SLAN October 2021

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O c t o b eArp2r i0l 2210 2 1

Renton Campus SCOT T ISH SCHOOLS UP THE begins to takeH YTAKE D RO G E N C H A L L E N G E shape Borderlands deal signed up to widespread acclaim Major post-covid Sports Facilities boosts PLUS: Over 40 pages of local authority news

RISK MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE SPECIAL WASTE RECYCLING’S REVOLUTIONARY NEW TOOL scottish local authority news

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1 PLUS - OVER 40 PAGES OF NEWS 1

Green Energy

Facing the future with confidence Gallagher is one of the leading providers of insurance and risk management for the public sector. We’ll work with you to identify the risks you face, deliver best value and design an appropriate solution for your organisation.

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Company Number: SC108909. FP264-2021 Exp. 25.02.2022.

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Contents Contents scottish local authority news

r i2l 12 0 2 1 O c t o b eA rp 20

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April 2021

SPECIAL FEATURES FEATURETHIS ISSUE Borderlands

FEATURES

FEATURE

Borderlands Investment Deal Investment Deal Signed. Exciting Signed.

Times LieExciting Ahead P4–9 Times Lie Ahead

P4

SCOTTISH SCHOOLS TAKE UP THE HYDROGEN CHALLENGE The youth of today harness the energy source of Tomorrow.

P8

ALARM SCOTLAND IS BACK FACETO-FACE AT DUNBLANE. Risk Management leads the way to make “virtual” conferences a thing of the past.

P14 FIRST P4–9DIGITAL TOOL TO UNLOCK

RECYCLING CONFUSION. Zero Waste Scotland provide Scotland’s Council’s with the internet key.

EDUCATION

10–19 ENVIROMENT EDUCATION P16 10–19

ENVIRONMENT 20–23

ROAD & ENVIRONMENT TRANSPORT

20–23

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC ECONOMIC 38–47 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

61–69 HOUSING COMMUNITIES

LIBRARIES & THE ARTS THE ARTS LIBRARIES 48–54 & THE ARTS P38

LEGAL & CORPORATE HEALTH & LEGAL 70 SOCIAL CARE & CORPORATE

P22 38–47

P36

48–54

SOCIAL CARE & HEALTH COMMUNITIES SOCIAL 25–33 CARE & HEALTH P46

FINANCE

25–33

ROADS & TRANSPORT EDUCATION ROADS 34–37 & TRANSPORT P58 34–37

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56–57

TOURISM FINANCE & LEISURE 56–57 P48

HOUSING

58–60 & LEGAL HOUSING PERSONNEL 58–60

P64

COMMUNITIES

P28 61–69

P40 70

Published by West Argyll Technical Publications Ltd PUBLISHED

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No element John Huss of the content is to be Phil founded upon or reproduced except Libby Galbraith, Campbell with the express permission of the publishers. The title and The views contained withinare arethe notintellectual necessarily those ofof the content in its entirety property the publishers, nor of Publications any of the contributors.

No element West Argyll Technical Ltd., Registered office: of the content is to be founded upon or reproduced except 142 Cromwell Road, London SW7 4EF. with the express permission of the publishers. The title and the content in its entirety are the intellectual property of West Argyll Technical Publications Ltd., Registered office: 142 Cromwell Road, London SW7 4EF.

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Green GreenEnergy Energy

STUDENTS SET FOR THE SCOTTISH SCHOOLS’ HYDROGEN CHALLENGE Students across Scotland are taking part in a unique challenge in the run up to COP26 – designing, building and racing a green hydrogen-fuelled vehicle of their own design.

The Scottish School’s Hydrogen Challenge will see groups of three students collaborate to build the most efficient hydrogen-powered vehicle in under two hours. Vehicles that travel the furthest on the zero emission fuel will take part in a Grand Final in Glasgow during COP26.

Over 7,000 second year pupils from Scotland are expected to take part as the challenge visits Fort William, Wick, Inverness, Aberdeen, Dundee, Perth, Stirling, Edinburgh and Glasgow in the run up to the climate change summit.

Regional finals are taking place in each of Scotland’s cities during September and October with the top three teams from each being entered into the Grand Final during COP26 with a chance to win a Lego Robot Inventor amongst other prizes.

Barry Carruthers, Hydrogen Director at ScottishPower, said: “Scotland is about to host one of the most important climate summits ever, COP26, and we want to help bring some of the energy and excitement around COP26 to schools across Scotland with our partners Arcola Energy and ITM Power.

“We’re currently working to deliver a number of green hydrogen projects in Scotland – including the largest green hydrogen facility in the country, but we know that we still have work to do to help educate people about this critical, zero emission fuel and the role it plays in achieving Scotland’s overall Net Zero goals. This green hydrogen Challenge will help engage Scottish students in how green hydrogen can help

decarbonise our daily lives by providing a clean fuel alternative to heavy industries and transport and supporting hundreds of green jobs.”

During the workshops, competitors will find out more about the decarbonisation of transport and the important role it is playing in reaching Scotland’s climate change targets.

The Challenge also offers a chance for members of the community to learn about green hydrogen, its applications and its expected growth over the next decade during evening and weekend workshops. Experts will be on hand to answer any questions about the technology and offer a chance to try your hand at building your own hydrogen-powered vehicle.

The challenge is being delivered by partners Arcola Energy, ITM Power and ScottishPower, a partnership formed to help educate people on the importance of green hydrogen in tackling the ongoing climate emergency.

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Green Energy

Graham Cooley, CEO of ITM Power, said: “It is vitally important we work with young people as they grow up during the rapid shift to a net-zero economy.

We are thrilled to be working with partners Arcola and ScottishPower, who are as passionate as we are about inspiring and upskilling a future generation of scientists and engineers.

These hydrogen-fuelled vehicles are being built by the generation who will inherit the hydrogen technology that we at ITM Power are creating today. We hope to learn as much from them as they do from us.”

Dr Ben Todd, CEO of Arcola Energy said: “Arcola Energy has delivered handson hydrogen education programmes to more than 100,000 students over the past 12 years, as part of our goal to deliver practical solutions to decarbonise transport, many examples of which will be on Scottish roads in the coming years.”

“Based on real engineering principles, our workshops are delivered by our inhouse team working with members of local universities and colleges who will be on hand to help teach students about green hydrogen and its applications – as well as offer a few hints and tips as they work to build their vehicles.”

The Challenge is being supported by the Scottish Cities Alliance and the Hydrogen Accelerator who have played a key role in the coordination of the challenge and helping to educate people on the role of hydrogen in decarbonisation. scottish local authority news

Cllr John Alexander, Chair, Scottish Cities Alliance, Leader Dundee City Council, said:

Professor John Irvine, Chair of the Hydrogen Accelerator at the University of St Andrews, said:

“With COP26 just around the corner there has never been a better time to engage our future leaders, engineers, economists and so much more about how important zero carbon fuel is.”

“On behalf of the Hydrogen Accelerator and the University of St Andrews, I am delighted that we are supporting this exciting Hydrogen Challenge programme, inspiring our young people to take up future careers within sectors such as Hydrogen as it offers such a diverse range of fulfilling career opportunities. The Hydrogen Accelerator also looks forward to continuing to support the ambitions of the Seven Cities and city regions in achieving their decarbonisation targets.

With the abundance of renewable energy and water here in Scotland we have the right ingredients to produce green hydrogen enabling not only the decarbonisation of the transport sector but the opportunity to create innovative solutions, supply chain growth whilst providing citizens with clean, green transport.”

“In the lead up to COP26 the Scottish cities are proud to collectively support this important programme to inspire the next generation of renewable energy engineers who can capitalise on the high skilled jobs we aim to create from our collective investment to position Scotland as one of Europe’s leading early adopters of hydrogen technology. Innovation is happening here and now across the Scottish cities in deploying these technologies at scale to play our part in meeting Scotland’s ambitious net zero target by 2045 and putting the technology in the hands of young people is vital to ensuring that Scotland’s workforce of the future is best placed to reap the economic rewards as part of our just transition.”

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Green Energy

WHAT IS GREEN HYDROGEN? Hydrogen is a chemical element and although there are almost no natural resources of pure hydrogen, it can be manufactured. Just like electricity, hydrogen is an energy carrier that can be easily stored or transported to where it is needed.

Currently there are three different types of hydrogen production and they are differentiated by colour – grey, blue and green.

Green hydrogen is produced when renewable energy is used to derive the hydrogen from a clean source, rather than one that emits carbon. This most commonly involves the electrolysis of water — sending an electric current through the water to separate molecules.

In order for hydrogen to be truly green hydrogen, the electricity used to break down water into the two elements must be produced from renewable sources, such as onshore wind.

Currently, ScottishPower alongside partners ITM Power and BOC are planning a hydrogen production facility at Whitelee Windfarm on the outskirts of Glasgow, the UK’s largest onshore windfarm. This will see electricity generated by a planned solar farm and battery energy storage scheme alongside its 215 turbines used to produce green hydrogen on site, making it 100% green.

This method of obtaining hydrogen could save the 830 million tonnes of CO2 that are emitted annually when this gas is produced using fossil fuels according to the International Energy Agency.

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In contrast, production of grey hydrogen, usually from natural gas, throws off carbon waste while blue hydrogen can be cleaner, it still sees the emissions of carbon produced during the production process captured and stored, or reused.

Hydrogen is a zero-carbon fuel, which means it does not emit polluting gases either during combustion or during production. It’s also easy to store, which allows it to be used subsequently for other purposes and at times other than immediately after its production.

And it can be transformed into electricity or synthetic gas and used for domestic, commercial, industrial or mobility purposes.

In the future, it is believed that low carbon hydrogen could provide cleaner energy for everything bin lorries to distilleries, film shoots to power plants, waste trucks to steel production and diggers, making it an essential technology to reach net zero emissions by 2050 and reduce the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels.

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Green Energy

ScottishPower is the first integrated energy company in the UK to generate 100% green electricity. Our focus is on wind energy, smart grids and driving the change to a cleaner, electric future and we’re investing millions every working day to make this happen.

We’re committed to speeding up the transition to cleaner electric transport, improving air quality and over time, driving down bills to deliver a better future, quicker for everyone.

ScottishPower is a trading name of Scottish Power UK PLC, registered in Scotland (Company No. SC117120) with its registered office at 320 St. Vincent Street, Glasgow, Scotland, G2 5AD

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Alarm

ALARM SCOTLAND CONFERENCE EXAMINES A CHANGING WORLD OF CLIMATE AND WORK ALARM is a not-for-profit professional membership association that has supported risk management professionals since 1991.

With over 900 members, ALARM is unique in that it is run by members, for members, so everyone can get involved.

They provide members with outstanding support including training, guidance and best practice, networking and industry recognition for excellence across risk management.

This year’s Conference agenda is jampacked with informative and educational sessions, whilst delegates can attend exhibitor stands as part of ALARM’s first in-person conference exhibition since 2019. Come and meet the

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experts, and take this all-too rare opportunity to catch up with suppliers and partners.

Several Conference sessions look at the transformation kickstarted by the pandemic, including the changing world of work, an update on social care in Scotland, and post-pandemic business continuity and resilience.

The climate emergency is also moving rapidly up the priority list for many organisations. The theme is particularly relevant as COP26 will be hosted in Glasgow very soon after the Conference, and Police Scotland is presenting

on COP26 risk management, followed by sessions on sustainable buildings and managing electric fleets.

There are many opportunities for learning, continuing professional development, expert insight, live participation, and for networking with members and sponsors. It is certain to be fun too, with a quiz and drinks reception, hosted by Kennedys.

For more information, visit alarmrisk.com/events or contact admin@alarmrisk.com. scottish local authority news

Green Energy

The ALARM support network is invaluable, giving you the ability to call on other members and sponsors for help and advice.

Join the ALARM community now ALARM is unique in that it is run by members, for members, so everyone can get involved.

SUE RUDDOCK Corporate Risk & Insurance Manager, Transport for Wales

Take advantage of our extensive benefits to enhance your professional life!

Regional and virtual events

Industry leading quarterly journal, stronger

ALARM has given me a fantastic networking ability to not just other blue light services, but the public sector as a whole, where I have been able to challenge some of my thinking when setting strategies and understanding risks.

Annual national conference, Scotland conference, exhibitions and risk awards

PENELOPE PAGE Risk & Resilience Advisor, Hampshire Constabulary

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Fortnightly e-alerts Continuing professional development Board and committee opportunities

Visit alarmrisk.com/membership to join or renew now.

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The ALARM Conference is thought-provoking, educational and a good source for networking and sharing ideas with like-minded people.

DEBBIE BOWRING Principal Risk Officer, Lincolnshire County Council

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Alarm

MONDAY 25

YES/NO

10:00 - 10:45 11:30 - 12:15 13:15 - 14:00 13:15 - 14:00 14:15 - 15:00 15:30 - 16:30 TUESDAY 26

YES/NO

9:45 - 10:30 11:00 - 11:45 12:00 - 12:45 13:30 - 14:15 13:30 - 14:15 14:30 - 15:30 10

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Alarm

SESSION 1: THE CHANGING WORLD OF WORK Phil Farrar and Ashley Easen, Risk Management Partners SESSION 2: SUSTAINABILITY OF BUILDINGS Alix Bedford, Zurich Municipal and Ruth Kydd, The City of Edinburgh Council

SESSION 3A: BUSINESS AS USUAL – AN ALTERNATIVE MODEL? Karen Locke, Renfrewshire Council SESSION 3B: COSTS OF MATERIALS FROM A LOSS ADJUSTMENT PERSPECTIVE Graeme Blackie, Sedgwick SESSION 4: COP26 RISK MANAGEMENT Sara Mackenzie, Police Scotland SESSION 5: THE REDRESS SCHEME IN SCOTLAND Rory Jackson and Louise Houliston, Kennedys

SESSION 6: IN CONVERSATION WITH GRAEME MACKENZIE Graeme Mackenzie, Dundee City Council SESSION 7: ELECTRIC VEHICLES/FUTURE FLEET RISKS Philip Morton and Mark Seels, Aon SESSION 8: DATA BREACH CLAIMS Steven McGhee, Zurich Municipal SESSION 9A: RISK ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION Fiona Miller, Police Scotland, Catherine Christie, Shetland Islands Council and Hugh Coyle, Falkirk Council

SESSION 9B: MUSCULO-SKELETAL CLAIMS Pamela Stevenson, Weightmans SESSION 10: BUSINESS SESSION 10: BUSINESS CONTINUITY POST PANDEMIC AND RESILIENCE MOVING FORWARD Stella Matimba, Police Scotland scottish local authority news

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Risk Management

COUNTER-TERRORISM LEGISLATION The change in terrorist threat in the UK over the past few years has seen a movement from Terrorists using large vehicle bombs against infrastructure to less sophisticated incidents using low explosives; knives ad vehicles as a weapon; where people are the intended target. This has seen an increase in attacks at Publically Accessible Locations where members of the public are the targets.

As a result of the changing threat of terrorism on 26th February 2021, the UK Home Office launched, a public consultation to consider how legislation can be introduced to improve the protection of the public from terrorist attacks; called the PROTECT Duty (part of the UK CONTEST Strategy).

This will establish a new legislative standard for those organisations in scope of the duty, to implement and evidence a baseline Counter Terrorism strategy, policy and procedure within their organisation. This will be enforced with sanctions and fines, and should there be an event, and the organisation was found not to have implemented the standard, more serious offences which could include criminal / corporate manslaughter.

The proposed scope breaks down into the following components;

SCOPE OF THE DAY • Owners and operators of publicly accessible venues with the capacity of one hundred persons or more.

• Large organisations employing two hundred and fifty staff or more that operate Publicly Accessible Locations (PAL’s), formerly referred to as Crowded Places.

• A consideration for the PROTECT duty to be used to improve security considerations and outcomes of public spaces. These are open locations which usually have no clear boundaries or well-defined exit or entrance points, such as city centre squares, bridges, beaches, busy thoroughfares or parks.

