Agenda and minutes

The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting and introductions were made.

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of:

Ian Woodcock, Transport Scotland

Paul Monaghan, Argyll Community Housing Association

Rhona Grant, Live Argyll

Alasdair MacCuish, Helensburgh Gaelic Group

There were no declarations of interest intimated.

The Minute of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group meeting held on Tuesday 11 February 2025 was approved as a correct record.

The Group considered the actions from the previous meeting and noted that the majority had been completed or were in the process of being completed. It was agreed to carry forward the actions to have the Waverley model installed in Helensburgh Leisure Centre as part of the renovation works, to have an update from Ian Woodstock on safety cameras on the A82 to the next meeting of the Group; that a representative from CalMac be invited to attend a future meeting; and that a meeting would be arranged with Alison McGrory, Samantha Campbell and ACPG Chairs and Vice Chairs to discuss the consultation work undertaken prior to the dissolution of the Living Well Network.

ACTION – The Waverley model to be installed in Helensburgh Leisure Centre as part of the renovation works.

ACTION – Ian Woodstock to provide an update on safety cameras on the A82, and a representative from CalMac be invited to attend a future meeting.

ACTION – Chairs and Vice Chairs to meet with Alison McGrory and Samantha Campbell, to discuss the consultation work undertaken prior to the dissolution of the Living Well Network and report back to the next ACPG meeting. 

Presentation by EE BT Digital Voice Engagement Lead for Scotland

The Group gave consideration to a presentation by Sodhi Dhillon, EE and BT Digital Voice Engagement Lead for Scotland.

The presentation provided background information in relation to the Public Switched Telephone Network switch-off, introducing the replacement broadband-based Digital Voice. Sodhi highlighted how BT will identify vulnerable customers and how they would be supported during the transition. It was noted that a dedicated landline service would continue to be provided for customers without broadband.  Further discussion took place around backup facilities for Telecare services in the event of a power outage. 

Decision

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

ACTION – Group admin to share the Presentation and details of an upcoming information event with Partners to distribute to their contacts.

(Reference: Report by EE BT Engagement Lead for Scotland, submitted)

Presentation by Contract and Demand Management Officer, Argyll and Bute Council

The Group gave consideration to a report and a presentation by Ashley MacKay, Contract and Demand Management Officer at Argyll and Bute Council.

The report highlighted the Community Benefits which had been achieved over the 2023-24 financial year and the first 2 quarters of 2024-25, as well as outlining the definition of Community Benefits along with the Council’s aims and intended implementation methods.

Ashley’s presentation provided detail about how procurement methods can maximise social, economic, and environmental benefits to communities.  Ashley highlighted that legislation enabled public bodies to include community benefits in the procurement process, with delivery of benefits becoming part of the KPIs of the project. She advised that contractors are required to commit to providing one or more elements of  support from a list of identified needs of community groups, obtained by seeking engagement via mail drops and social media.

Decision

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

ACTION – Group admin to share the Presentation with Partners.

(Reference: Report by Contract and Demand Management Officer, Argyll and Bute Council, submitted)

Discussion facilitated by Community Development Team

The Group gave consideration to a presentation from Rona Gold and John McLuckie of the Communities and Partnerships Team, Argyll and Bute Council, which highlighted actions being taken to tackle transport issues in Argyll and Bute. The Group were advised that a list of questions would be circulated amongst Partners following the meeting and discussion was had around the possibility of forming a sub-group of those with a particular interest to respond to the questions collectively.

Decision

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

ACTION - John McLuckie to share a list of questions with Partners for consideration and feedback to the Communities and Partnership Team. Partners to form a sub-group to respond to the questions collectively should they wish to, noting that no resource from the Council was available to facilitate this.

(Reference: Presentation by Communities and Partnerships Team, Argyll and Bute Council, submitted)

The Group gave consideration to a report highlighting Police Scotland’s priorities for the Cowal, Bute and Helensburgh areas. Inspector Bart Simonis highlighted work around building an intelligence picture of individuals who are repeat shoplifting offenders; youth justice groups and with trading standards around call blocking. Details of upcoming areas of focus include an increase in antisocial behaviour over summer months and increased use of illegal ebikes.

Decision

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

(Reference: Report by Police Scotland, 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.

Donald Gillan of SFRS advised of the current service delivery review being undertaken by SFRS, and advised that any proposals would be put through to public consultation before any decisions were made.

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 an update from the Adult Learning Team, Live Argyll.  The update highlighted Adult Learning provision and Youth Work in the Helensburgh area.

