TheWatermark.pptVIP

The Watermark, Ivybridge: Meeting Needs, Raising Aspirations, Delivering Results Keith Brown Angela King Devon Reinvestment Service Devon Reinvestment Service Who are we? Partnership of Devon County Council (Regeneration), Wessex Reinvestment Trust Business in the Community What do we do? Assist communities to develop assets: Community engagement Partnership Building Property Development Skills Finance Business Planning Whole Project Management Approach Purpose Aims ‘Community Anchor’ to act as a ‘focal point’ for local service delivery Welcoming, bright, family-friendly space Bring increased footfall into the town Increase local business confidence encourage new enterprise Ultimately, to create a more sustainable, self-sufficient community Achievement so far…. Outcome: ‘Community Anchor’ / ‘Welcoming, friendly space’ Evidence (April 08-09): 7 day a week usage 200,000 visitors 161% increase in library visits 573 events/bookings 30,000 requests for info Volunteering – ‘Friends of’ group New local access to services e.g. CAB, new Ivybridge Carers Group Achievements so far….. Outcome: ‘Increased Business Confidence’ Evidence: High occupancy rates for Watermark business units 22 FTE posts numerous p/t posts Monthly business networking events Reinvigorated Chamber of Trade Nearly 50% less empty town centre shops; 13 businesses expanded / improved 9 new enterprises ￡50,000 spend on local food 66% of suppliers within 15 miles Recognised regionally/nationally! Why has it worked? Strong business case – built on evidence of need Strong dynamic partnership – vision determination Strong leadership project management Pooling of skills resources Strong PR marketing message On-going ‘check-back’ responsiveness throughout design/development beyond Robust monitoring evaluation – proving success Digging Deeper…. DRS help to uncovered demonstrate local issues needs around 5 themes: Employment prospects new business ideas Access to services Training,