Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Lochaber Area Committee held in the Council Chamber, Lochaber House, High Street, Fort William on Thursday, 27 February, 2014 at 1.30 pm

Present:

Mr A Baxter, Mr B Clark, Mr B Gormley, Mr T MacLennan, Mr B Murphy

In attendance:

Mr D Haas, Acting Head of Community and Democratic Engagement
Mrs D Ferguson, Senior Ward Manager (Ross, Skye and Lochaber)
Ms E Tayler, Assistant Lochaber Wards Manager
Mr S MacNaughton, Head of Transport and Infrastructure, Transport, Environmental and Community Services
Mr C Kemp, Area Roads & Community Works Manager (Ross, Skye & Lochaber), Transport, Environmental and Community Services
Mr M Leary, Community Works Manager, Transport, Environmental and Community Services
Ms T Urry, Housing & Property Manager (South), Housing and Property Services
Ms M Cameron, Principal Housing Officer, Housing and Property Services
Mr S Dalgarno, Development Plans Manager, Planning and Development Service
Ms N MacKenzie, Employability Officer (Client Services), Planning and Development Service
Mr C Thomas, Research Officer, Planning and Development Service
Mr J MacDonald, ECS Learning and Leisure Client Manager, Education, Culture and Sport Service
Mrs N Young, Area Education Manager (West), Education, Culture and Sport Service
Miss J Maclennan, Principal Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr A MacInnes, Administrative Assistant, Chief Executive’s Office

Also in attendance:

Mr Robert Muir, Area Manager, Highlands and Islands Enterprise
Mr A Macleod, Outdoor Facilities & Events Manager, High Life Highland
Mr P Mascarenhas, Principal Adult and Youth Services Officer, High Life Highland
Mr S Jeffrey, Area Adult and Youth Services Officer, High Life Highland
R MacDonald, S MacDonald and D Foxley, Youth Development Work clients

An asterisk in the margin denotes a recommendation to the Council.  All decisions with no marking in the margin are delegated to the Committee.

Mr T MacLennan in the Chair

Business

1. Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mr A Henderson and Mr E Hunter.

2. Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following Declarations of Interest:-

Item 3 – Mr A Baxter (non-financial)
Item 4 - Mr A Baxter (non-financial)
Item 9 - Mr A Baxter (non-financial)
Item 10 - Mr B Murphy (financial)

3. Youth Work in Lochaber  
Obair Òigridh ann an Loch Abar

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Baxter declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds of being a trustee of The Buzz Project but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude him from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No. LA-1-14 (30kb pdf) by High Life Highland’s Principal Adult and Youth Services Manager dated 13 February 2014 which updated Members on youth work in the Lochaber area and how this linked to the youth work policy. It was followed by a presentation from young people on their involvement in youth work activities. 

It was confirmed that High Life Highland delivered Highland Council’s Youth Work policy which had 5 main aims: to enable young people to have a voice, partnership working, developing achievement frameworks, co-ordinating, integrating and developing provision and working with vulnerable young people. High Life Highland had a Youth Work presence around each of the four associated secondary school groupings in Lochaber and delivered a range of programmes.  Examples of the current programmes were detailed and how they met the 5 main themes. 

The Committee then heard a presentation from Rowan MacDonald, Steven MacDonald and Duncan Foxley on their own experiences of Youth Development work in the area.  Youth Development Officers had facilitated many activities for young people still in education such as visits of the screen machine to the area, Young Scot Cards, access to an indoor skate park in Dumbarton, youth club movie nights and trips.  Youth Development also enabled young people find positive destinations after school by providing assistance in composing CVs and applications for university.  An area at Mallaig High School had been identified as suitable for youth activity but had so far not been developed.

Youth Development Officers had also facilitated engagement with the HUG collective advocacy group, which represented the interests of users of mental health services across the Highlands.  A project had been established to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health problems through working with young people, the media and delivering awareness training to professionals.

During discussion, Members made reference to activities to encourage young people’s engagement in the democratic process in advance of the forthcoming Referendum.  Reference was made to the work of the Council’s Community Safety, Public Engagement and Equalities Committee which had sought to prioritise the engagement of young people and a number of events had already been held, including a referendum vote in Kinlochleven High School.  In this regard, it was confirmed that a high profile debate was being arranged for the Highland Youth Voice conference in late June specifically addressing the upcoming Referendum on Scottish independence.  This would take the form of a panel debate with young representatives from each of the main political parties and sought to encourage young people to register to vote.  It was hoped that the event would be webcast and be supplemented by online virtual debates through the Highland Youth Voice Facebook page.  

