Public reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 2 September 2025
Back to Bute and Cowal Area Committee — 2 September 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
Page 1
Argyll and Bute Council Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheal Agus Bhòid Executive Director: Douglas Hendry Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 605522 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 26 August 2025 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE will be held ON A HYBRID BASIS IN THE FYNE HOMES BOARDROOM, VICTORIA STREET, ROTHESAY AND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on TUESDAY, 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 at 10:30 AM, which you are requested to attend. Douglas Hendry Executive Director BUSINESS 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTES (a) Bute and Cowal Area Committee - 3 June 2025 (Pages 3 - 8) (b) Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group - 12 August 2025 (Pages 9 - 16) (c) Cowal Transport Forum - 11 August 2025 (Pages 17 - 22) 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 5. CHARTS (ARGYLL AND THE ISLES) (Pages 23 - 32) Presentation by Vice Chair of the Cultural Heritage and Arts Assembly for the Argyll and Isles 6. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE (Pages 33 - 36) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 7. RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE (Pages 37 - 44) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 8. CLACHAN FLATS WINDFARM TRUST: APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEES (Pages 45 - 48) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal & Regulatory Support Public Document Pack
Page 2
9. AREA COMMITTEE QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORTS - FQ1 2025/26 (Pages 49 - 52) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services 10. SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND 2025/2026 (Pages 53 - 64) Report by the Chief Executive Unit REPORTS FOR NOTING 11. SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - MONITORING OF PROJECTS FUNDED 2023/24 (Pages 65 - 74) Report by Chief Executives Unit 12. BUTE & COWAL AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN - SEPTEMBER 2025 (Pages 75 - 76) Bute and Cowal Area Committee Councillor Peter Wallace Councillor William Sinclair Councillor Yvonne McNeilly Councillor Ross Moreland Councillor Liz McCabe Councillor Reeni Kennedy-Boyle (Vice-Chair) Councillor Daniel Hampsey Councillor Gordon Blair (Chair) Councillor Audrey Forrest Contact: June Begg, Senior Committee Assistant Tel:
Page 3
MINUTES of MEETING of BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE held in the ON A HYBRID BASIS IN THE QUEEN'S HALL, DUNOON AND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on TUESDAY, 3 JUNE 2025 Present: Councillor Gordon Blair (Chair) Councillor Daniel Hampsey Councillor Liz McCabe Councillor Ross Moreland Councillor Audrey Forrest Councillor William Sinclair Councillor Peter Wallace Attending: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager Colin Young, Strategic Transportation Delivery Officer David Mitchel, Head Teacher, Dunoon Grammar School Dale Somerville, Depute Head Teacher, Rothesay Academy Brendan Docherty, Education Manager Mark Calder, Project Manager Hugh O’Neill, Network & Standards Manager Charlotte Craig, Interim Head of Strategic Planning, Performance & Technology, HSCP Michelle Mundie, Chief Executive, Argyll Community Housing Association, (ACHA) Jean Moffat, Bute Community Council Catriona Renfrew, Kilfinan Community Council Jan Harwood Andrew Galloway, Local Democracy Reporter 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting. Apologies for absence were intimated from Councillors Reeni Kennedy-Boyle and Yvonne McNeilly. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Councillor William Sinclair declared a non-financial interest in relation to item 5 (ACHA Update) due to being the Council’s appointee on the ACHA Board. Having reviewed the content of the presentation, he did not feel that there was any substantive decision being taken and therefore advised that he would remain in the meeting during the consideration of this item of business. 3. MINUTES (a) Bute and Cowal Area Committee - 4 March 2025 The Minute of the meeting of the Bute and Cowal Area Committee, held on 4 March 2025 was approved as a correct record. Page 3 Agenda Item 3a
Page 4
(b) Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group - 6 May 2025 The Minute of the meeting of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group, held on 6 May 2025 was noted. (c) Cowal Transport Forum - 9 May 2025 The Minute of the Meeting of the Cowal Transport Forum, held on 9 May 2025 was noted. 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME The Committee Manager advised that there had been a question submitted by a member of the public in advance of the meeting, and details of the question was provided to the Committee. Question – David Eaglesham, Colintraive The view expressed by Colintraive & Glendaruel Community Council that the Friday evening stage on the B836 Old Coast Rad should only go ahead if the road is fully repaired, it is the majority opinion of residents along this road that the Rally is a nuisance and an affront to their reasonable enjoyment of their properties by being denied access for some 7 hours. I believe that residents on the "West Glen" road are similarly minded and there is considerable opposition to the B8000 Otter Ferry & Kilfinan stages What is the point of democracy if both Argyll & Bute Council and Colintraive & Glendaruel Community Council ignore the views of residents? It is little wonder that so few people can be bothered to attend Community Council meetings. Hugh O’Neill advised the Committee that the Council were duty bound to look at all events and that he had attended several Community Council meetings and rally organisers meetings regarding the logistics around this event. Three out of the four Community Councils gave their full support with Colintraive and Glendaruel partial support to the event. Mr O’Neill highlighted that the rally organisers had done a lot of work with local communities to address some of the issues and that the Council felt they could not reject the application for the rally. The Chair advised that an Area Committee Business Day has not yet been organised to discuss the Argyll Rally because dialogue had been continuing with the Argyll Rally organisers, the Roads Authority and Community Councils, complementary to discussions that the Area Committee were having. The Chair further advised that the Council administration are keen to review the role of Area Committees in respect of delegated responsibilities, specifically that localised issues, such as the Argyll Rally are determined at area level. Having noted that there were members of the public in attendance, the Chair invited them to submit any questions they may have. Question 1 - Jean Moffat, Bute Community Council Page 4
Page 5
The pavement parking on Battery Place in Rothesay has now been banned. There is only one side now for parking which is not sufficient for all the houses on this road and that this could be resolved by placing an exception at this locality. Mark Calder advised that all pavement parking is now illegal and the Council were now getting feedback on instances which will help inform future arrangements. Hugh O’Neill added that the feedback from members of the public will be investigated and that exceptions may be introduced in the future and that these would be reviewed on a case by case basis ensuring that vulnerable members of the public are protected. Question 2 - Jean Moffat, Bute Community Council Mrs Moffat advised that repeated attempts had been made to get information from the Integration Joint Board (IJB) in regards to the extra 6 beds that had been promised at Thomson Court, Rothesay and asked when will people receive answers to their questions on this matter? Councillor Ross Moreland responded that he appreciated that this is a very difficult situation and that it was his understanding that all questions would be answered by the IJB and that if this has not already happened that he would seek clarity and respond in due course. Question 3 - Jean Moffat, Bute Community Council Mrs Moffat asked where the promised investment of £980k at Thomson Court, Rothesay is? Councillor Ross Moreland responded that he did not have that information to hand and that he would seek clarity on this following the meeting and will respond. Question 4 - Jean Moffat, Bute Community Council Mrs Moffat asked when the tender was raised for the extra 6 beds at Thomson Court, Rothesay? Adding that, it would appear that a commitment was given to introduce the extra 6 beds without a full cost analysis being undertaken. Councillor Ross Moreland responded that this would be an operational matter but he would pass all pertinent financial information to Mrs Moffat following the meeting. Councillor Liz McCabe advised that Councillor Amanda Hampsey may have more information on this. Question – Jan Harwood There was around 130 letters delivered to the Health and Social Care Partnership meeting on 28 May raising concerns around the lack of progress made regarding the delivery of an extra 6 beds at Thomson Court, Rothesay, can you tell me when we can expect to receive responses to these? Page 5
Page 6
Councillor Ross Moreland advised that he would investigate the status of the responses. The Chair of the Committee further advised that he would also raise this with the Policy Lead for Care Services, Councillor Dougie McFadzean. 5. ARGYLL COMMUNITY HOUSING ASSOCIATION (ACHA) UPDATE The Committee gave consideration to the Argyll Community Housing Association 2024/25 Update which illustrated what they have achieved in 2024-25 including anti- social behaviour resolutions; repairs and new tenancies; the sheltered housing/factoring review and adaptations. Updates were also provided on performance benchmarking against the Scottish average and on the redevelopment projects at High Street/Russell Street and Ferfadd Court, Rothesay and Finbracken, Sandbank together with future plans. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee noted the Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) update as presented. (Reference: Report by Michelle Mundie, ACHA, dated 3 June 2025, submitted) 6. ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL SECONDARY SCHOOL ATTAINMENT REPORTS (a) Dunoon Grammar School The Committee heard from Brendan Docherty, Education Manager and David Mitchell, Head Teacher of Dunoon Grammar School, who picked out some highlights from the school report. The report included information in relation to S3 Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy, National Qualifications and Insight data. Information in relation to wider achievement qualifications; equity and attainment and Pupil Equity Funding was also provided. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee noted the contents of the report and information provided. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education, dated 3 June 2025, submitted) (b) Rothesay Academy The Committee heard from Brendan Docherty, Education Manager and Dale Somerville, Depute Head Teacher of Rothesay Academy, who picked out some highlights from the school report. The report included information in relation to S3 Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy, National Qualifications and Insight data. Information in relation to wider achievement qualifications; equity and attainment and Pupil Equity Funding was also provided. Page 6
Page 7
Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee noted the contents of the report and information provided. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education, dated 3 June 2025, submitted) The Chair ruled and Members agreed to alter the order of business of the agenda, the items are recorded as they were considered. 7. ROTHESAY PAVILION TO ALBERT PIER ACTIVE TRAVEL PROJECT - UPDATED REPORTS Consideration was given to a report updating members on the changes made to the Rothesay Pavilion to Albert Pier Active Travel Project initial feasibility and concept design reports. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee approved the amendments made to the initial feasibility and concept design reports for the Rothesay Pavilion to Albert Pier Active Travel Project. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth, dated May 2025, submitted) 8. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided links to the recent activities of Roads and Infrastructure Services. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated May 2025, submitted) 9. ARGYLL AND BUTE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ3 2024/25 Consideration was given to the Health and Social Care Partnership Performance Reports for financial quarter 3 of 2024/25 (October – December). Charlotte Craig also provided the Committee with an update on Thomson Court and Struan Lodge. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee:- 1. acknowledged performance for FQ3 2024/25 (October - December); Page 7
Page 8
