Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the City of Inverness Area Committee held in the Council Chamber, Town House, Inverness on Thursday 20 February 2020 at 10.00 am.

Present:
    
Mr R Balfour, Mr B Boyd, Mr I Brown, Mrs C Caddick, Miss J Campbell, Mrs H Carmichael, Mr A Christie, Mr G Cruickshank, Mrs M Davidson, Mr K Gowans, Mr A Graham, Mr J Gray, Mr A Jarvie, Mrs I MacKenzie, Mr D Macpherson, Mr R MacWilliam, Mrs B McAllister, Mrs T Robertson, Ms E Roddick, Mr G Ross, Mr C Smith

Officials in Attendance:

Ms L Denovan, Executive Chief Officer - Resources & Finance
Mr M MacLeod, Executive Chief Officer - Infrastructure & Environment
Ms T Urry, Head of Roads and Transport, Community Services
Mr J Kelman, Principal Project Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Ms F McInally, ICATN Programme Manager, Development and Infrastructure Service
Mr J Taylor, Road Operations Manager (Inverness)
Mr R MacLeod, Housing Manager (Inverness)
Mr D Haas, Inverness City Area Manager
Miss J MacLennan, Democratic Services Manager, Chief Executive’s Office
Miss M Murray, Committee Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office

Also in attendance:

Ms F Hampton, Director of the Inverness Castle Project, High Life Highland
Mr S MacKellar, LDN Architects
Mr P Strachan, Chair, Inverness BID
Chief Inspector M MacInnes, Area Commander (Inverness), Police Scotland

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

Mrs H Carmichael in the Chair

Business

1. Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mrs G Campbell-Sinclair and Ms E Knox.

2. Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 4 – Mr K Gowans (non-financial)
Item 13 – Mr A Jarvie (non-financial)

3. New Year’s Honours
Urraman na Bliadhna Ùire

Members were informed that the following individual had been recognised in the New Year’s Honours List: -

Robert Melville Fowler, Counter Terrorism Strategy Liaison Officer, Highlands and Islands, Police Scotland, had received an MBE for services to Law and Order.

In addition, the Provost provided an update on the Winter Payments Scheme, explaining that, as of today, the total paid was £128,604.  There had been 1531 successful applicants and, with applications being received daily, it was anticipated that in the region of 1600 awards would have been made by the closing date on 29 February 2020.  This was an increase on last year’s total of 1517, and a success story for the Committee.

The Committee NOTED the position.

4. The Spirit of the Highlands / Inverness Castle Project – Update    
Pròiseact Spiorad na Gàidhealtachd / Caisteal Inbhir Nis – cunntas às ùr 

Declaration of Interest: Mr K Gowans declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds that his wife was an employee of High Life Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

Members of the Inverness Castle Project Team provided an update on the transfer of ownership of the South Tower to the Council and progress in the programme to transform the Castle from serving as the Sheriff Court court to a visitor attraction.  

Specific updates were also provided on plans to maximise on the energy efficiency of the new attraction, the proposals to landscape the esplanade, and the programme for the Doors Open Weekend in May.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• clarification was sought in terms of the condition of the building and the possible need for any future repairs following which it was confirmed that the purchase price had now been agreed and there were no expectations of any issues in this regard;
• there was a need to consider the wider context of energy efficiency arrangements in older buildings and specifically how energy conservation could be merged with building conservation in future;
• in welcoming the positive progress with this flagship project for the Highlands, it was suggested that increased capital costs should mean reduced revenue costs in future. In this respect, it was confirmed that there would be a focus on offsetting capital costs against the longer term benefits in relation to revenue costs as part of the future feasibility study;
• it would be essential to make this project an exemplar of low carbon and a real opportunity now existed to share the findings elsewhere in future in terms of best practice;
• detailed consideration had to be given as to how best to use the extensive landscaped areas around the Castle and this had to include a focus on introduction of native plants wherever possible in order to reflect the historical importance of the Castle and ensure that the project was both powerful and welcoming, highlighting the stories that affected its history through the ages;
• the potential use of ‘Wrap’, as had been used during the work to the frontage of the Town House, should be considered;
• it would be beneficial to involve interested groups and the general public where possible and to encourage them to submit ideas and proposals for consideration;
• the unique opportunity in respect of archaeology and specifically the work which would be undertaken around ground investigations was particularly important and should be widely publicised;
• there would need to be a detailed focus on plans for the stairs linking Bank Road and Castle Hill as part of the future access strategy; and
• it was suggested that consideration should be given to the involvement of the National Trust for Scotland and local interest groups as this could perhaps provide valuable insight and contributions for the project as it progressed.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the update; and
ii.    AGREED that consideration be given to how the proposed energy efficiency feasibility study could be applied to other older buildings in the City.

