3 - CAT Request - Land at Erskine Sports Centre
Renfrewshire Council · 28 August 2024
Back to Community Asset Transfer Sub-committee — 28 August 2024 and its agenda
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2 ___________________________________________________________________ To: Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board Community Asset Transfer Subcommittee On: 28 August 2024 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Community Asset Transfer Request – Land at Erskine Sports Centre ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The purpose of this report is to ask the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) Subcommittee to approve the long term lease of a small plot of land at Erskine Sports Centre to Erskine Arts under Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 (the Act) and subject to the terms and conditions set out at section 7 of this report. 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the CAT Subcommittee:- 2.1 Consider the Community Asset Transfer request, attached; 2.2 Approve the CAT request for a long-term lease of the asset at zero cost per annum subject to the terms and conditions set out at section 7 of this report; and 2.2 Authorise the Head of Economy and Development and the Head of Corporate Governance to conclude the sale of the asset in accordance with the Act and on such terms as required to protect the Council’s interest. 3. Background
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3 3.1 Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 provides the right for community bodies to request outright ownership, short or long term lease or other rights over any land or property owned or leased by the Council. 3.2 The Act requires local authorities to assess requests transparently against a specified list of criteria, and to agree the request unless there are reasonable grounds for refusal. 3.3 The CAT Officer Panel met to consider this request on the 29th of July 2024. In accordance with the revised Scheme of Delegation (September 2022), the Panel agreed to recommend the request for approval to the ILE CAT Sub- Committee. 4. The Asset – Land at Erskine Sports Centre 4.1 The asset being requested is a small plot of land lying approximately 30 meters south of the entrance to the Erskine Sports Centre on Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine and extending to some 465sqm or thereabouts. 4.2 The plot forms part of the public realm space in front of the sports centre and between the sports centre and the adjacent Salvation Army building to the south east and is currently overgrown with planted and self-seeded shrubs. 4.3 The asset does not form part of the Common Good Fund and is not included in the curtilage of the nearby Sports Centre. 4.4 The land has no residual value and is not identified for development in the Local Development Plan. 4.5 The plot is shown on the attached site plan, reference E3478A, hatched in red. 5. Community Transfer Body – Erskine Arts 5.1 Erskine Arts (EA) was formed in 2014. Initially set up as a Community Interest Company under the name of Erskine Music and Media Studio CIC, they changed their name and status in October 2021 to Erskine Arts and a Company Limited by Guarantee (SC482468). The company is also a registered charity (SC051042). 5.2 Previously based at Bargarran Community Centre, the company moved to their current premises on the first floor of Erskine Sports Centre in October 2021 under an agreement with OneRen. Approval has been granted for a partial renunciation of One Ren’s lease at the Sports Centre as well as a new full lease for the first floor with EA. 5.3 It should be noted that although a Company Limited by Guarantee and a registered Charity, Erskine Arts operates as a single tier structure, whereby, the Directors who are also the Company’s only members, comprise the Board. This is not compatible with the eligibility for Community Asset Transfer. 5.4 The Company is in the process of transitioning to a 2-tier structure, whereby Members, the majority of whom will be from the ‘Community’, will have control of the organisation and will elect from their number or co-opt, Directors to
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4 manage the company. This action will make them eligible for CAT under the legislation. 5.5 The current Board of Erskine Arts have indicated that they will take this action forward at their AGM in October 2024. 5.6 Section 7 of this report sets out conditions of the asset transfer, whereby, approval of the asset transfer request will be conditional on Erskine Arts updating their governing documents to operate as a two-tier organisation. 5.7 A short-term Licence to Occupy is being granted enabling the sound garden to be installed pending approval of the asset transfer request and compliance with the terms and conditions. 6. Community Asset Transfer Request 6.1 The asset transfer request is for a 25-year lease of the land hatched in red on the attached site plan E3478A. 6.2 Erskine Arts are seeking the lease of the land for zero pounds per annum (£0). 6.3 The group wish to make purposeful use of the land to create a community garden space that can benefit all users including a COVID memorial seating area and sound garden sculpture work. 6.4 They have secured £131,500 from external sources including £100,000 from Greenspace Scotland Remembering Together for 2 COVID memorial seating areas, one in Kilbarchan, and £21,500 from Creative Scotland / OneRen Future Paisley Place Partnership Fund for the sound garden sculpture work. 6.5 The funding secured requires to be spent in this financial year. They have commissioned Sculpture House and are working with local artists to create the installation and garden. 6.6 Planning consent will be required for the sound garden sculptures. 6.7 A breakdown of funding and letters of support for the project from Erskine Community Council, Bridgewater Housing Association, Cross Reach and the Salvation Army have been provided. 6.8 Benefits proposed include: • Increased footfall for local businesses by bringing more people to Erskine town centre; • Bring back into use an overgrown and disused piece of land; • Provide a safe space for reflection and a general meeting space for friends, families and individuals; and • Provide a focus for community activities, increase cohesion and support social and environmental wellbeing. 6.9 The group have provided a business plan for Erskine Arts and design concept for the garden. 6.10 The full CAT application, business plan and design concept are attached to this report.
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5 Validation, Publication, Representations 6.10 The CAT request was validated on the 24th of June 2024 and published on the Council Website. All close neighbours and interested parties were informed directly in accordance with the CAT legislation. 6.11 Publication was open for public representations until the 26th of July during which time no negative representations were received. 7 Proposed Terms and Conditions 7.1 Approval of the community asset transfer request is conditional on: (i) Erskine Arts becoming an eligible Community Transfer Body under Part 5 of the Act. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community Planning Our Renfrewshire is well – the CAT supports the wellness and resilience of our citizens and communities. 4. Legal (a) The CAT request and CTB do not comply with the requirements of Part 5 of The Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015; mitigating conditions have been applied. (b) A formal offer from the CTB must be received within 6 months of decision to approve. (c) Lease must be concluded within 6 months of a formal offer being submitted by the Club. 5. Property/Assets – As per this report. 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 no groups or individuals have any involvement currently at the property. 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.
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6 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – Not applicable. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – Not applicable. 12. Cosla Policy Position – Not applicable. _________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers (a) None. _________________________________________________________________ Author: Sandra Inrig – 0141 487 1447 or 07974 071238. Sandra.inrig@renfrewshire.gov.uk
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1 COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT (SCOTLAND) ACT 2015 ASSET TRANSFER REQUEST FORM IMPORTANT NOTES: This is a standard asset transfer request form which can be used to make a request to Renfrewshire Council. For assets owned by other relevant authorities, please refer to that authority’s own website. You do not need to use this form to make an asset transfer request but using a form will help you to make sure you include all the required information. You should read the asset transfer guidance provided by the Scottish Government before making a request. All forms and guidance documents are available to download from the Council’s Website You are strongly advised to discuss your proposals with the Council before making an asset transfer request. You can do this by contacting the CAT Single Point of Contact at communityassettransfer@renfrewshire.gov.uk. When completed, this form must be sent to: - The CAT Single Point of Contact Regeneration and Place Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1TT Or submitted by email to: communityassettransfer@renfrewshire.gov.uk
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2 This is an asset transfer request made under Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 in relation to property owned, leased or managed by Renfrewshire Council. Section 1: Information about the community transfer body (CTB) making the request 1.1 Name of the CTB making the asset transfer request Erskine Arts 1.2 CTB address. This should be the registered address (if you have one) or main correspondence address. Postal address: Erskine Arts, Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine, PA8 7AF 1.3 Contact details. Please provide the name and contact address to which correspondence in relation to this asset transfer request should be sent. Contact name: Ali Whitty Postal address: Erskine Arts, Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine Postcode: PA8 7AF Email: info@erskinearts.co.uk Telephone: 07920805575 ✓ We agree that correspondence in relation to this asset transfer request may be sent by email to the email address given above. (Please tick to indicate agreement). You can ask the relevant authority to stop sending correspondence by email, or change the email address, by telling them at any time, as long as 5 working days’ notice is given. Renfrewshire Council takes the privacy of your personal data very seriously. For more information see our Privacy Policy. (Please tick to indicate agreement). ✓ We agree that information provided in this asset transfer request, including contact details, may ONLY be forwarded to relevant officers within Renfrewshire Council for the purposes of assessment and/or in order to provide specialist support to further the asset transfer request as appropriate. Contact details will only be forwarded with your consent for an explicit purpose. (Please tick to indicate agreement).
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3 1.4 Please mark an “X” in the relevant box to confirm the type of CTB and its official number, if it has one. Company (with no fewer than 20 members) and its company number is SC482468 Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) (with no fewer than 20 members) and its charity number is We are also an unincorporated registered charity in Scotland SC051042 Community Benefit Society (BenCom), (with no fewer than 20 members) and its registered number is Unincorporated organisation (no number) Please attach a copy of your constitution, Articles of Association or registered rules. 1.5 Has the organisation been individually designated as a community transfer body by the Scottish Ministers? No ✓ Yes ☐ Please give the title and date of the designation order: 1.6 Does the organisation fall within a class of bodies which has been designated as community transfer bodies by the Scottish Ministers (i.e. those listed above at 1.4)? No ✓ Yes ☐ If yes what class of bodies does it fall within?
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4 Section 2: Information about the land and rights requested 2.1 Please identify the land / property to which this asset transfer request relates. You should provide a street address or grid reference and any name by which the land or building is known. If you have identified the land on the relevant authority’s register of land, please enter the details listed there. It may be helpful to provide one or more maps or drawings to show the boundaries of the land requested. If you are requesting part of a piece of land, you must attach a map and give a full description of the boundaries of the area to which your request relates. If you are requesting part of a building, please make clear what area you require. A drawing may be helpful. Details of Property: - Grid Reference NS 47086 70685 Disused land belonging to Renfrewshire Council between Erskine Sports Centre / Erskine Arts and Bridgewater Medical Centre as shown on site plan attached. Site is located approximately 30 meters south of Erskine Sports Centre Address: - Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine Postcode:- PA8 7AF Community Area:- Erskine and Inchinnan 2.2 Please provide the UPRN (Unique Property Reference Number), if known. If the property has a UPRN you will find it in the relevant authority’s register of land. UPRN:- 123121277
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5 Section 3: Type of request, payment and conditions 3.1 Please tick what type of request is being made: for ownership (under section 79(2)(a)) - go to section 3A ✓ for lease (under section 79(2)(b)(i)) – go to section 3B for other rights (section 79(2)(b)(ii)) - go to section 3C 3A – Request for ownership What price are you prepared to pay for the land requested: Proposed price: - £ Please attach a note setting out any other terms and conditions you wish to apply to the request. 3B – request for lease What is the length of lease you are requesting? 25 years (or recommended term proposed by Renfrewshire Council) How much rent are you prepared to pay? Please make clear whether this is per year or per month. Proposed rent: £ 0 per month / year (delete as appropriate) Please attach a note setting out any other terms and conditions you wish to be included in the lease, or to apply to the request in any other way.
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6 3C – request for other rights What are the rights you are requesting? N/A Do you propose to make any payment for these rights? Yes ☐ No ✓ If yes, how much are you prepared to pay? Please make clear what period this would cover, for example per week, per month, per day? Proposed payment: £ Please attach a note setting out any other terms and conditions you wish to apply to the request.
