Minutes of meeting
Renfrewshire Council · 28 September 2023
Back to Council — 28 September 2023 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
Page 1
Minute of Meeting Council Date Time Venue Thursday, 28 September 2023 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; G McNeil, Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure; A MacArthur, Director of Finance & Resources; A Morrison, Head of Economy & Development Services, L McIntyre, Head of Policy & Partnerships, L Mahon, Head of Marketing & Communications and L Adamson, Communications & Public Affairs Manager (all Chief Executive’s); J Trainer, Head of Child Care & Criminal Justice/Chief Social Work Officer and J Calder, Head of Education/Interim Chief Education Officer (both Children’s Services); C Dalrymple, Head of Facilities and Property Services (Environment, Housing & Infrastructure); M Boyd, Head of People & Organisational Development, M Conaghan, Head of Corporate Governance, C McCourt, Head of Finance & Procurement, P Murray, Head of Digital, Transformation & Customer Services, L Mitchell, Managing Solicitor (Contracts & Conveyancing), L Belshaw and D Low, both Democratic Services Managers and C MacDonald and E Gray both Senior Committee Services Officers (all Finance & Resources); V Hollows, Chief Executive and M Tokeley, Operations and Estates Director (both OneRen); and C Laverty, Chief Officer (Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership).
Page 2
Apology Councillor Grady. Webcasting of Council Meeting Prior to the commencement of the meeting, Provost Cameron intimated that this meeting would be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site. Valedictory The Provost advised that this was the last meeting of the Council Lilian Belshaw, Democratic Services Manager would attend before her retirement and took the opportunity to thank her for her professionalism and, specifically the impartial help, support and advice she had provided during her employment with Renfrewshire Council. Other elected members echoed the sentiments expressed by the Provost. Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of interest intimated prior to the commencement of the meeting. Transparency Statements Councillor Mullin indicated that he had a connection to items 6 and 7 – Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/2023 and Renfrewshire Community Protection Chief Officers Group – Annual Report 2022/23 respectively - by reason of him being a NHS employee outwith the Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership area. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare and intimated that it was his intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. Councillor N Graham declared that he had a connection to items 6 and 7 – Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/2023 and Renfrewshire Community Protection Chief Officers Group – Annual Report 2022/23 respectively – by reason that he was a volunteer with Barnardo’s but not within the Renfrewshire area. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare and intimated that it was his intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. Councillor Davidson declared that she had a connection to item 6 – Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/2023 – by reason that her daughter was employed at Barochan Road care home. However, she indicated that she had applied the objective test and did not consider she had an interest to declare and intimated that it was her intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon.
Page 3
Councillor Campbell declared that she had a connection to items 6 and 7 – Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/2023 and Renfrewshire Community Protection Chief Officers Group – Annual Report 2022/23 respectively – by reason that she was an employee with NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde but not within the Council area. However, she indicated that she had applied the objective test and did not consider she had an interest to declare and intimated that it was her intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. Councillor Airlie-Nicolson declared that she had a connection to item 6 – Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/2023 – by reason that she worked for Quarriers who provided services in care. However, she indicated that she had applied the objective test and did not consider she had an interest to declare and intimated that it was her intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. Councillor McCulloch declared that he had a connection to item 6 – Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/2023 – by reason that his wife worked for Quarriers, but not in the Council’s area. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare and intimated that it was his intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. Councillor McMillan declared that he had a connection to item 6 – Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/2023 – by reason that his daughter worked for Quarriers, but not in the Council’s area. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare and intimated that it was his intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. Councillor Nicolson declared that he had a connection to item 6 – Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/2023 – by reason that his wife worked for Quarriers, but not in the Council’s area. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare and intimated that it was his intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. Councillor Neill Graham declared that he had a connection to item 9 Notice of Motion 1 – by reason that he worked in Russell Findlay MSP’s office. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare and intimated that it was his intention to remain in the meeting and to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. 1 Minutes of Meetings of Council, Boards and Panels Council, 22 June 2023 Placing Requests and Exclusions Appeals Panel, 24 July 2023 Special Regulatory Functions Board, 27 July 2023 Placing Requests and Exclusions Appeals Panel, 9 August 2023 Audit Risk and Scrutiny Board, 21 August 2023 Communities and Housing Policy Board, 22 August 2023 Regulatory Functions Board, 23 August 2023 Education and Children’s Services Policy Board, 24 August 2023 Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 29 August 2023 Planning and Climate Change Policy Board, 29 August 2023 Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, 30 August 2023 Special Regulatory Functions Board, 1 September 2023
