Document Pack 18.06.25 (Bookmarked)
West Dunbartonshire Council · 18 June 2025
Back to West Dunbartonshire Council — 18 June 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Agenda West Dunbartonshire Council Date: Wednesday, 18 June 2025 ___________________________________________________________________ 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: 5 June 2025 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, 18 JUNE 2025 AGENDA 1 STATEMENT BY CHAIR – AUDIO STREAMING 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 Submit, for approval as correct record, the Minutes of Meeting of 11 – 18 West Dunbartonshire Council held on 23 April 2025. 7 MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF AUDIT COMMITTEE Submit for information, and where necessary ratification, the Minutes of Meetings of the Audit Committee held on:- (a) 4 September 2024; and 19 – 20 (b) 4 December 2024. 21 – 23 8/ Page 3
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8 RESULTS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT BY-ELECTION HELD ON 25 – 26 15 MAY 2025 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration providing information on the result of the Local Government by-election held in the Clydebank Central Ward on 15 May 2025. 9 REVIEW OF INTEGRATION SCHEME To Follow Submit report by the Chief Officer – Health & Social Care Partnership seeking West Dunbartonshire Council’s approval for the Integration Scheme between the Council and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. 10 GLASGOW CITY REGION CITY DEAL – UPDATE 27 – 29 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration providing an update on the Exxon Infrastructure Project, and matters being discussed by Glasgow City Region. 11 FINANCIAL UPDATE 31 – 36 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources providing an update on the financial challenges and the estimated 2026/27 to 2029/30 revenue budget gaps. 12 UNAUDITED 2024/25 WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL To Follow ANNUAL ACCOUNTS Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources providing a copy of the unaudited 2024/25 West Dunbartonshire Council Annual Accounts and information regarding the 2024/25 outturn as set out in the draft accounts. 13 2023/24 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND 37 – 83 2023/24 ANNUAL AUDIT REPORT Submit report by the Chief Officer – Resources providing Members with the opportunity to scrutinise and approve the 2023/24 Audited Annual Accounts for the Charitable Trust Funds administered by the Council for the year ending 31 March 2024, and providing an update on the accompanying 2023/24 Annual Audit Report. 14/ Page 4
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14 FURTHER APPLICATION UNDER SECTION 42 TO NOT 85 – 104 COMPLY WITH CONDITION 11 OF PLANNING PERMISSION DC21/115/FUL AT QUEENS QUAY FULL DEVELOPMENT SITE, CART STREET, CLYDEBANK BY CLYDESIDE REGENERATION LIMITED Submit report by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration seeking determination of the planning application for a national development, the application 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. 15 INTERIM REVIEW OF POLLING DISTRICTS AND 105 – 113 POLLING PLACES 2025 Submit report by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration seeking approval to conduct an interim review of polling districts and polling places within the Council’s area and outlining the timetable and processes for carrying out this review. 16 NOTICE OF MOTIONS (a) Motion by Councillor Gordon Scanlan – Saint Peter the Apostle High School Council congratulates Saint Peter the Apostle High School on their achievement of winning the Scottish Schools boys football shield at Hampden Park on May 8th. The Council notes that the players won a heroic penalty shootout victory following a 93rd minute equaliser. Furthermore the council also recognises the achievements of all of the players, head coach Mark Ferrier and all involved in the school football programme. (b) Motion by Councillor William Rooney – Better Buses for West Dunbartonshire West Dunbartonshire Council notes that Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) has launched a consultation on the draft Strathclyde Regional Bus Strategy. The draft strategy outlines improvements needed for the bus network to better serve existing passengers, attract new passengers, and ensure essential access for everyone who relies on it. SPT is aiming for a ‘cycle of growth’ with a bus network that delivers: Page 5
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· Buses where they are needed, when they are needed · Reliable and quicker bus journeys · Affordable and attractive fares and ticketing · Accessible and safer bus journeys · A trusted and recognisable bus network · A seamless and integrated bus network · A more environmentally sustainable, resilient and adaptable bus network fleet. An affordable and effective bus service is vital for the residents of West Dunbartonshire. · It ensures local residents can access public services like health centres, dentists and hospitals; · It can connect communities and reduce isolation This Council notes that the draft Strathclyde Regional Bus Strategy was recently approved for consultation at SPT’s Strategy and Programmes Committee. Council also notes that once the public consultation is complete, SPT intends to take a final version of the strategy to the SPT committee later in 2025. Given the importance of bus services to local residents in West Dunbartonshire, this Council requests that when the final version of the Strathclyde Regional Bus Strategy becomes available that a report is brought to future council or committee for consideration. (c) Motion by Councillor Jim Bollan – Bandstand at Clydebank Shopping Centre Council notes that Patriotic Alternative and associated groups have used the Bandstand at Clydebank Shopping Centre to display banners, posters, flags, flyers and photos publicising their beliefs. Council agrees to authorise Council officials to remove any such items attached to the Council-owned Bandstand in Clydebank Shopping Centre, that do not have prior written consent from West Dunbartonshire Council as soon as practical. (d) Motion by Councillor Martin Rooney – Call for a Review of Sold Property Block Building Insurance Council notes that a condition of sale of Council housing in West Dunbartonshire included that the owner occupiers were required to take out building insurance arranged by the Council. Page 6
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The previous three year fixed rate contract came to an end this year and as a result of a number of factors, the owner occupiers received a significant increase in their annual Block Insurance bill. Council officers extended the deal as it was considered financially advantageous for owners to do so, giving them a degree of stability over the coming three years. The owner occupier annual bills are based on a number of different elements as follows: (i) Insurance Premium; (ii) Insurance Tax; and (iii) Factoring fees. Historically, the factoring fee makes up around a third of total annual bill and this would still have to be paid by owner occupiers even if the block building insurance arrangements were to end. Council agrees that it is vital that Councillors have the full facts made available to allow them to make an informed decision. Given the above, this Council agrees to carry out a review of the Block Building Insurance arrangements, and a report, including potential options and associated risks, should come to a future Council meeting for consideration. (e) Motion by Councillor Sophie Traynor – Clydebank Women’s Aid Council notes with concern the recent announcement indicating the closure of Clydebank Women’s Aid For over 40 years, Clydebank Women’s Aid have provided specialist support, refuge and advocacy to women, children and young people experiencing domestic abuse. Council praises the work of the service and thanks the staff for their dedication to providing support to victims. Council acknowledges the high rates of domestic abuse within West Dunbartonshire and request that the funding current provided to this organisation by the council is ringfenced and protected to be used to support women and children experiencing domestic abuse within the Clydebank area going forward. (f) Motion by Councillor Michelle McGinty – Hospital Bus This Council is extremely disappointed with the decision to withdraw funding for the vital 340 bus service, that links the Vale of Leven Hospital with the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley. Page 7
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The bus service was put in place when a number of services that had been available at the Vale Hospital were transferred to the RAH in Paisley. At the time and in the face of real concerns from the local community the Health Board recognised that there was no direct transport links and introduced the hospital bus service to ensure that patients, staff and visitors had the means to attend appointment or visit loved ones at the RAH. Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board will now provide their own bus service for staff and patients with appointments only, leaving everyone else without a direct transport link. This means that many local people, will be left with the only option of an expensive journey, involving multiple changes and significantly longer travel times. It is clear that the Health Board has broken its promise to provide a direct transport link from the communities that accessed the Vale of Leven Hospital to access the services at the RAH. Council calls on the Health Board to reconsider its decision and to reinstate the funding and reintroduce the bus service that is vital to our community. The Council requests that the leader of the council writes to NHS greater Glasgow and Clyde outlining our concerns. (g) Motion by Councillor Clare Steel – Recognising Carers Week 2025 West Dunbartonshire Council notes that Carers Week 2025 was observed from Monday 9th to Sunday 15th June this year. Carers Week allows for everyone to acknowledge and celebrate the essential contributions of unpaid carers in West Dunbartonshire and across Scotland. Our unpaid carers, including young carers, provide critical care and support to family members, friends, and neighbours living with illness, disability, mental health conditions, or age-related needs—often at considerable personal, emotional, and financial cost. Council notes that the work of unpaid carers is fundamental to the sustainability of our health and social care systems, with estimates suggesting they save the Scottish Government and public services over £10 billion each year. This Council commends all of the unpaid carers in West Dunbartonshire, for their often unseen and undervalued efforts, which are essential to the wellbeing and dignity of many local residents. Page 8
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The Council also reaffirms its commitment to supporting carers through local services, including the work of Carers of West Dunbartonshire and other community-based organisations that provide vital information, advocacy, respite, and wellbeing support; Furthermore, this Council calls for continued recognition of carers' rights and needs in local and national policy-making, and supports efforts to secure sustainable funding for carer support services. Finally, Council agrees to raise awareness of Carers Week across Council platforms, engaging with local carers' organisations, and expressing our deep gratitude to all unpaid carers across West Dunbartonshire. 17 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, 27 August 2025 at 4.00 p.m. Page 9
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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, 23 April 2025 at 4.02 p.m. Present: Provost Karen Murray Conaghan and Councillors Jim Bollan, 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, Hazel Sorrell, Clare Steel and Sophie Traynor. Attending: Peter Hessett, Chief Executive; Laurence Slavin, Chief Officer – Resources, and Section 95 Officer; Peter Barry, Chief Officer – Housing and Employability; Amanda Graham, Chief Officer – Citizen, Culture and Facilities; Lesley James, Head of Children’s Health, Care and Justice Services (Chief Social Work Officer); Victoria Rogers, Chief Officer – People and Technology; Michael McDougall, Manager of Legal Services (Legal Officer); James Gallacher, Service Manager – ICT; Lauren Crooks, Strategic Communication, Culture and Performance Manager; Michelle Lynn, Asset Manager; Elaine Troup, Economic Development Manager; and Carol-Ann Burns, Senior Democratic Services Officer. Provost Karen Murray Conaghan in the Chair STATEMENT BY CHAIR 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 Having heard Councillor O’Neill, the Council observed a minute of silence as a mark of respect for Pope Francis, who passed away earlier in the week. URGENT ITEM OF BUSINESS MOTION BY COUNCILLOR LAWRENCE O’NEILL – CLYDEBANK FOOTBALL CLUB The Provost advised that she had accepted a request from Councillor O’Neill for an motion concerning Clydebank football club. The Provost advised that this item would be considered at the end of the meeting. ITEM 6 Page 11
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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. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING The Minutes of Meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council held on 26 March 2025 were submitted and approved as a correct record. OPEN FORUM The Council noted that no open forum questions had been submitted by members of the public. 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. After discussion and having heard the Chief Executive and relevant officers in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Council agreed:- (1) to note the update on the Exxon Infrastructure Project; and (2) to note the progress of the Glasgow City Region programme. ADJOURNMENT The Provost adjourned the meeting for a recess. The meeting reconvened at 4.57 p.m. with all those listed in the sederunt present. CLIMATE CHANGE DUTIES – DRAFT STATUTORY GUIDANCE FOR PUBLIC BODIES: CONSULTATION A report was submitted by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration providing an outline of key proposed changes set out in the draft statutory guidance to public bodies’ duties relating to climate change. Page 12
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After discussion and having heard the Economic Development Manager in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Council agreed:- (1) to note the draft statutory guidance for public bodies; and (2) to note that an officer response to the consultation would be submitted on behalf of the Council before the closing date of 23rd May 2025. NOTICE OF MOTIONS (a) Motion by Councillor William Rooney – Clydesdale Harriers 140th Anniversary 4th May 2025 Councillor William Rooney moved:- Council congratulates Clydesdale Harriers on their 140th anniversary. Council recognises the remarkable legacy of Clydesdale Harriers in Scottish athletics. Founded on 4 May 1885, the club was Scotland's first "open" amateur athletics club, welcoming all members of the public. The pioneering spirit of the club is evident in its many firsts: the first to host a two-day event at Dunoon during the Glasgow Fair, and one of the first to establish both a ladies' section and a men's junior section. It also initiated the first annual race for youths under 17 and successfully proposed the Scottish cross-country championship for boys under 15. Council notes that the club boasted notable members such as Jock Semple, who ran in several Boston marathons and represented the USA at the first Pan-American Games in 1951. The club's influence extended beyond its members, contributing to the formation of the Scottish Cross-Country Association and achieving numerous successes in cross country, track, and field. Despite the setbacks of the World Wars, which saw a significant loss of members, the club persevered and rebuilt, forming a ladies' section in 1932 that went on to win Scottish titles. Council understands that from the 1960s to the present, Clydesdale Harriers continued to excel, with athletes representing Scotland in various endurance events and track and field. The 1970s were particularly successful, with the club winning the Maley Trophy and the West District Cross Country Championship multiple times. Council acknowledges that Clydesdale Harriers' legacy is not just in its achievements but in its resilience and dedication to the sport. It remains a symbol of excellence and community spirit in Scottish athletics. Given the above, the Council asks the Provost to organise a civic reception to honour and celebrate the club's achievements over its 140-year history. Page 13
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The motion was unanimously agreed by the Council. (b) Motion by Councillor Lauren Oxley – UK Government Cuts to Social Security Councillor Oxley moved:- Council notes with grave concern the contents of the Labour UK Government’s Spring Statement, which includes £5 billion worth of cuts to social security. This decision will have significant implications for the Scottish Government's budget and further exacerbate the financial hardship faced by residents in our communities. Council condemns these cuts, which will disproportionately affect low-income families, disabled people, and those already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. With inflation continuing to rise and essential household costs soaring, these measures will deepen child poverty and harm the most vulnerable. Council further acknowledges that foodbanks, charities, and frontline support organisations are under immense strain and are dealing with additional challenges, such as Labour’s increase in employer’s National Insurance contributions which is hitting Scotland’s public sector and third sector the hardest. The decision to cut social security will increase reliance on these services and only escalate the challenges they are facing. Therefore, Council: • Calls on the UK Government to urgently reconsider the social security cuts announced in the Spring Statement and instead introduce measures that provide adequate financial support to those most in need. • Officers are requested to prepare a report detailing the anticipated impact of these cuts on West Dunbartonshire residents. • Requests that the Leader of the Council writes to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions expressing our opposition to the cuts and urging an immediate reversal. As an amendment, Councillor Martin Rooney, moved:- Council notes that both the UK Government and the Scottish Government make policy decisions that can impact on Local Government, individuals, families, business, and other organisations delivering services to citizens in West Dunbartonshire. In addition, Council notes that spending commitments made by the UK Parliament can result in Barnet consequentials for the Devolved Administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Page 14
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The consequentials for Scotland from the UK Government resulted in the largest block grant in the history of devolution, totalling an additional £5.2bn for Scotland. • £1.5 billion for day-to-day spending in 2024/25 • £3.4 billion recurring revenue for 2025/26 • £300m of additional recurring revenue in 2025/26 to support the additional costs of employers NICs In addition, the settlement also meant an extra £600m of capital spending for 2025/26. It is of course a matter for the Scottish Parliament to decide its own policy priorities. However, it should be noted that as a result of devolution, the Scottish Government is now responsible for fifteen welfare payments. In addition, it should be noted that after the implementation of the Scotland Act 2016, the following areas of social security are devolved: • Adult Disability Payment (the equivalent of PIP). • Benefits for maternity, funeral and heating expenses. • Disability, industrial injuries and carers’ benefits. • Discretionary Housing Payments. • Discretionary payments and assistance. • Powers to top-up any benefit. In terms of protecting and supporting vulnerable people, the SNP is failing Scots: • 84,000 young people in Scotland are not in work, education, or training. • The SNP has cut employability schemes that help disabled people into work. • 1 in 6 Scots are languishing on an NHS waiting list, unable to get back to work By way of contrast, the UK Labour Government has acted by: • Delivering the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation. • 200,000 of the lowest paid Scottish workers are getting a direct pay rise due to increases in the National Living Wage. • Introducing a Fair Repayment Rate on Universal Credit deductions to help low-income households and to benefit a Scottish family by over £420 a year on average. • Ensuring welfare reform is fair and protects the most vulnerable. In terms of the proposed welfare reforms, these are reductions in estimated projections. It is not a cut as the forecast spending continues to rise. Page 15