IMPACT ON STAKEHOLDERS Organisations within the scope of the PROTECT Duty will be expected to consider terrorist threats and implement “reasonably practicable” and appropriate protective security and organisational preparedness measures. “Reasonably practicable” is a well-established term in Fire Safety and Health and Safety legislation. In the same way, many organisations already consider fire safety and health and safety, it is reasonable for them to also consider security risks.

The mitigating measures would vary depending on the size and nature of the organisation but will include; • Risk & Vulnerability Assessment - Access information regarding Threats, assess the Risks and identify Vulnerabilities within their organisation • Implement Risk Controls - Implement mitigation measures and risk controls where appropriate, in order to reduce the highest and most impactful risks • Staff Training & Awareness Programs - Implement freely available ACT (Counter Terrorism) staff training and awareness programs, evidence the training (consider training records) and have a minimum % of staff trained • Counter Terrorism Plans - Establish plans, and ensure all staff are aware of and practice these in response to different types of incidents.

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RiskGreen Management Energy

Good security practices for most will not be about costly physical security measures, but for larger organisations and venues, with more complex operating environments, considerations and mitigating measures will be more significant.

UK GOVERMENT SUPPORT There will be a need to establish a range of appropriate advice and guidance for those in scope so they understand the terrorist threat and attack methodologies, reasonably practicable mitigating measures, and processes to follow, to ensure good security outcomes are achieved. This will build on existing measures such as the Action, Counter Terrorism (ACT) e-learning modules, the ACT App and the planned NaCTSO Information Sharing Platform, which will centralise all CT information and advice for business and the public instead of this being spread across multiple departments and agencies.

COMPLIANCE OPTIONS, INSPECTION AND ENFORCEMENT Inspection, enforcement and compliance will be undertaken with sanction fines deployed by inspectors as required (additional work is ongoing to develop the nature of an inspection and enforcement regime and who would undertake this function)

WIDER IMPLICATIONS The PROTECT Duty will establish a “reasonably practicable” best practice standard that is highly likely to expand across non-PROTECT related organisations as it sets a minimum standard, best practice baseline for CT, that any organisation would be hard pressed to justify why they have not implemented, even if they do not come directly under the PROTECT scope.

Author: Justin Priestley GM, Head of Crisis Management Consulting Practice, Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Ltd Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 7th Floor, 55 Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909. FP1623-2021. Expiry date 28/9/2022

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Recycling Energy

FIRST DIGITAL TOOL LAUNCHED TO HELP SCOTS RECYCLE MORE A new online platform has been created to help people across Scotland recycle more often and more efficiently.

The new Recycling Sorter website, launched by Zero Waste Scotland, is the first digital recycling tool designed to combat confusion and help Scotland meet its future recycling targets. The tool allows for residents to search what items can be recycled, and in which bin, in any Scottish local authority.

The Recycling Sorter was launched to mark the recent, highly successful Recycle Week, which is also supported by Zero Waste Scotland and which celebrates recycling across the country.

It is the one week of the year where businesses, schools, local authorities, the public sector, waste management companies and many more, come together and spur the public into recycling more of the right things, more often. In reality, it is a template for how we should behave fifty two weeks of the year and the Recycling Sorter now makes that a more practical and realistic goal.

Research carried out by Zero Waste Scotland has shown that a third of Scots often aren’t sure about which items can and can’t be recycled and almost half of Scots admit that they could increase the amount of recycling they do.

The creation of the new Recycling Sorter will help simplify and bring clarity to recycling, ensuring that all households across the country are recycling more of the right things in the right places and reducing the

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amount of recyclable items ending up in landfill.

It is the centrepiece of a new Zero Waste Scotland campaign, called It’s Time to Get Recycling Sorted, which aims to help increase the nation’s recycling abilities, assisting householders throughout Scotland to know where to go for up-to-date information and to build awareness of how to recycle correctly.

Progress has slowed in increasing recycling rates in recent year. There are a number of reasons for this, but the Recycling Sorter aims to tackle a key one; confusion among householders about what can be recycled right now. Zero Waste Scotland research shows that one third of people are confused about what goes in which bin, and that around two thirds of items in the general bin could have been recycled. Therefore, there are gains to be made in making it simpler for householders to understand their recycling system.

Councillor Gordon Edgar, Executive Member for Infrastructure, Travel and Transport at Scottish Borders Council, commented: “When it’s done right, recycling is one of the easiest everyday actions we can take to reduce our carbon footprint.

“Finding clear and simple solutions to help educate our residents around what can and can’t be recycled plays an extremely important part in reducing the levels of waste that reach landfill and the new Recycling Sorter website can make a real difference.

“Scotland has set ambitious targets of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045 and recycling 70% of Scottish household waste by 2025 and everyone has an important part to play in helping achieve those targets.”

Ray Georgeson, Head of Resource Management, Waste and Recycling at Zero Waste Scotland, said: “We know there’s confusion out there scottish local authority news

Recycling Energy surrounding recycling different materials and products at home.

The Recycling Sorter takes people back to basics and cuts through confusion.

“The user-friendly tool will inform people of what items can and can’t be recycled and how to prepare items for recycling – such as wash, squash, sort – and includes hints and tips to make it easier at home.

“The national recycling rate is not going in the right direction fast enough and we need to act now to transform our national recycling performance. Research carried out

by Zero Waste Scotland revealed that nearly half the population could definitely increase the amount of recycling they do. It’s Time to Get Recycling Sorted.”

If you’re not sure what to recycle in your area visit Zero Waste Scotland’s Recycling Sorter for all the information you need www. recyclingsorter.scot

#RecyclingSorter

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Enviroment

“WE DON’T JUST LET ANYTHING IN THE GENERAL WASTE BIN.” Use our new Recycling Sorter to check before you chuck at

recyclingsorter.scot 16

It’s time to get recycling sorted scottish local authority news

Environment Enviroment

ICONIC LOCH AND WOODLANDS TO HELP TACKLE Iconic Loch and Woodlands to Help Tackle Climate Crisis CLIMATE CRISIS The banks and forests surrounding one of Scotland’s iconic lochs are to boost the fight against the climate crisis by becoming a carbon emissions sink.

Plans being developed by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) will see Scottish Water’s lands and catchment areas around Loch Katrine increasingly soak up emissions from human activity which cannot otherwise be eliminated.

The 8-miles long freshwater loch – which ment is a jewel in Scotland’s natural envisupplies water to 1.3 million people in ronment crown. People live, work and much of the Greater Glasgow area and oth- play there and it has an essential part in er parts of the Central Belt every day via in- the dai-ly lives of around a quarter of the frastructure built by Victorian pioneers – Scottish population who receive their is surrounded by 9000 hectares of land water supply from the loch. man-aged by Forestry and Land Scotland.

Together the two organisations are working to maximise the biodiversity benefits of around 5000 hectares - an area broadly equivalent to the size of the city of Dundee - to lock up greenhouse gases and ensure

“The surrounding woodland, rivers and landscapes not only shape the lives of thou-sands of people locally and further afield, but they are a become a vital component in our work to mitigate the impact of the climate crisis.

visitors and local communities can contin- “We are working to reduce emissions ue to enjoy the natural environment in the across the whole network which produces 1.5 bil-lion litres of water per day for area. customers and collects, cleans and A consultation is ongoing with local com- recycles waste wa-ter, returning it to the environment. But some emissions simply munities on future land management plans cannot be prevent-ed. Vibrant forests and for Loch Katrine. peatlands act as a sink for them and lock them up stopping them emitting into the Using the environment to act as a natural atmosphere. sink for greenhouse gases on such a scale will play a vital role in achieving the net “Smart approaches to peatland zero emissions targets set out by Scottish restoration, planting and re-planting, Water. forest and land management, natural regeneration and bi-odiversity will mean The public water and waste water organi- Loch Katrine, for dec-ades and longer to sation published its Net Zero Emissions come, will be a valuable asset to our Routemap in September 2020 and pledged communities. to achieve net zero status by 2040 – but go We cannot plant our way out of the beyond that by working with others to climate crisis. But biodiversity can help achieve similar gains. reduce the impact of activities on the very environ-ment we rely on for our water.”

Dr Mark Williams, Scottish Water’s sustain-ability and climate change Making use of native tree species where manager, said: “Loch Katrine and its possible will minimise ground surrounding catchdisturbance

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and encourage natural colonization, with planting taking place where the seed source is scarce or where a greater mix of species is required.

This approach will blend with the work that FLS is already doing - such as the significant juniper planting in the extensive ancient woodland that rings the loch - and the ongoing management of the Ben A’an and Brenachoile Woods SSSI / Trossachs Woods SAC. The project will also benefit the diversity of wildlife in the area, which includes badgers, bats, a huge variety of birds and particularly rare species, such as the Pearl Bordered Fritillary butterfly.

FLS’ Operations Forester for Loch Katrine, James Hand, said: “There is a huge variety of wildlife in the area and we’re currently carrying out a large survey to update our data on open habitats at Katrine to help inform our management decisions.

“We’ll be looking at how habitat enhancement can benefit the many species to be found here, also taking care to avoid planting in areas where it will be of detrimental impact on key species – such as Golden Eagle - and priority habitats such as peatland and upland heathland.’’

“This careful, considered approach will bring significant, long-term benefits for wildlife. It’s all about finding the right balance.”

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Environment

Enviroment

Highland’s Transition to Net-Zero Emissions Progressing

HIGHLANDS’ PROGRESSES TO NET ZERO EMISSIONS Highland Council’s E480K invest-ment in the Recovery, Improve-ment and Transformation Fund to support the local authority’s tran-sition to net zero emissions is pro-gressing well.

Members of Highland Council’s Econo-my and Infrastructure Committee were recently provided with an update on the progress being made by the Climate Change and Energy Team.

The funding was geared to supporting three key areas: the development of cor-porately agreed hydrogen and low car-bon heat strategies; the identification and development of energy and fleet projects with partners that can secure external funding, with a specific focus on decarbonisation of the Council’s fleet; and development of a net zero action plan for the Council, identifying key ar-eas of focus across services with a view to developing outline project plans and funding bids.

Today’s report provided members with an update on the progress to date and set out some opportunities about how the re-maining budget could be allocated.

The RIT funding approval enabled the Climate Change and Energy Team to ap-point a dedicated Project Manager, who leads on the development of both hydro-gen and low carbon heat strategies which will put the Council at the forefront of the national energy transition.

Work already undertaken includes: • An assessment of the current policy landscape from both hydrogen and low carbon heat perspectives from a local and national level.

• Meetings with internal key stakeholders with a direct interest and involvement in shaping hydrogen and low carbon heat strategies.

• Internal discussions about the opportunities and challenges in respect of decarbonisation of the Council’s estate and fleet. It is recognised that a cohesive,

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long-term strategy is vital and that focus needs to be on rationalisation of assets and building fabric improvement.

• Meetings with the Scottish Governmment which recognised Highland as a major contributor to the national hydrogen strategy. Highland Council has been invited to prepare a proposal, co-funded by the Scottish Govemment, to fully understand the scale of opportunity and early wins that could be realised through the development Of the hydrogen economy across the region.

• Following a funding call in late July Highland Council has applied for £50K to enable the local authority to advance work carried out under the region’s, Scottish Governmment commissioned, Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategy.

• Highland Council has been working with Aberdeen City Council who has provided a hands-on introduction to their hydrogen heavy goods fleet as well as the operation of a generation and refuelling site. Funding has been offered to the Council to assist with the conversion of some of Highland’s own heavy goods vehicles.

• Agreement has been reached with The Procurement Partnership Ltd, to co-create a new Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) for hydrogen and EV infrastructure to assist in making the transition to low carbon transport.

The Council’s fleet accounts for 17% of its total corporate carbon footprint and the Scottish Government has set an ambition for all local authorities to decarbonise their light commercial fleet vehicles (un-der 3.5 tonnes) by 2025 and their heavy fleet vehicles no later than 2030.

Today’s report recognises the importance of the strategic deployment of EV charging infrastructure across the region and the Council is drawing up a plan to support this transition.

The EV Infrastructure team will now manage the Council’s funding award from Switched-on Towns and Cities going forward (expected to be El 26K for 2021/22) directing much of this towards installing EV infrastructure across the Council’s estate.

The EV Infrastructure team will now manage the Council’s funding award from Switched-on Towns and Cities going forward (expect-ed to be El 26K for 2021/22) directing much of this towards installing EV infrastructure across the Council’s estate.

Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Trish Robertson, said: “The funding awarded through RIT to Climate Change is for two separate purposes; to cover staff costs for specific project related work, and to enable the identification of key finan-cial and nonfinancial opportunities around the net zero agenda for Highland.

“A significant opportunity to put Highland at the forefront of the national transition to net zero relates to the proposed development of a hydrogen hub as part of the Opportunity Cromarty Firth freeport proposal.

“Following Members’ endorsement of this project at a meeting of Highland Council on 25 March 2021, an allocation of É20K has been made from the available fund-ing to co-fund the bid writing process which is being undertaken by KPMG.”

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Environment

Enviroment

‘ENERGYcontinues FROM WASTE’ OPERATIONAL Progress on Energy from WasteSOON Plant

The NESS energy from waste facil-ity which will create energy from nonrecyclable waste is on target for commissioning to start as planned in Spring next year with the facility fully operational by the end of that year, a committee was told recently.

Aberdeen City Council’s capital programme committee agreed an update which told the large majority of engineering and design work is now successfully concluded and procurement of subcontractors to under-take the construction, manufacture and in-stallation of plant components is also near-ly complete.

The Ness Energy Project Residual Waste Treatment plant is being build by Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, and Moray Council to dispose of non-recyclable waste by creating energy, and the main con-tractor is Acciona Industrial and Acciona Servicios Urbanos.

Aberdeen City Council capital programme

committee convener Councillor Marie Boulton said: “The progress at the site is great and it is good to hear the facility is on target to start commissioning and be fully functional next year.

“We look forward to hearing more updates at committee” A report to committee said the large major-ity of engineering and design work is now successfully concluded and procurement of sub-contractors to undertake the con-struction, manufacture and installation of plant components is also nearly complete.

Manufacture of many components of the boiler, turbine, generator and flue gas treatment systems is now largely complete with these items either installed or in stor-age in Aberdeen ready for installation. To date, the contractor has not reported any significant supply chain issues that will af-fect the works programme.

Progress on site has continued broadly in line with the revised programme with the

formation of the waste bunker super- and substructure is now complete. Installation of the steel structure for the waste reception hall on the northern boundary of the site is now underway. The erection of the steel framework for the boiler is close to com-pletion and installation of the boiler is well advanced. The turbine and generator set are now installed with the building steelwork also complete.

The report said significant progress has been made on the installation of the Flue Gas Treatment system and the 80m stack was erected in June 2021.

Many other peripheral activities have also been commenced such as installation of the air-cooled condensers and foundations for electrical buildings, weighbridges and fire control systems.

The report said current indications are that commissioning is anticipated to commence as planned in Spring 2022 with the facility fully operational by the end of 2022

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scottish local authority news

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Environment Enviroment

INNOVATIVE NEW HYDROGEN GENERATION AND FUELLING DPS LAUNCHED

Innovative new hydrogen generation and fuelling DPS launched

The Highland Council and The Procurement Partnership Ltd (TPPL) have launched a new Hydrogen generation and fuelling Dynamic Purchasing System, helping councils across the UK to decarbonise transport.

This marks an exciting new partnership between TPPL and The Highland Council and is the first hydrogen DPS of its kind available for the public sector. With the interest in hydrogen as a clean fuel for transport attracting strong interest up and down the UK, a number of councils are already taking action.

The new DPS will provide a quick, compliant and simple solution to procuring the latest low and zero carbon hydrogen infrastructure, with access to key suppliers at the forefront of hydrogen generation and fuelling technology. The scope covers a variety of temporary and permanent infrastructure solutions ranging from mobile refuelling solutions, mini hydrogen dispensers, self-contained hydrogen refuelling units, on-site stored hydrogen containers, hydrogen refuelling stations and hydrogen production plants including regional hubs.

