Issue - meetings

Presentation by Local Government Boundary Commission

The Group considered a report which advised of the Boundary Commission for Scotland’s proposals for Argyll and Bute area.

Colin Wilson and Ailsa Henderson provided an overview of the changes proposed to the ward boundaries within Argyll and Bute and provided information around the framework which the Local Government Boundary Commission operated within.

Discussion took place around the benefits of Coll and Tiree being represented separately by their own Councillor; the increased representation which could be achieved by having Councillors local to the island communities they represent; the difference in requirements of island and mainland communities; the requirement for sufficient consultation with rural and island communities; the restrictions created by the need for parity across wards; potential changes required in terms of legislation; the definition of effective and convenient local government; and the need for more consultation to take place within communities to ascertain their views.

It was agreed that the Boundary Commission would arrange a further meeting with representatives from the Coll and Tiree communities. Ailsa invited further questions and comments to be addressed to the Local Government Boundary Commission, particularly around the community’s definitions of effective and convenient local government as well as any potential solutions in terms of the division of wards in the area.  Colin Wilson advised that further details regarding the review were available on the Local Government Boundary Commission’s website at https://lgbc-scotland.gov.uk/2019-reviews-electoral-arrangements, noting that any further questions or comments could be directed to the Local Government Boundary Commission by e-mail at lgbcs@scottishboundaries.gov.uk and feedback to the consultation could be given at https://consult.lgbc-scotland.gov.uk/reviews/argyll_and_bute_council_area_public_consultation/

The Chair thanked the Local Government Boundary Commission representatives for their presentation and noted that she would be interested to see the results of the consultation.

Decision

The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group;

1.    noted the position;

2.    noted that a further meeting would take place between the Local Government Boundary Commission and community representatives from Coll and Tiree; and

3.    noted that further questions and comments could be addressed to the Local Government Boundary Commission using the details provided.

(Reference: Report by the Local Government Boundary Commission for Scotland, dated 11 November 2020, submitted)

Discussion facilitated by Chair in relation to Local Government Boundary Commission Proposals

The Group considered a report which advised of the Boundary Commission for Scotland’s proposals for Argyll and Bute area.

Discussion focused on ward sizes and the need to ensure there is adequate social housing.

Decision

The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group;

1.    noted the position; and

2.    requested that an officer from Argyll and Bute Strategic Housing Planning Group and Housing Services come to next meeting in February 2021.