Agenda Document Pack - Economy and Regeneration Policy Board - 19/03/2024
Renfrewshire Council · 19 March 2024
Back to Economy and Regeneration Policy Board — 19 March 2024 and its agenda
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Notice of Meeting and Agenda Economy and Regeneration Policy Board Date Time Venue Tuesday, 19 March 2024 10:00 Council Chambers (Renfrewshire), Council Headquarters, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1AN MARK CONAGHAN Head of Corporate Governance Membership Councillor Andy Steel (Convener): Councillor Michelle Campbell (Depute Convener): Councillor Alison Ann-Dowling: Councillor Stephen Burns: Councillor Graeme Clark: Councillor Andy Doig: Councillor Neill Graham: Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes: Councillor Robert Innes: Councillor Janis McDonald: Councillor Jamie McGuire: Councillor Marie McGurk: Councillor Iain McMillan: Councillor John McNaughtan: Councillor Iain Nicolson: Further Information This is a meeting which is open to members of the public. A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx For further information, please email democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk Members of the Press and Public Members of the press and public wishing to attend the meeting should report to the customer service centre where they will be met and directed to the meeting. Hybrid Meeting Please note that this meeting is scheduled to be held in the Council Chambers. However, it is a hybrid meeting and arrangements have been made for members to join the meeting remotely should they wish.
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Webcasting of Meeting This meeting will be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site – at the start of the meeting the Convener will confirm if all or part of the meeting is being filmed. To find the webcast please navigate to https://renfrewshire.public-i.tv/core/portal/home
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Apologies Apologies from members. Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement. 1 Revenue and Capital Budget Monitoring Report as at 5 January 2024 Joint report by Chief Executive and Director of Finance & Resources. 1 - 8 2 Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2024 Report by Chief Executive. 9 - 16 3 AMIDS & Investment Zone Update Report by Chief Executive. 17 - 24 4 Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership - Commissioning Progress Report Report by Chief Executive. 25 - 36
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To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 19 March 2024 Report by: Chief Executive and Director of Finance and Resources Heading: Revenue and Capital Budget Monitoring as at 5 January 2024 1. Summary of Financial Position 1.1. The projected revenue outturn at 31 March 2024 for those services reporting to the Economy and Regeneration Board is an underspend position of £0.039 million (1.1%). 1.2. The projected capital outturn at 31 March 2024 for projects reporting to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board is a breakeven position against the revised budget for the year of £34.471 million. 1.3. This is summarised in the tables below and further analysis is provided in the Appendices. Table 1: Revenue Division Revised Annual Budget £000 Projected Annual Outturn £000 Budget Variance (Adv) / Fav £000 Budget Variance % Economy and Development 3,405 3,366 39 1.1% Table 2: Capital Division Revised Annual Budget £000 Projected Annual Outturn £000 Budget Variance (Adv) / Fav £000 Budget Variance % Economy and Development 34,471 34,471 0 0% Item 1 EAR190324 Page 1 of 36
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2. Recommendations 2.1. Members are requested to: (a) Note the projected Revenue outturn position detailed in Table 1 above; (b) Note the projected Capital outturn position detailed in Table 2 above; and (c) Note the budget adjustments detailed at sections 4 and 6. 3. Revenue 3.1. The Revenue Budget Monitoring report at Appendix 1 identifies a projected underspend of £0.039 million (1.1%) for all services reporting to this Policy Board. Detailed division service reports can also be found here, together with an explanation of any significant projected variances. 3.2. The projected outturn is based on information currently available, and assumptions made by service budget holders. Any changes to these projections will be detailed in future reports to the Board. 3.3. The main reasons for the projected outturn position are indicated below the tables showing both the subjective analysis (what the budget is spent on) and the objective analysis (which division is spending the budget). 4. Revenue Budget Adjustments Members are requested to note, from Appendix 1, that budget adjustments totalling £0.008 million have been processed since the previous report to board. The adjustment reflects funding transferred from the service in respect of property costs. 5. Capital 5.1. The Capital Investment Programme 2023/24 to 2027/28 was approved by the Council on 2 March 2023. 5.2. The Capital Monitoring report at Appendix 2 indicates a revised budget in 2023/24 for Economy and Regeneration of £34.471m. Further detail, including reasons for significant variances (where applicable), can be found at Appendix 2. 6. Capital Budget Adjustments 6.1. Since the last report, budget adjustments totalling (£2.039m) have arisen which reflect the following: Page 2 of 36
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Budget transfers between programmes (£0.154m) reflecting budget adjustments approved by Council within the General Fund Financial Update on 14 December 2023: • Paisley Town Hall Redevelopment £2.100m • Flexible Outdoor Facility/Travel & Accessibility Infrastructure (£2.100m) • Playing Fields and Sport Development (£0.154m) to Linwood Running Track within Leadership Board. Budget brought forward from 2024/25 into 2023/24 £1.189m: • Paisley Town Hall Redevelopment £0.250m as a result of updated cash flows received for the project. • Flexible Outdoor Facility/Travel & Accessibility Infrastructure £0.939m to facilitate the transfer to Paisley Town Hall Redevelopment in 2023/24 described above. Budget carried forward from 2023/24 into 2024/25 (£3.074m): • Playing Fields and Sports Development - (£2.699m) reflecting expected cash flow timings of St James Playing Fields Redevelopment after the project was redesigned and retendered in order for the project to remain within budget. • Paisley Museum – (£0.001m). • Town Centre Capital Fund/Regeneration - (£0.114m) – comprising of Erskine Arts (£0.074m) and Villages (£0.040m). • Place Based Fund - (£0.050m) for Heritage Renewal Programme. • RCGF PACE Theatre - (£0.210m). _ Page 3 of 36
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___________________________________________________________________ Implications of this report 1. Financial – The projected budget outturn position for the revenue budget reported to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board is an underspend of £0.039m. Income and expenditure will continue to be monitored closely for the rest of the financial year and, where necessary, steps will be taken to mitigate any overspend. The projected outturn position for capital budgets reported to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board is breakeven. The Capital programme will continue to be monitored closely for the rest of the financial year. Any changes to current projections in either Revenue or Capital budgets will be reported to the board as early as possible, along with an explanation for the movement. 2. HR and Organisational Development None directly arising from this report. 3. Community/Council Planning None directly arising from this report. 4. Legal None directly arising from this report. 5. Property/Assets The Capital expenditure in this board will result in improvements to Culture and Heritage assets and delivery of strategic place-shaping and regeneration. 6. Information Technology None directly arising from this report. 7. Equality and Human Rights None directly arising from this report. 8. Health and Safety None directly arising from this report. 9. Procurement None directly arising from this report. 10. Risk The potential risk that the Council will overspend its approved budgets for the year will be managed at a Council-wide level by the Chief Executive and Directors. Page 4 of 36
