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Peter Stone Consulting Limited perform all consultancy services with due skill and care, in accordance with
generally accepted management consultancy principles and practices. All analyses, conclusions and
recommendations are made in good faith and on the basis of information available at the time. The
responsibility for any financial or other losses incurred by the client as a result of following any advice given
remains with the client.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative
Black Swan
Ritz Cinema
FINAL EVALUATION
March 2009
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 2
Peter Stone Consulting
1 Oddfellows Terrace
North Church Street
Bakewell
Derbyshire
DE45 1DB
07711 764994
www.pstoneconsulting.co.uk
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 3
CONTENTS CONTENTS CONTENTS CONTENTS
Page Page Page Page
1.1.1.1. Executive SummaryExecutive SummaryExecutive SummaryExecutive Summary 4
2.2.2.2. Consultancy BriefConsultancy BriefConsultancy BriefConsultancy Brief 6
2.1 Background
2.2 Tender Specification
3.3.3.3. MethodologyMethodologyMethodologyMethodology 8
4.4.4.4. Context of the SchemeContext of the SchemeContext of the SchemeContext of the Scheme 11
4.1 Description of the Area
4.2 Background to the Scheme
4.3 Management and Administration of the Scheme
4.4 Publicity
4.5 Overview of Major Projects
5.5.5.5. FindingsFindingsFindingsFindings 17
5.1 Analysis of Funding, Outputs and Outcomes
5.2 Management and Administration
5.3 Strategies, Activity and Initiatives in Belper
6.6.6.6. Measuring Additional Impact of the SchemeMeasuring Additional Impact of the SchemeMeasuring Additional Impact of the SchemeMeasuring Additional Impact of the Scheme 28
6.1 Economic Impact
6.2 Environmental Impact
6.3 Impact upon Crime and Disorder
6.4 Impact upon Tourism
6.5 Impact upon the Local Community
6.6 Sustaining the Impact of the Scheme
7.7.7.7. ConclusionsConclusionsConclusionsConclusions 35
8.8.8.8. RecommendationsRecommendationsRecommendationsRecommendations 37
AAAAppendix Oneppendix Oneppendix Oneppendix One Bibliography 38
AAAAppendix Twoppendix Twoppendix Twoppendix Two Steering Group Questionnaire 39
AAAAppendix Threeppendix Threeppendix Threeppendix Three Belper and Milford Maps 40
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 4
1.1.1.1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARYEXECUTIVE SUMMARYEXECUTIVE SUMMARYEXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1 Peter Stone Consulting Limited was retained by Derby and Derbyshire
Economic Partnership to undertake a Final Evaluation of the Belper and Milford
Townscape Heritage Initiative. The Scheme began in October 2004 and ended on
31st March 2009. In February 2007, Peter Stone Consulting Limited also
undertook the Mid Term Evaluation; information from the mid-term evaluation
has been drawn upon as evidence in this Final Evaluation.
1.2 The Evaluation of the Scheme was undertaken between 23rd February and
6th March 2009 using desktop research and analysis of existing paperwork,
street surveys and interviews with interested parties.
1.3 The Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative has delivered a
significant level of improvement across the Belper and Milford areas. It achieved
its overall aim “to make the area more competitive and attractive to local
shoppers and to build on the opportunity of the World Heritage Site status of the
area to create a world class tourist destination”. With the exception of jobs
created, all of Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership’s outputs for the
Scheme have been achieved or over achieved.
1.4 Environmental and heritage improvements to both residential and
commercial properties have had a positive impact on the communities in terms
of increasing a strong heritage identity and promoted genuine civic pride
amongst its local residents.
1.5 The Scheme raised the quality of the tourist experience and economic
activity and may have contributed to a reduction in crime and disorder.
1.6 Systems for monitoring individual project applications, determining
approvals and following project progress were found to be robust throughout
the Scheme. However, there has been slippage of the overall Scheme, which has
led to a reduction in investment.
1.7 Good infrastructure and groups are in place to take the heritage agenda
forward in the area.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 5
1.8 Ideally, for any future investment in similar heritage programmes, funding
should be flexible and spread over a longer period. If funding is accessed
through government schemes with annualised accounting, projects need to have
robust forecasting systems and trained staff to manage the complex funding
plan. Funding processes must anticipate long lead times to: ensure momentum
is maintained; capitalise on the hard work of staff in developing trust with
private property owners and; ensure properties can be reinstated or repaired to
a high standard with as few delays as possible.
1.9 Although further funding from existing sources, Derby and Derbyshire
Economic Partnership, Heritage Lottery Fund, Derbyshire County Council, Belper
Town Council and Amber Valley Borough Council is unlikely to be realised in the
short term, there is a need for some form of public sector investment into a
similar Scheme to maintain the quality and heritage of Belper and Milford.
1.10 Help for businesses to survive over the coming months in these difficult
economic times would be beneficial. Although Belper appears to be less
affected at present by the economic conditions, any assistance would clearly be
welcomed. The DDEP created and funded business support, marketing and
Survive & Thrive events offered through Business Link across the area, including
one which is to be in Belper, are designed to help businesses through the
current economic situation.
1.11 There were some concerns about the introduction of the new 2 hour
parking on Green Lane. A review by Amber Valley Borough Council is
recommended to monitor the impact on local trade.
1.12 It is recommended that in order to promote the work of the Scheme to the
wider community, the findings of the Townscape Heritage Initiative Report
should be disseminated more widely.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 6
2.2.2.2. CONSULTANCY BRIEFCONSULTANCY BRIEFCONSULTANCY BRIEFCONSULTANCY BRIEF
2.2.2.2.1111 BackgroundBackgroundBackgroundBackground
The Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative is a Market Town
Regeneration Initiative which has targeted key buildings and areas within Belper
Town Centre and the adjoining settlement of Milford.
The overall aim of this five year project is to make the area more competitive
and attractive to local shoppers and to build on the opportunity of the World
Heritage Site status of the area to create a world class tourist destination.
The project consists of four key strands:
• Building RepairsBuilding RepairsBuilding RepairsBuilding Repairs – repairs to target commercial properties in King Street and
the Market Place and to the Strutt Housing including structural repairs, re-
roofing and replacement windows and rainwater goods.
• Reinstatement of Architectural DetailReinstatement of Architectural DetailReinstatement of Architectural DetailReinstatement of Architectural Detail – reinstatement of lost architectural
features to commercial buildings in King Street, the Market Place and to
Strutt Housing; including reinstatement of traditional shop fronts and
removal of inappropriate features.
• Bringing Vacant Floor Space into UseBringing Vacant Floor Space into UseBringing Vacant Floor Space into UseBringing Vacant Floor Space into Use – to increase the vitality and viability of
the town by bringing vacant space into economic use - the key target area is
the Market Place.
