STIRLING COUNCIL

 

MINUTES of the MEETING of STIRLING COUNCIL held in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS,
VIEWFORTH, STIRLING on THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018 at 10.00 AM

 

Present:

Provost Christine SIMPSON (in the Chair)

 

Councillor Maureen BENNISON
Councillor Neil BENNY
Councillor Alistair BERRILL
Councillor Margaret BRISLEY
Councillor Robert DAVIES
Councillor Douglas DODDS
Councillor Martin EARL
Councillor Scott FARMER
Councillor Bryan FLANNAGAN
Councillor Danny GIBSON

Councillor Graham HOUSTON
Councillor Chris KANE
Councillor Graham LAMBIE
Councillor Alison LAURIE
Councillor Alastair MAJURY
Councillor Jeremy MCDONALD
Councillor Susan MCGILL
Councillor Ross OXBURGH

Councillor Alasdair TOLLEMACHE
Councillor Jim THOMSON

 

In Attendance

 

Carol Beattie, Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise
Jim Boyle, Chief Officer – Finance (Localities & Infrastructure)
Stewart Carruth, Chief Executive

Christina Cox, Service Manager Planning & Building Standards (Localities & Infrastructure)
Martin Dalziel, Senior Media Officer (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Anne Ferguson, Senior Manager Economic Development & Regeneration (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Emma Fyvie, Planning Policy Team Leader (Localities & Infrastructure)

Lesley Gallagher Service Manager Regeneration & Wellbeing (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Carol Hamilton, Tenants Services Manager (Children, Communities & Enterprise)
Kristine Johnson, Chief Officer HR & OD (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Kevin Kelman, Senior Manager Schools & Learning (Children, Communities & Enterprise)
John MacMillan, Integrated Facilities Management Manager (Localities & Infrastructure)
Ruth McColgan, Lead Solicitor- Communities & Young People (Localities & Infrastructure)
Louise McDonald, Support Officer (Localities & Infrastructure)

Alan Milliken, Senior Manager Communities & People (Children, Communities & Enterprise)
Brian Roberts, Senior Manager Infrastructure (Localities & Infrastructure)

Iain Strachan, Chief Officer - Governance (Localities & Infrastructure) (Clerk)
Karen Swan, Committee Officer (Localities & Infrastructure)

Marie Valente, Senior Manager Children & Families (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

 

Announcements

 

Prior to the start of the meeting the Provost congratulated Ruth McColgan, Lead Solicitor – Communities & Young People for her achievement in being awarded the Rising Star of the Year at the 2018 Scottish Legal Awards.

The Provost was also delighted to announce that homes and businesses in Stirling were to be among the first in the UK to benefit from gigabit speed full fibre broadband. Digital infrastructure provider CityFibre, in partnership with Vodafone, had chosen Stirling to be among the next 4 UK cities to benefit from superfast broadband.‌‌‌

 

They would be investing £10 million in the city and work was scheduled to begin later this year.

 

The new infrastructure would build on the fibre network already installed by Stirling Council to provide high speed connectivity to our schools, offices and libraries. Having fast and reliable access to the internet was an essential part of everyday life for both business and personal use.‌‌‌

 

These plans would help make sure Stirling was an area where everyone could thrive, and reaffirms the Council’s commitment to put the city at the forefront of modern technology.

 

She would like to thank officers for all their hard work on this exciting initiative.

 

SC97 APOLOGIES

 

Apologies were submitted on behalf of Councillor Alasdair MacPherson and
Councillor Evelyn Tweed.

 

SC98 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

 

There were no declarations of interest.

 

SC99 URGENT BUSINESS

 

There was no items of urgent business.