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The Labour Government believes in the dignity of secure employment. Everyone who can work should be supported to do so, and those who cannot work must be protected • The UK Government proposals will end the cruel work capability assessment. • In addition, for the first time ever they have introduced the right to try work guarantee, to encourage and support people on benefits back into work. • There will be an above inflation increase in the standard rate of universal credit for all those seeking work, adding up to £775 a year extra by 2029/30 As a country, the UK currently spend £50 billion on disability related benefits but this is projected to rise to about £70 billion by 2030 which is unsustainable. The Labour Government argues that supporting people back to work is good for their wellbeing, it boosts the economy and increases the money our governments have to spend on the public services we all rely on and helps ensure we have a sustainable social security system that’s fit for the future. Furthermore, Labour is supporting those who can work while protecting and continuing to support the most vulnerable. Unfortunately, too many Scots are being held back by broken welfare systems that often fail to protect them. Given the above, all councillors fully understand the concerns of our constituents, their families and anyone that could be affected by the proposals in the UK Government Green Paper: Reforming Benefits and Support to get Britain Working. Therefore, we ask the Leader of the Council to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretary of State for Work & Pensions to highlight our concerns and we call on the UK Government to protect those vulnerable who are unable to work and protect and support those who require benefits to enable them to work. Councillor Scanlan then seconded Councillor Oxley’s motion and Councillor Singh Johal seconded Councillor Martin Rooney’s amendment. On a roll call vote being taken, 10 Members voted for the amendment, namely Councillors, Hennebry, Singh Johal, McBride, McGinty, Millar, O’Neill, Martin Rooney, William Rooney, Sorrell and Steel and 11 Members voted for the motion, namely Provost Murray Conaghan and Councillors Bollan, Docherty, Dickson, Lennie, McColl, McKay, Oxley, Pollock. Scanlan and Traynor. The motion was accordingly declared carried. Page 16
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(c) Motion by Councillor Chris Pollock – Wildfire Awareness Councillor Pollock moved:- Council recognises that recent dry and sunny weather along with irresponsible behaviour has led to significant wildfires in the hills above West Dunbartonshire. Council extends its thanks to our firefighters and emergency service workers who worked tirelessly to bring these fires under control. Climate change is playing a part in increasing incidents of wildfires in the Kilpatrick Hills and across many parts of Scotland. The period where we normally have these fires is now extending from spring into summer. Alongside weather and climate change people are the main cause of fires starting. Unattended flames and campfires, glass bottles, controlled burns gone wrong, deliberate fire setting and careless cigarette disposal are the most common causes. Council asks officers to liaise with schools and the fire service to explore if there is any literature, training or talks that can be delivered to our young people to educate them on the importance of wildfire awareness. Councillor O’Neill asked Councillor Pollock if he would accept the following addendum to his motion:- To extend the request to Forestry and Land Scotland to become involved in the process and to make better use of local resources. Councillor Pollock confirmed his acceptance of the addendum and thereafter the motion with addendum, was then agreed by the Council. (d) Motion by Councillor Clare Steel – Testicular Cancer Awareness Councillor Steel moved:- Council notes that Cahonas Scotland is a charity that helps to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of Testicular Cancer. Research suggests that this the most common cancer in men but it is not talked about enough. Locally, there is a small but dedicated team of two who can provide help and support to those affected. Council also notes that, the month of April will be Testicular Cancer Awareness Month. This Council thanks Cahonas Scotland for all the work that they do and agrees to look at how we could support National Testicular Cancer Awareness month. Page 17
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The motion was agreed by the Council. URGENT ITEM OF BUSINESS MOTION BY COUNCILLOR LAWRENCE O’NEILL – CLYDEBANK FOOTBALL CLUB Councillor O’Neill moved:- Council congratulates Clydebank Football Club on recently winning the West of Scotland Premier Division (Tier 6 of Scottish Football) and securing their place in the Lowland League play-offs to challenge for a place in Tier 5 of Scottish Football. A Football Club, wholly owned by the fans, playing at Holm Park Community Football Academy, which was redeveloped due to capital funding allocated by this Council and has contributed to this remarkable achievement. Council also asks that, funding permitted, that the provost could host a Civic event to mark Clydebank Football Club on their success. The motion was unanimously agreed by the Council. DATE OF NEXT MEETING Members noted that the next ordinary meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council was scheduled to be held on Wednesday, 18 June 2025 at 4pm. The meeting closed at 6.00 p.m. Page 18
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AUDIT COMMITTEE At a Meeting of the Audit Committee held in the Council Chambers, Clydebank Town Hall, 5 Hall Street, Clydebank on Wednesday, 4 September 2024 at 10.00 a.m. Present: Provost Karen Murray Conaghan and Councillors Ian Dickson, John Millar, Martin Rooney; and Sophie Traynor. Attending: Peter Hessett, Chief Executive; Councillor Lawrence O’Neill; Laurence Slavin, Chief Officer – Resources: Amanda Graham, Chief Officer – Citizen, Culture and Facilities; Victoria Rogers, Chief Officer – People and Technology; Gail Macfarlane, Chief Officer – Roads and Neighbourhoods; Julie Slavin, Chief Finance Officer - Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP); Andrew Brown, Education Service Manager; Tom Reid, Audit Director - Forvis Mazars; Caleb Oguche, External Auditor – Forvis Mazars; Fiona Taylor, Head of Health and Community Care; Michelle Lynn, Asset Co-ordinator; Anna Murrary, Risk and Health and Safety Officer; Fiona Taylor, Head of Health and Community Care – HSCP; Drew Cameron, Section Leader (ICT) and Lynn Straker, Committee Officer. Apologies: Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Councillors Fiona Hennebry, Jonathan McColl and Michelle McGinty. Provost Karen Murray Conaghan in the Chair DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST It was noted that there were no declarations of interest in any of the items of business on the agenda. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING The Minutes of Meetings of the Audit Committee held on 12 June 2024 were submitted and approved as a correct record. OPEN FORUM The Committee noted that no open forum questions had been submitted by members of the public. ITEM 7(a) Page 19
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STRATEGIC RISKS 2022-2027: BI-ANNUAL UPDATE REPORT A report was submitted by the Chief Officer – People and Technology providing the bi-annual update on the strategic risks for 2022-27. After discussion and having heard the Risk & Health and Safety Officer in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Committee agreed to note the strategic risks as detailed at Appendix 1 in the report. BEST VALUE THEMATIC REPORT: WORKFORCE INNOVATION A report was submitted by Chief Officer – People and Technology setting out the findings of the external audit analysis of the Council’s approach to workforce innovation. After discussion and having heard the Chief Officer – People & Technology and the Audit Director – Forvis Mazars in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Committee agreed to note the content of the report and the two accepted recommendations. INTERNAL AUDIT PLAN 2023/24 – PROGRESS TO 12 AUGUST 2024 A report was submitted by Chief Officer – Resources advising Members of progress to 12 August 2024 against the Internal Audit Plan for 2023/24. After discussion and having heard the Chief Officer – Resources, the Head of Health and Community Care and the Education Service Manager in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Committee agreed to note the content of this report. FORVIS MAZARS - 2023/24 ANNUAL AUDIT PLAN A report was submitted by Chief Officer – Resources presenting to Members for information the Forvis Mazars Annual Audit Plan for the year ending March 2024. After discussion and having heard the Audit Director – Forvis Mazars, the External Auditor – Forvis Mazars and the Chief Officer – Resources in further detail and in answer to Members questions, the Committee agreed to note the 2023/24 Forvis Mazars Annual Audit Plan. The meeting closed at 10.49 a.m. Page 20
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AUDIT COMMITTEE At a Meeting of the Audit Committee held in the Civic Space, 16 Church Street, Dumbarton on Wednesday, 4 December 2024 at 2.00 p.m. Present: Provost Karen Murray Conaghan and Councillors Ian Dickson, Fiona Hennebry, Martin Rooney, Gordon Scanlan, Claire Steel and Sophie Traynor. Attending: Peter Hessett, Chief Executive; Laurence Slavin, Chief Officer – Resources; Amanda Graham, Chief Officer – Citizen, Culture and Facilities; Andi Priestman, Shared Service Manager – Audit and Fraud and Lynn Straker, Committee Officer. Apologies: Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Victoria Rogers, Chief Officer – People and Technology and Julie Slavin, Chief Finance Officer – Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) and Gail Macfarlane, Chief Officer – Roads and Neighbourhood. Councillor Gordon Scanlan in the Chair DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST It was noted that there were no declarations of interest in any of the items of business on the agenda. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING The Minutes of Meeting of the Audit Committee held on 4 September 2024 were submitted and approved as a correct record. OPEN FORUM The Committee noted that no open forum questions had been submitted by members of the public. 2024/25 INTERNAL AUDIT ANNUAL STRATEGY AND PLAN A report was submitted by the Chief Officer – Resources advising of the planned programme of work for the Internal Audit Section for the year 2024/25. ITEM 7(b) Page 21
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After discussion and having heard the Shared Service Manager – Audit and Fraud in further explanation, the Committee agreed to approve the 2024/25 Audit Plan. INTERNAL AUDIT PLAN 2023/24 – PROGRESS TO 6 NOVEMBER 2024 A report was submitted by Chief Officer – Resources advising Members of progress to 6 November 2024, against the Internal Audit Plan for 2023/24. The report also advises Members of recently issued Internal Audit reports and action plans and of the status of implementation progress relating to action plans from previously issued Internal Audit reports. After discussion and having heard the Shared Service Manager – Audit and Fraud; the Chief Officer – Resources and the Chief Officer – Citizen, Culture and Facilities in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Committee agreed to note the contents of this report. NATIONAL FRAUD INITIATIVE 2022/23 EXERCISE A report was submitted by Chief Officer – Resources informing Members of the Audit Scotland Report “National Fraud Initiative 2022/23” published in August 2024 and to provide an overview of the key messages and recommendations raised in the report and how these issues are being addressed by the Council. After discussion and having heard the Shared Service Manager – Audit and Fraud and the Chief Officer – Resources in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Committee agreed to note the contents of this report and agreed that a further update report is submitted to the September 2025 Audit Committee outlining the Council’s progress with the 2024-2025 exercise. PUBLIC INTEREST DISCLOSURES AND OTHER INTERNAL AUDIT INVESTIGATIONS 27 JANUARY TO 31 OCTOBER 2024 A report was submitted by Chief Officer – Resources advising of the outcome of investigations into allegations and disclosures in line with public interest disclosure and business irregularities policies, received by Internal Audit between 27 January and 31 October 2024. After discussion and having heard the Service Manager – Audit and Fraud and the Chief Officer – Resources in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Committee agreed to note the content of this report. 2023/24 TREASURY MANAGEMENT ANNUAL REPORT A report was submitted by Chief Officer – Resources advising of the operation of the treasury function and its activities in 2023/24 and requesting that the Audit Page 22
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Committee remits the report to the full Council for their approval. After discussion and having heard the Chief Officer – Resources in further explanation, the Committee agreed:- (1) to note the contents of the 2023/24 Annual Treasury Management Report; and (2) to remit the 2023/24 Annual Treasury Management Report to full Council for approval. Note: Provost Karen Murray Conaghan left the meeting during consideration of this item. SCOTTISH PUBLIC SERVICES OMBUDSMAN COMPLAINTS REPORT 2023-24 A report was submitted by Chief Officer – Citizen, Culture and Facilities presenting the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO) report on Complaints Handling by West Dunbartonshire Council for the year 1 April 2023 – 31 March 2024. After discussion and having heard the Chief Officer – Citizen, Culture and Facilities in further explanation and in answer to Members’ questions, the Committee agreed to note the contents of the report and the ongoing commitment at a service and strategic level to monitor complaints and ensure compliance with Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO) timelines. The meeting closed at 3.00 p.m. Page 23
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by the Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration Meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council: 18 June 2025 Subject: Results of Local Government By-election held on 15 May 2025 1. Purpose 1.1 This report provides the Council with information on the result of the Local Government by-election held in the Clydebank Waterfront Ward on 15 May 2025. 2. Recommendation 2.1 The Council is asked to note the result of the by-election held on 15 May as detailed in paragraph 4 of the report below. 3. Background 3.1 A by-election was held in Clydebank Waterfront Ward to elect a councillor to replace the vacancy created by the resignation of Councillor James McElhill. 3.2 The resignation resulted in a number of vacancies and have been filled following the election. 4. Main Issues 4.1 The method used to elect a local Councillor was the Single Transferable Vote (Weighted Inclusive Gregory model) which required the electorate to vote by order of preference. The result of the local by-election was as follows: Candidates Total Votes prior to election or exclusion Eryn Browning, Scottish Greens 83 Kevin Crawford, Scottish National Party (SNP) 1331 Kristopher Duncan, Alba Party for independence, 51 Maureen McGlinchey, Scottish Labour Party 822 Andrew Joseph Muir, Scottish Family Party 25 David Smith, Reform UK 919 Cameron Eoin Stewart, Scottish Liberal Democrats 167 Brian Walker, Scottish Conservative and Unionist 87 ITEM 8 Page 25
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Kevin Crawford, Scottish National Party (SNP) was elected at Stage 7. 5. People Implications 5.1 There are no implications for employees of the Council. 6. Financial and Procurement Implications 6.1 There are no financial or procurements implications. All elected member posts have been included in the budget for 2025/26 which is showing an underspend due to this vacancy. 7. Risk Analysis 7.1 As the by-election has been completed, there is no requirement for a risk analysis. 8. Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) 8.1 There are no equalities impacts arising from the reporting of the by-election results. 9. Consultation 9.1 Officers from finance and legal services have been consulted on the content of this report. 10. Strategic Assessment 10.1 This report has no direct impact on the Council’s strategic priorities. Alan Douglas Chief Officer – Regulatory and Regeneration Date: 16 May 2025 Person to Contact: George Hawthorn, Manager of Democratic and Registration Services, Council Offices, Dumbarton. Telephone No. 01389-737204 or e-mail: george.hawthorn@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Background paper: None Appendix: None Wards Affected: Ward 6 - Clydebank Waterfront Page 26
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Chief Officer (Regulatory and Regeneration) Council: 18 June 2025 Subject: Glasgow City Region City Deal - Update 1. Purpose 1.1 To provide an update on the Exxon Infrastructure Project, and to report on matters being discussed by Glasgow City Region. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that Council: i) Notes the update on the Exxon Infrastructure Project. ii) Notes the progress of the Glasgow City Region programme. 3. Background 3.1 The Glasgow City Region City Deal Infrastructure programme equates to £1.13bn of investment during period 2015-2035. Projects are progressing and have reached various stages of development. 4. Main Issues 4.1 This report provides information on City Region progress and includes the latest position on Exxon site infrastructure project development. Exxon Infrastructure Project 4.2 Since reporting to Council on 23 April, the main construction works have continued to progress well and remain on programme. Quarterly newsletters will be prepared and shared on the Council’s website with April’s edition now available. 4.2 Negotiations are on-going with Network Rail to secure an access request to undertake works on the eastern overbridge and works to the Network Rail Western Underbridge started in late April. Discussion is ongoing regarding Water Management on the site following recent adverse weather. 4.3 The future marketing approach for the site continues to be progressed and a report on this will be brought to a future meeting. . Glasgow City Region - General Update ITEM 10 Page 27
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4.4 A Glasgow City Region Cabinet Meeting was held on 27 May. Items on the agenda included a report on the Assurance, Governance and Programme Management Framework 2025, on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund year-end report, and an Investment Zone Up-date. 4.5 The Cabinet report on UK Shared Prosperity Fund End of Year Report and Forecast Expenditure covered progress over three years to the end of 2024/25. During this time the City Region managed a budget of just under £74m across the eight member authorities. The report noted the overall spend of 99% of the budget by member authorities. The paper also set out the spend forecast for the extended one-year period covering 2025/26, which is a significant reduction from the previous year. The total 2024 / 2025 UKSPF budget allocation was £1.5bn, the financial commitment for the extension year is £900m, equating to a 40% overall reduction. 4.6 The additional year of UK Shared Prosperity funding will continue to focus on the same three themes of Communities and Place, Supporting Local Business and People and Skills and West Dunbartonshire will receive £1,694m. Clarity on the future of UK Shared Prosperity Fund beyond 2025/26 is not expected until the UK Government Spending Review in June 2025. 4.7 The paper on the Glasgow City Region Investment Zone provided an update on the programme and the work of all shortlisted projects. This work includes the Glasgow City Region Intelligence Hub supporting each of the short-listed bidders in the collation of expected economic impact of each proposal. 4.8 As previously reported, the proposed Scottish Marine Technology Park (SMTP) was shortlisted for up to £20m of potential Investment Zone funding. To-date the Malin Group has invested approximately £3.8m in the site. The Malin Group is working through a due diligence process to support the Glasgow City Region Gateway 4 submission which is due at the end of June 2025. Thereafter, all shortlisted projects will begin work on their Full Business Cases for submission and consideration by Glasgow City Region. 4.9 As part of the Investment Zone, Glasgow City Region has the option to retain the uplift in Non-Domestic Rates across up to three sites, the area of which must be less than 600 hectares. Any retained rates from the identified sites would be for redistribution across the City Region to projects that align with the Investment Zone’s agreed focus of advanced manufacturing and precision engineering. This potential additional revenue would be based on any uplift in Non-Domestic Rates from an agreed baseline with Scottish Government. All member authorities were asked to consider nominating suitable sites for consideration by the Glasgow City Region. Due to on-going discussions around potential funding opportunities there were no sites nominated by West Dunbartonshire Council. 5. People Implications 5.1 There are several senior officers involved in the Glasgow City Region wider programme as noted at City Region Update paper at Council on 26 August 2021. Page 28
