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West Dunbartonshire Council · 17 June 2026
Back to West Dunbartonshire Council — 17 June 2026 and its agenda
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Agenda West Dunbartonshire Council Date: Wednesday, 17 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Time: 16:00 ___________________________________________________________________ Format: Hybrid meeting ___________________________________________________________________ Contact: Carol-Ann Burns, Senior Democratic Services Officer Email: carol-ann.burns@west-dunbarton.gov.uk committee.admin@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Dear Member Please attend a meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council as detailed above. Members will have the option to attend the meeting remotely or in person at the Civic Space, 16 Church Street, Dumbarton. The business is shown on the attached agenda. Yours faithfully PETER HESSETT Chief Executive Page 1
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Distribution:- Provost Karen Murray Conaghan Councillor June McKay Councillor James Bollan Councillor John Millar Councillor Kevin Crawford Councillor Lawrence O’Neill Councillor Ian Dickson Councillor Lauren Oxley Councillor Diane Docherty Councillor Chris Pollock Councillor Fiona Hennebry Councillor Martin Rooney Councillor Gurpreet Singh Johal Councillor William Rooney Councillor Daniel Lennie Councillor Gordon Scanlan Councillor David McBride Councillor Hazel Sorrell Councillor Jonathan McColl Councillor Clare Steel Councillor Michelle McGinty Councillor Sophie Traynor Chief Executive Chief Officers Date of issue: 4 June 2026 Audio Streaming Audio recordings of the meeting (including the attendance or contribution of any party participating or making a contribution) will be published on the Council’s website and the Council’s host’s webcast/audio stream platform. You should be aware that the Council is a Data Controller under the General Data Protection Regulation. Data collected during this audio stream will be retained in accordance with the Council’s Privacy Notice* and Retention Schedules including, but not limited to, for the purpose of keeping historical records and making those records available via the Council’s internet site. Page 2
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL WEDNESDAY, 17 JUNE 2026 AGENDA 1 STATEMENT BY CHAIR – AUDIO STREAMING The Chair will be heard in connection with the above. 2 APOLOGIES 3 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Members are invited to declare if they have an interest in any of the items of business on the agenda and the reasons for such declarations. 4 RECORDING OF VOTES The Council is asked to agree that all votes taken during the meeting will be carried out by roll call vote to ensure an accurate record. 5 OPEN FORUM The Council is asked to note that no open forum questions have been submitted by members of the public. 6 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 9 – 11 Submit, for approval as correct record, the Minutes of Meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council held on 29 April 2026. 7 MINUTES OF MEETING OF AUDIT COMMITTEE To Follow Submit for information, and where necessary ratification, the Minutes of Meeting of the Audit Committee held on 18 February 2026. 8/ Page 3
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8 DC24/108/PPP: ERECTION OF RESIDENTIAL-LED 13 – 46 (CLASS 8, CLASS 9 AND SUI GENERIS) MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT INCLUDING CLASS 1A (RETAIL), CLASS 3 (RESTAURANTS AND CAFES), SUI GENERIS HOT FOOD TAKEAWAYS/PUBLIC HOUSES, CLASS 4 (OFFICE), CLASS 10 (NON-RESIDENTIAL INSTITUTIONS) AND CLASS 11 (LEISURE) WITH ASSOCIATED OUTDOOR SPACE AND PUBLIC REALM WORKS, ACCESS, LANDSCAPING, PARKING AND INFRASTRUCTURE AT ARTIZAN CENTRE, COLLEGE WAY, DUMBARTON BY WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Submit report by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration seeking determination of a planning application for a national development, the site of which sits within the Clyde Mission area as set out in National Planning Framework 4, under the terms of the approved Scheme of Delegation, and therefore requires to be determined by Full Council. 9 FINANCIAL UPDATE 47 – 52 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources providing an update on the financial challenges facing the Council and the estimated 2027/28 to 2031/32 revenue budget gaps. 10 UNAUDITED 2025/26 WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE To Follow COUNCIL AND COMMON GOOD AND TRUST ANNUAL ACCOUNTS Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources providing a copy of the unaudited 2025/26 West Dunbartonshire Council Annual Accounts and information regarding the 2025/26 outturn as set out in the draft accounts. 11 AUDITED 2024/25 WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE To Follow COUNCIL ANNUAL ACCOUNTS Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources providing Members with the opportunity to scrutinise and approve the 2024/25 Audited Annual Accounts for West Dunbartonshire Council. 12 2024/25 WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL To Follow ANNUAL AUDIT REPORT Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources providing the 2024/25 Annual Audit Report. 13/ Page 4
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13 53 – 90 GENERAL SERVICES REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL REPORT TO 31 MARCH 2026 (DRAFT OUTTURN) Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources advising on the draft outturn position of the 2025/26 Revenue Budget and the level of the General Fund Reserve as at 31 March 2026. 14 91 – 100 GENERAL SERVICES CAPITAL BUDGETARY CONTROL REPORT 2025/26 TO 31 MARCH 2026 (DRAFT OUTTURN) Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources providing the draft outturn on the General Services capital financial performance to 31 March 2026. 15 HOUSING REVENUE ACCOUNT OUTTURN FOR FINANCIAL 101 – 112 YEAR 2025/2026 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources advising of the Housing Revenue Account outturn position for 2025/2026. 16 HOUSING REVENUE ACCOUNT CAPITAL OUTTURN FOR 113 – 120 FINANCIAL YEAR 2025/2026 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources advising of the Housing Revenue Account capital outturn position for 2025/2026. 17 CREMATORIUM 121 – 124 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Roads and Neighbourhood providing the information requested in the amendment agreed at the Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development Committee meeting on 20 May 2026 in relation to weekend access to the Hall of Remembrance. 18 VACANCIES ON COUNCIL COMMITTEES 125 – 129 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration requesting the Council fills the current list of vacancies on council committees, working groups, joint boards and outside bodies. 19/ Page 5
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19 NOTICE OF MOTIONS (a) Motion by Councillor William Rooney – 10 years of Clydebank Men’s Shed Clydebank Men’s Shed will celebrate its tenth anniversary with an open day on the 5th of August 2026. The Men’s Shed was established in 2016, and is marking ten years of supporting men in Clydebank and beyond. Clydebank Men’s Sheds plays an important role as community hub where men connect through shared activities, foster solidarity, and form lasting friendships. Over the last decade, it has been vital to help to tackle isolation and support mental health and wellbeing. Council agrees to recognise and promote the positive impact Clydebank Men's Shed has had on men’s health and wellbeing over the past ten years, and we recognise the work of all those involved and wish them continued success over the coming years. (b) Motion by Councillor Hazel Sorrell – Marking Twenty Years of Haldane Youth Services Haldane Youth Services is a registered charity providing afterschool activities and youth provision for children and young people aged 4– 24 in West Dunbartonshire. This year the group will celebrate two decades of dedicated service to children, young people, families, and the wider community across West Dunbartonshire. Haldane Youth Services aim is to make a positive and lasting difference to the lives of young people and their families by: • Raising aspirations and broadening horizons. • Encouraging confidence and increasing self-esteem. • Giving young people a voice within their community. • Rewarding commitment and positive social interaction. • Supporting young people to make healthy lifestyle choices. The group also work closely with local primary and secondary schools to ensure our support is accessible, familiar, and rooted in the community. Page 6
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Since opening in 2006, Haldane Youth Service has grown from a small volunteer-led project into a trusted community organisation delivering high-quality programmes that promote wellbeing, confidence, leadership, and positive futures. The Council notes that Haldane Youth Services is celebrating its 20th Anniversary, on Saturday 27th June at the Annex Building Old Jamestown Primary, Main Street, Jamestown. Finally, this Council thanks all the staff and the volunteers - past and present - for all they have done over the past twenty years to help make Haldane Youth Services such a great success. 20 DATE OF NEXT MEETING Members are requested to note that the next ordinary meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, 26 August 2026 at 4.00 p.m. Page 7
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL At a Hybrid Meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council held in the Civic Space, 16 Church Street, Dumbarton on Wednesday, 29 April 2026 at 4.03 p.m. Present: Provost Karen Murray Conaghan, and Councillors Jim Bollan, Kevin Crawford, Ian Dickson, Diane Docherty, Fiona Hennebry, Gurpreet Singh Johal, Daniel Lennie, David McBride, Jonathan McColl, Michelle McGinty, June McKay, John Millar, Lawrence O’Neill, Lauren Oxley, Chris Pollock, Martin Rooney, William Rooney, Gordon Scanlan and Hazel Sorrell. Attending: Peter Hessett, Chief Executive; Laurence Slavin, Chief Officer – Resources, and Section 95 Officer; Alan Douglas, Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration (Legal Officer); Amanda Graham, Chief Officer – Citizen, Culture and Facilities; Victoria Rogers, Chief Officer – People and Technology; Peter Barry, Chief Officer – Housing Services; Gail Macfarlane, Chief Officer – Roads and Neighbourhood; Gillian Hamilton, Chief Officer – Education; Michelle Lynn, Asset Manager; Graeme Forrester, Manager of Democratic and Registration Services; and Carol- Ann Burns, Senior Democratic Services Officer. Apologies: Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Councillors Clare Steel and Sophie Traynor Provost Karen Murray Conaghan in the Chair STATEMENT BY CHAIR – AUDIO STREAMING Provost Murray Conaghan advised that the meeting was being audio streamed and broadcast live to the internet and would be available for playback. MINUTE OF SILENCE At the request of Councillor O’Neill the Council observed a minute of silence as a mark of respect for Tony Worthington, the former Member of Parliament for Clydebank and Milngavie from 1987 to 2005 and Strathclyde Regional Councillor from 1974 to 1987, who had sadly passed away recently. ITEM 6 Page 9
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Councillor O’Neill paid tribute to Mr Worthington’s work on asbestosis, his support for the Queens Quay development, and the difference he made to many people across West Dunbartonshire, particularly in Clydebank. On behalf of the Council, Provost Murray Conaghan extended sympathies to Mr Worthington’s family for their loss. Note: Councillor McColl entered the meeting at this point. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST It was noted that there were no declarations of interest in any of the items of business on the agenda. RECORDING OF VOTES The Council agreed that all votes taken during the meeting would be carried out by roll call vote to ensure an accurate record. OPEN FORUM The Council noted that no open forum questions had been submitted by members of the public. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING The Minutes of Meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council held on 25 March 2026 were submitted and approved as a correct record. STATUS UPDATE ON REVIEW OF SCHEME FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMUNITY COUNCILS A report was submitted by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration providing an update on the progress of the review of the Scheme for Establishment of Community Councils, as agreed by Council on 17 December 2025. After discussion, the Committee agreed to note the status update on the review of the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils. GLASGOW CITY REGION CITY DEAL – UPDATE A report was submitted by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration providing an update on the Exxon Infrastructure Project, and reporting on matters being discussed by Glasgow City Region. Page 10
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Having heard the Asset Manager, the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration, and the Chief Officer – Resources, in answer to a Member’s questions, Councillor McBride moved:- That the Council agrees:- (1) to note the update on the Exxon Infrastructure Project; (2) to continue to include the Eastern Access Road in the scope of the Project; and (3) to note the update and progress of the Glasgow City Region programme. As an amendment, Councillor Bollan moved:- That the Council agrees: (1) to note the update on the Exxon Infrastructure Project; (2) to approve the request to remove the Eastern Access Road; and (3) to note the update and progress of the Glasgow City Region programme. Councillor Dickson then seconded Councillor McBride’s motion and Councillor Lennie seconded Councillor Bollan’s amendment. On a roll call vote being taken between the amendment (Councillor Bollan) and the motion (Councillor McBride), 3 Members voted for the amendment, namely Councillors Bollan, Lennie and McKay, and 17 Members voted for the motion, namely Provost Murray Conaghan and Councillors Crawford, Dickson, Docherty, Hennebry, Singh Johal, McBride, McColl, McGinty, Millar, O’Neill, Oxley, Pollock, Martin Rooney, William Rooney, Scanlan and Sorrell. The motion was accordingly declared carried. NOTICE OF MOTIONS The Council noted that no motions had been submitted by Members. DATE OF NEXT MEETING Members noted that the next ordinary meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council was scheduled to be held on Wednesday, 17 June 2026 at 4.00 p.m. The meeting closed at 4.21 p.m. Page 11
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Planning, Building Standards and Environmental Health Manager Council: 17th June 2026 _____________________________________________________________ DC24/108/PPP: Erection of residential-led (Class 8, Class 9 and sui generis) mixed use development including Class 1A (Retail), Class 3 (Restaurants and cafes), sui generis hot food takeaways/public houses, Class 4 (Office), Class 10 (Non-residential institutions) and Class 11 (Leisure) with associated outdoor space and public realm works, access, landscaping, parking and infrastructure at Artizan Centre, College Way, Dumbarton by West Dunbartonshire Council. 1. REASON FOR REPORT 1.1 This report relates to a planning application for a national development as the application site sits within the Clyde Mission area as set out in National Planning Framework 4. Under the terms of the approved Scheme of Delegation, it therefore requires to be determined by Full Council. 2 RECOMMENDATION 2.1 That the Council approve the application subject to the conditions set out in Section 9 of the report at Appendix 1. 2.2 Note that should the Council determine to approve the application, subject to conditions, the application will require to be notified to the Scottish Ministers under The Town and Country Planning (Notification of Applications) (Scotland) Direction 2009 as SEPA have objected in principle to the development. Any granting of permission by the Planning Authority would also require Notification under The Town and Country Planning (Notification of Applications) (10 or more homes on non-allocated land) (Scotland) Direction 2025. 3 BACKGROUND 3.1 The application site is located primarily on land occupied by The Artizan Shopping Centre and extends to approximately 2.8 ha. The site is bound by High Street to the south, Risk Street to the west, car parks and Dumbarton Bowling Club to the north and St Mary’s Way to the east. A small portion of the south of the development site is located within the Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area boundary, including the buildings fronting High Street and the whole of the site is located within the Dumbarton Town Centre. 3.2 The Council successfully gained Levelling Up Funding (now known as the Local Regeneration Fund) as part of the Connecting Dumbarton project that also included the adjacent Glencairn House project. At the time of submission, and therefore reflected in the plans and drawings, College Way was lined with retail ITEM 8 Page 13
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units which formed part of the wider Artizan Shopping Centre (which is an open air centre rather than being enclosed), albeit the majority of these units were vacant. Since the submission of the application, a number of these units have been demolished with these parts of the site currently comprising vacant land. These demolition works do not alone require planning permission. “Phase 1” of the wider redevelopment of the site which comprises works to the existing building to be retained inclusive of façade improvements to existing shopfronts together with initial landscaping and associated infrastructure was separately granted full planning permission under application DC24/081/FUL in November 2024. These works have commenced. 3.3 This application is for Planning Permission in Principle for a mixed-use development set out in a masterplan that seeks to redevelop the site and partially repurpose the existing assets where possible, as set out in Sections 3.5 and 3.6 of the Committee Report at Appendix 1. The masterplan proposes to create a new, high-quality, permeable public realm and is intended to contain the following uses: • Residential • Retail (at ground floor and key corners) • Leisure/Food and Beverage • Healthcare Facility. 4 MAIN ISSUES 4.1 A copy of the report presented to the Planning Committee is provided in Appendix 1. Sections 6 and 7 of that report set out the planning policies and other material considerations relevant to the application. The report concludes that the development, despite an objection in principle from SEPA, draws strong support from many Development Plan policies and falls within the Clyde Mission National Development. The proposal will bring significant benefits to the town centre in redeveloping underuse and vacant brownfield land whilst fully acknowledging the concerns set out in SEPA’s objection. As SEPA are in agreement with the applicants data and that all parties agree and understand the technical data that underpins the flood risk, the report sets out that considering the development plan as a whole and that as the flood risk arises from coastal flooding, which can be forecast in advance, and that mitigation measures can be designed into the development it can be considered to be overall acceptable, despite being contrary to NPF4 Policy 22. 4.2 As set out in section 4.1 SEPA have objected in principle, but have removed their objection relating the understanding of flood risk, whilst section 4.2 sets out that Council as Flood Authority have not objected to the development, subject to conditions. A full assessment of flood matters is set out in sections 7.40 – 7.52 of the Committee Report. In terms of other consultees, no objections were received from the Council’s Roads Service, Environmental Health, HES, West of Scotland Archaeological Service, Scottish Water or the council’s Biodiversity Officer. 1 public representation in support of the application was received, and this is noted in section 5 of the report. Page 14
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4.3 Taking all matters into account, with the exception of Policy 22, it is considered that the proposals, with conditions, accord with the provisions of NPF4, and the adopted West Dunbartonshire Local Plan and proposed West Dunbartonshire Local Development Plan 2. 4.4 At the pre-determination hearing at Planning Committee a representative from the applicants agents, Savils and the Flood Consultant, Kaya, were heard in respect of the application. No other party opted to take part in the hearing. Planning committee discussed concerns with officers regarding the archaeological potential of the site and how this was to be manged. Officers confirmed that the archaeological potential of the site is known and a written scheme of investigation is required by condition 13 prior to any works taking place. The condition further requires that the scheme of investigation, once agreed, is carried out in full. 4.5 After discussion the Planning Committee recommended that the application be referred to the full Council for determination, expressing the provisional view that the application should be approved with the conditions indicated within Section 9 of the Planning Committee Report (Appendix 1). 5. People Implications 5.1 There are no personnel issues. 6. Financial and Procurement Implications 6.1 There are no financial or procurement implications. 7. Risk Analysis 7.1 No risks have been identified. 8. Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) 8.1 There is no equalities impact. 9. Environmental Sustainability 9.1 A Strategic Environmental Assessment is not required. 10. Consultation 10.1 Publicity and consultation have been carried out in line with the requirements of the planning regulations. 1 representation from a member of the public has been received in support of the proposals and consultations received from West Dunbartonshire Council Roads Service, West Dunbartonshire Council Roads Service (Flooding), West Dunbartonshire Council Environmental Health, West Dunbartonshire Council Biodiversity officer, Historic Environment Scotland, Scottish Water, West of Scotland Archaeological Service and SEPA. These are summarised in Section 4 and 5 of the Planning Committee report (Appendix 1). Page 15
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11. Strategic Assessment 11.1 The proposed development complies with the strategic priorities of the Council in particular: • Our Communities Resilient and Thriving • Our Environment A Greener Future • Our Economy Strong and Flourishing Michael Mulgrew Planning, Building Standards and Environmental Health Manager Date: 17th June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Person to Contact: Michael Mulgrew, Planning & Building Standards Manager Email: Michael.Mulgrew@west-dunbarton.gov.uk James McColl, Development Management Team Leader Email: James.McColl@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendices: Appendix 1 - Planning Committee Report: 3rd June – DC24/108/PPP Background Papers: None Wards Affected: Ward 3 (Dumbarton) Page 16
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Planning, Building Standards and Environmental Health Manager Planning Committee: 3rd June 2026 DC24/108/PPP: Erection of residential-led (Class 8, Class 9 and sui generis) mixed use development including Class 1A (Retail), Class 3 (Restaurants and cafes), sui generis hot food takeaways/public houses, Class 4 (Office), Class 10 (Non-residential institutions) and Class 11 (Leisure) with associated outdoor space and public realm works, access, landscaping, parking and infrastructure at Artizan Centre, College Way, Dumbarton by West Dunbartonshire Council. 1. REASON FOR REPORT 1.1 The planning application is a national development as set out in the Schedule to the Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009 as the application site sits within the Clyde Mission area as set out in National Planning Framework 4. Under the terms of the approved Scheme of Delegation, it therefore requires to be considered by the Planning Committee before being determined by the Council. 2. RECOMMENDATION 2.1 That the Planning Committee hears the applicant and those who have made representations and refers the application to full Council for determination with a preliminary recommendation, based on the information considered to date, that it be approved, subject to the conditions in Section 9 below. 2.2 Should the Council determine to approve the application, subject to conditions, the application will require to be notified to the Scottish Ministers under The Town and Country Planning (Notification of Applications) (Scotland) Direction 2009 as SEPA have objected in principle to the development. Any granting of permission by the Planning Authority would also require Notification under The Town and Country Planning (Notification of Applications) (10 or more homes on non-allocated land) (Scotland) Direction 2025. 3. DEVELOPMENT DETAILS 3.1 The application site is located primarily on land occupied by The Artizan Shopping Centre and extends to approximately 2.8 ha. The site is bound by High Street to the south, Risk Street to the west, car parks and Dumbarton Bowling Club to the north and St Mary’s Way to the east. A small portion of the south of the development site is located within the Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area boundary, including the buildings fronting High Street and the whole of the site is located within the Dumbarton Town Centre. 3.2 At the time of submission, and therefore reflected in the plans and drawings, College Way was lined with retail units which formed part of the wider Artizan Shopping Centre (which is an open air centre rather than being enclosed), albeit the majority of APPENDIX 1 Page 17
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these units were vacant. Since the submission of the application, a number of these units have been demolished with these parts of the site currently comprising vacant land. These demolition works do not alone require planning permission. “Phase 1” of the wider redevelopment of the site which comprises works to the existing building to be retained inclusive of façade improvements to existing shopfronts together with initial landscaping and associated infrastructure was separately granted full planning permission under application DC24/081/FUL in November 2024. These works have commenced. 3.3 This application is for Planning Permission in Principle for a mixed-use development set out in a masterplan that seeks to redevelop the site and partially repurpose the existing assets where possible. The masterplan proposes to create a new, high- quality, permeable public realm and is intended to contain the following uses: • Residential • Retail (at ground floor and key corners) • Leisure/Food and Beverage • Healthcare Facility. 3.4 It is proposed that Phases 2 and 3 of the redevelopment of the site will be located on plots freed up the initial demolition works. Block A or Plot A as defined on the site layout as proposed drawing is proposed as affordable homes, for later living. This is located to the north of the site adjacent to Risk Street. The Design and Access Statement suggests up to 40 homes within this part of the site. Block B or Plot B is indicated as a four-storey Health Centre with circa 6000m2 of floor space. This is located on the west side of College Way. 3.5 Block/Plot C onwards is proposed within the Design and Access Statement as “Longer term possibilities”. Block/Plot C is indicated to be a mix of one and two bed flats and two storey maisonettes for family living. Thirty of these units are suggested and are to be located towards the north of the site on the east side of College Way. Block D remains retail with refurbishment and repurposing, and is located on the west side of College Way. Block E is proposed to be consolidated retail with the introduction of 40 affordable housing units through new extensions. This block fronts onto High Street and is on the east side of College Way. 3.6 As the application is for Planning Permission in Principle, full details of design and materials are not considered at this stage. However, an approach of utilising warm tones and textures is indicated in the Design and Access Statement, and this would be reflected in a palette of red, rust and light brown brick with feature elements like balconies, railing and spandrel panels of metal finished in heritage tones. 4. CONSULTATIONS 4.1 Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) SEPA object in principle to the application and recommend that planning permission is refused. SEPA states that had this been a like-for-like redevelopment of a commercial site, they would have no objection. However, the proposal introduces dwellinghouses and a health centre both of which are “high vulnerability” to flooding. The initial consultation noted that notwithstanding SEPA’s objection in principle, that a number of technical aspects required to be covered within the Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) in order to demonstrate that the flood risk of the site was fully understood. Page 18
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Further information was provided and SEPA confirmed that the FRA met the technical and reporting standards. Whilst the submission of the information does not change the objection in principle, it enables an agreed understanding of the flood hazard. 4.2 West Dunbartonshire Council Roads Service (Flooding) The site has been identified at risk of Coastal flooding on the SEPA Flood Maps. The main factors contributing to coastal flooding within Dumbarton are the tide level, wind speed and direction. Coastal flooding frequently happens within the area when the tidal level is 3.6m and above with the wind direction coming from the southwest at 20mph, flooding Riverside Lane and the car parking area only. For it to reach the site it would need to be significantly higher in tide level and wind speed. There has been one historic flooding event recorded affecting Dumbarton High Street. The coastal risk is confirmed by the applicant's flood risk assessment, which identifies the risk for a range of return periods and climate uplifts. The applicant has taken the flood risk into account in the site design, with commercial development on the ground floor level and residential development on upper floors. A proposed health centre is located at the higher part of the site. The site is currently commercial, with existing units at risk of flooding, so commercial development on the ground floor would not increase the vulnerability to flooding. Residential units would be an increase in vulnerability, but the units would be above flood levels. It is also noted that coastal flooding can be predicted in advance allowing for evacuation before the event and installation of flood prevention measures. It is accepted that the commercial units in the site would not be operational during flooding and there are no requirements for shops to be open during an extreme flood event. The flood risk assessment considers all risks of flooding, there is no reduction in floodplain capacity, risk to others or need for future flood protection schemes (SEPA does not require compensatory flood storage for coastal flooding and ground floor commercial units will flood as at present). The Roads Service would recommend flood resilient building methods and the assessment considers the impact of climate change. Residential units will be set well above the flood level with commercial units designed to be flooded. We are aware SEPA are objecting to the development on these grounds, but we would note that there is an existing flood risk to Dumbarton and the new development more explicitly takes into account future flood risk. As coastal flooding can be predicted well in advance, there is the potential for evacuation of the area and/or installation of flood prevention measures. The Roads Service would advise the applicant that the site should be flood resilient and does not increase the existing flood risk to the surrounding area. 4.3 West Dunbartonshire Council Roads Service There are no objections to the principle of the proposed development subject to a variety of matters being addressed by condition. These include the requirement to consider servicing and parking inclusive of disabled bays, electric vehicle parking and cycle parking in relation to the National Roads Design Guide (NRDG) and WDC standards applicable at the time of any application for the approval of matters specified by condition (AMSC). It is recommended a Green and Active Travel Plans are submitted. Should any stopping up or diversion of publicly adopted roads or footways be required, this should be addressed via the relevant sections of the planning legislation. Page 19