2. acknowledged performance update on the National Health & Wellbeing Outcomes and Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators, as at Appendix 1; and 3. noted Delayed Discharge Sitrep as of 06 January 2025, as at Appendix 2. (Reference: Report by Senior Manager, Performance and Improvement, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, submitted) 10. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ4 2024/25 The Committee gave consideration to the Area Performance Report for financial quarter 4 of 2024/25 (January to March 2025) which illustrated the agreed performance measures for this period. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee noted the performance and supporting commentary as presented. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services, dated 8 May 2025, submitted) 11. CRUACH MHOR AND CLACHAN FLATS WIND FARM TRUSTS A report providing an update on the work undertaken by the wind farm trusts set up at both Cruach Mhor (Glendaruel) and Clachan Flats (Cairndow) in accordance with consented developments was before the Committee for information. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support, dated May 2025, submitted) 12. DRAFT BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN The Bute and Cowal Area Committee workplan was before members for information. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Committee noted the contents of the workplan. (Reference: Bute and Cowal Area Committee workplan, dated 3 June 2025) Page 8
Page 9
MINUTES of MEETING of BUTE AND COWAL COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP held BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on TUESDAY, 12 AUGUST 2025 Present: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Ross Moreland Councillor Peter Wallace Ian Woodcock, Transport Scotland Andy MacPherson, Argyll and Bute Climate Action Network Ann Kennovin, Community Learning, Argyll and Bute Council Shona Edwards, Community Learning, Argyll and Bute Council Rhydian Knight, Friends of Glenan Woods Lucy Sumsion, National Farmers’ Union (NFU) Ed Pybus, Kilfinnan Community Council Janis Marshall Reilly, Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface (TSI) Anne Campbell, Dunoon Community Development Trust Sophie Marshall, Police Scotland Andy McGregor Attending: Councillor Audrey Forrest Ailie Law, Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council John McLuckie, Community Planning, Argyll and Bute Council Douglas Whyte, Housing Strategy Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Andrew Galloway, Local Democracy Reporter Rona Gold, Communities and Partnership Manager Milly Leggett, Area Plans Officer, Argyll and Bute Council Stuart Green, Corporate Support Manager, Argyll and Bute Council 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES Having noted the apologies of the Chair, Jean Moffat, and the Vice-Chair Reeni Kennedy-Boyle, the Committee Manager invited those Partners present to elect a Chair for the meeting. It was agreed that the Committee Manager would manage the order of business. The Committee Manager welcomed everyone to the meeting and general introductions were made. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of: Jean Moffat, Bute Community Council Reeni Kennedy-Boyle, Fyne Futures Councillor Gordon Blair, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Peter Wallace, Argyll and Bute Council Melony MacLean, Argyll Community Housing Association Benedict Tustin, Scottish Environment Protection Agency Rhona Grant, Live Argyll Page 9 Agenda Item 3b
Page 10
Rhona Altin, Argyll College UHI 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTES The Minute of the Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group meeting held on 6 May 2025 was approved as a correct record. (a) Meeting of the Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group held on 6 May 2025 4. ASPIRING PLACES; COMMUNITY PROJECTS IN ARGYLL AND BUTE The Group gave consideration to a presentation by the Project Manager and Project Officer from Argyll and Bute Council, in relation to the Council’s Aspiring Places; Community Project in Argyll and Bute. The presentation provided background information in relation to the previous project approach; the Launch of the Argyll and Bute Voices & Aspiring Places Platform in March 2025; the Funding Connections Roadshow that was delivered in various locations throughout April – May; the available funding streams; the number of expressions of interest and next steps. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation by Project Manager and Project Officer, Argyll and Bute Council, submitted) 5. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING HIGHLIGHTS The Group gave consideration to a report which outlined matters discussed during a meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee held on 6 June 2025. The report also provided information on the CPP Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan; CPP Community Wealth Building (CWB) Charter; Community Planning’s Priorities Transport and Introduction to Housing; Scottish Fire and Rescue’s Service Review and also an update on changes of office bearers of Area Community Planning Groups. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by John McLuckie, Partnerships Lead, dated 13 August 2025, submitted) Page 10
Page 11
6. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP PRIORITIES (a) Transport Update The Group gave consideration to a presentation from the Community Planning Team, Argyll and Bute Council which highlighted information on how the Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership will improve transport infrastructure. The presentation also highlighted the ABOIP agreed Objectives 2024 – 2034; the work by the CPP Management Committee and information on the actions of the Transport Integration Working Group and Community Active Travel Network. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the presentation. (Reference: Presentation by Rona Gold, Community Development Manager, dated 13 August 2025) (b) Introduction into Housing The Group gave consideration to a presentation from the Community Planning Team, Argyll and Bute Council which advised how the Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership will improve housing. The presentation also highlighted the ABOIP agreed Objectives 2024 – 2034. Following the presentation, there was a question and answer session with the following statements made: . Are you aware of any funding, training or opportunities locally for construction skills development ? . What data is available for housing locally and what data is missing . Do you know of any land and assets belonging to your organisation or group that could be used for housing ? . What local information could be shared with those at risk of homelessness ? . What information do you have about workforce needs for local accommodation ? The Community Development Team thanked Partners for their comments, advising that this was the start of an ongoing conversation on housing at Area Community Planning Groups. Page 11
Page 12
Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the update. (Reference: Presentation by Rona Gold, Community Development Manager, dated 13 August 2025) (c) Local Housing Strategy Douglas Whyte, Housing Strategy, Argyll and Bute highlighted some of the recent activities within the housing system, following the emergency housing action plan put in place in June 2024; these activities included working with the Scottish Government; developing Strategic Development Frameworks to facilitate long-term delivery and securing national funding investment into housing projects in the area. Mr Whyte also advised of various developments within the locality including ACHA having acquired a site on Alexander Street, Dunoon; Fyne Homes tendering for the construction of 8 social rent units at Ballochgoy Rothesay; and planning consent having been secured for the demolition of the Lower Academy Building, Rothesay. The Community Planning Group also noted that Trust Housing Association, in partnership with Scottish Government and Argyll and Bute Council, have begun transforming their existing Manse Gardens, Strachur development into 16 fully refurbished and energy efficient homes for existing and new customers. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the update. (Reference: Report by Housing Strategy Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, 12 August 2025) 7. PARTNER UPDATES (a) Police Scotland Update The Group gave consideration to the verbal update highlighting Police Scotland’s priorities for the Cowal, Bute and Helensburgh area which covered serious and organised crime; crimes of theft and dishonesty; road safety and road crime; violent crime and public protection. Sophie Marshall also advised that the recent Pride March went well, and plans are in place for the upcoming Cowal Highland Games. Decision Page 12
Page 13
The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Police Scotland, dated April 2025, submitted) (b) Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Update The Group gave consideration to a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ1 review of local performance across Bute and Cowal for the period April to June 2025. The report gave a breakdown of the 125 incidents within that period for fires and special incidents. Mr Miller also gave a presentation in respect of the Service Delivery Review advising that the public consultation runs until September. Following the closure of the public consultation the responses will be reviewed with a decision being made at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Board meeting in December. Partners are encouraged to share and respond to the consultation. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service dated April to June 2025, submitted) (c) Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Update Consideration was given to an update from Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership’s Public Health Team which included information on Community Link Workers; Community Link Working – remote and island evaluation; Suicide Prevention Training; Argyll and Bute Living Well – Art of Hosting at the Living Well Programme; launch of Population Health Framework and Working Well with Communities Update. Partners were encouraged to send questions pertaining to the update to the Committee Manager, who would forward them to the Health and Social Care Partnership for a response. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by the Health Improvement Senior Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, dated August 2025, submitted) (d) Dunoon Community Development Trust Update Consideration was given to an update from Dunoon Community Development Trust. The update advised that over the past year and more Page 13
Page 14
the Trust has been working to develop a Local Place Plan and a Community Action Plan for Dunoon and Kirn which will be submitted to Argyll and Bute Council for approval in October 2025. Partners were encouraged to refer to the draft Local Place Plan and offer feedback. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Dunoon Community Development Trust dated August 2025, submitted) (e) Transport Scotland Update Consideration was given to an update from Transport Scotland which highlighted the ongoing works at the Rest and Be Thankful and works along the A82 between Tarbet and Inverannan. The update also advised that the implementation of the 20mph at Tarbet and Arrochar is being progressed and all locations should be fully installed throughout Argyll and Bute by the end of 2025. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Area Manager, Transport Scotland, submitted. (f) Live Argyll Community Learning Services Update Consideration was given to an update report from the Live Argyll Community Learning Service, which provided an update on Youth Work. The report provided information on the recent adventures of a group of Cowal young people to ‘Bag’ Ben Nevis; Bute Camping Trip; a total of 66 young people taking part in the Summer Give Programme and the opening of the new Youth Space based at Dunoon Foodbank. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the update. (Reference: Report by Live Argyll Community Learning Services, submitted) (g) Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Update Consideration was given to an update from Argyll and Bute TSI. The update provided information on the Scottish Government, TSI landscape and policy activity; public service reform and population health; Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund (years 5 and 6); ABTSI Page 14
Page 15
strategy review 2026 – 2031 and the Community Directory and Funding Platform refresh. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute TSI, dated August 2025, submitted) (h) Opportunity for Verbal Updates There were no verbal updates provided under this item. 8. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Opportunity for verbal updates on community based initiatives Andy MacPherson advised the group that his post, ACT Climate Project Manager, had been extended to July 2026 with the emphasis on working with Communities. Mr MacPherson confirmed that he is looking to build Community Resilience across Argyll and Bute and will be exploring options to establish pilot groups within each of the administrative areas. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the presentation. (Reference: Presentation by Andy MacPherson, ACT Climate Project Manager dated 12 August 2025, submitted) 9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The Group noted that the next meeting of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group would take place on Tuesday 4 November 2025. Page 15
