Development (Economic Development) Sub-Committee 6 October 2004
From Nigov
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Wednesday, 6th October, 2004
MEETING OF DEVELOPMENT (ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT) SUB-COMMITTE
Members present: Councillor C. McGimpsey (Chairman); the Deputy Lord Mayor (Councillor O’Donnell); and Councillors M. Browne, Crowe, A. Maskey, McCarthy, O’Reilly, Rodgers and E. Smyth.
In attendance: Ms. S. Watson, Economic Development Manager; and Miss L. Hillick, Committee Administrator.
Apology
An apology for inability to attend was reported from Councillor Newton.
Minutes
The minutes of the meetings of 25th August and 8th September, which had been printed and circulated, were taken as read and signed as correct.
(The Deputy Chairman, Councillor McCarthy, in the Chair.)
Visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia
The Sub-Committee considered a report in relation to a visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia, which had been undertaken during the period from 10th till 16th September, 2004. A copy of the report, with the exception of the appendices referred to therein, is set out hereunder:
“Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to update Members on the recent visit by Council to Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Background and Purpose of Visit
Members will be aware that at the meeting of the Economic Development Sub-Committee of 5th May, 2004, approval was given for an outward visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia from 10-16th September, 2004.
The main purpose of the visit was to follow through on a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the then Premier of Nova Scotia, John Hamm, and the Lord Mayor of Belfast in 2000 to promote business and economic development opportunities between the two regions.
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The key objectives of the visit were:
Belfast City Council
- To re-establish civic links created through Atlantic Rim Initiative
- To gain an understanding of the development, management and promotion of environmental sustainability within industrial parks for the North Foreshore
- To gain an understanding of the development, management and promotion of the Atlantic Canada World Trade Centre.
- To gain an understanding of the successful development of public-private sector partnerships to further economic development
- To promote the work of Belfast City Council in Economic Development of Belfast
Investment Belfast/Technology Delegation
- To learn best practices in the successful development of university and industry links promoting technology transfer/commercialisation and to explore partnerships with the institutions being met in Halifax
The delegation comprised:
Councillor Tom Ekin, the Right Honourable Lord Mayor Councillor Pat McCarthy, Deputy Chairman, Economic Development, Councillor Alan Crowe Councillor Joe O’Donnell
Professor Bernie Hannigan, Pro Vice Chancellor (Research), University of Ulster Dr Norman Apsley, Chief Executive, Northern Ireland Science Park Mr Cormac Kelly, Director of Enterprise and Technology, Investment Belfast Mr Rob Desborough, Business Development Manager, UUTech
Ms Shirley McCay, Head of Economic Initiatives Mr Frankie Smith, Economic Development Officer Ms Sarah Molloy, International Relations Officer
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Aim of Visit
The primary aim for the visit was to secure an inward trade mission to Belfast in 2005 by key Halifax businesses and economic development agencies.
Results of Visit
Belfast City Council Delegation:-
Target Result
To secure inward trade mission to Belfast in 2005
Achieved. Minister of Economic Development, Mr Ernest Fage, agreed to lead delegation of Halifax businesses and the regional economic development agency, Nova Scotia Business Inc., to Belfast in spring 2005.
To secure assistance from Burnside Industrial Park in the proposed development of the Environmental Science Park on the North Foreshore site.
Achieved. Professor Raymond Côté of Dalhousie University and Director of Eco-Efficiency Centre in Burnside Industrial Park agreed to act as advisor to Belfast City Council on North Foreshore development.
To secure assistance from Atlantic Canada World Trade Centre in the development and implementation of the proposed World Trade Centre in Belfast
Achieved. Mr William Aasvangen, Manager of Atlantic Canada World Trade Centre agreed to act as advisor to Belfast City Council on proposed World Trade Centre development.
To gain an understanding of the successful development of public-private sector partnerships to further economic development Achieved. Held briefing meetings with main economic development agencies and public-private partnerships in region: • Greater Halifax Partnership • Nova Scotia Business Inc. • Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency • Nova Scotia Economic Development • Atlantic Canada World Trade Centre • InNOVAcorp and four incubator companies • Eco-Efficiency Centre, Burnside Industrial Park
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Target Result To promote the work of Belfast City Council in Economic Development of Belfast Achieved. In addition to organisations listed above, delegation met with: • Minister of Economic Development • Mayor of Halifax and Halifax Regional Municipality • Presidents of seven of eleven universities in province of Nova Scotia • Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage • Atlantic Progress Publishing Limited • Halifax Port Authority • Dalhousie University
In order to promote Belfast to Nova Scotia businesses, economic development agencies and universities.
In addition to the targeted results the visit resulted in the following:
- The identification of potential joint initiatives between Halifax and Belfast in the cultural/tourism sectors: the inclusion of Halifax festivals in the Belfast 2006 cultural celebrations, the participation of Belfast in the Atlantic Canada Craft Fair and the inclusion of Halifax in the Creative Industries Showcase in 2005.
- Port? The assistance of Halifax Port Authority in compiling with new US security requirements for foreign ports.
Investment Belfast/Technology Delegation
Target Result
To learn best practices in the successful development of university and industry links promoting technology transfer/ commercialisation and to explore partnerships with the institutions being met in Halifax Achieved. Delegation met with: • seven of eleven universities in province including Dalhousie University to explore joint work in the area of life science research and development • the incubation company InNOVAcorp to develop links between Belfast and Nova Scotia companies in the knowledge based industry sector As a result of these meetings, potential links were identified between QUB and UU and universities in Nova Scotia which will be pursued by QUB and UU.
