Agenda Document Pack - Hamilton Area Committee - 20/09/2023
South Lanarkshire Council · 20 September 2023
Back to Hamilton Area Committee — 20 September 2023 and its agenda
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Tuesday, 12 September 2023 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, 20 September 2023 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 Cleland Sneddon 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 21 June 2023 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 3 - 8 Item(s) for Noting 3 Local Policing Annual Update Presentation by Chief Inspector Graeme McLaughlin and Inspector Paul Doyle, Police Scotland 4 Education Scotland Report – Hamilton School for the Deaf Report dated 29 August 2023 by the Executive Director (Education Resources). (Copy attached) 9 - 14 5 Update on Town Centres Report dated 4 September 2023 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 15 - 20 6 South Lanarkshire Community Planning Partnership – Area Community Partnership Update Report dated 29 August 2023 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 21 - 24 Item(s) for Decision 7 Community Grant Applications Report dated 4 September 2023 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 25 - 28 Urgent Business 8 Urgent Business Any other items of business which the Chair decides are urgent. For further information, please contact:- Clerk Name: Elizabeth-Anne McGonigle Clerk Telephone: 07385403101 Clerk Email: elizabeth-anne.mcgonigle@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 2
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HAMILTON AREA COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via Confero and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 21 June 2023 Chair: Councillor Allan Falconer Councillors Present: Councillor Andy Carmichael, Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Councillor Ross Clark, Councillor Maureen Devlin, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Mary Donnelly, Councillor Celine Handibode, Councillor Cal Johnston-Dempsey, 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 Graeme Horne, Councillor Martin Hose, Councillor Gavin Keatt, Councillor Mark McGeever, Councillor Richard Nelson Attending: Education Resources S Bokas, Headteacher, Quarter Primary School; L Callender, Headteacher, David Livingstone Memorial Primary School; L Mitchell, Quality Improvement Officer/Lead Officer, Excellence and Equity Finance and Corporate Resources S Jessup, Administration Assistant; E-A McGonigle, Administration Officer Also Attending: Scottish Fire and Rescue Service C Burns, Station Commander; J Quinn, Area Commander Chair’s Opening Remarks The Chair advised that, in terms of Standing Order No 4(c), he had agreed to a request for an item of urgent business which would be dealt with after agenda item 3. Order of Business The Committee decided: that the items of business be dealt with in the order minuted below. 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 26 April 2023 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 2 3
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3 Scottish Fire and Rescue Service – 2022/2023 Annual Performance and Activity Report C Burns, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) gave a presentation on the Hamilton Area Performance and Activity Report 2022/2023. The presentation provided performance information covering the period 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023, with a comparison against the same period from the previous 2 years. Information was provided on:- ♦ deliberate primary fires ♦ deliberate secondary fires ♦ accidental dwelling fires ♦ accidental ‘other’ building fires ♦ fatal fire casualties ♦ non-fatal fire casualties (excluding precautionary check-up) ♦ special service (road traffic collisions) ♦ special service (fatal and non-fatal casualties) ♦ false alarms (malicious false alarms and unwanted fire alarm signals (non-domestic)) C Burns and J Quinn responded to members’ questions and C Burns was thanked for his informative presentation. The Committee decided: that the presentation be noted. Councillor McLachlan entered the meeting during consideration of the above item of business 4 Item of Urgent Business – SFRS Strategic Service Review – Hamilton Fire Station J Quinn, SFRS, provided a verbal update on the Strategic Service Review Programme that had recently been initiated by the Service. In November 2022, the SFRS Chief Officer spoke at a meeting of the Scottish Parliament’s Justice Committee around the financial challenges presented by the Scottish Government’s Resource Spending Review and flat cash settlement budget and the impact on the Service. The Chief Officer publicly acknowledged that the budget challenges would have an impact on the operational delivery model. As part of the SFRS Strategic Service Review, appliances were being removed from 10 fire stations across Scotland, including one in Hamilton. This would be a temporary withdrawal over a 12 month period and the impact of the removal of fire engines would be scrutinised during this time. The following points were highlighted on the changes being made to the response model as part of the Review:- changes were data-driven and based on risk and demand the affected fire stations had been identified following a robust review of data the safety of staff and the local community remained a priority fire cover would always be maintained and the Service would continue to attend every emergency as a national Service, appliances and personnel would be moved from other stations whenever required the Service would work to mobilise the closest and most appropriate fire appliance the temporary removal of appliances would take place in September 2023 the position would be reviewed and monitored moving forward 4