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11. Privacy Impact None directly arising from this report. 12. 13. Cosla Policy Position N/a. Climate Risk None directly arising from this report. __________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers __________________________________________________________________ Authors: Valerie Howie, Finance Business Partner (Revenue) and Linsey McGregor, Senior Accountant (Capital) Page 5 of 36
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Appendix 1 Objective Summary Annual Budget at Period 8 Budget Adjustments Revised Annual Budget at Period 10 Projected Outturn Previous Projected Outturn Variance Movement £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 Economy and Regeneration Management 81 0 81 80 1 1.2% 1 0 Economic Development 2,130 (2) 2,128 2,128 0 0.0% 0 0 Regeneration 1,202 (6) 1,196 1,158 38 3.2% 32 6 NET EXPENDITURE 3,413 (8) 3,405 3,366 39 1.10% 33 6 Objective Heading Key Reasons for Projected Variance Economy and Regeneration Management Economic Development Regeneration RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL REVENUE BUDGET MONITORING STATEMENT 2023/24 1 April 2023 to 5 January 2024 Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable POLICY BOARD : ECONOMY AND REGENERATION No significant projected year end variances to report. No significant projected year end variances to report. The projected underspend relates mainly to a higher than expected level of staff turnover. Page 6 of 36
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Appendix 1 Subjective Summary Annual Budget at Period 8 Budget Adjustments Revised Annual Budget at Period 10 Projected Outturn Previous Projected Outturn Variance Movement £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 Employees 4,838 0 4,838 4,790 48 1.0% 50 (2) Premises Related 80 (2) 78 70 8 10.3% (7) 15 Transport Related 3 0 3 4 (1) (33.3%) (1) 0 Supplies and Services 316 0 316 318 (2) (0.6%) (2) 0 Transfer Payments 4,642 (6) 4,636 4,630 6 0.1% 13 (7) Support Services 39 0 39 40 (1) (2.6%) (1) 0 GROSS EXPENDITURE 9,918 (8) 9,910 9,852 58 0.6% 52 6 Income (6,505) 0 (6,505) (6,486) (19) (0.3%) (19) 0 NET EXPENDITURE 3,413 (8) 3,405 3,366 39 1.1% 33 6 REVENUE BUDGET MONITORING STATEMENT 2023/24 1 April 2023 to 5 January 2024 Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL POLICY BOARD : ECONOMY AND REGENERATION Page 7 of 36
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Appendix 2 Prior Years Budget Budget Revised Projected Expenditure at P8 Adjustments Budget Outturn Total Approved Projected to 31/03/2023 2023-24 2023-24 2023-24 2023-24 Budget Outurn Project Title to 31-Mar-27 to 31-Mar-27 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 ECONOMY & DEVELOPMENT Paisley Art Centre Redevelopment 1,170 1,839 0 1,839 1,839 0 0% 3,050 3,050 0 0% Paisley Town Hall Redevelopment 17,132 4,668 2,350 7,018 7,018 0 0% 22,050 22,050 0 0% Flexible Outdoor Facility/Travel & Accessibility Infrastructure 485 1,172 (1,161) 11 11 0 0% 7,050 7,050 0 0% Playing Fields and Sports Development 783 4,817 (2,853) 1,963 1,963 0 0% 5,600 5,600 0 0% Paisley Museum 23,624 14,971 (1) 14,971 14,971 0 0% 45,522 45,522 0 0% Town Centre Capital Fund 759 167 (114) 53 53 0 0% 4,037 4,037 0 0% Paisley Learning & Cultural Hub 4,737 2,197 0 2,197 2,197 0 0% 7,000 7,000 0 0% Place Based Fund 859 1,400 (50) 1,350 1,350 0 0% 4,428 4,428 0 0% Paisley Junctions and Charging Hub 390 2,956 0 2,956 2,956 0 0% 3,346 3,346 0 0% Townscape Heritage CARS 2 3,086 1,014 0 1,014 1,014 0 0% 4,099 4,099 0 0% Shared prosperity fund 0 225 0 225 225 0 0% 0 0 0 0% RCGF PACE Theatre 0 1,084 (210) 874 874 0 0% 0 0 0 0% Total Economy & Development 53,025 36,510 (2,039) 34,471 34,471 0 0% 106,182 106,182 0 0% TOTAL ECONOMY & DEVELOPMENT 53,025 36,510 (2,039) 34,471 34,471 0 0% 106,182 106,182 0 0% *Rolling programmes have a prior year year expenditure of £0 as the expenditure is not directly linked from one year to the next as a singular project. RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL CAPITAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY - NON-HOUSING SERVICES 1st April to 5th January 2024 POLICY BOARD: ECONOMY & REGENERATION Current Year 2023-24 Full Programme - All years Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable Page 8 of 36
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___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 19 March 2024 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2024 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 This report updates the Board on progress in respect of external funding bids and delivery of key regeneration projects and presents the programmes being developed in 2024. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Board: (i) Approves the list of proposed projects for the 23/24 allocation of the Place Based Investment Programme (PBIP); (ii) Notes the progress and continuing actions to deliver projects from the range of regeneration funds identified in the report. 3. Background 3.1 In recent years the funding of regeneration projects has been reliant on support from national government and other external sources, often with ‘match- funding’ coming from the Council. A report to the Economy and Regeneration Board of 23 May 2023 outlined the range of external capital funds available and programmes under development. 3.2 In this context and over the past year officers have continued to progress various regeneration projects, programmes and strategies with the support of external funding from the UK and Scottish Governments as well as government agencies such as Visit Scotland and SEPA. This has supported efforts to regenerate and revitalise our town centres, support our communities and promote sustainable economic growth across Renfrewshire. Item 2 EAR190324 Page 9 of 36
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3.3 This report details the various funding streams which the Council have accessed and applied to over the past 12 months. 4. Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (Scottish Government) 4.1 The Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF) is one of the longest running funds available to local authorities having been offered annually since 2014. Renfrewshire Council has previously secured support from this fund for the Russell Institute, Paisley Learning and Cultural Hub and Paisley Museum. 4.2 The RCGF has also supported projects led by community led organisations (with the grant being passed to the Council to manage), such as those promoted by Linwood Community Development Trust, Active Communities, Johnstone and most recently the PACE Youth Theatre in Paisley. 4.3 The RCGF is an annual competitive fund open to all 32 Scottish local authorities. The fund is always heavily subscribed, meaning that many projects that are put forward are not funded. 4.4 The Board of 23 May 2023 approved the list of proposed bids to the RCGF for the 24/25 round of the scheme, as set out below. Applications were submitted in June 2023 and officers were invited to progress further detailed ‘Stage 2’ bids for two projects - Erskine Improvements and Foxbar Community Growing Space – which were submitted in November 2023. Table 1 24/25 RCGF Application Projects Potential RCGF Projects Location Summary Erskine TC Improvements Erskine Creator of incubator / business space within Erskine TC. Foxbar Community Growing Space - Foxbar, Paisley Development of a new community growing space at the site of the former St Paul’s PS site in Foxbar, supporting delivery of a key priority from the community led Foxbar Local Place Plan. The project supports wider regeneration outcomes in relation to promoting active lifestyles, contribution to net zero targets and community food growing. Castle Semple – Extension to visitor centre Lochwinnoch Applied for previously but not successful. Application was amended to consider recent consultation / visioning and create and enhance space at the visitor centre. Ferguslie Park – The Making Of Ferguslie, Paisley Development at ‘Neighbourhood Centre’ zone including Pump (cycle) Track, supporting delivery of a key priority from the community led ‘Making of Ferguslie’ Local Place Plan. Page 10 of 36