Thereafter, the Committee thanked those present for their informative contributions and NOTED the report.

4. HIE Overview of Lochaber Economy
Sealladh Coitcheann HIE air Eaconamaidh Loch Abar

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Baxter declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds of being a Board Member of Nevis Partnership and a member of the Kinlochleven Community Trust but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude him from taking part in the discussion.

Mr Robert Muir, Area Manager, Highland and Islands Enterprise (HIE), undertook a presentation to the Area Committee.  

He provided an analysis of population trends in the Lochaber area from 2001 to 2011 and detailed a change in age structure over this period which showed that overall the population had aged.  In terms of economic activity, over 10,700 people (73%) were economically active in 2011, higher than the Scottish average (69%).  This included a higher rate of part-time employees (16.6% compared with the Scottish average of 13.3%), a higher rate of self-employment (12.8% compared with 7.5% in Scotland), a lower percentage of unemployed (3.6% compared with 4.8% in Scotland) and a lower proportion of full-time students (1.7% compared with Scottish average of 3.7%).

Mr Muir outlined employment by sector at 2011, the occupational structure at 2011 and unemployment trends between 2005 and 2014.  Lochaber had a lower incidence of youth unemployment with 18.6% of unemployed in the area aged 18-24 as at January 2014.  Also, long-term unemployed accounted for 27.1% which was considerably lower than Scottish average.

In 2011 there were over 8,600 occupied households with a lower than average proportion of single person households (30.6%).  Almost 1,200 households were unoccupied and the area had a higher than average percentage of unoccupied spaces (12.2%,  compared with Scottish average of 4.1%).  10.3% of household spaces were second/holiday homes – compared with 1.5% across Scotland and 5.7% at the Highland level.

There was a greater rate of car ownership in Lochaber than in Scotland with 78.3% of all households in Lochaber owning at least one vehicle compared with 69.5% in Scotland.  19.8% worked mainly at or from home (10.8% across Scotland) and 12.2% went to work by foot which was higher than the Scottish average (9.9%).

There had also been tabled at the meeting maps provided by HIE detailing the progress of the roll out of Superfast Fibre Broadband throughout Scotland and covering Lochaber.  It was confirmed that up to date information was available on the HIE website.  There was currently good progress being made on this and that super-fast broadband would be delivered to 84% of properties in the Highlands and Islands.  A large proportion of the Lochaber area would be included in the early phase rollout.  HIE was currently in dialogue with communities and businesses to fill the gaps in provision and reference was made to the Locheilnet project which aimed to bring affordable super-fast internet to communities around Loch Eil.  

During discussion, information was sought on the rate of business start-ups and how successful these businesses had been, with an undertaking from Mr Muir to provide such detail in association with the Highland Council’s Business Gateway.  The accessibility of super-fast broadband was also vital to support small businesses and HIE would do as much as possible to ensure good connectivity was provided.  In regard to longer-term unemployment, the difference between assistance provided in urban and rural areas was explored and it was pointed out that, in many instances, the unemployment picture in rural areas might be distorted as individuals often left rural areas to move to more urban areas in order to find employment.

Continuing, confirmation was sought on whether the figures on economic activity recorded a widened differential between seasons since the recession, whether there were signs of emerging economic recovery and whether the tourist season was shorter than in the past.  Discussion also took place on what public organisations might do to help increase the tourist season and where it was highlighted that improved support from the financial sector would have a significant impact.  

Having thanked Mr Muir for his presentation, the Committee NOTED the report and AGREED that copies of the presentation be circulated to Members of the Committee.  

5. Population Change in Lochaber 2001 to 2011
Atharrachadh Sluaigh ann an Loch Abar 2001 gu 2011

There had been circulated Report No. LA-2-14 (486kb pdf) dated February 2014 by the Director of Planning and Development which presented early results from the 2011 Census, giving local information on the number and ages of people living within Lochaber.  It compared these figures with those from 2001 to show that the population had “aged”, and that there was a large number of people who were close to retirement age. The population of Lochaber had grown by 6.1% (compared to the Highland average of 11.1%) with an increase in both Wards, and at a local level in 18 out of 27 data zones. Local population growth was strongly linked to the building of new homes.

The most recently published results from the 2011 Census in November and December 2013 had informed the first detailed results for “census output areas” which represented the smallest areas for which results were published.  These detailed results had enabled preparation of the first 2011 Census profiles which were available for Wards, Associated School Groups, Community Councils and Settlement Zones on the Highland Council’s website.  The report set out how the age profile of the Lochaber population and total numbers had changed at a local level (data zones) and it indicated changes over the previous decade in each Ward, main settlements and by data zone.

