220622 Council Minute (Final)
North Ayrshire Council · 21 September 2022
Back to North Ayrshire Council — 21 September 2022 and its agenda
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North Ayrshire Council 22 June 2022 IRVINE, 22 June 2022 - At a Meeting of North Ayrshire Council at 2.00 p.m. Present John Bell, Timothy Billings, Marie Burns, Joe Cullinane, Eleanor Collier, Scott Davidson, Anthea Dickson, Stewart Ferguson, Todd Ferguson, Robert Foster, Scott Gallacher, John Glover, Tony Gurney, Alan Hill, Cameron Inglis, Margaret Johnson, Amanda Kerr, Christina Larsen, Shaun Macaulay, Jean McClung, Nairn McDonald, Matthew McLean, Louise McPhater, Jim Montgomerie, Ian Murdoch, Donald Reid, Donald L. Reid, Chloé Robertson and John Sweeney. In Attendance C. Hatton, Chief Executive; C. Cameron, Director (Health and Social Care Partnership); R. McCutcheon, Executive Director (Place); A. Sutton, Executive Director (Communities and Education); K. Yeomans, Director (Growth and Investment); M. Boyd, Head of (Finance); and A. Craig, Head of Service, M. McColm, Senior Manager (Communications), M. Anderson, Senior Manager (Committee and Member Services) and H. Clancy, Committee Services Officer (Democratic Services). Apologies Tom Marshall, Davina McTiernan, Ronnie Stalker and Angela Stephen. Chair Provost Dickson in the Chair. 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 wholly physical basis, would be webcast. 2. Apologies The Provost invited intimation of apologies for absence, which were recorded. 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.
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4. Previous Minutes The accuracy of the Minutes of the Meeting held on 18 May 2022 was confirmed, subject to the correction of a typographical error within Appendix NAC2 to the Minute, to reflect that Councillor Robertson, rather than her seconder, Councillor Hill, had been appointed to the Corporate Equality Group. The Minutes were then 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 19 May – 12 June 2022. The Provost highlighted the following elements of her written report: • the opening of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh on 21 May 2022; • the Barmill Jolly Beggars’ Burns Club, Platinum Jubilee Celebration on 28 May 2022 and Cunninghame Choir Concert on 29 May 2022; • attendance at a variety of Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations; • the first ever Pride event on the Isle of Arran on 4 June 2022; • the Sir Tom Hunter School Challenge on 9 June 2022; and • participation as a VIP starter at Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life event at Irvine Beach Park on 12 June 2022 The Provost also took the opportunity to wish Members a relaxing summer recess period after a busy schedule. . Noted. 6. Leader’s Report Submitted report by the Leader of the Council for the period from 19 May – 12 June 2022. Noted. 7. Council Minute Volume Submitted, for noting, the Minutes of meetings of committees of the Council held in the period 31 May – 9 June 2022. Noted.
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8. Appointments to Outside Bodies Submitted report by the Chief Executive on a small number of vacancies in respect of appointments to outside bodies and inviting the Council to make further appointments. Appendix 1 to the report provided a list of current appointments and outstanding vacancies. The Head of Democratic Services advised that two nominations had been received, namely (i) a proposal by Councillor Hill, seconded by Councillor T. Ferguson, that Councillor Murdoch be appointed to serve on The Kelburn Castle Restoration Works Trust and (ii) a proposal by Councillor Murdoch, seconded by Councillor Donald Reid, that Councillor Donald L. Reid be appointed to serve on the Scottish Older People’s Assembly. Councillor Hill, seconded by Councillor Davidson, then sought to move the appointment of Councillors Collier and Macaulay to serve on the Hunterston Site Stakeholders Group and the SEEMiS Board of Management, respectively. The Head of Democratic Services advised that insufficient notice of these nominations had been given in terms of Standing Order 8.4, and that the nominations in question should, therefore, be continued for consideration at the next meeting of the Council. The Council agreed as follows: (a) to note the list of current outside body appointments and vacancies set out at Appendix 1; (b) to approve the appointment of (i) Councillor Murdoch to the Kelburn Castle Restoration Works Trust and (ii) Councillor Donald L. Reid to the Scottish Older People’s Assembly; (c) to continue to the next meeting of the Council consideration of the nominations for (i) Councillor Collier to serve on the Hunterston Site Stakeholders Group and (ii) Councillor Macaulay to serve on the SEEMiS Board of Management; and (d) to note that nominations would continue to be sought for the remaining vacancies. 9. Hybrid Meetings of the Council/Committees Submitted report by the Chief Executive on the format of meetings of Council and its committees and future arrangements for holding meetings including webcasting/live- streaming.
