September 2014: Update on AIMUp project. AIMUp Ltd held their second AGM in August 2014, with Chairman Gordon Donald reiterating the validity & importance of the project, & outlining what will be a decisive year ahead. AIMUp is pursuing the promise of a new outdoor and bike park facility with permanent uplift at Innerleithen, as a catalyst to regeneration, to add to the depth of attraction in the Tweed Valley so visitors come more often and stay longer. Data shows that whilst other parts of Scotland are seeing growth, our region, in tourism related figures for 2008 to 2013, sees a reduction in jobs, visitors, over night stays and to the contribution of this important sector to our region’s economy. AIMUp is still very much needed for the Tweed Valley & Scottish Borders. The last year has proved frustrating, particularly in relation to targeted “anchor” funding from EU grants (SRDP). The EU is still determining its grant structure, scale of funds and applicant acceptance criteria for these funds. We expect to know the outcome soon, with applications opening early 2015. In June 2014, AIMUp was included as one of four project areas when the South of Scotland Consortium (SoS), which comprises Scottish Borders Council, Dumfries & Galloway Council and Scottish Enterprise, presented its economic development programme with request for funding 2014 to 2016 to the Scottish Government’s John Swinney. SoS & AIMUp keenly await a response. Also in June we secured funding to engage a consultant to progress market research, which includes a survey leading to an update of the revenue models and business plan. This is vital work to ensure we are as fit as possible for any subsequent capital grant application. Currently, we await the outcome of an application for funds to support Phase 2 of our project. This would fund recruitment of a Development Officer and provide a budget to pursue for example land lease agreements. Borders Sport & Leisure Trust have offered support by making its communications and marketing resources available, and we are hugely appreciative of the professionalism it can add. We believe the year ahead will be decisive for AIMUp. Should funding not be confirmed either from EU sources or SoS, then the project will likely be closed down – other than for lobbying activity - until a funding option is identified. If capital funding can be secured, we look forward to confirming the date for breaking ground
Posted on: Mon, 08 Sep 2014 11:39:24 +0000
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