Public reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 28 February 2024
Back to Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Area Committee — 28 February 2024 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Argyll and Bute Council Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheal Agus Bhòid Executive Director: Douglas Hendry Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 602127 Fax: 01546 604435 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 21 February 2024 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE & THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE will be held ON A HYBRID BASIS BY MICROSOFT TEAMS AND IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, KILMORY, LOCHGILPHEAD on WEDNESDAY, 28 FEBRUARY 2024 at 10:30 AM, which you are requested to attend. Douglas Hendry Executive Director BUSINESS 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTE OF THE MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE HELD ON 6 DECEMBER 2023 (Pages 3 - 8) 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 5. TRANSPORT SCOTLAND - ANNUAL UPDATE Verbal update by North West Area Manager, Transport Scotland 6. SCOTTISH WATER - ANNUAL UPDATE Verbal update by Regional Communities Manager – West, Scottish Water 7. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ3 2023/24 (Pages 9 - 56) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services 8. PRIMARY AREA ATTAINMENT REPORT: MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS (MAKI) (Pages 57 - 78) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education 9. HOUSING SERVICES ACTIVITY UPDATE - STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN (SHIP) - ANNUAL UPDATE (Pages 79 - 92) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth Public Document Pack
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10. 2023/24 ACTIVE TRAVEL PROGRESS REPORT (Pages 93 - 110) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth 11. LOCHGILPHEAD TO CRINAN CANAL ACTIVE TRAVEL ROUTE: CONCEPT DESIGN AND FUTURE EXTERNAL FUNDING (Pages 111 - 118) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth 12. LOCHGILPHEAD CARS - RECOMMENDATION OF GRANT AWARDS (Pages 119 - 124) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth 13. SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - MONITORING OF PROJECTS FUNDED (Pages 125 - 132) Report by Chief Executive’s Unit 14. AREA PLANS UPDATE (Pages 133 - 150) Presentation by Chief Executive’s Unit 15. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE (TO FOLLOW) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 16. ROADS CAPITAL PROGRAMME (TO FOLLOW) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 17. CHARITABLE TRUSTS, BEQUESTS AND TRUST FUNDS - DISTRIBUTION ARRANGEMENTS (Pages 151 - 162) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support 18. MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN (Pages 163 - 168) Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Area Committee Councillor John Armour Councillor Jan Brown Councillor Garret Corner (Chair) Councillor Robin Currie (Vice-Chair) Councillor Jennifer Kelly Councillor Tommy MacPherson Councillor Dougie McFadzean Councillor Dougie Philand Councillor Alastair Redman Shona Barton, Governance Manager Contact: Iona Campbell, Senior Committee Assistant - 01436 658 801
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MINUTES of MEETING of MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE & THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE held ON A HYBRID BASIS BY MICROSOFT TEAMS AND IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, KILMORY, LOCHGILPHEAD on WEDNESDAY, 6 DECEMBER 2023 Present: Councillor Robin Currie (Vice Chair) Councillor John Armour Councillor Jan Brown Councillor Jennifer Kelly Councillor Tommy MacPherson Councillor Dougie McFadzean Councillor Dougie Philand Attending: Shona Barton, Governance Manager Hugh O’Neill, Networks and Standards Manager James Lafferty, Lochgilphead CARS Project Officer Charlotte Craig, Business Improvement Manager, Argyll and Bute HSCP Seymour Adams, Vice Chair, Cultural, Heritage and Arts Assembly, Argyll and the Isles (CHARTS) Michelle Mundie, Chief Executive, Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) David Moncrieff, Member of the Public 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE The Vice Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Councillors Garret Corner and Alastair Redman. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Councillor Dougie Philand declared a non-financial interest in agenda item 12 (Lochgilphead CARS – Recommendation of Grant Award) due to members of his family being in the building industry and possible tenderers for works to be carried out in relation to this project. 3. MINUTE OF THE MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE HELD ON 6 SEPTEMBER 2023 The Minute of the meeting of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee, held on 6 September 2023 was approved as a correct record. 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME The Governance Manager advised that there had been no public questions submitted in advance of the meeting. Having noted that there were members of the public in attendance, the Vice Chair invited them to submit any questions they may have. David Moncrieff (Present) Page 3 Agenda Item 3
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What is Argyll and Bute Council’s record of reportable accidents/incidents to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) during the last 3 years? Having established that Mr Moncrieff had submitted this question in a number of formats already, the Governance Manager undertook to establish whether such a request had been received and its current status for response in terms of the Freedom of Information legislation. Following on from the question he raised at the last meeting of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee, Mr Moncrieff advised that he had not received a truthful response from the Governance Manager. The Governance Manager advised that the response to the question asked had been provided to Mr Moncrieff via the Council’s Customer Service Centre following the meeting on 6 September 2023. Mr Moncrieff indicated that he had a further question in relation to Councillor expenses. Having established that an answer to this question had already been provided, the Vice Chair declined to accept this question. 5. CHARTS UPDATE The Committee gave consideration to a presentation by the Vice Chair of the Cultural Heritage and Arts Assembly (CHARTS) for Argyll and the Isles. The presentation included information on the impact of partnership working on both regional and local areas and provided highlights of key projects throughout the MAKI area. Mr Adams also provided information in relation to funding streams and the benefits of the continued support received from Argyll and Bute Council. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee thanked Mr Adams for his informative presentation and noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation by Vice Chair, CHARTS, submitted) 6. ACHA ANNUAL UPDATE Consideration was given to a presentation by the Chief Executive of ACHA, which provided an update on a number of areas including the investment programme for 2023/24; the Warm Homes Fund Project; the Business, Energy, Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Whole House Retrofit Programme; the progress of the replacement of wet electric heating systems; the Exemplar Estates initiative and information on the Scottish Government Grant which has allowed the progression of a number of adaptations and essential aids for the most vulnerable customers across Argyll and Bute. Information on welfare rights was also provided. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee thanked Ms Mundie for her informative presentation and noted the information provided. (Reference: Presentation by Chief Executive, ACHA, submitted) Page 4
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7. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP - PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ1 (APRIL - JUNE 2023/24) Consideration was given to a report which provided an update on performance against each of the service areas and the 93 supporting Key Performance Indicators, as well as an update from the Heads of Service giving a wider context and identifying risks and mitigations. The report also provided an update on the National Health and Wellbeing Outcomes and Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators and the information in relation to delayed discharges. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee considered and noted:- 1. the performance for FQ1 (April to June 2023/24); 2. the summary overview of the Heads of Service Performance update; 3. the performance update on the National Health and Wellbeing Outcomes and the Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators, as at Appendix 1 of the report; 4. the System Pressure Report for August 2023, as at Appendix 2 of the report; and 5. the Delayed Discharge Sitrep for August 2023, as at Appendix 3 of the report. (Reference: Report by Senior Manager, Performance and Improvement, Argyll and Bute HSCP, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) 8. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ2 2023/24 Consideration was given to the Area Performance Report for financial quarter 2 of 2023/24 (July to September 2023) which illustrated the agreed performance measures for the period. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee:- 1. noted and considered the performance and supporting commentary as presented; 2. agreed that upon receipt of the Quarterly Performance Report, the Area Committee contact either the Responsible Named Officer or Sonya Thomas with any queries; and 3. noted that work was ongoing and to respond to Sonya Thomas with requests or comments regarding the layout and format of the Performance Report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) 9. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE Page 5
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The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided links to the recent activities of Roads and Infrastructure Services; information on the Roads Capital Programme and an update on the A816 Ardfern Landslip. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) The Chair moved and the Committee agreed to adjourn for a short comfort break until 12:20pm. Upon resuming, all those present, were as per the sederunt, with the exception of Councillor Tommy MacPherson, who had submitted his apologies for the remainder of the meeting. . 10. KILKERRAN CEMETERY UPDATE REPORT Consideration was given to a report which provided an update on the works carried out to increase the lair availability at Kilkerran Cemetery and in identifying another site to build a new Cemetery for Kintyre. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee:- 1. considered and noted the remaining availability and current works to repurpose Kilkerran Cemetery which officers estimate will extend the cemetery lair availability by 8 years; 2. considered and noted the updated comments relative to Cemetery development at Kilkerran in the Moy Holdings area; and 3. agreed that this item should remain on the workplan until such time as another site to build a new Cemetery for Kintyre has been identified and agreed. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) 11. TARBERT PLAY PARK UPDATE REPORT The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided an update on the work carried out with the Tarbert Play Park Group and subsequent presentation to the Tarbert Community Council on Thursday, 9 November on renewing the Tarbert Play Park. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee:- Page 6
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1. considered and noted the positive engagement with the local Community Council and the Tarbert Play Park Group; 2. considered and noted the proposed change in play park design and equipment which has been asked for locally by residents and the Play Park Group; and 3. considered and noted the proposed process for tendering for the new play park. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) Having declared a non-financial interest in the following item of business, Councillor Philand left the room and took no part in discussion of this item. . 12. LOCHGILPHEAD CARS - RECOMMENDATION OF GRANT AWARD The Committee gave consideration to a report which sought agreement on the granting of awards for the remaining two priority building projects that form part of the Lochgilphead Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS). Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee approved the following grant offers from the Lochgilphead Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS):- 1. up to two hundred and twenty one thousand, nine hundred and thirty three pounds and twelve pence (£221,933.12) to the owners of 2-4 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead; and 2. up to one hundred and seventy five thousand, seven hundred and fifty pounds and eighty pence (£175,750.80) to the owners of 6-10 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Economic Development, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) Councillor Philand re-joined the meeting for the remainder of the business. . 13. CHARITABLE TRUSTS, BEQUESTS AND TRUST FUNDS Consideration was given to a report which provided details of a number of the Trusts and Bequests that remain active in the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands area and sought agreement from Members on proposed distribution methods. It was noted that the reference to the Hutcheson Memorial Trust contained within the report and appendix should in fact read Hutcheon Memorial Trust. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee:- 1. noted the financial position of the Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds as of December 2023; Page 7
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2. agreed that the Hutcheon Memorial Trust and May Paterson Trust prizes be limited to £30; 3. agreed that all other charities and trust funds, that have historically been awarded to Council departments and Allied partners, are awarded on the basis outlined in paragraph 5.5 and defined within Appendix 1 of the report; and 4. agreed that officers develop proposals for distribution arrangements for the Campbell Bequest, McNeill Bequest, the Mcalister Mortification and the Fisher Bequest for later consideration by Members. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) 14. MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN The Committee gave consideration to the Area Committee workplan for future meetings. It was noted that further discussion would take place with Education in terms of the scheduling of the Secondary School Reports which are currently scheduled for the June Area Committee meeting. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee considered and noted the contents of the workplan. (Reference: Area Committee Workplan, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) 15. APPOINTMENT TO OUTSIDE ORGANISATIONS Having noted that Councillor Jennifer Kelly was elected in the Ward 1 By-Election held on Thursday, 2 November 2023, the Committee gave consideration to a report which advised that Councillor Jennifer Kelly had been appointed as a Trustee of the Kintyre Youth Fund. Decision The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee noted the recommendations contained within the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support, dated 6 December 2023, submitted) Page 8
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1 ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MID-ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES 28 FEBRUARY 2024 AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT – FQ3 2023/24 1.0 BACKGROUND 1.1 This paper presents the Area Performance Report for Financial Quarter 3 2023/24 (October to December 2023) and illustrates the agreed performance measures. 1.2 The features of the Performance Report are as follows:- ➢ Indicators are grouped by Corporate Outcome. ➢ The data table for each indicator is coded to identify the level of reporting. o Area level measures are blue o Council level measures are grey o COI measures are white ➢ Each indicator details the o Target, Actual and Performance status (Green / Red / No Target) for the current and four previous financial quarters. o Commentary for the current financial quarter only. o Narrative explaining the performance trend e.g. This indicator is above Target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. o Where appropriate a Performance Trend Line has been added. o The name of the Responsible Officer. o Where possible performance is presented at both Area and Council level. 1.3 The commentary for each indicator helps ‘Tell Our Story’ and enables Elected Members to put the performance data into perspective and understand if an issue is local in nature or should be escalated up to a Strategic Committee. 1.4 To improve the response to performance queries, it is requested that either the Responsible Named Officer or Sonya Thomas are contacted once the Quarterly Performance Report is received with any queries. This should enable some queries being resolved or clarified prior to the Area Committee meeting, and therefore being carried forward as Actions at a subsequent meeting. 1.5 As part of our improvements to performance reporting and making best use of the digital technology available to us, officers have developed new, online scorecards for members to view performance data. If support is required to navigate the online scorecards please contact - lorna.gillies@argyll-bute.gov.uk or sonya.thomas@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 9 Agenda Item 7
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2 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 It is recommended that the Area Committee – a) Notes and considers the performance and supporting commentary as presented. b) Upon receipt of the Quarterly Performance Report the Area Committee contact either the Responsible Named Officer or Sonya Thomas with any queries. c) Note that work is ongoing and to respond to Sonya Thomas with requests or comments regarding the layout and format of the Performance Report. 3.0 IMPLICATIONS 3.1 Policy All of the indicators in this report are based on agreed Council policy. 3.2 Financial All indicators with financial implications are actively managed through agreed budget monitoring processes. 3.3 Legal All appropriate legal implications are complied with. 3.4 HR All HR implications are actively managed through agreed Wellbeing and Management monitoring processes. 3.5 Fairer Scotland Duty See below. 3.5.1 Equalities All activities comply with Equal Opportunities/Fairer Scotland Duty policies and obligations. 3.5.2 Socio-economic Duty All activities comply with the council’s socio- economic duty. 3.5.3 Islands Duty All activities comply with the council’s islands duty. 3.6 Climate Change The Council is committed to working towards net zero. 3.7 Risk Without this information Elected Members are less informed of activities within their area. 3.8 Customer Service All activities with customer feedback or insight are rigorously monitored for improvement. 3.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC): This report highlights examples of how the Council is committed to, and working towards reducing child poverty and improving outcomes for every child. Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services Jane Fowler Head of Customer Support Services 7 February 2024 Page 10
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3 For further information, please contact: Sonya Thomas Organisation Development Project Officer - Customer Support Services 01546 604454 Appendix 1: FQ3 2023/24 MAKI Performance Report Page 11
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Appendix 1 Page 1 All Areas FQ3 2023/24 Overall Performance Summary The information presented is a summary of the agreed measures. Unless stated otherwise, performance is presented at both Area and Council-wide levels. The measures show the performance against target for the current and previous three reporting periods with an explanation of performance trend. The data table for each indicator is colour coded to identify the level of reporting: Area level measures are blue. Council level measures are grey. Corporate Outcome Indicators (COIs) are white. Where appropriate a Trend Line has been added to illustrate movement in ‘Actual’ over the reporting period. Page 13
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Appendix 1 Page 2 Performance Reporting All Areas .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1 Performance Reporting .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives ............................................................................................................................ 5 COI – Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund ................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives ............................................................................................................................ 6 COI – Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention ...................... 6 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................... 7 Number of parking penalty notices issued – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay .................................................................................................................................. 7 Number of parking penalty notices issued – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................................................... 8 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................... 9 Car parking income to date – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay .......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Car parking income to date – Argyll and Bute ............................................................................................................................................................................. 10 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities .................................................................................................................................. 11 Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay ................................................................................................................................. 11 Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Argyll and Bute ...................................................................................................................................................... 12 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start ................................................................................................................... 13 COI – Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional tracking and monitoring plans in place .... 13 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start ................................................................................................................... 14 COI – Provide quality meals with cost margins to all pupils ....................................................................................................................................................... 14 Corporate Outcome No.4 – Education, skills and training maximises opportunities for all .......................................................................................................... 15 Maximise the percentage of 16-19 years olds participating in education, training or employment – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay ...................................... 15 Maintain the percentage of 16-19 years olds in Argyll and Bute participating in education, training or employment services – Argyll and Bute ................ 16 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 17 Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay ................................................................................... 17 Page 14
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Appendix 1 Page 3 Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Argyll and Bute ........................................................................................................ 18 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 19 Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay ........................................................... 19 Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Argyll and Bute ................................................................................ 20 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 21 Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay ...................................................................... 21 Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Argyll and Bute ........................................................................................... 22 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 23 COI – Number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period ......................................................................................... 23 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 24 COI – Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the awards of contracts via the procurement portal .................................................... 24 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving .................................................................................................................................................. 25 COI – Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally ........................................................................... 25 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 26 Street lighting – percentage of faults repaired within 10 days – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay ................................................................................................. 26 The percentage of street lighting faults are completed within 10 working days – Argyll and Bute .......................................................................................... 27 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 28 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay .......................................................................................................... 28 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Argyll and Bute ............................................................................................................................... 29 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 30 COI – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ................................................................................................................................................ 30 Renewi (formerly Shanks) – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ........................................................................................................... 31 Islands – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered .......................................................................................................................................... 32 H&L – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered ............................................................................................................................................... 33 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 34 Page 15