Page 16
This page is intentionally left blank
Page 17
MINUTES of MEETING of COWAL TRANSPORT FORUM held BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on MONDAY, 11 AUGUST 2025 Present: Councillor Daniel Hampsey (Chair) Councillor Audrey Forrest Councillor Ross Moreland Stuart McLean, Committee Manager David Clough, Dunoon Community Council Andrew Boyd, Transport Scotland Victoria Shaw, CalMac Ewan Tait, Scotrail Kirstie Reid, Strachur Community Council Gordon Ross, Western Ferries Sophie Marshall, Police Scotland Neil Stewart, West Coast Motors Iain Slorach, CalMac Dave Cooper, Hunters Quay Community Council Attending: Andy Galloway, Local Democracy Reporter 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Councillor Gordon Blair, Ian Woodcock and Richard Hadfield Transport Scotland, Allan Comrie SPT and Kirsty Taylor-Walsh CalMac. Forum members raised concerns that there was no representative from Argyll and Bute Councils Roads Department. Action The Chair agreed to liaise with the Roads and Infrastructure Services regarding their representation at future meetings of the Forum and to invite the new Head of Service to attend a future meeting. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest. Page 17 Agenda Item 3c
Page 18
3. MINUTES The minutes of the meeting of the Cowal Transport Forum held on Friday 9 May 2025 were approved as a correct record. 4. POLICE SCOTLAND The Forum were provided with a verbal update from PS Sophie Marshall on the ongoing work of the service and the priorities for the Cowal, Bute and Helensburgh areas. Kirstie Reid raised concerns around the number of cycles being ridden on the pavements on Argyll Street, Dunoon, and the detrimental impact this was having on pedestrians. Action PS Sophie Marshall to remind the public of the dangers of cycling on pavements via social media channels. Outcome The Forum noted the update from Police Scotland. 5. FERRIES UPDATE a) Dunoon – Gourock Ferry Timetable Councillor Daniel Hampsey advised that following the decision by the Scottish Government to remove 3 sailings for the Dunoon – Gourock route that discussions around which sailings will be removed remain ongoing. Councillor Hampsey expected an announcement on the cancelled sailings to be made in advance of the introduction of the Winter timetable on 19 October. The Forum noted the importance around the publication and promotion of these changes; that changes to the ferry timetable must take into consideration connectivity with other transport providers, specifically Scotrail and that every effort should be made to overturn this decision. Outcome The Forum noted the update from Councillor Hampsey. Page 18
Page 19
b) Opportunity for verbal updates by Cowal Transport Forum Members Western Ferries Gordon Ross updated the Forum that the 2 new vessels were progressing well and that the reliability on their service remains very high. Mr Ross also confirmed that they would introduce additional capacity to meet the demands of extra visitors during the Cowal Highland Gathering. Outcome The Forum noted the update from Western Ferries. CalMac Victoria Shaw advised that the MV Argyll Flyer has had its return to service delayed and that it is now expected to return by the end of September. Miss Shaw further advised that they are looking at contingency options for the Cowal Highland Gathering weekend and will liaise with Western Ferries and West Coast Motors in this regard. Miss Shaw also confirmed the overhaul schedule dates for the MV Ali Cat (27 October to 11 November 2025) and MV Argyll Flyer (11 March to 2 April 2026). Action CalMac to share arrangements for the Cowal Gathering as soon as they are finalised with Forum members. Outcome The Forum noted the update from CalMac. 6. PUBLIC TRANSPORT David Clough advised that the 907 Bus Service to Glasgow has become an express service, with limited stops and that there is no priority boarding guarantee, adding that the connection to Braehead was an issue, as most passengers wish to travel directly to Glasgow. Mr Clough advised that Dunoon Community are working closely with West Coast Motors to explore options to introduce a 2 hourly service from Dunoon to Glasgow, calling at Gourock Railway Station and Buchanan Street, making a minimum number of stops in order to attract support from the concessionary fare scheme. Outcome The Forum noted the update. Page 19
Page 20
(b) Opportunity for verbal updates by Cowal Transport Forum Members West Coast Motors Neil Stewart provided an update on behalf of West Coast Motors, this covered the 489 service providing an evening timetable to meet all ferries from now on, the 480 service providing a return service from Hunter’s Quay to Dunoon, the 486 service changing to the 487 service on Saturday mornings, the 478 service now operating at 5.40pm to travel to Colintraive, the issue of overcrowding on the 10.45am ferry bus and the provision of extra buses for the Cowal Highland Games. Outcome The Forum noted the update from West Coats Motors. Scotrail Ewan Tait advised that fares would change from the beginning of September, as all tickets will now be the same price. There will be no off peak/peak prices and that the timetable will change on Sunday 14 December, which will have a minimal impact on Inverclyde services. David Clough asked if connecting trains to ferries could be highlighted on timetables, as not all trains connect. Mr Tait confirmed that he would explore this and will check train announcements and boarding screens for communication. Outcome The Forum noted the update from Scotrail. 7. ROADS UPDATE The Chair advised that there was no representative from the Roads Department present, but he would take back any questions received and update the Forum accordingly. Kirstie Reid raised concerns that lorries are having to hug the side of the road along Loch Eck due to its narrow width. Simon Stuart advised that Timber Transport Group have looked at this and will liaise directly with the Council Roads Department. Gordon Ross enquired when the roads in Dunoon are expected to be resurfaced. The Chair confirmed that he would raise this with the Council Roads Department and respond accordingly. Outcome The Forum agreed to pass any related questions to the Chair who would pass these to the Roads Department for a response. Page 20
Page 21
8. TRANSPORT SCOTLAND The Forum considered a written update from Transport Scotland advising of a number of ongoing activities within the locality and confirming that the full programme of works at the Rest and Be Thankful will only be determined following the conclusion of the ground investigation works. Outcome The Forum noted the update from Transport Scotland. (Reference: Update by Transport Scotland, submitted) 9. TIMBER TRANSPORT GROUP Simon Stuart advised there continues to be an impact for timber transport at the Rest & Be Thankful due to the ongoing works. Outcome The Forum noted the update from Timber Transport Group. 10. DUNOON COMMUNITY COUNCIL UPDATE Consideration was given to a report which provided information on the ongoing activities of Dunoon Community Council, including ongoing discussions around the Gourock – Dunoon ferry route, a complaint submitted to CalMac regarding incorrect information given by a CalMac employee, issues with the replacement bus service from Dunoon and lobbying of the Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, and others, around ferry provision. Outcome The Forum noted the report from Dunoon Community Council. (Reference: Report by Dunoon Community Council, submitted) 11. ANY OTHER COMPETENT BUSINESS Gordon Ross raised a question regarding the Western Ferry service on the hour, and the fact that McGill’s bus leaves before the ferry arrives. He asked if it was possible for this bus to wait at McInroy’s Point rather than the Port Glasgow station. Kirstie Reid advised that this service used to go from Calmac ferry to Inverclyde Royal Hospital and that this has been discontinued. Action The Chair advised he will investigate both points. Page 21
Page 22
12. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The Chair thanked everyone in attendance at the meeting and the Forum noted that the next meeting would be advised for November, due to the October meeting being brought forward to August. Page 22
Page 23
Page 23 Agenda Item 5
Page 24
CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts ARGYLL & BUTE COUNCIL AREA COMMITTEE SUMMARY REPORT AUGUST 2025 Culture, Heritage & Arts Assembly, Argyll & Isles (CHARTS) 2024-2025 “To raise our profile as a centre for cultural activity and vibrant and sustainable creative sector’” Argyll and Bute Council Economic Strategy 2019-2023 “Strategic importance to Argyll and Bute” Creative Scotland, April 2025 For details, see Annual Review 2024-2025 Page 24
Page 25
KEY PROJECTS AND IMPACT CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts We support the culture sector under 4 strategic areas: Achieve, Connect, Promote, Sustain Key project supporters, include the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Creative Scotland, the Art Fund, Art UK, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Museums and Galleries Scotland, Highland and Islands Enterprise, Foras na Gaeilge, Scottish Government and the British Museum. National collaborators include the School of Innovation and Technology at the Glasgow School of Art, the University of St Andrews, University of Glasgow. Key regional partners include liveArgyll, the Argyll and Bute Tourism Cooperative and the Argyll and Bute Museum and Heritage Forum. We support 650+ professional members, including individuals, cultural organisations and venues. Page 25
Page 26
CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts LOCAL IMPACT 2024/25 REFLECT, Remembering Together | Funders: Scottish Government. Partners: Greenspace Scotland, Argyll and Bute Council. REFLECT Argyll: 4 community projects in 4 locations - national post-COVID programme. Bute Project: Led by Luke Winter, working with the Sawa refugee group, Oasis Bute, food bank and charity shop service users. See REFLECT film. Visual Artists and Craft Makers Awards (VACMA) | Funders: Creative Scotland and Argyll and Bute Council. 9 awards - artists and craftmakers for personal and professional development. 4 awards - Dunoon and Bute. The Argyll Collection | Funders: the Art Fund, Art UK and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Awaken The Argyll Collection, curated by Exhibition Trainee, at Dunoon Burgh Hall 2024. School engagement: Dunoon Grammar Senior trip to the History of Art department, University of St Andrews. The Superpower of Looking, Art UK, improving visual literacy for schools across Argyll. Islands Support | Funder: the Scottish Government. Bute - artists and heritage practitioners supported by regular in-person group meetings. Winter 2025 – Ràmh Beacons: One-day mini festivals included Bute, focused on arts development. Page 26
Page 27
CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts REFLECT, REMEMBERING TOGETHER 4 in-person community celebrations and 1 online community celebration - Our Community Reflects, August 17th 2024. 446 Direct beneficiaries in stage two of Reflect, Remembering Together (December 2023 to August 2024). An estimated 1200+ people were directly engaged through workshops and events. Including Sawa Project, a group of local New Scots and Oasis Bute, food bank and charity shop service users. Lead artist plus 7 other creative practitioners to deliver workshops and a final public work titled “Silver Linings”. Over 200 people were engaged throughout the project. Conclusion- REFLECT was displayed at Bute Community Forest and Ettrick Bay, with the support of Mount Stuart. Page 27
Page 28
CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts GAELIC LANGUAGE AND CULTURE Gaelic Culture Strategy 2025-2028 to be launched September 2025, including consultation at Dunoon Burgh Hall. Gaelic Culture Officer, reports to the Gaelic Policy Lead Group, Argyll and Bute Council. Funder Bòrd na Gàidhlig. Projects include building relationships between Argyll and Ireland – CHARTS, commended by Bòrd na Gàidhlig. 3 new Gaelic artist residency opportunities - Kintyre and Mull, 2025/26. Seanchas Sgibinis, part of Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week 2025), engaged 54 schoolchildren and adults. Dùthchas Beò: Revitalising Reciprocity With The Gaelic Landscape. Annual event held in Knapdale and Kilmartin Glen, 2025 supported by The School of Innovation and Technology at Glasgow School of Art. AITHNE, a pilot project commissioned by Engage Scotland and delivered by CHARTS, produced 2 online events and a pilot map of participatory visual artists across Scotland whose work engages with Gaelic culture. Page 28
Page 29
