STIRLING COUNCIL

 

MINUTES of the MEETING of STIRLING COUNCIL held in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS,
VIEWFORTH, STIRLING on THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019 at 10.00 AM

 

Present:

Provost Christine SIMPSON (in the Chair)

 

Councillor Maureen BENNISON
Councillor Neil BENNY
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 (from item SC212)
Councillor Susan MCGILL

Councillor Ross OXBURGH
Councillor Jim THOMSON
Councillor Alasdair TOLLEMACHE
Councillor Evelyn TWEED

 

In Attendance

 

Joyce Allen, Governance
Carol Beattie, Chief Executive

Jim Boyle, Chief Officer - Finance

Lesleyann Burns, Support Officer - Governance
Pamela Forsyth, HR Advice & Policy Manager

Lesley Gallagher, Regeneration and Inclusive Growth Service Manager - Economic Development, Culture & Tourism

Graham Gibson - Media

Kristine Johnson, Chief Officer - HR

Kevin Kelman, Senior Manager - Schools & Learning (CEdO)
Carol Laing, Early Year/Early intervention Support Officer
Mary Love, Committee Officer - Governance (Minute)

Julia McAfee, Chief Governance Officer (Clerk)
David McDougall, Governance Officer - Governance

Isabel McKnight, Chief Officer - Strategic Commissioning & Customer Development
Kevin O’Kane, Audit Manager & Data Protection Officer

Bruce Reekie, Senior Manager - Environment & Place

Alison Ryan, Planning & Commissioning Officer - Strategic Commissioning
Brian Roberts, Senior Manager - Infrastructure

Marie Valente – Senior Manager - Children & Families

Gregor Wightman, Private Sector Housing Manager - Housing Services

Announcements

 

At the beginning of the meeting, the Provost and the Council Leader noted their thanks to all staff involved in the recent flooding, who had worked tirelessly to mitigate the effects of the flooding.

 

Tribute was also paid to Gerry McLaughlin, who had recently passed away. He had been recognised for his involvement with the Cultenhove Opportunities Partnership, was a local Community Champion, and was described as a formidable, passionate campaigner.

 

SC204 APOLOGIES

 

Apologies were submitted on behalf of Councillor Alistair Berrill and Councillor
Alasdair MacPherson.

 

SC205 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

 

There were no declarations of interest.‌

 

SC206 URGENT BUSINESS

 

There were no items of urgent business.

 

SC207 MINUTES

 

The following Minutes were submitted for approval:-

 

1. Meeting of Stirling Council – 2 May 2019
   Decision

   The Minutes of the Special Meeting of Stirling Council held on 2 May 2019 were
   agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

2. Meeting of Local Review Body – 25 April 2019
   Decision

   The Minutes of the Local Review Body held on 28 April 2019 were agreed as an
   accurate record of proceedings.

    

3. Meeting of Local Review Body – 20 May 2019Decision

The Minutes of the Local Review Body held on 25 April 2019 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings, subject to amendment regarding Member
attendance within minutes and Volume of Minutes.

 

“Councillor Graham Houston and Councillor Alastair Majury were present.”

SC208 WRITTEN QUESTIONS‌

 

Eight written questions had been received in terms of Standing Order 44. 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 thereto are included in Appendix 1.

 

SC209 QUESTION TIME

 

In terms of Standing Order 51, 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 the Finance & Economy Committee held on 18 April 2019 (FE132 – Question regarding Debts Outstanding over £10,000)

 

The Leader of the Council confirmed that a meeting, to discuss these matters would be arranged to include the Chief Officer - Governance and appropriate Members,

 

Councillor Martin Earl – Minutes of Meeting of the Environmental & Housing Committee held on 11 April 2019 (EH121 – Question regarding Safer Communities Enforcement Update)

 

The Convener of the Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that a report on the Byelaws Policy would likely be presented at either the next Environment & Housing Committee, or the following meeting.

 

Councillor Alasdair Tollemache – Minutes of Meeting of the Environmental &
Housing Committee held on 11 April 2019 (EH124 – Question regarding Street
Lighting Investment Programme 2014/15 – 2018-19)

 

The Convener of the Environment & Housing Committee advised that the painting of streetlight columns was an operational matter and noted that he would ask the relevant officer for a progress update.

 

SC210 PARENTAL APPEALS PANEL – APPOINTMENT OF PARENT
REPRESENTATIVES AND EDUCATION EXPERIENCED REPRESENTATIVES

 

The report sought delegated authority to be given to the Chief Officer - Governance to manage the recruitment and application process and to appoint new parent and educational experienced representatives to the Parental Appeals Panel, in consultation with the Chief Officer - Education and the Convener and Vice Convener of the Children & Young People Committee.

 

Full Council would continue to appoint Elected Members to the Panel. There were currently 4 Elected Members appointed to the pool for this Panel. The report also asked Council to consider whether any additional Elected Members wished to join this pool and to appoint additional Elected Members who wished to do so.

 

The Governance Officer, Democratic Services introduced the report and responded to Members’ questions and points of clarification.

 

In response to a question from Members regarding the function of the Citizenship Appointments Panel, the Governance Officer noted that the Panel had indicated that they did not have the appropriate expertise for the Parental Appeals Panel and would rather the Chief Officer – Governance took over this process.

 

The Governance Officer confirmed that the Citizenship Appointments Panel had met twice in the last year.