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The Chief Executive introduced the report, advising Members that the intention was to seek Members’ views on the future format of meetings in the first instance, in order to develop appropriate protocols and ensure suitable technology was in place prior to bringing a further report to a future meeting of the Council. Members asked questions, and received clarification on, the following: • whether maintaining the status quo would allow for the possibility of remote access to a meeting at short notice in response to issues such as a ferry cancellation; • the benefits of in-person attendance versus reliability issues relating to remote platforms; • the extent to which caring responsibilities had been taken into account and whether any discussion had taken place with the Health and Social Care Partnership on arrangements for meetings of the Integration Joint Board; and • the value of advance notice of which Members would be attending a meeting remotely. On a point of order, Councillor Foster requested clarification on whether this item of business could be the subject of any amendment given that prior notice of amendments had not been given in terms of the new Standing Order provisions. The Head of Democratic Services clarified that prior notice of amendments was applicable only to Notices of Motion and not to other items of business on the Agenda. Councillor Burns, seconded by Councillor Macaulay, moved approval of the recommendations set out in the officer’s report. As an amendment, Councillor DL Reid, seconded by Councillor Murdoch, moved the status quo, with face-to-face meetings being the default position and hybrid meetings being available if required to meet the needs of particular individuals. Members asked questions of clarification in respect of the motion and amendment. There followed debate and summing up. On a division, there voted for the amendment 11 and for the motion 18, and the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed as follows: (a) that, going forward, all meetings of the Council and its committees should take place on a ‘hybrid’ basis as a matter of course, and that basic protocols should apply to ensure their smooth operation, as referenced in the report; and (b) to note that officers were working to identify a cost-effective, fully integrated solution to accommodate the Council’s future hybrid meeting and live- streaming/webcasting requirements
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10. North Ayrshire Council Unaudited Annual Accounts 2021/2022 Submitted report by the Head of Finance on the unaudited Annual Accounts for the year to 31 March 2022. A link to the full set of accounts was provided within the report. Members asked questions, and received clarification, on whether the reserves of 2.9% referred to at Section 2.10 included addressing inflationary costs already covered elsewhere in 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 approve the Annual Accounts for 2021/22, subject to audit; (b) to note that Deloitte LLP planned to complete their audit of the Accounts by mid- September 2022 and would present their annual audit report to the Council’s Audit and Scrutiny Committee on 27 September 2022; and (c) to authorise the Audit and Scrutiny Committee to consider, and approve for signature, the audited annual accounts within the required timeframe. 11. Treasury Management and Investment Annual Report 2021/22 Submitted report by the Head of Finance on the Treasury Management and Investment Annual Report and Prudential Indicators for 2021/22. The Annual Report was set out at 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 to note (i) the Treasury Management and Investment Annual Report for 2021/22 set out at Appendix 1 to the report and (ii) the Prudential and Treasurer Indicators contained therein. 12. North Ayrshire Charitable Trusts: Unaudited Trustees’ Annual Report 2021/22 Submitted report by the Head of Finance on the unaudited Trustees’ Annual Report for the year to 31 March 2022 to the Council, as trustees, for approval. The Trustees’ Annual Report was set out at Appendix 1 to the report.
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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 Trustees of the North Ayrshire Council Charitable Trusts, to approve the Annual Report for 2021/22, set out at Appendix 1 to the report, subject to audit. 13. Questions The Provost introduced this item of business, reminding Members of the new Standing Orders provisions relating to questions. Members were advised that a period of 45 minutes was allocated for consideration of the undernoted questions, the order of which had been determined following the drawing of lots, as set out in Standing Order 14.3. On a point of Order, Councillor Donald Reid requested, and received, clarification on Standing Order 14.3 as it applied to the drawing of lots in circumstances where an Elected Member had asked more than one question. (1) a question by Councillor Billings to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “With regard to waste, can the Cabinet Member advise (i) where the recycled waste collected in North Ayrshire goes for processing, (ii) how much of the waste sent for recycling is processed in the UK, (iii) if any waste is sent outside the UK, how much is sent and what type of waste it is and (iv) what percentage of waste sent for recycling is actually recycled and how much ends up either in landfill or being incinerated?” Councillor Davidson thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: (i) Details of where the Council’s recycling materials go for processing are: Blue Bin Mainland - Domestic Paper and Card Saica Natur, Poplar House, 4 Arches, Croy, Scotland Purple Bin Mainland - Domestic Glass, Cans, Plastic, Cartons Levenseat by Forth, Lanark, Lanarkshire, Scotland Brown Bin Mainland - Domestic/Commercial Garden and Food Waste Enva, Newhousemill Road, Blantyre, Scotland. Blue Bin Arran/Commercial - Paper, Card, Glass, Cans, Plastic, Cartons Re-Gen Waste Ltd, Unit 7, Shepherd's Drive, Carnbane Industrial Estate, Newry, Co. Down, Northern Ireland.
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(ii) 100% of the waste sent for recycling is initially processed within the UK by the Council's recycling contractors. (iii) During the 2021 calendar year, 3833.19 tonnes (13.9%) of the waste separated by our recycling processors was then sent/sold by them to outside of the UK. This is broken down as follows: Metal cans 68.72T Mixed plastics 110.97T Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) 333.8T Glass 2518.59T Paper / Cardboard 801.11T Total 3833.19T (iv) During the calendar year 2021, 90.14% of the kerbside recyclable waste collected was recycled or diverted from landfill/disposal, with the majority of the remaining 9.86% of contamination/non-recyclables being disposed of as a Refuse Derived Fuel for incineration (9.68%), and a small proportion (0.18%) requiring to be landfilled” As a supplementary question, Councillor Billings asked whether the Cabinet Member could get some assurance from contractors that waste sent abroad was actually recycled, so that there could be confidence that such waste was not ending up in landfill or in the sea. Councillor Davidson responded by undertaking to liaise with officers on a response. (2) a question by Councillor Sweeney to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “Following work done by the Labour Administration and Council Officers to pursue the purchase of the former Lonsdale Bar in Stevenston, can the Administration confirm whether they remain committed to bringing the Lonsdale site into council-ownership in order to tackle this derelict blight on Stevenston?” Councillor Gurney, in his capacity as Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change, thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “Valuations have been obtained for the site considering the Gross Market Value (with the benefit of planning consent) and the market value (with the benefit of existing use). The site has recently been marketed for sale. Prior to, and since this, the council has been in communication with the landowner on options for purchase based on market valuations but no agreement has been reached to date. We continue to review the options available.”
