Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee held in Talla nan Ros, King Street, Kingussie on Wednesday 23 September 2015 at 10.30 am

Present:

Mr D Fallows, Mr L Fraser, Mr S Fuller, Mr B Lobban, Mrs L MacDonald, Mr G Rimell

In attendance:

Mr D Haas, Inverness City Area Manager
Ms L Cowie, Ward Manager, Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey
Mr B MacKenzie, Principal Planner, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr J Danby, Principal Engineer, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr S Dalgarno, Development Plans Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Ms S McKandie, Benefits and Welfare Manager, Finance Service
Mr K Masson, Policy Coordinator – Climate Change, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr C Kemp, Area Community Services Manager, Community Services
Mr S Callan, Assistant Area Manager, Community Services
Mr H Logan, Senior Engineer (Policy, Standards and Safety Team), Community Services
Mr A Maguire, Head of Housing Development and Estates, Development and Infrastructure
Miss M Murray, Committee Administrator, Corporate Development Service

Also in attendance:

Mr M Tate, Chief Executive, Cairngorm Business Partnership
Chief Inspector C Gough, Police Scotland
Detective Inspector B Mackay, Police Scotland
Group Manager F Nixon, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
Temporary Station Manager G McQuade, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

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

Mrs L MacDonald in the Chair

Preliminaries

Prior to the commencement of formal business, the Area Leader announced that it was the final meeting of the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee.  It had been her privilege to serve as Area Chair and she thanked partners, Members and officers for their contribution.  In particular, she commended staff for their efforts in relation to the Nairn Common Good Fund and the open, honest and transparent way the issue had been handled.  There was a huge appetite for more localised forms of democracy and it was hoped to deliver this through community planning, working closely with partners and engaging with communities to drive forward local projects and priorities.  She looked forward to new opportunities and, with 16 year olds now able to stand in Community Council Elections, to encouraging young people to play an active part in democracy.  It was necessary to build on existing work and move forward with confidence and optimism.

In relation to the Syrian refugee crisis, it was an issue all Members felt strongly about and there was a desire to do everything possible to help the unfortunate men, women and children looking for safety and protection.  On behalf of the Committee, she welcomed the Council’s pledge to play its part, along with other local authorities in Scotland, in the Government’s resettlement programme.

Business

1. Apologies for Absence
    Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Ms J Douglas and Mr M Green.

2. Declarations of Interest
    Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declaration of interest:-

Item 7 – Mrs L MacDonald (non-financial)
Item 10 – Mr B Lobban and Mrs L MacDonald (both non-financial)
Item 13 – Mr L Fraser (non-financial)
Item 14 – Mr L Fraser and Mr S Fuller (both non-financial)

3. Recess Powers
    Cumhachdan Fosaidh

The Committee NOTED that the Recess Powers granted by the Council at its meeting on 25 June 2015 had not been exercised in relation to the business of the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee.

4. Presentation: Cairngorms Business Partnership
    Taisbeanadh: Com-pàirteachas Gnìomhachais a’ Mhonaidh Ruaidh

Mark Tate, Chief Executive, Cairngorm Business Partnership (CBP) undertook a presentation on the role of the CBP with a focus on the delivery of the Cairngorms Economic Strategy.  It was explained that the CBP was primarily a member-led organisation and the majority of its funding came from the private sector.  It was the destination marketing organisation for the Cairngorms National Park (the Park) and promotion took place in a number of ways, details of which were provided.  The CBP was also the Chamber of Commerce for the Park and acted as a voice for local businesses, as well as providing support and helping to develop capacity.  Statistics were provided on the Cairngorms economy and it was highlighted that, whilst the Park was doing well in that there was a growing young population, there was a disconnect between wages and property values.  Turning to the Cairngorms Economic Strategy, the CBP was responsible for its leadership and coordination.  However, it was emphasised that it could only be delivered by working collaboratively with partners and stakeholders.  Detailed information was provided on the context and evolution of the Strategy as well as the six themes, namely, Building on the Strengths of the Park; Supporting and Attracting Business; Strengthening Education as an Economic Asset; Attracting Investment; Infrastructure; and Planning for the Future.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• Nairn Members had been exploring the possibility of establishing a Business Improvement District or undertaking more promotional activities and it was hoped that they could work closely with the CBP in the future and learn from their expertise;
• information was sought on the potential role of Moray and Nairn coastal resorts in making the CBP tourism and marketing effort more complete;
• whilst the Cairngorms National Park was doing well, there were areas that needed support and it was important to spread activity to ensure that smaller towns and villages benefited from promotion and support; and
• Members confirmed their support in ensuring that affordable housing was the top priority for the National Park.