5. Yearly Annual Report on Inverness Business Improvement District (BID)
Aithisg Bhliadhnail mu Sgìre Leasachadh Gnothachais Inbhir Nis    

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/1/20 dated 6 January 2020 by the Inverness City Area Manager.

Mr P Strachan, Chair, Inverness BID, gave a presentation in amplification of the report, during which he expressed thanks to the Council for its increased focus on Inverness City Centre.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• Inverness had a worldwide reputation and its natural beauty had been greatly enhanced over the years through partnership working with BID.  Support was expressed for the initiatives outlined in the report, with particular reference being made to the Coach Friendly Project, City Summer Floral Displays, Security Task Team and Taxi Marshalls, Amenity Ambassadors, and Gull Management;
• BID had done a fantastic job in terms of raising awareness of how important the city centre was, increasing footfall and improving safety;
• charities that occupied premises in the city centre, such as Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey Citizens Advice Bureau, were excluded from BID activities as they did not pay a levy, and BID was missing an opportunity to develop something unique by tapping into a different sector that could add value to the work already taking place.  The voluntary sector had experience of motivating and mobilising volunteers, and many volunteers would want to enhance the city centre.  In particular, there could be opportunities for intergenerational work and learning experiences.  The Chair of Inverness BID thanked Members for their comments and undertook to take them back to the BID Board, Members of which had strong connections to the charitable sector, for consideration;
• the need for businesses to be involved in the discussions regarding transport in the city centre was emphasised, and Councillor MacWilliam, Chair of the Inverness Community Partnership Transport Subgroup, invited the Chair of Inverness BID and any BID members who wished to attend to the next meeting of the Subgroup.  This was welcomed by the Chair of Inverness BID.  Members added that people spent more money when they came in to the city centre by public transport or bicycle, and information was sought, and provided, on what BID was doing to encourage active travel; and
• Members commended the work that had taken place in terms of gull management was welcomed, and information was sought, and provided, on what could be done to further reduce the number of gulls.  Information also having been sought on whether anything could be done to reduce the number of pigeons and rabbits, the Provost confirmed that officers worked closely with Environmental Health in that regard.

The Committee NOTED:-

i.    the work as detailed in the report; and
ii.    the presentation provided by Inverness BID representatives and the on-going development of partnership working.

6. Police – Area Performance Summary Report     
Poileas – Geàrr-aithisg Coileanadh Sgìreil

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/2/20 dated 10 February 2020 by Chief Inspector Mairi MacInnes, Area Commander.

In introducing the report, Chief Inspector MacInnes thanked Members for their ongoing support of the policing team in Inverness and provided the following operational updates:-

• further to previous discussions regarding rural house break-ins, the two vacancies in Fort Augustus had been filled so the rural policing team was now fully resourced and in a better position for the forthcoming summer season;
• all officers in Inverness were now trained in the use of handheld mobile data devices which allowed them to access their entire desktop database.  This had been transformational as it had reduced time spent in the office and enabled officers to be out more often and to be more visible;
• new drug driving legislation had come into force in October 2019, meaning that if someone was believed to be driving under the influence of drugs they could be given a roadside test involving a mouth swab.  Road policing officers, as well as a number of operational officers, had been trained in the use of the new test, and a number of people had failed the test; and
• the findings of the “Your Police” public consultation survey had been published.  In Highland, the top priority was road safety, followed by selling or using drugs, which was in line with local and national priorities.

