Minutes of meeting
Renfrewshire Council · 27 February 2025
Back to Council — 27 February 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Minute of Meeting Council Date Time Venue Thursday, 27 February 2025 09:30 Council Chambers (Renfrewshire), Council Headquarters, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1AN Present: Councillor Jennifer Adam, Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson, Councillor Alison Ann- Dowling, Councillor Stephen Burns, Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, Provost Lorraine Cameron, Councillor Michelle Campbell, Councillor Graeme Clark, Councillor Carolann Davidson, Councillor Eddie Devine, Councillor Andy Doig, Councillor Audrey Doig, Councillor Chris Gilmour, Councillor Gillian Graham, Councillor Neill Graham, Councillor John Gray, Councillor Anne Hannigan, Councillor John Hood, Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, Councillor Robert Innes, Councillor Alec Leishman, Councillor Bruce MacFarlane, Councillor James MacLaren, Councillor Kenny MacLaren, Councillor Mags MacLaren, Councillor Colin McCulloch, Councillor Janis McDonald, Councillor Cathy McEwan, Councillor David McGonigle, Councillor Jamie McGuire, Councillor Marie McGurk, Councillor Iain McMillan, Councillor John McNaughtan, Councillor Kevin Montgomery, Councillor Sam Mullin, Councillor Will Mylet, Councillor Iain Nicolson, Councillor Jim Paterson, Councillor Emma Rodden, Councillor John Shaw, Councillor Ben Smith, Councillor Andy Steel Chair Provost Cameron, Convener, presided. In Attendance A Russell, Chief Executive; J O’Neill, Director of Children’s Services; G McNeil, Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure; A MacArthur, Director of Finance & Resources; L McIntyre, Head of Policy & Partnerships, L Adamson, Communications & Public Affairs Manager and D Love, Chief Planning Officer (all Chief Executive’s); J Trainer, Head of Child Care & Criminal Justice (Children’s Services); C Dalrymple, Head of Facilities & Property Services and L Feely, Head of Housing (both Environment, Housing & Infrastructure); C McCourt, Head of Finance & Procurement, M Conaghan, Head of Corporate Governance, R Cree, Head of People & Organisational Development, L Mitchell, Managing Solicitor (Contracts & Conveyancing), D Low, Democratic Services Manager and E Currie, Senior Committee Services Officer (all Finance & Resources); F Naylor, Finance, Governance & Business Improvement Director (OneRen); and C Laverty, Chief Officer (Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership).
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Webcasting of Council Meeting Prior to the commencement of the meeting the Provost intimated that this meeting of the Council would be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council's internet site. Apology Councillor Grady. Transparency Statements Councillor McMillan declared a connection to item 3 by reason of his daughter being an employee of the Head Injury Service. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Councillor McMillan declared a connection to item 4 by reason of his son being an employee of BAE. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Councillor Airlie-Nicolson declared a connection to item 3 by reason of being an employee of Quarriers. However, she indicated that she had applied the objective test and did not consider she had an interest to declare. Declarations of Interest Councillors Paterson declared an interest in item 8 by reason of being Convener of the Planning & Climate Change Policy Board. Councillor Paterson indicated that as he had declared an interest, he would leave the meeting during any discussion or voting thereon. Councillors Gilmour, Smith, Ann-Dowling, and K MacLaren declared interests in item 8 by reason of being members of the Planning & Climate Change Policy Board. The Councillors indicated that as they had declared interests, they would leave the meeting during any discussion or voting thereon. At this point in the meeting, Provost Cameron ruled that item 8, Notice of Motion 1 by Councillors Mylet and Devine, was not competent, in terms of Standing Order 19(c). The Head of Corporate Governance advised that in view of this ruling, members would not require to declare interests in this item of business or leave the meeting.
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Order of Business In terms of Standing Order 16, the Provost intimated that she proposed to alter the order of business to facilitate the conduct of the meeting by considering item 10 of the agenda prior to item 9 of the agenda. 1 Minutes of Meetings of Council, Boards and Panels There were submitted the Minutes of the following meetings of the Council, Boards and Panels on the dates specified: Council, 12 December 2024 Special Council, 12 December 2024 Communities & Housing Policy Board, 14 January 2025 Regulatory Functions Board, 15 January 2025 Education & Children’s Services Policy Board, 16 January 2025 Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board, 20 January 2025 Economy & Regeneration Policy Board, 21 January 2025 Planning & Climate Change Policy Board, 21 January 2025 Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board, 22 January 2025 Petitions Board, 27 January 2025 Regulatory Functions Board, 6 February 2025 Cross Party Sounding Board, 12 February 2025 Finance, Resources & Customer Services Policy Board, 13 February 2025 Leadership Board,19 February 2025. DECIDED: That the Minutes be approved. 2 Provost's Update The Provost advised that an update on the duties she had undertaken since the last meeting of the Council held on 12 December 2024 had been distributed to members. DECIDED: That the update be noted. 3 Revenue Budget and Council Tax 2025/26 There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Revenue Budget and Council Tax 2025/26. The report provided an overview of the Council’s anticipated financial position on the General Fund revenue budget and set out the information required for the Council to set its budget and Council Tax for 2025/26. It was recognised that moving into 2025/26 and beyond, the financial environment that local government in Scotland faced remained difficult, with substantial risks in the short-term in relation to both cost growth and income restraints. Longer lasting legacy impacts on service costs, service demand and income streams were anticipated.