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6. Financial Implications 6.1 Spend to date on the Exxon Infrastructure Project for financial year 25/26 is £885,290. Overall spend to-date is £12.25M 7. Risk Analysis 7.1 There are several project risks associated with the development at the Exxon project site, and these are contained within the project risk register and updated by the Project Board on a regular basis. The Project Board is made up of senior officers from all key services. 8. Equalities Impact Assessment 8.1 Previously completed. No further Assessment is needed at this stage. 9. Consultation 9.1 Consultation with all key stakeholders is progressing as we continue to work as part of the Glasgow City Region. 10 Strategic Assessment 10.1 At its meeting on 26 October 2022, the Council agreed that one of its main strategic priorities for the Strategic Plan 2022 - 2027 is ‘A Strong local economy and improved employment opportunities’. 10.2 The proposals within this report are specifically designed to deliver on this priority. Alan Douglas Chief Officer: Regulatory and Regeneration Date: 18 June 2025 Person to Contact: Elaine Troup elaine.troup@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendix: None Background Papers: UK Shared Prosperity Fund Report to Housing and Communities Committee 22 August 2022 Glasgow City Region City Deal- Council 13 August 2014. “City Deal Initiative” Clyde Valley Investment Fund- Council 30 April 2014 (Memorandum of Understanding). Clyde Valley Community Planning Partnership – City Deal Initiative – Council 28 August 2013. Wards Affected: All Page 29
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Chief Officer - Resources Council: 18 June 2025 Subject: Financial Update 1. PURPOSE 1.1 To provide an update on the financial challenges facing the Council and the estimated 2026/27 – 2029/30 revenue budget gaps. Note the revenue budget is normally forecast over a five-year window. Due to ongoing work pressures we are still rebuilding the financial forecasting model so for the purposes of this report we have only extended it to four years and are only reporting on the mid-range scenario. The five-year window, and reporting in best case, mid- range and worst-case scenario will be restored for the Finance Update report to be presented to Council in October 2025. 1.2 This is the first financial update since the 2025/26 budget was set on 5 March 2025 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 2026/27-2029/30, particularly the updated estimated mid-range 2025/26 budget gap of £8.274m. 3. BACKGROUND 3.1 On 5 March 2025, the Council agreed a balanced 2025/26 revenue budget, a revised capital budget and revenue estimates for 2026/27-2029/30. That budget report also 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 5 March to agree a balanced 2025/26 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) 5 March 2025 Budget Budget Gap 26/27 £000 27/28 £000 28/29 £000 29/30 £000 Mid-Range Gap Before Council Decisions 16,304 25,786 40,779 49,863 Management Adjustments (898) (898) (898) (898) Saving Options (3,696) (3,696) (3,696) (3,696) Council Tax Increase (4,685) (4,685) (4,685) (4,685) Council Growth Items 2,239 2,239 2,239 2,239 Mid-Range Gap After Council Decisions 9,264 18,746 33,739 42,823 ITEM 11 Page 31
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4. MAIN ISSUES 4.1 Since the budget was agreed on 5 March 2025, 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 5 March 2025 report advised that assumptions in relation to future year Scottish Government funding were: • Best Case - Flat Cash • Mid-Range – Flat Cash • Worst Case - 1.0% reduction. 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. As part of the 2025/26 budget setting report members were advised that while the cash increase for 2025/26 was significant in comparison to previous years it was largely funded through significant increases in revenue to be raised through taxation and increased investment in UK public spending and that it is not considered realistic to assume similar increases in future years. At this stage it is prudent to retain the assumption of a flat cash settlement in the best case and mid-range scenarios and a 1% reduction in the worst-case scenario. This will be kept under close review and may be updated if further information about future funding becomes available. In particular the publication of the Scottish Government’s Medium Term Financial Strategy which has been delayed until later June to allow consideration of the UK Government Spending Review which is expected to be published on 11 June. 4.3 Changes to Base Budget There have been five changes to the Council’s base budget since the 5 March 2025 Budget report to Council. These are set out below. 4.4 Base Budget Adjustment 1 – Service Concession Adjustment (£2.190m Favourable) A proportion of the benefit to the Council of the Service Concession Adjustment first reported to Council on 21 December 2022 was already built into the 2026/27 budget gap however through our budget reconciliation process we have identified a further £2.190m which should be applied to 2026/27 increasing to £4.265m in 2028/29 with a small decrease in 2029/30 to £4.186m. Page 32
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4.5 Base Budget Adjustment 2 – Estimated adjustment to HRA central support allocation costs (£0.250m Adverse) The finance team are performing a comprehensive review of the Central Support Allocation model to ensure all central support costs are appropriately allocated between general fund services and other areas outwith the general fund. The review will be completed by the end of 2025/26 however a high-level estimate of a £0.250m reduction in the allocation to the Housing Revenue Account has been made at the current time. This will be further refined through the review. 4.6 Base Budget Adjustment 3 - Estimate of reduction in capital allocation (£0.580m Adverse) The ongoing review of the Central Support Allocation model referenced at paragraph 4.5 has also identified staff costs which were previously allocated to HRA capital budgets but with staff restructures and changes to service delivery it is no longer appropriate to recognise income to the general fund from the HRA capital budget. The review will be completed by the end of 2025/26 however a high-level estimate of a £0.580m reduction to the general fund income budget has been made at the current time. This will be further refined through the review. 4.7 Base Budget Adjustment 4 – Free School Meal Income (£0.350m Adverse) Historically Revenue Support Grant income was distributed to services. In 2024/25, to increase transparency of reporting in budget control reports and the Council’s financial statements, Revenue Support Grant was removed from services and reported on centrally. This reallocated £13.03m of income from services to the central budget line. A year end reconciliation identified that £0.350m remained within the service but was also included within the centralised amount. A budget adjustment is required to remove this double count. 4.8 Base Budget Adjustment 5 – Alternative Delivery of School Transportation (£0.480m Favourable) Education incurs a material cost for taxi provision for external day placement providers and to transport senior phase pupils from secondaries to college and get pupils to mainstream schools where use of buses is not appropriate. Since the COVID pandemic, a combination of fewer taxis being available and an increase in pupils requiring transportation has resulted in these costs almost doubling over a 5-year period from £0.728m to £1.438m. An exercise has been carried out to identify a more cost-effective way to provide school/college transportation through the procurement of minibuses and employing additional drivers. It is anticipated this will save £0.480m from 2026/27 onwards however this estimate will be refined as the new delivery model is implemented. Cost Pressures 4.9 Generally services work on the basis of having to contain any cost pressures Page 33
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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 one new cost pressure identified since the 5 March 2025 Budget report to Council. 4.10 Cost Pressure 1 – Use of Capital Receipts (£0.500m Adverse) The revenue budget currently assumes £2.800m of capital receipts per annum which can be used to offset principal loan charges. It is not realistic to continue to assume the Council will generate that level of capital receipts each year as there is a finite number of surplus assets for potential disposal. Therefore, there is a need to phase out the reliance on capital receipts to help balance the revenue budget. Based on current projections it is considered manageable to phase this out over a 4–5 year period removing £0.500m each year cumulatively. In any year where capital receipts are greater than budget any over recovery can be transferred to the capital fund. Employee Costs 4.11 The Public Sector Pay Policy, published alongside the Scottish Budget, sets out a multi-year framework of a 9% pay envelope covering 2025/26, 2026/27 and 2027/28. For 2026/27 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, with 4% assumed in the worst-case scenario. 4.12 The 2025/26 pay awards for Scottish Joint Council and Chief Officers have still to be agreed and will impact the budget gap if the proportion the Council needs to fund exceeds the assumptions set out in paragraph 4.11. The Teachers pay award now covers the period August to July and for 2025/26 has already been agreed up to 31 July 2025, however, any increase beyond that date is subject to negotiation. It is noteworthy that the Scottish Government has reached a deal on NHS Agenda for Change pay, offering a 4.25% increase in 2025/26 and 3.75% in 2026/27 with the offer including an inflation guarantee, ensuring the increases are at least 1% above the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate. Union members have voted to accept the offer. Revised Mid-Range Estimated Budget Gap 4.13 Exhibit 2 sets out the revised cumulative estimated budget gap in the mid- range for 2026/27 to 2029/30. Exhibit 2 illustrates that, in the mid-range scenario the Council are faced with a budget gap of £8.274m in 2025/26 rising cumulatively to £41.337m in 2029/30. Exhibit 2 – Revised Mid-Range Estimated Budget Gaps (Cumulative) Para Ref 2026/27 £000 2027/28 £000 2028/29 £000 2029/30 £000 Budget Gap 5 March 3.1 9,264 18,746 33,739 42,823 Service Concession 4.4 (2,190) (2,973) (4,265) (4,186) HRA Central Support 4.5 250 250 250 250 Capital Allocation 4.6 580 580 580 580 Page 34
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Free School Meal Income 4.7 350 350 350 350 School Transport 4.8 (480) (480) (480) (480) Use of Capital Receipts 4.10 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 Revised Budget Gap 8,274 17,473 31,674 41,337 2026/27 Budget Process 4.14 Given the scale of the financial challenge facing the Council in 2026/27 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 budget in March 2026. 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. Other Issues 4.15 Health and Social Care Partnership Requisition The Council, at the budget meeting on 5 March 2025, agreed an HSCP requisition of £93.442m. 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. 4.16 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 2026. However, by means of illustration Exhibit 3 sets out the impact that increases of between 5% and 15% would have on the budget gap and on the weekly bill for a Band D taxpayer (assuming they are liable for the full Council Tax charge). Exhibit 3: Impact of Council Tax Increases on Revenue and Band D Bill CT Increase 5% 10% 15% Band D Weekly Bill Increase (£) 1.50 3.00 4.50 Net Revenue Benefit (£000) 2,270 4,540 6,810 4.17 Fees and Charges In 2025/26 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 £0.089m in revenue. 5. PEOPLE IMPLICATIONS 5.1 None directly from this report but there is a strong link between HR and budgets. Page 35
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6. FINANCIAL AND PROCUREMENT IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Sets out the estimated revenue budget gaps in 2026/27 to 2029/30. There are no direct procurement implications arising from this report. 7. RISK ANALYSIS 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: 30 May 2025 Person to Contact: Laurence Slavin, Chief Officer - Resources E-mail: laurence.slavin@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Background Papers Budget Report to Council - 5 March 2025 Page 36
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Chief Officer - Resources Council: 18 June 2025 Subject: 2023/24 Audited Financial Statements and 2023/24 Annual Audit Report 1. PURPOSE 1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide Members with the opportunity to scrutinise and approve the 2023/24 Audited Annual Accounts for the Charitable Trust Funds administered by the Council for the year ending 31 March 2024. 1.2 The report also provides Members with an update on the accompanying 2023/24 Annual Audit Report. 2. RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 Members are requested to: a. Approve the information provided within the Audited Annual Accounts 2023/2024 – Appendix 1 to this report. b. Consider the Annual Audit Report – Appendix 2 to this report. 3. BACKGROUND 3.1 The Trust Fund draft unaudited 2023/24 Annual Accounts were passed to the Accounts Commission on the 01 July 2024. 3.2 As the external auditor of the Council, it is Forvis Mazar’s responsibility to undertake their audit work in accordance with International Standards on Auditing, the principles contained in the Code of Audit Practice issued by Audit Scotland in June 2021 and the ethical standards issued by the Auditing Practices Board. 4. MAIN ISSUES 4.1 The audit of the accounts for 2023/24 is substantially complete. Page 11 of the Accounts details the Statement of Balances and highlights an increase in the balances held from £0.258m as at 31 March 2023 to £0.268m as at 31 March 2024. 4.2 It is disappointing to note the delay in the audit of the Trust Fund Accounts meant we were unable to meet out obligations to submit the Audited accounts to OSCR by 31 December 2024. There are no material consequences to missing this deadline. ITEM 13 Page 37
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4.3 The findings of the audit of West Dunbartonshire Charitable Trusts are contained within the annual audit report (Appendix 2). The Audit Opinion is detailed on page 5 of the report which advises that Forvis Mazars expect to issue an unqualified opinion on the Annual Accounts. The letter of representation (ISA 580) is appended to the report (Appendix A) which Councillor Rooney is required to sign and submit to Forvis Mazars following the Council meeting. 5. PEOPLE IMPLICATIONS 5.1 There are no people implications in relation to this report. 6. FINANCIAL AND PROCUREMENT IMPLICATIONS 6.1 There are no financial and procurement implications in relation to this report. 7. RISK ANALYSIS 7.1 No risk analysis was required. 8. EQUALITIES IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) 8.1 No equalities impact was required in relation to the production of this report. 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 The report is in relation to a statutory function. As such, it does not directly affect any of the strategic priorities No equalities impact Laurence Slavin Treasurer Date: 18 June 2025 Person(s) to Contact: Carol Alderson, Finance Manager West Dunbartonshire Council Email:carol.alderson@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Appendices 1. Audited Annual Accounts 2023/24 – Charitable Trust Funds 2. Draft 2023/24 Annual Audit report Page 38
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE TRUST FUNDS DRAFT ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 APPENDIX 1 Page 39
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 2 Contents Pages Contents 2 Trustees’ Annual Report 3 - 6 Independent Auditor’s Report 7 - 9 Statement of Receipts and Payments 10 Statement of Balances 11 Notes to the financial statements 12 -13 Page 40
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 3 Trustees’ Annual Report Introduction The Trustees present the annual report together with the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2024. Administration Information West Dunbartonshire Council (the Council) is sole Trustee for all Trust Funds with the exception of Dunbartonshire Educational Trust Scheme 1962 and McAuley Prize for Mathematics. The table below identifies the Trustees for 2023/24. Trust Funds Charity Number Trustees Local Authority Contact Address Alexander Cameron Bequest SC025070 Provost Douglas McAllister Councillor Daniel Lennie Councillor June McKay Councillor Lawrence O’Neill Councillor Clare Steel Councillor Diane Docherty Councillor Jim McElhill Councillor Lauren Oxley Councillor Gordon Scanlan Councillor Sophie Traynor West Dunbartonshire Council West Dunbartonshire Council, Church Street, Dumbarton, G82 1QL UIE Award SC025070 Provost Douglas McAllister Laura Mason (Chief Officer – Education) Laurence Slavin (Chief Officer – Resources) Liz Connolly (Principal) West Dunbartonshire Council West Dunbartonshire Council West Dunbartonshire Council West College Scotland West Dunbartonshire Council, Church Street, Dumbarton, G82 1QL Dunbartonshire Education Trust SC025070 Councillor Clare Steel Councillor John Millar Councillor Hazel Sorrell Councillor James McPhilemy Councillor Gordon Currie Councillor Lynda Williamson Councillor Callum McNally Councillor Math Campbell- Sturgess West Dunbartonshire Council West Dunbartonshire Council West Dunbartonshire Council North Lanarkshire Council North Lanarkshire Council East Dunbartonshire Council East Dunbartonshire Council Argyll and Bute Council West Dunbartonshire Council, Church Street, Dumbarton, G82 1QL McAuley Prize for Mathematics SC025070 Page 41
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 4 Objectives and 2023/24 Activity All trusts are advertised on the Council’s website and details have been passed to West Dunbartonshire Community and Volunteering Service (WDCVS) to publicise them. The objectives and activities of each of the Trusts are detailed below: Charity Number Trust Fund Objective 2023/24 Activity SC018701 Dr A K Glen Fund The benefit of the people of Dumbarton, to assist and relieve those in need by reason of age. No awards. Fund is now closed. SC025070 Alexander Cameron Bequest The benefit of the people of Clydebank to assist those in need by reason of age, ill health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage. One grant was awarded during 2023/24 as detailed within note 3. SC025070 UIE Award For students studying apprenticeships or training in industry. No awards but work to review and modernise the Trust’s governance arrangements to encourage funding applications in the future continues. SC025070 Dunbartonshire Educational Trust Scheme 1962 Awards educational prizes and bursaries. No awards for either. Trustees continue to seek clarification as to amendments to the governance arrangements. As these Trusts are governed by statute, discussions are ongoing between the Council (as Administrator) and Scottish Ministers and Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) regarding these arrangements. SC025070 McAuley Prize for Mathematics Provides prizes for those studying maths and computing Structure and Governance West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds are OSCR registered. The governance arrangements are under the control of the Council which appoints trustees as required. The current list of trustees are shown within the table on page 3. Following a review of the governance documents, it was agreed at Council on 31 August 2016 that the Alexander Cameron Bequest Trust Fund noted below would be delegated to the Alexander Cameron Committee. Page 42
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 5 The trustees have overall responsibility for ensuring there are appropriate systems of control, financial and otherwise. They are also responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose, with reasonable accuracy, the financial position of the Trusts and enable them to ensure Financial Statements comply with Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and are therefore responsible for taking reasonable steps to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities and also provide reasonable assurances that: • The trusts are operating efficiently and effectively. • Assets are safeguarded against unauthorised use and disposition. • Proper records are maintained and financial information used by the charities is reliable. • The trusts comply with relevant laws and regulations. The systems of internal controls are designed to provide reasonable, but not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss. The systems of internal control follow those of the Council and, as such, much of this is delegated to the Council’s Chief Officer - Resources. The Council continually seeks to improve the effectiveness of its systems of internal control so that any irregularities are either prevented or quickly detected. The systems of internal control are based on a framework of regular management information, financial regulations, financial and administrative procedures (including segregation of duties), management supervision and a system of delegation and accountability. The Financial Statements and Trustees Report are prepared by the Council’s Finance Service. The appointed external auditors are Forvis Mazars. The Council has agreed to meet the cost of this audit and not pass this on to the Trusts. This is to provide additional financial support to the Trusts, ensuring that core funds are not eroded, and objectives can continue to be achieved. The Trustees only meet as and when required during the year and will ensure that the required accounting arrangements are adhered to. Management of Funds and Investment Policy Decisions regarding the management of the Trusts are made by the Trustees. Trustees rely on the expertise of Council staff to manage the investments to ensure the maximum return at the least risk to the Trusts. In this way, the income stream for the future benefit of the Trusts is protected. Funds available are invested each year with interest earned. Investments are made both internally and externally, with the majority invested in the Council’s Loans Fund and externally managed by the Council. Performance (Investments) Income for West Dunbartonshire Trusts comes from investment returns. All Trusts (with the exception of those investments noted below) received income on their reserves held based upon the average interest rate used for internal investments within the Council’s loans fund which was 4.569%. Page 43