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As a supplementary question, Councillor Sweeney, noting that the sticking point in such cases was often the notion of ‘best value’, asked whether the Cabinet Member agreed that best value for the community could not always be measured in pounds and pence and should, in terms of Labour’s Community Wealth Building Strategy, also reflect the social and economic value of a project to the community. Councillor Gurney responded by accepting that value could not always be measured in pounds and pence. The Cabinet Member acknowledged the difficulty associated with this site, noting that when Councillor Cullinane took over as Leader in 2015, he had asked for action for this specific site but that progress had yet to be achieved. Councillor Gurney advised that the new Administration would continue to review the options for the site and do its best for the community. (3) a question by Councillor Johnson to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: "What is the figure of funding North Ayrshire Council receives through Grant Aided Expenditure for 2022/23 and in particular how much of this funding has been allocated to Strathclyde Passenger Transport to subsidise bus routes within North Ayrshire, and is North Ayrshire Council responsible for deciding which routes are deemed necessary for funding?” Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for her question and responded in the following terms: “In the Grant Aided Expenditure (GAE) budget lines which make up the Council’s Budget settlement the relevant GAE lines indicate that for 2022/23 North Ayrshire Council was funded to the level of £2.149m. The agreed requisition to be paid out to Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) for 2022/23 totals £2.496m, therefore from a general funding perspective North Ayrshire Council expends more than is reflected in the GAE funding lines. It is recognised, however, that funding to local authorities is subject to various other changes and adjustments. North Ayrshire Council, along with 11 other former Strathclyde local authorities, fund the SPT on an annual basis. The funding is passed to the individual local authorities as part of the annual budget settlement and then North Ayrshire Council arrange to forward on the agreed contribution direct to the SPT on an annual basis. The total agreed contribution for 2022/23 includes £2.134m in respect of the Core Requisition, £0.286m for Concessionary Fares and £0.076m for Bus stops and shelters. This represents total funding from North Ayrshire Council of £2.496m for 2022/23. This funding is intended to meet the overall operating costs of the SPT, including any costs relating to the subsidisation of bus routes and, importantly, any decisions on which bus routes are to be subsidised and by how much is a matter for the SPT and the bus operators across the former Strathclyde area.”
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(4) a question by Councillor McLean to the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care in the following terms: "Will the authority be making a further breakdown of ‘care experienced’ children in their targeting of support as ‘care experienced’ is a wide, catch-all term that includes people of significantly different backgrounds and needs?” Councillor Johnson thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “We take into account the living arrangements and circumstances when we are administering funds, entitlements, grants and redesigning services that affect the care experienced community as a collective group and also we tailor supports on an individualised basis to appropriately meet the needs of individual care experienced children, young people and their families. Our Corporate Parenting duties guide our strategic and individual child-centred plans. In line with this we do support each young person in a person-centred way and break down ‘care experienced’ in terms of the individualised and targeted support for children and young people. Corporate parenting duties include for example, being alert to things that are harming or may harm a child or a young person’s wellbeing, assessing children and young people’s needs for support and services, promoting children and young people’s interests, seeking to provide children and young people with opportunities to take part in activities designed to promote their wellbeing and to help them make use of services and access support. On an individual basis, each care experienced child and young person has a team around them, or if they are over 21 access to Throughcare and Aftercare support. We know these children and young people all have the same core needs: love, nurturing relationships, support, understanding, care and respect. However, we see and treat every young person as an individual with their own unique talents and circumstances, therefore staff will always adopt a person-centred, strengths-based approach based on the Getting it Right for Every Child Practice model. This ensures that individual needs are identified, and interventions are positioned to meet those individual needs. There are clear review processes in place for each child or young person to make sure plans are on track and that they are thriving. In addition, we have also adopted nurturing and trauma-informed approaches, alongside models which place the views of children, young people and their families firmly at the centre of all planning and decision-making.
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The Promise gives a clear indication of the importance of the needs of the wider care experienced community both individually and collectively. When we look at targeting support to groups of care experienced children, young people and their families, we take into account their unique circumstances. We do our best to ensure our support to the care experienced population is equitable. This is also true when redesigning services, interventions, improvement programmes and developments. We include a broad range of young people with different experiences of the care system in our strategic and operational groups – a good example of this is in the membership of our Promise Operational Group (PROG) and our local Promise Board which are co- chaired by care experienced young people. We also include young people in supporting how we best use resources. For example, we established a ‘Get Connected Fund’ where our Champions Board, a group of care experienced young people, review applications made for funding, and base decisions for awards to individual young people on their own knowledge and experience, with the support and professional guidance of staff. In summary the local authority does tailor supports to individual care experienced children and young people to meet their individual needs and ensure we all discharge our duties as Corporate Parents.” As a supplementary question, Councillor McLean, referring to the Cabinet report of 7 June 2022 on educational achievements, asked if a more detailed breakdown could be provided in respect of the various circumstances of care experienced young people. The Head of Democratic Services advised that, for data protection reasons in terms of GDPR, it may not be possible for the Cabinet Member to provide the level of detailed information requested if it resulted in the possibility of individual children being identified. On a point of order, Councillor Foster queried why an officer appeared to be answering a question which had, in accordance with Standing Order 14.6, been directed to an Elected Member. The Chief Executive clarified that the Cabinet Member would respond to the question and that the Monitoring Officer was providing information in respect of the legal position. Councillor Johnson undertook to liaise with officers in respect of this matter and provide such information as might be possible within the constraints indicated by the Head of Democratic Services.
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(5) a question by Councillor Foster to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: “RPI is currently at 11.1%. As a member of COSLA Leaders, can the Council Leader inform us what they would deem to be a fair pay settlement, and can they outline how they intend to deliver that fair pay deal for North Ayrshire Council staff who like everyone are being impacted by the cost-of-living crisis?” Councillor Burns thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “I am sure we are all aware of the current state of the UK economy and the devasting impact of rapidly rising inflation on our communities and on our workforce. I hope I can speak for every Member in this chamber when I say how much we value our workforce and how much we and the people of North Ayrshire depend on them. I think that was particularly evidenced during the pandemic. Of course we want to get to the best possible pay settlement and all COSLA Leaders want to see that. What I am not going to speculate on, is what that might be. That would be completely irresponsible while negotiations are ongoing. Cllr Foster will be aware that the SNP group at COSLA, supported by the Labour group, put forward a motion to increase the pay offer to 5%. There are funding challenges I am sure we all recognise but we need to speed up the pace of negotiations and get a satisfactory resolution for our workforce as quickly as we can.” As a supplementary question, Councillor Foster, referring to the level of funds previously set aside to meet the pay settlement, asked if the Leader accepted that anything below 11.7% represented a real-term wage cut and if she would take this into account when the matter came back to COSLA Leaders, including how any future pay offer was then communicated to the workforce and the media. Councillor Burns responded by expressing the view that it was the literal job of a trade union to get the best pay deal for its members and so she could understand why the request would be set at that level. The Leader also advised that she, like every COSLA Leader, fully appreciated the impact inflation was having and undertook to take on board the points raised. Councillor Burns invited the Member to advise her outwith the meeting if he had any specific issues around the way the pay offer should be communicated. (6) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: "Can the Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Place provide an update into the planned walking and cycling routes projects and timescale for delivering on this SNP local government manifesto promise for the North Coast?"