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7 Section 4: Community Proposal 4.1 Please set out the reasons for making the request and how the land or building will be used. This should explain the objectives of your project, why there is a need for it, any development or changes you plan to make to the land or building, and any activities that will take place there. 4.1.1 Objectives of the Project: To make purposeful use of land, currently overgrown and disused, for the use of a community garden space in partnership with Greenspace Scotland and Place Partnership funding. We will create a small community space that can benefit all users including a COVID memorial seating area and sound garden sculpture work. This will create a useful space for people to meet, gather and spend time whilst improving the area in line with public consultation and council place planning objectives. 4.1.2 Why there is a need for your Project Erskine has historically been calling out for additional development and infrastructure. Although this is a small development, we hope it will ignite ideas and investment from Renfrewshire Council to develop the whole campus area further. Erskine Arts has developed a vision plan which has been widely shared and supported by other community groups, members and local stakeholders who will benefit from this development. Funding is already in place and needs to be committed by September 2024. We have had overwhelming support from local residents regarding overall plans and we, as Erskine Arts, feel an obligation to make these visions a reality on behalf of our community. We have also had much support from potential volunteers to get involved. 4.1.3 Development / changes / modifications required Trees, hedges and old fencing are to be removed. Plot to be landscaped/levelled to allow maintenance-free surfaces to be laid. Installation of memorial bench seating. Installation of sculpture work. Installation of planters and planting areas as per our planting plan. Path to be laid for inclusive access to seating and planting areas. 4.1.4 Activities that will take place Creation of a new group ‘Gardening Gang’ who will meet regularly to help plan, develop and maintain the new space. It will be open to the local public to use. Small public gatherings and an open-air meeting area. 4.1.5 If the asset is to be used by the public it would be helpful if you could provide details of letting’s policy and opening times It will be an open outdoor space available to access 24/7 4.1.6 What provision will be provided for people with disabilities? Safe access to a modified path network around the campus of Erskine Arts 4.1.7 Any other relevant information? The sound garden sculptures themselves will not actually make any noise - more so the community development activities and work that will contribute after the point of installation.
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8 Nothing will need to be set into the ground - rather areas levelled and prepared for large rocks to be placed acting as anchor / fixing points. Advice has been provided regarding planning consents that may be required and this will be followed up following validation. Benefits of the proposal 4.2 Please set out the benefits that you consider will arise if the request is agreed to. This section should explain how the project will benefit your community, and others. Please refer to the guidance on how the relevant authority will consider the benefits of a request. Please explain how the project will benefit your community by detailing how your project will promote or improve: - 4.2.1 Economic development / income generation It will draw people to services that are otherwise hidden from sight including Erskine Sports Centre, Erskine Arts, small business and other community spaces such as Salvation Army. It will help to signpost our activities leading to increased activity and potential membership subscriptions. The publicity of this small ‘win’ across the local and Renfrewshire network will draw more attention to services in the immediate area and can be easily linked with community engagement activities that will add to a broader recognition of the activities on offer here. 4.2.2 Regeneration We expect to see much regeneration by clearing a disused area that has been overgrown for years and has been used in the past to dump rubbish into a well-thought-out area for planting, attracting small wildlife and birdlife. With careful consideration given to the layout of plants and trees, we expect this area to flourish supporting growth in natural habitat. 4.2.3 Public Health The COVID seating area will provide a safe space for reflection and will also become a general meeting space for friends, families and individuals. The sound garden sculptures will provide a sensory element that can be adapted and changed over the seasons in partnership with local groups, youth activities and school engagement. This will add to the mental health and well-being for those involved but also for those who just want to benefit from the new surroundings. It will also make the space safer for people moving around and feel more confident about using the space. 4.2.4 Social / Wellbeing We hope that this new space will encourage more people to visit, meet and organise social gatherings that will bring our community together and support positive wellbeing in our local area. We aim to grow some much-needed civic pride which has been lacking in Erskine. The developed space could also be used for Erskine Arts outdoor activity supporting ad-hoc summer nights music activity and be a space where we can develop new environmental projects in partnership with other organisations.
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9 4.2.5 Environmental / Wellbeing / Environmental Benefits With the creation of a new group ‘Gardening Gang’ we will be exploring ways in which we can develop environmental programming supporting the maintenance and growth of the natural habitat. This will help to support new wildlife ecosystems encouraging small insects, bees and birdlife. We hope that this will have a positive impact on our local environment and encourage good general public wellbeing seeing a positive change in our local area. 4.2.6 Does your project contribute to the reduction in inequalities? Please detail how. Yes, Erskine Arts is passionate and committed to reducing inequalities in our community. We are a safe place for all and accommodate and support everyone where we can within our given capacity. We support and run many initiatives to tackle issues such as food poverty, gender inequality, good health and well-being, quality education, fair work and economic development. Much of our programme is developed to support ASN people young and old. 4.2.7 Any other relevant information Project has been developed in collaboration with Renfrewshire Council Regeneration and Place team and will contribute to consultation on wider regeneration proposals for the area. Restrictions on use of the land 4.3 If there are any restrictions on the use or development of the land, please explain how your project will comply with these. Restrictions might include, amongst others, environmental designations such as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI), heritage designations such as listed building status, controls on contaminated land or planning restrictions. There are no restrictions attached to the land identified. Negative consequences 4.4 Please identify any potential risks which may occur if your request is agreed to? How would you propose to minimise these? You should consider any potential negative consequences for the local economy, environment, or any group of people and explain how you could reduce these. Through consultation of over 75 members of the public who utilise this campus area (gym users / Erskine Arts / Salvation Army / visiting people & online social media), we have had zero negative responses to feedback. There will be no invasive works or radical changes to the landscape and there should be no risks that might occur. All insurance will be in place to conduct the work through either professional companies and work with volunteers will be closely monitored with safety and precautionary measures put in place including risk assessment to carry out activities. It is anticipated that the project will increase footfall in the area in front of the Sports Centre. As the project will be open to the public 24 hours, there is the potential for vandalism,
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10 antisocial behaviour, litter, increased car traffic and the need for additional parking. We expect increased footfall to be moderate and do not expect the resulting development to draw large crowds. This will be monitored and with CCTV currently in place at Erskine Sports Centre, there is already a deterrent to minimise any antisocial behaviour. We currently manage and support a legal spray wall within the same campus and in over a year we have not once identified any antisocial behaviour which you may expect might to come from a project like that. We work with our community to develop a scene of ownership and respect and to take responsibility for our local surroundings. Erskine Arts and community volunteers will be responsible for litter picking regularly and will seek to install new bins where required. The site also has overflow parking areas which are rarely utilised. One thing that we will campaign for will be the renewal of parking space lines, disabled parking space markings and new ‘no parking’ areas to ensure path networks are not blocked off. Capacity to deliver 4.5 Please show how your organisation will be able to manage the project and achieve your objectives. This could include the skills and experience of members of the organisation, any track record of previous projects, whether you intend to use professional advisers, etc. Have you / your organisation managed projects or owned / leased land previously? Please provide details of: - 4.5.1 Skills and experience of members of the organisation Erskine Arts has 3 full-time members of staff. Managing Director, Community Development Officer and Music Teacher. Whilst these areas of expertise relate to our work within the building we have a very strong track record of reaching the community and mobilising volunteers to help assist with many other aspects of our development. This includes general maintenance and improvements to the interior and in the past we have focused lots of attention on the upkeep of the ground and exterior relating to the building. We have over the years made the area more accessible by removing overgrown trees and hedges which have been left to grow without any maintenance from Renfrewshire Council. Paths leading to the facility are now clear and safe leading to higher traffic and people utilising the campus and facilities within. This work can be seen here: https://erskinearts.co.uk/greenspace.html As our membership is far-reaching, we have nurtured some very important relationships with council members, community groups as well as local professionals who have seen our commitment to the community and are ready and willing to give of their time for free or at extremely reduced charitable rates. These include Kenmore Tree Surgeons, Cairns Tree Surgeons, Erskine Community Garden, Nutech Pressure Cleaning, WRC Recycling and Artscape Gardens. The intended plans are funded through Greenspace Scotland, Future Paisley Place Partnership and Engage Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund. Work has already taken place to
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11 consult and commission artists and fabricators for installation work. This is being done through Sculpture House Scotland. 4.5.2 Do you intend to use professional advisors? We will seek professional advice on matters requiring extra attention and will utilise experience from council officials on planning, development, maintenance and installation work. We have already worked professionally with Sculpture House Scotland, Cairns Tree Surgeons, Kenmore Tree Care, Art Scape Gardens, Renfrewshire Council and have had dealings professionally with other advisors about our lease agreement at Erskine Sports Centre including QS, Architects, Interior Designers etc. We have also worked with community housing associations including Bridgewater Housing. 4.5.3 Do you currently lease/manage a property from Renfrewshire Council? If yes, please provide details We are currently negotiating a lease for the top floor of Erskine Sports Centre which has been approved by Renfrewshire Council board and will be progressing a similar CAT to obtain permanence in the space to develop an inclusive arts centre and community facility in Erskine. From 2008 to 2021 Erskine Arts (formally Erskine Music & Media Studio) were responsible keyholders and active members of Bargarran Halls Management Facility. We were successful in helping to maintain and improve the building as well as guiding it through many improvements particularly during COVID to comply with regulations at that time. Erskine Arts made a huge contribution to modernising the ‘Youth Wing’ which, to this very day, is still a very modern and valued space which is continued to be used by the community. During this time we were positive and supportive neighbours to various groups and local businesses in the area. Since our relocation to Erskine Sports Centre in 2021, we have taken those values and have built strong relations with One Ren sports staff who continue to operate on the ground floor. We have taken on many responsibilities such as maintenance, cosmetic improvements, cleaning and management of the top floor where we have been allowed to flourish and expand our offer to the community despite mitigating circumstances working within the very limited opening hours of the building, shared communal access and not being able to come and go as we please. 4.5.4 Please detail how you plan to maintain the asset? We have already assembled ‘Gardening Gang’ a group of volunteers, guided by the support of Erskine Arts and local professionals, who will meet fortnightly to maintain the newly developed space. This will include planting, fixing, weeding, hedge cutting and any other general maintenance activities. We have funding to purchase the required tools and equipment to carry out these tasks and will be guided by professional mentors to ensure safe handling and care is taken whilst carrying out basic duties. This will be managed and supported by Erskine Arts who will seek future funding to continue the growth, keeping maintenance sustainable. This would be akin to the Team Up To Clean Up initiative which has been a very positive and successful campaign across the whole of Renfrewshire. 4.5.5. Any other relevant information? N/A
