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 Thursday, 8 November 2018 at 10.30 am.

Present:

Mr R Balfour, Mrs J Barclay, Miss J Campbell, Dr I Cockburn, Mr C Fraser, Mr J Finlayson (substitute), Mr R Gale, Mr J Gray, Mr A Henderson, Mrs L MacDonald, Mr D MacKay (substitute), Mr W MacKay (by video conference), Ms A MacLean, Mr D MacLeod, Mr R MacWilliam, Mr H Morrison, Mr I Ramon, Mr D Rixson, Mrs T Robertson, Mr A Sinclair, Ms M Smith

Non-Members also present:

Mr A Baxter, Mr B Boyd, Mr R Bremner (by video-conference), Mrs H Carmichael, Mrs M Davidson, Ms E Knox (pm only), Mr B Lobban, Mr K Rosie (by video-conference), Mr B Thompson

In attendance:

Mr S Black, Director of Development and Infrastructure
Mr W Gilfillan, Director of Community Services
Mr D Yule, Depute Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Resources
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
Ms N Wallace, Acting Head of Planning and Environment, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr A Summers, Head of Environmental and Amenity Services, Community Services
Ms T Urry, Head of Roads and Transport, Community Services
Mr R Gerring, Transport Planning Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr S Graham, Project Manager, Chief Executive’s Service
Mr A McCann, Economy and Regeneration Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr M Mitchell, Finance Manager (Community Services/Development and Infrastructure), Corporate Resources
Mr P Mascarenhas, Community and Democratic Engagement Manager
Mr A Yates, Environmental Health Manager, Community Services
Ms F Daschofsky, LEADER Development Officer/EFF Development Officer, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr S Manning, Principal Transport Officer, Community Services
Mr K Masson, Climate Change Officer, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr D Summers, Principal Transport Officer, Community Services
Mr M Smith, Principal Engineer and Team Leader - Flood Team
Miss J Maclennan, Principal Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Ms F MacBain, Committee Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr S Taylor, Administrative Assistant, Chief Executive’s Office

Also in attendance:

Mr W Beattie, EB Scotland Limited (Item 4 only)

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

1. Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Ms K Currie, Mr M Finlayson, Mr J Gordon, Mr R Laird and Mr C Smith.

2. Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 5 – Miss J Campbell and Mr R MacWilliam (both non-financial)
Item 6 – Mr D Rixson (non-financial)
Item 8 – Miss J Campbell and Mr R MacWilliam (both non-financial)
Item 9 – Mr R MacWilliam and Mr D Rixson (both non-financial)
Item 13 – Mrs H Carmichael (non-financial)
Item 32 – Mr D Rixson (non-financial)

3. Good News
Naidheachdan Matha

The Committee NOTED the items of Good News.

4. Presentation - Landfill Tax Fund
Taisbeanadh – Maoin Cìse Làraich Sgudail

A presentation was given by Mr William Beatie of EB Scotland Limited on the Scottish Landfill Community Fund, during which he advised that the Scottish Landfill Community Fund was a tax credit scheme that allowed landfill operators to contribute a portion of their annual landfill tax liability towards the Fund and that it aimed to benefit communities which had faced dis-amenity from waste management activities.  He confirmed that since the scheme had started, all monies contributed by the Council to the Fund had been spent in the Highland area and an explanation was provided as to the process for accessing funds and the criteria to be considered when applying.  He also gave some examples of projects within Highland which had benefited from funding.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• in relation to the Seater Landfill Site, concern had been raised by Caithness West Community Council that they had been unsuccessful in their application for funding and that they had not received any benefit from the Fund.  In response, it was suggested that the Community Council’s concerns be forwarded to the Chair so their application could be further investigated;
• a request was made that contact details for Mr Beattie be provided to all Members;
• further information was sought, and received, regarding the eligibility criteria for projects, during which it was emphasised that currently projects had be located within 10 miles of a registered landfill site or transfer station.  However, it was suggested that Members could try to seek a review of the eligibility criteria;
• it was suggested that greater publicity of the Fund should be made to raise its profile among local community groups and to help encourage more applications for funding; and
• whilst welcoming the funding opportunities available to local community groups from the Fund, it was emphasised that the Council was still seeking to reduce the amount of waste it currently sent to landfill.