 

SC100 MINUTES

 

1. Special Meeting of Stirling Council – 22 February 2018

    

   The Minutes of the Special Meeting of Stirling Council held on 22 February 2018 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

2. Special Meeting of Stirling Council – 1 March 2018

    

   The Minutes of the Special Meeting of Stirling Council held on 1 March 2018 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

3. Meeting of Stirling Council – 1 March 2018

    

   The Minutes of the Meeting of Stirling Council held on 1 March 2018 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

4. Reconvened Special Meeting of Stirling Council – 15 March 2018‌‌‌‌

    

   The Minutes of the Reconvened Special Meeting of Stirling Council held on 15 March 2018 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

5. Reconvened Meeting of Stirling Council – 15 March 2018

    

   The Minutes of the Reconvened Meeting of Stirling Council held on 15 March 2018 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

6. Local Review Body – 8 March 2018

 

The Minutes of the Local Review Body held on 8 March 2018 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

 

SC101 WRITTEN QUESTIONS

 

Nine written questions had been received in terms of Standing Order 41. The
questions and answers are attached at Appendix 1 to these Minutes.

 

The Members who had put the written questions were allowed one supplementary question and the supplementary questions and answers are also included in Appendix 1.

 

SC102 QUESTION TIME

 

In terms of Standing Order 48, Members had the opportunity to put questions to the Provost, the Leader of the Council, any Portfolio Holder or Committee Convener or Chair of any Panel as appropriate regarding any business included in the Volume of Minutes circulated with the agenda for the meeting.

 

The following questions were put:-

 

Councillor Alastair Berrill - Minutes of Meeting of Public Safety Committee on 16 January 2018 (PU29 - Question regarding Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

– Transformation)

 

The Convener of Public Safety Committee confirmed that the Council were aware of concerns on the transformation and through the Committee were monitoring it.

 

Councillor Martin Earl – Minutes of Children & Young People Committee on 8 March 2018 (CY05 – Question regarding Inspection of McLaren High School – Publication of Education Scotland Report)

 

The Convener of Children & Young People Committee confirmed following the
results of the Inspection report, it would be closely monitored.

Councillor Neil Benny – Minutes of Community Planning & Regeneration Committee on 1 February 2018 (CR035 – Question regarding Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP/Locality Action Plan (LAP) Update)

 

The Convener of Community Planning & Regeneration confirmed that there would be individual LAP plans for each area of the LOIP, but could not yet confirm timescales.

 

Councillor Bryan Flannagan – Minutes of Public Safety Committee on 16 January 2018 (PU27 – Question regarding Police Performance Report for Stirling Area: April 2017 – August 2017)

 

The Convener of Public Safety Committee confirmed that there would be further discussion with the Police Scotland and that a report on lack of custody cells in Stirling would be submitted to Public Safety Committee.

 

Councillor Jeremy McDonald – Minutes of Public Safety Committee on 13 March 2018 (PU40 – Question regarding Local Fire & Rescue Plan for Stirling 2017)

 

The Convener of Public Safety Committee confirmed that it would not be appropriate for individual rescue services to report to the Committee.

 

Councillor Ross Oxburgh – Minutes of Reconvened Meeting of Stirling Council
on 15 March 2018 (SC96 (Officer Advise) – Question regarding Scrutiny Panel)

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that a report on Enforcement would be submitted to the next Environment & Housing Committee.

 

Councillor Alasdair Tollemache – Minutes of Environment & Housing Committee on 8 February 2018 (EH031 – Question regarding C48 Bus Service)

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that they were in the process of seeking the views of the users.

 

SC103 VACANCY – APPOINTMENT TO RAPLOCH URBAN REGENERATION LIMITED AND STIRLING COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE LIMITED

 

The Council was invited to fill vacancies on the Boards of both the Raploch Urban Regeneration Company and Stirling Community Enterprise Limited.

 

At its meeting on 24 May 2017, Council appointed 3 Elected Members to sit as
Directors on the Boards of both the Raploch Urban Regeneration Company Limited and Raploch URC Landholdings (now called Stirling Community Enterprise Limited).

 

• Councillor Danny Gibson

   

• Councillor Susan McGill

   

• Councillor Jim Thomson

Councillor Gibson had resigned his appointment as a Director of Raploch Urban
Regeneration Company Limited, and had not formally completed his appointment as a Director of Stirling Community Enterprise Limited.

 

Motion

 

Councillor Gibson, seconded by Councillor Farmer moved a Motion to defer decision to the next meeting of Stirling Council on 28 June 2018.

 

Direct Negative

 

Councillor Benny, seconded by Councillor Earl moved the Direct Negative.

 

The Direct Negative, having been duly moved and seconded, the vote was taken for and against the Motion as required in terms of Standing Order 72.

