Stirling Eye - Autumn/Winter 2009 by Stirling Council

Autumn/Winter 2009

Perth Bull Sales come to Stirling

Inside this issue...

Business Panel feature

Construction feature

2009 Annual Business Panel Survey underway

Interviews with Forth Construction, Ogilvie and Forth Plumbing & Electrical Services

Stirling Enterprise update Stirling Enterprise provide an update on business activity

Business space Expansion of Manor Business Park, new Business Space Strategy

Business profile Database Design & Development (d3) Ltd

0845 277 7000

Contents

Welcome Our cover story is on the prestigious Perth Bull Sales coming to Stirling. This is a fantastic win for Stirling, bringing around 8,000 additional visitors to the city this October and even more to the main Bull Sales in February. The new Stirling Agricultural Centre is a fantastic development for the city and I also look forward to the completion of Forth Valley College’s new Stirling Campus on the site of the old auction market at Kildean.

Local business news

Business profile - Database Design & Development (d³) Ltd

Provision of work-orientated language skills

Dataspace Scotland launch new data backup service

30 second interview

Stirling Business Panel

Special feature - Stirling Enterprise Update

Business space developments

Sector feature - Construction

Mugdock Makkers search for hidden talent

It is pleasing to note that Stirling Enterprise, who deliver Business Gateway services across the Council area, has reported that business start ups remain buoyant, despite a declining national trend. High levels of interest in business starts and continuing business growth in the local area provide an indication of Stirling’s entrepreneurial sprit, which will help us in this period of economic recovery.

Invite from Glasgow Caledonian University to Technology Showcase

Old Town Cemeteries re-open after £1.7 million refurbishment

I would like to take this opportunity to encourage all businesses to complete the annual Stirling Business Panel Survey. The Council and partners Cover photo: will be paying particular attention to the results to help shape The Executive Team of United Auctions at the policy in 2010.

Stirling businesses support the arts

Our sector feature, this time on the construction industry, touches on how the recession has impacted upon local businesses. It is during these difficult times that free support available to businesses, such as through the Forth Construction Forum, becomes all the more valuable.

Councillor Scott Farmer Depute Leader of Council and Corporate Resources and Economy portfolio holder.

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

new Stirling Agricultural Centre – from left to right - Robin Tough, Joint Managing Director; Neil McLean, Group Managing Director; and, David Leggat MBE, Executive Chairman. For more information on the Stirling Agricultural Centre and the Perth Bull Sales, please see interview with Neil McLean on page 22 and article on the Perth Bull Sales on page 23. Photo taken by Jim Whyler, Whyler Photos, Back O’Hill Industrial Estate, Stirling.

Interview with Neil McLean, Group Joint Managing Director, United Auctions 22

Schedule for October Perth Bull Sales 23 Scottish Business Rates Deferral Scheme 2009/10

Local distillery tours launched

Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Rally of Scotland 2009 update

St Andrew’s Day (Homecoming Finale Weekend) update 25 At your service - Health and Safety

LEADER update feature

Hotel developments feature

Economic facts

2009 Autumn Legal Workshop Series 32 Forthcoming events/training

Focus on the local economy

Stirling Eye is compiled and produced by Stirling Council’s Economic Development Service. If you have any interesting news with a business or economic focus, or would like to comment on this publication, please contact: Laura Melville, Business Liaison Executive Economic Development, Economy, Employment and Youth Services, Stirling Council, Viewforth, Stirling FK8 2ET Tel: 01786 443028 Email: melvillel@stirling.gov.uk Web: www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye Printed on recycled paper.

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Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Stirling businesses support Local business news “Kiltimanjaro” Going back to school with Labels4Kids Scott Laurie of Integrated Finance Ltd (Bridge of Allan), John Henderson of Falburn Engineering Ltd (Plean) and Bill Cook of Scottish Enterprise

Stirling businessman Scott Laurie of Integrated Finance Limited (Bridge of Allan) enjoyed climbing Kilimanjaro in aid of the Aberlour Trust so much that he has decided to do it again! Scott has signed up for “Kiltimanjaro” which plans to get 100 kilts on top of Africa’s highest mountain in late September 2010. Scott said: “The whole trek was an incredible experience and I can’t wait to be up there with 99 other people in kilts.”

Ann-Maree Morrison with some of her Labels4Kids products

“Kiltimanjaro” is the brainchild of Bill Cook, based at Scottish Enterprise’s Stirling office, who will be climbing the mountain for the third time in 2010.

For the second year running

Joining this trip will not only be the adventure of a lifetime but will also help raise vital funds for the Stirling based Aberlour Child Care Trust.

nominated as one of ten UK

To join Scott and Bill on the 2010 expedition – go to www.kiltimanjaro.co.uk

Business Excellence Awards.

Labels4Kids has been finalists in the Dell Small

Labels4Kids was started by Stirling mother

Highland Cattle Society locate in Stirling

of three, Ann-Maree Morrison, who was tired of tracking down her boys’ lost property at

The Highland Cattle Society are pleased to have re-located from

school and play group.

Dumfries & Galloway to the Stirling Agricultural Centre, which

Ann-Maree has three

opened at the end of July. With the society having members from all over Britain

boys in school and is

and further afield, Stirling is a tremendous central location and their new office is

well used to the hassles

very easy to find. President, Andrew Kirkpatrick said: “The Society is pleased to

of labelling their clothes

be part of the new Agricultural Centre and looks forward to welcoming members

and kit in preparation

and visitors old and new.”

for another hectic year

www.highlandcattlesociety.com

at school, and has all the possible labelling

Busy summer for Stirling Consulting

solutions you can imagine. Launched in 2005, Labels4Kids supplies a range of labelling products, from waterproof vinyl microwave and dishwasher

Stirling Consulting has had a busy summer with expansion into an office in Forsyth Business Centre, Stirling and the achievement of an ISO9001:2000 award.

proof labels to clothing labels that stick

Formerly based in Alloa the company specialises in design, installation and planned maintenance of heating, ventilating, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems. The company is also accredited to undertake Air-Conditioning Inspections and in conjunction with an associate company Energi-Domain, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).

bags, bag tags and id bands.

on, iron on or sew on. Ann-Maree has also developed a line of personalised gym

Joanna Perkins, Director, said: “We are delighted to have achieved ISO9001:2000 in recognition of the service which we provide. Stirling is an excellent central location for expanding our client base here in Scotland.”

Ann-Maree said: “I have found that during these difficult economic times, parents are spending a little on naming their children’s property rather than having to pay to replace lost property.” www.labels4kids.com

www.stirlingconsulting.com www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Local business news Sunny times for Stirling-based design company tensARC, a Stirling based design firm has been inundated with enquiries from across the UK and overseas after running a successful marketing campaign in national newspapers and journals. The company used the free publicity to generate interest in one of its new products – Freeform. Freeform is a lightweight stretched fabric

would be strong demand within the

“Launching a new product is expensive if

sail for interior use. The sails come in a

commercial and public sectors but hadn’t

you rely only on advertising. We’ve been

variety of shapes and sizes and can be

fully appreciated how many homeowners

doing what we can to gain exposure in

used to mask ceilings, zone or screen

would also want the sails. There are a

less costly ways, and investing time in

open plan areas, reflect artificial light and

lot of people out there who have been

media activities has paid off. The Sunday

control solar heat and glare. They can also

looking for an alternative to blinds

Times coverage, in particular, generated

be used simply as decorative features.

for controlling heat and glare in their

hundreds of enquiries, including ones from

Keith Wilkinson, tensARC’s Creative

conservatories and Freeform provides it.”

America, Europe and elsewhere.” www.tensarc.co.uk

Director said: “We anticipated that there

Join LETI and grow your tourism business

Providing services to corporate giants

The Loch Earn Tourism Initiative (LETI), is an active community of local business owners who work together to promote tourism services in the four villages surrounding Loch Earn; Strathyre, Balquhidder, Lochearnhead and St Fillans. Members typically provide holiday accommodation, hospitality and retail services.

Developing IT Ltd recently completed a major project in conjunction with

Kim Proven who runs Little Briar Cottage, a self-catering business in Lochearnhead commented: “The group is currently looking for new members. It’s a great way of attracting new business and sharing best practice and only costs £40 per year per business.” LETl’s website www.robroycountry.com promotes local services via member pages, area information, photos, links, events and blogs. Volunteers meet regularly to enhance, publicise and optimise its on-line presence and discuss areas of collaboration.

local communications training organisation Taleka Ltd, for financial services giant Lloyds TSB.

Having worked with major Energy providers, small local businesses and large financial technology organisations, this contract represents

The system developed is a data base driven bespoke software application to enable data gathering to be carried out by Lloyds TSB telephone handset rollout. Developing IT is a software and support company based at Stirling Enterprise Park.

In-toto Contracts

The company was established in 2004 and

The Callander office of In-toto Contracts has

and a range of innovative IT solutions to

relocated and is now operating alongside the

For further information, email kim. proven@btinternet.com or phone 01567 830 443.

accessories to the housing market.

STIRLING EYE

business.

site representatives for their new 38,000

Members aim to offer the best service and experience to visitors encouraging repeat visits and word of mouth recommendations.

another coup for the emergent Stirling

In-toto retail studio in King Street, Stirling. In-toto specialises in design, supply and installation of kitchen cabinets, appliances and www.intotocontracts.co.uk

Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

offers software development, IT support help organisations streamline processes and improve business efficiency in ever competitive markets. In just four years of trading the company has officially reached the highest level of competency and expertise with Microsoft - the Microsoft Gold Partnership. www.developingit.com

A new head for The Write People Having been with The Write People for ten years, senior designer, Karen Nisbet purchased the company in May from previous owners John and

SMI target veterinary diagnostic market

Lorraine Brownbill. The transition of ownership has been smooth, with the news being well received by their existing clients, all of whom have continued to use their services. The design team of Susan, Rachael and Jill has remained unchanged and their support and hard work over the past months has ensured consistent customer service and high standard of work.

Stirling Medical Innovations Limited

Karen is enthusiastic about the future challenges of running her own agency and, with a

(SMI) recently supported a successful

wealth of experience and colleagues who are as passionate about design as herself, she is

ten-week veterinary feasibility study.

certain that the foundations are in place to grow the business and build on its success.

The study tested the potential of using

Karen said: “Our goal is to not only fulfil clients’ expectations but also leave them feeling

an SMI diagnostic platform for the

we have provided an experience that sets us apart from our competition and that they have

veterinary market. Originally developed

chosen the right company…The Write People.”

for ‘at home’ monitoring of key cardiac

www.thewritepeople.co.uk

conditions in humans, the results of the study found that the platform can be used successfully in conjunction with key veterinary applications. As the platform is light and portable, the study demonstrated convincingly the accuracy of the equipment when used for diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory diseases in dogs and onfarm testing of cattle for the bovine viral

New chapter for The House of Commas Following the recent sale of The Write People – the design studio they set up 21 years ago – John and Lorraine Brownbill are concentrating

diarrhoea virus.

on developing their other business,

David Lang, Managing Director of

TWP Publishing Ltd.

