Regional Start Initiative (RSI) New Business Start Programme 4G

Transcription

Subject
1)
Regional Start Initiative Update:
2)
New Business Start Programme
3) 4G Mobile Services and TV Interference
4) Mobile Phone Coverage – Dungannon Town Centre
5) Association of Town Centre Management
Reporting Officer
Fiona McKeown, Head of Economic Development
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
To provide Members with an update on key activities as detailed above.
2
Background
2.1
Regional Start Initiative (RSI)
All 11 Councils have now agreed to roll forward the Regional Start Initiative
Contract by Invest NI to at least March 2016, with Councils repaying expenditure
from the Transferring Functions Budget. Invest NI will continue to forward
updates to Councils on performance.
2.2
Currently (as outlined above) Invest NI have agreed to continue delivering the
RSI on behalf of Councils until at least March 2016, to enable Councils to
develop an ERDF Application to the new ‘Growth and Jobs’ Programme for a
future initiative, and to then procure delivery agents for this.
2.3
4G Mobile Services and TV Interference
In recent weeks, a number of complaints have been made to Members and
Officers from residents experiencing disruption of their Freeview TV signals in
the Cookstown area where 4G mobile broadband is rolled out. At the meeting on
14 January 2016, Council’s Development Committee requested an urgent
meeting is convened with the Chief Executive of at800 (Mr Ben Roome) and also
a representative of OFCOM to review the issues raised and address these.
2.4
Mobile Phone Coverage – Dungannon Town Centre
At the January 2016 Development Committee Meeting, clarity was sought on O2
and Vodafone mobile phone coverage in Dungannon town centre.
2.5
Association of Town Centre Management
The Association of Town Centre Management (ATCM) is the largest membership
organisation of its kind in Europe, dedicated to making sure town and city centres
reach their full potential. Two of the three legacy Councils were longstanding
members of this organisation.
3
Key Issues
3.1
Regional Start Initiative (RSI)
From 1 April 2015, the RSI Contract is being managed by Invest NI on behalf of
the 11 Councils until the end of the second Service Level Agreement period on
31 March 2016. Performance targets were established at the outset for the
above period (as per Invest NI’s Contract with Enterprise NI).
To date from 1 April-31 December 2015 the targets for Mid Ulster are
summarised below:
12 month Target for Mid Ulster Achieved
(1 Apr 2015 - 31 Mar 2016)
Business Plan Approvals
Jobs promoted
3.2
413
210
274
175
% towards
target
66%
83%
In December 2015, an ERDF Application for a new Business Start Programme
was submitted from the Councils’ Regional Start Initiative (RSI) Working Group
to the ‘EU Growth and Jobs Programme’ on behalf of the 11 Councils. Due to the
scale of the Application, this will now be subject to a comprehensive economic
appraisal process by Invest NI (the Growth and Jobs Programme managing
body) which may take approximately 3 months to complete.
Following submission, Councils received a letter from Invest NI (attached
Appendix 1) in relation to our commitment to this bid. In response to this, Mid
Ulster District Council has advised that, while we are currently content to be part
of this collaborative RSI Application, we also intend to explore and cost other
options to achieve the best value for the delivery of this programme in Mid Ulster.
When in receipt of further information, a Report will be presented to Members
setting out options for the way forward.
3.3
Invitation issued (Jan 16) to Mr Ben Roome from at800 to attend a public
meeting with Council representatives. Mr Roome replied to advise that in order
to determine whether they would attend a meeting, at800 required more specific
information from Council in relation to the areas outlined below;
i) quantifiable and specific data on the exact nature and number of complainants’
issues and statistics, (as at800’s data does not show a disproportionate number
of issues reported in Mid Ulster, compared with other areas in the UK);
ii) if complaints were primarily about policy issues, such as customers
disagreeing about the level of compensation on offer (including the issues of
those with satellite or cable) then a meeting would not change this as this was
determined by government.
He was advised that Council had provided assistance to residents who had
called about this issue and directed them to at800, however, many people
contacted a number of Elected Representatives and/or at800 directly, so Council
could not provide this information as it did not have a full record of issues relating
to another agency.
Council also requested a schedule of planned works for Mid Ulster – Mr Roome
advised this was deemed “commercial in confidence” as it involved a number of
providers and information was only released on a staged basis. He stated that it
was at800’s policy to raise awareness locally in advance that work was being
undertaken in an area and they circulated information to local authorities, elected
representatives, press, in addition to the mail drop. They would continue to
ensure that Council received advance notification and alerts of future works.
Mr Roome also agreed to send through at800’s data on contacts from Mid Ulster
customers and has advised that he is in regular contact with OFCOM and has
not been made aware of a disproportionately higher level of complaints from the
Mid Ulster area. The following is data provided by at800 as of 20 January 2016:
• Sent postcards about the support we offer to 2,138 properties in Mid Ulster at
potential risk of interference.
Had contact back from 161 Mid Ulster viewers (individual cases).
Sent 75 filters to 39 properties.
Provided engineer visits to 57 properties.
Surveyed four viewers in Mid Ulster following our engineer visit. All felt the
service they received was excellent. One viewer on Morgan’s Hill Road (BT80
8) stated that they "would give 10/10 for outstanding service".
• Compensated 35 viewers for work completed by independent installers.
• Received 11 direct complaints (7% of totals cases) from viewers, split into the
following:
o 1 for quality of work
o 1 for missed appointment
o 1 for time taken over at800 support
o 4 for not being mailed
o 4 for level of support for properties with cable and satellite
• Noted dissatisfaction (not direct complaints but where a viewer expresses
displeasure to one of our agents) about not receiving mailings from 21
viewers.
•
•
•
•
These interactions have been with viewers in the following postcode sectors:
BT45 5; BT45 6; BT45 7; BT45 8.
BT70 1; BT70 2; BT70 3.
BT80 0; BT80 8; BT80 9.
However, well over half of all interactions, visits, filters and compensation
requests have been to viewers in the BT80 8 postcode sector.
In terms of future work, at800 are in the process of mailing a further 1,118
properties in Cookstown (83), Dungannon (250) and Magherafelt (785). These
postcards relate to further 800 MHz masts that would be allowed to activate from
1 February 2016. Mr Roome has asked his shareholders whether he may
provide more data on the masts currently active in Mid Ulster and what - if
anything - could be shared about future activations. To date this information has
not been received.
Further correspondence received from Mr Roome on 28 January 2016
documents that at800 has;
•
•
•
•
Had contact back from a further 11 viewers in Mid Ulster
Sent a further 3 filters out to viewers.
Organised 5 more engineering visits.
Further 3 requests received for compensation (39 in total).
- 20 have been re-paid in full
- 10 have received £50 towards an independent installer.
- 1 was partially compensated with £15 as a gesture of goodwill for not
having received at800’s free filters
- 1 was provided with a £30 gesture of goodwill for time wasted when a
follow-up engineer visit didn’t occur.
- 5 have been declined due to eligibility
- 2 are currently pending a decision
Following January 2016’s Council Meeting, a further letter was issued to Mr
Roome, at800 inviting him again to attend a public meeting with local
representatives and others to discuss residents concerns surrounding the rollout
of 4G mobile services in Mid Ulster given the significant impact it has had on TV
interference.
3.4
At the January 2016 Development Committee Meeting, clarity was sought on O2
and Vodafone mobile phone coverage in Dungannon town centre. O2 report
that coverage in Dungannon town centre is good to very good with no mast
issues. However, as a result of O2’s modernisation programme to improve 2G
and 3G coverage and roll out 4G, customers may experience intermittent service
to their mobile devices. Vodafone have reported coverage is good in the town
centre; however, indoor coverage can be poor due to specific issues regarding
the insulation of some premises. A formal request has been submitted to both
companies seeking further information and clarification on future upgrade works.
A site visit has also been requested to one business that is experiencing specific
mobile signal problems to see if a solution can be found.
3.5
The Association of Town Centre Management (ATCM) is the largest membership
organisation of its kind in Europe, dedicated to making sure town and city centres
reach their full potential. Two of the three legacy Councils were longstanding
members of this organisation and it is recommended that Mid Ulster District
Council seek annual membership for a fee of £495+Vat.
4
Resource Implications
4.1
Financial
ATCM Membership from within existing budgets (£495 + Vat).
4.2
Human
Staff time
4.3
Basis for Professional/ Consultancy Support
None
4.4
Other
N/A
5
Other Considerations
5.1
None
6
Recommendations
6.1
Regional Start Initiative and New Business Start Programme
To note progress on the Regional Start Initiative Programme and New
Business Start Programme.
6.2
Members to receive and consider at800’s response.
6.3
Members to note progress.
6.4
Recommended to seek approval for annual membership of the
Association of Town Centre Management at a cost of £495+Vat to be
paid from existing budgets.
7
List of Documents Attached
7.1
Appendix 1 – Letter from Invest NI re: ERDF Application for new
Business Start Programme, dated 18 Dec 2015
7.2
Appendix 2 – Association of Town Centre Management invoice for
£495+Vat.
th
18
December2015
Dr Theresa Donaldson
Chief Executive
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council
Lagan Valley Island
The Island
Lisbu rn
BT27 4RL
Invest
Northern
Ireland
Building Locally
Competing Globally
Dear Theresa,
RE: APPLICATION FOR SUPPORT FOR NORTHERN IRELAND BUSINESS
START UP PROGRAMME (NIBSP)
I wish to confirm receipt of the application from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council,
in relation to the above programme on behalf of all 11 Councils, requesting support
from the Local Economic Development Measure of the EU Investment for Growth &
Jobs (IGJ) Programme.
th has not
The application form which was submitted electronically on December 14
been signed. I would be grateful if you as Chief Executive of the Lead Council for this
proposed programme would sign a hard copy of the application form, together with
the State Aid Declaration at Annex 2 and return to Patricia Copeland, Bedford
Square, Bedford Street, Belfast BT2 7ES, either by post or by scanned copy emailed
to patricia.copeIand(investni.com
This is a significant proposal in terms of scope and value and it is Invest NI’s
intention to move the application to the next stage of the assessment process; that of
an independent external economic appraisal, appointed and funded by Invest NI in
line with protocol.
Invest NI has concerns with Appendix 8 to the application, which includes
expressions of interest from each of the 11 Councils. Invest NI is concerned that
some expressions of interest lack clarity in relation to Councils being fully committed
to the collaborative application. Invest NI is keen to ensure that the proposal put
forward on behalf of the Councils has the full support of the 11 Councils before
moving to the Economic Appraisal stage.
It is important to note that should any Council subsequently withdraw from the
NIBSP proposal during the assessment process, this will obviously change the
application/proposal put forward under the LED strand of the IGJ programme, hinder
the Economic Appraisal process and impact negatively on timescales.
A revised proposal submitted by Councils would lead to the requirement for re
appraisal which in turn would lead to additional cost. The additional cost associated
with any changes to appraisal requirements may have to be reimbursed by the
remaining Councils participating in the revised project.
Western Office
Kevhn Buildings
47 Kevlin Avenue
Omagh
BT78 1ER
T: 028 8224 5763
F: 028 9043 6536
Textphone: 028 9069 8585
Email: wo@investni.com
www.investni.com
www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk
Invest..
NorLhern
Ireland
Building Locally
Competing Globally
The key risk is the potential impact on the timeline for Councils to have Start Up
provision in place. Like Councils, Invest NI is keen to avoid a gap in provision. As
such, it is important to ensure buy-in at this stage and avoid potential issues and
delays downstream.
I would therefore be grateful if you would confirm by 8th January 2016 that Lisburn &
Castlereagh City Council is content for Invest NI to move this application to
Economic Appraisal stage and that all 11 councils are fully supportive of this joint
council proposal.
Should you have any queries in relation to the above, please do not hesitate to
contact me.
Yours Sincerely
Mary Gormley
EU & Partner Delivery Manager
Cc
Oonagh Hinds Executive Director Regional Business Invest NI
Hazel King, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council
Paul Kelly, Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council
Subject
Events Review 2015
Reporting Officer
Michael Browne
Contact Officer
Sharon Arbuthnot
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
To review and critically evaluate the Council’s portfolio of the strategic
events which were delivered during 2015 and make recommendations for
improvement for 2016/17.
2
Background
2.1
This report includes events that are public facing strategic events and not
events that are part of a normal scheduling of a facility or a department,
such as community relations or arts centres facilities.
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
Events are about participation, involvement and the creation and/or
development of a sense of identity/common interest in a safe and
enjoyable environment. These are important in contributing to the local
economy and developing partnerships with local businesses and
stakeholders within our community.
Mid Ulster District Council’s aim is to develop a district wide portfolio of
events that will enhance the quality of the Mid Ulster District Council citizen’s
community. In addition all our strategic events should increase the
reputation of Mid Ulster District Council as an area that delivers high quality
public facing events. Good quality strategic events also contribute to
increasing visitor numbers to the area and has an economic benefit to the
economy.
At all times the events team strive to increase the quality of the event
offering from one year to the next. By continually aspiring to grow the
events portfolio both in the quality and in frequency, this will regenerate a
more positive reputation for the District and help increase the
tourist/visitors potential.
Linking to our corporate plan, we are always looking at a more innovative
and creative approach in the planning and delivery of our events. At all
times the events team is mindful for the need to consistently strive for
improvement and to exceed expectations.
Events have an important part to play in contributing to achieving a good
quality of life in our society. However, it is vital that the management
organisation and arrangements of such events includes the highest levels
of safety and risk management to protect the Council, other agencies, the
participants and the attending public.
2.7
Many departments within the Council are involved in the delivery of
strategic events, however within Mid Ulster there has been a more
coordinated approach to ensure and greater strategic approach.
2.8
During and after all the 2015 strategic events, continuous research was
carried out to establish what worked well in terms of format and timing and
what areas need to be improved or changed.
2.9
In addition to improving the delivery and safety of Council events, going
forward we want to be in a position whereby our planning processes are
more efficient and the Council receives best value in terms of planning,
procurement and marketing.
3
3.1
Key Issues
3.2
Events
The three legacy Councils have all delivered wonderful events over the
years, however our research has shown that some events have become
repetitive and would benefit from slight improvements. There are others
that need a more radical rethink. Appendix 1. Shows all strategic events
listed and delivered in 2015 with current traffic light health check and
recommendations.
3.3
3.4
3.5
During the first nine months the Council’s events team have been involved
in the planning and delivery of all events, either directly or in a supporting
role to other departments. We have carried out research to identify areas
of improvement or change that could make a positive impact in the delivery
of events. Below we have identified some of the issues which have been
identified within the research.
Staffing Costs
The Council needs to look at uniformity with regards to staffing events,
some staffing costs are absorbed by other departments in addition to the
event budget, whereas in other events, staffing costs are taken from the
event budget. At peak times, there has been difficulties sourcing staff.
Further investigation into stewarding options is ongoing.
Event Admission
Depending on the objectives of the event this will determine if we charge
an entrance fee. Often an entrance fee will put a higher value of an event.
But we do feel that this will be dependent on the nature and type of the
event and a review of charging entrance fees be undertaken.
Street Traders
A district wide policy needs to be developed for street traders to identify
which events are most appropriate for them to trade at. We would also
recommend that we show preference to local Mid Ulster Council street
vendors. How vendors are recruited varies between the old legacy
councils, which causes inconstancies. We would recommend that we
develop a constant and district wide process and policy. During the
development of an events calendar for 2016/17, we would recommend that
we outline and agree our street trading requirements. What type of
traders? How much traders will have to pay to trade at our events, in
addition to the street trader licence?
3.6
Safety Advisory Group
All strategic events should be submitted to the Safety Advisory Group to
ensure all blue light agencies are aware and approval is obtained. The
events team works very closely with the officers from the SAG, however on
occasion when unforeseen last minute changes are required we need to
develop a mechanism to accommodate this.
3.7
Strategic Approach
A strategic approach is crucial to ensure all events being delivered
presents the best offering to the public, obtains the best value for money
and fulfil the Council objectives. This approach ensures internal policies
are adhered to and followed, and a coordinated district wide approach is
achieved which we will build upon.
