Public reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 10 September 2024
Back to Helensburgh & Lomond Area Committee — 10 September 2024 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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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 3 September 2024 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, 10 SEPTEMBER 2024 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 11 JUNE 2024 (Pages 3 - 10) 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 5. POLICE SCOTLAND UPDATE (Pages 11 - 16) Update from Inspector Bart Simonis, Police Scotland 6. CHARTS (ARGYLL AND THE ISLES) - TO FOLLOW Presentation by Vice Chair of the Cultural Heritage and Arts Assembly for the Argyll and Isles 7. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ1 2024/25 (Pages 17 - 52) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services 8. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE (Pages 53 - 56) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 9. RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE (Pages 57 - 64) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 10. HELENSBURGH, CARDROSS AND DUMBARTON CYCLEPATH UPDATE (Pages 65 - 78) Public Document Pack
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Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth REPORT FOR NOTING 11. DRAFT HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN (Pages 79 - 82) 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 PILLAR HALL, VICTORIA HALLS, HELENSBURGH AND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS ON TUESDAY, 11 JUNE 2024 Present: Councillor Mark Irvine (Chair) Councillor Math Campbell-Sturgess Councillor Maurice Corry Councillor Fiona Howard Councillor Paul Donald Kennedy Councillor Ian MacQuire Councillor Gary Mulvaney Councillor Gemma Penfold Attending: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager Claire Kennedy, Depute Head Teacher, Hermitage Academy Mhairi Stewart, Depute Head Teacher, Hermitage Academy Rona Gold, Communities & Partnership Manager Kirsty McLuckie, Community Development Officer Mark Calder, Project Manager Arlene Cullum, Senior Development Officer Colin Young, Strategic Transportation Delivery Officer Charlotte Craig, Business Improvement Manager, HSCP Inspector Bart Simonis, Police Scotland 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Graham Hardie and Iain Paterson. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Councillor Math Campbell-Sturgess declared a non-financial interest in relation to item 11 of the agenda (Supporting Communities Fund 2024/25) as a family member attends Route 81. He advised that he would leave the room and take no part in the consideration of this item of business. 3. MINUTE OF THE MEETING OF THE HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE, HELD ON 12 MARCH 2024 The Minute of the meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee, held on 12 March 2024 was approved as a correct record. 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME Having noted that there were members of the public in attendance, the Chair invited them to submit any questions they may have. Sarah Davies, Helensburgh Community Council Why is the Helensburgh Waterfront Development not on the Agenda today? At the last meeting a decision was taken, in private, to choose two preferred bidders and since then we have heard nothing. We had expected the decision to be discussed at the Page 3 Agenda Item 3
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next Policy and Resources Committee but once again it was not on the agenda. Why was that? We had heard that this Committee would be holding a Business Day to discuss the bids further, has this happened? If not, when will it happen, who will be involved and how will any decisions be reported to Helensburgh residents. Following the decision to move forward without the Helensburgh Community Council’s bid, we wrote to all Argyll and Bute Councillors expressing our serious concerns with the process. We believe community views have been excluded from the process and the overall selection of bids is based on a flawed process and weak evidence. We are concerned this will lead to a large retail development on the waterfront site, against the wishes of the community and harmful to existing and fragile retail in our town. This letter was sent to all Argyll and Bute Councillors, the Leader and Chief Executive of the Council our local MSP’s and Mp’s. We have since then had replies and discussions with our local MSP and MP. We have had acknowledgements from some Argyll and Bute Councillors, but not a single response from any of you our local councillors who sit on this Committee that made that decision. We have received a response from an officer, Ross McLaughlin Head of Commercial Services informing us that the Community Council will be further consulted once the selection has been made and the proposal moves to planning. In our view this is too late. What will now be the process for the final selection of a bidder for the Waterfront? When and how will the community be informed or involved in any of the decisions or discussions about the development of this prime and valued site in our town? How and when will this committee engage with the community about their plans? The Chair advised that an Area Committee Business Day was scheduled for 26 June for Members and Officers to discuss the Helensburgh Waterfront Development further and that a report regarding the project would be considered at a future meeting of the Policy and Resources Committee. Angela Anderson, Plastic Free Helensburgh Question 1 Plastic Free Helensburgh have seen an increased amount of litter around Helensburgh Pier and beach area, as a consequence of the better weather and longer evenings. However, we are concerned that it has been reported that Argyll and Bute Council consider the increase of litter and vandalism due to the opening of the Skatepark and in Plastic Free Helensburgh’s opinion even though both happened around same time we do not consider them linked. Can you agree that these are not linked as suggested in the report? Councillor Campbell-Sturgess agreed that it would be impossible to link the litter and vandalism with the opening of the Skatepark. Page 4
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The Project Manager advised that there was no intention to cast dispersion on anyone in the Roads and Infrastructure weekly update to Members and that it was simply to highlight the increase of vandalism and littering in that area. Question 2 This is the third quarterly meeting I have brought up the issue of drainage and flooding which continues to be an issue in the locality, especially due to the increased rainfall in the last week. Plastic Free Helensburgh are keen to work with the Council on these issues and would like to have a campaign locally to ensure the community are looking after the drainage system but we feel we cannot do this in an enabling way without support from the Council. I have been told that the drains are classed as ‘not blocked’ if there is no standing water on them, which doesn’t help when the town is built on a hill. Can the Committee ensure this issue will be looked into? The Chair advised that there is a significant amount of ongoing work looking into drainage and that further discussions on this matter would take place at the Roads and Infrastructure Services Update item. Councillor MacQuire advised that clarification is needed on when drains are being cleared as he had received mixed communications from the Roads Department. Lindsey Young, Cyclepath Action Group I would like the Committee to consider the outstanding work undertaken WSP which is listed in the Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath update report. A lot of this work can only be done in the summer months, consequently if it is not done within the next 2 or 3 months it won’t be able to be done until next year, meaning another year to wait. Can the Committee ensure that these studies are completed this summer? The Chair advised that he would raise Ms Young’s comments to the Project Lead at the agenda item. 5. POLICE SCOTLAND UPDATE Consideration was given to an update which provided information on the ongoing work of the Service and information on crime statistics; engagement with housing providers and Argyll & Bute ASB to target anti-social behaviour among individuals and properties; support to reduce the impact of acquisitive crime; continuing to support and improve awareness to front-line officers to ensure they are equipped and trained to provide a victim centred approach; road safety work and youth engagement activities. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee considered and noted the information provided in the report. (Reference: Report by Inspector Bart Simonis, Police Scotland, dated June 2024, submitted) Page 5
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6. ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL SECONDARY SCHOOL ATTAINMENT REPORTS (a) Hermitage Academy The Committee heard from Ms Kennedy and Ms Stewart, Depute Head Teachers at Hermitage Academy, who spoke to the school report which had been provided to Members. The report included information on S3 ACEL attainment in literacy and numeracy; the pass rates of national qualifications; and data from Insight Scotland. Information in relation to wider achievement qualifications; equity and attainment; and Pupil Equity Funding was also provided. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee noted and considered the contents of the report and information provided. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education, dated June 2024, submitted) 7. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ4 2023/24 The Committee gave consideration to the Area Performance Report for financial quarter 4 of 2023/24 (January to March 2024) which illustrated the agreed performance measures for this period. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee noted and considered the performance and supporting commentary as presented; (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services, dated 15 May 2024, submitted) Having noted the officers in attendance, the Chair advised that it was his intention to vary the order of business to take the following agenda items out of sequence. The order in which they are minuted, is the order in which discussion took place. 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: 1. considered and noted the contents of the report; and 2. agreed that a Business Day be held to explore flooding related issues within the Helensburgh and Lomond Area with relevant stakeholders invited to attend and contribute. Page 6
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(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated May 2024, submitted) 9. ARGYLL AND BUTE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP PERFORMANCE REPORTS - FQ3 AND FQ4 2023/24 Consideration was given to the Health and Social Care Partnership Performance Reports for financial quarter 3 and 4 of 2023/24. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee considered and noted the Performance Reports for financial quarter 3 and 4 of 2023/24. (Reference: Report by Head of Strategic Planning, Performance and Technology, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, dated June 2024, submitted) 10. HELENSBURGH OUTDOOR MUSEUM - ARTS STRATEGY UPDATE JUNE 2024 The Committee gave consideration to a report providing background to the Helensburgh Outdoor Museum, its governance and funds. The report also invited Elected Members to take up the Chair and Vice Chair roles of the Design Panel as well as seeking approval for a change to the Terms of Reference. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee: 1. agreed that the Chair and Vice Chair of the Area Committee be invited to fill the positions of Chair and Vice Chair of the Design Panel; and 2. approved the change to the Terms of Reference to allow the Design Panel to approve variation to funding amounts of approved applications that do not amount to more than the 50% of the total project costs. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth, dated 30 April 2024, submitted) 11. SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND 2024/25 Consideration was given to a report which detailed recommendations for the award of the Council’s Supporting Communities Fund (SCF) for the 2024/25 round of funding that had been made available for distribution by Council to organisations in the Helensburgh and Lomond area. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee agreed that the 17 applications, marked as ‘Award’ and ‘Partial Award’ within Appendix 1 of the report, are awarded funding from the Supporting Communities Fund Budget totalling £31,175.50, as follows: Page 7