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Media Coverage
While in Halifax, the delegation received coverage in the provincial newspaper, the Herald Chronicle, receiving front page coverage in the Business section. Feature attached as Appendix I to this report.
The Lord Mayor was interviewed on ATV Evening News, Atlantic Canada’s evening news programme covering Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.
The visit received unfavourable coverage in the South Belfast News and, at time of writing, the paper had agreed to publish an article outlining the aims and resulting benefits to Belfast as a direct result of the visit.
It is recommended that during future outward visits Members consider inviting a representative from the media to join the delegation in order to get a more detailed understanding of the aims of the visit, benefits to the city and work of the Members during such visits.
Follow Up
A detailed ‘to do’ list summarising the follow up work to be carried out as a result of the visit is attached as Appendix II to this report. Members will be updated on the progress of the outcomes outlined in this report and on any further outcomes resulting from the visit.
Environmental Implications
None.
Equality Considerations
None.
Capital City Strategy Reference
To foster and maintain international alliances.
LED Plan Reference
To promote Belfast as a dynamic and competitive international city.
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Budgetary Implications
None.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members note the contents of this report.
Decision Required
To approve the foregoing recommendations.”
(The Chairman, Councillor C. McGimpsey, in the Chair.)
After discussion, the Sub-Committee noted the contents of the foregoing report.
Investment Belfast Limited
Marketing Plan
The Sub-Committee considered the undernoted report in relation to the funding of Investment Belfast Limited’s Marketing Plan 2004/2005:
“Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to present to Members the Investment Belfast Marketing Plan for approval and funding.
Background
At a Special Meeting of Development (Economic Development) Sub-Committee of 5th April, 2004 the Operational Plan for Investment Belfast for the year March 2004 - April 2005 was approved and a financial allocation of £360,000 agreed to cover core running costs of Investment Belfast.
Proposal
One of the key priorities for the forthcoming year include:-
Domestic & International Marketing theme
- Perception of Belfast changed positively with key influencers and business leaders in London, Dublin, New York, Boston, Washington
To this end Investment Belfast Ltd has prepared a marketing plan to deliver up to the period 2006 which will include:-
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- Summit for Property Investment event, 9th 10th November, London
- Communications Agenda aimed specifically at London and Dublin
- Advertising
A full breakdown of the marketing plan is included in Appendix I. Members should also be aware that all activities within this proposal will be complimentary to the Sub-Committee’s communication agenda and that all activities will recognise Belfast City Council support and will include Council logos.
Environmental Implications
None.
Equality Considerations
None.
Capital City Strategy Reference
To drive the economic growth of Belfast.
LED Strategy Reference
To support and develop business growth and competitiveness.
Budget
£15,000.
Recommendation
To note the contents of the report and approve expenditure for the Investment Belfast Marketing Plan.
Decision Required
To approve the forgoing recommendations.
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APPENDIX 1
INVESTMENT BELFAST
Partnership proposal to Belfast City Council regarding domestic and international marketing activity
‘Investment Belfast will strive to develop a positive image for Belfast at home and abroad to give confidence to potential investors. The principle target cities will be London, Dublin, New York, Boston and Washington.’
In addressing the domestic and international marketing elements within the Operational Plan, Investment Belfast is proposing the roll out of a targeted marketing and communications campaign in partnership with a number of leading organisations within Belfast. This includes the following elements:
1. Key Development Site Promotion
Working closely with Belfast City Council, Laganside, Invest NI and the principle property developers, Investment Belfast will develop a marketing programme to promote these major schemes to location advisers, investors and end users. This will include:
• Organising a Belfast stand at the European property exhibition – MIPIM
• Continuing the briefing of corporate advisers in London and Dublin
• Hosting an event for potential end users in London and New York
• Publishing an updated property brochure
• Establishing a development site section on the Investment Belfast website
2. City Centre Retail Marketing
Working closely with the Belfast City Centre Regeneration Directorate, Belfast City Council and the Belfast City Centre Management Company, Investment Belfast will market the Belfast leisure and retail opportunities to corporate advisers and end users in London and Dublin. The objectives of the marketing campaign are to:
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• Raise awareness of the business opportunities in Belfast
• Build confidence in Belfast among potential investors
• Secure new retail and leisure investments in the city
In the course of the year:
• A marketing brochure, and presentation will be produced.
• A review of the retail market by the Valuation and Lands agency will be sponsored
• 6 features on Belfast will be placed in targeted publications
• 50 decision makers in London and Dublin will be briefed on the Belfast retail and leisure opportunities
• 25 decision makers will make a fact finding visit to Belfast, including 5 new brands previously identified as prime targets
3. Investor Gateway Service
The investor gateway service provides valuable support to potential investors by addressing a range of needs including:
• Business information and research • Introductions • Fact finding visits • Sourcing potential locations
The key objective is to smooth the path to business success for potential investors. This year the information service will be enhanced through the development of detailed sector analyses for the ICT, Life and Health Technologies and Financial Services sectors. In addition the detailed economic profile for the Belfast metro area will be updated.
A report will also be produced to determine why 19 potential investors to Belfast chose to locate their businesses elsewhere.
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4. International Networks - Friends of Belfast and North Atlantic Rim
Investment Belfast will continue to support Belfast City Council as required in building a commercial dimension to the international networks established through the Friends of Belfast initiative and the North Atlantic Rim agreement in Boston, New York, Pittsburgh, Denver, and Halifax Nova Scotia. All communication activity will link into Belfast City Council’s work in this area.
