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PRESENT

Mr Donald Maclean (Chairman)

  
 

Mr Archie K Campbell (Vice-Chairman)

Mr Donald J Macsween

 

Mr Malcolm J Macleod

Mr Donald Macdonald

 

Mr Roderick Morrison

Mr James L Macarthur

 

Mr Alexander A Macdonald

Mrs Mary Bremner

 

Mr Roderick J Murray

Mr Ronald J Mackinnon

 

Mr Norman L Macdonald

Mr Donald Manford

   

CONSTITUTION

   

It was agreed to suspend Paragraph 10(f) of the Scheme of Administration to enable the appointment of a Chairman and Vice-Chairman for a period which was different than 12 months.

Appointment of Chairman

102

The Democratic Services Manager chaired the Meeting and called for nominations for Chairman of the Committee for the period to May 2003.

Mr Alexander A Macdonald, seconded by Mr Donald Macdonald, moved the election of Mr Donald Maclean.

There being no further nominations, the Democratic Services Manager declared Mr Donald Maclean duly elected as Chairman of the Committee until the end of the current term of the Comhairle, expected to be in May 2003, or the remaining life of the Committee, whichever is shorter, and subject to any changes arising from the introduction of any new Committee structures.

Appointment of Vice-Chairman

103

The Chairman called for nominations for Vice-Chairman of the Committee for the period to May 2003.

Mr James L Macarthur, seconded by Mr Roderick J Murray moved the election of Mr Archie K Campbell.

There being no further nominations, the Chairman declared Mr Archie K Campbell duly elected as Vice-Chairman of the Committee until the end of the current term of the Comhairle, expected to be in May 2003, or for the remaining life of the Committee, whichever is shorter, and subject to any changes arising from the introduction of any new Committee structures.

   

MINUTES

Development Services

104

The Minute of Meeting of 30 May 2001 was approved.

Development Services

105

The Minute of Meeting of 19 June 2001 was approved.

Gaelic Development Sub-Committee

106

The Minute of Meeting of the Gaelic Development Sub-Committee of 31 May 2001 was noted and the recommendations contained therein recommended for approval insofar as the Committee's interests was concerned.

Crofting Joint Consultative Committee: 17 August 2001

107

It was agreed to recommend approval of the recommendations contained in the Report of the Meeting of the Crofting Joint Consultative Committee of 17 August 2001, with the exception of Item 6.

Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee: 24 August 2001

108*

It was agreed to recommend approval of the recommendations contained in the Report of the Meeting of the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee of 24 August 2001, with the exception of Item 5.

Mr Alexander A Macdonald, seconded by Mr Donald Macdonald, moved that the Comhairle should support a ban on fishing for sand eels in the waters around the Western Isles and make representations to that effect to the Scottish Executive.

Mr Norman L Macdonald, seconded by Mr Donald Manford, moved as an amendment that the Comhairle should not support a ban on fishing for sand eels in the waters around the Western Isles.

On the matter had being put to the vote, the amendment received the majority of votes cast and it was agreed to recommend accordingly.

   

FINANCE

Quarterly Forecast Revenue Out-turn

109

The Principal Administrator sought and obtained the Chairman's permission to withdraw this item.

Carry-Forward of Revenue Budgets 2000/2001

110*

The Director of Finance submitted a Report referring to the Council policy which allowed the carry forward of 2% of any underspend and 1% of any overspend in Departments' controllable budgets. Appended to the Report was:

(1) details of the out-turn position of each of Heads of Service which showed a net carry forward of £411,000 from 2000/2001, and;

(2) details of how Departments proposed to apply or achieve savings to meet these "carry forwards" in the current year.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:

(1) approve the carry forward of Revenue Budgets as detailed in Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director of Finance; and

(2) approve the application of "carry forwards" as detailed in Appendix 2 of the Report by the Director of Finance.

1% Savings on Revenue Budgets

111*

With reference to Item 61 of the Minute of Meeting of the Policy and Finance Committee of 19 June 2001, the Director of Finance submitted a Report appending details of savings which it was proposed to implement in order to achieve savings of up to 1% within controllable budgets.

It was stated in the Report that a 1% saving across all controllable budgets equated to a total of £515,000.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle approve the 1% savings on Revenue Budgets as detailed in Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director of Finance.

