Public reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 9 May 2023
Back to Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group — 9 May 2023 and its agenda
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Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 602127 Fax: 01546 604435 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 28 April 2023 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP will be held ON A HYBRID BASIS BY MICROSOFT TEAMS AND IN THE MARRIAGE SUITE IN THE HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND CIVIC CENTRE on TUESDAY, 9 MAY 2023 at 2:00 PM, which you are requested to attend. BUSINESS 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTES (a) Meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Community Planning Group held on 14 February 2023 (Pages 5 - 16) 4. IMPROVING LIVES IN ARGYLL AND BUTE Presentation by the Community Planning and Development Team 5. PARTNER UPDATES (a) Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Update (Pages 17 - 22) (b) Police Scotland Update - TO FOLLOW (c) Ministry of Defence Police Update (Pages 23 - 24) (d) Transport Scotland Update (Pages 25 - 26) (e) Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Update (Pages 27 - 40) (f) Argyll and Bute Council’s Community Development Team Update (Pages 41 - 42) Public Document Pack
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(g) Argyll and Bute TSI Update (Pages 43 - 44) (h) UHI Argyll Update (Pages 45 - 46) (i) Live Argyll - Community Learning Services Update (Pages 47 - 48) (j) Jean's Bothy Update (Pages 49 - 52) (k) Plastic Free Helensburgh Update (Pages 53 - 54) (l) Helensburgh Community Council Update - TO FOLLOW (m) Opportunity for Verbal Updates 6. ARGYLL AND BUTE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP PUBLIC HEALTH ANNUAL REPORT Report by Health Improvement Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (Pages 55 - 58) 7. WELFARE RIGHTS, ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Presentation by Susan Tuite, Senior Welfare Rights Officer 8. LUSS & ARDEN LOCAL PLACE PLAN Presentation by Andy McClay, Luss and Arden Community Council (Pages 59 - 104) 9. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Home Start Lomond (Pages 105 - 118) Presentation by Laura Eales, Home Start Lomond (b) Helensburgh Winter Festival Presentation by Gail Broadhurst 10. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Climate Change Working Group Highlight Report (Pages 119 - 122) Report by Chair of Climate Change Working Group 11. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE UPDATE Report By Committee Manager (Pages 123 - 128) 12. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 22 August 2023. Helensburgh and Lomond Community Planning Group Contact: Julieann Small, Senior Committee Assistant - 01546 604043
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MINUTES OF MEETING OF THE HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP HELD BY MICROSOFT TEAMS AND IN THE MARRIAGE ROOM, HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND CIVIC CENTRE on TUESDAY, 14 FEBRUARY 2023 Present: David Moore (Chair), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Sarah Davies, Fun First/Plastic Free Helensburgh/Helensburgh Community Council David Hagerty, Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council Gill Simpson, Helensburgh Community Hub Katrina Sayer, Jean’s Bothy Victoria Daveney, Argyll College UHI Audrey Cullen, Carr Gomm Paula Darbyshire, Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface John McLuckie, Community Planning Partnership Lead, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Mark Irvine Duncan MacLachlan, Arrochar & Tarbet Community Development Trust/Friends of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs Jayne Burnett, Visiting Friends Rita Easterbrook, Department for Work and Pensions Angela Anderson, Time for Change Argyll and Bute/Plastic Free Helensburgh Mary McGinley, Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank Jackie Westerman, Home Energy Efficiency Project Officer, Argyll and Bute Council PC Andrew Barron, Police Scotland Fiona Baker, Destination Helensburgh Vicky Brindley, Naval Families Federation Andy Galloway, Local Democracy Reporter Alasdair MacCuish, Helensburgh Gaelic Group Councillor Fiona Howard Councillor Paul Donald-Kennedy John Auld, Cove and Kilcreggan Community Council 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting and general introductions were made. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of: Jen Broadhurst, Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB); Morevain Martin, Garelochhead Station Trust; Rhona Grant, Community Learning Services, Live Argyll; Laura Eales, Home Start Lomond; Neil MacFarlane, Transport Scotland; Susan MacRae, Skills Development Scotland; Janice Kennedy, Scottish Enterprise; and Sam Campbell, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Page 5 Agenda Item 3a
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2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTES (a) Meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group held on Tuesday 8 November 2022 The minutes of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group meeting held on Tuesday 8 November 2022 were approved as a correct record. 4. GOVERNANCE (a) Area Community Planning Group Governance Arrangements The group gave consideration to a report which outlined the governance arrangements of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group (Area CPG) specifically the Terms of Reference, membership and future meeting dates. The Committee Manager confirmed that organisational contacts could be updated as required, and noted that any suggestions for new organisations to join the group could be submitted to Stuart McLean or Julieann Small following the meeting. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group: 1. considered and adopted the Terms of Reference submitted at Appendix 1 of the report and to agreed that they would be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure their ongoing currency and appropriateness for the work of the Area CPG as it developed over time; 2. considered and agreed the membership of the Group at Appendix 2 of the report, subject to the inclusion of Naval Families Federation and Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank, and agreed that the membership of the Group would be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure currency and appropriateness for the work of the group as it developed over time; and 3. noted the dates for future meetings of Tuesday 9 May 2023, Tuesday 22 August 2023, Tuesday 7 November 2023, Tuesday 13 February 2024 and Tuesday 7 May 2024. (Reference: Report by Governance Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 14 February 2023, submitted) 5. PARTNER UPDATES (a) Scottish Fire and Rescue Update The Group considered a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ3 review of local performance across Helensburgh and Lomond for the Page 6
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period 2022-23. The report included information on the local firefighter training plan; incidents during this time period; unwanted fire alarm signals; road and water safety campaigns; recent community engagement activities and home fire safety. Sarah Davies enquired about land at the former Hermitage Primary School, owned by Argyll and Bute Council, where a fire broke out and asked what was happening to the land. The Committee Manager noted Sarah’s question and advised that he would forward to the relevant department and get a response for Sarah. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted) (b) Police Scotland Update Consideration was given to an update which included information on the ongoing work of the Service and provided information on the launch of the second phase of the ‘Don’t Be That Guy’ campaign; the ‘Not At Home’ protocol which launched locally on the 9th of January 2023; the Distress Brief Intervention which is currently being rolled out throughout Argyll and Bute; the Rural Watch extension of the Neighbourhood Watch Scotland movement and the Police Youth Volunteer programme. Discussion took place in relation to Youth Volunteers and PC Barron advised that the programme has been very popular with it being over prescribed, members of the Group enquired when the Youth Volunteers would be available to help with community activities and events. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Police Scotland, submitted) (c) Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership - Public Health Update The Group considered a public health update from Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership on the ongoing wellbeing and prevention activities overseen and delivered by the HSCP Public Health Team in Argyll and Bute. The update highlighted information on the launch of year 4 of the Living Well (self-management) Community Capacity Building Fund; the Community Link Working service; the newly launched Health Improvement website and health screening awareness. It was highlighted that further information on NHS Screening Programmes could be found at NHS Inform. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group: Page 7
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1. considered and noted the information provided; and 2. noted that in the absence of a representative from Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, any questions could be forwarded to them following the meeting and any responses circulated to the Group. (Reference: Report by Health Improvement Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, submitted) (d) Live Argyll - Community Learning Services Update The Group considered a written update by Rhona Grant, Live Argyll - Community Learning Service, which provided information relating to adult learning in Helensburgh which includes supporting a weekly drop in hub every Wednesday; Digital Boost; Jean’s Bothy and Garelochhead Station Trust digital drop In’s and the Get I.T started digital basic course. The update also included information on Youth Services in Helensburgh which highlighted the new appointment of the Live Argyll Community Learning Services Youth Team Leader and consultation events run by MSYPs across Argyll. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group: 1. considered and noted the information provided; and 2. noted that in the absence of a representative from Live Argyll Community Learning Services, any questions could be forwarded to them following the meeting and any responses circulated to the Group. (Reference: Report by Rhona Grant, Team Leader – Community Learning Services, Live Argyll, submitted) (e) UHI Argyll Update The Group gave consideration to an update by UHI Argyll. The update provided information on courses currently being offered and it was highlighted that they have seen a rise in pupils returning to the classroom this year with all UHI centres currently providing additional support in response to the rising living cost. The update also highlighted that the Centre in Helensburgh had recently installed a defibrillator unit for public use with a training session planned. It was noted that the next open day was to be held on Tuesday 28th of March. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by UHI Argyll, submitted) Page 8
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(f) Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Update The Group gave consideration to a written update report from Argyll and Bute Citizen’s Advice Bureau including information on the significant ongoing rise in requests from clients for advice and support with energy costs; the recruitment campaign for volunteer advisers; the annual consultation exercise and the research project for 2023. Partners noted that they could participate in the consultation which could be found at: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ABCABCommunityPartnersSurvey/ Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group: 1. considered and noted the information provided; and 2. noted that in the absence of a representative from Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau, any questions could be forwarded to them following the meeting and any responses circulated to the Group. (Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau, submitted) (g) Department for Work and Pensions Update The Group gave consideration to an update from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) providing statistical information on the number of customers claiming universal credit and legacy benefits; job seekers allowance; employment and support allowance; and income support. Further information was provided in relation to a number of targeted packages of support for the most vulnerable which included the benefit uprating; the new cost of living payments; the benefit cap rise and employment and support allowance. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Employer & Partnership Manager, Department for Work and Pensions, dated 11 January 2023, submitted) (h) Community Development, Argyll and Bute Council Update Consideration was given to an update from David Hagerty, Community Development Officer at Argyll and Bute Council. The update included information on the Argyll Bute Outcome Improvement Plan Consultation which the team have been engaging recently with elderly and disabled people using a non-digital format and the Supporting Communities Fund which opened to not-for-profit community organisations on the 9th of February, with applications being welcomed until the 30th of March. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and Page 9
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noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council, submitted) (i) Argyll and Bute TSI Update The Group gave consideration to an update by Paula Darbyshire of Argyll and Bute TSI which included information on the Argyll and Bute Community Directory Self Service functionality; the warm spaces list which continues to be updated with the Inveraray Hub still being offered as a warm space for community groups to meet; the Cost of Living Crisis information page; the partnership with The Skills Network to offer fully funded courses; the Positive Destination programme; the Volunteer conference held in December; the All Children Network meeting and the Social Enterprise Network meeting both being held in February and the first Community Network Breakfast being held at the end of February. Discussion took place in relation to Warm Spaces and the accessibility of this information. It was suggested that this information may not be accessible for everyone as not everyone uses the internet. Councillor Howard suggested putting the information in places where elderly people may attend regularly like local shops or doctor surgeries. The Committee Manager advised that he would contact Argyll and Bute Council’s Communications Team, Live Argyll and HSCP to see how this information can be further circulated. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Argyll TSI, submitted) (j) Helensburgh Community Council Update The Group considered an update from Sarah Davies, Helensburgh Community Council, which provided an overview of the Community Council’s activities. It was highlighted that the new Community Councillors are settling well into their roles; monthly meetings continue to be held on the last Thursday of each month; the results of the consultation on the proposal to remove Crossing Patrollers from Helensburgh Primary Schools and the continuing monitoring and interest in the proposals for a new development on the waterfront. The update also provided information on the Community Clubs Event which is to be held on the 4th of March in Hermitage Academy and the monthly beach cleans which will restart on the 25th of February. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Sarah Davies, Helensburgh Community Council, submitted) Page 10
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(k) Fun First Update Consideration was given to an update from Sarah Davies, Fun First. The update highlighted that they continue to run family sessions during the term time and in addition Baby Massage and Baby Yoga sessions are being run. The update also provided information on the joint sessions with Albatross Arts which were very successful and funded through the Argyll and Bute Community Fund and the Fun First Friends monthly session for new or expectant parents which continue to be run. Sarah advised that Fun First recently received funding from the National Lottery and have been selected as one of the Co-op’s community causes for 2022/2023. It was noted that Fun First will be holding their AGM in March with community attendance welcome. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Sarah Davies, Fun First, submitted) (l) Jean's Bothy Update The Group considered an update from Katrina Sayer of Jean’s Bothy. The update included information on the current membership numbers; the collaboration with Helensburgh Community Hub and Helensburgh & Lomond Carers on a Book Festival; a Social Work student on a work placement with them; the offering of free counselling sessions; the recruitment of new volunteers; the IncludED Short Film Launch; “The Life Aquatic Project” expedition and the recruitment of Member Representatives. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Katrina Sayer, Jean’s Bothy, dated February 2023, submitted) (m) Opportunity for Verbal Updates Gill Simpson, Helensburgh Community Hub Gill thanked partners for all the support provided in relation to the launch of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and added that they now have 40 children registered from Helensburgh East and Central. Gill highlighted the recent collaboration with Jean’s Bothy and Lomond Carers on the ‘Reading Minds’ Book Festival to be held in March which is aimed to appeal to people who may not usually be a reader and asked partners to encourage people to come along. Page 11
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Duncan MacLachlan, Arrochar and Tarbet Community Development Trust/ Friends of Loch Lomond Duncan advised that the Arrochar and Tarbet Community Council is progressing with a local survey concerning the development of a Place Plan and that this was close to completion. It was highlighted that Loch Lomond Trossachs National Park is upgrading the car park at Tarbet to accommodate visitors. Alasdair MacCuish, Helensburgh Gaelic Group Alasdair highlighted that the Gaelic Group is ongoing at Helensburgh Parish Church on Tuesday afternoons from 2pm-4pm with anyone welcome to attend. Angela Anderson, Plastic Free Helensburgh Angela highlighted the very successful collaboration with the GRAB Trust and Time for Change in hosting 2 screenings of The Oil Machine and added that after the show there were many good discussions with attendees. Angela advised that The Oil Machine is available on BBC Iplayer and it was well worth a watch. It was highlighted that the first beach clean of the year would be on Saturday 25th of February. Angela Anderson, Time for Change, Argyll and Bute Angela highlighted that Time for Change are currently involved in a campaign involving Strathclyde Pension Scheme’s investments into fossil fuel companies. Transport Scotland In the absence of Neil MacFarlane the Committee Manager provided the following update which was submitted before the meeting: There are no major Trunk Road operations planned for the A82 in the next few weeks however attendees may have noted that the A82 was closed overnight between Ardvorlich and Pulpit Rock in the recent past to finish off road repairs that had to be put off at the tail end of last year. Angela Anderson advised that a second lot of road closure signs are needed as by the time drivers see the closure signs they are past them. The Committee Manager took note of Angela’s comment and advised he would pass it onto Neil MacFarlane at Transport Scotland. Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) In the absence of Allan Comrie the Committee Manager provided the following update which was submitted before the meeting: Supported bus services – SPT area (Service 302: Carrick Castle-Helensburgh) - No fares increase implemented and no service reduction post-Covid Rail: Liaised with ScR as per Inverclyde services and will continue to work with ScR Page 12
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as regards any future costed options which may be presented for the lines. Concession Fares: Fares freeze on Calmac and ScR help sustain the funding available as regards re-imbursement payments. No decision has been made as regards any future fares level or structure but remain mindful of current Cost-of- Living issues. The next Joint Committee meeting is on 17th March 2023. Calmac: SPT is hoping to convene a meeting with Calmac to discuss Ar Turus ticketing scheme and the offer it can make as regards Concession Fare administration. Capital Programme with A&B Council: Rosneath Cycle Route Feasibility; Helensburgh Bus Infrastructure Improvements Fiona Baker, Destination Helensburgh Fiona advised that the Gateway to Argyll Map is coming along well; Art students from Glasgow School of Art are doing a project on branding in Helensburgh and the first cruise ship is due in May with Destination Helensburgh organising excursions and hoping for many more ships to arrive in the future. 6. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Naval Families Federation Consideration was given to a presentation by Vicky Brindley from the Naval Families Federation (NFF), the presentation included information on who they are, how they can help, their vision and values and how to contact them. Vicky highlighted the vision of the NFF was for members and families of those serving with the Royal Navy (RN) and Marines to: Have their views heard by those in a position of power; Feel Valued; Be treated with fairness and respect and to thrive in their communities of choice. She also highlighted their values which are: respectful; constructive; trustworthy; empowering; evidence-based and independent. Vicky spoke about the Homeport free Magazine which is delivered to RN and Marine families on a quarterly basis and advised that she would be happy to include anything related to the area in the magazine. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Verbal report by Vicky Brindley, Naval Families Federation) (b) Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank The Group considered an update from Mary McGinley, Chairperson, Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank. The update highlighted that they continue to see an increased demand from those finding it difficult to feed themselves or their families. The update also highlighted the amount of food bags issued and the amount of adults and children supported between 01/11/21 to 31/01/2022 and from 01/11/22 to Page 13
