STIRLING COUNCIL‌‌

 

MINUTES of MEETING of STIRLING COUNCIL held in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS,
VIEWFORTH, STIRLING on THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020 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 Alasdair MACPHERSON
Councillor Alastair MAJURY
Councillor Jeremy MCDONALD
Councillor Susan MCGILL
Councillor Ross OXBURGH
Councillor Alasdair TOLLEMACHE
Councillor Jim THOMSON
Councillor Evelyn TWEED

 

In Attendance

 

Carol Beattie, Chief Executive

Annemargaret Black, Chief Officer – Clackmannanshire & Stirling Health & Social Care Partnership/Integrated Joint Board

Jim Boyle, Chief Officer – Finance
Stephen Clark, Chief Officer – Housing

Martin Dalziel, External Communications Team Leader (Communities & Performance)
Pamela Forsyth, HR Advice & Policy Manager (HR & OD)

Lesley Gallagher, Service Manager – Regeneration & Inclusive Growth (Economic Development & Communities)

David Hopper, Public Transport & Sustainable Development Manager
Kristine Johnson, Chief Officer – HR & OD

Kevin Kelman, Chief Operating Officer – People
Drew Leslie, Senior Manager – Infrastructure
David MacKay, Accounting Team Leader (Finance)
Louise McDonald, Committee Officer (Governance)

Isabel McKnight, Chief Operating Officer – Communities & Performance
Tracey Mills, Asset Compliance & Strategy Team Leader (Infrastructure)
Islay Moore, Support Officer, Governance

Stuart Oliver, Senior Manager – Economic Development & Communities
Bruce Reekie, Senior Manager – Environment & Place

Brian Roberts, Chief Operating Officer – Infrastructure & Environment
Karen Swan, Committee Officer (Governance)

Marie Valente, Senior Manager – Children & Families (CSWO)
Julia McAfee, Chief Officer – Governance (Clerk)

 

Also in Attendance

Andrew Bain, Active Stirling
Taylor Ferguson, Grant Thornton

SC270 APOLOGIES‌‌

 

Apologies were submitted on behalf of Councillor Alison Laurie.

 

SC271 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

 

Provost Christine Simpson, Councillor Neil Benny, Councillor Scott Farmer,
Councillor Susan McGill and Councillor Jim Thomson all declared a non-financial interest in Item 10 “Future Property Arrangements for Cambuskenneth Village Hall” as Members of Patrons of Cowanes Hospital Trust and would leave the Council Chambers when determination of the item was taken.‌

 

Councillor Robert Davies declared a non-financial interest in Item 8 “Local Pension Board –Council Representation” as a Director of an Investment company.

 

Councillor Danny Gibson and Councillor Martin Earl declared a non-financial interest in Item E14 “Active Stirling Sustainability Plan” as Directors of the Board and would leave the Council Chambers when determination of the item was taken.

 

SC272 URGENT BUSINESS

 

There were no items of urgent business.

 

SC273 MINUTES

 

The following Minutes were submitted for approval:-

 

1. Special Meeting of Stirling Council – 7 November 2019
   Decision

   The Minutes of the Special Meeting of Stirling Council held on 7 November 2019 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

2. Meeting of Stirling Council – 5 December 2019
   Decision

   The Minutes of the Stirling Council held on 5 December 2019 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

3. Meeting of Appeals Panel – 4 December 2019
   Decision

   The Minutes of the Appeals Panel held on 4 December 2019 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

4. Meeting of Appeals Panel – 19 February 2020
   Decision‌

   The Minutes of the Appeals Panel held on 19 February 2020 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.‌

5. Meeting of Appointments Panel – 3 December 2019
   Decision

   The Minutes of the Appointments Panel on 3 December 2019 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

6. Local Review Body – 19 November 2019Decision

   The Minutes of the Local Review Body held on 19 November 2019 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

7. Meeting of Local Review Body – 7 January 2020Decision

   The Minutes of the Local Review Body held on 7 January 2020 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

8. Parental Appeals Panel – 20 August 2019
   Decision

   The Minutes of the Parental Appeals Panel held on 20 August 2019 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

9. Provosts Panel – 26 September 2019
   Decision

The Minutes of the Provosts Panel held on 26 September 2019 were agreed as
an accurate record of proceedings.

 

SC274 WRITTEN QUESTIONS

 

Nine written questions had been received in terms of Standing Order 30. 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.

SC275 QUESTION TIME

 

In terms of Standing Order 37, 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 and any minutes on the agenda for approval.

