ards and north down borough council€¦ · 6. quay marina’s quarterly april-june 2018 report...

ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL

28 September 2018 Dear Sir/Madam You are hereby invited to attend a meeting of the Regeneration and Development Committee of the Ards and North Down Borough Council which will be held in the Council Chamber, 2 Church Street, Newtownards on Thursday 4 October 2018 commencing at 7.00pm. Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be available from 6.00pm. Yours faithfully Stephen Reid Chief Executive Ards and North Down Borough Council

A G E N D A

1. Apologies 2. Declarations of Interest

3. Update report on Low Powered Wide Area Network and Local Full Fibre Network

Projects (Report attached)

4. EBR - Co-Innovate Programme (Report attached)

5. Business Support Programme 2018-2019 (Report attached)

6. Quay Marina’s Quarterly April-June 2018 Report (Report attached)

7. Crafted Gift Fair 2018 (Report attached)

8. Promotion of Free Wi-Fi in Five Towns (Report attached)

9. Public Realm Scheme – Portaferry (Report attached)

10. Village Renewal Schemes – Update (Report attached)

11. Cross Channel Swim Sign (Report attached)

12. Ice Cream Sales at Bangor Seafront (Report attached)

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13. Review of Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership (Report attached)

14. Pipe Band Championships 2019 (Report attached)

15. Regeneration and Development Budgetary Control Report – August 2018 (Report attached)

16.Minutes of Donaghadee Town Steering Group dated 10 September 2018 (Copy

attached) 17.Minutes of Comber Town Steering Group dated 18 September 2018 (Copy

attached) 18.Notices of Motion 18.1. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Cooper In light of the substantial obvious increase in the population of Comber as a result of new building developments, officers urgently investigate introducing a one way system from Mill street and Castle street towards the square as quickly as possible, to alleviate the existing (and future worsening), traffic congestion, and bring back a report as to how to proceed and facilitate this provision forthwith. 18.2. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Martin and Councillor Dunne This Council asks for an update report to be brought forward on the redevelopment of Grey Point Fort in Helens Bay with due regards to current funding streams, overall timescales and milestones on this project. This is an important military landmark in our Borough and is currently in need of a considerable amount of refurbishment. Council also requests an informal meeting between Senior Officers, stakeholders and local military historians to update them and discuss future plans for the site. 18.3. Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Thompson That Council officers bring back a report with costs regarding the extension in 2019, of the Sunday Musical Concerts, currently being held in Ward Park to other venues across the Borough including the Ards Peninsula Villages. ***IN CONFIDENCE*** 19.Donaghadee Heritage Preservation Company Ltd (Report attached)

20.Waterfront Development Scheme for Portaferry – Feasibility Study (Report attached)

21.Market Research – Pickie Funpark 2018 (Report attached)

22.Growth Achievement Programme (GAP) (Report attached)

23.Queens Parade Development (Verbal Update)

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24. Belfast Region City Deal (Verbal Update)

25. Flagship Centre (Report attached)

26. Any Other Notified Business

Circulated for Information

a) Letter from DfE re Ards and NDBC Exceeding Target in Business Start-up Activity Performance (Copy attached)

MEMBERSHIP OF REGENERATION AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Alderman Irvine Councillor Gilmour Alderman McDowell (Chairman) Councillor Ferguson Alderman M Smith Councillor Menagh Councillor Adair Councillor Smart Councillor Allen Councillor T Smith Councillor Armstrong-Cotter Councillor Walker Councillor Cooper Councillor Wilson Councillor Cummings Councillor Woods (Vice-Chairman) Councillor Dunlop

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ITEM 3

Ards and North Down Borough Council

Report Classification Unclassified

Council/Committee Regeneration and Development Committee

Date of Meeting 04 October 2018

Responsible Director Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning

Responsible Head of Service

Head of Economic Development

Date of Report 18 September 2018

File Reference ED46

Legislation N/A

Section 75 Compliant Yes ☒ No ☐ Other ☐

If other, please add comment below:

Subject Update report on Low Powered Wide Area Network (LPWAN/LoRA) and Local Full Fibre Network Projects (LFFN)

Attachments None At Council, on 31 January 2018, it was agreed that Ards and North Down Borough Council would participate in the LPWAN/LoRA project. Members may recall that a consortium called Things Connected NI, led by Ulster University, Invest NI, Tourism NI and 9 local Councils across Northern Ireland was successful in bidding to be one of the funded networks to deploy the technology across Northern Ireland to accelerate the demand and innovation of industrial Internet of Things (IoT). LPWAN Project Update Following on from the previous report, the technology has been rolled out across Northern Ireland, and the Ards and North Down is receiving the gateways/base stations throughout the borough. The technology is free to use and available to Internet of Things entrepreneurs and developers to prototype, test and scale-up Internet of Things ideas. It is hoped that the provision of the network will encourage the deployment of sensors, applications and services and enable businesses to develop exciting and innovative Internet of Things products and services.

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Members will also recollect that a Challenge Fund was launched to accelerate growth in Internet of Things technology in the undernoted areas. These challenge areas are:

• Agriculture • Creative Technologies • Management of Playable open spaces • Manufacturing • Healthy Smart buildings • Tourism • Logistics and Transportation

The Challenge Fund closed at the end of the summer and evaluated on 11 September 2018. The evaluation panel consisted of partner Councils, Ulster University and InvestNI. Two companies from the Ards and North Down area passed the criterion and will be able to avail of the funding from stage one of the Challenge Fund. An initial contribution will be given, to allow each company to “work up” their proposal with a view to additional funding being available at stage two. Members will be aware that one of the key themes from the Integrated Strategy for Tourism, Regeneration and Economic Development is Connect Places and People through the creation of a blue and greenway network, continuous coastal route, a sustainable transport strategy and advocacy and digital and collaborative networks. It is hoped that this new technology may assist in the delivery of key outcomes of the Strategy while also generating economic growth in new and innovative ways for local SMEs. Council will be kept advised on how the project develops during the next stage. LFFN Programme Update Background Further to the report ratified at Council on 30 May 2018, providing the initial details of a national scheme being offered by the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to apply for funding under the Wave 3 project. What is LFFN? The Local Full Fibre Networks (LFFN) programme of the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is designed to stimulate commercial investment in full fibre networks in rural and urban locations across the whole of the UK. LFFN aims to: • Stimulate more commercial investment to deliver more gigabit-capable Connectivity. • Directly maximise the availability and benefit of gigabit-capable broadband

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services to public sector, business and residential users. • Improve commercial investment conditions in local areas. The aim of the scheme called Local Full Fibre Network (LFFN) is to stimulate the telecoms market to invest in more fibre connectivity for homes, businesses and 5G masts. It will have important long-term benefits. Although it is likely to directly improve availability of high bandwidth connectivity in some areas, its main effect will be felt more slowly through the commercial investment that will follow in time. The LFFN Challenge Fund is a capital grant programme of up to £200m, delivered in competitive waves, to help deliver the fastest and most reliable digital communications network available. £95m remains to be allocated to projects in the remaining Wave 3 round, which has just been announced. It was agreed that Ards and North Down Borough Council approved the feasibility of the development of a bid under Wave 3, with costs (£25,000) being met from existing budgets. Current Position To progress the project, the Council has appointed a consultant to assist in its preparation for making a technical application to bid for funding under Wave 3. Further to that, an approach was made by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to all Councils in Northern Ireland to work together to submit a collective bid to DCMS for Northern Ireland as a whole, as there are clear indications that this approach will deliver a better outcome for each Council and for Northern Ireland as a whole. There are strong indications that individual bids are less likely to be successful. The response has been unanimously positive, and the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council team has taken the lead and worked closely with those of other councils to develop the approach. Full Fibre Northern Ireland (FFNI) is the name given to the consortium of ten Northern Ireland Councils who will work together to submit a Wave 3 bid.

Belfast City Council will continue to focus on the deployment of its Wave 2 funding, however will support the consortium with advice and assistance.

The specialist consultant resources already employed by Councils have agreed to work together to develop a collective bid to be submitted to DCMS. On 15 August 2018, all ten Councils came together and attended a workshop with the consultants to work up a technical application for submission to DCMS. On 7 September 2018, the FFNI Consortium was invited to present to DCMS in London and representatives from the FFNI Consortium were successful in terms of progressing through this first stage.

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As a result, resources are now available from DCMS to work up the next steps of the proposal. In terms of moving forward as a FFNI Consortium, it is envisaged that a Memorandum of Agreement may be useful in due course between all the Councils involved. Further update reports will be made to Council as the project develops.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the report be noted, and that a further update report will be brought to Committee as required.

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ITEM 4



Council/Committee Regeneration and Development






File Reference ED65

Legislation



Subject EBR - Co-Innovate Programme

Attachments

Background

The Co-Innovate programme is a cross border research and innovation (R&I) initiative funded under the European INTERREG VA Programme. Co-Innovate has been awarded just over €16.67m of funding under the EU’s Interreg VA programme covering the period December 2016 to March 2022.

Co-Innovate aims to increase the proportion of SMEs engaged in cross-border research and innovation in the Interreg eligible region of Northern Ireland, Border Region of Ireland and Western Scotland. The programme brings together these regions’ key development agencies to deliver a programme aligned with each government’s strategic priorities. In Northern Ireland, key elements of Co-innovate will be delivered by Enterprise NI and its member Local Enterprise Agencies. In the Border Region of Ireland this support will be delivered by the Local Enterprise Offices in Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth.

It is widely recognised that innovation is a critical driver to competitiveness and growth. A survey carried out by InterTradeIreland across the eligible region showed that nearly 50% of SMEs are not innovation active. Each of the three jurisdictions aims to increase business

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expenditure on R&I and increase the number of firms innovating. The Co-Innovate programme intends to complement and support this aim and will target SMEs in the manufacturing and tradable services sector.

The new partnership, led by InterTradeIreland, has developed an integrated programme of support and will run until early 2022. There are five key strands of activities that will engage with over 1,408 SMEs providing education and capability development support tailored to their needs. Co-innovate aims to support three priority sectors, renewables, health & life science and agri-food but all businesses in the manufacturing and tradable services sectors can apply.

Strand 1 – An SME’s first formal engagement with the Co-Innovate programme will be to undertake a newly developed R&I diagnostic toolkit: the ‘Innovation Ready Reckoner’. This will be conducted to assess the company’s current position in terms of innovation. A series of workshops will be delivered at different times and locations throughout the first 3 years of the programme. They will be delivered by Innovation Experts familiar with the challenges facing SMEs. Strand 2 – Successful companies will undertake a detailed Business Status Review (BSR). After a selection process, companies will progress to a comprehensive Innovation Audit (IA). Strand 3 – Enterprise-specific action plans will be designed for each company progressing to Strand 3. These action plans will concentrate on developing Research & Innovation capabilities. Up to 10 days intensive mentoring will be provided to address specific challenges.

The Local Enterprise Agencies - North Down Development Organisation and Ards Business

Centre are involved in the delivery of Strands 1-3 in the Council area.

Strand 4 – Companies will have the opportunity to engage in a cross-border R&I partnership involving their company, a research institute and an intern over a 12 month period. Co-Innovate will pay 50% of an intern’s salary for 1 year (up to €18,500) and 24 days of support from a research institute will be provided at no cost to the company; and

Strand 5 - Sector-specific networks and partnerships involving enterprises and research institutes will be established. B2B collaborations can avail of up to €150K

Delivery in Ards & North Down Council area

The table below provides a progress update into the current status of delivery (first 15 months). The programme commenced in July 2017 and will continue for Strands 1-3 until June 2020, and Strands 4 & 5 to March 2022.

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St. 1 Target

St. 1 Actual

St. 2 BSR Target

St. 2 BSR Actual

St.2 IA target

St.2 IA actual

St. 3/4/5 target

St.3/4/5 actual

32 12 32 11 12 3 2 1

With a remaining 21 months of programme delivery, the programme is on schedule to meet the above targets.

