Agenda and minutes

The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting.

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of:

Councillor Gemma Penfold

Councillor Mark Irvine

Lindsey Young, Argyll and Bute Climate Action Network/Cardross Community Council

Morevain Martin, Garelochhead Support Trust

Caryl Mclean, Third Sector Interface

Fiona Baker, Destination Helensburgh/Rhu & Shandon Community Council

Olena Mishanina, NHS Highland

Jon Fletcher, Royal Navy

Louise Mathis, UHI Argyll

Susan MacRae, Skills Development Scotland

Jen Broadhurst, Argyll and Bute Citizen’s Advice Bureau

Becky Hothersall, Poverty Alliance

Natalie Lewis, Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity

Vicky Brindley, Naval Families Federation

Veronica Ferguson, Living Well Network

The Chair welcomed Hazel MacInnes and Joanne Gaughan to the meeting and noted her thanks to Julieann Small for the support she had offered to the Area Community Planning Group.

There were no declarations of interest intimated.

The Minute of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group meeting held on Tuesday 12 November 2024 was approved as a correct record.

The Group considered the actions from the previous meeting and noted that the majority were completed or in the process of being completed, with the exception of the action in relation to Jayne Burnett delivering a presentation concerning Visiting Friends which will be carried forward to a future meeting. 

The Group also agreed to carry forward updates on the removal of white meter connectivity and the PTSN switch-off, noting that the next meeting coincides with the point of switch off.

Having noted the commitments of those in attendance, the Chair agreed to vary the order of business to facilitate attendees. This minute reflects the order in which items were discussed.

The Group gave consideration to an update from Rhona Grant and Caroline Whitson, Live Argyll. The update provided information on Adult Learning Provision in Helensburgh; Helensburgh and Lomond Youth work/services; Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament; and the Independent Review of Community Learning and Development.

Paul Ashworth, Services and Support Manager, Live Argyll, gave a verbal update on the work being undertaken to deliver the service after the damage sustained to the Leisure Centre during Storm Eowyn.  Mr Ashworth confirmed that the library’s books and facilities have moved to the vacant pavilion in Hermitage Park and that he hopes that the gym will be open within the next week.

There was discussion around the decision making process involved in the reorganisation of LiveArgyll services following the storm, the Vice-Chair sought reassurance that the library move would be a temporary measure and that it would not result in a closure or reduction in library services in the longer term. In particular the services provided for underserved members of the community were highlighted. These included the learning cafe, community learning, activities for young families and the provision of computer facilities and a welcoming space.

The Chair as a trustee of the Friends of Hermitage Park expressed disappointment that information regarding the move of the library had gone out publically before this had been discussed or agreed with all those involved. She noted that a number of groups who regularly use the community room would no longer be able to. 

Action – Paul Ashworth to liaise with Eileen McKay around the proposed relocation of the Waverley model within Helensburgh Leisure Centre.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Live Argyll, submitted)

Report by Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council

The Group gave consideration to a report which outlined the governance arrangements of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group (Area CPG) specifically the Terms of Reference, membership and the future meeting dates.

Action - Gill Simpson to provide contact details for Centre 81 to Committee Manager.

Action – John McLuckie to provide the Vice-Chair with further details on Area Community Planning Action Plans.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group:

1.    considered and adopted the Terms of Reference submitted at Appendix 1 of

the report and to agree that they would be reviewed on an annual basis to

ensure their ongoing currency and appropriateness for the work of the Area

CPG as it develops over time;

2.    considered and agreed the membership of the group at Appendix 2 of the

report, subject to the inclusion of the National Farmers Union, Scotland and Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), and that the

membership of the Group would be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure

currency and appropriateness for the work of the group as it develops over

time; and

3.    noted the future meeting dates submitted within the report subject to the

change of the date for February 2026.

(Reference: Report by Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 4

February 2025, submitted)

Report by Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council

The Group gave consideration to a report which outlined matters discussed during a meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee held on 6 December 2024. The report provided information on a number of cross cutting themes such as the Census – Population Update; Joint Strategic Needs Assessment from NHS Highland, CPP Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan; CPP Community Wealth Building; Argyll and Bute Council Equalities Outcomes Consultation and Audit Scotland’s Tackling Digital Exclusion.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the report.

(Reference: Report by Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council dated 4

February 2025, submitted)

Report by Climate Change Project Manager, Argyll & the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust

Consideration was given to a report providing an update on the Community Planning Partnership’s Argyll and Bute Climate Action Project: Developing a Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan for Argyll and Bute. Andy MacPherson advised that he was working with the Councils resilience team with a view to enhance resilience at a more local level after lessons learned following Storm Eowyn.

