Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee held in the Council Chamber, Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Wednesday, 8 November 2017 at 10.30 am.

Present:

Mr G Adam
Mr R Balfour
Mrs J Barclay
Mr R Bremner (Substitute)
Miss J Campbell
Dr I Cockburn
Mr C Fraser
Mr J Gray
Mr A Henderson
Mrs L MacDonald
Mr D MacKay
Mr W MacKay (by video conferencing)
Mrs I MacKenzie
Ms A MacLean
Mr D MacLeod
Mr R MacWilliam
Mr J McGillivray
Mr H Morrison
Mr A Rhind (Substitute)
Mrs T Robertson
Mr A Sinclair (by video conferencing)
Mr C Smith
Ms M Smith

Non-Members also present:

Mrs H Carmichael
Mr K Gowans
Mr R Laird 
Mr B Lobban    
Mrs D Mackay
Ms L Munro
Ms P Munro
Mr P Saggers

In attendance:

Mr S Black, Director of Development and Infrastructure
Mr W Gilfillan, Director of Community Services 
Ms C Campbell, Head of Performance and Resources, Community Services
Mr D Goldie, Head of Housing and Building Maintenance, Community Services
Mr C Howell, Head of Infrastructure, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr F MacDonald, Head of Property Services, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr A Maguire, Head of Development and Regeneration, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr B Porter, Head of Resources, Care and Learning Services
Mr A Summers, Head of Environmental and Amenity Services, Community Services
Ms T Urry, Head of Roads and Transport, Community Services
Mr S Dalgarno, Development Plans Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr S Duncan, Property Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr M Fraser, Finance Manager (Partnerships and JV), Finance Service
Mr A McCann, Economy and Regeneration Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr M Mitchell, Finance Manager (Community Services/Development and Infrastructure), Finance Service
Ms N Wallace, Environment Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr A Yates, Environmental Health Manager, Community Services
Mr K MacInnes, Principal Economy Officer, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr K Masson, Climate Change Officer, Development and Infrastructure Service
Ms H De Haas, Climate Change Coordinator, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr A Puls, Principal Officer – Building Conservation and Environment, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr C Simpson, Principal Tourism and Film Officer, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr D Summers, Principal Transport Officer, Community Services
Miss J Maclennan, Principal Administrator, Corporate Development Service
Ms F MacBain, Committee Administrator, Corporate Development Service
Mr S Taylor, Administrative Assistant, Corporate Development Service

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

Mr A Henderson in the Chair

Business

Preliminaries

During the meeting the Chair paid tribute to James Hickey, who was tragically killed in a car accident in August.  James was a mechanic based in the Aviemore workshop.  He was 22 years old and had joined as an apprentice mechanic aged 17.  He had a bright future ahead of him and would be sadly missed by his colleagues.

1. Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mr M Finlayson, Mr J Gordon, Mr C MacLeod and Mr N McLean.

2. Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 13 – Mrs H Carmichael (non-financial)
Item 15 – Mrs L MacDonald (non-financial)
Item 16 – Mrs L MacDonald (financial) and Mrs T Robertson (non-financial)
Item 22 – Mr A Henderson (non-financial)
Item 31 – Mrs T Robertson (non-financial)

3. Good News
Naidheachdan Matha

The following areas of good news were reported:-

• MSc Transport, Planning and Engineering

Laura Jamieson, Technician had received confirmation of her MSc in Transport, Planning and Engineering in mid-September and was currently working in the Road Safety Team, Development and Infrastructure.

• The Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland

Barry Cumming, Scientific Officer passed his Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS) Professional exams in October and was due to start working as a fully qualified Environmental Health Officer in the mid-Highland area.

• Certificate Presentation

Two Highland Council officers saved a colleague’s life in February 2017, when he suffered a severe heart attack.  The officers administered CPR and the colleague, Ian Wilson, had gone on to make a good recovery.  The officers, John Reid (Environmental Health), and Richard Duncan (Trading Standards) were presented with the Inverness Civic Medal at the Inverness City Committee on 19 June 2017.  They had both recently been awarded the Resuscitation Certificate from the Royal Humane Society and were presented with their award at the meeting.