The Council will continue to promote the Co-Innovate programme in close co-operation with the Local Enterprise Agencies and will continue to monitor progress against targets on a regular basis.

RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the report be noted.

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ITEM 5









File Reference

Legislation



Subject Business Support Programme 2018-2019

Attachments Appendix 1: Business Support Summary 2018-2019 Background Following on from the launch of the ITRDS in March 2018, the Economic Development support team have been tasked with reviewing their current support offering to ensure that it meets current business needs and is appropriate to help towards the delivery of the aims and objectives of the strategy.

The ITRDS is a long term sustainable vision which aims to grow the number of jobs and productivity within the Borough. It is further supported by the Corporate plan 2015-20 which clearly states that the Council will provide an environment where entrepreneurs can flourish and contribute to the Borough being an attractive, vibrant and prosperous place to live and work in.

Supporting the local economy and delivering growth In order to achieve a balanced local economy and one where benefits can be delivered at a variety of levels a pipeline of support has been created. The aim is to

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tap into potential and to encourage enterprise and economic growth. The pathway is visualised below:

Young Enterprise

Pre-Enterprise/Employability & Skills

Business Start

Business Development

Business Growth through Exports

The support needed to encourage the creation of a higher growth economy requires interventions offering varying levels of support from 1:1 mentoring, key information sessions and workshops through to multi-sector and sector specific mentor based programmes.

The programme is based on feedback from local businesses and on what interventions can best support their business to grow. It also involves programmes of support which research has shown to prove effective in delivering jobs, better productivity by those who engage and a more sustainable local economy and will evolve and develop to fully support the actions outlined in the ITRDS 2018-2030.

The overall Programme of support for 2018-2019 is highlighted in Appendix 1. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Members note the content of the report.

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ITEM 6









File Reference 141671

Legislation N/A



Subject Quay Marinas Quarterly April - June 2018 Report

Attachments Quarterly April - June 2018 Report Members will be aware that Quay Marinas operate Bangor Marina on behalf of Council. As part of the agreement, Quay Marinas provide a quarterly report which is presented to Committee as received. Attached is the first quarter report for 2018/19. The report covers the entire range of activities that are undertaken in the Marina.

RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that this report is noted.

Quay Marinas – Bangor Marina April – June 2018 Page 1 of 35

ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL – QUAY MARINAS LIMITED

BANGOR MARINA AND HARBOUR

FIRST QUARTER REPORT APRIL – JUNE 2018

GENERAL

The fantastic period of good weather during the latter part of Quarter enabled many boat owners to

enjoy time afloat.

Our operating profit of £31,090 is £4,351 up on budget with all income categories (apart from

parking) ahead of budgeted figures. Also costs for the first three months are in line with budgeted

figures so overall, we are happy with the positive start to the new year.

General UK Economy

The stronger global economy, and the competitive value of the pound, have boosted UK exports and

inbound tourism, offering some support for overall UK GDP growth that should continue through

2018. However, the Eurozone economy has slowed recently, and any further escalation of

international trade tensions could dampen global growth in 2019 and beyond.

Northern Ireland Economy

Consumers and businesses continue to face challenges. Household spending power is slowly

recovering but consumers remain under some pressure and heightened uncertainty surrounding

Brexit which is negatively affecting business investment. These factors are expected to lead to

underwhelming economic growth of 0.9% in 2018 and 1.1% in 2019.

Northern Ireland has now been without a devolved government since January 2017, following the

collapse of the power-sharing administration. The lack of representation has resulted in

Westminster legislating on behalf of the stalled Executive on some issues, including setting a budget

and deciding on household rates. Concerns remain over the lack of representation for Northern

Ireland, at the talks around Brexit and the border with the Republic of Ireland. The uncertainty is

negatively affecting both consumer and business confidence.

As the UK continues to make arrangements for leaving the EU in March 2019, there are still

significant decisions to be made. The main stumbling block is the continuing deadlock regarding how

a hard border with the Republic of Ireland will be avoided after the UK leaves the EU. With regards

to the future trading relationship, the UK has yet to set out any meaningful, realistic and detailed

plans for how it sees trade and border arrangements with the EU operating in the longer-term. With

time running out, the UK Government now needs to accept that it is decision time and take the steps

needed to minimise the damage Brexit will cause to the UK and Northern Ireland economies


The Weather – Does El Nino and La Nina effect the weather in Ards and North Down?

La Nina, meaning Girl Child in Spanish, is the follow-on from a warming pattern of waters around

South America, the so-called El Nino, or Boy Child.

A huge El Nino set in off the coast of Peru during 2015 and was one of the strongest ever recorded.

Its La Nina counterpart followed last autumn and triggered a swing to cooler than normal

temperatures across the east Pacific. This event, which is now coming to an end has returned sea

temperatures to normal and is linked to warmer than average weather patterns in North America,

Asia and the Far East.

Evidence suggests that previous La Nina’s have been followed by notably warm and even record-

breaking summer seasons in the UK. A powerful La Nina event in 1976 was followed by the hottest

summer ever recorded in the United Kingdom with 30C-plus temperatures recorded for 16 days in a

row in London. A strong La Nina became established across the eastern Pacific in 1989 after which

came the heatwave of 1990 which brought record August highs of 37.1C (98.8F).

While its effects in the UK are the subject of debate, I personally believe that La Nina and El Nino

events play a role in the weather systems which track across the Atlantic and effect our Island.


April

The month started cold with snow on high ground, but warmed up after the 5th. The weather was

unsettled and cloudy for most of the time, but with a warm spell between the 18th and 21st, and the

last week was mostly bright and showery.

The mean temperature was provisionally 0.3 °C above the long-term average. Rainfall was 108% of

average, and sunshine was 89% of average, and it was a cloudy month in the south but with closer to

average sunshine in the north.

May

May started off cool and unsettled but from the 5th onwards it was generally warm. The first half

remained generally unsettled but there was a lot of dry sunny weather in the second half of the

month when high pressure was often close by and easterly winds were frequent.

The mean temperature was provisionally 1.6 °C above the long-term average. It was a generally dry

sunny month overall with 80% of average rainfall and 123% of average sunshine, but some western

parts had close to average rainfall.

June

June began with thundery showers in many places, but it was mostly warm and sunny during the

first third of the month. It was somewhat more unsettled from the 13th to 20th with westerly

winds, and unseasonably windy on the 14th. From the 21st onwards it was mostly dry, sunny, and

increasingly hot.

The mean temperature for June was provisionally 2.1 °C above the 1981-2010 average and it was the

warmest June in a series from 1910. It was a dry month but not exceptionally so, with 64% of

average rainfall. Sunshine was 159% of average, making it the 5th sunniest June in a series from

1929.


Photos taken during the past quarter.


1.0 INCOME

1.1 Contract income

At the end of the quarter, 310 berthing contracts have been completed representing at this stage

91.9 % of annual target income.


1.2 Casual (Visiting Boats)

During the past quarter 638 individual visiting boats stayed 1819 nights. Income generated through

visiting boats was £26.5k which is approximately £1.6k above budget.


Competition - Belfast Harbour Marina Competition from Belfast Harbour Marina has had an impact upon foreign visitors berthing at Bangor. Belfast Harbour Marina offers overnight berthing at a fixed fee of £18.10 per vessel (up to 15 meters) which includes electricity, water and use of facilities including a free laundry.

TransEurope Marinas We continue to actively promote the TransEurope Marinas organisation. The underlining benefit of this organisation is to stimulate movement between marinas. During the past quarter 18 members stayed 42 overnights. International visitors during the past quarter. French 26 German 6 Japanese 1 Swedish 1 Dutch 8 Norwegian 4 Swiss 1 Polish 1 Danish 1 American 1


Noteworthy Visitors TS Royalist - Tuesday 29th & Wednesday 30th May TS Royalist is the Sea Cadets flagship, a training brig that takes twenty-four cadets to sea for six day voyages. The vessel was designed by Acubens, built during 2014 / 2015 at the Spanish shipyard of Astilleros Gondan. The brig design draws on large faster yachts, offering greater use of space, with better all-round sailing ability and performance. Faster and easier to handle than the previous flagship, it is more economical to run – ideal for providing young people offshore sailing, assisting them to learn greater seamanship and sailing skills. Maritime heritage and nautical training, including leadership and teamwork run deep in the charity’s ethos and culture. As the flagship of Sea Cadets, TS Royalist continues to play a pivotal part in this. For many young people, a voyage is a life changing experience, leaving them with a profound sense of achievement, self-worth and the confidence to take on the challenges of adult life.


Jacobite Maverick – Thursday 7th June A new £2.4 million boat called into Bangor Marina during her maiden voyage to Loch Ness in preparation for welcoming thousands of visitors. Cruise tour operator Loch Ness by Jacobite welcomed the new addition, Jacobite Maverick, to its fleet. The bespoke 20-metre catamaran has been built to an eco-friendly lightweight design and will carry up to 200 passengers on sailings between Dochgarroch, the Clansman Harbour and Urquhart Castle. It brings the fleet up to four and follows record-breaking visitor numbers to the world-famous loch in 2017 which also saw a record year for recorded Nessie sightings.


1.3 Fuel During the past quarter 78222 lts of Marine Grade Gas Oil (MGO) and 11100 lts of Petrol were dispensed. A decrease of 35655 lts in Marine Grade Gas Oil this quarter can be attributed to the departure of the crew transfer vessel Enterprise. This commercial vessel operated from Bangor Harbour during 2017 and consumed large quantities of diesel while transferring crew from Bangor to an Italian cable lying vessel which was operating in the North Channel. The increase of 4353 lts in Petrol this quarter can be attributed to deliveries made to fishing vessel Lilly Hanna. Arrangements with HMRC allow Quay Marinas to supply fuel to named commercial vessel operating directly from Bangor Harbour at a commercial rate less fuel duty. For deliveries of Petrol there is a saving of £0.57 per litre Uncertainty around oil supply – There is a risk of a supply gap in the global oil market in the short-

term. Output from Iran is likely to be impacted by the US decision to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal.

Furthermore, Venezuela poses another supply risk, with workforce, infrastructure, hyperinflation

and debt problems persisting. In order to meet steadily rising global demand, larger oil exporters

such as Saudi Arabia may increase production to plug the gap, or alternatively the potential

contraction in supply could lead to a spike in the oil price.


1.4 Harbour. Ten fishing vessels have entered into the annual berthing and landing contracts for this year. Three of these vessels are small boats using the harbour pontoon. At this stage, 18.9% of annual target has been achieved.

1.5 Miscellaneous Income is £1.3k above target 2.0 OVERHEADS Overheads are £764 below target at this time. 3.0 ACCOUNTS Accounts are in order at this time 4.0 DEBTORS At the end of the quarter, three-month debt was £4.8k


5.0 PERSONNEL All team members are working well and customer comments on the standard of service and the maintenance of facilities continue to remain positive. During the past quarter, we have worked in partnership with Intern Europe to offer two young men from northern Italy a five-week work placement. Andrea De Tullio and Leonardo Terreni both students in their fourth year at Livorno Nautical Technical Institute joined our team on Wednesday 30th May. During their stay we shared our experiences and knowledge of logistics, navigation, mechanics, and marina administration.

During a BBQ lunch we introduced Andrea and Leonardo to N.Ireland’s favourite sauce HP tomato ketchup


6.0 PORT MARINE SAFETY CODE The ‘Port Marine Safety Code’ sets out a national standard for every aspect of port marine safety. Its

aim is to enhance safety for everyone who uses or works in the port marine environment. It applies

to all harbour authorities and other marine facilities, berths and terminals in the UK.

Under the Safety Management System (SMS) the following incidents were recorded during the past

quarter.

357 Report of a scooter (value £500) taken from a teenage boy by a young woman and thrown

into the harbour.

358 Oil pollution incident, report of spill from Fishing Vessel Marina Lena. Incident no 5/18 0051

& MCA 009 072. Master informed that bunkering protocol applied to tank to tank transfer.