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It is further recommended that joint pre and post inspections of all publicly adopted areas are undertaken to ensure that they are retained in their existing condition, that all necessary permits and permissions are obtained prior to the commencement of works and a construction programme together with detailed traffic management be agreed in advance of any works. 4.4 West Dunbartonshire Council Environmental Health Service Further, more detailed site investigations and assessments require to be undertaken for all future applications for AMSC and it is recommended the full set of contaminated land conditions be applied. Given the anticipated risks to the water environment, it is also recommend that a site wide water environment risk assessment is undertaken in advance of any AMSC applications. Conditions recommended relating to site investigation, site-wide water environment investigation and the re-use of site won material/the import of material. The submitted Noise Impact Assessment, (SWECO Outline Planning Noise Assessment Rev C02) raises a number of issues that require to be addressed at subsequent stages of Planning process as per the below extracted information. • The design considerations for the Healthcare centre (block B) are beyond the scope of the PPiP application and should form part of the applications for AMSC as is considered appropriate. • It will be important to ensure a good acoustic design is adopted at any dwellings near the northern site extent or overlooking the High Street, to avoid adverse noise impacts on the completed development, particularly at night • It is recommended that the assessment of noise ingress is re-addressed during the detailed design stage to establish the glazing and ventilator (if relevant) performance requirements across the site. • Careful consideration and design will be required to ensure that suitable acoustic separation (between retail and residential) is achieved at the base build • Each retail/commercial use should be subject to individual acoustic assessment for suitability. • Building services noise should be considered as part of specific planning applications for individual commercial uses. In summary noise is not considered to be a material constraint to the proposed development and suitable acoustic conditions can be achieved across the site subject to detailed design development in accordance with the Outline Planning Noise Assessment 4.5 Historic Environment Scotland (HES) The proposal is within close proximity to A-listed buildings such as St Augustine’s Episcopal Church and the former Dumbarton Academy building (now Council offices). The application documents do not discuss setting issues relating to these buildings, but it does not appear to HES that the proposals are likely to create significant detrimental impacts on the settings of the buildings. The proposal does not raise historic environment issues of national significance and therefore HES do not object. 4.6 West of Scotland Archaeology Service No objections subject to a condition relating to the implementation of a programme of archaeological works in accordance with a written scheme of investigation. Page 20
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4.7 West Dunbartonshire Council Biodiversity Officer Much of the required survey work has been completed and further survey recommendations have been made for future applications for AMSC. No overall landscape design or proposed planting schedules have been provided, and no details of any replacement tree planting are set out. There are 17 trees for removal and a further 3 that will be impacted, but no replacement strategy to account for this at this stage. There are, however, a number of very suitable biodiversity enhancement proposals that are of an appropriate scale for this site. Section 6 of the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) outlines a biodiversity enhancement statement. Tree replacement requires to be considered in future AMSC applications to offset tree loss. Section 5 of the PEA deals with mitigation and recommendations and these should all be addressed in follow up applications. It is noted that the trees for removal are being treated as having no potential for bat roosts. It is further noted that the bat surveys undertaken to date could be out of date by the time any applications for AMSC forward. 4.8 Scottish Water No objections to the proposal but note there is live infrastructure om the proximity of the development that may impact on existing Scottish Water Assets. 5. REPRESENTATIONS 5.1 One representation in support was received to the application. The full details are contained within the planning file and are available for public viewing. Whilst in support, points relating to landownership adjacent to the Dumbarton Bowling Club were raised. These have subsequently been addressed by the applicant. 6. ASSESSMENT AGAINST THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN National Planning Policy 4 6.1 The site is partially within the ‘Clyde Mission’ area, identified as one of eighteen National Developments with National Planning Framework 4 which recognises that significant land assets are under-utilised across the Clyde, and that longstanding inequality, in relation to poor environment and health outcomes require to be tackled as a national priority. The Clyde Mission designation aims to repurpose and reinvigorate vacant and derelict land as well as adapting the area to the impacts of climate change, where nature-based solutions would be particularly supported. Delivery of the development proposals for the site would support the objectives of this national development. 6.2 Policy 1 relates to tackling the climate and nature crises and states that when considering all development proposals significant weight will be given to the global climate and nature crises. Policy 2 also relates to the climate in the form of climate mitigation and adaptation, and states development proposals will be sited and designed to minimise lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions as far as possible and development proposals will be sited and designed to adapt to current and future risks from climate change. Policy 3’s intent is to protect biodiversity, reverse biodiversity loss, deliver positive effects from development and strengthen nature networks. With appropriate conditions, there is no conflict with these policies. Page 21
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6.3 As part of the site is located within a conservation area Policy 7 applies. Development proposals in or affecting conservation areas will only be supported where the character and appearance of the conservation area and its setting is preserved or enhanced. A number of listed buildings are located within the town centre in the vicinity of the site and Policy 7 further advises that development proposals affecting the setting of listed building should preserve their character and special architectural and historic interest. No concerns arise in this respect. 6.4 Within the Artizan Centre, some of the units are vacant as well as the vacant land which has been left by demolitions and as such Policy 9 addressing brownfield, vacant and derelict land and empty buildings applies. Development proposals that will result in the sustainable reuse of brownfield land including vacant and derelict land and buildings, whether permanent or temporary, will be supported. 6.5 As a developed coastal site, Policy 10 applies. Part a)i. of the policy requires that the development does not in and of itself require additional coastal protection measures, cause increased coastal flood risk and erosion to other people. The proposal is not expected to require additional coastal protection or to result in increased risk to people elsewhere. The Planning Statement accompanying the application acknowledges that part a)ii. of the policy is not met in full, the flood risk and predicted flood levels meaning the proposal may not be supportable in the long-term, taking into account climate change. 6.6 Policy 12 relates to zero waste and supports the reuse of existing buildings and infrastructure. Whilst there have been some demolitions on site already, there are sections of the Artizan Centre which are being retained for retail as well as extended for residential purposes. The reuse of existing buildings on the high street is supported by part b)i. and part b)ii. requires proposals to minimised demolition and salvage materials for reuse. The demolition of the buildings was carried out under permitted development rights and it not part of this application and as such there is no control over the materials which are now removed. Part b)iv and v will be addressed by selecting materials with as low embodied carbon as possible and with the opportunity to be reused. This can be addressed in future planning applications. Part c requires proposals to detail how waste will be managed. This can also be addressed by condition. 6.7 Sustainable Transport is covered by Policy 13. Part a) supports proposals to improve, enhance or provide active travel infrastructure, public transport infrastructure or multi-modal hubs will be supported. Part b) supports development proposals where it can be demonstrated that the transport requirements generated have been considered in line with the sustainable travel and investment hierarchies. Part c) requires where a development proposal will generate a significant increase in the number of person trips, that a transport assessment will be undertaken in accordance with the relevant guidance. Part d) of the policy does not support proposals for significant travel generating uses in locations that would increase reliance on the private car. Part e) of the policy supports ambitious proposals for low parking in urban locations well served by public transport, such as this one. Part f) of the policy states that significant travel generating uses will only be supported with a Travel Plan, which are proposed within the Transport Assessment. In principle it is considered that this policy supports the proposal, subject to conditions. 6.8 Development proposals will be designed to improve the quality of an area whether in urban or rural locations and regardless of scale as per Policy 14. Policy 15 relates to local living and 20-minute neighbourhoods. Development proposal will contribute to local living including, where relevant, 20-minute neighbourhoods. Consideration will Page 22
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be given to existing settlement pattern, and the level and quality of interconnectivity of the proposed development with the surrounding area, including local access to shopping and playgrounds and informal play opportunities, parks, green streets and spaces. 6.9 Policy 16 relates to Quality Homes. The proposal is not on an allocated site within the Local Plan or proposed Local Development Plan 2 and so is not in accordance with part a) of the policy. Whilst a specific “Statement of Community Benefit” has not been provided in accordance with part b) the information expected as part of this is provided within the Planning Statement, Economic Benefit Statement and the Design and Access Statement. Part c) of the policy supports the development of homes that improve affordability and fill any identified gaps in provision. This includes affordable homes (iv) and homes for older people (vi) which are provided within the application. Part e) of the policy requires developments for new homes to include at least 25% affordable provision which is provided. Part f) of the policy states housing on land not allocated in the LDP will only be supported if: i. the proposal is supported by an agreed timescale for build-out ii. The proposal is otherwise consistent with the plan spatial strategy and other relevant policies including local living – iii. And either: • delivery of sites is happening earlier than identified in the deliverable housing land pipeline. This will be determined by reference to two consecutive years of the Housing Land Audit evidencing substantial delivery earlier than pipeline timescales and that general trend being sustained; or • the proposal is consistent with policy on rural homes; or • the proposal is for smaller scale opportunities within an existing settlement boundary; or • the proposal is for the delivery of less than 50 affordable homes as part of a local authority supported affordable housing plan. Whilst it is accepted that the development will support the reuse of brownfield land, bring economic and community benefits and support local living it remains that it is not allocated for housing within the LDP. The development proposal which includes the provision of new residential properties does not therefore wholly accord with Policy 16. 6.10 Policy 18 relates to Infrastructure First. NPF4’s glossary defines Infrastructure First and this includes transport infrastructure and services, health and social care services, green and blue infrastructure as well as spaces for play and recreation. Part a) of this policy states that development which contributes to/provides infrastructure identified in the LDP will be supported. Public realm and green infrastructure are included within the first phase, which is consistent with LDP2’s green infrastructure led approach. It is noted that the proposal also provides opens space in line with the LDP2 requirements. LDP2s spatial strategy for Dumbarton supports improvements to active travel routes across the town centre, emphasising the connection to the train station. 6.11 As the buildings will be occupied by people part f) of Policy 19 applies. Development proposals for buildings that will be occupied by people will be supported where they are designed to promote sustainable temperature management, for example by prioritising natural or passive solutions such as siting, orientation, and materials. This can be addressed via condition. Page 23
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6.12 Policy 20 relating to blue and green infrastructure supports the inclusion of new blue and green infrastructure within development in part b) of the policy. Temporary open space or green space on unused or under used land is supported by part d) of the policy and part e) requires that proposals include maintenance plans covering arrangements for long term planning and upkeep. Policy 21 which addresses play, recreation and sport encourages, promotes and facilitates spaces and opportunities for play, recreation and sport. 6.13 Policy 22 on flood risk and water management states that proposals will not increase the risk of surface water flooding to others, or itself be at risk; manage all rain and surface water through sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) and seek to minimise the area of impermeable surface. The application site is within an area at risk of flooding. Matters relating to flood risk are assessed in detail below but the proposal cannot be held to accord with Policy 22. 6.14 Policy 23 aims to safeguard people from environmental harm and promote and facilitate development that improves health and wellbeing. Development proposals that will have positive effects on health will be supported. Development proposals that enhance and improve the vitality and viability of city, town and local centres, including proposals that increase the mix of uses, will be supported through Policy 27. Part e) supports development proposals for residential development within city/town centres will be supported including new build residential development, the re-use of a vacant buildings within city/ town centres where it can be demonstrated that the existing use is no longer viable and the proposed change of use adds to viability and vitality of the area and the conversion, or reuse of vacant upper floors of properties within city/town centres for residential. 6.15 Policy 28 aims to encourage, promote and facilitate retail investment to the most sustainable locations that are most accessible by a range of sustainable transport modes. The proposal is located within the defined Town Centre and as such retail in this location is supported. 6.16 Whilst the development is supported by many of the policies within NPF4, the proposal does not accord with Policy 16 and Policy 22. Conflicts between policies can be expected and it remains that the proposal is supported as a whole by NPF4. A full assessment together with the weighing of different policies and considerations is set out in the appraisal in Section 7 below. West Dunbartonshire Adopted Local Plan 2010 6.17 Policy UR1 encourages the redevelopment and re-use of underused, vacant and/or derelict land and buildings for appropriate uses such as housing. Policy RP1 designates areas, including Dumbarton Town Centre and the Artizan Centre, as a regeneration priority for urban renewal. 6.18 Policy RD1 gives preference to residential development on brownfield sites within urban areas. Policy SUS1 seeks to integrate land use and transport, meet social and economic needs, minimise environmental impacts and minimise the use of energy and resources. 6.19 Policy GD1 seeks to ensure that all new development is of a high quality of design and respects the character and amenity of the area. Policy GD2 encourages the reuse of vacant, derelict, or under used land. Page 24
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6.20 Policy H4 states that new housing developments will be expected to be appropriate to the wider landscape and built character of the surrounding area, and to meet certain criteria. 6.21 Policy RET1 sets out a sequential approach to new retail, commercial leisure, cultural and public service developments, with preference given to town centre locations. The policy is similar to NPF4 Policy 27 part b). Part of the proposal is designated in Schedule RET4 of the plan as a Retail Development Opportunity (RET 4(6)). This designation is in the approximate location of the proposed Health Centre (Block B), meaning that this policy does not support the proposal. Policy RET5 seeks to improve the environment of the town centres of Alexandria, Clydebank and Dumbarton and Policy RET6 seeks to protect and enhance the retail and commercial function by encouraging the improvement of existing retail floorspace. 6.22 Policy T1 supports prioritising sustainable transport measures and Policy T4 requires sites to be integrated into walking, cycling and public transport networks and located so that they are accessible to public transport. 6.23 Policy E1 relates to the Council’s biodiversity duty. Policy E5 requires new development proposals to consider impacts on trees and incorporate suitable tree planting. 6.24 Policy BE1 seeks to ensure that no works adversely affect the appearance and character of conservation areas and Policy BE2 takes a similar approach in respect of ensuring that proposals do not adversely affect the setting of any listed buildings. Policy BE3 encourages and supports the renovation rather than demolition of derelict properties which are not listed but are considered to contribute to the townscape character of the surrounding area. Policy BE5 advises on development proposals that impact upon local archaeology and the approach to assessing and recording features. 6.25 Policy R2 states that the Council will have due regard to the provision of open space as an integral part of proposals. Policy R3 relates to the enhancement of open space and sports facilities. Policy R5 seeks to encourage access for pedestrians and cyclists to waterways and protect existing core paths and rights of way. 6.26 Policy PS3 relates to Public Service Opportunities and encourages new or improved public service provision in the area, particularly where there is social or economic need and in close proximity to new homes, provided it facilitates development which accord with the plan 6.27 Policies F1, F2 and F3 aim to ensure that new development is not at risk from, and does not increase the risk of flooding, and has suitable SUDS drainage infrastructure. There is a general presumption against development within the flood plain. The up- to-date development plan position in flooding is set out within Policy 22 of NPF4 which therefore has primacy in this instance. 6.28 Policy DC 2 requires new shopfronts, whether on existing buildings or on new developments, to be designed in accordance with the Council’s Shop Front Design Guide for commercial frontages. 6.29 The proposal does not comply with all policies of the adopted local plan and is assessed fully in Section 7 below. 7. ASSESSMENT AGAINST MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS Page 25
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West Dunbartonshire Local Development Plan (LDP2) Proposed Plan 7.1 On 15 March 2023, the Planning Committee took a decision that the Council would not adopt Local Development Plan 2. The Proposed Local Development Plan 2 (LDP2), incorporating the recommended modifications of the Examination Report received on 22 April 2020, which were accepted by the Planning Committee of 19 August 2020, remains the Council’s most up to date spatial strategy and is therefore afforded significant weight in the assessment and determination of planning applications, subject to compatibility with NPF4. The Scottish Ministers’ Direction relating to the adoption of LDP2, dated 18 December 2020, is also a material consideration. 7.2 The Development Strategy in the Town Centre and Waterfront supports mixed use development within the town centre, town centre living, and improvements to the Artizan Centre. Regarding improvements to the Artizan Centre, the explanatory text on page 34 of LDP2 states that this designation is placed to enable enhancement of the retail offer. Dumbarton Policy 1 High Street and Retail Development supports a more diverse and vibrant Town Centre and will encourage a range of uses within the Core Town Centre area where they accord with Policy SC2 of the Plan. 7.3 Policy CP1 seeks to ensure that all new development will be expected to contribute towards creating successful places by having regard to the six qualities of a successful place (distinctive, adaptable, resource efficient, easy to get to/move around, safe and pleasant, and welcoming). Policy CP2 requires the integration and consideration of green infrastructure from the outset of the design process through to its maintenance and stewardship of the resource. Policy CP3 requires that Masterplans be prepared on all sites within the Delivering Our Places section of the plan, which includes this proposal. The masterplan is required to include proposed phasing and strategy to bring the site forward. 7.4 Policy H3 supports particular needs housing on the sites contained within Table 3 of the Plan, and other suitable sites, where they accord with the relevant policies of the Plan. Policy H4 relates to residential amenity. The policy states that the Council will protect, preserve and enhance the residential character and amenity of existing residential areas at all times. 7.5 Policy SC1 sets out a sequential approach to new retail, commercial and leisure, with preference given to town centre locations. Policy SC2 supports a range of different uses within the core Town Centre where they help to improve the vibrancy of the Town Centre. Policy SC3 supports non-retail uses within Town Centres where these comply with Policy SC2, encourage visits to the Town Centre and are appropriate to the Town Centre’s role and function. Town Centres are the preferred location for new leisure uses and public services unless these are serving a specific neighbourhood, community or catchment which is best served more locally. 7.6 Policy BE1 takes a similar approach to the adopted Local Plan in respect of archaeology with Policy BE2 advising on the impact upon the setting of listed buildings. Due to the location within a conservation area, Policy BE3 applies. Policy BE3 does states that new development within or affecting a Conservation Area should be of a high standard of design and enhance the character of the area and should have regard to the Conservation Area Appraisal for that area. 7.7 Policies GI2 and GI4 relate to green infrastructure. Policy GI2 requires new development to meet with the open space standards set out within the policy. Where a development has difficulty providing these standards on site, or where a relaxation Page 26
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of the standards can be justified, developers will require to accord with Policy GI4 and provide a contribution towards the types of projects outlined within the policy and detailed in the Green Network and Green Infrastructure Planning Guidance. GI4 sets out the requirements for Developer Contributions. It is considered a relaxation can be justified in this instance and this is discussed fully below. 7.8 Policies ENV1, ENV4, and ENV6 are all similar to the ecology and tree, water environment and flooding policies of the adopted Local Plan, although in respect of flooding, the up-to-date development plan position is set out within Policy 22 of NPF4 which has primacy. 7.9 The Council will actively encourage the temporary greening of any vacant, derelict, stalled or underused site to improve the contribution to the green infrastructure and to improve the character and amenity of the particular community or area in accordance with Policy ENV7. Policy ENV8 relates to air, light and noise pollution and states that all new development must ensure that significant adverse noise impacts on surrounding properties and uses are avoided. Policy ENV9 requires developers to establish the nature of any contamination on any potential development site. Where contamination is present and risks to key receptors are identified, then remediation will be required to ensure the site can be made suitable for its future use. 7.10 Policy CON1 requires development proposals to accord with Designing Streets, the National Roads Development Guidelines, and be in alignment with the provisions of the Regional and Local Transport Strategies. Policy CON4 requires new residential, business and industrial developments shall be required to install the necessary infrastructure to enable all new premises to be connected to full fibre optical networks. 7.11 Whilst the proposal is supported by many policies within proposed LDP2, there are policy conflicts including that the site is not allocated for housing and this is assessed fully below. Historic Environment Scotland’s Policy and Guidance 7.12 The Historic Environment Policy for Scotland seeks to ensure that changes to specific assets and their context are managed in a way that protects the historic environment. 7.13 Historic Environment Scotland’s Managing Change in the Historic Environment Guidance Note series provides advice and guidance to Planning Authorities determining applications which affect the historic environment. Guidance Note subjects relevant to this proposal include setting, external walls, shopfronts and windows. 7.14 The guidance note on ‘Setting’ advises that setting can be important to the way in which historic structures or places are understood, appreciated and experienced, and provides guidance on factors to be considered in assessing the impact of a change on the setting of a historic asset or place. Overall, it is considered that the principle of the proposal will enhance the setting of the Dumbarton Conservation Area and be to the benefit of the wider area and therefore have no detrimental effects to any surrounding Conservation Area or listed buildings. 7.15 The guidance on ‘External Walls’ highlights that the design, materials, method of construction, colour, texture, detailing and finish typically contribute to the character of a historic wall. Whilst the buildings of the Artizan themselves are not listed they Page 27
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form a part of the fabric of the Conservation Area. Shopfronts are highlighted as contributing to the architectural quality of a building and to the character of a place. 7.16 Overall, the proposal presents no conflicts with Historic Environment Scotland’s Policy and Guidance. Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area Appraisal 7.17 Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area was designated on 11 October 2019. The Conservation Area Appraisal notes that the architecture of Dumbarton town centre falls into a number of distinct eras which can be easily identified by the styles and materials employed. This creates interest and relieves potential monotony. It is noted that since the turn of the century, West Dunbartonshire Council has seen the regeneration of the town centre as a priority, including the Artizan Centre at the heart of the 1960s re-development which was re-modelled in 2004 7.18 The creation of the Artizan Centre and its redevelopment is noted at several points throughout the appraisal, with comments made that the re-modelling (and enlargement) of the Artizan Centre destroyed the 1960s pedestrian route through the town square to the cinema, housing and station beyond; that there are a number of unresolved areas behind and near the Artizan Centre that do not aid orientation; and that there is even a uniformity of scale in the buildings that were delivered as part of the creation of the Artizan Centre. 7.19 The Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area Proposal of 2019 noted that the High Street Character Area had retained much of its original form in terms of its solid frontage and retail designation. The lack of quality in shop frontages and signage is extremely detrimental to the character and townscape of Dumbarton. Many shopfronts and signage displays on High Street are constructed of non-traditional materials, and do not reflect the original proportions of traditional shopfronts. 7.20 Open space in the town centre comprises largely of car parks and small pockets of grass: Dumbarton is well served by places to park and the majority of these are landscaped with hedge planting and trees (some flowering). 7.21 The appraisal also notes that given the various periods of development evident in the Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area, there is a wide range of building materials used, not all of which fall under the category of “traditional”. Public realm finishes are stated to be tidy, albeit clinical. Creating Places Guidance and Green Network and Green Infrastructure Guidance 7.22 The Creating Places Supplementary Guidance – November 2022 seeks to achieve high quality development with a design led approach based on a thorough appraisal of the site and an analysis of its context and sets out that this is expected for all development proposals. 7.23 The Green Network and Green Infrastructure Supplementary Guidance - November 2022 seeks to ensure that the proposal also integrates landscaping and green infrastructure as part of the setting of the new development and open space created. This will include a focus on biodiversity enhancement. Principle of Development 7.24 The site is located within Dumbarton Town Centre as defined by both the adopted Local Plan and proposed Local Development Plan (LDP) 2. It further lies partly within the core Town Centre area as defined by proposed LDP2. NPF4, the adopted Local Plan and the proposed LDP2 all promote developments within town centres and Page 28
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provide explicit support for development which increase viability and vitality of the town centre. 7.25 Policy 27 part e) of NPF4 specifically supports new build residential development proposals within town centres and reflect the vision and policy intent within NPF4 to support town centres and their positive adaption to ensure a long-term sustainable future of such centres. Part f) also supports residential uses at ground floor level where they retain an attractive and appropriate frontage, do not adversely affect the vitality and viability of a shopping area or the wider centre and do not result in an undesirable concentration of uses, or ‘dead frontages’. Part g) requires proposals for town centre living to take into account the residential amenity of the proposal. As the application proposal is in principle, parts f) and g) would be assessed in detail at the point of further submissions for approval of matters specified in condition, however the principle of the proposal offers no conflict with part f) and there is nothing to suggest that a suitable level of amenity for new town centre residents could not be achieved in the detailed design. 7.26 Policy 27 also supports a mix of uses that enhance and improve the vitality and viability of city, town and local centres, including proposals that increase the mix of uses, will be supported. Restaurants, cafes and public houses are all acceptable uses within the town centre in this respect. In regards to hot food takeaways, part c) of Policy 27 states that development proposals for non-retail uses (including hot food takeaways) will not be supported if further provision of these services will undermine the character and amenity of the area or the health and wellbeing of communities. As this is an application for planning permission in principle, the detail of individual uses including hot food takeaways is not defined. There is, however, capacity within the town centre for further hot food takeaways, however the acceptability of the number, location and general detail will be assessed as part of further submissions. Policy 27 part b) supports proposals including offices, healthcare and leisure facilities. As such the proposal to include Class 4 (Office), Class 10 (Non-residential institutions) and Class 11 (Leisure) as part of the wider development is supported in this location. Policy 28 supports retail within existing town centres. 7.27 Whilst the site is designated in the Local Plan and proposed LDP2 for regeneration or improvement, it is not explicitly allocated for housing. As such part f) of Policy 16 applies. Part f) states that housing on land not allocated in the LDP will only be supported in certain circumstances. This includes an agreed timescale for build out which can be agreed via a phasing plan. Whilst proposed details have been provided within the application, these were based on the expected position at the time of submission. Conditions can ensure an up-to-date phasing plan and associated details are provided. The proposal is consistent with the spatial strategy of the adopted plan and proposed LDP2 in that the area is highlighted as a priority for redevelopment or improvement. The proposal, however, does not meet any of the criteria in part f) iii because the deliverable housing land pipeline has not yet been established; the proposal is not in a rural area; the proposal is not of a smaller scale (though it is within the settlement boundary); and the proposal is more than 50 homes. 7.28 Policy 16 part b) requires a “Statement of Community Benefit”. This information is available in the Planning Statement, Economic Benefits Summary, and the Design and Access Statement and set out that the development will improve community resilience with additional population, benefit to local business within the town centre, create employment opportunities and increase housing options. The details provided are considered acceptable. Policy 16 part c) supports the development of homes that improve affordability and fill any identified gaps in provision. This includes affordable Page 29
