Public reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 13 September 2023
Back to Oban Lorn & The Isles Area Committee — 13 September 2023 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Argyll and Bute Council Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheal Agus Bhòid Executive Director: Douglas Hendry Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 602127 Fax: 01546 604435 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 6 September 2023 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the OBAN LORN & THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE will be held ON A HYBRID BASIS ON MICROSOFT TEAMS AND IN THE MCCAIG SUITE, CORRAN HALLS, OBAN on WEDNESDAY, 13 SEPTEMBER 2023 at 10:30 AM, which you are requested to attend. Douglas Hendry Executive Director BUSINESS 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTES (a) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee - Meeting held on 14 June 2023 (Pages 3 - 14) (b) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group - Meeting held on 16 August 2023 (Pages 15 - 24) (c) Oban Common Good Fund - Meeting Held on 22 May 2023 (Pages 25 - 28) (d) Oban Common Good Fund - Meeting held on 21 August 2023 (Pages 29 - 32) 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 5. AREA SCORECARD FQ1 2023/24 (Pages 33 - 72) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services 6. RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE (Pages 73 - 80) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services. 7. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE (Pages 81 - 84) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services Public Document Pack
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8. PLAY PARK ENGAGEMENT - UPDATE REPORT (Pages 85 - 92) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 9. SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - MONITORING OF PROJECTS FUNDED (Pages 93 - 110) Report by Chief Executive 10. APPOINTMENT TO OUTSIDE ORGANISATIONS (Pages 111 - 114) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support REPORT FOR NOTING 11. DRAFT OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN (Pages 115 - 118) REPORT FOR DECISION 12. JOHN OF LORN BEQUEST AWARD RECOMMENDATIONS (a) Report by Executive Director responsible for Legal and Regulatory Support (Pages 119 - 122) E1 (b) Exempt Appendix (Pages 123 - 124) The Council will be asked to pass a resolution in terms of Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to exclude the public for items of business with an “E” on the grounds that it is likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in the appropriate paragraph of Part I of Schedule 7a to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. The appropriate paragraph is:- E1 Paragraph 6 Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (other than the authority). Oban Lorn & The Isles Area Committee Councillor Kieron Green (Vice-Chair) Councillor Amanda Hampsey Councillor Willie Hume Councillor Andrew Kain (Chair) Councillor Jim Lynch Councillor Luna Martin Councillor Julie McKenzie Councillor Andrew Vennard Contact: Melissa Stewart, Governance Officer - 01546 604331
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MINUTES of MEETING of OBAN LORN & THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE held in the ON A HYBRID BASIS ON MICROSOFT TEAMS AND IN THE MCCAIG SUITE, CORRAN HALLS, OBAN on WEDNESDAY, 14 JUNE 2023 Present: Councillor Andrew Kain (Chair) Councillor Kieron Green Councillor Amanda Hampsey Councillor Willie Hume Councillor Jim Lynch Councillor Luna Martin Councillor Andrew Vennard Attending: Wendy Brownlie, Head of Education – Learning & Teaching Peter Bain, Head Teacher, Oban and Tiree High School Shelley Carmichael, Head Teacher, Tiree High School Aileen Jackson, Deputy Head Oban High School Aine Cooney, Tiree High School Susie Carmichael, Head Teacher Lochdon & Ulva Primary School Bernie MacMillan, Head Teacher Taynuilt Primary School Rachel Binnie, Education Manager Mark Calder, Project Manager, Roads and Infrastructure Adrian Jackson-Stark, Project Manager, Development and Economic Growth Melissa Stewart, Governance Officer Stewart Watson, Assistant Networks and Standards Manager Genna Lugue, Regeneration Officer, Development and Economic Growth David Hagerty, Community Development Officer 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting. Apologies were intimated on behalf of Councillor Julie McKenzie. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTES (a) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee - 8 March 2023 The Minute of the meeting of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee, held on 8 March 2023, was approved as a correct record. (b) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group - 10 May 2023 The Minute of the meeting of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group, held on 10 May 2023, was noted. Page 3 Agenda Item 3a
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(c) Oban Common Good Fund - 30 March 2023 The Minute of the meeting of the Oban Common Good Fund held on 30 March 2023, was noted. 4. OBAN HIGH SCHOOL ATTAINMENT REPORT The Committee heard from Mrs Jackson, Deputy Head Teacher of Oban High School, who picked out some highlights from the school report which had been provided to Members. The report included information in relation to vocational additions to Curriculum for 4th, 5th and 6th year pupils; the pass rates of National qualifications and the Insight dashboard, shows the school is above the virtual comparators in most subjects. Information in relation to wider achievement qualifications; equity and attainment and Pupil Equity Funding was also provided. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the contents of the report and information provided. (Reference: Report by Head Teacher, Oban High School, dated June 2023, submitted) 5. TIREE HIGH SCHOOL ATTAINMENT REPORT The Committee heard from Ms Cooney, Senior Deputy Teacher of Tiree High School, who picked out some highlights from the school report which had been provided to Members. The report relates to the attainment of Curriculum for Excellence levels in literacy and numeracy and Gaelic; the pass rates of National qualifications and the Insight dashboard. 75% of the Teachers are now dual qualified which allows pupils to be offered 52 subjects compared to on 31 last year; NAT 5 results in literacy and numeracy had improved; and that 100% of pupils gained full employment going to university. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the contents of the report and information provided. (Reference: Report by Head Teacher, Tiree High School, dated June 2023, submitted) 6. TOBERMORY HIGH SCHOOL ATTAINMENT REPORT The Committee heard from Ms Carmichael, Head Teacher of Tobermory High School, who picked out some highlights from the school report which had been provided to Members. The report included information in relation to attainment of Curriculum for Excellence levels in literacy and numeracy and Gaelic; the pass rates of National qualifications and the Insight dashboard. Since the COVID pandemic the focus has been on wellbeing working with community links and there was a recent trip on the Waverley Steamer from P1s and up which was a successful and enjoyable experience for all. Page 4
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Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the contents of the report and information provided. (Reference: Report by Head Teacher, Tobermory High School, dated June 2023, submitted) 7. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME Duncan Martin – Oban Community Council The opportunities for more academic pupils has been talked about. How well are schools stretching more gifted pupils? Peter Bain commented that there are 98 subjects on the curriculum and that the number of students leaving with 8 or more highers places the school in the top 20 in the country. Mr Bain also explained that academics were not purely the focus and that pupils, in addition to qualifications, also required to demonstrate experiences of disciplinary learning and personal endeavour. Duncan Martin reflected that he was a friend of a parent whose child went to Cambridge University and that they hadn’t felt the support offer to pupils going to University outside of Scotland had been as well supported. Mr Bain advised that Schools seek to support every individual and provide any necessary certification to get into any University in Scotland. He commented that schools do have networks that pupils going to Universities in England or Europe and pupils are put in touch with others who have direct experience. He also stated that schools offer interview training and support to sit entrance tests. The Secondary School Head Teachers, and Depute Head Teachers, left the meeting at this point and the Committee considered the questions that had been submitted in advance of the meeting before taking questions from those attending. Question 1 – 4 - Frank Roberts, Oban Community Council It has often been suggested to me that parking wardens are routinely sent from OLI to other areas, leaving Oban under resourced. Will the Council please advise therefore:- 1. During the year 2022-23 how many parking wardens (FTE) were employed in each respective council area (by quarter)? 2. Were parking wardens re-allocated from OLI to other areas during their normal working hours and on how many occasions also by quarter? 3. Were parking wardens from OLI offered overtime to work in other Council areas and if so what areas? 4. Have other parking wardens from other Council areas been sent to OLI either during their normal working hours or as overtime? I would like to Council to respond in writing and would like a time limit on the response. Page 5
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The questions will be put to the relevant department and Councillor Kain will request that the response is issued timeously. Question 5 – Roddy McCuish Roddy submitted the following question prior to the meeting by email:- I recently reported rat increase of some alarming numbers at the junction of Polvinister Road and Glencruitten Road. I thought the quickest way to investigate this problem was to approach one of my elected members. I contacted Cllr Lynch who replied very promptly and reported it to the relevant department. Unfortunately he was told the warden was unexpectedly unavailable at the moment and would look at it on their return. I fully understand that staff may be unavailable for various reasons. Surely there are other staff who can cover for the warden or even have someone seconded from another area. As you are all very aware Oban is very busy and to be without a warden of any sort is not a good position to be in as their duties are many. Also I hasten to add the workload this person will have to come back to will place tremendous pressure on them. Mark Calder responded to the question stating that in reality the answer is No; there is no mechanism in place to cover unavailable environment wardens in each geographical area. Mr Calder, commented that as a former Councillor, Mr McCuish may recall, the service underwent significant savings which resulted the Environment Wardens cut from 9 to 4. As a consequence there is no provision to cover when a warden is off. Question 6 – B T MacDougall B T MacDougall submitted the following question by email prior to the meeting:- Have any of the representatives been to visit the two Piers in Taynuilt recently which are overcrowding with motorhomes, stealth caravans and tents which have resulted not only in human excrement and toilet paper in almost every shrub along the beach and repeated anti-social behaviour such as emptying cassette toilets into the Loch, driving on the beach and reckless driving on the single track road towards the Piers. This has been reported to the council and the police, yet police patrols seem to have ceased or greatly reduced since the arrival of the sunny weather. What needs to happen before this issue is being addressed by the council and police? The local resident Otter population has already moved further up the river and it will only be a question of when and not if with all the fire pits etc before the wildlife is further impacted. I am all for tourism but this is purely vandalism. Mark Calder was able to pick up on part of the question, in that the Council would not have any responsibility for the piers or adjacent carparks as the land belongs to someone else. Any anti-social behaviour should be reported directly to Police Page 6
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Scotland, however, fly tipping can be reported to the Council using the online form or by phoning the Council’s Contact Centre. Chair stated that in essence the problems should be reported to the relevant Land Owners. Question 7 – Neil MacIntyre Question submitted by email prior to the meeting:- Could you please put a question to Mark Calder or any officer that’s present about how much CCTV plans will cost if it goes ahead. Even a projected cost would be great if they are putting these plans together and are waiting for further information. Mark Calder advised that the costs are negligible between £500 - £2000 which could be absorbed as part of the existing budget. We would be looking at installing 1 – 2 cameras at Ganavan possibly on the toilet block and one elsewhere to cover the area. At the moment we are working with the Council’s Term Contractor who provides support for all our CCTV systems across the whole area, to agree a specification with them and get their professional advice on the appropriate system for the area. Question 8 – Laura Corbe, Keeping Oban Beautiful Laura submitted the following question by email prior the meeting:- We, a community collective led by Keep Oban Beautiful & with volunteers from amongst others Oban High School, would like to ask for permission to work on council land to rehabilitate a small stretch of woodland located close to the high school. The goal is to create a wellness walk & woodland heaven in this otherwise unused scrap of land. We do not wish to acquire the land, which may not be possible anyway as I believe Scottish water may have an interest there, but would like to have all permissions/risk assessments/training/ paperwork in place to begin work by the start of the 23/24 academic year. There are several invasive species which we will endeavour to remove however there is a small amount of Japanese Knotweed establishing on site & we’d also like to request Council arrange for its permanent removal as soon as possible. Mark Calder advised that this is not something that they were aware of but are happy to work with any group who are willing to take any vacant and disused land and do something positive with it for the Community. He confirmed he had Laura’s contact details and will get in touch with her directly to take this forward and that he hoped to have an update for the next Area Committee. Duncan Martin asked if the Council have any plans to deal with the eradication of Japanese Knotweed at the Black Lynn next to the Bridge Café? Mark Calder advised that he is not sure of the areas specified and would need to find out if the Council is responsible for the removal Japanese Knotweed in the areas. The Council does have a Policy for the Eradication of Japanese Knotweed which he will circulate to the Members and Duncan for their perusal. Page 7
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Councillor Hume advised that the Council Policy is to spray the Japanese Knotweed in the Autumn which does not eradicate completely, it is an invasive species which requires to be pulled out at the root. Councillor Luna Martin believes the Council Policy is to inject the Knotweed twice a year, however, there has been a couple of issues raised concerning the cleaning of the council vehicles after the treatment of the Knotweed, which could cause cross contamination? Mark Calder did not agree that this was the case, there are mechanisms in place for the cleaning of vehicles following work will all invasive species. Question 9 – Marri Malloy – Oban Community Council Following a recent visit to Ganavan I witnessed 2 large Campervans parked in the bays with them a car taking up a further space and all their diving equipment taking up another space. It has been in the papers recently that with the issue of camper vans councils are employing specific wardens for this problem which are funded by the Scottish Government – are Argyll and Bute Council going to employ such wardens in Oban and if so, will they be deployed to Helensburgh as the current traffic wardens are. I know the TRO is coming up later in the Agenda, but we will not be permitted to ask questions during that items, so will the TRO cover Ganavan? Councillor Kain advised that the funding and wardens is not something we are aware of and asked Mark to add this to his list. Councillor Green added that the wardens in Highland were funded by Nature Scotland. Stuart Watson advised that the Council has 6 traffic/amenity wardens to cover 116 carparks and 2.5km of road, they are put out to where they are most needed and where the demand is higher. Oban has the highest rate of attendance at 80% for a traffic warden to be on site within the town. In terms of Ganavan the Traffic Order was never installed there to raise revenue, the 2 hours free time was to allow people to walk dogs, walk the cycle path and recreational time. The traffic wardens do attend Ganavan, we have worked closely with the Police and the Environment Wardens done joint site visits and there has never been any evidence to what is reported to us. The police have written to us to state there has been no evidence anti-social behaviour. In comparison to Highland Council where they have a warden to every 500 spaces, Argyll and Bute have a warden to every 1200 spaces, also the Oban wardens are not just covering Oban they are OLI wardens so have to travel to Craignure, Fionnphort and Iona which is a whole working day away from Oban. Councillor Hampsey asked if the traffic wardens have a schedule to kept to and show how often they attend Ganavan and whether there is an aim as to where these wardens should be and how much time they attend these areas? Stuart advised that wardens do not have a schedule to follow as the public would pick up on when and where they would be in the area. Wardens also do cash collections and whilst they are carrying out these duties they are unable to do enforcement. Page 8
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Question 10 – Marri Malloy – Oban Community Council On reading the report on Play Parks, Helensburgh received £368,500 for 11, play parks, Oban received £33,500 for, it seems, 2 Play Parks, MAKI received £368,500 for 12 and Bute & Cowal received £167,500 for 5. The report mentions 1 new playpark, and I can only assume that is Atlantis Leisure. As the Play Park at Atlantis Leisure has been deemed new it has not been funded, it has been closed on numerous occasions as it supposed to be maintained by Argyll and Bute Council and we have been told it is because there is no funding. So why has Oban not received more of the funding to allow Atlantis Play Park to be maintained up to standard? It also seems that the children in OLI are unimportant when they only have 2 playparks and the other areas have 11 and 12. Councillor Kain advised that the funding was for improvements not maintenance. Mark Calder agreed that the funding from the Scottish Government was for playparks, which the Council are responsible for, to be used for improvements and upgrades, broken or unsafe equipment to be replaced. Mark also stated that there is a live consultation going on at the moment regarding Play Parks, which can be found on the Council’s website. The Governance Officer confirmed that the information and link had been emailed to all Community Councils, but will send around again. Question 12 – Duncan Martin Duncan had a question in relation to the TRO which is coming up later in the Agenda. The Chair confirmed that he would allow the question to be raised at the relevant item. Duncan’s second question - Oban’s raison d'etre is its harbour and the project to create a 21st century governance structure for our harbour is the single most important task at the moment yet neither Mr Smith nor Ms Flanagan consider it important to attend these meetings. I consider that an insult to the people of Oban and the users of our Harbour. I would like to ask whether at this stage it is possible for the Area Committee to ask the Harbour Board to revisit its decision 18 months ago to proceed towards a municipal port. Five years ago in this building Mr Smith stated that the Council did not want to run Oban harbour because it lacked the expertise and capability to do so. Over the past five years the Council Officers have established the truth of that statement beyond any doubt. The task of creating a new Harbour Authority is one which, following Scottish Government Policy, should have been co-produced with the communities - the geographical and the users. The role of the Council should not have been to lead the project but to provide administrative and legal support. But there is a problem : community empowerment means that centre loses power. And those at the centre will always find reasons why they can't let go. Page 9
