Agendas, reports and minutes

Transport, Environmental and Community Services Committee

Date: Thursday, 6 February 2014

Minutes: Read the Minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Transport, Environmental and Community Services Committee held in the Council Chamber, Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Thursday, 6 February 2014 at 10.30am.

Present:

Dr D Alston, Mr R Balfour, Mr B Clark, Dr I Cockburn, Mrs G Coghill, Mr N Donald, Mr A Graham, Mr R Greene, Mr A Henderson, Mr B Lobban, Mrs L MacDonald, Ms A MacLean Mr K MacLeod, Mrs B McAllister, Mr H Morrison, Mr B Murphy, Mr G Phillips, Mr M Rattray, Mr A Rhind, Mrs F Robertson (Substitute), Mr J Rosie, Mr R Saxon, Ms M Smith

Non-Members also present:

Mr A Baxter, Mrs I Campbell, Mr L Fraser, Mr R Laird, Mr D MacKay, Mr D Millar, Mrs M Paterson, Mr T Prag, Dr A Sinclair

In attendance:
Mr W Gilfillan, Director of Community Services 
Mr S MacNaughton, Head of Transport and Infrastructure
Dr C Clark, Head of Waste Management 
Mr R Evans, Acting Head of Roads & Community Works
Mr M Mitchell, Finance Manager
Mr A Yates, Environmental Health Manager
Mr D McKechnie, Integrated Transport Manager
Ms G Bain, Senior Animal Health and Welfare Officer
Miss J Maclennan, Principal Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Mrs R Daly, Committee Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Also in Attendance:
Mr P Finch, Associate Director, AECOM Consultants
Mr T Matthew, Director, Reference Economic Consultants
An asterisk in the margin denotes a recommendation to the Council.  All decisions with no marking in the margin are delegated to Committee.

Mr G Phillips in the Chair

Preliminaries

Prior to the commencement of formal business, the Chairman provided a brief update in relation to recent storm damage on the east coast.  He confirmed that the Council was currently assessing the level of damage to these areas and to other coastal areas and reports would be brought forward in due course.

Business

1.  Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mr M Finlayson and Mr D Hendry.

2.  Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt
The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 4 – Mr A Graham and Mr R Saxon (both non-financial)

3.  Review  of Recycling Centres
Ath-sgrùdadh air Ionadan Ath-chuairteachaidh
There had been circulated Report No TEC-1-14 (182kb pdf) dated 24 January 2014 by the Head of Waste Management which detailed the outcome of the recycling centre review. 
It was explained that the Council had 21 recycling centres located around Highland either inherited from District Councils in 1996 or constructed between 2004 and 2006 using the Strategic Waste Fund. All had different capacities, throughput and abilities with respect to the provision of recycling facilities and, as a result, delivered different rates of diversion. An analysis of travel distances to the sites and communities served had revealed that areas in south west Ross/Lochalsh and parts of Lochaber were furthest from an existing site.  Since 2011, all households throughout Highland had access to kerbside recycling services through the alternate weekly collection.  Despite this, there had been a proportional rise in the amount of residual waste collected at recycling centres. To tackle this increase, a programme of improvement at all recycling centres was proposed to commence in April so to increase diversion and reduce waste to landfill.  This would be rolled out throughout all recycling centres in order of priority based on throughput. 