Page 4
Regulatory Functions Board, 7 September 2023 Appointments Panel - Director of Children's Services, 11 September 2023 Finance, Resources and Customer Services Policy Board, 14 September 2023 Leadership Board, 20 September 2023 Audit, Risk and Scrutiny Board, 26 September 2023 Appointments Panel - Director of Children's Services, 27 September 2023 DECIDED: That the Minutes be approved. 2 Provost's Update The Provost intimated that an update in relation to the duties she had undertaken since the last meeting of the Council on 22 June 2023 would be circulated to members following the Council meeting. DECIDED: That the update would be circulated following the Council meeting. 3 Update on the Annual Audit Report 2022/23 There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Annual Audit report 2022/23. The report advised that the Council’s unaudited Annual Accounts for 2022/23 had been presented to the meeting of the Council held on 22 June 2023 and submitted for audit by the statutory deadline of 30 June 2023. The audit was now substantially complete but was still subject to final review and therefore the annual audit report was not available for consideration at this meeting of the Council as originally planned. Further detail was provided in Section 3 of the report. DECIDED: (a) That the report be noted; (b) That it be noted that a special meeting of the Audit, Risk and Scrutiny Board may be held to consider the Annual Audit Report and Audited Annual Accounts 2022/23; and (c) That it be noted that a special meeting of the Council would be held to consider the Annual Audit Report and Audited Annual Accounts 2022/23. 4 Financial Update There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to a financial update. The report advised that the Council’s financial outlook was subject to ongoing risk over the short and medium term as the Council continued to develop financial proposals which underpinned the Council’s financial sustainability. The Scottish Government Programme for Government (PfG) had been published on 5 September 2023, which provided useful context for the potential outlook for the local
Page 5
government settlement and an indication of Scottish Government legislative priorities. The PfG outlined a range of proposed areas which would likely impact on the range and scope of services delivered by local government, and consequently the financial position of the Council. The report intimated that COSLA and the Scottish Government continued to discuss the development of a fiscal framework as outlined in the Verity House agreement. While the potential additional flexibility councils might have in terms of their revenue grant allocation was welcomed, the framework in itself was unlikely to substantially improve the current financial position of local government. The medium-term outlook for the Council’s finance remained challenging, and had not improved since previous reports to Council. While the immediate financial position of the Council remained secure, with the 2023/24 projected outturn broadly in line with the planned position, there were risks in the short-term which were outlined in the report, predominantly related to the 2023/24 pay settlement which remained unresolved. The report also proposed an amendment to the Council’s capital plan to include provision for new schools investment. DECIDED: (a) That the financial updated provided in the report be noted; and (b) That the revisions to the capital plan as outlined in section 5 be agreed. 5 Statutory Review of Polling Places and Polling Districts There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the statutory review of the Council's polling places and polling districts. The report intimated that, in terms of the Representation of the People Act 1983, local authorities were required to divide their area into polling districts for the purposes of parliamentary and other elections and to designate polling places for these polling districts and keep them under review. The Electoral Registration and Administration Act 2013 further amended the Representation of the People Act 1983 by introducing a statutory duty for all polling districts and polling places to be reviewed by the end of January 2015 and at least every 5 years thereafter. The report advised that a notice had been was published giving details of the timetable for and scope of the review, and the consultation process and invited comments on the current arrangements. In addition, notice was given to key groups, including councillors, Council departments, community councils, Renfrewshire Valuation Board, the local Disability Liaison Group and Capability Scotland. A note of the one comment received and the consideration which had been given to it in preparing the draft scheme was attached as Appendix 1 to the report. The Appendix also set out alternative arrangements for two polling places that had become unavailable since the last review in 2019 and proposed that the Tannahill Centre replace St Ninian’s Church Centre and Our Lady of Peace Primary School replace Linwood Parish Church Hall. Appendix 2 identified local housing developments that might impact on polling arrangements. The preliminary polling scheme showing the polling places was also attached as Appendix 3 for consideration and adoption for formal public consultation.