359 Report of a boat hook stolen

360 Report of incorrect fuel being dispensed – boat owners mistake.

361 Report of damage to an emergency pillar

362 F/V Achilles cast adrift at 0245 hrs, secured and retied by BM David Reid, SBM Tommy Burns

& HM Kevin Baird

363 First aid given to elderly gentleman who fell on Bridge Street.

364 Report of yacht club rescue RIB’s being operated in an unsafe manner. Both coxswains

reprimanded.

365 Report of vessel collision.

366 Report of vessel transiting marina / harbour entrance at speed.

367 Person recovered from water by PSNI. Person taken into police care.

368 Report of anti-social behaviour on the Eisenhower Pier, group of 20 youths moved on by

PSNI – incident number 1145 25/5/18

369 Report of vessel collision – vessel collided with 4 other vessels.

370 First aid given to dog owner who tripped over long lead.

371 Report of anti-social behaviour on the Eisenhower Pier, group of 20 youths moved on by

PSNI – incident number 1291 07/6/18

372 First aid given to boat owner, taken to hospital for stitching.

373 Report of yacht going the wrong way around a starboard lateral marker post.

374 Report of yacht going the wrong way around a starboard lateral marker post.

375 Report of boatowner injuring knee on a raised nail. First aid given.


Port Marine Safety Code - SMS – KPI’s

Incidents Ashore: 6

Incidents Afloat: 13

Total Incident: 19

Navigational Incidents: 7

Vessel collisions 2

Vessel adrift 1

Vessels used in unsafe manner 1

Vessels not complying with COLREGS 2

Vessel not comply with speed restrictions 1

Notable Incident

Fishing Vessel Achilles (LOA 21 metres) was cast adrift at 0245 hrs on 2nd May 2018 by persons

unkown. Duty Berthing Master David Reid was quickly on the scene and alerted Tommy Burns and

Kevin Baird to assist with securing the vessel alongside. No damage was caused to the vessel.


Fishing Vessel Achilles

Assault on the Eisenhower Pier – Friday 20th April - Image BBC


Antisocial behaviour on and around the marina and harbour estate remains a concern and there

have been numerous incidents which have had to be dealt with by the marina team and PSNI. By

way of example one of the most serious incidents was reported as follows.

The following report was broadcast by the BBC on 25th April 2018

A 16-year-old girl was left with serious head and facial injuries on Bangor pier as a result of a

"sustained and vicious assault", a court has heard.

Footage of the incident was widely shared on social media.

Cora Campbell, 18, of English Street, Downpatrick, has been charged with causing grievous bodily

harm (GBH) after last Friday's attack.

She admits assault occasioning actual bodily harm, but denies causing GBH.

Ms Campbell remained in custody after the court adjourned.

Her bail application will be heard at a later date.

Two other teenagers, a 16-year-old girl and a 17-year-old boy, also remain in custody.

A fourth person has been interviewed and bailed.

'Red mist'

The High Court in Belfast heard that police believe Ms Campbell lured the victim to Bangor Marina

before she and another of the defendants confronted her.

The court was told the victim gave an account of the assault, and felt at one point as if she was

choking when a male poured alcohol over her face.

The victim has since had an X-ray and CT scan at the Ulster Hospital, and did not suffer any fractures.

The court was told Ms Campbell said she had consumed vodka on the evening of the assault and saw

"a red mist".

She has admitted to punching, kicking and slamming the victim's head off the ground, but believes

she did not "cause a lot of damage".

The court was told the police believe she is the main instigator in the case.

Defence for Cora Campbell told the court: "These people know each other very well, they've been in

fights many times."

The court was also told the victim has "a substantial criminal record".

7.0 MAINTENANCE ISSSUE

Accelerated Low Water Corrosion Accelerated low water corrosion of steel piling in harbours in the UK, Europe and elsewhere has been shown recently to be the result primarily of water pollution. Elevated levels of dissolved inorganic nitrogen in sea and brackish waters are responsible for microbiologically influenced corrosion of steel piling below the low water tide level.


Although corrosion is usually a predictable and manageable phenomenon, it is now evident that certain conditions can lead to corrosion rates far in excess of normal. A typical corrosion rate for steel in a marine environment could be regarded as 0.1mm to 0.5mm per year. However, in cases of accelerated corrosion, rates of 1mm per year or even higher have been reported, clearly anything that will eat through a 5mm plate in 5 years has to be taken seriously. Unfortunately during a recent site safety we observed a pile with an orange coloured rust mark below the low water mark. Deep orange rust marks are an indicator of ALWC - Accelerated Low Water Corrosion. During a Spring Low tide i.e. the lowest tides of the year, we investigated further by cleaning the area. When the seaweed and barnacles were removed we observed that a hole was developing within the pile. At present we believe this to an isolated case of ALWC however it would be prudent to arrange a dive inspection of all piles. Note – the cathodic inspection dive conducted earlier on this year did not highlight or identify ALWC. There are a number of stabilising solutions available, probably the easiest being to plug the hole with a resin patch and to fill the pile with reinforced bar and high Newton concrete.


8.0 PROMOTION & EVENTS During the past three months there have been a number of notable events held under the RYA Activie Marina Banner Sea Safety Day On Saturday 21st April, Quay Marinas -Bangor Marina organised a Sea Safety Day in partnership with the RNLI, Belfast Coastguards and Lagan Search and Rescue. The morning started with a Manx Kipper and Toast breakfast hosted by Quay Marinas. The underlying purpose of this event was to demonstrate how to correctly use our onsite water safety equipment in an emergency situation. The demonstrations and practice sessions were great fun and will now enable customers to confidently use the water safety equipment in the event of an emergency.

Over 12kgs of world famous Devereau Kippers were cooked on the BBQ by Marina Manager Kevin

Baird for hungry boat owners.


Peter Bullick from the RNLI checked over 80 lifejackets at the Lifejacket Clinic. The modern lifejacket, unlike its foam filled predecessor, is inflated by a gas cylinder, which is activated either manually or automatically. The mechanism used to initiate the inflation process requires inspection on a regular basis and, if it is found to be corroded, damaged or out of date, it should be replaced immediately. Unfortunately, many lifejacket owners seem to be unaware of how to look after their lifejackets to ensure they function properly. Worryingly, a number of lifejackets were found to be defective and 5 would not have inflated in an emergency.


Sea Bangor Maritime Festival

Quay Marinas – Bangor Marina were delighted to help facilitate and to assist with the organisation

of this event. We were pleased to sponsor the Bangor Rowing Challenge race which was won by a

team from the Council.

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Bangor Rowing Challenge winners


Drawing / Painting wall proved extremely popular with children

Tented village erected on the harbour carpark


The Big Whale on the Long Hole

Eisenhower Pier


‘Try a Row’ with the Donaghadee coastal rowing group

‘Try Canoeing’ with the Belfast Kayak Club


Manoeuvring Tall Ship Kaskelot


Captain Brian Meharg at the helm of Earl of Pembroke


Quay Marinas support Ards and North Down Beach Cleaners

A report in 2016 warned that our seas are being used as the world's rubbish bin, and there may be

more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050. It’s sobering to think that each foot of our coastline

contains on average the equivalent of five shopping bags full of plastic.

We are happy to support our local beach cleaning group and have supplied them litter pickers and

bag labels. We will continue to support this group have placed orders for additional litter collecting

equipment including marine dive bags and a sharps box.

Not only do we support this initiative, we actively play our part to remove rubbish from our waters.

Removing rubbish from the water and stone revetment.


Elephant Bike Hire at Bangor Marina

We have initially purchased four ‘Elephant Bikes’ to test the bike rental market with visiting marina

customers. Our vision going forward is for the marina building to act as a central hub to offer bike

rental to everyone.

The cost of hiring an ‘Elephant’. - £10 per day, £6 per half day.

Our ex-postal bikes are real workhorses and they have a fantastic backstory.

Our herd of Elephant Bikes support the Krizevac Project (a UK-registered charity), for every bike

purchased a bike has been donate to Africa, where owning a bike can mean securing work,

generating an income, or getting an invaluable education.

How the Elephant Bike was born.

The Fence Wardens of Liwonde National Park, Malawi, were delighted with their ex-postal bikes and

their new-found ability to complete 30-mile patrols of the rhino fencing in record time. But it turns

out that elephants don’t like red and the Wardens were at danger of being chased. Desperate to

solve this problem, the Wardens tried out some re-sprayed green bikes. Remarkably, the elephants

no longer gave chase… and the first Elephant Bikes were born.

If any of the Councillors would be interested in taking an ‘Elephant’ for a cycle please let me know.

Further info on the ‘Elephant Bike’ can be found at https://elephantbike.co.uk/

https://elephantbike.co.uk/


Float to Live

The Respect the Water campaign is now in its fifth year and the RNLI is urging anyone who finds

themselves in trouble in cold water to follow the FLOAT message and stay calm and ‘float’ on your

back for a short time to regain control of your breathing.

The RNLI is calling on the public to practice the ‘float’ survival skill – a simple skill that could mean

the difference between life and death. This skill was demonstrated at Bangor Marina by Aaron

Vance, the close friend of a County Down man who died from drowning while on holiday in Portugal

last year.

The family of 29-year-old William Coates from Newtownards who died suddenly in a swimming pool

last May, are supporting this year’s Respect the Water campaign. Billy and Brenda Coates hope that

by sharing their personal story of losing a loved one to drowning, that people will hear the ‘Float’

message and share the RNLI’s lifesaving knowledge with others.


The Big Wheel comes to Town

The Bangor Ferris Wheel opened on 1st June and has provided many with spectacular views of

Bangor Marina and Town


No drone required.


9.0 SUMMARY

As we move into the summer, we continue to offer boat owners the very best standards of service

and we strive to exceed customer expectations. We are committed to upholding Bangor Marinas

reputation as Ireland’s premier maritime destination. My team and I are passionate about

promoting our Borough to resident and visitor berth holders.

We endeavour to proactively maintain the facilities at Bangor Marina to the very highest standard.

However, the infrastructure at Bangor is aging and almost 30 years old, over that time wooden

pontoons start to rot, galvanised metal corrodes in a marine environment, supporting piles become

more susceptible to ALWC, the plastic lined pontoon floats disintegrate and crack after being subject

to 30 years of UV light. Even though the wash rooms are spotlessly clean, communal shower and

changing areas are not acceptable in today’s modern society.

As we look forward to providing a gateway for marine tourism into the borough and a facility of

excellence for residents for the next 30 years, the Council must seriously consider investing in the

future of Bangor Marina and Harbour.

Kevin Baird – Marina Manager & Harbour Master (Bangor) June 2018

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ITEM 7









File Reference ED 67

Legislation



Subject Crafted Gift Fair - 2018

Attachments Background The ITRDS has identified the creative industries as a significant sector of our local economy and the need to promote and support it. Support can be provided by the Economic Development section through its internationalisation budget aimed at increasing business visibility, sales (both direct and trade), market exploration as well as export development potential. The Section has identified an opportunity for Ards and North Down Borough Council to take a corporate stand at the Crafted Gift Fair in Dublin on 5th- 9th December 2018 and select between 6 and 12 creative companies to exhibit, sale and represent the Council area during this event. The Crafted Gift fair features a display of products like ceramic, jewelry, digital, photo, fibre, metalwork, sculptures, glass, mixed media, wood, graphics, painting and much more. Many independent Creative Businesses, Craft Designer Maker businesses and other larger commercial businesses will be attending the fair with an estimated 500 plus businesses being represented across the duration of the event (5th to 9th

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December). The fair is open to both the public and to trade visitors and anticipated visitor figures are estimated to be between 20,000 - 50,000. Applications will be received from Ards and North Down Borough professional designer/makers who would like to be considered to attend the Crafted Gift Fair. The successful applicants will be supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council through a programme of events culminating in the fair itself. The programme is designed to assist Creative Businesses and Craft designer-makers to attend a trade / retail fair to sell directly to customers as well as explore export potential for international Markets. Objectives of the Programme • Develop export capacity and support business growth within the creative sector • Develop new markets and support additional sales for designer-makers • Profile the Creative economy in the Ards and North Down Borough. Targets

The process of recruiting designer makers will begin in October 2018 with all attendees informed by the start of November. All training will be delivered in November. The Fair itself will run from 5th – 9th December, with an Economic Development and a

Key Activity Objective & Output Recruitment of attendees – Craft Designer Makers 6 at anyone given time over the 4 days of the fair

Recruit 6 -12 (Maximum) Craft Designer makers to attend the fair across the 4 days.

