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Professor Steven Broomhead Chief Executive

Town Hall

Sankey Street Warrington WA1 1UH

25 September 2017

Supporting the Local Economy Policy Committee Tuesday 3 October 2017 at 6.30pm Council Chamber, Town Hall, Sankey Street, Warrington, WA1 1UH Agenda prepared by Julie Pickles, Democratic Services Officer – Telephone: (01925) 443212 - E-mail: jpickles@warrington.gov.uk A G E N D A Part 1 Items during the consideration of which the meeting is expected to be open to members of the public (including the press) subject to any statutory right of exclusion. Item Page

Number 1.

Apologies for Absence To record any apologies received.

2. Code of Conduct - Declarations of Interest Relevant Authorities (Disclosable Pecuniary Interests) Regulations 2012 Members are reminded of their responsibility to declare any disclosable pecuniary or non-pecuniary interest which they have in any item of business on the agenda no later than when the item is reached.

To: Members of the Supporting the Local Economy Policy Committee

Councillors: Cllr S Parish – Chair Cllr G Friend – Deputy Chair Cllrs M Hannon, T Jennings, R Purnell, T Williams, B Barr, R Bate and S Woodyatt.

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3. Minutes

To confirm the minutes of the meeting held on 26 June 2017 as a correct record.

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4. 5. 6. 7.

Update on Warrington Means Business, Towns Infrastructure Plans and Strategic Transport Report of the Managing Director of Warrington and Co – Steve Park and Assistant Director Transport and Economic Regeneration Growth and Environment – D Boyer - Report to follow. Look at the Town Centre Report of the Managing Director of Warrington and Co – Steve Park – Report to follow. Employment Support Programme Report of the Managing Director of Warrington and Co – Steve Park. Work Programme 2017/2018 To consider a report on behalf of Councillor Steve Parish, Chair of the Committee, on the Work Programme 2017/18.

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8. Dates of Future Meetings 22 November 2017 30 January 2018 27 March 2018 Part 2 Items of a "confidential or other special nature" during which it is likely that the meeting will not be open to the public and press as there would be a disclosure of exempt information as defined in Section 100I of the Local Government Act 1972.

NIL

Agenda Item 3

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY POLICY COMMITTEE

27 June 2017 Present: Councillor S Parish (Chairman) Councillor G Friend (Deputy)

Councillors R Purnell, T Williams, M Hannon, R Barr and R Bate.

Also Present D Boyer – Assistant Director of Transport and Environment S Park – MD, Warrington & Co J Pickles – Democratic Services Officer STLE 1 Apologies for Absence Apologies for absence had been received from Cllr S Woodyatt and Councillor T Jennings.

STLE 2 Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of interests received. STLE 3 Minutes Decision – That the minutes of the meeting held on 21 March 2017 be confirmed and signed as a correct record by the Chair. STLE 4 Workshop to set the Committee’s Work Programme for the 2017/18

Municipal Year This agenda item opened with the Chairman, Councillor S Parish giving an outline of the committees role, remit and previous work. The discussion also included local ideas for inclusion in the 2017/18 work programme. These have been spilt into 3 main themes which are economic & regeneration, leisure & cultural and flood management. Topics which overlap with other Policy Committees and also Scrutiny Committees had been identified and it was suggested that an invitation be extended to other committee members if these topics are selected for the work programme. During 2016-17 the committee looked at the following topics:-

Theme: Regeneration & Town Centre

• Independent design panel • Residential development in the town centre • Redevelopment of the Town Centre

Agenda Item 3

Theme – Learning, Skills and Employment • Social mobility for young people • Social Enterprise and Lending

Working groups established

• Industrial Strategy Consultation – End Date 17 April 2017 • Inclusive Growth Working Party – For May 2017

It was noted that there were no outstanding items from the2016/2017 work programme. The discussion then went on to discuss National Policy Themes relevant to this Committee;- Department of Transport (DOT) works with agencies and partners to support the transport network and plan and invest in in transport infrastructure to keep the UK on the move. In summary it; • provides policy, guidance, and funding to English local authorities to help them run

and maintain their road networks, improve passenger and freight travel, and develop new major transport schemes

• investing in, maintaining and operating around 4,300 miles of the motorway and trunk road network in England through Highways England

• setting the strategic direction for the rail industry in England and Wales – funding investment in infrastructure through Network Rail, awarding and managing rail franchises, and regulating rail fares

• improving English bus services through funding and regulation • working to make our roads less congested and polluted by promoting lower carbon

transport, including cycling and walking • encouraging the use of new technology such as smart ticketing and low carbon

vehicles • maintaining high standards of safety and security in transport • supporting the maritime sector by producing the overall strategy and planning

policy for • HS2: High Speed Rail – Government information on the development of HS2. • Road Safety - Government briefings on initiatives to improve road safety and

prevent deaths and serious injuries. Initiatives include improving driver skills, knowledge and attitudes through campaigns such as Think! The Government aims to ensure that drivers and vehicles are licensed and safe, and bringing in laws to make roads safer.

• Road network and Traffic – This is a briefing which sets out a long-term funding programme to create smooth, smart and sustainable roads. The funding aims to ensure that highways work is properly managed, and that parking enforcement on local roads is fair and effective.

