Stirling Eye - Autumn 2007

Autumn 2007

Inside this issue Scottish Fashion Awards Stirling Castle plays host

Migrant workers in Stirling Stirling says witaj

Regular features Business space Economic facts Business profile Planning update Events

0845 277 7000

Contents

Welcome Welcome to the second edition of Stirling Eye. I hope that you found our first edition both informative and useful as a reference point for key news and statistics on Stirling’s local economy, and that this edition provides you with a further insight into the many exciting business developments taking place in the Stirling area. The feedback we have received on the first edition is encouraging and very welcome.

Enterprise Network update

3

Local companies shine in Business Awards

4

Fire! Fire!

4

Broadband services across Scotland 5 Filling the gap

5

Blowing up a storm

6

Freecycle

6

Offices with a Touch of culture

7

Economic and Environmental Sustainability

7

As a Council, we are aware that business

Business profile

8

In recent weeks the Government has

space is an issue and we and our partners

Business space developments

9

announced the outcome of its review of

are working to address this.

Planning overview

the enterprise network. The Government

As Stirling continues to grow new workers

wishes to ensure that Local Authorities

from across Europe are playing a vital role

are more engaged in local economic

Planning case study: 10 Stirling Medical Innovations (SMI)

in supporting economic growth and it is

development and as part of this it is

encouraging to see the positive approach

proposed that Local Authorities take on

that local businesses are taking to make

the management of the Business Gateway.

In parallel with this there is a desire for Local Authority services that impact on

A & M MacGregors Plant Hire highlights this

the business community to be brought

important issue.

in ensuring economic development of the area. In addition, we detail some of the new business space developments becoming available in the Stirling area.

10

Planner profile

11

Planning applications update

11

good use of the talent available to them

Migrant workers

12

from both home and abroad. Our story on

Polish workers driving competitiveness

12 13

Stirling Council is committed to sustainable

ESOL learning opportunities for migrant workers

development and in this edition we

Welcome! Witaj!

13

Stirling City health check

14

initiatives that can benefit your business,

Taxi marshals

14

your bottom line and the environment,

Zone A rentals

14

helping Stirling to be Scotland’s Heart.

City centre Chaplain

14

the Planning function in the Council and

Best Bar None

15

explore the way that it plays a pivotal role

LEADER+ in Lomond & rural Stirling – how did we do?

15

Preparations for a new LEADER programme

16

Filming Starting Over

16

Scottish Fashion Awards

17

Tourism grants

17

Economic facts

18

Baby boom

20

Forthcoming Events/Training

20

together with business development services, providing a single point of access to the business community. This would include services such as planning. Stirling Council looks forward to working with all our partners in taking this new and exciting agenda forward.

also look at a number of relevant environmental and resource efficiency

In this edition of Stirling Eye we examine

Councillor Colin O’Brien Executive Member – Corporate Resources and Economy Stirling Eye is compiled and produced by Stirling Council Economic Development Department.

If you have any interesting news with a business or economic focus, or would like to comment on this publication, please contact: Joëlle Russell Business Research & Intelligence Executive Environment Services Economic Strategy & Intelligence Stirling Council, Viewforth, Stirling FK8 2ET Tel: 01786 442778 Email: russelljl@stirling.gov.uk Web: www.stirling.gov.uk Printed on recycled paper.

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

If you need this information in large print, Braille, audio or in another language please contact 0845 277 7000 and quote reference number 7064.

Cover photo: Brigid McGaw, winner of Scottish Fashion Awards ‘Model of the Year’

Enterprise Network update The recent announcement on the review of the enterprise networks highlighted that the re-energised networks will be the firm foundation on which increased, sustainable economic growth is built in Scotland.

The Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, John Swinney, announced the Government’s proposals to overhaul the networks during a recent statement to Parliament. He said the changes would make Scottish Enterprise (SEn) and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE): l

More clearly focused on the goal of delivering sustainable economic growth

l

More responsive to the needs of businesses and the Scottish economy as a whole.

Central to the proposals are: l

A strategic forum involving Ministers, officials, SEn, HIE, and Visit Scotland to provide clear ministerial leadership and promote greater integration and collaboration.

l

The removal of Local Enterprise Companies in the SEn area to be replaced by five regional operations, each with their own business led regional advisory board. HIE will retain its board, a regional business panel will be set up for the area.

l

The transfer of responsibility for the provision of local business support through Business Gateway operations and local regeneration functions to local authorities.

l

An agenda of co-location of local enterprise staff alongside relevant local authority colleagues. We expect these reforms will mean that local businesses are able to reach a single point of access for advice on planning, licensing, business development and other services.

l

The transfer of most skills and training elements from the enterprise networks to a single skills body resulting from the merger of Careers Scotland and Learndirect Scotland. SEn and HIE will continue to deliver interventions that are specific to business growth, such as leadership development programmes.

l

The transfer into SEn – initially on a joint venture basis – of the business and innovation grant functions, such as Regional Selective Assistance, currently delivered by the Scottish Government

l

A requirement for the enterprise networks, VisitScotland and the skills body to look to share services where possible.

Mr Swinney said:

networks – re-energising them towards a shared goal with Government of

“

delivering increased and sustainable economic growth.”

out of these

“We will remove the unnecessary bureaucracy created by having 21 separate

reforms is that

LEC boards with 21 sets of governance arrangements. Instead, there will be six

local businesses

regional operations across Scotland.”

will be able to

“What we expect to achieve out of these reforms is that local businesses will be

reach a single

able to reach a single point of access for advice – planning, licensing, business

point of access

“The proposals we have set out in this statement will reinvigorate the enterprise

What we

expect to achieve

development and other services and that will be a great contrast to the pillar to

for advice – planning, licensing, business

post experience of many businesses today.”

development and other services and that

This will mean there are a number of changes likely in local business services

will be a great contrast to the pillar to post

provision in the months to come. The Government’s new economic development

experience of many businesses today.

strategy will provide further insight into how these proposals can best be delivered to ensure Scotland’s continued economic growth.

”

John Swinney, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Fire! Fire!

Are you prepared for the new Fire Safety legislation?

The Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 came into force on 2 August 2005 with the exception of Part 3 which introduces a new fire safety regime in Scotland and which came into force in October 2006.

This latest legislation includes requirements from existing law as well as specifying new elements (L to R) Colin Martin (Martin electrical Services), Vito Milazzo (Running Productions), John Rae (PSYBT Regional Chairman), Councillor Colin O’Brien, Matthew Shaw (Stirling Blind Company) with their Awards

that employers must comply with.

Local companies shine in Business Awards

Regulations 2006 defines the duties

The draft Fire Safety (Scotland) of employers, persons in control of premises and others in relation to: l

assessment (if you have 5 or

LOCAL entrepreneurs shone in the recent 2007 regional final of the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business

more employees)

Trust (PSYBT) and The Royal Bank of Scotland Business Awards.

Matthew Shaw (23), founder of the Stirling Blind

Council fully supports the development of start-

Company, scooped the runner-up prize of £300

up enterprises in Stirling by people of all ages

sponsored by Stirling Council. Matthew, from

and backgrounds. I am delighted that Stirling’s

Dunblane, set up his business in 2005 and in

performance for every 10,000 head of population

addition to having its own manufacturing unit

shows a much higher number of new starts than

in Stirling, he has since opened his first shop in

the Scottish average.”

Murray Place in the city and currently employs eight members of staff.

Committee of Scottish Clearing Bankers data for 2006 shows 54 start-ups per 10,000 head of

Stirling Council also sponsored two Certificates of

population in Stirling and 46 start-ups per 10,000

Merit and cash prizes of £150 each won by Vito

head of population in Scotland.

Milazzo and Andrew Mass of Running Productions in Stirling and Colin Martin of Martin Electrical Services, also in Stirling.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, PSYBT regional

The top prize went to Michael Docherty, from

who are creating wealth, and who are making

Larbert, founder of MD Plumbing and Heating,

a positive contribution to their local community

who won the 2007 regional final of the (PSYBT)

with this business award, is a privilege for all of

and The Royal Bank of Scotland Business Awards.

us involved and a great inspiration to others. We

Michael walked away with a top business award

wish them well in the finals.”

and cash boost of £600.