• Carbon Clever

The Carbon CLEVER team had recently been awarded the SCDI Award for Excellence in Environmental Sustainability for two specific projects:  The Carbon CLEVER Community Grant Fund and Highland Climate Challenge game pilot for primary schools.

• Highland Council Quality Awards

Trainee of the Year Award had gone to Kyle Dempster, an apprentice mechanic from the Fort William Workshop.  Kyle was nominated by Sandy MacDonald who himself started as an apprentice mechanic with the Council 39 years ago.   Kyle would receive his award at the Council’s Quality Awards ceremony at the end of November.

Kyle was also recognised as trainee of the year by Moray Firth Group Training which provided training for the Council’s apprentice mechanics.

The Committee NOTED the items of Good News.

3a. Urgent Additional Item: Establishment and/or Appointment of Working Groups, Boards and Outside Bodies
Stèidheachadh agus/no Cur an Dreuchd Bhuidhnean Obrach, Bhòrd agus Bhuidhnean on Taobh A-muigh

In terms of Standing Order 17.2, the Committee AGREED to take the following urgent items of business.

i. Harbours Management Board
Bòrd Rianachd nan Calachan

* The Committee AGREED TO RECOMMEND to the Council that Kirsteen Currie be appointed to the Harbours Management Board in place of Mr Calum MacLeod.

ii. HITRANS Tier 1 Ferry Users Consultation Groups
Buidhnean Co-chomhairleachaidh Luchd-cleachdaidh Aiseagan Ìre 1 HITRANS

The Committee AGREED to appoint Dr I Cockburn to the Hebrides Ferry Users Consultation Group which covered Barra, North and South Uist, Harris, Lewis and links to Skye in place of Mr Calum MacLeod.

4. Development and Infrastructure Service Revenue Budget Monitoring to 30 September 2017
Sgrùdadh Teachd-a-steach Buidseat Seirbheis an Leasachaidh is a’ Bhun-structair gu 30 Sultain 2017

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/01/17 dated 25 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, confirmation was sought, and received that expenditure on Public Local Inquiries could vary depending on the amount of work required in each individual case and that this was also reflected in the varying level of fees paid to solicitors.

The Committee APPROVED the revenue monitoring position for the period 1 April 2017 to 30 September 2017 and the actions which had been put in place to manage the budget over the remainder of the financial year.

5. Capital Expenditure Monitoring to 30 September 2017
Sgrùdadh Caiteachais Chalpa gu 30 Sultain 2017

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/02/17 dated 30 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• concern was expressed regarding the condition of some schools in the Highlands and that, whilst a number projects had been identified within the 2018/19 programme, some of these would be carried forward from the previous years’ programme.  Therefore, a request was made that a list of schools requiring urgent attention be drawn up;
• a request was made for more concise updates on the works required to bring schools up to standards to be brought to parent councils and other stakeholder groups;
• the importance of keeping the local community updated on works in relation to the replacement of White Bridge on the B9090 was emphasised;
• a request was made for a report to be brought to the Nairnshire Committee providing an update on the Flood Prevention Scheme at Auldearn Burn;
• concern was expressed regarding the potential impact repairs to roads listed in the capital programme within Ward 5 (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh) could have if the allocation of funding for these schemes was received just prior to the start of the tourist season.  This could result in the commencement of these works taking place during the summer;
• a request was made for further detail on when proposed works to the Ullapool Primary School Early Learning Childcare project would commence;
• clarification was sought regarding the potential impact structural problems identified during phase 1 of the Inverness High School project could have on the overall budget for the project.  In response, it was emphasised that the intention was to deliver the full scope of works originally planned; however, early indications from consultants had identified that a greater sum was likely to be required to undertake the full project and that scope for additional funding could be subject to the outcome of the review into the Council’s capital programme.  It was suggested that a detailed briefing could be provided to Local Members;
• confirmation was sought, and received, that Merkinch Primary School had been identified as a priority project by the People Committee and that officers were seeking to move this project forward;
• follow a request, a brief update was provided on the current position of the Newhall Bridge project, during which it was explained that there were issues in relation to land access and that further updates could be provided to Local Members;
• confirmation was sought, and received, that any underspend on roads structural capital works within the current financial year would be carried forward into the following year; and
• the Chair of Resources was working hard to ensure that as many of the projects listed within the capital programme would be delivered.