 

The following questions were put:-

 

Councillor Douglas Dodds – Minutes of Meeting of Stirling Council on 3 October 2019 (Question on response from Question 7 - Allan Lodge Care Home)

 

Councillor Brisley confirmed that she would provide an update to Councillor Dodds on Allan Lodge affordable housing assessment.

 

Councillor Alistair Berrill – Minutes of Meeting of Stirling Council on 5 December 2019 (Question on response from Question 2 – Foster Carers terms and conditions)

 

Councillor McGill confirmed that further information from CoSLA had been received that suggested that a report on Foster Carers Terms and Conditions should be brought to the next meeting of the Children & Young People Committee.

 

Councillor Ross Oxburgh – Minutes of Meeting of Stirling Council on 5 December 2019 (Question on response from Question 6 – Cycle Routes)

 

Councillor Thomson confirmed that he would update Councillor Oxburgh on Sustrans cycle route plans for Stirling.

 

SC276 DISTRICT OF STIRLING LICENSING BOARD - VACANCY

 

The Chief Officer – Governance noted that further to the attached report, Councillor Tollemache had reconsidered his position and wished to continue as a Member of the District of Stirling Licencing Board.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to withdraw the report, noting Councillor Tollemache’s intention to remain on the District of Stirling Licensing Board.

 

(Reference: Report by Chief Officer – Governance, dated 19 February 2020,
submitted)

 

SC277 LOCAL PENSION BOARD – COUNCIL REPRESENTATION

 

A report submitted by the Chief Officer – Governance noted that Council was
currently represented on the Local Pension Board by Councillor Margaret Brisley. However the quarterly meetings of the Board took place on Thursdays and clashed with Committee or Council meetings that made it very difficult for an Elected Member to attend. The Board was not in a position to change their meeting schedule. The Council could be represented on the Board by an Elected Member or an Officer.

The Pension Board consisted of four Employer representatives and 4 Trade Union representatives. At present, the other three Employer representatives were all Officers within their respective organisations.

 

Following consultation with Councillor Brisley, she would stand down as the Council’s representative on the Local Pension Board and be replaced by an Officer. The Accounting Operations Manager would be the most appropriate person to serve on the Board given his links to the annual pension updates for the accounts and the actuarial valuations.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to note that Councillor Margaret Brisley would stand down as the Council’s representative on the Local Pension Board and agreed that the vacancy would be filled by an Officer, namely, the Accounting Operations Manager for the remaining term of the Council.

 

(Reference: Report by Chief Officer – Governance, dated 18 February 2020
submitted)

 

SC278 CLIMATE EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN - UPDATE

 

The Chief Operating Officer – Infrastructure & Environment submitted a report that confirmed Stirling Council had formally recognised the climate emergency on 3 October 2019. The report laid out the proposed approach for Stirling Council and our partners to develop a comprehensive Climate Emergency Action Plan.

 

The report also updated Council on progress to date, with the developed action plan to be submitted to Council in October 2020 for consideration and adoption.

 

Open engagement would be critical to the development and delivery of the plan, and the first open conversation event was planned for 18 March 2020 at the Albert Halls in Stirling.

 

In response to a number of questions raised by Members, the Public Transport & Sustainable Development Manger confirmed that the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and other community groups would be included within the Sustainable Stirling Partnership, which would allow all bodies to work to drive forward the Sustainable Development agenda for our local area.

 

Along with early collaboration work between Stirling Council and Clackmannanshire Council on an Energy Masterplan, the Public Transport & Sustainable Development Manager confirmed that local schools had been at the forefront with development of a number of Climate Change projects.

 

The Chief Executive confirmed that all Scottish Local Authority Chief Executives were treating the Climate Change Emergency as a top priority. Over the next 10 years, the Council would review different aspects of Climate Change such as technology, culture etc.

 

The Elected Members welcomed the report and praised the Public Transport &
Sustainable Development Manager, his team and all staff across the Council for the exceptional work.

Amendment

 

“Remove 4. appoint an Elected member Climate Champion; and
Replace with 4. Establish a cross party short life Member/Officer Group consisting of one member from each of the 4 political parties.”

 

Proposed by Councillor Jim Thomson and seconded by Councillor Danny Gibson. The Amendment was unanimously agreed without the need for a roll call vote.