The ceremony took place at Callender House,

Stirling Council’s Executive Member with

Callender Park in Falkirk, which was attended

responsibility for Economy, Councillor Colin

and supported by The Royal Bank of Scotland.

O’Brien who was at the ceremony, said: “I’m

contribute greatly to the economic growth of the

For further information contact: PSYBT Regional Manager, Alison Gee Tel no. 01324 483300 or 07810625329 or Margaret Gibson and Louise Cochran at PSYBT head office, Tel no. 0141 248 4999.

area. As a partner in the Business Gateway this

Visit the PSYBT website at www.psybt.org.uk

delighted that Stirling businesses have done so well in this year’s awards. These young entrepreneurs are a credit to Stirling and

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

l

Putting in place necessary fire safety measures

l

Reviewing your fire risk assessment.

l

Your duty in respect of young persons

l l

Your duty to record information What information must be recorded

l

Provision of equipment for detecting and fighting fire

manager, Alison Gee said, “To recognise and celebrate the success of young entrepreneurs

Carrying out a fire risk

l

Provision of warning equipment

l

Means of escape

l

Your duty to provide information to employees & visitors

l

Training Employees

The Full Act, including Part 3 can be viewed at www.opsi. gov.uk/legislation/scotland/ acts2005/53 Your local Fire Service is also available for help, advice and guidance: www.centralscotlandfire.gov.uk

Broadband services across Scotland A scheme to extend broadband services to those who want them but cannot get connected was announced recently.

Individuals and businesses have been asked to come forward so

The Scottish Government decided on an open procurement approach

that the so-called ‘reach’ problem where people cannot access

to deliver affordable and sustainable broadband services after three

broadband technology, mainly due to the distance from ADSL-

phases of work - research on broadband reach, discussions with BT

enabled telephone exchanges, can be addressed. An open

(which illustrated the incumbent had no offering to deliver feasible

procurement process, worth up to £3.5 million, has now started

solutions to reach) and more recently, consultation with the wider

to find a suitable provider(s) to deliver services with the aim of

industry and public on alternative options.

ensuring people wanting broadband in rural areas are provided with access.

Due to data protection issues on information held by telecom operators, the Scottish Government can only attempt to resolve

Enterprise Minister Jim Mather said: “As many individuals and

access problems which are notified directly. Ideally, individuals

businesses in Scotland as possible should have broadband access.”

should have attempted to secure services from existing suppliers by

“In this 21st century, broadband is an increasingly vital tool for business and is now used by more and more households as a standard utility. By extending the availability of affordable broadband, we can help create a wealthier and fairer Scotland.”

Anyone with access problems should inform the Scottish Government by the end of 2007 (if they have not already done so) to enable connectivity work to begin in 2008.

Scotland currently has over 99 per cent broadband availability.

ordering broadband and requesting that an engineer tests their line - as this is the only way to confirm whether broadband is actually available or not.

If you have not already notified the Government of your access problem you can register by 18 January 2008, either through filling in the form online at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/People/ BroadbandforScotland/Register

However, the Scottish Government has been monitoring continuing

or alternatively by writing to the Telecoms Policy Team at

access difficulties and aims to satisfy the unmet demand for

the Scottish Government, Meridian Court, 5 Cadogan Street,

affordable broadband.

Glasgow, G2 6AT.

Filling the gap Developed from the successful Employment Connections and EmployAbility Stirling projects, Stirling Council’s Employability Service is geared to help employers fill vacancies across the local labour market.

The Employability Service supports a diverse range of local people who are capable of and want to work but have struggled to access or sustain employment. Their clients are people who have experienced barriers to employment and wish to, or have, overcome them.

Employers can tap into a range of services comprising a full recruitment service, bespoke training solutions, disability awareness training, information, advice and support for employees struggling within the workplace.

As part of their future service provision, the Employability Service wish to consult local businesses regarding support and assistance that will help them. From the responses and feedback they will look at incorporating the requests of businesses with their future support to both clients and local business.

The service has a dedicated Employer Liaison Officer, Gordon Wright, who can be contacted to meet and discuss future support for business through the Employability Service.

For more information, please contact Gordon on 01786 442866 or wrightg@stirling.gov.uk

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Blowing up a storm Shetland Wind Power Ltd have breezed into Stirling and created quite a stir in the local economy with the opening of a new distribution and training centre at Bandeath Industrial Estate, which achieved turnover of £0.5 million in its first month. The company is involved in provision of solutions for small-scale domestic renewables. The business also runs training courses for wind turbine installers.

Michael Anderson, Company Director, set up Shetland Wind Power around 14 years ago after examining his own household energy consumption and installing a Proven

Proven small-scale turbine in the snow

domestic wind turbine. He then began distributing and installing Proven Energy products for other people. The company has since grown and now trains installers for other Proven

decision to base the new distribution centre in Stirling was made

Energy installation companies. Recent training at the Bandeath

due to Stirling’s central location for distribution across Scotland and

premises has involved people from Nigeria, America, Spain and

the rest of the UK and Ireland. It is easier to access areas such as

England. Michael reports that there has been a marked increase

the Western Isles from Stirling and all major hauliers pass through

in demand for small-scale renewables – in the past demand was

the area. Two full time members of staff are currently employed at

driven by environmentalists, whereas demand these days is

the Bandeath premises, with plans to take on three additional full

wider, driven by increased awareness of the financial benefits of

time and one part time worker in the near future.

renewables.

Michael Anderson reports: “I have always been dedicated to

The Proven Energy products stocked by Shetland Wind Power Ltd

domestic and community scale renewable projects and my

are manufactured in Kilmarnock. However, Michael reports that the

company is not involved in large-scale commercial wind-farms. As well as wind turbines, we

Freecycle l

Does your business have equipment or furniture surplus to requirement?

l

Would you like to give surplus items away instead of sending them to landfill?

l

Is there something your business needs that another business might be throwing out?

also distribute and install a range of other small-scale renewables, including solar energy products.”

For further information on Shetland Wind Power Ltd or information on Proven

If so, the Freecycle Network could be the solution.

Energy products, please

Freecycle is a not-for-profit network that involves people giving and getting things for free in their local

contact 01950 431292, email

community. This involves the reuse of items which one business or person may no longer require – for

info@shetlandwindpower.

example it could be computer monitors, specialist equipment or even railway sleepers – avoiding reusable

co.uk or visit www.

items ending up in landfill. It is also about reducing the carbon associated with recycling, by reducing the

shetlandwindpower.co.uk

distance travelled when goods are exchanged. Membership is free and allows you to advertise unwanted items, or browse for free goods. It’s a bit like an on-line auction site, but the one main rule is that everything posted on the site must be free! You can even post a “wanted” ad to find something that your business needs.

After discovering that Stirling did not have a Freecycle group, David Jordan (who currently works as an Energy Management Engineer at Stirling University) set one up in 2006. David said, “It is pleasing for people to know they are doing their bit to tackle climate change by extending the life of unwanted goods. It also creates a sense of good feeling and community spirit when giving away items for nothing or receiving them at no cost”. The Stirling Freecycle group now enables businesses and residents in Stirling with surplus materials to give these to people in Stirling who need or could use them.

Freecycle is a global network made up of 4,110 groups worldwide and 3,843,000 members. Stirling’s Freecycle group has over 2,000 members and there are also groups in Clackmannanshire and Falkirk.

People are encouraged to use their local group to advertise unwanted items, to reduce the travel and carbon used when items are picked up.

To find out more about Freecycle or to join the network, please visit www.freecycle.org

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Did You Know?

Stirling is in the highest quartile of local authority districts in the UK in terms of industrial and commercial energy consumption per employee (kWh)? The average for Stirling in 2004 was 53,000 kWh per employee, compared with an average of 33,800 kWh per employee for Scotland as a whole (DTI, 2007).