During discussion, Members raised a range of issues, including:-

  • While welcoming the report, there were concerns that the proposals might lead to an increase in fly tipping
  • The proposal to carry out a pilot and introduce a time-limit for deposits of commercial waste in Alness was welcomed.  It was queried how operatives at recycling centres would know whether waste was commercial or domestic.  In addition, it was assumed that commercial operators had a license to deposit commercial waste
  • There were some areas in the Highlands, particularly Lochcarron and Lochalsh, where no recycling centres were available and members of the public needed to travel large distances to dispose of recycling.  It was disappointing that the report recommendations did not seek to address this issue particularly as all Community Councils in Lochalsh had made written representations to the Council on this issue
  • The proposals involved a ban on disposal of commercial waste but in the recycling centres in Nairn and Tain there had never been issues created as a result of waste disposal from both commercial and domestic sectors.  A suggestion was made that creating two separate entrances would provide a better method of monitoring and managing commercial and domestic recycling.  The proposals would effectively create more problems in some areas
  • Restrictions to disposal of commercial waste for some small operators could risk the increase in double handling of recyclables, lead to potential loss of revenue from the commercial sector and increase the risk of fly-tipping
  • An inspection of goods was already undertaken in Tain so it was not felt that the proposed changes were necessary
  • It was disappointing that a more common sense approach could not be taken, particularly in relation to refusal to allow individuals to take away recycling materials once they had been deposited, this appeared to be contrary to the ethos of recycling
  • Staff in the recycling centres should be praised as they were maintained and managed well
  • It was queried if there was any information available on whether the recent policy decisions taken by the previous Council had impacted on the levels of bulky uplift
  • There was a risk that the proposals might undo some of the good work that had already been undertaken – further details of what the pilot entailed and how long it was intended to run for would have been beneficial and it was hoped that there could be a report back on this to the Committee
  • Regarding some of the concerns expressed, it was expected that they might relate more to disposal of green waste rather than recycling – trips to recycling centres were not necessary on a frequent basis.  There might be scope for community based solutions to be explored, particularly to address disposal of green waste
  • It should be made more widely known that if a business paid for a commercial recycling collection, an equivalent amount could be taken to a recycling centre free of charge 

 

Responding to these comments, the Chairman confirmed that he would respond in early course to Community Councils in the Lochalsh area who had made representations because of the travel distances to recycling centres.  The Chairman also undertook to address comments raised during debate in relation to fly tipping and costs to uplift fly-tipped materials.
It was confirmed that commercial waste was legally a company responsibility and not the responsibility of the Council.  All recycling centres operated under a licence controlled by SEPA and if regulations were breached this laid the Council open to prosecution.  Recycling centres were principally for domestic waste.  Staff adopted a pragmatic approach in as far as the regulations might permit and this would continue throughout the pilot scheme.  There was no fixed time period for the pilot as it was felt the timescale would set itself.   While it was not intended to introduce congestion to centres where it was not currently experienced, isolating vans to a certain part of the day would permit a better opportunity to interrogate what materials were being brought.  
The Committee:-
i. APPROVED a pilot programme at Alness recycling centre to examine a 
    range of ways in which the Service could identify and then eliminate the 
    deposit of commercial waste;
ii. APPROVED a ban on the deposit of household waste which had arisen as 
    part of a commercial operation (eg house clearance work);
iii. APPROVED the introduction of specific times/days for the deposit of 
    waste by vans and trailers to ease congestion and “skip blocking”; 
iv. APPROVED the introduction of an inspection system to ensure that 
    residual waste brought to the site did not contain recyclable waste;
v. APPROVED the reorganisation of sites to increase the provision 
    (space permitting) of recyclable containers and of materials which could be 
    recycled; 
vi. NOTED that an application to Zero Waste Scotland had been made to 
    examine alternative ways to engage with the public and improve 
    segregation of recyclable materials; and
vii. NOTED that the Chairman would respond to the concerns expressed 
    by constituents in Lochalsh and Lochcarron who had to travel 

    large distances to access a recycling centre. 

4. Funding for Social Enterprises Sector Recycling Projects for 2014/15
Maoineachadh airson Pròiseactan Ath-chuairteachaidh ann an Earrainn nan Iomairtean Sòisealta airson 2014/15
Declarations of Interest
Mr R Saxon declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds of being the Chair of HomeAid (Caithness and Sutherland) and left the room for this item.
Mr A Graham declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds that a close relative was a volunteer for Blysthwood Care 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 TEC-2-14 (12kb pdf) dated 24 January 2014 by the Head of Waste Management which invited Members to approve that the current level of funding provided to Social Enterprise Groups involved in recycling be carried forward to 2014/15.
It was confirmed that the Council provided support to a range of Social Enterprise Groups who carried out recycling services through the Transport, Environmental and Community Services Revenue Budget for Waste Management.  The estimated funding for 2014/15, based on the activity in 2013/14, was detailed in the report.
During discussion, Members welcomed the report and drew particular attention to the support given to Social Enterprises and to the social value that such organisations provided.  Reference was made to the formula now available to evaluate the social value provided by such groups and Members looked forward to individual agreements being produced for each group.  This would protect jobs whilst moving towards new areas of activity.
It was confirmed that the estimation of the social value of these groups was long-overdue, as was the recognition that their contribution extended over a wide range of public agencies and services.  