In addition, reference was made to the four domestic house break-ins that had taken place in Inverness in recent weeks, and the importance of reporting suspicious activity, particularly doorstep crime and any unusual activity in the street, to the police was emphasised.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• in relation to community policing in Culloden and Ardersier, it was questioned what was happening in the evenings as Members had been advised that there was no one on shift to attend Community Council meetings.  This was cause for concern as it was during the evening that antisocial behaviour took place.  The areas that young people congregated were well known to the police, and information was sought on how this was being addressed.  In response, it was explained that the provision of the beats team had been reviewed as it was not sustainable in its previous format, and there was now a team of officers as well as dedicated beat officers.  Contact would be made by one of the beats team prior to Community Council meetings and a report would be submitted.  If there were ongoing issues that required a police presence every effort would be made to attend.  There were response teams to deal with any ongoing anti-social behaviour.  Further discussion ensued, during which Members commented that Community Councils expected and valued a police presence at meetings, even when there was a low level of crime in the area, and it was necessary to inform them of the new arrangements.  Likewise, Community Council meetings were a source of information for the police, and it was important not to lose that link.  In addition, whilst it was recognised that there was now a team of officers, it was suggested that consideration be given to identifying a named officer for each area that people could contact.  This would allow for more consistent communication and effective relationship building.  Chief Inspector MacInnes undertook to feed back Members’ comments to the community beats team;
• with regard to the robberies that had taken place in Fort Augustus the previous summer, local business operators would value a meeting to discuss the coming season and what they could do to protect themselves.  In particular, there was a need for a way to deposit money safely, and reference was made to ATMs overseas which doubled as night safes and operated without personnel.  The banks had not done enough for Highland communities and the Council Leader undertook to raise the matter with them again.  Chief Inspector MacInnes confirmed that she could arrange a meeting with local businesses as suggested;
• concern was expressed regarding an illegal rave that took place in Glenmoriston every autumn.  Last year, to the distress of residents, it had taken place close to houses, and the Council Leader sought a meeting with the police to discuss how to prevent or move it.  Chief Inspector MacInnes confirmed that the police were aware of the event and undertook to liaise with the Council Leader in terms of the work that had been carried out and the plans it was hoped to have in place this year;
• in relation to the Driver Engagement North initiative and the associated interactive driving simulator to assess a driver’s reactions and abilities, Members queried whether such an assessment could be applied for, commenting that many senior citizens would welcome the opportunity to participate.  Chief Inspector MacInnes suggested that Councillor Campbell email her in that regard and she would endeavour to find out; and
• in terms of antisocial behaviour, concern was expressed regarding drivers racing on the A9 at Drumossie Brae late at night.  The B9006 road to Culloden Battlefield was another area of concern in terms of speeding.  Chief Inspector MacInnes undertook to look in to the matter.

The Committee otherwise NOTED the progress made against the objectives set within the Highland and Islands Local Policing Plan 2017-2020 Year 3, attached as Annex A to the report, for the period covering 1 April 2019 to 31 December 2019.

7. Inverness Community Safety Partnership (ICSP)     
Com-pàirteachas Sàbhailteachd Coimhearsnachd Inbhir Nis (ICSP)

There had been circulated Report No CIA/3/20 dated 30 January 2020 by the Inverness City Area Manager.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• in relation to the support provided to Inverness Foodstuffs, reducing food waste would have an impact on climate change, and it was helpful to report positive impacts as well as negative ones;
• the update on what was an effective and well-managed Community Safety Partnership was welcomed; and
• Councillor Campbell, as the Committee’s representative on the ICSP, commented that she was privileged to contribute to the Partnership’s mission statement, and invited Members to contact her if they had any matters they wished to put forward for consideration by the Partnership.

The Committee otherwise NOTED:-

i.    the work of ICSP since the last report dated May 2018 to date;
ii.    the work of the Operation Respect Daytime Group;
iii.    the updated ICSP Constitution and Terms of Reference and the agreed new governance, oversight and accountability structures and reporting lines of communication arrangements which were now aligned to the Safer Highland Partnership directly through the Inverness Community Partnership; and  
iv.    that the Inverness City Area Committee would continue to receive an annual update on the work of the Inverness Community Safety Partnership in addition to any updates as part of regular Police and Fire scrutiny reports. 

8. Inverness Community Safety Partnership – Operation Respect City Centre 2019 Winter Festival Period Evaluation Report    
Com-pàirteachas Sàbhailteachd Coimhearsnachd Inbhir Nis – Aithisg Mheasaidh Ùine Fèis Geamhraidh 2019 ‘Operation Respect’ Meadhan a’ Bhaile    

There had been circulated Joint Report No CIA/4/20 dated 6 February 2020 by the Operation Respect Festive Partners.

During discussion, Members commended the success of Operation Respect and expressed thanks and appreciation to all those involved.  Working in partnership made for a much more effective initiative, and the city centre had benefited from it.