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Appendix 1 Page 4 COI – The number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill ................................................................................................................................................................. 34 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth ............................................................................................................... 35 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Mid Argyll ............................................................................................................................... 35 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Kintyre ..................................................................................................................................... 36 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Islay ......................................................................................................................................... 37 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................... 38 Making It Happen ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 39 Teacher sickness absence – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay ........................................................................................................................................................... 39 Teacher sickness absence – Argyll and Bute ................................................................................................................................................................................ 40 Making It Happen ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 41 LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay .................................................................................................................................. 41 LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Argyll and Bute ....................................................................................................................................................... 42 Making It Happen ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 43 COI – Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts ....................................................................................................................................... 43 Page 16
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Appendix 1 Page 5 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives COI – Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ3 2022/23 95.3% 129.2% Green FQ4 2022/23 95.3% 144.0% Green FQ1 2023/24 95.3% 112.9% Green FQ2 2023/24 95.3% 134.3% Green FQ3 2023/24 95.3% 138.2% Green Performance in FQ3 has exceeded the target and actual has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Projected spend for the programme for 2023/24 is £670,000. A paper will be issued to Policy & Resources in February outlining the issue around the level of spend and also asking for support in lobbying the Scottish Government for more programme funding for future years. Responsible person: Fergus Walker Page 17
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Appendix 1 Page 6 Corporate Outcome No.1 – People live active, healthier and independent lives COI – Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ3 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ4 2022/23 100% 95% Red FQ1 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ2 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ3 2023/24 100% 100% Green This indicator for FQ3 has met the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment This is a voluntary survey with no obligation for clients to respond either in full or in part. It is also common for incomplete returns to be received. In FQ3 2023/24, 11 survey forms were distributed to clients. 6 were returned. Of these 6 returns, 5 responded to the question relating to being better able to deal with their financial problems. Of these 5 respondees, 5 responded positively, whilst 0 responded negatively. Accordingly, 100% of clients that responded were positive about their experience i.e. no negative comments or responses were reported. Responsible person: Lee Roberts Page 18
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Appendix 1 Page 7 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Number of parking penalty notices issued – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 8 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 36 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 51 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 36 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 69 No target The indicator for FQ3 shows the number of parking penalty notices has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Free parking two weeks prior to Christmas. Amenity Wardens off-work between 24 Dec to 3 Jan (non-essential staff). Due to Elected Members representation wardens have been covering the MAKI area over the last quarter. This has resulted in increased Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) numbers in MAKI, however, this may have effected PCN numbers in other areas while wardens were in the MAKI area. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Page 19
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Appendix 1 Page 8 Number of parking penalty notices issued – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 1,343 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 1,332 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 1,816 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 1,172 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 1,015 No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of parking penalty notices has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Free Parking around Christmas Period, amount depending on location. Lining issues continue. Amenity Wardens (as non-essential staff) not operating at Christmas break. Lining/signing continuing to deteriorate, which means wardens are unable to enforce. Operations have been made aware and are looking to get the lining redone when lining teams are available and weather permitting. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Page 20
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Appendix 1 Page 9 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Car parking income to date – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Performance is presented cumulatively for both Area and Council-wide levels. For individual car parks, the income is presented on a quarterly basis. Reporting Period Target (Cumulative) Actual (Cumulative) Status FQ3 2022/23 £52,075 £61,366 Green FQ4 2022/23 £63,673 £66,911 Green FQ1 2023/24 £16,315 £19,706 Green FQ2 2023/24 £40,722 £38,087 Red FQ3 2023/24 £55,578 £65,965 Green This indicator for FQ3 shows the cumulative amount of income collected is higher than the cumulative target. There is no performance trend as this data is cumulative. FQ3 Comment Local members have been asking for more patrols in the MAKI area. It is thought that the extra patrols have been seen by users of the Inveraray car parks who are now paying for parking rather than risking a fine. The Committee are asked to note that there are no known factors that will affect car parking income in the MAKI area. Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Actual quarterly income collected in Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay during FQ2 and FQ3. Car Park Location FQ2 Actual FQ3 Actual Fisher Row, Inveraray £2,701 £5,833 The Avenue, Inveraray £6,675 £15,172 Front Street and Toilets, Inveraray £9,198 £6,859 Lorne Street, Lochgilphead -£193 £14 MAKI (parking permits) £0 £0 Total £18,381 £27,878 Page 21
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Appendix 1 Page 10 Car parking income to date – Argyll and Bute Performance is presented cumulatively for both Area and Council-wide levels. Reporting Period Target (Cumulative) Actual (Cumulative) Status FQ3 2022/23 £812,919 £709,585 Red FQ4 2022/23 £993,968 £817,788 Red FQ1 2023/24 £234,056 £253,705 Green FQ2 2023/24 £584,204 £486,151 Red FQ3 2023/24 £797,331 £807,348 Green This indicator for FQ3 is shows the cumulative amount of income collected is slightly higher than the cumulative target. There is no performance trend as this data is cumulative. FQ3 Comment There were delays in processing income from G4S which has seen parts of the income placed into the wrong cost codes. Officers have worked with Finance to identify this and the extra income has been pulled through into this quarter. We have also fitted new parking machines which are easier to use. This may well have increased usage and subsequently income. Going forward the Committee are asked to note the following factors that will affect car parking income: B&C: No issues. H&L: Glen Loin 2 has (incomplete) electric charger installs (from June), which is affecting 2 bays. MAKI: No issues. OLI: North Pier car park closures for cruise ship visits (FQ1 onwards). Responsible person: Hugh O’Neill Page 22
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Appendix 1 Page 11 Corporate Outcome No.2 – People live in safer and stronger communities Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 15 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 26 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 32 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 23 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 24 No target This indicator for FQ3 is shows the number of dog fouling complaints has increased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment There were 24 complaints received this quarter for the Maki area, broken down as follows; Islay 3, Kintyre 8 and Mid Argyll 13. The Warden Service will continue to patrol and monitor these areas as and when they can in an effort to reduce the number of complaints. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 23
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Appendix 1 Page 12 Dog fouling – total number of complaints – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 47 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 77 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 60 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 51 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 46 No target This indicator for FQ3 is shows the number of dog fouling complaints has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The number of dog fouling complaints this quarter has reduced from 51 to 46. In order to reduce this further the Warden Service will continue to monitor and patrol. Islay was the only area this quarter to issue a dog fouling fine. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 24
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Appendix 1 Page 13 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start COI – Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional tracking and monitoring plans in place This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ3 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ4 2022/23 100% 100% Green FQ1 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ2 2023/24 100% 100% Green FQ3 2023/24 100% 100% Green This indicator for FQ3 is has met the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Each care experienced child and young person enrolled in an authority school has tracking and monitoring plans in place via our SEEMIS database. Data collated includes attendance, exclusion, progress and attainment and wellbeing information. Our systems continue to be refined to ensure data is relevant and supports early intervention. A bespoke tracking and monitoring system is in development. Improvements to date include: programme of data driven dialogue between Designated Managers and the Virtual Head Teacher, discreet identification of CECYP for class teachers and appropriate data sharing with partner agencies. Raising the profile of our CECYP has led to an increased awareness of this cohort, positively impacting on personalised support, including at transition points. Responsible person: Louise Chisholm Page 25
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Appendix 1 Page 14 Corporate Outcome No.3 – Children and young people have the best possible start COI – Provide quality meals with cost margins to all pupils This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ3 2022/23 +/-5.00% 6.09% Red FQ4 2022/23 +/-5.00% -2.56% Green FQ1 2023/24 +/-5.00% 5.00% Green FQ2 2023/24 +/-5:00% -7.07% Red FQ3 2023/24 +/-5:00% 4.12% Green This indicator for FQ3 is within the +/-5.00% target variance and performance has improved since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The overall food cost percentage for the authority was 4.12%. We will continue to monitor areas and individual schools that have a variance out with the +/-5% target. B&C 0.54% H&L -0.52% MAKI -2.82% OLI 6.92% Responsible person: Christine Boyle Page 26
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Appendix 1 Page 15 Corporate Outcome No.4 – Education, skills and training maximises opportunities for all Maximise the percentage of 16-19 years olds participating in education, training or employment – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 94.00% 94.30% Green FQ4 2022/23 94.00% 94.70% Green FQ1 2023/24 94.00% 94.85% Green FQ2 2023/24 94.00% 97.28% Green FQ3 2023/24 94.00% 96.11% Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment As of 1st December 2023, the Participation figure (16-19 year-olds in employment, training or education) in Mid-Argyll, Kintyre and Islay was 987 young people, which equates to 96.11%. This is 2.11% above target and 0.51% above the annual Argyll and Bute Participation figure of 95.60%, which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2023. The Participation figure of 96.11% for FQ3 of 2023/24 is a decrease of 1.17% on the Participation figure for FQ2 2023/24. Responsible person: Jennifer Crocket Page 27
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Appendix 1 Page 16 Maintain the percentage of 16-19 years olds in Argyll and Bute participating in education, training or employment services – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 94.00% 93.90% Red FQ4 2022/23 94.00% 93.62% Red FQ1 2023/24 94.00% 93.75% Red FQ2 2023/24 94.00% 95.94% Green FQ3 2023/24 94.00% 94.37% Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment As of 1st December 2023, the Participation figure (16-19 year-olds in employment, training or education) for the whole of Argyll and Bute was 3909 young people, which equates to 94.37%. This is 0.37% above target and 1.23% below the annual Argyll and Bute Participation figure of 95.60%, which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2023. The Participation figure of 94.37% for FQ3 of 2023/24 is a decrease of 1.57% on the Participation figure for FQ2 2023/24. Responsible person: Jennifer Crocket Page 28
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Appendix 1 Page 17 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ3 2022/23 1 1 Green FQ4 2022/23 4 4 Green FQ1 2023/24 0 0 Green FQ2 2023/24 0 0 Green FQ3 2023/24 0 0 Green This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of completions has met the target for the reporting period. FQ3 Comment No social sector new builds were due for completion in this period. Responsible person: Kelly Ferns Page 29
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Appendix 1 Page 18 Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ3 2022/23 37 37 Green FQ4 2022/23 67 67 Green FQ1 2023/24 26 26 Green FQ2 2023/24 40 40 Green FQ3 2023/24 4 4 Green This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of completions has met the target for the reporting period. FQ3 Comment In FQ3 - 4 x particular needs units completed by ACHA in Dunoon 1x2bed, 1x3bed, 2x4bed. B&C 4 H&L 0 MAKI 0 OLI 0 Responsible person: Kelly Ferns Page 30
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Appendix 1 Page 19 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 75.0% 36.0% Red FQ4 2022/23 75.0% 30.6% Red FQ1 2023/24 75.0% 51.7% Red FQ2 2023/24 75.0% 8.3% Red FQ3 2023/24 75.0% 28.1% Red This indicator for FQ3 is below target however, performance has increased significantly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Commentary Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted as it works through a backlog of casework that has accumulated through the Covid pandemic and which has been exacerbated by extended periods of operating with reduced staffing levels due to issues with recruitment to vacant posts, and the introduction of National Planning Framework 4. Whilst vacancies across the service have now largely been filled the focus of officer remains geared toward the resolution of statutory casework with the handling of pre-application enquiries afforded lower priority in caseload management. To assist with the management of reduced customer expectations the target for responding to pre-app enquiries has been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. During FQ3 14 pre-apps were responded to within MAKI. 34.4% were issued within 6 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 31
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Appendix 1 Page 20 Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 75.0% 52.5% Red FQ4 2022/23 75.0% 55.4% Red FQ1 2023/24 75.0% 47.5% Red FQ2 2023/24 75.0% 49.1% Red FQ3 2023/24 75.0% 55.0% Red This indicator for FQ3 is below target however, performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted as it works through a backlog of casework that has accumulated through the Covid pandemic and which has been exacerbated by extended periods of operating with reduced staffing levels due to issues with recruitment to vacant posts, and the introduction of National Planning Framework 4. Whilst vacancies across the service have now largely been filled the focus of officer remains geared toward the resolution of statutory casework with the handling of pre-application enquiries afforded lower priority in caseload management. To assist with the management of reduced customer expectations the target for responding to pre-app enquiries has been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. During FQ3 120 pre- apps were responded to across ABC. 62.5% were issued within 6 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 32
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Appendix 1 Page 21 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 8.0 weeks 15.3 weeks Red FQ4 2022/23 8.0 weeks 16.2 weeks Red FQ1 2023/24 8.0 weeks 21.4 weeks Red FQ2 2023/24 8.0 weeks 24.4 weeks Red FQ3 2023/24 8.0 weeks 23.4 weeks Red This indicator for FQ3 is above target (lower is best) and performance has improved since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment This measure only relates to planning applications received for alterations to existing premises. Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted as it works through a backlog of casework that has accumulated through the Covid pandemic and which has been exacerbated by extended periods of operating with reduced staffing levels due to issues with recruitment to vacant posts, and the introduction of National Planning Framework 4. Improving resource availability has allowed the focus of the DM Service to shift from the prioritisation of the most significant applications to addressing the accrued backlog of older applications. The determination of a higher-than-normal volume of older cases has a significant impact on "average time taken" performance measures as a relatively small number of older cases can skew the outcome. It is also noted that these performance measures are based on "raw data" and as such have not been adjusted to take into account delays to determination out with the control of the planning authority. FQ3 has seen the determination of 3 'legacy' applications and an increasing volume of newer case work. This has resulted in a significant improvement with the average time period for determination of householder applications reducing by 3 weeks from FQ2. 87% of applications determined in FQ3 were less than 6 months old; these items were determined in an average time of 12.0 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 33
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Appendix 1 Page 22 Householder planning applications – average number of weeks to determine – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 8.0 weeks 12.0 weeks Red FQ4 2022/23 8.0 weeks 17.3 weeks Red FQ1 2023/24 8.0 weeks 21.6 weeks Red FQ2 2023/24 8.0 weeks 18.1 weeks Red FQ3 2023/24 8.0 weeks 16.8 weeks Red This indicator for FQ3 is above target (lower is best) and performance has improved since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment This measure only relates to planning applications received for alterations to existing premises. Performance across the Development Management Service continues to be impacted as it works through a backlog of casework that has accumulated through the Covid pandemic and which has been exacerbated by extended periods of operating with reduced staffing levels due to issues with recruitment to vacant posts, and the introduction of National Planning Framework 4. Improving resource availability has allowed the focus of the DM Service to shift from the prioritisation of the most significant applications to addressing the accrued backlog of older applications. The determination of a higher-than-normal volume of older cases has a significant impact on "average time taken" performance measures as a relatively small number of older cases can skew the outcome. It is also noted that these performance measures are based on "raw data" and as such have not been adjusted to take into account delays to determination out with the control of the planning authority. FQ3 has seen the determination of 3 'legacy' applications and an increasing volume of newer case work. This has resulted in a significant improvement with the average time period for determination of householder applications reducing by 3 weeks from FQ2. 87% of applications determined in FQ3 were less than 6 months old; these items were determined in an average time of 12.0 weeks. Responsible person: Peter Bain Page 34
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Appendix 1 Page 23 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – Number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 41 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 30 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 32 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 36 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 26 No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of applicants has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment During FQ3, the housing service provided temporary accommodation for 26 new homeless households. B&C: 16 households (4 x Registered Social Landlord Property, 1 x Private Sector Property, 8 x Serviced Accommodation, 3 x Bed & Breakfast). H&L: 1 household (1 x Private Sector Property). MAKI: 3 households (3 x Private Sector Properties). OLI: 6 households (3 x Private Sector Properties, 3 x Supported Accommodation). Please note: • The Registered Social Landlord and Private Rented Sector properties are leased by the Council and sub-let to homeless households as temporary accommodation. • Serviced Accommodation is available in Cowal and Helensburgh and is for single people providing an en-suite bedroom and shared kitchen facilities. • Supported accommodation is provided in Lorn by Blue Triangle Housing Association. B&C: 16 H&L: 1 MAKI: 3 OLI: 6 Responsible person: Morven Macintyre Page 35
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Appendix 1 Page 24 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the awards of contracts via the procurement portal This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 20.0% 19.4% Red FQ4 2022/23 20.0% 22.5% Green FQ1 2023/24 20.0% 10.8% Red FQ2 2023/24 20.0% 26.5% Green FQ3 2023/24 20.0% 27.8% Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment FQ3 has shown a further increase. From the 18 contracts awarded, 7 local suppliers submitted a bid, 5 of which were successful. The Procurement, Commercial and Contract Management Team will continue to support local suppliers by providing useful information on the Council's website. Responsible person: Anne MacColl-Smith Page 36
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Appendix 1 Page 25 Corporate Outcome No.5 – Our economy is diverse and thriving COI – Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status FQ3 2022/23 No target - No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 43 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target - No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 37 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target - No target This indicator is reported in FQ2 and FQ4. This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of community benefits has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Reported on a six monthly basis. FQ3 and FQ4 will be reported in April 2024. Responsible person: Anne MacColl-Smith Page 37
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Appendix 1 Page 26 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Street lighting – percentage of faults repaired within 10 days – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 75% 44% Red FQ4 2022/23 75% 28% Red FQ1 2023/24 75% 17% Red FQ2 2023/24 75% 63% Red FQ3 2023/24 75% 57% Red This indicator for FQ3 is below target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Overall Argyll and Bute performance figure of 46% during a period where annual leave and sickness absence have been prevalent in the small lighting team. This has had a negative Impact on our performance this quarter. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 38
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Appendix 1 Page 27 The percentage of street lighting faults are completed within 10 working days – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 75% 30% Red FQ4 2022/23 75% 32% Red FQ1 2023/24 75% 37% Red FQ2 2023/24 75% 43% Red FQ3 2023/24 75% 46% Red This indicator for FQ3 is below target however performance has increased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment We maintain 14,442 street lights throughout Argyll and Bute, including the islands. Some street lighting faults cannot be fixed by the Street Lighting Team and we require assistance from power suppliers (SSE or Scottish Power) or our Roads colleagues/external contractors to repair underground cable faults and power supply issues. These type faults are often reported as single dark lamps but following attendance/investigation they can be identified as more serious problems that will take longer to repair. On average throughout the year approximately 98.8% of our street lights are operating/functioning as designed. Our Maintenance Team comprises 3x Street Lighting Electricians, 1x Clerk of Works/Inspector and 1x Trainee Team Leader. At present around 95% of assets have been upgraded to Energy Efficient and more reliable LED Luminaires. Works are continuing to convert/upgrade the rest of our inventor. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 39
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Appendix 1 Page 28 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 2 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 6 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 6 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 10 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 3 No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of waste collection complaints has decreased significantly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay received only 3 waste collection complaints this quarter. A very good level of service provided by the Amenity staff. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 40
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Appendix 1 Page 29 Total number of complaints regarding waste collection – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 35 No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 53 No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 67 No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 101 No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 18 No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of waste collection complaints has decreased significantly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment For the months of October, November and December only 18 waste collection complaints were received. Given the number of bins serviced, domestic, commercial, recycling, glass and food this is a very good level of service. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 41
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Appendix 1 Page 30 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 45.0% 56.7% Green FQ4 2022/23 45.0% 52.0% Green FQ1 2023/24 45.0% 47.6% Green FQ2 2023/24 45.0% 59.8% Green FQ3 2023/24 45.0% 49.0% Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment 49.0% recycling, composting and recovery (36.1% recycling/composting plus 12.9% recovery). Renewi sent some general waste to an energy from waste plant as part of a trial during December 23, which has improved recovery figures and reduced landfill during the quarter. Year to date figures are 53.3% recycling, composting and recovery (44.1% recycling/composting plus 9.2% recovery). Responsible person: John Blake Page 42
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Appendix 1 Page 31 Renewi (formerly Shanks) – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 67.4% No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 61.9% No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 53.0% No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 68.7% No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 55.3% No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment 55.3% recycling, composting and recovery (33.9% recycling/composting plus 21.4% recovery). Renewi sent some general waste to and energy from waste plant as part of a trial during December 23 which has improved recovery figures and reduced landfill during the quarter. Year to date figures are 60.9% recycling, composting and recovery (46.5% recycling/composting plus 14.4% recovery). Responsible person: John Blake Page 43