The Council also agreed that confirmation of membership nominations would be delegated to the 4 Political Parties Leaders.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to:

1. approve the proposed time scales for the development of the Stirling
   Climate Emergency Plan, and agreed that a report was brought back to
   Council in October 2020 seeking adoption of the plan;

2. note the process proposed to develop the action plan, and also the actions being progressed to reduce carbon emissions as listed in Appendix 2 to the submitted report;

3. endorse the work of the Sustainable Stirling Partnership (SSP) in working to deliver best practice and leadership across the Stirling area, and the need to continue to engage with communities, businesses and partners on an ongoing basis;

4. establish a cross party short life Member/Officer Group consisting of one
   member from each of the 4 political parties, delegating confirmation of
   membership to Political Party Leaders; and

5. the proposal thatan update report on the Climate Emergency Plan would be presented at each cycle of the Environment and Housing Committee from June 2020.

(Reference: Report by Chief Operating Officer – Infrastructure & Environment, dated 24 February 2020, submitted.)

 

Councillors Benny, Farmer, McGill, Thomson and Provost Simpson left the Council Chambers due to Declarations of Interest in the following item.

 

Due to Declaration of Interest by the Provost, the Depute Convener of Stirling
Council, Councillor Graham Houston, took the Chair.

SC279 FUTURE PROPERTY ARRANGEMENTS FOR CAMBUSKENNETH VILLAGE
HALL

 

The Senior Manager – Infrastructure submitted a report at the request of Ward Members to provide clarity in relation to plans for the future use of Cambuskenneth Village Hall, including provision and access to facilities opportunities for the local community, and the provision of a lease for Cambuskenneth Park.

 

The report also detailed the history of the existing lease arrangements and the
existing operating model and noted the previous decisions to approve Revenue
Budget saving options for 2014/15 ENV013 (Reduce Open Space (including Play Areas) asset burden) and ASP012 (Review of the Provision of Public Halls ), at the Stirling Council meeting on 20 February 2014.

 

The report was submitted to a Meeting of Stirling Council for a decision because of the lack of a quorum at the Finance & Economy Committee on 13 February 2020.

 

Following a Member’s question, the Senior Manager – Infrastructure confirmed that the service was reviewing the feasibility of weekend and extended opening hours for the Cambuskenneth Community Hall.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to:

 

1. approve the plan to renew the existing Hall lease for a 5 year period, and delegate authority for the agreement of the lease to the Chief Operating Officer for Infrastructure and Environment in consultation with Convener and Vice-Convener of the Finance and Economy Committee;

    

2. approve the proposal to put a long term lease in place for the Park for a
   minimum period of 25 years with the option to purchase at any time to be included within the agreement, with delegated authority for the agreement of the lease to the Chief Operating Officer for Infrastructure and Environment in consultation with the Convener and Vice-Convener of Finance and Economy Committee; and

    

3. approve the officer recommendation to develop a detailed plan to support the community.

 

(Reference: Report by Senior Manager – Infrastructure, dated 25 February 2020, submitted.)

 

Following conclusion of the above item, Councillors Benny, Farmer, McGill, Thomson and Provost Simpson returned to participate in the remainder of the Meeting.

 

Provost Simpson returned to the Chair as the Provost of Stirling Council.

SC280 POLICE SCOTLAND DIVISIONAL COMMANDER – FORTH VALLEY DIVISION‌‌‌‌

 

A report submitted by the Chief Officer – Governance noted that at the meeting of Stirling Council held on 5 December 2019 the Council asked the Chief Executive to contact the Chief Constable and the Scottish Police Authority to bring to their attention a failure to comply with statute and to consult with the Council in relation to the appointment to the role of Divisional Commander, Forth Valley Division.

 

Council was asked to note the response received from the Chief Constable.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to:

 

1. note the contents of the letter dated 21 January 2020 (Appendix 1 to the
   submitted report);

    

2. note the contents of the response letter dated 7 February 2020 (Appendix 2 to the submitted report); and

    

3. note the contents of the letter to the Scottish Police Authority (Appendix 3 to the submitted report).

 

(Reference: Report by Chief Officer – Governance, dated 14 February 2020,
submitted.)

 

SC281 MOTIONS IN TERMS OF STANDING ORDER 39

 

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. Armed Forces Covenant

    

   Council calls on the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities to set up a policy forum specifically related to developing policies and policy adjustments aimed at supporting serving and former members of the Armed Forces and their families in accordance with the commitments made by all Local Authorities in support of the Armed Forces Covenant.

    

   Signed by Councillor Bryan Flannagan and Councillor Neil Benny

    

   The Motion was unanimously agreed without the need for a roll call vote.

    

2. Water Safety Awareness Events

 

Council congratulates PC William Diamond and SFRS Officer Heather Steel
for their efforts in creating an event that addresses the need for water safety
awareness among young people.

 

In March and May this year separate events involving several partner
organisations will take place for senior Primary and Secondary pupils in the
Trossachs & Teith and Forth & Endrick wards. They are designed to impart
lifesaving information in a practical and engaging manner.

