Agenda reports pack

Argyll and Bute Council · 11 March 2025
Back to Helensburgh & Lomond Area Committee — 11 March 2025 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 
4 March 2025 
NOTICE OF MEETING 
A meeting of the HELENSBURGH & LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE will be held ON A HYBRID
BASIS IN THE MARRIAGE SUITE IN THE HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND CIVIC CENTRE
AND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on TUESDAY, 11 MARCH 2025 at 9:30 AM, which you are
requested to attend. 
Douglas Hendry
Executive Director 
BUSINESS 
1. APOLOGIES 
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 
3. MINUTE OF THE MEETING OF THE HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA
COMMITTEE, HELD ON 10 DECEMBER 2024 (Pages 3 - 8) 
4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 
5. POLICE SCOTLAND UPDATE (Pages 9 - 14)  
Update from Inspector Bart Simonis, Police Scotland 
6. PRIMARY AREA ATTAINMENT REPORT: HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND (Pages 15 - 28)  
Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education 
7. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE (Pages 29 - 32)  
Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 
8. HOUSING SERVICES ACTIVITY UPDATE - STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN
(SHIP) - ANNUAL UPDATE (Pages 33 - 44)  
Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth 
9. HELENSBURGH OUTDOOR MUSEUM - ARTS STRATEGY FUND APPLICATION
(Pages 45 - 54)  
Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth
Public Document Pack

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10. 2024/25 ACTIVE TRAVEL PROGRESS REPORT (Pages 55 - 70)  
Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth 
11. HELENSBURGH, CARDROSS AND DUMBARTON CYCLEPATH PROGRESS
REPORT (Pages 71 - 86)  
Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth 
12. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ3 2024/25 (Pages 87 - 116)  
Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services 
REPORT FOR NOTING 
13. DRAFT HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN (Pages
117 - 120) 
Helensburgh & Lomond Area Committee 
Councillor Math Campbell-Sturgess Councillor Maurice Corry
Councillor Graham Hardie Councillor Fiona Howard (Vice-Chair)
Councillor Mark Irvine (Chair) Councillor Paul Donald Kennedy
Councillor Ian MacQuire Councillor Gary Mulvaney
Councillor Iain Paterson Councillor Gemma Penfold   
Contact: Julieann Small, Democratic Services Assistant - 01546 604043

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MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE HELENSBURGH & LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE HELD
ON A HYBRID BASIS IN THE MARRIAGE SUITE IN THE HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND
CIVIC CENTRE AND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS
ON TUESDAY, 10 DECEMBER 2024
Present: Councillor Mark Irvine (Chair)
Councillor Maurice Corry
Councillor Graham Hardie
Councillor Fiona Howard
Councillor Paul Donald Kennedy
Councillor Ian MacQuire
Councillor Iain Shonny Paterson
Councillor Gemma Penfold
Attending: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager
Ross McLaughlin, Head of Commercial Services
Frank Montgomery, Estates Surveyor
Mark Calder, Project Manager
Colin Young, Strategic Transportation Delivery Officer
Claire Hallybone, CARS Project Officer
Charlotte Craig, Business Improvement Manager, Argyll and Bute Health
and Social Care Partnership
Sergeant Sean McNee, Police Scotland
1. APOLOGIES
The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting.
Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Councillors Gary Mulvaney and Math
Campbell-Sturgess.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillor Maurice Corry declared a non-financial interest in relation to item 11
(Expression of Interest – Lease – Helensburgh Pier Regeneration), advising that he is part
of the Helensburgh Pier Regeneration Group. Having reviewed the content of the report,
he did not feel that there was any substantive decision being taken and therefore advised
that he would remain in the meeting during the consideration of this item of business.
3. MINUTE OF THE MEETING OF THE HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA
COMMITTEE, HELD ON 10 SEPTEMBER 2024
The Minute of the meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee, held on 10
September 2024 was approved as a correct record.
4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
Peter Brown, Helensburgh Community Council
Would the Chair agree that the Minutes of the Area Committee of 10th September should
be amended to include answers to the Public Question session? As the Minutes stand,
they record the questions that were asked, but not the answers which were provided by
officers directly to the questioners in the weeks after the meeting. These answers were
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shared to Councillors directly, but have not been made public. The Council’s Q&A
webpage contains general information about the development, but the community asked
questions in public at the Area Committee and they should expect that these answers are
recorded in a public document – I trust the Chair will agree that the Minutes are the correct
place for that record.
The Committee Manager responded that the Area Committee approved the minutes as an
accurate record at item 3 of the agenda and advised that even if this question was
considered before approving the minute it would have been his advice not to change the
minute to include Public Question Time responses which were circulated following the
meeting. Mr McLean added that the minute is a record of the meeting held on 10
September and not what transpired following this meeting, with the decision of the Area
Committee, at the meeting on 10 September, being that the points raised during Public
Question Time were to be answered following the meeting and that Officers update the
information and frequently asked questions page on the Councils Website about the
Waterfront, confirming that all actions had been undertaken.
Angela Anderson, Plastic Free Helensburgh
Will the Committee note and act on the following.
1. The charging system for the pier continues to fault, this was also a discussion item at
the recent Bute and Cowal Area Committee meeting.
2. Silver bins, agenda item 9. Plastic Free Helensburgh is pleased to find that the bins
will be removed. You note, that three have already been removed and that around 18
of the new black bins are likely to be sited over the footings of the silver bins which
may reduce costs of removal unless this has been factored in to the estimate.
3. Most importantly, we ask that the Committee take strong regard in relation to the high
likely hood of more frequent and more intense weather events due to climate change
and the breach of 1.5C temperature rise and the risk to infrastructure.
Particularly will the Committee note and act on our concern at the potential reduction to
the roads budget and the impact this may have on gully cleaning etc. Currently many
gullies around the town and wider district are blocked or slow draining and flooding of
roads, pavements, gardens and around houses has continued throughout the summer
and autumn causing problems for residents and businesses and likely hood of incurring
high cost for damage and repair of both individual and council assets.
The Chair advised that he would raise the issue about the pier charging points with the
relevant department and provide Ms Anderson with a response to this question following
the meeting.
The Chair advised that Ms Andersons other questions would be answered by an Officer at
the relevant items on the meeting agenda. Councillor Irvine added that he continues to
meet with Roads Officers to discuss the status of all road maintenance programmes,
including gulley and drainage works.
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Allan David MacFadyen, Rhu and Shandon Community Council
Rhu and Shandon Community Council has asked me to raise the issue of culverts in Rhu
and Shandon, specifically at the loch side. The issue is the culverts and drainage with the
flow from the hillside which is affecting the main dual carriageway from Rhu exit going
towards Faslane.
The Chair advised that a number of elected members are pursuing the issues of culverts
and drainage across the Helensburgh and Lomond Area and that at the relevant item on
the agenda the Area Committee would be asking Officers for clarity on these matters.
5. POLICE SCOTLAND UPDATE
Consideration was given to an update which provided information on the ongoing work of
the Service and information on serious and organised crime; acquisitive crime; road safety
and road crime; violent crime; public protection; the new Area Commander; the continued
work on pro-actively engaging with the public in the locality; Operation Moonbeam and
winter safety campaigns.
Decision
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee noted the contents of the report.
(Reference: Report by Inspector Bart Simonis, Police Scotland, dated November 2024,
submitted)
6. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ2 2024/25
The Committee gave consideration to the Area Performance Report for financial quarter 2
of 2024/25 (July to September 2024) which illustrated the agreed performance measures
for this period.
Decision
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee noted the performance and supporting
commentary as presented.
(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support
Services, dated 7 November 2024, submitted)
7. ARGYLL AND BUTE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP -
PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ1 2024/25
Consideration was given to the Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership
Performance Report for financial quarter 1 of 2024/25 (April to June 2024).
Decision
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee:
1. acknowledged the performance for FQ1 2024/25 (April - June);
2. acknowledged the performance update on the National Health and Wellbeing
Outcomes and Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators, as at Appendix 1; and
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3. noted Delayed Discharge Sitrep as of 01 July 2024, as at Appendix 2.
(Reference: Report by Senior Performance and Improvement Manager, Argyll and Bute
Health and Social Care Partnership, dated 21 November 2024, submitted)
8. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE
The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided links to the recent activities
of Roads and Infrastructure Services.
Decision
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee noted the contents of the report.
(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure
Services, dated November 2024, submitted)
9. HELENSBURGH CHORD BINS
Consideration was given to a report proposing the removal of the silver bins in
Helensburgh following representation received from local Members.
Decision
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee:
1. allocated funds from the surplus CHORD budget to the removal of the operationally
unsuitable silver bins; and
2. noted that the future use for the model of the PS ‘Comet’ and for the ‘Flotilla’ of
‘Comets’ is under ongoing consideration by the Helensburgh Outdoor Museum Design
Panel.
(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure
Services, dated November 2024, submitted)
The Chair ruled, and the Area Committee agreed to adjourn the meeting for a comfort
break at this point.
The meeting reconvened at 11.35am with all those present as per the sederunt.
10. ROSNEATH CYCLEPATH UPDATE
Consideration was given to a report updating members on the progress made in relation
to the Rosneath to Castle Caravan Park junction cyclepath.
Decision
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee:
1. welcomed the securing of land agreements and funding to enable construction of
section of the route within Rosneath in 24/25;
2. supported the preferred option identified for Phase 2 of the route around Camsail Bay;
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3. instructed Officers, subject to securing external funding, to complete development of
designs for Phase 2 through Developed Design and Technical Design stages; and
4. instructed Officers to submit a further paper to members on completion of the
Technical Design.
(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and
Economic Growth, dated 11 November 2024, submitted)
11. EXPRESSION OF INTEREST - LEASE - HELENSBURGH PIER
REGENERATION
The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided information in relation to an
Expression of Interest which has been received from The Helensburgh Pier Company Ltd
(HPC). The HPC having been established with the goal of re-opening Helensburgh’s Pier
to marine traffic and to sustainably develop the pier to provide economic and social benefit
to the local community.
Decision
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee noted the detailed work undertaken by
The Helensburgh Pier Company Ltd and that Heads of Terms had been agreed with
officers to work towards the grant of a new lease of Helensburgh Pier allowing the group
to seek funding for its phased redevelopment.
(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Commercial Services,
dated 3 December 2024, submitted)
12. CHARITABLE TRUSTS, BEQUESTS AND TRUST FUNDS
The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided details on proposals
relating to the ongoing management and proposed distribution arrangements for
Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds for which the Helensburgh and Lomond
Area Committee are Trustees.
Decision
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee:
1. noted the financial position of all the Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds as of
August 2024;
2. agreed to make available all unrestricted funds from the Helensburgh & Faslane
Cemeteries Fund to Roads and Infrastructure and thereafter to place a moratorium on
the fund;
3. agreed that the ‘John Logie Baird Prize Fund’ prize be limited to £30; and
4. agreed that the Miss Anne Dickson Bequest is awarded on the basis outlined in
paragraph 5.4 and defined within appendix 1.
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(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory
Support, dated November 2024, submitted) 
13. DRAFT HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN 
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee workplan was before members for
information. 
Decision 
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee noted the contents of the workplan. 
(Reference: Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee workplan, dated 10 December
2024) 
The Council 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 8 of
Part 1 of Schedule 7A to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. 
E
1
14. HELENSBURGH CONSERVATION AREA REGENERATION SCHEME
(CARS) RECOMMENDATION OF AWARDS 
Consideration was given to a report which asked members to agree grant awards as part
of the Helensburgh Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) project. 
Decision 
The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee approved the recommended grant awards
as detailed in the report. 
(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and
Economic Growth dated 17 October 2024, submitted) 
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OFFICIAL: POLICE AND PARTNERS
Please note that all data included in this report are management information and not official statistics.
All data are sourced from Police Scotland internal systems and are correct as of date of publication.
Unless stated otherwise numerical comparisons are against the previous year to date and the previous
five-year average for the same data period specified.
OFFICIAL: POLICE AND PARTNERS
Acquisitive Crime
Across Helensburgh and Lomond shoplifting offences have seen an increase. Over the last three
months we have seen a clear spike in shoplifting crimes where supermarkets have been targeted.
This is however in line with a rise in this crime type across the West of Scotland.
A number of these crimes have been attributed to a travelling group of young persons who have
been targeting many supermarkets across the West. We are working closely with our analysts,
British Transport Police and other policing divisions to share information and evidence to identify
those responsible. Our detection rates this year (from April) are sitting at 70% and we continue to
engage with the COPFS and the courts to ensure the community impact of these crimes are being
realised.
Our Preventions Team, Youth Engagement Officer and local policing teams are all providing support
to local supermarkets and businesses within the local community. They are available to visit
businesses and residents to provide crime prevention advice should it be requested. We remain
determined to reduce the impact of acquisitive crime locally and we will continue to thoroughly
investigate all reports.
(Figures from 1st April – 2nd March 2025)
Crime Type 5 Year
Average
PYTD YTD % Change from
previous Year
Common Theft 36.6 51 33 -35.3%
Fraud 20.4 26 26 0%
Theft shoplifting 28.4 36 92 +223.9%
Road Safety & Road Crime
Speeding and driving complaints remain prevalent within Helensburgh and Lomond. Areas such as
Cardross Road from the County Hotel to Mamis Eskin Wynd remain a concern for community
members. Other areas such as West Montrose Street have also been highlighted locally.
We continue to support community concerns in this area through direct action, prevention and
intervention work. Proactive speed checks have been carried out across the area and between
01/11/2024 and the week commencing 20/01/2025, 39 drivers have been issued with fines or
reported with speeding offences. In the same period our national festive drink driving campaign was
running which resulted in eight drivers being stopped who were found to be unfit to drive.
We are also aware that the removal of the average speed camera on the A82 has resulted in a few
queries to our elected members. I have spoken with the Safety Camera Unit who confirmed that
since the installation they have been inundated with complaints relating to HGVs slowing traffic on
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OFFICIAL: POLICE AND PARTNERS
Please note that all data included in this report are management information and not official statistics.
All data are sourced from Police Scotland internal systems and are correct as of date of publication.
Unless stated otherwise numerical comparisons are against the previous year to date and the previous
five-year average for the same data period specified.
OFFICIAL: POLICE AND PARTNERS
the road. They have confirmed that they will resume enforcing via their mobile vans along this
stretch of the A82. They are also hopeful that these cameras will be re-introduced in the summer as
a result of the increase in seasonal traffic.
Our Preventions Team continue to be proactive on our social media streams and are planning a
number of road safety road shows in the coming months which were well received in 2024.
Anti-social behaviour and Violent Crime
Over the course of the festive period and into this year, we have provided high visibility patrols
throughout our villages and towns. We supported Christmas fayres and community events during
the day and at night we provided a high visibility presence in hot spot areas providing reassurance
and support to our nighttime economy.
Our officers carried out over 50 visits to licensed premises across Helensburgh and Lomond during
December which helped reduce alcohol related anti-social behaviour and violence. The number of
recorded serious assaults have reduced based on the same time scales last year. We have seen a rise
in common assaults across the area particularly against emergency service personnel, where we
have recorded an increase of 70%.
Attacks on emergency services personnel are unacceptable but we continue to work with staff to
ensure they have sufficient training and support to make sure they are serving the community with
confidence and the appropriate skills.
Over recent weeks there have been a number of serious assaults reported in the areas of Camis
Eskan Wynd and Old Luss Road. It is important to note that these are isolated incidents, the majority
of people involved have already been identified and there are further enquiries still currently
ongoing. We continue to work with our partners and the wider public to ensure that these
individuals are disrupted and that prevention strategies are also considered.
Public Protection
Public protection remains a local and force-wide priority and at the forefront of policing. We
continue to support individuals through a victim-centred approach. Our officers receive regular
training and guidance to ensure we are supporting those affected with professionalism and
empathy.
We have an effective governance structure in place to ensure all reports are scrutinised. This
ensures all investigative opportunities are considered by the enquiry officers before any report can
be filed.
We continue to robustly manage those domestic offenders released on Bail to ensure they are
adhering to restrictions placed on them by the courts.
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OFFICIAL: POLICE AND PARTNERS 
Please note that all data included in this report are management information and not official statistics.
All data are sourced from Police Scotland internal systems and are correct as of date of publication.
Unless stated otherwise numerical comparisons are against the previous year to date and the previous
five-year average for the same data period specified. 
OFFICIAL: POLICE AND PARTNERS
Useful Links/Contacts 
• Argyll and Bute Communtiy Directory - https://abcd.scot/ including warm spaces
information
• Crimestoppers – Crimestoppers in Scotland | Crimestoppers (crimestoppers-uk.org) 0800
555 111
• Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime – www.scottishparc.co.uk 
• Women’s Aid - Home - Women's Aid (womensaid.org.uk) 
• Citizens Advice – 0808 164 6000
• Argyll and Bute Council Trading Standards – 01546 605 519
• Argyll and Bute Council – https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/my-council/how-contact-us 
• Transport Scotland – road related incidents and road closures -
https://www.traffic.gov.scot/traffic-information/incidents
• Scottish Water - https://www.scottishwater.co.uk/Help-and-Resources/Contact-Us 0800
0778 778
• NHS24 (including mental health support) – 111 or https://www.nhsinform.scot/ 
Follow us on Social Media and help share loacl appeals and education messages
• Facebook -  Police Scotland Argyll and West Dunbartonshire 
• X (formerly Twitter) – PSOSArgyllBute and PSOS ArgWestDunb 
Sign up to Neighbourhood Watch to receive local alerts and bulletins for your community area -
https://neighbourhoodwatchscotland.co.uk/#0 
Have your say on your local policing priorities - https://consult.scotland.police.uk/strategy-insight-
and-innovation/your-police-2024-2025/ 
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1 
Education Service 
Primary Area Attainment
Report: Helensburgh and
Lomond (HALCO) March 2025 
‘Our Children, Their Future’ 
Argyll and Bute Council 2024 - 2025
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2 
Introduction 
Within the Helensburgh and Lomond area there are 12 Primary Schools, with nursery provision
provided within several of these schools. There is secondary school provision in Hermitage Academy for
the Helensburgh and Lomond area. Our primary school rolls for the area vary considerably ranging from 13
pupils at Luss Primary School to 366 at Hermitage Primary School. 
This report provides a range of key information about school provision from June 2024 to January 2025
and reports the National collection of attainment and achievement data from June 2024. 
This report contains the collective data and performance for the locality. More detailed information about
school level successes and achievements can be found in each school’s Standards and Quality Report.
In addition, each school’s Improvement Plan outlines their main priorities for improvement. Most
schools have an active website where these documents can be accessed, and further links or
information can be obtained from the Head Teacher.
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3 
Helensburgh and Lomond School Profile 2024-2025 
Cluster Primary Schools 20/21 21/22 22/23 23/24 24/25 % change in Roll over
5 years1
Arrochar Primary School 60 54 49 39 38 -34%
Cardross Primary School 162 174 173 166 173 7%
Colgrain Primary School 302 273 257 256 232 -22%
Garelochhead Primary School 112 121 107 106 87 -20%
Hermitage Primary School 374 370 371 374 366 -2%
John Logie Baird Primary School 116 108 103 92 96 -15%
Kilcreggan Primary School 81 86 85 81 73 -10%
Luss Primary School 10 12 11 11 13 33%
Parklands School (P1-P7) 12 19 23 30 31 -190%
Rhu Primary School 200 190 171 169 172 -13%
Rosneath Primary School 81 80 80 83 85 5%
St Joseph's Primary School -
Helensburgh 161 147 136 141 159 -1%
Total 1671 1634 1566 1548 1525 -11%
* Data for rolls provided at Census each year 
1 Please note the % change in Roll over 5 years shows the percentage change in roll figures from 2020/21 to 2024/25
and is not an average. 
SIMD Profile 
SIMD is the Scottish Government's standard approach to identify areas of multiple deprivation in Scotland,
with SIMD 1 indicating areas of highest deprivation and SIMD 10 indicating the least deprived. It can help
improve understanding about the outcomes and circumstances of people living in the most deprived areas
in Scotland. It can also allow effective targeting of policies and funding where the aim is to wholly or partly
tackle or take account of area concentrations of multiple deprivation. 
Table below shows percentages of pupils residing in each decile/quintile of the SIMD in each area of
Argyll and Bute. 
1 2 3 4 5 
Area 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Unknown
Bute and
Cowal 16.4% 14.3% 18.0% 9.1% 23.0% 15.3% 2.4% 0.0% 1.4% 0.0% 0.0%
HALCO 3.2% 5.7% 6.1% 3.3% 9.5% 13.7% 15.8% 20.8% 12.8% 8.9% 0.1%
MAKI 0.0% 6.3% 8.5% 10.6% 9.5% 43.6% 21.7% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.1%
OLI 1.4% 0.0% 0.2% 12.4% 24.9% 18.3% 34.0% 7.4% 0.0% 0.0% 1.9% 
* SIMD data from January 2025
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4 
Footwear and Clothing Grant and Free School Meal Information for HALCO 
 Clothing and Footwear Grant (CFG) is not shown as a National Average as each authority sets their
own criteria and therefore cannot be compared accurately. Please note that 2024-2025 data for CFG
and Free School Meals (FSM) is to date (end December 2024) and therefore may change as the year
progresses. 
 In January 2022, the Scottish Government launched the extension of free school meal universal
eligibility to include all children in primary 1-5. The above figures only show those pupils in P6 and P7. 
 In August 2021, the Scottish Government introduced a School clothing grant minimum for all
authorities set at £120 for Primary pupils and £150 for Secondary pupils.
 Financial support is given during school holidays to all parents where their child receives free school
meals under Scottish Government set criteria. Further information can be found at Help during the
school holidays - mygov.scot
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5 
Attendance and Exclusions Information for HALCO 
Session 2023-24 under embargo by SG
**2024-25 Data up to end December 2023 
 Authorised absence includes bereavement, short – term exceptional domestic situations, religious
observance and weddings of immediate family. Unauthorised absence includes truancy,
unexplained absence and most family holidays during term time. Attendance and absence is
outlined in recently updated. Management Circular 3.03.
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6
 During 2020/21 there were additional attendance codes added for COVID. These codes can count
as attendance, authorised absence or unauthorised absence depending on the circumstance.
 There have been no exclusions in primary schools in the area from August 2024 to January 2025 nor
during the previous 2 school sessions.
 Please note that attendance & exclusion data for 2023/24 remains under SG embargo.
 Please note that attendance & exclusion data for 2024/25 is up to the end of December and not a
complete year. It is therefore subject to change.
 Pupil attendance has been highlighted nationally as a concern. Significant work at authority level has
been undertaken to maximise pupil attendance. This includes the formation of a strategic group and
working party, refreshed policy and guidance, staff training, and a media campaign highlighting the
impact of non-attendance and individual school attendance targets. All these aspects are working
together to ensure a sharpened focus and emphasis on pupil attendance.
Additional Support Needs
The table below indicates the numbers of pupils identified as having Additional Support Needs
across the Helensburgh and Lomond area at each stage of primary schools.
Student Needs P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 Total
Autistic spectrum disorder 10 10 12 14 6 7 9 68
Bereavement 1 2 2 5
Communication Support Needs 1 3 7 4 3 1 19
Dyslexia 3 5 9 17
English as an additional language 6 8 7 7 5 7 3 43
Family Issues 1 2 3 2 7 5 20
Hearing impairment 1 1 4 1 2 1 10
Interrupted learning 1 3 4
Language or speech disorder 5 9 7 5 8 3 1 38
Learning disability 1 4 2 4 3 4 1 19
Looked after 1 3 5 3 1 5 5 23
Mental health problem 1 1 1 2 5
More able pupil 1 1 1 3
Other 1 16 23 23 17 25 19 124
Other moderate learning difficulty 2 9 1 5 2 2 4 25
Other specific learning difficulty (eg numeric) 1 3 8 6 7 6 15 46
Physical health problem 2 3 3 4 1 6 7 26
Physical or motor impairment 1 1 2 2 4 1 2 13
Social, emotional and behavioural difficulty 10 12 21 14 13 22 27 119
Visual impairment 2 3 1 1 2 2 11
Young Carer 10 12 15 9 20 29 95
Care Experienced Children and Young People
A Virtual Head Teacher took up post in April 2023. The core purpose of the role of the Virtual Head
Teacher is to be relentless in driving improvements in the educational progress and attainment/
achievement of an identified group of young people, including Care Experienced, across Argyll and Bute.
The core function of the Virtual Head Teacher in terms of planning is to ensure that all children have access
to appropriate and timely support achieved by collaborating with relevant professionals to ensure plans are
of a high quality, with impact and outcomes followed up.
Table below shows the numbers of care experienced children in our primary schools across each area of
the Council.
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7
Area Previously Away Home Total
Bute and Cowal 16 19 13 48
HALCO 12 9 4 25
MAKI 20 9 4 33
OLI 18 9 3 30
Attainment of Curriculum for Excellence Levels over time
Curriculum levels are national levels to describe different stages of learning and progress. For most
children the expectation is:
Throughout the Broad General Education, children and young people are assessed and professional
judgements are made by teachers about when a child or young person has achieved learning at a particular
level. This means that they have broadly covered the experiences and achieved the expected outcomes
for that level. In making this decision, the teacher takes into account the evidence mentioned above, and
considers the benchmarks produced by Education Scotland for each level as well as diagnostic feedback
from the National Standardised Assessments (NSAs). Attainment of Curriculum for Excellence Levels
(ACEL) data is collected annually each June by the Scottish Government. The data collection collects
information on pupil performance in four areas, known as organisers. Organisers consist of Numeracy and
the three literacy components: Reading, Writing and Listening and Talking. A combined literacy measure is
also produced based on the three literacy organisers: reading, writing and listening and talking. The data is
collected for pupils at the key stages of P1, P4, P7 and S3.
As an authority, we have made significant progress in raising attainment and closing the poverty related
attainment gap. Authority level data for literacy and numeracy demonstrating increased attainment is
displayed below. Further detail on progress towards closing the attainment gap between those residing
in Quintile 1 and those in Quintile 5 can be found on pages 9 and 10.
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8 
Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels across HALCO schools: June 2021-June
2024
NOTES:
There was no ACEL collection during session 2019/20 due to COVID. 
By June 2024:
 In listening and talking, 87% of P1 pupils in the HALCO area achieved early level, this is
compared with 86% at authority level and 87% nationally.
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9 
 In reading, 83% of P1 pupils in the HALCO area achieved early level, this is compared
with 82% at authority level and 82% nationally.
 In writing, 80% of P1 pupils in the HALCO area achieved early level, this is compared with
80% at authority level and 79% nationally.
 In numeracy, 86% of P1 pupils in the HALCO area achieved early level, this is compared
with 84% at authority level and 85% nationally. 
By June 2024:
 In listening and talking, 90% of P4 pupils in the HALCO area achieved first level, this is
compared with 87% at authority level and 87% nationally.
 In reading, 86% of P4 pupils in the HALCO area achieved first level, this is compared with
81% at authority level and 79% nationally.
 In writing, 82% of P4 pupils in the HALCO area achieved first level, this is compared with
75% at authority level and 4% nationally.
 In numeracy, 86% of P4 pupils in the HALCO area achieved first level, this is compared
with 80% at authority level and 78% nationally.
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10 
By June 2024:
 In listening and talking, 88% of P7 pupils in the HALCO area achieved second level, this
is compared with 85% at authority level and 88% nationally.
 In reading, 83% of P7 pupils in the HALCO area achieved second level, this is compared
with 78% at authority level and 81% nationally.
 In writing, 80% of P7 pupils in the HALCO area achieved second level, this is compared
with 73% at authority level and 76% nationally.
 In numeracy, 84% of P7 pupils in the HALCO area achieved second level, this is compared
with 77% at authority level and 79% nationally. 
Argyll and Bute Stretch Aims Session 2023-24 and onwards to 2026 (Authority Level)
The Scottish Attainment Challenge (SAC) is about achieving equity in educational outcomes, with a
particular focus on closing the poverty-related attainment gap. SAC funding is provided to all of Scotland’s
local authorities to help tackle the attainment gap and support education recovery and improve outcomes
for children and young people most impacted by poverty. The Scottish Attainment Challenge aims to raise
the attainment of children and young people living in deprived areas, in order to close the equity gap.
Attainment Advisors within Education Scotland’s regional improvement teams work with authorities to
identify core attainment measures and specific aims (Stretch Aims) which, informed by local evidence and
data, are identified as local priority areas for improvement. The stretch aims are intended to be both
ambitious and achievable within local contexts and targets are specific to individual authorities. Progress
towards achieving the current stretch aims will be reported on later in 2025.
The Stretch Aims are intended to support recovery from the pandemic and accelerate progress in closing
the attainment gap and include:
 Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels (literacy P1/4/7 combined and numeracy P1/4/7
combined)
The stretch aims for literacy and numeracy identify the percentage of young people who achieve their
expected Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) level:
 An overall attainment target, which includes all young people
 An attainment target for young people who live in the most deprived areas (SIMD quintile 1)
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11 
 An attainment target for young people who live in the least deprived areas (SIMD quintile 5)
 A target to reduce the attainment gap between the most and least deprived young people
The Argyll & Bute literacy and numeracy tables illustrate data from the most recent ACEL collection in 2024
(published December 2024), against the stretch aim for 2023-24 and also indicate the stretch aim targets in
place for 2024-2026.
The year-on-year trend in ACEL data has been positive; in the three-year period between 2022 and 2024
the overall proportions of primary school pupils achieving the expected levels in literacy had increased by
10 percentage points (62% to 72%), while in numeracy there had been an increase of 7 percentage points
(73% to 80%).
The percentage of Quintile 1 (most deprived) young people who achieved their expected CfE level has
increased by 15pp in literacy and 5pp in numeracy between 2022 and 2024. 
Scottish Attainment Challenge - Stretch Aims 2023-26: Literacy
In literacy, the attainment gap between young people from the most and least deprived areas of Argyll &
Bute was 33 percentage points in 2021, by 2022 this narrowed to 27 percentage points and narrowed
further to 13 percentage points by June 2023. At the end of the 2023/24 session the attainment gap had
grown slightly to 15 percentage points, but remains smaller than 2021 and 2022. Argyll & Bute’s target is
to reduce the attainment gap to 10.5 percentage points by June 2025 and to 10 percentage points by June
2026. 
Literacy (P 1/4/7 Combined) Stretch Aim 
Overall SIMD Q1 SIMD Q5 GAP (Q1-Q5)
Stretch Aim
2023/24
71% 70% 81% 11pp
Confirmed Dec
24
72% 68% 83% 15pp
Interim Stretch
Aim 2024/25
73.5% 72.5% 83% 10.5pp
Final Stretch
Aim 2025-26
76% 75% 85% 10pp 
Scottish Attainment Challenge - Stretch Aims 2023-26: Numeracy
In numeracy, the attainment gap between young people from the most and least deprived areas of Argyll &
Bute was 29 percentage points in 2021, by 2022 this narrowed to 18 percentage points and narrowed
further to 14 percentage points by June 2023. By June 2024 the attainment gap had increased slightly to
15 percentage points. This was 2 percentage points below the national gap of 17pp. Argyll & Bute’s target
is to reduce the attainment gap to 13.25 percentage points by 2025 and to 13 percentage points by June
2026.
Numeracy (P 1/4/7 Combined) Stretch Aim 
Overall SIMD Q1 SIMD Q5 GAP (Q1-Q5)
Stretch Aim 2023/24 78% 76.5% 90.5% 13.50pp
Confirmed Dec 2024 80% 73% 88% 15pp
Interim Stretch Aim
2024/25
81% 77.75% 91% 13.25pp
Final Stretch Aim
2025-26
83% 78.5% 91.5% 13pp
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12
The table below outlines the National expectations of when most children and young people may achieve
each level:
CfE Level Stage
Early The final two years of early learning and childcare before a child goes to
school and P1, or later for some.
First To the end of P4, but earlier or later for some.
Second To the end of P7, but earlier or later for some.
Third and fourth S1-S3, but earlier or later for some.
Further information:
National Improvement Framework for Scottish Education –
https://www.gov.scot/policies/schools/national-improvement-framework/
Initiatives to raise attainment and achievement
In response to data and evidence gathered in the areas of literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing, a
range of work has been undertaken in order to drive forward improvement and raise attainment and
achievement across the authority.
Literacy
Literacy work funded by Strategic Equity Funding (SEF) has centred around the Children and Young
People’s Improvement Collaborative (CYPIC) Improving Writing Programme. The impact of this
programme has been significant and has resulted directly in increased attainment in writing in all schools
involved. Training and ongoing support has been provided to practitioners to improve pedagogy and use
of data to secure improvement in writing at first level and across first and second in multi composite
classes. Two teachers who have been involved in the programme are also supporting the delivery and
support for the programme to ensure that a sustainable model of improvement is developed. 33 schools
have been involved since the start of the programme. In Cohort 1; an average of 21-point increase from
attainment at P4 in June 22 and June 23. In Cohort 2; an average of 2-point increase from attainment at
P4 in June 22 and June 23. In Cohorts 3 and 4 combined there has been an increase of 10% in the
number of children assessed by teachers as on track in writing from P3 to P7. In feedback all staff
involved agree/strongly agree that this has improved writing within their class. In almost all cohorts of
children there has been an improvement in writing attainment. A full evaluation of impact on writing will be
completed during this school session.
Numeracy
Whilst it is too early to ascertain the direct impact of our numeracy and mathematics development work on
attainment, progress has been made in a number of identified areas for improvement. These include:
o The creation of the Counting on Excellence framework which ensures a seamless
progression of learning, spanning early to third level outcomes. This provides
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13
teachers in Argyll and Bute schools with a clear and cohesive structure to support
continuity in teaching and learning, enabling students to build a strong foundation in
mathematics and numeracy across the BGE. The framework is designed to complement
the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) and its benchmarks, offering detailed guidance to
teachers that enhances consistency and rigor in mathematics learning and teaching. By
incorporating additional strands, the framework strengthens alignment with national
priorities while allowing for flexible and context-sensitive teaching practices.
o Support for Inclusive Mathematics Education: The expanded framework provides a robust
support system for teachers, equipping them with tools and resources to address diverse
learning needs. By integrating additional strands into the existing structure, it ensures that
learners in Argyll and Bute schools benefit from a comprehensive, inclusive, and innovative
mathematics education that prepares them for future academic and real-world challenges.
This fits with the curriculum improvement cycle as well as recommendations from the OECD
and the mathematics thematic inspection.
o Enhanced Teacher Confidence Through Customised CLPL: The collaborative design and
implementation of a professional learning programme, informed by the latest research and
best practices, ensures tailored professional development for practitioners. Data gathered
around teacher confidence in mathematics pedagogy, particularly in Helensburgh and
Lomond schools as a test of change, demonstrates measurable improvements in teacher
efficacy. This professional growth directly supports improved classroom practices, fostering
better outcomes for learners across the authority.
o Data-Driven Support and Continuous Improvement: Observations in targeted schools,
combined with focused dialogue with practitioners and senior leaders, provide valuable
insights into strengths and areas for development. The coordination of follow-up support by
the numeracy lead, within specified timescales, ensures a responsive and adaptive
approach to improvement. This data-driven strategy empowers schools to address gaps
effectively, supporting consistent progress in mathematics teaching and learning authority-
wide.
Wellbeing: Readiness to Learn
Two nurture teachers are funded through Strategic Equity Funding (SEF) and work has continued, in
collaboration with partners, to progress with the implementation of our strategy for embedding effective
nurture and relationship-based approaches across all establishments. Progress includes:
o Our Children, their Nurturing Education (OCTNE) documents have been
refined and now include an OCTNE Implementation Framework for Bronze to
Platinum. A Self-Evaluation toolkit has also been developed to include How Good
is Our School? 4 (HGIOS4) challenge questions that align with OCTNE. Supportive
documentation has been developed and includes an exemplar Silver Action
Plan, a Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA) exemplar and a bespoke nurture and
relationships-based programme of professional learning for the Argyll and Bute
Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT) programme and the UHI PGDE course.
o Whole-school accreditation has increased with 58 settings currently engaged with
OCTNE, including 6 Partnership Providers, registered. 12 new settings are
attending February 25 leadership training. The current accreditation levels are; 19
Bronze, 11 Silver and 1 Gold.
o The uptake for targeted nurture has increased over the last school session.
Referral for targeted nurture support comes via the link Educational
Psychologist to ensure that involvement is relevant. All pupils referred for
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14 
targeted nurture have remained in in-authority placements. Work has taken
place in 18 schools (22 pupils) and is ongoing in 7 schools (7 pupils).
Universal and targeted work in this area has improved approaches to
embedding the principles of nurture within schools and settings involved,
and for targeted pupils has demonstrated impact in terms of ability to access
the curriculum and understand their own feelings and emotions. This work has
enabled us to exceed our 2023/24 core plus stretch aim. 
School Contacts 
Establishment Head Teacher Telephone
Number
Arrochar Primary School Lynn Wells 01301 702261
Cardross Primary School Kelly Girling 01389 841433
Colgrain Primary School Lesley Watt 01436 673557
Garelochhead Primary School Maria McArthur 01436 810322
Hermitage Primary School Gemma Houston 01436 672949
John Logie Baird Primary School Carolyn Randall 01436 674001
Kilcreggan Primary School Allison Smith 01436 842109
Luss Primary School Darren Craig 01436 860244
Parklands Gwen Gilmour 01436 673714
Rhu Primary School Linda MacBeath 01436 820316
Rosneath Primary School Adele Flynn 01436 831354
St Joseph's Primary School -
Helensburgh
Pauline Walsh 01436 671748 
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL                                    HELENSBURGH AND
LOMOND  AREA COMMITTEE                                                                                                         
ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE                 11 MARCH 2025
SERVICES                     
ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE 
1.0 INTRODUCTION 
1.1 A Roads and Infrastructure standing report was a fixture on Area Committee
agendas throughout the life of the last Council. In the first two rounds of Area
Committee meetings in the new Council feedback was sought on the value of
these updates, and their format and frequency. Generally Members felt having a
standard item was beneficial and it was acknowledged that the Roads and
Infrastructure weekly briefings issued to all members each Friday afternoon
provide for the main sources of live information on current activities. On top of
these briefings there is a bank of resources on the new Member Zone system
which include the weekly briefings, subject specific briefings, ad hoc short
briefings on issues, relevant previous committee reports, operational service
procedures, legislation and Council policies. 
1.2 In the last Council the purpose of these reports was to provide an update on
service activities but since weekly briefings these have largely superseded the
original stated purpose of these reports. 
1.3 On the basis of the above this new format has been agreed through the
December 2022 round of area committees for this standing item. This format
removes duplication for Officers and rather links to existing published
information, with additional updates only in the body of the reports if these are
specifically requested/noted from previous meetings. The report remains as a
standing item and continues to provide the opportunity for Officer engagement at
the committee meetings.   
2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 
It is recommended that the Area Committee: 
2.1 Note and consider the contents of this report. 
3.0 DETAIL 
3.1 Roads and Infrastructure Services provides Members with weekly briefings on
topical service activities which are all available here.  
Page 29 Agenda Item 7