Agenda Item 3

• Highways England - Highways England is the government company charged with operating, maintaining and improving England’s motorways and major A roads. It does not manage all roads in Britain: local roads are managed by the relevant local authority. The company is responsible for motorways and major (trunk) roads in England totalling. around 4,300 miles.

While this represents only 2 per cent of all roads in England by length, these roads carry a third of all traffic by mileage and two thirds of all heavy goods traffic. Highways England will deliver £15 billion of investment on the road network as described in the Government’s Road Investment Strategy. This includes £11 billion of capital funding committed between 2015 and 2020 as set out in the company’s Strategic Business Plan.

• Transport for the North - Transport for the North (TfN) is transforming the transport

system of the North of England. By connecting the region with fast, frequent and reliable transport links we can drive economic growth to create a Northern Powerhouse.

• DEFRA – The purpose of DEFRA is to unleash the economic potential of food and

farming, nature and the countryside, champion the environment and provide security against floods, animal and plant diseases and other hazards.

Leisure & Cultural Activities • Parks - The House of Commons and Local Government Select Committee warned,

earlier this month, that Britain's 27,000 parks and green spaces were at a "tipping point". Newcastle City Council has become the first local authority to consider handing over control of its public parks to a charitable trust. The National Trust has been advising the council, and a £237,500 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to develop the plans was awarded, under the condition that findings will be shared with other local authorities.

• Department for Culture, Media and Sports (DCMS) helps to drive growth, enrich lives and promote Britain abroad. Priorities include: growing the economy; connecting the UK; encouraging participation; sustaining excellence and promoting Britain; supporting our media; ensuring social responsibility.

• City for Culture - The Heritage Lottery Fund committed £3 million to the holder of the UK City of Culture title from 2021 onwards to boost local heritage. To unlock the funds the successful bidder will need to demonstrate that their programme is underpinned by heritage and builds on existing investment by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

• Commonwealth Games 2022 - The Government is calling on UK cities interested in hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games to work up plans for how they would stage the event. As at 17.5.17 Liverpool and Birmingham are the two remaining cities who are proceeding with bids to host the games.

The Government will work with interested cities and the relevant Commonwealth Games Associations on a detailed assessment of whether Britain can step in to host

Agenda Item 3

the event in 2022 after it was announced last month that Durban in South Africa can no longer hold the games. This will include looking at important factors such as the economic benefits the Games could deliver to the UK – and to the host city or cities - through international trade, investment and tourism opportunities, and how potential host cities could benefit as well as the necessary infrastructure and major event delivery experience that potential host cities have.

Flood Management • Climate Change - The government is working at home and abroad to adapt to the

effects of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by investing in low-carbon energy sources, improving fuel standards in cars and increasing energy efficiency wherever possible.

• Environment Agency is responsible for: regulating major industry and waste;

treatment of contaminated land; water quality and resources; fisheries; inland river, estuary and harbour navigations; conservation and ecology. It is also responsible for managing the risk of flooding from main rivers, reservoirs, estuaries and the sea. Lead local flood authorities (LLFAs) are responsible for managing the risk of flooding from surface water, groundwater and ordinary watercourses and lead on community recovery. Priorities include: work with businesses and other organisations to manage the use of resources; increase the resilience of people, property and businesses to the risks of flooding and coastal erosion; protect and improving water, land and biodiversity; improve the way we work as a regulator to protect people and the environment and support sustainable growth.

• Flood Probability - This (BETA) service is for learning about a site location's flood probability as part of development planning. It provides a mapping service by postcode or location.

Ideas for consideration for the 2017/18 work programme This section of the document contained details of current projects, initiatives and ideas for the 2017/18 work programme. There are a number of topics which are also relevant to other policy and scrutiny committees. These have been highlighted and it is suggested that invitations be forwarded to other committee members if these topics are selected for the work programme. This will help to prevent duplication and enable particular topics to be looked at from different angles. Economic and Regeneration • Warrington Means Business Updates – key projects and milestones for

developments including (but not limited to) • Town Centre • Time Square Regeneration • Waterfront • Stadium Quarter • Omega

Agenda Item 3

• Town Infrastructure Plans – updates on the current status of the town infrastructure plans

• Strategic Transport – updates on the latest work, key projects and milestones for developments including (but not limited to) the following.

• Sustainable Transport • Highways England • Network Rail • HS2 • TfN (Transport for the North) • JSNA Transport and Air Quality chapter Transport formed a vital part of a communities infrastructure which is included in the remit of the Building Stronger Communities Policy Committee. It is suggested that an invitation be extended to members of this committee when transport related topics are discussed Leisure & Cultural Activities • Parks and Green Spaces /Green Flags • Warrington – City of Culture Flood Management • Flood defence updates on current work being carried about the Environment

Agency, future work and areas of risk The Committee where then asked to discuss the national policy trends, local ideas and any other suggestions to decide which topics they would like to include in the 2017/18 work programme. Ideas to populate the work programme were;- Warrington Means Business - General update at each meeting Towns Infrastructure Plans – General update at each meeting Strategic Transport – General update at each meeting Homes / Houses and Infrastructure - The Look of the Town Centre Transport for the North Airports and Ports Skills Gaps and Barriers Flood Management. Decision,

To approve the draft Work Programme 2017/18, as above, and to note that further works will be undertaken by officers, in consultation with the Chairman and Deputy Chairman, to develop and refine its detailed content.