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Councillor Gurney, in his capacity as Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change, thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “The currently funded proposals in the North Coast are summarised as follows: A study examining the coastal path between Largs Yacht Haven and Aubrey Park is currently underway. This will cover the feasibility and design elements of a project to improve route legibility and support tourism potential. This is being conducted alongside the ongoing development of the Largs Seawall upgrade proposals to investigate whether there are any feasible and appropriate opportunities arising from the Seawall upgrade. Funding opportunities to support delivery of the enhanced coastal path will be investigated through the feasibility report process. The feasibility work report will be completed by October 2022. Work continues in partnership with Sustrans on the Fairlie Coastal Path. Sustrans have applied to Transport Scotland funding to deliver the final phase. The funding has been approved in principle and we are awaiting a formal award letter prior to completing detailed design, tender and construction. The Local Transport and Active Travel Strategy is currently in development. This will identify priorities for future investment in active travel including across the North Coast. Initial consultation was undertaken between February and April 2022. The output from this is informing the development of the draft strategy. This will be the subject of a 12- week consultation in Summer 2022 including Elected Member sessions after recess. A Cabinet report is planned for early 2023 to consider the final Strategy. Funding applications will be informed by the adopted Strategy going forward.” As a supplementary question, Councillor T. Ferguson made reference to the cycling route around Millport which had been in the pipeline for about ten years and asked whether the Cabinet Member would come together with the North Coast Members to seek to bring the project forward in this Administration. Councillor Gurney responded by expressing a willingness in principle to look into the feasibility of any project in North Ayrshire and advised that he looked forward to hearing more details about the specific project which had been mentioned. (7) a question by Councillor Bell to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: "To ask the Cabinet Member for Education how many teaching and non-teaching posts are funded through the Attainment Challenge Fund?” Councillor Macaulay thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms:
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“Detailed below is the current FTE of teaching and non-teaching staff employed across the Strategic Equity Funding (SEF) workstreams (SEF being £43 million to be shared by all 32 local authorities to invest in approaches to achieving the mission of the Scottish Attainment Challenge (SAC): 2021/22 FTE (as at 14/6/22) Teaching Non-Teaching Total PLA 25.60 2.00 27.60 Nurture 28.46 30.06 58.52 MHWB 2.00 0.00 2.00 Family Learning 0.00 9.60 9.60 Data 0.00 2.00 2.00 Leadership 1.00 1.00 2.00 Attainment HQ 0.00 0.00 0.00 57.06 44.66 101.72” As a supplementary question, Councillor Bell asked how the Administration planned to provide for more teachers, as referred to in election leaflets, while at the same time administering the £4.4m cut to the Attainment Challenge Fund for North Ayrshire, and how cutting £4.4m from projects directly aimed at tackling the attainment gap would serve to close it. Councillor Macaulay responded by advising that the SNP government had committed over £1b last year to support the Scottish Attainment Challenge and indicating that this year that included £5.2m through PEF (Pupil Equity Fund) which would go directly to every school in North Ayrshire and £5.8m through the Attainment Challenge. The Cabinet Member further advised that, in the budget exercise in March 2022, there was no reduction in overall teacher numbers for next year or any detrimental changes to the allocation formula. (8) a question by Councillor McLean to the Cabinet Member for Communities and Islands in the following terms: “Can the Cabinet Member for Place (i) advise what assessment has been done on the viability of Irvine Tennis Club (SCIO) business plan, in order to show that it will be a sustainable club, and not become dependent on grant funding, (ii) confirm whether he has read the ‘strong business plan’ of the club, (iii) provide clarification on the ‘external sources of funding’ referred to in the Cabinet report and (iv) say whether he is concerned at losing over £100,000 in property value?”
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Councillor Hill thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “The CAT process involves a range of NAC Officers, each with a specific expertise. These Officers carry out an assessment of all CAT applications and give feedback on their area of specialism. The Business Plan and the Financial aspects of Irvine Tennis Clubs application were scrutinised by staff in the Business and Finance teams, respectively. Their feedback then formed the basis of the report to Cabinet. The above also included feedback on the fee associated with the asset transfer, with Finance providing a balanced view of any potential capital receipt against the social return on investment. Officers agreed that, based on the location and the status of the site in the Local Development Plan (limited potential for any other kind of usage) the fee levied represented a good return on investment. A CAT allows the community to make enhanced use of the designated open space with a move towards a sustainable tennis provision in Irvine in a way that is in keeping with the ethos of the Community Empowerment Act.” (9) a question by Councillor Cullinane to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: “Given that the SNP did not publish a local manifesto for North Ayrshire ahead of May’s election, can the Leader of the Council advise when they will publish a political programme that their minority Administration intends to deliver on?” Councillor Burns responded in the following terms: “Thanks to Councillor Cullinane for his question and for his attempts over the last couple of weeks to teach me how to run an Administration. Those who watch Councillor Cullinane’s social media will have seen the advice that I should be making more policy announcements, that I should not be working with officers because that shows a lack of political leadership and now I should be publishing a political programme. I do not know how I managed to get here without him. With the greatest respect to Councillor Cullinane, and I genuinely mean that, he is not the Leader of the Council, I am and he needs to take a step back.” As a supplementary question, Councillor Cullinane, expressing the view that in the short time it may be sufficient for the Administration to adopt existing policies but suggesting that in the longer term an Administration trying to deliver on someone else’s plans was probably destined to failure, asked when it might be possible to see the SNP’s political plan given that they did not publish a manifesto.