Offices with a Touch of culture The transformation of an old country house laundry into modern offices is paying dividends at Touch Business Centre. Even before the conversion was complete, Punch Taverns snapped up the new offices to expand their operations in the Stirling area.

The new Laundry offices were officially opened on 14th September

by Stirling Provost Margaret Brisley and Touch Estate Owner Angus Watson (pictured). Susan Allen, Regional Operations Director (Scotland) Punch Taverns PLC said: “Punch Taverns is very pleased to be relocating to the new offices within the Touch Business Centre.”

Touch Business Centre is located within the grounds of the 15th century A-listed Touch House near Cambusbarron, Stirling. The sympathetic conversion of the old stable block and carriage houses into modern offices was completed in 2001 and has enjoyed high levels of occupancy ever since. Although Touch House itself is a family home, it is also available as a filming location and for corporate and private events.

Susan Allen, Punch Taverns, said: “I am delighted that by renting offices directly from the Estate, we can contribute in some small way to the upkeep of one of Scotland’s’ great historic houses.

Touch is a great place to work – never a dull moment not knowing

whether it’s Taggart or Rutger Hauer going past your window one morning!”

Stirling Council’s property search team has assisted Touch Business Centre to attract tenants as well as helping other businesses to track down suitable premises across Stirling. New tenants at Touch also include Spraydown Ltd, specialists in haulage industry product design and Ristol Ltd, rural property developers.

To find out more about Stirling Council’s property search team, please telephone 01786 442472, email property@stirling.gov.uk or access their free online property search facility at www.stirling.gov. uk/property For further information on Touch Business Centre or Touch House, please contact Touch Estate on 01786 448899 or email info@ touchestate.co.uk

Economic and Environmental Sustainability Over the years there has been a significant change to the business landscape with impact on the environment now heavily at the forefront of businesses strategic initiatives. the energy savings in money, kWh and carbon.

Loan Action Scotland is a scheme funded by the Scottish Executive and is an extremely cost-effective way of assisting SMEs to tackle their impact on climate change and become more energy efficient.

The scheme is essentially two pronged, on one hand it is helping to make Scottish businesses more viable and competitive and on the other it is helping towards the Government’s objective of reducing carbon emissions and slowing down climate change.

Companies receive a free energy audit which is carried out by an approved energy consultant. The audit makes recommendations for energy saving measures as well as detailed information on

The scheme also provides loans from £5,000 to £100,000 interest free that would be used to help SMEs implement measures that reduce their energy consumption, saving both money and CO2.

Since its inception Loan Action Scotland has spent over £3.2m helping SMEs in Scotland increase their profitability and reduce their environmental impact.

Last year alone the annual carbon reduction from projects undertaken through Loan Action Scotland was 735 tonnes.

With fuel costs and interest rates expected to rise again never has it been more prudent for SMEs to re-evaluate their utility costs and take steps to implement cost saving measures.

If you would like anymore information about the scheme,

then please do not hesitate to contact Chris Beaton from the Wise Group either by calling 0141 552 0799 or emailing Chris_Beaton@thewisegroup. co.uk Visit: www.eeac.co.uk/ loanactionscotland/index.htm Similar support for larger companies is available through: l

EnviroWise, a publicly funded programme which offers free advice and on-site visits to help companies and the public sector reduce use of energy, water and materials.

l

The Carbon Trust, a publicly funded organisation which offers larger companies interest free loans to provide capital to fund energy saving projects, as well as free advice, a publications library, grants for low carbon technologies and an Energy Efficiency Accreditation Scheme (EEAS).

STIRLING EYE

For more information on EnviroWise, please call 0800 585 794 or visit www.envirowise.gov.uk For more information on the Carbon Trust, please call 0800 085 2005, email customercentre@carbontrust.co.uk or visit www.carbontrust.co.uk The low carbon technology grants available through the Carbon Trust are for up to £250k to businesses and research institutions involved in projects to develop or commercialise technology with the potential to reduce UK carbon dioxide emissions. Dates for applications for the next round of Applied Research Grant funding, are: l

Autumn 2007: 15th October – 7th December

l

Winter 2008: 11th February – 3rd April.

Focus on the local economy

Business profile Wheels Cycling Centre Wheels Cycling Centre is a family run business near Callander, established by husband and wife team Mark and Janet Shimidzu 20 years ago. The business began life as a bike hire centre, hiring out mountain bikes which were something of a novelty then, and has since grown to provide a bike shop and hostel accommodation for up to 30 people.

The establishment of the Centre tied in nicely with the opening up of a number of new cycle tracks, including the Callander to Strathyre cycle route and tracks around Loch Venachar. The business quickly grew from 50 bikes for hire in its first year, to 150 bikes within five years.

EXPAND

private entrance, ensuite and self-catering

As the business grew, Janet and Mark managed to secure a 10-acre

facilities. Family rooms

site between Callander and Loch Venachar to expand the Centre,

have french doors out

“

and a grant from Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley to service the site.

onto the gardens and

7. Beautiful country. Mark

Following a year going through the planning system and a year of

all rooms have stunning

and Janet very welcoming

construction, the new centre opened in August 1997.

views of the Trossachs.

Mark and Janet knew from their experience with the cycling centre that the closure of many youth hostels in the 1980s had left a big need for accommodation for people visiting the Stirling area to partake in outdoor activities. When they set up the hostel side to their business, there were many Bed and Breakfast businesses in the area, but not many that were equipped for walkers and cyclists with muddy boots and rucksacks!

Recent feedback from guests includes comments that the hostel is the ‘best in the world’ and a visitor from Denver, Colorado who reports: “This is

Mark and Janet report that the addition of a new communal lounge to

This is a cyclists

dream. Five days of Route

and friendly. Room and beds very comfortable – facilities excellent!

the hostel four years ago

”

has added value to their accommodation offer and increased their involvement with the local community.

Several celebrations, ceilidhs and community events have been held in the room, in addition to the music nights put on by guests making use of the extensive range of musical instruments in the hostel, including the four pianos, violins, guitars and drum kit!

LOCAL

a cyclists dream. Five days of

Wheels Cycling Centre supports local business, with all supplies,

Route 7. Beautiful country. Mark

food and trade purchased locally in Callander where possible. Janet

and Janet very welcoming and

explains: “It’s like a barter system – I use the local dentist and the

friendly. Room and beds very

local dentist buys his new bike from us.” The business also provides

comfortable – facilities excellent!”

bikes and accommodation for clients of tour companies operating

The Centre currently employs four full time staff and offers

across the Stirling area, and sponsors the Stirling Bike Club and the recently established Callander Club, Squadra Porcini.

relatively luxurious hostel

If you would like to find out more about the Wheels Cycling

Mark & Janet Shimidzu, Wheels

accommodation, with all dorms

Centre, please contact Mark or Janet on 01877 331200, email

Cycling Centre

and rooms having their own

scotcycle@aol.com or visit http://www.trossachstryst.com

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Business space developments Despite a continuing tight commercial property market, there continues to be a healthy level of business space developments recently completed and/or underway in Stirling including:

Castle Business Park, Stirling Castle Business Park, developed by City of Stirling Business Parks Ltd, a joint venture between Stirling Council and the Valad Development Group (formerly Scarborough Development Group); is Stirling’s premier office location providing approximately 24,000 sq m

Castle Business Park

(263,000 sq ft) of quality, modern space in approximately 28 acres.

Three new office buildings designed by Michael Laird Architects

Castlecraig Business Park, Stirling

have been recently completed within the Park. Robertson House,

Only three small office suites remain for lease at the newly built

which extends to approximately 1,850 sq m (20,000 sq ft) has been

Castlecraig Business Park centrally located in Stirling.

occupied by the construction, development and services group, The

The Park is made up of three detached office pavilions (subdivided

Robertson Group as their new headquarters building.

With a quoting rental of £16 / sq ft the remaining new build space in Strathallan House and Glendevon House extending in total to approximately 3,383 sq m (54,500 sq ft) has already generated significant levels of interest to date.