4
Resources
4.1
Financial
Events are currently organised within current budgets.
4.2
Human
Officer commitment from various different departments.
4.3
N/A
4.4
Other
N/A
5
5.1
N/A
6
Recommendations
6.1
Members agree to that officers develop and schedule a list of strategic of
events for incoming year 2016/17 for the March Development Committee
taking into consideration the recommendations set out in this report
including objectives.
6.2
Investigate and propose a number of new strategic events for Mid Ulster
District.
7
7.1
Appendix 1 (Referred to in 3.2)
Appendix 1. List of Mid Ulster District Council’s strategic events.
Event
Recommendations
Style Festival
Link the Style Festival in Magherafelt and Fashion Fest in Dungannon into one Mid Ulster
District Festival and develop a district wide fashion week for all towns in the district.
Fashion Fest
Move the Heels on Hill Fashion Show to May/June and hold a Mid Ulster Fashion show in the
new event space at Ranfurly. Then later in the year hold another Festival event in Springhill,
Moneymore and link in the costume collection.
Continental Market
The Continental Market is an excellent signature event for Cookstown Town Centre.
Continue to develop the relationship between local traders and engage with local businesses
to get them involved. Introduce new offering
Continue to develop, invite schools to partake. Investigate showcasing the scarecrows at
Garden Show.
Research a new Unique Selling Point for this year’s event, enhance the children’s activities.
Reduce the music and staging.
Continue to develop on last year’s success, investigate a head line act. Look at expanding
across the entire district.
Great children’s event in a safe environment, continue to improve and develop.
Straw Festival
Picnic in the Park
Battle of the Buskers
Halloween Hooley
Maghera Fireworks
Dungannon Halloween
Spooktacular
Coalisland Halloween
Fireworks
Comedy Festival
Cookstown
Halloween Fireworks MUSA
Winter Craft Fair
Develop the Halloween Event in Maghera, to incorporate the Walled Garden. Investigate
setting-off the fireworks from the Rectory. Work in partnership with the local traders.
Given the backdrop this is one of the most specular fireworks displays in the District. Carry
out a review this site to expand the potential of the event.
An excellent event for Coalisland. Continue with this event in its current format.
An excellent well support event. Investigate making the festival into a more district wide
proposition.
Great excellent, in an excellent site. Minor improvements
The Winter Craft Fair is an example for best practise and has developed into a fantastic event
in the calendar.
Status
(Traffic Light
System)
Appendix 1. List of Mid Ulster District Council’s strategic events.
Dungannon Christmas
Lights Switch On
&
Dungannon Christmas Fair
Coalisland Christmas Lights
Maghera Christmas Lights
Cookstown Lights Switch
On
Magherafelt Christmas
Market
Magherafelt Christmas
Lights
Develop a new major signature event for Dungannon and the district. Rethink the switch on
and countdown to Christmas. Consolidate all small events into one major event that will
showcase and include the civic space, Ranfurly House and the event space to a national
audience.
Change of format regarding day – Council Officers should be more involved with this event, to
help relationships with businesses.
Based on the successful partnership between the businesses and Council Officers, continue
to develop this event in the Town Centre make improvements.
Continue in a similar format make improvements changes.
Magherafelt Christmas Market, continue to develop this signature event for Magherafelt Town
Centre, in conjunction with the Town Centre Christmas Switch On. This event attracts a high
volume of visitors. Ensure that the retailers buy into event. Investigate new elements.
Continue to develop this event in the Town Centre make improvements.
Traffic Light System
A complete change of the event in terms of
format and delivery
Retain the format of the event but make
significant changes to improve the event.
Retain the event in its current format, but
investigate improvements in the delivery.
Subject
Request from the Magherafelt & District Motor Club
Contact Officer
Michael Browne
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
To seek permission from the Council for the use of the Magherafelt &
District Motor Club to use the all-weather playing fields at the former High
School Grounds, Tobermore Road, Maghera.
2
Background
2.1
Mrs Bridie Averall, Competition Secretary from the Magherafelt & District
Motor Club Ltd has contacted the council requesting usage of the allweather pitch at the former High School grounds on the Tobermore, Road,
Maghera on Friday 6th May 2016 afternoon and on Saturday 7 May
2016
2.2
The club wish to use of the all-weather pitch, as a 'service area', for
competition rally cars. Where competitors, have an area to change tyres
and put fuel into the cars.
2.3
They ensure that they can provide all public liability and indemnify the
Council from any loss or damage, and ensure that competitors use ground
sheets, preventing spillages/damage to the ground.
3
Key Issues
3.1
If approved, ensuring that Council is not liable for any actions undertaken
by the Magherafelt & District Motor Club as a result granting permission to
use this site.
4
Resources NA
4.1
Financial
NA
4.2
Human
N/A
4.3
N/A
4.4
Other
NA
5
5.1
N/A
6
Recommendations
6.1
Recommend the Council approves the use of the site for the Magherafelt &
District’s to hold its annual rally, subject to Council being fully indemnified
from loss or damage.
7
7.1
N/A
Subject:
DCAL Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer
Reporting Officer: Liam Glavin, Head of Leisure
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
To update Members on the Consultation response to DCAL on their Sub
Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.
2
2.1
Background
The Department of Culture Arts and Leisure (DCAL) has published a
consultation paper setting out policy proposals for the Sub-Regional Stadia
Programme for Soccer. Responses are required by 22nd February 2016.
2.2
Officers outlined the background and key issues at the Development
Meeting on 14th January 2016. At that meeting Members asked for the
consultation response to be further strengthened and returned to this
meeting for agreement.
3
Key Issues
Further to the last report the following information has been made public by
DCAL:
3.1
The fund is managed and administered by DCAL.
3.2
The programme as detailed has been approved by the Executive and any
change to its content as a result of this consultation has to be agreed at
Executive level.
3.3
The proposed timelines are applications are to be invited in 2016, awards
processed in 2016/17, delivery in 2016/17 and possible extension for
larger projects to 2017/18.
3.4
The match funding proposed at 20% may be subject to State Aid
regulations if from a Local Authority.
3.5
There are plans for a Phase 2 with additional support to be made available
to Soccer, GAA and Rugby.
4
4.1
Resources
Financial
4.2
N/A
Human
N/A
4.3
N/A
4.4
Other
N/A
5
5.1 N/A
6
Recommendations
6.1
That Members agree the attached consultation response be sent by 22nd
February 2016 subject to Council approval.
7
7.1 Appendix 1 – DCAL Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer
Consultation Questionnaire response.
2
Appendix 1
Questions for Consideration
The Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure is seeking views on its draft
Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.
We would welcome your comments on any aspect of the draft programme.
PROGRAMME
Q1.
Do you agree with the decision to invest in soccer?
Strongly Agree X Agree Neither Agree/Disagree
Please provide your views:
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
The decision to invest in Soccer is to be welcomed, with Phase 2 of the Programme reportedly allowing
Soccer, GAA and Rugby to benefit which is also very welcome. Local Authorities have in the past been one
of the main providers of facilities for soccer in the MUDC area. Their role, expertise and knowledge should be
a key driver in the provision of facilities.
Do you have any alternative suggestions as to what the money should be invested in?
No
Please provide your suggestions:
Mid Ulster Council provides a number of high quality facilities that are heavily used by soccer e.g. Mid Ulster
Sports Arena, Meadowbank. The Council also strongly supports local soccer club financially and through
the provision of pitches throughout the district. Council would however be concerned that the proposals will
only benefit clubs who own their grounds. This may present inequality in the distribution of funding and not
adequately meet the demand for soccer investment.
Q2.
Do you agree with the proposal to funding 5 separate strands in the
programme?
Strongly Agree
Agree X
Neither Agree/Disagree
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
Funding of different strands will increase accessibility to funding. There seems to be pre-determined
outcomes e.g. Glentoran. Local Authorities should play a more significant role as they have the expertise, the
resources and management experience and can ensure sustainability and that strategic impact is maximised.
Do you have any alternative suggestions?
Yes
Currently the strands seem to favour Senior Clubs and Council believes it should be open to all clubs.
MUDC would like to see more funding disseminated across all Local Authorities.
TRIM Ref: DC1/15/64846
3
Q3.
Do you agree with the 20% partnership funding requirement for all
projects?
Strongly Agree
Agree
DisagreeX
Strongly
The significant match funding requirement may exclude some clubs from being able to access the
funding due to the financial pressures soccer clubs are facing. It is unclear how clubs may be able to
provide the match funding. If they apply to Local Authorities to support their applications there may be a
number of applications that Local authorities would have to prioritise, also issues over State Aid may
apply and may not be in a position to provide the match funding.
Yes
Clarity needs to be provided on the nature of the match funding required i.e. is it in kind or cash
requirement? Council would suggest reducing the match funding requirement.
Q4. Do you agree with the assessment criteria?
Strongly Agree
Agree
Disagree X
Strongly Disagree
Council would be concerned with the suggested assessment criteria. There appears to be a Senior Club
bias with no recognition of the importance of Local Authorities in providing quality soccer facilities. There
needs to be a greater emphasis on sustainability and regional and geographical accessibility. Council
would suggest that these criterial have greater weighting.
Yes
The key issues are sustainability, regional and geographical accessibility, complimenting existing facilities
to ensure Value for Money. Facilities need to be provided that are open to all i.e. youth, women/girls and
those with a disability. This will allow the Stadia programme to more closely align with other Sports
Development programmes e.g. EA 2020 programme delivered by Council and funded by Sports Council NI.
4
STRAND 1 - SAFE STADIA
(IFA Facilities Strategy specifies the redevelopment of The Oval in partnership with Glentoran
Football Club)
Q5. Do you agree with the proposal to invest in Safe Stadia?
Strongly Agree
Agree
Neither Agree/Disagree X
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
Council agrees that investment should be made to make stadiums safe. However Council is concerned
that only one club been identified. This strand, like the others, should be competitive and open to all
clubs/organisations not just one Senior Club. Local Authorities should also be eligible to apply.
Council would seek clarification on the rationale for The Oval being identified as the particular grounds
selected.
Yes
This strand should be competitive and open to all Clubs and Local Authorities.
Q6. Do you agree with the budget allocated to this strand of the programme?
Strongly Agree
Agree
Disagree X
Strongly Disagree
The rational for investment of £10 million to one club/facility is unclear. It could be sub-divided between
smaller facilities with a regional spread, complimenting existing facilities where possible.
Yes
Funding should be used to provide improved facilities across the sector which will be of use for adult and
youth football, women / girls and those with a disability. Local Authorities should be eligible to apply in
their own right removing perceived bias to individual clubs the Council operated facility.
5
STRAND 2 - SIGNIFICANT SUB REGIONAL STADIA
(Designated Venues Only)
Q7. Do you agree with the proposal to invest in significant Sub Regional
Stadia (Designated Venues only)?
Strongly Agree
Agree
Disagree X
Strongly Disagree
Council agreed that sub regional stadia should be of high quality. However Council is concerned that only
Senior Clubs i.e. designated venues are eligible to apply, an overlap with Strand 1. Again Local Authorities
should be eligible to apply as they have historically invested significantly in soccer ground and facilities.
Yes
The Strand should be open to all Clubs and Local Authorities. Those who can demonstrate use from a
wide range of other clubs and who are willing to ground share should be encouraged to apply making best
use of resources. It is essential that sub regional stadia are available and welcoming to the whole
community. This is a model that has been successfully proved at Mid Ulster Sports Arena.
Q8. Do you agree with the budget allocated to this strand of the
programme?
Strongly Agree
Agree X
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
£17m is a significant budget however it should be a challenge fund that is open to a wide range
of applicants.
No
The process should be open to all Clubs and Local Authorities for the benefit of all levels of football.
6
STRAND 3 - IFA CHAMPIONSHIP CLUBS
(Venues not designated under Safety at Sports Ground NI Order)
Q9. Do you agree with the proposal to invest in IFA Championship Clubs (not
designated under Safety at Sports Ground NI Order)?
Strongly Agree
Agree X
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
The Council agrees with the proposal to invest in IFA Championship Class. All clubs should be eligible.
Local Authorities should also be able to apply to upgrade existing facilities with the rationale that local
authorities can ensure use from all clubs i.e. shared spaces.
Yes
Open the call for all clubs and Local Authorities.
programme?
Strongly Agree Agree Neither Agree/Disagree Disagree X Strongly Disagree
Council considers that a challenge fund £3 million with max award £500k seems restrictive. Should
extensive work be required given the number of potential applicants. The budget limits the number of
clubs that will be able to avail of this strand.
Yes
Council would suggest that the budget for this strand be increased and that the maximum award limit be
removed or increased.
7
STRAND 4 - NATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE
Q11. Do you agree with the proposal to invest in a National Training Centre?
Strongly Agree Agree X Neither Agree/Disagree Disagree Strongly Disagree
Council agrees that investment should be made in a National Training Centre. However Council considers that the
Centre should be located outside of Belfast to allow greater accessibility. The location is crucial to reduce travel time
and ensure geographical spread across the whole Province. It should complement and provide added value to existing
facilities to ensure VFM, for example Mid Ulster Sports Arena has successfully provided facilities for soccer training
programmes. It has been a tremendous success due to its central geographic location, it being a shared venue for all
aspects of the community and the quality of the facilities provided.
Yes
To ensure maximum benefits and geographical spread consider 2 / 3 Regional Centres improving access
and travel time to provide fit-for-purpose Regional Centres.
programme?
£3 million for one National Training Centre will restrict the quality and type of facilities to be developed. It
is crucial to link with existing facilities that are well established and are accessible to the whole
community. Shared space is essential in ensuring the longer term success and sustainability of a
National Training Centre.
Yes
£3m budget will restrict development and the quality of a single National Training Centre facility.
Council considers it essential to link with existing leisure / sport providers who have experience
in managing this type of facility in both the short and long term e.g. Mid Ulster District Council
and development of Mid Ulster Sports Arena.
8
STRAND 5 - INTERMEDIATE AND JUNIOR FOOTBALL
(A single high quality facility)
Q13. Do you agree with the proposal to invest in a single high quality facility
for Intermediate and Junior Football?
Council would be concerned that investment in one single club may create possible shared space
accessibility issues. Local authorities such as Mid Ulster Council have invested heavily in providing
facilities for soccer. Mid Ulster Sports Arena is a facility that supports soccer at all levels of football. The
Arena is recognised as a shared space that is used by all the community.
Yes
Council would suggest investment in a number of existing facilities that are already providing strong,
regionally accessible venues that can cater for intermediate and Junior Football.
programme?
Strongly Agree
Agree
Neither Agree/Disagree X
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
£3million for a single facility seems restrictive and may not create the necessary high quality facility
expected to ensure VFM the Programme should develop existing facilities on a regional basis. This could
truly provide facilities with a high degree of excellence that are regionally assessable.
Yes
Allow for a number of smaller regionally based facilities which would be available for providing funding for
all levels of football; adult, youth, ladies / girls and those with a disability.
9
GENERAL
Q15: Please provide any other comments on any aspect of the draft programme?
Please provide any additional comments:
MUDC welcomes this investment in soccer and that the proposed Phase 2 will also include GAA and
Rugby. It is unfortunate that, along with Clubs, Local Authorities cannot apply for this funding. Local
Authorities have, for years, invested in soccer facilities throughout their districts and have provided
value for money, shared space high quality facilities used by all their target groups such as youth, ladies
/ girls and those with a disability. In Mid Ulster this has included Mid Ulster Sports Arena and
Meadowbank in Magherafelt. Council has also strongly supported soccer through the provision of
funding and pitches across the whole of Mid Ulster.
Council is concerned that the proposals will only benefit those clubs who own their grounds. The clubs
may find it difficult to meet that match funding requirements due to the financial pressures they are
under. This could limit accessibility to the suggested programmes.
Council strongly supports the need for local Authorities to have a bigger part to play in the suggested
Stadia Programme. Mid Ulster Council has been at the forefront of developing soccer and its facilities to
ensure they are of high quality and accessible to all sections of the community. Further investment in
Councils’ existing facilities e.g. Mid Ulster Sports Arena could through this Stadia Programme provide