Page 30

3.2 As part of the resources on the new Member Zone system there are various key
documents available in an online library here. 
3.3 There are also additional online resources covering the streetlighting, footway,
surface dressing and roads reconstruction programmes available on the website
here. 
4.0 CONCLUSION 
4.1 This report provides links to existing published information on service activities
and provides for the opportunity for officer attendance and engagement at
committee meetings. 
5.0 IMPLICATIONS 
5.1 Policy – Roads and Infrastructure work to a number of policies across the range
of service areas. 
5.2 Financial – revenue and capital budgets are in place to deliver projects and
cyclic work. 
5.3  Legal – Roads and Infrastructure Services work to a number of different pieces
of legislation such as the Roads Scotland Act 194 and the Environmental
Protection Act 1990. 
5.4  HR – none known. 
5.5  Fairer Scotland Duty: 
5.5.1   Equalities - protected characteristics – where appropriate EqSEIAs will be
carried out to identify any implications. 
5.5.2   Socio-economic Duty – where appropriate EqSEIAs will be carried out to
identify any implications. 
5.5.3 Islands – where appropriate Island impacts assessments will be carried out to
identify any implications. 
5.6. 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. 
5.7  Risk – risk managed through toolbox talks, safety briefings and where
appropriate risk registers – all of the above are monitored through the RIS
leadership and management teams. 
5.8  Customer Service – none known.
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5.9  The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – none known. 
Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services,
Kirsty Flanagan 
Policy Lead for Roads, Transport and Amenity Services, Councillor John
Armour 
February 2025 
For further information contact: 
Stephen Hall, Interim Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services 
Stephen.hall@argyll-bute.gov.uk   
Mark Calder, Project Manager 
mark.calder@argyll-bute.gov.uk 
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Page 33

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL  HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND 
AREA COMMITTEE 
DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC
GROWTH  
11 MARCH 2025 
HOUSING SERVICES ACTIVITY UPDATE - STRATEGIC HOUSING
INVESTMENT PLAN (SHIP) – ANNUAL UPDATE 
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1 The main purpose of this report is to update Members of Housing Services
activity and the delivery of the Local Housing Strategy within the Helensburgh
& Lomond area.  This report will detail the following housing activity:- 
• Housing Emergency 
• Housing Need and Demand
• Homelessness
• Affordable Housing Supply - Strategic Housing Investment Programme
(SHIP)
• Empty Homes
• Private Sector Housing Grant Adaptations
• Private Sector Housing Grant Repairs and Improvements
• Energy Efficiency - Energy Efficiency Scotland: Area Based
Scheme(EES:ABS)
• Local Housing Strategy 
2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
2.1 Members are asked to consider the content of the report. 
Page 33 Agenda Item 8