The Chair having thanked Mr Beattie for his presentation, the Committee:-

1. NOTED the presentation;
2. AGREED that contact details for Mr Beattie, EB Scotland Limited, be provided to all Members; and
3. AGREED that a list of current waste landfill sites, closed waste landfill sites and transfer stations be E-mailed to all Members.

5. Development and Infrastructure Service Revenue Monitoring
Sgrùdadh Teachd-a-steach Seirbheis an Leasachaidh agus a’ Bhun-structair

Declarations of Interest – Miss J Campbell and Mr R MacWilliam, as Members of Inverness City Heritage Trust and the Academy Townscape Heritage Project, declared non-financial interests in respect of this item but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interests did not preclude them from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/66/18 dated 29 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• concern was expressed that the shortfall in income in relation to energy and sustainability and catering, cleaning and facilities management would need to be funded from underspends elsewhere in the budget.  A reliance on underspends could impact on work being undertaken at Ward level;
• concern was expressed regarding the deletion of vacant posts and vacancy management as a savings target going forward; and
• in welcoming an increase in income in relation to planning and building standards fees, it was suggested that this should be reinvested in the service budget.

The Committee APPROVED the revenue monitoring position for the period 1 April to 30 September 2018 and the actions which had been put in place to manage the budget over the remainder of the financial year.

6. Capital Expenditure Monitoring Report
Aithisg Sgrùdaidh Caiteachais Chalpa

Declaration of Interest – Mr D Rixson, as a Board Member of Lochaber Housing Association, declared a non-financial interest in respect of this item 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/67/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• further information was sought, and received, regarding the installation of replacement cremators at Inverness Crematorium and that spend for the year was on their retention;
• disappointment was expressed that only three projects in Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh (Ward 5) were contained within the capital programme;
• concern was expressed that an additional budget allocation of £0.9m had been made towards the new build of Alness Academy and further information was sought, and received, regarding how the money would be allocated within the project budget;
• further information was sought, and received, regarding the additional £1.5m which had been allocated to roads structural works following an underspend elsewhere in the Capital budget;
• concern was expressed at the significant economic impact of road traffic delays occurring as a result of the road/rail diversion in connection with works undertaken to the rock face at Stromeferry and a request was made that a report be brought back providing an explanation as to why the option of undertaking works to the rock face during night-time  had not be pursued when a tender had been submitted which would have allowed the road to remain open;
• in highlighting the suggestion that Transport Scotland take over the 50 mile stretch of road from Garve to Kyle of Lochalsh, this was unlikely to happen due to the poor condition of the road and the money required to bring it up to trunk road standards;
• it was suggested that the Council should seek to annul its current agreement with Network Rail regarding the maintenance of the rock face at Stromeferry.  The condition and upkeep of the rock face was a responsibility that both organisations should share;
• it was suggested that the Committee should recommend the release of money by the Council to push forward the design works required for the new Stromeferry bypass road option as a matter of urgency;
• a request was made for information to be provided as part of the STAG appraisal as to the number of times the Stromeferry bypass had been closed due to repairs to the rock face since 1970;
• in response to a suggestion that money could be made available from the additional income of £14.1m generated from an increase in Council Tax towards the design works required for the new Stromeferry bypass road operation, it was clarified that this money had already been used within the revenue budget to offset savings which were required by the Council in order for it to continue to deliver services;
• in thanking officers and staff for their work in relation to the Stromeferry Bypass, and also Ward 5 Members for their input, the Leader of the Council advised that herself and the Chair would be attending a meeting later in the month with the Scottish Government Transport Secretary, Michael Matheson MSP, to discuss the options for the bypass going forward and that the outcome of the meeting would be reported back;
• the economic cost of road closures in the West Highlands was substantially higher than in other areas of Scotland and it was requested that the Transport Secretary be asked if the Scottish Government could evidence how it had calculated the economic cost of road closures;
• it was emphasised that the Council was responsible for the upkeep of a high number of local roads and opportunities for funding should continue to be sought in partnership with the Scottish Government;
• the replacement Muir of Ord Railway Bridge had made a significant positive impact in the community and the time and money spent on completing the project was emphasised, and the team congratulated;
• the Council’s capital discretionary budget for the upkeep of war memorials was highlighted and the work undertaken by officers in preparation for Armistice Day was commended;
• the progress of onsite works in relation to White Bridge was welcomed;
• it was highlighted that the Council, as the owner of a number of old bridges which were in serious need of upgrading, should investigate opportunities to seek funding from the Scottish Government;
• further information was sought, and received, regarding the commencement of flood prevention schemes on the River Thurso and at Halkirk;
• it was suggested that the case be made to Scottish Government that the A890 become a trunk road as part of the longer term solution; and
• a request was made that the steering group which had been established in connection with the Uig Ferry Terminal upgrade engage further with the local community.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