Page 6
DECIDED: That the polling places set out in the appendices to the report be approved as the draft polling scheme for public consultation. 6 Chief Social Work Officer Report 2022/23 There was submitted a report by the Chief Social Work Officer relative to the Annual Report 2022/23. The report advised that the annual reports of all Chief Social Work Officers were submitted to the office of the Chief Social Work Advisor at the Scottish Government in order that a national overview report could be produced. The annual report from the Renfrewshire Chief Social Work Officer provided a summary of the activities relating to the Chief Social Work Officer during 2022/23 and was attached as an appendix to the report. DECIDED: That the key activities outlined in the Chief Social Work Officer Annual Report be noted. 7 Renfrewshire Community Protection Chief Officers Group – Annual Report 2022/23 There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to Renfrewshire Community Protection Chief Officers’ Group Annual Report 2022/23. A copy of the annual report was attached as Appendix 1 to the report. The report provided an overview of the key areas of activity overseen by the Renfrewshire Chief Officers’ Group and highlighted the ongoing key benefits of excellent partnership working. The report noted that the Chief Officers’ Group provided regular reports to the Member Officer Group, which comprised of elected members on a cross-party basis, and key officers from the Council and partners. The annual report was provided against the backdrop of some of the biggest challenges to face public services in many years. Renfrewshire, as with elsewhere in the country, had faced both the emergence of new pressures and the exacerbation of existing ones. The cost-of-living crisis and inflation had added to existing inequalities. Public services also faced major challenges in addressing climate change, rising demand, and dealing with the longer-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. DECIDED: That the report be noted. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 11.00 am to allow young people from Fèis Phàislig's Gaelic choir to perform ahead of the start of the Royal National Mòd. The Provost thanked the children and staff for their performance. The meeting reconvened at 11.30 am.
Page 7
8 Clydeplan/Regional Spatial Strategy – Future Governance There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to the Clydeplan/Regional Spacial Strategy and future governance. The report updated members following the meeting of the Glasgow & the Clyde Valley Strategic Development Planning Authority held on 28 June 2023 and sought Renfrewshire Council’s agreed position on the future governance for the preparation of a Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS). The report outlined potential options and Council was asked to express a view on their preferred model for delivery of this duty. Councillor McNaughtan, seconded by Councillor Paterson, moved to replace Recommendation 2 at paragraph 2.1 of the report with the following: “This Council notes the decision of the GCVSDPA (Clydeplan) Joint Committee to recommend passing responsibility for the new Regional Spatial Strategy to the Glasgow City Region Cabinet, however this Council considers it premature to do so at this juncture as no guidance has been issued to date as to the development of the RSS or the governance agreed between the constituent authorities. The staff of the GCVSDPA (who are Renfrewshire Council employees) are greatly valued for their skills and knowledge in this rapidly changing planning environment and should be fully supported and involved in any proposed changes. The Joint Committee has successfully operated as a directly accountable governance structure to all 8 local authorities regarding regional planning. This council believes that the same principle should apply regarding the development of the new Regional Spatial Strategies (RSS). For it to be equally successful it must be founded in democratically accountable governance structures which encourages neighbouring authorities to collaborate and agree on any strategies that may have an influence on their own local planning policies. Council therefore agrees that the Joint Committee should continue until alternative suitable democratically accountable governance structures are identified, agreed and approved by all constituent authorities for its replacement with responsibility for delivering the new Regional Spatial Strategy". The motion was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: (a) That the Joint Committee recommendation (Jun 2023) to its member authorities (and Renfrewshire’s vote against this recommendation) be noted; (b) That this Council notes the decision of the GCVSDPA (Clydeplan) Joint Committee to recommend passing responsibility for the new Regional Spatial Strategy to the Glasgow City Region Cabinet, however this Council considers it premature to do so at this juncture as no guidance has been issued to date as to the development of the RSS or the governance agreed between the constituent authorities.