Agenda Item 3

STLE 5 Update on Regeneration Projects The Managing Director for Warrington and CO and the Assistant Director of Transport and Environment provided an update on regeneration projects that were ongoing within the Borough: Time Square Development Programme

• Market Multi Story Car Park completion October 2017. • Temporary Market completion (fit out) August 2017 with fit out contractor commencing

April 2017. • Public has been given access to new forecourt in front of existing market. • New sub-station (Dolmans Lane) completion May 2017. Contractor controlled access via

Bridge Street will continue until completion. • Phase 4 tender evaluation and associated value engineering is complete with a single

compliant tender identified. Phase 4 incorporates the construction of the council offices, leisure block (cinema and restaurants), permanent market building and public realm. Authorisation to award contract being sought from May 2017 Executive Board with a start on site estimated September 2017.

• Restaurant lettings are continuing to progress well and are currently in legals and/or Board approvals within the relevant organisations.

• Alterations to the traffic management operations along Academy Way for Phase 3 works (MSCP) are expected to continue until August.

• Means of mitigating loss of temporary car parking has been identified. • Plans to relocate market traders are continuing to advance, target move end

August/beginning September 2107. • All required CPOs secured and possession will be achieved to meet development

requirements. Stadium Quarter

• Improvement works to the underpass from Foundry Street to the Bus Interchange is completed. We are meeting with Network Rail to agree a strategy for the undertaking of netting to the bridges to protect this public realm work, possibly as a joint cost.

• Foundry Street works are complete and the area is now subject to regular traffic enforcement. Parking difficulties outside the Base and the UTC are currently being addressed and this work has started and is expected to be completed shortly.

• Work is continuing to identify an alternative accommodation site for the travelling show people to enable their relocation as soon as practical.

• Central Trading Industrial Estate on Dallam Lane will have some initial work carried out on it to bring up to standards and the relocation of the bus depot currently cited on the Southern Gateway Development area continues to be developed.

• The development of a Youth Zone on the Stadium Quarter continues. A potential development for residential and car parking has been discussed for a site adjacent to Winwick Street,

Agenda Item 3

• Talks are ongoing with a potential hotel developer with investment interest in the Stadium Quarter.

• A Stadium Quarter Development Group has been established to oversee the master planning and delivery of the Stadium Quarter vision and on the back of this initial interest is being shown in new Grade A offices within the area.

Cabinet Works • The Executive Board has agreed the purchase of the Cabinet Works It is likely that the site

will have an interim use as surface parking before being redeveloped for residential uses, potentially with a development partner although initial master planning work has been undertaken.

• A further schedule of condition has been undertaken and an up to date asbestos survey is imminent. A basis has been agreed with Planning and Legal as to how the court order and demolition will progress.

Warrington Waterfront – Centre Park Link

• The acquisition of land to enable the development is nearing completion. • Planning Applications have been submitted for the site remediation and highways

construction. Warrington Waterfront – Western Link

• Talks are taking place with central government to establish commitment to the funding for the high level Bridge crossing, which is the subject of ongoing design work.

• Business case is being prepared for discussions with Government around funding. • WBC highways teams are preparing to launch a public consultation for the route of the

Western Link in the early summer. Town Centre Masterplan

• Details of the masterplan are contained in Warrington Means Business which is the subject of the materials presented in this meeting.

Cultural Quarter

• The Town Centre Masterplan will be used as a background document when resubmitting an application to the traffic management committee to seek approval to pedestrianise Springfield Street. It is hoped that the submission can be made to the traffic management committee before Christmas.

• Talks have commenced with the owner of a major building in the Cultural Quarter area with a view to exploring residential developments options.

Decision,

Agenda Item 3

That the committee notes the officers reports. STLE 6 Dates of Future Meetings 2017/2018 Decision,

To note the schedule of meetings for the remainder of 2017/18, as follows:- 3 October 2017 22 November 2017 30 January 2018 27 March 2018

Signed…………………………..…….

Dated………………………………….

Page 1 of 1

Supporting the Local Economy Policy Committee

Tuesday 3 October 2017 – Council Chamber 6.30 pm

Regeneration Projects Updates – Warrington & Co

Time Square Development Programme

Stadium Quarter

Cabinet Works

Warrington Waterfront Centre Park Link

Warrington Waterfront – Western Link

Town Centre Masterplan

Cultural Quarter

Agenda item 5

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WARRINGTON BOROUGH COUNCIL SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY POLICY COMMITTEE Tuesday 3 October 2017 Report Authors: Steve Park, Managing Director, Warrington & Co

Contact Details: Email Address:

spark@warringtonandco.com

Telephone: 01925 443940

Ward Members:

All

TITLE OF REPORT: Look of the Town Centre 1. PURPOSE OF THE REPORT 1.1 This report is to update Members on the work being undertaken to improve the

Town Centre along with issues relating to the way the town centre looks to visitors, residents and businesses.

2. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND 2.1 The last three years, through the delivery of Warrington Means Business, and

more latterly the Town Centre Masterplan, Warrington town centre has seen the start of several regeneration projects.

