Agenda Document Pack - Hamilton Area Committee - 19/03/2025
South Lanarkshire Council · 19 March 2025
Back to Hamilton Area Committee — 19 March 2025 and its agenda
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Wednesday, 05 March 2025 Dear Councillor Hamilton Area Committee The Members listed below are requested to attend a meeting of the above Committee to be held as follows:- Date: Wednesday, 19 March 2025 Time: 14:00 Venue: Hybrid - Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton, ML3 0AA The business to be considered at the meeting is listed overleaf. Yours sincerely Paul Manning Chief Executive Members Allan Falconer (Chair), Mo Razzaq (Depute Chair), Andy Carmichael, Maureen Chalmers, Ross Clark, Maureen Devlin, Colin Dewar, Mary Donnelly, Celine Handibode, Graeme Horne, Martin Hose, Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Gavin Keatt, Kenny McCreary, Lesley McDonald, Mark McGeever, Davie McLachlan, Richard Nelson, John Ross, Bert Thomson, Helen Toner 1
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BUSINESS 1 Declaration of Interests 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting Minutes of the meeting of the Hamilton Area Committee held on 18 December 2024 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 3 - 6 Item(s) for Noting 3 Education Scotland Report - Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class Report dated 17 February 2025 by the Interim Director (Education Resources). (Copy attached) 7 - 14 4 Employment Land and Property Market Analysis Report Report dated 11 February 2025 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 15 - 22 5 Housing and Technical Resources Participatory Budgeting Report dated 4 March 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 23 - 30 6 Update on Town Centres – Hamilton Masterplan Report dated 4 March 2025 by the Executive Director (Community Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 31 - 36 7 Forward Programme for Future Meetings Report dated 12 February 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). Copy attached) 37 - 40 Item(s) for Decision 8 Community Grant Applications Report dated 26 February 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 41 - 44 Urgent Business 9 Urgent Business Any other items of business which the Chair decides are urgent. For further information, please contact:- Clerk Name: Lynne Hamilton Clerk Telephone: 07385370044 Clerk Email: lynn.hamilton2@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 2
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HAMILTON AREA COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via MS Teams and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 18 December 2024 Chair: Councillor Allan Falconer Councillors Present: Councillor Andy Carmichael, Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Councillor Ross Clark, Councillor Maureen Devlin, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Celine Handibode, Councillor Martin Hose, Councillor Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Councillor Gavin Keatt, Councillor Kenny McCreary, Councillor Lesley McDonald, Councillor Davie McLachlan, Councillor Mo Razzaq (Depute), Councillor John Ross, Councillor Bert Thomson, Councillor Helen Toner Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Mary Donnelly, Councillor Graeme Horne, Councillor Mark McGeever, Councillor Richard Nelson Attending: Finance and Corporate Resources G Booth, Finance Manager (Strategy); L Hamilton, Administration Officer; A Norris, Administration Assistant Also Attending: Routes to Work South S Barr, Chief Executive; N Mcnaughtan, Deputy Chief Executive 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of the Hamilton Area Committee held on 9 October 2024 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 3 Routes to Work South Presentation S Barr, Chief Executive and N Mcnaughtan, Deputy Chief Executive of Routes to Work South (RTWS) gave a presentation on the work of RTWS. RTWS was a registered charity and an arms length external organisation (ALEO) of South Lanarkshire Council and was committed to:- alleviating poverty creating opportunities developing skills and knowledge supporting the people of South Lanarkshire to gain and sustain employment supporting local businesses to grow and develop 2 3
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Details were provided on the following aspects of RTWS:- the vison of a South Lanarkshire with strong communities where people’s potential and abilities were recognised and valued the mission to make a lasting difference that promoted opportunity, created choice and enabled change the delivery of inclusive person-centred services that were flexible to the changing needs of RTWS clients the value added to the local economy in the last 10 years The presentation provided detailed information in relation to South Lanarkshire Works which included:- the South Lanarkshire Employability Partnership learning, training, and skills development Adult and Youth Employability Services shared objectives the future of employability The RTWS Annual Impact Report 2023/2024 was circulated to members for information. S Barr and N Mcnaughtan responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the presentation and, where information was not immediately available, undertook to provide this to the relevant members. S Barr and N Mcnaughtan were thanked for the informative presentation. The Committee decided: that the presentation be noted. Councillor Chalmers joined the meeting during this item of business 4 Common Good Update Report A report dated 18 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted providing an update on the Hamilton Common Good fund. The Common Good compromised a fund of money, assets or both, which was administered by a Scottish local authority in respect of each former Burgh within the local authority area. Common Good property was owned by the local authority and administered separately from other local authority assets for accounting purposes. The Common Good funds held within South Lanarkshire Council were Lanark, Biggar, Hamilton, and Rutherglen. Finance Services administered the Common Good Account and accounts were prepared on an annual basis, as part of the Council’s year end process. The position on the Hamilton Common Good Account at 31 March 2024 was detailed in Appendix 1 to the report and showed that the fund had cash balances amounting to £0.596 million. The Hamilton Common Good Fund also held assets and those were detailed in Appendix 2 to the report. Expenditure was incurred on the upkeep of Hamiton Common Good and cash balances available could be considered for spend on specific projects. Income was generated from the rent of particular assets. A summary of the Income and Expenditure for 2023/2024 was shown in Table 1 in paragraph 7.3 of the report. The Finance Manager (Strategy) advised that there was a typographical error in Table 1 and that the £0.098 million was a net surplus for the year and not a net deficit. 4
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Decisions on the Common Good Accounts were taken by the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee. A report on the management of the Common Good fund was provided annually to the Hamilton Area Committee. Details were provided on repairs and maintenance incurred during 2023/2024 and the commitments for repairs and planned maintenance in 2024/2025. Section 9 of the report provided information on the Hamilton Town Centre Masterplan, which set out the strategic priorities and investment for the town centre for at least the next 15 years. A request for funding from Community and Enterprise Resources of up to £0.100 million from the Hamilton Common Good fund to facilitate the initial stage of design works for the project, had been approved at the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee on 22 May 2024. The Finance Manager (Strategy) responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report and, where information was not readily available, undertook to provide that to the relevant members. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 28 February 2024 (Paragraph 6) and Minutes of the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee of 22 May 2024 (Paragraph 12)] 5 Community Grant Applications A report dated 18 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on applications for community grant. There followed a discussion during which members debated the amounts that should be allocated to community grants. Following discussion, Councillor Falconer, seconded by Councillor Razzaq, moved that the recommendations for the community grants, as detailed at section 2.1 of the report, be approved. Councillor Clark, seconded by Councillor Dewar, moved as an amendment that the total eligible amounts applied for, rather than the officer’s recommendations for the community grants listed, be approved. On a vote being taken using the electronic voting system, 6 members voted for the amendment and 11 members voted for the motion which was declared carried. The Committee decided: that community grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: 1st Larkhall Girls’ Brigade (HA/22/24) Purpose of Grant: Equipment, administration, publicity costs, outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £350 (b) Applicant: Dalserf Village Garden Club, Larkhall (HA/24/24) Purpose of Grant: Environmental project Amount Awarded: £210 (c) Applicant: Hamilton Bowling Club Winter Section (HA/25/24) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £300 [Reference: Minutes of 14 August 2024 (Paragraph 5)] 5