Page 34

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL  HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND 
AREA COMMITTEE 
DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC
GROWTH  
11 MARCH 2025 
HOUSING SERVICES ACTIVITY UPDATE - STRATEGIC HOUSING
INVESTMENT PLAN (SHIP) – ANNUAL UPDATE 
3.0 INTRODUCTION
3.1 The main purpose of this report is to update Members of Housing Services 
activity and the delivery of the Local Housing Strategy within the Helensburgh
& Lomond area. 
This report will detail the following housing activity:- 
• Housing Emergency
• Housing Need and Demand
• Homelessness
• Affordable Housing Supply - Strategic Housing Investment Programme 
• Empty Homes
• Private Sector Housing Grant Adaptations
• Private Sector Housing Grant Repairs and Improvements
• Energy Efficiency – Energy Efficiency Programme: Area Based Scheme
• Local Housing Strategy 
4.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
4.1 Members are asked to consider the content of this report. 
5.0 DETAIL
5.1 As the Strategic Housing Authority, the Council has a series of important
statutory housing functions to fulfil. A Housing Need and Demand Assessment
(HNDA) is carried out every 5 years which enables Scottish Government funding
to be brought into Argyll and Bute primarily to deliver affordable housing. A
comprehensive revision of the local HNDA was approved as “robust and
credible” by the Scottish Government’s Centre for Housing Market Analysis in
December 2021. The Council also produces a Local Housing Strategy (LHS)
every 5 years. Full Council approved the LHS 2022-27 in December 2021. It is
subject to annual updates, which are published on the Housing Strategy pages
of the Council website.
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The LHS has been developed in accordance with Scottish Government
guidance and local priorities as identified in the HNDA. .This sets out the vision
for Argyll and Bute: “Everyone in Argyll & Bute has access to a suitable,
high quality home which is affordable and located within a vibrant,
sustainable and connected community.” This report details the housing
activity taking place in the Helensburgh & Lomond area. 
5.2 HOUSING EMERGENCY 
In June 2023, Argyll and Bute Council became the first local authority to declare
a housing emergency. A number of key statistics informed the emergency. 
• In 2023 there were just under 3,300 people on social rented housing waiting
lists, representing an increase of 8% since the previous year. 
• The average housing price in 2022 was £206,000 which is 7 times the average
income level in Argyll and Bute.
• 11% of all homes are ineffective stock, with 6% second homes and 4% empty. 
• 42% of the property sales are made to people living out with the Argyll and
Bute area.
• There were 131 private house completions in the last 5 years representing
only 17% of the expected rate.
• Constructions costs have seen a 22% increase in 2022 with island
construction costs significantly higher. This trend is continuing currently. 
• 92% of residents responding to the Housing Emergency survey said that
housing shortage was having an impact on their community
• Of employers who responded to the workforce housing survey, 75% said a
shortage of housing was a barrier to recruiting or retaining staff 
A copy of the Housing Emergency Summit Report held in November 2023 and
associated progress reports are available here 
The housing emergency action plan developed in conjunction with partners at
the Housing Summit has been appended to the Local Housing Strategy
Annual update 2024, and will be fully embedded in to the next Local Housing
Strategy. 
Members requested regular updates on activity to tackle the housing
emergency including a set of metrics, which could be used as a benchmark to
monitor progress. The housing system is complex and wide-ranging; the
following table of statistics and indicators, which were approved by Council in
November 2024, give a balanced representation of the housing system based
on the issues across the housing market. 
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* Consents Figure is June23-March24, & will be corrected for next year 
5.3 HOUSING NEED AND DEMAND 
HOMEArgyll WAITING LIST November 2024 – Active
Applicants (excluding those with 0 points/no defined need)                                                                                                                
Helensburgh
and Lomond
Minimum Bedroom Size Required TOTAL
0/1beds 2beds 3beds 4+beds
226 142 93 36  497 
In addition there were 199 applicants for Helensburgh & Lomond who
received nil points according to the Common Allocation Policy and therefore
would be deemed to have no housing need. 
For Helensburgh and Lomond as a whole the majority of applicants (45%)
require one bedroom and 29% require 2 bedrooms.19% require 3 bedrooms
and just 7% need 4 or more. 
However, to establish actual need, the available supply must be factored
into this, based on the available lets within the RSL stock during a year. 
Applicants per available RSL Let (Pressure Ratios)
Helensburgh
and Lomond
HOMEArgyll
Applicants
RSL Lets 2023/24
(All Landlords)
Pressure
Ratio
497 137 4:1 
HOUSING EMERGENCY - METRICS   
Year
Measures 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Housing Completions – All
Tenures
144  
Planning Consents
Granted
512*  
Resource Planning
Allocation(RPA)
£18.26m  
Resource Planning
Allocation(RPA) spend
Available Mid
2025  
Strategic Housing Fund
(SHF) spend
£1.057m  
Number of Homeless
Applications
492  
Number of Households on
social housing waiting list
3209  
Multiple of median wage
to median house price
5x
(£35k / £175k)  
Number of Registered
Short Term Lets
3031  
Number of Second Homes 2811  
Number of Empty Homes 2364  
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While the pressure ratios are only one factor in determining need and
demand, they are useful indicators of areas where further research and
analysis may be required. 
The fully revised Argyll & Bute HNDA 2021 takes account of a wide range of
factors to determine existing need and future demand for new build housing,
and demographic projections have a critical role in this assessment. Although
the default population projections suggest a significant and continuous decline
across Argyll and Bute, and consequently minimal or zero requirement for
new build housing,  the council has developed ambitious Housing Supply
Targets based on an alternative, positive growth scenario for all areas. In this
instance, 22% of the Argyll & Bute Housing requirement would be apportioned
to Helensburgh & Lomond; and over the next 5 years this could amount to at
least 320 new builds across all tenures for the HMA as a whole. 
5.4 HOMELESSNESS 
The incidence of homelessness decreased in the Helensburgh and Lomond
area in 2023/24 (121 down to 87). 
During 2023/24, there were 86 homeless cases closed in the Helensburgh
and Lomond area.   
The figures below illustrate the number of homeless applications and cases
closed for the period from 2019/20 to 2023/24.   
The main reasons for presenting as Homeless last year were “Asked to
Leave”, “Dispute with household/relationship breakdown non-violent or
abusive”; and “Other action by landlord resulting in the termination of the
tenancy”. There were also a number of cases involving “violent or abusive
disputes”. 
0
50
100
150
200
2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24
Homeless Applications and Cases Closed
2019/20-2023/24
Helensburgh & Lomond Applications Helensburgh & Lomond Cases closed
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Rough Sleeping 
Helensburgh and Lomond experienced an increase in the incidence of rough
sleeping over the same period last year, with 8 cases (+1) in total across the area
reporting that they slept rough the night preceding their presentation and 9 (+7)
reporting that they had slept rough in the 3 months preceding their homeless
application. 
AREA Number of Rough Sleepers in 2023/24
Night Before Application 3 Months Prior to Application
Helensburgh and
Lomond 8 9
Argyll & Bute 33 56 
5.5 AFFORDABLE HOUSING SUPPLY 
This continues to be a very challenging period for the construction sector and
there is ongoing slippage in the new build programme due to disruption and
shortages with materials and staffing. The Strategic Housing Investment Plan
(SHIP) delivered 12 new affordable homes in Helensburgh & Lomond in
2023/24. 
RSL PROJECT Units Funding
Dunbritton
HA
Jeannie Deans,
Helensburgh 12 £2,750,644 
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
1. Termination of tenancy/mortgage due…
10. Dispute with household/relationship…
11. Fleeing non-domestic violence
12. Harassment
13. Overcrowding
14. Asked to leave
15. Other reason for leaving…
2. Other action by landlord resulting in…
3. Applicant terminated secure…
4. Loss of service/tied accommodation
5. Discharge from…
6. Emergency (fire,flood,storm,closing…
7. Forced division and sale of matrimonial…
8. Other reasons for loss of…
9. Dispute with household violent or…
Helensburgh & Lomond Reasons for homelessness
2023/24
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In addition, further sites/projects in the Helensburgh and Lomond area which
are progressing onsite or in early stages of development and will be
programmed in the SHIP for completion in future years include: 
Dunbritton Grant Street, Helensburgh – 14 units; 2025/26
Cardross – 30 units; 2025/26
Helensburgh Golf Club ( 18th Tee) – 16 units; 2027/28
Helensburgh Golf Club (Main Site) – 45 units; 2028/29
Succoth phase 2 – 12 units; 2029/30
ACHA East Clyde Street – 14 units; 2025/26
Additional commitment to 50 property acquisitions, across
whole local authority area.
LINK Luss – 8 units; 2028/29 
5.6 EMPTY HOMES 
In 2023/24 there were 6 private empty homes brought back into use in H&L, 
amounting to 20% all the empty homes brought back into use across Argyll
and Bute last year with assistance of the Empty Homes Officer (30). 
Council Tax Information on Empty Homes
The following table breaks down the numbers of empty homes including those
subject to premium Council Tax charge across the H&L area.  The table does
not include properties which are empty and exempt from Council Tax. The
numbers of recorded empty homes can vary from day to day due to natural
changes and reported numbers are snapshot from November reports.   
Helensburgh &
Lomond 
Council tax data as
at 01.11.24
Number of
properties
on Council
Tax register
Empty
Homes
Properties
subject to 200%
council tax levy
Total  
EMPTY
Helensburgh &
Lomond 12,511 172 129 301 
Council Tax Exemptions
There are also a number of empty properties which are on the Council Tax
register which are exempt from paying council tax.  In Helensburgh & Lomond
there are 218 properties which are empty and exempt from Council Tax. The
categories for empty properties include: 
• Class 2A = Unoccupied dwelling – under renovation (12)
• Class 4A = Properties recently occupied but now empty and unfurnished
(86)
• Class 5A = Living or Detained elsewhere – e.g care home, hospital or
prison (16)
• Class 6A = Deceased owners – where estate has not been settled (93)
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• Class 7A = Dwellings Empty Under Statute  – Closing or Demolition Order
(6)
• Class 19A= Difficult to let separately (5) 
Second Homes 
As at November 2024 there were 156 registered Second Homes in
Helensburgh and Lomond. This figure represents 5.85% of the total number of
Second Homes in Argyll and Bute (2,666). 
Self-Catering Properties
As at March 2024 there were there were 192 self-catering lets on the Rates
register in the Helensburgh & Lomond area 8.7% of the Argyll and Bute total
(2,210). 
Short Term Let Licence 
As at 1st March 2024, there were 314 applications for short-term let licences in
Helensburgh & Lomond. This was 10% total applications (3,031).  These can
apply to wide range of properties and can include home sharing, home letting,
and secondary letting. 
There is a public register for all short-term lets, which can be accessed here. 
5.7 PRIVATE SECTOR HOUSING GRANT – ADAPTATIONS
In 2023/24, there was a total of 17 individual adaptations installed in
Helensburgh & Lomond with PSHG aid.     
5.8 PRIVATE SECTOR HOUSING GRANT – REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS
In 2023/24, there were a total of 16 PSHG repair and improvement grants
completed in Helensburgh & Lomond, (across Argyll and Bute, the total was
41). Total cost of the works was £172,406.83 of which PSHG covered
£59,213.16. 
PSHG ADAPTATION COMPLETIONS 2023-24
HMA Grant
Value
Works
Value
ADAPTATION INSTALLED      
Ramp Stairlift Access Bathroom Adaptation
H&L £87,660 £120,433.50 2 1 1 13
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5.9 ENERGY EFFICIENCY (ENERGY EFFICIENT SCOTLAND: AREA BASED
SCHEME (EES:ABS) 
There were 33 individual energy efficiency measures fitted to 29 properties
across Helensburgh and Lomond in 2023/24 via the Scottish Government’s
Energy Efficient Scotland – Area Based Scheme (EES-ABS), at a total cost of
£126,839.28 with EES-ABS grants in support of this work amounting to
£125,457.02. 
Current estimates of Fuel Poverty are based on Home Analytics data  
(Scottish figure sourced from The Scottish Fuel Poverty Advisory Panel) 
Area Likelihood of Households in 
Fuel Poverty Extreme Fuel Poverty
Helensburgh & Lomond 22% 11%
Argyll and Bute 30% 25%
Scotland (SHCS Figure) 34% 23% 
5.10 Local Housing Strategy (LHS) 2022-2027 
As the strategic housing authority for Argyll and Bute, the Council has a
statutory duty to develop, implement and monitor a Local Housing Strategy
over a five-year planning cycle, based on a robust and credible Housing Need
and Demand Assessment (HNDA) for the area.  Following completion of the
previous Argyll and Bute LHS  (2016-2021) last year, a comprehensive
revision and update of the strategy has been approved by the council and is
due to be formally launched in March 2022. The planning process was based
on a robust process of consultation and stakeholder engagement, which has
been acknowledged as an exemplar model for other local authorities by the
Scottish Government, the CHMA, and the Scottish Housing Network LHS
Forum.   
The revised HNDA was approved as “robust and credible” by the Scottish
Government’s CHMA in 2021, and this has informed the revised Housing
Supply Targets set out in the new LHS. These targets are based on a positive
demographic and economic growth scenario for Argyll & Bute and include
ambitious and challenging Housing Supply Targets for the Helensburgh &
Lomond HMA over the next 5 years and beyond. Progress with these targets
and the new LHS Action Plan will be reported on an annual basis to this area
committee. 
Work has commenced on the preparation of the next HNDA due to be
approved in 2026.
The Local Housing Strategy is subject to annual updates and the 2024 update
can be found in the Housing Strategy pages of the Council website Microsoft
Word - Local Housing Strategy Annual Update 2024 - FINAL as at 170924   
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6.0 CONCLUSION
6.1 This report provides the detail of the Council Housing Services team activity and
an overview of the progress achieved with the Local Housing Strategy Action
Plan in the Helensburgh & Lomond housing market area. There are a variety of
housing issues within the area which are being tackled by Housing Services and
partner agencies with the aim of delivering a functioning housing system which
meets  the needs of the communities we serve. The scale of the challenge is
shown in statistical evidence and the declaration of the Housing Emergency and
the subsequent Housing Emergency Summit has shown that many concerns
are common across agencies and communities. 
7.0 IMPLICATIONS 
7.1 Policy - Complies with approved SHIP and Local Housing Strategy. 
7.2 Financial - None arising from this report. 
7.3  Legal - We have a statutory duty to deliver statutory housing functions 
7.4  HR – None. 
7.5  Fairer Scotland Duty: Positive in terms of delivering affordable housing.  
7.5.1 Equalities - Protected characteristics - none  
7.5.2 Socio-economic Duty - Positive in terms of delivering affordable
housing.  
7.5.3 Islands – Positive in terms of delivering affordable housing on
the islands 
7.6 Climate Change – The strategy and housing service deliver positive
impacts for energy efficiency and climate change. 
7.7 Risk – None. 
7.8  Customer Service – None. 
7.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – The housing activity described in the
report will deliver affordable housing for families with children 
Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director with the responsibility for Development and
Economic Growth 
Councillor Jim Lynch, Policy Lead for Economic Development, Islands and
Rural Communities, Housing 
January 2025
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For further information contact: 
Fergus Murray, Head of Development and Economic Growth 
Fergus.Murray@argyll-bute.gov.uk 
Douglas Whyte, Team Lead – Housing Strategy
douglas.whyte@argyll-bute.gov.uk 
APPENDICES  
Appendix 1 – Extract from LHS 2022 - 2027 (data as of 2020) Helensburgh & Lomond  
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APPENDIX 1 – EXTRACT FROM LHS 2022 - 2027 (DATA AS OF 2020)                               
HELENSBURGH & LOMOND 
Helensburgh & Lomond combines the largest urban settlement in the authority with
a more rural hinterland, and has close links with the Glasgow-Clyde-central belt
region. The hinterland of Lomond falls within the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National
Park planning area and this impacts on the operation of the local housing market.
Over a quarter of house sales (27%) are to purchasers from elsewhere in Scotland.
The area has consistently exhibited high average house prices however it also has
one of the highest average household incomes of the HMAs in Argyll & Bute, and
consequently affordability is actually relatively better than many areas, albeit still
unaffordable to many local residents in absolute terms. This area has a quarter of
the total housing stock within the whole authority area, unsurprisingly; however it has
seen only modest growth, compared to the rest of Argyll and Bute, with only 4%
increase in the number of dwellings between 2015 and 2020. It also has the lowest
proportion of second/holiday homes and vacant properties in the authority (5% of the
total, albeit this is still above national levels; and levels may be higher in the National
Park area of Lomond, which is seen as a significant concern for the Park Plan).
There were 1,538 RSL homes in 2020, almost 18% of the Argyll & Bute total, and
around 4 applicants for every available let. Over 25% of all homeless cases present
here and around 21% of the HOMEArgyll waiting list are seeking to be rehoused in
this area. The committed growth of the population serving the MOD naval base at
Faslane, and the potential impact of ancillary family over time, is also a significant
factor here that will impact on need and demand in the wider housing system. 
Population                                     
Households                                   
Dwellings                                       
Ineffective Stock (%)  
RSL Stock  
Waiting List Applicants  
RSL Lets (2019/20) 
Pressure Ratio  
Lower Quartile House Price 
Lower Quartile Income  
LQ Affordability Ratio   
25,670
11,189
12,171
5%
1,538
524
122
4:1
£92,938
£19,508
4.8 
Helensburgh & Lomond
Key issues for Helensburgh & Lomond HMA:
Increasing the supply of affordable housing remains a priority for this area.                                
Sustaining the strategic partnership with HMNB Clyde also continues to be
essential to address accommodation needs.
Delivering Housing Options services, providing Tenancy Support and pro-
actively preventing homelessness remain primary goals.
Ensuring appropriate specialist provision is available to meet the requirements
of those with particular needs will also be important. 
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL     HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA
COMMITTEE 
DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH             11 MARCH 2025 
HELENSBURGH OUTDOOR MUSEUM - ARTS STRATEGY FUND APPLICATION 
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  
1.1 The purpose of this report is to seek approval from Members for the
application to the Helensburgh Outdoor Museum Arts Strategy Fund from the
Helensburgh Scout and Guide Trust. 
1.2 At its meeting on 13 December 2016, Area Committee agreed to allocate
£55,000 from CHORD surplus funds for the continuation of the Outdoor
Museum.  A Design Panel has been established with the role of assessing
applications and making recommendations to Area Committee for approval. 
1.3 The application was assessed by the Design Panel on 20 January 2025. This
report provides the recommendation from the Design Panel for Area
Committee decision. 
2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 
2.1 It is recommended that Members approve the application from the Helensburgh
Scout and Guide Trust for £1,000. 
Page 45 Agenda Item 9