The ongoing hydrogen supply for vehicle fuelling category includes; Grey, Blue, and Green hydrogen, and also hydrogen produced from nuclear (Pink) sources. Category 4 includes the disposal, disassembly, and recycling of precious metals, and other elements within EV Batteries. Also featuring is the repurposing of batteries, to include any necessary refurbishment, for use in a variety of applications. Examples include energy storage (both domestic and commercial), mobile power units, storage to store energy at renewable production facilities (e.g. solar arrays), and emergency power storage (e.g. for use after natural disasters).

The Highland Council, TPPL, and other Contracting Authorities from across the UK

recognise the move towards zero emission vehicles is accelerating due to the Government’s plans to launch a ‘world-leading hydrogen economy’. It says that by 2030, hydrogen could play an important role in decarbonising polluting, energy-intensive industries like chemicals, oil refineries, power and heavy transport like shipping, HGV lorries and trains, by helping these sectors move away from fossil fuels. The resulting UK-wide hydrogen economy could be worth £900 million and create over 9,000 high-quality jobs by 2030, potentially rising to 100,000 jobs and worth up to £13 billion by 2050.

TPPL’s wider comprehensive procurement solutions are strategically being developed to facilitate the mass uptake of alternatively fuelled vehicles for Public Bodies. A key part of this initiative is the appointment of suppliers who are at the forefront of new generation hydrogen technology; in addition to support utilising TPPL’s industry knowledge and expertise.

tential the emerging hydrogen economy is going to provide in terms of delivering net zero, and we’re delighted to be working with The Procurement Partnership to deliver a solution which will make this transition easier for public sector partners across the country.”

Keith Sergison, TPPL’s Business Development Manager for Scotland commented: “This procurement solution is a major step forward in allowing Public Sector Bodies to access a compliant and competitive route to market in support of the decarbonisation of their current vehicle fleets. Promotion of the UK Governments Hydrogen strategy and the road to net zero has been a major influence in the decision to create this unique solution.”

Cllr Trish Robertson, Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee and Climate Change Working Group said: “The Council recognises the enormous po-

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scottish local authority news

Enviroment

Environment

Yes Recycling announces new facility in Fife with creation of up to 60 jobs

YES RECYCLING ANNOUNCES NEW FACILITY IN FIFE CREATING 60 NEW JOBS Buckinghamshire-based, privately owned recycling specialist, Yes Recycling has announced its plans for a state-of-the-art recycling facility in Glenrothes, Fife with the creation of up to sixty jobs.

Yes Recycling, an experienced recycler of hard-to-recycle plastics (including bank notes, POS garment hangers, printed packaging film and post-industrial and construction waste-streams) has invested multiple millions of pounds into the mid-Fife facility, which will open in late October.

It has received £520,000 from the Circular Economy Investment Fund, administered

by Zero Waste Scotland with funding from the European Regional Development Fund and the Scottish Government. location for our first plant of this kind.

The plant will feature new state-of-the-art patented recycling technology and will recycle 15,000 tonnes per annum of lowgrade post-consumer plastic. This will then be processed into pellets and flake, as well as creating a new generation of high strength Ecosheet, an alternative to plywood.

The new generation Ecosheet will positively impact the construction and manufacturing sectors. The new product is as strong as plywood, in line with plywood pricing, and with a much greater life span than plywood. Ecosheet also diminishes the environmental impact that plywood has as it is recyclable at end of life.

Much of the recycling material for the factory will come from Dunfermline-based Cireco, as well as some commercial streams. The new factory will create up to 60 jobs, which recruitment started for in August, for a wide range of roles including office management and facility floor.

Omer Kutluoglu, Co-Founder and Director of Yes Recycling, commented: “Opportunities are limitless for the recycling industry in Scotland, with local authority and Omer Kutluoglu, Co-Founder and Director of Yes Recycling, commented: “Opportunities are limitless for the recycling industry in Scotland, with local authority and government guidance focusing on making a change for the better. Investment in change is evident across Scotland, and for us, Fife is the ideal Page scottish local authority news

“We’ve been well supported by Fife Council’s InvestFife services, which have included business and employability support. We look forward to the continuation of this work enabling positive changes to Fife’s environmental sustainability and local economy.”

Omer added: “The installation of machinery and recruitment is imminent. Yes Recycling will be able to open our new facility in late October, which timely coincides with the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow.”

Scottish Development International (SDI) and Fife Council Economic Development’s InvestFife services have been working in partnership to assist with business and employability support, which has helped Yes Recycling’s innovative and sustainable project come to fruition in Fife.

Mark Hallan, Director of Global Investment, SDI at Scottish Enterprise, said: “Yes Recycling’s plans for a new facility in Fife will not only provide a jobs boost to the region, but also support Scotland’s sustainable, green ambitions. “As part of our ongoing efforts to attract inward investment to all of Scotland’s communities, SDI is committed to working in partnership with regional organisations, such as InvestFife.

Yes Recycling’s decision to locate in Glenrothes shows that collaborative approach is delivering results.”

Opportunities Fife is supporting with the recruitment of up to 60 new roles, enabling skills matching and career progression for the local community, whilst Business Gateway Fife has provided support with alternative financing options through public and private agencies, workforce upskilling and access to Expert Help resources, including brokering relationships with a variety of local partner organisations to ease the transition into the Fife economy.

Councillor Altany Craik, Convenor - Economy, Tourism, Strategic Planning and Transportation Committee, welcomed the launch of the new recycling facility. He said: “This is a particularly welcome inward investment within mid-Fife. In the current environment, it really is a fantastic opportunity for Glenrothes and its local community. The positives are boundless in terms of creating jobs, supporting the local economy, as well as strengthening our commitment to the local Climate Action Plan and sustainability.

“The announcement by Yes Recycling is testimony to the attractiveness of Fife as an accessible and desirable location for such an innovative enterprise. I’m excited to see the new facility in operation later this year, and to understand more about how, as a region, we can be smarter with waste.”

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Economic Developement Leisure

EXCITEMENT BUILDS AS WORK FORGES AHEAD Excitement as work forges ahead on new Allander development ON NEW builds ALLANDER DEVELOPMENT

A new era is taking shape as construction progresses on the multi-million pound Allander Leisure and Day Care Centre.

2022, with the final project forecast to be completed by summer 2023. Phase involves the decommission and demolition of the existing leisure centre, with phase three being the construction of a new

Councillor Andrew Polson, Joint Leader of the Council, added, “It has been a long road to reach this milestone stage and I want to thank everyone who has taken part in the journey - including local resi-

The Council is redeveloping the current Bearsden site as part of a E42.5 million

‘Sportsdrome’ and final car park works.

dents, organisations and partners.

investment - including a new, state-ofthe-art sports and leisure complex, as well as a support centre for adults with

Councillor Vaughan Moody, Joint Leader of the Council, said, “l am delighted to see a new era taking shape for the Allander,

“Allander Leisure and Day Care Centre represents a major capital investment by the Council and will help to change local

learning disabilities.

with work progressing well on this stateof-the-art project. It’s an exciting time

lives for the better. I can’t wait to welcome the completed project, which will

The foundations have been successfully laid and construction of the steel frame

for everyone involved as we look forward to welcoming this multi-million pound complex - including support facilities for adults with learning disabilities.

offer a range of facilities to help inspire and support people of all ages.”

is almost complete - with the final bolts being put in. Main contractor McLaughlin & Harvey plans to commence ‘envelope workS in the coming weeks, which will include roofing, walls, windows, doors, floors and more.

The centre is due to open in autumn

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“We have worked with our partners to ensure the existing Allander Leisure Centre

The new Allander Leisure and Day Care Centre will include: • An eight-lane swimming pool and a

is able to continue to operate, where possible, while work is carried out.”

20m training pool with movable floor • Sauna and steam vitality room

scottish local authority news

Economic Developement Leisure

• Hydrotherapy pool Gym and high & low • State-of-the-art spin room • Eight-court games hall • Two squash court • Wet and dry changing facilities • Café • ‘Sportsdrome’ - including ONO football pitches and a tennis court.

There will also be a new support facility created for adults with learning disabilities replacing Kelvinbank Resource Centre in Kirkintilloch - which will include: • Flexible meeting rooms, quiet spaces and office • Dementia, rebound, sensory and physiotherapy treatment rooms.

scottish local authority news

• Arts & crafts, dance and music rooms • State-of-the-art changing rooms • Training kitchen for learning.

McLaughlin & Harvey is the main contractor and architectural design is by Holmes Miller, with support from Doig+Smith, Brown + Wallace and planning consultancy Barton Willmore.

Work has been carried out with partners including East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, and East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership.

As part of the agreement with McLaughlin & Harvey, the contractor has engaged with the community throughout the

project.

Managing Director Paul Griffen said, “McLaughlin & Harvey is delighted to be working with East Dunbartonshire Council to deliver Allander Leisure and Day Care Centre.

“From the commencement of this exciting project, we have been working in partnership with the Council and supporting the local community. It has been a really positive experience to date and we will continue to input into local projects, employment and skills throughout the duration of the project.”

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Economic Development Economic Developement Economic Development

PLANS FOR THE REGENERATION OF THE WESTER AREAofTAKE A BIG Plans forHAILES the regeneration the Wester HailesSTEP area takeFORWARD a big step forward

Plans for the regeneration of the Wester Hailes area take a big step forward

The City of Edinburgh Council toThe of Edinburgh Council today City announced the appointment of day announced the appointment of the consultancy team that will work the consultancy team that work with the community to will translate with community to translate theirthe vision into a masterplan for their vision into a masterplan for the area. the area.

This important commission has been awarded to multicommission disciplinary consultant This important has been team led by Turner and Townsend, who awarded to multi disciplinary consultant will act as project managers, together team led by Turner and Townsend, who withact partners Stallon Brand (architects, will as project managers, together lead designer and commuinity engagewith partners Stallon Brand (architects, ment), Atelier 10 (building services and lead designer and commuinity engagesustainability), OOAB (landscape archiment), Atelier 10 (building services and tects) and Goodson Associates (engisustainability), OOAB (landscape archineering and transportation). tects) and Goodson Associates (engineering and transportation).

Setting out a comprehensive, phased approach for the next 15 years, the Wester Setting out a comprehensive, phased apHailes masterplan will build on commuproach for the next 15 years, the Wester nity asspirations as set out in the Local Hailes on commuPlace masterplan Plan as wellwill as abuild number of early nity asspirations as set out in theunderLocal action projects that are already Place Plan as well as a number of way. These include improvements toearly action projects are and already underexisting Councilthat homes estates, deway.

These include improvements to at livery of new-build affordable homes existing Council homes and estates, Dumbryden Gardens early design workdelivery of new-build affordable homes at

Dumbryden Gardens early design work

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for the replacement of the high school, as in our city, together with employment for the replacement of the high school, as in our city, and together withfor employment well as improvements to Westside Plaza. opportunities facilities small well as improvements to Westside Plaza. businesses opportunities and facilities forthe small and entrepreneurs in businesses and entrepreneurs in the The Plan will seek to maximise distincarea to prosper.

Thecharacteristics Plan will seekoftothe maximise distincarea to prosper. tive area including

tivecanal-side characteristics of the area including its location, existing assets, its canal-sideforlocation, existing opportunities wider economic andassets, social benefits and role economic of key partners opportunities forthe wider and soand local and community with cial the benefits the role working of key partners

Throughout the development of the masThroughout development the masterplan we willthe look to actively of engage with peoplewe in Wester Hailes and nearby terplan will look to actively engage communities feed in to Hailes help these with peopletoin Wester and imnearby

the and community the community: the masbenefit everyone. andCouncil the local working with provements communities to feed in to help these imterplan team and will the lookcommunity: at opportunities to the Council the masprovements benefit everyone. implement improvements trans- to The appointment of the right team to terplan team will look at existing opportunities port and active travel infrastructure, theappointment community’s ambitions for their implement improvements existing new trans- take The of the right team to housing-led developments and adapting area forward was critical and we believe port and active travel infrastructure, new take the community’s ambitions for their public sector developments delivery modelsand all adapting firmly thearea award-winning ledand

by Turner housing-led forward wasteam, critical we believe rooted in. & Townsend will meet our goals. We look public sector delivery models all firmly the award-winning team, led by Turner forward to working together with the rooted in. & Townsend will meet our goals. We look Western Hailes is also one of the first team and community as the masterplan forward to working together with the communities in Scotland to start to dedevelops over the coming year.

Western Hailes is also one of the first team and community as the masterplan velop its own local Place Plan following communities in Scotland to start to dedevelops over the coming year. their introduction within the Planning It’s fantastic to be getting this regeneravelop its own local Place Plan following (Scotland) Act in 2019. This is a hugely tion project under way with this key ap their introduction within the Planning It’s fantastic to be getting this regeneraimportant project that will offer real oppointment. A priority for us, on award(Scotland) for Actpeople in 2019.

This isHailes. a hugely ingtion underhas way with key ap portunities in Wester this project commission, been to this engage

important project that will offer real op- fully pointment.

A priority for us,and on enawardwith the local community portunities for people in Wester Hailes. ing this commission, has been to engage The investments which the masterplan sure that the Council’s regeneration profully with the the local communityideas and ensets out will include improvements to gramme reflects asspirations, The investments which the affordable masterplan and sure that the Council’s regeneration existing homes as well as new actions emerging from the Localprosets outthat will include improvements to Place gramme reflectstothe asspirations, ideas housing is so desperately needed Plan process date. existing homes as well as new affordable and actions emerging from the Local housing that is so desperately needed

Place Plan process to date.

scottish local authority news

Economic Development Economic Development

Economic Developement

The community consultation process Theinclude community consultation process will speaking to key public secwill include speaking to key public sector partners, those who have assets withthosewho whouse have assets withintor thepartners, area, those existing land in the area, those who use existing land and buildings on a long-term or meanand buildings on a long-term or meanwhile basis, and the communities within while basis, and the communities within the regeneration area and surrounding the regeneration area and surrounding neighbourhoods. All this will be fundaneighbourhoods. All this will be fundamental to the overall success of the promental to the overall success of the proposals the team produce for us to take posals the team produce for us to take forward to the next phase. forward to the next phase.

James Darrie, Director and Edinburgh ofJames Darrie, Director and Edinburgh office leader fice leaderatatTurner Turner&&Townsend, Townsend, said: said: We welcome the news We welcome the news that that Turner Turner & & Townsend Townsendhave havebeen beenappointed appointed and and that that

scottish local authority news

this important project will be starting in The goal has been to ensure that the this important project will be starting in The goal has been Local to ensure the will 2021. WHALE Arts, From upgrading transcommunity-led Placethat Plan 2021.

WHALE Arts, From upgrading transcommunity-led Local Place Plan will port systems to delivering new affordable be aligned to the regeneration project port systems delivering newregeneration affordable beso aligned to the regeneration homes, this tomuch needed that local views and ideasproject are at the homes, this much needed regeneration so that local views and ideas are at the to promises to bring transformative longheart of changes and improvements promises to bring term benefits to thetransformative Wester HailleslongArea. term benefits to the Wester Hailles Area.

Our local team will work closely with Our local team will work closely with the community to ensure it becomes the the community to ensure it becomes the thrieving and flourishing neighbourhood thrieving and flourishing neighbourhood that residents want and deserve. that residents want and deserve.

heart changes improvements to the of area.

This and builds on the Westside the area. This builds on the Westside Plaza design process which was led by Plaza design process which was led by the Wester Hailes Community Trust and the Wester Hailes Community Trust and has resulted in an improved social area, has resulted in an improved social area, giving local residents an idea of how imgiving local residents an idea of how important it is for regeneration to be led by portant it is for regeneration to be led by Wester Hailes Community Trust and Prospeople living in the area.

Wester Hailes Community Trust and Prospeople living in the area. pect Housing have been working alongpect Housing have been working alongside the the Council Council for forthe thelast last1818months months side following a piece of work in 2019/2020 following a piece of work in 2019/2020 workingtowards towardsaaLocal LocalPlace PlacePlan.