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homes (iv) and homes for older people (vi). These are both identified needs in the Council’s Local Housing Strategy. This part of the policy supports the proposal. Part e) of Policy 16 requires developments for new homes to include at least 25% affordable provision. The housing element of this proposal is indicated to be 100% affordable meaning it complies with this part of the policy. 7.29 Whilst the proposal does not wholly accord with Policy 16, the age of the adopted and proposed Local Plans must also be taken into account. Since the adoption of the Local Plan and examination of proposed LDP2 national planning policy has changed and National Planning Framework 4 has been adopted. NFF4 includes specific policies regarding town centre living and encourages proposals within the town centre to be in accordance with the Town Centre First Principle. The Town Centre First Principle asks that government, local authorities, the wider public sector, businesses and communities put the health of town centres at the heart of decision making. It seeks to deliver the best local outcomes, align policies and target available resources to prioritise town centre sites, encouraging vibrancy, equality and diversity. It is considered that the proposal will support the long-term town centre regeneration plans for Dumbarton Town Centre and will complement previously approved proposals for the regeneration within the Town Centre like Glencairn House. The proposals will provide significant enhancement to the area, which in turn will create a more attractive environment which will potentially encourage people to the Town Centre. Any increase in footfall will have a positive impact on the overall vitality and viability of the Town Centre. 7.30 It is therefore considered that there is strong support for a development of this description in this location. The proposal will provide significant benefit to the town centre, by allowing it to adapt positively to the long term economic environment, bring about significant and long term environmental benefit and bring people back into the town centre as a destination which supports a wide range of uses together with town centre living. It therefore rests to consider whether there are any other material planning considerations that suggest that the proposal would be unacceptable. Site Layout, Design and Appearance 7.31 The contribution of the development to the town centre in terms of layout, design and appearance, how this contributes to the six qualities of good placemaking and the wider benefits this can bring is also an important factor in assessing the application proposal. The site layout as indicated in the application in part remains as is, with the shopfronts remaining in situ and College Way retaining its current development pattern. The new landscaped square extends to an area of approximately 1600 square metres. Underground surface water attenuation crates which must avoid all other underground utilities will be provided below the new square. The new landscaping features to Collage Way also require to avoid existing utilities. However, their placement retains the strong through route along College Way and links the new square to the High Street via a high-quality public realm space which will provide a notable focal point within the town centre. 7.32 Phases 2 and 3 of the proposal are proposed to be located on plots freed up the initial demolition works. Block A/Plot A is located to the north of the site adjacent to Risk Street and is generally in line with previous development. Block B/Plot B is proposed as a four-storey Health Centre with circa 6000m2 of floor space. This is located on the west side of College Way and whilst it is stepped back from the current building line on College Way, its setting back allows for the public “square” are to be created. Page 30
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7.33 Block/Plot C is proposed to be located towards the north of the site on the east side of College Way. Again, this plot is located further back from the existing building line, however it setting back allows for a strong through route towards the train station. Block D remains retail with refurbishment and repurposing and is located on the west side of College Way. Block E is proposed to be consolidated retail with the introduction of affordable housing units through new extensions. These new extensions reflect the current layout of the Artizan Centre. 7.34 New developments require to be well designed, take cognisance of the setting into which they are introduced and provide a high-quality appearance. The design and access statement makes reference to a colour palette and materiality that have been developed to reference the heritage of the site and wider town. Dumbarton’s prolific glassmaking industrial heritage was clustered in the northeast of the town in an area known as ‘Artisan’. This legacy provides the namesake for the current Artizan Centre and provides a rich narrative to draw upon for the materiality concepts. Whilst defined materials are not proposed at this stage, approach of utilising warm tones and textures is indicated in the Design and Access Statement and this would be reflected in a palette of red, rust and light brown brick with feature elements like balconies, railing and spandrel panels of metal finished in heritage tones. It is clear that the proposed works will be a visual change to what is existing, but it is considered that the principle of the proposal the overall approach to design and layout together with the proposed materials and colours will add richness and interest to the significant benefit of the appearance of the town centre 7.35 The shopfronts along High Street are also within the Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area. The Conservation Area Appraisal for Dumbarton Town Centre particularly notes that the lack of quality in shop frontages and signage is extremely detrimental to the character and townscape of Dumbarton. The shopfronts in question are not within historic buildings, but rather a more recent shopping precinct development. Their replacement was considered under application DC24/081/FUL and the upgrade of the existing shopfronts with a high design quality and materials was considered to be a benefit to the appearance of both the Conservation Area and wider Town Centre. 7.36 Overall, it is considered that the approach to design, layout and use of materials indicated in the application will create a well-designed development which will address the six qualities of successful places by ensuring the layout and form of the development is appropriate, complying with policies GD1 and CP1 of the adopted and proposed Plans, as well as Policy 14 of NPF4. In addition, the proposal whilst bringing in new colour palettes and materials is appropriate within the Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area, in accordance with the policies relating to conservation areas and the historic environment. Whilst the detail of these matters will be fully assessed through future applications for AMSC, it is clear that a high- quality development can be created to the significant benefit of the wider town centre. Open space, landscaping and trees 7.37 Open space and landscaping are an integral part of phase 1 of this site which is already consented as part of the separate permission ref: DC24/081/FUL. Open space is created where buildings previously part of the Artizan Centre once sat. As the buildings that occupied the site previously were not residential and are outwith the boundary of the Conservation Area, their demolition did not require any application for consent in terms of Planning. Within the space created, a shelter structure is to be created. This is formed of a series of vertical elements which take design references from the structures of Dumbarton’s shipbuilding heritage. The shelter structure also features a sedum roof. Beyond the shelter structure is a Page 31
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proposed play space. This incorporates a variety of equipment for different ages and abilities and draws inspiration from Dumbarton’s connection to the water with sailboat and wave shaped play equipment. To the west of the shelter structure and play space is an area of landscaping is to be provided which also incorporates play in the form of logs and stepping stones. A ‘meanwhile’ area of landscaping is also currently consented within part of the current application site where buildings were demolished. This incorporates existing trees as well as hard and soft landscaping to create a maze pattern. The wider development of the site will build on this initial phase and there is nothing to suggest that the expectation that the detailed development that comes forward could not be appropriate and compliment this first phase of works. 7.38 There are a number of trees on the site currently. The applicant’s Arboricultural Impact Assessment identifies 17 trees which would be removed to accommodate the redevelopment of the site. The trees in question are generally ones within close proximity of the existing Artizan Centre buildings and the function of these trees was to provide part of the landscape setting of the Centre that occupied the site. They are not protected. Whilst five of these trees are identified as Category B trees, the majority are identified as Category C trees which are generally trees of lower quality and have a more limited lifespan. The Council’s Biodiversity Officer notes the importance of ensuring that tree replacement is fully considered in future AMSC applications to offset tree loss. The current application indicates new planting as part of the proposal is to be located centrally within College Way, as well as within a landscaped area surrounding the shelter structure and play space as well as within a “meantime” space which will temporarily be greened with the expectation that further development will occur on this space at some point in the future. The proposal includes an increase in the number of trees planted as well as shrub/perennial planting and wildflower grass seeding and amenity grass seeding in the “meantime space”. The increase in planting is in accordance with Policies relating to biodiversity as well as creating places. In addition, the Council has a specific policy relating to the temporary greening of spaces and as such the “meantime” space is in accordance with this policy. This will be fully considered through future AMSC’s as will the approach to tree replacement across all phases of the development. Details of how remaining trees are protected during construction can be addressed by condition. 7.39 In considering open space provision for residential developments, this is set out within Policy GI2 of proposed Local Development Plan 2 together with the Green Network guidance. Open space calculations together with the level of any contribution are based on the number of bedrooms provided. As this application is considered in principle, the final design and layout of the development inclusive of the detail of areas of open space together with the number of bedrooms in any residential property are not known at this stage. With the number of units suggested in the application, based on the standards set out, a notable area of open space would ordinarily be required. However, such an approach is not one which would generally follow the existing pattern of development within the town centre which is based on a higher density layout. Given the nature of the development and the wider area, the public realm works proposed and that residents choosing to live within a town centre area do so to benefit from the proximity of town centre services and transport links rather than to benefit from locally accessible open space, it must be considered if such an approach is appropriate in this instance. Given the above, together with the significant benefits that the wider development would bring to the town centre including significant economic benefits, it is concluded that a departure from the normal open space requirements and any associated developer contributions can be justified in this case. Residents within the town centre would also be able to benefit from the attractive waterfront walkway and associated green Page 32
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areas which lies nearby. It does not follow, however, that any residential development will have no outside area or associated landscaping. Areas such as drying greens together with landscaping to provide a setting for the new buildings will be expected and this will be considered as part of future applications and AMSC considering the detail of the development. Flooding and drainage 7.40 Considering flooding and drainage, the site has been identified as a location which is at risk of Coastal Flooding as shown on the SEPA Flood Maps and that the main factors contributing to coastal flooding within Dumbarton are the tide level, wind speed and direction. Coastal flooding frequently happens within the area when the tidal level is 3.6m and above with the wind direction coming from the southwest at 20mph and above. This results in the flooding of Riverside Lane and the car parking area only. For it to reach the site it would need to be significantly higher in tide level and wind speed. There has been one historic flooding event recorded affecting Dumbarton High Street. The coastal risk is confirmed by the applicant's flood risk assessment, which identifies the risk for a range of return periods and climate uplifts. 7.41 Policy 22 of NPF4 sets out to strengthen resilience to flood risk by promoting avoidance as a first principle and reducing the vulnerability of existing and future development to flooding. Development proposals at risk of flooding or in a flood risk area will only be supported in certain circumstances and part a) of Policy 22 sets out these circumstances. They are as follows: i. essential infrastructure where the location is required for operational reasons; ii. water compatible uses; iii. redevelopment of an existing building or site for an equal or less vulnerable use; or. iv. redevelopment of previously used sites in built up areas where the LDP has identified a need to bring these into positive use and where proposals demonstrate that long term safety and resilience can be secured in accordance with relevant SEPA advice. 7.42 Essential infrastructure is defined within the glossary of NPF4 and the proposal does not fit into the definition of essential infrastructure. Similarly, water compatible uses are defined within the glossary, and the proposal is not a water compatible use. Whilst the proposal includes the redevelopment of an existing site, the current uses within the site are classed as “least vulnerable” in accordance with the SEPA Flood Risk and Land Use Vulnerability Guidance. The proposed uses of residential and a health centre are classed as “highly vulnerable” and as such the site is not being used for an equal or less vulnerable use in accordance with part a) iii. 7.43 Part a) iv relates to the redevelopment of previously used sites in built up areas where the LDP has identified a need to bring these into positive use and where proposals demonstrate that long term safety and resilience can be secured in accordance with relevant SEPA advice. The Artizan centre is an underoccupied site in a built up area. The adopted Local Plan identifies the whole town centre, including the Artizan Centre, as a Regeneration Priority in Policy RP1. LDP2 designates the Artizan Centre as requiring improvement. The Development Strategy for Dumbarton also supports mixed use development of the town centre, including town centre living. Both the adopted Local Plan and LDP2 identify a need to bring the Artizan Centre into positive reuse. In this regard, the development partially meets part a) iv of the policy, but full compliance can only be achieved if it can be demonstrated that long term safety and resilience can be secured in accordance with relevant SEPA advice. Page 33
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7.44 The submitted Planning Statement and Flood Risk Assessment states that given the nature of the site and associated flood risk, it is not capable of being developed in a way that can be considered to be made safe and resilient in the long term. Specifically, the proposal is unable to meet the requirements of remaining both safe and operational during a flood event or providing safe and dry access and egress in event of a flood. This is situation is based on the worst-case scenario of flood risk increase caused by climate change as used by SEPA and comprising Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5. RCP refers to the expected concentration of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere by 2100. 7.45 The FRA makes the case that a more conservative RCP could be applied in this case as it is redevelopment of a brownfield site. Paragraph 4.118 of the Planning Statement summarises which of the Policy 22 a) requirements are met using different RCPs. An RCP of 4.5 would mean the proposal meets all the requirements listed in bullet points under Policy 22 part a). Under a RCP 6 scenario, it is not expected that safe access or egress can be achieved, but the development could remain operational. 7.46 In considering the proposal, SEPA are satisfied that with the further information submitted in respect of the FRA, the submissions meet the expected technical and reporting standards and this it enables an agreed understanding of the flood hazard. In their consultation response, SEPA state that had this been a like-for-like redevelopment of a commercial site, they would have no objection. However, the proposal introduces residential properties and a health centre both of which are “high vulnerability” to flooding. Given this and due to the flood risk of the site based on the scenario used by SEPA, they have objected to the proposal. Whilst the site is identified in the LDP as an area for regeneration it cannot be demonstrated that long term safety and resilience can be secured in accordance with relevant SEPA guidance and SEPA have objected in principle to the application. There are no formal flood protection schemes or one under construction and as such these cannot be taken into account. 7.47 In further assessing the proposal, the Council’s Roads Service were also consulted on flooding matters and consider that flood risk has been taken into account in the site design, with commercial development on the ground floor level and residential development on upper floors. It is however noted that as this is a planning permission in principle, that such details are not confirmed. The Roads Service further comment that the proposed health centre is located at the higher part of the site. The site is currently commercial, with existing units at risk of flooding, so commercial development on the ground floor would not increase the vulnerability to flooding, Residential units would be an increase in vulnerability, but the units would be above flood levels. 7.48 The Roads Service set out that whilst the objection from SEPA is acknowledged, it is noted that there is an existing flood risk to Dumbarton and the new development more explicitly takes into account future flood risk. The Roads Service advise that in considering the detail of the development, it a requirement that it is based on a flood resilient design and does not increase the existing flood risk to the surrounding area. In considering how a flood resilient design could be achieved, Policy 22 sets out further requirements for development that meets exception iv of part a). Whilst it is acknowledged that the development can’t be held to fully comply with Policy 22 a) with reference to exception iv, it remains that some of the further requirements of the Policy can be incorporated into the detailed design of the development. This includes the first occupied or utilised floor of the development being above the flood risk level with an additional allowance for freeboard underside of the development. It may be Page 34
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that the proposal demonstrates at later stages that no residential development will be located at ground level, however, due to the flood levels surrounding, an island of development would be created. With this approach, it is acknowledged that an island of development would potentially remain with safe, dry access and egress not being available at the height of a flood event. 7.49 It is acknowledged that the proposal does not accord fully with the criteria set out in Policy 22 of NPF4. However, the nature of the flood risk must also be considered and the flooding of this site in this case is coastal / tidal. This results in an increased ability to forecast flood events and flood warnings can generally be provided up to 48 hours in advance of a flood event caused by weather/pressure conditions offshore. A number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the application including commercial development limited to ground floor as at present, to ensure that there is no increase in vulnerability on the ground floor, development to include flood management measure such as internal resilience measures (such as raised plug sockets and electrics above flood level) property level protection (flood doors) and/or wider scale measures such as demountable flood walls around buildings, signing up to SEPA Fire of Clyde flood warnings and emergency management plan to be developed for wider area. It also remains that the SEPA position on flood risk is based on a worst case scenario and should a more conservative RCP be applied, the risk reduces. Full details of the mitigation approach can be addressed through future applications for AMSC. 7.50 Notwithstanding the flood risk mitigation that could be incorporated into the final design of the proposal and the lack of objection from the Council’s Roads Service on flooding matters, it remains that the proposal does not accord with all requirements of Policy 22 of NPF4 and the objection from SEPA on flooding grounds is acknowledged. However, and in accordance with the Scottish Government Chief Planner’s letter of 8th February 2023, NPF4 must be read and applied as a whole. The Chief Planner is clear that conflicts between policies are to be expected. Factors for and against development will be weighed up in the balance of planning judgement. In a further letter of 13th October 2025, the Chief Planner additionally advises that in assessing applications with reference to Policy 22, the Planning Authority must consider SEPA’s advice, alongside all other relevant NPF4 and local development plan policies and material considerations, before reaching a decision. It is further reiterated that policies in NPF4 should be read and applied as a whole and that some conflict between different policies is normal and to be expected. The Chief Planner goes on to advise that the planning system requires decision makers to weigh up all relevant policies, for example, quality homes, brownfield development and town centre living, as well as relevant material considerations in applying balanced planning judgement. 7.51 In this case, it is clear that the proposal is supported by many development plan policies and will have significant benefits to the town centre in redeveloping underused and vacant brownfield land, the creation of quality homes and town centre living, the overall vitality, viability and economic prosperity of the town centre and a significant benefit to placemaking and the overall quality of the appearance of the town centre together with providing an attractive place and destination to visit. This, together with the nature of the flood risk and its predictability, and the mitigation measure that could be incorporated into the final design and operation of the site justifies the development contrary to Policy 22 of NPF4. 7.52 Other matters such as how surface water drainage will be addressed inclusive of SuDS in accordance with Part c) of Policy 22 can be addressed as part of further applications for AMSC Page 35
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Residential Amenity 7.53 Whilst the immediate surrounding area is a busy town centre which is not predominantly residential, it is recognised that residential properties do exist within the town centre. Residential amenity can be affected in a number of ways. The application site is situated in a busy town centre location which already sees a significant level of noise and activity throughout the day and evening. Whilst residents choosing to reside within the town centre may benefit from the proximity of local shops, services and transport links, the same degree of residential amenity as would be experienced within a primarily residential area cannot be expected. There is nothing to suggest that the completed development would result in additional and unacceptable noise and activity within the town centre beyond the established position and to the detriment of existing residents. Any development project will produce noise and an element of disruption during the construction phase and this cannot be a determining factor in considering whether to grant planning permission. The consultation response from Environmental Health recommends conditions to mitigate against unacceptable construction noise and these are recommended to be attached to any consent. It is also recognised that the construction phase and any associated disruption will be short term in nature. 7.54 In regards to the residential amenity of the proposed development, the Council’s Environmental Health Service have concluded that noise is not considered to be a material constraint to the proposed development and suitable acoustic conditions can be achieved across the site subject to detailed design development in accordance with the Outline Planning Noise Assessment. The requirement for an updated noise impact assessment to be submitted as part of any application for AMSC addressing the detailed design together with mitigation requirements inclusive of suitable acoustic separation between commercial and residential uses and assessment of commercial noise impact on residential properties arising from the detailed design of the development. 7.55 There is nothing to suggest that a suitable design and separation of buildings could not be achieved in the detailed design of the development to ensure that matters relating to overlooking and overshadowing do not cause concern. This is a matter to be further considered via subsequent applications. 7.56 Subject to conditions, it is considered that the proposal will have no significant adverse impact on either existing residential amenity or the proposed residential amenity and therefore complies with policy H4 of the proposed Local Development Plan 2. Access, Parking and sustainable travel 7.57 The town centre location means the site is highly accessible with good connections to the surrounding area including footpath network and nearby bus stops and the train station. The site is approximately 0.5 miles or a 10 minute walk from Dumbarton train station, and connectivity between the locations is also scheduled to be improved through the Connecting Dumbarton project. From Dumbarton train station there are regular trains to other stations in West Dunbartonshire and to a range of other destinations including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Helensburgh, Oban and Fort William. National cycling route 7 runs through Dumbarton town centre, within 100 metres of the southern entrance of the Artizan Centre. There are a number of local bus routes which traverse the town centre together with services to Glasgow. A variety of bus stops are available including a bus stop just outside the Artizan Centre next to the site. It is clear that the development will be accessible from a wide variety of location and by means other than the private car. The proposed residential properties will also Page 36
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embrace the 20 minute neighbourhood concept given their central location adjacent to a wide range of local services and transport links. 7.58 The Council’s Roads Service have offered no objections to the principle of the proposed development and suggested conditions relating to servicing and parking for each of the components. Servicing and parking will require to be assessed in relation to National Roads Design Guide and West Dunbartonshire Council parking standards applicable at the time of subsequent applications for AMSC. Green and Active Travel Plans are also recommended at the detailed stage with any amendments to adopted areas requiring to be clarified. Should any stopping up or diversions or existing public roads or footways be required, this should be progressed and confirmed under the relevant planning legislation. A joint pre/post inspection of all publicly adopted areas and to ensure that they are retained in their existing condition is also recommended and all further necessary permits and permissions should be obtained prior to commencement of any works. Full details of the construction programme and detailed traffic management proposals should also be submitted in advance of any works. Subject to the above matters being addressed by either planning condition or advisory note where a planning condition is inappropriate, it is considered that the proposal is acceptable in respect of access, parking and sustainable travel. Built and Cultural Heritage 7.59 As noted above, part of the application site lies within Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area, and the potential impacts upon the Conservation Area are already considered in paragraphs 7.35 and 7.36 above . A number of listed buildings are located within the Town Centre, and in the vicinity of the application site. These include the Category A listed St Augustine’s Episcopal Church, and the former Dumbarton Academy Building (now Council Offices) as well as Category B listed Glencairn House. It is not considered that the proposal has any negative impact upon the setting of any of the listed buildings within the Town Centre and Historic Environment Scotland offer no objection on this basis. 7.60 Turning to archeological matters, the West of Scotland Archeology Service (WoSAS) advise that the elements of the proposal that would require ground disturbance have the potential to intersect with significant historic period settlement remains, should these survive within the footprint of the areas affected. The requirement for the implementation of a programme of archaeological works in accordance with a written scheme of investigation is set out by WoSAS. This requirement can be addressed by condition. Ecology and biodiversity 7.61 Ecological issues are considered by the applicant in a preliminary ecological appraisal (PEA) inclusive of bat roost potential survey. No impacts in the Inner Clyde SPA, which is some considerable distance from the site, is identified in the PEA. The PEA notes that the area is dominated by a variety of buildings with scattered areas of amenity grassland, broadleaf trees and poor hedgerows. The site itself is identified as comprising primarily 1970s buildings, hardstanding, pockets of grassland, scattered trees, poor hedging and a bed or ornamental planting. Three buildings within the site are identified as having moderate bat roosting potential, one having low potential and a further four having negligible potential. No trees on site were considered to have the potential for roosting bats. It is identified that the site could support nesting birds. Overall the habitats within the site are considered to be of low to negligible ecological value. The Council’s biodiversity officer is content with the submission and offers no objections in respect of ecology matters. Following the recommendations set out in the PEA inclusive of follow up survey work prior to the commencement of development and the protection of nesting birds can be addressed by condition. With Page 37
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appropriate conditions, it is considered the development could progress without impact upon ecology, biodiversity and protected species. 7.62 The PEA also includes an outline biodiversity enhancement statement. Enhancement measures are recommended to include plants for pollinators and wildflower meadow planting, tree planting, green roofs, homes for birds, bees, bats and hedgehog being incorporated into the design. The Council’s Biodiversity officer notes the approach to biodiversity includes very suitable measures. The detail of how biodiversity enhancement is incorporated into the final design can be addressed by condition. Other Matters 7.63 The Ground Investigation Report provides an insight into what constraints may exist on this site, however the assessment is based on a limited dataset taken from a restricted investigation. As such it has been recommended as part of the consultation response from Environmental Health that conditions be applied regarding site investigation. The addition of these conditions will ensure that the proposal is in accordance with the relevant policies. An air quality assessment has been submitted by the applicant and this concludes that the site is suitable for the proposed development and future occupants and users will not be exposed to poor air quality. The assessment notes that the detailed development proposals will be accompanied by a detailed air quality assessment and this can be addressed by condition. 7.64 In regards to the timescale for the development, Section 59 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (as amended) allows for five years for subsequent planning application to be made and works started on site unless otherwise defined by the Planning Authority. In this instance, and following discussion with the applicant, it acknowledged and the development beyond phase 1 which is currently on site will be dependent on securing funding together with developers or development partners to take forward the development. With this in mind, it is considered appropriate to allow an extended period of time for works to commence on site following the submission of an application or applications for AMSC. In this case, a period of eight years rather than five is considered appropriate and the applicant has confirmed agreement with this approach. This would give the project more certainty and allow the further stages to be completed. Representations 7.65 One representation was received to the application. This related to landownership which is not in itself a material planning consideration. The landownership question was, however, discussed with the agent and applicant for the proposal. The points raised were addressed and an updated landownership certificate was submitted. 8. CONCLUSION 8.1 The proposed development seeks to tackle and address the decline of Dumbarton Town Centre and successfully gained Levelling Up funding (now known as the Local Regeneration Fund). It feeds into the Connecting Dumbarton project as well as the adjacent Glencairn House project as part of this. As part of the application for Levelling Up Funding to the UK Government in March 2021 it was stated that “The Artizan is in long-term decline, there are too few people living in the town centre and there is little to attract workers or visitors to spend time and money in the town centre. Town centre regeneration is required now to improve experience, grow activity and ensure Dumbarton’s future sustainability.” The application highlights that commercial vacancy rates in the core town centre peaked above 30% twice in the previous 5 years. At the time of the application 40% of the floorspace of the Artizan Centre was vacant, compared to a Scottish average town centre vacancy rate of 12%. Asking Page 38