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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL     HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA                                                          
COMMITTEE 
DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH                 11 MARCH 2025 
HELENSBURGH OUTDOOR MUSEUM – ARTS STRATEGY FUND APPLICATION 
3.0 INTRODUCTION 
3.1 The purpose of this report is to seek approval from Members for the
application to the Helensburgh Outdoor Museum Arts Strategy Fund from the
Helensburgh Scout and Guide Trust.
3.2 At its meeting on 13 December 2016, Area Committee agreed to allocate
£55,000 from CHORD surplus funds for the continuation of the Outdoor
Museum.  A Design Panel has been established with the role of assessing
applications and making recommendations to Area Committee for approval.
3.3 In December 2024, the Helensburgh Scout and Guide Trust applied for costs
towards the manufacturing, installation and engraving of artwork to
commemorate the centenary of the erection of the Scout and Guide Halls in
Helensburgh.
3.4 The application was considered by the Design Panel on 20 January 2025.
This report provides the recommendation from the Design Panel for Area
Committee decision. 
4.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 
4.1 It is recommended that Members approve the application from the Helensburgh
Scout and Guide Trust for £1,000. 
5.0 DETAIL 
5.1 At its meeting on 13 December 2016, Area Committee agreed to allocate
£55,000 from CHORD surplus funds for the continuation of the Outdoor
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Museum.  A Design Panel has been established with the role of assessing
applications and making recommendations to Area Committee for approval.
5.2 The Helensburgh Outdoor Museum Design Panel was re-established in October
2024 after not having met since February 2022.  The Panel is made up of the
Chair and Vice Chair of Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee as well as
representatives from local organisations and the community with experience in
the arts, culture and heritage disciplines.
5.3 There is currently £49,625 available for allocation from the Helensburgh
Outdoor Museum budget.
5.4 Applications have been received and considered by the Panel on a rolling basis,
in line with the Outdoor Museum Arts Strategy Guidance.
5.5 Following a successful application for initial design costs of £375, approved
under delegated authority by the Design Panel on 22 October 2024, the
Helensburgh Scout and Guide Trust submitted a further application in December
2024 for £1,000 towards the manufacturing, engraving and installation of the
artwork. 
5.6 The proposal from the Helensburgh Scout and Guide Trust is for the installation
of a 3D relief plaque 500 x 400mm celebrating the centenary in 2025 of the
erection of the original Scout and Guide Halls in John Street, Helensburgh.  The
plaque will be made of bronze alloy, gun metal, composed of copper 85%, tin
5%, lead 5%, zinc 5%.  It is proposed that the artwork will be installed on plinth
N.C.49 as highlighted in Appendix 3.  This is plinth style E1 as shown in
Appendix 4.
5.7 Full details of the proposed artwork and an image of the proposed design are
provided in Appendix 1.
5.8 The Design Panel considered the application at the meeting held on 20 January
2025 and agreed to allocate the scores noted in Appendix 2.  The Panel agreed
to recommend approval of the application. 
6.0 CONCLUSION
6.1 The Outdoor Museum has been well received both locally and nationally as is
evidenced by the numerous award nominations.  Approval of the recommended
application would allow for the continuation of this cultural asset. 
7.0 IMPLICATIONS
7.1 Policy - The delivery of this project fits with the Council’s Corporate Plan,
Argyll and Bute Outcomes Improvement Plan and the approved Local
Development Plan.  It further aligns with policy for safeguarding our built
heritage and town centre regeneration. 
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7.2 Financial – The Area Committee allocated £55,000 from the CHORD Surplus
Funds for the Outdoor Museum.
7.3  Legal – An Offer of Grant will be issued once a decision is made detailing the
legal conditions of the award.  Funds will be paid subject to submission of the
required documentation at the time of claim.
7.4  HR – The Fund will be managed by the Economic Regeneration Officer, who
will provide support to the Design Panel and updates to the Area Committee.
7.5  Fairer Scotland Duty: 
7.5.1   Equalities - protected characteristics – None. 
7.5.2   Socio-economic Duty - The Outdoor Museum acts as a visitor attractor
to the town centre helping to support local businesses. 
7.5.3  Islands – None.
7.6 Climate Change – None. 
7.7 Risk – The funding is paid retrospectively which reduces the risk that monies
will not be spent in accordance with the conditions of the grant.  Funds will
only be paid once works have been completed and the required claim
documentation has been submitted.
7.8  Customer Service – None.
7.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – None. 
Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director with responsibility for Development and
Economic Growth  
Councillor Math Campbell-Sturgess, Policy Lead for Business Development
22 January 2025                                                  
For further information contact: 
Fergus Murray, Head of Development and Economic Growth 
Fergus.Murray@argyll-bute.gov.uk 
Kirsty Durrant, Economic Regeneration Officer
Kirsty.Durrant@argyll-bute.gov.uk   
APPENDICES
Appendix 1 – Application from the Helensburgh Scout and Guide Trust
Appendix 2 – Table of scores allocated by the Design Panel
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Appendix 3 – Maps highlighting the proposed plinth location
Appendix 4 – Technical drawing of the plinth style proposed 
Appendix 1 - Application from the Helensburgh Scout and Guide Trust
Q1 Tell us about you/your organisation
Name of organisation Helensburgh Scout and Guide Trust
Organisation’s Website Address: N/A
Q2
If you are a branch of a larger organisation or a member of an umbrella body, please
tell us which one.
The Scout Association, Girl Guiding UK
Q3
What is the legal status of your organisation? (If applicable please give registration
No/s e.g. Charity No/Company No.)
Charity No: SCO48934 Company No: 
Q4  If you are applying on behalf of an organisation, how many people are involved in
running your organisation?
Committee
Members
6 Paid Staff
Full Time
0 Paid Staff
Part Time
0 Volunteers 60 Trustees  6
Q5 What ages are the people your organisation works with? 
0-5      6-10      11-16      17-25      26-59      60+  All Ages  
Q6
Please indicate which type of
application you are submitting
Type 1 Development Costs (maximum £500)
Type 2 Total Costs (maximum £3000)
Type 3 Artwork Donation (no funding required)
Q7 What value of grant are you
requesting (£)?
£1,000
Q8
What percentage of the total
project costs (including VAT)
does this represent?
33.3%
Q9 Please provide details of the
sources of match funding.
Donations and fundraising by 1st Helensburgh Scout
Group and Helensburgh Friends of Guiding
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Q10
What is the proposed artwork? (Please describe the form, design, material, method of
fixing and interpretation materials of the artwork. Include details of the durability and quality
of materials and workmanship and how the artwork responds to the surrounding
environment. Please attach any drawings/sketches as required)
3D relief plaque 500 x 400 mm celebrating the centenary in 2025 of the erection of the original
Scout and Guide Halls in John Street, Helensburgh. The plaque will be made of bronze alloy, gun
metal, composed of copper 85%, tin 5%, lead 5%, zinc 5%. It will be attached to the plinth by 4
pegs glued with industrial glue as per the guidance notes P5. Expert workmanship by Drysdale
Foundry, Falkirk and explanatory engraving by MacIntyre Memorials.
Proposed Inscription:
The halls were bought from Singer Factory, Clydebank. The Director lived in Clarendon, now part
of Lomond School. Funding came from the local Scout and Guide Association Trustees and public
donations.
Q11 Please detail the link between the proposed artwork and the wider community.
Scouts started in Helensburgh before the First World War and Guides shortly after. In 1925 they
managed to procure the site in John Street and erect the halls there. It was funded by contributions
from many local citizens and the local Scout Association and local Girl Guide Association. Since
then, several thousand boys and girls have enjoyed the fun, experience and training by both
voluntary movements. This has enhanced their personal development and citizenship of our
country.
The halls also now host many community groups which encourage physical fitness, art, music and
nature.
Q12 Please describe the required positioning of the artwork. (Please include details of the
type of plinth required and how the artwork will be positioned)
We would like to consider plinth N.C. 49 in style E1 as per guidance notes P6 and 7.
The position we are thinking about is on the N/E quadrant of Colquhoun Square in Helensburgh.
The plaque is to be placed on the sloping aspect and the engraved information on the side of the
plinth.
Q13 Please detail how the proposed artwork will be delivered. (Please provide details of
any consultants involved in the project and their role and a timescale for delivery)
We propose to have the bronze relief placed in September or October 2025, final date still to be
arranged. There is a strong possibility that the Deputy Lord Lieutenant will attend.
• Design work – Tom Abernathy, already done.
• Casting – Andrew Drysdale, Drysdale Brothers, Larbert.
• Engraving and fixing – MacIntyre Memorials, Hillington, Glasgow.
We must liaise with the Outdoor Museum as to a suitable date.
Q14 Please detail any maintenance requirements for the proposed artwork.
Minimal maintenance is required for cleaning. A soft wire brush occasionally will suffice.
Q15 What barriers or challenges have you thought about in delivering the artwork and
are there contingency plans in place?
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• Weather in Autumn can be unpredictable.  
• Engraving fixing requires dry weather.  
• Funding arrangement: hopeful of securing grant and not need more fundraising.  
• Illness, members of the committee could change.
• Risks associated with installation process: contractor to take appropriate action. 
FINANCE SECTION 
Q17
Tell us about any other grant or current applications you have made to Argyll and
Bute Council within the past 3 years.  (This should include any contracts you have
with the Council to deliver services)
Grant and Year Description / Amount Successful
2024 Helensburgh Outdoor
Museum
Type 1 application for design
works - £375
Yes          No       Pending  
Q18
Are you applying to any other funders for what you have described in this
application? (If you have a pending application please let us know the outcome as
soon as possible)
Grant Scheme/Funder Description / Amount Successful 
Leslie Sell Trust £1020 Yes         No       Pending  
Q16 Tell us how much money you need in order to fund the project you are applying for
and give us a breakdown.
Item / Activity Net (£) VAT (£)
EG. Appointment of artist to develop and produce artwork. £1,500 
Manufacture  £1,500.00 
Engraving £801.52 £160.30
Fixing Plaque £360.00 £72.00
Additional Works £95.00 £19.00
A Total cost £2,756.52 £251.30
B How much of this total are you funding from your
resources?  
£507.82 
C How much is coming from other agencies? (Donations) £1,500 
D
Total amount requested in this application (Amount
requested D= A-B-C)   Please do not request more than 50% of
the total cost of the project/activity - up to a maximum of £3,000. 
£1,000 
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Appendix 2 - Table of scores allocated by the Design Panel 
Appendix 3 - Maps highlighting the proposed plinth location 
Criteria Allocation of score on a scale
of 1 to 3
Community Link  3
Quality  2
Character  3
Risk  3
Durability 3
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Appendix 4 – Technical drawing of the plinth style 
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL  Helensburgh and Lomond
DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC
GROWTH 
11 March 2025 
2024/25 Active Travel Progress Report 
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 
1.1. This report provides an update to Members on the progress made in 2024/25 in
relation to active travel projects in the H&L Area, informs Members of the
significant changes in Scottish Government active travel funding and seeks
continued support for the projects and wider active travel measures from
Members. 
1.2. Active travel encompasses accessible, everyday Walking, Mobility Assistance
and child prams (sometime collectively termed “Wheeling”) and Cycling.  The
focus of active travel is on accessible provision including those with mobility
impairments. 
1.3. Active Travel can offer significant benefits to the area:
• Access to essential services and employment: In H&L 18% of households
(1,952 households) do not have access to a motor vehicle and are therefore
reliant on public transport and active travel modes.  Within the key
settlements the proportion of households without access to a motor vehicle
is 20% (1,481) in Helensburgh, 19% (120) in Garelochhead, 19% (106) in
Rosneath, 10% (95) in Cardross and 9% (52) in Kilcreggan. (2022 census) 
• Health benefits: being more active reduces the risk of premature morbidity
and death, particularly from diseases related to inactivity. (NHS Scotland)
• Economics: People who travel to shops by walking and/or cycling have a
higher monthly spend than people who travel to shops by private car.
(Pedestrian Pound, 2024)
• Improving safety: high quality active travel infrastructure reduces the
frequency of injuries from collisions with motor vehicles. (Transport
Scotland)
• A number of active travel projects link to schools, offering the opportunity
to increase the numbers of pupils, parents and staff choosing to walk,
cycle or wheel to school.  While focus is improved physical and mental
health, where new active travel infrastructure creates a safe route to school
where one did not previously exist it could reduce the requirement to
provide school transport on safety grounds, thereby creating a revenue
saving to the Council’s school transport budget. 
Page 55 Agenda Item 10