It is due to the efforts of PC Diamond and Community Fire Officer Steel that
these events have been created and organised. Council acknowledges the
amount of work they have undertaken in this regard.

 

Council welcomes the positive engagement of Stirling Council Fisheries and
Education Services.

 

Council supports these becoming established as annual events and efforts
being made to create opportunities for pupils from schools across the Stirling
Council area to benefit from this initiative.

 

Signed by Councillor Martin Earl and Councillor Alistair Berrill‌‌‌

 

The Motion was unanimously agreed without the need for a roll call vote.

 

In terms of Standing Orders 73, the Provost adjourned the meeting at 11.50am for a comfort break.

 

The Meeting was reconvened at 12.10pm, noting All Elected Members, with the exception of Councillor MacPherson who left at the comfort break, previously noted present.

 

Council resolved under Section 50A (4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973
that the public be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on
the grounds that it involved the disclosure of exempt information as defined in
Paragraph 9 and 6 of Part 1 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act
1973.

 

SC282 NATIONAL WALLACE MONUMENT – REVIEW OF LEASE ARRANGEMENTS
AND OPERATING OPTIONS UPDATE

 

The Chief Operating Officer – Communities & Performance submitted a report that presented an update on negotiations around the future management of the National Wallace Monument following the last update to Council on 5 December 2019.

 

Taylor Ferguson from Grant Thornton along with Senior Manager – Economic
Development and Communities responded to a number of questions raised by
Elected Members and noted that Stirling Council had entered into communication with Stirling District Tourism to ascertain various future working proposals.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to:

 

1. note that Stirling District Tourism (SDT) hads advised that they do not wish to be part of an Arms Length External Organisation (ALEO) in partnership with Stirling Council for the future operation of the National Wallace Monument;

    

2. note the alternative proposal from Stirling District Tourism (SDT) which was based on an amended lease structure and partnership agreement;

3. instruct officers to proceed with planning for Stirling Council to take on the operation of the Monument from 28 November 2020, via either direct in-house management or via the establishment of a new ALEO;‌‌

    

4. instruct officers to negotiate with Stirling District Tourism and Cowane’s Trust in relation to the assets owned and controlled by SDT relating to the operation of the National Wallace Monument and Visitor Centre; and

    

5. agree that an update paper would be brought before the June meeting of
   Stirling Council, containing a fuller assessment of the financial implications for the Council of directly managing the Monument.

 

(Reference: Report by Chief Operating Officer - Communities and Performance
dated 25 February 2020, submitted).

 

Councillors Earl and Gibson left the Council Chambers due to Declaration of Interest in the following item.

 

SC283 ACTIVE STIRLING SUSTAINABILITY PLAN

 

The Senior Manager – Economic Development and Communities submitted a report that sought approval for key elements of Active Stirling’s business recovery and sustainability plan. The report outlined the need for investment to enable Active Stirling to recover from its current operating pressures, and build a sustainable and profitable business model.

 

It presented information on the balance of public subsidy and commercial income operating model delivered by Active Stirling; and provided evidence in support of a business case to secure Prudential Borrowing capital investment to extend The Peak. The investment, and a re-profiled management fee, were presented by Active Stirling as essential to return the organisation to financial stability.

 

The proposal had previously been considered at a Special Meeting of Community Planning and Regeneration Committee on 13 February 2020, where it was considered specifically within the context of the Sport, Physical Activity and Healthy Living Strategy.

 

Andrew Bain, Chief Executive of Active Stirling was in attendance at the meeting and subsequently left the Council Chamber prior to any deliberation of decision.

 

Amendment

 

“Add to recommendation:- Council acknowledges the recommendations made by the Community, Planning & Regeneration Committee;

Council recognises that the Stirling Council meeting was not the appropriate forum to progress all of the issues raised;

Requested that the Board of Active Stirling carries out a review of the pricing
structure and equality of access; and

Reserved the right to invoke other mechanisms to ensure such a review was carried out.”

 

Proposed by Councillor Chris Kane and seconded by Councillor Maureen Bennison. The Amendment was unanimously agreed without the need for a roll call vote.

The meeting also noted that the recommendation would be amended to remove “approve Active Stirling’s Sustainability Plan, and that consequently”.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to approve:-

 

1. that Active Stirling’s Management Fee be re-profiled over the next five years, including the re-profiling of Priority Based Budgeting (PBB) Savings; and an increased management fee payment in financial years 2019/20 and 2020/2021 of £0.641M which would be met from Reserves.