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rents for retail property fell from £16 per sq. ft in 2014, to £10 in 2021. This reflected two issues, first the quality and attractiveness of commercial property, and second, a significant oversupply of commercial property, particularly retail, in the town. The 2021 Levelling Up Funding application also states that there are high levels of deprivation with Dumbarton West being in the top half of deprivation indices across Scotland. Low incomes and restricted housing availability are the main deprivation factors affecting the area. Education and health indicators are also low while crime indices across much of the town centre are high. These inhibit investment in premises, limit consumer demand and influence the nature of public and private services and the facilities required to sustain a successful town centre economy. 8.2 The site is partially within the ‘Clyde Mission’ area, identified as one of eighteen National Developments with National Planning Framework 4 which recognises that significant land assets are under-utilised across the Clyde, and that longstanding inequality, in relation to poor environment and health outcomes require to be tackled as a national priority. The Clyde Mission designation aims to repurpose and reinvigorate vacant and derelict land as well as adapting the area to the impacts of climate change, where nature-based solutions would be particularly supported. 8.3 A housing emergency was declared by West Dunbartonshire Council on the 1st of May 2024 amid unprecedented pressures on the ability to meet the needs of those in social housing or seeking a Council property. At the time the housing emergency was declared there were over 5,500 households on the Council’s housing waiting lists, 274 people living in temporary accommodation and over 1,000 homeless assessments being carried out. 8.4 The intent of Policy 27 of NPF4 is to encourage, promote and facilitate development in our city and town centres, recognising they are a national asset. This will be achieved by applying the Town Centre First approach to help centres adapt positively to long-term economic, environmental and societal changes, and by encouraging town centre living. Policy 27 specifically supports development proposals for residential development within town centres including new build developments. Policy 9’s intent is to encourage, promote and facilitate the reuse of brownfield, vacant and derelict land and empty buildings, and to help reduce the need for greenfield development. Policy 16’s intent is to encourage, promote and facilitate the delivery of more high quality, affordable and sustainable homes, in the right locations, providing choice across tenures that meet the diverse housing needs of people and communities across Scotland. 8.5 The Artizan Centre is an existing shopping centre which makes up a large proportion of Dumbarton Town Centre. It has been demonstrated through the successful Levelling Up Fund application that the Centre is in decline and that the provision of the current level of retail within the town centre is no longer viable and this is to the detriment of the wider town centre. Given that the current provision of retail is no longer sustainable, it leaves to be considered what other acceptable uses the land within the town centre could accommodate. Guided by Policy 27, the proposed uses of housing, a health centre together with restaurants, cafes, hot food takeaways, public houses, offices, leisure outdoor space and public realm works are in line with the Town Centre first approach and will bring renewed vitality to the town centre which is identified as a national asset both in its context as a Town Centre but also as partially within a Clyde Mission area. It is acknowledged that the site is not identified as housing site, however, given that the last adopted Local Plan was adopted in 2010, some 16 years ago, it does not reflect an up-to-date position and much has changed in these 16 years. The Artizan Centre is however highlighted as a development priority within the more recent proposed LDP2. Given the current Page 39
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housing crisis and the decline of the town centre, it is on balance considered that the principle of the development is therefore acceptable. It is also considered that an appropriate design and could be achieved which would positively contribute to the six qualities of successful places and bring a sense of renewal to the wider town centre. The appropriate conditions, the site could also be developed without detriment to residential amenity, built heritage, traffic and parking and ecology. 8.6 Notwithstanding the strong support for the development as set out above, it is acknowledged that the site is at risk of coastal flooding, as is approximately two thirds of the defined town centre of Dumbarton. The intent of Policy 22 of NPF4 is to strengthen resilience to flood risk by promoting avoidance as a first principle and reducing the vulnerability of existing and future development to flooding. It is further acknowledged that SEPA have objected in principle to the proposal under their duty under Section 1 of the Flood Risk Management (FRM) (Scotland) Act 2009 to reduce overall flood risk and promote sustainable flood risk management. SEPA’s response relates solely to flood risk ad no other comments on the relative merits of the development and SEPA recognise that consideration of other policy elements and circumstances is a matter for the Planning Authority. This is reflected in the Chief Planners letter as set out in paragraph 7.50 above that it falls to the Planning Authority to consider all policies and material considerations to reach a balanced planning conclusion. The applicant has undertaken significant work to demonstrate that the full flood risk of the site is understood and, despite the objection, SEPA accept that it is understood. In this case it can be concluded that the flood risk is fully understood, the Council’s Roads Service does not object to the proposal, that flooding of this area is coastal flooding and therefore highly predictable and also that there are mitigation measures which can be undertaken as set out in paragraph 7.49 above. 8.7 Overall, the development draws strong support from many development plan policies and also falls into the Clyde Misson National Development. It will have significant benefits to the town centre in redeveloping underused and vacant brownfield land, the creation of quality homes and town centre living, the overall vitality, viability and economic prosperity of the town centre and a significant benefit to placemaking and the overall quality of the appearance of the town centre together with providing an attractive place and destination to visit. Whilst fully acknowledging the concerns set out in the objection from SEPA, in considering the development plan as a whole together with the nature of the flood risk and its predictability, and the mitigation measures that can be incorporated into the final design and operation of the site, it can be concluded that the development can be considered acceptable despite being contrary to Policy 22 of NPF4. It is therefore recommended that Planning Permission in Principle be granted. 9. CONDITIONS 1. The development to which this permission relates must be commenced no later than eight years from the date of this permission. Reason: To be in compliance with Section 59(2A) (b) of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, as amended 2. That prior to the submission of the first application for the approval of matters specified by condition, a detailed phasing plan for the entire application site showing the relevant phases and anticipated timescales for the development of each phase, and the inter-relationship of the phases shall be submitted for the further approval of the Planning Authority. All applications for the approval of matters specified by Page 40
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condition shall thereafter either demonstrate compliance with the agreed phasing plan or include an updated phasing plan for approval. Development shall at all times proceed in accordance with the most up-to-date approved phasing plan unless otherwise first agreed in writing by the Planning Authority. Reason: To ensure the appropriate phasing for the comprehensive delivery of the development of the site. 3. No development shall commence within any phase of the development until such time as approval of the detailed design, layout and other matters associated with that development phase, (hereinafter called "the matters specified in conditions") has been granted by the Planning Authority. These matters are as follows: a. the siting, design, external appearance and external materials of all buildings and other structures, including floor plans and elevations. Full specifications of all materials must be submitted and samples submitted to the Planning Authority on request. the means of access to, and layout of, the site, including car parking provision inclusive of disabled bays, and the provision of electric vehicle charging, cycle parking provision and servicing arrangements in so far as is required. b. the details of, and timetable for, the implementation of the hard and soft landscaping for the site, including details of maintenance arrangements. c. full details of the design and location of all boundary walls and fences. d. details of existing and proposed site levels and site sections. e. details of flood mitigation measures. f. the provision of surface water drainage works incorporating Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). For the avoidance of doubt, the submitted details shall be in accordance with CIRIA C753, the SUDS Manual and Sewers for Scotland This shall also demonstrate that all surface water is intercepted within the site. g. the disposal of sewerage. h. details of the storage and collection of waste and recycling from the development. i. detailed information on biodiversity enhancement measures to be incorporated into the development. j. details of tree protection during the construction phase. k. full details of the incorporation of low and zero carbon infrastructure into the development. l. an updated noise impact assessment specifically considering the detail of the development comprising that phase and any required noise mitigation measures shall be submitted. m. an updated air quality assessment specifically considering the detail of the development comprising that phase and any required air quality mitigation measures shall be submitted. n. a detailed report on the extent, scale and nature of any contamination for each development parcel/phase shall be carried out with a detailed remediation strategy and implementation plan detailing the measures necessary to bring the site to a condition suitable for the intended use. o. A Green and Active Travel Plan. Reason: In order to ensure that the development is of an acceptable appearance and character and that all associated technical issues are addressed. 4. That as part of the first application for matters specified by condition as required in connection with condition 3, a site-wide water environment investigation and assessment shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority. Page 41
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The report shall be prepared by a suitably qualified person and as a minimum shall include the following: a. Suitable and sufficient monitoring from across the entire site in order to identify the extent, scale and nature of contamination with regards to the water environment. b. An appropriate level of assessment in accordance with current guidance that identifies the key receptors and the significance of any pollutant linkages found to be present. Should a significant pollutant linkage be identified on the site then a site wide preliminary remedial options appraisal is to be provided that demonstrates whereabouts on the site remediation is considered likely. Any measures identified in the report shall be implemented as approved within a timescale agreed with the Planning Authority. Reason: To protect the wider environment and to ensure that the site is suitable for its intended use. 5. If there is a requirement to either re-use site won material or to import material then the assessment criteria and sampling frequency that would adequately demonstrate its suitability for use shall be submitted to and approved by the Planning Authority prior to any material being re-used or imported. In addition to this and in accordance with BS3882:2015 and BS8601:2013, material to be used in the top 300mm shall also be free from metals, plastic, wood, glass, tarmac, paper and odours. On completion of the works and at a time and or phasing agreed by the Planning Authority, the developer shall submit a verification report containing details of the source of the material and appropriate test results to demonstrate its suitability for use. Reason: To protect public health and to ensure that the site is suitable for its intended use. 6. The presence of any previously unexpected contamination that becomes evident during the development of the site shall be reported to the Planning Authority in writing within one week, and work on the site shall cease. At this stage, if requested by the Planning Authority, an appropriate investigation and risk assessment shall be undertaken and a remediation scheme shall be submitted to and approved by the Planning Authority prior to the recommencement of site works. The approved details shall be implemented as approved. Reason: To protect public health and to ensure that the site is fit for its intended use. 7. That all surface water shall be intercepted within the site both during construction and on completion of the development. Full details of measures to ensure that surface water run-off is contained within the site shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority prior to the commencement of any works on site. The measures shall be implemented and maintained as approved. Reason: In the interest of management of surface water and drainage infrastructure. 8. Notwithstanding condition 3 above, no residential property shall be occupied until the contents of a Travel Information Pack which encourages reduced dependency on the private car by highlighting the location of local amenities, public transport services Page 42
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and active travel routes is submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority. Thereafter, on the occupation of each residential property, the approved Travel Information Pack shall be provided to new residents. Reason: In the interests of encouraging sustainable travel habits 9. That unless otherwise first agreed in writing by the Planning Authority as part of any application for maters specified by condition for any phase of the development, a Construction Traffic Management Plan shall be submitted which shall include, but shall not necessarily be limited to the following: a. A construction programme b. details of wheel washing and road cleaning; c. hours of operation of site traffic; d. construction vehicle routes; e. prohibited routes; f. hours of deliveries; g. access to the site; h. construction traffic signage; i. parking locations of construction vehicles, site operatives and contractors which shall include staff parking out with the public road. Thereafter, construction traffic shall be managed in accordance with the approved arrangements at all times unless first otherwise agreed in writing by the Planning Authority. Reason: To ensure all matters relating to construction traffic are managed in an appropriate manner in the interests of road and pedestrian safety. 10. That unless otherwise first agreed in writing by the Planning Authority as part of any application for maters specified by condition for any phase of the development, a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority. The CEMP shall include: a. A site specific CEMP outlining the details of all construction works and mitigation to be undertaken in relation to that phase together with an indicative timetable of activities. a. Hours of work associated with that phase for all works and ancillary operations (including piling) which are audible at the site boundary (or at such other place(s) as may first be agreed in writing with the Planning Authority) b. The hours of all delivery and other traffic arriving and leaving the site. c. A site waste management plan (dealing with all aspects of waste produced during the construction period) d. Details of the formation of the construction compound, welfare facilities, materials storage areas and stockpiles, car parking, compound lighting and boundary fencing e. A drainage management strategy for the site and a detailed drainage f. management plan, addressing the management of surface, ground and wastewater arising during construction. This shall demonstrate that all surface water is intercepted within the site during the construction period. g. Details for the sewage disposal and/or treatment from onsite welfare facilities The CEMP for each phase of the development shall thereafter be implemented on site as approved unless otherwise first agreed in writing by the Planning Authority. Page 43
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Reason: To ensure that construction is undertaken in an appropriate manner and to protect the amenity of nearby residents during the construction period. 11. No piling works shall be carried out until a method statement has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority. This statement shall include an assessment of the impact of the piling on surrounding properties, taking into account the guidance contained in BS 6472-1: 2008 'Evaluation of Human Response to Vibration in Buildings'. It shall detail any procedures which are proposed to minimise the impact of noise and vibration on the occupants of surrounding properties. This statement shall be prepared by a suitably qualified person, and the piling works shall thereafter be carried out in accordance with the approved method statement. Reason: To minimise noise and disturbance to neighbouring residents/occupants during construction. 12. Unless otherwise approved in writing by the Planning Authority, no development shall commence on site until such time as a scheme for the control and mitigation of dust has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority. The scheme shall identify likely sources of dust arising from the development or its construction and shall identify measures to prevent or limit the occurrence and impact of such dust. The approved scheme shall thereafter be implemented fully prior to any of the identified dust generating activities commencing on site and shall be maintained thereafter, unless otherwise approved by the Planning Authority. Reason: To minimise the occurrence of dust, in the interests of the amenity of the area. 13. That as part of the first application for matters specified by condition as required in connection with condition 3, full details of the implementation of a programme of archaeological works in accordance with a written scheme of investigation be submitted for consideration by the Planning Authority in consultation with the West of Scotland Archaeology Service. Thereafter the developer shall ensure that the programme of archaeological works is fully implemented as agreed and that all recording and recovery of archaeological resources within the development site is undertaken to the satisfaction of the Planning Authority in agreement with the West of Scotland Archaeology Service. Reason: In the interests of the recording of antiquity. 14. All recommendations set out in Chapter 5 of the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report dated 21st February 2024 shall be followed to the satisfaction of the Planning Authority inclusive of the requirement for further survey work as may be required to inform any future application for approval of matters specified by condition under condition 3 above. Reason: In the interests of the protection of biodiversity. 15. Prior to the occupation of the first residential property within the site, the developer shall install the necessary infrastructure to enable the full development and all associated properties to be connected to the existing fibre optic network, where available in West Dunbartonshire, and in accordance with the relevant telecommunications provider’s standards. Reasons: In the interests of providing effective telecommunications connections. Page 44
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Michael Mulgrew Planning, Building Standards and Environmental Health Manager Date: 3rd June 2026 Person to Contact: Michael Mulgrew, Planning & Building Standards Manager Email: Michael.Mulgrew@west-dunbarton.gov.uk James McColl, Development Management Team Leader Email: James.McColl@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendix: Location Plan Background Papers: 1. Application forms and plans 2. Representation 3. Consultation responses 4. National Planning Framework 4 5. West Dunbartonshire Local Plan 2010 6. Proposed West Dunbartonshire Local Development Plan 2 2020, as amended 7. Creating Places Guidance (2022) 8. Green Network and Green Infrastructure Supplementary Guidance (2022) 9. Dumbarton Town Centre Conservation Area Appraisal 10. Historic Environment Policy for Scotland 11. Historic Environment Scotland Managing Change in the Historic Environment Guidance Notes on Setting, External Walls and Shopfronts Wards affected: Ward 3 (Dumbarton) Page 45
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West Dunbartonshire Council 16 Church Street Dumbarton G82 1QL Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. (C) Crown copyright and database right 2025. All rights reserved. West Dunbartonshire Council OS License Number AC0000818098 Date: 20 May 2026 DC24/108/PPP Erection of residential-led (Class 8, Class 9 and sui generis) mixed use development including Class 1A (Retail), Class 3 (Restaurants and cafes), sui generis hot food takeaways/public houses, Class 4 (Office), Class 10 (Non-residential institutions) and Class 11 (Leisure) with associated outdoor space and public realm works, access, landscaping, parking and infrastructure. Artizan Centre College Way Dumbarton Page 46
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Chief Officer - Resources Council: 17 June 2026 Subject: Financial Update 1. PURPOSE 1.1 To provide an update on the financial challenges facing the Council and the estimated 2027/28 – 2031/32 revenue budget gaps. 1.2 This is the first financial update since the 2026/27 budget was set on 4 March 2026 and rolls forward previous estimates as well as updating assumptions. The assumptions will continue to be refined as the financial year progresses. 2. RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 Members are asked to note the updated position regarding projections for the Council’s estimated revenue budget gaps in 2027/28-2031/32, particularly the updated estimated mid-range 2027/28 budget gap of £10.005m. 3. BACKGROUND 3.1 On 4 March 2026, the Council agreed a balanced 2026/27 revenue budget, a revised capital budget and revenue estimates for 2027/28-2030/31. That budget report highlighted estimated future year budget gaps based on a range of assumptions including future Scottish Government funding, inflation and future interest rates. The consequences of the decisions taken by Council on 4 March to agree a balanced 2026/27 budget reduced the cumulative estimated future budget gap in the mid-range as set out in Exhibit 1. Exhibit 1 – Future Year Estimated Cumulative Budget Gaps (Mid-Range 4 March 2026 Budget Budget Gap 27/28 £000 28/29 £000 29/30 £000 30/31 £000 Mid-Range Gap Before Council Decisions 16,401 31,027 40,897 49,826 Management Adjustments (775) (775) (775) (775) Saving Options (2,586) (2,888) (2,888) (2,888) Council Tax Increase (3,541) (3,541) (3,541) (3,541) HSCP Funding 1,140 1,140 1,140 1,140 West Dunbartonshire Leisure Pay 234 234 234 234 Council Growth Items 32 32 32 32 Mid-Range Gap After Council Decisions 10,905 25,229 35,099 44,028 ITEM 9 Page 47
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4. MAIN ISSUES 4.1 Since the budget was agreed on 4 March 2026, a further year has been added to the budget outlook to take it to 2031/32 and the key assumptions and cost pressures detailed in the Council Budget paper have been revisited. This is summarised in the paragraphs below. 4.2 Scottish Government Finance Settlement The 4 March 2026 report advised that assumptions in relation to future year Scottish Government funding were for a flat cash assumption. This being based on the Scottish Government three-year spending review which illustrated that local government funding is expected to decrease slightly (0.07%) over the three-year period 2026/27-2028/29. On that basis I am assuming: • Best Case – 0.5% increase • Mid-Range – Flat Cash • Worst Case – 0.5% decrease Future Scottish Government funding levels is one of the key assumptions within the Finance Update. While it is considered good practice to prepare longer term financial plans it is challenging to do so with great accuracy due to single year Scottish Government finance settlements. 4.3 Changes to Base Budget There has been one change to the Council’s base budget since the 4 March 2026 Budget report to Council. 4.4 Base Budget Adjustment 1 – Estimated Reduction in Strathclyde Pension Fund Contributions (£1.800m Favourable) The next formal actuarial valuation of the Strathclyde Pension Fund will be carried out as at 31 March 2026 and reported in 2027. This will establish contribution requirements for the subsequent 3-year period. Based on the reported funding position in relation to the Fund it is anticipated the contribution rate will decrease from the 17.5% currently budgeted for. However, this is not certain and will depend on the valuation. I have assumed no change in the worst-case scenario, a reduction to 15% in the mid-range scenario (£1.800m) and a reduction to 13% in the best-case scenario (£3.400m). These estimates will be updated throughout the year as more information becomes available. Cost Pressures 4.5 Generally services work on the basis of having to contain any cost pressures Page 48
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within current resources, however, there are cost pressures which are unavoidable and need to be factored into future budget processes. There has been two new cost pressures identified since the 4 March 2026 Budget report to Council. 4.6 Cost Pressure 1 – Loan Charges (£0.600m Adverse) The finance team update their estimates for loan charges on an annual basis (usually in October) to ensure future budget estimates are based on the most up to date projections of future interest rates and the Council’s borrowing requirements (linked to the capital plan). This exercise will be carried out in October 2026 with the outcome reported to Council in December however it is already evident that interest rates are not decreasing at the rates previously predicted with geopolitical issues in the Middle East being a key reason. On that basis a prudent measure has been taken to create a £0.600m cost pressure at the current time which can be adjusted after the October review is conducted. 4.7 Cost Pressure 2 – General Services Bad Debt Provision (£0.300m Adverse) Finance has carried out a review of the provision for anticipated bad debt which has concluded there is insufficient budget available for it. The need to add £0.300m is not a consequence of a sudden increase in bad debt but more of a cumulative impact of bad debt increasing over a number of years. This cost pressure is required to right size the budget to reflect that cumulative impact. Employee Costs 4.8 There have been no changes to assumptions about the extent to which the Council will need to fund future pay awards. For 2027/28 a planning assumption of the Council having to fund 3% of any pay award has been applied in the best case and mid-range scenarios (already built into the estimated budget gap), with 4% assumed in the worst-case scenario. Each 1% over 3% would increase the gap by a further £1.869m. Revised Mid-Range Estimated Budget Gap 4.9 Exhibit 2 sets out the revised cumulative estimated budget gap in the range for 2027/28 to 2031/32. Exhibit 2 illustrates that, in the mid-range scenario the Council are faced with a budget gap of £10.005m in 2027/28 rising cumulatively to £52.161m in 2031/32. Page 49
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Exhibit 2 – Revised Mid-Range Estimated Budget Gaps (Cumulative Para Ref 2027/28 £000 2028/29 £000 2029/30 £000 2030/31 £000 2031/32 £000 Budget Gap 5 March 3.1 10,905 25,229 35,099 44,028 53,061 Reduction in Pension Contributions 4.4 (1,800) (1,800) (1,800) (1,800) (1,800) Loan Charges 4.6 600 600 600 600 600 Bad Debt Provision 4.7 300 300 300 300 300 Revised Budget Gap 10,005 24,329 34,199 43,128 52,161 Best Case / Mid-Range and Worst Case Analysis 4.10 There are three material assumptions in the current budget gap forecast set out in Exhibit 2 which will have a material impact on the forecast gap if the assumptions prove to be materially different from what transpires. These are: • Para 4.2 - Each 0.5% change to local government settlement would change the settlement by £1.336m • Para 4.4 – Impact of pension reduction to 15% not happening (add £1.800m to gap) or further decreasing to 13% (saving of £1.600m) • Para 4.8 – Impact of Council contribution to pay awards increasing from 3% to 4% in worst case scenario (increase gap by £1.869m) Exhibit 3 sets out a best case, mid-range and worse case analysis for these three assumptions. Exhibit 3 – Best Case, Mid-Range and Worst-Case Summary Scenario 2027/28 £000 2028/29 £000 2029/30 £000 2030/31 £000 2031/32 £000 Best Case 7,069 21,393 31,263 40,192 49,225 Mid-Range 10,005 24,329 34,199 43,128 52,161 Worst Case 13,212 27,536 37,406 46,335 55,368 Other Issues 2027/28 Budget Process 4.11 Given the scale of the financial challenge facing the Council in 2027/28 and future years, it is important that early progress is made to identify saving options with momentum on this maintained between now and setting the Page 50
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budget in March 2027. The Senior Leadership Team will shortly commence this process and continue to meet periodically to develop saving options which will be presented to members for their consideration at an appropriate time. 4.12 Health and Social Care Partnership Requisition The Council, at the budget meeting on 4 March 2026, agreed an HSCP requisition of £97.736m. There is a working assumption that the future allocation to the HSCP is on the basis of ‘flat cash’ plus the appropriate share of the Health & Social Care funding commitments made by the Scottish Government. However, this is only an assumption and the HSCP requisition will be a matter for Council to consider as part of the budget process. 4.13 Council Tax The estimated budget gap makes no assumption over future Council Tax increases as setting Council Tax is subject to a political decision when agreeing the budget in March 2027. However, by means of illustration a 10% Council Tax increase would generate an additional £4.980m and increase the weekly bill for a Band D taxpayer by £3.23 (assuming they are liable for the full Council Tax charge). 4.14 Fees and Charges In 2026/27 an increase of 5% was applied to fees and charges. The current assumption built into the estimated future budget gaps is an annual increase of 5% in all three scenarios (best case, mid-range and worst case). Every 1% increase beyond 5% would generate an estimated £0.057m in revenue. 5. PEOPLE IMPLICATIONS 5.1 None directly from this report but there is a strong link between HR and budgets. 6. FINANCIAL AND PROCUREMENT IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Sets out the estimated revenue budget gaps in 2027/28 to 2030/31. There are no direct procurement implications arising from this report. 7. RISK ANALYSIS Page 51
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7.1 None directly from this report but any proposals to address the estimated budget gap will need to consider risk. 8. EQUALITIES IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) 8.1 None directly from this report but any proposals to address the estimated budget gap will need to consider equality issues. 9. CONSULTATION 9.1 The views of all Chief Officers have been requested on this report and feedback incorporated herein. 10. STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT 10.1 Proper budgetary control and sound financial practice are cornerstones of good governance and support Council and officers to pursue the strategic priorities of the Council’s Strategic Plan. 10.2 The General Services revenue budget contributes to all categories by providing funding in specific areas to help the Council achieve and develop these priorities. Laurence Slavin Chief Officer - Resources Date: 01 June 2026 Person to Contact: Laurence Slavin, Chief Officer - Resources E-mail: laurence.slavin@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Background Papers Budget Report to Council - 4 March 2026 Page 52