ARGYLL COLLECTION Funders and partners: Argyll and Bute Council, The Art Fund, Kilpatrick Fraser Charitable Trust, University of St Andrews and University of Glasgow. Engagement and Outreach: 4-month Argyll Collection Exhibition Traineeship managed by CHARTS, hosted by Dunoon Burgh Hall, included Awaken Exhibition (250 visitors). 31 Dunoon Grammar School pupils and community members engaged. The Argyll Collection will remain on the Smartify App for another year. The Superpower of Looking, visual literacy session delivered at Kilmodan Primary, Glenbarr Primary, Dalintober Primary, Gigha Primary, Clachan Primary, Rhunahaorine Primary, Achahoish Primary and Tighnabruaich Primary. Dunoon Grammar School visit to the University of St Andrews Art History Department. A Visual Literacy session was delivered in partnership with Community Learning to the Phoenix Group, Bute. New displays curated and installed at Dunoon Grammar School Art and Design department and Lochgilphead Campus Social Science and Languages departments. CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts Page 29
Page 30
ARGYLL COLLECTION Collections Management: New inventory of the collection. Condition checks of entire collection. Refreshed the Argyll Collection council-run website. New valuation of the collection with Lyon & Turnbull, Edinburgh. Supporting academic research: Glasgow University, livestream of the Argyll Collection by Prof. Christina Young. Exploring the Argyll Collection, Jim Tyre’s archives, pubic talk at Dunoon Burgh Hall from CHARTS research manager. Naomi Mitchison, African Modernism, and Art for the People in Rural Scotland, presented by Dr Kate Cowcher at the National Galleries of Scotland. Achieving recognition: UK case study, for museum education GEM Case Studies #32: Reviewing a Museum Without Walls, The Argyll Collection, Reconnected. National presentation - for Education Scotland and Argyll and Bute Council Education Services. CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts Page 30
Page 31
CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts CAMPBELTOWN MUSEUM CHARTS in partnership with liveArgyll: Development of Campbeltown Museum; collections support, future planning, staffing, exhibitions, events and workshops. Apprenticeship in Museums and Galleries Studies, supported by Museums Galleries Scotland, resulted in a new job for a local resident; Heritage Access and Learning Coordinator (2022-current). School and outreach education and school holiday events - over 270 people achieving Heritage Heroes, Explorer level awards from Archaeology Scotland. 2300 visitors in 2024, including national and international visitors. See the international visitor map. Key lead contribution to Campbeltown Museum regaining fully accredited, Nationally Recognised Museum status. Staff support - Gaelic Culture Officer, communications and marketing, fundraising, improving museum access. Collaboration with Kilmartin Museum. Page 31
Page 32
CHARTS Culture Heritage Arts OUR IMPACT 2024-2025 - ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL SUPPORT 75K CHARTS ATTRACTS MORE THAN 3:1 RETURN ON INVESTMENT 4.4% increase in membership 4.9% increase in website users 10.4% increase in Instagram and 5.1% increase in Facebook followers 25 media coverage items, including BBC ALBA, Art Mag, The Sunday Post, Escape to the Country and the Herald 3 newly qualified apprentices/trainees enter heritage workforce 1453 people directly engaged with the Argyll Collection Since its creation, CHARTS has attracted inward investment of over £1.7m into the cultural economy of Argyll and Bute For further information, contact the CHARTS Board Seymour Adams Seymour@chartsargyllandisles.org https://www.chartsargyllandisles.org Page 32
Page 33
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 SERVICES ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 A Roads and Infrastructure standing report was a fixture on Area Committee agendas throughout the life of the last Council. In the first two rounds of Area Committee meetings in the new Council feedback was sought on the value of these updates, and their format and frequency. Generally Members felt having a standard item was beneficial and it was acknowledged that the Roads and Infrastructure weekly briefings issued to all members each Friday afternoon provide for the main sources of live information on current activities. On top of these briefings there is a bank of resources on the new Member Zone system which include the weekly briefings, subject specific briefings, ad hoc short briefings on issues, relevant previous committee reports, operational service procedures, legislation and Council policies. 1.2 In the last Council the purpose of these reports was to provide an update on service activities but since weekly briefings these have largely superseded the original stated purpose of these reports. 1.3 On the basis of the above this new format has been agreed through the December 2022 round of area committees for this standing item. This format removes duplication for Officers and rather links to existing published information, with additional updates only in the body of the reports if these are specifically requested/noted from previous meetings. The report remains as a standing item and continues to provide the opportunity for Officer engagement at the committee meetings. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Area Committee: 2.1 Note and consider the contents of this report. 3.0 DETAIL 3.1 Roads and Infrastructure Services provides Members with weekly briefings on topical service activities which are all available here. Page 33 Agenda Item 6
Page 34
3.2 As part of the resources on the new Member Zone system there are various key documents available in an online library here. 3.3 There are also additional online resources covering the streetlighting, footway, surface dressing and roads reconstruction programmes available on the website here. 4.0 CONCLUSION 4.1 This report provides links to existing published information on service activities and provides for the opportunity for officer attendance and engagement at committee meetings. 5.0 IMPLICATIONS 5.1 Policy – Roads and Infrastructure work to a number of agreed policies across the range of service areas. 5.2 Financial – revenue and capital budgets are in place to deliver projects and cyclic work. 5.3 Legal – Roads and Infrastructure Services work to a number of different pieces of legislation such as the Roads Scotland Act 1984 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990. 5.4 HR – none known. 5.5 Customer Service – none known. 5.6. Risk – risk managed through toolbox talks, safety briefings and where appropriate risk registers – all of the above are monitored through the RIS leadership and management teams. 5.7 Climate Change – due regard will be given to climate change with a view to minimising any climate change impact and these are considered as and when they arise. 5.8 Fairer Scotland Duty – none known. 5.9 Equalities - protected characteristics – where appropriate EqSEIAs will be carried out to identify any implications. 5.10 Consumer Duty – where appropriate EqSEIAs will be carried out to identify any implications. 5.11 Islands – where appropriate Island impacts assessments will be carried out to identify any implications. Page 34
Page 35
5.12 Children’s Rights and Wellbeing – none known. Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads, Transport and Amenity Services, Councillor John Armour 11 August 2025 For further information contact: Andy Summers, Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services andrew.summers@argyll-bute.gov.uk Mark Calder, Project Manager mark.calder@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 35
Page 36
This page is intentionally left blank
Page 37
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 Argyll and Bute Council is both a waste collection and waste disposal authority. 1.2 Waste disposal is dealt with by 3 separate models across the council as follows: • Island sites e.g. on Mull and Islay where landfill sites are operated directly by the council; • Helensburgh and Lomond area where waste is disposed of at sites outside of Argyll and Bute; • A 25 year (2001 – 2026) Waste PPP contract which covers the rest of Argyll and Bute. 1.3 Waste figures for these 3 waste disposal areas have been summarised within this report. Due to the way the reporting is carried out it is not possible to accurately break down the information on an administrative area by area basis for all data. 1.4 National policy decisions, guidance and regulations e.g. relating to the Biodegradable Municipal Waste landfill ban will have a significant impact on future recycling, composting and recovery performance. 1.5 It is recommended that Members note and give consideration to the details as outlined in this report and the national policy drivers that will likely impact over the coming years. Page 37 Agenda Item 7
Page 38
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Argyll and Bute Council is both a waste collection and waste disposal authority. Recycling, composting and recovery (i.e. other landfill diversion) statistics are reported quarterly within the council’s performance management system. Statutory returns to SEPA e.g. licensed site tonnage, landfill tax and waste data flow vary from quarterly to annual. 2.2 This report provides details on the council’s recycling and recovery landfill diversion performance along with national policy, targets and regulations which are likely to impact on future performance. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that Members note and give consideration to the details as outlined in this report and the national policy drivers that will likely impact over the coming years. 4.0 DETAILS 4.1 The council’s waste strategy was approved by the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in September 2019. Whilst this strategy will emerge in line with government guidance, regulation, legislation, and contractual requirements, the Strategy is predicated on the model shown below in Figure 1. Page 38
Page 39
4.2 Argyll and Bute Council operates a performance management system. Quarterly recycling/composting, recovery and landfill percentages are included split between the Islands waste disposal sites, Waste Management PPP and Helensburgh/Lomond areas. These details include: • percentage of waste recycled and composted; • percentage of waste recovered e.g. other landfill diversion; • combined percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered; • percentage of waste to landfill; • tonnes of biodegradable municipal waste to landfill. Percentages Summary of Landfill, Recycling, Composting and Recovery 2023 and 2024 2023 2024 Argyll & Bute wide % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 53.0% 69.8% % waste recycled and composted 43.3% 42.3% % waste recovered 9.7% 27.5% % waste landfilled 47.0% 30.2% Tonnes of municipal waste to landfill 30,872 18,791 Waste PPP % of waste recycled, composted and 61.2% 59.6% Page 39
Page 40
recovered % waste recycled and composted 46.0% 42.2% % waste recovered 15.2% 17.4% % waste landfilled 38.8% 40.4% Helensburgh & Lomond % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 39.5% 100% % waste recycled and composted 39.3% 44.1% % waste recovered 0.2% 55.9% % waste landfilled 60.5% 0% Islands % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 36.3% 48.5% % waste recycled and composted 36.3% 38.0% % waste recovered 0% 10.5 % % waste landfilled 63.7% 51.5% 4.3 Some points to note are as follows: • There was a slight overall reduction in recycling performance in 2024 which was mainly due to a significant amount of stockpiled soils and rubble tonnages being recycled by Biffa from the PPP area in 2023 compared to lower stockpiles of such materials in 2024. • There was a significant overall increase in recovery performance in 2024 compared to 2023. This was mainly due to the fact that all the general residual waste from the Helensburgh and Lomond area in 2024 went for refuse derived fuel (RDF) / energy from waste (EFW) whereas in 2023 this had all been sent to landfill. • The increase in recovery performance was also partly due to Tiree and Coll’s general residual waste going for refuse derived fuel (RDF) / energy from waste (EFW) using the same contractors as used for Helensburgh and Lomond. • The overall combined recycled, composted and recovery rate increased from 53% in 2023 to 69.8% in 2024. This is mainly due to the increased recovery in the Helensburgh and Lomond area described in the second bullet point above. Page 40
Page 41
• The recovery in the Waste PPP area is carried out by Biffa mainly through residual waste mechanical biological treatment plants based at their waste facilities near Oban, Dunoon and Lochgilphead. In 2024 Biffa sent some residual bulky waste items i.e. waste upholstered domestic seating (WUDS) to an energy from waste (EFW) plant as required by SEPA’s statutory guidance. Waste sent for energy from waste is also classed as recovery. • The recovery in the Helensburgh and Lomond area was carried out via new waste disposal contracts with waste contractors from the Renfrewshire area i.e. Enva (Linwood) and J&M Murdoch (Paisley) following the closure of the Barr Environmental Landfill at Auchencarroch, near Alexandria. Since January 2024, Helensburgh and Lomond’s general waste has been going for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy from waste instead of landfill which has seen a significant increase in recovery tonnages for 2024. • Cardboard is consistently the most prominent recycling material in the blue recycling bin (previously paper which was the highest proportion pre pandemic). The on-going significant cardboard proportion in recent years is likely due to significant levels of on-line purchasing while newspapers are not as widely purchased in hard copy compared to previous years. • The overall percentage of waste to landfill in 2024 (30.2%) was a significantly lower percentage than 2023 (40.7%) which was mainly due to the much increased recovery levels in the Helensburgh and Lomond area. • The tonnage of municipal waste to landfill, in 2024 decreased as a result from 30,872 tonnes in 2023 to 18,791 tonnes in 2024. • Recycling and composting is mainly from recycling collections to households and businesses, bring sites and segregated wastes from recycling/civic amenity sites. Recovery is predominantly moisture/process loss and compost like output from mixed waste treatment plants operated by Biffa and refuse derived fuel (RDF) / energy from waste (EFW) from Helensburgh and Lomond’s general waste. In addition there was also recovery from waste upholstered domestic seating (WUDS) items as they have to be sent for high temperature incineration in line with SEPA guidance, which was introduced in October 2023. • SEPA published annual recycling, recovery and landfill data for local authorities focuses mainly on recycling/composting from household waste and less on recovery in line with the waste hierarchy. Landfill Ban 4.4 The Waste (Scotland) Regulations were introduced by the Scottish Government in 2012 and included a landfill ban of biodegradable municipal waste initially from 2021. Page 41