• Enhancing Tourism AppealEnhancing Tourism AppealEnhancing Tourism AppealEnhancing Tourism Appeal – key tourism appeal works aimed at creating a
quality historic environment and infrastructure for national and international
visitors.
The project has been public and private sector funded with the majority of
public sector grant funding being supported by the Derby and Derbyshire
Economic Partnership and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 7
2.22.22.22.2 TenderTenderTenderTender Specification Specification Specification Specification
Peter Stone Consulting Limited has been retained by the Derby and Derbyshire
Economic Partnership to conduct a Final Evaluation of the Belper and Milford
Townscape Heritage Initiative with specific reference to the:
• total amount of project spend
• breakdown of public, private and lottery funding into the project
• outputs, outcomes and impact achieved to date
• an evaluation of the additional impact proposed future works will have for
the project
• overall sustainability of the project
• future prospects for the project
The tender brief advised that the consultancy would require:
• consultation with Amber Valley Borough Council and the Heritage Lottery
Fund;
• at least one site visit to the area and;
• the undertaking of a desk based assessment of project related paperwork
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 8
3.3.3.3. METHMETHMETHMETHODOLOGY ODOLOGY ODOLOGY ODOLOGY
The methodology adopted for the Final Evaluation involved both qualitative and
quantitative methods to assess the requirements of the brief:
• total amount of project spend
• breakdown of public, private and lottery funding into the project
• outputs, outcomes and impact achieved to date
• an evaluation of the additional impact proposed future works will have for
the project
• overall sustainability of the project
• future prospects for the project
To confirm expenditure, funding, outputs and outcomes; evidence was gathered
primarily from the project files and records and monitoring information held by
Amber Valley Borough Council (AVBC) including monitoring returns as reported
to Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership. A meeting with Wendy Burridge,
Funding Officer, and inspection of project documentation formed the basis for
this element of the report.
An in-depth assessment of properties was carried out during the Mid Term
Evaluation. Now, at the end of the Scheme, 75 projects have been successfully
completed. The table overleaf shows the properties selected for further
examination.
Face-to-face or telephone interviews were conducted with commercial property
owners/managers. Two were revisited from the Mid Term Evaluation, five new
ones and three residential property owners as indicated in the table overleaf. An
assessment of the project file was carried out which covered the financial
monitoring and management, outputs and review of evidence of the process
from application to contract, viewing invoices and referencing payments back to
the reconciliation sheets and Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership
quarterly claims.
This process was not an audit, but merely a “spot check” that adequate systems
were adopted. In order to draw out some views and opinions, a range of
techniques has been used to gather information to complement the factual
evidence:
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 9
• Street surveys were carried out with the general public during the
morning of 24th February 2009, along King Street, near British Red Cross
& Hallmark (7–9 King Street), Fresh Ground Café/Bar (61 King Street) and
Romac (78 King Street) to determine the views of people who live in and
around or visit the town and use the services.
• Face-to-face and telephone interviews were carried out with commercial
property owners or managers and telephone interviews were conducted
with a sample of residential property owners between 24th February and
5th March 2009.
• Visits to three premises were undertaken on 24th February 2009, and
others were viewed from the street. These were 5 King Street, 7–9 King
Street, Fresh Ground Café/Bar and Romac.
Property Property Property Property
RefRefRefReferenceerenceerenceerence
Scheme TypeScheme TypeScheme TypeScheme Type Interview Interview Interview Interview ––––
TelTelTelTelephone/ ephone/ ephone/ ephone/
FaceFaceFaceFace----totototo----FaceFaceFaceFace
Evaluation AssessEvaluation AssessEvaluation AssessEvaluation Assess----
ment on Project File ment on Project File ment on Project File ment on Project File
Carried OutCarried OutCarried OutCarried Out
Joseph Street Residential � Telephone �
Congregational
Church
Residential � Telephone �
Hopping Hill,
Milford
Residential � Telephone �
5 King Street Commercial
(currently to let)
Viewed property
from street
�
7–9 King Street Commercial Viewed property
from street
�
Romac Commercial � Face 2 face �
The Ritz
Cinema
Commercial �Telephone � Overview of data
carried out for Mid
Term evaluation
Fresh Ground
Café/Bar
Commercial � Face 2 face � (Carried out for
Mid Term
evaluation)
All members of the Steering Group were invited to complete an e-questionnaire
(shown as Appendix Two). There was an 82% response rate from group members
who provided information about the benefits and challenges of the Scheme, the
impact upon residents, businesses and visitors to Belper, sustainability of the
work already carried out by the Scheme and how it could best be progressed.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 10
Interviews were conducted with Jeremy Fenn of the Heritage Lottery Fund and
Richard Peats, Paul Drury Partnership, appointed by the Heritage Lottery Fund to
oversee the day-to-day delivery of the Scheme.
Desk research was carried out to review available data relating to tourism, crime
and community safety and the impact of the current economic conditions facing
the country, not only Belper. Telephone conversations provided information
about residential property values in Belper and other initiatives that contribute to
the regeneration of Belper, such as the World Heritage Site and the Green
Commercial Centres project.
New data created during the life of the Scheme was hard to find, and
establishing externally generated evidence was difficult to source.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 11
4.4.4.4. CONTEXT OF THE SCHEMECONTEXT OF THE SCHEMECONTEXT OF THE SCHEMECONTEXT OF THE SCHEME
4444.1.1.1.1 Description of the AreaDescription of the AreaDescription of the AreaDescription of the Area
Belper is an historic market town in the Borough of Amber Valley, lying in the
heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, which was inscribed in
December 2001. It is eight miles north of Derby, on the A6, by the River
Derwent, and has a population of 20,548 (2001 census). The town has
experienced a long period of economic decline due to the collapse of the textile
industries which have now virtually ended.
The main focus of the commercial activity of the Belper and Milford Townscape
Heritage Initiative is in and around the Market Place and the top of King Street,
the main shopping street in Belper. Although the gradient is not steep, the
Memorial Gardens creates a natural divide between this area and the lower end
of King Street. Opposite is the Green Lane development, on the former site of
Green Hall, the Strutt family residence. This now houses the national retail chain
M&Co, and a bar which have opened in recent months. The Ritz Cinema is
located here, next to the Memorial Gardens, and has proved to be the “jewel in
the crown” of the Scheme, stimulating economic activity.
Popular Farmers’ Markets take place monthly on the Market Place attracting
around 20 stalls and are well attended by visitors and local people.
The Clusters residential area which leads from King Street via Green Lane is
within the Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative. The area is of
particular heritage and historical value to the town.
The residential area within Milford, including East and West Terrace and Hopping
Hill, also form part of the Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative.
Appendix Three shows the specific eligible areas which are covered by the
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative.