the opportunity to deliver a higher quality facility that does not limit accessibility. This can only further
achieve the outcomes the Stadia programme aims to achieve.
10
CONSULTATION RESPONSES & FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
All responses will be treated as public and the Department will usually publish a
summary of responses following the completion of the consultation process. If you
would prefer your response to be treated as confidential, please let us know, stating
your reasons clearly.
Q16: Do you want your response to be treated as confidential?
No
If ‘YES’ please state clearly your reasons for requesting confidentiality:
If we are asked to disclose responses under freedom of information legislation, we
will take any requests for confidentiality into account. However, confidentiality
cannot be guaranteed.
We will handle appropriately any personal data you provide in accordance with the
Data Protection Act 1998.
For further information about confidentiality of responses, please contact the
Information Commissioner’s Office or see website
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Q17: Are you responding as an individual or on behalf of an organisation?
Individual
Organisation (if ticked, go to Q19)
(if ticked, go to Q18)
Q18: What is your Postcode?
Q19 What is the Postcode of your organisation?
Q20: What is the name of your organisation?
Thank you for taking the time to participate in this public consultation.
Please return completed responses to stadiumteam@dcalni.gov.uk or to
DCAL Stadia Team, Level 8, Causeway Exchange, 1-7 Bedford St, Belfast, BT2 7EG
11
Subject:
Outdoor Recreation NI request for funding for the
continuation of the MountainBikeNI consortium
Reporting Officer: Liam Gavin
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
To report on and seek a decision on continuing support for the financial year
2016/17 for the Outdoor Recreation NI (ORNI) led consortium of Councils
with Mountain Biking facilities.
2
Background
2.1
As previously reported in June 2015 in 2013 Belfast CC, Cookstown DC,
Down DC, Dungannon and South Tyrone BC and Newry and Mourne DC
and ORNI formed a consortium to market the then developing Northern
Ireland Mountain Bike facilities. The MountainBikeNI brand and website
were formed and a Mountain Biking Marketing Officer was recruited.
(Please see Appendix 1 for further details on MountainBikeNI and the
outputs specific to Davagh)
2.2
The consortium tendered a sponsorship opportunity which was won by
Chain Reaction Cycles (CRC) in February 2013 to finish in March 2015.
CRC contributed £10,000 per annum. This historically, along with
contributions from consortium Councils, has been used to employ the
Mountain Biking Marketing Officer who works on behalf of all consortium
Councils.
2.3
Outdoor Recreation NI (ORNI) are now requesting funding from all
previous consortium Councils to continue on with the MountainBike NI
website and to continue to employ the Mountain Biking Marketing Officer
for the year 2016/17. (Please see Appendix 2 for ORNI’s full proposal.)
3
Key Issues
3.1
Mountain Biking Marketing Officer
The Mountain Biking Marketing Officer delivers the key functions of the
MountainBikeNI Consortium, in order to continue to promote Northern
Ireland as a 'next must visit mountain bike destination' via website
management, digital marketing, campaigns, experiential development and
clustering, events and PR. The post ensures continuous liaison with local
businesses and stakeholders to ensure market opportunities are
capitalised upon and also provides ongoing liaison with consortium
partners and sponsors to ensure a collaborative approach providing mutual
benefits.
The cost to all consortium councils for 2016/17 is proposed as follows:
Newry, Mourne and Down
District Council
Rostrevor Trails (National Trail)
Castlewellan (National Trail)
Mid Ulster District Council
Davagh (National Trail)
Blessingbourne (Regional Trail)
Belfast City Council
Barnetts Demesne (Regional Trail)
£23,332
£16,666
£5,000
It is proposed by ORNI that sponsorship of £15,000 will be added to the
above to fully fund the Mountain Biking Marketing Officer.
3.2
Sponsorship Opportunity
The existing sponsorship arrangement with Chain Reaction Cycles
terminates at the end of March 2016 following a one year extension. ORNI
are proposing that a new sponsorship opportunity be offered for three
years until March 2019 and subject to contractual agreements being met
the sponsor will also be offered the first opportunity to negotiate for a
further three year deal. (See Appendix 3 for full proposal.)
3.3
Additional Support
Additional Support from each consortium Council is also requested for
advertising campaigns in the year 2016/17.
Davagh Autumn Advertising
Campaign
£1,500
Davagh Spring Advertising
Campaign
£5,000
Blessingbourne Campaign in
conjunction with Blessingbourne
Estate
TOTAL
£2,750
£9,250
Each Council can decide to take part in these Campaigns or not as they
see fit.
4
Resources
4.1
Financial
The above costs are within proposed Leisure and Tourism budgets for the
year 2016/17.
4.2
Human
N/A
4.3
This represents good value for money as agreed by all departments involved
including Marketing.
4.4
Other
N/A
5
5.1 N/A
6
Recommendations
6.1
That MUDC agree to contribute £16,666 to the MountainBikeNI
consortium, towards the cost of employing a Mountain Bike Marketing
Officer for 2016/17 only and that the workings of the consortium will be
reviewed for the following year. This is of course subject to agreement on
budgets for the next financial year and all consortium partners agreeing to
provide funding at the levels presented in 3.1. If that is not the case a
further report will be brought back to Council for consideration.
6.2
That MUDC agree to proceed with the advertising campaigns costing
£9,250 over 2016/17 only again subject to agreement on budgets for next
year and to Officers being satisfied with the value of the campaigns.
6.3
That MUDC do not agree to ORNI’s proposal of a three year plus three
year sponsorship opportunity being offered but agree to a one year
opportunity only with a possible one year extension subject to MUDC
approval. This is the direction that the other partner councils are also
taking.
7
7.1 Appendix 1: MountainBikeNI – Project Outputs 2012 - 2016
7.2 ORNI’s Proposal for the Delivery of the MountainBikeNI Consortium 2016/17
7.3 Appendix 2: Sponsorship Proposal
Appendix 1
PROJECT OUTPUTS
APRIL 2012 - JANUARY 2016
SIX SUCCESSES FOR THE DAVAGH FOREST TRAILS
1. Davagh Forest Trails Continue to Exceed Visitor Forecasts by 140%
Visitor forecasts calculated during an independent economic appraisal of the
Davagh Forest Trails (development stage) estimated that this national trail centre
would attract approximately 12,000 visits per year. In 2014 (calendar year)
electronic data counters recorder over 18,000 visits to the trails highlighting the
success of the trail centre and promotion to date.
Appendix 1
2. Critical Acclaim from Specialist Media & Pro Mountain Bikers
Outdoor Recreation NI has organised and hosted 8 FAM trips to the Davagh Forest
Trails which (alongside campaign advertising) have resulted in over 40 pages of
editorial coverage for the Davagh Forest Trails including cover feature of MBUK’s 50
Best Trail Centres in 2015.
“This is possibly the best bit of purpose-built trail we’ve ridden. Anywhere. It is rare
that I am lost for words to describe a trail, but Wolf’s Hill is pure perfection.”
SINGLETRACK MAGAZINE
“Has to be one of the best trail bike parks I've ridden.” BLAKE SAMSON, PRO
MOUNTAIN BIKER
3. MUDC Investment Multiplied by 4 in Specialist Media Marketing
Campaigns
Outdoor Recreation NI has delivered five targeted marketing campaigns totalling
£52,500 promoting Northern Ireland’s National Trail Centres in Davagh Forest,
Castlewellan and Rostrevor to Mountain Bike Enthusiasts in GB and Ireland. MUDC
has invested £13,000 in these campaigns in collaboration with consortium partners
and Tourism Ireland. Key outputs can be found on page 5.
4. Davagh Forest Trails Videos watched over 50,000 times
Outdoor Recreation NI has produced two bespoke videos for the Davagh Forest
Trails which at time of writing (Jan 2016) have been watched over 50,000 times. The
Davagh Forest Trails have also been incorporated into two official MTB Northern
Ireland videos (approx. 100,000 views) which have been shared via
MountainBikeNI.com and various specialist media channels.
5. Local MTB-Friendly Businesses Voted Best in Northern Ireland
Outdoor Recreation NI launched the annual MountainBikeNI.com Awards in Dec
2013 and the Shepherd’s Rest Pub & Campsite was ‘Best Spot for Après-Ride Pint’
in 2013 & 2014 as well as ‘Northern Ireland’s Favourite MTB-Friendly Non-Serviced
Accommodation’ in 2014. Outdoor Recreation NI used these awards to generate
positive PR for the Shepherd’s Rest in local press.
6. Over 200 Volunteer Man Hours Delivered on Davagh Forest Trails
The MountainBikeNI.com Trails Team boasts over 90 volunteers, 22 of whom are
specifically registered to carry out trail maintenance on the Davagh Forest Trails.
Outdoor Recreation NI has coordinated the delivery of 6 volunteer sessions (213
man hours) at Davagh Forest and provided trail maintenance training for 15
volunteers on the Davagh Forest Trails in August 2014.
Appendix 1
BACKGROUND
Outdoor Recreation NI developed the concept of the MountainBikeNI Consortium in
April 2012 as a proactive model to ensure Northern Ireland maximised the opportunity
presented by the development work on mountain bike trail centres in Davagh Forest,
Barnett Demesne (Belfast), Castlewellan and Rostrevor. These trail centres all opened
between April – June 2013.
The aims of the MountainBikeNI Consortium were:
• To establish one consistent brand for mountain biking in Northern Ireland
• To generate economies of scale during development of visitor interpretation
• To encourage ‘cross-sell’ between Northern Ireland official mountain bike trail
centres
• To act as a forum to openly discuss best practice re: trail centre management
procedures
• To collectively combine to develop one strong nationwide sponsorship
opportunity
DELIVERY FOR DAVAGH
2013 – 2015
From April 2012 – March 2015, the consortium was delivered by an Outdoor Recreation
NI employed a Mountain Bike Marketing Officer at a cost of £46,666 per annum incl.
National Insurance contributions, pension, travel/subsistence, management costs and
office overheads etc. The majority of this cost was supported by Outdoor Recreation
NI’s core funding and revenue generated through management fees from other nonmountain bike related projects. Mountain Bike Trail Managing Councils contributed to
costs against agreed outputs.
With the Davagh Forest Trails nearing completion, Cookstown District Council formally
joined the consortium in February 2013. Across 2013 – 2014 and 2014 – 2015 the
council contributed £4,600 for the development of visitor interpretation at Davagh
Forest, mapping, trail cards, photography, bespoke destination guide and website
profile (including ongoing maintenance). Outdoor Recreation NI covered the capital
costs for the development of the framework for the MoutainBikeNI.com website and
supporting e-commerce and e-marketing integration. See full breakdown of costed
outputs and examples of work delivered in Appendix 1.
Following the official launch of the Davagh Forest Trails in May 2013, Outdoor
Recreation NI also delivered a number of specialist marketing campaigns detailed
overleaf.
2015 - 2016
Due to significant reductions in Outdoor Recreation NI’s public funding, the
MountainBikeNI Consortium has significantly restructured for 2015 – 2016. To ensure
the continued successful delivery of the consortium, National Trail Centres such as
Davagh Forest Trails via Mid Ulster District Council agreed to contribute £11,666 per
annum (Breakdown of Consortium investment in Appendix 2.) to the role of the
Mountain Bike Marketing Officer.
Role of the Mountain Bike Marketing Officer – examples of marketing work in
Appendix 3.
• Secretariat for the MountainBikeNI Consortium
• Communicating with public through the following MountainBikeNI.com channels:
Appendix 1
•
•
•
•
•
o MountainBikeNI.com – daily content management incl. E-Commerce
platform
o Blogs & E-Marketing – monthly blogs & E-newsletters sent to over 10,500
consumers
o Social Media – Daily engagement with social media database of over
18,000 users
o Pro-Active PR – focusing on specialist media as well as local and national
press
Liaison with Tourism Northern Ireland re: tour operators and media FAM trips
Creation and distribution of business development toolkits for private sector
Delivery and ongoing negotiation of national mountain bike sponsorship
arrangement
Strategic planning of European and International standard MTB events at each
trail centre
Management of nationwide mountain bike volunteer ranger scheme
MARKETING CAMPAIGNS
2013 – 2015
With a strong marketing platform established, Outdoor Recreation NI offers Consortium
partners the opportunity to partake in two marketing campaigns per year targeting
‘Mountain Bike Enthusiasts’ in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. To date, only
trail managing councils of National Trail Centres i.e. Davagh Forest, Castlewellan and
Rostrevor have taken part in these bespoke campaigns.
Campaign Date MUDC
Partner Investment Total Campaign
Investment
Budget
Autumn 2013
£1,500
£4,500
£6,000
Spring 2014
£3,500
£10,500
£14,000
Autumn 2014
£1,500
£4,500
£6,000
Spring 2015
£5,000 incl. £1,175 £17,000 incl. £7,000 £22,000
from trail card
from Tourism
sales
Ireland
Autumn 2015
£1,500
£3,000
£4,500
TOTAL
£13,000
£39,500
£52,500
The table above illustrates the economies of scale enjoyed by Mid Ulster District
Council (previously Cookstown District Council) from taking part in these collaborative
targeted marketing campaigns. See an overview of key campaign outputs below. It
must be noted, these marketing campaigns have benefited greatly by being able to
exploit preferential advertising rates through the sponsorship relationship with Chain
Reaction Cycles. Campaign artwork etc. can be found in Appendix 4.
Appendix 1
Appendix 1. Breakdown of Outdoor Recreation Fees paid by Cookstown District
Council 2013 - 2015
Item
ORNI Fee
Trail Guides
£500
• 1 day accurately plotting trails and elevations on GIS and
liaising with OSNI re license and suitable base map
• 1 day liaison with design agency re name tags and
annotations
Information Panels
£250
• 1 day ORNI Officer’s time to adapt trail guide to panel
format
Photo Shoot
£500
• 2 day ORNI officers time – 1 to attend photo shoot
and 1 to arrange logistics
Destination Guide
£1,750
• 7 days ORNI Officer’s time to research and create
content, liaise with graphic and web designer
Web Maintenance
£800 per year x 2
years = £1,600
• Ongoing maintenance of destination guide and events
profile
• ½ hour per week x 52 weeks
Total
£4,600
Trail Cards & Information Panels
Appendix 1
Appendix 1
Photo Shoot
Appendix 1
Destination Guide
Appendix 1
Website Profile
Online / Offline PR
Appendix 1
Appendix 1
Appendix 1
Appendix 1
Appendix 2. Mountain Bike Marketing Officer - SO1 - NJC scale SO1 spinal
points (29-31) and Breakdown of MountainBikeNI Consortium Investment 2015 –
2016.
Expenditure
2015-2016
Salary / NI / Pension
36909
Running Costs
6000
Travel & Subsistence
1750
Training / Trips / Conference
2000
Mgt / Finance Overheads
13200
TOTAL
59859
Source
Sponsorship
National Trail Centre
• Rostrevor
• Castlewellan
• Davagh
Regional Trail Centre
• Blessingbourne
• Barnett Demesne (Belfast)
Total
Amount / £
15,000
11,666
11,666
11,666
5,000
5,000
60,000
Appendix 1
Appendix 3. Examples of MountainBikeNI.com Marketing Work 2015 – 2016
Monthly E-Newsletters & Blogs sent to 10,500 contacts across NI, ROI & GB
Appendix 1
Appendix 1
Social Media – Current database of over 18,000 contacts (133,000 engagements)
Appendix 1
Appendix 1
Davagh Rocks #Tag Campaign
To date – Over 170 shared user photos for #DavaghRocks on Instagram
Marketing Campaigns Examples 2013 - 2015
Appendix 1
Appendix 1
Campaign Inserts – 28,000 in MBR (June 2015) & 4,000 distributed at London Bike
Show
Appendix 2
Proposal for the delivery of the MountainBikeNI Consortium 2016 -2017
Outdoor Recreation NI has prepared this proposal in order to request support from trail
managing councils for the period 1st April 2016 – 31st March 2017.
This proposal outlines:
• Job description of the Mountain Bike Marketing Officer – detailing both outputs and
KPIs for the role
• Added value gained from adopting a consortium approach
• Delivery costs for the MountainBikeNI Consortium
• Proposed campaign costs
• Contribution breakdown per trail managing council and sponsors
Appendix 2
Job Description - Mountain Biking Marketing Officer - Outdoor Recreation Northern
Ireland
Salary:
NJC Staff Officer Grade
Responsible to:
Northern Ireland
Business Development Manager - Outdoor Recreation
Responsible for:
Delivering the key functions of the MountainBikeNI Consortium in order to continue to
promote Northern Ireland as a 'must visit mountain bike destination' via website
management, digital marketing, campaigns, experiential development and clustering,
events and PR. Ensuring continuous liaison with local businesses and stakeholders to ensure
market opportunities are capitalised upon. Ensuring ongoing liaison with consortium
partners and sponsors to ensure a collaborative approach providing mutual benefits.
*denotes where extra programme budget may be required on a case per case basis
1) MountainBikeNI Consortium
• Act as the Secretariat for the MountainBikeNI Consortium - minimum of 3 meetings
per annum
• Agree meeting dates, venue, agenda and circulate minutes
• Prepare and agree annual work programme and provide a progress report on a
quarterly basis
• Agree campaign budgets on an annual basis
• Complete any relevant funding or award applications on behalf of the Consortium
2) MountainBikeNI.com Website
•
Manage and maintain the MountainBikeNI.com website including:
o All Trail Centres
 Manage Trail Centre Profile including event calendar in liaison with
trail managers
 Update of Trail Conditions (diversions, closures etc) as required in
liaison with trail managers
o
•
•
•
National Trail Centres Only
 Annual update of downloadable online destination guides for
'Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion' and 'Tyrone & Sperrins'
 Proactive liaison with local tourism service providers (accommodation
and eatery) to ensure their web profiles are targeted to the mountain
bike market and offers are available in line with campaigns
Grow unique visitors to website by 10% year on year
Continue to provide high quality and accurate information and content for Tourism
Northern Ireland's consumer website DiscoverNorthernIreland.com
Provide accurate information and content for councils’ tourism websites
e.g. www.visitmournemountains.co.uk , www.discovertyroneandsperrins.com
•
Appendix 2
Proactive Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) to ensure competitive Google Ranking for
key terms in both Great Britain (GB) and Republic of Ireland (ROI) markets
3) Trail Cards - National Trail Centres Only
•
•
•
•
Manage and maintain the e-commerce platform within MountainBikeNI.com
Proactively engage with tourism service providers and relevant retail outlets to
encourage stocking and sale of trail cards
Facilitate any reprint / redesign of trail cards*
Provide quarterly report of trail card sales within overall work programme report
4) Campaigns*
•
•
•
•
Create and manage the annual multi-channel specialist media campaigns in GB and
ROI to include editorial, advertorial, advertising (online / offline bundles)