Page 56

1.4. The Council’s Active Travel Team, 1.7 Full Time Equivalent employees, is part of
the Strategic Transport Team within the Development and Economic Growth
Service.  No Council funding is currently received by the Active Travel Team. All
project costs, including internal staff costs, have to be funded via successfully
securing highly competitive external challenge funds. 
1.5. The Active Travel Team work with communities, internal and external
stakeholders across Argyll and Bute to develop and deliver active travel projects
which provide new/improved accessible infrastructure (e.g. paths, cycle lanes)
and behaviour change (e.g. access to bikes, walking/cycle training, promotional
activities). 
1.6. In 2024/25, the Active Travel Team secured £1.4M external funding for the
development and delivery of a total of 16 projects across Argyll and Bute.   
1.7. The Active Travel Team work to source and secure highly competitive funding
from a range of sources, the main of which are Transport Scotland’s Places for
Everyone (PFE) Programme (administered by Sustrans), the Scottish
Government’s Active Travel Tier 1 (Tier 1) and Local Authority Direct Award
(LADA) funds, Transport Scotland’s Active Travel Infrastructure Fund (ATIF),
and HITRANS Regional Active Travel Fund.  It is recognised at a national level
that the Active Travel Team in Argyll and Bute Council secure significantly more
funding, and subsequently deliver more projects, than similar staffed teams in
other Local Authorities. 
1.8. Transport Scotland have informed Officers that, as of 25/26, the funding model
for active travel will change.  The primary change will be the reallocation of the
significant funding previously disbursed via third-sector organisations (such as
Sustrans with Places for Everyone fund) to a single Transport Scotland
controlled Active Travel Infrastructure Fund Tier 2 fund.  The new fund will
remain as a competitive challenge fund and is expected to be significantly
oversubscribed due to the number of high value projects being progressed
across Scotland and will therefore be highly competitive.  Transport Scotland
have also indicated that they will require Local Authorities to provide up to 30%
of the construction cost of projects from non-Transport Scotland derived
sources. 
1.9. In 24/25 Scottish Government behaviour change funding was transferred from
the multitude of third sector organisations to the Regional Transport
Partnerships (RTPs).  This aimed to enable the development and delivery of
behaviour change programmes/activities which are tailored to the specific
requirements of each RTP area.  Officers engaged with HITRANS and SPT to
promoted projects which supported the wider delivery of active travel in Argyll
and Bute.  While this engagement was successful in relation to HITRANS and
resulted in a number of community orientated projects being funded, SPT took a
more competitive approach and focused on funding the national third sector
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organisations which have extremely high overheads and therefore only limited
results were achieved for Argyll and Bute. 
1.10. The Scottish Government committed a total of £185M to active travel in 24/25. 
The Scottish Government’s draft 25/26 budget commits a total of £165M to
active travel in 25/26. 
1.11. Separately, Officers are working to develop an Active Travel Strategy (ATS) for
Argyll and Bute which will set out the policy and strategic context for the
development and delivery of active travel across the whole of Argyll and Bute. 
Subsequent to this, an Active Travel Delivery Plan (ATDP) will be developed
which will identify the specific projects to be developed in order to achieve the
ambition set in the ATS. 
RECOMMENDATIONS 
1.12. It is recommended that the Helensburgh and Lomond members: 
1.12.1. Welcome the progress made to date across a significant number of
active travel projects by the small Active Travel Team. 
1.12.2. Support the continuation of the projects and the submission of future
funding applications to external challenge funds to continue to develop
design and construction stages in order to deliver these projects. 
1.12.3. Support the allocation of the Tier 1 active travel funding element in the
Council’s 25/26 block grant to the development and delivery of
appropriate active travel projects, including those already underway in
H&L. 
1.12.4. Instruct Officers to continue to identify and develop new active travel
projects to benefit local residents, businesses and communities. 
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL  Helensburgh and Lomond
DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC
GROWTH 
11 March 2025 
2024/25 Active Travel Progress Report 
2.0 INTRODUCTION 
2.1. This report provides an update to Members on the progress made in 2024/25 in
relation to active travel projects in the H&L Area and seeks continued support for
the projects from Members. 
2.2. Active travel encompasses accessible, everyday Walking, Mobility Assistance
and child prams (sometime collectively termed “Wheeling”) and Cycling.  The
focus of active travel is on accessible provision including those with mobility
impairments. 
3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 
3.1. It is recommended that the Helensburgh and Lomond members: 
3.1.1. Welcome the progress made to date across a significant number of
active travel projects by the small Active Travel Team. 
3.1.2. Support the continuation of the projects and the submission of future
funding applications to external challenge funds to continue to develop
design and construction stages in order to deliver these projects. 
3.1.3. Support the allocation of the Tier 1 active travel funding element in the
Council’s 25/26 block grant to the development and delivery of
appropriate active travel projects, including those already underway in
H&L. 
3.1.4. Welcome the securing of 24/25 funding from Transport Scotland to
construct the 350m section of cyclepath with Rosneath. 
3.1.5. Instruct Officers to continue to identify and develop new active travel
projects to benefit local residents, businesses and communities. 
4.0 DETAIL 
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4.1. The Council’s Active Travel Team, 1.7 FTE (Full Time Equivalent employees), is
part of the Strategic Transport Team within the Development and Economic
Growth Service.  No Council funding is currently received by the Active Travel
Team. All project costs, including internal staff costs, have to be funded via
successfully securing highly competitive external challenge funds. 
4.2. It is recognised at a national level that the Active Travel Team in Argyll and Bute
Council secure significantly more funding, and subsequently deliver more
projects, than similar staffed teams in other Local Authorities. 
4.3. The Active Travel Team work with communities, internal and external
stakeholders across Argyll and Bute to develop and deliver active travel projects
which provide new/improved accessible infrastructure (e.g. paths, cycleways)
and behaviour change (e.g. access to bikes, walking/cycle training, promotional
activities). 
4.4. In 2024/25, the Active Travel Team secured £1.4M external funding for the
development and delivery of a total of 16 projects across Argyll and Bute.  Further
details of the projects relevant to H&L are presented in Appendix 1. 
Active Travel Funding Model 
4.5. Transport Scotland have informed Officers that, as of 25/26, the funding model
for active travel will change.  The primary change will be the reallocation of the
significant funding previously disbursed via third-sector organisations (such as
Sustrans or Paths for All) to a Transport Scotland controlled “Active Travel
Infrastructure Fund (ATIF) Tier 2” fund.  The new fund will remain as a
competitive challenge fund and is expected to be significantly oversubscribed
due to the number of high value projects being progressed across Scotland and
will therefore be highly competitive.  The new Tier 2 fund is split into 2 sections,
one for “Design” and the other for “Construction”.   
4.6. Transport Scotland have indicated that they will require Local Authorities to
provide up to of 30% of the construction cost of projects under Tier 2 from other
sources. 
4.7. The application deadline for 25/26 projects to ATIF Tier 2 is 21 February 2025
and, at the time of writing, Officers are developing submissions for projects
including the Helensburgh – Cardross – Dumbarton Cyclepath, Helensburgh –
Garelochhead Cycleway and the Rosneath – Castle Caravan Park Cyclepath. 
4.8. The Scottish Government committed a total of £185M to active travel in 24/25. 
The Scottish Government’s draft 25/26 budget commits a total of £165M to
active travel in 25/26. 
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4.9. In 24/25 Scottish Government behaviour change funding was transferred from
the multitude of third sector organisations to the Regional Transport
Partnerships (RTPs).  This aimed to enable the development and delivery of
behaviour change programmes/activities which are tailored to the specific
requirements of each RTP area.  Officers engaged with HITRANS and SPT to
promoted projects which supported the wider delivery of active travel in Argyll
and Bute.  While this engagement was successful in relation to HITRANS and
resulted in a number of community orientated projects being funded, SPT took a
competitive application approach and focused on funding the national third
sector organisations which have extremely high overheads and therefore only
limited results were achieved for Argyll and Bute. 
4.10. Due to the continually evolving funding environment, Officers remain vigilant to
potential funding opportunities and will submit applications for relevant projects
as and when appropriate funding opportunities arise. 
Outgoing (2024/25) Funding Model 
4.11. The Active Travel Team work to source and secure highly competitive funding
from a range of sources, the main of which are Transport Scotland’s Places for
Everyone (PFE) Programme (administered by Sustrans), the Scottish
Government’s Cycling, Walking and Safer Routes (CWSR) fund and Delivery
Resource Fund, Paths for All Smarter Choices Smarter Places (SCSP)
programme, Transport Scotland’s Active Travel Transformation Fund (ATTF),
and HITRANS Regional Active Travel Fund.  Further funding has been secured
for some projects via local community organisations and from willing
businesses.  It is recognised at a national level that the Active Travel Team in
Argyll and Bute Council secure significantly more funding, and subsequently
delivery more projects, than similar staffed teams in other Local Authorities
and/or local authorities with similar populations. 
4.12. The primary external funding route for active travel infrastructure design is
Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone (PFE) programme (which Sustrans
are paid to administer).  The PFE Programme is a competitive challenge fund
structured around 8 project stages; with the 32 local authorities, 7 regional
transport partnerships, two national parks and numerous community groups
across Scotland competing against each other to secure the funding each
project requires.  In 24/25, the Active Travel Team secured £503,350 from the
PFE Programme.  It has been announced that the PFE Programme will by
wound down with a final closure date of December 2025. 
4.13. A minimum of three new competitive funding submissions are required to
complete a project using PFE funding, with competitive applications required, as
a minimum, prior to Stage 0 (Strategic Definition), Stage 3 (Developed Design)
and Stage 5 (Construction).  The full project stages are (0) Strategic Definition,
(1) Preparation and Brief, (2) Concept Design), (3) Developed Design, (4)
Technical Design, (5) Construction, (6) Handover & Close Out and (7) In Use.
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4.14. The Scottish Government Cycling, Walking and Safer Routes (CWSR) fund was
an annual ring-fenced fund which provides the opportunity for Local Authorities
to identify and deliver lower value active travel infrastructure without the level of
complexity and time required by the PFE route. In 24/25 the CWSR fund was
retitled “Tier 1” fund. Also in 24/25, a new distribution methodology was
implemented by Transport Scotland with approval from COSLA which focused
funding on larger urban authorities, the new methodology resulted in a 27%
reduction in the value of funding received by Argyll and Bute Council between
23/24 CWSR and 24/25 Tier 1.
4.15. Transport Scotland’s Active Travel Transformation Fund (ATTF) was launched
in 23/24 and focuses on supporting Local Authorities, RTPs and National Parks
with the additional cost of constructing very ambitious, high-quality active travel
projects. Projects must be fully construction ready prior to submission to the
ATTF. Officers submitted two applications to the 24/25 ATTF which were
shortlisted on the reserve list. In October 2024, 24/25 ATTF funding was
awarded for construction of 350m of path in Rosneath. For 25/26 ATTF is being
retitled “Active Travel Transformation Fund (ATIF) Tier 2 (Construction)”.
Updated (2025/26) Funding Model
4.16. As part of Transport Scotland’s ongoing Active Travel Transformation, the most
significant changes to the active travel funding model are due to be implemented
in 2025/26 to achieve what Officers understand is planned to be the final
distribution model.
4.17. For 25/26 the primary behaviour change funding streams will be via the
Regional Transport Partnerships (RTPs) People and Place programmes, which
the Council can propose/bid projects into for consideration, and the Local
Authority Direct Award (LADA) which is a ring-fenced reclaimable allowance
provided to each local authority by Transport Scotland.
4.18. For 25/26 all infrastructure design and construction funding will be delivered to
local authorities directly from Transport Scotland, under the Active Travel
Infrastructure Fund (ATIF). ATIF replaces a number of previous active travel
infrastructure funding streams, the largest of which was the Places for Everyone
(PFE) programme administered by Sustrans.
4.19. ATIF is split into two ‘tiers’. ATIF Tier 1 which is now provided direct to the
Council as part of the block grant with Transport Scotland monitoring the spend
to ensure it is spent on appropriate active travel related projects as this is used
by Transport Scotland as a determinant of future Tier 1 allocations and if the
Council is eligible for award of ATIF Tier 2 funding. ATIF Tier 2 funding is a
competitive challenge fund which eligible local authorities, regional transport
partnerships (RTPs) and national parks can bid to for larger scale, ambitious
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active travel projects.  ATIF Tier 2 will fund up to 100% of design costs and 70%
of construction costs. 
4.20. Table 1: Changes to relevant Active Travel Behaviour Change Funds
Previous Fund(s) New Fund Notes
Smarter Choices
Smarter Places (SCSP)
Local Authority Fund
Local Authority Direct
Award (LADA)
1. Council given an annual allowance
which we can reclaim from Transport
Scotland following spend.
2. Ring fenced for active travel
behaviour change work.
Smarter Choices
Smarter Places (SCSP) 
Sustrans Behaviour
Change Team 
Cycling UK Bothies and
Rural Connections 
Cycling Scotland
Community Fund 
HITRANS / SPT People
and Place Programme
1. Funding from Transport Scotland
provided to each RTP who can
determine own distribution model or
to take forward projects within RTP.
2. Each RTP decides its own
distribution model.
• HITRANS chose a collaborative
approach which has been very
positive with community orientated
projects being funded.
• SPT chose a challenge fund
approach which resulted in ABCs
top projects not being funded in
24/25.
Smarter Choices
Smarter Places (SCSP)
Community Fund 
HITRANS / SPT People
and Place Programme
– Community Fund
1. Funding from Transport Scotland
provided to each RTP who can
determine own distribution model or
to take forward projects within RTP.
2. Each RTP decides its own
distribution model.
• HITRANS have accepted funding
applications from selected
community organisations
alongside those from Local
Authorities /National Park.
• SPT have chosen to set aside a
portion of the funding and offer
selected community organisations
the opportunity to bid for funding.
Bikeability (Cycling
Scotland)
Bikeability (Cycling
Scotland)
1. Retained as a national project to keep
training standard equivalent across all
areas. 
4.21. Table 2: Changes to relevant Active Travel Infrastructure Funds
Previous Fund(s) New Fund Notes
Cycling Walking and
Safer Routes (CWSR)
Transport Scotland
Active Travel
Infrastructure Fund Tier
1 (ATIF Tier 1)
1. Delivered to Council as part of block
grant.
2. Transport Scotland checking
allocation is spent on appropriate
active travel work in determining
allocations of future Tier 1 funding
and award of Tier 2 applications.
Places for Everyone
(PFE) Design
Transport Scotland
Active Travel
1. Competitive Challenge Fund
approach.
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Infrastructure Fund Tier
2 (Design) (ATIF Tier 2
(Design)).
2. Separate lengthy application for
each project.
3. Must have allocated Tier 1 funding
to appropriate active travel work to
be eligible for Tier 2 funding.
4. Competing against projects
submitted by 32 local authorities, 7
regional transport partnerships and
2 national parks.
Places for Everyone
(PFE) Construction
Transport Scotland
Active Travel
Infrastructure Fund Tier
2 (Construction) (ATIF
Tier 2 (Construction)).
1. Competitive Challenge Fund
approach.
2. Separate lengthy application for
each project.
3. Must have allocated Tier 1 funding
to appropriate active travel work to
be eligible for Tier 2 funding.
4. Competing against projects
submitted by 32 local authorities, 7
regional transport partnerships and
2 national parks.
5. Transport Scotland request that LAs
provide up to 30% of the
construction cost from other
sources.
National Cycle Network
(NCN) (Sustrans
Scotland)
National Cycle Network
(NCN) (Sustrans
Scotland)
1. Sustrans Scotland will continue to
promote and develop the NCN and
receive direct funding from
Transport Scotland (£15M 24/25).
2. The majority of the NCN is owned
and maintained by other
organisations including Local
Authorities, Scottish Canals, etc.
Sustrans own and maintain c.2% of
the NCN in the UK, but are funded
to promote the whole NCN. 
Design guidance 
4.22. Adherence to the latest design criteria for active travel (e.g. Cycle by Design for
cycle projects) will continue to be a requirement to secure Scottish Government
derived funding.  However, the removal of national third-sector organisations
from control of the main active travel funding steams should enable Officers to
apply the guidance in a more flexible and specific manner to local
circumstances.  Utilising adopted design guidance provides a clear framework
for development of designs which are appropriate, accessible, attractive and
safe. 
Benefits of Active Travel 
4.23. 18% of households (1,952 households) in the H&L area do not have access to
any motor vehicles (2022 census) and are therefore reliant on public transport
and active travel to move around. Within the key settlements the proportion of
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households without access to a motor vehicle is 20% (1,481) in Helensburgh,
19% (120) in Garelochhead, 19% (106) in Rosneath, 10% (95) in Cardross and
9% (52) in Kilcreggan. 
4.24. Transport poverty is defined as households and individuals who spend a
significant percentage of their income to make the journeys they need (UK
Government, 2019).  In Argyll and Bute, where a higher than Scottish average of
the population have low incomes (SIMD 2020), the cost of travel is a significant
barrier to a substantial number of the community.  This is highlighted by the
higher than Scottish average number of households have multiple cars but
shorter than Scottish average journey distances to work/study (2022 census),
indicating that a significant number of households own multiple cars to travel
short distances.  Walking, wheeling (mobility aids/child prams) and cycling are
much cheaper than running a car or using public transport, and improving
opportunities to choose to walk/cycle for essential journeys can improve access
to essential services, reduce social exclusion and increase opportunities to
access education and employment. 
4.25. Health benefits of enabling individuals and communities to choose to travel more
actively are well documented and a significant body of research has identified
that having active, healthy lifestyles helps to reduce fragility and reduce falls as
individuals age, and increase social inclusion and accessibility.  In particular,
being more active reduces the risk of premature morbidity and death,
particularly from diseases related to inactivity including cardiovascular
disease, coronary heart disease, stroke, dementia, type 2 diabetes, hip
fractures and cancer.  Active travel also has significant mental health benefits
including increasing social inclusion and reducing depression. This means
those who choose to be more active are less likely to require social care
services in later life which could result in a future saving to the Council or
HSCP (DfT, 2014; CIHT, 2016; Centre for Mental Health, 2016; Scottish
Government, 2018; Dunoon Shaping Places for Wellbeing, 2022; World Health
Organisation, 2022; Public Health Scotland, 2022; Public Health Scotland,
2023). 
4.26. Economics: People who travel to shops actively by walking and/or cycling, while
they spend less per individual visit, make more visits a month and have a higher
monthly spend than people who travel to shops by private car (Pedestrian
Pound, 2024).  Improving public realm and routes to shops for pedestrians and
cyclists can increase trade by up to 40% (Pedestrian Pound, 2024).   
4.27. Improving safety through good design, in particular to protect more vulnerable
individuals, pedestrians and cyclists, reduces injuries from car collisions (Public
Health Scotland, 2022).  Where people choose to travel actively to make a
journey instead of using a private car, this reduces the number of car
movements which makes streets cleaner, improves air quality, reduces traffic
congestion and reduces demand for space to park in key hotspots.
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4.28. A number of the active travel projects link to schools, thereby offering the
opportunity to increase the numbers of pupils, parents and staff choosing to
walk, cycle or wheel to school.  While the main benefits are improved physical
and mental health, such provision may also generate a saving on school
transport provision.  Argyll and Bute Council provide free school transport to
some pupils on safety grounds.  This is where pupils live less than the legislative
minimum distance from school to qualify for free school transport provision but
where there is no safe active travel route to school.  Where new active travel
infrastructure creates a safe route to school where one did not previously exist it
could reduce the requirement to provide school transport on safety grounds,
thereby creating a revenue saving to the Council. 
Active Travel Strategy (ATS) 
4.29. Officers are working to develop an Active Travel Strategy (ATS) for Argyll and
Bute which will set out the policy and strategic context for the development and
delivery of active travel across the whole of Argyll and Bute.  Subsequent to this,
an Active Travel Delivery Plan (ATDP) will be developed which will identify the
specific projects to be developed in order to achieve the ambition set in the ATS. 
5.0 CONCLUSION 
5.1. Significant changes to the funding model in 2025/26 will create opportunities for
active travel projects to focus on local priorities, rather than projects which meet
the aspirations and objectives of national organisations.  However, continued
delivery of new and improved active travel opportunities to the residents,
businesses, communities and visitors in the H&L area will require Members to
commit the Tier 1 active travel funding allocation in the 25/26 Council Block
Grant to the development and delivery of active travel projects. 
6.0 IMPLICATIONS 
6.1. Policy Completion of this project will support the Council’s
Outcomes Improvement Plan outcomes 1: Transport
Infrastructure and 3: Community Wellbeing. The
project also supports achievement of the Scottish
Government’s objectives set out in the Cycling Action
Plan for Scotland (CAPS) and Let’s Get Scotland
Walking - The National Walking Strategy.
6.2. Financial The development and delivery of active travel in Argyll
and Bute is currently solely funded by external funding
applications. To date, the Council has not contributed
any funding to design or capital costs.  Active travel
infrastructure requires maintenance and consideration
is required of commitment of future resources to
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maintain the new active travel infrastructure our
communities are seeking as the external funding
opportunities do not fund maintenance.
Improved active travel provision could reduce the
requirement to provide school transport on safety
grounds, thereby creating a revenue saving.
There is strong evidence that people who are more
active, for example by walking or cycling, have better
physical and mental health and are less likely to
require social care services in later life which could
result in a future saving to the Council or HSCP.
6.3. Legal Continued input will be required from Legal Services to
support any land acquisition required for the creation
of active travel routes.
6.4. HR None.
6.5. Fairer Scotland
Duty: 
6.5.1 Equalities Provision of new and improved active travel
infrastructure and behaviour change options will
provide enhanced opportunities for residents and
visitors to choose to travel more sustainably and
actively by walking, wheeling and cycling.
All new active travel routes are designed to be
accessible and DDA compliant to provide a safe and
accessible route for those with mobility aids including
wheelchairs and parents/guardians with a child’s pram
or buggy.
6.5.2 Socio-
economic Duty
New and improved active travel routes will improve
access to essential services, retail, leisure and
employment opportunities for local residents, with
studies demonstrating those who travelled actively had
a higher monthly spend in local businesses than those
who travel via motorised transport.
The routes will also offer opportunities for individuals
to travel for leisure, again encouraging spend in local
businesses connected by the routes.
6.5.3 Islands A number of the active travel projects are based on
islands, thereby providing the same opportunities for
island residents/visitors to choose to travel actively as
those on the mainland.  Where visitors choose to
travel actively in leu of taking a motor vehicle this can
help reduce demand for the overstretched vehicle
capacity on the ferry services.
6.6. Climate Change  Active Travel is the least carbon intensive mode of
travel.  Providing the opportunity for residents and
visitors to consider an alternative to having to use a
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private car to travel will help lower Argyll and Bute’s
carbon footprint.
6.7. Risk There is a reputational risk to the Council if the
projects are not completed within a reasonable
timeframe.
6.8. Customer
Services  
None.
6.9. The Rights of the
Child (UNCRC)
Active travel is the most accessible mode of travel to
young people, as it does not have any minimum age
limits, does not require any form of licence, is free to
use and is not tied to any fixed timetable.
All new active travel infrastructure is designed to be
utilised by an unaccompanied 12 year old.
Engagement with school pupils indicates that the vast
majority of pupils strongly support the provision of new
active travel infrastructure, even where it would
adversely impact other modes of transport.   
Executive Director with the responsibility for Development and Economic
Growth: Kirsty Flanagan 
Policy Lead for Roads and Transport: Cllr John Armour 
03 February 2025 
For further information contact:  Colin Young    
Strategic Transportation Delivery Officer    
colin.young@argyll-bute.gov.uk    
01546 604275 
Appendix 1: 2024/25 H&L Active Travel Projects
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Appendix 1: 2024/25 H&L Active Travel Projects 
Behaviour Change Projects
Project Outline Programme Detail
Active Travel Promotional
Campaign 
Ongoing [subject to securing
funding]
Promotion of the Council’s new sustainable travel (walking,
wheeling, cycling and public transport) promotional brand
“Better Journeys” including a promotional campaign to raise
awareness of opportunities to travel actively and sustainably
across Argyll and Bute.  External funding has been retained
within the Council by working with the Council’s
Communications Team to develop the brand, campaign
materials including posters and social media clips.
Pedestrian and Cycle Counters Ongoing [subject to securing
funding]
Argyll and Bute Council operate a network of automated
pedestrian and cycle counters with 36 installed across the Council
area. The data from these counters is used to monitor changes in
pedestrian/cycle numbers, including from new routes, and by
partners to support compilation of national statistics. The data is
also publicly available via a dedicated website. 
Infrastructure Projects
Project Outline Programme Detail
Helensburgh – Cardross –
Dumbarton Cyclepath (Phases
1 & 2)
2001 – 2018: designs for 2
different routes developed 
2019: 3rd preferred route
selected via community and
landowner consultation 
2019 – 2020: Concept Design
for new preferred route
Design and construction of a safe, accessible walking and cycling
path linking Helensburgh with the settlements of Cardross and
Dumbarton to the east. Once completed, this path will provide a
safe and accessible alternative to the A814 to enable local
residents and visitors to choose to walk or cycle to access
essential services, shops and leisure facilities.
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2021 – 2024: Developed
Design for new preferred route 
2025/26: Complete Developed
and Technical Designs for new
preferred route [subject to
securing funding] 
2026/27 – 2032: Land
acquisition and construction
[subject to securing funding]
Helensburgh – Cardross –
Dumbarton Cyclepath (Phase
3)
2023/24 – 2024/25: Feasibility
and Concept Design 
2025/26 – 2026/27: Developed
and Technical Design [subject
to securing funding] 
2027/28: Complete statutory
requirements 
2028/29 – 2031/32:
Construction [subject to
securing funding]
Design and construction of a safe, accessible walking and cycling
route linking the centre of Helensburgh with the constructed
section of Phase 1 of the route at Morrisons Supermarket. Once
completed, this route will provide a safe and accessible option to
enable local residents and visitors to choose to walk or cycle to
access essential services, shops and leisure facilities.
Helensburgh – Garelochhead
Cycleway
2019 – 2021: Feasibility and
Concept Design 
2022 – 2024/24: Phase 1
Developed and Technical
The Helensburgh – Garelochhead Cycleway project will design
and construct a segregated, accessible walking and cycling route
linking the centre of Helensburgh to Rhu, Shandon, HMNB Clyde
and Garelochhead.  At the instance of funders, the route has been
split into 2 phases, Phase 1 linking Helensburgh to HMNB Clyde
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Design 
2025/26: Phase 2 Developed
and Technical Design [subject
to securing funding] 
2025 – 2030: Land Acquisition
and Construction [subject to
securing funding]
and Phase 2 linking HMNB Clyde and Garelochhead.
Rosneath – Castle Caravan
Park Cyclepath
2023/24 – 2024/25: Phase 2
Camsail Bay Concept Design 
2024/25: Rosneath Town
Construction 
2025/26 – 2026/27: Phase 2
Camsail Bay Developed and
Technical Design [subject to
securing funding] 
2028/29: Phase 2 Camsail Bay
Construction [subject to
securing funding]
Delivery of a community desired route linking the centre of
Rosneath to the Castle Caravan Park junction along the B833. 
Phase 1 of the route was constructed in 2018, with the phase
within Rosneath town planned for construction in 2024/25 and the
final phase around Camsail Bay being designed in partnership
with the community. 
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL  Helensburgh and Lomond Area
Committee
DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC
GROWTH 
11 March 2025 
Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath Progress Report 
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 
1.1. This report updates Members on the progress made since the previous report to
this Committee on 10 September 2024 in relation to the delivery of a high
quality walking and cycle route linking Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton. 