5. World Trade Centre
Belfast City Council has a 50% stake with AM Development in a World Trade Centre franchise for Belfast. There are over 300 Centres in 100 countries across the world and the presence of a WTC in a city has become recognised as an important contributor to a city’s international competitiveness. Investment Belfast will support Belfast City Council in the successful delivery of a WTC in Belfast.
The Proposal
IBL would like to take this opportunity to present to you a number of key opportunities where there is a potential to work in partnership with Belfast City Council.
This proposal is submitted to Belfast City Council with a view to supporting its work in the growth and development of Belfast: Capital City and assisting in the delivery of a number of the Council’s main objectives:
• To showcase Belfast as a prime investment location and place to visit, live and work
• To promote Belfast’s culture and market the experience the city has to offer
• To enhance the competitiveness of the city
• To drive the economic growth of Belfast
• To affirm Belfast’s position as the core city of the region and ensure it is
• recognized as such in the UK and beyond
We would welcome the support of Belfast City Council in the following activity:
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Summit for Property Investment event, 9th-10th Nov, London
This is a new property event which is to be held in the QE2 Conference Centre in Westminster. Exhibitors include developers, financial institutions, real estate consultants, cities & regions and architects. Visitors are on an invitation only basis, therefore the quality of attendees will be high. Laganside and the Northern Ireland Science Park have been confirmed as partners. Titanic Quarter, Harbour Commissioners and Invest NI are also likely to support. The objective is to raise awareness of the investment and development opportunities in Belfast. This is a new exhibition targeting developers, financial institutions and corporate advisers in the UK. It will be held in the QE II conference centre on 9th/10th November. The success of the event will be measured through the following:
• Number of visitors to the stand
• Number of promotional brochures distributed
• Number of business enquiries taken
• Number of visits to Belfast as a result of business enquiry.
Contribution: Maximum of £5,000
Communications Agenda
Domestically, nationally and internationally, Belfast exists on a diet of negative news stories portrayed through the press, radio and television. In order to build investor confidence, it is vital to present a more positive image of the city. Investment Belfast will proactively seek to place positive stories in the local, national and international media. In the course of the year:
• Media agencies will be appointed for the US, ROI and London to build media relations and place the business stories.
• 50 business stories will be placed across the target cities.
• Business supplement will be commissioned in the Irish Times and costed for the Financial Times (commissioning subject to cost)
• 10 journalists from the target cities will be hosted in Belfast
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Investment Belfast is engaging the services of a communications agency to successfully promote a positive image for Belfast within London, the Republic of Ireland and the United States through the targeted placement of news editorial. Supporting partners in this initiative include Laganside and the NI Science Park.
Contribution: £5,000
Advertising
In order to successfully support inward investors, Investment Belfast must promote its existence and services within the target markets. We propose to place two advertisements in a UK Investment publication and a quality publication aimed at the financial services sector.
Contribution: £5,000”
The Sub-Committee adopted the recommendation contained within the report.
North Belfast Employment Matching Service
The Sub-Committee considered the undernoted report in relation to the funding of a North Belfast Employment Matching Service:
“Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to present to Members a proposal to establish a North Belfast Employment Matching Service (EMS) and to request funding approval for this proposal.
Background
Members will be aware at the Development Committee meeting of 15th September, 2002, approval was given to pursue a relationship with the five Area Partnerships through the development of a Service Level Agreement. One of the key activities to be undertaken by North Belfast Partnership was to undertake work into the development of an Employment Matching Service in the North of the City.
The development has now been undertaken. An Economic Appraisal, Business Plan and Stakeholder Group have been developed through the Service Level Agreement and the project is now moving towards implementation stage.
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Rationale for an EMS
Members will be aware that as part of Belfast City Council’s Local Economic Development Plan a key priority under the theme ‘Driving Economic Change’ is to identify opportunities for further Labour Market Initiatives and to implement these in other parts of the city. This proposal presented is designed to establish an employability intervention that will assist Council achieve these objectives in the North of the City.
Members will recall at the Economic Development Sub Committee of 3rd March, 2004, agreement was sought to allocate an annual sum of £65,000 to support the employer liaison work undertaken by Belfast GEMS. More recently, on 8th September, 2004 the Sub-Committee Members also approved a financial sum of £82,500 to establish an employer liaison service in the East of the city for an 18 month period covering October 2004 March 2006.
North Belfast Partnership Board has now undertaken significant work to develop an Employment Matching Service (EMS) in the North of the city which will work with local employers to increase access to employment opportunities for local people, particularly those experiencing disadvantage.
The EMS is similar to the employer liaison services operating in the South (via Belfast GEMS), West Belfast and Greater Shankill (via Targeted Initiatives) and soon to be operating in the East (via Stepping Stones). It will help provide an integrated and co ordinated service which builds on partnerships between statutory agencies, local voluntary and community organisations and employers. In addition it will bring together all elements of an employability package, tailored to individual needs and will make use of local outreach opportunities to engage all of those people available to the labour market.
Through a series of consultations, DEL has recently endorsed this newly proposed joint approach to delivering employability services to citizens of North Belfast.
North Belfast Employment Matching Service
Business Plan
In late 2003 North Belfast Partnership (NBP) commissioned a feasibility study, economic appraisal and business plan to investigate and identify the potential to establish an EMS in North Belfast. Identified within the business plan was an EMS with three key components:
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- Client facing intermediary which supports those furthest from the labour market into employment
- Employer facing intermediary which supports employers and their needs
- Stakeholder forum which provides strategic co-ordination of employability needs throughout North Belfast
The main purpose of the EMS is to intervene in the labour market at point of labour market failure, both to improve labour supply and to activate or stimulate demand for labour. In this respect the EMS undertakes a number of functions at the interface between the unemployed person and the employer.