Page 8
The staff of the GCVSDPA (who are Renfrewshire Council employees) are greatly valued for their skills and knowledge in this rapidly changing planning environment and should be fully supported and involved in any proposed changes. The Joint Committee has successfully operated as a directly accountable governance structure to all 8 local authorities regarding regional planning. This council believes that the same principle should apply regarding the development of the new Regional Spatial Strategies (RSS). For it to be equally successful it must be founded in democratically accountable governance structures which encourages neighbouring authorities to collaborate and agree on any strategies that may have an influence on their own local planning policies. Council therefore agrees that the Joint Committee should continue until alternative suitable democratically accountable governance structures are identified, agreed and approved by all constituent authorities for its replacement with responsibility for delivering the new Regional Spatial Strategy; and (c) That it be noted that further reports would be submitted to the appropriate Council board or Council once other member authority had made their preference known. 9 Notice of Motion 1 by Councillors Andy Doig and Hood There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and Hood in the following terms: "Road Safety A737 Kilbarchan/Beith - This Council recognises the economic, commercial, and community importance of the A737 to Renfrewshire in how it links with the wider West of Scotland network, and concurs with Transport Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 which seeks to have the best road safety performance in the world. Council notes the long-standing existence of several key accident hot-spots on the A737 between Kilbarchan and Beith, which fall far short of acceptable road safety standards and calls on the Scottish Government, in conjunction with Transport Scotland, Police Scotland, and local MSP’s, to bring forward a remedial plan to rectify these. At the conclusion of this plan Council calls on Scottish ministers to provide both a budget and timescale in which to implement this infrastructure improvement plan”. Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Hood, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: This Council recognises the economic, commercial, and community importance of the A737 to Renfrewshire in how it links with the wider West of Scotland network, and concurs with Transport Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 which seeks to
Page 9
have the best road safety performance in the world. Council notes the long-standing existence of several key accident hot-spots on the A737 between Kilbarchan and Beith, which fall far short of acceptable road safety standards and calls on the Scottish Government, in conjunction with Transport Scotland, Police Scotland, and local MSP’s, to bring forward a remedial plan to rectify these. At the conclusion of this plan Council calls on Scottish ministers to provide both a budget and timescale in which to implement this infrastructure improvement plan. 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: "Mandatory Dog Licensing and Amendments to Control of Dogs Act (Scotland) 2010 This Council recognises the overwhelming positive impact which responsible dog ownership brings to the benefit of the canine and human populations alike, but recognises increasing public concern around the rise of aggressive canine behaviour associated with, but not exclusive to, particular breeds. Council regrets that bad ownership and lack of training are often the primary drivers for such dog behaviours, and therefore calls on the Scottish Government to amend the Control of Dogs Act (Scotland) 2010 to bring in mandatory dog licensing, administered at local authority level, in the interests of dog welfare, to prevent unethical dog-breeding, and to increase owner education and support". Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Hood, then moved the motion. Councillor Montgomery, seconded by Councillor Graham, moved the following amendment as an addition to the motion: Paragraph 2 after dog licensing add “complete with robust enforcement powers”. Additional sentence at end of paragraph 2 "Council also calls on the Scottish Government to provide appropriate funding for the delivery of an effective licensing scheme". Councillor Hughes, seconded by Councillor Adam, moved as a second amendment: Delete all and replace with: "Council notes the positive benefits that dog ownership brings to individuals, families and communities, and understands public concern about dog biting incidents. Council notes the requirement for breeder registration as enshrined in the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021, currently regulated by Local Authorities. Council also notes that the Scottish Government is currently consulting on extending these regulations to include further areas. Council commits to fully engaging with this consultation.
Page 10
Council agrees with Dog Welfare organisations like Dogs Trust, who do not believe licensing dog owners would be beneficial in reducing dog bite incidents, and consider it to be essentially unenforceable, and supports their position that people should be encouraged to seek support with training where needed, noting that many of the Dog Welfare organisations offer support with this. Council also recognises the work of our Environment Team in creating the Take the Lead Campaign, which has included several successful events in our local parks. Council asks the Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure to write to the Minister to request an update on the progress of the consultation, so that council may consider future options for regulation.” In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors Andy Doig and Hood being the mover and seconder of the motion, accepted the first amendment as an addition. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Audrey Doig, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Gilmour, G Graham, N Graham, Gray, Hannigan, Hood, Leishman, J MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McGonigle, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin and Smith. On a vote being taken, 21 members voted for the motion and 21 members voted for the amendment. There being an equality of votes being cast, in accordance with Standing Order 31, the Provost had a casting vote which she cast in favour of the amendment. DECIDED: Council notes the positive benefits that dog ownership brings to individuals, families and communities, and understands public concern about dog biting incidents. Council notes the requirement for breeder registration as enshrined in the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021, currently regulated by Local Authorities. Council also notes that the Scottish Government is currently consulting on extending these regulations to include further areas. Council commits to fully engaging with this consultation. Council agrees with Dog Welfare organisations like Dogs Trust, who do not believe licensing dog owners would be beneficial in reducing dog bite incidents, and consider it to be essentially unenforceable, and supports their position that people should be encouraged to seek support with training where needed, noting that many of the Dog Welfare organisations offer support with this. Council also recognises the work of our Environment Team in creating the Take the Lead Campaign, which has included several successful events in our local parks.