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Appendix 1 Page 32 Islands – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 43.5% No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 35.9% No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 39.2% No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 35.6% No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 34.2% No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment 34.2% recycling, composting and recovery. Year to date figures are 36.4% recycling, composting and recovery (36.4% recycling/composting and 0% recovery). Responsible person: John Blake Page 44
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Appendix 1 Page 33 H&L – Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Performance is presented by Council-wide service provision. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 37.5% No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 34.5% No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 40.1% No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 41.6% No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 41.5% No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment 41.5% recycling, composting and recovery (40.8% recycling/composting plus 0.7% recovery). Year to date figures are 41.0% recycling, composting and recovery (40.8% recycling/composting and 0.2% recovery). Responsible person: John Blake Page 45
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Appendix 1 Page 34 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI – The number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 5,100 3,882 Green FQ4 2022/23 5,000 4,610 Green FQ1 2023/24 5,850 5,075 Green FQ2 2023/24 5,550 5,510 Green FQ3 2023/24 5,100 4,253 Green This indicator for FQ3 is below target (lowest is best). FQ3 Comment Within target. Landfill reduction of biodegradable waste tonnes to landfill is partly due to Renewi sending some general waste to an energy from waste plant as part of a trial during December 23. This has helped reduce landfill during the quarter. Responsible person: John Blake Page 46
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Appendix 1 Page 35 Corporate Outcome No.6 – We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Mid Argyll (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 73 82 Green FQ4 2022/23 73 83 Green FQ1 2023/24 73 77 Green FQ2 2023/24 73 77 Green FQ2 2023/24 73 89 Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target and performance has increased significantly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment Another good level of street cleanliness provided by the Service in Mid Argyll this quarter. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 47
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Appendix 1 Page 36 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Kintyre (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 73 81 Green FQ4 2022/23 73 81 Green FQ1 2023/24 73 82 Green FQ2 2023/24 73 83 Green FQ3 2023/24 73 84 Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target and performance has increased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The LEAMS figure of 84 is very good for the Kintyre area this quarter, October 84, November 84 and December 83. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 48
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Appendix 1 Page 37 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Islay (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 73 84 Green FQ4 2022/23 73 81 Green FQ1 2023/24 73 84 Green FQ2 2023/24 73 82 Green FQ3 2023/24 73 81 Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target however performance has decreased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The service on Islay has produced another good score for street cleanliness this quarter, exceeding both the National and benchmarking figure. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 49
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Appendix 1 Page 38 LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) – Argyll and Bute (Monthly data combined to show quarterly average) Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 73 83 Green FQ4 2022/23 73 83 Green FQ1 2023/24 73 84 Green FQ2 2023/24 73 83 Green FQ3 2023/24 73 85 Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target and performance has increased slightly since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The overall level of street cleanliness this quarter is very good indeed with a score of 85. LEAMS was originally designed to gain a measure of street cleanliness and effectiveness of service provision, to keep land free from litter and refuse, keep roads clean, this includes weeds, graffiti, staining, flyposting and vandalism. Responsible person: Tom Murphy Page 50
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Appendix 1 Page 39 Making It Happen Teacher sickness absence – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 1.80 days No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 2.23 days No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 1.68 days No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 1.13 days No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 3.26 days No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The commentary provided for sickness absence compares the data against the same period in the previous year to allow for seasonal fluctuations. MAKI Teacher absence has risen by 1.46 day per FTE on the same quarter last year. The top reasons are mental health, infections and other musculoskeletal issues. The top reasons are consistent with the overall top 2 reasons. However, the third reason for MAKI is Other Musculoskeletal reasons. Quarter 2 absence is traditionally low for Teachers as this is the summer holiday period and an increase against this quarter is traditionally seen. Responsible person: Jennifer Crocket Page 51
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Appendix 1 Page 40 Teacher sickness absence – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 1.70 days No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 2.48 days No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 2.15 days No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 1.25 days No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 2.82 days No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The commentary provided for sickness absence compares the data against the same period in the previous year to allow for seasonal fluctuations. Overall Teacher absence has risen by 1.12 day per FTE on the same quarter last year. The top 3 reasons are mental health, infections and stomach/kidney/digestive reasons. Infections and Stomach issues are characterised by short term absence types such as Covid, flu, cold, upset stomach, vomiting and gastroenteritis. The top 3 reasons are consistent with the same quarter last year albeit in higher numbers of days lost. On the last quarter (Q2) there has been an increase of 1.5 days. Traditionally quarter 2 has low absence rates due to the summer holiday period. Responsible person: Jennifer Crocket (B&C and MAK) and Wendy Brownlie (H&L and OLI) Page 52
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Appendix 1 Page 41 Making It Happen LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 3.08 days No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 3.58 days No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 2.87 days No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 2.77 days No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 3.09 days No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The commentary provided for sickness absence compares the data against the same period in the previous year to allow for seasonal fluctuations. MAKI LGE absence has stayed similar against the same quarter last year. The top reasons for absence are mental health, infections and musculoskeletal issues. There has been an increase in absence on the last quarter which follows the traditional pattern as Q2 is the summer holiday period. Responsible person: Carolyn Cairns Page 53
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Appendix 1 Page 42 LGE staff (non-teacher) sickness absence – Argyll and Bute Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 No target 3.65 days No target FQ4 2022/23 No target 4.04 days No target FQ1 2023/24 No target 3.53 days No target FQ2 2023/24 No target 3.18 days No target FQ3 2023/24 No target 3.73 days No target This indicator for FQ3 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment The commentary provided for sickness absence compares the data against the same period in the previous year to allow for seasonal fluctuations. Overall absence has stayed almost the same as the same quarter last year. It has increased slightly on FQ2 but traditionally we see this pattern with FQ2 being the summer holiday period. The top three reasons for absence were mental health, infections and other Musculoskeletal/back and neck problems. Responsible person: Carolyn Cairns Page 54
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Appendix 1 Page 43 Making It Happen COI – Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. Reporting Period Target Actual Status Trend of ‘Actual’ over the period FQ3 2022/23 70.0% 72.5% Green FQ4 2022/23 70.0% 72.2% Green FQ1 2023/24 70.0% 80.7% Green FQ2 2023/24 70.0% 72.1% Green FQ3 2023/24 70.0% 72.7% Green This indicator for FQ3 is above target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. FQ3 Comment In FQ3 there was 34,254 transactions dealt with by Customer Service Agents (27.3%) and 91,264 automated or self-service transactions (72.7%) so the 70.0% target was exceeded. Responsible person: Robert Miller Page 55
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1 Argyll and Bute Council 2023 - 2024 ‘Our Children, Their Future’ Education Service Primary Area Attainment Report: Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands (MAKI) March 2024 Page 57 Agenda Item 8
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2 Introduction Within the MAKI area there are 23 primary schools and two 3-18 schools offering primary provision. 7 of the Primary Schools are based on the islands of Coll, Gigha, Islay and Jura. There is secondary school provision in Islay High School, Campbeltown Grammar, Tarbert Academy and Lochgilphead Joint Campus. Nursery provision is provided within several of these schools (and Gaelic medium education is provided at Bowmore Primary). Our primary school rolls vary considerably ranging from 3 pupils at Furnace Primary to 204 at Dalintober Primary. This report provides a range of key information about school provision from June 2023- January 2024 and reports the National collection of attainment and achievement data from June 2023. Additional and more detailed information about each school can be found in the schools’ Standards and Quality Reports. In addition, each school’s Improvement Plan outlines their main priorities for improvement. Most schools have an active website where these documents can be accessed and further links or information can be obtained from the Head Teacher. Page 58
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3 Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands School Profiles 2019/20-2023/24 Cluster Primary Schools 19/20 20/21 21/22 22/23 23/24 % change in Roll over 5 years1 Achahoish Primary School 6 6 6 7 6 0% Ardrishaig Primary School 91 94 102 92 90 -1% Arinagour Primary School 8 6 6 5 4 -50% Bowmore Primary School 57 51 55 56 58 +2% Bowmore Primary School Gaelic Unit 16 14 16 18 22 +38% Carradale Primary School 16 16 11 11 16 0% Castlehill Primary School 205 203 194 189 175 -15% Clachan Primary School 6 6 4 9 11 83% Craignish Primary School 24 19 23 24 24 0% Dalintober Primary School 255 240 229 213 204 -20% Drumlemble Primary School 32 31 26 26 25 -22% Furnace Primary School 12 10 9 2 3 -70% Gigha Primary School 10 10 11 12 10 0% Glassary Primary School 22 23 31 29 23 5% Glenbarr Primary School 7 10 8 4 5 -29% Inveraray Primary School 65 69 62 66 59 -9% Keills Primary School 29 30 34 37 31 +7% Kilchattan Primary School 6 8 2 3 2 -67% Kilmartin Primary School 35 38 27 30 27 -23% Lochgilphead Primary School 226 207 212 204 201 -11% Port Charlotte Primary School 39 31 27 28 29 -26% Port Ellen Primary School 59 58 64 72 73 24% Rhunahaorine Primary School 10 10 12 11 13 30% Small Isles Primary School 16 19 20 20 20 +25% Tarbert Primary School 103 109 116 109 106 +3% Tayvallich Primary School 21 25 22 22 19 -10% Total 1376 1343 1329 1299 1256 -9% * Data for rolls provided at Census each year 1 Please note the % change in Roll over 5 years shows the percentage change in roll figures from 2019/20 to 2023/24 and is not an average. SIMD Profile SIMD is the Scottish Government's standard approach to identify areas of multiple deprivation in Scotland, with SIMD 1 indicating areas of highest deprivation and SIMD 10 indicating the least deprived. It can help improve understanding about the outcomes and circumstances of people living in the most deprived areas in Scotland. It can also allow effective targeting of policies and funding where the aim is to wholly or partly tackle or take account of area concentrations of multiple deprivation. Table shows percentage of pupils residing in each decile of the SIMD in each area of Argyll and Bute. * SIMD data from September 2023 Area 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Unknown B&C 16.6% 12.9% 18.7% 8.9% 21.4% 16.0% 2.3% 0.0% 1.5% 0.0% 1.7% HALCO 2.6% 6.3% 6.0% 3.2% 7.5% 13.6% 16.7% 21.9% 11.0% 8.7% 2.3% MAKI 0.0% 6.8% 8.3% 10.4% 9.2% 42.3% 22.6% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.4% OLI 1.3% 0.0% 0.2% 10.5% 25.9% 17.8% 27.0% 7.9% 0.0% 0.0% 9.4% Page 59
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4 Footwear and Clothing Grant and Free School Meal Information for AREA Clothing and Footwear Grant (CFG) is not shown as a National Average as each authority set their own criteria and therefore cannot be compared accurately. Please note that 2023-2024 data for CFG and Free School Meals (FSM) is to date (end December 2023) and therefore may change as the year progresses. In January 2022, the Scottish Government launched the extension of free school meal universal eligibility to include all children in primary 1-5. The above figures only show those pupils in P6 and P7. In August 2021 the Scottish Government introduced a School clothing grant minimum for all authorities set at £120 for Primary pupils and £150 for Secondary pupils. During session 2020/21 the Scottish Government introduced ‘Bridging’ payments of £130 per pupil in receipt of FSM under the National criteria (this excludes anyone eligible who receive FSM in P1 to P6 who do not qualify financially). These payments are made 4 times per year (Easter, Summer, October and Christmas).Further information can be found at Scottish Child Payment Bridging Payments - mygov.scot. In addition to this anyone eligible for these payments have been paid a FSM payment during the school holiday period. Further information School meals - mygov.scot Page 60
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5 Exclusion and Attendance Information for AREA *2022-23 data taken from previous AC report up to Feb 2023 - Session 2022-23 under embargo by SG **2023-24 Data up to end December 2023 Authorised absence includes bereavement, short – term exceptional domestic situations, religious observance, weddings of immediate family. Unauthorised absence includes truancy, unexplained absence and most family holidays during term time. Attendance and absence is outlined in the recently update Management Circular 3.03 During 2020/21 there were additional attendance codes added for COVID. These codes can count as attendance, authorised absence or unauthorised absence depending on the circumstance. There have been no exclusions in primary schools in the area in session 2022/23 and from August – December 2023. Please note that attendance & exclusion data for 2022/23 is up to 28 February and not a complete year Due to SG Embargo. Please note that attendance & exclusion data for 2023/24 is up to end December and not a complete year. It is therefore subject to change. Pupil attendance has been highlighted nationally as a concern. Significant work at authority level has been undertaken to maximise pupil attendance. This includes the formation of a strategic group and working party, refreshed policy and guidance, staff training, a media campaign highlighting the impact of non-attendance and individual school attendance targets. All of these aspects are working together to ensure a sharpened focus and emphasis on pupil attendance. Page 61
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6 Additional Support needs Table below indicates the numbers of pupils identified as having Additional Support Needs across the MAKI area at each stage of primary schools. Care Experienced Children and Young People A Virtual Head Teacher took up post in April 2023. The core purpose of the role of the Virtual Head Teacher is to be relentless in driving improvements in the educational progress and attainment/achievement of an identified group of young people, including Care Experienced, across Argyll and Bute. The core function of the Virtual Head Teacher in terms of planning is to ensure that all children have access to appropriate and timely support achieved by collaborating with relevant professionals to ensure plans are of a high quality, with impact and outcomes followed up. The table below shows the numbers of care experienced children in our primary schools across each area of the Council. Student Needs P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 Total Autistic spectrum disorder 11 18 11 11 4 29 32 116 Bereavement 1 2 1 1 2 7 Communication Support Needs 15 25 12 10 15 31 8 116 Dyslexia 2 3 1 24 9 26 65 English as an additional language 5 1 12 10 10 9 2 49 Family Issues 4 13 15 22 20 27 20 121 Hearing impairment 5 4 2 3 5 19 Interrupted learning 4 2 3 7 2 2 20 Language or speech disorder 17 24 18 35 14 35 26 169 Learning disability 16 4 10 4 40 20 94 Looked after 4 4 9 8 3 16 6 50 Mental health problem 3 6 4 6 19 More able pupil 1 1 2 4 Not disclosed / declared 1 1 Other 3 1 1 5 Other moderate learning difficulty 3 9 9 14 34 16 85 Other specific learning difficulty (eg numeric) 4 11 5 12 20 47 29 128 Physical health problem 3 14 12 8 10 24 21 92 Physical or motor impairment 2 21 2 13 32 18 88 Social, emotional and behavioural difficulty 13 47 33 57 62 81 74 367 Visual impairment 1 2 1 2 5 4 15 Young Carer 4 19 10 25 17 21 23 119 Area Previously looked after Looked after at home Looked after away from home Total B&C 20 12 25 57 H&L 12 4 9 25 MAKI 18 7 4 29 OLI 13 4 9 26 Page 62
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7 Attainment of Curriculum for Excellence Levels over time Curriculum levels are national levels to describe different stages of learning and progress. For most children the expectation is: Throughout the Broad General Education, children and young people are assessed and professional judgements are made by teachers about when a child or young person has achieved learning at a particular level. This means that they have broadly covered the experiences and achieved the expected outcomes for that level. In making this decision, the teacher takes into account the evidence mentioned above, and considers the benchmarks produced by Education Scotland for each level as well as diagnostic feedback from the National Standardised Assessments (NSAs). Attainment of Curriculum for Excellence Levels (ACEL) data is collected annually each June by the Scottish Government. The data collection collects information on pupil performance in four areas, known as organisers. Organisers consist of Numeracy and the three literacy components; Reading, Writing and Listening and Talking. A combined literacy measure is also produced based on the three literacy organisers: reading, writing and listening and talking. The data is collected for pupils at the key stages of P1, P4,P7 and S3. As an authority, we have made significant progress in raising attainment and closing the poverty related attainment gap. Authority level data for literacy and numeracy demonstrating increased attainment is displayed below. Further detail on progress towards closing the attainment gap between those residing in Quintile 1 and those in Quintile 5 can be found on pages 10 and 11. Page 63
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8 Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels across MAKI schools: June 2018-June 2023 NOTES: ER English reading, EW English writing, ELT English Listening and talking N Numeracy GR Gaelic reading, GW Gaelic writing, GLT Gaelic Listening and talking. There was no ACEL collection during session 2019/20 due to COVID Page 64
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9 In English medium by June 2023: In reading, 70% of P1 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 76% at authority level and 81% nationally In writing, 68% of P1 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 72% at authority level and 78% nationally In talking and listening, 80% of P1 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 83% at authority level and 87% nationally. In numeracy, 74% of P1 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 78% at authority level and 85% nationally. In reading, 70% of P4 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 77% at authority level and 78% nationally In writing, 61% of P4 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 70% at authority level and 72% nationally In talking and listening, 82% of P4 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 85% at authority level and 87% nationally. In numeracy, 73% of P4 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 75% at authority level and 77% nationally. In reading, 78% of P7 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 78% at authority level and 81% nationally In writing, 72% of P7 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 72% at authority level and 75% nationally In talking and listening, 82% of P7 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 87% at authority level and 87% nationally. In numeracy, 76% of P7 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 76% at authority level and 78% nationally. In Gaelic medium by June 2023: In reading, 100% of P1 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 75% at authority level and 84% nationally In writing, 100% of P1 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 79% at authority level and 84% nationally In talking and listening, 100% of P1 pupils in the MAKI area achieved early level, this is compared with 71% at authority level and 86% nationally. In reading, 67% of P4 pupils in the MAKI area achieved first level, this is compared with 65 % at authority level and 72% nationally In writing, 33% of P4 pupils in the MAKI area achieved first level, this is compared with 42% at authority level and 64% nationally In talking and listening, 67% of P4 pupils in the MAKI area achieved first level, this is compared with 75% at authority level and 76% nationally. In reading, 100% of P7 pupils in the MAKI area achieved second level, this is compared with 62% at authority level and 73% nationally In writing, 100% of P7 pupils in the MAKI area achieved second level, this is compared with 62% at authority level and 69% nationally In talking and listening, 100% of P7 pupils in the MAKI area achieved second level, this is compared with 85% at authority level and 85% nationally. Argyll and Bute Stretch Aims Session 2023-24 and onwards to 2026 (Authority Level) The Scottish Attainment Challenge (SAC) is about achieving equity in educational outcomes, with a particular focus on closing the poverty-related attainment gap. SAC funding is provided to all of Scotland’s local authorities to help tackle the attainment gap and support education recovery and improve outcomes for children and young people most impacted by poverty. The Scottish Attainment Challenge aims to raise the attainment of children and young people living in deprived areas, in order to close the equity gap. Attainment Advisors within Education Scotland’s regional improvement teams work with authorities to identify core attainment measures and specific aims (Stretch Aims) which, informed by local evidence and Page 65
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10 data, are identified as local priority areas for improvement. The stretch aims are intended to be both ambitious and achievable within local contexts and targets are specific to individual authorities. Progress towards achieving the current stretch aims will be reported on later in 2024. The Stretch Aims are intended to support recovery from the pandemic and accelerate progress in closing the attainment gap and include: Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels (literacy P1/4/7 combined and numeracy P1/4/7 combined) The stretch aims for literacy and numeracy identify the percentage of young people who achieve their expected Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) level: An overall attainment target, which includes all young people An attainment target for young people who live in the most deprived areas (SIMD quintile 1) An attainment target for young people who live in the least deprived areas (SIMD quintile 5) A target to reduce the attainment gap between the most and least deprived young people The Argyll & Bute literacy and numeracy tables illustrate the data from the most recent ACEL collection in 2023 (published December 2023), in comparison to the 2022-23 stretch aim and also highlight the Stretch Aim targets in place for 2024-2026 The year-on-year trend in ACEL data has been positive; in the two-year period between 2022 and 2023 the overall proportions of primary school pupils achieving the expected levels in literacy had increased by 6 percentage points, while in numeracy there had been an increase of 3 percentage points. The percentage of Quintile 1 (most deprived) young people who achieved their expected CfE level has increased by 15pp in literacy and 8pp in numeracy between 2022 and 2023. Scottish Attainment Challenge - Stretch Aims 2023-24: Literacy In literacy, the attainment gap between young people from the most and least deprived areas of Argyll & Bute was 33 percentage points in 2021, by 2022 this narrowed to 27 percentage points and narrowed further to 13 percentage points by June 2023, therefore achieving our stretch aim by 8.5 percentage points. This is 7 percentage points below the national gap of 20pp. Argyll & Bute’s target is to reduce the attainment gap further to 11 percentage points by June 2024 and to 10 percentage points by June 2026. Scottish Attainment Challenge - Stretch Aims 2023-24: Numeracy In numeracy, the attainment gap between young people from the most and least deprived areas of Argyll & Bute was 29 percentage points in 2021, by 2022 this narrowed to 18 percentage points and narrowed further to 14 percentage points by June 2023. This was 3 percentage points below the national gap of 17pp. Argyll & Bute’s target is to reduce the attainment gap to 13.5 percentage points by 2024 and to 13 percentage points by June 2026. Literacy (P 1/4/7 Combined) Stretch Aim Overall SIMD Q1 SIMD Q5 GAP (Q1-Q5) Stretch aim 22/23 68.4% 60% 81.5% 21.5pp Confirmed Dec 23 68% 68% 81% 13pp Interim Stretch Aim 2023/24 71% 70% 81% 11pp Interim Stretch Aim 2024/25 73.5% 72.5% 83% 10.5pp Final Stretch Aim 2025-26 76% 75% 85% 10pp Page 66
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11 The table below outlines the National expectations of when most children and young people may achieve each level: CfE Level Stage Early The final two years of early learning and childcare before a child goes to school and P1, or later for some. First To the end of P4, but earlier or later for some. Second To the end of P7, but earlier or later for some. Third and fourth S1-S3, but earlier or later for some. Further information: National Improvement Framework for Scottish Education – https://www.gov.scot/policies/schools/national-improvement-framework/ Numeracy (P 1/4/7 Combined) Stretch Aim Overall SIMD Q1 SIMD Q5 GAP (Q1-Q5) Stretch aim 22/23 69% 58% 87% 29pp Confirmed Dec 2023 76.19% 76% 90% 14pp Interim Stretch Aim 2023/24 78% 76.5% 90.5% 13.50pp Interim Stretch Aim 2024/25 81% 77.75% 91% 13.25pp Final Stretch Aim 2025-26 83% 78.5% 91.5% 13pp Page 67