 

For the Motion (12)

 

Councillor Maureen Bennison
Councillor Margaret Brisley
Councillor Douglas Dodds
Councillor Scott Farmer
Councillor Danny Gibson
Councillor Graham Houston
Councillor Chris Kane
Councillor Graham Lambie
Councillor Alison Laurie
Councillor Susan McGill
Councillor Christine Simpson
Councillor Jim Thomson

 

Against the Motion (8)

 

Councillor Neil Benny
Councillor Alistair Berrill
Councillor Robert Davies
Councillor Martin Earl
Councillor Bryan Flannagan
Councillor Alastair Majury
Councillor Jeremy McDonald
Councillor Ross Oxburgh

 

The Motion was carried by 12 votes to 8 votes and accordingly Council agreed to defer decision on this item to the next scheduled meeting of Stirling Council on 28 June 2018.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed to defer decision on this item to the next scheduled meeting of Stirling Council on 28 June 2018.

 

(Reference: Report by Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise, dated 24 April 2018 submitted)

SC104 STIRLING COUNCIL ORGANISATIONAL REVIEW - STRUCTURE‌

 

The purpose of the report was to seek approval of the senior management structure by the Council.

 

It had approximately two years since the current senior management structure was approved. It was timely that the review take place to better integrate our services using the data that we had, to better inform our decision making against a background of declining budget and increasing citizen expectation.

 

The proposed changes to the Senior Management structure would provide a more efficient organisational structure, that better enabled the Council to meet is financial operation challenges, and to deliver the Council’s Key Priorities.

 

In response to a question from a Member, it was noted that the Committees each service was aligned to in the structure chart was only indicative, and the Terms of Reference dictate which service reported to which Committee.‌‌

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed to:

 

1. approve the revised senior management structure contained in Appendix 1 to the submitted report, and the implementation of the same by the Chief Executive;

    

2. note that if, in terms of the Council’s Organisational Change Policy, the
   implementation of the restructure required a competitive recruitment/competitive selection process to appoint an individual to any of the Senior Manager or Chief Officer posts within the revised senior management structure, then an Appointments Panel(s) of Elected Members would be convened for this purpose;

    

3. agree to delegate authority to the Chief Officer – Governance to make any necessary changes to the Scheme of Delegation, Financial Regulations, Contract Standing Orders and other related or similar Council documentation to reflect the said revised senior management structure, and circulate the same to Elected Members for information; and

    

4. note that the Chief Executive would make any necessary changes to the Sub- Scheme of Delegation to reflect the said revised senior management structure, and circulate the same to Elected Members for information.

 

(Reference: Report by Chief Executive, dated 19 April 2018 submitted)

 

SC105 CHANGES TO PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING AND DETERMINING PLANNING
APPLICATIONS

The Planning Service had been implementing an Improvement Plan (Phase 1) which covered the period February 2017 to February 2018 and had developed, but not yet published, a Phase 2 Improvement Plan to cover the period April 2018 to April 2019.

 

The Phase 2 Improvement Plan has been informed by performance evidenced in the Stirling Council Planning Performance Framework (PPF) 2016-17 that was submitted to Scottish Ministers for consideration and customer feedback that had been ascertained over the period 2017-2018.

A key part of the Phase 2 Plan involved proposed changes to the Chief Executive’s Sub-Scheme of Delegation as it related to the determination of the planning applications and proposed changes to procedures for the operation of the Planning & Regulation Panel, the latter of which were dependent upon changes to Standing Orders that required full Council approval.

 

In response to a Members’ questions, the Planning & Building Standards Manager confirmed that Community Council training would be given through a number of sessions over May /June 2018 to understand the new process.

 

She also explained the 56 hours notification was to encompass the weekend
timeframe but also accepted Members concerns with Public holidays. She confirmed that these would be included in the process.

 

Amendment

 

Replace officer recommendation 4 with:

 

1. Council instructs that a report will be provided to Council in December 2018 reviewing the impact and effectiveness of the proposed changes to the Chief Executive’s Sub-Scheme of Delegation as it relates to determining planning applications, the proposed changes to the Planning and Regulation Panel procedures and feedback obtained from applicants, communities and Elected Members as to how these new arrangements are working in practice.