2.2 The overriding theme of all of these regeneration projects is to transform the town centre to make it an attractive place to live, work and relax. In doing so, the regeneration projects along with improvements to both existing and new strategic infrastructure, aim to bring more residents coupled with a more family friendly and improved leisure offer.

3.0 RETAIL 3.1 In recent decades the number of residents in the town centre has dropped

significantly, and with this a reduction in the number of people working in the town centre. The has been a reliance upon retail and leisure as the key business sectors upon which the economy of the town centre survives; and as with all town and city centres across the UK there has been a significant shift in the structure of high street retailing.

3.2 The rapid expansion of online retail, coupled with the continued development of out-of-town retail centres has resulted in the town centre retail offer becoming more concentrated; principally around Golden Square and the Cockhedge Centre.

3.3 There is strong evidence gathered from research across the UK that shoppers are increasingly looking for a leisure offer as well as retail. According to data intelligence specialist CACI, “leisure-dominated retail trips” have increased by 28%

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over the past two years, and food and beverage spend rose 15% between 2013 and 2016.1

3.4 The contraction of the retail sector in the town centre has resulted in a number of visible void shops along many of the main pedestrian arterial routes and this has no doubt had a negative impact on the image of the town centre.

4.0 EMPLOYMENT 4.1 The contraction of the retail sector has understandably resulted in fewer retail

sector workers in the town centre. Many of the town centre-based heavy industries have either been lost or relocated over several decades, leaving a variety of blue-collar SME businesses and a relatively small number of white-collar businesses, focused mainly in and around Palmyra Square and the Stadium Quarter.

4.2 Warrington, as a borough, enjoys an employment rate of 78.5%, ranking it 8th in the UK when compared to 64 towns and cities. 2 This is largely due to out-of-town economic growth most notably at Omega and in Birchwood.

4.3 The number of town centre workers, across all sectors, can have a dramatic impact on the vibrancy and vitality of the place. Although having a positive influence on retail the impact of workers on the town centre economy is experienced mainly in the leisure sector. It follows therefore that more workers in the town centre will lead to an improved leisure offer.

5.0 RESIDENTIAL 5.1 Following a series of gap analysis exercises, it was clear that the town centre

lacked a viable residential population that could be relied upon to be an authentic economic driver. For some time the Council, in partnership with Warrington & Co has been working on tackling antiquated retail and office space, not fit for purpose for the demands of a modern, flexible commercial centre. Supporting the continued conversion of redundant office and retail space to residential will enable the town centre to respond to changing economic circumstances and retail landscape that continues to prevail in town and city centres and is evident in Warrington.

5.2 Retail and office conversion opportunities to provide residential development has become increasingly evident in Warrington town centre and the last two years.

5.3 The following guiding objectives are key factors in contributing to the successful implementation of the vision for a robust town centre strengthened by an active and organised residential community:

• To be known as an exciting, inspirational and safe place to work, live and visit

• A clean and well maintained town centre

• To reflect a diverse land use pattern that is not homogenous

• To become an important location for business activity, through incubation, managed workspace and small scale office/studio/space/ development

1 Consumer 2017: Where will people shop? Retail Week January 9, 2017 2 Cities Outlook 2017, Centre for Cities

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• Pursue the areas residential offer, through a number of house types and sites aimed at the creation of a sustainable residential community

• To bring land/buildings back into productive use

• To preserve the historic street pattern whilst increasing north/south and east/west pedestrian and vehicular permeability and connectivity

• To create active uses/frontages along key pedestrian routes and create a pedestrian friendly environment full of interest

• To bring forward development opportunities in a comprehensive and coordinated manner, ensuring that the phasing of development is consistent with town centre considerations and aspirations

6.0 PROGRESS TO DATE Business Improvement District (B.I.D.)

• Steering Group/Shadow Board members established, chaired by the Manager of Primark Warrington

• Data Collection of interests complete • Consultation of companies on-going • Baseline agreements now established with Council • Business Plan for a potential BID is now underway • Logo for BID as part of a brand development exercise now underway using

‘LIME’ local marketing consultants • A ballot due is to take place in Q1 2018, and subject to the outcome of the

ballot the BID will be live in July 2018.

Time Square • Market Multi Storey Car Park completion Oct 2017, Open Nov 2017 • Temporary Market complete and open • Phase 4 – Vinci appointed as contractor • Alterations to traffic management operations along Academy Way for Phase

3 works (MSCP) are expected to continue until end September 2017

Stadium Quarter • Onside Youth Zone – initial meeting has now taken place, initial design

expected by end of 2017 • Residential development and car parking site adjacent to Winwick Street

progressing

Cabinet Works • Completion is imminent

Warrington Waterfront – Centre Park Link

• Acquisition of land to enable development nearing completion • Planning Permissions granted for the site remediation and highways

construction • Agreement reached on rights to cross the River Mersey

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Warrington Waterfront – Western Link • Preferred route selected and is out for public consultation

7.0 THE LOOK OF THE TOWN CENTRE 7.1 Warrington also an ambitious and well-established vision for its town centre. The

delivery of this vision is guided by the principles set out in the town centre masterplan and funded by a mix of public and private sector investment. This report has explored the changing town centre landscape and has summarised the progress that has been made in recent years and the emerging transformation.