1.2. Phase 1 & 2: Officers worked with Procurement colleagues undertake a
procurement exercise for a new design team to complete the Developed Design
(Stage 3) and Technical Design (Stage 4) covering Phase 1 (Colgrain –
Cardross) and Phase 2 (Cardross – Dumbarton).  This is necessary to complete
the outstanding items of work which are required to deliver a robust design
package and to satisfy funder requirements. 
1.3. Phase 1 & 2: Following a competitive open tender process via Public Contracts
Scotland, the preferred tenderer was identified as Connected Transport
Planning (CTP).  Due to funding restrictions, a contract was awarded to CTP
covering February and March 2025 to enable initial progress on continuing the
Developed design stage to be made.  Subject to securing appropriate funding,
the procurement has been structured to allow a contract to be directly award to
CTP for 2025/26 to continue the Developed and Technical design stages. 
1.4. Phase 3: Civic Engineers (CE) have continued to developed the Concept
Design for Phase 3 of the project as part of the Helensburgh Town Centre East
(Helensburgh in Motion) project.  It is programmed that the Concept Design
work will be completed by late March 2025 in line with the funders requirements. 
1.5. Phase 3: A community consultation was held between 23 November 2024 to 05
January 2025.  Information material and the survey were available on-line via
the Council’s website for the 6-week period, with posters and flyers distributed to
local shops, library and churches.  The consultation was also promoted via
appropriate social media channels.  Two in-person events were held, at the
Hermitage Academy Christmas Fair on 23 November and at the Helensburgh
and Lomond Civic Centre on 16 December.  Officers and the design team also
attended the Helensburgh Community Council meeting on 28 November 2024. 
1.6. The consultation received a total of 185 responses; with 59% (105) not feeling
safe travelling actively on the A814 at present; 85% (154) believing that
improvements to the area would make people more likely to walk, wheel or
cycle; 79% (143) requested improved cycling infrastructure, 61% (11) more or
safer crossing points and 49% (89) traffic calming measures.  
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1.7. In 2024/25 Officers secured a total of £150,000 from Transport Scotland’s
Places for Everyone (PFE) programme, administered by Sustrans, to enable
progress to be made in relation to all phases of the design. 
1.8. Internally, Officers continue to seek guidance from Legal Services on the use of
the Council’s statutory powers to enforce access to private land for the
necessary surveys (e.g. ecology or ground investigation) where landowner
permission is not forthcoming.  Officers also continue to seek engagement with
colleagues in Legal Services to seek to progress approval from Council to
develop a CPO for the remaining sections of this important route. 
RECOMMENDATIONS 
1.9. It is recommended that the Helensburgh and Lomond members: 
1.9.1. Welcome, subject to securing external funding, the appointment a new design
team to complete development of Phase 1 and Phase 2 designs through
Developed Design and Technical Design stages. 
1.9.2. Instruct Officers, subject to securing external funding, to appoint a design team
to complete development of Phase 3 designs through Developed Design and
Technical Design stages. 
1.9.3. Instruct Legal Services to utilise the Council’s statutory powers as necessary to
enforce access to private land for surveys required as part of the design process
where landowner permission is not forthcoming. 
1.9.4. Work to identify potential sources of construction match funding, estimated to
require a minimum of £3M to complete the route. 
1.9.5. Instruct Roads and Infrastructure Service to adopt all sections of the
Helensburgh – Cardross – Dumbarton Cyclepath once constructed including
those not contiguous with an adopted road, and maintain as part of the Council
Roads Asset Management Plan (RAMP). 
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Helensburgh and Lomond Area
Committee
DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC
GROWTH
11 March 2025
Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath Progress Report
2.0 INTRODUCTION
2.1. This report updates Members on the progress made since the previous report to
this Committee on 10 September 2024 in relation to the delivery of a high
quality walking and cycle route linking Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton.
2.2. Full details of the project, including previous progress is available in the project
update reports previously presented to this Committee.
3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
3.1. It is recommended that the Helensburgh and Lomond members:
3.1.1. Welcome, subject to securing external funding, the appointment a new design
team to complete development of Phase 1 and Phase 2 designs through
Developed Design and Technical Design stages.
3.1.2. Instruct Officers, subject to securing external funding, to appoint a design team
to complete development of Phase 3 designs through Developed Design and
Technical Design stages.
3.1.3. Instruct Legal Services to utilise the Council’s statutory powers as necessary to
enforce access to private land for surveys required as part of the design process
where landowner permission is not forthcoming.
3.1.4. Work to identify potential sources of construction match funding, estimated to
require a minimum of £3M to complete the route.
3.1.5. Instruct Roads and Infrastructure Service to adopt all sections of the
Helensburgh – Cardross – Dumbarton Cyclepath once constructed including
those not contiguous with an adopted road, and maintain as part of the Council
Roads Asset Management Plan (RAMP).
4.0 DETAIL
4.1. The Council’s Active Travel Team, 1.7 FTE (Full Time Equivalent employees), is
part of the Strategic Transport Team within the Development and Economic
Growth Service. No Council funding is currently received by the Active Travel
Team. All project costs, including internal staff costs, have to be funded via
successfully securing highly competitive external challenge funds.
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4.2. In 2023/24 the Active Travel Team secured £1.4M external funding for the
development and delivery of a total of 16 projects across Argyll and Bute, including
the Helensburgh – Cardross – Dumbarton Cyclepath.  This required 19 separate
competitive funding applications to 6 separate funds. 
Funding 
4.3. Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone (PFE) programme has been the
primary external active travel design funding in Scotland for over a decade.  It is
structured around 8 project stages with a competitive challenge fund, with the 32
local authorities, 7 regional transport partnerships, two national parks and
numerous community groups across Scotland competing against each other to
secure the funding each project requires. It has been announced that the PFE
Programme will by wound down with a final closure date of December 2025. 
4.4. Transport Scotland have informed Officers that, as of 25/26, the funding model
for active travel will change.  The primary change will be the reallocation of the
significant funding previously disbursed via third-sector organisations (such as
Sustrans with Places for Everyone fund) to a single Transport Scotland
controlled Active Travel Infrastructure Fund Tier 2 fund.  The new fund will
remain as a competitive challenge fund and is expected to be significantly
oversubscribed due to the number of high value projects being progressed
across Scotland and will therefore be highly competitive.   
4.5. Transport Scotland have confirmed that ATIF Tier 2 funding will continue to
follow the same 8–stage design and delivery process as the previous PFE
Programme.  The project stages are (0) Strategic Definition, (1) Preparation and
Brief, (2) Concept Design), (3) Developed Design, (4) Technical Design, (5)
Construction, (6) Handover & Close Out, and (7) In Use. 
4.6. While the design work has, to date, been funded by jointly by the Strathclyde
Partnership for Transport (SPT) Capital Programme and Transport Scotland’s
PFE programme, the decision to de-fund the SPT Capital Programme in 24/25
results in the project being fully reliant on securing 24/25 PFE funding or internal
Council funding in order to continue work to complete the outstanding design
requirements. 
4.7. In 24/25, Officers secured £150,000 from the PFE Programme to continue
design work in relation to all 3 phases of the Helensburgh – Cardross –
Dumbarton Cyclepath project. 
4.8. Officers have applied to Transport Scotland’s 25/25 ATIF Tier 2 fund to enable
design work to continue to complete Developed and Technical design for all
sections of the project.  Transport Scotland have stated they aim to confirm
25/26 funding awards by April 2025, subject to funding. 
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Match Funding 
4.9. The 25/26 application guidance for the new Transport Scotland Active Travel
Infrastructure Fund Tier 2 for construction ready projects states that all projects
submitted for construction funding will require to provide match funding for a
minimum of 30% of the 25/26 construction cost from non-Transport Scotland
derived sources. 
4.10. While full construction costs are still to be determined, based on similar projects
elsewhere it is recommended Members identify construction match funding of at
least £3M to complete the cyclepath. 
4.11. Phasing construction over a number of financial years will reduce the level of
match funding the Council must secure each financial year, however this will result
in a longer construction programme.  Accelerating the construction programme
will require additional match funding to be secured, from internal and/or external
sources, which could prove challenging given the current economic climate. 
4.12. At present no construction match funding has been secured.  It is likely to be
beneficial to the project if sources of construction match funding could be secured
at an early stage, including consideration of any internal Council funds which
could be allocated to the delivery of this priority project. 
Design 
Phase 1 Colgrain to Cardross & Phase 2 Cardross to Dumbarton 
4.13. Phase 1 & 2: Officers worked with Procurement colleagues undertake a
procurement exercise for a new design team to complete the Developed Design
(Stage 3) and Technical Design (Stage 4) covering Phase 1 (Colgrain –
Cardross) and Phase 2 (Cardross – Dumbarton).  This is necessary to complete
the outstanding items of work which are required to deliver a robust design
package and to satisfy funder requirements. 
4.14. Phase 1 & 2: Following a competitive open tender process via Public Contracts
Scotland, the preferred tenderer was identified as Connected Transport
Planning (CTP).  Due to funding restrictions, a contract was awarded to CTP for
February and March 2025 to enable initial progress on continuing the Developed
design stage to be made.  Subject to securing appropriate funding, the
procurement has been structured to allow a contract to be directly award to CTP
for 2025/26 to continue the Developed and Technical design stages. 
Land Access 
4.15. A key element of the outstanding design deliverables are on-site survey work,
including Ecological surveys and Ground Investigation (GI) surveys.  When
previously contacted, a number of landowners were willing to give permission for
the necessary surveys.  However, a significant minority of landowners declined
to give permission.  While it is planned that all landowners will be re-contacted
by the new CTP design team, it may be necessary for the Council to use its
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statutory powers to require landowners who do not voluntarily provide the
access required for surveys. 
4.16. At time of writing, Officers continue to continue to seek guidance from Legal
Services on the use of the Council’s statutory powers to enforce access to
private land for the necessary surveys where landowner permission is not
forthcoming. 
Phase 3 Helensburgh Town 
4.17. Phase 3: Civic Engineers (CE) have continued to developed the Concept
Design for Phase 3 of the project as part of the Helensburgh Town Centre East
(Helensburgh in Motion) project.  It is programmed that the Concept Design
work will be completed by late March 2025 in line with the funders requirements. 
4.18. A community consultation was held between 23 November 2024 to 05 January
2025.  Information material and the survey were available on-line via the
Council’s website for the 6-week period, with posters and flyers distributed to
local shops, library and churches.  The consultation was also promoted via
appropriate social media channels.  Two in-person events were held, at the
Hermitage Academy Christmas Fair on 23 November and at the Helensburgh
and Lomond Civic Centre on 16 December.  Officers and the design team also
attended the Helensburgh Community Council meeting on 28 November 2024. 
The consultation received a total of 185 responses. 
4.19. Key results are presented below. 
Daily, 30%
Several time a
week, 43%
Once a week,
11%
Rarely, 7%
Once a month,
6% Never, 3%
How often would you engage with the identified
route?
Daily
Several time a
week
Once a week
Rarely
Once a month
Never
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Yes
85%
No
10%
Unsure
5%
Do you believe improvements to this area will
make people more likely to walk, wheel, cycle
etc?
Yes
No
Unsure
Improved cycling
infrastructure
24%
Traffic calming
measures
15%
More rest areas /
seating
9%
Wayfinding /
signage
10%
More, or safer
crossing points
19%
Bicycle parking or
storage
11%
More, or
improved drop
kerbs
10%
I don't think this route needs anything
Improvements Required
Improved cycling infrastructure Traffic calming measures
More rest areas / seating Wayfinding / signage
More, or safer crossing points Bicycle parking or storage
More, or improved drop kerbs I don't think this route needs anything
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Land Acquisition 
4.20. The delay in award of 2024/25 funding and the requirement to tender for a new
design team to complete the design resulted in a hiatus in relation to providing
information requested by landowners including, for example, detailed drainage
designs.  Officers have written to affected landowner to inform them of the
appointment of CTP as the design team. 
4.21. Officers continue to engage with colleagues in Legal Services to seek them to
commence the necessary documentation to develop a CPO for approval from
Council for the remaining sections of this important route. 
Construction (stage 5) 
Cardross Rail Station to Geilston Burn 
4.22. Cardross Rail Station to Geilston Burn.  The Council’s Roads and Infrastructure
Service have completed installation of most elements of the cyclepath through
Cardross Park, with only a small amount of fencing still to be installed. 
4.23. With the changes to the active travel funding model for 24/25 onwards, it is
expected that the costs for the remaining fencing work will require to be covered
from, as yet to be identified, internal Council budgets. 
4.24. To protect the public, the bridge over the Geilston Burn has been fenced off until
access is agreed to further land on the west side of the Burn to construct the
path through to an accessible destination. 
Yes
26%
No
59%
Unsure
15%
Do you feel safe when engaging in active travel
on the identified route at present?
Yes
No
Unsure
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Risk 
4.25. Risk refers to events which have not yet happened but which could impact on
the project if they were to happen.  A risk can be negative or positive to the
project.  Risks are identified through the lifetime of the project and, where
possible, mitigation is planned to minimise negative impacts or maximise
positive impacts.  As risks evolve relatively slowly through the lifetime of a
project, it is not expect that the tables below will alter significantly within the
current stage of work. 
4.26. Project risks relate to risks which could affect the overall project.  Table 1
provides the top 5 identified project risks and planned mitigation. 
Table 1: Selected Project Risks
Risk Risk Description Risk Level Mitigation
Land
acquisition
Inability to secure
agreement for land required
within an acceptable
timescale and cost.
High 1. Engagement with landowners to
gain acceptance of design.
2. Use of Council’s Estates Team to
lead land acquisition.
3. Consideration of option of a CPO.
Funding Inability to secure necessary
funding to pay of either (a)
design work; and/or, (b)
construction costs.
Medium 1. Close engagement with external
funders to ensure project meets
their funding requirements.
2. Officers continue to explore
potential alternative funding
sources.
3. Early engagement with Members
to identify potential sources of
construction match funding.
Programme Inability to meet challenging
programme timeline.
High 1. Regular review of programme.
2. Work with key stakeholders to
understand programme drivers
and barriers.
3. Establish realistic timescales for
each package of work.
Community
support
Loss of community support
for the project.
Low 1. Consult the community on key
design decisions as appropriate.
2. Seek to deliver project which
meets community’s key
requirements.
3. Keep community informed via
project updates at appropriate
times, including publicly available
quarterly committee reports.
Funder
requirements
Failure to meet external
funder requirements,
thereby losing funding.
Medium 1. Engage with funders to fully
understand their requirements.
2. Ensure project outcomes/outputs
meet funders’ requirements.
3. Review funding options regularly to
ensure funding sought/secured is
most appropriate to the project. 
4.27. Design risk refers to risk that the design fail to meet the required standards
and/or design conditions imposed by external factors, for example
environmental requirements. Design risks, if allowed to occur, can become
issues which may mean the project design has to be changed, which can
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cause delays and cost increases. Defects or failures in the design can also
result in an increase in future maintenance costs.  Table 1 provides the top 5
identified design risks and planned mitigation. 
Table 2: Selected Design Risks
Risk Risk Description Risk Level Mitigation
Ground
Conditions
Lack of Ground
Investigation (GI) limits
understanding of the
ground conditions the
route will be constructed
over.
High 1. Design route to be as robust as
practicable.
2. Undertake Ground Investigation
works at earliest practicable date.
Ecological
Impacts
Working adjacent to the
Inner Clyde SSSI and
RAMSAR site results in
additional ecological
requirements which the
designs must meet. 
High 1. Engage with regulators, e.g.
NatureScot, at early stage in design.
2. Undertake comprehensive
ecological surveys to inform design.
3. Develop full Habitat Regulations
Appraisal to ensure ecological
requirements taken into account in
design.
Drainage Constructed at the foot of
the slope, the design will
require to cater for all run-
off and drainage from the
slopes above, while
satisfying regulatory
requirements.
Medium 1. Develop drainage designs through
design process.
2. Engage with regulators, e.g. SEPA,
at early stage in design.
3. Engage with landowners, as
repository of knowledge of existing
conditions, during design
development.
Flood Risk The route is close to and,
in locations, within areas
identified as at risk from 1
in 200 year flood events.
Medium 1. Develop flood risk assessment at
early stage in design process to
identify key areas of risk.
2. Keep flood risk assessment under
review through design process.
3. Design of cyclepath to take account
of flood risk where appropriate.
Proximity to
railway
The majority of the route is
in proximity to the live
railway and requires to
ensure the designs do not
negatively impact on the
railway.
Medium 1. Early engagement with Network Rail
to understand their safety and
operational requirements.
2. Seek to agree ‘standard’ approach
to mitigating safety and operation
requirements which can be applied
to all or most of route.
3. Review of designs to ensure railway
safety and operational risk is
mitigated appropriately. 
Landowner Engagement 
4.28. Landowner searches for Phase 1 (Moss Road, Colgrain to Cardross) have
identified the land is held by 5 landowners.  The preferred route for Phase 2 (Ferry
Road, Cardross to Dumbarton) has a total of 6 landowners identified on it. 
4.29. Previous discussions with landowners has confirmed they wish to provide the
least land practical to deliver the path.  As such, progression of land acquisition
requires designs to be finalised in order to firmly identify the necessary land.  Once
the design process has been completed, the Council’s Estates Team will require
to be engaged to progress land acquisition.
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4.30. Engagement with landowners along the route are driven by progress with design
work which has resulted in an irregular pattern of landowner contact.  It is
understood that, particularly over the long timeline this project has been in
development, irregular contact can result in uncertainty around the Council’s
intentions and likelihood of the project progressing.  It is intended that, with the
appointment of the CTP to complete the design work, more regular contact with
landowners will be attained as the design is progressed and, once the design is
completed, with the Council’s Estates Team in order to seek a negotiated land
acquisition. 
Maintenance 
4.31. It is a requirement of the external funders that a written maintenance plan
including confirmation of how this will be funded and delivered is developed as
part of the design process.  As such, Members require to decide how the future
maintenance of the cyclepath, including sections of route already in place, will be
delivered.  At present, the Council does not receive any funding for the
maintenance of cyclepaths and none of the current external funding sources
secured through competitive bidding for active travel include maintenance as an
eligible cost.  This anomaly has been repeatedly raised by Officers with Transport
Scotland Officials and it is recognised to be inconsistent with the Scottish
Government’s commitments regarding capital funding for active travel projects. 
4.32. Officers have suggested routine maintenance of the cyclepath as a potential role
for local community group volunteers, for example cutting back vegetation /
mowing the grass.  Similar maintenance work is undertaken by community groups
for cyclepaths in other locations.  However, this suggestion has, to date, not been
positively received by the community.  As such, Members require to consider
alternative options for the long-term maintenance of the path. 
4.33. The Roads and Infrastructure Service are the single service within the Council
which includes infrastructure maintenance teams appropriately trained and
qualified to undertake maintenance of cyclepaths. While it is acknowledged these
teams are already near capacity delivering the Roads and Infrastructure Service
commitments and that the Roads and Infrastructure Service has previously stated
they do not wish to adopt sections of cyclepath remote from the public road, as
the only service within the Council with the appropriate teams to maintain a
cyclepath, it is recommended that Members instruct Roads and Infrastructure
Service to adopt every section of the cyclepath as it is constructed including those
sections remote from the public road. 
Programme 
4.34. Appendix 1 provides the current programme of the key stages and forecast
timescales for each section of the Phase 1: Helensburgh to Cardross section of
the Cyclepath; Phase 2: Cardross to Dumbarton; and, Phase 3: Helensburgh:
Hermitage Academy to Town Centre. 
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5.0 CONCLUSION 
5.1. Completion of the Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath will provide
a dedicated, high quality, accessible walking and cycle route linking
Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton.  This route will provide opportunities for
all in the Helensburgh – Cardross – Dumbarton corridor to travel more
sustainably and actively by walking and cycling.  This will provide a safe
alternative to having to use a private car to travel between these communities
and help lower Argyll and Bute’s carbon footprint. Funding for these works has
been secured from our key active travel partners with further bids being
developed to enable the design and construction of further sections of the
cycleway as and when land acquisition has been concluded. 
5.2. The delivery of the Helensburgh – Cardross – Dumbarton Cyclepath is
dependent on completing the design work, securing highly competitive external
challenge funding, committing appropriate match funding and securing access to
private land for the route. 
6.0 IMPLICATIONS 
6.1. Policy Completion of this project will support the Council’s
Outcomes Improvement Plan outcomes 1: Transport
Infrastructure and 3: Community Wellbeing. The
project also supports achievement of the Scottish
Government’s objectives set out in the Cycling Action
Plan for Scotland (CAPS) and Let’s Get Scotland
Walking - The National Walking Strategy.
6.2. Financial The design, construction and land purchase will be
funded by external competitive funding applications.
External funding is not currently available to cover
maintenance costs.  To date, the Council has not
contributed any funding to design or capital costs.  
There is strong evidence that people who are more
active, for example by walking or cycling, have been
physical and mental health and are less likely to
require social care services in later life which could
result in a future saving to the Council or HSCP.
6.3. Legal Continued input will be required from Legal Services to
support contractual agreements and land purchase
including a CPO should this be deemed necessary.
6.4. HR None.
6.5. Fairer Scotland
Duty: 
6.5.1 Equalities Completion of this project will provide opportunities for
all in the Helensburgh – Cardross – Dumbarton
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corridor to travel more sustainably and actively by
walking, wheeling and cycling.
The route has been designed to be DDA compliant
and will provide a safe and accessible route for those
with mobility aids including wheelchairs and
parents/guardians with a child’s pram or buggy.
6.5.2 Socio-
economic Duty
The route, once completed, will offer residents the
opportunity to choose to travel using active travel,
which are lower cost than alternative modes of
transport.  The route will also improve access to
essential services, retail, leisure and employment
opportunities for residents living along the route, with
studies demonstrating those who travelled actively had
a higher monthly spend in local businesses than those
who travel via motorised transport.
The path will also offer opportunities for individuals to
travel for leisure, again encouraging spend in local
businesses along and connected by the route.
6.5.3 Islands There are no adverse impacts.
6.6. Climate Change  Active Travel is the least carbon intensive mode of
travel.  Providing the opportunity for residents and
visitors to consider an alternative to having to use a
private car to travel between these communities will
help lower Argyll and Bute’s carbon footprint.
6.7. Risk There is a reputational risk to the Council if the project
is not completed within a reasonable timeframe.
6.8. Customer
Services  
None.
6.9. The Rights of the
Child (UNCRC)
Active travel is the most accessible mode of travel to
young people, as it does not have any minimum age
limits, does not require any form of licence, is free to
use and is not tied to any fixed timetable.
All new active travel infrastructure is designed to be
utilised by an unaccompanied 12 year old.
Engagement feedback demonstrates even stronger
support for the delivery of the Helensburgh – Cardross
– Dumbarton Cyclepath from younger members of the
community than the already high overall level of
community support. Wider engagement with school
pupils indicates that the vast majority of pupils strongly
support the provision of new active travel
infrastructure, even where it would adversely impact
other modes of transport.   
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Executive Director with the responsibility for Development and Economic
Growth: Kirsty Flanagan 
Policy Lead for Roads, Transport and Amenity, Councillor John Armour 
03 February 2025                                                  
For further information contact:   
Fergus Murray, Head of Development and Economic Growth 
Fergus.murray@argyll-bute.gov.uk 
Colin Young, Strategic Transportation Delivery Officer
Colin.Young@argyll-bute.gov.uk     
Appendix 1: Helensburgh, Cardross & Dumbarton Cyclepath Programme
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Appendix 1: Helensburgh, Cardross & Dumbarton Cyclepath Programme 
Activity
2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 2029/30 2030/31 2031/32 2032/33
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Funding Applications                                                
Phase 1: Helensburgh to Cardross                                    
Route Design: Helensburgh to Cardross                                                
Land Purchase Negotiations: Helensburgh to Cardross                                                
CPO Process (if required):                                                
- Provide CPO recommendation to Council                                    
- Develop CPO                                                
- Gain Full Council approval for CPO                                                
- Advertise CPO                                    
- Lodge CPO with Scottish Government                                                
- CPO Process                                                
Construction: Helensburgh to Cardross                                                
Construction of Helensburgh to Cardross Phase 1
(Cardross Station to Geilston Burn)                                                
Construction of Helensburgh to Cardross Phase 2
(assuming negotiated acquisition)                                                
Construction of Helensburgh to Cardross Phase 3
(assuming Compulsory Purchase Order required)                                                
Construction of Helensburgh to Cardross Phase 4
(assuming Compulsory Purchase Order required)                                                
Phase 2: Cardross to Dumbarton                                    
Route Design: Cardross to Dumbarton                                                
Land Purchase Negotiations: Cardross to Dumbarton                                                
CPO Process (if required):                                                
- Provide CPO recommendation to Council                                    
- Develop CPO                                                
- Gain Full Council approval for CPO                                                
- Advertise CPO                                    
- Lodge CPO with Scottish Government                                                
- CPO Process                                                
Construction: Cardross to Dumbarton                                                
Construction of Cardross to Dumbarton Phase 1
(assuming negotiated acquisition)                                    
Construction of Cardross to Dumbarton Phase 2
(assuming negotiated acquisition)                                    
Construction of Cardross to Dumbarton Phase 3
(assuming Compulsory Purchase Order required)                                                
Construction of Cardross to Dumbarton Phase 4
(assuming Compulsory Purchase Order required)                                                
Helensburgh: Hermitage Academy to Town Centre                                    
Community Consultation & Route Identification                                    
Route Design         
Land Access Negotiations (if required)                                   
Redetermination Order(s) / Traffic Regulation Order(s)                                    
Construction of route from Hermitage Academy to Helensburgh Town
Centre Phase 1                                    
Construction of route from Hermitage Academy to Helensburgh Town
Centre Phase 2                                                 
Colour Key (Responsibilities / Lead): 
Green: Strategic Transportation (Development and Economic Growth) 
Blue: Road and Infrastructure Service 
Orange: Estates Service 
Red: Legal 
Purple: External to Council (e.g. Scottish Government)
Negotiated
access
Negotiated
access
If no private
land required
If no private land
required
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Page 87