In relation to the top three crime types, information was sought on the reasons for the increase in the number of common assaults on emergency workers.  Chief Inspector MacInnes undertook to investigate and get back to Councillor McAllister.

The Committee otherwise NOTED the evaluation available to date on the effectiveness of Operation Respect - City Centre for Winter 2019. 

9. Riverside Way – Update and Next Steps
Slighe na h-Aibhne – Ath Cheumannan

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/5/20 dated 6 February 2020 by the Executive Chief Officer, Infrastructure and Environment.

In addition, there had been tabled a letter dated 20 February 2020 from Sustrans who, it was explained, had been unable to send a representative to the meeting.

The Executive Chief Officer, Infrastructure and Environment, gave a presentation in amplification of the report.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• it was disappointing that there was not a representative from Sustrans to provide more information;
• it had been confirmed in the report that there had been a significant decrease in traffic in the area concerned but this was not considered to be accurate;
• the information in respect of the current number of cyclists using this particular route was also queried and it was questioned as to whether there were examples/case studies from other areas where a cycle contraflow had been successful;
• it had to highlighted that this might not be the best use of public money under the circumstances;
• there were concerns about future arrangements for coach parking in the area;
• whilst being supportive of active travel as concept and also 20mph zones, the local community were not in agreement with these particular proposals and as such there was a need for the Council to strengthen its consultation and engagement processes;
• Ballifeary Community Council had asked for a strategy for the entire area between the River and the A82 and it would be more beneficial if this could be provided as an alternative;
• the setting up of a workshop to engage local people in the design would be welcomed;
• on the basis that many within the local community were against a one-way system in this area, other options should be investigated;
• the current contraflow on Ardross Terrace was currently very dangerous for cyclists and this should be taken into account;
• full and detailed consultation and discussion with the local community should have been undertaken before a decision was taken on the design;
• constructive consensus on the way forward would be advantageous in terms of taking this forward with local residents;
• there were serious concerns about the proposed road markings which had been contained within the diagrams in the report;
• it was essential to balance the interests of all road users in the area whilst going ahead with the Road Traffic Order in order to be able to identify the best possible solution for the long term; and
• there was a need to undertake repairs to the road surface outside the RNI building as a matter of priority.

Following further general discussion, Mr A Jarvie, seconded by Mr C Smith, moved that the Experimental Road Traffic Order Regulation Order should not proceed at this stage.

As a first amendment, Mr R MacWilliam, seconded by Mr B Boyd, moved the following addition to recommendation iii(b) of the report:-

“which will include an options appraisal for alternative designs to be completed in conjunction with the Ballifeary Community Council and other stakeholders.”

As a second amendment, Mr A Christie, seconded by Mrs H Carmichael, moved the recommendations in the report.

At this point, the City Area Manager advised the Committee that whilst the first amendment was competent, it should be noted that if agreed, Officers would be required to take findings from the Experimental Scheme back to the community for formal consideration before presenting these findings to the Committee.

On a vote being taken between the first amendment and the second amendment, the first amendment received 5 votes and the second amendment received 13 votes, with 3 abstentions, the votes having been cast as follows:-

For the First Amendment:

Mr B Boyd, Mr I Brown, Mr K Gowans, Mr R MacWilliam and Ms E Roddick.

For the Second Amendment:

Mr R Balfour, Mrs C Caddick, Miss J Campbell, Mrs H Carmichael, Mr A Christie, Mrs M Davidson, Mr A Graham, Mr J Gray, Mrs I MacKenzie, Mr D Macpherson, Mrs B McAllister, Mrs T Robertson and Mr G Ross.

Abstentions:

Mr G Cruickshank, Mr A Jarvie and Mr C Smith.

On a subsequent vote being taken between the motion and the second amendment, the motion received 4 votes and the second amendment received 14 votes, with 3 abstentions.  The second amendment was therefore carried, the votes having been cast as follows:-

For the Motion:

Mr B Boyd, Mr G Cruickshank, Mr A Jarvie and Mr C Smith.

For the Second Amendment:

Mr R Balfour, Mr I Brown, Mrs C Caddick, Miss J Campbell, Mrs H Carmichael, Mr A Christie, Mrs M Davidson, Mr A Graham, Mr J Gray, Mr D Macpherson, Mrs B McAllister, Mrs T Robertson, Ms E Roddick and Mr G Ross.

