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31 May 2007
Minutes of 9th May 2007 Meeting.
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Minutes of 7th September 2005 meeting
Minutes of 5th October 2005 meeting
Present: Councillors Fiona Murdoch, Gary Coull, Mike McConnachie, Rhona Patterson (Chair), Alex Gordon-Duff, James Mark, Dave Dillon, Innes Macpherson, Apologies: Jane Macpherson, Pearl Paul, Ron Shepherd, Dave McWilliam, June Simpson, Ian Ross. In Attendance: Community Warden - Donna.
1. Minutes of Previous Meeting
Previous Minutes were proposed by Alex Gordon-Duff, seconded by James Mark.
2. Police
In place of Police, Community Warden Donna was present. She works 2 days/week with a remit of youth, housing officer, minor offences, e.g. quad bikes, dog fouling. She can issue on-the-spot fines. Rhona suggested she required more publicity.
The derelict house in Newmill is still boarded up and intact - OK.
3. Youth
Still no success in getting a young person to attend SCC. Keep trying and keep it on the agenda.
4. Planning
No issues were raised.
The SCC’s objection to the Boharm development still stands and has not been withdrawn.
There will be a new Planning System; Councillors will not decide on planning applications unless there are a certain number of objections (e.g. 6 or 8). Otherwise, an application is decided by the Planning Committee, which is reduced from 26 members to 15. If a Planning Officer refuses an application, the applicant can appeal, but the Planning Officer has more power than before. It was agreed to ask someone from Planning to explain more about this system. Action Point.
5. Botriphnie
The Stoneybrae road has been repaired.
Ref. the bridge at Mill of Towie, it was asked why Moray Council repaired the fence, when it was a Douglasbrae vehicle which damaged it? Their insurance should have covered the repair. Armco barriers make the bridge narrower. Pearl may have answers to these points.
In Drummuir Village the Tocher Terrace carpark is pot-holed; not sure if this would come out of Housing or Roads budget, but it needs repair. Action Point.
6. Rural Keith and Newmill
Query if the light at Chivas has been fixed - it dazzles drivers and is dangerous. Also, bicycles with no lights are in danger. Pearl maybe dealt with this.
Street lighting between Keith and Newmill has been requested, but deferred.
New goal posts in the park are too near one of the houses, and facing the wrong way. Community Warden Donna is to speak to the house to see if there is a problem. Action Point.
Car Boot Sale in Newmill carpark - has to be booked through Community Centre and is charged for, which is poor, as it is for the community.
Newmill recycling area is to be extended.
7. Rothiemay
No Rothiemay representative.
New community noticeboard to be unveiled on 10th May.
Break-ins have quietened down.
Recycling bins are to go beside the graveyard.
8. The Den
Request that Councillors come to a meeting. Action Point. Since the residents committee stopped, the Den has become a “dumping ground” for not-so-nice folk. Percy Watt had seen the housing officer and had advised to keep the petition going. Houses are being wrecked and rent payments are in arrears.
The quality-of-water issue is sorted - new system since work started in Fife-Keith.
9. Grange
No representative.
10. Boharm
Objection to the Sun Honey development is still in place. The developer attended the last SCC meeting and complained (he does not have the right to speak unless asked). Innes reported that Moray Council had written to an objector saying that the development should be allowed, because there are local facilities incl. School, whereas it was closed 5 years ago.
The Bus Shelter has no roof, and walls are going to collapse. Moray Council provided a new shelter, but not on the bus route. There was no consultation. The old bus shelter needs to be removed and a new one erected in the same location. Action Point.
11. Correspondence
Friends of the Earth - Planning Training - no interest.
Bob Yule - SAOS Community Fund - suggests meeting. He has to write a paper to AMEC ref. who would administer the community fund, how much it would be. The meeting is 30th May or 13th June in Newmill. James Mark interested, also a Den rep.. Rhona is to communicate the date. Action Point.
SEPA - N-E Water Plan - Inverurie, 28th May - no interest.
Moray Against Poverty tel 0800 04303352, Handyperson Service - tel 01343 559739.
NHS - Ambulance Service - 6-month trial of reduction in on-call staff.
Joint Community Councils meeting on 10th May.
Crown Estate Report; propose to dispose of rights to foreshores and seabeds to Local Authorities.
AOCB:
Schoolchildren in streets are leaving litter.
Alex asked if SCC Constitution to be sent to himself and newer members. Action Point.
Innes suggested a Letter of Thanks be written to Percy Watt - agreed. Action Point.
12. Next Meeting
The next riveting instalment of Strathisla Community Council will take place on 6th June at 7.30 pm.
Present:
Rhona Patterson, Dave McWilliam, June Simpson, Jane Macpherson, June Whitecross, James Mark, Keith Alderson, Ian Ross, Cllr Percy Watt, Sgt Paul Smith (Grampian Police)
Apologies:
Alex Gordon-Duff, Inns Macpherson, Nancy Cruickshank, Jenny Anderson, Cllr Pearl Paul
1. Member resignation
The resignation of Regan Walters was accepted due to her recent move to Rothiemay. There is now a vacancy for the post of Treasurer.
2. Record of Previous Minutes:
Proposed - Dave McWilliam Seconded - June Simpson
3. Police Issues
Sgt Paul Smith introduced himself as the recently appointed new head of Keith Police Station and was keen to ensure regular police attendance at SCC meetings and better communication between police and Community Councillors. New Community Beat Officer is Ian Ralston. Sgt Smith requested communications from SCC members by email if possible.
Sgt Smith reported that following a recent spate of car crime in Keith several people have been apprehended.
Discussion about ongoing problems with a derelict house in Newmill where youngsters congregate. Sgt Smith reported the police can deal with vandalism problems but not with civil law issues.