The Research Officer gave a presentation drawing attention to the main points of the report, including an overview of the ageing population, general trends in population change and implications for planning and economic development, and local change by datazones.  Information was also provided on population changes in urban and rural areas, in individual wards and in major settlements.  Plans for future work on the census results were also detailed.

In discussion, while welcoming the data now available as a tool for forward planning, Members recognised that the information was multi-dimensional and cautioned against drawing simplistic conclusions from it.  Members commented in particular that it would be helpful if separate settlement zone information could be made available to them for Corpach, Caol and Fort William. 

It was unclear what had contributed to the increase in population in Argyll Road, Fort William and it was queried if figures from the Census could shed more light on this.  On the grounds that Lochaber had an aging population, the view was expressed that housing development in the area should aim to address this need.  It was also queried whether the information highlighted a need for additional industrial units in the area and whether it would be shared with HIE.  

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED that the last decade had seen population growth in Lochaber of 6.1%, lower than the Highland average, and also that:-

i. the Census results confirmed that the population was ageing and that we were
   about to see a significant increase in the number of retired people; and
ii. the strong links between economic growth, new house building and population
   growth.

The Committee also AGREED that Members be provided with settlement zone information separately for Corpach, Caol and Fort William.

6. Fort William Town Centre Regeneration – Update on Public Event
Ath-nuadhachadh Meadhan Baile a’ Ghearasdain – Fios às Ùr mu Thachartas Poblach

There had been circulated Report No. LA-3-14 (19kb pdf) dated 12 February 2014 by the Director of Planning and Development which updated Members on the Council’s recent successful bid to Scottish Government for grant funding towards undertaking a design workshop (or Charrette) aimed at delivering regeneration in Fort William Town Centre.  This opportunity followed the recent publication of a review of Scotland’s town centres, and a subsequent Town Centre Action Plan published by the Scottish Government.

It was explained that the Council had already undertaken preliminary pre-event discussions with local community groups and business representatives aimed at eliciting the active support and involvement of local people in promoting and encouraging involvement in the forthcoming charrette events.  A full analysis of the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Action Plan would be reported to a future meeting of full Council.

The aims of the proposed charrette for Fort William were to:-

• prepare an updated masterplan that identified projects that could achieve an increase in footfall from both tourism-related visits and local people thereby increasing investment in the centre;
• identify proposals for optimising access to and from the town centre as well as movement within and around the centre (particularly in the context of a vibrant harbour and beachfront area); and 
• explore mechanisms and funding processes for delivering improvements including the potential for a catalyst project.
  

In terms of timescales, it was proposed to hold events in mid/late April to allow time to sufficiently prepare for and engage communities.

During discussion, Members welcomed this initiative which was a great opportunity for Fort William at a time when a number of projects were being looked at i.e. the office rationalisation project in Fort William, the redevelopment of Cameron Square, the new Police Station and possible redevelopment site and more interest from retailers in the High Street.   In particular, it was hoped that rentals for shops in the High Street could be looked at, as it was felt that rentals had been on the high side for too long. However, it was encouraging to see some vacant retail units now being occupied, which could be a result of the ending of the empty property rates relief.  It was encouraging to note that a number of feasible actions could result from the initiative and not just longer term aims, but short term gains that could be introduced relatively quickly, for example by changes to Council policy.  The view was also expressed that this initiative was not just for the residents and businesses of Fort William but would be to the benefit of the whole of Lochaber and the Council should therefore do all it could to engage those living outside Fort William to take part.  In particular, young people should be encouraged to take part as they would eventually inherit the outcomes from the initiative. 

The Committee:-

i. NOTED the successful funding bid and current progress in preparations towards
   the charrette events aimed at delivering regeneration in Fort William Town
   Centre; and
ii. AGREED to continue assisting officers in promoting and positively engaging
   communities, businesses and local interest groups in the forthcoming charrette
   event.

7. Capital Investment in Schools in the Lochaber Area  
Cosg Calpa Foghlaim ann an Loch Abar

There had been circulated Report No. LA-4-14 (48kb pdf) dated 17 February 2014 by the Director of Education, Culture and Sport which provided an overview of the current and proposed investment in schools and community facilities in the area. The report also provided details of some of the potential benefits to the local economy in terms of employment and apprenticeships.