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The report requested that these circumstances be taken into account when setting the 2025/26 budget, and also to recognise that the Council’s immediate and medium-term challenges remained significant. Councillor Shaw, seconded by Councillor Nicolson, moved: “1. That this Administration’s third budget will continue to deliver on its commitments set out in the Council Plan to create a fairer Renfrewshire built on innovation, wellbeing and opportunity; where improving outcomes for children and families underpins all that we do. 2. Households and families across Renfrewshire continue to be impacted by the enduring effects of increased living costs. We remain concerned that for some, poverty is deepening and inequalities are widening. In continuing our Fairer Renfrewshire programme, tackling inequality and poverty will remain key priorities for this Administration. Building on the success of this programme, this Administration commits £0.450 million from the Financial Sustainability Fund to support the following targeted interventions: • a targeted programme of summer activities for children and young people from low-income families, working across Council services with community groups and third sector organisations across Renfrewshire to ensure that our most vulnerable families are able to access a range of activities and healthy food over the summer period. • continuation of the £50 winter school clothing payment to each child eligible for school clothing grant, building on the support provided in 2022, 2023 and 2024. • Continuation of the successful winter connections programme Council also agrees that from within existing Fairer Renfrewshire resource, Council will continue £0.095 million of funding to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support the Welfare Rights Advocacy service and Schools advice support as committed in previous budgets. £0.100 million has been baselined to permanently support delivery of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library programme in Renfrewshire, which sees every child aged between 2 and 5 receive a book every month, and supports our work in Renfrewshire to improve levels of literacy and reduce the poverty related attainment gap. 3. In support of the Fairer Renfrewshire aims above, Council agrees to allocate top-up funding of £0.450 million to supplement allocated resources for discretionary housing payments. 4. Recognising the invaluable contribution our foster and kinship carers make to improve the lives of children in Renfrewshire, Council agrees to commit £0.200 million on a recurring basis to allow an increase in foster and kinship carer fees by 3%. 5. Council recognises the significant investment required in our Learning Estate in order to secure the best possible learning environment for Renfrewshire’s pupils. Council supports the principles of the Learning Estate Strategy agreed by the Education and Children’s Services Policy Board and is committed to the development of a long term funding strategy which will deliver on our aims. This Administration
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today sets out a clear statement of intent in committing £2.500 million of revenue resource as an initial contribution to support the significant borrowing required which will enable a stepped-change in the level of investment in the school estate in the coming years; and further commits that over the remaining years of this Administration, a similar level of increase in supported borrowing will be prioritised within available resources. This commitment will generate capital investment capacity approaching £170 million, funding in large part the next phase of our learning estate strategy. This commitment will enable the Council to progress to the business case development stage those schools which emerge as a priority under the agreed prioritisation matrix. 6. Supporting the above investment, Council further commits £0.700 million to invest in existing school pitches, improving the opportunities for external recreation and exercise for pupils and communities alike; with a further report to the Education and Children’s Services Policy Board with specific proposals for this investment. Complimenting this investment, and ensuring previous investments in playparks are maintained, Council commits on a recurring basis £0.040 million to increase the available budget for playpark maintenance. Council also reaffirms its intention to develop an inclusive soft play area at the Lagoon Leisure Centre funded previously with a £1.000 million allocation and notes that the project will move to delivery over the course of 2025/26. 7. The current and previous Administration has delivered major investment in our roads and associated infrastructure, with a 5 year £40 million funding package being agreed in 2019/20 which has significantly improved the overall condition of our roads. Council recognises the benefits of longer term strategic investment in our infrastructure assets, as evidenced by our strategic investment in the schools estate above. Council therefore commits a further £2.500 million to support borrowing which, in conjunction with a commitment to ringfence general capital grant funding of £4.000 million per year for the next 10 years, will deliver a £90 million investment in our roads and associated infrastructure, with funding as outlined in the table below. 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29- 2034/25 Total £m £m £m £m £m Capital Grant Commitment 4.0 4.0 4.0 32.0 44.0 New Prudential Borrowing 3.0 3.0 4.0 20.0 30.0 CFCR 2.3 2.0 1.6 2.5 8.4 CWSS Specific Grant 0.8 0.8 0.8 5.6 8.0 Total 10.1 9.8 10.4 60.1 90.4 8. Council recognises the success of the Team Up to Clean Up campaigns of recent years, and the importance of clean neighbourhoods. Council agrees that within the base budget proposed by the Director, a sum of £0.550 million is baselined to permanently fund the successful Environment and Place programme, including Team Up to Clean Up. In addition, Council commits a further £0.030 million to resource a dog fouling awareness campaign and associated infrastructure. 9. Complementing the above investment, Council agrees to invest £0.180 million to set up a Community Environment Team - a dedicated team focused on systematically clearing weeds, detritus, and silt from streets and public spaces. in doing so, the team will enhance the environmental cleanliness, visual appeal, and
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overall aesthetics of Renfrewshire’s communities. To support the work of this team, Council also agrees to fund £0.100 million to purchase a mechanical sweeper. Council further commits £0.200 million to invest in projects which will deliver improvements in our open spaces and parks (with an initial £0.080 million allocation to refurbish Robertson Park pond); and a further £0.030 million to deliver public realm improvements in the Oakshaw conservation area. 10. Council has committed to the aims of the strategic property review, and has long recognised that the size and condition of our current property estate demands significant maintenance obligations. Council also recognises the aims of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act in empowering communities through the ownership or control of land and buildings. In support of both these objectives, Council commits £0.800 million to invest in council properties where this investment could be an enabler for increased community ownership of assets currently owned or controlled by the Council, such as through a community asset transfer request. Further detail on the operation of this scheme will be the subject of a report to the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board. 