Agree level of support from National (GB & ROI) and Regional (ROI Only) Trail
Centres
Engage and secure co-operative support from Tourism Ireland for GB campaigns
Identify potential campaign partners for both distribution and funding
5) Digital Marketing (*within campaigns budget)
•
Create and manage implementation of the annual content, social media and emarketing plan against key segments and trigger points
•
E-marketing:
o Grow segmented CRM Database by 20% per annum
o Create and circulate targeted e-newsletters
o National - Incorporated in min 8 e-newsletters per annum to NI, ROI, GB
o Regional - Incorporated in min 3 e-newsletters per annum to NI, ROI
•
Social Media
o Adapt social media delivery against evolution of channels and tactics
o Grow social networking platforms by 20% per annum
 Facebook / Twitter
• Promote National Trail Centres via 80% of posts and Regional
Trail Centres via 20%
 Instagram - Manage MountainBikeNI account and National Trail Centre
# Campaigns
 Youtube - Manage MountainBikeNI account and National Trail Centres
Campaigns
 Tripadvisor / Google Places - Manage profile for National Trail Centres
•
Blogs
o National - Incorporated in min 8 blogs per annum to NI, ROI, GB
o Regional - Incorporated in min 3 blogs per annum to NI, ROI
Appendix 2
6) Experiential Development & Destination Clustering - National Trail Centres Only
•
Local Business Support:
o Deliver an annual workshop per trail centre for local tourism service
providers (councils to provide room hire and refreshments) – See Appendix A
o Proactive liaison with local tourism service providers (accommodation and
eatery) to ensure their offering is targeted to the mountain bike market and
offers are available in line with campaigns
o Deliver on-line marketing support toolkit for local tourism service providers
including visitor profiles and requirements, product and service advice,
marketing recommendations / opportunities and best practice benchmarking
o Provide an advisory service to local tourism providers as to how to make their
business 'MTB Friendly' and engage within marketing campaigns
o Distribution of quarterly e-newsletters to relevant stakeholders re marketing
campaign updates, promotional opportunities and support
•
Mountain Bike Friendly Accommodation
o Proactively engage with Tourism NI to encourage role out of the Mountain
Bike Friendly Accommodation Scheme
•
Destination Clustering
o Proactively incorporate wider tourism messaging within MountainBikeNI
promotional tactics e.g. Halloween in Derry with Davagh Forest Night Enduro,
Festival of Flight with Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails, Fiddlers Green
Festival with Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails
o Provide the structure for tourism service providers to cluster authentic
mountain biking experiences within the wider tourism offering particularly
around the 'Coast and Lakes' and 'Unique Outdoors' experience pillars
7) PR
• Generate PR to the equivalent advertising value of £150,000 per annum
• Pro-actively engage with specialist media, Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland
and other relevant partners to deliver a min 2 FAM trips from GB (National Trail
Centres) and min 1 FAM trip from ROI (National and Regional)
• Create and circulate positive media stories to local and NI media re mountain biking
and events, ensuring prominent local authority message
• Monitor and measure PR
8) Sponsorship Liaison - National Trail Centres Only
•
In partnership with National Trail Centre managing councils recruit a title sponsor for
MountainBikeNI.com and the National Trail Centres
•
•
Appendix 2
Agree annual support programme with sponsors and act as key liaison to maximise
benefits of both parties
Manage the ongoing relationship with the sponsor
9) Brand Delivery*
•
•
Assist trail managing councils with production of relevant artwork e.g. trail signage
to ensure consistency of MountainBikeNI brand
Lead in delivery of council promotional photo shoots to ensure image portfolio is
suitable against brand segments
10) Events – National Trail Centres Only
•
•
•
•
Agree event plan for each trail centre with councils
Liaise with Cycling Ireland on behalf of the consortium to gain endorsement for
International and National Mountain Bike event bids
Act in an advisory / support capacity to councils in the preparation of event bids
Assist local event organisers in promotion of large events at National Trail Centres
11) MTB Research
•
•
Accurately convey to key stakeholders the findings of the Consortium’s MTB
Research Report prepared by Cogent Management Consulting
Proactively liaise with Tourism Northern Ireland to ensure their MTB Research
Project meets the needs of the Consortium
12) MountainBikeNI Trails Team (Volunteer Ranger Scheme)*
• Lead the recruitment of MTB volunteers and manage database
• Communicate dates of maintenance days and allocate volunteers
• Manage MountainBikeNI Trails Team Facebook Group
• Proactively publicise the work of the MountainBikeNI Trails Team
• Organise a training and reward programme in conjunction with the trail sponsor
13) Customer Interaction
• Deal with customer enquiries via telephone, email and social media in a timely
manner
14) Advisory Service – Trail Centre Specific
• Barnett Demesne
o Annual audit current trail network / review previous inspections to identify
any deficiencies
o Assist with identification of remedial actions and associated documentation
for contractors
o Ongoing advisory service based on management / maintenance good practice
from other MTB sites in UK and Ireland
o Manage the MTB Event Application Process
•
Appendix 2
Blessingbourne
o Act in an advisory capacity, on an ongoing basis to Council / Lowrys - to
include (not exclusive):
• Accident & Emergency Evacuation Plan
• Management Plan
• Bike Hire Offering
Added value gained from adopting a consortium approach
Outdoor Recreation NI is able to provide the following added value to those councils
supporting the MountainBikeNI Consortium:
Consortium Approach
A consortium approach provides the following benefits:
• Economies of scale in campaign costs, project costs such as MTB Research
• The ability to cross sell between trail centres i.e. consumers interested in or visiting
the Mournes based trails will learn about the Davagh Trails and vice versa
• A greater potential to attract (via tender) a sponsor
• Improved brand, destination and product recognition outside Northern Ireland
Marketing Foundation
The following marketing foundation is already in place – reducing the need for supporting
councils to further invest elsewhere:
• MountainBikeNI.com website
• E-marketing Database of 10,500
• Social media following of 17,500
• Strong relationship with MTB journalists demonstrated by generation of PR worth an
equivalent advertising value of £1.2 million since April 2013
Expertise & Knowledge
Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland is a not–for–profit organisation whose role is to
develop, manage and promote outdoor recreation across Northern Ireland therefore those
councils supporting the consortium benefit from its significant expertise and knowledge.
• Product knowledge gained from:
o proactive campaigning for 10+ years for the development of mountain biking
in Northern Ireland
o driving the development of Rostrevor, Castlewellan, Blessingbourne, Castle
Ward and Barnett Demesne Mountain Bike Trails
•
Mountain bike market knowledge gained from proactive:
o benchmarking from competitor destinations
o engagement with UK and ROI wide industry experts
o staff training investment including learning journeys and industry conferences
•
Marketing expertise gained from:
o 8+ years of proactively promoting outdoor recreation / activity tourism in
Northern Ireland via Outdoor Recreation NI platforms such as
OutdoorNI.com. WalkNI.com
Appendix 2
o 8+ years delivering activity tourism marketing outputs for Tourism Northern
Ireland
Delivery Costs for the MountainBikeNI Consortium 2016 / 2017
Expenditure
2016-2017 / £
Mountain Bike Marketing Officer NJC
37,935
Staff Officer Grade
(of which 26,804 is salary)
Salary / National Insurance / Employers
Pension Contributions
Operating Costs
8,600
Management / Finance Overheads
TOTAL
13,465
60,000
Contribution breakdown per trail managing council and sponsors
Source
Amount / £
Sponsorship
15,000
11,666
• Rostrevor
11,666
• Castlewellan
11,666
• Davagh
• Blessingbourne
• Barnett Demesne (Belfast)
5,000
5,000
TOTAL
60,000
N.B. These contributions are based on full support from each stakeholder. If one or more
stakeholders is removed then support required from other stakeholders may have to adjust
accordingly.
Proposed Campaign Costs 2016 / 2017
It is proposed to deliver 2 multi-channel campaigns in targeted specialist mountain bike on
and off-line media within the financial year. This additional monetary support is not
retained by ORNI rather it is used to deliver agreed outputs. Local authorities can choose to
opt in or out of each campaign on a case by case basis. For example if a local authority
wished to opt out of the summer campaign they would not be involved or promoted via the
tactics within this campaign
Campaign
Autumn (Sept – Nov)
1,500
1,500
Spring (Jan – March) ^
5,000
5,000
TOTAL
6,500
6,500
^ It is anticipated Tourism Ireland will further support this campaign through their CoOperative Marketing Programme.
Appendix 2
Appendix A – MTB Workshops for Local Tourism Providers
It is proposed to deliver one workshop for local tourism providers per National Trail Centre
with the following agenda. The example below relates to Rostrevor, however the each
workshop will be bespoke to each trail centre. The workshops will be delivered by Outdoor
Recreation NI with room hire and refreshments provided by each council.
Achieving Rostrevor’s Mountain Bike Potential
MountainBikeNI in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council invite local
tourism providers to the Mountain Bike Workshop – Achieving Rostrevor’s Mountain Bike
Potential.
The aim of this interactive workshop is to:
o Provide an overview of Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails’ performance
o Discover how your business can:
 Become mountain bike friendly
 Engage in MountainBikeNI marketing campaigns
o Identify potential clustering opportunities to meet the needs of mountain
bikers
Appendix 3
Sponsorship Proposal
January 2016
This open call for sponsorship is being made by Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland in
partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and Mid Ulster District Council.
Appendix 3
1. Background
“ALIGN YOUR BRAND WITH ONE OF
EUROPE’S FASTEST GROWING MOUNTAIN
BIKE DESTINATIONS”
Outdoor Recreation NI in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council
and Mid Ulster District Council is seeking a sponsor for Northern Ireland’s iconic
National Mountain Bike Trail Centres in Rostrevor, Castlewellan and Davagh Forest.
In 2013, £2.3 Million was invested in the generation of over 100km of purpose-built
mountain bike trails across Northern Ireland. The MountainBikeNI.com Consortium was
established to promote these National Trail Centres and work with the private sector to
transform Northern Ireland into the ‘must visit’ mountain bike destination in the UK and
Ireland.
Three years on, Northern Ireland’s mountain bike trails continue to receive critical acclaim
from the world’s leading mountain bike media and visitor numbers at each National Trail
Centre continue to vastly exceed all initial forecasts (over 180,000 cumulative visits from
June 2013 – Sept 2015).
Outdoor Recreation NI is currently delivering a 10 year strategy for mountain biking in
Northern Ireland and there is now an opportunity for a sponsor to gain targeted brand
recognition through aligning with one of Europe’s fastest growing mountain bike destinations
from Apr 2016 – Mar 2019.
Key outputs of this sponsorship will include:
•
Brand Association
Sponsor’s brand will be synonymous with the MountainBikeNI.com brand as well as
each of Northern Ireland’s National Mountain Bike Trail Centres
•
Naming Rights
Sponsor will have the opportunity to name two predetermined trail sections from each
National Trail Centre including Northern Ireland’s only official downhill trails in
Rostrevor
•
On-Site Branding
Sponsor’s branding will be incorporated into trailhead information and throughout
each of Northern Ireland’s National Trail Centres
•
Consumer Marketing
Sponsor will be incorporated within industry leading consumer marketing activity
including integrated offline/online campaigns with specialist media
This document outlines this unique sponsorship opportunity in more detail including an
overview of each of Northern Ireland’s National Trail Centres, current MountainBikeNI.com
marketing activity, benefits of sponsorship activation and process which applicants should
follow.
Appendix 3
2. Three World Class Mountain Bike Trail Centres
2.1 Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails
On the shores of Carlingford Lough, the Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails boast over 45km of
exhilarating cross-country trails as well as Northern Ireland’s only purpose-built downhill
trails.
Listed as ‘Editor’s Choice’ in MBUK’s Top 50 Trail Centres in UK (2015), the Rostrevor
Mountain Bike Trails have been ridden over 50,000 times (June 2013 - Sept 2015) and have
hosted a number of major events including the World Police & Fire Games, Red Bull
Foxhunt, Irish National Marathon Championships, Irish National Cross-Country
Championships and Irish National Downhill Championships.
What specialist media say…
• “Rostrevor is a landmark moment for mountain biking in Ireland” MBUK
• “Although this is a trail centre it feels like more of a proper big day out in the
mountains, with a committing feel from the start” Singletrack
• “Unlike much else in the UK” mbr
• “This (Kodak Corner) has to be one of the best mountain biking views in Ireland”
Outsider
What pro mountain bikers say…
• “The trails are fast and rough, I love this place” Gee Atherton (Former DH World
Champion)
• “Rostrevor has to be one of the best Trail Parks I've ridden” Blake Samson
(Slopestyle Rider)
Appendix 3
2.2 Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails
Northern Ireland’s most popular trail centre, the Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails have
been ridden over 80,000 times (June 2013 – Sept 2015) and with a range of trails to suit all
ages and abilities, not to mention stunning ‘mountainscape’ views of the Mourne Mountains,
it’s easy to see why this place has been such a success story.
Located just minutes from Castlewellan village, this National Trail Centre is an ideal
mountain bike event venue and has already successfully hosted the Single Speed European
Championships, Ulster Cross-Country Championships and First Tracks Enduro Cup.
What the media say…
• “Fast, flowing manmade trails set against a stunning backdrop” MBUK Magazine
• “A rollercoaster ride of twisty, technical trails that just feel like they are happy to have
you there. It’s totally inviting from the first pedal stroke” Singletrack
• “Tight, rock lined and demanding …A banging trail that never let up” mbr
• “Nicely designed with some great rock gardens, berms and switchbacks …but its is
the scenery that is the real winner, forcing you to stop to simply take it all in on more
than one occasion” Outsider
What the Pro Riders say…
• “Backdrop is nothing short of what you’d expect in the Alps” Glyn O’Brien (Former
Irish DH Champion)
• “Fun, singletracky and tight” Blake Samson (Pro Slopestyle Rider)
2.3 Davagh Forest Trails
Situated in the Sperrin Mountains, previously little known Davagh Forest, has been
transformed into one of Northern Ireland’s most exciting mountain bike venues with an
unrivalled reputation for fast flowing trails and iconic rock features.
Selected as the cover feature for MBUK’s Top 50 Trail Centres in the UK (2015), the
Davagh Forest Trails are now recognised as amongst best in the UK and Ireland and this
popularity is reflected through Davagh Forest’s visitor numbers; over 48,000 visits between
June 2013 and Sept 2015. The Davagh Forest Trails have also successfully hosted a number
of entry level Enduro events.
What the media say…
• “This is possibly the best bit of purpose-built trail we’ve ridden. Anywhere. It is rare
that I am lost for words to describe a trail, but Wolf’s Hill is pure perfection”
Singletrack
• “Davagh offers incredible trails” MBUK
• “There are fast, tacky berms and well-placed kickers, as well as technical sections
with intimidating stone slabs” mbr
• “The joy of this trail is that it is simply fast flowing singletrack through stunning
wilderness” Outsider
What the Pro Riders say…
• “Beautiful part of the world and great times to be had” Blake Samson (Pro Slopestyle
Rider)
Appendix 3
3. MountainBikeNI.com Consortium
The MountainBikeNI.com Consortium (established in April 2012) is led by Outdoor
Recreation Northern Ireland and includes trail managing representatives from each of
Northern Ireland’s National and Regional Trail Centres.
Consortium Representatives
• Newry, Mourne and Down District Council - Rostrevor & Castlewellan Mountain
Bike Trails
• Mid Ulster District Council – Davagh Forest Trails & Blessingbourne Trails
• Belfast City Council – Barnett Demesne Trails
• National Trust – Castle Ward Trails
This consortium aims to increase local participation in mountain biking and drive activity
tourism by showcasing Northern Ireland as a ‘must-visit’ mountain bike destination. Through
the establishment of a strong umbrella consumer brand, MountainBikeNI.com, the
consortium provides an excellent opportunity for nationwide sponsorship rather than being
restricted to individual trail centres.
3.1 Industry Leading Marketing Activity
Below are some highlights of work delivered by the MountainBikeNI.com Consortium’s
dedicated Marketing Officer.
Annual Social Media Reach of 1.4 Million
The MountainBikeNI.com Consortium has established targeted social media platforms
including an engaging Facebook Page boasting over 15,500 likes and 1,600 followers
on Twitter.
Official Trail Centre Videos Watched over 250,000 Times
The MountainBikeNI.com Consortium has delivered six official trail centre videos which
have been hosted on MountainBikeNI.com’s Official YouTube Channel and shared via
specialist media outlets.
Over 10,000 E-Newsletter Subscribers
The MountainBikeNI.com Consortium has cultivated a significant segmented E-Marketing
database of over 10,000 mountain bikers of which 55% currently reside within Northern
Ireland.
Over £1 Million EAV Generated from Direct PR
The MountainBikeNI.com Consortium has hosted FAM Trips and secured editorial with
leading specialist magazines in the UK and Ireland including MBR, MBUK, Singletrack,
DIRT and Outsider.
Over £50,000 Invested in Marketing Campaigns
The MountainBikeNI.com Consortium has delivered five marketing campaigns in the UK
and Ireland. Key outputs have included over 20 ads in specialist media, 28 000 inserts,
offline/online advertorials, targeted social media advertising and exhibiting at consumer
shows e.g. London Bike Show.
Appendix 3
Nationwide Mountain Bike Volunteer Scheme
The MountainBikeNI.com Trails Team (Volunteer Ranger Scheme) has over 80 registered
volunteers and has delivered over 700 man hours of trail maintenance across Northern
Ireland’s trail centres.
4. MountainBikeNI.com Sponsorship Opportunity
Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District
Council and Mid Ulster District Council is seeking one sponsor to become associated with
