Decision details

The Committee gave consideration to a report providing an update on progress inters of the development of the Levelling Up Fund Bids, following on from the update provided in September 2021.

Decision

The Policy and Resources Committee –

1.    Noted the progress with the two bids and approved that the bids are now titled Argyll and Bute Western Seaboard Marine Gateways Initiative and Connected Argyll and Bute.

2.    Approved the removal of the Ardrishaig/Crinan Canal element of the regeneration bid.

3.    Approved the adjustment to the Oban Integrated Transport Hub to become a Hydrogen Fuelling station (Hydroban).

4.    Approved that up to £150,000 can be drawn down from the Recovery and Renewal Fund subject to the Chief Executive and the two Executive Directors being satisfied that the monies are for the purposes of developing the Levelling Up Fund bids.

5.    Agreed that the Chief Executive and the two Executive Directors are delegated authority to approve any alterations required to elements of the bids, as agreed by Council in September 2021, as revised today, where this is necessary to meet deadlines for submission, after consultation with the Leader, Depute Leader and Leader of the largest Opposition Group.

6.    Agreed that the Chief Executive and the two Executive Directors are delegated authority to approve the final bid submissions in the period from and including 5 May 2022, when Councillors demit office in anticipation of the Local Government election to be held on that date, until the first meeting of the Council when an administration is formed.

Councillor Douglas Philand, after moving an amendment which failed to find a seconder, requested that his dissent be recorded from the foregoing decision.

(Reference:  Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth dated 24 January 2022, submitted)