7.2 Whilst the vision for the town centre is gradually being achieved, in terms of more

workers, an improved family friendly leisure offer and more residential accommodation, it is important that the way in which the town centre is managed remains central in our delivery plans.

7.3 In the last three years alone Warrington town centre has benefited from over

£160m worth of committed public and private sector investment. Earlier this year the Executive Board approved the refreshed town centre masterplan that re-establishes the transformation to come over the next 5 to 10 years.

7.4 During this time the Street Scene Services have been reconfigured to meet

challenging budget constraints. Footfall in the town centre is increasing as Golden Square continues to attract international brands and restaurants, despite the loss of Marks and Spencer and BHS, both of which occurred due to national corporate structural changes in each organisation, rather than as a reflection of the performance of Warrington town centre. The opening of the temporary market has seen a marked footfall increase and has been a noted commercial success.

7.5 The first two bullet points in section 5.3 of this report “To be known as an exciting, inspirational and safe place to work, live and visit” & “A clean and well maintained town centre” whilst being key factors in achieving the vision for Warrington town centre, will become increasingly important over the course of the next five years, as these are particularly important objectives to inward investors.

7.6 Having these key factors in mind, it is important that the Council explores policies that addresses specific issues that consequently provide a negative image of the town centre. These issues can range from overflowing and poorly managed private waste bins, parking encroachment to abandoned property from rough sleepers (e.g. sleeping bags) and excessive / aggressive street traders promoting either charitable or commercial offers.

8.0 CONCLUSIONS 8.1 Warrington Town Centre is experiencing a renaissance, reshaping the function of

the town centre, its core offers as retail and leisure destination and as a place to live and work. This regeneration led transformation has had a notable impact in the last 3 years, however regeneration on such a large-scale will take several years to deliver and the benefits to the town centre will be realised along similar timelines.

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8.2 In the meantime, members are invited to reflect on policies that may improve the

look of the Town Centre whilst the regeneration improvements are being delivered in the coming years.

Agenda item 6

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WARRINGTON BOROUGH COUNCIL SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY POLICY COMMITTEE Tuesday 3 October 2017 Report of the: Employment Development Team:

Warrington and Co – Steve Park

Report Authors: Jo Jackson

Contact Details: Email Address: jojackson@warrington.gov.uk

Telephone: 01925 442635

Ward Members:

All

TITLE OF REPORT: Employment Support Programme 1. PURPOSE OF THE REPORT 1.1 This report is to advise members of the current activities of employment support for

the people in Warrington, and actions in place to improve this offer and to reduce inequalities across the town as delivered by the Employment Development Team within Warrington and Co.

2. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

Employment Development Team – Warrington and Co. 2.1 The Employment Development Team (EDT) works in partnership with external

partners, including local voluntary/community bodies and other statutory organisations to deliver a total package of employment support projects – both employer-led (helping with recruitment drives, co-ordinating/hosting open days/interviews) and client-led (a tailored approach according to individual needs and preferences). Our menu of support will enable businesses to thrive ensuring future economic growth for the Warrington community as a whole, in addition to all residents including those from priority groups and target areas to improve their employability skills and ultimately gain employment. We negotiate with employers, including through the Local Planning Conditions and support them throughout the recruitment process into job opportunities. The Agreement covers job vacancies, guaranteed interviews, specific/bespoke training needs, skills update, Apprenticeships, Site Visits, Work Placements/Experience opportunities etc.

2.2 Pre-recruitment training and skills development: Bespoke or sector specific

employability skills training for local residents linked to guaranteed interviews with the employer.

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Recruitment: Support available for both large and small scale recruitment projects at no cost to the employer through a full partnership approach.

Apprenticeships: Advice and support available on apprenticeships and funding,

including the apprenticeship levy. Workforce development: Support and guidance on creating skills development

packages to suit the business needs. 2.3 Established, Chair and Secretariat two partnerships – both recognised and well

attended: TPN – Training Provider Network WESAG – Warrington Employment Skills Action Group 3. LOCAL JOBS AND SUPPLY CHAINS

Warrington is home to around 8,000 businesses employment 115,000 people. It was the fourth highest for job growth in the UK, and one of the few ‘cities’ in the country which economy improved during the second half of the last recession. We also work with local businesses to demonstrate how to be part of the thriving growth by:

Offering a free recruitment service from a range of partners including apprenticeships and links to skills and training opportunities.

Encouraging them to think local in terms of their staff, suppliers and partners.

Initiating local partnerships and supply chain. Finding win-wins for the mutual benefit of businesses and local residents. Understanding how to strengthen and build upon the local economy in order

to sustain current growth.

4. PROJECTS DELIVERED AND PROJECT-MANAGED BY EDT 4.1 Coastal Communities Fund – Sankey Canal: Linking The Locks

Warrington and Halton Borough Councils were successful in a joint bid for funding for a project covering the area of Fiddler’s Ferry and Sankey Canal. The bid was for a total grant of £654,000, of which £375,000 was capital funding to replace the bridge at Fiddler’s Ferry. The remainder of the grant funded two posts – one full and one part time, providing business engagement and marketing support within the designated area, with the aim of increasing employment opportunities, apprenticeships and volunteer projects. This is 100% funded until March 2018.