the MountainBikeNI.com Consortium Brand and each of Northern Ireland’s three National
Trail Centres.
This sponsorship will run from April 2016 until March 2019 i.e. 3 years. After which, subject
to contractual agreements being met, this sponsor will be offered the first opportunity to
negotiate for a further 3 year deal i.e. April 2019 to March 2021.
During this period additional trail centres may be developed and added to the
MountainBikeNI.com Consortium however it will remain the decision of the trail manager as
to whether they become a partner in the sponsorship agreement.
Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland will act as the key liaison between the
MountainBikeNI.com Consortium and the sponsor.
4.1 Sponsorship Revenue
Revenue from the agreed sponsorship will be used by Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland to
invest in a dedicated Mountain Biking Marketing Officer to continue the marketing activity
outlined above.
All members of the MountainBikeNI.com Consortium will also be contributing towards this
marketing role to promote Northern Ireland’s mountain bike trail centres and in turn the
brand of the future sponsor.
Appendix 3
4.2 Benefits to Sponsor
Brand Association
• The sponsor’s brand will be synonymous with the MountainBikeNI.com brand e.g.
MountainBikeNI.com in association with ‘Sponsor’
Naming Rights
• Northern Ireland’s three National Trail Centres will be named and officially referred to
across all marketing communications as ‘in association with’ the successful sponsor
•
The successful sponsor will have the opportunity to name two predetermined trail
sections from each of Northern Ireland’s National Trail Centres including both downhill
trails in Rostrevor
On Site
• Sponsor’s brand will be incorporated within trailhead information and throughout each of
Northern Ireland’s National Trail Centres
•
Sponsor’s brand will be incorporated into future re-prints of MountainBikeNI.com trail
cards
•
Sponsor will have the opportunity to propose a ‘trailhead gateway’ to be erected at each
National Trail Centre. This would be procured, designed and installed by sponsor
•
Sponsor will have opportunities to carry out promotional activity e.g. photo shoots at each
of Northern Ireland’s National Trail Centres on pre-arranged dates
Marketing Collateral
•
Sponsor’s logo will be incorporated within offline/online MountainBikeNI.com
marketing collateral including;
o Specialist Media Advertising / Magazine Inserts
Over 20 ads placed in specialist media to date / 28,000 inserts in specialist
magazines
o MountainBikeNI.com
Visible on every page including homepage, 1.2 Million Page Views (Apr 13 – Oct
15)
o E-zines & Social Media
Visible in bespoke E-Newsletters sent out to at least 10,000 subscribers every
month
o Promotional Flyers
Inclusion within in-store competition cards and promotion at consumer trade
shows
Appendix 3
5. Sponsorship Proposal Submissions
All sponsorship proposals must be completed on the supplied application form and be
submitted before Friday 29th January 2016 to:
The Office Manager
Outdoor Recreation NI
The Stableyard
Barnett’s Demesne
BELFAST, BT9 5PB
Sealed tenders should have ‘MountainBikeNI.com Sponsorship Proposal’ clearly written on
the top left corner and should not bear any name or other distinguishing matter or mark
revealing the identity of the sender.
Please note:
1. Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland does not accept submissions by either e-mail or fax
2. Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland will not accept any submission that comes in after
the submission time and date.
3. Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland will not be responsible for any costs and expenses
incurred in preparing the submission.
4. Failure to submit any of the required information as detailed in this document will
automatically result in the submission being rejected.
5.1 Sponsorship Proposal Queries
All queries regarding the sponsorship recruitment process should be made via email
to info@mountainbikeni.com. Any points that require clarification must be received a
minimum of three working days before the submission deadline date.
5.2 Sponsorship Proposal Evaluation
The applications will be assessed on the following criteria:
Revenue – 70%
This is the amount of money the sponsor is willing to pay to become associated with the
MountainBikeNI.com brand. This revenue will cover the period from April 2016 until March
2019. Payment will be made in advance in three pro rata instalments i.e. one third paid each
April.
Added Value and Marketing Support Required – 30%
Whilst revenue is of key importance to allow Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland carry out
marketing activity for the MountainBikeNI.com consortium it is also anticipated the sponsor
will be able to add significant value to the brand and lend marketing support through their
already established channels.
This section will be assessed under three key headings:
Onsite Branding: 10%
• Support that can be provided to employed Trail Rangers e.g. supply of clothing,
equipment etc.
•
Proposals for ‘Trail Gateway’ Signs
Appendix 3
Volunteer Ranger Scheme: 10%
• Indicate how your sponsorship will support the Volunteer Ranger Scheme e.g. supply of
clothing, reward scheme etc.
Marketing Support: 10%
• Indicate the marketing support that can be provided e.g. website, e-marketing, social
media, PR, cooperative campaigns, photoshoots, in-store presence etc.
•
Outdoor Recreation NI has the right to refuse applications from those organisations which
are in conflict to their ethos
Once the sponsor is appointed both the revenue and added value proposals will be drawn into
a contract outlining Outdoor Recreation NI’s responsibilities to the sponsor and the sponsor's
responsibilities to Outdoor Recreation NI and the MountainBikeNI.com brand.
Appendix 3
6. Submission
Submissions must be typed or word processed in black ink within tables provided
Contact Details
Organisation Name
Organisation Address
Telephone Number
Mobile Number
Email
Name of main contact
Role in Organisation
Company Overview
In no more than 200
words please provide an
overview of your
company
Revenue Submission – 70%
Amount of sponsorship revenue proposed for period from April 2016 until March 2019
in pounds sterling:
Appendix 3
Added Value – 30%
Please clearly detail below the added value and marketing support that your organisation will
bring to the MountainBikeNI.com consortium:
Onsite Branding: 10%
• Support that can be
provided to employed
Trail Rangers e.g.
supply of clothing,
i
t t
Volunteer Ranger
Scheme: 10%
• Indicate how your
sponsorship will
support the Volunteer
Ranger Scheme e.g.
Please continue on additional sheets if necessary
Marketing Support: 10%
• Indicate the marketing
support that can be
provided e.g. website,
e-marketing, social
media, PR, cooperative
campaigns,
photoshoots, in-store
presence etc.
_____________________
_____________________
Please continue on additional sheets if necessary
Please sign below to confirm the details submitted within this document are accurate.
Signature ____________________________
Date
_________________________
Name of Signatory (BLOCK CAPITALS) ________________________________________
Subject
Forest Recreation Audit
Reporting Officer
Nigel Hill
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
Formal adoption of the Forest Recreation Audit Report 2015.
2
Background
2.1
In June 2013, Outdoor Recreation NI was commissioned by Dungannon and
South Tyrone Borough Council to complete a Forest Recreation Audit for
nine forests within the Council area namely; Altmore, Caledon/ Brantry,
Crocknagrally, Dunmoyle, Fardross, Favour Royal, Knockmany, Mullaghfad
and Parkanaur.
With the merging of Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council,
Cookstown District Council and Magherafelt District Council to become Mid
Ulster Council in April 2015, the Council considered it an opportune time to
complete a similar audit of those forests in the former Cookstown and
Magherafelt District Council areas namely; Bann Woods South, Cookstown
Forest, Creggan Forest, Davagh Forest, Derrynoyd Forest, Drum Manor
Forest Park, Iniscarn Forest, Moydamlaght Forest, Moyola Forest,
Portglenone Forest and Pomeroy Forest. This approach was approved by
Mid Ulster District Council in April/May 2015 and the draft presented to
Development Committee for consideration/comments in October 2015.
3
Key Issues
3.1
Council agreement on the proposals and the phased prioritising of the
Forest Recreation audit key actions.
3.2
In order to take the audit’s recommendations forward, consideration needs
to be given to potential funding sources. This will include the identification
of strategic funding partners’ and match funding from capital budget
allocations agreed by MUDC for 2016-19.
3.3
The procurement of specialist services to assist with the development of
forest recreation applications to potential funding partners.
3.4
The delivery timeframe and any conditions set out in any Memorandum of
Understanding between Mid Ulster District Council and Forest Service NI
(FSNI).
4
Resources
4.1
Financial
Capital development budget allocations will be required to action identified
projects. Capital expenditure projects will be subject to available core
funding allocations.
4.2
Human
Existing resources adequate.
4.3
Procurement of professional services for the development of robust projects
capable of attracting resources from potential funding partners.
4.4
Other
N/A
5
5.1 Forest Recreation development will engage extensively with local community
and users groups in the delivery of the agreed projects, which is vital in order
to achieve increased access, usage and sustainability of forest facilities in
Mid Ulster District Council area.
6
Recommendations
6.1
Adoption of the Forest Recreation Audit Report as a template of potential
development for the Mid Ulster Council area.
7
7.1 Appendix 1: Forest Recreation Audit Executive Summary Parts A and B
Appendix 1
Forest Recreation Audit
Executive Summary - Parts A and B
Prepared by Outdoor Recreation NI on behalf of
Mid Ulster District Council
August 2015
Appendix 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In June 2013, Outdoor Recreation NI was commissioned by Dungannon and South Tyrone
Borough Council to complete a Forest Recreation Audit for nine forests within the Council
area namely; Altmore, Caledon/ Brantry, Crocknagrally, Dunmoyle, Fardross, Favour Royal,
Knockmany, Mullaghfad and Parkanaur (Part A).
With the merging of Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council, Cookstown District
Council and Magherafelt District Council to become Mid Ulster Council in April 2015, the
Council considered it an opportune time to complete a similar audit of those forests in the
former Cookstown and Magherafelt District Council areas namely; Bann Woods South,
Cookstown Forest, Creggan Forest, Davagh Forest, Derrynoyd Forest, Drum Manor Forest
Park, Iniscarn Forest, Moydamlaght Forest, Moyola Forest, Portglenone Forest and Pomeroy
Forest (Part B).
With the completion of this second audit, a complete overview of the current recreation
facilities and future potential for twenty forests within the new Mid Ulster council area has
been determined.
For each forest, the current provision of and opportunities for future outdoor recreation
development were considered, within the context of what is happening at a regional and
national level.
The study employed both primary and secondary research methods including desk top
research of existing reports and strategies, individual site assessments, consultation with a
wide range of local and national organisations, user groups and the private sector and an
analysis of best practice taking place at a national scale and from Great Britain.
It is recognised that whilst some of the forests in the Mid Ulster District currently provide a
range of outdoor recreation and activity tourism opportunities, the potential of the forests have
not yet been realised.
They are currently a relatively untapped resource in terms of outdoor recreation and activity
tourism opportunities but with considered investment and management have the potential
to become key sites for both the local community and visitors.
Through the study three forests were identified as having the potential to attract day visitors
in their own right to the area if developed appropriately and sensitively namely, Parkanaur,
Drum Manor and Davagh.
In addition, several forests although recognised as providing primarily for the local
community, were identified as having the potential to add to the wider visitor offering of the
area namely, Pomeroy, Knockmany, Drumcairne Portglenone and Lough Fea.
All forests in the Council area were found to be deficient in basic infrastructure and
consequently customer-focus. A significant change is therefore required to ensure that the
forests become more ‘visitor inspired’ moving forward.
In addition all forests considered in the study, with the exception of Davagh, were found to
require significant improvements to the visitor welcome, interpretation and waymarking in
order to inspire user confidence. It is recommended that developing an overall ‘brand’ for
the Mid Ulster forests, would help provide a cohesive experience for users, as well as instilling
a sense of place.
It was identified that creating new or enhancing existing outdoor recreation facilities, such as
adventure play, multi-use trails, mountain biking trails, walking trails, angling facilities would
Appendix 1
also benefit many of the forests in the area as would co-ordinating a series of planned events
throughout the year and improved promotion of the forest resource.
The importance of the forests in providing doorstep opportunities for the local community
and consequently the direct benefits that this brings in terms of improvements in health and
well-being, social capital and protection of the resource cannot be underestimated. It is
essential that moving forward local communities are ‘bought in’ to the future development
of the forests in their area.
The key actions proposed for each forest is summarised below. These should be read in
association with the full report.
In order to take the audit’s recommendations forward, consideration needs to be given to
potential funding sources, the delivery timeframe and any conditions set out in any
Memorandum of Understanding between Mid Ulster District Council and Forest Service NI
(FSNI).
Priority Level 1 Forests:
Forest
Priority
level
All Forests
1
Davagh
1
Parkanaur
1
Drum Manor
1
Knockmany and
Lumfords Glen
1
Key Actions
Appropriate Visitor Welcome and signage (see individual
forests)
Stakeholder meetings
User counters where appropriate (see individual forests)
Develop a visitor centre
Develop as a Dark Sky Discovery Site
Extend and upgrade the green blue and red trails
Develop an orienteering trail
Develop a themed nature play trail
Install glamping pods
Enhance existing and develop new walking trails/multiuse trails
Provide visitor facilities – toilets etc
Enhance orienteering product available
Provide appropriate adventure play facility
Upgrade car park Upgrade caravan park facilities
Picnic, barbecue and seating facilities
Install payment barrier
Upgrade caravan park facilities
Develop a themed adventure play trail
Renovate the toilet block and upgrade picnic area
Provide catering in the forest at peak times
Deliver a programme of events throughout the year
Provide appropriate adventure play facility
Install picnic, barbecue and seating facilities
Provide appropriate car parking
Provide visitor facilities – toilets etc
Appendix 1
Forest
Priority
level
Cookstown
(Drumcairne)
2
Pomeroy
2
Portglenone
2
Altmore
2
Caledon/
Brantry
2
Crocknagrally
2
Fardross
2
Favour Royal
2
Key Actions
Develop a sustainable, looped mountain bike trail
Develop a looped walking and family cycling trail
Develop a pump track
Reopen the existing car park
Landscape the terraced gardens and ponds to provide a
valuable open space and public resource for the local
community
Develop an innovative adventure play facility
Install picnic, BBQ benches and seating
Facilitate community group to become custodians of the
Forestry School and use as a community resource
Undertake a detailed feasibility study and economic
appraisal to ascertain the potential of the former Forestry
School building becoming a community resource
Investigate the potential for a caravan and camp site within
the forest
Install an adventure trail along existing forest trails
Provide toilet facilities
Provide additional car parking
Assess existing seating on-site and upgrade where
necessary Add additional seating and picnic/ BBQ
facilities adjacent to the play park
Develop a looped multi-use trail within Glenone Wood
Upgrade and increase the number of fishing stands within
Glenone Forest and at the adjacent angling facility
Upgrade the facilities at the coarse angling facility
Develop a community path to link Glenone Forest to Bann
Bridge and the town of Portglenone
Install seating at appropriate locations along the walking
trail
Develop a ‘Blueway’ along the River Bann
Trail development on existing forest roads
Develop a community path to the reservoir
Upgrade the Hunting Lodge to appropriate visitor facility
Install picnic and seating facilities
Develop a long-distance mountain bike ride
Develop a long-distance mountain bike ride development
Appendix 1
Bann Woods
South
2
Cookstown
(Springhill
Wood)
2
Cookstown
(Lissan Forest)
2
Davagh
(Lough Fea
Wood)
2
Derrynoyd
2
Iniscarn
2
Moyola
2
Develop a linear multi use trail
Develop a community path to link the village of Kilrea to
Moneygran Wood via Portna and Hutchinson’s Quay.
Install a viewpoint in Moneygran Wood
Develop a ‘Blueway’ along the River Bann
Develop a sustainable, looped walking trail
Create a community path from Moneymore to Springhill
Wood
Enlarge the existing layby to facilitate car parking
trail
Develop a sustainable horse trail plus additional facilities as
required
Investigate extending existing waymarked walking trails to
incorporate Lissan Forest
trail
Complete a signage audit and streamline existing signage
Develop a looped walking trail within Lough Fea Wood
Assess the feasibility of linking Lough Fea Wood to
Davagh Forest
trail
Investigate the creation of a community path to link the
villages of Moneyneany via the Douglas River bank to
Tobermore via the Moyola River bank
trail
trail
Develop a looped walk within Moyola Forest
Create additional parking by moving the FSNI access gate
back at Moyola Forest
trail
Forest
Mullaghfad
Dunmoyle
Cookstown
(Birchwood)
Cookstown
(Drumconvis)
Davagh
(Broughderg)
Priority
level
3
3
3
3
3
Key Actions
Stakeholder meetings
Develop fishing stands to address the informal access to
the Ballinderry River
Welcome signage only
Assess the feasibility and need to develop Broughderg
Forest, given the level of development proposed for
Davagh Forest
Appendix 1
Iniscarn
(Carndaisy)
3
Moydamlaght
3
Welcome signage only
Work with Moneyneany Community Association to take
forward their plans for development, adjacent to and
linking to the forest
Appendix 1
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Events
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Payment barrier
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
Visitor Counter
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Accomodation
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Catering
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
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Picnic/ BBQ
Seating