Abstentions:

Mr K Gowans, Mrs I MacKenzie and Mr R MacWilliam.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the contents of the report, including the background, and preliminary engagement feedback;
ii.    NOTED that the effects of the Experimental Road Traffic Regulation Order (ERTRO) would be carefully monitored and reviewed in compliance with the statutory requirements and in the interests of road safety; and 
iii.    AGREED that it be delegated to the Executive Chief Officer (Infrastructure and Environment) to:-
a.    advertise the Experimental Road Traffic Regulation Order, with cycle contraflow, for part of Ness Walk and part of Bught Road (between Bishops Road and Bught Drive);
b.    bring back a report to Committee in the event there were sustained objections to the ERTRO; 
c.    subject to there being no objections, make and implement the ERTRO;
d.    act as the specified officer of the authority in terms of section 10 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984; and
e.    subject to the making of the ERTRO, arrange ongoing engagement with the Community Council and those who had raised concerns at any stage of the process, and submit a Review Report to a future Committee as soon as possible after the ERTRO has been in operation for a period of 6 months.

10. Road Maintenance Programme 2020/21    
Prògram Càradh Rathaid 2020/21

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/6/20 dated 5 February 2020 by the Executive Chief Officer (Infrastructure and Environment). 

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

• Officers were thanked for the considerable level of work which had been undertaken;
• it had to be acknowledged that the amount of money available for the maintenance of roads was minimal and as such there was a need for all Members to support an increase for the  Council’s Roads Budget during the budget setting process;
• roads across the area had deteriorated sharply over the past few weeks due to the severe weather conditions;
• it was therefore proposed that, in addition to the recommendations in the report, the Chairs of the E&I and Corporate Resources Committees should be asked to complete the exercise to understand the Highland’s Roads Budget allocations and plan ahead how best to use any additional funds, both capital and resources, for roads and to address the key issue of investment in arterial routes in urban areas as a matter of importance and within as short a timescale as possible;
• there was also a need to examine the roads allocation formula from an evidence based point of view;
• liaison with both the UK and Scottish Governments should be undertaken; and
• in relation to road repairs, contact should also be made with utility companies who often undertook extensive work which affected the condition of the road network across the Highlands.

The Committee APPROVED the proposed 2020/21 Roads Maintenance Programme for City of Inverness Area.

The Committee also AGREED the following as proposed at the meeting by the Leader of the Council – 

‘To ask the Provost (on behalf of the City Committee) to ask the Chairs of the Environment &Infrastructure and Corporate Resources Committees to complete the exercise to understand the Highland’s Roads Budget allocations and plan ahead how to best use any additional funds, both capital and resources, for roads and to address the key issue of investment in arterial routes in our urban areas. 

Also, to ask the Committee Chairs to take forward the work with pace after completion of the budget process’.     

11. Housing Performance Report – 1 April 2019 to 31 December 2019
Aithisg Dèanadais Taigheadais – 1 Giblean 2019 gu 31 Dùbhlachd 2019
                                                                                                                    
There had been circulated Report No. CIA/7/20 dated 6 February 2020 by the Executive Chief Officer (Property and Housing).

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

• in relation to tenancy management, and specifically the average re-let time target of 35 days, it was suggested that consideration should be given to undertaking an assessment of properties before they were vacated by tenants in order to identify any repairs required at this early date which could lead to a subsequent reduction in the re-let timescale;
• in regard to the HRA Capital Programme for the Inverness City and Area, and in particular the current underspend on Equipment and Adaptations, it was noted that projects were carried forward to the next financial year as and when necessary; and
• also in relation to the HRA Capital Programme, and specifically Heating Replacements in Inverness, there was concern at the high percentage of tenants currently opting out of energy efficiency works and it was suggested that further information should be provided in this regard, including any potential safety implications arising from upgrades not being undertaken.     

The Committee NOTED the information provided on Housing Performance in the period 1 April 2019 to 31 December 2019.

12. Housing Revenue Account: Garage Rents 2020/21    

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/8/20 dated 6 February 2020 by the Executive Chief Officer (Property and Housing).

The Committee AGREED that a 3% rent increase be applied to Inverness Garages and Garage Sites.

13. Inverness-Scotland.com Website    
Làrach-lìn Inverness-Scotland.com

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Jarvie declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Director of High Life Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/9/20 dated 11 February 2020 by the Inverness City Area Manager. 