The Committee APPROVED:-

1. the capital expenditure monitoring position for the period 1 April 2017 to 30 September 2017; and
2. an increase in the gross budget for the Fort William Office Project Phase 2 by £0.6m, to be funded by the Property Rationalisation line in the capital programme.  The property rationalisation budget would be included in the Council’s capital programme review which was currently underway.

6. Property Revenue Maintenance Budget 2017/18 Budget Allocation
Riarachadh Buidseit airson Buidseat Cumail Suas Teachd-a-steach Seilbhe 2017/18

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/03/17 dated 17 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee APPROVED the proposed work categories and budget allocations for the 2017/18 Property Revenue Maintenance Budget.

7. Quarter 2 Performance Review
Ath-sgrùdadh Coileanaidh Cairteil 2

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/04/17 dated 31 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• confirmation was sought, and received, that the small applications team which had recently been established to assist in improving performance in dealing with planning applications consisted of existing staff seconded from within the service;
• confirmation was sought, and received, that the proposed changes to the charges for street naming and numbering reflected the administrative costs to the Council of informing the Post Office; and
• in highlighting the Road Construction Consent Project, it was suggested that community councils should be consulted on the proposed changes as there could be problems accessing the online form in some areas where broadband connectivity required improvement.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the performance updates for the Development Management, Building Standards and Development Plans teams;
2. NOTED progress with the eRoad Construction Consent project; and
3. AGREED to the amended schedule of charges for Street Naming and Numbering functions

8. Development and Infrastructure Service Workforce Plan
Plana Sgioba-obrach Seirbheis an Leasachaidh is a’ Bhun-structair

There had been circulated Report No EDI/05/17 dated 18 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

Speaking to the report, the Director provided details of the estimated target dates for the Action Plan at Appendix 3 of the report as follows:-

• Requirement for agile more responsive workforce – April 2018;
• Performance Management – September 2018;
• Project Management – May 2018; and
• Transition and succession planning – September 2018

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• in welcoming the opportunities afforded to young people through training schemes, reassurance was sought, and received, that the service was seeking to attract more young people into working within the service through youth trainee schemes and modern apprenticeships;
• in highlighting the drive towards localism, which had been identified as a principle within the Workforce Plan, confirmation was sought, and received, that staff within the service would be retained within local areas;
• the Council required an agile and responsive workforce and for staff to understand the need to meet Member and public requirements on service delivery and customer care.  Concern was expressed however regarding the length of time it could take staff to respond to enquiries from customers.  In response, it was explained that staff working remotely might not be able to respond to enquiries whilst they were out of the office; However, in recognition of the importance of responding to customer enquiries promptly, the service had introduced a help desk function to deal with initial enquiries; and 
• requests were made for the following information:-
  • Gender balance split in the workforce figures;
  • The number of agency staff currently working within the service;
  • Figures providing a breakdown of the age groups within the workforce.

The Committee otherwise APPROVED the Development and Infrastructure Service Workforce Plan 2017 - 2021.

9. Economy and Regeneration Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Eaconamaidh agus Ath-nuadhachadh

There had been circulated Report No EDI/06/17 dated 31 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• the Chair referred to the opportunities presented by the large numbers of visitors to the Highlands;
• the Council Leader had brought the problems associated with the North Coast 500 to the attention of the Scottish Government and, although these problems did not over-ride the considerable benefits of the route designation, the supporting infrastructure required to be developed accordingly. Progress with tourism hubs for Wester Ross was slow;
• information was sought on the success of Business Gateway beneficiaries from the previous 5-10 years;
• the regional partnership was welcomed but its membership would benefit from a refresh; and
• an update was sought on the employment status of the youth trainees.  In response, the Committee was informed that the scheme was a critical input into young people’s development and that further analysis would be required to track their progress.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the report and the key developments highlighted during quarter 2 and emerging activity;
2. AGREED to a refocused Economic Forum to act as the Regional Partnership for Highland to drive forward co-ordinated and focused action on common priorities for the Highland economy; and
3. AGREED that information be sought on previous business gateway outcomes and consideration given to its inclusion in the Members’ newsletter.