 

Following the request for additional Members to join the pool of Members who sit on the Parental Appeals Panel, Councillor Jim Thomson and Councillor Chris Kane informed Council that they would like to join the Panel and it was subsequently agreed to appoint both Members to the Parental Appeals Panel.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed to:-

 

1. delegate authority to the Chief Officer - Governance, to manage the recruitment and application process and to appoint new parent representatives and new education experienced representatives to sit on the Parental Appeals Panel, in consultation with the Chief Officer – Education and the Convener and Vice- Convener of the Children & Young People Committee;

2. delegate authority to the Chief Officer - Governance to amend the Standing Orders and Scheme of Delegation as appropriate to reflect this decision, to remove this function from the remit of the Citizenship Appointments Panel and full Council; and‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌

3. consider whether any additional Elected Members wished to join the pool of Members who sit on the Parental Appeals Panel and to appoint any Elected Members who expressed such an interest. Appoint Councillor Chris Kane and Councillor Jim Thomson to the pool of Members who sit on the Parental Appeals Panel.

(Reference: Report by Chief Officer - Governance, dated 17 June 2019, submitted)

 

SC211 REVIEW OF PARLIAMENTARY CONSTITUENCY POLLING DISTRICTS AND PLACES

 

The Electoral Administration Act 2006 initially introduced a duty on all local
authorities to review their UK Parliamentary polling districts and polling places at least once every four years, with the first such review to be completed by the end of 2007.

 

The Electoral Registration and Administration Act 2013 introduced a change to the timing of compulsory reviews of UK parliamentary polling districts and polling places, with subsequent reviews to be completed within the period of 16 months of 1 October every fifth year after 1 October 2013. As such, a local review was required to be completed by 31 January 2020.

The review of polling districts and polling places had been undertaken in accordance with guidance issued by the Electoral Commission. Council was invited to approve the proposed polling districts and polling places detailed in Appendix 1 to the report and to agree a preferred polling place for polling district SS620 following consideration of the information set out in Appendix 5 to the report.

 

It was important to note that the Electoral Registration Office required confirmation of all arrangements for polling districts and polling places as agreed by Council, as soon as possible in advance of the preparation for the publication of the new electoral register on 1 December 2019. Council was therefore urged to agree all arrangements at this meeting, to ensure they met with the Electoral Registration Office timescale requirements.

 

The Governance Officer introduced the report and conveyed his thanks to the
Compliance Team Leader for carrying out inspections and providing a report under tight timescales.

 

Members had noted concerns at the Council Meeting in May 2019 in relation to the cobbled access/driveway at the Beechwood Scout Centre. It was noted that there were no resolutions to these concerns yet, however, it was recommended to continue using Beechwood Scout Hall as the polling place for polling district SS515 at present, as this was noted to be the only viable venue for a polling place for this particular polling district. Officers would continue to review the situation until a solution could be found.

 

Members thanked the Governance Officer and Compliance Team Leader for their hard work, particularly in relation to polling district SS620, currently St Mary’s RC Primary School. It was also noted that previous concerns had been raised regarding the narrow road approaching St Marys RC Primary School. In response to a Member’s question whether a traffic management condition could be included within the recommendations, should St Marys continue to be a polling place, the Chief Officer - Governance noted that it was the responsibility of the Returning Officer to ensure that all health and safety matters were considered in relation to polling places.

 

It was agreed that officers would seek to implement the recommendation of the Health & Safety Audit for the use of St Mary’s RC Primary School as a polling place.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed:-

 

1. to approve the proposed polling districts and designated polling places for the Stirling Constituency detailed in Appendix 1 to the report, with effect from the publication of the new electoral register on 1 December 2019;

2. that St Mary’s RC Primary School continue as the designated polling place for polling district SS620;

3. that dependent on the decision taken by the UK Parliament in relation to the Boundary Commission proposals, the 4 provisional additional polling districts as detailed in Appendix 2 to the report would subsequently either:-

   1. be absorbed into polling district SS505 with all electors voting in the Holy Trinity Church Hall, if the Boundary Commission proposals were approved;

      or

   2. revert back into current polling districts SS510 and SS515, with
      electors continuing to vote in current polling places (Cambusbarron
      Community Centre and Beechwood Scout Centre respectively) if the Boundary Commission proposals were not approved;

       

4. to note that at the time of the last review of polling districts and polling places in December 2013, authority was delegated to the Chief Executive to make alterations to polling places in the event that a building designated as a polling place unexpectedly became unavailable and that this delegated authority remained in place; and

    

5. to extend the delegated authority to the Chief Executive to allow her to
   implement any/all of the proposed changes as set out in Appendix 1 to the report, as appropriate, in the event that an unscheduled electoral event takes place before the arrangements formally come into effect with the publication of the register on 1 December 2019.‌

 

(Reference: Report by Chief Officer - Governance, dated 17 June 2019 submitted) Councillor Jeremy McDonald joined the meeting at this point in the proceedings.

SC212 AUDIT COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2018-19

 

The report presented the Audit Committee Annual Report 2018-19 for consideration by the Council. The Audit Committee approved the report for submission to Council at its meeting on 28 May 2019.

 

The Audit Committee Annual Report was timed to support the Council’s
consideration of the draft Annual Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2019, which were submitted as a separate agenda item at this meeting.

 

Preparation of an Annual Report enabled the Audit Committee to meet best practice guidance set out in ‘Audit Committees: Practical Guidance for Local Authorities and Police’ issued by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountancy (CIPFA). This included the Audit Committee accounting for its work to the Council as ‘those charged with governance’, and provided an assessment, at least annually, of its performance in discharging its role and functions, as set out in the Scheme of Delegation.

 

The Leader of the Council and the Convener of the Audit Committee conveyed
thanks to the Audit Manager, his team of staff, Councillors Lambie, Majury, Lawrie, Earl and Tollemache for their diligent work undertaken and positive reports produced.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to endorse the Audit Committee Annual Report 2018-19.
(Reference: Report by Chief Officer – Governance, dated 18 June 2019, submitted.)

SC213 AUDIT SCOTLAND BEST VALUE ASSURANCE REPORT AND IMPROVEMENTPLAN‌‌

 

The purpose of the report was to present the improvement action plan that had been developed to implement the recommendations presented in the Stirling Council Best Value Assurance Report (BVAR) prepared by Audit Scotland, April 2019.