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4.5 In early 2024 Scottish Government advised the Council that following a reduction in the regeneration capital budget, a review is underway of the delivery of the RCGF and associated programmes. This has delayed a decision on the applications outlined above however officers will continue to monitor the situation and provide an update at a future board. 5 Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme (Scottish Government) 5.1 The Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme (VDLIP) is a multi-year Scottish Government fund which supports the transformation and reuse of long term vacant and derelict sites. 5.2 The Economy and Regeneration Board of 23 May 2023 approved the submission of a VDLIP application to support delivery of the Making of Ferguslie, the community led Local Place Plan for the neighbourhood. An application was submitted in June 2023 for the transformation of 2.69ha of land within the Belltrees area of Ferguslie Park as a multi-functional greenspace providing for natural play, activity space and improved active travel connections within the neighbourhood and beyond. 5.3 Officers were invited to progress a further detailed Stage 2 bid, which was submitted in November 2023. As with the RCGF applications, due to the reduction in the regeneration capital budget any decision on this application has been delayed. Again, officers will monitor the situation and provide an update a further board. 6 Place Based Investment Programme (PBIP; Scottish Government) 6.1 Since 2019 the Council have used funding from the PBIP (and its previous iteration, the Town Centre Regeneration Fund) to accelerate capital investment, supporting delivery of actions within our town centre strategies, community led regeneration proposals and community led place plans such as the Making of Ferguslie, to accelerate the Council’s overall placeshaping agenda. 6.2 Through this fund the Council have supported and delivered a wide range of projects across Renfrewshire including community led projects such as the creation of a community well-being hub and bike shop, restoration of various listed buildings and vacant commercial units as well as enhancements to public realm. 6.3 The Council’s 23/24 PBIP funding totalled £723,000. The following table sets out the projects proposed for the 2023/24 budget to be delivered in 2024, which continue to closely align with progressing the Council’s placeshaping strategy. Page 11 of 36
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Table 2 Place Based Investment Fund Projects 2023/24 awards, summary update at March 2024 Project summary Estimated Cost Estimated Completion 1. Regeneration Grant Funding Additional funding to support the existing Retail Improvement Scheme (to supplement the Council motion), Historic Buildings in Villages Grants scheme and Vacant Shops Grant Scheme. £100,000 Winter 2024 2. Erskine TC enhancements Public realm improvements supporting the delivery of the Erskine Town Centre Strategy. £140,000 TBD 3. Castle Semple enhancements Works to demolish existing toilet block and construct a new block/cycle hub facility. £360,000 Winter 2024 4. Wallace Monument Soft landscaping works around the monument including new shrub and bulb planting, treeworks and areas of wildflower meadow supporting local biodiversity, alongside more formal grass areas as a space for local community events. £43,000 Summer 2024 5. Whitehaugh Barracks and Garages Funding to support the Western Desert Recce Group in their restoration of the barracks into a museum. Specifically, funding will be used for immediate repairs to the garage block enabling the buildings to become wind and watertight for occupation and for activity to commence. £80,000 Autumn 2024 7 Council Motion (29 February 2024) 7.1 At the full Council meeting held on the 29th of February 2024, additional monies were allocated to support regeneration projects. £70k was allocated to supplement the existing Retail Improvement Scheme (RIS) and £50k to the development of the Oakshaw Heritage Trail. Page 12 of 36
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7.2 The RIS allocation will be used to support a future run of the scheme in 2024 and officers will explore how best to use the heritage trail allocation, potentially looking at replacing modern lampposts on Oakshaw Street with those in the traditional style. 8 Shared Prosperity Fund (UK Government) 8.1 The Council have received funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF). Further details can be found in the UK Shared Prosperity Fund – Year 1 Report paper which is dealt with in a separate Board report. 8.2 The Regeneration and Place Team are leading on the Communities and Place element of the fund. To date funding has been used to supplement the Council’s new Sustainable Communities Fund proving capital and revenue investment to a number of projects including Whitehaugh Barracks, India Tyres Playing Fields and Howwood Park Pavilion. 8.3 The SPF has also been used to fund feasibility and capital works to support the delivery of the Making Of Ferguslie local place plan. This has included developing design proposals for the Belltrees and Neighbourhood centres and funding capital improvement works to the St Ninians Community Hall. 8.4 Funding also been used to assist in the development of a new Vision for Johnstone Town Centre as well as emerging proposals for public realm enhancements around Erskine. It also funded a structural condition study for the Steeple Buildings in Kilbarchan. 8.5 Officers will continue to use the funding to support the communities and place investment priority which aims to strengthen the social fabric of Renfrewshire’s communities. 9 Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (Visit Scotland) 9.1 In March 2022, the Council successfully applied to Visit Scotland to receive funding from the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) to produce an infrastructure plan for Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. The plan focuses primarily on Castle Semple but also includes Muirshiel Country Park and strategic linkages to Renfrewshire’s towns and villages. 9.2 This plan has been used as a basis for a further application to RTIF in September 2023 to secure funding for a design grant for a new toilet block/cycling hub at Castle Semple. 9.3 Officers have been in discussions with Visit Scotland as to whether there is any future RTIF funding available. No announcement has been made as Visit Scotland assess the funding implications of the recent Scottish Government budget announcement. Page 13 of 36
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10 Water Environment Fund (SEPA) 10.1 The Board of 23 May 2023 noted that SEPA has identified an opportunity for the restoration and improvement of the Candren Burn within Ferguslie Park, Paisley, contributing to delivery of the Making of Ferguslie local place plan. 10.2 Funds have been secured from SEPA’s Water Environment Fund (WEF) to support a feasibility study which could lead to multiple benefits, including improvements to the physical and ecological condition of the water body and enhanced climate resilience. 10.3 Officers with assistance from SEPA and the Green Action Trust are currently in the process of procuring a specialist consultant to carry out the study, which is anticipated to progress over spring and summer 2024. 11 Heritage funding (Historic Environment Scotland, National Lottery Heritage Fund) 11.1 As noted in the 23 May 2023 paper to this board officers had previously submitted unsuccessful place-based applications to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) and Historic Environment Scotland (HES) to fund the development phase of the ‘Renfrewshire Villages Loop: Kilbarchan to Johnstone. Reviving Dynamic Heritage’ project. 11.2 Feedback from the funding bodies indicated that a further place-based bid around Johnstone Town Centre could be considered in respect of NLHF and that there could be scope to complement this with a project focused bid to HES. Officers will consider submitting expressions of interest in the context of the emerging Johnstone Town Centre Vision and will provide an update to the Board as appropriate. 12 Next Steps 12.1 Officers will continue to seek out external funding opportunities to fulfil our main priority of regenerating and revitalising Renfrewshire’s towns, villages and rural locations, helping to develop places where people want to live, work, visit and spend time. 12.2 Progress on funding applications and delivery of associated actions will be reported to Board at regular intervals as appropriate. _____________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – No additional funding is sought. All funding is accounted for within existing Council budgets and external funding. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. Page 14 of 36