The Education, Culture & Sport (ECS) Service was carrying out a Sustainable School Estate Review (SSER) across the Highland Council area over a 10 year period. This review had already commenced in the Fort William area and the following changes were planned in the future education provision in the area:-

• replacing the existing Fort William Primary School and Upper Achintore Primary School buildings with a new combined Primary School at Lundavra Road; and
• replacing the existing Fort William RC Primary School, Lochyside Primary School and Caol Primary School with a new joint-campus school in Caol (this campus also to include a replacement for the existing Caol Community Centre building).
  

In addition, as a result of the Highland Council’s on-going commitment towards Gaelic Medium education, a new standalone Gaelic School was planned in Caol to serve the greater Fort William area.  Details of the total project costs, primary school capacities, indicative start/completion dates and contractors (where known) were provided in Appendix 1 to the report.  The estimated investment in school and community provision in Lochaber between May 2013 and February 2016 was estimated to be £51.5M.  This investment was within the approved ECS Capital budget. 

Members welcomed the significant capital investment in Lochaber, which was the largest investment for some time in the area, and was due to the hard work of Lochaber Members and Officials over a number of years.  In particular tribute was paid to former Councillor Dr M E M Foxley for his part in this process. The Lochaber area would not only benefit from new schools, but also additional community facilities. 

It was advised that one school not benefiting from this level of investment was Inverlochy Primary.  It was an excellent school which was well run by staff and work should be undertaken with the school to see what could be done to improve facilities there.   

The Committee NOTED and welcomed the level of investment in schools and community facilities in the Lochaber area along with the considerable education and skills benefits arising from the schools projects.

8. Corran  Ferry – Socio Economic Study of Ferry Fares
Aiseag a’ Chorrain – Sgrùdadh Sòiseo-eaconamach air Faraidhean Aiseige     

There had been circulated Report No. LA-5-14 (17kb pdf) dated 14 February 2014 by the Director of Community Services which reminded Members that the draft socio-economic study, prepared by AECOM consultants and circulated separately as Booklet A (1227kb pdf), had been considered by the Transport, Environmental and Community Services (TECS) Committee on 6 February 2014 and had now been issued for consultation.  As part of the consultation, the Area Committee was asked to provide views and comments on the report for submission to the next Community Services Committee to allow the Council to set a strategy for future fare increases at Corran Ferry.

It was explained that there had been an average 5.3% increase per annum on the total costs of running the Corran Ferry since 2002/03. This equated to a current cost rise of £54,000 per annum.  As part of the Revenue Budget agreed by the Council on 7 February 2013 it had been agreed to introduce a revised fares structure for the Corran Ferry to raise an additional £100k in income, this being in addition to the annual inflationary increase.  At the TECS Committee in September 2013 Members had also approved a 30p per trip increase in ferry fares to be applied from 1 November 2013 and deferred any significant increase in fares until the socio-economic study on fare level increases had been carried out.

The draft study report had also been issued for consultation to the local Community Councils and Argyll and Bute Council.

During discussion, Members commented on the draft socio–economic study as follows:-

• the study was welcomed as it provided good data to progress a strategy for future fare increases at Corran Ferry. There were a number of people in the area on low incomes and the fares on the Corran Ferry were an added cost that they had to face and this had to be borne in mind in the future strategy;
• any future strategy on fare increases on the Corran Ferry could have implications for the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry services serving the Isle of Mull and the Ardnamurchan peninsula.  In this respect, fares on the Corran Ferry should not be increased so high as to act as a disincentive for people to use the other ferry services, as tourists in particular liked round trips around the Islands; 
• the socio-economic study should have been produced before any increases in fares were introduced.  It was felt that it was now a pointless exercise to consult with the local community on a socio-economic study when fare increases, by the end of 2014, would have risen by 23% over 12 months.  In terms of the methodology and process for the study, the report should have taken into account different circumstances at a different time in the year and should not have been carried out during the winter season, a particularly quiet time when passenger use was at its lowest, and immediately after fare increases, when the real impact of these had not been felt; 
• those using the Corran Ferry on a regular basis did not want a strategy for future ferry fare increases but, instead, wanted a strategy for the long term future of the ferry crossing.  The interim fares increase proposed for 1 April 2014 meant a temporary arrangement and would no doubt mean further increases in future years.  What was needed instead was a permanent arrangement for the long term future crossing at Corran; 
• people using the ferry service on a daily basis paid a lot of money for these crossings.  An earlier strategy had considered using a commuter card as an option but that strategy had been rejected in the community consultation exercise.  However, some arrangement for regular commuters was something the Council could consider again.  Local people were vital to the long term sustainability of that area and it was important to try and do something to help them.   AECOM consultants could be asked as to what the socio-economic impact of a commuter card would be; 
• costs associated with the Corran Ferry would continue to rise e.g. fuel, but it was important to try and maintain increases in line with inflation.  Further, it was important not to be seen to be subsidising the ferry service, as it would put the Council in the position where it would have to put the ferry crossing service out to tender which might not be beneficial to the Ardnamurchan peninsula as current discounted tickets may not continue under another provider.  
  