 

The Chief Executive introduced the report and provided Members with an overview of the review carried out by Audit Scotland in October/November 2018.

 

In response to a question from Members regarding how Council could improve, the Chief Executive replied that sessions could be tailored more specifically to officers, to ensure there was a good identification of what was required.

 

The Chief Officer - Governance met with Organisational Development to look at reviewing practices in place and added that there were numerous courses available and possibly the opportunity for tailored courses. It was noted that at present this type of information was not being recorded and acknowledged that a process to capture the relevant details would be explored.

 

In response to a question regarding recommendations for Stirling Council to take forward, the Chief Executive noted that all locality action plans, which required approval, would be completed by December this year and review of reporting structures had already been undertaken and had gone back to the Community Planning Partnership for review.

 

The Leader of the Council thanked the Chief Executive, Senior Management and relevant officers involved with the work produced in the action plan and looked forward to fulfilling the recommendations listed and driving Council forward.

 

The Leader of the Opposition noted that the purpose of the report was to provide evidence to Members and the public, to improve community engagement and he looked forward to seeing the progress made on this.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed:

 

1. to note the ten recommendations presented in the Stirling Council Best Value Assurance Report (BVAR) prepared by Audit Scotland, April 2019. The recommendations were provided at section 2.2 of the report and the full BVAR was included as Appendix 1 to the report;

2. to note the improvement action plan that has been developed to implement the recommendations in the Stirling Council BVAR, which was included as Appendix 2 to the report; and

3. to note that 6-monthly updates on the progress made towards achievement of the improvement actions would be provided to future meetings of Stirling Council

 

(Reference: Report by Chief Officer, Strategic Commissioning & Customer
Development dated 18 June 2019, submitted)

SC214 STIRLING COUNCIL ORGANISATIONAL REVIEW – STRUCTURE‌‌

 

The purpose of the report was to set out for Members the Chief Executive’s
proposals for a revised senior management structure.

 

The Chief Officer - Governance apologised to Members and the Chief Executive and noted that paragraph 2.11 in the report should have been removed prior to distribution, and therefore asked Members to disregard this section.

 

The Chief Executive conveyed thanks to all members of staff involved in the flooding event earlier in the week in Stirling and noted that actions such as this were down to good people and strong leadership.

 

The Chief Executive outlined the main changes to the current structure, as detailed in the revised proposals for the senior management structure and noted that the three new chief operational roles would report directly to the Chief Executive.

 

In response to a question from a Member in relation to the timescale for the new structure to be put in place, the Chief Executive noted that the proposed structure had already been operating for a temporary period and appeared to be working well and that there was no intention of changing the top level of the structure.

 

Discussion took place around recommendation 2 in the report regarding the
recruitment process being described as competitive. It was noted that recruitment was offered out to a ring-fenced group of people internally. It was also highlighted that it was important for any proposal to be in accordance with the Organisational Change Policy.

 

Motion

 

“Delete recommendation 2 and replace with the following:-

to note that an Appointments Panel of Elected Members be convened for this
purpose.”

 

Moved by Councillor Danny Gibson, seconded by Councillor Scott Farmer.
The Motion was unanimously agreed without the need for a vote.

Decision

Council agreed to:

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

2. note that an Appointments Panel of Elected Members be convened for this purpose;

3. 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 18 June 2019, submitted)

 

SC215 STIRLING COUNCIL PRE-LOVED SCHOOL CLOTHES ONLINE PLATFORM

 

The purpose of the report was to propose to Council that £8,000 from the universal sanitary provision earmarked budget monies be used to support the delivery of a Stirling Council pre-loved school clothes online platform, which would be a free service available to all families.

 

Discussion took place regarding small businesses in the city that had closed due to financial pressure and it was noted that while the report was welcomed, it was important that this platform would be available only for people who could not afford to purchase school clothing. Prom clothing would also be welcomed as part of the platform.

 

Members conveyed congratulations to staff involved in this initiative.

 

Motion

 

“That Council agrees to spend the remainder of the fund (£22,000) delegating authority to do so to the Children and Young People Committee. The money should be spent on schemes to support disadvantaged young people. Officers should work with staff from across the school estate and other youth services staff to identify areas of spend and report to the next meeting of the Children and Young People Committee.”

 

Moved by Councillor Neil Benny, seconded by Councillor Martin Earl.

 

Decision

 

The Council unanimously agreed amended recommendation to agree to spend the remainder of the fund (£22,000) delegating authority to do so to the Children and Young People Committee. The money should be spent on schemes to support disadvantaged young people. Officers should work with staff from across the school estate and other youth services staff to identify areas of spend and report to the next meeting of the Children and Young People Committee.

 

(Reference: Report by Senior Manager – Schools & Learning (CEdO) dated 18 June
2019, submitted)

 

SC216 STIRLING & CLACKMANNANSHIRE CITY REGION DEAL – PROGRAMME
UPDATE

 

The report provided Council with an update on progress being made to develop business cases and to develop plans to sign a City Region Deal, in line with the Heads of Terms previously agreed between the Scottish and UK Governments and the City Region Deal Partners (Stirling Council, Clackmannanshire Council and University of Stirling).

The purpose of the report was to provide Members with an update in relation to the City Region Deal. The documents, which would be subject to negotiation, were outlined and it was noted that these required to be agreed by Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils and Stirling University, as the City Region Deal Partners and ultimate recipients of the project. It was anticipated that these documents would be agreed by the end of August 2019, in order to proceed.

 

In response to a Member’s question regarding programme timetable, the Chief Executive noted that as part of the negotiations, it was acknowledged that the Scottish Government was keen to provide funding to enable projects and initiatives to proceed. However, Council would make no commitment until assurance was given regarding receipt of the monies in August this year.‌‌‌

 

The City Regional Deal would be recognised nationally as well as regionally,
however at present, all documentation would remain confidential until the deal had been signed. The introduction of a dedicated website would also take place at this stage.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to note the City Region Deal Programme Update.