Plan. working

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Economic Development

Economic Developement

First Tweedbank development nears completion

FIRST TWEEDBANK DEVELOPMENT NEARS COMPLETION The first new office development within the Central Borders Business Park at Tweedbank is now nearing completion and is expected to be handed over by the building contractors to the Council in late September.

SBC’s IT service provider CGI will take up occupation as a tenant of the building later in the year following a fit-out process, as part of a regional commitment to secure and provide local employment opportunities.

Councillor Simon Mountford, Executive Member for Enhancing the Built Environment and Natural Heritage, said: “It is hugely encouraging to see this development taking shape as key milestones are met.

“An absolutely crucial aspect of the business park is that it should support and cre

ate local employment opportunities so it is

The Council is also in the process of assess-

extremely positive news that CGI will soon occupy this key location.”

ing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the commercial property market. This will inform future developments associated

CGI currently employs more than 70 people in the Borders with a further 56 vacant positions advertised. The company aims to achieve a headcount of circa 130 jobs by the

with phases two and three of the Tweedbank project.

end of this year with the majority of these jobs based at the new Tweedbank building.

park, business planning is going ahead for the development of a residential care village at Tweedbank. Further reports will be

As part of the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal, development of the Central Borders Business Park continues to progress, with the first phase of

brought back to the Council on these plans.

construction nearly completed.

print programme, which aims to maximise the opportunities presented by the railway.

Following approval by Council of Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) earlier this year, enabling works at further areas of Tweedbank are also now able to be progressed, subject to the necessary planning consents. These include the development of an access road and services into the former Lowood Estate.

In addition to the progress of the business

Part funding for the Tweedbank development comes from the Borders Railway Blue-

The Blueprint Programme includes involvement from partners including Scottish Enterprise, Transport Scotland, VisitScotland, Scottish Government, Midlothian Council, the City of Edinburgh Council, Abellio ScotRail and Network Rail.

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scottish local authority news

Green Energy

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27 fmb.org.uk

Housing Housing

Housing HOUSING applicants given APPLICANTS GIVEN GREATER greater control CONTROL under ‘choiceUNDER ‘CHOICE-BASED based lettings’ LETTINGS’ Applicants for council housing in Aberdeenshire can now choose the specific properties they hope to secure, following the introduction of a new ‘choice-based lettings’ application process.

The approach forms part of the Housing Online platform launched earlier this

9.30am and is available until the following Monday at 6pm.

An assistance tool called ‘auto-register’ is to be introduced for applicants who do not have regular access to the internet, allowing a note of interest to be reg-

year and is available to everybody registered on the system.

istered on their behalf for any suitable properties.

Choice-based lettings allows applicants to register an interest on available prop-

The tool may also be used where someone has a need to move very quickly but

erties they feel best meets their needs, in the areas they wish to live. Previously, only a preferred area could be chosen, not individual homes.

Each week, a new list of properties will be advertised on the platform along with a range of information, including location, rent, facilities, floorplans and virtual tours where available.

There will be no limit on the number of bids an applicant can make and properties will be allocated to those assessed as being in greatest housing need.

A new list of available properties is uploaded on the platform each Tuesday at

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has not actively registered an interest or been offered a property within three months.

Communities Committee chair Cllr Anne Stirling said: “Choice-based lettings is a welcome addition to the Housing Online

Committee vice-chair Cllr Judy Whyte said: “By allowing applicants to choose the specific properties they are interested in, we are confident that we will see a reduction in the number of offers that are refused.

“The successful applicants will be chosen based on housing need, and as there is no limit to the number of bids that can be made, this will give users the best chance of securing a property they wish to live in.”

Housing Online and the choice-based lettings platform can be access via a range of devices with connection to the internet, including computers, laptops and smartphones.

platform, allowing applicants to see a wide range of information before deciding whether to register an interest.

“It’s a key part of our local housing strategy and supports our rapid rehousing transition plan, and most importantly is the result of community involvement. Initial feedback has been encouraging and I would encourage those who are not yet registered to sign up.”

For more information on applying for properties in Aberdeenshire, please visit https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/housing/housing-options/apply-for-housing/

scottish local authority news

Housing Housing

GROUNDGround-Breaking BREAKING Housing Project HOUSING inPROJECT Fort Augustus IN FORT completed AUGUSTUS COMPLETED

A pilot scheme by The Highland Council to develop housing provision that sits as a “stepping stone” between living entirely independently in the community and living as a resident in the Telford Centre Care Home in Fort Augustus has been completed.

The Telford Centre housing development pilots a new type of house – a flexible, adapted property designed to support residents with increasing need to stay at home and live independently for longer.

The six houses are self-contained, with flexible kitchen provision to cater for wheelchair users, and fully adapted bathrooms accessible from both the hallway and directly from the main bedroom via a sliding door if required. There is an additional room to the

carers won’t have to travel long distances between clients; maximising the time they can spend with them.

As part of the project the existing gardens have been much improved with the Care Home’s original patio being re-laid, their gazebo refurbished, and new benches and planters installed with improved paths that can accommodate mobility scooters right up to the front door. The gardens will be communal, shared between the new residents and the Care Home.

The architect was Bracewell Stirling, the engineer was HGA and the contractor was Compass Building and Construction Services. The project was delivered under budget.

rear which can be used flexibly as required, for example, as a small dining area, or space for an overnight carer or guests. Patio doors onto the garden from the lounge allow residents to sit out, and a large covered porch can act as a dry entranceway, a place to park a mobility scooter or other such transport, or a place for table and chairs.

Leader of The Highland Council and Ward 12 Member, Councillor Margaret Davidson said: “Development of adapted houses is not new to the Council, but this pilot takes the fresh step of building the units in the grounds of the Telford Centre Care Home to provide the missing link between living independently and entering a formal care setting.

Residents receiving care will continue to do so via their visiting Care at Home packages.

By grouping the homes in a “cluster” care delivery will be much more efficient as

“We’ve worked closely with the NHS and with the local Community Company, who kindly provided some of the land needed to enlarge the Care Home garden sufficiently

for the 6 units we have built, and I think the project is a splendid example of how partnership working can bring tangible benefits to communities. I am sure the new residents will be very happy in their new homes.’’

Harry Whiteside, Chairperson of the Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston Community Company said: Access to affordable housing is crucial for sustaining rural communities, and we were pleased to be able to support Highland Council with this project through the sale of a piece of community owned land. The new bungalows will be a great asset to the community, allowing elderly residents and those with mobility issues to live in the village, with easy access to facilities and the Telford Centre.

“Affordable housing is an issue close to FAGCC’s heart and having just completed building 12 new homes for affordable rent ourselves we know that the new Abertarff Bungalows will be very much appreciated.”

Karen-Anne Wilson, the NHS District Manager for Lochaber joined Cllr Davidson and Harry Whiteside for a tour of the new homes. She said: “This is a really exciting development for the area so I am delighted to see the homes completed and ready for people to move into.”

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Housing Housing

Scotland’s largest ‘net zero’ housing development granted approval

SCOTLAND’S LARGEST ‘NET ZERO’ HOUSING DEVELOPMENT GRANTED APPROVAL

Proposals to create Scotland’s largest ‘net zero’ housing development in Edinburgh have been granted approval by city planners this June (23 June 2021).

The 444-home Western Villages is being led by the City of Edinburgh Council in partnership with Glasgow-based contractor CCG (Scotland) and architect Cooper Cromar.

The development will form part of the Granton Waterfront Regeneration, where over 3,500 homes are set to be created over the next ten years, delivering one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including wheelchair-accessible ground-floor dwellings, available in a mix of social (195), mid-market rent (62), market rent (63) and private sale tenures (124).

Designed within a masterplan that will take advantage of stunning parkland and sea views, there will also be greater emphasis placed on pedestrian and cycle movement with electrical car charging, car club accessibility and public transport in favour of traditional car parking which is reduced across the development.

The homes designed to the principles of CCG’s newly launched ‘Net Zero Home’ housebuilding standard. Developed in collaboration with energy and sustainability consultancy, Carbon Futures, the Net Zero Home focuses on enhanced fabric performance, low carbon heating and renewable technology as part of a gas-free energy strategy to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (arising from regulated operational energy use) to a rate less than or equal to zero per year.

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With an ambitious target to become a ‘net zero’ city by 2030, this first phase of Granton Waterfront will act as a blueprint for future sustainable development and help Scotland to transition towards a greener economy.

City of Edinburgh Council’s Vice Convener for the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work committee, Councillor Mandy Watt, said: All of the steps we’re taking to make homes

Western Villages forms part of the wider £1.3bn Granton Waterfront regeneration project which will create one of Europe’ s largest coastal city parks, providing opportunities for residents and visitors to reconnect with the city’s waterfront by of fering more areas for leisure and outdoor experiences, civic spaces and sustainable housing.

CCG Managing Director, David Wylie, said: Housebuilding is going to play a major part in achieving our ambitious target of becom-

more sustainable will reduce the energy they use once occupied, thereby helping us to tackle climate change and become

ing a ‘net zero’ economy by 2045. With gas being removed from new build homes as early as 2024, it places greater emphasis on

net zero carbon by 2030. That’s why we’re pleased to have CCG working with us as they adopt a new ground-breaking house-

collaborative working as the partners on this project have demonstrated; utilising the CCG Net Zero Home building standard

building standard.

It’s great to see this development with a

to create an affordable, scalable and practical solution that can ultimately be delivered now for any residential development.

large proportion of social rent homes get planning approval. We have incredibly ambitious plans which form the bedrock

We commend the City of Edinburgh Council for their bold commitment and share their

of our housing strategy over the next ten years. There is a critical need for more affordable homes in Edinburgh and we are

aspirations for a more sustainable future for Scotland.

responding to that through the commitment to build 20,000 social and affordable homes by 2027.

Cooper Cromar Project Director, Graham Connor, said: Cooper Cromar are delighted to have been appointed as the Architect to

scottish local authority news

Housing Housing

design and deliver this important residential project delivering one of the initial

Carbon Futures Director, Andrew Money, -proofed against upcoming government legsaid: islation and presents a fantastic example of

phases of the Granton Waterfront Development Framework which sets out the Urban Design Framework and Design Guidelines

We are delighted to have supported City how the construction industry can support of Edinburgh Council and CCG with their the nationwide effort to reduce carbon emisbold and ambitious plans for Western Vil- sions and create a more sustainable future.

for future developments within the wider Granton area.

lages. From the outset, the key areas of focus for the design team were to maximise fabric performance and avoid the use of

We have sought to create a masterplan that not only stands alone for its significance as Scotland’s largest net zero development but

fossil fuels. This approach, together with the use of on-site renewable energy, will greatly reduce energy demand and deliver

also respectful to the wider regeneration of Granton. It will complement and integrate

a significant reduction in utility costs for homeowners.

with future phases of housing delivery and we look forward to working with the project partners over the coming years.

The energy strategy for Western Villages delivers a low-carbon development, future

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Housing Housing

Johnstone Castle council housing transformation wins top national award

JOHNSTONE CASTLE COUNCIL HOUSING TRANSFORMATION WINS TOP NATIONAL AWARD The project to build 95 new homes in the Johnstone Castle area has been recognised at a prestigious Scotland-wide awards ceremony.

The development across five sites in the Renfrewshire town was awarded Affordable Housing Development of the Year in the Social Rent category at the latest Scottish Home Awards.

ers Engie Construction. Competition judges said they were particularly impressed with the levels of community engagement throughout the project, which has transformed the look and feel of the area.

its quality. “I’m particularly pleased the judges singled out our community engagement efforts and this truly has been a project where the council, our build partners and local people have worked together.

The 95 modern, energy-efficient homes for social rent include a mix of one and two-bedroom cottage flats and two, three and four-bedroom family homes.

“We are committed to providing people in Renfrewshire with great places to live and this is a demonstration of our commitment.

“We’re making a £100m investment to im-

This complex and challenging programme saw the rehousing of around 200 tenants, purchase of privately-owned properties, and demolition of outdated tenement flats, to clear the way for 95 new affordable energy-efficient homes for social rent.

The project was run by Renfrewshire Council, with funding support from the Scottish Government, and delivered by architects Anderson Bell Christie and build-

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32

The homes were designed to be adaptable for the current and future needs of tenants, and include two specially-designed wheelchair-adapted bungalows.

Cllr Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, said: “This is a great win for the project team and for the people of Johnstone Castle and it’s fantastic to see the project recognised at national level for

prove the quality of local council houses through our Housing Regeneration and Renewal Programme over the next ten years, and we always strive to achieve the high standards shown by developments such as Johnstone Castle.”

All 95 homes in the completed development are now occupied by tenants of Renfrewshire Council.

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Green Energy

Contemporary Sustainable Homes. Made on Skye.

Delivered throughout Scotland.

sales@ruralhouse.co.uk / 01478 612899 @rhouseskye / www.ruralhouse.co.uk 33

scottish local authority news

Association ProfilePROFILE ASSOCIATION

Professional Organisation: ALACHO Sector: Local Authority Housing Formed: Scottish Contact: Tony Cain T: 07908 460989 Website: www.alacho.org

68 34

ALACHO is the representative organisation for senior housing and homelessness professionals working in Scotland's Councils and Health & Social Care Partnerships.

Their purpose is to provide impartial advice and comment to support the development of legislation, policy and practice in housing and homelessness nationally and locally, and to promote best practice and improved outcomes relating to housing at all levels.

To achieve this, ALACHO works in partnership with its members, tenants and service users, COSLA, the Scottish Government, the CIH, Scottish Women’s Aid, registered social landlords and others. Over the past year this partnership based work has been extended to include a number of “master classes” on current issues including fire suppression, energy efficiency and the national planning framework. In June this year they also

published a ground breaking report on implementing the human right to adequate housing: http://alacho.org/what-we-do/reports/ ALACHO members have also appeared regularly before Scottish Parliamentary committees.

These aims and ambitions include: • Supporting the development of a human rights based approach to housing policy and practice; • Improving housing options for the Gypsy/Traveller community; • Ensuring a “just transition” to net zero carbon and ensuring that tenants in social housing aren’t left behind by these changes;

scottishlocal localauthority authority news news scottish

Association Profile ASSOCIATION PROFILE

• Ending homelessness through the roll out of rapid rehousing and housing first for those who need it; • Improving standards in the private rented sector through a combination of supporting improved, regulation and enforcement; • Working with owners, particularly those in tenements, to ensure that their homes are safe and well maintained; • Improving the supply of social housing through the new build programme; and • Improving housing outcomes for this with disabilities or other particular needs.

As an integral part of their work, ALACHO members meet online every 2 weeks to discuss key housing issues affecting local authorities. The key issues discussed and debated are then generally set out in a “Work Plan”, but are also influenced by new or emerging issues. They invite a range of relevant guests to these meetings, to hear the views of policy developers, experts and academics; so that ALACHO members have the fullest possible understanding of all the issues which affect local authority housing.

For further information please contact Tony Cain, Policy Manager: tony.cain@alacho.org

“ALACHO works in partnership with its members, tenants and service users, COSLA, the Scottish Government, the CIH, Scottish Women’s Aid, registered social landlords and others, to support their stated aims and ambitions for the housing and homelessness sector.”

East Whitlawburn Regeneration Project. Images © Anne-Janine Nugent, South Lanarkshire Council scottish scottish local local authority authoritynews news

35 69

Roads & Transport Roads & Transport

Roads & Transport

ABERDEENSHIRE 20 NEW ZEROAberdeenshire CouncilCOUNCIL adds 20 ADDS new zero-emission EMISSION VEHICLES TO ITS FLEET Aberdeenshire Council adds 20 new zero-emission vehicles to its fleet vehicles to its fleet Aberdeenshire Council has taken deABERDEENSHIRE COUNCIL HAS livery ofDELIVERY 20 new zero-emission TAKEN OF 20 NEWelectric vehicles. Council ZERO-EMISSION ELECTRIC Aberdeenshire has taken deVEHICLES livery of 20 new zero-emission electric vehicles.