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12 Section 5: Level and nature of support 5.1 Please provide details of the level and nature of support for the request, from your community and, if relevant, from others. This could include information on the proportion of your community who are involved with the request, how you have engaged with your community beyond the members of your organisation and what their response has been. You should also show how you have engaged with any other communities that may be affected by your proposals. 5.1.1 How many people are members of your organisation? Are they in agreement with this application? We have around 200 users who access our programmes directly. Although they are not ‘members’ according to our governing rules, they are our community members who access facilities provided directly by Erskine Arts either through paid subscriptions or by free access to activities. They have been consulted and are all in agreement with this application. 5.1.2 How many people are members of your community as defined in your constitution / governing rules? Are they in agreement with this application? Membership according to our constitution is made up of Trustees/Directors. We have 8 appointed Trustees and two non-elected youth representatives who meet every 2 months to conduct board meetings. They are all in agreement with this application. 5.1.3 Have you consulted with other local stakeholder groups and agencies? Please provide evidence. We have consulted with local people generally through social media platforms. Our online consultation post on Facebook swiftly became one of our most successful social outreach engagements in which we can provide stats via Facebook report. It shows exceptionally high engagement for an organisation of our size within such a small community. This report will show that all engagement is positive and all are in agreement with this application. We have also consulted Erskine Salvation Army who are also in agreement with this application as the proposals will have a close connection with their activities. They have expressed that it will make facilities more visible and will help to unite organisations in the campus area. They have also expressed that it will make the area safer and a better place for people to gather/congregate. Other groups that we have consulted are Erskine Community Garden, Erskine Rotary Club, Erskine Community Council, Erskine Church of the Nazarene, Erskine Waterfront Runners Group, Morrisons and other local companies in the area all of whom support the application and will provide letters of support. 5.1.4 Have you contacted local staff? If yes, please provide details of who Throughout the development of this project and application, we have been in contact with a wide range of organisations and individuals, including One Ren facility staff members including the local general manager John Bryceland Morrisons Community Champion, Elspeth Roxburgh Local businesses - Jolene's Swift Flowers, GM Landscaping, Tom Whylie Jewellers
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13 Local politicians and elected members - Leader of Renfrewshire Council - Iain Nicolson; Local Councillor and Board member, Michelle Campbell; MSP Natalie Don Renfrewshire Council Regeneration Team, Estates; and Community Asset Transfer 5.1.5 Have you contacted any other communities that may be affected? N/A 5.1.6 Any other relevant information Erskine Arts is currently established as a single tier SCIO meaning that we do not have Members in addition to our Trustees/Board of Directors. We are committed to amend the structure of Erskine Arts to evolve as a 2-tier SCIO and are in discussions with OSCR to make the necessary changes. This will allow our wider community to become official members of the organisation and to have full voting rights and overall control of the organisation. As well as users, we will seek to recruit members from our geographical community as well as those that have a common interest in the development of the arts and culture in the local area. These people already exist in waiting and have an invested interest in the maintenance and management of Erskine Arts and its wider activities. Not only do they live in the area but they use our facilities as well. Our last AGM in Oct 2023 had over 90 people in attendance from all aspects of our community. This included local people, young people, older adults, parents, partner organisations, community groups, sponsors and advocates. Section 6: Funding 6.1 Please outline how you propose to fund the price or rent you are prepared to pay for the land, and your proposed use of the land. You should show your calculations of the costs associated with the transfer of the land or building and your future use of it, including any redevelopment, ongoing maintenance and the costs of your activities. All proposed income and investment should be identified, including volunteering and donations. If you intend to apply for grants or loans you should demonstrate that your proposals are eligible for the relevant scheme, according to the guidance available for applicants. 6.1.1 Please show your calculations of the costs associated with the transfer of the land or buildings and your future use of it, including any redevelopment, ongoing maintenance and the costs of your activities. All proposed income and investment should be identified, including volunteering and donations. Please see the budget break down and financial projections attached. 6.1.2 Please also supply details of what funding you have received so far and any conditions attached. Greenspace Scotland ‘Remembering Together’ - £100k. The purpose of this fund is to create 2x COVID memorial seating installations in Erskine and Kilbarchan. Specifically to the
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14 Erskine site, it equates to £30k of Management, Artist Fees, Construction & Installation. These works are being carried out by Sculpture House Scotland. Creative Scotland ‘Future Paisley Place Partnership’ - £21.5k. This fund is to support the creation of sound garden sculpture installations specifically in Erskine. We have combined this with the Greenspace Scotland project to be situated on the same land identified to create a public civic space where anyone can enjoy the benefits. This will make the place more attractive, help to increase footfall on the campus and provide an outdoor space for the public. Engage Renfrewshire - Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund ‘Gardening Gang’ - £10k. This fund is primarily to set up and manage a new group of volunteers who are dedicated and passionate about gardening and the general upkeep of the new site. The fund budgets for landscaping works, tree cutting, ground materials, equipment and planting. 6.1.3 Details of funding you have applied for but are still waiting on a decision/response N/A 6.1.4 Details of other funding i.e. voluntary donations, borrowing etc N/A 6.1.5 Any other relevant information N/A
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15 Section 7: Other Supporting Documentation To enable the Council to fully consider your application, the following supporting documentation must be submitted as part of your application:- ● A copy of your organisation’s Constitution, Articles or Association or other governing rules as appropriate; ● A detailed business case (that is proportionate to the nature of the asset transfer request); ● A financial projection of income and expenditure for at least three full financial years following the date of this request; ● A copy of your organisation’s most recent audited accounts, where available (or a financial projection covering the current financial year where the applicant has been operating for less than one year); ● Annual reports (where these are available). Applicants are advised to refer to the Scottish Government Community Asset Transfer Guidance for Community Transfer Bodies for further details of what information should be included in these supporting documents. https://www.gov.scot/publications/asset-transfer- under-community-empowerment-scotland-act-2015-guidance-community-9781786527509/
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16 Declaration and Signature Two office-bearers (board members, charity trustees or committee members) of the community transfer body must sign the form. They must provide their full names and home addresses for the purposes of prevention and detection of fraud. This form and supporting documents will be made available online for any interested person to read and comment on. Personal information will be redacted before the form is made available. We, the undersigned on behalf of the community transfer body as noted at section 1, make an asset transfer request as specified in this form. We declare that the information provided in this form and any accompanying documents is accurate to the best of our knowledge. “I understand that the details provided will be used by Renfrewshire Council for the purpose of assessing the asset transfer request and may be shared with Council Officers and Elected Members for the purposes of providing support in making the application or other purposes as appropriate. Further information on how the Council looks after personal information can be found here : https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/2201/Privacy-policy 1. Name Ali Whitty Address Erskine Arts, Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine, PA87AF Date 28th May 2024 Position Managing Director Signature 2. Name Jason Watson Address Erskine Arts, Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine, PA87AF Date 28th May 2024 Position Community Development Manager Signature
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17 Checklist of accompanying documents To check that nothing is missed, please list any documents which you are submitting to accompany this form. Section 1 – you must attach your organisation’s constitution, articles of association or registered rules Section 2 – any maps, drawings or description of the land requested Section 3 – note of any terms and conditions that are to apply to the request Section 4 – about your proposals, their benefits, any restrictions on the land or potential negative consequences, and your organisation’s capacity to deliver. Section 5 – evidence of community support Section 6 – funding Section 7 – Supporting Documentation
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A SOUND GARDEN FOR ERSKINE LAURA ALDRIDGE + ERSKINE ARTS + SCULPTURE HOUSE
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The Sound Garden for Erskine has wellbeing and physical sensory experiences at its core. My ideas have developed through a mixture of community engagement in the form of practical workshops with the Erskine Arts Community and informal conversations with Arts Centre Participants. Visits to The Erskine Community Garden have been informative. Below are some key features for the Sound Garden that have emerged through public engagement: - simple seating for visitors. - Planting flowers that attract wildlife to hear the sound of bees buzzing - Enhancing the sensory experience with heavily scented plants - honeysuckle and jasmine, lavender, and rosemary - Areas with crunchy gravel and stones so the noise is simply made by your feet - Thinking about sight lines from the building - so there is scope to connect the inside with the outside. - Anchor points to accommodate live events and future activities - such as bird feeders, festoon lights, homemade wind chimes.
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THE ERSKINE KEYS key noun [C] (LOCK) - a piece of metal that has been cut into a special shape and is used for opening or closing a lock key noun [C] (MUSICAL NOTES) a set of musical notes based on one particular note Working with nature and the surrounding environment the garden will house a series fo Sculptural works titled ‘THE ERSKINE KEYS’ - Large Scottish rocks will act as bases for tall upright multipurpose sculptural posts - each post will be unique in design but have a number of anchor points for use by the local community. Different items to be made in the future workshops like wind socks, chimes, bells - can all be connected and supported by the sculptures. For example, festoon lights could be erected for a one off concert in the garden, a gardening group could be established that might make birdfeeders.
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- The Keys circular tops will be customised into Aeolian harps (wind harp) - a musical instrument that is played by the wind. - Each Sculpture will have a different figuration to vary the sounds between them. This can be developed with participants at Erskine Arts. - The Sculptures will be between 250 - 300cm tall, made from Powder Coated Stainless Steel and anchored by 4 tonne rocks (Approximate weight will be 4.5 tonne) REMEMBERING TOGETHER
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Within the sound garden will sit one of Renfrewshires 3 Covid Memorials. Each memorial has been developed in response to a series of public consultations and workshops. The creative brief asked that we: ‘create sites for our Renfrewshire Community that are places of rest and reflection, where new things can grow, where stories can be told, and places of permanence and future history’ Sharing the visual Language of The Erskine Keys (colourful powder coated stainless steel, scottish rocks and boulders) the memorial will take the form of a playfully shaped bench that creates space for both quiet contemplation and joyful remembrance. Planting of a series of ornamental tress and spring flowering bulbs/plants will mark events of the past but also signify strength and perseverance.
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- Working with Renfrewshire pipe bending specialists Morrison and Macdonald, the 9 meter long bench will be formed using 3.8 powder coated stainless steel tube to ensure comfort, drainage and longevity. Each rock weighs between 3-5 tonnes. The Bench itself will weigh approximately 800kg - A series of Scottish rocks will support the structure and provide much needed back rest, and armrests will be incorporated for accessibility. - In addition there will be a series of welded anchor points to be bolted to a concreted base - this will be covered with planting and gravel)
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PLANTING A planting scheme celebrating resilience and wellbeing, designed around sensory elements and providing interest all year. - Purple and gold are the central colours, with bright and contrasting colours for energy. - Repeated patterns and colours to create harmony. - Tactile elements and a wide variety of scented plants supporting mindfulness and wellbeing. - Culinary herbs which can be used by local people or the kitchens. - 'Friends of winter' Bamboo, Prunus, Cornus/Dogwood, Viburnum and Golden willow for winter cheer. - Hardy perennials, self seeding biennials and reliable bulbs for low maintenance and climate adaptation. Key: sc - scented se - sensory e - edible m - medicinal f - free! Or potentially freely available
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The Garden will be supported by The Erskine Ars Gardening Gang. Post planting sessions will be organised to ensure the planting succeeds and thrives.