11. Council has delivered major regeneration initiatives such as the Arnotts site in Paisley, and remains committed to further regeneration proposals in all our town centres. Council commits £0.500 million to unlock town centre regeneration proposals where market conditions are such that the redevelopment of significant buildings or sites are stalled; with the criteria for investment being the subject of a future report to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board. 12, Building on the success of our hugely successful events strategy, Council commits £0.150 million to fund a post and an additional financial resource within the events team which will develop and deliver a calendar of cultural events for the five town centres of Renfrewshire, examining ways to work together to maximise and pool resources, leverage external funding and/or secure visiting events and festivals through a joint programming strategy for Renfrewshire. In addition, Council also commits £0.050 million on a recurring basis to support the infrastructure required to deliver improved festive lighting in Linwood and Erskine, with a further £0.050 million to upgrade the festive lighting infrastructure across each of Renfrewshire’s 5 town centres. 13. Council also recognises the success of previous funding allocations which have delivered localised improvements to our towns and villages; and commits further funding to these as follows: £0.050 million to each of the Villages Improvement Fund, Retail Improvement Fund and the historic buildings in villages grant. 14. Council appreciates the input of community groups to the development of the local development plan; and directs £0.100 million from the Financial Sustainability Fund to instigate a new fund which community groups may apply to in order to address costs they may incur in developing their local place plans. Criteria for the fund will be the subject of a report to a future Planning and Climate Change Policy Board. 15. Council notes that the proposals within this motion will bring the Council back into a recurring financial balance, clearly demonstrating the sound financial management for which this Administration is recognised; but also recognises that the medium term outlook remains challenging and that financial sustainability remains a key priority. Council also recognises the need to maintain a prudent level of unallocated reserves given the very high level of risk over the medium term as outlined in the Director’s report; and as previously agreed by Council, commits to
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maintain the Council’s level of unallocated reserve at a minimum of £10.000 million moving into 2025/26. 16. In line with the conditions set out in the 2025/26 financial settlement, agree to the recommendation outlined in Table 2 of the Director’s report to make available £5.594 million of recurring resources to Renfrewshire HSCP; and in addition provide on a recurring basis a further £0.500 million, being a proportionate share of funding which will be received (noting the quantum is yet to be confirmed) in relation to the costs of employer national insurance changes. 17. To agree the base budget assessment for all services for 2025/26 as recommended by the Director of Finance and Resources and agree a 2025/26 base budget of £571.512 million. 18. To agree to make provision in 2025/26 for pay inflation as detailed in section 5.4 of the Director’s report and make no provision for general non-pay inflation, as recommended by the Director. 19. To agree to a general 5% inflationary increase in charges for services as recommended in the Director’s report, subject to the note at paragraph 24 below. 20. To agree the resource allocations for 2025/26 for all services, as amended by these proposals. 21. To agree the detailed Revenue Estimates for all services be amended to reflect these proposals and the necessary allocation of central support costs, central repairs costs, capital charges, specific grants and loan charges provision with Directors authorised to take any action necessary to implement these decisions. 22. Subject to agreement of the above, to agree that the council tax for 2025/26 be set at £1,572.61 for Band D subjects, representing a 9.5% increase on the 2024/25 level, and for all bandings to be set at: Band 2024/25 2025/26 A 957.45 1,048.41 B 1,117.02 1,223.14 C 1,276.60 1,397.88 D 1,436.17 1,572.61 E 1,886.97 2,066.23 F 2,333.78 2,555.49 G 2,812.50 3,079.69 H 3,518.62 3,852.89 23. Subject to agreement of the points above, agree that the Council’s budget is supported by appropriate decisions and makes appropriate provision to meet the specified commitments in the package of conditions linked to the Council’s grant settlement. 24. To agree to increase other charges for services by 5% (as detailed in paragraph 19 above) or where appropriate by the rate set in national legislation or guidance, or where charges are based on full cost recovery by the appropriate increase to maintain this position, subject to Directors being authorised (a) to round the charge up or down to a figure deemed by them appropriate, and
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(b) not to impose any increase, if having reviewed the implications of the increase, he or she determines it would be inappropriate to do so, having regard to any material factor applicable to the goods or services to which the charge relates. To note the requirement of financial code 13 that Directors review the amounts their departments charge for goods or services and if they think any charge needs to be increased, they will recommend this to the appropriate Board. The Council therefore agrees that when a Director carries out such a review and believes a charge for goods or services should be levied which reflects an increase greater than the increase of 5% or the rate set in national legislation or guidance, he or she will be entitled to recommend the same to the appropriate Board for approval.” Councillor Ann-Dowling, seconded by Councillor Clark, moved as an amendment: “Renfrewshire Labour recommits to addressing the impact, mitigation and prevention of poverty and inequality for the benefit of Renfrewshire’s people with particular concern for the vulnerabilities of disadvantaged children and young people. We have shaped this budget to preserve and improve the vital services people in Renfrewshire depend on every day while at the same time being mindful of the present and future financial restraints faced by this Council. Council agrees the following capital commitments: • £4.700 million to fulfil the commitment to provide free school meals for Primary 6 and 7. Council will commit the required funding to move ahead with the necessary kitchen installations and upgrades to make this happen. • £7.300 million to facilitate early improvements in Renfrewshire’s school estate to improve the learning environment for both teachers and pupils These commitments of capital resources funded by prudential borrowing of £1 million p.a. have been built into our financial plan for 2025/26 on a recurring basis. For clarity, the remainder of the commitments in this amendment are non-recurring. In addition, Council agrees to invest £1.000 million of revenue resource to supplement the £4.000 million of general capital grant to fund a total £5.000 million roads maintenance and improvement programme. Council agrees that £0.500 million be directed to the Renfrewshire HSCP solely for the purpose of supporting Carers by reducing the waiting time for vital and much needed respite care. Council also agrees to invest £0.065 million to support mental health recovery services. Renfrewshire Labour commits to continue to support families across Renfrewshire still impacted by the cost of living crisis. We are deeply concerned that for some poverty is deepening and that child poverty continues to grow. Council notes that an estimated £1.300 million will be carried forward from 2024/25 to support Fairer Renfrewshire’s core programme at £0.700 million and agrees that the remaining £0.600 million will be used to address new and emerging priorities