The Group raised concern over the proposed reduction in library provision in particular areas of Helensburgh and Lomond, and service provision during the repair period of Helensburgh Leisure Centre, particularly around access to swimming lessons for young people.  It was agreed to seek a response from Live Argyll management on these issues and to request a meeting with a Senior Manager to discuss solutions to these issues.

Decision

ACTION – Rona Gold to contact Live Argyll Management to escalate concerns over library and swimming lesson provision, and to request a meeting with a Senior Manager of Live Argyll.

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

(Reference: Report by Live Argyll, submitted)

Consideration was given to an update from Transport Scotland which highlighted updates to works on the Rest and Be Thankful and the Tarbet to Inverannan section of the A82, as well as ongoing, recently completed, and upcoming works on the A82.

Decision

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

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

Rebecca Robertson introduced herself as the new representative to the Group for NHS Highland. Consideration was given to an 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 Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention Training; Free condoms by post; Speakeasy training and Screening inequalities. 

Concern was raised over the resilience of telecare centres during a large-scale, long-term power outage and it was noted that an update would be sought and provided to the Group at the next meeting.

Concern was also raised over the smart meter switchover and whether checks were being done on those who had been switched over due to the risk of individuals supply being cut off or being switched onto high tariffs.

Decision

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

ACTION – Rebecca to source an update to the next meeting of the Group on the resilience of telecare services during a large-scale long-term power outage and whether checks were being done on individuals affected by the smart meter switchover.

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

and Social Care Partnership, 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; Kirkmichael Community Development Group; Friends of Hermitage Park and Rhu and Shandon Community Council.  David highlighted that the Supporting Communities Fund was open and inviting applications until 26 May, and that Community Development Officers were available to support the completion of applications.

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 an update from Caryl Mclean from Argyll and Bute TSI.  The update included information about TSI lobbying the Scottish Government; Fairer Funding; Meeting with Argyll and Bute Council CEO; Poverty Alliance Campaign; Community Wealth Building; Funding and Volunteer of the Year Awards, highlighting that the ceremony would be held in Rhu this year on 6 June in the Rosslea Hall hotel.  She advised that Partners were invited to attend.

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 the report which provided statistical information and details of Advice Provision and Services within the Bureau, and which gave information on volunteer and paid recruitment currently being undertaken.  The report highlighted that the next intake of volunteers for training would be later this year, Partners were asked to promote the recruitment of volunteers where appropriate.

Decision

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

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

Consideration was given to a report by Fun First which highlighted existing and upcoming sessions including new outdoor sessions and summer holiday sessions; gratitude for various generous grants; details of staffing changes and details of fundraising activities.  The report also highlighted the opportunity for new volunteer members to join the committee.  Sarah Davies introduced Jennifer Marriott, Manager of Fun First, who would represent Fun First in the future.

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 (HCC) which included information about the Local Place Plan; the proposed Banking Hub; the Music in the Square Fund; participation in the Visitor Levy consultation and participation in Resilience Training.  The report highlighted the public questions raised at meetings, as well as the success of the Save the Tower Arts Centre in securing funding for a Community Buy Out. Sarah advised that the Community Council were looking for volunteers to assist with the planting of shrub beds at Colquhoun Square. It was noted that there were currently four vacancies on the Community Council and Sarah advised that they would be looking to co-opt members at their AGM which was being held on the last Thursday of the month.  Sarah introduced Elizabeth Lambert as the new HCC Secretary and representative to the Group.

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 written update from Rhu and Shandon Community Council which included information about the Local Place Plan; a WaterBlitz event and the establishment of a new charity, Rhu and Shandon Community Trust, in response to managing the community purchase of Ardenconnel Wood.  Fiona Baker updated the Group regarding ongoing Traffic Surveys in Rhu.

Decision

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

(Reference: Report by Rhu and Shandon Community Council, submitted)

Consideration was given to a report by Destination Helensburgh which highlighted achievements around Social Media; Media Advertising; the Visitor Information Centre and website, and details of action taken since the organisation started in 2021.  Fiona Baker highlighted that Helensburgh Clan Colquhoun Pipe Band would be playing in Colquhoun Square on Wednesday evenings through June at 7.30pm.

Decision

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

(Reference: Report by Destination Helensburgh, submitted)

Consideration was given to an update from Plastic Free Helensburgh highlighting the recent work carried out by beach clean-up teams, as well as the results of a Water Blitz event.  Angela Anderson highlighted a project to test water at Helensburgh Pier for a year to measure outcomes. Angela also advised that Time for Change had a new initiative to connect with farmers via stalls at agricultural shows to find out how policy decisions were affecting them, and to seek their input on climate change.

