Agenda Document Pack - North Ayrshire Council - 15/05/2024
North Ayrshire Council · 15 May 2024
Back to North Ayrshire Council — 15 May 2024 and its agenda
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE North Ayrshire Council A Meeting of North Ayrshire Council will be held in the Council Chambers, Ground Floor, Cunninghame House, Irvine, KA12 8EE on Wednesday, 15 May 2024 at 14:00 to consider the undernoted business. Meeting Arrangements - Hybrid Meetings This meeting will be held on a predominantly physical basis but with provision, by prior notification, for remote attendance by Elected Members in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 2003. Where possible, the meeting will be live-streamed and available to view at https://north-ayrshire.public- i.tv/core/portal/home. 1 Apologies 2 Declarations of Interest Members are requested to give notice of any declarations of interest in respect of items of business on the Agenda. 3 Previous Minutes The accuracy of the Minutes of the Meeting of the Council held on 27 March 2024 will be confirmed and the Minutes signed in accordance with Paragraph 7(1) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 (copy enclosed). 4 Provost's Report Submit report by the Provost for the period covering 18 March 2024 - 5 May 2024 (copy enclosed). 5 Leader's Report Submit report by the Leader of the Council for the period covering 18 March 2024 - 5 May 2024 (copy enclosed). 1
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE 6 Minute Volume (issued under separate cover) Submit, for noting and for approval of any recommendations contained therein, the Minutes of Meetings of committees of the Council held in the period 13 March 2024 - 7 May 2024. 7 Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Board: Minutes of Meeting Submit report by the Executive Director (Communities and Housing) on the Minutes of the Community Planning Partnership Board held on 15 March 2024 (copy enclosed). 8 Report of the Returning Officer - Kilwinning By-Election Submit report by the Returning Officer to advise on the outcome of the North Ayrshire Council Ward 6 Kilwinning By-Election and on the Declaration of Acceptance of Office by the New Elected Member for that Ward (copy enclosed). 9 Composition of Political Groups following the Kilwinning By-Election Submit report by the Chief Executive on the change in the composition of the Opposition Groups following the Kilwinning By-Election (copy enclosed). 10 Boundaries Scotland: 2023 Review of Scottish Parliament Boundaries Submit report by the Head of Service (Democratic) on the Boundaries Scotland’s 2023 Review of Scottish Parliament Constituency Boundaries (copy enclosed). 11 Seagate Castle - Preservation and Conservation Works Submit a report by the Executive Director (Place) seeking approval for an allocation of £236,420 from the Irvine Common Good to carry-out stabilisation and conservation works at Seagate Castle, Irvine (copy enclosed). 12 Congratulatory Motion In terms of Standing Order 15.3, submit the undernoted motion, duly proposed and seconded, which seeks to congratulate, commend or recognise an individual or group in relation to their achievement or activities within North Ayrshire:- 2
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (1) a congratulatory motion, duly proposed and seconded, in the following terms:- "The Kilwinning Scouting movement are rightly proud of King Scout Katie Roy and our Silver Wolf Recipient Mr Alister Kerr (Ned) who took part in the Scouts day of Celebration Event held at Windsor Castle on Sunday 21st April 2024. The event celebrated young people achieving the Top Award and amazing Adult volunteers that support the young people in the Scouting movement. I'm told both Katie and Alister had a really special day with Katie parading in front of the Chief Scout Bear Grylls. A wonderful day to celebrate the Scouting Achievement of Katie and Huge Commitment to Kilwinning Scouts of Alister who are both fantastic Scouting Ambassadors. North Ayrshire Council acknowledges this tremendous achievement for both Katie and Alister and sends its congratulations to both." 13 Questions In terms of Standing Order 14, submit:- (1) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and the Islands in the following terms: "Does the Portfolio holder agree that School librarians: 1. deliver an extensive programme to support literacy across the curriculum 2. assess reading ages through a test when pupils arrive in S1 3. deliver the Learning to Learn programme to help pupils learn how to study 4. ensure that the library is a valuable resource in every school from juniors using it to borrow books to being a safe study space for seniors where they can be assisted in research and applying for university and further agree that School Librarians are essential to improving attainment in literacy?" (2) a question by Councillor McDonald to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "To ask the Cabinet Member why the administration agreed to replace the hot light tea in early years with a cold “late lunch” for the remainder of this term?" 3
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (3) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: "To ask the cabinet member for Finance to provide an update on the recent fire at Fenix Battery Recycling Plant in Kilwinning?" (4) a question by Councillor Reid to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "I have noted that the ambient snack provision is now under way in our schools. One school has tweeted that they have been fundraising and organising equipment to support the distribution of the ambient snacks. In the roll out of this scheme, was no allowance made for equipment to facilitate the distribution of those ambient snacks taking account of allergies and hygiene requirements?" (5) a question by Councillor Billings to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and the Islands in the following terms: "Since the retirement of the main KA Leisure employee over 18 months ago, KA Leisure has not been able to employ anybody to fill the role. This has meant that on Arran the gym is closed, and community facilities are only open by special arrangement with staff having to come over from the mainland. Will the Cabinet member commit to working with officers to find a different model of operation for the community facilities at Arran High School which will enable them to be open for regular gym and community events?" (6) a question by Councillor Foster to the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care in the following terms: "Given the recent report that Canmore Children’s house was given a weak grade on the quality of support for children and young people's rights and wellbeing, is this the SNP Administrations way of keeping the Promise to care experienced people?" (7) a question by Councillor McLean to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: "To ask the cabinet member for Green Environment and Economy, does he believe that the current road management and maintenance plan is fit for purpose and sustainable in its current form?" 4
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (8) a question by Councillor Cullinane to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: "To ask the Cabinet Member for a breakdown of the assessed maintenance backlog for Kilwinning schools?" (9) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "Given that the Portfolio holder takes a keen interest in the performance of football League Tables can he explain why in the 2024 Times Newspaper's League Tables of Scottish school's performance based on the number of pupils achieving 5 Highers, there are now no NAC schools in the top 50?" (10) a question by Councillor Sweeney to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "Does the Cabinet Member for Education believe that North Ayrshire Council is providing a satisfactory Early Years Service?" (11) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: "To ask the cabinet member for Green Environment and Economy to provide an update on plans to deliver the safer speed limit of 20mph by 2025 on all appropriate roads in built-up areas?" (12) a question by Councillor Cullinane to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "The remodelling of early years is causing a significant concern for staff and families. Can the Cabinet Member confirm how many early years practitioners will: a) no longer have a contract following the review and b) be asked to move to a different early year’s centre?" (13) a question by Council McLean to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: “Can the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy tell me how many: 1. DPE FPNs have been issued? 2. how many have been paid in full, and how much was raised? 3. how many have been paid at the reduced rate? and 4. how many have not been paid on time?” 5
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (14) a question by Councillor Cullinane to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "To ask the Cabinet Member for an update on work to re-establish after school care provision in Kilwinning?" (15) a question by Councillor Inglis to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: "To ask the leader for an update on where the council is with firework control zones?" (16) a question by Councillor McDonald to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "What engagement has the administration had with pupils campaigning against cuts to school libraries?" (17) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "To ask the Portfolio holder for Education, what is the number of formal exclusions and informal exclusions in NAC Schools over each of the last 3 Academic years?" (18) a question by Councillor Reid to the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care in the following terms: "Kilwinning Councillors learned from the local press of concerns over a children's home in the ward including reported overcrowding, vulnerable users being placed in the wrong setting and a lack of maintenance. Whilst There were some positives, the report focused on the issues which appear to have been known and indeed may have been reported on earlier. Why was there no communication with elected members on the concerns raised by the Care Inspectorate and what actions are going to be taken to improve matters?" (19) a question by Councillor McLean to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: “Can the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy give me an update on NAC RAAC investigations? And has any more RAAC been found?” 6
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (20) a question by Councillor Sweeney to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: "To ask the Cabinet Member if the Council has been in contact with the owner of the former Rankins pub in Stevenston to ascertain their intentions for the building?" (21) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: "To ask the Leader to provide and update on how many TVs have been procured by NAC in the last five years?" (22) a question by Councillor Reid to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: "How many purple bin lid replacement requests were made to the customer service centre in 2023-24 and how many have still to be actioned for repair?" (23) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care Partnership in the following terms: Self-Directed Support (SDS) allows people to choose how their support is provided and gives them as much control as they want of their individual budget. Put simply SDS is the support a person purchases or arranges to meet agreed health and social care outcomes. Before SDS is granted there needs to be an assessment by social work. I ask the Cabinet member to provide the following information: 1. How many persons in the North Ayrshire are currently awaiting an Assessment for SDS and of these how many are in Ward 1 2. How many persons in the North Ayrshire are currently awaiting the result of an Assessment and of these how many are in Ward 1 3. What is the average waiting time for the result of an Assessment? 4. On average how long does it take from the completion of the Assessment to the award of SDS? 5. What is the budget for SDS for the current financial year and how many persons are currently in receipt of SDS. 6. In each of the previous 3 financial years much was spent in on SDS and how many persons were in receipt of SDS. (24) a question by Councillor Kerr to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: "To ask for an update on the work of the Ardrossan taskforce since the last Council meeting?" 7
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (25) a question by Councillor McLean to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and the Islands in the following terms: “Does the Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and the Islands believe that our community centres and associated associations are sustainable and to see if he is aware of any concerns raised with regard to their support?” (26) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: "What events are being planned to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Normandy Landings?" 14 Motions In terms of Standing Order 15, submit:- 8
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (1) a motion by Councillor Gurney, seconded by Councillor Johnson, in the following terms: That the Council notes: • The scientific consensus is clear that human activities are primarily responsible for accelerating global climate change, and that the climate crisis now represents one of the preeminent threats to global civilisation. • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Sixth Assessment Report states that it is unequivocal that climate change has already disrupted human and natural systems and that societal choices and actions implemented in the next decade determine the extent to which medium- and long-term pathways will deliver higher or lower climate resilient development. • The International Energy Agency stated in its May 2021 report “Net Zero by 2050” that in order to reach that goal there should be no new oil or gas fields, or new coal mines, as of that moment. • The Paris Climate Agreement is silent on coal, oil and gas, an omission with respect to the supply and production of fossil fuels (the largest source of GHGs) that needs to be collectively addressed by other means; and that global governments and the fossil fuel industry are currently planning to produce more than double the amount of coal, oil and gas by 2030 than can be burned if the world is to limit warming to 1.5°C and avert catastrophic climate disruption, and such plans risk undoing the work of our Council to reduce GHG emissions. • A new global initiative is underway calling for a Fossil Fuel Non- Proliferation Treaty that would plan the end of new fossil fuel exploration and expansion, phase out existing production in line with the global commitment to limit warming to 1.5°C, and accelerate equitable transition plans globally. This Council recognises that: • Our entire community will be affected by the impacts of continued fossil fuel expansion and resulting climate change, but particularly those who also face socioeconomic and health inequities, including low-income families, those experiencing homelessness, people from ethnic minority groups, young and old, those experiencing mental and physical disabilities, and people with health conditions; and our youth and future generations have the most to lose from a lack of immediate action to stop fossil fuel expansion as they face major and lifelong health, ecological, social, and economic impacts from prolonged and cumulative effects of climate change, including food and water shortages, infectious diseases, and natural disasters. This change is already being seen with the necessary acceleration of extensive flood defences in many of our towns. This Council believes that: 9