The type of activities provided by an EMS, as opposed to any other service provider, can perhaps be best summed up by the following:
- Provides an interface between unemployed and employer; Joins up programmes and initiatives (and manages complex funding packages);
- Provides a seamless service for the customer (the unemployed person and the employer); and
- Adopts a holistic approach (recognising that the smallest hurdle can prevent a solution and seeing it as their business to solve it).
Delivery of the North Belfast EMS
It is proposed that the North Belfast EMS Programme will be delivered through the following employability projects:
i. Employability Stakeholders Forum
ii. Enhanced North Belfast Labour Market Intermediary (LMI) Project
iii Employer’s Initiative (North, South & East)
Employability Stakeholders Forum
The EMS will be delivered through the development and enhancement of a series of relationships between those operating at the interface with those furthest from the labour market, and ultimately those offering employment.
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Objectives
- To co-ordinate and manage the activities of the EMS programme
- To secure funding for the EMS programme
- To monitor and evaluate the EMS programme
- To develop a strategic partnership approach to address employability matters in North Belfast
- To develop an Employability Strategy for North Belfast
- To effectively liaise with the Belfast Employer’s Initiative (GEMS)
Enhanced North Belfast Labour Market Intermediary Project
North Belfast Employment Centre and the Ashton Centre are delivering a two-year contract by DEL to provide Labour Market Intermediary (LMI) services in North Belfast. The proposed EMS seeks to augment the existing LMI provision by delivering an employment outreach programme in areas throughout North Belfast to include individual client support, information and advice in respect to education, training and employment opportunities. This outreach service is currently not provided under the existing DEL contract.
Objectives
- To enhance outreach work carried out by the North Belfast LMI in order to reach and access those furthest from the labour market
- To support LMI job seekers through enhanced job placement support and counselling
- To undertake extensive marketing and promotion of the LMI service
- To provide bespoke support packages which assist local people into employment
- To monitor and evaluate the additional support provided to the North Belfast LMI Project
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Employer’s Initiative
The existing LMI will be further enhanced by the collaboration and sharing of resources and market intelligence between all three LMI’s.
Objectives
- To develop a strategic employers initiative which enhances local employability initiatives in North Belfast
- To develop strategic linkages with employers from across Belfast City in support of the work of the EMS
- To develop bespoke employability programmes which meet employers needs
- To monitor and evaluate the success of the city wide employer programme
Project Management
Membership of the Forum will be open to organisations and agencies with a particular responsibility for employability within North Belfast. It is intended that the Forum will include representatives from various stakeholder interests including government agencies, community interests, schools, Recognised Training Organisation’s (RTO’s), employers and others. This structure is similar to that of the Employment Services Board for West Belfast and Greater Shankill, drawing on the community, voluntary and business sectors with both communities represented.
The Employability Stakeholders Forum will be responsible for all elements of the EMS Project. The Employability Stakeholders Forum will appoint a Manager to facilitate the development of an Employability Strategy & Action Plan for North Belfast and co ordinate and manage the various EMS elements on their behalf. It is proposed that the manager will operate from North Belfast Partnership’s offices. Additional resources will be made available in the form of an Employment Support Officer and an Employability Development Officer, both of which will be managed by the Stakeholder Forum. Given the outreach nature of these roles it is proposed that the Employment Support Officer will be located in the Ashton Centre and the Employability Development Officer in the North Belfast Employment Centre.
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The Employment Support Officer will be crucial in developing working relationships with key employers. The role will specifically involve the development and maintenance of an employer database, working with employers to design and develop bespoke employability programmes and advising employers on staff recruitment and retention.
The post of Employability Development Officer will be responsible for working at a doorstep level to recruit those who are unemployed / economically inactive and liaising with community groups, statutory agencies and RTO’s to maximise opportunities for job seekers / economically inactive clients.
Outputs
The project will provide the following outputs:
North Belfast Employment Matching Service
Activity Indicators
Employment Support Officer
Number of employers engaged with the LMI Types, scale and sectors of employers offering placements to LMI job seekers Number of job seekers being offered placements Number of job seekers completing placements Number of Job seekers being offered employment by placement hosts Number of job seekers who retain employment following support from the LMI Number of returning employers willing to work with the LMI Adjustments in recruitment practices amongst LMI participating employers
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North Belfast Employment Matching Service
Activity Indicators Employability Development Officer Number of job seekers using the LMI service Awareness of the LMI in North Belfast Number of referrals the LMI receives Number of tailored marketing campaigns undertaken in North Belfast Numbers of community information sessions provided, doors knocked, contact made Number of referrals from LMI job seekers to other programmes e.g. Worktrack
Marketing Budget Launch of LMI project – impact and coverage of Number of advertisements Number of leaflets distributed Number of open days, events held which target particular groups Numbers entering the LMI programme
Funding
The total cost for delivering the EMS programme over an 18 month period up to March 2006 is £218,160. The funding requested by Belfast City Council for the same period is £78,000.
Other potential funders who are negotiating funding for this project include Urban II, Laganside and possibly DEL. Under the Accessibility measure Urban II £200,000 is being considered for the development of this EMS. Through the Laganside Grant Scheme there is the possibility of drawing down some £50,000 for match funding. During consultations with DEL it was stated that the Department had no additional resources to fund any of the EMS activities which are not already provided for in the LMI contract. However, as the government body responsible for supporting people into employment it is incumbent upon the department to support innovative local initiatives. If there are any shortfalls in funding the Employability Stakeholders Forum will approach the Department for Support.
Environmental Implications
None.