The Committee APPROVED funding to existing social enterprises for 2014/15 as set out in the report.

5. Green Transport Strategy
Ro-innleachd Còmhdhalach Uaine
There had been circulated Report No TEC-3-14 (29kb pdf) dated 24 January 2014 by the Head of Transport and Infrastructure which invited Members to approve the draft Green Transport Strategy (GTS) for consultation.  The GTS had been prepared following discussion with key stakeholders and set out a number of initiatives the Council was currently undertaking to ensure the Highlands played its part in reducing carbon and other environmentally detrimental emissions. In addition, it set out the Council’s objectives and policies with respect to Green Transport and made a significant contribution the Carbon Clever Highlands.
During a summary of the report, it was explained that work had been on-going with partner agencies to produce a GTS with the objective of producing an effective and attractive Highland-wide transport network so as to provide an alternative to car usage.  A consultation exercise had been undertaken with key partners and stakeholders in October 2013, the main outcomes of which were detailed in the report.  Persuading residents to use sustainable public transport services, as well as private companies to transport materials and goods by rail, was considered critical to achieving a sustainable transport network in the long term.  It had been proposed that, for a 4 week period, the draft GTS be made available on the Council’s website for wider consultation purposes but, in recognising the importance of including Community Councils in the process, this had now been amended to 8 weeks.
During discussion, Members raised a range of issues, including:-
• the recognition that a different approach was necessary for rural areas was welcomed – a one-sized strategy would not work in Highland.  It was important therefore that organisations and individuals in rural areas took part in the consultation; 
• one of the benefits arising from the October consultation exercise with partners was that the needs of both urban and rural area had been acknowledged.  For example, while those living in an urban area might wish to see environmentally-friendly public transport being provided, those in a rural area were more concerned in having even a basic public transport service in place; 
• organisations such as NHS Highland needed to be fully engaged with the process;   
• the changing of public attitudes and behaviours was important and this would take time.  It was essential therefore that a communication strategy was part of the process; 
• it was important to be realistic as to what the strategy might generate.  Communities, for example, might suggest proposals that needed investment; 
• it was contended that, in Highland, we were “car essential” as opposed to “car precious” until such time as there were alternative methods of public transport and community working available; and 
• more people would use public transport if it met their needs and it was important to involve Network Rail, HITRANS etc in the strategy to ensure a proper public transport network was delivered.

The Committee APPROVED the draft Green Transport Strategy for consultation and AGREED the proposed programme for an 8 week public consultation period subject to minor post-Committee changes, including formatting, typographic and illustrative amendments agreed in consultation with the Chair of the Committee.

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

There had been circulated Report No TEC-4-14 (18kb pdf) dated 28 January 2014 by the Head of Transport and Infrastructure which outlined details of a socio-economic study carried out by AECOM, transport consultants Booklet A (1179kb pdf), into ferry fare strategy increases for the Corran ferry.  A presentation was undertaken by Tom Matthew, Director of Reference Economic Consultants.  He explained that the study objectives were to produce a socio-economic profile of the main area served by the Corran Ferry, assess the role of current fare levels and assess the socio-economic impacts of further fare increases.  An outline was given of the work undertaken and which had included:-

  • Review of carryings data and previous user surveys 
  • Profile of the peninsula-population and employment 
  • Consultation with a number of elected members 
  • Online survey of Corran ferry users-593 responses 
  • Telephone survey of 18 businesses
Details were given of the current fares and main traffic types, together with how using the Corran Ferry reduced travel time and road miles/fuel costs.  Regarding the socio-economic profile, it was explained that the study area had a relatively aged population and that residents’ employment tended to be in lower paid sectors.  The range of challenges facing the area were detailed: a relatively high proportion of employment was part-time; there was a high level of self-employment, current costs of living were high and the area being designated by HIE  as a “fragile area”.  The main findings of the online survey were presented which indicated, amongst other things, that around half of residents used the service more than weekly.  The outcome of discussions with freight operators was also set out. Reactions to fare increases of 10% and 25% from both residents and visitors were outlined, together with the range of considerations and potential consequences of such potential increases.  Although some impacts could be subtle, it would be important to ensure a stable and predictable fare policy.
In amplification of the report, it was explained that there had been an average 5.3% increase per annum on the total running costs of the Corran Ferry since 2002/03.  As part of the Council’s Revenue Budget for 2013/14 it had been agreed that a revised fares structure for the Corran Ferry be introduced to raise an additional £100k in income, this being in addition to the annual inflationary increase.  In November 2013 the Committee had deferred any significant increase in fares until a socio-economic study on fare level increases was carried out.  Members comments were sought on the study and a further report would be brought in due course once all consultations had been carried out.

