Agenda reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 2 June 2022
Back to Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee — 2 June 2022 and its agenda
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Argyll and Bute Council Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheal Agus Bhòid Executive Director: Douglas Hendry Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 602127 Fax: 01546 604435 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 26 May 2022 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE will be held in the COUNCIL CHAMBER, KILMORY, LOCHGILPHEAD AND ON A HYBRID MEETING BASIS BY MS TEAMS ATTENDANCE on THURSDAY, 2 JUNE 2022 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 (Pages 3 - 8) Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee held on 3 March 2022 4. KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FQ4 - 2021/22 - DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH & ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES (Pages 9 - 30) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services 5. ROADS CAPITAL RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME 2022/23 UPDATE (Pages 31 - 42) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 6. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS - COUNCIL FUNDED (Pages 43 - 50) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 7. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS - EXTERNALLY FUNDED (Pages 51 - 62) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 8. DIGITAL EXCLUSION FUND - UPDATE (Pages 63 - 72) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth Public Document Pack
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9. ECONOMIC STRATEGY AND RECOVERY PLAN UPDATE (Pages 73 - 106) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth 10. UPDATE ON STAYCATION PROPOSALS (Pages 107 - 116) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth 11. TRANSPORT FOR STRATHCLYDE: A NEW PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK (Pages 117 - 120) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth/Roads and Infrastructure Services REPORT FOR NOTING 12. ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE WORK PLAN 2022/23 (Pages 121 - 122) Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee Councillor John Armour Councillor Jan Brown Councillor Garret Corner Councillor Robin Currie (Chair) Councillor Mark Irvine Councillor Andrew Kain (Vice-Chair) Councillor Donald Kelly Councillor Jim Lynch Councillor John McAlpine Councillor Tommy MacPherson Councillor Ian James MacQuire Councillor Luna Martin Councillor Ross Moreland Councillor Gary Mulvaney Councillor William Sinclair Councillor Andrew Vennard Councillor Peter Wallace Contact: Fiona McCallum Tel: 01546 604392
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MINUTES of MEETING of ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE held in the BY MS TEAMS on THURSDAY, 3 MARCH 2022 Present: Councillor Robin Currie (Chair) Councillor Rory Colville Councillor John Armour Councillor Donald Kelly Councillor David Kinniburgh Councillor Sir Jamie McGrigor Councillor Jean Moffat Councillor Gary Mulvaney Councillor Alastair Redman Councillor Alan Reid Councillor Andrew Vennard Councillor Anne Horn Councillor Jim Lynch Also Present: Councillor Elaine Robertson Attending: Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director Fergus Murray, Head of Development and Economic Growth Jim Smith, Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services Stuart McLean, Committee Manager 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Bobby Good and Councillor Roddy McCuish. The Chair ruled and the Committee agreed to re-order the items of business on the agenda and to take item 6 of the agenda (Campbeltown Flood Protection Scheme Business Case) after item 14 of the agenda (Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee Work Plan) as consideration of this item would require the exclusion of the press and public from the meeting. The Chair ruled and the Committee agreed to hear a presentation from the Head of Development and Economic Growth ‘Development And Economic Growth An Overview Of Outputs’ as urgent business. The Chair advised that for the continuity of the agenda that the item would be heard immediately after item 3 of the agenda (Minutes). 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest. 3. MINUTES The Minutes of the meeting of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee held on 2 December 2021 were approved as a correct record. 4. DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH - AN OVERVIEW OF OUTPUTS The Committee heard an informative presentation from the Head of Development and Economic Growth outlining the recent work of the Development and Economic Growth Service. The Committee were given the opportunity for questions. Page 3 Agenda Item 3
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Decision The Environment Development and Infrastructure Committee noted the content of the presentation. (Reference: Presentation by the Head of Development and Economic Growth, submitted) 5. KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FQ3 2021/22 The Committee gave consideration to a report presenting the financial quarter 3 2021/22 key performance indicators for the Development and Economic Growth and Roads and Infrastructure Services. Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee noted the FQ3 2021/22 key performance indicator reports as presented. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services dated 24 January 2022, submitted) 6. ROADS CAPITAL RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME The Committee gave consideration to a report providing detail of the proposed roads reconstruction programme for 2022/23. The programme was initially based on an allocation of £5.378M which had been increased to £8.0M at the Budget Meeting on 24 February 2022. Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee – 1. Endorsed the proposed programme of capital works for 2022/23. 2. Agreed that details of each area committee’s programme would be forwarded on to individual Elected Members. 3. Agreed that the full programme together with an update on delivery would be presented to the June Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure dated 25 February 2022, submitted) 7. WASTE PPP AND LANDFILL BAN COMPLIANCE - PROGRESS UPDATE ON OPTIONS The Committee gave consideration to a report providing an update on progress of the options to identify the most suitable option for the future of the Waste Public Private Partnership (PPP) contract to enable officers to support compliance with the landfill ban and which would provide overall best value to Argyll and Bute Council. Decision Page 4
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The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee – 1. Endorsed the report and the approach being taken to determine the most appropriate option for the Council regarding waste disposal. 2. Noted that a further report detailing an options appraisal would come forward to the September Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee, providing information on the preferred option and outlining any capital and revenue cost implications. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure dated 11 January 2022, submitted) 8. ARGYLL AND BUTE COVID 19 RECOVERY: RESTART, RECOVER AND RENEW: DELIVERING AND RESETTING OUR RECOVERY STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN The Committee gave consideration to a report providing details of the work undertaken to recover from the Covid 19 pandemic. The report outlined actions and achievements to date and the medium to long term priorities to support the area recovering from the impact of the pandemic to the “new normal”. Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee noted the content of the submitted report and the attached appendix. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth dated 12 January 2022, submitted) 9. SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT TOWN CENTRE FUND AND PLACE BASED INVESTMENT FUND UPDATE The Committee gave consideration to a report providing an update on projects and funding associated with two capital programmes funded by the Scottish Government: the 2019-2021 Town Centre Fund and the 2021-2026 Place Based Investment Fund. Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee noted the content of the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth dated 18 January 2022, submitted) 10. TRANSFORMATIONAL PROJECTS & REGENERATION TEAM - LARGE SCALE PROJECT UPDATE REPORT The Committee gave consideration to a report providing an update on progress of the large scale, externally funded project work of the Transformational Projects and Regeneration Team which also highlighted key issues that could impact on the successful delivery of projects. Decision Page 5
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The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee noted the progress contained within the submitted report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth dated 18 January 2022, submitted) 11. STRATEGIC TRANSPORT PROJECTS REVIEW 2 - CONSULTATION RESPONSE The Committee gave consideration to a report outlining a proposed response to the draft second Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2) for Scotland. The review would inform Scottish Ministers decisions on transport investment in Scotland for the next 20 years (2022-2042). Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee – 1. Noted the transport intervention within the draft Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2) that were referenced to Argyll and Bute. 2. Approved the enclosed response to the draft STPR2 consultation. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth dated 27 February 2022, submitted) 12. TRANSPORT FOR STRATHCLYDE: A NEW PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK The Committee gave consideration to a report advising of correspondence received from the Chair of Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) which sought support from Local Authorities for the vision and direction detailed within “Transport for Strathclyde: A New Public Transport Network”. Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee – 1. Noted the letter from Councillor Dr Martin Bartos, Chair of SPT. 2. Agreed to defer this matter to a future Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in 2022, which would afford the new Council when formed, following the Scottish Local Government Elections in May 2022, and Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee to take a view on this matter. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth dated February 2022, submitted) 13. CEMETERY ASSET UPDATE REPORT An update report following a consultation on cemetery provision and policy that was carried out in early 2020, which had unfortunately clashed with the pandemic, was before the Committee for noting. Page 6
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Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee noted the content of the submitted report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure dated February 2022, submitted) 14. ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE WORKPLAN The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee work plan was before the Committee for noting. Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee noted the content of the work plan. (Reference: Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee work plan dated February 2022, submitted) The Committee resolved in terms of Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to exclude the press and public for the following item of business on the grounds that it was likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 9 of Part 1 of Schedule 7A to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. 15. CAMPBELTOWN FLOOD PROTECTION SCHEME - FULL BUSINESS CASE The Committee gave consideration to a report providing an update on progress with the Campbeltown Flood Protection Scheme, including the funding position, and which made recommendations in order for the project to progress. Decision The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee agreed the recommendation contained within the submitted report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure dated 25 February 2022, submitted) Page 7
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES 2 JUNE 2022 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FQ4 2021/22 – DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The Council’s Performance and Improvement Framework (PIF) sets out the presentation process for regular performance reporting. 1.2 This paper presents the Environment, Development and Infrastructure (EDI) Committee with the FQ4 2021/22 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Development and Economic Growth and Roads and Infrastructure Services. 1.3 It is recommended that the EDI Committee reviews and scrutinises the FQ4 2021/22 KPI Report as presented. Page 9 Agenda Item 4
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES 2 JUNE 2022 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FQ2 2021/22 – DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1. The Council’s Performance and Improvement Framework (PIF) sets out the presentation process for regular performance reporting. 2.2 This paper presents the Environment, Development and Infrastructure (EDI) with the FQ4 2021/22 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Development and Economic Growth and Roads and Infrastructure Services, as agreed by Council. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 That members review and scrutinise the FQ4 2021/22 KPI Reports as presented. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 To ensure appropriate monitoring and scrutiny of performance management during the Council’s Covid-19 response and recovery the ELT have identified a Council-wide suite of 85 Success Measures detailed within the Service Plans. From within the Service Plans some measures have been identified as Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 2021/22, and are currently reported quarterly to the appropriate Strategic Committees. Pyramid remains ‘live’ with all Success Measures aligned to Service Plans and updated as agreed. 4.2 Attached are the KPIs FQ4 2021/22 that are relevant to the EDI Committee (Appendix 1). 5.0 CONCLUSION Page 10
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5.1 Simplifying and focusing the performance reports in this manner is a proactive approach to help minimise back office function/non-essential activities whilst maintaining a level of service that supports scrutiny, performance monitoring and out statutory duties. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy: None 6.2 Financial: None 6.3 Legal: The Council has a duty to deliver best value under the Local Government in Scotland Act 2003 6.4 HR: None 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: None 6.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics: None 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty: None 6.5.3 Islands: None 6.6 Climate Change: None 6.7 Risk: Ensures that all our performance information is reported in a balanced manner 6.8 Customer Service: None Kirsty Flanagan Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services Policy Leads: Councillor Robin Currie – Economy and Rural Growth Councillor Andrew Kain – Roads and Transport Councillor Kieron Green – Planning and Regulatory Services Councillor Ross Moreland – Climate Change and Environment Services Councillor Liz McCabe – islands and Business Development Councillor Gary Mulvaney – Finance and Commercial Services 25 April 2022 For further information contact: Jane Fowler, Head of Customer Support Services Tel: 01546 604466 Page 11
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APPENDICES Appendix 1 – Key Performance Indicators for - Development and Economic Growth FQ4 2021/22 Roads and Infrastructure Services FQ4 2021/22 Page 12
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FQ4 2021/22 Key Performance Indicators for Development and Economic Growth Indicator: DEG102_01-Protecting health of our people through the delivery of the formally approved Joint Health Protection Plan (2020/2022 plan). Why measure this? To monitor progress against the plan, to target our own and, multiagency work with partners, and to take corrective actions where appropriate. This indicator is on track to a revised plan. Commentary With the relaxation of Covid restrictions, the focus has been to continue promoting Covid guidance to business and reinstating the wide range of public health services delivered by environmental health. These have included responding to service requests which have increased by 40% in the last 2 years, restarting our food program, responding to the UK avian influenza outbreak, listeria in smoked fish and redesigning our strategy for blue-green algae in inland waters, where semi-permanent signage is to be erected rather than temporary signage used previously, and responding to increased demands of events and other activities associated with society recovering from the pandemic Target: Annual FQ4: On Track To Revised Plan. Actual: Annual FQ4: On Track To Revised Plan Green. Benchmark: No Benchmark. Graph illustration of performance:- DEG102_01-Protecting health of our people through the delivery of the formally approved Joint Health Protection Plan (2020/2022 plan). Appendix 1 Page 13
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Indicator: DEG103_01-Number of new affordable homes completed per annum. Why measure this? We aim to have a good supply of affordable housing across the area. This will help keep people in the area and attract inward migration. This is a core requirement of the Local Housing Strategy and Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP). This indicator is above target. The Target and Actual are cumulative totals for the financial year. Commentary During FQ4 there were a total of 45 affordable housing completions: 8 units at Phase 3, Imereval, Isle of Islay 37 units at Phase 3, Dunbeg The previous LHS set a minimum target of 550 new affordable homes to be delivered via the Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) by March 2021. Due to the unforeseen and unprecedented impact of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020/21, the final year of the LHS, development activity was halted for several months and even once the new build programme was re-started ongoing constraints and restrictions led to slippage with a number of key projects, including the flagship development of 300 new homes at Dunbeg. As a consequence, the 5 year LHS target was not achieved; nevertheless, despite the extremely challenging circumstances, a very credible total of 459 new homes were actually completed, representing 84% of the Housing Supply Target. A significant number of additional units were onsite at the year end and will complete in the first year of this new LHS. This positive progress was achieved through effective partnership working between the Council, RSLs, the Scottish Government, planners, private developers, and local communities. The total investment to deliver 459 units over five years amounted to £72.6m. The primary resources included the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme(AHSP) (with £53.459m invested in completed new homes over the last five years, and £66m spend in total; which is 57% higher than the AHSP spend for the previous LHS); the Council’s Strategic Housing Fund (a total of £9.354m invested over the period, excluding empty homes spend); plus RSL investment via their private finance borrowing capacity. The majority of the new build homes were for social rent, however, 5% were made available for other forms of subsidised tenure such as new supply shared equity. The majority of these new homes were provided by local RSLs: ACHA, Fyne Homes, Dunbritton, and West Highland (in association with Link Group). Almost 35% of the new builds (159) were located in Lorn, and 19% (87) were in Helensburgh & Lomond; while Mid Argyll and Cowal both had 15% (68 and 67 respectively). 12% (56) were on Islay, Jura & Colonsay; 4% (19) were on Mull; and there were 2 units on Coll & Tiree, plus one refurbished property in Kintyre. Target: Annual FQ4:145. Actual: Annual FQ4:145 Green. Benchmark: 110. Appendix 1 Page 14
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Graph illustration of performance:- DEG103_01-Number of new affordable homes completed per annum. Appendix 1 Page 15
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Indicator: DEG103_02-The percentage of positive homeless prevention interventions (Prevent 1). Why measure this? We personalise preventative measures to help people access a housing option that meets their needs. This statutory measure recognises the importance to prevent homelessness. This indicator is above target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. Commentary This target is focused on the effective prevention work carried out by Housing staff and during the period of the Covid-19 pandemic the Housing Service has continued to provide housing advice and assistance via a virtual service. During FQ4 this has resulted in positive interventions for 71% of households seeking advice. Of the remaining 29%: 21% made a homeless application, 1% lost contact, 4% Not Known and 3% Moved in with Family or Friends. Positive interventions by Housing staff enabled 190 (87%) of households to remain in their own accommodation, 22 households (10%) secured an RSL tenancy and 6 (3%) households secured a private rented tenancy. The number of households requiring to make a homeless application per area: Bute and Cowal 30 (26%) of households seeking advice within this area, Helensburgh & Lomond 4 (33%) of households seeking advice within this area, Oban, Lorn and the Isles 15 (11%) of households seeking advice within this area, Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay 15 (36%) of households seeking advice within this area. Target: Quarterly FQ4: 50%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 71% Green. Benchmark: 50%. Graph illustration of performance:- DEG103_02-The percentage of positive homeless prevention interventions (Prevent 1). Appendix 1 Page 16