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In addition to the existing £1.3m Fairer Renfrewshire resource above, Council agrees to direct further funding as follows: • £1.500 million to further support this Council’s goal of alleviating child poverty in Renfrewshire by directly allocating funds to address emerging priorities as recommended by the Fairer Renfrewshire sub-committee • £0.255 million for Winter School Clothing Grants to help children with vital clothing for the colder months • £0.100 million to support Summer of Fun providing children across Renfrewshire with vital summer activities and food provision. • £0.075 million to support Winter Connections providing safe, welcoming and warm places for people throughout the winter months with additional community activities. • £0.025 million to enable ROAR to maintain its present service level as it provides opportunities for older adults to maintain independence and to maximise health and wellbeing. Council also agrees to invest in the following: £0.150 million to further support Renfrewshire Council in providing Discretionary Housing Payment in addition to the £0.600 million agreed by the Finance, Resources and Customer Services Policy Board to be held in reserve to support the Scottish Welfare Fund. £0.116 million to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to enable, in addition to it’s core work, a specialist Welfare Rights Service £0.045 million and a vital Debt & Eviction Service £0.071 million. Renfrewshire Labour is focussed on supporting the wellbeing of the wider community. Council therefore agrees to invest: £0.100 million to further support swimming training for primary school children in Renfrewshire at a time when Scottish Swimming tells us that around 40% of primary school of children in Scotland leave school unable to swim. £0.025 million to assist officers in a further consultation with ASN parents and to work together with them to create new and improved strategies for support. £0.025 million to further support the school music service recognising the importance of this service and celebrating the success of Renfrewshire’s young musicians. £0.100 million to further support improvements to Renfrewshire Parks. Spaces necessary for health, mental health and recreation. £0.070 million to assist the warden service in dealing with anti-social behaviour and dog fouling. £0.005 million additional funding for Sma Shot Day to mitigate against inflationary and cost increases, in line with funding uplifts awarded to other key Renfrewshire
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Gala Days. £0.019 million towards a fund supporting Community Councils to develop local place plans. In further support of our communities, Council agrees to provide £0.030 million for Community Bus Improvement, £0.030 million for a Civic Pride Community Fund and £0.125 million for a Community Memorial Fund. Council further agrees to conduct an economic analysis of the impact of recent changes to car parking charging policy in Paisley Town Centre on local businesses and residents who live in the town. In line with the conditions set out in the 2025/26 financial settlement, agree to the recommendation outlined in Table 2 of the Director’s report to make available £5.594 million of recurring resources to Renfrewshire HSCP; and in addition provide on a recurring basis a further £0.500 million, being a proportionate share of funding which will be received (noting the quantum is yet to be confirmed) in relation to the costs of employer national insurance changes. To agree the base budget assessment for all services for 2025/26 as recommended by the Director of Finance and Resources and agree a 2025/26 base budget of £571.512 million. To agree to make provision in 2025/26 for pay inflation as detailed in section 5.4 of the Director’s report and make no provision for general non-pay inflation, as recommended by the Director. To agree to a general 5% inflationary increase in charges for services as recommended in the Director’s report, subject to the note at paragraph 22 below. To agree the resource allocations for 2025/26 for all services, as amended by these proposals. To agree the detailed Revenue Estimates for all services be amended to reflect these proposals and the necessary allocation of central support costs, central repairs costs, capital charges, specific grants and loan charges provision with Directors authorised to take any action necessary to implement these decisions. Subject to agreement of the above, to agree that the council tax for 2025/26 be set at £1,529.52 for Band D subjects, representing a 6.5% increase on the 2024/25 level, and for all bandings to be set at: Band 2024/25 2025/26 A 957.45 1,019.68 B 1,117.02 1,189.63 C 1,276.60 1,359.57 D 1,436.17 1,529.52 E 1,886.97 2,009.62 F 2,333.78 2,458.47 G 2,812.50 2,995.31 H 3,518.62 3,747.32
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Subject to agreement of the points above, agree that the Council’s budget is supported by appropriate decisions and makes appropriate provision to meet the specified commitments in the package of conditions linked to the Council’s grant settlement. To agree to increase other charges for services by 5% (as detailed in paragraph 17 above) or where appropriate by the rate set in national legislation or guidance, or where charges are based on full cost recovery by the appropriate increase to maintain this position, subject to Directors being authorised: (a) to round the charge up or down to a figure deemed by them appropriate, and (b) not to impose any increase, if having reviewed the implications of the increase, he or she determines it would be inappropriate to do so, having regard to any material factor applicable to the goods or services to which the charge relates. To note the requirement of financial code 13 that Directors review the amounts their departments charge for goods or services and if they think any charge needs to be increased, they will recommend this to the appropriate Board. The Council therefore agrees that when a Director carries out such a review and believes a charge for goods or services should be levied which reflects an increase greater than the increase of 5% or the rate set in national legislation or guidance, he or she will be entitled to recommend the same to the appropriate Board for approval." Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 10.10 am to allow members to consider the motion and amendment. The meeting reconvened at 10.30 am. Councillor Shaw clarified that number 4 of his motion should read “4. Recognising the invaluable contribution our foster and kinship carers make to improve the lives of children in Renfrewshire, Council agrees to commit £0.200 million on a recurring basis to allow an increase in foster and kinship carer fees and allowances by 3%.” On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Gilmour, G Graham, Leishman, McCulloch, McDonald, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin and Smith. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Hannigan, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members abstained: Councillors Devine, N Graham, Gray, Hood, J MacLaren and McGonigle. 13 members having voted for the amendment, 23 members having voted for the motion and 6 members having abstained, the motion was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: 1. That this Administration’s third budget will continue to deliver on its commitments set out in the Council Plan to create a fairer Renfrewshire built on innovation,