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by the Chief Officer – Resources Council – 17 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Subject: General Services Revenue Budgetary Control Report to 31 March 2026 (Draft Outturn) 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this report is to advise Council on the draft outturn position of the 2025/26 Revenue Budget and the level of the General Fund Reserve as at 31 March 2026. 2. Recommendations 2.1 Council is asked to: I. note the overall favourable variance (underspend) on the General Fund Revenue Budget of £7.236m, an improvement in forecast of £4.090m since last reported (£3.146m). II. note a projected favourable variance (underspend) on the General Services Delivery Budget of £1.797m (0.60% of total budget), an improvement in forecast of £2.108m since last reported (£0.311m adverse at period 10). III. note a projected in-year use of earmarked reserves of £3.027m, offset by a transfer in of £8.439m to earmarked reserves and a transfer from unearmarked reserves of £1.173m thus increasing the overall forecast earmarked balance to £15.406m. IV. approve the transfer from free reserves of £2.260m to the Early Severance/Voluntary Early Retirement Reserve and £1.180m to the Smoothing Fund. 3. Background 3.1 The revised 2025/26 revenue budget presented to Council in March was £313.821m. 4. Main Issues Service Delivery Position 4.1 The summary report at Appendix 1 highlights a projected favourable variance (underspend) against General Services Delivery of £1.797m (0.60% of the total budget) and an overall favourable variance of £7.236m. This represents a £4.090m improvement in the position reported at P10. This is detailed in the table below. Appendix 2 provides more detailed service reports by Chief Officer, with explanations for the overspend provided in Appendix 3. ITEM 13 Page 53
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£m £m Variance at Period 10 (3.146) Movement in Variance Resources: • Adverse variance due to an increase in iWorld Other favourable variances across the service • Favourable variance throughout service due to vacancies 0.120 (0.125) (0.005) Regulatory & Regeneration: • Increase in income within Licensing & planning (0.227) (0.227) People & Technology: • Favourable variance in Information Services due to phased telephony migration and ISDN transition to BT, alongside lower software costs from the M365 renewal and savings on printer leases and copies. • Favourable variance in Strategic People and Change mainly due to decreased cost of Occupational Health • Favourable variance across employee costs (0.147) (0.067) (0.029) (0.243) Education: • Favourable variance Specialist Education Provision due to reduction in transport recharge and lower inter-authority placement expenditure • Favourable variance Primary & Secondary schools due to recharge to Early years for shared campus facilities • Adverse Early Education due to higher than anticipated net cross-boundary charges and employee costs slightly greater. • PPP Favourable variance due to reduction in banked hours payment • Favourable variance Education Development as a result of no year end recharge to Counselling for a principal teacher following retirement • Favourable variance across other service areas (0.621) (0.126) 0.230 (0.067) (0.077) (0.028) (0.689) Roads & Neighbourhood: • Reduction in Waste Collection costs • Adverse Grounds Maintenance and Street Cleaning as a result of less income due to changes in programme of works • Favourable variance Roads Services due to vacancies and additional income from the service undertaking additional work for internal (0.270) 0.112 (0.246) Page 54
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services • Other adverse variance mainly as a result of under recovery of income 0.029 (0.433) Miscellaneous Services: • Underspend on unfunded pension costs & apprenticeship levy • Underspend on empty property costs • Underspend on payments to other bodies • Procurement savings not achieved • Increase in the Provision for Legal Fees (0.183) (0.176) (0.229) 0.435 0.450 0.297 Requisitions: • Underspend on VJB requisition (0.053) (0.053) Citizens, Culture and Facilities: • Additional payment to WDLT for Skypoint Security • Lower income from Early Years (Catering & Building Cleaning) • Misc Employee Costs 0.047 0.048 0.015 0.110 Housing and Employability: • Additional income received for resettlement (0.866) (0.866) Total Movement in Service Delivery variance (2.109) Non Service Budgets: • Underrecovery of central support costs due to reduced staff costs in the Central Support model due to the temporary reduction in pension costs. • Application of the general capital grant to absorb the principal cost of loan charges where statutory mitigation allows. 0.102 (1.561) (1.459) Total Movement in Non-Service Budget (1.459) Income: • Additional Council Tax Income (0.522) (0.522) General Fund variance on outturn at Period 12 (7.236) 4.2 Information on any projected annual variances in excess of £0.050m after the use of earmarked reserves, are highlighted and noted within Appendix 3. Earmarked Reserve Position 4.3 During 2025/26, services made use of £3.027m of earmarked reserves (Period 10: £2.601m). Information on the earmarked reserve spend and transfers in are shown in Appendix 4. Appendix 4 has been updated to reflect decisions agreed by Council on 4 March 2026, including earmarking of reserves to balance the 2026/27 budget and agreed use of the Cost of Living Fund. Page 55
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4.4 Appendix 5 shows the latest position in respect of Unallocated and Earmarked Reserves following the budget agreed on 4 March 2026 and shows the (draft) balance as at 31 March 2026. This is summarised in the table below. Unearmarked Balance (£m) Earmarked Balance (£m) Total General Fund Reserves (£m) As at 31 March 2025 3.451 8.821 12.272 In-year service use of reserves 0 (3.027) (3.027) Transfer to EMR 0 8.439 8.439 Transfer to/(from) general reserve 7.236 0 7.236 Total In-year movement as at Period 12 10.687 14.233 24.920 Transfer to/(from) reserves (1.173) 1.173 0 Balance as at 31 March 2026 9.514 15.406 24.920 4.5 At the budget setting meeting on the 6 March 2024 the decision was taken to use £3.077m of the Early Severance/Voluntary Early Retirement Reserve (ER/VER) temporarily to balance the budget which was to be replenished in future years. In 2025/26 the ER/VER Reserve was replenished by £1.192m. Therefore it is proposed to top up the ER/VER Reserve with a further £1.885m plus an additional £0.375m to provide resilience in future years. This increase of £2.26m is equivalent to twice the amount charged to the reserve during 2025/26. 4.6 A £6m Smoothing Fund was created in 2022/23 for a three year service transformation programme to provide time to implement approved savings options. At the budget setting meeting on 1 March 2023 Council agreed to use £3m of the Smoothing Fund to balance the budget. Over the past three years an average of £0.785m per year has been used leaving a residual balance of £0.654m in the reserve. Further savings will be required in future years to balance the budget and it is proposed to top up the balance by £1.180m to provide continued support to provide time to implement savings. 4.7 If the top up of the ER/VER reserve and the Smoothing Fund are approved then the Earmarked Reserve Balance would increase to £18.846m and the Unearmarked balance would decrease to £6.074m. This is £0.605m over the prudential target agreed on 4 March 2026 of £5.469m. Monitoring of Efficiencies 4.8 A list of agreed efficiencies and management adjustments totalling £6.017m is shown within Appendix 6. The appendix indicates that £5.513m was achieved. However, Appendix 6 also shows that £0.504m was not achieved and was funded in year by the smoothing fund. Page 56
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5. Option Appraisal 5.1 No option appraisal was required for this report. 6. People Implications 6.1 There are no people implications. 7. Financial and Procurement Implications 7.1 The report notes the projected in-year financial position for the General Services revenue budget. 8. Risk Analysis 8.1 The 25/26 outturn is presented as draft and may change as a result of the audit of 25/26 financial statements. 9. Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) 9.1 No equalities impact assessment was required in relation to this report. 10. Environmental Sustainability 10.1 No assessment of environmental sustainability was required in relation to this report. 11. Consultation 11.1 All services involved in delivering the revenue and capital budgets have been consulted in the compilation of this report. 12. Strategic Assessment 12.1 Proper budgetary control and sound financial practice are cornerstones of good governance and support Council and officers to pursue the strategic priorities of the Council’s current Strategic Plan. This report forms part of the financial governance of the Council. __________________ Laurence Slavin Chief Officer – Resources Date: 02 June 2026 __________________________________________________________________ Person to Contact: Carol Alderson. Finance Manager Council Offices, Church Street, Dumbarton E-mail: carol.alderson@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Page 57
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Appendices: Appendix 1 - Revenue Budgetary Control 2025/26 – Corporate Summary; Appendix 2 - Revenue Budgetary Control 2025/26 – Chief Officer Summaries; Appendix 3 - Analysis of Revenue Variances over £50,000; Appendix 4 - Monitoring of Earmarked Balances Appendix 5 - Reconciliation of General Fund Reserves Appendix 6 - Monitoring of Efficiencies Background Papers: • Ledger output – Period 12; • General Services Revenue Estimates 2025/26 Wards Affected All Wards Page 58
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 1 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 SUMMARY PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 Resources 4,880 6,544 1,664 34.1% 663 1,001 Regulatory and Regeneration 5,213 4,893 (320) -6.1% 218 (538) People & Technology 10,460 10,135 (325) -3.1% 15 (340) Citizens, Culture and Facilities 18,776 19,029 253 1.3% 240 13 Education, Learning and Attainment 138,396 138,842 446 0.3% 359 87 Roads and Neighbourhood 18,125 18,099 (26) -0.1% 347 (373) 908 (227) (1,135) -125.0% 0 (1,135) Miscellaneous Services 7,920 8,645 725 9.2% 1,184 (459) Requisition (VJB) 880 827 (53) -6.0% 0 (53) Requisition (SPT) 1,611 1,611 (0) 0.0% 0 0 Requisition (HSCP) 94,103 94,103 (0) 0.0% 0 0 General Services Delivery sub-total 301,272 302,501 1,229 0.4% 3,027 (1,797) Non-Service Budgets Loan Charges 16,708 11,657 (5,051) -30.2% 0 (5,051) Suspense Transfer to Reserves 0 (3,062) (3,062) 0.0% (3,062) 0 Transfer to Reserves re SPFO reductions 4,294 (408) (4,702) -109.5% (4,702) 0 Non GAE Allocation (8,453) (7,701) 752 -8.9% 0 752 Non-Service Budget sub-total 12,549 486 (12,063) -96.1% (7,764) (4,299) Total Expenditure 313,821 302,987 (10,834) -3.5% (4,737) (6,096) Council Tax (45,426) (45,949) (523) 1.2% 0 (523) Revenue Support Grant (175,591) (176,208) (617) 0.4% 0 (617) Non Domestic Rates (84,737) (84,737) 0 0.0% 0 0 Central Government Funding (1,672) (2,347) (675) 40.4% (675) 0 Use of reserves (6,395) (6,395) 0 0.0% 0 0 Total Resources (313,821) (315,636) (1,815) 0.6% (675) (1,140) Net Expenditure (0) (12,649) (12,648) 0.0% (5,412) (7,236) Department Summary Variance Housing and Employability General Services Delivery Page 59
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 RESOURCES SUMMARY PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 291 195 (96) -33% 0 (96) 1,538 1,521 (17) -1% 32 (49) 2,201 2,188 (13) -1% 0 (13) 2,424 3,019 594 25% 427 167 437 436 (1) 0% 0 (1) (29) (68) (39) 138% 0 (39) (1,072) (905) 167 -16% 0 167 1,195 1,193 (1) 0% 0 (1) (2,050) (980) 1,070 -52% 204 866 (55) (56) (1) 2% 0 (1) 4,880 6,544 1,663 34% 663 1,001 Variance Service Summary Service / Subjective Summary Finance Service Centre Audit Revenues & Benefits Total Net Expenditure Finance Cost of Collection of Council Tax Cost of Collection of Rates Rent Rebates & Allowances Corporate Asset Maintenance Office Accommodation Corporate Assets Page 61
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 REGULATORY AND REGENERATION SUMMARY PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 1,609 1,556 (53) -3% 0 (53) 575 458 (117) -20% 0 (117) (221) (275) (54) 25% 0 (54) 885 850 (35) -4% 0 (35) 557 505 (52) -9% 218 (270) 605 622 18 3% 0 18 Economic Development 1,204 1,178 (26) -2% 0 (26) 5,213 4,893 (320) -6% 218 (538) Variance Total Net Expenditure Service / Subjective Summary Service Summary Procurement Democratic and Registration Service Legal Services/Trading Standards Licensing Environmental Health Planning Page 62
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 PEOPLE AND TECHNOLOGY PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 902 906 4 0% 0 4 1,863 1,806 (56) -3% 2 (58) 5,093 4,908 (185) -4% 0 (185) Central Administration Support 2,602 2,502 (100) -4% 0 (100) 0 13 13 0% 13 0 10,460 10,135 (324) -3% 15 (339) Variance Total Net Expenditure Transactional Services Provision for Legal Fees & Settlements Information Services Strategic People and Change Service / Subjective Summary Service Summary Page 63
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 CITIZENS, CULTURE AND FACILITIES PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 277 301 23 8% 16 7 1,386 1,351 (35) -3% 0 (35) 241 226 (15) -6% 0 (15) Clydebank Town Hall 339 331 (8) -2% 0 (8) Libraries 1,833 1,757 (76) -4% 0 (76) Arts and Heritage 306 192 (114) -37% 0 (114) Catering Services 5,077 5,557 480 9% 11 468 Building Cleaning 2,080 2,110 30 1% 0 30 Building Cleaning PPP (105) (145) (40) 38% 0 (40) Facilities Assistants 2,665 2,474 (191) -7% 0 (191) Facilities Management 455 560 106 23% 150 (44) Events 28 38 10 36% 0 10 Leisure Management 4,094 4,176 83 2% 62 21 School Crossing Patrollers 99 100 1 1% 0 1 18,776 19,029 253 1% 240 13 Variance Total Net Expenditure Citizen Services Service / Subjective Summary Service Summary Communications & Marketing Performance & Strategy Page 64
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 EDUCATION, LEARNING AND ATTAINMENT PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 Primary Schools 35,041 35,101 60 0% 0 60 Secondary Schools 35,876 35,913 37 0% 124 (87) Specialist Educational Provision 23,471 23,724 253 1% 35 218 Psychological Services 686 683 (2) 0% 0 (2) Sport Development / Active Schools 627 627 (0) 0% 0 (0) Early Education 19,346 19,729 383 2% 0 383 PPP 18,373 18,145 (228) -1% 0 (228) Creative Arts 622 620 (2) 0% 30 (32) Curriculum for Excellence 72 72 0 0% 0 0 Central Admin 967 1,058 91 9% 100 (8) Workforce CPD 289 282 (6) -2% 0 (6) Performance & Improvement 488 490 2 0% 0 2 Education Development 2,539 2,398 (141) -6% 70 (211) 138,396 138,842 446 0% 359 88 Variance Service Summary Service / Subjective Summary Total Net Expenditure Page 65
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ROADS AND NEIGHBOURHOOD PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 Transport, Fleet & Maintenance Services (99) 0 99 -100% 0 99 Roads Services 2,329 2,261 (68) -3% 150 (218) Outdoor Services 300 241 (59) -20% 0 (59) Burial Grounds (245) (201) 44 -18% 0 44 Crematorium (1,072) (843) 229 -21% 0 229 Waste Services 10,074 9,888 (186) -2% 0 (186) Depots 0 0 0 0% 0 0 Ground Maintenance & Street Cleaning 4,799 4,797 (2) 0% 16 (18) Shared Prosperity Fund (0) (0) 0 0% 0 0 Working 4 U 2,039 1,957 (82) -4% 181 (263) 18,125 18,099 (25) 0% 347 (372) Service / Subjective Summary Service Summary Variance Total Net Expenditure Page 66
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 HOUSING AND EMPLOYABILITY PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 Homelessness Services 837 737 (100) -12% 0 (100) Resettlement Services 0 (964) (964) 0% 0 (964) Private Sector Housing 16 17 1 6% 0 1 Private Sector Housing Grant 43 44 1 2% 0 1 Energy Efficiency Scotland Area Based Scheme 0 0 0 0% 0 0 Anti Social Behaviour & CCTV 305 234 (71) -23% 0 (71) Housing Maintenance Trading Organisation (293) (295) (2) 1% 0 (2) 908 (227) (1,135) -125% 0 (1,135) Variance Total Net Expenditure Service / Subjective Summary Service Summary Page 67
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 MISCELLANEOUS PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Total Budget Actual Spend Use of Earmarked Reserves Variance after the use of Earmarked Reserves Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % £000 £000 6,768 7,468 700 10% 1,184 (484) 1,152 1,177 25 2% 0 25 7,920 8,645 725 9% 1,184 (460) Variance Total Net Expenditure Service / Subjective Summary Chief Executive and Chief Officers Service Summary Sundry Services Page 68
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % Audit 291 195 0 (96) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Revenues & Benefits 2,424 3,019 427 167 7% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Cost of Collection of Council Tax (1,072) (905) 0 167 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Corporate Assets (2,050) (980) 204 866 -42% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Democratic and Registration Service 1,609 1,556 0 (53) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Environmental Health 575 458 0 (117) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance This service provides asset and estate management £250k adverse variance due to asset rationalisation, with property disposals that were previously rental‑income‑generating now contributing capital receipts to the wider budget position. The variance also now reflects £262k of Storm Eowyn damage, which cannot be absorbed within the remaining repairs and maintenance budget due to the scale of the works. An ongoing cost pressure of £50k has been introduced for future years due to higher property valuation costs. Employee turnover savings are mitigating the rise in Property costs linked to last year’s increases. The remaining overspend (£304K) relates to an under recovery of rental income. A full review of rentals will be carried out 26/27. The main reason for the variance is due to current levels of vacancies (£77k) and additional income generated for environmental health services provided (£38k). The remaining variance (£2k) is due to small variance across the service. The service provided by this area deal with benefits, council tax and debt recovery. The primary contributing factor is £146k relating to the Scottish Welfare Fund (SWF), which is offset by RSG income. The majority of the variance arises from deferred income recognised within service, as the associated commitments will not be fulfilled until FY27. This service collects Council tax from local residents. The services also provides support and advice to those residents regarding council tax. The £332k FY26 bad debt provision for Council Tax has been reallocated to the service, with the overall impact partially mitigated by the increase in statutory additions. 31 March 2026 Budget Details Resources Internal audit of council services. Favourable variance arising from underspend in staffing costs due to vacant posts. Variance Analysis RAG Status Regulatory and Regeneration This services deals with the administration functions and Democratic Services within the Authority. The main reasons for the variance is the current level of vacancies within the service (£45k). The remaining variance (£8k) is due to various small variances across the service area. The 3 Groups within this service (Food and Business Group, Environmental Pollution Group and Community Health Protection Group) are responsible for all aspects of Environmental Health work. Page 69
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status Licensing (221) (275) 0 (54) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Planning 557 505 218 (270) 39% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance This Service provides Building & Planning services. The variance is mainly due to additional income of (£144k) generated from planning applications, and building warrants, lower employee costs than anticipated due to delays and difficulties filling vacancies within the service (£44k). Payments to Other Bodies were (£88k) lower due to payments to Glasgow City Region external partners being less that expected. The remaining £6k is due to small variances within the service. This service provides all licensing on behalf of the Council. The variance is mainly due to receipt of adianta income (£54k), mainly for taxi licences. Page 70
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status Strategic People and Change 1,863 1,806 2 (58) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Information Services 5,093 4,908 0 (185) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Central Administration Support 2,602 2,502 0 (100) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Libraries 1,833 1,757 0 (76) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Arts and Heritage 306 192 0 (114) -37% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Catering Services 5,077 5,557 11 468 9% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Facilities Assistants 2,665 2,474 0 (191) -7% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance This service provides the provision & protection of Arts & Heritage There is a favourable variance against employee costs as a result of vacancies. There is a small favourable variance against employee costs (£33k) and electricity/gas (£24k) with the balance from additional income. This service provides Facility Assistants throughout WDC buildings. There is a favourable variance against employee costs as a result of vacancies. This service area provides general ICT support to the Council and also supports transformational change and modernisation of working practices through technology. The favourable position reflects several factors: £57k of reduced expenditure on printer lease costs following the transition to a new supplier; £26k lower printing and copy costs across WDC; £27k favourable variance on ISDN transition costs; £54k favourable variance on computer software costs driven by the M365 licence renewal; and £21k of increased budgeted recharges for computer software to other services. Citizens, Culture and Facilities Catering Services across WDC Although there is a small favourable variance against employee costs (£30k) as a result of vacancies this has been offset by adverse variances against kitchen equipment repairs/purchases (£118k) and, particularly, against income. The income budget was overstated and includes £350k which was also shown within General Revenue Grant income. This was highlighted as a 2026/27 budget pressure in the June 2025 Finance Update to Council. Employee turnover was ahead of budget together with an uplift in recharges This service includes the provision of Library, Culture and Museums within West Dunbartonshire People & Technology This service area provides strategic and operational HR advice, H&S advice and guidance (including fire safety) and strateigc and operational risk management. The variance was primarily driven by reduced Occupational Health expenditure of £39k, with £29k relating to the 2025/26 burden being overstated due to the inclusion of VAT. In addition, £8k of training costs have been carried forward to FY27 with the remaining balance across variance lines - employee costs, events, supplies and lower Paye settlement agreement (PSA). This services deals with administration functions within the Authority. Page 71
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status Primary Schools 35,041 35,101 0 60 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Secondary Schools 35,876 35,913 124 (87) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Specialist Educational Provision 23,471 23,724 35 218 1% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Mitigating Action Anticipated Outcome The reason for the adverse variance is an overspend on employee costs - mainly APT&C following the recent job evaluation of grade 3 and 4 staff (£320k inc. backdating to August 2024 plus £12k for non-achievement of turnover ) - and an overspend on transport (£567k). Payments for teachers to cover absences (£21k) were also greater than budgeted. Whilst the purchase of 6 additional buses has reduced the number of taxi contracts the payback period for the one-off cost of £255k , charged directly to the taxi budget within the service , was always projected to be more than one year.The use of taxis will remain essential for some children given their individual needs (£136k). As a result of the additional buses and a reduction in other internal users the recharge from Transport Services is anticipated to be higher (£169k).These overspends are partly offset by a projected underspend on out of authority placements (£575k) and increase staff recharges to grants and other service areas (£129k). Steps have been taken to reduce taxi expenditure further, with discussions ongoing with external providers about transport of children attending those facilities. We have however taken on additional runs required for both Riverside School and St. Mary's Duntocher, which have increased our costs. Discussions are ongoing with Transport Services about internal recharges, due to the reduction in other services making use of Internal Transport adverse variance This service area includes all Primary Schools. Recharges for upkeep of grounds and refuse collection were greater than budgeted resulting in an overspend (£76k) and teacher costs were £711k overbudget as a result of payments to cover teacher absences .In addition, supplies & services, mainly classroom materials, were over budget (£65k).These overspends are offset by a number of underspends - gas/electricity (£273k), clothing grants (£55k), non-teacher vacancies (£117k). Finally, there was additional income from recharges to Early Years for shared campus property costs (£187k) and additional grant and commercial income from early start clubs (£155k) This service area includes all Secondary Schools. Teacher cover costs, mainly cover, are greater than anticipated (£324k) and recharges for upkeep of grounds were greater than budgeted resulting in an overspend (£30k). There are however a number of underspends - gas/electricity/NDR (£79k) , lower EMA payments (£35k) , clothing grants (£45k) and exam fees (£16k) ,and lower transport costs (especially on both SPT bus contracts and reduced taxi usage, £132k).In addition there was greater school meal income (£123k) and favourable variances on some miscellaneous income budgets (£10k). This service area covers all ASN Services. Education , Learning and Attainment Page 72
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status Early Education 19,346 19,729 0 383 2% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance The reason for the adverse variance is an overspend on employee costs (£313k) due to the Grade 3 and 4 job evaluation and the non-achievement of the turnover target. In addition, payments to private providers are greater than budget following the sharp increase in the number of eligible 2 year olds in these nurseries (£83k) and the net position from cross boundary charging is adverse (£30k). An underspend against childminding (£30k) and income from pre-entitlement hours (£13k) has reduced the overall adverse variance. This services area includes all Early Years establishments within West Dunbartonshire. Page 73
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status PPP 18,373 18,145 0 (228) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Education Development 2,539 2,398 70 (211) 3% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Transport, Fleet & Maintenance Services (99) 2,261 0 99 -100% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Roads Services 2,329 2,261 150 (218) -9% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Outdoor Services 300 241 0 (59) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Crematorium (1,072) (843) 0 229 -21% Service Description This service covers the outdoor sporting facilities provided by WDC and public conveniences The variance is mainly due to property costs (£79k) which is due to utiltiy costs being less than budgeted. The remaining balance of is due to small variances across the Service. This service provides crematorium services within the Council area This service relates to Roads operations, design, structures, street lighting, road safety and school crossing patrols Employee costs are underspent by £419k due to current levels of vacancies. Property has overspend by £46k mainly due to additional rates payments. Transport and plant overspent by £178k due to the current vehicles on hire to ensure that planned works are undertaken and supplies and services overspent by £290k mainly due to materials required to undertake planned works. Payments to other bodies are underspent by £49k due to lower than anticipated payments to Greenspace which is due to level of works carried out for them. Income has over recovered by £264k due to additional unplanned works which were undertaken on behalf of other Services,. Transport services across WDC. Transport Services is operated on behalf of services across the Council. An under recovery on income is anticipated as while the service fully allocates all costs out to appropriate services there is currently a mis-alignment between the expenditure and income budgets. A cost pressure was agreed at Council 17 December to rectify this from 2026/27 budget. This service includes spend in areas such as technician service, language programmes and senior phase programme. The favourable variance is due to underspends on employee costs Roads and Neighbourhood This service area includes Vale of Leven, Clydebank High and St Peter the Apostle High Schools and St Eunan's Primary School. The costs charged to this service are Property costs and the Unitary charge. The favourable variance is due to underspends on gas/electricity and a reduction in our estimate for banked hours payment to BAM Page 74
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status Main Issues / Reason for Variance Employee costs are overspent by £32k due to overtime and non achievement of turnover savings. Property costs are showing a favourable variance of £43k due to utility costs being lower than anticipated. Income from cremations is £231k less than budgeted partly due to a new crematorium recently opened in East Dunbartonshire and the remainder due to number of cremations undertaken. This budget is uncontrollable and changes throughout. The remaining balance of £9k is due to a small variance within supplies and services. Page 75
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status Waste Services 10,074 9,888 0 (186) -2% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Working 4 U 2,039 1,957 181 (263) -13% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Provision of Working 4U Service. The underspend is mainly due to employee costs as a result of achieving savings of £206,500 within the current financial year and in year vacancies. The service received additional in year funding, which was maximised resulting in further savings. Waste Collection and Refuse disposal services Employee costs overspent by £159k mainly due to turnover not being met. Supplies and services are underspent £246k mainly due a reduction in the costs for tonnage in relation to waste collection. Additional income of £92k was received manly due to brown bin waste permits. The remaining £8k variance is due to small variances throughout the service. Page 76
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status Homelessness Services 837 737 0 (100) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Resettlement Services 0 (964) 0 (964) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Sundry Services 6,768 7,468 1,184 (460) -7% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Loan Charges 16,708 11,657 0 (5,051) -30% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Resettlement service aims to support refugees in establishing a safe, stable and independent life within the local community Receipt of resettlement grant with costs incurred within other service areas. The income has not been reallocated as it all sits within the General Fund. Interest and other charges on council borrowing Loan charges are showing a £5.029m favourable variance against budget as a result of the Council’s Finance Team, in conjunction with our Treasury Advisers (MUFG), identifying an opportunity to terminate £33.1m of long-term fixed rate loans in return for a discounted repayment amount resulting in a £3.4m benefit to the General Fund. The four loans were due to mature between 2064 and 2078. The remaining favourable variance is a result a statutory accounting adjustment to loan charges. Miscellaneous This service area budgets for non departmental specific costs such as pensions costs, external grants, external audit fees and insurance costs. The service heading also holds a number of general savings options which have still to be fully allocated e.g. procurement targets. The main reason for this favourable variance is due to a number of underspends across the service. An underspend on employee costs of £183k mainly due to the underspend on unfunded pension costs and the apprenticeship levy, an underspend on empty property costs £405k and the remainder across various other budget lines . This is offset by the increase in the provision for legal fees £450k and procurement savings not being achieved £435k. Other Housing and Employability This service seeks to prevent homelessness occurring across the authority and improves access to support services The service has efficiently managed its operational and commissioned budgets to delver a range of underspends. In addition, the service has generated additional housing benefit income because there has been an increase in the number of temporary flats. Page 77
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 3 REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 PERIOD END DATE Total Budget Actual Spend Use of EMR Variance after the use of EMR £000 £000 £000 £000 % 31 March 2026 Budget Details Variance Analysis RAG Status Suspense transfer to Reserves 0 (3,212) (3,212) 0 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Transfer to reserves re SPFO reduction 4,294 (408) (4,702) 0 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Revenue Support Grant (175,591) (176,208) 0 (617) 0% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Non GAE Allocation (8,453) (7,701) 0 752 -9% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance Central Government Funding (1,672) (2,347) (675) (675) 40% Service Description Main Issues / Reason for Variance The main reason for this favourable variance is due to additional money received for expenditure already built into the budget. This represents the funding from Scottish Government Release of suspense balances to Earmarked Reserves A review of the Council’s suspense accounts has identified material sums sitting in suspense accounts which have accumulated over a number of years which can be released back to earmarked reserves as agreed in the October finance update. Balance of in year SPFO saving Balance of SPFO in year saving to be transferred to earmarked reserves to smooth the budget gap in future years. This budget reflects funding received from Central Government The UK Government provided funding to the council to support local recycling services. The actual amount received was greater than originally anticipated. The additional amount (£0.675m) will be earmarked to deliver future recycling initiatives. Following a recent review, there is a reduction in the recharge of central support services to non GAE services. This budget represents the recharge of central support services to non GAE services ie HRA and capital Page 78