SMI, said: “Seeing the ease of use and flexibility of our platform in these tests is really encouraging and I have been impressed by the quality and exciting work of the veterinary research

The company has been re-named and re-branded The House of Commas Ltd to reflect the expansion of its core publishing activity to include copywriting, editing and ‘creative thinking’ – devising themes, words

providers in this area. The platform

and images for marketing materials and

and technology we have developed

campaigns.

with ITI may, in addition to the human diagnostic opportunities that we are exploring, prove to have significant applications in the veterinary, food,

Royal Mail – Stirling’s to the 123,000 homes with an FK postcode. Lorraine Brownbill, Director, commented: “The Write People was a huge part of our

Since 2001, Lorraine and John have published the increasingly familiar Stirling Summer and Festive Guides and similar guides for Perth and Dundee. Containing

drink and environmental testing areas.”

local events, entertainment, shopping, food

www.stirlingmedical.com

and drink choices and leisure opportunities, www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

the guides are delivered door to door by

lives but now The House of Commas gives us the opportunity to use our other skills and focus on the successful Summer and Festive Guides.” www.thehouseofcommas.co.uk

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Local business news Bag yourself a motor Stirling car dealers are making the most of the Government’s car scrappage scheme by offering motorists excellent savings on new cars. Through the scrappage scheme, people can receive a standard scrappage allowance of £2,000 for their old car up until March 2010, provided it is more than 10 years old. To qualify for the scheme, the old car must meet certain criteria:

John Brown Butchers in partnership with Dobbies

Be a car or small van weighing up to 3,500 kg

Be first registered in the UK on or before 31 August 1999

Be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency in your name

Have been registered to you continuously for 12 calendar months before the order date

Buchlyvie butchers John Brown has built

scheme is allowing motorists to buy themselves a bargain. For example, SEAT doubled the

up a unique partnership with Dobbies

scrappage allowance to more than £4,000 on a number of their most popular models during

Garden Centre over the last four years.

September.”

After forming a successful supply chain

“We are able to offer the scrappage scheme across our SEAT, FIAT, Land Rover and MG

with Dobbies Stirling Garden Centre, which

dealerships. It is now possible to buy a brand new Fiat Panda 1.1 Active Eco for as little as

opened in 2005, owner John McKay was

£4994 using the scrappage allowance.”

of the new vehicle l

Have a UK address on the registration certificate (V5C)

Have a current MOT test certificate before date of order for the new vehicle

Archie Morrison, a Director of Morrisons of Stirling, Whins of Milton, said: “The scrappage

asked if he wished to open a butchers shop within the Milngavie Dobbies Centre. Leaping at the chance, the butchers shop opened within the custom-built food hall in 2006, selling everything from locally sourced fillet steak to square sausage. Following the success of the Milngavie outlet, John opened another butcher outlet at Dobbies Stirling Centre late last year. John said: “The last four years have been a bit of a whirlwind, moving from success to success. I am extremely grateful to Dobbies for the fantastic opportunities that have allowed me to expand my business, promoting quality local produce sourced

How to access world class fishing Stirling Council owns the fishing rights for salmon and sea trout on the River Forth between Cambuskenneth and Craigforth and on the River Teith at Callander. The Council’s policy is to offer fishing at a price that can be afforded at all levels and with annual catch returns in excess of 1,000 for salmon and several hundred for sea trout, it is excellent value for money. Stirling Council is looking to promote its fisheries alongside local business and is exploring ways to offer access to their rivers in the form of corporate hospitality and sponsored competitions. If your business is interested in accessing the rivers for clients or finding out more about sponsorship of major competitions, please contact Stirling Council’s Fisheries Officer, David Jones on 01786 442932.

from Caledonian Marts Stirling and United Auctions Stirling.” “I am also thankful for funding I received from Stirling Council which enabled me to buy some of the equipment required to initially start the supply chain with Dobbies back in 2005.”

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Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Denvir celebrates success

Local business news Business welcome… Body and Sole Healthcare A new multi-disciplinary healthcare clinic, including chiropody. The business recently located in Wallace House, Stirling. Tel: 01786 358252 www.bodyandsolehealthcare.com

Euro Search & Selection Ltd Euro Search & Selection Ltd has opened a new office in Stirling Business Centre. The company is an international recruiter for the oil, gas and energy sectors with offices worldwide. Tel: 0845 869 9803 www.eurosearch.net

Fasco

Catriona Tytler, Experiential Director at Denvir and Lynne Roxburgh, Scottish Marketing Manager for Tesco celebrate their Event Excellence award

Stirling based brands agency Denvir is celebrating a number of successes, despite the recession. Denvir was busy over the summer months working in partnership with luxury ice-cream makers Mackie’s of Scotland to launch a new range of Potato crisps. Mackie’s have joined forces with Taypack Ltd, one of the UK’s leading potato businesses to produce Scotland’s only home grown and manufactured premium crisp. Mackie’s approached Denvir to devise a strategy to launch the crisps. The

Fasco have opened a new Fasco Extra store in Springkerse Industrial Estate, Stirling. The store sells workwear, tools and safety gear. www.fasco.co.uk

The Highland Cattle Society The Highland Cattle Society recently located to the Stirling Agricultural Centre, Stirling. www.highlandcattlesociety.com

J & W Carpets A new trade unit specialising in carpets and accessories. J & W Carpets is located in the Trade Park, Springkerse, Stirling. Tel: 01786 470493 www.jwcarpets.com

Marvelus Productions Marvelus Productions have relocated their office and entire warehousing from Falkirk to Munro Road, Stirling. The company specialises in audio-visual, stage hire, entertainment, PA systems and roadshow hire. Tel: 0845 869 6152 www.marvelus.co.uk

strategy involved extensive market

Midas Contracts Limited

research, including blind tasting, which

campaign, ensuring a formidable Scottish

A construction management business specialising in shopfitting and internal fit-out services to the retail, office and leisure sectors. Midas Contracts are located in the Beta Centre, Stirling University Innovation Park. www.midascontracts.com

entry to the market.

The Money Shop

Denvir was also recently awarded the

A new outlet specialising in cheque cashing, payday loans, foreign exchange, pawn broking and bought gold. The shop is located on Barnton Street, Stirling. Tel: 01786 449110

saw Mackie’s come out on top. They also designed the branding, including packaging and corporate logos and developed the major consumer launch

‘Event Excellence’ accolade in a hotly contested category at the Marketing Society Scotland’s 2009 Star Awards. They were presented with the award for their ‘Enjoy the Taste of Scotland’ campaign on behalf of client, Tesco’s Scottish Office. www.denvirmarketing.com

Oldbaum Services Ltd Oldbaum Services work in the wind industry providing instruments and quality assurance on wind speed data. The business recently expanded from a home office to the Alpha Centre, Stirling University Innovation Park. Tel: 01786 469639 www.oldbaumservices.co.uk

Poundland Ltd A new single price retailer located in the Marches, Stirling Thistles Centre. www.poundland.co.uk

Revolution Hair & Beauty A new hair salon specialising in colours and extensions. The salon is located in Barnton Street, Stirling. Online booking system: www.myrevolution.co.uk. Tel: 01786 465573

RG Autotech A new garage specialising in vehicle service and repair. The business is located in Kings Court, Stirling. Tel: 01786 472321 www.rgautotech.co.uk

Spudz An exciting new deli-style take-away offering a wide range of healthy, fresh, locally sourced produce. Spudz is located in Murray Place, Stirling. www.spudzstirling.co.uk

Talking Mats Research & Development Centre Talking Mats is a low-tech communication framework that uses a mat with picture symbols to help people with a communication difficulty express their thoughts and feelings. The business recently expanded into a unit in Scion House, Stirling University Innovation Park. Tel: 01786 458105 www.talkingmats.com

Tunstall Healthcare (UK) Ltd A business supplying tele-health and telecare products to allow people to stay within their own home. The business relocated recently from Alloa, to Scion House, Stirling University Innovation Park.

If you have recently set up a business in the Stirling Council area and would like a mention in Stirling Eye or would like to report a business news story, contact Laura Melville on 01786 443028 or email melvillel@stirling.gov.uk

Business profile

Database Design & Development (d³) Ltd

Overview Database Design & Development (d³) Ltd is a new business delivering affordable customised database systems to the desktops of small to medium sized companies. The business is located in Stirling Enterprise Park.

The business idea Paul Amery, Director of d³, said: “I first became interested in databases in the 1980s after buying an Amstrad 1512 (with twin floppy disk drives!) and finding I could apply algebra to applications such as Lotus123 to organise and structure databases. I also studied Computing and Advanced Educational Studies and worked in enabling technologies at the University of Stirling for a number of years.” “Over time I realised that database design and delivery could

Uniqueness of product and pricing A Microsoft Access database can hold up to two billion records – this is more than sufficient for the needs of most businesses, small or large. As long as a business has Microsoft Office licence(s), the Access-based systems developed by d³ will run without the need for any large enterprise solutions. Paul continued: “We provide a complete service, with installation, training and a one year Service Maintenance Agreement (SMA) included free of charge. Our “local licensing” scheme is also unique in that once a set number of users is reached there are no additional costs.”

systems using Microsoft Access and found I could allow unlimited

d3 has modelled four database designs around typical business activities, with prices starting from £150:

access to anyone at one location provided they already have

Microsoft Office licences for their machines. Usually consultants

be achieved more cost-effectively. I started developing my own

require separate licences to be purchased, so I saw an opportunity to produce a more competitive product, particularly benefiting

Starting up the business Paul said: “Following extensive market research I put together a business plan and contacted Business Gateway. I attended a number of free Business Gateway training events, finding the marketing seminar particularly useful and learning lots about people.” “I found the Scottish Government’s new Small Business Bonus scheme really helpful as I was able to receive business rates relief,

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Partial Accounts; and

Stock Processing;

Asset Management.

What next for d³?

d³ plan to apply the enabling technologies to their database products in the future.

targeted marketing as well as networking with other business

Telephone 0800 917 8643 or 01786 849429 www.ddd-3.co.uk

d³ are currently developing their services to include speech recognition software and screen readers for people who are visually impaired. Paul reported: “The voice recognition software is excellent for people with low dexterity, but it’s also great for people with a lot to say – you can dictate text and it is typed up as you speak, or simply plug in a Dictaphone and your words appear onscreen three times faster than normal speech!”

small and medium sized businesses.”

which has made real difference in my first year.”

Customer Relationship (CRM);

Did you know? Using a spreadsheet as a database can lead to trouble, however, a database built from spreadsheet data can be an inexpensive way to help develop your business.

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Dataspace Scotland launch new data backup service

Provision of workorientated language skills

Stirling based Dataspace Scotland launched a new Fully Managed Data Backup Service recently.

The Stirling School of English would like to build closer ties with the business community by asking them to advise their workers of the existence of the school. The school gives students an opportunity to learn English in a relaxed atmosphere, practice speaking with fellow students and interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds. Volunteer Coordinator Lore Kelling said: “It would be of mutual benefit if businesses could make their workers aware of our services

The service is aimed at small to medium sized businesses who recognise the need for data backup but may not have the internal resources to manage this. An automated tape library is used to schedule which data is backed up. Tapes are physically swapped by Dataspace and taken offsite daily for secure fireproof storage. Dataspace remotely monitor the backup and any issues are immediately dealt with.

performance in the workplace.”

One of the first businesses to take up the new service was Lomond Plant. Ross Easton, Director, said: “This service has been excellent value for money and gives our company complete peace of mind over the safety of our valuable information. The service provides an excellent solution to disaster recovery issues.”

For further information contact the Stirling School of English on

www.dataspacescotland.co.uk

– we want to reach as many migrant workers and their families as possible and we can offer free work-orientated language skills to employees. In turn, improved English language skills increase

07817749902 or visit www.stirling-school-of-english.com

30 second interview Name:

Amy Skelton & Krista Priestly

Job Title:

Salon Owners

Place of work:

Beauty at Ebu, The Stirling Arcade

How do you get to work?

AS: Car

What is your favourite place to eat out? Why?