Page 11
Council asks the Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure to write to the Minister to request an update on the progress of the consultation, so that council may consider future options for regulation. 11 Notice of Motion 3 by Councillors G Graham and Gilmour There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors G Graham and Gilmour in the following terms: "Lochwinnoch Arts Festival 20th Anniversary 2023 is the 20th anniversary of Lochwinnoch Arts Festival. The festival is run entirely by volunteers led by local resident Morag Thow. Lochwinnoch Arts Festival promotes the best of Scotland’s abundant cultural talent through round-the-year local concerts and events. Council congratulates the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival on its 20th Anniversary and recognises the dedication of all the volunteers who make these hugely popular festival events possible. Long may they continue." Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Rodden, moved, as an addition to the motion: “Council further commends the organisers of the Lochwinnoch Feel Good Festival, a new annual event which complements the long-standing activities of the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival, and reiterates the view of Renfrewshire Council that Lochwinnoch and Kilbarchan are officially designated Villages of Heritage and Culture”. In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors N Graham and Gilmour being the mover and seconder of the motion, accepted the amendment as an addition which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Lochwinnoch Arts Festival 20th Anniversary 2023 is the 20th anniversary of Lochwinnoch Arts Festival. The festival is run entirely by volunteers led by local resident Morag Thow. Lochwinnoch Arts Festival promotes the best of Scotland’s abundant cultural talent through round-the-year local concerts and events. Council congratulates the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival on its 20th Anniversary and recognises the dedication of all the volunteers who make these hugely popular festival events possible. Long may they continue. Council further commends the organisers of the Lochwinnoch Feel Good Festival, a new annual event which complements the long-standing activities of the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival, and reiterates the view of Renfrewshire Council that Lochwinnoch and Kilbarchan are officially designated Villages of Heritage and Culture. 12 Notice of Motion 4 by Councillors McMillan and McGuire There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McMillan and McGuire in the following terms:
Page 12
"Access to Sun Cream Council understands that children in our nurseries have access to sun cream. Council agrees that this policy should continue to into primary schools. Council therefore instructs the new Director of Children's services to bring back a report to the appropriate board advising on how this policy can proceed." Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor McGuire, then moved the motion. Councillor Campbell, seconded by Councillor Adam, moved an amendment as an addition to the motion: “Council supports the current campaign to make sunscreen VAT free.” In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors McMillan and McGuire being the mover and seconder of the motion, accepted the amendment as an addition. DECIDED: Council understands that children in our nurseries have access to sun cream. Council agrees that this policy should continue to into primary schools. Council therefore instructs the new Director of Children's services to bring back a report to the appropriate board advising on how this policy can proceed. Council supports the current campaign to make sunscreen VAT free. 13 Notice of Motion 5 by Councillors McMillan and G Graham There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McMillan and Graham in the following terms: "Availability of Schools Council instructs the new Director of Children's Services to investigate the idea of making schools in Renfrewshire more available to the community after school hours. The findings to be reported back to the appropriate board." Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor G Graham, then moved the motion. Councillor Campbell, seconded by Councillor Adam, moved as an amendment: “School estate is the responsibility of the Director for Infrastructure, Land and Environment and school Lets within Renfrewshire’s Educational Estate are managed by OneRen. All Primary Schools are open until at least 7pm to facilitate lets and all Secondary Schools are open to 10pm to facilitate community lets. Council recognises the
Page 13
important role our schools have within our communities and instructs the Director to explore the use of our school estate outside the existing hours and report findings back to the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board.” In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors McMillan and G Graham being the mover and seconder of the motion, accepted the amendment, to the motion. DECIDED: School estate is the responsibility of the Director for Infrastructure, Land and Environment and school Lets within Renfrewshire’s Educational Estate are managed by OneRen. All Primary Schools are open until at least 7pm to facilitate lets and all Secondary Schools are open to 10pm to facilitate community lets. Council recognises the important role our schools have within our communities and instructs the Director to explore the use of our school estate outside the existing hours and report findings back to the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board. 14 Notice of Motion 6 by Councillors J MacLaren and Leishman There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors J MacLaren and Leishman in the following terms: "Streetlights across Renfrewshire Council recalls that since before the Covid-19 pandemic, many streetlights across Renfrewshire have been removed. This has led to many parts of our communities being inadequately lit after dusk. Council acknowledges that poor streetlighting during the hours of darkness leads to increased risk of violent crime, burglary, road traffic accidents, tripping hazards etc. Now that night is already longer than day, and Daylight Saving is only a little over four weeks away, this has become a very pressing concern for many of our citizens. Council agrees to explore and identify measures to correct the inadequate streetlighting and to implement those measures as a matter of urgency." Councillor J MacLaren, seconded by Councillor Leishman, then moved the motion. Councillor Campbell, seconded by Councillor Burns, moved as a first amendment: "Council recognises the investment of £9M into modernisation of over 30,700 lanterns in Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire Council was recognised in both the GO Awards Scotland and the National GO Awards for the innovation, sustainability and carbon reduction in street lighting across Renfrewshire. Council agrees that an update report on the operation of the street lighting service be made to the next appropriate meeting of Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board and that elected members are encouraged to engage with the service team and officers on any particular issues that require to be addressed in advance of that report.”
