Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Ross and Cromarty Committee held in the Chamber, Council Offices, Dingwall on Wednesday, 31 January 2018 at 10.30am.

Present:

Ms I Campbell, Dr I Cockburn, Mr M Finlayson, Mr D Louden, Mrs A MacLean, Mr G MacKenzie, Mr D MacLeod, Mr A MacKinnon, Ms P Munro, Mrs M Paterson (Vice Chair). Mr A Rhind, Mrs F Robertson (Chair) and Ms K Stephen. 

Officials in Attendance:

Mrs H Ross, Senior Ward Manager, Chief Executive’s Office
Ms D Agnew, Ward Manager, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr R Bain, Ward Manager, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr S Manning, Principal Traffic Officer, Community Services
Ms L MacKellaich, Road Safety Officer, Development and Infrastructure Service
Ms S Wood, Education Quality Improvement Manager, Care and Learning Service  
Ms A Macrae, Committee Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office

Also in Attendance:

Mr C Alves, Community Resilience Facilitator (North), Scottish Ambulance Service
Chief Inspector I MacLelland, North Area Commander, Police Scotland
Mr M Bardelli, Area Manager, Transport Scotland
Mr S Urquhart, Traffic Safety Engineer, BEAR Scotland

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

Preliminaries

The Chair congratulated Dingwall Academy on winning the schools team event at the recent Strathpuffer 24 Mountain Bike Endurance Event and also for entering the first all-female schools team in the Quad section at the same event.

1.  Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mr G Adam, Mrs J Barclay, Mr C Fraser, Ms M Smith and Mrs C Wilson.

2.  Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 9 – Mrs A Maclean (non-financial)
Item 10 – Ms P Munro (non-financial)       
Item 12e and 13 – Mrs F Robertson and Mr A Rhind (non-financial)

3.  Minutes
Geàrr-chunntas

The Committee NOTED the Minutes of the last meeting which had been held on 31 October 2017 and had been approved by the Highland Council on 14 December 2017.

4.  Scottish Ambulance Service
Seirbheis Charbadan-eiridinn na h-Alba

Mr Chris Alves, Community Resilience Facilitator (North) gave a presentation on community resilience and community support for the Scottish Ambulance Service.

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

• the potential for the Scottish Ambulance Service to undertake more joint working around community resilience with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service volunteer staff in remote and rural areas;
• the Service be commended on the quality of training provided in the use of the defibrillators and reference to the fact the equipment was simple to use and self-explanatory;
• the aim going forward should be for a defibrillator to be provided in all premises used by the community in the area;
• confirmation was sought and provided that first responders benefited from similar flexibility as volunteer fire fighters in terms of being granted time off by their employers;
• the potential for more joint working to be undertaken with community planning partners with the aim of delivering more equipment and training across the area;
• it was important to highlight that many Members had helped to fund the purchase of defibrillators and training in the area through their ward discretionary budgets; and
• following a presentation by the charity Lucky2BHere to the Education, Children and Adult Services Committee in March 2017, it had been considered that the new Council should aim to ensure all schools in Highland were provided with a defibrillator and the relevant training, and the Chair referred to the importance of this being progressed going forward.    

Thereafter, having thanked the Community Resilience Facilitator for his attendance, the Committee NOTED the presentation.

5.  Police – Area Performance Summary                                                                              
Poilis – Geàrr-chunntas Dèanadais Sgìreil

There had been circulated Report No RC/1/18 dated 8 January 2018 by the North Area Commander for Police Scotland.

Arising from the report, the Chief Inspector noted that Police Scotland had previously offered a presentation for Members on public protection and that this could be provided to a future meeting, if required.