    

2. the Prudential Borrowing (PB) of £1.5M sought to construct an extension to the Peak, with loan repayments to be met by a reduction in Active Stirling’s Management Fee from financial year 2022/23 onwards;

    

3. and that Council also:

    

   1. acknowledge the recommendations made by the Community Planning & Regeneration Committee;

       

   2. recognised that the Stirling Council meeting was not the appropriate forum to progress all of the issues raised;

       

   3. requested that the Board of Active Stirling carries out a review of the pricing structure and equality of access; and

       

   4. reserved the right to invoke other mechanisms to ensure such a review was carried out.

 

(Reference: Report by Senior Manager – Economic Development & Communities dated 21 February 2020, submitted).

 

The Provost declared the Meeting closed at 1.10pm.

APPENDIX 1

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR NEIL BENNY FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER OF
ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING COMMITEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE
HELD ON THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

What plans exist to apply for and renew the Green Flag status for our parks in future years?

 

Answer

 

The Green Flag Award recognises and rewards well managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world. Stirling Council currently holds four Green Flag Awards for, Beechwood Park, Stirling; Memorial Park in Bridge of Allan; Ladywell Park, Bannockburn; and Causewayhead Park.

 

At present due to cost implications there are no plans to apply for, or renew, the Green Flag Awards within our parks.

 

We will continue to manage our parks in line with the Green Flag purpose and aims, with no change to existing maintenance regimes or standards. We will also work with our communities should they wish to reapply for Green Flag Award status in the future.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Benny thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his answer and asked whether the Council would inspect the parks and maintain the high standards.

 

The Convener of Environment and Housing Committee confirmed that the parks would be maintained to the high standards.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALISTAIR BERRILL FOR ANSWER BY THE
CONVENER OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE COMMITTEE AT THE FULL
COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

At the last meeting of the Children and Young People Committee it was stated that every opportunity will be taken to close the Council's standalone nurseries. Could the Convener confirm whether this is the Administration's policy?

 

Answer

 

This is not an Administration policy. The focus of the discussion at the Children and Young People Committee was on Croftamie Nursery, where changes were necessary to meet the requirements of early learning and childcare expansion to provide 1140 hours for children.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Berrill thanked the Convener of Children and Young People Committee for her answer and asked for clarity on the proposals for any future education closure proposals.

 

The Convener of Children and Young People Committee confirmed that each school would be considered on individual school merits.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR MARTIN EARL FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER
COMMUNITY, PLANNING & REGENERATION COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL
MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

Can the convener please advise what new events have been supported by this year’s events budget?

 

Answer

 

The Scottish Orienteering 6 day event is a major international multi –day competition that attracts around 3,000 orienteers of all ages from across the world. Support from Stirling Council helped to ensure that this was a highly successful event which showcased Stirling’s stunning scenery as well as offering participants the opportunity to visit the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle. The event was filmed each day with a live stream via the Scottish Orienteering 6 days website.

 

Stirling’s Halloween was one of our key signature events for 2019. A well-attended lantern parade with over 2,000 participants was the focus of the event and incorporated street theatre, music, storytelling and dance. Stirling’s unique venues, streetscape and iconic buildings provided the backdrop for dramatic, creative projections and lighting as well as an atmospheric stage for the activities taking place as the parade as it made its way from the city centre to the top of the town. A complimentary programme of events included tales of Stirling’s past including horrible histories, tales of witchcraft and ghost stories.

 

Central Scotland Documentary Festival (CSDF) brings together a varied and exciting
programme of documentary films from the UK and abroad. Curated and presented by
Macrobert Arts Centre, the Festival offers a full programme of film alongside accompanying
introductions, discussions, and a range of complementary events. Stirling Council new
events fund contributed to a three-day programme of free public screenings in Station
Square, increasing awareness of the festival. These screenings engaged over 3,000
passers-by heading into town from the bus and rail stations, animated the space and
provided a ‘drop in’ creative experience that raised the profile of the wider festival.

 

Cross Country - On Saturday 11 January 2020, the inaugural Run Stirling event took place
in Kings Park and the surrounding area. A total of 2,100 participants took part in a series of
international, inter-district cross-country and youth fun run races across historic Kings Park,
as well as the sold-out mass participation 7km Great Stirling Castle Run.

 

Science Festival - Work has commenced on the development of a new Science Festival for
Stirling which will take place from Thursday 15th to Saturday 17th October 2020, primarily at the Tolbooth and The Engine Shed. The Festival is being programmed by Stirling Council and Dr Debbie McNeil (Director of Glasgow Science Festival), in partnership with Forth Valley College, The Engine Shed, Stirling University, Codebase and Developing the Young Work Force.