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31/01/2023 which reveals an increase of 21% in food bags issued and an increase of 49.7% in numbers supported as more families are requiring the support. It was added that they are very well supported by the local community with regular donations of food and cash and highlighted that they have recently recruited new volunteers but there is concern that if the high demand continues to increase the service will become overstretched. At the previous meeting the Group had asked Mary what they could do as a Group to support the Foodbank and Mary advised that they would like to see better support for people will financial difficulties; more promotion of the Worrying about Money leaflet and Advisory and Support Agencies to direct those in need to cash first options which may result in them not needing to attend the Foodbank. Discussion was had around ways the Community can support the foodbank, such as donating of vouchers or cash. It was suggested that Loyalty Card schemes such as the Co-op’s may be a good way to donate to the foodbank with the transferring of points, Councillor Mark Irvine said he would explore the option and see if it was possible. Action – Stuart McLean to contact Argyll and Bute Council, Welfare Rights Team and invite them to attend a future meeting of the Group. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Verbal report by Mary McGinley, Chairperson, Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank) 7. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Report by Chair of Climate Change Working Group Consideration was given to a report which highlighted the ongoing work of the Climate Change Working Group. The report outlined the proposal to produce a strategic Action Plan as a means to address the climate emergency in Argyll and Bute; the development of governance arrangements and structures to support the Climate Change Project Officer post. It was highlighted that they are actively pursuing the recruitment of a Project Manager to start this Action Plan work and hope to have someone in post before the end of the financial year. Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Chair of the Community Planning Partnership Climate Change Working Group, dated 20 January 2023, submitted) Page 14
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(b) Home Energy Efficiency Jackie Westerman, Home Energy Efficiency Project Officer for Argyll and Bute Council provided the Group with a verbal presentation on Home Energy Efficiency and the funds available to people within Argyll and Bute. Jackie highlighted that the premise of the Energy Efficient Scotland Scheme is to reduce carbon emissions to contribute to the Scottish Governments aim to have 0% emissions by 2040, adding that fuel poverty has been an important aspect of her work. Jackie reported that the Energy Efficient Scotland Area Based Scheme is available to home owners or private rented tenants with grant amounts dependent on property type and personal circumstances, with awards starting at £8,500 for a flat and a maximum of £13,500 for a detached property. Jackie highlighted that from July 2022 until now, £1.12million has been spent in Argyll and Bute and that more than 130 households in Argyll and Bute have been insulated in this year’s programme. It was noted that Jackie was happy to attend any events or talks related to Home Energy Efficiency and could be contacted by email at: jacqueline.westerman@argyll- bute.gov.uk Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Verbal report by Home Energy Efficiency Project Officer, Argyll and Bute Council) 8. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE UPDATE Consideration was given to a briefing note which provided information on matters discussed during a meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee, held on 7 December 2022. The Committee Manager outlined a number of key highlights from the meeting, with it being noted that the closing date for the consultation survey being conducted by the MSYP’s in respect of the review of the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan had been extended until 28 February 2023. Partners were encouraged to take part in the consultation, which can be found at Improving lives in Argyll and Bute (argyll-bute.gov.uk) Decision The Helensburgh and Lomond Community Planning Group considered and noted the briefing note. (Reference: Report by Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 14 February 2023, submitted) Page 15
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9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The Chair thanked everyone in attendance at the meeting, and thanked all partners for their continued proactive work in the community. The Group noted that the next meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group would take place on Tuesday, 9 May 2023 at 2pm. Page 16
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Helensburgh and Lomond CPG Briefing Report Q4 2022/23 Performance & Activity Report From: 1st January 2023 To: 31st March 2023 Page 17 Agenda Item 5a
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Introduction Welcome to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Community Board Performance Report. This performance report is designed to provide citizens, stakeholders and partners with information relating to Community Board based activity undertaken by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Whilst using historic statistical benchmarking data, consideration must be taken of the somewhat random nature of fire related incidents and events, and how this can pose difficulties in interpreting emerging patterns and trends. This is of specific relevance where Community Board level data is analysed due to the relatively small number of actual incidents/events that occur in Community Board areas. However, regardless of statistical anomalies, emerging patterns and trends in fire related incidents and events can assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Community Planning Partners plan and implement preventative intervention initiatives to target reducing fire related incidents and events. Local Firefighter Training Plan Below is a list of subjects the operational crews have been focusing on within this period. Each subject has been covered both practically and theoretically and recorded in the Fire Service Training recording system. Training Subjects January /February/March CFBT Tac Vent Casualty Care RTC and Extrication Knotts, Ladders & Pumps Incident Command Page 18
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Accidental Dwelling Fires (ADF) Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Helensburgh & Lomond South 2.7 5 2 Helensburgh Central 2.3 2 2 Lomond North 1 1 2 Community Board Total 6 8 6 ADF Casualties Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Helensburgh & Lomond South 0 0 0 Helensburgh Central 0 0 0 Lomond North 0 0 0 Community Board Total 0 0 0 Deliberate Secondary Fire Setting Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Helensburgh & Lomond South 3.0 4 1 Helensburgh Central 1.0 1 0 Lomond North 1.3 2 1 Community Board Total 4.7 7 2 Page 19
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Fires in Non-Domestic Property Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Helensburgh & Lomond South 1.0 0 1 Helensburgh Central 0.6 1 1 Lomond North 1.0 0 1 Community Board Total 1.3 1 3 Casualties from Non-Fire Emergencies Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Helensburgh & Lomond South 2.0 1 4 Helensburgh Central 0.3 1 0 Lomond North 0.6 2 0 Community Board Total 3 4 4 Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Helensburgh & Lomond South 3.6 8 1 Helensburgh Central 18 16 25 Lomond North 7.6 11 4 Community Board Total 29 35 30 Page 20
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Incidents/Activities of Note Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS) We’re continually working with partners and targeting our top offenders, which are Education including Infant/Primary/Secondary Schools, and Residential/Care Homes. A new UFAS mobilisation policy has been devised by a dedicated project team within SFRS with an aim at reducing UFAS Incidents further. This policy will go live 1st July 2023 and should result in a reduction of unwanted fire alarm signals. Road & Water Safety campaigns We’ve been working alongside Police Scotland, RNLI and various other Partners across all sectors, engaging with the local community at various identified hotspots. We provided advice and literature relevant to Road & Water Safety (including drug and alcohol misuse and ASB), as well as providing Throwline and CPR Training to local businesses and members of the public. Local Area Liaison Officer WC McGloin attended a Road Safety Seminar at Edinburgh International Conference Centre on the 21st March. The Community Action Team also attended a PAWS Workshop at Hermitage Academy on the 30th March to roll out new water safety presentations to Argyll and Bute’s Schools – Various Partners in attendance including RNLI, Police Scotland, Water Safety Scotland and Education. Community Engagement Activities • Post Domestic Incident Response (PDIR) following every domestic incident • Community Action Team (CAT) visited various Caravan and campsites offering appropriate fire safety advice • CAT team provided fire safety leaflets and information to Helensburgh & Lomond foodbank • CAT team provided CPR demonstrations to Helensburgh & Lomond young carers • Fire, Water & Road Safety provided to schools and local community groups with practical demonstrations using new interactive scenario floorboards. • Continue to deliver Fire Safety advice via HFSVs and provision of smoke detection • Representation on Multi Agency Risk Assessment (MARAC) for those affected by domestic violence • Continue to support ‘Make the Call’ campaign and On Call recruitment drive for retained and volunteer stations within Argyll and Bute • Supporting Partnership Approach to Water Safety (PAWS) group and engaging with the public: #RESPECTTHEWATER campaign • Engaging with communities utilising winter/spring Thematic Action Plans TAP • Victim support referral pathway set up • Careers engagement pathway delivered to all schools for fire service employment EWDAB LSO Activities • Continued roll out of new fleet SFRS Electric Vehicles within the area • New Virtual Reality headsets acquired in preparation for road safety awareness within the community • We held two On Call Seminars held at Oban Fire station for all of Argyll and Bute’s crews • Watch Commander Tony McGloin joined EWDABs Community Action Team as one of our Local Area Liaison Officers Page 21
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Home Fire Safety As part of our commitment to building a safer Scotland we offer everyone in Scotland a free home fire safety visit. We'll help you sort out a fire escape plan and provide information about smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms. For a Free Home Fire Safety Visit, please: Call 0800 0731 999 Text "FIRE" to 80800 from your mobile phone. Twitter link: https://twitter.com/abewdhq Page 22
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Ministry of Defence Police Update Protests (HMNB Clyde) - Four arrests were made by MDP/Pol Scot in April after protests had taken place between north and south gate. Traffic was disrupted briefly. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. North Gate (HMNB Clyde) temporary traffic control - The MDP are aware of traffic control on A814 at the North Gate which is causing delays at peak times during the week. Essential works are being carried out by Scottish Water potentially lasting until December. The MDP/MOD Guard Service will continue to keep delays to a minimum. Police Community Drop In - A drop in will be taking place Wednesday 26th April 2023 where the community can pop in and chat to officers about community matters. MDP/Pol Scot/Royal Navy Police will have representatives to give advice and guidance to locals. Details in the poster provided. I will highlight more information for future drop ins and location of it ASAP. Police Scotland Youth Volunteers - 24 volunteers from the PSYV are eager to get involved and help out at future events in the local area. If you or your organisation have any ideas or seek assistance from the PSYV then, please contact PC Drew Omand at andrew.omand100@mod.gov.uk or Police Scotland YEO - mark.toner@scotland.police.uk Page 23 Agenda Item 5c
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Transport Scotland Update Transport Scotland have no major works planned on the A82 or A83 in the next quarter. We do know there was congestion on the A82 near Balloch on Good Friday and to a lesser extent on Easter Monday. We continue to consider solutions for congestion on this corridor in busy tourist periods. Page 25 Agenda Item 5d
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Argyll & Bute Quarterly update By Jen Broadhurst Bureau Manager Page 27 Agenda Item 5e
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Argyll & Bute CAB > ABCAB is a registered Charity, with offices in Lochgilphead, and Helensburgh and Outreach services available in Dunoon, Oban, Campbeltown, & Mull > Established in 2002, we celebrate our 21st Birthday this year > 12 staff > 16 volunteers Page 28
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Twin Aims of the CAB All CAB’s have a twin aim: > To ensure individuals do not suffer through ignorance of their rights and responsibilities or of the services available; or through an inability to express their needs. > To exercise a responsible influence on the development of social policies and services both locally and nationally. Page 29
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Social Policy Work Last Year’s Private Rental Sector Research https://www.cas.org.uk/system/files/publications/argyll_a nd_bute_citizens_advice_bureau_research_into_the_privat e_rental_sector_executive_summary.pdf This year’s Research: Big Energy Saving Network Debt Happens Money and Mental Health Impact of cost of living crisis on Carers Page 30
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ABCAB in 2022/2023 • Advised 1,040 clients • 677 new clients • Helped clients gain £1.1 million • And provided 3,120 separate pieces of advice. • Advised 1845 clients • 1239 new clients • Helped clients gain £879,561 • And provided 10062 pieces of advice ABCAB in 2021/2022 Benefits 1450 Consumer 42 Debt 138 Employment 97 Charitable Support 205 Health/Pass Housing 207 Immigration 40 Legal 127 Relationship 85 Tax 127 Utilities 299 Benefits 1701 Consumer 23 Debt 146 Employment 100 Charitable Support 102 Health/PASS 420 Housing 157 Immigration 154 Legal 101 Relationship 69 Tax 138 Utilities 150 Page 31
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Quality is taken seriously We have a 3-yearly audit by Citizens Advice Scotland, and our latest one in 2021 saw us pass with no recommendations. We undertake quarterly assessment of our advice internally and this is in turn verified by CAS learning and standards team. This is in addition to weekly peer-to peer case checking by all advisers. We deliver competency based training on a monthly basis to all staff and volunteers in the Bureau. Page 32
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Volunteers are the life- blood of every CAB Generalist Adviser Training can take 6 months to complete We currently have 16 volunteer advisers and have reopened our recruitment period for our Spring intake Training Starts May 2023 Page 33
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Housing Debt/Money Advice • For those at risk of Repossession, eviction or debt related issues • Lay representation for some civil court action • Registered with the Financial Conduct Authority • Money Talk Plus Page 34
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Patient Advice and Support Service The Patient Advice and Support Service (PASS) is an independent service which provides free, accessible and confidential information, advice and support to patients, their carers and families about NHS Healthcare. The project offers the following support and assistance: • Support you if you are going to a meeting • Help you write letters and make phone calls • Help you access your medical and clinical records • Help you find health services and social care • Help you access the treatments, care and support you need Page 35
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Armed Services Advice Project We provide free, confidential, impartial information, advice and support to: • members of the armed forces, & merchant navy • their dependents • those who are currently serving • those who have left the armed forces whether they left yesterday or 20 years ago The service covers the whole of Argyll & Bute and advice ranges from benefits through housing and debt to relationship advice. Page 36
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Pensionwise Pension Wise is a free and impartial service to help people make informed decisions about how to access their pension savings and plan financial matters in retirement by providing people with guidance about their options. A Pension Wise appointment may help you if you: • Are approaching retirement or close to or over 50 • Have a defined contribution pension pot(s) Page 37
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Energy Best Deal Page 38
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We are looking for your views! As part of our processes we really need to know what our communities think of the work we do. https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ABCABCommunity PartnersSurvey/ We have shared this survey previously, but have had no responses from partners around the forum. Please help Argyll & Bute CAB to continue to help across the region by completing the linked survey Page 39
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Argyll and Bute Council’s Community Development Team Update The Community Development Team are undertaking assessments for Argyll and Bute Council’s 2022/2023 Supporting Communities Fund, which closed for applications on 30th March. Eligible organisations could apply for up to £2,500 under the categories of: - Fairer Communities – tackling poverty by sharing opportunities - Resilient Communities – capacity building, as well as repairing and rebuilding from the pandemic - Greener, Cleaner Communities – environmental action to support addressing climate change - Creative Communities - creativity for health and wellbeing. Assessments are made using a robust scoring criteria that is available to all at the time of application. Recommendations will be made to Elected Members at Area Committees in June for decision on which organisations receive funding. Page 41 Agenda Item 5f
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Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Partner Update – Helensburgh & Lomond Area Community Planning Group 9th May 2023 Local Strategic Partnerships At the March 2023 Community Planning Partnership (CPP), A&B TSI CEO presented a third paper on moving the local Community Wealth Building (CWB) agenda further forward. The paper noted proposals for the governance of CWB locally and the progress on the research that the TSI is commissioning – the tender process for this work closes on 28th April and two bids have already been received. At the same meeting the CEO presented a paper on volunteering, including the findings of the TSI’s survey, and it was agreed that the TSI would lead on the production of a volunteering strategy. On 18th and 19th April 2023 at the TSI office several partners attended the TSI funded training on co-production methodologies which was organised by TSI board member Mahailia Scott. TSI has commissioned research from the Social Value Lab into the health of social enterprises in Argyll and Bute which has not been done since 2017. This has been commissioned jointly with the Council and Inspiralba. The census data aids the delivery of the duty on TSI to support the social enterprise sector and ties in nicely with the research on Community Wealth Building. The TSI national network has continued to work on a response to the cost-of-living crisis. A&B TSI CEO is on a working group with the SCVO to embark on a joint campaign to highlight the importance of the third sector. In addition, A&B TSI is organising a Chief Officers strategy event in late June to improve the speed of the TSI Network’s responses to public policy issues and to discuss the idea of a national TSI manifesto. Future Funds The Scottish Government has confirmed funding for year 3 of the Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund. Funds for distribution in Argyll and Bute are likely to be the same as for year two i.e.£282,303.16. The full ministerial announcement can be seen here £15 million mental health funding - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) Future Events Networking breakfasts have already taken place in Helensburgh, Dunoon and most recently Lochgilphead. Oban’s breakfast will be held on 3rd June 2023 to support Charities Day. We are seeing approximately 14-16 groups attending which is great for local events. Don’t Forget … The A&B TSI database contains over 1400 services across the region and has powered the Argyll and Bute Community Directory launched on 6th September 2022 Page 43 Agenda Item 5g
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(https://abcd.scot/). The directory provides a referral route for third sector services (and some statutory services) and it provides a means to analyse the strengths and gaps in local provision as well as map this against data such as that on poverty, health inequality and demographics. Volunteer of the Year is at Brander Lodge on Friday 2nd June. Nominations have closed but there is still time to book your place to come along for an uplifting afternoon that celebrates volunteering in Argyll and Bute https://voyargyllbute.co.uk/ Argyll and Bute Positive Destinations is funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Funds and enables support for anyone over the age of 15 with barriers to further education or employment by offering a 6-month volunteering placement in organisations across Argyll and Bute, with mentors to support personal development. To register go to Register (argylltsi- funding.org.uk) VolunteerArgyllandBute.org is a new and improved digital platform for volunteering, where people can search for the latest opportunities and register with the ones that suit them most. Groups and individuals can create their own online accounts to: Register their interest in opportunities that match their interests. Communicate directly with organisations offering opportunities. Log any hours spent volunteering. Provide feedback on the quality of the volunteering experience. Receive regular updates on new opportunities when they go live. Groups can advertise multiple volunteering opportunities on the portal. Page 44
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This is a busy period for students as we are fast approaching the end of the academic year and exams are underway. Senior Management and curriculum staff are currently planning our course offering for the next academic year which begins at the end of August. All staff have now returned to working from their local learning centre and we expect all students to return to the centres from August. This will enable both support and academic staff to provide individualised, pastoral care and support to students throughout their studies and provide them with a better learning experience and preparation for joining the workforce. We continue to provide free snacks and hot drinks to students in the centre to help with the cost of living and provide them with information relating to relevant financial or energy saving advice. We will be holding an open day w/c 5th June (date tbc) inviting visitors to the centre to discuss course options and funding for next year. We will also have a stall at the Helensburgh Highland Games on Saturday 3rd June. Page 45 Agenda Item 5h