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 6 Following a Trustee decision in 2019/20, Alexander Cameron had an element of their funds in a fixed interest agreement. Trustees met and agreed in February 2022 to continue this investment for a further fixed term of 2 years (the revised interest rate was 2.04%) and the overall impact of this was £2,957 of interest gained during 2023/24. Dunbartonshire Educational Trust Scheme 1962 continues to receive income from external investments i.e. 3% Clydeport and 4% Clydeport Consolidated Stock. These investments are managed by the Council and achieved investment income of £5 in 2023/24 (£5 in 2022/23). Financial Review The total balance of the Trusts as at 31 March 2024 (including stocks) is £268,441. On 8 July 2016 Clydeport Operations Ltd delisted 3% and 4% stocks from the London Stock Exchange. These are stocks held by Dumbarton Educational Trust. Until further information is available it has been assumed that the balance of this stock has remained the same as the previous year (£218). The Trusts held cash and bank balances at 31 March 2024 of £170,717. Reserves are held by the Council on behalf of the Trusts and revenue income, generated from investment interest that has not been disbursed at 31 March every year, is invested in line with the investment policy outlined above. Declaration The unaudited annual accounts were issued on 30 June 2024 and the annual accounts were authorised for issue on 18 June 2025 by: Councillor Martin Rooney West Dunbartonshire Council 18 June 2025 Page 44
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 7 Independent auditor’s report to the trustees of West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds and the Accounts Commission Report on the audit of the financial statements Opinion on the financial statements We certify that we have audited the financial statements in the statement of accounts of West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds (“the Charities) for the year ended 31 March 2024 under Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005. The financial statements comprise the Statement of Receipts and Payments Account, the Statement of Balances and notes to the financial statements, including material accounting policy information. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and a receipts and payments basis. In our opinion the accompanying financial statements: • properly present the receipts and payments of the Charities for the year ended 31 March 2024 and their statement of balances at that date; and • have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, and regulations 9(1), (2) and (3) of The Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)), as required by the Code of Audit Practice approved by the Accounts Commission for Scotland. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Charities in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK including the Financial Reporting Council’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Responsibilities of the trustees for the financial statements The trustees are responsible for the preparation of financial statements that give a true and fair view in accordance with the financial reporting framework, and for such internal control as the trustees determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities outlined above to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. Procedures include: • using our understanding of the local government sector and charity sector to identify that the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and The Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 are significant in the context of the Charities; Page 45
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 8 • inquiring of the Trustees as to other laws or regulations that may be expected to have a fundamental effect on the operations of the Charities; • inquiring of the Trustees concerning the Charities’ policies and procedures regarding compliance with the applicable legal and regulatory framework; • discussions among our audit team on the susceptibility of the financial statements to material misstatement, including how fraud might occur; and • considering whether the audit team collectively has the appropriate competence and capabilities to identify or recognise non-compliance with laws and regulations. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is affected by the inherent difficulty in detecting irregularities, the effectiveness of the Charities’ controls, and the nature, timing and extent of the audit procedures performed. Irregularities that result from fraud are inherently more difficult to detect than irregularities that result from error as fraud may involve collusion, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. The capability of the audit to detect fraud and other irregularities depends on factors such as the skilfulness of the perpetrator, the frequency and extent of manipulation, the degree of collusion involved, the relative size of individual amounts manipulated, and the seniority of those individuals involved. A further description of the auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report. Reporting on other requirements Other information The trustees are responsible for the other information in the statement of accounts. The other information comprises the Trustees’ Annual Report. Our responsibility is to read all the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements, or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon except on the Trustees’ Annual Report to the extent explicitly stated in the following opinion prescribed by the Accounts Commission. Opinions prescribed by the Accounts Commission on the Trustees’ Annual Report In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit, the information given in the Trustees' Annual Report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements and that report has been prepared in accordance with The Charity Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Matters on which we are required to report by exception We are required by The Charity Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 to report to you if, in our opinion: • proper accounting records have not been kept; or • the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or • we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. We have nothing to report in respect of these matters. Page 46
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 9 Use of our report This report is made solely to the parties to whom it is addressed in accordance with Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and for no other purpose. In accordance with paragraph 108 of the Code of Audit Practice, we do not undertake to have responsibilities to members or officers, in their individual capacities, or to third parties. Tom Reid, Director For and on behalf of Forvis Mazars LLP 100 Queen Street Glasgow G1 3DN 18 June 2025 Page 47
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 10 Statement of Receipts and Payments Account Receipts 2022/22 Payments 2022/23 (Surplus) /Deficit 2022/23 Receipts 2023/24 Payments 2023/24 (Surplus) /Deficit 2023/24 £ £ £ £ £ £ (1,796) 0 (1,796) Dunbartonshire Educational Trust Scheme 1962 (4,216) 0 (4,216) (435) 0 (435) McAuley Prize for Mathematics (1,020) 0 (1,020) (3,436) 6,200 2,764 Alexander Cameron Bequest (10,272) 300 (9,972) 0 4,947 4,947 Dr AK Glen 0 0 0 (491) 0 (491) UIE Award (1,154) 0 (1,154) (6,158) 11,147 4,989 Total (16,662) 300 (16,362) Page 48
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 11 Statement of Balances as at 31 March 2024 Opening Balance 2022/23 (Surplus) /Deficit 2022/23 Closing Balance 2022/23 Note Other Assets Opening Balance 2023/24 (Surplus) /Deficit 2023/24 Closing Balance 2023/24 £ £ £ £ £ £ (90,494) (1,796) (92,290) Dunbartonshire Educational Trust Scheme 1962 (92,290) (4,216) (96,506) (21,898) (435) (22,333) McAuley Prize for Mathematics (22,333) (1,020) (23,353) (20,000) 5,515 (14,485) Alexander Cameron Bequest (14,485) (9,972) (24,457) (4,947) 4,947 0 Dr AK Glen 0 0 0 (24,757) (491) (25,248) UIE Award (25,248) (1,154) (26,402) (162,096) 7,740 (154,356) Total Other Assets (154,356) (16,362) (170,718) Investment (218) 0 (218) 5 Dunbartonshire Educational Trust Scheme 1962 (218) 0 (218) (100,269) (2,751) (103,020) 5 Alexander Cameron Bequest (103,020) 5,515 (97,505) (100,487) (2,751) (103,238) Total Investment (103,238) 5,515 (97,723) (90,712) (1,796) (92,508) Dunbartonshire Educational Trust Scheme 1962 (92,508) (4,216) (96,724) (21,898) (435) (22,333) McAuley Prize for Mathematics (22,333) (1,020) (23,353) (120,269) 2,764 (117,505) Alexander Cameron Bequest (117,505) (4,457) (121,962) (4,947) 4,947 0 Dr AK Glen 0 0 0 (24,757) (491) (25,248) UIE Award (25,248) (1,154) (26,402) (262,583) 4,989 (257,594) Overall Total (257,594) (10,847) (268,441) All funds are unrestricted which means they may be used for any purpose relevant to the Trust Fund. The unaudited annual accounts were issued on 30 June 2024 and the annual accounts were authorised for issue on 18 June 2025 by: Signed on behalf of the Trustees by:- Councillor Martin Rooney West Dunbartonshire Council 18 June 2025 Page 49
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 12 Notes to the Financial Statements Note 1 - Basis of Accounting The Financial Statements have been prepared on a receipts and payments basis and in accordance with the Charities & Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Note 2 – Trustee Remuneration, Expenses and Related Party Transactions • No remuneration or expenses were paid to the Trustees or any connected persons during the 2023/24. • The Trusts received interest of £9,347 from the Council at 31 March 2024, and all transactions incoming and outgoing are made via the Council’s bank accounts. • The Council has not charged the Trusts any fees for legal, financial or administrative services provided during the year. Note 3 – Grants A single grant was awarded during 2023/24 by Alexander Cameron Bequest of £300 to the Faifley Art Group. Note 4 – Other Assets During the year the Trust’s balances were held by the Council, which manages the administration of the funds on behalf of the Trustees. No costs were incurred by the Trusts for this administration. The Council also acts as the banker for the Trusts and, as detailed above, all transactions incoming and outgoing are made via the Council’s accounts. The balances are repayable on demand. Interest is paid on balances. Note 5 – Investment Dunbartonshire Educational Trust - The investment valuation of £218 (shown in the table below) is the market value as at 31 March 2016, as valued by the Council. Notification was received that the stocks were delisted in July 2016. There has been no further update on this and therefore the assumption is that the market price remains the same. Purchase Price as at 31 March 2023 Market Price as at 31 March 2023 Investment Purchase Price as at 31 March 2024 Market Price as at 31 March 2024 £ £ £ £ (289) (199) 4% Clydeport authority (289) (199) (35) (19) 3% Clydeport Authority (35) (19) (324) (218) Total (324) (218) Page 50
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Dr A K Glen and West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds Financial Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024 13 Alexander Cameron – Following a decision on 23 February 2022, £20,000 was invested on a short term variable basis, with the remainder (£100,269) invested on a longer term fixed interest rate basis with the Council for two years at 2.04%. The opening value of the investment, including interest was £103,020. During 2023/24 a sum of £5,515 was withdrawn from the investment in order to replenish the fund’s cash and bank balance, thus reducing the investment to £97,505. Note 6 – Audit Fee The audit fee for the year of £10,000 (£6,500 2022/23) was absorbed by the Council. Page 51
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Annual Audit Report West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds – year ended 31 March 2024 May 2025 APPENDIX 2 Page 52
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The Trustees West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds 16 Church Street Dumbarton G82 1QL 21 May 2025 Forvis Mazars 100 Queen Street Glasgow G1 3DN Dear Trustees, Annual Audit Report – Year ended 31 March 2024 We are pleased to present our Annual Audit Report for the year ended 31 March 2024. The purpose of this document is to summarise our audit conclusions and findings. The scope of our work, including identified significant audit risks, and other key judgement areas, was outlined in our Annual Audit Plan, which we presented to the Council’s Audit Committee on 4 September 2024. We have reviewed our Annual Audit Plan and concluded that the significant audit risks and other key judgement areas set out in that report remain appropriate. We would like to express our thanks for the assistance of your team during our audit. If you would like to discuss any matters in more detail then please do not hesitate to contact me on 07816 354 994 Yours faithfully Tom Reid (Auditor Director) Forvis Mazars LLP Annual Audit Report letter Forvis Mazars LLP – 100 Queen Street- Glasgow- G1 3DN Tel: 0141 227 2400 – www.forvismazars.com/uk Forvis Mazars LLP is the UK firm of Forvis Mazars Global, a leading global professional services network. Forvis Mazars LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC308299 and with its registered office at 30 Old Bailey, London, EC4M 7AU. Registered to carry on audit work in the UK by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. Details about our audit registration can be viewed at www.auditregister.org.uk under reference number C001139861. VAT number: GB 839 8356 73Page 53
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3 Contents 01 Executive summary 02 Status of the audit 03 Audit approach 04 Significant findings 05 Internal control conclusions 06 Summary of misstatements A Appendix A: Draft management representation letter B Appendix B: Draft audit report C Appendix C: Confirmation of our independence D Appendix D: Other communications Our reports are prepared in accordance with Terms of Appointment Letter from Audit Scotland dated 18 May 2022 through which the Accounts Commission has appointed us as external auditor of West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds (the Charitable Trust) for financial years 2022/23 to 2026/27. We undertake our audit in accordance with Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as amended; and our responsibilities as set out within Audit Scotland’s Code of Audit Practice 2021. Reports and letters prepared by appointed auditors and addressed to the Charitable Trust are prepared for the sole use of the Charitable Trust and made available to Audit Scotland and the Accounts Commission, the Controller of Audit. We take no responsibility to any member or officer in their individual capacity or to any other third party. Page 54
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01Executive Summary Page 55
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5 Executive summary Audit conclusions and significant findings The detailed scope of our work as your appointed auditor for 2023/24 is set out in Audit Scotland’s Code of Audit Practice 2021. Our responsibilities and powers are derived from Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and, as outlined in our Annual Audit Plan, our audit has been conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) and means we focus on audit risks that we have assessed as resulting in a higher risk of material misstatement. In section 4 of this report we have set out our conclusions and significant findings from our audit. This section includes our conclusions on the audit risks and areas of management judgement in our Annual Audit Plan, which include: • Management override of controls. Misstatements and internal control recommendations Section 5 sets out internal control recommendations and section 6 sets out audit misstatements. There are no unadjusted misstatements. Status and audit opinion We have substantially completed our audit in respect of the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024. At the time of preparing this report, matters remaining outstanding as outlined in section 2. We will provide an update to you in relation to the matters outstanding through issuance of our final Annual Audit Report. Subject to the satisfactory conclusion of the remaining audit work, we have the following conclusions: Audit opinion We have issued an unqualified opinion, without modification, on the financial statements. Our audit opinion is included in the draft auditor’s report in Appendix B. Matters on which we report by exception We are required by the Accounts Commission to report to you if, during the course of our audit, we have found that adequate accounting records have not been kept; the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. We have nothing to report in respect of these matters. Page 56
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6 Executive summary (continued) Conclusions from our audit testing and audit opinion (continued) Other information We are required to report on whether the other information (comprising the Trustees’ Annual Report), is materially inconsistent with the financial statements; is materially inconsistent with our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit; or is materially misstated. No inconsistencies have been identified and we have issued an unmodified opinion in this respect. Wider powers Section 101 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 requires us to give any person interested, the opportunity to question us about the accounting records of the Trust Funds and to consider any objection made to the accounts. We confirm that no such correspondence from electors has been received. Page 57
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02Status of the audit Page 58
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8 Status of our audit Our audit work is substantially complete and, except for the matters set out below, there are currently no matters of which we are aware that would require modification of our audit opinion, subject to the satisfactory resolution of the outstanding matters set out below. Area of work Audit quality control and completion procedures: Our audit work is undergoing final stages of review by the Engagement Director and further quality and compliance checks. In addition, there are residual procedures to complete, including updating post balance sheet event considerations to the point of issuing the opinion and obtaining final management representations. Medium Area of work Annual report and financial statements and letter of representation: We will complete our final review of the annual report and financial statements upon receipt of the signed version of the financial statements and letter of representation. Low Status High - Likely to result in a material adjustment or a significant change to disclosures in the financial statements. Medium - Potential to result in a material adjustment or a significant change to disclosures in the financial statements. Low - Not considered likely to result in a material adjustment or a change to disclosures in the financial statements. Page 59
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03Audit Approach Page 60
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10 Audit Approach Changes to our audit approach There have been no changes to the audit approach we communicated in our Annual Audit Plan, issued on 4 September 2024. Materiality Our provisional materiality at the planning stage of the audit was set at £5,369 using a benchmark of 2% of net assets. Our Performance materiality was set at £3,758. There have been no changes to the materiality levels we communicated in the Annual Audit Plan. We have provided our consideration of our independence as part of the Charitable Trust engagement in Appendix C. Page 61
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04Significant findings Page 62
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12 Significant findings Significant findings, including key areas of management judgement The significant findings from our audit include: • our audit conclusions regarding significant risks and key areas of management judgement outlined in the Annual Audit Plan; • our comments in respect of the accounting policies and disclosures that you have adopted in the financial statements. On page 14 we have concluded whether the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the financial reporting framework and commented on any significant accounting policy changes that have been made during the year; • any further significant matters discussed with management; and • any significant difficulties we experienced during the audit. Page 63
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13 Significant findings (continued) Management override of controls ] Description of the risk This is a mandatory significant risk on all audits due to the unpredictable way in which such override could occur. Management at various levels within an organisation are in a unique position to perpetrate fraud because of their ability to manipulate accounting records and prepare fraudulent financial statements by overriding controls that otherwise appear to be operating effectively. Due to the unpredictable way in which such override could occur there is a risk of material misstatement due to fraud on all audits. How we addressed this risk We addressed this risk through performing audit procedures over journals and other adjustments recorded in the general ledger in preparing the financial statements. Audit conclusion Our work has provided the assurance we sought and there are no material issues to bring to your attention. Page 64