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BENCH AREA CENTRAL AREA TOP LEFT BOTTOM RIGHT Rm - Rosemary Hm - Hamamelis mollis In - Inula Elecampane Rca - Rosa Carina Pr - Prunus Mume Stg - Stipa Gigantea Rm - Rosemary Mh -Mahonia Gi - Ginkgo Biloba Gw - Golden Willow Vb - Verbena Fg - Foxglove Ba- Bamboo Gr - Golden Rod Psc - Persicaria Rm - Rosemary Bi- Silver Birch Hh- Holly Hock Pg - Pheasant Grass Gd - Golden Dogwood Ps - Pheasant Grass T - Teasel Kn - Kniphofia sp. varied Se - Sesleria Autumnalis C - Campanula F - Fennel Sed - Sedum Sc- Sweet Cicely Gd - Golden Dogwood Al - Allium - purple sensation Gd - Golden Dogwood Alc - Alchemilla Mollis Eg - Erigeron mexican daisy Rca - Rosa Carina In - Inula Elecampane N - Snow White Narcissus Alc - Alchemilla N - Narcissus Ac - Achillea Al - Allium Al - Allium St - Stachys byzantina N - Narcissus Eg - Erigeron mexican daisy Eri - Eryngium Maritimum Fg - Foxglove St - Stachys Ly - Lychnis coronaria Psc - Persicaria Lv - Lavender Se - Sesleria Autumalis Tu - Tulip Rc - Rosa Centifolia
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ERSKINE ARTS Kilpatrick Drive Erskine PA8 7AF CATCommunity Asset Transfer – Supporting Budgets Erskine Arts is seeking to develop an area of land directly adjacent to our facility based in Erskine Sports Center. Our plans are for a public Sound Garden and Covid Memorial seating area. With funding already secured, we are working with Creative Scotland (Place Partnership - £21.5k), Greenspace Scotland (Remembering Together - £30k) and Engage Renfrewshire (Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund - £10k) to create a safe, welcoming and attractive space for all to enjoy supporting additional plans being brought forward by Renfrewshire Council. 'Remembering Together' is led by artist Philippa Tomlin and commissioned installations have been appointed to Sculpture House Scotland. The area for development is covered red in the plan below and the pages that follow set out income and expenditure for the project over Commented [SI1]: Don’t think you need to put in values as will be below Commented [SI2]: Period?
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BUDGETS Not traditional budget presentation and not clear to see overall costs and revenue. This is shewn as expenditure only for each funding stream as opposed to for the project as a whole. You will also need to show phasing of income and expenditure and projections for ongoing revenue costs. Represent in spreadsheet form showing total income streams and total expenditure for each of the following financial years2023/24, 2024/25 & 2025/26. Can add narative above to intimate this is a capital project with the majority (or all as appropriate) expenditure in the first year. Separate out budgets from letters of support Engage Renfrewshire Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund (£10000) ITEM CONTRACTOR DETAIL / ITEM UNIT PRICE QTY / Days / Hours COST Landscaping Materials & Contractor Costs Artscape Gardens Labour Costs (10 days) £280.00 10 £2,800.00 Artscape Gardens Plant Hire (6 days) £200.00 6 £1,200.00 Aggragate (per ton) £40.00 20 £800.00 Underlay @ 1.6k sqft £130.00 3 £390.00 Plants / Trees / Bulbs (Various) £550.00 1 £550.00 Wooden Planters (Materials) £120.00 6 £720.00 Garden Equipment, Tools & Machinery Sthil Leaf Blower £305.00 1 £305.00 Sthil Hedge Trimmer £276.00 1 £276.00 Sthil Grass Strimmer £259.00 1 £259.00 Wheel Barrows 20ltr £160.00 0 £0.00 Misc Gloves / Hand Tools £25.00 10 £250.00 Tree Surgeon Costs Cairns Tree Surgeons 2 Days @ £350 £350.00 2 £700.00 Kenmore Tree Surgeons 1 Day @ £350 £350.00 1 £350.00 Management & Administration Erskine Arts 50 hours @ £20 per hour (1-2 hours per week) £20.00 50 £1,000.00 Volunteer Expenses Erskine Arts Misc Transport / Food / Tea Coffee @ £10 for 20 weeks £20.00 20 £400.00
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Greenspace Scotland 'Remembering Together' £100k RENFREWSHIRE PHASE 2 Total Projected Spend £100,000.00 Project Management Team TOTALS Partner project monitoring and evaluation fee £3,000.00 ERSKINE ARTS Creative Producer £12,812.00 35 days @£366 Project Manager £9,000.00 30 days @£300 £24,812.00 Memorial Commision Design, build, materials installation £53,000.00 £53,000.00 Community Engagement and Events Artists £6,720.00 10x days x2 people Story capture (audio and accessible £3,000.00 total fee for story capture Gardener budget (volunteers) £2,000.00 more to be raised tbc Additional Management £400.00 BSL interpreter £3,000.00 Community group travel £400.00 Launch Events budget £2,400.00 £17,920.00 Marketing and Comms Marketing / Social / Sizzle £2,580.00 ERSKINE ARTS £2,580.00
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Contingency £1,688.00 £1,688.00 Future Paisley - Place Partnership 'Soundgarden' £21500 ITEM CONTRACTOR DETAIL ITEM COST Milestone 1 Sculpture House On Signing of this contract and confirmation of the initial brief and setting work parameters Tuesday 1st August 2023 £3,500.00 Milestone 2 Sculpture House Visual Progress Report Wednesday 1st November 2023 £3,000.00 Milestone 3 Sculpture House Visual Progress Report Friday 1 st March 2024 £3,500.00 Milestone 4 Sculpture House Final Visual Report, Participant records and Sound Sculpture Garden feedback Report (30th June 2024) £2,000.00 Materials Sculpture House The materials budget will be claimable either by direct purchase payment by Erskine Arts on behalf of the artists or by the artists claiming funds with receipts of purchase. In either case, all actual receipts for the £3500 should be kept and the costs recorded on the Project Expenditure Record. £8,500.00 Expenses Sculpture House Where the Producer requires the Artist In Residence to attend meetings or deliver presentations/workshops that require travel, meals and/or accommodation other than listed above the Producer shall:- i) Reimburse reasonable expenses incurred by the Artist. Such reimbursement shall be subject to prior agreement with Erskine Arts of journeys and purchases. £1,000.00
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Engage Renfrewshire Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund This £10k fund has been successfully awarded to Erskine Arts to support the creation of a new volunteer group called ‘Gardening Gang’. Not only does this fund include the purchase of essential equipment to help maintain the development and ongoing maintenance, but it also supports costs for landscaping and materials as part of a wider funding plan in conjunction with Greenspace Scotland and Creative Scotland. The Gardening Gang will meet every 2 weeks to help with designing, planting and general maintenance of the garden space. This will be an inclusive group supporting positive well-being for those who are involved. Creative Scotland / One Ren Future Paisley Place Partnership Fund This £21.5k fund has been awarded through the Future Paisley Place Partnership. We are currently working with Katie Nicoll (One Ren) to deliver sculptural installations and create a sound garden. Erskine Arts has appointed Sculpture House Scotland as the lead Artist In Residence for this project and the land in question was identified as an ideal spot after much consultation with community groups and members of Erskine Arts. Greenspace Scotland ‘Remembering Together’ Covid Memorial Commission This £100k commission by Greenspace Scotland is being managed by Erskine Arts in partnership with local artist Phillipa Thomlin. This commission was initially intended to deliver 3 COVID memorial benches in Paisley, Kilbarchan and Erskine however due to rising manufacturing costs, this will now only be 2 sites (Erskine & Kilbarchan). The memorial benches will be designed as a space for people to meet and reflect/share stories on those lost during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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LETTERS OF SUPPORT To whom it may concern. This letter comes as support for Erskine Arts, Outdoor Campus and Memorial Garden. Having lived and worked in Erskine as a Community Art and Outreach Worker since the year 2000, I see this as a fantastic opportunity to provide the community with a communal space and focal point in our town centre. Our town lacks a central location for social and community gatherings, with neither a town square nor a large cultivated, curated, developed green parkland space that serves our people. It's great to see this venture as a turn in our history, finally reaping the benefits of funding and seeing a focus on our often-overlooked corner of Renfrewshire. Over the past decade, many have tried to bring residents together to plan a community garden/ central parkland in the centre of all Erskine areas, but to no avail. Erskine Arts proposal not only fulfils that which others have sought, but has highlighted an overgrown, neglected piece of shrub area that can be developed into something spectacular for the benefit of all. Erskine Arts has worked diligently over the past number of years to establish itself not only as an organisation with a passion for the Arts but as an integral part of social opportunities and community connections in Erskine, Inchinnan and Bishopton. They are changing the lives of many individuals growing the community, and connecting the lonely. Their proposal would be yet another stepping stone in continuing the fantastic work they have begun. With the opportunity for further community involvement in gardening activities as well as establishing the beneficial social and emotional role the Arts play post-COVID, through the COVID Memorial and the Sound Garden, there are only positives to the proposal. The sense of community derived from the outreach involved in creating these two important projects is supported, continued and strengthened in the fulfilment of the proposal. The community are already excited, engaged and invested in the space and there is a sense of anticipation and excitement for the work going forward. As a community Art Worker, I can't promote their plans enough, it's time to give back to our community to bring everyone closer and give individuals a sense of pride in Erskine. Amanda McCall Community Art Worker .
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Business Plan October 2023 Executive Summary 1. About Erskine Arts 1.1 Origins and growth 1.2 Governance 1.3 Team / management 2. Current activity 2.1 Audience and users 3. Forward plan 3.1 Context - evidencing the need 3.2 Market appraisal 4. Future programme / activity 4.1 Public programme 4.2 Commercial activity 4.3 Future development 4.4 Marketing 5. Resources 5.1 Equipment 5.2 Building 5.3 People 6. Financials 6.1 Income generation 6.2 Expenditure 6.3 Forecast Budgets 6.4 Reserves policy 6.5 Pricing 7. Monitoring and evaluation 8. Risk assessment Executive Summary Erskine Arts Charity will replace the existing organisation Erskine Music & Media Studio CIC. Both identities are referred to in this plan. The work undertaken at present and in future is undertaken by Erskine Arts.