    

   Add the following:

    

2. Council resolves that if Council does not reaffirm its continued approval of these changes at the scheduled full meeting of Council in December 2018, arrangements will automatically revert back to their current state prior to this meeting, subject to Scottish Ministers approval of that reversal.

 

Proposed by Councillor Jim Thomson and Councillor Danny Gibson
The Amendment was agreed unanimously.

Decision

 

The Council agreed to: -

 

1. note the changes that would be made to the Chief Executive’s Sub-Scheme of Delegation as it related to the determination of planning applications, as set out in Appendix 1 to the submitted report, and to note that the Chief Officer – Governance would (i) submit the same to the Scottish Ministers for their approval and subsequent adoption by the Council as the Council’s Scheme of Delegation for determining planning applications in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (as amended), and (ii) agree any minor changes to
   the same with the Scottish Ministers;

    

2. note that the Chief Officer – Governance would notify Elected members of the Scottish Ministers’ approval or otherwise of the above mentioned changes to the Chief Executive’s Sub-Scheme of Delegation as it related to the determination of planning applications, and the date which the same would take effect;

3. approve the proposed changes to procedures for the Planning and Regulation Panel as set out in Appendix 2 to the submitted report, which would come into effect on 4 May 2018;‌‌

    

4. instruct that a report would be provided to Council in December 2018 reviewing the impact and effectiveness of the proposed changes to the Chief Executive’s Sub Scheme of Delegation as it related to determining Planning applications, the proposed changes to the Planning and Regulations Panel procedures and feedback obtained from applicants, communities and Elected Members as to how these new arrangements were working in practice; and

    

5. resolve that if Council did not reaffirm its continued approval of these changes at the scheduled full meeting of Council in December 2018, arrangements would automatically revert back their current state prior to that meeting, subject to Scottish Ministers approval of that reversal.

 

(Reference: Report by Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise, dated 25 April 2018 submitted)

 

SC106 STIRLING LOCAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN: MODIFIED PLAN AND REPORT

 

A review of the Stirling Local Development Plan (LDP) began in late 2014 and,
following a ‘Call for Sites’ exercise, a Main Issues Report was published in July 2015. After taking account of responses received at that time, the Proposed Stirling Local Development Plan was approved by Council in June 2016. A 12 week period of consultation took place thereafter and just under 200 responses were received which amounted to almost 400 individual points of representation. All representations were summarised. Council responses prepared and, in December 2016, Council gave authority for the Proposed Plan to progress to Examination stage.

 

The LDP Examination into all unresolved representations began in February 2017 and the final report of Examination was issued to the Council on 24 November 2017.

 

The purpose of the report was to present to Council for consideration and approval Stirling Council’s response to the Scottish Government’s Department for Planning and Environmental Appeals (DPEA) recommendations in respect of the Proposed Stirling local Development Plan. It also sought approval to proceed to adopt the Stirling Local Development Plan as modified by the report of Examination and the Environmental Report. Furthermore, it asked members to note both a position statement on the Council’s current Housing Land Supply and forthcoming work to deliver housing development.

 

Approval of Council was required as the Local Development Plan was a key policy document of the Council. It sets out how the Stirling area would grow and develop over the next 10-20 years and provided a set of robust policies which development proposal would be assessed.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing thanked the officers for the work entailed in the Stirling Local Development Plan.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed to:-

1. approve the responses to the reporter’s recommendations as detailed in
   Appendix 3 to the submitted report;

    

2. approve the non-notifiable modifications to the Proposed Stirling Local
   Development Plan as listed in Appendix 4 to the submitted report;

    

3. authorise the publication and public deposit of the Proposed Stirling Local Development Plan as modified and the tables of modifications;

    

4. unless directed otherwise by Scottish Ministers, adopt the Proposed Stirling Local Development Plan as modified;

    

5. note the current Stirling Council position on Housing Land Supply as set out in Appendix 2 to the submitted report; and

    

6. approve the updated Environmental Report set out in Appendix 5 to the
   submitted report

 

(Reference: Report by Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise, dated 24 April 2018, submitted)

 

SC107 MOTIONS IN TERMS OF STANDING ORDER 16

 

Prior to the Meeting, Elected Members had received supplementary information from Officers on the subject of these Motions. The supplementary information is attached as Appendix 2 to these Minutes.