He also made it clear that the police representative at meetings will not speak on individual cases or ongoing cases without prior warning to the meeting. In addition, he said the police will only act on information from the 'complainer/victim' of an incident who can make the decision on what action should be taken. Third party information will be noted but not necessarily acted upon. It is very helpful to police if witnesses can be identified for specific incidents.
Police to look at issue of graffiti on recycling bins at Newmill. POLICE
Police to look at abandoned car at Tocher Terrace, Drummuir POLICE
Rhona has dealt with the fly tipping problem in Newmill.
4. Rothiemay
Dog Bins - at present there is no stock. Percy will report at the next meeting. PERCY
Jean Corrigal - is unwell. It was agreed to send a card and flowers to her at Ward 19, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. RHONA
5. The Den
Recycling bins are full at present. Query now as to whether they should be removed as previously discussed.
Query about the allocation of Council housing. PERCY
Request for single pensioners' house front doors to be improved. PERCY
6. Grange
Repairs to B9018 and Clearkseat Road now completed.
No movement on housing applications at Foggiemoss Road. There have been more applications made during the Christmas period which should be examined by SCC.
7. Boharm
Bus Shelter - Moira Stewart to phone Pearl Paul JANE
Car Park - Jane will discuss at next Hall Meeting JANE
8. Botriphnie
Recycling Bins - ongoing. Suggestion they could be placed in a corner of the school playground which serves as the staff car park
Damage to Botriphnie Road - request again for armco PEARL
Vehicle activated speeding signs are now in situ.
The objection to the Playing Field application has been logged.
9. Rural Keith and Newmill
Walkers between Keith and Newmill - Percy awaiting an answer from George Borthwick regarding street lighting. PERCY
Request for police input into newsletter. Ian Ralston will be asked to submit piece about safe pedestrian walking on the Keith-Newmill road. POLICE
Recycling point - there is an error on the new sign. `Household waste' was encouraging people to dump all their rubbish. A sticker has now been placed over `waste'. The bins are full and need emptying.
Gate lighting at Chivas Bond - Percy has spoken to Security people
10. Correspondence
winter gritting leaflet
fundraising seminar for community groups
Educational Services requesting information about Grange and Crossroads Primary Schools re projected rolls and capacity. Rhona to contact A Farquhar re `capacity' being used as a useful tool in discussing school closures. RHONA
Postwatch Scotland - how to stop unwanted mail
Hitrans draft regional strategy - public consultation on road networks. SCC unanimously in agreement that no 2+1 laned roads should be approved anywhere in Scotland. Dave McWilliam to email response. DAVE
11. AOCB
JCC meeting - Dave McWilliam had attended. No minutes yet published. Discussion on changes in licensing laws. Finance - £500 in bank account. Little support for Local Neighbourhood Forums. There will be 4 meetings per year.
The next Local Neighbourhood Forum meeting will be held on Thurs 9 February at 7.3 Oat new meeting room at Keith Swimming Pool
12. NEXT MEETING
The next meeting will be on Wed 7 Feb at 7.3Opm
Present:
Rhona Patterson, Michael Young, Dave McWilliam, June Simpson, Keith Alderson, Alex Gordon-Duff, Ian Ross, Cllr Percy Watt
Apologies:
David Dillon, James Mark, Regan Walters, Jenny Anderson, Nancy Cruickshank, June Whitecross, Inns McPherson, Jane McPherson, Cllr Pearl Paul
Record of Previous Minutes:
Proposed - Ian Ross, Seconded - Alex Gordon-Duff
Police Issues:
An abandoned car was noted at Tocher Terrace, this information will be passed to police.
Fly tipping has again been reported - Rhona will contact council Youth Issues: NoneRURAL KEITH AND NEWMILL:
Private Supplies - Ongoing
Walkers between Keith and Newmill - Percy spoke to Mr Borthwick reference street lighting along road.
Recycling - Ongoing, Moray Council to be contacted about removal of large bins now that kerb side service has been established. MICK
Lorries using Market Lane - Lorries have ceased using lane.
New issues:
Gate Lighting at Chivas Bond - The new halogen lighting at the gate is blinding road users and pedestrians. PERCY
Christmas Lighting - A Sub-Committee will be established for Christmas Lighting in Newmill to ensure that liability insurance is covered by Moray Council. Proposed: Keith Alderson, Seconded: Dave McWilliam. The issue of investigation into whether this facility could be expanded to encompass Community Associations was raised. PERCY
ROTHIEMAY:
Speeding - Ongoing.
Recycling Bins - No Progress.
Forestry Lorries - Keith has requested they take care when travelling through the village.
New Issues:
Dog Bins - A request for more Dog Bins to be sited in the village. PERCY
DEN:
No Previous Issues
New Issues:
Recycling Bins - Moray Council to be contacted about removal of large bins now that kerb side service has been established. MICK
GRANGE:
B9018 Repairs - During recent repairs it was noted that the siting of diversion sites was poor in relation to the location of the work. Clerkseat Rd was being used as a diversion by local traffic, this single track rd was unsuitable for the large vehicles using it and it is requested that an inspection of the road and verges be carried out to check for damage. PERCY
Housing applications of Foggie Moss Rd - A number of residents raised their concerns about the number of approved and pending planning applications along this narrow single track road, they feel the road is unsuitable for the increased traffic should these applications be approved and have concerns about road safety for the local children and walkers. Cllr Watt is aware of this issue and has raised it with the roads manager. The Grange representative has requested that all applications along that road are examined by SCC and for a meeting with the Roads Manager and a representative from the Planning Dept. MICK
BOHARM:
No Rep present.
Hall Car park - Ongoing. Bus Shelter - Ongoing.
BOTRIPHNIE:
Recycling Bins - Ongoing.
Damage to Botriphnie Rd - Following a vehicle accident the road requires repair and consideration should be given to the siting of ARMCO on the accident corner. RHONA WILL PASS TO CLLR PAUL
Logging Activity - The damage to the road caused by logging activity near Gateside appears to have had a temporary repair.