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Ref Applicant Recommendation Amount Requested Recommended Award 2024/25 1 Cove Park Award £2,500.00 £2,500.00 2 Fun First Award £2,500.00 £2,500.00 3 Route 81 Youth Project Award £2,500.00 £2,500.00 4 Helensburgh Community Woodlands Group Award £2,500.00 £2,500.00 5 Argyll & Bute Citizens Advice Bureau - HL Award £2,300.00 £2,300.00 6 Garelochhead Senior Citizens Award £800.00 £800.00 7 Gibson Hall Award £2,500.00 £2,500.00 8 Arrochar & Tarbet Community Development Trust Award £2,500.00 £2,500.00 9 Gareloch Riding for the Disabled Association Award £2,092.00 £2,092.00 10 Garelochhead Station Trust Award £1,200.00 £1,200.00 11 The Edible Garden at Rhu Hall – Rhu and Shandon Community Education Centre Award £950.00 £950.00 12 Live Music Now Scotland Award £614.40 £614.40 13 Peninsula Choir Award £2,021.00 £2,021.00 14 Rosneath Community Garden Award £1,018.00 £1,018.00 15 Cove and Kilcreggan Community Council Award £2,200.00 £2,200.00 16 Plastic Free Helensburgh Award £980.00 £980.00 17 Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Partial award £2,500.00 £2,000.10 18 Peaton Pealers No award £2,500.00 £0.00 19 Grey Matters No award £2,250.00 £0.00 20 Helensburgh Heritage Trust No award £1,500.00 £0.00 21 Helensburgh Amateur Athletics Club No award £2,000.00 £0.00 22 Woodlandwise Forest School CIC No award £2,500.00 £0.00 23 Helensburgh Gaelic Group No award £2,500.00 £0.00 (Reference: Report by Chief Executive, dated 11 June 2024, submitted) 12. REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM HELENSBURGH AND DISTRICT TWINNING ASSOCIATION A report providing information on a request from the Helensburgh and District Twinning Association for financial assistance to help assist with the costs of hosting visitors from Thouars in 2025 was considered. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee agreed to award the sum of £625 from the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Twinning Budget for 2024/25 to Helensburgh and District Twinning Association. Page 8
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(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support dated May 2024, submitted) 13. APPOINTMENTS TO OUTSIDE ORGANISATIONS A report asking the Committee to consider making appointments to a number of local bodies/organisations within the Helensburgh and Lomond area was considered. Decision The Committee agreed to make the following appointments: Organisation Elected Member Cardross Trust Councillor Paul Kennedy Dunbritton Housing Association Councillor Iain Paterson was proposed by Councillor Mark Irvine, seconded by Councillor Fiona Howard. Councillor Gary Mulvaney was proposed by Councillor Gemma Penfold, seconded by Councillor Maurice Corry. The motion to appoint Councillor Iain Paterson was carried by 5 votes to 3 and the Committee agreed to appoint Councillor Iain Paterson to the position. Helensburgh and Lomond Locality Planning Group Councillor Fiona Howard Gourock, Dunoon and Kilcreggan Harbour Reference Group Councillor Mark Irvine Dunbartonshire Educational Trust Councillor Fiona Howard Glasgow Airport Consultative Committee Councillor Graham Hardie - subject to confirmation of acceptance of the appointment. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support dated 13 May 2024, submitted) 14. DRAFT HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee workplan was before members for information. Decision Page 9
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The Helensburgh and Lomond Committee noted the contents of the workplan. (Reference: Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee workplan, dated 11 June 2024) Having noted members intentions to raise questions that would likely involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 9 of Part 1 of Schedule 7A to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 the Chair moved and the Area Committee agreed to the exclusion of the press and public in terms of Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. 15. HELENSBURGH, CARDROSS AND DUMBARTON CYCLEPATH UPDATE Consideration was given to a report updating Members on the progress made since the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee on 12 March 2024 in relation to the delivery of a dedicated, high quality walking and cycle route linking Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee: 1. instructed Officers, subject to securing external funding, to seek a new design team to continue development of Phase 1 and Phase 2 designs to complete Developed Design and Technical Design stages; and 2. supported progression of the project to full Technical Design, as required by the external funder. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth, dated 17 May 2024, submitted) Page 10
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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 Argyll & West Dunbartonshire Division Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee The priorities for your area are decided by data from our strategic assessment which details threats and risks, and also from feedback from local authorities, partners, and residents in the Local Policing Survey ➢ Serious organised crime ➢ Crimes of theft and dishonesty ➢ Road safety and road crime ➢ Violent crime ➢ Public protection. Serious & Organised Crime Cowal, Bute & Helensburgh benefits from a dedicated Pro-active Serious and Organised Crime Team (SOCT). These specialist officers are supported by dedicated intelligence officers in tackling serious and organised crime in our communities. We continue to focus on those involved in the supply of controlled drugs and other high-level criminality and the seizure of over £300,000 since April 2024 is a significant part of what we are doing. We strongly believe that this cash would otherwise have been re-invested into further criminal activities. We have been upskilling officers across Argyll and Bute, ensuring they understand and appreciate the importance of community intelligence and information. This information is key and often results in the targeting of those involved in the sale and supply of controlled drugs. This has led to an increase in applications to the courts for Sheriff search warrants resulting in various drugs recoveries from specific individuals. Our Youth Engagement Officer are continuing to provide inputs in local schools explaining the dangers of drug use, and warning of the potential dangers of County Lines activity. Community information is key for us and may just provide us with the last piece of evidence required to apply to the courts for a warrant. We encourage our communities to share concerns and COWAL, BUTE & HELENSBURGH PRIORITIES 2023-2026 Page 11 Agenda Item 5
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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 suspicions around drug dealing either by calling 101 or by reporting anonymously via Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Acquisitive Crime Acquisitive crime remains a local priority. Figures across the country are on an upward trajectory, which in part is a result of the cost of living. We are working with our Preventions team looking at maximising our crime prevention opportunities and looking at innovative ways to increase local awareness. We are working with our communities to identify areas of vulnerability where we can engage with our partners to maximise our response. In Helensburgh Our community policing officers are engaging with local businesses in the retail sector to reduce shoplifting. Officers are taking ownership by identifying those responsible, collating information and seeking bail conditions restricting access by the perpetrators. Theft of fuel from petrol stations continues to be an increasing trend. Along with our preventions team we are supporting local business to ensure that we are proving crime prevention advice and seeking local business to review practises to reduce the volume of these crimes. Bike Register marking kits have been distributed to police offices across Argyll and Bute, available to members of the public on request. Once registered on the Bike Register, the unique QR coded stickers can be used to identify lost and stolen bikes. These cannot be removed, acting as a visible deterrent to bicycle theft. Our preventions team have been closely involved in a number of new build Secured by Design projects being progressed in the Argyll and Bute area, ensuring crime prevention is an integral part of the design and build process. The team also recently visited Helensburgh with the Trading Standards ‘Scam Van’ engaging with members of the public, raising awareness of current prevalent types of fraudulent activity. (Figures from 1st April – 19th August 2024) Crime Type 5 Year Average PYTD YTD % Change from previous Year Common Theft 25.8 25 19 -24% Fraud 12.4 16 8 -27% Theft shoplifting 10.6 11 25 +127.3% Road Safety & Road Crime Page 12
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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 Throughout the reporting period, our Roads Policing Unit have provided support to Argyll and Bute in respect of road safety with campaigns through the national calendar of activity. Focus during this time has been on the Fatal 5 campaign, motorcycle safety weekends of action, Child Safety Week, National Seatbelt campaign and cycle space dedicated patrols with marked and unmarked vehicles in the area. As a result of our continued presence within local community council and partnership meetings, we are able to identify locations which our communities have identified as areas of concern for speeding. Our officers are trained in the use of handheld speed detection devices and will always look for opportunities to target these areas throughout the course of their duties. We participate in the Cowal Transport Forum which provides a wide range of community members the opportunity to engage directly with local policing, giving us a great opportunity to listen and identify local risk and provide a suitable policing response. Motorcyclists are among our most vulnerable road users. In Helensburgh and Inveraray, our partnerships and preventions team held successful road safety events assisted by Roads Policing and in partnership with the Institute of Advanced Motorists and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Road Smart advanced riders offered free driving assessments and development sessions to motorcycle riders as part of these free drop in events, which were very well received by the public. We continue to work tirelessly to improve the safety of those using the roads network. Violent Crime Violent crime continues to be closely monitored and reviewed with investigations being resourced across Local Policing Teams and the Criminal Investigation Department. Each crime is subject of daily review and scrutiny and thereafter allocated to the most appropriate department to progress to assist in identification of repeat victims, offenders and locations. Any emerging issues and risks are shared and appropriate actions identified Across Helensburgh and Lomond we continue to support our nighttime economy by providing a visible presence in our licensed premises. Weekend policing plans allow us to maximise our efforts across our towns as we look for opportunities to reduce early signs of ASB which may escalate into violence. We often work with partners to maximise our presence. In Helensburgh the Royal Navy Police have been attending shift meetings learning about priority tasking and supporting local policing across the town. Public Protection Page 13
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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 Our partnerships team are working with A&B licensing and local taxi companies to increase the awareness of domestic violence and in particular violence against woman and children. Better awareness and support to taxi drivers will allow them to consider the “by stander approach” Which will give confidence to report their concerns to local policing. Our Youth Engagement Officers across Argyll and Bute continue to deliver talks within our local schools, with our recent focus being on ‘sextortion’ crimes and online safety. The Arrest Referral Scheme is currently being re-launched across Argyll and Bute, ensuring persons passing through police custody are referred to the most appropriate services to provide the support they require. Local Policing News Fraud Prevention Frauds and scams continue to be a focus as offences are still being reported on a regular basis and we would welcome invites from any community groups or organisations in the Helensburgh and Lomond area who feel they could benefit from an input from our preventions team. Community Policing Our community police team have been maximising their presence across Helensburgh and Lomond. They have created and enhanced new local links with partners from housing, RNP, Live Argyll. The officers are tasked daily with supporting the local community where it is needed most. The officers remained motivated and determined to provide a positive policing presence within the community. PC Haining has been working with Live Argyll to support a diversionary and supportive programme for young persons in the grounds of Hermitage Academy on Friday evenings. As well as this PC Haining has been leading the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers at various events. This includes the Luss Highland Games and later this month will be supporting the British Open Golf Championships in Troon. These experiences have not only supported local communities but provided these young persons with valuable development and evidence for future employment. Operation Ballaton Our multi agency approach at tackling summer ASB has been ongoing with weekly meetings with key partners to plan and maximise our response. Local officers have been provided with information in relation local bye laws across Loch Lomond so that a robust policing plan can be put in place to tackle seasonal ASB. We continue to support the Luss community to reduce the impact of ASB and to ensure we remain vigilant and aware of local concerns. Looking Forward Page 14