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After stalling for at least two years they convinced the Board 18 months ago that a municipal port was the simpler and therefore presumably quicker option and anyway OCHDA didn't have a Business Plan. Now we still don't have an HRO and there's no sign of the Council's Business plan either. Everyone around this project is convinced that if the proper co-production process had been followed we would have had a Harbour Trust in place at least two years ago. Even now, I believe that the expertise within or available to OCHDA could produce the proper paperwork in a few weeks. Councillor Kain, in response, pointed out that he was fairly knowledgeable on the Harbour having read all the paperwork going back to 2012. Kirsty Flannigan and Jim Smith are both significantly engaged and properly exercised in their duties to Oban Harbour, Oban and the wider community. Jim is in other meetings today and Kirsty, as a Director, is significantly engaged but I did talk with both yesterday. With regards to the process, the Harbour Revision Order is sitting with the Scottish Government, and the Council awaits that response. At the appropriate time there will be a special Harbour Board. We are due to have a Harbour Boards Business Day where a designated person, independent from the Council, will be in attendance to brief us, he is the designated person for several ports and is fully aware that the Council is on track to getting a Harbour. If, as suggested, at the December Harbour Board Meeting, that we delay in submitting Revision Order, we would be significantly behind in the process now. This is going forward it is out with our hands, it sits with the Scottish Government and Transport Scotland to get to the next stage, where there will then be a Special Harbour Board Meeting to approve it, followed by a 40 day statutory consultation with all users. The extent of the views on the Harbour Board are to such an extent we are not looking at a parochial harbour but it is a strategic port for Argyll and the whole of Scotland and the broader community and stakeholders include Barra, Mull, Iona, Coll, Tiree and Colonsay. It is their lifeline and once this is established OCHDA will be involved in the Port. Councillor Kain reiterated that it is just not an Oban Bay Port, it is a strategic port for Scotland, and Jim Smith and Kirsty Flannigan are well exercised in the importance of this harbour. There were follow up questions and comments from Marri Malloy, Frank Roberts and Duncan Martin regarding the need for public consultation on the Order, that there was no monetary benefit for the residents of Oban, perceived lack of financial planning and vision, and that there would be a public enquiry and potential for delays if the Order was as reported. Councillor Kain and Councillor Vennard made the point that there was no sense in revisiting the historic situation. Councillor Lynch agreed commenting we were dealing with the here and now and that he hoped the community council could play a role in widening access when the public consultation was undertaken. Councillor Kain commented that there has been considerable misrepresentation on what the Order is going to be and its intent. He felt that the intention would become clearer when the actual Harbour Revision Order comes back, and the re-iterated the intention to create a municipal harbour which will have greater economic development across Argyll. Page 10
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Phil Hamerton, OCHDA, commented that a development plan could follow the Order. He said that he had hoped there would be a role around future vision and plans in co-creation but until the Order was in place then it’s a chicken and egg problem. Mark Calder responded on the point about financial planning, setting out that the marine estate is managed through a 10 year rolling asset management plan and that there were examples of return on investment across the marine estate. He did not feel statements about lack of financial planning were borne out of any evidence. 8. PRIMARY SCHOOL AREA ATTAINMENT REPORT - OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES (OLI) The Committee gave consideration to a report and presentation given by Ms Carmichael, Head Teacher of Ulva and Lochdon Primary Schools and Ms MacMillan, Head Teacher for Taynuilt Primary which provided a range of key information about primary school provision in the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area during the school session August 2022 to June 2023 and reported the National collection of attainment and achievement data from June 2022. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education dated June 2023, submitted) 9. AREA SCORECARD FQ4 2022/23 Consideration was given to the Area Performance Report for financial quarter 4 of 2022/23 (January to March 2023) which illustrated the agreed performance measures for this period. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee: 1. noted and considered the performance and supporting commentary as presented; 2. noted that upon receipt of the Quarterly Performance Report the Area Committee should contact either the Responsible Named Officer or Sonya Thomas with any queries; and 3. noted that work is ongoing and to respond to Sonya Thomas with requests or comments regarding the layout and format of the Performance Report and Scorecard. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services, dated 4 May 2023, submitted) Page 11
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10. CEMETERY MAINTENANCE AND ROAD ACCESS FUND The Committee gave consideration to a report that provided options on how to spend £75,000 that had been allocated from the Crown Estates funding to a Cemetery Maintenance and Roads Access Fund. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee: 1. agreed the package of proposals up to the value of £75,000; and 2. noted that regular updates would be provided via the Roads and Infrastructure weekly briefings. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated June 2023, submitted) 11. TRAFFIC REGULATION ORDER PROPOSED FOR OBAN The Committee gave consideration to the updated draft report of the Oban on street Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) following officer engagement via the Community Participation Request process. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee agreed that the draft “Argyll and Bute (various streets Oban) (Amendment) Order 220_(TRO) is made. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated June 2023, submitted) 12. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATE The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided links to the recent activities of Roads and Infrastructure Services relevant to the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated June 2023, submitted) 13. GIBRALTAR STREET PUBLIC REALM PROJECT UPDATE The Committee gave consideration to an updated report on the Gibraltar Street Public Realm Project. Page 12
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Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee: 1. Noted the content of this report and 2. Considered and agreed an officer approach with regard to public consultation on proposed bespoke signage. 14. HSCP BI-ANNUAL UPDATE REPORT It was noted that representative, Evan Beswick, had left the meeting due to a prior commitment and that if anyone has any comments, the Governance Officer is happy to feed back to HSCP. Consideration was given to the HSCP Annual Performance Report for 2022-23. The report detailed how the HSCP had performed and also provided progress updates on how they have improved and adapted services which are fit for the future. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Chief Officer, Health and Social Care Partnership, dated June 2023, submitted) 15. SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND 2023/24 Consideration was given to a report which detailed recommendations for the award of the Council’s Supporting Communities Fund (SCF) for the 2023/24 round of funding that had been made available in the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee agreed that the 18 applications, marked as ‘Award’ within Appendix 1 of the report, are awarded funding from the Supporting Communities Fund Budget totalling £35,843.79, as follows: 16. JOHN OF LORN BEQUEST (a) Report by Executive Director responsible for Legal and Regulatory Support The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided information regarding 23 applications that had been received for support from the John of Lorn Bequest. Of the applications received 3 were refused as they did not meet the criteria with £1.9k being awarded to 20 applicants. Decision Page 13
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The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted and considered the number of awards made since December 2022. 17. DRAFT OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN The Committee gave consideration to the Area Committee workplan for future meetings. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee considered and noted the contents of the workplan. Page 14
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MINUTES of MEETING of OBAN LORN & THE ISLES COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP held in the BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on WEDNESDAY, 16 AUGUST 2023 Present: Ryan MacIntyre, Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament, Chair Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Andrew Kain, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Jim Lynch, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Andrew Vennard, Argyll and Bute Council Sergeant Matt Shaw, Police Scotland Robert Taylor, Scottish Fire and Rescue Maureen Evans, Community Learning, Live Argyll Laura Corbe, Climate Change Working Group Judith Hawcroft, North Argyll Carers Carol Flett, Argyll and the Islands Living Well Network Jen Broadhurst, Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Duncan Martin, Oban Community Council Marri Malloy, Oban Community Council Catriona Petit, Hope Kitchen Ali Martin, Minority Ethnic Carers of People Project Attending: Antonia Baird, Community Development Officer Charlie Murphy, Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) Iain Adams, Transport Scotland Gordon Ramsay, Transport Scotland Rory Gunn, Atkins WSP Joint Ventures Logan Gilmour, Logan Gilmour Maurice Wilkins, Keeping Oban Beautiful Mali Gravell, Project Lead for Food Policy and Delivery, Argyll and Bute Council 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES Following Kevin Champion’s intimation to stand down as Chair at the previous meeting, the Vice Chair, Ryan MacIntyre welcomed everyone to the meeting and general introductions were made. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of:- John McLuckie, Community Planning Partnership Lead Councillor Amanda Hampsey, Argyll and Bute Council Samantha Campbell, Health and Social Care Partnership Jane Fowler, Head of Customer and Support Services Linda Battison, Oban Tourism Alliance Page 15 Agenda Item 3b
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Jim Tolmie, Oban & District Access Panel Linda Duncan, Crossroads Jane Metcalf, Coll Community Council 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTES (a) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group 10 May 2023 The minutes of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group held on 10 May 2023 were approved as a correct record. 4. APPOINTMENT OF CHAIR TO AREA COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP The Group gave consideration to a report advising members of the procedure to be followed when electing officer bearers and asked the Group to consider the appointment of Chair to the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group. The Committee Manager invited nominations from those on the call for the position. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group:- 1. agreed to elect, Ryan MacIntyre Member of Scottish Youth Parliament, as Chair of group for the next 2 year period; and 2. noted that nominations for the position of Vice Chair would be sought at the next meeting. (Reference: Report by Committee Manager, 16 August 2023, submitted) 5. COMMUNITY PLANNING Antonia Baird, Community Development Officer at Argyll and Bute Council, provided the Group with an overview of Community Planning in Argyll and Bute. The presentation included information on the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015; the roles and responsibilities of the Community Planning Team; where the Area Community Planning Groups fit into the partnership and their relationship with the Management Committee; cross cutting themes and principles of effective community planning. The presentation also included information on the development day which is held once a year; action plans for each of the Area Community Planning Groups as well Page 16
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as the Argyll and Bute’s Outcome Improvement Plan and how the Community Planning Team communicate with partners and members of the groups. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation by Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council) 6. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE UPDATE Consideration was given to a briefing note which provided information on matters discussed during a meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee, held on 22 June 2023. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Community Planning Group considered and noted the briefing note. (Reference: Report by Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 16 August 2023, submitted) 7. TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE (a) Public Transport Provision In the absence of the report of Public Transport Provision within Oban, Lorn and the Isles, it was agreed to carry forward this agenda item to the next meeting. (b) Access to Argyll and Bute (A83) The Group gave consideration to a presentation by Transport Scotland and Atkins WSP Joint Ventures on the permanent solution for the A83. The presentation included information that had been delivered at both virtual and in person public exhibitions within in the locality, specifically key features and benefits of the preferred route; the preferred route plan; the scheme assessment process and the next stages of the assessment and construction phases. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation by Transport Scotland and Atkins WSP Joint Page 17
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Ventures) 8. HOPE KITCHEN PARTNERSHIP ARRANGEMENTS The Group gave consideration to a report and general introduction to the Connecting Communities Collective, which is a new partnership involving Hope Kitchen, Atlantis Leisure, Lorn Health Options, ALIenergy and the Youth Café who are working together to reach and serve more people within the Community. Catriona Petit advised that they have secured funding from the Community-Led Local Development Fund and Investing in Communities Fund, which will support the project for the next 3 years. Catriona further advised that a Development Officer has been employed to help organise events and link up work and events with other partnerships and seek new development opportunities. Hope Kitchen are launching a new short survey for new projects which will open on 22nd August 2023. Partners were encouraged to complete the survey via the following LINK - https://forms.gle/hpSntN15T9bG8q1C8 Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the report. (Reference: Report by Mika Schroder, Development Officer, Connecting Communities Collective, August 2023) 9. COMMUNITY WEALTH BUILDING The Group gave consideration to a presentation on Community Wealth Building from Charlie Murphy from CLES (Centre for Local Economic Strategies). Charlie highlighted that the CLES mission is to develop local economies which work for people, planet and place and that it is the lead organisation for Community Wealth Building in the UK. Charlie advised the Group that CLES have been commissioned by the TSI on behalf of the CPP to conduct research on Community Wealth Building in Argyll and Bute. It was highlighted that CLES would be running a workshop in Oban on the 6th September exploring Community Wealth Building in Argyll and Bute. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation by Charlie Murphy, Centre for Local Economic Strategies) 10. PARTNERS UPDATE (a) Police Scotland Page 18
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The Group gave consideration to an update provided by Sergeant Matthew Shaw, which included information on the ongoing work of the Service and provided information on the expansion of the Partners intelligence portal; youth engagement activities and Social Media and Banking Fraud. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Police Scotland, submitted) (b) Scotland Fire & Rescue The Group gave consideration to a written report from the Scotland Fire and Rescue. As no-one was in attendance from the fire service, the Committee Manager advised that he would relay any questions back to them with regards to the report. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted) (c) Skills Development Scotland The Group gave consideration to a written report from Skills Development Scotland (SDS). As no-one was in attendance from the SDS, the Committee Manager advised that he would relay any questions back to them with regards to the report. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and note the report. (Reference: Report submitted by Skills Development Scotland, 16 August 2023) (d) Live Argyll - Community Learning Development The Group gave consideration to an update from Maureen Evans Live Argyll - Community Learning Services. The update provided information relating to the GIVE summer Programme; Summer Sensations was a 2 day induction programme for P6/7 pupils from all primary schools in the area in partnership with Atlantis Leisure, Active Schools, Youth Café and Hebridean Pursuits. Maureen also advised that Community Learning Development are also going to be working in partnership with Police Scotland in setting up diversionary activities for youths. Page 19
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Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the report. (Reference: Report by Live Argyll – Community Learning Development, 16 August 2023) (e) Crossroads North Argyll The Group gave consideration to a written report from Crossroads North Argyll. As no-one was in attendance from Crossroads, the Committee Manager advised that he would relay any questions back to them with regards to the report. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and note the report. (Reference: Report submitted by Crossroads North Argyll, 16 August 2023) (f) Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership - Public Health Update The Group considered a public health update from the Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) on the ongoing wellbeing and prevention activities overseen and delivered by the HSCP Public Health Team in Argyll and Bute. The update highlighted information on the Public Health Intelligence Team (PHIT); the Money Counts Level 1 awareness raising sessions; the Living Well Networks and the merge of the Living Well Strategy and Prevention Board. As no-one was in attendance from the HSCP, the Committee Manager advised that he would relay any questions back to them with regards to the report. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and note the report. (Reference: Report by Health Improvement Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, submitted) (g) Living Well Network The Group gave consideration to a report provided by the Oban and Lorn and the Island Living Well Network. Carol Flett advised of the recent and upcoming work that the Network had scheduled, including a zoom meeting that took place on 23rd June focussing on Community and Patient Transport; A “Living Well on Coll” event took place on 16th August at An Page 20
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Creidh where there were 15 people in attendance; the next meeting of the Living Well Network will take place by Zoom on 29th November the focus of which will be Signposting specifically how to disperse as much information to communities on what support is available to them. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the report. (Reference: Report by Oban and Lorn and the Islands Living Well Network, 7 August 2023) (h) Argyll and Bute TSI The Group gave consideration to a report from the Argyll and Bute TSI which highlighted that at the June 2023 Community Planning Partnership (CPP), the Argyll and Bute TSI Chief Executive Officer presented a fourth paper on moving the local Community Wealth Building (CWB) agenda further forward and that at the end of June, TSI commissioned a three day Combined First Aid at Work and Paediatric First Aid course at Atlantis Leisure Centre in Oban for Third Sector organisations. The report also provided information on future events such as the next meeting of the Argyll and Bute Social Enterprise Network which is scheduled for Thursday 24th August at 2pm in the newly refurbished Inverary Hub. As no-one was in attendance from the TSI, the Committee Manager advised that he would relay any questions back to them with regards to the report. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the report. (Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute TSI, 31st July 2023) (i) Opportunity for Partner Verbal Updates Jen Broadhurst, Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Jen Broadhurst highlighted that Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) have been very busy and have supported just under 800 clients in the last 3 months with 370 of those being new to the bureau with the majority being in relation to welfare rights. Of those clients 218 were provided with welfare rights support, 41 were supported to access digital, food or fuel crisis funding. Jen added that the overall client financial gain, generated from the advice provided was just under £360,000 with 78% of the funding being generated by Welfare Rights. Jen also provided information on other areas such as the new data hub Page 21
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which provides statistical data on the range of clients that they support across the region; debt advice; the Armed Services advice project which has been extended until the end of the year; energy advice; the adviser training programme; the cost of care research; the updating of the Bureau’s business plan and the wellbeing networking event which is to be held on the 13th September. Catriona Petit, Hope Kitchen Catriona highlighted that Hope Kitchen had been working in partnership with West Highland Housing Association and ALIenergy by providing a space for clients to come in and receive housing and energy advice. Hope Kitchen will also be hosting a fund raiser Grand Quiz at the Corran Halls on 16th September 2023, all partners are welcome to attend. Judith Hawcroft, North Argyll Carers Judith highlighted that the North Argyll Carers are supporting 817 unpaid carers, 150 of which are young carers. Referrals are coming in thick and fast and that staff are working at capacity to ensure referrals are dealt with as they come in. Judith advised that the carer vacancy on Tiree had been filled, but that the post on Coll remains vacant. During the summer 22 young carers were taken to the Young Carers Festival, where they had the opportunity to relax and enjoy being children and shrug off their responsibility for a while. and enjoy being children and shrug off their responsibility for a while. Ryan MacIntyre, Scottish Youth Parliament Ryan advised that the International Overdose Day was held and filmed in Dunoon and that this would be shared with partners and elections are scheduled with partners encouraged to share information with the young people they work with. 11. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Keep Oban Beautiful The Group considered a presentation by Maurice Wilkins of Keep Oban Beautiful which provided information on how the group was started. Maurice also highlighted some of the projects the group had been, involved in such as removing invasive alien plants and litter, tree planting and providing a seating area overlooking the burn and the Oban Spring Clean. Future plans for the group include a waterfall walk on wasteland adjacent to Oban High School and McCaig’s Tower, planters and boxes within the town and campaigning for better protection of Oban’s green spaces and to connect these green spaces to create a wildlife corridor through the town. Decision Page 22