 

1. Bridge over the River Teith
   Motion

   “Council notes the work that has been done to secure a second road and pedestrian bridge over the River Teith in Callander.

    

   Council believes that this would enable significant economic opportunities for Callander and the wider rural economy to the future.

    

   Council commits to continue work with all parties to ensure the inclusion of this project as part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.”

    

   Signed by Councillor Martin Earl and Councillor Jeremy McDonald

    

   Amendment

    

   (To replace the Motion in its entirety)

    

   Council notes the imminent signed up to the heads of terms for the much awaited Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.

    

   Council resolves to ensure that the ensuing benefits are accessible across both our urban and rural communities in maximising economic growth through a strong evidential base and tackling inequalities will be a the heart of these initiatives.

    

   Proposed by Councillor Scott Farmer and Councillor Danny Gibson.

   On the roll being called the Members present voted as follows:-
   For the Amendment (12)

   Councillor Maureen Bennison
   Councillor Margaret Brisley
   Councillor Scott Farmer
   Councillor Danny Gibson
   Councillor Graham Houston
   Councillor Chris Kane
   Councillor Graham Lambie
   Councillor Alison Laurie
   Councillor Susan McGill
   Councillor Christine Simpson
   Councillor Alasdair Tollemache
   Councillor Jim Thomson

    

   Against the Amendment (9)

    

   Councillor Neil Benny
   Councillor Alistair Berrill
   Councillor Robert Davies
   Councillor Douglas Dodds
   Councillor Martin Earl
   Councillor Bryan Flannagan
   Councillor Alastair Majury
   Councillor Jeremy McDonald
   Councillor Ross Oxburgh

    

   The Amendment was carried by 12 votes to 9 votes and became the Substantive Motion.

    

   In light of the amendment becoming the Substantive Motion, the Substantive Motion was agreed unanimously without the need for a further vote on the same.

    

   Decision

    

   Council notes the imminent signing up to heads of terms for the much awaited Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.

    

   Council resolves to ensure that the ensuring economic benefits are accessible across both our urban and rural communities in maximising economic through a strong evidential base and tackling inequalities would be a the heart of these initiatives.

    

2. Standing order 65 (b)

 

“Notice was given a the Council meeting on the 1st March of an amendment to the standing orders

 

Council notes that the overuse of Standing Order 65 (b) had led to Councillors being unable to represent their constituents in debate. Council resolves to amend standing orders as follows:

 

In Standing Order 65, delete item (B) and relist appropriately.”
Signed by Councillor Neil Benny and Councillor Ross Oxburgh Procedural Motion

”That the question is now put to the vote.”

 

Moved by Councillor Scott Farmer, seconded by Councillor Danny Gibson.

 

This was put without discussion and voted on by a show of hands, in accordance with Standing Orders.

 

There were 11 in favour of and 10 against the Procedural Motion.
On the roll being called the Members present voted as follows:-
Motion

For the Motion (10)

 

Councillor Neil Benny
Councillor Alastair Berrill
Councillor Robert Davies
Councillor Douglas Dodds
Councillor Martin Earl
Councillor Bryan Flannagan
Councillor Alastair Majury
Councillor Jeremy McDonald
Councillor Ross Oxburgh
Councillor Alasdair Tollemache

 

Against the Motion (11)

 

Councillor Maureen Bennison
Councillor Margaret Brisley
Councillor Scott Farmer
Councillor Danny Gibson
Councillor Graham Houston
Councillor Chris Kane
Councillor Graham Lambie
Councillor Alison Laurie
Councillor Susan McGill
Councillor Christine Simpson
Councillor Jim Thomson

 

The Motion falls by 11 votes to 10 votes.

 

Decision

 

Council resolves not to delete Standing Order 65, item (b).

The Committee resolved under Section 50A (4) of the Local Government (Scotland)
Act 1973 that the public be excluded from the meeting for the following item of
business on the grounds they involved the disclosure of exempt information as
defined in Paragraph 8 of Part 1 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland)
Act 1973.