Page 87 Agenda Item 12

Page 88

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Page 89

Indicator Responsible Person Reported Page
COI - Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund Fergus Walker A&B only 3
COI - Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following
our support and intervention Lee Roberts A&B only 4
Number of parking penalty notices issued Hugh O'Neill Area 5
Car parking income to date (cumulative) Hugh O'Neill Area 6 - 7
Number of dog fouling complaints Tom Murphy Area 8
COI - Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional
tracking and monitoring plans in place Louise Chisholm A&B only 9
COI - Provide quality meals within cost margins to all pupils Christine Boyle A&B only 10
Maximise the percentage of 16-19 year olds participating in education, training or employment Jennifer Crocket Area 11
2024/25 FQ3 Helensburgh and Lomond Performance Report
The information presented is a summary of the agreed measures.
Unless stated otherwise, performance is presented at both Area and Council-wide levels.
The measure shows the performance against target for the current previous three reporting periods with an explanation of performance trend.
Where appropriate a trend line has been added to illustrate movement in 'Actual' over the reporting period.
Corporate Outcome: People live active, healthier and happier lives
Corporate Outcome: People live in safer and stronger communities
Corporate Outcome: Children and young people have the best possible start
Corporate Outcome: Education, skills and training maximises opportunities for all
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#
Indicator Responsible Person Reported Page
Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum Kelly Ferns Area 12
Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days Peter Bain Area 13 - 14
Average number of weeks to determine householder planning applications Peter Bain Area 15 - 16
COI - Number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period Morven Macintyre A&B only 17
COI - Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the award of contracts via the procurement
portal Anne MacColl-Smith A&B only 18
COI - Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally Anne MacColl-Smith A&B only 19
Percentage of street lighting faults repaired within 10 days Tom Murphy Area 20
Number of waste collection complaints Tom Murphy Area 21
COI (part) - Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered John Blake Area 22 - 23
COI - Number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill John Blake A&B only 24
COI - LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) Tom Murphy Area 25
COI - Teacher sickness absence Jennifer Crocket (B&C and MAKI)
Wendy Brownlie (H&L and OLI) Area 26
COI - LGE staff (including non-Teacher) sickness absence Carolyn Cairns Area 27
COI - Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts Robert Miller A&B only 28
Corporate Outcome: We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth
Corporate Outcome: Making it happen
Corporate Outcome: Our economy is diverse and thriving
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 95.3% 79.7% -15.6% Red - Actual
below Target
As at 31 December 2024 , our expenditure stands at £423,302. This represents an underspend of £107,914 of our budgeted
profiled amount. To date the number of applications is down by 10% compared to the same period last year, however the
average award amount has increased by almost £50. As in previous years we expect an increase in both applications and
awards in the final quarter of this year.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 138.2%
2023/24 FQ4 128.6%
2024/25 FQ1 94.0%
2024/25 FQ2 72.9%
2024/25 FQ3 79.7%
Corporate Outcome - People live active, healthier and happier lives
COI - Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund
Responsible Person: Fergus Walker
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for FQ3 is lower than the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
As of 30 September 2024, our expenditure stands at £258,079. However as our confirmed budget allocation has increased to
£708,284 which includes £458,284 from the Scottish Government programme fund and £250,000 provided by the Council to
address cost pressures. Therefore this represents an underspend of £96,065 to date. The number of applications to the fund
is down by 11% in this quarter, however the average amount of award is higher compared to last year. As the next 6 months
can be the most challenging for our vulnerable claimants we expect increases in both applications and spend going forward.
3
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 100% 100% 0% Green - Actual
meets Target
This is a voluntary survey with no obligation for clients to respond either in full or in part. It is also common for incomplete
returns to be received. In FQ3 2024/25, 17 survey forms were distributed to clients. 9 were returned. Of these 9 returns, 8
responded to the question relating to being better able to deal with their financial problems. Of these 8 respondents, 8
responded positively, whilst 0 responded negatively. Accordingly, 100% of clients that responded were positive about their
experience i.e. no negative comments or responses were reported.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 100%
2023/24 FQ4 100%
2024/25 FQ1 100%
2024/25 FQ2 100%
2024/25 FQ3 100%
Actual trend line
This is a voluntary survey with no obligation for clients to respond either in full or in part. It is also common for incomplete
returns to be received. In FQ2 2024/25, 14 survey forms were distributed to clients. 4 were returned. Of these 4 returns, 4
responded to the question relating to being better able to deal with their financial problems. Of these 4 respondents, 4
responded positively, whilst 0 responded negatively. Accordingly, 100% of clients that responded were positive about their
experience i.e. no negative comments or responses were reported.
Corporate Outcome - People live active, healthier and happier lives
COI - Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention
Responsible Person: Lee Roberts
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for FQ3 meets the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L No Target 296 N/A N/A Down compared to previous FQ3, however, this may be down to locals and visitors becoming used to the Luss Traffic
Reuglation Order (as it beds in) or the generally poor weather.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 413
2023/24 FQ4 468
2024/25 FQ1 896
2024/25 FQ2 1,426
2024/25 FQ3 296
2024/25 FQ3 A&B No Target 968 N/A N/A Decrease on previous FQ3 but within general range.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 1,015
2023/24 FQ4 1,196
2024/25 FQ1 1,763
2024/25 FQ2 2,302
2024/25 FQ3 968
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of parking penalty notices has decreased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
There is a substantial increase since last year's FQ2, this is mainly due to the extra patrols in the Luss area on the back of the
Traffic Regulation order being progressed and enforced as per the wishes of local Luss Village residents.
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of parking penalty notices has decreased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
There has been a large increase in PCNs for the H&L area, this is thought in the most part to be because extra warden patrols
have been in the Luss area with the new Traffic Regulation order.
Corporate Outcome - People live in safer and stronger communities
Number of parking penalty notices issued
Responsible Person: Hugh O'Neill
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L £43,758 £48,621 £4,863 Green - Actual
exceeds Target Income exceeds target.
Period Target Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 £106,037 £178,233
2023/24 FQ4 £128,769 £202,533
2024/25 FQ1 £65,925 £51,862
2024/25 FQ2 £73,515 £83,862
2024/25 FQ3 £43,758 £48,621
£14,754
£31,955
£1,882
£22
£8
£0
£48,621
Income Collected During FQ3
Arrochar
Luss, Lomond
Sinclair Street, Helensburgh
Maitland Street, Helensburgh
Pier, Helensburgh
H&L
Total
This indicator for FQ3 shows the cumulative amount of income has exceeded the cumulative target.
Actual trend line
There is no trend as this data is
cumulative as of FQ1 each financial year.
Extra patrols have taken place in the Luss and Arrochar area, the newly created TRO for Luss Village has potentially also
displaced vehicles into the Luss Car Park.
Corporate Outcome - People live in safer and stronger communities
Car parking income to date (cumulative)
Responsible Person: Hugh O'Neill
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ2 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B £237,910 £248,502 £10,592 Green - Actual
exceeds Target An increase in income but generally on track with targets.
Period Target Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 £797,331 £807,348
2023/24 FQ4 £968,262 £937,090
2024/25 FQ1 £289,219 £247,216
2024/25 FQ2 £373,922 £391,990
2024/25 FQ3 £237,910 £248,502
Responsible Person: Hugh O'Neill
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
Green - Actual exceeds Target
Actual trend line
There is no trend as this data is
cumulative as of FQ1 each financial year.
Events in Oban, the new TRO in Luss as well as a full time warden in Dunoon has most likely been the source of extra income
coming through our parking areas.
Car parking income to date (cumulative)
Corporate Outcome - People live in safer and stronger communities
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L No Target 8 N/A N/A There were a total of 8 dog fouling complaints this quarter for the Helensburgh and Lomond area.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 4
2023/24 FQ4 8
2024/25 FQ1 10
2024/25 FQ2 5
2024/25 FQ3 8
2024/25 FQ3 A&B No Target 65 N/A N/A
A total of 65 dog fouling complaints were received for the whole of Argyll and Bute this quarter. This may seem high,
however it has been found that dog fouling can be seasonal with spikes in dark nights and dark mornings with a lot of dog
walkers refraining from walking their dogs off the beaten tracks in the winter months. The warden service will continue to
monitor as and when time allows.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 46
2023/24 FQ4 65
2024/25 FQ1 57
2024/25 FQ2 33
2024/25 FQ3 65
This indicator for 0 shows the number of dog fouling complaints has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
This quarter has seen the number of dog fouling complaints reduce significantly to 33 throughout the whole Argyll and Bute
Council area, this is very good and is partyly down to the presence of the Warden Service. In August the service recruited
another Amenity Warden who will cover the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay areas.
This indicator for 0 shows the number of dog fouling complaints has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
There were only 5 dog fouling complaints received this quarter for the Helensburgh and Lomond area, this is definitely an
improvement on last quarter.
Corporate Outcome - People live in safer and stronger communities
Number of dog fouling complaints
Responsible Person: Tom Murphy
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 100% 100% 0% Green - Actual
meets Target
Each care experienced child and young person (CECYP) enrolled in an authority school has tracking and monitoring plans in
place via our education management information system known as Seemis. Data collated includes attendance, exclusion,
progress and attainment and wellbeing information. We are continouosly working alongside schools and partner agencies to
ensure the CE status is accurately reflected. Enhanced reporting and scrutinising of data, alongside greater awarness of our
CECYP, has led to earlier and positive intervention. This is evidenced through our attainment data which shows a reduced
learning gap between CE and non-CE learners since 2021 -22 (with both cohorts showing increased attainment). We continue
to work with partner agencies to support cross authority tracking and monitoring to support CECYP hosted out with Argyll and
Bute.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 100%
2023/24 FQ4 100%
2024/25 FQ1 100%
2024/25 FQ2 100%
2024/25 FQ3 100%
Actual trend line
Each care experienced child and young person enrolled in an authority school has tracking and monitoring plans in place via
our education management information system knowns as Seemis. Data collated includes attendance, exclusion, progress and
attainment and wellbeing information. The Virtual Head Teacher (VHT) for Care Experienced Children and Young People
(CECYP) works closely with the education team and receives monthly reports specific to CECYP. The VHT has focussed
attainment meets with Designated Managers for CECYP across authoriy settings. Our tacking and monitoring data is
scrutinised during these meets to ensure each young person has the correct framework of support to help them achieve
success. Our 2023 - 24 data (still embargoed to quality assurace process) evidences the positive impact of this enhaced level of
scrutiny, support and challenge. The profile of our CECYP continues to be raised through system improvements, training
opportunities, information sharing (as appropriate) leading to greater consideration of personalised support at all stages of
the young peron's educational journey. Feedback evidences that wider school staff have increased awareness of the needs of
our CECYP cohort. We are able to work with Virtual Head Teachers from Scottish wide local authorities to develop a data
sharing agreeemnt to support cross authority tracking and monitoring to support CECYP hosted out with Argylll and Bute.
Corporate Outcome - Children and young people have the best possible start
COI - Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional tracking and monitoring plans in place
Responsible Person: Louise Lawson
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for FQ3 meets the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B +/-5.00% 0% 5% Green - Actual
exceeds Target
We continue to monitor schools that are not achieving the +/- 5% target.
B&C 6.21, H&L -3.88%, MAKI -4.58%, OLI 1.68%
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 4.12%
2023/24 FQ4 -3.44%
2024/25 FQ1 0.48%
2024/25 FQ2 -1.37%
2024/25 FQ2 0.14%
COI - Provide quality meals within cost margins to all pupiles
Responsible Person: Christine Boyle
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for FQ3 within the +/5.00% variance and performance has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
We continue to monitor schools that are not achieving the +/- 5% target.
B&C -5.65%, H&L -5.52%, MAKI 6.55%, OLI 3.26
Corporate Outcome - Children and young people have the best possible start
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L 94.00% 93.48% -0.52% Red - Actual
below Target
As of 3rd February 2025 the participation figure (16–19-year-olds in employment, training or education) in Helensburgh and
Lomond was 1075 young people, which equates to 93.48%. This is 0.52% below the target and 0.82% below the annual Argyll
and Bute participation figure of 94.3% which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2024. The
participation figure of 93.48% for FQ3 of 2024/25 is a decrease of 1.69% on the participation figure for FQ2 of 2024/25.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 92.58%
2023/24 FQ4 92.37%
2024/25 FQ1 94.16%
2024/25 FQ2 95.17%
2024/25 FQ3 93.48%
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 94.00% 94.19% 0.19% Green - Actual
exceeds Target
As of 3rd February 2025 the participation figure (16–19-year-olds in employment, training or education) across the whole of
Argyll and Bute was 3921 young people, which equates to 94.19%. This is 0.19% above the target and 0.11% below the annual
Argyll and Bute participation figure of 94.3% which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2024.
The participation figure of 94.19% for FQ3 of 2024/25 is a decrease of 1.61% on the participation figure for FQ2 of 2024/25.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 94.37%
2023/24 FQ4 93.59%
2024/25 FQ1 94.99%
2024/25 FQ2 95.80%
2024/25 FQ3 94.19%
Actual trend line
As of 10th October 2024, the participation figure (16-19 year-olds in employment, training or education) for the whole of
Argyll and Bute was 4,174 young people, which equates to 95.80%. This is 1.80% above the target and 1.50% above the annual
Argyll and Bute participation figure of 94.30% which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2024.
The participation figure of 95.80% for FQ2 of 2024/25 is an increase of 0.81% on the participation figure for FQ1 of 2024/25.
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
As of 10th October 2024, the participation figure (16-19 year-olds in employment, training or education) in Helensburgh and
Lomond was 1,142 young people, which equates to 95.17%. This is 1.17% above the target and 0.87% above the annual Argyll
and Bute participation figure of 94.30%, which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2024. The
participation figure of 95.17% for FQ2 of 2024/25 is an increase of 1.01% on the participation figure for FQ1 of 2024/25.
This indicator for FQ3 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
Maximise the percentage of 16-19 year olds participating in education, training or employment
Responsible Person: Jennifer Crocket
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L 0 0 0 Green - Actual
meets Target There were no completions in H&L in FQ3.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 0
2023/24 FQ4 0
2024/25 FQ1 12
2024/25 FQ2 0
2024/25 FQ3 0
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 6 6 0 Green - Actual
meets Target Fyne Homes completed 6 x 3 bed general needs properties at Baddens, Lochgilphead in FQ3
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 4
2023/24 FQ4 0
2024/25 FQ1 12
2024/25 FQ2 26
2024/25 FQ3 6
This indicator for FQ3 meets the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
There were 26 units completed during this period.
B&C 0    H&L 0    MAKI 20    OLI 6
This indicator for FQ3 meets the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
There were no completions in H&L in Q2.
Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum
Responsible Person: Kelly Ferns
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L 75.0% 13.6% -61.4% Red - Actual
below Target
Performance across the Development Management Service is still being recovered and impacted upon by the management of
a significant backlog of casework. Overall output and performance across the Service is improving as staff resource issues have
been resolved, however timeliness measures continue to be adversely impacted through the prioritisation of older statutory
'legacy' casework for determination. In order to assist with managing customer expectations the target response period has
been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. There continues to be a backlog of pre-application enquiries within the B&C team
which is impacting upon performance although many of the open enquiries are in fact progressing with ongoing dialogue.
During FQ3 22 pre-apps were closed in H&L. During FQ3 the BCHL team's pre-app volume throughout increased, with a 118%
turnover reported. Working through a backlog of pre-apps inevitably means that the overall percentage turned around in 20
working days will be impacted. Of the 22 pre-apps closed, 19 were from the backlog of cases.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 35.7%
2023/24 FQ4 31.3%
2024/25 FQ1 50.0%
2024/25 FQ2 40.0%
2024/25 FQ3 13.6%
Actual trend line
Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted by a backlog of casework. Overall
performance is improving across the Service as availability of staff resource has delivered improved output,however
timeliness measures are adversely impacted as older casework from the backlog is completed. To assist with the management
of customer expectations the target for responding to pre-app enquiries has been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. During
FQ2 there has been considerable effort to close older pre-app enquiries which has resulted in a slight reduction of in time
responses despite good output. During FQ2 48% of enquiries were responded to within 6 weeks.
This indicator for FQ3 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days
Responsible Person: Peter Bain
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 75.0% 48.3% -26.7% Red - Actual
below Target
Performance across the Development Management Service is still being recovered and impacted upon by the management of
a significant backlog of casework. Overall output and performance across the Service is improving as staff resource issues have
been resolved, however timeliness measures continue to be adversely impacted through the prioritisation of older statutory
'legacy' casework for determination. In order to assist with managing customer expectations the target response period has
been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. There continues to be a backlog of pre-application enquiries within the BCHL team
which is impacting upon overall Service performance although many of the open enquiries are in fact progressing with
ongoing dialogue. During FQ3 123 pre-apps were closed aross ABC.
Please find links below for supplementary information on performance in this area:
PPSL Committee - Development Management Performance Update: https://www.argyll-
bute.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s215679/DM%20Performance%20Update%202024-25%20FQ3%20PB%2010.01.2025.pdf
Appendix 1: https://www.argyll-
bute.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s215680/Appendix%201%20DM%20Performance%20Update%20FQ3%202425.pdf
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 49.1%
2023/24 FQ4 55.0%
2024/25 FQ1 49.5%
2024/25 FQ2 49.2%
2024/25 FQ3 48.3%
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days
Responsible Person: Peter Bain
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
Actual trend line
Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted by a backlog of casework. Overall
performance is improving across the Service as availability of staff resource has delivered improved output, however
timeliness measures are adversely impacted as older casework from the backlog is completed. To assist with the management
of customer expectations the target for responding to pre-app enquiries has been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. During
FQ2 there has been considerable effort to close older pre-app enquiries which has resulted in a slight reduction of in time
responses despite good output. During FQ2 57.1% of enquiries were responded to within 6 weeks.
This indicator for FQ3 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L 8.0 12.9 4.9 Red - Actual
exceeds Target
Performance across the Development Management Service has been impacted by a significant backlog of casework. Whilst
issues relating to staff resource availability have been resolved and output has significantly improved it is highlighted that
KPI's measuring average time taken are adversely affected by the resolution of increasing volumes of 'legacy' casework which
significantly skew reporting, particularly at area level where this relates to a small number of applications. During FQ3 25
'householder' applications were determined in H&L; these included 2 'legacy' items. Excluding the'legacy' items, the average
time taken to determine the other 23 applications was 10.5 weeks.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 15.7
2023/24 FQ4 21.6
2024/25 FQ1 18.2
2024/25 FQ2 27.8
2024/25 FQ3 12.9
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted by a significant backlog of casework
although performance is now improving alongside improved staff resource availability. Improved output does however involve
the determination of increasing volumes of older 'legacy' case work. The determination of a higher than normal volume of
older cases has a significant adverse impact on average time reporting measures as a small number of old cases significantly
skew the overall output. FQ2 has seen the determination of 5 legacy items amongst a higher volume of newer casework. It is
highlighted that during FQ2 75% of all householder applications determined were less than 6 months old and that these were
determined within an average timescale of 9.6 weeks.
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
Average number of weeks to determine householder planning applications
Responsible Person: Peter Bain
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 8.0 15.9 7.9 Red - Actual
exceeds Target
Performance across the Development Management Service has been impacted by a significant backlog of casework. Whilst
issues relating to staff resource availability have been resolved and output has significantly improved it is highlighted that
KPI's measuring average time taken are adversely affected by the resolution of increasing volumes of 'legacy' casework which
significantly skew reporting, particularly at area level where this relates to a small number of applications. During FQ3 60
'householder' applications were determined across all of ABC; these included 7 'legacy' items. Excluding the'legacy' items the
average time taken to determine the other 53 applications was 10.2 weeks.
Please find links below for supplementary information on performance in this area:
PPSL Committee - Development Management Performance Update: https://www.argyll-
bute.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s215679/DM%20Performance%20Update%202024-25%20FQ3%20PB%2010.01.2025.pdf
Appendix 1: https://www.argyll-
bute.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s215680/Appendix%201%20DM%20Performance%20Update%20FQ3%202425.pdf
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 16.8
2023/24 FQ4 20.0
2024/25 FQ1 16.1
2024/25 FQ2 26.1
2024/25 FQ3 15.9
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
Responsible Person: Peter Bain
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted by a significant backlog of casework
although performance is now improving alongside improved staff resource availability. Improved output does however involve
the determination of increasing volumes of older 'legacy' case work. The determination of a higher than normal volume of
older cases has a significant adverse impact on average time reporting measures as a small number of old cases significantly
skew the overall output. FQ2 has seen the determination of 11 legacy items amongst a higher volume of newer casework. It is
highlighted that during FQ2 75% of all householder applications determined were less than 6 months old and that these were
determined within an average timescale of 9.6 weeks.
Average number of weeks to determine householder planning applications
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B No Target 27 N/A N/A
During FQ3, the housing service took 90 homeless applications and provided temporary accommodation for 27 new homeless
households.
B&C: Out of 25 Homeless Applications, 8 new households went in to temporary accommodation (4 x Serviced
Accommodation, 4 x Bed & Breakfast).
H&L: Out of 22 Homeless Applications, 8 new households went in to temporary accommodation (4 x Serviced
Accommodation, 2 x Bed & Breakfast, 1 x Private Sector Lease, 1 x Council Retained).
MAKI: Out of 23 Homeless Applications, 7 new household went in to temporary accommodation (3 x Private Sector Lease, 4 x
Bed & Breakfast).
OLI: Out of 20 Homeless Applications, 4 new households went in to temporary accommodation (3 x Supported
Accommodation, 1 x Serviced Accommodation).
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 26
2023/24 FQ4 30
2024/25 FQ1 26
2024/25 FQ2 40
2024/25 FQ3 27
Actual trend line
During FQ2, the housing service took 138 homeless applications and provided temporary accommodation for 40 new
homeless households.
B&C: Out of 39 Homeless Applications, 16 new households went in to temporary accommodation (3 x Registered Social
Landlord, 6 x Serviced Accommodation, 7 x Bed & Breakfast).
H&L: Out of 29 Homeless Applications, 4 new households went in to temporary accommodation (3 x Serviced
Accommodation, 1 x Bed & Breakfast).
MAKI: Out of 46 Homeless Applications, 12 new household went in to temporary accommodation (5 x Private Sector Lease, 7 x
Bed & Breakfast).
OLI: Out of 24 Homeless Applications, 8 new households went in to temporary accommodation (5 x Supported
Accommodation, 1 x Registered Social Landlord, 1 x Serviced Accommodation, 1 x Bed & Breakfast).
Please note:
• The Registered Social Landlord and Private Rented Sector properties are leased by the Council and sub-let to homeless households as temporary accommodation.
• Serviced Accommodation is available in Cowal and Helensburgh and is for single people providing an en-suite bedroom and shared kitchen facilities.
• Supported accommodation is provided in Lorn by Blue Triangle Housing Association.
• Emergency accommodation may on occasion be provided out with the location of the original presentation due to the pressure on the availability of temporary accommodation
0
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
COI - Number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period
Responsible Person: Morven Macintyre
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of applicants has decreased since the last reporting period.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 20.0% 23.6% 3.6% Green - Actual
exceeds Target
From the 44 tender/quick quote contract awards during FQ3, 55 suppliers were successful, 13 of which were local
suppliers. However, only 18 received local bids. The nature of the types of contracts awarded can impact on
submission of local bidders. Of the 18 contracts, 13 were awarded to local suppliers (72.2%) with an estimated
total contract value of £9.6m. The Procurement, Commercial and Contract Management Team will continue to
support local suppliers by providing useful information on the Council's website.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 27.8%
2023/24 FQ4 14.3%
2024/25 FQ1 36.0%
2024/25 FQ2 10.5%
2024/25 FQ3 23.6%
COI - Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the award of contracts via the procurement portal
Responsible Person: Anne MacColl-Smith
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
From the 49 tender/quick quote contract awards during FQ2, 57 suppliers were successful, 6 of which were local suppliers.
However, only 12 received local bids. The nature of the types of contracts awarded can impact on submission of local bidders.
Of the 12 contracts, 6 were awarded to local suppliers (50.0%) with an estimated total contract value of £140k.
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B No Target 0 N/A N/A The next report covering FQ3 & FQ4 2024/25 will be available in April 2025.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 -
2023/24 FQ4 37
2024/25 FQ1 -
2024/25 FQ2 31
2024/25 FQ3
Actual trend line
We have been working closely with our suppliers to deliver additional social, economic and environmental value to our
society. 31 Community Benefits have been achieved through Contract Management, Contract Awards and the Request List
during Q1 & Q2 2024/25.
Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving
COI - Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally
Responsible Person: Anne MacColl-Smith
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported in FQ2 and FQ4. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for...
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L 75% 71% -4% Red - Actual
below Target
Lower resourcing levels meant we had some problems covering the area in December particularly. Some misrepresentation
due to faults being inaccurately reported (dark lamps that were found to be cable or power company faults when inspected).
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 46%
2023/24 FQ4 37%
2024/25 FQ1 65%
2024/25 FQ2 93%
2024/25 FQ3 71%
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 75% 92% 17% Green - Actual
exceeds Target
Continued Progress with the new tablets and software has seen a marked improvement across the service area. 341 faults
reported in total this quarter - a high number but in general we deal with more faults in FQ3 and FQ4 each year.
This has been a busy quarter for the Service and at a time when staff do take annual leave. Capital Improvement Schemes will
have helped deal with lighting that was that was previously unrealiable.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 46%
2023/24 FQ4 49%
2024/25 FQ1 93%
2024/25 FQ2 97%
2024/25 FQ3 92%
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
Overall introducing the new tablets has had a positive impact on the service, our electricians are working more efficently and
effectivly. Summer months also does mean less faults reported by the general public, however that may change in the
upcoming winter months. We also have carried out our capital improvements in the Lorn area, and are in the midst of
carrying out capital improvements on the Isle of Mull.
This indicator for FQ3 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
Summer months, number of faults are lower still. We also have introduced the remote working tablets. Our electrician for
Helensburgh has been covering other areas, whilst our electrician on the west has been on pre-planned annual leave and also
working on the Isle of Mull Capital Works project.
Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth
Percentage of street lighting faults repaired within 10 days
Responsible Person: Tom Murphy
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L No Target 32 N/A N/A Unfortunately the Helensburgh and Lomond area has suffered a number of vehicle breakdowns over the past couple of
months and this coupled with resourcing requirement has resulted in the 32 waste collection complaints received.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 9
2023/24 FQ4 2
2024/25 FQ1 22
2024/25 FQ2 16
2024/25 FQ3 32
2024/25 FQ3 A&B No Target 36 N/A N/A
In total there were 36 waste collection complaints received for the whole Argyll and Bute Council area for the months of
October, November and December. The majority of which were received in the Helensburgh and Lomond area due to vehicle
breakdowns and resourcing. The teams are still delivering a very high level of service to the many properties throughout the
areas ensuring the domestic, recycling, glass and food waste is uplifted.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 18
2023/24 FQ4 7
2024/25 FQ1 38
2024/25 FQ2 26
2024/25 FQ3 36
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of waste collection complaints has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
There were only 26 waste collection complaints received this quarter for the whole of the Argyll and Bute Council area. Given
the number of properties serviced and the various waste collected over the summer months this is a very good level of
service.
Actual trend line
There were 16 waste collection complaints received this quarter for the Helensburgh and Lomond area, this is still good given
the number of properties serviced and taking into account staff vacancies and sickness absence.
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of waste collection complaints has increased since the last reporting period.
Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth
Number of waste collection complaints
Responsible Person: Tom Murphy
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 45.0% 65.4% 20.4% Green - Actual
exceeds Target
65.4% recycling, composting and recovery (37.2% recycling/composting plus 28.2% recovery) . Target exceeded mainly due to
high recovery levels for Helensburgh and Lomond's residual waste which now goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF) instead of
landfill. Less garden waste composted during this quarter than FQ2 which is expected as green waste composting is higher
during spring/summer periods. Recycling and composting rate of 37.2% is marginally higher than same quarter in previous
year (which was 36.1%).
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 49.0%
2023/24 FQ4 74.0%
2024/25 FQ1 68.4%
2024/25 FQ2 70.5%
2024/25 FQ3 65.4%
2024/25 FQ3 Renewi No Target 52.4% N/A N/A
52.4% recycling, composting and recovery (35.3% recycling/composting plus 17.1% recovery) . Less garden waste composted
during this quarter than FQ2 which is expected as green waste composting is higher during spring/summer periods. Recycling
and composting rate of 35.3% is marginally higher than same quarter in previous year (which was 33.9%).
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 55.3%
2023/24 FQ4 66.5%
2024/25 FQ1 56.2%
2024/25 FQ2 61.3%
2024/25 FQ3 52.4%
Actual trend line
61.3% recycling, composting and recovery (44.3% recycling/composting plus 17.0% recovery). Increased recycling during the
quarter mainly due to over 1000 tonnes of stockpiled rubble at Renewi's Moleigh Waste and Recycling Facility being
processed into materials for hardstanding at the site. There was also slight tonnage increase in blue bin recycling during the
quarter.
Actual trend line
70.5% recycling, composting and recovery (45.2% recycling/composting plus 25.3% recovery). Exceeds target due to increases
in recycling and recovery. For example, a significant amount of over 1000 tonnes of stockpiled rubble at Renewi's Moleigh
Waste and Recycling Facility was processed into materials for hardstanding at the site during the quarter. There was also
slight tonnage increases in recycling of wood, blue bin materials and glass during the quarter. Recovery continues to improve
compared to 2023 with the Helensburgh and Lomond general waste no longer going to landfill and instead going for refuse
derived fuel (RDF)/energy from waste (EFW).
This indicator for FQ3 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased since the last reporting period.
Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth
COI - Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered
Responsible Person: John Blake
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is by Council-wide service provision.
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 Islands No Target 44.2% N/A N/A
44.2% recycling, composting and recovery (31.9% recycling/composting plus 12.3% recovery) . Less garden waste composted
during this quarter than FQ2 which is expected as green waste composting is higher during spring/summer periods. Recovery
rate of 12.3% in quarter is higher than same quarter in previous year (which was 0%) as residual waste from Coll and Tiree
now goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF) instead of landfill.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 34.2%
2023/24 FQ4 41.5%
2024/25 FQ1 45.8%
2024/25 FQ2 51.8%
2024/25 FQ3 44.2%
2024/25 FQ3 H&L No Target 100.0% N/A N/A
100% recycling, composting and recovery (43.1% recycling/composting plus 56.9% recovery) . High recovery levels for
Helensburgh and Lomond's residual waste which now goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF) instead of landfill. Less garden waste
composted during this quarter than FQ2 which is expected as green waste composting is higher during spring/summer
periods. Recycling and composting rate of 43.1% is marginally higher than same quarter in previous year (which was 40.8%).
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 41.5%
2023/24 FQ4 100.0%
2024/25 FQ1 100.0%
2024/25 FQ2 100.0%
2024/25 FQ3 100.0%
Actual trend line
100% recycling, composting and recovery (48% recycling/composting plus 52% recovery). There was slight tonnage increases
in recycling of wood, blue bin materials and glass during the quarter. Recovery continues to be high compared to 2023 with
the Helensburgh and Lomond general waste no longer going to landfill and instead going for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy
from waste (EFW).
Actual trend line
51.8% recycling, composting and recovery (43.5% recycling/composting plus 8.2% recovery). There was slight tonnage
increases in recycling of wood, blue bin materials and glass during the quarter. Recovery continues to improve compared to
2023 with the Tiree/Coll general waste no longer going to landfill and instead going for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy from
waste (EFW).
This indicator for FQ3 shows the percentage of waste recycled has remained the same since the last reporting period.
This indicator for FQ3 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased since the last reporting period.
Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth
COI - Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered
Responsible Person: John Blake
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is by Council-wide service provision.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 5,100 2,846 -2,254 Green - Actual
below Target
Well within biodegradable municpal waste target for the quarter mainly due to the residual waste from Helensburgh and
Lomond area now all going for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/ energy from waste (EFW) whereas this was previously sent to landfill
in same quarter in 2023.
Period Target Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 5,100 4,253
2023/24 FQ4 5,000 2,567
2024/25 FQ1 5,850 3,200
2024/25 FQ2 5,550 3,225
2024/25 FQ3 5,100 2,846
Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth
COI - Number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill
Responsible Person: John Blake
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for FQ3 is lower than the target (lowest is best).
Actual trend line
Well within target partly due to increased recycling during the quarter e.g. rubble, wood, glass and blue bin recycling. A
significant factor also is that the Helensburgh and Lomond general waste now goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy from
waste (EFW) instead of going to landfill (which it was in 2023).
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L 73 88 15 Green - Actual
exceeds Target
The street cleanliness figure for this quarter in Helensburgh and Lomond remains high, meaning there is no litter or very litter
visible in the areas scored.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 89
2023/24 FQ4 89
2024/25 FQ1 89
2024/25 FQ2 87
2024/25 FQ3 88
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 73 84 11 Green - Actual
exceeds Target
The street cleanliness figure for the months of October, November and December for the whole of the Argyll and Bute Council
area remains high. This means the areas scored show no or a very small amount of litter visible but not detracting from the
look of the area. The teams on both the mainland and islands are providing a good service by ensuring weeds, detritus, litter,
fly posting, grafitti etc are being dealt with timeously.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 85
2023/24 FQ4 83
2024/25 FQ1 84
2024/25 FQ2 85
2024/25 FQ3 84
Actual trend line
For the months of July, August and September the overall figure for street cleanliness within Argyll and Bute is sitting at 85,
this is a very good level of service provided by the teams on both the mainland and the Islands.
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
The Helensburgh and Lomond street cleanliness figure remains high at 87 overall for the months of July, August and
September.
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period.
Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth
COI - LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System)
Responsible Person: Tom Murphy
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
25
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L No Target 3.15 N/A N/A Work days lost has increased by 0.89 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 1.49 of a day from the
previous quarter.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 2.26
2023/24 FQ4 2.56
2024/25 FQ1 1.70
2024/25 FQ2 1.66
2024/25 FQ3 3.15
2024/25 FQ3 A&B No Target 2.89 N/A N/A Work days lost has increased by 0.07 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 1.12 of a day from the
previous quarter.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 2.82
2023/24 FQ4 2.82
2024/25 FQ1 2.14
2024/25 FQ2 1.77
2024/25 FQ3 2.89
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
Work days lost has increased by 0.52 of a day on the same quarter last year and has decreased by 0.37 of a day from the
previous quarter. Main work days lost have been due to Mental Health related reasons.
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
Work days lost has increased by 0.23 of a day on the same quarter last year and has decreased by 0.04 of a day from the
previous quarter. Main work days lost have been due to Mental Health related reasons.
Corporate Outcome - Making it happen
COI - Teacher sickness absence
Responsible Person: Jennifer Crocket (B&C and MAKI) / Wendy Brownlie (H&L and OLI)
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 H&L No Target 4.24 N/A N/A Work days lost has increased by 1.00 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 1.45 of a day from the
previous quarter.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 3.24
2023/24 FQ4 3.64
2024/25 FQ1 3.22
2024/25 FQ2 2.79
2024/25 FQ3 4.24
2024/25 FQ3 A&B No Target 4.40 N/A N/A Work days lost has increased by 0.67 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 0.97 of a day from the
previous quarter.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 3.73
2023/24 FQ4 4.12
2024/25 FQ1 3.85
2024/25 FQ2 3.43
2024/25 FQ3 4.40
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
Work days lost has decreased by 0.32 of a day on the same quarter last year and has also decreased by 0.43 of a day from the
previous quarter. Main work days lost have been due to Mental Health related reasons.
This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period.
Corporate Outcome - Making it happen
COI - LGE staff (including non-Teacher) sickness absence
Responsible Person: Carolyn Cairns
This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide.
Actual trend line
Work days lost has increased by 0.25 of a day on the same quarter last year and has decreased by 0.42 of a day from the
previous quarter. Main work days lost have been due to Mental Health related reasons.
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ3 Commentary
2024/25 FQ3 A&B 70.0% 82.7% 12.7% Green - Actual
exceeds Target
In FQ3 there were 33,666 customer transactions dealt with by Customer Service Agents (17.3%) and 160,491
were automated or self-service transactions (82.7%) so the 70.0% target was substantially bettered.  This was
largely due to the significant increase in customers using the improved Bin Day Uplift online resources.
Period Actual FQ2 Commentary
2023/24 FQ3 72.7%
2023/24 FQ4 70.1%
2024/25 FQ1 71.6%
2024/25 FQ2 72.7%
2024/25 FQ3 82.7%
Corporate Outcome - Making it happen
COI - Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts
Responsible Person: Robert Miller
This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only.
This indicator for FQ3 exceeds the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period.
Actual trend line
In FQ2 there were 39,421 customer transactions dealt with by Customer Service Agents (27.3%) and 104,776 were automated
or self-service transactions (72.7%) so the 70.0% target was bettered. 
28
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Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee 
Workplan 2025-2026 
Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and
contact officer
Regularity of
occurrence/consideration
Date for
Reports to
Committee
Services
Additional
Comment
March 2025     
11 March 2025 Area Performance
Report – FQ3
2024/25
Customer Support 
Services – 
Kay Owen/ 
Claire McAllister
Quarterly Report 14 February
2025 
11 March 2025 Roads and
Infrastructure
Service Update
Roads and 
Infrastructure – 
Mark Calder
Quarterly Report 14 February
2025 
11 March 2025 Police Scotland
Update 
Police Scotland –
Inspector Bart Simonis
Quarterly Report 14 February
2025 
11 March 2025 Helensburgh,
Cardross and
Dumbarton
Cyclepath
Progress Report
Development and
Economic Growth –
Colin Young 
Bi-annual Report 14 February
2025 
11 March 2025 2024/25 Active
Travel Progress
Report 
Development and
Economic Growth –
Colin Young
Annual Report 14 February
2025 
11 March 2025 Primary Area
Attainment Report:
Helensburgh and
Lomond
Education – 
Simon Easton
Annual Report 14 February
2025 
11 March 2025 Housing Services
Activity Update –
Strategic Housing
Investment Plan
Development and
Economic Growth –
Douglas Whyte 
Annual Report 14 February
2025 
Page 117
Agenda Item
13