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE • New fossil fuel infrastructure and expanded reliance on fossil fuels exposes communities to untenable risks to public health and safety at the local and global levels; and that the economic opportunities presented by a clean energy transition far outweigh the opportunities presented by an economy supported by expanding finite fossil fuel extraction and use. This Council resolves to: • Reaffirm our commitment, as part of our climate emergency response, to a just energy transition and to ambitious investments in the green infrastructure and industries that will create jobs and rapidly decarbonize our economy; and recognises that it is the urgent responsibility and moral obligation of wealthy fossil fuel producers to lead in putting an end to fossil fuel development and to manage the decline of existing production. • Formally endorse the call for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty and make that endorsement public. • Call on the Scottish Government to also endorse the call for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. • To write to COSLA and raise our serious concerns about the impact of the climate emergency on local authorities and the need for a planned phase out of fossil fuels, and to call on them to endorse the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. (2) a motion by Councillor McTiernan, seconded by Councillor Johnson, in the following terms: That the Council: • Stands in solidarity with the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI Women). • Believes the women have been treated appallingly by the UK Government and the Department for Work and Pensions. • Supports the findings and recommendations of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, which found 'maladministration' on the part of the DWP. • Calls on the UK Government to acknowledge the financial and emotional burden its actions have imposed on WASPI women, and to fully fund compensation due to the women, without further delay. • Council instructs the Chief Executive to write to Mel Stride MP, UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, intimating the Council's position and requesting that the UK Government confirms it will act without delay to right the wrong inflicted on WASPI Women. 10
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (3) a motion by Councillor Marshall, seconded by Councillor T Ferguson, in the following terms: The CalMac ferry services to our islands of Arran and Cumbrae continue to offer poor value for the residents, tourists and taxpayer alike and contrary to the aims of the Island Plan contribute to the decline in population of both Islands. Both the Arran and Cumbrae ferry services underperform in terms, of reliability, capacity, and frequency and in so doing threaten the Tourist economies of both Islands. The contract for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services (CHFS) which are operated by CalMac is due to be retendered in September 2024. We move that the Chief Executive write to the Scottish Government and the Transport Minister to express our view that the present contract for the Clyde and Hebridean Ferry Service should not in its entirety be directly awarded to CalMac but should be unbundled to seek a competitive tender for the Clyde Island Ferry Services and in so doing provide better access to the Islands thereby ensuring that islanders lifestyle can be improved, population decline reversed and the tourist economy reinvigorated. 11
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (4) a motion by Councillor McClung, seconded by Councillor Reid, in the following terms: The release of helium balloons and sky lanterns has increased in recent years, and both can cause significant harm to the environment, animals and livestock in particular. Sky Lanterns can cause considerable fire risk, particularly during dry spells. They also pose a threat to animals, as they can cause injury, suffering, and death, through ingestion, entanglement and entrapment. When eaten, the sharp parts of a Chinese Lantern can tear and puncture an animal’s throat or stomach, causing internal bleeding. Likewise, helium balloons when they land, become a danger to any wildlife, farmed animals or companion animals that may happen to find them before this debris is removed. If ingested, the balloon can do irreparable, often fatal, damage to an animal’s oesophagus and digestive tract and can cause suffocation. Scottish charity, Animal Concern, have launched a campaign seeking support from Scottish local authorities to reduce the harm caused by these balloons and lanterns by placing restrictions on the release of sky lanterns and balloons on council-owned land and property. Council agrees to support the Animal Concern Campaign and so imposes a complete ban on the release of Sky Lanterns and Helium Balloons from any and all of the land it owns. Information on this ban will be made available on the NAC website and will be intimated to any person seeking to book any public space owned by the Council. 12
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE (5) a motion by Councillor Reid, seconded by Councillor Gurney, in the following terms: Council previously passed a motion on animal welfare; it is time to refresh that motion following changes in attitude and heightened concerns for animal welfare at touring or one off events and the potential funding for these activities. At a meeting of North Ayrshire Council at 2.00 p.m. on 19 September 2012 In terms of Standing Order 13 there was submitted: (b) a motion by Councillor Oldfather, seconded by Councillor Burns, in the following terms: "That North Ayrshire Council agrees to adopt a Policy banning the letting of Council owned sites to travelling circuses or similar organisations which utilise animals in the provision of entertainment." There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried.” Council asks that officers are instructed to carry out a review of council policy around the following principles: • That council adopts a refreshed approach to limit and control the presence of animals for entertainment in our venues, highways, parks and open spaces, where it is legally possible to do so. • That normally council would not support animals being out of their natural environments for events where there is no clear benefit of education, competition leading to national competitions or recognised need for a competitive event. Any approval for the presence of animals would require to account of animal welfare concerns including appropriate refuge from crowds. • That pet shows for domesticated animals at community events would be permissible. • That the policy would cover considerations of land and premises use permissions, grant giving/conditions and licences Council asks that the principles of the new draft policy and proposals for application, implementation and enforcement are considered by the Policy Advisory Panel to obtain detailed contributions from Members and that thereafter it is considered for adoption by Cabinet.” 15 Urgent Items Any other items which the Chair considers to be urgent. 13
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE Webcasting Please note: this meeting may be filmed/recorded/live-streamed to the Council's internet site and available to view at https://north-ayrshire.public- i.tv/core/portal/home, where it will be capable of repeated viewing. At the start of the meeting, the Provost/Chair will confirm if all or part of the meeting is being filmed/recorded/live-streamed. You should be aware that the Council is a Data Controller under the Data Protection Act 2018. Data collected during the webcast will be retained in accordance with the Council’s published policy, including, but not limited to, for the purpose of keeping historical records and making those records available via the Council’s internet site. Generally, the press and public seating areas will not be filmed. However, by entering the Council Chambers, using the press or public seating area or (by invitation) participating remotely in this meeting, you are consenting to being filmed and consenting to the use and storage of those images and sound recordings and any information pertaining to you contained in them for webcasting or training purposes and for the purpose of keeping historical records and making those records available to the public. If you do not wish to participate in a recording, you should leave the meeting. This will constitute your revocation of consent. If you have any queries regarding this and, in particular, if you believe that use and/or storage of any particular information would cause, or be likely to cause, substantial damage or distress to any individual, please contact dataprotectionofficer@north-ayrshire.gov.uk. 14
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE North Ayrshire Council Sederunt John Bell Timothy Billings Marie Burns Eleanor Collier Joe Cullinane Scott Davidson Anthea Dickson Stewart Ferguson Todd Ferguson Robert Foster Scott Gallacher Tony Gurney Alan Hill Mary Hume Cameron Inglis Margaret Johnson Amanda Kerr Christina Larsen Shaun Macaulay Jean McClung Nairn McDonald Matthew McLean Louise McPhater Davina McTiernan Tom Marshall Jim Montgomerie Ian Murdoch Donald Reid Donald L Reid Chloe Robertson Ronnie Stalker Angela Stephen John Sweeney Chair: Apologies: Attending: 15
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North Ayrshire Council 27 March 2024 At a Meeting of North Ayrshire Council at 2.00 p.m. involving a combination of participation by remote electronic means and physical attendance within the Council Chambers, Irvine Present (Physical Participation) John Bell, Marie Burns, Eleanor Collier, Joe Cullinane, Anthea Dickson, Stewart Ferguson, Todd Ferguson, Scott Gallacher, Tony Gurney, Alan Hill, Cameron Inglis, Margaret Johnson, Christina Larsen, Shaun Macaulay, Tom Marshall, Nairn McDonald, Matthew McLean, Louise McPhater, Davina McTiernan, Donald Reid, Donald L. Reid, Chloé Robertson, Ronnie Stalker, Angela Stephen and John Sweeney. Present (Remote Electronic Participation) Timothy Billings, Scott Davidson, Robert Foster and Amanda Kerr. In Attendance C. Hatton, Chief Executive; C. Cameron, Director (Health and Social Care Partnership); D. Hammond, Head of Service (Sustainability, Transport and Corporate Property) (Place); R. Leith, Head of Service (Connected Communities) and A. McClelland, Head of Service (Education) Communities and Education); M. Boyd, Head of Service (Finance); and A. Craig, Head of Service, R. Lynch, Senior Manager (Legal Services); M. McColm, Senior Manager (Communications), M. Anderson, Senior Manager (Committee and Member Services) and H. Clancy and S. Wilson, Committee Services Officer (Democratic Services). Chair Provost Dickson in the Chair. Apologies Jean McClung, Jim Montgomerie and Ian Murdoch. 1. Provost's Remarks The Provost welcomed those present to the meeting and dealt with preliminary matters, including intimation that the meeting, which was taking place on a hybrid basis, would be live streamed to the internet. 2. Apologies The Provost invited intimation of apologies for absence, which were recorded. Agenda Item 3 17
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3. Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of interest in terms of Standing Order 11 and Section 5 of the Councillors' Code of Conduct. There were no declarations of the Party Whip. 4. Previous Minutes The accuracy of the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 14 February 2024 and the Special Meeting held on 28 February 2024 was confirmed and the Minutes signed in accordance with Paragraph 7(1) of Schedule 7 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. 5. Provost’s Report Submitted report by the Provost for the period from 5 February 2024-17 March 2024. The Provost highlighted elements of her written report, including: • a groundbreaking event to mark the start of construction on new green energy projects; • various events involving young people, including the opportunity to congratulate newly elected MSYPs as they took up office, the Young Musician of the Year competition and the launch of “Beat the Street”; and • the work of a variety of groups across North Ayrshire. Noted. 6. Leader’s Report Submitted report by the Leader of the Council for the period for 5 February-17 March 2024. Noted. 7. Council Minute Volume Submitted for noting the Minutes of meetings of committees of the Council held in the period 24 November 2023-29 February 2024. Noted. 18
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8. Appointment to Committee The Council was invited to consider a nomination to fill a vacancy in terms of the position of Vice Chair of the Police and Fire and Rescue Committee. Councillor Gallacher, seconded by Councillor Inglis, moved that Councillor S. Ferguson be appointed as Vice Chair of the Police and Fire and Rescue Committee. There being no other nomination, Councillor S. Ferguson was duly appointed. 9. North Ayrshire Ventures Trust Ltd. Submitted a report by the Head of Service (Democratic) to appoint a new director to the Board of North Ayrshire Ventures Trust Limited. Councillor Hill, seconded by Councillor Robertson, moved approval of the recommendations set out in the officer’s report. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed to appoint David Hammond to the Board of North Ayrshire Ventures Trust Limited, effective from 1 April 2024. Councillor Kerr joined the meeting (remotely) at this point. 10. Review of Polling Districts and Polling Places Submitted a report by the Head of Service (Democratic) to approve the outcome of the statutory review of polling districts and polling places. The finalised proposals for polling places were detailed in Appendix 1 to the report. Councillor Burns, seconded by Councillor Macaulay, moved approval of the recommendations set out in the officer’s report. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed as follows: (a) to note the conclusions and recommendations of the review of polling districts and polling places; and (b) to approve the venues listed in Appendix 1 to the report as polling places for future electoral events. 11. Member Officer Working Group on Local Representation Submitted a report by the Executive Director (Communities and Education) on the findings of a short-life Working Group on Local Representation. 19
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Councillor Hill, seconded by Councillor Robertson, moved approval of the recommendations set out in the officer’s report. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed to note (i) the work carried out by the short-life Working Group on Local Representation and (ii) the conclusions reached by the working group. 12. Questions In terms of Standing Order 14, submitted: (1) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: “The total number of Aggression and Violence incidents reported by the Communities and Education Directorate for Quarter 3 increased from 270 in 2020 to 410 in 2021 and from 394 in 2022 to 563 in 2023, an increase of over 100% in 4 years. Why the huge increase and what is being done to protect staff?” Councillor Macaulay thanked the Member for his question and highlighted elements of the following written response: “The vast majority of our learners behave well. It is recognised nationally that there are increases in incidents of violence and aggression within educational settings: this is mostly pupil to pupil. The recent findings from BISSR (Behaviour in Scottish Schools Research 2023) demonstrated that pupil-teacher violence and aggression is experienced more frequently by those working with Early Years and Primaries 1-3. Since the last research, which was conducted in 2016, teaching and support staff also noted increases in issues around the use of mobile telephones. Nationally, there was support for positive approaches to managing behaviour; however, a need for meaningful consequences was noted as an important development. The message to our employees is that violence and aggression from adults is not tolerated. In recognising the development of children and young people’s brains, we are clear that, whilst understood developmentally, we do not accept that employees and other young people should consider violence and aggression as a natural element of their working environment. As a result, we are working hard to reduce these incidents. The new ASSURE system has been in place since October 2023 and an increase in reporting was anticipated. There are a number of reasons for this, including: some teething issues with the new system around alignment to sectors (which are now being addressed); the ease of access to the system has contributed to the anticipated rise in recorded incidents; and there are a number of pupils for whom there are multiple entries for incidents. 20