1. APPROVED the capital expenditure monitoring position for the period 1 April to 30 September 2018
2. AGREED to HOMOLOGATE an additional allocation of £0.9m to Alness Academy project from the School Estate Improvement Programme; and
3. AGREED to look at the release of monies to push forward the design works required for the new Stromferry Bypass option.

7. Planning Performance Framework and Quarter 2 Performance Review
Frèam Coileanadh Dealbhaidh agus Ath-sgrùdadh Coileanaidh Cairteal 2

There had been circulated Report No. EDI/68/18 dated 31 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• further information was sought as to the number of planning applications which had not been determined within the intended timeframe and whether there were any capacity issues in relation to this;
• further information was sought, and received, regarding the possibility of utilising Modern Apprentices to ensure the service’s responsibilities under the Construction Compliance Notification Plans (CCNP) would be met;
• in highlighting the public consultation exercise carried out in Fort William under the FW2040 banner to create a new vision for the town and a delivery programme, it was suggested that there was potential to undertake a similar exercise in Dingwall to help promote businesses and improve communications;
• it was suggested that feedback be sought from users of the Council’s website and customers using the Idox system as to any issues they had experienced when searching for planning applications online;
• the potential expansion of the Environment team on a cost-recovery basis to meet the high demand for ecological advice was welcomed;
• in highlighting that 15 out of the 100 cases identified in relation to enforcement activity had been served with notices, it was requested that further information be provided within future reports on breaches which had been identified but had not be served with notices; and
• the significant improvement in performance in relation to responses to warrant applications was commended.

Thereafter, the Committee:-.

1. NOTED the performance updates for the Development Management, Building Standards, Development Plans, Transport Planning, Performance and Environment teams;
2. AGREED that further information be sought as to the number of planning applications which had not been determined within the intended timeframe and whether there were any capacity issues in relation to this;
3. AGREED that feedback be sought from users of the Council’s website and customers using the Idox system as to any issues they had experienced when searching for planning applications online; and
4. AGREED that further information be provided within future reports on enforcement activity, in particular, breaches identified which had not be served with notices.

8. Economy and Regeneration
Eaconamaidh agus Ath-ùrachadh

Declarations of Interest – Miss J Campbell and Mr R MacWilliam, as Members of Inverness City Heritage Trust and the Academy Townscape Heritage Project, declared non-financial interests in respect of this item but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interests did not preclude them from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No EDI/69/18 dated 26 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• the work of Business Gateway in providing advice to small businesses in rural areas and its importance to the local economy was emphasised;
• it was suggested that the Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Energy and Fair Work Committee’s visit to Inverness on 3 December 2018 should be promoted;
• in highlighting the transfer of the Council’s Family Firm function to Development and Infrastructure, the importance of ensuring that young people continued to be provided with opportunities to get into education and employment was emphasised;
• it was suggested that if businesses were willing to share details of the advice and services which they had received from Business Gateway then this information could be used to help promote Business Gateway to other businesses in the area;
• in highlighting the recent difficulties experienced by the Cairngorm Mountain resort, the work undertaken by Business Gateway with local businesses in Badenoch and Strathspey was commended;
• in highlighting the seven projects within the Highlands which had successfully secured half of the total grant funding available from the Scottish Government’s Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF), reassurance was sought, and received, that the Council had encouraged as many communities as possible to apply to the next round of funding;
• it was highlighted that expressions of interest within the Highlands alone for the next round of the RTIF had already exceeding the total amount of funding that would be available; and
• further information was sought, and received, regarding the availability of  European Regional Development funding (ERDF) and the work being undertaken to identify projects eligible for funding.

The Committee NOTED:-

1. the report and the key developments highlighted during quarter 1 and emerging activity; and
2. the transfer of the Family Firm function to the Development and Infrastructure Service.

9. Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2019/2021
Plana Tasgaidh Taigheadais Ro-innleachdail 2019/2021                

Declarations of Interest – Mr R MacWilliam and Mr D Rixson, as a Director of Highland Small Communities Housing and as a Board Member of Lochaber Housing Association respectively, declared non-financial interests in respect of this item but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interests did not preclude them from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No EDI/70/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• in welcoming the report, it was emphasised that the Strategic Housing Investment Plan could help to deal with growing housing demand and the number of people currently on housing waiting lists, in particular within Nairn;
• further information was sought, and received, as to how the Plan would take into consideration skills shortages within the construction industry and whether firms could be encouraged to take on apprentices to address the shortage;
• it was emphasised that discussion with public sector organisations, including NHS Highland, should take place to ensure that their needs would be reflected within the Plan;
• whilst acknowledging that the main emphasis in relation to social housing was on the number of people currently registered on housing waiting lists, it was emphasised that quality of design and build should also be taken into consideration;
• the recently completed housing development at Raining Stairs was highlighted as an example of well-designed housing.  It had also been shortlisted in three categories of the Inside Housing Design Awards;
• it was emphasised that future developments in Fort William, including the expansion of the Aluminium Smelter, Corpach Marina, Fort William 2040, the new hospital and the UHI Stem-centre, would create additional pressures on housing demand in the area;
• further information was sought, and received, regarding the types of houses being built to meet the specific needs of disabled households;
• further information was sought, and received, regarding the roll-out of Fit Houses in Highland and the variations which had been made to the original designs of the houses following the initial 6 month living in period;
• with the introduction of Fit Houses, there was potential for some people currently in hospital to be transferred into a Fit House;
• Dingwall was the highest priority area in the Easter Ross area in terms of housing demand and attention was drawn to rising house prices within the area;
• it was suggested that in places such as Skye, which had only one major building developer, consideration be made at an early stage towards the provision of accommodation for contractors from outwith the area and the potential use of new builds being used for accommodation prior to being released onto the open market;
• in highlighting a number of housing projects in Lochaber, which had either been completed or were due to commence construction, the work of the Head of Development and Regeneration and his team in the area was commended;
• in highlighting the current standards of housing being built in the Highlands, it was suggested that further emphasis should be made in the report on the extent to which the Council could eliminate fuel poverty;
• in highlighting the Council’s ambition towards achieving a minimum Silver Level as per the 2011 Building Regulations in respect of both carbon dioxide emission and energy for space heating, further information was sought, and received, regarding the potential of increasing this target towards Gold Level;
• greater quality assurance was required on some housing developments as some building companies did not have a third party independent sign-off on new builds; and
• whilst there was a perception that an increase in housing construction costs could be attributed to an improvement in house building standards, it was considered that any impact on cost from increased building standards would be in relation to the value of the land.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

1. APPROVED the Strategic Housing Investment Plan as submitted to the Scottish Government in draft form, as included within Appendix 1 of the report; and
2. NOTED the planned investment programme as included within Appendix 2 of the report.

10. Annual Report under Public Bodies Climate Change Duties 2017/18
Aithisg Bhliadhnail fo Dhleastanasan Atharrachadh Gnàth-shìde Bhuidhnean Poblach 2017/18

There had been circulated Report No EDI/71/18 dated 18 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, the following issues were considered:-

• information was sought, and received, on the increased usage of electricity by the Council despite the introduction of LED streetlights which had been expected to lead to decreased expenditure. Reasons included increased housing, centralisation of school energy budgets leading to less ownership of expenditure, and the need for greater emphasis on individual responsibility for reducing energy consumption;
• consideration should be given to the Council moving to a renewable-only supplier in future;
• both cost and carbon reduction were important issues and the Council’s ability to produce the most carbon-free energy in Scotland ought to bring more benefits than was currently the case; and
• cross-party support for the recommendations was urged.

The Committee AGREED that the Council’s completed submission for the 2017/18 reporting year is submitted to the Sustainable Scotland Network in compliance with statutory climate change duties.