CORRESPONDENCE:
Insurance Cover for Community Council - see Rural Keith and Newmill.
Landfill Tax Credit Scheme.
Vehicle Activated Signs to be sited in Drummuir.
Countryside Alliance - Protect Rural Post Offices (Drummuir, Rothiemay, Newmill will action)
AOCB
JCC meeting will be held on 14th December a donation from SCC, toward a gift for the outgoing JCC secretary, of £10 was agreed.
Ongoing discussion on Neighbourhood Forums.
Local signposting on Keith/Fochabers Rd - This will be covered when the Meeting with the roads manager is organised.
PLANNING:
Following advice from Moray Council legal dept, Alex Gordon-Duff left they meeting in order that a planning application submitted by him could be discussed in full.
Prior to his departure he requested that consideration to in a letter he presented to the chair.
Following discussion the SCC voted unanimously to object to the application on the grounds the loss of amenity land.
Next Meeting: 10th January 2007 19:30.
Present:
Rhona Patterson, Mick Young, David Dillon, Jane McPherson, Alex Gordon Duff, Ian Ross Apologies: Dave McWilliam, Keith Alderson, June Whitecross, Nancy Cruickshank, Cllr Percy Watt, Innes McPherson, Cllr Pearl Paul, Regan Walters
Record of Previous Minutes:
Jane and Alex
Police Issues:
Rhona expressed her disappointment at the lack of response from the police on issues raised in previous minutes and reiterated that a copy of the minutes is sent to the Keith police Office for their information/action. Non-Emergency Helpline: An answering service has been added to the service during busy and out of hours periods. _'a-t
PLANNING:
A thank you to all those that responded to the local plan questionnaire.
YOUTH ISSUES:
Nil
BOTRIPHNIE:
Recycling Bins - Alex explained that Drummuir Estate is no longer happy to have recycling bins sited on estate ground by Tocher Terrace, consideration will be given to sighting them at an alternate location. ACTION ALEX, DAVID DILLON
Road to Kirk - Alex raised that there has been an increase of traffic parking on the sides of the road to the kirk which will undoubtedly lead to wear and tear to the road and verges. At present there is still a question mark over the ownership of this road and Alex suggested that this might justify Moray Council carrying out repairs. It was felt that the estate should approach Moray Council on this subject.
RURAL KEITH AND NEWMILL:
Private Supplies - A point was raised on the issue of the testing of private supplies and 1 the requirements of Moray Council and SEPA on this issue. ACTION MICK
Walkers between Keith and Newmill - Rhona expressed her concern for the safety of pedestrians walking from Keith to Newmill. This point will be published in the next Newmill Newsletter.
Recycling Bins - Ian and Rhona reported that there have been instances of fly tipping by the recycling bins in the square, this will be monitored.
Recycling Lorries - Ian reported that recycling lorries were using Market Lane during collections, he pointed out this was a private road and large vehicles on this road are likely to cause damage to the house on that lane. ACTION RHONA
ROTHIEMAY:
none present
Speeding - Ongoing
Recycling Bins - OngoingDEN:
None Present
GRANGE:
Road closed signs - signs appear to have been left out for long period when no apparent work is being carried out, clarification of the policy on signage from BEAR will be sought. ACTION MICK
BOHARM:
It was noted that BEAR parked large vehicles in the car park of the village hall during maintenance to the roadside drainage; this has caused damage to the car park. The Hall Committee will write to BEAR on this issue. SCC will follow up if required.
Bus Shelter - The bus shelter roof is in desperate need of replacement. ACTION JANE?
CORRESPONDENCE:
Licensing Authority - Draft consultation on Gambling, Req Reply.
Response on cost of work on lighting and overtime, follow up when Percy at Meeting.
Play Equipment - details passed to Boharm.
SCARF
AOCB:
JCC - Discussion on the need/benefit of neighbourhood forums. The general feeling was that they are an unnecessary overlap of existing organisations; this was underlined by the poor attendance at the local neighbourhood forum open day.
Remembrance Sunday - A reminder for the collection of the wreaths.
Next Meeting: 6 DEC 2006 19:30.
AGENDA FOR SCC MEETING 1st Nov. 2006
Apologies
Minutes of 4th October Meeting
Matters arising and new issues.
- Police Issues
- Youth Issues
- Botriphnie
- Rural Keith & Newmill
- Rothiemay
- The Den
- Grange
- Boharn
- Correspondence
- AOCB
Strathisla Community Council
Minutes 4th October 2006Present:
Innes MacPherson, Jane McPherson, Ian Ross, Regan Walters, Rhona Patterson, James Mark, Alex Gordon-Duff, June Whitecross, David McWilliam, Cllr Percy Watt, Cllr. Pearl Paul, Sgt Jones.
Apologies:
June Simpson, Mick Young, David Dillon, Nancy Cruickshank, Keith Alderson.
Visitors:
Mark Cross (Principle Planning Officer, Moray Council).
Meeting Opened: The meeting was opened at 7:30pm with Rhona Patterson in the Chair.
Matters Arising: None.
Minutes of Meeting 6th September 06: Acceptance proposed by Innes MacPherson and seconded by Jane MacPherson.
Police Issues:
Police Patrols - Sgt Jones reported that the "meet the people" patrols to the outlying communities were continuing. Rhona said that she had been informed that the patrols had apparently not been seen in Rothiemay and asked when the patrols had called there. Sgt Jones replied that they typically take place in the evenings and at weekends and that they call at places like the pub. Rhona stressed that the main purpose of the patrols had been to introduce the police to the young people of the area in the hope that such personal contact would help to reduce bullying and vandalism.
Parking in Newmill - Sgt Jones said that there was nothing further to report but that the police were aware of the problem and would make a point of keeping an aye on the issue. Rhona said that it was particularly prevalent on Hill Street.