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if any changes were to be made permanent, a full public consultation would be required a High Reach Strategy was running alongside the Review to reduce, on a phased basis, the number of vehicles that could operate at height J Quinn also briefed the Committee on the SFRS Consultation on the Future of Leadhills Fire Station. Views were being sought from members of the public and stakeholder partners around the full reinstatement of operations or the closure of the station. J Quinn, having responded to members’ questions and concerns, was thanked for the update. Councillor McLachlan requested that his grave concerns about the temporary removal of one appliance from Hamilton Fire Station be recorded. The Committee decided: that the update be noted. Councillor Razzaq entered the meeting during consideration of the above item of business 5 Education Scotland Report – David Livingstone Memorial Primary School A report dated 22 May 2023 by the Executive Director (Education Resources) was submitted on the outcome of the inspection of David Livingstone Memorial Primary School and Nursery Class, Blantyre made by Education Scotland. The inspection had taken place in February 2023 as part of a national sample of primary education and the inspection letter reporting on the findings had been published on 16 May 2023. A number of particular strengths of the school had been highlighted in the inspection letter. The areas for improvement, agreed with the school and education authority, had been incorporated into the school’s improvement plan and parents would be informed of progress. The school had been identified as having practice worth sharing more widely by Education Scotland and this was detailed at section 4.5 of the report. Education Scotland had intimated that they would make no further visits in connection with this inspection. L Callender, Headteacher and L Mitchell, Lead Officer, having spoken on key aspects of the report and having responded to members’ questions, were congratulated on the positive inspection report. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. 6 Education Scotland Report – Quarter Primary School A report dated 30 May 2023 by the Executive Director (Education Resources) was submitted on the outcome of the inspection of Quarter Primary School and Nursery Class, Quarter made by Education Scotland. The inspection had taken place in April 2023 as part of a national sample of primary education and the inspection letter reporting on the findings had been published on 30 May 2023. A number of particular strengths of the school had been highlighted in the inspection letter. The areas for improvement, agreed with the school and education authority, had been incorporated into the school’s improvement plan and parents would be informed of progress. Education Scotland had intimated that they would make no further visits in connection with this inspection. 5
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S Bokas, Headteacher and L Mitchell, Lead Officer, having spoken on key aspects of the report and having responded to members’ questions, were congratulated on the positive inspection report. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. Councillor Chalmers left during consideration of this item and Councillors Carmichael and McDonald left the meeting after consideration of the above item of business 7 Participatory Budgeting – Education Resources - Pupil Equity Funding A report dated 11 May 2023 by the Executive Director (Education Resources) was submitted on Participatory Budgeting (PB) in relation to Pupil Equity Funding (PEF). As an example of good practice, David Livingstone Memorial Primary School’s PB work was attached as Appendix 1 to the report. David Livingstone Primary School demonstrated value and commitment to PB, pupil voice and the voice of their stakeholders. Examples of the voice of their stakeholders centred around supporting families affected by poverty and the cost of the school day. Choices of spend included widening access to extra- curricular experiences, providing homework packs, buying items to support the school’s rake and take initiative and widening access to school trips. It was hoped that pupil wellbeing and attendance as well as engagement of pupils affected by poverty at after-school clubs and sporting events would improve. A further impact section would be added to this case study at the end of the academic year to show the benefit this activity had to the most vulnerable learners. Schools continued to allocate a minimum of 5% of their PEF to PB year on year. Updated guidance on PB had been provided at the PEF Head Teacher and Equity Lead Information Session held on 19 May 2023. Optional PB training would be planned for August 2023 for schools which had new PB Leads or where a refresh was required. South Lanarkshire Council schools’ PB work continued to be recognised nationally as an example of good practice and several local authorities had approached the Council for guidance and support in this area. A CoSLA award application would be submitted to showcase the work of the Council’s schools in PB. Education Resources would provide Area Committees with:- a summary report of each school’s PB outcome case studies of school activity, which had particular impact/success a detailed financial report of how PEF money allocated for PB had been spent Education Resources would support schools and monitor and track the impact of this activity. Findings would inform any future PB activity within the Resource. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 8 February 2023 (Paragraph 4)] 8 Playscheme Grant Applications A report dated 16 May 2023 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on applications for playscheme grant for 2023/2024. 6