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Equality Considerations
None.
Capital City Strategy Reference
To drive the economic growth of Belfast
LED Plan Reference
Driving economic change.
Budget
The funding requested by Belfast City Council for the 18 month period covering October 2004 - March 2006 is £78,000.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members:
i. Note the contents of the report.
ii Approve the budgetary implications as outlined above.
Decision Required
To approve the foregoing recommendations.”
After discussion, the Sub-Committee adopted the recommendations contained within the foregoing report.
West Belfast and Greater Shankill Task Forces – Employment Services Board
The Sub-Committee was reminded that, at its meeting on 2nd June, it had noted that Councillors McAuley and H. Smyth had participated on the Employment Services Board as representatives of the West Belfast and Greater Shankill Area Partnership Board and it had been agreed that the Director of the Employment Services Board be notified that the Sub-Committee wished to be represented on the Board by a nominee from each of the four party groupings on the Council not represented by Councillors McAuley and H. Smyth. This decision was subsequently amended at the meeting of the Council on 1st July, to provide that those nominated would represent the Council.
The Economic Development Manager reported that correspondence had been received from the Director of the Employment Services Board, Mr. T. Mervyn, indicating that the Employment Services Board, at its meeting on 2nd September, had agreed to accede to the Council’s request. In addition, the organisation had requested that the Sub-Committee give consideration to the Council’s nominating an officer to participate on the Board.
After discussion, the Sub-Committee agreed that its representation on the Employment Services Board be expanded to include the Chairman (Councillor C. McGimpsey), Councillors McCausland and Walsh and a representative of the Alliance Party. In addition, the Sub-Committee authorised the participation, in an observer capacity, of the Economic Development Manager on the Board.
Belfast Business Database
The Sub-Committee was reminded that, at its meeting on 12th June, 2002, it had agreed to provide funding in the sum of £30,000 in respect of the undertaking of a telephone survey to facilitate the production of a comprehensive Business Directory for Belfast.
The Economic Development Manager stated that the database had proven to be valuable in analysing the trends and patterns of business activities, the formulation of policies and the targeting of resources. She pointed out that the Belfast Business Directory had been published in 2003 in a book and CD-ROM format, with 7,500 businesses listed therein, and had been promoted through the Economic Development Unit and the Belfast First Stop Shop. However, she reported that the information contained within the database had been obtained during 2002 and required to be updated. Accordingly, it was proposed that the directory be placed on the Council’s website, which would enable it to be updated at regular intervals. Research had proven that this was the most popular means of accessing such information and the majority of District Councils within the Province had business directories posted on their websites.
She reminded the Sub-Committee also that, at its meeting on 12th June, 2002, consideration had also been given as to how the Business Database could be kept under review. The Belfast First Stop Shop had been identified as the most appropriate agency for undertaking this role, as it provided a central signposting service for potential and existing businesses and possessed ample information. With that in mind, she proposed that the Belfast First Stop Shop manage this Project using a two-fold approach, namely;
(i) the use of internal and external resources to update the database information; and
(ii) the development of an online business directory with administration tools to update the system.
The First Stop Shop would be responsible for sourcing the expertise required for the Project.
Accordingly, she recommended that the Sub-Committee agree to fund the project in the sum of £45,000 in order to develop an on-line database for the Council’s website and update of the existing database information on the basis that the Council would remain the proprietor of the Business Database, with First Stop Shop, as part of its operational plan, being responsible for updating the system on a continuous basis.
The Sub-Committee adopted the recommendation.
Belfast GEMS
The Sub-Committee agreed to note the contents of the report which had been prepared by the Head of Economic Initiatives in relation to the progress which had been achieved in respect of the Belfast GEMS Project. (This should be requested under Freedom of Information)
East Belfast Working Group
The Sub-Committee considered a report in relation to a meeting which had been convened by Castlereagh Borough Council in respect of the economic decline within the East Belfast area. A copy of the report, with the exception of Appendix 1, referred to therein, is set out hereunder:
“Purpose of Report
To appraise Members of the outcome of a meeting convened by Castlereagh Borough Council to discuss economic decline in East Belfast.
Background
Following the Economic Development Sub-Committee meeting of 8th September, 2004, Members agreed that Belfast City Council should be represented at a Special meeting organized by Castlereagh Borough Council on managing economic decline in East Belfast. The meeting was held on 9th September and was attended by Councillor Newton as well as elected representatives of Castlereagh and Ards Borough Councils and Northern Ireland Housing Executive and Castlereagh College. East Belfast Partnership Board were invited but were unable to attend: they submitted a paper in their absence which outlined the key initiatives in which they were involved in running in East Belfast (Appendix I).
Members present from each of the 3 Councils collectively identified the need for action to manage ongoing economic decline highlighted by company closures and job losses. The resultant social impacts also drew attention to the pockets of deprivation masked by perceived wealth of the area as a whole. Members raised concerns that the downward trends required arresting given the fragile state of the East Belfast economy, largely centred on manufacturing which was undergoing a massive restructuring. Frustration had emerged following a meeting with Minister Pearson and his staff as no direct support was forthcoming.
Several suggestions were put forward for inclusion in an action plan including retraining and skills enhancement, retaining industrial land zones and avoiding their transfer to housing within the urban core, support for indigenous business especially micro enterprises, establishment of advance incubator units to promote new business starts, creating linkages with 2 universities and 3 colleges of Further Education.
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There was unanimous agreement that the 3 Councils of Belfast, Castlereagh and Ards should join together to lobby Government for support and demand remedial action based on the construction of a sound business case.