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 4 MONITORING OF EARMARKED BALANCES 2025/26 BY CHIEF OFFICER DEPARTMENT Amount b/fwd into 25/26 from 24/25 Transfer to/From Reserves 25/26 Transfers In/(Out)/ (Released) 25/26 Estimate 25/26 Actual Spend To be carried forward into 26/27 Description £ £ £ £ £ £ 1 Revs & Bens: Social Welfare Fund 374,103 374,103 374,103 - To pay the balance of Scottish Welfare Fund grants expenditure funded by the Scottish Government. Carried forward to 2025/26. 2 Revs & Bens: DWP funding 53,000 53,000 53,000 - To support activities related to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, including system enhancements scheduled for completion in FY25/26. 3 Financial Service Centre: Automation Team (VKY) 26,284 (26,284) 0 - - - Expenditure linked to the VKY Automation contract approved in 2020/21 as part of the Robotic Process Automation (RPA) rollout. 4 Intromissions 200,000 - 200,000 53,000 147,000 Build up of reserve to pay for future liability for historic child abuse cases (as agreed at Council october 2024) 5 Regulatory - New document management system 90,000 90,000 59,570 30,430 The Planning and Building Standards require a new document management system to replace the current system. The current timeline is to procure over two years due to the different stages in the process and the time needed to undertake them. 6 Regulatory - Underspend in 'design panel' budget for IDOX upgrade 7,000 7,000 7,000 - This balances relates to the initial stages of designing the new Planning and Building Standards document management system and will be spent this financial year. 7 Developer Contributions 373,309 373,309 150,854 222,455 These are financial or in-kind contributions received from developers and are associated with specific agreements. They need to be retained and used for the purposes specified in the individual agreements. 8 Energy Efficiency 325,000 325,000 - 325,000 The funds relate to a Scottish Government Grant received some years ago for energy efficiency projects. A programme of energy improvement projects will be developed with the potential to recycle savings back to the fund. 9 Business Support 0 - - - Business Loans Scotland Income to be used for future business support activity over the next 2-3 years. 10 OD & Change Training Budget 8,773 8,773 - 8,773 Funding allocated to meet defined training needs 11 Previous provision for equal pay/holiday pay 194,663 194,663 12,972 181,691 Balance for outstanding equal pay/holiday pay claims and associated legal expenses. RESOURCES REGULATORY & REGENERATION PEOPLE & TECHNOLOGY Page 79
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 4 MONITORING OF EARMARKED BALANCES 2025/26 BY CHIEF OFFICER DEPARTMENT Amount b/fwd into 25/26 from 24/25 Transfer to/From Reserves 25/26 Transfers In/(Out)/ (Released) 25/26 Estimate 25/26 Actual Spend To be carried forward into 26/27 Description £ £ £ £ £ £ 12 Education recovery (ELT) 29,834 29,834 29,834 - Balance to be utilised in ASN in new academic year (post August 2025) to cover the cost of out of authority placements 13 Whole Family Wellbeing Funding 69,862 69,862 69,862 - Balance included in overall WFWB plan for 2025/26 to cover staffing costs and Edge of Care services from Include 14 Ending Core curriculum charges 129,000 129,000 129,000 - Balance to be utilised for classroom materials (eg technical, home economics) in secondaries in new academic year (post August 2025) 15 Ukraine 78,000 (78,000) 0 - - - Can be released in 2025/26 as teacher costs already covered by existing budgets 16 Removal of music instruction fees 30,000 30,000 30,000 - Balance to be utilised in new academic year (post August 2025) to expand opportunities for music education 17 Modern Apprentice 177,494 177,494 70,913 106,581 The Balance will be used as part of the four year modern apprenticeship programme to cover payment across financial years. The funding will be fully utilised in year five of the programme. 18 Employability 442,000 442,000 - 442,000 This fund will be used for the development and delivery of key employability initiatives to support vulnerable groups allowing for continued support over a longer period of time. 19 Community Renewal Fund 9,220 9,220 - 9,220 The balance will be used to cover premises costs at the Levengrove Training Centre and aligns with the Community Renewal Fund priorities; to ensure the continued delivery of Project Search. A specialist employability programme for young people with autism and/or learning disabilities. Secure, appropriate, and fully‑equipped premises are essential for delivering the intensive, on‑site training, employer engagement, and workplace readiness activities that underpin the Project Search model. 20 UK Shared Prosperity 18,000 790,895 808,895 808,895 The fund represents the UKSPF Grant allocation 25/26. The carry forward has been applied under fund flexibility extention rules to enable the completion of UKSPF outcomes up until the new programme end date of September 2026. 21 UKSPF community grants 2,641 0 2,641 2,641 Community Benefit grants are donations made to W4U for activities/items selected from WDC wishlist as detailed on WDC webpage. Funds are for specific items of expenditure and do not relate to general revenue items of WDC. There is no restriction that donations have to be spent within the financial year. 22 Extended Producer Responsibility 675,000 675,000 675,000 This fund will be used to deliver future recycling initiatives EDUCATION ROADS & NEIGHBOURHOOD Page 80
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 4 MONITORING OF EARMARKED BALANCES 2025/26 BY CHIEF OFFICER DEPARTMENT Amount b/fwd into 25/26 from 24/25 Transfer to/From Reserves 25/26 Transfers In/(Out)/ (Released) 25/26 Estimate 25/26 Actual Spend To be carried forward into 26/27 Description £ £ £ £ £ £ 23 Refugee Resettlement 499,255 499,255 - 499,255 EMR to be used to cover resettlement costs in future years if there is a timing difference between expenditure and Scottish Government grant income. 24 Empty Home 150,000 150,000 - 150,000 EMR to be used to provide interest free or low interest loans to property owners to renovate or bring their empty properties back into use, for sale of rental. 25 CCTV Network Upgrade 21,000 21,000 - 21,000 Contribution for the costs of the CCTV project. 26 Set up a an energy Household Energy Support Fund using £250,000 15,990 0 15,990 12,565 3,425 Fund set up to support residents who require crisis support to ensure their properties remain heated. 27 Cost of Living 1: Enhancement to the Schools Summer Programmed. £100,000 per year for 4 years. 200,000 200,000 99,717 100,283 Balance from £100k to be used to cover holiday activities outwith summer period (as reported to Education Committee Sept 2025) 28 Cost of Living 2: Create a 4 year School Meal Cost Hardship Fund to help families struggling with the cost of living. £60,000 per year. 92,661 (57,786) (13,300) 21,575 11,407 10,168 To cover the cost and assist families just above to eligibility threshold for free school meals who have been unable to pay for a school meal. £50,401 released for 2026/27 budget. 29 Cost of Living 3: Additional Support for Apprenticeships. £50,000 per year for 4 years. 150,000 150,000 50,000 100,000 The Apprenticeship Investment Programme being part of a broader programme which is over a four year period. Payments can cover more than one financial year and therefore the reserves ensures continuity of the programme. 30 Cost of Living 4: Fund the successful spending on Sport & Leisure for children during holiday times for the next 4 years. £45,000 per year. 107,040 107,040 24,200 82,840 Additional payments to WDLT for holiday activities (eg gym and swimming classes) provided over Easter ,summer and autumn 31 Cost of Living 6: Transitional Funding Support to Y-Sort-It over 4 years. £39,000 per year 78,000 78,000 39,000 39,000 Transitional funding support for Y-Sort It over a four year period to give them time to secure external funding. 32 Cost of Living 7: Introduce a programme of creative engagement and learning focused on supporting people through recovery and improving wellbeing. £5,000 per year for 4 years. 10,000 10,000 - 10,000 The £5k for each of the four years was partially spent in 23/24 and 24/25 and will be fully spent in 25/26 once Glencairn and the new museum space in Clydebank are opened. 33 Provide 64,000 for family fund day events in 2023/24 and the following three years (approx 32 events at £2,000 per event) 32,000 32,000 16,000 16,000 Provision of Family fun days within West Dunbartonshire Council over a four year period This is year three of the four years and therefore £16k will be carried forward into 2026/27 to be used. 34 Transfer to Foodbank support fund 151,680 151,680 31,680 120,000 26/27 Commitment to support foodbanks as approved by Council March 2026 35 £12k over 4 years to Renton Community Food Hub from April 2024 to March 2028 (formerly Tontine Food Parcels) 9,000 9,000 3,000 6,000 Subsidy provided to food banks over a three year period to assist with the provision of food parcels. 36 £12k over 4 years to Lomond Food Pantry from April 2024 to March 2028 9,000 9,000 3,000 6,000 Subsidy provided to food banks over a three year period to assist with the provision of food parcels. HOUSING & EMPLOYABILITY COST OF LIVING Page 81
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 4 MONITORING OF EARMARKED BALANCES 2025/26 BY CHIEF OFFICER DEPARTMENT Amount b/fwd into 25/26 from 24/25 Transfer to/From Reserves 25/26 Transfers In/(Out)/ (Released) 25/26 Estimate 25/26 Actual Spend To be carried forward into 26/27 Description £ £ £ £ £ £ 37 £12k over 4 years to Time for Tully from April 2024 to March 2028 9,000 9,000 3,000 6,000 Subsidy provided to food banks over a three year period to assist with the provision of food parcels. 39 Flourishing Faifley 1,150 1,150 - 1,150 Cover the running costs of the group’s ceramics club, enabling it to remain low cost, promote social inclusion, and help alleviate some of the impacts of the cost of living crisis.40 Bankie Talk 2,150 2,150 - 2,150 Providing revenue funding to ease financial pressures and allow them to focus on future proofing the service. 41 Whitecrook Community action Group 3,000 3,000 - 3,000 To support families who require assistance, we will provide food parcel service Whitecrook Community Action Group with £3000 to support the delivery of 200 family (two adults, two children) food parcels. 42 Glenhead Community Centre, Duntocher 7,000 7,000 - 7,000 Support towards the costs of refurbishment to create a low-cost soft play facility for families, including a dedicated sensory room. Providing support towards the cost of the works 43 Uncommitted Cost of Living 0 0 0 0 - 0 Uncommitted Cost of Living Fund. As agreed on 4 March 2026 released to balance the 2026/27 budget. TOTAL USE OF SERVICE RESERVES 2,652,639 58,571 2,765,424 5,476,634 1,333,677 4,142,957 Page 82
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 4 MONITORING OF EARMARKED BALANCES 2025/26 BY CHIEF OFFICER DEPARTMENT Amount b/fwd into 25/26 from 24/25 Transfer to/From Reserves 25/26 Transfers In/(Out)/ (Released) 25/26 Estimate 25/26 Actual Spend To be carried forward into 26/27 Description £ £ £ £ £ £ 44 Voluntary Redundancy & Early Retirement Reserve 593,000 220,000 972,000 1,785,000 1,131,103 653,897 Funding for voluntary redundancy and Early retirement linked to 25/26 savings. 45 Smoothing Fund 1,220,826 (16,000) 0 1,204,826 559,853 644,973 The smoothing fund is being used to offset service overspends where savings/efficiencies have not been achieved in year. See Appendix 6 for details of where the smoothing fund has been applied (£504k). A further, £16k will also be met from the smoothing fund in relation to the shortfall in the generation of site income from television/film productions within Comms & Marketing and £38k in the delay in transfer of community facilities within leisure management and £2k due to the delayed recruitment of the Digital Officer within Strategic People and Change. 1 Prudential Target (Future Years) - 0 - - - 46 Reduction in Strathclyde Pension Fund Employer Contribution 4,355,000 4,701,000 9,056,000 - 9,056,000 Build up of the SPFO saving to be used to balance the budget in future years as agreed in 2023/24. 47 2026/27 Budgeted use of reserves - 911,758 0 911,758 - 911,758 As agreed at the budget meeting on 4 March 2026 -reserves to be used to balance the 2026/27 budget TOTAL USE OF STRATEGIC RESERVES 6,168,826 1,115,758 5,673,000 12,957,584 1,690,956 11,266,628 TOTAL USE OF EARMARKED RESERVES 8,821,465 1,174,329 8,438,424 18,434,218 3,024,633 15,409,585 STRATEGIC RESERVES Page 83
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 5 RECONCILIATION OF GENERAL FUND RESERVES Unearmarked Balance Earmarked Balance (further detail at Appendix 4) £(m) £(m) £(m) £(m) Balance on General Fund as at 31 March 2025 12.514 Earmarked as at 31 March 2025 8.821 Capital Grants and Receipts unapplied 0 Other Reserves (0.242) Transfer into VR/VS earmarked reserve 0.972 Closing General Fund Balance 12.272 Transfer in Intromissions EMR 0.000 Less Earmarked Balances (8.821) Transfer in Community Renewal Fund EMR 0.009 Unearmarked Balance as at 31 March 2025 (draft) 3.451 Transfer in Business Support EMR 0.000 Transfer in Employability EMR 0.442 Transfer from unearmarked to VR/VS EMR (0.220) Transfer in Energy Efficiency EMR 0.325 Release from EMR 0.104 Transfer in Developer contribution EMR 0.373 Transfer to EMR for 2026/27 budget (Agreed 4 March 2026) (1.057) Transfer in Empty Homes EMR 0.150 Transfer in/(out) to EMR (1.173) Allocation to pension smoothing reserve 4.702 Transfer in UK Shared Prosperity 0.791 Transfer in UKSPF Community Grant 0.000 Forecast favourable/(adverse) service outturn 1.797 Transfer in Extended Producer Responsibility 0.675 Forecast favourable/(adverse) non service outturn 4.299 Forecast favourable/(adverse) resources outturn 1.140 Transfer to/(from) general reserves as at Period 10 7.236 Total transfer in EMR 8.439 Forecast unallocated Balance as at 31 March 2026 9.514 Service use of reserves at as at 31 March 2026 (3.027) Prudential Target (2.5%) - agreed 4 March 2026 5.469 In year movement of EMR as at P12 5.412 Forecast unallocated Balance Above/(Below) Prudential Target 4.045 Transfer to and from Reserves 1.173 Earmarked Balance as at 31 March 2026 15.406 Page 85
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 6 MONITORING OF EFFICIENCIES AND MANAGEMENT ADJUSTMENTS 2025/26 Efficiency Detail Ref Chief Officer Budgeted Amount £000 Projection of Total Saved £000 Projection of Total Not Saved £000 Comment 1 Parking Enforcement RN05 G Macfarlane 325 175 150 The implementation of DPE is progressing and it is anticipated this will commence in Autumn 2025. There will be a part year income and therefore the use of the smoothing fund is required for the period of the year before DPE is in place. 2 Office/ Depot Rationalisation SDP05 L Slavin 380 176 204 Relates to two properties (Kilbowie Road and Elm road where tenants have yet to be identified. 24/25 shortfall to be funded from the smoothing fund. In 2025/26 a full review will be carried out on rental income and a cost pressure considered for 2026/27. 3 Review the Communities team reducing the delivery of community based services CCF26 A Graham 87 87 Saving fully achieved in 2025/26 4 Reduction in 2 FTE paralegal support to contracts and property section RR08 A Douglas 90 90 Saving fully achieved in 2025/26 5 Charging for Pre application advice RR09 A Douglas 5 5 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 6 Remove £12,500 of Nightzone West funding provided to Police Scotland RR01 A Douglas 1 1 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 7 Review compliance with Strategic Opening Model to identify areas where teams or posts can be merged CCF26 A Douglas 50 50 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 8 Revised Legal Charges for Transactions RR06 A Douglas 25 25 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 9 Registrars RR09 A Douglas 18 18 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 10 Building Standards A Douglas 10 10 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 11 Reduce Community Budgeting fund CCF10 A Douglas 27 27 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 12 Remove Members’ Secretary RR04 A Douglas 22 22 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 13 Reduce Trading Standards team RR17 A Douglas 14 14 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 14 Reduce Records Management team RR18 A Douglas 14 14 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 15 Close Clydebank Registration Office RR19 A Douglas 8 8 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 16 Combine dog warden & pest control posts RR10 A Douglas 38 38 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 17 Lead planner replaced by basic grade officer RR11 A Douglas 7 7 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 18 Antonine wall RR12 A Douglas 27 27 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 19 Review environmental health RR13 A Douglas 35 35 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 20 Development planning & placemaking RR20 A Douglas 55 55 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 21 Review core library staffing (outwith branch libraries) and remove one post CCF19 A Graham 18 18 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 22 Review the Communities team reducing the delivery of community based services CCF26 A Graham 15 15 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 23 Increase events income CCF05 A Graham 8 8 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 24 Review film locations and formalise fee arrangements CCF06 A Graham 8 8 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 2023/24 Efficiencies not achieved 2024/25 Efficiencies not achieved 2025/26 Efficiencies and Management Adjustments Page 87
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 6 MONITORING OF EFFICIENCIES AND MANAGEMENT ADJUSTMENTS 2025/26 Efficiency Detail Ref Chief Officer Budgeted Amount £000 Projection of Total Saved £000 Projection of Total Not Saved £000 Comment 25 Reduce Highland Games Spend CCF01 A Graham 15 15 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 26 Reduce Contact Centre by 2 FTE CCF09 A Graham 30 30 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 27 Reduce Community Engagement Budget CCF11 A Graham 22 22 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 28 Reduction in Arts and Heritage - 1.5 FTE reduction. CCF18 A Graham 30 30 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 29 Review Facilities Mgt Operating Model CCF04 A Graham 300 150 150 Consultations with workforce on new operating model have taken longer than anticipated. Shortfall covered by smoothing fund. 30 Remove telephone survey CCF13 A Graham 9 9 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 31 Performance and Strategy Budget Efficiencies CCF15 A Graham 9 9 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 32 Reduce design budget CCF16 A Graham 12 12 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 33 Electric Vehicle Charging RN13 G Macfarlane 11 11 - complete 34 School crossing patrollers - adhere to best practice RN01 G Macfarlane 25 25 - complete 35 Introduce £60 Garden Waste Charge RN02 G Macfarlane 180 180 - complete 36 Amend roads service activities to support education to statutory level RN04 G Macfarlane 37 37 - complete 37 Reduce the Consultancy Services/Capital Investment Team by 25% RN18 G Macfarlane 15 15 - complete 38 Reduce the roads operations service from 29 FTE to 26 FTE which will reduce resilience in the team RN21 G Macfarlane 60 60 - complete 39 Reduce maintenance costs through replacing 6 under utilised grass pitches with 3 new 4G pitches RN22(24- 25 option) G Macfarlane 50 50 - Not complete, planning approval process underway and if approved will issue tender. 40 Structural Patching RN23 G Macfarlane 50 50 - Complete 41 Review compliance with Strategic Opening Model to identify areas where teams or posts can be merged CCF26 G Macfarlane 50 50 - Not currently progressed, reviewing options for delivery. 42 Review Allotment charges RN03 G Macfarlane 5 5 - Complete, charges updated April 25 43 Special Uplift Charge RN26 G Macfarlane 22 22 - Complete, charges updated April 25 44 Stopping Saturday burials RN01 G Macfarlane 10 10 - Complete 45 Capitalise Play Park Fitter RN07 G Macfarlane 40 40 - Complete 46 Further replacement of hire vehicles RN09 G Macfarlane 171 171 - Vehicles have been procured and are expected to arrive late Summer 47 Reduce Working4U service by 50% HE02 G Macfarlane 206 206 - complete 48 School Crossing Patrollers -Retain 17 Crossing Patrollers RN17 G Macfarlane 23 23 - Underway, 2 locations still to be resolved 49 Review or remove provision of footway gritting - Cease Footway Gritting RN18 G Macfarlane 68 68 - complete 50 Close or reduce Dalmuir golf course - Close completely RN20 G Macfarlane 184 184 - Completed 51 Cease the Care of Gardens scheme RN21 G Macfarlane 143 143 - Complete 52 Review levels of street cleaning - Reduce by 2 staff RN22 (2025-26 option) G Macfarlane 26 26 - Complete 53 Review of park maintenance RN24 G Macfarlane 60 60 - Complete Page 88
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 6 MONITORING OF EFFICIENCIES AND MANAGEMENT ADJUSTMENTS 2025/26 Efficiency Detail Ref Chief Officer Budgeted Amount £000 Projection of Total Saved £000 Projection of Total Not Saved £000 Comment 54 Remove open space maintenance on non council land RN28 G Macfarlane 20 20 - Complete 55 Review Event Support by Grounds Service RN29 G Macfarlane 15 15 - Complete. Costs will be recharged to event organisers 56 Road Network & Capital Management Reduction RN30 G Macfarlane 50 50 - Part complete, 0.6FTE reduction with further employee reduction being assessed 57 Review Winter Plan RN31 G Macfarlane 55 55 - Complete, Plan approved. 58 Reduce Grass Cutting RN35 G Macfarlane 150 150 - Complete 59 Review Footway Gritting Operational Method RN14 G Macfarlane 60 60 - Complete 60 Reduce Additional Management Time in Primary Schools EDU08 G Hamilton 152 152 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 61 Review the Communities team reducing the delivery of community based services CCF26 G Hamilton 15 15 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 62 Introduce Early Start Clubs at schools with associated fees (£2) for pupils not entitled to a free school meal EDU05 G Hamilton 93 93 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 63 Increase fees for Out of School Care Service at St Eunan’s Primary School and Linnvale Primary School by £3 from April 2024 EDU09 G Hamilton 7 7 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 64 Reduce the number of ELC Early Stage Teachers from 16.4 FTE to 11.4 FTE across the entire ELC learning estate EDU14 G Hamilton 109 109 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 65 Reduce the number of Early Learning Childcare Posts from 223 FTE to 217 FTE across the entire ELC learning estate EDU15 G Hamilton 67 67 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 66 Remove ELC Lead Officer in Bellsmyre and Dalmonach ELC with remaining management team required to take over aspects of their remit EDU16 G Hamilton 30 30 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 67 Review the current flexibility in primary school classification and allocate class structures based on numerical information which aligns with statutory obligations EDU20 G Hamilton 200 200 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 68 Redesign Leadership in Children, Young People and Families Teams EDU25 G Hamilton 6 6 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 69 Reduce School Clothing Grant for primary school pupils to the statutory level (£120) EDU02 G Hamilton 64 64 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 70 Reduce Education Maintenance Allowance to statutory level EDU03 G Hamilton 75 75 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 71 Shared Head at two early learning centres (Clydebank and Whitecrook) EDU11 G Hamilton 31 31 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 72 Align funding for 1140 hours for 3 year olds with statutory guidance EDU14 G Hamilton 62 62 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 73 Reduce School Music Instructors EDU15 G Hamilton 30 30 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 74 Remove secondary school registration EDU20 G Hamilton 383 383 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 75 Reduce secondary school clerical staff EDU16 G Hamilton 80 80 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 76 Reduced Education Support (ELC) EDUC19 G Hamilton 27 27 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 77 Remove two franking machines and further reduce use of first class mail RES11 L Slavin 8 8 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 78 Historical Lease Review RES13 L Slavin 44 44 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 79 Remove one Council officer RES09 L Slavin 8 8 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 80 Review External Funding - Delete Community Wellbeing Fund RES01 L Slavin 20 20 - Complete 81 Reduce Corporate Debt team RES06 L Slavin 44 44 - Complete 82 Reduce number of caretakers RES08 L Slavin 24 24 - Complete 83 Reduce Housing Benefit and Council Tax team RES14 L Slavin 16 16 - Saving anticipated to be achieved Page 89
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 6 MONITORING OF EFFICIENCIES AND MANAGEMENT ADJUSTMENTS 2025/26 Efficiency Detail Ref Chief Officer Budgeted Amount £000 Projection of Total Saved £000 Projection of Total Not Saved £000 Comment 84 Review of Capital Programme RES06 L Slavin 66 66 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 85 Income Generation through Commercialisation RES09 L Slavin 15 15 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 86 Further asset rationalisation SDP04 L Slavin 99 99 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 87 External Consultancy Income SDP09 L Slavin 25 25 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 88 Review of charges for use of offices by external parties RES09 L Slavin 7 7 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 89 Historical lease review RES13 L Slavin 15 15 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 90 Reduce size of Building Services RES15 L Slavin 228 228 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 91 Review Asset Management team RES19 L Slavin 55 55 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 92 Reduce budget for temporary accommodation furniture HE03 P Barry 18 18 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 93 CCTV Service Reduction HE04 P Barry 31 31 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 94 Restrict choice in office equipment to pre-agreed catalogue items/amounts. PT05 V Rogers 5 5 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 95 Reduce the Council’s training budget, retaining budget to cover essential corporate requirements PT07 V Rogers 5 5 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 96 Reduce manual processing by automating the generation of debtor and creditor invoices RES11 V Rogers 25 25 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 97 Remove counselling and physio PT10 V Rogers 9 9 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 98 Reduce Corporate Administration Support 3 FTE Reduction. PT12 V Rogers 91 91 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 99 People & Change Team Restructure PT14 V Rogers 62 62 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 100 Organisational Development Reduction PT15 V Rogers 60 60 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 101 Outsource Print Room function PT18 V Rogers 25 25 - Saving anticipated to be achieved 102 Reduce ICT team: 4 FTE PT20 V Rogers 84 84 - Saving anticipated to be achieved TOTAL AGREED SAVINGS OPTIONS & MANAGEMENT ADJUSTMENTS 6,017 5,513 504 Page 90
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by the Chief Officer – Resources Council: 17 June 2026 _________________________________________________________________ Subject: General Services Capital Budgetary Control Report 2025/26 to 31 March 2026 (Draft Outturn). 1. Purpose 1.1 This report provides the draft outturn on the General Services capital financial performance to 31 March 2026. 2. Recommendations 2.1 Members are asked to: a) Note the draft outturn of the 2025/26 General Services capital budget. b) Note the recurring budget underspend and 8 completed projects detailed in Appendix 2. c) Note the reprofiling of the budgets of 50 projects in Appendix 3 of (£10.264m) over the project life. 3. Background 3.1 On 5 March 2025 the Council approved the updated General Services Capital Plan for 2025/2026 to 2034/35. The three years from 2025/26 to 2027/28 were approved in detail with the remaining years being indicative. The budget agreed was £73.780m for 2025/26 and £307.818m for the project life budget. 4. Main Issues 4.1 Exhibit 1 sets out the revised capital budget at period 10 as reported to Council on 25 March 2026. Exhibit 1: Revised Capital Budget as at 31 January 2026. 2025/26 (£m) Project Life (£m) Capital Budget Agreed 5 March 2025 73.780 307.818 Updates reported to Council on 27 August, 29 October, 17 December and 25 March plus adjustments for year-end carried forward balances 8.045 28.708 Reprofiling reported to Council on 27 August, 29 October and 17 December (22.607) 0 Revised Capital Budget as at Period 10 59.218 336.526 4.2 Progress against the 2025/26 capital plan is detailed in: ITEM 14 Page 91
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Appendix 1 – Project Life Summary by Chief Officer Appendix 2 – Completed Projects at Period 12 Appendix 3 – Reprofiling for Noting Appendix 4 – All Approved Projects 4.3 The overall programme summary report at Appendix 1 shows a reduction in project life budget of £4.158m. This is due to completed projects being removed from the capital plan. Note Appendix 1 is constructed assuming all changes in this report are approved. 4.4 Appendix 2 highlights 8 projects completed at period 12 and 1 underspend on a recurring budget. 4.5 Appendix 3 highlights 50 projects where the expenditure requires to be reprofiled across the project life but there is no need for additional budget. This reprofiling will be reflected in the P3 budgetary control report going to council in August. 4.6 Exhibit 2 sets out the revised capital budget at period 12 assuming approval by Council of all recommendations contained within this report. Exhibit 2: Revised Capital Budget 2025/26 (£m) Project Life (£m) Capital Budget as at 31 January 2026 59.218 336.526 Saving (RN 14) – RN 5 Vehicle Replacement (Para 4.8) 0 0.300 Increased budget – RN 11 Gruggies Burn Flood Prevention (Para 4.8) 0 3.460 New Funding – RN 39 Milton Park MUGA (Para 4.8) 0.109 0.109 Additional budget – RN 5 Vehicle Replacement (Para 4.8) 0.255 0.255 Proposed revised Capital Budget as at Period 12 59.582 340.650 Recurring budget underspend (Appendix 2) (0.053) (0.053) Projects completed at P12 (Appendix 2) (1.382) (5.855) Overspends in year (Para 4.9) 1.750 1.750 Reprofiling over project life (Appendix 3) (10.264) 0 Proposed revised Capital Budget as at Period 12 subject to Council Approval 49.633 336.492 4.7 Appendix 4 shows all projects with approved in year and project life budgets as well as anticipated expenditure. It highlights that the 2025/26 budget is £59.582m, final spend at 31 March was £50.061m resulting in an in year variance of (£9.483m). 4.8 Other minor changes to the capital plan included in the summarised plan in appendix 4 are: Page 92
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• Saving RN 14 approved at council on 4 March 2026 for an additional £0.300m for replacement of hire vehicles added to the Vehicle Replacement budget (RN 5). • Increased budget of £3.460m for Gruggies Burn Flood Prevention (RN 11) agreed at council on 25 March 2026. • New funding for Milton Park MUGA (RN 39) of £0.109m in 2025/26. • Additional budget of £0.255m in Vehicle Replacement (RN 5) for the purchase of Education mini buses funded by revenue agreed at council on 18 June 2025. 4.9 The final position resulted in an overspend in RES 9 Direct Project Support of £1.750m. These are internal project support costs from services for the execution and implementation of the capital plan throughout the year. Finance have committed to conducting a review of direct project support costs during 26/27 and this will be reported back to council through the normal capital budgetary control report process. 5. Option Appraisal 5.1 No option appraisal was required for this report. 6. People Implications 6.1 There are no people implications. 7. Financial and Procurement Implications 7.1 The report notes the projected financial position for capital budgets. 8. Risk Analysis 8.1 The main risks are as follows: (a) As a consequence of current market conditions, inflation is high and interest rates continue to be volatile. To forecast for the full capital plan costs budget assumptions have been required. These assumptions continue to change regularly and therefore it is likely the projected capital plan budgetary position will change from that reported. 9. Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) 9.1 No equalities impact assessment was required in relation to this report. 10. Environmental Sustainability 10.1 No assessment of environmental sustainability was required in relation to this report. Page 93