Eighteen of the vehicles have been 100% funded by the Scottish Government’s

‘Switched on Fleets’ initiative through EnEighteen of the vehicles have been 100% ergy Savings Trust and will replace older funded by the Scottish Government’s vehicles within the council’s fleet.

‘Switched on Fleets’ initiative through Energy Savings Trust and will replace older The seven Renault Zoe vans, six Vauxhall vehicles within the council’s fleet. e-Vivaro and five Vauxhall Corsa-e will be issued to frontline council services The seven Renault Zoe vans, six Vauxhall ranging from Environmental Health, e-Vivaro and five Vauxhall Corsa-e will be Property and Social Care. issued to frontline council services ranging from Environmental Health, Completing the line-up are two lowProperty and Social Care. entry accessible Mellor e-Orion minibuses.

Completing the line-up are two lowentry accessible Mellor e-Orion One has been match-funded by Transport minibuses.

Scotland and the other has been fully fund-ed by Regional Transport One has been match-funded by Transport Partnership, Nes-trans, along with a Scotland and the other has been fully contribution to the in-stallation of fund-ed by Regional Transport charging points.

Partnership, Nes-trans, along with a contribution to the in-stallation of The Scottish Government intends to recharging points. move the need for petrol or diesel cars or the purchase of new light commercial veThe Scottish Government intends to rehicles in public fleets from 2025. move the need for petrol or diesel cars or the purchase of new light commercial veThe Switched on Fleets initiative helps lohicles in public fleets from 2025. cal authorities transition from traditional internal combustion engines to cleaner The Switched on Fleets initiative helps loze-ro-emission vehicles. cal authorities transition from traditional internal combustion engines to cleaner That support has enabled Aberdeenshire ze-ro-emission vehicles.

Council to increase its zero-emission vehicle fleet to 40.

That support has enabled Aberdeenshire Council to increase its zero-emission vehicle fleet to 40.

Cllr Peter Argyle, chair of the council’s Infrastructure Services Committee, said: “We remain absolutely committed to deCllr Peter Argyle, chair of the council’s Incar-bonising our fleet and grants like frastructure Services Committee, said: Switched on Fleets mean we can “We remain absolutely committed to deaccelerate that change to cleaner vehicles. car-bonising our fleet and grants like Switched on Fleets mean we can “With further advancements in battery accelerate that change to cleaner vehicles. and hydrogen technology - and as more light and heavy commercial vehicles “With further advancements in battery come to market - we will be able to and hydrogen technology - and as more introduce these fit-for-purpose vehicles to light and heavy commercial vehicles increasingly support our key frontline come to market - we will be able to services.” introduce these fit-for-purpose vehicles to increasingly support our key frontline Vice-chair Cllr John Cox added: “It is imservices.” portant that we – as a forward-thinking council – continue to look to the future Vice-chair Cllr John Cox added: “It is imand take action now to provide clean portant that we – as a forward-thinking transport alternatives. Switching to these council – continue to look to the future alternative and take action now to provide clean transport alternatives. Switching to these alternative

power types not only brings massive environmental benefits, it also brings training and development opportunities for the power types not only brings massive encouncil’s vehicle maintenance teams, parvironmental benefits, it also brings trainticularly our apprentices.” ing and development opportunities for the council’s vehicle maintenance teams, parChair of Nestrans, Councillor Sandra Macticularly our apprentices.” donald, said: “Nestrans is pleased to be able to support Aberdeenshire Council in exChair of Nestrans, Councillor Sandra Macpanding their zero-emission fleet, adding donald, said: “Nestrans is pleased to be able to the rapidly growing range of alternativeto support Aberdeenshire Council in exfuel vehicles in use across the North East. panding their zero-emission fleet, adding to the rapidly growing range of alternative“At 68%, emissions from road transport fuel vehicles in use across the North East. form a significant part of Scotland’s total trans-port emissions. Facilitating the “At 68%, emissions from road transport adoption of ultra-low or zero-emission form a significant part of Scotland’s total vehicles plays a critical role in the work trans-port emissions. Facilitating the towards decarbon-ising transport.” adoption of ultra-low or zero-emission vehicles plays a critical role in the work towards decarbon-ising transport.”

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36 Page

scottish local authority news

Roads and Transport

Roads & Transport

Good progress being made on Highland Roads Recovery and new funding announced

GOOD PROCESS BEING MADE ON HIGHLAND ROADS RECOVERY AND NEW FUNDING ANNOUNCED

Members of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee heard recently that great progress is being made on Highland Roads Recovery.

The Committee also agreed the proposed distribution of an additional f9m capital allocation for infrastructure improvements from Phases 2 and 3 of the Health and Prosperity Strategy.

Item 9 of the report focused on Roads and Transport Transformation and the Roads Capital Allocation Update.

This is in addition to the El .6m already approved at full Council in June for Corran Ferry.

Members also noted that any underspend in this year’s allocation will be carried forward into the next financial year.

Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Trish Robertson, said: “It is fantastic to see such excellent pro-

scottish local authority news

gress being made on the Highland Roads recovery.

more effectively, improve performance and demonstrate value for money.

Another positive aspect of Highland Roads Recovery is the arrival of three of five new JCB Pothole Pro plant vehicles and two further machines are on the way, currently on the production line. The to-tal cost for all five is £l

• The second activity is based around

m.

Sponsored by the Executive Chief Officer for Infrastructure, Environment and Economy, Malcolm MacLeod, the Roads and Transport Transformation project is one of the key nine priority projects within the Transformation Pro-gramme.

Council’s

Progress has been made in establishing an officer Project Board that will oversee achievement of clear milestones, within the three key areas of activity set out be-low.

the Highland Road Improvement Strategy and it’s progress to date. The three separate workstreams are intended to provide an opportunity to level additional funding from extérnal sources.

• And the third area of activity focuses on the School Transport Review.

A full report on the outcomes of a consultancy report (due before committee soon) will inform further transformation activity in respect of the medium-term models for delivery of school transport solution in Highland — particularly im-portant in the wider financial climate and drive towards low carbon transport solutions.

Members approved the distribution

• To support the existing transport plan-ning and strategy, design and construc-tion management. Area operational and

of the additional E20M Capital funding at the Economy and Infrastructure Com-mittee on 2 February 2021.

maintenance team will deliver services

37 Page

The Arts The TheArts Arts

EXPLORE MONIFIETH THROUGH Explore Monifieth Through New TrailART TRAIL Explore Monifieth Through New ArtNEW Trail The pupils from TheP5-P7 P5-P7 pupils from Auchterhouse, Birkhill, Auchterhouse, Birkhill, Grange, Liff, Mattocks, MurGrange, Liff, Mattocks, Murroes and Seaview primary roes and Seaview primary schools researched, drew, schools researched, drew, and designed images around and designed images around people, landmarks, animals, people, landmarks, animals, and places.

Artist, Suzanne captured the essence the and places.

Artist, of Suzanne children’s and decaptureddrawings the essence of the signs to create the art boards children’s drawings and dein her unique artistic style. signs to create the art boards

A new artdesigned trail designed by A new art trail by children and young people children and young people launched recently in Monlaunched recently in Monifieth with eight artworks ifieth with eight artworksthe spread throughout spreadtown throughout the people to encouraging explore and discover town encouraging people hidden to they follow the trail. exploregems andasdiscover hidden gems as they follow the trail.

The idea by Monifieth Youth Steering Group (MYSG), Angus Council’s Communities Team and staff at The idea by Monifieth Youth SteerMonifieth High School saw P5-P7 ing Group (MYSG), Council’s pupils from Angus local primary schools Communities Teamandand staff aatworld researching designing Monifieth High School saw P5-P7 continent theme before successful artist local Suzanne Scott created the art pupils from primary schools boards. researching and designing a world

continent theme before successful artist Suzanne Scott created the art ConAngus Council’s Communities boards. vener Cllr Mark Salmond said: “It’s

been such a difficult year for children and young people and this art trail is Angus Council’s Communities Cona great way to bring people together vener Cllr Mark something Salmond fun said: “It’s to create that gets the community visitors walkbeen suchwider a difficult year and for children ingpeople and cycling while and young and this artexploring trail is the local town. a great way to bring people together

to create something fun that gets the wider community and visitors walk- so “The art boards are amazing, ing and bright cyclingand while exploring theas incolourful as well local town. formative. Where else can you pass

some great landmarks, such as the Seven Archers and Blue Seaway Park learning factssoabout “The artwhile boards areinteresting amazing, the world.

The children, bright and colourful as well Suzanne as in- and all those haveyou donepass a fantasformative.

Whereinvolved else can tic job!” some great landmarks, such as the

Seven Archers and Blue Seaway Park while learning interesting facts about the world. The children, Suzanne and all those involved have done a fantastic job!”

38

Page 5

in her unique artistic style.

Artist, Suzanne Scott said: “I can’t believe we managed to create an art trail involving hundreds of children and Suzanne young people Artist, Scottduring said: a pandemic.

The drawings they produced from their “I can’t believe we managed to create an research were brilliant and gave me the art material trail involving I needed hundreds to develop of the children designs. and Their young people during a creativity, imagination pandemic. and deterThe mination drawings hasthey been produced inspiring.” from their

research were brilliant and gave me the material I needed to develop the designs.

Their creativity, imagination and deterMorgan from the Monifieth mination hasMcLaren, been inspiring.”

Youth Steering Group said “It has been a fun project to be involved in while creating something good for the community.”, with fellow member Robyn Morgan McLaren, Jenkins adding: from the Monifieth Youth Steering said “It has been “I can’t believeGroup we managed to do so much withproject all the to restrictions.

Lovedinhow we a fun be involved while have been able to involve this creating something goodeveryone for theincomproject.”with fellow member Robyn munity.”,

Jenkins adding: “I can’t believe we managed to do so much with all the restrictions. Loved how we have been able to involve everyone in this project.”

The P5-P7 pupils from Auchterhouse, Birkhill, Grange, Liff, Mattocks, Murroes and Seaview primary schools researched, and AuchterdeThe P5-P7 pupilsdrew, from signed images around people, landhouse, Birkhill, Grange, Liff, Matmarks, animals, and places. Artist, tocks, Murroes Seaview Suzanne captured and the essence of primary the schools researched, drew, children’s drawings and designsand to designed around people, create theimages art boards in her uniquelandmarks,style. animals, and places. Artist, artistic

Suzanne captured the essence of the children’s drawings and designs to The route planned by MYSG highcreate the art boards in her unique lights areas of interests and includes artisticofstyle. aspects the walking and cycle network path through Monifieth.

The route planned by MYSG highlights areas of interests and includes aspects of the walking and cycle network path through Monifieth.

You can find out more about the trail and download a leaflet with a map from the Visit Angus Website

scottish local authority news You can find out more about the trail and download a leaflet with a map from the Visit Angus Website

The Arts Leisure

Royal Official Opening for Aberdeen Art Gallery

ROYAL OPENING FOR ABERDEEN ART GALLERY

Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay carried out the official opening of Aberdeen Art Gallery recently.

Their Royal Highnesses were accompanied on their visit to the Art Gallery by the Lord-Lieutenant of Aberdeen City Barney Crockett.

The Royal Party toured the Gallery, where they met with staff and members of the team who delivered the landmark redevelopment of the Art Gallery between 2015 and 2019. The organisations represented included Hoskins Architects, Studioarc Design and the Friends of Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums.

The project’s principal funders are Aberdeen City Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with financial support from other government agencies, companies,

scottish local authority news Page

trusts and foundations, many of whom Lord-Lieutenant of Aberdeen Barney Crockett said: “It is a tremendous honour to welcome were also represented on the day.

Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay to carry out the official opening of During the visit The Duke of Rothesay visited Aberdeen Art Gallery. The Art Gallery is home the Balmoral Phenomenon gallery where His to one of the finest collections in the UK, and Royal Highness viewed garments belonging the ambitious redevelopment project has creatto Frances Farquharson, the flamboyant for- ed a safe, welcoming and inspiring civic space mer editor of Harper’s Bazaar, and chatelaine both for the people of Aberdeen and visitors to of Invercauld Estate, Braemar. She was known the city. for her love of fashion and striking tartan ensembles. In 1996 a large part of her wardrobe “The transformation of Aberdeen Art Gallery was donated to Aberdeen Archives, Gallery and has been recognised with numerous awards, most notably the prestigious Art Fund Museum Museums

of the Year 2020. Today’s important visit officialThe Duchess of Rothesay met pupils from Han- ly marks the beginning of a vibrant new chapter over Street Primary School, who have recently in the story of Aberdeen Art Gallery as a place participated in the Art Chat project – togeth- of inspiration, learning and enjoyment which can er with curators and members of the Learning enhance all our lives.” team, they looked at selected paintings on display, explored the stories and inspiration behind them, and recorded their responses which will be available for visitors to listen to on the Art Gallery’s +Music audio system.

39

Health Health&&Social SocialCare Care

£ 1 Malcohol A LC Oand HOL £lm AND DRUGS drug pilotT J O B Sjobs P I LO A NEW £l million pilot scheme has been launched to help 30 young Inverclyde men with alcohol or drug dependencies turn their lives around by getting them into work.

Inverclyde Council and Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) have developed an innovative programme which will target men aged 20-30 in Greenock and Port Glasgow town centres.

The pilot scheme is aimed at those who are unemployed and have difficulties with alcohol and drugs, as well as mental health issues, to offer tailored support to help them overcome their dependencies and get them ready to work with a year’s paid employment on offer with the local authority.

The programme will initially be rolled out in Greenock town centre — statistically Inverclyde’s most deprived area — with Port Glasgow to follow and will also see three dedicated outreach workers taken on to support the young men taking part.

Funding of just over Elm is being made available by the council and the Inverclyde Integration Joint Board, which oversees health and social care functions carried out by the local authority and HSCP. Councillor

Stephen

McCabe,

Page

While we can’t reverse the trend alone, we are working hard behind the scenes to enhance existing support and develop new ways to support some of our most vulnerable residents and this employability scheme is a bold and innovative example of that.

“This scheme will provide targeted support for young men in our communities to get their lives back on track and offer them hope for the future through a year’s paid employment.

“Improving life chances is crucial to lifting people out of poverty and preventing them from turning to alcohol and drugs.”

Data shows that 70 per cent of the local population who access alcohol and drug support services are male and many also have mental health issues.

Further analysis found that those in the 20-30 age group in particular face complex barriers to employment, often have mental health and addiction issues, and are involved in crime.

leader

of Inverclyde Council, said: “It’s been well-documented that we have high rates of deprivation and alcohol and drug

40

dependency and we must act now to try and lift people out of poverty and prevent them turning to alcohol and drugs.

“Improving life chances is crucial to lifting people out of poverty and preventing them from turning to alcohol and drugs.”

The employment pilots will run for two years and will be supported by three outreach support workers who will be tasked with engaging with individuals involved, gaining their trust and providing intensive activities to support their recovery and with a view to making them ready for work after year one when a 12-month contract will be on offer.

Councillor Robert Moran, Inverclyde’s health and social care convener, said: “We’ve spoken at great length about the problems we face locally with deprivation and addiction but it’s time to take radical action to try and turn the tide and improve health and employment outcomes for residents, particularly our young people.

“This is a fantastic initiative that can deliver real change and give young men in Greenock and Port Glasgow a different, positive pathway to follow.

“It will also give hope to others out there who are struggling for whatever reason and show that there is help available and encourage them to seek support.”

For more information about alcohol and drugs support services, visit the Inverclyde Alcohol and Drugs Partnership website or phone 01475 715353.

scottish local authority news

Health & Social Care

Health & Social Care

Edinburgh Families set to benefit from financial boost before Christmas

EDINBURGH FAMILIES SET TO BENEFIT FROM FINANCIAL BOOST BEFORE CHRISTMAS

City of Edinburgh Council finance leaders today welcome the announcement that around 8,000 Edinburgh children from low-income families will benefit from a £320 uplift before Christmas.

As part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to tackling child poverty, children that are entitled to free school meals will receive payments of £160 per child in October and December.