To generate sales and identify potential retail outlets for sales at an international Gift/Craft Fair

• To meet an agreed sales target over the duration of their time exhibiting

• Grow customer base (Specific targets will be agreed per Craft Designer Maker during Training)

• Identify 2 new retail outlets within 6 months of the event taking place

Recruit trainers/facilitators to deliver Exhibitor Training

Deliver 3 training sessions for the group of Craft Designer Makers in preparation for the fair on marketing, product pricing for an international market and stand display.

Invite the Tourism Section to nominate a member of staff to attend the event and market the AND Borough during the event

Tourism officer to promote the Ards and North Down Borough with Fair visitors.

Evaluation An Evaluation will be carried out directly after the event and again 6 months after the event to ensure targets have been met.

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Tourism representative anticipated to be on site to set up the stand and support businesses during the event. Costs The budget anticipated for the development and delivery of the Programme is £9,800 and comes from the existing internationalisation budget. It is expected that Ards and North Down Borough Council will pay for the following:

£6509.48 (€7318.50) inc VAT Stand Costs (6 spaces per

day over 5 days)

£700 Banner, stand props and

marketing

£1500 Fee for Trainer x 3 sessions

£1090.52 Staff Costs (Including cost of

tourism staff) and Expenses

£9,800 Total Costs Exhibitors recruited under this programme will be expected to pay for their own travel, accommodation, insurance and subsistence costs and to make their own arrangements.

RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council approve attendance at the Crafted Gift Fair and authorises one Tourism Officer and one Economic Development Officer to attend in a supporting capacity.

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ITEM 8







Head of Regeneration


File Reference REG60

Legislation

Section 75 Compliant Yes ☐ No ☐ Other ☒


Subject Promotion of Free Wi-Fi in 5 Towns

Attachments None

Further to the report of 23rd March 2018 which detailed usage of the free Wi-Fi in the 5 Towns, a promotional campaign has been planned to raise public awareness of the service. The promotional campaign will be evaluated to determine if there has been any increase in uptake. It has been necessary to address a number of issues with the equipment to ensure the Wi-Fi will be working correctly while the promotional campaign is underway. Discussions have taken place with the 5 Chambers of Trade in preparation for the awareness campaign and they have provided valuable feedback. The Regeneration Officer has also visited a number of traders to gather feedback. It is proposed to run a campaign during November, December 2018 & January 2019 as follows:

• November - highlight that free Wi-Fi is available in the 5 Towns in the Borough Magazine

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• November & December 2018 - distribution to traders throughout the 5 towns of window stickers (advertising free town Wi-Fi) and flyers (showing the coverage areas)

• November, December & January - Council and 5 Chamber’s promote free Wi-Fi is available through social media.

The KPI, usage i.e. number of sessions, can be monitored, before, during and after the campaign to evaluate impact.

RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council proceeds with the above campaign and a further report is presented after this has been evaluated.

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ITEM 9









File Reference REG 66

Legislation



Subject Public Realm Scheme - Portaferry

Attachments None Members will be aware that one of the targets agreed for the Department this year is to commence the design stage of a public realm scheme for Portaferry, in conjunction with the Department for Communities (DfC). This phase of the scheme is led and funded by the Council and a budget has been allocated for this. It is only when the scheme is agreed and planning permission and statutory consents have been obtained, will DfC contribute by investing in the capital works. DfC has confirmed that it is normal procedure that a Steering Committee be formed. This should include elected members and social partners. The role of the Committee is to agree the public realm area and the nature of the scheme to be delivered. This Committee will be assisted by Council officers and DfC officials. This is used to demonstrate that there is a collaborative approach to the design and decision making around the project. When the previous five public realm schemes were undertaken the various Town Steering Groups were used as the Steering Committees, as they comprised of town

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elected members and social partners from that town. This is different in Portaferry as the elected members are for the DEA of the Ards Peninsula, which includes Portaferry. In light of this it is believed that the Steering Committee should consist of the six elected members for the Ards Peninsula DEA. At present there is a Village Plan Group, which is made up of representatives from a number of organisations in Portaferry. This Group has been proactive and has worked well in aiding the delivery of projects identified in the village plan. In light of this it is believed that six social partners, from different interest groups (community, regeneration, traders), should be selected to sit on the Steering Committee. The Council should now also appoint a consultant to assist with the design, undertake all the statutory agency’s consultations and obtain planning permission for the agreed scheme. Also, once confirmation from DfC that funding is available, undertake the tender process to appoint a contractor and then manage the contract to completion.

RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Council agrees the process as set out above.

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ITEM 10










Legislation N/A



Subject Village Renewal Schemes - Update

Attachments Appendix A Concept Design for Ballywalter Lime Kilns Appendix B Concept Design for Carrowdore Environmental Improvement Scheme Appendix C Concept Design for the Green Kircubbin Appendix D Concept Design for the Lagoon Area, Millisle Appendix E Concept Design for Ballyhalbert Environmental Improvement Scheme

Background As previously reported, a number of village renewal projects have been identified in the Village Action Plans, across the Borough. The Rural Development Programme (RDP) provides funding support for village renewal projects as identified within integrated village plans. In April 2018, AECOM was commissioned to develop projects that required concept design, community consultation and drawings to planning permission stage. The costs associated with progressing these projects to

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this stage were funded through a technical support grant from the RDP and match funding from the Council. At present the remaining grant budget available under the RDP Village Renewal Scheme is £731,552.36 and considering the cost of individual schemes, it will not be possible to fund a capital scheme in each village using this fund. However, it is felt that it is important that at least a number of the schemes identified below are progressed to planning stage, so that the Council is in a stronger position to avail of funding opportunities as and when they become available. It is important to note that the Village Renewal Scheme capital fund requires a number of pre-requisites to be in place prior to an application being submitted. This includes a business plan, the full project procurement and planning permission being granted (if required). In order to progress schemes to construction stage to apply for capital funding, additional costs must be incurred, which include topographical surveys, detailed specifications and drawings for procurement and planning fees, which are outside of the current budget. This expenditure is necessary to ensure that the full allocation available under the Rural Development Programme is maximised to the benefit of rural communities. Update Ballywalter Lime Kilns AECOM and Council Officers have been working closely to define the concept design for the Lime Kilns (refer to Appendix A). A stakeholder and public consultation process has been completed and 12 written responses received. The feedback from the consultation has been reflected in the final design. As part of the original project brief, restoring the Lime Kilns was to be considered. However, the brief has evolved to include improving the area around the Kilns. Some of the consultees would like to see the Kilns fully restored as a historical feature. The works proposed do not prevent the possible restoration of a Lime Kilns in the future. This programme of works has taken account of the need for stonework and bedding repairs under the guidance of a conservation specialist. Project Summary Project A – Car park to include a new lay-by parking area and footpath layout - £21,955

Project B – Seaside area to include new seating, paving and picnic areas, tree and shrub planting and for the Lime Kiln: New glass balustrade, seating and boardwalk - £138,859

Project C – Interpretation - £ 45,920

Project D - Restoration of Lime Kiln - £15,000

The total project budget is circa £221,734 and it is estimated that £17,000 is required to progress this project to construction stage.

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This is an additional project for Ballywalter Village, which may be eligible for support under the Coastal Communities Fund which is due to open late 2018. It is important to remember that an application has been successful to the Village Renewal Scheme for Ballywalter Promenade works. Recommendation It is recommended that £17,000 is allocated to progress the Lime Kilns project to construction stage and that an initial expression of interest is submitted to the Coastal Communities Fund. Carrowdore Environmental Improvement Scheme AECOM and Council Officers have been working closely to define the concept design for the Main Street, Carrowdore (Refer to Appendix B). A stakeholder and public consultation process has been completed and 4 written responses received. The feedback from the consultation process was positive with the proposed seasonal bulb planting and trees being greatly welcomed. It was generally felt that proposals presented would provide a safer and brighter village, the bus stop and seating would be a welcomed addition. Project Summary Project A – Carrowdore 100 historical panels - £ 38,998 - (privately owned land, separate scheme)

Project B – Improvements at shop / petrol station - £ 5,117 (privately owned land, separate scheme)

Project C – Tree Planting - £ 140,187 (works to be undertaken by NIHE as separate scheme)

Project D – Seating Area - £24,859

Project E – Improve Area at Community Centre & Play Area - £40,939

Project F – Bus Stop - £14,118

The total project budget eligible for RDP is estimated at £79,916, which is a combination of Projects D, E and F. It is estimated that £8,000 is required to facilitate this project to construction stage. Recommendation It is recommended that £8,000 is allocated to progress this project to construction stage and that pre-requisites are progressed for a full capital application to be submitted to the RDP. Warren Carpark, Cloughey Work has continued to define the concept design for The Warren Carpark, Cloughey. A stakeholder and public consultation process has been completed, with 31 written responses received. The feedback from the consultation exercise was mixed, as there were concerns that the removal of the wall would make the area unsafe, as

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children / dogs would run out onto the road. The consultant has not reworked the design at this stage. Any proposal is heavily reliant on central government departments and utility providers making a significant contribution to enable the successful delivery of this scheme. These stakeholders were consulted as part of the consultation process and we are awaiting feedback. Project Summary Project A – Wall enhancement & resurface footpath with landscaping - £ 92,000 (DFI Roads may contribute to a certain portion of this for footpath works)

Project B –Street furniture - £27,000

Project C – Street Lighting - £68,000 (reliant on DFI Roads Street Lighting)

Project D – Undergrounding of Overhead Lines (approx. estimate) - £50,000 (reliant on NIE Networks)

The total budget is estimated at £119,000 to include projects A and B. Due to the reliance on central government departments contributing to this scheme for projects C and D, it may not be progressed as an application to the Rural Development Programme’s capital fund at this stage. Officers will continue to work with the Village Steering Group and to gain commitment from these departments and target other funding sources as and when they become available. Recommendation It is recommended that £11,900 is allocated to progress projects A and B, to construction stage and pre-requisites are progressed for a full capital application. However, a full capital application will be subject to the other government departments contributing to the scheme in terms street light and underground of overhead lines. The Green, Kircubbin AECOM and Council Officers have been working closely to define the concept design for the Green, Kircubbin (Refer to Appendix C). A stakeholder and public consultation process has been completed and 8 written responses have been received. The feedback from the consultation highlighted that parking provision needs to be closer to the Main Street at the front of the site, to make parking more obvious to the passing traffic, otherwise the proposed scheme is potentially a waste of money. The Planning Section has confirmed that if the same amount of green space is relocated to back of the site, then this may be possible. However, this substantial change to the scheme will in occur additional design costs and increase the value of the scheme as the entire project would need to be completed to adhere to possible planning conditions.

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Recommendation It is recommended that £10,000 is allocated to progress the re design of the scheme and funding pre-requisites. However, a full capital application to RDP will then be subject to scheme costs and funds still being available. Lagoon Area, Millisle AECOM and Council Officers have been working closely to define the concept design for the Lagoon Area, Millisle (refer to Appendix D). A stakeholder and public consultation process has been completed, with 47 written responses received. The feedback from the consultation was very positive and most of the proposals were welcomed. There were some concerns over how the proposed beach huts would be managed, therefore as and when this project is being progressed, further consideration needs to be given. Project Summary Project A – Removing Paddling Pool - £184,223

Project B – Promenade including Street Lighting - £476,219

Project C – Pier & Beach Huts - £562,663

Project D – Lagoon Walkway Causeway - £245,784

The total scheme is estimated at £1,785,768. The substantial costs mean it is not feasible to consider the entire project, so a phased approach to delivery is necessary.