11. Single Use Plastic Strategy and Action Plan
Ro-innleachd air Plastaig Aon Chleachdadh

There had been circulated Report No EDI/72/18 dated 22 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion the following issues were considered:-

• the Council was congratulated for being one of the first public organisations to adopt a single-use plastic strategy and it was hoped the issue would soon be considered by the Community Planning Partnership;
• discussions had taken place with Scottish Water about the possibility of water bottle filling stations being installed in schools;
• it was suggested that the opportunity be provided for Members to act as ECO Councillors;
• A DVD, Clean Sea, was suggested for educational use for Members and for schools;
• the annual updating of the strategy was welcomed and it would tie into regional, national and international initiatives;
• under the key themes section of the report, reference could be made to the supplier agreement to voluntarily commit to reducing food packaging waste and this could be referenced at other relevant sections of the report;
• reference was made to the welcomed policy of a café in Fort William which offered free water bottle refilling;
• the dangers of micro plastics for marine life was highlighted;
• progress made to date was welcomed but it was important to maintain momentum on the various initiatives including encouraging public ownership and responsibility, to continue to effect strategic change but also to encourage individual behaviour change;
• the Council had made important operational changes e.g. banning the use of single use cups; and
• waste plans should be considered as part of the planning permission process for new businesses, especially take-away restaurants with high levels of disposable items.

The Committee:-

i. APPROVED the adoption of the Single Use Plastic Strategy and Action Plan; and

ii. AGREED that the opportunity be provided for Members to act as ECO Councillors.

12. Highland Forest and Woodland Strategy
Ro-innleachd Mòr-Choille agus Coille na Gàidhealtachd

There had been circulated Report No EDI/73/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion the following issues were considered:-

• information in the report on ancient woodlands was welcomed and a broadleaf section was suggested;
•  information was sought, and received, on the possible inclusion of deer stalking and grouse moor regeneration in the report;
• it was suggested that the move away from deer fencing could be detrimental to forestry;
• information was sought on the level of interest in creating affordable housing in a woodland setting; and
• the wild growth of trees was spoiling the views on some key tourist routes.

The Committee AGREED:-

1. the Council responses as set out in Appendix 1 of the report; and
2. to adopt the Highland Forest and Woodland Strategy (at Appendix 2 of the report) as part of the Development Plan, subject to any non-factual amendments or formatting changes, and clearance by Scottish Ministers.

13. Visit Inverness Loch Ness Tourism Business Improvement District
Sgìre Leasachadh Gnothachais Loch Nis Visit Inbhir Nis         

Declaration of Interest – Mrs H Carmichael declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Director of the Board of Inverness BID and  the Inverness & Loch Ness Tourism BID 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/74/18 dated 13 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, information was sought, and received, on the possible involvement of organisations which operated in the district but were not based in it e.g. cruise companies.

The Committee:-

1. APPROVED the assessment made in Appendix 1 of the report relative to the Visit Inverness Loch Ness Tourism Business Improvement District draft final Proposal and AGREED not to exercise the Council’s right of veto; and
2. if, upon receipt of the final BID Business Plan, it was considered that changes have been made which affect the assessment made in Appendix 1 of the report, AGREED to delegate authority to the Director of Development and Infrastructure in consultation with the Chair of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee to seek the necessary amendments to the final BID proposal, failing which, a further report would be brought to Council on 13 December 2018.

14. A9 Dualling: Draft Orders Dalraddy to Slochd and Crubenmore to Kincraig
Dreachd Òrdughan Dùblachadh an A9   

There had been circulated Report No EDI/75/18 dated 25 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, the dualling proposals were welcomed but concern was expressed at the gap in provision of a non-motorised route between Carrbridge and Aviemore.  An objection to this had been supported by the Local Area Committee and it was hoped the Council would continue to support this stance.  Cllr M Cockburn pointed out that she had not been in attendance at the Ward 20 Business Meeting briefing on 1 October 2018 at which the objection to the absence of non-motorised users (NMU) infrastructure between Aviemore and Carrbridge had been initially discussed.  However she had been at meetings where support for the objection had been further considered.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the contents of this report, in particular the need to enter new side roads in the list of public roads;
2. AGREED to HOMOLOGATE the responses submitted to Transport Scotland and provide any comments or additions;
3. NOTED the update about the matters discussed at the two meetings with Transport Scotland and additional clarification received subsequent to the preparation of this report; and
4. having considered the response already submitted to Transport Scotland based on the new information that has been received from Transport Scotland, AGREED to sustain an objection to the Draft Orders.