 

(Reference: Report by Senior Manager Delivery of City Region Deal dated 18 June 2019, submitted)

 

SC217 PUBLIC SECTOR EQUALITY DUTY: MAINSTREAMING AND OUTCOMES REPORTS 2019

 

Under the Public Sector Equality Duty, the Council was required to publish an update report confirming how equality considerations were mainstreamed into our operational activities, updated employee information including pay gap information, and confirm progress achieved in delivering our equality outcomes agreed for 2017- 21.

 

The report presented the required information for consideration and identified
proposed future action to ensure that the Council continued to meet its commitment to equality for its citizens and employees and meet its statutory equality obligations.

 

The Service Manager, Regeneration and Inclusive Growth introduced the report and responded to questions from Members.

 

In response to a Member’s question regarding transgender young people, it was noted that regular equalities training was undertaken by teaching staff and continued support was available for transgender young people. A few schools had already introduced gender-neutral toilets.

 

Discussion took place around disabled employees and it was noted that it was the decision of each employee whether they wished to declare their protected
characteristics, which they could update at any given time.

 

Discussion then took place regarding community engagement and it was confirmed that there were no current plans to reintroduce area forums.

Decision

 

The Council agreed to:

 

1. approve the Mainstreaming Report 2019 - Service Delivery (Appendix 1);

2. approve the Mainstreaming Report 2019 - Employment (Appendix 2);‌‌‌‌

3. approve the Outcomes Progress Report 2019 (Appendix 3);

4. note the significant progress achieved in delivering the Council’s equality
   outcomes together with those areas where additional action was required; and

5. instruct officers to publish the Mainstreaming Report and the Outcomes Progress Report as required by the Public Sector Equality Duty.

 

(Reference: Chief Officer, Strategic Commissioning & Customer Development dated 17 June 2019, submitted.)

 

SC218 LOCAL CHILD POVERTY ACTION REPORT

 

The report to Stirling Council presented the first Local Child Poverty Action Report for Stirling.

 

This Child Poverty Action Report articulated for the first time, the range of activity that directly impacted upon those families experiencing poverty. It provided a framework for working alongside Community Planning Partners, taking forward actions and identifying areas for improvement.

 

This first report and the actions template appended (Appendix 1) covered the period from 1 April 2018 - 31 March 2019 and described activities undertaken during that period. It also considered further actions towards meeting the Scottish Government’s targets to eradicate child poverty in Scotland between now and 2030. Further annual reports would provide an evolving series of updates and actions.

 

The report was initially submitted to the meeting of Community Planning &
Regeneration Committee on 30 May 2019.

 

The Service Manager, Regeneration and Inclusive Growth introduced the report and responded to questions from Members.

 

The Convener of the Community Planning & Regeneration Committee noted that it was good to receive this endorsement.

 

Work was being carried out with the NHS at present around the Money Matters in Pregnancy Project and it was noted that this included pregnant women from the most deprived areas.

Decision

 

Council agreed to:-

1. endorse the Local Child Poverty Action Report for Stirling;

2. note the assessment of child poverty activity prepared by NHS Forth Valley that appeared as Appendix 2 of the report; and‌‌

3. agree to publication of this report by 30 June 2019.

 

(Reference: Report by Senior Manager, Economic Development, Culture & Tourism dated 18 June 2019 submitted).

 

SC219 STIRLING COUNCIL DRAFT ACCOUNTS 2018/19

 

The report outlined the key features of the financial position displayed in the 2018/19 draft accounts, which incorporated a brief overview of the General Fund and HRA revenue and capital outturn positions.

 

The report also asked the Council to approve the updating of the 2019/20 General Services Capital Programme budget to reflect additional carry forward commitments and virements.

 

The Chief Officer – Finance introduced the report and noted that a further report would be brought back to Council in October this year, which would provide information from the Independent Auditor. It was also noted that the long-term viability of the Falkirk Pension Fund had increased.

 

Councillor Margaret Brisley conveyed her thanks to the Finance Team for all the hard work detailed in the report.

 

Decision

 

Council agreed to:‌‌‌

 

1. consider and note the General Fund and HRA revenue and capital outturn positions as at 31 March 2019;

2. consider and note the position in terms of the Council’s share of the net pension liability of the Local Government Pension Scheme; and

3. approve the updating of the 2019/20 General Services Capital Programme budget to reflect additional carry forward commitments and virements of £3.743M as set out in Appendix 2.

(Reference: Chief Finance Officer, 18 June 2019 submitted)

 

SC220 COMMON GOOD FUNDS & CHARITABLE TRUSTS DRAFT ACCOUNTS 2018/19

 

The report asked the Council to note the draft accounts in respect of the Common Good Funds and Charitable Trusts for the year ended 31 March 2019, and to consider and note progress to date on the review of the small charitable trusts.

The Chief Officer – Finance introduced the report and responded to questions from Members.

 

Decision‌‌

 

Council agreed to:

1. note the draft accounts in respect of the Common Good Funds and Charitable Trusts for the year ended 31 March 2019, and

2. consider and note progress to-date on the review of the small charitable trusts. (Reference: Report by Chief Finance Officer dated 18 June 2019, submitted)

 

SC221 GENERAL FUND 10 YEAR FINANCIAL OUTLOOK – JUNE 2019 INTERIM
UPDATE

 

At the meeting of 6 December 2018, the Council received a report that set out a financial strategy outlook for the General Fund, which covered the majority of the services that the Council provided. That report set out a longer-term outlook, specifically 10 years, and a commitment was given to bring this as a regular update to the Council. The report now set out the latest update on the key aspects of the financial strategy.