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The playscheme funding would allow an allocation of £660 to be made to playschemes that operated over the summer, October and Easter holiday periods with £440 for the summer period only and £110 for each of the October and Easter periods. Financial provision was available for individual playschemes to receive, as appropriate, Travel and Freedom Passes from Strathclyde Partnership for Transport. The Committee decided: that playscheme grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: Childcare in the Community, Hamilton (PS/HA/1/23) Amount Awarded: £440 (b) Applicant: REACH Lanarkshire Autism, Hamilton (PS/HA/3/23) Amount Awarded: £440 [Reference: Minutes of 21 June 2022 (Paragraph 2)] 9 Community Grant Applications A report dated 5 June 2023 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on applications for community grants. After discussion in relation to the proposal to award Hamilton Cyber Youth Project, Blantyre a community grant of £350, as detailed in the report, Councillor Falconer, seconded by Councillor Devlin, moved that the recommendation in the report be approved. Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Razzaq, moved as an amendment that the level of grant award to Hamilton Cyber Youth Project, Blantyre be £600. On a vote being taken using the electronic voting system, 5 members voted for the motion and 7 for the amendment which was declared carried. The Committee decided: that community grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: The Holding Space, Hamilton (HA/5/23) Purpose of Grant: Start-up costs – Equipment, materials and publicity costs Amount Awarded: £300 (b) Applicant: Hillhouse Parish Church Men’s Club, Hamilton (HA/6/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £320 (c) Applicant: Handmades, Hamilton (HA/4/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £240 (d) Applicant: Larkhall Heritage Group (HA/8/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £350 (e) Applicant: Hamilton Cyber Youth Project, Blantyre (HA/9/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £600 7
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(f) Applicant: Hamilton District Men’s Shed (HA/10/23) Purpose of Grant: Materials Amount Awarded: £300 (g) Applicant: Hamilton Bowling Club (HA/11/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £300 (h) Applicant: Hamilton South Guilds Together (HA/13/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £300 (i) Applicant: Musical Memories, Hamilton (HA/14/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £300 (j) Applicant: Larkhall New Parish Church Guild Outings Fund (HA/15/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £350 (k) Applicant: SLC Radio, Hamilton (HA/16/23) Purpose of Grant: Equipment Amount Awarded: £300 [Reference: Minutes of 26 April 2023 (Paragraph 3)] 8
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 20 September 2023 Report by: Executive Director (Education Resources) Subject: Education Scotland Report – Hamilton School for the Deaf 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise of the outcome of the inspection of Hamilton School for the Deaf 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 Hamilton School for the Deaf be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Hamilton School for the Deaf was inspected in May 2023 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; raising attainment and achievement and ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion. 3.3. The inspection team analysed questionnaires issued to a sample of 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 met parents and members of the local community. 3.4. The report by Education Scotland was published on 27 June 2023. 4. Finding of HM inspectors 4.1. Education Scotland made comment under the following headings:- Leadership of change, Learning teaching and assessment, Wellbeing, equality and inclusion and raising attainment and achievement. All 4 quality indicators were evaluated as Good. 4.2 The particular strengths of the school were identified as follows:- Leadership is strong and all staff have high aspirations for the school. The child-centred culture across the school, underpinned by Deaf awareness and Deaf identity results in every child knowing they are valued highly. 4 9
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Teamwork across the school and outreach staff is strong. Staff are responsive to each child’s wellbeing needs, interests, aspirations and potential barriers to learning. The strong relationships between adults and children help children to be confident, happy and to achieve. Pupil transitions both into and moving on from school are managed effectively with full involvement of parents. 4.3 Education Scotland identified the following areas for continued improvement:- To continue with the work already started in self-evaluation processes. To provide more planned moderation activities to support development of professional judgements and shared understanding of standards. To plan learning with a greater focus on raising attainment and ensure differentiated learning activities provide sufficient challenge for all learners. To develop the curriculum further to support children to have a better understanding of their rights. 4.4 The Inspection report can be accessed by clicking the following web link:- Hamilton School for the Deaf 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. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 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 are shared with parents and discussed at Parent Council meetings. Carole McKenzie Executive Director (Education Resources) 29 August 2023 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Inspiring learners, transforming learning, strengthening partnerships Previous References None 10