AS: The Riverhouse, the lunch menu is good value for money

KP: At home, my husband is a head chef and a great cook

KP: Bus

What do you think the Stirling area could most benefit from? AS: H&M

KP: Good quality hotels to bring more business to the area

What is your favourite colour?

AS: Purple

KP: Pink

What is the best thing about doing business in Stirling?

AS & KP: Our salon gets a wide range of clientele and as we are in the city centre, it’s easy access to the train and bus stations.

What do you think the biggest issue is for businesses in the

AS & KP: As our salon is seen, people know where we are, whereas some

Stirling area?

small businesses rely on advertising to make people aware of where they are. The credit crunch has also affected some businesses.

What is the biggest issue for your business?

AS & KP: We are one of the lucky businesses. We haven’t noticed a drop in business as we keep our prices low so that our clients can still afford their regular treatments.

What is your favourite shop?

AS: Betti Loves It KP: Betti Loves It

What is your greatest ambition?

AS & KP: We have already achieved our ambition as we love our work - we have been running our own salon for over one year and we are continuing to attract new clients. Beauty At Ebu: 01786 451963 www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

STIRLING BUSINESS PANEL Stirling’s Business Panel now represents over 530 local businesses. Part of the Business Panel Executive Group

Stirling’s Business Panel, led by the Executive Group, has been working hard to address key concerns outlined in the 2008 Annual Business Panel Survey. One of these concerns was the lack of support for businesses. In response, the Stirling Business Panel held a Funding and Innovation Support Event at Castle Business Park on Wednesday 30th September. Over 30 business support agencies and organisations were on hand to advise business visitors about the range of support available. Running a small business with few staff and limited resources always makes it hard to devote the time to research the support that might be available to help with activities like new product development, staff development, investment in capital equipment and a myriad range of other business activities aimed at growing a business. In many instances, some form of support may be available, but the criteria for qualification varies, the support

It is believed that this was the first time that such an event has been held in the Stirling area. Depending on the feedback from delegates, Stirling Business Panel might repeat this type of event at a future date. George Stevenson, NonExecutive Group Chairman of Mathiesons and part of the leadership group of Falkirk Business Panel also spoke at the event. He described the

time, effort and commitment Newest Execut ive Group mem ber Rosie McL involved in with Busines aren s Panel mem ber Robin Thom fro m The Cornish Pa developing the son stry Bakery, St irling Arcade. Falkirk Business Panel to its present scale. He also described the importance by Stirling Development to the business community of Agency, the joint venture having an active and effective company co-owned by Stirling Panel to represent their views Council and Valad Property to local and national government Group. Forth Valley College, on key strategic issues. Stirling University Innovation The venue for the event, Strathallan House, was hosted

Park and Stirling Council also supported the event.

Local Development Plan – Stirling Business Panel consultation

such support even exists.

As Stirling Eye went to press, Stirling Council Planners were preparing to host an event in the Council Chambers. The aim was to consult with Business Panel members to gain insight into business community views on the Stirling Area Business Space Strategy.

Having a variety of providers

The Planners want to know what the main land use problems are for business, views on how these

and support agencies under

problems can be addressed and ideas on how the business community would like to see Stirling

one roof allowed attending

evolve in both the urban and rural areas, over the next 20 years. This is another example of the Stirling

businesses to talk directly to

Business Panel being effective in allowing the local business community to voice their views and

a number of exhibitors. By

influence future policy.

is within a limited timeframe or it is not generally known that

doing so, they were able to get a much better understanding of the business support that

If you missed the event and would like to contribute to the consultation, please contact Sandra Lindsay (Planning Officer – Stirling Council) on 01786 442985, email lindsaysa@stirling.gov.uk

is available and how to gain

For more information on the Stirling Area Business Space please contact Iain Smith on 01786 442472

access to that support.

or email smithi@stirling.gov.uk

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

www.stirlingbusinesspanel.org

Not already a Business Panel member? Please contact Bill Fortune (Business Partnership Executive – Stirling Council) on 01786 443172, email panel@stirling.gov.uk or join online at www.stirlingbusinesspanel.org

MEMBER PROFILE Kevin Ferguson Managing Director Ancora-Imparo

2009 Annual Business Panel Survey

In this issue, we profile Executive Member Kevin Ferguson of Ancora-Imparo.

Mentioned in the last edition of Stirling Eye, this year’s Annual

studied Economics and Marketing

Business Panel Survey was launched following the Funding and

at Paisley and spent a year with

Innovation Support event on 30th September.

IBM in Greenock. From there he joined the regional headquarters

This is a very important survey for Stirling businesses, to ensure that

Stirling born and bred, Kevin

of Dutton Forshaw in Newcastle.

the Council and its key partners are fully aware of the key issues as

Kevin was then recruited by a management consultancy in the

they affect local businesses.

North East of England and completed a post graduate diploma in

Last year’s survey highlighted low net satisfaction levels regarding

Business IT at the University of Northumbria. Returning to Scotland, Kevin spent the next 10 years working

business space and car parking. As reported in the last issue of Stirling Eye, this resulted in the Chairman of the Panel holding a meeting with the Head of Roads. This in turn led to the Head of Roads attending an Executive Group

for companies involved with IT, Health & Safety, IT training and Customer Relationship Management Tools. He then decided to go it alone and start up his own company, Ancora-Imparo.

meeting. During the meeting it was revealed that a complete review

Within a month of starting the business in 2004, Kevin joined

of the city centre parking strategy is to be undertaken. As part of

the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and was appointed Vice

the consultation process that will occur in the development of a city

Chairman of Forth Valley branch in 2005.

centre parking strategy, it is expected that the Business Panel will

This year his business was named UK and Ireland partner of the

be consulted, allowing the views of local business to inform the

year by Mamut Business Software.

outcome.

Kevin said: “I joined the FSB as I saw it as an organisation

Stirling Council’s Planning Department will be particularly interested in the views expressed in the survey, so it is in the interest of all Panel members to participate.

I see the Business Panel in a similar way, raising the profile locally of the business community and giving them a stronger voice in

For members who have not received an electronic invitation to participate, please contact the Panel at panel@stirling.gov.uk or phone 01786 443172.

providing small businesses with a voice at national level.

their dealings with the local Council. I look forward to the next major milestone for my business – our tenth anniversary in 2013 and look forward also to helping develop the Stirling Business Panel further.” Ancora Imparo translates as “I am still learning”.

Did you know? Stirling Business Panel now has its own website designed by Stirling IT – to check it out, please visit www.stirlingbusinesspanel.org

Did you know? Michelangelo wrote “Ancora Imparo” in the margin of one of his sketches when he was in the final stages of his life. Michelangelo lived to almost 90 years of age and was, like his great rival Leonardo, an artist, architect, sculptor, poet and engineer.

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Special feature

Stirling Enterprise Update

STIRLING START-UP NUMBERS BUCK NATIONAL TREND Business start-up numbers in the Stirling district have remained buoyant, despite a declining national trend. The Committee of Scottish Clearing Banks which collates figures from Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale, Lloyds TSB Scotland and Royal Bank of Scotland reported recently that business start-up numbers in Scotland for the first quarter of 2009 were 25% down on last year. This picture contrasts sharply with the experiences of local Business Gateway contractor, Stirling Enterprise (STEP) in the last financial year. Business Start-Up awareness and training workshops delivered by STEP during the April 2008 to March 2009 time period were well

attended, with 43 workshops delivered during the 12 month period attracting a total of 340 people. Additional free business training events addressing subjects like Online Trading, Search Engine Optimisation, Book-keeping and Marketing attracted a total of 237 delegates to the 27 workshops that ran during the period.

businesses from a range of sectors including

“Looking at the broader business picture,

manufacturing, food and drink, tourism and

we acknowledge however that it’s not

pharmaceuticals were accepted on to the

all rosy. We know from our interaction

Scottish Enterprise Growth Pipeline through

with existing businesses across the Stirling

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway

locality, that it’s tough out there. Businesses

during the same 2008/9 period. These are

are weathering the economic storm with

businesses deemed capable of increasing

varying degrees of success. While some are

turnover by £400,000 within a three year

surviving literally on a week to week basis

period.

we, encouragingly, still have businesses

Economic activity in rural Stirling remained resilient with

with healthy balance sheets demonstrating solid and ambitious growth aspirations. This disparity is

31.2% of

Derek Gavin, Stirling Enterprise Executive Director

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Executive Director, Derek Gavin commented: “While start-up figures nationally paint a disappointing picture, in the Stirling area things appear to be holding steady. STEP assisted a total of 221 businesses to make it to the starting

something

business start

we are very

ups in 2008/9

mindful

emerging from

of in our

outwith the

day to day

city of Stirling.

dealings with

Of the growth

businesses

pipeline

and the

businesses

support

accepted for

mechanisms

the period, a high 62% were based in rural

“FIVE STAR RATED: Business in rural Stirling remains buoyant, bolstered by a thriving tourism industry (pictured Foxglove Cottages, by Drymen).”

we offer.” The potential to further

line during the 2008/9 time frame. This

Stirling.

figure shows a percentage increase of

Derek continued: “The effects of the credit

the strength of the rural economy, which

9.4% on numbers for the same period in

crunch starting to bite towards the end

continues to perform particularly well, is

the previous year, which saw 202 new

of 2008 and early in to 2009 has perhaps

one that has been recognised at national

businesses commence trading with STEP’s

contributed to this upsurge in interest

level. The launch of the Scottish Rural

assistance.”

and activity in the business start-up arena

Development Programme (SRDP) Rural

This sense of buoyancy isn’t restricted just

within the Stirling district. With increasing

Priorities Scheme in April 2008 has helped

to start-ups. The number of businesses

numbers of people facing redundancy and

breathe new life and enthusiasm in to key

demonstrating significant growth

unemployment, many look towards self-

rural business sectors.

aspirations continues to remain healthy

employment as an alternative – and in their

The Scottish Government grant scheme,

within the Stirling district. A total of 37

eyes - more secure career option.

which has the ability to match fund

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

maximise on

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Stirling Enterprise Update

Special feature

SRDP Rural Priorities update from STEP Since the launch of the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP) in April 2008,

Busy time s at new b usiness star Repairs t-up, St

irling Cycle

rural business development projects, has so far granted £250,000 to projects locally. Recipients in these cases were all businesses operating within the tourism sector. With uptake of the scheme gaining momentum, Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway is optimistic about what this will mean. Rural & Farm Support Officer, Caroline Brown commented: “While rural and farm businesses have to make their way through a rigorous application process to access the funding on offer through the SRDP Rural Priorities scheme, the gains make it worthwhile. Never before has there been a grant fund offering our rural businesses such a significant cash injection. The ideas that the scheme is generating and the proposals that we are seeing coming forward are impressive and, taken together, demonstrate real potential to further strengthen and grow our rural economy.”