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6 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 6
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 19 March 2025 Report by: Interim Executive Director (Education Resources) Subject: Education Scotland Report - Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise of the outcome of the inspection Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class by Education Scotland inspectors [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Education Scotland report on Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class was inspected in November 2024 as part of a national sample of primary education. 3.2. As part of the revised approach to inspection, the Education Scotland inspectors evaluated the leadership of change, learning teaching and assessment, ensuring wellbeing, inclusion and equality and raising attainment and achievement in the Primary School. In the Nursery class, the Education Scotland inspectors evaluated the leadership of change, learning teaching and assessment, ensuring wellbeing, inclusion and equality and securing children’s progress. 3.3. The inspection team analysed questionnaires issued to parents, pupils and to all staff. Inspectors observed class lessons and interviewed groups of pupils, including the pupil council, and staff. Members of the inspection team also talked to parents/carers and children and worked closely with the headteacher and staff. 3.4. The report by Education Scotland was published on 21 January 2025. 4. Finding of HM inspectors 4.1. Education Scotland made comment under the following headings:- 4.1.1 School Leadership of change Learning, teaching and assessment Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion Raising attainment and achievement 3 7
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4.1.2 Nursery Leadership of change Learning, teaching and assessment Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion Securing children’s progress 4.2. The particular strengths of the school and the nursery class were identified as follows:- the highly effective leadership of the headteacher. She leads a passionate team who work very well together to create a vibrant learning environment across the nursery class and school. Children and their families feel welcomed and valued within the school community articulate, friendly and empathetic children who are proud of their school community. Children are gaining a range of valuable skills and attributes through their involvement in a wide range of experiences within and beyond the playroom and classroom the highly inclusive learning environment built on positive, nurturing relationships. This helps to create a calm and welcoming nursery and school where children thrive the quality of partnerships across the nursery class and school. Partners are supporting the work of the school by helping staff to strengthen the relationships with families and the community practitioners, teachers and all staff work very well as a team to help children learn and achieve. They engage in meaningful professional learning to develop their practice. This is ensuring all children make very good progress in their learning 4.3. Education Scotland identified the following areas for continued improvement:- continue to build on the most effective practice to plan learning experiences that promote independence, creativity and curiosity continue to develop the playroom and outdoor space in the nursery as a literacy and numeracy rich environment 4.4. The evaluations for the school were awarded were as follows:- Table 1 As well as welcoming the strengths of the school, it should be noted that the areas for continued improvement are already being incorporated into the school’s improvement planning. Quality indicators for the primary school Evaluation Leadership of change Very good Learning, teaching and assessment Very good Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion Very good Raising attainment and achievement Very good 8
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Table 2 4.5. Education Scotland have intimated that they are confident that the school will be able to take forward the areas for improvement and will make no more visits in connection with this report. The school are in a strong position to be able to raise levels of attainment with a particular focus on closing the poverty related attainment gap. 4.6. Additional inspection evidence can be accessed by clicking the following web link:- HMIe Netherburn Primary and nursery class 5. Employee Implications 5.1. None 6. Financial Implications 6.1. None 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. None 8. Other Implications 8.1. There are no direct risks associated with this report which is provided for information only. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. There is no requirement to carry out an assessment in terms of the proposals contained within this report. 9.2. The content of Education Scotland reports is shared with parents and discussed at Parent Council meetings. Anne Donaldson Interim Executive Director (Education Resources) 17 February 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Education and learning: inspiring learners, transforming learning, strengthening partnerships Previous References None Quality indicators for the nursery class Evaluation Leadership of change Very good Learning, teaching and assessment Good Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion Very good Securing children’s progress Good 9
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List of Background Papers Education Scotland Report of Netherburn Primary School and nursery class Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact-: Lynn Sherry, Head of Education (Support Services and School Estate) Tel: 01698 454475 E-mail: lynn.sherry@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 10
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1 | Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8523320 © Crown Copyright 21 January 2025 Dear Parent/Carer In November 2024, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland and the Care Inspectorate visited Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class. During our visit, we talked to parents/carers and children and worked closely with the headteacher and staff. The inspection team found the following strengths in the school’s work. • The highly effective leadership of the headteacher. She leads a passionate team who work very well together to create a vibrant learning environment across the nursery class and school. Children and their families feel welcomed and valued within the school community. • Articulate, friendly and empathetic children who are proud of their school community. Children are gaining a range of valuable skills and attributes through their involvement in a wide range of experiences within and beyond the playroom and classroom. • The highly inclusive learning environment built on positive, nurturing relationships. This helps to create a calm and welcoming nursery and school where children thrive. • The quality of partnerships across the nursery class and school. Partners are supporting the work of the school by helping staff to strengthen the relationships with families and the community. • Practitioners, teachers and all staff work very well as a team to help children learn and achieve. They engage in meaningful professional learning to develop their practice. This is ensuring all children make very good progress in their learning. The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from South Lanarkshire Council. • Continue to build on the most effective practice to plan learning experiences that promote independence, creativity and curiosity. • Continue to develop the playroom and outdoor space in the nursery as a literacy and numeracy rich environment. 3 11