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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 Local policing has had engagement with local elected officials to highlight the need for a review on CCTV within Helensburgh. The system in place is not fit for purpose and requires consideration of investment and upgrade. 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-2023-2024/ Page 15
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1 ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES 10 SEPTEMBER 2024 AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT – FQ1 2024/25 1.0 BACKGROUND 1.1 This paper presents the Area Performance Report for Financial Quarter 1 2024/25 (April to June 2024) and illustrates the agreed performance measures. 1.2 The features of the Performance Report are as follows:- Indicators are grouped by Corporate Outcome. The data table for each indicator is coded to identify the level of reporting. o Area level measures are blue o Council level measures are grey o COI measures are white Each indicator details the o Target, Actual and Performance status (Green / Red / No Target) for the current and four previous financial quarters. o Commentary for the current financial quarter only. o Narrative explaining the performance trend e.g. This indicator is above Target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. o Where appropriate a Performance Trend Line has been added. o The name of the Responsible Officer. o Where possible performance is presented at both Area and Council level. 1.3 The commentary for each indicator helps ‘Tell Our Story’ and enables Elected Members to put the performance data into perspective and understand if an issue is local in nature or should be escalated up to a Strategic Committee. 1.4 As part of our improvements to performance reporting and making best use of the digital technology available to us, the information contained in this report is also available in your online scorecard. If support is required to navigate the online scorecard please contact lorna.gillies@argyll-bute.gov.uk 1.5 To improve the response to performance queries, it is requested that should there be any queries that either the Responsible Person or Kay Owen are contacted. This should enable some queries being resolved or clarified prior to the Area Committee meeting, and therefore being carried forward as Actions at a subsequent meeting. Page 17 Agenda Item 7
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2 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 It is recommended that the Area Committee – a) Notes and considers the performance and supporting commentary as presented. 3.0 IMPLICATIONS 3.1 Policy All of the indicators in this report are based on agreed Council policy. 3.2 Financial All indicators with financial implications are actively managed through agreed budget monitoring processes. 3.3 Legal All appropriate legal implications are complied with. 3.4 HR All HR implications are actively managed through agreed Wellbeing and Management monitoring processes. 3.5 Fairer Scotland Duty See below. 3.5.1 Equalities All activities comply with Equal Opportunities/Fairer Scotland Duty policies and obligations. 3.5.2 Socio-economic Duty All activities comply with the council’s socio- economic duty. 3.5.3 Islands Duty All activities comply with the council’s islands duty. 3.6 Climate Change The Council is committed to working towards net zero. 3.7 Risk Without this information Elected Members are less informed of activities within their area. 3.8 Customer Service All activities with customer feedback or insight are rigorously monitored for improvement. 3.9 The Rights of the Child This report highlights examples of how the Council is (UNCRC) committed to, and working towards reducing child poverty and improving outcomes for every child. Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services Jane Fowler Head of Customer Support Services 6 August 2024 For further information, please contact: Kay Owen Team Lead - Organisation Development Project Office - Customer Support Services 01546 604073 Appendix 1: FQ1 2024/25 H&L Performance Report Page 18
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Appendix 1 Page 1 All Areas FQ1 2024/25 Overall Performance Summary The information presented is a summary of the agreed measures. Unless stated otherwise, performance is presented at both Area and Council-wide levels. The measures show the performance against target for the current and previous three reporting periods with an explanation of performance trend. The data table for each indicator is colour coded to identify the level of reporting: Area level measures are blue. Council level measures are grey. Corporate Outcome Indicators (COIs) are white. Where appropriate a Trend Line has been added to illustrate movement in ‘Actual’ over the reporting period. Page 19
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Appendix 1 Page 2 Performance Reporting All Areas .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1 Performance Reporting .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives ............................................................................................................................ 5 COI – Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund ................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives ............................................................................................................................ 6 COI – Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention ...................... 6 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................... 7 Number of parking penalty notices issued – Helensburgh and Lomond ...................................................................................................................................... 7 Number of parking penalty notices issued – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................................................... 7 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................... 8 Car parking income to date – Helensburgh and Lomond .............................................................................................................................................................. 8 Car parking income to date – Argyll and Bute ............................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................. 10 Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Helensburgh and Lomond ..................................................................................................................................... 10 Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Argyll and Bute ...................................................................................................................................................... 10 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start ................................................................................................................... 12 COI – Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional tracking and monitoring plans in place .... 12 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start ................................................................................................................... 13 COI – Provide quality meals with cost margins to all pupils ....................................................................................................................................................... 13 Corporate Outcome No.4 – Education, skills and training maximises opportunities for all .......................................................................................................... 14 Maximise the percentage of 16-19 years olds participating in education, training or employment – Helensburgh and Lomond .......................................... 14 Maintain the percentage of 16-19 years olds in Argyll and Bute participating in education, training or employment services – Argyll and Bute ................ 14 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 16 Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Helensburgh and Lomond ....................................................................................... 16 Page 20
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Appendix 1 Page 3 Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Argyll and Bute ........................................................................................................ 16 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 17 Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Helensburgh and Lomond ............................................................... 17 Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Argyll and Bute ................................................................................ 17 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 19 Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Helensburgh and Lomond .......................................................................... 19 Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Argyll and Bute ........................................................................................... 19 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 21 COI – Number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period ......................................................................................... 21 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 22 COI – Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the awards of contracts via the procurement portal .................................................... 22 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 23 COI – Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally ........................................................................... 23 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 24 Street lighting – percentage of faults repaired within 10 days – Helensburgh and Lomond ..................................................................................................... 24 The percentage of street lighting faults are completed within 10 working days – Argyll and Bute .......................................................................................... 24 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 25 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Helensburgh and Lomond .............................................................................................................. 25 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Argyll and Bute ............................................................................................................................... 25 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 26 COI – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ................................................................................................................................................ 26 Renewi (formerly Shanks) – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ........................................................................................................... 26 Islands – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered .......................................................................................................................................... 27 H&L – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ............................................................................................................................................... 27 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 29 Page 21