For further information on Business Start-Up, Business Growth or the SRDP Rural Priorities Grant Scheme, contact Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway on 01786 463416 or email step@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

three Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway clients have been supported in making successful applications that have resulted in grant awards totalling £250,000. The three tourism businesses, which are based across the Stirling district, have opted not to receive any publicity concerning their grant awards. The awards have supported the creation of a new B&B facility, the expansion of an existing self-catering facility and the creation of five new self-catering units. STEP continue to work with rural businesses across the Forth Valley district to understand the opportunities existing within the SRDP Rural Priorities Scheme and how to tackle the online application process. A variety of businesses are currently engaged with and working their way through the 2-stage application process. This can take approximately 4 - 5 months to complete from start to finish. Three panel meetings per year are held across 11 Scottish regions to decide on the outcome of applications that make it to the final stages. Forth Valley businesses are able to access Business Gateway Advisory support to complete the necessary paperwork required to satisfy Scheme assessors. Caroline Brown, STEP Rural & Farm Support Officer said: “We work very closely with SRDP Case Workers in Perth, providing local knowledge of business case applicants and drawing in Business Gateway Adviser expertise to comment on the viability of projects put forward. The relationship we have cultivated is working well and it is heartening to see such good quality proposals come to fruition. We look forward to seeing many more in the future lifespan of the scheme.” Through part-funding from the Scottish Government Skills Development Scheme (SDS) STEP also run outreach workshops across Forth Valley helping farmers and foresters tackle the online application process. Caroline continued: “Our target was to assist 60 farmers across the Forth Valley area to access this valuable training opportunity over a one year programme period. We are on track to surpass that figure.” Any business looking for further information on the SRDP Rural Priorities Scheme should contact Caroline Brown, Rural & Farm Support Officer, Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway on 01786 463416 or email cbrown@stirling-enterprise.co.uk .

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Business space developments Expansion of Manor Business Park, Blairlogie

Stirling Area Business Space Strategy Stirling Council recently published its revised Business Space Strategy for the Stirling Council area. The Strategy provides analysis of demand, supply

Jubilee House

and take-up of business space

Manor Business Park

and also provides recommendations

Development is now underway at Manor Business Park, Blairlogie,

for the Stirling

located adjacent to the A907, between Stirling and Alloa.

Council and National Park planning

The development will form an extension to the existing Business Park, providing modern industrial units, office accommodation and

authorities.

children’s’ nursery facilities. Upon completion, the development will

The Business Space Strategy

provide flexible business space for small to medium sized companies,

will help to shape provision

particularly those who operate locally and are seeking a good quality

of land for future business

office space will be required

working environment within the Stirling area.

space development in the new

by 2032, consisting

Stirling Local Development

of 202,519 sq m to

Plan, currently being drafted

accommodate new jobs

by Stirling Council’s Planning

and 33,327 sq m to cover

Department.

replacement of stock that is

The new accommodation will provide modern industrial units, with the flexibility to meet individual occupier requirements, through the combination of the standard 116 sq m (1,250 sq ft) and 232 sq m (2,500 sq ft) units. Two individual units extending up to 325 sq m (3,500 sq ft) with the benefit of good eaves height are also proposed.

Key findings from the Business

The additional space is aimed at meeting the needs of existing

Space Strategy are:

occupiers, who wish to grow their business without undertaking a

major relocation exercise.

no longer fit for purpose. l

for business space

The Business Park has been developed in sympathy with its rural setting and the expansion will continue in this vein, while offering modern commercial accommodation to rival any in the Stirling area. Competitive rental levels and an attractive working environment are the foundations of this new development aimed at keeping business growing in the local area.

20 years.

than 500 sq m. l

Business Park and surrounding areas.

development for the next

premises is for units of less

of a children’s nursery, with secure landscaped grounds, serving the

There is a lack of effective employment sites allocated

The majority of demand for office and industrial

Re-development of the existing farmhouse will also see the creation

235,846 sq m of additional

40% of available industrial

The Business Space Strategy

floorspace is pre-1960s,

also made recommendations,

leaving limited choice and

including:

supply of modern industrial

An additional 34 hectares

units with continued

of land needs to be

opportunities for renewal

allocated for office space

and redevelopment of stock.

development in the new Local Development Plan.

Since 2005, 46% of

The man behind the expansion Mr Tom Cox, himself a successful

employment land has been

entrepreneur, said his objective was “…the creation of a development

developed for uses other

which will address the needs of small businesses, particularly within

ensure that all effective

than office and industrial.

employment sites

Future economic growth

identified in the strategy

will require around 158,429

for the next 20 years are

Work is due to complete at Manor Business Park in January, 2010 and

sq m of replacement

allocated through the

full details of the development and available accommodation can

industrial space by 2032

Local Development Plan

be obtained from Jennifer Sorley of Ross & Liddell on 0141 204 7355,

to replace stock that is no

for office or industrial

email j-sorley@ross-liddell.com

longer fit for purpose.

use. The Council should

the local community, by creating an affordable property solution in difficult economic times.”

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Stirling Council should

Looking for property? Visit www.stirling.gov.uk/property

Flexible business space in Buchlyvie Dr Elena Leschen, Dr Robert Lindsay and Virginia Irvine-Fortescue, Old Surgery, Buchlyvie

A former health surgery in Buchlyvie Main Street has been refurbished to provide flexible business space in the rural area, ideally suited to therapeutic professionals.

prevent the loss of such allocated employment sites for alternative uses. l

site / area for relocation and expansion of Stirling Enterprise Park. For more information on the

Stirling Council should work

Stirling Area Business Space

with owners, agents and

please contact Iain Smith

partners to find a suitable existing or new business

on 01786 442472 or email smithi@stirling.gov.uk

The development includes rooms for exclusive or flexible/sessional use. Two rooms of 10.5 sq m (113 sq ft) and 11.5 sq m (124 sq ft) are currently available, with shared reception/waiting area and good car parking. Local doctor Robert Lindsay bought and refurbished the old surgery in 2008 and has already attracted a number of tenants including Dr Elena Leschen, Consultant in Nutritional Medicine, Virginia IrvineFortescue, Medical Herbalist and Angus Robertson, Therapeutic Masseur. Robert also practices from the premises, specialising in child and family mental health and family business consultancy. For more information about the remaining opportunities, contact Robert on 0778 865 6310, email rlindsay@doctors.org.uk or visit www.theoldsurgery.net

Did you know?

7 Melville Terrace, Stirling

Buchlyvie lends its name to a very famous Clydesdale

First floor office accommodation at the prominent 7 Melville Terrace

stallion, the Baron O’Buchlyvie

has also benefited from an internal upgrade.

who was involved in a legal

The traditional cellular office space extends to 140 sq m (1,513 sq ft) and benefits from having attic storage space of 42 sq m (508 sq ft) above.

dispute over ownership, which

Improvements to offices include raised floors, carpeting and decoration together with new kitchenette area.

for any horse at the time.

led to him being sold in 1911 for £9,500 – a record price The skeleton of the Baron O’Buchlyvie is displayed in

Further details can be obtained from joint letting agents Andrew Peel of Graham and Sibbald on 01786 463111, email apeel@g-s.co.uk and Peter Fleming of Montagu Evans on 0131 229 3800, email peter.fleming@montagu-evans.co.uk www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum in Glasgow.

Focus on the local economy

Business space developments Elphinstone and Forth Valley College announce deal to house new College Campus in Stirling The former site of Stirling Auction Mart at

such as Engineering, Creative Industries,

Kildean East is set to become the home

Construction and Hospitality.”

of Forth Valley College’s Stirling Campus following a landmark deal announced by the site’s developer, Elphinstone Group Ltd,

Commenting on the deal to create Forth Valley College’s new Stirling Campus, Ken

and the College.

Ross, Chairman of Elphinstone, said:

Land and property developer, Elphinstone,

“I am delighted that we have been able

acquired the 30-acre Kildean site as part of

to accommodate the needs of Forth Valley

its creation of the new Stirling Agricultural

College by releasing seven acres of the

Centre. Now Elphinstone has agreed to sell

Kildean site to house their new Stirling

Forth Valley College a seven-acre portion of

Campus. In doing so, I sincerely hope

Cantlay, Chairman of the Board of Management

the Kildean site to create the college’s new

that we will help Forth Valley College to

of Forth Valley College, Dr Ken Thomson, Depute

£29 million Stirling Campus.

create a 21st Century site that will provide

Principal of Forth Valley College and Ken Ross,

The Kildean site is viewed as being

employment, educational and training

Chairman of Elphinstone are all excited at

particularly appropriate for the new college

facilities for the people of Stirling and the

campus with its attractive riverside setting,

surrounding area.”

Books and Mortar: (from left to right) Dr Mike

the prospect for a new seat of learning at the Kildean East site.

good transport links and its accessibility from Stirling city, the wider rural community and the College’s Raploch Campus. Forth Valley College has already submitted outline plans for the construction of the new campus, to begin in August 2010 with the campus opening in April 2012. Elphinstone plans to use the remaining 23acre site to create a 250-home residential development supported by commercial and retail space including a 60-bed hotel, a 650 sq m restaurant and a 1,200 sq m shopping development. Dr Mike Cantlay, Chairman of the Board of Management for Forth Valley College, said: “This is an exciting time for Forth Valley College with an ambitious estates strategy. We are delighted to have secured the Kildean East site for our new Stirling Campus. This is an attractive location

Wallace House Wallace House recently benefited from an extensive refurbishment scheme of around a quarter of a million pounds to the main common areas and vacant offices. The full extent of the improvements include new ceiling grids with integral lighting, dado trunking and new carpeting and decoration, signage as well as enhancements to the lift and reception area with frontage canopy intended to complete. Recent occupiers, Keep Scotland Beautiful and Geothermal and a range of established occupiers are taking full advantage of the improvements to the common areas as well as the on-site concierge service. Andrew Peel of Graham & Sibbald commented: “The refurbishment of the common areas and vacant suites has brought Wallace House into the 21st century. The building now provides superb office accommodation within an enviable City Centre location, only a few paces from Stirling’s train and bus stations.”

with excellent transport links and close

Only three office suites remain for lease on flexible terms providing space from 67 sq m (720

proximity to our existing Raploch Campus.

sq ft) to 264 sq m (2,837 sq ft) although enquirer interest is currently being shown in two of

Furthermore, the site will be accessible for

the suites.

a wide range of learners and it’s also at the

Ground floor space of 86 sq m (927 sq ft) was recently leased to Body and Sole Healthcare for

heart of a business growth area.

their new chiropody and complementary treatments practice.

“The campus will have a strong focus on

Further details on improvements and remaining space can be obtained from Andrew Peel

vocational training with an impressive range

of Graham and Sibbald on 01786 463111, email apeel@g-s.co.uk or contact Kate Byrne of

of technical specialist facilities in areas

Savills on 0131 247 3821, email kbyrne@savills.com

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Looking for property? Visit www.stirling.gov.uk/property

Forsyth Business Centre, Castle Business Park Forsyth Business Centre located in Castle Business Park has a number of flexible business space opportunities currently available. The Business Centre provides fully serviced modern office accommodation with flexible leases from 3 months plus. Office suites vary in size from around 61 sq m (200 sq ft) to 305 sq m (1,000 sq ft). The Business Centre can provide meeting room facilities suitable from two to twenty five people and can arrange catering for delegates as required.

Forsyth Business Centre provides excellent access to Stirling’s motorway network and is within easy reach of Stirling City Centre. The Business Centre has ample car parking for tenants and visitors alike. Two of the largest occupiers within the centre are Asian information technology firm TATA Consultancy Services and the British Dental Association. A few of the most recent tenants to take advantage of a flexible lease and modern office suites are Efficient Client Services, an IT and technology company and Stirling Consulting.

For more information on remaining flexible business space or to book a tour of Forsyth Business Centre, please contact Shirley-Ann O’Hare, Centre Manager on 01786 431700, email shirley-ann.o’hare@forsyth.co.uk www.forsyth.co.uk

Planning applications update Seven planning applications with a

significant business focus have been submitted to Stirling Council since the last edition of Stirling Eye (July) and are still being considered, pending a decision: l

An application by Whitbread Group Plc for extension to hotel, alterations to car park and change of use of agricultural land (640 sq m extension of hotel – 22 new bedrooms proposed) at Pirnhall Inn, Pinrhall Road West, Stirling.