To find out more, please visit www.castlebusinesspark.com or contact Lois Thoms of Stirling Ventures on 01786 442621, e-mail thomsl@stirling.gov.uk or Paula Fern of Jones Lang LaSalle on 0131 225 8344, email paula.fern@eu.jll.com or Mike Irvine of Montagu Evans on 0131 229 3800, email mike.irvine@montagu-evans.co.uk.

into suites) and extending in total to approximately 1,600 sq m (17,200 sq ft).

With lease or purchase tenure opportunities the Park has been successful in attracting a range of businesses including Scottish Southern Electric, Hanson Aggregates UK Ltd, CF Property Services and the MacFarlane Gray Group.

Quoting rate of rental on remaining suites from £12.50/sq ft to £13.30/sq ft.

For further information on remaining opportunities please visit www.shepherd.co.uk or contact Sandy Falconer of agents J & E

Springkerse Trade Park, Stirling Works are now

Shepherd on 01786 450438, e-mail sandy.falconer@shepherd.co.uk or visit www.g-s.co.uk or contact Andrew Peel of agents Graham and Sibbald on 01786 463111, e-mail apeel@g-s.co.uk

underway on this much needed centrally located,

Dunblane Business Park, Dunblane

speculative Trade

Gladman Developments have acquired a site of approximately 7.65 acres at Dunblane, part of the Old Barbush Quarry. Gladman propose

Park development

by Allan Water

Artist’s impression of Springkerse Trade Park

Developments which is scheduled for completion next year.

The development, when completed, will comprise eleven light industrial units with limited trade use extending in total to approximately 5,060 sq m (54,500 sq ft) together with delivery yards,

to make a planning application for a £17 million office development of approximately 9,100 sq m (98,000 sq ft). It is expected that office suites of approximately 209 sq m (2,250 sq ft) up to stand alone office buildings of 929 sq m (10,000 sq ft) will be provided. Gladman propose to call the development Dunblane Business Park.

customer parking and quality landscaping.

Greg Limb, Development Manager and Head of Gladman

Unit sizes from 280 sq m (3,000 sq ft) to 1,115 sq m (12,000 sq ft) are

Developments Scottish Office in Livingston said:

being provided with five units or 55% of space already ‘under offer’

“ As there is little speculative accommodation available for lease

reaffirming strong demand for quality, speculative space in Stirling.

or purchase, Dunblane Business Park will be a rare opportunity for

Rate of rental achieved on space is £7.50/sq ft.

business owners and investors to acquire smaller office units in the

For further information on remaining opportunities please visit

Stirling area. ”

www.collierscre.com or contact Bryce Stewart of agents, Colliers on

For further information please visit www.gladman.co.uk or contact

0131 240 7500, e-mail bryce.stewart@collierscre.co.uk

Greg Limb on 01506 602508, email g.limb@gladman.co.uk

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Planning overview

The planning system plays an important role in shaping and protecting the q

The Development Plan (comprising the Structure Plan and Local Plan) contains Stirling Council’s intentions for the development and use of land within its area. It addresses a wide range of issues, including housing, shopping, business, industry, transport, recreation and the natural heritage. The Plan contains policies and proposals and provides the main basis for the Council to assess applications for planning permission. Although plans do not have to be rigidly adhered to, they provide a firm basis for rational and consistent planning application decisions.

The Council’s Planning Department deals with around 1,000 planning applications each year for a wide range of developments.

It may be well-known that planning permission could be required for extensions and alterations to business premises but planning regulations and approval cover much more than this.

You may be unaware that you could also require permission if your building is listed, if it’s in a conservation area and, more importantly, if you want to place an advertising sign on your premises or change the use of the building. Planning permission can be required for many things and even covers satellite dishes and trees.

It’s always worth contacting the Planning Department before you carry out any work to your property. Arrange to have an informal discussion with a planning officer at the earliest opportunity to find out whether you need permission and what you need to do – their advice may save you time and money in the long run!

PLANNER Name: Dorothy Irvine

Planning case study: Stirling Medical Innovations (SMI)

Job Title: Planning Officer

Role: Assesses and determines plan and information to members of the

Key Areas of Expertise: Developm

Dorothy deals with urban and rural p

Stirling Council area, including applic

In the recent announcement on the review of the enterprise network, the Minister, John Swinney MSP, indicated that an expected outcome of the reforms was that local businesses would be able to reach a single point of access for advice on planning, licensing, business development and other services. The objective being to get these functions working more closely together.

Blairdrummond, Bridge of Allan, Dou

Staff Development: Dorothy is stu Edinburgh College of Art, University

Current Work Load: Dorothy deals

housing developments, to retail, tou

applications that she is dealing with

auction mart site, Stirling. The outlin SMI staff, Stirling

Stirling Council’s Planners already have considerable experience of working in partnership with colleagues in Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley (SEFV). A good example of this was the work done in securing Stirling Medical Innovations (SMI) new facility at Stirling University Innovation Park (SUIP) during 2005.

Despite the fact that the site was allocated for business use within the Draft Local Plan and the new

potentially a college and park & ride

Around 20-30% of the applications D

mostly for residential premises/deve

Dorothy deals with a range of issues

to the Kildean application and she re

facility would eventually bring many hundreds of high value jobs to Stirling, the process of obtaining

important. The Braes of Doune Wind

planning permission took time and considerable effort on the part of both the Council and SEFV.

of public objection, but mainly once

Like all applications consultation took place with the local community and other consultees, in this case Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Water and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

Submissions were also received from special interest groups like The Garden History Society. The site chosen at SUIP lies within a historic designed landscape as part of the Airthrey Estate and this was

concerned the impact the constructio

River Teith. Valid objections must be objections on this basis. The loss of for objecting.

of interest to SNH and the Society. Historic Scotland were particularly interested in ensuring that the

Members of the public, businesses, c

development would not detract from the Wallace Monument and the hill fort.

and email. Much of Dorothy’s workl

By negotiating with these consultees and SMI, the Planners managed to secure an amendment to

on board comments and negotiating

the development that was acceptable to all parties. By working closely and in partnership with SEFV,

to enquirers in relation to new busin

the Council was able to grant planning permission and SMI has rapidly become a key employer within

provided before applications are eve

Stirling’s local economy.

required for their proposals and they

10

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

quality of towns, cities and the countryside.

There is a wealth of useful information, including policies, help and advice, newsletters, information on recent planning applications and answers to frequently asked questions online at www.stirling.gov. uk/planning

Planning applications update A number of planning applications with a significant business focus have been submitted to Stirling Council and are still

If you are interested in applying for planning permission, please contact a member of the Planning team to discuss your proposals on 01786 442515, or e-mail planning@stirling.gov.uk

being considered, pending a decision. These include: l

An application by United Auctions/Elphinstone Land Ltd to erect a new livestock auction market and associated facilities (13,500 sq m auction mart, 1,500 sq m retail, 1,370 sq m office) on land to the North of Hill of Drip Farm.

R PROFILE

l

An application by Forrest Developments Ltd for a non-food retail development with associated access, servicing and car parking (6,970 sq m retail) in the Raploch area.

l

An application by Ogilvie Securities to develop an automotive recycling plant (5.0 Ha) at Bandeath Industrial Estate.

nning applications. Provides advice

l

public on development proposals.

develop class 4 offices and class 11 leisure buildings, associated roads, parking and landscape treatment (18,254 sq m office,

ment quality and control.

planning applications across the

cations for sites in Ardeonaig,

An application by R J M Developments (Scotland) Ltd to

1,644 sq m leisure) on land North West of Pirnhall services.

Dorothy Irvine, Planning Officer l

An application by City of Stirling Business Park Ltd to develop

une, Dunblane and Thornhill.

business space units (Class 4) and industrial units (Classes 5

udying for an Urban Design post-graduate qualification through the

and 6) including trade counter (7,897 sq m office, 7,617 sq m industrial/storage) on land at plots 13, 14 and 18, Craig Leith

of Edinburgh.