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12 Initiatives to raise attainment and achievement In response to data and evidence gathered in the areas of literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing, a range of work has been undertaken in order to drive forward improvement and raise attainment and achievement across the authority. Literacy Quality Improvement Approach to writing 7 new schools have taken part in the training and implementation of this approach, impacting on 11 classes. 3 practitioners from 2 schools previously involved have also been trained, implementing the approach in a further 3 classes. 100% of participants believe or strongly believe that the approach will have a positive impact on their pupils. Data on impact to be gathered following the conclusion of the training in February. 9 of the 10 schools involved in the initial stages of the programme are currently implementing some degree of school spread with the approach to reach other stages, led by internal leads and supported in some cases by the Education Support Officer (ESO). Evaluation of process and support with reflection of impact is currently underway. Talk for Writing Since August, 2 schools have been implementing the Talk for Writing approach across the whole school, the approach aims to improve children’s ability to articulate their ideas for writing and support them to ensure that they can then transfer these ideas onto paper. An additional school is implementing this at early level with a clear plan for whole school implementation in August 2024. Clear aims have been set for each class, the achievement of which will be measured following the next tracking and monitoring period. Progression Frameworks Working groups have been set up for early, 1st and 2nd level to create our own Argyll and Bute progression framewokrs to support all staff with planning and monitoring progress. Listening and Talking have been completed, with Reading and Writing still ongoing. These will ensure a consistency of approach across schools and the authority and enable schools to further refine approaches to tracking progress of learners through and across levels. School Support The ESO continues to support schools on an individual basis. This includes: discussion of current curricular approaches, delivery of training sessions for staff, teaching of model lessons and discussion of data. The aim of this support is to improved experiences for learners, increase staff confidence and knowledge and ultimately lead to raised attainment. Numeracy From August 2023- January 2024 the following work has been undertaken in order to raise attainment in mathematics and numeracy. These include but are not limited to: Creation of a mathematics improvement plan, setting measurable goals and benchmarks to track progress over time. Work is underway to produce a mathematics framework to support mathematics and numeracy teaching in Argyll and Bute schools. Collaboration with colleagues to design and implement a customised professional learning programme focused on the latest pedagogical approaches, research and best practices in mathematics education. Collaboration with members of the central team to analyse assessment data and develop strategies for improving attainment and achievement in mathematics and numeracy, focussing on 2 schools as an initial test of change. Observations in targeted schools with focussed dialogue with practitioners and senior leaders on strengths and next steps. Follow up support is then identified within a given timescale and is Page 68
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13 coordinated by the numeracy lead. Wellbeing , Rights and Relationships The Glasgow Motivation and Wellbeing Profiling Tool has been introduced to schools as a way of measuring pupil wellbeing. Many schools have begun to use this, helping them to establish a sound understanding of the environment created for learning. A focus on play pedagogy and outdoor learning alongside developments in the health and wellbeing curriculum have also continued to be an important focus within school improvement plans to help support wellbeing. Through the UNICEF accredited Rights Respecting School journey, 36 schools have achieved Bronze, 12 Silver, 6 Gold awards. We will continue to provide support to schools to engage in this award. In taking a rights based approach to education, schools have been developing or embedding pupil voice structures within their setting. Food for Thought grants have been secured by two of our primary schools. This is allowing schools to develop enterprising and sustainable approaches to food with learners. Both schools have developed projects that involve a skills based approach to learning and connect our pupils to their local community Equality and diversity was a key feature of the Head Teacher conference in November. Head Teachers had the opportunity to engage in professional learning with Women’s Aid as part of Argyll & Bute’s work to reduce violence against women and girls. Education staff in a variety of roles have also taken up the offer to participate in the Safe and Together training. Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) have also delivered a session to Head Teachers to develop a stronger understanding of what inclusive education is and raise awareness of the national professional learning that all teaching staff have access to relating to LGBTQ+ issues. A large number of our schools are continuing on their journey to becoming a ‘Nurturing School’ supported by our Educational Psychology service through the ‘Our Children, their Nurturing Education’ programme. 22 schools have now achieved bronze accreditation, 6 have achieved silver and 1 school has achieved gold. Page 69
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15 School Contacts ESTABLISHMENT NAME NAME TITLE ADDRESS POST CODE TELEPHONE NO. Achahoish Primary School Lucy Blake Head Teacher Shared Headship Clachan Achahoish Primary School Achahoish, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8NZ 01880 770288 Ardrishaig Primary School Louise Paterson Head Teacher Ardrishaig Primary School Ardrishaig, Argyll PA30 8HF 01546 603695 Arinagour Primary School Sharon Burt Head Teacher Shared Headship Kilninver Arinagour Primary School Carnan Rd, Isle of Coll PA78 6TA 01879 230376 Bowmore Primary School Maureen MacDonald Head Teacher Shared Headship Port Ellen Bowmore Primary School Bowmore, Isle of Islay, Argyll PA43 7JX 01496 810522 Carradale Primary School Richard Long Head Teacher Shared Headship Drumlemble, Castlehill Carradale Primary School Carradale, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6SD 01583 431244 Castlehill Primary School Richard Long Head Teacher Shared Headship Carradale, Drumlemble Castlehill Primary School Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6LE 01586 553446 Clachan Primary School Lucy Blake Head Teacher Shared Headship Achahoish Clachan Primary School Clachan, Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6XL 01880 740258 Craignish Primary School Donna Scholefield Head Teacher Craignish Primary School Ardfern, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8QN 01852 500652 Page 71
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16 Dalintober Primary School Caroline Armour Head Teacher Dalintober Primary School Dalaruan Street, Dalintober, Campbeltown, PA28 6HG 01586 552053 Drumlemble Primary School Richard Long Head Teacher Shared Headship Carradale Castlehill Drumlemble Primary School Drumlemble, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6PN 01586 810240 Furnace Primary School Sandra Clarke Acting Head Teacher Shared Headship Inveraray (Temporary) Furnace Primary School Furnace, Inveraray, Argyll PA32 8XN 01499 500627 Gigha Primary School Lucy Blake Acting Head Teacher Shared Headship Achahoish/ Clachan (Temporary) Gigha Primary School Isle of Gigha, Argyll PA41 7AA 01583 505259 Glassary Primary School Lena Carter Head Teacher Shared Headship Tayvallich Glassary Primary School Glassary, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8QA 01546 605219 Glenbarr Primary School Caroline Armour Head Teacher Shared Headship Dalintober Glenbarr Primary School Glenbarr, Argyll PA29 6UT 0158 3421292 Inveraray Primary School Sandra Clarke Head Teacher Shared Headship Furnace Primary Inveraray Primary School Inveraray, Argyll PA32 8YH 01499 302218 Keills Primary School Andrew Welch Head Teacher Shared Headship Small Isles Keills Primary School Port Askaig, Isle of Islay, Argyll PA46 7RF 01496 840657 Kilchattan Primary School Kim Bentley Head Teacher Isle of Colonsay, Argyll PA61 7YR 01951200340 Page 72
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17 Kilmartin Primary School Namaste Bevan Head Teacher Kilmartin Primary School Kilmartin, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8QF 01546 510293 Port Charlotte Primary School Maggie MacLellan Head Teacher Port Charlotte Primary School Port Isle of Islay, PA48 7TW 01496 850327 Port Ellen Primary School Maureen MacDonald Head Teacher Shared Headship Bowmore Port Ellen Primary School Port Isle of Islay, PA42 7BW 01496 302141 Rhunahaorine Primary School Catriona Brown Head Teacher Rhunahaorine Primary School Tayinloan, Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6XG 01583 441269 Small Isles Primary School Andrew Welch Head Teacher Shared Headship Keills Small Isles Primary School Small Isle of Jura, PA60 7XG 01496 820244 Tayvallich Primary School Lena Carter Head Teacher Shared Headship Glassary Tayvallich Primary School Tayvallich, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8PW 01546 870220 JOINT CAMPUSES ESTABLISHMENT NAME NAME TITLE ADDRESS POSTCODE TELEPHONE NO. Lochgilphead Joint Campus Jay Helbert Head Teacher Lochgilphead Joint Campus Lochgilphead Joint Campus, Kilmory, Lochgilphead PA31 8AA 01546 602598 3 - 18 SCHOOLS ESTABLISHMENT NAME NAME TITLE ADDRESS POSTCODE TELEPHONE NO. Tarbert Academy Neil McKnight Head Teacher Tarbert Academy School Road, Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6TE 01880 820269 Tarbert Academy (Primary) Neil McKnight Head Teacher Tarbert Academy (Primary) School Road, Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6TE 01880 820269 Page 73
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19 School Contacts ESTABLISHMENT NAME NAME TITLE ADDRESS POST CODE TELEPHONE NO. Achahoish Primary School Lucy Blake Head Teacher Shared Headship Clachan Achahoish Primary School Achahoish, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8NZ 01880 770288 Ardrishaig Primary School Louise Paterson Head Teacher Ardrishaig Primary School Ardrishaig, Argyll PA30 8HF 01546 603695 Arinagour Primary School Sharon Burt Head Teacher Shared Headship KIlninver Arinagour Primary School Carnan Rd, Isle of Coll PA78 6TA 01879 230376 Bowmore Primary School Maureen MacDonald Head Teacher Shared Headship Port Ellen Bowmore Primary School Bowmore, Isle of Islay, Argyll PA43 7JX 01496 810522 Carradale Primary School Richard Long Head Teacher Shared Headship Drumlemble, Castlehill Carradale Primary School Carradale, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6SD 01583 431244 Castlehill Primary School Richard Long Head Teacher Shared Headship Carradale, Drumlemble Castlehill Primary School Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6LE 01586 553446 Clachan Primary School Lucy Blake Head Teacher Shared Headship Achahoish Clachan Primary School Clachan, Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6XL 01880 740258 Craignish Primary School Donna Scholefield Head Teacher Craignish Primary School Ardfern, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8QN 01852 500652 Page 75
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20 Dalintober Primary School Caroline Armour Head Teacher Dalintober Primary School Dalaruan Street, Dalintober, Campbeltown, PA28 6HG 01586 552053 Drumlemble Primary School Richard Long Head Teacher Shared Headship Carradale Castlehill Drumlemble Primary School Drumlemble, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6PN 01586 810240 Furnace Primary School Sandra Clarke Acting Head Teacher Shared Headship Inveraray (Temporary) Furnace Primary School Furnace, Inveraray, Argyll PA32 8XN 01499 500627 Gigha Primary School Lucy Blake Acting Head Teacher Shared Headship Achahoish/ Clachan (Temporary) Gigha Primary School Isle of Gigha, Argyll PA41 7AA 01583 505259 Glassary Primary School Lena Carter Head Teacher Shared Headship Tayvallich Glassary Primary School Glassary, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8QA 01546 605219 Glenbarr Primary School Caroline Armour Head Teacher Shared Headship Dalintober Glenbarr Primary School Glenbarr, Argyll PA29 6UT 0158 3421292 Inveraray Primary School Sandra Clarke Head Teacher Shared Headship Furnace Primary Inveraray Primary School Inveraray, Argyll PA32 8YH 01499 302218 Keills Primary School Andrew Welch Head Teacher Shared Headship Small Isles Keills Primary School Port Askaig, Isle of Islay, Argyll PA46 7RF 01496 840657 Kilchattan Primary School Kim Bentley Head Teacher Isle of Colonsay, Argyll PA61 7YR 01951200340 Page 76
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21 Kilmartin Primary School Namaste Bevan Head Teacher Kilmartin Primary School Kilmartin, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8QF 01546 510293 Port Charlotte Primary School Maggie MacLellan Head Teacher Port Charlotte Primary School Port Isle of Islay, PA48 7TW 01496 850327 Port Ellen Primary School Maureen MacDonald Head Teacher Shared Headship Bowmore Port Ellen Primary School Port Isle of Islay, PA42 7BW 01496 302141 Rhunahaorine Primary School Catriona Brown Head Teacher Rhunahaorine Primary School Tayinloan, Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6XG 01583 441269 Small Isles Primary School Andrew Welch Head Teacher Shared Headship Keills Small Isles Primary School Small Isle of Jura, PA60 7XG 01496 820244 Tayvallich Primary School Lena Carter Head Teacher Shared Headship Glassary Tayvallich Primary School Tayvallich, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8PW 01546 870220 JOINT CAMPUSES ESTABLISHMENT NAME NAME TITLE ADDRESS POSTCODE TELEPHONE NO. Lochgilphead Joint Campus Jay Helbert Head Teacher Lochgilphead Joint Campus Lochgilphead Joint Campus, Kilmory, Lochgilphead PA31 8AA 01546 602598 3 - 18 SCHOOLS ESTABLISHMENT NAME NAME TITLE ADDRESS POSTCODE TELEPHONE NO. Tarbert Academy Neil McKnight Head Teacher Tarbert Academy School Road, Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6TE 01880 820269 Tarbert Academy (Primary) Neil McKnight Head Teacher Tarbert Academy (Primary) School Road, Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6TE 01880 820269 Page 77
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MAKI AREA COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 28th February 2024 HOUSING SERVICES ACTIVITY UPDATE - STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN (SHIP) – ANNUAL UPDATE 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The main purpose of this report is to update Members of Housing Services activity within the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands area. This report will detail the following housing activity:- • Declaration of a Housing Emergency and Housing Summit 2023 • Housing Need and Demand • Homelessness • Affordable Housing Supply - Strategic Housing Investment Programme (SHIP) • Empty Homes • Private Sector Housing Grant Adaptations • Private Sector Housing Grant Repairs and Improvements • Energy Efficiency - Energy Efficiency Scotland: Area Based Scheme(EES:ABS) • Local Housing Strategy RECOMMENDATIONS Members are asked to consider the content of this report. Page 79 Agenda Item 9
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MAKI AREA COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 28th February 2024 HOUSING SERVICES ACTIVITY UPDATE - STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN (SHIP) – ANNUAL UPDATE 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 The main purpose of this report is to update Members of Housing Services activity and the delivery of the Local Housing Strategy within the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands area. This report will detail the following housing activity:- • Declaration of a Housing Emergency and Housing Summit 2023 • Housing Need and Demand • Homelessness • Affordable Housing Supply - Strategic Housing Investment Programme • Empty Homes • Private Sector Housing Grant Adaptations • Private Sector Housing Grant Repairs and Improvements • Energy Efficiency – Energy Efficiency Programme: Area Based Scheme • Local Housing Strategy 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 Members are asked to consider the content of this report. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 As the Strategic Housing Authority, the Council has a series of important statutory housing functions to fulfil. A Housing Need and Demand Assessment (HNDA) is carried out every 5 years which enables Scottish Government funding to be brought into Argyll and Bute primarily to deliver affordable housing. A comprehensive revision of the local HNDA was approved as “robust and credible” by the Scottish Government’s Centre for Housing Market Analysis in December 2021. The Council also produces a Local Housing Strategy (LHS) every 5 years. Full Council approved the LHS 2022-27 in December 2021. It is subject to annual updates, which are published on the Housing Strategy pages of the Council website. Page 80
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The LHS has been developed in accordance with Scottish Government guidance and local priorities as identified in the HNDA. .This sets out the vision for Argyll and Bute: “Everyone in Argyll & Bute has access to a suitable, high quality home which is affordable and located within a vibrant, sustainable and connected community.” This report details the housing activity taking place in Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands. 4.2 Declaration of a Housing Emergency In June 2023, following a report to the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee, Argyll and Bute Council became the first local authority to declare a housing emergency. A number of key statistics informed the emergency: • In 2023 there were just under 3,300 people on social rented housing waiting lists, representing an increase of 8% since the previous year. • The average housing price in 2022 was £206,000 which is 7 times the average income level in Argyll and Bute. • 11% of all homes are ineffective stock, with 6% second homes and 4% empty. • 42% of the property sales are made to people living out with the Argyll and Bute area. • There were 131 private house completions in the last 5 years representing only 17% of the expected rate. • Constructions costs have seen a 22% increase in 2022 with island construction costs significantly higher. This trend is continuing currently. • 92% of residents responding to the Housing Emergency survey said that housing shortage was having an impact on their community • Of employers who responded to the workforce housing survey, 75% said a shortage of housing was a barrier to recruiting or retaining staff 4.3 Argyll and Bute Housing Emergency Summit An action within the committee report was to hold an Argyll and Bute Housing Emergency Summit in response to the housing emergency, and this took place on the 27th November 2023 at the SAMS campus in Oban. The purpose of the Summit was to bring partners together to forge commitments aimed at tackling housing shortage by maximising resources, pursuing innovation, coordinating planning and targeting delivery capacity. An Action Plan is currently being developed and it is anticipated that this will be refined and presented to members in the next few months. Page 81
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4.4 HOUSING NEED AND DEMAND HOMEArgyll WAITING LIST November 2023 – Active Applicants (excluding applicants with 0 points i.e. no need) Minimum Bedroom Size Required TOTAL 0/1beds 2beds 3beds 4+beds Mid Argyll 125 54 22 14 215 Kintyre 87 29 15 8 139 Islay, Jura & Colonsay 84 40 21 5 150 MAKI TOTAL 296 123 58 27 504 In addition there was a registered demand from over 235 applicants who received nil points according to the Common Allocation Policy and therefore would be deemed not to have a defined housing need. This included 100 applicants for Mid Argyll, 70 for Kintyre, and 65 for Islay, Jura and Colonsay. For MAKI as a whole, the majority of applicants (59%) require one bedroom and 24% require 2 bedrooms, 12% require 3 bedrooms and only 5% need 4 or more. However, to establish actual need, the available supply must be factored into this, based on the available lets within the RSL stock during a year. Applicants per available RSL Let (Pressure Ratios) HOMEArgyll Applicants RSL Lets 2022/23 (HOMEArgyll only) Pressure Ratio Mid Argyll 215 103 2:1 Kintyre 139 82 2:1 Islay, Jura and Colonsay 150 56 3:1 MAKI Total 477 241 2:1 While the pressure ratios are only one factor in determining need and demand, they are useful indicators of areas where further research and analysis may be required. The fully revised Argyll and Bute HNDA 2021 takes account of a wide range of factors to determine existing need and future demand for new build housing, and demographic projections have a critical role in this assessment. Although the default population projections suggest a significant and continuous decline across Argyll and Bute, and consequently minimal or zero requirement for new build housing, the council has developed ambitious Housing Supply Targets based on an alternative, positive growth scenario for all areas. In this instance, 9% of the Argyll and Bute Housing requirement would be apportioned to Mid Argyll; 7% to Kintyre; and around 6% to Islay, Jura and Colonsay. Over the next 5 years this could amount to at least 318 new builds across all tenures for the MAKI area as a whole. Page 82
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4.5 HOMELESSNESS Homeless applications across the area have reduced by 12% (137 in 2021/22 to 120 for 2022/23). There was an increase of 2 applications in Kintyre but a decrease of 10 applications and Mid Argyll and decrease of 9 applications in Islay, Jura and Colonsay. During 2022/23, there were 116 homeless cases closed In the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay area: Mid Argyll – 60; Kintyre – 21 and Islay, Jura and Colonsay - 35. The graph below illustrates the number of homeless applications and cases closed for the period from 2018/19 to 2022/23. 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 Applications Cases closed Applications Cases closed Applications Cases closed Islay, Jura & Colonsay Kintyre Mid Argyll Homeless Applications and Cases Closed 2018/19 - 2022/23 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 Page 83
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The main reasons for presenting as Homeless last year were “disputes with household/relationship breakdown”, and “being asked to leave”. Rough Sleeping Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay experienced an increase in the incidence of rough sleeping over the same period last year, with 2 cases (+2) across the area reporting that they slept rough the night preceding their presentation and 2 (+1) reporting that they had slept rough in the 3 months preceding their homeless application. These were disaggregated as follows:- AREA Number of Rough Sleepers in 2022/23 Night Before Application 3 Months Prior to Application Mid Argyll 2 2 Kintyre 0 0 Islay 0 0 MAKI total 2 2 Argyll & Bute 26 36 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 1. Termination of tenancy/mortgage due to rent… 10. Dispute with household/relationship… 11. Fleeing non-domestic violence 12. Harassment 13. Overcrowding 14. Asked to leave 15. Other reason for leaving… 2. Other action by landlord resulting in the… 3. Applicant terminated secure accommodation 4. Loss of service/tied accommodation 5. Discharge from prison/hospital/care/other… 7. Forced division and sale of matrimonial home 8. Other reasons for loss of accommodation 9. Dispute with household violent or abusive Mid Argyll, Kintyre, Islay, Jura and Colonsay Reasons for Homelessness 2022/23 Isley, Jura & Colonsay Kintyre Mid Argyll Page 84
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4.6 AFFORDABLE HOUSING SUPPLY This continues to be a very challenging period for the construction sector and there is ongoing slippage in the new build programme due to disruption and shortages with materials and staffing. The Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) delivered 32 new affordable homes within the MAKI area in 2022/23, comprising 8 on Islay, 10 on Jura, 10 in Inveraray and 4 in Tarbert. RSL PROJECT Units Funding WHHA Imeraval Phase 3 8 £ 1,354,567 WHHA Jura 10 £ 2,234,633 ACHA Inveraray 10 £1,912,845 ACHA Oakhill, Tarbert 4 £903,747 Further projects in the MAKI area which are either already onsite or in early stages of development for future programming in the SHIP include: ACHA Dalintober (20 units – 2024/25) Bowmore Phase 4 (17 units – 2024/25) Tighcargaman, Port Ellen (50 units – 25/26) Glenmachrie, Islay (10 units – 26/27) Tarbert phase 1 (15 units – 26/27) Tayvallich (10 units – 26/27) Keills, Islay (4 units – 27/28) Tarbert phase 2 (15 units – 27/28) WHHA Colonsay (5 units – 2024/25) Port Charlotte(16 units – 2025/26); Imeraval Phase 4 (20 units – 2024/25) Imeraval Phase 5 (20 units – 2025/26) Port Charlotte phase 2 (17 units – 28/29) FYNE HOMES Inveraray (16 units – 2025/26) Baddens, Lochgilphead (6 units – 2024/25) Lochgilphead phase 6 (80 units – 27/28) Inveraray phase 2 (10 units – 27/28) Page 85
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4.7 EMPTY HOMES In 2022/23 there were 5 private empty homes brought back into use in MAKI, amounting to 12% all the empty homes brought back into use across Argyll and Bute last year with assistance of the Empty Homes Officer (41). Council Tax Information on Empty Homes The following table breaks down the numbers of empty homes including those subject to premium Council Tax charge across the MAKI area. The table does not include properties which are empty and exempt from Council Tax. The numbers of recorded empty homes can vary from day to day due to natural changes and reported numbers are snapshot from monthly reports. MAKI Council tax data as at 01.11.23 Number of properties on Council Tax register Empty Homes Properties subject to 200% council tax levy Total EMPTY Islay, Jura & Colonsay 2,235 30 71 101 Mid Argyll 5,797 75 98 173 Kintyre (including Gigha) 4,216 84 84 168 MAKI TOTAL 12,248 189 253 442 Council Tax Exemptions There are also a number of empty properties which are on the Council Tax register which are exempt from paying council tax. In MAKI there are 334 properties which are empty and exempt from Council Tax. The categories for empty properties include: • Class 4A = Properties recently occupied but now empty and unfurnished(163) • Class 7A = Dwellings Empty Under Statute – Closing or Demolition Order (41) • Class 6A = Deceased owners – where estate has not been settled (105) • Class 8A= Held for demolition (9) • Class 5A= Living/detained elsewhere (13) • Class 19A= Difficult to let separately (1) • Class 2A= Unoccupied- Renovation (2) Second Homes As at 1st November 2023 there were 269 registered Second Homes on Islay, Colonsay and Jura, 214 in Kintyre and 433 registered Second Homes in Mid Argyll. The total figure for MAKI 916 represents 30% of the total number of Second Homes in Argyll and Bute (3,052). Page 86
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Self-Catering Lets As at 1st March 2023 there were 682 self-catering lets on the Rates register in the MAKI area. 29% of the Argyll and Bute total (2,341). 4.8 PRIVATE SECTOR HOUSING GRANT (PSHG) – ADAPTATIONS In 2022/23, there were 11 private sector properties adapted with PSHG aid in MAKI, and a total of 22 individual adaptations installed. 4.9 PRIVATE SECTOR HOUSING GRANT – REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS In 2022/23, there was 1 PSHG grant completed in MAKI, (across Argyll and Bute, the total was 57). Total cost of the works was £17,350 of which PSHG covered £2,602. 4.10 ENERGY EFFICIENCY (ENERGY EFFICIENT SCOTLAND: AREA BASED SCHEME (EES:ABS)) There were 150 individual energy efficiency measures fitted across MAKI in 2022/23 via the EES:ABS programme. In total, 94 properties were improved across the area, at a total cost of £720,698. Grant aid in support of this work amounted to £616,631. MAKI Rates data as at 01.03.23 Number of self-catering properties Islay, Jura & Colonsay 274 Mid Argyll 277 Kintyre (including Gigha) 131 MAKI TOTAL 682 PSHG ADAPTATION COMPLETIONS 2022 -2023 HMA Grant Value Works Value ADAPTATION INSTALLED Ramp Stair lift Access Hoist Bathroom Adaptation Wash and Dry Unit External Drainage Collection Kintyre £21,315.67 £25,405.84 0 1 1 0 3 0 0 Mid Argyll £53,819.45 £66,695.56 0 1 1 0 7 1 1 Islay, Jura & Colonsay £34,876.75 £40,488.50 1 1 3 0 1 0 0 TOTALS £110,011.87 £132,589.90 1 3 5 0 11 1 1 Page 87