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Appendix 1 Page 4 COI – The number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill ................................................................................................................................................................. 29 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 30 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Helensburgh and Lomond ...................................................................................................... 30 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................... 30 Making It Happen.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 31 Teacher sickness absence – Helensburgh and Lomond ............................................................................................................................................................... 31 Teacher sickness absence – Argyll and Bute ................................................................................................................................................................................ 31 Making It Happen.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 32 LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Helensburgh and Lomond ...................................................................................................................................... 32 LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................................................... 32 Making It Happen.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 33 COI – Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts ....................................................................................................................................... 33 Page 22
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Appendix 1 Page 5 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives COI – Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2023/24 95.3% 112.9% Green FQ2 2023/24 95.3% 134.3% Green FQ3 2023/24 95.3% 138.2% Green FQ4 2023/24 95.3% 128.6% Green FQ1 2024/25 95.3% 94.0% Red This indicator for FQ1 has is lower than the target and the actual has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment As of 30 June 2024, our expenditure stands at £107,676, which is £6,894 below the profiled budget. This reduction in cost is primarily because the cost of white goods has decreased, leading to an average reduction of £120 in our standard community care grant awards. The number of awards we have made has increased this year and we are able to support more vulnerable claimants within the budget. Responsible person: Fergus Walker Page 23
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Appendix 1 Page 6 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives COI – Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ2 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ3 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ4 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ1 2024/25 100% 100% Green This indicator for FQ1 has met the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment 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 FQ1 2024/25, 19 survey forms were distributed to clients. 1 was returned. Of this 1 return, 1 responded to the question relating to being better able to deal with their financial problems. Of this 1 respondent 1 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. Responsible person: Lee Roberts Page 24
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Appendix 1 Page 7 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Number of parking penalty notices issued – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 973 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 452 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 413 No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 468 No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 896 No target The indicator for FQ1 shows the number of parking penalty notices has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment In comparison to last year’s FQ1 figure we have an 8% reduction in the number of PCNs issued, this is most likely due to the vacant H&L Wardens post. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Number of parking penalty notices issued – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 1,816 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 1,172 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 1,015 No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 1,196 No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 1,763 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of parking penalty notices has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment In comparison to last year's FQ1 figure, there is a very slight overall drop in PCNs issued across the full area of 3%. This is in line with budget expectations. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Page 25
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Appendix 1 Page 8 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Car parking income to date – Helensburgh and Lomond Performance is presented cumulatively for both Area and Council-wide levels. For individual car parks, the income presented is on a quarterly basis. Reporting Period Target (Cumulative) Actual (Cumulative) Status FQ1 2023/24 £31,127 £69,073 Green FQ2 2023/24 £77,693 £114,849 Green FQ3 2023/24 £106,037 £178,233 Green FQ4 2023/24 £128,769 £202,533 Green FQ1 2024/25 £65,925 £51,862 Red This indicator for FQ1 shows the cumulative amount of income collected is lower than the cumulative target. There is no performance trend as this data is cumulative. FQ1 Comment At present we are unable to explain why there is a shortfall in the Helensburgh and Lomond area. The weather may well be a contributing factor along with the cost of living crisis which may prevent people from travelling. All car parks are open, and the warden is in the area as often as possible. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Actual quarterly income collected in Helensburgh and Lomond during FQ4 and FQ1. Car Park Location FQ4 Actual FQ1 Actual Arrochar £7,962 £20,744 Luss, Lomond £15,671 £30,389 Sinclair Street, Helensburgh £563 £587 Maitland Street, Helensburgh £97 £7 Pier, Helensburgh £7 £19 H&L (parking permits) £0 £116 Total £24,300 £51,862 Page 26
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Appendix 1 Page 9 Car parking income to date – Argyll and Bute Performance is presented cumulatively for both Area and Council-wide levels. Reporting Period Target (Cumulative) Actual (Cumulative) Status FQ1 2023/24 £234,056 £253,705 Green FQ2 2023/24 £584,204 £486,151 Red FQ3 2023/24 £797,331 £807,348 Green FQ4 2023/24 £968,262 £937,090 Red FQ1 2024/25 £289,219 £247,216 Red This indicator for FQ1 shows the cumulative amount of income collected is lower than the cumulative target. There is no performance trend as this data is cumulative. FQ1 Comment At present we are unable to explain why there is an overall shortfall across all areas. The weather may well be a contributing factor along with the cost of living crisis which may prevent people from travelling. All car parks are open, and the wardens are in the areas as often as possible. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Page 27
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Appendix 1 Page 10 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 11 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 8 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 4 No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 8 No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 10 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of dog fouling complaints has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment There have been 10 reports of dog fouling complaints in the Helensburgh/Lomond area this quarter. The Warden service will continue to patrol in an attempt to reduce the number of complaints. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 60 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 51 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 46 No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 65 No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 57 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of dog fouling complaints has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment This quarter the section has received a total of 57 dog fouling complaints and only 1 fine was issued in the Kintyre area. This is quite a high number and our Warden service where possible will continue to monitor this when they can. Dog fouling fines are difficult to enforce as the Warden would actually have to witness Page 28
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Appendix 1 Page 11 the act and even then, the dog owner may have a medical reason as to why they are unable to pick up after their dog. However, this will not deter the Wardens and they will continue to educate people on this matter. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 29
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Appendix 1 Page 12 Corporate Outcome No.3 – 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 This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ2 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ3 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ4 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ1 2024/25 100% 100% Green This indicator for FQ1 has met the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment 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 data team and receives monthly reports specific to CECYP. The VHT offers both support and challenge to Designated Managers for CECYP across authority settings to ensure each young person has the correct framework of support to help them achieve success. 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 person’s educational journey. We continue to develop and refine our tracking and monitoring systems to ensure data is relevant and meaningful. This happens through self-evaluation and linking with wider local authorities to ensure best practice. Next steps include developing a system to formally track and monitor CECYP who are out-with our authority schools. A data sharing agreement is currently being produced for this purpose. Responsible person: Louise Chisholm Page 30
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Appendix 1 Page 13 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start COI – Provide quality meals with cost margins to all pupils This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2023/24 +/-5.00% 5.00% Green FQ2 2023/24 +/-5:00% -7.07% Red FQ3 2023/24 +/-5.00% 4.12% Green FQ4 2023/24 +/-5.00% -3.44% Green FQ1 2024/25 +/-5.00% 0.48% Green This indicator for FQ1 is within the +/-5.00% target variance and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Work continues to monitor all schools that are out with the Food cost percentage target. B&C 8.89% H&L 0.25% MAKI -4.68% OLI 1.58% Responsible person: Christine Boyle Page 31
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Appendix 1 Page 14 Corporate Outcome No.4 – Education, skills and training maximises opportunities for all Maximise the percentage of 16-19 years olds participating in education, training or employment – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 94.00% 92.54% Red FQ2 2023/24 94.00% 94.49% Green FQ3 2023/24 94.00% 92.58% Red FQ4 2023/24 94.00% 92.37% Red FQ1 2024/25 94.00% 94.16% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment As of 4th July 2024, the participation figure (16-19 year-olds in employment, training or education) in Helensburgh and Lomond was 1,178 young people, which equates to 94.16%. This is 0.16% above the target and 1.44% below the annual Argyll and Bute participation figure of 95.60%, which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2023. The participation figure of 94.16% for FQ1 of 2024/25 is an increase of 1.79% on the participation figure for FQ4 of 2023/24. Responsible person: Jennifer Crocket Maintain the percentage of 16-19 years olds in Argyll and Bute participating in education, training or employment services – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 94.00% 93.75% Red FQ2 2023/24 94.00% 95.94% Green FQ3 2023/24 94.00% 94.37% Green FQ4 2023/24 94.00% 93.59% Red FQ1 2024/25 94.00% 94.99% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. Page 32
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Appendix 1 Page 15 FQ1 Comment As of 4th July 2024, the participation figure (16-19 year-olds in employment, training or education) for the whole of Argyll and Bute was 4,287 young people, which equates to 94.99%. This is 0.99% above the target and 0.61% below the annual Argyll and Bute participation figure of 95.60%, which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2023. The participation figure of 94.99% for FQ1 of 2024/25 is an increase of 1.40% on the participation figure for FQ4 of 2023/24. Responsible person: Jennifer Crocket Page 33
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Appendix 1 Page 16 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2023/24 0 0 Green FQ2 2023/24 0 0 Green FQ3 2023/24 0 0 Green FQ4 2023/24 0 0 Green FQ1 2024/25 12 12 Green This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of completions has met the target for the reporting period. FQ1 Comment There were 12 completions for Helensburgh & Lomond during the 1st quarter of 2024/25. 8 General Needs Housing (6 x 1 bed and 2 x 2 bed units) and 4 Amenity Housing (2 x 1 bed and 2 x 2 bed units). Responsible person: Kelly Ferns Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2023/24 26 26 Green FQ2 2023/24 40 40 Green FQ3 2023/24 0 0 Green FQ4 2023/24 0 0 Green FQ1 2024/25 12 12 Green This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of completions has met the target for the reporting period. FQ1 Comment There were 12 units completed during this period. Dunbritton Housing Association – 12 units in Helensburgh 8 x 1 bed and 4 x 2 bed. B&C 0 MAKI 0 H&L 12 OLI 0 Responsible person: Kelly Ferns Page 34