10. Climate Change
Atharrachadh Aimsir

Items 10i, 10ii and 10iii were considered jointly and comments are detailed under 10ii.

i. Annual Report under Public Bodies Climate Change Duties 2016/17
Aithisg Bhliadhnail fo Dhleastanasan Atharrachadh Aimsir nam Buidhnean Poblach 2016/17

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/07/17 dated 19 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee AGREED that the 2016/17 report be submitted as part of the mandatory reporting process under the Public Bodies Climate Change Duties.

ii. Annual Progress Report on the Carbon Management Plan 2016/17
Aithisg Adhartais Bhliadhnail mun Phlana Rianachd Càrboin 2016/17

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/08/17 dated 19 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

Prior to introducing the report, two small errors were highlighted: the reference in paragraph 2.1 should be to paragraph 5.1, and reference in paragraph 3.4 should be to paragraph 3.6.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• the Chair welcomed the various office rationalisation projects that were being undertaken;
• the importance of raising awareness of environmental issues and working to change behaviour was emphasised, as was the urgency of the situation. The waste strategy in particular required focus;
• reference was made to the importance of spending to save, as well as the financial savings that could be achieved over time through relatively small changes in behaviour and/or infrastructure;
• in relation to water bills, an update with corrected information would be provided to the Committee in due course;
• in relation to the anticipated annual carbon savings from all projects implemented by the organisation in the year ahead, information was sought, and provided, on when the financial out-turn for these would be available;
• information was sought on the development of a Unified Communications video-conferencing link between Golspie and Kyle of Lochalsh;
• information having been sought on the maintenance of the electric vehicle charging points, it was explained that HiTrans was putting together a Highland-wide strategy and, as technology improved, charging points were becoming more reliable. Information would be provided outwith the meeting on the charging point at Achnasheen that had been agreed in 2016 but was not yet in place;
• reference was made to the need to reduce excessive packaging, with direct lobbying of specific companies suggested;
• given the level of detail within the reports it would be helpful for concise ‘headline’ facts to be summarised and publicised in a Press release;
• Members were encouraged to sign up to the Green Ambassador Campaign; and
• consideration should be given in future to including procurement in the Carbon Management Plan.

The Committee AGREED:-

1. the following remedial action to improve performance and to refocus on areas where emissions and costs were highest and increasing:-
   • a programme of measures, as detailed at para 3.1 of the report, to be rolled out to expedite progress towards meeting targets set out in the CMP in 2017/18;
   • revision and update of the Carbon Management Plan to set out a carbon reduction pathway through to 2023, taking in to account the Council’s new programme plan and Scottish Government ambition as detailed in the new Climate Change Bill;
2. to issue a Press Release highlighting the progress the Council had made in carbon reduction and to promote public awareness of climate change; and
3. to encourage Members to sign up to the Green Ambassador Campaign.

iii. Carbon CLEVER Capital Budget
Cuibhreann Calpa Chàrboin CHIALLAICH

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/09/17 dated 19 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee NOTED spend in 2016/17 and AGREED the proposals for spend in 2017/18.

11. European Engagement
Com-pàirteachas Eòrpach

There had been circulated Report No EDI/10/17 dated 23 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• with regard to the lack of clarity in relation to Brexit negotiations, especially concerning workforce planning given the high percentage of Highland businesses relying on migrant workers, the Chair was asked to write to the UK Government expressing the concerns of the Highland Council in relation to the region’s reliance on migrant workers from the European Union. It was suggested that Local Authorities in the North of Scotland work together to ensure positive outcomes for all.  Concern was expressed at the numbers of migrant workers that had indicated an intention to leave the UK and not return;
• reference was made to the Scottish Government’s recognition of local needs, specifically the recent contribution of £6m towards the needs of rural tourism;
• there had been various valuable projects that had received LEADER or European Maritime and Fisheries Fund monies and action was urged to ensure projects were found for any remaining funds; and
• information having been sought on ‘Scotland’s 8th City – the Smart City’, a report was due to be presented to the next meeting of the committee.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the European work currently undertaken by the Council and how it works collaboratively with other partners through the Highlands and Islands European Partnership;
2. NOTED the potential impacts on Highland and the Highland Council that may arise as a result of the UK decision to leave the EU;
3. AGREED to endorse the approach to continuing the Council’s engagement as described in paragraph 5.4 of the report; and
4. AGREED the Chair write to the UK Government expressing the concerns of the Highland Council in relation to the region’s reliance on migrant workers from the European Union.

