendation be adopted.
(e) Donaghadee Revitalisation Scheme Appendix VIII
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: - Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching Shop Frontage Overview and Donaghadee’s
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Big Weekend Event Evaluation. The report detailed that following on from the public realm works, the Department for Communities made revitalisation funding available to the Council for Donaghadee town centre. The purpose of the funding was to support the local traders in the development of their businesses, improve the attractiveness of the shop frontages, promote the town as a destination for shoppers and enhance footfall into the town centre whilst improving the visitor experience.
A Revitalisation Committee was set up with equal numbers of elected members and trader representatives working in partnership.
The Revitalisation Committee developed a prioritised action plan. Council Officers submitted an application for funding to the Department and the Council was successful in securing £170,000.00. The Council and the town centre traders, as a requirement of the DFC funding, contributed a further £38,265.35 (Council £17,000.00 and Traders £21,265.35)
Council Officers, working with DFC Officials, successfully delivered Donaghadee Revitalisation Action Plan within budget and on time.
Funding Allocation
Total Budget £208,265.35
DFC Funding £170,000.00 Council Contribution £17,000.00 Trader Contribution £21,265.35
Financial Overview
Total Amount £208,265.35 Spend £202,167.13 Balance £6,098.22
Action Plan
Shop Frontage Facelift to shop frontage to improve the £58,211.77 appeal of the business Branding Development of concept and brand for Town £5,000.00 Centre Event Event to showcase the Town; £10,000.00 Donaghadee’s Big Weekend 2016 Billboards Advertising of Event £2,000.00 Radio Campaign Advertising of Event £3,935.00 Voucher Booklet Design and production of a town centre £2,997.00 voucher booklet Shopping Bags Design and production of Donaghadee £4,999.20 branded shopping bags Outdoor Fitness Purchase and installation of 12no pieces of £26,000.00 Equipment outdoor fitness equipment
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Dereliction Works Improvement works to derelict properties £2,495.00 Training Window Display Training and Customer £13,150.00 Service Training for businesses Gateway Signage Entrance signs to welcome visitors £10,000.00 Floral Planting Purchase and installation of additional £6,000.00 Scheme planters Event Event to showcase the Town; £53,527.48 Donaghadee’s Big Weekend 2017 Banners Design and print of branded banners for £550.00 Town Centre Brackets Brackets installed for display of banners £2,700.00 Notice Board Design and installation of community/ trader £601.68 noticeboard
RECOMMENDED that the Committee notes the report.
Councillor Smith referred to the sand coloured finish on the footpaths on the seaward side which was wearing away. In response the Head of Regeneration explained the footpaths in Donaghadee where surfaced with a sand coloured finish and that wearing away was expected. However, he advised that the Consultant would be looking at the footpaths to ascertain if the sand finish had worn away to an unacceptable level.
Councillor Smith welcomed the work to the businesses that had participated in the shop frontage scheme. He noted that despite the weather Donaghadee’s Big Weekend had been a great success. Councillor Smith congratulated all those involved.
Councillor Walker reiterated those comments and highlighted the importance of Officers continuing to work with the DfC and widen the benefits to the villages.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Smith, seconded by Councillor Walker, that the recommendation be adopted.
The Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning advised that through the re-organisation of the Development Section, there would be an Officer dedicated to each of the town centres. The investment from the traders had amounted to a third of a million across the Borough. The Director highlighted the work of the Head of Regeneration and his team to ensure schemes were prepared for the deadline.
The Chairman congratulated the development team for the work that been undertaken.
NOTED.
11. REQUEST FROM ORANGE ORDER (FILE 140824) Appendix IX
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning attaching letter from District Secretary detailing that since 32
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2012, the Orange Order in Bangor had requested the use of lamp posts in both Hamilton Road and Abbey Street to display banners during the month of July. In previous years those had been themed to celebrate a centenary and the Queens Jubilee along with the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.
Attached to the report was a letter from the District Secretary requesting permission for banners to be erected in July this year on lamp posts on Upper Main Street and Abbey Street. The Secretary advised that the District was hosting the main demonstration for the Ards and North Down area.
The request was approved in previous years by the legacy North Down Borough Council and then Ards and North Down Borough Council subject to conditions regarding compliance with dates and materials used in particular:
1. The use of the banner sites would need Council approval. 2. The banners would be erected for the month of July only, subject to approved contractor availability. 3. All erection and dismantling of the banners would be via a Council approved contractor in order to satisfy insurance liability. 4. Costs of the creation and delivery of the Banners would not be met by Council but by the Orange Order. 5. All banners would need to meet the Council technical specification. 6. Brackets for the Banners would be provided and remain in the ownership of Council. 7. Approval for use in a year would not confer any future approvals. 8. Promotional banners would be erected by Council pre and post July. 9. Banners would promote the shared space of the Borough and provide an educational context. 10. Banners would not display offensive symbols or language. 11. Banners would not have paramilitary representation.
In each of the years this request had been approved there had been 100% compliance with the Council terms and conditions.
The request could be accommodated from a technical and operational perspective.
RECOMMENDED:-
1. It is recommended that Council considers the request from the Orange Order to erect Banners on Upper Main Street and Abbey Street.
2. Any Approval being granted is subject to the terms and conditions required by Council.
Having declared an interest in the item, Alderman Irvine withdrew from the meeting – 7.26 pm.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Ferguson, seconded by Councillor Adair, that the recommendations be adopted.
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(Councillor Adair withdrew from the meeting – 7.26 pm)
12. STRATEGY REPORT
The Head of Economic Development reminded Members in a verbal update that the Council had approved Paul Hogarth Company for the commissioning of the Council’s Economic Development Strategy. The first project initiation meeting had taken place and the Company were working to a 34-week timeline between April – November. The Company had presented to Officers exciting proposals and innovative ideas and also proposed an extensive consultation process with a wide range of stakeholders. The consultation process would include thematic groups, consultation events and themed workshops. The first stage of the process was desk research and a Borough profile which was currently underway. An early workshop for Elected Members was being arranged.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Walker, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the information be noted.
(Councillor Adair re-entered the meeting – 7.29 pm)
13. MINUTES OF HOLYWOOD TOWN STEERING GROUP MEETING DATED 25 APRIL 2017 Appendix X
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Copy of the above.
Arising from Item 3.1; Proposed by Councillor Gilmour, seconded by Councillor Adair that the Minutes be agreed but that item 3.1 be deferred to the Council meeting at the end of the month and that a report is prepared setting out the costs and any implications should the Council wish to reinstate the portion of the public realm in front of the Orange Hall/Radius Housing to its former design.
Councillor Gilmour explained that the proposal related to the reconfiguration of the area outside the Orange Hall, Redburn Square Holywood. She was raising concerns on behalf of Gordon Dunne MLA and Councillor Stephen Dunne whose concerns were in respect of the kerb line and the siting of the bus stop in that they felt the changes would obstruct the traffic flow. Three options had been presented to the Holywood Town Steering Group and following deliberations the Group had agreed to continue with the current proposal and give consideration to the relocation of the bus stop. She wished to ascertain by requesting a report what the implications would be if the kerbline and the bus stop remained, how would that impact the overall timetable of the scheme, what additional costs would that mean and if the alternations occurred would the scheme be ready for Remembrance Day.
The Head of Regeneration wished to be clear that the works undertaken were part of the original tender and by the end of the month the works were likely to be complete. No complaints had been received at the design stage and to date the only complaints received were from Mr Gordon Dunne MLA and Councillor Stephen Dunne. He stressed that at this stage any changes could lead to around £10,000 additional costs including new building materials, compensation to the builders and 34
RDC.04.05.17 PM the design team, the submission of a new planning application and additional consultation to be undertaken. He felt that if that was to occur it would be highly unlikely that the works would be complete by Remembrance Day. The Head of Regeneration advised that the road design was displayed at concept stage. What he described as the ‘bulge’ in the road was still 7.24m in width which provided ample room for traffic to flow. Transport NI had felt the alternations would be an improvement to the area.
Councillor Adair added his support to the proposal highlighting that Mr Gordon Dunne MLA and Councillor Stephen Dunne had brought forward the concerns on behalf of residents. The traders in Hibernia Street had concerns regarding the impact the change in the relocation of the bus stop would have on traffic flow and it was felt that it was best that the matter be investigated now.
Councillor Wilson raised a question in respect of protocol. The Director clarified that if the proposal was agreed a report would be presented at the Council meeting at the end of the month.
Councillor Walker felt uneasy regarding the proposal. A town wide consultation had been undertaken and plenty of opportunity had been given for the concerns to be voiced and alterations to be made. He believed at this late stage any delay and alterations would cost additional money.
Councillor Menagh highlighted that the Cenotaph was currently in a disgraceful condition with rubbish piled up around the monument.
The Head of Regeneration advised that as Members would be aware the War Memorial would be moved location and the statue of the soldier had been taken away for that to occur. The proposal for the area sought to make Redburn Square a more usable, communal open space and this was the basis of the application to the Department for Communities for funding.
Councillor Menagh felt the statue of the soldier should have been taken away before work commenced and rubbish was piled around.
Councillor Smith highlighted that agreeing to the amendment was not going to cost anything at this stage and clarified that the proposal was not asking for the work to stop. The report would outline the detail for the Council to make an informed decision.
(Councillor Menagh withdrew from the meeting – 7.44 pm)
Alderman McDowell stated that there would be cost of Officers time for compiling the report. He wished to ensure that there would no additional costs or impact at this stage.
(Councillor Menagh re-entered the meeting – 7.45 pm)
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Alderman McDowell felt a dangerous precedent was being set. The Council had gone through the process and now was deciding to do something different. He expressed concerns in respect of the impact on the scheme and any potential delay.
The Head of Regeneration stated that work would continue and the Committee did not have the executive powers to stop the works. Consultant’s costs would be incurred for providing detail for him to prepare the additional report.
In summing up, Councillor Gilmour clarified that she wished for a further report on the matter to clear up any confusion that may exist. The report would allow the Council to make an informed decision. She noted that there was a potential for the works to be completed by the Council meeting and it was important that all works were complete for Remembrance Day. Councillor Gilmour hoped Members would support her request for additional information.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Gilmour, seconded Councillor Adair that the minutes of the Holywood Town Steering Group be agreed with the exception of Item 3.1 relating to Redburn Square and that this be deferred to the Council meeting with a request for additional information.
The proposal was put to the meeting and declared carried with 9 voting FOR, 3 AGAINST, 3 ABSENT and 2 ABSTENTIONS.
EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Irvine, seconded by Councillor Ferguson, that the public/press be excluded during the discussion of the undernoted items of confidential business.
14. NI RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME 2014-2020 – UPDATE (CG10187BPT V) Appendix XI
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
15. ARDS AND BANGOR VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE ANNUAL REPORT 2016/2017 Appendix XII
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
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Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
RE-ADMITTANCE OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Smith, seconded by Councillor Armstrong-Cotter, that the public/press be re-admitted to the meeting.
16. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
(a) Chairman’s Remarks
The Chairman advised that this was the last meeting to be attended by the Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning and she took the opportunity to thank her for her help and support during her time in that role. She wished her well in her future endeavours. Also as it was her last meeting as Chairman she thanked the Head of Regeneration, the Vice-Chairman and the Committee for their support during her term.
The Committee presented the Director with a gift and applauded.
The Director thanked the Committee advising that the role had been an enormous challenge but one she had learnt a lot from. She wished the Committee well for the future.
Members of the Committee spoke in turn about the work of the Director and the outgoing Chairman. They paid tribute to the work the Director had undertaken and described her as dedicated, efficient and professional.
NOTED.
TERMINATION OF MEETING
The meeting terminated at 8.04 pm.
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Item 7.4
ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
A meeting of the Corporate Services Committee was held in the Council Chamber, 2 Church Street, Newtownards on Tuesday, 9 May 2017 at 7.00 pm.
PRESENT:
In the Chair: Councillor McIlveen
Aldermen: Carson Gibson Graham Keery McDowell
Councillors: Barry Muir (7.03 pm) Brooks Smith Chambers Smart Kennedy
Officers: Director of Organisational Development and Administration (W Monson), Interim Director of Finance and Performance (J Pentland), Head of Administration (A Martin) and Democratic Services Officer (J Glasgow)
1. APOLOGIES
An apology for inability to attend was received from Councillor Gilmour. An apology for lateness was received from Councillor Muir.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
No declarations of interest were notified.
3. REQUEST TO ERECT/INSTALL COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUES AT BANGOR AND DONAGHADEE – OPERATION LION (FILE CG 11911/141029) Appendix I
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Organisational Development and Administration attaching images of: 1. Proposed Plaque, 2. Boulder and 2.A plaque on a plinth. The report provided the undernoted detail:-
Request from Ulster Scots Agency In 2014, the Ulster Scots Agency wrote separately to both Ards Borough Council and North Down Borough Council seeking to collaborate with them to install commemorative plaques and/or interpretive signage at Bangor and Donaghadee harbours (and also Larne) where the SS Clyde Valley discharged its cargo during Operation Lion on 24 and 25 April 1914. Operation Lion was described as “one of CS.09.05.17 the most dramatic events of the Third Home Rule Crisis, when a massive shipment of armaments was imported to Ulster aboard the SS Clyde Valley to arm the Ulster Volunteers”.
Legacy Council responses
Ards Borough Council Upon receipt of the above letter, Ards Borough Council agreed in March 2014 “to collaborate with the Ulster Scots Agency to install a commemorative plaque/ interpretive signage at Donaghadee Harbour and, further, that the Council takes full responsibility for the ownership and wording of the plaque and was responsible for writing all associated speeches”.
The decision reflected some concerns expressed during the debate on this matter that the wording, as proposed by the Ulster Scots Agency, contained some inaccuracies. Further, members had stated the SS Clyde Valley had not in fact docked at Donaghadee Harbour.
The Council subsequently wrote to the Ulster Scots Agency on 28 March 2014 agreeing to collaborate with it on the basis described above. It also highlighted that the Department of the Environment owned Donaghadee Harbour and that the erection of a plaque would require its permission and approval. Follow up calls were made but at the date of merger, 1 April 2015, or since that date, there was no record of a response having been received by the Council.
North Down Borough Council While a letter was on file from the Ulster Scots Agency, there was no record of that correspondence having been processed through a Committee or a decision being taken on how to respond.
Current Position The Ulster Scots Agency contacted the Regeneration, Development and Planning Directorate in 2016 seeking an update on this matter and suggesting that, rather than signage being attached to the Harbours at Bangor and Donaghadee, it could be affixed to a boulder or plinth.
In relation to Donaghadee Harbour, parts of the Harbour (the harbour piers and crane) were listed by the NIEA’s Historic Buildings Unit. A proposal to erect a plaque or signage at these locations would therefore require Listed Building Consent. The process to obtain Listed Building Consent includes consultation and could be time consuming.
To erect a plinth or boulder at either harbour locations may require planning permission.
A number of elected members had been approached by the Ulster Scots Agency about that matter with a view to having it progressed.
While it appeared from email correspondence that Larne Borough Council had agreed to locate a boulder at Chaine Memorial Road, adjacent to the Clyde Valley
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Memorial, this decision was not actioned and it was understood that the Ulster Scots Agency was pursuing the project with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
RECOMMENDED that the Council enters into further discussions with the Ulster Scots Agency with a view to exploring options for the plaques, their wording and their location; and that officers bring back a comprehensive report with proposals in due course.
Further RECOMMENDED that the Council has specific views on the wording of the plaques, this is made known to officers at this stage, to assist with the above discussions.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Keery, seconded by Councillor Barry, that the recommendations be adopted.