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List of Background Papers Education Scotland Report of Hamilton School for the Deaf – May 2023 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Stewart Nicolson Head of Education (Hamilton Area) Ext: 4475 (Tel: 01698 454475) E-mail: stewart.nicolson@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 11
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1 | Hamilton School for the Deaf, South Lanarkshire Council, 8550840 © Crown Copyright 27 June 2023 Dear Parent/Carer In May 2023, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland visited Hamilton School for the Deaf. 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 headteacher has brought together all staff to create a strong sense of community across the school. She supports them effectively to take forward the school’s priorities for improvement. • The strong relationships between adults and children. These help children to be confident, happy and achieve well. • The child-centred culture across the school, underpinned by Deaf awareness and Deaf identity. Every child knows they are valued highly. • The dedication of all staff, including the outreach team, to delivering deaf education. This supports their clear focus on improving children’s communication and wellbeing. The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from South Lanarkshire Council. • Strengthen how teachers plan learning with a greater focus on raising children’s attainment. • Develop the curriculum further to support children to have a better understanding of their rights. 4 13
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2 | Hamilton School for the Deaf, South Lanarkshire Council, 8550840 © 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). 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 Hamilton School for the Deaf Quality indicators Evaluation Leadership of change good Learning, teaching and assessment good Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion good Raising attainment and achievement good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our school? (4th edition), Appendix 3: The six-point scale 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. Graeme Gordon HM Inspector 14
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 20 September 2023 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: Update on Town Centres 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- update members on the activity currently being undertaken across the Hamilton area [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that members note the current activity across the Hamilton area. 3. Background 3.1. The nature of town centres across the UK is in a transitional stage. The range of issues involved in the challenges town centres are facing are broad and complex. Factors such as the economic downturn, internet shopping, the growth of out-of-town shopping malls, changes in retailers’ business models and consumer expectations have resulted in a decline in 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. Supporting town centres remains a Council priority and officers continue to work in partnership with groups and organisations in each town to achieve our common goals. 3.3. The role town centres have in our communities is significant and, therefore, cannot be overstated. Town centres support and contribute to the lives of people across our communities whether this is to access essential services, visiting for shopping or enjoying leisure time. 3.4. Around 70% of businesses and jobs in the economy are located in town centres and they are the principal location for leisure and hospitality. They retain a vital social importance as a meeting, events and performance space. 3.5. Across the 10 towns defined in the South Lanarkshire Local Development Plan (LDP) there is active and ongoing engagement with the most appropriate groups in the town. These range from town to town and include Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), Development Trusts, Community Councils and private property owners. 5 15
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3.6. Town Centre strategies and action plans have been prepared and approved for Hamilton, Cambuslang, Larkhall and Blantyre with work now underway in Rutherglen. Similar plans are being progressed by the communities in Lanark and Carluke along with the master planning work by the owners of East Kilbride. 3.7. These strategies and action plans are closely aligned with the Government approach to town centres captured in the New Future for Scotland’s Town Centres report and action plan. 3.8. Officers in Enterprise and Sustainable Development Services are working with all key stakeholders across our towns and have commissioned two key pieces of work to set the direction of the Council’s work around town centres going forward. These will inform and align with existing and emerging funding opportunities around town centres. Town Centre Visioning – this will set out how the Council delivers on the strategic aims and objectives at a local level. As noted above, while all towns have similar challenges, the solutions are not always the same. This work will set out how the Council, communities and partners should deliver meaningful and sustainable change within our town centres through a series of projects and action plans. Transition to Net Zero – town centres are major contributors to pollution and although a number of early wins have been achieved, the ways to deliver long term meaningful and sustainable reductions are complex and not always palatable to business or customers. This work will set out a practical approach to working towards net zero across our towns. 4. Town Centre Activity 4.1. Hamilton As noted above, Hamilton has seen a change in customer behavior over the past twenty years which has resulted in an increase in vacant retail space. 