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The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation by Maurice Wilkins, Keep Oban Beautiful, August 2023, submitted) 12. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Climate Change Working Group Highlight Report Consideration was given to a report which highlighted the ongoing work of the Climate Change Working Group. The report outlined the proposal to produce a strategic Action Plan as a means to address the climate emergency in Argyll and Bute; the approved governance arrangements to support the Climate Change Project Manager post and the ongoing work on the recruitment of a Project Manager. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Chair of the Community Planning Partnership Climate Change Working Group, dated 2 August 2023, submitted) (b) Progress on Argyll and Bute Climate Hub It was noted that a written update from Argyll and Bute TSI would be circulated to the Group following the meeting and that any questions should be sent to the Committee Manager to forward to the Argyll and Bute TSI for consideration and response as appropriate. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group noted the update. (c) Opportunity for Verbal Updates on Community Based Initiatives There were no verbal updates provided under this item. 13. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The Chair thanked everyone in attendance at the meeting, and thanked all partners for their continued proactive work in the community. The Group noted that the next meeting of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group would take place on Wednesday 8th November 2023. Page 23
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MINUTES of MEETING of OBAN COMMON GOOD FUND held in the MICROSOFT TEAMS on MONDAY, 22 MAY 2023 Present: Councillor Andrew Kain (Chair) Councillor Kieron Green Councillor Luna Martin Attending: Melissa Stewart, Governance Officer Marri Malloy, Independent Observer 1. APOLOGIES Apologies were intimated on behalf of :- Councillor Jim Lynch Rev Margi Campbell Fr. James MacNeil 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest. 3. MINUTES OF MEETING (a) Minutes of Oban Common Good Fund - 30 March 2023 The minutes of the Oban Common Good Fund held on 30 March 2023 were approved as a correct record. Arising from item 5 (Income Expenditure Report) the Governance Officer confirmed the Footprint Alba grant had been paid in full and advised the Trustees of the circumstances behind the unclaimed grant awarded to Oban Ganavan Heritage Trust (OGHT) despite the project having been completed. The Trustees invited the Governance Officer to make enquiries to establish that the expenditure had been incurred by an individual member of the group, noting receipts for the project within the scope of the award had been submitted, and that providing that a firm link can be confirmed, Trustees delegated the decision as to whether to release payment directly to the individual member of the OGHT to the Governance Officer, in consultation with the Chair. The Trustees resolved in terms of Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to exclude the press and public for the following items of business on the grounds that they were likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 6 respectively of Part 1 of Schedule 7A to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. E1 4. DRAFT ANNUAL ACCOUNTS AND SETTING OF ANNUAL BUDGET The Governance Officer advised that following the changes to the Trusts status there remained an outstanding question for the council’s finance team as to how year-end accounts should be presented. As this had not been resolved in time to prepare draft accounts for this meeting, the Governance Officer spoke to the annual summaries Page 25 Agenda Item 3c
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provided by Simmers & Co and questioned whether the Trustees would like to continue the item to a future date before the draft accounts are presented to Council in June. The Governance Officer also referred to the annual summaries which had been prepared by Simmers & Co and invited the Trustees to set their annual grant budget for financial year 2023/24. Decision The Trustees agreed:- 1) That the draft accounts should go straight to the Council meeting in June; 2) That Simmers & Co be invited to a future meeting to present the audited annual accounts; and 3) To set a grant budget of £50,000 for financial year 2023/24. (Ref: Reports on annual cash balance and accruals balance by Simmers & Co, submitted) E1 5. END OF PROJECT MONITORING (a) Argyllshire Gathering Trust The Trustees were invited to consider the End of Project Monitoring Form from the Argyllshire Gathering Trust. Decision The Trustees noted the end of project report. (Ref: End of Project Monitoring Form, submitted) (b) Oban Celtic Shinty Club The Trustees were invited to consider the End of Project Monitoring Form from the Oban Celtic Shinty Club. Decision The Trustees noted the end of project report. (Ref: End of Project Monitoring Form, submitted) (c) Oban Sailing Club The Trustees were invited to consider the End of Project Monitoring Form from the Oban Sailing Club and the Governance Officer read out an expression of support received from UHI Wind and Wave Club. Decision The Trustees noted the end of project report. Page 26
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(Ref: End of Project Monitoring Form, submitted) (d) Hebridean Pursuits The Trustees were invited to consider the End of Project Monitoring Form from Hebridean Pursuits. Decision The Trustees noted the end of project report. (Ref: End of Project Monitoring Form, submitted) E1 6. NEW APPLICATIONS (a) Adventure Oban - Oban Wild Life The Trustees considered the application submitted by Adventure Oban/Oban Wild Life. Decision: It was unanimously agreed to award the amount of £755.39. (Reference: application submitted by Adventure Oban/Oban Wild Life) (b) Argyllshire Gathering Trust The Trustees considered the application submitted by the Argyllshire Gathering Trust. Decision: After careful consideration it was unanimously agreed to refuse the application as the Trustees agreed it was not consistent with their criteria. (Reference: application submitted by the Argyllshire Gathering Trust) (c) Developing Potential The Trustees considered the application submitted by Developing Potential. Decision: It was unanimously agreed to award £1000 to this project. (Reference: application submitted by Developing Potential) (d) Hebridean Pursuits Outdoor Learning The Trustees considered the application submitted by Hebridean Pursuits. Decision: Page 27
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After careful consideration it was unanimously agreed to refuse the application as the Trustees agreed it was not consistent with their criteria.. (Reference: application submitted by Hebridean Pursuits) (e) Oban Lifesavers Group The Trustees considered the application submitted by Oban Life Savers Club. Decision: It was agreed to make an in principle award of £2120 towards the overall projects cost, with the final decision on whether to release the award delegated to the Governance Officer, in consultation with the Chair, following their consideration of the club’s latest approved accounts. (Reference: application submitted by Oban Life Savers Club) E1 7. CONTINUED APPLICATION (a) Soroba Community Enterprise The Trustees considered the application from Soroba Community Enterprise that had been continued from their March meeting and heard from Mrs Malloy, who spoke on behalf of the Group, regarding project. After responding to questions from Trustees, Mrs Malloy left the meeting. Decision The Trustees unanimously agreed to fund the project up to the value of £1000. (Reference: application submitted by Soroba Community Enterprise) 8. DATE OF NEXT MEETING It was agreed that the next Oban Common Good Fund would take place on Monday 21 August 2023, at 2pm, by MS Teams. Page 28
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MINUTES of MEETING of OBAN COMMON GOOD FUND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on MONDAY, 21 AUGUST 2023 Present: Councillor Andrew Kain (Chair) Councillor Kieron Green Councillor Luna Martin Attending: Melissa Stewart, Governance Officer Marri Malloy, Observer Rev Margi Campbell, Observer 1. APOLOGIES Apologies were intimated by Councillor Jim Lynch and Fr. James MacNeil. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Councillor Luna Martin declared a non-financial interest Item 6f of these minutes, as she is on the Board of Atlantis Leisure. Councillor Martin left the meeting during consideration of the application and did not participate in the decision making. The Trustees noted that given the Declaration of Interest made by Councillor Martin the meeting would not be quorate in respect of item 6f of these minutes, and resolved that for this item only they would agree a temporary delegation to the Governance Officer. The decision recorded is on that basis 3. MINUTES OF MEETING (a) Minutes of Oban Common Good Fund - 22 May 2023 The minutes of the Oban Common Good Fund held on 22 May 2023 were approved as a correct record. The Council resolved in terms of Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to exclude the press and public for the following items of business on the grounds that it was likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 6 respectively of Part 1 of Schedule 7A to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. E1 4. INCOME AND EXPENDITURE A financial statement detailing the current position of investment transaction for the period was considered and the Governance Officer advised the Trustees of a request from the Oban War Memorial Centenary Group regarding release of the funding awarded to them on 30th March 2023. Decision 1. The Trustees noted the income and expenditure report and Page 29 Agenda Item 3d
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2. The Trustees agreed that the award made to the Oban War Memorial Centenary Group would be paid to the parent body, Oban Communities Trust. (Ref: Report by Simmers & Co for period ending 31 July 2023, submitted) E1 5. END OF PROJECT MONITORING (a) Oban High School New York Experience The Trustees were invited to consider the End of Project Monitoring from Oban High School New York Experience. Decision The Trustees noted the end of project form. (Ref: End of Project Monitoring Form, submitted) E1 6. NEW APPLICATIONS It was agreed that as Councillor Martin had declared an interest in the Atlantis Leisure application, that the running order of the Agenda would be amended to allow Councillor Martin to leave the meeting whilst these items were discussed and the minute would reflect the order items were discussed. (a) Oban FM The applicants withdrew their application prior to meeting, as funding had been secured elsewhere. Therefore, the application was not discussed or considered. Decision No decision required. (b) Kilmelford Parish Church The Trustees considered the application from Kilmelford Parish Church. Decision After careful consideration the Trustees agreed to reject the application as it did not meet the application criteria. (Ref: Application from Kilmelford Parish Church, submitted) (c) Oban Phoenix Cinema The Trustees considered the application from Oban Phoenix Cinema. Page 30
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Decision It was agreed to award the sum of £549, on the basis that the End of Project Monitoring Form was submitted from their award granted in 2018. (Ref: Application from Oban Phoenix Cinema, submitted) (d) Oban Pride The Trustees considered the application from Oban Pride. Decision It was agreed to award £1200 towards capital expenditure items for the new reading area and the multi-sensory equipment/ear defenders. (Ref: Application from Oban Pride, submitted) (e) Oban Winter Festival The Trustees considered an application from Oban Winter Festival. Decision After careful consideration it was agreed to award a donation of £1000. (Ref: Application from Oban Winter Festival, submitted) Councillor Luna Martin left the meeting. (f) Atlantis Leisure The Trustees considered the application from Atlantis Leisure. Decision In noting that there was a funding bid yet to be determined, it was unanimously agreed that the Oban Common Good Fund would underwrite any shortfall in funding up to the maximum amount of £9616. (Ref: Application from Atlantis Leisure, submitted) 7. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The Trustees agreed to hold their next meeting on Monday 13th November 2023 at 2.00pm by TEAMS. Page 31
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1 ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES 13 SEPTEMBER 2023 AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT – FQ1 2023/24 1.0 BACKGROUND 1.1 This paper presents the Area Performance Report for Financial Quarter 1 2023/24 (April to June 2023) and illustrates the agreed performance measures. 1.2 The features of the Performance Report are as follows:- Indicators are grouped by Corporate Outcome. The data table for each indicator is coded to identify the level of reporting. o Area level measures are blue o Council level measures are grey o COI measures are white Each indicator details the o Target, Actual and Performance status (Green / Red / No Target) for the current and three previous financial quarters. o Commentary for the current financial quarter only. o Narrative explaining the performance trend e.g. This indicator is above Target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. o Where appropriate a Performance Trend Line has been added. o The name of the Responsible Officer. o Where possible performance is presented at both Area and Council level. 1.3 The commentary for each indicator helps ‘Tell Our Story’ and enables Elected Members to put the performance data into perspective and understand if an issue is local in nature or should be escalated up to a Strategic Committee. 1.4 To improve the response to performance queries, it is requested that either the Responsible Named Officer or Sonya Thomas are contacted once the Quarterly Performance Report is received with any queries. This should enable some queries being resolved or clarified prior to the Area Committee meeting, and therefore being carried forward as Actions at a subsequent meeting. 1.5 As part of our improvements to performance reporting and making best use of the digital technology available to us, officers have developed new, online scorecards for members to view performance data. These were well received by members at a recent seminar and will be made available, as requested, for the December Area Committees, with training provided in advance. Page 33 Agenda Item 5
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2 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 It is recommended that the Area Committee – a) Notes and considers the performance and supporting commentary as presented. b) Upon receipt of the Quarterly Performance Report the Area Committee contact either the Responsible Named Officer or Sonya Thomas with any queries. c) Note that work is ongoing and to respond to Sonya Thomas with requests or comments regarding the layout and format of the Performance Report. 3.0 IMPLICATIONS 3.1 Policy All of the indicators in this report are based on agreed Council policy. 3.2 Financial All indicators with financial implications are actively managed through agreed budget monitoring processes. 3.3 Legal All appropriate legal implications are complied with. 3.4 HR All HR implications are actively managed through agreed Wellbeing and Management monitoring processes. 3.5 Fairer Scotland Duty See below. 3.5.1 Equalities All activities comply with Equal Opportunities/Fairer Scotland Duty policies and obligations. 3.5.2 Socio-economic Duty All activities comply with the council’s socio- economic duty. 3.5.3 Islands Duty All activities comply with the council’s islands duty. 3.6 Climate Change The Council is committed to working towards net zero. 3.7 Risk Without this information Elected Members are less informed of activities within their area. 3.8 Customer Service All activities with customer feedback or insight are rigorously monitored for improvement. Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services Jane Fowler Head of Customer Support Services 23 August 2023 For further information, please contact: Sonya Thomas Organisation Development Officer - Performance and Improvement Page 34
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3 Customer Support Services 01546 604454 Appendix 1: FQ1 2023/24 OLI Performance Report Page 35
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Appendix 1 Page 1 Performance Reporting Performance Reporting .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1 All Areas .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives ............................................................................................................................ 5 COI – Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund ................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives ............................................................................................................................ 6 COI – Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention ...................... 6 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................... 7 Number of parking penalty notices issued – Oban, Lorn and the Isles......................................................................................................................................... 7 Number of parking penalty notices issued – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................................................... 7 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................... 8 Car parking income to date – Oban, Lorn and the Isles................................................................................................................................................................. 8 Car parking income to date – Argyll and Bute ............................................................................................................................................................................. 10 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................. 11 Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Oban, Lorn and the Isles ....................................................................................................................................... 11 Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Argyll and Bute ...................................................................................................................................................... 11 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start ................................................................................................................... 12 COI – Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional tracking and monitoring plans in place .... 12 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start ................................................................................................................... 13 COI – Provide quality meals with cost margins to all pupils ....................................................................................................................................................... 13 Corporate Outcome No.4 – Education, skills and training maximises opportunities for all .......................................................................................................... 14 Maximise the percentage of 16-19 years olds participating in education, training or employment – Oban, Lorn and the Isles ............................................ 14 Maintain the percentage of 16-19 years olds in Argyll and Bute participating in education, training or employment services – Argyll and Bute ................ 14 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 16 Page 36