12. Inverness Airport Business Park Ltd – Unsecured Loan Stock
Pàirc Gnothachais Port-adhair Inbhir Nis Eta – Stoc Iasaid Neo-ghlaiste

There had been circulated joint Report No EDI/11/17 dated 23 October 2017 by the Director of Corporate Resources and the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

Several Members referred to previous Council decisions that had been taken in relation to the Unsecured Loan Stock that had led to the current situation. Concern was expressed at the prospect of the loan stock remaining outstanding for a considerable period of time, particularly that repayment of the Council loan stock could be superseded by any further loans taken out by the company, and further information was sought on actions that could be taken to remedy this, with various suggestions being proposed including taking legal advice to clarify options to recover the amount due. The Director and various Members referred to the history of the project and the reasons for the recommendation in the report, the details of which were documented in the report.

Following further discussion, Members remained concerned about the outstanding loan stock and the lack of certainty around the timescales for repayment and requested the matter be further considered by the Council’s Legal Services to establish whether any further actions could be taken to pursue the repayment of the loan stock, this to be reported back at to the February or May Committee meeting in 2018.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the outcome of the assessment of Inverness Airport Business Park Ltd’s 2016/17 Annual Accounts and the implications for repayment of the Council’s Outstanding Loan Stock; and
2. AGREED that a report be brought to the Committee meeting in February or May 2018 updating Members with officer investigations as to the position on recovering the repayment of the Council’s Outstanding Loan Stock.

13. Inverness Business Improvement District
Raon Leasachadh Gnothachais Inbhir Nis

Declaration of Interest

Mrs H Carmichael declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Director of the Board of Inverness Business Improvement District but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that her interest did not preclude her from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No EDI/12/17 dated 20 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee APPROVED the assessment made in Appendix 1 of the report relative to the draft Inverness BID Proposal and AGREED not to exercise the Council’s right of veto, subject to the final BID proposal not materially affecting the assessment made.

The Committee further AGREED that if, upon receipt of the final BID Business Plan, it was considered that changes had been made which affected the assessment made in Appendix 1 of the report, authority be delegated to the Director of Development and Infrastructure in consultation with the Chair of EDI Committee to seek the necessary amendments to the final BID proposal, failing which, a further report would be brought to Council on 14 December 2017.

14. Beinn Tharsuinn Windfarm Community Limited
Coimhearsnachd Tuathanas Gaoithe na Beinne Tarsainn Eta

There had been circulated Report No EDI/13/17 dated 12 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

Following a query in relation to what time limits were in place for communities to spend their funds, the Committee:-

1. NOTED the activities of Beinn Tharsuinn Windfarm Community Limited; and
2. AGREED to accept, on behalf of The Highland Council, the Financial Statement of Beinn Tharsuinn Windfarm Community Limited for the year ending 31 March 2017.

15. Draft Developer Contributions Supplementary Guidance
Dreachd Iùl Leasachail mu Thabhartasan Luchd-leasachaidh

Declaration of Interest

Mrs L MacDonald declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds that she owned an area of land in the Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan and left the Chamber during discussion of the item.

There had been circulated Report No EDI/14/17 dated 25 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• the Chair highlighted the value of the Policy Development Group having had input into the development of the guidance;
• with reference to a proposal stating ‘small scale residential development of 1-3 homes will receive a discount to reflect economies of scale and the need to maintain development viability; these discounts range from 70-80%,’ concern was expressed that 70-80% might be too high and that consideration be given to discounts for social housing. It was clarified these figures had been benchmarked against other Local Authorities and that social housing contributions formed part of the consultation;
• information was sought, and provided, on the possibility of seeking developer contributions from small hydro schemes; and
• it was pointed out that significant levels of public art contributions were being sought from the new justice centre and the prison but not from smaller residential schemes.