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wellbeing and opportunity; where improving outcomes for children and families underpins all that we do. 2. Households and families across Renfrewshire continue to be impacted by the enduring effects of increased living costs. We remain concerned that for some, poverty is deepening and inequalities are widening. In continuing our Fairer Renfrewshire programme, tackling inequality and poverty will remain key priorities for this Administration. Building on the success of this programme, this Administration commits £0.450 million from the Financial Sustainability Fund to support the following targeted interventions: • a targeted programme of summer activities for children and young people from low-income families, working across Council services with community groups and third sector organisations across Renfrewshire to ensure that our most vulnerable families are able to access a range of activities and healthy food over the summer period. • continuation of the £50 winter school clothing payment to each child eligible for school clothing grant, building on the support provided in 2022, 2023 and 2024. • Continuation of the successful winter connections programme. Council also agrees that from within existing Fairer Renfrewshire resource, Council will continue £0.095 million of funding to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support the Welfare Rights Advocacy service and Schools advice support as committed in previous budgets. £0.100 million has been baselined to permanently support delivery of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library programme in Renfrewshire, which sees every child aged between 2 and 5 receive a book every month, and supports our work in Renfrewshire to improve levels of literacy and reduce the poverty related attainment gap. 3. In support of the Fairer Renfrewshire aims above, Council agrees to allocate top-up funding of £0.450 million to supplement allocated resources for discretionary housing payments. 4. Recognising the invaluable contribution our foster and kinship carers make to improve the lives of children in Renfrewshire, Council agrees to commit £0.200 million on a recurring basis to allow an increase in foster and kinship carer fees and allowances by 3%. 5. Council recognises the significant investment required in our Learning Estate in order to secure the best possible learning environment for Renfrewshire’s pupils. Council supports the principles of the Learning Estate Strategy agreed by the Education and Children’s Services Policy Board and is committed to the development of a long-term funding strategy which will deliver on our aims. This Administration today sets out a clear statement of intent in committing £2.500 million of revenue resource as an initial contribution to support the significant borrowing required which will enable a stepped-change in the level of investment in the school estate in the coming years; and further commits that over the remaining years of this Administration, a similar level of increase in supported borrowing will be prioritised within available resources. This commitment will generate capital investment capacity approaching £170 million, funding in large part the next phase of our
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learning estate strategy. This commitment will enable the Council to progress to the business case development stage those schools which emerge as a priority under the agreed prioritisation matrix. 6. Supporting the above investment, Council further commits £0.700 million to invest in existing school pitches, improving the opportunities for external recreation and exercise for pupils and communities alike; with a further report to the Education and Children’s Services Policy Board with specific proposals for this investment. Complimenting this investment, and ensuring previous investments in playparks are maintained, Council commits on a recurring basis £0.040 million to increase the available budget for playpark maintenance. Council also reaffirms its intention to develop an inclusive soft play area at the Lagoon Leisure Centre funded previously with a £1.000 million allocation and notes that the project will move to delivery over the course of 2025/26. 7. The current and previous Administration has delivered major investment in our roads and associated infrastructure, with a 5-year £40 million funding package being agreed in 2019/20 which has significantly improved the overall condition of our roads. Council recognises the benefits of longer-term strategic investment in our infrastructure assets, as evidenced by our strategic investment in the schools estate above. Council therefore commits a further £2.500 million to support borrowing which, in conjunction with a commitment to ringfence general capital grant funding of £4.000 million per year for the next 10 years, will deliver a £90 million investment in our roads and associated infrastructure, with funding as outlined in the table below. 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 - 2034/35 Total £m £m £m £m £m Capital Grant Commitment 4.0 4.0 4.0 32.0 44.0 New Prudential Borrowing 3.0 3.0 4.0 20.0 30.0 CFCR 2.3 2.0 1.6 2.5 8.4 CWSS Specific Grant 0.8 0.8 0.8 5.6 8.0 Total 10.1 9.8 10.4 60.1 90.4 8. Council recognises the success of the Team Up to Clean Up campaigns of recent years, and the importance of clean neighbourhoods. Council agrees that within the base budget proposed by the Director, a sum of £0.550 million is baselined to permanently fund the successful Environment and Place programme, including Team Up to Clean Up. In addition, Council commits a further £0.030 million to resource a dog fouling awareness campaign and associated infrastructure. 9. Complementing the above investment, Council agrees to invest £0.180 million to set up a Community Environment Team - a dedicated team focused on systematically clearing weeds, detritus, and silt from streets and public spaces. in doing so, the team will enhance the environmental cleanliness, visual appeal, and overall aesthetics of Renfrewshire’s communities. To support the work of this team, Council also agrees to fund £0.100 million to purchase a mechanical sweeper. Council further commits £0.200 million to invest in projects which will deliver improvements in our open spaces and parks (with an initial £0.080 million allocation to refurbish Robertson Park pond); and a further £0.030 million to deliver public realm improvements in the Oakshaw conservation area.
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10. Council has committed to the aims of the strategic property review, and has long recognised that the size and condition of our current property estate demands significant maintenance obligations. Council also recognises the aims of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act in empowering communities through the ownership or control of land and buildings. In support of both these objectives, Council commits £0.800 million to invest in council properties where this investment could be an enabler for increased community ownership of assets currently owned or controlled by the Council, such as through a community asset transfer request. Further detail on the operation of this scheme will be the subject of a report to the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board. 11. Council has delivered major regeneration initiatives such as the Arnotts site in Paisley, and remains committed to further regeneration proposals in all our town centres. Council commits £0.500 million to unlock town centre regeneration proposals where market conditions are such that the redevelopment of significant buildings or sites are stalled; with the criteria for investment being the subject of a future report to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board. 12, Building on the success of our hugely successful events strategy, Council commits £0.150 million to fund a post and an additional financial resource within the events team which will develop and deliver a calendar of cultural events for the five town centres of Renfrewshire, examining ways to work together to maximise and pool resources, leverage external funding and/or secure visiting events and festivals through a joint programming strategy for Renfrewshire. In addition, Council also commits £0.050 million on a recurring basis to support the infrastructure required to deliver improved festive lighting in Linwood and Erskine, with a further £0.050 million to upgrade the festive lighting infrastructure across each of Renfrewshire’s 5 town centres. 