4. STREAMLINING OF EQUALITY SCREENING INTO ALL POLICY DEVELOPMENT AND DECISION MAKING Appendices II - III
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Organisational Development and Administration attaching screening summary table and policy development process. The report provided the undernoted detail:-
1. Background
Ards and North Down Borough Council was committed to ensuring that Section 75 duties and responsibilities were addressed in relation to all policy decisions taken. That was demonstrated in the Council’s Equality Scheme, approved by the Council and agreed by the Equality Commission NI on 25 March 2015.
In the context of Section 75, ‘policy’ was very broadly defined and it covered all the ways in which we carry out or propose to carry out our functions in relation to Northern Ireland. In respect of the equality scheme, the term policy was used for any (proposed/amended/existing) strategy, policy initiative or practice and/or decision, whether written or unwritten and irrespective of the label given to it, e.g. ‘draft’, ‘pilot’, ‘high level’ or ‘sectoral’.
2. Initiatives to Assist
A Policy Development Process had been developed which took into account its responsibilities under S75 to ensure equality of opportunity and good relations were promoted in all decisions.
A Covering Policy Sheet for Policy Documents had been agreed and was recommended for use in all policy development cases.
A Guide for Officers on the Screening Process had been available on the Council’s Intranet since 2016. That allowed any manager to screen policies without always relying on the availability of the Compliance Officer (Equality and Safeguarding) (who will from hereon be referred to as the Compliance Officer).
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Diversity Awareness Training Sessions had been delivered to 350 members of staff to date and this training includes a reference to the Council’s responsibilities to screen all of its policies and explained what the process involves. The Council hosted an annual event for employees entitled “It Takes Allsorts” which further reinforced the S75 agenda.
Committee/Council Report templates had a section containing a prompt to ensure all policies were S75 compliant. That would be reviewed to ensure that the prompts were more direct and that there was no opportunity for officers to state that equality screening in the context of their report or its content was “not applicable” without giving an explanation.
3. Process
All policies, provided they were identified to the relevant officer, were recorded and screened. Screening was carried out by the responsible officer and the Compliance Officer. An internal screening group, consisting of officers from across all Council Directorates, then objectively reviews the screening outcome. Amendments, when identified, were duly made to the policy. The Council was the only local authority in Northern Ireland to have an established external consultative panel in relation to ensuring meaningful engagement on the outcomes of all screened policies. The Panel consisted of representatives of each of the S75 categories and they receive training to enable them to carry out their role competently. A process had been in place since 2015 whereby Notices of Motion submitted by elected members to Democratic Services were referred to the Compliance Officer in advance of the Council meeting at which they were scheduled to be tabled. Comments on potential S75 issues or concerns were made and emailed to the Director of OD and Administration and Head of Administration. That was currently an informal process and relied on them communicating the issues and concerns to the appropriate officer.
4. Review of Process
The Compliance Officer had reviewed the current process and had made some recommendations as to how the process could be strengthened to ensure that the importance of screening was highlighted and that screening was undertaken in every policy development eventuality.
The Screening Summary table illustrated the sources of potential policies and amendments to policies made outside of officers’ control and offers a pathway to enable officers to screen policies and amendments in a timely and appropriate manner.
RECOMMENDED that: 1. The Council takes out the “Not Applicable” option on the Committee/Council report template and replaces it with “Other”, and includes a section seeking an explanation of “Other”.
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2. The Compliance Officer delivers training on completing screening templates to relevant officers. 3. S75 comments on Notices of Motion are sent by the Compliance Officer to the Director/Head of Service responsible for writing the report on the subject matter to ensure they are incorporated into policy development/ recommendations. 4. When screened policies have been agreed by a Committee but are amended at the ratifying Council meeting, the Chief Executive (or presiding Director), will state that these will be marked in the minutes as “Resolved…subject to Equality Screening”
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Gibson, seconded by Councillor Chambers, that the recommendations be adopted.
5. REQUEST FOR TEMPORARY CAR PARK AT CASTLE PARK, BANGOR (NI WATER) (FILE LP36) Appendix IV
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Organisational Development and Administration attaching map. The report detailed that the Council had received a request from NI Water for a licence to construct a temporary car park at Castle Park to the rear of the Marquis Hall for a period of approximately six weeks. The next phase of works at Castle Park required the laying of large diameter pipes along St. Malachy’s Way and necessitated the closure of the access to the church car park. The temporary car park would facilitate the users of the Parish Hall.
Council Officers had been consulted on the request and have no objections. It was proposed that a licence be granted subject to NI Water:
indemnifying the Council against all claims which may result from the works and furnishing Council with a copy of the relevant insurance policy. paying the exclusive use licence fee, as determined by LPS. meeting the Council’s legal fees. reinstating the areas to the satisfaction of the Council’s officers. planning and undertaking the works in such a manner as to cause minimal disruption to the surrounding area. creating a temporary path (position agreed by Council) around the area whilst the works were being carried out. erecting appropriate safety fencing whilst the works are being carried out.
RECOMMENDED that the Council accedes to the request and grants a suitable licence for the construction of a temporary car park for a period of six weeks, subject to the conditions set out above.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Graham, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the recommendation be adopted.
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6. REVISED NO SMOKING POLICY – TO INCLUDE PROHIBITION OF USE OF E-CIGARETTES/ VAPES (FILE HS3) Appendix V
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Organisational Development and Administration attaching Smoking Policy and Procedures. The report provided the undernoted detail:-
Background The Council had had a ‘No Smoking’ policy in place in its premises and vehicles since 2007 whereby smoking of tobacco has been prohibited and signs have been displayed informing employees, customers and visitors of the policy. That policy had now been reviewed to address the growing use of electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, e-cigs, vaporisers and vapes.
The revised policy acknowledges that the effects of using e-cigarettes on personal health and wellbeing and on the health of others are inconclusive but that their use was around 95% safer than smoking tobacco. It was also acknowledged that e- cigarettes were often used by people who were trying to quit smoking. Their use was not currently covered by smokefree legislation.
Consultation Consultation had been undertaken with the Corporate Leadership Team, Heads of Service, Staff Consultative Committee, Corporate Health and Safety Committee, Directorate Health and Safety Committee, Operational Health and Safety Working Groups and the Council’s Health and Wellbeing Group. A number of comments and suggestions were made during the consultation process which had since been considered and reflected in the final policy and procedures.
Supporting Research and Evidence The policy was compiled with reference to research and data provided by the World Health Organisation, British Medical Association, Public Health Agency NI, DHSSPSNI and the Council’s Environmental Health section.
A document, published by the Public Health Agency NI, entitled “Tobacco Control Northern Ireland” stated that “E-cigarettes are designed to look and feel like cigarettes; however, they are not licensed nicotine replacement products. These products are not regulated in terms of their safety and therefore the level of risk associated with their use is unknown.”
Advice from the British Medical Association states that:- E-cigarettes are battery operated products designed to replicate smoking behaviour without the use of tobacco – some look like conventional cigarettes, while others appear more like an electronic device. They use heat to vaporise a liquid-based solution containing aerosol mist and have been proposed as a way to help smokers quit the habit. But there is a lack of rigorous, peer reviewed studies to support the use of e-cigarettes as a safe and effective nicotine replacement therapy. They are also subject to limited regulation.*…These devices may also undermine efforts to prevent or stop smoking by making cigarette use seem normal in public and at work. At the BMA’s Annual Meeting, members agreed that electronic cigarettes should be
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CS.09.05.17 included in the ban on smoking in public places.” * In January 2016, UK regulators issued a licence for an electronic cigarette, thereby classing it a medicine and paving the way for its prescription as a smoking cessation aid.
While some experts believe that many lives could be saved by swapping smoking for vaping, questions remained over their long-term safety and regulation and the World Health Organisation recommends banning their indoor use. In recent weeks, research carried out by the University of California’s Oral Oncology Unit concluded that vaping was no safer than smoking as the process can still damage DNA and lead to cancer; and Tim Ballard, Royal College of General Practitioners stated that “GPs should be wary of prescribing them (electronic cigarettes) until there was clear evidence of their safety and of their efficacy in helping people to quit”.
Current Situation The Public Health Agency was pushing for all public authorities to operate smoke free premises, including the curtilage of buildings, with a view to promoting smoke free public spaces in the longer term. It advocated that e-cigarettes should be regarded similarly to tobacco cigarettes as not enough was known about their long- term health effects; they glamorise smoking, especially for young people, and make the habit more attractive. Health Trusts in Northern Ireland, while encouraging the use of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid, acknowledge that there was no conclusive evidence that they were beneficial.
The Council promoted a smoking cessation programme, the latest tranche of which would be launched to coincide with the introduction of the policy.
RECOMMENDED that the Policy and Procedures be adopted and implemented.
(Councillor Muir entered the meeting – 7.03 pm)
Proposed by Councillor Smith, seconded by Councillor Kennedy that the recommendation be adopted.
Alderman Carson stated that he did have a problem accepting the recommendation given that it was not law. He referred to an extract which detailed that e-cigarettes gave out negligible levels of nicotine and did not present a health risk. Alderman Carson felt that given the Assembly had not legislated the use of the e-cigarettes he viewed the policy as premature and pre-emptive. Alderman Carson suggested a deferral of the policy until the law was introduced.
Councillor Smith referred to page 2 of the report which stated that the Public Health Agency was pushing for all public authorities to operate smoke free premises and that e-cigarettes should be regarded similarly to tobacco cigarettes as not enough was known about their long-term health effects. He noted the concern that there were other substances within the e-cigarettes.
Alderman Graham expressed sympathy with those who felt the desire to smoke. However, he felt the policy was a step in the right direction and thought also had to
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CS.09.05.17 be given to the other people within areas and vehicles who could be susceptible to the passive fumes of the e-cigarettes.
The proposal was put to the meeting and declared carried with 8 voting FOR and 1 AGAINST.
Alderman Keery wished to be recorded as dissenting.
AGREED that the Policy and Procedures be adopted and implemented.
7. REQUESTS TO LIGHT UP BUILDINGS – POLICY REVIEW (FILE LP37) Appendix VI
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Organisational Development and Administration attaching corresponding list. The report provided the undernoted detail:-
Background Members would recall that, in October 2015, the Council adopted criteria and procedures for processing requests to light up Council Buildings.
Requests for lighting up buildings were currently deemed as eligible if they:- Raise awareness of charities nominated by the Mayor Mark events directly organised by or financially supported by the Council Mark events not directly organised by the Council but which may be held wholly or in part in the Borough and be regarded as of significant benefit to the Borough from a tourism or promotional perspective (e.g. Giro d’Italia). Charitable, community or other non-profit making organisations based in or with a significant connection to the Borough and which are celebrating a significant anniversary or occasion. Recognised sporting teams or organisations with a specific connection to the Borough which have received a significant accolade (e.g. winning a national or international competition).
Further, it was agreed that:- requests to light up buildings on UN recognised days would, in the first instance be brought to the Council for approval and would be marked annually thereafter and reviewed after a ten-year period or until the Council decides to cease such practice; and requests which were not covered by the criteria outlined above, or were considered to be of a political or potentially controversial nature, would require the consideration and approval of the Council.
Current Position The table appended to the report showed the requests to light up buildings which the Council had acceded to and which it plans to mark on an annual basis going forward.
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It was considered appropriate and good practice to review those procedures at this juncture. In general, the lighting up of Council buildings had been positively received by the public. It enhanced our buildings, provided colour and interest in town centres, and raised awareness of important campaigns.
In the intervening period the Council also agreed to light up buildings to mark a range of one-off scenarios, including:
Ards Ladies’ Hockey Club reaching European Indoor Hockey Championships (Orange and Blue) Ards Football Club Cup Finalists in the League (Red and Blue) Northern Ireland Football Team’s participation in the European Championship – June 2016 100 Year Anniversary of the Cub Scouts (Strangford District) – Blue and Yellow Christmas – Red/Green (2015) and Blue (2016 – to match decoration in Conway Square)
Also during this period, requests to light up buildings were received from elected members in response to world events or events which fall outside of those listed in the recommended criteria. Buildings were subsequently lit up in response to terrorist attacks across the world, including the Paris attacks of November 2015, the Orlando nightclub attack in June 2016 and the Westminster attack in March 2017. It was deemed appropriate to react immediately to these events, in support of and solidarity with those who had suffered and to mirror the actions of other public authorities across Northern Ireland, the UK and beyond. However, those decisions were, by virtue of the need to react quickly, taken without Council agreement and prompted a wide range and variety of responses (positive and negative) from both elected members and the general public, illustrating that such events cause different, and sometimes controversial, reactions from different people and interest groups. Also, the Council has come under criticism for lighting up buildings in response to some, but not all, global terrorist attacks. It was often difficult to distinguish between those tragic events and there was also no time to seek council approval on a decision to light a building (or not light a building).
It was therefore considered appropriate to amend the current policy to address this issue as, sadly, world tragedies and terrorist attacks continue to occur. While, it was always possible that any decision would attract criticism from some quarter, it was suggested that, in the interests of consistency and to avoid accusations of bias, political or otherwise, the Council does not light up buildings in response to world events.
RECOMMENDED that:-
The existing criteria and procedures for lighting up buildings, as outlined above, continue to be applied; The Council does not light up buildings in response to world events for the reasons described above.
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Requests to light up buildings to mark national holidays will be processed via the Corporate Services Committee/ Council structure and Equality screened accordingly.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Smart, seconded by Councillor Muir, that the recommendations be adopted.
8. FAIRTRADE STEERING GROUP – UPDATE (FILE SUS4) Appendix VII
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Organisational Development and Administration attaching Minutes of Meeting of Fairtrade Steering Group held on 27 March 2017. The report detailed that key topics of discussion included the events held during Fairtrade fortnight in March 2017 and the Group’s application for Fairtrade Borough status.
On 26 April 2017, the Council was notified by the Fairtrade Foundation in London that it had been successful in achieving Fairtrade Borough Status. That was testament to the efforts and enthusiasm of all the members of the Steering Group.
Further plans to raise awareness of, celebrate and capitalise upon this status were discussed at the meeting of the Steering Group held on 3 May 2017 (Minutes to be circulated in due course). It was agreed that the Fairtrade Borough Status would be announced and publicised at a Fairtrade “Big Lunch” to be held on Monday, 19 June 2017. That could take the form of a picnic in the Walled Garden, weather permitting. Local schools would be invited to participate. (The National “Big Lunch” was on Sunday, 18 June 2017). Plans were currently being developed for this event.
RECOMMENDED that the Minutes be noted and the news of the recent Fairtrade Borough Status accreditation be welcomed.
Councillor Muir thanked Officers for progressing the matter and for the work that had occurred to achieve Borough Status.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Muir, seconded by Alderman Keery, that the recommendation be adopted.
9. DRAFT PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT PLAN (FILE 260501) Appendices VIII, IX
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report from the Director of Finance and Performance attaching Draft Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) and Consultation Reponses to Draft PIP. The report detailed that the Local Government Act (Northern Ireland) 2014 put in place a new framework to support the continuous improvement in the delivery of Council services in the context of strategic objectives and issues that were important to those who receive the services.
Council was required to gather information to assess improvement in its services and to issue an annual report on performance against indicators either set by themselves
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CS.09.05.17 or that have been set by department. Specifically, that required the publication of a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) on an annual basis.
Members should note that the objectives and actions in the Performance Improvement Plan directly relate to the Corporate Objectives as set out in the Council’s Corporate Plan 2015-19, the linkages could be viewed on Page 15 of the PIP.
A draft PIP was developed, based on:
priorities identified in the Corporate Plan, itself based on input from Elected Members, officers and wider consultation; feedback from ratepayers, residents and stakeholders arising from the ‘Big Conversation’ community planning engagement project; feedback from ratepayers, residents and stakeholders arising from consultation on the Performance Improvement Plan 2016/17; output from workshops involving the Corporate Leadership Team (CLT) and Head of Service Team (HoST); a review of draft Service Plans.