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Current estimates of Fuel Poverty are based on Home Analytics data (Scottish figure sourced from The Scottish Fuel Poverty Advisory Panel):- Area Likelihood of Households in Fuel Poverty Extreme Fuel Poverty Islay, Jura and Colonsay 35% 40% Kintyre 30% 24% Mid Argyll 27% 29% Argyll and Bute 30% 25% Scotland (SHCS Figure) 34% 23% 4.11 LOCAL HOUSING STRATEGY (LHS) 2022-2027 As the strategic housing authority for Argyll and Bute, the Council has a statutory duty to develop, implement and monitor a Local Housing Strategy over a five-year planning cycle, based on a robust and credible Housing Need and Demand Assessment (HNDA) for the area. Following completion of the previous Argyll and Bute LHS (2016-2021) last year, a comprehensive revision and update of the strategy has been approved by the council and was formally launched in April 2022. The planning process was based on a robust process of consultation and stakeholder engagement, which has been acknowledged as an exemplar model for other local authorities by the Scottish Government, the CHMA, and the Scottish Housing Network LHS Forum. The revised HNDA was approved as “robust and credible” by the Scottish Government’s CHMA in 2021, and this has informed the revised Housing Supply Targets set out in the new LHS. These targets are based on a positive demographic and economic growth scenario for Argyll and Bute and include ambitious and challenging Housing Supply Targets for the Mid Argyll, Kintyre, and Islay, Jura and Colonsay HMAs over the next 5 years and beyond. The Local Housing Strategy is subject to annual updates and the 2023 update can be found in the Housing Strategy pages of the Council website (https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2023LHSupdate ) 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 This report provides the detail of the Council Housing Services team activity in the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islands area and an overview of the progress achieved with the Local Housing Strategy Action Plan. There are a variety of housing issues within the area which are being tackled by Housing Services and partner agencies with the aim of delivering a functioning housing system which meets the needs of the communities we serve. The scale of the challenge is shown in statistical evidence and the declaration of the Housing Emergency and the subsequent Housing Emergency Summit has shown that many concerns are common across Page 88
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agencies and communities. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy - Complies with approved SHIP and Local Housing Strategy. 6.2 Financial - none arising from this report. 6.3 Legal - we have a statutory duty to deliver statutory housing functions. 6.4 HR – none. 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: positive in terms of delivering affordable housing. 6.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics – none. 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty - positive in terms of delivering affordable housing. 6.5.3 Islands – positive in terms of delivering affordable housing on the islands. 6.6 Climate Change – the strategy and housing service deliver positive impacts for energy efficiency and climate change. 6.7 Risk – none. 6.8 Customer Service – none. 6.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – the housing activity described in the report will deliver affordable housing for families with children Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director with the responsibility for Development and Economic Growth Councillor Robin Currie, Policy Lead for Strategic Development January 2024 For further information contact: Fergus Murray, Head of Development and Economic Growth fergus.murray@argyll-bute.gov.uk Douglas Whyte, Team Lead – Housing Strategy douglas.whyte@argyll-bute.gov.uk APPENDICES Appendix 1 – Extract from LHS 2022- 2027 (data as of 2020) Islay, Jura & Colonsay Appendix 2 – Extract from LHS 2022 - 2027 (data as of 2020) Kintyre Appendix 3 – Extract from LHS 2022 - 2027 (data as of 2020) Mid Argyll Page 89
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Appendix 1 – Extract from LHS 2022 - 2027 (data as of 2020) Islay, Jura & Colonsay ISLAY, JURA & COLONSAY HMA combines the three distinct islands for strategic planning purposes. The overall population is estimated to have declined by 3% over the last five years, although individual island trends have varied. The combined total number of households for the three islands conversely appears to have increased by almost 6% suggesting increasing numbers of smaller and single-person households. The islands are not particularly self-contained housing markets with less than half (49%) of house sales going to local purchasers; and 2.4% of purchasers originating elsewhere in the authority area. Affordability is a major issue, with one of the highest price-to-income ratios in Argyll and Bute, at 9.0, and well above the standard affordability threshold. Since 2015 there has been an increase in the total number of dwellings (over 3% growth), particularly with a number of new build developments recently and ongoing on islay; but also small-scale pipeline proposals for Colonsay and Jura. Currently the islands account for 5% of the total stock in the authority. However, 16% of the stock comprises second/holiday homes or long-term vacant properties and is consequently unavailable to meet local need. In 2020 there were around 505 social rented homes across the islands which is an increase of over 14% in the sector during the last 5 years. Numerically, waiting lists may be small however turnover in the stock is also limited, therefore the pressure ratio is currently one of the highest in Argyll & Bute, with 7 applicants for every available let. Key issues for Islay, Jura & Colonsay HMA: • Further developments of affordable housing will benefit the sustainability and economic growth of the island communities. • Tackling fuel poverty and improving energy efficiency are priorities. • Ensuring appropriate specialist provision is available to meet the requirements of those with particular needs will also be important. Population Households Dwellings Ineffective Stock (%) RSL Stock Waiting List Applicants RSL Lets (2019/20) Pressure Ratio Lower Quartile House Price Lower Quartile Income LQ Affordability Ratio 3,344 1,740 2,180 16% 505 186 27 7:1 £136,500 £15,208 9.0 Islay, Jura & Colonsay Page 90
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Appendix 2 – Extract from LHS 2022 - 2027 (data as of 2020) Kintyre KINTYRE HMA covers the Kintyre peninsula south of Tarbert and for planning purposes also incorporates the Isle of Gigha. It is actually the second most contained Housing Market within the authority; 64% of all house sales are to local residents and less than 15% of sales are to purchasers from elsewhere in Scotland, the lowest rate of any HMA. Although local household incomes are amongst the lowest in the authority area, so too are average house prices and consequently, while a proportion of local residents are unable to afford on the open market, the affordability ratio is less excessive than many other areas. Kintyre accounts for 9% of the total dwelling stock in the authority, and there was an overall increase in the stock of 8% over the last five years, after a period of relative stagnation previously. The area also has a relatively low level of ineffective stock, though at 11% of the total this is still well above national levels. In 2020, there were 1,084 RSL homes in this area accounting for around 13% of Argyll & Bute’s total stock of social rented housing. Turnover is fairly healthy relative to the waiting list, and supply and demand therefore are reasonably balanced, however further development in this area would support regenaration and positive economic growth. Key issues for Kintyre HMA: • The focus in this area remains on repairing, maintaining, improving and managing existing stock; but there is scope for some judicious new build developments in line with the repopulation and growth agendas for the area. • Tackling fuel poverty and improving energy efficiency remain priorities. • The provision of Housing Options advice and information; Tenancy Support; and ensuring that sufficient specialist provision remains available to meet the requirements of those with particular needs will also be important. Kintyre Population Households Dwellings Ineffective Stock (%) RSL Stock Waiting List Applicants RSL Lets (2019/20) Pressure Ratio Lower Quartile House Price Lower Quartile Income LQ Affordability Ratio 7,339 3,823 4,171 11% 1,084 121 86 1:1 £56,938 £12,449 4.6 Page 91
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Appendix 3 – Extract from LHS 2022 - 2027 (data as of 2020) Mid Argyll MID ARGYLL HMA stretches from Inveraray to Lochgilphead and Tarbert and is the centre for much of the public sector employment opportunities in the authority, including Council headquarters. Only 54% of house sales in the area are to local residents (a significant drop in self-containment since the previous HNDA), but almost 9% were to purchasers from elsehwere in Argyll & Bute, one of the highest rates of internal movement within the authority. 20% of purchasers come from elsewhere in Scotland and over 16% originate elsewhere in the UK. This area tends to have higher than average income levels and consequently the price-to-income affordability ratio is slightly lower than most other HMAs. The total number of dwellings has increased by 2.4% between 2015 and 2020. Currently the area accounts for over 12% of the authority total. However, around 13% of the stock comprises second/holiday homes and long-term vacant properties and is therefore unavailable to meet local needs. In 2020 there were 1,033 RSL homes in the area, 12% of the sector total for Argyll & Bute. While turnover is relatively healthy in the RSL stock, around 9% of the total waiting list is seeking to be rehoused here and over14% of homelessness is located in this HMA. However, HNDA analysis suggested that less than 7% of backlog need is located in Mid Argyll. MID ARGYLL Population 9,123 Households 4,614 Dwellings 5,659 Ineffective Stock (%) 13% RSL Stock 1,033 Waiting List Applicants 221 RSL Lets (2019/20) 110 Pressure Ratio 2:1 Lower Quartile House Price £85,000 Lower Quartile Income £16,507 LQ Affordability Ratio 5:1 Key issues for Mid Argyll HMA: • A strategic programme of new build affordable housing will help to sustain economic growth and address unmet need in the area. • The provision of Housing Options advice and information; targeted Tenancy Support; and assistance to tackle fuel poverty and improve energy efficiency; and ensuring sufficient specialist provision is available to meet the requirements of those with particular needs will also remain key targets. Page 92
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 28 February 2024 2023/24 Active Travel Progress Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1. This report provides an update to Members on the progress made in 2023/24 in relation to active travel projects in the MAKI Area, informs Members of the significant changes in Scottish Government active travel funding and seeks continued support for the projects and wider active travel measures from Members. 1.2. Active travel encompasses accessible, everyday Walking, Mobility Assistance and child prams (sometime collectively termed “Wheeling”) and Cycling. The focus of active travel is on accessible provision including those with mobility impairments. 1.3. The Council’s Active Travel Team, 1.7 Full Time Equivalent employees, is part of the Strategic Transport Team within the Development and Economic Growth Service. No Council funding is currently received by the Active Travel Team. All project costs, including internal staff costs, have to be funded via successfully securing highly competitive external challenge funds. 1.4. The Active Travel Team work with communities, internal and external stakeholders across Argyll and Bute to develop and deliver active travel projects which provide new/improved accessible infrastructure (e.g. paths, cycle lanes) and behaviour change (e.g. access to bikes, walking/cycle training, promotional activities). 1.5. In 2023/24 to date, the Active Travel Team secured £2.56M external funding for the development and delivery of a total of 23 projects across Argyll and Bute. These included 4 Argyll and Bute wide projects, valued at £155,000 in 23/24 and 12 projects specific to the MAKI area, with a 23/24 value of £822,000. 1.6. The Active Travel Team work to source and secure highly competitive funding from a range of sources, the main of which are Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone (PFE) Programme (administered by Sustrans), the Scottish Government’s Cycling, Walking and Safer Routes (CWSR) fund and Delivery Resource Fund, Paths for All Smarter Choices Smarter Places (SCSP) programme, Transport Scotland’s Active Travel Transformation Fund (ATTF), Page 93 Agenda Item 10
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and HITRANS Regional Active Travel Fund. Further funding has been secured for some projects via local community organisations and from willing businesses. It is recognised at a national level that the Active Travel Team in Argyll and Bute Council secure significantly more funding, and subsequently deliver more projects, than similar staffed teams in other Local Authorities and/or local authorities with similar populations. 1.7. Transport Scotland have informed Officers that, as of 24/25, the funding model for active travel will change. The primary change will be the reallocation of the significant funding currently disbursed via third-sector organisations (such as Sustrans or Paths for All) and, to a lesser extent Transport Scotland (e.g. CWSR), to individual Local Authority block grants and a single Transport Scotland controlled Active Travel Infrastructure Fund (ATIF). This will be undertaken incrementally over a 2 year transition period. 1.8. Transitional arrangements for infrastructure design and construction are understood by Officers to be: • 24/25 a proportion of the Scottish Government’s active travel funding will be allocated to Local Authority block grants with the remainder remaining as challenge funding, in particular in the PFE Programme (administered by Sustrans) and Transport Scotland’s ATIF fund. Transport Scotland have stated that failure to expend the block grant allocation on appropriate active travel projects will negatively affect the Council’s opportunity to secure additional funding from the ATIF. The Scottish Government’s budget commits a total of £220M to active travel in 24/25. • 25/26, those Local Authorities which chose (in 24/25) to expend the full amount of active travel funding in their block grant on appropriate active travel projects will receive an increase in their block grant allowance for active travel, with a smaller percentage of the overall funding being available via challenge funds following the closure of the PFE programme (forecast for December 2025). The Scottish Government has set an objective of committing 10% of the 25/26 transport budget to active travel, estimated to be c.£320M. • 26/27 onwards the challenge funding available will be solely focused on assisting Local Authorities with the cost of delivering very highly ambitious active travel projects, as active travel infrastructure funding for smaller projects will be included within block grants of those Local Authorities which have chosen in 24/25 and 25/26 to dedicate it to active travel. 1.9. Transitional arrangement for behaviour change is understood by Officers to be the transfer of the majority of the Scottish Government’s behaviour change funding in 24/25 onwards from third sector organisations to the Regional Transport Partnerships (RTPs). This will enable the development and delivery of behaviour change programmes/activities which are tailored to the specific requirements of each RTP area. A small element of the Scottish Government’s behaviour change funding will be retained to continue campaigns/cycle training Page 94
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programmes which are deemed to be most effective when delivered at a national scale. 1.10. Separately, Officers are working to develop an Active Travel Strategy (ATS) for Argyll and Bute which will set out the policy and strategic context for the development and delivery of active travel across the whole of Argyll and Bute. Subsequent to this, an Active Travel Delivery Plan (ATDP) will be developed which will identify the specific projects to be developed in order to achieve the ambition set in the ATS. 1.11. Active Travel can offer significant benefits to the area: • Access to essential services and employment: In MAKI 22% of households (2,193 households) do not have access to a motor vehicle and are therefore reliant on public transport and active travel modes. • Health benefits: being more active reduces the risk of premature morbidity and death, particularly from diseases related to inactivity. • Economics: People who travel to shops by walking and/or cycling have a higher monthly spend than people who travel to shops by private car. • Improving safety: reduces injuries from car collisions. 1.12. A number of active travel projects link to schools, offering the opportunity to increase the numbers of pupils, parents and staff choosing to walk, cycle or wheel to school. While the main benefits are improved physical and mental health, where new active travel infrastructure creates a safe route to school where one did not previously exist it could reduce the requirement to provide school transport on safety grounds, thereby creating a revenue saving to the school transport budget. RECOMMENDATIONS 1.13. It is recommended that the Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands members: 1.13.1. Welcome the progress made to date across a significant number of active travel projects by the small Active Travel Team. 1.13.2. Support the continuation of the projects and the submission of future funding applications to external challenge funds (while these still exist) to continue to develop design and construction stages in order to deliver these projects. 1.13.3. Support the allocation of the active travel funding element in the Council’s 24/25 block grant to the development and delivery of appropriate active travel projects, including those already underway in MAKI. Page 95
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1.13.4. Instruct Officers to continue to identify and develop new active travel projects to benefit local residents, businesses and communities. Page 96
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 28 February 2024 2023/24 Active Travel Progress Report 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1. This report provides an update to Members on the progress made in 2023/24 in relation to active travel projects in the MAKI Area and seeks continued support for the projects from Members. 2.2. Active travel encompasses accessible, everyday Walking, Mobility Assistance and child prams (sometime collectively termed “Wheeling”) and Cycling. The focus of active travel is on accessible provision including those with mobility impairments. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1. It is recommended that the Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands members: 3.1.1. Welcome the progress made to date across a significant number of active travel projects by the small Active Travel Team. 3.1.2. Support the continuation of the projects and the submission of future funding applications to external challenge funds (while these still exist) to continue to develop design and construction stages in order to deliver these projects. 3.1.3. Support the allocation of the active travel funding element in the Council’s 24/25 block grant to the development and delivery of appropriate active travel projects, including those already underway in MAKI. 3.1.4. Instruct Officers to continue to identify and develop new active travel projects to benefit local residents, businesses and communities. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1. The Council’s Active Travel Team, 1.7 FTE (Full Time Equivalent employees), is part of the Strategic Transport Team within the Development and Economic Growth Service. No Council funding is currently received by the Active Travel Page 97
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Team. All project costs, including internal staff costs, have to be funded via successfully securing highly competitive external challenge funds. 4.2. It is recognised at a national level that the Active Travel Team in Argyll and Bute Council secure significantly more funding, and subsequently deliver more projects, than similar staffed teams in other Local Authorities and/or local authorities with similar populations. 4.3. The Active Travel Team work with communities, internal and external stakeholders across Argyll and Bute to develop and deliver active travel projects which provide new/improved accessible infrastructure (e.g. paths, cycle lanes) and behaviour change (e.g. access to bikes, walking/cycle training, promotional activities). 4.4. In 2023/24 to date, the Active Travel Team secured £2.56M external funding for the development and delivery of a total of 22 projects across Argyll and Bute, including 4 Argyll and Bute wide projects, valued at £155,000 in 23/24 and 12 projects specific to the MAKI area, with a 23/24 value of £822,000. Further details of these projects is presented in Appendix 1. Future Funding Model 4.5. Transport Scotland informed Officers on 23 January 2024 that, as of 24/25, the funding model for active travel will change. At the time of writing, Transport Scotland have stated that they are unable to confirm the value of specific funding streams for 24/25 as these are still subject to agreement with COSLA. It is understood the primary change will be the reallocation of the significant funding currently disbursed via third-sector organisations (such as Sustrans or Paths for All) and, to a lesser extent Transport Scotland (e.g. CWSR) to individual Local Authority block grants and a single Transport Scotland challenge fund, the Active Travel Infrastructure Fund (ATIF). This will be undertaken incrementally over a 2 year transition period. 4.6. Provisional transitional arrangements for infrastructure design and construction are understood by Officers to be: • 24/25 the allocation of a proportion of the Scottish Government’s active travel funding to Local Authority block grants with the remainder remaining as challenge funding, in particular in the PFE Programme (administered by Sustrans) and Transport Scotland’s ATIF. The split of allocation the funding is understood to still be in negation between Transport Scotland and COSLA with Transport Scotland expecting to confirm values in early 24/25. Transport Scotland have also stated that failure to expend the block grant allocation on appropriate active travel work will negatively affect the Council’s opportunity to secure additional funding from the ATIF. • 25/26, those Local Authorities which chose (in 24/25) to expend the full amount of active travel funding in their block grant on appropriate active Page 98
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travel projects will receive an increase in their block grant allowance for active travel, with a smaller percentage of the overall funding being available via challenge funds including the closure of the PFE programme (forecast for December 2025). • From 26/27 onwards the challenge funding available (e.g. ATIF) will be solely focused on assisting Local Authorities with the cost of delivering very highly ambitious active travel projects, as the active travel infrastructure funding for smaller projects will be included within the block grants of those Local Authorities which chose to dedicate it to active travel in 24/25 and 25/26. 4.7. Behaviour change funding will be transferred from third sector organisations to the Regional Transport Partnerships (RTPs) in 24/25 onwards. This will enable the development and delivery of behaviour change programmes/activities which are tailored to the specific requirements of each RTP area. A small element of the Scottish Government’s behaviour change funding will be retained to continue campaigns/programmes which are deemed to be most effective when delivered at a national scale. Officers have started to engage with our RTPs (HITRANS and SPT) in order to understand and influence the future plans for the delivery of behaviour change projects. Current (2023/24) Funding Model 4.8. The Active Travel Team work to source and secure highly competitive funding from a range of sources, the main of which are Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone (PFE) Programme (administered by Sustrans), the Scottish Government’s Cycling, Walking and Safer Routes (CWSR) fund and Delivery Resource Fund, Paths for All Smarter Choices Smarter Places (SCSP) programme, Transport Scotland’s Active Travel Transformation Fund (ATTF), and HITRANS Regional Active Travel Fund. Further funding has been secured for some projects via local community organisations and from willing businesses. It is recognised at a national level that the Active Travel Team in Argyll and Bute Council secure significantly more funding, and subsequently delivery more projects, than similar staffed teams in other Local Authorities and/or local authorities with similar populations. 4.9. The primary external funding route for active travel infrastructure design is Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone (PFE) programme (which Sustrans are paid to administer). The PFE Programme is a competitive challenge fund structured around 8 project stages; with the 32 local authorities, 7 regional transport partnerships, two national parks and numerous community groups across Scotland competing against each other to secure the funding each project requires. In 23/24, the Active Travel Team secured £1.7M from the PFE Programme. It has been announced that the PFE Programme will by wound down with a final closure date of December 2025. Page 99
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4.10. A minimum of three new competitive funding submissions are required to complete a project using PFE funding, with competitive applications required, as a minimum, prior to Stage 0 (Strategic Definition), Stage 3 (Developed Design) and Stage 5 (Construction). The full project stages are (0) Strategic Definition, (1) Preparation and Brief, (2) Concept Design), (3) Developed Design, (4) Technical Design, (5) Construction, (6) Handover & Close Out and (7) In Use. 4.11. The Scottish Government Cycling, Walking and Safer Routes (CWSR) fund is an annual ring-fenced fund which provides the opportunity for Local Authorities to identify and deliver lower value active travel infrastructure without the level of complexity and time required by the PFE route. In 23/24, the Active Travel Team secured £551,000 from the CWSR fund. It is understood by Officers that the CWSR fund will terminate in March 2024. 4.12. The Smarter Choices Smarter Places (SCSP) programme is run by Paths for All and provides funding for behaviour change projects. Behaviour change projects are designed to influence behaviour and choice, rather than provide new infrastructure. In 23/24, the Active Travel Team secured £80,000 from the SCSP programme. It has been announced that the SCSP programme will terminate in March 2024. 4.13. Transport Scotland’s Active Travel Transformation Fund (ATTF) was launched in 23/24 and focuses on supporting Local Authorities, RTPs and National Parks with the additional cost of constructing very ambitious, high-quality active travel projects. Projects must be fully construction ready prior to submission to the ATTF. Officers submitted two applications to the 23/24 ATTF, including for the Bowmore – Bridgend Path on Islay, but, while these were shortlisted on the reserve list, were unsuccessful in securing funding in 23/24. The application deadline for 24/25 projects to ATTF is late January 2024 and, at the time of writing, Officers are developing submissions including resubmitting the Bowmore – Bridgend Path project. 4.14. HITRANS Regional Active Travel Fund has previously supported a number of projects in MAKI, including £450,000 towards Phase 1 of the Ralston Road Cycleway project in Campbeltown (completed summer 2023). As HITRANS have a relatively small budget compared to the geographical area covered and require to support five local authorities, Argyll and Bute’s 23/24 allocation was substantially lower than in previous years at £25,000. Benefits of Active Travel 4.15. 22% of households (2,193 households) in the MAKI area do not have access to any motor vehicles (2011 census) and are therefore reliant on public transport and active travel methods to move around. Page 100