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Indicator: DEG103_03-The number of empty properties brought back in to use per annum. Why measure this? We want to reduce homelessness, improve affordability and help prevent dereliction. We aim to do this by improving the housing supply. This indicator is above target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. Commentary This measure is reported annually and has a target of 25 homes brought back into use. A total of 38 homes were brought back into use during 2021/22:- Bute & Cowal 15, Helensburgh & Lomond 6, Oban, Lorn & Isles 11, Mid Argyll, Kintyre & Islay 6. Argyll and Bute Council's Empty Homes Team picked up the highly sought after ‘Outstanding Team Award’ at the March 2022 Scottish Empty Homes Awards. The awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding work and achievements of individuals and organisations in reviving empty homes across Scotland. The Council has enjoyed previous success at the awards and had five entries shortlisted as finalists this year, including two out of the three finalists in the Best before/after and Best Old Wreck categories. Target: Annual FQ4: 25. Actual: Annual FQ4: 38 Green. Benchmark: 25. Graph illustration of performance:- DEG103_03-The number of empty properties brought back in to use per annum. Appendix 1 Page 17
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Indicator: DEG105_01-Respond to Building Warrant applications within 20 days. Why measure this? Providing a prompt service helps support the local economy. This national target allows us to benchmark our performance. This indicator is above target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. Commentary This is one of the national performance measures for building standards in Scotland. In quarter 4, there has been an increase in performance of 3% to 96.9% which is well above the 80% target. This is excellent performance and has been achieved in a period where:- 1) There are vacancies in the team and some staff illness; 2) Building warrant numbers are lower that pre-pandemic figures (19/20 - 1795 applications; 20/21 - 1533 applications and 21/22 - 1595 applications); 3) Commercial income: East Lothian Council continued to use our services and we awaiting decision from Dundee City Council for work from May-July 22; 4) Dangerous building work continued across the area; 5) The team have prioritised work well, are predominately working from home and are using a variety of different means to undertake work (e.g. remote verification inspections etc.); 6) The national consumer survey has reported that consumer satisfaction levels in Argyll and Bute are well above the Scottish average. Target: Quarterly FQ4: 80.0%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 96.9% Green. Benchmark: 92.5%. Graph illustration of performance:- DEG105_01-Respond to Building Warrant applications within 20 days. Appendix 1 Page 18
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Indicator: DEG105_02-The percentage of Building Warrants and amendments issued within 6 days from receipt of all satisfactory information. Why measure this? Providing a prompt service helps support the local economy. This national target allows us to benchmark our performance. This indicator is above target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. Commentary This is a local performance measure as the national measure is 10 days, as opposed to 6 days. It is proposed that we now report on 10 days, so we can benchmark with our peers. Performance for 10 days is above target and in quarter 4, 97.7% of all applications were issued within target. This is excellent performance of the team and the use of remote verification inspections support this work. The situation has been assisted as building warrant numbers are lower than pre-pandemic levels (19/20 1795 applications; 20/21 1533 applications and 21/22 1595 applications). Target: Quarterly FQ4: 90.0%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 97.7% Green. Benchmark: No Benchmark. Graph illustration of performance:- DEG105_02-The percentage of Building Warrants and amendments issued within 6 days from receipt of all satisfactory information. Appendix 1 Page 19
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Indicator: DEG110_02-The number of new business start-ups supported. Why measure this? Topical or legislative workshops and/or advisory support is offered to new business start-ups. The advice given is free, impartial and confidential. This is a key driver to growing our economy. This indicator is above target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. Commentary The number of new businesses supported in FQ4 was 30 against a target of 19, taking year end to 135 against an annual target of 100. The significant increase in start-ups supported compared to last year (135 versus 92) is largely because advisers have now been able to follow up with the clients they supported with advice pre-start last financial year. In FQ3 & FQ4 last year limited follow up work could be undertaken as advisers were administering Scottish Government Covid grant support schemes. Start-ups supported by administrative area were as follows: • Bute and Cowal – 9 start-ups were supported against a quarterly target of 5. Year end is 32 against an annual target of 26 • Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands – 8 start-ups were supported against a quarterly target of 5. Year end is 39 against an annual target of 26 • Oban Lorn and the Isles - 4 start- ups were supported against a quarterly target of 4. Year end is 31 against an annual target of 22 • Helensburgh and Lomond – 9 start-ups were supported against a quarterly target of 5. Year end is 33 against an annual target of 26. Target: Annual FQ4:100. Actual: Annual FQ4:135 Green. Benchmark: No Benchmark. Graph illustration of performance:- DEG110_02-The number of new business start-ups supported. Appendix 1 Page 20
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Indicator: DEG110_03-The time it takes to determine ‘local’ planning applications is no longer than 10% above the national average. Why measure this? This indicates the efficiency of the Council's planning process. Prompt planning application decisions is a driver to support and help grow the local economy. This indicator has not met the Target, performance has improved since the last reporting period. Commentary The Development Management Team continues to operate with reduced resource. During FQ4 several legacy applications were finalised and determined, the majority of which were in the OLI team, a team which has carried vacancies and experienced staff turnover in posts over a prolonged period. The headline performance figure of an average of 15.5 weeks to determine these applications is badly skewed by 6 applications which took between 1 and 3 years to determine. Those taking in excess of a year can be broken down into areas, as follows:- OLI 3 applications varying between 1 year and 3 years; H&L 2 applications which took between 1 and 2 years; BAC 1 application which took 1.5 years. Steps are being taken to address vacancies across the Service and attempts are being made to recruit to vacant posts. The Service has also identified the likelihood of additional pressure on staff resource/capacity arising during 2022/23 through a significantly higher than normal caseload of major planning applications and S36 consultations with many of these items being delayed as a result of the pandemic but are now ready to be progressed. The Service will shortly be seeking to increase its professional staff resource by 2fte in response to expected demands upon the Major Applications Team. Target: Quarterly FQ4: 11.0 wks. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 15.5 wks Red. Benchmark: 10.7 wks. Graph illustration of performance:- DEG110_03-The time it takes to determine ‘local’ planning applications is no longer than 10% above the national average. Appendix 1 Page 21
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Indicator: DEG111_01-An enforcement intervention is performed in a consistent and fair manner with businesses fully supported throughout. Why measure this? This is a requirement of the Scottish Government's Regulators Strategic Code. We seek feedback from our customers on a range of issues including fairness and officer behaviours. This is also essential evidence for the Customer Services Excellence award. This indicator is above target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. Commentary A survey of businesses which were the subject to Covid enforcement interventions concluded that 95% of businesses were satisfied or very satisfied with the response of officers within Regulatory Services. Target: Annual FQ4: 80%. Actual: Annual FQ4: 95% Green. Benchmark: 77%. Graph illustration of performance:- DEG111_01-An enforcement intervention is performed in a consistent and fair manner with businesses fully supported throughout. Appendix 1 Page 22
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FQ4 2021/22 Key Performance Indicators for Roads and Infrastructure Services Indicator: RIS113_02-The percentage of roads in need of maintenance as defined by the annual survey. Why measure this? A safe and reliable road network is a key requirement to ensure our communities, businesses and the tourist sector can thrive. The Road Condition Index (RCI) is a set of indicators used across the whole of Scotland for the local road network. This indicator has not met the Target however, the latest data is 2020/21. Commentary The Road Condition Index (RCI) survey was last carried out in the latter part of 2021. For the second year in a row our network was not fully covered by the operating company due to Covid. Mull/Coll and Iona were not surveyed which is over 15% of our Network, therefore the 2021 survey result does not give a full picture of our network condition. The network will not be surveyed until November 2022 and if the full network is surveyed, we may well see a similar percentage decrease in results due to 2 years of missing parts of the network. We are now programming an £8M capital programme as well as a Strategic Timber Transport Scheme (STTS) bid of over £1M already submitted on top of this. Funding applications will be confirmed by STTS in FQ1 of 22/23. Target: Annual FQ4 2020/21: 54.4%. Actual: Annual FQ4 2020/21: 52.5% Red. Benchmark: 64.7% Taken from Road Condition Index. Graph illustration of performance:- RIS113_02-The percentage of roads in need of maintenance as defined by the annual survey. Appendix 1 Page 23
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Indicator: RIS113_03-The percentage of top priority routes that receive winter maintenance treatment that are completed on time (winter maintenance operations). Why measure this? To keep our road network safe and connected we strive to ensure that all top priority routes receive appropriate and timely winter weather treatment. This indicator is on track with no change in performance since the last reporting period. Commentary Staff are working within the Winter Policy Framework to ensure our roads network is safe to travel; our fleet runs are at 62 which is as per the budgeted 62 runs. Salt use is also on budget with a total of over 10,500 tonnes for the season so far. Target: Quarterly FQ4: 98.87%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 100% Green. Benchmark: 99.00%. Graph illustration of performance:- RIS113_03-The percentage of top priority routes that receive winter maintenance treatment that are completed on time (winter maintenance operations). Appendix 1 Page 24
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Indicator: RIS113_04-The percentage of Class 1 potholes that are repaired within 36 hours. Why measure this? Robust pot hole repairs help keep our communities and roads safe. Insurance claims against the council are also kept to a minimum whereby reducing avoidable spend. This indicator is above target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. Commentary There have been no reported Class 1 pot holes in this quarter - it should be noted that a class 1 pot hole is "a pot hole likely to cause imminent danger to road users". Target: Quarterly FQ4: 100%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 100% Green. Benchmark: No Benchmark. Graph illustration of performance:- RIS113_04-The percentage of Class 1 potholes that are repaired within 36 hours. Appendix 1 Page 25
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Indicator: RIS113_05-The percentage of street lighting fault repairs that are completed within 10 working days. Why measure this? Robust street lighting repairs help keep our communities and roads safe. This indicator is below target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Commentary The Street lighting Team were affected by Covid absences in the final quarter with all staff being off at some point due to Covid. This has been reflected in the performance figures which has dipped to 28% of faults being repaired within the 10 day period across the ABC area. A total of 241 faults are still outstanding at this time with staff prioritising where appropriate. In prioritising faults, staff will review the timescale of reported faults (i.e. clear oldest ones first) and review sections where there may be more than one light fault reported (i.e. a stretch of 5 lights as opposed to 1 light outage) Early indications show that the backlog of outstanding faults is being addressed for FQ1 2022/23 however this continues to be monitored. Target: Quarterly FQ4: 75%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 28% Red. Benchmark: 39%. Graph illustration of performance:- RIS113_05-The percentage of street lighting fault repairs that are completed within 10 working days. Appendix 1 Page 26
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Indicator: RIS114_01-The percentage of waste that is recycled, composted or recovered. Why measure this? We aim to reduce the amount of material going to landfill. Managing the percentage of waste that is recycled, composted or recovered helps to better understand landfill trends and, where possible, apply interventions to increase diversions from landfill. This indicator is above target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Commentary A total of 48.3% was recycled, composted and recovered (33.7% recycling/composting plus 14.7% recovery). Full year rate for 21/22 = 49.0% (35.4% recycling/composting plus 13.6% recovery). This is an improvement on the previous year (20/21) which was 45.1% (29.4% recycling/composting plus 15.7% recovery). During 20/21 year, recycling services were suspended for several months at the beginning of the Pandemic. The 21/22 figures indicate that recycling rates have returned to pre-Pandemic levels. Target: Quarterly FQ4: 45.0%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 48.3% Green. Benchmark: 46.7%. Graph illustration of performance:- RIS114_01-The percentage of waste that is recycled, composted or recovered. Appendix 1 Page 27
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Indicator: RIS114_03-Percentage of street cleanliness. Why measure this? Measured by Keep Scotland Beautiful to ensure that our local environment in kept clean and tidy. This indicator is above target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. Commentary The service has continued to deliver a very high standard of street cleanliness through the months of January, February and March. The role of the Amenity Wardens have had a key influence around littering and dog fouling to assist in maintaining the very good level of performance. Target: Quarterly FQ4: 73.0%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 79% Green. Benchmark: 67.0%. Graph illustration of performance:- RIS114_03-Percentage of street cleanliness. Appendix 1 Page 28
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Indicator: RIS115_01-Percentage of bins collected on time. Why measure this? The percentage of bins collected on time is something which our communities tell us is important. This indicator is above target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. Commentary In FQ4 99% of bins were collected on time. This is based solely on missed bin reports from customers and may not be totally reflective of service delivery on the ground since we don't record each and every individual collections. 18 bins are collected per minute for 5 full working days per week, with 275,000 bins collected per quarter. Notwithstanding this, Members will recall that there were a number of issues in the H&L area which resulted in some routes being delayed, this has now been fully dealt with and local Members were kept informed during the period of time referred to. Target: Quarterly FQ4: 96.0%. Actual: Quarterly FQ4: 99.0% Green. Benchmark: 99.0%. Graph illustration of performance:- RIS115_01-Percentage of bins collected on time. Appendix 1 Page 29
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 2 JUNE 2022 ROADS CAPITAL RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME 2022/23 UPDATE 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 Each year the Council through its annual budget setting process allocates budget for various capital projects. During this year’s budget setting process, the Council allocated £8m for roads reconstruction works. A programme of work was endorsed by the Environment, Development and Infrastructure (EDI) Committee in March 2022, following which information on projects for each administrative area was sent to Members. The March Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee report and appendix can be found at item 6 in the link appended below, for ease of reference. Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee - 3 March 2022 1.2 Since the programme was set, there have been significant international occurrences which have affected the prices of both fuel and bitumen. At the time of writing this report (early May) there has been a price increase of approximately 20% for coated roadstone. Whilst each of the planned schemes will be delivered, there will be less surfacing delivered than originally planned as a direct consequence of the price increase. 1.3 It is recommended that the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee: i. Endorses the approach taken to deliver the programme within budget given the price increases; and ii. Note that the 2022/23 footway programme will be reported to the September Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee. Page 31 Agenda Item 5
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 2 JUNE 2022 ROADS CAPITAL RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME 2022/23 UPDATE 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 This report provides details of the roads reconstruction programme for 2022/23. The programme was initially based on an allocation of £5.378m which was increased to £8.0m at the Council’s Budget Meeting on 24 February 2022. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee: i. Endorses the approach taken to deliver the programme within budget given the price increases; and ii. Note that the 2022/23 footway programme will be reported to the September Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 A programme of work was endorsed by the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in March 2022 following which information on projects for each administrative area was sent to Members. Since the programme was set there have been significant international occurrences which have affected the prices of both fuel and bitumen. At the time of writing (early May) there has been a price increase of approximately 20% for coated roadstone. Consideration was given to pausing the roads reconstruction programme however this was discounted on the basis that bitumen prices are not expected to reduce any time soon and more importantly pausing the programme would lead to an acceleration in deterioration which would ultimately cost more to correct. 4.2 In order to manage the programme within the budget, the following methodology has been applied, this has resulted in individual schemes being reduced in length: Page 32
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o Surface dressing schemes to remain as is, no reduction in length/area – this is to ensure that the road network receives protection from surface dressing and that maximum benefits are achieved, thereby reducing the need for reactive revenue maintenance. o Urban schemes where full streets are to be treated to remain as is (i.e. don’t leave 20m untreated on a 100m long street if it is all to a similar standard and requiring treatment). o Linier schemes (inlays/overlays etc) as part of a longer section of road to be reduced in length to ensure that the overall programme is managed within budget. o Scheme specification (material type, depth etc) to remain as is i.e. do not reduce thickness, keep with the original design to ensure good value is achieved and there is no compromise to whole life costs etc which shall be maintained by using the original design. 4.3 Whilst there will be a need to adjust some scheme costs based on the above, the four area allocations shall remain as approved - no redistribution of funds across areas. The 2023/24 programme will be developed based on the overall network requirements at that time – this may or may not include sections of network programmed for this year not treated due to increasing prices, depending on deterioration etc (continue with the asset management approach of programming sections of road where the treatment will deliver the best return in terms of value for money/whole life costs). The list of schemes taken through and endorsed by the March 2022 EDI Committee shall continue to be the list of schemes/road numbers delivered. Future Price Increase 4.4 There continues to be uncertainty regarding the future price of coated roadstone. Currently there is an expectation that there will be further price increases of around 20% over the coming weeks. If this is the case, then it is likely that we would be unable to carry out all projects in the current scheme unless further budget is allocated. The Council set aside a contingency for capital contract increases when it set the budget on 24 February 2022 and it may be that a request will come forward to access some of that funding. 4.5 Officers have submitted a grant application to the Strategic Timber Transport Scheme (STTS). This funding, should the grant be successful, will be used to match fund existing schemes on the council network where timber extraction was programmed to be carried out. Footway Programme 4.6 As part of the February budget setting process Members allocated £500k for footway works. Officers are developing an area based programme of works which will be reported to the September ED&I Committee. It is proposed that these works are delivered in the latter part of this financial year, as in previous Page 33