Derelict house in Newmill Square: At a previous meeting, PC Smith had said that the owner of the house would be approached by the police and Rhona asked whether there had been an advance in the matter. Sgt Jones said he was unaware of the issue.
Speeding in Newmill: Sgt Jones said that more police officers were being trained in the use of speed cameras and that they intended to carry out speed checks in Newmill in the near future.
Vandalism: Rhona reported that police had been called two weeks previously and had been given the names of children who had been throwing apples at windows. Sgt Jones said he would speak to PC Smith to it and report back. Action: Sgt. Jones.
Mulben Harassment - Innes reported that the police had been called to Cullieshangan farmhouse. Ann and Steve Johnston own the farmhouse but the farmer owns the surrounding land. The farmer had dug up the road, supposedly for drainage purposes, and had erected three sets of gates on the access road so that Mr & Mrs Johnston could no longer get their car to their house. They have also been verbally abused by the farmer. Sgt Jones said he was aware of the drainage but not the gates nor the abuse. He stressed that any verbal abuse constituted a breach of the peace and would be treated as such. Action: Sgt. Jones.
Planning:
Mark Cross, Principle Planning Officer with Moray Council, gave a presentation describing how the Moray Local Plan was prepared and how organisations and individuals could contribute to that process. He had previously sent a letter to SCC outlining the general background of the issue. His presentation was extremely interesting and informative, clarifying many points relating to planning in general and to the Local Plan in particular. On completion, Rhona thanked him for his attendance.
After Mr Cross had left there was some discussion on whether objections should be lodged against any Strathisla Community Council areas in the Local Plan. It seemed that Boharm and Botriphnie were the only areas where there were issues. In the case of Boharm, Innes MacPherson and David McWilliam were charged with preparing an objection aimed at calling for de-zoning of the area in Mulben around the church (the area of interest to Sunhoney Properties). In the case of Botriphnie, Alex Gordon-Duff, James Mark and David McWilliam were charged with preparing any objections relating to Drummuir and Towiemore. In view of the very short time available, any such objections were to be emailed to SCC members for approval/amendment before submission. Action: Innes MacPherson, Alex Gordon-Duff, James Mark and David McWilliam.
Youth Issues:
No update. The Youth Forum has met informally but are not yet fully up and running.
Boharm: Nothing to report.
Botriphnie:
Recycling Bins - This issue is still stalled. Alex said that he (as the landowner of the Recreation Field) wanted a formal, composite agreement for the use of the field for recreational activities, for the proposed path from Tocher Terrace to the Hall, and for the locating of the Recycling Bins. Regan asked whether it was just a matter of their being a formal agreement or whether there would be a payment required for a lease. Alex replied that there would be just a token payment but that he needed the whole issue to be formalised to ensure that any insurance claims relating to the use of the field did not fall on Drummuir Estate. Cllr. Paul asked whether the bins could be located on Council land. The Council owns the School, Tocher Terrace and an area of land between Blackhall Cottage and the Bunkhouse. Locating the bins at the School had already been discounted on the grounds of safety, and Tocher Terrace residents had refused to have the bins on the grassed areas or car park. The piece of Council land between Blackhall Cottage and the Bunkhouse is currently used for grazing for horses and is accessed via a narrow, muddy track so some work (and expense) would be required to fence off the bins and to improve the access road..
Rural Keith and Newmill:
Private Water Supplies - Regan reported that she had been approached by householders who had just moved into a house with a private water supply and had been told by SEPA that their supply must be "absolutely pure". SEPA had apparently claimed that whilst various levels of impurity are permissible in public water supplies, private supplies must be to a far higher level of purity. As a consequence, the householders had been required to pay for the installation of filters and for SEPA to carry out repeated tests of the water quality. Cllr. Watt said that as far as he was aware it was Moray Council, not SEPA, who were responsible for private water supplies. Regan agreed to write to SEPA and to Tracey Rae (Community Council Liaison Officer) at Moray Council to obtain clarification. Action: Regan Walters.
Walkers between Keith & Newmill - Rhona expressed concern at the number of people walking on the road between Keith and Newmill whilst wearing dark or non-reflective clothes. Now that the evenings are getting darker there is a real risk that such walkers will be injured by motor vehicles. For parts of the route it is impractical to provide a footpath or pavement so the only practical solution seems to be to provide street lighting. Rhona and Cllr. Watt are to take the matter up with Moray Council and the Police and will ensure that it is highlighted in the Newmill Newsletter. Action: Rhona & Cllr. Watt.
Broken Manhole Cover - The collapsed gully and hole in the road in South Street has now been repaired.
Disabled Ramp at 6 Hill Street - The wooden ramp for disabled access at 6 Hill Street has been replaced by a concrete one which presents less of an obstruction to other pavement users.
Recycling Bins: Ian reported that residents had been opening the bins using their keys for their gas meter boxes to make it easier to dispose of their rubbish. They had been leaving the bins unlocked and the local children had then opened the bins and removed the paper and spread it around. The result had been extensive littering in the area. The children had also been climbing on the bins and jumping from bin to bin. Rhona undertook to put an article in the Newmill Newsletter asking all users to ensure that they always close and lock the bins after use. Ian also observed that the old bins are still located in the Square. Action: Rhona.
Rothiemay:
Speeding Traffic - Rhona had talked to Gordon Holland about the speeding in Newmill and Rothiemay. The latest figures for School Brae in Newmill showed that nearly all vehicles were adhering to the 30mph limit but that there had been no further progress in getting an Archer system installed in Rothiemay.
Paths - Cllr. Watt reported that a meeting had been held between interested parties in Rothiemay but that it had been most unsatisfactory. The farming community consisting of four or five farmers in the vicinity had absolutely refused to agree to the proposed path. The requirement is for permission from the farmer to allow the path to cross just a few metres of his land to join one piece of forest path to another. The farmer maintains that since the land in question links two of his fields together he needs to be able to have a cattle pen there to enable him to handle his cattle in that area. Part of the problem was that there is a recurring issue of dogs being off the lead in the area and causing conflict with cattle. One dog had already been shot. There may be alternative solutions that will be pursued. Action: Cllr. Watt.