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Appendix 1 Page 2 Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Oban, Lorn and the Isles ......................................................................................... 16 Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Argyll and Bute ........................................................................................................ 16 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 18 Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Oban, Lorn and the Isles .................................................................. 18 Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Argyll and Bute ................................................................................ 18 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 20 Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Oban, Lorn and the Isles ............................................................................. 20 Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Argyll and Bute ........................................................................................... 21 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 22 COI – The number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period .................................................................................. 22 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 23 COI – Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the awards of contracts via the procurement portal .................................................... 23 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 24 COI – Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally ........................................................................... 24 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 25 Street lighting – percentage of faults repaired within 10 days – Oban, Lorn and the Isles ....................................................................................................... 25 The percentage of street lighting faults are completed within 10 working days – Argyll and Bute .......................................................................................... 25 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 27 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Lorn ................................................................................................................................................. 27 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Mull ................................................................................................................................................. 27 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Argyll and Bute ............................................................................................................................... 28 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 29 COI – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ................................................................................................................................................ 29 Renewi (formerly Shanks) – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ........................................................................................................... 29 Islands – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered .......................................................................................................................................... 30 Page 37
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Appendix 1 Page 3 H&L – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ............................................................................................................................................... 31 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 32 COI – The number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill ................................................................................................................................................................. 32 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 33 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Lorn ......................................................................................................................................... 33 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Mull ......................................................................................................................................... 33 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................... 34 Making It Happen.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 35 Teacher sickness absence – Oban, Lorn and the Isles ................................................................................................................................................................. 35 Teacher sickness absence – Argyll and Bute ................................................................................................................................................................................ 35 Making It Happen.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 36 LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Oban, Lorn and the Isles ........................................................................................................................................ 36 LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................................................... 36 Making It Happen.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 37 COI – Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts ....................................................................................................................................... 37 Page 38
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Appendix 1 Page 4 All Areas FQ1 2023/24 Overall Performance Summary The information presented is a summary of the agreed measures. Unless stated otherwise, performance is presented at both Area and Council-wide levels. The measures show the performance against target for the current and previous three reporting periods with an explanation of performance trend. The data table for each indicator is colour coded to identify the level of reporting: Area level measures are blue. Council level measures are grey. Corporate Outcome Indicators (COIs) are white. Where appropriate a Trend Line has been added to illustrate movement in ‘Actual’ over the reporting period. Page 39
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Appendix 1 Page 5 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives COI – Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2022/23 95.3% 87.5% Red FQ2 2022/23 95.3% 115.1% Green FQ3 2022/23 95.3% 129.2% Green FQ4 2022/23 95.3% 144.0% Green FQ1 2023/24 95.3% 112.9% Green Performance in FQ1 has exceeded the target and actual has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment From 1 April 2023 to 30 June 2023 our Scottish Welfare Fund (SWF) spend is £129,456 which is £14,886 higher than our profiled quarterly amount. The total allocation for SWF this financial year is £458,284. Applications have remained consistent during this first quarter and we are carefully monitoring application numbers to decide whether priority levels require to be changed. Responsible person: Fergus Walker Page 40
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Appendix 1 Page 6 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives COI – Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ2 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ3 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ4 2022/23 100% 95% Red FQ1 2023/24 100% 100% Green This indicator for FQ1 has met the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment 20 questionnaires were issued; 16 questionnaires returned but 2 did not answer this question. 14 that expressed an opinion agreed that they were satisfied. Responsible person: Lee Roberts Page 41
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Appendix 1 Page 7 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Number of parking penalty notices issued – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period Fq1 2022/23 No target 322 No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 240 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 153 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 391 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 496 No target The indicator for FQ1 shows the number of parking penalty notices has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Issues with electronic on-street permits and software upgrade hampering enforcement duties. OLI cash collection duties requiring assistance from other areas. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Number of parking penalty notices issued – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 2,043 No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 2,124 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 1,343 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 1,332 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 1,816 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of parking penalty notices has increased significantly since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment H&L currently recruiting one warden and requiring assistance from other areas. OLI requiring assistance from other areas for cash collection duties. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Page 42
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Appendix 1 Page 8 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Car parking income to date – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Performance is presented cumulatively for both Area and Council-wide levels. For individual car parks, the income is presented on a quarterly basis. Reporting Period Target (Cumulative) Actual (Cumulative) Status FQ1 2022/23 £170,832 £84,992 Red FQ2 2022/23 £426,247 £286,288 Red FQ3 2022/23 £554,026 £423,730 Red FQ4 2022/23 £677,416 £493,218 Red FQ1 2023/24 £165,702 £151,185 Red This indicator for FQ1 shows the cumulative amount of income collected is lower than the cumulative target. There is no performance trend as this data is cumulative. FQ1 Comment Anecdotally, Oban appears to be busy. An exercise regarding the number of vehicles coming into Argyll and Bute was carried out, and there was a drop in vehicles coming into the area over the COVID years and we are now seeing a return to the average, with year 2022/23 less than a 10% drop from the average non-COVID years. Oban has experienced works such as the re-lining of the trunk road and surrounding areas with Transport Scotland which previously we have been unable to enforce on-street parking. This drop off in on-street parking has also seen an increase in off street parking nearby with Corran Halls 1+2 as well as the North Pier being busier. Ascertaining the reason for a shortfall in income can be difficult however it can also be affected by such things as weather, events and community. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Actual Quarterly Income collected in Oban, Lorn and Isles during FQ4 and FQ1. Car Park Location FQ4 Actual FQ1 Actual Corran No.1, Oban £1,284 £13,528 North Pier, Oban £7,343 £22,705 Corran No.2, Oban £1,113 £8,909 Longsdale, Oban £1,344 £4,875 Page 43
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Appendix 1 Page 9 Car Park Location FQ4 Actual FQ1 Actual Non-trunk, Oban £26,160 £39,596 Lochavullin, Oban £3,273 £9,970 Ganavan, Oban £1,895 £2,518 Trunk, Oban £10,028 £4,300 Albany Street, Oban £1,713 £5,597 Oban £4,790 £3,643 Tweedale Street, Oban £6,112 £20,100 Market Street, Oban £826 £1,762 Esplanade, Oban £214 £574 Craignure, Mull £255 £429 Fionnphort, Mull £3,137 £12,680 OLI (parking permits) £0 £0 Total £69,488 £151,186 Page 44
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Appendix 1 Page 10 Car parking income to date – Argyll and Bute Performance is presented cumulatively for both Area and Council-wide levels. Reporting Period Target (Cumulative) Actual (Cumulative) Status FQ1 2022/23 £250,661 £165,678 Red FQ2 2022/23 £625,430 £491,453 Red FQ3 2022/23 £812,919 £709,585 Red FQ4 2022/23 £993,968 £817,788 Red FQ1 2023/24 £234,056 £253,705 Green This indicator for FQ1 shows the cumulative amount of income collected has exceeded the cumulative target. There is no performance trend as this data is cumulative. FQ1 Comment Overall parking income is performing well – the team have had a vacancy since March 2023. An offer of employment has been made, which will see the team return to full staffing. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Page 45
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Appendix 1 Page 11 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 9 No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 4 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 6 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 18 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 4 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of dog fouling complaints has decreased significantly since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment There were only 4 dog fouling complaints received this quarter for the OLI area and these were all in Oban, there were no complaints received for Mull. This is very good and down on last quarter's figure. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 202/23 No target 61 No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 45 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 47 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 77 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 60 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of dog fouling complaints has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment The total number of dog fouling complaints is down this quarter to 60, B&C 13, H&L 11, MAKI 32 and OLI 4. The Warden Service will continue to patrol and monitor this in an effort to reduce the numbers further. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 46
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Appendix 1 Page 12 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start COI – Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional tracking and monitoring plans in place This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ2 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ3 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ4 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ1 2023/24 100% 100% Green This indicator for FQ1 has met the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment There is individual tracking and monitoring in place on SEEMIS in all schools for care experienced children and young people. In addition to this, the Virtual Head Teacher for Care Experienced Children and Young People (CECYP) undertakes additional analysis of the data held. The way in which attendance data is monitored has been refined and there is greater scrutiny around absence and targeted interventions to support school attendance. An updated system to track attainment data specifically for CECYP is currently being developed and will ensure breadth and depth of data is collected for each learner throughout their educational journey. This long term intended impact is to identify and address themes, ensuring early and targeted interventions across a range of indicators. Data collated continues to inform how our Care Experienced Education Team of Health and Wellbeing Liaison Officers and Lead Additional Support Needs Assistants are deployed to offer support for the CECYP and, as appropriate, their family. Responsible person: Louise Chisholm Page 47
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Appendix 1 Page 13 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start COI – Provide quality meals with cost margins to all pupils This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2022/23 +/-5.00% 3.77% Green FQ2 2022/23 +/-5.00% 0.98% Green FQ3 2022/23 +/-5.00% 6.09% Red FQ4 2022/23 +/-5.00% -2.56% Green FQ1 2023/24 +/-5.00% 5.00% Green This indicator for FQ1 is within the +/-5.00% target variance and performance has improved since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment The total percentage variance for all schools is 5.00%. This is just within the target range. A new cashless catering system is currently being implemented in schools and will allow for more efficient reporting of figures. The system was rolled out in FQ1 and may have resulted in some reporting issues. We will continue to monitor any schools that had a food cost percentage out with the 5% variance target. B&C 10.07% H&L 1.07% MAKI 2.61% OLI 7.16% Responsible person: Jayne Jones Page 48
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Appendix 1 Page 14 Corporate Outcome No.4 – Education, skills and training maximises opportunities for all Maximise the percentage of 16-19 years olds participating in education, training or employment – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 94.00% 95.95% Green FQ2 2022/23 94.00% 95.48% Green FQ3 2022/23 94.00% 95.34% Green FQ4 2022/23 94.00% 95.60% Green FQ1 2023/24 94.00% 95.45% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above target however performance has decreased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment As of 29 June 2023, the participation figure for 16-19 year-olds in Oban, Lorn and the Isles was 860 young people, which equates to 95.45%. This is 1.55% above the 2021/22 annual Argyll and Bute Participation figure of 93.9%. The 2022/23 Annual Participation Measure for Argyll and Bute will be released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2023. Responsible person: Simon Easton Maintain the percentage of 16-19 years olds in Argyll and Bute participating in education, training or employment services – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 94.00% 94.00% Green FQ2 2022/23 94.00% 93.90% Red FQ3 2022/23 94.00% 93.90% Red FQ4 2022/23 94.00% 93.62% Red FQ1 2023/24 94.00% 93.75% Red This indicator for FQ1 is slightly below target however performance has increased slightly since the last reporting period. Page 49
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Appendix 1 Page 15 FQ1 Comment As of 29 June 2023, the participation figure for 16-19 year olds across Argyll and Bute was 3,435 young people, which equates to 93.75%. This is 0.15% below the 2021/22 annual Argyll and Bute Participation figure of 93.9%. The 2022/23 Annual Participation Measure for Argyll and Bute will be released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2023. Responsible person: Simon Easton Page 50
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Appendix 1 Page 16 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2022/23 18 18 Green FQ2 2022/23 38 38 Green FQ3 2022/23 36 36 Green FQ4 2022/23 27 27 Green FQ1 2023/24 26 26 Green This indicator for FQ1 show the number of completions has met the target for the reporting period. FQ1 Comment In FQ1 there were 26 completions achieved through Link/C~urb for social rent at the Dunbeg Phase 3 development. 20 of these are general needs, 3 are amenity and 3 are specific need housing. 20 General Needs (made up of 4 x 2 bed Terraced Houses, 4 x 3 bed Terraced Houses, 1 x 4 bed Terraced House, 4 x 1 bed Flats & 7 x 2 bed Flats). 3 Wheelchair Accessible (2 x 1 bed Flats). 3 Amenity (2 x 1 bed Flats, 1 x 2 bed Flat). Responsible person: Kelly Ferns Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2022/23 36 36 Green FQ2 2022/23 48 48 Green FQ3 2022/23 37 37 Green FQ4 2022/23 67 67 Green FQ1 2023/24 26 26 Green This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of completions has met the target for the reporting period. FQ1 Comment B&C: No units scheduled for completion in FQ1. H&L: No units scheduled for completion in FQ1. Page 51
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Appendix 1 Page 17 MAKI: No units scheduled for completion in FQ1. OLI: 26 completions in FQ1 achieved through Link/C~urb for social rent at the Dunbeg Phase 3 development. 20 of these are general needs, 3 are amenity and 3 are specific need housing. 20 General Needs (made up of 4 x 2 bed Terraced Houses, 4 x 3 bed Terraced Houses, 1 x 4 bed Terrace House, 4 x 1 bed Flats & 7 x 2 bed Flats). 3 Wheelchair Accessible (2 x 1 bed Flats). 3 Amenity (2 x 1 bed Flats, 1 x 2 bed Flat). Responsible person: Kelly Ferns Page 52
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Appendix 1 Page 18 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 75.0% 75.0% Green FQ2 2022/23 75.0% 86.2% Green FQ3 2022/23 75.0% 76.9% Green FQ4 2022/23 75.0% 78.3% Green FQ1 2023/24 75.0% 68.8% Red This indicator for FQ1 is below target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Performance across Development Management continues to be impacted by an extended period of operating with key staff vacancies and a backlog of casework from the pandemic. The introduction of National Planning Framework 4 in February 2023 by The Scottish Government and the subsequent progression of the Council's proposed Local Development Plan 2 in June 2023 has further impacted on productivity and required a significant volume of casework to be re-assessed against the emerging policy background. During this reporting period available resource has been prioritised towards the resolution of statutory casework - the effect of this will be a detrimental impact on non-statutory casework including an extended time period to respond to pre-application enquiries. Responsible person: Peter Bain Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 75.0% 60.5 Red FQ2 2022/23 75.0% 64.7% Red FQ3 2022/23 75.0% 52.5% Red FQ4 2022/23 75.0% 55.4% Red FQ1 2023/24 75.0% 47.5% Red This indicator for FQ1 is below target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Page 53
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Appendix 1 Page 19 FQ1 Comment Performance across Development Management continues to be impacted by an extended period of operating with key staff vacancies and a backlog of casework from the pandemic. The introduction of National Planning Framework 4 in February 2023 by The Scottish Government and the subsequent progression of the Council's proposed Local Development Plan 2 in June 2023 has further impacted on productivity and required a significant volume of casework to be re-assessed against the emerging policy background. During this reporting period available resource has been prioritised towards the resolution of statutory casework - the effect of this will be a detrimental impact on non-statutory casework including an extended time period to respond to pre-application enquiries. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 54