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3. Community/Council Planning – Creating a Sustainable Renfrewshire for all to enjoy – delivery of projects and submission of funding applications supports the Council’s wider placeshaping agenda, improving quality of place, our neighbourhoods and town centres. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact - None. 12. COSLA Policy Position – Not Applicable. 13. Climate Risk – Not Applicable. ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers (a) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2022. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 14 June 2022. (b) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2023. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 23 May 2023. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Euan Shearer; Regeneration and Place Manager; Tel 0141 6184664. Email: euan.shearer@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 15 of 36
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___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy & Regeneration Policy Board On: 19 March 2024 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: AMIDS & Investment Zone Update ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1. To provide an update on the progress being made at the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District to bring forward the next phase of development and an update on the ongoing work on the Glasgow City Region Investment Zone. _________________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1. Note the progress at AMIDS and joint working with external agencies and partners to secure the next phases of investment. 2.2. Note the proposed submission as outlined in 7.0 and confirm that updates and required approvals will be reported to Board at regular intervals as appropriate. _________________________________________________________________________ 3. Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS) Background 3.1. The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS) is on a journey to become ‘Scotland’s home of manufacturing innovation’. The 52 hectare site located next to Glasgow Airport is supported by new infrastructure in the form of roads, bridges, utilities, public realm space, and active travel connections. All enabling infrastructure was funded by the Glasgow City Region City Deal. 3.2. The concept of AMIDS is to deliver a world class innovation district with the objective of positively enhancing the economy of both Renfrewshire and Scotland as whole. This will be achieved through collaborative working between the education, public, and private sector. Item 3 EAR190324 Page 17 of 36
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Creating a focus on advanced manufacturing at the district will allow a cluster effect to be generated, in turn, attracting global organisations to Renfrewshire. 3.3. AMIDS has successfully established itself in the advanced manufacturing sector by securing two anchor tenants – The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), and the Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre (MMIC). With both centres now fully operational, the process of developing the district further will build on this success. 3.4. At the recent Scottish Property Awards the NMIS building won two notable awards; Architectural Excellence (Public Use) and Large Development of the Year (Public Buildings) reflecting the high quality that we are aiming for at AMIDS. The new Paisley Central Library also won an the ESG Refurbishment of the Year award, taken together these projects all contribute to the Councils focus on Placeshaping. 3.5. To drive momentum, Renfrewshire Council entered into a joint venture with Buccleuch Property. This partnership will bring focus and investment to expand collaboration and drive development on site. AMIDS continues to gain recognition and work is continuing to bring the next organisation on site. 4. AMIDS Development 4.1. Following the appointment of Buccleuch Property as the Council’s joint venture development partner, work has been progressing on the next phases of development on site. The agreement with Buccleuch stipulates that a speculative build must take place. This speculative development will see the construction of two terraced units that encompass ten individual units. These units will offer space at the optimal size for start up or spinoff companies. This development has been titled ‘Tech Terrace’, with marketing currently being progressed to support this. 4.2. Based on enquiries to date, and industry communication, this space is in high demand with multiple organisations looking for growth space which is in short supply. This supports the model chosen to progress a speculative build to speed up the availability of advanced manufacturing growth space, rather than wait for specific agreements to be made on an individual basis prior to constructing. Economies of scale also mean that a more efficient cost model can be achieved by constructing ten units together. 4.3. Timescales for construction are currently planned for a 2026 completion of Tech Terrace. Work is well advanced with design, which will be followed by the planning permission process, then procurement of a contractor to construct. This offers sufficient time to continue working on securing occupiers for these units. 4.4. Whilst Tech Terrace design is underway, work is progressing simultaneously on securing further occupiers for bespoke build units on the AMIDS site. Work has taken place with one organisation to design a bespoke unit and discuss commercial terms for them to move to the site. Work will continue with these negotiations with support from multiple organisations including Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government. Page 18 of 36
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Numerous other enquiries are progressing, and specifically, a further two leads have progressed to the point where building requirements and commercial terms will now be discussed. 4.5. Beyond these active negotiations and enquiries, it was recently announced that CPI who operate MMIC would be extending their development on AMIDS to deliver the Oligonucleotide Manufacturing Innovation Centre of Excellence (OMICE). This multi million pound investment will see a second unit constructed on AMIDS to ensure that Renfrewshire and Scotland are at the forefront of medicines innovation. This development will be the next physically constructed building to complete on site and shows the confidence that the industry has in AMIDS to succeed by implementing this investment so shortly after opening MMIC. 5. AMIDS Support Model 5.1. AMIDS benefits from a wide-reaching support model. From industry experts to government organisations, it has the optimal network to deliver on the ambitions of becoming Scotland’s home of manufacturing innovation. There are two key dimensions to the development of AMIDS: The physical construction, and securing market leads, The development of partnership working, clusters, and collaborative innovation. 5.2. To achieve the above two dimensions, a wide network of support has been implemented. The primary driver to achieve success has been the establishment of the joint venture. This partnership will being property, commercial, marketing, and construction expertise with a global reach. To support this, AMIDS has developed a Strategic Advisory Group (SAG). This group has been set up to provide advice and guidance to the development of AMIDS. The group consists of senior / executive staff from the following organisations: Renfrewshire Council (joint chair) Scottish Enterprise (joint chair) NMIS CPI (MMIC / OMICE) Scottish Government Skills Development Scotland West College Scotland University of Strathclyde 5.3. In 2022, a report conducted by the University of Strathclyde and CPI established that AMIDS has greatest potential from a skills and innovation perspective to target the following four sectors: Space Pharma Photonics Net Zero Page 19 of 36