Thereafter, Mr Tate having responded to the issues raised, the Committee NOTED the presentation.

5. Police Scotland – Area Performance Summary
    Poileas Alba – Geàrr-chunntas Coileanadh Sgìreil

There had been circulated Report No NBS/14/15 dated 7 September 2015 by the South Highland Area Commander which provided a local summary update on progress with reference to the local priorities within the Highland 2014-2017 Policing Plan.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• an assurance was sought, on behalf of local residents, that potentially dangerous repeat sexual offenders were being adequately monitored when they were relocated into communities;
• it having been explained that the shoplifting figures for Nairn were skewed by one particular premises, information was requested on whether the premises themselves could do more to prevent it and whether they took advice and made modifications;
• in relation to doorstep crime, Members commended officers for their professional conduct and the way in which they reassured vulnerable people;
• with regard to the dualling of the A9 near Alvie Primary School, parents and the Parent Council were appreciative of the work undertaken locally and it was suggested that it was necessary to publicise the steps being taken by the Police to ensure road safety on the “rat runs” used by drivers to avoid the A9; and
• clarification was sought regarding the increase in speeding detections and whether this was due to the average speed cameras on the A9 or a more targeted approach.

Thereafter, Chief Inspector Gough having responded to the issues raised, the Committee NOTED the progress report and updates in relation to the five priorities, namely, Road Safety; Alcohol and Drug Abuse/Misuse; Antisocial Behaviour/Disorder; Crimes of Dishonesty; and Protecting People.

6. Scottish Fire and Rescue Area Committee Performance Report for 2015-16 
    Aithisg Coileanaidh Comataidh Sgìreil Smàlaidh agus Teasairginn na h-Alba airson 2015-16

There had been circulated Report No NBS/15/15 dated 7 September 2015 by the Local Senior Officer for Highland which provided an update on the progress against the priorities outlined in the Area Committee Plan for Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey 2015-2016.  Priority areas had been identified through a range of Intervention, Prevention and Protection activities delivered in partnership to reduce risk to the communities of Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey.  The report also contained previously agreed information and performance as requested by Committee Members.

The Group Manager paid tribute to Mr R Nixon, former Station Manager in Badenoch and Strathspey, and introduced Mr G McQuade, who had been temporarily seconded to the role.  Mr McQuade would be based in Aviemore and his contact details would be provided to Local Members.

During discussion, information was sought, and provided, in relation to Nairn 2nd Appliance availability, optimum staffing levels and retention of staff.

In response to a request for information on Community Response Unit (CRU) availability, the Group Manager explained that the electronic availability system used by retained crews was not available to CRUs.  However, it should be possible to provide the number of incidents attended and the number of successful attendances and he undertook to discuss the matter with the Performance Manager.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.  NOTED the Area Performance Report; and
ii. AGREED that the possibility of providing data on the number of incidents attended and the percentage of
    successful attendances by Community Response Units be explored.

7. Development Planning for Nairn/Nairn South Masterplan
    Dealbhadh Leasachail airson Prìomh Phlana Inbhir Narann/Inbhir Narann a Deas

Declaration of Interest: Mrs L MacDonald declared a non-financial interest in this item as the owner of an area of land in the Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan and elected to leave the room.

Having been unanimously appointed, Mr G Rimell took the Chair for this item.