The Chairman confirmed that the 10% or 25% increases were not the final proposals – these figures had been explored purely on a hypothetical basis.  A fully worked-up business case would be presented to the next Committee meeting with a full understanding of capital and running costs over a number of years forward. 

During discussion, Members welcomed the study and made the following comments:-
  • the local economy, and in particular the tourism industry, was supported significantly by the Corran Ferry and other ferry routes in the area.  On this basis there might be benefit in consulting with and providing a copy of the study to Argyll and Bute Council; 
  • the use of the ferry route contributed to reducing carbon emissions which should form part of the consideration of increases in fares; 
  • communities were not happy with the proposal to increase fares and it was disappointing that the information in the study had not been available when the fare review had first been mooted.  The study had revealed many complexities and it was disappointing that the social and economic impacts had not been particularly developed; 
  • no mention was made of the use of the alternative lochside road; 
  • residents had commented on the timing of the study which it was feared would skew conclusions.  The impact of an increase in fares would have been more pronounced had the study been taken during the summer as tourist/visitor use would have been higher at this time; 
  • there was no review of the recent fare increases which were already impacting on residents and likely also to affect visitors; 
  • the ferry crossing was a lifeline route.  For many local residents and businesses the Ardgour road was not a viable alternative and the fare structure should give some recognition for local people and consider providing some form of concession for older people; 
  • it was surprising to learn that the through-traffic was as low as 10%; and 
  • it was unclear from which budget the costs of the study would be met.  
It was confirmed that this was a one-off cost and, having commented on the draft socio-economic study, the Committee:-
i. APPROVED the issue of the draft socio-economic study for consultation to 
   the local Area Committee, Argyll and Bute Council and Community Councils 
   within the ferry catchment; and
ii. NOTED that the socio-economic study would be reported back to 
   Committee in due course along with responses received to the consultation 

   to allow a strategy to be put in place for future fare increases.

7.  Scottish Government Funding – Lighting Column Condition Survey 
Maoin Riaghaltas na h-Alba – Suirbhidh Staid Cholbhan Solais
There had been circulated Report No TEC-5-14 (243kb pdf) dated 27 January 2014 by the Head of Transport and Infrastructure which advised Members of funding made available by the Scottish Government to carry out column condition surveys which would assist with the development of LED energy efficient improvements to street lighting and which would contribute to “Carbon Clever Highlands”.
It was explained that the Scottish Government had identified the reduction in carbon produced from Street Lighting as an important element in the commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2020.  It had been estimated that the adoption of Street Lighting LED technology could generate potential savings of £1.3bn over a 20 year period if adopted by all Scottish Local Authorities.  The Scottish Government had made available a total funding package of £2.0m in 2014/15 to Local Authorities to support the development of energy-efficient street lighting throughout Scotland.  Of this sum Highland Council would receive £104k in 2014/15.  
Several Street Lighting Pilot projects had recently been installed or were under construction throughout the Council area. These pilots had indicated savings in energy of typically 50% to 80% when compared to the previous energy consumption.   It was proposed that the funds be used to test different types of street lighting columns throughout the Council Area.
During discussion, Members welcomed the report and looked forward to the economies that were likely to be accrued from using LED street lighting technology.
The Committee:-
i. NOTED the funding allocation made available by the Scottish Government for 
   street lighting; and
ii. APPROVED the use of these funds to develop street lighting column condition 

   surveys in accordance with the condition of the fund.

8.  Blanket 20mph Speed Limits
Casgan Astair Coitcheann 20msa
There had been circulated Report No TEC-6-14 (24kb pdf) dated 28 January 2014 by the Head of Transport and Infrastructure which advised Members of the current position with regard to the regulations on speed limit orders and reports on recent developments on blanket 20 mph orders.
It was explained that Highland Council had introduced 20mph limits at schools and had agreed to continue with the implementation of 20mph limits in town centres and residential areas based on the 2006 speed limit guidance.  A budget of £50,000 per annum for 5 years had been identified for the implementation of 20mph schemes.