Decision

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

(Reference: Report by Plastic Free Helensburgh, submitted)

Poverty Alliance

The Group considered a verbal update from Becky Hothershall of The Poverty Alliance.  Becky highlighted that The Poverty Alliance was working with Argyll and Bute Council and TSI on the Taking Action on Rural Poverty project which hosted a quarterly anti-poverty meet up for groups where the cost of living is an issue.  Becky noted that the next meeting, on 27 May 2025, would focus on applying a human rights lens to combat poverty in communities, focusing on transport and food, and identifying failings on human rights to use as a lever for future action.  She advised that the Alliance also coordinated a citizens panel to create opportunities for people with lived experience of living on a low income or having high costs due to their rural location, to get involved in decision making. She noted that the panel members were keen to contribute to a broad range of work and in particular on the topics of food costs and community resilience to extreme weather. Becky advised that she would provide the link to the meeting on 27 May.

ACTION – Group admin to distribute the link to the meeting on 27 May 2025 to the Group.

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT)

The Group considered a verbal update from Allan Comrie of SPT.  Allan highlighted a consultation being conducted by SPT, advising no decision had yet been made on a new structure. He encouraged participation in the consultation and requested that the link to the consultation be distributed amongst Partners following the meeting.

ACTION – Group admin to distribute the link to the consultation to the Group.

Argyll and Bute Council Consultation on proposed amendments to the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils

Sheelagh O’Reilly urged partners to read the documentation and respond to the consultation on the proposed amendments to the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils; in particular the proposals contained within Appendix 5 setting out the grants to be awarded to Community Councils under the new Scheme.

Consideration was given to an update from Helensburgh Community Hub, which highlighted the work of the Hub and their next 5 year plan; June Pride Month activities; Volunteer Week celebration lunch; the upcoming Hub AGM as well as information about the recent very successful Helensburgh Book Festival.  Gill Simpson highlighted 2 upcoming events at the Hub and will share details with Partners for distribution to their networks.

Decision

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

ACTION – Gill Simpson to send information to Group admin for distribution.

(Reference: Report by Helensburgh Community Hub, submitted)

Presentation from Manager, Visiting Friends

The Group gave consideration to a presentation by Jayne Burnett, Visiting Friends.  Jayne’s presentation highlighted the benefits of social connections on physical and mental health, factors shaping social connection through the Social Ecological Model, benefits of 1:1 befriending over groups, the impact of covid, the misconception that loneliness is an ‘old people’ issue, and future planning for the service.

Allan Comrie asked about the impact of working from home on loneliness and Jayne advised that she would contact Allan and provide information on this.

Decision

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

ACTION – Group admin to distribute Jayne’s presentation to the Group. Jayne to provide Allan Comrie with information on the impact of working from home on loneliness.

(Reference: Presentation by Jayne Burnett, Visiting Friends, submitted)

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

Countryside Trust

Consideration was given to a report by Climate Change Project Manager, Argyll and the Isles Countryside Trust.

Andy MacPherson provided a recap on the remit of the project, noting that the strategy and outline plan had been approved at the Community Planning Partnership Management Committee meeting held on 16 April.  He highlighted the 6 priority areas and the importance of resilience building above all priorities.  The presentation included details of action taken so far, a request to the CPP Management Committee to reallocate unspent funding at their meeting on for the 6 June 2025, and details of the project timeline and next steps.

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, submitted)

There were no verbal updates provided under this item.

Report by Partnerships Lead, Argyll and Bute Council

Consideration was given to an update from the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee.  John McLuckie spoke to the report, highlighting from the Argyll and Bute Outcomes and Improvements Plan a number of actions for the CPP to take forward, including working with Area Community Planning Groups, updating the CPP Welcome Pack and promoting the CPP Podcast.  John noted that a Community Wealth Building Bill was published in March and is currently moving through the legislative process, with the CPP having established a Steering Group to draft a response to the Bill.

Decision

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

(Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership, submitted)

Report by the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group

Community Wealth Building Short Term Working Group

Consideration was given to a 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. The report highlighted the STWG activity from February to May which included learning from other parts of Argyll and Bute and learning about Community Benefits.

Decision

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

(Reference: Report from the Area Community Planning Group Community Wealth Building Short-Term Working Group, submitted)

The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 19 August 2025

It was noted that the next meeting would be held on Tuesday 19 August 2025.

The Chair advised that as she had moved out of the Helensburgh area lately it was no longer appropriate for her to remain on the Community Council and as Chair of the ACPG and therefore advised that she was formally resigning. She thanked the Group for all the support they had given to her in her time as Chair and wished them well for the future.

The Group thanked Sarah for her contribution as Chair and gave her a round of applause.