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5.4. Whilst AMIDS is open for all sectors, a focus on these four has allowed key partner organisations to provide subject matter experts to assist with market engagement. It has been recognised that due to the specialist technical nature of advanced manufacturing, expert advice will assist in negotiation as well as providing advice in relation to requirements, support models, and partnership working. 5.5. Beyond these two support models, a new role will shortly be implemented to enhance the ability and coordination of AMIDS as it progresses to an occupied innovation district. A Partnership Director will soon be appointed and will report to the joint SAG. This role will be recruited and employed by University of Strathclyde, and is co- funded by University of Strathclyde, CPI, and Scottish Enterprise. This role will work with all partners including the joint venture organisation to market AMIDS, but more importantly to drive innovation and partnership working with organisation based at AMIDS. The Partnership Director will play an important role in ensuring that support models and packages are coordinated and implemented for AMIDS organisations. 6. Communications and Marketing 6.1. To continue the early success of AMIDS, it is recognised that promotion in the form of brand management and marketing must take place. A recent exercise has been undertaken to create a brand for AMIDS. This exercise established that the term AMIDS is well recognised in the industry, and this should be taken advantage of to continue to promote the term at a national and global level. 6.2. The first deliverable from this process was to create a brand logo. The below image shows what this will look like as a template. Due to the clean, crisp nature, this is a very flexible logo and will be used in multiple formats with supporting text where applicable. 6.3. Shortly, a dedicated website will be launched to drive traffic to AMIDS specific information including all marketing information and enquiry details. Page 20 of 36
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This will be developed at the same time as specific marketing collateral which will be used to communicate the opportunity AMIDS offers, to the industry when seeking future occupants and hosting negotiations. 7. Investment Zone 7.1 In June 2023, following an agreement between the UK Government and Scottish Governments, it was announced that both the Glasgow City Region (GCR) and the North-East of Scotland had been awarded Investment Zones (IZ) status, the first such zones in Scotland. This commitment has been backed by funding, which can be used flexibly between capital and revenue investment and tax incentives for investing companies. The overall goal is to deliver economic growth, secure more investment and create more high value jobs within the Region. 7.2 In respect of the tax incentives, the Scottish and UK governments are offering the following tax reliefs in designated tax sites within each Investment Zone: Land & Buildings Transaction Tax Non-Domestic Rates Enhanced Capital Allowance Enhanced Structures and Buildings Allowance Employer National Insurance Contributions 7.3 Each IZ can have three designated tax sites, which should be a maximum of 200 ha each. Larger ones will be considered based on economic merit so long as the Region’s total does not exceed 600ha overall. Each tax site can choose which incentives they wish to utilise. 7.4 The guidance also states that the IZ partnership can agree up to three NDRR (Non-Domestic Rate Retention) sites, within which the Region will be able to retain up to 100% of any future growth in non-domestic rates above an agreed baseline over 20 years. It is expected that the GCR will pursue this and use the retention monies to fund projects across the Region. 7.5 Capital investment support can include funding for new buildings, enabling infrastructure, equipment and machinery. Whereas revenue funding can be used to support initiatives such as skills development programmes. 7.6 In the UK Government’s Autumn Statement (Wednesday 22 November 2023), the Chancellor made a commitment to the expansion of the planned Investment Zone programme in Scotland. These changes will mean extending the timeline from five to ten years and doubling the grant to each Investment Zone from £80m to £160m. 7.7 Since the announcement, on-going activities between GCR’s Programme Management Office and Member Authorities, as well as the Scottish and UK Governments have identified three key priority sectors which will guide investment, these are: Advanced Manufacturing Page 21 of 36
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Health & Life Sciences Digital & Enabling Technology The GCR in their submission to the UK/Scottish Government’s will choose a primary sector for the IZ. 7.8 The next phase is to determine which areas/projects within the Region should be included in the GCR submission to the governments. An ‘Open Call’ for sites launched in January 2024 focussing on the three priority clusters identified above, aimed at organisations/businesses across GCR which have been highlighted by the individual local authorities in earlier work. This approach will incorporate the HM Treasury ‘Green Book’ business case development guidance. This application phase will run until the end of March 2024. 7.9 In respect of a Council bid, officers are working with our JV partner Buccleuch to submit a bid primarily for the site at Netherton Campus. It is proposed that the Council’s submission will cover the following: Tax Site: Development of a tax site consisting of Netherton Campus alongside potentially Westway and areas of Glasgow Airport. Capital investment: Include an enabling infrastructure project to deal with ground conditions at Netherton Campus with the aim of reducing the viability gap and acting as a catalyst for future development at the site. Revenue investment: Potential to link Tech Terrace development proposed by the AMIDS JV with NMIS and other educational providers. Spin-off potential for an innovation/accelerator programme. 7.10 Members are asked to note the above proposed submission. 7.11 It is expected that other key stakeholders within Renfrewshire will also submit bids, including Glasgow Airport, University of Strathclyde/NMIS, MMIC/CPI, the University of the West of Scotland and private businesses. Officers have held meetings with these stakeholders, with the intention of working collaboratively, to ensure that all bids have a common narrative around developing Renfrewshire as a key cluster for innovation and advanced manufacturing which supports the regional and national economies. 7.12 Once all applications have been received, the GCR will score applications and submit a finalised bid to the UK/Scot Governments early summer. The final decision, agreement and sign-off resides with UK and Scottish Governments. Below is a detailed timeline for the GCR IZ submission: 8 January 2024: Application for Open call for sites/projects launched; 31 March 2024: Call closes; April 2024: GCR conducts strategic assessment of bids; 7 May 2024: GCR Cabinet approval of cluster identification / shortlisted projects; April/May 2024: Development of GCR IZ proposal for submission to UK/Scottish Governments Summer 2024: Submission and Government ‘approval’ of GCR IZ proposal Page 22 of 36