To this end it was proposed that a Joint Working Group comprised of 3 elected representatives each from Belfast, Ards and Castlereagh Councils should be established. The Working Group would take responsibility for an analysis of the current status of the local economy and mapping of initiatives underway before identifying gaps and proposing actions to redress market failures. It was also proposed that an officers group be established to support the elected members Joint Working Group and that they should bring on board all relevant and appropriate agencies to assist in the collation of data and the creation of a plan. It was further proposed that Castlereagh should lead the Working Group.
Both Castlereagh and Ards agreed this proposal at the meeting and Belfast undertook to refer the issue back to its Economic Development Sub-Committee for consideration.
Issues for Consideration by Belfast City Council
Invitation to participate on Joint Working Group via nomination of 3 elected representatives and an officer to the support group.
Council have been asked to work in partnership with Castlereagh and Ards Council to coordinate actions in relation to redressing economic decline in East Belfast. It is envisaged that a comprehensive assessment of the extent of the problem will be undertaken as a prelude to the determination of a way forward.
Council have also been asked to agree to officer participation as support to the Joint Working Group.
Members from East Belfast are the natural focus from which to draw representation. Committee should consider whether the 3 representatives should be drawn from the;
i. Economic Development and/or Development Committee
ii. Through Party Group nominees (may need to seek additional places on Joint Working Group)
iii. From elected representatives of particular wards e.g. Victoria and Pottinger.
iv. A combination of the above
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The Joint Working Group will have to consider the boundary of the area in which they wish to apply analysis and review. At this stage the wards of Victoria and Pottinger will be wholly included.
Members are also asked to consider the role of Belfast City Council in relation to the overall Joint Working Group. Presently it is proposed that Castlereagh Working Group should lead the process. It is an option for Belfast to propose that it should lead the Group. In essence this would mean the following:
- Belfast City Council officers would take lead responsibility for facilitation and servicing of the Joint Working Group. This would involve preparing papers, proposals and coordinating the activity of each of the 3 Councils.
- A Belfast City Council elected representative would chair the Joint Working Group and lead any meetings with Ministers of Government representatives and finally assist in moving the Group towards a clear outcome.
- Belfast City Council may be best placed to coordinate this activity given that Belfast City is heart of the metropolitan area.
- Much of the information required for the in-depth analysis of the current situation in East Belfast is already held by Belfast City Council.
Environmental Implications
None.
Equality Considerations
None.
Capital City Strategy Reference
3.1 To drive the economic growth of Belfast.
LED Plan Reference
Fostering neighbourhood renewal.
Budget
N/a.
E Development (Economic Development) Sub-Committee,
3595 Wednesday, 6th October, 2004
Recommendations
- To agree to participate on a Joint Working Group with Castlereagh and Ards to tackle economic decline in East Belfast.
- Subject to the above, to agree a method of selection of 3 nominees to the Joint Working Group and to implement the same.
- To agree that an officer fully participates on the support group to the Joint Working Group.
- To consider Belfast’s role on the Joint Working Group.
Decision Required
To agree the foregoing recommendations.”
Several Members expressed concern that the Council’s officers were being requested to take the lead responsibility for facilitating and servicing the proposed Working Group and that officer participation in this regard would place considerable pressure on the staffing resources within the Economic Development Unit. The view was expressed that the Council already provided financial support to the East Belfast Partnership Board to undertake initiatives within the East Belfast Area.
After further discussion, during which the Sub-Committee expressed its support for the initiative of Castlereagh and Ards Borough Councils in addressing economic decline within the East Belfast area, it was
Moved by Councillor Crowe, Seconded by the Deputy Lord Mayor (Councillor O’Donnell),
That the Sub-Committee agrees not to participate on the above mentioned Working Group.
On a vote by show of hands 8 Members voted for the proposal and 1 against and it was accordingly declared carried.
Business Ireland Show 2005
The Sub-Committee agreed to defer consideration of a report in relation to the possible funding of the Business Ireland Show, which would be held in Belfast during the period from 27th till 28th April, 2005, to enable further information to be obtained.
Creative Industries Showcase
The Sub-Committee considered the undernoted report in relation to the holding of a Creative Industries Showcase event:
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Wednesday, 6th October, 2004 3596
“Purpose of Report
To update Members on progress on the Creative Industries Showcase and to request support for the event to promote Belfast’s Creative Industries in the Global Marketplace.
Background
Members will be aware that Council intervention in the creative industries is identified as a Priority action area in the Council’s Local Economic Development Plan 2002 – 2006, ‘Sustaining Competitive Advantage’ and Belfast’s ‘Capital City’ agenda 2003 2006. The intervention of Belfast City Council in the creative industries will enable industry, wealth, employment and quality of life to grow, thus enhancing the image of the city as one of creative excellence, forward thinking, innovative and vibrant.
Members will be aware that, at the Development (Economic Development) Sub-Committee of 2nd June, 2004, it was agreed by Sub-Committee to a programme of activities to support the creative industries in Belfast which included a showcase event designed to promote the wealth and breadth of the creative and artistic talent in Belfast City and provide business opportunities for participants to work at an international level. Approval was given in principle for the showcase event and it was agreed that a plan and detailed costing for the event would be presented to members at a later date. It is now recommended that Members consider support for the enclosed plan for the Creative Belfast Showcase.
This sector specific visit is in line with the Friends of Belfast action plan for 2004–2005 approved by Members at the meeting of the Economic Development Sub-Committee on the 2nd June, 2004, where members approved for US visits to be themed around Belfast City Council supported initiatives such as Tourism, Investment, Civic and sector specific promotion.