Discussion then took place as to how best to report the views of the Lochaber Area Committee, taking into account all the points raised.

At this point the Committee adjourned at 3.40 pm and resumed again at 3.50 pm.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.  AGREED that the following be reported as the views of the Lochaber Area
   Committee:-

• that it notes, with disappointment, the cumulative increase of ferry fares since April 2013;
• it understands the concerns of local residents and businesses that these fare increases will have a detrimental impact on their community; 
• is angered that no socio-economic study was taken before this large increase in fares; 
• feels the socio-economic study does not reflect the impact of these cumulative increases, as the study was carried out during the winter months when passenger use was lower and before the next tourist season; 
• that the Community Services Committee considers producing a long term strategy for the crossing of the Corran Narrows which includes alternative ferry provision and the viability of a fixed crossing; 
• that the Community Services Committee also considers a micro-review of the detailed costs of the Corran Ferry including input from the Harbours Section; 
• requests the Leader of the Council facilitates a meeting with the Scottish Transport Minister, Lochaber Councillors and local community representatives to discuss the long-term future of the ferry service and possible alternatives; 
• that AECOM consultants be asked for the socio-economic study to include the possible introduction of a commuter scheme.
  

ii.  NOTED that their comments, along with all other comments received on the
   draft  socio-economic study, would be reported back to the next available
   Community Services Committee to allow the Council to set a strategy for future
   fare increases at Corran Ferry.

9. Deprived Area Fund 2014-17
Maoin Sgìrean Bochda 2014-17

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Baxter declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds of being an adviser to the Leven Centre Board but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude him from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No. LA-6-14 (63kb pdf) dated 13 February 2014 by the Director of Planning and Development which invited Members to consider recommendations for the allocation of the Deprived Area Fund for 2014-15 in the Lochaber Area.   

Members were reminded that the scope and criteria of the Deprived Area Fund 2014-15 (DAF) had been approved by Planning, Environment and Development Committee on 14 August 2013 and reported to the Lochaber Area Committee on 25 November 2013.  The revised criteria for the Fund included more targeted areas and a three year funding period to enable development of a strategic approach and encourage continuity of provision over a more sustained period. However, these applications included some organisations whose current funding expired at the end of March 2014.  A total of 3 applications had been received by the closing date for Lochaber Deprived Area Funding.  Appraisals of the applications were outlined in the report.

It was confirmed that, if the recommendations to award funds were accepted, this would leave £6,151 available for allocation over the course of the year.

The Committee APPROVED the following recommendations for the Deprived Area Fund for 2014-15:-

i. Lochaber Hope - £9,519;
ii. Shirlie Project - £4,360; and
iii. West Highland College - £9,970

10. Housing and Property Services Performance Report - 1 April 2013 to 31 December 2013
Aithisg Dèanadais Seirbheis an Taigheadais is na Seilbhe – 1 Giblean 2013    gu 31 Dùbhlachd 2013   

Declaration of Interest: Mr B Murphy declared a financial interest in this item as a temporary accommodation provider and left the room following the discussion in relation to housing repairs.

There had been circulated Report No. LA-7-14 (102kb pdf) dated 30 January 2014 by the Director of Community Services which provided information on how the Housing and Property Service performed in relation to Scottish Social Housing Charter and other performance indicators during the first three quarters of 2013/14.

Members were advised that the Scottish Housing Regulator had set out the performance indicators it would use to form part of its scrutiny of landlords.  The report provided information on performance in the first 9 months of 2013/14.  Most of the indicators were not directly comparable with previous statutory performance indicators which meant that it was not possible to obtain data retrospectively to allow reporting of data trends. 