An application by Stirling Development Agency for a new mixed use development with total floor area of 18,000-19,700 sq m comprising civic, commercial, retail, private residential, library, hotel, restaurant, affordable residential and commercial parking use on land at Station Road, Stirling.

An application by Elphinstone Land Ltd for a mixed-use development incorporating business, industrial, storage and agricultural machinery and vehicle sales (5.85 acres) on land to north of Hill Of Drip Farm, bounded by River Teith and River Forth. An application by the McNicol-Cox Trust for erection of one industrial unit (292 sq m) at Manor Farm, Manor Road, Blairlogie.

An application by Forth Valley College for development of new college campus facilities, associated access, parking and ancillary works (5.1 hectares) at Kildean Auction Market, Drip Road, Stirling. An application by Struthers & Scott Veterinary Surgeons for erection of a new veterinary surgery with associated parking (744 sq m) on land south of Lochill Industrial Estate and north of Kilmadock Cemetery, Doune. An application by Airtricity Developments (UK) Ltd for development of 11 wind turbines and associated infrastructure including a temporary construction compound, sub station and control building, underground power cables, 2 permanent anemometer masts, site access tracks, 5 water crossings and up to 2 borrow pits (11 turbines, 753 hectares) on land some 1.5 km north west of Muirpark Farm, Stirling.

The following planning applications have been approved: l

Trust for an 18 hole golf course with club house, car parking, open air practice facilities (renewal of permission under Article 5 of General Permitted Order 1992) (98 hectares golf course) on land at Kippendavie, Ramsay Drive, Dunblane. l

negotiations to draw up a planning agreement: l

An application by Stirling Enterprise (STEP) for a convenience superstore with service area, car parking and landscaping (6,900 sq m retail) at Stirling Enterprise Park, Springbank Road, Stirling.

An application by Ian MacLeod Distillers Ltd to replace and extend storage facility, siting of potable tank, car parking and ancillary works (3,702 sq m storage facility) at Glengoyne Distillery, Strathblane.

An application by Stirling Development Agency for phase 1 infrastructure works including road access (5.1 hectares – footpaths, cycleways, street lighting, foul and surface water drainage and public utility services) at Kildean Auction

The following planning application has been supported in principle, but is subject to detailed

An application by Kippendavie Group

Market, Drip Road, Raploch. l

An application by Gladman Development Limited for substitution of consented buildings by three storey office extending to 2,748 sq m on land some 100 m north of Dunblane Cemetery, Barbush, Dunblane.

Planning schedules can be viewed at www.stirling.gov.uk/planningschedule www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Sector feature

Construction

The construction sector is vitally important to Scotland’s economy. It facilitates regeneration and economic growth by providing new infrastructure, and in 2007, consisted of 41,435 businesses employing 161,000 people and generating a turnover of £13.4 billion. The construction sector accounted for around 14 per cent of Gross Domestic Product in 2006. There were around 400 construction businesses in the Stirling Council area in 2007, employing over 3,400 people. However, the construction industry, particularly private house building, has been hit hard by the recession. The global downturn, limited access to finance and the collapse of the housing market have meant that many construction businesses are increasingly reliant on public sector work. This has resulted in strong competition for public sector contracts, as well as tough market operating conditions. Indications are that the housing sector is beginning to pick up with a number of private sector house builders resuming construction on private developments in the Forth Valley area. There are also a number of significant construction projects planned or underway across the Central Belt, including: l

£29 million new Stirling Campus for Forth Valley College;

Contracts for the 2014 Commonwealth Games (£90 million Velodrome and sports arena);

£320 million Private Finance Initiative upgrade of the M80;

£850 million planned retail and leisure centre in Edinburgh;

£40 million revamp of Edinburgh Airport; and

£1.72-2.34 billion new Forth Replacement Crossing.

Forth Construction Forum The Forth Construction Forum was launched in Stirling in 2005 to provide support to construction related businesses located within the Stirling area to help them take advantage of contracting opportunities. With businesses eager to join, there are now over 350 members and the local forum has expanded to cover Falkirk and Clackmannanshire too. While promoting good practice, the Forum facilitates the flow of information between clients, the industry and key agencies. The Forum has already helped Stirling area members to win over £1.5m worth of work on the Raploch Regeneration project. The type of business help and solutions provided by the Forum includes putting operatives through Construction Skills Certification Scheme tests, sourcing Health and Safety training and providing procurement training. Martin Reid, Coordinator of Forth Construction, has even attended Holyrood to lobby on behalf of Forum members. Membership of the Forum is free and any construction related business in the Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Falkirk area can join. Events and training are delivered directly by Forth Construction. Martin said: “The current economic climate has driven home more than ever the need to be competitive and have the ability to deliver what the client wants; and we can help with that.” Forth Construction is publicly funded and supported by Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils. Martin and Forum Administrator Jackie Mitchell are always ready to hear from businesses wishing to join the Forum and explain to them the benefits of membership. For more information, please phone 01259 226685 or visit www.forthconstruction.co.uk

All public sector construction contracts are now advertised on www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk This feature includes interviews with key individuals from the local construction sector, detailing changes to the construction industry over time and the impact of the recession. 18

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Construction

Sector feature

Phil McEwan, Managing Director, Ogilvie Construction Ltd

Interview with Martin Reid, Coordinator of Forth Construction Forum

The company

What is your background? “Growing up, most of my family worked in the construction industry, so when I left school I did my apprenticeship as a plasterer. Soon after I went to University and went on to work for the Construction Licensing Executive and the Scottish Building Federation before taking the role of Project Co-ordinator for Forth Construction.”

What does your role with Forth Construction involve? “It is my job to provide business support and solutions in order to help our members expand and grow. This includes providing training, encouraging major contractors to take on local subcontractors or even ensuring members concerns or issues get to the ears of the Scottish Construction Centre or the Scottish Construction Forum. All this is free for members.”

What impact has the recession had on construction? “Projects have been delayed due to lack of money and many that had started have been mothballed. The housing sector has suffered more than most.

Following wartime service Phil McEwan, Managing Dire ctor of two Stirling brothers Ogilvie Constru ction outside th e new established Ogilvie in 1946 Stirling High Sc hool, built by Ogilvie. to build houses, however, the business really took off after they built a bonded warehouse. Duncan Ogilvie is the third generation to run the company as Chief Executive. One of Stirling’s largest companies, with a turnover of £147 million and more than 400 employees, the company is involved in construction of hospitals, schools, pubs and hotels.

Phil, what are the key changes to the industry?

predicted the problems with RBS?

“The move to novated design

Clients are pulling out and not proceeding with contracts – commercial developers cannot access finance to continue with planned developments.

and build, where clients ‘risk dump’, e.g. the design of a project is passed to the contractor and if the architect doesn’t perform, the risk is also passed to the contractor. PPPs (Public Private Partnerships) have taken this to a new level, making

Many apprentices have lost or are in danger of losing their jobs. However, it is important to retain apprentices and look at ways of making room for more, so that we can take full advantage of economic recovery. “

contractors responsible for

Do you think the economic climate is improving?

recently completing our tenth

“I feel there are signs that we may have gone past the worst of

£25-30 million school in the

it but I think recovery will be slow for some time yet to come.”

Forth Valley area.

What is your advice for getting through the recession?

While PPPs remain in England,

“Avoid working for bad payers and look outside your normal parameters for opportunities. Survivability is all about adapting to change.”

abolished them. This will affect

the long term operating and servicing of buildings. We have benefited from PPPs,

the Scottish Government has our turnover as there is currently nothing to replace them.

With increasing competition, tenders are going in at negative margins – this isn’t sustainable and is a recipe for lawyers’ litigation. We’ve had to follow the trend, but have stopped short of ludicrous tender margins. Although public sector work will see us through the worst, we’ve had to downsize and lose some very good people. But I think that the strong will become stronger and we will be in a good position for economic recovery.”

Procurement procedures are

Are there advantages to being based in Stirling?

slower due to the introduction

“Yes, Stirling is viewed as a

of new European legislation,

neutral location, enabling us

What are the key opportunities?

which has also resulted in

to win work in both the East

“There is the opportunity to make sure your company is ready to take advantage of the upturn in work when it comes. The Government recently announced a schools building programme of £1.25 billion up to 2017 and there is also the new Forth Replacement Crossing estimated at £1.72-2.34 billion to name a couple of projects in the offing.”

contractors from overseas

and West and across Scotland

bidding for work in Scotland.”

as a whole.”

What are the current barriers? “A major barrier for construction companies is obtaining credit. As suppliers feel the squeeze, credit lines shrink or disappear. “

What about the recession?

www.ogilvie.co.uk

“It’s hard to predict what will happen next. Who could have

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Sector feature

Construction

Hugh Lawson, Director Forth Plumbing & Heating Services The company Forth Plumbing & Heating Services was established in 1996. The business employs seven people, including four tradesmen, two apprentices and an Office Manager. Recent public sector contracts include toilet refurbishments for local schools and the NHS in Clydebank.

Hugh, what have been the key changes to the construction industry?

Are you involved in the Forth Construction Forum?

“Since the 1990s, health and

has provided useful advice

safety has been overhauled

when we are preparing

and procurement procedures

tenders and I have attended a

are now more rigorous.

number of meetings, engaging

While the construction industry

with other businesses and

has become more professional,

procurement specialists; this

small companies have had

has been helpful.

to develop skills to cover

In addition, our employees

estimating, surveying, pricing and more.

“Yes. The Forum Coordinator Hugh Lawson, Director of Forth Plumbing & Heating Services

information free of all members should take advantage of.”

What advice do you have for other construction businesses?

have benefited from CSCS training and asbestos

The economic slowdown

awareness training – both

has made construction more

are essential to assist us

competitive. Larger all trade

gaining a CHAS health and

companies have started to bid

safety certificate. We are able

for work traditionally taken up

to access this training and

Forth Plumbing & Heating apprentice Blair Craig

charge, which I believe

“I have benefited from being an active member of organisations such as SNIPEF and Forth Construction. These organisations are

there to help businesses and the more you engage with them, the greater the benefit.”

by smaller companies – these companies can afford to be quite aggressive with their

**STOP PRESS – F GAS COMPANY CERTIFICATES**

pricing.”

What about the recession? “As I run a small business, I am able to manage the finances closely in light of the current economic situation. From my point of view, it appears that the main effect of the recession has been on the private sector clients as people are more careful about spending money and re-investing in their property. However, having said that, our client numbers are up on last year and hopefully this is a signal that the worst is over. Fortunately, we also have public sector clients as we had expanded into public sector work before the recession.”

STIRLING EYE

Since 4th July 2009 it has been a legal requirement for all businesses that install, maintain or service stationary refrigeration, air-conditioning and heat pump equipment containing F Gas refrigerants to obtain certification. All companies affected by the regulations must have an Interim Company Certificate or a Stationary Equipment Qualification Company Certificate in place.