This follows three payments that were made late in 2020 and early this year to eligible families by the Council, taking the total to £620 received by each child.

In Edinburgh, these were: a Winter Support Fund payment of £100 per child in December 2020; a Spring Hardship Payment of £100 per child in March 2021; and a Summer Family Pandemic Payment of £100 per child in June 2021. This was issued along with the Summer holiday Free School Meals Payment of £92.50 per child.

This will take the total money distributed to children in low-income families by the end of 2021, over these five payments, to around £4.8 million.

In 2022, the Council also will deliver £520 payments per child in 4 instalments on behalf of the Scottish Government.

As detailed by the Scottish Government, this cash is equivalent to the Scottish Child Payment (SCP), a £10-a-week benefit which provides regular, additional financial support for families in receipt of qualifying benefits to assist with the costs of caring for a child aged under six years old.

Finance Convener Councillor Rob Munn said:

Finance Vice Convener Councillor Joan Griffiths said:

Many families are still feeling the effects of the pandemic and it’s more important than ever that we continue to support those most in need, particularly at a time of year when household bills are increasing. So we welcome this additional money from the Scottish Government, that will be administered through the Council, to give some added relief.

Direct support must go hand in hand with the ongoing financial support to ensure that no child is left behind as a result of these unprecedented times. Our teams from across Children’s Services have worked tirelessly to put in place a series of measures across the city to continue to support and monitor the effects the pandemic is having on our children. Thanks must go to all our hard-working staff and third sector partners who are providing these vital services.

As a Council we are committed to ending poverty and supporting the wellbeing of our residents and through building a better foundation for our young people we hope that we can create a better future for all.

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41

Health&&Social SocialCare Care Health

South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership invite views on a blueprint for tomorrow

SOUTH LANARKSHIRE HEATH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP INVITE VIEWS ON A BLUEPRINT FOR TOMORROW

People across South Lanarkshire are being invited to have their say on a plan that will shape the ongoing development of local health and social care services.

South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership (H&SCP) are currently seeking views on their Strategic Commissioning Plan 2022 – 2025. In effect, the document will be a blueprint for the future – as it will set down key priorities to inform significant resources invested in health and social care provision going forward.

“Health and social care staff across South Lanarkshire are working tirelessly to address the significant challenges created by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

views is fundamental to planning for the future.

“At the same time, I am also committed to looking to the future, collectively, and being ambitious for what we think our ‘new

H&SCP can provide to people in local communities to assist them to maximise their health and wellbeing.

“In essence, the Strategic Commissioning Plan will focus on the support that the

normal’ should look like.”

He added “We all have a role play in shap-

“So it’s vitally important we hear from individuals from across the communities of South La-

ing a progressive and sustainable vision for health and social care services.” Craig Cunningham, Head of Commissioning and

narkshire in terms of what matters to them and their families.”

Performance for the H&SCP, highlighted that gleaning feedback and hearing

The online survey is open until the end of November 2021.

The partnership has just published an easy-to-use online survey – https://bit. ly/2Vhoonq – and is currently holding a range of targeted events with stakeholders.

Soumen Sengupta, Director of Health and Social Care for South Lanarkshire, stated: Page 42

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Health & Social Care

Health & Social Care

Teamwork strengthens suicide prevention efforts in North Lanarkshire

TEAMWORK STRENGTHENS SUICIDE PREVENTION EFFORTS IN NORTH LANARKSHIRE Work is continuing across North Lanarkshire to help people with suicidal thoughts and support those who have tost a loved one to suicide.

North Lanarkshire has recorded 128 suicides since 2019, with 62 per cent of these occurring in people under the age of 44.

An average of two people died by suicide every day last year in Scotland and it remains the leading cause of death in young and middle-aged men in the UK. The steps being taken by a group of organisations to avoid such tragic losses of life across North Lanarkshire were laid out in a report to the Integration Joint Board’s (IJB) performance, finance and audit committee yesterday (Tuesday 24 August).

North Lanarkshire’s action plan aims to • Reduce the risk of suicide in high risk groups; • Tailor approaches to improve mental and physical health in specific groups; • Reduce access to means of suicide, including identified locations of concern; • Learn from investigations and reviews into unexpected deaths; • Provide better information and support to those bereaved or affected bysuicide; u Support research, data collection and monitoring; • Build community capacity to help reduce the stigma and taboo associatedwith suicide

strengthen suicide prevention initiatives and raise awareness of the support available to people who have experienced suicidal thoughts.

Representatives of NHS Lanarkshire,

Health Services (CAMHS), NL Leisure, Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire (VANL) and the independent sector make up the group.

“However, it’s vital that we continue to break down the stigma around mental health and do all we can to help people who are at a low or have been impacted by suicide.

“Many people have experienced a wide range of emotions during the Covid-19 pandemic. Isolation, financial hardship, grief, and physical suffering are hard for the most resilient of us to bear, but for some they can have devastating consequences.

“We have been running our ‘Let’s Talk’ campaign this year to remind people that there is support out there for them.

The campaign has been running on billboards, TV and online adverts, and across social media.

North Lanarkshire’s Suicide Prevention Partnership (SPS) was set up in 2018 to

North Lanarkshire Council, Police Scotland, Child and Adolescent Mental

“We are committed to ensuring people can easily access support, so it’s very encouraging to hear the range of work being done by the suicide prevention partnership. It plays a crucial role in raising awareness of the supports available to people and also delivering training to a number of groups.

Councillor Paul Kelly, chair of the performance, finance and audit committee, said: “Every life lost to suicide is tragic.

“We’ve also had great support through local sports clubs with partnerships with Clyde, Motherwell, Albion Rovers and Airdrie football clubs, Dalziel Rugby Club and the virtual Run and Cycle events. These partnerships mean we can use sport as a means to reach out to more people and raise awareness around this sensitive area.

“In North Lanarkshire we’re determined It promotes the national and local suicide prevention strategies through a range of activities including awareness raising as well as training across services and local communities.

44

to support people who may be having difficulties in their lives and support them to lead full and independent lives at the heart of the communities.

“I would urge everyone to download the Suicide Prevention Lanarkshire app. It provides quick and easy access to information and support which can be used to help prevent the tragedy of suicide.

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Fostering

Green Energy

Every day, Barnardo’s foster carers transform lives by showing their belief in the young people they care for.

To help and support our foster carers we provide comprehensive training, access to therapists, and 24 hour support from our skilled social workers.

To learn more about fostering with Barnardo’s Scotland and how to apply contact our friendly team today.

Call 0845 894 9501 or visit: barnardos.org. uk/fostering

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Registered Charity No. 216250 and SC037605

45

Communities

Communities

Could Greenock become a city?

COULD GREENOCK BECOME A CITY? That’s the question being posed in a survey produced by Inverclyde Council.

The council is looking at a proposal to bid for city status as part of the 2022 Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Now an online survey has been launched to find out whether there is backing for a bid.

Inverclyde Council Leader, Councillor Stephen McCabe, said: “The opportunity to achieve city status is one that comes around rarely. The last time was ten years ago as part of the Diamond Jubilee and Perth was chosen at that time.

“The process is described as light touch and that a bid document of ten pages is required to be submitted with images and statistics about the place bidding.

“It is important that the views of the community are part of that process to allow councillors the chance to hear views from the community, local business and our political and civic leaders.

The survey is available online at https:// www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/CityStatusForGreenock/ and from the council website.

If Greenock were to successfully achieve city status it would become Scotland’s eighth city alongside Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness, Stirling and Perth.

Among the questions asked in the survey is whether achieving city status would help to raise the proile of Greenock in Scotland and the rest of the UK. It also seeks views on the potential economic benefits of being part of the Scottish Cities Alliance which brings the current seven cities together to promote the country’s economic potential.

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Communities

Communities

Study for Multi-use Community Space

STUDY FOR MULTI-USE COMMUNITY SPACE

Councillors will be asked to permit SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) to carry out a feasibility study for a new multi-use community space at the former bowling green site in Dawson Park.

The Scottish mental health charity is applying to National Lottery’s ‘Awards for All’ Scotland Fund to support the feasibility study which will allow a fuller appraisal of the buildings and former bowling green.

“The pandemic has seen a greater emphasis and wider interest in outdoor activities as well as a more general awareness of mental health and wellbeing. The addition of these facilities at this location would be put to good use and help to provide further mental health support to the community in the community.”

This will also include the development of a phased project plan to inform SAMH further on their scope to consider managing this site and introduce additional mental health support activities at the location.

Assistant Director of Delivery and Development at SAMH, Alex Cumming, said: “SAMH has a long history within Dundee and Dawson Park, and so we are delighted to be given the opportunity by Dundee City Council to look into ways we can further support the local community’s mental health and wellbeing. The Bowling Green has a history of bringing enjoyment to many through physical activity and making social connections, SAMH want to continue that legacy.”

Neighbourhood Services Convener, Councillor Anne Rendall, said: “The proposals set out by SAMH are very promising for the area, and with their current work being carried out at Duntrune Community Garden it is encouraging to see their plans to expand further.

With support of Dundee City Council, SAMH currently runs Chrysalis within the city’s Dawson Park – a therapeutic horticulture service which works with people to support their recovery journey by developing self-resilience and employability skills.

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Team Leader at Chrysalis, Sue Black, said: “The Bowling Green has serious potential to once again become a community space for all. It could allow us to support others with more gardening and growing sessions with families. We also want to work with partners and use the fantastic space to deliver environmental art, mindfulness, yoga and walking groups. This feasibility study will help us learn more about how the space could be transformed to best match local needs, and we can’t wait to take the next step in this exciting project.”

Upon completion of the feasibility study, SAMH would be required to formally request approval of the council to permit alternative use of the facility at a later date.

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Tourism

Tourism

All aboard new £19.2m Greenock cruise facilities

C

ALL ABOARD NEW £19.2M GREENOCK CRUISESHIP FACILTIES

CONSTRUCTION of a new Greenock cruise ship visitor centre is underway as part of a £19.2 million development which will welcome passengers and crew from some of the world’s largest and most luxurious vessels to Inverclyde.

The project, led by Inverclyde Council, is part of the £1 billion Glasgow City Region City Deal funded by the Scottish and UK governments, with contributions from Peel Ports (£8m), operators of the existing Greenock Ocean Terminal, and the George Wyllie Foundation via the Dunard Trust (£1.5m).

The development is expected to increase visitor numbers to some 150,000 passengers a year and provide a £26m boost to the Scottish economy.

The dedicated cruise ship visitor centre will feature an arrivals/departure hall as well as a museum paying tribute to the late, world-famous artist George Wyllie,

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who worked as a Customs Officer in Greenock and lived for many years in Gourock, and a high-end restaurant and roof terrace with panoramic views of the River Clyde.

A new 200-metre floating pontoon was recently completed by the port operators as part of the overall project.

Work on the visitor centre has resumed following the appointment of a new contractor after the original builder withdrew for financial reasons.

The building is expected to be completed by summer 2022.

Leader of Inverclyde Council, Councillor Stephen McCabe, said: “This is an important milestone in a development which is of huge significance to Inverclyde,

the wider City Region and Scotland.

“We want people from near and far to discover Inverclyde and making a positive first impression with a striking visitor centre – coupled with our famous warm and friendly welcome – will help to do that and encourage our guests to return again in the future.

“The building will also be an asset for the local community outside of the cruise call season and is part of the ongoing regeneration of Greenock Town Centre so there are many benefits of what will be a firstclass facility.”

Scottish Government Tourism Minister, Ivan McKee, said: “I am pleased to see such a remarkable development, especially given the strains of the pandemic.

scottish local authority news

Tourism

Tourism

“This new visitor centre at Greenock Ocean Terminal will make a significant contribution to the local area, supporting economic growth in the local community and the wider city region whilst promoting tourism.

“The Scottish Government is contributing £500 million over 20 years to the Glasgow City Region City Deal.

“The investment in this project through the deal will contribute to the region’s economic recovery by creating jobs, and providing the commercial infrastructure to support and attract businesses to the local area.”

UK Government Minister for Scotland, Iain Stewart, said: “This fantastic new visitor centre represents a major step forward in the regeneration of Greenock.

“It will provide a real boost to the local economy and community while offering visitors a warm welcome

and a taste of Inverclyde’s culture and heritage.

“The UK Government is investing more than £1.5bn into City Region and Growth deals right across Scotland, helping create jobs and drive growth as we recover from the pandemic.”

The new berth and visitor centre will also free up space at the busy Greenock Ocean Terminal, which was originally built as a container terminal, for freight business.

Peel Ports Clydeport Director, Jim McSporran, said: “This is fantastic news. The overall investment in the cruise terminal is crucial to the remarkable growth of cruise traffic at Greenock, and this magnificent new visitor centre will allow us to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for passengers.

“We are building a major cruise business on the Clyde and, despite the impact of the pandemic on the global industry, we are back in business.

“Thanks to the success of Greenock Ocean Terminal, more people than ever will be taking a cruise to Scotland and boosting both local and national tourism.”

The first cruise ship to call at Greenock since the start of the pandemic arrived a fortnight ago with almost 50 booked in for the rest of this year, including MSC Virtuosa, pictured, which is the biggest vessel in gross tonnage to call at the ocean terminal and is scheduled to stop off locally seven times in total during the 2021 season.

More than 100 ships are due in 2022.

The striking new state-of-the-art visitor centre was designed by Richard Murphy Architects and is being built

by Heron Bros.

The facility will welcome passengers and crew during the busy cruise call season and will also be an asset for the people of Inverclyde and other visitors for things like exhibitions, conferences and functions.

To find out more about what Inverclyde has to offer visit www.discoverinverclyde.com

scottish local authority news

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Leisure Leisure

ARCHAEOLOGY FESTIVAL TO SHOWCASE HIGHLAND’S HISTORIC HERITAGE

Archaeology Festival to showcase Highland’s historic

The high point of the year for celebrating our heritage started on Saturday 25 September. For three weeks, the Highland Archaeology Festival will offer a range of walks, talks, workshops, exhibitions, and activities for all ages. The festival is organised by The Highland Council’s Development and Infrastructure Service and features over a hundred events, including special exhibitions at museums, as well as geocaches and trails exploring our rich heritage from prehistoric times through to the 20th century.

Chair of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Trish Robertson, said: “The Highland Archaeology Festival is the premier event of its kind in Scotland. We live in an area where the heritage is so accessible, with many local societies and museums promot-

ing their area and undertaking important projects. Scotland’s Archaeology Strategy notes that archaeology is for everyone, contributing to our wellbeing and knowledge, and to our economic growth and quality of life. What better way to showcase this than by a festival stretching across the Highlands and celebrating the range and diversity of our heritage. I particularly would like to thank all the event organisers for their time, imagination and effort, as the festival would not be possible without them.”

The Highland Council’s Archaeologist Kirsty Cameron said: “We’re delighted to be able to run the Events Programme again this year and it’s fantastic that so many organisations and museums have offered activities which celebrate archaeology, history and heritage.

Walks to special places are always popular, and people are keen to get out and about more, especially after the past year.

The line-up of events around the Highlands

this year includes: Events in Badenoch and Strathspey feature the online Badenoch celebration organised by the Badenoch Great Place Project and an online talk on scientific investigation of Castle Roy, which will also host open days.

In Caithness there is a walk to investigate wartime remains at Dunnet Head, online talks on excavations at Swartigill and finds from Freswick and a special exhibition at Castlehill Heritage Centre on Maps and Sea Charts.

Inverness-shire has walks to Comar Wood Dun; Strathglass, Breackachy; tours and a special family activity at the Inverness Filter Bunker and a special exhibition on recent Treasure Trove finds at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. Online talks focus on recent archaeological work in Inverness on Castle Street and Culduthel, architectural studies in Inverness and Kirkhill, and

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Leisure Leisure

afocus on 16th century Inverness alewives.

gists discuss the local area.