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Appendix 1 Page 20 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 8.0 weeks 9.4 weeks Red FQ2 2022/23 8.0 weeks 8.5 weeks Red FQ3 2022/23 8.0 weeks 7.7 weeks Green FQ4 2022/23 8.0 weeks 9.4 weeks Red FQ1 2023/24 8.0 weeks 10.7 weeks Red This indicator for FQ1 has not met the target and performance has decreased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment This measure only relates to planning applications received for alterations to existing premises. Performance across Development Management continues to be impacted by an extended period of operating with key staff vacancies and a backlog of casework from the pandemic. The introduction of National Planning Framework 4 in February 2023 by The Scottish Government and the subsequent progression of the Council's proposed Local Development Plan 2 in June 2023 has further impacted on productivity and required a significant volume of casework to be re-assessed against the emerging policy background. During this reporting period, available resource has been prioritised towards the resolution of statutory casework - in particular the progression and determination of older cases. The determination of a higher-than-normal volume of legacy cases has a significant impact on "average time taken" performance measures, as a relatively small number of cases can readily skew the outcome. This is evidenced in that the performance time to determine "All Local Applications" would be 25.7 weeks, however five of those weeks is attributable to six legacy applications alone. Of the Local Applications determined in FQ1, 90% of applications determined were less than one year old and were determined in an average time period of 18 weeks. It is further commented that 60% of those applications were less than 6 months old at the time of determining and were determined in an average time period of 11.6 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 55
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Appendix 1 Page 21 Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 8.0 weeks 12.4 weeks Red FQ2 2022/23 8.0 weeks 13.1 weeks Red FQ3 2022/23 8.0 weeks 12.0 weeks Red FQ4 2022/23 8.0 weeks 17.3 weeks Red FQ1 2023/24 8.0 weeks 21.6 weeks Red This indicator for FQ1 has not met the target and performance and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment This measure only relates to planning applications received for alterations to existing premises. Performance across Development Management continues to be impacted by an extended period of operating with key staff vacancies and a backlog of casework from the pandemic. The introduction of National Planning Framework 4 in February 2023 by The Scottish Government and the subsequent progression of the Council's proposed Local Development Plan 2 in June 2023 has further impacted on productivity and required a significant volume of casework to be re-assessed against the emerging policy background. During this reporting period, available resource has been prioritised towards the resolution of statutory casework - in particular the progression and determination of older cases. The determination of a higher-than-normal volume of legacy cases has a significant impact on "average time taken" performance measures, as a relatively small number of cases can readily skew the outcome. This is evidenced in that the performance time to determine "All Local Applications" would be 25.7 weeks, however five of those weeks is attributable to six legacy applications alone. Of the Local Applications determined in FQ1, 90% of applications determined were less than one year old and were determined in an average time period of 18 weeks. It is further commented that 60% of those applications were less than 6 months old at the time of determining and were determined in an average time period of 11.6 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 56
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Appendix 1 Page 22 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – The number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 32 No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 28 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 41 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 30 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 32 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of applicants has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment During FQ1, the housing service provided temporary accommodation for 32 new homeless households. B&C 13 H&L 3 MAKI 1 OLI 15 Responsible Person: Morven Macintyre Page 57
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Appendix 1 Page 23 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the awards of contracts via the procurement portal This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 20.0% 13.2% Red FQ2 2022/23 20.0% 22.2% Green FQ3 2022/23 20.0% 19.4% Red FQ4 2022/23 20.0% 22.5% Green FQ1 2023/24 20.0% 10.8% Red This indicator for FQ1 is below target and performance has decreased significantly since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Of the 5 contracts receiving local bids, 2 of which were Framework awards with multiple successful suppliers, 4 local suppliers were successful with an estimated contract value of £500k. The Procurement, Commercial and Contract Management Team (PCCMT) continue to support local suppliers by providing useful information on the Council’s website i.e. pre-recorded webinars on how to bid for Council contracts, hints and tips for tendering, as well as our current contract plan. Details of upcoming Supplier Development events and our Category Officer’s contact details are also provided, all of which enable local suppliers to be able to bid for our contracts. Responsible person: Anne MacColl-Smith Page 58
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Appendix 1 Page 24 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2022/23 No target - No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 30 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target - No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 43 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target - No target This indicator is reported in FQ2 and FQ4. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of community benefits has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Reported on a six monthly basis. Next report available October 2023. Responsible person: Anne MacColl-Smith Page 59
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Appendix 1 Page 25 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Street lighting – percentage of faults repaired within 10 days – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 75% 38% Red FQ2 2022/23 75% 39% Red FQ3 2022/23 75% 25% Red FQ4 2022/23 75% 43% Red FQ1 2023/24 75% 28% Red This indicator for FQ1 is below target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment The percentage of jobs completed on time shows 13 jobs out of 46 in total, giving a performance of 28%. The Service did have some travel difficulties in scheduling works on Mull. Responsible person: Tom Murphy The percentage of street lighting faults are completed within 10 working days – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 75% 29% Red FQ2 2022/23 75% 48% Red FQ3 2022/23 75% 30% Red FQ4 2022/23 75% 32% Red FQ1 2023/24 75% 37% Red This indicator for FQ1 is below target however performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment The total number of street lighting jobs completed in FQ1 was 175. Of the total completed within the quarter, 64 were completed within the 10 day indicator giving an overall performance of 37%. We still have a number of faults reported as dark lamps that turn out to be more serious cable or section faults requiring power company/supply repairs. More jobs were completed and closed off than new ones raised, within the period, slightly reducing the overall backlog in repairs. Page 60
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Appendix 1 Page 26 There have been some resourcing issues due to sickness absence and annual leave and the commencement of the Capital Improvement Schemes in Helensburgh and Bute. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 61
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Appendix 1 Page 27 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Lorn Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 14 No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 12 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 8 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 18 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 8 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of waste collection complaints has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment There were only 8 waste collection complaints received for the Oban area, again a very good level of service. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Mull Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 0 No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 0 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 0 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 0 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 0 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of waste collection complaints has remained the same as the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment There were no waste collection complaints received for the Isle of Mull, this is an excellent level of service. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 62
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Appendix 1 Page 28 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 58 No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 65 No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 35 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 53 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 67 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of waste collection complaints has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment There were 67 waste collection complaints received this quarter, given the number of bins serviced, domestic, glass and food, this is a very good level of service. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 63
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Appendix 1 Page 29 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 45.0% 52.1% Green FQ2 2022/23 45.0% 50.5% Green FQ3 2022/23 45.0% 56.7% Green FQ4 2022/23 45.0% 52.0% Green FQ1 2023/24 45.0% 47.6% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment 47.6% recycling, composting and recovery (37.4% recycling/composting plus 10.2% recovery). Overall rate above target although recovery less than same quarter in previous year. This is mainly because mixed general waste which goes to Barr Environmental (mainly from Helensburgh and Lomond area) is now all landfilled. This is due to Barr's decision to cease operation of their mixed waste treatment plant following The Scottish Government introduction of a Landfill Tax Abatement Order from July 2022. Responsible person: John Blake Renewi (formerly Shanks) – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 54.4% No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 58.1% No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 67.4% No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 61.9% No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 53.0% No target Page 64
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Appendix 1 Page 30 This indicator for FQ1 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment 53.0% recycling, composting and recovery (35.8% recycling/composting plus 17.2% recovery). Renewi recycling and recovery rates now back to more normal levels as had been higher in 2022/23 year mainly due to significant wood and green garden waste tonnages being sent for recycling/composting plus and energy from waste trial increased recovery tonnages. Responsible person: John Blake Islands – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 33.3% No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 34.7% No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 43.5% No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 35.9% No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 39.2% No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the percentage of waste recycled has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Recycling and composting rate of 39.2% is an improvement on previous quarter and same quarter in 2022/23. Responsible person: John Blake Page 65
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Appendix 1 Page 31 H&L – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 53.6% No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 41.0% No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 37.5% No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 34.5% No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 40.1% No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the percentage of waste recycled has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Recycling rate higher than previous quarter i.e. FQ4 in 2022/23 mainly due to significant green garden waste tonnage being sent for composting. Recovery rate much lower than same quarter in previous year i.e. FQ1 in 2022/23, mainly due to Barr Environmental no longer operating a mixed general waste treatment plant at their Auchencarroch Landfill Site (near Alexandria) following The Scottish Government introducing a Landfill Tax Abatement Order from July 2022. Responsible person: John Blake Page 66
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Appendix 1 Page 32 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI – The number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 5,850 4,546 Green FQ2 2022/23 5,550 4,947 Green FQ3 2022/23 5,100 3,882 Green FQ4 2022/23 5,000 4,610 Green FQ1 2023/24 5,850 5,075 Green This indicator for FQ1 is below target (lowest is best). FQ1 Comment Tonnes of biodegradable waste to landfill within target, however more was landfilled than in same quarter during previous year. This increase was mainly because all mixed general waste delivered to Barr Environmental in FQ1 this year (from the Helensburgh and Lomond area) was landfilled. This was due to Barr's decision to cease operation of their mixed waste treatment plant following The Scottish Government Landfill Tax Abatement Order (which was introduced from July 2022). The Renewi energy from waste trial has ended, therefore in this quarter there is no extra recovery from the PPP area to offset the recovery reduction from the Helensburgh and Lomond area. Responsible person: John Blake Page 67
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Appendix 1 Page 33 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Lorn (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 73 84 Green FQ2 2022/23 73 86 Green FQ3 2022/23 73 88 Green FQ4 2022/23 73 86 Green FQ1 2023/24 73 87 Green This indicator for FQ1 is above target and performance has increased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Lorn is showing a good level of street cleanliness this quarter with a figure of 87. Responsible person: Tom Murphy LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Mull (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 73 94 Green FQ2 2022/23 73 85 Green FQ3 2022/23 73 88 Green FQ4 2022/23 73 93 Green FQ1 2023/24 73 95 Green This indicator for FQ1 is above target and performance has increased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Another very good level of street cleanliness on the Isle of Islay this quarter with a figure of 95. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 68
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Appendix 1 Page 34 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Argyll and Bute (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 73 85 Green FQ2 2022/23 73 82 Green FQ3 2022/23 73 83 Green FQ4 2022/23 73 83 Green FQ1 2023/24 73 84 Green This indicator for FQ1 is above target and performance has increased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment The overall score for the whole of Argyll and Bute is 84 this quarter, this shows a very good level of street cleanliness and exceeds both the National Standard and Benchmark score. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 69
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Appendix 1 Page 35 Making It Happen Teacher sickness absence – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 1.80 days No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 1.59 days No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 1.52 days No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 2.54 days No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 1.79 days No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Teacher absence has reduced by 1/3 of a day on last quarter and decreased very slightly on the same quarter last year. The top reason for absence is Stress consistent with the same quarter last year. Responsible person: Wendy Brownlie Teacher sickness absence – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 1.79 days No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 1.22 days No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 1.70 days No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 2.48 days No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 2.15 days No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Overall, Teacher absence has decreased by 1/3 of a day on last quarter and increased by 1/3 of a day on the same quarter last year. The top reasons for absence are Stress, Infections and Medical Treatment. Medical Treatment replaces Stomach/Liver/Kidney as no. 3 reason on the same quarter last year. Responsible person: Jennifer Crocket (B&C and MAK) and Wendy Brownlie (H&L and OLI) Page 70
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Appendix 1 Page 36 Making It Happen LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Oban, Lorn and the Isles Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 3.52 days No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 4.07 days No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 4.17 days No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 4.48 days No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 3.63 days No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment LGE absence has decreased by just over 3/4 of a day on the last quarter and is has increased slightly on the same quarter last year. The top reason for absence is Stress which is the same as the same quarter last year. Responsible person: Carolyn Cairns LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 No target 3.57 days No target FQ2 2022/23 No target 3.66 days No target FQ3 2022/23 No target 3.65 days No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 4.04 days No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 3.53 days No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Overall LGE absence has decreased by 1/2 a day on the previous quarter and decreased slightly on the same quarter last year. The top three reasons for absence are Stress, Other Musculoskeletal and Stomach/Liver/Kidney. Stomach/Liver/Kidney replaces Infections which was no. 3 reason this quarter last year. Responsible person: Carolyn Cairns Page 71
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Appendix 1 Page 37 Making It Happen COI – Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2022/23 70.0% 79.4% Green FQ2 2022/23 70.0% 75.4% Green FQ3 2022/23 70.0% 72.5% Green FQ4 2022/23 70.0% 72.2% Green FQ1 2023/24 70.0% 80.7% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment In FQ1 there 38,647 transactions dealt with by Customer Service Agents (19.3%) and 162,111 automated or self-service transactions (80.7%) so the 70.0% target was exceeded. Note: figures are provisional due to implementation of new website and analytics engine. Responsible person: Robert Miller Page 72
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 13 SEPTEMBER 2023 RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 Argyll and Bute Council is both a waste collection and waste disposal authority. 1.2 Waste disposal is dealt with by 3 separate models across the council as follows: Island sites e.g. on Mull and Islay where landfill sites are operated directly by the council; Helensburgh and Lomond area where waste is disposed of at sites outside of Argyll and Bute; A 25 year (2001 – 2026) Waste PPP contract which covers the rest of Argyll and Bute. 1.3 Waste figures for all four administrative areas have been summarised within this report. Due to the way the reporting is carried out, it is not possible to accurately break down the information on an area by area basis for all data. 1.4 National policy decisions, guidance and regulations e.g. relating to the Biodegradable Municipal Waste landfill ban will have a significant impact on future recycling, composting and recovery performance. 1.5 It is recommended that Members note and give consideration to the details as outlined in this report and the national policy drivers that will likely impact over the coming years. Page 73 Agenda Item 6
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 13 SEPTEMBER 2023 RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Argyll and Bute Council is both a waste collection and waste disposal authority. Recycling, composting and recovery (i.e. other landfill diversion) statistics are reported quarterly within the council’s performance system Pyramid which has recently been replaced. Statutory returns to SEPA e.g. licensed site tonnage, landfill tax and waste data flow vary from quarterly to annual. 2.2 This report provides details on the council’s recycling and landfill diversion performance along with national policy, targets and regulations which are likely to impact on future performance. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that Members note and give consideration to the details as outlined in this report and the national policy drivers that will likely impact over the coming years. 4.0 DETAILS 4.1 The council’s waste strategy was approved by the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in September 2019. Whilst this strategy will emerge in line with government guidance, regulation, legislation, and contractual requirements the Strategy is predicated on the model shown below in Figure 1. Page 74
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4.2 Argyll and Bute Council operated a performance management system ‘Pyramid’. Quarterly recycling/composting, recovery and landfill percentages are included – split between the Islands landfill sites, Waste Management PPP and Helensburgh/Lomond areas. These details include: percentage of waste recycled and composted; percentage of waste recovered e.g. other landfill diversion; combined percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered; percentage of waste to landfill; tonnes of biodegradable municipal waste to landfill. Percentages Summary of Landfill, Recycling, Composting and Recovery 2021 and 2022 2021 2022 Argyll & Bute wide % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 49.3% 51.8% % waste recycled and composted 36.2% 37.6% % waste recovered 13.0% 14.2% % waste landfilled 50.7% 48.2% Tonnes of municipal waste to landfill 29,875 28,265 Waste PPP % of waste recycled, composted and 50.6% 57.6% Page 75