 

Although many of the assumptions could not be made with any degree of certainty, due to all of the many external influences that affected them, it was still important that the Council had a sense of how each of the assumptions might move in future, and how, collectively, they would form a picture of what a longer-term outlook may look like.

 

The update would also build on the details set out in the formal budget report that was considered and approved at the Special Meeting of Council of 21 February 2019.

 

The report reaffirmed that, even in the early years of the ten-year outlook, it was almost certain that significant financial budget reductions would have to be made in order to set balanced budgets.

 

The Chief Officer – Finance introduced the report and noted that a revised
assumption on the Scottish Government revenue grant showed a 2.5% cash
reduction for financial year 2021/22 but added that this may be reduced to 1.5% and advised that each 1% reduction equated to a deficit of £1.6m for the Council. The Scottish Government had now confirmed funding of a government grant, and it was noted that the grant accounted for around 80% of the Council’s revenue funding.

 

A number of discussions had taken place in relation to pay awards for teacher
salariesand it was noted that no written confirmation had been received to match the costs shown for Council.

 

In summary, the future period would be a very challenging time for Council and it was acknowledged that although there were many assumptions within the report, it was predicted that due to austerity measures, the local impact of government spending would increase.

The Chief Officer – Finance responded to various questions from Members.

 

Decision‌

 

The Council agreed to:

1. note the contents of this update report; and

2. note that further updates would be brought to future meetings of the Council as the longer-term outlook develops.

   (Reference: Report by Chief Officer - Finance dated 19 June 2019, submitted)

    

   SC222 UPDATE ON DOMESTIC ABUSE TRAINING 2018/19

    

   The purpose of the report was to update Council on the training undertaken, in 2018/19, on the Domestic Abuse and Multi Agency Risk Assessment Centre (MARAC), which was funded by Growth Monies. The Domestic Abuse training was in preparation for new legislation: The Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018.

    

   In response to a Member’s question regarding lack of training participation from Education Services, it was noted that a Violence and Prevention Programme was in place, part of which included domestic violence training. It was also noted that training could be accessed in other key ways.

    

   In response to a question from a Member as to whether there was a programme on domestic control, the Planning & Commissioning Officer agreed to e-mail relevant training documents on coercive control to the Member.

    

   The Convener of the Public Safety Committee conveyed thanks to officers for all their hard work undertaken and noted that as Elected Members, there was the need to lead by example, to eradicate domestic violence and looked forward to involvement from all Members in training.

    

   Decision

    

   Council agreed to note the training undertaken.

    

   (Reference: Report by Senior Manager Economic Development, Culture & Tourism dated 18 June 2019, submitted)

    

   In accordance with Standing Order 42 Council agreed to take a 10 minute comfort break at 12.25 pm then continue with remaining business on the agenda.

    

   The Meeting reconvened at 12.35 pm with all Members, previously noted, present.

    

   SC223 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. Instrumental Music Tuition

       

      In terms of Standing Order 81 Council unanimously agreed to consider the Motion, which sought to alter a decision of Council taken within the previous 6 months.

       

      Motion

       

      “Council recognises the importance of instrumental music tuition to the children and young people of Stirling.

       

      Stirling Council will provide free instrumental music tuition to those children and young people wishing to learn a musical instrument, who qualify for free school meals and clothing and footwear grant, from the beginning of term in August 2019, or as soon after as practicable.

       

      Council further instructs Stirling Council officers to investigate ways to widen the offer of instrumental music tuition.”

       

      Signed by Councillor Susan McGill and Councillor Margaret Brisley.
      This was unanimously approved without the need for a roll call vote.

       

   2. Financial Surplus

       

      In terms of Standing Order 81 a 2/3 majority was not achieved to allow the Motion, which sought to alter a decision of Council taken with the previous 6 months to be considered.

       

   3. Park of Keir

       

      Council notes that public funding has been sought to support the development at Park of Keir.

       

      Council believes that no public money should be made available for that purpose.

       

      Council resolves to allow no funding from any Council controlled funds to support the development.

       

      Council resolves to mandate the Council Leader to write to the First Minister urging that no Scottish Government controlled funds be used to support development on the Park of Keir site.

       

      Signed by Councillor Douglas Dodds and Councillor Martin Earl.

       

      Amendment

       

      Replace from “Council resolves to mandate” with:-

       

      “whilst acknowledging that final agreement has not yet been reached (and may not be reached) in respect of the ongoing planning process, Council calls for the Council Leader, Depute Leader, and Leader of the Opposition to jointly write to both the first Minister and Prime Minister, urging that no Government controlled or influenced funds be used to support development on the Park of Keir site. Further, that letters to the same effect be sent to Tennis Scotland and the Lawn Tennis Association.

       

      Council continues to recognise the undeniable sporting success and public impact of the Murray family on tennis locally, nationally and internationally and will always seek to work in partnership to further develop mutually appropriate opportunities in our local authority area.”

       

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

       

      The Amendment was unanimously approved without the need for a roll call vote.

       

   4. St Mary’s Episcopal Primary School
      Motion

      “Council notes the long and unique 160-year history of St Mary’s Episcopal Primary School in Dunblane, which has previously been voted “Scotland’s best small primary school”.

       

      Council notes that the pupil numbers are usually greater than 75 and that the school enjoys high attainment levels and is supported by an active and enthusiastic parent community.

       

      Council further notes the current intention to reduce the number of classes from four to three from the next academic year.

       

      Council agrees that St Mary’s Episcopal Primary School is a valued part of Stirling’s Educational Community.

       

      Council resolves to work with the parent council and staff at the school to promote higher school rolls to secure its future. A report on the future of St Mary’s school to be brought to the next meeting of the Children and Young People Committee.