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Community Learning Services LiveArgyll Update Youth Work Helensburgh In addition to the continued ongoing Youth work and Adult Learning activities below is a brief update of some further information. Scottish Youth Parliament Elections – The election will take place in November of this year. Any young person over 14 can stand as a candidate for Argyll & Bute for a 2 year term. Registration for any young person interested opens on 15 May. Youth Services staff will be promoting the upcoming election in schools from this week to generate interest. I will be coordinating the election process with Scottish Youth Parliament and Young Scot and attending training sessions and planning meetings from May until the end of October. New Youth Work Services Team Leader Our New Youth Work Team Leader has now started and Wendy’s contact details are: Wendy Reid email: Wendy.Reid@liveargyll.co.uk telephone number 01631572941 Adult Learning Family Reading Group at the Helensburgh Community Hub? The group runs on a Wednesday afternoon between 3.30 and 4.30. It is open to parents/carers of pre-school children, with their children. It is a friendly, informal group where we read stories and help to encourage parent/carers to read with their children, explaining the benefits and positive aspects of doing so. Led by Caroline Whitson with a team of volunteers are being trained to run sessions also. It is a great environment for adults who experience any sort of literacy challenges to come along and get the help and support they may need in order to allow them to read with their children. It also provides a great opportunities to meet other parents/carers in the same situation as them. It has been very successful so far with regular attendance form 8-10 parents each week. If the need is shown then we will add extra sessions. Working in partnership with the Community Hub and Gill Simpson, it also provides information on joining the Dolly Parton Imagination Library initiative, which is being co- ordinated by Gill at the Hub. Contact for this group is either Caroline or Gill. Continued to be offered is short 4-6 week basic IT classes in Helensburgh Library. Open to all and providing absolute beginner tuition on all aspects of getting started in the digital world. Currently running on a Tuesday afternoon, next session due to commence in May 23. Contact either through Caroline or the Library. Caroline’s details are Caroline Whitson email Caroline.Whitson@liveargyll.co.uk telephone 01436 658707 Page 47 Agenda Item 5i
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Jean’s Bothy Update May 2023 Jean’s Bothy is a mental health & wellbeing hub situated in a cottage on the fork of East & South King Street in Helensburgh. Open to anyone over age 16 living in Helensburgh & Lomond we have now registered 345 members since opening in September 2018. Over the last month we have continued our monthly programme of activities & groups (attached) We remain flexible to introducing new groups depending on demand of current membership. 10 members recently completed a 2 day Scottish Mental Health First Aid training course delivered by MacDonald MacMillan Training. Feedback from the course was really positive and most now want to go on and attend an ASIST course. We have a number of fundraising events planned for this year including a Midsummer Climb up Ben Lomond on Saturday 24th June. Members, family, friends and anyone else who would like to join us can by completing a sign up sheet. We will be providing transport if needed too. Working jointly with other local organisations (Visiting Friends, Helensburgh Community Hub, Fun First, The Dance Academy, H&L Carers, H&L Foodbank) we are taking part in the Big Community Bake Sale on Saturday 13th May raising awareness of what we do, and showcasing the skills of some of our wonderful bakers too. This takes place in Helensburgh Community Hub 11am – 1pm. Open to the whole community to come along and buy some cake! Our “Peace of Mind” book written and produced by our Writing for Wellbeing Group contains a collection of stories, poems, photographs and artwork. We sold out first print run of 50 copies within a couple of weeks and have almost sold out of our 2nd print run of another 50 copies. If anyone is interested in buying a copy they are £6 each. Jean’s Bothy “on location” is an idea we are currently working on with a number of our partners and also members who deliver groups within the bothy. We plan to take the bothy out to another location – Geilston Gardens – being the first venue, and replicate our programme out there for 1 day. The activities and groups on offer will be dependent on which members and partners would like to deliver there and more details about what’s on and when will be shared soon. We hope that this not only raises awareness of Jean’s Bothy and what we do, but also encourages members to visit somewhere they haven’t been before knowing that the support is there for them too. We will be celebrating Mental Health Awareness Week 15-21 May and in the run up to this week will have events on in Jean’s Bothy including Discover Digital Health by Health & Social Care Alliance Scotland and Distress Brief Intervention & Suicide Prevention Service visit from Change Mental Health. We will also be visible within the Helensburgh Co-op throughout that week highlighting the importance of looking after your wellbeing and how to support your own mental health. The Life Aquatic exhibition continues over on the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer, where 11 of our members are showing their work alongside professional artists and creatives. It’s a very unique exhibition set on the boat itself and anyone can visit, it’s open Saturdays and Sundays 10am – 4pm until October. Our Development Manager, Katrina Sayer has been shortlisted in the Argyll & Bute HSCP Excellence Awards in the Partner Category. Katrina along with 2 members from Jean’s Bothy will be attending the ceremony on Friday 12th May in Inveraray. Page 49 Agenda Item 5j
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Anyone over age 16, living in Helensburgh & Lomond can join Jean’s Bothy as a member. Contact us for a membership form. Please either email jeansbothy@enable.org.uk or text/whatsapp 07542226390 Sewing Workshop 11am – 1pm Coffee & Chat 11am – 12.30pm Fly-Tying 11am – 12.30pm Gardening 10am – 12noon Coffee & Cake 11am – 1pm Woodwork 11am – 3pm Moving On Duchess Woods 10am – 2.30pm Knitting & Crochet 10.30am -12noon Lunch 12.30pm – 1.30pm Healthy Minds 12.30pm – 2pm Dave’s Woodcraft Workshops (2nd/16th/30th) 1.30pm – 3.30pm Lunch 12noon Walks with Tommy Leaving 11am Chair Yoga with Roni 11.30am – 12.30pm Food for Thought 12noon – 1pm Wellbeing through Writing 1pm – 2.30pm Photography & Wellbeing 12noon – 1pm (6th & 20th) Crafty Workshops with Lorna 1.30pm – 3.30pm Cardio with the Journey 2pm & 3pm Chill & Chat online 1pm – 2pm Wellbeing at The Journey (yoga or fitness) 2-3pm Sewing Workshop 12.30pm – 2.30pm Cardio with the Journey 2pm & 3pm Card Making 1.30pm – 3.30pm (4th/18th) Wellbeing at The Journey (Yoga or Fitness Choice) 2-3pm Walking for Wellbeing 1.30pm – 3.30pm Art 1.30pm – 2.30pm Or 2.30pm – 3.30pm Photowalks 12noon (13th & 27th) This month’s book is “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin Telephone: 01436 679218 Email: jeansbothy@enable.org.uk Page 51
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REHIS Food Hygiene Training Monday 1st May 10am – 4.30pm ENABLE office Ben Lomond Climb Info Chat Thursday 4th May 2pm Members Meeting Monday 8th May 4pm online Digital Health with Alliance Scotland Tuesday 9th May 11am – 2pm Drop In Mindfulness Session 5 Wednesday 10th May 12noon – 3pm Newsletter Planning Meeting Thursday 11th May 3pm online CBT Sessions by appointment Badminton & Table Tennis Thursdays 7pm – 8pm Colgrain Primary School Film at the Tower Film & Date TBC Digital Drop In Tuesday (9th & 23rd) 11am – 1pm A&B HSCP Excellence Awards Friday 12th May Inveraray Inn Change Mental Health DBI & Suicide Intervention Service Thursday 11th May 12noon – 1.30pm Big Community Bake Sale Saturday 13th May 11am – 1pm Helensburgh Community Hub Fundraising & Events Team Tuesday 16th May 2pm NHS Screening Programme Awareness Training Thursday 18th May 11.30am – 1pm Mindfulness Practice Session Wednesday 24th May 12noon – 3pm The Bothy is open 11am – 12.30 every Tuesday & Thursday for any members wishing to pick up food donations helping to reduce food waste locally Co-op Stand through Mental Health Awareness Week 15 – 21 May Bothy Book Club Tuesday 30th May 7pm Our staff are available to chat through any concerns or worries you have too. Rosie, Nicole, Chris, Alison & Norah can offer phone call support if needed. However if you need to contact us please call 01436 679218; text 07542226390 or email jeansbothy@enable.org.uk SUPPORT LINES Samaritans 116 123 Breathing Space 0800 838587 Trauma Counselling Line 08088 020406 No Panic 0844 967 4848 Bi-polar Scotland 0141 560 2050 SHOUT text service TEXT ‘85258’ Page 52
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PFH Report H&L CPP May 2023 PFH continue to work with our Business Champions and Community Allies. HCC and PFH 10 am last Saturday in the month beach cleans resumed after a January break. We thank A & B for providing a 20 yard skip in February and March. PFH supplemented this with a10 yard skip. Around 30 people and David Howie with his tractor clearer the 10 yard strip close to the pier and hand picked plastics, wipes and other rubbish from the remaining 90 m to the Hendry Bell Monument. Nearly 50 people turned out for the PFH clean up of the grass and prom at the East Bay 661 kgs of debris was removed. At least 60 bags of rubbish had already been removed from here post the December clean up. These early cleans are really important as it stops the high tides on windless day taking all of the plastics , wipes and other rubbish to recirculate around the river and out to sea. We attended KSB Upstream Battle anchor group meeting .to here what was happening up stream and on the Forth and Tay. We also attended the Coastal Communities and Scottish Island Federation Marine Litter Conference in Mallaig in March. Here we lead a breakout session on Barriers to Disposal for Marine Litter. Later in march the SAS Ocean Activists Conference in Swansea gave incite and perspective on what is happening around Britain. An outcome was that PFH lead on the formation of a Scottish group. The Conference delegates along with other PF Communities we are already working with are now jointly looking at matters of litter. The first step is looking into better ways of disposal and information to take a ways on the lack of facilities for products labelled as bio-degradable as there are currently no suitable schemes for disposable in Scotland. As PFH we are continuing to look at and lobby for a way to sustainably dispose of the huge quantities of plastic contaminated debris washed up in winter storms and encourage reducing use and discouraging littering. Page 53 Agenda Item 5k
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1 Argyll & Bute Community Planning Partnership Area Meetings Date: April 2023 Partner update – Public Health The paper provides an update on ongoing wellbeing and prevention activity overseen and delivered by the HSCP Public Health Team in Argyll and Bute. Director of Public Health Report 2022 – Prevention Prevention is better than cure and this valuable report provides an evidence based rationale for moving upstream to a preventative approach where instead of rescuing people from river downstream, we prevent them falling into the river in the first place. Prevention is about looking upstream and taking the actions that are needed to stop people from becoming ill, or reducing the severity of their illness. The report provides examples of where preventative action can and does improve health and prevent the need for more intensive and costly treatment. The report highlights the importance of prevention as a vital and integral part of healthcare and of wider community activities and makes a compelling case for investing in systemic preventive action. The report provides a number of evidence based examples of projects which deliver prevention and early intervention and result in improved health outcomes and is cost effective. Key Messages Investment in preventative measures which promote, protect and improve health and wellbeing is essential to ensure the future sustainability of the health and care system. There are many examples of preventative actions that have already helped achieve major improvements in health, for example, improved social conditions, vaccination against communicable diseases and national screening programmes. The effects of prevention work have contributed to a decline in cancer and cardiovascular disease mortality rates. Priority should continue to be given to preventing cardiovascular and smoking related conditions and there must be continued efforts to improve early diagnosis for effective treatment. There are thousands of avoidable deaths and preventable health conditions every year in NHS Highland. Estimates of health loss and avoidable mortality should be used to help inform priorities for health and care service planning and redesign, and for disease prevention. Page 55 Agenda Item 6
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2 Actions to address modifiable risk factors, such as high blood pressure, smoking, alcohol and drug use, healthy weight and physical activity, presents a sizeable opportunity to improve health, add years to life and to reduce existing inequalities in these measures. A life course approach to prevention should be used to identify potential areas of action relating to both the individual and the community. The characteristics of effective prevention work should be considered when planning programmes of work and training to ensure existing health inequalities are not reinforced. The ‘best buys’ in prevention should meet one or more of these objectives: cost-effective; likely to reduce health inequalities; likely to reduce avoidable health and social care problems. The NHS has an important role to play in prevention as an employer, researcher, collaborative partner and commissioner of services. Ensuring prevention is seen as part of everyone’s role, and that time and resources are allocated to it may be key to supporting the fundamental shift towards prevention that is required for the future sustainability of health and care systems. There are many examples and evidence of preventative interventions that provide a return on investment and have the potential to deliver savings to the NHS in the short and longer term. These should be used to inform priorities for action. The Annual Report of the Director of Public Health 2022 Prevention – Moving Upstream: https://indd.adobe.com/view/45cbb2d9-8f8d-44dd-a040-efe28296701c Living Well Networks Following a pilot a new model of delivery has been implemented for our Living Well Networks. There are Co-ordinators in place in each locality and a new administrator role to deliver the valuable engagement and capacity building work of the networks. The networks contribute to improving the health of the people in Argyll and Bute by working in partnership with a range of stakeholders and community members and joining structures such as the Locality Planning Groups. The funding for the networks has been secured for two years. Further information and contact details for the networks can be found here: https://www.ablivingwell.org/living-well-networks Adult Health and Wellbeing Profiles Public health partnership profile reports have been published for the four localities in Argyll and Bute local authority. These partnership areas are the focus of action to improve the health of the people and communities in the area covered by NHS Highland Health Board. The profile reports present information across a range of Page 56
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3 health and wellbeing topics. They are designed to support staff and partners to make decisions and plans to improve population health and reduce inequalities. They bring together in one valuable resource, data on a wide range of topics and are themed into two profiles with further profiles for child health and wellbeing, and health inequalities being released in the coming months: Demography and deprivation Adult health and wellbeing We encourage partners to take a look at this valuable resource which can be found at: Public health profiles | NHS Highland (scot.nhs.uk) Children and Young People The Health Improvement Team and the Education Department have been working closely with schools, statutory and third sector partners to deliver the Smoke Free Programme and S3 Health Drama Programme in March 2023. The Smoke Free Programme consists of five interactive lessons plans covering the effects of tobacco on health, the slave trade, black lives matters, the environment and financial cost. Aimed at P6/P7 pupils and offered to all primary schools, the programme is completed with a drama tour which has proven to be a impactful but also fun and memorable element to the programme which allows the pupils to sing the songs they have learnt and demonstrate their knowledge. The S3 Health Programme “You Are Not Alone” is an impactful and meaningful part of the curriculum. Three lesson plans are delivered in PSE classes to compliment the messages in the drama production which contains three vignettes based on real life stories covering smoking, vaping, mental health, bullying, sending nude photos and alcohol. Each pupil receives a localised booklet for them to complete, takes part in discussions, and Q&As with service providers. The overall message of this programme is to access help, the evaluation of this year’s programme is still being collated but in previous years the programme has been successful in raising awareness of the help available for young people and results in young people accessing much needed support. With thanks to Raenbow Productions who delivered 16 productions during March the tour reached the length and breadth of Argyll and Bute including the Island of Islay and Island of Bute, with IT support offered to Tiree and Mull. The success of this programme is also due to the partnership working within school, statutory and third partners. Cool2Talk Page 57
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4 We are pleased to share that this valuable service has secured funding from Children and Families, the Alcohol and Drugs Partnership and Public Health for a further year. Cool2Talk is a website aimed at young people 12-24 years old where they can post a question and receive a bespoke response within 24 hours. The answers are evidence based and provide young people with accurate and safe health information and link to local and national services for support. There are also information resources on the site. The site can be accessed at: https://cool2talk.org REPORT AUTHOR AND CONTACT Author Names: Sam Campbell, (Interim Health Improvement Principal); Laura Stephenson and Jenny Dryden (Health Improvement Leads) Email: nhsh.abhealthimprovement@nhs.scot Page 58
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1 Luss & Arden Local Place Plan Luss & Arden Community Council Local Place Plan March 2023 hello OUR PLACEOUR FUTURE OUR PLACEOUR FUTURE Page 59 Agenda Item 8
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3 Introduction Community issues and aspirations Vision for 2030 Priority actions Priority 1: Life in the community Priority 2: Population & homes Priority 3: Visitor management Priority 4: Getting about Priority 5: Jobs & business The area as a whole Next steps What next? Roles & responsibilities Resources Policy & management changes Appendix (digital copy only) Community survey results 1 2 3 4 5 4 8 34 38 62 68 We have prepared an online summary of this Local Plan Plan. To view this summary, visit the URL below, or scan the QR code. → www.bit.ly/luss-arden-LPP ↘ Page 60
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5 Introduction 1 This Local Place Plan contains our local community’s vision for the Luss and Arden Community Council area (see above map), and priority actions to turn our vision into reality. The plan is rooted in our local community’s own aspirations, gathered through comprehensive engagement activities during 2022 and early 2023. 4 InverbegInverbeg Glen DouglasGlen Douglas Glen LussGlen Luss AldochlayAldochlay BandryBandry Loch LomondLoch Lomond BallochBalloch Duck BayDuck Bay HelensburghHelensburgh ArdenArden MuirlandsMuirlands Luss & Arden Community Luss & Arden Community Council BoundaryCouncil Boundary LussLuss Page 61
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7 The plan also reflects national planning policy aims of creating sustainable, liveable and productive places as expressed in National Planning Framework 4, as well as taking account of: • Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Local Development Plan adopted in 2016 • West Loch Lomondside Rural Development Framework: Supplementary Guidance, 2017 • Helensburgh and West Lomond Locality Plan 2017-18 • Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Plan 2018-2023 • West Loch Lomond Strategic Tourism Infrastructure Development Framework 2022 The content of these documents has been taken into account in developing the vision, priorities, aims and actions contained in sections 3 and 4 of this Local Place Plan, alongside the community issues and aspirations summarised in section 2. 6 Community aspirations Local Place Plan Delivering outcomes Private sector investments National Park Local Development Plan Helensburgh and Lomond Locality Plan National Planning Framework 4 Public sector services & initiatives Community activities The purposes of this Local Place Plan are: • To provide an up-to-date statement of current issues we face and our aspirations for the future, to help public bodies, landowners, businesses and funders consider how they can best support positive change in the area (see section 2). • To express the community’s vision, and priorities, aims and actions to deliver that vision collaboratively with other partners (see sections 3 and 4). • To inform the ongoing review of the Local Development Plan being led by the National Park (see summary at end of section 5). • To inform public service delivery and investment by the National Park Authority, Argyll and Bute Council, Transport Scotland and other Community Planning Partners (see sections 4 and 5). • To guide investment and action by local landowners, businesses and community organisations (see sections 4 and 5). The plan is envisaged as covering a 5-10 year period until approximately 2030. Delivery of the plan must be collaborative, with public bodies, private sector and local community working together for common purpose. Everybody needs to be involved if the plan is to become a reality. Section 5 contains more information about this. Preparation of this Local Place Plan has been facilitated by Luss and Arden Community Council on behalf of the local community. We are grateful to Luss Estates Company and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park for their financial support in preparing this Plan, to the many local people and organisations who have contributed to the plan’s preparation, and to Page\Park Architects and Nick Wright Planning for their professional support. Page 62