As agreed by the Committee, AECOM has been commissioned to develop a Masterplan for the Beech Park area. This will mean that the entire Lagoon and Beach Park area will be redesigned, which can be used for future development. Therefore, it is important to await the outcome of this before further resources are invested so as to then progress a phase to construction stage.

Recommendation It is recommended that Officers continue to progress the second masterplan for the Beach Park and then to identify a project that can be advanced to a full capital application to RDP, subject to scheme costs and available funds. Ballyhalbert Environmental Improvement Scheme Work has been ongoing to define the concept design for the High Street, Ballyhalbert (refer to Appendix E). A stakeholder and public consultation process has been completed and 6 written responses were received. The main concern from the consultation was regarding traffic congestion on High Street. The public and committee felt that the proposals presented did not meet the needs of the Village. Outside of this feasibility study site, the biggest concern is the absence of a footpath along the Coast Road from the new housing developments at St. Andrews Point to the High Street. The overall feedback was that the proposals only improved the aesthetics and did not consider the problem of congestion. Therefore, the concept

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design scheme attached cannot be progressed at this time under the Rural Development Programme as there is no community buy-in to a specific project. It is recommended that the following is considered: • Facilitate further meetings with DfI / Community Group to establish the feasibility

of providing a footpath along the coast road on the grounds of public safety.

• Review policy on domestic bins and the impact this has on properties with no rear access.

• Consult further with the business owners regarding longer term plans for development of the site, which could include more car parking. The shop and carryout facility adjacent to the carpark are the life blood of the village and act as the reason for coming to Ballyhalbert at a local level. Its continued success within the High Street setting is essential to keep the village alive.

Recommendation It is recommended that Officers will continue to work with the Village Steering Group to develop projects from the Village Action Plan, which will address concerns and target other funding sources. Portaferry Heritage Trail Scheme AECOM commissioned Tandem to carry out an audit on Portaferry’s current walking trails and advise on how these could be enhanced and improved. Tandem recommend retaining the current panels which complement the Portaferry Heritage Trail. These panels should now be considered as discovery points. They should be enhanced to include a reference to app/website and a children’s passport trail. The full recommendations from this audit will be presented at a public meeting in September for consideration and feedback. Recommendation It is recommended that £6,000 is allocated to progress to construction stage and the pre-requisites are progressed for a full capital application to be submitted the RDP.

RECOMMENDATION In summary, the following additional resource of £52,900 is recommended to progress projects to construction stage:

- £17,000 is allocated to progress this project to construction stage and that an initial expression of interest is submitted to the Coastal Communities Fund for the Lime Kilns.

- £8,000 is allocated to progress Carrowdore Environmental Improvement Works to construction stage and that pre-requisites are progressed for a full capital application to be submitted the RDP.

- £11,900 is allocated to progress Cloughey Warren Carpark to construction stage and that pre-requisites are progressed for a full capital application. However, a full capital application will be subject to the other government

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departments contributing to the scheme in terms street light and underground of overhead lines.

- £10,000 is allocated to progress the re design of the Kircubbin Green scheme and pre-requisites. However, a full capital application will be subject to scheme costs and available funds.

- £6,000 is allocated to progress Portaferry Heritage Trail to construction stage and the pre-requisites are progressed for a full capital application to be submitted the RDP

If agreed these costs can be met from the Regeneration Unit budget. In addition, it is recommended that Officers will present a further report to the Committee following the consultation process for Millisle Beach Park and Kircubbin Green.

Playground

Flat Rock

Shingle

Toilet

S P

R I

N G

V A

L E

R

O A

D

8

N

LP

LP

LP

TIMBER CLADEXISTING TOILETBLOCK

EXISTING WALL REMOVED,NEW LAY-BY & ASPHALTFOOTPATH.LAMP POST RELOCATED

PC PAVING AREA WITH2 No. PICNIC TABLES

RETAINED PLAYAREA ACCESS

LP

GLASS BALUSTRADE

LARGE INFO PANEL

BOARDWALK & SEATING AREA

REGRADED ASPHALT PATHWAY

8 No. PINUS PINESTER MARITIMA

PC PAVING AREA

SEATS

PROPOSED LAYOUTScale 1:250

PINUS MARITIMA PROPOSED TIMBER CLAD TOILET BLOCK

GLASS BALUSTRADE AT LOOKOUT INTERPRETATION PANELS IN ARCH OF LIME KILN.FIXINGS TO BE APPROVED BY CONSERVATION ARCHITECT

EXISTING TOILET BLOCK

SEAT

BOARDWALK

PROJECT A - Car Park· NEW LAY-BY PARKING AREA - 8 no. SPACES· EXISTING WALL TO BE REMOVED· NEW ASPHALT FOOTPATH LAYOUT· 1 no. LAMP POST RELOCATED

PROJECT B - Seaside Area· NEW RE-GRADED ASPHALT PATH TO SEA FRONT· NEW SEATING AREAS· NEW PAVING AND PICNIC AREA· NEW SHRUB AND TREE PLANTING· CLADDING TO TOILET BLOCK· LIME KILN: NEW GLASS BALAUSTRADE, SEATING &

BOARDWALK

Drawing Number

60571569-ACM-P1-03-SK-LA-GA- 60002-P1

AECOM10th Floor,The Clarence Street West Building2 Clarence Street WestBelfast, BT2 7GPwww.aecom.comBALLYWALTER LIME KILNS June 2018 - Scale 1:250

PROJECT C - Interpretation· LIME KILN: NEW INTERPRETATION PANELS & INFO

PANEL

This seaside destination popular for an awardwinning beach and a picturesque harbour, willbenefit from the improvement of the lime kilnarea, providing a safe on-street parking lay-by,toilet block facelift, picnic area, safe walkwaysand interpretation signs.

APPENDIX Kilns Lime Ballywalter - A

1

114

2

12

ESS

TCB

ASHVALE PAR

K

J O H

N S T O

N P A R

K

N E W

R O

A D

Castle Cottage Close

CASTLE PLAC

E

M A I N S T R E E T

CH

UR

CH

RO

AD

43 35

2

97

77

1

63

1 2

59

73

61

30

1

105

3 1

68a

3

47

81

71

95

65

114

31 21

84

53

38

103

2

51

8 2

70

68

106

2

2

89

8

52

100

1

2

N

CASTLE M

EADO

WS D

EIVE

M A I N S T R E E T

Play Area

Comm

unity

Centre

TP

TP

TP TP

TP

TP

TP

TP

TP

TP

TPTP

Petrol Station

Shop

TP

BUSSTOP

TP

TP

BUSSTOP

TP

UNDERGROUND SERVICES

HEDGE & TREEPLANTING WITHBEECH HEDGEBLOCKS (2COLOURS)

NEW BUS SHELTER, BUS KERB& PC PAVING AREA

UNDERGROUNDSERVICES

TREE REMOVED,NEW TREE PLANTING WITH WITHBEECH HEDGE BLOCKS (2 COLOURS)

2m HIGH CARROWDORE 100HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHICALUMINIUM COMPOSITEPANELS TO BE ATTACHED TOEXISTING PALISADE FENCING.

TREE PLANTING WITHTREE GRILLE

TREE PLANTINGWITH PURPLE BEECH BLOCK.REMOVE EXISTING TREE

TREE PLANTINGWITH PURPLE BEECH BLOCK.REMOVE EXISTING TREE

NEW EDGING, TREE PLANTINGWITH PURPLE BEECH BLOCKAND GRASS. REMOVE PCBLOCK PAVING & TREE

TREE PLANTINGWITH TREE GRILLE

HEDGE

1m WIDE NEW HEDGE &TREE PLANTINGNEW CAR PARKING WHITEMARKING. SAME NUMBEROF PARKING SPACES

TREE RETAINED

TREE PLANTINGWITH PURPLE BEECH BLOCK.REMOVE EXISTING TREES

UNDERGROUNDSERVICES

TREE PLANTINGWITH PURPLE BEECH BLOCK.REMOVE EXISTING TREES

BUFF COLOURINGSURFACE TO EXISTINGASPHALT CAR PARK

TREE PLANTING WITHTREE GRILLE

PC PAVING AREA WITH 2 No. SEATS,TREE PLANTING & HEDGE

HEDGE& GRASS

ART FEATURE, 2 No. SEATS,PC PAVING AREA


PROJECT A - Carrowdore 100 Historical Panels· HISTORICAL INTERPRETATION PANELS ADDED TO EXISTING FENCE· GRASS VERGE

PROJECT B - Improvementsat Shop / Petrol Station· NEW WHITE MARKING WITH SAME

PARKING SPACES· HEDGE AND TREE PLANTING

PROJECT C - Tree Planting· STREET LINED TREE PLANTING /

BULBS· UNDERGROUND SERVICES

PROJECT D -Seating Area· NEW SEATING AREA· NEW TREE PLANTING

AND RESURFACING

PROJECT E - ImproveArea at Community Centreand Play Area· REMOVE PLANTING AT GREEN

SPACE· REPLACE WITH SCULPTURE /

ART FEATURE· NEW TREE PLANTING· HEDGE PLANTING TO SCREEN

PLAY AREA

PROJECT F - Bus Stop· BUS STOP TO BE PROVIDED

OPPOSITE EXISTING BUS STOP

The Streetscape Improvements aim to provide character tothe village by tree and hedge planting, additional seating,public art and seasonal colour through bulb planting.

Drawing Number

60571569-ACM-P1-02-SK-LA-GA- 60002-P0

AECOM10th Floor,The Clarence Street West Building2 Clarence Street WestBelfast, BT2 7GPwww.aecom.comCARROWDORE STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS June 2018 - Scale 1:625

APPENDIX Carrowdoree - B

Kircubbin Presb Ch

P

Manse

Hall TCB

Ppg Sta

PH

Slop

ing

M A I N S T R E E T

THE GREEN 2a

16

22

24

30

34

36

15

25

27

33

35 to

41

43a

2

4 1

C H U

R C

H A

V E N U

E

N

LP

LP

TP

INCREASEDGREENSPACE

NEW PC PAVED PATH,GRASS, SEATING &PLANTING AREAS

NEW BOUNDARYTREATMENT

PC PAVING AREATCB RETAINEDNEW SIGNAGE /INFORMATION BOARD

FACADE IMPROVEMENT

IMPROVED ORGANISED CARPARKING - 48 no. spaces

NEW BOUNDARYTREATMENT

LC

LC

LC

LC

ASPHALT PATH

NEW LIGHTINGSCHEME

Proposed Car Park

48 spaces

LC

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P

Manse

Hall TCB

Ppg Sta

Existing Car Park - 45 no. spaces

THE GREEN

2a

15

25

C H U

R C

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V E N U

E

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LP

LP

LP

LP

TP

LC

LC

LC

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Proposed Car Park

48 spaces

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LC

CAR PARK STREET LIGHTING

DESIGN CONCEPTExisting & Proposed LayoutScale 1:500

FACADE IMPROVEMENT - BEFORE FACADE IMPROVEMENT - AFTERTHE GREEN - HISTORIC MAP 1832-1846 THE GREEN - HISTORIC MAP 1905-1957

SEATING, PAVING, PLANTING SIGNAGE

Drawing Number

60571569-ACM-P1-07-SK-LA-GA- 60002-P2

AECOM10th Floor,The Clarence Street West Building2 Clarence Street WestBelfast, BT2 7GPwww.aecom.comKIRCUBBIN THE GREEN June 2018 - Scale 1:500

BOUNDARY TREATMENT - PLEACHED TREESWELDMESH GATE TO BE REMOVED. PROVIDE NEW GATE TO MATCH CHURCH GATES

PROJECT C - Planting and Seating Area· NEW PAVED AREA AROUND PHONE BOX· NEW SEATING AREA· NEW PLANTING & GRASS AREA / AMENITY OPEN SPACE· NEW LIGHTING SCHEME· NEW BOUNDARY SOFT TREATMENT· EXTENDED FOOTPATH TOWARDS HALL· NEW PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

PROJECT A - Streetscape *· BUILDING FRONTAGES: REVITALIZATION OF

COMMERCIAL PREMISES BY IMPROVING THE EXTERIORAPPEARANCE UNTIL TOWNHOUSES ARE BUILT.