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2 | Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8523320 © Crown Copyright We gathered evidence to enable us to evaluate the school’s work using four quality indicators from How good is our school? (4th edition) and How good is our early learning and childcare?. Quality indicators help schools, local authorities and inspectors to judge what is working well and what needs to be improved. Following the inspection of each school, the Scottish Government gathers details of our evaluations to keep track of how well Scottish schools are doing. Here are Education Scotland’s evaluations for Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class Quality indicators for the primary stages Evaluation Leadership of change very good Learning, teaching and assessment very good Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion very good Raising attainment and achievement very good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our school? (4th edition), Appendix 3: The six-point scale Quality indicators for the nursery class Evaluation Leadership of change very good Learning, teaching and assessment good Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion very good Securing children’s progress good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our early learning and childcare? Appendix 1: The six-point scale 12
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3 | Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8523320 © Crown Copyright We gathered evidence to enable us to evaluate the early learning and childcare setting using the quality indicators from A quality framework for daycare of children, childminding and school-aged childcare. The framework supports settings, providers and inspectors to assess what is working well and what needs to be improved. Following the inspection of each setting, the Scottish Government gathers details of our evaluations to keep track of how well early learning and childcare settings are doing. The Care Inspectorate evaluations are also used by local authorities when considering how settings are meeting the national standard for funded early learning and childcare. The Care Inspectorate’s evaluations for the early learning and childcare setting are: Detailed evaluations Evaluation Key question 1: How good is our care, play and learning? very good 1.1 Nurturing care and support very good 1.3 Play and learning very good Key question 2: How good is our setting? very good 2.2 Children experience high quality facilities very good Key question 3: How good is our leadership? very good 3.1 Quality assurance and improvement are led well very good Key question 4: How good is our staff team? very good 4.3 Staff deployment very good Requirements made by the Care Inspectorate for the early learning and childcare setting. As a result of the inspection, no requirements were made. Areas for improvement made by the Care Inspectorate for the early learning and childcare setting. As a result of the inspection, no areas for improvement were made. 13
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4 | Netherburn Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8523320 © Crown Copyright A more detailed document called Summarised Inspection Findings (SIF) will be available on the Education Scotland website at: Reports page | Inspection reports | Education Scotland. What happens next? We are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and so we will make no more visits in connection with this inspection. South Lanarkshire Council will inform parents/carers about the school’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting on the quality of its schools. Marion Carlton Jacqué Fee HM Inspector Care Inspector 14
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 19 March 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: Employment Land and Property Market Analysis Report 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of this report is to:- advise of the conclusions of the recently completed Employment Land and Property Market Analysis advise that the outcomes of these reports will inform the future economic development policy and any future investment by the Council 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the content of the report be noted. 3. Background 3.1. In March 2022, the Scottish Government published its National Strategy for Economic Transformation. The 10-year strategy provides a set of key priorities and actions with a vision of achieving a wellbeing economy that is prosperous for all the country’s people and places. A wellbeing economy is one that delivers economic prosperity across social, economic, and environmental dimensions. This includes capitalising on Scotland’s most advantageous economic opportunities such as the transition to a net zero economy and a green recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic and reducing socio- economic inequalities. 3.2. One aspect of the Strategy’s vision is for Scotland to be ‘the best place to start and grow a business’. However, Scotland falls behind other countries in terms of its productivity as too few businesses are starting-up or scaling-up, with limited access to infrastructure a recognised factor. Meanwhile, the Strategy’s inclusive growth aims will require investment in high productivity sectors. Additionally, the transition to net zero offers new market opportunities for example in energy, manufacturing and finance. Having an adequate supply of employment land and property in the correct locations is a factor in each of these aims. 3.3. To understand the South Lanarkshire employment land and property supply, Ryden LLP property consultants were appointed to provide employment land and property market analysis for South Lanarkshire. This work was implemented in 4 parts to form a suite of reports which Ryden has prepared to inform the next Local Development Plan (LDP3) and the Council’s wider planning, regeneration and property portfolio activities. The four reports, along with the overarching Summary Report consider the employment land and property markets for:- 4 15
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Hamilton, Blantyre and Larkhall Cambuslang and Rutherglen East Kilbride Clydesdale 3.4. The information used to formulate the reports has come from a range of sources including recognised electronic data sources. Site visits were also undertaken, and the views of occupiers were sought. Input was also invited from a range of public and private sector professionals from the commercial property market and drawing this data and information from multiple sources has enriched the final reports and the quality of the information contained within. 3.5. Each of the reports follows the same structure to enable comparison to be made and overarching data to be compiled and key information includes:- a strategic economic and planning policy context for the property markets core market analysis covering industrial and office property assessment of employment land and development activity a review of funding sources for employment land identification of market potential and possible actions 4. Market Potential and Analysis 4.1. Detailed reports have been produced for each of the areas detailed in paragraph 3.3 above and the following gives a broad indication of the conclusions reached in relation to the Hamilton, Blantyre and Larkhall. Further details and more extensive information is available for Hamilton, Blantyre and Larkhall the other geographical areas in the completed Ryden reports. 4.2. Hamilton, Blantyre and Larkhall The Hamilton market area that includes Blantyre and Larkhall contains 4.06 million square feet (sq.ft.) of industrial stock which represents 27% of all industrial stock in South Lanarkshire, making it one of the principal market areas within the local authority area. The level of industrial stock has fallen since 2010 as the result of large factory demolitions with the land now being used for residential. The majority of industrial stock in the Hamilton market area was built in the 1980s and 1990s which means there is an issue of looming obsolescence, notably in Blantyre which is a key location for local businesses. In making a geographical assessment of the distribution of industrial employment land within the Hamilton area 3 sites totaling 0.76 hectares (1.88 acres) are in Hamilton. This accounts for:- Hamilton market area 5% of the allocated land area, and less than 1% of allocated land in South Lanarkshire two sites totalling 4.61 hectares (11.39 acres) in Blantyre, which accounts for 32% of the allocated land area in the Hamilton market area, and 1% of allocated land in South Lanarkshire the remaining 4 sites are in Larkhall total and 9 hectares (22.24 acres), accounting for 63% of the allocated land area in the Hamilton market area, and 3% of allocated land in South Lanarkshire the site at South Larkhall, Canderside alone accounts for 42% of the Hamilton market area’s allocated land 16