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9 Community issues & aspirations 2 The first step in public consultation was the distribution of a survey in summer 2022. The content and appearance of the survey was guided by an independent steering group, made up of Community Council and Development Trust members, young parents, older people, teenagers, and business owners – among others. The result was a paper survey that was delivered to every house in the community, with extra copies in public places, and post-boxes to return them in multiple locations. This was accompanied by an online version, which was distributed by QR codes on buses, in shops, on social media, and in the local newspapers. 8 (above) examples of the public consultation materials prepared and distributed in summer 2022. Page 63
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1110 In total, 120 people shared their aspirations for Luss & Arden. Of those 120, 75 live in the local community. That means 28% of the local population answered the survey, which is high for a survey of this nature. The breakdown of responses by age demographic and location within the community council area can be explored in the following diagrams. Each dot represents one survey respondent. Question 1 What age are you? Question 2 Which of these describes you? Question 3 Where do you live/work? Page 64
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1312 We asked ‘what do you like about where you live?’, for example, what’s good about living here, or what should be protected for the future? These were the key themes that emerged from the answers: Rural Peace & Quiet Including: quiet, safe, secure, peaceful, relaxing Mentions: 14 Job Opportunities Including: for growth, improvement, jobs etc Mentions: 3 Outdoor Activities Including: walking, swimming, boating, golf, fishing, cycling Mentions: 21 Community Facilities Including: School, village hall, park, playpark, restaurants Mentions: 4 Community Spirit Including: close-knit, community, people, family, neighbours, friends - atmosphere, activities Mentions: 16 History & Heritage Including: beautiful village, heritage, uniqueness, history Mentions: 9 Scenery & Nature Including: natural beauty, wide open spaces, mountains, loch, woodlands, beach, fresh air Mentions: 61 Rural yet Accessible Including: to work, to Glasgow, to Central Belt Mentions: 15 “Who wouldn’t want to stay here? Easily accessible and close to most amenities, but having a car is indeed an advantage, especially in ‘old age’!” “Spectacular scenery with easy access to hill-walking and water- based activities, yet still close to local towns and Glasgow." "It is nice to live in the countryside, with nature on our doorstep." "The peace and quiet of countryside with little disturbance from visitors." Page 65
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1514 We asked ‘what do you NOT like about where you live?’, for example, what makes it difficult to live or stay here? These were the key areas of concern: Luss/Aldochlay parking & traffic Including: indiscriminate parking, ignorance of one-way system, speeding traffic, lack of enforcement, price of parking permits Mentions: 25 New development Including: new houses, car parks, roads, removal of trees Mentions: 4 A82 congestion, safety & noise Including: parking and movement in the village in the tourist season, ignoring one way system, lack of enforcement, traffic congestion and speed on A82, frequency of accidents, A82 noise pollution (esp motorbikes), speeds at Arden roundabout Mentions: 35 Community council Including: poor communications, not representative Mentions: 2 Lack of Things for Young People Including: main requests: bigger park and swings, more families, more shops Mentions: 5 Poor public transport Including: poor schedule especially to Helensburgh, small bus, poor access to bus stops, accessibility Mentions: 29 Excessive tourism Including: over commercialisation (shops, businesses, ice cream vans), too busy, too many tourists, poor visitor management, residents don't seem to be considered, can't enjoy own surroundings, don't use local facilities any more Mentions: 33 Holiday lets/lack of affordable homes Including: too few permanent residents, school is at risk, lack of housing for younger families Mentions: 14 Restrictions on development Including: TPOs, Listed Building restrictions, excessive restrictions on sustainable projects Mentions: 3 Lack of community activities Including: events, activities Mentions: 4 Antisocial behaviour Including: jetskis (noise pollution), noisy visitors, inconsiderate visitors, littering, dirty camping, lack of law enforcement Mentions: 56 Lack of community facilities Including: hospital, social care, fibre broadband, maintenance of cyclepaths/footpaths, access to loch for residents' boats Mentions: 4 “Anti social behaviour. Inconsiderate visitors, and the inability to enjoy our own surroundings unless it is ‘out of season’.” "Poor public transport especially to Helensburgh! So bad for us young people to get to places and return home." "Overwhelming visitors, dangerous driving, and increasing businesses encroaching every day life of residents" Page 66
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1716 To conclude, we asked ‘what do you want to happen in your community’s future?’ This is what you told us: Address anti-social behaviour Including: tackle the minority - more proactive management and enforcement on land and water (especially jetskis), noise pollution, evenings too Mentions: 31 Protect heritage & natural beauty Including: protect nature, avoid unsightly development, spread new development around and/or restrict it in Luss, cap on new businesses, keep green spaces, rewild Glen Fruin Mentions: 16 Enforcement against dirty camping Including: enforcement Mentions: 3 More climate friendly Including: allow solar panels on roofs, less bureaucratic planning, grow more food locally, better walking and cycling routes, stop cutting wildflowers on verges Mentions: 11 Better connections Including: more buses to Helensburgh, more bus stops, better walking/cycling routes, better broadband Mentions: 31 Reduce litter Including: enforcement, management, education Mentions: 14 Road improvements Including: A82 road safety and congestion, Arden roundabout, Glen Douglas road improvements (signage, passing places) Mentions: 13 Affordable homes Including: more affordable homes for families and workers, fewer holiday homes Mentions: 27 Better communication/collaboration with authorities Including: open engagement, working together on solutions, more open Community Council, joined up planning for whole area down to the Vale Mentions: 6 Focus on the community Including: stop over commercialisation; more things for locals; activities for all ages (e.g. canoeing, walks) more for kids (improve playpark); support community facilities like hall, church and school; reinstate A+E at Vale hospital; moorings for locals; new community hub (indoor/outdoor activities, teen space); shop for locals; more employment opportunities; social care Mentions: 45 Better management of visitors, parking and traffic Including: parking restrictions and enforcement; responsive police, park wardens and traffic wardens; improve traffic management; reduced visitor numbers; better toilet facilities; remove ice cream vans; beach access and management; lighting; visitor information/ interpretation; more accessible facilities Mentions: 42 “Visitors are here to stay and are a vital part of local economy however the numbers must be better managed.” “Ban jet skis from the Loch” “Let the community get its village back. Lockdown was amazing, I met folks I had not seen/spoken to in years, locals started talking again.” "Open and transparent engagement with locals. Finding and agreeing solutions to tackle our challenges arising from being a ‘destination’." Page 67
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1918 At a classroom session with Luss Primary School pupils to help them think about the future of the area, popular topics of discussion were the lack of things to do, and of other families and children. The children’s responses included: “More things for locals rather than the tourists.” “I would like a bigger slide and swings” “More stuff for kids to do, better bus times to Helensburgh, more houses for locals, less holiday homes.” The most common suggestions from the children were: • Encourage more families to the area - there aren’t many kids here. • Improve the playpark - specifically, bigger slide and swings. • Pay more attention to what kids suggest - the ideas above and other suggestions like more things to do outdoors, basketball court, cinema and library. • Better transport to Helensburgh to see friends and do things. Page 68
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2120 7th December 2022 Second community drop-in session A second drop-in session for the community was held in December 2022. Using the priorities identified in the first session (and the results of the survey), the second event suggested aims and actions for the Local Place Plan, and invited the public to comment on anything missed, or anything that might be achieved by a better means. 9th November 2022 First community drop-in session Following completion of the survey, the Community Council and consultant team invited the community to Luss Village Hall to share the survey results, and agree what the priorities should be. Flyers were distributed to every home advertising the event, and sharing a link to the complete results online. Page 69
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2322 People were asked if they would like to make any comments on the suggested aims and actions for each of the five priority areas. There were 258 visits to the webpage containing the draft Plan during the consultation period, and the priorities themselves received 11 comments. This Local Place Plan has been updated from the draft iteration to reflect comments received on its content. In parallel with the community consultation, statutory Information Notices were emailed by the Community Council to local Ward Councillors, adjacent Community Councils and others on Thursday 2 February. Recipients were given until Sunday 5th March to comment (slightly longer than the statutory 28 day minimum period). One supportive response was received; no specific parts of the draft Plan were referred to. February 2023 Consultation on the draft Plan Community consultation on the draft Local Place Plan ran from the 3rd of February until the 6th March with the public being invited to comment using a dedicated website. In addition, printed copies of the full plan were placed at key locations, and a copy of a plan summary was delivered to every house in the Community Council area. Luss & Arden To read the full plan, and to let us know what you think, scan the QR code or visit: www.bit.ly/luss-arden-LPP Deadline for comments: Tuesday 28th February Please share this with friends and neighbours, and if you're having trouble accessing the plan online, please contact Nick Wright at 07900 334110 hello THANK YOU FOR THANK YOU FOR YOUR INPUT TO OUR YOUR INPUT TO OUR CONSULTATION OVER CONSULTATION OVER THE LAST YEAR. WE’RE THE LAST YEAR. WE’RE PLEASED TO NOW PLEASED TO NOW BE ABLE TO SHARE BE ABLE TO SHARE OUR OUR LOCAL PLACE LOCAL PLACE PLANPLAN, AND TO INVITE , AND TO INVITE FEEDBACK ON ITS FEEDBACK ON ITS CONTENTS.CONTENTS. Page 70
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2524 In parallel with the community survey, a separate survey was distributed to businesses in West Loch Lomond. The survey asked business owners and operators a range of questions, on subjects including: staffing, recruitment, COVID, and how their business might be better supported in the future. We have received 38 responses in total. The responses are a vital insight into the challenges faced by business operators in the area, and their prospects and aspirations for the future. Responses have been received from a variety of business types, most of whom (75.4%) are in the tourism sector (i.e. visitor attraction, accommodation, retail, and hospitality): businesssurvey Other includes: Forestry/ landscape; Trade/ construction/ building services; Consultancy; Care/ social services; Renewable energy; Village Hall; Fuel Station; Artist; Diversified rural estate; Private Club; and Carpark Page 71
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2726 ‘Out-of-season’, the businesses who responded employ a total of 564 people. This number increases to 988 ‘in-season’. Only 26% of staff working in these businesses live within the villages of Luss, Arden, Arrochar, Tarbet and Ardlui. Around half of staff live within 10 miles of their place of work. We asked businesses ‘Have you experienced issues in staff recruitment and availability recently?’ Staffing & Recruitment 61.3% of businesses answered yes, and 38.7% answered no. 40% of businesses said that they can’t find staff locally which is linked to the lack of available local workforce. 30% of business respondents said that the remoteness of the location and poor public transport were factors in recruiting staff. 22% of business respondents said that the lack of local, affordable housing was a factor in recruiting staff. Comments from owners and operators included: “People unwilling to travel up the lochside.” “Lack of local staff and other people to take up positions.” “They think the location is remote, no train service or regular bus service.” Page 72
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2928 Of the businesses who responded, 25% generate a turnover in excess of £1m and 75% are a range of smaller/medium sized businesses generating turnover of less than £1m. Interestingly some businesses have traded better since COVID whilst others have suffered. This may be down to some businesses being able to be flexible and trade outdoors and take advantage of increased outdoor visitors since COVID. 34% of businesses surveyed have experienced an increase in trade since COVID. 42% of businesses surveyed have experienced a decrease in trade since COVID. There is a positive and healthy outlook in terms of future business’ growth. Turnover, COVID Impact & Growth Confidence in the future Of the survey results, 65% of the businesses said they were planning to invest and develop in their business in the next 3-5 years 40% of business plan to increase staff in the next 3-5 years. Generally, most businesses felt confident about their future in this location. When asked to rate their confidence on a scale from 1 (not confident) to 5 (very confident), 67.7% ranked it 4 or 5. Nobody ranked it as a 1. Page 73
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3130 We asked businesses what the main challenges or constraints facing the business were? Challenges & Help Increased running costs and the rising costs of energy are key challenges to businesses. 90% of businesses highlighted increased running costs as a key challenge. 79% of business highlighted increased energy costs as a key challenge. And finally, we asked businesses what would help them? 53% of businesses said changes in visitor management. This is of particular relevance to the Luss area. 47% of businesses said that Business Support would help their business. Other includes: more taxis for guests; more volunteers; an increase in the number of surrounding businesses; and grant funding. 'Other' includes: planning; the quality of the surrounding village; and available opportunities close by. The size of the circles is proportional to the number of responses Page 74
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HHIIGGHH PPRROOPPOORRTTIIOONN OOFF HHOOLLIIDDAAYY LLEETTSS 25.5% of properties in Luss village core are holiday lets. This increases to 35% in the wider Community Area (excluding Arden) There are over 250 self-catered lets within Community Council boundary. HHOOUUSSEE PPRRIICCEE IINNCCRREEAASSEESS The average value of property transactions between 2019 and 2021 increased by 14% (to £309k). The increase in wider Argyll & Bute was 6% (£194k). FFEEWW HHOOMMEESS OONN TTHHEE MMAARRKKEETT Only 20 homes were sold through the open market between 2018-21. AANN AAGGEEIINNGG CCOOMMMMUUNNIITTYY The population is ageing and the number of families and children is declining. In the 2011 census - the most recently available - 34.2% of Luss’s residents were of pensionable age, which is a much higher percentage than Argyll & Bute Council (22%) and Scotland (17%). TTHHEE CCHHAALLLLEENNGGEE OOFF GGEETTTTIINNGG AARROOUUNNDD WWIITTHHOOUUTT AA CCAARR 29 survey responses (24%) said 'poor public transport' was an issue. "[It is] so bad for young people to get to places and return home." IIMMPPAACCTT OONN BBUUSSIINNEESSSSEESS AANNDD RREECCRRUUIITTMMEENNTT IISSSSUUEESS 61.3% of businesses surveyed said that they've had issues with staff recruitment and availability recently. 30% said that the remoteness of the location and poor public transport were factors. “[applicants] think the location is remote, with no train service or regular bus service.” AACCCCOOMMMMOODDAATTIINNGG WWOORRKKEERRSS LLOOCCAALLLLYY AANNDD AAFFFFOORRDDAABBLLYY IISS AANN IISSSSUUEE This is exacerbated by inflation oustripping pay particularly in the lower-paid and tourism sector. 22% of business respondents said that the lack of local, affordable housing was a factor in recruitment. The community mentioned housing 14 times in total, with more than 50% (8) of mentions coming from respondents who work in the area. PPOOOORR DDIIVVEERRSSIITTYY IINN JJOOBB OOPPTTIIOONNSS 75% of business survey respondents are in the tourism sector (i.e. visitor attraction, accommodation, retail, and hospitality). HHAARRDDEERR TTOO MMAAIINNTTAAIINN CCOOMMMMUUNNIITTYY FFAACCIILLIITTIIEESS 45 survey respondents (37.5%) want more focus on the community and facilities. IIMMPPAACCTT OONN TTHHEE OOFFFFEERR FFOORR YYOOUUNNGG PPEEOOPPLLEE SSCCHHOOOOLL AATT RRIISSKK The present school roll of 12 equates to an occupancy rate of 24%, down from 40% a decade ago. PPAARRKKIINNGG IISSSSUUEESS && RROOAADD SSAAFFEETTYY CCOONNCCEERRNNSS were mentioned 35 times in the survey, including parking and movement in the village in the tourist season, lack of enforcement, and congestion, noise, and speed on the A82. “Ever-increasing traffic jams and inconsiderate parking cause huge problems e.g. for emergency services, delays for business deliveries, bus services and key workers." AA8822 TTRRAAFFFFIICC LLEEVVEELLSS 5.1 million cars travelled on the A82 past Luss in 2019 (pre-covid). This is 53% more than travelled on the A9 between Inverness and Aviemore AANNTTII--SSOOCCIIAALL BBEEHHAAVVIIOOUURR 52% of respondents who live locally mentioned 'anti-social behaviour', including noisy/ inconsiderate visitors, littering, dirty camping, and lack of policing- especially in Luss itself. Jetskis were mentioned negatively 23 times. IINNCCOONNVVEENNIIEENNCCEE TTOO RREESSIIDDEENNTTSS Excessive tourism was a concern for 38% of survey respondents in Luss. “[we are unable] to enjoy our own surroundings unless it is ‘out of season’." IISS LLUUSSSS BBEECCOOMMIINNGG AA LLEESSSS DDEESSIIRRAABBLLEE PPLLAACCEE TTOO LLIIVVEE?? IISS LLUUSSSS BBEECCOOMMIINNGG AA LLEESSSS DDEESSIIRRAABBLLEE PPLLAACCEE TTOO LLIIVVEE?? BBAALLAANNCCIINNGG TTHHEE NNEEEEDDSS OOFF RREESSIIDDEENNTTSS AANNDD VVIISSIITTOORRSS “Luss is now a resort not a village for residents. Lockdown reminded me of what it was like in the village when I was a kid – it was fantastic. It should be remembered that Luss welcomes visitors when it is properly managed and has the infrastructure to cope. There are very few places in Scotland where the areas of car parks are about 3 times bigger than the village itself.” contributing to ... contributing to ... contributing to ... VVIISSIITTOORR NNUUMMBBEERRSS IINN LLUUSSSS Visitor numbers in Luss have been calculated to be at least 850k per annum This would place Luss as the no.8 most visited attraction in Scotland, paid or free. This figure is based on numbers of visitors to Luss using the the following sources: Estate car park; local authority car parks; on-street parking; coach tours; local bus services; waterbuses; and local hotels and campsites. IINNSSUUFFFFIICCIIEENNTT VVIISSIITTOORR MMAANNAAGGEEMMEENNTT MMEEAASSUURREESS AANNDD PPOOLLIICCIINNGG 42 survey respondents (35%) said better management of visitors, parking and traffic is needed. contributing to ... contributing to ... contributing to ... contributing to ... contributing to ... what's the what's the story in Luss & story in Luss & Arden today?Arden today? We've combined what you told us in the survey with our economic research, and what local businesses told us, to draw the bigger picture of the issues within the community, and how they interact ... 3332 Page 75
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35 A vision for 2030 3 The most significant challenge facing the local community is how to cope with a massive number of visitors each year whilst also offering good quality of life and opportunities for local residents. Tackling that challenge and the vicious cycles described earlier, and creating a more sustainable, balanced and thriving community into the future, requires positive interventions designed to: The following spread illustrates how the aims and actions of the Local Place Plan might tackle some of the issues identified by the community, and start to break the cycle currently happening. The aims and actions on the yellow notes are expanded upon in the next section (4), 'priority actions'. 1. RETAIN & ATTRACT FAMILIES 2. STRENGTHEN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY 3. MANAGE VISITOR PRESSURE 34 AIMS & ACTIONS Page 76