· * PLANNING APPLICATION X/2013/0016/O FOR 13TOWNHOUSES, GRANTED 08-10-2015

An opportunity to increase the relationship ofthe shoreline to Main Street by environmentalimprovements to public space, recovering thehistorical alignment layout of The Green withhard and soft landscaping and at the same timeretaining the integrity of key elements withinthis Area of Townscape Character.

PROJECT B - Car Park / Events Area· NEW CAR PARK LAYOUT WITH IMPROVED TURNING

- 48 no. SPACES· INCREASED GRASS AREA / AMENITY OPEN SPACE· NEW LIGHTING SCHEME· NEW BOUNDARY SOFT TREATMENT· NEW TRADITIONAL STYLE GATES TO HALL


APPENDIX C - Kircubbin reenG the

LC

LC

LC

LC

LC

LC

LC

LC

LC

LC

LC

Lagoon

Maggys Pier

Craig Skellys

RockFlat

Masonry

Sloping

HWM

MT

HWMMT

Rock

Flat

Rock

Flat

RockFlat

Rock

Flat

Flat Rock

Flat Rock

Slipway

Pier

Sluice

Pool

Paddling

Garage

HWM

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HWMMT

LWMMT

LWMMT

HWM

MT

Shingle

Sand &

Sand

Sand

STRAND AVENUE

S H O R E R O

A D a

38a

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3

7 3

20

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4842

32

3030

24

1612

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Slipway

Grass

Grass

NEW STONE WALL

NEW STEPS & RAMP

WIDEN EXISTING PATH TO 4m100mm EXPOSED AGGREGATE CONCRETE

NEW LIGHTS

NEW CONCRETE STEPS,STONE WALL &PEDESTRIAN GUARDRAIL

NEW SITTING WALL WITH STONE COPPINGAND INTEGRATED HARDWOOD SEATS NEW GLASS

WINDPROOF SCREEN

SUN LOUNGERS

SEASONAL PLANTERS

SEAT

SEAT

RAMP

COLOURED CONCRETEINSET IN 2 COLOURS

4 PICNIC TABLES

WIDEN EXISTING PATH TO 4m100mm EXPOSED AGGREGATE CONCRETE

1.5m HIGH PINES IN REGRADEDGRASS AREA

CANOE LAGOONNEW STEPS TO PICNIC TABLES

MOSAIC PANELS TO BE RETAINED

CORTEN STEEL PLANTERWITH GRASS PLANTING &LIGHT FEATURE

BEACH HUTSCHANGING FACILITIESTOILETS

NEW ACCESS FROMCAR PARK

NEW STEPS

SEATSGATES

STEPS

LC

Drawing Number

60571569-ACM-P1-01-SK-LA-GA- 60002-P0

AECOM10th Floor,The Clarence Street West Building2 Clarence Street WestBelfast, BT2 7GPwww.aecom.comMILLISLE LAGOON AREA MASTERPLAN June 2018 - Scale 1:500

PROJECT D - Lagoon Walkway Causeway· WIDEN EXISTING WALKWAY TO 4m· SURFACE: EXPOSED AGGREGATE CONCRETE

PROJECT C - Pier and Beach Huts· NEW ACCESS FROM CAR PARK· COLOURFUL BEACH HUTS INSTALLED· RESURFACED SEATING AREA· SEATING, PLANTERS AND SUN LOUNGERS· LARGE CORTEN STEEL PLANTERS WITH GRASSES

PLANTER AND LIGHT FEATURE· NEW GLASS WINDPROOF SCREEN & DECORATIVE

BALUSTRADE

PROJECT A - Removing Paddling Pool· DEMOLITION OF PADDLING POOL· STRUCTURAL CHECK OF AREA· REINSTATE BEACH - EXTEND TO WALL· STEPS TO ACCESS BEACH

PROJECT B - Promenade· NEW LIGHTING SCHEME· WIDEN EXISTING FOOTPATH - 4m· NEW STEPS TO PICNIC TABLES· 1.5m HIGH PINES IN REGRADED GRASS AREA· NEW SITTING WALL WITH STONE COPING AND

HARDWOOD SEATS

An exciting destination for water sports,walking and family beach fun.It will build on its blue flag status by providingtoilets and changing facilities as well as creatinga unique walk to explore shore life.

APPENDIX - Millisle Area Lagoon - D

Ppg

Playground

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TCB

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Spreads

Centre

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11

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VICTORIA GARDENS

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aPr S

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SEATSPAINT LOW WALL

SEATING WALL

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NEW LIGHTING SCHEME.FOOTPATH TO BE RESURFACED

UNDERGROUND SERVICES (BT).FOOTPATH TO BE RESURFACED

NEW GRASS AREA & TREE PLANTING

FACADE IMPROVEMENT

FACADE IMPROVEMENT

FACADE IMPROVEMENT

CYCLE RACKS & TIMBER SCREEN

IVY PLANTING

STONE PAVING& PLANTER

NEW LAY-BY 2.5m WIDE & NEWFOOTPATH 2m WIDE MINIMUM,TCB TO BE RELOCATED

NEW TREE PLANTING

STONE WALL TOMATCH EXISTING

'EAST' SCULPTURE

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LC

LC

UNDERGROUND SERVICES (BT).FOOTPATH TO BE RESURFACED

NEW PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

NEW PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

FACADE IMPROVEMENT

WINDOW BOXES &HANGING BASKETS

WHEELIE BIN STICKERS

EXISTING

FRONTAGES

PROJECT A - Streetscape· PAINTING SCHEME FOR HOUSE FRONTS· PROVIDE LAY-BY PARKING FOR 7 CARS· UNDERGROUND BT SERVICES· NEW DECORATIVE STREET LIGHTING

SCHEME· WINDOW BOXES, HANGING BASKETS,

WHEELIE BINS· TO CREATE 'BALLYHALBERT IN BLOOM'· RESURFACE FOOTPATHS

PROPOSED

ROWAN TREESSorbus aucuparia 'Fastigiata'

PROJECT B - Coastal· MARKING BALLYHALBERT ON THE COAST ROAD· RESURFACE FOOTPATHS IN CAITHNESS STONE· RECONFIGURE SITTING AREA TO INCLUDE

SCULPTURE, SEATS AND PLANTING· PROVIDE DROPPED KERBS AND TACTILES TO

MAKE CROSSING THE ROAD EASIER· CREATE A SENSE OF ARRIVAL TO THE VILLAGE

PROJECT C - Planting· NEW SEATING OUTSIDE PLAY AREA· TREE PLANTING TO MARK ARRIVAL

AT VILLAGE HEART

STREET LIGHTING

SEATING

CAITHNESS STONECLOSEBY TO EASTERN SCULPTURE

Drawing Number

60571569-ACM-P1-04-SK-LA-GA- 60002-P1

AECOM10th Floor,The Clarence Street West Building2 Clarence Street WestBelfast, BT2 7GPwww.aecom.comBALLYHALBERT STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS June 2018 - Scale 1:500

SCULPTURE EXAMPLE - COASTAL AREA

The aim is to enhance the traditional character of thevillage to promote a sustainable village heart.To create a warm welcome to Ballyhalbert, recognisingthe most easterly point in Ireland closeby.The scheme has been divided into 3 potential projects:Project A - StreetscapeProject B - CoastalProject C - Planting

APPENDIX E

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ITEM 11







Head of Tourism



Legislation n/a

Section 75 Compliant Yes ☐ No ☐ Other ☒


Subject Cross Channel Swim Sign

Attachments At May Council a Notice of Motion was agreed with regards to the installation of a plaque to mark the achievement of Tom Blower becoming the first Briton to swim the North Channel between Donaghadee and Scotland, and the swim being part of the “Oceans Seven” challenge. The Tourism section is progressing this and has established that planning permission is required, whether for a plaque or an interpretive panel. This will have cost and time implications. It will add an additional fee of £189 to the sign cost, which will depend on size and location. It is envisaged this cost would be no more than £500. The proposed content for the sign is largely complete but as the planning timescale is a minimum of eight weeks for small-scale applications, it may be early 2019 before a sign would be in place. Tourism will expedite this if at all possible. The location of the sign is still to be determined, with both the pier and the Commons being investigated for suitability – the latter being the current starting point for the swim.

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RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that Council notes this report.

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ITEM 12







Head of Tourism



Legislation



Subject Ice Cream Sales at Bangor Seafront

Attachments A December 2013 report from the then Director of Development Services, proposing changes to the procurement of ice cream by mobile vendors at sites across North Down, was approved by the legacy North Down Borough Council. One change recommended was the removal of the requirement for a vendor on Bangor Seafront (McKee Clock to Gray’s Hill and the North Breakwater) to allow ice cream sales instead to be provided by rate-paying businesses close to or on the seafront (such as Pickie Fun Park, the Red Berry, Caproni’s and Maud’s). This change arose mainly from complaints by such local businesses when the funfair was in place, resulting in a near constant presence by an ice cream van, with concomitant noise and pollution problems, over a period of many weeks. Since 2014 however there has been some inconsistency in the implementation of this report, in that while Tourism discontinued recruiting ice cream vendors from the seafront, including at Tourism events, the Lands Agreement was not amended to prohibit third party organisations from recruiting ice cream vendors when hiring Bangor Seafront for events. The result has been complaints from mobile ice cream vendors (many of whom are local to the borough) that while they are not permitted to

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sell ice cream on the seafront, they intermittently observe other vendors doing so at third party events. The obvious solution would be to amend the Lands Agreement to exclude third party events from recruiting ice cream vendors for Bangor Seafront. However, since 2014 it has become apparent that the ambience and on-site customer offering at events, including the Council’s own and some which it supports, eg those provided as part of the Open House Festival, would benefit from having ice cream sold at seafront events. Furthermore, the Council would also want to be able to recruit vendors of artisan-produced ice cream, such as Glastry Farm or Morelli’s, which is normally sold from fridges not requiring a constantly running diesel engine to power them. It is also something of an anomaly that the change proposed in the 2013 report protected local ice cream businesses only from sales by mobile vendors, and not businesses selling other types of product (chips, burgers etc) which are frequently available at Council and third-party events on the seafront. It is therefore proposed that both the Council and third party event organisers should be allowed to recruit ice cream vendors as part of the infrastructure of events on Bangor Seafront of no more than two days’ continuous duration. The next Council event of this type would be Sea Bangor 2019. Another important caveat would be that any ice cream van or vendor recruited should not be sited at the entrance to the McKee Clock arena or any other location on the seafront which would create an obstruction in terms of rapid access by emergency services, and/or egress by the public, in the event of an emergency situation.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that Council approves forthwith that ice cream vendors may be recruited for events on Bangor Seafront of no more than two days’ duration, whether by the Council or by third party event organisers, excluding the siting of any ice cream van or vendor at a location deemed to be causing an obstruction.