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4.2 Lifegoals – Interserve Learning and Employment Interserve secured funding for the SFA/ESF NEET programme for Cheshire and

Warrington LEP area to provide a comprehensive and quality service to young people. The focus is to support individuals who haven’t had the right opportunity, encouragement or funding to find a job, work experience or place on a training programme. The target group are those classed as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training). Warrington & Co’s Employment Development Team were successful in our bid to become a delivery partner across the Warrington area.

4.3 New Leaf – Building Better Opportunities (BBO)/ESF/GGHT

Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT), secured a £10.6million BBO grant to deliver the New Leaf project to support around 3,000 people in Warrington and Cheshire into work. Project “New Leaf” is designed to upskill local people, make them work ready, attractive to employers and better able to access the opportunities that the region offers as an economic and commercial hotspot. Warrington and Co’s Employment Development Team were successful in our bid to become the delivery partner for the Employer Engagement element of the programme and fully funded a part time post, in addition to part funding project management and co-ordinator roles. It is a project working with the furthest away from the job market and the hardest to reach.

4.4 BeInspired – Element 1: Cheshire East Council Cheshire East secured funding for the SFA/ESF Programme for Cheshire and

Warrington LEP area to provide a quality and comprehensive service to young people. The focus is to support individuals who haven’t had the encouragement to move into or move forward in an educational or apprenticeship opportunity. Warrington and Co’s Employment Development Team were successful in our bid to become a delivery partner for across the Warrington area.

4.5 BeInspired – Element 2: Cheshire East Council

Additional funding to link into, and add value to the Element 1 programme. To help young people into education, apprenticeships and traineeships to highlight career opportunities in key occupational sectors. This element will encourage stronger engagement between schools and employers in promoting career opportunities in the key sectors and to inform and inspire young people to make better informed choices about curriculum and careers options, and will include practical and project work in schools and colleges, visits to employers, work experience placements and careers events. This funding includes one full time and one part time role.

5. CONFIDENTIAL OR EXEMPT 5.1 This report is not confidential or exempt

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6. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

6.1 External funding has been secured through various ESF/SFA projects to fund the programmes being delivered through the Employment Development Team. Project Management and Administration/Finance costs are also claimed for a number of the projects, including four additional posts being 100% funded externally. We continue to seek external funding opportunities to continue with the good work being done and maintaining an excellent delivery partner track record.

7. RISK ASSESSMENT 7.1 Four of the six current ESF projects will run until 2018, with the other two ceasing

in 2019. These projects have all been match-funded by “Opt In” organisations: the Skills Funding Agency (SFA), the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and Big Lottery. Whilst Government has invited Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) to start gathering ideas for further ESF projects, no match funding will be available, meaning that project applicants will need to find 50% of total costs themselves. It is therefore unlikely that a similar range of European funded projects will run again.

7.2 Influencing behaviour change is not easy and managing individual expectations and aspiration within a diverse community that has pockets of deprivation is a challenge. Identifying where to target resources balanced against not creating dependency requires a good knowledge and analysis of data and need alongside community engagement and building on employer engagement.

8. EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY/EQUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT 8.1 This report on Employment Support considers geographical inequalities and life

chances broadly in Warrington. This is to be delivered in conjunction with the wider partnership efforts.

9. CONSULTATION 9.1 There has not been specific consultation on this report, however, multi partners

work together to secure funding opportunities and delivery. 10. RECOMMENDATIONS 10.1 This report is to advise members of the current measures of employment support

for people in Warrington, and actions in place to improve this into employment, and to reduce inequalities across the town.

11. CONTACTS

Jo Jackson – Employment Development Manager jojackson@warrington.gov.uk - 01925 442635 Andrea Warren – Finance and Projects Co-Ordinator Andrea.warren@warrington.gov.uk – 01925 442622

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Agenda item 7

WARRINGTON BOROUGH COUNCIL SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY POLICY COMMITTEE Tuesday 3 October 2017 Report of the: Chairman, Cllr S Parish

Supporting the Local Economy Committee Report Author: Julie Pickles, Democratic Services Officer Contact Details: Email Address:

jpickles@warrington.gov.uk Telephone: 01925 443212

Ward Members:

All Wards

TITLE OF REPORT: Work Programme & Monitoring of

Actions/Recommendations Supporting the Local Economy Policy Committee 2017/2018

1. PURPOSE

1.1 The purpose of the report is for the Committee to consider the work programme for the 2017/2018 municipal year and monitor the actions and recommendations arising from the Committee and its Working Groups.

2. CONFIDENTIAL OR EXEMPT 2.1 Not applicable

3. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

3.1 This paper details the 2017/18 work programme approved by the Policy Committee at its meeting in June 2017.

3.2 The items of the work programme are split into 2 main themes

• Economic and Regeneration • Flooding

Topics which overlap with other Policy Committee and also Scrutiny Committees have been identified and it has been suggested members of those committees are invited to attend the relevant meetings.

3.3 Appendix A - explains the purpose of all policy committees and policy themes

3.4 Appendix B – explains the national policy themes that are relevant to this committee

Agenda item 7

4. RISK ASSESSMENT 4.1 The following potential risks have been identified: recommendations not

accepted by Executive Board, or not acted upon; partners unwilling to engage; insufficient capacity within Directorates to support activity following service redesign; selection of inappropriate topics, which have minimal impact or are undeliverable; capacity within the work programme to deal with matters arising.