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4.3. Reflective of wider regional markets, there is low industrial floorspace availability in the Hamilton market area of 5% (vacancy rate). Small units (under 5,000 sq.ft) in Hamilton and Blantyre appear to be particularly in demand as reflected by recent take-up and enquiries however there is a lack of choice for occupiers with very limited supply of this nature on the market. While there is a case for new development, the economics of this have faltered recently. 4.4. The geographical split of industrial take-up in terms of floorspace can be summarised in percentage terms and by the numbers of properties taken-up as follows:- East Kilbride had 56% (35 on average each year) Hamilton had 22% (15 deals) Cambuslang/ Rutherglen had 16% (10 deals) Clydesdale had 6% (4 deals) 4.5. The office market is in the post-pandemic process of moving to smaller, better-quality offices to meet hybrid working requirements. The Hamilton market area accounts for 55% of South Lanarkshire’s total office floorspace. Its vacancy rate is 19%, which is much higher than the local authority rate of 9.9%, however, this can be explained by the Ochil House building at Hamilton International which offers 80,000sq.ft of floorspace over 4 floors and this skews this vacancy rate considerably. Much of this stock is relatively modern and includes sizeable provision within Hamilton town centre and Hamilton International Park as well as more flexible business centre type accommodation. There is sufficient choice of stock available on the market and, therefore, no demand for new build accommodation unless occupier led. 4.6. The geographic split of office property across South Lanarkshire is as follows:- Hamilton has 44% of the office stock East Kilbride has 38% Cambuslang and Rutherglen have 14% Clydesdale has 4% 4.7. Take-up of employment land across South Lanarkshire is correlated to the supply coming to the market. The analysis carried out as part of the Report identifies a requirement to support this sector and the bringing forward of fully serviced sites, most likely for owner-occupied development though potentially also for Council direct development should be considered. 4.8. By area the overall employment land supply is distributed as follows:- East Kilbride has 32 sites totalling 66.20 hectares Hamilton has 9 sites totalling 14.37 hectares Cambuslang/ Rutherglen has 18 sites totalling 34.49 hectares Clydesdale has 12 sites totalling 215.20 hectares, with Poneil accounting for the vast majority of this 4.9. South Lanarkshire Wide The Ryden summary report brings together the research and findings of the four localised reports. Where required it updates underlying information to present a contemporary, South Lanarkshire-wide market picture. 17
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4.10. The industrial property market in South Lanarkshire is extensive, reflecting the area’s role and connectivity with the wider conurbation. Larger towns with extensive employment land and property include East Kilbride, Hamilton & Blantyre, and Cambuslang & Rutherglen, as well as smaller settlements to the South. 4.11. South Lanarkshire’s current stock of industrial property is estimated at 15.9 million sq.ft. This industrial stock includes large facilities such as TATA steelworks in Cambuslang (441,000 sq.ft., vacant), Coca Cola (323,000 sq.ft.) and Sainsbury’s Distribution Depot in East Kilbride (274,000 sq.ft.). 4.12. South Lanarkshire’s principal industrial development eras were the 1970s (20% of stock), 1980s (25%) and 1990s (17%). This means that more than half of the local authority area’s industrial stock is at least 44 years old. While age is not the only guide to property obsolescence, detailed analysis within Ryden’s subregional reports identifies at-risk stock, as well as instances of industrial properties being refurbished. Energy performance is an increasing concern both in terms of carbon emissions and energy costs. 4.13. As with West Central Scotland as a whole, South Lanarkshire has low industrial property availability, currently sitting at 3.8%. At this level of vacancy, it is likely that occupiers will experience restricted choice of premises in terms of locations, sizes, specification, and quality / modernity. The vacancy rate has fallen from a high of 9.1% recorded in 2013 which was the tail-end of the weak market following the global financial crisis. 4.14. South Lanarkshire has an office availability rate of 12%. This is marginally above the 11% office availability rate for Glasgow City Region and has been rising recently. The current office supply of c. 443,000 sq.ft. is contained within 43 offices, however, the supply is very adaptable to sub-divisible and flexible options in serviced offices/ business centres. This being the case the Council will focus available resources around the industrial sector rather than office provision. 4.15. The market assessment reports provide a summary of the existing employment supply and demand across the Council area. The reports also identify opportunities and priority areas where South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) and it’s Partners could most effectively focus future investment. 4.16. Conclusion In conclusion the Summary Report identifies a number of actions that should be pursued. These include measures and recommendations on a South Lanarkshire Wide basis as well as localised initiatives to:- stimulate the refurbishment of existing industrial stock actively encourage the creation of development ready plots look at where the Council can intervene in the market to ensure new supply of industrial and office properties 18
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5. Funding 5.1. Historically the European Union Structural Funds would have been a source of funding support but Brexit means that participation is no longer possible. Several new funding streams have, however, become available to replace the lost European Funding. This includes, at a UK level, funds related to the levelling up agenda now managed via the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Green Freeports and investment Zones and Place and Community Wealth Building and natural capital support from the Scottish Government. City Deal and Scottish Enterprise also have a role to play. 5.2. From a public sector funding perspective SLC is eligible to apply to a number of UK Government and Scottish Government funds as outlined above Efforts should be continued to produce funding applications associated with employment land, although competition is fierce and the award of funding unpredictable in this challenging economic climate. Recent changes to the structures and composition of the UK Government are also likely to have, as yet unknown implications. 5.3. Market failure is common in Scotland outside of city centres and strategic transport corridors and public sector intervention in the property market is often required in areas where market failure exists in order to support economic development. The Council will continue to pursue identified opportunities but going forward the private sector will be key to investment and supply. A strong local economy that attracts good quality tenants will ensure a healthy property market that can attract investment. 6. Next Steps and Timescale 6.1. The Summary Report recommends a number of possible interventions and recommendations, and it is intended that these will influence actions incorporated into future economic development activity. These South Lanarkshire wide priority areas and potential interventions, where external funding will require to be identified, include:- 6.1.1. Targeting existing industrial stock seek to support to landlords and occupiers to upgrade premises through incentivisation focusing direct SLC investment in stock in poorest condition and undertaking exemplar projects identifying funding source demolition and/or redevelopment of areas of obsolescence in Council owned stock 6.1.2. Serviced plots between 0.2 and 0.5 hectares development ready plots are undersupplied so monitor the supply of private sector sites bring forward sites in public ownership for development and promote via the Local development Plan and “Invest South Lanarkshire” website review the Vacant & Derelict Land supply promote the Hamilton area, with its excellent transport links and easy access to Glasgow as a sub-regional location via the “Invest South Lanarkshire” website and targeted publicity 19
