Issue - meetings

It was reported that the CC is “ticking over well” and is working steadily.   The CC has worked with the Lochgaire Amenity Association and the Woodland Trust and has assisted in organising community consultations with the two associations.  The CC has also been involved in assisting obtaining funding and developing the organisation.  It was noted with some concern that discussions with Wind farms appear to have gone  have gone quiet.   This lack of communication is worrying to the CC since not all issues were settled.

Re the Tullochgorm War Memorial, the Cc has been in discussion with the land owner where the memorial is sited, and he has granted permission for the necessary works to maintain the monument.

It was noted that the BEAR team cutting the verges of the A83  at Lochgair had used a chain flail, but that it had been set at an angle which caused a significant number of lengths of wooden root to stick up like spears which present a real danger to motorcyclist and cyclists    The Area Governance Officer was asked to enquire whether the angle could be modified

Leonard McNeill updated the group on recent conservation work at the War Memorial and highlighted major problems which had been encountered in the Village Hall.  He outlined various road issues and highlighted the potential impact of these onto tourist traffic in the summer.  

Leonard McNeill noted that an issue had arisen recently at Minard regarding the rerouting of some sewage pipework at the side of the main road directly in front of housing in the village, it was noted that some time ago land was rented by the Community Council in order that Scottish Water could route some pipework across it at ground level.  This was done and the surrounding area landscaped, which restored the amenity of the immediate area.  Unfortunately, apparently  the pipework was not functioning as efficiently as required, and the Community Council are now  concerned to note that the pipework has been substantially changed without any consultation  and at this time sits approximately three feet above ground, and is most unattractive. The preferred option from the Community Council perspective is obviously for the pipes to be at ground level or buried.  If however, this solution will not work the Community Council  are open to discussion as to how best to shield the pipes.

The Area Governance Officer agreed to contact Scottish Water to raise this issue.

Fred Bruce reported on the following:-

• Recent rumours in regards the closure of the Primary school in Minard.
• Community Council had been re-instigated in West Lochfyne.

Discussion continued and Councillor Philand commented that, to his knowledge, there were no plans to re-visit the School Estates issue at the present time although there could be no guarantee that this wouldn’t be looked at in the future.

The Chair thanked Fred for his informative update.   

Leonard McNeill reported on the following:-

• Roads Department had undertaken remedial work on the potholes at Upper Achagoyle.

There was no update.

There was no representative from West Lochfyne Community Council.

There were no representatives from the CC.