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Councillor Burns responded by referencing the previous Labour Administration’s readiness to adopt a number of approaches developed by the SNP Administration which preceded it. The Leader advised that, similarly, she had no difficulty in working constructively with the Labour Group. Councillor Burns advised that the SNP consulted the electorate during the election campaign on what the SNP’s priorities would be, including poverty, climate change and local democracy. She further observed that the SNP had been in Administration for only a month and would not be announcing any new policies immediately, but would work with officers and communities on progressing these priorities through proper policy development then make any policy announcements at the appropriate time, for discussion with all groups in the Chambers. (10) a question by Councillor T. Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Communities and Islands in the following terms: “Can the Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Place provide an update into the planned projects to provide more sporting, leisure and cultural opportunities projects and timescale for delivering on this SNP local government manifesto promise for the North Coast?" Councillor Hill thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “North Ayrshire is proud of the vibrancy of community life across the authority, including in the North Coast and Cumbraes. Along with our community partners, the key deliverers of sporting, leisure, and cultural opportunities are North Ayrshire Council and KA Leisure. Appendix 1 [to the circulated written responses] contains an overview of current and planned activity in the North Coast and Cumbraes by North Ayrshire Council and KA Leisure, with updates on the work of community organisations where relevant.” As a supplementary question, Councillor T. Ferguson asked if the Cabinet Member was willing to work with the community group to have the Simpson and Crawford Avenue (West Kilbride) swing-park re-established. Councillor Hill responded by advising he would be happy to meet with the Member to discuss this matter, albeit the more appropriate Cabinet Member in this instance might be Councillor Davidson as Cabinet Member for Place. (11) a question by Councillor D. Reid to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “To ask the Cabinet Member for an update on the B714 upgrade?”
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Councillor Gurney, in his capacity as Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change, thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “The B714 upgrade project is progressing. Project development funding of £1,212,000 to support the project to Outline Business Case (OBC) stage has been received. Further funding allocations will be subject to the OBC approval with a potential 12-week approval period. A tender exercise was undertaken for the road design which saw road design specialists, Aecom, appointed in April 2022. This appointment will initially focus on discussion with landowners to identify a preferred alignment. Discussions have now commenced with landowners and will continue throughout the design process. The work programme includes: surveys, including ecological surveys; environmental scoping; outline design; consultation with landowners, interested parties and utilities; ground investigation; initial safety audits; the planning process; and biosecurity requirements. A parallel landowner negotiation and Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) process will be undertaken to ensure that land acquisition can be achieved and the project delivered within the funding timescales. This is due to the length of the route, number of landowners and timescales for delivery. The preference will be to negotiate and reach agreement with the landowners on the purchase of the land. Council approval will be sought for the CPO process as necessary. The Walking, Cycling and Horse Riding Audit to inform the Business Case is currently underway with engagement sessions planned in late June 2022. Furthermore, £0.1m has been secured from SPT’s Capital Programme to develop the designs for the active travel links.” (12) a question by Councillor Montgomerie to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “In June 2021, Cabinet approved £500.000 of investment to improve coastal play parks. £80,000 from this fund has already been announced for the project led by the community group SALT at Winton Circus, Saltcoats. Can the Cabinet Member outline how the rest of the fund will be invested and when each project is estimated to start?” Councillor Davidson thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “The Council has £500,000 allocated to coastal play parks and also received £235,000 from the Scottish Government to be allocated for inland play parks. A phased approach has been agreed for the installation of the equipment.
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The SALT project equipment has already been procured as it was a supply only contract, the final tender price was £109,288. The SALT group has raised separate funding to pay for the installation. It is expected that the Winton Circus, Saltcoats play equipment will be delivered and installed within a 2-3 month timescale. A separate procurement tender has been issued for the remaining equipment on a supply and installation basis. The tender return date was 17 June 2022. Tenders will be evaluated and a suitable bidder appointed. The tender spec and equipment to be procured was developed following a consultation exercise with local communities to identify suitable play parks and equipment. The play park consultation was twofold. This involved a number of local Ward Member meetings from August to October 2021. A further community consultation took place mid-December 2021 to the end of January 2022 and was based on an e-survey and paper consultation. There were 791 responses received. The exact timescale for the remaining projects can only be identified once a bidder has been appointed; however, it is anticipated installations will commence around August 2022 running though to spring 2023.” As a supplementary question, Councillor Montgomerie asked how much of the funding had been provided by various funds administered by previous Labour Administration; how much other playparks would receive from the fund; and if some of the funding mentioned could be used to support the SALT group in the event of a shortfall. Councillor Davidson undertook to look into the questions raised and respond to the Member in due course. In the meantime, the Cabinet Member took the opportunity to commend the work of the SALT group. The allotted time of 45 minutes having expired, the Provost, at her discretion in terms of Standing Order 14.2, allowed an additional two minutes for questions, to take into account the time taken for the Monitoring Officer to provide legal advice in respect of Councillor McLean’s supplementary question at (4) above.
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(13) a question by Councillor Kerr to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: “Since November 2016, North Ayrshire Council has paid the uprated real Living Wage to its staff from the date of announcement, normally announced in November at the start of Living Wage Week. This year, in light of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the Living Wage Foundation are bringing forward the announcement to September. Will the new Administration match the previous Labour Administration’s commitment and put the uprated real Living Wage into Council staff’s pockets from the date of announcement in September?” Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for her question and responded in the following terms: “I can confirm that, yes, it is the Administration’s intention to pay the uprated Living Wage from the date of the announcement in September.” The Provost intimated that, in terms of Standing Order 14.2, the allotted period of questions had now expired and the remaining questions and responses, as circulated in advance of the meeting, would be taken as read and included in the Minute. On a point of order, Councillor Foster asked whether, in terms of Standing Order 14.2, the Provost would exercise discretion to extend the time period allotted to consideration of questions. The Provost declined to do so. On a further point of order, Councillor Murdoch requested clarification on whether the 45-minute period set out at Standing Order 14.2 commenced with the introduction of this Agenda item or with the start of the first question. The Head of Democratic Services confirmed that the allotted time started with the delivery of the first question. On a further point of order, Councillor Foster requested clarification on how a supplementary question might be submitted in terms of Standing Order 14.4 in circumstances whereby no written response had been circulated at the meeting. The Chief Executive confirmed that outstanding written responses would be circulated immediately after the meeting. (14) a question by Councillor McPhater to the Cabinet Member for Communities and Islands in the following terms: “On 30 November 2021, the previous Labour Cabinet confirmed an additional £3million would be added to the Community Investment Fund they established in 2017. Can the Cabinet Member confirm the level of uncommitted funds still available in the Community Investment Fund?”