The draft plan was the subject of public consultation between 16 February and 20 March 2017 via:
press advertisement; Council website and social media; email to key stakeholders including elected members, equality and community planning groups; local Chambers of Trade. Staff Consultative Committee (SCC)
We asked participants if they agreed, disagreed or were not sure about the 11 priority objectives we were including in the Performance Improvement Plan. We received 15 responses to our public consultation 73.33% from Residents; 13.33% from Local Business and 13.33% from Staff Consultative Committee.
Consultation closed on 20 March 2017 and the Performance Improvement Plan has been updated to reflect feedback received through the process. A report on the responses and feedback can be found on Page 17 of the PIP.
The Council were required by DoE to publish the PIP by 30 June 2017 and the plan would be subject to Audit by the NIAO. The outcome of the Audit would be reported to Council in due course.
RECOMMENDED that the Performance Improvement Plan is approved and published.
Councillor Barry wished to put on record his thanks to the Officers for the work that had been undertaken in preparation of the plan and the detailed report. However, he wished to register his disappointment for the language used within the plan which made reference to ‘customers’. He stated that although he recognised that the Council provided goods and services it was not a business. He also expressed his 11
CS.09.05.17 disappointment with the low number of people that provided input into the process as the consultation had received a low response. Councillor Barry recognised that how the Council engaged with its citizens was an ongoing issue. He felt the residents’ survey was a good idea and asked if any preparatory thoughts had been given to the content of the questionnaire. Councillor Barry referred to appendix 6 of the report and asked why the Rural Community Network had not been included as a consultee.
The Director of Organisational Development and Administration advised that the residents’ survey would led by Corporate Communications Manager. That was in the early stages in the process and a tender would soon be sent out to seek an organisation for the delivery of the residents survey.
The Interim Director of Finance and Performance advised that Officers did consult widely. However, he did not have the answer to the Members question and would report back to the Member directly.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Barry, seconded by Councillor Muir, that the recommendation be adopted.
10. NOTICES OF MOTION
(a) Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Woods and Councillor Barry
Proposed by Councillor Woods, seconded by Councillor Barry that this Council recognises that all individuals have the right to healthcare, which includes that healthcare should be physically accessible and within safe reach for all sections of the population. People should not face fear and intimidation when accessing healthcare services. Therefore, the Council condemns all harassment and intimidation taking place outside facilities in Northern Ireland that offer reproductive healthcare, including attempts to physically block access to facilities, verbal intimidation, and the filming and recording of staff and clients entering and leaving the building.
Councillor Woods spoke her motion advising that it was not a motion against the right to protest, congregation or freedom of speech, nor was it a motion on reproductive healthcare itself. What she asking for support for was a motion about safety, harassment and the curtailment of the rights of people accessing healthcare in Northern Ireland.
Councillor Woods explained what occurred outside clinics and organisations in Belfast City Centre, but noted could apply to any reproductive healthcare facility throughout all the Boroughs which provided services on sexual health and STI’s, relationship counselling, medical advice on contraception and family planning as well as all legal reproductive healthcare and non-directive pregnancy counselling. She advised that people congregated on a daily basis outside facilities, which could be threatening and intimidating to those entering the building, especially staff who had to run the gauntlet of those people every day just to access their place of work. The group were not standing conducting a peaceful protest. The sole purpose of their actions was to prevent women accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare, with no regard to the reasons or motivations of these women for doing so. The protestors
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CS.09.05.17 only targeted women of childbearing age, or those who they deemed to be. It did not matter if they were going into the building for work, to access legally available healthcare, for contraception or other family planning matters, to go to the solicitor’s office or recruitment agency or any of the other services provided in these buildings, they were deemed legitimate targets of those people congregating outside.
Councillor Woods stated that the group have been known to follow women and their families along the street. They had taken photographs of individuals that have entered or exited a building without the person’s permission and threaten them with publishing them on social media or giving them to the Police. On one occasion a woman was so intimidated she ran into oncoming traffic on Great Victoria Street in order to get away from the group of people standing outside the facility. There had been only one successful conviction that had not been overturned for an assault on an employee of a sexual and reproductive healthcare charity but this person was allowed to stand outside and continue their actions. Councillor Woods reported that intimidation had amounted to such a level at one location that there was now a group of individuals who volunteered to offer people the opportunity to have someone escort them into the building if they feel they would need this support. She advised that when she went to meet a staff member at a clinic, she too was assaulted. On approaching the building, she explained that she was assaulted by a woman with a plastic doll who confronted her touching and pushing her arm, asking did she know what her baby looked like and was she going to do something I would regret. On leaving the building, she was met by more people outside the building one with a poster of graphic images which she believed would not be shown before the watershed on television and then followed down the street by a different lady asking her was she at a crisis point in her life and did she need some advice. Only when she informed the lady that was in the building for a meeting did she stop following Councillor Woods down the street and stopped touching her. Regardless of the reasoning for being near that building that day, Councillor Woods stated that she should not have to endure such behaviour and neither should anyone else experience that level of discomfort. She stressed the importance of the Council sending a strong message condemning this type of behaviour.
Protest was not against the law, everyone had a right to it and it was deeply embedded in our recent history as a method for change. Councillor Woods felt protest was a necessary and crucial part of our society, but the actions, images used by those groups and individuals and the words expressed to anyone entering and leaving the building was not acceptable. She stated that protest should not mean intimidation or harassing behaviour and those involved in this case did not have the right to impede access to basic healthcare. The behaviour amounted to harassment and intimidation and a number of people involved had even been charged with assault. The Police were informed every time any harassing behaviour occurred and the staff at one clinic phoned them on a regular basis to report the actions. On occasions the Police arrived at the scene and had conversations with those involved. That was an inadequate method for dealing with this issue for a number of reasons. First of all, Councillor Woods explained that harassment law in NI only covered actions that occurred on two or more occasions. Those entering the building for an appointment or consultation generally would not return so the behaviour does not come under the protection of the current law. Secondly, the Police did not come out to every incident that was reported. The Police Service was underfunded and under
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CS.09.05.17 extreme pressures to deal with other issues. Thirdly, that was a reactive method of dealing with this issue and did not protect women from the present situation as it was. Councillor Woods felt a proactive, preventative method was what was needed.
Councillor Barry wished to reiterate that the discussion was not about pro-choice or pro-life, it was about harassment. He advised that currently those using reproductive healthcare facilities were forced to run a gauntlet past leaflets, past placards, past verbal coercion, past intimidating behaviour and past harassment. Councillor Barry stated that he was not against protest, he wholeheartedly supported people’s right to protest however stated that such protest be non-violent and not involve intimation or putting people in fear. Councillor Barry added his support to the motion and asked that the Council send out a strong signal that while it supported people's rights to democratically and non-violently protest, that the Council condemned any harassment and intimidation of those entering of leaving buildings where reproductive healthcare services were located. Councillor Barry urged Members to support the motion.
Councillor Chambers added his support to the motion. He stated that everyone had a right to access services and described the actions outlined as disgraceful. He questioned what action could be taken and suggested a letter be sent to the PSNI for a tougher stance or a change in the law was required to address the matter.
On summing up, Councillor Woods thanked Councillor Chambers for his comments. She believed that the motion and showing support for it was an important step for those to realise that harassment of anyone using any form of healthcare facilities throughout Northern Ireland would not be tolerated. No matter what the opinions were around certain aspects of sexual and reproductive healthcare service provision within the country, it was of the utmost importance that the rights, which were mostly women’s rights, were protected and upheld no matter what type of healthcare services required. She highlighted that everyone should be free to access advice and services free from harassment and verbal or physical abuse. Safe access zones around any healthcare facility was a future step forward which had been discussed in the House of Commons. Clare Bailey MLA had recently conducted a survey to gain public opinion on the installation of safe access zones within Northern Ireland and would be resubmitting her Private Members’ Bill on this issue once the Assembly was up and running again. Councillor Woods advised that was the next step that the Council should support.
Councillor Woods reinforced that the supporting the motion would show that the Council did not support harassing behaviour outside any healthcare facilities, that included sexual and reproductive healthcare services and supports the rights of people that wish to use or work in healthcare facilities without fear. Therefore, the motion was a rights issue and thus, when rights were being infringed it was an issue for all of us to respond to in the appropriate way. It was also disproportionately effecting one group of society, namely women. Such behaviour would not be tolerated outside GP surgeries and chemists providing healthcare. Councillor Woods asked the Committee to support the motion.
Councillor Muir requested a recorded vote which resulted in 11 voting FOR and 0 AGAINST; the motion was declared carried.
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FOR (11) AGAINST (0) ABSTAINING (2) ABSENT (1) Aldermen Aldermen Councillor Carson Graham Gilmour Gibson Keery McDowell Councillors Barry Brooks Chambers Kennedy Muir McIlveen Smart Smith
(b) Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Woods and Councillor Barry
Proposed by Councillor Woods, seconded by Councillor Barry that this Council is disappointed in the outcome of the Commons vote to amend the Children and Social Work bill in order to offer protection and resettlement to lone child refugees from Europe and writes to the Home Office and the Department for Communities and Local Government urging the government to consider other options to restart the Dubs Scheme.
Councillor Woods spoke to the motion advising that that whilst the issue of the closure of the dubs scheme was discussed in the news and media, a constituent also brought it to her attention, outraged at Amber Rudd’s decision to close the scheme for lone child refugees in February of this year. The constituents felt that their local representatives should take a stand on such matters and voice the opinions in any way that they could. While recognising that the local government in England and Wales operated differently to that here in NI, especially where powers over housing and migration were concerned, Councillor Woods stressed the importance of the Council not only representing the wishes of its constituents, but making a stand on important international issues that affected the United Kingdom and those issues that concerned rights.
Councillor Woods explained that in April 2016 an amendment to the Immigration Act was sponsored by Lord Dubs which required the Government to relocate to the UK a number of lone refugee children who had reached Europe unaccompanied. During the Dubs amendments debates, the number of children to be resettled at the time was 3000. In 2016, 30,000 unaccompanied asylum seeking children arrived in Europe, with the vast majority entering Italy. Around 10% of those arriving in Italy entered the official system meaning the others were effectively missing, making them likely to fall victim to trafficking, forced labour or sexual exploitation. The Dubs amendment was in response to this situation.
Councillor Woods outlined that in February 2017 after accepting only 350 children, the Home Secretary announced that the Dubs scheme would end. On this announcement, the Government faced harsh criticism for this action from a variety of
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CS.09.05.17 organisations and Lord Dubs presented a petition to the Home Secretary with around 50,000 signatures in support of its re-opening in February and a legal challenge was launched to oppose how the government handled their legal commitment within the act. In an attempt to restart the scheme through an amendment to the Children and Social Work bill in March 2017, a Tory-led amendment was defeated by only 20 votes, despite many MPs publically supporting the amendment. The amendment would have required every local authority in England to reveal their capacity for resettling children. A March report by the home affairs committee called on the government to change its mind due to the unclear consultation it had done with authorities in capacity.
Councillor Woods further explained that Home Secretary Rudd suggested that the scheme may encourage people traffickers acting as a pull factor and PM Theresa May stated that it may be an incentive for children to make perilous journeys to get to mainland Europe. These statements and narratives were deeply concerning. The refugee crisis in Europe was continuing and all members would be aware of the atrocities that people were experiencing crossing the Mediterranean in order to seek a better life, fleeing war, famine or disease. Councillor Woods stated that the migration crisis was not over and was continuing, in spite of those schemes closing and refugee camps being cleared. People would make this journey regardless of schemes that relocate lone children, and she felt that everyone had a part to play in order to find a solution. The closure of the scheme acted as a push factor for many into the arms of smugglers and traffickers, and because they were alone and were children, the likelihood of the people entering into forced work, prostitution or slavery increased. The care systems in Europe were overwhelmed and children that do not enter the UK under Dubs schemes or similar were not automatically then taken elsewhere, so many of them get lost in the systems or disappear from public life.
Councillor Woods explained that the UK had a good record in the past of helping to protect refugees and the Dubs scheme provided a safe and legal route for lone children, therefore acting as an alternative for illegal trafficking. The UK was a supporter of preventing human trafficking and modern slavery and passed the Modern Slavery Act in 2015 and also made stands on the rights of children and child protection. In 1961 the UK signed the UN Convention relating to refugees which stated its obligation to allow those into the country who were seeking asylum and who had a legal right to in the UK whilst their application was being considered. It was a signatory of the UN Convention on the rights of the child and had a vital role to play in supporting the charter in offering protection to lone children across Europe. Councillor Woods further explained that there many who say that the UK had done its part and does help refugees. Indeed, other resettlement schemes had reunited children with parents and guardians already living in the UK, and resettled around 4400 out of a commitment of 23,000. However, Councillor Woods believed that the Dubs scheme was something different and it was about recognising the particular need to look after lone children, not those with support networks elsewhere, but those who found themselves in a situation they cannot control and who had little future options.
Councillor Barry advised that in January 2016, the then Immigration Minister, James Brokenshire, said the Government would commit to resettling increasing numbers of refugees, most of whom would be children, mentioning the 3,000 figure. The
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Government committed to taking 3,000 unaccompanied refugee children from Europe, but closed the programme after taking in almost 500. The government said the lower figure met the "intention and spirit" of the Dubs Amendment, but in reality went back on its word. Councillor Barry recalled the debate the Council had on the Syrian refugee crisis and the moving speech made by Councillor Smith in respect of the death of Alan Kurdie the Syrian toddler who tragically drowned in 2015. He believed that it would be hypocritical of the Council to go back on view expressed of solidarity and support for refugees and urging the government to do more in terms of taking in and looking after these vulnerable people. Given that the most vulnerable of the refugees were unaccompanied minors it was absolutely vital that the UK delivered on its commitment to taking in 3000 such children. Councillor Barry urged the Committee to support the motion.
Alderman Graham advised that he had also been contacted by a constituent regarding the same matter. He noted that some people were of the view that Social Services were attached to Council’s in Northern Ireland and could do more. He referred to the voluntary and charitable organisations that cared for orphans and refugees and wondered if resources would be best directed to them. Alderman Graham accepted the spirit of the motion and expressed the view that the issue being described as an administrative error was a feeble excuse.
On summing up, Councillor Woods thanked Alderman Graham for his comments stating that the Council had a duty of care as a country to help others, especially the most vulnerable, and closing the scheme makes trafficking more likely as the legal and safe routes become less and less available. She stated that the migration crisis was a global crisis and the UK had recognised its role in helping to identify root causes as well as dealing with the consequences. By ending the Dubs Scheme, Councillor Woods believed that the UK had now turned its back on its responsibilities. In respect of Alderman Graham’s comments, Councillor Woods purported that it had come to light in recent weeks that local councils, who according to the government, could only take 350 more children under the scheme, could in fact, take more and had made efforts to inform the Home Secretary and other authorities. The Immigration Minister, Robert Goodwill, put this down to an administrative error and that the UK would take 130 more lone children before the scheme finished, taking the total to 480, under one sixth of the original figure that was debated. Councillor Woods further spoke of her belief that there were other options that the government could look at, as well as putting more effort into doing through more comprehensive strategies, rather than simply writing it off.
Councillor Woods felt it was a sad fact that Northern Ireland had taken only one lone child refugee under the scheme and that it was the only region of the UK that had no functioning refugee strategy. The Children's Commissioner in NI had expressed deep concerns about the lack of NI support and written to the Home Secretary alongside the three other commissioners urging the decision to be reviewed. It was a sadder fact that the capacity to do more was there throughout the UK, but the government would not reconsider its decision. Councillor Woods asked for the Council to make the first step in showing that it was against the government decision to end the scheme and was representative of the constituent’s views, while taking a strong stance on children's rights issues. She hoped that would hopefully add to the pressure that already existed on the government to look at all options instead of
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CS.09.05.17 closing one door and not reopening another. To that end, Councillor Woods asked Members to support her motion.