Fasco launch new store in Stirling Engineering supplies specialist Fasco has bucked the economic trend with the launch of a new concept store – Fasco Extra – in July. The opening of Fasco Extra in Springkerse Industrial Estate celebrates a homecoming for the company, which closed its previous outlet in Stirling two years ago. With trade stores in Grangemouth and Shetland, the Stirling store is the first to open to both business and general customers. The Stirling store features workwear, a wide selection of tools, power tools and accessories, safety gear and janitorial equipment. John Scott, Managing Director of Fasco, said: “We are taking a positive and bold step forward in what is a difficult economic climate. With its central location and great transport links, Stirling is the ideal location for the first Fasco Extra and we hope this will be the first of many that will open across the country.” www.fasco.co.uk

Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Mugdock Makkers search for hidden talent

Invite from Glasgow Caledonian University to Technology Showcase

The Mugdock Makkers are on the lookout

During the current economic crisis, the Government has been very keen to encourage

for new members – creative people and

academia to work closely with the business sector to enable companies to become more

craft workers of quality.

competitive and ready to prosper when

Eric Lewis, a member

Old Town Cemeteries re-open after £1.7 million refurbishment

the economy picks up again in the months

and craft workers who

The £1.7 million project to restore Stirling’s Old Town

the Stirling & Trossachs area exhibiting. The

offer a range of original

Cemeteries was recently completed.

companies will demonstrate the benefits to

products at their craft

Work on the project involved bringing the physical

their business of collaborative projects they

centre and gallery at

infrastructure of the cemetery back to the original

have undertaken with GCU through the KIT-

Mugdock Park Visitor’s

Victorian style, with restoration of stonework, ironwork,

OUT project. (see www.kit-out.org ). One of

Centre. The Makkers

and, hard and soft landscaping. The Cemetery

these companies is Callander based Wheels

promote crafts and hold

interpretation project has been developed to include still

Cycling Centre, whose owner Mark Shimidzu

demonstrations of their

photographs, a series of documentary films on the

approached the University for advice on

work in action most

restoration of the Cemetery itself and a dedicated website.

incorporating the latest green technologies

The Old Town Cemeteries together with Stirling Castle,

into a planned new development.

If you join the Makkers,

Argyll’s Lodging and The Old Town Jail make up a

you will be expected

Delegates attending the 2009 Technology

world-class experience for visitors. It’s hoped that the

to help in the gallery

Showcase will also be able to meet and talk

restoration project will further enhance the Top of the

and talk about or

with a range of support agencies who can

Town visitor experience, bringing more visitors to the

demonstrate your craft

area for longer, generating additional spend for local

give advice on funding, grants and other

at weekends on a rota

businesses.

of Makkers, said: “We are keen to find hidden talent and reinvigorate dormant entrepreneurial skills. So if you are a quality craft worker and would like a new avenue for publicising and selling your work, we would love to hear from you.” The Mugdock Makkers are a collective of artists

weekends.

basis.

ahead. As part of its outreach activities, Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is holding its annual Technology Showcase on Friday 23rd October 2009, from 11am – 3pm in the University’s Saltire Centre. The event provides Stirling businesses with an excellent opportunity to see first hand what expertise, technical assistance and support are available through engaging with a university. As well as demonstrations of GCU’s own expertise and technologies, there will be a number of companies from

assistance available to small and medium sized businesses.

The project received funding of £824,000 from the

The event is free to attend and a buffet

To find out more,

Heritage Lottery Fund, £430,226 from Stirling Council,

please email info@

£376,126 from Historic Scotland, and £18,183 for a

mugdockmakkers.org.uk

specific piece of work to Pithy Mary Pond from Scottish

or phone 0141 956 6555.

Natural Heritage.

www.mugdockmakkers.org.uk

www.oldtowncemetery.co.uk www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

lunch will be provided. Registration is now open and places can be booked on-line at www.kit-out.org/event-form.htm or contact Audrey Meikle on 0141 331 8458 for further information.

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Interview with...

Stirling Auction, 1966. Copyright: Collections of Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum

Neil McLean, Group Joint Managing Director, United Auctions

The importance of the sale has increased worldwide thanks to greater recognition of genetics in livestock breeding. Buyers come from as far as Argentina, Australia and Canada.

Are there other businesses located at the Centre? What is your background? Stirling born and bred, I have been with United Auctions (UA) for 25 years, originally in accounting, then general management and as a company Director for more than 10 years. My job is challenging but rewarding. The best bit is the people – those I work with and the characters I meet on a daily basis. We recently relocated our headquarters from Perth to Stirling, and have a network of different auction marts across Scotland including Huntly, Lairg, Dalmally, Oban, South Uist, Islay and Tiree.

Can you tell us about the Stirling Agricultural Centre? The Stirling Agricultural Centre opened in late July with an inaugural sale attended by the First Minister. Over 4,000 people were there to see the first animal – a Highland heifer – sold in a charity auction, for 10,000 guineas, raising £10,500 for a breast cancer charity. Stirling has been excellent for UA – the value of the City as a central location for movement of livestock has not changed across the centuries. It made sense for us to centralise activity in Stirling for marketing of livestock and ease of access to motorway connections.

STIRLING EYE

£15 million was invested in the new Centre, based on a 51-acre site at Hill Of Drip. The centre has a 13,500 sq m building, including three auction rings, an exhibition hall for showing bulls, 400+ livestock pens, a restaurant, a conference room for 100+ people and 18 paddocks for resting sheep coming from places like the Western Isles. The Centre will also secure 300 long-term jobs for the local economy. I am delighted that local companies like Ogilvie, FES and Tradstocks have been involved in the construction and in maintaining the Centre in the future.

What about the Perth Bull Sales? These world famous Sales are coming to Stirling this October and will be held here every October, February and May. We are expecting around 8,000 visitors to the first sale – many will travel from afar providing huge benefit to the local tourism industry. We have worked with VisitScotland to put together an accommodation list, which has been sent to regular customers and is on our website - www.uagroup.co.uk. As well as local established pedigree herds, we attract herds from across the UK.

Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

The developer, Elphinstone, is securing tenancies for office and agri-retail space within the Centre. The demand is encouraging and we look forward to other agri-related businesses opening at the Centre soon. Stirling is unique in that it boasts two auction marts and two abattoirs and my vision is for the Stirling Agricultural Centre to cement the City as the agri capital of Scotland. Elphinstone has also submitted a planning application for construction of two further buildings on the site in response to the high demand for space.

What is your involvement with Forth Valley College? I was recently appointed to their Board. I believe in lifelong learning and I’m excited about the new Stirling Campus, which will be a fantastic development, enhancing the Western part of the city. www.uagroup.co.uk

Did you know? United Auctions has had a presence in Stirling for over 150 years.

Stirling businesses support the arts Stirling businesses are providing vital support to the arts, helping Stirling to host a range of exciting exhibitions. Bell & Craig Solicitors (Stirling) were one of

There are a number of ways to support the

11 local businesses to sponsor last year’s

Smith, and indeed, for the Smith to support

Leonardo da Vinci exhibition at the Stirling

your business:

Smith Art Gallery and Museum. Fergus Bell

You can sponsor an event or exhibition

said: “We were delighted to be involved.

and be included in publicity for the

This was an opportunity for the Smith and

event, including having your business

for Stirling to show that it could hold an

name on banners throughout Stirling.

exhibition of national importance. The

You can suggest an exhibition or

resulting publicity that we obtained raised

publication that ties in with your

our profile in the area and was a great piece

business, e.g. the history of agriculture

of advertising. I would recommend other

in Stirling exhibition linking in with

businesses to sponsor events such as these.”

the opening of the Stirling Agricultural

Councillor Colin O’Brien, Chairman of the

Centre and winter sales. l

with Martinmas and to celebrate the

You can suggest a leaflet or publication,

opening of the new Stirling Agricultural

isn’t the same history of sponsoring the arts

e.g. the Burns in Stirling leaflet produced

Centre – sponsored by United Auctions.

in Britain as there is in America, but this is

for the year of homecoming and

something Stirling businesses are starting to

sponsored by the Stirling Burns Club.

Trustees of the Stirling Smith, said: “There

change. A growing number of businesses

Other events sponsored by local businesses

are sponsoring the activities of the Smith

include:

Art Gallery and Museum, and in return have

received excellent publicity.”

The ‘Men of Bannockburn’ exhibition – sponsored by Graham’s the Family Dairy; and

Sponsorship for last year’s Leonardo da Vinci exhibition helped to pay for additional

security, upgraded catering facilities and

The history of agriculture in Stirling events running in November to coincide

www.smithartgallery.demon.co.uk

Did you know? Martinmas on the 11th November used to be an important date on the agricultural calendar, with cattle that were too costly to feed over the winter slaughtered and the beef salted. It was also a traditional day for hiring and firing of staff.

improvements to environmental conditions within the Gallery. The Government’s Arts and Business programme also match funded contributions from Stirling businesses sponsoring the arts for the first time.

Schedule for October Perth Bull Sales The Perth Bull Sales in October will be held at the Stirling Agricultural Centre over three days. The proposed schedule of dates is: l

Friday 16th & Saturday 17th October Bulls arrive

Sunday 18th October

Monday 19th October

Inspection of Aberdeen Angus, Beef Shorthorn, Limousin and Simmental. Shows and sales of Aberdeen Angus and Beef Shorthorn bulls and females. Sales of other native breeds, Limousin show and Charolais inspection.

Tuesday 20th October

Sales of Limousin, British Blue, Blonde D’Aquitaine and Saler females. Show and sale of Simmental bulls and females and Show of Charolais.

Wednesday 21st October

Sale of Charolais.

The Perth Bull Sales in February are even bigger and will be split over two weeks. www.uagroup.co.uk www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Scottish Business Rates Deferral Scheme 2009/10

Local distillery tours launched Deanston Distillery near Doune is opening to the public for the first time, with its recently launched tours. Originally the site of a cotton mill dating back to 1785, the buildings were converted to a whisky distillery in the early 1960s. Owned by Burn Stewart Distillers, Deanston has impressive green credentials. Using specially grown barley, free from pesticides and chemicals, Deanston produces an award-winning range of organic whiskies and is the only distillery in Scotland self-sufficient in electricity. Located on

On 1st April 2009 most business rates bills

the banks of the stunning River Teith, its water-powered turbines generate enough power to

in Scotland increased by 5%.

run the distillery, and excess which is sold back to the national grid.

In response to the

Commenting on the decision to open up tours to the public, Distillery Manager Callum Fraser

difficulties facing

said. “This is a fantastic opportunity for people to visit a Distillery still making whisky using

businesses as a result of

traditional methods.”

the economic crisis, the

In terms of the local tourism offering, this now means visitors to the area can combine two

Scottish Government

fantastic experiences, a whisky distillery tour and tasting with a trip to the nearby Doune

and all 32 Scottish local authorities have

Castle.

implemented a new business rates deferral scheme this year to minimise the impact

To find out about tours and corporate facilities, call Ann Shackell on 01786 841422, email ann.shackell@burnstewartdistillers.com

of this increase, help cashflow and provide a much needed boost for the Scottish economy. The scheme allows businesses to choose to

Scottish Chambers of Commerce

spread repayment of part of their 2009/10

Chambers of Commerce are the world’s oldest and most internationally

business rates over three years. You can

recognised business organisations. They have been serving Scottish

choose to defer payment of 3% of your

businesses since 1783, and have never been more relevant than they

2009/10 bill. You will pay back half the

are today.

deferred amount in 2010/11 and half in

Scottish Chambers of Commerce is

Liz Cameron, Chief

2011/12.

the umbrella organisation for 20 local

Executive of Scottish

Chambers of Commerce across Scotland.

Chambers of

They have over 9,500 business members,

Commerce said: “It is

which together employ more than half

with good reason that

of Scotland’s private sector workforce.

Scottish Chambers of

Chambers serve businesses of all sizes and

Commerce is labelled

across all sectors and their services include

as Scotland’s Ultimate Business Network,

networking opportunities, the Business

and our goal is to ensure that every

Mentoring Scotland programme and high-

business in every part of Scotland is able to

level policy engagement with Government

benefit from our wide range of services.”

HAVE YOU CLAIMED YOUR SMALL BUSINESS BONUS? From 1 April 2009 the percentage relief available changed. Businesses with rateable values up to £15,000 may have their rates reduced by between 25% and 100%.

and key decision makers.