The Committee:-

1. AGREED the draft Developer Contributions Supplementary Guidance at Appendix 1 for consultation; and
2. NOTED that, from the point of approval by Committee, the Draft Developer Contributions Supplementary Guidance was a material consideration for the determination of planning applications.

The Committee broke for lunch from 1.05pm until 1.45pm

16. Strategic Housing Investment
Tasgadh Ro-innleachdail Taigheadais 

Declarations of Interest

Mrs L MacDonald declared a financial interest in this item on the grounds that she owned an area of land within the Highland Strategic Housing Investment Plan and left the room during discussion of the item.

Mrs T Robertson declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Director of Highland Housing Alliance but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that her interest did not preclude her from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No EDI/15/17 dated 31 October 2017 by the Director Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• regarding the Mid-market Rent Programme and the aim of the project to deliver high quality housing for young people under the City-Region deal, it was confirmed that all housing provided by the Council was of high-quality and that this aim reflected the Council’s submission to the Scottish Government to offer young people attractive, affordable housing in the Highlands and encourage them to stay in the region;
• whilst it was suggested that rural areas should receive a greater allocation of funding for housing to retain young people, the allocation of funding investment in each housing market area statistical had reflected the evidence received from the Highland’s Housing Need and Demand Assessment.  Members were advised that if there were any communities with specific requirements, a more detailed housing needs assessment could be undertaken and any evidence collated could be used to justify to the Scottish Government a need for increased housing resources within these areas;
• regarding the potential for some sites to fall out of the indicative investment programme, it was highlighted that many of the projects included within the programme were at the initial feasibility stage and that analysis at a future stage might identify potential issues such as infrastructure;
• confirmation was sought, and received, that whilst there was an opportunity to seek more funding from the Scottish Government for disabled access housing, this would be on the basis that funding would mirror the Council’s investment up to a maximum of 44%; and
• regarding the potential to save money through pre-fabricated buildings, attention was drawn to  the “FIT Home” design pilot scheme currently being undertaken by Albyn Housing Society in Alness.  Depending on its success, there was potential for the scheme to be introduced into other areas within the Highlands.

The Committee APPROVED:-

1. the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, as submitted to the Scottish Government in draft form, included within Appendix 1 of the report;
2. the  indicative investment programme, included within Appendix 2;
3. that exceptional cost Council house build projects be agreed by the Director of Development and Infrastructure, in consultation with Local Members, the Director of Corporate Resources and the Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee;
4. the use of prudential borrowing to support mid-market developments identified within the SHIP on the basis that individual projects would be subject to approval of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee; and
5. funding of £1,700,000, utilising the Council’s ability to access prudential borrowing, be loaned to the Highland Housing Alliance, on terms and conditions to be agreed by the Director of Development and Infrastructure and the Director of Corporate Resources, to fund Mid-market rent housing in Drumnadrochit and Inverness.

17. Property Management Policy
Poileasaidh Rianachd Cuid-seilbhe

There had been circulated Report No EDI/16/17 dated 16 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, confirmation was sought, and received that revenue maintenance of school estates was included within the Policy

The Committee APPROVED the adoption of the Property Management Policy.

18. Shopfront Design Guide:  Planning Guidance (Consultation Draft)
Iùl Dealbhaidh Aghaidh-bhùithtean: Stiùireadh Dealbhaidh (Dreachd Cho-chomhairle)

There had been circulated Report No EDI/17/17 dated 24 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• in highlighting the importance of signs and signals within the built environment, concern was expressed at the lack of consistency in design.  It was important to ensure that both visitors and local people shopping were comfortable within the surrounding built environment;
• the importance of the Guidance to the development of an environment within the city centre that was economically sustainable was emphasised;
• in welcoming the Guidance, the improvements to shop frontages in Nairn,  following the introduction of a shop front scheme, was highlighted;
• whilst a request was made for a report to be brought to the Nairnshire Committee to give Local Members the opportunity to put their views forward to the consultation, the Chair suggested that this might be more appropriate for discussion at a Ward Business Meeting; and
• in highlighting the Dingwall Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme and the efforts made by local business to make their streets more vibrant, it was emphasised that enforcement of the Guidance was required within local conservation areas to prevent shop and home owners installing signage and windows that did not reflect the surrounding built environment.