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7.13 Progress on the GCR IZ bid and updates on approvals will be reported to Board at regular intervals as appropriate. ________________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – Our Renfrewshire is thriving – AMIDS will deliver an economic boost bringing thousands of jobs to the local area. Our Renfrewshire is well – AMIDS will bring new talent, career opportunities and economic advantages. Reshaping our place, our economy and our future – AMIDS will transform a previous derelict and unoccupied area of land. This has already seen the transformation of core infrastructure, and buildings will now follow to enhance the area. Tackling inequality, ensuring opportunities for all – AMIDS will deliver job opportunities at all levels within multiple different sectors. Creating a sustainable Renfrewshire for all to enjoy – Net Zero is a key feature of innovation that is being sought at AMIDS. The area is also supported by a district heating network for low carbon heat to premises. Working together to improve outcomes – AMIDS will see partnership working between the public, private, and education sectors bringing a wealth of experience. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights - (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report because it is for noting only. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. Page 23 of 36
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8. Health & Safety – all health and safety legislation and standards will be followed during construction. 9. Procurement – all contracts are tendered in accordance with Council procurement procedures and where relevant taken to FRCS Board for approval. 10. Risk – Project specific and Programme level risk registers have been established for all projects. These are kept under regular review and reported to the Council’s internal City Deal and Infrastructure Programme Board. 11. Privacy Impact – None. 12. COSLA Policy Position – Not applicable. 13. Climate Risk – AMIDS seeks to deliver sustainable construction that will be supported by a district heating network. Active travel is a key component of the development. _________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers None. __________________________________________________________________ Author: Barbara Walker 07727 377 977 Page 24 of 36
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___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 19 March 2024 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership - Commissioning Progress Report ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Employability resources, previously managed nationally, now come to local authorities for distribution to best effect, augmenting statutory provision. Local Employability Partnerships (LEPs) have been established in all areas across Scotland to commission local services based on the needs of the area. 1.2 Following approval by Renfrewshire Councils’ Leadership Board in September 2021, a new partnership grants process for employability service delivery managed by the Council and delivered through the Local Employability Partnership (LEP) was established. 1.3 The grants process was extended during 2023 to incorporate funding streams from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for the Multiply Programme and, most recently, to establish a Business Challenge Fund. 1.4 This report provides an overview of funding to date through the LEP grants process and specifically reports on the recent Business Challenge Fund process and Round 3 of the Employability Grants Programme. _____________________________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1 Board Members are asked to: Note the progress made by Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership in delivering grant programmes under both UK and Scottish Government funding schemes over the last 2 years; Item 4 EAR190324 Page 25 of 36
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Note the recommendations from the LEP to approve 6 applications for 2024- 25 under the new Business Challenge Fund, and Agree that officers in Economic Development will monitor and report on these activities/spend and will claim funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as appropriate from the Renfrewshire allocation. Note the recommendations of the LEP to approve 24 applications under the third round of the Employability Grant Programme, and Agree that officers in Economic Development will monitor and report on these activities/spend and will claim funding from both Scottish Government Employability Grants and UK Shared Prosperity Fund as appropriate to cover costs. _________________________________________________________ 3 Background 3.1 Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership (RLEP) has been established for over 10 years and Annexe A (to this report) provides details of current LEP members. 3.2 A new co-commissioning approach and process was established through the LEP as the Renfrewshire Employability Grants programme which would provide an open and transparent approach offering all local employability providers the opportunity to get involved in local delivery, including local third sector organisations. Renfrewshire Council retains the responsibility and accountability for reporting and claiming external finance with the LEP having responsibility to identify local needs and jointly commission new service delivery. 3.3 The LEP partnership commissioning approach further evolved in 2022/23 to support local access to the Renfrewshire funding via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and as such the LEP Commissioning Grants programme now has 3 themes: Employability; Multiply - a UK SPF programme supporting improved numeracy; Business Development Support (UK SPF) 3.4 The table below represents LEP Commissioning to date. Employability Delivery Timeframe Funding Committed Comments Round 1 January 2022 – March 2023 £1,000,000 Completed Round 2 April 2023 – March 2024 £840,000 Currently being delivered. Page 26 of 36
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Employability Delivery Timeframe Funding Committed Comments Round 3 April 2024 – March 2025 Estimate £800,000 Currently being commissioned, details in this report. Multiply: Round 1 Jan 2023 - March 2025 £365,000 Currently being delivered. (progress on the Multiply Programme will be reported under a future SPF report.) Business Challenge Fund: Round 1 Feb 2024 – March 2025 £500,000 Currently being commissioned, details in this report. 4. The Renfrewshire LEP Grants Process 4.1 A similar grants process is followed across all 3 of the grant themes. Grant Process: Grant opens for applications – information and application published on Renfrewshire Council/Invest websites and shared via local networks Information session for potential applicants Assessment process - LEP members and other stakeholders as appropriate. Scoring matrix used for all applications and recommendations made the LEP LEP approval of assessment recommendations Application outcomes notified to all applicants Commissioning meetings with all successful applicants Award letters issued Regular performance and financial monitoring meetings/delivery partner meetings/ other promotional activity to maximise engagement, referrals and outcomes. Performance reported to the LEP regularly and annually to the Community Planning Executive Board 4.2 To ensure best value the grants programmes must fill gaps in service/provision and complement rather than duplicate existing provision. A comprehensive assessment process is in place to ensure cost-effectiveness without compromising programme quality. Any issues or potential areas for improvement in relation to cost and best value are discussed at the commissioning meetings held with each successful delivery partner. Where required, delivery partners will be asked to revise aspects of their budget, project delivery and output and outcome targets. 4.3 For each theme, a comprehensive needs assessment process is undertaken, gathering and analysing a broad range of data and evidence to inform each grants framework including evidence gathered from lived experience and stakeholder engagement. Page 27 of 36