 

SC108 MID-MARKET RENT – STIRLING WATERFRONT NHT 2011 LLP

 

Stirling Waterfront NHT 2011 LLP was set up to provide 16 unites of mid-market rent accommodation under the original National Housing Trust (NHT) model. Bett Homes (now called Avant) were the developer partner, and the other partners were Stirling Council and Scottish Futures Trust.

 

Avant Homes (Scotland) Limited were now looking to end their involvement in Stirling Waterfront NHT 2011 LLP.

 

It was proposed that Stirling Council buys the interest held by Avant and continued to run Stirling Waterfront NHT 2011 LLP in conjunction with the remaining member, the Scottish Futures Trust.

 

The proposal would, in effect, give the Council full control over the vehicle, and enable the Council to ensure it was directed towards meeting the Council’s Key Priorities in respect of housing. There would be risk with any such venture, but was still considered to be a good market for the properties owned by the partnership, and considering the commercial terms upon which it was proposed the Council buys out Avant, it was considered the risks were suitably low and sufficiently mitigated.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed:-

 

1. to purchase the interest held by Avant Homes (Scotland) Limited in Stirling Waterfront NHT 2011 LLP for £300,000;

    

2. to provide shareholder funding of £130,000 to Stirling Waterfront NHT 2011 LLP to repay the outstanding liabilities of Avant Homes (Scotland) which were held by the LLP;

    

3. the funding for the proposal would be made from the strategic housing account; and

    

4. to delegate to the Senior Manager Environment & Place (or such other officer as they may further delegate to) full authority to conclude all legal and financial matters in relation to the transfer of Avant’s interest in Stirling Waterfront NHT 2011 LLP to the Council.

 

(Reference: Report by Senior Manager Environment & Place (Localities &
Infrastructure), dated 29 March 2018, submitted)

 

The Provost closed the meeting at 11.55 am

Appendix 1

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR MARTIN EARL FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

What capacity exists within the Local Authority to facilitate level 2 & 3 Child Protection training for all staff that require it to be in place?

 

Answer

 

Child Protection training is delivered on a multi-agency basis with Police Scotland, NHS Forth Valley and Clackmannanshire Council, guidance and responsibility overseen by the Child Protection Committee. Currently Level 1 training, together with Joint Investigation Interview Training is being provided within Stirling Council.

 

The post holder who provided Level 2 & 3 training, on a part-time basis left the Council, subsequently the Child Protection Committee commissioned a review of arrangements undertaken last year. The output of the review was a recommendation to establish a full- time multi-agency post which would take in both Child and Adult Protection training to ensure a streamlined and consistent framework.

 

Currently discussions are being held with the Clackmannanshire Social Services Learning & Development team in the design and line management of this new role.

 

In the meantime, the Children & Families Service Managers are providing support to colleagues to ensure they are appropriately aware of their role and procedures are followed.

 

Children and Families Update

 

At this time we remain resilient and capable in terms of operational understandings and practices as we have a stable staff group with a good grounding from child protection training experience in previous years. The Service staff group further enhance and build on their training experience via application in their day to day practice. Once trained in level 2
and 3 training there is also seldom a need for staff to return to undertake training around the same area of harm or type of intervention unless there have been changes in each that would merit this. Hence, at this time we remain resilient with a well trained staff body and have good resource ability to satisfactorily address and respond to child protection matters that arise.

 

We are confident that we have staff groups within Children and Families who are well trained in and skilled at managing child protection work. We are not complacent however and our focus is on how we sustain this operational resilience over the year coming and build upon it as the environment of harm changes and grows, for example around Social Media, understandings of coercive control and more. To this end we have met with the Organisational Development Team and set out a range of training requirements for the year ahead and meet again today to prioritise and scope out costings around each.

Within this plan are various new elements of child protection training such as Safe and Together, Risk Assessment Training around Sexually Harmful Behaviours and more.

With this set out and a trainer recruited via CPC we are confident that the mix of internal delivery and externally commissioned training will sustain our resilience operationally well into the future here.

 

We seek to progress the recruitment of the post as quickly as possible via the CPC and Organisational Development.

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor Earl thanked the Convener of Children & Young People Committee and asked whether Council Officers receive the appropriate training and re-training required.