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6.1.3. Monitor industrial development review and monitor the private sector to identify projects that will address the undersupply of modern units identify opportunities where selective market intervention could be provided target potential funding opportunities which would support this sector 6.1.4. Monitor the office market direct support for flexible office space reinvesting in existing Council managed office buildings monitor the loss of office stock to the supply monitor the ‘Cat A’ office market; and seek to explore alternative property management models for the office sector 6.2. All the above will have to be undertaken against the existing background of fragmented demand data and of managing existing funds within a changing funding environment. The Council will have a role to play in the delivery of many of these actions identified in the reports, although in many cases the role will be that of regulatory body with a limited direct involvement in delivery. 6.3. At the Community and Enterprise Committee of the 26 November 2024, Committee approved the adoption of the Ryden review reports as a basis to move forward and approvals relating to specific projects including funding, delivery and lead partners will be taken to the appropriate committee for approval at a future date. 6.4. Community and Enterprise Resources are looking at further opportunities at key sites including:- Canderside Larkhall Clyde Gateway owned sites at Shawfield Innovation Campus Clydebridge Steel works at Cambuslang These sites form part of the Councils bid to the Glasgow City Region, Enabling and Delivering Commercial Space Project, where funding is being sought, as part of a competitive application process, to deliver new commercial space and unlock sites for future development to attract investment and deliver economic development and maximize their potential. 6.5. Key to a successful employment sector is the marketing of South Lanarkshire. The Councils “Invest South Lanarkshire” website is now built and this will serve as an important platform for the marketing of key sites and property and serve as the gateway for private sector investors/developers to contact the Council. 7. Employee Implications 7.1. There are no employee implications through the endorsement of the review reports. 20
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8. Financial Implications 8.1. The costs for the Council in preparing the property Analysis Reports have been funded with support from the Shared Prosperity Fund. 8.2 As noted, the report identifies a number of actions and projects which will require funding. Each will be considered on an individual basis and will be subject to separate approvals. It is the intention that external funding will lead the delivery of investment. 8.3 Implementation of actions will focus on the co-ordination of activity that will largely be funded through external funding. The financial resources required to deliver the Action Plans will be considered on a project-by-project basis. In addition, the Report provides a basis to support external funding bids from a range of sources, however, it is important to note that much of the success of the plan will relate to support and investment from the private sector. 9. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 9.1. The report was prepared having regard to the existing and emerging challenges around climate change and sustainability. It is intended to complement and comply with the Council’s and wider communities’ aspirations in the area. 10. Other Implications 10.1. The risks associated with not supporting the report outcomes is that South Lanarkshire’s employment land and property sector will not have a co-ordinated approach to its response to the many challenges it faces. The performance of this sector has a significant impact on the local economy and quality of life for South Lanarkshire citizens. The Council’s reputation could also be damaged if it is not seen to actively support the sector. 11. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 11.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no Integrated Impact Assessment is required. 11.2. Consultations have been co-ordinated by Enterprise and Sustainable Development Services with a range of other Council Services who have an ongoing role in employment land and property within South Lanarkshire. This consultation and co- operation will continue throughout the duration of the initiative. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 11 February 2025 Previous References Report to the Community and Enterprise Committee - Employment Land and Property Market Analysis Report 26 November 2024 List of Background Papers None 21
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Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Values Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Ambitious, self-aware and improving Fair, open and sustainable Priorities We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress and improve Outcomes Thriving business, fair jobs and vibrant town centres Caring, connected, sustainable communities Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- John Archibald, Project Development Officer, Enterprise and Sustainable Development Services E-mail: john.archibald@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 22
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Update for Hamilton Area Committee Participatory Budgeting – Update for Area Committee Service Area Estate Improvement Budget/Housing Investment Programme Environmental Programme Lead Officer David Edgar, Area Housing Manager Stage 1: Pre-Consultation What are we asking the public for their view on (what service is it / description etc)? How much funding are we asking about? Who are we asking, How are we doing this? When are we doing this? When will we report back? Estate Improvement Budget The Estate Improvement Budget totals £40,000 and is split across the 4 housing divisions of South Lanarkshire. Each Local Housing Management Team can direct the funding towards projects or improvements highlighted as a priority by customers. Although limited in value, the budget is ideally suited for conversion to a Participatory Budgeting approach, as it often funds a number of smaller projects that have been highlighted as a priority by customers. Examples of recent exercises include customer engagement on options for the type and design of new fencing and lighting. Following discussions with local tenants, 5 projects are so far being undertaken within the Hamilton area in relation to: improving bin provision at Holyrood Street fence replacement at Albert Drive removing topsoil and grass seed at Udston Road improving access for tenants at Chriss Avenue removing weeds and bushes at Catherine’s Walk Housing Revenue Account budget for the 2023/2024 - Housing Investment Programme Engagement with tenants on the overall Housing Revenue Account budget for the 2024/2025 period, and the proposed level and focus of the Housing Investment Programme, took place as part of the annual resource budgetary consultation process. The Environmental aspect of the Housing Investment Programme (the ‘Environmental Programme’) is a significant budget area that covers a wide range of projects that seek to improve the quality and energy efficiency of the council’s domestic housing stock. Examples of projects within this budget area can include replacement doors and windows within properties, or redevelopment of communal areas in multi-storey buildings or sheltered housing facilities. Not all projects included within this budget area are suitable for inclusion of a participatory budgeting approach, however for those that are officers will ensure the required element of choice and voting opportunities are offered to customers and appropriately recorded. To date, 2 participatory budgeting projects have commenced in the Hamilton division:- Ongoing improvements at the Shawlands Crescent Gypsy/Traveller site in line with the Masterplan developed in partnership with residents Delivering internal upgrades at the Deer Park Place sheltered housing site in Hamilton 5 23