There had been circulated Report No NBS/16/15 dated 11 September 2015 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure which set out the actions required to deliver a new Nairn South Masterplan. The need for a new Nairn South Masterplan followed the recommendations of the Examination Report to the Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• information was sought of whether there would be an assessment of water and sewage works in Nairn and their capacity to accommodate further development; when consultation would take place with the community; and the difference between the orange and brown areas on the development allocations map;
• concern was expressed that Nairn had reached the limits of expansion with its current infrastructure and it was suggested that some of the long term development plans should be curtailed;
• the proposed transport appraisal was welcomed.  However, in addition to Nairn itself, it was necessary to examine the transport infrastructure in outlying areas.  In particular, concern was expressed regarding the weight restriction at White Bridge near Croy and the potential impact on alternative roads and bridges.

Thereafter, the Committee AGREED:-

i.  for the Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan Action Programme to include an action to prepare a delivery
    strategy for sites in Nairn;
ii. to the preparation of a Transport Appraisal (as scoped in Appendix 2 of the report) to guide the revision of a draft
    Nairn South Masterplan for consultation; and
iii. that Council officials work with the community, landowners and developer interests to prepare a draft Nairn South
    Masterplan for approval at the next appropriate Committee.

Mrs L MacDonald took the Chair

8. Nairn Community Town Centre Plan
    Plana Meadhan Baile Coimhearsnachd Inbhir Narann

There had been circulated Report No NBS/17/15 dated 10 September 2015 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure which outlined responses to the public consultation on the Draft Nairn Town Centre Action Plan and presented a finalised version for Members’ approval.  In response to the consultation, the Plan title had been changed to Nairn Community Town Centre Plan.  The purpose of the Plan was to highlight projects that could be delivered should funding opportunities arise, or where planning applications might help to make these a reality.  The Plan reflected shared priorities for the future of the town centre and would place the town in a strong position to compete for funding awards.

The finalised Plan was contained in Appendix A and a summary of comments received and recommended responses were set out in Appendices B and C.  Following approval by the Committee, the Plan would become non-statutory planning guidance, which would be a material consideration in development management decision-making and a useful tool in supporting funding applications.

The Area Leader thanked the Development Plans Manager and his team for their efforts and commended the significant amount of input from Nairn Improvement Community Enterprise, Nairn Economic Initiative and members of the community.  The report highlighted a shared vision, shared priorities and a desire for a collaborative approach.  It outlined a clear plan with specific goals and the need to work together to deliver the objectives.  Although it did not include a timescale for delivery, it was hoped that straightforward actions, such as the links to riverside walks, could be implemented in the short term to gain some quick wins and build momentum.

During discussion, Members referred to the proposal to convert the Council’s Finance Office to civic use and expressed concern regarding the potential loss of jobs in the town centre.

Thereafter, clarification having been provided in relation to the Town Centre boundary, the Committee:-

i.  NOTED that the Nairn Community Town Centre Plan at Appendix A of the report reflected shared priorities for the
    future of the town centre, in particular projects that could be delivered should funding opportunities arise;
ii. AGREED that the Plan become non-statutory planning guidance and be treated as a material consideration in
    determining planning applications; and
iii. NOTED the comments received during the Nairn Town Centre Action Plan consultation and AGREED to the
    recommended Council responses presented in Appendices B and C of the report.

9. Advice and Information Services: End of Year Monitoring
    Seirbheisean Comhairle agus Fiosrachaidh: Sgrùdadh Deireadh Bliadhna

There had been circulated Report No NBS/18/15 dated 31 August 2015 by the Director of Finance which explained that advice and information services were recognised as a critical approach in alleviating poverty in the Council’s Programme and Single Outcome Agreement.  The report provided Members with the end of year monitoring of advice and information services in Highland for 2014/15.

During discussion, Members commended the advice and information services being provided throughout Highland, both by Council teams and Citizens Advice Bureaus, and acknowledged the significant increase in the number of contacts.  The Highland Council Welfare Fund projects were welcomed and, in relation to the midwifery project in particular, Members looked forward to seeing the figures.  With regard to debt, it was important to inform people of the risks and it was suggested that consideration be given to a preventative project involving schools.