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years, allowing the carriageway works to be delivered during the more favorable weather window. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 This report provides and update on the roads reconstruction programme for 2022/23, details the price increase and advises that a report will be brought to the EDI Committee in September in respect of the footway programme. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy - works assessed and carried out under the current Roads Asset Management Plan. 6.2 Financial - programme will be based on capital allocation for year 2022/23. The increase in prices means that less work on the ground will be delivered than in previous years. 6.3 Legal – None known 6.4 HR - reconstruction works delivered by a combination of in-house roads operations team and sub-contractors. 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: None known 6.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics – None known 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – None known 6.5.3 Islands – None known 6.6 Climate Change – due regard will be given to climate change with a view to minimising any climate change impact and these will be considered as and when they arise. 6.7 Risk - completed works will reduce requirement to repair roads and will arrest the carriageway/footway deterioration. 6.8 Customer Service - overall improvement in road surfaces and the quality of driven journeys. Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads and Transport: Councillor Andrew Kain 20 May 2022 Page 34
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For further information contact: Jim Smith, Head of Roads and Infrastructure Service APPENDIXES Appendix 1 – Scheme List Page 35
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Roads Reconstruction Capital Programme £2,621,610 £2,972,850 AREA COMMITTEE PAPERS £1,406,200 £999,340 £8,000,000 MID-ARGYLL , KINTYRE and ISLANDS £2,621,610 Area Budget allocated Mid ARGYLL A819 Electric Cottage - Widening and re- alignmant PH1 & PH2 (CARRY OVER) £100,000 Wall repairs and site clearance only £46k - 2021-22 ( await access ) £100,000 District Total carry over 2021-22 A816 Cairnbaan Corner £30,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress U71 Park Road Ardrishaig £16,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress U54 Glenfyne Ardrishaig £16,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress UC20/21 Kilmartin School Loop £33,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress B8025 A816 Junt. - Cross roads £70,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress ROADS RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME 2022-23 MID-ARGYLL , KINTYRE and ISLANDS Programme 2022-23 Provisional £8.0M Scheme List 2022/23 - from Scheme Manager RCI & Strategic Schemes Additional Schemes from "Future Years". OBAN , LORN and the ISLES Programme 2022-23 BUTE and COWAL Programme 2022-23 Ver. 1 - 8th December 2021 ( Budget £5.0M provisional) Ver 2a - e Dec - Feb (Budget £5.0M plus £2M prov. ) Ver. 3a - d - 28th February 2022 ( Carry over £969K separate with Original Budget £4.378M + £2.653 Additional) HELENSBURGH and LOMOND Programme 2022-23 ANNUAL ALLOCATION Appendix 1 Page 37
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A816 Barrichbeyan Bends £150,000 Widen, Regulate & overlay (potential = STTS co funding £150k ) A819 Electric Cottage - Widening and re- alignmant PH2 (Balance funding) £50,000 Earthworks and carrigeway widening £50k plus £100k carryover = STTS £150K tbc B8024 A83 JCT - Achabraid £52,869 Geogrid & Overlay (poss. STTS Bid) + £200k SSE Full Scheme Possible £750k plus U Class Inveraray Housing Scheme £30,000 Inlay U18 Drimvore - Crinan Ferry £110,000 Structural Overlay / Patching B8025 Gallachoille £45,000 Pre SD Patching 2023 C38 Barmalloch £50,000 Structural Overlay / Patching C65 Inveraray Pier Carpark £35,000 Inlay C67 Lorne Street £31,402 Inlay £719,271 District Total 2022-23 Budget KINTYRE B8001 Claonaig Ferry - Stabilisation of slope - (CARRY OVER) £342,000 Design to be finalised £342,000 District Total carry over 2021-22 B8024 Glenralloch Ph 2 £71,000 Geogrid & Overlay (poss. STTS Bid additional £165k tbc ) - Clachan Village Loop £96,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress - Saddell £12,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress - New Peninver Housing Scheme £8,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress - Southend £59,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress U17 Gobbagrennan £100,000 Pre SD Patching B842 Southend £50,000 Overlay B843 Drumlemble £51,869 Structural Overlay / Patching U17 Gobbagrennan £90,000 Pre SD Patching U10 Glenbreckrie £70,000 Structural Overlay / Patching U18 Tangy £40,000 Structural Overlay / Patching U17 Calton Hill £50,000 inlay B843 Drumlemble ( ph2) £21,402 Drainage improvements Page 38
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£719,271 District Total 2022-23 Budget ISLANDS A846 East Lodge - Bridgend £125,000 Pre SD & Surface Dress A846 Jura Three Arch Bridge to Leargybreck £50,000 Pre SD Patching B8016 North of Laggan Bridge - Strengthening £210,442 Suspended Road over peat base formation A846 Bridgend £40,000 Inlay A847 Blue Houses - Mart Bridgend £36,000 Structural Patching & Drainage C17 Oa Road - Cragabus £74,626 Regulate & Overlay B8016 High Road - North of Glenegedale £89,000 Regulate + Overlay U45 Port Wemyss £40,000 Regulate + Overlay U27 & U54 Mansfield £76,000 Inlay £741,068 District Total 2022-23 Budget OBAN , LORN and the ISLES £2,972,850 Area Budget allocated LORN - Pulpit Rock - Oban - Inlay after S.L. (CARRY OVER) £40,000 £40,000 District Total carry over 2021-22 C29 Inverinan - Kilchrennan £50,000 Surface Dressing (Pre SD completed 2020-2021) - South Shian Roads £150,000 Surface Dressing (Pre SD completed 2020-2021) A816 Blaran £150,000 Embankment strengthening, C/W widening & overlay (STTS Bid) A816 Kilininver £100,000 Strengthening & overlay (STTS Bid) B845 Inveresragan £42,765 Regulate + Overlay C29 Loch Avich Narrachan £120,000 Strengthening & overlay C63 / C28 Bridge of Orchy £100,000 Regulate + Overlay ROADS RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME 2022-23 Page 39
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U37 Salachail £30,000 Regulate + Overlay Connell Village PH2 £40,000 Inlay U27 Airds Bay £20,000 Inlay U57 Ulva Road £20,000 Inlay U98 Villa Road £20,000 Inlay B845 Blarcreen - Bonawe £70,000 Regulate + Overlay A816 Soroba Road - Argyll Sq £50,000 Inlay U25 Muasdale Rd £40,000 Regulate + Overlay U63 Monument Hill £30,000 Regulate + Overlay U15 Duncraggin Road £30,000 Inlay U56 Kerrera £80,000 Regulate + Overlay U98 Balindoe £20,000 Regulate + Overlay A819 Claddich Jct £80,000 Widening & Overlay - North Shian Roads £110,702 Regulate + Overlay £1,353,467 District Total 2022-23 Budget ISLES C68 Breadalbane Street - Tobermory - Wall (CARRY OVER) £414,000 Design and land access delay B8072 Coll , Cranaig Junction-Sorisdale (CARRY OVER) £58,000 Ferry and Weather logistic delays £472,000 District Total carry over 2021-22 A848 Tobermory - Gulan Dubh £150,000 Surface Dressing B8073 Burg - Kilninian £61,000 Regulate & overlay C46 Glenbellart £126,000 Regulate & overlay - Tiree various locations. £100,000 Regulate & overlay B8035 Tiroran £55,000 Regulate & overlay C48 Carsaig £70,000 Regulate & overlay U14 Grasspoint £50,000 Regulate & overlay U6 Croig £24,000 Regulate & overlay - Tobermory Village £53,535 Inlay C47 Glengorm £40,000 Regulate & overlay B8073 Calgary £40,000 Regulate & overlay B8035 Knock £50,000 Regulate & overlay Page 40
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B8073 Ulva - Torloisk £100,000 Regulate & overlay A849 /A848 Craignure - Tobermory £87,848 Pre S/D for 2023-24 B8071/2/3 Coll Roads ph 2 (with C/O) £100,000 Regulate & overlay £1,107,383 District Total 2022-23 Budget BUTE and COWAL £1,406,200 Area Budget allocated BUTE A866 Rhubodach - Port Bannatyne £60,000 Surface Dressing U4 Ardmory Road £20,000 Inlay A866 Ambrismore - Ardscalpsie £150,000 Regulate + Overlay UC24 Crichton Road (Ardencraig Road - Albany Road) £32,680 Inlay UC05 Clate Point - Kildavanan £90,000 Regulate + Overlay C1 Bruchaig Road £50,000 Regulate + Overlay B878 Russell Street £19,180 Inlay £421,860 District Total 2022-23 Budget COWAL A815 Whistlefield - Invernoaden £170,000 Pre SD & Surface Dressing A886 Leanach - Stabilisation of Slope £400,000 Slope Stabilisation and Carrigeway repairs UC19 Coustoun Road Colintraive £42,920 Regulate + Overlay A8003 Glen Caladh - Bennien Mor £130,000 Edge strengthening & overlay ( poss STTS bid ) B839 Pole Farm - Inveronich £60,000 Regulate + Overlay C60 Argyll Road - Argyll Street - Park Road £50,000 Inlay U22 Mill Cottage - Lower Camquart £45,000 Regulate + Overlay U56 Kyles View Colintraive £15,000 Inlay B828 Glen Mor £31,420 Regulate + Overlay B8042 Victoria Road £40,000 Inlay ROADS RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME 2022-23 Page 41
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£984,340 District Total 2022-23 Budget HELENSBURGH and LOMOND £999,340 Area Budget allocated U197 Machrie Drive -Helensburgh ( CARRY OVER) £15,000 Delay awaiting utility upgrade £15,000 District Total carry over 2021-22 U012 Ardencaple Drive £40,000 Pre SD & Surface Dressing U191 Loch Drive £40,000 Pre SD & Surface Dressing U Roads Garelochead £110,000 Pre SD & Surface Dressing A814 Cardross - Westerhill £80,000 Inlay A818 Luss Road £90,000 Inlay A814 Glen Douglas JCT - Arrochar £34,920 Culvert Upgrade & Ditching Phase1 B833 Rockville £75,000 Regulate & Overlay U157 James Street Helensburgh £50,000 Inlay U320 William Street Helensburgh £30,000 Inlay U282 Sutherland Street £23,000 Inlay - Tarbet Roads £40,000 Inlay U118 Fraser Avenue £25,000 Inlay B833 Mambeg £100,000 Regulate & Overlay U247 School Road Kilcreagan (Barbour - Shore Road) £100,000 Inlay B872 Whistlefield Road Garelochhead (Viewpoint - Smiddy) £96,420 Inlay U149 Ardmore £50,000 Overlay £984,340 District Total 2022-23 Budget ROADS RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME 2022-23 Helensburgh & Lomond Page 42
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE 2 JUNE 2022 SERVICES ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS – COUNCIL FUNDED 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 This report provides Members with an update on schemes being taken forward by the Roads and Infrastructure Service which are substantially funded by budget allocations from the Council, as opposed to the other projects report on the agenda which provides detail on projects being taken forward with the benefit of external funding. RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee: i. Endorse the overall programme of council funded projects being taken forward by Roads and Infrastructure Services. ii. Note that a programme of street lighting column replacements will be brought to the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in September 2022. Page 43 Agenda Item 6
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE 2 JUNE 2022 SERVICES ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS – COUNCIL FUNDED 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 The report set out below provides Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee with information on the projects and schemes being taken forward by the Roads and Infrastructure Service, funded by the Council. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee: i. Endorse the overall programme of council funded projects being taken forward by Roads and Infrastructure Services. ii. Note that a programme of street lighting column replacements will be brought to the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in September 2022. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 COUNCIL FUNDED PROJECT SUCCESSES 2021/22 Project name Investment Comments Roads reconstruction programme £10million 2021/22 Improvements to the road network, supporting the local economy, tourism etc. More than 140 separate schemes across Argyll and Bute Footway and active travel routes £500,000 Improvements to footways across the area Modernised parking payment £200,000 Providing chip and pin options as well as cash Page 44
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We now have 64 parking terminals which offer multi payment options. Glengorm landfill cell and waste transfer station £1million New cell at the landfill site on Mull and conversion of existing building to transfer station. Securing the future efficiency of general waste collections on Mull up to the landfill ban in 2025, and providing efficient method to take material off the island for onward processing. 4.2 ONGOING PROJECTS Project name Investment Comments Roads reconstruction programme £8million 2022/23 programme Improvements to the road network, supporting the local economy, tourism etc. Specific detail on this year’s programme is a separate item on this committee agenda. Footway and active travel routes £500,000 Programme being developed which will be reported to the September ED&I Committee. Route optimisation £100,000+ Project to use technology to provide efficiencies in vehicle routing and customer information/feedback on bin collections, with a view to expanding later to other works programming like gully cleaning, asset inspections etc. A procurement process is currently underway for this project with tender returns being assessed at the time of writing this report. Public conveniences £100,000 Scheme to install charging infrastructure at high-use PCs to help offset the cost of providing PCs, which are non-statutory. Tender returns expected 20 May – will provide verbal update at meeting. Bute sea wall Circa £1million Sea wall was damaged in storms December 2021. The team had to act immediately to put a temporary solution in place to protect the public road, utilities and nearby houses. This scheme will see a total replacement to modern design standards. Ongoing work seeking permissions and consents for the permanent works which will be tendered. Page 45
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Lochgilphead depot rationalisation TBC Following the Oban model to reduce operating costs and open up land for development. This project is currently in the design and costing stage. LED project Circa. £4million Final 1,000 LED replacements (total stock c14,000). This will complete the LED replacement programme which was paused as a result of COVID. Replacing all streetlights with energy efficient LEDs means a huge reduction in costs and carbon footprint. Residual funds within the LED budget will be utilised for column and cable replacement. Streetlighting column replacement £300,000 At the budget meeting on 24 February 2022, the Council allocated £300k to deliver a programme of street lighting column replacement and improvement across Argyll and Bute, prioritised based on condition, with funding for at least 260 lighting columns. A works programme is being developed which will cover the residual funding from the LED project and this £300k column replacement fund which will be reported to the September ED&I Committee. These works will be prioritised based on asset condition and need. Sign replacements £200,000 At the Council meeting on 24 June 2021, the Council allocated £200k to replace street litter bins and key road signage. This was intended to help reduce future budget pressures for replacements of bins and signs and would also help to enhance the streetscape and general appearance of the area by refreshing the street furniture. This funding has focused on replacing signage assets based on condition and road hierarchy, with a focus on directional and speed signage (and where required the posts supporting signs). We have been able to replace signs which were faded and rusted, work which we would not otherwise have been able to do through existing budgets. Page 46
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Costs vary according to the size of signs and what other infrastructure is required The available funding has provided for a package of nearly 500 new signs across the Council area. The programme of installations is progressing will in the western areas (OLI and MAKI), and signs are on order for the eastern areas (BC and HL). Note that in line with Council policy and directional or place name signs will be dual language with English and Gaelic. Public bin replacements £100,000 At the budget meeting on 24 February 2022, the Council allocated £100k for a litter bin replacement programme and infrastructure, providing new/better bins across the area where required due to condition/need and with a focus on town centres and prominent locations, to support cleaner communities. The bin programme will focus on bin replacements and where possible combining multiple bins to improve the street scape, with a view to supporting and managing staycation/increased visitor numbers. Where possible the replacement bins will be 240L wheel bins contained in a ‘street cabinet’ similar to those installed in Oban town centre. These are better bins which increase capacity for some of the older bins and ease loading where wheeled bin can be contained within the street cabinets (which look more attractive and are not susceptible to blowing around in a storm unlike empty wheeled bins). Funding spilt evenly across the four administrative areas. At market prices available in February this had been assumed to provide 49 bins per area (196 across Argyll and Bute). Recently we have seen prices increases across a whole range of sectors – the current estimate is that the £100k budget will now provide a total of 156 bins in total. This is a reduction on the Page 47
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numbers estimated in February when the budget was allocated. Marine Projects Over £10million funded through agreed Marine Asset Management Plan Various on-going projects which will be reported to the Harbour Board in detailed update on the asset management plan. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The Roads and Infrastructure Service is engaged in a range of council funded schemes which will support and maintain key infrastructure and develop and support service delivery, all of which contributes to the sustainable economic growth and success of the region. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – projects are being taken forward to align with key policies like the Local Outcome Improvement Plan and the Roads Asset Management Plan 6.2 Financial – from existing and allocated budgets 6.3 Legal – the Council has statutory duties to maintain infrastructure set out in various legislation like the Roads Scotland Act 1984 6.4 HR – none known 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 6.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics – none known 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – none known 6.5.3 Islands – none known 6.6 Climate Change – a number of these schemes, particularly the LED project, contribute to the Council’s climate change objectives 6.7 Risk – none known 6.8 Customer Service - none Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads and Transport: Councillor Andrew Kain Page 48
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Policy Lead for Climate Change and Environment Services: Councillor Ross Moreland 24 May 2022 For further information contact: Jim Smith, Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services Page 49
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE 2 JUNE 2022 SERVICES ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS – EXTERNALLY FUNDED 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 This report is the first in an intended series of updates from the Roads and Infrastructure Service to Members on a wide-ranging programme of ambitious major externally funded projects which are aimed at improving key public infrastructure and/or improving service delivery of the day-to-day services which residents of and visitors to Argyll and Bute rely on every day. Other schemes are in the development stage and funding is yet to be secured/agreed, and it is anticipated that there will be external funding options for these schemes. 1.2 Having fit for purpose infrastructure is vital to the continued economic growth and success of Argyll and Bute, and contributes to the key aims set out in the Local Outcome Improvement Plan. 1.3 As well as a new series of reports, it is our intention to hold a number of specific member briefing sessions on both day-to-day activities as well as major projects both internal and externally funded, as part of a wider package of member engagement which will also see key information provided online via the new Member Zone platform. Members are asked to highlight to us any particular projects or areas of work that they feel they might benefit from a specific briefing session on. In an improvement from previous years, we intend to not only use agreed committee dates for these sessions, but acknowledging that this provides relatively few opportunities, we intend to look to hold briefing sessions and development days over and above the normal committee cycle. RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee endorse: i. The overall programme of major externally funded projects being taken forward by Roads and Infrastructure Services; ii. The programme of bridge works set out at Appendix 1; and iii. The programme of playpark works set out at Appendix 2. Page 51 Agenda Item 7
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE 2 JUNE 2022 SERVICES ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS – EXTERNALLY FUNDED 2.0 INTRODUCTION This report sets out a series of updates from the Road and Infrastructure Service to Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee on the wide ranging programme of works which are externally funded, and aim to improve the key infrastructure and service delivery in Argyll and Bute. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee endorse: i. The overall programme of major externally funded projects being taken forward by Roads and Infrastructure Services; ii. The programme of bridge works set out at Appendix 1; and iii. The programme of playpark works set out at Appendix 2. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 The Roads and Infrastructure Service is responsible for a vast range of assets and services, a snapshot of which are listed below. Grant funding and various investment initiatives enable to council to progress a number of exciting projects for key infrastructure, a number of which are detailed below: Day-to-day maintenance of a 2300km public road network Servicing 47,000 households for kerbside bin collections, lifting over three million bins a year in the process Grass cutting services for public grassland, parks and sports pitches, over 35million square metres of grass cutting per year Maintain over 500km of public footway Managing nearly 15,000 streetlights Manage (and working to expand) a network of 28 public EV chargers Provide four lifeline ferry services Manage around 60 public toilets Page 52