       

      Council instructs the relevant officers to urgently consult the parent council on this issue. The decision along with the officer rationale in concert with current guidance and operating practice should be circulated to all members of the Council and to the parents of the school.”

       

      Moved by Councillor Bryan Flannagan, seconded by Councillor Alastair Majury.

       

      Amendment

       

      (To replace the Motion in its entirety).

       

      “Council recognises how emotive the education of Stirling’s children and young people is to all involved; not least parents.

       

      Council also recognises the responsibility to provide high quality teaching and learning opportunities to all the children and young people in Stirling schools.

       

      Council has and will continue to provide high quality support and advice to all school communities, dealing with each school’s specific circumstances, in particular small and rural schools facing decline in school roll; highlighting that all policies regarding operational issues are available on Stirling Council’s website.”

       

      Moved by Councillor Susan McGill, seconded by Councillor Margaret Brisley. On the roll being called, the Members present voted as follows:-

      For the Amendment (14) Councillor Maureen Bennison

      Councillor Margaret Brisley
      Councillor Robert Davies
      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
      Councillor Evelyn Tweed

       

      Against the Amendment (7) Councillor Neil Benny

      Councillor Douglas Dodds
      Councillor Martin Earl
      Councillor Bryan Flannagan
      Councillor Alastair Majury
      Councillor Jeremy McDonald
      Councillor Ross Oxburgh

      The Amendment was carried by 14 votes to 7 and became the Substantive Motion.
      For the Substantive Motion (14) Councillor Maureen Bennison

      Councillor Margaret Brisley

      Councillor Robert Davies
      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
      Councillor Evelyn Tweed

       

      Against the Substantive Motion (7) Councillor Neil Benny

      Councillor Douglas Dodds
      Councillor Martin Earl
      Councillor Bryan Flannagan
      Councillor Alastair Majury
      Councillor Jeremy McDonald
      Councillor Ross Oxburgh

      Decision

       

      The Substantive Motion was carried by 14 votes to 7 and accordingly, Council agreed to recognise how emotive the education of Stirling’s children and young people was to all involved; not least parents.

       

      Council also recognised the responsibility to provide high quality teaching and learning opportunities to all the children and young people in Stirling schools.

       

      Council had and would continue to provide high quality support and advice to all school communities, dealing with each school’s specific circumstances, in particular small and rural schools facing decline in school roll; highlighting that all policies regarding operational issues were available on Stirling Council’s website.

       

   5. Grass Cutting
      Motion

“Council notes that the presence of cut grass uncollected continues to be a matter of significant complaint by residents.

 

Council believes that grass on key routes and on certain playing fields should be collected after it is cut to ensure amenity and that while understanding current financial constraints, wants to see costs and options brought forward for the future.

 

Council instructs officers to bring forward a paper to the next meeting of the
Environment and Housing Committee outlining potential changes to the policy on the collection of cut grass.”

 

Moved by Councillor Ross Oxburgh, seconded by Councillor Jeremy McDonald.

 

Motion

 

Councillor Jim Thomson, seconded by Councillor Danny Gibson, moved the Direct Negative.

On the roll being called, the Members present voted as follows:-
For the Motion (7) Councillor Neil Benny

Councillor Douglas Dodds

Councillor Martine Earl
Councillor Bryan Flannagan
Councillor Alastair Majury
Councillor Jeremy McDonald
Councillor Ross Oxburgh

 

Against the Motion (14) Councillor Maureen Bennison
Councillor Margaret Brisley
Councillor Robert Davies
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
Councillor Evelyn Tweed

 

The Motion fell by 14 votes to 7 and accordingly, Council resolved not carry the motion.

As such, Council did not note that the presence of cut grass uncollected continued to be a matter of significant complaint by residents.

Council did not believe that grass on key routes and on certain playing fields should be collected after it was cut to ensure amenity and that while understanding current financial constraints, did not want to see costs and options brought forward for the future.

 

The Chair declared the Meeting finished at 1.25 pm.

Appendix 1

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ROBERT DAVIES FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER
OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE
HELD ON THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019.

 

Question

 

You are aware of the decision by the First Division of the Inner House of the Court of Session in relation to the appeal by Gladman Developments Limited against The Scottish Ministers to allow the appeal and quash the decision.

There is only one key issue in the appeal, namely whether there was a shortfall in the five years’ effective land supply, which might justify approval of the proposed housing development. The dispute relates to the methodology for assessing this.

As the Councillor is aware the natural death rate in this local authority area exceeds the natural birth rate and therefore population growth, and hence economic growth, relies on attracting new people to the area.

Does he agree with me that a key factor in enticing people to live here is an adequate supply of high quality, executive family houses and that therefore the Council should adopt the methodology used in table 9a of the report, which does not takes previous shortfalls in completions into account when making the calculation, as its standard procedure?

 

Answer

 

In terms of calculating housing need, I would point out that the Council is currently undertaking a new Housing Need and Demand Assessment, which will identify housing need for the Stirling area over the next 10 years. This takes into account population projections and current housing stock in both the public and private sector. The Current HNDA (2011) and update in 2016, informed the housing supply target as set out in the Stirling Local Development Plan 2018, which itself is under constant review.

I personally see no need to take account of previous shortfalls.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Davies thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his response and noted that he did not agree that the shortfall should be ignored in the housing supply calculations. Moreover, he hoped that the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee would agree and that the new target would include an element of “catch-up”, so that the shortfall could be overcome in time, to ensure an adequate supply of housing in the future.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee replied that he did not believe there was a shortfall and noted that a report could be presented to Council for clarity, if required.

QUESTION 2

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALASTAIR MAJURY FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER
OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE
HELD ON THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019.

 

Question

 

Can the convener confirm what progress is being made with respect to creating an inclusive and fully accessible taxi bay in Dunblane?