4444.2.2.2.2 Background to the Background to the Background to the Background to the SchemeSchemeSchemeScheme
The Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative began in October 2004 and
has been running for five years. The aim has been to make the area more
competitive and attractive to local shoppers and build on the World Heritage Site
status. It has been an ambitious plan with 75 individual projects completed - 53
residential and 12 commercial properties, 4 public realm projects and 6
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 12
feasibility studies. The evidence gathered for the Final Evaluation from the
Steering Group, property owners and the Heritage Lottery Fund Officer has
shown that the quality of works undertaken has been high, that there are
significant benefits for the local area and, key stakeholders, funding partners,
commercial property owners and local residents alike have been very positive
about the results of the Scheme.
A number of the properties have benefited from more than one application
under one of the four strands: repairs, reinstatement of architectural detail,
bringing vacant floor space into use and enhancing tourism appeal.
Beneficiaries have found the process smooth and easy to understand. The
Scheme supports both residential properties and commercial premises and is
due to finish on the 31st March 2009.
4444.3 .3 .3 .3 Management andManagement andManagement andManagement and Administration of the Scheme Administration of the Scheme Administration of the Scheme Administration of the Scheme
For the majority of the lifetime of this project, two staff members were employed
to be responsible for running the Scheme, Francesca Machin – Project Officer
(full-time) and Elizabeth Rowbottom - Administration Assistant (3 days per
week). Francesca left in December 2008 and Elizabeth retired in April 2008. In
addition, their work has been supported by Amber Valley Borough Council
Officers, from the service areas of Planning, Regeneration, Finance and Legal.
Wendy Burridge, Funding Officer, has overseen the conclusion of the project
from January 2009.
4.44.44.44.4 PublicityPublicityPublicityPublicity
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative has had regular publicity
through the local media such as Belper Community News, Belper News and BBC
Radio Derby and Derbyshire Life. The Scheme also picked up two regional
awards from the Royal Town Planning Institute’s East Midlands Planning Awards.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative appears to be a major
component of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site (DVMWHS); its
achievements are recognised in the Annual Report 2007/08.
The Project Officer contributed regularly to The “World Heritage News from the
Derwent Valley” with updated information and news about the Belper and Milford
Townscape Heritage Initiative. Belper Townscape Heritage Initiative has 2 full
pages within Issue 8 2008 DVM Newsletter.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 13
4.54.54.54.5 Overview of Major POverview of Major POverview of Major POverview of Major Projectsrojectsrojectsrojects
Of the 75 projects completed as part of the Scheme, all have made a
contribution to the overall impact on Belper, but some stand out as particularly
meeting the objectives of the Scheme. This is evidenced through comments from
local residents, the Steering Group and other stakeholders. Furthermore the
larger projects have a long lead time from initial discussions with property
owners to their final completion.
Of greatest significance to the town continues to be The Belper Ritz Cinema, an
independent cinema offering a variety of films in a high quality environment
which draws people from out of town and in turn provides new trade for the
nearby shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. The Congregational Church has also
been recognised as making a significant difference to the town, particularly as it
was in a very poor state of repair prior to the investment.
The Ritz Cinema development, for example, was two years in the development
phase. Once the grant was approved (£140,000 towards a £250,000 project),
the major works were completed between April and October 2006, with first
screenings taking place in early November 2006. The benefits to the town of this
particular project have been huge. The Ritz owner mentioned that there are
many examples of her customers enjoying a film and then using the other
services in the town for shopping, food and drink. The owner did indicate that
the newly implemented 2 hours parking has hindered customers, to the extent
that they have to leave part way through a film to “feed the parking meter”.
Other customers simply leave Belper straight after the film and do not have time
to use other services in the town.
Public HPublic HPublic HPublic Hall andall andall andall and The The The The Ritz Cinema before and after works Ritz Cinema before and after works Ritz Cinema before and after works Ritz Cinema before and after works
From this …………………… to this
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 14
A further example of a major project is the Congregational Church, which began
in March 2005 and finally completed in March 2008 (£180,000 grant) with the
total cost of works of £300,000. There were many challenges to this prominent
development, not least the change of use from church to residential property
and the sensitive repairs required for the building.
Congregational Church Congregational Church Congregational Church Congregational Church –––– completed March 2008 completed March 2008 completed March 2008 completed March 2008 ---- Cost: £300,000 Cost: £300,000 Cost: £300,000 Cost: £300,000
Repairs:
. Stained glass windows
. Reroofing
. Stonework
. Pointing
. Step realignment
. Repair to wrought iron
balustrade
. Doors
“Without the grant, it is very unlikely that the
work would have been done on the
Congregational Church”.
Simon Foote Architects
“The Townscape Heritage Initiative helped to
save the Congregational Church, it would have
fallen down without the investment”.
Steering Group Member
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 15
Evidence of a Public Realm project is the Masterplan for the Market Place. It
commenced in February 2007 and was completed in August 2007. The report
sets the vision for the Market Place area. It will not have immediate physical
benefits to Belper, but has highlighted how the market place could be improved
in the long term. Currently, the Market Place is used for the monthly Farmers’
Markets which continue to attract visitors and shoppers.
Public Realm Public Realm Public Realm Public Realm ---- Cost: £68,160 Cost: £68,160 Cost: £68,160 Cost: £68,160
. Consultation with stakeholders
. Public presentation
. Interim report
. Final report with 3 potential options for development
. Final public presentation
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 16
The Herbert Strutt School Feasibility Study is another project completed under
the Public Realm strand:
The Herbert Strutt School The Herbert Strutt School The Herbert Strutt School The Herbert Strutt School ---- Cost: £14,900 Cost: £14,900 Cost: £14,900 Cost: £14,900 ---- completed June 2008 completed June 2008 completed June 2008 completed June 2008
Work undertaken:
. Production of Feasibility Report for potential future uses of the former
school
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 17
5555. FINDINGS. FINDINGS. FINDINGS. FINDINGS
5.15.15.15.1 Analysis of Analysis of Analysis of Analysis of Funding, Outputs and Funding, Outputs and Funding, Outputs and Funding, Outputs and OutcomesOutcomesOutcomesOutcomes
Figures included in the financial table below have been extracted from the
Townscape Heritage Initiative original approved budgets (column a), column (b)
shows the confirmed expenditure based on the latest quarterly claim and
column (c) shows the final anticipated amounts of expenditure when the project
concludes on 31st March 2009. Figures include the cost to administer the
Scheme, the evaluation as well as grants and feasibility studies.