Councillor Muir requested a recorded vote which resulted in 12 voting FOR and 0 AGAINST; the motion was declared carried.
FOR (12) AGAINST (0) ABSTAINING (1) ABSENT (1) Aldermen Alderman Councillor Carson Keery Gilmour Gibson Graham McDowell Councillors Barry Brooks Chambers Kennedy Muir McIlveen Smart Smith
EXCLUSION OF THE PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Barry, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the public/press be excluded during the discussion of the undernoted items of confidential business.
11. UPDATE: REGINA CAELIS, COOK STREET JETTY, PORTAFERRY (FILE CX117)
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
12. LEASE OF PARKS DEPOT, DONAGHADEE (FILE LP76)
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
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13. LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (FILE HR 27)
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
RE-ADMITTANCE OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Keery, seconded by Councillor Smart, that the public/press be readmitted to the meeting.
14. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
As this was Councillor McIlveen’s last meeting as Chairman, Councillor Barry thanked Councillor McIlveen for his chairmanship of the Corporate Services Committee over the term.
The Chairman thanked the Committee for their diligence. He felt the meetings during his term had run smoothly yet had been thorough in its considerations.
NOTED.
TERMINATION OF MEETING
The meeting terminated at 7.40 pm.
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ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL
A meeting of the Community and Wellbeing Committee was held in the Council Chamber, 2 Church Street, Newtownards on Wednesday, 10 May 2017 at 7.00pm.
PRESENT:
In the Chair: Councillor Dunne
Aldermen: Irvine Smith
Councillors: Adair Kennedy Boyle McAlpine Brooks Menagh Chambers Muir Cooper Smart Douglas Thompson Edmund Woods
Officers: Director of Community and Wellbeing (G Bannister), Head of Leisure and Amenities (I O’Neill), Community Development Manager, (D McKinney), Externally Funded Programmes Manager (N Dorrian), Principal Environmental Health Officer (J Parkinson) and Democratic Services Officer (E Brown)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY DIRECTOR
The Director commenced the meeting by notifying members of the sad passing of Dusty Millar earlier that week. He advised that Dusty had been the General Manager of Leisure Ards for almost thirty years.
Councillor Menagh then proposed that a letter of condolence be sent to Dusty’s family.
NOTED.
1. APOLOGIES
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Councillor Martin.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
The Chairman asked for any declarations of interest and Councillor Muir declared an interest in Item 6 – Ards and North Down Sports Forum Grants.
NOTED.
CW 10.05.17 PM
3. DEPUTATION – CONTACT NI
The Chairman welcomed Ms Carrie Montgomery, Deputy CEO Contact NI, to the meeting and invited her to make her deputation.
Ms Montgomery thanked members for the opportunity to speak to them about the NI Suicide Prevention Bill. To provide some initial context she gave a brief synopsis about Contact NI.
Contact NI was a charity specialising in crisis counselling and suicide prevention and which also provided the free-phone regional Lifeline crisis response helpline. Contact pioneered Independent Schools Counselling in Northern Ireland (2006- 2009). It also provided the independent counselling support and advice service to the Northern Ireland Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry, in partnership with Advice NI. During the previous five years, Contact had held an annual International Suicide Prevention conference looking at what worked and showcasing suicide prevention research and best practice. Contact workforce and Board were committed to ensuring that no one should die alone, in despair by suicide, and welcoming the World Health Organisation’s ambitious goal to drive the global suicide rate down 10% by 2020. Contact’s goal was zero suicide for people in its care.
Ms Montgomery then advised that it had been over 50 years since Northern Ireland had last reviewed its legislation on suicide. At that time, the Suicide Act had decriminalized the act of suicide but had not gone any further than that. The purpose therefore of the proposed NI Suicide Prevention Bill would be to protect people from harm. Ms Montgomery highlighted the need for the legislation by advising that in 2015 in Northern Ireland, 318 people had died by suicide, which equated to almost one person per day; 21 of those deaths had been in this Borough.
Ms Montgomery went on to detail how road traffic legislation had been amended and had included educational road safety talks in schools and reinforced via public campaigns, the most recent one being the ‘Share the Road to Zero’ campaign by the Department for Infrastructure. She highlighted some of the legislative changes such as wearing seatbelts, speed limits and alcohol limits. The impact of those changes had led to an 80% reduction in road deaths since 1977. That was in stark contrast to the tripling in numbers of deaths by suicide.
Continuing, Ms Montgomery provided a brief summary of the proposed NI Suicide Prevention Bill which,
1. accepted suicide was a preventable harm (WHO Global Suicide Report 2014) 2. regarded clinical engagement with patient family and friends as an essential protective safety factor for suicide prevention, in every case 3. following patient suicide, best practice lessons learned from critical independent review demonstrated family engagement as an important protective factor against future suicide 4. all references to engage family included family and friends; references to clinician included clinical/team; patient, services user and client were interchangeable terms.
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Ms Montgomery stressed that zero suicide was the only target to aim for. Driving suicide to zero had to commence with health and justice care systems, affirming the conviction that, ‘no one should die alone, in despair, by suicide’. All learning achieved from saving lives in their care had to be urgently applied to community and family settings. The zero suicide concept and disciplined practices had emerged from the ambitious ‘perfect depression care’ quality performance improvement initiative at Henry Ford Health System, Detroit. The results had been remarkable, driving the suicide death rate to zero in just three years. The zero suicide challenge was a bold aspiration commencing with health and justice systems. More than 200 zero suicide pilots were underway across the US whilst Mersey Care NHS Trust led the UK initiative. The NI Assembly All Party Group on Suicide Prevention would champion zero suicide early adoption for NI health and justice systems. As the current provider, Contact proposed the regional Lifeline service as the inaugural NI zero suicide pilot.
Ms Montgomery then ran through the clinical duties of candour, competence and co- operation within the proposed NI Suicide Prevention Bill stating that continuity of care at crisis point had to ensure critical real-time information sharing agreed by memorandum of understanding and investing in robust multi-agency relationships. Perfect crisis care required 100% commitment to a ‘no blame’ culture championed by accessible, visible and competent corporate leadership accountability with immediate learning from honest mistakes celebrated as opportunities to achieve continuous service improvement excellence.
She noted that when instances of patient harm or near-miss involved clinician error, urgent supervisory support would enable timely disclosure to the patient/family of what went wrong at the earliest possible opportunity. The clinical duty of candour required clinician full and frank disclosure of all factors contributing to circumstances leading to the near-miss incident or actual patient harm. The clinical duty of candour would set minimum standards specifying clinician responsibilities including remedial steps towards restitution where possible. Each clinician had a further duty to implement lessons learned with immediate effect in order to identify, avoid, trap or mitigate similar future risk of preventable patient harm.
Ms Montgomery commented that many health professionals did not feel competent working with suicide, however she believed that could be alleviated with the right support and training. In addition, there was some ambiguity around whether patient confidentiality could be breached in situations of crisis care, as that would allow appropriate information sharing. She stressed that perfect crisis care required 100% commitment to a ‘no blame’ culture, where no negligence was involved, so that the opportunities for learning from honest mistakes were not missed.
On a poignant note she concluded that she had personal experience of losing loved ones to suicide and also feeling suicidal herself at one time in her life.
The Chairman thanked Ms Montgomery for her informative presentation and noted that it was a topic all members had a close interest in. He then invited questions from members.
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Councillor Douglas expressed her shock at the statistics shared by Ms Montgomery and she supported the vital drive forward to establish the legislation. She also remarked on the importance of rolling out training and the duty to cooperate. Referring to the duty of candour, she noted that when working with policies and procedures sometimes people could get things wrong and therefore it was important to learn from those mistakes. She applauded the work done to date by Contact.
Councillor Cooper thanked Ms Montgomery for her presentation on a very complex subject and he noted that the Council and the Community and Wellbeing Committee embraced the objectives of the Bill. He commented that unfortunately suicide was an on-going and increasing problem and he was not convinced that the full scale of the problem had been recorded in the 1970’s. He hoped the problem could be minimised and the increase arrested. He stated it was frightening to think that 50 years had passed since the legislation had been reviewed and he highlighted that since the Belfast Agreement many people had died by suicide. He queried what would happen in the event that Stormont was not reinstated. He also asked whether a public consultation had been undertaken.
In response, Ms Montgomery advised that a public consultation had not been done as Contact’s primary goal currently was to mobilise and educate, and then push for the legislation which would result in a transformation in crisis care. She added that they also wished to garner feedback in order to obtain a Bill that was workable for all constituencies.
Councillor Cooper urged that the education element be similar to that of the traffic safety education. He asked that if Stormont was not reinstated that consideration be given to developing a Suicide Prevention Charter that all Councils could adopt.
Ms Montgomery advised that internal talks had been held in respect of developing a Charter and as such she welcomed Councillor Cooper’s suggestion and support.
Councillor McAlpine referred to research undertaken by Siobhan O'Neill, Professor of Mental Health Sciences at Ulster University. The research had established the first direct link between suicidal behaviour in Northern Ireland and having experienced traumatic and conflict-related events; Northern Ireland had the highest level of PTSD in the UK. Councillor McAlpine continued that PTSD also worked its way out in children of parents with PTSD who due to having PTSD had struggled to parent their children. There was strong evidence that the legacy of the troubles had led to severe and long-lasting mental disorders. She concurred with Councillor Cooper and his suggestion of a Charter and she stressed that if nothing was done then the problem would continue indefinitely and many young people would not make it to adulthood.
Alderman Irvine expressed shock at the figures disclosed by Ms Montgomery however he added he was not surprised that the level of suicide was high. He shared that he had been touched by the tragedy of suicide in his own family earlier that year. He sought further information on those most at risk of death by suicide.
In response, Ms Montgomery advised that currently those most at risk were males aged between 35 and 55. Previously it had been young people that were most at
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CW 10.05.17 PM risk however currently the older a young person became, the more at risk they became either because of what they had done, what had been done to them or what they had witnessed during the 1970’s and 1980’s.
Alderman Irvine asked about the support packages that were available and the follow up process for the patient and Ms Montgomery advised that it varied area by area.
Ms Montgomery also advised that the prison population was also part of the at risk population which was not helped by the readily available drugs and alcohol in prisons. That was a big concern which was currently being looked into as some of the prison population were not in the right place and rather needed to be placed in another type of secure unit.
Councillor Smart enquired about legislation in other countries and whether there was any legislation at Westminster.
Ms Montgomery responded that there were currently no proposals at Westminster and as such Northern Ireland would be leading the way in the matter. She advised that different aspects of the legislation were out in various places in the USA and early indicators had shown positive results. In addition, some Nordic countries had made significant changes to their policies including pouring a lot of resources into tackling the issue of suicide. Furthermore, Japan had applied legislation over the previous few years and had seen positive results to date. She concluded that there were over 200 Zero Suicide successful pilots being run globally.
The Chairman thanked Ms Montgomery for making a deputation to the Committee and she withdrew from the meeting at this stage.
NOTED.
4. COMMONWEALTH GAMES FUNDING – FILE CW94 (Appendix I)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 26 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that the 21st Commonwealth Games were due to take place on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia in April 2018 when over 6500 athletes and officials from some 70 countries of the Commonwealth would come together to compete in the biggest athletics event outside of the Olympic games.
Both legacy Councils had previously helped to prepare and send athletes to the Commonwealth games by providing direct funding amounting to £4,200 in 2014 that had in the past helped Northern Ireland achieve a number of outstanding performances at the games.
The games would run from 4 to 15 April 2018 and whilst the cost of sending the team to the previous games had been somewhere in the region of £175,000 it was anticipated that given its location the cost of sending the athletes and officials was likely to be in the region of £400,000. That sum included a comprehensive package of athlete preparation, team clothing, accommodation, medical equipment and insurance as well as all travel costs. Sport NI had indicated that it would fund
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£170,000 of the total required and seek sponsorship and donations for the additional £230,000 that would be required.
In Glasgow 2014 Northern Ireland athletes had won an outstanding number of twelve medals which had placed Northern Ireland 15th on the medal table. There had been 23 members of the team from the Ards and North Down Borough Council area, which had represented 14% of the overall team.
It was proposed to provide a contribution of £6,000 towards the preparation and attendance of the team at the Gold Coast Games. If approved that would establish Ards and North Down Borough Council as a key partner for the team with benefits to the Council that may include, an advert in the team handbook, use of the NICGC logo within Council facilities, representation from NICGC at a number of agreed Council events and most significantly a potential prominent role for the area in the Queens Baton Relay when it came to the Ards and North Down area over the August bank holiday weekend. If approved the funding would be taken from the central budget.
RECOMMENDED that the Council approves to provide a contribution of £6,000 to Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Committee from the current year’s budgets.
Councillor Edmund commented that it was great to see the Council supporting local young athletes as they went forward in that venture.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Boyle, seconded by Councillor Edmund, that the recommendation be adopted.
5. COUNCIL PLAY AND PLAYPARK SERVICES – FILE CW4 (Appendix II)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 14 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that under the aforementioned legislation, the Council provided 64 play equipment playparks for younger children in the Borough and a small number of Multiuse Games areas (MUGAs) for older children. The provision of those facilities recognised the importance of play in helping to address certain social, physical, intellectual, creative, cultural and emotional needs of the Borough’s youngest citizens. Service provision was the responsibility of the Community and Wellbeing directorate, and ongoing maintenance, upgrade, and the future and current specification of playparks was the responsibility of the Environment directorate in consultation with Community and Wellbeing.
The following report explained current and future service delivery arrangements.
1. Maintenance of existing facilities
The Assets and Property Services Section of the Environment Directorate had a well-established proactive system in place which ensured a high standard of support to Community and Wellbeing in the maintenance of existing facilities, reinforcing equity in service delivery, as follows:
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Inspection and Maintenance
Each playground was subjected to a rigorous inspection and maintenance regime in order to meet stringent standards of good practice laid out within BS 1176.
The regime consisted of:
Weekly Inspection (Routine) - Carried out by the Council’s in-house team. The main purpose of those inspections was to ensure the play area was safe to use. Evidence of anti-social behaviour was monitored and repairs were made as necessary. Quarterly Inspections (Operational) - Carried out by one of the Council’s Technical Officers. The purpose of that inspection was to carry out a more detailed inspection with a “fresh pair of eyes”. Early signs of deterioration were noted and individual items of equipment may be highlighted for replacement. Annual Inspection - Carried out by an external contractor. That was a thorough inspection that independently risk assessed and quality scored (based on functionality as opposed to play value or design) every item within each play area.
Scoring
Several key elements were scored independently in order to prioritise works in the most appropriate way. They were:
Scored Element Source Weighting Notes Equipment Annual Inspection 40% Each item of equipment was Condition by external assessed for condition and contractor then the mean score tabulated. It updated after each did not take into account the quarterly visit by perceived play value of the an appropriately equipment, only its condition trained Council Technical Officer Surfacing Quarterly 20% The integrity of safety Condition Inspection by an surfacing around each piece appropriately of equipment was assessed trained Council and the mean score was Technical Officer tabulated Ancillary Items Annual Inspection 10% Bins, signage and by external bench(etc.) were essential contractor. items for all the Council’s playgrounds. Those along with fences, gates etc. were quality scored and the mean value was tabulated. Experiential Quarterly 30% Each playground was Evaluation Inspection by an assessed against criteria appropriately adopted from the Play
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trained Council England Play Space Quality Technical Officer Assessment Tool (2009) for evaluating the play experience. Those included: perceived usage, safety/security, accessibility, quality of design etc. (for all criteria see appendix). That criteria had proven essential to more accurately evaluate the play experience provided by older play areas that while may be in reasonable condition were not being used. On assessment, the criteria suggested that the reasons included “softer” issues like layout, lighting, lack of social areas and lack of challenge to the relevant user group. That highlighted the need for a design approach that identified these broader issues.