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We analyse these incidents on a regular basis and ensure that action is taken to support those impacted, and that those displaying such behaviours are supported appropriately. Senior Managers liaise with their Head Teachers and Centre Heads to interrogate data which causes concerns and scrutinise incidents and how these are managed. Alongside our Trade Union colleagues, we are in the final stages of reviewing the Corporate policy on Violence and Aggression to focus specifically on how incidents of this nature can be prevented and the impact minimised. The document provides clear and straightforward instruction for establishments on how such matters should be dealt with in terms of both support for staff and young people impacted by incidents of violence and aggression, and the importance of regularly reviewed and updated risk assessments and individualised Positive Behaviour Plans. We are currently developing additional professional learning for our senior leaders in managing this type of behaviour, building on much of the strong work on targeted and whole school nurture, Promoting Positive Relationships and Building on Positive Relationships. This will also be available to Classroom Assistants and Pupil Support Assistants.” As a supplementary question, Councillor Marshall asked about the number of North Ayrshire pupils who had been formally and informally excluded in the past three years. Councillor Macaulay responded by undertaking to provide Councillor Marshall with the requested figures. With the permission of the Provost, clarification was sought, and received, that the figures requested by Councillor Marshall would be provided to all Members for their information. (2) a question by Councillor Kerr to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: “Has the Leader of the Council met the Transport Minister since the last ordinary meeting of the Council, to discuss the Ardrossan Harbour project, and if so to ask for an update?" Councillor Burns thanked the Member for her question and responded in the following terms: “I reported to the last council meeting that I, the Chief Executive and representatives from Arran had met with the then Cabinet Secretary for the Economy [Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy] to make him aware of the impact the ferry issues were having on the island. That contributed to the Scottish budget announcement of financial support for island businesses. 21
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Again, with island representatives and the local MSP, we followed this up with a meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Transport [Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity of Scotland], Fiona Hyslop, about a month ago now. As I am sure Councillor Kerr will appreciate, the issues around ferry concerns and the delay in agreeing the business case for Ardrossan Harbour were put very forcefully by everyone around the table and the Cabinet Secretary recognised that. We asked for a greater degree of urgency on the part of Transport Scotland and agreed to do whatever we could within the council to expedite this. We also asked for a date to be arranged for the next Taskforce, as improved communication is vital. We have not had a response from Transport Scotland as yet but we are chasing that up and we are hopeful that completion of the business case is imminent. We had a further meeting last night with the representatives from Arran who attended the meeting with the Cabinet Secretary. As a result, I will be writing again to the Cabinet Secretary to push on our request for the completion of the business case and a meeting of the Taskforce.” As Councillor Kerr was unable to ask a supplementary question due to connectivity issues, it was noted that the Member would have the opportunity to liaise directly with the Leader outwith the meeting. (3) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: “To ask the Cabinet portfolio-holder for Education how many primary and secondary schools in North Ayrshire have defibrillators?” Councillor Macaulay thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “47 out of the 48 Primary schools and all the Secondary schools have defibrillators. The defibrillator in Kilmory on Arran is located in Kilmory Hall.” (4) a question by Councillor McPhater to the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care in the following terms: “What is the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care’s response to the latest drug death figures?” Councillor Johnston thanked the Member for her question and responded by expressing the view that each drug death was preventable and that the statistics themselves did not reveal their tragic impact on individuals, families, carers and communities. 22
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The Cabinet Member referred to the national mission to reduce drug related deaths and improve lives, and to a number of initiatives, including the introduction of Medical Assisted Treatment standards, a focus on increased support to individuals following a non-fatal overdose, increased Naloxone supply, and easier access to residential rehabilitation. Councillor Johnston concluded her remarks by emphasising the importance of these initiatives along with longer-term solutions to address adverse impacts of people’s health and wellbeing, including inequality and poverty. As a supplementary question, Councillor McPhater made reference to increases in the number of drug-related deaths and to the number of Scottish Government Drugs Ministers who had been in office in recent years, and asked if the Cabinet Member agreed that there must be continued support for the work done by communities and within communities to help those affected by drugs. Councillor Johnston responded by advising that she was unable to speak on behalf of the Scottish Government with regard to ministerial appointments. The Cabinet Member offered to read out a list of the various actions being taken by the Council and its partners to address the issue of drug deaths or, otherwise, to have the information in question circulated outwith the meeting. Councillor McPhater advised that she was content to have the information sent to her. (5) a question by Councillor Stephen to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: “What provision does North Ayrshire Council have for children moving up to secondary school who require additional support for their education?” Councillor Macaulay thanked the Member for her question and highlighted elements of the following written response: “There is a broad range of supports for children moving from Primary to Secondary Schools. All young people benefit from a transition programme which runs throughout their P7 year, with some establishments extending this to P6 learners. These programmes include social events for parents and children, information sessions, visits to the primary by secondary staff and visits to the secondary environment. Many clusters plan ‘cluster- wide’ events where P7 pupils and their families come together to get to know one another. These programmes are well embedded and support the needs of almost all young people. 23
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For children with additional needs who require some enhancement to their transition, bespoke programmes are put in place. From Primary 5, cluster Primary Heads engage with their colleagues in the secondary school to identify young people for whom the transition to secondary may be particularly challenging. Some young people benefit from what is usually called an ‘enhanced transition’ which can include additional visits with smaller groups. Others may require a more intensive approach and may be identified as appropriate to receive additional support from the ‘Secondary Support Resource’ (SSR). The SSR is a flexible resource available within all our secondary schools. Staff will create a transition bespoke to the learner’s individual needs and this support can be in place from S1 through to S3. The aim is to ensure children feel well supported and able to attend as many mainstream classes as possible. The teams will aim to have learners able to engage with their secondary experience independently where possible. For learners who are transferring to Lockhart Campus, authority wide SSR provisions (within Irvine Royal Academy and Greenwood Academy) or the Astra Base (within Ardrossan Academy) each transition will be individually designed to match the learner’s needs.” As a supplementary question, Councillor Stephen made reference to concerns which had been expressed by parents in light of councils reviewing their support for young people with additional needs, including transport to school, and asked whether there had been any change in this provision in North Ayrshire over the past year. Councillor Macaulay responded by offering to look into any specific case the Member wished to discuss and by undertaking to double-check that there had been no changes in terms of the transfer policy within North Ayrshire schools. (6) a question by Councillor McLean to the Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: “To the Cabinet Member, what effect does he believe the continued or expanded use of fossil fuels will have on the environment, considering NAC’s climate emergency declaration?” Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded by referring to the use of fossil fuels and the concomitant effect on the environment, as exemplified by catastrophic climate change, which presented an existential threat to the planet. The Cabinet Member asserted that, to his knowledge, the only people attempting to deny this scientific truth, were far right agitators, paid shells of the fossil fuel industry and conspiracy theorists. As a supplementary question, Councillor McLean referred to the need for the Council’s actions to match its words and, given that its housing stock represented the largest part of the Council’s estate, asked why it had committed to a further generation of fossil fuel technology in home boilers. 24
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Councillor Gurney responded by asserting that, as part of its ongoing response to the climate emergency declaration, the Council was aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decarbonise its estate through the various measures set out in the Sustainable North Ayrshire Strategy. The Cabinet Member advised that many of these measures were being implemented in the Council’s new housing estate. Councillor Gurney went on to acknowledge the financial challenges of reaching net zero, along with other issues, including the pace of technology and developments in the supply chain and skills within the sector. The Cabinet Member concluded his remarks by acknowledging that this was a national issue shared by all local authorities and RSLs [Registered Social Landlords] and advising that the Council would be signing up to the Scottish Housing Net Zero Standard. (7) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: “Kelio swipe card access is installed at both Bridgegate and Cunninghame House and generate a database of attendance by individual staff. How many staff have attended each of these offices? 1. One day a week 2. Two days a week 3. Three or more days a week What is the maximum possible daily attendance for each of these locations?” Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “Information taken from the Kelio system for week commencing 11 March 2024 indicates the following attendance patterns at Cunninghame House and Bridgegate: Attendance Cunninghame House Bridgegate 1 day per week 369 employees 86 employees 2 days per week 353 employees 81 employees 3 or more days per week 278 employees 163 employees Maximum possible daily attendance has not been reduced to reflect people on leave, sickness absence or vacant posts. Cunninghame House: 1050 Bridgegate House: 450” 25
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As a supplementary question, Councillor Marshall made reference to apparent differences in the attendance trends relating to Cunninghame House and Bridgegate, and asked if the Cabinet Member had an explanation. At the request of the Leader, the Provost was invited to rule on the competence of the question, given that it appeared to relate to an operational matter. The Provost exercised her discretion to allow the Cabinet Member to respond. The Cabinet Member responded by advising that she was unaware of the individual circumstances of staff, but that, simply because an officer was not in the building, it did not mean that they were not working. Councillor Larsen reminded the Member that Elected Members also worked on an agile basis and they did not question each other about working from outwith the building. (8) a question by Councillor McLean to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and the Islands in the following terms: “To ask the Cabinet Member what provisions have been made to increase capacity within the housing department and specifically the team that deals with tenant disputes and anti-social behaviour?” Councillor Hill thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “As outlined in the HRA Capital Investment Plan, Revenue Budget and Rent Levels for 2024/25 Report presented to the Council meeting on 14 February 2024 and in recognition of the significant financial and service delivery challenges in the coming years, a service review was undertaken during 2023 which focused on reshaping the Housing Service to provide an enhanced, community-based service to our tenants. Key areas of focus within the review included: • the identification of emerging best practice in housing service delivery across the country • improving working practices to best meet the needs of our communities and tenants, including an annual home visit • delivering value for money and ensuring the best allocation of currently available resources • areas of statutory compliance As a result of this review, a new integrated service delivery model - with Housing Operations, Homelessness and Anti-social Behaviour staff teams co-located within our mainland housing offices - is in the process of being implemented and aims to be fully operational by 31 May 2024. 26
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The new delivery model will respond to all housing-related issues on a locality basis, ensuring area teams have a shared understanding of local issues, priorities and emerging issues. It will also ensure that our housing staff are utilised to provide effective service delivery, with a particular focus on prevention work. The integration of the Antisocial Behaviour Investigation Team within the new locality- based teams will enable a more effective response to tenant issues and antisocial behaviour. By having a coordinated and focussed service response to estate management issues, officers will have the ability to respond to arising issues earlier and prevent escalation of antisocial behaviour to a more serious issue. Housing Services are also in the process of mapping performance data to identify areas of service priority on a locality basis. Moving forward, this will support the ongoing allocation of staff resources to where they are most needed, in order to support our communities and enable them to thrive.” As a supplementary question, Councillor McLean referred to Police Scotland’s pilot programme in respect of non-attendance at low level incidents and asked about the capacity of the Council’s Housing Service to deal with incidents of anti-social behaviour which might escalate as a result. Councillor Hill responded by suggesting that it was probably too soon to answer this question, but that reorganising the Housing Service on a locality basis was likely to mean that it could respond more quickly to local issues. The Cabinet Member advised that the impact of changes to Police Scotland policy would be monitored and reported back. (9) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: “To ask the Cabinet portfolio holder for Education if he believes digital inclusion for primary and secondary pupils is important? Councillor Macaulay thanked the Member for his question and responded by agreeing that digital inclusion was important and advising that this had been reflected in the recent Capital Programme approved at the beginning of the month. As a supplementary question, Councillor T. Ferguson invited the Cabinet Member to join him in condemning the recent announcement by the SNP Education Secretary [Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills] that the government was scrapping its digital device programme and asked how the Member was now planning to deliver on the promise that every pupil in North Ayrshire would have an electronic device, free internet connection and the support to use it. 27