During discussion, Members raised a number of issues including the following:-

• a point as to whether the number of offences for not possessing a MOT had increased following changes to the notification system.  The Chief Inspector encouraged the public to use the free reminder service offered by the DVLA;
• concern was expressed that vulnerable people were particularly susceptible to online scams which could result in financial harm and debt;
• concern was also expressed that the whole community was vulnerable to online scams and therefore it would be helpful if Police Scotland’s online safety leaflet and advice to the public on this matter could be promoted and circulated as widely as possible;
• clarification was sought and provided in regard to Police Scotland’s input in terms of making recommendations to the roads authority for signage along the North Coast 500 route;
• it was disappointing to note there had been an increase in the number of speeding detections and drink/drug driving offences but it was encouraging that members of the public were reporting issues in the area;
• concern was also expressed at the increase in the number of thefts by housebreaking and shoplifting;
• a point in regard to the number of drivers being observed ignoring the no right hand turn at the traffic lights onto the High Street, Dingwall and also jumping the red lights in this location;
• the potential to replicate in Scotland a scheme operating elsewhere in the UK, whereby drivers caught speeding had the option to undertake training as an alternative to a fixed penalty;
• there was a need to continue to raise public awareness that driver behaviour such as speeding or using a mobile phone was not acceptable and could have serious or fatal consequences;
• it was requested that the Committee’s thanks be extended to Area Inspector David Ogilvie for his services to the area on the occasion of his forthcoming retirement;
• concern was expressed at a recurring problem in Alness with young people vandalising cars and complaints being received from local residents on this matter. The Chief Inspector reported on the provision of additional resources to the local policing team to undertake more patrols and other measures to deal with this anti-social behaviour.

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED, following scrutiny, the progress made against the objectives set within the Highland and Islands Local Policing Plan 2017-20 Year 1, attached as Annex A to the report, for the period covering 1 April - 30 November 2017.

6.  20mph Speed Limit Implementation                                                                                 
Buileachadh Casg Astair 20msu

There had been circulated Report No RC/2/18 dated 16 January 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

Arising from this item, concern was expressed at the poor condition of and lack of investment over a number of years in the roads infrastructure in Ward 5: Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh and the serious concerns of local communities and community councils on this matter, given the impact on tourism and the local economy.  In this regard, a local campaign was being initiated which sought to involve all community councils in the area, and the local MP and MSPs. It was acknowledged the local authority was operating under financial constraints but it was suggested there was a need as a priority for the Council, Scottish Government and UK Government to work together to improve the condition of the road network in the area.

During further discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

• concern was expressed at the level of resource to be invested over the next five years to support the introduction of 20mph limits at a time when the priority should be improving the condition of the road network;
• it was reported that the local Members fully supported the introduction of the speed limit in Dingwall on road safety grounds;
• it would be helpful if the introduction of 20mph limits could be robustly enforced by Police Scotland through more policing of those routes;
• the opportunity for a coordinated approach to reduce speed limits to 40mph on roads passing through some of the more rural communities located on the North Coast 500 route; and
• the proposals for Alness and consultation undertaken with local Members was welcomed and particularly the inclusion of some housing schemes which it was suggested would help to address problems with speeding in those areas.

The Committee:-

1. APPROVED the proposed Road Traffic Regulation Order for the following 20mph speed limits:

• Alness
• Dingwall
• Invergordon
• Tain

2. AGREED that Officers implement the scheme in the event there were no sustained objections; and
3. NOTED that a further report would only be brought back to Committee in the event of sustained (relevant) objections.

7.  Decriminalised Parking Enforcement 
Cur an Gnìomh Parcadh Dì-eucoirichte

There had been circulated Report No RC/3/18 dated 10 January 2018 by the Director of Community Services. 

During discussion, it was confirmed that in consultation outline proposals had been developed to deal with the specific issues at Dingwall Primary School and also a solution to address some of the local residents issues. The Principal Traffic Officer confirmed that following initial consultation with the School, a specific update on the proposals would be provided to Members, the Parent Council and local residents later in February 2018.

Thereafter, reference was made to the need to follow up on the initial yellow lining works undertaken previously in Tain and specifically to remove lines in areas where they were not required and to provide them in locations where they were considered necessary. In addition, reference was made to the fact the relevant signage had yet to be erected and disappointment was expressed that to date there had been no enforcement undertaken.

In response, the Principal Traffic Officer provided an assurance that the relevant contractor would be undertaking lining works in Tain early in the spring to resolve the issues which local Members had highlighted. In addition he would arrange for officers to issue formal warning notices in advance of the implementation of full parking enforcement.