Online talks explore the Bronze Age Migdale Hoard, Dalchork prehistoric houses and

West Highland Museum in Lochaber has organised a range of walks in Fort William

There is are also some in-person talks at Tain and Clachan Church. Dingwall Muse-

Clachtoll Broch. There are guided tours of Dunrobin Castle Museum and a special exhi-

and surrounding areas, as well as a session focussing on metal detecting in Lochaber.

um will have a special opening to feature the recently found Conan Stone, and there are special exhibitions at Cromarty Court-

bition on Brora’s Industrial Tramways at Brora Library. Historylinks Museum in Dornoch has a special dig event for children.

Glenfinnan Station Museum has organised a special exhibition about the building of the

house Museum, Groam House Museum and Gairloch Museum. Blacksmith crafts and

Other online talks spanning all parts of the

Mallaig railway.

In Nairn there are two talks at Nairn Muse-

archaeology loan boxes and learning materials are featured at an event at the Black Isle Showground. A number of events have

Highlands include the launch of the Highland Regional ScARF, a major project providing an overview of Highland heritage;

um, one relating to their special exhibition on shops and businesses, the other on recent

been organised by the St Duthac Book and Arts Festival. Special children’s activities

an in depth look at string through the ages; reconstruction of past lives from the biomo-

Treasure Trove finds. There is a workshop on small finds illustration, and a chance to record Ordnance Survey benchmarks.

are planned at Portmahomack and Strathpeffer. There is an excavation of a round house in Gairloch which welcomes visitors

lecular and chemical analysis of human remains; an exploration of heritage and tourism; a focus on excavation of whisky stills

and an opportunity to help record remains around Braemore Junction.

and whisky in Gaelic tradition; the potential of studying tree rings for dating and climate; recent Treasure Trove finds in the Highlands; and student research on shielings and sandstones. An in-person workshop will explore the aerial photograph collection, now online, of the late Jim Bone.Argyll’s Kilmartin Museum offers walks of this important historic landscape.

Ross and Cromarty has a diverse range of offerings. There are walks and site tours at Dingwall, Strathpeffer, Kirkmichael, Ardross, Edderton, Tain, Milton, Portmahomack, Ullapool, Gairloch and Shieldaig. Online talks feature excavations at Rosemarkie and Bellfield (North Kessock), and Gairloch is hosting an online event where archaeolo-

Skye and Lochalsh has walks at the marble quarries at Broadford, Pictish and Medieval remains at St Columba’s Isle and Tote, and multi-period sites around Camus Cross and Isle Ornsay. A special family Viking activity day is taking place at Kyle of Lochalsh.

For full details of these and other events, see the Highland Archaeology Festival 2021 brochure available from local libraries, museums, visitor information points, and various other venues or from the festival.

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Leisure Leisure

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR £4.8MILLION Contract Awarded for £4.8 million Swimming Pool Revamp SWIMMING POOL REVAMP Contract awarded for E4.8 million swimming pool revamp. Work is to start on the transformation of an Aberdeen swimming pool that will include a gym and wellness centre and combine with other ameniåes to create a new community sports hub.

CHAP Group has been appointed by Aberdeen City Council (ACC) to carry out the f4.8 million refurbishment of Northfield Swimming Pool following a competitive tendering exercise. The work is being funded by ACC with significant support from Sport Aberdeen, which operates the city’s leisure venues, as well as from sportscotland.

The council-owned facility was built in 1996 and comprises a traditional 25-metre six-lane tank.

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The pool closed due to equipment failures

strictions.

and as part of the contract significant elements of the mechanical and electrical plant will be replaced along with fixtures

Councillor Gordon Graham, vice convener of Capital Programme Committee, said: “To

and fittings. In addition, the new facility

be progressing with the build is fantastic

will include: • A larger, fully accessible changing village; • Group changing and family changing; • 40-station fitness suite; Multi-purpose studio; • Dry changing facilities; • Clinical suites for use by NHS Grampian; • Additional car and cycle parking,

news for both the local community and Aberdeen as a whole.

The business case was approved by the City Growth and Resources Committee but the plan had to be put on hold because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting re-

“Together with Sport Aberdeen the council is committing a very significant financial investment to deliver a state-of-theart health, fitness and sport hub. In addition to technical upgrades to the pool itself, the new facilities will provide an exciting wellness centre for the local communities of Northfield and Mastrick, and people across the city.

“The new dry facilities will greatly broaden its appeal, increase income, and so help

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make the pool more financially selfsustaining long into the future.

this fantastic venue for the Northfield community, creating the opportunity for

The pool is expected to open in summer 2022.

”Sport Aberdeen has been awarded funding of EIOO,OOO from sportscotland, Scot-

more people of all ages and abilities to access first class sport and physical activity facilities.”

Hugh Craigie, Managing Director at CHAP Group, said: “CHAP Group are pleased to

land’s national sporting body, to support the project — the maximum amount awarded for capital projects.

Stewart Harris, chief executive, sportscotland, said: “This is a fantastic example of

have been awarded the upgrade project at Northfield Swimming Pool. The planned upgrades and extension to the existing fa-

Sport Aberdeen chairman Tony Dawson said: “We are delighted to reach this signif-

partnership working where, by combining our resources, we can make a real impact where it matters. That’s why we were de-

cilities will rejuvenate Northfield Swimming Pool and bring the amenity up to date. We look forward to working alongside Aberdeen

lighted to provide support and investment to Aberdeen City Council and Sport Aberdeen to help make this project a reality.

City Council and Sport Aberdeen to deliver this exciting project.”

icant milestone in the refurbishment and expansion of Northfield Swimming Pool.

“Along with our partners at Aberdeen City Council, we have been working incredibly hard behind the scenes to ensure this project has kept momentum over the last, very challenging year.

“The support of sportscotland, by way of a significant funding grant, is very gratefully received and we look forward to delivering

“It is thanks to funding from the National Lottery, which raises E36 million a week for Good Causes, that we are able to invest in projects like the Northfield Pool. This development will provide more opportunities for people to take part in sport and physical activity right at the heart of the communities where they live.”

The site is next to a recently completed third generation 3G artificial turf pitch at Northfield Academy, and a sports centre comprising bowling greens and tennis courts. Part of the project will involve landscaping to connect these facilities.

(left to right) Sport Aberdeen board chairman Tony Dawson; Sport Aberdeen managing director Alistair Robertson; Councillor Gordon Graham; and Ron Liddell, CHAP construction director at Northfield Swimming Pool.

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scottish local authority news Page

Leisure

Leisure

COUNCIL LAUNCH INNOVATIVE Council Launch Innovative new GolfNEW ClubGOLF CLUB Karin Sharp, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Golf and Alasdair Malcolm, County Golf Secretary at the Ayrshire Golf Association, were on hand to celebrate the official launch of South Ayrshire Council’s new landmark golf club.

The innovative Golf South Ayrshire Golf Club has been set up to attract first time club members and families to help grow the game.

The club’s inclusive outlook has already attracted over 180 golfers, including over 100 who are in the process of obtaining a golfing handicap for the first time!

This new format will allow men, women and juniors the opportunity to compete together in the same competition.

Councillor Chris Cullen, Economy and Culture Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: “The club has been running since February 2021 and while still in its infancy, the early signs are that it’s encouraging first time club members to hone their skills and hopefully progress onto one of the many established clubs who are affiliated to play on our courses.

“Throughout the pandemic, golf has shown itself to be a great way of staying active and improving mental health and wellbeing. The game has never been more popular, and I hope that this trend continues for many years to come.”

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Karin Sharp, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Golf, said: “It has been great to visit and meet with some of the new Golf South Ayrshire Golf Club Members.

“At Scottish Golf, our aim is to make golf Scotland’s Game for Everyone and this new golf club recognises that the way people consume the game has changed a great deal in recent years. Golfers are looking for more flexibility and a model of membership that suits their lifestyle and other commitments that they may have and Golf South Ayrshire’s vision for their new golf club provides golfers in the region the option to access golf in a flexible way. We fully believe that this approach can only help make the game more accessible and inclusive to a wider community of golfers.

“Whilst we’ve seen a really encouraging increase in golfer numbers across the last year, the longer-term trend before the pandemic saw a consistent reduction of around 5,000 members a year over the previous 10 years. In order to reverse this trend, it is vital that as a sport, we explore alternative approaches to make sure the game remains relevant and accessible to the modern golfer and more people try the sport for the first time.”

Alasdair Malcolm, County Golf Secretary at the Ayrshire Golf Association said:

” The Ayrshire Golf Association welcomes the Golf South Ayrshire Golf Club as one of our 64 member clubs.

The concept is fairly unique in the area, allowing men, women and junior golfers to compete together in the same competitions and give golfers, whether new to the game or who have played in the past, another alternative to engage in the sport.

“Hopefully the Golf South Ayrshire Golf Club will act as a gateway club for many players who have never been or are not presently members of a club.

This experience will help those who choose to develop a greater interest in competitive golf, the opportunity to progress to membership of other established clubs in the area, which will benefit our wider club membership.”

Keen golfers Matt Davidson and Elias Caven are already playing competitions as a result of joining the club. The pair who also play rugby for the Ayrshire Bulls, said: “We’ve played on the Golf South Ayrshire courses in both Ayr and Troon and the golf club put out a request to other members, who had a handicap, to score for us so we could get our own handicaps, this has allowed us to play in competitions which is great”.

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FIRSTforFOR FIFE ASyouth NEW sports YOUTHhub SPORTS HUB First Fife as new opens in Tayport OPENS IN TAYPORT YOUNG Fifers can now take can now take advantage of free sports activity thanks to a new partnership venture in Tayport.

Based in the newly opened Larick Centre in the town, a new youth sports hub

We are delighted to have the support of Active Schools, Active Communities and

will welcome around 30 young people between P 7 and S1 each week for free sports and healthy snacks.

our Waterstone Crook community sport hub partners in this project. A big thanks

The partnership between Fife Council, Tayport Community Trust, Tayport FC and the Waterstone Crook Community Sport Hub has pulled together to give youngsters a more positive outlet to build confidence, self-esteem and social development.

Ross Taylor, Fife Council’s Community Sport Hub Officer commented: “This is fantastic example of the local community coming together with local organisations and providing a really positive project for local young people.

must also go to Tay FM Cash For Kids, the National Children’s Lottery and St Andrews Dance society for their funding support, which will allow this project to have a wider social impact on the young people who will attend.”

Yvonne Wynia, Project Coordinator at the Larick Centre added: “This is an exciting new project for the young people of the community of Tay Bridgehead and offers the opportunity for young people to build friendships, be active and feel good. With the contribution of the Sports Clubs and with help of volunteers we hope it will become a great success.

Convener of Fife Council’s Community and Housing services sub committee Cllr Judy Hamilton is delighted that the project has got off the ground. She commented: “Sport and physical activity can have a truly positive impact on the physical, mental and emotional health of young people across our local communities.

“I hope this new model can be replicated elsewhere in Fife to give our youngsters much needed facilities and social opportunities for their health and wellbeing.

It’s an exciting model that leads the way and demonstrates how communities can support each other in smaller, more rural areas.’’

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Leisure Leisure

Plans to Renew 14 Play Parks in Renfrewshire

PLANS TO RENEW 14 PLAY PARKS IN RENFREWSHIRE

Families and Young people across Renfrewshire can look forward to 14 Fully Renewed Play Parks as part of a £1.25 Million investment

by Renfrewshire Council.

Councilors approved the two year investment recently which will see a play park in each Ward area completely overhauled with all current assets removed and replaced with brand-new equipment.

Council Officers will engage with local community groups and schools in each area to ensure the equipment meets the needs of the local famillies and young people.

The Council has also received and additional Grant of £158,000 from the Scottish

‘‘We’ve already supported the tranformation of a number of Play Parks through

Government for investment in Play Parks

our Green Spaces, Park and Play Areas

The Play park in each area identified as being most in need will be replaced and

which will enhance the councils investment in this project.

and Villages investment Fund, including the new Interactive Play Park in Bargarran, and this investment will mean even more communities in Renfrewshire can

these are Lochwinnoch Park, Lochwinnoch, Ardgryffe Park, Houston, Churchill Drive, Bishopton, Park Mains, Erskine, Campbell street, Renfrew, Tinto Square, Renfrew, East End Park, Paisley, Max-

Councillor Cathy McEwan, Govener of Renfrewshire Councils Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, Said: ‘‘Over the past 18 months and be-

benefit from new play provision.

yond, it’s been clear just how important our green spaces are to our communities

access the the play parks in a bid to support increased walking, Cycling and

Paisley, Elm Drive/Sycamore Ave, Johnstone and Ellerslie Street, Johnstone.

which is why we have made this significant investment into a complete transformation of 14 Play Parks and the refur-

Wheeling in these areas and the general enjoyment of Renfrewshires Green Spaces, while funding from the Scottish

bishment of seven more.

The plans also include refurbishment of equipment in seven other play parks

‘‘We want local famillies and young peo-

Goverment’s Cycling, Walking and safer Streets Fund will provide bicycle and scooter stands too.

ple to be excited to visit their local play park and we’ll work with them to ensure

There will be future phases to the play

Paisley, Dunvegan Ave, Elderslie, Howwood Toddler/Junior, Howwood, Hou-

the new equipment is what they’re looking for. I know that people may feel another play park needs investment too.

area renewel and investment programme for delivery in 2022/2023 and, dependent on funding provision, the

ston Public Park, Houston, Moss Road Park, Bridge of Weir and Inchinnan Playing Fields, Inchinnan.

but we will look at future phases to this investment and we would be able to make

programme may be extended to include additional Play parks within Renfrews-

further improvements then.

hire.

wellton Park, Paisley, Ben Lawers (Hawkhead Park), Paisley, Crags Road, Paisley, Durrockstock Park, Paisley, Morar Drive,

to improve their lifespan and appeal for local people, and this will take place in Robertson Park, Renfrew, Barshaw Park,

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Investment will also be made to improve

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Leisure

Leisure

Work set to start on new athletics facility in Ayr

WORK SET TO START ON NEW ATHLETICS FACILITY IN AYR South Ayrshire Council has just appointed a contractor to build the new athletics facility at Craigie in Ayr.

Heron Bros will start work on the £8.2 million landmark project this July, with the facility taking around a year to complete.

The new athletics hub will feature some of the best sporting facilities around, with an eight lane, 400m running track; 60m indoor running track; and a field events area.

The facility will also boast a 3G all-weather pitch, along with fully accessible changing areas.

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This means that Ayr will be able to hostmore top-class national sporting events,

ed that work on this fantastic athletics facility is set to begin soon. It will become not

which will no doubt be appreciated by

only a focal point for sporting achievement

spectators in the purpose built, all-seated

in South Ayrshire, it will also encourage the

grandstand.

wider public to get active, providing them

The facility, which will be located on the former college site next to Ayr Academy, will have good access to the local roads network and onsite parking will also be available.

Councillor Peter Henderson, Leader of South Ayrshire Council and Chair of the Project Steering Group said: “I am delight

with further opportunity locally to grow well, live well and age well.

“This project demonstrates partnership working at its best. With the support and input of Ayr Seaforth Athletics Club, Ayr Rugby Club, Ayr United Football Academy, University of the West of Scotland and Ayrshire College, we know that we will have the best athletics facility possible.”

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Eduation

Education

COUNCIL TO HOST EDUCATION CLIMATE SUMMIT IN OCTOBER

Council to host Education Climate Summit in October

Schools, voluntary organisations, charities and businesses from across Argyll and Bute will come together in October to host Argyll and Bute Council’s first ever Education Climate Summit.

The event will take place via an online platform on Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 October – a week before COP 26 – and will see a range key speakers joining forces to raise awareness about a variety of climate change issues.

Each session will last approximately one hour and will include presentations by a wide selection of groups, including The Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), local schools, ALIEnergy, Wreckspeditions Dive Charters Ltd, Time for Change Argyll, and the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust.

The Council’s Policy Lead for Education, Councillor Yvonne McNeilly, said: “Argyll and Bute Council has signed up to meet Scotland’s target of achieving ‘net zero’ by 2045. We have one of the lowest carbon footprints anywhere in the UK and I firmly believe that if we all make some changes, even small ones, we could become the first local authority to achieve ‘net zero’ per head of population.