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Maintain over 70km of vehicle safety fencing Directly managing six civic amenity sites, and contract managing another five Transporting 3,000 school pupils to 78 different schools within the Council area, and another six outwith the area for religious or specialist education reasons Street sweeping over 10,500 kilometres of public footway per year Manage 900 bridges, spanning 5km which is the equivalent of 10 Queensferry Crossings Manage 77 separate local bus and home-to-school transport contracts, at a cost of approximately £6.5million a year. Provide nearly 600 grit bins for communities to self-help during the winter months Manage and improve 39 piers and harbours Manage and maintain the Council’s fleet, from pool cars to bin lorries and everything in-between – a fleet of 500 vehicles operated across five main workshops When freezing weather conditions are forecast, pre-treat 750 miles of public road, which is the equivalent of driving from Lochgilphead to Paris Maintain 131 cemeteries and one crematorium, and in doing so manage around 1200 burials and cremations each year 4.2 There are number of major schemes recently completed, ongoing and planned, to support all of the above, ensuring that we have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth. 4.3 EXTERNALLY FUNDED PROJECT SUCCESSES 2021/22 Project name Investment Funding Comments Oban depot rationalisation £2.6m Funded via insurance and capital receipts. Reducing from three depot sites to one, expanding an existing site. Reduces operating costs, creates service efficiencies and opens up land for economic use/ sustainable growth. Lochgilphead public realm project £500,000 The project was fully funded by The Scottish Government’s Cycling, Walking and Safer Routes Fund (CWSR), New, wider footways; improved pedestrian crossings; new cycle parking; new street furniture and special tactile surfaces for those with mobility issues. The team also ensured a simple but effective Page 53
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HITRANS and Transport Scotland’s Spaces for People fund, managed by SUSTRANS communications exercise which saw local businesses and other interested parties provided with regular weekly updates via email, as well as populating online resources via the Council’s website. This is a tried and tested method first used during the Helensburgh CHORD works and ensures we stay on the front foot, keeping businesses informed about how schemes are progressing and reducing the number of complaints or the amount of correspondence. EV chargers £300,000 All schemes funded by external monies secured in competitive bid processes Public and Council charger installs across the area Lismore ferry replacement Circa £618,000 Externally funded via Transport Scotland New, modern vessel Part of a wider strategy of ferry modernisation Low emission vehicles £170,000 Funding mix of ABC and external funding provided by the Scottish Government Working towards de- carbonising our fleet, since 2020 we have increased our number of hybrid/low emission vehicles from four to 70, reducing our carbon impact and contributing to the Council’s overall drive towards creating a net-zero region. Tobermory Railings £325,000 Externally funded Phase One of improvements to the sea wall, coastal protection and provision of new parapet railings. These works were co-designed between the council and community. Page 54
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4.4 ONGOING PROJECTS Project name Investment Description Comments Bridge improvements £5.450m Funding secured in highly competitive bid process from Scottish Government’s £32million Local Bridge Maintenance Fund The fund will be used to undertake proportionate works on bridges in need of repair, identified through our inspection programme/ records. Bridges provided critical transport (often lifeline) connections for some communities and are a vital part of the wider road network Appendix 1 details the list of bridges which have received funding. Campbeltown flood scheme £15.215m 80% Scottish Government funded plus 20% funded from ABC. Scheme will provide flood protection to Campbeltown, supporting local businesses and protecting the investments in the town in recent years. Tender due to be awarded at the time of writing this report. Rothesay outer harbour berthing facility Circa £900,000 Mix of external funding sources – Crown Estate and Town Centre and Island Infrastructure funds. This scheme will see an upgraded pontoon facility built, as part of the wider strategy to unlock the economic potential of the marine tourism sector, following on from the successful projects in Campbeltown and Oban. Helensburgh depot rationalisation Phase 2. TBC TBC Work is currently underway to explore options around creating a waste transfer station on land owned by the council at and around its current single all service depot at Blackhill. This would ultimately allow for a more efficient bin collection service in that material could be tipped and sorted here for onward bulk transport and Page 55
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processing, rather than the current arrangements which see bin lorries travelling outwith Argyll and Bute to unload. Tobermory car park Circa £800,000 Funded via a mix of Coastal Communities and Rural Tourism Infrastructure funds This scheme will see the proposed cemetery extension and new car park projects combined to realise an economy of scale. This will provide a useful new car park to support increased visitor number as well as securing future burial options in Tobermory as the current cemetery is reaching capacity. Currently work is underway to finalise the land assembly for this project prior to tender award Playpark improvements £155,000 Utilising funds from new Scottish Government fund which will be a rolling programme over this and future years. Works programmed as outlined at Appendix 2 In line with the requirements of the fund the list of schemes has been determined in part through consultation with the Youth Forums Oban bus improvements £280,000 Funding secured from the Scottish Government Bus Partnership Fund Explore the feasibility of bus lane and smart traffic signals in and around Oban. This is a joint venture between the Council and HiTrans. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The Roads and Infrastructure Service is engaged in a range of major externally funded schemes which will support and maintain key infrastructure and develop and support service delivery, all of which contributes to the sustainable economic growth and success of the region. Page 56
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6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – projects are being taken forward to align with key policies like the Local Outcome Improvement Plan and the Roads Asset Management Plan 6.2 Financial – funded from grant funding and supplemented with some council budget 6.3 Legal – the Council has statutory duties to maintain infrastructure set out in various legislation like the Roads Scotland Act 1984 6.4 HR – none known 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 6.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics – none known 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – none known 6.5.3 Islands – none known 6.6 Climate Change – a number of these schemes, particularly EV chargers and low emission vehicles. contribute to the Council’s climate change objectives 6.7 Risk – none known 6.8 Customer Service – none Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads and Transport: Councillor Andrew Kain Policy Lead for Climate Change and Environment Services: Councillor Ross Moreland May 2022 For further information contact: Jim Smith, Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services Appendices: Appendix 1 – Bridge programme Appendix 2 – Playpark funding priority list Page 57
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Appendix 1 – Local Bridge Maintenance Fund programme The total funding secured is noted in the table below, along with indicative site start dates. Bridge Name 2021/2022 Site Start Date 1 B840-140 Archonnell Bridge £40,000 Dec 22 2 B842-010 Claonaig Bridge £477,000 Jun 24 3 A815-230 Cothouse Bridge £517,000 Dec 22 4 A846-270 Glenegedale (2) £597,000 Jun 23 5 B844-010 Kilninver Bridge £1,194,000 Jun 23 6 B839-050 Lochgoilhead Bridge £198,000 Jun 23 7 A816-120 Oude £1,194,000 Jun 23 8 A849-280 Pennyghael Bridge £1,193,000 Jun 23 9 B842-150 Whitestone Bridge £40,000 Dec 22 Total £5,450,000 Page 59
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Appendix 2 – Playpark funding priority list Priority rating based on asset inspections and feedback from Youth Forum Area Playpark Priority rating Helensburgh and Lomond Hermitage n/a - new Kirkmichael Low Red Gauntlet Low Arrochar High Bendarroch High Howie Low Kidston Low Kilcreggan/Cove Low Rhu Medium Tarbet Low Cardross Low Bute and Cowal Meadows Medium Port Bannatyne Low Sandbank High Glenmorag Medium Dunoon Skate Park Low Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Lochgilphead Front Green n/a - new Ardrishaig KGV High Bayview Low Tarbert High Kinloch Low Lochend Medium Hillside Low Meadows Low Stewarton Low Jock’s Boat Low Bengullion Road Skate Park Low Ramsay Hall Low Oban, Lorn and the Isles Atlantis n/a - new Tobermory High Funding of £76,000 was allocated in financial year 21/22, with a further £79,000 this financial year. In order to provide for a meaningful programme of improvement works targeted at the high priority sites, as well as a works package with is attractive to what it is a limited supplier/contractor market, the funds have been rolled together into a single package. We will shortly put the package to the market via a normal tender process. Once that process concludes we will be able to report back on the next steps. It remains to be seen whether the total funding available will be sufficient to fully modernise all high priority sites. Page 61
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 2 JUNE 2022 DIGITAL EXCLUSION FUND – UPDATE 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The Council established a £250,000 Digital Exclusion Fund at its budget meeting on 25 February 2021. The Fund was created to support communities and in some cases individuals that are missing out on national programmes due to logistics and economies of scale. While vouchers are available from the UK and Scottish Governments in some cases these do not cover the full cost of infrastructure builds. This report brings forward two proposals for funding from the Digital Exclusion Fund. 1.2 The first proposal is to provide funding of up to £40,000 to the Back of Beyond Broadband (BOBB) for the purpose of completing a Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) network on the island of Kerrera. 1.3 The second proposal is to provide revenue support to a number of Island Community Halls that are part of the £100k Islands Infrastructure Fund application that is one of the projects being considered for and Islands Infrastructure Funding bid, subject to delegated approval. This is considered to be a pilot proposal to allow the Council to determine the value of distributing an element of the Digital Inclusion Fund in this manner. The reason for this approach is that consultation with various island Community Councils has identified a key inclusion barrier to digital connectivity in community halls is monthly connection charges. 1.4 It is proposed that we support the community hall initiative by providing the monthly connectivity charge for a 24 month period. This will allow them to either identify a sustainable model or establish if the service is required on an ongoing basis given how technology changes. If the service is not required the IT equipment provided will be able to be removed and repurposed in another location. RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee approve:- i. The provision of capital funding to the Kerrera Digital Infrastructure project to a maximum of £40,000. Page 63 Agenda Item 8
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ii. The provision of revenue funding to a maximum of £10,000, should the Islands Infrastructure Fund bid be successful, in order to provide connectivity charges for identified island community halls for a period of 24 months. Page 64
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 2 JUNE 2022 DIGITAL EXCLUSION FUND – UPDATE 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 The Council established a £250,000 Digital Exclusion Fund at its budget meeting on 25 February 2021. The Fund was created to support communities and in some cases individuals that are missing out on national programmes due to logistics and economies of scale. While vouchers are available from the UK and Scottish Governments in some cases these do not cover the full cost of infrastructure builds. 2.2 This report brings forward two proposals for funding from the Digital Exclusion Fund. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that Members of the EDI Committee approve:- i. The provision of capital funding to the Kerrera Digital Infrastructure project to a maximum of £40,000. ii. The provision of revenue funding to a maximum of £10,000, should the Islands Infrastructure Fund bid be successful, in order to provide connectivity charges for identified island community halls for a period of 24 months. 4.0 DETAIL Background 4.1 Modern standards of Digital Connectivity is of paramount importance in this modern life, unfortunately, for a number of local communities and individuals this is currently still aspirational due to a lack of infrastructure or affordability. Although there are ongoing Government and commercial investment programmes many of these plans however extend to 2026/27. 4.2 The Council’s Strategic Transportation Service has been working to distribute the Council’s Digital Inclusion Fund with both the UK and Scottish Governments, local communities and local suppliers. However, we have to ensure we apply the Page 65
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funding at the right time – to take advantage of national resources that will be deployed on the ground, in order to ensure the Council’s funding goes as far as possible and does not duplicate public funding. 4.3 Currently the main programme regarding Digital Connectivity is the Scottish Government’s Reaching 100% (R100) programme. This is the commitment that the Scottish Government has given to provide every premise in Scotland access to Superfast Broadband. 4.4 The current advice that we have been given from Scottish Government and Openreach is that the best course of action is to wait until infrastructure providers (in most cases this will be Openreach) have the necessary people, equipment and material on the ground in the locations where contracted R100 work is progressing. 4.5 This approach however does not help the premises that are struggling to get a usable broadband at this current time hence the need to look at potential alternative solutions. 4.6 Strategic Transportation have engaged with the council’s legal team in how the funds can be distributed to communities in need. We need to however be aware of ‘Subsidy Control’ and ensure that the Council is compliant when distributing funding. The Council’s Legal department have advised that funds can be provided to a community council/trust that has an existing contract with a provider. 4.7 Strategic Transportation are currently working with Legal to establish a method of how this can be evidenced to ensure that the funds provided are used for that specific purpose in a transparent manner and that we are not simply giving out a lump sum with a potential surplus. Kerrera Community Trust 4.8 Following communication with Kerrera Community Trust on how to access the Council’s Digital Exclusion Fund, a project was presented to the Strategic Transportation Team earlier this year with a proposal to connect the remaining premises on the Island of Kerrera. Back of Beyond Broadband (BOBB) have had aspirations to complete this however additional infrastructure costs have always been the key barrier to identifying an affordable sustainable model for this island community that lies close to Oban. 4.9 Discussions have taken place with Back of Beyond Broadband (BOBB). BOBB are a local Oban Digital Infrastructure provider, who has built a substantial Wireless network across the West Coast working closely with Scottish Sea farms to provide connectivity in very remote locations. They are also listed on the Scottish Governments official supplier list. 4.10 BOBB have submitted a proposal which is enclosed as an Appendix 1 of this briefing. BOBB have provided a very good service to the north of the island of Kerrera for the last few years, however there are still 14 premises on the south of the island that they have been unable to reach. BOBB’s proposal is for 3 stand- alone off grid repeater stations to be installed at various locations, to allow for line of site to the remaining premises, creating an island wide network. In light of the Page 66
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current cost of living crisis with fuel costs there is a possibility that the cost may be greater than outlined in the initial proposal which were obtained in January, currently outlined in Appendix 1. 4.11 The price estimates in the appendix at £33,100 were based on prices from January and, due to inflation, it is now estimated that up to £40,000 is required. Community Hall Connectivity Charges 4.12 The Islands Infrastructure Fund gives us the opportunity to pilot the Island Community Hall Connectivity Project initially on some selected islands (the bid has still to be submitted subject to delegated approval). Strategic Transportation has started engaging with the different Argyll Islands Community Councils to establish their willingness, or otherwise, for this intervention. 4.13 From early responses we have established that this has been positively received. One of the key issues that has been highlighted by Community Councils is the affordability of the ongoing broadband costs. 4.14 It is proposed that we initially utilise the Islands Infrastructure Fund to provide the necessary infrastructure to these halls that wish to take advantage of this capability. This would not only allow the hall to undertake this new hybrid meeting model but could also be a community digital hub that could allow individuals that do not have the domestic access the ability to access online services adding to the digital inclusion agenda. We have also been made aware that some community halls are used for rural Doctors surgeries. 4.15 As the Island Infrastructure Fund is for capital projects only it is proposed that the use of the Council’s Digital Exclusion Fund be used to support the ongoing monthly costs following a community grant model for an initial 24 months. 4.16 Depending what solution is utilised costs can vary, for example a general FTTC superfast broadband service can be had for around £30/calendar month (cm) whereas a LEO satellite solution will cost around £110/cm with upfront equipment costs of £599 (plus electricity costs for signal receiver). 4.17 We have been undertaking discussions with our ICT colleagues with regards to the purchasing of suitable robust equipment which would be appropriate for this purpose. 4.18 We have also had discussions with our community planning colleagues who have also indicated that they are very keen to support this proposal, and are assisting with the funding bid to the islands Infrastructure Fund. 4.19 The positives with this proposal are that it supports • Remote and fragile Island communities • It supports community Empowerment • It reduces the need to travel and consequently the drive to net zero • It tackles the issue of digital inclusion/exclusion building on the work of the council and our partners in this area Page 67
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• It can potentially support the future delivery of community health and wellbeing. The potential negatives are the project sustainability • Whether a community could afford the ongoing connection costs after funding support expires. • IT equipment security • Future IT support. 4.20 All agreements with community halls operators with regard to potential revenue funding will be done on a needs only basis i.e. the hall has no existing connection, that public access is agreed through the hall being open at agreed times. Recipients of the funding will be advised at the outset that the revenue funding from the council is considered a one off pilot, with no obligation from the council to continue this funding after the initial 2 year fixed period. Community Halls in receipt of the equipment and revenue funding will also be obliged to monitor usage of the equipment. Efforts will also be made to encourage use amongst the communities in receipt of capital or revenue funding. Revenue support will be capped at £10,000. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The rollout of digital infrastructure continues across Argyll and Bute through national programmes. Modern digital connectivity promises a number of direct economic and social benefits to our communities. The Scottish Government has always maintained however that the initial R100 programme will not reach every premise in Scotland and that additional funding, or alternatively, innovative technological solutions will be required to ensure delivery. Given the increasing importance of digital connectivity to our communities it is now imperative that every premise across Argyll and Bute receives equitable coverage notwithstanding our geographical and dispersed population challenges in Argyll and Bute. The £250,000 Digital Exclusion Fund created by the Council can assist with this objective of digital coverage and inclusion. 5.2 Members are asked to approve the release of Digital Exclusion funding of up to a maximum value of £40,000 for the Kerrera Digital Inclusion project and up to a maximum of £10,000 for revenue support for Island Community Halls subject to a successful Islands Infrastructure Bid. Any monies issued to community halls would be subject to an agreed MOU ensuring accessibility and monitoring of use. Revenue support will be for a maximum period of two years only and considered as a pilot. This will allow the operators of the Halls to either identify a sustainable model or establish if the service required. If the service is no longer required the IT equipment provided will be removed and repurposed in another location. Any further release of funding from the Digital Inclusion Fund will be subject to a further report to the EDI Committee. Page 68