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HHIIGGHH PPRROOPPOORRTTIIOONN OOFF HHOOLLIIDDAAYY LLEETTSS 25.5% of properties in Luss village core are holiday lets. This increases to 35% in the wider Community Area (excluding Arden) There are over 250 self-catered lets within Community Council boundary. HHOOUUSSEE PPRRIICCEE IINNCCRREEAASSEESS The average value of property transactions between 2019 and 2021 increased by 14% (to £309k). The increase in wider Argyll & Bute was 6% (£194k). FFEEWW HHOOMMEESS OONN TTHHEE MMAARRKKEETT Only 20 homes were sold through the open market between 2018-21. AANN AAGGEEIINNGG CCOOMMMMUUNNIITTYY The population is ageing and the number of families and children is declining. In the 2011 census - the most recently available - 34.2% of Luss’s residents were of pensionable age, which is a much higher percentage than Argyll & Bute Council (22%) and Scotland (17%). TTHHEE CCHHAALLLLEENNGGEE OOFF GGEETTTTIINNGG AARROOUUNNDD WWIITTHHOOUUTT AA CCAARR 29 survey responses (24%) said 'poor public transport' was an issue. "[It is] so bad for young people to get to places and return home." IIMMPPAACCTT OONN BBUUSSIINNEESSSSEESS AANNDD RREECCRRUUIITTMMEENNTT IISSSSUUEESS 61.3% of businesses surveyed said that they've had issues with staff recruitment and availability recently. 30% said that the remoteness of the location and poor public transport were factors. “[applicants] think the location is remote, with no train service or regular bus service.” AACCCCOOMMMMOODDAATTIINNGG WWOORRKKEERRSS LLOOCCAALLLLYY AANNDD AAFFFFOORRDDAABBLLYY IISS AANN IISSSSUUEE This is exacerbated by inflation oustripping pay particularly in the lower-paid and tourism sector. 22% of business respondents said that the lack of local, affordable housing was a factor in recruitment. The community mentioned housing 14 times in total, with more than 50% (8) of mentions coming from respondents who work in the area. PPOOOORR DDIIVVEERRSSIITTYY IINN JJOOBB OOPPTTIIOONNSS 75% of business survey respondents are in the tourism sector (i.e. visitor attraction, accommodation, retail, and hospitality). HHAARRDDEERR TTOO MMAAIINNTTAAIINN CCOOMMMMUUNNIITTYY FFAACCIILLIITTIIEESS 45 survey respondents (37.5%) want more focus on the community and facilities. IIMMPPAACCTT OONN TTHHEE OOFFFFEERR FFOORR YYOOUUNNGG PPEEOOPPLLEE SSCCHHOOOOLL AATT RRIISSKK The present school roll of 12 equates to an occupancy rate of 24%, down from 40% a decade ago. PPAARRKKIINNGG IISSSSUUEESS && RROOAADD SSAAFFEETTYY CCOONNCCEERRNNSS were mentioned 35 times in the survey, including parking and movement in the village in the tourist season, lack of enforcement, and congestion, noise, and speed on the A82. “Ever-increasing traffic jams and inconsiderate parking cause huge problems e.g. for emergency services, delays for business deliveries, bus services and key workers." AA8822 TTRRAAFFFFIICC LLEEVVEELLSS 5.1 million cars travelled on the A82 past Luss in 2019 (pre-covid). This is 53% more than travelled on the A9 between Inverness and Aviemore AANNTTII--SSOOCCIIAALL BBEEHHAAVVIIOOUURR 52% of respondents who live locally mentioned 'anti-social behaviour', including noisy/ inconsiderate visitors, littering, dirty camping, and lack of policing- especially in Luss itself. Jetskis were mentioned negatively 23 times. IINNCCOONNVVEENNIIEENNCCEE TTOO RREESSIIDDEENNTTSS Excessive tourism was a concern for 38% of survey respondents in Luss. “[we are unable] to enjoy our own surroundings unless it is ‘out of season’." IISS LLUUSSSS BBEECCOOMMIINNGG AA LLEESSSS DDEESSIIRRAABBLLEE PPLLAACCEE TTOO LLIIVVEE?? IISS LLUUSSSS BBEECCOOMMIINNGG AA LLEESSSS DDEESSIIRRAABBLLEE PPLLAACCEE TTOO LLIIVVEE?? BBAALLAANNCCIINNGG TTHHEE NNEEEEDDSS OOFF RREESSIIDDEENNTTSS AANNDD VVIISSIITTOORRSS “Luss is now a resort not a village for residents. Lockdown reminded me of what it was like in the village when I was a kid – it was fantastic. It should be remembered that Luss welcomes visitors when it is properly managed and has the infrastructure to cope. There are very few places in Scotland where the areas of car parks are about 3 times bigger than the village itself.” contributing to ... contributing to ... contributing to ... VVIISSIITTOORR NNUUMMBBEERRSS IINN LLUUSSSS Visitor numbers in Luss have been calculated to be at least 850k per annum This would place Luss as the no.8 most visited attraction in Scotland, paid or free. This figure is based on numbers of visitors to Luss using the the following sources: Estate car park; local authority car parks; on-street parking; coach tours; local bus services; waterbuses; and local hotels and campsites. IINNSSUUFFFFIICCIIEENNTT VVIISSIITTOORR MMAANNAAGGEEMMEENNTT MMEEAASSUURREESS AANNDD PPOOLLIICCIINNGG 42 survey respondents (35%) said better management of visitors, parking and traffic is needed. contributing to ... contributing to ... contributing to ... contributing to ... contributing to ... MMAAKKEE MMOORREE OOFF LLOOCCAALL FFAACCIILLIITTIIEESS MMOORREE CCOOMMMMUUNNIITTYY AACCTTIIVVIITTIIEESS AANNDD EEVVEENNTTSS IIMMPPRROOVVEE PPUUBBLLIICC SSPPAACCEESS AANNDD PPAATTHHSS BBEETTTTEERR BBAALLAANNCCEE TTHHEE NNEEEEDDSS OOFF LLOOCCAALLSS AANNDD VVIISSIITTOORRSS IIMMPPRROOVVEE CCOOMMMMUUNNIICCAATTIIOONN BBEETTWWEEEENN AAUUTTHHOORRIITTIIEESS,, BBUUSSIINNEESSSSEESS AANNDD RREESSIIDDEENNTTSS SSAAFFEERR WWAALLKKIINNGG AANNDD CCYYCCLLIINNGG IINN AANNDD AARROOUUNNDD LLUUSSSS EEAASSIIEERR AACCCCEESSSS TTOO HHEELLEENNSSBBUURRGGHH AANNDD TTHHEE VVAALLEE FFOORR TTHHOOSSEE OONN LLOOWW IINNCCOOMMEESS OORR WWIITTHHOOUUTT AA CCAARR IIMMPPRROOVVEE SSAAFFEETTYY OONN TTHHEE AA8822 MMOORREE WWOORRKK AANNDD BBUUSSIINNEESSSS OOPPPPOORRTTUUNNIITTIIEESS FFOORR LLOOCCAALL PPEEOOPPLLEE MMOORREE EENNEERRGGYY EEFFFFIICCIIEENNTT HHOOMMEESS RREESSTTRRIICCTT AANNDD RREEDDUUCCEE NNUUMMBBEERR OOFF HHOOLLIIDDAAYY LLEETTSS AANNDD SSEECCOONNDD HHOOMMEESS CCAARREEFFUULLLLYY CCOONNTTRROOLL RREESSPPOONNSSIIBBLLEE BBUUSSIINNEESSSS EEXXPPAANNSSIIOONN IINN TTHHEE VVIILLLLAAGGEE UULLTTIIMMAATTEELLYY,, SSUUSSTTAAIINN TTHHEE CCOOMMMMUUNNIITTYY AANNDD SSEERRVVIICCEESS//FFAACCIILLIITTIIEESS WWEE TTHHIINNKK TTHHEERREE AARREE 33 KKEEYY PPRRIINNCCIIPPLLEESS OOFF TTHHEE LLOOCCAALL PPLLAACCEE PPLLAANN:: 11.. RREETTAAIINN && AATTTTRRAACCTT FFAAMMIILLIIEESS 22.. SSTTRREENNGGTTHHEENN TTHHEE LLOOCCAALL CCOOMMMMUUNNIITTYY 33.. MMAANNAAGGEE VVIISSIITTOORR PPRREESSSSUURREE WWHHAATT DDOO YYOOUU TTHHIINNKK?? IIFF WWEE FFOOLLLLOOWW TTHHRROOUUGGHH WWIITTHH OOUURR AAIIMMSS,, WWEE MMIIGGHHTT BBEE AABBLLEE TTOO BBRREEAAKK SSOOMMEE OOFF TTHHEESSEE CCYYCCLLEESS,, AANNDD MMAAKKEE RREEAALL CCHHAANNGGEE FFOORR OOUURR FFUUTTUURREE MMOORREE AAFFFFOORRDDAABBLLEE HHOOUUSSIINNGG FFOORR LLOOCCAALL PPEEOOPPLLEE AANNDD WWOORRKKEERRSS BBEETTTTEERR MMAANNAAGGEE EEXXCCEESSSSIIVVEE VVIISSIITTOORR NNUUMMBBEERRSS AANNDD AANNTTII--SSOOCCIIAALL BBEEHHAAVVIIOOUURR OOFF AA MMIINNOORRIITTYY how can the aims and how can the aims and actions put forward by actions put forward by the Local Place Plan the Local Place Plan break the cycle that's break the cycle that's currently happening?currently happening? 3736 Page 77
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39 Priority actions 4 This section of the plan contains five priority areas, each with aims and actions. The five priority areas directly reflect the concerns and aspirations expressed in the community survey: 1. Life in the community 2. Population and homes 3. Visitor management 4. Getting about 5. Jobs and business (note: these priority areas are not listed in order of importance) There are many overlaps between the priority areas, all of which are closely inter-related. For example: • Improving the play park in Luss will benefit visitors as well as residents, even though it is noted under Priority 1: life in the community. Similarly, improving the path network will benefit residents as well as visitors, despite being noted under Priority 3: visitor management. • The lack of affordable homes for families, young people and workers impacts on life in the community by threatening the sustainability of the school, other public services and volunteer-run groups, and makes it difficult for businesses to find workers and for local people to find jobs. • Restricting access and parking in the centre of Luss will contribute to visitor management, improve life in the community and make getting about easier for businesses and residents. The actions proposed under each priority should be seen as flexible. If opportunities present themselves for additional actions, they should be supported if they contribute to the plan’s strategic vision in section 3. To help guide implementation of the actions proposed below, each one is accompanied by notes that should be used as a ‘brief’. For example, the action to improve the play area in Luss contains notes relating to regular repairs, selective replacement of equipment, catering for all ages and abilities, and involving local children in the process. 38 Page 78
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41 For many years, the local community feels that action and investment has focussed on visitors, with too little attention on sustaining the local community. We need to redress the balance and place more focus on the needs of the local community. “Luss is now a resort not a village for residents ... It should be remembered that Luss welcomes visitors when it is properly managed and has the infrastructure to cope. There are very few places in Scotland where the areas of car parks are about 3 times bigger than the village itself.” priority one life in the community [comment from the public consultation] WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. MORE COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS. 2. RETAIN AND MAKE BETTER USE OF LOCAL FACILITIES. 3. IMPROVE PUBLIC SPACES, PLAY PARKS AND PATHS. 4. BETTER BALANCE THE NEEDS OF LOCALS AND VISITORS TO CREATE A STRONGER COMMUNITY. 5. IMPROVE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN AUTHORITIES, BUSINESSES AND RESIDENTS. 40 Page 79
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43 WHAT ACTIONS WE NEED TO TAKE ... WHO NEEDS TO BE INVOLVED, AND HOW QUICKLY CAN IT HAPPEN? WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. MORE COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS. 2. RETAIN AND MAKE BETTER USE OF LOCAL FACILITIES. 3. IMPROVE PUBLIC SPACES, PLAY PARKS AND PATHS. 4. BETTER BALANCE THE NEEDS OF LOCALS AND VISITORS TO CREATE A STRONGER COMMUNITY. 5. IMPROVE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN AUTHORITIES, BUSINESSES AND RESIDENTS. Action Key players Timeline National Park Scottish Enterprise Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council National Park Landowners Telecoms operators National Park Local businesses and community Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Skills Development Scotland Argyll College UHI National Park Local businesses Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Local community Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Sustrans Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Emergency services Argyll and Bute Council National Park Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors National Park Scottish Government National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Action Key players Timeline National Park Argyll and Bute Council Local community National Park Landowners Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council Registered Social Landlords (e.g. Link, Argyll Community Housing Association) Scottish Government Argyll and Bute Council Property owners and landlords Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council Village Hall Committee Church of Scotland Luss Estates Company National Park Local community Village Hall Committee Local community Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Luss Estates Company Local community Argyll and Bute Council Community Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Helensburgh & Lomond Area Community Planning Group Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Transport Scotland Police Scotland Local community Local community National Park Friends of Loch Lomond Businesses and landowners Argyll and Bute Council Improve communications 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Establish community fund 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Make more use of Luss Village Hall 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Luss play park and green spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Provide local childcare 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Prioritise local people and workers for local social housing 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve energy efficiency of existing homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Retain vital community facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Designate ‘area of pressure’ 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and reduce number of holiday lets and second homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Develop affordable homes for young people, families and workers in and around Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Scottish Government Improve public spaces, path network and litter management throughout area 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Re-use vacant Luss visitor centre 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Duck Bay visitor facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Manage access to Luss from A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve visitor behaviour in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better manage Luss beaches and pier 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Ban powered watercraft from Luss Bay 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create more apprenticeships and work experience for local community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve transport for workers from outwith the community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Implement traffic management proposals in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and manage new businesses to protect Luss residential core 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better control commercial activities in public spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve mobile phone signal 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create local accommodation for workers 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create pedestrian- priority zone in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Upgrade Loch Lomond walking and cycling route 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve safety and emergency access along A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Maintain and improve bus services 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict parking and vehicular access in Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Village greenVillage green Play parkPlay park Luss Church and ChurchyardLuss Church and Churchyard Luss Primary SchoolLuss Primary School Luss Village HallLuss Village Hall Green space improvements Regular repairs and upgrades Community facility Community facility Support and organise more activities Highland games areaHighland games area Public green space (years) Retain vital community facilities • Primary School – vital to keep and attract families to the area: use it or lose it! • Village Hall. • Church. • Highland Games public open space. Make more use of Luss Village Hall • Encourage more use and support of the recently refurbished hall with activities, events and clubs for all ages. • E.g. Christmas party, summer BBQ, youth club, chill night for teenagers, quiz nights, music, indoor bowling. Improve Luss play park and green spaces • Play park - regular repairs, selective replacement of equipment to increase the variety of equipment for all ages from toddlers to teenagers and create opportunities for disabled children (involving local children in the process). • Village green - more recreational facilities for different ages, such as kickabout area, basketball hoop, more seating, natural play. • Maintain Luss churchyard (Council-owned). Provide local childcare • Explore feasibility of wrap-around childcare to help parents into work and attract working families. Improve communications • Improve communications between National Park | Council | other public bodies | Community Council | residents | businesses. • E.g. make greater use of Community Council meetings and community noticeboard to share information locally. Establish community fund • To contribute to implementation of this plan. • Explore different sources of income such as visitor tax and parking levy in the National Park, renewable energy generation, contributions from businesses and developers. • Distribution of the fund should be managed by the local community, for example through the local Community Council or Development Trust. Explore potential for increased renewable energy generation in the Community Council area • To generate renewable energy locally, provide affordable energy to the local community, and generate income for the community. Favour development which provides clear community benefit • Incorporate into future planning policy and development management decisions.. 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45 Second homes and holiday lets have been eroding the housing stock for many years, to the extent that 1/3 of residential properties in the Community Council area are now holiday lets. The cost of housing has increased massively in recent years*. The consequences are that younger people, local workers and families are priced out of the market, the population is ageing, and community facilities and spirit are threatened. Action is needed to avert this vicious cycle. “More accessible housing is needed to make it a sustainable community ie. keep the school alive. Something needs to be done to reduce the number of properties being bought for holiday homes – it is killing the community.” priority two homes & population [comment from the public consultation] WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. MORE AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE, FAMILIES AND WORKERS. 2. ULTIMATELY, TO SUSTAIN THE COMMUNITY AND LOCAL SERVICES/ FACILITIES. 3. MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT HOMES. * House prices increased 14% in the Community Council area between 2019 and 2021 to an average of £309,000, compared to an increase of 6% across Argyll and Bute as a whole to an average of £194,000. 44 Page 81
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WHO NEEDS TO BE INVOLVED, AND HOW QUICKLY CAN IT HAPPEN? 47 WHAT ACTIONS WE NEED TO TAKE ... WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. MORE AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE, FAMILIES AND WORKERS. 2. ULTIMATELY, TO SUSTAIN THE COMMUNITY AND LOCAL SERVICES/FACILITIES. 3. MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT HOMES. Action Key players Timeline National Park Scottish Enterprise Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council National Park Landowners Telecoms operators National Park Local businesses and community Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Skills Development Scotland Argyll College UHI National Park Local businesses Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Local community Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Sustrans Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Emergency services Argyll and Bute Council National Park Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors National Park Scottish Government National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Action Key players Timeline National Park Argyll and Bute Council Local community National Park Landowners Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council Registered Social Landlords (e.g. Link, Argyll Community Housing Association) Scottish Government Argyll and Bute Council Property owners and landlords Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council Village Hall Committee Church of Scotland Luss Estates Company National Park Local community Village Hall Committee Local community Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Luss Estates Company Local community Argyll and Bute Council Community Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Helensburgh & Lomond Area Community Planning Group Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Transport Scotland Police Scotland Local community Local community National Park Friends of Loch Lomond Businesses and landowners Argyll and Bute Council Improve communications 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Establish community fund 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Make more use of Luss Village Hall 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Luss play park and green spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Provide local childcare 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Prioritise local people and workers for local social housing 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve energy efficiency of existing homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Retain vital community facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Designate ‘area of pressure’ 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and reduce number of holiday lets and second homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Develop affordable homes for young people, families and workers in and around Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Scottish Government Improve public spaces, path network and litter management throughout area 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Re-use vacant Luss visitor centre 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Duck Bay visitor facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Manage access to Luss from A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve visitor behaviour in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better manage Luss beaches and pier 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Ban powered watercraft from Luss Bay 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create more apprenticeships and work experience for local community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve transport for workers from outwith the community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Implement traffic management proposals in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and manage new businesses to protect Luss residential core 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better control commercial activities in public spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve mobile phone signal 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create local accommodation for workers 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create pedestrian- priority zone in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Upgrade Loch Lomond walking and cycling route 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve safety and emergency access along A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Maintain and improve bus services 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict parking and vehicular access in Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Future housingFuture housing Site H1 in adopted Local Development Plan Future housingFuture housing Site MU1 in adopted Local Development Plan Luss Conservation AreaLuss Conservation Area (years) Restrict and reduce number of holiday lets and second homes • Create a Short-Term Let Control Area, where planning permission will normally be required before an existing dwelling can be used as a short-term let (as approved across Edinburgh and proposed in Badenoch and Strathspey in 2022). • Resist planning permission for changes of use from residential to short-term lets in line with Policy 30(e) of National Planning Framework 4. • Support planning consent for changes of use from short-term lets to residential. • Prevent new homes being used for holiday lets and second homes, e.g. through use of primary residence restrictions on planning consents and Rural Housing Burdens. • Request local authority to purchase homes for sale to prevent them becoming second homes or short term lets, as piloted by Highland Council. • Support legislative and taxation changes to reduce attractiveness of second homes and conversion of existing residential properties to holiday lets. • Adopt a maximum percentage target of second homes and holiday lets of the total local housing stock to work towards, for example 10%. Develop affordable homes for young people, families and workers in and around Luss • Focus on low-cost ownership or rental and staff accommodation for young people, families and workers. • Prioritise new housing and re-use of existing vacant and derelict property as affordable accommodation for young people, families, local people and workers (1-3 bedrooms). • New homes should retain ‘affordable housing’ status in perpetuity, as required by current planning policy. • Build on locations in or on the edge of Luss in line with 20 Minute Neighbourhood principle (Policy 15 in National Planning Framework 4), focussing initially on completion of sites already designated for development (H1 and MU1). • Build for local need only, and do not swamp the village with new housing. Prioritise local people and workers for local social housing • Prioritise local people and workers on Home Argyll waiting list for social housing which becomes available in the Community Council area. • Encourage local residents to join the Home Argyll waiting list if they are looking for housing and are already eligible, or will soon become so. Improve energy efficiency of existing homes • Allow solar panels and other emissions-saving improvements which improve the EPC ratings of existing homes in Luss Conservation Area. • Support and make available grants and information for improving the EPC ratings of existing housing stock (e.g. insulation, ground source heat pumps) Page 82