Other
Toilets
Visitor centre
Car park
Activity tourism
Orienteering

Angling
Pump track
High/low ropes
Nature play
Blueway
Community path
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Events
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
Payment barrier

Visitor Counter
Activity tourism
Angling
Orienteering
Pump track
High/low ropes
Nature play
Blueway
Community path
Horse riding

Accomodation

Other
Catering

Visitor Facilities
Picnic/ BBQ

Activities
Seating
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Trails
Toilets
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Visitor centre
Forest
Priority
Davagh
1
Drum Manor
1
Bann Woods South
2
Cookstown (Drumcairne)
2
Cookstown (Springhill Wood)
2
Cookstown (Lissan Forest)
2
Davagh (Lough Fea Wood)
2
Derrynoyd
2
Iniscarn
2
Moyola
2
Pomeroy
2
Portglenone
2
Cookstown (Birchwood)
3
Cookstown (Drumconvis)
3
Davagh (Broughderg)
3
Iniscarn (Carndaisy)
3
Moydamlaght
3

Car park

MTB trail

Walk trail

Multi use trail

Signage
Welcome Signage
 


Visitor Facilities

Part B
 new
 upgrade
 work in progress
 complete
Horse riding
MTB trail
Walk trail
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Multi use trail
Waymarking
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Waymarking
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Interpretation
Priority
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
3
3
Activities
Interpretation
Forest
Parkanaur
Knockmany/ Lumfords Glen
Altmore
Caledon/ Brantry
Crocknagrally
Fardross
Favour Royal
Dunmoyle
Mullaghfad
Trails
Signage
Welcome Signage
Part A
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Subject
Holiday World Shows, Belfast & Dublin
Reporting Officer
Michael Browne
Contact Officer
Mary McGee
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
To report and inform Council of Mid Ulster Council Tourism Staff promotion
at Holiday World, Belfast (15-17 January) & Dublin (22-24 January)
2
Background
2.1
Tourism staff participated with local tourism trade in promoting the Mid
Ulster Council region at the Holiday World Shows in Belfast (15-17 Jan) &
Dublin (22-24 Jan).
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
The shows were very busy over both weekends with local and other
promotional material being distributed, including information on the
Seamus Heaney Centre distributed at both.
To mark NI Year of Food, Norah Brown MBE from Grange Lodge Cookery
School cooked great breakfasts on the stand on Friday in both Belfast &
Dublin, as part of January being designated breakfast month. She cooked
traditional breakfast dishes including Soda Farls with Fivemiletown
Cheese, Pancakes served with Dromona Butter and Porridge with local
cream and brown sugar.
This proved very popular on both days and highlighted the great local food
and producers we have in Mid Ulster. Council Chairperson Linda Dillon
also attended the show in Belfast on Friday 15 January and welcomed
show organiser – Maureen Ledwith and TV celebrity Fearne McCann to
the Mid Ulster Council stand. Ms McCann received a quick lesson in
making great Soda Farls and took the associated recipes from Norah to try
them out at home!
Trade attended both shows over the two weekends and ran a series of
promotions including competitions on the stand. Businesses who attended
included:
Corick House Hotel, Clogher; Ashbrook House B&B, Carnteel,
Aughnacloy; Todds Leap, Ballygawley; Spice Cottages, Moy; Mid Ulster
National Trust properties, Springhill & Wellbrook Beetling Mill.
2.7
2.8
2.9
Feedback has been very positive with trade reporting receiving bookings
from the show including reservations for accommodation overnight stays,
activity packages sold by Todd’s Leap and bookings already coming in for
the Snowdrop Walks at National Trust properties in Mid Ulster.
Staff also took the opportunity to promote the date for opening of the
Seamus Heaney Centre, Bellaghy. There was a very positive uptake from
the public on literature provided on the stand.
In Dublin on Friday morning – trade morning, staff promoted the centre to
key trade attending. These included Tourism NI (ROI office), Incoming
and Domestic Tour Operators and Media. Staff have compiled a list of
those interested in the centre and the launch. These include: Platinum
Travel, Celtic Culture Travel, Budget School & Group Tours, Active
Retirement Clubs, Senior Times, Daily Mail, Mara Media and many others.
Minister for Tourism & Sport, Michael Ring TD visited the show in Dublin
on Saturday 23rd January and was welcomed by staff onto the Mid Ulster
Stand. The Minister expressed a keen interest in visiting the Seamus
Heaney Centre and is keen to attend its launch when the time comes.
3
Key Issues
3.1
Promote Mid Ulster tourism product at Holiday World Shows across
Ireland.
3.2
Facilitate Mid Ulster tourism trade to promote and sell at both shows.
3.3
Highlight the Seamus Heaney proposition to Travel Media, Trade and
Consumers.
3.4
To receive customer feedback regarding the Mid Ulster Council tourism
offering.
4
Resources NA
4.1
Financial
NA
4.2
Human
4.3
4.4
NA
Other
NA
5
5.1
N/A
6
Recommendations
6.1
Review the value of the Holiday World shows and consider next year.
7
7.1
N/A
Subject:
Leisure Services Progress Report
Reporting Officer:
Liam Glavin, Head of Leisure
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
To update Members of the progress being made regarding activities in
Leisure Services and highlight events that will be occurring in the future.
2
Background
2.1
Mid Ulster District Council recognises the important role that leisure plays
in today's society and that the equitable availability of accessible, high
quality sport and leisure provision can enhance the quality of life, health
and wellbeing of the local community. The facilities and programmes
provided in Mid Ulster are designed to maximise participation in sport and
leisure activities from all sections of the community and provide pathways
that enable every resident within the Mid Ulster area to maximise their
health, sporting abilities, aspirations and potential.
3
Key Issues
3.1
Full details of key elements of Leisure Service provision in the last month
is included in Appendix 1. A summary of key highlights is provided below:
• DanderBall
• Couch to 3k
A range of events and activities was provided in Leisure Services across
Mid Ulster. A summary is included in Appendix 2.
4
Resources
4.1
Financial
4.2
N/A
Human
N/A
4.3
N/A
4.4
Other
N/A
5
5.1 N/A
6
Recommendations
6.1
Members are asked to note activities being undertaken in Leisure Services
and the events that will be occurring in the future.
7
7.1 Appendix 1 - Key elements of Leisure Service provision in the last month.
7.2 Appendix 2 - Key Events
2
Appendix 1 – Key Elements of Leisure Service Provision in the last month
Sports Development
Mid Ulster Sports Arena (MUSA)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
IFA Excellence Bookings four times per week continues on the 3G and grass
pitches at the Mid Ulster Sports Arena Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
evenings and also on Sundays until the end of November and will
recommence in February
Parkrun continues every Saturday morning at 9.30am 60 participants weekly
Acorn Athletics Couch to 5K Programme on Tuesday and Thursday evenings
100 participants each night
Usage of the Trim Trail by walkers and runners remains steady especially
during the day. Estimated numbers using this facility in the region of 300 per
day
New Block Booking commenced on 4 January and will run until 18 March
2016
Twilight Soccer resumed on Friday 15 January 2016 with eight teams taking
park
Cookstown Youth Development Centre recommenced on Friday 22 January
2016 with over 100 children taking part on a weekly basis
Cookstown Rugby Club Training and Matches
Active Communities and Games Promotion Officer Christmas GAA Camp
attended by 50 children per day over two days
A number of Birthday Parties have taken place in the indoor hall with people
from Coalisland, Dungannon and Omagh areas all availing of the facilities
IRFU Ulster Branch Ladies Coaching
IFA Excellence Futsal Training Sessions
Dungannon Leisure Centre Sports Development
•
•
•
•
•
School Of Aquatics Winter programme is in full swing throughout January
and continues to be as popular as ever
The Swimming Squad Training classes cater for 120 children every Tuesday
Due to demand Saturday afternoon Squad Training has been introduced and
they have proved very popular
There is a comprehensive one to one swimming lesson programme running
and once again almost all available slots have been booked
Adult classes on Tuesday and Thursday nights are booked out once again
3
Leisure Facility Based Activities
Cookstown Leisure Centre
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The centre released its Winter 2016 Programme to the public on the 14th
December
The Aquatic Programme was released on the 2nd January; with the winter
swim enrolment took place. The majority of lessons were filled with 640
places out of a possible 700 taken
The Dryside programme saw 19 courses on offer to the public, ranging
from spinning selection, yoga, boot camp, circuits, kettlebell, boxercise to
Zumba. However, class number are performing well with class numbers
ranging from 15 to 30, which indicates members are starting to utilise their
complimentary use under “Total Evolve”.
Cookstown Leisure Centre hosted a health initiative with “MUVE” (Mid
Ulster Victims Empowerment) and supported with Council funding via
Community Relations. The group hosted an event on the 28th December
with a range of activities, including arts and crafts, playshak, dance mats,
main hall activities and bowling. The group had 34 children in attendance.
While children participated in the activities above, the parent undertook a
Health Improvement Seminar with John McKillion talking about making
small health and fitness changes to their lifestyles can have major impacts
on their general health.
Evolve Fitness New Year “Make a Change” where clients can avail of 14
months for the price of 12 on annual cash memberships, or one month
free on a 12-month direct debit membership
Evolve Fitness – Stepper Challenge will run the month of January, offering
two levels with a 1km and 2.5km climb. Successful customers will receive
a £15.00 sportswear voucher from the “Intersport Superstore” Cookstown
Over the winter the staff will advertise the following incentives to use the
facility: Valentines Open Door Weekend Special, St. Patrick’s Open Door
Weekend Special, Rowing Challenge in March
During the months of October – December 2015 evolve FITNESS ran a
fitness challenge for its members to complete in the run-up to Christmas. It
was the evolve FITNESS 2015 Ultimate Challenge. Each member who
signed up had to clock 2015 minutes of exercise between 01/10/15 –
31/12/15. To achieve the 2015-minute goal members would have to attend
3 times per week and exercise for approximately 55 minutes. Everyone
who completed the challenge received a £15 sportswear voucher for the
Intersport Super Store Cookstown.
Dungannon Leisure Centre
•
Classes and courses (Dry). The fitness programme continues during
January. Circuit Training continues to be as popular as ever, as does the
½ AND ½ Spin Classes on Mondays and Fridays, along with the Tuesday
Spin Class. Yoga and Step Aerobics classes continue to attract good
numbers.
4
Circuit training class in full swing
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
H.I.I.T class in progress
New Classes (dry) Some exciting new classes have been added to the
programme. Early Burn, H.I.I.T. ,HardCore, S.W.E.A.T. (Strength, Work,
Endurance, Agility Training) Running @ Gortgonis and Pilates
The S.W.E.A.T. class has been very well attended so far, with over 30
customers taking part each week
Early Burn is a class aimed at customers who want to start their day with an
intense work out before they go to work
H.I.I.T. is a lunchtime class and is a high intensity workout for all abilities
Running @ Gortgonis takes place on Saturday mornings at Gortgonis
running track in Coalisland from10-11am.
Due to demand a second Aqua-Fit class is programmed on Tuesdays at 78pm
Classes (Wet) The Masters swimming classes continue on Monday and
Friday 6-7pm and Thursday 7-8am. They regularly draw in over 40
customers, many of who now use the pool frequently outside the class times
Swimmer Development class are on Saturday mornings 6.30-8.30am. This
class is aimed at club swimmers looking to refine their swimming technique
to enable them to improve on their performances.
Rookie Lifeguard Courses continue through this month.
Ladies Night continues on Mondays 8.45-9.45pm in the pool and is as
popular as ever.
Aqua-Fit on Tuesday 7-8pm and Thursday nights 7.30-8.30pm continues to
be very well attended.
National Pool Lifeguard (R.L.S.S.) course over two weekends at the end of
January starting on Friday 22nd January
Outdoor Leisure Facilities
Meadowbank Sports Arena