Page 42
4.5 The landfill ban was subsequently delayed by The Scottish Government until the 1st of January 2026. An update report on the Landfill Ban was included in the June 2025 Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee. Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) 4.6 The UK Government have indicated a planned start date of October 2027 for a UK wide deposit return scheme, however the Welsh Government have indicated that they will not take part in the UK wide scheme as it does not include glass and they intend to introduce their own scheme. 4.7 A UK wide DRS scheme may result in an overall increase in recycling including other environmental benefits e.g. current non-recyclers may use the scheme plus there should be much less littering of such items. The scheme may however see a slight reduction in Council recycling performance if plastic drinks bottles and cans are no longer handled by Council recycling collections, albeit they should still be recycled in future via the UK wide DRS scheme. Scottish Government Circular Economy Bill 4.8 The Scottish Government in 2024 published details of its Circular Economy Bill which was subsequently passed by the Scottish Parliament. Further details on the Circular Economy Bill have been and will be reported at future ED&I Committees as they progress. Some of the main proposals which relate to local authorities recycling are as follows: • A Duty of Care on households regarding their waste and recycling with new powers given to local authorities for the issuing of fixed penalties to enforce this. • Local Authorities will be required to comply with a statutory code of practice on recycling. This co-design process involves Local Authorities and the statutory code of practice is expected to be published by The Scottish Government sometime during 2026. • The Scottish Government will have the powers to set mandatory recycling targets on Local Authorities from 2030 onwards. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 Progress was made on overall recycling, composting and recovery performance during 2024. Recovery performance increased which resulted in significantly reduced tonnages to landfill in 2024. National Policy drivers such as the upcoming ban on municipal waste to landfill, the deposit return scheme and the circular economy bill will have significant implications for future recycling, composting and recovery performance. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS Page 42
Page 43
6.1 Policy National policies and regulations will likely impact on future recycling, composting and recovery performance. The council’s policy is to reduce landfill. 6.2 Financial Compliance with the landfill ban from end of 2025 has financial implications for the Council. An update report was included in the June 25 ED&I Committee. 6.3 Legal The landfill ban is a legal requirement under the Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012. Other legal requirements may likely result following The Scottish Government Circular Economy Bill e.g. statutory code of practice for recycling. 6.4 HR None known 6.5 Customer Service None known. 6.6 Risk Risks to the council on the landfill ban and any other future statutory requirements are mainly financial. A future UK wide deposit return scheme for plastic drinks containers and cans will hopefully have an overall environmental benefit although it may impact on council recycling rates. 6.7 Climate Change The landfill ban will significantly reduce methane gas emissions from landfill sites in Argyll and Bute. Additional transport miles incurred taking waste to energy from waste markets will partly offset the carbon reductions achieved through not landfilling. 6.8 Fairer Scotland Duty None known. 6.9 Equalities: Protected Characteristics None known. 6.10 Customer Duty None known. 6.11 Island Communities The landfill ban will require increased transport of waste off the islands of Mull and Islay to the central belt. 6.12 Children’s Rights and Wellbeing None known. Page 43
Page 44
Executive Director with Responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services: Kirsty Flanagan Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services: Andy Summers Policy Lead for Roads, Transport and Amenity Services: Councillor John Armour For further information contact: John Blake – Fleet, Waste & Transport Manager John.Blake@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 44
Page 45
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE & COWAL AREA COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SERVICES 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 CLACHAN FLATS WINDFARM TRUST: APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEES 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Section 75 Agreement associated with planning application reference 02/00953/DET obligated the Council to establish a community trust fund to allow those communities directly affected by the windfarm to administer certain funds for charitable, educational, environmental or other appropriate purposes which do not adversely affect or work against the interest of the windfarm. In response to this clause the Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust has been operating as an unincorporated trust since being established in 2008. The purpose of the report is to advise of work undertaken to formally establish the Trust as a corporate body, and to invite the Committee to consider the composition of the Trust, taking into account changes through the passage of time since the in Area Committee first considered the establishment of arms length Windfarm Trusts, the S75 Agreement, discussion with the current chair of the Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust, and discussions with Scottish Power Renewables who are the current benefactors. The report recommends changes to the trustees identified in 2008, given considerations outlined in the foregoing paragraph and feedback received both from Scottish Power Renewables, and from the Windfarm Trust members. There may be some financial implications in terms of increasing the number of community representatives via an electoral process although this would depend on whether an election was contested. It is however anticipated that any cost could be accommodated within existing budget. Page 45 Agenda Item 8
Page 46
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE & COWAL AREA COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SERVICES 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 CLACHAN FLATS WINDFARM TRUST: APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEES 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Bute & Cowal Area Committee agreed in November 2007 to recommend a policy that “In all circumstances that a Community Trust is established this will be along the lines of the Cruach Mhor Trust as an independent Trust at arms length from the Council and that the question of whether Councillors would serve on that Trust be determined at a later date once the Council has resolved its consideration of its further arrangements for dealing with planning applications”. On 20 December 2007, the Executive Committee, taking account of recommendations on the same matter from the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee, agreed “that the existing local Area arrangements for the administration of community payments and the make up of the Trusts continue” and that the question of Councillors being Trustees would be determined at a later date in view of discussions regarding restructuring the planning committee which were being progressed at this time. On 4 November 2008, the first Councillor representing the council on the Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust was appointed per those decisions, and Area Corporate Services Manager proceeded to formally constitute the group based on the model for the Cruach Mhor Windfarm Trust, to be known as Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust. This report invites the Area Committee to further consider the matter of Trustees in light of work undertaken to formalise the Trust by way of a more formal Trust Deed. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Committee agree to revise the list of Trustees appointed to the Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust by: Page 46
Page 47
1. Agreeing that the Trust Deed reflect that Scottish Power Renewables have declined the offer of appointment as a Trustee; and 2. Resolving to increase in terms of the number of community representative positions on the trust from one to two, and that arrangements for the election of community representatives be delegated to the Returning Officer to progress. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 The Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust was established in 2008 following agreement of a policy position that the existing local Area arrangements for the administration of community payments and the make up of the Trusts continue. A report to the Bute & Cowal Area Committee reported on various arrangements including composition of the Trust as follows: 2 Representatives from Cairndow Community Council; 1 Elected Member for Ward 6 (Cowal) of Argyll and Bute Council; A representative from Scottish Power Renewables; and 1 Locally elected member of the community who is not an employee of Scottish Power Renewables or the Council. 4.2 Member of the Bute & Cowal Area Committee may recall that Officers of the Council had initially taken forward a similar paper in September 2023 regarding the Cruach Mhor Windfarm Trust. In a similar vein, while there was no specification for the Trust to be established by way of a formal Trust Deed, the manner in which the Trust has been established gives some concerns about the exposure of its members and it is the opinion of officers that a more formal set up would be more appropriate. A draft trust deed has been prepared and has been submitted to the Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust to obtain their feedback. Following discussion with the Chair of the Windfarm Trust, the Trustees have agreed that an increase from one to two locally elected members of the community would be beneficial. 4.3 In taking this piece of forward it has also been established that Scottish Power Renewables do not feel it is appropriate for them to be Trustees given the community aspect of the Trust and have indicated that they will decline any offer to serve as a Trustee. Their participation is not necessary in terms of the S75 Agreement which stipulated that funds should be awarded following consultation with the relevant local community councillor, local authority councillor, and the council. On the basis that they have confirmed that they do not wish to be a serving Trustee, it is recommended this be reflected in the trust deed for the Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust. Page 47
Page 48
4.4 Given the foregoing comments it would also be appropriate to revisit the matter of Trustees and having had discussions with the Trust on this matter, it is suggested that number of elected local representatives increase from one to two. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 While the decision to establish a community trust to disperse community benefit funding from the Clachan Flats Windfarm was taken forward, it has recently come to light that this does not provide the most adequate legal protection. Given the work to remedy that is ongoing, it would be appropriate to review decisions regarding trustees for the reasons set out in section 4 of the report. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – recommendations are consistent with the agreed position reached in 2007 that the existing local Area arrangements for the administration of community payments and the make-up of the Trusts continue. 6.2 Financial – There may be increased cost to the council in organising a second election for a further community representative. 6.3 Legal – changes to the Trust will provide more protection for members that the current unincorporated status offers 6.4 HR - None 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 6.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics - None 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty - None 6.5.3 Islands – N/a due to area covered by the trust 6.6 Climate Change – Depending on how the trust meets, there may be additional travel undertaken in attending meetings. 6.7 Risk - None 6.8 Customer Service - None Douglas Hendry Executive Director with responsibility for Legal & Regulatory Support Policy Lead – Councillor Mark Irvine, Community Planning and Corporate Services 12 May 2025 For further information contact: David Logan, Head of Legal & Regulatory Support, Kilmory, Lochgilphead (01546 604322) or Melissa Stewart, Democratic Services Manager, Kilmory, Lochgilphead (01546 604331) Page 48