In addition, £15,000 was approved through the Friends of Belfast initiative for the support of the Creative Industries showcase and participation of the Friends of Belfast Network in New York and Boston.
Through collaboration between the Economic Development Unit’s work in the Creative Industries and the Friends of Belfast Network, New York and Boston have been identified as cities offering opportunities for business development in the creative field and provide a unique platform from which Belfast City Council and representatives from the Creative Sector can develop strategic linkages and partnerships, business opportunities, sales and joint partnerships.
E Development (Economic Development) Sub-Committee,
3597 Wednesday, 6th October, 2004
The Creative Industries in New York and Boston
New York
Creative Enterprise is a $9.2 billion industry in New York City, and it's growing exponentially thanks to the presence of approximately 4,000 high-tech and new media companies, ranging from small start-ups to large enterprises. New York has also become one of the highest growth centres for TV, radio, film, recording, publishing, theatre and fashion. Your business can share in this growth.
Boston
The creative economy in the Boston area generates $6.6 billion dollars in revenue alone with 3.5% of the region's total workforce, employed by the creative sector. The Boston Redevelopment Authority guides the City's development review process and manages key services and incentives in support of a strong economy for Boston.
In order to develop this programme, ongoing liaison has taken place with a range of organisations both in Belfast and the USA who welcome the opportunity to assist and facilitate the Creative Belfast Showcase. These include the Northern Ireland Bureau in Washington, the Mayors Office for Film and Television, New York, Boston Redevelopment Authority, Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, Invest NI, Momentum and the Northern Ireland Film and Television Commission.
Belfast City Council’s Culture and Arts unit will also play a key role in the showcase event with the view to attract showcase participants and interested parties in New York and Boston to the proposed Arts Awards Event in Belfast late 2005 approved at the Development (Arts) Sub-Committee Wednesday, 5th May, 2004.
Proposal
Creative Belfast – Creative Industries Showcase.
The Creative Belfast event will be a collaborative project between the Council’s Friends of Belfast Network and the programme of support for the Creative Industries. The event is designed to showcase the wealth of expertise, innovation, economic value and investment opportunities available in Belfast’s creative sector to a targeted audience in the USA.
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Wednesday, 6th October, 2004 3598
It is envisaged the Creative Belfast Showcase will take place in March 2005 (date to be confirmed) in Boston and New York, utilising the economic development’s Friends of Belfast network to assist with meeting facilitation, marketing and promotion and Industry sector visits.
The Creative Industries showcase will further enhance Belfast City Council’s programme of support for the Creative Sector in Belfast, most notably the THIMBLE Network, which groups Belfast based Textile and Fashion companies to work together in the improvement and development of promotional material and market research. Currently, the Thimble network is attracting great interest form retailers in the Boston area, with a view to selling and distributing the product portfolio of the group.
The six day programme (3 in New York, 3 in Boston) will feature a wide range of organisations from the arts, advertising, fashion, film and television, Software and Digital Media sectors with the aim to network with other businesses in New York and Boston, promote their products and services, meet potential clients and raise the economic profile of Belfast to the global marketplace.
The Showcase event will also provide an opportunity to hear presentations by emerging and established businesses working in Belfast’s creative sector, including success stories of projects, and providing information on the kinds of support available for the creative sector in the region and opportunities for investment, collaboration and business development.
A proposed format and itinerary is outlined below:
- ‘Creative Belfast’ Showcase – Presentation of Belfast’s Creative Industries from local entrepreneurs in the Film, Craft, Digital Media, Fashion and Software sectors followed by networking.
- Business Exchange Meetings and Visits - Targeted appointments for those wishing to make international connections and develop new investment opportunities.
- Belfast Symposia – Overview on the work of Belfast City Council in the development of the creative industries and the promotion of Belfast as a place to live, work and visit.
- Industry Sector Visits - Tours of selected companies and organisations wishing to share best practice examples of collaboration, clustering, education and International sales and marketing.
- Friends of Belfast – This event will also coincide with the Friends of Belfast quarterly visit.
E Development (Economic Development) Sub-Committee,
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Day 1 Day 2 Day 3
AM
Showcase Set-up Sector Visits (e.g. Mayor’s Office for Film and TV, Boston re-development Authority, NI Bureau Washington, NYC Fashion District) Private Sector one to one meetings Friends of Belfast Lunch
PM
Creative Sector Reception
Belfast City Council Symposia
Creative Industries Showcase Business Networking
Private Sector one to one meetings
Meetings are currently underway with Invest NI and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure with regard the provision of finance to assist private sector organisations participating in the showcase and meeting organisation and facilitation. It is also envisaged that the NI Bureau in Washington will play a key role in PR and marketing activity of the event in the USA and identification of networking opportunities and site visits.
Project Costs
The total budget for the Showcase event will be £45,000. This will include flights, accommodation, development of promotional material and meeting facilitation, organisation, event hire and associated costs. Funding request from Council is a total of £20,000 with £15,000 already approved through Friends of Belfast and Invest NI have expressed interest in a basic contribution of £10,000 to subsidise business contribution but may be in a position to factor additional finance.
Contribution from partners: DCAL / Invest NI £10,000 Friends of Belfast £15,000 Belfast City Council - funding requested £20,000 Total £45,000
Total Cost: £20,000
Suggested Delegation
It is suggested that a delegation comprising the Chair and Deputy Chair of the Economic Development Sub-Committee accompanied by the Director of Development, Head of Economic Initiatives, the Economic Development Manager and the Creative Industries Officer. It is envisaged that representatives from the Creative Industries will also attend such as the Northern Ireland
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Wednesday, 6th October, 2004 3600
Film and Television Commission, Momentum and private sector nominees. Private sector participants and trade bodies will be subsidised through Invest NI and their own costs within this budget. A full delegate list will be presented to committee at a later stage.