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1 Erskine Arts proposes to develop their track-record and reputation for youth and older adult engagement in creative classes, workshops, events working with local partners to benefit the people of Erskine and beyond in Renfrewshire. By accessing tenancy within the local sports centre, the charity hopes to work in partnership with the local council to help bring a stronger sense of community and identity to its assets. Whilst the proposal is not a brand new concept for an arts centre, there is currently no other facility like this kind proposed in Renfrewshire and the surrounding area. The concept is to merge the artist-led venue space, cultural programming with creative activity and partner organisations to assist with post-Covid social and economic recovery. This project would enable income generation via lets as well as external business activities (PA Hires / Media Hires) to sustain the charity while accommodating local creative and social groups - all the while offering training, stepping stones and life opportunities for young people and adults, supporting the work of other council services in the area. A five year financial picture has been developed alongside a future programme of activity in support of Erskine Arts’ vision for the Centre, for the local population and its communities. 1. About Erskine Arts 1.1 Origins and growth Erskine Arts is a cultural charity building upon the 12 year legacy of Erskine Music & Media Studio CIC. From a disused library, EMMS developed a vibrant community space providing a safe environment for young people with creative and cultural pathways into further education, employment and other positive destinations. From humble beginnings back in 2009 the project evolved from a 3 hour per week voluntary opportunity for local artists to practise and rehearse and a small rehearsal space for young people in the local area. From this activity, EMMS then grew into a successful social enterprise delivering a vast programme for Erskine and the wider community of Renfrewshire. The project exploded into a multi faceted organisation Erskine Arts, supporting hundreds of young people and community groups whilst offering affordable professional services in live events, film and media. Past years have seen proposals for joint partnership: first with Erskine Park Group for a purpose-built arts facility which was stunted due to issues surrounding land ownership. In 2016 there was a published charrette commission by Renfrewshire Council to identify the possible developments for Erskine. The organisation was at the heart of this consultation and was identified as the lead organisation for future development in the area. Erskine Sports Centre was identified as a potential venue for a new cultural arts facility and after years of discussions with Renfrewshire Leisure, they embraced the potential change of management and use of the building. With an established support network from local authority, leisure services, local partnerships, clients and, of course, the membership, they have become a valuable fixture of the Renfrewshire cultural network. Erskine Arts’ aim is to deliver on that public consultation for increased cultural activity and support for young people and adults, creating a sense of place and civic pride for Erskine and surrounding areas. Having built a strong client base for live event and media services over the past 6 years, Erskine Arts have established an income source to help sustain growth and development. The aim is to build upon previous success by becoming more resilient, improving the quality of services and realising an elevated cultural ambition for Erskine and Renfrewshire. Throughout its growth over a 14-year period and at the very early stages it has always been an aspiration for young people to lead a cultural facility in the heart of Erskine. In its infancy, there has proven to be strong engagement working with young people to help realise an ambitious vision. The disused library space in Bargarran has served the organisation well and they, in collaboration and partnership with Youth Services, have already invested financially to modernise what was once a tired asset. Young people have been the driving force behind Erskine Music Festival,
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2 community events, public consultation and engagement as well as shaping the Erskine Arts programme tailored to needs they themselves have expressed. Through the success of their achievements, Bargarran Youth Learning Centre now lacks the capacity to meet their ambitions for the future. Erskine Arts exists, now and in the future, to provide learning, creative nurturing and often life-changing experiences for these young people, adults and for the wider community that supports them toward a better future. The organisation was recognised nationally for its excellence in enterprise and work with young people, receiving national recognition earning an invitation to meet the First Minister of Scotland at Bute House. Erskine Arts has been winning awards for several years including Youth Link Scotland Awards - Triple Award winners 2013 and Winner 2014 and Young Scot Daily Mail - Enterprise Award 2017 and 2018. 1.2 Governance As a charity registered in Scotland, Erskine Arts is supported by professional staff who have support and guidance from a senior board of directors. Michelle Campbell - CHAIRPERSON ● Michelle is a qualified RMN and is passionate in local communities being creative and supportive of enhancing the outcomes for young people. ● Local elected councillor and within this remit is the Young Person's Champion. Michelle has always had a solid role working with young people. ● She was a RAFVR(T) officer within the Air Cadets and was awarded the Queens Jubilee Medal as recognition of this work. ● As a Mental Health Nurse, Michelle is passionate that local communities offer a supportive and creative environment to allow young People to flourish in their confidence and personal skills. ● Inter-community, intergenerational work is a top priority for Erskine Arts and, as chairperson, Michelle is passionate about promotion of equality and highlighting and addressing societal inequalities that require to be challenged in our communities and promote a harmonious, respectful community. Derek Doyle - VICE CHAIRPERSON ● Experienced educational professional with over 25 years in Further Education across the performing arts, music sector, both as a full-time and visiting lecturer. ● Extensive experience in a number of contract roles with the Scottish Qualifications Authority as a developer, external verifier, and validation panel member and chair, across levels SCQF 5-8. ● Over twenty years’ experience across a range of management roles, predominantly in the Further Education sector but also in music retail and, more recently, in the area of business development for community radio. ● Committee member of the Scotland and Northern Ireland Region of the Musicians’ Union. ● Accredited PRINCE2 2017 Practitioner, and with full PVG certification (Disclosure Scotland). Sian Perfitt - Secretary ● Sian is a local CBT counsellor for Safe Space Counseling in Erskine. ● After supporting our young people directly after COVID lockdown, Sian agreed to become a trustee of Erskine Arts. ● Sian also has a business degree and has a background in recruitment and admin. Ali Whitty - Trustee ● 8 years in the professional music industry signed to V2 Records and Universal Publishing. ● 12 years self-employed ‘Design Leaf’ media company creating websites, bespoke album artwork, photography, media clips & social media content. ● 12 Years developing Erskine Arts from a voluntary project to an award winning Community Interest Company employing 4 members of staff. ● Youth Link Scotland triple award winners in 2015 ● Young Scot Enterprise Award winners 2017 ● Ali is committed to developing the charity nationally and within the local community. ● Has established numerous partnerships through his music career and his work within the third sector. Linda Woods - TRUSTEE ● Administration for Scottish Government working under the Finance Secretary
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3 ● Committed to high level of policy and procedures Garry Donnegan - TRUSTEE ● Garry is a past beneficiary of Erskine Arts in his younger years and is now on his second spell as a trustee. ● Garry has a strong background in third sector funding and has worked for Families First, Impact Arts and currently works for the CORRA Foundation. Jacquie Smith - TRUSTEE ● Director of Education and Strategic Development at St Margaret Of Scotland Hospice ● Strategic leadership experience ● Educational and policy development Mick Friel - TRUSTEE ● Mick started coming to Erskine Arts in 2022 after our introduction of music lessons and has been a strong local public ambassador for the charity. ● He has a background in construction and has strong network connections locally. ● Now retired, Mick has been helping to support the staff team generally throughout the week and has been assisting with general maintenance and upgrades to the facility. The board of directors meet every 2 months to support the project at a higher strategic level assisting with ● Strategic Development & Planning ● Finance ● Sustainability & Succession Planning ● Policies & Procedures ● Supervise on project delivery and reporting There will be a conscious effort to recruit additional Trustees Members to enhance the skill set of the Board as well as representation from the young people involved in our programme who show significant interest . Key additions to our Board would include members who have a background in finance, planning and consultation. 1.3 Team / Management Erskine Arts is currently run by 3 full time members of staff who work with an average of 150 young people and adults per week. We also train volunteers who help support the weekly operations of the charity. - Managing Director (Full Time) Role: to develop the wider growth strategy for the organisation ensuring sustainability whilst moving to a new facility. To ensure staff are supported appropriately and to provide practical assistance where required. This role is the principal link between the Board and staff team. - Community Engagement Officer (Full Time) Role: to ensure cultural programmes and social activities are delivered. Providing additional support to volunteers. Practical delivery and monitoring of classes / programmes. - Music Teacher (Full Time) Role: to deliver group music lessons in an interactive environment and work on social skills. 2. Current activity Relocating to the heart of the community, Erskine Arts operates a creative venue space with an expansive cultural programme accessible to the wider community and across Renfrewshire. The creative programme contains a multitude of opportunities from affordable cultural classes, skills development and training, awards accreditation, venue space, artist in residence, public outdoor activity & events as well as social, ethnic and gender based support workshops. Our users are at the heart of developing and producing business activities, creative programmes, learning experiences and practical volunteering opportunities. This has proven to be a start point for many individuals and groups who become close to the organisation, becoming advocates and signposts, allowing their experience to translate to others coming up behind them in age and experience. There has been significant development of many
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4 of those having experienced some aspect of the organisation - whether workshops, training, tuition and a professionalising of their hobby or interest - towards careers in the creative industries. This is testament to the importance of this organisation in the community and the need for its continued commitment. Having built a strong client base with our live events, media services and music tuition classes over the past 6 years, there is an established income source to help sustain the organisation’s growth and development. Erskine Arts also provides event and media services to the private and third sector through PA & Lighting Hires and a range of media services including film, photography and podcast style productions. Erskine Arts explored the further potential to pivot to online learning during the pandemic and continued to run music classes online with parents enthusiastically continuing standing orders for their children in lock-down. The team assisted local groups with digital participation and online programming and in the spirit of the company’s commitment to the community, recently help was given by the team to Renfrewshire Council to deliver PPE supplies and barriers to businesses across Renfrewshire. 2.1 Audience and users The principal recipients of the programme and commercial services: ● Families living in the local Erskine / Inchinnan & Bishopton area. ● Young people (local) whose families could not afford expensive music classes. ● Older adults who have been denied cultural access due to age or ability. ● Young people and adults (local) seeking to volunteer / get involved with overall aims and mission of the organisation. ● Adults and young people across Renfrewshire who will engage in free or ticketed events as part of our cultural programme. ● Volunteers (local) seeking to gain new skills / community involvement. ● Third sector organisations (local & Renfrewshire wide) seeking support / assistance with marketing, digital skills and event management ● Private organisations seeking service delivery - Media Hires, Event Services, Marketing. 3. Forward plan We aim to build upon success to become more resilient, improve the quality of the services we deliver, develop career pathways and realise our cultural ambition for Erskine and Renfrewshire in line with Renfrewshire Planning and Partnership proposals. With high community engagement in the arts, Erskine Arts aims to bring current partners / creative lets together under one roof to build and expand on a new facility with a sustainable management structure. Although our current facility is fit for purpose now, the landscape of Erskine is changing with respect to current availability of buildings and spaces for the community and local groups. Now in our new home at Erskine Sports Centre, the aim is to develop the facility with accommodation for Erskine Arts and a wide range of cultural partners, to develop and widen participant groups and to utilise and develop the surrounding land for the community. 3.1 Context - evidencing the need This proposition: - addresses occupancy of a local facility for the good of its local community - brings potential learning, employment and wellbeing to young people in the area through creative upskilling and training, - addresses gaps in provision for Renfrewshire groups and organisations to access gathering / training / class
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5 / rehearsal / meeting space - supports the development of a 5-10 year plan for further external, space, public realm amenities around the Centre’s site - allows a vibrant place to help tackle social deprivation, disenfranchisement and encourage an exchange of skills, learning and community contact amid Covid economic recovery Feedback - Erskine’s community charette From the Erskine charette, findings were that there are not enough facilities in Erskine and a call for creative arts, music, a space for young people and the wider community. Comments below were considered within Theme 1 (of 5) - Civic Need - that emerged as Erskine’s future plan. “There’s a shortage of community space for arts, culture, music and young people” “We lack a focal point: other towns have a war memorial, a fountain, some greenery - just a nice place to sit” “We need somewhere for everybody, all ages” “We need somewhere for outdoor events like the Christmas tree or farmers’ markets” Space provision With our current space being a shared access facility already at full capacity, and with longer term security issues around tenure at the current premises, any future development is limited and restricts our aspirations to serve the local community. Erskine suffers from a lack of identity in its facilities. Currently there are 3 venues with mixed activity: - Bargarran Community Centre – A traditional community space available for local bookings / meetings - Park Mains High School – Education and New Sports Hub (RL) - Erskine Sports Centre – Repurposed as a dedicated Cultural Arts Facility Park Mains Sports Hub is currently closed to public use as the building itself is a shared campus with education. Until historical issues surrounding mixed use between the public and education are resolved, there will be limited access to these spaces for the community to use. Bargarran Community Centre is a complex facility. Much of the building is owned by a private landlord through which Renfrewshire Council honoured annual payment to assist the current management committee. The Community Housing and Planning Policy group also occupies office and learning rooms within parts of the leased space. The complex is currently at full capacity with shared access to NHS Doctors Surgery. Erskine Arts relocation to Erskine Sports Centre has opened up this space and allows for greater flexibility / opportunity for Bargarran to become sustainable / focused on traditional community lets. Providing space for local organisations There are a large number of arts and creative organisations currently in need of space for rehearsal, classes, spaces to rent to undertake their work with audiences and participants. These organisations are central to supporting the health and wellbeing of many people, both young & old and often disenfranchised, in Renfrewshire. Erskine Arts space in the Centre can accommodate these organisations in support of their users for frequent/regular and one-off hire of space. It will help bring them, and a wide range of people in the community, together for learning, creative skills, physical activity and wellbeing. Support for young people With Erskine Arts experiencing significant growth in reputation and demand from young people in the area, provision has been made to tackle the antisocial behaviour and the disenfranchisement which often results from levels of deprivation. In a safe, non-discriminatory environment, young people are given support in tuition, classes, recording, rehearsal access and seeking & developing skills to find employment. This invitation to learn allows our young people to find new pathways in life from the exposure to both people and skills. The new space will help in meeting this increasing demand, serving coming generations of 13 to 20 year olds in finding their feet, gaining access to opportunity and encouragement at a pivotal stage in their lives when they need it most.