13. Council also recognises the success of previous funding allocations which have delivered localised improvements to our towns and villages; and commits further funding to these as follows: £0.050 million to each of the Villages Improvement Fund, Retail Improvement Fund and the historic buildings in villages grant. 14. Council appreciates the input of community groups to the development of the local development plan; and directs £0.100 million from the Financial Sustainability Fund to instigate a new fund which community groups may apply to in order to address costs they may incur in developing their local place plans. Criteria for the fund will be the subject of a report to a future Planning and Climate Change Policy Board. 15. Council notes that the proposals within this motion will bring the Council back into a recurring financial balance, clearly demonstrating the sound financial management for which this Administration is recognised; but also recognises that the medium-term outlook remains challenging and that financial sustainability remains a key priority. Council also recognises the need to maintain a prudent level of unallocated reserves given the very high level of risk over the medium term as outlined in the Director’s report; and as previously agreed by Council, commits to maintain the Council’s level of unallocated reserve at a minimum of £10.000 million moving into 2025/26. 16. In line with the conditions set out in the 2025/26 financial settlement, agree to the recommendation outlined in Table 2 of the Director’s report to make available £5.594 million of recurring resources to Renfrewshire HSCP; and in addition provide on a recurring basis a further £0.500 million, being a proportionate share of funding which
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will be received (noting the quantum is yet to be confirmed) in relation to the costs of employer national insurance changes. 17. To agree the base budget assessment for all services for 2025/26 as recommended by the Director of Finance and Resources and agree a 2025/26 base budget of £571.512 million. 18. To agree to make provision in 2025/26 for pay inflation as detailed in section 5.4 of the Director’s report and make no provision for general non-pay inflation, as recommended by the Director. 19. To agree to a general 5% inflationary increase in charges for services as recommended in the Director’s report, subject to the note at paragraph 24 below. 20. To agree the resource allocations for 2025/26 for all services, as amended by these proposals. 21. To agree the detailed Revenue Estimates for all services be amended to reflect these proposals and the necessary allocation of central support costs, central repairs costs, capital charges, specific grants and loan charges provision with Directors authorised to take any action necessary to implement these decisions. 22. Subject to agreement of the above, to agree that the council tax for 2025/26 be set at £1,572.61 for Band D subjects, representing a 9.5% increase on the 2024/25 level, and for all bandings to be set at: Band 2024/25 2025/26 A 957.45 1,048.41 B 1,117.02 1,223.14 C 1,276.60 1,397.88 D 1,436.17 1,572.61 E 1,886.97 2,066.23 F 2,333.78 2,555.49 G 2,812.50 3,079.69 H 3,518.62 3,852.89 23. Subject to agreement of the points above, agree that the Council’s budget is supported by appropriate decisions and makes appropriate provision to meet the specified commitments in the package of conditions linked to the Council’s grant settlement. 24. To agree to increase other charges for services by 5% (as detailed in paragraph 19 above) or where appropriate by the rate set in national legislation or guidance, or where charges are based on full cost recovery by the appropriate increase to maintain this position, subject to Directors being authorised (a) to round the charge up or down to a figure deemed by them appropriate, and (b) not to impose any increase, if having reviewed the implications of the increase, he or she determines it would be inappropriate to do so, having regard to any material factor applicable to the goods or services to which the charge relates. To note the requirement of financial code 13 that Directors review the amounts their departments charge for goods or services and if they think any charge needs to be
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increased, they will recommend this to the appropriate Board. The Council therefore agrees that when a Director carries out such a review and believes a charge for goods or services should be levied which reflects an increase greater than the increase of 5% or the rate set in national legislation or guidance, he or she will be entitled to recommend the same to the appropriate Board for approval. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 11.40 am and reconvened at 11.50 am. 4 Non-Housing Capital Investment Programme, Prudential Framework and Treasury Management Strategy, and Capital Strategy 2025/26 – 2029/30 There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the planned Non-housing Capital Investment Programme for projects across all service areas of the Council, with the exception of council housing. The report advised that the resources available to support investment included prudential borrowing and capital grant as well as contributions from revenue, partners and external funding bodies. The report intimated that on 4 December 2024 the Scottish Government had published the draft Scottish Government budget for 2025/26 with the provisional local government finance settlement outlined in Finance Circular 10/2024 published on 12 December 2024. It was noted that the recurring general capital grant for Renfrewshire Council in 2025/26 is £12.861 million. It was noted that this represented a 10.5% increase from the 2024/25 level of £11.639 million. It was highlighted that in the context of the current funding environment, the scope for any investment in assets, including lifecycle maintenance, was significantly reduced, unless other sources of funding could be accessed. There were likely to be limited opportunities for generating capital receipts as a source of income to the capital plan, suggesting potentially placing a greater reliance on borrowing as the main source of capital funding outwith the capital grant. It was highlighted that increased borrowing would result in revenue pressures at a time when the revenue fund was also severely constrained. It was also noted that the capital plan outlined in the report and detailed in the Appendices to the report extended beyond 2025/26 but that no capital grant from 2026/27 onward had been confirmed. Approved programmes already in place which were funded by other arrangements had however been included. It was further noted that this approach did not preclude the Council taking further investment decisions as part of the budget process where separate funding arrangements were established. The report stated that that the Prudential and Treasury Management Codes played a key role in capital finance within local authorities and required the Council to set prudential and treasury management indicators for the following three-year period to ensure that the Council’s capital investment plans were affordable, prudent and sustainable. The Treasury Management Code further required that the Council approved, annually in advance, a strategy for its treasury management activities, whilst the Prudential Code also required full Council approval of the Capital Strategy which set out the long-term context within which capital investment decisions were made to improve capital, revenue and balance sheet planning. Details of the proposed prudential indicators and treasury management strategy and proposed capital strategy were attached as Appendices 3 and 4 of the report respectively.