Recycling - Cllr. Watt reported that four possible sites for the location of recycling bins had been identified and had been communicated to Shona Dryburgh but that there had been no feedback as yet.
Den:
Unoccupied Houses - Rhona reported that she had been asked why a number of properties in the Den were empty. Cllr. Watt replied that in one case a property had been let for some time but the tenant had still not moved in. Cllr. Paul stated that sometimes tenants refused to have a property refurbished or improved during their tenure and that when they relinquished the property the Council had to carry out the work before it could be re-let. This sometimes gave the impression that a property was standing empty for no apparent reason.
Grange:
The Keith/Cullen road had been closed for a short time for repairs to be carried out but it was reported that the signs had still not been removed.
Correspondence:
Planning Applications - Planning Application notifications were now being received by email. Thanks to Mark Cross, Principle Planning Officer, for arranging this.
Communication with Moray Council - A letter has been received from Tracey Rae, Community Council Liaison Officer, stating that all emails from SCC to Moray Council should be sent to cclo@moray.gov.uk or to Tracey Rae's personal address of tracey.rae@moray.gov.uk.
Access to Committee Minutes - As a result of a Scottish Executive directive that Moray Council produce £2M in efficiency savings over the next two years, committee minites will no longer be sent to Community Councils in paper form. Instead the will be made available on the Moray Council website.
Risk Management Plan - The Grampian Fire and Rescue Service Risk Management Plan 2006/2007.
A Review of Community Planning in Moray 2001 - 2006.
Moray Community Plan 2006-2007.
AOCB:
JCC - Rhona reported that the JCC had concluded that the Local Neighborhood Forum was duplicating much of the work of Community Councils.
Neighborhood Forum - Jane stated that she believed that the Local Neighborhood Forum was seriously flawed in that nobody involved seems to know what their remit is. Rhona said that there were to be meetings with the auditors of Community Scotland on Tuesday evening in Elgin and Wednesday during the day in Keith. She and Jane would attend one or other of these meetings to put their view that the Local Neighborhood Forum duplicated much of the work performed by the Community Councils.
Drummuir Windfarm - Cllr. Paul reported that she had communicated with Ray Hunter of RES and had been told that the delay was due to having to wait until they could obtain a connection to the electrical grid. Because of this delay he considered it to be too early to talk about the Community Benefit Fund. It was suggested that interested members should contact the Glens of Foundland Community Benefit Fund handling committee for details of how they operated.
SCC Minutes - David McWilliam said that he had now been taking and drafting the minutes for more than a year and now wished to stand down from the duty.
Remembrance Sunday - James Mark agreed to collect the wreaths from the British Legion.
Next Meeting: Wednesday 1st Nov. at 19:30
AGENDA FOR SCC MEETING 4th Oct. 2006
Apologies
Minutes of 6th September Meeting
Matters arising and new issues.
- Planning. Mark Cross from Moray Planning Department will give a presentation on the Local Plan.
- Police Issues
- Youth Issues
- Boharn
- Botriphnie
- Rural Keith & Newmill
- Rothiemay
- The Den
- Grange
- Correspondence
- AOCB
Strathisla Community Council
Minutes 6th September 2006Present:
Rhona Patterson, Regan Walters, Alex Gordon-Duff, Innes MacPherson, David Dillon, June Simpson, June Whitecross, Ian Ross, Jenny Anderson, David McWilliam, Cllr Percy Watt, PC Malcy Smith.
Apologies:
Nancy Cruickshank, James Mark, Jane McPherson, Keith Alderson, Cllr. Pearl Paul.
Meeting Opened: The meeting was opened at 7:30pm with Rhona Patterson in the Chair.
Correction to Minute: Alex Gordon-Duff to be added to those present.
Matters Arising: None.
Minutes of Meeting 5th June 06: Acceptance proposed by Alex Gordon-Duff and seconded by Innes MacPherson.
Police Issues:
Police Patrols - Malcy reported that the "meet the people" patrols to the outlying communities were taking place and would continue.
Parking in Newmill - Malcy reported that the police had talked to all those parking on the pavements on the Main Street and that the practice had now stopped. Rhona confirmed this but said that residents were also complaining of similar problems in other area of Newmill. She requested that the police extend their efforts to the side streets. Malcy agreed and reiterated that the police were seriously concerned at the dangers to pedestrians, particularly children, caused by parking on pavements. Action: PC Smith.
Police Non-emergency Calls - Malcy reported that the police were aware that there were often unacceptably long delays in getting a reply to calls on the non-emergency number. Staffing levels in the call centre were currently being reviewed to try to improve matters. He added that police crime files were submitted to the centre via the same queuing system so the police were also being inconvenienced by the delays. Rhona observed that she had recently called the number three times and had found that the calls were disconnected after waiting for twenty minutes. Malcy said that he had suggested that calls be automatically redirected to a recording system after a few minutes.
Bomakelloch Cottages: There had previously been reports of a scrap metal business being operated from Bomakelloch Cottages but Malcy said he had no update on this. However, he reported that he had been working with Dougie McPhee on the issue of derelict cars in that area. If they had not been removed by their owners by the end of the week they would removed by the authorities.
Vandalism in Newmill - Malcy reported that the information he had received regarding the damage to a wall in Newmill had been incorrect. He had been led to believe that the problem had been damage caused to the end of the wall by a vehicle but the problem reported concerned the deliberate dismantling of another part of the wall by children. Ian said that the wall had been repaired.
Derelict House in Newmill - Malcy reported that the owner of the house was not listed in the telephone directory so the police would visit him in his Cullen residence. Action: P.C. Smith.