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49 “Luss is full” is a sentiment heard repeatedly whilst preparing this plan - hardly a surprise when the village receives over 850,000 visitors annually, overwhelming it for large parts of the year. To enable a better experience for both visitors and residents, this plan proposes better management of visitor numbers, anti-social behaviour on land and loch, visitor facilities and litter. “Visitors are here to stay and are a vital part of the local economy, but the numbers must be better managed.” priority three visitor management [comment from the public consultation] WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. BETTER MANAGE THE PRESSURE OF EXCESSIVE VISITOR NUMBERS. 2. MAKE LUSS BAY SAFE AND PEACEFUL. 3. STOP ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR BY A MINORITY. 4. AVOID ENCOURAGING GREATER FOOTFALL AND TRAFFIC IN THE HISTORIC CORE OF LUSS VILLAGEAND RESIDENTS. 48 Page 83
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WHO NEEDS TO BE INVOLVED, AND HOW QUICKLY CAN IT HAPPEN? WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. BETTER MANAGE THE PRESSURE OF EXCESSIVE VISITOR NUMBERS. 2. MAKE LUSS BAY SAFE AND PEACEFUL.3. STOP ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR BY A MINORITY. 4. AVOID ENCOURAGING GREATER FOOTFALL AND TRAFFIC IN THE HISTORIC CORE OF LUSS VILLAGE. 51 WHAT ACTIONS WE NEED TO TAKE ... Action Key players Timeline National Park Scottish Enterprise Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council National Park Landowners Telecoms operators National Park Local businesses and community Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Skills Development Scotland Argyll College UHI National Park Local businesses Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Local community Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Sustrans Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Emergency services Argyll and Bute Council National Park Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors National Park Scottish Government National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors Argyll and Bute Council Luss Estates Company Church of Scotland National Park Local community National Park Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Argyll and Bute Council Action Key players Timeline National Park Argyll and Bute Council Local community National Park Landowners Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council Registered Social Landlords (e.g. Link, Argyll Community Housing Association) Scottish Government Argyll and Bute Council Property owners and landlords Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council Village Hall Committee Church of Scotland Luss Estates Company National Park Local community Village Hall Committee Local community Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Luss Estates Company Local community Argyll and Bute Council Community Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Helensburgh & Lomond Area Community Planning Group Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Transport Scotland Police Scotland Local community Local community National Park Friends of Loch Lomond Businesses and landowners Argyll and Bute Council Restrict parking and vehicular access in Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and manage new businesses to protect Luss residential core 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better control commercial activities in public spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve mobile phone signal 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create more apprenticeships and work experience for local community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve transport for workers from outwith the community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Implement traffic management proposals in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create local accommodation for workers 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create pedestrian- priority zone in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Upgrade Loch Lomond walking and cycling route 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve safety and emergency access along A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Maintain and improve bus services 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Manage access to Luss from A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve visitor behaviour in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better manage Luss beaches and pier 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Ban powered watercraft from Luss Bay 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve public spaces, path network and litter management throughout area 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Re-use vacant Luss visitor centre 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Duck Bay visitor facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Designate ‘area of pressure’ 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and reduce number of holiday lets and second homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Develop affordable homes for young people, families and workers in and around Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Scottish Government Prioritise local people and workers for local social housing 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve energy efficiency of existing homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Retain vital community facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve communications 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Establish community fund 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Make more use of Luss Village Hall 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Luss play park and green spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Provide local childcare 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Ban powered watercraft from Luss BayBan powered watercraft from Luss Bay Extend parking restrictionsExtend parking restrictions Better manage Luss pier and Better manage Luss pier and beaches to north and southbeaches to north and south Improve public toiletsImprove public toilets Luss village pathsLuss village paths Improve public green spaceImprove public green space Re-use vacant visitor centreRe-use vacant visitor centre Except rescue boat and navigation area around pier South on old A82 through Aldochlay & Bandry ** **** ** Manage Glen Luss parkingManage Glen Luss parking Signpost as main Signpost as main village accessvillage access Prevent vehicle access to Prevent vehicle access to north car park at nightnorth car park at night with visitor information on parking, noise restrictions etc (years) Restrict parking and vehicular access in Luss • Implement, enforce and monitor Traffic Regulation Order and walking/cycling improvements in Luss village (for more information, see Priority 4: Getting About). • Extend car parking restrictions south on old A82 from Luss through Aldochlay and Bandry (for more, see Priority 4: Getting About). • Manage parking at bottom of Glen Luss road. Manage access to Luss from the A82 • Signpost Luss village from A82 at northern access only (not via Bandry), and improve junction safety (see also Priority 4: Getting About). • Improve information for visitors arriving on A82 relating to parking, loch access, restrictions etc (e.g. electronic car park signage on A82). • Create safe pedestrian access and crossings to/ from Luss bus stops on A82 (see also Priority 3: Visitor Management) Improve visitor behaviour in Luss village • Sign and enforce noise restrictions in Luss village and on beach and pier between 8am and 6pm. • Prevent vehicular access to north car park at night to reduce antisocial behaviour. • Improved enforcement and presence to prevent antisocial behaviour. • Improve signage and enforcement of byelaw prohibiting public consumption of alcohol in Luss and the wider area. • Keep byelaw signage clear and up to date. • Increase capacity and extend opening hours of public toilets. • No further ice cream vans and street trading in the village core. • Discourage further commercial development in Luss Conservation Area east of the old A82 (see also Priority 5: Jobs and Business). Ban powered watercraft from Luss Bay • Except for a navigation area around the pier and operation of the rescue boat. • Provide National Park with appropriate legal powers and resources to control activity on the loch. Better manage Luss beaches and Pier • Prevent access to pier at night. • Ban any additional commercial activities operating from/on Luss beaches. • Install monitored CCTV. • Improve access to beach for disabled people and create viewing area. • Create managed slipway access for the local community. Improve public spaces, path network and litter management throughout the area • Enhanced maintenance of public spaces including benches, picnic tables, landscaping and signage in and around Luss and elsewhere along A82. • More bins and better litter management in public places and path networks, including Luss village and beach, A82 laybys. • Invest in high capacity efficient waste management network such as underground storage at modern litter/recycling stations. • Improve views of loch from lochside cycle track (e.g. ‘Windows on the Loch’ initiative). • Maintain Luss village paths. • Consider reducing size of north car park to create additional public green space, once Traffic Regulation Order has been implemented. Re-use vacant Luss visitor centre • Upgrade building and return to use as a facility which will benefit both locals and visitors (complementary to existing facilities, no Class 3 cafe/restaurant use unless ancillary to main use, include hub for rangers, wardens and police). Improve Duck Bay visitor facilities • Improvements to toilets, seating, picnic areas, play areas etc. • Ban powered watercraft (except emergency vessels and scheduled waterbuses). Designate ‘Area of Pressure’ • Designate the Community Council area or a wider area as an ‘area of [visitor] pressure’ as described in the preamble to Policy 30 of National Planning Framework 4 Page 84
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53 Moving around can be problematic in different ways for residents, workers, visitors and emergency services. Problems are most acute at weekends and in the summer due to the numbers of visitors and the volumes of traffic along the A82. The poor pedestrian infrastructure in Luss itself creates hazards throughout the year. “It is very hard to get here if you can't drive” “We need to take the wheelchair onto the road to move around the village because of lack of dropped kerbs and parking on pavements” priority four getting about [comments from the public consultation] WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. IMPROVE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY AND DISABLED ACCESS IN LAND AROUND LUSS. 2. REMOVE UNNECESSARY TRAFFIC FROM THE CENTRE OF LUSS. 3. BETTER PARKING MANAGEMENT IN AND AROUND LUSS. 4. IMPROVED CYCLING INFRASTRUCTURE ALONG THE LOCHSIDE AND OLD A82. 5. SAFETY ON THE A82, PARTICULARLY AROUND LUSS ITSELF. 6. QUICKER ACCESS FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES ALONG THE A82 CORRIDOR. 7. EASIER ACCESS TO HELENSBURGH AND THE VALE FOR THOSE ON LOW INCOMES OR WITHOUT A CAR. 52 Page 85
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WHO NEEDS TO BE INVOLVED, AND HOW QUICKLY CAN IT HAPPEN? WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. IMPROVE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY AND DISABLED ACCESS IN AND AROUND LUSS. 2. REMOVE UNNECESSARY TRAFFIC FROM THE CENTRE OF LUSS. 3. BETTER PARKING MANAGEMENT IN AND AROUND LUSS. 4. IMPROVED CYCLING INFRASTRUCTURE ALONG THE LOCHSIDE AND OLD A82. 5. SAFETY ON THE A82, PARTICULARLY AROUND LUSS ITSELF. 6. QUICKER ACCESS FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES ALONG THE A82 CORRIDOR.7. EASIER ACCESS TO HELENSBURGH AND THE VALE FOR THOSE ON LOW INCOMES OR WITHOUT A CAR. 55 WHAT ACTIONS WE NEED TO TAKE ... Implement traffic management proposals in Luss village • As a matter of urgency, implement the Traffic Regulation Order approved in 2022 to restrict vehicle access and parking in the village core to residents, disabled, service and emergency vehicles. • Implement accompanying enforcement measures as outlined by the Scottish Government Reporter. • Implement ongoing monitoring as outlined by the Scottish Government Reporter to ensure scheme is effective and parking permit system is working for residents on low incomes and businesses. • Relates also to Priority 3: Visitor Management. Create accessible pedestrian-priority zone in Luss village • Aims should be to ensure pedestrian priority, disabled access, safer walking and cycling, good lighting and reduced vehicle speeds throughout the village core. • Design and implement physical changes to roads and footways in the village, including the old A82, Primary School and access to beach (see plan). • Reduce speed limit in Luss from 40mph to 20/30mph • Complement the Traffic Regulation Order (see above), and build on National Park’s West Loch Lomondside Supplementary Guidance 2017 and 2016 traffic management options appraisal. • Proposals should include pedestrian priority zones, redesign of roads and footways, reallocation of roadspace, signage, speed reduction measures, lighting, street furniture, dropped kerbs and beach access. • See also Priority 3: Visitor Management. Improve safety and emergency access along A82 • Work with Transport Scotland and other authorities to ensure urgent action is taken, citing STPR2 (2022) recommendation 37 relating to the impact of trunk roads on communities. • Ensure emergency services have safe and rapid access along A82 corridor. • Create safe pedestrian access and crossings to/ from Luss bus stops on A82 (see also Priority 3: Visitor Management). • Signpost Luss village from A82 at northern access only (not via Bandry), and improve junction safety (see also Priority 3: Visitor Management). • Ensure planting on road verges is managed to maintain visibility. Action Key players Timeline National Park Scottish Enterprise Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council National Park Landowners Telecoms operators National Park Local businesses and community Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Skills Development Scotland Argyll College UHI National Park Local businesses Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Local community Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Sustrans Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Emergency services Argyll and Bute Council National Park Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors National Park Scottish Government National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Action Key players Timeline National Park Argyll and Bute Council Local community National Park Landowners Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council Registered Social Landlords (e.g. Link, Argyll Community Housing Association) Scottish Government Argyll and Bute Council Property owners and landlords Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council Village Hall Committee Church of Scotland Luss Estates Company National Park Local community Village Hall Committee Local community Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Luss Estates Company Local community Argyll and Bute Council Community Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Helensburgh & Lomond Area Community Planning Group Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Transport Scotland Police Scotland Local community Local community National Park Friends of Loch Lomond Businesses and landowners Argyll and Bute Council Improve communications 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Establish community fund 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Make more use of Luss Village Hall 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Luss play park and green spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Provide local childcare 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Prioritise local people and workers for local social housing 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve energy efficiency of existing homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Retain vital community facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Designate ‘area of pressure’ 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and reduce number of holiday lets and second homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Develop affordable homes for young people, families and workers in and around Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Scottish Government Improve public spaces, path network and litter management throughout area 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Re-use vacant Luss visitor centre 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Duck Bay visitor facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Manage access to Luss from A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve visitor behaviour in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better manage Luss beaches and pier 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Ban powered watercraft from Luss Bay 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create more apprenticeships and work experience for local community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve transport for workers from outwith the community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Implement traffic management proposals in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and manage new businesses to protect Luss residential core 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better control commercial activities in public spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve mobile phone signal 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create local accommodation for workers 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create pedestrian- priority zone in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Upgrade Loch Lomond walking and cycling route 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve safety and emergency access along A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Maintain and improve bus services 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict parking and vehicular access in Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Upgrade walking and cycling routeUpgrade walking and cycling route Upgrade walking and cycling routeUpgrade walking and cycling route Traffic management in village coreTraffic management in village core A82 bus stopsA82 bus stops A82 Luss junctionA82 Luss junction along old A82 and continuations north and south along old A82 and continuations north and south including access and parking restrictions, pedestrian priority, disable access, lighting and speed reduction !! !! (years) Maintain and improve bus services • Especially to/from shops, health facilities, rail connections etc in the Vale and Helensburgh. • Create shuttle bus for staff, visitors and locals along A82 corridor south and north. • Consider improvements for wider area including Arrochar and Tarbet. Improve access for elderly and disabled people • At footways, crossings, car parks, pier, beaches and public spaces in Luss, and footways, footpaths, bus stops, crossings, car parking etc throughout the area. • Attention should be paid to safe, barrier-free, accessible design and maintenance, including lighting and surface quality. Page 86
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57 This includes avoiding encouraging further business and footfall in the core of Luss village, whilst also recognising that the local community needs jobs and business opportunities in order to be a sustainable, thriving community. “too many businesses taking over the village and now another business from Glasgow ... is wanting to run a business in the middle of an already over-run village, not caring about the noise and obstructing the locals.” “allow new businesses to develop out of the village to attract people away from the village” priority five jobs & business [comment from the public consultation] WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. ENABLE EXISTING BUSINESSES TO CONTINUE TO THRIVE AND CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL PEOPLE, BUT WITHOUT DAMAGING THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR VILLAGE RESIDENTS OR THE ENVIRONMENT.2. CLOSER CONTROL OF OUTDOOR TRADING LICENCES IN LUSS. 3. CREATE BUSINESS AND WORK OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS, ESPECIALLY YOUNG PEOPLE. 4. ENABLE BUSINESSES TO SECURE WORKERS FROM OUTWITH THE AREA IF NEEDED. 56 Page 87