Road.

s with a large range of applications, from house extensions and new

urism, mixed use and business park developments. One of the largest

l

of business park, leisure/retail and residential (32,000 sq m

h currently is the application for a mixed-use development at the Kildean

converted office, 5.5 acres residential, 5.75 Ha leisure/retail,

ne planning is for a business park, hotel and leisure, housing and

22.5 acres business park) on land at Craigforth.

e.

Dorothy deals with are for commercial developments, with the remainder

An application by Prudential for a mixed use development

l

An application by City of Stirling Business Ltd and Elphinstone for a mixed use development comprising business park (Class

velopments.

4), housing (Class 9), hotel/leisure (Class 7), restaurant/pub,

s associated with planning applications. Flooding is a big issue in relation

retail and further education college (Class 10) on land at

eports that environmental issues are becoming increasingly more

Kildean Auction Mart (20,000 sq m housing, 17,000 sq m

dfarm also raised some environmental concerns, and was the subject

business park, 1,750 sq m retail).

it started to be built. Objections related to visual prominence but also

on phase would have on designated environmental sites, such as the

l

6 units; conversion of steading building to class 4, demolition

e made on planning grounds, and Dorothy’s role requires her to assess

of farmhouse and use of site for class 4 and construction of

view or affect on property prices are not considered to be valid reasons

consultees and interest groups contact Planning by mail, telephone

load involves trying to resolve issues between different parties, taking

g with developers to amend schemes. Dorothy also provides advice

An application by Mr T. Cox to construct 10 new class 4/class

new house and upgrading of existing access road at Manor Farm (1,824 sq m industrial, 900 sq m office), Blairlogie. l

An application by STEP for a class 1 (Convenience Superstore) with service area, car parking and landscaping (6,900 sq m retail) at Stirling Enterprise Park, Stirling.

ness start-ups, changing premises, signage, etc. A lot of this advice is

en submitted, and some enquirers find out that planning permission isn’t

y can go ahead without consent.

Planning schedules can be viewed at www.stirling.gov.uk/ index/services/planning/planningschedule.htm

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

11

Migrant workers

Polish workers driving competitiveness

SLIMS (a not-for-profit labour market intelligence company) report that recent growth in Scotland’s population has been due to increased levels of international in-migration. The accession of ten new countries into the EU in 2004 and two in 2007 has spurred levels of in-migration to the UK, and SLIMS report that this rise in population has helped to create local jobs as a result of increased demand for both public and private sector services. SLIMS indicate that the reverse would happen if the population were to decline,

The business hires out machines

two Polish workers and things

e.g. there would be local job losses.

and operatives all across the

snowballed from there. A. & M.

UK and enjoys clients such

MacGregors Polish workers

as the Forestry Commission,

now help with recruitment and

Scottish Water and Morrison

business has never been better.

Construction. The firm, which

Mr MacGregor reports that he

operates from the Bandeath

has received some criticism

Industrial Estate found itself

from individuals and even the

struggling to fill a number of

odd client over use of Polish

hard-to-fill vacancies around

workers, but that this has

3 years ago. Mr MacGregor

Recent analysis of WRS data by Stirling Council’s Research Team

mostly been due to a lack of

stated that “recruiting a quality

found that 290 WRS applicants were approved in the Stirling Council

understanding. He says, “the

workforce is a big challenge for

area between April 2006 and March 2007. The majority of migrant

benefits from having a quality

any construction business, we

workers are from Poland, summing 76% of approved applicants in

workforce are enormous”,

found ourselves in a position

the Stirling Council area. The next most common nationalities for

pointing out the contracts he

where people we relied on

migrant workers are Hungarian (9% of approved applicants) and

has won because site managers

were regularly not turning up

Slovakian (9% of approved applicants). 83% of approved applicants

have insisted that A. & M.

for work and not a lot was

between April 2006 and March 2007 were aged 18 – 34.

MacGregors machine drivers

being done when they did

are involved in their next

The majority of migrant workers in the Stirling Council area work in

turn up.” “We knew it wasn’t

contract. Also “all my workers

the Hospitality & Catering (49%) and Construction & Land sectors

the wages as we pay well, we

live and spend their money

(15%), and most earn between £5.35 and £7.99 per hour (65%).

just couldn’t get the quality of

around the Stirling area, this

Around three-quarters (74%) of migrant workers in the Stirling

worker this industry demands”.

can only be good for the local

Council area work between 35 and 40 hours per week.

At this time the business had no

economy”. A. & M. MacGregor

choice but to turn to an agency

Plant Hire is proud to be from

for recruitment – this led

Stirling and feel they are

A. & M. MacGregors’ to it’s first

putting something back in.

When migrant workers from most of the new EU member states (excludes Malta, Cyprus, Bulgaria and Romania) enter employment in the UK, they have to register with the Worker Registration Scheme (WRS) within their first month of paid employment. Workers are eligible to apply for a residence permit once they have been working 12 months without a break in the UK. Workers must reapply for WRS if they change job within their first 12 months of employment.

Employee profile

Founded in Stirling over 10yrs ago, A. & M. MacGregor Plant Hire employs a number of Polish workers among its 48 strong workforce in Stirling.

Rafal Parszcz is from the city of Czestochowa in Poland, and typical of many Polish workers who come to Scotland, is well qualified with a University degree in Physics and Computing. He came to work for A. & M. MacGregors in February 2006 after hearing about a job opportunity from a friend and now holds the position of Plant Manager and liaison officer for their Polish workers. At the time Rafal and his partner were working in different cities in Poland and had decided to look for work abroad so that they would be able to work and live in the same town or city. Now married, Rafal’s wife, who has a degree in Business Management, is working at Dunblane Hydro while she improves her English language skills.

Rafal stayed in a caravan for his first two weeks in Stirling, but was quickly able to secure a flat in Dunblane through the local paper.

He reports that A. & M. MacGregor’s Polish workers have been able to secure private rented accommodation fairly easily through the local papers and that existing workers provide new Polish workers with a good support network. A. & M. MacGregors provide their employees with vehicles, so travel to work isn’t an issue.

Rafal stated, “My wife and I enjoy living in Dunblane and like to visit Stirling at weekends to shop and go out”.

“The Polish community is growing all time – particularly in Stirling, Inverness and Edinburgh – and I am now able to buy Polish food and drink in some shops in Stirling”. Rafal is currently looking into putting together a Polish football team in Stirling, with several Polish colleagues at A. & M. MacGregors keen to take part.

12

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Rafal Parszcz - Plant Manager

ESOL learning opportunities for migrant workers Migrant workers in Stirling are making the most of free Sian Morgan - ESOL Tutor opportunities to improve their English language skills.

Working with a range of local employers, Stirling Council’s Adult Learning Team is providing flexible and tailored programmes to meet the needs of businesses, and to help migrant workers integrate successfully into the local community. Particularly in rural Stirling, this partnership approach is proving effective, with programmes running in several local businesses in and around Callander.

The Team’s classes, which are free, focus on people who have very basic skills in the English language, but for those who want to work towards qualifications, Forth Valley College Stirling Campus offers a range of other classes.

Other beginners classes are offered by the Adult Learning Team in the Cowane Centre, and by the Stirling School of English (a local voluntary organisation) in the Argyle Centre, both in Stirling.

As part of Stirling’s response to the Scottish Government’s national English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) strategy, all local providers, and those with an interest in ESOL, are working to implement a local action plan. The local action plan is aimed at increasing provision, improving the quality of programmes, and making sure that people are sign- posted to the most appropriate class for their needs. It is hoped that this will make it easier for people such as employers to tap into ESOL support for their employees.

For further information about ESOL support, please contact Lynne Gibbons (Stirling Council Service Manager - Adult Learning) on 01786 432360 / gibbonsla@stirling.gov.uk

Welcome! Witaj!

Stirling Council is also organising a number of road shows

Stirling’s Community Planning Partnership has produced a welcome

for migrant workers throughout the Council area, offering

pack for people who are new to the Stirling Council area. The

information and advice on money, health, housing,

pack provides new residents with information on their rights and

immigration and English classes.

responsibilities with regard to every day living, such as information

To find out more, please contact Margaret McKechnie on

on GP surgeries, schools, wages, driving, accommodation and English language classes.

