Agenda item

Project Updates

Building a Better Customer Experience

JS provided a project overview to the Board. The Building Better Customer Experience is based on 3 strands.

·       Strand 1. Training in the workforce. Target of 1500 interactions through the Council’s MyLearning platform, working with Sefton Council Workforce Development Team. The course modules for Training the workforce are currently in development and will be progressed throughout the Autumn and Spring Terms 2023/34.

·       Strand 2. Training for Jobseekers, incorporating 320 modules for new and existing learners, working in partnership with Southport College. To date, the pilot modules have been delivered to 68 learners and received positive feedback on the content, and delivery methods. The modules have enhanced skills and increased learners’ confidence levels. The module development was based on 7 key principles and look to roll out to larger cohorts later in the school year. JS also confirmed that Equality is embedded, and focus groups will be set up to ensure the modules are suitable for everyone. The next stage is to work with employers to customise the modules and promote the programme. 

·       Strand 3. Training for volunteers and age +19 unemployed. Working with Adult and Community Learning assisting 300 individuals.  The classroom content will be developed with a view to create digital content to reach a wider Sefton based audience. The Adult and Community Learning working with the Tourism Department to produce a timeline of events and link with volunteering opportunities.

MB was able to provide feedback on Strand 2 from the Colleges’ perspective. Feedback has been positive from both the learners and employers. Customisation has been key; being able to flexibly respond to different clients’ requirements, whilst maintaining the ‘Southport Standard’. Project outputs are ahead of the delivery plan targets and new learners will be enrolled later in the Autumn term.

Enterprise Arcade

CW provided an overview of the Enterprise Arcade. Contractor procurement is underway with tender returns being evaluated. The aim being to commence works this year and open late 2024.

RF queried the contract period. CW confirmed the programme will be reviewed with the selected tenderer, but time has been allowed for the complex services separation from the adjacent buildings.   

Les Transformation

SW provided a progress update on Les Transformations. The programme is being reviewed to minimise impact on the Christmas trade period. The detailed design is being finalised. Contractor procurement is also progressing. The team are looking to minimise the impact on residents and businesses. More detail will be provided at the next board meeting.

RF queried if the contractor will be on board this year. SW confirmed that this is the expectation.

AN asked for clarification on the detailed design and if the traffic impact assessment can be shared. SW confirmed this can be included in the project update in December.

RA queried if there will be an opportunity to review the deign proposals and if planning is required for the proposals.  Confirmation of the approvals can be provided in the next project update.

Action: Detailed Project review including traffic Impact assessment to be presented at the next Board meeting.

MLEC

MC provided an update on the Marine Lake Events Centre. Hoarding has been erected and utility orders placed. The hoarding is currently blank, but the intention is to develop visuals as part of the social value work as well as provide local business support. Minor diversions, by BT and virgin media, and major diversions SPEN/MANWEB and United Utilities are progressing. This process is dictated by the statutory authorities but must be complete before demolition and sheet piling works ahead of the main contract. 

AN queried if the operator has been involved with the design and how they will support the Town and local businesses when operational. MC confirmed that ASM, as the preferred operator, has been involved with the design development, helping to ensure that the design enhances the customer experience and will not have an operational impact. ASM have a large team providing key insights from other UK sites as well as global contacts for the Water and Light Show.

Several applications to discharge the planning conditions have been lodged.

Social value will be tracked as part of the main contract works, but it is embedded in aspects of the project including consultants. Engagement to date included working with Southport college, local schools and Hugh Baird college.

RA queried if there will be any road closures along the promenade as part of the works. MC confirmed the diversion works are complex but will look to minimise disruption as much as possible, but some closures will be required. 

PH enquired about access to the Waterfront Hotel and sequencing of works. MC confirmed the existing building will be demolished and ramp access provided to ensure access will be unaffected by the main works. MC also confirmed that the project team are working closely with the hotel to progress party wall and other matters in relation to the project.