Answer

 

Council Officers are aware of the issues that have been raised by the Stirling Area Access Panel (SAAP) and the local community. A meeting has been organised in July between Council Officers, Network Rail and SAAP to consider the issue in greater detail and explore options to provide a solution.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Majury thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his response and asked the date the meeting was scheduled to take place.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee replied that he was unsure, however, would endeavour to clarify the date and inform Councillor Majury.

QUESTION 3

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR DOUGLAS DODDS FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF
FINANCE & ECONOMY COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD
ON THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019.

 

Question

 

Can the Convener advise the amount charged annually in fees by the Council to the Stirling & Bridge of Allan Round Table that relate to the application for the firework display at Strathallan Park in Bridge of Allan?

 

Answer

 

The fee charged by Licensing for 2018 regarding the Temporary Public Entertainment Licence for the event was £181.00 and the fee for 2019 will be £186.00.

 

You should speak with Angela McGibbon regarding any charges, which may be incurred, in relation to suspension of parking around the site and for the road cones to be laid out and collected.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Dodds thanked the Convener of Finance & Economy Committee for his response and advised that he would discuss the matter further with the Trafic Management Officer, as he had a further query regarding payment of the fees.

 

The Convener of Finance & Economy replied that she had undertook to provide the information requested and would discuss this further with Councillor Dodds outwith the meeting.

QUESTION 4

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR BRYAN FLANNAGAN FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER
OF COMMUNTY PLANNING & REGENERATION COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019.

 

Question

 

Would the Convener provide an update on the latest efforts to ensure a Stirling Marathon takes place in 2020?

 

Answer

 

Since the Great Run Company took the decision to cease staging the Stirling Marathon from 2020 onwards, there has been proactive contact from event companies looking to fill that gap. This is a positive and pleasing recognition of Stirling’s credentials as a top class location for events.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Bryan Flannagan thanked the Convener of Community Planning & Regeneration Committee for his response. He then enquired whether Stirling Council would hold the Marathon on its own should no other companies wish to become involved.

 

The Convener of Community Planning & Regeneration Committee replied that a number of discussions had taken place, however, due to commercial sensitivity; he noted that he did not wish to discuss this matter further at this stage.

QUESTION 5

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR MARTIN EARL FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019.

 

Question

 

Will the convener please confirm that the toilet and security issues at Callander Primary School will be addressed within the current financial year?

 

Answer

 

In 2018/19 financial year, a new CCTV and door entry system was installed, which allows staff to view and speak via a visual link to a member of the public or parent before entering the school. The CCTV was also enhanced to cover all blind spots around the property to ensure full visibility. The headteacher has confirmed that this has met the needs of any pre-
existing security issues that the school had experienced.

 

Works for the design and procurement of an additional set of toilets is underway. It is expected that this additional set of toilets will be installed this financial year, commencing in October 2019, subject to approvals.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Earl thanked the Convener of Children & Young People Committee for her response and enquired whether she would be agreeable to meet with him and the Parent Council to discuss those concerns.

 

The Convener of Children & Young People Committee agreed to do so.

QUESTION 6

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ROSS OXBURGH FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF
CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE
HELD ON THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019.

 

Question

 

What is the number of examination subjects taken by S4 students at each of Stirling’s secondary schools and how does that compare with the number taken at each school in 2013?

 

Answer

 

The current number of options offered in S4 in all our secondary schools is 7.
In 2013 (the last year of Standard Grade), the following numbers were offered:

Balfron HS - 6
Dunblane HS - 7
McLaren HS - 7

Wallace HS, Stirling HS, St Modans HS & Bannockburn HS – 8

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Ross Oxburgh thanked the Convener of Children & Young People Committee for her response and enquired whether she agreed that this was the most appropriate style of examination.

 

The Convener of Children & Young People Committee agreed that this was the time for young people to get the maximum out of education and noted that there was a wider remit for young people, which was reflected in Positive Destinations.

QUESTION 7

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR JEREMY MCDONALD FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER
OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE
HELD ON THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019.

 

Question

 

Will the Convener advise what role the Local Authority plays in assessing the suitability of locations proposed for Communications, Electric or Gas infrastructure, especially when this concerns Council owned land?

 

Answer

 

In relation to the recent installation of a gas network extension in Deanston, this project is primarily funded by the HRA to alleviate fuel poverty for Council tenants in Deanston who previously had no access to the gas network.

 

The Housing Service supported the final location for the gas governor after taking account of the Planning Conservation Officer views and the major challenges presented by the underground lad that feeds Deanston Distillery. Stirling Council’s role during the works was the safe execution of the works on site when being carried out on Stirling Council land and assets e.g. applying and complying with traffic management arrangements, protecting the
public when opening trenches etc. It is the responsibility of the company supplying the network to undertake risk assessments. For example, when designing a gas network, all gas utility companies are required to complete an SR25 assessment to ensure all governors are designed and located in accordance with industry standards.

 

All network pipework and equipment up to the individual gas meter boxes serving any property is owned by the utility company. Due to the specialist works that they carry out, it is the gas industry regulator that is responsible for ensuring compliance with industry standards and not Stirling Council as the client.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Due to Councillor McDonald being delayed, Councillor Earl spoke on his behalf and enquired whether the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee was agreeable to meet with the local community to discuss location and installation of a gas network.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee noted that this matter was not in his portfolio; however, he was happy to offer advice on environment issues and suggested that Assets and Education Services may be the correct parties to assist with Councillor McDonald’s request.

QUESTION 8

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALASDAIR TOLLEMACHE FOR ANSWER BY
CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL
MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019.

 

Question

 

Can the Administration agree to end the use of single use plastic immediately within all council buildings and in our educational establishments? Where there are procurement contracts in place, can we immediately try to terminate these contracts seeking legal advice where appropriate?