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Appendix 1 Page 17 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 75.0% 34.6% Red FQ2 2023/24 75.0% 25.0% Red FQ3 2023/24 75.0% 35.7% Red FQ4 2023/24 75.0% 31.3% Red FQ1 2024/25 75.0% 50.0% Red This indicator for FQ1 is below the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted as it works through a backlog of casework that has accumulated through the Covid pandemic and which has been exacerbated by extended periods of operating with reduced staffing levels due to issues with recruitment to vacant posts, and the introduction of National Planning Framework 4. Whilst vacancies across the service have now largely been filled the focus of officers remains geared toward the resolution of statutory casework with the handling of pre-application enquiries afforded lower priority in caseload management. To assist with the management of reduced customer expectations the target for responding to pre-app enquiries has been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. Performance is now improving. During FQ1, 20 pre-apps were responded to within H&L. 55% were issued within 6 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 75.0% 55.4% Red FQ2 2023/24 75.0% 47.5% Red FQ3 2023/24 75.0% 49.1% Red FQ4 2023/24 75.0% 55.0% Red FQ1 2024/25 75.0% 49.5% Red This indicator for FQ1 is below the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Page 35
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Appendix 1 Page 18 FQ1 Comment Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted as it works through a backlog of casework that has accumulated through the Covid pandemic and which has been exacerbated by extended periods of operating with reduced staffing levels due to issues with recruitment to vacant posts, and the introduction of National Planning Framework 4. Whilst vacancies across the service have now largely been filled the focus of officers remains geared toward the resolution of statutory casework with the handling of pre-application enquiries afforded lower priority in caseload management. To assist with the management of reduced customer expectations the target for responding to pre-app enquiries has been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. During FQ1, 105 pre- apps were responded to across ABC. 57.1% were issued within 6 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 36
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Appendix 1 Page 19 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 8.0 weeks 25.1 weeks Red FQ2 2023/24 8.0 weeks 17.9 weeks Red FQ3 2023/24 8.0 weeks 15.7 weeks Red FQ4 2023/24 8.0 weeks 21.6 weeks Red FQ1 2024/25 8.0 weeks 18.2 weeks Red This indicator for FQ1 has not met the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period (lower is best). FQ1 Comment This measure only relates to planning applications received for alterations to existing premises. ?? Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted as it works through a backlog of casework that has accumulated through the Covid pandemic and which has been exacerbated by extended periods of operating with reduced staffing levels due to issues with recruitment to vacant posts, and the introduction of National Planning Framework 4. Improving resource availability has allowed the focus of the DM Service to shift from the prioritisation of the most significant applications to addressing the accrued backlog of older applications. The determination of a higher-than-normal volume of older cases has a significant impact on "average time taken" performance measures as a relatively small number of older cases can skew the outcome. It is also noted that these performance measures are based on "raw data" and as such have not been adjusted to take into account delays to determination out with the control of the planning authority. FQ4 has seen the determination of 2 'legacy' applications and continued high volume of newer case work. Performance overall has improved significantly although it is noted that the determination of older applications continues to impact on the headline figure however 83% of applications determined in FQ1 were less than 6 months old; these items were determined in an average time of 9.6 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 8.0 weeks 21.6 weeks Red FQ2 2023/24 8.0 weeks 18.1 weeks Red FQ3 2023/24 8.0 weeks 16.8 weeks Red FQ4 2023/24 8.0 weeks 20.0 weeks Red Page 37
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Appendix 1 Page 20 Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2024/25 8.0 weeks 16.1 weeks Red This indicator for FQ1 has not met the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period (lower is best). FQ1 Comment This measure only relates to planning applications received for alterations to existing premises. Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted as it works through a backlog of casework that has accumulated through the Covid pandemic and which has been exacerbated by extended periods of operating with reduced staffing levels due to issues with recruitment to vacant posts, and the introduction of National Planning Framework 4. Improving resource availability has allowed the focus of the DM Service to shift from the prioritisation of the most significant applications to addressing the accrued backlog of older applications. The determination of a higher-than-normal volume of older cases has a significant impact on "average time taken" performance measures as a relatively small number of older cases can skew the outcome. It is also noted that these performance measures are based on "raw data" and as such have not been adjusted to take into account delays to determination out with the control of the planning authority. FQ4 has seen the determination of 2 'legacy' applications and continued high volume of newer case work. Performance overall has improved significantly although it is noted that the determination of older applications continues to impact on the headline figure however 83% of applications determined in FQ1 were less than 6 months old; these items were determined in an average time of 9.6 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 38
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Appendix 1 Page 21 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – Number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 32 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 36 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 26 No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 30 No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 26 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of applicants has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment During FQ1, the housing service provided temporary accommodation for 26 new homeless households. B&C: 10 households (1 x Private Sector Property, 6 x Serviced Accommodation, 3 x Bed & Breakfast). H&L: 0 new households. MAKI: 2 household (1 x Bed & Breakfast, 1 x Serviced Accommodation). OLI: 14 households (1 x Registered Social Landlord, 4 x Private Sector Property, 1 x Serviced Accommodation, 4 x Supported Accommodation, 4 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. • Accommodation may be offered outwith the HMA area that the homeless application was taken due to availability i.e. application taken in Oban and the applicant offered accommodation in Dunoon as there was no accommodation available in Oban. B&C 10 H&L 0 MAKI 2 OLI 14 Responsible person: Morven Macintyre Page 39
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Appendix 1 Page 22 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the awards of contracts via the procurement portal This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 20.0% 10.8% Red FQ2 2023/24 20.0% 26.5% Green FQ3 2023/24 20.0% 27.8% Green FQ4 2023/24 20.0% 14.3% Red FQ1 2024/25 20.0% 36.0% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment FQ1 – 36.0% (an increase from previous quarter 14.3%). From the 24 contracts awarded, 11 local suppliers submitted a bid, 9 of which were successful (81.8%) with an estimated contract value of £10.1m. The Procurement, Commercial and Contract Management Team will continue to support local suppliers by providing useful information on the Council's website. Responsible person: Anne MacColl-Smith Page 40
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Appendix 1 Page 23 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ1 2023/24 No target - No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 37 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target - No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 37 No target FQ1 2024/25 No target - No target This indicator is reported in FQ2 and FQ4. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of community benefits has remained the same since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment The next report will be due in October 2024. Responsible person: Anne MacColl-Smith Page 41
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Appendix 1 Page 24 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Street lighting – percentage of faults repaired within 10 days – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 75% 39% Red FQ2 2023/24 75% 29% Red FQ3 2023/24 75% 46% Red FQ4 2023/24 75% 37% Red FQ1 2024/25 75% 95% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Given the summer months, the number of faults reported in FQ1 has reduced, allowing our electrician in this area to attend and repair the majority of faults. We have recently been successful in recruiting for the vacant electricians post within Helensburgh & Lomond, this has allowed an improved response time. Responsible person: Tom Murphy The percentage of street lighting faults are completed within 10 working days – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 75% 37% Red FQ2 2023/24 75% 43% Red FQ3 2023/24 75% 46% Red FQ4 2023/24 75% 49% Red FQ1 2024/25 75% 93% Green This indicator for FQ1 is below the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Given the summer months, the number of faults reported in FQ1 has reduced, allowing our electricians in all areas to attend and repair the majority of faults within the timescales set out. We have now fully recruited our team of electricians. We are in the process of recruiting a Street Lighting Inspector who will oversee all areas, and assist our Team Leader on the ground. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 42
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Appendix 1 Page 25 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 43 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 30 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 9 No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 2 No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 22 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of waste collection complaints has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment The Helensburgh and Lomond area received 22 waste collection complaints this quarter, this is still a very good level of service given the number of properties serviced and the varied waste that is collected, domestic, recycling, glass and food. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 67 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 101 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 18 No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 7 No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 38 No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of waste collection complaints has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment A total of 38 waste collection complaints were received this month for the whole of Argyll and Bute. This is an excellent level of service given the number of properties serviced and the various waste collected. Any complaints received are acted on timeously by the administration staff and waste collection staff. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 43
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Appendix 1 Page 26 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 45.0% 47.6% Green FQ2 2023/24 45.0% 59.8% Green FQ3 2023/24 45.0% 49.0% Green FQ4 2023/24 45.0% 74.0% Green FQ1 2024/25 45.0% 68.4% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment 68.4% recycling, composting and recovery during the quarter (40.9% recycling/composting plus 27.5% recovery). Figure is high mainly due to significant recovery from Helensburgh and Lomond’s general waste which now all goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy from waste (EFW) instead of being landfilled. Responsible person: John Blake Renewi (formerly Shanks) – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 53.0% No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 68.7% No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 55.3% No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 66.5% No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 56.2% No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased since the last reporting period. Page 44