The introduction of a blanket 20mph limit in all Town/Village centres and residential areas throughout Highland raised a variety of considerations, both for and against, and a number of implications, all of which were detailed in the report.  The Scottish Government was about to review its guidance which would likely relax criteria and could permit the introduction of blanket 20mph limits.  Once revised guidance was produced the Council would be invited to consider reviewing its own policy.

During discussion, Members welcomed the report and made a range of comments:-

  • it would be important to consider areas where there had already been successful introduction of blanket 20mph areas such as Cromarty and Stromness in Orkney.  In these places low speed vehicular traffic and pedestrians mixed well
  • where street car parking occurred on both sides of the carriageway, this acted as a natural chicane and had the effect of slowing down traffic.  The approach of making the street “a room” rather than a corridor would contribute to slower speeds
  • there were some towns and villages where a blanket 20mph would be less easy to introduce as this might mean switching speed limits from one area to another – there was a need for consistency of speed limits to ensure success
  • Members looked forward to the revised guidance which it was expected would ensure simpler and quicker processes to implement speed limits than in the past; and 
  • it was clear that there would be a need for exemptions to restrictions to such routes as distributor roads.

 

The Committee:-
i. NOTED the current strategy of developing 20 mph speed limits in accordance 
   with the approved programme set out at the Transport, Environmental and 
   Community Services Committee in August 2013; and
ii. AGREED to review Council policy on 20 mph speed limits and report to 
   Committee once the Scottish Government had issued its revised guidance on the 

   introduction of local speed limits.

9.  Coastal Flood Warning - Moray Firth Tidal Surge Model
Rabhadh mu Thuiltean Cladaich – Modal Bàrcadh Làin-mhara Linne Mhoireibh  
There had been circulated Report No TEC-7-14 (125kb pdf) dated 23 January 2014 by the Head of Transport and Infrastructure which informed Members of joint working with SEPA to develop a coastal flood warning system for the Moray Firth.  The report provided details of work being undertaken to develop a tidal surge model which would provide more accurate forecasts of critical sea levels at settlements along the coastline and information on the details, extent and content of the model.
It was confirmed that the use of a predictive tool to assist in early forecasting of tidal surge and wave height was central to a flood warning system for various critical sectors of the coastline.  Following the severe coastal damage to the eastern seaboard during the winter of 2012 the Council had been in talks with SEPA to assist in the development of a tidal surge model for the Moray Firth area.  Details of the model and the extent of the coastline to be covered was contained in Appendix A of the report.  
SEPA planned to make an award to Hydrological consultants for the model development before the end of the financial year.  A contribution of £22k was being sought from the Council towards the cost of delivering the model.  It was considered that this represented good value for money bearing in mind the high cost of damage and cost of remedial works arising from coastal damage.
The Committee APPROVED:-
i. joint working with SEPA on the development of a tidal surge model for the Moray 
   Firth; and

ii. a contribution of £22k towards the cost of this model development.

10.  Extensions and Improvement of Cemeteries
Leudachaidhean is Leasachaidhean Chladhan
There had been circulated Report No TEC-8-14 (120kb pdf) dated 23 January 2014 by the Acting Head of Roads and Community Works which invited Members to approve the updated 10 year programme for cemetery extensions and replacements. 
It was explained that from an assessment of cemetery capacity in the Highlands there were 27 cemeteries identified as requiring extensions and /or replacements within the next 10 years, as detailed in Appendix A to the report.  A programme of extensions or replacements of cemeteries had been developed to spread works over several years with Area teams delivering works where practicable.
The Council’s Capital Programme provided a general capital allocation of £100k per annum for the extension or replacement of cemeteries from 2014/15 to 2017/18.  For extension or replacement of large cemeteries the Capital Programme also included an allocation £500k in 2016/17 and 2017/18.  The cemetery extension programme would be reviewed annually to ensure that the time periods remained accurate and that updated cost estimates were fed into the Capital Programme.
During discussion, Members raised a range of issues, including:-
• the implementation of a formal asset management plan for all cemeteries was welcomed; 
• delays in the resolution of legal issues were being investigated; 
• in relation to Arisaig, the option to use the new Morar cemetery was not clear-cut; 
• options relating to Ashaig cemetery on Skye should now be consulted on with the newly re-formed Community Council; 
• the options for various cemeteries on Skye, particularly at Skeabost and Ashaig, should be reported to an Eilean a' Cheò Ward Business Meeting; and 
• if a cemetery was not included on any of the lists, this meant that it had adequate capacity for a minimum of 20 years.
The Committee:-
i. APPROVED the updated programme of cemetery extensions and replacements 
   as set out in Appendix A of the report; and
ii. AGREED to report back to an Eilean a' Cheò Ward Business Meeting regarding 

   the current position of cemeteries in Skye, particularly at Skeabost and Ashaig.