Den: Malcy reported that there had been complaints of children in the Den playing football in the midst of the houses. Residents had complained about the children playing football in the playing field so the Council had removed the goalposts, which were in a poor state, and the children had taken to playing amongst the houses instead. Malcy said that he, in concert with the Den Association, would organise the Den children in a fund-raising event to buy new goalposts. The Secretary to contact Grant Speed of Moray Council to get the full background of the goalpost removal. Action: David McWilliam.
Speeding in Newmill: Recent statistics obtained from an "Archer" system in Newmill showed that 150 vehicles per day had been recorded at over 35mph and Rhona asked Malcy whether the police would be taking any action. He replied that mobile cameras were in operation near Keith and that it might be possible for them to spend some time in Newmill. Ian said that parking on the road between the Hall and the School during the school and playschool run was adding to the danger and that some means was needed to slow down traffic and control parking during those periods. Action: PC Smith.
Football in Square: Rhona reported that older youths (approx 20 yr old) were playing football in the square, damaging the floral displays and verbally abusing the women attending to the flowers. Action: PC Smith.
Abandoned Cars: Alex reported that cars had been crashed and abandoned on two recent occasions in Botriphnie. The cars had left the road and been abandoned. The police had been informed and had attached "Police Aware" stickers. Moray Council had also been informed but one of the cars had been set alight before it was removed. Malcy said that the procedure was for the police to inform the traffic wardens, who then arranged for the car to be removed by Williamsons one week later. This was now a free service. Malcy will contact the Traffic Department. Action: PC Smith.
Seat Belts: Rhona asked about the recent law on the use of booster cushions by children under 12 years of age or of less than 135cm in height. Malcy explained the issues relating to the use of booster cushions and belt guides and pointed out that failure to conform to this law carries a £30 fixed penalty fine. Explanatory leaflets are available in the Library and the Police Station as well as on the web.
Planning:
Sunhoney Properties - Following the meeting in Mulben Hall on 1st August 2006, SCC had called in the Application and had lodged an objection with Moray Council. Rhona observed that the objection should have included a statement to the effect that if planning permission was granted the installation of street lighting on the A95 in the Mulben area should be a condition of the approval. This had been inadvertently omitted from the submission and Rhona said that she would contact Planning to determine whether it could be added retrospectively. Action: Rhona.
Application List - The latest list of planning applications was perused and none of those in the Strathisla area gave cause for concern. It was again noted that the 7-day consultation period was too short and David Dillon suggested that Councillor Paul be asked to press for the planning application list be emailed to the SCC secretary at the same time as it was disseminated to the Moray councillors. The SCC secretary would then send the relevant portions to the SCC members. Note that the action on Councillor Paul to get this matter discussed at a full Moray Council meeting will continue. Action: Cllr. Paul.
Youth Issues:
Rhona reported that she had not yet received a reply from Fiona Herd on the issue of getting a young person involved with the SCC. Action: Rhona.
Grange:
No Representative present. Rhona noted that a section of the A95 Keith - Banff road would be closed for up to two weeks and that the notified diversion was via Huntly. She felt that a diversion via Cullen would be shorter and less complicated for those not familiar with the area.
Boharm: Nothing to report.
Botriphnie:
Reseeding of Recreation Field - This is now complete.
Recycling Bins - Shona Dryburgh had visited Drummuir and had identified an area at the corner of the Recreation Field between the Tocher Terrace car park and Ardgaithney as the most suitable location for the bins. She had met with the owner (Alex Gordon-Duff) and discussed the issue but Alex reported that he had not yet received a formal letter requesting permission to place the bins there. David McWilliam to contact Shona. Action: David McWilliam.
Private Water Supplies - David McWilliam had contacted Environmental Health to obtain clarification about the recent European Union Directive regarding private water supplies. The staff were still assessing the implications of the Directive for Moray but their initial reaction was that it would have little affect on on the vast majority of private supplies. A few, such as Towiemore where there are ten residences and the LHS factory, might fall within the more stringent category but this wouldn't be known until later in the year when a full investigation had been carried out.
Towiemore Lay-by - David McWilliam reported that Moray Council Roads Department had resurfaced the edge of the road adjacent to the lay-by at Towiemore and had installed low kerbing between the road and the lay-by to channel the water along the road to a new drain in the entrance to the Towiemore access road. Disappointment was expressed that full-height kerbing had been installed at the end of the lay-by, thereby preventing access to/from the lay-by via the end. This had been reported to the Roads department but no answer had been received.
Rural Keith and Newmill:
Recycling Bins - The recycling bins had been installed and were neat, tidy and well used. The bins for glass recycling in the square should now be removed. Action: Cllr. Watt.
Broken Manhole Cover - The collapsed gully and hole in the road in South Street has still not been repaired. This was first reported in April and has been re-reported every month since. Secretary to draft letter to the Chief Executive and Percy to follow up with Roads Department Actions: Secretary & Cllr. Watt.
Disabled Ramp at 6 Hill Street - Rhona reported that a wooden ramp for disabled access has been installed across the pavement at 6 Hill Street. It is a danger to pedestrians and an inconvenience to pushchair users. Percy will investigate. Action: Cllr. Watt.
Caravan on Hill Street - Rhona reported that a caravan on Hill Street appears to be being used as a residence. An electricity supply cable connecting the caravan to the house is a danger to the public. Percy will investigate. Action: Cllr. Watt.
Derelict House in Square - Percy reported that the derelict house in the square (see Police section) had been assessed as being in a dangerous condition and might require scaffolding to be erected around it to protect the public. This would be at the owner's expense. Ian expressed concern that such scaffolding might be used as a climbing frame by local youngsters. Action: Cllr. Watt.
Rothiemay:
Speeding Traffic - Jenny reported that a "Smiley" had been installed in the village for a week but that it was not in the area where speeding was worst. Rhona asked Percy to request that an "Archer" be installed at the location giving most cause for concern to clarify the extent of the problem. Action: Cllr. Watt.