During further discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

• confirmation was sought and provided that the potential to extend the existing yellow lines in Evanton in specific areas would be investigated in consultation with local Members;
• an assurance was sought and provided that officers were fully aware of the commitments provided in terms of the lining works to be undertaken in Gairloch;
• a point in regard to the action that could be taken to prevent the public parking in front of shops and businesses in Dingwall for lengthy periods in view of concerns this may impact on the viability of those businesses;
• an assurance was sought and provided by the Principal Traffic Officer that there would be no delay in progressing the TRO for Dingwall and this was considered as being in the top tier of priorities;
• a general point that the making of all the Traffic Regulation Orders in the Ross and Cromarty area should be considered a priority and progressed without delay; and
• confirmation was sought and provided that in response to the concerns expressed by local Members, the Principal Traffic Officer and colleagues would report back to Members in relation to a fit for purpose traffic management solution for Dingwall High Street.

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED the update on the rollout of Decriminalised Parking Enforcement to Ross and Cromarty.

8.  Transport Scotland
Còmhdhail Alba – Taisbeanadh

Mr M Bardelli, Area Manager, Transport Scotland and Mr S Urquhart, Traffic Safety Engineer, BEAR Scotland were present to provide information and to respond to any concerns raised by Members, particularly in relation to junctions under their responsibility within the Ross & Cromarty area.

In discussion, it was suggested there was a need for an investigation to be carried out in relation to the number and frequency of accidents at the Asda junction on the A9 to the south of Tain, and, albeit to a lesser extent, at the junction to the north of Tain near the Lidl store. It was also reported that signage on the Tain bypass which had fallen down was not being picked up timeously. There were also significant issues with surface water and associated debris on the Tain bypass in the Moss Road area and also at Morangie Cottages. It would be helpful therefore if feedback could be provided to local Members on the above issues.

The Area Manager undertook to follow up on these matters and explained that investigations had been ongoing in relation to both junctions at Tain and the Traffic Safety Engineer provided details of the initial analysis carried out to date. In addition, a study was also being undertaken in relation to the stretch of the A9 between the Nigg and Dornoch roundabouts.

Thereafter, it was suggested the A835 junction at Conon Bridge was also a major concern in terms of road safety, reference being made to the number of serious accidents and near misses at this location over the years. The main issue was that the filter lane was too short for the volume and speed of traffic in this location and also the road markings were not clear. The Area Manager advised that potential options were being considered for this junction albeit surveys had not identified speed as an issue and the number of serious accidents was considered low in terms of the prioritised list for action. On this basis his road safety colleagues were not persuaded that investment in a video survey could be justified given the significant costs involved, but that discussions on this matter were ongoing. He confirmed that works would be carried out to improve the road markings at the junction.

In discussion, it was also highlighted that Members had ongoing concerns in relation to the junction at Tomich on the A9 particularly with the increased volume of traffic using the North Coast 500 and potential development activity in the Invergordon area.  The extra signage provided at the junction had been useful but was not sufficient and it was suggested the filter lane was too short and the preferred option would be for a roundabout. It would therefore be helpful if further discussions could be held with local Members on this matter. The Traffic Safety Engineer advised that the number of serious accidents at the junction was considered low in terms of the criteria for the prioritised list for action and there were no current commitments in relation to the junction. Thereafter, reference was made to the potential to secure developer contributions in respect of this junction going forward.

 During further discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

• it would be helpful if Members were provided with details of a contact person for BEAR Scotland;
• concern at the capacity of the filter lane on the A9 at the southern entrance at the junction at Evanton with traffic finding it difficult to exit onto the A9. The Area Manager confirmed that he would feedback on the priority status of this junction;
• reference to specific drainage problems on the A835 both on the approach to Garve and near to the Garve Hotel and further details were provided in this regard. The Area Manager provided details of a drainage scheme to be undertaken within the village and advised that he would raise the other matter with BEAR Scotland;
• a request that clarification be provided on responsibility for the maintenance regime for the cycle path between Tore and Maryburgh;
• clarification was sought on responsibility for undertaking repairs to bollards at junctions. The Area Manager undertook to follow up on any specific concerns Members had on this matter; 
• clarification was also sought on any proposals to improve the Craigrory junction, in response to which it was noted there were no commitments in respect of this junction in the current financial year;
• there were also issues with traffic exiting the Artafalie junction and at other locations, particularly in the dark. The Area Manager explained it was not policy to light all junctions, the focus being on minimising street lighting in rural areas, and that all signs and road markings were reflectorised;
• a query in regard to the progress being made in securing developer contributions to undertake improvements to the Munlochy junction. The Area Manager and Traffic Safety Engineer advised there would be consultation with Members, letters circulated to all local residents and a press release issued on the improvement works to commence on 18 February 2018; and
• a point that Killearnan Community Council had complained that a sign at the Tore roundabout was impacting on visibility when exiting right from Tore Primary School.