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recovered % waste recycled and composted 33.0% 36.3% % waste recovered 17.6% 21.3% % waste landfilled 49.4% 42.4% Helensburgh & Lomond % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 50.8% 44.7% % waste recycled and composted 42,7% 40.6% % waste recovered 8.1% 4.2% % waste landfilled 49.2% 55.3% Islands % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 36.3% 37.3% % waste recycled and composted 34.8% 36.7% % waste recovered 1.5% 0.6% % waste landfilled 63.7% 62.7% 4.3 Some points to note are as follows: There was an overall improvement in recycling performance in 2022 which was mainly due to an increase in green garden waste and wood waste tonnages sent by Renewi from the PPP area for onward composting and recycling. There was also an improvement in recovery performance in 2022 mainly due to a trial carried out by Renewi in the PPP area whereby Renewi sent circa 1,500 tonnes of general mixed residual waste (mainly from their Dalinlongart waste facility near Dunoon) to an Energy from Waste (EfW) plant in the central belt. The Renewi energy from waste trial more than off-set the reduction in recovery from the Helensburgh and Lomond area following Barr ceasing operation of their waste treatment plant following The Scottish Government introduction of a Landfill Tax Amendment Order in July 2022. The Barr waste treatment plant was mothballed from July 2022 at their Auchencarroch landfill site near Alexandria. With no recycling or recovery occurring from the mixed residual waste at the Barr site, this had a negative impact on overall recycling and recovery rates from the Helensburgh and Lomond area compared to 2021. Page 76
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The overall combined recycled, composted and recovery rate has increased from 49.3% in 2021 to 51.8% in 2022. This is mainly due to the reasons described in the first two bullet points above. The recovery in the Waste PPP area is carried out by Renewi through residual waste mechanical biological treatment plants based at their waste facilities near Oban, Dunoon and Lochgilphead. In late 2022 Renewi also sent circa 1,500 tonnes of residual waste to an EfW plant in the central belt. Waste sent to EfW is also classed as recovery. The recovery in the Helensburgh and Lomond area was carried out by Barr Environmental at their Auchencarroch waste facility, near Alexandria. As described, Barr stopped operating their mixed residual waste treatment plant following The Scottish Government Landfill Tax Amendment Order which was introduced from July 2022. Since then Barr have landfilled all mixed residual waste although they have future plans to turn the currently mothballed waste treatment plant into a refuse derived fuel (RDF) facility. Such a facility assuming it comes to fruition, would shred and wrap residual waste for subsequent use in an EfW plant. Cardboard is now consistently the most prominent recycling material in the blue recycling bin overtaking paper which was the highest proportion pre pandemic. The increase in cardboard is likely due to more on-line purchasing since the pandemic while newspapers are not as widely purchased now compared to previous years. The overall percentage waste to landfill in 2022 (48.2%) was lower than 2021 (50.7%) mainly due to the EfW trial carried out by Renewi during the winter months of late 2022. The tonnage of municipal waste to landfill in 2022 (i.e. 28,365 tonnes) was less than in 2021 (i.e. 29,875 tonnes).This was mainly due also to the Renewi EfW trial. Recycling and composting is mainly from recycling collections, bring sites and segregated wastes from recycling/civic amenity sites. Recovery is predominantly moisture/process loss and compost like output from mixed waste treatment plants operated by the council’s Waste PPP partner Renewi and Barr Environmental. In addition in 2022, there was circa 1,500 tonnes of recovery from the Renewi EfW trial. SEPA published annual recycling, recovery and landfill data for local authorities focuses mainly on recycling/composting from household waste and less on recovery in line with the waste hierarchy. Landfill Ban 4.4 The Waste (Scotland) Regulations were introduced by the Scottish Government in 2012 and they included a landfill ban of biodegradable waste from 2021. Page 77
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4.5 The landfill ban planned for 2021 was subsequently delayed by The Scottish Government until the end of 2025. This delay was welcomed by the Council and gives more time for alternative solutions and funding to be sought. An update report on the Waste PPP/Landfill Ban is likely to be included in the August 2023 Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee. Deposit Return Scheme 4.6 The Scottish Government in 2019 set out a planned implementation date of April 2021 for a national deposit return scheme (DRS) for drinks containers including PET plastic drinks bottles, drinks cans and glass bottles. During the Covid-19 outbreak the implementation date was delayed by The Scottish Government until July 2022 and then subsequently until August 2023.Circularity Scotland were subsequently appointed by The Scottish Government to administer and operate the scheme throughout Scotland. In June 2023, The Scottish Government decided to abandon the Scotland wide scheme after the UK Government refused to allow glass drinks bottles to be part of the Scheme. Circularity Scotland have subsequently been disbanded. 4.7 A UK wide DRS scheme is expected in October 2025 and may result in an overall increase in recycling including other environmental benefits e.g. current non- recyclers may use the scheme plus there should be less littering of such items. The scheme may however, see a slight reduction in Council recycling performance if plastic drinks bottles and cans are no longer handled by Council recycling collections albeit they should still be recycled in future via the UK wide DRS scheme. Scottish Government Circular Economy Bill 4.8 During the summer of 2023, The Scottish Government published its Circular Economy Bill. Further details on these Scottish Government proposals will be reported at future ED&I Committees as they progress. Some of the main proposals which relate to local authorities recycling are as follows: A Duty of Care on households regarding their waste and recycling with new powers given to local authorities for the issuing of fixed penalties to enforce this; Local Authorities will be required to comply with a statutory code of practice on recycling; The Scottish Government expect to set mandatory recycling targets on Local Authorities from 2030. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 Steady progress was made on recycling and composting performance during 2022. Recovery performance also improved in 2022 mainly due to an EfW trial carried out by Renewi from the PPP area. National Policy drivers such as the ban Page 78
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on biodegradable municipal waste to landfill, the deposit return scheme and the circular economy bill proposals will have significant implications for future recycling, composting and recovery performance. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy National policies and regulations will likely impact on future recycling, composting and recovery performance. The council’s policy is to reduce landfill. 6.2 Financial The 2025 ban on biodegradable waste to landfill will have financial implications. An update report will be included in the August 2023 Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee. 6.3 Legal The landfill ban (delayed until 31st December 2025) is a legal requirement under the Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012. Other legal requirements may likely result following The Scottish Government Circular Economy Bill proposals. 6.4 HR None 6.5 Equalities None 6.6 Risk Risks to the council on the landfill ban and any other future statutory requirements are mainly financial. A future UK wide deposit scheme for plastic drinks containers and cans will hopefully have an overall environmental benefit, although it may impact on council recycling rates. 6.7 Customer Services None at present. Executive Director with Responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Climate Change and Environment: Councillor Ross Moreland For further information contact: Jim Smith: Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services John Blake: Fleet, Waste & Transport Manager Page 79
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE 13 SEPTEMBER 2023 SERVICES ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 A Roads and Infrastructure standing report was a fixture on Area Committee agendas throughout the life of the last Council. In the first two rounds of Area Committee meetings in the new Council feedback was sought on the value of these updates, and their format and frequency. Generally Members felt having a standard item was beneficial and it was acknowledged that the Roads and Infrastructure weekly briefings issued to all members each Friday afternoon provide for the main sources of live information on current activities. On top of these briefings there is a bank of resources on the new Member Zone system which include the weekly briefings, subject specific briefings, ad hoc short briefings on issues, relevant previous committee reports, operational service procedures, legislation and Council policies. 1.2 In the last Council the purpose of these reports was to provide an update on service activities but since weekly briefings were introduced around 18 months ago (at the time of writing this report we are on to briefing Edition 97) these have largely superseded the original stated purpose of these reports. 1.3 On the basis of the above this new format has been agreed through the December 2022 round of area committees for this standing item. This format removes duplication for Officers and rather links to existing published information, with additional updates only in the body of the reports if these are specifically requested/noted from previous meetings. The report remains as a standing item and continues to provide the opportunity for Officer engagement at the committee meetings. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Area Committee: 2.1 Note and consider the contents of this report. Page 81 Agenda Item 7
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3.0 DETAIL 3.1 Roads and Infrastructure Services provides Members with weekly briefings on topical service activities which are all available here. 3.2 As part of the resources on the new Member Zone system there are various key documents available in an online library here. 4.0 CONCLUSION 4.1 This report provides links to existing published information on service activities and provides for the opportunity for Officer attendance and engagement at committee meetings. 5.0 IMPLICATIONS 5.1 Policy – Roads and Infrastructure work to a number of policies across the range of service areas 5.2 Financial – revenue and capital budgets are in place to deliver projects and cyclic work 5.3 Legal – none known 5.4 HR – none known 5.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 5.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics – where appropriate EqSEIAs will be carried out to identify any implications 5.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – where appropriate EqSEIAs will be carried out to identify any implications 5.5.3 Islands – where appropriate Island impacts assessments will be carried out to identify any implications 5.6 Climate Change – due regard will be given to climate change with a view to minimising any climate change impact and these will be considered as and when they arise 5.7 Risk – risk managed through toolbox talks, safety briefings and where appropriate risk registers – all of the above are monitored through the RIS leadership and management teams 5.8 Customer Service – none known Page 82
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Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads and Transport, Councillor Andrew Kain August 2023 For further information contact: Jim Smith, Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services; or Mark Calder, Project Manager Page 83
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE ROAD AND INFRASTRUCTURE SEPTEMBER 2023 SERVICES PLAY PARK ENGAGEMENT – UPDATE REPORT 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 In August 2022, the Scottish Government confirmed a full 5 year funding package to all Scottish Local Authorities from 2020/21 through to 2025/26. Argyll and Bute Council will receive a total of £938k for Play Park funding. 1.2 In December 2022, the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee noted the priority list of play parks in each area, based on inspections and feedback from Youth Forums. A copy of this can be found in the following link:- Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee 1 December 2022 1.3 The March 2023 Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee agreed a process for further engagement with other groups, including youth forums and relevant Community Councils. 1.4 This report outlines the response from the engagement exercise and seeks agreement for spend on Tobermory Play Park. RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee: Note the breakdown of engagement and consultation responses in each area with the majority of responses focussing on new/replacement equipment; Agree the relevant spend on the Tobermory Play Park. Page 85 Agenda Item 8
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE ROAD AND INFRASTRUCTURE SEPTEMBER 2023 SERVICES PLAY PARK ENGAGEMENT – UPDATE REPORT 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 This report provides an update to the Play Park engagement responses for the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee: Note the breakdown of engagement and consultation responses in each area with the majority of responses focussing on new/replacement equipment; Agree the relevant spend on the Tobermory Play Park. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 In August 2022, the Scottish Government confirmed a full 5 year funding package to all Scottish Local Authorities from 2020/21 through to 2025/26. Argyll and Bute Council will receive a total of £938k for Play Park funding. 4.2 The below table highlights the funding split for each area as well as the number of play parks, as per previous Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee agreement, the funding was an indicative £33,500 per play park which, when the engagement process has been fully reviewed, this can be amended by the local Area Committee. Area Number of Play Parks Funding Total Helensburgh and Lomond 11 £368,500 Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands 11 £368,500 Bute and Cowal 5 £167,500 Oban Lorn and the Isles 1 £33,500 Page 86
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TOTAL 28 £938,000 4.3 The March 2023 EDI Committee agreed a process for further engagement with other groups, including youth forums and relevant Community Councils. 4.4 Area Committee Business days with Elected members took place in 2022. A full engagement process has since taken place and the online engagement for adults and youths closed on Friday 14 July 2023 with the following update:- 1054 Adult Responses 408 Youth Responses This was a remarkable return for the play park engagement process and highlights the depth of feeling play parks have on our communities who are clearly keen to express their views. 4.5 The responses were broken down as follows: A Total of 1054 adult responses: Area New/Replacement Equipment Health and Safety Access for ALL Bute and Cowal 146 35 64 Helensburgh and Lomond 226 74 54 Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islands 215 40 37 Oban Lorn and the Isles 9 3 4 Out of the 1054 adult responses there were a total of 147 which were void either due to referring to a non-council play park or being unable to assess the correct location from the comments. A Total of 408 Youth Responses: Area New/Replacement Equipment Health and Safety Access for ALL Bute and Cowal 68 7 5 Helensburgh and Lomond 101 7 4 (Plus 2 don’t know) Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islands 129 5 8 (plus 1 Don’t Know) Page 87
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Oban Lorn and the Isles 1 0 0 Out of the 408 young person responses there were a total of 70 which were void either due to referring to a non-council play park or being unable to assess the correct location from the comments. A note of the responses to the engagement priorities from the Oban, Lorn and the Isles community is attached at Appendix 1 of this report. 4.6 The Council now requires to consider what equipment is needed for each play park. 4.7 The costings of equipment only:- Swings - £6500 + VAT Spring Seesaw - £2750 + VAT Climbing Net - £11,250.00 + VAT Wheel Chair Accessible Roundabout - £5000-£12000 +VAT The funding for the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area to cover its 1 play park is £33,500. 4.8 The timeline for play parks is noted as follows:- ACTION TIMESCALE Engagement with Community Councils and Education Department Commenced March-May 2023 Engagement with Disability Forums Expected to commence Autumn/Winter 2023 Area Business Days to agree how funding will be spent Autumn (prior to Area Committee Meetings in December 2023) Area Committee to formally agree the funding for each play park December 2023 Procurement process (which will last 8 – 12 weeks) Expected to commence early 2024 Installations Expected to commence Spring 2024 (dependent on procurement process as above) 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The Scottish Government has allocated a total of £938k for Play Park funding to Argyll and Bute Council for investment in play park equipment through to 2025/26 from the Capital Allocation for Renewal of Play Parks Fund. Page 88
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5.2 Officers will make the necessary arrangements for Tobermory Play Park and report an update to the December Area Committee. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – This project will be delivered within the Procurement tendering process however, as we have had two unsuccessful processes already as well as a direct award failure members should note that this may well delay matters and officers. 6.2 Financial – funded from grant funding from Scottish Government. 6.3 Legal – None known. 6.4 HR – None known. 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: None known 6.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics – engagement will take place with appropriate groups, including the disability forum, to provide a positive impact on our young people. 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – None known. 6.5.3 Islands – elements of renewal on all play parks, which therefore will not adversely affect islands. 6.6. Climate Change – we will endeavour to minimise carbon footprint of this project. 6.7 Risk – Failure to deliver within the allotted Scottish Government timescales may result in losing the budget allocated. 6.8 Customer Service – the intention of this funding is to provide better facilities for our customers. Executive Director with responsibility for Road and Infrastructure Services, Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Climate Change and Environment, Councillor Ross Moreland August 2023 For further information contact: Jim Smith, Head of Road and Infrastructure Services Jim.Smith@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 89
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Hugh O’Neill, Network and Standards Manager Hugh.ONeill@argyll-bute.gov.uk APPENDICES: Appendix 1 – Breakdown of community responses to consultation Appendix 2 – Breakdown of indicative costs for equipment and fitting Page 90
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APPENDIX 1: BREAKDOWN OF COMMUNITY RESPONSES TO CONSULTATION Play Park Name/Location Responses for priority being Renew/Replace Responses for priority being Health and Safety Responses for priority being Access for ALL Young Adult Young Adult Young Adult Tobermory 1 9 0 3 0 4 Total 1 9 0 3 0 4 Page 91
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APPENDIX 2: INDICATIVE COSTS FOR PLAY EQUIPMENT 1. CUSTOM Ship £18,800.00 plus installation £3,125.00 2. Featured Springer between £500 to £630.00 plus Installation £294.00 3. Spring Seesaw £2,250.00 plus Installation £514.00 4. Climbing Net £11,250.00 plus Installation £3,372.00 5. Frame £4,360.00 plus Installation £698.00 6. Spinner Bowl £680.00 plus Installation £231.00 7. Swing Frame, £5,040.00 plus Installation £1,452.00 8. Flexus stand up swing, £3,120.00 plus Installation £514.00 9. Ground Preparation £54,966.62 Site Set up Excavate area and remove spoil off site, Supply & install kerb edging, Supply & lay cultivated turf Supply & sow seed Safer Surfacing WETPOUR Heras site security fencing Removal of packaging and Waste 10. Equipment Delivery Charge £4,181.20 11. Total Excl. VAT £115,477.82 12. Total Inclusive of VAT = £138,573.38 Page 92
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE COMMUNITY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 13 September 2023 SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - Monitoring of Projects Funded 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide monitoring information on the funding given to community projects from the council’s Supporting Communities Fund. 1.2 The time period of this report covers projects funded within 2019/20, 2020/21 and 2021/22. Due to the disruption of Covid 19 on the planned funded projects of community groups, the council agreed to lengthen the time projects had to be delivered. Therefore this report summarises projects completed within the years disrupted by Covid 19. 1.3 Members are asked to consider the contents of the report showing a summary of the information supplied by organisations in their End of Project Monitoring Reports. Page 93 Agenda Item 9