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Stage 2: Post Consultation The outcome of the PB activity What happens next? Further reporting requirements (eg required Committee approval) Estate Improvement Budget The full £10,000 from the Estate Improvement Budget has been spent so far in the Hamilton division during 2024/2025 on a range of tenant priorities. In response to feedback from tenants in Holyrood Street about the poor ground conditions leading to the bin areas not being used, ground works were undertaken to ensure refuse vehicles had safe access Following contact from local tenants in Albert Drive in Larkhall, the fence was replaced and a series of garden improvements were carried out In response to a specific request from a tenant in Udston Road, a large mound, topsoil and grass seed were removed to allow the installation of a new rear garden fence Following discussions with tenants at Chriss Avenue in Eddlewood, a section of fence was cut to improve access at the side path Following requests from tenants in Catherine’s Walk in Blantyre to the housing officer, bushes were cut back, and weeds were removed from the path Housing Revenue Account budget for the 2024/2025 - Housing Investment Programme Shawlands Crescent Gypsy/Traveller site Following consultation with residents of 18 pitches through site meetings and individual discussions, it was agreed to deliver further upgrades to the site including extending the existing amenity units and undertaking ground works to create 2 new pitches. The total costs of the projects were £203,460. Deer Park Place Sheltered Housing Residents in all properties were consulted on the internal refurbishment of the site including new communal kitchens and laundry facilities, new accessible toilets, new ceilings, lighting, flooring, wall decoration and soft furnishings. Through a series of residents’ meetings and individual discussions, tenants were presented with mood boards and design plans and voted on their preferred options. The total costs of the refurbishment at Deer Park Place were £416,797. Officers from Housing and Technical Resources will continue to take forward opportunities within Hamilton to ensure tenants and other customers can determine the outcome of budgets within the Environmental Programme and Estate Improvement Budget, with further updates provided to Committee. 24
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Housing and Technical Resources – Participatory Budgeting 2024/25 Hamilton Area Committee – March 2025 Albert Drive, Larkhall A series of garden improvements are being carried out at Albert Drive in Larkhall after being contacted by tenants. The Estate Improvement Budget is currently being used to replace the fence and carry out a range of garden improvements Albert Drive (before) 5 25
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Housing and Technical Resources – Participatory Budgeting 2024/25 Hamilton Area Committee – March 2025 Udston Road A tenant in Udston Road requested that a large mound of topsoil and grass seed were removed to allow the installation of a new rear garden fence. Udston Road (before) Udston Road (after) 26
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Housing and Technical Resources – Participatory Budgeting 2024/25 Hamilton Area Committee – March 2025 Holyrood Street Tenants in Holyrood Street had reported poor ground conditions leading to the bin areas not being used. The local Estate Improvement Budget was used to undertake ground works to ensure refuse vehicles had safe access. Holyrood Street Grounds (before) Holyrood Street Grounds (after) 27
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Housing and Technical Resources – Participatory Budgeting 2024/25 Hamilton Area Committee – March 2025 Deer Park Place Sheltered Housing - Housing Investment Programme (environmental) Residents in all properties at Deer Park Place were consulted on the internal refurbishment of the site through a series of residents meeting and individual discussions, and were given the opportunity look at mood board and design plans to vote on their preferred options. The estate improvement budget was used to provide new communal kitchens and laundry facilities, new accessible toilets, new ceilings, lighting, flooring, wall decoration and soft furnishings 28
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Housing and Technical Resources – Participatory Budgeting 2024/25 Hamilton Area Committee – March 2025 29
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 19 March 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: Update on Town Centres – Hamilton Masterplan 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] update members on the activity currently being undertaken to progress the Hamilton Masterplan [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the current activity undertaken to progress the Hamilton Masterplan be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. The nature of town centres across the UK remains in a transitional stage. The range of issues involved in the challenges town centres are facing are broad and complex. Factors such as the Covid-19 pandemic, internet shopping, growth of out-of-town shopping malls, changes in retailer’s business models and consumer expectations have resulted in a decline in town centre footfall. 3.2. Some of the issues are local and specific to individual towns, however, many are issues seen across the country influenced by wider economic patterns, consumer behaviour and corporate decisions. 3.3. Supporting our town centres remains a council priority and we continue to work closely with the appropriate groups and organisations in each town through a partnership approach to achieve our common goals. 3.4. Local communities remain supportive of their town centres and have a desire to see them thrive. The way in which they use their town centres is, however, very different to that of a generation ago. It is broadly accepted that the traditional function of a retail town centre needs to change to meet the needs and expectations of modern communities. There is, therefore, a collective need to establish a new role and function for our town centres to ensure that they can continue to thrive and remain relevant in the years ahead. 6 31