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11. Consultation 11.1 All services involved in delivering the capital budgets have been consulted in the compilation of this report. 12. Strategic Assessment 12.1 Proper budgetary control and sound financial practice are cornerstones of good governance and support Council and officers to pursue the strategic priorities of the Council’s current Strategic Plan. This report forms part of the financial governance of the Council. ______________ Laurence Slavin Chief Officer – Resources Date: 1 June 2026 Person to Contact: Lynsey Dickson, Finance Business Partner Council Offices, Church Street, Dumbarton E-mail: lynsey.dickson@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendices: Appendix 1 – Project Life Summary by Chief Officer Appendix 2 – Completed Projects at Period 12 Appendix 3 – Reprofiling for Noting Appendix 4 – All Approved Projects Background Papers: General Services Capital Plan Update - Council 6 March 2024 General Services Capital Plan Update - Council 5 March 2025 Capital Budgetary Control Report (P3) – Council 27 August 2025 Review of Hybrid Meetings of Council and Committees – Council 27 August 2025 Capital Budgetary Control Report (P5) – Council 29 October 2025 Capital Budgetary Control Report (P7) – Council 17 December 2025 Review of West Dunbartonshire Councils Capital Programme – Council 17 December 2025 Gruggies Burn Flood Alleviation Scheme – Council 17 December 2025 Financial Update – Council 17 December 2025 General Services Budget Setting – 4 March 2026 Capital Budgetary Control Report (P10) – Council 25 March 2026 Wards Affected: All Wards Page 94
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West Dunbartonshire Council Appendix 1 General Services Capital 2025/26 Summary at Period 12 Project Life Budget Project Life Forecast Spend Project Life Variance On Track Off Track £'000 £'000 £'000 Resources 51,650 53,400 1,750 3 11 Regulatory and Regeneration 57,125 57,125 0 1 7 Roads and Neighbourhoods 153,579 147,671 (5,908) 14 20 Education 60,543 60,543 0 - 4 HSCP 8,220 8,220 0 - 3 People and Technology 9,532 9,532 0 - 5 Total 340,650 336,492 (4,158) 18 50 Page 95
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West Dunbartonshire Council Appendix 2 General Services Capital 2025/26 Projects that are completed at Period 12 Service Project Approved Budget 2025/26 Approved Project Life Cost Actual Project Life Cost Underspend Comment £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 Recurring Budget Roads and Neighbourhood RN 2 Flood Risk Management 685 2,180 2,127 (53) This is a recurring budget with an underspend of £53K in 25/26, this is to be recognised in the year as the project for which is was required was completed under budget. 685 2,180 2,127 (53) Project Budgets Roads and Neighbourhood RN 6 Auld Street Clydebank - Bond 42 256 256 0 Project complete on budget Roads and Neighbourhood RN 7 Clydebank Charrette, A814 52 4,303 4,303 (0) Project complete on budget Roads and Neighbourhood RN 21 Pappert 2G Pitch 242 251 169 (81) Tender return was under allocated budget Roads and Neighbourhood RN 26 Strathclyde Partnership for Transport - Bus, cycling and walking infrastructure improvements & Park and Rides 278 278 - (278) There was no funding made available in 25/26 for this project from SPT. Roads and Neighbourhood RN 27 Transport Scotland 24-25 Implementation 20MPH Speed Limits 458 458 112 (346) This budget was in relation to phase 1 which was significantly less than anticipated. Further phases require to be funded through new SG allocations being made available. Can not be carried forward. Roads and Neighbourhood RN 28 Review of schools speed Limits 75 75 27 (48) Project was completed and part funded by external funding Roads and Neighbourhood RN 31 Bus Infrastructure Fund 50 50 18 (32) Works completed in line with resource capacity Roads and Neighbourhood RN 35 Road Safety Improvement Fund 185 185 55 (130) Works undertaken to facilitate team to apply for external funding for project delivery in 26/27 1,382 5,855 4,939 (916) Page 96
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West Dunbartonshire Council Appendix 3 General Services Capital 2025/26 Reprofiling at Period 12 Service Project Approved Budget 2025/26 Actual to date 2025/26 Reprofiling Initial Completion Date Revised Completion Date Comment £'000 £'000 £'000 Resources RES 1 Valuation Joint Board - Requisition of ICT Equipment 4 4 (0) 31/03/2028 31/03/2028 Remaining budget to be carried forward to 26/27. Resources RES 2 Agresso Development 6 2 (4) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Ongoing support required for Agresso while replacement system in development. Resources RES 4 Community Success Capital Fund 21 0 (21) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 No requests for funding have been received under the Community Success Capital Fund during the reporting period. Resources RES 5 Community Sports Success 9 9 35 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Community Sports Success received a higher level of demand than anticipated during the 2025/26 financial year, with funding requests exceeding initial expectations. The Council will continue to work with community groups throughout 2026/27 to support ongoing delivery and manage future funding opportunities. Resources RES 7 New Sports Changing Facility Dumbarton West (Old OLSP site) 0 9 9 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 The New Sports Changing Facility at Dumbarton West (Old OLSP site) remains part of the Council’s investment in community sports infrastructure. Delivery is anticipated in 2026/27, with ongoing discussions to coordinate development alongside adjacent landowners. Resources RES 8 Building Upgrades and H&S - lifecycle & reactive building upgrades 2,536 3,061 525 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Has reported an overspend in the period, primarily as a result of an accelerated programme of works across a number of operational properties. This approach has been taken to address priority compliance and condition issues at an earlier stage, reducing ongoing risk and future reactive pressures. The programme continues to be managed responsibly within the overall capital framework, with works prioritised in line with operational need and statutory requirements. Resources RES 10 Depot Rationalisation 500 273 (227) 31/03/2027 31/03/2027 Depot Rationalisation is progressing in line with an established programme of works, with completion anticipated in the 2026/27 financial year. The programme will deliver fit-for-purpose facilities that are compliant with current health and safety standards and support improved operational efficiency. Resources RES 11 Finance Ledger System 212 222 10 31/03/2027 31/03/2027 Additional cost of staff recharges due to pay award 25-26 Resources RES 12 Community Sports Facility at Millburn 20 16 (4) 31/03/2028 31/03/2028 The Community Sports Facility at Millburn is a community-led project being progressed by the Vale of Leven Community Sport Hub, with the Council’s contribution provided as match funding to support external funding bids. The Council will continue to assist the group as required, including supporting feasibility and development work as the project moves towards delivery. Resources RES 13 Holm Park Community Football Academy Accesibility Project 75 56 (19) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Holm Park Community Football Academy Accessibility Project is not expected to fully draw down the allocated budget within the current financial year. Final expenditure is subject to receipt of the outstanding invoice from the community group, which is anticipated in Quarter 2 of 2026/27. Resources RES 15 Design, Creation, Installation of Digital Content for Glencairn House 187 0 (187) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Design, Creation, Installation of Digital Content for Glencairn House is progressing in line with the approved programme, with completion anticipated in 2026/27. Full utilisation of the allocated budget is currently expected in line with project delivery. Regulatory and Regeneration RR 4 Regeneration/Local Economic Development 258 242 (15) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 This budget includes a number of different budget lines/projects at different stages of development. 25/26 spend was lower than originally profied due to projects progressing slower than anticipated. Regulatory and Regeneration RR 5 Regeneration Fund 50 40 (10) 31/03/2028 31/03/2029 This budget includes a number of different budget lines/projects at different stages of development. 25/26 spend was a contribution to a construction of Dumbarton waterfront walkway which was lower than originally estimated. Regulatory and Regeneration RR 6 Place Based Investment 150 100 (50) 31/03/2026 31/03/2028 This is externally funded multi-year programme of works. 25/26 spend was lower than originally profied. Regulatory and Regeneration RR 7 Level Up Funding 4,379 4,860 481 31/03/2026 31/03/2028 This is externally funded multi-year programme of works. 25/26 spend was higher than originally profied. Regulatory and Regeneration RR 9 District Heating Network Expansion 201 (30) (231) 31/03/2028 31/03/2028 Underspend due to delay in programme of planned district heat network connections. Underspend to be carried forward to 26/27. Regulatory and Regeneration RR 10 Clyde Mission Catalyst Fund 625 766 141 31/03/2026 31/03/2028 External funding managed by the Council on behalf of the grantee. The final spend was higher than originally anticipated, however the overall budget amont remain the same. Regulatory and Regeneration RR 13 Pride in Place Impact Fund 0 0 0 31/03/2026 31/03/2028 External funding which wac received late in 2025/26 therefore no spend was achieved. To be carried forward, with spend anticipated in 26/27 & 27/28 Roads and Neighbourhood RN 1 Infrastructure - Roads 2,658 2,571 (87) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 1 project slipped to 26/27 programme due to conflicting roadworks Roads and Neighbourhood RN 3 Street lighting and associated electrical infrastructure 100 102 2 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Not sufficient to undertake a further replacement in 25/26 but will contribute to further replacements in 26/27 Roads and Neighbourhood RN 4 Flood Prevention 193 131 (62) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Feasibility and consultation undertaken which delayed design commencing Roads and Neighbourhood RN 5 Vehicle Replacement 5,358 4,036 (1,322) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Underspend due to lead times for delivery of vehicles, budget to be carried forward to 26/27. Roads and Neighbourhood RN 9 A813 Road Improvement Phase 1 201 8 (193) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Phase 1 footway improvements complete however funding required to complete remedial works and design to extend cycle lane. Roads and Neighbourhood RN 10 Traffic Signal Updates 14 0 (14) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Project wlil be delivered 26/27and this funding will part fund project that has external funding Roads and Neighbourhood RN 11 Gruggies Burn Flood Prevention 882 0 (882) 31/03/2028 31/03/2028 Further design underway following value enginnering, this budget will be utilised in 26/27 Roads and Neighbourhood RN 12 River Leven Flood Prevention Scheme 200 0 (200) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Detailed design will be completed 26/27 and presented for consideration as a capital bid Roads and Neighbourhood RN 13 Public non-adopted paths and roads 541 262 (278) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Design work and costings to be agreed with Roads for projects Roads and Neighbourhood RN 14 Cemetery Extension, North Dalnotter 250 188 (62) 31/03/2026 31/07/2026 Final drainage and landscaping work still to be completed Roads and Neighbourhood RN 16 Allotment Development 122 157 34 31/03/2026 30/06/2026 To be funded from Shared Prosperety Fund Roads and Neighbourhood RN 18 Play Area Upgrade Programme 376 444 67 31/03/2030 31/03/2030 Additional safety surfacing was required. Roads and Neighbourhood RN 20 Balloch Mountain Bike Track 15 4 (11) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Due to planning issues with National Park there is a requirement to re-design the track at another location within Balloch Park. This has led to delays in developing a tender package Roads and Neighbourhood RN 23 Creation of 3 new all weather pitches at Argyll Park, Lachie Stewart Memorial Park and Mountblow playing fields 50 2 (48) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Planning and contractural issues have resulted in delays to commencement of works Roads and Neighbourhood RN 24 Exxon City Deal 20,585 14,369 (6,216) 31/03/2028 31/03/2028 Project underway, spend not in line with projection due to delays to works on site and defect completion on Network Rail works Roads and Neighbourhood RN 25 Active Travel 942 427 (514) 31/03/2028 31/03/2028 Project externally funded and agreement made to deliver in 26/27 Roads and Neighbourhood RN 29 Roads Lining and Signing 150 83 (67) 31/03/2027 31/03/2027 Works ongoing to complete DPE lining as delay caused by weather Roads and Neighbourhood RN 30 Plant and Machinery Replacement 516 78 (438) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Longer lead time for delivery of machines than was expected Roads and Neighbourhood RN 32 People and Places - Transport Scotland 35 26 (9) 31/03/2026 31/03/2026 Works completed under budget. Can not be carried forward Roads and Neighbourhood RN 34 Nature Restoration Fund 185 81 (104) 31/03/2026 31/08/2026 Some seasonally dependant works still to be carried out. Education EDUC 1 AV Equipment - Education 96 113 17 31/03/2030 31/03/2030 Change in approach to replacement of items in 2025/26 due to staff shortage. Will be addressed in 2026/27 Education EDUC 3 Schools Estate Improvement Plan - next Phase - Faifley Campus 8,994 9,060 66 31/03/2027 31/03/2027 Overspend to be accelerated from FY26/27 - Demolition of Edinbarnet, Auchnacraig and EC still to be carried out Education EDUC 4 Schools Estate Improvement Plan 1,181 825 (356) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Programme of works to be confirmed Page 97
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Education EDUC 5 Free School Meals Expansion 51 57 6 31/03/2026 31/03/2028 Free School Meals Expansion relates to works required to support the delivery of statutory obligations, including necessary kitchen, dining and associated facility upgrades. Budget has been accelerated from 2026/27 to accommodate preparatory works, ensuring the programme is in place to meet implementation requirements. HSCP HSCP 1 Special Needs - Aids & Adaptations for HSCP clients 935 917 (18) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 There is a slight underspend in this project for 2025/26 due to the nature of budget and fluidity of spend. This is a recurring budget and underspend requires to be carried forward due to likely demographic growth in client demand. HSCP HSCP 2 ICT Modernisation HSCP 114 42 (72) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Discussion around the website upgrade, which was planned for 2025/26, took longer than planned but the service are hoping to move forward early in the 2026/27 financial year. HSCP HSCP 3 Community Alarm upgrade 272 292 20 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Overspend due to additional staff time of community alarm staff involved in the installation of alarms. People & Technology P&T 1 ICT Modernisation 578 731 153 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Overspend ocurred due to timing of supplier invoices which resulted in two large device orders being paid from 25/26 budget instead of 26/27 as planned. Devices were ordered early to avoid device prices increase of over 20%. People & Technology P&T 2 ICT Security & DR 737 678 (59) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Underspend due to security hardware projects carrying forward into next budget year. People & Technology P&T 3 365 Implementation 226 202 (23) 31/03/2026 31/03/2027 Delays throughout the project year has resulted in phased work being carried forward into the 26/27 budget period. The remaining budget will be used as originally forecast. People & Technology P&T 4 Development of Workforce Management System 2 2 (0) 31/03/2027 31/03/2027 This is a 5 year rolling programme, project date extended to reflect this. People & Technology P&T 5 Data Strategy 27 0 (27) 31/03/2026 31/07/2026 Delayed start to discovery work to enable full engagement, project commencing in Q3 25/26 would have resulted in limited availability for services to participate resulting in a detrimental impact on the end strategy. (10,264) Page 98
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West Dunbartonshire Council Appendix 4 General Services Capital 2025/26 All Projects Approved at P12 Service Project Completion Date Revised End Date Project Life Budget Spend to 31/03/2025 Actual Spend in 2025/26 Projected Future Spend Total Updated Projected Spend Approved Budget 2025/26 Actual to date 2025/26 In Year Variance Overspend Underspend Re-profiling £000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 RES 1 Valuation Joint Board - Requisition of ICT Equipment 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 30 17 4 9 30 4 4 (0) (0) RES 2 Agresso Development 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 92 86 2 4 92 6 2 (4) (4) RES 4 Community Success Capital Fund 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 150 0 0 150 150 21 0 (21) (21) RES 5 Community Sports Success 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 250 10 9 231 250 9 9 35 35 RES 6 Strathleven Place (formerly part of Glencairn House project) 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 1,590 0 0 1,590 1,590 0 0 0 RES 7 New Sports Changing Facility Dumbarton West (Old OLSP site) 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 349 9 9 331 349 0 9 9 9 RES 8 Building Upgrades and H&S - lifecycle & reactive building upgrades 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 24,704 0 3,061 21,643 24,704 2,536 3,061 525 525 RES 9 Direct Project Support 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 14,274 0 3,336 12,688 16,024 1,586 3,336 1,750 1,750 RES 10 Depot Rationalisation 31 March 2027 31 March 2027 8,500 2,335 273 5,892 8,500 500 273 (227) (227) RES 11 Finance Ledger System 31 March 2027 31 March 2027 800 34 222 544 800 212 222 10 10 RES 12 Community Sports Facility at Millburn 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 500 0 16 484 500 20 16 (4) (4) RES 13 Holm Park Community Football Academy Accesibility Project 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 75 0 56 19 75 75 56 (19) (19) RES 14 4G Football pitch at Faifley Knowles 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 150 0 0 150 150 0 0 0 RES 15 Design, Creation, Installation of Digital Content for Glencairn House 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 187 0 0 187 187 187 0 (187) (187) Total Resources 51,650 2,491 6,987 43,923 53,400 5,156 6,987 1,866 1,750 0 116 RR 4 Regeneration/Local Economic Development 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 6,995 0 242 6,752 6,995 258 242 (15) (15) RR 5 Regeneration Fund 31 March 2028 31 March 2029 10,931 7,107 40 3,784 10,931 50 40 (10) (10) RR 6 Place Based Investment 31 March 2026 31 March 2028 2,176 1,401 100 675 2,176 150 100 (50) (50) RR 7 Level Up Funding 31 March 2026 31 March 2028 22,259 11,851 4,860 5,549 22,259 4,379 4,860 481 481 RR 8 Level Up Capacity Funding 31 March 2026 31 March 2028 160 160 0 0 160 0 0 0 RR 9 District Heating Network Expansion 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 11,104 259 (30) 10,875 11,104 201 (30) (231) (231) RR 10 Clyde Mission Catalyst Fund 31 March 2026 31 March 2028 2,000 673 766 561 2,000 625 766 141 141 RR 13 Pride in Place Impact Fund 31 March 2026 31 March 2028 1,500 0 0 1,500 1,500 0 0 0 0 Total Regulatory and Regeneration 57,125 21,450 5,978 29,696 57,125 5,663 5,978 316 0 0 316 RN 1 Infrastructure - Roads 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 23,010 0 2,571 20,439 23,010 2,658 2,571 (87) (87) RN 2 Flood Risk Management 31 March 2026 31 March 2026 2,180 0 632 1,495 2,127 685 632 (53) (53) RN 3 Street lighting and associated electrical infrastructure 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 900 0 102 798 900 100 102 2 2 RN 4 Flood Prevention 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 450 257 131 62 450 193 131 (62) (62) RN 5 Vehicle Replacement 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 13,900 0 4,036 9,864 13,900 5,358 4,036 (1,322) (1,322) RN 6 Auld Street Clydebank - Bond 31 March 2026 31 March 2026 256 214 42 0 0 42 42 0 0 RN 7 Clydebank Charrette, A814 31 March 2026 31 March 2026 4,303 4,251 52 0 0 52 52 (0) (0) RN 9 A813 Road Improvement Phase 1 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 1,579 1,379 8 193 1,579 201 8 (193) (193) RN 10 Traffic Signal Updates 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 300 286 0 14 300 14 0 (14) (14) RN 11 Gruggies Burn Flood Prevention 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 48,160 987 0 47,174 48,160 882 0 (882) (882) RN 12 River Leven Flood Prevention Scheme 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 381 181 0 200 381 200 0 (200) (200) RN 13 Public non-adopted paths and roads 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 1,893 0 262 1,630 1,893 541 262 (278) (278) RN 14 Cemetery Extension, North Dalnotter 31 March 2026 31 July 2026 264 14 188 62 264 250 188 (62) (62) RN 16 Allotment Development 31 March 2026 30 June 2026 492 312 157 24 492 122 157 34 34 RN 18 Play Area Upgrade Programme 31 March 2030 31 March 2030 1,413 0 444 970 1,413 376 444 67 67 RN 20 Balloch Mountain Bike Track 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 450 7 4 439 450 15 4 (11) (11) RN 21 Pappert 2G Pitch 31 March 2026 31 March 2026 251 8 161 0 0 242 161 (81) (81) RN 23 Creation of 3 new all weather pitches at Argyll Park, Lachie Stewart Memorial Park and Mountblow playing fields 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 1,450 47 2 1,402 1,450 50 2 (48) (48) RN 24 Exxon City Deal 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 46,942 11,370 14,369 21,204 46,942 20,585 14,369 (6,216) (6,216) RN 25 Active Travel 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 942 0 427 514 942 942 427 (514) (514) RN 26 Strathclyde Partnership for Transport - Bus, cycling and walking infrastructure improvements & Park and Rides 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 278 0 0 0 0 278 0 (278) (278) RN 27 Transport Scotland 24-25 Implementation 20MPH Speed Limits 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 458 0 112 0 0 458 112 (346) (346) RN 28 Review of schools speed Limits 31 March 2028 31 March 2028 75 0 27 0 0 75 27 (48) (48) RN 29 Roads Lining and Signing 31 March 2027 31 March 2027 150 0 83 67 150 150 83 (67) (67) RN 30 Plant and Machinery Replacement 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 1,316 0 78 1,238 1,316 516 78 (438) (438) RN 31 Bus Infrastructure Fund 31 March 2026 31 March 2026 50 0 18 0 0 50 18 (32) (32) RN 32 People and Places - Transport Scotland 31 March 2026 31 March 2026 35 0 26 9 35 35 26 (9) (9) RN 33 Shared Prosperity Funding - Open Places 31 March 2026 31 August 2026 396 0 0 396 396 0 0 0 RN 34 Nature Restoration Fund 31 March 2026 31 August 2026 185 0 81 104 185 185 81 (104) (104) RN 35 Road Safety Improvement Fund 31 March 2026 31 March 2026 185 0 55 0 0 185 55 (130) (130) RN 36 Food Waste Vehicles 31 March 2027 31 March 2027 500 0 0 500 500 0 0 0 RN 37 CCTV Upgrade at Depots 31 March 2027 31 March 2027 50 0 0 50 50 0 0 0 RN 38 Gully Motor Purchase 31 March 2027 31 March 2027 275 0 0 275 275 0 0 0 RN 39 Milton Park MUGA 31 March 2026 31 March 2026 109 0 109 0 109 109 109 0 Total Roads and Neighbourhood 153,579 19,312 24,177 109,121 147,671 35,548 24,177 (11,372) 0 (969) (10,402) EDUC 1 AV Equipment - Education 31 March 2030 31 March 2030 859 356 113 390 859 96 113 17 17 EDUC 3 Schools Estate Improvement Plan - next Phase - Faifley Campus 31 March 2027 31 March 2027 36,515 24,767 9,060 2,688 36,515 8,994 9,060 66 66 EDUC 4 Schools Estate Improvement Plan 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 21,904 19,921 825 1,158 21,904 1,181 825 (356) (356) EDUC 5 Free School Meals Expansion 31 March 2026 31 March 2028 1,265 23 57 1,185 1,265 51 57 6 6 Total Education 60,543 45,067 10,055 5,421 60,543 10,322 10,055 (267) 0 0 (267) HSCP 1 Special Needs - Aids & Adaptations for HSCP clients 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 6,816 0 917 5,899 6,816 935 917 (18) (18) HSCP 2 ICT Modernisation HSCP 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 969 0 42 927 969 114 42 (72) (72) HSCP 3 Community Alarm upgrade 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 435 0 292 143 435 272 292 20 20 Total HSCP 8,220 0 1,251 6,969 8,220 1,321 1,251 (70) 0 0 (70) In YearFull Project Life Year-end Position Page 99
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Service Project Completion Date Revised End Date Project Life Budget Spend to 31/03/2025 Actual Spend in 2025/26 Projected Future Spend Total Updated Projected Spend Approved Budget 2025/26 Actual to date 2025/26 In Year Variance Overspend Underspend Re-profiling £000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 P&T 1 ICT Modernisation 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 4,579 0 731 3,848 4,579 578 731 153 153 P&T 2 ICT Security & DR 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 3,833 0 678 3,155 3,833 737 678 (59) (59) P&T 3 365 Implementation 31 March 2026 31 March 2027 983 757 202 23 983 226 202 (23) (23) P&T 4 Development of Workforce Management System 31 March 2027 31 March 2027 110 0 2 108 110 2 2 (0) (0) P&T 5 Data Strategy 31 March 2026 31 July 2026 27 0 0 27 27 27 0 (27) (27) Total P&T 9,532 757 1,614 7,161 9,532 1,570 1,614 44 0 0 44 Overall Total 340,650 89,078 50,061 202,292 336,492 59,582 50,061 (9,483) 1,750 (969) (10,264) Page 100
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by the Chief Officer – Resources Council – 17 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Subject: Housing Revenue Account Outturn for Financial Year 2025/2026 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this report is to advise members of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) outturn position for 2025/2026. 2. Recommendations 2.1 Members are asked to: i. note the HRA outturn 2025/26 surplus of £0.512m, a projected favourable variance (underspend) of £0.477m. ii. note the 31 March 2026 HRA reserve position of £1.122m which is £0.038m below the HRA prudential target of £1.160m. 3. Background 3.1 The Council approved the 2025/26 HRA revenue budget on the 5 March 2025 with a prudential reserve target of £1.160m. HRA prudential reserves were £0.610m on 31 March 2025. 4. Main Issues 4.1 The HRA 2025/26 surplus is £0.512m, a reduction of £0.567m on the period 10 forecast surplus of £1.079m. The movement between outturn and BCR10 is summarised in Exhibit 1. The variance between the outturn and the budget is summarised in Exhibit 2. The key changes over the last period are: • Reduction in employee spend due to tight controls on recruitment and an increase to the employee costs allocated to non HRA services. • Increase in the HRA central support allocation following a comprehensive review of the allocation model during 2025/26. • Reduction in repair spend due to tighter controls over repair spend. • Increase in the open space spend due to the Council decision in December 2025 to charge the HRA additional costs required to improve HRA open space. • Increase in the bad debt provision following a review of rechargeable repair recovery rates. • Reduction in void loss reflecting lower void house numbers in the last quarter. • Increase in HRA loan expenses due to HRA capital debt increasing as a share of overall council capital debt. ITEM 15 Page 101
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Exhibit 1 – Movement between Outturn and BCR10 Budget Heading Out-turn £m Forecast BCR10 £m Change £m Key Driver Employees 7.630 8.043 (0.413) Increase in staff costs reallocated from HRA to non HRA services. Property 1.351 1.273 0.078 Electricity costs exceeded forecast. Transport 0.208 0.201 0.007 Supplies & Services 0.477 0.467 0.010 Central Support 3.074 2.586 0.488 Review of central support allocation model increased the charge to the HRA revenue account. Other Expenditure 0.374 0.371 0.003 Repairs & Maintenance 12.342 12.477 (0.135) Responsive repairs spend was below forecast. Open Space Maintenance 0.843 0.664 0.179 Council decision to increase grass cutting with an associated £0.140m charge to the HRA for works carried out on HRA land. There was also an additional charge applied by Greenspace for full cost recovery on additional works undertaken. Bad Debt Provision 1.812 1.519 0.293 Provision increased for rechargeable repair debt that has a low recovery rate. Void Loss / Council Tax 1.060 1.125 (0.065) Reduced number of void houses in the final quarter of the year. Loan Charges 27.337 27.227 0.110 Loan charge expenses exceeded forecast. HRA Expenditure 56.508 55.953 0.555 HRA Income (57.020) (57.032) 0.012 HRA Surplus (0.512) (1.079) 0.567 Exhibit 2 – Outturn compared to Budget 25/26 Budget Heading Out-turn £m Budget 2025/26 £m Variance £m Employees 7.630 7.855 (0.225) Property 1.351 1.264 0.087 Transport 0.208 0.154 0.054 Supplies & Services 0.477 0.418 0.059 Central Support 3.074 2.584 0.490 Other Expenditure 0.374 0.420 (0.046) Repairs & Maintenance 12.342 12.173 0.169 Open Space Maintenance 0.843 0.908 (0.065) Bad Debt Provision 1.812 1.119 0.693 Void Loss / Council Tax 1.060 0.831 0.229 Loan Charges 27.337 29.055 (1.718) HRA Expenditure 56.508 56.781 (0.273) HRA Income (57.020) (56.816) (0.204) HRA Surplus (0.512) (0.035) (0.477) 4.2 The key variances between outturn and budget are detailed below. Page 102
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Employee Costs - £0.225m Favourable. 4.3 Previous reports to Council highlighted employee cost pressures due to increased national insurance costs and higher than budgeted pay awards. Managers reviewed staff activity at the end of the financial year and identified increased costs attributable to non HRA revenue services including homelessness, decriminalised parking, HRA capital, and the Housing Maintenance Trading Account. These increased costs were transferred out of the HRA revenue account and delivered an employee cost underspend. Property Costs - £0.087m Adverse. 4.4 Previous reports highlighted a property cost pressure due to the block building insurance cancellation penalty and increased property insurance premiums. The HRA also incurred higher than budgeted electricity costs. These additional costs have been partly offset by underspends on other property cost budgets including rates, gas, and the office accommodation recharge. Central Support Costs - £0.490 Adverse. 4.5 Finance undertook a review of the Council’s Central Support Allocation (CSA) model during 2025/26 to assess the appropriate allocation of corporate support costs to service users including the Housing Revenue Account. The amount charged to the Housing Revenue Account exceeded the 2025/26 budget for HRA CSA costs thereby creating an overspend / adverse variance. Repairs and Maintenance - £0.169m Adverse. 4.6 Previous reports highlighted a repair cost pressure due to the high demand across the responsive repair and advised that a range of mitigations were in place to address the cost pressure including tighter controls on contractor use, the capitalisation of Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) spend that complements the environmental sensor programme, and the stringent application of the rechargeable repairs policy. The overspend reflects the ongoing cost pressure across this service area. Open Space Maintenance - £0.065m Favourable. 4.7 Previous reports highlighted a favourable variance against the open space maintenance budget reflecting the close working between housing and greenspace staff to deliver savings through revised work specifications and streamlined processes in relation to void and temporary accommodation properties. 4.8 However, at IRED Committee of 13 August 2025, Housing Committee on 20 August 2025 and Council meeting in December 2025 it was agreed to increase grass cutting with associated one off costs to the HRA of £140k in 2025/26 (£65k towards HRA extra grass cutting and £75k towards the cost of seasonal staff to reinstate HRA grass cutting to 2024/25 levels). In addition to this charge a further charge of £64k was applied at year-end by Greenspace in line with full cost recovery of service provided. Therefore, although year- end had a favourable position, it was lower than anticipated due to the increased costs to be paid for open maintenance works in 2025/26. Page 103
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Bad Debt Provision - £0.693m Adverse. 4.09 Previous reports highlighted that performance recovering debt and outstanding debt levels is kept under constant review and that HRA debt levels have increased alongside the increase in the amount billed to tenants / owners. A review of the collection rate for rechargeable repair debt led to an increase in the amount set aside for future irrecoverable debt. Void Loss / Council Tax - £0.229m Adverse. 4.10 Previous reports highlighted cost pressures across the HRA council tax budget and void loss budgets. While there has been considerable progress in reducing void numbers and void rent loss, including further reductions in the number of void houses in the final quarter of the last financial year, expenditure exceeded budget. Reducing void loss and council tax payments remains an operational priority and the Council’s Void Working Group and Building Services Improvement Plan will support further improvement in this key area. Loan Charges - £1.718m Favourable. 4.11 Previous reports highlighted that a range of measures would contribute to a significant underspend on HRA loan charges including reduced HRA borrowing, early termination of long-term fixed rate loans that delivered a one- off benefit to the HRA, and the allocation of funds held in a General Fund suspense account to reduce HRA debt. The outturn was in line with earlier forecasts. 4.12 Members will be aware of the significant risk and uncertainty around forecasting local authority borrowing costs and recent geopolitical events in the Middle East have contributed to an increase in the interest rates payable on new temporary and new Public Work Loans Board (PWLB) borrowing. Consequently, there is a risk that debt interest payments exceed budget in the short term. Income - £0.204m Favourable. 4.13 Previous reports advised that the favourable variance against the HRA income budget related to a prudent approach when setting the rental income budget given the uncertainty over the timing of new build and buy back properties being available for rent. The outturn was in line with earlier forecast. 5. People Implications 5.1 There are no people implications. 6. Financial and Procurement Implications 6.1 Other than the financial position noted above, there are no financial implications of the budgetary control report. There are no procurement implications arising from this report. Page 104