Page 14
Councillor Gilmour, seconded by Councillor McDonald, moved as a second amendment: “Council instructs officers to carry out a Renfrewshire wide street lighting survey to assess areas and levels of risk. This would include an action plan identifying the needs for replacement, renewal or additional lighting The results of this plan to be reported to the appropriate Board”. In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors Campbell and Burns being the mover and seconder of the first amendment, accepted the second amendment as an addition. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Ann-Dowling, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Gilmour, G Graham, Hannigan, Hood, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McEwan, McGuire, McGurk, McMillan, McNaughtan, Montgomery, Mullin, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw, Smith and Steel. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors N Graham, Gray, Leishman, J MacLaren and McGonigle. 37 members having voted for the amendment, 5 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: Council recognises the investment of £9M into modernisation of over 30,700 lanterns in Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire Council was recognised in both the GO Awards Scotland and the National GO Awards for the innovation, sustainability and carbon reduction in street lighting across Renfrewshire. Council agrees that an update report on the operation of the street lighting service be made to the next appropriate meeting of Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board and that elected members are encouraged to engage with the service team and officers on any particular issues that require to be addressed in advance of that report.” Council instructs officers to carry out a Renfrewshire wide street lighting survey to assess areas and levels of risk. This would include an action plan identifying the needs for replacement, renewal or additional lighting The results of this plan to be reported to the appropriate Board. 15 Notice of Motion 7 by Councillors J Cameron and Adam There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors J Cameron and Adam in the following terms: "Council welcomes St Mirren FC Charitable Foundation’s new programme Menopause Goals – Celebrating the Second Half. Women’s football is growing in popularity with attendance figures and viewing figures on the rise. In a once male- dominated sport, Council agrees that programme’s like Menopause Goals mark a shift in culture and welcome this more inclusive approach in football." Councillor J Cameron, seconded by Councillor Adam, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.
Page 15
DECIDED: Council welcomes St Mirren FC Charitable Foundation’s new programme Menopause Goals – Celebrating the Second Half. Women’s football is growing in popularity with attendance figures and viewing figures on the rise. In a once male- dominated sport, Council agrees that programme’s like Menopause Goals mark a shift in culture and welcome this more inclusive approach in football. 16 Notice of Motion 8 by Councillors J Cameron and Hughes There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors J Cameron and Hughes in the following terms: "Council welcomes the decision of the Lord Advocate not to prosecute people using the safe drug consumption room soon to be piloted in Glasgow. Scotland’s drug deaths are reducing, but every death is a tragedy and a loved one lost to their families and friends. Safe consumption rooms are only one strand of a host of measures to support the issue of drugs deaths in Scotland, but an important and vital one. Council urges the UK Government not to block this pilot and in the long term calls for drugs legislation to be devolved to the Scottish Parliament." Councillor J Cameron, seconded by Councillor Hughes, then moved the motion. Councillor Leishman, seconded by Councillor N Graham, moved as a first amendment: Delete: “Council urges the UK Government not to block this pilot and in the long-term calls for drugs legislation to be devolved to the Scottish Parliament.” Replace with: “Council acknowledges that the UK Government has stated on several occasions and on record that it will not intervene in any pilot of Drug Consumption Rooms authorised by the Scottish Government. Council is satisfied with the current level of drugs legislation devolved to the Scottish Government. Council urges the Scottish Government to continue developing strategies to combat Scotland’s devastating drugs crisis. There is no need to urge the UK Government not to block any DCR pilots when it has already pledged exactly that; to do so again is mere petty hectoring from the SNP and their increasingly eccentric partners, the Scottish Green Party. Consistency in drugs legislation across the UK is the most effective way of controlling illicit drug use and of successfully prosecuting dealers. Drugs legislation should absolutely not be used as a tool for creating another constitutional conflict between Holyrood and Westminster; to do so is cynical in the extreme and puts the lives and wellbeing of many Scots at unnecessary risk”. Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor Davidson, moved as a second amendment: “Council notes that the UK’s first official consumption room for illegal drugs has been approved”. Council looks forward to hearing the findings of the pilot which is to be based in Glasgow.