FundingFundingFundingFunding Planned Planned Planned Planned
Lifetime Total Lifetime Total Lifetime Total Lifetime Total
(a)(a)(a)(a)
Actual Spend Actual Spend Actual Spend Actual Spend
to December to December to December to December
2008 (b)2008 (b)2008 (b)2008 (b)
Planned Planned Planned Planned
expenditure expenditure expenditure expenditure
to 31 March to 31 March to 31 March to 31 March
2009200920092009 (c)(c)(c)(c)
Variance Variance Variance Variance
between between between between
(Column(Column(Column(Column
a a a a –––– b b b b ---- c)c)c)c)
Derby and
Derbyshire
Economic
Partnership/
EMDA
£718,246 £559,882 £9,700 -£148,664
Heritage Lottery
Fund
£1,000,000 £974,791 £10,718 -£14,491
Amber Valley
Borough Council
£291,000 £259,794 £4,594 -£26,612
Derbyshire
County Council
£50,000 £50,000 £0 £0
Belper Town
Council
£28,900 £28,900 £0 £0
Private Sector £812,125 £723,481 £5,562 -£83,082
TotalTotalTotalTotal £2,900,271£2,900,271£2,900,271£2,900,271 £2,5£2,5£2,5£2,596,84896,84896,84896,848 ££££30,57430,57430,57430,574 ----£272,849£272,849£272,849£272,849
The Heritage Lottery Fund approved a grant of up to £1m over the 5 years. The
Heritage Lottery Fund is supportive of ‘heritage-led’ economic regeneration and
sees that the area is of heritage and tourism significance. A very popular
Heritage Trail and interpretation panel has been created in the residential area of
The Clusters. Work by local residents to their own properties has enhanced this
area for visitors.
The priority properties identified in the original Action Plan have been completed
and the Steering Group are generally happy that the most appropriate properties
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 18
were targeted and completed with private sector investment matching public
funds. Recognition of the commitment that businesses and indeed home-
owners have made throughout the investment and the high standards of
workmanship adopted by architects and builders have also been recognised by
staff, the Steering Group and local residents alike.
The Scheme has been financed with a complex mix of funding. Derby and
Derbyshire Economic Partnership works on the basis of a three year maximum
funding contract with annual allocations of revenue or capital. The Heritage
Lottery Fund offers funding on a five year timeframe and private sector
investment is reliant upon the confidence and commitment of a number of
private individuals and business owners.
More recently, following the Mid Term Evaluation, there were delays in agreeing
the funding package for 2007/08. The final application to Derby and Derbyshire
Economic Partnership for Phase II funding was submitted by Amber Valley
Borough Council on 5th March 2007 and the ‘Single Programme Agreement for
Grants’ letter was provided on 12th June 2007. This was finally signed by both
parties on 9th July 2007. The level of grant was £181,300 which, together with
an evaluation fund of £9,700, offered a total of £191,000. This was to be
matched by £191,000 from Amber Valley Borough Council.
Throughout the Scheme, Amber Valley Borough Council, Heritage Lottery Fund,
and Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership worked on a number of options
to help to progress works. However, given the complex nature of the Scheme,
some delays did occur.
Following this time of uncertainty, Amber Valley Borough Council and the THI
Steering Group examined the risks and took the decision not to use the Phase II
allocation from Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership. Therefore the
scheme was reduced and capital works were completed within the existing
budget funded from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the private sector and Amber
Valley Borough Council.
With complicated projects such as this, using a raft of different funding streams,
it is crucial that all of the demands of the Scheme are built into the programme
management plan to allow adequate time for decisions to be made, to maintain
confidence for private investors and to avoid delays and loss of momentum on
the project in general.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 19
OutputsOutputsOutputsOutputs ********Planned Planned Planned Planned
Lifetime Lifetime Lifetime Lifetime
TotalTotalTotalTotal (a) (a) (a) (a)
Actual to Actual to Actual to Actual to
December December December December
2008200820082008 (b) (b) (b) (b)
Planned to Planned to Planned to Planned to
31 March 31 March 31 March 31 March
2009 2009 2009 2009 (c)(c)(c)(c)
Variance Variance Variance Variance
between between between between
((((Columns a Columns a Columns a Columns a ––––
b+c)b+c)b+c)b+c)
*C1a Jobs created 4.6 2.6 0 -2
*T1 Job creation
(replacing C1a in May
07)
2 2 0 0
C4 new business (12
month survival)
1.5 1.5 0 0
*KPI 21
housing/employment
floorspace (msq)
(replaced S10a & S10b
in May 07)
7,384 10,727 542 +3,885
*S10a new/refurb
employment
floorspace (msq)
560 0 +560
*S10b new/refurb
housing floorspace
(msq)
1,685 2,674 0 +989
* Output KPI 21 replaced both S10a and S10b in May 2007 and T1 replaced C1a in May
2007 when EMDA released their new targetry framework.
** The planned lifetime figures are taken from the Mid Term Evaluation.
The data tables do not give a full picture of the activity on the ground, and
additional evidence gathered provides information about the impact of the
Scheme from the perspective of local businesses, visitors and the community.
Analysis of Steering Group ConsultationAnalysis of Steering Group ConsultationAnalysis of Steering Group ConsultationAnalysis of Steering Group Consultation
All 11 Steering Group members were contacted to complete the survey. 9
completed questionnaires were submitted, giving an 82% response rate.
Steering Group members were generally very happy with the achievements of the
Scheme. One respondent commented that all of the residential and commercial
projects have played their part in raising the heritage standards, so no one
project stood out. Some of the specific highlights identified were:
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 20
• Positive partnership working of the Steering Group
• Willingness of local people to get involved and their enthusiasm for the
Scheme
• Key buildings restored, such as The Ritz, Congregational Church and
Romac
• The number of small residential properties that have been completed
• Many residents have had the opportunity to improve their homes
Some 50% of the respondents noted that the uncertainty of the funding had
delayed or disrupted projects which emphasises the need for careful planning
when a project relies upon a complex funding package.
When asked whether the correct properties had been targeted, the response
from those consulted was unanimously positive, although a few negative
comments about particular projects which were not perhaps personal priorities
were received. These included the suggestion that the Coppice Car Park should
not have been a priority, the Market Place Study was too costly, and that the
Market Head was disappointing.
The Steering Group were asked what they hoped people would remember about
the Scheme, giving the following responses:
• The legacy is of lasting refurbishment/restoration of heritage sensitive
buildings, both public and private
• Progress made in 5 years from a fairly non-descript dormitory town to a
far more vibrant and distinctive market town
• That relatively modest funding can have a massively beneficial effect upon
a town such as Belper
• The huge difference it made to the top of King Street and the Market
Place
• Co-operation between the people of Belper, community groups and
public sector bodies – good partnership working
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 21
Romac Motor Equipment Store, 78 King StreetRomac Motor Equipment Store, 78 King StreetRomac Motor Equipment Store, 78 King StreetRomac Motor Equipment Store, 78 King Street
Completed Completed Completed Completed –––– November 2008 November 2008 November 2008 November 2008
Total Cost £46,994 (grant £31,949)Total Cost £46,994 (grant £31,949)Total Cost £46,994 (grant £31,949)Total Cost £46,994 (grant £31,949)
Before
After
Reinstatement:
. Shop front
. Increased floor space
. Cast iron rainwater goods
“We’re very pleased with the
reinstatement, it is doubtful whether
the work would have been done
without the grant”
Romac Manager
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 22
5.25.25.25.2 Management andManagement andManagement andManagement and Administration of the Scheme Administration of the Scheme Administration of the Scheme Administration of the Scheme
The Project Officer and Administration Assistant handled the day-to-day activity
of the Scheme, maintaining contact with the range of property owners. Staff had
a good rapport with residents, commercial property owners, builders and
architects alike, evidenced by comments from each group during the interviews.