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6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – the Single Outcome Agreement (SOA) and Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan support improvements in the digital infrastructure. 6.2 Financial – There is an indirect impact on council finances with the Digital Exclusion Fund sitting in earmarked reserves. 6.3 Legal – Legal implications are to follow existing community grant funding criteria 6.4 HR – None. 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 6.5.1 Equalities - the differing nature of the deployment of new technology has the potential to lead to inequalities in terms of access to digital services including those which support business and personal development. 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty - there is an overall risk that the economic and social benefits rising from modern digital infrastructure are not fully realised 6.5.3 Islands - There are risks that those areas which do not benefit from digital infrastructure could become less attractive locations within which to live and work which could have implications in relation to the SOA objective of growing the population. 6.6 Climate Change – The ability to access online services/meetings will limit the requirements to travel reducing an individual’s carbon footprint. 6.7 Risk - The various programmes are reliant on new technology and innovation which is developing rapidly. Some projects are reliant on commercial operator decisions to invest whilst grant funding is necessary for many aspects of digital infrastructure improvement in Argyll. These aspects all create a level of uncertainty around the extent of infrastructure improvements. 6.8 Customer Service - improvements in broadband and mobile technology improve the opportunities for digital based customer services. Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Economy and Rural Growth: Councillor Robin Currie Policy Lead for Islands and Business Development: Councillor Liz McCabe 19 May 2022 For further information contact: Iain MacInnes, Strategic Transportation Policy Officer iain.macinnes@argyll-bute.gov.uk / 01546 604647 APPENDIX Appendix 1 – Back of Beyond Broadband (BOBB) Proposal for Kerrera Page 69
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APPENDIX 1 Back of Beyond Broadband (BOBB) Proposal for Kerrera As discussed the North end of the Island has enjoyed a Back of Beyond Broadband connection for a few years now and the remaining, South of Kerrera has been something we were keen to connect but we have not had the business case for, prior to now. We can finally put in a quick to deploy, renewables powered, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) network, giving the homes and businesses an option of up to 1Gb connection speeds, with a guaranteed 100Mb. The plan here is to bring a multi-Gb fibre optic connection into our base in Oban, to then relay out to Kerrera and to other communities currently struggling with connectivity solutions. The hope is that the fibre end will be connected by the end of March 2022 and the majority of the FWA network will be in place, ready to be connected to properties soon thereafter. To do this we need to build our off-grid solution, which powers the FWA hardware on hill sites, to allow for suitable Line of Sight (LoS) through to the 14 properties. These Off-grid solutions are tried and tested in some of the most extreme locations on the West coast of Scotland, one site exists on Uist at 600m and has been operating for 14 months with no down time to date. The BoBBox's are bespoke solutions, built in-house. Specifications are different depending on the location. They are designed to be fully upgradable and they are not permanent structures, ensuring land is undisturbed at the sites. Each BoBBox is monitored remotely and maintained by us to allow a 99.99% uptime of the network, in all weathers and conditions. The FWA hardware is also tried and tested in the field and 100Mbps-1Gbps is commonplace with our existing networks in Oban and Campbeltown. The hardware has seen significant improvements in the time we've been operating (since 2015) allowing for improved speeds and security as the hardware evolves. Our customers tend to stick with us, even though we compete directly with other network providers (Openreach etc.) so we have many loyal customers who have been with us from day 1 of BoBB. End users enjoy our unbeatable customer support and quick response times, competitive pricing and all while keeping it local. We offer full WiFi6 solutions through-out a premises alongside Cat6+ network wiring if required, again this is secure, capable of handling the required 1Gbps speeds and is remotely managed and maintained by us. The costs of this Kerrera network build will be as follows, at cost- x3 BoBBox relay sites, including FWA hardware= £8000 each, total= £24,000 x14 individual premises connection, including WiFi= £250 each, total= £3500 Labour costs, x2 men over 9 days= £400 per day, total= £3600 Total project cost- £33,100 Page 70
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We have an existing mast site at the Gallanach Caravan Park (Oban Caravan Park), this can be quickly and cost effectively upgraded to allow for the multi-Gb links, we can absorb these costs which will be around £2000. This site is grid connected but we may look to swap to renewables power and use the grid link as a backup in the near future. The new Fibre site at the Oban side is the main BoBB site in Oban. We will connect the existing BoBB network, also allowing for the new Kerrera connections and the other potential network extensions to other communities. This site fibre is being upgraded and will depend on the lead times for the fibre connections, which is currently estimated for the end of March. We are looking to secure written permission from the individual landowners in the coming weeks, initial talks have been exciting and enthusiastic. The price estimates are based on January costings consequently the ask from the committee has been increased to a maximum value of £40k to reflect cost pressures at this time. Page 71
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH SERVICE 2 JUNE 2022 ECONOMIC STRATEGY AND RECOVERY PLAN UPDATE 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 Members approved a new Economic Strategy for Argyll and Bute in March 2019 and a high level economic recovery plan in June 2020 for the Argyll and Bute region in response to the Covid 19 pandemic. In August 2020, a further report to the Business Continuity Committee identified key objectives and actions that needed to be taken forward to assist with our economic recovery. The new actions that formed part of the Economic Recovery Plan took account of our previously identified economic priorities, changing Government economic themes and priorities and likely sources of external funding to help the council and our partners to deliver these priorities going forward. During 2021, many of these actions were taken forward, and reported to relevant council committees as and when considered appropriate. 1.2 This report now provides Members with a brief economic overview and then goes on to provide an update on progress on the both the actions agreed in the original economic strategy approved in 2019 and the subsequent recovery plan approved in 2020 that has helped inform our priority actions going forward. Appendix 1 of this report concerns an update on the 2019 Economic Strategy Actions and Appendix 2 of this report provides an update on the Economic Recovery Plan Actions that was approved in August 2020. 1.3 The report then goes on to identify a series of emerging economic issues and opportunities that Members may have a view on. RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee: i. Consider the contents of this report and note the updated Argyll and Bute Economic Strategy Actions contained in Appendix 1 and also note the progress of the Economic Recovery Plan Actions identified in in Appendix 2 subject to any comments Members wish to make. ii. Consider and note the intention to look at future economic priorities given the rapidly changing economy. Page 73 Agenda Item 9
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH SERVICE 2 JUNE 2022 ECONOMIC STRATEGY AND RECOVERY PLAN UPDATE 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Members approved a new Economic Strategy for Argyll and Bute in March 2019 that contained a series of actions and a high level economic recovery plan in June 2020 for the Argyll and Bute region in response to the Covid 19 pandemic. In August 2020 a further report to the Business Continuity Committee of the council identified key objectives and priority actions that needed to be taken forward to assist with our economic recovery. These actions took account of our overarching vision, our previously identified economic priorities, changing Government economic themes and priorities and likely sources of external funding to help the council and our partners to deliver these priorities going forward. During 2020 and 2021 many of these actions linked to both key documents have been completed, or are still in an implementation phase, with regular updates and reports to relevant council committees as and when considered appropriate. It should be noted that these reports are often accompanied by press releases for the benefit of the wider public. 2.2 This report now provides Members with a detailed update on this progress to date in relation to the identified outcomes and associated actions, and further identifies additional areas of work together with our economic priorities going forward. These priorities are designed to take full account of the changing global economy, the need for a green and inclusive economic recovery together with other UK and Scottish Government priorities, regional and local issues. As well as addressing economic challenges it needs to be recognised that our priorities are increasingly aligned to the many economic opportunities that are emerging as the new economic situation we now find ourselves in continues to evolve. That said, it has still has to be fully understood as a direct consequence of continued uncertainty assisting our local economy may need further adjustment to our economic actions in due course. This will be subject to a further discussion with our key partners and also Members. A further report on priority economic actions will then come to Members for their further consideration and approval. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee: Page 74
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i. Consider the contents of this report and note the updated Argyll and Bute Economic Strategy Actions contained in Appendix 1 and also note the progress of the Economic Recovery Plan Actions identified in in Appendix 2 subject to any comments Members wish to make. ii. Consider and note the intention to look at future economic priorities given the rapidly changing economy. 4.0 DETAILS 4.1 Members approved the new Argyll and Bute Economic Strategy in 2019. The Actions from this have been identified in Appendix 1 of this report. As the pandemic developed and made a number of fundamental differences to the priorities of Government and our economy a high level Argyll and Bute Economic Recovery Framework was approved at the June Business Continuity Committee in 2020 followed by more detailed Economic Recovery Plan including actions in August 2020. The actions identified in the plan are identified in Appendix 2 of this report. 4.2 Following these approvals Officers have been working in collaboration with numerous partners to achieve the aims of the agreed objectives through the delivery of the identified actions. This has been taken forward by taking into account the emerging economic themes of both the UK and Scottish Governments and balancing this against the resources of the council and the availability of external funding that is made available to the council through increasingly competitive funding streams i.e. Regional Capital Grant Fund (RCGF) and the Community Renewal Fund (CRF). ASSESSING THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPACTS 4.3 The pandemic and other global factors have had a significant and lasting impact on our local economy, and has been recorded throughout the pandemic by our monthly economic updates and also as part of the established Economic Resilience Forum. The Forum meets on a regular basis and is chaired by HIE and includes key representatives from the public and private sectors. The lockdowns, and subsequent Government restrictions led to a sharp decline in our tourism and hospitality industries that form a major share of Argyll and Bute’s private sector. 4.4 There was also a similar negative impact in a number of other key business sectors such as logistics, retail, construction, food and drink production and suppliers, and specialised professional services. This resulted in a significant number of local workers being placed on Furlough (at its peak 18% of total jobs in our region were furloughed through the UK Government scheme that was initially phased out in August and ended in October 2021). 4.5 In addition, there was also a substantial rise in claimant numbers across much of Argyll and Bute. This rise in the claimant count remained the case Page 75
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throughout the lockdown period and was very slow to recover until the tourist and hospitality sector was allowed to partially reopen in the summer. The council publishes economic updates every month that Members can access. 4.6 Despite substantial recovery the claimant count still remains above pre pandemic levels in most parts of Argyll, most notably Bute, Cowal, and South Kintyre. This is despite a significant number of vacancies that are not able to be filled. It should also be noted that there was also a concern at the time that the ending of Furlough in October 2021 would then lead to a rapid rise in claimant counts. While this did not happen many people either left the workforce to retire, to relocate to another area for family or lifestyle reasons. Others were indeed fortunate to find work in another business sectors, often better paid than their original employment and/or offering better terms and conditions. This has placed a pressure on lower paid sectors such as hospitality and home care for example. 4.7 Another clear issue that has emerged however is a significant and growing skills gap with shortages of key workers in specialist positions i.e. chefs, lorry drivers, joiners, care workers and people with digital skills. Whilst this was already a known factor across Scotland, including in Argyll and Bute, the pandemic has exacerbated this situation with many businesses unable to fully open up again as staff are simply not available or real pressure to increase salary levels means less staff can be employed. This is a significant issue for the future of our economy as businesses will be unable to grow if there is insufficient staff to do the work. It is also an issue for the future delivery of public services which are also experiencing key staff shortages compounded by an ageing workforce. At this time there are 850 live job vacancies across Argyll and Bute. 4.8 Another factor worth noting has been global supply chain issues with shortages and corresponding rising costs in critical materials such as timber, concrete and steel. It is hoped that this may be a temporary issue but the backlog caused by the global shutdowns both here, and across the world, has led to a sustained period of higher costs and significant delays in obtaining materials at the right time and place which in turn impacts on productivity and ultimately the deliverability of new capital projects. Rising energy costs is another significant factor that will continue to be an issue throughout 2022 and beyond for households and business. 4.9 The impact of the pandemic has not been completely negative however. The support given by both Governments and channelled through the council and our partners such as HIE and Visit Scotland has enabled many businesses to continue to trade or at least survive until they can reopen. In excess of £91m in grant support has been distributed through a wide variety of funding streams targeted at different business sectors and individuals. The speedy distribution of these funds involved an intense effort over a sustained period of time by Economic Growth staff working with other Council colleagues. This work was on top of their normal work activities conducted mainly from their homes and this has been recognised by the Council and our partners. Page 76
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4.10 The resourcefulness of local companies to find new income streams, combined with the increased use of digital technology and communication platforms, to reach new markets/customers has enabled some existing businesses not only to survive but also to grow and provide new products/services to their customers. A number of new businesses have also emerged at a time of great uncertainty with building warrants and planning application numbers returning to almost pre pandemic levels. 4.11 In response to the impacts of the pandemic the council approved an Argyll and Bute Economic Recovery Plan in August 2020 and this continues to guide our economic priorities at this time with progress on delivering our key economic objectives and associated actions identified in Appendix 2 of this report. 4.12 The extent of progress made with individual actions has been heavily influenced by the constraints and issues presented by the ongoing Covid19 pandemic and the speed of recovery across different sectors. Other key factors include the collective resources we, and our partners have available, the success, or otherwise, of our external funding bids together with new legislative requirements of the Scottish Government. 5.0 NEXT STEPS 5.1 It is reassuring to see that the economic themes and priorities identified in the 2019 Argyll and Bute Economic Strategy, the associated Rural Growth Deal and the subsequent high level Economic Recovery Framework and associated Action Plan approved in June/August 2020, all remain relevant and closely aligned to national economic themes. 5.2 This includes new Government priorities that have developed further over recent months as a result of the pandemic and its subsequent impacts on our economy that are still to fully reveal themselves. Overall it is considered that these strategic documents together with the themes of the Rural Growth Deal that they are closely aligned to our priorities continue to remain a strong foundation for moving forward in terms of our economic and social recovery across Argyll and Bute. 5.3 There has been a huge amount of delivery undertaken by the council and our partners including numerous community initiatives that have helped to transform our places and create new employment opportunities. 5.4 This programme of economic activity has in turn led to significant private sector investment in many parts of Argyll and Bute. There also appears to be a growing interest in people choosing to live in our communities taking advantage of our high quality of life we can offer local residents. It is hoped that they can bring employment opportunities with them. 5.5 That said, the economy is continuing to change and there is now a need to re- examine our economic priorities going forward, working with our partners, Page 77
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across the public, private and third sectors and understanding the views of our elected Members. 6.0 CONCLUSION 6.1 The Council continues to develop its plans for economic and social recovery in response to the Covid19 pandemic. Our area was hit very hard in terms of both economic and social impacts in common with much of the national and global economy. In particular, the tourism and hospitality sector, which is the dominant business sector in Argyll continues to have a very difficult journey to return to the growth of visitor numbers it enjoyed in recent years pre pandemic. 6.2 That all said, the local economy has rebounded well when it was allowed to reopen and engage with their customers old and new. Employment levels have recovered to a greater extent but there is still a higher level of claimant count in parts of Argyll and Bute despite a high number of existing vacancies. A corresponding skills gap explains some of this combined with many people choosing to take a different direction in their lives following the pandemic. 6.3 The council created a new Economic Strategy in 2019 with progress on agreed actions contained in Appendix 1 of this report. In response to the pandemic impacts however a new Economic Recovery Plan was approved in August 2020 and this is being progressed by council officers and our partners. The Plan is considered to be a strong foundation on which to build an economic recovery for the region. However, there is a continuing need to re- prioritise our actions and projects given the economic and social impacts we are currently facing such as skill shortages, rising material/energy costs etc. and also to align with national recovery themes and new funding opportunities. Progress on this plan and key actions, including a number of new actions that are included in Appendix 2 of this report. 6.4 The report then talks about next steps and stresses the need to prioritise our economic actions going forward, working with our partners across different sectors, and understanding the views of elected members. These new economic priorities will be brought back to elected members for their consideration and approval. 7.0 IMPLICATIONS 7.1 Policy - None arising from this report. 7.2 Financial - None arising from this report 7.3 Legal - No legal issues 7.4 HR - This will need to be resourced from existing staff. Page 78
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7.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 7.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics: There are no equal opportunities implications. 7.5.2 Socio-economic Duty: It is intended that by implementing our economic and social recovery it will best support the social and economic needs of our communities across Argyll and Bute. 7.5.3 Islands: None arising from this report; the economic and social needs of our islands will require to be fully considered as we move forward. 7.6 Risk - There is a risk that if we do not look to our region’s economic recovery now opportunities and assistance will be missed. 7.7 Climate Change - There will be a key focus on a green economic recovery going which Argyll and Bute is well placed to deliver given our abundant natural resources. 7.8 Customer Service - There are no customer service implications. Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead Economy and Rural Growth: Councillor Robin Currie May 2022 For further information - please contact: Fergus Murray Head of Development and Economic Growth 01546604293 APPENDICES: APPENDIX 1 – The 2019 Argyll and Bute Economic Action Plan – Progress Update APPENDIX 2 – The 2020 Economic Recovery Plan: List of current and committed economic projects (updated May 2022) Page 79