Paths - At the July meeting it was reported that there was a proposal to create paths on Forestry Commission land but that in one area the path would have to cross a small area of farm land. The farmer had agreed to this but his wife had objected. A meeting has now been arranged between the farmer and the local community with Cllr. Watt in attendance. Action: Cllr. Watt.
Recycling - Percy reported that the proposed site for the bins was adjacent to the crossroads but there had been so many objections that it had to be abandoned. The other potential site was the King George V playing field but the Playing Field Committee had refused permission. At this point no alternative site has been found.
Den:
House Renovation - At the July meeting June had reported that an old persons' house had been subject to flooding and had been worked on by numerous Council workers for at least three months. She considered the amount of day-time and evening man-hours expended, and the number of vehicles involved, to be excessive. Percy explained that the reason was that the resident had been taken ill and was in hospital when a water pipe burst and extensive damage ensued. The result was that a large amount of renovation work had been required. The resident is in hospital long-term and the house has not yet been reoccupied.
Housing Refurbishment and Repair: June queried the procedure for scheduling houses for upgrading or repair. Some seemed to be extensively upgraded even although they are in good repair whilst others in a poorer state are repeatedly patched up. She cited the case of her mother's house, 174 Den Crescent, which was in need of refurbishment but had been repeatedly patched up. Action: Rhona and Cllr. Watt.
Correspondence:
JCC - Notification of a Joint Community Council meeting at 7.30pm on 14th September in Council Chambers, Elgin. Rhona will attend but others welcome.
NHS - Tomorrow's Health Today - A letter and a copy of the Grampian Health Plan booklet. The aim of the plan is to improve health by strengthening local preventative services with more support for self-care, more intensive care management for people with serious long-term conditions, and more capacity for diagnosis and treatment locally.
Keith Library Visit - A letter inviting members to visit Keith Library, and offering to provide a member of Library staff to address the SCC on Library facilities.
Planning Aid - Planning Aid is a government-funded organisation whose purpose is to provide "free, independent and professional town planning advice and support to communities and individuals who cannot afford to pay planning consultant fees". The SCC's annual membership fee of £10 is now due and it was agreed that the treasurer should pay it.
Quality in Planning - A letter inviting communities to enter for the "2006 Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning: Community Involvement Award". Information is available on www.scotland.gov.uk/topics/planning/about/awards or from 01312447538. The closing date for entry has been extended to 22nd September 2006.
Training Event - A letter inviting members to attand a training event "Strategic Fundraising" from 09.00 until 15.45 on Thursday 21st Sept. in Elgin Library. Anyone wishing to attend should contact Reni Milburn (01343 563425) or Mairi McIntosh (01343 563493).
Moray Local Plan - The copy of the finalised version of the Moray Local Plan has been received and is also available on www.moray.gov.uk. The Secretary to
Citizens' Advice Bureau - A letter inviting SCC members to attend the AGM of the Moray Citizens Advice Bureau at 3.30pm on Thursday 14th Sept. in the Gallery of Elgin Library. Anyone wishing to attend should contact the CAB on 01343 550088.
AOCB:
Visit Scotland - June reported that Visit Scotland visited the Community Centre and were generally impressed by it. Their only adverse comment was a lack of brown (tourist) signposts pointing to the Centre.
Private Wind Turbines - Ian reported that B&Q will be selling 1.75m diameter roof-top wind turbines from their Warehouse stores. They will cost £1,600 for purchase and installation with 30% of the cost offset by a government grant.
Drummuir Windfarm Community Benefit Fund - Now that the Drummuir Windfarm has been approved the Secretary has been instructed to draft a letter to RES asking them to outline their plans for handling the Community Benefit Fund.
Next Meeting: Wednesday 4th Oct. at 19:30
AGENDA FOR SCC MEETING 6th SEPT. 2006
Apologies
Minutes of 5th July Meeting
Matters arising and new issues.
- Planning
- Police Issues
- Youth Issues
- Grange
- Boharn
- Botriphnie
- Rural Keith & Newmill
- Rothiemay
- The Den
- Correspondence
- AOCB
Strathisla Community Council
Minutes 5th July 2006Present:
Rhona Patterson, Alex Gordon-Duff, Innes MacPherson, Jane McPherson, David Dillon, June Simpson, Keith Alderson, Ian Ross, Jenny Anderson, David McWilliam, Cllr. Pearl Paul, Cllr Percy Watt, Sergeant Bill Neil
Apologies:
Nancy Cruickshank, June Whitecross, Regan Walters, James Mark.
Meeting Opened: The meeting was opened at 7:30pm with Rhona Patterson in the Chair.
Matters Arising: None.
Minutes of Meeting 5th June 06: Acceptance proposed by Keith Alderson and seconded by Ian Ross.
Planning:
Lower Towie - David McWilliam reported that he had contacted Planning to determine why a Planning Application for a new house to the rear of Lower Towie steading had been withdrawn. The Planning staff were unable to give a reason for the withdrawal but Alex Gordon-Duff (the applicant) said that it was because Planning had said the application could not succeed because it would have resulted in too many households having access to the B9014 at a difficult bend.
Sunhoney Properties - Innes reported that neighbours had received notification that Sunhoney Properties had applied for planning consent to build 18 or 20 houses in Mulben. He said that there was strong opposition on the grounds that the proposed development would result in an increased risk of flooding in the area. Rhona said that SCC would call in the application and would arrange a site visit and meeting to discuss the issue. Action: Rhona.
Planning Consultation - Pearl reported that she had attempted to get the issue of the the 7-day consultation period for Community Council comment onto the agenda for the next Planning Meeting but had been told that this was not the appropriate meeting to deal with it. She and Percy will try to get it on the agenda for the next full Moray Council meeting. Action: Cllrs. Paul & Watt.