Page 118

Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee 
Workplan 2025-2026 
Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and
contact officer
Regularity of
occurrence/consideration
Date for
Reports to
Committee
Services
Additional
Comment
(SHIP) – Annual
Update
11 March 2025 Helensburgh
Outdoor Museum
– Arts Strategy
Fund Application
Development and
Economic Growth –
Kirsty Durrant
As Required 14 February
2025 
June 2025     
10 June 2025 Roads and
Infrastructure
Service Update
Roads and 
Infrastructure – 
Mark Calder
Quarterly Report 16 May
2025 
10 June 2025 Police Scotland
Update 
Police Scotland –
Inspector Bart Simonis
Quarterly Report 16 May
2025 
10 June 2025 Area Performance
Report – FQ4
2024/25
Customer Support 
Services – 
Kay Owen/
Claire McAllister
Quarterly Report 16 May
2025 
10 June 2025 Supporting
Communities Fund
– End of Project
Monitoring Report
Chief Executive – 
David Hagerty
Annual Report 16 May
2025 
10 June 2025 Supporting
Communities Fund
2025/26
Chief Executive –
Ailie Law
Annual Report 16 May
2025 
10 June 2025 Secondary School
Report –
Education – Douglas
Morgan
Annual Report 16 May
2025 
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Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee 
Workplan 2025-2026 
Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and
contact officer
Regularity of
occurrence/consideration
Date for
Reports to
Committee
Services
Additional
Comment
Hermitage
Academy
10 June 2025 Comets - Update Commercial Services –
John Gordon 
As Required 16 May
2025 
September 2025     
Area Performance
Report – FQ1
2025/26
Customer Support 
Services – 
Kay Owen/ 
Claire McAllister
Quarterly Report   
Roads and
Infrastructure
Service Update
Roads and 
Infrastructure – 
Mark Calder
Quarterly Report   
Recycling and
Recovery
Performance 
Roads and 
Infrastructure –
John Blake
Annual Report   
Helensburgh,
Cardross and
Dumbarton
Cyclepath Update
Development and
Economic Growth –
Colin Young 
Bi-annual Report   
CHARTS (Argyll
and the Isles)
Seymour Adams  Annual Report   
Police Scotland
Update 
Police Scotland –
Inspector Bart Simonis
Quarterly Report  
December 2025     
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Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee 
Workplan 2025-2026 
Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and
contact officer
Regularity of
occurrence/consideration
Date for
Reports to
Committee
Services
Additional
Comment 
Area Performance
Report – FQ2
2025/26
Customer Support 
Services – 
Kay Owen/ 
Claire McAllister
Quarterly Report   
Argyll and Bute
Health and Social
Care Partnership
Performance
Report 
Health and Social Care 
Partnership – 
Charlotte Craig
Annual Report   
Charitable Trusts,
Bequests and
Trust Funds
Legal and Regulatory 
Support – 
Stuart McLean
Annual Report   
Roads and
Infrastructure
Service Update
Roads and 
Infrastructure – 
Mark Calder
Quarterly Report   
Police Scotland
Update 
Police Scotland –
Inspector Bart Simonis
Quarterly Report   
Page 120