Issue - meetings

Fergus Murray reported on strategic land uses and detailed that with the new Planning Bill it would be necessary to develop plans every 5 years. And that this would be an almost continuous process

He provided updates to  the group regarding :

Ø      Main Issues report and key changes detailed within.

Ø      Transportation issues – difficulties facing rural communities

Ø      Rising fuel prices

Ø      Craignish Community Plan – shortlisted for Scottish Government planning award.  Fergus and his team would assist other local communities in developing their plans

Ø      Coast and Community Trust – plans to secure core funding from partners and Argyll and Bute Council to progress the Trust

Ø      Expansion of Kilmory Industrial Estate  - further development to extend the industrial estate as an economic driver for the local area  

He informed the group of a recent meeting he had with the Head of Regeneration for Scotland at Kilmory.  He detailed the challenging times for offshore Renewables in the local area.

Jeanette Laughton reported that Ardrishaig had been given an award  as the best Windfarm in the UK.

The Chair thanked Fergus for his informative update on local planning issues.