“Education is at the very heart of this if we are to succeed and our schools are already doing amazing things to help raise awareness of global issues in our fight against climate change. This summit will be a great opportunity for our communities to come

together and showcase what they are doing to make a difference. It will enable us to unite and highlight the challenges we are facing and what we can all do to help overcome them.

“The key speakers taking part in the summit have each geared their presentations towards a specific audience, from school pupils to local businesses, so there really is something to interest everyone. I would encourage everyone to sign up to at least one of the sessions and help us to build a brighter, greener future for all.”

To see the full programme of events and sign up visit: https://bit.ly/Educationclimatesummit2021

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scottish local authority news

£2.4m nursery expansion complete

Education Education

£2.4M NURSERY EXPANSION COMPLETE

THERE is gold at the end of the rainbow in Port Glasgow following the completion of a 2.4 million nursery extension .

Rainbow Family Centre has been transformed with the addition of a brand new wing in time for the return of staff and young people next week after the summer holidays.

The work was carried out by contractors CCG (Scotland) on behalf of Inverclyde Council and the local authority’s development partners, hub West Scotland.

The extension features a new main entrance, staff and meeting area, playroom and an outdoor learning space.

It will increase capacity at the early learning centre by 64 to support the council’s doubling of early years provision to 1,140 hours per eligible child annually — a policy which was implemented 12 months ahead of schedule.

Councillor Jim Clocherty, depute leader of Inverclyde Council and convener of education and communities, said: “The extension looks magnificent and really

scottish local authority news

enhances what is already an excellent

nursery’s car park and connected to the

early years establishment here in Port Glasgow.

existing building.

“It’s another welcome addition to our first-class schools and nurseries estate, which is among the best in the UK. “The extra space will support our staff in delivering a high-quality early years education to even more local children and young people ensuring the best possible start to their learning journey.’

Staff are now looking forward to seeing their pupils make the most of the new indoor and outdoor space.

Sonia McKay, acting head of centre at Rainbow, said: “We’re so excited to welcome everyone back to the new-look Rainbow Family Centre, especially our children who will benefit so much from the extra space to play and learn.

“The extension will also be beneficial for our staff to support them with continuing to deliver high quality flexible, early learning for the Park Farm and upper Port Glasgow community.”

The car park has been relocated to the site of the neighbouring former Park Farm Community Hall, which was demolished.

Iain Marley, chief executive of hub West Scotland, said: “We are delighted to continue our fantastic relationship with Inverclyde Council. The extension to the Rainbow Centre forms part of an investment to create two outstanding early learning and childcare facilities. These assets provide high quality learning environments that will play a key role in children’s future development.

David Wylie, CCG managing director, said: “The Rainbow Family Centre extension is a valuable addition to a well-utilised community asset.

“CCG, alongside our partners hub West, have had the privilege of supporting Inverclyde Council’s ambitious education investment programme for a number of years now with Rainbow now being the fourth project in as many years to have been completed across the regional area.

The new wing has been being built in the Page

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Education Education

Dunoon Grammar becomes Scotland’s first Digital Schoolhouse

DUNOON GRAMMAR BECOMES SCOTLAND’S FIRST DIGITAL SCHOOLHOUSE Pupils and staff at Dunoon Grammar are celebrating the news that the school has become Scotland’s first ever Digital Schoolhouse.

As a Digital Schoolhouse (DSH), Dunoon Grammar, together with Nintendo UK, will use play-based learning to engage the next generation of learners and teachers with the computing science curriculum.

The Digital Schoolhouse initiative is delivered by the UK games industry’s trade body Ukie and is backed by the creative digital industries and government. Sponsors include digital heavyweights including PlayStation®, SEGA, Ubisoft and Outright Games.

Dunoon Grammar joins 50 existing Digital Schoolhouses located across the globe who work with a growing network of local primary and secondary teachers to deliver free creative and cross curricular computing science workshop using play-based learning.

In the academic year 2021-2022, Ukie hopes to support 30,000 learners and 3,500 teachers through the initiative. This provision supports the computing programme of study for the national curriculum in a way that leaves pupils and teachers feeling inspired about, and engaged with, computing and the wider creative digital industries.

The workshops, aimed at local primary schools, put theory into practice and help teachers embed the Digital Schoolhouse methods in their own lessons, with ongoing personalised support and continued professional development (CPD). Underpinned by evidence-based research and combined with ground-breaking careers education, the programme successfully bridges the gap between academia and industry, to ensure pupils are aptly equipped for the future digital economy.

This recognition is the latest in a long list of business and computing related accolades for Dunoon Grammar, which includes winning the Apps for Good UK School of the Year, becoming the first Scottish school

to receive the JA European Entrepreneurial Award and the first Scottish school to showcase at World Education Week.

Argyll and Bute Council’s Policy Lead for Education, Councillor Yvonne McNeilly, said: “Just when you think they’ve reached their peak, Dunoon Grammar does it again. To say I’m proud is an understatement.

“Dunoon is really leading the way when it comes to digital learning, and this is down to sheer hard work, commitment and dedication of pupils and teaching staff, and the support of our parents and carers.

“The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the importance of digital connectivity, so it is tremendous to see Dunoon Grammar promoting learning opportunities that help to build on this now and in the future. Congratulations to everyone involved. You never cease to amaze me.”

David Mitchell, Dunoon Head Teacher said: “This is fantastic news for our wider school community. We are excited to be able to offer these rich learning opportunities to young people in our partner primary schools and In doing so, we hope to

support colleagues in our primary schools further enrich their knowledge of the Curriculum for Excellence Computing Science provision and strengthen further our P7 transition activities”.

Paul Gallanagh, who will be Lead Teacher for the initiative within Dunoon Grammar, added: “I would like to thank Ukie and associate supporters for welcoming Dunoon Grammar School as a Digital Schoolhouse.

This is a great honour for our school and we are looking forward to extending our own skills and knowledge through participation on this pioneering programme. We will be meeting with local primary Head Teachers soon to plan how to maximise this experience for their young people.”

Shahneila Saeed Head of Education, Ukie and Director, Digital Schoolhouse said: “We are thrilled to have Dunoon Grammar School join the Digital Schoolhouse programme, enabling us to support Scottish students for the very first time. Having a visionary school such as Dunoon Grammar is an ideal creative collaboration and we look forward to bringing our play-based learning approach to Scotland.”

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scottish local authority news

Education

Former Bridge of Orchy School For Sale

Education

FORMER BRIDGE OF ORCHY SCHOOL FOR SALE

Argyll and Bute has some of the most stunning countryside in the world, from forests to mountains, lochs and islands.

The perfect opportunity to enjoy everything the area has to offer is now available. The Council is looking for a buyer for the former Bridge of Orchy Primary School and Schoolhouse.

The old schoolhouse is located in a beautiful location, making it an idea base for a residential or commercial development.

Situated on a prominent 0.41 acre site close to the village’s railway station, the property offers a perfect work-life balance.

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Part of a vibrant community, the buildings are only a short distance from one of Scotland’s most scenic walks, the 95-mile West Highland Way, which runs from Milngavie to Fort William.

The main property consists of the schoolhouse and annex, a traditional building with a rendered finish and pitched slated roof.

The schoolhouse comprises a lounge-type area of 4.44m x 3.66m and kitchen of 2.77m x 3.94m,

a bathroom and two bedrooms of 3m x 2.74m and 3.78m x 3.39m. The annex has a 2.49m x 4.85m kitchen and 6.09m x 5.09m dining room.

There is also a separate building within the grounds. The site is served by mains electricity, private water supplies and connected to a private sewerage system.

The Council invites offers for the property with the closing date set for 12 noon on Thursday 30th September 2021.

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Association Profile

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scottish local authority news

Association Profile ASSOCIATION PROFILE

Some of the main initiatives that SCOTSS is currently involved in are:

Professional Organisation: SCOTSS Sector: Trading Standards Formed: 1996 Scottish Contact: Ken Daly T: 07720 538 349 Website: www.scotss.org.uk

In common with many Scottish local authority services, senior managers in trading standards services have a longestablished professional association to provide leadership and consistency across Scotland.

The Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland (SCOTSS), was formed in 1996 carrying on the work of its predecessor the Society of Directors of Trading Standards in the regional councils and has members from each of Scotland’s 31 council services, with Stirling and Clackmannan councils operating a joint Trading Standards service. SCOTSS is a charitable organisation and provides support to local authority members, for example with training and development of staff, with interpretation of legislation through SCOTSS’ expert groups, and with sharing of good practice between councils.

The Society liaises with local council colleagues across the UK as most Trading Standards duties are reserved and engages with Scottish and UK governments and others around the operation of the consumer protection landscape. scottish local local authority authoritynews news scottish

Approved Trader: Highlighted opposite, SCOTSS strongly supports the growth of local authority ‘assured’ trader schemes, which provide consumer and community protection against rogue and itinerant traders and help support and sustain local small businesses in the service sector. The number of councils running their own scheme, after the launch of the Dundee Trusted Trader scheme in 2005, has grown rapidly with more than half of Scotland’s councils operating one. The launch of the SCOTSS Approved Trader Portal www.approvedtrader.scot three years ago joins up all these schemes within one consumer focussed portal, where consumers can search freely across all schemes by postcode, safe in the knowledge that the traders listed have been vetted and approved by Trading Standards and can be trusted to do a good job around the home. In most cases, consumers can also view feedback from previous customers to check for quality and satisfaction with work. Schemes are usually selffunding, contact coordinator@scotss. org.uk for further details if you are interested in starting one in your council area.

Covid-19 pandemic: SCOTSS, along with colleagues in environmental health, set up an expert group in March 2020 to advise local authorities on the new Scottish Government restrictions and liaise with officials from government and other regulators.

To date local services have dealt with over 20,000 requests for advice from business, 75,000 interventions by officers, and 20,000 complaints, and the group has won several awards for its innovative approach.

new officers can be brought into the profession more easily to safeguard succession planning.

Tobacco Control: SCOTSS has worked for over ten years with Scottish Government and councils, to ensure a high priority is given to tobacco and NVP enforcement in Scotland, to safeguard young people from the dangers of smoking and vaping, and working with HMRC, to crack down on the illicit supply of tobacco within Scotland.

Brexit and borders: SCOTSS work with the Ports and Borders team at OPSS and with Scottish councils at ports such as Grangemouth and Glasgow and Edinburgh airports, to make sure that consumer products imported into the UK via Scotland post-Brexit are safe and cannot cause harm to consumers.

We provide additional resource to these councils to make additional checks and work with other agencies like Border Force and HMRC to make sure Scotland is safer.

More details on any of these areas can be gained by contacting: Ken Daly SCOTSS National Coordinator www.scotss.org.uk @socotss 07720538349

Workforce Strategy: An aging workforce is at the root of a real viability issue for trading standards services and SCOTSS is working with COSLA and others to try and ensure that resource levels are maintained or improved. We are also working to ensure there is a fit for purpose qualification route so that

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Legal&&Personnel Personnel Legal

Chief Officer for Angus Health and Social Care Partnership announced

CHIEF OFFICER FOR ANGUS HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCED

Gail Smith has been appointed as the Chief Officer of the Angus Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP).

Gail has held the post of Interim Chief Officer since February 2020. She started her career in Tayside as a nurse, specialising in coronary care, stroke services and elderly care. In February 2016, following the integration of health and social care, she was appointed to the post of Head of Community Health and Care Services for the Angus HSCP. Welcoming Gail to her permanent position, Emma Jane Wells, Chair of Angus IJB, said, “We are delighted that Gail will now be permanently at the helm of the Angus HSCP. Since taking up the interim post, Gail has successfully led us through the COVID-19 pandemic, keeping the communities of Angus at the forefront of everything she does.”

Chief Executive of NHS Tayside, Grant Archibald said, “Gail is a truly valued member of the health and social care team and has she has spent her career putting patients and communities first.

“Her impressive track record shows she always strives to make a difference for people in Angus and I know she will continue to do so in her new role.”

Gail said, “My time as Interim Chief Officer has been challenging. Ensuring the people of Angus receive the best level of care during the COVID-19 pandemic has been something I will not forget. However, it is a challenge I’ve been proud to take on and look forward to driving forward future im-

Angus Council’s Chief Executive Margo Williamson said, “Gail has demonstrated

provements for the Angus HSCP.

significant leadership and resilience over the past 15 months in the role of Interim Chief Officer. Her skills, diligence and dedication to the people of Angus is evident in everything she does.”

“Taking on the role as Chief Officer, I remain committed to the people of Angus and I will work to ensure they live happier and healthier lives within their communities.”

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scottish local authority news

Legal Legal&&Personnel Personnel

Renfrewshire Council Chief Executive announces her retirement

RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL CHIEF EXECUTIVE ANNOUNCES HER RETIREMENT fore being appointed Director of Finance in 2005 - a post she held until 2014 when she was appointed Chief Executive. She said: “It has been a great privilege to work in Renfrewshire at a senior level for almost 23 years and to serve the Council as its Chief Executive.

I want to thank all elected members for their support over the years and pay special tribute to the dedicated team of people across the Council who give so much to public service in Renfrewshire - it has been an honour to lead such a talented, committed workforce.

Renfrewshire Council Chief Executive Sandra Black, who was responsible for the organisation’s role in the recent Paisley bid for UK City of Culture and for the delivery of Renfrewshire’s City Deal investment, has announced her retirement.

“The Council has undergone significant change, especially in the past 18 months in response to the pandemic. I anticipate by the end of 2021 that our recovery plans for the Council and the foundations for our new ways of working will be firmly established. The time will be right then to hand over to a new Chief Executive who can take the Council through the next stages of its development and transformation to continue

to serve our local communities and support our businesses.”

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson said: “I would like to thank Sandra for her continuing leadership and support over the years and pay tribute to the commitment she has constantly demonstrated in supporting our local communities and businesses. These skills and attributes have become even more pronounced as we adapted and changed to meet the impact and challenges of the pandemic.

“Sandra always kept Renfrewshire’s best interests at the forefront of her work, securing a fantastic long term cultural legacy from the recent City of Culture bid, attracting City Deal investment to the area and working with numerous partners to tackle poverty and raise attainment in our communities. She will leave an organisation well placed to continue this ambition and I wish her well for the future.”

Sandra has worked in public service for almost 40 years and has been responsible for leading the council’s emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also played a key role in the establishment of Renfrewshire’s Alcohol and Drugs Commission, working to help improve the lives of people and families who have been affected by alcohol and drugs.

She will leave the post at the end of 2021 and the process to recruit a successor is now underway.

Sandra has been with Renfrewshire Council since 1998, beginning work in the Council’s finance service bescottish local authority news

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Legal& & Personnel Personnel Legal

Tributes paid to Councillor Ian Ramon

TRIBUTES PAID TO COUNCILLOR IAN RAMON

The Highland Council has paid tribute to Councillor Ian Ramon who sadly died on Thursday 16 September 2021.

Councillor Ramon was elected in the 2017 local Government Election of The Highland Council for Ward: 21 Fort William and Ardnamurchan and served on the Lochaber Committee and Communities and Place Committee.

Convener of the Council, Cllr Bill Lobban paid tribute to Cllr Ramon. He said: “Ian was a well-respected Member of Highland Council and he will be sorely missed by fellow Members.

His keen input into our debates was much appreciated. Unfortunately,

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due to the pandemic, I had not seen him person- ally for quite some time but in better times our joint interest in lighthouses was always extremely interesting. Our thoughts are with his family and close friends at this sad time.”

“l can only express my deepest sorrow with his family at this sudden and difficult news”

Cllr Andrew Jarvie, Leader of the Scottish Conservative & Unionist Group in The Highland Council, said: ‘I”This news comes as such a shock to all of us, he was an incredible man who always seemed to bounce back and eager to get back to Council meetings.

“As an immensely popular local man, Ian will be missed not just by all of us in the Scottish Conservative Group, but a great many on the peninsula and across the Highlands. scottish local authority news

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