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ITEM 13







Head of Tourism


File Reference TO/TD169

Legislation



Subject Review of Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership

Attachments The Ards legacy Borough Council, in partnership with the legacy Down District Council and the then Department of the Environment, via NIEA, instigated a body (originally the Strangford Lough Management Committee – later renamed the Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership) to address issues of joint concern in relation to the Strangford and Lecale AONB. The arrangement was established via an MOU, with the parties sharing the costs of SLLP via an agreed split. Down DC assumed responsibility for employing the SLLP office staff, but with obligations in this regard assumed by all the partners. Following RPA, an agreement was reached in October 2015 between the new Ards and North Down and Newry, Mourne and Down Councils and the Department to continue financial support of SLLP via a split of 19.5% from each Council and 61% from NIEA. This equates to an annual contribution by each Council of approximately £25,000. The Department’s funding is via a Letter of Offer for the SLLP Action Plan which will expire on 31 March 2019. NMDDC has led preparation on behalf of both councils of a new application to DAERA’s Environment Fund, to support continuation of the SLLP Action Plan until

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31 March 2022. If successful, the LOO will operate on a rolling annual basis, so any financial commitment by ANDBC would be confirmed on an annual basis only (£25,000 p.a.). Since its inception, the total contribution by Ards BC and ANDBC to the staffing and operational costs of SLLP is approximately £225,000, the large majority of which relates to staff costs (currently one manager, one Project Officer and one Administrative Officer). As SLLP has limited programme budget, the partner councils have over the years also contributed directly to projects led by the SLLP office, such as the recent audit of access to Strangford Lough which was funded equally by the two councils at a cost of £11,025 each. Primary statutory responsibility for the AONB lies with DAERA rather than the councils however the 2015 agreement commits all the parties to undertake those actions within the SLLP Action Plan which fall within their areas of statutory function and responsibility. Given that a new grant application is now in progress, which includes an element for SLLP staff of approximately 70%, it is an appropriate time to conduct an independent review of the Council’s management arrangements for the AONB and SLLP. The cost of this will be shared with NMDDC, with the Department seen as being a significant stakeholder/consultee within the review. NMDDC will also use the opportunity to review its arrangements for the Mournes/Ring of Gullion AONB, so will bear an additional element of the cost, to be agreed. The Terms of Reference for the review are a work in progress but there will be a value for money exercise to appoint an external consultant and it is anticipated that the cost can be absorbed within 2018/2019 Tourism budgets. A further report will be brought to Council detailing the conclusion of the review, estimated by the end of March 2019.

RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council approves an independent external review of its management arrangements for the AONB and Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership, funded from 2018/19 Tourism budgets.

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ITEM 14







Head of Toursim

Date of Report 04 June 2018

File Reference TO/EV42

Legislation



Subject Pipe Band Championships 2019

Attachments Background The Committee asked that venues in Newtownards be explored as an alternative to Castle Park, Bangor, for the 2019 Pipe Band Championships. Officers from the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBANI) and ANDBC have been involved in an extensive assessment of the potentially suitable sites available, including the potential financial implications and other considerations. Based on the event footprint two sites have been considered in Newtownards, these being Londonderry Park and Ards Airfield. To inform the assessment market research was conducted at this year’s Pipe Band event held in Bangor on 12 May, with attendees asked the question: What factors are important to you at a Pipe Band Competition. Responses (% of attendees selecting an item as important) were: Parking - 87.34%, Food options - 60.76 Bar facilities - 40.51% Town centre location – 40.51%

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Public transport - 25.32% Shopping facilities - 22.78% Londonderry Park: A site visit to Londonderry Park with officers of the RSPBANI was carried out. The site played host to the event previously, however it has been significantly re-developed since then. The facilities offered at Londonderry Park appeal to the event organisers, however they have some significant concerns in relation to the actual space available, particularly in relation to car parking. The toilet facilities in the pavilion could be used, making allowance for additional capacity by providing portaloos around the site. The Scottish Dancing competition could be accommodated in one of the sports halls in the pavilion. Organisers estimate that they require parking for 500 cars and officers’ observations of traffic when the event is held at Castle Park support this as a conservative estimate. Londonderry Park itself has 150 spaces. Two football clubs situated across the road, who have both confirmed that they would be happy for the sites to be used for carparking to facilitate the event, have 30 and 40 spaces respectively. The collective total of spaces available at the site is less than half of the required event capacity. The site would also be limited in its ability to take motorhomes, a large number of which regularly attend the event. Having additional car parking across from the main venue presents the necessity to ensure health and safety for participants and spectators crossing the Portaferry Road. RSPBANI officers have pointed out that most of their participants are bringing uniforms and heavy instruments as well as several family members. Officers have researched the creation a temporary crossing point – this can be achieved under Article 7 of the Road Closure Order. However, it would cost approximately £1000 to apply for this and implement a traffic management plan. There is also the potential to create delays on this very busy road on a Saturday, with potential tailbacks affecting traffic to Castlebawn. Officers have consulted the PSNI who have expressed concerns in relation to the impact on traffic if considering this location and outlined a strong preference for the airfield as the location for the event on that basis. A park and ride facility would be set up between Londonderry Park and the town centre, which would supplement parking capacity and facilitate people to shop in Newtownards town centre. While there would be no fee to hire Londonderry Park, there would be a loss of revenue to the Council associated with other activity which would normally take place at the Park on a Saturday (see Cost Table, below). Ards Airfield A site visit to Ards Airfield with officers of the RSPBANI was carried out and a suitable location for the competition was identified. The site is significant in size and would therefore enable both the competition and all the required parking, (including motorhomes), to be accommodated together. However, use of the site does add additional budget items, in particular the hire of the venue and additional wages for site preparation and marshalling. As the site is very large there is an additional

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opportunity to invite local traders to participate in the event in addition to the usual complement of RSPBANI stallholders. Although the site can accommodate all the required event parking, a shuttle bus facility would be set up between Ards Airfield and the town centre to facilitate people shopping in Newtownards.

At a recent meeting of a newly formed Event Engagement Group in Newtownards the group, comprising representatives from local businesses, clergy, transport etc, agreed to support the event at either venue in Newtownards, with shops dressing their windows and participating in trading at the event. (Traders participation can be easily accommodated at Ards airfield but would be extremely limited at Londonderry Park).

Table of Costs

Item Castle Park Londonderry Park

Ards Airfield

Estimated Fee to Pipeband Association

£14,000 £14,000 £14,000

Wages £500 £2,000 £1,000 Cleansing £500 £500 £500 Venue Hire £0 £1000* £2,500 Road Closure/Traffic Management

£0 £1,000 £2,500

Marketing £1,000 £2,000 £2,000 Tiered Seating £0 £1,200 £1,200 Portable Toilets £0 £800 £800 Shuttlebus Service £0 £225 £225 Park and Ride £0 £225 £0 Generators £1,000 £1,000 £1,000 Total £17,000 £23,950 £25,725 Cost Per Attendee, based on 5000 Attendees

£3.40 £4.79 £5.14

*Estimate of hire cost, covering lost revenue, due to cancellation of normal activities In summary, both options in Newtownards will incur significant additional costs to stage the event compared to Castle Park, Bangor. However, alternating the Pipe Band Championships between the Borough’s two principal towns will provide regional spread. It is anticipated the event will attract the normal 5,000 attendees (7,000 in good weather) whether the event is in Bangor or Newtownards. Staging the event in Newtownards may impact on the Council’s ability to achieve an anticipated target Cost per Attendee figure, across the entire season’s tourism

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events programme, of £3.60 per attendee (assuming the 2019 target is maintained at the same level as 2018). Should the Committee opt to proceed with a Newtownards venue, the airfield option, while more costly, is the safer choice with the convenience of on-site parking for participants. It is also the preferred option of the Board of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. Either Newtownards option will require the Committee to approve either a significant increase in the 2019 Events Budget, or a reduction in the budget for other events in the programme to generate the additional funds for the Pipe Band Championships. A further report on the 2019/20 Tourism Events Programme will be brought to Committee in due course.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that Council considers the future location of the Pipe Band Championships. Either:

a) Keep the event at Castle Gardens, Bangor Or

b) Stage the 2019 Pipe Band Championships in Newtownards at Ards Airfield, with associated funding to be approved in the 2019/20 Events budget. The event will then rotate back to Bangor in 2020.

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ITEM 15



Council/Committee Regeneration & Development




Head of Finance


File Reference FIN45

Legislation Section 5 Local Government Finance Act (NI) 2011

Section 75 Compliant Yes ☐ No ☐ Not Applicable ☒

Subject Regeneration and Development Budgetary Control Report – August 2018

Attachments - This Regeneration and Development Budgetary Control Report covers the 5-month period 1 April to 31 August 2018 and is set out on page 3. The net cost of the services is showing an under spend of £83,359 (5.3%). Explanation of Variance In addition, a Budgetary Control Report by Income and Expenditure for Regeneration and Development is, also, shown on page 3 which analyses the overall favourable variance (£83,359) by expenditure (£31,297 adverse) and income (£114,655 favourable).

Regeneration & Development Expenditure - £31.3k (1.7%) worse than budget to date. This adverse variance is mainly made up of the following: -

1. Regeneration - £58.8k adverse. This adverse variance is more than offset by a £87.0k favourable income variance (see 4 below) and is explained by: -

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a. Payroll £22.7k favourable due to 2 vacancies in Urban Development (£11.6k) which will, hopefully, be filled in October and a vacant post in Craft Development (£17.4k).

b. Donaghadee THI grant payments are £75.5k over budget but this is offset by expected increased grant income (see 4a below).

c. The Village Programme is £22.0k over budget but this is offset by expected increased grant income (see 4b below)

d. There are small favourable variances in running costs for Craft Development (£6.1k), Rural Development (£2.2k) and Public Realm revenue costs (£3.0k).

2. Economic Development - £3.0k favourable. This is mainly due to an

underspend of £2.7k on payroll. 3. Tourism - £24.4k favourable. This favourable variance is explained by: -

a. Tourism payroll is under budget by £14.1k to date. b. There are small favourable variances on running costs for Ards VIC

(£2.6k), Bangor VIC (£1.5k), Tourism Marketing (£4.7k) and Experience Ards (£2.5k).

Income - £114.7k (39.9%) better than budget to date. This favourable variance is mainly made up of the following: -

4. Regeneration - £87.0k favourable. This is mainly due to: - a. Donaghadee THI grants are £63.9k favourable. The Council has paid

out more grant than budget so should receive more grant funding (see 1b above).

b. The Village Programme is expected to receive £21.8k grant income which was not budgeted.

5. Economic Development - £15.8k favourable. This is mainly due to Signal Centre income being better than budget to date.

6. Tourism - £11.8k favourable. This is mainly due to the following a. Tourism income is £4.2k favourable – there are small favourable

variances for Bangor VIC (£1.4k) and Experience Ards (£1.5k). b. Events income is £7.6k better than budget to date. There are

favourable variances for the Easter event (£1.3k), May Day (£2.0k), Sea Bangor (£2.9k) and Puppet Festival (£1.2k).

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RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Committee notes this report.

Note Year to Date Actual

Year to Date Budget

Variance Annual Budget

Variance

£ £ £ £ %

Regen & Development

300 Regen, Dev & Planning HQ 65,923 66,000 (77) 317,100 0.1

310 Regeneration 339,443 367,700 (28,257) 1,315,900 7.7

320 Economic Development 293,292 312,100 (18,808) 1,116,200 6.0

340 Tourism 789,183 825,400 (36,217) 1,954,500 4.4

Totals 1,487,841 1,571,200 (83,359) 4,703,700 5.3

BUDGETARY CONTROL REPORTBy Directorate and Service

Period 5 - August 2018

Note Actual Budget Variance Actual Budget Variance£ £ £

Regen & Development

300 Regen, Dev & Planning HQ 65,923 66,000 (77) - - -

310 Regeneration 530,783 472,000 58,783 (191,340) (104,300) (87,040)

320 Economic Development 452,474 455,500 (3,026) (159,182) (143,400) (15,782)

340 Tourism 840,817 865,200 (24,383) (51,634) (39,800) (11,834)

Totals 1,889,997 1,858,700 31,297 (402,155) (287,500) (114,655)

BUDGETARY CONTROL REPORTBy Income and Expenditure

Period 5 - August 2018

Expenditure Income

ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL A meeting of the Donaghadee Town Steering Group was held in Donaghadee Community Centre, Donaghadee on Monday 10 September 2018 at 6.00 pm. PRESENT: In the Chair: Councillor Walker Alderman: Alderman Keery Councillors: Brooks Smith Other Members: John Caldwell

Heather Boyle – Chamber of Trade Niall McVitty – Department of Communities Officers: Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning (S

McCullough), Head of Regeneration (B Dorrian), Planning Professional and Technical Officer (A Charles), THI Officer (N Brown), Project Assistant (C McMullan), Administrative Assistant (R Moore) and Democratic Services Officer (J Glasgow)

Also in attendance: Michael Dunlop and Stephen Dunlop (Urban Property

Solutions Ltd), Gareth Irvine (Chief Executive, Copeland Spirits) and Gerry Hamill (Architect).