 

As a flavour of what’s to come the Tolbooth hosted a very successful Science focused fun day on Saturday 22nd of February with ‘Mark Thomson’s Spectacular Science Show’ selling out and a range of ‘hands on’ free workshops for younger children on offer, including Thaumatrope, Bubble and Hot Air balloon making. For older children there was the opportunity to learn about scratch coding, 3D printing and Virtual Reality.

 

Metafest – This is a one-day festival in March 2020 which will celebrate the technology,
digital, creative industry and cultural sectors. It aims to inspire, educate and entertain
audiences of all ages, through a series of interactive activities, exhibitions and workshops. It will be an accessible, free event which will both engage with Stirling’s urban and rural communities and attract visitors from across the country. It is a collaborative event with multiple event partners. Stirling Council will support a video games installation in Stirling City Centre and event filming and editing to be used to promote Stirling and the event for future years.

 

Tolbooth Projections is an innovative and creative project that has produced a series of
live session videos filmed in the Tolbooth recording studio featuring artists and bands who have developed their skills and early careers through the Tolbooth music development programme.

 

The project aims to help progress the careers of some of our young people whilst celebrating the venue’s impact on the wider Scottish Music scene.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Earl thanked the Convener of Community Planning & Regeneration Committee for his answer and asked for reassurance that measures were in place for investments.

 

The Convener of Community Planning & Regeneration Committee confirmed that a report on Events would be submitted to a future Community Planning & Regeneration Committee.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR JEREMY MCDONALD FOR ANSWER BY THE
CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL
MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

Sustrans are progressing the Doune to Burn of Cambus extension of the National Cycle Route 765. This will then use the Drumloist road to connect cyclists to Callander. This road is in a very bad condition. What plans are there to resurface and add more passing places to this road that will become part of the National Cycle network?

 

Answer

 

Sustrans are currently developing designs and progressing to the planning application stage for the proposed Doune to Burn of Cambus section of this route, which would include Drumloist Road. It should be noted that at this stage Sustrans has not yet secured funding to construct this section of the route.

 

Should construction funding be secured, Sustrans and Stirling Council will examine additional measures required along the Drumloist Road to complete the connection from Burn of Cambus to Callander, including consideration of improvement to passing places.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor McDonald thank the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his answer and asked for more discussion on the above issue in the future.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed he would arrange a meeting with Councillor McDonald to discuss further.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR BRYAN FLANNAGAN FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

Would the convenor confirm how many working hours in the past twelve months have been dedicated to parking enforcement and how many spent on dedicated activities to combat dog fouling?

 

Answer

 

With the introduction of Decriminalised Parking Enforcement powers in May 2017, Stirling Council are required to ensure that we have a workforce to deliver an effective parking management service. In view of this statutory commitment there has been a priority in resource allocation to parking duties. The Safer Communities team does not hold information on the specific enforcement duties, however based on our deployment plans of
staff for the enabling period it was assessed that 65-70% of time was allocated to parking enforcement, with the remainder allocated to environmental enforcement.

 

The present team has 12 full time equivalent enforcement officers, and it has been assessed that there has been 8 officers allocated to parking enforcement duties up to autumn 2019. Service delivery recognises that a minimum of 6 officers are required to support the effective management of parking. Additional staff resources are planned in this area, with a further 4
full time equivalent officers, which will allow for greater flexibility between parking and environmental enforcement including dog fouling patrols. This will allow the service to respond effectively to challenges and continuing the work towards a balanced approach.

 

It is estimated that during 2019, 12,340 hours were allocated to parking enforcement, and 7,400 hours were allocated to environmental enforcement, including dog fouling.

 

Since the early autumn of 2019, the Safer Communities team have moved resources to tackling environmental issues including fly tipping and dog fouling. The number and locations of dog fouling patrols are now recorded, and the latest report to Environment and Housing Committee, identified over 200 patrols in the reporting cycle, and this is likely to increase to
400 in the next reporting period. The enforcement of dog fouling is based upon proactive communication with dog owners, through informal discussions, advice, warnings, with penalty notices issued where these actions fail. A full education programme has also been delivered in our Primary Schools.

 

It is now assessed that there is an equal balance of resource time allocated for both parking and environmental enforcement.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Flannagan thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his answer and asked for clarity on dog fouling.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that there had been a further 400 incidents, noting the behaviour of dog owners needed to be addressed.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR DOUGLAS DODDS FOR ANSWER BY THE LEADER
OF THE COUNCIL AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 5
MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

Is the Leader of the Council satisfied that section 75 negotiations for the Park of Keir development have been transparent and open?