As a result of working in such a way, costly delays for the owners were
minimised.
Evidence gathered confirms that project files and information were well recorded
and that there were clear guidelines for any projects with slow spend and
everything was done to ensure each project worked towards agreed deadlines.
The Scheme has been overseen by a local Steering Group who meet regularly.
Members include representatives of the three local authorities - Town, Borough
and County Councils; the Project Officer for the World Heritage Site; local
residents and organisations from the Belper and Milford areas and conservation
specialists.
Further detail about the systems and structures that have been in place during
the Scheme can be found in the Mid Term Evaluation Report produced in
February 2007.
Evidence gathered from Heritage Lottery Fund Officers, project staff and Steering
Group members indicates that large capital projects within a Scheme of this
nature have long lead times, typically up to 2 years but these can be as long as 3
years in the case of projects such as Belper’s Congregational Church. The
Scheme needs to be flexible enough and with long lead times to work with
private sector investors who, in many cases, will put a significant level of
personal finance into their project. Project staff worked consistently hard to
promote the Scheme, develop interest and build a level of trust, confidence and
understanding with private sector property owners to move to the delivery stage
of each project.
Now the Scheme is complete, and staff are no longer in post, Amber Valley
Borough Council must ensure that robust and appropriate systems are in place
to meet funding conditions with regard to audit requirements, future impact of
the project and the claw-back of funds should properties be sold.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 23
Application Process for Residential PApplication Process for Residential PApplication Process for Residential PApplication Process for Residential Propertiesropertiesropertiesroperties
Of those interviewed, respondents found the process of applying for and
receiving grants to be “very” or “fairly” easy.
The heritage advisors were praised for their support and knowledgeable advice.
Despite problems such as negotiating with Highways for erecting scaffolding;
getting an appropriate heritage quality finish or getting the correct heritage
specification for windows, people were happy with the process.
Respondents were very pleased with the work that they have had done and there
was a mixed response as to whether the work would have been done anyway. It
is likely that work would not have been done to the same standards or level of
investment. Respondents said that, if they had been asked 6 months ago, they
would have considered that property values had increased following the works,
even if it was a relatively small level. The current economic climate has,
however, lowered residents’ expectations. Evidence from Hannells Estate Agents
has confirmed that prices, especially of the older properties in Belper, have
remained strong and sales in Belper have held up better than their other
branches, despite trends in the national property market.
36 George Street 36 George Street 36 George Street 36 George Street –––– Completed June Completed June Completed June Completed June 2007 2007 2007 2007
Total Cost £5,864Total Cost £5,864Total Cost £5,864Total Cost £5,864 (grant £4,691 (grant £4,691 (grant £4,691 (grant £4,691))))
Before
After
Repairs:
. 5 sliding sash windows
. 1 casement window
. 1 hopper window
. Front door
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 24
5.35.35.35.3 Strategies, Activities and Initiatives in BelperStrategies, Activities and Initiatives in BelperStrategies, Activities and Initiatives in BelperStrategies, Activities and Initiatives in Belper
Much of the official quantitative evidence gathered for this Final Evaluation has
not been updated since the Mid Term Evaluation. A review was carried out of
the broad strategic documents as well as plans covering themes and issues of
direct community concern such as the proposed Tesco development and crime
and community safety.
Economic information has been gleaned from the 10 year AVBC Regeneration
Strategy 2005 – 2015, latest tourism figures for Derbyshire and The Peak District
(which includes Belper) which date back to 2007 when the last official data was
gathered and crime and disorder figures from the Amber Valley Community
Safety Plan 2008 – 11.
New primary evidence collected in the surveys offers qualitative information and
is anecdotal. It provides up-to-date information from professionals and local
residents about the impact of the Scheme.
People involved in the Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative, the
private sector investors and beneficiaries of commercial and residential
properties and also the general public overall, confirmed that the Townscape
Heritage Initiative raised heritage standards and ‘civic pride’ in the area. With
commercial premises offering quality places to eat and drink and the Ritz
cinema, a more diverse evening economy has developed. Overall the ‘offer’ has
improved for visitors and local people generated by the significant heritage
regeneration of the high street and heritage residential areas, which are of
interest to visitors and the local community.
Private sector investment has played a significant role in the Scheme.
Commercial confidence is critical to any further investment which may occur
following the completion of the Scheme, particularly in the current economic
climate.
“The area looks lovely, Townscape Heritage Initiative
really has revived this end of town”.
Local Resident
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 25
Should any future public funding be identified and secured, it is likely to consist
of a mixture of funders with different criteria, therefore realistic forecasting and
robust project management techniques must be in place so as to avoid the
delays in funding that have had an impact upon this project. The results of
which have led to a loss of momentum which could in turn lose commercial
confidence. There is evidence, from this report, that delays in securing future
funding brings uncertainty for project staff which also needs to be planned for.
There is overwhelming support and acknowledgement that the staff team has
been one of the main factors in such a dramatic and positive turnaround of
confidence in the project and in maintaining the momentum.
Fresh Ground Café/BarFresh Ground Café/BarFresh Ground Café/BarFresh Ground Café/Bar
Fresh Ground have been pleased with the work and resulting trade since its
completion although the owner did report concerns about the new parking
policy of limiting parking to 2 hours in Green Lane and feels that it is beginning
to result in visitors to Belper cutting their visit short and not having time to
explore everything that Belper has to offer. However, it is important to note that
parking on the Coppice Car Park, just off the Market Place, is free of charge.
This car park was improved as part of the Townscape Heritage Initiative.