The Committee APPROVED the Shopfront Design Guide: Planning Guidance for public release and 6 week consultation.

19. Community Services Revenue Budget 2017/18 – Monitoring to 30 September 2017
Buidseat Teachd-a-steach nan Seirbheisean Coimhearsnachd 2017/18 – Sgrùdadh

There had been circulated Report No EDI/18/17 dated 18 October 2017 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• by bringing in the Public Convenience Service, as well as grounds maintenance, in-house over £1m in savings had been achieved and the staff responsible were commended;
• information was sought as to how many of the authority’s public conveniences had introduced charges and it was stated this information would be forwarded to Members.  In addition, counters had been introduced to some public conveniences and it was explained that this was to establish if it was feasible to introduce charges;
• the £400k shortfall on the car parking budget was as a result of setting an over-ambitious target in previous years.  In this regard, referring to the income from decriminalised parking enforcement, clarification was sought as to how this would be presented for monitoring purposes in future;
• the introduction of parking charges had been resisted in rural areas but Members in the Cromarty Firth Ward had explored a possible solution which, it was suggested, should be considered by the Redesign Board; and
• in response to a question as to what percentage of sodium street lights had been replaced with LED lanterns, it was stated that this information would be forwarded to Councillor MacLeod.

The Committee APPROVED the revenue budget monitoring position for the period from 1 April 2017 to 30 September 2017.

20.Community Services Performance Report
Aithisg Coileanaidh nan Seirbheisean Coimhearsnachd

There had been circulated Report No EDI/19/17 dated 31 October 2017 by the Director of Community Services.

Concern was raised that complaints made to the Service Point regarding matters such as potholes and street lights were not being picked up by Community Services timeously.  This might be as a result of the way issues were labelled/titled by the CRM system and a review of the process was required.

The Committee NOTED and scrutinised the information provided on Community Services performance from 1 April 2017 to 30 September 2017.

21. Community Services Workforce Plan
Plana Sgioba-obrach nan Seirbheisean Coimhearsnachd

There had been circulated Report No EDI/20/17 dated 16 October 2017 by the Director of Community Services.

The workforce Plan contained a lot of information and there was merit in providing Community Councils with a link to the report, particularly highlighting the good work being done by the Service.

The Committee NOTED the Community Services Workforce Plan 2017-2021.

22. Transport Team Re-structure
Ath-structar Sgioba na Còmhdhalach

Declaration of Interest

Mr A Henderson declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Director of HITRANS 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 EDI/21/17 dated 3 November 2017 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion, Members welcomed the taking back, in-house, of the timetable production from HiTrans and suggested that, with the streamlining of the service, other aspects might also be considered for returning back to the Service.  The Team’s processes was to be the subject of a LEAN review and it was hoped that this would consider if the considerable amount of monitoring which the Team undertook was necessary.  Looking to the future, community engagement would be increasingly important and, together with a reduction in monitoring and the addition of 2.5 FTE posts, this would enable the Team to continue to develop and implement community transport schemes by working with community transport providers and partners such as HiTrans.

The Committee:-

1. APPROVED the proposed structure for the Transport Services Team in Appendix 2; and
2. NOTED that the recommendation from the Redesign Board to transfer the budget and responsibility for home-to-school transport from Care and Learning to Community Services was being implemented and that a Service Level Agreement or Memorandum of Understanding was being developed to support this.