To request an application form for either scheme, please contact The Rates Service on 01786 443236 or email rates@stirling.gov.uk

STIRLING EYE

Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce

If you are interested in the establishment

Chambers of Commerce provide a channel

of a Chamber of Commerce for the

for businesses to raise issues with Government

Stirling area, please contact Bill Fortune

andLimited: help to shape business environment on fortuneb@stirling.gov.uk or phone Logoxpres 01786the 447454 www.logoxpres.co.uk to make our firms more competitive. Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

01786 443172.

Kris Meek e

Rally of scotland 2009 update This year, Stirling and Perth & Kinross will host the RACMSA Rally of Scotland, the largest motor rally to take place in Scotland for twenty years. The international-status event, which is the deciding round of the prestigious Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) series, will involve three days of competitive driving over timed, special stages in Stirling, Perth and the

Giandomenico Basso

surrounding area. The Ceremonial Start and

Esplanade will bring to an end

Viewing is free of charge at

first stages of the event will

the inaugural Rally of Scotland

the ceremonial finish.

take place in Perthshire but

and the whole international

will then move on to Stirling

series on Saturday 21

on the evening of Friday 20

November. With commentary

November. The Forthside area

and interviews with all the

of the city will host a large

crews and a large screen

service park that will be open

showing images of the past

on the Friday evening and

international network. These

Ticket Information

two days action there will be

during the day on Saturday

broadcasts will showcase

Tickets are now on sale.

plenty to keep the audience

21 November, allowing rally

Stirling’s natural assets, with

Hotline: 0844 847 2488

entertained. The crews

fans and families alike to get

the route taking in some of

Website: www.rallyscotland.tv

competing in the National B

up close to the cars and drivers

the most stunning scenery the

rally, who tackle the first 3

area has to offer. For further

Or in person at: Barrhead

stages of the Saturday loop will

information on the Rally of

A traditional champagne

have their finishing ceremony

Scotland 2009 go to

ceremony at Stirling Castle

at Stirling Castle Esplanade too.

www.stirling.gov.uk/rally

and enjoy some entertainment.

Eurosport is the global promoter of the IRC Series and will be showing live footage, as well as highlight programmes, through their

Travel, 29 – 31 Murray Place, Stirling FK8 1DQ, Tel: 01786 457780

St Andrew’s Day (Homecoming Finale Weekend) update Stirling will celebrate St Andrew’s Day and the finale of Homecoming Scotland 2009 by hosting an exciting range of events, from 26 to 30 November, that focus on Scottish culture – traditional and modern. Events will include ‘To See The Sky…’, a unique fashion show, gig

The event takes its name from Iona

and exhibition featuring an exceptional collaboration between

Crawford’s Spring / Summer 2010

contemporary Scottish fashion designer Iona Crawford and Japanese

collection, which will be exclusively

fine artist Yukako Sakakura.

shown within the setting of the

Design by Iona Crawfo rd

Tolbooth. Following the fashion show, a hot selection of Scottish indie bands will perform with a contemporary Scottish DJ rounding off the evening. Other Stirling events for St Andrew’s Day and the Homecoming Finale Weekend will include a fabulous ceilidh at

Representatives from 26 countries took part in the World Fly

the Albert Halls, a Stirling Castle

Fishing Championships 2009 in June. They are shown here

ceilidh, city centre entertainment and a St Andrew’s Day Farmers’

before the official opening ceremony in Drymen, with children

Market. Entry to the National Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle

from Drymen Primary School and the Stirling Schools’ Pipe

will also be free on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November to

Band. Funders and sponsors of the event included Stirling

mark this special occasion. For more information go to

Council, EventScotland and Glengoyne Distillery.

www.visitstirling.org

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

At your service

Health and Safety

Health and Safety Stirling Council’s Health and Safety team’s objective is to help people living and working in the area to be aware of the hazards to their health and safety and to reduce the likelihood of accidents and dangerous occurrences. The team also deals with noise complaints from commercial premises, safety of reservoirs and burial of the dead. Stirling’s Health and Safety team is responsible for making

programmed inspections at varying intervals dependent on the nature of their business and according to the risks inherent in that business. For example tyre and exhaust fitters and warehouses are inspected

much more often than small offices. The Health and Safety team is based at the Municipal Buildings, Corn Exchange Road, Stirling and can

be contacted on 0845 277 7000 or eoadmin@ stirling.gov.uk

Who deals with what? Stirling Council and the Health and Safety Executive The Council’s Health and Safety team enforces Health and Safety legislation in non-manufacturing premises, such as offices, shops, warehouses and service industries, while the Health and Safety Executive is responsible for factories, workshops and construction sites.

sure that Health and Safety regulations and legislation are known and followed by employers and their employees. To do this they provide a free advice and guidance service, conduct Health and Safety

Health & Safety Executive Good practice in health and safety is good for your business – and it’s the law. Whatever the size of your business, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is there to help you.

carry out enforcement action

The HSE has a wealth of information on its website (www.hse.gov.uk) including online advice and tools as well as a free, confidential helpline that can save you time and effort:

where necessary.

inspections, undertake accident and incident investigations and

All of the premises that Stirling Council has enforcement responsibility for, receive

STIRLING EYE

Their Better Business campaign shows why health and safety is good for business, and offers some simple steps and tools to help you get started.

Focus on the local economy

‘Your legal responsibilities’ tells you what you must do as an employer and Getting started – 10 steps shows you how to do it.

You can download a free basic guide for small businesses, including two ready-made templates for a risk assessment and a health and safety policy.

The website also has information on how to involve your workers in health and safety and shows how effective leadership promotes good practice.

Visit www.hse.gov.uk or call the confidential HSE Infoline on 0845 345 0055.

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Health and Safety Health and Safety case study

At your service PROFILE Health and Safety Officer

Name of Company: Blairdrummond Safari Park

Name: Arthur Law Job: Principal Environmental Health Officer, Health and Safety Team Role: To develop and manage the Health and Safety Section

David Booth, Chief Game Warden with Dorothy, the White Rhino

Blairdrummond Safari Park opened in 1970 and prides itself on its considerable visitor numbers and very low accident rate. The safety of their visitors as well as their animals and staff is paramount. Every year changes and improvements are made to the park and their collections of animals increases. Stirling Eye interviewed Chief Game Warden, David Booth to find out how they work together with the Health and Safety team. David said: “We work together with Stirling Council on a wide range of projects. Ongoing projects include improving safety on our pedal boats and the adventure playground. The Health and Safety team assist us with our risk assessments and advise on additional safety features such as improved signage. We also recently worked with the Health and Safety team when we constructed a new tiger enclosure with a visitor viewing platform. The Health and Safety team gave us excellent support from the planning stage to the completion of this project. Each time the Park brings in something new, whether it be a new animal or a new attraction, we work with the Council on risk assessments and safe working practices. The Health and Safety team give us invaluable advice on a wide range of subjects.” www.blairdrummond.com

Did you know?

The Park will celebrate its 40th anniversary next year and has over 50 different species of animals.

Estrella, the parks oldest elephant is the largest female elephant in Europe.

to ensure that, as a team, we promote health and safety, deliver best value, continually improve our service and customer focus, and ensure that we proactively meet our statutory responsibilities and objectives.

Key areas of expertise: In our job, legislation changes constantly and we have to keep abreast of any new laws, initiatives, codes of practice, etc. I am here to offer technical support to businesses, guidance on legislation and advice on any enforcement action. I also accompany the team on inspections where necessary.

Current workload: The work of the Health and Safety team is extremely varied. We work with a diverse range of businesses and provide advice and assistance on all aspects of Health and Safety. Campaigns planned for the next six months include slips and trips, noise, asbestos, violence at work, handling goods safely, occupational asthma and hand arm vibration disease reduction. Although we enforce Health and Safety, we are also very keen to offer practical advice to any new or existing businesses. Currently, we are working on the recent changes to the Control of Noise Regulations. Historically, any establishment that played music was exempt from these regulations. From April 2009, every establishment that plays music, has live bands playing etc. must now comply with these regulations to ensure the health and safety of their staff and clients. The team must visit these entertainment premises to monitor noise levels. The team also work with over 500 premises that have their own private water supply, for example from lochs and burns. The team test the water regularly to make sure it meets the legal requirements for public consumption and we source grant aid to fund any work required for improvements. We also monitor the water quality at public and private swimming pools.

Did you know? Stirling Council’s Health and Safety team deal with 2,758 commercial premises from small corner shops up to the largest which is Prudential/Capita with almost 3,000 staff.

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Activity to urism businesse s in the National P ark benefi te d from the productio n o f “Go Smile Outdoors”.

LEADER update feature Tourism businesses around Loch Lomond have benefited from the “4Bs” bus service.

How your business can get its hands on European LEADER cash!

Businesses in Bandeath Industrial Estate will be able to use the new community hub in Throsk.

As reported in previous editions of Stirling Eye, the Forth Valley and Lomond area has been awarded £2.77 million to allocate to projects which ‘Revitalise Rural Communities’ or ‘Conserve the Natural Environment’ between now and 2013 through the Forth Valley & Lomond LEADER Programme. 5. Start up businesses in the Doune and

LEADER is part of the Scottish Rural

LEADER is designed to be flexible and

Development Programme (SRDP) and has

straightforward to apply for – the application

Kilmadock area, as a result of the

been set up to fund pilot or innovative

and appraisal process is quite separate from

Kilmadock Development Trust business

projects that support the wider objectives of

the main SRDP funds, which means it is a

plan for converting the Old Bakery into

the SRDP as well as meet the aspirations of

much quicker process and development

office space for lease.

the local area.

staff are available to help you think through

6. Tourism businesses around Loch

your project and application. It also means

Businesses in the rural area can benefit from

Lomond, as a result of the 4Bs bus

a wide range of activities and types of

LEADER funds in four different ways:

and bike service (boots, bus, bikes and

organisations are able to apply.

boats).

They can benefit from better facilities

Examples of businesses who have benefited

or services that another organisation in

from LEADER funding in the past include:

of the Throsk Hub project which will

1. Food producers and food retail businesses

provide them with meeting room

space.

their area has applied for (e.g. a new technology that has been brought to the area). l

They can benefit from a mini-grant scheme that has been set up by a public agency (e.g. the local Council) but funded by LEADER.

across the area, as a result of the Buy

7. Businesses in Bandeath as a result

Local Directory and Visitor Map (which

“This isn’t an exhaustive list;” explained

has subsequently been reprinted).

Anne-Michelle Ketteridge, Manager of the

2. Outdoor activity operators, as a result of the Go Smile Outdoors campaign. 3. Businesses in Strathard, as a result of

LEADER Programme; “it just demonstrates the many ways businesses can, and do, benefit from LEADER funding. LEADER

They can benefit from a project that

tourism marketing workshops run on

must be one of the most accessible parts

their local business association has

a transnational basis, followed by an

of European funding, so I would encourage

applied for (e.g. a marketing scheme

e-Tourism training course on maximising

any business or community organisation

that has some innovative angle to it).

the potential of participants’ websites.

with a well-researched idea for a rural

They can apply for funds directly if

4. Businesses across rural Stirling, as a

project, which is supported by the local community, to contact us.”

their project idea will benefit the wider

result of the Scottish Enterprise led

community and they can demonstrate

rural broadband initiative (back when

Go to www.fvl.org.uk for more

support for their project.

broadband was a relatively new concept!).

information, or to note your enquiry.