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The outcomes each programme is addressing, and priority groups and any eligibility conditions for programme participants are shaped by this needs assessment process as well as the guidelines and requirements of the associated funding programmes (Scottish Government No One Left Behind and UK Shared Prosperity Funding). 4.4 The monitoring process includes regular reviews of performance to ensure that any changes in delivery do not impact on our best value expectations of the projects, with improvement actions or reductions in funding being applied where appropriate. 4.5 The current outcomes and types of activity supported for each of the 3 grants themes are outlined below: Grant Theme and value Outcomes Activity Eligible Sectors Employability £1M for Jan 22- March 23 £840k for financial year 23/24 Estimate £900k for financial year 24/25 (awaiting confirmation of funding) 1.Reduce unemployment and economic inactivity levels. 2.Reduce the gap in unemployment/employment rates for targeted geographies and groups. 3.Ensure that our residents have the appropriate skills and are suitably prepared and informed to match those required by local businesses and others within reach. 4.Contribute to reducing child poverty through increasing income from employment for (low income) parents. 1.Engagement/Pre-vocational support/barrier removal. 2.Vocational training 3.School leaver programmes. 4.Self Employment Support. 5.Specialist support for key groups (offenders; people with disabilities/long term conditions; refugees) 6. Parental employment support 7.Mental health support. Public; Third; FE/HE and Private Multiply £365k, (2022- 2025) Increase adult (age 19yrs +) numeracy in Renfrewshire by supporting adult learners to improve their understanding and use of maths in their daily lives, at home and at work 1.Courses/activity designed to increase confidence with numbers including for those needing the first steps towards formal qualifications. 2.Courses for parents wanting to increase their numeracy skills in order to help their children and help with their own progression. 3.Courses/activity to improve money management skills. 4. Intensive & flexible courses targeted at those without Level 5 maths Third Sector and FE/HE Business Development Support local businesses to thrive, innovate and grow 1.Business growth and productivity. 2.Business sustainability and net-zero Public, private, FE/HE and third sectors Page 28 of 36
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Grant Theme and value Outcomes Activity Eligible Sectors £500k Jan 24- March 25 3. Innovation and collaboration 4.Internationalisation 5. Digital Upskilling 5. The Renfrewshire Employability Grants Programme (Jan 22 – Present) 5.1 The first Employability Grant Programme completed in March 2023 with 11 providers providing 20 different services/programmes to 584 people. The final programme costs were less than originally approved (£1.04m against a budget of £1.7m). This reflected lower participant numbers than anticipated, in part down to lower unemployment levels and engagement challenges. Many providers felt that COVID had impacted on motivation levels and mental health and wellbeing. 5.2 The second employability grant programme (financial year 2023-24) is currently being delivered and is valued at £840k for the year. Funding was provided to deliver 25 separate programmes (around 640 training/support opportunities) through 16 providers and to 400+ participants (around 380 participants have participated to date). The 2023-24 programme included mental health support for the first time, due to a large number of employability clients presenting with mental health issues, impacting on their progress and had a significant focus on unemployed and low- income parents due to the increased levels of Scottish Government Parental Employment Support funding being allocated from Child Poverty budgets. 5.3 The LEP have just completed the commissioning of services through the grant process for the third year to cover the financial year 2024-25. The services commissioned form part of a much wider employability support offer across Renfrewshire and an annual plan is produced reflecting the budgets and programmes for the year. Further information on this programme will come to board later this year. 5.4 For the 24-25 Employability Grants programme 36 applications were received from 24 organisations, 24 applications have been recommended for LEP approval under various themes: Theme 1: Refugee/asylum seekers with poor or no English language skills Application Participants Cost £ awarded places WCS ESOL for Employability 20 £11,000 £11,000 20 Saltire 32 £6400 £4800 24 Total £55,472 £15,800 44 Page 29 of 36
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Theme 2: Unemployed (or low income) residents requiring vocational skills to progress in employment. Application Participants Cost £awarded places WCS Construction Skills 8 £16,768 £16,768 8 GTC: Warehouse and Storage Training Programme 12 £17,858 £17,858 12 Princes Trust – Get Into/Electrical Installation/Manufacturing 20 £39,749 £39,749 20 Hub International - 56 £75,943 £57,500 42 Total £204,597 £131,875 82 Theme 3: Unemployed people or low-income residents wishing to pursue self- employment. Application Participants Cost £awarded places BDS Ltd 20 £44,400 £44,400 20 Total £44,400 Theme 4: Unemployed or economically inactive people with disabilities or long-term conditions. Application Participants Cost £awarded Places Values into Action Scotland (VIAS) Triple E 25 £99,999 £99,999 25+ tbc Total £230,213 £99,999 25+ tbc Theme 5: Unemployed or low paid parents/kinship carers. Application Participants Cost £awarded Places WCS YES Unemployed Parental Support Programme 20 £11,251 £11,251 20 IWG Charity Music Experience Programme 12 £12,422 £15,000 12 Glasgow Clyde College 60 £12,100 £8,000 30? REEM Thriving Families Project 50 £53,022 £20,000 30? Total £244,017 £54,251 92 Theme 6: Unemployed or economically inactive Renfrewshire residents whose mental health is negatively impacting on their ability to engage with employability support; progress towards; and/or sustain employment or training. Application Participants Cost £award Places Youth Interventions Inspired 60 £16,698 c.£16,000 40 RAMH Mental Health Support 164 £65,020 c.£60,000 160 Total £81,718 £76,000 200 Theme 7: Criminal Justice experienced population. Page 30 of 36
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Application Participants Cost £award Places The Lennox Partnership STRIVE – Second Chance 20 £47,262 £23,500 10 WCS YES Criminal Justice Programme 20 £18,720 £18720 20 APEX Labyrinth 40 £87,920 £44,000 20 Total £165,996 £86,220 50 Theme 8a: Care Experienced Young People. Application Participants Cost £award Places House of Seisay 20 £34,550 £17,000 max 10 Total £96,150 £17,000 10 Theme 8b: Young people how have left school and are unemployed. Application Participants Cost £award Places Street League Connected 36 £67,000 £67,000 36 The Lennox Partnership STRIVE: Youth Employment 36 £57,430 £15,000 9 Kibbleworks – Future Ready 20 £15,870 15,869 20 Barnardos Step2Work 50 £86,468 £86,468 50 Barnardos Works Best 36 £42,260 £42,260 36 Impact Arts – Express Yourself Renfrewshire 20 £30,670 £30,670 20 Total £449,294 £257,267 171 6. Renfrewshire Business Challenge Fund 6.1 The newest of the LEP Grants themes is Business Development which was introduced to broaden the scope of business support available in Renfrewshire, utilising Shared Prosperity funding. 6.2 An initial £0.5M has been allocated to support a Renfrewshire Business Challenge Fund for January 2024 – end March 2025 to allow the public, private, education and third sectors in the area to identify and develop proposals to support local businesses. This will help to strengthen Renfrewshire’s economy in a fair and inclusive way. The creation of the fund was previously approved by the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board. 6.3 Eight proposals with a total value of £490k were submitted. All bids were scored and 6 bids were recommended for approval by the scoring panel. The recommendations were endorsed by the LEP at the meeting on Tuesday 6th February 2024. 6.4 The 6 bids provide a good range of new and additional services to the Renfrewshire area and providing some specific sectoral approaches and thematic approaches. Page 31 of 36