Green Commercial CentresGreen Commercial CentresGreen Commercial CentresGreen Commercial Centres
This is an initiative supported by Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership
through the Amber Valley Partnership (Local Strategic Partnership). Funding was
Fresh Ground with completed frontage
After
Before
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 26
approved in July 2008 for a three year project across each of the Market Towns
in the Amber Valley. There are three strands:
I) Shop front improvements
II) Resource Efficiency Grant
III) Commercial Space Green Grant
Of particular significance to the Belper Townscape Heritage Initiative is the shop
front improvements strand. This grant has tended to be taken up by tenants
wishing to repaint the shop front and add a new sign. A grant is available up to
£10,000 with a 50% match funding element. Three shops’ fronts have been
awarded a grant in Belper. This grant helps to improve the image of Belper High
Street through the creation of more attractive shop fronts. However, it is not as
in depth as the Townscape Heritage Initiative, which assists physical repairs of
the structure of buildings as shown in the example below:
7 to7 to7 to7 to 9 King Street 9 King Street 9 King Street 9 King Street ---- c c c completed May 2007ompleted May 2007ompleted May 2007ompleted May 2007
Cost: £3,474 (grant £2Cost: £3,474 (grant £2Cost: £3,474 (grant £2Cost: £3,474 (grant £2,,,,779)779)779)779) under Townscape Heritage Initiative under Townscape Heritage Initiative under Townscape Heritage Initiative under Townscape Heritage Initiative
After works
Works:
. Sliding sash windows to front
. Original window alignment
. 2 stone sills
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 27
Derwent Valley Partnership Schemes in Conservation AreasDerwent Valley Partnership Schemes in Conservation AreasDerwent Valley Partnership Schemes in Conservation AreasDerwent Valley Partnership Schemes in Conservation Areas
This grant scheme covers the World Heritage Site including the Belper and
Milford Conservation Area and aims to promote economic regeneration. Grant
funding can contribute towards external structural repairs and the reinstatement
of lost external architectural detail. The Partnership Grant Scheme is funded by
English Heritage, the County Council, Amber Valley Borough Council and Belper
Town Council.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 28
6. 6. 6. 6. MEASURING ADDITIONAL IMPACT OF THE SCHEMEMEASURING ADDITIONAL IMPACT OF THE SCHEMEMEASURING ADDITIONAL IMPACT OF THE SCHEMEMEASURING ADDITIONAL IMPACT OF THE SCHEME
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative is a significant programme of
activity that has affected economic, social, tourism, heritage and environmental
aspects of the town. In order to explore how the Townscape Heritage Initiative
has and can continue to have an impact on the area, research was carried out on
the wider context, influences and strategic activity that is also playing its part to
make improvements for the local community and visitors to the area.
6.16.16.16.1 Economic ImpactEconomic ImpactEconomic ImpactEconomic Impact
The Amber Valley Regeneration Strategy 2005 – 2015 indicates that “[within] the
World Heritage Site and national heritage corridor, Belper has the potential to
become a major draw for visitors”. The Regeneration Strategy indicates that for
the years between 2003 and 2005 there had been an increase in footfall figures
from around 2,000 to 2,750 and High Street vacancy rates remained fairly
constant at around 4–5%. The Townscape Heritage Initiative is likely to have
contributed to these figures, in conjunction with the World Heritage Site status
that the town enjoys. A comment from a Steering Group member indicates how
the Townscape Heritage Initiative has contributed:
The main objective within the Amber Valley Community Strategy 2006 – 2009
that the Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative contributes to is the
“Thriving Economy and Employment” theme. Through direct action with
businesses supported by the World Heritage Site status, it will also help towards
other aims to: ‘Develop Prosperous Market Towns’ and ‘Establish a Strong
Tourism Base’.
Steering Group members were asked about the impact the Scheme has had on
local businesses. Sixty-two percent (62%) of respondents made the point that it
had enabled businesses to make the most of their premises and improve their
overall appearance. For those businesses that haven’t yet benefited, the Scheme
may prompt them to raise their standards or make them aware of the process
“Belper & Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative has
helped the town to be far more attractive as a
destination for visitors, its distinctiveness is now
easier to appreciate”.
Steering Group Member
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 29
should any future funding be available to help them. It was felt that the Scheme
has showed a better face to Belper.
The residential areas have also seen a vast improvement. Richard Peats of Paul
Drury Partnership mentioned that some people are volunteering to do heritage
improvements to their properties. The collective benefits to tourism have
enhanced the visitor experience around The Clusters area. Hannells Estate
Agents in Belper confirmed that compared to their other offices, Belper’s
residential market has held up better than other areas. In particular the older
houses have remained attractive and have performed better than the newer
housing estates.
6.26.26.26.2 Environmental ImpactEnvironmental ImpactEnvironmental ImpactEnvironmental Impact
Coupled with the benefits of the World Heritage Site status, the work completed
through the Scheme has made an extraordinary environmental impact on Belper
and Milford.
Properties, both commercial and residential have been repaired or reinstated to
a high standard. Local builders have, on the whole, been employed to undertake
works, which raises the experience and skill level for future years.
6.36.36.36.3 Impact uImpact uImpact uImpact upon Crime and Dpon Crime and Dpon Crime and Dpon Crime and Disorderisorderisorderisorder
From the previous Community Safety Strategy 2005 – 2008, an Alcohol Free
Zone was introduced into the town centre which promotes sensible drinking
habits. A Shop Watch Scheme continues to be used by around 80 businesses. A
Radio Link scheme keeps businesses in touch with each other. One shop
manager mentioned that whilst it is useful, fewer shops are turning on the radio.
Larger shops, which are naturally bigger targets for theft, are not keeping the
“Businesses in the new cultural quarter do appear to
be very busy despite the economic climate”.
Steering Group Member
The Scheme has made people more aware of the
heritage around them and to develop pride in where
they live”. Steering Group Member
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 30
smaller ones informed. It is difficult to determine whether the Townscape
Heritage Initiative has contributed to reductions in crime figures, as there has
also been significant input from the Community Safety Team. It is true that the
Scheme has provided a wider range of activities that attracts a broader range of
people to the town centre in the day and evenings. This includes the Belper Ritz
Cinema and food and drink establishments as well as a good range of local
shops. An increased number of people visit the town at night and this may help
to reduce levels of crime and fear of crime.
Amber Valley Community Safety Plan 2008-2011 will focus on four objectives,
three of which will have an impact on Belper Town Centre:
• To reduce anti-social behaviour – by improving perception and to
reduce the fear of crime and develop safer and cleaner environments
• Assault with Injury - To reduce alcohol related violent crime and harm
caused by alcohol and drug misuse
• Acquisitive Crime – to reduce thefts of vehicles and drug use
Comparatively, crime levels in Belper are relatively low now than in recent years.
Information from the Amber Valley Community Safety Partnership - Strategic
Intelligence Assessment 2008 confirmed that Belper still does suffer from petty
anti-social behaviour and nuisance, often related to alcohol. In the past Belper
suffered from drug related issues but this has now reduced over the past 8
years.
6.6.6.6.4444 Impact Impact Impact Impact upon Tourismupon Tourismupon Tourismupon Tourism
Visitor numbers to the town were around 725,000 in 2001 (an estimation was
made for this Scheme, based upon the Amber Valley Borough Council Tourism
Economic Impact Assessment 2000 research). Due to changes at a regional
tourism level, Derbyshire has upgraded its methodology from the Cambridge
model to the ‘STEAM’ (Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Monitor) model
of capturing and assessing visitor numbers and statistics. As a result, directly
comparative figures are not available until base line figures are re-established.