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Hotel developments feature The hotel sector in Stirling is a vital component of the tourism infrastructure. Ensuring that visitors to Stirling have a choice of top quality accommodation options is essential if we are to continue to grow tourism locally. There have been a number of key developments recently.

Adamo Hotels The transformation of two hotels (formerly The Queens in Bridge of Allan and Osta in Stirling) to an exciting new hotel group, Adamo Hotels, is now complete. Both hotels are part of the developing Adamo Hotels brand, which will soon include a further new property on King Street – situated in the very heart of Stirling’s old town. This new property will feature superb boutique hotel accommodation, conference space, restaurant, bar and its very own late night venue – completion of this redevelopment project is expected in autumn 2010. Stirling based Adamo Hotels offer a range of stylish accommodation, restaurants offering locally sourced seasonal produce, private spaces for parties and events and weekend late night venues. www.adamohotels.com

All new for iconic Hydro The Dunblane Hydro, one of Scotland’s

rooms with break out areas and

most admired hotels has unveiled a new

syndicate rooms, all complete

name and a new look, following a multi-

with the latest audio-visual

million pound renovation.

equipment and presentation

To be known as Doubletree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro, the hotel’s luxurious new look combines contemporary style with

aides. Everything from smaller training days to conferences with 600 delegates can be successfully managed.

ageless elegance. A new restaurant, The

Tricia Fitzsimons, General Manager commented:

Kailyard by Nick Nairn is due to open in

“The transformation of the Hydro is truly remarkable

November 2009 and is sure to add to the

and we are all delighted with the positive feedback

overall ambience of this timeless classic.

and praise from both leisure and corporate clients.”

200 beautifully appointed rooms

www.dunblanehydrohotel.com

incorporate sumptuous furnishings, stylish design and subtle lighting. In each, Dreams” bed. A number of suites and

Colessio - Stirling’s first 5 star boutique hotel

feature rooms are also available, offering

Planning permission has been granted for Colessio, Stirling’s first 5 star boutique hotel and

breathtaking views, superior toiletries and

spa. Award-winning local entrepreneur Steven McLeod is planning to build the five-star

welcome gifts.

luxury boutique hotel and spa in one of the city’s historic buildings. The conversion of the

the centrepiece is a welcoming “Sweet

The ultra chic Lounge Bar offers an array of cocktails, fine wines and malt whiskies.

former Forth Valley NHS headquarters in Spittal Street into a world-class 40-bedroom hotel with restaurant and spa will be a major asset to the tourism offering in Stirling.

For a more sedate pace, the Stuart Lounge

Colessio will be a combination of executive rooms, suites and penthouses. It will also

offers oversized luxurious couches,

feature Satsuma, a contemporary restaurant which will boast a “big name chef” at the

feature fireplace and occasional live

helm, a champagne and cocktail piano bar built in a glass atrium and an elegant ballroom

entertainment. For the business market, the hotel offers an extensive range of conference

with capacity for around 180 guests for weddings and events. Colessio is planned to open in Spring 2010 – for more information and updates please visit www.colessio.com www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Economic facts Population and Households Figure 1: Population

Stirling 2001-2008 % Change 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Stirling Scotland

Total Population

86,200

86,150

86,370

86,930

87,810

88,190

88,350

2.5%

2.1%

Working Age Population

53,771

53,501

53,667

53,268

53,588

54,310

54,367

54,341

1.1%

2.8%

Total Number of Households

35,544

35,961

36,454

36,658

36,958

37,164

37,328

37,555

5.7%

6.2%

and

Households

Source: General Register Office for Scotland

Employment Rate

Unemployment Rate

Figure 2: Employment Rate (as % of Working Age Population)

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

Employment rate

76.0

75.0

74.0

2005

2008

Source: Annual Population Survey (Nomis)

4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.0

August 2004

Stirling Scotland

August 2009

Source: Claimant Count with Rates and Proportions (Nomis)

Growth in Number of Jobs 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2001-2007 2001-2007 Figure 4: Jobs Growth Change % Change Stirling

42,100

Scotland

41,300

40,900

42,800

45,600

46,500

47,900

5,800

14%

2,299,800 2,279,500 2,307,000 2,340,000 2,398,800 2,377,200

2,407,700

107,900

Source: Annual Business Inquiry (Nomis)

Enterprise 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2002-2008 2002-2008 Figure 5: New Business Change % Change Starts Stirling Scotland

449

534

460

452

474

480

351

-98

-21.8%

18,518

21,468

20,808

21,383

23,468

25,041

20,028

1,510

8.2%

Source: The Committee of Scottish Clearing Bankers

Business Survival Rates 66 65.5 65 64.5 64 63.5 63 62.5 62

2002 2004 Year business started up

Source: Business Demography (Office for National Statistics)

Stirling Scotland

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

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

Stirling Scotland

400 No. VAT Reg. business per 10,000 population

3 Year Survival Rate - %

Figure 6: 3 Year Business Survival Rate of Newly Born Enterprises

Business Density

350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

2000

2007

Source: VAT Registrations and De-Registrations (Nomis)

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

Active Businesses, Business Births and Business Deaths Figure 8: Businesses in 2007 – Percentages based on Stock of Active Businesses

Stirling – Number

Stirling - %

Scotland - %

395 250 3,315

11.9% 7.5% -

13.3% 8.5% -

Business Births Business Deaths Stock of Active Businesses

Source: Business Demography (Office for National Statistics)

Industry

Occupational Distribution

Figure 9: Employment by Industrial Sector, Stirling, 2007

Figure 10: Occupational Distribution, Stirling, 2008

Occupational Distribution of workers in Stirling, %

Employment by Industrial Sector, %

Source: Annual Business Inquiry (Nomis)

Source: Annual Population Survey - Workplace Analysis (Nomis)

Qualifications

Visitors to the Stirling Area

% of working age population

Figure 11: % of the Working Age Population Qualified to SVQ Level 4+ (or equivalent) and % with No Qualifications, 2008 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

SVQ Level 4+ No qualifications

Figure 12: Visitors to Key Attractions in the Stirling Council Area Visitors 2007 2008 Argyll’s Lodging

50,573

Bannockburn Heritage Centre

61,410

40,925

Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park

433,070

412,589

Mugdock Country Park

559,695

622,375

National Wallace Monument

135,000

117,466

Old Town Jail

30,719

27,045

Stirling Castle

389,011

375,344

40,859

51,438

Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum Stirling

28,470

Source: Visit Scotland; Mugdock Country Park; Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park

Scotland

Source: Annual Population Survey (Nomis)

Earnings Figure 13: Average Gross Weekly Earnings of people working full time

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2002-2008 % Change

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

£425.9 £369.3 £376.4 £371.7

£428.4 £381.8 £377.8 £381.3

£419.7 £390.6 £390.1 £390.4

£455.3 £409.8 £382.6 £408.6

£472.1 £427.9 £419.3 £428.1

£479.9 £440.9 £434.2 £441.5

£493.2 £461.8 £452.8 £460.1

15.8% 25.0% 20.3% 23.8%

Source: Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (Nomis)

www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye

STIRLING EYE

Focus on the local economy

McClure Naismith LLP in association with Stirling University Innovation Park Ltd are running a number of free legal workshops for local businesses: l Tuesday 27th October – morning – Strategic partnering: Working with agents and distributors. l Tuesday 17th November – morning – Employee or not employee? l Tuesday 8th December – morning – Managing suppliers and customers in a downturn.

Forthcoming events/training Free Business Gateway training events October 2009 29th evening – Stirling – Advertising and Promotion.

November 2009 4th evening – Alloa – Women Into Business (Presenting &

Selling).

12th morning – Alloa – Advertising and Promotion. 17th evening – Falkirk – Improve Your Search Engine Ranking. 26th evening – Falkirk – Mastering Selling Part 1. 30th evening – Falkirk – Mastering Selling Part 2. 30th evening – Stirling – Book Keeping – 1.

To find out more and register, call 01786 448333 or visit www.suip.co.uk

December 2009

Each event will begin at 9.00am with coffee, registration and a networking opportunity, with the workshop beginning at 9.30am. The day will conclude at 12.15pm with a light buffet lunch and a further opportunity to network.

2nd morning – Stirling – Improve Your Search Engine Ranking.

At the end of each event, representatives from McClure Naismith and the Innovation Park will be available for 1:1 advisory sessions between 1.00pm and 2.30pm.

9th afternoon – Alloa – Marketing Your Business.

Connect Scotland Investment Conference The Connect Scotland Investment Conference is being held in Edinburgh on 5th November. This chargeable event promises to offer up to £45 million of funding to cutting edge technology businesses. Businesses with compelling investment propositions who are seeking growth finance are invited to come forward and pitch for between £500,000 to £3 million funding from investors at this one day event. For more information visit www.connectscotland.co.uk

Service contacts Building Standards & Licensing, Stirling Council Joyce Wighton, Tel: 01786 442032, email: eoadmin@stirling.gov.uk City Centre Management, Stirling Council Andy Kennedy, Tel: 01786 442534, email: kennedya2@stirling.gov.uk Culture and Adult Learning, Stirling Council Lynne Gibbons, Tel: 01786 432360, email: gibbonsla@stirling.gov.uk Economic Development & Tourism, Stirling Council Tel: 01786 442467, email: business@stirling.gov.uk Employability Service, Stirling Council Gordon Wright, Tel: 01786 442866, email: wrightg@stirling.gov.uk Environmental Health & Trading Standards, Stirling Council Leslie Fisher, Tel: 01786 432180, email: eoadmin@stirling.gov.uk Planning, Stirling Council Peter Morgan, Tel: 01786 442914, email: morganp@stirling.gov.uk Rates Team, Stirling Council Alison McLean, Tel: 01786 443236, email: rates@stirling.gov.uk Waste Services, Stirling Council David Hopper, Tel: 01786 443038, email hopperd@stirling.gov.uk

1st evening – Stirling – Book Keeping – 2. 2nd morning – Alloa – Get Real Results From Your Website. 2nd evening – Stirling – Women Into Business (Business

January 2010 13th morning – Stirling – Trading Online. 19th all day – Alloa – Book Keeping 1 & 2. 28th evening – Falkirk – Customer Care.

To book your free place call 0845 609 6611 or check www.bgateway.com for up-to-date listings.

Useful web links Business Gateway – www.bgateway.com Forth Valley College - www.forthvalley.ac.uk Forth Valley Construction Forum - www.forthconstruction.co.uk Forth Valley and Lomond LEADER – www.fvl.org.uk Funding Search Facility – www.stirling.gov.uk/funding The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park - www.lochlomond-trossachs.org Lottery Fund – www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/scotland Property Search Facility – www.stirling.gov.uk/property Raploch Urban Regeneration Company – www.raploch.com Scottish Chambers of Commerce – www.scottishchambers.org.uk Scottish Enterprise – www.scottish-enterprise.co.uk Scottish Government – www.scotland.gov.uk Scottish Parliament – www.scottish.parliament.uk Stirling Business Directory – www.stirling.gov.uk/directory Stirling Business Panel – www.stirling.gov.uk/businesspanel Stirling Council Business Pages – www.stirling.gov.uk/business Stirling Enterprise (STEP) – www.stirling-enterprise.co.uk Stirling Eye – www.stirling.gov.uk/stirlingeye Stirling University Innovation Park – www.suip.co.uk Trossachs Rural Mentoring Scheme – www.ruralmentoring.co.uk University of Stirling – www.stir.ac.uk VisitScotland – www.visitscotland.org VisitStirling – www.visitstirling.org

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

Planning).

Design by The Write People, Stirling Tel: 01786 445022 www.thewritepeople.co.uk

2009 Autumn Legal Workshop Series