The report detailed performance in relation to repairs, tenancy management, rental arrears and homelessness/homeless prevention.  It was confirmed that there were on-going resource implications arising from the need to develop and maintain performance monitoring systems relating to Scottish Housing Charter Performance Indicators, managed within the current Housing Revenue Account budget.  This was also a legal requirement under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2010.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• concern was expressed that tenants in homes with air source heat pumps were having to wait over a week for what was classed as an emergency repair as the nearest contractor was based in Dundee.  This was unacceptable and it was suggested that consideration be given to training local tradesmen to carry out such repairs;
• clarification was requested on the reasons for the delay in carrying out some housing repairs and the variance between geographical areas;
• it was suggested that procedures should be put in place to inform Local Members if repairs were not carried out within the target timescale;
• in relation to the average time to complete emergency repairs, information was sought on the reason for the increase in the Fort William and Ardnamurchan area during the first quarter of 2013/14;
• reference was made to instances of tenants being evicted from their home in the morning and presenting as homeless, only to be re-housed in their original home in the afternoon, the locks having been changed by Housing Services in the meantime.  Information was requested on this process and whether it was necessary to go to the expense of changing the locks; and
• clarification was requested as to what arrangements would be put in place following the closure of Mallaig and Acharacle Service Points so that people in those areas would not have to travel to Fort William for homeless prevention interviews.
  

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the information provided on Housing and Property Service performance
   for the period 1 April 2013 to 31 December 2013; and
ii. AGREED that the possibility of procedures being put in place to inform Local
   Members when repairs were unable to be carried out within the target timescale
   be explored.

11. Mallaig High School Associated School Group Overview
Sealladh Coitcheann air Buidhnean Sgoiltean Co-cheangailte Àrd-sgoil Mhalaig

There had been circulated Report No. LA-8-14 (179kb pdf) dated 10 February 2014 by the Director of Education, Culture and Sport which provided an update of key information in relation to the schools within the Mallaig High School Associated School Group and provided useful updated links of further information in relation to these schools.

In speaking to the report, the Area Education Manager highlighted pupil attainment and achievement together with appropriate improvement strategies, wider achievements and notable successes and made reference to the most recent Standards and Quality Report.  The primary schools in this area served over 130 pupils, with the secondary school serving 125 young people.  Lady Lovat/Inverie and Muck/Eigg Primary Schools had a Cluster Head Teacher while Arisaig, Mallaig & Rum Primary Schools had a Head Teacher in each school.  Head Teachers were in receipt of support through the Quality Improvement Officer and the Area Office.

During discussion, information was requested on how many pupils attended the After School Clubs at Mallaig High School.

In relation to the recommendation that Members scrutinise the report, concern was expressed that proper scrutiny was not possible unless all information was available, including any significant issues or anticipated risks, and it was requested that this be addressed in future reports.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the content of the report; and
ii. AGREED that information on how many pupils attended After School Clubs at
   Mallaig High School be provided to Members of the Committee.

The Committee adjourned at 4.15 pm and resumed at 4.20 pm.

12. Cycling, Walking and Safer Streets Programme  
Prògram Rothaireachd, Coiseachd agus Sràidean nas Sàbhailte

There had been circulated Report No. LA-9-14 (21kb pdf) dated 20 January 2014 by the Director of Community Services which invited Members to approve the projects delivered through the Scottish Government funding for Cycling, Walking and Safer Streets for the Lochaber area, as set out in Appendix 1 to the report.

The Programme aimed to encourage sustainable and active travel to school, by improving safety and removing barriers to walking and cycling, and also to encourage more people to think about their travel decisions.  The report detailed a funding application for consideration and drew attention to projects in the Lochaber area already approved under the Small Grant Funding element of the Programme.

Members having emphasised the importance of encouraging Parent Councils to bring forward more projects, the Committee:-

i. APPROVED the Safer Route to Schools Project listed in Appendix 1 to the
   report; and
ii. NOTED that the Road Safety Unit would continue to work with schools to
   develop further Safer Route to Schools Projects for future years.

13. Provision and Maintenance of Council Owned Playing Fields in Lochaber
Solar agus Cumail Suas Raointean-cluiche fo Sheilbh na Comhairle ann an  Loch Abar

There had been circulated Report No. LA-10-14 (100kb pdf) dated 12 February 2014 by the Director of Education, Culture and Sport which listed the playing fields in the Lochaber area which were the responsibility of the Council and High Life Highland and described the maintenance arrangements currently in place. The report outlined the provision which would be made as part of the new school building programme for multi-use games areas which would be available for community use.  An update was also provided on the requests from Fort William FC and Fort William Shinty Club in regard to Claggan Park and An Aird respectively.