The Acorns Athletic Club “Couch 2 5K” complete another 9 week
programme with participant graduation on Monday 25th January 2016. The
programme attracts 400/500 runners each evening
Ulster Rugby continue to base one of their Regional Youth Squads at the
Arena and used the facilities on a regular basis with an average of 60/80
participants at each session
Slimming World continues on a Thursday and the regular sessions
average 85/120 participants
5











The Arena continued to be a popular venue for Children’s Birthday Parties
with over 22 parties facilitated
Rainey Mini Hockey recommenced on Friday afternoons with 40/50
children attending each week
Rainey Mini Rugby also commenced at the start of September with 110
registering and between 80 and 110 attending each session
St Colmcilles Girl Guides held their registration for the new term with 30
girls attending on the first night
Mary Hill Ballet School recommenced on Saturday afternoons with 40/50
dancers attending each week
The Meadowbank Fit for Life programme has attracted 9 Primary Schools
from the local area this term
Northern Region Recovery College, Rosemary Hawthorne, monthly class
for various clients, Meeting Room 10am-1pm
Holy Family Primary School are hosting a Gaelic blitz, 9am-3pm on 3 x
maxis, Wednesday 27th January & Thursday 4th February 2016
Mid Ulster Athletics Club host Primary Schools Sports Hall Athletics on
Thursday 28th January, 1 x maxi pitch, 10am-3pm
Charity Football Match, 2 x maxis, 2-4pm. Saturday 30th January 2016
A new season soccer league “Magherafelt Soccer Sixes” is taking place
on our 3G pitches and is attracting a lot of teams from the local area.
Over 100 players attended on the first night
Maghera Leisure Centre
6
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Party Packages - 36 facilitated
Christmas Boot Camp Mon 7th December – Fri 18th Dec: numbers 33 – 43
Slieve Gallion Annual Christmas Party 16th December
Annual Brownies Christmas Party
Profiles Fitness Suite & Cardio Theatre continues to be busy both casual
and Personal Training
Profiles Health & Fitness Suite – 12 Day Christmas Challenge
Commenced 1st December – 12th December. 22 participants, creating
aprox 220 visits to Profiles in the 12 day period. Winning Female Dolores
McGuckin and winning Male was Ivan Gordon
Gymnastic sessions Tues, Wed & Fri completely booked
Leo Maguire Taekwondo Club, Main Hall Thursdays 5pm – 6pm
Karate, Main Hall Fridays 6pm – 7pm
Jujitsu Club Saturdays 10am – 12,30pm & Monday 6.30am – 9pm
Magherafelt Advice Centre operates from centre weekly on a Tuesday
9am – 11am
GP Referral Program ongoing
Senior Citizen Club Wednesday 2pm – 4pm, attendance 15
Morning session classes 10am – 11am. 10 to 20 in attendance
Sunday bootcamps, kettlebells, Circuits Monday & Thursday Circuit
Training, Spinning
Kirsty Kinetic Dance Friday 5.15pm – 7.15pm
Old Mill Youth Academy – Main Hall Wednesdays 7pm – 8pm
Tobermore Utd Mini Soccer, Saturdays Main Hall (astro turf weather
depending) 10am – 11am
Tobermore Golf Centre
•
•
•
•
Chris Selfridge Local Tour Professional and Tony Mulholland resident
PGA professional coach at Tobermore Golf Centre delivered a question
and answering session at the Junior Coaching Saturday 19th December.
1.30pm – 5pm.
Trackman lessons and Standard Studio lessons.
St Pauls, Kilrea 18th November, 4 weeks.
Improvers Course, 6 week course completed Thursday 17th December.
Moneymore Recreation Centre
•
•
•
Mini Gaelic Football Centre. A Mini Gaelic after School club continued into
December 2015. The cost of these sessions is £2 per child and the coach
in charge is Brian Laverty from MUSA. 12 children are attending these
sessions. These sessions finished on Wednesday 9th December 2015
Mini Indoor Hockey. A 6-week indoor Hockey centre continued into
December 2015. Paula Black (MUSA) is the coach in charge of these
sessions. These sessions finished on Thursday 11th December 2015.
School Multi-Skills. Continued into December 2015. Started on Monday
9th November 2015 & Friday 13th November 2015. Churchtown P/S are
attending on Monday s for 4 weeks (9.30am-10.30am) and on Fridays St
Pats Loup P/S (9.30am-10.30am) and St Pats Moneymore P/S (1.30pm2.30pm) are attending for 6 weeks. The coach in charge is Paula Black
7
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
from MUSA and the other schools said the hall was too cold so they would
not be attending.
East Tyrone Cycling. East Tyrone cycling club have continued their circuit
training classes every Wednesday in December. They use the Sports Hall
on Wednesdays 8pm-9pm and there are good numbers attending these
classes
Cedar Foundation. The Cedar Foundation Group from Ballymena has
recently started hiring our Committee Room for meetings. They have
booked the Room in January 2016 also.
Ulster GAA/Moneymore Gaelic. Moneymore Ladies Gaelic has continued
using our Sports Hall throughout December 2015. They use the Hall on
Tuesdays 7pm-8pm for Gaelic Training and this is funded by Ulster GAA.
They finished on Tuesday 8th December 2015 and hope to rebook the
facility in 2016.
Pilates Classes. Monday 6.15pm-7.15pm. These classes are due to finish
on Monday 21st December 2015. They will restart in January 2016.
Steven Kennedy is the instructor.
Tuesday Yoga Classes. 1 Class 6pm-7pm.
Asda Christmas Event. Asda Cookstown held their Christmas Party at
Moneymore Recreation Centre on Saturday 5th December 2015. They
held the event in the Sports Hall and Committee Room 1pm – 4pm.
Approximately 70 people attended this event including children who all
had a great time. They had 3 inflatables, and several characters dressed
up as Olaf from Frozen, Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Father Christmas
even made an appearance handing out gifts to all the kids
Birthday Parties. During December 6 Birthday Parties were held at
Moneymore Recreation Centre
The new Soccer Camp for 7yr old “Boys” and “Girls” will get underway on
the 11TH January
Davagh Mountainbike Trails
8
•
•
•
The recently cancelled Davagh Duathlon has now been rescheduled for
the 5th March 2016 with a publicity to go to the local paper at the end of
February. All entrants registered in the original event will be contacted
about the new date and race info sent out
Another volunteer day has been arranged for 20th February. This is on the
back of a similar and successful event back when 10 locals assisted with
the clear up and made repairs to trails.
The play park at Davagh Forest has now had “safety gates” fitted, by “All
Play”
9
Appendix 2 - Key Events
Mid Ulster Sports Arena
In recent months an exciting new
programme has hit the Mid Ulster Council
area aimed at anyone over 50 years of
age.
Danderball or Walking Football to the
uninitiated commenced a second run of
sessions on 6th January 2016 and is
delivered by the Active Communities
Coach for Older People – Steven
McElhatton. Danderball is Football with a difference. It’s a slow-paced version of
the beautiful game open to anyone over 50.
It is designed to help people maintain an active lifestyle, as well as getting those
back playing football who had to
stop due to injury or aches and
pains.
The game is played to traditional
small-sided football rules but with
one exception, anyone that
sprints, runs or jogs while the ball
is in play is penalised and the
opposition get a free kick.
Active Communities Coach, Steven Mc Elhatton explains “The benefits of this
version of the game are clear to see and if we can help encourage more people
to get back into playing that would be brilliant. It’s extremely inclusive, and offers
something exciting to those who are searching for a slower paced version of the
game, or anyone who has suffered an injury and is looking to still keep active.
The main purpose of the programme is for people to have FUN. The programme
fits with the aims of the Active Communities Programme in helping more people
get out and about; improve fitness, health and promote a sense of wellbeing. “
Up to 20 people take part in the programme each week and it is going from
strength to strength. We are now into our second term of the programme and it is
planned to run up until the end of March 2016.
Meadowbank Sports Arena
COUCH TO 3K. ST PIUS X COLLEGE LAUNCH A NEW HEALTHY RUNNING
INITATIVE IN THE COMMUNITY
On Thursday 10th December on the running track at Meadow bank Sports Arena,
the first ever Junior MLP Schools Couch to 3K students graduated, completing
their final 3K run in probably the worst weather conditions of the year.
10
A total of 95 year 8 students (girls and boys) from the 4 secondary school in
Magherafelt (St Pius X College, St Mary’s Grammar , Sperrin Integrated and
Magherafelt High school ) took part in the nine week programme, hosted by
Meadow bank Sports Arena and coached by Francie Purvis Head coach of
Acorns Running Club.
Despite a mixed bag of weather throughout the 9 week programme, the students
must be congratulated for their efforts and perseverance and it was inspiring to
see all of them complete their final 3K run at their graduation. Pupils not only
received their certificates of achievement and couch to 3k t shirts from Michael
Mc Killop ( World Record Holder and Olympic Gold medallist in the 800m/1500m
at the 2012 para Olympics in London ) he also accompanied them on the track
for their 3K run.
Pupils and parents also had the opportunity to meet with Paula Mc Gurk ( Paed
Dietitian in Mid ) who gave advice on nutrition and ran a quiz highlighting the high
sugar content in a range of popular drinks. Overall the programme was very
successful - allowing pupils to develop their fitness levels, make new friends from
other schools and meet old friends from primary and learn about the value of
proper hydration and nutrition to achieve a healthy weight.
See Pics Below:
READY TO LEAVE FOR OUR FIRST
COUCH TO 3K SESSION
11
12
Subject
Parks Service Progress Report
Reporting Officer
Nigel Hill, Head of Parks
1
Purpose of Report
1.1
To update Members of the progress being made regarding activities
associated to the Parks Services and highlight events or consultations that
will be occurring in the future.
2
Background
2.1
Mid Ulster District Council recognises the important role that Parks,
Countryside recreation and play has in today's society and the ease of
accessible, open space can have on basis quality of life issues and the
health and wellbeing of the local community. The facilities and
programmes provided in Mid Ulster are designed to maximise participation
from all sections of the community and provide opportunities to maximise
quality outdoor experiences for our residents across Mid Ulster District
Council
3
3.1
Mid Ulster Angling Outreach Programme 2016
Mid Ulster District Council and The Department’s Inland Fisheries Group
has agreed to establish an Angling Community Outreach Programme at
three initial locations in the district, Dungannon Park Lake, Bradley lake,
Tobermore and on the Bann River at Glenone. The programme is
designed to encourage greater participation in the sport of angling
especially by minority groups and will run over the summer/autumn
covering both game and coarse angling activities. This will see the Inland
Fisheries Outreach Team work alongside council staff and volunteers from
the Ulster Coarse Fishing Federation and the Northern Ireland Fly Fishing
Association in the promotion and coaching of angling to a wider section of
the community.
The Department will be assisting the events by providing complimentary
angling licences and permits to those participants who have never fished
before; Where possible free fish provision for the event; DCAL branded
freebies; Guided tours of Movanagher Fish Hatchery and Bushmills
Salmon Research Station and coaching staff participation at the event with
DCAL branded promotional material including a mobile fish tank. Final
dates are to be agreed.
3.2
New Year’s Day Singles Competition 2016
The New Year’s ‘Singles’ Angling
Competition is a long established and
much treasured annual event in the
angling calendar at Dungannon Park
Lake with anglers having competed for
the perpetual trophy for over twenty
years. This year’s event took place on
Saturday 02 January running from
9.00am to 3.00pm.
With a first prize of £150.00 up for grabs,
some twenty five anglers braved the dark,
wet conditions to compete from the, bank,
stands and boats but at least the heavy
winds of the previous days stayed away
and despite the conditions the fishing was
good with most of those competiting catching their total of four fish. Over
70 fish were caught totalling a weight of 89lbs.
David Thompson from Newtownabbey was the overall winner with three
fish for 5lbs 15oz. A regular
attendee at the competitions
this was his first winning bag
and his win was well
received by all anglers in
attendance. Alan Brown
and Mervyn McGookin
shared joint second place
each catching four fish for
5lbs 12oz. All in all it was a
great days fishing, with the
anglers in good humour
rearing to go after the
Christmas festivities.
The next planned competition is our Easter Monday Competition on 28
March.
3.3
Pomeroy Forest Car Park Extension
Forest Service NI and Council have agreed development proposals for the
works to establish additional car parking capacity at Pomeroy Forest.
Preliminary consultations with planners and statutory consultee’s has been
completed and formal planning applications initiated. Forest Service have
indicated that they will carry out pre project site clearance and
accommodation works in conjunction with the project proposal.
3.3
Dungannon Park Capital Works
The revised schedule to have the new visitor services pavilion and camp
site completed projects an operational hand over date by end of February.
Plans to formerly launch the new facilities will coincide with the Easter
break with visitor facilities going live in time in advance of St.Patrick’s
weekend.
3.4
Runaway Car Incident at Dungannon Park
Visitors to Dungannon Park on 30th December, returned from their walk to
find that their car had found its way to the lake. The owner realising that
the hand brake had not been fully engaged. The fire brigade assisted by
council staff were able to extract the vehicle from its precarious position
without significant damage to either council property or the vehicle. A
review of current barrier provision has been conducted and plans are being
considered to introduce traffic proof systems to combat similar incidents
occurring in the future.
3.5
Washing Bay Wetlands Park
Staff arriving to work after the festive break found the remains of a burnt