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Councillor Macaulay responded by pointing out that financial conditions had significantly changed since March 2021 and commenting on the UK Government’s role in this. The Cabinet Member advised that, nothwithstanding this, the Council was continuing to deliver on the commitment, with over 3000 Chromebooks having been purchased using Scottish Government Covid Recovery funding and the Council’s own resources and work currently ongoing to extend this further into community settings. Councillor Macaulay concluded his remarks by acknowledging the challenges faced and reiterating the Council’s commitment to delivering on digital devices. (10) a question by Councillor McLean to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: “Is North Ayrshire Council (including any specific departments or services, e.g. libraries etc.) in the process of, or considering becoming, a ‘Hate Crime Third Party Reporting Centre’? And if so, what risks does that open up the local authority to?” Councillor Burns thanked the Member for his question and highlighted elements of the following written response: “North Ayrshire Council continues to keep under review the possible use of its facilities as Hate Crime Third Party Reporting Centres. At the present time there are no active proposals in this regard. We note there are currently three locations within the North Ayrshire Council area which are Hate Crime Third Party Reporting Centres: Barnardo's North Ayrshire Families Services in Kilwinning, The Gatehouse at Ayrshire Central Hospital in Irvine, and The Scottish Centre for Personal Safety in Ardrossan. Prior to any final decision being taken in relation to the use of Council facilities for this purpose, appropriate risk assessments and training would require to be carried out.” As a supplementary question, Councillor McLean asked whether, in the event of any change, the matter could be brought to a Policy Advisory Panel and, thereafter, a meeting of the full Council, rather than the Cabinet, in light of the controversial nature of the policy. Councillor Burns responded by advising that she was unaware of controversy around third party reporting centre policy, given that it had been in place for a number of years, but agreed to the Member’s request, undertaking to bring any developments to the Policy Advisory Panel. 28
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(11) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: “To ask the Cabinet portfolio holder what the current civil contingency policy is for dealing with potential fires at battery energy storage systems (BESS)?” Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “There has been discussion at the West of Scotland Regional Resilience Partnership (WoSRRP) in response to requests from local resilience partnerships (including Ayrshire) on developing plans to deal with fires at battery energy storage systems. A draft regional plan has recently been prepared by WoSRRP which, once shared with Ayrshire Local Resilience Partnership will enable them to develop a local response document for the sites within Ayrshire, based on the regional plan. This will ensure a consistent approach across the region. For Ayrshire, it is likely that visits to each site may be required so that a specific local response which would include cordons, access routes, etc could be properly developed. It is anticipated that these visits will be scheduled shortly. Contact has already been made with one of the sites (not in North Ayrshire) and a visit will be arranged when they are further forward in the development of the site. There is a nationwide list which is available to Resilience partners and is updated monthly so that the Ayrshire Local Resilience Partnership (via Ayrshire Civil Contingencies Team) can ensure that appropriate planning is put in place. There are no Council battery energy storage systems and battery storage does not form part of our solar farm proposals at the current time. The Council is developing a battery storage pilot, aligned to the existing rooftop solar array at West Byrehill. This has not yet been installed and, given its scale, it is unlikely to trigger any civil contingencies involvement. The Council will, however, keep this under review to ensure that any appropriate processes and requirements are adhered to.” As a supplementary question, Councillor T. Ferguson, referring to the scale of the Hunterston site, potential further sites in North Ayrshire and reported fire risks associated with BESS facilities, asked whether a briefing note could be provided to all Elected Members once the regional plan was completed, so that reassurance could be provided to their constituents. Councillor Larsen responded in the affirmative. (12) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and the Economy in the following terms: “There is a Phase 1 proposal to spend some £1.5 m to reduce the width of the North Promenade in Largs by 50% to incorporate a cycle track. 80% of the Ward 1 Members are opposed to this. 29
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There is also an ongoing consultation in relation to public toilet provision in Largs which may result in the closure of 80% of the toilets. 80% of the Ward 1 Members are opposed to this. Will the views of local Elected Members prevail?” The Provost intimated that, as the question covered two Cabinet portfolios, Councillor Hill would respond. Councillor Hill, in his capacity as Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and Islands, thanked the Member for his question and responded by suggesting that it was too soon to advise on this. The Cabinet Member advised that the Sustrans proposal was still in the early stages and that further consultation would take place with local Members prior to public engagement. Councillor Hill emphasised that this was a Sustrans project, not one funded by the Council and that he would be reluctant to refuse investment in the locality without having an opportunity to explore it further. The Cabinet Member also suggested that 100% of people would be opposed to the closure of public toilets, but that the current financial situation meant that this needed to be considered. Councillor Hill advised that discussion had been taking place about the possibility of a local group taking over the running of the facilities and that this was ongoing. As a supplementary question, Councillor Marshall, reiterating that 80% of local Elected Members were opposed to the project and reflecting on the purpose of the promenade as a place for walking rather than cycling, asked whether the Cabinet Member thought that significant sums of money should be spent on this project or on keeping public conveniences open and filling potholes. Councillor Hill responded by reminding the Member that the Sustrans funding could not be used for public toilets or filling potholes. The Cabinet Member advised that he was not prepared to close down discussion on bringing investment into the area. Councillor Hill concluded his response by suggesting that the promenade had always been used by cyclists and rejecting any suggestion that young cyclists in particular should be redirected to the main road. Councillor Foster lost his connection to the meeting during consideration of this item of business and effectively left the meeting at this point. 30
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13. Motions In terms of Standing Order 15, submitted: (1) a motion proposed by Councillor T. Ferguson, seconded by Councillor Billings, in the following terms: “That the Council: 1. welcomes the news from the UK government Spring Budget announcement that there will be an additional £48.5 million in funding for local authorities in Scotland via the Barnett consequentials; 2. further notes that the Deputy First Minister of Scotland has said that this funding will only be passed onto those local authorities who agreed to freeze council tax in their 2024/25 budget proposals; and 3. asks that once the additional funding allocation has been announced for North Ayrshire, it is brought back to full Council so that all 33 Councillors can have an input into where best to spend this additional money.” There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. (2) a motion by Councillor T. Ferguson, seconded by Councillor Marshall, in the following terms: “That the Council: 1. notes that North Ayrshire Council recognises the long, proud, and safe delivery of low-carbon nuclear energy at Hunterston A and B stations; 2. further notes, that the UK government recently announced the largest expansion in nuclear power in 70 years with a focus being on the delivery of Small Modular Reactors; 3. understands that North Ayrshire Council have declared a climate emergency 4. finally, asks that the Chief Executive Officer write to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Minister for Nuclear asking them to consider Hunterston and Ardeer as future sites for emerging SMR development here in the UK; thereby protecting our excellent nuclear workforce and providing vital employment for generations to come.” As an amendment, Councillor Collier, seconded by Councillor Gurney moved as follows: “That the Council: 1. notes that the Scottish Government’s energy policy recognises the contribution that nuclear generation has made to the energy mix in Scotland but specifically opposes the building of new nuclear power stations; 31
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2. notes that in North Ayrshire, the challenges of the Climate Change emergency and Net Zero targets will be best met by the continued development of renewable and other low carbon energy sources, related employment opportunities and the promotion and support of alternative low carbon solutions; and 3. notes that apart from the inevitable nuclear waste legacy, there are questions around the cost effectiveness and ultimate value for money of the UK Government’s ‘Great British Nuclear’ strategy and planned Small Modular Reactors.” There followed debate and summing up. Following a point of order by Councillor Marshall in terms of Standing Order 12.2, Councillor Cullinane clarified remarks he had made during debate and offered an apology for any unintended offence caused to Councillor T. Ferguson. On a division and a roll call vote, there voted for the amendment, Councillors Burns, Collier, Davidson, Dickson, Gurney, Hill, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McPhater, McTiernan and Robertson (12) and for the motion, Councillors Bell, Billings, Cullinane, S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Gallacher, Inglis, Kerr, Marshall, McLean, D. Reid, Stalker, Stephen and Sweeney (14), Councillors D.L. Reid and McDonald abstaining, and the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed as follows: (a) to note that (i) North Ayrshire Council recognised the long, proud, and safe delivery of low-carbon nuclear energy at Hunterston A and B stations, (ii) the UK government had recently announced the largest expansion in nuclear power in 70 years, with a focus being on the delivery of Small Modular Reactors and (iii) North Ayrshire Council had declared a climate emergency; and (b) that the Chief Executive write to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Minister for Nuclear asking them to consider Hunterston and Ardeer as future sites for emerging SMR development here in the UK, thereby protecting our excellent nuclear workforce and providing vital employment for generations to come. Councillor Gallacher left the meeting at this point. (3) a motion by Councillor McPhater, seconded by Councillor Cullinane, in the following terms: “Council agrees to provide a £50 clothing grant to all eligible* 3- and 4-year-olds in Early Years during the 2024/25 school year, funded through a proportion of the £123,000 residual balance unallocated in the Council’s Cost of Living support fund. *based on the existing criteria for the school clothing grant.” 32
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There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. (4) a motion by Councillor McDonald, seconded by Councillor Cullinane, in the following terms: “Council instructs officers to work to implement expanded free school meals to all P6/7s for the 2024/25 Academic year, commencing August 2024, for those not currently eligible and the cost of up to £1.403m would be covered by utilising the Service Concession Council reserves.” Members asked questions of clarification of the mover of the motion and the Section 95 Officer in respect of the following: • the proposed source of funding and whether it would be for just one year; • whether the intention of the motion was that a report be presented on this matter or that the decision be implemented; • whether any staff would be employed on a one-year fixed term contract; • the financial implications of using reserves; • whether the £1.4 million included the cost of food, staff and any kitchen upgrades; • separate provision for related capital costs, including the cost of reopening kitchens which had been closed; • the potential impact of not being in a position to continue providing the service in future; and • the feasibility of undertaking necessary works to allow implementation from the start of the academic year. In terms of Standing Order 15.1, Councillor Macaulay, seconded by Councillor Burns, moved the direct negative. There followed debate and summing up. On a division and a roll call vote, there voted for the amendment, Councillors Billings, Burns, Collier, Davidson, Dickson, Gurney, Hill, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McLean, McTiernan and Robertson (13) and for the motion, Councillors Bell, Cullinane, Kerr, McDonald, McPhater, D. Reid, Stalker and Sweeney (8), Councillors S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Inglis, Marshall, D.L. Reid and Stephen abstaining, and the amendment was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed not to proceed. 33
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(5) a motion by Councillor Robertson, seconded by Councillor Burns, in the following terms: “Council agrees the increasing rate of violence against public sector workers is unacceptable and therefore agrees to sign up to UNISON’s Violence at Work Charter. In recognition of the importance of the safety of employees, signing up to the Charter would mean that North Ayrshire Council has committed to: 1. a written violence and aggression at work policy, which is available to all staff, with a policy that also covers lone working. 2. responsibility for implementing these policies lies with a senior manager. 3. measures taken to reduce staff working in isolated buildings, offices or other work areas to a minimum. 4. encouraging staff to report all violent incidents and they are told how to do this. 5. collecting and monitoring data on violent incidents on a regular and ongoing basis. 6. where they are in place, union safety reps are able to access this data and are consulted on solutions to issues relating to violence in the workplace. 7. thorough risk assessments are conducted for staff placed in vulnerable situations. 8. support pathways in place for staff who are victims of violence at work, so that they know where to turn for advice and support. 9. training to ensure staff are aware of the appropriate way to deal with threatening situations. 10. where appropriate, independent counselling services are available to staff who are the victims of violence at work.” A Member asked a question of clarification of the Section 95 Officer with regard to any changes which may require to be made to Council policy as a result of the motion. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. 14. Urgent Items There were no urgent items. The meeting ended at 4.00 p.m. 34