11.  Environmental Health Operational Plan 2014/15
Plana Gnìomhach Slàinte san Àrainneachd 2014/15
There had been circulated Report No TEC-9-14 (257kb pdf) dated 24 January 2014 by the Environmental Health Manager which invited Members to approve the Environmental Health Operational Plan for 2014/15.
During a summary of the report, attention was drawn to some of the key objectives for 2014/15 for Environmental Health which included preparing a new Joint Health Protection Plan for the area; taking forward recommendations from the Scottish Government ‘VTEC/E.coli O157 Action Plan for Scotland 2013-2017’; and working with the Scottish Government and the Food Standards Agency Scotland on the introduction of the new Scottish Food Safety Body ‘Food Standards Scotland’.  Reference was made to the age profile of staff within Environmental Health which showed a significant proportion in the “over 50” category.  In response to this, three new student Environmental Health Officers had been recruited and other options were being investigated to attract younger trainees.

The Committee APPROVED the Environmental Health Operational Plan for 2014/15.

12.  Review of Caravan Site Licensing Conditions
Ath-sgrùdadh air Cumhaichean Ceadachd Làraich Charabhanaichean
There had been circulated Report No TEC-10-14 (39kb pdf) dated 23 January 2014 by the Environmental Health Manager which invited Members to agree to review and update Holiday and Touring Caravan site licence conditions in accordance with current legislation and best practice.
During a summary of the report, it was confirmed that there were 106 caravan sites currently licensed in the Highland Council area and a detailed breakdown of the number and types of licences was provided.  The Scottish Government had no plans to update Caravan Holiday and Touring site licence conditions and therefore Environmental Health proposed a review of licence conditions to ensure they remained appropriate and reflected current legal standards.  For existing sites, it was proposed that officers consult individual proprietors on implementing the new conditions.  It was also proposed that the new standard site licence conditions should apply to any new application and to any new extension to existing sites.

In response to questions from Members, it was explained that:-

• the requirement for stock-proof fencing around touring parks related mainly to sheep and cattle. Deer fencing would not be required; and 
• information would be provided to Mr Murphy on any differences in conditions required for Traveller sites compared to Touring sites.
The Committee:-
i. AGREED to review and update Holiday and Touring Caravan site licence 
   conditions in accordance with current legislation and best practice;
ii. AGREED to adopt the Holiday and Touring Caravan site licence conditions for 
   new and for new extensions to existing sites; and
iii. NOTED for existing licensed sites, officers would consult individual proprietors on 

   implementing the new conditions.