Tiers
The playgrounds were categorised into three tiers, depending on their location/purpose. Those categories were adopted from the Play England Strategy.
Tier 1 - Destination Play Areas were defined as “A larger recreational space or facility within key tourist/commerce destinations. Children and families would travel to access.” The quality score of those playgrounds was multiplied by 0.8 in order to strive for a higher quality of play provision at those locations. Budget: £120k to £150K.
Tier 2 - Local Facilities, defined as “A larger space available at town centres/local community hubs and transit routes where children can travel within their local area to access.” The quality score of those playgrounds was multiplied by 0.9 in order to strive for a slightly higher quality of play provision at those locations. Budget: £75k to £100k.
Tier 3 - Doorstep facilities, defined as “A small space within sight of homes (housing estates or rural areas) where children (especially young children) can play within view of known adults.” Budget: circa £50k.
For the time being, Officers had estimated which tier each playground fell into (using legacy Councils equivalent systems as a guide) however it was envisaged that the needs of each area would be further analysed within the coming Playground Strategy.
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The main premise of that weighted approach was to ensure that busier “Hub” play areas were scored more harshly in order to maintain a higher “acceptable” quality score.
Ranking and Prioritisation of Works
Once the overall quality score was obtained (from the information above) Officers started with the lowest scoring playground and determined how best to improve its score. That would usually mean one of the following options:
1. Carry out localized repairs to defective equipment 2. Replace or refurbish individual items of equipment (usually applicable when a piece of equipment scored 6/10 or less) 3. Completely replace all equipment within the play area* (usually applicable when scoring generally was poor or when the overall score was 60% or less) *A full replacement of the equipment would require a capital expenditure and therefore a sum had to be set aside for those works each year.
Similar to the system in place for the rest of the estate, that objective way of allocating work ensured that the areas most in need of refurbishment were prioritized. Once the works to the poorest scoring play area were complete Officers moved up the list until the budget was exhausted.
It was noted that the system was still evolving and would need to be revised as improvements became apparent. It was also noted that playgrounds represented a significant requirement on resources (both financial and staffing).
Significant investment would need to be made in future years in order to maintain the current high standard of play across the Borough. Generally speaking, playgrounds lasted 7-10 years before they were in need of refurbishment. With 64 playgrounds across the Borough and assuming an eight-year life span, eight playgrounds should be refurbished every year in order to avoid a backlog in future years. With costs ranging from £50k to £130k per playground, this represented a significant financial liability of up to £1M per year, not to mention the ongoing maintenance and operating costs associated with those playgrounds. It was hoped to address that shortcoming once the Play Strategy was adopted and for clear guidance for adjusting the playground provision to meet identified needs.
2. Playpark Provision
The Service level that was determined through the Community and Wellbeing Directorate was guided by playpark provision strategy which gave consideration to needs across the Borough as a whole and helped ensure an equitable and appropriate service in each town and village.
Currently the Council continued to be guided by the two legacy strategies and had taken cognisance of decisions made by both Ards Borough Council and North Down Borough Council in relation to those.
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For example, new playparks had been proposed in those strategies for the Scrabo Estate and Ballycrochan. Both those projects were at the community consultation stage. An initial meeting had been held with the Scrabo resident’s association, which fully supported the scheme and wider community consultation would be held over the summer months. A design and build contract for the Scrabo Play Park (Tier 2) had been budgeted for in the 2017/2018 financial year. Community consultation for the Ballycrochan Play Park (Tier 2) would commence in the Autumn and the scheme had been budgeted for in the 2018/2019 financial year.
3. Future Provision and Strategy
In 2016 the Council had agreed to commission the development of a new strategy which would build on all of the above and take a fully comprehensive look at playpark provision for the medium term throughout the Borough, taking into account any new and emerging issues arising both locally and regionally in relation to play and play facilities.
A number of local issues raised through notices of motion and by other means that were not included in the current strategies and therefore were currently unguided in terms of Council policy included the following.
a) Provision of skateboard and other wheeled park facilities. In 2016 as a result of a notice of motion, the Council had agreed to ask Officers to prepare a report on the feasibility of the Council in the future providing dedicated facilities for skateboarding across the Borough. A number of representations had been made on that subject and other consultation through the village planning process had suggested where those facilities may be located as determined by communities’ wishes. In order to take a strategic and Borough wide approach to skateboard park provision and allow resources to be targeted most effectively, it was intended that this would be an integral part of the assessment for the new strategy moving forward.
In the interim, the Peace IV programme had been approved subject to a letter of offer being received and included provision for a number of skateboard or other similar wheeled parks. SEUPB had therefore approved not only the feasibility of those proposals based on village plans, but the necessary finance through the programme funding. In addition, those projects represented an opportunity to establish wheeled parks in areas where they would contribute to addressing objectives of the Peace IV initiative. Secondly, and specifically in relation to both large towns, a wheeled park would be incorporated into the replacement Leisure Centre in Newtownards, and consideration could be given to a similarly scaled facility as part of the Ward Park redevelopment, consultation for which was currently underway.
b) Multiuse Games Areas (MUGAs) That type of playground was designed for older children, wherein they could enjoy sport based play activity such as football, netball, basketball etc. They were not a new concept, but could also be provided with a synthetic 3G surface, although that curtailed basketball, etc. and was more expensive to maintain.
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In recent years the Council had provided two of those free to use facilities at Portavogie and Clandeboye. In 2016, as a result of a notice of motion, Officers had been asked to investigate and report on opportunities to use rural development funding to deliver additional MUGAs (and other playgrounds) in eligible areas in the Borough. That notice of motion had included consideration to be given to converting apparently underutilised tennis courts in the Borough. That notice of motion had not been actioned at that stage for a number of reasons.
Firstly, the play strategies currently in force had not recommended any new facilities in areas where the rural development fund would apply, i.e. non- urban locations and so provision of such facilities would be out with current playpark strategies.
Secondly, given the emphasis on utilising current tennis courts, the Council had to take cognisance of the tennis strategy that was currently being drafted by the four tennis clubs and Ulster tennis in regard to tennis provision within the Borough. That was an initiative that developed within the tennis club fraternity and was giving consideration to facility development priorities, targeted investment, collaboration between clubs and tennis sport development. The majority of the tennis facilities used by the clubs were Council owned, therefore to earmark any Council tennis facility for a playpark or MUGA in advance of firming up such plans could be seen as presumptive.
Finally, and as stated at a number of committee meetings, the Councils new playpark strategy had not yet been developed. That would identify current and future needs for the Borough as a whole and thereafter funding could be sought and applied giving due recognition to the Borough-wide need in an equitable and objective manner.
In the interim, similar to wheeled park provision, the Peace IV programme had identified through the village plans, combined with an analysis of Peace IV objectives as they might apply in particular settlements in the Borough, locations which would allow some provision for MUGAs and other youth diversion facilities to be made. Therefore, whilst the overarching play and playpark strategy was being developed, the Council had the opportunity to make provision in areas in which need had been identified in that way, targeting the limited resources available through Peace IV where it would have most impact. That included both rural and urban settlements and would be completed by 2020.
c) Fencing and other playpark infrastructure
Since developing the two legacy playpark strategies, a number of other aspects of play service provision had come to the fore. Two of those aspects i.e. Wheeled parks and MUGA provision were discussed above. Other aspects included the following.
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a) Provision of fencing A number of playparks were enclosed with 2.3-metre-high security fencing and included lockable gates that used to secure the facility nightly by a Council contractor when not in use. Such parks may otherwise be subject to misuse after hours causing local disturbance and/or damage to the equipment. Other parks were provided with a lower waist level fencing which helped prevent young children from straying too far from the area and stopped dogs getting in. Other parks had no fencing.
b) Provision of seats and bins within or adjacent to play parks The provision of seats, bins and other ancillary facilities would need consideration.
c) Inclusivity As referenced in an earlier part of this report, when existing play parks were being refurbished, provision for less abled bodied children was given full consideration. Occasionally, requests were received for converting or adding suitable inclusive equipment to existing parks which were not subject to a forthcoming refurbishment programme. There was currently no policy in place to address that important need.
d) Play as a Service Traditionally play services had been seen as those provided through playparks and therefore legacy strategies had concentrated on facilities, their location, scale and equipment. However, with the development of the former OFMDFMs policy statement which had placed play at the centre of children’s rights by linking it to the UN Convention on the rights of the child, opinion formers expected play services to help improve quality of life and safety in neighbourhoods, tackle obesity, promote children’s health and wellbeing, support children’s development and build community cohesion. Therefore, it was important that a play strategy went beyond playparks and sought to guide the Council on how to address wider social issues through provision of play as a Service.
Future Strategy Development
Play Services and Playpark provision remained a critical and core service provided by the Council and so had to be carefully planned and delivered to ensure that it was delivered equitably, appropriate to all needs and local situations and demography across the Borough as a whole, to allow the limited resources to be turned into proportionate and sustainable investments in that area of service delivery. Thus a fully developed and comprehensive strategy including of the above issues and as already agreed to, was required.
Officers were however cognisant of the time being taken to develop that new strategy. That had been delayed for a number of reasons mainly centred around Officers attention being diverted to other priorities up to that time such as the discussions around Leisure Services being considered as part of the NCLT contract and the resultant time taken to establish staff structures within Community and Wellbeing (Leisure and Amenities in particular). Now that embedding staff structures
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In the interim, the delivery of new play facilities as identified by the legacy strategies and the Peace IV objectives, and the ongoing proactive and targeted refurbishment scheme for existing facilities would ensure that provision and investment was made at an appropriate level in appropriate locations.
RECOMMENDED that the report be noted.
Referring to Skipperstone playpark, Alderman Irvine asked if consideration had been given to the local population as he reported that the local residents wished to see more safety equipment installed given that there was a stream nearby and the fence preventing access did not extend sufficiently and that left an element of risk. He asked that the matter be kept on review.
Welcoming the report, Councillor Menagh highlighted that Scrabo was an established area and yet it was not mentioned in the list. He was surprised at that and had expected it to be considered given that people were crying out for a play area there as it was an ideal location for one.
The Head of Leisure and Amenities drew the member’s attention to Page 5 of the report which detailed the current status of the proposals for Scrabo. He noted that the consultation exercise had been carried out and that a commitment had been made to the two new playgrounds at Scrabo and Ballycrochan. It was his understanding that following an initial meeting with the residents of Scrabo progress was on-going.
Councillor Adair expressed his disappointment at the length of time it had taken for this report to be produced, given that he had raised the matter 16 months previously. He was glad to see Castle Park and Portaferry being mentioned, however he noted that much of the content of the report had come from legacy Councils. He had hoped to see schemes for rural areas but was not amused at what appeared to be a thrown together report. He was also not impressed at the number of inaccuracies in the report which he went on to identify. Furthermore, MUGAs had only been slightly touched on and there was no mention of a strategy for disabled facilities; he wanted to see access to all. He noted that play parks in rural areas could have availed of funding but since there had been no report ready the opportunity had been missed.
In response, the Head of Leisure and Amenities remarked on the member’s criticism. With respect to disabled users he expressed his understanding was that there was good provision for disabled children. He agreed that it would have been preferable to have a playground strategy ready however he pointed out that if it had been done previously by combining the two legacy strategies, then facilities such as MUGAs and skate parks would not have been included; it would just have included play parks. He noted that the report was an update on current assets in the Borough and
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CW 10.05.17 PM he highlighted the positive aspects detailed in the report. He stressed that the Estates Department had a limited budget and did its best with the funds available.
Councillor Adair was encouraged in respect of the disabled provision, however he reiterated that the fund had opened that day and the opportunity to avail of it had been lost as the report had not been ready. He believed it would be prudent to use available funding rather than ratepayers’ money for those upgrading works.
The Head of Leisure and Amenities explained that money would be sourced to refurbish playgrounds.
Referring to Page 5 part 3a) of the report Councillor Chambers sought clarity on whether a further report would be brought on skate park provision or whether the matter would be contained within the future provision strategy. He was also glad to see that The Cottown was scheduled for refurbishment.
The Director advised that skate park provision formed part of the wider play park provision and therefore would be an integral part of the new strategy scope.
Councillor Chambers expressed the view that Ward Park may not be the right location for a skate park and the Director clarified that at that stage it had just been included as a possibility along with other locations.
(Councillor Menagh left the meeting at this stage – 7.45pm)
Councillor Douglas was pleased with the update report and she stated that visitors from outside the Borough had been positive about the playparks they had used. She welcomed the progress to date and in particular the proposed upgrades.
(Councillor Menagh returned to the meeting at this stage – 7.46pm)
Councillor Muir remarked on the currently difficult economic times and noted that the matter had to be looked at in a strategic manner and cognisance should be given to the fact that funds were not endless. He agreed that Ward Park was not an ideal location for a skate park and he also remarked on the lengthy list of play parks in the Borough. He understood that not all works could be done straight away, rather it had to be tackled in a strategic manner.
Rising in support, Councillor Brooks welcomed the refurbishment of the play park at The Cottown. He asked about the timescale for the works at Hunts Park, Donaghadee.
In response, the Head of Leisure and Amenities advised that park had been scheduled for closure during the time of legacy Ards Council and at that time the Council had decided not to close it. However, the decision would have to be re- examined to establish whether the park was serving its purpose. He cautioned that difficult decisions would have to be made particularly given that six parks had been identified for closure during the time of the legacy Councils and that former decision would have to be reviewed.
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Councillor Smart thanked officers for the equitable way the report had been put together. He then referred to the surface of the Glen Estate park which had become run down and loosened. He believed there was some value in refurbishing that surface.
In response, the Head of Leisure and Amenities confirmed that repairs were done as and when required.
Referring to the future strategy development, Councillor Thompson noted that progress had been delayed due to officers being diverted to other priorities. He was keen to see the Outdoor Recreation Development Officer appointed to move matters forward in developing a strategy for the Borough and the Head of Leisure and Amenities confirmed that was one of the purposes of the post.
The Chairman commented that play parks were valuable assets to residents in rural and residential areas and any funding streams that were available should be explored.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Irvine, seconded by Councillor Menagh, that the recommendation be adopted.
(Councillor Muir declared an interest and left the meeting at this stage – 7.56pm)
6. ARDS AND NORTH DOWN SPORTS FORUM GRANTS – FILE SD93 (Appendix III)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 26 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that on the 26 August 2015 the Council had delegated authority to the Ards and North Down Sports Forum Borough, in order to allow it to administer sports grants funding on behalf of the Council. £25,000 had been allocated within the 2016/2017 revenue budget for that purpose.
The Council had further authorised the Forum under delegated powers to award grants of up to £250. Grants above £250 still required Council approval. In addition, the Council had requested that regular updates were reported to members.
During March 2017, the Forum had received a total of 17 grant applications; 10 of which had been for travel and accommodation, 4 of which had been for events, 1 of which had been for equipment and 2 had been for coaching. There had been no gold card, seeding or anniversary grants applications.
A summary of the applications were detailed in the appendix.
A total of two of the applications had failed to meet the specified criteria. The reasons for the unsuccessful applications were detailed on the attached appendix.
For information, the annual budget and spend to date on grant categories was as follows:
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March 2017 Annual Awarded Opening Proposed Proposed Budget To Date Budget Funding Remaining for March Budget 2017 Travel and 14,000.00 £10,028.98 £3,971.02 £900.00 £3,071.02 Accommodation Coaching 3,000.00 £2,146.88 £853.12 £562.50 £290.62 Equipment 3,000.00 £3,653.20 -£653.20 £384.18 -£1,037.38 Events 3,000.00 £3,062.16 -£62.16 £1,022.00 -£1,084.16 Seeding 1,000.00 £0 £1,000 £0 £1,000 Anniversary 1,000.00 £0 £1,000 £0 £1,000 Gold Cards Issued during the period March is 0.