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7. Risk Analysis 7.1 None 8. Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) 8.1 The report is for noting and therefore no Equalities Impact Assessment was completed for this report. 9. Consultation 9.1 All services involved in delivering the HRA revenue budget have been consulted during the compilation of this report. 10. Strategic Assessment 10.1 Proper budgetary control and sound financial practice are cornerstones of good governance and support Council and officers to pursue the five strategic priorities of the Council’s Strategic Plan. This report forms part of the financial governance of the Council. This report is for noting and, therefore, does not directly affect any of the strategic priorities. Laurence Slavin Chief Officer – Resources Date: 17 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Person to Contact: Jim McCarron - Business Unit Finance Partner Telephone: 07772 322055 e-mail james.mccarron@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendices: Appendix 1 - Budgetary Position (Revenue) Appendix 2 - Variance analysis (Revenue) Background Papers: None Wards Affected: All Page 105
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 1 HRA REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 PERIOD END DATE 31 March 2026 Budget 2025/26 Outturn 2025/26 Annual RAG Status £000 £000 £000 % Employee Costs 7,855 7,630 (225) -3% Property Costs 1,264 1,351 87 7% Transport Costs 154 208 54 0% Supplies, Services And Admin 418 477 59 14% Support Services 2,584 3,074 490 19% Other Expenditure 420 374 (46) -11% Repairs & Maintenance 12,173 12,342 169 1% Open Space Maintenance 908 843 (65) -7% Bad Debt Provision 1,119 1,812 693 62% Void Loss (Council Tax / Lost Rents) 831 1,060 229 28% Loan Charges / CFCR 29,055 27,337 (1,718) -6% Total Expenditure 56,781 56,508 (273) 0% House Rental Income (55,961) (56,139) (178) 0% Lockup Rental Income (232) (234) (2) 1% Other Rental income (137) (141) (4) 3% Factoring Income (448) (430) 18 -4% Miscellaneous Income (38) (76) (38) 100% Total Income (56,816) (57,020) (204) 0% Net Expenditure (35) (512) (477) Subjective Summary Variance 2025/26 Page 107
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 HRA REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 MONTH END DATE 31 March 2026 PERIOD 12 Budget 2025/26 Actual 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Employee Costs 7,855 7,630 (225) -3% Main Issues Outcome Budget 2025/26 Actual 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Property Costs 1,264 1,351 87 7% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Budget 2025/26 Actual 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Transport Costs 154 208 54 35% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Underspend Subjective Analysis Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Subjective Description HRA property costs out with the repair and maintenance of council dwellings. This includes rates for shops and offices, utility costs, insurance, cost of HRA offices. Variance Narrative Council agreed at its October 2025 meeting to an early termination of the owners' block building insurance contract. The early termination requires the HRA to pay a termination fee of £187,000. Insurance premium costs also came in over budget. Underspends across other property budgets minimised the overspend. Overspend Subjective Description HRA transport costs, primarily caretaking service. Variance Analysis Subjective Analysis Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Subjective Description Employees charged to the HRA. This excludes employees recharged through the Central Support Allocation model. Variance Narrative A higher than budgeted pay award and increased employer national insurance costs created a cost pressure. This pressure was offset by a recharge of staff cost to services out with the HRA revenue account including the homelessness service, the housing maintenance service and the HRA capital account. Variance Narrative Increased vehicle hire costs were the cause of the overspend. Overspend Variance Analysis Subjective Analysis Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Variance Analysis Page 109
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 HRA REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 MONTH END DATE 31 March 2026 PERIOD 12 Budget 2025/26 Forecast Spend 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Supplies, Services And Admin 418 477 59 14% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Budget 2025/26 Forecast Spend 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Support Services 2,584 3,074 490 19% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Budget 2025/26 Forecast Spend 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Repairs & Maintenance 12,173 12,342 169 1% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Budget 2025/26 Forecast Spend 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Open Space Maintenance 908 843 (65) -7% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Greenspace works across HRA open space. Ad-hoc greenspace works within the curtilage of void properties and within properties let to the homeless service. Variance Narrative Officers reviewed the frequency and specification of greenspace works and delivered spending reductions in line with tenant priorities. Underspend Subjective Description Subjective Description Responsive and planned repair and maintenance services to houses and lockups and income recovered from tenant rechargeable and owner occupier repairs. Variance Narrative A high volume of repair orders and ongoing inflationary pressures are driving up costs, with the most significant pressure across responsive repair budgets. Officers reviewed the repairs spend and identified savings against the 2025/26 repair and maintenance revenue budget by transferring qualifying repair spend to the HRA capital programme, primarily revenue funded works that extends asset lifespan. Furthermore, Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) spend that is complementary to the environmental sensor installation programme has also been funded from the HRA capital programme. Overspend Variance Analysis Subjective Analysis Forecast Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Subjective Analysis Forecast Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Variance Analysis Subjective Description Administrative and ICT software costs including telephony and the cost of publishing and distributing the Housing News. Variance Narrative Increased computer software costs and increased Housing News cost were the cause of the overspend. Overspend Variance Analysis Subjective Analysis Forecast Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Subjective Description The HRA share of central support services ( Finance. ICT, HR, Contact Centre, Revenues and Benefits, Corporate Admin Support etc) Variance Narrative The Central Support Allocation model was refreshed during 2025/2026. The refresh led to an increased charge to Housing Revenue Account. Overspend Variance Analysis Subjective Analysis Forecast Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Page 110
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 HRA REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 MONTH END DATE 31 March 2026 PERIOD 12 Budget 2025/26 Forecast Spend 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Bad Debt Provision 1,119 1,812 693 62% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Budget 2025/26 Forecast Spend 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Void Loss (Council Tax / Lost Rents) 831 1,060 229 28% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Overspend The Council needs to make prudent provision for the non collection of HRA debt. HRA debt has been increasing as officers more stringently apply the rechargeable repairs policy for repairs caused by tenant neglect / abuse. These debts are difficult to collect because tenants often have multiple other debts with the council and others. A review of the bad debt provision identified a need to further increase the amount set aside for irrecoverable debt. Overspend Variance Analysis Subjective Analysis Forecast Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Subjective Description Lost rental income for void houses and lockups and the cost of council tax on long term void properties. Variance Narrative There has been a reduction in the number of void properties. However the reduction was less than budgeted leading to void loss and council tax payments for longer term void houses exceeding budget. The service continues to work with the council tax team / the assessor service to secure maximum relief for several of our longer-term void properties. Variance Narrative Variance Analysis Subjective Analysis Forecast Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Subjective Description Provision for uncollected rent across range of HRA debts, including rent arrears, rechargeable repairs and factoring services. Page 111
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL APPENDIX 2 HRA REVENUE BUDGETARY CONTROL 2025/26 ANALYSIS FOR VARIANCES OVER £50,000 MONTH END DATE 31 March 2026 PERIOD 12 Budget 2025/26 Forecast Spend 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % Loan Charges / CFCR 29,055 27,337 (1,718) -6% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome Budget 2025/26 Forecast Spend 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 % House Rental Income (55,961) (56,139) (178) 0% Main Issues Anticipated Outcome A prudent approach was taken when setting the income budget from 2025/26 given the uncertainty over the timing of new build and buy back properties being available for rent. Rental income was slightly more than budget. Over-recovery Subjective Analysis Forecast Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Subjective Description Income from the letting of housing stock to tenants and to the homeless service. Variance Narrative Variance Analysis Variance Analysis Subjective Analysis Forecast Variance 2025/26 RAG Status Subjective Description Loans Fund repayments and the payment of interest and expenses on outstanding HRA debt. Variance Narrative HRA capital debt at 31 March 2025 was lower than forecast and this has reduced debt servicing costs across debt repayment and debt interest. Furthermore, HRA capital spend 2025/26 is less than budget, lowering the HRA borrowing requirement in 2025/26 and, consequently, lowering interest payments. Finally, Council agreed in October 25 to transfer £1.992m of Energy Efficiency Scotland Area Based Scheme (EESABS) funding to the HRA. This funding will be used to reduce HRA capital debt, further lowering HRA debt interest payments. Underspend Page 112
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by the Chief Officer – Resources Council – 17 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Subject: Housing Revenue Account Capital Outturn for Financial Year 2025/2026 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this report is to advise members of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital outturn position for 2025/2026. 2. Recommendations 2.1 Council is asked to: i) Note the outturn position against the 2025/26 HRA capital plan 3. Background 3.1 The Council approved the HRA Capital Plan for 2025/26 to 2029/30 on 5 March 2025. The HRA capital plan approved £70.590m of capital expenditure and £15.324m of capital income in 2025/26, creating a borrowing requirement of £55.266m. 3.2 At its meeting on the 27 August 2025, the Housing and Communities Committee agreed budget adjustments that revised the 2025/26 capital expenditure budget to £55.547m and the capital income budget to £6.290m, an updated one-year borrowing requirement of £49.257m. Committee also approved a revised project life budget of £264.933m. A summary of the outturn against the revised capital budgets is set out in Exhibit 1. Exhibit 1: HRA Capital Outturn 2025/26 Actual (£m) 2025/26 Budget (£m) Variance (£m) Project Life Budget (£m) Other Capital 5.919 7.433 (1.514) 26.267 Component Replacement 13.592 20.881 (7.289) 93.567 Void 5.744 5.258 0.486 19.873 Structural & Environmental 1.693 3.762 (2.069) 17.320 Support Costs 2.918 3.100 (0.182) 17.155 More Homes 19.894 15.113 4.781 171.129 Total Expenditure 49.760 55.547 (5.787) 345.311 Total Income (12.396) (6.290) (6.016) (80.378) Net Capital Expenditure 37.364 49.257 (11.893) 264.933 ITEM 16 Page 113
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4. Main Issues 4.1 Progress against the 2025/26 HRA capital plan is detailed in Appendix 1. 4.2 Commentary on the variances above £50,000 are set out in Exhibit 2 below. Exhibit 2: Project Over / Underspends 2025/2026 Ref Project Actual (£m) 25/26 Budget (£m) 25/26 Variance (£m) Commentary 1 Capitalised Minor Works 3.273 3.715 (0.442) Underspend due to reduced contractor spend. 2 Better Homes Priority Projects 0.033 0.275 (0.242) Underspend based on timing of programme. 3 Environmental Sensors 1.191 2.000 (0.809) Underspend due to challenges getting access to properties. 4 Targeted SHQS /EESSH compliance works 3.712 6.628 (2.916) Underspend reflects the changing mix of the capital programme with an increased number of mixed tenure blocks that require owner consent before work can start. This necessary process delays project start. 5 External Component Renewal - Roofs 1.187 2.550 (1.363) Underspend reflects the changing mix of the capital programme with an increased number of mixed tenure blocks that require owner consent before work can start. This necessary process delays project start. 6 Doors/Window Component Renewals 4.215 4.985 (0.770) Underspend is due to challenges getting access to property. Install team to continue programmed addresses and revisit no accesses to use materials already supplied. 7 External Stores / Garages / Bin Stores 0.000 0.048 (0.048) Works funded from the capitalised minor works budget. 8 Secure entry component renewals 0.000 0.100 (0.100) Works funded from the capitalised minor works budget. 9 Statutory / Compliance Works 0.095 0.594 (0.499) Health and safety works funded from the capitalised minor works budget. Page 114
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Ref Project Actual (£m) 25/26 Budget (£m) 25/26 Variance (£m) Commentary 10 Heating Improvement Works 1.646 2.268 (0.622) Overspend due to reduced demand for replacement heating systems 11 Energy Improvements / Efficiency Works 0.000 0.058 (0.058) Works funded from the capitalised minor works budget. 12 Kitchen Upgrade 2.022 2.850 (0.828) Underspend as team re- assess and pre-inspect to ensure a focus on necessary renewals led by condition. 13 Bathroom & Shower Replacement 0.715 0.800 (0.085) Underspend as team re- assess and pre-inspect to ensure a focus on necessary renewals led by condition. 14 Void House Programme 5.744 5.258 0.486 Overspend due to mix of work requiring contactors in addition to in-house team. 15 Defective structures /component renewals 0.170 0.800 (0.630) Underspend as future blocks are pre-inspected for condition and re-prioritisation for completion if necessary. 16 Environmental Renewal - Paths & Environment 1.078 1.000 0.078 Overspend due to mix of work requiring contactors in addition to in-house team. 17 Multi Storey Flat Strategy 0.158 1.720 (1.562) Underspend based on timing of programme. 18 Buy Backs 3.528 4.380 (0.852) Underspend due to lower purchase price of acquired properties 19 Demolition Programme 0.232 0.140 0.092 Overspend based on timing of programme. 20 Clydebank East 0.601 0.250 0.351 Overspend due to retentions being accrued into current financial year. 21 Pappert 1.012 0.730 0.282 Overspend due to retentions being accrued into current financial year. 22 Mount Pleasant 0.464 0.382 0.082 Overspend due to retentions being accrued into current financial year. 23 Gilmour Avenue 0.326 0.264 0.062 Overspend due to contractor liquidation and the need to procure a replacement contractor. Page 115
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Ref Project Actual (£m) 25/26 Budget (£m) 25/26 Variance (£m) Commentary 24 Willox Park Phase1 3.465 2.980 0.485 Overspend due to retentions being accrued into current financial year. 25 Bank Street 1.657 1.500 0.157 Overspend based on timing of programme. 26 Bonhill Gap Sites 5.112 1.600 3.512 Overspend based on timing of programme. 27 West Thomson Street 0.462 0.375 0.087 Overspend based on timing of programme. 28 Silverton 0.007 0.100 (0.093) Underspend based on timing of programme. 29 Queen Mary Avenue 2.429 0.800 1.629 Overspend based on timing of programme. 30 Dennystoun Forge 0.000 0.400 (0.400) Underspend based on timing of programme. 31 Ottawa Crescent 0.413 0.250 0.163 Overspend based on timing of programme. 32 Future New Build & Related Regeneration Projects 0.000 0.550 (0.550) Underspend based on timing of programme. 33 Fees, Contingency 0.017 0.150 (0.133) Underspend based on timing of programme. 34 Scottish Govt Buyback Grant Income (1.326) (0.550) (0.776) Over-recovery based on the distribution of Scottish Government acquisition funding. 35 7 – 9 Gilmour Avenue Grant Income 0.000 (0.120 (0.120) Under-recovery due to ongoing negotiations with Scottish Government over additional funding 36 Willox Park Phase 2 Grant Income (0.127) 0.000 (0.127) Over-recovery based on the on timing of programme. 37 Bank Street Grant Income (1.049) (1.500) 0.451 Under-recovery based on the on timing of programme. 38 Bonhill Gap Sites Grant Income (3.360) (1.600) (1.760) Over-recovery based on the on timing of programme. 39 West Thomson Street Grant Income (0.518) (0.375) (0.143) Over-recovery based on the on timing of programme. 40 Queen Mary Avenue (1.649) 0.000 (1.649) Over-recovery based on the on timing of programme. Page 116
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Ref Project Actual (£m) 25/26 Budget (£m) 25/26 Variance (£m) Commentary 41 Ottawa Crescent Grant Income (0.379) 0.000 (0.379) Over-recovery based on the on timing of programme. 42 Future new build sites & regeneration projects Grant Income 0.000 (0.060) 0.060 Funding released to support accelerated projects 43 Owner Recoveries (1.613) (1.500) (0.113) Over-recovery based on higher than anticipated invoicing of owners participating in capital projects. 44 Other Grant Income (2.196) (0.406) (1.790) Additional funding secured to support capital investment including more than £1m for cladding remediation works and circa £800,000 to support the acquisition and refurbishment of properties allocated to the resettlement service. 5. Option Appraisal 5.1 No option appraisal was required for this report. 6. People Implications 6.1 There are no people implications. 7. Financial and Procurement Implications 7.1 The report notes the outturn position for the HRA capital plan. 8. Risk Analysis 8.1 This is an outturn report therefore there are no risk implications. 9. Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) 9.1 No equalities impact assessment was required in relation to this report. 10. Environmental Sustainability 10.1 No assessment of environmental sustainability was required in relation to this report. Page 117
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11. Consultation 11.1 All services involved in delivering the capital estimates have been consulted during the compilation of this report. 12. Strategic Assessment 12.1 Proper budgetary control and sound financial practice are cornerstones of good governance and support Council and officers to pursue the strategic priorities of the Council’s current Strategic Plan. This report forms part of the financial governance of the Council. ________________ Laurence Slavin Chief Officer – Resources Date: 17 June 2026 Person to Contact: Jim McCarron Business Partner, Finance 07772 322055 E-mail: james.mccarron@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendices: Appendix 1 - HRA Capital Detail Final Outturn Background Papers: Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Investment Programme, Revenue Budget, and Rent Levels for 2025/26 - Council 5 March 2025. Wards Affected All Wards Page 118
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Appendix 1 Project Category Approved Budget 2025/26 Actual Spend 2025/26 In Year Variance 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 Special Needs Adaptations Rolling 668 693 25 Capitalised Minor Works Rolling 3,715 3,273 (442) Better Homes Priority Budget Rolling 275 33 (242) Environmental Sensors Programme Rolling 2,000 1,191 (809) Housing CCTV Installation Programme Rolling 750 716 (34) QL Development Rolling 10 13 3 Gypsy Travellers Site Rolling 15 - (15) Airport Noise Rolling - - - Other Capital Expenditure 7,433 5,919 (1,514) Targeted SHQS /EESSH compliance works Rolling 6,628 3,712 (2,916) External Component Renewal - Roofs Rolling 2,550 1,187 (1,363) Doors/Windows Component Renewals Rolling 4,985 4,215 (770) External Stores / Garages / Bin Stores Rolling 48 - (48) Secure entry component renewals Rolling 100 - (100) Statutory / Regulatory Compliance Works Rolling 594 95 (499) Heating Improvement Works Rolling 2,268 1,646 (622) Energy Improvements / Energy Efficiency Works Rolling 58 - (58) Kitchen Upgrade Rolling 2,850 2,022 (828) Bathroom & Shower Replacement Rolling 800 715 (85) Major Component Replacement 20,881 13,592 (7,289) Void House Strategy Programme Rolling 5,258 5,744 486 Void Capital 5,258 5,744 486 Defective structures/component renewals Rolling 800 170 (630) Environmental Renewal - Paths & Environment Rolling 1,000 1,078 78 Asbestos Management Works Rolling 242 287 45 Multi Storey Flat Strategy Rolling 1,720 158 (1,562) Structural & Environmental 3,762 1,693 (2,069) Salaries / Central Support / Overhead Rolling 3,100 2,918 (182) Support Costs 3,100 2,918 (182) Buy Backs Rolling 4,380 3,528 (852) Demolition Programme Rolling 140 232 92 Contingency Rolling 102 - (102) Clydebank East Project 250 601 351 Pappert Project 730 1,012 282 Mount Pleasant Project 382 464 82 7-9 Gilmour Avenue Project 264 326 62 Willox Park Phase1 Project 2,980 3,465 485 Willox Park Phase2 Project 100 108 8 Bank Street Project 1,500 1,657 157 Bonhill Gap Sites Project 1,600 5,112 3,512 West Thomson Street Project 375 462 87 Silverton Project 100 7 (93) Queen Mary Avenue Project 800 2,429 1,629 Queens Quay Site C Project - - - Dennystoun Forge – New Build Project 400 - (400) 28 Bridge Street Project 60 61 1 Ottawa Crescent Project 250 413 163 Future New Build & Related Regeneration Projects Rolling 550 - (550) Fees, Staffing Costs, contingency Rolling 150 17 (133) Affordable Housing Supply Programme 15,113 19,894 4,781 Total Expenditure 55,547 49,760 (5,787) Page 119
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Appendix 1 Project Category Approved Budget 2025/26 Actual Income 2025/26 In Year Variance 2025/26 £000 £000 £000 Scottish Govt Buyback Grant Rolling (550) (1,326) (776) Clydebank East Project - - - Pappert Site Project (250) (250) - Mount Pleasant Project - - - 7-9 Gilmour Avenue Project (120) 0 120 Willox Park Phase1 Project - - - Willox Park Phase2 Project - (127) (127) Bank Street Project (1,500) (1,049) 451 Bonhill Gap Sites Project (1,600) (3,360) (1,760) West Thomson Street Project (375) (518) (143) Silverton Project - - - Queen Mary Avenue Project - (1,649) (1,649) Queens Quay Site C Project 72 72 - Dennystoun Forge – New Build Project - 0 - 28 Bridge Street Project - 0 - Ottawa Crescent Project - (379) (379) Future new build sites & related regeneration projects Rolling (60) 0 60 Owners Recoveries Rolling (1,500) (1,613) (113) Other Grant Rolling (406) (2,196) (1,790) HRA Loan Repayments Rolling (1) (1) - Total Income (6,290) (12,396) (6,106) Net Capital Expenditure 49,257 37,364 (11,893) Page 120
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Chief Officer - Roads and Neighbourhood West Dunbartonshire Council - 17 June 2026 Subject: Crematorium 1 Purpose The purpose of this report is to provide the information requested in the amendment agreed at IRED Committee on 20 May 2026 in relation to weekend access to the Hall of Remembrance. 2 Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that Council: i) Note the actions taken by the Service to deliver the saving option agreed in March 2026. ii) Note the costs set out within the report in item 4.6. 3 Background 3.1 Clydebank Crematorium is available for cremations for both residents and non residents. The books of remembrance are located in the Hall of Remembrance at the crematorium. 3.2 As part of the 2026/27 budget setting process Council agreed that cremations and viewings of the Book of Remembrance would be offered Monday to Friday only with the crematorium closed to the public at weekends 3.3 The service changes were implemented on 1 May 2026. 3.4 The cost to provide staffing for Saturday and Sunday operation is approximately £25,000 overtime, which exceeds the £5,000 budget allocated. 3.5 Overtime will continue to be utilised to cover essential activities including crematorium cooldown following cremations taking place later in the day. ITEM 17 Page 121
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4 Main Issues 4.1 On 20 May 2026 the IRED Committee approved the following: “that a short report be submitted to the Council meeting of 17 June 2026, setting out all the options available for members of the public to access the Book of Remembrance at the Crematorium, on weekends.” 4.2 The overtime cost during 2024/25 and 2025/26 was in the region of £25,000/ year. This is split between Saturday at a cost of £16,500 and Sunday at a cost of £8,500. The overtime costs reflect the workforce in attendance each day to undertake the activities with cremations undertaken on a Saturday morning. 4.3 A review of the number of Saturday cremations booked in the previous 2 financial years determined that there were adequate weekday bookings available to accommodate these. The available booking slots and number of Saturday cremations are set out in the following table: Year Annual Saturday Cremations Available Weekday Bookings 2024/25 81 255 2025/26 68 407 4.4 The books of remembrance are located within the Hall of Remembrance. Viewing requires an employee to be in attendance to access the requested date of entry. The books are stored within glass cabinets to protect the books, some of which are particularly fragile. Visitors may request an alternative date that requires a particular book to be sourced and shared. This means that there is not an opportunity to manage access without employees being present. 4.5 Most visitors attend on the anniversary of their loved ones passing however there are a number that attend at other dates throughout the year. 4.6 Overtime cost to manage access to the Hall of Remembrance are as follows: Employee Resource Cost per week Cost per year 1 day/weekend £115 £6,000 2 day/weekend £230 £12,000 The overtime cost assumes that 4 hours of access will be available. 4.7 Access to the crematorium and cemetery grounds have not been affected by this saving option. Families and other visitors continue to be able to access memorial walls, memorial benches and the remembrance garden over 7 days. Page 122
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5 People Implications 5.1 Any changes to the operational delivery of the crematorium will require workforce considerations. Overtime is not contractual and requires volunteers. 6 Financial & Procurement Implications 6.1 Weekend access to the crematorium would incur a staffing cost which is additional to the budget available for 2026/27. 7 Risk Analysis 7.1 The Council has a duty to deliver services that demonstrate best value in line with Council policy and procedures. 8 Equalities Impact Assessment 8.1 An equalities impact assessment is not required as this is consideration of an existing activity. 9 Consultation 9.1 Engagement has been undertaken through the budget setting process and information has been shared on operating hours on site and through social media. 10 Strategic Assessment 10.1 This report reflects the 2022 – 2027 Strategic Plan and in particular the following Strategic Priorities: • Our Council is adaptable and focused on delivering best value for our residents Chief Officer: Gail Macfarlane Service Area: Roads and Neighbourhood Date: 2 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Page 123
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Person to Contact: Ian Bain Greenspace and Waste Manager ian.bain@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendices: None Background Papers: General Services Budget Setting 2026/27 and 2027/28 – 2030/31 Budget Estimates. Wards Affected: All Page 124
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration Meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council: 17 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Subject: Vacancies on Council Committees 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this report is to request that the Council fills the current list of vacancies on council committees, working groups, joint boards and outside bodies. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Council nominates elected members to fill the various vacant positions listed in the appendix to this report. 3. Background 3.1 The Chief Executive has recently been notified of a number of resignations by individual members of the Council from positions on committees and other bodies. 3.2 Additionally following the Council’s decision to proceed with the Visitor Levy for visits to the Council area with effect from July 2027 there are vacancies of the Visitor Levy Advisory Forum for three elected members and it is suggested that these are filled by two Administration councillors and one opposition member. They will join the Forum comprising community representatives, tourist industry representatives and officers of the Council and Park Authority, to provide advice and representation on the possible spend and administration of the levy. As the Visitor Levy covers the whole of the Council area it is preferable that if possible members should be nominated from localities in the vicinity of each of the Vale of Leven, Dumbarton and Clydebank. 4. Main Issues 4.1 It is important that all vacancies are filled as soon as possible to ensure the effective running of the Council and associate bodies. 5. People Implications 5.1 There are no direct implications for employees of this Council. 6. Financial and Procurement Implications ITEM 18 Page 125
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6.1 There are no financial or procurement implications arising from this report. 7. Risk Analysis 7.1 There is a risk of reputational damage if the Council does not fill these positions. 8. Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) 8.1 There are no impacts on equalities groups arising from the recommendations of this report. 9. Consultation 9.1 Officers from legal and finance have been consulted on the content of this report. 10. Strategic Assessment 10.1 This report does not have a direct impact on the Council’s Strategic priorities. Alan Douglas Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration Date: 4 June 2026 Person to Contact: Carol-Ann Burns, Senior Democratic Services Officer, Municipal Buildings, Station Road, Dumbarton. Telephone 01389 737186 or e-mail: carol- ann.burns@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendix: Appendix 1 – List of vacancies on council committees, etc. as at 2 June 2026. Background Papers: EIA screening. Wards Affected: All Page 126
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West Dunbartonshire Council Vacancies as at 2 June 2026 COMMITTEES COMPOSITION Vacancies Committee (membership) Convener and Depute Convener Labour SNP Others Audit Committee (8) Convener – Gordon Scanlan Depute – Sophie Traynor John Millar Martin Rooney Michelle McGinty Ian Dickson Gordon Scanlan Lauren Oxley Sophie Traynor Vacancy Cultural Committee (5) Convener – Martin Rooney Depute Convener – John Millar Martin Rooney John Millar Lauren Oxley Chris Pollock Vacancy Educational Services Committee (14) (plus 3 x religious reps – (Church of Scotland, Roman Catholic Church, and Episcopalian), 2 x teacher reps, 2 x parent reps, and 2 x MSYPs) Convener – Michelle McGinty Depute Convener – John Millar Gurpreet Singh Johal David McBride Michelle McGinty John Millar Lawrence O’Neill Martin Rooney William Rooney Hazel Sorrell Karen Murray Conaghan Lauren Oxley Gordon Scanlan Sophie Traynor Vacancy 1 Vacancy 2 Licensing Committee (8) Convener – Lawrence O’Neill Depute - Gurpreet Singh Johal Lawrence O’Neill Gurpreet Singh Johal John Millar Hazel Sorrell Ian Dickson Chris Pollock Gordon Scanlan Vacancy Local Review Body (10) All members of Planning Committee (see below) APPENDIX 1 Page 127
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COMPOSITION Vacancies Committee (membership) Convener and Depute Convener Labour SNP Others Planning Committee (10) Convener – Lawrence O’Neill Depute Convener – Gurpreet Singh Johal Lawrence O’Neill Gurpreet Singh Johal Hazel Sorrell Karen Murray Conaghan Ian Dickson Lauren Oxley Chris Pollock Kevin Crawford Vacancy 1 Vacancy 2 COUNCIL WORKING GROUPS Working Group Labour SNP Others Vacancies Member/Officer Working Group on Cost of Living Crisis (4) Michelle McGinty Hazel Sorrell Vacancy 1 Vacancy 2 JOINT BOARDS / COMMITTEES AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS Partnership Meetings P/A Nominations Required Nominee West Dunbartonshire Health & Social Care Partnership Board (Integrated Joint Board) 6 plus 3 Informal Sessions 3 plus 3 proxies Michelle McGinty Martin Rooney John Millar (Sub) Hazel Sorrell (Sub) Other voting members:- Michelle Wailes Libby Cairns Lesley McDonald Vacancy Vacancy (Sub) West Dunbartonshire Health & Social Care Partnership – Audit and Performance Committee 4 3 plus 3 proxies Michelle McGinty Martin Rooney John Millar (Sub) Hazel Sorrell (Sub) Vacancy Vacancy (Sub) Page 128
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Other voting members:- Michelle Wailes Libby Cairns Lesley McDonald West of Scotland Archaeology Service Joint Committee 1 plus 1 sub John Millar (sub) Vacancy OUTSIDE BODIES Organisation Meetings P/A Nominations Elected Member Lomond and Clyde Care and Repair 2 Fiona Hennebry Lawrence O’Neill Vacancy (Sub) 1 Vacancy (Sub) 2 North Strathclyde Area Support Team (local authority member) 4 1 Vacancy Visitor Levy Advisory Forum 2 Administration and 1 Opposition Vacancy Vacancy Vacancy Page 129