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4.16. Transport poverty is defined as households and individuals who spend a significant percentage of their income to make the journeys they need (UK Government, 2019). In MAKI, where a higher than Scottish average of the population have low incomes (SIMD, 2020), the cost of travel is a significant barrier to a substantial number of the community. This is highlighted by the higher than Scottish average number of households have multiple cars but shorter than Scottish average journey distances to work/study (2011 census), indicating that a significant number of households own multiple cars to travel short distances. Walking, wheeling (mobility aids/child prams) and cycling are much cheaper than running a car or using public transport, and improving opportunities to choose to walk/cycle for essential journeys can improve access to essential services, reduce social exclusion and increase opportunities to access education and employment. 4.17. Health benefits of enabling individuals and communities to choose to travel more actively are well documented and a significant body of research has identified that having active, healthy lifestyles helps to reduce fragility and reduce falls as individuals age, and increase social inclusion and accessibility. In particular, being more active reduces the risk of premature morbidity and death, particularly from diseases related to inactivity including cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, stroke, dementia, type 2 diabetes, hip fractures and cancer. Active travel also has significant mental health benefits including increasing social inclusion and reducing depression. This means those who choose to be more active are less likely to require social care services in later life which could result in a future saving to the Council or HSCP (DfT, 2014; CIHT, 2016; Centre for Mental Health, 2016; Scottish Government, 2018; Dunoon Shaping Places for Wellbeing, 2022; World Health Organisation, 2022; Public Health Scotland, 2022; Public Health Scotland, 2023). 4.18. Economics: People who travel to shops actively by walking and/or cycling, while they spend less per individual visit, make more visits a month and have a higher monthly spend than people who travel to shops by private car (Pedestrian Pound, 2018). Improving public realm and routes to shops for pedestrians and cyclists can increase trade by up to 40% (Pedestrian Pound, 2018). 4.19. Improving safety through good design, in particular to protect more vulnerable individuals, pedestrians and cyclists, reduces injuries from car collisions (Public Health Scotland, 2022). Where people choose to travel actively to make a journey instead of using a private car, this reduces the number of car movements which makes streets cleaner, improves air quality, reduces traffic congestion and reduces demand for space to park in key hotspots. 4.20. A number of the active travel projects link to schools, thereby offering the opportunity to increase the numbers of pupils, parents and staff choosing to walk, cycle or wheel to school. While the main benefits are improved physical Page 101
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and mental health, such provision may also generate a saving on school transport provision. Argyll and Bute Council provide free school transport to some pupils on safety grounds. This is where pupils live less than the legislative minimum distance from school to qualify for free school transport provision, but where there is no safe active travel route to school. Where new active travel infrastructure creates a safe route to school where one did not previously exist it could reduce the requirement to provide school transport on safety grounds, thereby creating a revenue saving. Design guidance 4.21. It is understood that adherence to the latest design criteria for active travel (e.g. Cycle by Design for cycle projects) will continue to be a requirement. However, the removal of national third-sector organisations from control of the main active travel funding steams should enable Officers to apply the guidance in a more flexible and specific manner to local circumstances. Utilising adopted design guidance provides a clear framework for development of designs which are appropriate, accessible, attractive and safe. Active Travel Strategy (ATS) 4.22. Separately, Officers are working to develop an Active Travel Strategy (ATS) for Argyll and Bute which will set out the policy and strategic context for the development and delivery of active travel across the whole of Argyll and Bute. Subsequent to this, an Active Travel Delivery Plan (ATDP) will be developed which will identify the specific projects to be developed in order to achieve the ambition set in the ATS. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1. Significant changes to the funding model in 2024/25 and 2025/26 will create opportunities for active travel projects to focus on local priorities, rather than projects which meet the aspirations and objectives of national organisations. However, continued delivery of new and improved active travel opportunities to the residents, businesses, communities and visitors in the MAKI area will require Members to commit the additional active travel funding allocation in the 24/25 Council Block Grant to the development and delivery of active travel projects. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1. Policy Completion of this project will support the Council’s SOA outcomes 2: We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth and 5: People live active, healthier and independent lives. The project also supports achievement of the Scottish Government’s objectives set out in the Cycling Action Plan for Scotland (CAPS) Page 102
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and Let’s Get Scotland Walking - The National Walking Strategy. 6.2. Financial The change in approach to the provision of active travel funding by the Scottish Government from external challenge funding to including it within the Council’s block grant will require Members to decide to allocate the funding to develop and deliver active travel projects. Improved active travel provision could reduce the requirement to provide school transport on safety grounds, thereby creating a revenue saving. There is strong evidence that people who are more active, for example by walking or cycling, have better physical and mental health and are less likely to require social care services in later life which could result in a future saving to the Council or HSCP. 6.3. Legal Continued input will be required from Legal Services to support any land acquisition required for the creation of active travel routes. 6.4. HR None. 6.5. Fairer Scotland Duty: 6.5.1 Equalities Provision of new and improved active travel infrastructure and behaviour change options will provide enhanced opportunities for residents and visitors to choose to travel more sustainably and actively by walking, wheeling and cycling. All new active travel routes are designed to be accessible and DDA compliant to provide a safe and accessible route for those with mobility aids including wheelchairs and parents/guardians with a child’s pram or buggy. 6.5.2 Socio- economic Duty New and improved active travel routes will improve access to essential services, retail, leisure and employment opportunities for local residents, with studies demonstrating those who travelled actively had a higher monthly spend in local businesses than those who travel via motorised transport. The routes will also offer opportunities for individuals to travel for leisure, again encouraging spend in local businesses connected by the routes. 6.5.3 Islands A number of the active travel projects are based on islands, thereby providing the same opportunities for island residents/visitors to choose to travel actively as those on the mainland. Where visitors choose to travel actively in leu of taking a motor vehicle this can Page 103
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help reduce demand for the overstretched vehicle capacity on the ferry services. 6.6. Climate Change Active Travel is the least carbon intensive mode of travel. Providing the opportunity for residents and visitors to consider an alternative to having to use a private car to travel will help lower Argyll and Bute’s carbon footprint. 6.7. Risk There is a reputational risk to the Council if the projects are not completed within a reasonable timeframe. 6.8. Customer Services None. 6.9. The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Active travel is the most accessible mode of travel to young people, as it does not have any minimum age limits, does not require any form of licence, is free to use and is not tied to any fixed timetable. All new active travel infrastructure is designed to be utilised by an unaccompanied 12 year old. Engagement with school pupils indicates that the vast majority of pupils strongly support the provision of new active travel infrastructure, even where it would adversely impact other modes of transport. Executive Director with the responsibility for Development and Economic Growth: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads and Transport: Cllr Andrew Kain 05 January 2024 For further information contact: Colin Young Strategic Transportation Delivery Officer colin.young@argyll-bute.gov.uk 01546 604275 Appendix 1: 2024/25 Active Travel Projects Page 104
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Appendix 1: 2024/25 Projects Project Outline Programme Detail Active Travel Promotional Campaign Spring 2024: launch and 1st campaign 24/25: continue campaign Future: Creation of a new sustainable travel (walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport) promotional brand “Better Journeys” and develop a promotional campaign to raise awareness of opportunities to travel actively and sustainably across Argyll and Bute. External funding has been retained within the Council by working with the Council’s Communications Team to develop the brand, campaign materials including posters and social media clips and prepare to launch the campaign in spring 2024. Beat the Street Game 14 Feb – 27 Mar 2024 Beat the Street is a 6-week game run by Intelligent Health and funded by Paths for All Smarter Choices Smarter Places, supported by Transport Scotland. The Argyll and Bute Beat the Streets game is being run jointly with North Ayrshire Council between 14 Feb and 27 Mar 2024, and within Argyll and Bute includes the settlements of Helensburgh, Cardross, Rhu and Kilcreggan; Dunoon, Toward, Strone and Sandbank; Rothesay and Port Bannatyne; Campbeltown, Carradale, Drumlemble and Southend. Beat the Street is a free, fun, walking, cycling and wheeling game which gets communities, school pupils, and their families out and about in the local area, having fun and keeping healthy. It’s designed to get children and communities moving by helping people to make small changes, such as walking or cycling to school every day, to improve physical and mental health and help embed physical activity into everyday life. Free game packs have been delivered to primary schools within the areas above, including a contactless game card for each Page 105
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pupil. Additional game cards can be collected by members of the public from public distribution locations such as libraries in the game areas. Players use contactless game cards to hover over the Beat Boxes which have been installed on lamp posts in the game areas and score points as they travel around. There is also a smartphone app which players over 13 years old can download. For further information please see: https://www.beatthestreet.me/activenation/ Smart phone app promotion Summer 2023: 1st campaign Summer 2024: 2nd campaign Future: potential to repeat campaign annually Promotional campaign to raise awareness and use of the five existing active travel smartphone apps (Campbeltown, Dunoon, Helensburgh, Oban and Rothesay). The first year of the campaign in summer 2023 increased downloads of the free to access apps by 74%. Pedestrian and Cycle Counters Ongoing Argyll and Bute Council operate a network of automated pedestrian and cycle counters with 36 installed across the Council area. The data from these counters is used to monitor changes in pedestrian/cycle numbers, including from new routes, and by partners to support compilation of national statistics. The data is also publicly available via a dedicated website. Bowmore and Island Walking and Cycling Smartphone App Summer 2024: launch app Creation of a smartphone app for Bowmore and the wider island of Islay. The app will include local interest trails (e.g. a heritage trail) as well as interactive family focused “eye-spy” style games and active travel route map(s). The app will use a combination of geofencing and virtual reality to immerse users in the trails in a way which is not possible using more traditional mediums. Lochgilphead & Ardrishaig Walking & Cycling Smartphone App Autumn 2024: launch app Creation of a smartphone app for Lochgilphead and Ardrishaig. The app will include local interest trails (e.g. a heritage trail) as well as interactive family focused “eye-spy” style games and active travel route map(s). The app will use a combination of Page 106
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geofencing and virtual reality to immerse users in the trails in a way which is not possible using more traditional mediums. Bikes back to the community 2022/23: provided 65 bikes to community 2023/24: ongoing The Bikes back to the Community bike recycling scheme is delivered in partnership with local community group, ACT Now. The Bikes back to the Community scheme allows Mid-Argyll residents apply for a free bicycle, with preference given to those who can demonstrate a reduction in car use and/or inability to access a bike commercially. The bicycles provided are safe and suitable, and follow up support from ACT Now staff and volunteers is available to ensure the bicycle is fully utilised. The project returned 65 bikes to the community in 2022/23 and is forecast to exceed this in 2023/24. Lochgilphead Front Green to Crinan Canal Active Travel Route Spring 2024: complete concept design 2024/25: developed and technical design 2025/26: secure construction funding and permissions 2026/27 – 2027/28: construction This project will deliver an active travel route that links the Lochgilphead Front Green with the Crinan Canal (NCN 78) and to produce a concept design for the best route option linking Lochgilphead Front Green (town centre) and the Crinan Canal (NCN 78). The new route would strategically align with the design of a new active travel route between Lochgilphead Town Centre and the Lochgilphead Joint Campus, thereby creating a safe and direct active travel link between Ardrishaig, the Canal, Lochgilphead and the Joint Campus, the Sports Centre, Kilmory Industrial Estate and Argyll and Bute Council HQ. Lochgilphead Town Centre to Joint Campus Active Travel Route 2020 – 22: concept design 2022 - summer 2024: complete developed and technical design 2024/25: secure construction This project will deliver a new active travel route linking lochgilphead town centre and Front Green with the Lochgilphead Joint Campus. The project will deliver numerous road safety and street scape improvements. The route strategically aligns with the design of a new active travel route Lochgilphead Front Green and the Crinan Canal, which together create a safe and direct active travel link between Ardrishaig, Page 107
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funding and permissions 2025/26 – 2026/27: construction of route the Canal, Lochgilphead and the Joint Campus, the Sports Centre, Kilmory Industrial Estate and Argyll and Bute Council HQ. A83 Tarbert to Kennacraig Active Travel Route 2023 – 2024/25: feasibility and route identification 2025/26: concept design 2026/27 – 2027/28: developed and technical design 2028/29 – 2030/31: construction The project will develop an off-road shared use path linking Tarbert (main town in mid-Kintyre) and strategic ferry terminal at Kennacraig and the quiet B8001 which links to the Claonaig – Arran ferry. The section of route between Tarbert and Kennacraig is only linked by the very busy and high speed A83 Trunk Road which has suffered a number of serious crashes involving pedestrians and/or cyclists. Working closely with the Community Council and the wider community, school pupils, Transport Scotland, landowners and local businesses, this will be a community focused project to ensure the final design best suits local needs and environment. The route will link to the key transport hub at Kennacraig; provide the opportunity for pupils to walk/cycle to Primary / Secondary School at Tarbert and enable residents in the area to access services, retail, employment, church, graveyard and leisure facilities actively with the associated improvement in accessibility and health equality. The route will also serve the popular leisure 5 Ferries Route and Caledonia Way (ex-NCN78) named route, significantly improving safety by providing an alternative to the highest risk section of these routes. Campbeltown Limecraigs Road Cycleway 2024/25: secure land agreement and update designs 2025/26: construction of route Phase 2 of the Ralson Road/Meadows Avenue segregated cycleway and pedestrian improvements. The Limecraigs Road section will link the existing sections at Ralston Road/Meadows Avenue to The Cutting shared use path, which will provide a link to Campbeltown Town Centre. The Cutting & Quarry Green 2024/25: update designs and Phase 3 of the Campbeltown Active Travel Plans, including Page 108
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Path, Campbeltown construction upgrade of The Cutting shared use path and construction of a new cyclepath along Quarry Green to Hall St (A83) at the CALMAC ferry terminal. Campbeltown Esplanade and Kinloch Park Active Travel Improvemetns 2023 – summer 2024: concept design 2025/26 – 2026/27: developed and technical design 2027/28: construction Currently at initial feasibility stage, this project is examining options to improve active travel connectivity around the Esplanade, through Kinloch Park and on adjacent roads to improve active travel connectivity between the north side of Campbeltown and the Town Centre, Schools and other amenities. Bowmore to Bridgend Path Design, Islay 2019 – summer 2024: design process 2024/25 – 2026/27: construction Working in partnership with Islay Community Access Group (ICAG) to develop a walking/cycling route linking Bowmore to Bridgend, including the UHI Columba Gaelic Centre. At present there is no walking or cycling route linking Bowmore to Bridgend with the only option being a busy 60mph rural road with no footway. Creation of this path will increase access to Bowmore with its range of retail, leisure, employment opportunities, Bowmore Primary and Islay High School; as well as the community facilities at UHI Columba Gaelic Centre and the settlement of Bridgend with hotel, shop and visitor facilities at Islay House Square. North Islay Path 2024/25: concept design 2025/26 – 2026/27: developed and technical design 2027/28 – 2030/31: construction Working in partnership with Islay Community Access Group (ICAG) and the local community to develop a shared use path linking Port Askaig (ferry terminal) & important settlements of Keills (with Primary School), Ballygrant & Bridgend to enable residents and visitors the opportunity to choose to walk/cycle along the key route which is currently only served by the fast & busy A846 main road and does not have a footway or cycling facilities. The path will also join onto Bowmore - Bridgend Path, thereby providing a continuous, safe route linking Port Askaig to Page 109
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Bowmore. Craighouse to Corran Sands Active Travel Route, Jura 2023/24: concept design 2024/25 – 2025/26: developed and technical design 2026/27: construction Working closely with the community to develop plans for a route linking the existing community constructed Corran Path to the centre of the main settlement on Jura, Craighouse, as identified in the Community Action Plan. This route will also provide a safe route to the Small Isles Primary School, Jura Distillery, Jura Hotel, Jura Service Point, Community Shop, Community Hall, Church, Playpark and the majority of dwellings on Jura. Page 110
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 28 February 2024 LOCHGILPHEAD TO CRINAN CANAL ACTIVE TRAVEL ROUTE: CONCEPT DESIGN AND FUTURE EXTERNAL FUNDING 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1. This report provides an update to Members on the progress made to date on the Lochgilphead to Crinan Canal Active Travel Route, highlights the next steps and seeks support for the continuation of the project from Members. 1.2. A concept design has been produced for a preferred route alignment based on the findings of a feasibility study and route options appraisal that was completed in August 2023. 1.3. A public consultation on the proposed concept design was held between 11th and 28th September. The consultation received 99 responses, with 59% of respondents supportive of the proposal. 1.4. The Lochgilphead Community Council have confirmed that they fully support the proposal. 1.5. The preferred route alignment largely runs adjacent to the A83. Transport Scotland have confirmed they are happy in principle, but will require to approve the detailed design and technical design drawings before they can sign off on a design. 1.6. A short section of the proposed route is within the boundary of the Crinan Canal which is a Scheduled Monument and managed by Scottish Canals. Scottish Canals have indicated that they are supportive of the proposal. 1.7. A short section of the preferred option runs over land that is in private ownership. The landowners have been consulted but currently there is no legal agreement in place with the landowners to allow for the use/acquisition of their land to be used for the creation of the new route. 1.8. The funding for the feasibility study, options appraisal and concept design has come from Transport Scotland through the Sustrans administered Places for Everyone programme (PFE) which is a challenge fund that requires designs to adhere to strict design parameters in order for them to be considered by the PFE funding application assessment panels. 1.9. If members approve the progression of this project additional funding for the developed and technical design stages will be required. At present the best Page 111 Agenda Item 11
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route to access new funding for this project (and other active travel infrastructure projects) would be through the Transport Scotland PFE programme. RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands members: • Welcome the progress made to date. • Support the continuation of the project and the submission of a new PFE funding application for design stages 3-4 (Developed & Technical Design) to complete the design work required. Page 112
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH 28 February 2024 LOCHGILPHEAD TO CRINAN CANAL ACTIVE TRAVEL ROUTE: CONCEPT DESIGN AND FUTURE EXTERNAL FUNDING 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1. This report provides an update to Members on the progress made to date on the Lochgilphead to Crinan Canal Active Travel Route, highlights the next steps and seeks support for the project from Members. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Mid Argyll Kintyre and the Islands members: • Welcome the progress made to date. • Support the continuation of the project and the submission of a new PFE funding application for design stages 3-4 (Developed & Technical Design) to complete the design work required. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1. The Council’s Active Travel Team, 1.7 FTE (Full Time Equivalent employees), is part of the Strategic Transport Team within the Development and Economic Growth Service. No Council funding is currently received by the Active Travel Team. All project costs, including internal staff costs, have to be funded via successfully securing highly competitive external challenge funds. 4.2. In 2023/24 to date, the Active Travel Team secured £2.56M external funding for the development and delivery of a total of 22 projects across Argyll and Bute, including the Lochgilphead to Crinan Canal Active Travel Route. 4.3. Transport Scotland’s Places for Everyone (PFE) programme is structured around 8 project stages with a competitive challenge fund, with the 32 local authorities, 7 regional transport partnerships, two national parks and numerous community groups across Scotland competing against each other to secure the funding each project requires. 4.4. A minimum of three new competitive funding submissions are required to complete a project using PFE funding, with competitive applications required, as a minimum, prior to Stage 0 (Strategic Definition), Stage 3 (Developed Design) and Stage 5 (Construction). The project stages are (0) Strategic Definition, (1) Page 113
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Preparation and Brief, (2) Concept Design), (3) Developed Design, (4) Technical Design, (5) Construction, (6) Handover & Close Out and (7) In Use. 4.5. Lochgilphead Front Green to Crinan Canal Design Stage 0-2 (work completed to date) 4.5.1. An active travel route linking the Lochgilphead Front Green with the Crinan Canal was identified as a community aspiration through the 2016 Rethink the Link Charrette. 4.5.2. A preferred route was identified as part of a study carried out in 2020; however due to changes in design standards (Cycling by Design 2021), concerns raised by funders over estimated costs and changes to the funders requirements for active travel projects, the feasibility study and options appraisal was revisited in order to bring it in line with the new design principles and new design stage deliverable outputs required by the funders. 4.5.3. In 2022 the project was awarded PFE funding and Stantec were appointed as the consultant design team to progress the project through the new PFE 0-2 design stages and produce a concept design that adhered to the principles of Cycling by Design and that provided a route with as a high a level of service as was practicably possible. 4.5.4. The potential routes were split into several sections with each section having at least 2 route options to be considered prior to a preferred option being identified. 4.5.5. Through a series of workshops with key stakeholders, including Transport Scotland, Scottish Canals, Argyll and Bute Council and community organisations; the initial long list of options were scored against the Key Principles in Cycling by Design (Safety, Coherence, Directness, Comfort, Attractiveness and Adaptability) alongside the Deliverability and Maintainability of each option. 4.5.6. This initial appraisal recommended a preference for two sections of the route, namely (1) for a shared use path between the Front Green and the car park next to the Corran B&B and, (2) for the reinstatement of an old ramp from the A83 up to the canal that is currently overgrown. However no clear preference could identified for the section required to link these two sections. The options for this missing section were: 1. A causeway or bridge through the Corran Grazings. 2. An improved shared walking and cycling route to the south of the A83/A816 junction with full acquisition of the Corran B&B. 3. An improved shared walking and cycling route to the south of the A83/A816 junction with acquisition of some land that is within the Title of the Corran B&B. 4. A new road bridge with shared footway. Page 114