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The written response by the Cabinet Member for Communities and Islands was as follows: “The table below summarises the uncommitted funds by locality and the total uncommitted funds remaining as at 12 June 2022. Total starting budget Uncommitted funds 5,600,000 Irvine 1,292,073 Kilwinning 464,810 3 Towns 750,380 Garnock Valley 626,000 North Coast 636,876 Arran 148,774 Balance remaining 3,938,913 (15) a question by Councillor McDonald to the Cabinet Member for Communities and Islands in the following terms: “Can the Cabinet Member advise when the previously approved £350,000 Green Participatory Budgeting initiative will be launched?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Communities and Islands was as follows: “Research into potential delivery models and best practice examples is being undertaken in respect of designing options for a Participatory Budgeting approach to Crowd Funding Environmental Works. This work is ongoing and when concluded will inform the basis of our approach.” (16) a question by Councillor D. Reid to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: “North Ayrshire Council is financially contributing to Ayrshire College’s Future Skills Hub project in Kilwinning. Can the Cabinet Member provide an update on the project?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Education was as follows: “The North Ayrshire Future Skills Hub is a transformational project being led by Ayrshire College. North Ayrshire Council, with others, are contributing towards the funding package in place.
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Ayrshire College has secured an overall funding package of £2.55m. Of this funding package £0.200m is from North Ayrshire Council. Ayrshire College has put in funding of £0.850m. The other funders are Magnox Socio Economic Panel, the Scottish Funding Council and the Ayrshire College Foundation. The contract for constructing the Hub has now been awarded to a local construction firm. The construction work is due to commence in July 2022, with the facility being handed over to the College by August 2023.” (17) a question by Councillor McPhater to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “With the demolition of the back of the King’s Arms, can the Cabinet Member confirm when the Council house development will start?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Place was as follows: “Planning permission and listed building consent have been granted for the main project. Works are planned to commence during Winter 2022/23, following appropriate consultation.” (18) a question by Councillor Foster to the Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change in the following terms: “Earlier this year the Council consulted on the first phase of the concept design for the Great Harbour project in Irvine. Can the Cabinet Member responsible advise us when the results of that consultation will be shared with Elected Members and when can we expect phase 1 of the project, which focuses on the Coastal Hub including the new play facility, to commence?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change was s follows: “A report of the findings from the consultation is being concluded for publication on the Locality Planning website shortly. The findings have been reflected in the design brief for the new play facility which is under development. Current timescales for the commencement of works on this hub of the maritime mile are expected in winter 2022/23.” (19) a question by Councillor Montgomerie to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “In June 2021, Cabinet approved investment in Coastal infrastructure such as new street furniture. Can the Cabinet Member itemise how this funding will be invested and when?”
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The written response by the Cabinet Member for Place was as follows: “The £250,000 for street furniture has been allocated into 4 areas: • Benches • Picnic Benches • Bins • Water Safety Signage The tender for benches and picnic benches was awarded in June 2022 and delivery of the benches and picnic benches will commence in batch deliveries within the next 8 weeks. The tenders for the provision of Bins and Water Safety signage were progressed as separate procurement exercises. This will see important water safety signage erected in coming months at locations across North Ayrshire. The intention is to update signage at all relevant locations. There is a desire from Water Safety Scotland to standardise signage and safety messages across the country and we are currently awaiting confirmation of those messages from Water Safety Scotland so that we can tender for this as a quick quote. In respect of bins an additional 51 bins will be provided within the next 6 weeks to assist in dealing with extra demand. There are 115 new benches and 41 new wheelchair accessible picnic benches being procured. To minimise disruption the contractor will remove one and replace one, so there is no shortage of assets available to the public.” (20) a question by Councillor Bell to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: “To ask the Cabinet Member for Place what impact the delay in the construction of Moorpark Primary School will have on the subsequent Council house development on the adjacent site?" The written response by the Cabinet Member for Education was as follows: “The new Primary School and Council house construction projects are being managed and progressed separately, therefore, current delays to the Primary School do not have impact on the delivery of the Housing project.”
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(21) a question by Councillor Kerr to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: “Can the Leader of the Council advise when the Ardrossan Ministerial Taskforce last met?” The written response by the Leader of the Council was as follows: “The last meeting of the Ardrossan Ministerial Taskforce was held on 23 February 2022. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 28 June 2022.” (22) a question by Councillor McDonald to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “The construction of the new Montgomerie Park Primary School and Early Years Centre has been delayed by a full 12 months. What reassurances can the Cabinet Member provide my constituents in Montgomerie Park that there will be no further delays to this important project?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Place was as follows: “The current challenges within the construction industry as a result of a number of global events have been widely reported and impacted projects across the country. In terms of the new Montgomerie Park Primary School, the impact of these external factors has been the primary cause of the original August 2023 date becoming unachievable. The revised programme plans for the school to be opened for the start of the 24/25 academic year. All parties are committed to meeting this date and continue to navigate through the complex landscape arising from the current market situation.” (23) a question by Councillor Cullinane to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: “The last Medium Term Financial Outlook (MTFO) report, covering the period from 2022/23 to 24/25, projected a gross funding gap of £39million. Can the Cabinet Member advise what initial assessment has been made on the impact that the Scottish Government’s spending review will have on the planning assumptions behind the MTFO?”