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APPENDIX 1 Argyll and Bute Economic Action Plan Critical Economic Infrastructure – to national and international markets Routes to Market Key Outcome ACTIONS EDST Role Delivery Partner(s) STATUS Link To 2020 Economic Recovery Plan Securing routes to market for our residents, businesses and visitors Inform and influence the review of the National Transport Strategy 2/STPR2 Influence Scottish Government; Transport Scotland; Roads and Amenity Services; SPT; Hi-Trans; Abellio; Scotrail COMPLETED STPR2 response to be considered at March EDI Completed Secure Transport Connectivity Investment through our Rural Growth Deal that supports the growth of our economy. Influence and Facilitate through RGD UK and Scottish Governments; Transport Scotland; Hi- Trans; SPT; Abellio; Scotrail. The transport elements of the RGD were removed except for the UAV Hub at Oban that is proceeding to Full Business Case funded by UK CRF. See I2 Inform our Regional Transport Strategies for Argyll and Bute that meets the needs of our economy. Facilitate Transport Scotland; SPT; Hi-Trans; Roads and Amenity Services; Planning and Regulatory Services; COMPLETED Completed To establish Oban Airport as a regional hub connecting to the central belt and the Highlands and islands region. Influence and Facilitate through RGD Scottish and UK Governments; HIAL; HIE; Hi Trans; Transport Scotland; Currently focusing on UAV Hub through RGD and Levelling Up Fund Bid; Fuel supply secured; landing assist equipment 100% funded. I2 Page 80
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Better Connected Key Outcome ACTIONS EDST Role Delivery Partner(s) STATUS Link To 2020 Economic Recovery Plan A better connected place for our residents, businesses and visitors Lobby the National R100 and mobile digital programmes to provide 100% coverage for our geographic region. Influence and Facilitation UK and Scottish Governments; BT; Digital Scotland; HIE. COMPLETED R100 both the north and south lots awarded; continuing to lobby for better broadband and mobile connectivity. I1 Secure a Rural Growth Deal investment in digital Infrastructure to deliver innovative Fibre to Fibre Ultrafast technology and address gaps in 4g mobile coverage. Influence and Facilitation through RGD UK and Scottish Governments; HIE; BT; Digital Scotland. COMPLETED Digital included in RGD Heads of Terms Completed Influencing investment in our energy grid Influence ABRA; National Grid; SSE; Energy Companies ONGOING Substantial investment in Kintyre/Mid Argyll; North Lorn next phase. I5 Secure external investment in our active travel network Influence and facilitate through SUSTRANS and RGD Scottish Government; SUSTRANS; Paths for All; Hi Trans; SPT; ONGOING Substantial investment secured. NE3 Page 81
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Place and People – skills, residents, visitors & Businesses Stronger Places Key Outcome ACTIONS EDST Role Delivery Partner(s) STATUS Link To 2020 Economic Recovery Plan Creating a sense of Place through an outstanding built environment To make best use of available external funding to deliver physical improvements to our built environment making our area more attractive to live, work and invest in. Influence and Facilitation Historic Environment Scotland (HES); Heritage lottery Fund (HLF); HIE; and Scottish Government. ONGOING Lochgilphead CARs and Helensburgh CARs funding secured; PL2 To deliver a Sense of Place Fund through the Rural Growth Deal focusing on smaller communities. Influence and Facilitation UK and Scottish Governments; HES; HLF. ONGOING Included within RGD Heads of Terms PL2 Creating a clear vision for our communities Supporting local communities to retain and develop BIDs and community economic alliances Influence and Facilitation Oban, Dunoon and Helensburgh BIDs; Bute Islands Alliance; Inspire Dunoon; HIE; BIDs Scotland; SURF. ONGOING Bute Bid successful ballot; PL2;PL3 We will look to inform the content of the National Islands Plan Influence and Facilitation Argyll Strategic Islands Group COMPLETED Completed Supporting local communities in securing assets Facilitation Community Groups; HIE ONGOING PL5 To raise our profile as a centre for cultural To support the development of key cultural hubs Influence and Facilitate UK and Scottish Governments; HES; HLF; Community ONGOING CHArts supported by PL6 Page 82
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activity and create a vibrant and sustainable creative sector Groups and Trusts; Creative Scotland; HIE. council to develop heritage trails; Rockfield completed and Kilmartin Museum on site. To distribute a strategic events and festivals budget subject to available resources Facilitate Community Groups; Events Scotland; Creative Scotland ONGOING Strategic Events and Festivals held annually subject to Covid restrictions PL4 To support the development of a sustainable Creative Business sector through the creation of a network of effective regional hubs. Influence and Facilitate through CHArts Creative Scotland; CHArts/Creative sector. ONGOING CHArts established/dis rupted by Covid Not being taken Forward To support Film and TV production in Argyll Influence and Facilitate Council Services; Creative Scotland; Screen Scotland. ONGOING Web site established and funding protocol for council sites Create Key worker housing to support economic growth Secure additional housing investment in the Rural Growth Deal Influence and Facilitate through the RGD UK and Scottish Governments; HIE; Construction companies; Strategic Housing and Communities Forum; Housing service; ONGOING Housing included in the RGD Heads of Terms PL3 Page 83
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Skills for Work Key Outcome ACTIONS EDST Role Delivery Partner(s) STATUS Link To 2020 Economic Recovery Plan The creation of an inclusive economy We will look to make work pay through the development of a regional Fair Work Strategy that will include the promotion of an Argyll Region Living Wage. Influence and Facilitate Private sector; HIE; Scottish Enterprise; DYW ONGOING P1 to P8; PL5 We will deliver an employability service that assists people with multiple barriers into employment on a commercial basis. Influence and Facilitate through Employabil ity Scottish Government; ONGOING P3;P4 Improving people’s working skills to achieve higher paid employment Align the region’s skills system to support our key growth areas through a Regional Skills Strategy Influence and Facilitate through the RGD SDS; Argyll College; UHI; SAMs; HIE; SE; Education Service ONGOING P5;P6 Support delivery of the Developing Young Workforce Programme Influence Skills Partnership; DYW Argyll; Scottish Government; private sector; SDS ONGOING P4 We will ensure that 95% of school leavers across Argyll enter employment, Implement DYW programme Influence Scottish Government; DYM; Argyll College UHI; HIE; SDS; Education service. ONGOING P4 Page 84
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training or education. We will increase the total number of employees and businesses across Argyll that work within our key business sectors identified in the Rural Growth Deal Establish Newton Rooms/STEM portals through the Rural Growth Deal Influence UK and Scottish Governments; SDS; Education service ONGOING Included in RGD Heads of Terms; Dunoon STEM Hub in implementation stage. Note Newton Rooms not being taken forward due to revenue cost implications P6 To expand our academic offer In Argyll and Bute that meets the needs of our key business sectors. Establish key business clusters related to our key business sectors Influence and facilitation through the RGD HIE; SE; MOD; University of the Highlands and Islands; UK and Scottish Governments; Stirling University; Strathclyde university; Argyll College - UHI; Glasgow College; Private sector. ONGOING Included in RGD Heads of Terms I3; I4 To grow and develop Oban as a University Town to have a minimum of 1,700 students by 2030 Influence and facilitation through Oban as a University Town partnership and RGD HIE; SAMs; Argyll College – UHI; Oban Bids; Education service; Oban Community Council; ONGOING Council focus now on Infrastructure and RGD Marine Training School at The European Marine Science Park. I4 To increase the number of businesses eligible for the growth pipeline Deliver core Business gateway support Facilitate HIE; SE; COMPLETED Growth Pipeline approach has been ended. Completed See E1; E2 new focus Page 85
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Smart Growth – doing more that works Supporting Our Priority Sectors Key Outcome ACTIONS EDST Role Delivery Partner(s) STATUS Link To 2020 Economic Recovery Plan Increase the employment opportunities and GVA of our priority sectors Deliver a sector-specific growth programme through specialist support in tourism, food and drink, marine sciences, renewables and defence industries Facilitate HIE; Universities; Scottish Enterprise; AITC; Visit Scotland; Food from Argyll; Private sector; Agricultural Forum; MOD; ONGOING Focus on Tourism and Food and Drink. Tourism Strategy renewed by Spring 22; Food and Drink Strategy commissioned due Spring 22. E6; E8 To increase the number of visitors by 15 % and the value of Tourism to the Argyll economy by 10% by 2030. To deliver a new Regional Tourism Strategy and 10 year Action Plan Influence and facilitation HIE; SE; AITC; Visit Scotland; Cal Mac; Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. SEE ABOVE E6 Visitor targets being relooked at in light of pandemic impacts Identify locations for future hotel investment Influence and facilitation Planning and Regulatory Services; AITC; Visit Scotland; SDI COMPLETED Completed Identify future cultural, marine and adventure tourism investment opportunities for inclusion in the Rural Growth Deal Influence and facilitation through the RGD Planning and Regulatory Services; AITC; Visit Scotland; SDI COMPLETED PL1 To achieve World Host Status for Argyll Influence and facilitation through Business Gateway AITC; Visit Scotland; people plus. COMPLETED World Host Training completed/Fun ding ended Completed To increase the value of the Argyll To identify and develop opportunities Influence and facilitate HIE; Food from Argyll; Agricultural COMPLETED E6 Completed Page 86
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Food and Drink Industry for the growth of Argyll’s food & drink sector through the RGD Forum; Mount Stuart; Food and Drink Strategy Completed. Delivery of the Maritime Change Project that best benefits the Argyll wider economy Maintain the existing strategic partnership and implement action plan Influence and facilitate through partnershi p working and the RGD UK Government; SE; MoD; Private sector partners; SDS; SDI ONGOING Partnership continues to hold regular meetings and take forward action plan I4 Secure additional investment through the Rural Growth Deal (RGD) for an Engineering business acceleration cluster. Influence and Facilitate through the RGD UK and Scottish Governments; SE; Strathclyde University; MoD; Private sector partners; ONGOING Engineering Hub included in the RGD Heads of Terms I4 To grow our population and raise our National profile as a place to live, invest, learn, do business and visit. To secure an Argyll Rural Growth Deal Influence and Facilitate UK and Scottish Governments; HIE; SE; SFT; ONGOING Heads of Terms secured moving to full deal. I3 To sustain and update a clear Argyll marketing and branding strategy for our region Influence Council Communication s team; CPP partners ONGOING AB Placetobe branding established Love Argyll and Bute New Tourism Strategy Marketing Action Plan completed E7 Page 87
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Improving Innovation and Productivity Key Outcome ACTIONS EDST Role Delivery Partner(s) STATUS Link To 2020 Economic Recovery Plan Establish Argyll as the natural choice for ambitious and innovative industries to grow and flourish. Deliver phases 2 and 3 of the European Marine Science Park at Dunbeg including a new Marine Training Centre. Influence and Facilitate Oban as a University town and RGD UK and Scottish Governments; HIE; UHI; Argyll College – UHI; Glasgow College; HIE;SAMs; Private sector partners; ONGOING Phase 2 foundation and infrastructure completed; Marine Training School at Outline Business Case part of RGD. I5 Deliver a Centre of aquaculture excellence at Machrihanish (MACC). Influence and Facilitate through the RGD UK and Scottish Governments; HIE; MACC; Stirling University. ONGOING Included in RGD Heads of Terms I4 Secure additional investment through the Regional Growth Deal for an Industry logistics centre at Kilmory Industrial Estate Influence and Facilitate through the RGD UK and Scottish Governments; HIE; Private sector partners; ONGOING Kilmory not part of RGD; RCGF funding secured £650k; £150k of Crown Estate funding and £1m private sector funding. I4 Increase the start-up rate, growth and survival of small and medium sized businesses Deliver core Business gateway support Facilitate HIE; SE ONGOING In addition administered with council colleagues £91m plus in business support grants in response to Covid 19 LACER Funding approved with £470k small business E1;E2 Page 88
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support in 2022/23 Deliver enhanced support through attracting additional external funding Facilitate HIE; SE ONGOING E2 Deliver a comprehensive, robust and up to date economic profile for our region Facilitate HIE; SE COMPLETED P2 To lower our carbon footprint Maintain ABRA Influence UK Government; National Grid; ONGOING Meets once a year NE1 To examine opportunities to better utilise our renewable energy resource in Argyll and Bute Influence UK and Scottish Governments; ABRA; ONGOING Looking to promote Argyll and Bute as a net positive region with potential 5GW of clean energy generation by 2032 NE1; NE2 Ensuring a modern fit for purpose energy grid Lobby through ABRA to bring forward improvements to the national grid and take forward pilot projects that look to improve the local energy grid and increase the use of renewables Influence and Facilitation ABRA members; ALIE Energy; HIE; Local communities ONGOING Major grid upgrade in Kintyre/Mid Argyll; Investment planned for North Lorn in 22/23 NE1 Create Business clusters Identification of investor ready development opportunities and seek external funding to address critical economic infrastructure as required. Influence and Facilitate Planning and Regulatory Services; HIE; SE; SDI COMPLETED Identified in Local Development Plan 2; RGD targeting investment on key strategic sites; Completed Page 89
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EDST Intervention Criteria Core Activities Our role is to intervene in the event of market failure with potential regional impacts. Work with partners to broker solutions and mitigate against negative impacts. Our role is to monitor, lobby and bid for external funding to address our economic priorities. Deliver Rural Growth Deal; Prepare external funding updates and prepare/submit evidence for new structural funding streams. Our role is to provide local economic information and evidence to improve our economic competiveness as a region and enable economic growth. Collect, analyse and disseminate demographic and economic date to inform public and private sector decision makers looking to invest. Our specific role through the strategy is to ensure that housing will support economic growth in our region by being available for key workers in the right place and of the right type. Provide evidence to obtain funding for key worker housing through the Rural Growth Deal. Our role is to influence, inform and lobby the Scottish Government, national and regional transport agencies for improved transport connectivity within, to and from Argyll. Provide the necessary justification and evidence for the delivery of critical transport infrastructure by regional and national partners. Our role here is to influence the energy industry including the national grid for the need for further investment in our energy system. Work with ABRA. Our role here is to facilitate minor improvements to the network, improve integration of services and examine how new technology can improve our public transport system for the benefit of the local economy. Work with SPT and Hi Trans at attract external investment and undertake feasibility studies. Our role is to influence, inform and lobby for fit for purpose, modern digital connectivity throughout Argyll. Work with our national partners to seek solutions to reduce gaps in the digital network and argue for additional investment through the RGD. Our role is to work with our partners to highlight places and individual sites in Argyll and Bute to potential investors. Prepare data for potential investors Identify sites through the LDP and provide supporting economic data as appropriate. Our role is to promote our area as a place for film and TV production. Maintain an easy to use film support network including a dedicated web site with transparent charges for the use of council assets. Our role is to undertake area regeneration activity that has the potential to deliver transformational change to local communities that makes them investor ready. Bid for external funding for area regeneration projects. Deliver agreed heritage projects. Page 90
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Our role is to help people with multiple barriers gain sustainable employment. Deliver Government sponsored contracts through the employability service. Our role is to support and build on the activities of developing the Young Workforce (DYW). Work with DYW and skills providers. Our role here is to support the growth of ambitious local SMEs that can offer additional and preferably higher value, employment opportunities. Offer one to one advice through Business gateway Offer ERDF funding assistance Deliver bespoke training event in key areas such as digital training. Our role is to work with our academic partners to expand further and higher education opportunities in Argyll. Through the Rural Growth Deal and targeted investments at: Helensburgh – defence and engineering SAMs at Dunbeg – marine science Machrihanish/MERL – Aquaculture Argyll – UHI network improvements. Our role will be to create, or take an active part in, strategic level partnerships, that have a clear aim to improve our economic performance. Tourism Strategic Partnership ABRA Oban as a University Town Maritime Change. Our role is to establish Argyll as a world class tourism destination. Help deliver a new strategic tourism strategy with clear priorities identified. Facilitate World Host Training Undertake Placemaking and Area Regeneration activity. Our role here is to inform and facilitate this process including community asset transfer and by doing so helping to secure a sustainable economic future for all our local communities. Attracting external funding to undertake economic projects including RCGF Asset Transfer Community Renewables. Our role is to support the expansion of the food and drink industry. Targeted feasibility studies, Attending promotional events Supporting the expansion of Food from Argyll. Our role is to support the growth of the creative industry including supporting events with national and international appeal. Work with CHArts Administering grants for strategic level events Film and TV work. Our role here is to attract sufficient private and public investment to establish a number of business clusters with the ability to accelerate growth in higher value jobs. Work with strategic partners to deliver the RGD. Our role is to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and audit processes. Ensure proper records are kept Prepare briefing papers on all aspects of economic and transport policy. Page 91
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Appendix 2 Argyll and Bute’s Economic Recovery Plan – Progress Update 3–year horizon planning Council Actions What we WILL DELIVER STATUS UPDATE ON PROGRESS People P1 Ensure the wellbeing of employees, communities and customers is carefully considered in everything we do; Ongoing We have applied Covid19 guidance consistently including working from home and site visit protocols; distribution of Government information and posters; offering digital meetings and implementing a recovery action plan. P2 Fully understand the economic and social impacts of the pandemic on local people and communities; Ongoing Numerous work streams launched on this including actions taken through the Economic and Social Resilience Group (chaired by HIE); Highlands and Islands Regional Economic Partnership established. P3 Put in place employment support for newly- unemployed, under-employed and those facing redundancy including disadvantaged groups and remote rural communities; P3 & P4: Fair Start Scotland - end of March 2023 for last referrals with a final completion date of March 2024. NOLB Phase 1 until end of March 2022. NOLB Phase 2: from 1st April 2022. Ongoing Fair Start Scotland – ongoing revisions to the marketing plan requested by PeoplePlus to be developed to promote the scheme. By end of 2021-22, 267 individuals supported since April 2018; 85 moved into work, 46 currently Page 92
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P4 Monitor leaver destinations and work with partners to promote opportunities and careers to all young people leaving full time education during the pandemic with enhanced support for those most at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or training) Accrual of NOLB. Parental Employability Support Fund (PESF)/PESF Boost and Young Person’s Guarantee (YPG) funding into 2022/23 granted complete with a grant offer letter for 2022/23 – now approved. Kickstart Scheme, 16-24 year olds (DWP, UK Government, until end of March 2022) – completion autumn 2022. PESF/PESF Boost until the end of March 2024. YPG, 16-24 year olds, Employer Recruitment Incentive (ERI) and NOLB ERI for those aged 25+ to include the same funding terms as for YPG ERI (i.e. up to £6,000 per individual plus training up to £500 per person). Pre-employment Support under YPG (16-24 year olds) and NOLB (aged 25+) Long Term Unemployment Intermediate Labour Market Support (aged 25+) - end of March 2023. supported pre-work and 16 receiving in-work support. Kickstart Scheme, 16-24 year olds - application deadline extended to 17th December 2021 and all job starts by end of March 2022. 38 young people in work placements since April 2021, with 24 employers supported. Supporting remaining placement starts until this programme concludes early autumn 2022. PESF/PESF Boost continues to provide key interventions for each of the 6 target groups. By end of 2021-22, 43 parents supported of which 30 unemployed and 13 low income employed since June 2020, with 7 progressed into work. YPG Employer Recruitment Incentive - continued delivery by Employability Team. Phase 1 - 62 placements against a target of 60. Phase 2 now being rolled out, with 90 placements by end of March 2023. NOLB ERI (25+) with 10 ERI placements by end of March 2023. By end of 2021-22, NOLB ERI (previously Argyll & Bute Employer Recruitment and Training Incentive (ABERTI)) – 34 participants supported since January 2020: 24 Page 93