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4.5.7. These options were assessed using the Active Mode Appraisal Toolkit (AMAT); a tool published by the Department for Transport (England) for assessing the overall benefits and costs of proposed walking and cycling interventions 4.5.8. The AMAT appraisal identified that the preferred option for this section would be to improve the shared walking and cycling route south of the A83/A816 junction with acquisition of a short section of land that is within the Title of the Corran B&B. Land acquisition is required due to the width of the footway between the A83 and the Corran B&B currently being deemed too narrow to be considered as acceptable for a PFE project. Cycling by Design requires a shared use path with an anticipated level of use of less than 300 cyclist per hour (the lowest peak flow threshold used in the document) to have an absolute minimum width of 2.5 metres and the footway width at this section is under 2 metres for an extended length along a curve. Therefore in order to ensure the route provides as high a level of service as is practicable the width of the existing footway needs to be increased. Although the existing pedestrian bridge is also under 2.5m funders have agreed in principle that this structure will not be required to be replaced due to the short overall length and deliverability implications of replacing the bridge. 4.5.9. As the majority of the route runs adjacent to the A83 Trunk Road, Transport Scotland are the Roads Authority responsible for this asset. Transport Scotland have been involved in design workshops and although they cannot grant consent to the design until further detail is developed they are supportive in principle. 4.5.10.A short section of the new route looks to reinstate an old ramp onto the Crinan Canal. The Canal is a Scheduled Monument managed by Scottish Canals. Scottish Canals have been involved in design workshops and are supportive in principle. Scottish Canals have discussed the project with Historic Environment Scotland and if the project is to proceed it would require the formal consent from both these bodies. 4.5.11.The owners of the Corran B&B have been approached and kept informed of the project progress. They have raised concerns about how the project could negatively affect them and the operation of their business. If the project is to progress further investigatory technical survey work will be required to be carried out to help inform future discussion with the owner of the B&B. 4.5.12.A consultation on the concept design was held between 11th and 28th September 2023. The consultation received 99 responses, with 59% of respondents supportive of the preferred option. The comments that were unsupportive were largely due to a desire to see a route through the Corran Grazings which was estimated to cost over £5m. The Lochgilphead Community Council have confirmed that they fully support the current proposal. 4.6. Design Stage 3-4 4.6.1. A PFE funding application has been submitted to allow the project to progress onto design stages 3 and 4. This funding is a challenge fund open to all 32 local Page 115
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authorities and although the project has been funded for design stages 0-2 there is no guarantee that the project will be awarded PFE funding for 2024/25 to deliver design stages 3-4. It is expected that 2024/25 funding awards will be confirmed in Quarter 1 2024/25. 4.6.2. If the project is awarded additional funding for 2024/25 further discussion with the owners of the Corran B&B will be a priority. 4.6.3. If the project is not awarded 2024/25 PFE funding, Members have the options of allocating Council funding or the project will require to be paused awaiting funding or terminated. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1. A concept design for a new active travel route between the Lochgilphead Front Green and the Crinan Canal has been produced for consultation. The results from the consultation show that 59% of respondents were supportive of the concept design. 5.2. External funding from PFE has been sought for 2024/25 to progress the concept design through the design stages 3-4. However, award of this funding is not guaranteed. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1. Policy Completion of this project will support the Council’s SOA outcomes 2: We have infrastructure that supports sustainable growth and 5: People live active, healthier and independent lives. The project also supports achievement of the Scottish Government’s objectives set out in the Cycling Action Plan for Scotland (CAPS) and Let’s Get Scotland Walking - The National Walking Strategy. 6.2. Financial The design and land purchase will be funded by external competitive funding applications. The Council has not contributed any funding to design costs. There is strong evidence that people who are more active, for example by walking or cycling, have improved physical and mental health and are less likely to require social care services in later life which could result in a future saving to the Council or HSCP. 6.3. Legal Continued input will be required from Legal Services to support any land purchase. 6.4. HR None. 6.5. Fairer Scotland Duty: Page 116
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6.5.1 Equalities Completion of this project will provide enhanced opportunities for all between Lochgilphead and the Crinan Canal to travel more sustainably and actively by walking, wheeling and cycling. The route has been designed to be DDA compliant and will provide a safe and accessible route for those with mobility aids including wheelchairs and parents/guardians with a child’s pram or buggy. 6.5.2 Socio- economic Duty The route will improve access to essential services, retail, leisure and employment opportunities for local residents, with studies demonstrating those who travelled actively had a higher monthly spend in local businesses than those who travel via motorised transport. The path will also offer opportunities for individuals to travel for leisure, again encouraging spend in local businesses connected by the route. 6.5.3 Islands There are no adverse impacts. 6.6. Climate Change Active Travel is the least carbon intensive mode of travel. Providing the opportunity for residents and visitors to consider an alternative to having to use a private car to travel between these communities will help lower Argyll and Bute’s carbon footprint. 6.7. Risk There is a reputational risk to the Council if the project is not completed within a reasonable timeframe. 6.8. Customer Services None. 6.9. The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Completion of this project will provide enhanced facilities designed to be suitable for use by an unaccompanied 12 year old. The route has been designed to be DDA compliant and will provide a safe and accessible route for children with disabilities Executive Director with the responsibility for Development and Economic Growth: Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads and Transport: Cllr Andrew Kain 08 January 2024 Page 117
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For further information contact: Douglas Grierson, Sustainable Transport Coordinator Douglas.grierson@argyll-bute.gov.uk 01546 604228 The complete Feasibility and Options Appraisal report can be accessed via the projects web page Page 118
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC 28 FEBRUARY 2024 GROWTH LOCHGILPHEAD CARS – RECOMMENDATION OF GRANT AWARDS 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The purpose of this report is to ask Members to agree grant awards for three shopfront improvement projects using Lochgilphead Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) funding as follows: • Up to £48,981.25 to the shopfront at 4 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. • Up to £24,214.80 to the shopfront at 10 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. • Up to £49,999.00 to the shopfront at 23-25 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. 1.2 The grants will support the comprehensive reinstatement of two existing shopfronts and the repair and improvement of one shopfront. The works will complement the on-going repairs to Priority Buildings and will enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee approve the following shopfront improvement grant offers: • Up to £48,981.25 to the shopfront at 4 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. • Up to £24,214.80 to the shopfront at 10 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. • Up to £49,999.00 to the shopfront at 23-25 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. Page 119 Agenda Item 12
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC 28 FEBRUARY 2024 GROWTH LOCHGILPHEAD CARS – RECOMMENDATION OF GRANT AWARDS 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 The purpose of this report is to ask Members to agree grant awards for three shopfront improvement projects using Lochgilphead Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) funding as follow: • Up to £48,981.25 to the shopfront at 4 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. • Up to £24,214.80 to the shopfront at 10 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. • Up to £49,999.00 to the shopfront at 23-25 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. 2.2 The grants will support the comprehensive reinstatement of two existing shopfronts and the repair and improvement of one shopfront. The works will complement the on-going repairs to Priority Buildings and will enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee approve the following shopfront improvement grant offers: • Up to £48,981.25 to the shopfront at 4 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. • Up to £24,214.80 to the shopfront at 10 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. • Up to £49,999.00 to the shopfront at 23-25 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 The Lochgilphead Conservation Area Regeneration (CARS) is a grant programme focussing on the regeneration of historical buildings as well as traditional skills training and community engagement jointly funded by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and Argyll and Bute Council. The total grant fund Page 120
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available is £1,538,589.70. This figure includes additional monies approved via the Place Based Investment fund for 2022/23. The PBI funding was approved at a meeting of the Policy and Resources committee on the 10th August 2023 to support further improvement works and tenement property maintenance works. All PBI funding must be committed by 31st March 2024. 4.2 Lochgilphead CARS started in April 2020 and was due to conclude in March 2025. Due to the pandemic HES offered a one-year extension. This offer was accepted and the scheme is now running to March 2026. 4.3 A full funding package is in place, with expenditure monitored on a monthly basis. The project seeks to safeguard Lochgilphead’s heritage by supporting property owners to return their buildings and shopfronts to a good state of repair, which in turn increases the attractiveness of Lochgilphead’s town centre and encourages further investment. 4.4 This report seeks to outline grant awards from the Lochgilphead CARS budget to deliver improvements to three prominent shopfronts in Lochgilphead town centre. The proposed grant awards all include an element of the 2023-24 PBI funding. 4.5 Due to the time constraints with the PBI funding and the requirement to obtain MAKI approval for individual CARS grants over £10,000, we have taken forward the grant approval request to the February Area Committee meeting. Project costs are based on cost plans produced by a Conservation Accredited Design Team. The works are however subject to tender. Should the tenders be returned at a higher level that indicated by the cost plan, the grants will not increase and a value engineering exercise will be undertaken to meet the available budget if necessary. However, should the tender be returned at a lower level than indicated by the cost plan, the grants will reduce. 4.6 4 Argyll Street occupies the ground floor of 2-4 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead, which is a Priority Building project for Lochgilphead CARS. Work is due to start on the main repair project in March 2024 and last up to six months. Following the completion of the communal repair project, the plan is start work on the shopfront reinstatement at No. 4. The total projected cost as per the latest Cost Plan is £57,625.00. The proposed CARS grant amount is £48,981.25. The business owner will meet the balance. 4.7 10 Argyll Street occupies part of the ground floor of 6-10 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead, which is a Priority Building project for Lochgilphead CARS. Work is due to start on the main repair project in March 2024 and last up to six months. Following completion of the communal repair project, the plan is start work on the shopfront improvement work at No. 10. The total projected cost as per the latest Cost Plan is £28,488.00. The proposed CARS grant amount is £24,214.80. The business owner will meet the balance. 4.8 23-25 Argyll Street is located on the opposite side of Argyll Street to No. 4 and No. 10. The proposal includes the reinstatement of traditional features to improve the appearance of the property. In addition to this, some high level Page 121
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works will be carried out including painting the upper floors. The total projected cost as per the latest Cost Plan is £59,309.23. The proposed CARS grant amount is £49,999.00. The business owner will meet the balance. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The grant awards will support the repair and reinstatement of three prominent town centre shopfronts, complementing the improvements being delivered via the CARS Priority Building projects. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – The Single Outcome Agreement (SOA) and Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan 2013-2023 support town centre Regeneration and a diverse and thriving economy. 6.2 Financial – To satisfy audit requirements we provide an update on the overall financial position of the scheme to the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee on six-monthly basis. All grant funding is in place as part of the Lochgilphead CARS budget including the Historic Environment Scotland grant and Council match funding which includes an element of Private Sector Housing Grant. The scheme also relies on contributions from private building owners. The total common fund is £2,200,781.70. The total grant funding to be committed is £1,538,589.70. To date £1,204,149.52 has been committed. 6.3 Legal – Third party grant contracts are issued to all recipients of CARS grant funding. 6.4 HR – A project officer is employed to deliver the scheme for its duration. Staff Salaries are included within the project budget. 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 6.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics – None. 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – The grant funding will support local economies through place based regeneration activity. 6.5.3 Islands - None 6.6 Climate Change – The grants will help retain the use of three prominent shopfronts of historic buildings using traditional methods and materials and located in the town centre helping to retain the embedded carbon. The Page 122
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importance of this subject is also communicated to contractors to ensure that where possible climate adaption and mitigation is considered to help create a thriving, sustainable local economy and a healthier, happier place fostering carbon lifestyles. 6.7 Risk - That the grant schemes are underscribed or that projects run over time or budget. These risks will be carefully monitored and mitigated by the CARS project officer as the scheme progresses. 6.8 Customer Service – The Council is responsible for administering the CARS grants on behalf of Historic Environment Scotland and for ensuring due diligence in the performance of duties. 6.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) - None Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth - Kirsty Flanagan Councillor Liz McCabe, Policy Lead for Islands and Business Development 22 January 2024 For further information contact: Fergus Murray, Head of Development and Economic Growth fergus.murray@argyll-bute.gov.uk James Lafferty, Lochgilphead CARS Project Officer, Transformation Projects and Regeneration Team, Development and Economic Growth james.lafferty@argyll-bute.gov.uk Appendix 1 Page 123
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS COMMITTEE COMMUNITY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 28th February 2024 SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - Monitoring of Projects Funded 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide monitoring information on the funding given to community projects from the council’s Supporting Communities Fund. 1.2 12 constituted, not-for-profit community organisations were awarded funding by the Area Committee in the 2022/23 round of funding. Community organisations are required to spend their funding within 18 months and to submit an End of Project Monitoring Report outlining the project’s projected costs, actual costs and beneficiaries. 1.3 Members are asked to consider the contents of the report showing a summary of the information supplied by organisations in their End of Project Monitoring Reports. 1.4 Members are asked to note any return of unspent funds and that these are made available in future allocations of the Supporting Communities Fund. Page 125 Agenda Item 13
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE COMMUNITY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 28th February 2024 SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES FUND - Monitoring of Projects Funded 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 This report highlights the positive outcomes for communities in Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands through the allocation of the Council’s Supporting Communities Fund in the 2022/23. 2.2 A total of £24,619.59 was awarded to 12 organisations in 2022/23. Organisations have 18 months to spend the funds, and up to two months from the end of the project, to complete and return a project monitoring report. 2.3 A total of £117.50 in total has been identified as unspent funds and returned. This can be included in the distribution of the SCF in MAKI for 2024/25. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Area Committee: 3.1 Note and consider the positive contribution of the Supporting Communities Fund to communities detailed in section 4 of this report and the attached table. 3.2 Note that a total of £117.50 of unspent funds has been identified and returned, and agree that this be included in the distribution of the SCF for 2024/25. . 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 The 12 funded projects supported approximately 2,258 people to participate in a variety of activities including outdoors, sports, music and projects to impact mental health. Highlights include: Page 126
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• Acquacare, provided by Islay and Jura Community Enterprises continues to provide a unique service to provide relief from pain and injury in the pool. During the funded year they had 11 new referrals from GPs and had a total of 153 visits. One participant wrote: “I find it not only helps keeps the joints from seizing up there is the mental aspect too, it helps clear the mind. I really don’t know what I would do without the Wednesday and Thursday sessions.” • Over 25 people improved their mental wellbeing at the Kintyre Link Club, where they had formerly described social isolation, they now felt they were becoming part of the community again and growing in confidence. One attendee wrote: “I don’t know how I would cope without the support of the group….” The manager noted the increase in people currently suffering with poor mental health in the area. • Craignish Village Hall Arts programme for young people brought a high quality and varied programme of activities for young people and families to a remote rural area, achieved by matching funding, partnership working and encouraging volunteering. The final event, paid for largely by this grant, included lead-in workshops during half-term and finished with a big Halloween Lantern Parade attended by families from all around and described as a “BIG impression of light and wonder”. 4.2 The attached table summarises information received from individual projects. 4.3 10 grant recipients have submitted an End of Project Monitoring Report. 4.4 Note that a total of £117.50 in total has been returned; £117.50 to be included in the distribution of the SCF for 2024/25. The return of funds is a combination of projects under budget or funds unable to be spent. Page 127
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2022/23 SCF Round of Funding No Organisation Project Funded Award End of Project Achievements No. of people in communities benefitting 1 19th Argyll Scout (Lochgilphead) Group Hire of specialist instructors for 128 hours to run a series of adventurous and outdoor activities for children and young people £2,400.00 No EPMR received. 2 Achnamara Village Hall Committee A series of 26 community activities and training sessions to improve physical, mental and social health and wellbeing and to learn and share rowing and coxswaining skills £2,365.00 We managed to deliver more activities than we had hoped within the budget. The Hall was buzzing throughout the year. There were a few changes to the details of activities over the year, including less money spent on skiff training, film nights and arts and crafts, and so more funding available to deliver additional activities: Café Connect, book club, table tennis and a concert. The grant enabled the hall to remain open and play our vital role. 125 3 Argyll & Bute Befrienders 32 sessions of therapeutic and personal development activities for young people £602.00 We met the aims of the project in that we provided opportunities for disadvantaged children and young people to experience a range of recreational and therapeutic activities with the support of their befriender. The main activities undertaken were various sports including climbing, swimming, cycling and minigolf, arts and crafts activities such as pottery painting and felting and several of our young people benefited from horse-riding in small groups to build their confidence and help them learn to regulate their emotions. 19 (A&B wide ) 4 Craignish Village Hall materials, tutor fees and publicity for a series of 7 lantern-making workshops, a community parade and a storytelling workshop £2,500.00 We have delivered 111 hours of workshops, craft and play sessions to 56 young people under 18 in the financial year 2022/23. Our main event, a series of Lantern making workshops over a week and a parade culminating in a social event at the hall, took place during October and November 2022. These workshops and the Lantern parade used the bulk of the funding from Argyll & Bute. The workshops enabled participants (aged 3–80+ but predominantly children and young people) to build new skills in working with willow and building lanterns. 199 Page 128
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2022/23 SCF Round of Funding 5 Dochas Carer Centre staff costs (manager/finance/admin), social event costs for befriendees, first aid training and volunteer mileage expenses £2,500.00 The “Circle of Friends” increased their number of volunteers and hence the support they could offer befriendees, with 29 persons receiving essential friendly contact during the period and the opportunity to attend 3 social gatherings. They also delivered first aid training to carers and were able to recompense volunteers for their travel. 29 6 Heart of Argyll Wildlife Organisation An Otter road casualty remediation feasibility study. Funds are for equipment costs, staff time, travel expenses and a community engagement event £640.92 We addressed the concern within the Craignish Community of the number of otter deaths occurring along a 1 km stretch of the A816 in the vicinity of the Craobh Haven junction through the completion of a feasibility study to explore mitigation measures to reduce the casualty rate including: A walkover survey followed by data logging with trail cameras to establish signs of otter activity and road-crossing points; discovery of a blocked culvert, a discussion with Argyll and Bute Council’s roads department regarding clearance of culverts and implementation of signage and learning from other communities. Solutions were proposed and costed and reported to a meeting of the Craignish Community Council. 450 7 Islay & Jura Community Enterprises Ltd. 45 minute Aquacare warm water therapy sessions for up to 30 mentally and physically disabled adults per week £2,500.00 The funding has been used to provide one 45 minute Aquacare session per week. Aquacare aims to provide a form of individualised water therapy for people living with physical injuries or long-term conditions. It helps to provide a form of physical exercise in a zero gravity environment. We have had 17 people attend Aquacare this year, with many of them having been attendees to the session for a long period of time. We have had 11 new referrals from GPs. 34 8 Kintyre Alcohol and Drug Advisory Service 23 weekly arts workshops (April 2022- April 2023) for up to 10 women with problems associated with drug and alcohol dependency. Funds are for £1,179.27 No EPMR received. Page 129
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2022/23 SCF Round of Funding equipment and materials, and towards wages for two sessional workers (@1.5h/wk x 23 weeks) 9 Kintyre Link Club Social, creative and walking activities 3 days a week for around 30 beneficiaries for 13 weeks, costs for a sessional worker at 10 hours per week plus materials £2,500.00 The project supported people suffering with poor mental health to enjoy some fun but meaningful activities to help promote positive lifestyle choices and boost their self-esteem. These activities included creative writing where members produced some very interesting work which was subsequently incorporated into funding applications. They also took part in arts and crafts sessions, guided meditation and walking, beach sessions and cold water swimming. 43 10 Kintyre Seasports A sailing instructor training programme working in partnership with Campbeltown Grammar School. Funds will cover costs for 12 people to complete basic sailing skills course and 6 to continue to a Powerboat Level 2 course and continuing after school club £2,432.40 The project exceeded its aims and 32 Campbeltown Grammar School pupils have so far gained internationally recognised RYA qualifications. This has improved their skills and their employability with the school noting also an increase in confidence and learning to work confidently with different people. The students themselves are now promoting the programme. Youth workers help to ensure that there is fair access to this training across the school. 59 11 Shopper-Aide Ltd Activity boxes. Funding for 2 hours per week sessional worker costs, admin support at 1 hour per week, fuel costs and 2 tables £2,500.00 Since the easing of restrictions we have been able to restart our social groups at our premises, allowing our clients to meet and participate in activities after 2 years of reduced interaction and isolation since many of our clients have been isolating. We are now running Elderberries twice a week, an art group once a week, a bingo session once a week, groups for clients living with MS and Parkinson’s once a week/month and 3 weekly local groups in the rural villages surrounding Campbeltown. The restarting of these group sessions has had a major positive impact on our client’s mental and physical wellbeing. 100 Page 130
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2022/23 SCF Round of Funding 12 Tarbert & Skipness Community Trust (TSCT) Appointment of a part-time contractor for 8h/wk between April 2022 and September 2023, to inform, engage and consult the community about progress on various projects. £2,500.00 The project was aimed at improving Community Confidence. Having a dedicated communication budget was very effective, leaving no space for misunderstanding or alteration of information. Effective communication provides people of the community with information, structure, knowledge and creates a positive environment ultimately leading to a growth in community confidence and resilience. 1200 Page 131
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5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 The project monitoring form has a section asking for comments on the Supporting Communities Fund process. Not all applicants have completed this section but of those received, the comments have largely been very positive. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy: None 6.2 Financial: The report sets out the expenditure of Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands 2022/23 allocation of Supporting Communities Fund 6.3 Legal: None 6.4 HR: None 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty/Equalities/Islands: Compliant with policy and noting that 1 of the funded projects were on islands. 6.6 Climate Change: None 6.7 Risk: None 6.8 Customer Service: None 6.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC): None Chief Executive – Pippa Milne Policy Lead - Cllr Alistair Redman Communities and Partnership Manager – Rona Gold 31/01/2024 For further information contact: Community Development Officer Antonia Baird on 01546 604270 / antonia.baird@argyll-bute.gov.uk. Page 132
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Area Plans Update MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE 28 FEBRUARY 2024 FQ4 2023/24 Stuart Green Chief Executives Unit Argyll and Bute Council Page 133 Agenda Item 14
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#abplace2b Area Plans – What, Why and How? What? Creating area-based plans for all our communities, reflecting investment opportunities and local service prioritisation. Why? Increase rate of external investment by improving how we align with growing number of external funding streams (e.g. government). How? Through consensus, forward plan investment opportunities that improve outcomes. Page 134