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6 This community support is extended further through partnership working through the new facility, with fellow tenants who focus on the community’s health, wellbeing and combating the impact of deprivation - as does the external development plan for the site around the Centre in the coming years. This move will provide a springboard to opening up a genuinely impactful new place for Erskine and its future generations. Opportunities for older adults Historically the generation of adults have missed opportunities for support in cultural engagement. We aim to break down barriers to participation and show that no matter what age, there are opportunities for people to learn, take up a new instrument, be part of exciting new workshops and classes and generally to be part of a thriving community. This is something which has flourished post covid lockdown and proves that there is a huge demand for activities, events and support for older adults in our community. This will lead to greater community cohesion, strong mental health and wellbeing and opportunities for people to volunteer and feel connected. Demand for professional services Erskine Arts undertakes commercial creative services including: - Recording services - where studio expertise is combined with facility use - Facility only / studio and equipment hire - where the artists/youth group/band have skills to operate on their own within the space - Production - podcasts, editing, narration, media suite - Filming - including direction, camera operation and footage capture combined with sound, editing and graphics - Photography - PA Hire Erskine Arts existing income is from their considerable expertise as a team in the above services. They continue to develop three levels of engagement around these: - Free service - young local bands or performers who want to record their music, community groups who require equipment with those who can use it. - Grassroots - for those further down the line with their knowledge and need the services and in need of equipment but also skilling, training and who inevitably go on to learn how to deliver these services for themselves and others; ie creative individuals at an early stage in their learning or careers. - Professional / commercial clients - those who need to buy the service of the team and the equipment as a straightforward transaction - i.e. musicians, podcasters needing production or editing skills, studio hire for their own work, hire of equipment to facilitate their creative process. 3.2 Market appraisal Social/community Whilst space is a premium in Erskine there are no other venues close by who would directly compete for hire of space to deliver a cultural-specific programme. Bargarran Community Centre The centre has been identified to facilitate more traditional community lets like carpet bowls, meetings, parties. The venue is in need of improvements and Renfrewshire Council pays a lease for the upstairs rooms. Renfrewshire venues Stage quality cultural events i.e. Paisley Arts Centre. Previously discussed is a partnership with the council to work together and potentially share some programming. Smaller event / stripped down / book signing / workshop type event at our venue would be a good option for organisations and artists of these venues are too large or won’t work. Commercial / services Erskine Bridge Hotel (Now Muthu Glasgow Hotel)
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7 Offers venue space for conferences, meetings and weddings however is now closed to the public to house asylum seekers. Brick Lane Studios / Brick Lane Media Studio spaces are more expensive than what Erskine Arts’ offer. Brick Lane Media is purely a profit making business with large scale PA Hire companies such as Adlib and FE Live. Far bigger operation without much crossover of business regarding scale of client demand. Independent filmographers - such as Studio 27 Erskine Arts are equal or lower on fees for services but Studio 27’s portfolio is slightly more varied, has drone qualifications and marginally better quality equipment. 4. Future programme / activity 4.1 Public programme Enabling maximum participation in and exposure to the arts in Renfrewshire to include connecting, showcasing and amplifying creative and cultural talent; encouraging participation in arts, cultural and heritage activities by removing barriers to awareness and access; producing, promoting and encouraging ambition. The programme would resemble the grid below. To help interpret Erskine Arts activity and audience, this shows the benefits cultural, social and economic of each as well as the intended recipient or target participants. Budgets have been allocated in accordance with this level of activity in the coming year 1-3 of this plan. TABLE 1: Programme users and outcomes Programme User/audience Outcomes Cultural Social Economic Skills Development Programme General Music Classes 6-18 year olds Adults 18+ Older people Musical skills Improved cultural knowledge Social inclusion Enhanced wellbeing Income generation Film and Media Workshops 16-21 year olds Develop quality content. Raised skills in media Developed cultural knowledge Social inclusion Enhanced wellbeing Skilled, on career pathway. Creative Development Programme
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8 Choir All age groups Cultural Engagement Social cohesion Social inclusion Enhanced wellbeing Income generation Volunteer Opportunities Weekend Studio Sessions 16-25 year olds Cultural Development Social inclusion Enhanced wellbeing Skills development Art Classes 18+ Increased engagement Raised skills in physical art Developed cultural knowledge Social inclusion Enhanced wellbeing Local Priorities Income generation Volunteer Opportunities Crew Meetings 12-18 year olds Engagement in the community Positive contribution to society Arts / Saltire Awards Social inclusion Enhanced wellbeing Skills Development Jam Sessions 12-18 year olds Older Adults Engagement in the community Safe Spaces Social inclusion Enhanced wellbeing Volunteer Opportunities Events Programme - delivered with young people as part of training programme Internal Events 16 - 25 year olds Adults Older people Improved cultural knowledge Experience of high quality cultural experiences Cultural participation Shared sense of pride in local area Local Priorities Community benefit Skilled, on career pathway (crew) Real life work experience (crew) Income generation for Erskine Arts and local businesses Cinema 8-15 years 16-25 year olds Adults Older people Cultural participation Shared sense of pride in local area Local Priorities Community benefit Income generation Soup Sessions Older Adults Cultural participation Engagement in the community Food Provision Local Priorities Community benefit Volunteer Opportunities
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9 Events and Media Services - delivered by young people as part of training programme Event hire and production services West of Scotland local business and third sector conferences, functions and award ceremonies; dance and theatre shows; gala days Public engagement Supporting local groups / organisations.. Raising profile Social inclusion Enhanced wellbeing Income Generation Skilled, on career pathway (crew) Real life work experience (crew) Income generation for Erskine Arts Affordable services to enhance local enterprise Filming and Documenting West of Scotland local business and third sector. Online media / events Training Resources Adverts Local Organisations Supporting local groups / organisations.. Raising profile Skilled, on career pathway (crew) Real life work experience (crew) Income generation for Erskine Arts Affordable services to enhance local enterprise Hall Hires General Public Community Groups Small Businesses Growing Partnerships Sharing Resources Capacity Building Income Generation Table 2 breaks down the attendance for each activity. We have been cautious with these numbers and they are based on current activity and projections based on other activities in the wider area. TABLE 2: Attendance by programme 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 Total Total Total Total Total Total General Music Classes 3000 4000 5000 5500 6000 6500 Film and Media Workshops 320 400 600 600 700 700 Choir 300 1000 1200 1500 1500 1500
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10 Weekend Studio Sessions 144 216 240 300 350 400 Art Classes 600 600 600 800 800 800 Crew Meetings 600 800 1000 1000 1000 1000 Jam Sessions 800 2600 3000 3300 3500 3500 Internal Events 960 1020 1500 2000 2200 2500 Cinema 0 600 800 1000 1200 1200 Soup Sessions 600 2000 5000 10000 10000 10000 Lets 0 800 1500 3000 4000 5000 Event hire and production 225 300 300 375 400 430 Filming and Documenting 160 375 375 450 500 550 TOTAL ATTENDANCES 7709 14711 21115 29825 32150 34080 4.2 Commercial activity Commercial activity has previously been based on PA and Media hires - supporting businesses and third sector organisations in Renfrewshire and beyond with support services for events and conferences etc. The majority of business is repeat business on one-off and annual events. Our prices are competitive and clients understand that they are also directly supporting the skills development of young people. Regular clients who we work with annually: ● Renfrewshire Council Events Team - Gala Days / Festival Events / Film Commissions / Podcasts ● Renfrewshire Council - Consultation Events / Film Commissions / Training Resources / Podcasts ● Renfrewshire Leisure - Film Commissions ● Local Events - Fountain Gardens / Erskine MotorBike Meet / Bishopton Day / Helensburgh Winter Fest etc ● Dance / Theatre Company Event Support - Livewire / PACE / KMD Dance / YSSS / Transition / Vision / Elma Whyte / Inspire ● Local Primary Schools - Technical Support / PA Hire ● Funders & funded projects looking for documentary work Clients who we have worked with in past and expect to pick ad-hoc work in future years: ● Active Communities ● Engage Renfrewshire ● INVEST Renfrewshire ● IMPACT Arts ● Right 2 Dance ● PG & Dak Football Podcast ● Cinimor ● Comic Con ● The Gym Group ● Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing ● UWS ● Limelight ● Enterprise Screen ● Creative Change Collective
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11 ● Glasgow Flightpath Fund ● Waterbaby CIC (Dirty Feet) Although activity in 2020 was severely affected by the pandemic, we were swift to adapt to online services ensuring that income generation was not halted altogether. We managed to deliver various digital products for many of our existing clients ensuring that cash flow remained steady. Since returning from lockdown and moving into our new space we have re-built our income generating client base with returning clients whilst building on a new client base too. We have seen a steady return and we are cautiously optimistic about our sustainability as a charity organisation. 4.3 Future development In the next 5 years we will achieve over 130,000 attendances (see above TABLE 2. showing annual breakdown attendances 2023-28) at our new premises through: - Extending our regular paid for classes to include adults - Introducing a live performance programme through regular gigs - Introducing a family cinema programme - Ensure access to a programme of cultural activity for people with disabilities and additional support needs - Developing new clients - Increasing our external PA and media hires - Establishing a venue for increased community-based cultural activity through hall hires Alongside this we are committed to continuing to explore funding routes and partnerships to further develop facilities within the building and externally. We will keep in close conversation with Renfrewshire Leisure and Renfrewshire Council about availability of space on the ground floor as well as working with the Erskine Town Centre regeneration team on the surrounding public realm. Ideas we will be begin to explore on completion of the building works in this first phase include: - A community cafe space - Larger performance space for theatre and gigs - Skatepark with instructor led programme - Small industrial units for business start-ups - Garden & Green Space Initiatives - Artist In Residence Projects 4.4 Marketing - Social / creative programme The success to date is largely word of mouth and personal referrals in the community/sector within Renfrewshire, due to cultivating a loyal audience and participant base. The company has an excellent reputation for both services and the knowledge of the team as well as their priorities for Erskine Arts - going beyond a commercial operation by servicing the community and their wellbeing. To date, their services have been regularly at or near capacity, negating the need for proactive marketing beyond articulation of their service on the website, social media and some opportunistic PR. These tools are low cost and effective given the team run their own marketing tools for themselves, and have the ability to create content, sound, film, messaging, photography to feed the channels to their users and audiences. In addition, the relationships the team have with local, national and internationally successful musicians - bands like Chvrches, The Twilight Sad and many more hugely popular bands - takes their message far. - Commercial partners and clients Future relationships to generate space hire and tenancy will be undertaken by the team using the above mentioned tools and generated digital content. In addition, where income generation via services can be proactively sold, there is a budget included in planning for social media advertising, placed to ensure that services are targeted locally online where space and equipment hire are sought by commercial clients. The team is fully skilled in digital marketing and
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12 this work will be undertaken by them directly. - Networks and partners Erskine Arts’ network is vast and wide. Alongside current local partnerships, local authority and clients, EA has nurtured relationships with renowned artists and public figures whom we will seek to develop programme and engagement activities. These relationships help spread the word of Erskine’s work, ensuring that our profile remains high, aiding our communications effort by their association and maximising our marketing budget. Those with whom we aim to connect include: ● Twilight Sad - Worldwide acclaimed band ● Cloth - Band / Shortlisted for Scottish Album Of The Year 2020 ● Tiny Changes - National Mental Health Charity set up after the death of Scott hutcheson (Frightened Rabbit) ● Tom Urie - Nationally acclaimed actor and performer ● Fiskur / Ross Clark - Nationally acclaimed Musician / Artist ● Poster Paints - Si Liddle (Frightened Rabbit) Carla J Easton ● Greame Smilie - University Lecturer - PHD Royal Conservatoire / Music ● Brian Reynolds - 432 Presents Promotions ( Hug & Pint / Blue Arrow Glasgow) ● David Simpson - Composer / Musician ● Ahsley Storey - Radio Presenter BBC / Comedian ● FK Alexander - Internationally acclaimed award winning performance artist ● Marco Caffolla - Internationally renowned musician / Jazz festival programming ● Ritchie Dempsey - Live engineering / world tours / whole lot of roadies (Idlewild) - Key Local Partnerships. ERSKINE COMMUNITY GARDEN ● This is a firm and longstanding relationship with a local group who have an incredibly strong support network of their own. We have helped to support their community events with media, advertising and signposting members of the community to the project. As an organisation, and as members of the community ourselves, we have volunteered our time in many capacities – creating online video content to raise awareness, litter picking, ground maintenance, tree planting and more. At the moment, we are in the process of developing two exciting new projects with ECG which will benefit the local community. TEAM UP TO CLEAN UP ● In addition to undertaking some commissioned work to support raising the profile of the project, our partnership has also provided an extra opportunity for us to be engaged in our community – to have our young people engaged in skills development pathways, volunteering opportunities and cultivating a strong sense of responsibility and civic pride. We regularly attend litter pick events, build social media profiles and play a key role in keeping Erskine safe and tidy. ERSKINE HOSPITAL ● In another long standing relationship, we have supported Erskine Hospital in a range of events and activities. We have provided PA systems and event management services for various fundraisers, including the Erskine Motorbike Meets and Car Shows and have given support in developing their own internal podcast/radio show for patients and veterans. One of the many benefits of this partnership has been developing a relationship with Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, another prominent local business who employ veterans seriously injured during their service. ERSKINE COMMUNITY COUNCIL ● Over the years, we have supported our local community council by bringing new membership and, in particular, encouraging young people to engage in the shaping of their local community by attending Local Area Partnership meetings, applying for local funding and linking in with community events. Having previously dedicated voluntary time to sit on the community council, we aim to work with them on positive solutions to build a better Erskine for our community.