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The written response by the Cabinet Member for Finance was as follows: “The planning assumptions incorporated in the Medium-Term Financial Outlook report approved at Council on 16 February 2022 included a 1% reduction in core revenue grant, a 3% increase in pay award and a 3% increase in council tax for the years 2023/24 and 2024/25. When the General Revenue Budget for 2022/23 was approved at Council on 2 March 2022 this outlined projected funding gaps of £10.729m and £8.785m for 2023/24 and 2024/25 respectively. The Scottish Government Resource Spending Review was published in May 2022 and outlined priorities across a number of areas, including, addressing child poverty (including the cost-of-living crisis), climate change, economic transformation and stronger public services. Significant additional investment has been included in the areas of Health and Social Care and Education and skills portfolios over the term of the Scottish Parliament. From a local Government perspective the level of overall financial resources are set to be maintained at 2022/23 levels until 2025/26 and then a further £100m included for 2026/27. The Spending Review also confirmed that the additional £120m allocated late in the 2022/23 Budget will be baselined in the budget moving forward and not be one-off as previously stated. Ultimately the level of financial settlement for North Ayrshire will only be known following the parliamentary budget process later in the year. The spending Review has indicated what is in effect an overall flat cash level of finance for local government over the next 3 years whilst also committing to maintain investment from other portfolios. Therefore, the level of settlement will likely present challenges for North Ayrshire Council when set within the context of cost pressures and pay awards due to staff. However, the planning assumptions set out within the Medium-Term Financial Outlook report already assume a prudent funding landscape. The Budget process for 2023/24 is currently being progressed and further updates will be provided to members later in the year.” (24) a question by Councillor D. Reid to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “Last June, Cabinet approved £830,000 for Town Centre Living Pilots at Bank Street, Irvine and Howgate, Kilwinning to repurpose vacant buildings into housing. At the end of the financial year, £150,000 had been committed to the project, with the remaining £680,000 reallocated to other projects, including fully funding the West Kilbride shopfront improvement scheme, but with a commitment to reallocate the full £680,000 in 2022/23 for the Town Centre Living Pilots. Can the Cabinet Member outline a timeline for committing the £680,000 during 2022/23 to support this important pilot project?”
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The written response, provided by the Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change, was as follows: “The Regeneration Delivery Plan Funding Proposals report approved by Cabinet on 7 June 2022 confirmed the reallocation of £680,000 from the 2022/23 Place Based Investment Programme to the projects at Bank St and Howgate. The report is available on the Council’s web site. The draft Programme for 36 Bank Street will see Planning and Building Warrant applications commencing this year, alongside the tendering process. It is anticipated, subject to the ongoing pressures and demands within the construction industry, that the project will be tendered in the early parts of 2023 with construction taking place from mid-2023 and likely to be on site for around 12-18months, with site completion anticipated in summer 2024. An application has also been submitted to the Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme for £0.4m towards the Bank Street project, which would enable the project to be delivered to an enhanced energy standard. The Feasibility Study for Howgate will conclude in August 2022, which will: - Identify residential led redevelopment options for the site. - Establish whether a project is viable. - Assist in the development of other project documentation such as the business case, funding application, project execution plan and strategic brief. - Enable us to map development potential, and consider any barriers to development The recommendations of the feasibility study will inform the Council’s next steps and approach to the Howgate site.” (25) a question by Councillor McPhater to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “Following the transfer of the Council’s commercial estate function to the Economic Development team, a review of the commercial estate, with the intention of repurposing vacant properties, was being carried out. Can the Cabinet Member provide an update on the review and confirm whether the Administration remains committed to pro-actively repurposing empty properties within our commercial estate to bring them back into productive use, including the plans for a social enterprise hub at Bridgegate, Irvine?”
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The written response provided by the Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change was as follows: “The transfer of the commercial estate referred to is designed to allow for an enhanced synergy with our business’ needs and our Regeneration priorities. The review of the commercial portfolio has identified a number of potential opportunities for developing our commercial estate function and the transfer of functions is progressing well. We are actively looking at options for a number of Council owned units, including the ones at Bridgegate, to see them being brought back in to use. Opportunities including re-purposing and the potential for social enterprise hubs is very much part of our considerations. Engagement with a number of interested parties is ongoing.” (26) a question by Councillor Montgomerie to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “To ask the Cabinet Member for an update on the Place Framework being developed in Saltcoats, Largs, Kilwinning and the Garnock Valley, including the total investment in the projects?” The written response provided by the Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change was as follows: “Work is continuing to develop the Place Frameworks. Baseline data has been collated and desktop research and initial mapping is complete. Thematic Workshops were carried out during April with internal stakeholders invited to contribute to discussion on each theme, these included: Open Spaces, Getting Around, Communities Health and Wellbeing, Key Sites Buildings and Assets and the Local Economy. Engagement took place with local schools during early May when filming in each of the towns was carried out to set the scene for discussions during planned wider consultation events. Public consultations events have taken place in Saltcoats (23 May) and Kilwinning (24 May) with some of the school children attending further engagement sessions at these events. The Largs events originally planned for late May and some of the evening events for Kilwinning had to be rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances. It is anticipated these will be rescheduled in coming weeks, with dates currently being finalised.
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A number of local projects linked to Place Frameworks have been allocated grant funding from the Communities Project Fund. These include a grant of £20,000 for the Splash group to develop a feasibility study for the outdoor saltwater pool in Saltcoats, a grant of £6,314 For the Kilwinning Community Sports Club to develop Almswall Community Kitchen – Kilwinning Can Cook and also a grant of £7,577 for Saltcoats Link Up Group via TACT (The Ayrshire Communities Trust) for installation of artworks/ murals in the town. A further round of grant funding is proposed which will be informed by the output of the community engagement sessions.” (27) a question by Councillor McDonald to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “Can the Cabinet Member provide an update on the planned Bourtreehill Village regeneration project?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Place was as follows: “Architects have been appointed to prepare development proposals following consultation feedback to date with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders on the housing, retail, community and open space provision. It is anticipated that a draft plans consultation event with all relevant stakeholders will take place in late summer/early autumn 2022, with construction works commencing in summer 2023.” (28) a question by Councillor Cullinane to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: “What is the Administration’s position on Greenports?” The written response, provided by the Leader of the Council following the meeting, was as follows: “The Administration fully supports the decision of the Ayrshire Economic Partnership not to pursue a bid for a Greenport in Ayrshire.” (29) a question by Councillor Foster to the Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change in the following terms: “Cabinet agreed in November 2021 to develop a joint bid with South Ayrshire Council to the second round of the UK’s Levelling Up Fund for up to £40million to create new commercial business space and associated active travel infrastructure. Can the Cabinet Member provide an update on that joint bid?”