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WHO NEEDS TO BE INVOLVED, AND HOW QUICKLY CAN IT HAPPEN? 59 WHAT ACTIONS WE NEED TO TAKE ... Restrict and manage new businesses to protect Luss residential core • Retain and support existing business premises. • Prevent development of new tourism- related businesses and change of use / conversion of existing dwellings or other properties to tourism-related businesses in Luss residential core. Better control commercial activities in public spaces • Prevent new outdoor trading licences and renewals of existing licences except where operated by existing businesses which have permanent premises in Luss village, or which are operated by local residents. • Prevent commercial activities on Luss pier and beach (e.g. paid-for classes or mobile vending). Improve mobile phone signal • Essential communications infrastructure for businesses and customers. Create more apprenticeships and work experience for local community • Maximise opportunities and education experience for young people in particular; for example, partnership between Luss Estates and schools. Improve transport for workers from outwith the community • Please refer to Priority 4: Getting About. Create local accommodation for workers • Provide Park-wide solution for seasonal workers, such as affordable hostel- or student-type accommodation and/or travel. WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 1. ENABLE EXISTING BUSINESSES TO CONTINUE TO THRIVE AND CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL PEOPLE, BUT WITHOUT DAMAGING THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR VILLAGE RESIDENTS OR THE ENVIRONMENT.2. CLOSER CONTROL OF OUTDOOR TRADING LICENCES IN LUSS. 3. CREATE BUSINESS AND WORK OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS, ESPECIALLY YOUNG PEOPLE. 4. ENABLE BUSINESSES TO SECURE WORKERS FROM OUTWITH THE AREA IF NEEDED. Action Key players Timeline National Park Scottish Enterprise Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council National Park Landowners Telecoms operators National Park Local businesses and community Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Skills Development Scotland Argyll College UHI National Park Local businesses Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Scottish Enterprise Local community Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Sustrans Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland Emergency services Argyll and Bute Council National Park Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Argyll and Bute Council National Park Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council National Park Transport Scotland National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors National Park Scottish Government National Park Argyll and Bute Council Visitors Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Local community National Park Action Key players Timeline National Park Argyll and Bute Council Local community National Park Landowners Argyll and Bute Council Argyll and Bute Council Registered Social Landlords (e.g. Link, Argyll Community Housing Association) Scottish Government Argyll and Bute Council Property owners and landlords Action Key players Timeline Argyll and Bute Council Village Hall Committee Church of Scotland Luss Estates Company National Park Local community Village Hall Committee Local community Local community Argyll and Bute Council National Park Luss Estates Company Local community Argyll and Bute Council Community Council National Park Argyll and Bute Council Helensburgh & Lomond Area Community Planning Group Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Transport Scotland Police Scotland Local community Local community National Park Friends of Loch Lomond Businesses and landowners Argyll and Bute Council Improve communications 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Establish community fund 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Make more use of Luss Village Hall 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Luss play park and green spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Provide local childcare 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Prioritise local people and workers for local social housing 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve energy efficiency of existing homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Retain vital community facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Designate ‘area of pressure’ 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and reduce number of holiday lets and second homes 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Develop affordable homes for young people, families and workers in and around Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Scottish Government Improve public spaces, path network and litter management throughout area 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Re-use vacant Luss visitor centre 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve Duck Bay visitor facilities 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Manage access to Luss from A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve visitor behaviour in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better manage Luss beaches and pier 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Ban powered watercraft from Luss Bay 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create more apprenticeships and work experience for local community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve transport for workers from outwith the community 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Implement traffic management proposals in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict and manage new businesses to protect Luss residential core 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Better control commercial activities in public spaces 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve mobile phone signal 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create local accommodation for workers 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Create pedestrian- priority zone in Luss village 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Upgrade Loch Lomond walking and cycling route 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Improve safety and emergency access along A82 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Maintain and improve bus services 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Restrict parking and vehicular access in Luss 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 > 8 > 9 > 10 Pier and beachPier and beach Residential coreResidential core (years) Page 88
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61 Some of the proposals in this Plan extend beyond the immediate environs of Luss village. These are summarised on the map opposite. “Traffic on Tulloch Rd (Glen Douglas) has increased significantly in the last 10 years with hardly any improvements made. Passing places have no signage and are almost unusable, road signs damaged or have never been replaced.” the area as a whole [comment from the public consultation] 60 Glen LussGlen Luss AldochlayAldochlay BandryBandry Loch LomondLoch Lomond BallochBalloch Duck BayDuck Bay HelensburghHelensburgh ArdenArden MuirlandsMuirlands Luss & Arden Community Luss & Arden Community Council BoundaryCouncil Boundary LussLuss Tackle A82 southbound congestion Tackle A82 southbound congestion towards Arden & Ballochtowards Arden & Balloch Improve visitor facilities, Improve visitor facilities, ban private powered ban private powered watercraftwatercraft Upgrade A82 walking & Upgrade A82 walking & cycling routecycling route Improve A82 laybys Improve A82 laybys (various locations)(various locations) Stronger powers Stronger powers to control powered to control powered watercraft, especially at watercraft, especially at Luss Bay, Aldochlay & Luss Bay, Aldochlay & Duck BayDuck Bay Improve road in Glen DouglasImprove road in Glen Douglas !! !! ** InverbegInverbeg Glen DouglasGlen Douglas Page 89
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63 Next steps 5 62 Turning the whole of this plan into reality is likely to take at least 5 years. Some actions can be done very quickly, such as implementing the Luss Traffic Regulation Order and better maintaining public spaces. Other things will take longer, like building new affordable housing. But work needs to start now on everything if we are to succeed. Making change happen will need a concerted effort from the local community, the National Park, the Council and others, as explained in the ‘Roles and responsibilities’ section on the next page. We all need to work together for common purpose. When we say the local community, we mean everyone that lives and works here. This plan captures the priorities of the community as a whole. But if individuals don’t step up to help, those priorities won’t happen. So, if you want to see change happen, get involved: the Community Council and the Development Trust are more than willing to assist. We have a similar message for public authorities: the National Park, Argyll and Bute Council, the Scottish Government, and others listed under ‘Roles and responsibilities’ below: WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT. Page 90
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6564 The local community: each of us individually, as local residents and businesses, needs to play our part as explained above. In terms of organisations, there are a few key organisations have important roles: • Local landowners’ and businesses’ investment and operations. • Community bodies including the Community Council, Development Trust, Village Hall Committee and Church - noting that they have limited capacity because they are staffed by volunteers and have limited funds. The National Park has a fundamental role in supporting and delivering many elements of the plan, particularly those that link to planning policy, development management, placemaking and visitor management; and in helping the local community to develop capacity and source funding. Argyll and Bute Council has powers and responsibilities to support and implement many elements of the plan, including housing, transport, roads, public spaces, economic development and licencing; and in helping the local community to develop capacity and source funding. Other local and national government bodies have important roles in enabling and supporting specific elements of the plan, as noted throughout section 4, including: • Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group in relation to communications and overall co-ordination • Transport Scotland in relation to the A82 • Police Scotland in relation to anti-social behaviour and traffic management • Strathclyde Partnership for Transport in relation to public and community transport • Scottish Enterprise, Skills Development Scotland and Argyll College UHI in relation to jobs and business Roles & responsibilities Resources Resources will be critical in delivering the plan. The challenge of securing public sector resources is well known; but, the public sector does still have staff and resources, even if their capacity and budgets are increasingly restricted. The local community has no staff and extremely limited financial resources. Working with the local community to increase capacity and resources is therefore an essential investment to enable implementation of the plan, particularly through the Community Council and Development Trust. Not every action described in section 4 requires capital investment. Some relate to changes in policy and management, such as in relation to housing waiting lists, visitor management and planning policy. The content of this plan should be considered by all organisations mentioned in the plan in planning their future service delivery, projects and operations: • Argyll and Bute Council • Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface • Argyll College UHI • Friends of Loch Lomond • Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group • Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park (including related organisations) • Police Scotland and other emergency services • Registered Social Landlords • Scottish Enterprise • Skills Development Scotland • Strathclyde Partnership for Transport • Sustrans • Transport Scotland • local landowners, businesses and community organisations Policy & management changesPage 91
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6766 Changes to existing plans & policies The Local Place Plan proposes some changes to the current local planning and policy framework. Scottish Government guidance suggests that reasons should be given why. The proposed changes and reasons are summarised in the table below: Location in section 4 Suggestion Rationale Priority 1: Retain vital community facilities To retain and make better use of local facilities Life in the community To improve public spaces, play parks and paths To better balance the needs of locals and visitors to create a stronger community Improve Luss play park and green spaces To identify land or buildings which are significant for the local community (see Planning Circular 1/2022, para. 43) Establish community fund To generate resources to implement the Local Place Plan Priority 2: Restrict and reduce number of holiday lets and second homes To sustain the community and local services / facilities Population and homes Develop affordable homes for young people, families and workers in and around Luss To enable young people, families and workers to live locally, and ultimately to sustain the community and local services / facilities Prioritise local people and workers for local social housing Priority 3: Restrict parking and vehicular access in Luss To better manage visitor pressure Visitor management To avoid encouraging greater footfall and traffic in the historic core of Luss village Ban powered watercraft from Luss Bay To improve public safety Better manage Luss beaches and pier To better manage visitor pressure To stop anti social behaviour by a minority To identify land or buildings which are significant for the local community (see Planning Circular 1/2022, para. 43) Improve public spaces, path network and litter management throughout the area To better manage visitor pressure Re-use vacant Luss visitor centre To better manage visitor pressure Improve Duck Bay visitor facilities To identify land or buildings which are significant for the local community (see Planning Circular 1/2022, para. 43) Designate ‘area of pressure’ To reduce emissions and contribute to achieving net zero To better manage visitor pressure To generate resources to implement the Local Place Plan Priority 4: Create pedestrian-priority zone in Luss village To improve pedestrian safety and disabled access in Luss village core Getting about To remove unnecessary traffic from the centre of Luss Upgrade Loch Lomond walking and cycling route To improve cycling infrastructure along the lochside and old A82 To better manage parking in and around Luss Improve safety and emergency access along A82 To improve safety on the A82, particularly around Luss itself To enable quicker access for emergency vehicles along the A82 corridor Priority 5: Restrict and manage new businesses to protect Luss residential core To enable existing businesses to continue to thrive and create opportunities for local people, but without damaging the quality of life for village residents or the environment. Jobs and business Better control commercial activities in public spaces To more closely control outdoor trading licences in Luss. Create local accommodation for workers To enable existing businesses to continue to thrive, and to enable local workers to stay locally Page 92
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69 Appendix: Community survey results The following pages contain the complete community survey results, as made publically available online following the completion of the survey part of the consultation. In total, 120 people shared their aspirations for Luss & Arden. Of those 120 people, 75 live in the local community. That means 28% of the local population answered the survey, which is high for a survey of this nature. 68 Page 93
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7170 7170 The breakdown of responses by age demographic and location within the community council area can be explored in the following diagrams. Each dot represents one survey respondent. Question 1 What age are you? Question 2 Which of these describes you? Question 3 Where do you live/work? Q1-3 Page 94
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7372 7372 We asked respondents to consider how they would rate each of the following categories out of 5 today. The average responses received in each category are plotted on the chart below as purple dots. We also asked respondents how they felt these categories had changed in the last 10 years. The average response accompanies each dot. (so for example, on average respondents ranked sustainability about 2/5, and considered it to be approximately the same as it was 10 years ago) Q4 poor excellent Page 95
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7574 7574 We asked ‘what do you like about where you live?’, for example, what’s good about living here, or what should be protected for the future? These were the key themes that emerged from your answers: Q5 Rural Peace & Quiet Including: quiet, safe, secure, peaceful, relaxing Mentions: 14 Job Opportunities Including: for growth, improvement, jobs etc Mentions: 3 Outdoor Activities Including: walking, swimming, boating, golf, fishing, cycling Mentions: 21 Community Facilities Including: School, village hall, park, playpark, restaurants Mentions: 4 Community Spirit Including: close-knit, community, people, family, neighbours, friends - atmosphere, activities Mentions: 16 History & Heritage Including: beautiful village, heritage, uniqueness, history Mentions: 9 Scenery & Nature Including: natural beauty, wide open spaces, mountains, loch, woodlands, beach, fresh air Mentions: 61 Rural yet Accessible Including: to work, to Glasgow, to Central Belt Mentions: 15 Page 96
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7776 7776 Excerpts from the written responses: “Spectacular scenery with easy access to hill-walking and water-based activities, yet still close to local towns and Glasgow. Still has community spirit including many families who have been here for decades or more.” “Who wouldn’t want to stay here? Easily accessible and close to most amenities, but having a car is indeed an advantage, especially in ‘old age’!” "Loch views, peace and quietness usually." "Glen Fruin is serene and peaceful." "We live in a most beautiful place with ancient history. Our home faces the loch. There is woodland all around. It feels rural, but is 2 miles from the nearest town for shops and groceries. There are wonderful walks nearby. We have good neighbours. My husband grew up locally - and knows all the special places." Q5 "It is nice to live in the countryside, with nature on our doorstep." "Living in a rural community with like minded friendly neighbours" "The incredible unspoilt scenery" "Stunning views and wildlife. Good atmosphere and activities." "It's a lovely place to be!" "Using Luss Village Hall for community events for all members of the community." "Location, views, loch, woodland, fairy walk, cycle paths, water sports, hills, pier, beach, job opportunities for young local people in local hotels, neighbours , visitors" "The peace and quite of countryside with little disturbance from visitors." "I love the feeling of being in the country but being a short drive or train trip to Glasgow. I love the natural beauty of the area." "Its beauty, and uniqueness" contd. Page 97
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7978 7978 We asked ‘what do you NOT like about where you live?’, for example, what makes it difficult to live or stay here? These were the key areas of concern: Q6 Luss/Aldochlay parking & traffic Including: indiscriminate parking, ignorance of one-way system, speeding traffic, lack of enforcement, price of parking permits Mentions: 25 New development Including: new houses, car parks, roads, removal of trees Mentions: 4 A82 congestion, safety & noise Including: parking and movement in the village in the tourist season, ignoring one way system, lack of enforcement, traffic congestion and speed on A82, frequency of accidents, A82 noise pollution (esp motorbikes), speeds at Arden roundabout Mentions: 35 Community council Including: poor communications, not representative Mentions: 2 Lack of Things for Young People Including: main requests: bigger park and swings, more families, more shops Mentions: 5 Poor public transport Including: poor schedule especially to Helensburgh, small bus, poor access to bus stops, accessibility Mentions: 29 Excessive tourism Including: over commercialisation (shops, businesses, ice cream vans), too busy, too many tourists, poor visitor management, residents don't seem to be considered, can't enjoy own surroundings, don't use local facilities any more Mentions: 33 Holiday lets/lack of affordable homes Including: too few permanent residents, school is at risk, lack of housing for younger families Mentions: 14 Restrictions on development Including: TPOs, Listed Building restrictions, excessive restrictions on sustainable projects Mentions: 3 Lack of community activities Including: events, activities Mentions: 4 Antisocial behaviour Including: jetskis (noise pollution), noisy visitors, inconsiderate visitors, littering, dirty camping, lack of law enforcement Mentions: 56 Lack of community facilities Including: hospital, social care, fibre broadband, maintenance of cyclepaths/footpaths, access to loch for residents' boats Mentions: 4 Page 98
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8180 8180 Excerpts from the written responses: “Anti social behaviour. Inconsiderate visitors, and the inability to enjoy our own surroundings unless it is ‘out of season’.” “Ever-increasing traffic jams and inconsiderate parking cause huge problems e.g. inability of emergency services to reach this area and return to hospitals, long delays for business deliveries, bus services and key workers.” “Too many houses are being used as holiday lets with no permanent residents, impacting on school numbers and general community activities.” “Luss is now a resort not a village for residents. Lockdown reminded me of what it was like in the village when I was a kid – it was fantastic. It should be remembered that Luss welcomes visitors when it is properly managed and has the infrastructure to cope. There are very few places in Scotland where the areas of car Q6 parks are about 3 times bigger than the village itself.” "How difficult it is to move around when the visitors are here" "Overwhelming visitors, dangerous driving, and increasing businesses encroaching every day life of residents" "Poor public transport especially to Helensburgh! So bad for us young people to get to places and return home." "Noise, litter, people not respecting the environment. Smouldering barbecues being left, can large containers be provided where they can be disposed of. Modern benches and tables that aren’t burnt out like currently near Duck Bay Marina, have fire resistant sitting facilities. Need more visibility of National Park staff providing information and talks on how the Park works and the environment." "It is very hard to get here if you can't drive" "Traffic management could be better at or on the Arden roundabout. Vehicles are passing through at too high a speed. Should have traffic management measures approaching the roundabout both ways on the A82." contd. Page 99
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8382 8382 Issues were shared to a degree across demographics, however there were instances where a particular demographic felt more or less strongly about something: Anti-social behaviour was raised by all demographics, but most commonly among 30-44 and 45-59 year olds. It was mentioned by more than 50% of people who responded in Luss (51%) and Arden & Muirlands (56%). 38% of respondents who work in the area (rather than residents) identified anti-social behaviour as an issue. Issues around the A82, including congestion, safety and noise were raised most frequently by residents of Arden and Muirlands (76% of residents mentioned this), than Luss (13%). This was also mentioned most by people aged 45-59 or older. Excessive tourism was a concern for 28% of all survey respondents. In Luss, the percentage increased to 38% of respondents. Q6 Poor public transport was mentioned 29 times in total, with more than 50% (15 mentions) of those mentions coming from respondents who work in the area. More than 50% of mentions (15 mentions) were also from respondents aged 16-29. Issues around excessive holiday lets and lack of affordable housing were mentioned 14 times in total, with more than 50% (8) of mentions coming from respondents who work in the area. Only 1 of the 14 mentions came from a respondent who didn’t live or work in Luss. The issue of jetskis and general behaviour on the loch is included in the theme of ‘antisocial behaviour’ above, but is also notable for the number of responses it received in its own right. The word ‘jetski’ was mentioned negatively in 23 written responses. “The loch is out of control – ban jetskis and get speedboats out of the bay.” “Jetskis spoil the tranquillity – very noisy and most do not abide by the speed limit.” “Fast boats and jetskis ignore the rules of the water, maybe unaware of the danger they are causing to themselves and others.” contd. Page 100