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Appendix 1 Page 27 FQ1 Comment 56.2% recycling, composting and recovery during the quarter (40.2% recycling/composting plus 16% recovery). Recovery levels back to normal in this quarter after previous time limited trial by Renewi ended whereby during the trial some general waste from their sites was sent for energy from waste (EFW). Responsible person: John Blake Islands – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 39.2% No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 35.6% No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 34.2% No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 41.5% No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 45.8% No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the percentage of waste recycled has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment 45.8% recycling, composting and recovery during the quarter (32.8% recycling/composting plus 13% recovery). Increase is due to more recovery because Tiree/Coll general waste goes to same contractor as Helensburgh and Lomond. The Tiree/Coll general waste therefore is no longer landfilled and instead goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy from waste (EFW), which is classed as recovery. Responsible person: John Blake H&L – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 40.1% No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 41.6% No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 41.5% No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 100.0% No target Page 45
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Appendix 1 Page 28 Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2024/25 No target 100.0% No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the percentage of waste recycled has remained the same since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment 100% recycling, composting and recovery during the quarter (44.9% recycling/composting plus 55.1% recovery). Figure is high mainly due to significant recovery from Helensburgh and Lomond’s general waste which now all goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy from waste (EFW) instead of being landfilled. Recycling and composting was also higher than similar quarter in FQ1 last year mainly due to increased wood recycling and green garden waste composting from these segregated waste streams via the Blackhill Recycling and Civic Amenity Site (Helensburgh). Responsible person: John Blake Page 46
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Appendix 1 Page 29 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI – The number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 5,850 5,075 Green FQ2 2023/24 5,550 5,510 Green FQ3 2023/24 5,100 4,253 Green FQ4 2023/24 5,000 2,567 Green FQ1 2024/25 5,850 3,200 Green This indicator for FQ1 is below the target (lowest is best). FQ1 Comment Biodegradable municipal waste to landfill figure is well within target mainly due to significant recovery from Helensburgh and Lomond’s general waste which now all goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy from waste (EFW) instead of being landfilled. New waste disposal contractors have been appointed to deal with the general waste from the Helensburgh and Lomond area following the closure of Barr Environmental operations. Responsible person: John Blake Page 47
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Appendix 1 Page 30 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Helensburgh and Lomond (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 73 89 Green FQ2 2023/24 73 87 Green FQ3 2023/24 73 89 Green FQ4 2023/24 73 89 Green FQ1 2024/25 73 89 Green This indicator for FQ1 is above the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Helensburgh and Lomond have again this quarter well exceed the street cleanliness target. Responsible person: Tom Murphy LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Argyll and Bute (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 73 84 Green FQ2 2023/24 73 83 Green FQ3 2023/24 73 85 Green FQ4 2023/24 73 83 Green FQ1 2024/25 73 84 Green This indicator for FQ1 is above the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment All areas in Argyll and Bute have again this quarter well exceeded the target LEAMS figure, showing a very good level of street cleanliness. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 48
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Appendix 1 Page 31 Making It Happen Teacher sickness absence – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 1.55 days No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 1.43 days No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 2.26 days No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 2.56 days No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 1.70 days No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Work days lost has increased by 0.15 of a day on the same quarter last year. It has decreased by 0.86 of a day from FQ4. Most work days lost have been due to Mental Health related reasons. Responsible person: Wendy Brownlie Teacher sickness absence – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 2.15 days No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 1.25 days No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 2.82 days No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 2.82 days No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 2.14 days No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Work days lost has remained almost the same as the same quarter last year. It has decreased by 0.68 days on the same quarter last year. Most work days have been lost due to Mental Health related absence reasons. Responsible person: Jennifer Crocket (B&C and MAK) and Wendy Brownlie (H&L and OLI) Page 49
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Appendix 1 Page 32 Making It Happen LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Helensburgh and Lomond Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 3.63 days No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 3.11 days No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 3.24 days No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 3.64 days No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 3.22 days No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment Work days lost has decreased by 0.41 days on the same quarter last year. It has also decreased by 0.42 days on the last quarter. Mental Health related absences account for the largest number of work days lost. Responsible person: Carolyn Carins LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 No target 3.53 days No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 3.18 days No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 3.73 days No target FQ4 2023/24 No target 4.12 days No target FQ1 2024/25 No target 3.85 days No target This indicator for FQ1 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment There has been an increase of 0.32 days absence on the same quarter last year. There has been a decrease of 0.27 days on the last quarter. Most work days lost have been due to Mental Health related reasons. Responsible person: Carolyn Cairns Page 50
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Appendix 1 Page 33 Making It Happen COI – Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ1 2023/24 70.0% 80.7% Green FQ2 2023/24 70.0% 72.1% Green FQ3 2023/24 70.0% 72.7% Green FQ4 2023/24 70.0% 70.1% Green FQ1 2024/25 70.0% 71.6% Green This indicator for FQ1 is above the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ1 Comment In FQ1 there was 41,574 transactions dealt with by Customer Service Agents (28.4%) and 105,051 automated or self-service transactions (71.6%) so the 70.0% target was exceeded. Responsible person: Robert Miller Page 51
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE 10 SEPTEMBER 2024 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 53 Agenda Item 8
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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. Page 54
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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 August 2024 For further information contact: Jim Smith, Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services or Mark Calder, Project Manager Page 55
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 10 SEPTEMBER 2024 RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 Argyll and Bute Council is both a waste collection and waste disposal authority. 1.2 Waste disposal is dealt with by 3 separate models across the council as follows: • Island sites e.g. on Mull and Islay where landfill sites are operated directly by the council; • Helensburgh and Lomond area where waste is disposed of at sites outside of Argyll and Bute; • A 25 year (2001 – 2026) Waste PPP contract which covers the rest of Argyll and Bute. 1.3 Waste figures for all four administrative areas have been summarised within this report. Due to the way the reporting is carried out it is not possible to accurately break down the information on an area by area basis for all data. 1.4 National policy decisions, guidance and regulations e.g. relating to the Biodegradable Municipal Waste landfill ban will have a significant impact on future recycling, composting and recovery performance. 1.5 It is recommended that Members note and give consideration to the details as outlined in this report and the national policy drivers that will likely impact over the coming years. Page 57 Agenda Item 9
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MID ARGYLL KINTYRE AND ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES 10 SEPTEMBER 2024 RECYCLING AND RECOVERY PERFORMANCE 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Argyll and Bute Council is both a waste collection and waste disposal authority. Recycling, composting and recovery (i.e. other landfill diversion) statistics are reported quarterly within the council’s performance management system. Statutory returns to SEPA e.g. licensed site tonnage, landfill tax and waste data flow vary from quarterly to annual. 2.2 This report provides details on the council’s recycling and landfill diversion performance along with national policy, targets and regulations which are likely to impact on future performance. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that Members note and give consideration to the details as outlined in this report and the national policy drivers that will likely impact over the coming years. 4.0 DETAILS 4.1 The Council’s waste strategy was approved by the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee in September 2019. Whilst this strategy will emerge in line with government guidance, regulation legislation, and contractual requirements the Strategy is predicated on the model shown below in Figure 1. Page 58
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Figure 1 4.2 Argyll and Bute Council operates a performance management system. Quarterly recycling/composting, recovery and landfill percentages are included and split between the Islands waste disposal sites, Waste Management PPP and Helensburgh/Lomond areas. These details include: • percentage of waste recycled and composted; • percentage of waste recovered e.g. other landfill diversion; • combined percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered; • percentage of waste to landfill; • tonnes of biodegradable municipal waste to landfill. Percentages Summary of Landfill, Recycling, Composting and Recovery 2022 and 2023 2022 2023 Argyll & Bute wide % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 51.8% 53.0% % waste recycled and composted 37.6% 43.3% % waste recovered 14.2% 9.7% % waste landfilled 48.2% 47.0% Tonnes of municipal waste to landfill 28,265 30,872 Page 59