out vehicle at Washingbay wetlands Park. PSNI and council staff made the
necessary arrangements to have the vehicle removed and the surrounding
areas cleansed. No other damage was reported.
4
Resources
4.1
Financial
N/A
Human
4.2
N/A
4.3
N/A
Other
4.4
N/A
5
5.1
N/A
Recommendations
6.1
Members are asked to note for information purposes the activities and
events being delivered or brought to their attention by the Parks Service
7
N/A
Subject
Culture and Arts Progress Report
Reporting Officer
Tony McCance
1
1.1
Purpose of Report
To update Members on the progress being made in Culture and Arts
Services and highlight events that have occurred during the months of
January. Also to identify events and activities within Culture & Arts
Services that will be occurring in the future.
2
2.1
Background
Mid Ulster District Council recognises the important role that Culture and
Arts plays in today’s society and that the availability of accessible, high
quality culture and arts provision can enhance the quality of life and
wellbeing of the local community. The Culture and Arts facilities and
programmes provided in Mid Ulster are designed to maximise participation
from all sections of the community and provide pathways that enable every
resident within the Mid Ulster area to maximise their enjoyment,
aspirations and quality of life.
3
3.1
Key Issues
Full details of key elements Culture and Arts Service provision during end
November/and December is included in Appendix 1.
4
Resources
4.1
Financial
N/A
4.2
Human
None
4.3
Basis for Professional/Consultancy Support
N/A
4.4
Other
None
5
5.1 None
6
6.1
Recommendations
Members are asked to note upcoming activities being undertaken in
Culture and Arts Services.
7
7.1 Appendix 1 – Key elements of Culture and Arts Service provision in the last
month.
Appendix 1
Progress Report
Burnavon Arts & Cultural Centre
Programme
During December and January performance attendance
remained strong. 11 staged performances were held in
December and 9 performances of Wizard of Oz to date in
January. In December 42 other events took place during
December. A mix of workshops, meetings and family
events were organised.
The annual panto performed by Stewartstown Amateur Dramatics Society “Wizard of
Oz” has been a tremendous success this year. A new team involved with the
Dramatics Society have worked extremely hard on improving the quality of the show.
Feedback from patrons has been very positive.
“Dorothy” from the Wizard of Oz performing live on BBC Radio Ulster promoting show in
the Burnavon.
Events
Staff continue to work on upcoming events planned for 2016 including
“The Return of the Clans 2016” which involves supporting the Ancient Clan O’Neill
with the launch “Book of O’Neill” on 30th January in Ranfurly House.
“A Decade of Anniversaries”
Exhibitions, performances and educational workshops will be delivered under Culture
& Arts commencing March 2016.
Support Services (weekly)
The following weekly sessions continue to be delivered as part of the Burnavon
programme and its associated outreach programme.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
South West College – Performing Arts Students
Cookstown Folk Club
Burnavon Writers Group
Superstars Club Musical Theatre Group
Traditional Music in Schools Project (delivered in local schools)
Diploma (delivered in partnership with University of Ulster).
Circus School
Workshops
Winter workshops in Watercolours, Willow Weaving and Floral Art were held during
December.
Outreach
Cookstown Youth Choir performed at The Music Box, Peter Corry’s Christmas
Concert in the Waterfront on Saturday 19th December 2016. This was as a result of
the choir’s work alongside Corry in a concert in the Burnavon in April 2015.
Events Guide January to March 2016
The Burnavon events guide for January to May 2016 was circulated and sales for the
incoming season are good to date.
Ranfurly House Arts & Visitor Centre
Visitors to Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House
Over the period 14th December to 16th January there have been a total of 54 bookings
for room hire in Ranfurly House Arts & Visitor Centre. Of these 37 have been external
and 17 internal bookings.
Guided Tour Requests
In regard to pre booked guided tours this has been an exceptionally quiet period with
only I pre booked tour, however there were 15 walk-in tours requested.
Events Guide January to March 2016
The Ranfurly House events guide for January to March 2016 was circulated by email
and hard copy before the Christmas holiday period.
New Event Space Bookings
Santa’s Grotto on Saturday 12th December, in the new events space on the Hill of The
O’Neill, was very busy despite the heavy snow. There was a steady flow of visitors
throughout the day on Saturday 19th December. Feedback from visitors on both days
was very positive. As well as writing a letter and delivering it personally to Santa Claus
children participated in an arts activity creating their own Christmas tree decorations.
Arts Classes/Workshops commencing January/February
Arts Classes/workshops in Ranfurly House for January/ February include:
Adult Classes:
Guitar commencing 1st February, tutor James Mulligan – 8 weeks
Pottery commencing 8th February, tutor Brenda McGinn – 6 weeks
Beginners Guide to sewing commencing 8th February, tutor Clarice Smith – 6 weeks
Advanced sewing commencing 10th February, tutor Clarice Smith – 6 weeks
Acrylic painting tutor Angela Hackett commencing 9th February – 6 weeks
Floral Art commencing 9th February tutor Sinead Goodwin – 6 weeks
Nail Art commencing 10th February Carol Jordan – 6 weeks
Children’s’ one day workshops:
Batik painting 8 years+ Saturday 30th January delivered by Nicola Birnie
Still life drawing 4years+ Saturday 6th February delivered by Nicola Birnie
Adult one day workshops
An Introduction to Off Camera Flash was held in Ranfurly House on Saturday 9th
January, delivered by Nigel Fleming. There was full attendance at this workshop.
Square Box Events
The evening with Antony Toner and Paul Hughes was cancelled due to the heavy snow
fall on Saturday 12th December. This gig has been rescheduled to take place on Friday
1st April.
The January Square Box events commenced with Gruff children’s’ puppet show
presented by Banyan Theatre on Saturday afternoon 2nd January. There was good
attendance at this show.
The Square Box evening performances commenced with an evening of traditional
music with Donal O’Connor, John Mc Sherry and Sean Og Graham on Saturday 9th
January.
Arts & Disability Stakeholders Arts Programme
Art classes for the Disability Programme will resume in February. Projects include Glass
painting for participants of Fiddles Court, Aughnacloy, 2hrs for 6 weeks. Mosaic Art for
Chest Heart & Stroke. Ballysaggart delivered by Hazel Busby, 2 hrs for 6 weeks Digital
Photography for Dungannon Hospice based at South Tyrone Hospital 2 hrs for 6 weeks
delivered by Gwen Stevenson.
The Visually Impaired Persons group will attend a
glass painting project delivered by Shauna McCann
in Ranfurly House, classes will run for a 6 week
period, 2 hours per week.
Dungannon History Forum
The Dungannon History Forum held their monthly meeting in Ranfurly House on
Tuesday 12th January. History Forum members were given details of activities planned
by MUDC for the Decade of Anniversaries.
The talk planned for Friday 15th January 7.30pm, Robbie Burns and The Ulster Scots
Agency presented by Dr Charles Neville, Ulster Scots Community Network was
cancelled due to the poor weather conditions and the low bookings. This talk will be
rescheduled at a later in the year.
Dungannon Arts Forum
The Dungannon Arts Forum will meet again in February to finalise their plan of activities
for 2016.
Exhibitions in Ranfurly House
The exhibition for the month of January is ‘Border Crossings’ presented by Keith
Crawford. This exhibition is about seeing things from others point of view and
recognising that our identities are forever changing. Culture exchange and adaptation
is the focus of all the artefacts in this exhibition.
Education & Seamus Heaney Education Programme
The pre-opening education programme for the Seamus Heaney Project continues.
Since the beginning of January, Officers have made visits to Spires Integrated Primary
School, Knockloughrim Primary School, New Row Primary School (Castledawson),
Castledawson Primary School and St Mary’s Primary School, Bellaghy, in order to gain
an overview of Key Stage 2 education projects which are taking place. These schools
are taking part in either a Creative Writing programme or in iPad Storytelling.
A meeting was held in MUDC Magherafelt with representatives
of the Primary Science Teachers’ Trust on Friday 15th January. Kathy Schofield, the
College Director of PSTT, and Jim McDaid, a Fellow of PSTT and Vice Principal of
Hazelwood Integrated Primary School, Newtownabbey, have agreed to work with the
Seamus Heaney Project and to attempt to create unique educational resources for the
centre which will link literacy and science.
Creative Writing workshop in St Mary's Primary
School, Bellaghy with Maura Johnston
Update:
• Meeting between MUDC and Verbal Arts on 14.1.16 for update on programme
delivery.
• Strands 2.1 Creative Writing workshops delivery ongoing to end of January.
• Strand 2.2 Workshop with well-known author/illustrator. Chris Riddell booked
for 26.4.16 at Burnavon . Lemn Sissay booked for 13.5.16 at Bridewell.
• Strand 3.1 Storytelling with Imovie commenced in Knockloughrim, Bellaghy
and St John Bosco.
• Strand 3.2 What does Heaney mean to me? 4 participant schools confirmed –
delivery dates confirmed for 2, others to follow
• Strand 5.1 Poet and Poem workshop dates confirmed for 7 of 8 schools.
• Strand 5.2 Music for Special Needs – workshops confirmed for Kilronan
commencing February 2016.
• Strand 6 Reading Rooms Volunteer recruitment nearing completion. Training
dates to be confirmed.
Irish Language Development Mid Ulster
Irish Language Activity Funding
A photocall and press campaign have been arranged profiling one of the 24 groups
benefiting from the Irish Language activity funding scheme. BEAM’s ‘Irish on the
Move’ project will be in focus this month. Other projects will be in focus at regular
intervals between January and March.
Irish Language classes
A 10-week Intermediate Irish class block has commenced in the Burnavon on
19/01/16. Classes in other locations are being rolled out as summarised below:
ACTIVITY
WHEN
WHERE
CONTACT
Dungannon
Irish classes
Tuesdays 7-8.30pm
Beginner,
Intermediate &
Advanced
levels
Coalisland/
Clonoe
Gaelscoil Aodha Rua,
Donaghmore Rd, Dungannon
Phone:
Commencing Tuesday
26 January
Mondays 7.00-9.00pm
Commencing Monday 18
January
Gaelscoil Uí Néill, Washingbay Rd,
Coalisland
Beginner Irish
classes for
youth & adults
Tuesdays 7 -9pm
Beginner level
Commencing
Wednesday 27 January
Mondays
Donaghmore
Methodist Hall, Moy
AOH, Ballinderry
Phone AOH:
07710 552787
St Patricks GAA clubhouse, Eglish
Eglish GAC
Pat Wilson
Phone: 07895751977
6.30-7.30pm
commencing Monday 18
January
Mondays 7.30pm -9pm
Expac
Email: caoimhe.lynch@hotmail.com
Commencing Tuesday
26 January
Wednesdays 7pm 8.30pm
Irish classes
for kids
Email: gaelscoilaodharua@yahoo.ie
Cairde Uí Néill
E-mail: cairdeuineill@hotmail.com
Ballinderry
Irish classes
Eglish
028 877 53762
Phone: 07823773324
Irish Classes
Beginner,
Intermediate &
Advanced
classes
Moy Irish
classes
Gaelscoil Aodha Rua
E-mail: orlagh04@gmail.com
Torrent Complex, Donaghmore
BEAM
Innovative language
classes 8 weekly basic
Irish speaking lessons
using different activities:
Phone:
028 877 69157
Drama, Sport, Shopping,
Dancing, Music
Cookstown
Irish classes
for youth &
adults
Commencing Monday 25
January
Tuesdays
Fr Rocks GAC,
Fr Rocks GAC
7-8.30pm
Cookstown
Phone: 07775695717
E-mail:
Secretary.cookstownfrrocks.tyrone
@gaa.ie
Commencing Tuesday
26 January
Clogher
Valley
Beginner,
Intermediate &
advanced Irish
classes
New group – range of
classes
Various locations
Pobal an Ghleanna
07592302590
Commencing week
beginning Monday 1
February
Intensive Language Course has been successfully delivered by St Colm’s CLG
Ballinascreen with classes at 3 levels plus a GCSE class on the 16th January.
Monthly Burnavon Courses
Monthly courses: Nasc (advanced speakers) and Tús (complete beginners) will
continue alongside the monthly Ulster University diploma session in The Burnavon
10am-1pm. Admission is free and new comers are always welcome. See Burnavon
website for details.
Irish Language & Gaelic Cultural Schools project across MUDC
32 tutors applied to the public call for Irish Language tutors for project work in relation
to the Irish Language programme. 15 tutors were selected for the schools project
team and timetabling is underway for this programme which started week
commencing 25 January and week commencing 1 February. A training day was
delivered on Saturday 25 January in Ranfurly House, Dungannon to roll out the 8
week programme to 45 schools.
Afterschools Irish Language
Following the success of the Clogher Valley based afterschools 4 week Irish session,
Woodlands Adventure Afterschools, Clogher Valley will continue with a 10 week
afterschool session for primary children. Pomeroy Afterschools group will also
commence Irish Language after schools week commencing 1 February.
Pobal an Ghleanna
A new Irish Language group aimed
Irish Language in South Tyrone
Thursday 21 January in
centre. Irish Language Officer
launch giving an insight of Irish
activity in the area to date.
at promoting the
was launched on
Garvaghey GAA
presented at the
Language
Irish Language in the Community
Coiste Forbartha Charn Tóchair made us aware of recent decisions by Foras na
Gaeilge to implement in year cutbacks to the Scéim Pobail Gaeilge which will severely
impact their Irish language work programme to the end of this financial year and
throughout next year. Discussions ongoing to attempt to assist as much as possible.
Support given to Glór Bhaile na Scríne and Glór Mhachaire Fíolta to prepare an
application for funding for Scéim Pobail Gaeilge 2016-2020 for a development officer
and programme of development work.
At the recent Early Years Family Support Project “Tacú le
Teaghlaigh” publicity event in An Carn
Promotion of Irish within and by Mid Ulster District Council
A successful 6 week beginner’s course in spoken Irish with 25 participants concluded
on the 17th December. This course will now continue for a further 8 weeks in Council
Offices, Magherafelt, to finish on the 10th March.

Regional Start Initiative (RSI) New Business Start Programme 4G

Transcription

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