Environmental Implications
None.
Equality Considerations
None.
Capital City Strategy Reference
3.1 Leaving a Legacy
LED Plan Reference
To support and develop business growth and competitiveness
To capitalise on new growth sectors by creating economic conditions conductive to success.
Budgetary Implications
To support a Creative Industries Showcase to a maximum of £20,000.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Members;
i. Endorse the contents of the report
ii. Agree to support a Creative Industries Showcase to a maximum of £20,000
Decision Required
To approve the foregoing recommendations.”
After discussion, the Sub-Committee approved funding in the sum of £20,000 toward the costs associated with the Showcase and agreed that it be represented at the event by the Chairman (Councillor C. McGimpsey) and the Deputy Chairman (Councillor McCarthy) (or their nominees) and two officers of the Economic Development Section. In addition, the Sub-Committee approved the payment of the appropriate travelling, subsistence and attendance allowances in connection therewith.
Local Economic Development Plan
The Sub-Committee noted the contents of a report in relation to a promotional event in connection with the launch of the Local Economic Development Plan which had been held in The Edge, on Thursday, 23rd September.
World Trade Centre
The Sub-Committee considered the undernoted report in relation to the development of a World Trade Centre in Belfast:
“Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to update members on the development of the World Trade Centre in Belfast and to request approval to host a seminar to provide greater consultation with both the private and public sector.
Business Plan Update
Members will be aware that Belfast City Council, in October 2002, had, in equal partnership with the Dutch Development Company Amstelland, formerly the Multi Development Corporation, purchased a licence to operate a World Trade Centre in Belfast.
In order to drive forward the project in September 2003 Belfast City Council had undertaken a tender exercise in order to appoint a Consultancy firm to develop a robust three-year business plan for the Centre. Business Tourism Solutions (BTS), a company which had extensive experience of working in Belfast and knowledge of World Trade Centres, had been appointed as the Council’s Consultants in this regard.
Objectives of the business plan
The key components of the business plan that were explored as part of this process include:-
- Extensive consultation process with best practice review
- Aims and objectives of the WTCB (World Trade Centre Belfast)
- Assessment of options for implementation in short, medium and long-term
- Analysis of services and activities
- Market demand review
- Financial projections
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Key conclusions
Key conclusions arising out of the business plan include;
- there is no single WTC model to base the Belfast plan on and the model for Belfast must address local circumstances and objectives
- decisions are needed about the importance of (new) property in the (long-term) development of the WTCB
- business service delivery alone will not provide the revenue needed to sustain the WTC.
As a result of the BTS international research, it is recommended the WTCB specification must now address inter alia:
i. the importance of (new) property and the relationship with the joint licence holder, Amstelland MDC;
ii. the range of business services which need to be developed;
iii. the interrelationship of the planned WTCB and other business agencies, particularly (but not exclusively) those over which the Council has significant control and influence, must be determined;
iv. the business plan for WTCB has to address other revenue streams (including grant and sponsorship income);
v. the role of the WTCB in the promotion of Belfast must be agreed.
World Trade Centre Seminar
Following a special committee meeting, 25th August, 2004, members felt that additional research needs to take place in order to make a final decision on the implementation of World Trade Centre Belfast. This would include greater consultation with both the private sector and public sector and to investigate other World Trade Centres in the United Kingdom.
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Additionally, following a meeting of the Competitive Belfast Forum, 24th September, 2004, the group felt it important to raise awareness of the World Trade Centre concept and the benefits to Belfast through a showcase seminar event. This seminar will provide an opportunity to promote the concept of WTC Belfast whilst widening the consultation base among the cities business leaders and development agencies. Furthermore, it will attract key speakers and allow for an opportunity to network with other operational WTC’s.
Environmental Implications
None.
Equality Considerations
None.
Capital City Strategy Reference
To drive the economic growth of Belfast.
LED Plan Reference
To support and develop business growth and competitiveness.
Budgetary Implications
£3,000.
Recommendation
i. To note the comments of the report and approve the development of a showcase seminar event to be held in Belfast City Hall
ii. To approve expenditure of £3,000 for operational costs for the event.
Decision Required
To approve the foregoing recommendations.”
After discussion, during which it was agreed that the seminar would not be staged to promote the establishment of a World Trade Centre, but rather to inform interested parties of the concept of such a project, the Sub-Committee adopted the recommendations contained within the report.
Tender for Creative Industries E-Business Programme
The Sub-Committee was reminded that, at its meeting on 2nd June, it had agreed that a programme of activities to support Creative Industries in Belfast, including a showcase event, be designed to promote the creative and artistic talent within the City. In addition, the Sub-Committee had granted approval for an E-Business Programme to be designed to support ten small-medium enterprises within the sector to enhance and improve its businesses through the use of the internet, e-commerce, e mail, newsletters, websites and internets.
The Economic Development Manager reported that, in response to a public advertisement, ten tenders for the development of a Creative Industries E-Programme for a period of one year, had been received. These had been evaluated by officers of the Economic Initiatives Section and the Procurement Unit, using a range of agreed criteria. (This should be requested under Freedom of Information)
She recommended that the Sub-Committee approve the acceptance of the most economically advantageous tender, that submitted by Parallel 56, 69 St. Vincent’s Street, Glasgow, in the sum of up to a maximum of £35,000.
The Sub-Committee adopted the recommendation, subject to the competition of form of contract.
Chairman