 

Answer

 

In August 2017, the Scottish Ministers issued a Notice of Intention stating that, subject to planning conditions and to the conclusion of a suitable legal agreement, they were minded to grant planning permission for development at Park of Keir, Dunblane.

 

The Scottish Minister’s Notice of Intention outlined the commitments required of the developer, with contributions in line with the Council’s Supplementary Guidance, for affordable housing and education; the limitations on residential development; and accessibility arrangements for the sports facilities.

 

The developer has sought a number of extensions of time to conclude the legal agreement from Scottish Ministers. The latest extension expired on 30th January 2020 and the developer has sought a further extension, the 9th request. Scottish Ministers are considering the request for an extension and have yet to respond.

 

Updates and briefings on progress have been provided to Member’s and the Community Council’s for Dunblane and Bridge of Allan during the period of this negotiation process.

 

When the agreement is concluded, a Paper will be taken to Planning and Regulation Panel to give the opportunity for scrutiny prior to it going to ministers, in line with the agreed motion at Stirling Council on 15 March 2018.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Dodds thanked the Leader of the Council for his answer and asked due to the lack of constituent Elected Members consultation that a non-confidential report be submitted.

 

The Leader of the Council clarified that he was not able to instruct the Council to submit a non-confidential report.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ROSS OXBURGH FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER
OF PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON
THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

What work has been carried out by Council Officers to establish the extent of people trafficking within Commercial Begging in Stirling?

 

Answer

 

Tackling people trafficking requires a multi-agency approach, which is led by Police Scotland and any intelligence in relation to people trafficking is passed to Police Scotland through our Local Authority Liaison Officer (LALO).

 

There is national intelligence in relation to commercial begging which relates this to organised crime, rather than people trafficking, and this can take the form of either traditional on street begging or by fraudulent selling.

 

Officers assess there has been an increase in what is believed to be commercial begging and officers are working with Police Scotland in tackling this sensitive area.

 

The Safer Communities Team make particular effort to engage with those begging to ensure those who are in genuine distress are as safe and well looked after as possible; and are made fully aware of the support services available and where to obtain them. The Team have received good feedback from partners on this work.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Oxburgh thanked the Convener of Public Safety Committee for her answer and asked for a Members Briefing on how the issue was being tackled.

 

The Convener of Public Safety Committee confirmed that a report was being produced for submission to the Public Safety Committee.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALASTAIR MAJURY FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

A No Cold Calling Zone is a nationally recognised designation that provides the opportunity for an area to display signage that makes it clear that doorstep traders are not welcome. What are we doing to ensure these are promoted throughout the Council area?

 

Answer

 

No Cold Calling Zones and Controlled Cold Calling Zones have been set up in some locations in the United Kingdom to deter doorstep traders.

 

A No Cold Calling Zone places a restriction on all forms of cold callers. These zones are open to legal challenge as they may be perceived to prohibit certain religious groups, the charity sector and genuine commercial operators. Additionally there are a number of businesses where the entire business model is centred on approaches of this nature, and to prohibit this would be open to challenge, when no crime has been committed.

 

A Controlled Cold Calling Zone is another option and with these zones engagement can be had with the community to determine which callers are causing nuisance and are not welcome.

 

In order to address the problems caused by ‘Door Step Crime’ locally, the Trading Standards Team has been working on a number of initiatives to prevent financial harm.

 

This work is part of an ongoing programme of measures and includes the use of “True Call” telephone call blocking devices; the Buy with Confidence approved trader scheme which gives a reliable alternative for property repair and home maintenance work; the Think Jessica campaign which helps alert victims, their family and friends to the issues of scam mail; and the Nominated Neighbour scheme where a vulnerable person can nominate a
neighbour for any cold callers to be directed to.

 

Trading Standards officers also provide Toolbox Talks to our own tradespeople and social workers to encourage them to report concerns, and are currently exploring the merits of video doorbell technology for our most vulnerable residents.

 

Trading Standard are not promoting the use of Controlled Calling Zones at this time. The effectiveness of the development of these zones is not clear at this point, with risk around identifying vulnerable residents for illegal activity being a recognised concern. Officers will continue to focus on the specific programmes identified.

 

The Service have leaflets that can be handed out when engaging and they are working with the communications team on a public communications programme for this year.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Majury thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his answer and asked for commitment for appropriate signage in cold calling areas.

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that there was signage for household doors.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALASDAIR TOLLEMACHE FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020.

 

QUESTION

 

I have been approached by many people who have questioned the design of the link road in terms of active travel and environmental impact. The steep incline of the road is of major concern. Please can you describe what consultation there has been with active travel groups and local community groups in evaluating the suitability of the design?