It was confirmed that the Council owned the following community playing fields in the Lochaber area:-

• An Aird, Claggan Park, King George V (Town Park) in Fort William
• Canal Park and Pulp Mill Park, Caol 
• Jubilee Park, Ballachulish 
• Banavie Playing Field
  

The Black Parks at Inverlochy were owned by British Alcan but leased to the Council until 2024. In addition there were 2 grass pitches at Lochaber High School and a number of all-weather playing fields at Lochaber Secondary Schools which were available for community bookings.  The report detailed the present management and maintenance arrangements for all facilities, together with information on on-going discussions with Fort William’s Shinty and Football Clubs concerning the use of An Aird and Claggan Parks.

During discussion, Members made the following points:-

• concern was expressed that the feedback from sport clubs and users of the playing fields was significantly different from what the report suggested;
• sportscotland had highlighted that there was an identified gap in resources for a higher maintenance specification following major capital works on pitches;
• disappointment was expressed that, after years of work to bring pitches up to a reasonable standard, they were now not being adequately maintained and that this was not best use of the money which had been invested;
• there was an urgent need for more resources to ensure adequate maintenance was carried out and a meeting with the relevant Directors to resolve the situation was necessary;
• the poor condition of the pitches were a deterrent to volunteers;
• there were not enough pitches in a satisfactory condition.  As a result, some football teams were having to travel from Fort William to Kilnlochleven and, overall, there had been a reduction in the number of football teams;
• the Council promoted healthy lifestyles for young people and encouraged them to take up sports but, in so doing, adequate facilities had to be provided;
• the post of Performance and Inspection Coordinator was there to ensure that the Service Level Agreement was complied with but, locally, people were unaware of this role;
• it was accepted that, if a higher maintenance programme was to be carried out, resources had to be found from elsewhere and it was suggested that the savings generated from the Caol joint campus project could be used for this;
• the annual planned maintenance programme, detailed at Appendix 1 of the report, did not take into account those elements of ground maintenance which were essential if the Council was to raise standards;
• Lochaber had more rainfall than any other Highland area and this needed to be taken into account to ensure equality of provision;
• it had been suggested that specialist elements of ground maintenance, such as verti-draining, scarifying and top dressing, re-turfing and full park fertilisation, were, with the level of rainfall in Lochaber, priorities;
• ideally, for the community facilities provided at the various new schools, there should be specific provision in place, other than through school staff, to book facilities outwith school hours.  This would result in the community being better served;
• to ensure best use was made of money, a financial breakdown detailing how money was allocated, for what purposes and for which pitches was required so that Members were in a position to judge what the gap in resources was;
• although an all-weather sports pitch had been provided when the new school was built at Kinlochleven, because of the terms of the PPP contract, the community was unable to use it outwith school hours, meaning it was not utilised during the summer months.  Consequently, it was essential that the Council addressed this to allow access and to avoid similar restrictions occurring in future;
• in relation to An Aird and the pitch as Ballachulish, contractors returning to these sites had expressed concern at the deterioration of the pitches and had linked that deterioration to the lack of a proper maintenance schedule and resources.  There was little point in upgrading such pitches if there was then no money to properly maintain them;
• consideration had been given to requesting an internal audit of the pitch maintenance scheme but the response had been that there was no capacity for this to be undertaken and that a report would come to either the Lochaber Area Committee or the Transport, Environmental and Community Services Committee, the result of which was the report currently before Members; and
• given the new structure in place, it was important that Directors be informed of the serious concerns of Members and sport pitch users regarding maintaining sport pitches in Lochaber to a proper standard and that they be provided with an opportunity to satisfactorily address these concerns, to the satisfaction of all.
  

At this point, the Committee adjourned at 4.50 pm and resumed at 5.10 pm.

The Committee AGREED:-

i. to request that a meeting takes place with the Lochaber Members and the
   Directors of Community Services and Education, Culture and Sport to seek early
   progress on resolution of the issues highlighted;
ii. a report be presented to the next scheduled meeting of the Lochaber Area
   Committee determining the Council’s action plan to address concerns regarding
   the investment programme in sports pitches in Lochaber, how pitches are being
   maintained now and plans for the future and plans to engage with sport pitch
   users;
iii. to request that arrangements be put in place to ensure that a single point of
   contact was established for taking bookings outwith school hours for school  
   facilities in the Lochaber area; and
iv. that discussions take place between officials and sports pitch users, as soon as
   reasonably possible, to progress matters.