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PROVOST’S REPORT For the period covering: 18 March – 5 May 2024 The attached report gives a summary and brief details to Council, of meetings and events attended by the Provost of North Ayrshire Council, Councillor Anthea Dickson. Agenda Item 4 35
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PROVOST’S REPORT • • • 1 PROVOST’S REPORT For the period covering: 18 March – 5 May 2024 Since the last meeting of the Council, I have taken part in many events, including: Topping Out Ceremony, Montgomerie Park Primary School, Irvine, 20 March On 20 March, I was in Montgomerie Park, Irvine for the topping out ceremony of the brand-new Early Years and Primary School, which is also the Council’s first Passivhaus school. This new facility will be a place where sustainability and education come together to create a nurturing environment for learning. HMS Dasher Memorial Service, Ardrossan, 24 March On 24 March, the Depute Provost attended the HMS Dasher Memorial Service in Ardrossan. A parade took place followed by a service at Dasher Memorial Gardens. Local organisations and members of the public came together to remember the many lives lost when the ship tragically sank on 27 March 1943. Photocall for the “Bin it to Win it” initiative, Cunninghame House, Irvine, 27 March On 27 March, I attended a photocall to promote the “Bin it to Win it” campaign. This new initiative is designed to reward people for disposing of their litter in a responsible manner. Working in partnership with Keep Scotland Beautiful (KSB) and LitterLotto this is a pilot initiative to encourage more people to place their litter in a bin and develop habits to always dispose of their litter responsibly. Duke of Edinburgh Awards, Presentation Evening, St. Matthew’s Academy, Saltcoats, 27 March On the evening of 27 March, I attended the presentation evening of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme in St. Matthew’s Academy, Saltcoats. This was an inspiring event where we learned about the remarkable achievements of the participants and their personal journey through the programme. 36
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PROVOST’S REPORT • • • 2 North Ayrshire Schools’ Flagship Concert, Dalry Primary School, 28 March On 28 March, the Depute Provost attended then North Ayrshire Schools’ Flagship Concert in Dalry Primary School. Pupils from across North Ayrshire put on an amazing show highlighting the exceptional musical talents and skills that they have. It was a privilege to be able to acknowledge the efforts of these pupils and the excellent support they receive from staff. Saltcoats, Ardrossan and Stevenston Royal British Legion Scotland Branch, Centenary Celebration, Saltcoats, 13 April On 13 April, the Depute Provost attended the centenary celebration of the Saltcoats, Ardrossan and Stevenston Branch of the Royal British Legion. The centenary was marked with a parade and church service which was attended by many. The branch was formed in April 1924 and the organisation are still active in the local community supporting veterans and community initiatives. 2024 Ship Ahoy! Exhibition, Scottish Maritime Museum, Irvine, 20 April On 20 April, I officially opened the prestigious 2024 Ship Ahoy! Exhibition in the Scottish Maritime Museum in Irvine. The Exhibition is managed by a committee of volunteers who have a passion for the maritime heritage on the west coast of Scotland and beyond. There were loads of maritime memorabilia, photographs, artefacts and over thirty model steamers on show. There were also plenty of enthusiasts around who were happy to explain in detail our local maritime history. West Of Scotland Padel Tournament, Industrial Estate, Stevenston, 21 April On 21 April, I attended the finals of the West of Scotland Padel Tennis Grade 1 LTA Tournament held in Stevenston Industrial Estate. The Tournament attracted competitors from all over the country. Padel tennis is an increasingly popular sport with a thriving club in Stevenston run by enthusiastic volunteers. Mr and Mrs Robert Hunter, Diamond Wedding Anniversary, Largs, 1 May On 1 May, I had the pleasure of visiting Mr and Mrs Hunter to mark their diamond wedding anniversary. The couple, who now reside in Largs, were married in St Columba’s Church, Kilbirnie in April 1964. It is always a great honour to be able to mark these milestones in people’s lives and get the opportunity to meet with them and offer congratulations on behalf of the Council. 37
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PROVOST’S REPORT • • • 3 John Galt Day, Irvine, 2 May John Galt, Scottish novelist and entrepreneur, was born in Irvine on 2 May 1779. To mark this notable date, I attended a brief ceremony on 2 May, arranged by Irvine Burns Club, at Galt’s birthplace at 167 High Street in Irvine. Galt became Irvine Burns Club’s first honorary member in 1828 and the Club is a member of the John Galt Society. Councillor Anthea Dickson Provost North Ayrshire Council 38
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Official Information Official Information LEADER’S REPORT For the period covering: 18 March – 5 May 2024 The attached report gives a summary and brief details to Council, of meetings and events attended by the Leader of North Ayrshire Council, Councillor Marie Burns. Agenda Item 5 39
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LEADER’S REPORT • • • 1 Official Information Official Information LEADER’S REPORT For the period covering: 18 March – 5 May 2024 JOINT YOUTH CABINET, 19 March On 19 March, I was delighted to take part in the Joint Youth Cabinet held at Saltcoats Town Hall. Together with Cabinet members and senior officers from North Ayrshire Council, we were able to engage with young people from various localities in North Ayrshire, including the Youth Council Executive and recently elected Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament. Joint Cabinet is a vital part of the Council’s Youth Participation strategy, it allows young people to learn more about how their local authority operates while at the same time, share their views on a range of subjects. Discussions focused on: • Budget Engagement – Closing the Engagement Loop • Employability and Next Steps • Space and Places for Young People • Bullying • The Cost of Living Thank you to all the young people who took part especially our new MSYPs, Adam Johnson, Rhyan Gorrie, Freya Fitzsimmons and Emma Burns for attending their first Joint Cabinet meeting as Members of Scottish Youth Parliament. NHS AYRSHIRE AND ARRAN AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE, 20 March On 20 March, I attended an NHS Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) meeting where attendees discussed various Audit and governance papers. The Committee also received reporting on Fraud with an update on the Counter Fraud Services Strategy. The Committee also approved the ARC Annual report before submitting to the NHS Board for final approval. MONTGOMERIE PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL TOPPING OUT CEREMONY, 20 March Later on 20 March, I attended a “topping out” ceremony to mark the latest developments in the construction of Montgomerie Park Primary school in Irvine. Montgomerie Park Primary school will be the first “Passivhaus” school in the area, meaning it will provide a high level of comfort 40
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LEADER’S REPORT • • • 2 Official Information Official Information while using very little energy for heating and cooling. The school will use significantly less energy than a typical school building resulting in lower carbon emissions and lower energy bills. Initial work began on the new school in March 2023 and will accommodate up to 342 pupils plus an early learning and childcare facility with 32 places. Work should be completed by the end of the year and I look forward to returning to see the project upon completion. COSLA CONVENTION, 22 March On 22 March, I attended the COSLA Convention where attendees discussed the following items: • COSLA Budget for 2024/25 • COSLA Mid-term report • Verity House Agreement • Population Strategy The COSLA Plan 2022-27 was approved by the Convention in June 2022. The Mid-Term report shows progress to date and next steps to be completed by the end of the current local government term in 2027. NHS AYRSHIRE AND ARRAN BOARD MEETING, 26 March On 26 March, I attended an NHS Ayrshire and Arran Board meeting where attendees approved the Blueprint for Good Governance Improvement Plan and also approved the Governance structure and changes to the Integration Joint Board (IJB) membership. The Board also received updates on some of the key items from the most recent meetings of the Audit and Risk Committee, HealthCare Governance Committee and Staff Governance Committee. The Board also approved the Capital Investment Plan for 2024 – 29 and the Internal Audit Plan for 2024 – 25. Minutes from Integration Joint Board meetings held for East, South and North Ayrshire Councils in October and November 2023, were also agreed. 41
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LEADER’S REPORT • • • 3 Official Information Official Information NHS AYRSHIRE AND ARRAN ENDOWMENT TRUSTEES MEETING, 28 March On 28 March, I attended a meeting of the NHS Ayrshire and Arran Endowment Trustees. The Committee considered the draft Endowment Budget for 2024 – 25 and also received an overview of the Restricted Funds budget. TACKLING CHILD POVERTY AND COST OF LIVING BOARD MEETING, 17 April I chaired a meeting of the Tackling Child Poverty and Cost of Living Board on 17 April, where attendees were provided with an update on the progress of the Child Poverty Action Plan 2023-24 and also an update on the work taking place with the newly developed online participation strategy. The Board also received a presentation on the work currently being undertaken on the Single Shared Assessment. North Ayrshire’s Single Shared Assessment will inform decision making and provide residents with assistance more quickly through a whole-system approach offering immediate and longer-term support to lift people out of the cycle of poverty. This project seeks to ensure that the significant demand for financial support is delivered more effectively through streamlined referral pathways and a holistic approach to the provision of support across all three key drivers of child poverty. SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PLACE AND WELLBEING-COMMUNITIES CORE GROUP MEETING, 18 April On 18 April, I attended a Scottish Government Place and Wellbeing-communities core group meeting. The meeting discussed the role of the third sector in supporting community health and wellbeing and was primarily focused on evidence. Rachel Baker from the Common Health Assets project lead a discussion on how their research project will support this work. MEETING WITH THE FARM ENERGY COMPANY, 19 April On 19 April, together with Russell McCutcheon, North Ayrshire Council’s Director for Place, I met with representatives of the Farm Energy Company to discuss their renewable energy plans and projects following a presentation on their joint work with local company, GlaxoSmithKline. 42
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LEADER’S REPORT • • • 4 Official Information Official Information NHS AYRSHIRE AND ARRAN HEALTHCARE GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE, 22 April On 22 April, I attended an NHS Ayrshire and Arran Healthcare Governance Committee where attendees received reports on patient safety and patient experiences. Attendees were also provided with an assurance report on systems and processes in place for Neonatal services. The Committee were also asked to note and approve minutes from various corporate governance committees and groups including the Acute Services Clinical Governance Group, the Paediatric Clinical Governance Group, the Area Drug and Therapeutics Committee and the Primary and Urgent Care Clinical Governance Group. COSLA LEADERS’ MEETING, 26 April On 26 April, I attended a meeting of COSLA Leaders’. It was another packed agenda which included the following items for discussion: • Teacher Numbers, class contact time and SNCT issues • Education Assurance Arrangements • Children’s Services Social Care - £12 per Hour uplift in 2024-25 • Scottish Government/Local Government Joint Digital Strategy – Progress • Publication of Local Government Workforce report • Persistent Organic Pollutants • Joint Address by Chief Constable and SPA Chair • Pay Negotiations Review • Pay – SJC Pay Negotiations Update and Options • Verity House Agreement Dispute Resolution Procedure • Local Government Finance update • National Care Service The report with the Joint Address by the Chief Constable and SPA Chair provides an overview of strategic policing priorities, current engagement and key areas of work between COSLA, Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority (SPA). Throughout 2023, COSLA officers worked with Police Scotland and SPA officials to develop the Partnership Delivery Plan. The 43
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LEADER’S REPORT • • • 5 Official Information Official Information Plan describes both existing and new areas of partnership working between COSLA, PSoS and the SPA. Some of the new commitments from the Plan include: • COSLA and the SPA will deliver a series of joint webinars on local scrutiny approaches and best practice in 2024. • Police Scotland will engage with the SPA and COSLA on the development of local performance reporting to support future development to meet the needs of local scrutiny and policing. • SPA will work with local authorities (through COSLA) to shape a future wave of independent public polling on policing to obtain insights of relevance to the work of local authorities. • COSLA and Police Scotland will work on the development of a joint Framework for Collaboration in partnership with SOLACE, which will set out high-level principles and guidance for local collaboration, such as colocation initiatives, between Police Scotland and local authorities, as well as highlighting good practice. VISIT TO CHILDREN 1st, 30 April On 30 April, together with the Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and the Islands, Councillor Alan Hill, the Young People’s Champion, Councillor Chloé Robertson and North Ayrshire Council’s Director for Communities and Housing, David Hammond, I visited Kirsty Aitken and the team at the Irvine premises of the Children 1st charity organisation. Children 1st works to keep children safe, loved and together with their families. The charity offers practical, emotional and financial support to prevent and protect children and their families from harm and to support them to recover from trauma and abuse. The charity has been successful in receiving some money from our Community Investment Fund which is being used to fund a new post to strengthen the team and to continue the great work with children and families throughout North Ayrshire. This particular visit was to hear more about the charity’s approach and impact of the support they offer. IRVINE LOCALITY PARTNERSHIP MEETING, 30 April Later on 30 April, I attended an additional meeting of the Irvine Locality Partnership at the Fullarton Hub. The Partnership were asked to consider a Community Investment Fund application from the Irvine Cricket Club. 44
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LEADER’S REPORT • • • 6 Official Information Official Information VISIT BY COSLA PRESIDENTIAL TEAM, 1 May On 1 May, together with North Ayrshire Council Depute Leader, Councillor Shaun Macaulay and North Ayrshire Council Chief Executive, Craig Hatton, we welcomed the COSLA Presidential Team to Cunninghame House. This was the first visit to Cunninghame House by the current COSLA President, Councillor Shona Morrison and provided the opportunity to discuss NAC work priorities and areas of joint work and co-operation. Councillor Marie Burns Leader of North Ayrshire Council 45