 

Answer

 

In 2018 Council Officers successfully secured Sustrans funding to develop the designs of the Viewforth Link Road & Active Travel Corridor which enabled the planning application to be submitted.

 

In developing these designs, technical officers in both the Council and Sustrans worked together to ensure that all aspects of design, including active travel have been evaluated through design workshops, meetings and discussions. The Council has met Sustrans design standards and requirements.

 

In November 2018 Council Officers held public engagement events regarding the City Centre South proposals, which included the link road and active travel corridor. A wide range of the public engaged in these events, including local road cycle users. The information on display at these events included the latest plan for the Viewforth Link Road and Active Travel Corridor.

 

Local residents raised some questions regarding the gradients at a briefing session to discuss the details, however the essential requirement to work to Sustrans design standards has always been recognised as a project requirement. Officers attended a meeting of Cycle Stirling, and also contacted Stirling Area Access Panel, at the pre-planning application stage, to provide information.

 

In January 2019 the application was formally submitted and all final documents and plans were posted to the planning portal for formal consultation.

 

In addition to the statutory consultation notifications, Officers promoted the consultation through press releases, advertisements, notifications to a range of organisations such as local schools, the BID, and the Community Councils. These notifications advised that the planning application was live and that all relevant information was readily available for all interested parties and statutory consultees to comment on through the formal planning
process. Council Officers also made hard copies of the documentation available in the reception of Teith House.

 

Sustrans funding has been secured for the next phase of the works as officers progress the project to the final detailed technical designs. Officers will promote the next phase of the project in the coming weeks and will invite all interested parties to be involved in future consultation events as the project progresses.

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Tollemache thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his answer and asked for assurance in connection to the steep incline of the road.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that a safety audit had been carried out in connection to cycle routes at the road edge.

Appendix 2

 

MEETING of the STIRLING COUNCIL to be held in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS, OLD VIEWFORTH, STIRLING on THURSDAY 5 MARCH 2020

 

Motion in Terms of Standing Order 39
Information/Advice from Officers

 

1. Armed Forces Covenant

    

   Council calls on the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities to set up a policy forum specifically related to developing policies and policy adjustments aimed at supporting serving and former members of the Armed Forces and their families in accordance with the commitments made by all Local Authorities in support of the Armed Forces Covenant.

    

   Signed by Councillor Bryan Flannagan and Councillor Neil Benny

    

   Answer

    

   Stirling Council, together with all other Local Authorities in Scotland have signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant. Through this, Local Authorities engage with the MOD Firm Base groups established across the Country, who meet as multi-agency partners to discuss Veteran, Serving Personnel, Reservists, Spouses and Families matters. Locally, the Firm
   Base meets twice yearly and agenda items discussed:

    

   • Housing & Transitions;

   • Training & Employment;

   • Children Young People & Families;

   • Health & Wellbeing;

   • Covenant Fund;

   • National Commemoration and other events; and

   • Unit updates.

      

     Furthermore, Stirling Council achieved the Gold Employer Recognition Award last year, for the work undertaken to support Veterans, Reservists, Adult Cadet Volunteers, and Military
     Spouses. An employee Armed Forces network exists to provide colleagues with mutual support.

2. Water Safety Awareness Events

 

Council Congratulates PC William Diamond and SFRS Officer Heather Steel for their efforts in creating an event that addresses the need for water safety awareness among young people.

 

In March and May this year separate events involving several partner organisations will take place for senior Primary and Secondary pupils in the Trossachs & Teith and Forth & Endrick wards. They are designed to impart lifesaving information in a practical and engaging manner.

 

It is due to the efforts of PC Diamond and Community Fire Officer Steel that these events have been created and organised. Council acknowledges the amount of work they have undertaken in this regard.

 

Council welcomes the positive engagement of Stirling Council Fisheries and Education Services.

 

Council supports these becoming established as annual events and efforts being made to create opportunities for pupils from schools across the Stirling Council area to benefit from this initiative.

 

Signed by Councillor Martin Earl and Councillor Alistair Berrill

 

Answer

 

Staff across the learning communities associated with McLaren High School and Balfron High School are thankful to the emergency services for providing a valuable learning opportunity for their children and young people.

 

The children from those Learning Communities were delighted to be involved in Water Safety Events organised jointly by Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire Rescue Service. Headteachers are committed to supporting these events and facilitating children’s participation in the safety learning activities

 

Headteachers provided positive feedback from the event held last year: “A positive hands on experience working with the emergency services.” and “Our children enjoyed the experience last year and were able to discuss how they could keep themselves safe in and around water”.