13.  Conditions for Licensed Animal Establishment
Cumhaichean airson Ionad le Ceadachd Beathaichean a Chumail
There had been circulated Report No TEC-11-14 (16kb pdf) dated 24 January 2014 by the Environmental Health Manager which advised Members on changes to national guidance on conditions for Animal Boarding Establishments and Pet Shops and which invited Members to agree to adopt the new conditions for premises licensed by the Council.
During a summary of the report, it was explained that Working Groups comprising representatives of the Local Government Association, Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, British Veterinary Association and other relevant trade associations had recently produced new model conditions and guidance for Cat Boarding Establishments and Pet Vending.  The guidance took account of new knowledge of animal physiology and behaviour as well as updated standards of animal welfare introduced by the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2006. New conditions for Dog Boarding and Dog Breeding were still being considered.
Reference was made to a letter which had received from a member of the public seeking that the recommendations should apply to both existing and new licensed animal establishments.  Having taken advice from officials it was felt this could be accommodated.
The Committee AGREED:-
i. for cat boarding establishments, to adopt, as a guide for licence conditions for 
   new and for new extensions to existing establishments, the model licence 
   conditions and guidance for cat boarding establishments published in 2013 by the 
   Chartered Institute of Environmental Health;
ii. for dog boarding establishments, the licence conditions for new and existing 
   establishments be amended to include a condition with a specific reference to a 
   50mm limit on aperture size; and
iii. for Pet Shops, to adopt, as a guide for licence conditions for new and for new 
   extensions to existing establishments, the model licence conditions and guidance 
   for Pet Vending Licensing published in 2013 by the Chartered Institute of 
   Environmental Health.
In terms of Standing Order 18, the Committee AGREED that Item 15 be taken at this point in the proceedings.
15. Scottish Government Consultation - Promoting Responsible Dog Ownership in Scotland: Micro-chipping and Other Measures
Co-chomhairle Riaghaltas na h-Alba – A’ Brosnachadh Sealbh Chunntachail Chon ann an Alba: Cleachdadh Micro-chip agus Ceumannan Eile
There had been circulated Report No TEC-13-14 (79kb pdf) dated 27 January 2014 by the Environmental Health Manager which invited Members to approve the Council’s response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on “Promoting responsible dog ownership in Scotland: micro-chipping and other measures” on which responses had been sought by 31 March 2014.
Members’ attention was drawn to the proposed response in relation to the introduction of a compulsory micro-chipping scheme for dogs.  Overall the response was in favour of micro-chipping as it would assist with the identification of stray dogs and illegal dog breeders.  In regard to dog licensing, the advantages this would bring over micro-chipping had to be carefully considered.  Continuing, it was pointed out that the response did not support the muzzling of dogs, other than the selective use under a Dog Control Notice, and it was felt that current powers were sufficient to deal with dog fouling.
The Committee APPROVED the Council’s response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on “Promoting responsible dog ownership in Scotland: micro-chipping and other measures” as set out in Appendix 1 of the report.

The Committee adjourned for lunch at 1.00 p.m. and resumed at 1.45 p.m.

14.  Improvement Action Plan in Response to the 2012 Employee Survey
Plana-gnìomh Leasachaidh mar Fhreagairt do Shuirbhidh Luchd-obrach 2012
There had been circulated Report No TEC-12-14 (225kb pdf) dated 27 January 2014 by the Human Resources Partner (Transport, Environmental and Community Services) which invited Members to approve an Improvement Action Plan developed in response to the results of the 2012 Employee Survey following direct consultation with staff and Trade Unions within the Service.
It was explained that due to Transport, Environmental and Community Services (TECS) carrying out a wide range of functions and staff being organised in different ways across the Service, it was unlikely that a set of improvements could fit all parts of the Service.  It was proposed, therefore, that each Section manager and team representatives would use the plan to create actions for their own part of the Service.  This would ensure continued engagement with staff that was appropriate and relevant allowing specific actions to reflect needs of the section across the Service.  Progress against the action plan would be monitored through the Performance and Risk Management System on a quarterly basis, and reported to Finance, Housing and Resources Committee in October 2014.
Issues raised during a summary of the report included the efforts that had been made to reach staff who did not use electronic means of communication in their day to day work and some of the actions that had been implemented immediately, such as giving feedback and praise to staff or improving employee engagement.  A realistic and practical action plan had been drawn up, with the ultimate aim of bringing together the action plans for TECS and for Housing and Property into a combined plan for the new Service.
During discussion, Members commented as follows:-
• it was welcomed that officers from the Senior Management Team had responsibility for key actions; 
• a review was being undertaken of back office processes such as the compatibility of different computer systems which could help improve morale; 
• it was hoped that future surveys would have a higher response rate; 
• a policy of face-to-face management in the Waste section of TECS had been instrumental in reducing absence through sickness and it was hoped a similar approach would be rolled out across other areas of the Service; 
• with reference to the Employee Survey Working Group, Members should be aware of the impact on staff morale when Members criticised reduced services when it was a Members’ decision to cut a particular budget; and 
• early consultation should be undertaken with staff prior to any significant changes being implemented.
The Committee:- 
i. APPROVED the Improvement Plan, as detailed in Appendix D of the report; and
ii. NOTED that these actions would be rolled forward to the new services as 

   appropriate.