Page 16
Council also acknowledges that this proposal should be part of a wider programme thats aim is to reduce the impact illegal drug taking has on individuals, families and communities. On the roll being called, between the motion and the first amendment, the following members voted for the first amendment: Councillors N Graham, Gray, Leishman, J MacLaren and McGonigle. 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, McFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members abstained: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Gilmour, G Graham, Hood, McCulloch, McDonald, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin and Smith. 23 members having voted for the motion, 5 members having voted for the first amendment and 14 members having abstained, the motion was declared carried. On the role being called between the motion and the second amendment, there voted for the second amendment: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Gilmour, G Graham, N Graham, Gray, Hood, Leishman, J MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McGonigle, 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. 19 members having voted for the second amendment and 23 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: Council welcomes the decision of the Lord Advocate not to prosecute people using the safe drug consumption room soon to be piloted in Glasgow. Scotland’s drug deaths are reducing, but every death is a tragedy and a loved one lost to their families and friends. Safe consumption rooms are only one strand of a host of measures to support the issue of drugs deaths in Scotland, but an important and vital one. Council urges the UK Government not to block this pilot and in the long term calls for drugs legislation to be devolved to the Scottish Parliament. 17 Notice of Motion 9 by Councillors N Graham and Gray There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors N Graham and Gray in the following terms: "Low Emissions Zone This council rules out establishing any Low Emissions Zone (LEZ/ULEZ) in Paisley or any other parts of Renfrewshire for the duration of this council term." Councillor N Graham, seconded by Councillor Gray, then moved the motion.
Page 17
Councillor Paterson, seconded by McNaughton, moved as a first amendment: Delete and replace with the following; “The council administration can confirm that it is not considering the introduction of a Low Emissions Zone (LEZ/ULEZ) in Paisley or any other parts of Renfrewshire, however given the unanimous decision by Renfrewshire Council to declare a climate emergency in June 2019, agrees that arbitrarily ruling out any particular single measure would be counterproductive and undermine this Council’s Net Zero ambitions”. Councillor Smith, seconded by Gilmour, moved as a second amendment: Delete all and replace with: “Council notes that the UK government has classed pollution as the largest environmental risk to public health and that the government estimates that human- made air pollution is responsible for annual mortality figures of 28,000 - 36,000. Given that the UK government has estimated that by 2025 the total cost to the NHS and the social care system of the effects of air pollutants will be £1.6 billion, council agrees that options to protect public health and save lives should be considered when appropriate and that these decisions should be guided by evidence for the best possible health outcomes.” In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors Paterson and McNaughton being the mover and seconder of the first amendment, accepted the second amendment as an addition. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Ann-Dowling, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Clark, Davidson, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Gilmour, G Graham, Hannigan, Hood, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McEwan, McGuire, McGurk, McMillan, McNaughtan, Montgomery, Mullin, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw, Smith and Steel. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Devine, N Graham, Gray, Leishman, J MacLaren and McGonigle. 36 members having voted for the amendment, 6 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: The council administration can confirm that it is not considering the introduction of a Low Emissions Zone (LEZ/ULEZ) in Paisley or any other parts of Renfrewshire, however given the unanimous decision by Renfrewshire Council to declare a climate emergency in June 2019, agrees that arbitrarily ruling out any particular single measure would be counterproductive and undermine this Council’s Net Zero ambitions.