The Welcome Pack was developed in response to concerns that some workers coming to Stirling from outside the UK have been subject to exploitation, such as being charged too much for accommodation or not getting the minimum wage from their employer. The pack is aimed at educating new residents about their rights (including the minimum wage), and how to access services, as well as providing information on their responsibilities as a resident in the Stirling Council area.

The pack has been distributed to GP surgeries, local offices, libraries, police stations and places of employment. An English and a Polish version of the Welcome Pack is available online at www.stirling.gov.

01786 432300. Road shows are planned for the following locations: l

Callander Road Show – 4th December 2007, Callander

Kirk Hall, South Church Street, Callander .

3.30 pm – 7.00 pm.

l

Bridge of Allan Road Show – February 2008,

date to be confirmed.

l

Balfron Road Show – February 2008, date to be

confirmed, McKlintock Hall, Balfron. 4 pm – 8 pm.

l

Tyndrum Road Show – February 2008, date to be

confirmed, Village Hall, Tyndrum. 4 pm – 8 pm.

l

Stirling Main Event – March 2008, date to be confirmed,

Lesser Albert Hall. 4 pm – 8 pm.

uk/index/life/migrantworkers.htm If you would like to request copies of the Welcome Pack, please contact Lesley Gallagher (Community Planning Manager, Stirling Council) on 01786 443184 or email gallagherl@stirling.gov.uk.

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

13

Stirling City health check Stirling Council and SEFV are undertaking research to provide up to date information on the health of Stirling City Centre. The study will follow guidance laid down by the Scottish Government in Scottish Planning Policy 8. The intention is to have a benchmark for the health of the area that can then be updated on a regular cycle to inform development plans and also to measure the impact of city developments on the core area. The city centre is the heart of the Stirling community and also a key economic driver, therefore understanding the position it holds in comparison to other urban areas in Scotland is vital to ensure steps can be taken to keep Regular health checks will help measure the benefit of significant

Stirling at the forefront of Scotland’s economic growth agenda.

infrastructure investment

Taxi marshals

City centre Chaplain

Taxi marshals will again steward taxi ranks in the city centre this festive season, so if you have a business night out planned, the marshals should help ensure that you get home from the taxi ranks quicker and safer.

Did you know that Stirling has its own City Centre Chaplain for the

This will be the fourth year that marshals have been used to ease congestion and manage the taxi queues. Following Stirling’s example, a number of towns and cities across Scotland now use taxi stewarding as an element of night time economy management. Police figures have shown that at the busy festive period, this initiative has almost eliminated anti social behaviour within the taxi rank areas and also reduced taxi waiting times.

City Centre, including support on personal issues of concern, work

business community? Douglas Wright took up post as City Centre Chaplain with the Rock Community Project in January 2006 and currently provides support to staff of businesses based in Stirling issues and provision of welfare support. He also provides staff with an opportunity to discuss Christian faith issues if they choose.

Douglas currently works from the Rock Community Project’s premises in Murray Place and visits over 80% of businesses in the Thistle’s Centre including big retailers such as Debenhams, Marks & Spencer and Primark, and smaller retailers including Tie Rack and Thorntons.

Douglas says: “I aim to be an asset to the business community by providing support and care to staff. I work with local managers to provide

Zone A rentals Ryden, one of the UK’s leading property consultants, report that Retail Zone A rental rates per sq.ft. in Stirling were £115 in April 2007. The chart below shows that Zone A rental rates in Stirling are high compared to surrounding towns such as Cumbernauld, Falkirk and Perth reflecting the desirability of Stirling as a retail location. However, retail rates are still competitive compared to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen.

care to their staff at a time which suits the business.”

Douglas reports that he has received good support from the Thistles Management Team and is looking to extend the Chaplaincy Service across the city centre. If you would like to find out more about the City Centre Chaplain and how to access flexible support and advice for your staff, please contact Douglas Wright on 07738929817, email chaplain@rockcommunityproject.org.uk or visit www. rockcommunityproject.org.uk

Retail Rent Index Zone A rate (£s) per sq. ft.

250 200 150 100 50 0 ee en ine uld rgh alkirk sgow rness Perth tirling rde rna Dund ferml dinbu F S Gla Inve Abe umbe E Dum C

Source: Ryden (2007)

14

STIRLING EYE

Douglas Wright, City Centre Chaplain, in the Thistles Centre

Focus on the local economy

Andrew Stalker (Manager) of Varsity and Cat Blair (formerly General Manager) and Craig Finney (Security Manager) of the Fubar receiving Best Bar None awards in 2006

LEADER+ funded Go Smile Outdoors – a marketing initiative for outdoor activity businesses

Best Bar None

LEADER+ in Lomond & rural Stirling – how did we do?

The LEADER+ Programme of European funding for this area is currently being

Best Bar None is a voluntary accreditation system

evaluated as part of the preparations for the new programme. However, Stirling

for city centre bars and night clubs. It was first

Eye has had a sneak preview at some of the findings so far…

adopted by Manchester and is now finding its way

December 2006 was the last date rural projects could apply for funding from the

into Scotland. Currently the six cities in Scotland and eighteen towns are promoting the award.

Best Bar None indicates that bars/clubs have taken basic steps to ensure customer safety, e.g.

Lomond & Rural Stirling LEADER+ Programme, although projects can continue to run until December 2007.

Over the period of the Programme (2002 to 2006), seventy-six innovative or pilot

implemented drugs policy, fire and safety, etc.

projects were awarded £940,000 between them.

Applications are currently being assessed by

The project awards ranged greatly in size of award, from £500 to £56,000, and in type

Police, Fire and Trading Standards officers. Bars and Clubs are measured against set criteria, and

of project. However, ‘Improving the Quality of Life in the Rural Area’ was the theme that spanned them all, and they all in some way contributed to the ‘connectivity’

following inspection the steering group decide

objectives of the programme in this area.

whether or not to award Best Bar None status.

The breakdown of project type was as follows:

Safer Cities Co-ordinator Peter Walker commented, “ The awards are aimed at avoiding an event such as the fire which destroyed many pubs and clubs in the Old Town of Edinburgh in December

Tourism based projects

£377,000

Natural heritage based projects

£205,000

Local community development projects

£194,000

Training based projects

£130,000

2002. By adopting the standards laid out in the

Cultural heritage based projects

£75,000

documents, you can be confident that award

Business plans/feasibility studies

£65,000

winners have the necessary policies on drug use,

ICT based projects

£58,000

Event based projects

£24,000

safety, customer service etc. in place. You will know if a city centre pub has this accreditation by the display of a plaque on the premises.

The track record for this area, and the wide range of rural development projects

We would like to roll this initiative out to areas

supported, puts this area in a strong position for a much larger bid for funding from

outside the city centre over time, but need to

the Scottish Government for the next LEADER programme…

establish it in the busiest night time economy area first, and establish it as best practice. ”

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

15

Preparations for a new LEADER programme Preparations are well under way for submitting a bid for a new LEADER programme for rural Forth Valley and the Lomond area of West Dunbartonshire. LEADER is a tried and tested model for funding grassroots or ‘bottom up’ innovative rural development.

“It’s a way of ensuring local people and local businesses have a say in how money is spent in rural areas,” said Anne-Michelle Ketteridge, Rural Affairs Executive at the Economic Development Department of Stirling Council. “It’s based on the previous EU Community Initiative called LEADER+ but is now being rolled out across the whole of rural Scotland.”

In order to qualify, areas are required to set up new Local Action Groups which represent community and business interests from the area, and have to prepare a local development strategy and business plan which will form their bid for money to be awarded

Sustainable Heritage Trust Workshop held in Doune, 21st September 2007

The four Councils taking part in the new bid have organised a series of community and business events to capture as wide a view as possible as to what should be included in the strategy, as only projects that fit within this agreed strategy will be able to be receive funding from the new six year programme. A website has also been set up to give more information and feed in comments from groups and individuals across the Forth Valley area www.fvl. org.uk

through the Scottish Rural Development Plan.