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6.5 The 6 successful bids total £424,596 leaving £75,404 for the possibility of a second round or to augment successful programmes during the year. 7. Conclusion 7.1 Looking ahead, the LEP commissioning process will continue to ensure any gaps in services can be filled through the grants process and will adjust to fit the ever changing economic landscape. 7.2 The LEP reports separately through the Community Planning Partnership on joint work and an annual report to the Community Planning Executive Group provides an overview of all activities. The Community Planning Process is a recognised governance structure for partnership working and co-commissioning of services for both Scottish and UK Government. 7.3 Further progress reports will be brought back to the Economy and Regeneration Board on completion of full year grant programmes as well as separate Board updates on UK SPF and No-One Left Behind funding will be provided. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – The commissioning process is funded through grant allocations from Scottish and UK Governments, managed by the Councils Economic Development Team. Funding is secured for the year ahead. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – Applicant Project Title Description Funding National Manufacturing Institute Scotland PROductivity and Digital Innovation for Growing Your Business 3D printing and cobotics delivered through interactive training workshops and bespoke practical training. £98,527 West College Scotland Smart Sustainability Smart sustainability and Net Zero courses delivered through the college to help expand growth businesses £97,469 Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Trade Missions Support Support for business that are ready to take their first steps to trade missions‐ encourage the growth of international trade £49,000 Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Business Mentoring Peer mentoring service for local SMEs to provide support with business strategy and innovation. £24,500 Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Internationalisation Develop the capacity and capability of businesses to trade abroad through workshops webinars and consultations £96,350 Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce AI Adoption and Innovation Programme Dedicated one to one consultancy and business support programme‐ support the growth of A1 tools and platforms and digital upskilling for staff £58,750 Page 32 of 36
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Our Renfrewshire is thriving – the report provides information on LEP commissioning of services. The LEP reports to the Community Planning Partnership and consists of the various strategic partners in the area working together to develop joint plans for the delivery of local services. The LEP is responsible for co-commissioning services with the use of external funds from both Scottish and UK Governments, the funds are managed and reported though the council to the funding bodies. The co-commissioned services contribute significantly to local priorities: Reshaping our place, our economy and our future – supporting both the employability skills and progression of local people and the growth and support to local businesses. Tackling inequality, ensuring opportunities for all – employability funding is provided through the Scottish Governments No-one Left Behind programme with a focus on those most disengaged / disadvantaged. Working together to improve outcomes – the Renfrewshire LEP is a really strong and well known partnership (widely considered best practice in Scotland) where joint planning, shared resources and a shared delivery plan are developed each year and services are commissioned jointly to fill any gaps in service delivery. 4. Legal – None. Previous legal advice was sought in the development of the grants programme. 5. Property/Assets - None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights - (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – minimal. The grants process is well established and there are a number of measures in places to ensure that there is minimal risk to the council. 11. Privacy Impact – the process involves considerable amounts of personal and sensitive information but this is embedded in existing practice and data controls are in place for sharing and processing information. 12. Cosla Policy Position – Not Applicable. Page 33 of 36
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13. Climate Risk – Not Applicable. _________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers Community Planning Executive Board. 22nd January 2024, “ Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership - Commissioning Progress Report, November 2023.” Economy and Regeneration Board, 7 November 2023, “Shared Prosperity Funding: Business Challenge Fund” Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 29 August 2023, “No-One Left Behind: Employability Award” Economy and Regeneration Board 14th June 2022; Employability Funding: No-One Left Behind The foregoing background papers will be retained within the Economic Development Service for inspection by the public for the prescribed period of four years from the date of the meeting. The contact officer within the service is Ruth Cooper, Economic Development Manager. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Ruth Cooper Economic Development Manager ruth.cooper@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 34 of 36
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Annexe A: Renfrewshire LEP Members Member Organisation Representative Specific role/responsibilities Developing the Young Workforce – West Region Bob Davidson To represent DYW regional group and our role in DYW / education and our new role in encouraging employers to support the YPG DWP (Jobcentre Plus) Marjory Smith Supply customer insight, support promotion of provision, identify gaps in provision. Engage Renfrewshire Iain Cunningham Connection to local voluntary sector network; ensuring 2 way information; Managing role of volunteering within the employability pipeline; Supporting community/service user engagement and participation NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde/Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership Lesley Nish Connection to health and care policies and plans . Supporting and promoting integrated/partnership approaches linking health and wellbeing and employability. Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce; Bob Grant Connection to local employers. Provision of local employer insight. Supporting and promoting LEP and opportunities. Renfrewshire Council; Ruth Cooper (Chair) With Invest Team reps Chair of group Responsible for reporting LEP progress to the Community Planning Executive Group. Responsibility for Scottish Government NOLB/YPG funding and reporting including the funds allocated by LEP through co‐commissioning.Responsible for ensuring the Councils Economic Development functions’ contributions to LEPs strategic objectives. Yvonne Ward Darren Conway Jamie Gardyne Connection to education; ensuring two way of information sharing. Making it easier for young people to understand their learning and career choices at the earliest stage and provide long‐term, person‐centred support for young people who need this most. Developing and maintaining links with Community Justice, ensuring the various plans reflect the crossover issues and shared aims. Carolann Robertson Derek Murray Ensuring link between Community Learning & Development and Employability including adult and family learning; youth services, Community Capacity building. Ensuring an effective link between Housing Services and the wider housing, resettlement and homelessness agenda and Employability. One Ren Neil Fraser Ensuring an effective link between One Ren policies, services and assets and Employability. Skills Development Scotland; Suzie Scott Renfrewshire area delivery of the National Careers Information Advice and Guidance (CIAG) Work collaboratively with local strategic partners to ensure SDS’s national service provision translates to local context. West College Scotland. Allan Dick To represent West College Scotland and be the conduit between the LEP and WCS in its role in delivering education, skills and training to ensure students leave equipped to compete in the jobs market Page 35 of 36
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