16.  Revenue Budget 2013/14 – Monitoring
Buidseat Teachd-a-steach 2013/14 –Sgrùdadh 
There had been circulated Report No TEC-14-14 (49kb pdf) dated 24 January 2014 by the Service Finance Manager which invited Members to approve the revenue budget monitoring position for the period 1 April to 31 December 2013.
During a summary of the report, it was confirmed that expenditure was currently in line with the budget out-turn target which represented an improvement on the last monitoring statement (to 30 September 2013) which had shown a predicted overspend of £0.105m.  The Service was aware of some anomalies that might still distort the financial position for the current financial year and these were highlighted together with major issues and variances.
Current expenditure on Winter Maintenance was now in the order of £2.8m, approximately half of the annual budget, while the Cyclical Budget was around the level of the annual budget.  With the Winter Maintenance budget being 50% unspent, the workforce was being used on drainage works and, if the present mild weather conditions continued, there would be a significant amount of activity on the road network before the end of the financial year.  Reference too was made to the recent storms which had taken place before Christmas and it was reported that the costs incurred, with further costs still to be incurred, were estimated to be of the order of £0.450m.  At present these costs had not been reflected in the monitoring statement but a report back to Members would be made regarding the overall position, including the effect of the storms which had taken place the previous weekend, as referred to earlier in the meeting.
During discussion, reference was made to the Council decision to welcome bids for roads to the Strategic Development Fund and it was confirmed that a report would be made to the next Committee providing detail as to how the £1m had been spent.
Members welcomed the activity which would take place on the road network for the remainder of the financial year.  Clarification was sought if this would be confined to filling, patching and surface dressing but it was explained that, although structural maintenance schemes had been held back to avoid potential overspends, it was hoped these schemes could progress before the end of the financial year.  It was suggested that such work should start as soon as possible, and not wait until March when it could appear that a plethora of work was taking place, but it was necessary for the January budget figures to be made available before decisions could be taken as to how plant, labour and materials could be best used and to bring the budget in on target.  
In addition, some Members also suggested using some of the remaining budget to pay overtime to allow some of the backlog of work to be undertaken.  In particular, concern was expressed that, although money was available for play areas, in some wards it had been reported that there was no-one available to install the equipment, the workforce being fully utilised on road maintenance.  Furthermore, in response to a query regarding car park income in Inverness and Fort William not achieving their budget target, it was explained that the income generated had remained consistent with previous years but the shortfall was as a result of income targets themselves being raised.
A request was also made that revenue monitoring items be taken earlier on agendas given that finance related to the majority of items discussed at meetings.

The Committee APPROVED the report and the monitoring statements which showed the revenue position for the period 1 April to 31 December 2013 and the actions which had been put in place to manage the budget over the remainder of the financial year.

17.  Capital Expenditure 2013/14 – Monitoring
Caiteachas Calpa 2013/14 – Sgrùdadh
There had been circulated Report No TEC-15-14 (117kb pdf) dated 21 January 2014 by the Service Finance Manager which invited Members to approve the capital expenditure monitoring position for the period 1 April to 31 December 2013.
During a summary of the report, it was confirmed that the projected outturns for expenditure and income were £26.719m and £3.028m respectively, leading to an underspend of £1.037m.  The underspend was primarily due to contractual delays in relation to Phase 1 of the River Ness Flood Prevention and on the delay of major works on the B851/B862 South Loch Ness Road Improvements.  However, Members were reminded that the Council had over-programmed the Capital Programme by £10m on the basis that there would be some degree of slippage and the reported underspend would go towards compensating part of this. 
In discussion appreciation was expressed regarding the completion of the new public convenience in Invergordon.  Reference too was made to the approach from a community group in Evanton who were raising money towards providing a public convenience in their area and support was sought to help them realise this project.  However, it was pointed out that there were other communities who had similar aspirations and it would be inappropriate to make any budgetary commitment at this stage.

The Committee APPROVED the capital expenditure monitoring position for the period 1 April to 31 December 2013.

18.  Minutes
Geàrr-chunntas
The Committee APPROVED the Minutes of the Fishery Harbours Management Board of 12 December 2013 (39kb pdf) and of 13 January 2014 (44kb pdf), as circulated and tabled respectively.

The meeting ended at 2.15 pm.

Valedictory
As this was the last meeting of the Transport, Environmental and Community Services Committee prior to the new Committee structure being put in place, the Chairman thanked Members for their help and courtesy over his previous two years in the Chair.



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