“Another way of getting involved in deciding what funding should

You may be interested to know that for LEADER purposes the

be spent on in this area, is to join the Local Action Group,” said

Scottish Government’s definition of ‘rural’ is settlements under

Anne-Michelle. “We will continue to look for new members,

10,000. This means that the whole of the Stirling Council area

particularly from the business and land management community”

outside the City of Stirling is now eligible.

Nomination forms are available from ketteridgea@stirling.gov.uk

Filming Starting Over Filming took place in August at a range of locations across Stirling for a film adaptation of ‘Starting Over’, a best selling novel by Scottish writer Robin Pilcher. The drama stars actor Rutger Hauer, well known for his roles in ‘The Hitcher’, ‘Blade Runner’ and ‘Sin City’ and also as the face of a 1980s Guinness advertising campaign.

Dundee born Robin Pilcher and his mother Rosamunde Pilcher, one of Britain’s all time best selling authors, are hugely popular in Germany. ‘Starting Over’ was filmed by Gate Televison Productions in English and will be shown on German TV at Christmas and then across Europe, including Britain, in 2008. The bulk of the filming was conducted at Touch House. Other recent filming at Touch has included

Suspect’. Filming for Starting Over also took place at a range of other locations across the Stirling Council area, including at sites near Plean and Doune.

Stirling Council Events and Film Liaison Executive, Caralin Montgomery-Cichy, is the main point of contact for film companies and people who want to register their properties as locations. Caralin helped the production company find appropriate sites across Stirling to film ‘Starting Over’, including identification of Touch House as an excellent location for the filming of the drama. If you would like to find out more about registering your property as a film or event location, please contact Caralin on 01786 442535 or email montgomerycc@stirling.gov.uk

filming for ‘Sea of Souls’, ‘Arthur Conan Doyle’, ‘Taggart’ and ‘CBBC

Recent Filming shotandcapture2007

The BBC was filming in Stirling City in September for a new documentary on Medieval Britain. Other recent filming in Stirling has also taken place for episodes of ‘Taggart’, ‘Robbie Coltrane’s Incredible Britain’ and the BBC1 comedy ‘Legit’.

Rutger Hauer in doorway to Touch House

16

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Neill Marshall’s latest blockbuster ‘Doomsday’ made use of a fabulous location in Doune during the summer (the director’s previous films include ‘Dog Soldiers’ and ‘The Descent’). ‘Doomsday’ is a futuristic action thriller that will be released early 2008. Filmed by Rouge Pictures and Crystal Sky Pictures, the film has been given the Hollywood treatment. Key stars in the film include Bob Hoskins and Malcolm McDowell (‘Clockwork Orange’, ‘If’ and ‘Heroes’).

Scottish Fashion Awards On Sunday 9th September 2007, Stirling Castle once again played host to the prestigious Scottish Fashion Awards. Present at the event were the cream of the Scottish Fashion industry and many celebrities such as actress Blythe Dunn (Taggart) and sports commentator, Alan Hansen.

This exciting and glamorous event was enjoyed not only by celebrities, dignitaries and Scotland’s fashion ‘glitterati’ but also particularly interested in the results of the ‘Retailer of the Year’ award, presented by Provost Margaret Brisley. The award was presented to Schuh, an innovative shoe company that has a branch in the Thistles Centre. Internacionale, another company that also has a branch in the Thistles Centre, was also nominated for this award.

Other awards in the ceremony - hosted by GMTV presenter Jenni Falconer - included ‘Scottish Fashion Icon’, awarded to Sharleen Spiteri of the group ‘Texas’ and Designer of the Year, which was awarded to the celebrated Scottish designer, Christopher Kane.

Provost Margaret Brisley said, “We were extremely happy to welcome this prestigious event to Stirling again. Stirling Castle provided the perfect dramatic backdrop to the awards and I hope that we can look forward to hosting many more high-profile events there in the future.”

Awards founder and producer Tessa Hartmann of the TFF Agency said, “The Scottish Fashion Awards celebrate the strong force of Scots who are contributing to the global fashion market. With the magnificent setting of Stirling Castle representing our heritage, fused with the 21st century vision of ‘Fashion Scotland’, it was truly a night to be remembered.”

As a sponsor of these presitgious awards, Stirling Council also worked to bring some of the glamour of the catwalk to the young people of Stirling through a schools’ competition. The competition was designed to highlight to them career opportunities available within the creative industries. Schools involved included Stirling High, St Modan’s High and Wallace High. The schools worked with designer Iona Crawford – one of the nominees for the Scottish Fashion Awards 2007 ‘New Talent’ award – and the eventual winner was Rosie Hastings (14) of Stirling High, with Gemma Southcott (14) of St Modan’s High winning second prize and Roishann McGuire (17) also of St Modan’s High winning third prize for their designs.

(L to R) Councillor Colin O’Brien, Provost Margaret Brisley, Rosie Hastings and Councillor Scott Farmer Scottish Fashion Awards 2007

by many representatives of the fashion retail industry, who were

Nominee for ‘Model of the Year’ Haley Bartlett wears winning design by Rosie Hastings of Stirling High School

Tourism grants TOURISM in the Stirling area is being given a boost in a bid to attract more visitors. Stirling Council’s Tourism, Marketing and Rural Development team is asking local tourist and business associations to apply for a grant from the Tourism Small Grant Scheme to support their tourism activities.

“Tourism is a vitally important industry to the Stirling area, employing approximately 10,000 people and bringing in over £280 million to the local economy every year, so it’s important that we support this sector,” said Stirling Council’s Executive Member with responsibility for Economy Councillor Colin O’Brien.

The Tourism Small Grant Scheme for 2007 – 2008 supports innovative tourism activities to encourage people to work together to increase visitor numbers and tourism revenue in the Stirling area.

Councillor O’Brien added: “Our district has so much to offer visitors from outstanding countryside, historic sites, great shopping and a vibrant city with superb hospitality. The Council is committed to supporting the tourism industry to deliver sustainable tourism-related schemes.”

For further details and an application form, please contact Jane Hutchings, Tourism Executive, on 01786 443265 (Thursday and Friday only) or email hutchingsj@stirling.gov.uk.

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

17

Economic facts Population and Households Figure 1: Population

Stirling 2000-2006 % Change 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Stirling Scotland

Total Population

86,160

86,200

86,150

86,370

86,370

86,930

87,810

1.9%

1.1%

Working Age Population

54,058

53,771

53,501

53,667

53,268

53,588

54,310

1.3%

2.3%

Total Number of Households

35,206

35,544

35,961

36,454

36,658

36,958

37,164

1.3%

2.3%

and

Households

Source: General Registry Office for Scotland.

Unemployment Rate

Employment Rate Figure 2: Employment Rate and Trends

Scotland

80 75

Figure 3: Unemployment Rate (as % of Working Age Population)

70 65 60

Stirling Scotland

4.0

Unemployment rate

Employment rate

Stirling

3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.0

55

August 2000 Source: Claimant Count (Nomis)

2000 2006 Source: Labour Force Survey / Annual Population Survey (Nomis)

August 2007

Growth in Number of Jobs Figure 4: Jobs Growth 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005

1999-2005 1999-2005 Change % Change

Stirling

40,000

5,500

Scotland

2,167,000 2,234,300 2,299,800 2,279,500 2,307,000 2,340,000 2,391,400 224,400

Source: Notes:

40,600

42,100

41,300

40,900

42,800

45,500*

14% 10%

Annual Business Inquiry (Nomis) * 2005 jobs figure for Stirling includes 700 life insurance jobs mis-classified by ABI as being in England instead of Stirling.