23. Update on Development of Waste Management Strategy for The Highland Council
Cunntas às Ùr mu Leasachadh Ro-innleachd Rianachd Sgudail airson Comhairle na Gàidhealtachd

There had been circulated Report No EDI/22/17 dated 8 November 2017 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• this strategy had been reviewed during the term of the previous Council and appreciation was expressed to officers for their hard work.  However, there would soon be a shortage of landfill sites in Scotland so robust action was now required to ensure that an Energy from Waste (EfW) Plant was included in the Capital Plan;
• the location of a EfW Plant would be contentious as would transportation but nevertheless these decisions had to be taken soon;
• there was an urgent need to reduce waste and to raise awareness of the issue but this was not the sole responsibility of the Council;
• a review for dealing with waste at viewpoints along the NC500 route was necessary; and
• a suggestion was made that income could be generated by advertising on wheelie bins but it was explained that wheelie bins were the property of the householder.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the work completed to date; and
2. AGREED that the Final Business Case be presented to the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee on 1 February 2018.

24. Road Structures – Annual Report
Structaran Rathaidean – Aithisg Bhliadhnail

There had been circulated Report No EDI/23/17 dated 3 November 2017 by the Director of Community Services.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the position of the Bridge Stock Condition Indicators in Highland;
2. NOTED the current position in Highland in relation to the number of structures inspections undertaken;
3. APPROVED the 2 year rolling programme for 2018-20 for the £350,000 Bridge Maintenance allocation of the Community Services Capital Programme; and
4. APPROVED the use of the current inspection regime while assessing the strategy for a move to a more risk-based approach by October 2018.

25. Standardisation of Procedures – Miscellaneous Licensing
Cunbhalachadh Mhodhan – Ceadachd Mheasgaichte

There had been circulated Report No EDI/24/17 dated 1 September 2017 by the Director of Community Services.

The Committee HOMOLOGATED the decision of the Director of Community Services to authorise implementation, from 1 September 2017, of the standard procedures set out in Appendix 2 of the report for the determination of licence applications made under the following legislation:-

• Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963
• Breeding of Dogs Acts 1973
• Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960
• Cinemas Act 1985
• Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976
• Deer (Scotland) Act 1996
• Guard Dogs Act 1975
• Performing Animals (Regulations) Act 1925
• Pet Animals Act 1951
• Riding Establishments Acts 1964 and 1970
• Theatres Act 1968
• Zoo Licensing Act 1981
• Licensing of Animal Dealers (Young Cats and Dogs) (Scotland) Regulations 2009

26. Local Bus and Concessionary Fares Consultations
Co-chomhairlean air Faraidhean Bhusaichean Ionadail agus Faraidhean le Lasachadh

There had been circulated Report No EDI/25/17 dated 25 October 2017 by the Director of Community Services.

The Committee APPROVED the draft responses as shown in Appendix 1 and 2 of the report.

27. Caithness and North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership Advisory Board – Minutes
Bòrd Comhairleachaidh Com-pàirteachas Ath-nuadhachaidh Ghallaibh agus Chataibh a Tuath – Geàrr-chunntas

There had been circulated Minutes of the meeting of the Caithness and North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership Advisory Board held on 21 March 2017.

Having expressed appreciation to the Partnership for their hard work and regular updates, the Committee otherwise NOTED the Minutes.

28.Minutes
Geàrr-chunntas        

The Committee NOTED the Minutes of the Planning Applications Committees (PAC), which had been circulated separately, for:-

1. North PAC – 1 August 2017;
2. South PAC – 8 August 2017;
3. North PAC – 12 September 2017; and
4. South PAC – 19 September 2017.

And APPROVED the Harbours Management Board Minutes of 8 September 2017.

29. Exclusion of The 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.

30. Property Transactions Monitoring Report
Aithisg Sgrùdaidh Ghnothachasan Seilbhe

There had been circulated to Members only Report No. EDI/26/17 dated 16 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee APPROVED the monitoring statements for General Fund and Property Account transactions as approved by the Head of Development & Regeneration under delegated authority as well the Budgeted Sales for 2017/18 and Future Years Sales.

31. Housing Development Initiatives
Iomairtean Leasachaidh Taigheadais

Declaration of Interest

Mrs T Robertson declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Director of Highland Housing Alliance but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that her interest did not preclude her from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated to Members only Report No. EDI/27/17 dated 31 October 2017 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee AGREED the recommendations as detailed in the report.

The meeting ended at 3.05 pm.