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED:-

i.  the level of support provided to customers across Highland in 2014/15; the continued increase in demand for
    these services; and the pressures associated in delivering the intensive resource required to resolve complex
    cases;
ii. the positive impact of the Mental Health Project in addressing issues presented by vulnerable clients which had
    current funding until end of March 2016;
iii. the positive impact of the “Reaching the Unreached” service in preventing households being evicted and avoiding
    additional pressures on the Council’s homeless services.  This service had Scottish Legal Aid Board funding until
    end of September 2016;
iv. the potential of the Midwifery project to support new and expectant mothers in the Highlands to maximise their
    incomes which had funding until end of May 2016; and
v. the outcomes being achieved in supporting Highland residents to mitigate the effects of poverty.

10. Carbon CLEVER Community Grant Fund 2015/16
      Maoin Tabhartais Coimhearsnachd Càrboin CIALLAICH 2015/16

Declarations of Interest:

The following Members declared a non-financial interest in this item but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interest did not preclude their involvement in the discussion:-

Mr B Lobban - Adviser to the Board of Grantown Museum and Heritage Trust
Mrs L MacDonald – Director of Lovat Lodge

There had been circulated Report No NBS/19/15 dated 8 September 2015 by the Head of Policy and Reform which set out the applications received for the Carbon CLEVER Community Grant Fund in Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey for 2015/16.  It detailed the background to the fund, together with a summary of applications, assessments and funding recommendations.

During discussion, it was proposed, in relation to the underspend, that the Fund be held open for the remainder of the financial year.  It was highlighted that there would not be an Area Committee on 9 December 2015 and it was necessary to consider how to deal with grant applications in the future. 

Thereafter, the Committee AGREED:-

i. the funding recommendations from the Carbon CLEVER Community Grant Fund as follows:-

Ref.          Applicant Organisation                                Recommended Award
11570       Grantown Museum and Heritage Trust       £7,190
Total                                                                                    £7,190

ii. to defer a funding decision on the application by Lovat Lodge Hotel Ltd so that guidance could be provided to the
    applicant in respect of the Fund’s key assessment criteria; and
iii. that the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey Carbon CLEVER Community Grant Fund 2015/16 be held open for the
    remainder of the financial year.

11. Winter Maintenance Priority Network - 2015/16
      Lìonra Prìomhachais Obair-gleidhidh Geamhraidh – 2015/16

There had been circulated Report No NBS/20/15 dated 21 August 2015 by the Director of Community Services which provided Members with information on winter maintenance service provision and invited the Committee to agree the priority network of Primary and Secondary routes within Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• information was sought, and provided, on whether there had been a reduction in the roads being gritted since the previous year; which roads in the “other” category would receive a lesser treatment; whether any progress had been made in relation to local farmers being contracted to carry out snow clearing; the position with regard to the Council’s snow blower; and the position with regard to treatment of unadopted roads in new housing estates;
• in relation to treatment of footways, information was requested on which paths were cleared in the Badenoch and Strathspey area.  The Area Community Services Manager confirmed that a detailed list could be provided;
• concern was expressed that roads in the “other” category in Nairn would receive a very limited service if there was a period of bad weather; and
• Members questioned the rationale behind Cairngorm Mountain ski road being classified as a secondary route given that Sunday snow clearing did not commence until 9.30 am and the ski car park was full by 8.30 am.  It was suggested that discussions take place with the new operator, Natural Retreats, with input from Local Members, with a view to reaching an arrangement to sustain what was a major economic driver in the area.  The Area Community Services Manager explained that the operator supplemented Council provision on the ski road and a meeting took place every winter to discuss how that could be done to the best effect.  It was confirmed that a meeting would be arranged in early course.

Thereafter, the Committee AGREED:-

i.  the Winter Maintenance priority network of Primary and Secondary roads, presented in Appendix B of the report,
    for the 2015/16 winter service period;
ii. in relation to treatment of footways, that a list of the paths cleared in Badenoch and Strathspey be provided to
    Ward Members; and
iii. that a meeting be arranged with Natural Retreats to discuss winter maintenance provision in respect of the
    Cairngorm Mountain ski road.