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE COMMUNITY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 13 September 2023 SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - Monitoring of Projects Funded 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 This report highlights the positive outcomes for communities in Oban, Lorn and the Isles through the allocation of the Council’s Supporting Communities Fund between 2019/20 and 2021/22. 2.2 A total of 52 projects were awarded funding. Due to the challenges throughout that period for community groups and adjustments that had to be made to the running of their projects, it has been more challenging to receive an End of Project Monitoring Report from all awards of funding. These were exceptional years and we are grateful to the 42 grant recipients who were able to submit information for this report. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee: 3.1 Note and consider the positive contribution of the Supporting Communities Fund detailed in section 4 and the attached table. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 The funded projects supported approximately 13,897 people to participate in a variety of themed activities including outdoor activities, sports, music and mental health. Highlights include: Friends of the Argyll Papers A multi-media project inspired by Tiree stories and themes and the Tiree landscape. Myths and ‘true’ stories were extracted from historical records from different periods in both Gaelic and English. Musicians, a songwriter and a filmmaker responded, creating new music, songs and films, re-telling traditional stories and creating new ones. Page 94
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The works have been published on the project website and were incorporated into a multi-media performance delivered in June. The project welcomed 2,356 participants and culminated in an exhibition of complete works of drama, music, song, filmmaking and creative writing linked to the history of the island and its landscape. The grant supported artist fees, poetry and creative writing group, production of a booklet, performance costs and evaluation for a bi-lingual community arts project. Hope Kitchen Martyn's Monday Club and a new Women's Club provided a weekly space for people in the Oban area who have experienced suicidal thoughts or who have been affected by another person taking their own life. The grant enabled Hope Kitchen to partner with Martyn’s Monday Club to deliver 92 sessions. On average 20 people attended the men’s group on a weekly basis and 19 attended the women’s group. Mull and Iona Community Trust The Ulva Ferry Transport Project ran a scheduled 3 day a week accessible minibus service and electric car, helping residents to access local services. The bus service was utilised to deliver food to those shielding or on low income during Covid-19 restrictions. An elderly resident did not arrive at the arranged time, the driver knowing the person, went to check. He was found to be in need of first aid and immediate hospitalisation and without the bus service would have died. South West Mull and Iona Development The project workers transformed an overgrown green space in Bunessan into a vibrant community garden and tree nursery, the grant enabled the employment of a sessional worker and provided tools and transport for volunteers. Schools and pre-school groups, a nature club, volunteers and allotment bed holders have accessed the garden to participate in activities and workshops, plant swap events and to gather produce from the raised beds, poly tunnels and fruit cages. 4.2 The attached table summarises information received from individual projects. 4.3 42 grant recipients have submitted an End of Project Monitoring Report. 4.4 In the 2020/21 funding cycle, Oban & District Access Panel were granted an extension to complete their project of funding for a P/T Page 95
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Secretary to 31 March 2024. They are listed as project no. 9 in the 2020/21 list. 4.5 In the 2021/22 funding cycle, Oban & District Access Panel were granted an extension to complete their project of funding for a P/T Secretary to 31 March 2024. They are listed as project no. 11 in the 2021/22 list. 4.6 In the 2021/22 funding cycle, Tiree Community Council were granted an extension to complete their project of funding for a Community Garden to 1st October. They are listed as project no. 16 in the 2021/22 list. Page 96
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2019/20 SCF Round of Funding No Organisation Project Funded Award End of Project Achievements No. of people in communities benefitting 1 ACT - Argyll & the Isles Coast & Countryside Trust Moving On sessions to maintain continuity of activities for participants of ‘Branching Out’ aimed at those affected by mental health 1,250.00 As planned, the sessions took place out of doors and the trained staff facilitated the activities such as green wood working, spoon carving, weaving, gardening and tidying and participants cooked and shared a communal meal each day. Activities undertaken also included coordination and set up, design of evaluation forms, site visits to help with monitoring and cover support staff. 10 2 Air Ghleus Tutoring in Gaelic song, language & culture 242.00 A total of 5 schools were visited on a regular basis 4 in Mull, one in Ardnamurchan, reaching out to those who otherwise would have no access to music or Gaelic. 151 3 Argyll RDA Carriage Driving Group Running Costs & Livery for two ponies 1,650.00 Our drivers enjoyed the season, in spite of some wet days, and the ponies were kept fit. Three of our client drivers competed at the Hopetoun Horse trials and all did exceedingly well. 28 4 Bookends Festival, Benderloch Pop-Up Reading & Activity Sessions & Hall Hire 400.00 We held regular pop-ups bringing young families, school aged children and adults of every age together in a safe and friendly space. This year we saw more teenagers than before as the effects of bringing authors into Oban High School begins to take effect. Several young mums, dads and grandparent carers who had not attended before became regular visitors as the word gets out that we are there for all ages. 1668 5 Coisir Ghaidhlig an Obain (Oban Gaelic Choir) Attendance at the Estonian Song and Dance Celebration in July 2019 242.00 The visit had a great team building impact on choir members as a whole and we are sure contributed to our focus and further development prior to the National Mod in Glasgow in October 2019, where we achieved first place in the Lovat & Tullibardine Shield competition. 25 6 Comunn Gaidhealach an Obain (Oban Mod Academy) Tutors and resources to support children to prepare for local and national MÒDs to increase participation from Oban and Lorn. 1,000.00 As a result of Mod Academy tutors working with St Columba’s Primary, Rockfield /Gaelic Medium, Dunbeg and Oban High School, we had an excellent number of children competing at Oban Provincial, Tobermory and the Royal National Mod. Several of the parents also entered and took their children to Lochaber, 100 Page 97
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2019/20 SCF Round of Funding Ardnamurchan and Barra. We have been delighted with the results and the positive adjudications – many of the children bringing home trophies and prizes. 7 Comunn Gaidhealeach Mhuile (Mull Junior Mod Club) Uniforms: matching polo shirts, kilts and fleeces for the children. 500.00 The children all felt very proud to be wearing their new kilts, and it gave them a sense of ‘togetherness’, very important for choir activities! 22 8 Co-Roinn Ghàidhlig Mhuile agus Idhe (Mull & Iona Gaelic Partnership) Tutors and venue hire for Gaelic classes 500.00 We continued to run regular Gaelic classes, in the Ross of Mull and in Tobermory. We also organised more Gaelic drama workshops in October 2019, run by Artair Donald. We organised workshops for the Gaelic medium pupils in Bunessan Primary School, Salen Primary School and Tobermory High School. We also had two community workshops, one in Creich Hall and one in Tobermory High School. 123 9 Craignure Recreational Activity Facility Team (CRAFT) Land lease & installation of playpark equipment 2,500.00 We placed a first order for new play park equipment in December 2019 and were able to have this equipment installed in early March 2020. This first installation comprised: - Two swing sets, featuring toddler swing seats, a normal child seat and an additional needs seat - A climbing frame with slide for toddler/preschool age - A playboat with seating for toddler/preschool age - An agility trail with a range of items Unknown 10 Crossroads North Argyll Respite for Carers: Trips and Carers mileage 750.00 The Carers/cared-for were picked up from their homes and driven to wherever they were meeting that day. We visited a different place each week, sometimes places of interest eg. Oban War and Peace Museum, the Slate Islands Museum on the Isle of Seil, Cruachan Power Station, coffee shops, trip on the ferry to Mull. 7 11 Footprint Alba Installation of local beach boards reminding the public about marine litter 1,500.00 Footprint Alba did not draw down the £1,500 awarded to them. The project did not go ahead due to resourcing issues. N/a 12 Friends of Kilbride An interpretative board on the history of Kilbride 1,231.00 The information board has been in place for some months now and is very well received by Visitors as it gives information, not only about the Churchyard, but also of the surrounding area and Unknown Page 98
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2019/20 SCF Round of Funding local historical sites. 13 Glencruitten Cathedral of Trees (SCIO) Woodland activities for vulnerable groups: provision of food and mental health nurse 1,250.00 Project not delivered £1250 returned for rollover to 2021/22 cycle 14 Grab Trust Diverts furniture, electricals and household goods from landfill: supports homeless people entering new tenancies 242.00 Project not delivered - Grab Trust were unable to secure full funding for their project £242 returned for rollover to 2021/22 cycle 15 Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust Curriculum-linked workshops for pupils on the Isles of Mull and Iona 242.00 We visited all eight primary schools on the Isle of Mull and Iona and delivered inspiring workshops to 201 Pupils. The new workshop included stories, photos, maps and data from our research, sharing the secret lives of whales in our waters, whilst putting Scotland’s seas into a global context. In partnership with the Glengorm Wildlife Project, we supported S3 pupils from Tobermory High School to achieve their John Muir Discovery Award through outdoor learning and active conservation. Two volunteers under 26 years old and in the early stages of their careers supported the delivery of the project, gaining valuable work experience. 224 16 Hope Kitchen Running Costs of Martyn's Monday Club & a new Women's Club for vulnerable and marginalised people 2,300.00 The aim was to provide a space for people in the Oban area who have experienced suicidal thoughts or who have been affected by another person taking their own life. The 2 groups met every week - 92 sessions were delivered and Hope Kitchen partnered with Martyn’s Monday Club to deliver these sessions. On average 20 people attended the men’s group on a weekly basis and 19 attended the women’s group. 100 17 Mull Museum Archaeology for Mull Museum: 2 week programme of archaeological works at the 1,000.00 Excavation at Lephin Isle of Mull in 2018 and 2019 by Mull Museum and Argyll Archaeology, yielded a wide range of artefacts including pottery sherds, stone, bone iron and non-ferrous metalwork artefacts. Mull Museum will create a display in the 120 Page 99
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2019/20 SCF Round of Funding burial ground site known as Lephin Chapel or Port Bhraonian, on the Isle of Mull Museum with the story and artefacts recovered. 18 Oban Communities Trust – The Rockfield Centre Workshops: Make-it-for- Christmas Project 242.00 TRC held Create Christmas event on site with help from 3 volunteer tutors. Event was open to all – free with attendance of 70 family groups. Sessions were booked with 2 sessions 3 hour slots. All children went home with gift they had made. Unknown 19 Oban Winter Festival Entertainers & workshop costs 2,500.00 The 2019 festival was the 9th and saw over 100 events taking place over the 10 days together with St Andrew’s weekend. The key event for 2019 was the Winter Woods which built on the 2018 event and was hugely popular with families. We had excellent attendance at our markets held at the Distillery, Corran Halls, the View and the Perle Hotel. This provided opportunities for local vendors and was hugely popular with locals and visitors alike with 10,300 attendances. Unknown 20 Oban Youth Cafe Overnight trip for vulnerable youngsters: accommodation, food & youth workers 750.00 Vulnerable young people were supported to engage with their peers and youth work staff to participate activities that increased their life skills, challenged their thinking and supported their transition into adulthood. Unknown 21 Project Trust Global Citizenship Festival 1,976.00 In the workshops the Ambassadors covered topics such as rights and responsibilities, daily routines of children around the world, preconception and realities of developing countries, and global citizenship values. 114 22 Roses Charitable Trust Outdoor Activities: instructors & overheads 2,500.00 We carried out outdoor activity sessions working in partnership with the Oban Hostel, the Youth Café and Oban High School. Young people aged 11-13 from the hostel were taken coasteering/sea swimming. Young People identified via Oban Youth Café went rock climbing and hill walking. 25 23 Seil Island Community Hall Charity Seil and Easdale Music Scheme (SEMS) Running Costs 241.00 Delivering a programme of live musical events through residencies, concerts and community based actions; working towards development of events programme in partnership with established local and national organizations. 130 Page 100
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2019/20 SCF Round of Funding 24 Sound Waves SCIO Tutor fees/accommodation and marketing of monthly music workshops 242.00 Grant not taken £242 returned for rollover to 2021/22 cycle 2020/21 SCF Round of Funding No Organisation Project Funded Award End of Project Achievements No. of people in communities benefitting 1 Connel Community Council / /Connel Village Hall bunting and decorations, World War 2 memorabilia for display, electricity and a community lunch for a World War 2 Memorial Day to mark the 75th anniversary of VE day as part of the national programme of events. £400.00 Funds not taken £400 returned for 2022/23 cycle 2 Friends of St Conan's Kirk SCIO the costs of running the St Conan’s Kirk Christmas Tree festival in December 2020 including marketing, information leaflets, signage, heating, catering, a shuttle bus, children’s activities, insulated floormats for volunteer workstation, temporary lighting and administration support. £2,500.00 COVID was a major barrier to the Christmas Tree Festival 2020 and prevented it running as intended. The festival is a local community indoor event run by a wide range of volunteers including older people. In response to the pandemic and community feedback we changed the format to be a month long outdoor activity with exterior festive lighting for visitors. This was open to the public, visible from the A85 passing the kirk. Unknown 3 Friends of the Argyll artist fees, poet, a creative £2,500.00 We selected a number of Tiree stories for the project, arranged by 2,356 Page 101
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2020/21 SCF Round of Funding Papers writing group, production of a booklet, performance costs including venue hire, lighting/scenery, costumes, publicity, recording and evaluation for a bi-lingual arts project on Tiree involving local artists, children and community members. The project will culminate in a final exhibition of the finished works which will use drama, music, song, filmmaking and creative writing to create pieces linked to the history of the island and its landscape. themes and each associated with a specific place on Tiree, with historical records (written document, drawing, photograph) or features in the landscape such as stones or structures. The stories came from a range of historical periods and included myths as well as ‘true’ stories, in both Gaelic and English. Musicians, songwriter and a filmmaker responded to these stories, creating new music, songs and films which have been published on the project website and were incorporated into the multi-media performance delivered in June. The new music, songs and films re- tell traditional stories and also introduce new stories, drawn from the historical records. 4 Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival venue hire, stewarding, adjudicators, equipment hire, advertising and fringe events for a 3 day traditional music and dance competition event. Any award will be dependent on submission of a copy of event insurance. £2,500.00 A large number of participants attended the Piping and Dancing events, some as young as 5 years, dancers worked hard all year, some hadn’t competed before - to win cash and trophies. After a two year break, there was much enthusiasm for reinstating the festival, now in its 40th year. Friends were made and reunited and the event attracted visitors out-with Argyll and Scotland as far as USA, bringing revenue to the town and creating a wonderful ‘buzz’ during the weekend. We’ll gradually expand competitions and events to include a Schools’ Day and other musical events. 1207 5 Isle of Kerrera Development Trust marquee and venue hire, sessional co-ordinator costs, entertainment, prizes, medals, bibs, volunteer transport and catering, safety equipment, bike hire £1,225.00 We hosted a bike event for children aged 3-16 years and their families and friends. This event was for islanders, locals from the mainland and other visitors and it created important opportunities for families to meet and socialise, along with encouraging cycling and being active. 130 Page 102
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2020/21 SCF Round of Funding and marketing to trial a cycling event on the Isle of Kerrera, with a view to it becoming an annual event. Any award will be dependent on submission of a copy of event insurance. 6 Kilmore and Kilbride Public Hall Committee One-off contribution towards revenue costs for Kilmore and Kilbride Public Hall. £2,500.00 Our main project which was to build a new kitchen for our local hall, has made a significant improvement to the lives of the local community. Not only is the kitchen a healthy safe place to prepare food but it has in turn encouraged people to make use of the hall itself. Gatherings such as children’s parties and family celebrations have increased plus fund raising functions such as soup lunches and book sales. 139 7 Mull and Iona Community Trust running costs of the Ulva Ferry Transport Project – the project runs a scheduled 3 day a week accessible minibus service and electric car which supports access to services. £2,500.00 In April 2020 we had virtually changed into a community food delivery service, with the Bus running 2 days a week to deliver food for those shielding or on low income. This tied in with social distancing requirements, meant that we could only have 4 people on our bus at any time. We also had a case where an elderly resident did not arrive at the arranged time and our driver knowing the person, went to check. He was found to be in need of first aid and immediate hospitalisation and without the bus service would have died. 179 8 Mull Safe and Sound running costs for mental health support charity operating in Salen, Tobermory, Bunessan and Craignure. Costs include venue hire, transport, refreshments for meetings, information and merchandise (e.g. wristbands). £2,500.00 We had to adapt our project due to the covid pandemic, we moved as much as possible to online using zoom, phone calls and private messaging services. We also provided information leaflets with helpline numbers and info on what we were making available during lockdowns, we started a dedicated men’s group on zoom that is still ongoing supporting many males from the island and surrounding villages, we also moved our peer-to-peer group from in person to zoom supporting on island and Oban residents. 75 Page 103
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2020/21 SCF Round of Funding 9 Oban & District Access Panel creation of a paid part-time post of secretary for the Panel which would allow the current voluntary secretary to concentrate on access audits and scrutiny of planning applications. £1,972.00 Project not delivered Extension requested 10 Ross of Mull and Iona Community Transport Scheme costs of running a community transport scheme in the Ross of Mull including Co-ordinator salary, vehicle running costs, insurance and volunteer expenses. £2,500.00 We responded to all transport needs of the local community from elderly going to lunch clubs, individuals attending doctors and hospital appointments and young people attending community events such as the Feis. We also funded a Sunday lunch club called Linda's meals which was attended by on average 14 people per week. 384 11 South West Mull and Iona Development costs to establish a Community Garden Project in Bunessan, including a sessional worker, hand tools, transport and a small subsistence budget for volunteers. £2,500.00 We have succeeded in transforming an overgrown green space within Bunessan into a vibrant community garden, with raised beds, sheds, polytunnel, fruit cages, and a tree nursery. We have become a venue for school groups, pre-school groups, a nature club, as well as a regular place to visit for volunteers and allotment bed holders. We regularly hold events such as plant swaps, home produce days, and creative activities and workshops. 69 12 WorkingRite the costs of supporting 15 vulnerable young people to find sustained jobs in their own area with 16 weeks intensive support thereby contributing to the local economy and preventing population decline. This contribution is requested towards participant’s travel, Protective Personal Equipment and extra training courses. £1,073.00 The Mentor to motivate Project has succeeded in helping put Argyll and Bute’s most vulnerable young people onto a better pathway into adulthood by offering job and life skills and mentored work experience. The barriers that these young people experienced were wide ranging, but included: Lack of any work experience School refusers Social Anxiety Self-Harm Special Needs Ethnic Minorities, including Travellers Substance Issues 32 Page 104