Page 18
Council notes that the UK government has classed pollution as the largest environmental risk to public health and that the government estimates that human- made air pollution is responsible for annual mortality figures of 28,000 - 36,000. Given that the UK government has estimated that by 2025 the total cost to the NHS and the social care system of the effects of air pollutants will be £1.6 billion, council agrees that options to protect public health and save lives should be considered when appropriate and that these decisions should be guided by evidence for the best possible health outcomes. Sederunt Councillor McGonigle left the meeting prior to consideration of the following item of business. 18 Notice of Motion 10 by Councillors Innes and McEwan There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Innes and McEwan in the following terms: “WILDFLOWER PLANTING WORKSHOPS Council thanks The Conservation Volunteers and Renfrewshire Council’s Team Up to Clean Up campaign in their collaborative effort in providing wildflower planting workshops for community groups around Renfrewshire. Council notes that community volunteers in Houston, Inchinnan and Paisley took part in the workshops, learning to create, improve and care for local green spaces that will benefit local communities in Renfrewshire going forward. Further Council welcomes this joint effort with The Conservation Volunteers and the opportunities this provides for enhancing our environment and tackling the climate emergency." Councillor Innes, seconded by Councillor McEwan, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Wildflower Planting Workshops Council thanks The Conservation Volunteers and Renfrewshire Council’s Team Up to Clean Up campaign in their collaborative effort in providing wildflower planting workshops for community groups around Renfrewshire. Council notes that community volunteers in Houston, Inchinnan and Paisley took part in the workshops, learning to create, improve and care for local green spaces that will benefit local communities in Renfrewshire going forward. Further Council welcomes this joint effort with The Conservation Volunteers and the opportunities this provides for enhancing our environment and tackling the climate emergency.
Page 19
Sederunt Councillors Shaw and K MacLaren left the meeting prior to consideration of the following item of business. 19 Notice of Motion 11 by Councillors Innes and MacFarlane There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Innes and MacFarlane in the following terms: “ENERGY BILL SUPPORT SCHEME” Renfrewshire Council calls for the UK Government to reintroduce the Energy Bill Support Scheme and provide struggling households in Renfrewshire with a £400 energy bill rebate. Council notes that peoples energy bills have almost doubled since 2021 and recent hikes in standing charges mean this support is essential for people in Renfrewshire this winter." Councillor Innes, seconded by Councillor MacFarlane, then moved the motion. Councillor Graham, seconded by Leishman, moved as an amendment: “Council welcomes that the energy price cap is set to fall again this winter saving each household on average £151 on their energy bills. Council notes the UK gov has spent an unprecedented 12 billion pounds on helping the most vulnerable in Renfrewshire and around the UK to mitigate the costs of rising fuel costs. Council notes the Winter Heat Payment has replaced the Cold Weather Payment. Council agrees to write to the Scottish Government to roll out the Winter Heat Payment earlier than February 2024 to help the most vulnerable people in Renfrewshire”. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors N Graham, Gray, Leishman and J MacLaren. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Ann- Dowling, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Gilmour, G Graham, Hannigan, Hood, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, M MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McEwan, McGuire, McGurk, McMillan, McNaughtan, Montgomery, Mullin, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Smith and Steel. 4 members having voted for the amendment, 35 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried.
Page 20
DECIDED: Energy Bill Support Scheme Renfrewshire Council calls for the UK Government to reintroduce the Energy Bill Support Scheme and provide struggling households in Renfrewshire with a £400 energy bill rebate. Council notes that people’s energy bills have almost doubled since 2021 and recent hikes in standing charges mean this support is essential for people in Renfrewshire this winter. 20 Notice of Motion 12 by Councillors Shaw and Hughes There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Shaw and Hughes in the following terms: "Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band - World Champions Renfrewshire Council congratulates our Renfrewshire Schools Pipe band on becoming World Champions at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, beating 28 bands in their category to take first place. The win at the ‘Worlds’ the culmination of a wonderful season which seen them win competitions in Gourock, Lochore, Renfrew, North Berwick and Cowal on top of a Scottish Championship win and runners up at the European Championships. Council is proud of our young musicians, led by Pipe Major Keith Bowes Jr, and commends their dedication in developing the skills and talent needed to become World Champions and wishes them the very best of success in future competitions." Councillor Hughes, seconded by Councillor Paterson, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band - World Champions Renfrewshire Council congratulates our Renfrewshire Schools Pipe band on becoming World Champions at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, beating 28 bands in their category to take first place. The win at the ‘Worlds’ the culmination of a wonderful season which seen them win competitions in Gourock, Lochore, Renfrew, North Berwick and Cowal on top of a Scottish Championship win and runners up at the European Championships. Council is proud of our young musicians, led by Pipe Major Keith Bowes Jr, and commends their dedication in developing the skills and talent needed to become World Champions and wishes them the very best of success in future competitions.