15. Section 37 Interim Report on Flood Risk Management Plan Actions
Aithisg Eadar-amail Earrainn 37 mu Ghnìomhan Plana Rianachd a thaobh Cunnart Thuiltean

There had been circulated Report No EDI/76/18 dated 20 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the contents of the Section 37 Report and progress made on the measures within the current Highland and Argyll Local Flood Risk Management Plan;
2. AGREED to make the Section 37 Report for the Highland and Argyll Local Plan District available to the public on the Council’s website; and
3. NOTED that Moray Council will approve and publish the Section 37 Interim Report for the Findhorn, Nairn and Speyside Local Plan District.

16. Community Asset Transfer - Review
Gluasad So-mhaoin Choimhearsnachd – Ath-sgrùdadh

There had been circulated Report No EDI/77/18 dated 24 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, the following issues were considered:-

• all relevant requests for asset transfer should be considered by the Asset Management Board to check the Council did not miss potential opportunities. The evaluation process was explained and the membership of the Board would be checked to ensure it remained fit for purpose;
• it was hoped the speed of the process could be improved as the perception that the process was lengthy could be a deterrent to applicants;
• it might be inappropriate for the same people to be on the initial panel and on the review panel; and
• it was important all transfers were appropriate and to the benefit of all.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the work undertaken and the work underway way to address the issues raised through the review;
2. AGREED both community asset transfer requests recommended for approval, and those recommended for refusal are considered by Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee; and
3. AGREED the proposal to increase the Members’ Review Panel membership from 5 Members to 9 Members.

17. Nevis Landscape Partnership
Com-pàirteachas Cruth-tìre Nibheis

Following reports to the former Planning Development & Infrastructure Committee meetings on 5 November 2014, 4 November 2015 and 17 February 2016, the Council provided a Guarantee to the Clydesdale Bank (the ‘Bank’) for a maximum sum of £150,000 to underwrite an overdraft facility made available to the Nevis Partnership by the Bank.

The overdraft facility was required by Nevis Partnership to undertake a programme of works (along with Partner organisations) called the Nevis Landscape Partnership.

The Council had been notified by Nevis Partnership that they were in the process of cancelling their overdraft facility with the Bank and, when the cancellation of the overdraft had been completed by Nevis Partnership, the Council’s Guarantee to the Bank would no longer required and could also be cancelled.

The Committee AGREED to formally cancel the Council Guarantee and formally close the legal guarantee documentation between the Council and the Bank (after the cancellation of the overdraft facility has been completed).

18. Community Services Revenue Budget Monitoring
Sgrùdadh Buidseat Teachd-a-steach nan Seirbheisean Coimhearsnachd

There had been circulated Report No EDI/78/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

The Director highlighted various aspects of the report including the projected overspend of £493k and the work that was ongoing to try to reduce this including vacancy management, ceasing all non-essential expenditure and continued implementation of the recovery programme.

During discussion, Members considered the following issues:-

• the severity of the coming winter could impact significantly on the budget;
• concern was expressed about unachieved savings in various areas including car parking and public conveniences.  Attention was drawn to the inequity that arose when one area of Highland put in place the necessary work to achieve a savings target but were inadvertently penalised because less progress was achieved elsewhere;
• information was sought on the percentage of car parking income that would be returned to community funds.  However it was explained that the Council had not yet taken that decision; and
• in response to a suggestion that at a previous meeting it had been thought that car parking income targets might take four years to achieve, this target had related to Decriminalised Parking Enforcement.

The Committee APPROVED the revenue budget monitoring position for the period from 1 April to 30 September 2018.

19. Community Services Performance Report – 1 April 2018 to 30 September 2018
Aithisg Choileanaidh nan Seirbheisean Coimhearsnachd – 1 April 2018 gu 30 September 2018

There had been circulated Report No EDI/79/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion concern was expressed that the Annual Household Waste to Landfill percentage had increased since the previous year, and recycling tonnage had decreased. A public education campaign was urged, including the possibility of putting stickers on recycling bins to indicate what should go into them and to encourage the use of recycling bins by new tenants of Council properties. Population growth had increased overall waste production and the implementation of garden waste charges had led to a degree in demand for its collection and recycling. These issues would be addressed in the new waste strategy.

The Committee NOTED the information provided on Community Services performance from 1 April to 30 September 2018 and AGREED consideration be given to putting stickers on recycling bins to indicate what should go into them and to encourage the use  of recycling bins by new tenants of Council properties.