 

The Convener of Children and Young People Committee confirmed that they do.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR NEIL BENNY FOR ANSWER BY CHAIR OF ADULT SOCIAL CARE PANEL AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

What are the waiting times for an occupational Therapist assessment visit to be carried out?

 

Answer

 

Waits for assessment by an Occupational Therapist by Adult Social Care Services are dependent upon the assessment of risk and whether the referral meets the national eligibility criteria as critical or substantial need. In the last year, assessment waiting times have varied and could be up to a year.

 

With the recent addition of occupational therapy staff to meet critical need, the average wait is currently between 12 weeks and a year, again dependent on identified risks.

 

The service would want to move to a position of the average wait being 12 weeks. Waiting lists are reviewed regularly by each Team Manager.

 

The picture regarding waiting times in Stirling is broadly comparable with other local authorities.

 

As part of ongoing strategic needs analysis and strategic planning further consideration will be given to the analysis of this issue.

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor Benny thanked the Chair of Adult Social Care Panel and asked whether it was acceptable to wait up to a year or would it be reviewed specifically through a report.

 

The Chair of the Adult Social Care Panel confirmed that along with a recruitment drive, it would be reviewed on a regular basis.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR JEREMY MCDONALD FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER
OF COMMUNITY PLANNING & REGENERATION COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL
MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

When will a full consultation and review of the “your place, your priorities” event and process be undertaken and discussed at committee?

 

Answer

 

The “Your Place, Your Priorities” event is in the process of being fully evaluated and we are working with Participatory Budgeting Partners Network who will be our critical friend in the evaluation process, helping plan further engagement sessions with communities.

 

At the events, individuals/groups were informed that they were at the heart of shaping the

“ Your Place, Your Priorities” process going forward and we would be evaluating the events based on categorisations, event planning process, local context, environment, application process, voting process and evaluation feedback from attendees, community groups and staff.

 

The Community Planning & Regeneration Committee will receive a full evaluation report in September 2018 to align with the Community Planning Partnership area partnerships being set up which will allow for all recommendations to be incorporated into future partnership
working.

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor McDonald thanked the Convener of Community Planning & Regeneration Committee and asked whether a consultant had been employed and the cost implications.

 

The Convener of Community Planning & Regeneration Committee to investigate and follow up with Councillor McDonald.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR BRYAN FLANNAGAN FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER
OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO
BE HELD ON THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

How many classes in Stirling Schools have pupil numbers of 30 or more and how does this compare historically?

 

Answer

 

 

The table below shows how many primary classes in Stirling Schools have pupil numbers of 30 or more and how it compares historically:

 

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor Flannagan thanked the Convener of Children & Young People Committee and asked what she would say in respect of the statistics.

 

The Convener of Children & Young People replied that staff were working very hard and the Council has a good track record, albeit recruitment was an issue.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALISTAIR BERRILL FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

What guidance has gone out to teachers in Stirling’s schools with regards to the use of the term “British Values”?

 

Answer

 

No guidance has gone out to teachers in Stirling’s schools with regards to the use of the term “British Values”.

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor Berrill thanked the Convener of Children & Young People Committee and asked where Stirling Council’s teachers stand if no advice from Council.

 

The Convener of Children & Young People Committee advised to refer to the Curriculum of Excellence.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALASDAIR MAJURY FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER
OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE
HELD ON THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

When will the updated parking strategy for the Council area be completed?

 

Answer

 

The Parking Strategy Framework and Action plan will be considered at the next meeting of Environment and Housing Committee.

 

This comprises two elements; the Parking Strategy Framework which sets the strategic parking principles for the council area, and the Action Plan to implement this which will include development of parking management plans for each community.

 

It is intended that the community and business consultation on the Parking Management Plans for the City and individual towns and villages will commence in July. The programme and prioritisation for this consultation will be agreed by the committee as part of the action plan.

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor Majury thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee and asked whether Councillors would receive the strategy.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that the strategy covered all areas and that further discussion would be take place at a future Environment & Housing Committee, following wide consultations.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR DOUGLAS DODDS FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF
ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE
HELD ON THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

Since 1st January this year, how many households have not had their bins collected on their scheduled day?