The proposed remaining budget for Travel and Accommodation of £3071.02 included a proposed deduction of £900 in that period as listed in the appendix. The proposed remaining budget for Coaching of £290.62 included a proposed deduction of £562.50 in that period as listed on the attached appendix. The proposed remaining budget for Events of -£1,084.16 included reclaimed event costs of £62 as listed in the attached appendix.
RECOMMENDED that the Council approves the attached applications for financial assistance for sporting purposes (valued at above £250) and that applications approved by the forum (valued at below £250) be noted.
Councillor Smart noted that Ards Swimming Club had been recommended for funding and he queried how Bangor Swimming Club was funded given that it was not included in the report.
In response, the Head of Leisure and Amenities expressed his understanding that Bangor Swimming Club had not applied for funding.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Menagh, seconded by Councillor Chambers, that the recommendation be adopted.
(Councillor Muir returned to the meeting at this stage – 7.58pm)
7. QUEENS HALL UPDATE – FILE PCU21
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 25 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that discussions were ongoing with Libraries NI (LNI) over the potential redevelopment of Queens Hall. Following the needs analysis information submitted to the Council in March 2016, approval had been granted to further progress the Queens Hall redevelopment project (incorporating the Newtownards Library).
Following that Libraries NI (LNI) had agreed to provide internal resources to develop concept designs to inform Economic Appraisals for funding from Council and LNI via the Department for Communities.
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Due to a change in personnel in LNI, production of that concept design had been delayed however the initial design had now been received and reviewed at the beginning of April 2017.
It was noted that those draft concept designs appeared to be broadly in line with Council needs however they had to be further refined.
That process was now underway and should be completed by the end of May 2017. That exercise would inform the parameters that the Economic Appraisal (EA) would examine. When the EA was completed, the design would then be further developed by a consultancy team post acceptance. Once concept designs were further reviewed they would be provided for consideration.
Additionally, a number of management principles had been agreed, for example, that where possible customer and user experience should be simplified as much as possible through single point of contacts at the site for Council activities such as performances, bookings, Arts and Culture, and Library services, and shared public spaces which may include cafeteria related services.
In parallel to the concept design activities, a legal review of the title and cost models was being carried out which would inform options in the capital apportionment and EA. Again, that work was to take place during the month of May in order to appropriately inform the EA. It was planned that the EA would be completed by the end of the summer.
Following that, project timescales would be developed and budgetary considerations, including apportionment, confirmed, after which it was envisaged that subject to approval and funding confirmation from the parent department, a procurement exercise would commence for design and management of the project in the Autumn.
RECOMMENDED that the report be noted.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Menagh, seconded by Councillor Edmund, that the recommendation be adopted.
(Alderman Smith declared an interest in the following item and remained in the meeting – 7.58pm)
8. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUND 2017-2018 – FILE CDV01 (Appendix IV)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 27 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that the Community Development (CD) Fund was jointly supported by the Department for Communities (DfC) Voluntary and Community Division and the Council.
A total budget of £107,036.29 had been ring fenced for all Community Development Grants, to include: Community Development grants £77,036.29 and funding support of £30,000 for Community Networks and for seeding grants. Depending on the
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The Council had publically invited applications for the 2017-18 Community Development Fund on 2 March 2017 with a closing date of Thursday 6 April 2017 and workshops had been facilitated by officers to support and advise potential applicants.
The purpose of the CD Fund was to support local groups by providing
Up to £2,000 for Running costs for local community groups/community bases, (e.g. stationery, printing, insurance, etc.) Up to £1,000 Project costs for a defined piece of work, training or a project which was time bound.
Applicants could apply for both running costs and project funding.
The objectives of the CD Fund were to strengthen local communities; to increase community participation; to promote social inclusion through the stimulation and support of community groups; and to encourage and promote community activity The expected outcomes for the CD Fund were:
(i) an active and organised community (ii) an influential community (iii) an informed community (iv) a sustainable community
In total 56 applications had been received by the closing date, totalling £128,658.19. An assessment panel comprised of the Community Development Manager, Community Development Officer, Assistant PSCP Officer, and Rural Development Finance Officer, had assessed and scored the applications under the following criteria:
Grant Criteria – Running Costs Points Purpose and Aim 4 Benefit to the community – 4 Sustainable Communities 4 Value for money 4 Total 16
Grant Criteria – Project Costs Points Purpose and Aim 7 Location, Need and benefit 7 Outcomes, impacts & benefits 7 Tackling poverty & social inclusion 7 Encourage and Promote health & wellbeing 7 Equality Scoring Criteria 7 Value for money 7 Total 28
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A 20% weighting had been applied to:
i) applicants located in the top 10% of the most deprived wards in the Council area, (using the DfC Recommended Weighting) and ii) those that specifically targeted socially excluded groups.
The assessment panel considering the scoring matrix had agreed that, as a minimum, applicants should score 2 (acceptable information) in most of grant criteria areas and 1 (limited/poor details) in one of the criteria, which would give a pass mark of 7/16 for Running Cost Grants which represented a pass mark of 43.8%. For Project Cost Grants, it had been agreed as a minimum, applicants should score 2 (acceptable information) against most of grant criteria areas and 1 (limited/poor details) in two of the criteria area. As such, the pass mark of 13/28 for Project Grants which represented a pass mark of 46.4%.
There had been a broad spectrum of applications received, some of which had been very detailed and strong in meeting the grant criteria and others had been less so.
On the completion of the assessment process, which had included a value for money review the assessment panel’s recommendations were detailed in the attached appendix.
In summary:
44 applications had been approved 3 applications had been deemed ineligible for running costs and 4 had been deemed ineligible for project costs 10 applications for running costs had not been approved as they had not reached the pass mark of 43.8% 13 applications for project costs had not been approved as they had not reached the pass mark of 46.4%.
As in previous years the funding programme had been oversubscribed. It was recommended that 95% of the approved grant be awarded to all successful applicants, with a total value of £76,709.
Due to the current political situation in the NI Assembly, the Council had received a Letter of Offer (LoO) from DfC for 25% of annual funding award. It was expected that the DfC funding allocation would reflect 2016/17 allocation of £42,036. That would provide an overall CD budget of £77,036.
At the time of writing the Council had received a Letter of Offer (LoO) from DfC Voluntary and Community Division for 25% of an annual funding award. Therefore, subject to Council approval it was recommended that CD Letters of Offer be issued to successful applicants on an interim basis for 50% of the total funding awarded, and that the further 50% would be awarded subject to the Council receiving, accepting and processing the LoO from DfC.
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It was noted that advance payments (of up to 80%) would be available to successful applicants and the amount would be calculated on the interim 50% funding award until the DfC LoO was received.
RECOMMENDED that the Council approves the attached Community Development Fund recommendations, detailed in the appendix. Furthermore, that interim Letters of Offer be issued to all successful applicants for 50% of the funding awarded and finally applicants be advised that the remaining balance of grant was subject to confirmation of funding from the Department.
Alderman Smith commented that community groups were the backbone of the community. She then expressed her dissatisfaction about the small size of the text in the appendix and the subsequent difficulty she and other members had had trying to read it prior to the meeting. She then enquired about the make-up of the assessment panel.
The Community Development Manager detailed that the panel had been made up of herself, a Community Development Officer, a Rural Development Finance Officer and an Assistant PCSP Officer.
Alderman Smith then referred to the ten applications for running costs and thirteen applications for project costs that had not been approved and sought clarity on how that decision had been reached.
In response, the Community Development Manager advised that even though the application process had been simplified, groups were still not meeting the criteria in their applications.
The Alderman then sought clarity about the CD Letters of Offer being issued on an interim basis for 50% of the total funding awarded.
The response from the Community Development Manager confirmed that, due to the current situation with Stormont, the Council had not received the full budget allowance and had only received Letters of Offer from the Department for Communities covering three months. Therefore, the Council was only in a position to award 50% of the approved allocation until further Letters of Offer or a decision from the Minister was received.
In response to further questions from Alderman Smith, the Community Development Manager advised that some of the unsuccessful applications had come from deprived areas including Kilcooley, Whitehill, Millisle groups and the Polish Association. Approximately £1,000 funding had not yet been used, however if an appeals process ensued it could end up being allocated, subject to approval of this report.
Alderman Smith did not support the recommendation as it was a harsh decision in her view. She noted that groups were struggling and that the recommendation would not help matters.
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Alderman Irvine expressed concern that Whitehill Community Association had not been eligible for funding to cover its core running costs and he stressed that without that funding the group could not be run. He sought clarification on the rationale behind the decision not to award funding in that case.
The Community Development Manager clarified that most of the unsuccessful applications had been due to limited detail provided by the applicant. She continued that the assessment panel had tried to be as fair and equitable as possible during the assessment process. Furthermore, officers had been available to provide advice, guidance and support to applicants. Not only that, the scoring had been reduced from 20 to 16 to make the process as amenable as possible for groups to reach the threshold.
Whilst appreciative of those comments, Alderman Irvine stated that members had been advised by some groups that they had provided more information. He stressed the importance of transparency in the process and he noted the difficulty for members in making a decision without knowing the background of the applications. As such, he could not support the recommendation as it stood and he proposed, seconded by Councillor Adair, that the Chair and Vice Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee be on the assessment panel for the appeals process.
Councillor Muir shared some of the concerns raised by members. He also highlighted that this was the second time that detailed information, that was difficult to view, had been uploaded to Minute Pad prior to the meeting and then an A3 sheet had been provided on the night of the meeting. As such he requested that the information either be presented in a different manner or that A3 paper copies be posted out to members prior to the meeting to enable a more structured discussion.
The Director confirmed that could be done.
Councillor Edmund expressed concern that if the recommendation was not adopted then none of the groups would receive funding, and he could not support that.
Councillor Boyle conveyed that he was not comfortable with the Chair and Vice Chair being involved in the appeals process and he sought clarity that their role would be purely to observe the process. He could not support them having an input role as he believed that would not be prudent and he cautioned that an independent appeals panel should be the only way forward.
In response to a query from the Chairman about legacy arrangements, the Director advised that on a previous occasion with the current Council, he was aware of a formal appeals panel re-scoring applications and the Chair of the relevant Committee and the Mayor had been involved in that in a decision-making capacity.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
At this stage in the meeting, Alderman Irvine and Councillor Adair withdrew their proposal so that the recommendation in the report could be dealt with first.
NOTED.
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Councillor Douglas reiterated previous comments about the unsatisfactory presentation of information in the appendix to the report. She then referred to the discussions at previous Committee meetings about community groups not being approved for available funding and she queried what else could be done to alleviate that recurring problem.
The response from the Community Development Manager confirmed that part of the appeals process was to provide feedback to applicants on where their original application had fallen down and to give pointers for later applications. The Council was keen to build community capacity and as such consideration was being given to rolling out a community development training programme to include network staff and Council staff training together so that both received the same information and at the same time.
Welcoming that development, Councillor Douglas asked whether feedback would be given to applicants even if they did not go through the appeals process and she was advised that they would. She then asked about applications that had gone through the appeals process and the number that had been upheld and she was advised that the previous year no appeals had been successful.
Councillor Smart appreciated the current situation in central government, however he queried whether some flexibility could be extended to community groups when events had to be moved from the beginning to the end of the year, for example. He also queried whether a report would be brought to the Council on the role of elected members in the appeals process and whether they would be implicated as decision makers.
The Director confirmed that a report would have to be done expediently if it was to be in time for that month’s Council meeting.
At this stage in the meeting, Councillor Cooper proposed, seconded by Councillor Muir, that the recommendation be adopted. He commented that officers had to assess the applications according to specific criteria and it was not the officers fault if applications had failed to meet that criteria. He also proposed that officers write to the unsuccessful applicants, outlining the reasons for the outcome of their application.
Councillor Woods requested that a brief explanation of why applications did not meet the criteria be included on future reports. In response, the Community Development Manager advised that officers were happy to inform applicants of the reason they failed to meet the criteria and in fact they encouraged groups to seek informal or formal feedback about their application.
Councillor Thompson asked whether all applicants had to attend the funding workshop and he was advised that it was not compulsory, however dates and times had been staggered to facilitate maximum attendance. Continuing, he stated that groups were wasting their time applying if they were not going to meet the criteria. He noted that some groups always seemed to be awarded funding.
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Concurring with those comments, Councillor Menagh expressed confusion that some well-established groups that had applied many times before and had previously been awarded funding, had not met the criteria for funding that time.
In response, the Community Development Manager advised that the assessment panel had concluded that those applications had lacked detail in respect of certain criteria; essentially that meant that a one-line response e.g. Arts and Crafts, was not acceptable on an application for funding.
Whilst Councillor Menagh appreciated that, he reiterated that some of them were well-established groups which had previously been eligible for, and had received funding.
The Community Development Manager clarified that there had been no change in criteria and the assessment panel did not review previous application forms from groups. She suggested that the person completing the form on behalf of a group may have changed from one year to the next.
Again, Councillor Menagh expressed his discontent that groups that had been awarded funding before had not been awarded it that time. He stressed that those groups were the lifeblood of communities.
At this stage in the meeting, Alderman Irvine proposed, seconded by Councillor Adair, that the Chair and Vice Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee be nominated to sit as observers on the assessment panel for the appeals process.
On the amendment being put to the meeting, with 16 voting FOR, 1 voting AGAINST, 0 ABSTENTIONS and 1 ABSENT, the motion was declared CARRIED.
Councillor Boyle requested a recorded vote which resulted as follows:
FOR (16) AGAINST (1) ABSTAINING (0) ABSENT (1) Aldermen Councillor Councillor Irvine Cooper Martin Smith Councillors Adair Boyle Brooks Chambers Douglas Dunne Edmund Kennedy McAlpine Menagh Muir Smart Thompson Woods
23
CW 10.05.17 PM
On the substantive motion being put to the meeting, with 16 voting FOR, 1 voting AGAINST, 0 ABSTENTIONS and 1 ABSENT, it was declared CARRIED.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Irvine, seconded by Councillor Adair, that the recommendation be adopted and that the Chair and Vice Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee be nominated to sit as observers on the assessment panel for the appeals process.
(Councillor Menagh left the meeting at this stage – 8.37pm)
9. NORTH DOWN MUSEUM FORWARD PLAN – FILE MUSEUM (Appendix V)
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 4 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that North Down Museum had developed a revised Forward Plan 2017-2020 for the museum. The plan sat under the external objectives set out under the Council Corporate Plan 2015-2019 and more specifically under the key performance indicators (KPIs) set out in the Community and Culture Service Unit Plan 2017-2018. Specifically, under
Develop more engaged, empowered and integrated communities Increase pride in the Borough Invest in and promote the borough's rich cultural heritage and environment
Consultation of the plan had taken place with a number of key stakeholders and had been reviewed and accepted by the Councils Arts and Heritage Advisory Panel.
A separate Forward Plan for the museum was a requirement of Museum Accreditation and if approved by the Council would be submitted to the UK Accreditation Scheme Panel.
The proposed plan in addition provided enough flexibility to allow services to be adapted or prioritised in order to accommodate recommendations that may arise from the proposed development of a Borough-wide Arts and Heritage strategy for the area which was currently under consideration. It was anticipated that the strategy would be completed concurrently with the Integrated Regeneration Development and Planning Strategy which was now underway.
RECOMMENDED that the Council approves the proposed Museum Forward Plan 2017-2020.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Alderman Smith, seconded by Councillor Thompson, that the recommendation be adopted.
10. PCSP CHAIR – FILE PCSP/ANDBC 23
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 26 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that at the Council meeting held on 27 May 2015, the Council had agreed that the PCSP Chair should be appointed in turn from each
24
CW 10.05.17 PM of the four largest parties on Council immediately after the last local government election. Therefore the order of nominations had been agreed as DUP, UUP, Alliance Party and Green Party.