Police Issues:
Vandalism at Rothiemay - The instances of vandalism in Rothiemay reported at the 2nd June meeting had been found to be non-criminal. The issue of children climbing on a piece of equipment had been simply a case of retrieving a ball that had stuck there. The report of damage to a basketball net had been found to be due to the net having been incorrectly fitted.
Police Patrols - At the 2nd June meeting Keith Alderson had suggested that the police should routinely call on the outlying communities to make more social contact with the residents, and particularly with the children and teenagers. Sergeant Neil agreed wholeheartedly with the suggestion. He had discussed the matter with Malcy and the previous evening Sergeant Neil and a probationary constable had visited Rothiemay.. Percy said that he had spoken to Inspector McBey and that he had welcomed the introduction of such visits. Percy added that he had also spoken to Dave Crawford, Community Warden to suggest that he also should visit these communities but he has no transport allocation to do so. Sergeant Neil said he would arrange transport as required and also promised to arrange for Mr Crawford to attend an SCC meeting in the near future. Action: Sergeant Neil.
Parking in Newmill - On the issue of parking on pavements in Newmill, Sergeant Neil said that the police had talked to a number of car owners in the area and that the problem should now be resolved. If it arose again the police would issue parking tickets.
Police Non-emergency Calls - On the issue of the long delays experienced when trying to contact the police on the non-emergency number, Sergeant Neil reported that this had been found to be a widespread problem and that steps were being taken to correct it. Mick had emailed and written to the Chief Constable about the matter but, as far as was known, had not received a reply. Sergeant Neil will try to determine why the email had not been answered. Action: Sergeant Neil.
Bomakelloch Cottages - At the 2nd June meeting, James had reported that residents at Bomakelloch Cottages appeared to be dealing in scrap. This would require a license and written permission from Moray Council to carry out a business from a Council House. Sergeant Neil reported that the police had visited the area but had seen no evidence of scrap dealing. He asked that James should contact him about the matter. Action: James.
Vandalism in Newmill - Ian reported that there had been an instance of vandalism in Newmill when children had demolished part of a wall at the school. Sergeant Neil will investigate. Action: Sergeant Neil.
Derelict House in Newmill - Rhona expressed concern that a derelict house in Newmill square, which had been boarded up by Moray Council a month ago, was again being entered by children. Percy said that the owner of the property lived in Cullen and was billed each time it had to be re-boarded. Sergeant Neil will investigate. Action: Sergeant Neil.
Youth Issues: Rhona had contacted Fiona Herd about getting a young person involved with the SCC and had been told that the Youth Forum will be set up after the school summer holidays. She will pursue the matter further at that time. Action: Rhona.
Den:
Car/Lorry Park - June reported that the old car that had been left on the lorry park had now been removed but that there was now a caravan in its place.
House Renovation - She also reported that an old persons' house had been subject to flooding and had been worked on by numerous Council workers for at least three months. She considered the amount of day-time and evening man-hours expended, and the number of vehicles involved, to be excessive. Pearl undertook to investigate. Action: Cllr. Paul.
Grange: No Representative present.
Boharm:
A95 - Innes reported that the road survey on the A95 had been completed but no timescale was available for when repair work would start. Work is ongoing installing French drains (i.e. soakaways) on the Mulben-Craigellachie section of the road.
Boat o' Brig - Drains are currently being installed on the section of road at the Rothes side of Boat o' Brig. The bridge itself is in need of cleaning and repainting. Pearl will ask Moray Council to let her know when this work will be added to the bridge repairs programme. Action: Cllr. Paul.
Bus Shelter - Jane reported that the asbestos roof of the bus shelter at Mulben had been badly damaged by wind and asked that a replacement roof be fitted. Action: Cllr. Paul.
Botriphnie:
Reseeding of Recreation Field - It was not known whether reseeding had been completed on the part of the Recreation Field disturbed by the installation of the new sewerage system. David McWilliam will contact Andy Ducat of Scottish Water. Action: David McWilliam.
Car Park at Tocher Terrace - The car park at Tocher Terrace will be inspected by the Housing Department and a decision reached on whether it can be tarred. Action: Cllr. Paul.
Recycling Bins - A request has been received to site Recycling Bins at Drummuir Hall but it was considered that a more suitable location would be in the area at the top of Tocher Terrace. David McWilliam to contact Shona Dryburgh. Action: David McWilliam.
Private Water Supplies - A recent article in the Press stated that all private water supplies would have to be brought up to a standard specified by a European Union Directive. The Secretary to contact George Murray, Environmental Health (01343-563362) to get details of how it will affect Moray residents. Action: David McWilliam.
Auchindachy & Isla Neuk Bridges - David Dillon reported that the temporary concrete barriers erected on the Auchindachy and Isla Neuk rail bridges had narrowed the bridges and that the foundations of the barriers at Auchindachy are crumbling. He said that large vehicles were having difficulty negotiating the narrowed bridges at Auchindachy and Isla Neuk. He stressed that the community did not want traffic light to be installed. Pearl will obtain details of what the permanent solution will be and what the projected timescales are. Action: Cllr. Paul.
Path across Recreation Field - Alex raised the issue of the proposed path across the Recreation Field behind Ardgaithney. It was decided that the Community Association should pursue it by first contacting Martin Graham, Educational Services. David McWilliam to inform the Drummuir & Botriphnie Community Trust and the Community Association. Action: David McWilliam.
Rural Keith and Newmill:
Recycling Bins - Rhona has talked to Shona Dryburgh and they think that the bins could probably be moved to the car park. The gateway would be widened and the bins positioned to the right of the gateway. Action: Rhona.
School 20mph Speed Limit - Rhona had asked for a 20mph timed speed limit to be installed on Mill Brae between the school and the play school. The reply received stated that this could not be provided because the access to the school is on Isla Road, not on Mi