Page 49
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 AREA COMMITTEE QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORTS – FQ1 2025/26 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Performance data is recorded and reported quarterly for each Council department as well as for the Council as a whole. Each of the Council’s four administrative areas is represented by an Area Committee. The performance information presented to these committees is tailored to address topics of particular relevance and importance to the respective area. Area committee are requested to note and consider the performance and supporting commentary as presented. Page 49 Agenda Item 9
Page 50
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES 2 SEPTEMBER 2025 AREA COMMITTEE QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORTS – FQ1 2025/26 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 This paper presents the Area Performance Report for Financial Quarter 1 2025/26 (April – June 2025) and illustrates the agreed performance measures. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Area Committee – a) Notes and considers the performance and supporting commentary as presented. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 This paper presents the Area Performance Report for Financial Quarter 1 2025/26 (April – June 2025) and illustrates the agreed performance measures. 4.2 The features of the Performance Report are as follows: - Indicators are grouped by Corporate Outcome. The data table for each indicator is colour coded to identify the level of reporting. o Area level measures are blue o Council level measures are grey o COI measures are white Each indicator details the o Target, Actual and Performance status (Green / Red / No Target) for the current and four previous financial quarters. o Commentary for the current financial quarter only. o Narrative explaining the performance trend e.g. This indicator is above Target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. o Where appropriate a Performance Trend Line has been added. o The name of the Responsible Officer. Page 50
Page 51
o Where possible performance is presented at both Area and Council level. 4.3 The commentary for each indicator helps ‘Tell Our Story’ and enables Elected Members to put the performance data into perspective and understand if an issue is local in nature or should be escalated up to a Strategic Committee. 4.4 As part of our improvements to performance reporting and making best use of the digital technology available to us, the information contained in this report is also available in your online scorecard which can be accessed via the Members area on The Hub. If support is required to navigate the online scorecard, please contact lorna.gillies@argyll-bute.gov.uk 4.5 To improve the response to performance queries, it is requested that should there be any queries that either the Responsible Person or Kay Owen are contacted. This should enable some queries being resolved or clarified prior to the Area Committee meeting and therefore being carried forward as Actions at a subsequent meeting 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 Area Committee are asked to note and consider the performance and supporting commentary as presented. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy All of the indicators in this report are based on agreed Council policy. 6.2 Financial All indicators with financial implications are actively managed through agreed budget monitoring processes. 6.3 Legal All appropriate legal implications are complied with. 6.4 HR All HR implications are actively managed through agreed Wellbeing and Management monitoring processes. 6.5 Customer Service All activities with customer feedback or insight are rigorously monitored for improvement. 6.6 Risk Without this information Elected Members are less informed of activities within their area. 6.7 Climate Change The Council is committed to working towards net zero. Page 51
Page 52
6.8 Fairer Scotland Duty None arising directly from this report. An IIA is not required for performance reporting. 6.9 Equalities – protected characteristics None arising directly from this report. All activities monitored in this report comply with the council’s equality policies and obligations. An IIA is not required for performance reporting. 6.10 Consumer duty None arising directly from this report. An IIA is not required for performance reporting. 6.11 Islands Communities None arising directly from this report. An IIA is not required for performance reporting. 6.12 Children’s Rights and Wellbeing None arising directly from this report. An IIA is not required for performance reporting. This report highlights examples of how the Council is committed to and working towards reducing child poverty and improving outcomes for every child Kirsty Flanagan Executive Director 12th August 2025 For further information contact: Jane Fowler Head of Customer Support Services APPENDICES Appendix 1 FQ1 2025/26 All Areas Performance Report Page 52
Page 53
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE CHIEF EXECUTIVE UNIT 02 SEPTEMBER 2025 SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND 2025/26 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The purpose of this report is to decide on the allocation of the Council’s Supporting Communities Fund (SCF) for Bute and Cowal. 1.2 The total Supporting Communities Fund budget made available by the Council for allocation in Bute and Cowal for distribution in 2025/26 is £22,500. Community groups were able to apply for funds of up to £1,500 per project. 1.3 It is recommended that 20 applicants are awarded funding. 1.4 Applicants awarded funds from the Council’s SCF have 18 months in which to spend the funds. Page 53 Agenda Item 10
Page 54
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE AND COWAL AREA COMMITTEE CHIEF EXECUTIVE UNIT 02 SEPTEMBER 2025 SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND 2025/26 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 The report details recommendations for the award of the Council’s Supporting Communities Fund (SCF). The Supporting Communities Fund budget made available by Council in Bute and Cowal for 2025/26 is £22,500. 2.2 Organisations applying to the fund were able to request up to £1,500. The SCF is popular and this year has attracted 28 applications from the Bute and Cowal area, requesting a total of over £37,000. 2.3 Applications have been scored by the Council’s Community Development Team against criteria set out in the SCF Application Guidance available on the councils webpages. Projects are scored by officers, based on a scoring matrix which can be found here. The fund is oversubscribed each year and funds are distributed based on scores, with partial funding being awarded, where insufficient funding remains to fully fund, and no award when no further funding is available. 2.4 A summary of all applications is appended to this report. 20 are recommended to be funded. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 Members are asked to agree that the 20 applications, marked as ‘Award’ or ‘Partial Award’ within Appendix 1 are awarded funding from the Supporting Communities Fund totalling £22,500. Detailed information about these projects is contained within Appendix 2. Page 54
Page 55
4.0 DETAIL 4.1 Changes to the SCF in 2025/26 include an online application form and a reduced maximum award per project. These were implemented following a review after last year’s round of SCF, which included feedback from community groups, officers and comments from area committees. 4.2 The SCF is assessed through a robust process which involves Community Development Team contact with the applicant to verify any information where required. All applicants need to provide satisfactory essential information on governance and finance to be eligible. Scoring is based on a set of criteria outlined in the guidance and made available on the council’s website: SCF Application Guidance. Applications to the fund must be for projects that come under one or more of these categories: • Fairer Communities – tackling poverty by sharing opportunities. • Resilient Communities – community capacity building/rebuilding and repairing from a pandemic • Greener, Cleaner Communities – environmental action to support addressing climate change • Creative Communities – creativity for health and wellbeing 4.3 Of the 28 applications received, one was withdrawn and 13 applicants are either new or have not applied to the fund in the past two years. 4.4 Of the applications, 20 are recommended to be awarded funding; 5 of these are for island-based projects. The applications recommended for funding are labelled as ‘Award’ or ‘Partial Award’ in the recommendation column in Appendix 1. The detail of the projects is within Appendix 2. 4.5 The projects recommended will deliver a range of activities from music, dance and drama tuition and youth sports to trips for young carers, a food festival, essential community facility repairs and walking trail improvements. 4.6 Unsuccessful applications are marked as ‘No award’ in Appendix 1. These applicants will be offered support from the Community Development Team and provided with information on alternative sources of funding. 4.7 This year the total of £22,500 available for allocation comprises • £22,500 from the Council for it’s Supporting Communities Fund. • No return of funds from previously awarded Bute and Cowal projects. 4.8 Projects awarded funding complete a report at the end to evidence the impact of the funded project. The results of this are brought to Area Committee in Summer 2027, if not before depending on project duration. 5.0 CONCLUSION Page 55
Page 56
5.1 The Supporting Communities Fund application and assessment process has been completed as set out within the SCF Application Guidance 5.2 The recommendations made fully allocate the funding available for financial year 2025/26. 5.3 The 20 projects being put forward for an award will help communities to deliver priority activities in their area in 2025/26. 5.4 All applicants to the fund are supported throughout the process and beyond by the Community Development Team. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy - none 6.2 Financial: Recommendations in the report are limited to the budget allocation available in 2024/25 for the Supporting Communities Fund in Bute and Cowal. 6.3 Legal: Applications are initially assessed to ensure that groups are constituted with managed accounts. 6.4 HR - none 6.5 Customer Service 6.6 Risk: risk to the public pound is managed through the assessment and scoring, and through end of project monitoring process. 6.7 Climate Change 6.8 Fairer Scotland Duty: The Supporting Communities Fund supports community groups in tackling poverty, reducing inequality and building a fairer and more inclusive Scotland. 6.9 Equalities - protected characteristics: Applicants are given the options of receiving the application in large print and other languages and support with online applications. 6.10 Consumer Duty 6.11 Island Communities: 6 of the applicant projects are island based. 6 of these are being recommended for funding. 6.12 Children’s Rights and Wellbeing Page 56
Page 57
Pippa Milne Chief Executive Policy Lead Cllr Mark Irvine 28 July 2025 For further information contact: Kirsty McLuckie - Community Development Officer Tel. 01631 572192 Email. kirsty.mcluckie@argyll-bute.gov.uk Suzanne Mason - Engagement and Communities Lead Tel. 01436 658933 Email. suzanne.mason@argyll-bute.gov.uk APPENDICES Appendix 1: Assessment Recommendations Appendix 2: Project Summary Sheet Page 57
Page 58
Appendix 1 – Assessment Recommendations Ref Applicant Recommendation Amount Requested Recommended Award 2025/26 Cumulative Total 1 Glendaruel Hall Award £1,480.00 £1,480.00 £1,480.00 2 Waterbaby Arts Award £1,350.00 £1,350.00 £2,830.00 3 Crossroads caring for carers Cowal & Bute SCIO Award £1,500.00 £1,500.00 £4,330.00 4 Kyles Allotment Group Award £500.00 £500.00 £4,830.00 5 Rothesay & District Pipe Band Award £802.00 £802.00 £5,632.00 6 Youthstuff Award £1,500.00 £1,500.00 £7,132.00 7 Isle of Bute Resilience Team Award £1,500.00 £1,500.00 £8,632.00 8 Strachur and District Piping Association Award £1,300.00 £1,300.00 £9,932.00 9 Dunoon Community Shed Award £1,000.00 £1,000.00 £10,932.00 10 Dunoon foodbank Award £1,500.00 £1,500.00 £12,432.00 11 Grow Bute Gardens Association Award £1,270.00 £1,270.00 £13,702.00 12 Patchwork 2 to 5 Nursery Award £1,000.00 £1,000.00 £14,702.00 13 Sandbank Community Development Trust Award £473.99 £473.99 £15,175.99 14 Bute Junior Agricultural Club Partial award £1,500.00 £1,220.67 £16,396.66 15 Bute Shinty Club Partial award £1,500.00 £1,220.67 £17,617.33 16 Innellan and Toward Family Centre SCIO Partial award £1,500.00 £1,220.67 £18,838.00 17 Lochgoilhead Climbing Club Partial award £1,500.00 £1,220.67 £20,058.67 18 Sandbank Village Hall Partial award £1,500.00 £1,220.67 £21,279.34 19 Cowal Walking Festival Association Partial award £1,500.00 £610.33 £21,889.67 20 Cowal Choral Club Partial award £1,500.00 £610.33 £22,500.00 21 Lochgoilhead Fiddle Workshop No award £1,500.00 £0.00 £22,500.00 22 Voices of Argyll C.I.C No award £1,500.00 £0.00 £22,500.00 23 Cowal Home Education Inclusion Project No award £1,500.00 £0.00 £22,500.00 24 Castle House Museum No award £1,200.00 £0.00 £22,500.00 Page 58