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14 Significant findings (continued) Qualitative aspects of the Trust Funds’ accounting practices We have reviewed the Trust Funds’ accounting policies and disclosures and concluded they comply with the with the requirements of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, and regulations 9(1), (2) and (3) of The Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006, appropriately tailored to the Trust Funds’ circumstances. The Council provided unaudited accounts for the Trust Funds on 27 June 2024 and these were of a good quality. Significant matters discussed with management During our audit we did not identify any significant matters to discuss with management. Significant difficulties during the audit During the course of the audit we did not encounter any significant difficulties and we have had the full co-operation of management. Page 65
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05Internal control conclusions Page 66
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16 Internal control conclusions Overview of engagement As part of our audit, we obtained an understanding of Trust Funds’ internal control environment and control activities relevant to the preparation of the financial statements, which was sufficient to plan our audit and determine the nature, timing, and extent of our audit procedures. Although our audit was not designed to express an opinion on the effectiveness of Trust Funds’ internal controls, we are required to communicate to the trustees any significant deficiencies in internal controls that we identified in during our audit. Deficiencies in internal control A deficiency in internal control exists if: • A control is designed, implemented, or operated in such a way that it is unable to prevent, detect, and/ or correct potential misstatements in the financial statements; or • A necessary control to prevent, detect, and/ or correct misstatements in the financial statements on a timely basis is missing The purpose of our audit was to express an opinion on the financial statements. As part of our audit, we have considered the Trust Funds’ internal controls relevant to the preparation of the financial statements to design audit procedures to allow us to express an opinion on the financial statements, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust Funds’ internal controls or to identify any significant deficiencies in their design or operation. The matters reported in this section of our report are limited to those deficiencies and other control recommendations that we have identified during our normal audit procedures and which we consider to be of sufficient importance to merit being reported. If we had performed more extensive procedures on internal control, we might have identified more deficiencies to report or concluded that some of the reported deficiencies need not in fact have been reported. Our comments in this section should not be regarded as a comprehensive record of all deficiencies that may exist or improvements that could be made. We have not identified any deficiencies in Charitable Trust’s internal controls as at the date of this report. We identified control deficiencies in the Council’s IT general controls within its financial ledger system, which is also used by the Trust Funds. We have not reported them here as they were not significant deficiencies. We will include full details in the Council’s Annual Audit Report. Significant deficiencies in internal control A significant deficiency in internal control is one which, in our professional judgement, has the potential for financial loss, damage to reputation, or a loss of information which may have implications on the achievement of business strategic objectives. Our view is that observations categorised as a significant deficiency is of sufficient importance to merit the attention of the trustees. We have not identified any significant deficiencies in the Trust Fund’s internal controls as at the date of this report. Other observations We also record our observations on the Trust Fund’s internal controls where, in our professional judgement, there is a need to strengthen internal control or enhance business efficiency that do not constitute significant deficiencies in internal control but which we view as being important for consideration by management. Page 67
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06Summary of misstatements Page 68
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18 Summary of misstatements Adjusted and unadjusted misstatements We identified no misstatements, adjusted or unadjusted, above our reporting threshold as at the date of this report. Our overall materiality, performance materiality, and clearly trivial (reporting) threshold were reported in our Annual Audit Plan, issued on 4 September 2024. Any subsequent changes to those figures are set out in the section 3 of this report. Disclosure misstatements We have not identified any disclosure misstatements as at the date of this report. However there were minor adjustments to the annual report and financial statements for other disclosures, page numbers, consistency and presentational matters. Page 69
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Appendices A: Draft management representation letter B: Draft audit report C: Confirmation of our independence D: Other communications Page 70
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20 Appendix A: Draft management representation letter Tom Reid Forvis Mazars 100 Queen Street Glasgow G1 3DN XX June 2025 Dear Tom West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds - Audit for Year Ended 31 March 2024 This representation letter is provided in connection with your audit of the financial statements of West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds (the Charities) for the year ended 31 March 2024 for the purpose of expressing an opinion as to whether the financial statements give a true and fair view in accordance with the Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005. I confirm that the following representations are made on the basis of enquiries of management and staff with relevant knowledge and experience (and, where appropriate, inspection of supporting documentation) sufficient to satisfy myself that I can properly make each of the following representations to you. My responsibility for the financial statements and accounting information I believe that I have fulfilled my responsibilities for the true and fair presentation and preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005. My responsibility to provide and disclose relevant information I have provided you with: • access to all information of which I am aware that is relevant to the preparation of the financial statements such as records, documentation and other material; • additional information that you have requested from us for the purpose of the audit; and • unrestricted access to individuals within the Charities you determined it was necessary to contact in order to obtain audit evidence. Page 71
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21 Appendix A: Draft management representation letter (continued) I confirm that I have taken all the necessary steps to make me aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that you, as auditors, are aware of this information. As far as I am aware there is no relevant audit information of which you, as auditors, are unaware. Accounting records I confirm that all transactions that have a material effect on the financial statements have been recorded in the accounting records and are reflected in the financial statements. All other records and related information, including minutes of all trustee meetings, have been made available to you. Accounting policies I confirm that I have reviewed the accounting policies applied during the year in accordance with International Accounting Standard 8 and consider these policies to faithfully represent the effects of transactions, other events or conditions on the Charities’ financial position and financial performance. Contingencies There are no material contingent losses including pending or potential litigation that should be accrued where: • information presently available indicates that it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability had been incurred at the balance sheet date; and • the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. There are no material contingent losses that should be disclosed where, although either or both the conditions specified above are not met, there is a reasonable possibility that a loss, or a loss greater than that accrued, may have been incurred at the balance sheet date. There are no contingent gains which should be disclosed. All material matters, including unasserted claims, that may result in litigation against the Charities have been brought to your attention. All known actual or possible litigation and claims whose effects should be considered when preparing the financial statements have been disclosed to you and accounted for and disclosed in accordance with the Code, as amended by the Code and applicable law Page 72
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22 Appendix A: Draft management representation letter (continued) Laws and regulations I confirm that I have disclosed to you all those events of which I am aware which involve known or suspected non-compliance with laws and regulations, together with the actual or contingent consequences which may arise therefrom. The Charities have complied with all aspects of contractual agreements that would have a material effect on the accounts in the event of non-compliance. Fraud and error I acknowledge my responsibility for the design, implementation and maintenance of internal control to prevent and detect fraud and error and I believe I have appropriately fulfilled those responsibilities. I have disclosed to you: • all the results of my assessment of the risk that the financial statements may be materially misstated as a result of fraud; • all knowledge of fraud or suspected fraud affecting the Charities involving: o trustees; o employees who have significant roles in internal control; and o others where fraud could have a material effect on the financial statements. I have disclosed to you all information in relation to any allegations of fraud, or suspected fraud, affecting the Charities’ financial statements communicated by employees, former employees, analysts, regulators or others. Related party transactions I confirm that all related party relationships, transactions and balances, have been appropriately accounted for and disclosed in accordance with the requirements of Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005. I have disclosed to you the identity of the Charities’ related parties and all related party relationships and transactions of which I am aware. Impairment review To the best of my knowledge, there is nothing to indicate that there is a permanent reduction in the recoverable amount of assets below their carrying value at the balance sheet date. An impairment review is therefore not considered necessary. Page 73
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23 Appendix A: Draft management representation letter (continued) Charges on assets All the Charities’ assets are free from any charges exercisable by third parties except as disclosed within the financial statements. Future commitments The Charities have no plans, intentions or commitments that may materially affect the carrying value or classification of assets and liabilities or give rise to additional liabilities. Subsequent events I confirm all events subsequent to the date of the financial statements and for which Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 require adjustment or disclosure have been adjusted or disclosed. Should further material events occur after the date of this letter which may necessitate revision of the figures included in the financial statements or inclusion of a note thereto, I will advise you accordingly. Impacts of Russian Forces entering Ukraine I confirm that I have carried out an assessment of the potential impact of Russian Forces entering Ukraine on the Charities and there is no significant impact on their operations from restrictions or sanctions in place. Covid-19 I confirm that I have carried out an assessment of the potential impact of the Covid-19 Virus pandemic on the business, including the impact of mitigation measures and uncertainties, and am satisfied that the financial statements and supporting notes fairly reflects that assessment. Going concern To the best of my knowledge there is nothing to indicate that the Charities will not continue as a going concern in the foreseeable future. The period to which I have paid particular attention in assessing the appropriateness of the going concern basis is not less than twelve months from the date of approval of the accounts. Page 74
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24 Appendix A: Draft management representation letter (continued) Narrative Report The disclosures within the Narrative Report fairly reflect my understanding of the Charities’ financial and operating performance over the period covered by the financial statements. Unadjusted misstatements I confirm that there are no unadjusted misstatements. Yours faithfully, Councillor Martin Rooney Trustee Page 75
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25 Appendix B: Draft audit report Independent auditor’s report to the trustees of West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds and the Accounts Commission Report on the audit of the financial statements Opinion on the financial statements We certify that we have audited the financial statements in the statement of accounts of West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds (“the Charities) for the year ended 31 March 2024 under Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005. The financial statements comprise the Statement of Receipts and Payments Account, the Statement of Balances and notes to the financial statements, including material accounting policy information. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and a receipts and payments basis. In our opinion the accompanying financial statements: • properly present the receipts and payments of the Charities for the year ended 31 March 2024 and their statement of balances at that date; and • have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, and regulations 9(1), (2) and (3) of The Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)), as required by the Code of Audit Practice approved by the Accounts Commission for Scotland. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Charities in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK including the Financial Reporting Council’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Page 76
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26 Appendix B: Draft audit report Responsibilities of the trustees for the financial statements The trustees are responsible for the preparation of financial statements that give a true and fair view in accordance with the financial reporting framework, and for such internal control as the trustees determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities outlined above to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. Procedures include: • using our understanding of the local government sector and charity sector to identify that the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and The Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 are significant in the context of the Charities; • inquiring of the Trustees as to other laws or regulations that may be expected to have a fundamental effect on the operations of the Charities; • inquiring of the Trustees concerning the Charities’ policies and procedures regarding compliance with the applicable legal and regulatory framework; • discussions among our audit team on the susceptibility of the financial statements to material misstatement, including how fraud might occur; and • considering whether the audit team collectively has the appropriate competence and capabilities to identify or recognise non-compliance with laws and regulations. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is affected by the inherent difficulty in detecting irregularities, the effectiveness of the Charities’ controls, and the nature, timing and extent of the audit procedures performed. Irregularities that result from fraud are inherently more difficult to detect than irregularities that result from error as fraud may involve collusion, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. The capability of the audit to detect fraud and other irregularities depends on factors such as the skilfulness of the perpetrator, the frequency and extent of manipulation, the degree of collusion involved, the relative size of individual amounts manipulated, and the seniority of those individuals involved. Page 77
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27 Appendix B: Draft audit report A further description of the auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report. Reporting on other requirements Other information The trustees are responsible for the other information in the statement of accounts. The other information comprises the Trustees’ Annual Report. Our responsibility is to read all the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements, or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon except on the Trustees’ Annual Report to the extent explicitly stated in the following opinion prescribed by the Accounts Commission. Opinions prescribed by the Accounts Commission on the Trustees’ Annual Report In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit, the information given in the Trustees' Annual Report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements and that report has been prepared in accordance with The Charity Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Matters on which we are required to report by exception We are required by The Charity Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 to report to you if, in our opinion: • proper accounting records have not been kept; or • the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or • we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. We have nothing to report in respect of these matters. Page 78
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28 Appendix B: Draft audit report Use of our report This report is made solely to the parties to whom it is addressed in accordance with Part VII of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and for no other purpose. In accordance with paragraph 108 of the Code of Audit Practice, we do not undertake to have responsibilities to members or officers, in their individual capacities, or to third parties. Tom Reid, Director For and on behalf of Forvis Mazars LLP 100 Queen Street Glasgow G1 3DN XX June 2025 Page 79
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29 Appendix C: Confirmation of our independence We communicate any matters which we believe may have a bearing on our independence or the objectivity of Forvis Mazars LLP and the audit team. As part of our ongoing risk assessment, we monitor our relationships with you to identify any new actual or perceived threats to our independence within the regulatory or professional requirements governing us as your auditors. We confirm that no new threats to independence have been identified since issuing our Annual Audit Plan and therefore we remain independent. Fees for work as the Trust Funds’ auditor The fee for our work for the 2023/24 financial year is £10,000 (2022/23 fee: £6,500). Page 80
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30 Appendix D: Other communications Blank Other communication Response Compliance with Laws and Regulations We have not identified any significant matters involving actual or suspected non-compliance with laws and regulations. We will obtain written representations from management that all known instances of non-compliance or suspected non-compliance with laws and regulations whose effects should be considered when preparing financial statements have been disclosed. External confirmations We did not experience any issues with respect to obtaining external confirmations. Related parties We did not identify any significant matters relating to the audit of related parties. We will obtain written representations from management confirming that: a. they have disclosed to us the identity of related parties and all the related party relationships and transactions of which they are aware; and b. they have appropriately accounted for and disclosed such relationships and transactions in accordance with the requirements of the applicable financial reporting framework. Going Concern We have not identified any evidence to cause us to disagree with the trustees that West Dunbartonshire Trust Funds will be a going concern, and therefore we have not identified any evidence to cause us to consider that the use of the going concern assumption in preparation of the financial statements is not appropriate. We will obtain written representations from management, confirming that all relevant information covering a period of at least 12 months from the date of approval of the financial statements has been taken into account in assessing the appropriateness of the going concern basis of preparation of the financial statements. Page 81