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13 ONE REN ● Not only has One Ren become one of our top clients but we have developed a secure partnership with our developments and consultation for Erskine Sports Centre to become a cultural hub. They have dedicated much of their time to support our move in good faith. The One Ren Culture and Arts team identified Erskine Arts as a key asset in the wider Renfrewshire cultural community. They currently fund and support a key position within the organisation through the Cultural Organisational Development (CODF/Arts Connection) to ensure growth and sustainability for Erskine Arts. We are currently working in partnership on a Creative Scotland Place Partnership project which will see additional funding and programming committed to benefit Erskine. ARTS CONNECTION (CODF) ● The Arts Connection is a newly formed cohort of trusted cultural organisations supported by Renfrewshire Leisure. Partner organisations include: ○ Erskine Arts ○ Outspoken Arts ○ Create Paisley ○ The Star Project ○ Right 2 Dance ○ PACE Youth Theatre ○ Paisley Opera ● The aim of the group is to support one another and to raise awareness across Renfrewshire with regards to cultural programming, provide opportunities for community engagement and volunteering, ensure sustainability and crucially, to enhance the cultural offer available within our authority area. 5. Resources 5.1 Equipment PA and Media equipment Erskine Arts has numerous capital assets which benefit income generation as well as acting as a resource for the local community. These include: ● Small to Large audience PA equipment (approx £20k) ● Film / Media / Podcasting / Lighting equipment (approx £8k) ● IT / Administration / Software and equipment (approx £3k) ● Venue / Stage / Tables / Chairs / Kitchen equipment (approx £5k) Van (approx £3k) The Erskine Arts van has been a valuable asset not only to enable safe transportation of equipment but also to assist local community groups and support individuals with needs. Most recently it was used to deliver PPE supplies on behalf of Renfrewshire Council across hundreds of local authority small businesses and facilitating a local community nursery transition to a temporary facility whilst building works are completed. 5.2 Building This five year plan takes in our move from the Bargarran Halls to take on a long term lease from Renfrewshire Council for the upper floor of Erskine Sports Centre. The upper floor is accessible by lift and stairs. We have £100,000 grant through the Scottish Government Town Centre Fund to carry out works in the building in order to accommodate the following: - Studio / Teaching / Editing Room (Circular)
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14 Erskine Arts will operate music tuition classes, small group activity, recording, filming and podcast recording from the circular room. This will be the permanent base for the bulk of traditional programmed activity until further capital investment is found to create a larger, more purpose built space for these activities. - Editing Suite Dedicated room for video editing / teaching separate from the large editing room. Allows for increased capacity and quiet space to deliver on income generating projects. - Foyer Area & Office This will provide small meeting break out space for tea / coffee along with box office and administration space for staff. - Civic Hall & Venue This hall will be undergoing refurbishment as part of the capital developments. It will enable the space to be better suited to cultural events and performance groups who will hire the space and will be used for an annual programme of events including gigs, cinema, conferencing etc - Green Room Currently an unused kitchen space, this will also go refurbishment as part of the capital funding transforming it into a usable green room for the civic hall space as well small meeting and social gathering activities. There is also space here to explore a media training facility within this room for audio and video editing / YouTube production style training workshops. To ensure a sustainable approach in creating this new community space for culture and arts we have requested a peppercorn rent from Renfrewshire Council whilst contributing to a shared percentage of service charges. Our initial request was to have a License To Occupy agreement with One Ren however they are now renouncing their lease for the top floor in order for us to have an agreement directly with Renfrewshire Council. An options appraisal will be sought to establish the best future agreement with Renfrewshire Council i.e. a long term lease or Asset Transfer. 5.3 People We currently have 3 full time employees delivering across all areas of the organisation. We are committed to paying above the recommended Living Wage which will need to be reviewed again in 2024 to ensure we are still above the recommended living wage. We have built in inflationary pay rises on two occasions to the budget, however if our sales exceed we are committed to reviewing pay rises on an annual basis. We have an auto enrolment pension scheme and contribute to that. At present our Managing Director lives and works in the Erskine area with another member of staff (Community Development Officer) originally from Erskine now living in Paisley. This member of staff came to the project as a young person at 15 years of age and as a result of our training pathway, is now an integral part of the team. Two previous employees from our team have also come through our training programme and have moved onto further employment opportunities. We also supported two Community Jobs Scotland placements and have supported a 6 month post through KICKSTARTER. We also provide High School Work Experience Placements locally to Park Mains High. To achieve the plan we may need to bring in some additional roles to assist with growth. We will seek to bring a part time admin assistant to support general development in 2024 and we will also require to have a part time caretaker / cleaner position as use for the space grows. TABLE 3: Job roles Job Title Weekly Hours Pro Rata Salary Managing Director 25 £40,000.00 £30,000.00 Community Development Officer 35 £28,500.00 £28,500.00
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15 Music Teacher 35 £25,000.00 £25,000.00 Admin Assistant (future role) 15 £25,000.00 £11,700.00 Cleaner 3 - £2,160.00 TOTALS £97,360.00 6. Financial Plan 6.1 Income Generation In the last 10 years we have generated two thirds of our income through our social enterprise. This income has supported our staffing costs in order to develop and run our creative programme for young people. By becoming a registered charity we are able to expand our fundraising capability whilst also growing our earned income - this is particularly important for our long term plan to develop more space in and around the building for the community. We envisage the continued growth of our existing business over the next five years to include our external hires and to extend to hall hires and ticket income from gigs. Moving into a new building will allow us to extend capacity on our classes and recording sessions for which we charge a subsidised rate in recognition of the economic barriers faced by families and musicians. We have already had talks with other organisations who would like to hire the space on a regular basis. Our earned income targets are broken down in Table 3. A full breakdown of projected paid attendances and pricing is in Appendix 1 by year. These figures are related to the attendances in Table 2 however, please note Table 2 refers to paid for and free attendances. TABLE 4: Earned income Earned Income 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 Event/Media Services PA Hires £36,000.00 £30,000.00 £24,000.00 £20,000.00 £20,000.00 Media Hires £32,000.00 £28,000.00 £28,000.00 £24,000.00 £24,000.00 Ticket Income Gigs £0.00 £13,500.00 £21,600.00 £25,920.00 £25,920.00 Cinema club £0.00 £3,000.00 £3,600.00 £4,200.00 £4,200.00 Classes Income £17,100.00 £37,200.00 £52,200.00 £52,200.00 £52,200.00
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16 Space Income Hall Hires weekdays £4,800.00 £12,000.00 £20,000.00 £25,000.00 £25,000.00 Hall Hires weekends £375.00 £3,000.00 £5,400.00 £10,080.00 £11,520.00 TOTAL EARNED INCOME £90,275.00 £126,700.00 £154,800.00 £161,400.00 £162,840.00 Our grant funding forecasts are based on confirmed funding; and research into relevant funds whose criteria we match and/or whom we have funding from previously. With a fundraiser on board we are confident we will reach these targets. We are not relying on statutory funding to deliver our plan. TABLE 5: Grant Income Funding Source Confirmed 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 PURPOSE CODF Renfrewshire Council For year 1 £18,000 £18,000 Organisational Development CHEF Renfrewshire Council Pending £18,000 Events Programme Engage - Health & Wellbeing Pending £10,000 Creative Programme Glasgow Flightpath Fund Future £5,000 £5,000 CAPITAL LAP For year 1 £5,000 £5,000 £5,000 £5,000 £5,000 Creative Programme Celebrating Renffrewshire For year 1 £7,000 £7,000 £7,000 £7,000 £7,000 Youth Development Robertson Trust Future £15,000 £15,000 £15,000 Creative Programme / OD Lottery Awards For All Pending £10,000 £10,000 £10,000 Equipment / Programme Lottery Young Start For Year 1-3 £30,000 £30,000 £30,000 Youth Development Creative Scotland Youth Arts Access Future £15,000 £15,000 £15,000 Programme Foundation Scotland Future £4,000 £4,000 £4,000 Programme Greenspace Scotland For Year 1-2 £50,000 £50,000 CAPITAL Creative Scotland Artist For Year 1 £16,500 CAPITAL Social Care & For Year 1 £3,000 Wellbeing