However, figures gathered for Derbyshire and the Peak District area from the
STEAM research model suggest a slight increase in the economic impact of
tourism when the Scheme began in 2004 (£1.37bn) and 2007 (£1.4bn). Visitor
numbers were slightly less in 2007 (36.07m) compared to 2004 (36.25m). Spend
by day visitors reduced from £908.52m in 2004 to £899.65m in 2007.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 31
As at February 2009 and partly due to the restructuring of Amber Valley Borough
Council, no fresh visitor information was available. The Derwent Valley Mills
World Heritage Site (DVMWHS) Co-ordinator, Adrian Farmer, also confirmed that
visitor numbers were not being collected specifically for Belper. However,
Adrian commented that the Townscape Heritage Initiative works have
contributed to the tourism appeal, in particular for visitors enjoying the Heritage
walks around The Clusters.
During April 2007 to April 2008, DVMWHS carried out a random survey of 693
visitors to the key sites. Of significance to Belper, the survey found that 9.2%
were foreign visitors and 16.7% were repeat visitors. The age split showed that
the Over 60’s were the majority visitors:
Under 24 - 12%
24–44 - 18%
45-59 – 33%
Over 60 - 37%
Visits to the DVMWHS website also suggest a high level of interest. Between
April 1st 2007 and March 31st 2008, the www.derwentvalleymills.org website
was visited by, on average, by 392 visitors per day.
A research report produced for Visit Britain entitled ‘Domestic Tourism and the
Credit Crunch’ produced in October 2008, suggests that whilst people see a
holiday as a necessity rather than a luxury, there is a strong desire to save
money. This may also have a positive impact on Belper, and day visitor numbers
may benefit the town due to its proximity to Derby and Nottingham.
Further information from Visit Britain also suggests that the value of inbound
travel trade is set to decline in 2009. This will affect visitor numbers who may
have been attracted by the World Heritage Site, which includes Belper.
Anecdotally, the Fresh Ground Café/Bar owner commented that her trade has
withstood the fears of the economic downturn. As people are affected directly by
job losses or know of others being made redundant, potential customers may
“Housing area of The Clusters gives a good
impression of Belper for visitors who enjoy the
heritage trail around this part of Belper”.
Steering Group Member
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 32
turn to support their local economy as they can see how their cash can make a
real impact locally.
The Steering Group were also asked about the impact of the Scheme upon
visitors. They considered that the Scheme has made the town more attractive,
lively and varied. The lovely buildings now show off the architecture and the
cinema has brought in lots of visitors, some stated.
6.6.6.6.5555 Impact Impact Impact Impact uuuupon the Local Cpon the Local Cpon the Local Cpon the Local Communityommunityommunityommunity
People surveyed on 24th February for the Final Evaluation covered a broad age
range, from 20’s to over 60, both male and female. Properties that people had
used were the Ritz, Black Swan Public House and local shops. Comments upon
the quality of work, included “looks lovely”, “it is a big improvement, excellent”.
Everyone surveyed felt that there is a good mix of local shops and services in
Belper town centre.
When asked what benefits this sort of regeneration brings to Belper, people
thought that it is now a place where people want to come, it is a bonus and that
it was a good use of public money. The popularity of the cinema was mentioned
in that there is a high demand for some films. On the whole, people felt Belper
to be a better place to live.
When asked about further investment, everyone recognised the impact so far,
and that further investment would help to improve the whole area. However, it
was noted that the scheme is reliant upon property owners and their willingness
to invest.
Steering Group members recognised the significant numbers of people who had
improved their homes. They considered that people are pleased with the
Scheme, evidenced by them having only good things to say about it.
The Scheme has created a more attractive appearance of the town and facilities
have improved, especially in Upper King Street/Market Place and it has improved
people’s lives by making the town more attractive and lively.
6666....6666 Sustaining the Sustaining the Sustaining the Sustaining the IIIImpact of the Schemempact of the Schemempact of the Schemempact of the Scheme
Since the Mid Term Evaluation it is clear that the town is growing considerably
with commercial and residential developments along the A6 and around. Other
proposed developments such as a Tesco store in the lower area of Belper nearer
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 33
the A6 lead some to fear that the focus may be drawn away from the heart of the
town, and indeed damage the Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative’s
heritage work. It is therefore important that the legacy of the Townscape
Heritage Initiative is firmly built into sustainable future strategies for Belper and
close alignments with the Derwent Valley Mills Partnership and Belper Civic
Forum, for example, are maintained.
By speaking to local people, it has been possible to get an understanding of
some of the tangible benefits and impact that the scheme is having on the town.
For example:
• The Ritz Cinema and Fresh Ground Café/Bar continue to work together to
better serve their customers - such as serving ‘twilight meals’ before cinema
showings.
• Fresh Ground has extended its opening hours and is now offering themed
evenings such as a Spanish Evening planned for March 2009.
• From evidence gathered when speaking to The Ritz’s owners, the
membership scheme has proved very popular. There is a wide range of films
in the monthly programme, including classics and foreign language films.
The target audience is older people, couples and families as popular films are
shown on the “second run” which is up to four weeks after release. This does
not generally appeal to the teenage market, who often want to see films
immediately they are released. The current busy period can be put down to
the ‘Oscars’ season with many people wanting to watch the same films.
Occupancy levels are around 66% over weekly screenings.
• The Cinema, Fresh Ground Café/Bar and the Hall of Frames shop are working
collaboratively - with mirrors and pictures from the shop being shown on the
café walls. This is a good example of businesses working collaboratively
which is likely to be as a result of the Scheme.
“One of the finest independent cinemas has been
established in the town with a bistro-style eating
quarter to support it, offering a top quality experience
for residents”.
Steering Group Member
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 34
• Local builders and craftspeople have worked on a number of projects,
improving their heritage building skills which has raised the quality of their
workmanship and therefore the quality of the properties.
• The Amber Valley Partnership’s Green Commercial Centres Project offers
some assistance to retailers in the form of green grants to improve and
maintain their shop frontage and reduce their carbon footprints.
• The commitment of local Councils and the Belper Civic Forum add to the
strength and potential for the sustainability of any future investment in the
heritage regeneration of Belper.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 35
7777.... CONCLUSIONSCONCLUSIONSCONCLUSIONSCONCLUSIONS
By referring back to the overall aim of this five year project, which was “to make
the area more competitive and attractive to local shoppers and to build on the
opportunity of the World Heritage Site status of the area to create a world class
tourist destination”, it can be said that this has been achieved. Each group that
was interviewed offered an overall positive sense of the Scheme and outputs
have been achieved.
The Evaluation has found evidence that the area has improved economically,
house prices in the older parts of town have remained buoyant and better than
other market towns; people do enjoy shopping in Belper and businesses see
people travelling from further afield and spending more time in the town. The
local community and the Steering Group also endorse that the heritage of the
town is better preserved now and more visible, thus contributing to the aim to
create a world class tourist destination.