14. Grounds Maintenance Programme   
Prògram Cumail Suas Raointean

There had been circulated Report No LA-11-14 (294kb pdf) dated 30 January 2014 by the Director of Community Services which detailed the arrangements for delivering Grounds Maintenance Services and the resources and budgets available. 

It was confirmed that the Council’s Scheme of Delegation to City/Area Committees gave the Lochaber Area Committee the new power to approve local levels of service for grounds maintenance within the strategy and budget allocated by the Transport, Environmental and Community Services Committee.  The annual gross Grounds Maintenance expenditure budget in Lochaber amounted to £257,100.  The report provided information on grass-cutting contracts and the range of activities covered by the Grounds Maintenance Programme.  It was explained that activities were carried out to standards specified in the Grounds Maintenance Service Level Agreement.  

The report drew attention to the on-going programme of refinement and improvement of data which was required to manage the complete range of assets involved in grounds maintenance.  In-house resources were also detailed.  It was confirmed that there would be future engagement at Ward level on agreeing appropriate standards at specific sites, although any changes sought to the prioritisation of grounds maintenance works would have to be kept within the existing budget limits.  

During discussion, Members made the following points:-

• given that 10 years ago there were 22 seasonal and 13 full time staff employed in grounds maintenance, it was disappointing that there were now only 7 full time employees across the area;
• it was hoped that the restructuring of Council services, and the creation of Community Services, would avoid the current confusion that existed as to which service was responsible for maintaining specific areas of land and that a more joined-up approach would be achieved;
• in future, where services were unable to undertake specific pieces of work because of, for example, budget constraints, Local Members should be kept informed; and
• the proposal to provide electronic maps of all the grass cutting areas in Lochaber on the Council’s website was welcomed as it would help address queries from Community Councils etc.
  

The Committee:-

i. APPROVED the grounds maintenance service for 2014/15 as set out in the
   report;
ii. NOTED the on-going arrangements for managing the grounds maintenance
   service for the Lochaber Area and future engagement with Ward Members in
   relation to identifying the appropriate standards at specific sites; and
iii. AGREED that electronic maps of all the grass cutting areas in Lochaber, that
   the Council were responsible for, be provided on the Council’s website.

15. Lochaber Play Park Development – Naturally Play Project Review  
Solar Cluiche ann an Loch Abar

There had been circulated Report No. LA-12-14 (141kb pdf) dated 13 February 2014 by the Director of Community Services which provided an update on the ‘Lochaber Naturally Play’, play park development project highlighting the outcomes achieved to date and the challenges faced.  

The Lochaber area had an allocation of £52,400 per annum to maintain the 37 Council adopted play parks in the area.  An additional £10,000 per annum was available for the replacement of play equipment, safety surfacing and fencing.  It was recognised that the involvement of local communities had become vital for the long term future of play parks in Lochaber.  In response to this, Lochaber Community Planning Partnership had formed the Lochaber Naturally Play project which aimed to encourage communities to participate in innovative re-development of failing play parks.  It had also been agreed to consider any new provision requirements in light of developer contributions and other funds being secured for outdoor play purposes. 

The project steering group proposed to undertake three final pieces of work under the ‘Naturally Play’ project which were detailed in the report, together with a range of challenges that had emerged during the project lifecycle.

During discussion, assurances were sought, and received, that the MUGA (multi use games area) at the Caol campus school site would be freely available to the community outwith school hours.

The Committee APPROVED the proposals for the final work plan detailed in section 3 of the report.

16. Street Naming – Renaming of Existing Road, Hillside Estate, Fort William
Ainmeachadh Sràide – Ath-ainmeachadh Rathaid a th’ ann mar-thà, Oighreachd Taobh a’ Chnuic, An Gearasdan

There had been circulated Report No. LA-13-14 (11kb pdf) dated 10 February 2014 by the Acting Head of Community and Democratic Engagement which invited Members to homologate the naming of the road between Argyll Road and Loch View as ‘Heathercroft Road’ to standardise the addresses that take access from this road.

The Committee AGREED to homologate the naming of the road area between Argyll Road and Loch View as ‘Heathercroft Road’.

17. Minutes   
Geàrr-chunntas

There had been circulated, for noting, Minutes of Meeting of the Lochaber Area Committee held on 25 November 2013, which were approved by the Council on 19 December 2013 which were NOTED.

Valedictory

The Chairman paid tribute to Mr E Hunter, who had resigned as a Councillor with effect from 27 February 2014, and wished him well for the future.  He reminded Members that a by-election for the vacancy in Ward 12 would be held on Thursday 1 May 2014.

The meeting concluded at 5.30 pm.