12. Grounds Maintenance Performance Monitoring Report
      Aithisg Sgrùdaidh mu Choileanadh Obair-gleidhidh Raointean

There had been circulated Report No NBS/21/15 dated 2 September 2015 by the Director of Community Services which detailed performance management information for the Grounds Maintenance Service from April to August 2015.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• in relation to grass cutting amenity standards, it would be helpful to receive a map showing which grass type applied to which area of the community.  This would enable Members to assist in monitoring.  The Area Community Services Manager confirmed that this could be provided;
• an explanation was sought as to why no Breached Standard Notices had been completed within the notice period and why the contracted grass cutting Validation Inspection pass rate was only 5% in August 2015;
• the work carried out by the DLO was generally of a high standard and it was hoped that the service would continue;
• it would be useful to receive data from the previous financial year for the purposes of comparison;
• information was requested on the grass cutting contract renewal date; and
• clarification was sought as to who was responsible for grounds maintenance at Aviemore Community School.  Serious concern was expressed regarding the overgrown state of the grounds and that, despite an instruction by the Chief Executive, no progress had been made.  The Area Community Services Manager explained that it was between the client service and Community Services and modifications were being carried out to make it a more maintainable area.  In addition, contractors had been brought in to bring the grounds up to an acceptable standard.  He undertook to revert to Local Members with an Action Plan as soon as possible.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.  NOTED the performance management and remedial action information provided on the grounds maintenance
    service as set out in the report;
ii. NOTED the management actions taken to address the performance issues identified;
iii. AGREED to review required service standards at future Ward Business Meetings;
iv. AGREED, in relation to grass cutting amenity standards, that a map/list of maintained areas in Nairn and
    Badenoch and Strathspey be provided to Ward Members to enable them to assist in monitoring; and
v. AGREED that an Action Plan in relation to grounds maintenance at Aviemore Community School be provided to
    Badenoch and Strathspey Ward Members as soon as possible.

13. Housing Performance Report
      Aithisg Coileanaidh a thaobh Taigheadais

Declaration of Interest: Mr L Fraser declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Sub-Contractor for the Housing Service in Nairn 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 his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No NBS/22/15 dated 4 September 2015 by the Director of Community Services which provided information on how the Housing Section performed in relation to the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other performance indicators during the first quarter of 2015/16.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• concern was expressed regarding the increase in rent arrears and Members welcomed the management of arrears being handed back to the Nairn Housing team.  However, information was sought on whether the capacity of staff to deal with the additional workload had been taken into consideration and whether any extra support would be provided.  In relation to support to manage arrears in Badenoch and Strathspey being provided by officers from Lochaber until such time as the Housing Management Officer vacancy was filled, information was requested on whether the arrangement was working well;
• the significant improvement in the length of time taken to complete repairs in Badenoch and Strathspey was welcomed;
• clarification was sought in relation to the percentage of Court Actions that resulted in eviction and whether any evictions had taken place in Nairn in the past year; and
• it having been explained that there was no correlation between the number of homeless presentations and the percentage of households requiring temporary accommodation who received an offer, information was requested on the number of housing allocations made to homeless people.  The Assistant Area Manager, Community Services, confirmed that this could be provided.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.  NOTED the information provided on housing performance in the period 1 April to 30 June 2015; and
ii. AGREED that information on the number of housing allocations made to homeless people in Nairn and Badenoch
    and Strathspey be provided to Members of the Committee.

14. Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme Update
      Cunntas às Ùr mu Phrògram Calpa Cunntas Teachd-a-steach Taigheadais

Declarations of Interest:

The following Members declared a non-financial interest in this item but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interest did not preclude their involvement in the discussion:-

Mr L Fraser – Sub-Contractor for the Housing Service in Nairn
Mr S Fuller – Council House Tenant

There had been circulated Report No NBS/23/15 dated 4 September 2015 by the Director of Community Services which provided information on the status of the Housing Revenue Account Capital Projects within the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey Area and the survey of Tenant satisfaction with HRA Capital Programme works in 2014/15.

During discussion, Members expressed concern regarding the installation, operation and suitability of domestic biomass heating systems.  There were severe problems in some areas and they had the potential to become unaffordable as demand for pellets exceeded supply.  It was suggested that the issue needed to be examined on a Council-wide basis.  However, Members also highlighted the positive feedback in relation to heating installations in the tenants’ survey.