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2021/22 SCF Round of Funding No Organisation Project Funded Award End of Project Achievements No. of people in communities benefitting 1 Ardchattan Centre A contribution towards initial running costs for the Ardchattan Centre which is scheduled to transfer to community ownership on 1 April 2021. £1,800.00 We have managed to host pop-up tearooms to enjoy home baking and communicate with neighbours and friends. We hosted a very successful open day last September, we used outdoor marquees and the all day event attracted people who enjoyed book sales, craft market and homemaking. The popular Christmas craft fair and tearoom was welcomed back after lockdown, this was successful with local crafters and well supported. 60 2 Artmap Argyll Support for the fourteenth Artmap Argyll open studios event in August 2021. £600.00 We were able to run the Open Studios event as planned, even though studio numbers were slightly down on expected numbers. The funding from the Supporting Communities Fund was essential to help make this happen. Feedback from the participating studios was overwhelmingly positive. 3,462 3 Bendoran Watersports CIC Delivery of two "Watersports and Wellbeing" - learn to sea kayak courses for the people of the Ross of Mull and Iona. One course will be targeted at young people under 18 at the other course targeted at people who are not in full time employment. £2,500.00 The young person activity week included sailing, sea kayaking, sea kayaking expedition and an over night camp at Market Bay on the Ross of Mull. We included Mindful activities such as building stone towers on rocky beaches and beach cleaning. For the adult group, the activity focussed on sailing and the main benefits were combating isolation by getting people together. Getting out on the water allowed people to get away from daily stresses and feel the achievement of earning something new with other people from the community. 40 4 CHARTS Support pilot project offering simultaneous translation at community meetings within Gaelic speaking communities. £2,048.00 The project met its key aims to introduce simultaneous Gaelic translation to the partnership and pilot this inventive for Argyll and Bute region, also believed to have been the first Gaelic project of its type nationally, outside the Scottish Government. 79 Page 105
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2021/22 SCF Round of Funding 5 Comunn Gàidhealach an Òbain (Oban Mod Academy) PVG registered tutors to support Gaelic and non Gaelic speaking children from the local area, to prepare for Local and National Mods. £1,500.00 The aim of the project is to support Gaelic and non-Gaelic speaking children from the local area, to prepare for Local and National Mods. This was achieved by appointing a PVG approved native Gaelic speaking tutor to teach the children via zoom. 40 6 Hebridean Pursuits Outdoor Learning The delivery of regular Outdoor Art and Creative sessions on a 121, (or small family group) basis, with local young carers/young carers and their families. £2,000.00 We took young carers from the local area, and sometimes their families as well, on outdoor adventures with a creative focus. Sessions included outdoor activities such as rock climbing, coastering, walking and spending time in nature; sometimes we also sketched and other times just observed and discussed the colours of nature. Our aims were to work with local young people from North Argyll Carers Centre (NAYC) and develop the non-residential strand of our work. We met this aim and feel that our relationship with NAYC has been strengthened and we have more experience in working in this way with local young people and their families. 32 7 Lorn and Oban Healthy Options Deliver core activities of community based health improvement project. £2,500.00 All services were provided free of charge to the clients, unless they felt able to pay a small monthly fee. We feel we met our aims during this period of removing financial barriers for the people in our communities to access sports and wellbeing activities. 308 8 MECOPP - Minority Ethnic Carers of People Project Deliver a series of traditional basket making workshops involving members of Mid and North Argyll’s Gypsy/Traveller community £1,225.00 Participants reported high levels of satisfaction of, and engagement with, the activity highlighting that it brought back memories and stories from childhood of a more traditional way of life. Participants also enjoyed coming together with other community members having been isolated due to lockdown restrictions, noting a positive benefit on mental health and wellbeing. Confidence was also increased from learning new skills and being encouraged to participate in a new activity. 19 9 Mull and Iona Community Trust A contribution towards the costs of the Ulva Ferry Transport Project. The £905.00 In 2020, we were still collecting and delivering shopping & prescriptions to help our elderly and shielding residents of Ulva Ferry. We were delivering groceries and prescriptions to around 1,392 Page 106
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2021/22 SCF Round of Funding project provides: an accessible minibus 3 days a week, an electric car offering transport for max 3 passengers , 7 days a week door-to-door service on Mull outside the scheduled service. 60 households per month until the end of July. We have increased traffic with over 90 healthcare appointments for wheelchair/disabled users. These are journeys that would have possibly required Scottish Ambulance Service or other outside help. We are the only provider of wheelchair accessible vehicles in North Mull. 10 North West Mull Community Woodland Cost of materials and workshops to create a living willow project. £905.00 The aim was to have inter-generational workshops. It was hoped that it would encourage various generations to work together post Covid-19 and it was hoped that this would promote mental health and well-being within the community. We had 2 community workshops. The youngest participant was a young toddler and the oldest a local community member of 77. The workshops were led by a local willow artist. 36 11 Oban & District Access Panel Sustain the part-time post of support officer for the Panel and help to support part- time fundraising assistance so that the support position and other work of the Panel will be sustainably funded going forward. £1,500.00 Project not delivered Extension required 12 Oban Men's Shed Restore the WWII Register Number 552 (Small Craft) Clinker Built Dipping Lug Sail boat, work to make it sea worthy and enable it to be restored as a valuable piece of local history. £1,946.00 The project ended up being a lot more work than anticipated; but members gained experience in working with wood. 13 13 Ross of Mull and Iona Community Transport Hire of local community facilities, catering and flexible community transport arrangements to facilitate £2,000.00 The main events that were supported were community meals held in Creich Hall, this included regular Sunday lunches and also community cafe which were held at the same time as opening the library. 160 Page 107
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2021/22 SCF Round of Funding community activities (in line with Covid guidance) to encourage and support the re-establishment of community activities in the Ross of Mull. The project will particularly support the participation of the elderly and vulnerable. In addition several other community events were supported with Transport and Funding such as the Children’s Fundraising Disco, the local PTA fundraiser. A film which documented the history of local fishing over the last 50 years and it has changed. Transport to the Feis which provides traditional music lessons for young people in the community. Transport to the turning on of Christmas lights and street party. 14 Seil and Easdale Community Council Community improvement, activities. Post Covid: card and food parcel to lift the spirits of older people, books and educational activity packs for young children. General: repair of public seating at the Square at Ellenabeich, repair to seating area at the playing field, signs and information boards, pots, compost and plants £905.00 We provided activity packs for the children, carried out repairs to the village square, and placed potted plants around the bus shelter. We also put up signs and a notice board. 739 15 The Community Bureau SCIO Costs to staff and run outdoor activities for older people, people with long- term health conditions and people with mental health issues, to support them with the impact of lockdown. £1,000.00 The main activities were provision of low level walks, themed around exploring our woodlands. This aimed to bring people and communities together. Each walk over the better weather taking place in different location, alongside other outdoor and fun activities (an example was wild swimming). Enabling people to engage with each other, gain confidence and new skills; also to improve mobility for those who have largely been confined to their homes for long periods. 99 16 Tiree Community Council To establish a community food growing garden to aid food resilience throughout the island of Tiree. The £2,400.00 Extension granted. N/a Page 108
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2021/22 SCF Round of Funding money will be used to provide a number of raised beds, hand tools, suitable groundworks and storage facilities. Page 109
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5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The project monitoring form has a section asking for comments on the grant process. Not all applicants have completed this section but of those received, the comments have largely been very positive. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy: None 6.2 Financial: The report sets out the expenditure from the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area 2018/19- 2021/22 budget for the allocation of Supporting Communities Fund. The timeline at the bottom of the report encompasses monies which would have been rolled over from 2018/19 to be spent in the 2019/20 cycle and is included for completion. 6.3 Legal: None 6.4 HR: None 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty/Equalities/Islands: Compliant with policy and noting that 8 of the funded projects were on islands (Mull and Coll). 6.6 Risk: None 6.7 Customer Service: None Chief Executive – Pippa Milne Policy Lead - Cllr Alistair Redman Communities and Partnership Manager– Rona Gold 12 September 2023 For further information contact: Community Development Officer Ailie Law on 01546 604707 / ailie.law@argyll-bute.gov.uk. Page 110
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Legal and Regulatory Support 13 September 2023 Appointments to Outside Organisations 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The Area Committee made appointments to various outside bodies and organisations at the meeting held on 15 June 2022. Since those decisions were taken, there have been change in circumstances which have left 2 vacancies. 1.2 The Area Committee is asked to consider the appointment an Elected Member to the Atlantis Leisure Board and note the current position in relation to West Highland Housing Association. Page 111 Agenda Item 10
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Legal and Regulatory Support 13 September 2023 Appointments to Outside Organisations 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 The Area Committee made appointments to various outside bodies and organisations at the meeting held on 15 June 2022. Since that time vacancies have arisen on the Atlantis Leisure Board and West Highland Housing Association. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 The Area Committee is asked to: 3.1.1 Note the position in relation to nominations for West Highland Housing Association, and 3.1.2 Consider the appointment of an Elected Member to the Atlantis Leisure Board. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 Councillor Martin advised officers on 22nd August 2023 of her wish to withdraw from her appointments to the Atlantis Leisure Board and West Highland Housing Association (WHHA). 4.2 WHHA is a registered Social Landlord providing affordable housing in Oban, Lorn and the Isles and Islay, Colonsay and Jura. It is anticipated that a Special General Meeting scheduled to take place on the 7th September may, in line with recent regulations, agree changes to their rules and Board composition to include reducing the number of council nominations onto the Board from two down to one. Councillor Dougie MacFadzean, member for Ward 2, Kintyre and the Isles, is currently a Board member of WHHA. An update on this will be reported to Members at the OLI Committee meeting. 4.3 Atlantis Leisure is a charity who deliver key services to the local community. Incorporated in July 1992 and run a centre with facilities including a 4 lane 25 meter swimming pool, small pool, 2 squash courts, 3 tennis courts, 2 outdoor pitches, climbing wall, 3 tier soft play, two dance studios, 35 station gym, meeting rooms, cafe, beauty therapy room and a 6 court sports hall. Within these facilities they run sporting and non-sporting events (National/Regional/Community), and group fitness classes. 4.3 Appointments made to outside organisations will be until the next Local Page 112
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Government Elections scheduled for May 2027. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 This report advises the Area Committee of the current situation in regard to the appointments to the Atlantis Leisure Board and West Highland Housing Association. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – none 6.2 Financial – there may be costs incurred in terms of Members attending these meetings. 6.3 Legal – none 6.4 HR – none 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty – none 6.5.1 Equalities – protect characteristics – none 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – none 6.5.3 Islands – none 6.6 Climate Change – none 6.7 Risk – none 6.8 Customer Service – none Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support 23 August 2023 For further information contact: Melissa Stewart, Governance Officer Tel: (01546) 604331 APPENDICES None. Page 113
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Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Workplan 2023-24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 13 September 2023 13 September 2023 Quarterly Performance Scorecard FQ1 23/24 Performance Management and Improvement Officer Quarterly Report 21 August 2023 13 September 2023 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Development and Infrastructure Jim Smith Quarterly Report 21 August 2023 13 September 2023 Annual Recycling Performance Report Jim Smith Roads and Infrastructure Services Annual Report 21 August 2023 13 September 2023 Supporting Communities Fund – End of Project Monitoring 21/22 Rona Gold/Ailie Law Chief Executive Annual Report 21 August 2023 13 September John of Lorn Bequest Applications Melissa Stewart, Legal & Regulatory As required 21 August 2023 Cut off for applications 21 August 2023 13 September 2023 Area Committee Workplan Melissa Stewart For updating 21 August 2023 13 September 2023 Appointment to Outside Organisations Stuart McLean/ Melissa Stewart As required 21 August 2023 Page 115 Agenda Item 11
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Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Workplan 2023-24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 13 December 2023 13 December 2023 Quarterly Performance Scorecard FQ2 23/24 Performance Management and Improvement Officer Quarterly report 13 December 2023 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Development and Infrastructure Jim Smith Quarterly report 13 December 2023 Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds Legal & Regulatory Support – Stuart McLean Annual Report 13 December 2023 ACHA Annual Update Chief Executive ACHA Annual Report 13 December 2023 HSCP Bi-Annual Update Report Charlotte Craig/Fiona Davies Argyll and Bute HSCP Annual 13 December 2023 John of Lorn Bequest Applications Legal & Regulatory Support – Melissa Stewart As required 13 December 2023 Local Housing Strategy Annual Update Director of Development and Infrastructure – Douglas Whyte Annual Report 13 December 2023 Area Committee Workplan Melissa Stewart For updating Page 116
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Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Workplan 2023-24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 13 December 2023 CHARTS Seymour Adams 13 December 2023 Primary School Update Annual Report 6 March 2024 6 March 2024 Quarterly Performance Scorecard FQ3 23/24 Improvement and HR – Sonya Thomas Quarterly Report 6 March 2024 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Development and Infrastructure Jim Smith Quarterly Report 6 March 2024 Strategic Housing investment plan (SHIP) Director of Development and Infrastructure – Douglas Whyte Annual Report 6 March 2024 Area Committee Workplan Melissa Stewart For updating 6 March 2023 John of Lorn Bequest Applications Melissa Stewart Legal & Regulatory When required 12 June 2024 12 June 2024 Quarterly Performance Scorecard FQ4 22/23 Improvement and HR – Sonya Thomas Quarterly Report Page 117
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Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Workplan 2023-24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 12 June 2024 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Development and Infrastructure Jim Smith Quarterly Report 12 June 2024 HSCP Bi-Annual Update Report Health & Social Care Partnership – Charlotte Craig Bi-Annual Report 12 June 2024 Secondary School Reports - Oban High School Head Teacher Peter Bain Annual Report 12 June 2024 Secondary School Reports - Tiree High School Head Teacher Peter Bain Annual Report 12 June 2024 Secondary School Reports - Tobermory High School Head Teacher Shelly Carmichael Annual Report 12 June 2024 John of Lorn Bequest - Applications Legal and Regulatory Support As required Cut off for applications * 12 June 2024 Supporting Communities Fund Applications Rona Gold/Kirsty McLuckie Chief Executive Annual Report 12 June 2024 Area Committee Workplan Melissa Stewart For updating Page 118
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE LEGAL & REGULATORY SUPPORT 13 September 2023 JOHN OF LORN BEQUEST AWARD RECOMMENDATIONS 1.0 APPLICATIONS 1.1 This report gives Members information regarding a number of applications that have been received and processed for support from the John of Lorn Bequest. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee are asked to consider the number of awards made since June 2023. 3.0 DETAIL 3.1 The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee on 09 September 2020 agreed new distribution arrangements for the John of Lorn Bequest, which had been established to support ‘poor persons resident in the Burgh of Oban’. In order to be considered for an award applicants must: 3.1.1 be in receipt of a qualifying benefit (Jobseekers Allowance, Employment Support Allowance, Income Support, or Universal Credit) and for those people who are employed/self-employed, they must be in receipt of some amount of Universal Credit as well (a nil payment due to deductions for earned income would mean they do not qualify); 3.1.2 live within the Burgh of Oban; and 3.1.3 be over the age of 16. 3.2 Furthermore, it was agreed that successful individual applicants would receive £50 while those applying on behalf of their family would receive £100. 3.3 The Area Committee on 14 September 2022 agreed to delegate to the Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support or officers nominated by him, in consultation with the Chair, the authority to make awards from the John of Lorn Bequest using the criteria agreed in September 2020 and that reports be submitted to subsequent Area Committees to update trustees on awards made under this delegation. 3.4 Prior to this delegation those in need of support could wait up to 14 weeks for payment. Applications are now processed on receipt with payments made once applicants submit their banking details. 3.5 A total of 12 applications have been received since the June 2023 meeting of the Page 119 Agenda Item 12a
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Area Committee. Officers, in consultation with the Chair have confirmed awards for 7 family and 3 individual applicants, with a total of £850 being awarded to individuals living within the Burgh. 3.6 A total of 2 applications have been refused. Applications will only be refused if the applicant has either received a grant this calendar year or they live out with the Burgh of Oban. Details of each application can be found at appendix 1. 3.7 The total funds available for distribution from the John of Lorn Bequest at the time of preparing this report is around £7k. 4.0 CONCLUSION 4.1 Members are asked to consider the applications that have received support from the John of Lorn Bequest. 5.0 IMPLICATIONS 5.1 Policy None 5.2 Financial None, the Council acts as trustee for the Fund, it does not represent assets of the Council. However, there is a risk that the Council would have to repay the Trust if an objection was raised as to the use of the funds. 5.3 Legal Area Committees, as Trustees, must ensure that the distribution arrangements comply with the terms of the funds, failure to do so would result in the Council being liable. 5.4 HR None 5.5 Fairer Scotland Duty None 5.5.1 Equalities – protected characteristics None 5.5.2 Socio-economic Duty None 5.5.3 Islands None 5.6 Climate change None 5.7 Risk None 5.8 Customer Service None Douglas Hendry - Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support Policy Lead – Councillor Alastair Redman August 2023 For further information contact: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager Tel. No: 01436 658717 Page 120
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Email: Stuart.Mclean@argyll-bute.gov.uk APPENDICES: Appendix 1: Table of applications Page 121
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Document is Restricted Page 123 Agenda Item 12bNOT FOR PUBLICATION by virtue of paragraph(s) 6 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government(Scotland) Act 1973
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