Action – Andy MacPherson and Angela Anderson to discuss making complex information more accessible.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the approach and status of the project outlined in the report.

(Reference: Report by Climate Change Project Manager, Argyll & the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust, dated 22 January 2025, submitted)

There were no verbal updates provided under this item.

Presentation by Project Manager and Project Officers, Argyll and Bute Council

The Group gave consideration to a presentation by Project Officers from Argyll and Bute Council, in relation to the Council’s Aspiring Places; Community Project in Argyll and Bute. The presentation provided background information in relation to the revised approach which is deemed to be more sustainable, dynamic, and an efficient way to not only capture community projects, but allow community groups to use CONSUL Democracy as a ‘shop window’ to attract funders and promote collaboration.

Lucy Dunbar and Milly Leggett outlined the project’s next steps and noted that it will launch at the end of March 2025.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Presentation by Corporate Support Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, submitted)

Consideration was given to an update which provided information on the ongoing work of the Service and information on serious and organised crime; acquisitive crime; road safety and road crime; ASB and violent crime; public protection; domestic abuse; youth engagement and introduction of a new mobile police office.

Inspector Simonis thanked Partners and communities on behalf of local policing for the assistance provided in the wake of Storm Eowyn.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Police Scotland, dated January/February 2025, submitted submitted)

The Group gave consideration to a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ3 review of local performance across Helensburgh and Lomond for the period 2024-25. The report included information on the local firefighter training plan; accidental dwelling fires; casualties; deliberate secondary fire setting; fires in non-domestic property; casualties from non-fire emergencies; unwanted fire alarm signals; incidents and activities of note and community engagement activities.

Christopher Spence highlighted the change in policy regarding Fire Safety Home Visits, specifically that visits will only now be made to those who meet criteria as a ‘high risk’ individual.

Following a question about community engagement in the Helensburgh and Lomond area it was noted that a Young Firefighters Group is to be set up in Helensburgh and Lomond in the near future.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted)

Consideration was given to a public health update from Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership’s Public Health Team on the ongoing wellbeing and prevention activities overseen and delivered by them in Argyll and Bute. The update provided information on the Argyll and Bute Joint Strategic Needs Assessment which was published in December 2024; the expansion of the Community Link Working service; the launch of the Mental Health Hub – Living Well in Argyll and Bute digital resource and mental health awareness and suicide prevention training available.

The report also provided information on the work undertaken as part of the alcohol and drugs partnership; the screening inequalities grants funding which has been awarded to Argyll and Bute; the end of the Waverly Care contract; and the end of the existing Living Well Network coordination.

Angela Coll highlighted that training is taking place for new Community Link Workers recently appointed, and noted that the comments from the Group with reference to the end of the Living Well Network will be fed back to Management.

The Vice-Chair wanted to put on record her disappointment at the decision to withdraw funding from the Living Well Network.

Action – Detail on what community consultation had taken place in reaching the decision to withdraw funding from the Living Well Network to be circulated to Partners.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Health Improvement Senior, Argyll and Bute Health

and Social Care Partnership, dated February 2025, submitted)

Consideration was given to an update from David Hagerty, Community Development Officer at Argyll and Bute Council. The update included information on the ongoing work with community groups, including the Princess Louise Hall; Welcome In; Kirkmichael Community Development Group; Parents for Change group; Helensburgh Hub and Jean’s Bothy. 

The report also included details of collaborative work with the TSI and the Aspiring Places project.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council, submitted)

Consideration was given to a written update from Helensburgh Community Hub which provided information on the launch of Helensburgh Repair café; Helensburgh Book Festival, and the Hub’s 5 year plan.

Gill Simpson highlighted that she is in the process of creating a new 5 year plan alongside Community Enterprise, and noted a request for Partners to assist by engaging with Community Enterprise.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Helensburgh Community Hub, submitted)

Consideration was given to an update from Caryl Mclean from Argyll and Bute TSI.  The update included information about the Day Services for Older People review; Volunteer of the Year 2025 Award; activities of the Wellbeing Development Manager; Winter Welcome Spaces and the Argyll and Bute Resilience and Transformation fund.