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The written response by the Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change was as follows: “The LUF funding application is currently in the final stages of preparation, as a joint bid with South Ayrshire Council. The NAC element of the project is comprised of the delivery of: - Two additional Pavilions at Annickbank, Irvine A further unit at Kyle Road, Irvine Industrial Estate - Construction of Flexible space at i3 Enterprise Area - Active travel links between the three sites and existing networks - Improved electric vehicle infrastructure The application will be submitted to UK Government for the deadline of 6 July.” (30) a question by Councillor McDonald to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “Last year the Council commissioned the Remade Network to explore opportunities for reuse and repair projects in North Ayrshire. Unfortunately, their report was not completed in time to come to Cabinet before the end of the last term. Can the Cabinet Member provide an update on the project?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Place was as follows: “The Remakeries research by the Remade Network has recently been completed and we are now considering the options and recommendations outlined in the report. These will be considered over the summer months.” (31) a question by Councillor Foster to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: “The Ardeer STEP project was subject to a Cabinet report on 31st August 2021, that was not called in by any Elected Member. However, during the election campaign, SNP candidates, including the Council Leader, tweeted in response to the “Refuse Ardeer Fusion” campaign that, “SNP candidates are aware of local support for this but are sceptical of it coming to North Ayrshire. Can the Leader of the Council now clarify what the Administration’s position is on the STEP bid”. The written response, provided by the Leader of the Council following the meeting, was as follows: “We are aware that NAC, as part of a consortium, has been providing information and support to help inform the decision-making process when considering the location of a STEP (Spherical Tokomak Energy Production) plant.
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We are content for this support to continue as we explore the wider benefits of innovative technology that might arise from this. However, even if this project is successful, it will be decades before energy is produced. The climate emergency demands more immediate action and so we do not support diverting resources and investment from existing renewable energy sources that are making an impact now.” (32) a question by Councillor McPhater to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: “Can the Cabinet Member provide an update on plans to develop Council houses at the Ayrshire Central site, including the number of units currently planned and the estimated start date?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Place was as follows: “The latest SHIP includes 171 units at the Ayrshire Central site. Work has been progressing over the last six months to develop site layouts following discussions with Historic Environment Scotland on the former maternity unit, detailed analysis of the housing register and consideration of wider community impacts. The latest site plan shows an increased capacity of 202 units. Draft plans consultation is scheduled to take place in August 2022. The estimated site start date is currently spring/summer 2023, with works scheduled for completion in spring/summer 2025.” (33) a question by Councillor Foster to the Cabinet Member for Place in the following terms: "Can the Cabinet Member confirm when the next strategic housing investment plan will come to cabinet for approval?” The written response by the Cabinet Member for Place was as follows: “The Council’s Strategic Housing Plan 2022-27 was approved by Cabinet on 2 November 2021. The SHIP 2023-28 is scheduled to be presented to Cabinet on 1 November 2022, prior to submission to Scottish Government for their approval.” 14. Motions In terms of Standing Order 15, submitted: (1) a motion proposed by Councillor McDonald and seconded by Councillor Kerr in the following terms: “That North Ayrshire Councils notes the Unite Union’s “Get Me Home safely” campaign to protect late workers on their journey home. North Ayrshire Council, therefore, requests that the Licensing Board consults on inclusion of a “Safe Home” recommendation for Late Opening Premises within their Licensing Policy Statement when it is next reviewed."
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There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. (2) a motion proposed by Councillor Bell and seconded by Councillor Cullinane in the following terms: “On 8 June 2022, Stagecoach announced that the X34 and X36 services from Ardrossan to Glasgow will no longer operate from 17 July 2022. These services play a major role in accessing work and studies for Garnock Valley residents, all the local Councillors have been inundated with complaints from service users regarding the withdrawal of service. Constituents have started petitions and a public meeting is being planned. I move that North Ayrshire Council registers its support to the community in their efforts to get Stagecoach to reconsider this decision, and that we instruct the Council’s Chief Executive to write to Stagecoach, SPT and the Scottish Government’s Transport Minister to urge them to reach a solution which will ensure a reliable, affordable public transport service for North Ayrshire and the Garnock Valley in particular.” There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. (3) a motion proposed by Councillor T. Ferguson and seconded by Councillor Inglis in the following terms: That this Council: 1. renews its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, which is based on the premise that those who serve or have served, and their families deserve respect, support and fair treatment. In particular, it states that: “Those who serve in the Armed Forces, whether regular or Reserve, those who have served in the past, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services. Special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given most such as the injured and the bereaved.” 2. is proud to be Armed Forces friendly and recognises the enormous contribution and sacrifices that members of the Armed Forces and their families make every day for the safety and security of our country; 3. values the service of all British Armed Forces personnel, past and present, including those from Commonwealth Nations. 4. requests production of a report examining what more North Ayrshire Council can do to support our serving and veteran community across the full range of services we provide and strengthen partnerships with the Armed Forces Community.
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5. prepares for the new duty to give due regard to the Armed Forces Covenant in policy development and decision making.” There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. 15. Urgent Items There were no urgent items. 16. Provost’s Closing Remarks The Provost closed the meeting by thanking Members for their participation in the meeting and absorbing the new Standing Orders provisions. The Provost wished Members a good break over the summer recess and hoped that they would return refreshed. The meeting ended at 3.50 p.m.