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31 Appendix D: Other communications (continued) Blank Other communication Response Subsequent events We are required to obtain evidence about whether events occurring between the date of the financial statements and the date of the auditor’s report that require adjustment of, or disclosure in, the financial statements are appropriately reflected in those financial statements in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework. We will obtain written representations from management that all events occurring subsequent to the date of the financial statements and for which the applicable financial reporting framework requires adjustment or disclosure have been adjusted or disclosed. Matters related to fraud We have designed our audit approach to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement due to fraud. In addition, we have assessed the adequacy of the Trust Fund’s arrangements for preventing and detecting fraud or other irregularities as part of the wider scope audit and concluded that they are sufficiently designed and implemented. We will obtain written representations from management, and where appropriate the trustees, confirming that: a) they acknowledge their responsibility for the design, implementation and maintenance of internal control to prevent and detect fraud; b) they have disclosed to the auditor the results of management’s assessment of the risk that the financial statements may be materially misstated as a result of fraud; c) they have disclosed to the auditor their knowledge of fraud or suspected fraud affecting the entity involving: i. Management; ii. Employees who have significant roles in internal control; or iii. Others where the fraud could have a material effect on the financial statements; and d) they have disclosed to the auditor their knowledge of any allegations of fraud, or suspected fraud, affecting the entity’s financial statements communicated by employees, former employees, analysts, regulators or others. Page 82
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Contact Forvis Mazars www.auditregister.org.uk Forvis Mazars LLP is the UK firm of Forvis Mazars Global, a leading global professional services network. Forvis Mazars LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC308299 and with its registered office at 30 Old Bailey, London, EC4M 7AU. Registered to carry on audit work in the UK by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. Details about our audit registration can be viewed at www.auditregister.org.uk under reference number C001139861. VAT number: GB 839 8356 73 © Forvis Mazars 2024. All rights reserved. Contact information Tom Reid Audit Director Tel: +44 781 635 4994 tom.reid@mazars.co.uk Caleb Oguche Senior Manager Tel: +44 797 412 4504 caleb.oguche@mazars.co.uk Page 83
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Planning, Building Standards and Environmental Health Manager Council: 18th June 2025 _____________________________________________________________ DC24/091/FUL: Further application under Section 42 to not comply with condition 11 of planning permission DC21/115/FUL at Queens Quay Full Dev Site, Cart Street, Clydebank by Clydeside Regeneration Limited 1. REASON FOR REPORT 1.1 This report relates to a planning application for a national development and 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. 3 BACKGROUND 3.1 The site comprises the Queens Quay Masterplan area consisting of 23ha. The extent of the masterplan area lies to the south of Clydebank Town Centre on the north bank of the River Clyde, which was previously John Brown & Co shipyard. Planning permission in principle was granted (DC15/234) for mixed use development including residential (including affordable/community housing), retail (Class 1), financial/service (Class 2), restaurant (Class 3), public house, office (Class 4), hotel (Class 7), care home (Class 8), health centre (Class 10), assembly and leisure (Class 11) uses, with associated car parking, access road, quay wall improvements and landscaping in March 2016. The approved Masterplan and Design Framework seeks to redevelop the area through a residential-led, mixed-use development which re-integrates the waterfront with the wider Clydebank area. 3.2 Significant process has been made on the re-development of the site with the spine road infrastructure and the works around the basin now complete and in place. Planning permission was granted for the erection of a new health and care centre in May 2018 (DC16/244) and permission for the erection of 146 flatted dwellings and 4 commercial units was granted in March 2019 (DC18/272). In January 2018, planning permission was granted for the erection of a water source heat pump energy centre (DC17/231). The new Clydebank Care Home and Energy Centre have been completed and the Health and Care Centre as well as 146 affordable homes. In addition, in 2021 planning permission was also granted for a Section 42 application (DC21/115/FUL) to vary Condition no. 1 (development phasing), Condition no. 3 (Design Codes ITEM 14 Page 85
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reference) and Condition no. 27 (Bird Hazard Management Plan) of permission DC15/234. 3.3 This current application seeks permission to modify the terms of condition 11, which was attached to application DC21/115/FUL. Condition 11 of application DC21/115/FUL reads as follows: All applications for the approval of matters specified in conditions shall comply with the recommendations of the Flood Risk Assessment (October 2015), that is, land raising of low-lying areas of the site to above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change flood level (set at 5.1m AOD), and finished floor levels of all buildings are to be set to at least 0.6m above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change flood level at 5.7m AOD. All development shall be implemented in accordance with these details. 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 acceptability of the redevelopment of the site has previously been established with the granting of previous planning applications, DC15/234 which granted Planning Permission in Principle and DC21/115/FUL which granted a previous Section 42 application. This application is a Section 42 application to vary the terms of condition 11 of planning application DC21/115/FUL. Following consideration of the applicants proposed variation to the condition and informed by the consultation responses from SEPA and the Council’s Road Service, it is concluded, subject to the further revised wording being applied as set out in paragraph 7.23 above, the proposal is in accordance with Policy 22 of NPF4. 4.2 As the effect of granting this Section 42 application is that the previous planning permission is renewed and a new permission granted, it has been considered whether any change in any material considerations has occurred since the previous grant of permission. In this respect, NPF4 is now part of the development plan. Having assessed the proposal with reference to NPF4, it remains that, subject to the conditions set out in section 9 of Appendix 1, it is considered that the proposal is acceptable with reference to the development plan. All other conditions are re-imposed to this permission together with additional conditions 26 and 27 to address low carbon energy technologies and biodiversity to comply with policies 3 – Biodiversity and 11 – Energy of NPF4. 4.3 It is considered that the proposals accord with the provisions of NPF4, the adopted West Dunbartonshire Local Plan and proposed West Dunbartonshire Local Development Plan 2. Page 86
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4.4 At the pre-determination hearing at Planning Committee no representations were heard from the applicant, supporters or objectors. Planning Committee sought clarification on minor typo details, and it was confirmed that the wording proposed in condition 11 is correct. 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. 7 representations from members of the public have been received in objection to the proposals and consultations received from West Dunbartonshire Council Roads Service (Flooding) and SEPA. These are summarised in Section 4 and 5 of the Planning Committee report (Appendix 1). 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 Page 87
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Michael Mulgrew Planning, Building Standards and Environmental Health Manager Date: 4th June 2025 ___________________________________________________________________ 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: 4th June 2025 – DC24/091/FUL Background Papers: None Wards Affected: Ward 6 (Clydebank Waterfront) Page 88
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Planning, Building Standards and Environmental Health Manager Planning Committee: 4th June 2025 DC24/091/FUL: Further application under Section 42 to not comply with condition 11 of planning permission DC21/115/FUL at Queens Quay Full Dev Site, Cart Street, Clydebank by Clydeside Regeneration Limited 1. REASON FOR REPORT 1.1 The planning application which seeks to vary a condition attached to a previous planning permission and the proposal 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 3. DEVELOPMENT DETAILS 3.1 The site comprises the Queens Quay Masterplan area consisting of 23ha. The extent of the masterplan area lies to the south of Clydebank Town Centre on the north bank of the River Clyde, which was previously John Brown & Co shipyard. Planning permission in principle was granted (DC15/234) for mixed use development including residential (including affordable/community housing), retail (Class 1), financial/service (Class 2), restaurant (Class 3), public house, office (Class 4), hotel (Class 7), care home (Class 8), health centre (Class 10), assembly and leisure (Class 11) uses, with associated car parking, access road, quay wall improvements and landscaping in March 2016. The approved Masterplan and Design Framework seeks to redevelop the area through a residential-led, mixed-use development which re-integrates the waterfront with the wider Clydebank area. 3.2 Significant process has been made on the re-development of the site with the spine road infrastructure and the works around the basin now complete and in place. Planning permission was granted for the erection of a new health and care centre in May 2018 (DC16/244) and permission for the erection of 146 flatted dwellings and 4 commercial units was granted in March 2019 (DC18/272). In January 2018, planning permission was granted for the erection of a water source heat pump energy centre (DC17/231). The new Clydebank Care Home and Energy Centre have been completed and the Health and Care Centre as well as 146 affordable homes. In addition, in 2021 planning permission was also granted for a Section 42 application (DC21/115/FUL) to vary Condition no. 1 (development phasing), Condition no. 3 (Design Codes reference) and Condition no. 27 (Bird Hazard Management Plan) of permission DC15/234. APPENDIX 1 Page 89
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3.3 This current application seeks permission to modify the terms of condition 11, which was attached to application DC21/115/FUL. Condition 11 of application DC21/115/FUL reads as follows: All applications for the approval of matters specified in conditions shall comply with the recommendations of the Flood Risk Assessment (October 2015), that is, land raising of low-lying areas of the site to above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change flood level (set at 5.1m AOD), and finished floor levels of all buildings are to be set to at least 0.6m above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change flood level at 5.7m AOD. All development shall be implemented in accordance with these details. 3.4 The applicant has proposed an amended change in wording as follows: All applications for the approval of matter specified in conditions shall comply with the recommendations of the Flood Risk Assessment (October 2015), that is, land raising of low-lying areas of the site to above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change flood level (set at 5.1m AOD) and finished floor levels of all buildings are to be set at least 0.6m above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change floor level at 5.7m AOD EXCEPT on the site frontage shown on Goodsons Plan 12745-GOO-XX-XX-DDR-C-520600, where the finished floor level will be set at 6.1m AOD. All development shall be implemented in accordance with these details. 4. CONSULTATIONS 4.1 West Dunbartonshire Council Roads Service (Flooding) No objections. It is noted that the Flood Risk Assessment (October 2015) used UKCP09 with 20% for Climate Change allowance for the finished floor levels. Recommend that the finished floor levels are checked against the current Climate Change Allowances for the Clyde region using UKCP18 predictions for this site. 4.2 Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) Initially provided a holding objection and requested further information relating to an update to the flood risk area and minimum Finished Floor Level as well as an update of the proposal to ensure compensation for any additional loss of floodplain capacity. Once further information was provided SEPA confirmed that they would have no objection if the wording were updated to reflect the updated flood level of 5.4m AOD and FFL of 6.1m AOD across the whole site. 5. REPRESENTATIONS 5.1 Seven objections were received from neighbouring residents. The full details are contained within the planning file and are available for public viewing. However, the key points of objection can be summarised as follows: Traffic • There is currently a high level of traffic on Dumbarton Road. Construction • Concerns relating to noise from the development when working from home and within garden grounds • Noise, piling and general pollution may occur during construction and have an adverse impact on local residents • Previous construction works have caused cracks to appear in neighbouring buildings. Page 90
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Ecology and biodiversity • The development will impact upon ecology and wildlife including Skylark, deer and rabbits. • Concerns for contamination of the current water sources and the possible contamination of the ecosystem. • There are trees on the application site which may be removed. Other matters • There is no information on what is proposed to be built on site and no details of building elevations and materials • Residents view of the waterfront will be lost • The development may result in an increase in rodents • Concerns regarding the impact on property values • The application site comprises a green area which will be lost. • Concerns regarding arrangements for the increase of water and drainage, with existing drains already clogged. • The development may exacerbate current problems with heating and water. • Land at Cable Depot Road should be developed rather than this site. • Affordable housing and a development for the community should be proposed for the site. The concerns raised shall be considered in the appraisal in the Section 7 below. 6. ASSESSMENT AGAINST THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 6.1 This application, submitted under Section 42 of the Town and Country Planning Scotland Act 1997 (as amended), seeks to vary the terms of condition 11 of planning permission DC21/115/FUL which itself varied planning permission in principle DC15/234. Annex H of Scottish Government Circular 3/2022 – Development Management Procedures sets out that in determining Section 42 applications, planning authorities may only consider the issue of the conditions to be attached to any resulting permission. However, as the effect of granting this Section 42 application will see the planning permission renewed, the Planning Authority is entitled to look at the principle of development in the light of any material change in the Development Plan policies. Whilst the adopted Local Plan and proposed Local Development Plan 2 were both in place at the time the last Section 42 application (DC21/115/FUL) was considered and effectively renewed the permission in being granted, National Planning Framework 4 has become part of the development plan since this previous application. It is therefore appropriate to consider the principle of the development with reference to the development plan. National Planning Policy 4 6.2 The site is 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, (including waterfront sites such as Queens Quay) 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. Page 91
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6.3 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. Subject to a variety a matters being addressed by condition, the proposal would have a neutral impact in respect of Policies 1, 2 and 3. 6.4 Policy 7 states that development proposals with a potentially significant impact on historic assets or places will be accompanied by an assessment which is based on an understanding of the cultural significance of the historic asset and/or place. A variety of listed buildings lie in the vicinity of the site including the Category A listed Titan crane. In previously granting planning permission for the site, it was concluded there was no adverse impact and this position remains. Policy 9 relates to brownfield, vacant and derelict land and empty buildings and states that 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. The redevelopment of this large brownfield site is this supported by the Policy. Policy 11 supports development proposals for all forms of renewable, low-carbon and zero emissions technologies. 6.5 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. The application site is located in a central, accessible urban area near a wide range of facilities and transport connections. Future applications for matters specified by condition for the detail of the development on site will ensure proposals are acceptable with reference to the existing settlement pattern, and the level and quality of interconnectivity of the proposed development with the surrounding area, including local access to affordable and accessible housing options, ability to age in place and housing diversity. There is thus no conflict with these Policies. 6.6 Policy 16 relates to quality homes. Part (a) states that Development proposals for new homes on land allocated for housing in LDPs will be supported. This site is for identified under the adopted and proposed plans and is therefore supported under this Policy. 6.7 Policy 22 - 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 proposal has no objections from SEPA and as such there is no conflict with the policy. 6.8 Policy 23 relates to Health and safety. Part (e) states that development proposals that are likely to raise unacceptable noise issues will not be supported. No concerns arise in respect of this policy. Policy 28 relates to Retail and states that development proposals for retail (including expansions and changes of use) will be consistent with the town centre first principle. 6.9 With appropriate planning conditions, the proposed development is supported by all policies of NPF4 and is assessed fully in Section 7 below. Page 92
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West Dunbartonshire Adopted Local Plan 2010 6.10 The application site is identified as a regeneration priority, and under Policy RP1 there is support for the redevelopment of underused, vacant and derelict land. The majority of the proposal site is identified as housing development opportunities and Policy H1 identifies the site for private sector housing development with an indicative capacity of 1028 units and Policy H3 identifies the site for social rented housing development with an indicative capacity of 60 units. 6.11 Design and layout considerations are set out in Policy GD1 which outlines that all new development is expected to be of high-quality design and to respect the character and amenity of the area in which it is located. Proposals are required to be considered against a list of development control criteria. Policy H4 outlines requirements of new housing developments in relation to design standards and Policy GN1 requires consideration of the impact of development on the Green Network. Policy BE2 aims to ensure that in relation to any works affecting a listed building or its setting, its appearance, character and setting is not adversely affected and Policy BE4 presents the Titan Crane as a Listed Building opportunity where its proposed leisure/ tourism uses (already implemented) should be compatible with surrounding land uses. Policy R2 provides detail on the open space provision expected as part of a proposal. Policy R5 requires developers of waterfront sites to provide paths to and along the riverbank. In accordance with Policy DC3, development within the safeguarding zone around Glasgow Airport, should not affect the operational integrity or safety of the airport. In previously granting planning permission for the site it was concluded the development was acceptable with reference to the above policies and this position remains. 6.12 In respect of retail activities proposed, Policy RET1 requires a sequential approach to site selection for new retail, commercial leisure, cultural and public service development. Policy RET2 requires that consideration be given to the availability of expenditure in the catchment to support the development, the impact on the vitality and viability of town centres, whether the development addresses any quantitative or qualitative deficiencies in retail provision, and other technical, accessibility and environmental matters. In previously granting planning permission for the site it was concluded the development was acceptable with reference to the above policies and this position remains. 6.13 Policy T1 supports measures to provide sustainable transport modes including footpaths, cycle routes and improved access to public transport. Policy T2 states that the Council will identify opportunities for access improvements to Regeneration Priorities. Policy T4 requires development sites to be well integrated into walking, cycling and public transport routes. Significant new development is to be accessible to public transport networks and developer contributions will be required where such development is shown to impact on public transport infrastructure. There is no change to this position since the previous grant of planning permission. 6.14 Policy E2A states that development likely to have a significant effect on a Natura 2000 site will be subject to an appropriate assessment. Where an assessment is unable to conclude that a development will not adversely affect the integrity of the site development will only be permitted where: there is no alternative solutions; there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest. Policy E2B states that development that affects an SSSI will only be permitted where an appraisal demonstrates: the objectives of the designated area and the overall integrity of the area would not be compromised; or any significant adverse effects are clearly outweighed by social or economic benefits of national importance. In this instance the Natura 2000 site is the Inner Clyde SPA. This was fully assessed in previously granting planning permission. Page 93