1. APOLOGIES Apologies for inability to attend were received from Councillor Chambers, Mr N Johnston and Mr A Kerr. NOTED. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST The Chairman sought any declarations of interest and none were advised. NOTED. 3. REDEVELOPMENT OF FORMER DONAGHADEE COMMUNITY

CENTRE The Head of Regeneration provided the background to the proposal and advised that the issue of title had been resolved. The Council had invited proposals for the redevelopment and this proposal had come forward and hit the key markers for the strategy.

DTSG.10.09.18

2

Mr Stephen Dunlop, Director – Urban Property Solutions introduced the representatives who were in attendance:-

- Michael Dunlop, Director – Urban Property Solutions - Gareth Irvine, Chief Executive - Copeland Spirits - Gerry Hamill, Architect.

Urban Property Solutions were proposing to take a long lease on the redundant building known as the old Community Centre. In partnership with Copeland Spirits the aspiration was to refurbish the building and use it as a modern distillery with a visitor’s centre. Mr S Dunlop read an extract of published vision for Donaghadee which he believed set the scene for the proposal and others which could enhance and define Donaghadee’s future: “In 2030, Donaghadee will have re-emerged as a thriving seaside town. The redeveloped harbour has provided the catalysts for visitor and community services to return. The increase in tourism activity has also stimulated a vibrant waterfront stretching to the Commons, acting as a focus for leisure and recreation”. Mr M Dunlop provided a background to his company Urban Property Solutions and the focus on solutions to difficult urban regeneration problems. The business had six projects active with a total value of six million. Mr M Dunlop also outlined his previous experience and projects that he had been involved in. Mr M Dunlop advised that the Directors of Urban Property Solutions had attended the launch of the Council’s Integrated Tourism, Regeneration and Development Strategy and had been impressed by that strategy. Urban Property Solutions had faith in Donaghadee and they intended to make the project one of a number to help consolidate the town. The former Community Centre building had been derelict for 10+years and the proposal would bring the building back to life and provide employment opportunities. Furthermore, the distillery would provide a specified destination for some and be an attraction as a place to visit. The Council held the lease for the building and therefore would grant ongoing future influence over any changes. Mr Gareth Irvine provided the background to Copeland Gin which had been launched in November 2016. The business currently operated out of units based in Saintfield, however, were excited by the opportunity to move the brand to Donaghadee. The brand was currently being sold in Dubai, Middle East as well as throughout Ireland and UK. The materials used to produce the gin were all locally produced. Mr Irvine explained that the process to distil would produce little smell and noise and therefore the process would respect the neighbours and the environment having minimal impact. The building itself was a great layout for the purpose and site was accessible for deliveries etc.

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In summary, Mr S Dunlop outlined that the objectives of the proposal were to create an investment that was complimentary to the masterplan and a stimulant to further regeneration capitalising on Donaghadee’s attraction as cruise ship excursion destination. A key social and commercial marriage of quality and prestige to lift local aspiration and help redefine Donaghadee as a destination with a new brand. Urban Property Solutions believed that Donaghadee was a location that would attract more visitors from Belfast and further afield, seeking a relaxed experience in a warm and welcoming environment to explore the Ards Peninsula. The Chairman (Councillor Walker) thanked the representatives for their presentation and invited questions from Members. Councillor Smith asked the costs of the refurbishment. Mr M Dunlop advised that the budget for refurbishment was £250,000 and Copeland Spirits were investing £150,000 for the fitting out of the premises. Councillor Smith asked about the noise that would come from the operation and felt that was an important point to highlight with the residents. Mr Irvine stated that the business would be restricted by the regulations set out by HM Revenue and Customs, the licence would grant the hours when the business could operate. All the production would occur internally and he imagined the business would run from 9am – 5 pm, Monday- Friday and Saturday 9 am – 12 noon, however reiterated that would be subject to the licence. Mr Irvine stated that the impact on traffic would be minimal. Alderman Keery asked if the proposal would bring employment opportunities. In response Mr Irvine advised that he currently had 4 full-time and 1 part-time employees. His intention was to increase that by 3 employees and then a further 2, there was potential for that number to increase as the business grew. Mr Caldwell welcomed the proposal. He referred to the masterplan which envisaged that a linkage occurring between Manor Street and the Marina Car Park and asked if that option remained viable. In response the Head of Regeneration stated that the masterplan did show an aspiration to create a Linear Park stretching from the Harbour, Commons along to Hunts Park. Future discussions would occur regarding that taking account of this proposal and the new developments in Donaghadee. Councillor Smith referred to the concerns that had been expressed and asked how those could be addressed. Mr M Dunlop understood the concerns for those people who did not drink alcohol. However, the proposal would be located in an ideal location and have minimal impact of residents. Adding to that, Mr Irvine explained that people would not be able to walk of the street and visit the premises, the licence would not permit the selling of alcohol and any tours would be pre-planned and require pre-booking. The Director of Regeneration, Development and Planning enquired about the tourist offerings and referred to Bushmills as an example. Mr Irvine advised that discussions were occurring with Mr and Mrs Waterworth regarding the potential joint offerings and if their licence could be used to host such events. There were a

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number of ideas that were being explored along with potential joint offerings with Bridewell Coffee Shop. Mrs Boyle asked how many visitors could be accommodated and expansion opportunities available within the building. In response Mr Irvine advised that 80 -120 visitors per week could be accommodated in small groups. The plan displayed in the presentation was not to scale and the building provided a lot of room and there were options available to expand. In response to a question from Alderman Keery, Mr Irvine stated that when he launched Copeland Gin there was only one other gin provider in Ireland, there was now over 400. He recognised Northern Ireland was a small market but did present great tourist offerings. He was exploring export channels and along with the support of Invest NI was looking at Canada as a potential export opportunity. In response to further questions, Mr Dunlop noted that the deadline was tight and Copeland Gin needed to vacate their current premises by 31st March 2019. Through the pre-application discussions with the Planning Department a bat survey was required to be undertaken which had been completed the previous week and no bats had been identified. The Chairman welcomed the exciting proposal and thanked the representatives for their presentation. NOTED.

4. ANY OTHER BUSINESS There were no items of any other business. 5. DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The date of next meeting would be advised in due course. TERMINATION OF MEETING The meeting terminated at 6.30 pm.

ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL A meeting of the Comber Town Steering Group was held in Comber Leisure Centre, Comber on Tuesday, 18th September 2018 at 5.30pm. PRESENT:- In the Chair: Alderman Fletcher Aldermen: Gibson Girvan Councillors: Cummings Other Members: Michelle McIlveen MLA Desi Mackey, Comber Regeneration Heather Bradley, DfI Roads Peter Weir, MLA Officers: Head of Regeneration (B Dorrian), Regeneration Officer (D

Birch), Professional and Technical Officer (L Flinn), Democratic Services Officer (H Loebnau)

WELCOME 1. APOLOGIES Apologies were received from Nial McVitty and Mike Nesbitt. NOTED. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

The Chairman asked for any declarations of interest and none were advised.

NOTED. 3. ROAD / LAYOUT SCHEME The Chairman welcomed Heather Bradley to the meeting to give an update on the traffic management system which included the new phasing of the traffic lights at the Square. The Head of Regeneration reported that he had been asked to call a meeting to discuss the road layout and traffic management within Comber town centre. Members of Council had raised those matters with the Council’s Chief Executive. The Regeneration Officer explained that ACOM had commissioned a comprehensive study of traffic flows in Comber town centre. It had produced a list of potential solutions to ease traffic in that area with a shortlist of four. One of those options was

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the changing of the phasing of traffic lights to reduce the build up of queues. It was noted that when that had been undertaken the property market had been more depressed, but now a number of new properties were coming on to the market leading to increased levels of traffic. Alderman Girvan explained that the traffic phasing had been in place for almost a year and wondered whether tweaking it slightly could help to achieve an optimum traffic flow. She stated that Members would be aware that it was expected that approximately 1,400 houses would be built over the next six years. People were beginning to reroute their journeys to avoid the town and ‘rat runs’ were being used which were a potential health and safety issue. She had recently brought forward a Notice of Motion to the Council requesting that the traffic signalling be reviewed. She also thought that the third phase of the Comber bypass should be put in place. In response Heather Bradley said that DfI Roads was not in a position to fund a new Comber bypass and at present the development line was simply being protected for possible future use. Members would be aware that funding had been limited within most government departments. Heather Bradley went on to say that many towns in Northern Ireland had similar traffic problems and many experienced traffic which was much worse. Comber was not generally viewed as having a severe traffic congestion problem. When a developer wished to build within any town the building of a road was often part of the conditions of the planning permission, however, developers did not generally build main roads. Councillor Cummings understood the financial difficulties that DfI Roads was facing but asked if the traffic sequencing could be reconsidered. The current sequencing had reduced road traffic accidents and DfI Roads would not be prepared to make a change which could increase those numbers again. Councillor Cummings considered that parking close to the bank and the Methodist Church was causing some congestion. DfI Roads was looking at parking restrictions and limited parking areas times but the balance of parking and trade for the local shops was a careful consideration. Desi Mackey reported that he lived in Killinchy Street in the town and the layby outside his house was full of cars from 7 am each morning which stayed there for the full day. In summing up the Chairman, Alderman Fletcher, asked that on-street parking be reviewed. He also asked Heather Bradley if DfI Roads could look at on street parking at Bridge Street and Killinchy Street to increase the flow of vehicular traffic in that area. Heather Bradley gave a commitment that a review of the traffic in the town would be considered, but she did not hold much hope for a change in that area. The Chairman reminded Members to provide input in to the Comber local development plan. He queried if there would ever be a limit to permitted

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development prior to a bypass road. DfI Roads was a consultee to the planning service. Any major development would require a traffic impact assessment. The Council always had the final approval for development matters. Alderman Girvan did not agree that congestion in Comber was mild. She thought it was a problem, which would only get worse until a bypass was in place. Heather Bradley reminded the Members that other parts of Northern Ireland were in greater need and Comber was not a priority area. For example, a bypass at Ballynahinch was a current priority and it was hoped that a new road would be in place there within the next 5-15 years. Alderman Girvan thanked DfI Roads for the resurfacing of the road outside the town between the two roundabouts and asked if resurfacing could also be considered at Killinchy Street. Heather Bradley informed the meeting that that work was scheduled and would be done towards the end of November. The Chairman asked if the resurfacing would continue to Castle Street and it was reported that it would not be. 4. ANY OTHER BUSINESS The Head of Regeneration reported that a working group would meet the following evening to discuss and update on the new cycleways. A report would be brought to the next meeting. Members of the Comber Town Steering Group were informed that Mike Moore and Irene Atherton were retiring from the committee. The Chairman asked David Birch to write to both of these members thanking them for their input to the Comber Town Steering Group over the past years. Proposed by Alderman Girvan, seconded by Councillor Cumming that a letter be sent to Mike Moore and Irene Atherton thanking them for their service to the committee. 5. DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The Head of Regeneration reported that the Comber Town Centre Steering Group would take place on an ad hoc basis and notification of the next meeting would come in due course. TERMINATION OF MEETING The meeting terminated at 6.12 pm.

ards and north down borough council€¦ · 6. quay marina’s quarterly april-june 2018 report...

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