4.2 Risks are regularly monitored and managed by the Policy Committee Chairs

Forum, with the advice and support of relevant officers. Links with Partnerships and Performance are being strengthened and the delivery of the Work Programme is routinely monitored.

5. EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY/EQUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT 5.1 Democratic and Member Services has an up to date Equality Impact

Assessment for its policies and services. 5.2 Equalities issues relating to policies, services and other topics under scrutiny

are the responsibility of the individual Directorates concerned. However, the committee will monitor the compliance by Directorates on equality and diversity issues when carrying out its functions.

6. CONSULTATION 6.1 Not applicable

7. RECOMMENDATION 7.1 To approve the attached Work Programme 7.2 To note the content of Appendix A and Appendix B

Local Economy Work Programme 2017/18

Work Programme Topic

Purpose of the item

Link to National Policy & Local Context

Lead Officer

Date of Meeting

Theme – Economic & Regeneration Warrington Means Business

General Update at each meeting Local Context Steve Park Every meeting

Towns Infrastructure Plans

General Update at each meeting Local Context Steve Park / David Boyer

Every meeting

Strategic Transport

General Update at each meeting Transport is a key part of a community’s infrastructure. This topic maybe of interest to the Building Stronger Communities Policy Committee

Local Context David Boyer Every meeting

Homes / Houses and Infrastructure

To make sure the numbers of houses around the town are in the right location. This topic links to the Building Stronger Communities Policy Committee which is considering the Local Plan in September 2017.

LDP - Consultation Steve Park 3 October 2017 &

27 March 2018

The Look of the Town Centre

Item sent from Cllr D Price Local Context D Boyer / Steve Park

3 October 2017 &

27 March 2018 Transport for the North

Strategic Development National Policy David Boyer 22 November 2017

Airports and Ports

Look at strategic development and local transport offers

National Policy David Boyer 22 November 2017

Skills Gaps and Barriers

Annual Report to Committee This topic links to the Building Stronger Communities Policy Committee which will

Local Context Muna Abdul Aziz / Tim

Smith

30 January 2018

be This topic links to the Building Stronger Communities Policy Committee which is considering social mobility in young people. It is recommended that this be delivered as a shared session

Theme – Flooding Flood Management

Update Report Local Context David Boyer 30 January 2018

Completed Work Programme Items 2017/18 Work Programme Topic

Purpose of the item

Outcome for Committee

Appendix A Policy Committee role and policy themes

Policy Committee Role and Policy Themes

Role of the Policy Committees

• Assists Council and Executive Board in developing, monitoring and reviewing the Council’s plans, policies and strategies. • Scrutinises decisions taken by Executive Board, Committees, Sub-Committees and Officers where appropriate. • Makes recommendations to Executive Board relevant to its area of activity The policy themes for each Policy Committee are listed below. Specific responsibilities for each Policy Committee which are contained within the terms of reference are also included

Building Stronger Communities Organisational Improvement & Development

Protecting the Most Vulnerable Supporting the Local Economy

Key Themes 1. All community infrastructure related topics.

2. All community safety related topics to include reduction of crime and victim support.

3. All Education and Skills related topics for adults and young people

1. All customer related topics 2. Workforce and HR 3. Corporate planning and new

ways of working

1. All health and wellbeing related topics including housing

2. Adult and Children’s Services including preventative and safeguarding related topics for vulnerable adults, children and young people.

3. All social inequality related topics

1. All economic and regeneration related topics

2. All leisure & cultural activity

related topics 3. Flood management

Specific Responsibilities

• The committee co-opts four people for the scrutiny of education matters

• This Committee shall exercise the review and scrutiny functions as the Council’s Statutory Crime and Disorder Committee for the purposes of s.19 of the Police & Justice Act 2006

- - The Committee shall exercise the review and scrutiny functions under the Localism Act 2012, in relation to the exercise of flood risk management functions affecting the area

Appendix B National Policy Themes

National Policy Themes relevant to this Committee This section contains details of key national policy themes relevant to the committee which could have an impact on the Council’s customers and the town.

Caveat – This document was written prior to the General Election on 8 June 2017. All references to Government policies and consultations relate to the previous Government. These are subject to change with the formation of a new Government after 8June 2017.

Economic and Regeneration • Department of Transport (DOT) works with agencies and partners to support the

transport network and plan and invest in in transport infrastructure to keep the UK on the move. In summary it; o provides policy, guidance, and funding to English local authorities to help

them run and maintain their road networks, improve passenger and freight travel, and develop new major transport schemes

o investing in, maintaining and operating around 4,300 miles of the motorway and trunk road network in England through Highways England

o setting the strategic direction for the rail industry in England and Wales – funding investment in infrastructure through Network Rail, awarding and managing rail franchises, and regulating rail fares

o improving English bus services through funding and regulation o working to make our roads less congested and polluted by promoting lower

carbon transport, including cycling and walking o encouraging the use of new technology such as smart ticketing and low

carbon vehicles o maintaining high standards of safety and security in transport o supporting the maritime sector by producing the overall strategy and planning

policy for • HS2: High Speed Rail – Government information on the development of HS2. • Road Safety - Government briefings on initiatives to improve road safety and

prevent deaths and serious injuries. Initiatives include improving driver skills, knowledge and attitudes through campaigns such as Think! The Government aims to ensure that drivers and vehicles are licensed and safe, and bringing in laws to make roads safer.