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL 15 May 2024 Council Title: North Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Board: Minutes of Meeting held in March 2024 Purpose: To submit the Minutes of the meeting of the North Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership Board held on 15 March 2024. Recommendation: That Council the Council notes the Minutes contained in Appendix 1. 1. Executive Summary 1.1 It was previously agreed that the Minutes of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Board be submitted to North Ayrshire Council for information. The key matters arising from the minutes have been highlighted for the attention of Council and are detailed in Section 2.1. 2. Background 2.1 Minutes of the meeting of the CPP Board held on 15 March 2024 are appended. This meeting focused on the Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP) ‘Work’ priority and digital projects across the CPP. Particular matters for the Council's attention include the following: Meeting of 15 March 2024 Agenda Item 3 CPP partners received their annual update from the thematic group supporting the LOIP ‘Work’ priority- the Local Employability Partnership. This included an overview of key trend data, the ‘Your Next Move’ careers event which took place on 5th March 2024 and was attended by 700 young people, and plans for Employability Week which takes place between the 27th and 31st May 2024. Agenda Item 4 This is currently a standing item. CPP partners received an update on the work of the Child Poverty and Cost of Living Board. North Ayrshire Council has allocated £1.2 million over a three-year period to the Child Poverty and Cost of Living Fund, with a total of £400k allocated each year. In 2023-24, £231k has been allocated to date for school meal debt (£61k), school devices (£170k) and a small amount for promotional materials Agenda Item 7 47
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for the No Wrong Door campaign. The CPP Board were also updated around potential proposals for future funding: • Lend and Mend initiative • Financial education in schools • Rainbow house – families and young people with disabilities • Food larders Agenda Item 5 CPP Partners received an update around current Single Shared Assessment and data work resourced through Child Poverty Practice Accelerator Funding (CPAF) awarded in October 2023. North Ayrshire Council currently provides a wide variety of services and supports, however different benefits and grants must be applied for separately. The purpose of the Single Shared Assessment project is to collect as much information about the customer as possible, with their permission. This, with their consent, can be used to determine what a person is entitled to, what they currently receive and how the Council and other partners can help and support them, providing a more person-centred approach. This will act as a tool to further support our community. The immediate next steps include an officer workshop to scope the next stages of the project and development of a detailed delivery plan. Agenda Item 6 Partners received an update on development and implementation of the new North Ayrshire Community Directory via the CPP website. During the pandemic, Locality Community Books were published on the CPP Website which signposted people to help and support. Rather than have a printed version of supports available, the team were tasked to develop a new digital Community Book solution. This led to the updated CPP website and new Community Service Directory. The Directory has been developed using ALISS (A Local Information System for Scotland) open data which allows the community and partners to take ownership of the data and update local information themselves. The interface can be filtered through key words, distance from an address or North Ayrshire Locality. Next steps include: • Working with colleagues to launch the new directory with community and partners • Working with HSCP to support the move of data from CARENA to ALISS database • Staff training around the new site and uploads to ALISS 3. Proposals 3.1 That the Council notes the Minutes contained in Appendix 1. 4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty Financial 48
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4.1 None. Human Resources 4.2 None. Legal 4.3 None. Equality/Socio-economic 4.4 None. Environmental and Sustainability 4.5 None. Key Priorities 4.6 The CPP activities detailed within this report support the Local Outcomes Improvement Plan. Community Wealth Building 4.7 None. 5. Consultation 5.1 No consultation was required. David Hammond Executive Director Communities and Housing For further information please contact Jacqui Greenlees, Senior Manager (Policy, Performance and Community Planning), on 01294 324415. Background Papers Appendix: 1 CPP Board Minutes, 15 March 2024 49
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Community Planning Partnership Board Friday 15 March 2024 at 11.15 am Via Microsoft Teams Present North Ayrshire Council Cllr Marie Burns, Elected Member (Chair) Cllr John Bell, Elected Member Cllr Scott Davidson, Elected Member Cllr Alan Hill, Elected Member Cllr Shaun Macaulay, Elected Member Craig Hatton, Chief Executive (NAC) Audrey Sutton, Executive Director David Hammond, Head of Service Department of Work and Pensions Sheila Lynn, Service Leader NHS Ayrshire and Arran Claire Burden, Chief Executive Lisa Davidson, Assistant Director of Public Health Police Scotland Raymond Higgins, T/Chief Superintendent Ayrshire College Angela Cox, Principal and Chief Executive Scottish Enterprise Brian Connolly, Engagement Partner Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Ian McMeekin, Local Senior Officer Scottish Government Sam Anson, Place Director Scottish Partnership for Transport Allan Comrie, Senior Transport Planner Skills Development Scotland Shona Mitchell, Head of Operations South-West In Attendance Jacqui Greenlees (NAC), Jennifer McGee (NAC), Lesley Dunlop (NAC), Laura Neill (NAC), Sheila Paisley (NAC), Tracy Simpson (NAC), Elaine Nixon (NAC) Apologies Vicki Yuill (Arran CVS), Rhonda Leith (NAC), Caroline Cameron, (NAHSCP), Cllr Timothy Billings, Elected Member, Cllr Margaret Johnson, Elected Member, Julie McLachlan, (Scottish Government), Kaileigh Brown, Executive Director 50
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1. Welcome and Apologies The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting and apologies for absence were noted. 2. Minute of the Previous Meeting The minutes of the Board meeting held on 7 December 2023 were approved. 3. Local Employability Partnership Update The Chair invited Laura Neill to provide the Board with an update on the work of the Local Employability Partnership (LEP). L Neill advised the Board that her previous update was in September 2023 and she would provide an update on activity and engagement from then until February 2024. L Neill highlighted: Young People (16-24 year olds) Data Hub: improving engagement SLDR Feb: 96.5% positive destinations - 8th highest - Scotland 95.9% Your Next Move: Careers Event: 5th March 2024; 700 young people attended Parents, long term unemployed, people with convictions Skills for Life: 70 people supported Recruitment Events: local employers Parent Group: Service User Involvement/SG Advisory Panel Criminal Justice Employability Mentors Closing the Disability Employment Gap (people with disabilities & long term health conditions) Eglinton Garden SQA Accredited Centre Cycle Maintenance & Recycling Reverse Jobs Fair: 13th March 2024 No One Left Behind Grants Programme 12 Providers: Third Sector 230 new people to be supported: 80 supported Increased reach Ayrshire Growth Deal Working for a Healthy Economy Ayrshire Skills Investment Fund: Ayrshire College Programme, Employer Grants Programme Future Opportunities • The Equal Programme 5th Anniversary: 11th May 2024 • Employability Week 27th – 31st May 2024, range of activities taking place • Skills for Life - Green Jobs Academy, Classroom Assistants, Step into Business, Care at Home, Facilities Management • Youth Programmes • Employability Framework: Contracting • Fair Start Scotland: Referrals end: 31st March 2024 • All Referrals to Your Next Move, Working North Ayrshire 51
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The Chair invited comments and questions from the Board. • Cllr Macaulay asked about the long term aspect of the positive destinations for young people. S Mitchell informed that SDS compile statistics for school leavers on the first Monday of October and the first Monday of April. L Neill highlighted that the Data Hub is used to compile statistics and continue to mentor the young people on the Hub. • Cllr Macaulay also asked who delivers the Skills for Life programme as there is a programme in Irvine Royal Academy. L Neill informed that North Ayrshire Council delivers the programme and will link in with Irvine Royal. L Neill added that there is a new programme in place in schools for classroom assistants which is a good opportunity for parents as it is term time. • A Cox thanked L Neill for her input and asked about the Green Jobs Academy and if it could align with the Future Skills Hub at Kilwinning Campus. L Neill responded that is in the process of being set up via the Net Zero Accelerator Programme and that the College provides the training. She commented that she would welcome the opportunity to enhance this if possible. • A Cox also enquired how L Neill aligns with the other two LEPs in Ayrshire to make sure there are no barriers due to postcode and that everyone has the same opportunity. L Neill advised that the three LEPs meet regularly and try to deliver regional programmes. • A Comrie enquired about the effect of bus passes for young people and if the cost of transport had been detrimental to them previously. L Neill informed that the bus pass has mobilised young people and that previously transport had been a barrier. Without the cost of travel young people are better off. This has been extended to parents and has had a massive increase in parents participating in work and training. The Chair thanked L Neill for her presentation and acknowledged the opportunities for joint working. 4. Child Poverty and Cost of Living The Chair highlighted that she is very happy with the progress made since the inception of the Board and thanked everyone for their support. Mini enquiries have been very helpful in bringing everyone together. The Chair spoke of A Sutton’s impending retirement, conveyed her thanks and wished her a happy retirement. The Chair also introduced Sam Anson who has been appointed as the new Executive Director for Education and Wellbeing and David Hammond who has been appointed as the new Executive Director for Communities and Housing in the recent restructure of the Council and welcomed them to their roles. Audrey Sutton provided the Board with an update on Child Poverty and Cost of Living. A Sutton highlighted the following: North Ayrshire Council has allocated £1.2 million over a three-year period to the Child Poverty and Cost of Living Fund, with a total of £400k allocated each year. In 2023-24, £231k has been allocated to date for school meal debt (£61k), school devices (£170k) and promotional materials for the No Wrong Door campaign (£168). Proposals for current fund • No Wrong Door + - £50k • Sustainable childcare provision - £20k • Employability travel plans - £50k • Poverty focused Active Schools program - £20k Proposals for future funding 52
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• Lend and Mend initiative • Financial education in schools • Rainbow house – families and young people with disabilities • Food larders Reporting Requirements • Cost of Living Cabinet update – May 2024 • Child Poverty annual report to Cabinet and Scottish Government – June 2024 • Children’s Services Plan annual report contribution – June 2024 Child Poverty and Cost of Living Work to Date • Child Poverty Strategy and Annual Reports • Cost of Living – six monthly reports to Cabinet • Mini-enquiry person centred approach to evidence gathering • Development of suite of performance measures • No Wrong Door Concept • Child Poverty and Early Intervention Fund: £1.2m over three years • Single Shared Assessment – CPAF award to progress for national benefit • Data sharing pathfinder work with SG, IS etc • Invitation to become involved in the national child poverty pathfinders A Sutton also highlighted some of the work being progressed: No Wrong Door Staff Awareness, comms and monitoring; partners Data sharing pathfinder Work with SG and partners Single Shared Assessment Work with SG and Council services Child Poverty Pathfinder Scope with SG and partners Performance data baselining and collection Complete baseline and develop trend information and narrative The Chair invited comments and questions from the Board. • Cllr Bell acknowledged that it is great to see the amount of work going on and he is sad to see A Sutton leaving as she was fundamental in establishing and progressing the child poverty approach in North Ayrshire. He noted the input to sustainable childcare but highlighted that the changes to early years will have an impact particularly in rural areas. He asked how long it would take to collate the data to match parents to available places that are local to them. A Sutton informed that childcare, and specifically out of school and childminding services, was hit particularly hard due to Covid with people working at home and finding different ways to manage their childcare. A number of providers closed and childminders sought other employment. This is the reason a further £20,000 was received from the Scottish Government to explore rural and island childcare. North Ayrshire Council is trying to encourage people back into the sector. They have funding available to assist and are speaking to people who may be interested. A Sutton is happy to ask L Forsyth and perhaps L Kerr to attend the next Garnock Valley Locality Partnership to give an update. • S Anson highlighted that it was really positive to see the ELC hourly rate confirmed at £12 per hour last week. He enquired if NAC has heard of the Public Health approach to learning at work which is in the early stages. A Sutton advised that work has been taking place around the Health Inequalities Impact Assessment and that Jacqui Greenlees would be really interested to discuss this project with S Anson. The Chair thanked A Sutton for her update. 53
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5. Transformation The Board received a presentation from Sheila Paisley and Elaine Nixon regarding Single Shared Assessment and Data Work. S Paisley thanked the Chair for the invitation to today’s meeting and for the support from herself and A Sutton for the programme. S Paisley provided an overview of the Single Shared Assessment work that has been undertaken over the last two years and the reasons for this including: • Access - To understand, listen and work with our customers; responding to their needs and keeping them informed; making it easy for them to interact and access our services and to actively encourage them to be participants in what we do. • Financial Inclusion - To ensure our customers are given the right advice at the right time, whilst maximising benefit entitlements and supporting better outcomes. • The principles behind the assessment such as single point of contact, streamlined customer journey, one assessment for means tested benefits, income maximisation for customer and centralised debt advice and support. • The outcomes include the above-mentioned principles and also improved customer service, standardisation of processes, and single customer record for services among others. S Paisley highlighted the process including: • Finding out what the problem is for both customers and North Ayrshire Council • What we need to do? • The drivers for change • The vision • Risk of no change S Paisley also highlighted that the current pathway is complex with many ways to get support. It is good to have the support available however we need to understand how it works to assist the customer. E Nixon informed the Board that North Ayrshire Council currently provides a wide variety of services however it feels disjointed. Different benefits and grants must be applied for separately. The future plan is to get as much information about the customer as possible, with their permission, and this can be used to determine what they are entitled to, what they receive and how we can help and support them. At the moment we can only use the data for what they provide it for. The purpose of the Single Shared Assessment is to ask consent to use their information to provide a more holistic approach. This would be a tool to further support families and make a difference to them in the future. S Paisley provided an outline of the programme that is in place working alongside partners to support customers. She highlighted progress since the Child Poverty Practice Accelerator Fund (CPAF) Grant was awarded in October 2023. Next steps include: • Further stakeholder engagement • Customer services discussion/options workshop 2 • ELT options/recommendations report and phased plan. The Chair thanked S Paisley for her presentation. 54