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED the status of current capital projects contained in the report and the results from the survey of Tenant satisfaction with HRA Capital Programme works 2014/15.

15. Cycling, Walking and Safer Streets Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Rothaireachd, Coiseachd agus Sràidean nas Sàbhailte

There had been circulated Report No NBS/24/15 dated 7 September 2015 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure which invited Members to approve the projects delivered through the Scottish Government funding for Cycling, Walking and Safer Streets for the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee.

Clarification having been sought and provided in relation to the two phases of the Newtonmore Primary School project, the Committee:-

i.  APPROVED the projects detailed in Appendix 1 of the report; and
ii. NOTED that the Road Safety Unit would continue to work with schools to develop further Safer Routes to School
    Projects for future years.

16. Capital Projects – Investing in the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey Area
      Pròiseactan Calpa – A’ Tasgadh ann an Sgìre Inbhir Narann agus Bhàideanach agus Shrath Spè

There had been circulated Report No NBS/25/15 dated 24 August 2015 by the Director of Finance which listed the capital projects included in the Council’s capital programme being delivered in the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey area in financial year 2015/16 and the in-year budgets for these projects.

The Inverness City Area Manager highlighted that the Ruthven Bridge project, a major capital investment in the area, had not been included in the report and he undertook to provide the detail to Members.  Members commended all those involved in the project, which was a success story in terms of prompt Council action and timeous delivery.

Thereafter, information having been sought as to what the Ralia Railway project entailed, the Committee:-

i.  NOTED the budgeted capital projects being delivered in the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey area in 2015/16;
    and
ii. AGREED that further information on the Ralia Railway project be provided to Local Members.

17. Nairn Common Good Fund – Update Report
      Maoin Math Coitcheann Inbhir Narann – Aithisg Ùrachaidh

There had been circulated Joint Report No NBS/26/15 dated 10 September 2015 by the Director of Finance and the Inverness City Area Manager which asked Members to note the position of the Nairn Common Good Fund (NCGF) as shown in the Quarter 1 Monitoring Statement.

Having welcomed the report and the healthy balance as a result of increased income generation, the Committee NOTED:-

i.  the position of the Nairn Common Good Fund as shown in the Quarter 1 Revenue Monitoring Statement against
    Budget; and
ii. the progress being made on the provision of both the Asset Register and an Investment Strategy for the Nairn
    Common Good Fund.

18. Minutes
      Geàrr-chunntas

The Committee NOTED the Minutes of the Nairn and Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee held on 10 June 2015, as approved by the Council on 25 June 2015.

19. Exclusion of Public
      Às-dùnadh a’ Phobaill

The Committee RESOLVED that, under Section 50A(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the public be excluded from the meeting during discussion of the following items on the grounds that they involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 6 and 9 of Part 1 of Schedule 7A of the Act.

20. Request for Sale of Land at Balmakeith Industrial Estate, Nairn
      Iarrtas airson Fearann a Reic aig Àrainn Gnìomhachais Bhaile Mac Càidh, Inbhir Narann

There had been circulated to Members only Report No NBS/27/15 dated 9 September 2015 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure in relation to a request for sale of land at Balmakeith Industrial Estate, Nairn.

Having considered the issues, the Committee AGREED not to support the request.

21. Urgent Additional Item:
      Nairn Common Good Ground: Parkdean Holiday Parks Limited – Lease Variation

The Committee NOTED that, in terms of Standing Order 17.2, the Area Leader had agreed that this additional item of business, not specified on the agenda, be considered as a matter of urgency to allow the necessary consents to be secured and development work to take place during the winter months.

There had been circulated to Members only Report No NBS/28/15 dated 16 September 2015 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure in relation to a proposal to vary the lease in respect of Parkdean Holiday Park, Nairn.

Having considered the issues, the Committee AGREED:-

i.  the recommendation; and
ii. that confirmation be sought as to what statutory consents were required and that Nairn Ward Members be updated
    accordingly.

The meeting concluded at 1.30 pm.