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6.15 Policies F1 states that the Council will resist development that is likely to increase the risk of flooding or are located in a functional flood plain. Policy F2 requires inclusion of sustainable urban drainage. Policy F3 states that the Council will use the standards of flood protection set out in Scottish Planning Policy. The up-to-date development plan position in flooding is set out within Policy 22 of NPF4 which therefore has primacy in this instance. 6.16 Planning permission in principle has previously been granted for the site and it remains that proposal overall complies with the policies of the adopted local plan and is assessed fully in Section 7 below. 7. ASSESSMENT AGAINST MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS 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 Through Policy Queens Quay Policy 1 land to the West of Garth Drive, known as Plots 4 and 5, will continue to be supported for Business, Industrial, Commercial and Restaurant uses. Hotel or commercial leisure uses will also be considered in this area where the criteria in Policy E2 are met. The development of the site is supported by these policies. 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. The proposal offers no conflict with the six qualities of successful places. 7.4 Policy H2 states that sites in Schedules 2 and 3 are reserved for new housing development. 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. No residential amenity concerns arise. 7.5 Policy SC1 Sequential Approach and Policy SC5 Ancillary Retail Uses relate to retail and state that proposals for retail, commercial and leisure investment, and other key Town Centre uses, should align with the sequential approach and that development proposals that incorporate or assist in the delivery of ancillary and compatible uses, which enhance the sustainability and vitality of the community, will be supported where it can be demonstrated that they meet a local need, complement the primary use and have no negative impact on the network of centres 7.6 Policy BE2 relating to Listed Buildings states that development that would adversely affect the special interest, character or setting of a listed building will not be permitted unless it can be clearly demonstrated and it meets certain criteria. The proposal is acceptable with reference to this policy. Page 94
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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. 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. Subject to conditions, there is no conflict with these policies. 7.9 Policies ENV8 relates to Air, Light and Noise Pollution and Policy ENV9 Contaminated Land. 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. Developments which do not meet these requirements will not be acceptable unless sufficient justification has been provided to demonstrate why a departure from these strategies is required. No concerns arise in respect of the relevant matters. 7.10 It is considered that overall and subject to conditions, the application proposal being assessed complies with the relevant policies above. Creating Places Guidance and Green Network and Green Infrastructure Guidance 7.11 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 and it is considered this is achieved. No conflicts therefore arise with the guidance. 7.12 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. Assessment of Section 42 applications 7.13 As set out in paragraph 6.1 above, in determining a Section 42 application, planning authorities are normally limited to considering the matter of the conditions to be attached to any resulting permission. A Planning Authority may grant the permission subject to conditions differing from those subject to which the previous permission was granted or the Planning Authority may decide that the permission should be subject to the same conditions as originally granted. The former decision would result in the grant of a new permission with different conditions, and the latter decision would result in the refusal of the application, and no new permission would be granted. 7.14 The most recent permission (DC21/115/FUL) for the site expired following the submission of this application and cannot be implemented. The courts have provided guidance on such situations. As the practical effect of a refusal of this Section 42 application will in effect mean that the development would not be capable of being progressed, the Planning Authority is entitled to look at the principle of development in the light of any material change in the Development Plan policies. This is the case even when Section 42 stipulates that ‘only the question of the conditions’ shall be considered. 7.15 The context of this particular case is that DC21/115/FUL was determined by the Planning Committee in June of 2021 under the adopted Local Plan (2010) and the proposed Local Development Plans 1 and 2. Since then National Planning Framework (NPF) 4 has been adopted as part of the development plan. Proposed Local Page 95
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Development Plan 1 no longer forms a material planning consideration however proposed Local Development Plan 2 remains the Council’s most up to date spatial strategy, subject to compatibility with NPF4. 7.16 The 1997 Act requires that when making decisions under that Act it is necessary to have regard to the Development Plan and make decisions that accord with it unless material considerations indicate otherwise. It is therefore necessary to consider the principle of development, consider how it complies with current policy, and consider whether the application should be refused, or approved with amended, or new, planning conditions. Principle of Development 7.17 Since the planning consent to which the condition applies can no longer be implemented, the effect of granting this Section 42 application means that a new planning permission will be granted. The Planning Authority is therefore required to consider the principle of development in the light of any material change in the Development Plan policies. 7.18 The site is part of an allocation for housing in both the adopted Local Plan and proposed Local Development Plan 2 with a retail allocation also in the adopted Local Plan and mixed-use development in the proposed Local Development Plan 2. Queens Quay is the largest and most significant regeneration opportunity in West Dunbartonshire, covering an area of 41 hectares to the south of Clydebank Town Centre and fronting onto the River Clyde. It lies within the Clydebank Waterfront Strategic Economic Investment Location which supports the key sectors of business and financial services, as well as life sciences. The development of this site is consistent with the both the adopted Local Plan, proposed Local Development Plan 2 and NPF4 of providing housing and business in sustainable locations through urban consolidation and utilising brownfield land thereby reducing the need to encroach onto greenfield sites and maximising sustainability benefits. 7.19 It is therefore considered that there continues to be support within both the adopted and proposed plans for housing and mixed-use development in this location and is consistent with policies outlined above. Whilst concerns are raised in the objections received in respect of the development of the site and concerns specific to traffic, Noise and ecology, such matters were fully considered in previously granting planning permission in principle. Contrary to the objections received, the application site does not comprise an area of greenspace Overall, the principle of the development remains acceptable. Flood risk and water management 7.20 The Section 42 application has been submitted to alter Condition 11 so that figures noted in the original condition relating to land raising and floor level can be amended. To assess if it is acceptable to amend these figures there needs to be an assessment as to the reason the figures were first conditioned and whether or not these figures still apply. 7.21 The condition was applied as “the site is at risk from flooding by the adjacent River Clyde”. Since the attachment of this condition to the previous granting of planning permission in principle in 2016, there has been a change in policy position in that National Planning Framework 4 has been introduced. Through policy 22 of NPF4, there has been a shift to promoting an avoidance as a first principle and reducing the vulnerability of existing and future development to flooding. In addition, updated flood modelling for the Clyde area is now available. Page 96
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7. 22 The applicant proposed to update the wording of the condition to add reference the site frontage where the proposed finished floor level will be set at 6.1m AOD. This would mean the rest of the condition originally added would be maintained with the rest of the site sitting at 5.07m AOD. SEPA were consulted on the application and initially objected to the proposal requesting further information from the applicant. When this was provided, SEPA suggested that the objection would be maintained unless the condition was further reworded to ensure that finished floor levels were set at 6.1m AOD across the whole of the site. The applicant has confirmed that this would be acceptable by them and as such the condition has been further reworded to include this recommendation by SEPA. 7.23 As such, it is recommended that the condition read as follows: “All applications for the approval of matters specified in conditions shall include land raising of low-lying areas of the site to above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change flood level (set at 5.4m AOD), and finished floor levels of all buildings are to be set to at least 0.6m above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change floor level at 6.1m AOD. All development shall be implemented in accordance with these details.” 7.24 When undertaking the assessment of the proposed variation to Condition 11, Policy 22 of NPF4 is relevant. Policy 22 (Flood risk and water management) of NPF4 seeks to strengthen resilience to flood risk by promoting avoidance as a first principle and reducing the vulnerability of existing and future development to flooding. Policy 22 states that development proposals at risk of flooding or in a flood risk area will only be supported in certain circumstances, including 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. In such cases, it will be demonstrated by the applicant that: all risks of flooding are understood and addressed; there is no reduction in floodplain capacity, increased risk for others, or a need for future flood protection schemes; the development remains safe and operational during floods; flood resistant and resilient materials and construction methods are used; and future adaptations can be made to accommodate the effects of climate change. The Council’s Road Service offer no objections on flooding grounds but highlight the updated climate modelling. SEPA offer no objection to the proposal. However, in order to take account of the updated climate and flood modelling, the granting of this application requires to be subject of the condition set out in paragraph 7.23 above. It is considered that subject to this condition the development proposal is acceptable with reference to with the adopted Local Plan and proposed Local Development Plan policies and with the increased flood resilience resulting from the additional conditioned requirements and the more compliant with Policy 22 of NPF4. Outstanding matters raised in representations 7.25 Considering the outstanding points within the objections not already covered in the assessment above, whilst an element of disruption can be expected during the construction phase, this can be mitigated against through a Construction Environmental Management Plan and this is recommended to be addressed by condition. Damage to neighbouring properties would be a civil matter between the parties involved. This application relates to a planning permission in principle and as such the detail of the development including layout, design and drainage will be addressed via future applications for the approval of matters specified by condition. Loss of view, the reduction in property value and concerns regarding rodents are not material planning considerations and there is nothing to suggest the development would result in adverse issues relating to heating and hot water. Page 97
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8. CONCLUSION 8.1 The acceptability of the re-development of the site has previously been established with the granting of planning permission in principle (ref: DC15/234) and previous Section 42 applications (ref: DC21/115/FUL). This application is a Section 42 application to vary the terms of condition 11 of planning application DC21/115/FUL. Following consideration of the applicants proposed variation to the condition and informed by the consultation responses from SEPA and the Council’s Road Service, it is concluded, subject to the further revised wording being applied as set out in paragraph 7.23 above, the proposal is in accordance with Policy 22 of NPF4. 8.2 As the effect of granting this Section 42 application is that the previous planning permission is renewed and a new permission granted, it has been considered whether any change in any material considerations has occurred since the previous grant of permission. In this respect, NPF4 is now part of the development plan. Having assessed the proposal with reference to NPF4, it remains that, subject to the conditions set out below, it is considered that the proposal is acceptable with reference to the development plan. All other conditions are re-imposed to this permission together with additional conditions 26 and 27 to address low carbon energy technologies and biodiversity to comply with policies 3 – Biodiversity and 11 – Energy of NPF4 9. CONDITIONS 1. For the avoidance of doubt, Phase 1 works relate to any works associated with the spine road, road improvements, quay walls, and public realm. The linear park will be completed following completion of the relevant residential phase to which it relates with the pocket parks and basin play park to be completed within a timescale agreed with the Planning Authority, all identified on annotated masterplan E2604.Sk001revJ received on 22nd June 2021 in connection with planning application DC21/115/FUL. Reason: To provide clarity and to ensure the conditions relate to the correct phasing. 2 Prior to commencement of any development on site, further applications for the approval of matters specified below shall be obtained from the planning authority. Applications shall include: a) site layout plans showing the position of all buildings, roads, footpaths, parking areas, walls, fences and landscaping; b) block and layout plans and elevations of each building, showing dimensions and palettes of external materials; c) landscape and streetscape plans showing the location and species of all proposed trees, shrubs, hedges, palettes of hard landscaping materials and street furniture; d) details of existing and proposed ground levels, and finished floor levels, relating to a clearly identified fixed datum point; e) a detailed report on the extent, scale and nature of any contamination of the site; and f) a detailed remediation scheme detailing the measures necessary to bring the site to a condition suitable for the intended use. Reason: To ensure full details are provided for each aspect of the development. 3. As part of any application(s) for approval of matters specified in conditions, and with regard to the requirements of condition 2 above, the design and layout of development parcels shall comply with the design principles/intents set out in sections 05 and 06 of the Design & Access Statement (Rev C, March 2016), the accompanying Framework Page 98
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Drawing No. P(0) 003 Rev E (or any subsequent amendments thereto), and the approved Design Codes for Queens Quay (approved September 2020) unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Planning Authority. Reason: To ensure the design principles agreed in these documents form part of the consideration of any subsequent planning applications 4. At the same time as the submission of the first commercial use application (excluding any district heating system) a mini masterplan shall be submitted for the mixed used area coloured yellow on Drawing No. P(0) 003 rev E (including building plots, design principles and a parking strategy) for the further approval of the Planning Authority. Reason: In order to allow consideration of the proposed mix of uses, and to ensure consistency of design standards across the site and that a parking strategy is considered early in the design process. 5. As part of any application(s) for the approval of matters specified in conditions for Phase 1 works, and notwithstanding the requirements of condition 2c) above, details of the landscaping strategy for the spine road, linear park and pocket parks shall include: a) location and species of all proposed trees, shrubs, hedges; b) palettes of hard landscaping materials, street furniture and play equipment; c) identify potential locations for public art; and d) the means of management and maintenance of the landscaping and public open space. Reason: To ensure full details are submitted for further consideration. 6. No development (other than the spine road works, road improvement works, quay wall works, public realm works, health and care site works and investigative works, but excluding the linear and pocket parks) shall commence on site until such time as a site-wide water environment investigation and assessment has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority. 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 site in order to identify the extent, scale and nature of contamination with regards to the water environment. b) An appropriate level of assessment that identifies the key receptors and the significance of any pollutant linkages found to be present. c) 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 public health and to ensure that the site is suitable for its intended use. 7. No development (other than the spine road works, road improvement works, quay wall works, public realm works, health and care site works and investigative works, but excluding the linear and pocket parks) shall commence on site until such time as a site wide assessment of the underlying ground gas regime has been submitted to and Page 99
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approved in writing by the Planning Authority. 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 site in order to assess the ground gas conditions that currently exist under the site. b) A strategy confirming that and detailing how the monitoring of ground gas boreholes will continue throughout the various development phases. It should also refer to the future method of reporting to the Planning Authority as the development progresses. c) A preliminary assessment of the implications of the existing ground gas conditions on the proposed mixed-use development. Any measures identified in the report shall be implemented as approved within a timescale agreed with the Planning Authority. Reason: To protect public health and to ensure that the site is suitable for its intended use. 8. As part of any application(s) for the approval of matters specified in conditions, Noise Impact Assessments for each development parcel shall be carried out to assess the potential impacts of noise from sources including road traffic, air traffic, plant equipment and entertainment noise and submitted for the further approval of the Planning Authority. Reason: In order to avoid disturbance to residential properties. 9. Prior to the reuse of material from the onsite spoil mounds and/or the importation of any material onto the site, details of the source of the material and associated test results to demonstrate its suitability for use shall be submitted to the Planning Authority for approval. In addition to this and in accordance with BS3882:2015, the material shall also be free from metals, plastic, wood, glass, tarmac, paper and odours associated with contaminated soils. Reason: To protect public health and to ensure that the site is suitable for its intended use. 10. No development shall commence until the developer submits an archaeological mitigation strategy for the further approval of the Planning Authority. Thereafter the developer shall ensure that the approved strategy is fully implemented in accordance with the recommendations set out in sections 8.339 – 8.353 of the Environmental Statement approved under planning permission DC15/234 and that all recording and recovery of archaeological resources within the development site is undertaken in agreement with the Planning Authority and West of Scotland Archaeology Service. Reason: The site is of archaeological significance and the strategy will set out the general scope of mitigation work to be followed before and during development but allow the detailed preparation of more detailed Written Schemes of Investigation to be brought forward for approval as each development parcel becomes imminent. 11. All applications for the approval of matters specified in conditions shall include land raising of low-lying areas of the site to above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change flood level (set at 5.4m AOD), and finished floor levels of all buildings are to be set to at least 0.6m above the 1 in 200 year plus climate change floor level at 6.1m AOD. All development shall be implemented in accordance with these details. Page 100