 

Answer

 

There are likely to be a range of contracts where the inclusion of single-use plastics is incidental to the commodity being purchased (i.e. packaging). There is no requirement to terminate existing supply contracts to facilitate reduction in usage of single-use plastics as existing suppliers are keen to work with us to either cease or minimise the use of single-use plastics as far as possible. For example, where items incorporating single-use plastics account for a small number of items in a larger contract catalogue of items, suppliers can provide alternatives for consideration in relation to affordability and fitness for purpose.

 

For future requirements, each service would require to make a decision to purchase alternatives to single-use plastics based on the associated affordability and achievability on a case-by-case basis.

 

For example, the Council moved away from single-use plastic straws in 2017/18, switching to larger containers of milk and decanting into reusable jugs in both schools and Council buildings, thereby avoiding individual cartons, which require single use plastic straws.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Tollemache thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his response and enquired what could be done to speed up this process.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee noted that the question was more about how Stirling Council can manage procurement.

APPENDIX 2

 

MEETING of the STIRLING COUNCIL to be held in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS OLD VIEWFORTH, STIRLING on THURSDAY 27 JUNE 2019

 

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

 

1. Instrumental Music Tuition

   Stirling Council provides an Instrumental Music Tuition Service. This is offered to pupils in primary schools (from Primary 4 upwards) and pupils in secondary schools. Around 1000 pupils receive tuition in woodwind, strings, brass, percussion, pipe band drumming, bagpipes, piano, guitar and voice. As part of this service, music tutors work with secondary
   school music departments preparing pupils for SQA exams, as well as external exams. Opportunities are provided for pupils to come together to perform at school level and authority level, with annual Stirling concerts each November and smaller events throughout
   the year.

   It was agreed at a Special Meeting of Stirling Council on 21 February 2019 that annual fees for music tuition in 2019/20 would be:

   • £276 per child for group lessons.

   • £204 per child for families in receipt of housing benefit, council tax reduction/ benefit or education maintenance allowance.

   • £72 per child for families in receipt of free school meals or clothing grant.

   In order to provide the service free of charge to children in families in receipt of free school meals or clothing grant the projected cost of this to Stirling Council, through loss of income, would be £3000.

   The service is considering ways to widen the offer of instrumental music tuition through a range of actions, for example, the promotion of music tuition at school events. The service will continue to investigate and implement ways to widen the offer of instrumental music tuition.

    

2. Financial Surplus

   “The surplus on the General Fund for 2018/19, prior to commitments and contributions to reserves, was £0.876M, as reported to the Finance & Economy Committee on 13 June 2019, and not £1.669M, as stated in the Motion. Reserves moved from £9.822M at the start for 2018/19 to £9.192M at the end of that financial year, a reduction of £0.63M.

    

   Reserves should be utilised to fund transformation changes to service delivery that will be needed to address the ongoing financial challenge facing the Council. Reserves should also be used to cope with any unanticipated financial pressures that may arise. The Roads budget for 2019/20 was set in February, and while the Council can use reserves in-year, this should be done in a planned manner, and as part of the overall financial strategy. Members should also be aware that Council has already taken decisions to commit significant resources from reserves e.g. In response to the recent pool closure.

   Whilst the Roads Service would welcome the additional investment in the road network, the Service resources are fully occupied and committed to delivery of capital and revenue programmes agreed by Council for this year. If additional resources were allocated for investment in the road network at this time, the service would seek to deliver this through
   external contracting arrangements.”

    

3. Park of Keir

    

   Stirling Council has not been approached for any funding support for the development nor do we expect to be.

    

4. St Mary’s Episcopal Primary School

    

   St Mary’s Episcopal Primary School, one of three primary schools in Dunblane, has a projected roll for 2019-20 of 62 pupils. Reflecting national guidance, this amount of pupils can be organised into three classes. The maximum number of pupils that can be taught in a
   composite class is set nationally at 25, leaving potentially 13 places still available across the school. The structure of classes planned ensures there is space at all stages and historical information about movement in and out of the school during the session suggests that spaces left will be sufficient to meet needs.

    

   The decline in school roll has led to the decision to organise learning into three classes to reflect the roll. Analysis of nursery numbers also indicates a declining roll over the last few sessions from 24 children in 2016-17 to 7 currently enrolled for session 2019-20.

    

   Session	14/15	15/16	16/17	17/18	18/19	19/20
   Roll at September Census	81	81	68	78	71	62*

   * Projected roll based on enrolments to date

    

   Staffing decisions for Stirling Council schools are taken within an operational process, which involves consideration of a range of information including: roll analysis, information about movement of children in and out of the school over the course of a school year, patterns of late enrolments and placing requests into and out of the school, as well as any planned new building in the catchment area of the school. Staffing allocations to schools are made in accordance with the Stirling Council Devolved School Management Scheme, which reflects
   national guidance relating to teacher-pupil ratios.

    

   The number of classes at St Mary’s Episcopal Primary School will be comparable to other schools in Stirling with similar projected rolls in 2019/29 of: 64, 63 and 57. Children in all of these schools will be accommodated in three composite classes.

    

   A commitment has been made to reviewing the number of classes for session 2020-21 as part of the annual staffing exercise across schools. At this stage, school roll will again determine how many classes are required.

    

   The school will continue to work with the Parent Council to share and celebrate the work of the school in the local community. An action plan has been developed by the Parent Council in this regard. Officers will not promote an individual school to try and increase its roll.

   The headteacher and officers have responded to a number of enquiries and complaints in relation to the change in class structure for session 2019-20, explaining the rationale for the change in the number of classes. A meeting has also been held with Parent Council, at which, the rationale was explained.

    

   We have confidence that the school will continue to deliver high quality learning experiences for all children.

    

5. Grass Cutting

 

Officers will bring forward a report to the next meeting of the Environment and Housing Committee outlining the policy and cost implications from adopting a cut and lift approach on key routes and on certain playing fields.