The Chair highlighted that Helensburgh is the location of the Volunteer of the Year Awards ceremony this year.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute TSI, submitted)

Consideration was given to an update from Transport Scotland which highlighted the continuing traffic management arrangements at the Rest and Be Thankful, and that traffic management and hillside monitoring is being conducted as per the day to day Management Plan, as well as being co-ordinated with the ongoing ground investigation works relating to the long term solution; the report also provided an update on ongoing and planned works on the A82.

Action – Ian Woodstock to provide an update at the next meeting on the issue of safety cameras and to request that the ferries directorate provide an update on the Gourock to Kilcreggan ferry at a future meeting of the Community Planning Group.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Area Manager, Transport Scotland, submitted)

Consideration was given to a report by Fun First which highlighted existing and upcoming sessions including those for new and expectant parents, and outdoor sessions; expressed gratitude for a grant from the Armed Forces Covenant; appointment of a new Service Manager and ongoing training of three new leaders.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report from Fun First, submitted)

Consideration was given to a written update from Helensburgh Community Council which included information about a Judicial Review regarding the Helensburgh Waterfront Development; work on a Helensburgh Place Plan; the removal of the Bank of Scotland branch, and the Music in the Square Fund.

Sarah Davies highlighted that there are 2 vacancies on the Community Council  , as well as the upcoming events being held to consult on the local place plan and the proposed Visitor Levy.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the provided information.

(Reference: Report by Helensburgh Community Council, submitted)

Consideration was given to a report from Helensburgh and Lomond Living Well Network which outlined the service provision of the Network and that funding for the service has been withdrawn.  The report also noted and expressed thanks for the input of past and present coordinators.

Veronica Ferguson, Helensburgh & Lomond Living Well Network Coordinator, sent apologies, and thanked everyone for the opportunities to work together that were created since being in post, and noted her disappointment that there will no longer be a coordinator and will be in touch with everyone in the network to suggest they all keep in touch. 

The Chair noted thanks to Veronica for her support and attendance at meeting of the Community Planning Group.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report from Helensburgh and Lomond Living Well Network, submitted)

Cove and Kilcreggan Community Council - Digital switch over

The Group noted that Cove and Kilcreggan Community Council continue to have serious concerns around the PTSN and RTS switch-off.

Action – The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group agreed that concerns around the PTSN and RTS switch-off be highlighted to the CPP Management Committee in March 2025.

Helensburgh Gaelic Group

In the absence of a representative from the Helensburgh Gaelic Group the Committee Manager advised that the Group continues to meet on Tuesdays in Helensburgh Parish Church at 1330 and all are welcome.

Poverty Alliance

In the absence of a representative from the Poverty Alliance the Committee Manager advised that the next anti-poverty meet-up takes place on Monday February 24th, details can be found at:

https://www.povertyalliance.org/event/argyll-and-bute-meet-up-anti-poverty-sharing-and-networking-event/

Visitor Levy Proposal

On behalf of colleagues in Economic Growth, the Committee Manager, advised that the Council is running a formal visitor levy consultation until 10 April 2025 and urged Partners to find out what it could mean for them and the area and to give their views. The consultation can be accessed here: council website.

Stuart also confirmed that the Council will be hosting a series of drop-in events and online information webinars to help people in Argyll and Bute to find out more and get involved in assessing the possible introduction of a Visitor Levy.

The online webinars will last one hour, to book a space please follow this link Visitor levy information events to take place across Argyll and Bute Stuart added that there is no requirement to book a space for the drop-in events which will be held across Argyll and Bute. Stuart highlighted the event in Helensburgh on 20 March, hosted in the Victoria Halls 4.00pm-7pm.

Consideration was given to the report which provided statistical information and details of Advice Provision and Services within the Bureau, and gave information on volunteer and paid recruitment currently being undertaken.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report from Argyll and Bute Citizen’s Advice Bureau)

Verbal update by the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group Community Wealth Building Short Term Working Group

Consideration was given to a verbal report updating the Group on the activity of the Community Wealth Building Short-Term Working Group, which was established at the August 2024 meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group.

Gill Simpson provided information on the work being undertaken to explore different aspects of community wealth building; ways of generating resource; skills and experience to build wealth as a community; vehicles to deliver Community Wealth Building; next steps, including sharing best practice with other communities in Argyll and Bute who are ahead with their projects, as well as other Councils.  

Action – Committee Manager to invite a representative of the Community Benefit Team to a future meeting of the Community Planning Group.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided.

(Reference: Verbal update from the Area Community Planning Group Community Wealth Building Short-Term Working Group)

The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 13 May  2025.

The Group noted that the next meeting of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group would take place on Tuesday 13 May 2025.