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leavers/completers and 19 moved into work. YPG Pre-employment Support - partner organisations, including the third sector, delivered 74 formal learning agreements for young people by the end of March 2022. The target was originally 60, YPG Pre-employment Support for 2022- 23 (partner delivery) has a target of 54 individuals, where 60% enter a positive destination. Pre-employment Support, NOLB (aged 25+) (partner delivery) has a target of 42 individuals, where 60% enter a positive destination. Long Term Unemployment Intermediate Labour Market Support (aged 25+) focuses on the delivery of a caseload of 28 (partner delivery), where 70% enter sustainable employment by March 2023. ABEP improvement Action Plan completed and residual actions now incorporated into the ABEP Delivery Plan, 2022-25 (working document) and submitted to the Scottish Government. UK Shared Prosperity Funding Investment Plan, 2022-25 to be prepared by 1st August 2022. In- Page 94
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house employability provision to be incorporated under the people & skills investment priority, as team reliant of external funding. P5 Identify critical skills gaps post pandemic; Work will be advanced at a local level through the Argyll & Bute Employability Partnership, regionally at the H&I Skills Leadership Group / COHI and nationally through SLAED People/ Employability group. Ongoing Incorporate a people and skills intervention for Argyll and Bute within the UK Shared Prosperity Funding Investment Plan, 2022-25 to be prepared by 1st August 2022. P6 Progress Skills, Education and Training theme of the Rural Growth Deal and Assess workforce and skills; Delivery by RSAP under the RGD. Ongoing STANTEC commissioned to prepare OBCs to FBCs under the Rural Skills Accelerator Programme (RSAP). Dunoon Community STEM hub at design stage P7 Secure social value opportunities from Council procurement activity. Local authority PACE officers to be funded by SG (£80k) (Duration of post tbc). Change Unable to recruit a PACE Key Workers. Managed to recruit an Employment Engagement Worker cover NOLB funding, including PACE. The remaining funding under PACE had to be returned to the Scottish Government. P8 Develop a communication strategy that positions Argyll and Bute as a place to do business. Business intelligence to support communication strategy Ongoing Monthly Claimant Count and Economic Updates issued each month. A cross departmental statistical group has been formed. Business Gateway continues to gather key business intelligence as appropriate. Page 95
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Invest in Argyll web pages published. Place PL1 Continue to implement Council’s area regeneration programme of works; Focus on Place and the 20 minute neighbourhood and deliver the Town Centre Fund projects for 20/21 – final spend Sept 2021. Successfully deliver 4 Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) across the area – Dunoon, Rothesay, Lochgilphead and Helensburgh over the next 5 years. Deliver Hermitage Park for people projects – end Dec 2022. Manage the delivery of the successful secured Regeneration Capital (RCGF) grant contracts for Kilmartin Museum, Ulva, MAC Pool as well as the council grant for Kilmartin. Successfully deliver remaining Tarbert & Lochgilphead Regeneration Fund projects – 3 projects remaining. Ongoing Substantial progress made on project delivery. CARs schemes all on track and being implemented with regular reports on progress to Area Committee and EDI Committee. Hermitage Park Project completed; Bothy Project completed. Kilmartin Museum on site expected completion Summer 22; MAC Pool on site to be completed Spring 22; 3 additional projects secured RCGF. Lochgilphead Front Green on site to be completed Spring 22; Ardrishaig Public Realm at tender stage. Gibraltar Street Oban at design stage. Rural Growth Deal Place and Tourism investments OBC being developed Levelling Up Regeneration Bids being prepared Rothesay and Dunoon. PL2 Continue to bid for external funding to support all capital and revenue area regeneration activity that supports strategic Successfully secured £1.7 million for Kilmory, Port Ellen and Colonsay projects – delivery 2021/22/23. Ongoing Three Expression of Interests were submitted by the deadline for round 4 of the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (13th August 2021). South Islay Page 96
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priorities of the council and our partners; Continue to bid to RCGF annual funding calls (5 yr commitment in SG budget) – next call Spring 2021 including supporting community projects to access funding (links to PL5). Secure Argyll and Bute’s share of SG Place Based Investment Programme which will be backed by £275m for community led regeneration and town centre revitalization.to be delivered over next 5 yrs though working with local government on how it will be best deployed to have greatest impacts locally.“ Continue to work with key external funders partners to secure future funding for Argyll and Bute – including HES, HLF, Lottery community fund, RCGF and SG islands team. Work with Scotland Towns partnership and Oban and Dunoon Bids and support Rothesay ballot to secure future funding to our towns via the Bids. Host Round 4 of Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund applications in 2021. Potential increase in available budget. Development Trust (motorhome site and facilities expansion) application was successful, but Staffa (pathway improvements) and Kilmartin Museum (car park expansion) were unsuccessful. Rothesay Bid achieved a successful ballot. 28 Place based projects successfully delivered. Place making Vision document for Argyll and Bute to be prepared linked to External Funding opportunities and local/national priorities. PL3 - Implement Town and local Centre recovery plans; - Implement Strategic Housing Investment Plan; Delivering shop local campaign through Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP) and SG funding – successful bid, delivery 2021/22. 21/22 to 22/23 Shop Local campaign successfully implemented and shopfront grants to over 150 premises with latest phase being rural shops; shop local card launched in pilot year. Page 97
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Deliver TCF small scale shopfront improvement scheme –launch Nov 2020 on web site– spend sept 2021 and final reporting end. Shop Local Card Launched and funding secured until 2024. 128 businesses signed up. LACER funding circa £800k on Shop Local Card targeted at households in receipt of council tax rebate. PL4 Launch Strategic Events and festivals fund; Ongoing 21/22 Funding Round approved; Supplementary round to be awarded June 22; Further round to be held in 22/23. PL5 Continue working with local communities to help them secure a sustainable economic future including asset transfer; We are delivering Strategic Events and Festivals 2021/22 – funding round launched Oct, award, score, award and then issue contracts and then monitor. Manage MOD funding grant until 2024 event. Lobby the SG/UKG for a future local community led economic development programme to replace the current LEADER 2014-2020 programme. Lobby SG/UKG for a future Fisheries and Maritime Fund to replace EMFF programme, 2014-2020 Ongoing Economic Growth Manager has inputted to key meetings with the Scottish Government Rural Communities Director on a one-to-one basis for Argyll and Bute, focusing on how a future LEADER type programme could be delivered and administered. Commissioned SKS Scotland to undertake a study to develop a 'Toolkit for Community Led Local Development across A&B' fully funded (£50k) by the Scottish Government, which was completed by the end of March 2022. Key input from Community Development, Argyll and Bute Council and CLD, Live Argyll in framing this research. Now published. Page 98
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Proposals underway for a new CLLD programme further to the announcement of £11.6m of CLLD funding in 2022/23. Argyll and Bute Council has registered its interest to be involved in the delivery of this programme: either Economic Growth of Community Development – ongoing discussions. Successful bid to UKCRF - 8 projects funded out of 11. Total grant award, circa £2m now being implemented with end date Dec 22. PL6 Continue working with third sector partners in securing and re-purposing cultural assets as appropriate. Working with Inveraray community council in regard to community hall and Pier Support given to assist Anchor Bar Community purchase Bid being prepared to enable community to purchase Inveraray Pier. Anchor Bar Port Bannatyne secured for community with funding from UK Government. PL7 Links back to PL1 including Kilmartin Museum and Rockfield and support to CHArts and working with Creative Scotland to secure funding for CHArts and support for VACMA grants. Kilmartin Museum on site; Rockfield completed; CHArts supported in 2022/23. Discussions with Creative Scotland to support the work of CHArts and their activities. Oban City bid unsuccessful. Agreement to apply for City of Culture Status 2029. Page 99
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PL8 Work with SG island team to represent our island communities and work to support island communities and projects and inform the Islands Infrastructure Plan to be delivered, funding over 5 yrs – repopulation project. Ongoing Repopulation agenda being progressed through the COHI Population Working Group (officers). Settlement Officer now in post (one year post – 50% funded by the council and 50% from HIE) to take this agenda forward. Facilitated the delivery of various Island Infrastructure Funds with potential new bid being prepared for submission June 22. Islay identified as Carbon Neutral Island by 2040. Infrastructure I1 Continue to lobby for an accelerated digital infrastructure investment by national Governments and private industry; We will deliver secured external funding, via preparation of bids to BDUK, Sustrans, Transport Scotland, SPT, HITRANS, Scottish Govt, UK Govt funding streams. We will deliver digital and transport infrastructure projects across Argyll, utilising and maximising external capital. Scottish Govt. R100 programme has started to make full fibre connections available in Helensburgh (Central Lot) and Oban and surrounding area (North Lot), as build continues more connections will be made available. Openreach have released further exchange areas across A&B that are going to see commercial build as their fibre first programme continues to expand providing premises that already have access to SFB access to a full fibre solution. Page 100
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I2 Continue to lobby for transport investment through the STRP2 and the Argyll Rural Growth deal; We will deliver responses to national consultations that safeguard ABC’s interests and lobby national bodies such as the National Transport Strategy and Strategic Transport Project Review 2 STPR2 consultation completed with council submission approved at March EDI. I3 Continue to attract external funding to address local infrastructure issues to help facilitate business expansion including Rural growth Deal; We will deliver robust business cases for the £50M Rural Growth Deal covering themes such as aquaculture, tourism, low carbon, skills, places, digital, and innovation. Host Round 4 and 5 of Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund applications in 2021. Potential increase in available budget. Ongoing RSAP – 3 OBCs to be developed with Stantec. Round 4 of RTIF concluded. Round 5 of RTIF confirmed and 2 strategic development bids secured. Arrochar (Cobbler) Carpark Helensburgh and Lomond and Benmore Gardens, Cowal. I4 Expand existing and create new employment and business areas; We will deliver circa £2M air services contract to our fragile islands, to allow access to healthcare, education and employment. Thus improving accessibility to goods, services and social and leisure travel to enhance quality of life, increase community confidence and help stem depopulation. Inward investment opportunities with external partners and businesses e.g. Spaceport/ Distilleries/ Aquaculture (seaweed) / Food & Drink Ongoing Inward investment opportunities progressing with Business Gateway (part of Economic Growth team), individual businesses and HIE, across all sectors. Current focus is on distilleries for Cowal and Kintyre. Ongoing commitment to reviewing and approving projects under the Scottish Government’s Food Processing, Manufacturing and Co-operative Grant (current round 106 projects, circa, £11m). I5 Continue to lobby and secure improvements to our energy grid; Hold meetings of ABRA Ongoing Latest meeting of ABRA held in December 2021; major grid improvements underway or completed from Kintyre to Inveraray; Moving on to upgrades in North Lorn; Attended All Energy Conference May 22. Page 101
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I6 Continue to develop and implement Council’s Capital Investment Strategy and Capital Plan to deliver road, marine, ITC, Council buildings, LIVE Argyll and Learning Estate that meets needs of our community and Council Services Ongoing Regular reports submitted on capital projects progress to council. Enterprise E1 Continue to implement national business support programme and offer clear advice and information to local businesses; Core Business Gateway activity. Business Gateway Local Growth Accelerator Programme (LGAP), Repurposed for recovery. Business Gateway, Phase 5, Digital Boost Programme. Scottish Government COVID-19 Business Support Funding. Ongoing LGAP – end of 2021/22: 118 unique businesses supported with a combined turnover of £29.6m. The projected impact of this support is a £46.6m increase in turnover and 595 additional employees. DigitalBoost – end of 2021/22: 105 one-hour surgeries with a digital expert have been completed. 93 in-depth (typically 2 day) digital one to one support sessions with a digital expert have been approved. 156 workshops, webinars and coaching sessions delivered. SG COVID-19 Business Support: Circa £91m disseminated by Council Departments including Economic Page 102
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Growth officers (includes Business Gateway) – all funding continues to be notified through www.findbusinesssupport.gov.scot. Specifically, Economic Growth administered 17 different Scottish Government COVID Business Support Schemes, where more than 17,400 grants were processed, resulting in £49.7m paid out in COVID grants to support local businesses. Local Authority Covid Economic Recovery (LACER) funding £475k funding aimed at SMEs and hardest hit areas of Argyll and Bute following pandemic. E2 To continue to lobby for continued business support, policy and fiscal incentives and ongoing economic recovery funding; Transient Visitor Levy – future discussions. Ongoing Medium term recovery fiscal policy discussions. Scottish Government announced that visitor levy will be examined in 2022. Scottish Government Population Working Group re-established. E3 Continue to participate in the Argyll Economic Resilience Forum and address emerging critical business issues; Vice chair of AERF. Ongoing More focus to be given to actions and timescales - short to longer term. AERF looking to feed in Argyll and Bute Economic Priorities to newly established Highlands and Islands Regional Economic Partnership. Page 103
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E4 Provide clear advice and information on social distancing requirements for local businesses; Take part in and undertake actions as part of the Coming out of lockdown group to support our town centre businesses. Ongoing Advice consistently provided 2 additional officers employed to help businesses on a temporary basis funded by the Scottish Government E5 Implement an easing from lockdown officer group to enable businesses to adapt service delivery and enable expansion into appropriate public realm areas; Completed Group has completed its work; Covid compliance officers continuing for an additional year to assist economic recovery and safe working practices. E6 Develop key sector recovery plans; Preparation of key sector recovery plans focusing largely on the sectors where we have current capacity. Work closely with off shore wind developers and renewable sector to assist in the Scotwind leasing round. Work closely with Screen Scotland. Ongoing More work required to take forward an Economic and Social Recovery Plan, complete with key outcomes and proposed impacts. Lead by HIE. W1 Off shore wind site preferred bidder announced Scottish Power Renewables – 2 GW Film and TV web site established. Food and Drink Strategy completed. Tourism Strategy to be approved Spring 22 by Council and Strategic Tourism Partnership E7 Take forward critical destination management marketing; Develop through partnership working with industry representative bodies. Ongoing Marketing focus approved for 2022. AERF, plus national bodies such as VisitScotland, Scotland Food & Drink, Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre, etc. E8 To identify and market our key investment opportunities; Continue to identify and market our key investment opportunities through engagement with industry, stakeholders and Community Planning Partners (links with I4 above). Ongoing Current focus on new distilleries - confidential information. Significant expansion of tourism and renewables underway across Argyll and Bute on multiple sites. Page 104
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Natural Environment – low carbon Economy NE1 Continue the work of the Council’s climate change board and Climate Change Environmental Action Group; Input to Decarbonisation Plan and support climate change board through delivery of net zero focused projects including Islay Local energy network project (RGD) and continue to work with public and private partners via ABRA. Ongoing Transition to net zero consideration to be given to all project and investment opportunities. Climate Emergency declared by Council; Council invested £1m in renewables on council properties; Islay RGD Energy project at Outline Business Case; Hold ABRA meetings. NE2 Examine opportunities to develop the hydrogen economy at a local level and the sustainable expansion of renewable energy generation; Work with partners including HIE, MACC and private sector partners including Scottish Power to examine and drive forward the potential to deliver a hydrogen hub at Campbeltown. Ongoing Economic Growth Officer economic intelligence and data input to the initial MACC Hydrogen Bid to UKCRF for MACC base - which was successful. Hydroban hydrogen project proposed for Levelling Up Bid NE3 Continue to lobby for and invest in our active travel networks; We will deliver a programme of over £2M sustainable transport projects across our communities, maximising on external funding streams such as Scottish Government Cycling, Walking and Safer Routes funding, Smarter Choices Smarter Places funding and Scottish Government ‘Places for Everyone’ (administered by SUSTRANS). Secured a total of £2.24M investment for active travel across Argyll and Bute through successful competitive challenge funding applications in 2020/21. As no Council funds allocated for active travel infrastructure in 2020/21 have achieved the investment of £2.24M at no cost to the Council. Page 105
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Maximise value for money, by securing external match funding, to more than double the value of Council funds invested in sustainable active travel infrastructure and improving community links. NE4 To identify natural capital investment opportunities for communities and business; Focus on natural capital investment aligned to key sectors opportunities (aligned with E8 and I4). Work with offshore wind developers to look at the local economic opportunities that may be delivered from development of the W1 off shore wind site. Ongoing W1 site awarded to Scottish Power Renewables in January 2022; Looking to work with the preferred bidder to maximise community benefit and ensure regulatory process requirements are all met. Additional Actions PL5 Making the link between place based investments and wellbeing Pilot in Dunoon to employ 11/2 posts to undertake 3 year pilot in Dunoon all funding secured 22 to 24 Main post holder appointed PL2 / I3 Community Renewal Fund and Levelling Up Bid To submit Community Renewal Fund Bid To submit Bids for Levelling UP Regeneration and Transport identified projects 2022 to 2024/25 Community Renewal Fund 8 bids successful with £2.03m of funding including admin costs. Two Bids currently being prepared for Levelling Up to be submitted 6th July 22. Page 106
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 2 JUNE 2022 UPDATE ON STAYCATION PROPOSALS 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The council allocated two funding pots to support staycations in Argyll and Bute. £500,000 was allocated from the 2021/2022 budget and supplemented by a further £100,000 from the 2022/2023 budget to support the delivery of a range of facilities across Argyll and Bute necessary to support camping and motorhome staycations. A new Staycation Graduate Project Officer was employed in April 2022, until the end of March 2023, to help administer the council’s investment. Four council wardens are in the process of being appointed for the period April to October 2022 to raise awareness in respect of visiting responsibly. In addition to this, £20,000 has been set aside from the Staycation budget to support four community groups/trusts to employ temporary wardens. 1.2 The majority of the staycation facilities approved at the December 2021 Environment, Development and Infrastructure (EDI) report, for 2022 have been set up and running. There is an ongoing process of developing new waste disposal points and supporting local business/community groups in upgrading and developing existing and new campsites. 1.3 It is recommended that the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee: Note and consider the content of this paper; and Note that Staycation is an evolving process with key milestones identified throughout the year and beyond. Page 107 Agenda Item 10