20. Corran Ferry Options Appraisal – Presentation
Measadh Roghainnean Aiseag a’ Chorrain – Taisbeanadh

There had been circulated Report No EDI/80/18 dated 16 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

A presentation was provided by the Consultants commissioned by Highland Council to undertake an appraisal of future operations for the Corran Ferry service, to review all aspects of infrastructure and operation and the options as to how, and at what level, the service could be put on a sustainable footing.  Whilst acknowledging the community aspiration for a fixed link across the Corran Narrows, this was a long term proposition and did not remove the more immediate need to make the ferry service viable.  An analysis had been made of all factors including infrastructure, crew, operations and methods of delivery.  Three options had been developed against Transport Planning Objectives (TPO) and Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG) criteria:-

Option 1a - a new larger quarter point vessel, with MV Corran retained as the refit/relief/second vessel

Option 2c – a larger straight though vessel, with MV Corran retained as the refit/relief/second vessel

Option 2d – larger straight through vessel, with refit/relief/second vessel secured from elsewhere.

All three options addressed the infrastructure and service problems and therefore the determining factor was the method of service delivery.  Bearing in mind that the current model was unsustainable, Members were asked to consider the degree of control they wanted to maintain, the extent to which they wished to retain liability for the service and if they wanted the private sector to be involved.

During discussion, the following issues were considered:-

• the report was welcomed and the essential lifeline nature of the service was emphasised, with examples provided of the impact on the local community during periods of loss of service;
• if Road Equivalent Tariff (RET) was applied to the service, there would be an increase in fares and, given the lifeline nature of the service, support was sought from all for a variation from RET guidelines in this case;
• in the longer term, options other than a ferry service should be considered and information was sought, and received, on the Scottish Government’s Strategic Transport Project which would examine national capital investment projects for the coming 20 years, including fixed link proposals;
• reference was made to the poor quality of many of the roads and routes on the peninsula served by the ferry; and
• reference was made to the importance of the appointment of a project manager.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the strategic business case options presented in the Corran Ferry Service Options Appraisal;
2. APPROVED the appointment of a Project Manager to undertake further exploration of options, in more detail in order to develop a preferred outline business case, including essential consultation with Members and appropriate stakeholders;
3. AGREED to hold discussion with Transport Scotland in order to explore options in more detail; and
4. AGREED that the Governance arrangements for the project will be through the Harbours Board.

21. Road Structures – Annual Report
Structaran Rathaid – Aithisg Bhliadhnail              

There had been circulated Report No EDI/81/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion, it was pointed out that ‘steady state’ was a useful term to help understand the situation with regard to the condition of the road network.  In relation to this, it was explained that approximately £3m would be required to maintain Highland bridges in a ‘steady state’ but that only £530k was available for this. A risk based inspection regime was used to allocation funds and some mitigation might require to be put in place e.g. weight restrictions.

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; and
3. APPROVED the 2 year rolling programme for 2019-21 for the “Bridges, Retaining Walls and Culverts” allocation of the Community Services Capital Programme.

22. Progress Update on Implementation of the Council’s preferred option for managing its Biodegradable Municipal Waste
Cunntas às Ùr mu Adhartas le bhith a’ Buileachadh na roghainn as fheàrr leis a’ Chomhairle airson rian a chumail air a Sgudal Bailteil Bith-chnàmhach

There had been circulated Report No EDI/82/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• it was vitally important that the design and visual impact of the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) was taken into account given its location on a main entrance to Inverness.  If a high quality approach was adopted it had potential to add to the vista of this area;         
• it was encouraging that the drop-in consultation session had been well attended and information was sought regarding the response to the online survey.  Public involvement with this project was essential;
• the approach of the communication strategy was commended but could be enhanced with case studies;
• it was suggested that contact be made with the planners of the Fort William 2040 project so that the principles of “Prevent/Re-use/Recycle /Recover/Value” could be incorporated; and
• assurances were sought, and received, that the proposal put forward was for a MRF and not as a means of also achieving an Energy from Waste plant, although this could be something which had potential at some stage in the future.  It was important that this was seen as being independent from that, otherwise there was a danger that the proposal could lose support at an early stage.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the progress made in delivering a Materials Recovery Facility at the former Longman Landfill Site; and
2. APPROVED the Waste Communications Strategy detailed in Appendix 1.