 

Answer

 

The Service is unable to confirm the specific number of properties not collected on their scheduled day. The Service is currently migrating our route optimisation software from Bartec to Webaspx. However, we can provide the average monthly route completion figure, detailed in the table below from the data held by the Service.

 

 

The significant adverse weather experienced across Scotland over January, February and March 2018 had a considerable impact on route completion. The route completion for this period is similar to route completion over the same period in 2017, reflective of poor weather conditions.

 

The service will be able to provide more detailed information on route optimisation including property missed data when Webaspx is fully implemented in the coming weeks”.

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor Dodds thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee and asked, in respect of the above data, whether the weather was the issue.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that the breakdown of equipment had also impacted on bin collections but were now back on track.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ROSS OXBURGH FOR ANSWER BY HOUSING
PORTFOLIO HOLDER AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY
3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

What housing allocation points are made available for Mental Health issues?

 

Answer

 

There are a variety of points ranging from 25-200 that are awarded where your current housing is affecting your health or medical needs.

 

These points are awarded by an independent medical assessor.

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor Oxburgh thanked the Housing Portfolio Holder and asked for an ongoing review for Housing allocation points in respect of mental health.

 

The Depute Housing Portfolio Holder confirmed that there would be a review of Housing Allocation points and that Housing Officers considered mental health issues when allocating housing points.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALASDAIR TOLLEMACHE FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018.

 

QUESTION

 

Please can I have an update on the status of the Langgarth Building and when a decision is going to be made on the future of any road going through the Viewforth site?

 

Answer

 

The planning application for the Viewforth Link Road is expected to be submitted in late July. In advance of this, officers will be engaging with the local communities and business forums in June and July.

 

The Viewforth site (including Langgarth) will be marketed for sale from June. It is anticipated that the determination of the planning application will be concluded prior to offers being finalised on Langgarth.

 

Supplementary Question

 

Councillor Tollemache thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee and asked whether consideration of the site would be brought to full Council.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that the Langgarth site had been included within the wider Local Transport Strategy and would be discussed at a future Environment & Housing Committee.

APPENDIX 2

 

MEETING of the STIRLING COUNCIL to be held in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS, OLD VIEWFORTH, STIRLING on THURSDAY 3 MAY 2018

 

Motion in Terms of Standing Order 16
Information/Advice from Officers

1. Bridge over the River Teith

   Council remains committed to this project and acknowledge the significant economic and regeneration benefits that the Callander Resort project, including the new road infrastructure and new bridge over the River Teith will bring to the rural area. The projects have been
   included as part of the City Region Deal proposals and officers have continued to work with both Governments, partners and investors on this exciting opportunity.

    

2. Standing Order 65(b)

Under Standing Order 116 no alteration of the Council’s Standing Orders will be made:-

 

“(a) without notice being given at one meeting of the Council to be discussed at the following one, which alterations will not come into effect except on a resolution, passed by a majority of the members present and voting

 

or

 

(b) excepting that a report can be submitted to any meeting of Council by the Clerk to the Council, proposing alterations, which alterations will be inherent in the terms of a report or minute to the Council, so as to come into immediate effect on a resolution passed by a majority of the Members present and voting.”

 

At the meeting of Council on 15 March 2018 Cllr Benny gave notice that he intended to bring forward a motion to address the procedure by which matters can be put to the vote, and so potentially deprive members who have proposed/seconded motions from speaking to the same. As such, it is competent for this motion to be considered by full Council.

 

If passed, the effect of the motion is that there would no longer be the ability for a member to propose the procedural motion that “the question is now put to the vote”.

 

An alternative way in which the issue in question could be addressed is by amending Standing Order 65 (b) to provide that such a vote cannot be undertaken until such time as the proposer and seconder of a motion (and any amendments in respect of the same) have had the opportunity to speak at least once to their motion (or amendment).

 

If the motion is passed, it would still, of course, potentially be open to a meeting agreeing that a certain matter should go to a vote, and/or the Provost/Convenor deciding upon the same, even before all procedural rights to speak have been exhausted. It would depend upon the circumstances in question, as to whether such a course of action was considered to be appropriate.