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3.5. Officers are working on a range of projects designed to help transition our town centres. These projects are closely aligned with the Scottish Government approach to town centres captured in the New Future for Scotland’s Town Centres report and action plan alongside National Planning Framework 4 which recognises the value of regeneration to transform urban places and improve wellbeing. 4. Hamilton Masterplan 4.1. As previously reported, Hamilton town centre has faced a number of challenges over recent years resulting in significant voids - especially throughout the 2 shopping centres. This change in retail dynamics led to the development of the Hamilton Town Centre Masterplan, a town centre vision led by Threesixty Architecture on behalf of the Council, which demonstrates the physical and spatial moves required to deliver a reenergised and resilient town centre. The masterplan seeks to find solutions to underperforming parts of the core town centre area. Consideration was given to the following key sites:- • Regent Shopping Centre • New Cross Shopping Centre • Former Bairds Department Store • Duke Street Car Park • Former Vogue Bingo Site • Hamilton Town Square 4.2. The Masterplan was approved by Executive Committee in February 2024. A public consultation was held in March 2024 with over 800 responses received. 5. Progress To Date 5.1. Regent Shopping Centre The Regent Shopping Centre is privately owned and held under a ground lease from the Council. In parallel with shopping centres of this size across the UK, the Centre has been underperforming in recent years and has lost key anchor tenants. Owners placed the centre on the market in December last year, and have identified a potential purchaser. It should be noted that the masterplan proposal was a large factor in purchaser interest. Officers remain in dialogue with all parties and continue to work with owners to realise the masterplan vision on this site. 5.2. New Cross Shopping Centre The New Cross Shopping Centre went into administration and, as it was held under a ground lease, came back to the Council in 2021. The Centre is not commercially viable and has maintenance requirements. One tenant currently remains operational in the centre. Officers have instructed investigative survey work on the centre as the first stage of works here for a delivery model. The masterplan vision shows a housing development here and the reopening of Chapel Street. Contrary to local reporting, there is currently no demolition strategy in place and no demolition timescales available. Progress on this matter will be reported to Committee in due course. 5.3. It should be noted that the masterplan vision for the New Cross does not include Quarry Place which will remain a key part of the commercial spine of the town centre alongside Quarry Street. 32
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5.4. Former Bairds Building This building was owned by Wetherspoons who had progressed plans to convert it into a public house. Unfortunately, due to business plan changes and alongside many similar buildings across the UK, Wetherspoons aborted these plans and placed the building back on the market. The building is of interest to a number of parties and officers are involved in discussions on the regeneration of this site. 5.5. Duke Street Car Park The masterplan shows a new car park alongside new student/hotel accommodation on this site. This project will be phased into the masterplan delivery schedule in due course. 5.6. Former Vogue Bingo Site This site currently has interest from social housing developers and it is hoped that a development will progress in due course. In the interim, structural survey work is being carried out and repairs will be instructed on the frontage as required. 5.7. Hamilton Town Square This project was granted £100,000 from the Common Good Fund at the May 2024 Finance and Corporate Resources Committee to progress to the next level. A tender exercise is currently underway to appoint a contractor to progress the design and carry out feasibility studies. 6. Other Town Centre Activity 6.1. Hamilton BID Liaison Officers continue to work closely with Hamilton Business Improvement District (BID) to support town centre initiatives aimed at driving footfall to Hamilton. The BID is an important link between the Council and town centre businesses and officers attend monthly meetings to provide support and work in partnership with the business community. 6.2. Quarry Street Reopening A key project generated from BID liaison was the reopening of Quarry Street to traffic as requested by the business community. After an 18-month trial the project has been deemed successful and as such will remain in force. 6.3. Spring Clean A spring deep clean of the town centre is scheduled to enhance the environment. 7. Communications 7.1. As noted at the Masterplan consultation, there would be a relatively lengthy period after the consultation whereby officers would be working with partners to further develop Masterplan proposals. Many of the discussions and developments to date are commercially sensitive, and as such officers have been unable to report on these matters. 7.2. Officers attend regular meetings with Hamilton BID and provide regular updates where appropriate. Information is disseminated to the business community through the BID. In addition, officers have held a drop-in session with businesses to answer questions on Masterplan progress. 7.3. A communication strategy is currently in development to circulate information to both the local and business community as the Masterplan progresses. 33
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8. Additional Funding 8.1. £8 million was granted in the 2025/2026 Council budget for works towards the Hamilton Masterplan. This is a welcome opportunity to accelerate the progress of the masterplan. Officers are currently working up a project schedule which will make best use of this funding within the given timescales. A report on proposals for additional budget spend will be brought to Community and Enterprise Committee in May 2025 after consultation with local members and other relevant stakeholders. 9. Next Steps and Timescales 9.1. Officers will continue to develop Masterplan proposals and seek opportunities for the development of Hamilton town centre. 9.2. As noted above, officers are developing a project schedule to make best use of the additional funding granted to the masterplan and will report to committee in due course. 10. Employee Implications 10.1. There are no employee implications as a result of the proposals set out in this report. The development and implementation of the masterplan will be led by officers within Enterprise and Sustainable Development Services in consultation with officers across Planning, Roads, Property, Housing, Legal, Finance and Procurement Services. 11. Financial Implications 11.1. There are currently no additional financial implications associated with this report. Officers will seek to maximise funding available and seek additional funding as required. 12. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 12.1. Works to take forward the vision of the Hamilton Masterplan and associated development has sustainability at the forefront and projects will be taken forward in line with the Council’s sustainability objectives. Any site demolition strategies will focus on recycling and reusing materials wherever possible. In addition, there is a focus on sustainable development throughout the individual projects with consideration of initiatives such as district heating. 13. Other Implications 13.1. The risks associated with not supporting the Masterplan is that Hamilton town centre will face further decline if no action is taken. This will result in a process of managed decline rather than investment for growth. 13.2. The Council could face reputational damage if it is not seen to actively support and encourage investment in the town centre. 13.3. Redevelopment of the town centre allows the council to respond to the demands for both affordable housing and the continued demand for private sector housing. 34
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14. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 14.1. Integrated Impact Assessments will be undertaken as the project is developed. 14.2. The Hamilton Masterplan consultation was held in March 2024. Officers were available in person in the Regent Shopping Centre for 3 weeks and an online consultation was open for 6 weeks. Feedback for the project was largely positive. Further consultation will be undertaken on individual parts of the masterplan projects at the appropriate points. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 4 March 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Values Ambitious, self-aware and improving Fair, open and sustainable Priorities We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress and improve Outcomes Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Thriving business, fair jobs and vibrant town centres Previous References None List of Background Papers • Hamilton Town Centre Masterplan – Executive Committee, 21 February 2024 • Common Good Update – Finance and Corporate Resources Committee, 22 May 2024 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Victoria Nelson, Project Manager, Enterprise and Sustainable Development E-mail: victoria.nelson@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 35