During discussion, and in agreeing with the recommendation within the report, it was suggested that consideration should also be given to provision of a timeline in relation to working with partners on this issue, with a suggestion of a period of approximately six months which could be reviewed thereafter if necessary.    

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the current position with the Inverness-Scotland website; and
ii.    AGREED that this site be discontinued while an alternative was agreed with the Council’s partners that also reflected current developments and new requirements with the address temporarily redirected to ensure the user experience was protected.

14. Inverness Common Good Fund    
Maoin Math Coitcheann Inbhir Nis

a) Financial Monitoring and Capital Projects 
Sgrùdadh Ionmhasail agus Pròiseactan Calpa

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/10/20 dated 7 February 2020 by the Inverness City Area Manager. 
The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the financial monitoring report as circulated, that overall expenditure was within agreed budgets  and that further information on expenditure on Commemorative Bedding would be provided for Mrs T Robertson; and 
ii.    NOTED the current status of capital projects.

b) Budget Setting for 2020/21 and Capital Programme
Suidheachadh Buidseit airson 2020/21 agus Prògram Calpa

There had been circulated Joint Report No. CIA/11/20 dated 10 February 2020 by the Executive Chief Officer (Resources and Finance) and the Inverness City Area Manager. 

The Committee AGREED the Common Good Fund budget for 2020/21 as detailed within the report and appendices.

c) Grants Applications over £10,000
Iarrtasan Tabhartais thar £10,000

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/12/20 dated 4 February 2020 by the Inverness City Area Manager. 

In this connection, there had been circulated separately a copy of supporting documentation as Booklet A.

The Committee NOTED that the Grants Budget for 2019/20 had been fully allocated and the changes in consideration of grant applications; and 

APPROVED the following applications for funding:-

• Floral Displays 2020 - £61,138 – on the basis that further detail on proposed spend in future years would be provided for the Grants Sub Committee;
• Coach Ambassador 2020 - £10,500
• Operation Respect Task Team Easter/Summer 2020 - £8,560
• Inverness Gull Project 2020 - £12,000
• Inverness Community Safety Partnership 2020 - £9,700

d) Gypsy Travelling People Site
Làrach Luchd-siubhail Siopsach

There had been circulated Report No. CIA/13/20 dated 23 January 2020 by the Inverness City Area Manager. 

The Committee APPROVED expenditure of £61,846 to clear the area of debris and vegetation and to provide a weed suppressant geotextile covered with a hardcore surface.

15. Appointments to Sub-Committee, Working Groups etc    
Cur an Dreuchd gu Fo-Chomataidhean, Buidhnean-obrach is eile

The Committee AGREED the following:-

Inverness Common Good Fund Sub-Committee – Ms E Roddick to replace Mr R Laird as put forward by the SNP Group.  

Victorian Market Stakeholder Management Group – Ms E Roddick to replace Mr R Laird as put forward by the SNP Group.  

16. Appointments to Outside Bodies
Cur an Dreuchd gu Buidhnean on Taobh A-muigh

The Committee APPROVED the appointment of Ms E Roddick to replace Mr R Laird on Merkinch Enterprise and the Merkinch Partnership.

It was also AGREED that Mr D Macpherson should be appointed to the Inverness Civic Trust.

17. Minutes
Geàrr-chunntas

The following Minutes were circulated for noting or approval as appropriate:-

i.    City of Inverness Area Committee held on 21 November 2019 – NOTED; 
ii.    Inverness City Arts Working Group held on 6 November 2019 – APPROVED;
iii.    Inverness Events and Festivals Working Group held on 18 November 2019 – APPROVED – subject to removal of ‘B McAllister from the attendance list;   
iv.    Victorian Market Stakeholder Management Group held on 3 December 2019 – NOTED; and
v.    Inverness Common Good Fund Grants Sub-Committee held on 3 February 2020 – APPROVED.  

18. Exclusion of the Public
Às-dùnadh a’ Phobaill

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

19. Inverness Common Good Account Sites and Premises Transaction Report
Aithisg Gnothachais Làraich agus Togalaichean Chunntasan Maoin Math Choitcheann Inbhir Nis

There had been circulated to Members only Joint Report No CIA/14/20 dated 4 February 2020 by the Head of Development and Regeneration and the Property Manager (Estates).

The Committee NOTED the terms of the report as circulated. 

The meeting ended at 3.40pm.