The nominating officer for the Alliance Party had advised that the nominee for Chair for that year with effect from 1 June 2017 was Councillor Scott Wilson.
RECOMMENDED that the nomination of Councillor Wilson as the Chair of the PCSP for one year with effect from 1 June 2017 be noted.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Muir, seconded by Councillor Douglas, that the recommendation be adopted.
(Councillor Menagh returned to the meeting at this stage – 8.38pm)
11. SMOKING SHELTERS – FILE CW86
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 20 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that the 30 April 2017 had marked the ten-year anniversary of the introduction of smoke-free legislation that made enclosed or substantially enclosed workplaces and public places smoke-free. The primary aim of the legislation had been to protect employees and members of the public from exposure to second-hand smoke. It had been a huge success with a 99% compliance rate for smoke free premises as recorded during inspections across Northern Ireland (2014/15).
Under the legislation smoking was not permitted in any area which was fully or substantially enclosed but smoking could be permitted in a designated outdoor smoking area which may provide a degree of shelter from the elements (a “smoking shelter”). There was no requirement on employers or businesses to provide a smoking area however many had chosen to do so for the comfort of their staff and customers. Over time the design and size of those had moved away from the traditional view of a smoking shelter (similar to a bus shelter), to become more elaborate and now many businesses had outdoor areas, such as ‘beer gardens’, where they permitted smoking.
Those outdoor spaces were a fairly new phenomenon, however, similar to indoor areas they had to comply with the smoke free requirements and should not be confused with the provision of smoking shelters. An outdoor area may be partially open to the elements but if it was substantially enclosed, it was required to be managed as a smoke free area.
In practice that meant that if an area had a ceiling or roof, smoking would only be permitted in the area if it did not have sides (including doors, walls, windows or other fittings that could be opened or shut) that enclosed more than 50% of the area. A roof included any fixed or movable structure that covered all or part of the area, such as canvas awnings and umbrellas.
Businesses that provided an enclosed or substantially enclosed outdoor area, whether permanent or temporary in nature (including tents and marquees), had to
25
CW 10.05.17 PM ensure it was smoke free unless the entire perimeter of the area was at least 50% open.
As part of a Northern Ireland wide initiative, licenced premises and other relevant premises in the Borough would have received the above information in a letter, advising that visits would be carried out in the near future to look at the design of outdoor areas and smoking shelters to ensure that they complied with current legislation and that staff and customers were being protected from second hand smoke.
That enforcement work would be approached consistently across the Borough and action would be taken as appropriate in accordance with the Council’s enforcement policy. That meant that some premises may be asked to modify shelters they had previously thought were compliant or that had changed over time. The Officers would however, work with businesses to ensure reasonable time was given to rectify any problems before considering a more formal approach.
Businesses had also been informed that if they required advice on their smoking area or outdoor space or if they were considering making any changes to their smoke-free provision for staff or customers, it was recommended that they contacted the Council’s Environmental Health Protection and Development Service before they took any action. Officers were willing to provide the necessary advice and guidance to premises to ensure that they achieved compliance – that included referrals where appropriate for specialist advice for planning, noise, licensing and building control legislation as well as cigarette litter management.
RECOMMENDED that the Council notes the above work activity on smoking shelters across the Borough to continue to protect staff and customers from the adverse health effects of second-hand smoke.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Adair, seconded by Councillor Douglas, that the recommendation be adopted.
12. CONSULTATION ON THE EDUCATION AUTHORITIE’S STRATEGIC PLAN (2017-2020) – FILE CW93
PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED:- Report dated 26 April 2017 from the Director of Community and Wellbeing stating that the Education Authority (EA) had launched an eight week consultation on its first ever Strategic Plan, since its establishment in April 2015, when five Education and Library Boards had been brought together to create one organisation. The Strategic Plan set out the organisation’s vision to give children and young people the best start in life.
The Strategic Plan was rooted in the wider context of the NI Executives proposed Programme for Government, which was outcome based and recognised the need to work across boundaries, organisations, groups and communities for the common good.
The Strategic Plan would be supported by a three year Corporate Plan and annual business plans.m,
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CW 10.05.17 PM
The EA’s draft Strategic Plan and Survey Monkey questionnaire could be viewed at http://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/EAStrategicPlan The public consultation would run to noon on 30 May 2017.
RECOMMENDED that the Council considers this report.
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Cooper, seconded by Councillor Douglas, that the recommendation be adopted.
EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED TO RECOMMEND on the proposal of Councillor Edmund, seconded by Councillor Chambers, that the public/press be excluded during the discussion of the undernoted items of confidential business.
13. PORTAVOGIE SOCCER 3G AND PENINSULA MULTI-SPORT FACILITY UPDATE – FILE PCU32
***COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
14. BANGOR COURTHOUSE – UPDATE ON PILOT COMMUNITY ASSET TRANSFER SCHEME – FILE CW76
***COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
15. UPDATE ON WORLD WAR 1 HERITAGE PROJECT AND POTENTIAL REGIONAL PARK – FILE CX35
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
16. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
16.1 Thanks to Outgoing Chairman
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CW 10.05.17 PM
Members rose in turn to commend Councillor Dunne on his professional and diligent chairmanship of the Committee.
NOTED.
16.2 Public Toilets – Opening Hours
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
(Alderman Irvine and Councillor Chambers declared an interest in Item 16.3 and left the meeting at this stage – 8.45pm)
16.3 Serco Update
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
(Alderman Irvine and Councillor Chambers returned to the meeting at this stage – 8.46pm)
16.4 Borough Magazine - Logo
***IN CONFIDENCE***
***NOT FOR PUBLICATION***
Schedule 6 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the Council holding that information).
RE-ADMITTANCE OF PUBLIC/PRESS
AGREED, on the proposal of Councillor Cooper, seconded by Councillor Edmund, that the public/press be re-admitted to the meeting.
THANKS FROM THE CHAIRMAN
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The Chairman took the opportunity to thank members for their contribution during the past year. He also thanked the Vice Chair for his support during the year. Lastly he thanked the Director and staff from the directorate for their work which he hoped would be built upon during the coming year.
NOTED.
TERMINATION OF MEETING
The meeting terminated at 8.48pm.
29
Unclassified
ITEM 8.1
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Council
Date of Meeting 31 May 2017
Responsible Director Director of Environment
Responsible Head of Head of Building Control, Licensing and Neighbourhood Service Environment
Date of Report 19 May 2017
File Reference LR100/90101
Legislation Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) (NI) Order 1985
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☐ No ☐ Not Applicable ☒
Subject Delegation of Licensing Powers to Environment Committee
Attachments
Report
An application for the grant of an Entertainment Licence was received on the 2 May 2017 in respect of:
Duffy’s Circus, 23 Morey Drive, Donaghadee.
The application is to use Ards Rugby Football Club, Comber Road, Newtownards from the 21st June 2017.
Objections have been received to the granting of the licence on the grounds of animal welfare. Hence, before the Council can consider the application they must give the applicant and the objector the opportunity to address the Council.
As the time-scale is very short in respect of this application it is proposed that Council delegate the power to the Environment Committee to hear the representations at the June 2017 Environment Committee and for the Members of the Committee, where appropriate, to decide upon the application.
Page 1 of 2
Unclassified
Recommendation
That Council delegate the power to the Environment Committee to hear the representations in respect of the application for entertainment licence from Duffy’s Circus at the June 2017 Environment Committee and for the Members of the Committee, where appropriate, to decide upon the application.
Page 2 of 2
Parton Her Majesty The Queen
The Royal British Legion (Bangor) Branch 41 Hamilton Road BANGOR BT20 4LF Office 02891 455302 Mobile 07773142102
E mail [email protected]
Dated 15th May 2017
Ards and North Down Borough Council The Town Hall The Castle Bangor BT20 4BT
Somme Commemoration Service 2nd July 2017
The Bangor Branch of Royal British Legion wishes to invite the Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors to the Service of Remembrance to be held at the War Memorial Ward Park Bangor at 2.00pm on Sunday 2nd July 2017 to Commemorate the Battle of the Somme,
Yours sincerely
J Harper Jack Harper Chairman
Royal British Legion Charity No 219279 LIVE ON
Patron Her Majesty The Queen
The Royal British Legion (Bangor) Branch 41 Hamilton Road BANGOR BT20 4LF 02891 455302 07773142102 [email protected]
Dated 15th May 2017
SOMME COMMEMORATION SERVICE,
Amanda
In previous years, the Council has worked in partnership with the Royal British Legion and assisted with the Somme Commemoration Parade, this year it will be held on Sunday 2nd July 2017, at 2.00pm
Could you arrange for the Council departments to assist and provide the following.
Serial Date timings Assistance Required Remarks 1 2nd July 2017 War memorial to be power washed grass cut and general area cleaned and tidy up prior to the 2nd July
2 2nd July 2017 a. Flag pole and flag to be in position Mayor Councillors 1.00pm at War Memorial Ward Park. Aldermen, Councillors to b. Bowling green building and public assemble in bowling green toilets to be opened. building prior to start of c. PA System, Lectern and Gazebo for service. Minister (if Raining).
LIVE ON Registered Charity No 219279
Yours sincerely J Harper Jack Harper Chairman
LIVE ON Registered Charity No 219279
Battle of the Somme Act of Remembrance Ward Park Sunday 2nd July 2017
Serial Time Event Remarks 1 2.00pm Parade depart RBL Hall Hamilton Road 2 2.10pm Arrive War Memorial Ward Park 3 2. 20pm Service Starts Rev 4 Welcome Rev 5 Prayer Rev 6 Exhortation Chairman RBL 7 Last Post Burglar 8 2 min Silence 9 Reveille Burglar 10 Kohima Epitaph Chairman RBL 11 2.40 Wreath laying Service All 12 2.55 Finish March off Chairman RBL
J Harper Jack Harper Chairman
Royal British Legion Charity No 219279 LIVE ON
Water, Water Everywhere – Planning for Future Water Management in Northern Ireland
There is a growing awareness in the UK and Ireland of the need to consider collectively how we balance the competing demands of land use management with the sensitivities of our river catchments. There are many organisations, stakeholders, central and local government agencies, industries and the public who have competing priorities in terms of how we use and manage our water. We also experience increasing pressures from development needs, climate change, economic constraints and the continuing need to meet legislative requirements. The need for an integrated strategic approach to land and water management is never more apparent.
This Conference will present the challenges and opportunities we face in Northern Ireland in developing such a strategy. It will look specifically at the Government Polices supporting this approach and best practice examples of opportunities that could be realised at the catchment, regional and local scale offering multiple benefits to all concerned.
This is a great opportunity to hear from expert practitioners about a subject that has increasing relevance for developers, land and property owners, both public and private.
Date: 1st June 2017
Venue: Newforge Country Club, 18b Newforge Lane, Belfast BT9 5NW
Time Activity Topic Speaker / Comments 08.30 Registration Networking- Refreshments 09.00 Welcome Introduction Martin Hare – Professionals Council 09.10 Speaker 1 Integrated Water Management Andrew Jackson 09.35 Speaker 2 Integrated Management - Multiple Brendan Quigley Benefits 10.00 Q&A Martin Hare – Professionals Council 10.20 Refreshments Networking 10.50 Speaker 3 Green Infrastructure Pete Mullin, 11.20 Speaker 4 SuDS in the City – Applying ICM Anthony McCloy concepts to deliver wider benefits 11.50 Q&A 12.15 Closing Remarks Martin Hare – Professionals Council 12.30 Buffet Lunch Networking
Venue Location: Newforge Country Club, 18b Newforge Lane, Belfast, BT9 5NW Tel: 028 9068 1027 Web: http://www.newforge.com
Note: Photographic ID required at venue entrance
Who Should Attend? All those involved with construction projects
Public Servants Client Representatives Developers Directors / Managers Project Managers / Facility Managers Local Government Officers Board Members of Public Bodies / Private Companies Members of Construction Professional Bodies Representatives of the Construction Industry
The event is priced at £30 per person and you can book your ticket at the following link:
NICG PC Conference 2017 'Water, Water Everywhere' - Planning for Future Water Management in Northern Ireland
Data Protection Act – By returning this form you consent to your data being processed in accordance with the requirements of the Data Protection Act 1998. The data will be stored for the provision of services and administration associated with this event.
SEMINAR BIO
Andrew Jackson
Andrew is a Director with RPS with experience in all aspects of flood risk management. He currently has oversight of RPS’ activities across a series of central and local government frameworks across Ireland, Scotland and Wales and is also responsible for the business development activities in this sector of the business. He currently directs a team of engineers, scientists and technicians involved in hydrological assessment, numerical modelling, option development and appraisal and design of flood alleviation schemes. He works closely with other sector leaders within the RPS business involved in water resource and water quality management to provide a complete integrated water management service to clients.
Brendan Quigley
Brendan is an Associate with RPS. He is experienced in all aspects of flood risk analysis but specialises in hydrology. Brendan has spent a large part of the last five years of his career engaged across the CFRAM catchment flood studies for the OPW in the Republic of Ireland where he was responsible for the delivery of the hydrological analysis amongst other deliverables of these large strategic projects. He has also been responsible for the delivery of numerous flood risk assessment studies in support of developments and planning submissions and as such has found himself on both sides of the fence in relation to policy development and delivery.
Pete Mullin
Pete is a Chartered Landscape Architect with over 25 years’ experience studying, teaching and practicing in the sector. He is a graduate of the internationally respected Landscape Architecture degree programme at Edinburgh University / Edinburgh College of Art; and has worked at all levels within the private sector, from large multidisciplinary practices to small private studios across the UK and Ireland. He is personally responsible for the design and successful completion of several hundred environmental design commissions. In addition to his design practice work, Pete is the Landscape Institutes Policy Consultant for Northern Ireland, and Chair of Northern Ireland Environment Links Land Matters Task Force.
Anthony McCloy
Anthony is Managing Director of McCloy Consulting overseeing offices in Belfast and Dublin. He is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of Engineers Ireland.
Anthony is nationally recognised for his contributions in the field of Sustainable Drainage and regularly speaks at conferences and seminars. As a leading specialist, he is a lead tutor for the National SUDS training workshops which are now running over a 10-year period, with courses delivered across UK, Ireland and Europe. He has contributed to National and Local Guidance, particularly concerning practical design issues, numerical computation processes and management of SuDS. Presently, Anthony is involved in the design of a number of innovative SuDS retro-fit schemes, coordinating several integrated urban drainage modelling studies and co-authoring a SuDS design and evaluation guide commissioned by 15 local authorities throughout England.
The Chairperson Ards and North Down District Council Town Hall The Castle BANGOR BT20 4BT
23rd May 2017
Dear Chairperson
Important: Regional Pay Briefing - Northern Ireland Councils – July 2017
NILGA is required to co-ordinate a consultative session on behalf of the Local Government Association’s Workforce Team (the National Local Government Employer body) to enable you to consider councils, both senior officers and elected members, specifically on the Trade Unions Side new pay claim for the year commencing 1st April 2018. This is a change to the usual pay negotiations timetable, as we fully expect to receive a formal 2018 new pay claim from the local government unions side in June.
As well as discussing the pay claim, the LGA / NILGA will be providing a strategic update on the technical review of the NJC ‘Green Book’ pay spine which will feature in the Employers’ response to the above mentioned pay claim. Therefore this is your council’s chance to understand and inform the complex issues that the sector faces in revising the pay spine to meet the challenge of the National Living Wage, together with a real opportunity for your council’s representatives to set out views regarding how you would wish us to progress in negotiations with national unions.