23. Environmental Health Operational Plan 2018/19
Plana Obrachail Slàinte Àrainneachd 2018/19

There had been circulated Report No EDI/83/18 dated 8 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

Following a presentation highlighting specific elements of work carried out by the Environmental Health team, particularly referring to food safety and the multi-agency operational approach adopted, Members commended the Trade Waste Project which had taken place in Inverness Town Centre.  This had greatly reduced the number of bins and was an excellent example of working with businesses and communities.  In addition, it was queried if additional sound equipment could be purchased to assist with the number of Noise Control cases.  However, it was explained the necessary equipment was particularly expensive but the Team were looking at other approaches to deal with this issue.

Having expressed their appreciation to the Team, the Committee APPROVED the Environmental Health Operational Plan 2018/19 as detailed in Appendix 1.

24. Consultation – Licensing of Dog, Cat and Rabbit Breeding Activities in Scotland
Co-chomhairle – Ceadachd Briodaidh airson Chon, Chat is Choineanach ann an Alba

There had been circulated Report No EDI/84/18 dated 8 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

The Committee APPROVED the Council’s response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on licensing of dog, cat and rabbit breeding activities in Scotland as detailed in Appendix 1 of the report.

25. Electric Vehicles Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Charbadan Dealain

There had been circulated Report No EDI/85/18 dated 29 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

The introduction of usage charges simply to balance the cost of the electricity provided was, it was argued, a disincentive for commercial providers to enter into the market and therefore a more commercial levy should be considered.

The Committee:-

1. NOTED the progress in delivery of charging infrastructure made to date and the programme for future delivery in 2018/19 and 2019/20;
2. NOTED that the Council has been delayed by Transport Scotland in the previously agreed intention to introduce charges for consumption of electricity, and that usage charges can and will be introduced from January 2019;
3. NOTED that fixed term funding has been secured to manage the delivery of a commercial rate charging infrastructure and promotion;
4. AGREED that Transport Scotland should include grant funding for project management in the annual grant offers; and
5. NOTED that Highland Council is developing a planning policy for the provision of charging infrastructure in new development.

26. Community Transport Grants
Tabhartasan Còmhdhail Coimhearsnachd

There had been circulated Report No EDI/86/18 dated 19 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

The Committee:-

1. APPROVED a continuation of funding to Community Transport organisations for 2019/20 within the existing budget, and in line with discussions held with each individual group; and
2. NOTED that a future report will be presented once criteria for longer-term awards of grant have been prepared, in line with the Council’s Redesign recommendations.

27. Minutes
Geàrr-chunntas

The Committee:-

NOTED the Minutes of the Planning Applications Committees (PAC), for:-

1. North PAC – 1 August 2018;
2. South PAC – 8 August 2018;
3. North PAC – 11 September 2018;and
4. North PAC – 18 September 2018;

APPROVED the Minutes for:-

1. Tourism Working Group of 14 August 2018 and 26 September 2018;
2. Waste Strategy Working Group of 19 September 2018; and
3. BREXIT Working Group of 28 September 2018.

28. 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.

29. Property & Facilities Management Team Proposed Restructure
Ath-structaradh ga Mholadh airson Sgioba Stiùiridh Cuid-seilbh & Ghoireasan

There had been circulated to Members only Report No. EDI/87/18 dated 19 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee NOTED that this item had been deferred pending further consultation with the Trade Unions.

30. Land and Property
Fearann is Cuid-seilbhe

There had been circulated to Members only Report No. EDI/88/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee APPROVED the recommendations contained within the report.

31. Property Transactions Monitoring Report
Aithisg Sgrùdaidh Ghnothachasan Seilbhe

There had been circulated to Members only Report No. EDI/89/18 dated 23 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Committee NOTED the monitoring statements for General Fund and Property Account transactions as approved by the Head of Development and Regeneration under delegated authority as well the Budgeted Sales for 2018/19 and beyond.

32. Housing Development Initiatives
Iomairtean Leasachadh Taigheadais

Declaration of Interest – Mr D Rixson, as a Board Member of Lochaber Housing Association, declared a non-financial interest in respect of this item 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 to Members only Report No. EDI/90/18 dated 30 October 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

Having expressed appreciation to officers for their innovative approach to maximise resources, the Committee otherwise APPROVED the recommendations contained within the report.

The meeting ended at 4.50 pm.