4.1.2. Hamilton, however, is a town centre with strong assets and identity. This is evident through its civic presence, business base, historical architecture and investment to date. These provide the foundations for Hamilton to reassert its role as a strong and vibrant town centre. Recognition of the change in retail allows focus on other key aspects of the town centre including leisure and cultural offering, services and town centre living. As one of Lanarkshire’s largest towns, Hamilton is well placed to provide a variety of functions to a large catchment area. 4.1.3. Due to a number of commercial factors, such as a shift in retail provision and loss of key town centre anchors (such as Marks and Spencer), the opportunity has arisen to review a number of prominent town centre sites as a whole with the view to creating a masterplan which will meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s customer. The masterplan will bring underutilised areas of the town centre back into use. 4.1.4. Enterprise and Sustainability Services has appointed 360 Architecture to undertake a masterplanning exercise involving key sites within the south-eastern quarter of the town centre. This exercise will set the context for public and private sector investment over the next 10+ years. The masterplan will reflect aspirations for a resilient mixed- use economy which repositions the town centre to meet the needs of 21st century living in a high quality and sustainable manner. Sites identified include:- Keith Street Car Park 16
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Townhead Street Car Park Regent Shopping Centre New Cross Shopping Centre Duke Street Car Park Former Bairds Department Store Hamilton Police HQ Masterplan work may also identify further sites. 4.1.5. A key component of the masterplan exercise is analysis of market potential to understand developer and investor interests. Following this a land-use strategy will explore options for a mixed-use development which will include residential (linking to the Strategic Housing Investment Plan), leisure, retail, public realm, the green network and parking. A development prospectus will be produced to enable SLC and partners to share the vision for Hamilton town centre with potential partners and investors. 4.1.6. The development of the masterplan is a unique chance to deliver transformational change to the town centre. The plan will reduce the centre’s reliance on retail and instead focus on the needs and wants of the users of today and the future. The masterplan is due for completion at the end of autumn with consultation taking place early in the new year. 4.2. The Hamilton Town Centre Strategy and Action plan is due to be renewed in 2023. Although the strategy covers several areas not covered by the masterplan, masterplan work is a key component with the outcomes shaping the direction of the Strategy over the next 10+ years. As noted at the Community and Enterprise Resources Committee meeting of 29th September, it is deemed prudent to delay publication of a revised Strategy until such time as it can be updated with key elements of the masterplan. It is intended that both the updated Strategy and masterplan outcomes will be brought to committee early next year. 4.3. Hamilton Business Improvement District held a successful South Lanarkshire Pride event at the end of July. The event was the first of its kind in Lanarkshire and was attended by circa 6,000 people. Town centre footfall was up 65% over the weekend. 4.4. Larkhall 4.4.1. A Place Based Investment Programme (PBIP) award of £100,000 provided a new boiler, hanging baskets and greening and benches at the Growers Office on King Street. These works are due for completion at the end of September 2023. 4.4.2. A second PBIP award of £450,000 has been granted to support creation of 18 affordable homes on the Coal yard site at the junction of Caledonian Road and Raploch Street. 4.4.3. The Larkhall Town Centre Strategy and Action Plan is currently under review and will be updated in due course. 4.5. Blantyre 4.5.1. Officers continue to support the actions of the Blantyre Town Centre Strategy and Action Plan. 5. Employee Implications 5.1. There are no employee implications from the information set out in this report. 17
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6. Financial Implications 6.1. There are no financial implications from the information set out in this report. All projects and spend referred to will be subject to separate approvals as appropriate. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. Climate change and working to net zero is at the heart of all the work on town centres as we seek to deliver sustainable town centres which support liveable neighbourhoods. Both the Rutherglen and Cambuslang town centre action plans will have a focus on sustainability. 8. Other Implications 8.1. All town centres face a challenging set of circumstances. It is essential the Council plays a full and active role in the future of or town centres. Not doing so will result in continued decline and greater demands on limited resources. 9. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 9.1. Our town centres have to be available for all across our communities. We continue to work and consult with a broad range of groups across our communities and as noted above the work involved in improving our town centres will be subject to wide consultation. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 4 September 2023 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 None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- 18
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Victoria Eccles, Project Development Officer, Enterprise and Sustainable Development Services. E-mail:- victoria.eccles@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 19