All regions consultations are required to take place in July, because of the anticipated June receipt of the Pay Claim. For Northern Ireland councils, the pay consultation is scheduled to take place on Thursday 27th July 2017 starting at 10.30am. The venue is the Steeple Suite, Antrim Civic Centre, 50 Stiles Way, Antrim, BT41 2UB. A local map is attached.
As in previous regional sessions, we would therefore invite up to 3 representatives from your council (to include at least one senior officer) to attend this pay briefing. This invitation has gone to all Mayors and Chairs of councils, and all council Chief Executives for their attention and for forwarding to senior Human Resources Officers. Attendees should report to the main reception and notify staff that you are attending the LGA Pay Briefing.
Northern Ireland Local Government Association Bradford Court, Upper Galwally, Castlereagh, BT8 6RB Tel: 028 9079 8972 email: [email protected] web: www.nilga.org twitter: @NI_LGA
Tea/Coffee will be available from 10.00am and a light lunch will be provided after the event, which should complete around Noon.
Confirmation of those attending should be forwarded to Sarah Little at NILGA (tel: 028 9079 8972 or e-mail: [email protected]) no later than 4.00pm on Tuesday 18th July 2017 in order that we can make catering arrangements.
Yours sincerely,
Derek McCallan Chief Executive and National Pay Local Co-ordinator
Northern Ireland Local Government Association Bradford Court, Upper Galwally, Castlereagh, BT8 6RB Tel: 028 9079 8972 email: [email protected] web: www.nilga.org twitter: @NI_LGA
Antrim Civic Centre 50 Stiles Way Antrim BT41 2UB Tel: (028) 9446 3113
The Civic Centre is conveniently located on the outskirts of Antrim town within easy reach of motorway links and local airports.
Directions from Belfast Head northwest on M2 motorway Exit M2 motorway at Junction 7 (sign post for Antrim Area Hospital) At Bush Road Roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Bush Road Continue for approximately 1 mile to end of road junction/traffic lights Turn right onto Stiles Way and travel for approximately 0.4 miles Antrim Borough Council Civic Centre is situated on left hand side
Directions from Ballymena/North Head southeast on M2 motorway Exit M2 motorway at Junction 7 (sign post for Antrim Area Hospital) At 1st roundabout take the 4th exit onto Niblock Road At 2nd roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Bush Road Continue for approximately 1 mile to end of road - junction/traffic lights Turn right onto Stiles Way and travel for approximately 0.4 miles Antrim Borough Council Civic Centre is situated on left hand side
Directions from Crumlin/Lisburn At Belfast International Airport Roundabout follow signs for Antrim (low bridge) A26 Continue for approximately 3 miles to end of road T junction/traffic lights Turn right onto Belfast Road A6 Take left hand turn off onto Ballycraigy Road (signpost for Antrim Area Hospital) Continue through roundabout, ie take 2nd exit Continue through traffic lights onto Stiles Way Antrim Borough Council Civic Centre is situated on left hand side
Distance in miles from Antrim Town Town Miles Town Miles Armagh 42 (67km) Ballymena 11 (18km) Bangor 32 (51km) Belfast 19 (31km) Coleraine 40 (64km) Cookstown 32 (51km) Dungannon 45 (72km) Enniskillen 86 (138km) Larne 21 (34km) Londonderry 55 (89km) Newcastle 43 (69km) Newry 47 (76km) Omagh 54 (87km) Strabane 62 (100km)
Unclassified
ITEM 9.6
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Full Council
Date of Meeting 31 May 2017
Responsible Director Chief Executive
Responsible Head of Service
Date of Report 24 May 2017
File Reference
Legislation
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Not Applicable ☐
Subject Somme Commemoration
Attachments
Members will be aware that for a number of years the Somme Association have arranged and facilitated visits to the annual Somme Commemoration event at the Ulster Tower, Thiepval, held on 1st July each year.
Council has been advised that due to the centenary of the Battle of Messines in June, the Somme Association are not intending to arrange a Tour or Pilgrimage to the event this year. However, previous Council practice had been for the Mayor and a small number of Members to attend this commemoration, with the Mayor laying a wreath on behalf of Council. The commemoration service will take place as usual at the Ulster Tower.
Officers are currently making enquiries to ascertain if other tour options may exist by which Members could continue to represent the Council at the Somme Commemoration. A verbal update will be provided at the Council Meeting on the outcome of those enquiries.
However, a decision would be required on whether the Council wishes to send a small delegation of Members, accompanied by a Council Officer, subject to cost and suitable arrangements.
Page 1 of 2
Unclassified
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that Members consider approving a delegation to attend the Somme Commemoration event on 1st July 2017 in Thiepval, France, and, if so, that the necessary arrangements be made to facilitate this visit and seek nominations.
Page 2 of 2
Unclassified
ITEM 10
Ards and North Down Borough Council
Report Classification Unclassified
Council/Committee Council
Date of Meeting 31 May 2017
Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning
Responsible Head of Temporary Head of Tourism Service
Date of Report 16 May 2017
File Reference TO/TD4
Legislation
Section 75 Compliant Yes ☐ No ☐ Not Applicable ☒
Subject Update on Proposed Additional Beach Award Applications
Attachments None
In December 2016 the Regeneration, Development and Planning Committee approved a recommendation to apply for two additional beach awards at Knockinelder and Portavogie North beaches for the 2018 bathing season, with the costs of a) the award application process and b) the water quality testing required in order to obtain an award, being allocated to Tourism and Environmental Health budget codes respectively.
The report in December was based on advice from the national beach award operator, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, that five water quality samples would be required at each beach during the summer 2017 bathing season. KNIB has however recently indicated that in fact 20 samples would be required. KNIB is also advising that these would be best obtained over two years, to avoid the possibility of unfavourable samples resulting in a “fail” for either beach. KNIB has concerns that water quality at Portavogie North in particular is at risk, based on the results of recent marine litter surveys indicating a proportion of sewage related debris on occasion.
If KNIB’s recommendation to conduct water quality testing over two bathing seasons were accepted, this would mean applying for awards for the two beaches for the 2019 bathing season, rather than 2018. However, an additional consideration now is Page 1 of 2
Unclassified that having understated the number of samples required, KNIB had also understated the cost of water quality testing prior to the original report to Committee, as follows:
Original KNIB Costing Current KNIB Costing £380 x 2 beaches x 1 year = £750 x 2 beaches x 2 years = £760 £3000
The anticipated cost of obtaining awards for the two beaches has therefore risen by almost 400%.
Further, the Council would have to commit to an expenditure of £1500 year-on-year beyond 2018, as water quality must be reconfirmed annually to maintain award status.
No new beaches can be added to the DAERA-funded water testing programme until DAERA’s next review. As these reviews normally happen every five years, the next review is potentially not until 2021. In any case the DAERA funded testing applies only to beaches which regularly attract over 100 bathers on five peak survey dates over one summer. It is highly questionable whether either of the comparatively remote Knockinelder and Portavogie North beaches would attain that number of bathers, even with award status.
Based on this revised understanding of the actual costs associated with applying for awards at the two beaches, and the uncertainty that award status, if obtained, would generate an increase in visitors justifying the cost, the value for money of pursuing award status is now in doubt. On that basis it is recommended that the Council does not pursue awards for beaches unless they have been designated by DAERA, including Knockinelder and Portavogie North.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that Council agrees
1. a policy of no applications for beach awards unless a beach has been designated by DAERA 2. a review of Ards and North Down beaches for possible designation prior to the next DAERA survey programme, estimated in 2021
Page 2 of 2
ITEM 14
NOTICE OF MOTIONS UPDATE – May 2017
TO BE POPULATED BY DEMOCRATIC SERVICES
DATE NOTICE SUBMITTED COUNCIL COMMITTEE OUTCOME OF RESPONSIBLE MONTH IT OTHER RECEIVED BY MEETING REFERRED TO COMMITTEE DIRECTOR WILL BE ACTION DATE WHERE NOM REPORTED TO BE DEBATED BACK TO TAKEN COMMITTEE 07/11/14 Investigate concept Councillor 04/12/14 Governance Agreed Chief Executive Ongoing behind innovation lab Walker 18.12.14
29/03/15 To ask officers to draft a Councillor 29/04/15 Council Agreed Community and Ongoing Community Charter for Barry 27.05.15 & Wellbeing the new Council 26.08.15 31/05/15 Permanent recognition Councillor 24/06/15 Corporate Agreed Organisational Ongoing of Rory McIlroy in Muir Services Development & Holywood 13.10.15 Administration 21/10/15 That this Council tasks Councillor Council Community Agreed Community and November Officers to bring forward Adair and October and Wellbeing 2017 a report identifying Councillor 2015 Wellbeing suitable projects to avail Thompson May 2017 of funding under the NI (interim) Rural Development Programme for the upgrade of Children's Play Parks”. NOTE - this
TO BE POPULATED BY DEMOCRATIC SERVICES
DATE NOTICE SUBMITTED COUNCIL COMMITTEE OUTCOME OF RESPONSIBLE MONTH IT OTHER RECEIVED BY MEETING REFERRED TO COMMITTEE DIRECTOR WILL BE ACTION DATE WHERE NOM REPORTED TO BE DEBATED BACK TO TAKEN COMMITTEE NOM was amended at the Council meeting to read: That this Council tasks Officers to bring forward a report identifying suitable projects to avail of funding under the NI Rural Development Programme for the upgrade of Children's Play Parks and the provision of Multi use games areas”. 17/08/16 That Council officers Councillor Council Community prepare a report on the Chambers August and feasibility of Council 2016 Wellbeing providing in the future, a May 2017 dedicated facility in Bangor, for skateboarding 11/11/16 Set up of Economic Alderman Council Regeneration Amended at Regeneration Part of On Development Forum McDowell October and Regeneration and Strategy going 2016 Development and Development Committee Development
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TO BE POPULATED BY DEMOCRATIC SERVICES
DATE NOTICE SUBMITTED COUNCIL COMMITTEE OUTCOME OF RESPONSIBLE MONTH IT OTHER RECEIVED BY MEETING REFERRED TO COMMITTEE DIRECTOR WILL BE ACTION DATE WHERE NOM REPORTED TO BE DEBATED BACK TO TAKEN COMMITTEE November Committee – 2016 November 2016 05/10/16 Negotiations for the Alderman Council Community Amended Community and May 2017 On Proposed Extension and Fletcher October and Wellbeing going Improvements in 2016 Wellbeing Ballygowan Village Hall November 2016 05/10/16 Upgrade of Play Alderman Council Community Amended Community and May 2017 On Facilities at Park Way, Fletcher October and Wellbeing going Comber including 2016 Wellbeing ‘Muckers’ November 2016 15/11/16 That Council considers Councillor Council Corporate Amended Organisational June 2017 the purchase of a Martin Novembe Services Development number of r 2016 December and Commemorative 2016 Administration benches (to remember our Fallen from all wars and conflicts) for appropriate locations throughout the Borough. 13/12/16 Asserting Cushies Lane, Councillor Council Corporate Report to be Organisational September Groomsport Chambers January Services prepared by Development 2017 2017 Committee officers
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DATE NOTICE SUBMITTED COUNCIL COMMITTEE OUTCOME OF RESPONSIBLE MONTH IT OTHER RECEIVED BY MEETING REFERRED TO COMMITTEE DIRECTOR WILL BE ACTION DATE WHERE NOM REPORTED TO BE DEBATED BACK TO TAKEN COMMITTEE February and 2017 Administration 1/2/2017 Portavo Reservoir Councillor Council Community Deferred to Awaiting reply June 2017 Martin February and Community to letter 2017 Wellbeing and March 2017 Wellbeing in April 2017 - Amended 28/2/17 The Point, Groomsport Councillor Council Environment Deferred to Environment June 2017 Chambers March Committee Environment 2017 April 2017 Committee 28/2/17 War Memorial – Conlig Councillors Council Corporate Agreed in June 2017 Barry and March Services principle Woods 2017 Committee pending April 2017 report 21/3/17 That this Council, as Councillor Council Regeneration Agreed part of the planned Cathcart, March & regeneration of Bangor Councillor 2017 Development Seafront and marketing Douglas, Committee of 'Bangor by the Sea', Alderman April 2017 tasks officers to liaise Henry, with Quay Marinas Ltd Alderman and BJ Marine to Irvine, explore greater public Councillor access to the Marina McClean
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DATE NOTICE SUBMITTED COUNCIL COMMITTEE OUTCOME OF RESPONSIBLE MONTH IT OTHER RECEIVED BY MEETING REFERRED TO COMMITTEE DIRECTOR WILL BE ACTION DATE WHERE NOM REPORTED TO BE DEBATED BACK TO TAKEN COMMITTEE and seafront. and Discussions to explore Councillor the potential of a Robinson continuous public path around the Marina, from Pickie to the Long Hole; public access to the central pier; as well as the reorganisation of the boatyard to regain seaviews and Bangor's place as a seaside town. 21.3.17 Assertion of path at Councillor Council Corporate Amended Organisational September Portavo Reservoir as Muir and March Services and agreed Development & 2017 Right of Way Walker 2017 Committee Administration April 2017 21.3.17 Future management Councillor Council Environment May 2017 On and operation of Brooks April Committee going harbours and slipways and 2017 Councillor Edmund 6.4.17 Safe access to Councillor April Corporate To be ratified reproductive healthcare Woods 2017 Committee – at Council facilities in NI and May 2017 May 2017
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DATE NOTICE SUBMITTED COUNCIL COMMITTEE OUTCOME OF RESPONSIBLE MONTH IT OTHER RECEIVED BY MEETING REFERRED TO COMMITTEE DIRECTOR WILL BE ACTION DATE WHERE NOM REPORTED TO BE DEBATED BACK TO TAKEN COMMITTEE Councillor Barry 6.4.17 Resettlement of lone Councillor April Corporate To be ratified child refugees from Woods 2017 Committee – at council Europe – Dubs Scheme and May 2017 May 2017 Councillor Barry 25.04.17 Recurring bridge strikes Councillor May 2017 at Ballysallagh Road – Wilson write to Transport NI 26.4.17 Provision of Councillor May 2017 Defibrillators across the Robinson Council Estate 26.4.17 Support for the PCSP Councillor May 2017 initiative No Hate Here Robinson
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4th May 2017
Launch of recruitment competition for Independent Assessors for the Commissioner for Public Appointments
The Commissioner for Public Appointments in Northern Ireland has announced a recruitment campaign to appoint up to 17 Assessors to her team and is encouraging applications from all sections of the community. Assessors sit on the selection panels for public appointments.
The competition aims to appoint Independent Assessors who will bring her or his experience and judgment to the role.
The Commissioner said: “The Independent Assessors have an important role to play in ensuring that the best people go forward for appointment to the leadership of our public bodies. They play a particularly vital role in promoting diversity on our public Boards to ensure that Boards are reflective of the society they serve.
I would encourage applications from a wide range of people who consider that they meet the criteria and who have a genuine desire to contribute to public life. If you believe you have the necessary skills and attributes but have never considered applying for this type of post before, you can have confidence that your application will be welcomed and treated with respect and courtesy.”
The time commitment for an Independent Assessor varies depending on the number of competitions run by Departments.
The appointments will be effective from mid August 2017 and run for a period of four years.
Appointments will be made from those individuals who satisfy the criteria and who help achieve the best mix of skills and experience to be an Independent Assessor.
Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland Dundonald House, Annexe B, Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3SB Tel: 028 905 24820 Email: [email protected] Application Packs can be downloaded from the Commissioner’s website, where you will also find full details of the essential criteria and guidance on the application process. Go to www.publicappointmentsni.org.
Notes to Editors:
1.CPA NI are running the competition in the ‘spirit’ of the Commissioner’s Code of Practice.
2.All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process.
3.All media queries should be directed to CPA NI on 028 90524820 or 07979508413, or e-mail [email protected].