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Waste PPP % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 57.6% 61.2% % waste recycled and composted 36.3% 46.0% % waste recovered 21.3% 15.2% % waste landfilled 42.4% 38.8% Helensburgh & Lomond % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 44.7% 39.5% % waste recycled and composted 40.6% 39.3% % waste recovered 4.2% 0.2% % waste landfilled 55.3% 60.5% Islands % of waste recycled, composted and recovered 37.3% 36.3% % waste recycled and composted 36.7% 36.3% % waste recovered 0.6% 0 % % waste landfilled 62.7% 63.7% 4.3 Some points to note are as follows: • There was an overall improvement in recycling performance in 2023 which was mainly due to an increase in green garden waste, soils and rubble tonnages recycled by Renewi from the PPP area. • There was a drop in recovery performance in 2023 compared to 2022. This was in part due to an energy from waste trial carried out by Renewi in the PPP area in 2022, whereby Renewi sent circa 1,500 tonnes of general mixed residual general waste to an energy from waste (EFW) plant in the central belt. A similar but smaller trial was carried out by Renewi in 2023, whereby a reduced amount of circa 700 tonnes of residual general waste was sent to EFW during the year. • The drop in recovery performance was also due to a reduction in recovery from the Helensburgh and Lomond area. Following The Scottish Government introduction of a Landfill Tax Abatement Order legislation in 2022, Barr Environmental decided to discontinue their waste treatment plant from July 2022 and landfill all residual general waste at their Auchencarroch landfill site near Alexandria. With no recycling or recovery occurring from the mixed general waste at the Barr site from July 2022 onwards, this had a Page 60
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negative impact on overall recycling and recovery rates from the Helensburgh and Lomond area. The negative impact affected 6 months of figures in 2022 and the full year in 2023.This also had a minor impact on the Islands waste recovery rate which fell from 0.6% in 2022 to 0% in 2023 as the Tiree/Coll general waste was transferred to the mainland and disposed of at the Auchencarroch site. • The overall combined recycled, composted and recovery rate however increased from 51.8% in 2022 to 53% in 2023. This is mainly due to the increased recycling in the PPP area described in the first bullet point above. • The recovery in the Waste PPP area is carried out by Renewi mainly through residual waste mechanical biological treatment plants based at their waste facilities near Oban, Dunoon and Lochgilphead. In 2022 and 2023 Renewi also sent some residual general waste to an energy from waste (EFW) plant in the central belt. Waste sent for energy from waste is also classed as recovery. • The recovery in the Helensburgh and Lomond area was carried out by Barr Environmental at their Auchencarroch waste facility, near Alexandria. As described, Barr ceased operation of their mixed residual waste treatment plant following The Scottish Government Landfill Tax Abatement Order which was introduced from July 2022. Since July 2022 until the end of 2023, Barr landfilled all mixed general waste at their Auchencarroch Landfill Site. In January 2024, Barr Environmental closed the Auchencarroch landfill site and ceased operations completely at the end of March 2024. Since January 2024, Helensburgh and Lomond’s general waste has been going for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/energy from waste which will see a significant increase in recovery tonnages for 2024. • Cardboard is consistently now the most prominent recycling material in the blue recycling bin (previously paper which was the highest proportion pre- pandemic). The increase in the cardboard proportion in recent years is likely due to more on-line purchasing while newspapers are not as widely purchased in hard copy compared to previous years. • The overall percentage waste to landfill in 2023 (47.0%) was a lower percentage than 2022 (48.2%) due to the increased recycling levels in the PPP area relating mainly to green garden waste ,soils and rubble. • The tonnage of municipal waste to landfill, however in 2023 (i.e. 30,872 tonnes) was more than in 2022 (i.e.28,365 tonnes).This was mainly due to the Renewi energy from waste trial being smaller in 2023 than in 2022, plus Barr Environmental landfilled all general waste in 2023 following the cessation of their waste treatment plant from July 2022. • Recycling and composting is mainly from recycling collections to households and businesses, bring sites and segregated wastes from recycling/civic amenity sites. Recovery is predominantly moisture/process loss and compost like output from mixed waste treatment plants operated by Renewi. Page 61
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In addition there was also some recovery from a Renewi energy from waste trial where some residual general waste was sent to an energy from waste plant in the central belt. • SEPA published annual recycling, recovery and landfill data for local authorities focuses mainly on recycling/composting from household waste and less on recovery in line with the waste hierarchy. Landfill Ban 4.4 The Waste (Scotland) Regulations were introduced by the Scottish Government in 2012 and included a landfill ban of biodegradable waste from 2021. 4.5 The landfill ban planned for 2021 was subsequently delayed by The Scottish Government until the end of 2025. This delay was welcomed by the Council and provided more time for alternative solutions and funding to be sought. An update report on the Waste PPP/Landfill Ban was included in the June 2024 Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee plus additional Scottish Government funding of £1.5 million towards compliance in the PPP contract area was announced in July this year. Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) 4.6 The UK Government had indicated a planned start date of October 2025 for a UK wide deposit return scheme, however this has since been delayed until 2027. 4.7 A UK wide DRS scheme may result in an overall increase in recycling including other environmental benefits e.g. current non-recyclers may use the scheme plus there should be less littering of such items. The scheme may however, see a slight reduction in Council recycling performance if plastic drinks bottles and cans are no longer handled by Council recycling collections albeit they should still be recycled in future via the UK wide DRS scheme. Scottish Government Circular Economy Bill 4.8 During June 2024, The Scottish Government published details of its Circular Economy Bill. Further details on these Scottish Government proposals and Bill have been and will be reported at future ED&I Committees as they progress. Some of the main proposals which relate to local authorities recycling are as follows: • A Duty of Care on households regarding their waste and recycling with new powers given to local authorities for the issuing of fixed penalties to enforce this. • Local Authorities will be required to comply with a statutory code of practice on recycling. • The Scottish Government will have the powers to set mandatory recycling targets on Local Authorities from 2030 onwards. Page 62
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5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 In concluding this report, steady progress was made on overall recycling and composting performance during 2023. Recovery performance however decreased which resulted in increased tonnages to landfill in 2023. Landfill should be reduced in 2024 as the Barr Environmental Auchencarroch landfill site (near Alexandria) closed at the end of 2023.The council now uses alternative providers for the Helensburgh and Lomond general waste which now goes mainly for recovery e.g. refuse derived fuel/energy from waste. National Policy drivers such as the ban on municipal waste to landfill, the deposit return scheme and the circular economy bill will have significant implications for future recycling, composting and recovery performance. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy National policies and regulations will likely impact on future recycling, composting and recovery performance. The council’s policy is to reduce landfill. 6.2 Financial The end of 2025 ban on biodegradable waste to landfill will have financial implications. An update report was included in the June 2024 Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee. 6.3 Legal The landfill ban is a legal requirement under the Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012. Other legal requirements may likely result following The Scottish Government Circular Economy Bill e.g. statutory code of practice for recycling. 6.4 HR None known. 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 6.5.1 Equalities – protected characteristics None known. 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty None known. 6.5.3 Islands The landfill ban will require increased transport of waste off the islands of Mull and Islay from the Glengorm (Mull) and Gartbreck (Islay) waste and recycling facilities. 6.6 Climate Change The landfill ban will significantly reduce methane emissions from landfill sites however there will be additional transport related emissions with waste Page 63
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having to travel longer distances for treatment/disposal. 6.7 Risk Risks to the council on the landfill ban and any other future statutory requirements are mainly financial. A future UK wide deposit return scheme for plastic drinks containers and cans will hopefully have an overall environmental benefit, although it may impact on council recycling rates. 6.8 Customer Services None at present. 6.9 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: Councilor John Armour For further information contact: John Blake – Fleet, Waste & Transport Manager Page 64
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 10 September 2024 Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath Update 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1. This report updates Members on the progress made since the previous quarterly report to the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee in relation to the delivery of a dedicated, high quality walking and cycle path linking Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton. The delivery of this path is a stated Council Priority. 1.2. Officers investigated options for the short notice award of ecology work for Phase 1 (Colgrain – Cardross) and Phase 2 (Cardross – Dumbarton) in order to get this completed in summer 2024. Unfortunately, due to the required procurement processes award of this work in time for it to be completed in summer 2024 was not possible. 1.3. Officers are working with Procurement colleagues to issue a tender for a new contract for completion of 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. 1.4. The 2024/25 application for additional funds from Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone (PFE) programme, administered by Sustrans, to enable the completion of the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Developed and Technical Design stages remains outstanding. 1.5. The Feasibility (Stage 1) report for Helensburgh Town Centre East (Phase 3) remains in draft form with funders for comment. 1.6. As 24/25 PFE funding has been made available for the Concept Design (Stage 2) for Helensburgh Town Centre East (Phase 3) the incumbent design team will be recommencing work on this phase of the design in late August 2024. It is programmed that the Concept Design work will be completed within 2024/25. 1.7. Internally, Officers continue to await final 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 engage with colleagues in Legal Services to seek to progress approval from Council to develop a CPO for the remaining sections of this important route. Page 65 Agenda Item 10
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RECOMMENDATIONS 1.8. It is recommended that the Helensburgh and Lomond members: 1.8.1. Instruct Officers, subject to securing external funding, to appoint a new design team to complete development of Phase 1 and Phase 2 designs through Developed Design and Technical Design stages. 1.8.2. Instruct Legal Services to utilise the Council’s statutory powers as necessary to ensure access to private land for surveys required as part of the design process where landowner permission is not forthcoming. 1.8.3. Support progression of the project to full Technical Design, as required by the external funder. Page 66
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 10 September 2024 Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath Update 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1. This report updates Members of the progress made since the previous quarterly report to the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee in relation to the delivery of a dedicated, high quality walking and cycle path linking Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton. The delivery of this path is a stated Council Priority. 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. Instruct Officers, subject to securing external funding, to appoint 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 Legal Services to utilise the Council’s statutory powers as necessary to ensure access to private land for surveys required as part of the design process where landowner permission is not forthcoming. 3.1.3. Support progression of the project to full Technical Design, as required by the external funder. 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. 4.2. In 2023/24 the Active Travel Team secured £2.56M external funding for the development and delivery of a total of 22 projects across Argyll and Bute, including the Helensburgh – Cardross – Dumbarton Cyclepath. This required 18 separate competitive funding applications, to 5 separate funds. Funding Page 67