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Councillor Clark, seconded by Councillor Ann-Dowling, moved as an amendment that: “Add the following to the end of the existing text at recommendation 2.1 (a): “with £1.000 million of the climate change capital allocation being prioritised to adapt, modify and upgrade Barshaw Park Pavilion £0.500 million; adapt, modify and upgrade council owned community centres £0.250 million and Kilbarchan Steeple £0.250 million; and the £0.768 million capital grant funding for playparks being directed to install new playparks at Braehead Road (Glenburn), East Fulton (Linwood), to renew Robertson Park Original Castle Play Area (Renfrew), Poplar Avenue and Campbell Street (Johnstone), Stuart Road (Bishopton), and to partly refurbish Ferguslie Gardens Bottom Play Area (Paisley);” Councillors Clark and Ann-Dowling, as mover and seconder of the amendment, intimated that in terms of Standing Order 27 they wished to withdraw their amendment. DECIDED: (a) That the Capital Investment Programme covering the period up to 2029/30, as summarised in Table 2 of the report and detailed in Appendices 1 and 2 attached to the report, be approved; (b) That the level of capital grant available in 2025/26 be noted, and that it be further noted that estimates of general and specific grant had been included within the planned programme beyond this financial year, in the absence of formal confirmation; (c) That authority be delegated to the relevant Heads of Service, in consultation with the Director of Finance & Resources, to adjust, where appropriate, resources across individual components of the lifecycle maintenance, cultural infrastructure, roads and structures, and schools investment programmes respectively; (d) That the Prudential Indicators, set out in Appendix 3 to the report, be approved subject to any required adjustments arising from decisions taken by the Council in relation to the capital and revenue budget reports being submitted to this Council meeting; (e) That the Treasury Management Strategy Statement 2025/26, including the treasury management indicators, set out in Appendix 3 to the report, be approved; and (f) That the Capital Strategy, set out in Appendix 4 to the report, be approved. 5 Housing Revenue Account Budget & Rent Levels 2025/26 and Housing Capital Investment Plan 2025/26 to 2029/30 There was submitted a joint report by the Directors of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure and Finance & Resources relative to the proposed Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget and rent levels 2025/26 and the Housing Capital Investment Plan 2025/26 to 2029/30. Information was also provided which enabled consideration of a multi-year rent strategy for 2025/26 to 2027/28.
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The proposed budget adjustments for 2025/26 were shown across the high level HRA categories in summary form on Appendix 1 and were analysed in more detail in Appendix 2 to the report. The proposed Housing Capital Investment Plan for the five- year period formed Appendix 3 to the report. The report highlighted the impact of the economic pressures on the HRA and set out the range of operational pressures that had emerged and the adjustments to budgets and resources required to deal with these pressures. It was also highlighted that in setting the 2025/26 HRA budget, members required to consider the medium and longer-term financial context for the HRA considering the ongoing risks and challenges facing the HRA as outlined within the report. The report provided detail on the consultation undertaken with tenants on the multi- year rent setting process and noted that the tenants preferred option of rent increase for 2025/26 to 2027/28 included additional investment to double the capacity of the neighbourhood improvement teams which would make environmental improvements to the grounds and areas around homes and the establishment of a £600,000 YouDecide Tenant Fund for tenants to decide how it was best spent over the three- year period. The report also detailed the Housing Capital Investment Plan 2025/26 to 2029/30 which would deliver a total investment of £292 million in the Council’s housing stock. It was anticipated that this level of investment would attract £34 million of government grant for new-builds and that this would result in a net capital programme of £258 million. It was noted that the table in paragraph 5.2 of the report referred to both options as being option 1 and that the Head of Housing would provide members with information in relation to the funding that tenants’ and residents’ associations received from the Council. DECIDED: (a) That the three-year rent strategy, which included an average weekly rent increase of £7.15, which equated to 7.5% for all house rents and lock-ups for 2025/26, be approved; (b) That the findings of the recent Tenant Consultation exercise be noted; (c) That the Housing Revenue Account Budget for financial year 2025/26, as detailed in Appendix 2 of the report, be approved; (d) That the Housing Capital Investment Plan 2025/26 to 2029/30, as detailed in Appendix 3 of the report, be approved; (e) That the increase services charges for 2025/26, as detailed in section 4.11 of the report, be approved; and (f) That the continuing requirement to achieve best value in the commissioning of works by having an optimum workflow over the five years of the investment plan be noted and that the Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure be authorised to liaise with the Director of Finance & Resources to re-profile the capital programme and available resources, as necessary, in line with the appropriate limits established under the Council’s capital prudential framework arrangements.
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6 Scottish Local Authorities Remuneration Committee and Councillors Remuneration There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to councillors’ remuneration. The report intimated that the Scottish Local Authorities Remuneration Committee (SLARC) had been reconvened in April 2023 to undertake an independent review of councillor remuneration, having last reported in 2011. SLARC reported to the Scottish Government in February 2024 and in January 2025, The Local Governance (Scotland) Act 2004 (Remuneration) Amendment Regulations 2025 were published. The report set out the changes to councillors’ remuneration arising from the revised Regulations and requested that the Council considered the matters where the Council had discretion. DECIDED: (a) That the content of the report and revised remuneration levels for the Leader of the Council and elected members be noted; (b) That the revised remuneration for the Civic Head of the Council be agreed; and (c) That the proposed revised structure of payments to Senior Councillors, as set out in the appendix to the report, be approved. 7 Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland – Annual Report 2023/24 There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to publication of the 2023/24 Annual Report by the Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland. The report provided details of investigations of complaints about the conduct of councillors, members of devolved public bodies and MSPs and scrutiny of Scotland’s Ministerial public appointments process. The report noted that where there had been contravention of the relevant Code, the Commissioner reported this, in the case of councillors and members of devolved public bodies, to the Standards Commission for Scotland, and in the case of MSPs and in relation to lobbying complaints, to the Scottish Parliament. The report advised of revised governance arrangements, reinstated transparency reporting and a new rolling biennial business plan covering all office functions. It was noted that the eighth category of complaint detailed in paragraph 5.1 of the report should read ‘Financial misconduct/Misuse of council facilities’. DECIDED: (a) That the 2023/24 Annual Report by the Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland be noted; and