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Reason: To mitigate against the risk from flooding by the adjacent River Clyde. 12. As part of the approval of matters specified in conditions, each development parcel shall comply with the recommendations of the Drainage Impact Assessment (Rev B, October 2015) with details of the means of disposal of surface water, foul sewage and a Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme to be submitted for the further approval of the Planning Authority. Reason: To ensure an appropriate means of drainage for the site. 13. The number of dwelling units consented for the site shall not exceed 1,056 units unless otherwise first agreed in writing by the Planning Authority. Reason: In order to ensure that the density of development is appropriate to the site and that the number of dwelling units does not exceed the figure upon which the Transport Assessment was based without proper consideration of any resultant implications. 14. Prior to the commencement of development, a strategy detailing the implementation of community/affordable housing provision within the site shall be submitted for the further approval of the Planning Authority. Reason: In order to ensure the provision of an appropriate level of social housing. 15. As part of the Phase 1 application for the approval of matters specified in conditions, a Construction and Environmental Management Plan shall be submitted for the further approval of the Planning Authority in consultation with NatureScot. It shall: a) detail measures to screen the development in terms of noise and visual disturbance from the Inner Clyde SPA, Ramsar site and SSSI; b) detail measures to limit pollution to the Inner Clyde SPA, Ramsar site and SSSI; c) identify those works that are likely to have significant potential for visual and noise disturbance, such as piling. No works which are identified as likely to have a significant potential for visual and/or noise disturbance shall be carried during the main wintering period (September to early April). The Construction and Environmental Management Plan shall be implemented within a timescale agreed with the Planning Authority. Reason: In order to minimise the risk of the development giving rise to adverse impacts upon the protected Inner Clyde SPA, Ramsar site and SSSI. 16. As part of the Phase 1 application for the approval of matters specified in conditions, a detailed Recreation and Access Management Plan which details measures to limit potential disturbance to the north shore of the Inner Clyde SPA, Ramsar site and SSSI from increased access to the river shall be submitted for the further approval of the Planning Authority and implemented within a timescale agreed with the Planning Authority. Reason: In order to minimise the risk of the development giving rise to adverse impacts upon the protected Inner Clyde SPA, Ramsar site and SSSI. 17. As part of the Phase 1 application for the approval of matters specified in conditions, the applicant shall submit a Sustainable Transport Strategy which shall include details of: Page 101
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a) bus integration into the site; b) walking routes to/from the site; c) location of bus stops; d) green travel plans; and e) initiatives towards encouraging bus services into the site. The recommendations of the Sustainable Transport Strategy shall require to be implemented in accordance with an agreed phasing plan within a timescale agreed with the Planning Authority. Reason: To deliver effective, efficient and integrated transport for the site that does not have a detrimental impact on the sustainability of the existing town centre. 18. As part of any application for approval of matters specified in conditions, a Travel Plan shall be submitted to and approved by the Planning Authority detailing the opportunities for sustainable travel to and from that development parcel. Reason: To promote sustainable means of transport and to reduce reliance on the car. 19. As part of the Phase 1 application for the approval of matters specified in conditions, the following shall be included: a) details of parking provision for visitors to the Titan Crane and the riverside walkway; and b) details of the new signal-controlled junction and realignment of Cable Depot Road (section 9.14 of the Transport Assessment (October 2015). c) These works shall be implemented as approved as part of the Phase 1 works to the site. Reason: To ensure that the development is provided with adequate parking facilities in order to minimise the incidence of roadside parking which would be a danger to other road users. 20. Prior to any part of the development site being occupied or otherwise being brought into use, the works recommended in the Transport Assessment (October 2015) to realign Ailsa Road (section 9.12) and carry out layout improvements to Cart Street/Glasgow Road junction (section 9.23) shall be implemented as approved. Reason: To ensure that the development is provided with adequate parking facilities in order to minimise the incidence of roadside parking which would be a danger to other road users. 21. As part of any application(s) for the approval of matters specified in conditions, parking spaces shall be provided in accordance with the Council’s adopted parking standards, and no building shall be occupied until its parking facilities have been completed. Reason: To ensure that the development is provided with adequate parking facilities in order to minimise the incidence of roadside parking which would be a danger to other road users. 22. As part of any application(s) for the approval of matters specified in conditions, each residential unit shall be provided with a secure covered bicycle storage facility at ground floor level. Each non-residential development shall have adequate secure Page 102
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covered cycle storage for staff in addition to adequate securable covered cycle facilities for visitors/customers. Reason: To encourage the use of sustainable forms of travel and to discourage crime by providing secure facilities. 23. The amount of retail floor space permitted is 3,000m² (gross). Any unit trading primarily in convenience goods shall not exceed 1,000m². Any unit trading in comparison goods shall not exceed 250m². Proposals to exceed these floor space thresholds shall be the subject of a separate planning application and retail statement for the further approval of the Planning Authority. Reason: To limit the impact of the development on Clydebank town centre to the levels tested in the Planning and Retail Statement (GVA James Barr, October 2015), and to ensure that a convenience store is included in the development which is of a size to increase choice within Clydebank. 24. As part of any application(s) for the approval of matters specified in conditions details of soft and water landscaping works shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority in consultation with Glasgow Airport. Details must comply with Advice Note 3 “Potential Bird Hazards from Amenity Landscaping & Building Design”. These details shall include: • The species, number and spacing of trees and shrubs • Details of any water features • Drainage details including SUDS – such schemes must comply with Advice Note 6 “Potential Bird Hazards from Sustainable Urban Drainage Schemes” The scheme shall be implemented as approved. Reason: To avoid endangering the safe movement of aircraft and the operation of Glasgow Airport through the attraction of birds and an increase in the bird hazard risk of the application site. 25. Any development that would create a roof area greater than 250 square metres with a roof pitch of less than 15° shall not commence until a Bird Hazard Management Plan has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Planning Authority in consultation with Glasgow Airport. The submitted plan shall include details of the management of the roofs within the site which may be attractive to nesting, roosting and “loafing” birds. The management plan shall comply with Advice Note 8 “Potential Bird Hazards from Building Design”. Reason: To avoid endangering the safe movement of aircraft and the operation of Glasgow Airport through the attraction of birds and an increase in the bird hazard risk of the application site. 26. As part of the first application for the approval of matters specified in conditions under Condition 2 above, an Energy Strategy for the site shall be submitted for the approval of the Planning Authority. The Energy Strategy shall include details for the delivery and implementation of on-site low carbon and renewable energy solutions, building specific technologies and features alongside any other measures aimed at increasing energy efficiency on the site. The approved strategy including any agreed measures shall be implemented on site and unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Planning Authority and shall remain in place for the lifetime of the development. Any modifications or Page 103
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updates required for the approved strategy shall first be subject to the written approval of the Planning Authority and implemented thereafter as approved. All subsequent applications for matters specified by condition under Condition 2 above shall demonstrate adherence to the agreed approach. Reason: To ensure the incorporation of low carbon technologies and minimise greenhouse gas emissions 27. As part of the first application for the approval of matters specified in conditions under Condition 2 above, a biodiversity enhancement strategy for the site shall be submitted for the approval of the Planning Authority. The biodiversity enhancement strategy shall include details designed to protect biodiversity, reverse biodiversity loss, deliver positive effects from development and strengthen nature networks. The approved strategy including any agreed measures shall be implemented on site and unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Planning Authority and shall remain in place for the lifetime of the development. Any modifications or updates required for the approved strategy shall first be subject to the written approval of the Planning Authority and implemented thereafter as approved. All subsequent applications for matters specified by condition under Condition 2 above shall demonstrate adherence to the agreed approach. Reason: In the interests of the enhancement of biodiversity and maximising positive biodiversity benefits. Michael Mulgrew Planning, Building Standards and Environmental Health Manager Date: 4th June 2025 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 Guidance (2022) 9. Planning applications DC15/234 and DC21/115/FUL Wards affected: Ward 6 (Clydebank Waterfront) Page 104
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WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL Report by Chief Officer – Regulatory & Regeneration Council: 18 June 2025 ___________________________________________________________________ Subject: Interim Review of Polling Districts and Polling Places 2025 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this report is to seek the Council’s approval to conduct an interim review of polling districts and polling places within its area and to outline the timetable and processes for carrying out this review. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Council: (a) approves the Notice of Review and timetable as detailed in Appendix 1 to the report; and (b) notes that a report containing the final proposals and representations will be submitted for approval to the meeting of Council in October 2025. 3. Background 3.1 The previous scheme of polling districts and polling places approved by this Council was published in December 2023, following a full review of the scheme which is required every five years. This interim review is necessary to update the scheme as some of the existing polling places are no longer available to the Council and there has been a small change to the boundary line between the Dumbarton and Clydebank and Milngavie Scottish Parliamentary constituencies which will affect the existing polling districts. 4. Main Issues 4.1 The updated electoral registers will be published on 1 December 2025 and therefore the review requires to be completed in ample time for any changes affecting polling districts to be included in the revised registers. 4.2 A copy of the proposed timetable and public notice for the conduct of the review is attached as Appendix 1 to this report, for approval. Appendix 2 provides, for information, a list of those polling places approved following the review in 2023. Members will note that alternative polling places were also proposed for those polling places subject to lease or transfer or closure. ITEM 15 Page 105
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4.3 When carrying out such a review, the Council is required by law to consult the local Parliamentary Returning Officer, who must submit representations to the authority on the polling scheme. These representations must be published by the authority with relevant parties being given the opportunity to comment on them. The Returning Officer’s representations will be published on the Council’s website and made available in offices and libraries in accordance with the proposed timetable. A copy of the Returning Officer’s representations will also be issued, for comment, to all elected members and a range of local organisations which represent disabled people, elderly people and ethnic minorities. 5. People Implications 5.1 There are no implications for employees of this Council. 6. Financial Implications 6.1 There are no financial implications arising from the consultation but there may be some implications from any proposals to be considered in due course. 7. Risk Analysis 7.1 The Council is expected to review its polling scheme on a regular basis to ensure it is fit for purpose. Failure to do so could result in reputational damage to the Council. 8. Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) 8.1 The Council must ensure that, so far as is reasonable and practicable, every polling place within the area is accessible to electors who are disabled. Accordingly, local organisations representing disabled people, the elderly and other groups will be invited to comment on the Returning Officer’s representations and thereafter an EIA will be completed for consideration prior to the revised scheme being approved. 9. Consultation 9.1 Officers from legal and finance have been consulted on the content of this report. 9.2 A formal public consultation will take place once the Returning Officer’s representations are made available for inspection in August 2025. 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: 1 May 2025 Page 106
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Person to Contact: George Hawthorn, Manager, Democratic and Registration Services. Telephone 01389 737204 or e-mail: george.hawthorn@west- dunbarton.gov.uk Appendices: 1. Proposed public notice and timetable for the review of polling districts and polling places. 2. List of approved Polling Places following the full review in 2023. Background Papers: None Wards Affected: Those wards affected will be identified during the review and specified in a future report to the Council. Page 107
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Appendix 1 WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL INTERIM REVIEW OF POLLING DISTRICTS AND POLLING PLACES 1. Notice is hereby given that the Council is carrying out an interim review of polling districts and polling places the West Dunbartonshire Council area. 2. The Returning Officer will make comment on the proposed polling places. 3. Electors in the West Dunbartonshire Council area may make representations on the Council’s proposals or on the Returning Officer’s comments. 4. The Council particularly welcomes representations from any person or organisation with expertise in access for persons with disabilities. 5. Persons or organisations making representations should, if possible, suggest alternative locations for the polling places. 6. A list of proposed polling places will be made available online at https://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/council/voting-and-elections or for inspection at main libraries and at the Council Offices, 16 Church Street, Dumbarton. 7. Any representations should be addressed in writing to Alan Douglas, Chief Officer, Regulatory & Regeneration by email to elections@west- dunbarton.gov.uk or by letter to the Council Offices, 16 Church Street, Dumbarton. . 8. Proposals will be available in accordance with the following timetable: Existing arrangements available for inspection and commencement of the review. 25 August 2025 Publication of the Returning Officer’s representations. 25 August 2025 Closing date for representations by electors and consultees. 5 October 2025 Proposals submitted to Council Meeting. 29 October 2025 Publication of final proposals 1 December 2025 Peter Hessett Chief Executive Page 108
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Appendix 2 LIST OF POLLING DISTRICTS AND POLLING PLACES 2023 LO1D KILMARONOCK MILLENNIUM HALL, Church Road, Gartocharn G83 8NF LO2D LENNOX HALL, 101 Main Street, Jamestown G83 8AZ LO3D VALE OF LEVEN SWIMMING POOL, North Main Street, Alexandria G83 0UE LO4D ST. KESSOG’S CHURCH HALL, Balloch Road, Balloch G83 8LQ LE5D ALEXANDRIA COMMUNITY CENTRE, Main Street, Alexandria, G83 0NU LE6D ST. MARTIN’S CHURCH HALL, 331 Main Street, Renton G82 4PZ LE7D CARMAN CENTRE, 175 Main Street, Renton G82 4PF LE8D DALMONACH COMMUNITY CENTRE, First Avenue, Bonhill G83 9AU LE9D BONHILL COMMUNITY CENTRE, Ladyton, Bonhill G83 9DZ LE10D BONHILL CHURCH (ANGUS ROOM), Main Street, Bonhill, G83 9HR Page 109
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Appendix 2 LE11D CUTTY SARK CENTRE, 58 Howatshaws Road, Dumbarton G82 3DR DU13D WEST KIRK CHURCH HALL, Westbridgend, Dumbarton G82 4BP DU14D DALREOCH UNITED FREE CHURCH, 100 Hawthornhill Road, Dumbarton G82 5JB DU15D ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH HALL, Cardross Road, Dumbarton G82 4JE DU16D WEST DUMBARTON ACTIVITY CENTRE, Ardoch Crescent, Dumbarton G82 3EN DU17D BRAEHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL, Meadow Road, Dumbarton G82 2BL LE12D DU18D CONCORD COMMUNITY CENTRE, St. Mary’s Way, Dumbarton G82 1LJ DU19D KNOXLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL, Leven Street, Dumbarton G82 1QU DU20D ST. PATRICK’S PRIMARY SCHOOL, Crosslet Road, Dumbarton G82 2LQ Page 110
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Appendix 2 DU21D ABBOTSFORD HOTEL (Leven Suite), Stirling Road, Dumbarton, G82 2PJ DU22D MILTON COMMUNITY HALL, King George’s Field, Milton, Dumbarton G82 2TT DU23C DU23D BOWLING COMMUNITY HALL, Dumbarton Road, Bowling G60 5AQ KP1C GLENHEAD COMMUNITY CENTRE, Duntiglennan Road, Duntocher, Clydebank G81 6AF KP2C GOLDENHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL, Stewart Drive, Hardgate, Clydebank G81 6AH KP3C FAIFLEY PARISH CHURCH HALL, Faifley Road, Clydebank G81 5AR KP4C ST. JOSEPH’S CHURCH HALL, Faifley Road, Clydebank G81 5EZ Page 111
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Appendix 2 CC5C DALMUIR BARCLAY CHURCH, 21 Durban Avenue, Clydebank G81 4JL CW13C CC6C PARKHALL LIBRARY, Hawthorn Road, Clydebank G81 3EF CC7C ST. STEPHEN’S CHURCH HALL, Park Road, Clydebank G81 3LD CC8C HUB COMMUNITY CENTRE, 405 Kilbowie Road, Clydebank, G81 2TX CC9C ST. EUNAN’S COMMUNITY HALL, Gilmour Street, Clydebank G81 2BW CC10C ONSLOW ROAD COMMUNITY HALL, 137 Onslow Road, Clydebank G81 2PR CC11C LINNVALE PRIMARY SCHOOL, Livingstone Street, Clydebank G81 2RL CW12C NAPIER HALL, 312 Dumbarton Road, Old Kilpatrick, G60 5LW CW14C DALMUIR COMMUNITY CENTRE, Duntocher Road, Clydebank G81 4RQ CW15C WATERFRONT CHURCH HALL, Abbotsford Road, Clydebank G81 1PA Page 112
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Appendix 2 CW16C ST. MARGARET’S CHURCH HALL, Sinclair Street, Clydebank G81 1AE In the event that the undernoted premises are no longer available for use as a polling places the Returning Officer proposes that the undernoted venues be used in their place. Bonhill Church (Angus Room) Bonhill Primary School West Kirk Church Hall Concord Community Centre West Dumbarton Activity Centre St Michael’s Church Hall Bowling Community Hall Milton Community Centre Glenhead Community Centre St Mary’s Primary School or other suitable venue in the area. Parkhall Library Parkhall Tenant’s Hall (subject to satisfactory inspection by the election team.) Page 113