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 2 JUNE 2022 UPDATE ON STAYCATION PROPOSALS 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 The council allocated two funding pots to support staycations in Argyll and Bute. £500,000 was allocated from the 2021/2022 budget and supplemented by a further £100,000 from the 2022/2023 budget to support the delivery of a range of facilities across Argyll and Bute necessary to support camping and caravan staycations. A new Staycation Graduate Project Officer was employed in April 2022, until the end of March 2023, to help administer the council’s investment. Four wardens are in the process of being appointed for the period April to October 2022 to raise awareness in respect of camping responsibly. 2.2 The majority of the staycation facilities approved at the December 2021 EDI report, for 2022 have been set up and are operational. There is an ongoing process of developing new waste disposal points and supporting local business/community groups in upgrading and developing existing and new campsites. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee: Note and consider the content of this paper; and Note that Staycation is an evolving process with key milestones identified throughout the year and beyond. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 The council is working closely with a number of agencies, including the National Park, Police Scotland, Transport Scotland etc. to help mitigate against the surge in domestic visitor numbers. Officers continue to work with these agencies to build on the successes of interventions set up in 2021. 4.2 It is worth pointing out that whilst there were literally thousands of campervans and campers across Argyll and Bute in 2021, the vast majority of these were responsible and respectful to our environment and communities. This was no Page 108
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doubt as a result of the communication and physical interventions put in place in 2021 and the fact that the vast majority of tourist facilities are now fully operational albeit hampered by staff shortages. It was therefore imperative that we revisited these interventions for 2022/23. Many of the interventions are already in place for 2022/23. Staycation Interventions 4.3 Economic Growth initiatives, through close engagement with Environmental Health, Planning and Roads and Infrastructure, resulted in number of activities mitigating negative effects on our countryside and tourism sector. Appendix 1 gives an overview of the interventions/actions to be taken forward in 2022/23. 4.4 Waste disposal facilities for camping/campervans. Officers are continuing to engage with campsite providers across Argyll and Bute in an attempt to encourage usage of existing waste disposal facilities by non-resident campervans and motorhomes. Officers continue to follow up with a number local businesses through providing an expression of Interest form. 4.5 Public Toilets. All public toilets are open. In 2021 stickers were designed and rolled out for all public toilets offering a link to the waste water disposal facilities map on our website to prevent irresponsible disposal in public toilets which are still in use. Through funding from the staycation budget, eleven temporary toilets have again been deployed by contractor at five locations (Westport, Bridge of Orchy, Glen Orchy, Kilchurn Castle and Victoria Bridge). This includes maintenance checks on a daily basis. 4.6 Council officers hold regular staycation meetings to discuss issues with a wide range of partners some of whom have taken forward their own initiatives. 4.7 General Waste. To promote responsible behaviour about 200 bin stickers have been put up on council bins at some hot spots by wardens and due to their durability they will remain throughout 2022. Local Amenity Officers have fed back that it seems to have some influence on behaviour and resulted in visibly reduced bin overflow. 4.8 Additional Warden Posts and Staycation Officer. Four wardens are being recruited to cover the whole council area. The wardens will cover the 120 car parks that the council is responsible for together with a number of other sites that appear to be a subject to littering. Positive comments have been received from the public on the work of the wardens. The Staycation Project officer was also recruited and started on 4th April 2022 until the end of March 2023. The officer will manage a variety of projects, engaging with communities, partners and businesses on littering, signage, provision of toilets, parking for motorhomes, and waste disposal development funding applications. 4.9 Community Wardens. £20,000 of the Staycation budget was set aside to support 4 x community wardens in 2022/23. As of 21/4/22 £5,000 of funding has been granted to support a community warden, employed by the Mount Page 109
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Stuart Trust to cover all of Bute and £5,000 grant to Appin Community Development Trust for a community warden. Two opportunities remain. 4.10 Web pages and Social media posts. To mitigate the impact on the environment an interactive map of locations of PC and caravan touring sites with information about waste disposal facilities available across Argyll and Bute was created - Touring sites and filling stations (argyll-bute.gov.uk). These pages are updated on a regular basis. Partnership Working 4.11 Friends of Loch Lomond were provided £3,500 funding for Portaloos at Arrochar and Luss for 2021 with a further £12,500 committed for 2022. 4.12 Alongside these activities, officers have been working closely with the tourism industry via the Argyll and the Isles Strategic Tourism Partnership (AISTP) to develop a robust new tourism for Argyll and Bute strategy that will alleviate any bottlenecks and encourage new audiences to our area. It should be noted that this is an industry led strategy. 4.13 Agreement has been reached with Police Scotland to conduct additional patrols in hot spot areas repeating what happened in 2021. 4.14 Agreement has been reached with the GRAB Trust to conduct anti-litter activities across Argyll and Bute working with local businesses and communities. 4.15 It should be noted that communities and private businesses continue to improve their facilities to deal with the staycation economic opportunity. This is the preference of the council and we are providing grant assistance when possible i.e. Colonsay camp site, Sandbank Marina Motor Home site. Finance 4.16 The total for actual spend to date is £242,512 and funds committed are £183,540 giving a total staycation spend of £426,052. This leaves £173,948 remaining budget that can be used for other interventions as and when identified. Appendix 2 provides further information on the expenditure. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The staycation fund has been welcomed by local communities and has greatly helped in addressing a surge in visitor numbers due to the reopening of the visitor economy. Officers have received positive feedback from interventions from communities, businesses and individuals and this is being collated and analysed by the Staycation Officer. 5.2 Officers continue to work with partners to respond to the challenges and Page 110
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opportunities that have arisen from staycationers and the situation will be monitored closely. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – The council supports a strong economy with tourism identified as a priority sector. 6.2 Financial - The council has an approved budget for staycation activities to be spent over a number of financial years. 6.3 Legal - All appropriate legal implications will be taken into consideration. 6.4 HR - The council has approved the temporary employment of 4 additional wardens and 1 staycation officer. 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty 6.5.1 Equalities - All activities will comply with all Equal Opportunities/Fairer Scotland Duty policies and obligations. 6.5.2 Socio-Economic Duty - Council services focus on removing socio-economic disadvantage for vulnerable residents across Argyll and Bute. 6.5.3 Islands - Staycation interventions are being delivered across the whole of Argyll and Bute, including the island communities. 6.6 Risk - Littering and health and safety issues arising from informal toilet waste disposal. Any staycation activity has potential to impact our ability to meet Climate Change target obligations. 6.7 Climate Change – All activities will comply with the Decarbonisation Plan. 6.8 Customer Service – Information is being communicated in different formats to our customers. Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Economy and Rural Growth: Councillor Robin Currie For further information contact: Fergus Murray, Head of Development and Economic Growth Fergus.Murray@argyll-bute.gov.uk Nathan Gallogley, Staycation Officer nathan.gallogley@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 111
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Appendix 1: List of actions being taken forward Action Point Date of Implementation and activity Responsible Officer Action to date – 4th April 2022 Web pages; social media posts and communication plan Content continually reviewed and now available Jane Jarvie Ongoing Identification of private waste water disposal sites Sites identified in Appin; Tarbet; Holy Loch Marina; Lochgilphead Caravan Site; Portavadie Fergus Murray All potential sites contacted with a mixed response– some facilities are on-site and but communication continues with others around possibilities. Identification of Portaloos site (confirmed not needing planning consent). Sites already identified Duck Bay; Arrochar car park; Bridge of Orchy, Victoria Bridge, West Port, Kilchurn Castle Jim Smith/Fergus Murray On site from 14th April until mid-October Community Hotspots identified via community councils/individuals and members Continued contact Jim Paterson Action so far –portaloos in place, review of activities Recruitment of wardens Underway and advertised hoping to get in post asap. Operational plans being pulled together to ensure supervision and support is in place for out of hours and weekends. In addition we will look to carry out joint patrols with Police Scotland and council wardens where it is considered necessary and police have available resource to commit to this. Jim Smith/Tom Murphy As of 14th April 2022 two wardens are now in place - Bute and Cowal and Helensburgh and Loch Lomond. Page 112
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LGE 9 post to assist Economic Growth Tourism Officer Staycation project Officer is in post since 4th April 22 Jim Paterson No further update Community wardens 4 grants of £5,000 allocated for Community wardens Jim Paterson Funding granted to the Mount Stuart Trust; grant to Appin Community Development Trust There are a number of larger scale interventions planned at Tobermory, Arrochar Car Park; Duck Bay etc. Completed for 2023 Jim Paterson, Hugh O’Neill Completed for 2023 Page 113
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Appendix 2 – Staycation Expenditure 2021/22 Headline Detail Spent or Committed Actual Expenditure £ Committed Expenditure £ Comments Staycation Officer 2021/22 Temporary post for 1 year to progress Staycation proposals. recruited Spent 14,741 Only part year Staycation Officer 2022/23 Temporary post for 1 year to progress Staycation proposals. recruited Committed 35,000 Additional Staycation Wardens 2021 Four additional wardens for a period of 5/6 months to October Spent 41,386 Additional Staycation Wardens 2022 Four additional wardens for a period of 5/6 months to October Committed 56,000 Additional street sweeping/uplifts etc 2021 Extra street sweeping and uplifts, includes car park maintenance Spent 19,816 Grab Trust 2021 Anti-littering campaign staffing Spent 18,830 Grab Trust 2022 Anti-littering campaign staffing Committed 17,000 Page 114
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Additional Police 2021 To provide additional Police Services to assist in promoting responsible camping – across Argyll and Bute, for a 12 week Period. Spent 23,040 Additional Police 2022 To provide additional Police Services to assist in promoting responsible camping – across Argyll and Bute, for a 12 week Period. Committed 23,040 Waste Water disposal points Grants 2021 Holy Loch Marina, Bunessan, Lochabie, Kilbride Farm, Pucks Glen, Gigha, South Islay Development, Portavadie, South Kintyre Development Trust Spent 57,393 Waste Water disposal points Grants 2022 Secret Glen, Dunoon Spent 9,254 Portaloos 2021 Installing 11 portable toilet facilities in places including Westport, Bridge of Orchy, Glen Orchy and Victoria Bridge plus support to Friends of Loch Lomond (£3,500) Spent 5,833 Actual is low as this was part funded by Nature Scott Portaloos 2022 Installing 11 portable toilet facilities in places including Westport, Bridge of Orchy, Glen Orchy, Kilchurn castle and Victoria Bridge plus support to Friends of Loch Lomond (£12,500) Committed 42,500 Page 115
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Temporary Campsite 2021 Colonsay - contribution to overall project costs Committed 4,778 Publicity 2021 information - leaflets etc Spent 13,131 Staycation car park improvements (17 locations) 2021 lining and information Committed 24,310 Community Staycation Wardens 2022 To support local communities and inform visitors Committed 10,000 10,000 Total 242,512 183,540 Overall Total – Actuals and Committed 426,052 Budget 600,000 Remaining 173,948 Page 116
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE 02 JUNE 2022 TRANSPORT FOR STRATHCLYDE: A NEW PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 In February 2022, the Chair of Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), Councillor Dr Martin Bartos, wrote to Local Authorities to seek support for the vision and direction detailed in Transport for Strathclyde: A New Public Transport Network. 1.2 The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee considered this matter at their meeting on 3rd March 2022, and agreed to defer the matter to the next meeting of the Committee in June, to afford the new Council when formed, to take a view on this matter. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 Members of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee are invited to:- (i) Note the letter from Councillor Dr Martin Bartos, Chair of SPT; and (ii) Consider the vision and direction detailed within the letter. 3.0 CONCLUSION 3.1 Following the decision from the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee on 3rd March, where it was agreed to defer this matter to enable the new Council when formed following the Scottish Local Government Elections in May 2022, Members are requested to form a view on the detail outlined in the letter, and accompanying document. 4.0 IMPLICATIONS 4.1 Policy – None 4.2 Financial – None 4.3 Legal – None Page 117 Agenda Item 11
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4.4 HR – None 4.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 4.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics: None 4.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – None 4.5.3 Islands – None 4.6 Climate Change – None 4.7 Risk – None 4.8 Customer Service – None Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth/Roads and Infrastructure Services April 2022 APPENDIXES Appendix 1 – Letter from Chair of SPT Page 118
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9 February 2022 BY EMAIL Provost David Kinniburgh Argyll and Bute Council Kilmory Lochgilphead Argyll PA31 8RT Email: chair@spt.co.uk Dear Provost Kinniburgh Transport for Strathclyde: A New Public Transport Network I am writing to you as Chair of SPT, your Regional Transport Partnership, as I promised my board members, to seek your Council’s support for the vision and direction set out in Transport for Strathclyde: A New Public Transport Network. The Transport for Strathclyde (TfS) document, published in March 2021 (attached), was shared with all Council Leaders, Councillors, MSPs and key stakeholders in our area at the time of publication. It has since been discussed and endorsed on a cross-party basis by all the local authority elected representatives on SPT, covering all 12 of SPT’s local authorities, as well as by the board’s appointed members. SPT’s board have agreed that the aims, vision and aspiration of Transport for Strathclyde should be adopted and developed through the statutory Regional Transport Strategy, but I am keen that your Council as a whole has the opportunity to express its view on our next steps. At the heart of the TfS document is a desire I am sure we all share as local councillors, for a better public transport system for our residents; one the document describes in its ten tests, is a public transport system which is available, accessible, affordable, ecologically and economically sustainable, integrated, efficient, reliable, safe and enjoyable. The second part sets out 5 visions: One Network, Smart Network, Green Network, Affordable Network and Network for the Future - which encompasses some of the challenging issues which we all know well from our constituent’s concerns.[1] The third and final part sets out the most difficult challenge - what we need to deliver those changes. We know public transport needs to change and we also know that by improving public transport, we can transform the quality of life in our communities - whether in towns and cities, or across the island and rural parts of the region. It must be said that good work is going on through various partnerships, projects and policy ideas, nationally, regionally and locally, at your and neighbouring authorities[2] - but even that work needs an empowered and resourced regional transport authority to support and deliver any ambitious change. The delivery of transformative change, championing the most vulnerable communities in and across the boundaries of our local authorities, presents particular challenges and I believe a stronger regional transport authority, accountable to your Council and appropriately empowered can meet the aspirations of our communities and tackle the big transport issues of net zero and covid recovery. Appendix 1 Page 119
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My ask of you therefore please, is that you present this letter to your Council, coming as it does with a breadth of political support and invite your Council to take a collective and united view on the aims, vision and aspiration of Transport for Strathclyde. I hope then that your Council might confirm that it would welcome the development and promotion by SPT of a Transport for Strathclyde Act, developed and consulted upon with your Council members (whomsoever may be elected in May) as well as the residents and transport stakeholders of the West of Scotland to make sure SPT can deliver on your behalf a region at the forefront of public transport. Mindful we are going into an election period, since I am not standing in the forthcoming elections, I would be happy to meet and assist in any way you think helpful and look forward to hearing from you and your Council. Yours sincerely Councillor Dr Martin Bartos Chair, SPT (Independent) Footnotes: [1] Whether it’s finally getting multimodal journeys and ticketing integrated, or having a network smart and responsive enough to guarantee travel options for the most rural or excluded; whether it’s decarbonising the network or finding fair ways to pay for it; or whether it’s preparing for the changes the future holds - I think the TfS document recognises those concerns. Most of all there are various problems which arise relating to competition law which prevent many of the integration issues which elected members and residents would want changed - this arises while operators compete between each other wholly at the bus-stop, whereas with an arrangement which adjusts that, then the scope for a transport authority to take action on various issues becomes more straightforward. [2] Over the last couple of years there have been many exciting announcements on transport policy, from free bus travel for under 22s and the fair fares review; from commitments for reduction in car mileage to large scale infrastructure like the Clyde Metro to provide new options; from bus partnership development with operators, to local pieces of infrastructure funded jointly by SPT and member councils - there is a lot going on and still much to do to deliver on local as well as national aspirations. At the same time COP26 reminded us we must act quickly to transform the way we travel and the pandemic has shown things can rapidly change whether or not we like it. cc. Leader of Councils, Cllrs in the SPT region, SPT Board members, all MSPs and MPs Page 120
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Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee Work Plan 2022/23 This is an outline plan to facilitate forward planning of reports to the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee. Date Title Service/Officer Date Due Comments 7 June 2022 FQ4 Performance Report Customer Support Services Roads Capital Reconstruction Programme Roads and Infrastructure Services Roads and Infrastructure Projects – Council Funded Roads and Infrastructure Services Roads and Infrastructure Projects – Externally Funded Roads and Infrastructure Services Digital Exclusion Fund Update Development and Economic Growth Economic Strategy and Recovery Plan Update Development and Economic Growth Staycation Report Development and Economic Growth Transport for Strathclyde – a new public transport network 1 September 2022 Waste PPP and Landfill Ban Compliance Update - following options appraisal Roads and Infrastructure Services Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 – Allotments Waiting List Register Legal and Regulatory Support LED Project Update Roads and Infrastructure Services Page 121 Agenda Item 12
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Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee Work Plan 2022/23 Street Lighting Column Replacement Roads and Infrastructure Services Employability Development and Economic Growth Winter Maintenance Annual Policy Roads and Infrastructure Services Footway and Travel Routes Roads and Infrastructure Services Future Items Cemetery Asset Update Roads and Infrastructure Services Parking review Roads and Infrastructure Services Shared Prosperity Fund: Argyll And Bute Regional Policy Position Development and Economic Growth March 2019 - Agreed that officers come back to a future Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee meeting to present and seek approval on appropriate criteria and indicators. Roads Resurfacing Scrutiny Review Roads and Infrastructure Services December 2019 – Agreed that a report containing an Action Plan would come forward to a future meeting of the Committee Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy Roads and Infrastructure Services June 2021 – Further report to be considered at Committee prior to consultation exercise. Page 122