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(b) That the actions taken in Renfrewshire in relation to the Code of Conduct development, as detailed in paragraph 11.2 of the report, be noted. 8 Notice of Motion 1 by Councillors Mylet and Devine As previously intimated, Provost Cameron had ruled the Notice of Motion by Councillors Mylet and Devine not competent, in terms of Standing Order 19(c). 9 Notice of Motion 3 by Councillors McMillan and Ann-Dowling There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McMillan and Ann-Dowling in the following terms: "WASPI Motion Council notes the recent decision by the UK Government not to pay WASPI women compensation, due to the severe strain on the UK economy and national finances following fourteen years of Conservative Government. Council reaffirms its support for the WASPI campaign and believes that this decision should be reconsidered. Women impacted by previous UK Government failure to adequately warn them about changes to the state pension who have been financially disadvantaged should be compensated in line with PHSO report and recommendations." Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor Ann-Dowling, then moved the motion. Councillor N Graham, seconded by Councillor McGonigle, moved as a first amendment that: “Council notes the recent decision by the Labour Government not to pay WASPI woman compensation despite Keir Starmer saying he supported WASPI women when in opposition. Council calls on the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Of The Exchequer Rachel Reeves to fully compensate Woman who have been financially disadvantaged in line with PHSO report and recommendations. Council notes that all 3 Members of Parliament that covers Renfrewshire Alison Taylor MP ,Johanna Baxter MP and Martin McCluskey MP did not vote to compensate WASPI woman. Council further agrees to write to the above mentioned MP’S offices to request a full explanation as to why they did not vote to compensate the women affected. “ Councillor J Cameron, seconded by Councillor McGurk, moved as a second amendment that: “Replace first line with “Council strongly disagrees with the recent decision by the UK
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Labour Government not to pay WASPI women compensation.” Delete “due to the severe strain on the UK economy and national finances following fourteen years of Conservative Government.” Leave paragraph 2 as per the motion.” Councillors N Graham and McGonigle, as mover and seconder of the first amendment, intimated that in terms of Standing Order 27, they wished to withdraw their amendment. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, N Graham, Gray, Hannigan, Hood, Hughes, Innes, Leishman, MacFarlane, J MacLaren, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGonigle, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Gilmour, G Graham, McCulloch, McDonald, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin and Smith. 30 members having voted for the amendment and 12 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: WASPI Motion Council strongly disagrees with the recent decision by the UK Labour Government not to pay WASPI women compensation. Council reaffirms its support for the WASPI campaign and believes that this decision should be reconsidered. Women impacted by previous UK Government failure to adequately warn them about changes to the state pension who have been financially disadvantaged should be compensated in line with PHSO report and recommendations. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 13.45 pm and reconvened at 2.00 pm. Sederunt Councillor Davidson was not in attendance when the meeting reconvened. 10 Notice of Motion 2 by Councillors Andy Doig and Hood There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and Hood in the following terms: "Withdrawal of Part of the McGills 307 Johnstone to Lochwinnoch Service “Renfrewshire Council deeply regrets the decision by McGills Buses to withdraw the
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307/307a Johnstone to Lochwinnoch service from the Braehead scheme in Lochwinnoch in the evenings and at weekends. Council calls for McGills management to meet with both the appropriate council officers and all local ward Councillors at the earliest opportunity. The purpose of this meeting being to examine how to resolve the issues surrounding the withdrawal of part of the service with a view to restoring it”." Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Hood, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Withdrawal of Part of the McGills 307 Johnstone to Lochwinnoch Service Renfrewshire Council deeply regrets the decision by McGills Buses to withdraw the 307/307a Johnstone to Lochwinnoch service from the Braehead scheme in Lochwinnoch in the evenings and at weekends. Council calls for McGills management to meet with both the appropriate council officers and all local ward Councillors at the earliest opportunity. The purpose of this meeting being to examine how to resolve the issues surrounding the withdrawal of part of the service with a view to restoring it. 11 Notice of Motion 4 by Councillors McNaughtan and K MacLaren There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McNaughtan and K MacLaren in the following terms: "Renfrewshire’s Listed Buildings In the light of recent losses of important listed buildings within Renfrewshire, Council agrees: 1. To advise the Scottish Parliament Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee, which is considering such matters, that additional powers such as Compulsory Sales Orders and clearer guidance are required for local authorities to adequately safeguard our heritage for future generations; 2. While noting that the Buildings at Risk Register has been suspended by Historic Environment Scotland, to instruct officers to report to the appropriate Board, an urgent update on those buildings within Renfrewshire: 3. To develop policy and procedures for the re-use of important remnants and artefacts from any demolitions or partial demolitions of listed buildings, including a record of the storage of such items pending incorporation in new buildings – to ensure such local treasures are not lost through the passage of time; and 4. To consider options open to the Council in respect of tax policy and other incentives to encourage the re-use of listed buildings and avoid empty and deteriorating structures which could have a detrimental impact on communities." Councillor McNaughtan, seconded by Councillor K MacLaren, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.
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DECIDED: Renfrewshire’s Listed Buildings In the light of recent losses of important listed buildings within Renfrewshire, Council agrees: 1. To advise the Scottish Parliament Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee, which is considering such matters, that additional powers such as Compulsory Sales Orders and clearer guidance are required for local authorities to adequately safeguard our heritage for future generations; 2. While noting that the Buildings at Risk Register has been suspended by Historic Environment Scotland, to instruct officers to report to the appropriate Board, an urgent update on those buildings within Renfrewshire: 3. To develop policy and procedures for the re-use of important remnants and artefacts from any demolitions or partial demolitions of listed buildings, including a record of the storage of such items pending incorporation in new buildings – to ensure such local treasures are not lost through the passage of time; and 4. To consider options open to the Council in respect of tax policy and other incentives to encourage the re-use of listed buildings and avoid empty and deteriorating structures which could have a detrimental impact on communities. 12 Notice of Motion 5 by Councillors J MacLaren and N Graham There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors J MacLaren and N Graham in the following terms: "Listed Buildings Following the loss of the much-loved TA building and façade, Council laments the loss of another listed building in Paisley. Council calls on the Scottish Government to carry out an urgent review of listed-building regulations and directives." Councillor J MacLaren, seconded by Councillor N Graham, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Listed Buildings Following the loss of the much-loved TA building and façade, Council laments the loss of another listed building in Paisley. Council calls on the Scottish Government to carry out an urgent review of listed-building regulations and directives.