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 20 September 2023 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: South Lanarkshire Community Planning Partnership – Area Community Partnership Update 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- provide the Committee with the background to Community Partnerships and an update on the progress of the development of the Community Partnership for Hamilton and its surrounding areas [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation:- (1) that the progress being made in respect of the Hamilton Area Community Partnership be noted. 3. Background 3.1. The Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Board undertook a self-assessment which was facilitated by the Improvement Service during January/February 2019. Following approval of the Best Value Assurance Report by the Council in June 2019, an extended Community Planning Partnership session took place on 11 September 2019 to consider the output of the facilitated self-assessment session along with the outcomes of the Council’s Best Value Assurance Report. 3.2. A session with representatives from the CPP Thematic Partnership Boards took place on 3 October 2019 and draft implementation plans were prepared on the CPP structure, joint problem solving and scrutiny of the work of the Thematic Boards. 3.3. A further session took place with the Board on 23 October 2019 to consider how the CPP Board should be structured at a thematic/local level. Proposals drafted by the Improvement Service and the Community Planning Team included the formation of local community-led partnerships. These were approved by the CPP Board in December 2019. 3.4. These recommendations brought together community planning areas into 4 collaborative, area-level, Community Partnership Boards. These are Rutherglen and Cambuslang; Clydesdale; East Kilbride and Strathaven; and the Hamilton area which is currently being developed. The Hamilton area also includes communities in Blantyre, Bothwell, Larkhall, Stonehouse, and Uddingston. These partnerships include representatives from development trusts, community councils, neighbourhood planning action groups and other local community anchor 6 21
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organisations. They are chaired by community leaders who have a place on the CPP Board. 3.5. These Area Community Led Partnerships provide a link for the Community Planning Partnership to take forward the Community Plan and Neighbourhood Plans alongside its Community Partners. 4. Current Progress 4.1. Work is progressing in the areas of Blantyre, Bothwell, Hamilton, Larkhall, Stonehouse, and Uddingston to develop their partnership. Meetings are taking place with local groups to discuss the benefits of joining the partnership. The Community Planning Development Officer is currently mapping local groups within the area to ensure that the new partnership will be representative of the local communities in the area. This work has also included face-to-face and online communication of CPP objectives and activities. 4.2. At the meeting of the 22 March 2023, the CPP Board agreed that £2,000 will be allocated to each Community Partnership from the Lived Experience Fund. The Partnership will be supported to use this funding to gather the experiences of local people to inform a better understanding of inequalities. 4.3. Neighbourhood Plans as required by the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 have been produced for Blantyre, Fairhill, Hillhouse, Udston and Burnbank, Strutherhill and Birkenshaw, and Whitehill areas. Work is ongoing with communities in the Hamilton South Ward to develop a Neighbourhood Plan which will set out local priorities for action. Communities in the Bothwell and Larkhall areas have also developed their own plans. 4.4. Established community partnerships are starting to develop area wide priorities. This provides the opportunity for partners to support actions to improve outcomes and to work in partnership at a larger, area wide level. When established, the Community Partnership will be at the forefront of this activity in ensuring that the voice of communities is heard at the CPP Board. 5. Participatory Budgeting (PB) 5.1. Participatory Budgeting (PB) was significantly developed in the priority areas in 2022. Additional Council investment of £200,000 was added to the usual £40,000 budget and £64,000 was secured from the National Lottery Communities Fund, including £44,000 to match the core PB fund. The full amount will be spent during 2023. 5.2. Full PB processes have been held in Hillhouse, Udston and Burnbank (HUB). Voting has doubled in this area with 4,694 local votes. The other areas are re-prioritising their local plans and PB will be distributed based on the new priorities. Strutherhill and Birkenshaw are focussing on play and community land initiatives in the area and PB resources will be directed to these key projects identified through community consultation. 6. Next Steps 6.1. The first meeting of the new Community Partnership for Hamilton and the surrounding areas, with the support of the Community Engagement Team, is likely to take place in September 2023. The 2 established Community Partnerships (Clydesdale and Cambuslang/Rutherglen) plan to engage with this partnership and the East Kilbride and Strathaven Partnership. 22