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#abplace2b Area Plans – Mandate Council Agreed Priorities – November 2022 Corporate Plan 2023 - 2027; Agreed by Policy and Resources Committee – October 2023 Number of locality plans. Purpose & Principles Approach Resourcing and timescales In addition; agreed to reflect any relevant outcomes from the Community Planning Partnership Community Wealth Building Review relevant to the Council in the approach to producing area plans. Page 135
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#abplace2b No of Locality Plans 8 Areas Page 136
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#abplace2b Area Plans – Purpose & Principles Purpose Capture community vision and aspirations for each area. Reflect investment opportunities Identify local projects. Principles 1. The plans will be orientated towards maximising external funding. 2. The plans do not guarantee the provision of funding towards any of the projects contained therein. 3. The plans will seek to promote proposals that are aligned with the Council’s strategic plans and priorities. 4. All projects delivered by the Council will be prioritised and developed using our adopted project methodologies and processes. Page 137
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#abplace2b What is in scope? Projects – planned and proposed by CPP Partners and community groups. Community wealth building opportunities. Housing; needs, demands and opportunities. High level summary on socio economic data. Collating this information provides a baseline narrative and narrative. Page 138
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#abplace2b Community engagement Important to get right. Sense of consultation fatigue (anecdotal). Scottish Government Islands Consultation Community Led Action Plans/ Charrettes ABOIP More to come. Community Planning Group Area Plans Local Development Plans – Local Place Plans Need to coordinate engagement with our communities. Page 139
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#abplace2b Efficient use of resources. Area Plans Community Wealth Building CPG Area Plans Clear synergies to develop in tandem with; Community Planning Group Area Plans. Community Wealth Building. Careful consideration given to; Efficient and optimal use of resources. Co-ordinated consultation. Page 140
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#abplace2b Area plans - Approach Stages Activity 1 Collation of information and data e.g. Scottish Government island consultation data, data from ABOIP place standard consultations, existing community led plans etc. 2 Engage community councils, development trusts and community groups initially to test our findings and identify gaps and update maps and plans. 3 Wider public consultation on draft vision and maps and plans. 4 Publish analysis on feedback from engagement on draft vision and maps and plans. 5 Submit vision and maps and plans to Members for consideration. Page 141
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#abplace2b Governance and Flow of Information Page 142
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#abplace2b Phasing A phased but over-lapping approach is being taken to developing the Area Plans which will allow a) most effective use of resources and b) an iterative approach to learning from the process and identifying optimum methodologies. The phasing will be as follows; Phase 1; two localities – one island(s) locality and one mainland locality. Phase 2; three localities – one island(s) locality, two mainland localities. Phase 3; three localities – one island(s) locality, two mainland localities. Each phase will run for 12 months from start to finish. Phases 2 and 3 will commence 3 months after the previous phase starts. The 3 phases will almost run concurrently with the total programme scheduled to last 18 months (and not 36 months if run sequentially) April 2024 to September 2025. This is designed to expedite the process in the quickest time possible in relation to the available resource. Page 143
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#abplace2b How we will use the information? Area Plans should be viewed as a partnership document. Opportunity to capture all investments and aspirations for all to support development of visions for each area. May support strategic partners in developing future investment decisions and/or demonstrate community support. Plans will inform future opportunity for external funding. Effectively a ‘snap shot’ in time and does not prevent future opportunities. The plans do not guarantee the provision of funding towards any of the projects included but; Should provide clarity on opportunities, prioritisation, and improve matching and opportunities with external funding (which is significant). Page 144
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#abplace2b Your help please. 1. Identify all community groups in your area. 2. Identify all locations in your area suitable for individuals to see and comment on draft proposals. (This is to ensure individuals that cannot or choose not to access plans digitally are not excluded from the consultation process). 3. Encourage Community Councils, Development Trusts and Community Groups to participate in the process. Page 145
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List of Community Groups and Councils - MAKI - February 2024 No Name of Organisation - MAKI 1 19th Argyll Scout (Lochgilphead Group) 2 A816 Community Transport group 3 Achnamara Village Hall 4 ACUMEN (Network of Mental Health Advocacy) 5 Ardrishaig Community Trust 6 Argyll & Bute CAB 7 Argyll & Bute Rape Crisis 8 Ballygrant hall 9 Befrienders Argyll 10 Blarbuie Woodland Enterprise 11 Bowmore Hall 12 Bruichladdich Hall 13 Campbeltown Lawn Tennis 14 Carradale Community Trust 15 Carradale Village Hall 16 Charts Argyll 17 Chit Chat Islay 18 Colonsay Com Dev Trust 19 Craignish Community Company 20 Craignish Restoration of Marine and Coastal Habitats 21 Craignish Village Hall 22 Dochas Carer's Centre 23 Dunadd Community Enterprise 24 Easy Club 25 Feis an Tairbeirt 26 Fyne Families 27 Gigha Community Trust 28 Gigha Village hall 29 Heart of Argyll Tourist Alliance 30 Heart Of Argyll Wildlife Organisation 31 Inspiralba 32 Inspire Inveraray 33 Inveraray Senior Citizen's Hall (Nicol Hall) 34 Ionad Cholluim Chille Ile 35 Islay and Jura Community Enterprises (Pool) 36 Islay Foodbank 37 Islay Link Club 38 Islay Natural History Trust 39 Jura Community Development Trust 40 KDAS (Kintyre Drug & Alcohol Service) 41 Keeping It Local 42 Kilmartin Museum 43 King George V park (Ardrisaig) Please send information on any changes or additions to Areaplans@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 147
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List of Community Groups and Councils - MAKI - February 2024 44 Kintyre Community Crisis 45 Kintyre Food Bank 46 Kintyre Link Club 47 Kintyre Recycling 48 Kintyre Seasports 49 Kintyre Youth Cafe and Young Carers (The Hub) 50 Live Music Now Scotland 51 Loch Gair Residents Association 52 Lochgair Village Hall 53 Lochgilphead Parish Church Hall 54 Lomond and Argyll Advocacy 55 Machrihanish Airbase Community Company 56 MAKI Pups Outdoor Nursery 57 McTaggart Pool, Islay and Jura Community Enterprise 58 Mid Argyll Community Pool 59 Mid Argyll Diabetes group 60 Mid Argyll Transport Volunteers 61 Mid Argyll Youth Development Services 62 Moving On Mid Argyll (foodbank) 63 Multiple Sclerosis Centre Mid-Argyll 64 Phoenix Group, Lochgilphead 65 Seawilding 66 Shopper Aide 67 Sidekick (Islay) 68 Skipness Shop 69 South Islay Development Trust 70 South Kintyre Development Trust 71 South Kintyre Seniors Forum 72 Tarbert and Skipness Community Trust 73 Tarbert Arts and Leisure Centre (TALC) 74 Tarbert Soup group 75 Tarbert Village Hall 76 Tayinloan Youth Club 77 Tayvallich Community Village Hall SCIO 78 The Community Bureau 79 The GRAB Trust 80 This Is Islay 81 Upper Loch Fyne Coastal Rowing Club 82 We are With You (previously Addaction) 83 West Kintyre Community Resilience 84 Whitehouse Village Hall No Community Councils 1 Ardrishaig 2 Campbeltown 3 Colonsay 4 Craignish 5 Dunadd Please send information on any changes or additions to Areaplans@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 148
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List of Community Groups and Councils - MAKI - February 2024 6 East Kintyre 7 Furnace 8 Gigha 9 Inveraray 10 Islay 11 Jura 12 Lochgilphead 13 North Knapdale 14 South Knapdale 15 Southend 16 Tarbert & Skipness 17 The Laggan 18 West Kintyre 19 West Lochfyne Please send information on any changes or additions to Areaplans@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 149
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CHARITABLE TRUSTS, BEQUESTS AND TRUST FUNDS – DISTRIBUTION ARRANGEMENTS 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee are Trustees for a number of Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds. Officers continually seek to simplify and update processes where possible to ensure ongoing compliance with the original terms of the bequests and to reduce the administrative burden of the management and distribution. However, there remains a number of challenges, a number of the funds were established many years ago, and as a consequence of changes in society over time the intended beneficiaries of the bequests are no longer easily identified. 1.2 This paper invites the Trustees of the Campbell Bequest, the McNeil Bequest, the Macalister Mortification and the Fisher Bequest to consider distribution arrangements for each of these funds. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee are asked to: 1. agree the proposals for distribution arrangements for the Campbell Bequest and the McNeil Bequest outlined within this report, 2. note that a review of the updated distribution arrangements for the aforementioned funds will be undertaken and reported to the Area Committee following the first 12 months of operation; 3. agree that applications be invited from suitable organisation for a one off project that would meet the terms of the Fisher Bequest and that on submission this proposal will be subject to consideration by the Area Committee; and 4. note that officers are working towards preparing distribution arrangements for the Macalister Mortification for later consideration by members. ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE LEGAL & REGULATORY SUPPORT 6 March 2024 Page 151 Agenda Item 17
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CHARITABLE TRUSTS, BEQUESTS AND TRUST FUNDS – DISTRIBUTION ARRANGEMENT 3.0 INTRODUCTION 3.1 The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee are Trustees of 19 Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds with an estimated unrestricted balance of around £139K. This report invites Trustees to consider distribution arrangements for 4 of these funds. 4.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 4.1 The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Committee are asked to: 1. agree the proposals for distribution arrangements for the Campbell Bequest and the McNeil Bequest outlined within this report, 2. note that a review of the updated distribution arrangements for the aforementioned funds will be undertaken and reported to the Area Committee following the first 12 months of operation; 3. agree that applications be invited from suitable organisation for a one off project that would meet the terms of the Fisher Bequest and that on submission this proposal will be subject to consideration by the Area Committee; and 4. note that officers are working towards preparing distribution arrangements for the Macalister Mortification for later consideration by members. 5.0 BACKGROUND 5.1 Due to the restrictive nature of some funds, specifically the Campbell Bequest, McNeil Bequest, the Macalister Mortification and The Fisher Bequest, difficulties had been faced in establishing suitable distribution arrangements. Consequently, Officers from Legal and Regulatory Support had been in dialogue with both The Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) and Lord Advocates Office in an attempt to ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS AREA COMMITTEE LEGAL & REGULATORY SUPPORT 6 March 2024 Page 152
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establish appropriate methods of distributing these funds, specifically using provisions within the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions)(Scotland ) Act 1990 and The Public Trusts (Reorganisation) (Scotland) (No.2) Regulations to transfer the resources to charities and trusts that are better placed to meet the terms of each of the funds. 5.2 Largely as a consequence of the lack of associated documentation of the funds, despite making all reasonable enquiries, very little progress had been made in this regard. Consequently officers are of the opinion that progress can only now be made by preparing bespoke, council administered, distribution models for the aforementioned funds. These arrangements have draw upon existing models of distribution, which have been working well in other localities, to ensure maximum community benefit. 6.0 CAMPBELL & MCNEIL BEQUESTS 6.1 The Campbell and McNeil Bequests were both established to benefit the poor of the Parish of Kildalton and Oa. At the time of the original bequests the benefactors would have been clear about who the intended beneficiaries would be. This is however, rather more difficult to quantify today, and it may be useful for trustees to refer to appendix 1, which offers some guidance and definitions of poverty which can be broader than simply a lack of funds. 6.2 Given the similarities of the Bequests in terms of the intended beneficiaries and the defined locality it is suggested that a single application process is used, this will serve to lessen the administrative burden. While a single application form would be used it will be clear that the form relates to both Bequests. Applications will be considered by Trustees on a quarterly basis, as required, with recipients receiving awards via bank transfer thereafter. 6.3 For the avoidance of doubt the parish of Kildalton and Oa is separated from Kilarrow by an irregular line running from Laggan to Proag and follows the windings of several small streams, forms the south east portion and about one- third of the island of Islay, terminating at the Mull of Islay or of Oe [Oa], applicants must live within these boundaries. The map of the parish can be found at appendix 2. 6.4 On the basis that Trustees wish to manage the resources of the Funds, Trustees should establish eligibility criteria that must be met before applications will be considered. 6.5 Care needs to be taken by the Trustees to ensure that the Funds are not unintentionally depleted by broad acceptance criteria. It is proposed that applying ‘is in receipt of means tested benefits’ as the eligibility criteria would be likely to have the effect of increasing both the number of applications and the overall burden on the Fund and therefore more detailed specification is proposed. 6.6 Consequently, it is proposed that the application be invited from where the income of the household is below £250 per resident in the household per week. Page 153
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6.7 It is proposed that the same eligibility criteria be applied to those seeking an award from both Bequests. This would ensure that the Bequests are only accessible by those individuals and families on a low income. However, the application form will ask for specific details as to why they are facing financial hardship at the time of submitting the application. 6.8 It is further proposed that in order to be considered eligible applicants must be over the age of 16. 6.9 It is proposed that awards are set at £50 for individuals and £100 for families. It is also recommended that applicants receive a maximum of a single award each calendar year. 6.10 As of 30/03/2023 the balance of the Campbell Bequest stands at £2941 which comprises of £50 restricted funds and £2891 non-restricted, the McNeil Bequests comprises of £100 in restricted funds and £4141 in non-restricted. Combined the total amount available to benefit the Parish of Kildalton and Oa stand at over £7k. 6.11 It should be noted that the level of interest gained by the Fund is low, however there is a significant amount available in the unrestricted funds. It is recommended that there should be no limit to the amount which can be awarded in each calendar year providing that it does not exceed the amount available in the unrestricted funds. This would be reviewed annually and reported to the Area Committee. 7.0 Macalister Mortification 7.1 The Macalister Mortification was bequeathed in around 1897 and was to be invested in heritable security for the poor of the parish of Killean and Kilchenzie. As of 30/03/2023 the balance of the Macalister Mortification stands at £4723 which comprises of £1100 restricted funds and £3623 non-restricted. 7.2 Officers are currently working towards drafting distribution arrangements for this for later consideration by members. 8.0 The Fisher Bequest 8.1 The Fisher Bequest was established to support the poor of Inveraray. As of 30/03/2023 the balance of the Fisher Bequest stands at £398 which comprises of £50 restricted funds and £348 non-restricted. As this amount in considerably less that the other funds contained within this report the distribution arrangements outlined above would not be suitable in this instance as only a small number of awards could be made before the fund was exhausted. 8.2 Having taken cognisance of the limited amount of resources available within this fund it is suggested that Trustees invite suitable organisations to submit a proposal for a one off project that would seek to support the poor of Inveraray and that this be subject to consideration by the Area Committee. 8.3 The scope of the project and those that could benefit from it would be limited to the boundaries of the Parish of Inveraray of which the northern and larger portion Page 154
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is traversed by the valleys of Glenshira and Glenaray, which converge towards the south. The map of the Parish can be found at appendix 3. 8.4 The total amount available would be no more than £348, if the project meets the expectations of the Trustees the full £348 would be made available with a moratorium thereafter placed on the fund. To ensure that funds have been used to meet the terms of the Bequest the successful applicant would be expected to submit an end of project monitoring form. 9.0 CONCLUSION 9.1 This report has outlined the current position in terms of financial and distribution arrangements of funds held in trust by the Area Committees. On approving the recommendations they will provide a clear community benefit while meeting our obligation of ensuring transparent and effective governance. 9.2 Each of the funds have been inactive for a number of years, this report seeks to address this and ensure that it provides a clear community benefit while meeting our obligation of ensuring transparent and effective governance. 10.0 IMPLICATIONS 10.1 Policy - Consideration of the questions raised will ensure that the intentions of the original bequests are honoured. 10.2 Financial - None, the Council acts as trustee for the Funds, it does not represent assets of the Council. However, there is a risk that the Council would have to repay each fund if an objection was raised as to the award/use of the funds. 10.3 Legal - Area Committees, as Trustees, must ensure that the distribution arrangements comply with the terms of each fund, failure to do so would result in the Council being liable. 10.4 HR - To proceed with reorganisation, in terms of section 10 or 11 of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Scotland) Act 1990 would require the allocation of Officer time. 10.5 Fairer Scotland Duty - None 10.5.1 Equalities – protected characteristics – None 10.5.2 Socio-Economic Duty – None 10.5.3 Islands – None 10.6 Climate Change – None 10.7 Risk – Recent changes to the benefit system, and low interest rates may result in an oversubscription to the bequest. If there was an objection raised as to the use of the funds in a particular way, there is a risk that the Council could have to pay Page 155
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the costs themselves and repay the Trust the costs. The level of risk is considered to be acceptable. 10.8 Customer Service – None 10.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – None Douglas Hendry Executive Director with responsibility for Legal & Regulatory Support January 2024 Policy Lead - Councillor Alastair Redman For further information contact: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, 01436 658717, stuart.mclean@argyll-bute.gov.uk Appendices Appendix 1 – Definitions of Poverty Appendix 2 – Parish of Kildalton and Oa Appendix 3 – Parish of Inverary Page 156
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Appendix 1 Definitions of Poverty "There are basically three current definitions of poverty in common usage: absolute poverty, relative poverty and social exclusion. Absolute poverty is defined as the lack of sufficient resources with which to keep body and soul together. Relative poverty defines income or resources in relation to the average. It is concerned with the absence of the material needs to participate fully in accepted daily life. Social exclusion is a new term used by the Government. The Prime Minister described social exclusion as "…a shorthand label for what can happen when individuals or areas suffer from a combination of linked problems such as unemployment, poor skills, low incomes, poor housing, high crime environments, bad health and family breakdown"." The House of Commons Scottish Affairs Committee The Definition of Poverty The usual definition of relative low income are households whose equivalised income before housing costs is below 60% of the median ( i.e. midpoint) income in the U.K. in the same year. Income is the income from all sources for all members of the household but after deductions for income tax, National Insurance contributions, council tax, pension contributions and maintenance payments. Equivalisation allows for differences in the size and composition of households, and recognises that a family of several people requires a higher income than a single person in order for both households to have a similar standard of living. It is assumed that all individuals in the household benefit equally from the combined equivalised income of the household. For a couple with no children the U.K. median income before housing costs in 2006- 07 was £377 per week. The relative low income level was therefore £226 per week. The Experience of Rural Poverty in Scotland (Scottish Government 2009) From the definitions above, it is clear that the worst cases of absolute poverty should never occur in Oban, and the trustees will consequently be more likely to be concerned with applicants experiencing gradations of “relative poverty” i.e. using equivalency to the income levels determined above. Using the figures above as a guide, in general, those on mean tested benefits such as jobseekers allowance (£146 per fortnight for a single person) will be likely to fall within the definition of relative poverty. Page 157
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Appendix 2 Parish of Kildalton and Oa Page 159
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Appendix 3 Parish of Inveraray Page 161
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Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Workplan 2023 – 24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 28 February 2024 28 February 2024 Transport Scotland Update Neil MacFarlane Transport Scotland Annual Report 28 February 2024 Scottish Water Update Georgie Reid Scottish Water Annual Report 28 February 2024 Area Performance Report FQ3 23/24 Jane Fowler/Sonya Thomas Performance and Improvement Quarterly Report 28 February 2024 Roads and Infrastructure Services Update Jim Smith Roads and Infrastructure Services Quarterly Report 28 February 2024 Roads Capital Programme Report Jim Smith Roads and Infrastructure Services Annual Report 28 February 2024 Strategic Housing investment plan (SHIP) Douglas Whyte Development and Economic Growth Annual Report 28 February 2024 2023/24 Active Travel Progress Report Colin Young Development and Economic Growth Annual Report 28 February 2024 Primary Area Attainment Report: MAKI Brendan Docherty Education Annual Report 28 February 2024 Supporting Communities Antonia Baird Chief Executive’s Unit Annual Report Page 163 Agenda Item 18
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Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Workplan 2023 – 24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment Fund 2022/23 End of Project Monitoring Reports 28 February 2024 Area Plans Update Stuart Green Chief Executive’s Unit One-off Report 28 February 2024 Lochgilphead to Crinan Canal Active Travel Route: Concept Design and Future External Funding Douglas Grierson Development & Economic Growtth One-off Report 28 February 2024 Report on the distribution arrangements for the Campbell Bequest and McNeill Bequests Shona Barton Legal & Regulatory Support One-off 28 February 2024 Lochgilphead CARS – Recommendation of Grant Awards James Lafferty Development & Economic Growth One-Off 28 February 2024 Area Committee Workplan Shona Barton Legal & Regulatory Support For updating June 2024 June 2024 Islay High School Stephen Harrison Annual Report Page 164
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Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Workplan 2023 – 24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment Report Head Teacher June 2024 Tarbert Academy Report Neil McKnight Head Teacher Annual Report June 2024 Campbeltown Grammar School Report Kirsty Donnelly Interim Head Teacher Annual Report June 2024 Lochgilphead High School Report Jay Helbert Head Teacher Annual Report June 2024 Roads and Infrastructure Services Update Jim Smith Roads and Infrastructure Services Quarterly Report June 2024 Area Performance Report FQ4 22/23 Jane Fowler/Sonya Thomas Performance and Improvement Quarterly Report June 2024 HSCP Bi-Annual Update Report Charlotte Craig/Fiona Davies Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Bi-Annual Report June 2024 Supporting Communities Fund Applications 2024/25 Antonia Baird Chief Executive Annual Report June 2024 Kilkerran Cemetery Update Report Hugh O’Neill Roads and Infrastructure Services Quarterly Report Deferred from Feb 24 Committee, as Page 165
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Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Workplan 2023 – 24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment agreed by Chair. June 2024 Area Committee Workplan Shona Barton For updating September 2023 September 2024 Annual Recycling Performance Report Jim Smith Roads and Infrastructure Services Annual Report September 2024 Area Performance Report FQ1 24/25 Jane Fowler/Sonya Thomas Performance and Improvement Quarterly Report September 2024 Supporting Communities Fund – End of Project Monitoring 23/24 Rona Gold/Antonia Baird Chief Executive Regular Report September 2024 Skills Development Scotland Susan Macrae, SDS Annual Report September 2024 Area Committee Workplan Shona Barton For updating September 2024 Primary School Report Rosie MacKay & 2 Head Teachers Annual Report December 2024 December 2024 Area Performance Jane Fowler/Sonya Thomas Performance and Improvement Quarterly Report Page 166
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Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Workplan 2023 – 24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment Report FQ2 24/25 December 2024 HSCP Bi-Annual Update Report Charlotte Craig/Fiona Davies Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Bi-Annual Report December 2024 ACHA Annual Update Chief Executive ACHA Annual Report December 2024 Charities and Trust Funds Shona Barton Legal and Regulatory Support Annual Report December 2024 Roads and Infrastructure Services Update Jim Smith Roads and Infrastructure Services Quarterly Report December 2024 Area Committee Workplan Shona Barton For updating Future Items Patient Transport Policy Health and Social Care Partnership One off Report Update on new policy following completion of review. Flooding issues in MAKI Roads and Infrastructure Services Ongoing MAKI Accessibility and Footway Survey TBC TBC Page 167
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Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Workplan 2023 – 24 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment Kilkerran Cemetery Hugh O’Neill Ongoing Agreed at December 2024 AC to be a standing item until such time as new Cemetery identified and agreed. Page 168