Enterprise Figure 5: New Business 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2002-2006 2002-2006

Change % Change Starts Stirling

449

534

460

452

474

25

5.6%

Scotland

18,518

21,468

20,808

21,383

23,468

4,950

26.7%

Source: The Committee of Scottish Clearing Bankers

Business Survival Rates

Stirling

Business Density

Stirling

Figure 6: 3 Year Business Survival Rates

Scotland

Figure 7: Number of VAT Registered Businesses per 10,000 Population

Scotland

18

75 70 65 60

1999 2002 Year business registered for VAT Source: Small Business Service

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

500

No. VAT Reg. business per 10,000 population

3 Year Survival Rate - %

80

400 300 200 100 0

2000 2006 Source: VAT Registrations and De-Registrations (Nomis)

VAT Registered Businesses Figure 8: VAT Registered Businesses in 2005 – Percentages based on stock of VAT registered businesses

VAT Registrations VAT De-registrations Stock at start of year

Stirling – Number

Stirling - %

Scotland - %

270 225 3,015

9.0% 7.5% -

9.0% 7.9% -

Source: VAT Registrations and De-Registrations (Nomis)

Industry

Occupational Distribution

Figure 9: Employment by Industrial Sector, Stirling, 2005

Figure 10: Occupational Distribution, Stirling, 2005/06

Employment

by Industrial Sector, %

Occupational Distribution of all those who are in Employment, %

Source: Annual Business Inquiry (Nomis)

Source: Annual Population Survey (Nomis)

Qualifications % of working age population

Figure 11: % of the Working Age Population Qualified to SVQ Level 4+ (or equivalent) and % with No Qualifications 40 35 30

SVQ Level 4+

25

No qualifications

20 15 10 5 0

2000 Stirling 2000 Scotland Source: Labour Force Survey / Annual Population Survey (Nomis)

2006 Stirling

2006 Scotland

Earnings Figure 12: Average Gross Weekly Earnings

Average Gross Weekly Earnings – Residents – Stirling Average Gross Weekly Earnings – Residents – Scotland Average Gross Weekly Earnings – Workers Stirling Average Gross Weekly Earnings – Workers – Scotland

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2002-2006 % Change £329.1 £302.0 £282.2 £302.8

£350.3 £316.5 £287.5 £314.4

£337.4 £323.7 £320.6 £321.3

£323.0 £333.4 £317.2 £330.0

£362.2 £347.2 £334.5 £346.9

10.1% 15.0% 18.5% 14.6%

Source: Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (Nomis)

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

19

Forthcoming Events/Training December 2007 4th, 9.30am - 4.30pm – Stirling – Financial Record Keeping/Credit Control training course. Contact STEP: 01786 463416, email reception@stirling-enterprise.co.uk l 4th, 9am - 1pm – Stirling University Innovation Park – Jumpstart Your Business!

Practice creating new ideas and learn valuable principles for new product development. Contact: events@suip.co.uk, www.suip.co.uk/Events.aspx for information or to register. l 4th, 2 - 4.30pm – Stirling Municipal Buildings – Peak Oil & Carbon Emissions Session 1: Understanding and preparing for impacts to business and the public sector. Contact Karen Rattray: 01786 443284, email rattrayk@stirling.gov.uk l 4th, 7.30 - 9.30pm – Stirling Municipal Buildings – Peak Oil & Carbon Emissions Session 2: Understanding and preparing for impacts on community and lifestyles.

Contact Karen Rattray: 01786 443284, email rattrayk@stirling.gov.uk l 5th, 1.30 - 4.30pm – Alloa – Improve Your Search Engine Ranking training course.

Contact CETERIS: 01259 726430, email kmanson@ceteris.co.uk l 5th, from 7.30pm – Callander – Women in the Trossachs monthly meeting for women involved in enterprise. Topic for discussion will be local marketing opportunities. Contact Ali Park: 07912 853396. l 10th, 1.30 - 4.30pm – Falkirk – Improve Your Search Engine Ranking training course. Contact FEAT: 01324 665500, email mandyc@feat.org.uk l 12th, 9.30am - 4.30pm – Alloa – Setting Up Financial Systems/Credit Control training course. Contact CETERIS: 01259 726430, email kmanson@ceteris.co.uk l

Mazumba (baby rhino) and her mum

Baby boom Blairdrummond Safari & Adventure Park opened in 1970 and is well known as many people have fond memories of school trips to the park. However, many local people may not realise that it is a hugely successful tourism business attracting visitors from around the world. In the most recent VisitScotland figures (2006) it was the 5th most popular visitor attraction (with paid admission) in Scotland – just ahead of Stirling Castle in 6th place.

Building on the success of previous years, the park has announced several developments this year that highlight the investment they are making in both the animals and the infrastructure. In September they announced the birth of Mazumba, a baby White Rhino who was born on the 25th of August, and weighed in at seven stone! To accommodate the new baby rhino, and the large number of visitors who have flocked to see her, they have also completed the brand new rhino house, which allows the public unique access to the enclosure to see the rhinos up close.

This summer has also seen the park open “Lemur Land” and

January 2008 17th, 1 - 4.30pm – Alloa – Getting Real Results From Your Website training course.

Contact CETERIS: 01259 726430, email kmanson@ceteris.co.uk l 17th, from 7.30pm – The Lade Inn, Kilmahog, Nr Callander – Trossachs Enterprise Rural Mentoring Scheme (TERMS) Networking Event. Contact Alison Wilde: 07912853396, email alison.wilde@lochlomond-trossachs.org l 22nd, 9.30am - 4.30pm – Falkirk – Marketing & Advertising Your Business training course. Contact FEAT: 01324 665500, email mandyc@feat.org.uk l 23rd, 9.30am - 4.30pm – Stirling – Web Marketing training course. Contact STEP: 01786 463416, email reception@stirling-enterprise.co.uk l 25th, 1 - 5pm – Falkirk – Trading On-Line training course. Contact FEAT: 01324 665500, email mandyc@feat.org.uk l 28th, 6 - 9pm – Alloa – Financial Record Keeping / Credit Control training course.

Contact CETERIS: 01259 726430, email kmanson@ceteris.co.uk l 30th, 6 - 9pm – Alloa – Cash Flow training course. Contact CETERIS: 01259 726430, email kmanson@ceteris.co.uk l

February 2008 l

27th, 9am - 1pm – Stirling University Innovation Park – Protecting your IP including software in conjunction with UK Intellectual Property Office. Contact: events@suip. co.uk, www.suip.co.uk/Events.aspx for information or to register.

invest in new facilities such as a Pets Farm HQ, and a fleet of

Service Contacts

new mountain bikes for staff to get around the park.

l

The park has extended its season beyond the peak summer months to accommodate the ever increasing visitor numbers, and remained open until 22nd October this year. For more information on the park, recent developments and their education programme, please visit www.blairdrummond.com

Economic Strategy & Intelligence, Stirling Council – Hugh Lightbody, Tel: 01786 442593, email: lightbodyh@stirling.gov.uk l Tourism, Marketing & Rural Development, Stirling Council – Deborah Murray, Tel: 01786 442821, email: murrayd@stirling.gov.uk l City Centre Management, Stirling Council – Andy Kennedy, Tel: 01786 442534, email: kennedya2@stirling.gov.uk l Planning, Stirling Council – Peter Morgan, Tel: 01786 442914, email: morganp@stirling.gov.uk l Trading Standards, Stirling Council – Neil Chalmers, Tel: 01786 432170, email: chalmersn@stirling.gov.uk l Employability Service, Stirling Council – Gordon Wright, Tel: 01786 442866, email: wrightg@stirling.gov.uk l Adult Learning, Stirling Council – Lynne Gibbons, Tel: 01786 432360, email: gibbonsla@stirling.gov.uk

Useful Web Links Property Search Facility – www.stirling.gov.uk/property Stirling Council Business Pages – www.stirling.gov.uk/business l Stirling Business Directory – www.stirling.gov.uk/business/directory l Funding Search Facility - http://www.stirling.gov.uk/business/funding l l

Construction of new rhino enclosure

Stirling Council Environment Services, Viewforth, Stirling FK8 2ET phone: 0845 277 7000 email: info@stirling.gov.uk text: 0771 779 0001 web: stirling.gov.uk