The Chair thanked both representatives for attending meeting, and requested that they feedback to the local Members on the specific issues raised as detailed above.

The Committee NOTED the position.

9.  Education Scotland Reports 
Sgrùdaidhean le Foghlam Alba

Declaration of Interest - Mrs A Maclean declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds that a family member was the Head Teacher at Tore Primary School and took no part in the determination of this item.

There had been circulated Report No RC/4/18 dated 19 January 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

In discussion, Members welcomed the positive reports received in respect of Ardross and Tore Primary Schools

The Committee NOTED the content of the reports.

10.  Street Naming – Multiple Sites
Ainmeachadh Sràide - Leasachaidhean Ùra Taigheadais

Declaration of Interest - Ms P Munro declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds that the properties in Alness were to be named after her father in law and took no part in the determination of this item.

There had been circulated Report No RC/5/18 dated 6 January 2018 by the Head of Policy and Reform, Ward Management.

The Chair advised that in line with the recommendation of Muir of Ord Community Council, the new development was to be named Old School Court.

The Committee HOMOLOGATED the naming of the new development of:-

1. 10 flatted properties in Alness as Alastair Munro Court;
2. 10 flatted properties in Muir of Ord as Old School Court;
3. 54 housing properties in Muir of Ord as MacRae Park and Westfield Gardens; and
4. 20 housing properties in Munlochy as Belmaduthy Gardens.

11.  Ross and Cromarty Sports Council
Comhairle Spòrs Rois agus Chromba

Having been duly nominated and seconded, the Committee AGREED to appoint Ms I Campbell, Mr D Macleod and Mrs M Paterson to the Ross and Cromarty Sports Council.

12.  Common Good Funds
Maoin Maith Choitchinn

There had been circulated Joint Reports Nos RC/6/18 – RC/10/18 by the Depute Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Resources and the Head of Policy and Reform/Ward Management which provided information on the following Common Good Funds:-

1. Cromarty Common Good Fund RC/6/18
2. Dingwall Common Good Fund RC/7/18
3. Fortrose and Rosemarkie Common Good Fund RC/8/18
4. Invergordon Common Good Fund RC/9/18

Declarations of Interest – The Chair and Mr A Rhind declared a non-financial interest in item 12e and 13 on the grounds that they were the Secretary and a member of the Tain Initiative Group respectively and they both left the Chamber for the remainder of the meeting.

Thereafter, Mrs M Paterson proceeded to take the Chair for the remaining items.

5. Tain Common Good Fund RC/10/18

In discussion, it was confirmed that while the monitoring statement indicated a surplus of £86,950 by the end of the financial year, this included the receipt from the sale of the mussel boat (£119,879). It was explained the income from this sale would be shown next year separately under the Usable Revenue Reserves as agreed by Members. Excluding this income the anticipated out turn was a deficit of £32,929 which was a more accurate picture of the position.

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED the updated information provided in relation to each Fund and APPROVED the proposed Fund budgets for 2018/19 as shown in Appendix 2 of each report.

13.  Tain Common Good – Tain Initiative Group Funding Application
Math Coitcheann Bhaile Dhubhthaich – Iarrtas Maoin Buidhne Iomairt Bhaile Dhubhthaich

There had been circulated Joint Report No RC/11/18 dated 17 January 2018 by the Depute Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Resources and Head of Policy and Reform.

In discussion, it was highlighted that Tain Community Council in their comments on the application had asked for additional information in respect of the application to be provided in relation to how the funding would be utilised and specifically a business plan, funding targets and more information on how the project would link with other groups.

During further discussion, Members expressed the view that the application be deferred pending submission of the additional information requested to include a business plan, funding targets, more information about how the project will link with other groups and the most recent set of audited accounts.

The Committee AGREED to defer the application pending the submission of the additional information requested. 

The meeting ended at 12.55pm.