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4.3. Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone (PFE) programme is the primary external active travel design funding available in Scotland. 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. 4.4. As of 2024/25, the construction element of the funding has been taken into a separate competitive fund, Transport Scotland’s Active Travel Infrastructure Fund (ATIF). ATIF still requires a separate competitive application to be submitted but is, currently, only open for applications once a year. All projects submitted to ATIF must be ready in all respects to commence construction, including having any legal or regulatory approvals required in place, and have match funding in place covering up to 30% of construction costs. 4.5. A minimum of three new competitive funding submissions are required to complete a project using external funding, with competitive applications required, as a minimum, to PFE prior to Stage 0 (Strategic Definition) and Stage 3 (Developed Design) and to the new Transport Scotland ATIF prior to Stage 5 (Construction). 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. Match Funding 4.7. The applications guidance for the new Transport Scotland Active Travel Infrastructure Fund (ATIF) for construction ready projects states that all projects submitted for construction funding will require some element of match funding, up to maximum of 30%. However, the guidance does not specify a minimum match funding percentage. Rather it states that the ATIF team will engage during the assessment process to determine the requirements for match funding. 4.8. While the lack of a specific match funding value to plan against is unhelpful, based on the 30% of construction value, it is recommended Members plan based on the cyclepath requiring construction match funding of £2M. 4.9. Phasing construction over a number of financial years will reduce the level of match funding the Council must provide 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. Page 68
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4.10. At present no construction match funding has 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 Council Priority. Maintenance 4.11. Sustrans have requested a written maintenance plan and confirmation of how this will be funded and undertaken as a deliverable during the remaining 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. 4.12. 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. However, it is acknowledged these teams are already near capacity delivering the Roads and Infrastructure Service commitments. The Roads and Infrastructure Service has previously stated they do not wish to adopt sections of cyclepath remote from the public road. 4.13. Members may wish to consider if there is a role for other organisations and/or local community group volunteers to support the routine maintenance of the cyclepath. While unlikely to be skilled or qualified for the less frequent ‘technical’ maintenance of drainage or path surfacing, other groups may be able and willing to assist with the more routine elements of maintenance, for example cutting back vegetation / mowing the grass. Similar maintenance work is undertaken by community groups for cyclepaths in other locations. Design Phase 1 Colgrain to Cardross & Phase 2 Cardross to Dumbarton 4.14. Officers investigated options for the short notice award of ecology work for Phase 1 (Colgrain – Cardross) and Phase 2 (Cardross – Dumbarton) in order to get this completed in summer 2024. Unfortunately, due to the required procurement processes award of this work in time for it to be completed in summer 2024 was not possible. 4.15. Following termination of WSP’s contract in March 2024, Officers have been reviewing the significant amount of data provided by WSP to identify the outstanding items of work which require to be completed to deliver a robust design package and to satisfy funder requirements. 4.16. To date, Officers have identified a number of required deliverables which were not completed by WSP prior to termination of their commission: Page 69
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• Ground Investigation • Habitats Regulation Appraisal • Planning Approval • Utility Identification • Drainage Design • Flood Risk Assessment • Land valuation • Archaeological Assessment • Site clearance drawings • Bill of Quantities • Pre-construction information pack • Delivery Plan • Contractor procurement strategy* • Monitoring and Evaluation Plan* • Behaviour Change Plan* • Community Engagement Plan* • Business Case* • Cycle by Design Review* • Maintenance Plan* *These are requirements introduced by the external funder after the contract was awarded to WSP in 2021. 4.17. Officers have applied for 24/25 funding from Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone Programme to enable this work to continue via a new design team to complete Developed Design (Stage 3) and, in 25/26, Technical Design (Stage 4). A decision in regard to 2024/25 funding is expected in late summer 2024. 4.18. Officers are working with Procurement colleagues to draft and issue a tender for a new contract for completion of 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. 4.19. A key element of the outstanding design deliverables are on-site survey work, including Ecological surveys and Ground Investigation (GI) surveys. When previously contacted, the majority 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 design team once in place, it may be necessary for the Council to use its statutory powers to require landowners who do not voluntarily allow access for surveys to provide the access required. 4.20. At time of writing, Officers continue to await final 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 Page 70
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4.21. The Feasibility report (Stage 1) for Helensburgh Town Centre East (Phase 3) is currently in draft form and has been provided to the Transport Scotland Places for Everyone team at Sustrans for comment, as required by their funding agreement. 4.22. Officers have applied for 24/25 funding from Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone Programme to enable this work to continue to completion of Concept Design (Stage 2) in 2024/25. A decision in regard to 2024/25 funding is expected in late summer 2024. Construction (stage 5) Cardross Rail Station to Geilston Burn 4.23. 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. 4.24. 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. 4.25. 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. Land Acquisition 4.26. The delay in award of 2024/25 funding and the requirement to tender for a new design team to complete the design will result in a hiatus in relation to providing information requested by landowners including, for example, detailed drainage designs. Officers will be writing to affected landowner to inform them once a new design team are in place to progress the discussions. 4.27. Officers continue to engage with colleagues in Legal Services to seek to progress approval from Council to develop a CPO for the remaining sections of this important route. Risk 4.28. 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. 4.29. Project risks relate to risks which could affect the overall project. Table 1 provides the top 5 identified project risks and planned mitigation Page 71
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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. 4.30. 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 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 High 1. Engage with regulators, e.g. NatureScot, at early stage in design. Page 72
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RAMSAR site results in additional ecological requirements which the designs must meet. 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. Programme 4.31. 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. 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 Page 73
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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 SOA outcomes 2: We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth and 5: People live active, healthier and independent lives. 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 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 Page 74
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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. Executive Director with the responsibility for Development and Economic Growth: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads, Transport and Amenity Services: Councilor John Armour 06 August 2024 For further information contact: Colin Young Strategic Transportation Delivery Officer Colin.Young@argyll-bute.gov.uk Tel: 01546 604275 Appendix 1: Helensburgh, Cardross & Dumbarton Cyclepath Programme Page 75
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Appendix 1: Helensburgh, Cardross & Dumbarton Cyclepath Programme Activity 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 2029/30 2030/31 2031/32 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 H&L Area Committee - 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 H&L Area Committee - 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 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 Blue: Road and Infrastructure Service Orange: Estates Service Red: Legal Purple: External to Council (e.g. Scottish Government) Page 77
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Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee Workplan 2024-2025 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment September 2024 10 September 2024 Area Performance Report – FQ1 2024/25 Customer Support Services – Lorna Gillies Quarterly Report 16 August 2024 10 September 2024 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Roads and Infrastructure – Mark Calder Quarterly Report 16 August 2024 10 September 2024 Recycling and Recovery Performance Roads and Infrastructure – John Blake Annual Report 16 August 2024 10 September 2024 Police Scotland Update Police Scotland – Inspector Bart Simonis Quarterly Report 16 August 2024 10 September 2024 Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath Update Development and Economic Growth – Colin Young Quarterly Report 16 August 2024 10 September 2024 CHARTS (Argyll and the Isles) Seymour Adams Annual Report 16 August 2024 December 2024 10 December 2024 Area Performance Report – FQ2 2024/25 Customer Support Services – Lorna Gillies Quarterly Report 15 November 2024 10 December 2024 Argyll and Bute HSCP Performance Report 2023/24 Health and Social Care Partnership – Charlotte Craig Annual Report 15 November 2024 Page 79 Agenda Item 11
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Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee Workplan 2024-2025 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 10 December 2024 Argyll and Bute HSCP Performance Report FQ1 2024/25 Health and Social Care Partnership – Charlotte Craig Bi-Annual Report 15 November 2024 10 December 2024 Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds Legal & Regulatory Support – Stuart McLean Annual Report 15 November 2024 10 December 2024 Police Scotland Update Police Scotland – Inspector Bart Simonis Quarterly Report 15 November 2024 10 December 2024 Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath Update Development and Economic Growth – Colin Young Quarterly Report 15 November 2024 10 December 2024 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Roads and Infrastructure – Mark Calder Quarterly Report 15 November 2024 March 2025 11 March 2025 Supporting Communities Fund – End of Project Monitoring Report Chief Executive – David Hagerty Annual Report 14 February 2025 Page 80
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Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee Workplan 2024-2025 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 11 March 2025 Area Performance Report – FQ3 2024/25 Customer Support Services – Lorna Gillies 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 Update Development and Economic Growth – Colin Young Quarterly Report 14 February 2025 11 March 2025 Primary School Report Education – Brendan Docherty Annual Report 14 February 2025 11 March 2025 Housing Services Activity Update - Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) - Annual Update Development and Economic Growth – Douglas Whyte Annual Report 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 Page 81
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Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee Workplan 2024-2025 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 10 June 2025 Area Performance Report – FQ4 2024/25 Customer Support Services – Lorna Gillies Quarterly Report 16 May 2025 10 June 2025 Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton Cyclepath Update Development and Economic Growth – Colin Young Quarterly 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 – Hermitage Academy Education – Douglas Morgan Annual Report 16 May 2025 Page 82