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 19 March 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Forward Programme for Future Meetings 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise members of the forward programme for the meetings of the Hamilton Area Committee to 17 December 2025 invite members to suggest topics for inclusion in the Committee’s forward programme [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the report and the outline forward programme for the meetings of the Hamilton Area Committee to 17 December 2025, attached as an appendix to the report, be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Following discussion with the Chairs of the 4 Area Committees, it was agreed that a list of items proposed for consideration at subsequent meetings be provided to afford an opportunity for members to inform future agendas. The outline forward programme for Hamilton Area Committee to 17 December 2025 is attached, for members’ information, as an appendix to the report. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. There are no financial implications. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability or Environmental implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. There are no risk implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. The report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 7 37
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8.2. There was no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 12 February 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References None List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Lynne Hamilton, Administration Officer Tel: 07385 370044 E-mail:- Lynne.Hamilton2@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 38
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APPENDIX HAMILTON AREA COMMITTEE OUTLINE FORWARD PROGRAMME Meeting Date Item Responsibility 4 June 2025 Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Presentation SFRS Education Resources Participatory Budgeting Education Resources Care and Repairs Lanarkshire Presentation Care and Repair Playscheme Grants Finance and Corporate Resources Community Grants Finance and Corporate Resources Forward Programme for Future Meetings Admin Services 3 September 2025 Community Justice Social Work Resources Community Justice – Unpaid Work Initiatives Presentation Community Justice General Housing Update Housing and Technical Resources Community Grants Finance and Corporate Resources Forward Programme for Future Meetings Admin Services 12 November 2025 Community Planning Update Chief Executive’s Service Police Scotland Presentation Police Scotland Community Asset Transfer Update Housing and Technical Resources Community Grants Finance and Corporate Resources Forward Programme for Future Meetings Admin Services Note:- Education Scotland Inspection Reports will come to Committee as and when they are available 39
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. Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 19 March 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Community Grant Applications 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to: - [purpose] request approval for the allocation of community grants to 7 community groups in the Hamilton Area Committee area from the 2024/2025 community grant budget request authorisation for the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources), in consultation with the Chair, to approve further community grant applications meeting the relevant criteria in the period to 31 March from the 2024/2025 budget 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that community grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: 78th Lanarkshire (3rd Blantyre) Scout Group (HA/26/24) Purpose of Grant: Entrance fees Identified Community Benefits: Our children and young people thrive Estimated Cost: £750 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £500 Recommendation: £350 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (b) Applicant: Fife Court Activity Club, Bothwell (HA/27/24) Purpose of Grant: Start-up grant – Equipment and materials Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £1,000 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £1,000 Recommendation: £300 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee 8 41
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(c) Applicant: The Machan Trust, Larkhall (HA/28/24) Purpose of Grant: Equipment Identified Community Benefits: Our children and young people thrive Estimated Cost: £1,000 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £1,000 Recommendation: £600 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (d) Applicant: Trinity Church Woman’s Group, Hamilton (HA/29/24) Purpose of Grant: Outing Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £505 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £300 Recommendation: £300 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (e) Applicant: Grow Uddingston (HA/30/24) Purpose of Grant: Environmental project Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £800 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £800 Recommendation: £480 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (f) Applicant: Cadzow Community Corps, Hamilton (HA/31/24) Purpose of Grant: Equipment and materials Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £522 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £522 Recommendation: £315 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (g) Applicant: Saffronhall Art Club (HA/33/24) Purpose of Grant: Outing and publicity costs Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £350 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £350 Recommendation: £300 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (2) that the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources), in consultation with the Chair, be authorised to approve any further community grant applications meeting the relevant criteria in the period to 31 March 2025 from the 2024/2025 budget. 3. Background 3.1. The Council operates a community grants scheme to support local constituted community groups and voluntary organisations. All applications require to be supported by a constitution, audited accounts or annual income and expenditure accounts, a bank statement, and confirmation that the group/organisation will adhere to the conditions of the grant award. Applications are invited continually throughout the year. 42
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3.2. The main aims of the community grants scheme are to:- fund activities and projects which bring community benefit involve people in the community by bringing them together to enjoy educational, recreational, leisure and other community activities or to improve the local environment 3.3. Support can be provided for a range of activities including administration and publicity costs, purchase of equipment and materials, annual outings and entrance fees, start-up costs and special events. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. None. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. The current position of the community for the Hamilton Area Committee area in 2024/2025 is as follows: - Total allocation for Community Grants £25,750 Grants previously allocated £ 7,579 Community grants allocated in this report £ 2,645 Remaining balance £15,526 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability, or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. The risk to the Council is that grant funding is not utilised for the purpose of which it was intended. This risk is mitigated by internal controls including audit procedures and conditions of grant agreement. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function, or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. All the necessary consultation with the community groups has taken place. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 26 February 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes ♦ Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent ♦ We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places ♦ Caring, connected, sustainable communities 43
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Previous References Hamilton Area Committee – 18 December 2024 List of Background Papers Individual application forms Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Geraldine Wilkinson, Clerical Assistant Ext: 4818 (Tel: 01698 454818) E-mail: geraldine.wilkinson@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 44