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6. CPP Website Update The Chair invited Jacqui Greenlees to share her update on the CPP Community Directory. J Greenlees highlighted that during the pandemic Locality Community Books were published on the CPP Website which signposted people to the help and support they may need which led to the development of Cost of Living and crisis resources via CPP website. Rather than have a printed version of supports available the team were tasked to develop a new online Community Book solution. This led to the updated CPP website and new Community Service Directory. The Directory was developed using ALISS (A Local Information System for Scotland) data which allows the community and partners to take ownership of the data and update local information. Support is provided by The Alliance around development via the ALISS User Group. In order to complete this task the CPP website required to be updated. This update is now complete. J Greenlees shared a short tour of the Community Directory with the Partnership. She explained it is still being tested out and so far no anomalies have been found. The Community Directory can be found on the CPP website via the link below: https://northayrshire.community/services J Greenlees informed of the next steps which are • Working with Comms colleagues to launch the new directory with community and partners • Working with Library service to rebrand and relaunch the Libraries app as the Communities app • Working with HSCP to move data from CARENA to ALISS database • Staff training around the new site and uploads to ALISS Councillor Bell asked if the directory included a database of childminders. A Sutton informed that the No Wrong Door project included redeveloping an information source that included childminders and after school care. The Chair thanked J Greenlees for her update. 7. Partner Updates S Anson highlighted two pieces of legislation that are in process via Community Wealth Building: • Land Reform Bill – this includes improving transparency, working with the community, and community land purchase • Community Right to Buy – this will be launched in summer 2024. S Anson also informed that there will be new census data released next week which will include school support staff, attendance, persistence absence (more than 10% over the school year). I McMeekin asked how far down these statistics will go – will it be Local Authority level or further. S Anson informed that it will be Local Authority level. 8. AOCB The Chair conveyed the thanks of the Board to A Sutton for her contribution to the Partnership over the years and wished her a long and happy retirement. 55
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A Sutton highlighted that the work around communities and Locality Partnerships has been dear to her heart in North Ayrshire and is underpinned by the relationships in the room today and the CPP benefitted from this. The support has been incredible. A Sutton thanked every partner who made it possible and thanked the Chair and Chief Executive for their support over the years. The next meeting of the North Ayrshire CPP Board will be held on Tuesday 11 June 2024 at 11.30 am in Fullarton Connexions, Irvine. 56
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL 15 May 2024 North Ayrshire Council Title: Report of the Returning Officer - Kilwinning By-Election Purpose: To advise on the outcome of the North Ayrshire Council Ward 6 Kilwinning By-Election and on the Declaration of Acceptance of Office by the new Elected Member for that Ward. Recommendation: That the Council notes the result of the Ward 6 Kilwinning By- Election and that the new Elected Member has signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office. 1. Executive Summary 1.1 This report provides details of the result of the North Ayrshire Council Ward 6 Kilwinning By-Election held on Thursday 9 May 2024 and on the signing of the Declaration of Acceptance of Office by the new Elected Member. 2. Background 2.1 The North Ayrshire Council By-Election for Ward 6 Kilwinning was held on Thursday 9 May 2024 with the electronic verification and counting of votes (eCount) taking place on Friday 10 May 2024 in Nethermains Community Centre, Kilwinning. 3. Proposals 3.1 As Returning Officer, I wish to report that Mary Hume, Scottish Labour Party was elected to serve the Kilwinning Ward of North Ayrshire Council from Friday 10 May 2024, with the full complement of Elected Members for the Kilwinning Ward being as detailed below:- Ward 6 Kilwinning Elected Members No of Members elected to the Ward is 4 Councillor Joe Cullinane (existing Member) Labour and Co-operative Party Councillor Scott Davidson (existing Member) Scottish National Party (SNP) Mary Hume (new Member) Scottish Labour Party Donald Reid (existing Member) Labour and Co-operative Party Agenda Item 8 57
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3.2 I wish to further report that the Acceptance of Declaration of Office was duly signed by Mary Hume on 10 May 2024 in the presence of the Council’s Monitoring Officer, Aileen Craig, and in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Local Government (Scotland) Act, 1973. 3.3 The overall ward turnout was 30.2% of the electorate. The total number of ballots received was 4038. Of these, 3996 (98.96%) were considered valid and 42 (1.04%) were rejected. 4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty Financial 4.1 None arising from this report. Human Resources 4.2 None arising from this report. Legal 4.3 None arising from this report. Equality/Socio-economic 4.4 None arising from this report. Environmental and Sustainability 4.5 None arising from this report. Key Priorities 4.6 None arising from this report. Community Wealth Building 4.7 None arising from this report. 5. Consultation 5.1 None arising with this report. Craig Hatton Returning Officer For further information please contact Aileen Craig, Head of Service (Democratic), Monitoring Officer and Depute Returning Officer, on Tel: 01294 324125. Background Papers 0 58
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL 15 May 2024 North Ayrshire Council Title: Composition of Political Groups following the Kilwinning By-Election Purpose: To note the change in the composition of the Opposition Groups following the Kilwinning By-Election. Recommendation: That the Council notes the changes in the composition of the Opposition Groups and that the Labour Group forms the main opposition with its leader being the Leader of the Opposition who is remunerated as a Senior Councillor. 1. Executive Summary 1.1 The composition of the Council has changed as a result of the outcome of the Kilwinning by-election with the Labour Group now forming the largest political opposition group 1.2 In accordance with Standing Orders, the Labour Group will therefore become the main Opposition. The Leader of the Labour Group will be formally recognised as the Leader of the main Opposition and remunerated as a Senior Councillor. 2. Background 2.1 The North Ayrshire Council By-Election for Ward 6 Kilwinning was held on Thursday 9 May 2024 with the electronic verification and counting of votes (eCount) taking place on Friday 10 May 2024 in Nethermains Community Centre, Kilwinning. Councillor Mary Hume was elected to represent the Kilwinning ward resulting in the Labour Group having 10 members elected to serve on the Council. 2.2 The composition of the Council therefore comprises: • 12 SNP Members • 10 Labour Members • 9 Conservative and Unionist Members • 2 Independent Members 2.3 In accordance with Standing Orders, the Administration and Opposition Groups of the Council are as follows unless there are any alliances formed to the contrary: • The Administration – The SNP Group led by Councillor Marie Burns who is the Leader of the Council. • The Main Opposition – The Labour Group, led by Councillor Joe Cullinane. Agenda Item 9 59
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• The Second Opposition – The Conservative and Unionist Group led by Councillor Tom Marshall. The positions of Leader of the Council and Leader of the main Opposition are Senior Councillor positions and remunerated accordingly as agreed by Council on 18th May 2022. Councillor Cullinane will therefore be remunerated as a Senior Councillor. The Leader of the second Opposition Group does not receive enhanced remuneration. 3. Proposals 3.1 That Council notes (i) the changes in the composition of the Opposition Groups and that the Labour Group now forms the main opposition; (ii) recognises that Councillor Joe Cullinane as Leader of the main Opposition now occupies the position of Senior Councillor and is remunerated accordingly and (iii) notes that there is no enhanced remuneration payable to the Leader of the second Opposition. 4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty Financial 4.1 Budget provision is in place for remuneration of Senior Councillors. The substitution of one Elected Member for another as Leader of the main Opposition does not affect budgetary provision. Human Resources 4.2 None arising from this report. Legal 4.3 None arising from this report. Equality/Socio-economic 4.4 None arising from this report. Climate Change and Carbon 4.5 None arising from this report. Key Priorities 4.6 None arising from this report. Community Wealth Building 4.7 None arising from this report. 5. Consultation 5.1 None arising from this report. 60
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Craig Hatton Chief Executive For further information please contact Aileen Craig, Head of Service (Democratic), on 01294 324125. Background Papers 0 61
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL 15 May 2024 North Ayrshire Council Title: Boundaries Scotland: 2023 Review of Scottish Parliament Boundaries Purpose: To further advise Council of Boundaries Scotland’s 2023 Review of Scottish Parliament Constituency Boundaries. Recommendation: That Council a) notes Boundaries Scotland’s 2023 Review of Scottish Parliament Constituencies and the amended proposals for the alteration of the constituency boundary for Cunninghame South following consideration of initial consultation responses; (b) agrees to accept the revised proposals and c) agrees to receive further updates as the Review progresses. 1. Executive Summary 1.1 Boundaries Scotland began its 2022 Review of Scottish Parliament Constituencies in September 2022 and has now published amended proposals following a consultation process in relation to which a response was provided by the Council as agreed on 21st June 2023. 1.2 There are 73 constituencies in Scotland, each of which returns a single MSP. In addition, there are eight regions for Scotland, each region returning seven MSPs from the list. The review does not affect the number of constituencies, regions or the number of MSPs. To ensure electoral fairness as far as possible, each constituency in Scotland should have an electorate as near as possible to the “electoral quota”, which has been set at 59,902 electors. This provision does not apply to the “protected” constituencies of Na h-Eileanan an Iar (the Western Isles), Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands. 1.3 The Commission published its initial proposals for a 4-week consultation on 17 May 2023 and to which the Council responded. Following receipt of consultation responses and the consultation process, amended proposals have recently been circulated for consideration. Changes are proposed to the existing Cunninghame South boundary. There are no changes proposed to Cunninghame North. The proposals for Cunninghame South would result in the incorporation of part of Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley constituency into the Cunninghame South constituency albeit to a lesser extent than that originally proposed. 1.4 Boundaries Scotland will submit final recommendations to the Scottish Parliament by 1 May 2025 Agenda Item 10 63
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2. Background 2.1 Boundaries Scotland (formerly the Local Government Boundary Commission for Scotland) is an independent advisory non-departmental public body which is responsible for reviewing and making recommendations for constituencies and regions of the Scottish Parliament; the number of Councillors on each Council in a local government area; the number of wards for local government elections and their boundaries; and the extent of Council areas. 2.2 The current consultation relates to the boundaries of constituencies of the Scottish Parliament. A further consultation will be issued in relation to the boundaries of the regions in respect of which “list” MSPs are returned to the Scottish Parliament. 2.3 The boundary extent of Scottish Parliamentary constituencies have been unchanged since 2011 and have been used in the 2011, 2016 and 2021 Scottish Parliament elections. This review is required by the Scotland Act 1998 to ensure that there is fairness in electoral representation across all constituencies in Scotland, through having a similar electoral number, with the exception of the constituencies of Na h- Eileanan an Iar (the Western Isles), Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands which have special status. The Review requires to take account of changes in population size and distribution. 2.4 There are 73 constituencies in Scotland, each of which returns a single MSP. In addition, there are eight regions for Scotland, each region returning seven MSPs from the list. The review does not affect the number of constituencies or regions or the number of MSPs. 2.5 The review is based on the electorate on the electoral register on 1 September 2022. The average electorate quota of each Scottish consistency has been set at 59,902 – “the electorate quota”. This is calculated by dividing the total electorate of Scotland (less those in the protected constituencies) and dividing that number by 70 (the number of constituencies) which results is the average electorate of 59,902. 2.6 It is proposed that 21 constituencies will remain unchanged, 26 will retain their name but have their boundaries changed and those which are to change include Cunninghame South and Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley and there will be 25 new constituencies with a new name and boundary extent. 2.7 Boundaries Scotland considers several factors when determining constituencies incorporating geographical considerations, which include the size, shape, and accessibility of a constituency; boundaries of council areas and electoral wards; electoral quota; and any local ties which would be broken by changes in constituencies. 2.8 The Commission published its initial proposals for an 4-week consultation on 17 May 2023. It proposed changes to the existing Cunninghame South boundary. At that point, it was proposed that the boundaries of Cunninghame South and Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley would change to the effect that the boundary of Cunninghame South would extend into East Ayrshire as shown on the map annexed at Appendix 2. The existing boundary of Cunninghame South is shown on the map annexed at Appendix 1. This would have resulted in Cunninghame South having and electorate of 62,113 (+3.7% variation) and Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley having an electorate of 54,297 (- 64