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8584 8584 To conclude, we asked ‘what do you want to happen in your community’s future?’ This is what you told us: Q7 Address anti-social behaviour Including: tackle the minority - more proactive management and enforcement on land and water (especially jetskis), noise pollution, evenings too Mentions: 31 Protect heritage & natural beauty Including: protect nature, avoid unsightly development, spread new development around and/or restrict it in Luss, cap on new businesses, keep green spaces, rewild Glen Fruin Mentions: 16 Enforcement against dirty camping Including: enforcement Mentions: 3 More climate friendly Including: allow solar panels on roofs, less bureaucratic planning, grow more food locally, better walking and cycling routes, stop cutting wildflowers on verges Mentions: 11 Better connections Including: more buses to Helensburgh, more bus stops, better walking/cycling routes, better broadband Mentions: 31 Reduce litter Including: enforcement, management, education Mentions: 14 Road improvements Including: A82 road safety and congestion, Arden roundabout, Glen Douglas road improvements (signage, passing places) Mentions: 13 Affordable homes Including: more affordable homes for families and workers, fewer holiday homes Mentions: 27 Better communication/collaboration with authorities Including: open engagement, working together on solutions, more open Community Council, joined up planning for whole area down to the Vale Mentions: 6 Focus on the community Including: stop over commercialisation; more things for locals; activities for all ages (e.g. canoeing, walks) more for kids (improve playpark); support community facilities like hall, church and school; reinstate A+E at Vale hospital; moorings for locals; new community hub (indoor/outdoor activities, teen space); shop for locals; more employment opportunities; social care Mentions: 45 Better management of visitors, parking and traffic Including: parking restrictions and enforcement; responsive police, park wardens and traffic wardens; improve traffic management; reduced visitor numbers; better toilet facilities; remove ice cream vans; beach access and management; lighting; visitor information/ interpretation; more accessible facilities Mentions: 42 Page 101
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8786 8786 Excerpts from the written responses: “Visitors are here to stay and are a vital part of local economy however the numbers must be better managed.” “More accessible housing is needed to make it a sustainable community ie. keep the school alive. Something needs to be done to reduce the number of properties being bought for holiday homes – it is killing the community.” “Ban jet skis from the Loch” “Let the community get its village back. Lockdown was amazing, I met folks I had not seen/spoken to in years, locals started talking again.” "Open and transparent engagement with locals. Finding and agreeing solutions to tackle our challenges arising from being a ‘destination’." "Be more things for the locals rather than Q7 the tourists" "Much more proactive law enforcement on the Loch and around residential areas." "I want the village to be a lovely spot for genuine tourists to enjoy & I'd love to be able to sit in the garden & read a book without being overly distracted by the amount of noise pollution." "A safer and more enjoyable environment for both residents and good, respectful tourists who contribute to the economy and don’t cause trouble." "Better public transport links, buses more frequent and the last bus to be later - particularly for people who work in the area. More policing especially during good weather. Housing available for people wanting to work in the area." "Affordable housing for workers. More transport links - later last bus. More bins. Ban of jetskis." "Put more buses on." "Indoor and outdoor facilities for kids and teenagers." "More nature awareness. Support for walkers and cyclists." contd. Page 102
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8988 8988 Again, most desires and aspirations were shared across demographics, however there were instances where a particular demographic felt more or less strongly about something they wanted to see in the community’s future: Desire to see issues with management of visitors, parking, and traffic resolved was a view shared by the whole community, but most significantly in the 45-59 demographic (58% of whom mentioned it). The desire to see better connections, including public transport and active travel, was most significantly held by the 16-29 and 30-44 demographics, between which make up 74% of the mentions for this. 21 of the 31 mentions of this (68%) were also made by those respondents working in the community, rather than living here. Only 12% of residents mentioned better connections as an aspiration. Similarly, over 50% (14 of 27) of the mentions of more affordable housing Q7 were made by respondents working in the community, rather than living here. 50% of respondents in the 30-44 demographic (both living and working) mentioned this as an aspiration. At a classroom session with Luss Primary School pupils to help them think about the future of the area, popular topics of discussion were the lack of things to do, and of other families and children. Excerpts from the children’s responses: “More things for locals rather than the tourists.” “I would like a bigger slide and swings” “More stuff for kids to do, better bus times to Helensburgh, more houses for locals, less holiday homes.” contd. Page 103
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OUR PLACE OUR FUTURE OUR PLACE OUR FUTURE This is OUR PLACE and this is OUR FUTURE Preparation of this Local Place Plan has been facilitated by Luss and Arden Community Council on behalf of the local community. We are grateful to Luss Estates Company and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park for their financial support in preparing this Plan, to the many local people and organisations who have contributed to the plan’s preparation, and to Page\Park Architects and Nick Wright Planning for their professional support. Page 104
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Home-Start Lomond 2022 - Page 105 Agenda Item 9a
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Home-Start: § Around 180 Home-Starts throughout the UK § Organisations that support families with young children § Personalised support starting in the home and with the parents § Volunteer-led approach Page 106
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Home-Start Impact: • 93% of parents report improvements in their mental health • 94% of parents become more involved in their children’s development • 94% of parents feel less isolated and more connected Page 107
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Home-Start Lomond: § 9 trained volunteers (6 operational) § 8 volunteers in training § 1 Scheme Manager § 1 Family Support Co-Ordinator Page 108
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Service §6 families receiving volunteer-led support §3 families receiving staff-led support §4 families awaiting assignment of volunteer/staff member §3 families no longer with service Page 109
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Families §5 Royal Navy Families & 1 Veteran Family §11 Health Visitor referrals §2 Social Work referrals §2 Mental Health Team referrals §1 Self-referral Page 110
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Families cont……. §5 families whose children have a diagnosed disability and/or neurodiversity §5 families with children being assessed for neurodiversity §2 set of twins & 8 families with multiple children under 5 Page 111
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Reasons for Referrals §Child’s Mental Health §Child’s Physical Health §Managing Child’s Behaviour §Parent’s own Learning Needs §Feeling Isolated • Family Conflict • Parent’s mental health • Parent’s physical health • Household Management • Parent’s Self-Esteem Page 112
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Direct Support Activities § Emotional Support for Parents § Practical Help around the House § Modelling Positive Parenting & Supporting New Behaviours § Signposting & Support to engage with other Services § Supporting Activities outside of the House § Enabling 1:2:1 parent/child time Page 113
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Other Activities §Family Hub in Churchill Square §Community Events §Fun First Collaboration §RN Families Support Page 114
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What our Families Think….. “Having someone there to encourage and cheer me on has made the biggest difference to my confidence.” “It feels great to have someone who isn’t judging me and who understands.” “I love [my volunteer]. She is really helping me to see things differently.” “I am so grateful for your support. Thanks for checking in on me, it is so reassuring!” Page 115
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Thank You, Any Questions? Page 116
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Climate Change Working Group Date: 27 April 2023 Climate Change Working Group Highlight Report Argyll and Bute Climate Action 1.0 Executive Summary This CPP sub-group, known as the Climate Change Working Group are planning the production of a Climate Change Action Plan for Argyll and Bute. The Action Plan is proposed to be produced by employing a Climate Change Project Manager to lead the process. The Climate Change Working Group recently agreed to start the project by recruiting a Project Manager this financial year. The project has been delayed due to underestimating the time taken to conclude a Memorandum of Agreement. 2.0 Highlight Report 2.1 Action Plan background The purpose of the Action Plan is to establish a region-wide climate risk assessment and to develop an integrated set of adaptation, mitigation and engagement actions. The proposed post of Climate Change Project Manager will bring organisations, businesses and communities together to develop a shared vision and understanding of climate change risks and opportunities across the Argyll and Bute region. It will identify priorities for communities, areas and sectors that will establish where (both spatially and thematically) and how the region can increase resilience and adapt, mitigate and engage on climate change issues. It will identify, but not reproduce, climate change work either already happening or part of an organisation or business’s own responsibilities. 2.2 Funding The Climate Change Working Group are currently pulling together a funding package to support the post of the Climate Change Project Manager. Page 119 Agenda Item 10a
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The cost of a Project Manager post is estimated to be in the region of £120,000 over two years, which would include the salary of an appropriately qualified climate leader, associated employer costs, T&S costs, etc. Subsequent to previous calls for funding contributions, we had two firm contributions from partners: £20,000 NHS Highland - Argyll & Bute Health and Social Care Partnership £50,000 Argyll and Bute Council We have also submitted a bid to NatureScot for funds of £15,000, for this financial year. 2.3 Progress The Climate Change working Group decided to start the project with the budget we currently have. We have decided that we would advertise the Project Manager post with options for: i) 0.80 Full Time Equivalent for two years, or ii) 1.0 Full Time Equivalent for 18 months …depending on the preferences of the successful candidate. In any case we would need to continue searching for funding for either a continuation of the project timeline, or to provide additional assistance for the part time set- up. However, it was felt that finding £30,000 in year two would be achievable. The project is almost ready to advertise for the post, but is awaiting the finalisation of the Memorandum of Agreement between the various parties, required to establish the governance arrangements. This has been more complex and time-consuming than we had planned. 3.0 Summary 1. We propose producing a strategic Action Plan process as the best, and most thorough, way to address the climate emergency in Argyll and Bute. 2. We have an approved governance arrangement for the Climate Change Project Manager post. 3. We are actively pursuing the recruitment of a Project Manager to start this Action Plan work and hope to have someone in post shortly, once the legal arrangements have been finalised. Stan Phillips, Chair, CPP Climate Change Working Group Page 120
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For more information, please contact: Stan Phillips, Operations Manager, NatureScot stan.phillips@nature.scot Page 121
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group 9 May 2023 Community Planning Partnership Management Committee Update This briefing relates to the meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee which was held on 23rd March 2023. The briefing is for noting and relevant discussion. Summary HIGHLIGHTS Matters Arising from Area Community Planning Groups An update was provided on the discussions which had taken place at all 4 Area Community Planning Groups during the February 2023 cycle of meetings. The meetings had been well attended with the terms of reference and membership of each Group agreed. Of particular interest was the re-appointment of Councillor John Armour as Vice Chair of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands (MAKI) Area Community Planning Group, and Kevin Champion as Chair for Oban, Lorn and the Isles (OLI). It was also noted that Reeni Kennedy-Boyle was appointed as Vice Chair in Bute and Cowal. The Management Committee noted the concerns raised by the MAKI and OLI ACPGs regarding the introduction of car parking charges by Forestry and Land Scotland, specifically the lack of engagement on the proposals and the negative effect charges may have on tourism and visitor numbers. The Management Committee agreed that the Chair would prepare a response on behalf of the Management Committee which will be forwarded to Forestry and Land Scotland. The CPP Management Committee met on the 23rd March 2023 with the meeting being held virtually. This update provides an overview of the discussion which took place. Reports which were discussed at the meeting can be found by following this link - Agenda for Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership - Management Committee on Thursday, 23 March 2023, 10:00 am - Argyll and Bute Council (argyll-bute.gov.uk) Page 123 Agenda Item 11
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CROSS CUTTING THEMES Climate Change Stan Philips provided a brief update report on the work of the Climate Change Working Group. It was noted that work continues to secure funding for a Climate Change Project Manager to take forward the development of a climate change action plan, with £90k of the required £120k secured. Pippa Milne added that the council had achieved bronze carbon literacy status, with 65% of elected members now trained by Argyll and the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust. Child Poverty Mandy Sheridan advised that the associated report contained a summary of the framework on the requirements to achieve implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. She highlighted the importance of needing to move away from the idea that this is just an issue for child-facing departments and organisations, and requires a whole council approach. Pippa Milne and Councillor Robin Currie noted that the papers contained complex information on work that sits alongside many other council duties i.e. island impacts, environment and social. Mandy responded that it is her plan to hold an event once the action plan had been firmed up, to communicate to stakeholders that the implementation journey would need to build new skills and approaches and best practice may take time to develop. It was noted that a review of the Child Poverty Action Plan would begin shortly and is the first to include a target year of monitored work. Fiona Davies was optimistic that having come close to meeting current targets, the plan would help to achieve a reduction in child poverty in Argyll and Bute, she also advised that £197,000 had been awarded from the Scottish Government for Island Support. Financial Inclusion Fergus Walker highlighted the range of different work around financial inclusion, including crisis grants, concessionary housing payment, flexible fuel and food fund and the Love Local cards. Community Wealth Building (CWB) Takki Sulaiman advised that work was being taken forward on a CWB audit, and following consultation the brief had been split into separate lots. The separate lots being: - how we look at land and assets to how we currently procure, - identification of relevant replicable case studies, - development of strategy and action, and - can business cases and models be developed for us? Page 124
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Takki confirmed that CLD funding had allowed a collection of groups in Oban to explore opportunities that take advantage of CWB as a methodology. Digital Communities Iain MacInnes reported on the significant work regarding the R100 programme in the Oban area and shared the maps of completed premises that now have access to full fibre across Argyll and Bute. The Digital Scotland website shows where fibre is available or when it is expected. Iain highlighted there may now be residents in areas that can access full fibre but are not aware. Regarding the resilience of the Carradale mobile masts, Iain advised that the network coverage by EE is very good whereas other networks have poor signal. Iain confirmed that each ESN mast has power outage resilience via wind, solar or generator power as they must be active at all times. Iain advised that a contract to provide IT equipment to the island hubs (Islay, Coll, Jura and Tiree) has been agreed and that the equipment would be installed in late April 2023. Funding has been applied to extend this work further into 2023/24. Alex Edmonstone advised that the CLD Partnership will reconvene next month and that the digital sub-group has been working with Takki Sulaiman on digital mapping to review existing activity and identify the support need to deliver essential skills to communities. Building Back Better Kirsty Moyes advised that the Community Development Team had provided support to non-digital and hard to reach groups to support participation in the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan (ABOIP) consultation. Takki Sulaiman provided a link to the TSI volunteer survey findings and gave an overview of the key points: - 106 responses to the survey covering 40 organisations and individual volunteers, - qualitative and quantitative findings aligned to national research by SCVO on the cost of living crisis and its impact on volunteering, - many organisations are struggling to recruit to volunteering roles - further conversations needed by TSI on how to provide support to volunteers - volunteers and organisations are interested in incentive schemes (discount cards etc). - results suggest that the cost of living crisis has not directly impacted volunteer behaviour but it has directly impacted volunteer families, and - the response regarding having a single volunteer system to on-board volunteers was inconclusive. Takki advised that a successful, family friendly, volunteering event took place in Hermitage Academy, Helensburgh, where Community Councils and 60 groups got together and matched those organisations with a surplus of volunteers to those with shortages. Page 125
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ARGYLL AND BUTE OUTCOME IMPROVEMENT PLAN CONSULTATION RESULTS AND NEXT STEPS. Rona Gold presented information on the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan survey, methodology and participation rates, highlighting that over 1,900 responses had been received, over 1,000 paper copies of the survey were issued, with 230 posters and 500 fliers placed across Argyll and Bute to advertise the survey. The survey was also promoted via ebulletins, the Chief Executives podcast, twitter and Facebook. The team monitored the incoming survey results and then targeted promotion to increase participation across geographical areas and protected characteristics. Kirsty Moyes presented highlights on the support by the Community Development Team to engage potential non-digital and hard to reach groups to participate in the survey. Paper surveys were widely distributed and interactive sessions were provided to support the completion of the forms, adapting to the audience with easy to read resources, different voting methods including QR codes and bucket voting. Central collection points and prepaid envelopes were also provided to ensure no costs were associated with the return of completed paper surveys. Over 40 community groups were supported to participate covering approximately 520 individuals and a video showcasing the engagement was played to the attendees. Lucy Dunbar presented the work undertaken to engage young people. Promotion included church groups, young carers, development trusts, youth cafes, schools, scouts and guides. A further 18 youth organisations were contacted directly and there was also work with the LiveArgyll Youth Work team and CLD Partnership. Feedback received after targeted promotion was that young people were not engaged by the online survey, so an adapted single page survey was created in a more youth friendly format and language. John McLuckie highlighted the overall top 3 priorities for Argyll and Bute are Transport Infrastructure, Housing and Community Wellbeing. A fourth priority theme of Financial Inclusion was also identified. It was noted that the survey would close on 31 March 2023. Rona advised the next step would be to analyse the survey results in more depth at a development day. Rona advised that John was currently preparing a key and handbook for the anonymised data, other steps include: - sending thanks to all participants with an outline of next steps, - holding CPP development day (May / June dependent on diaries), - deep dive with online / offline groups over summer / autumn, - definitions of housing, community wellbeing and transport are agreed, - identify what needs to be improved, - long term actions agreed, - re-consult with stakeholders to ensure our understanding of the priorities and the actions proposed to address these matches those of our communities, - draft report published (with consultation at this point required under legislation), and - plan published. Page 126
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For further information, please contact: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council (01436) 657605 Stuart.mclean@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 127
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