The Scheme has not worked in isolation. Probably the most significant influence
is the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site status. In addition, other work
such as that undertaken by the Amber Valley Borough Council Regeneration
Team, Belper Town Council, Community Safety Partnership and Rural Transport
Partnership, have all contributed to public sector investment. The lasting legacy
for Belper must be the tremendous enthusiasm and investment of the private
sector. For Belper, this has not been multi-national developers, but the 53
residential individual property owners and 12 business people who have
invested in the heritage and economic future of the town.
Crime figures are now relatively low in Belper, but vehicle crime, low level anti-
social behaviour and alcohol-related crime can give an overall perception of
crime and contribute to the fear of crime. The greater use of the town during the
evening by people of all ages is likely to have contributed to its increased safety,
coupled with the direct action of the town being an Alcohol Free Zone.
The Green Commercial Centres’ funding via Amber Valley Partnership and Derby
and Derbyshire Economic Partnership has also complemented the Scheme. It
has enhanced the street with freshly painted shop fronts and new signage. This
has been mainly taken up by the tenants, with their landlords’ agreement, to
develop their business opportunities. The Townscape Heritage Initiative has
been able to offer more substantial grants to physically repair or reinstate
heritage features and thus have more of a direct impact on property prices.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 36
Generally the infrastructure and partnerships are in place to ensure Belper will
continue to develop in harmony with the legacy of the Townscape Heritage
Initiative. The Town Council and Borough Council both have a commitment to
Belper and other areas such as the River Gardens will contribute to the overall
improvement of the town.
The proposed Tesco development continues to be a concern for the town, with
the possibility of drawing trade away from the town, and fears of a loss of retail
diversity on the High Street.
Long-term car parking in Belper is not conveniently located. The new 2 hour
parking system has already had some detrimental effects on trade, particularly
for older visitors to the town. People are unable to spend time to explore other
services in the town.
Some form of future financial assistance is required to offer businesses support
to improve their properties, particularly in the current economic climate. At this
time more than ever before, businesses will have limited funds and will want to
invest wisely when making strategic decisions about their businesses and the
development of their properties.
“I’d like people to remember this about the Scheme –
The progress made in five years from a fairly
non-descript dormitory town to a far more vibrant and
distinctive market town”.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 37
8.8.8.8. RECOMMENDATIONSRECOMMENDATIONSRECOMMENDATIONSRECOMMENDATIONS
a. That any future work should be firmly embedded in area strategies and
link with existing partnerships and initiatives, such as the Derwent Valley
Mills Partnership; and Town and Borough Council Strategies.
b. That interest groups, such as the Belper Civic Forum, Friends of Riverside
Gardens and Friends of Belper Park groups should be supported as they
all play a part in maintaining the high heritage standards in Belper.
c. That the Accountable Body for the Scheme, Amber Valley Borough
Council, has appropriate procedures in place to audit the sale/resale of
commercial properties over the next 10 years since this is a direct
condition of grants with regard to claw back.
d. That for large projects, such as the Congregational Church, a client
account is held by the appointed architect on behalf of the client, as it
ensures the smooth financial running of the project and avoids delays on
the client side.
e. To promote the work of the Scheme to the wider community through the
production of a smaller booklet version of the THI Report for residents.
f. That ongoing funding may be required to ensure the gains achieved by
the Scheme are sustained.
g. That at an appropriate time, Amber Valley Borough Council review the
new 2 hour parking policy on Green Lane in order to monitor the impact
on local trade.
h. That any future heritage programme for Belper must be flexible with
appropriate consideration given to the lead times and varying criteria of
different funders to ensure momentum can be maintained and projects
completed that have a huge impact on the economy, built environment
and local community. This could be achieved in a number of ways –
including enlarging the scope and budget of the English Heritage-led
Derwent Valley Partnership Schemes in Conservation Areas Grant which
could satisfy much of the demand that remains from the Townscape
Heritage Initiative.
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 38
AAAAppendix One ppendix One ppendix One ppendix One ---- Bibliography Bibliography Bibliography Bibliography
InteInteInteIntervrvrvrviews/research undertaken withiews/research undertaken withiews/research undertaken withiews/research undertaken with
Wendy Burridge Funding Officer AVBC 25th February 2009
Jeremy Fenn Heritage Lottery Fund 2nd March 2009
Richard Peats Paul Drury Partnership 2nd March 2009
Adrian Farmer Coordinator Derwent Mills 3rd March 2009
Chairman Cllr Alan Cox THI Steering Group 2nd March 2009
Brenda Smithurst DDEP Head of Operations 9th February 2009
Stephen Jackson Regeneration Manager AVBC 2nd March 2009
Agent Hannells Estate Agents, Belper 4th March 2009
Street surveys with residents and visitors
Phone interviews with residential property owners
Face to face interviews with commercial property owners
Evidence and webEvidence and webEvidence and webEvidence and websites ussites ussites ussites used for this mid term evaluationed for this mid term evaluationed for this mid term evaluationed for this mid term evaluation
Websites:
Amber Valley Borough Council www.ambervalley.gov.uk
Derwent Valley Mills www.derwentvalleymills.org
Amber Valley Partnership www.ambervalley-partnership.org.uk
(under development at time of Evaluation research)
Belper Civic Forum www.belpercivicforum.org.uk
East Midlands Tourism www.eastmidlandstourism.co.uk
Visit Britain www.tourismtrade.org.uk
EvidenceEvidenceEvidenceEvidence
THI Steering Group questionnaire
On-street questionnaire
Residential and commercial property owner questionnaires
DDEP Sub-Regional Investment Plan 2008-11
Amber Valley Community Safety Plan 2008-2011
Amber Valley Community Strategy 2006–09
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 39
Appendix Two Appendix Two Appendix Two Appendix Two –––– Steering Group Questionnaire Steering Group Questionnaire Steering Group Questionnaire Steering Group Questionnaire
Belper THI Steering Group – Questionnaire February 2009
1. What have been the highlights and less positive elements of the Belper
THI programme (note up to three points for each)
2. Have the right properties/premises been targeted and supported? (Have
there been any specific issues that have had to be overcome?)
3. Has the Programme met its targets and achieved what the Steering Group
set out to accomplish?
4. What would you like people to remember most about this programme of
work?
5. What impact has the THI programme had on Belper, for:
a. Residents & people in its surrounding conurbation who use the
services?
b. Its businesses?
c. Its tourism visitors?
6. How can Belper ensure that it has a sustainable (social, environmental and
economic) future? What organisations, groups or structures need to be in
place to ensure it continues to be a thriving, historic market town?
7. Which relevant initiatives/strategies could the work of the Belper THI
programme link into, to ensure the heritage of Belper is sensitively
developed?
8. Is further investment in the Belper THI area required? If yes, how might
this be funded and what would it achieve?
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 40
AAAAppendix Three ppendix Three ppendix Three ppendix Three –––– Belper Maps Belper Maps Belper Maps Belper Maps
Belper and Milford Townscape Heritage Initiative Final Evaluation 41