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8.3% variation). The current position is that Cunninghame South contains 51298 (- 14% variation from electoral quota) and Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley 65742 (+10% variation). The proposals for Cunninghame South would result in the incorporation of part of Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley constituency into the Cunninghame South constituency. 2.9 The Council responded to the consultation last year as agreed at the Council meeting on 21st June 2023. Our comments included the following points: • The proposal will result in the constituencies of Cunninghame South and Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley not being fully aligned to local and well established community boundaries. • The proposal is out of step with the localities approach. The areas of the Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley constituency which are proposed for inclusion within Cunninghame South have generally no natural ties with Cunninghame South, having been part of the administrative area of Kilmarnock for some time. They are served by East Ayrshire Councillors and use East Ayrshire services. The proposal breaks existing ties between East Ayrshire Communities. • When a whole constituency sits within North Ayrshire this facilitates the seamless running of elections. It provides clarity to North Ayrshire voters that both candidates and ultimately the elected constituency MSP are focused on serving the population of North Ayrshire. Boundaries also fit with Locality Planning areas. • The Scottish Parliamentary election in East Ayrshire would be organised by different Councils. This could be of particular concern where a Polling Place serves two constituencies. • The proposal would increase the administrative burden on North Ayrshire Council of running the election. Election office staff would need to become acquainted with polling districts and polling places in East Ayrshire and have the necessary arrangements put in place. We would require to augment our staffing levels to facilitate this process which would increase the cost burden on running the election. • There could be voter confusion and a lower voter turnout from Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley voters due to concerns about the rationale for the change, receiving communications from another local authority and concern about whether their interests will be fully represented by an MSP whose constituents are, in the main, from another local authority area. • That whilst we would prefer the constituency boundary of Cunninghame South to remain as it is, taking into account the legislative provision for equality of electorate numbers, it is suggested that the polling districts of Kilmaurs and Fenwick and Waterside are retained within the Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley constituency to bring the number of electors in Cunninghame South more in line with the quota. This would mean that the electorate would be 59,691 in Cunninghame South and 57,349 Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley, meaning a more equitable split of the electorate. 65
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• Comment on the application of the legislative rules. 2.10 Following receipt and consideration of consultation responses and a local inquiry with East Ayrshire Council, Boundaries Scotland have circulated amended proposals for consideration. It is still proposed that the boundary of Cunninghame South is extended into the area currently within the Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley constituency albeit to a lesser extent as shown on the map annexed at appendix 3. This takes into account the consultation response submitted by the Council which while preferring no change in the boundary for the reasons stated, recognised the legislative position and suggested, as a reserve position, a lesser change to the boundary. This has been reflected in the revised proposals to the effect that the polling Districts of Kilmaurs, Fenwick and Waterside are excluded from the new Cunninghame South boundary proposals. This would result in the constituency of Cunninghame South comprising an electorate of 59525 which is closer to the electorate quota Boundaries Scotland strive to achieve. 2.12 In relation to the current revised proposals, Officers would not propose to submit any further comment. This is on the basis that the lesser boundary change suggested as a reserve position, if our general comments to retain the existing boundaries were not accepted, is now proposed by Boundaries Scotland. It is therefore recommended that Council accepts the revised proposals. 2.13 In terms of next steps, Boundaries Scotland will consider any further responses received. Thereafter, subsequent proposals will be published for further consultation if required. A final report on proposals will be submitted to Scottish Ministers by 1st May 2025. 2.14 There are no changes proposed to the Cunninghame North constituency boundary. 3. Proposals 3.1 That Council a) notes Boundaries Scotland’s 2023 Review of Scottish Parliament Constituencies and the amended proposals for the alteration of the constituency boundary for Cunninghame South; (b) agrees to accept the revised proposals and c) agrees to receive further updates as the Review progresses. . 4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty Financial 4.1 There are no financial implications arising from this report. Human Resources 4.2 There are no human resource implications arising from this report. Legal 4.3 There are no legal implications arising directly from this report. 66
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Equality/Socio-economic 4.4 There are no equality/socio-economic implications arising directly from this report. Environmental and Sustainability 4.5 There are no environmental/sustainability implications arising directly from this report. Key Priorities 4.6 There are no implications for key priorities arising directly from this report. Community Wealth Building 4.7 There are no community wealth building implications arising directly from this report. 5. Consultation 5.1 Consultation has taken place with East Ayrshire Council. Previous consultation took place with the Electoral Registration Officer and East Ayrshire Council. Aileen Craig Head of Service (Democratic) For further information please contact Aileen Craig, Head of Service (Democratic), on (01294) 324125. Background Papers Boundaries Scotland’s full proposals are available at Second Review of Scottish Parliament Boundaries | Scottish Boundary Commission 67
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© Crown Copyright and database right 2010 All rights reserved.Ordnance Survey Licence num ber 100022179 0 1Miles 0 2Kilometres ¯ Boundary Commission for Scotland First Periodic Review of Scottish Parliament Boundaries Recommended Scottish Parliament constituencies Cunninghame South County Constituency Constituency boundary Appendix 1 68
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Appendix 2 69
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Appendix 3 70
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL 15 May 2024 North Ayrshire Council Title: Seagate Castle Purpose: To seek Council approval for an allocation of £263,420 from the Irvine Common Good to carry-out stabilisation and conservation works at Seagate Castle, Irvine. Recommendation: That Council approves an allocation of £263,420 from the Irvine Common Good to carry-out stabilisation and conservation works at Seagate Castle, Irvine. 1. Executive Summary 1.1 On 5th March 2020, Council approved the allocation of £250,000 from Irvine Common Good to carry out essential stabilisation and conservation works at Seagate Castle. Unfortunately the progression of these works was delayed as a result of the Covid Pandemic. 1.2 In the interim, design, investigation and preparatory works have been undertaken and pre -consents have been approved for a revised project scope which includes the following: • Full conservation works as detailed by Conservation architects. • Structural protections and supporting works required to protect the structure’s stability and integrity. • Additional and new underground drainage works, imposed by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) as a condition to Scheduled Monument Consent (SMC). • A watching and monitoring role during these phases for the protection and preservation of any archaeological aspects with the Scheduled area of the monument. 1.3 The Council must comply with HES requirements and Statutory obligations as custodian of this listed, ancient monument. 1.4 The total remaining project cost is now estimated to be £452,420 and further allocation of £263,420 is therefore required from the Irvine Common Good. 2. Background Agenda Item 11 71
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2.1 At Full Council on 5th March 2020, a request for £250,000 to the Irvine Common Good was approved by Council for required stabilisation and conservation works at Seagate Castle, Irvine. This was immediately prior to the first Covid lockdown coming into effect. 2.2 At that time, Property Management and Investment had begun working with HES, external conservation architects and conservation engineers with regards to the condition and stability of Irvine’s Seagate Castle. 2.3 Their reports concluded that a number of urgent and essential works required to be carried out to preserve fabric integrity, conserve specific features of importance to our heritage and render the structure safe and stable. 2.4 These works were costed at a sum of approximately £250k and were anticipated then to commence later in 2020, subject to full consent from HES. 2.5 The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant that the works did not progress as planned and subsequently, reassessment of the project was required as a result. 2.6 When it was possible, work recommenced and some elements have progressed, which have included: • Archaeological surveys, investigations and reports. • Meetings and discussions with HES, including on site and investigative works. • Controlled archaeological digs, topographical reports and soil percolation tests. • Scheduled Monument Consent applications. • Vegetation clearance and permitted tree removal. • Design changes and amendments to suit HES and achieve consent. • Phase 1 site construction works to immediately preserve Heraldic emblems forming part of the structure’s detailing. 2.7 The scope of the works now required includes: • Full conservation works to the structure, general fabric and features of the castle. • Structural protection, supporting and stabilisation works required as a result of Conservation Engineer’s reports and HES approvals. • New underground drainage and storm water diversion works imposed by HES as a condition of SMC. • Full archaeological monitoring and reporting in line with HES guidance and statutory aspects of undertaking such works on a Scheduled Monument. 2.8 An external design team remains in place, led by specialist Conservation Architects as the lead consultant and project managers. The relevant consents to undertake the works have now been pre-approved and the Quantity Surveyor has costed the updated design and specification at £452,420, which figure includes professional fees for all remaining works to completion. 2.9 The total project costs, including professional fees, is therefore estimated to be approximately £513,420. 2.10 This figure does allow for some contingency; however, the historic nature of the building means the risk of uncovering additional essential works during the course of the works is high. Additionally, works will at all stages be scrutinised by HES and it is 72
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possible additional works or scope can be imposed by them to allow our continuance of the project. This still has the potential to impact the overall project cost and programme. 2.11 The figures do allow for expected inflationary cost elements related to the further delay required for formal SMC being granted by HES. 2.12 The table below notes the value expended to date, the total overall cost and amount required to completion: Seagate Castle Stabilisation and Conservation Works. Estimated Project Costs, April 2024 Total approved in March 2020 £250,000 Total costs of work caried out to date, including investigative works, professional fees and consent applications £61,000 Estimate of work remaining to be carried out £452,420 Total cost of project £513,420 Total required to completion* £263,420 *NB. the risk of uncovering additional essential works during the course of the works is high. 2.13 The programme below follows the recommendations of the Project Manager to commence the construction works phase in early Spring 2025, thereby avoiding potential additional complication, delay and costs caused by undertaking such nature of works during the later Autumn and Winter months. Additionally, this avoids any works ongoing and the erection of any scaffolding and localised restrictions to pedestrians during the Marymass Festival in August 2024. 2.14 Should funding be approved; works will progress to tender stage and, due to the specialist conservation nature of the scheme, this will be procured though the appointed design team, commencing in June 2024 with formal application for SMC. Currently estimated programme dates are given below: Seagate Castle Stabilisation and Conservation Works. Estimated Project Programme, April 2024 Approval of funding request May 2024 SMC Application June 2024 SMC Approval September 2024 Tender issue October 2024 Tender return November 2024 Contractor Appointment December 2024 Site Start March 2025 Completion* September 2025 *NB. the risk of uncovering additional essential works during the course of the works is high. 73
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3. Proposals 3.1 It is proposed that a further allocation of £263,420 is made from the Irvine Common Good to complete the required stabilisation and conservation works and that these works are progressed immediately through the appointed external design team. 4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty Financial 4.1 Previous approval was given for the allocation of £250,000 from Irvine Common Good. Works to the value of £61,000 have been carried out to date, leaving a remaining approved allocation of £189,000. An additional £263,420 is required to allow all required works to be carried out giving a total project cost of £513,420. The current balance of funds available within Irvine Common Good is £921,756 which would leave a remaining balance of £658,336 if Council agree to allocate this further £263,420. Human Resources 4.2 There are no human resources implications arising from the report. Legal 4.3 The Council must comply with Historic Environment Scotland (HES) requirements and Statutory Obligations as custodian of this listed, ancient monument. Seagate Castle is an Irvine Common Good Asset and Council approval is therefore required. Equality/Socio-economic 4.4 There are no equality implications of the proposal. Climate Change and Carbon 4.5 There are no implications in relation to climate change and carbon. Key Priorities 4.6 If approved, undertaking the works will support the Council’s key priorities of Wellbeing and Communities and Local Democracy through the following outcomes: • Places and public spaces across North Ayrshire are well maintained and accessible. • Our places encourage strong inclusive communities and respect the local environment and cultural heritage. Community Wealth Building 74
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4.7 Seagate Castle plays an important community role in Irvine and the wider North Ayrshire. It also attracts visitors and enthusiasts to the area, thereby increasing opportunities for local businesses through greater footfall and local spend. 5. Consultation 5.1 Consultation has been undertaken with Finance and Legal Services in preparation of this report. 5.2 Full consultation and liaison has also taken place with HES and with appointed archaeological specialists throughout all stages of the project to date, informing this report. Russell McCutcheon Executive Director (Place) For further information please contact Laurence Cree, Senior Manager, Property Management and Investment , on 01294 324463. Background Papers N/A 75
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