Page 59
25 Starter Packs Plus No award £1,500.00 £0.00 £22,500.00 26 Cowal Community Orchestra No award £1,500.00 £0.00 £22,500.00 27 South Cowal Trust No award £1,200.00 £0.00 £22,500.00 TOTAL £35,575.99 £22,500.00 Page 59
Page 60
Appendix 2 – Project Summary Sheet Applications presented in order of scoring by Community Development Officer. For submission to Bute & Cowal Area Committee for final decision (maximum value £1,500). Ref: 1 Applicant: Glendaruel Hall Recommended Award: £1,480.00 Project Summary: Funding would support the development of signposting and mapping walking trails, printed and digital guides, minor path repairs, and community-led wellbeing activities. Recommendation: Award Ref: 2 Applicant: Waterbaby Arts Recommended Award: £1,350.00 Project Summary: The grant would enable delivery of dance therapy sessions, apprentice training, project administration, and the purchase of dance props for pupils with complex needs. Recommendation: Award Ref: 3 Applicant: Crossroads caring for carers Cowal & Bute SCIO Recommended Award: £1,500.00 Project Summary: Support would allow young carers to access respite activities, including minibus transport and entry to activities such as Ardentinny Outdoor Centre and the Young Carers Festival. Recommendation: Award Ref: 4 Applicant: Kyles Allotment Group Recommended Award: £500.00 Project Summary: Funding would be used to install 400m of deer fencing and clear the fence line to protect community growing spaces from deer damage. Recommendation: Award Ref: 5 Applicant: Rothesay & District Pipe Band Recommended Award: £802.00 Project Summary: The grant would provide chanter reeds, practice reeds, drumsticks, and drum pads to support free music tuition for local young people. Recommendation: Award Page 60
Page 61
Ref: 6 Applicant: Youthstuff Recommended Award: £1,500.00 Project Summary: Support would fund microphones, bursaries for low-income families, and professional-led masterclasses in voice, choreography, and staging for children and young people. Recommendation: Award Ref: 7 Applicant: Isle of Bute Resilience Team Recommended Award: £1,500.00 Project Summary: Funding would cover traffic marshal training and travel expenses for 22 volunteers to help ensure the safe delivery of community events across Bute. Recommendation: Award Ref: 8 Applicant: Strachur and District Piping Association Recommended Award: £1,300.00 Project Summary: The grant would support tutor fees, travel, venue hire, transport, and meals to deliver a week-long piping summer school for young people. Recommendation: Award Ref: 9 Applicant: Dunoon Community Shed Recommended Award: £1,000.00 Project Summary: Support would be used to install new LED light fittings, hire mobile scaffolding, and purchase PPE to improve workshop lighting and make the space more welcoming. Recommendation: Award Ref: 10 Applicant: Dunoon Foodbank Recommended Award: £1,500.00 Project Summary: Funding would cover ingredients, equipment, and running costs for small group sessions focused on affordable cooking, food growing, laundry skills, and independent living. Recommendation: Award Ref: 11 Applicant: Grow Bute Gardens Association Recommended Award: £1,270.00 Project Summary: The grant would enable the construction of four new access paths to complete the site’s network, improving safety and accessibility for all users. Recommendation: Award Page 61
Page 62
Ref: 12 Applicant: Patchwork 2 to 5 Nursery Recommended Award: £1,000.00 Project Summary: Support would provide transport to Ardnahein Care Home and resources for shared intergenerational activities benefiting both young and elderly participants. Recommendation: Award Ref: 13 Applicant: Sandbank Community Development Trust Recommended Award: £473.99 Project Summary: Funding would be used to purchase a phase contrast microscope to enhance microscopic imagery for biodiversity research and citizen science at Holy Loch Nature Reserve. Recommendation: Award Ref: 14 Applicant: Bute Junior Agricultural Club Recommended Award: £1,220.67 Project Summary: The grant would support the purchase of hockey equipment and travel costs to enable club members to host sports nights and attend local and off-island tournaments. Recommendation: Partial Award Ref: 15 Applicant: Bute Shinty Club Recommended Award: £1,220.67 Project Summary: Funding would provide shinty equipment and cover pitch and hall hire to host children’s open days and promote youth participation in the sport. Recommendation: Partial Award Ref: 16 Applicant: Innellan and Toward Family Centre SCIO Recommended Award: £1,220.67 Project Summary: The grant would be used towards the creation of a community orchard through the purchase of fruit trees, gardening tools, and a canvas bell tent for outdoor activities. Recommendation: Partial Award Page 62
Page 63
Ref: 17 Applicant: Lochgoilhead Climbing Club Recommended Award: £1,220.67 Project Summary: Support would be used towards climbing coaching courses, equipment, instructor fees, and transport and entry costs for trips to climbing venues for local children. Recommendation: Partial Award Ref: 18 Applicant: Sandbank Village Hall Recommended Award: £1,220.66 Project Summary: Funding would be used towards roof repairs, hot water installation, energy-efficient lighting and heating, and improved external safety and security lighting. Recommendation: Partial Award Ref: 19 Applicant: Cowal Walking Festival Association Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: The grant would support venue hire, leaflet distribution, and minibus hire to help deliver the Cowal Walking Festival and promote health and wellbeing through community walks. Recommendation: Partial Award Ref: 20 Applicant: Cowal Choral Club Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: Support would fund musical instruction, costumes, set hire, space hire, marketing, and insurance for the Cowal Choral Club’s 2025 Christmas Concert and 2026 Musical Show. Recommendation: Partial Award Ref: 21 Applicant: Lochgoilhead Fiddle Workshop Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: Funding would provide fortnightly fiddle tuition and venue hire from September to June, supporting accessible traditional music education in the wider Strachur area. Recommendation: No Award Ref: 22 Applicant: Voices of Argyll C.I.C Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: The grant would support musician fees, workshops, travel, accommodation, venue hire, marketing, and filming for a community music tour. Recommendation: No Award Page 63
Page 64
Ref: 23 Applicant: Cowal Home Education Inclusion Project Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: Support would cover hall hire, activity materials, snacks, entry fees, travel costs, and a first aid kit for educational and community activities for home-educated children. Recommendation: No Award Ref: 24 Applicant: Castle House Museum Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: Funding would be used to provide sensory backpacks and support ‘quiet time’ visits to create an inclusive, welcoming museum experience for children and young people. Recommendation: No Award Ref: 25 Applicant: Starter Packs Plus Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: The grant would provide basic household essentials such as kettles, toasters, bedding, and cleaning items for newly housed vulnerable individuals. Recommendation: No Award Ref: 26 Applicant: Cowal Community Orchestra Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: Support would fund instruments and musical director preparation time to develop musical skills, promote well-being, and support community engagement. Recommendation: No Award Ref: 27 Applicant: South Cowal Trust Recommended Award: £0 Project Summary: Funding would cover start-up costs including a website, accountancy advice, Sage training, insurance, and a letterbox to help establish a new organisation. Recommendation: No Award Page 64
Page 65
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE & COWAL AREA COMMITTEE CHIEF EXECUTIVES UNIT 2 September 2025 SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - Monitoring of Projects Funded 2023/24 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide information on the impact and spend of funding awarded to community projects from the council’s Supporting Communities Fund in 2023/24. 1.2 17 constituted, not-for-profit community organisations were awarded funding in 2023/24 from the Supporting Communities Fund. Projects were required to spend their funds within 18 months and to submit an end of project report outlining the benefits of the fund to the project and providing information on any remaining funds at end of project. 1.3 Members are asked to consider the contents of this report which contains a summary of the information supplied by organisations. 1.4 Members are asked to note that no funds have been identified as remaining at end of projects. Page 65 Agenda Item 11
Page 66
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL BUTE & COWAL AREA COMMITTEE CHIEF EXECUTIVES UNIT 2 September 2025 SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - Monitoring of Projects Funded 2023/24 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 This report highlights the positive outcomes for communities in Bute and Cowal through the allocation of the Council’s Supporting Communities Fund in the 2023/24 round of funding. 2.2 A total of £33,052.09 (£38,228.09 including Levelling Up monies specifically for climate change focused projects) was awarded to 17 community organisations in 2023/24. Organisations have 18 months to spend the funds and up to two months from the end of the project to complete and return a project monitoring report. 2.3 No funds were identified as remaining at the end of projects. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Bute and Cowal Area Committee note: 3.1 The positive contribution of the Supporting Communities Fund detailed in section 4 and within the attached table. 3.3 That no funds are due to be returned. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 The funded projects supported a total of approximately 5,883 people within the Bute and Cowal area to participate in a variety of activities including outdoor activities, sports, music and mental health. For example: • Outdoor activities at Friends of Glenan Woods, building bird and bat boxes, improving biodiversity of wildlife and accessibility for visitors. • Gardening and cooking activities were hosted at the Dunoon Foodbank Page 66
Page 67
and ARC recovery. • Hunters Quay Community Council refurbished seafront benches and erected two new picnic tables. • Kayak instructor training and specialist kayak equipment have enabled Toward Seasports to boost membership and inclusivity. • Music dance and movement workshops at Waterbaby Arts built confidence as the group rejoined after the pandemic. • Bute Community Band staged their Christmas Concert with new percussion and sheet music. • Mental health activities at Bute Community Land Company included art, photography and yoga classes, theatre and a Scottish History event. Many of the projects supported noted increased community participation and increased numbers of volunteers. Feedback from projects showed the benefits experienced by particular groups in the community: • “…increase confidence in people in recovery…” • “…people who were impacted by social exclusion and included people over 65 giving them a sense of meaning and pride in working together.” • “…enabled the young community to experience playing for a large audience.” • “…help people of all ages to explore the heritage of their town…” • “…garden access for people with no garden…” • “…old people felt lonely as they had no-one to talk to every day – but this has helped…” • “…able to develop stronger networks of support for women starting new businesses…” • “…The main impact of the project in the short term is that the consultation and engagement process has opened up communication between local community groups…” • “…teachers have observed how much more confident the pupils are, their self-esteem has improved…” 4.2 The attached table provides more detail from individual projects funded. 4.3 16 grant recipients have submitted an End of Project Monitoring Report. 4.4 No funds have been identified as remaining from the projects spend. Page 67
Page 68