• Road network and Traffic – This is a briefing which sets out a long-term funding

programme to create smooth, smart and sustainable roads. The funding aims to ensure that highways work is properly managed, and that parking enforcement on local roads is fair and effective.

• Highways England - Highways England is the government company charged with

operating, maintaining and improving England’s motorways and major A roads. It does not manage all roads in Britain: local roads are managed by the relevant local authority. The company is responsible for motorways and major (trunk) roads in England totalling. around 4,300 miles.

Appendix B National Policy Themes

While this represents only 2 per cent of all roads in England by length, these roads carry a third of all traffic by mileage and two thirds of all heavy goods traffic. Highways England will deliver £15 billion of investment on the road network as described in the Government’s Road Investment Strategy. This includes £11 billion of capital funding committed between 2015 and 2020 as set out in the company’s Strategic Business Plan.

• Transport for the North - Transport for the North (TfN) is transforming the transport

system of the North of England. By connecting the region with fast, frequent and reliable transport links we can drive economic growth to create a Northern Powerhouse.

• DEFRA – The purpose of DEFRA is to unleash the economic potential of food and farming, nature and the countryside, champion the environment and provide security against floods, animal and plant diseases and other hazards.

Leisure & Cultural Activities • Parks - The House of Commons and Local Government Select Committee

warned, earlier this month, that Britain's 27,000 parks and green spaces were at a "tipping point". Newcastle City Council has become the first local authority to consider handing over control of its public parks to a charitable trust. The National Trust has been advising the council, and a £237,500 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to develop the plans was awarded, under the condition that findings will be shared with other local authorities.

• Department for Culture, Media and Sports (DCMS) helps to drive growth, enrich lives and promote Britain abroad. Priorities include: growing the economy; connecting the UK; encouraging participation; sustaining excellence and promoting Britain; supporting our media; ensuring social responsibility.

• City for Culture - The Heritage Lottery Fund committed £3 million to the holder of

the UK City of Culture title from 2021 onwards to boost local heritage. To unlock the funds the successful bidder will need to demonstrate that their programme is underpinned by heritage and builds on existing investment by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

• Commonwealth Games 2022 - The Government is calling on UK cities interested

in hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games to work up plans for how they would stage the event. As at 17.5.17 Liverpool and Birmingham are the two remaining cities who are proceeding with bids to host the games. The Government will work with interested cities and the relevant Commonwealth Games Associations on a detailed assessment of whether Britain can step in to host the event in 2022 after it was announced last month that Durban in South Africa can no longer hold the games. This will include looking at important factors such as the economic benefits the Games could deliver to the UK – and to the host city or cities - through international trade, investment and tourism opportunities, and how potential host cities could benefit as well as the necessary infrastructure and major event delivery experience that potential host cities have.

Appendix B National Policy Themes

Flood Management • Climate Change - The government is working at home and abroad to adapt to the

effects of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by investing in low-carbon energy sources, improving fuel standards in cars and increasing energy efficiency wherever possible.

• Environment Agency is responsible for: regulating major industry and waste; treatment of contaminated land; water quality and resources; fisheries; inland river, estuary and harbour navigations; conservation and ecology. It is also responsible for managing the risk of flooding from main rivers, reservoirs, estuaries and the sea. Lead local flood authorities (LLFAs) are responsible for managing the risk of flooding from surface water, groundwater and ordinary watercourses and lead on community recovery. Priorities include: work with businesses and other organisations to manage the use of resources; increase the resilience of people, property and businesses to the risks of flooding and coastal erosion; protect and improving water, land and biodiversity; improve the way we work as a regulator to protect people and the environment and support sustainable growth.

• Flood Probability - This (BETA) service is for learning about a site location's flood probability as part of development planning. It provides a mapping service by postcode or location.

Ideas for consideration for the 2017/18 work programme This section contains details of current projects, initiatives and ideas for the 2017/18 work programme. There are a number of topics which are also relevant to other policy and scrutiny committees. These have been highlighted and it is suggested that invitations be forwarded to other committee members if these topics are selected for the work programme. This will help to prevent duplication and enable particular topics to be looked at from different angles.

Economic and Regeneration • Warrington Means Business Updates – key projects and milestones for

developments including (but not limited to) o Town Centre o Time Square Regeneration o Waterfront o Stadium Quarter o Omega

• Town Infrastructure Plans – updates on the current status of the town infrastructure plans

• Strategic Transport – updates on the latest work, key projects and milestones for developments including (but not limited to) the following. o Sustainable Transport o Highways England o Network Rail o HS2 o TfN (Transport for the North)

Appendix B National Policy Themes

o JSNA Transport and Air Quality chapter Transport forms a vital part of a communities infrastructure which is included in the remit of the Building Stronger Communities Policy Committee. It is suggested that an invitation be extended to members of this committee when transport related topics are discussed Leisure & Cultural Activities • Parks and Green Spaces /Green Flags.

• Warrington – City of Culture

Flood Management • Flood defence updates on current work being carried about the Environment

Agency, future work and areas of risk