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17 Partnership Programmes Town Centre Fund £100,000 CAPITAL Sustainable Communities Fund £80,000 CAPITAL TOTAL GRANT FUNDING £249,500 £213,000 £86,000 £51,000 £56,000 6.2 Expenditure Our main overheads are our staffing in order to deliver our creative programme and our sales income. There are additional programme costs in Years 1 and 2 as part of the funding is for an artist in residence and greenspace projects. The crew (the young people we work with) will manage hires; gigs; cinema and classes as this is part of their skills development training and how we create career pathways for them. Marketing costs increase across the 5 years in recognition of the extended programme balanced against the in-house skills for content generation for communications. Rent and service charges for utilities are a new budget line for us and projections are based on the following: - Investment of £100,000 to the building from Erskine Arts - A long term commitment to the building from Erskine Arts - A complementary partnership with Renfrewshire Council and One Ren to address the needs of the area and in response to the design charrette - A share of relevant utilities and services to the building - A grace period to carry out the refurbishment and build up business in a post-Covid environment - In the first five years we would not expect to incur repair costs to the building In Year One there will be a one-off capital investment of £100,000 in the refurbishment of the upper floor of the leisure centre. £8,000 has been allocated to cover the service charge in year 1 whilst we are unable to earn income from the space. Contingency is based at 5% to allow for any fluctuations in income or expenditure. 6.3 Forecast Budgets We forecast a reasonable increase to our cash flow over the five year period and have already invested much of our unrestricted income to be recouped from capital grant funding. Most of our current programme is completely free of charge however we will seek to introduce a modest user fee which we believe will become a better balance of affordability to the public and sustainability for the charity. TABLE 6: Forecast budgets Account 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 ACTUAL Turnover Interest Income 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41 Music Tuition Fees 10,351.99 17,100.00 37,200.00 52,200.00 52,200.00 52,200.00
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18 Other Revenue 1,784.63 2,000.00 2,500.00 2,500.00 2,500.00 2,500.00 Sales 76,703.04 68,000.00 58,000.00 52,000.00 44,000.00 44,000.00 Hall Hires 0.00 5,175.00 15,000.00 25,400.00 35,080.00 36,520.00 Box Office 0.00 0.00 16,500.00 25,200.00 30,120.00 30,120.00 Total Turnover 88,869.07 92,304.41 129,229.41 157,329.41 163,929.41 165,369.41 Cost of Sales Cost of Goods Sold 182.75 300.00 600.00 800.00 1,000.00 1,200.00 Total Cost of Sales 182.75 300.00 600.00 800.00 1,000.00 1,200.00 Gross Profit 88,686.32 92,004.41 128,629.41 156,529.41 162,929.41 164,169.41 Administrative Costs Advertising & Marketing 414.16 1,300.00 1,100.00 1,200.00 1,300.00 1,300.00 Audit & Accountancy fees 1,222.47 1,222.47 1,222.47 1,222.47 1,222.47 1,222.47 Bank Fees 14.80 14.80 14.80 14.80 14.80 14.80 Consulting 3,746.10 1,800.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 Depreciation Expense 2,275.84 2,275.84 2,275.84 2,275.84 2,275.84 2,275.84 Equipment - Small Items (less 500) 3,383.09 5,000.00 4,000.00 5,000.00 4,000.00 2,000.00 External Hire of Services 8,921.00 13,000.00 7,000.00 6,000.00 4,000.00 4,000.00 General Expenses 915.18 600.00 1,000.00 1,100.00 1,200.00 1,300.00 Insurance 1,578.04 1,578.04 1,700.00 1,700.00 1,800.00 1,800.00 IT Software and Consumables 171.19 800.00 500.00 500.00 500.00 500.00 Legal Expenses 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 Motor Vehicle Expenses 1,451.90 1,451.90 1,000.00 1,200.00 1,000.00 1,200.00 Office - Printing / Stationery / Sundry Resources 499.43 300.00 400.00 450.00 500.00 500.00 Postage, Freight & Courier 122.73 122.73 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 Rent 4,528.00 8,160.00 15,000.00 15,000.00 15,000.00 15,000.00 Repairs & Maintenance 589.50 1,500.00 600.00 650.00 400.00 650.00 Salaries 112,319.32 82,915.00 94,966.00 112,319.32 112,319.32 112,319.32 Staff Training 34.20 34.20 300.00 300.00 300.00 300.00
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19 Subscriptions 2,543.45 2,543.45 2,543.45 2,543.45 2,543.45 2,543.45 Subsistence 1,185.31 1,700.00 1,500.00 1,500.00 1,500.00 1,500.00 Telephone & Internet 247.00 247.00 247.00 247.00 247.00 247.00 Travel - Fuel and Other Travel Costs 1,162.61 600.00 800.00 600.00 600.00 600.00 Capital Expense 0.00 160,000.00 130,000.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total Administrative Costs 147,338.32 287,178.43 267,282.56 154,935.88 151,835.88 150,385.88 Operating Profit (58,652.00) (195,174.02) (138,653.15) 1,593.53 11,093.53 13,783.53 Other Income Grant Award 74,129.21 249,500.00 213,000.00 86,000.00 51,000.00 56,000.00 Total Other Income 74,129.21 249,500.00 213,000.00 86,000.00 51,000.00 56,000.00 Profit on Ordinary Activities Before Taxation 15,477.21 54,325.98 74,346.85 87,593.53 62,093.53 69,783.53 Profit after Taxation 15,477.21 54,325.98 74,346.85 87,593.53 62,093.53 69,783.53 6.4 Reserves Policy As a charity we have a reserves policy of 3 months running costs for the organisation (currently around £25,000). Our current bank balance as of 5th October 2023 is £89,666.00 which has restricted funding set against it including the reserve amount. Greenspace Scotland Project (£38,000) Creative Scotland Artist in Residence (£6,400) Celebrating Renfrewshire (£3,500) NAtional Lottery Young Start (£12,000) leaving around £5,000 unrestricted income. With the need for capital investment we will create a reserves policy to ring-fence funding to enable us to purchase new equipment. 6.5 Pricing Due to the nature of our broad relationships, our pricing structure will be flexible to allow for both being opportunistic/competitive as well as appropriately discounted for local partners. Where third sector and charitable organisations with smaller funds can be accommodated, the pricing will reflect their capacity to pay and need for space, equipment and time/skills from Erskine Arts. With commercially-driven trading, we will remain aware of our peers for pricing client work and ensure that the cost of hire and services is priced appropriately within the current market context and with our closest competitors in mind. Average pricing is included in Appendix 1. 7. Monitoring and Evaluation
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20 From this business plan we will create annual work plans to keep our work on track. These plans will form the basis of reporting to the board and will help us identify any slippage or changes required so we can adapt our plans if required. We will continue to evaluate our programme of work through surveys and feedback sessions with participants and clients so we know that we are delivering the best possible outcomes for the community. 8. Risk Assessment Description Probability Severity Overall Risk Mitigation Financial Fundraising targets not achieved Medium High High - Excellent programme of work - Develop relationships with funders - Allow plenty of run in time to raise funds - Realistic goals set - Targets reviewed Earned income targets not achieved Low High Medium - Projections based on previous actuals - Use networks and comms to build hall lets - Income is balanced across different aspects of business so not reliant on one area - Targets reviewed - Adapt the plan to suit income Poor budget control and reporting Low Medium Medium - Excellent track record - Robust financial procedures in place - Regular reporting to board Inadequate reserves policy Low Low Low - Reserves already policy in place Fraud Low Medium Medium - Individual bank logins - Authorisation procedures in place - 2 signatories required for cheques Premises Building repairs Medium High High - Survey carried out as part of refurbishment - Lease negotiation with Renfrewshire Council - Adequate insurance
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21 Flooding/Fire Low High Medium - Health and Safety policies - Risk Assessments Operational Staff leave Medium Medium Medium - Commitment to fair pay - Notice period required - Staff appraisal Equipment fail Low Medium Low - Equipment maintained - Renewal plan built in Programme Reduction in no of young people participating Low Medium Low - Young people informing development of organisation - Dedicated youth engagement role - Experienced staff Wider community don’t engage Low Medium Low - Programme and activity based on research and demand - Ongoing evaluation and consultation to review programme for community Pandemic Reduced capacity on indoor work continues Medium Low Low - Forecasts take this into consideration Future lockdowns Medium High High - We have track record of accessing emergency funding APPENDIX 1 - PRICING AND INCOME GENERATION Erskine Arts Pricing
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22 and Income 2022-23 Unit Price Hours Tickets Per Year INCOME Kids Lessons p-mth 20 12 42 12 10080 Adult Lessons p-mth 20 9 0 0 0 Art Classes 20 4 0 0 0 Choir Sessions 12 4 25 0 0 Week Hall Hires 20 0 0 0 Weekend Hall Hires 25 0 0 0 Gigs 15 0 0 0 Cinema 5 0 0 0 PA Hires 2000 20 40000 Media Hires 800 45 36000 TOTAL 86080 2023-24 Unit Price Hours Tickets Per Year INCOME Kids Guitar Drums 20 12 60 12 14400 Adult Lessons 20 9 45 3 2700 Art Classes 12 4 20 0 0 Choir Sessions 12 4 25 0 0 Week Hall Hires 20 80 3 4800 Weekend Hall Hires 25 5 3 375 Gigs 15 0 0 0 Cinema 5 0 0 0 PA Hires 2000 18 36000 Media Hires 800 40 32000 TOTAL 90275 2024-25 Unit Price Hours Attendees Per Year INCOME Kids Guitar Drums 20 12 70 12 16800
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23 Adult Lessons 20 9 50 12 12000 Art Classes 20 4 20 12 4800 Choir Sessions 12 4 25 12 3600 Week Hall Hires 20 60 10 12000 Weekend Hall Hires 25 10 12 3000 Gigs 15 90 10 13500 Cinema 5 50 12 3000 PA Hires 2000 15 30000 Media Hires 800 35 28000 TOTAL 126700 2025-26 Unit Price Hours Attendees Per Year INCOME Kids Guitar Drums 25 12 70 12 21000 Adult Lessons 25 2 60 12 18000 Art Classes 25 40 20 12 6000 Choir Sessions 20 55 30 12 7200 Week Hall Hires 25 80 10 20000 Weekend Hall Hires 30 15 12 5400 Gigs 18 100 12 21600 Cinema 5 60 12 3600 PA Hires 2000 12 24000 Media Hires 800 35 28000 TOTAL 154800 2026-27 Unit Price Hours Attendees Per Year INCOME Kids Guitar Drums 25 12 70 12 21000 Adult Lessons 25 2 60 12 18000 Art Classes 25 40 20 12 6000 Choir Sessions 20 55 30 12 7200 Week Hall Hires 25 100 10 25000
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24 Weekend Hall Hires 30 28 12 10080 Gigs 18 120 12 25920 Cinema 5 70 12 4200 PA Hires 2000 10 20000 Media Hires 800 30 24000 TOTAL 161400 2027-28 Unit Price Hours Attendees Per Year INCOME Kids Guitar Drums 25 12 70 12 21000 Adult Lessons 25 2 60 12 18000 Art Classes 25 40 20 12 6000 Choir Sessions 20 55 30 12 7200 Week Hall Hires 25 100 10 25000 Weekend Hall Hires 30 32 12 11520 Gigs 18 120 12 25920 Cinema 5 70 12 4200 PA Hires 2000 10 20000 Media Hires 800 30 24000 TOTAL 162840