2022/23 SCF Round of Funding No Organisation Project Funded Award End of Project Achievements No. of people in communities benefitting 1 ARC Addictions Recovery Café cooking classes and refreshments for 30 people for 52 weeks as well as plants, seeds and protective clothing £2,500.00 Food is a central human point of connection and we use this as an incentive for engagement and empowerment. Some of our volunteers had never made soup before. The volunteer garden project provided an opportunity to contribute to the wellbeing of the community and increase confidence in people in recovery. 77 2 Bullwood Nature Trail horticultural supplies, art materials and building materials to effect repairs, ready to welcome new users from mental health and school groups £2,500.00 A team worked together to: Put a new metal roof on a workshop, grow vegetables in a polytunnel, create leaf mould from fallen leaves, clear and maintain paths and terraces, build and mount bird and owl boxes, clean out and restore a pond, plant willow trees, maintain grass areas and driveway. This involved people who were impacted by social exclusion and included people over 65 giving them a sense of meaning and pride in working together. 41 3 Bute Community Band percussion instruments and band uniform for the players and music stands, banners and music costs for the band as well as some sound and video engineering to support the work of the band for this year’s Christmas Concert £2,157.04 We were able to involve the high school swing band in our concert which enabled the young community to experience playing for a large audience. It also provided members of the band who suffer with their mental health to work towards a target at one of the busiest times of the year. 165 4 Bute Community Land Company sessional trainers to provide a varied programme of arts such as yoga and photography as well as events and activities in Bute £2,500.00 Our project was a direct benefit to the individuals who attended, with unanimously positive feedback from all of our events. Bute Community Forest has built up strong community bonds and has become known for delivering enjoyable events in our forest for all demographics. We have focused on events we know we can 466 Page 68
Page 69
2022/23 SCF Round of Funding Community Forest deliver well with our smaller team to ensure our attendees are left impressed with what their community forest can offer them. 5 Comann Nam Parant Comphail gaelic-speaking teachers in drama, singing and Bookbug, venue and refreshment costs as well as crafts equipment in order to deliver a Gaelic immersion day £1,300.00 No report received 6 Cowal Open Studios sessional fees and art materials to enable art workshops to be delivered to 46 young people £2,488.00 The Imaginart project was a resounding success. The young people responded to the arts workshops with enthusiasm and willingness to engage and the project partners were highly supportive. Workshops were mostly delivered in partnership with Dunoon Grammar School Learning Centre where young people have mild to complex learning needs. 215 7 Dunoon & Cowal Heritage Trust expenses of a graduate trainee in order to create new outreach and teaching resources for the museum with some travel expenses to cover their delivery £2,500.00 This funding grant allowed us to create two loan boxes- one a ‘memory box’ themed around the 1950/60s, and the other a school loans box that links with CofE objectives for local schools. The aims of this project have been met, with involvement from varying age groups across the community. The aims were threefold: to bring people together through discussion of Museum objects, help people of all ages to explore the heritage of their town, and to break down barriers to involvement with the Museum as a venue. 207 8 Dunoon Burgh Hall Trust co-ordinator costs, venue hire and film licenses to enable the delivery of a diverse arts programme to 45 persons from vulnerable groups £2,500.00 We presented 12 friendly film screenings accompanied by complimentary refreshments and plenty of chat between participants and our friendly team of volunteers. We delivered an additional 4 arts workshops with professional artists and 2 live music sessions for this group. All participants were observed to clearly enjoy the sessions and reported having had a positive experience and feeling “uplifted” by the experience. 166 9 Dunoon Foodbank materials to build raised £2,500.00 The project created garden access for people with no garden 95 Page 69
Page 70
2022/23 SCF Round of Funding beds and grow vegetables to benefit the users of the foodbank and the general community access and tuition to help people grow fruit and veg. The produce was used for cookery lessons and meals in the foodbank. 12 people worked on the garden and 16 people attended cookery lessons. 10 Friends of Glenan Wood (shared prosperity) transport costs for volunteers, marquee hire, tools and materials for accessibility and biodiversity improvements to the woods as well as summer events for the community £2,500.00 Volunteer activities have increased and the number of community events undertaken has also increased. These are a result of the funding provided to support Forest Ranger activities and improving the ability to increase donations with the introduction of our donation box. The Wood can now be considered a community woodland as it now holds events for other areas and events. We advertised via eventbrite in 2023 and since, a full calendar of public events and associated booking system has been available via the 'What's On' section of our website. We have also advertised a yearly programme for volunteer opportunities. 1508 11 Fyne Futures volunteer expenses, training and a delivery of 4 food sharing celebrations in order to maintain the Incredible Edible sites and pilot a new foraging programme £2,500.00 We were able to continue to support our volunteers at Incredible Edible sites and provide a light lunch for 2 work parties a week throughout the year. This equated to 81 work parties being held throughout the time of the project and 444 participants in total covering all events. This worked out an average of 5 volunteers per 2 hour session so based on living wage this equated to £9,720 of economic benefit for the island. We also hosted 4 seasonal food celebrations. 87 12 Hunters Quay Community Council (shared prosperity) two new picnic tables and paint for the renovation of the existing benches on the front at Hunter’s Quay £701.00 Speaking to people in the area – 900 people live here but there is nowhere people could sit – people have told me that they especially old people felt lonely as the had no-one to talk to every day – but this has helped and during the summer months the picnics tables get used. There is a large proportion of older people here, but this is also to benefit the community as a whole and to make the area attractive for tourists that arrive at the ferry terminal. 900 Page 70
Page 71
2022/23 SCF Round of Funding 13 POP Shop Enterprises CIC accredited training courses, one to one support sessions and talks by social entrepreneurs for to up to 24 people as well as associated costs, such as venue, catering and marketing £2,450.00 This project aimed to build the enterprise capacity of the community at a local level through the provision of training, talks and one to one enterprise support sessions delivered in Dunoon. Over the course of the project, we were able to develop stronger networks of support for women starting new businesses in the local area through the provision of training, talks and events. We know from feedback that people appreciated the professional guidance, but importantly, benefitted from having peers to talk to. Peer support is informal support but can help people working in relative isolation to feel more connected and a better networked by learning from others with similar experiences to help overcome practical and psychological challenges that can become barriers to work. 283 14 Sandbank Community Development Trust Limited costs to produce a new climate and community action plan including survey materials, design and printing and distribution of same £1,975.00 The main impact of the project in the short term is that the consultation and engagement process has opened up communication between local community groups that had previously been working largely in silos. There is now a shared vision for Sandbank’s future, which has come directly from the work on the CAP. 1500 15 Scenic Sandbank start-up costs including the costs of tools, seeds and bulbs in order to create the first raised beds for production £2,500.00 The garden is still under development as there have been delays trying to get the utilities on site. However, we have been able to take the garden out to various group and the local primary school using the funds from both SLF and Supporting Communities Fund which enabled us to buy tools compost etc and take them into the community while the site is still under development. This has meant that we have built an even stronger volunteer base that now is involved at a greater level in the community garden planning for this year. 108 16 Toward Seasports Club SCIO training courses for 6 volunteers to become kayak leaders or coaches, and a £2,157.05 The project aimed to provide training and assessment for volunteer sea kayak instructors, leaders and coaches and to purchase of two secondhand high-volume hybrid kayaks for use on 31 Page 71
Page 72
2022/23 SCF Round of Funding contribution towards a hybrid kayak the sea and in pool sessions. We achieved these aims. The provision of training has had additional benefits enjoyed by a wider range of club members. 17 Waterbaby Arts SCIO 16 creative movement workshops delivered to 25 persons with additional support needs and some associated travel costs £2,500.00 There has been a huge impact on all participants, as teachers have observed how much more confident the pupils are, their self esteem has improved, as they have an activity they love and look forward to. They are also less isolated within school, as they have shared this experience with young people similar to them and can begin to carry on these friendships outside the project. 34 Page 72
Page 73
5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The project monitoring form has a section asking for comments on the grant process. Not all applicants have completed this section but of those received, the comments have largely been very positive. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy: None 6.2 Financial: The report sets out the expenditure from the Bute & Cowal area 2023/24 budget for the allocation of Supporting Communities Fund 6.3 Legal: None 6.4 HR: None 6.5 Customer Service: None 6.6 Risk: None 6.7 Climate Change: 2 of the funded projects addressed climate change 6.8 Fairer Scotland Duty: Compliant with policy 6.9 Equalities - protected characteristics: 6.10 Consumer Duty: None 6.11 Island Communities: 3 of the funded projects were on Bute 6.12 Children’s Rights and Wellbeing: 3 of the projects were delivered for children and young people Chief Executive – Pippa Milne Policy Lead - Cllr Mark Irvine Communities and Partnership Manager – Rona Gold 2 September 2025 For further information contact: Community Development Officers: Ailie Law on 01546 604707 / ailie.law@argyll-bute.gov.uk. Julie Fish on 01369708669 / Julie.Fish2@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 73
Page 74
This page is intentionally left blank
Page 75
Bute and Cowal Area Committee Workplan 2025-2026 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/ consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment September 2025 2 September 2025 Area Performance Report – FQ1 2025/26 Customer Support Services – Kay Owen/ Claire McAllister Quarterly Report 7 August 2025 2 September 2025 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Roads and Infrastructure – Mark Calder Quarterly Report 7 August 2025 2 September 2025 Supporting Communities Fund Applications 2025/26 Chief Executive’s Unit – Suzanne Mason Annual Report 7 August 2025 2 September 2025 Supporting Communities Fund 2023/24 End of Project Monitoring Reports Chief Executive’s Unit – Suzanne Mason Annual Report 7 August 2025 2 September 2025 Recycling and Recovery Performance Roads and Infrastructure – John Blake Annual Report 7 August 2025 2 September 2025 CHARTS (Argyll and the Isles) Seymour Adams Annual Report 7 August 2025 2 September 2025 Clachan Flats Windfarm Trust: Appointment of Trustee Legal and Regulatory Support – Melissa Stewart As Required 7 August 2025 Page 75 Agenda Item 12
Page 76
Bute and Cowal Area Committee Workplan 2025-2026 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/ consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment December 2025 2 December 2025 Area Performance Report – FQ2 2025/26 Customer Support Services – Kay Owen/ Claire McAllister Quarterly Report 7 November 2025 2 December 2025 Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Performance Report Health and Social Care Partnership – Charlotte Craig Annual Report 7 November 2025 2 December 2025 Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds Legal and Regulatory Support – Stuart McLean Annual Report 7 November 2025 2 December 2025 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Roads and Infrastructure – Mark Calder Quarterly Report 7 November 2025 2 December 2025 The Third Marquis of Bute’s Silver Wedding Dowry Fund Legal and Regulatory Support – Stuart McLean Annual Report (If Required) 7 November 2025 2 December 2025 The Provost’s fund (Bute) – Award Recommendations Legal and Regulatory Support – Stuart McLean Annual Report (If Required) 7 November 2025 2 December 2025 Fyne Homes Update Fyne Homes – Chief Executive Annual Report 7 November 2025 Page 76