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7. Can Do Community Challenge Fund 7.1. The ‘Can Do Community Fund’ is a one-year investment fund from South Lanarkshire Council for neighbourhoods in the Community Partnership area that do not have PB funding. This funding aims to address specific needs, and targets projects identified through consultation with local communities. Monies are not available in areas where a Neighbourhood Plan is in place. 7.2. Community organisations, including Community Councils, have the opportunity to apply for grants up £10,000 to tackle identified issues within their areas, whether they require revenue, capital funding or a combination of both. The fund has a £200,000 limit for the whole of South Lanarkshire and could benefit a minimum of 20 projects. 7.3. Area Committees will be requested to make the final decisions on those applications that have met the funding criteria and have evidenced community support. 8 Employee Implications 8.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. 9. Financial Implications 9.1. Financial resources to support Community Partnership activity are outlined at 4.2. and Council funding available for community groups at 7.2. 10. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 10.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment associated with this report. 11. Other Implications 11.1. There are no risk or sustainability issues associated with the content of this report. 12. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 12.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. Consultation on local community plans and neighbourhood plans is carried out on an ongoing basis with each community involved in the process. Consultation with Community Partnerships is ongoing. Paul Manning Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 29 August 2023 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Values Focused on people and their needs Working with and respecting others Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Ambitious, self-aware and improving Fair, open and sustainable 23
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Priorities We will work to put people first and reduce inequality We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress and improve Outcomes Our children and young people thrive Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Caring, connected, sustainable communities People live the healthiest lives possible 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:- Jen Kerr, Community Engagement Manager Email:- Jennifer.Kerr1@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 24
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. Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 20 September 2023 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 8 community groups in the Hamilton Area Committee area from the 2023/2024 community grant 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: The Art Room, Hamilton (HA/37/22) Purpose of Grant: Outing and materials Identified Community Benefits: Working with and respecting others Estimated Cost: £300 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £300 Recommendation: £300 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (b) Applicant: St John’s Friendly Hour, Hamilton (HA/3/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and equipment Identified Community Benefits: Focused on people and their needs Estimated Cost: £790 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £500 Recommendation: £420 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (c) Applicant: Strutherhill Lunch and Social Club, Larkhall (HA/12/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £300 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £300 Recommendation: £300 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee 7 25
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(d) Applicant: Larkhall YMCA (HA/18/23) Purpose of Grant: Equipment Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £970 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £970 Recommendation: £582 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (e) Applicant: Hamilton Bowling Club (Ladies Section) (HA/21/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Identified Community Benefits: Please live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £900 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £350 Recommendation: £350 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (f) Applicant: Raploch Elderly Lunch Club (HA/22/23) Purpose of Grant: Specialist transport Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £840 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £500 Recommendation: £500 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (g) Applicant: Grow Uddingston (HA/23/23) Purpose of Grant: Equipment Identified Community Benefits: Focused on people and their needs Estimated Cost: £600 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £600 Recommendation: £360 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (h) Applicant: Lyndale Club (HA/24/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Identified Community Benefits: Focused on people and their needs Estimated Cost: £500 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £500 Recommendation: £350 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee 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. 3.2. The main aims of the community grants scheme are to:- fund activities and projects which bring community benefit 26
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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 2023/2024 is as follows:- Total allocation for Community Grants £25,750 Grants previously allocated £5,390 Community grants allocated in this report £3,162 Remaining balance £17,198 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. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 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. Paul Manning Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 4 September 2023 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 Previous References Hamilton Area Committee – 21 June 2023 List of Background Papers 27
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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 28