Capital Monitoring and Strategy

112

The Principal Administrator sought and obtained the Chairman's permission to withdraw this item.

   

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Business Plan Summary

113

There was submitted Business Plan Summaries prepared by each Heads of Service.

It was agreed to note the Business Plan Summaries as submitted, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned.

   

BUILDINGS

(Repairs and Maintenance) Revenue Programme 2001/2002

114*

The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report giving details of the expenditure incurred in the repair and maintenance of properties held on the Development Services account during the period 1 April - 30 June 2001.

It was indicated in the Report that £6,419.87 (27%) of the Repairs and Maintenance Budget for Development Services properties had been spent or committed as at 30 June 2001.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Report concerning the Repairs and Maintenance Revenue Programme 2001/2002, Quarterly Expenditure Report to 30 June 2001 be noted, and;

(2) to request that further Reports on the Repairs and Maintenance of properties held on the Development Services Account would continue to be placed before the Committee by the Director of Technical Services at quarterly intervals.

It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7(A) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the Meeting during consideration of the following item on the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.

Unit 1, Cnoc na Feille, Benbecula

115*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning a request from Mr Paul Welch, T/A Re-Cyc, for the termination of his lease of Unit 1, Cnoc-na-Feille, Benbecula.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:

(1) agree to the request by Paul Welch, T/A Re-Cyc to vacate Unit 1, Cnoc na Feille, Benbecula and that the current lease be terminated at no penalty to the occupant, on the condition that the property was left in at least as good a condition as it was when it was first occupied by Mr Welch, and

(2) agree to authorise the Director for Sustainable Communities to advertise Unit 1, Cnoc na Feille, Benbecula for lease.

Arnish Point - Strategic Industrial Site

116*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report appending the recommendations from a study undertaken by ERM Consultants who had been retained by the Stornoway Trust, Western Isles Enterprise and the Comhairle, to advise on the steps which could be taken to rejuvenate the Arnish Point Strategic Industrial Site which had recently been vacated by Lewis Offshore Ltd.

A summary of the Consultant's findings were given in the Report and these included:

(1) that the site was a strategic asset which needed to be managed to maximise its potential;

(2) the immediate objective of securing fish related business;

   

(3) to put in place a marketing strategy to secure large investors;

(4) to prepare a Development Brief for the site and its surroundings to establish the principles of redevelopment;

(5) to develop a Facilities Plan for the upgrading of the infrastructure;

(6) the need to prepare an Economic Impact Report;

(7) the need to prepare a Marketing Strategy, and

(8) the need to commence active marking of the site.

The Report referred to the potential conflict between short and long term use of the site and emphasised that whilst the Consultants had identified many of the key issues, the formulation of an appropriate response to these issues had been left to the Stornoway Trust, Western Isles Enterprise and the Comhairle. It was stated in the Report that Officers would undertake further discussions with appropriate outside organisations, prior to the submission of further Reports on this matter to the Comhairle.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:

(1) accept the recommendations of the ERM Consultant's Report concerning the Arnish Point, Strategic Industrial Site, Isle of Lewis;

(2) request the Director for Sustainable Communities to submit further Reports to the Development Services Committee on actions to be taken in relation to the future development of the Arnish Point Strategic Industrial Site, Isle of Lewis; and

(3) authorise the Director for Sustainable Communities to take all appropriate steps to ensure that the possibility of utilising part of the Arnish Point Strategic Industrial Site to build fishing boats was discussed with all relevant outside organisations and with the appropriate Government Ministers.

Arising out of consideration of the above item, it was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be requested to prepare a Report concerning interest in the site at the Creed Enterprise Park for inclusion in the Information Bulletin.

Community Employment Initiative

117*

With reference to Item 66 of the Minute of Meeting of 30 May 2001, the Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report intimating that the Highlands & Islands Partnership Programme, under the European Social Fund, had approved additional funding in the sum of £40,000 towards the Comhairle's Community Employment Initiative.

It was stated in the Report that this additional funding, coupled with savings made through reduced placement numbers, meant that the additional funding would secure the Initiative until 31 December 2001. It was further intimated that if the Comhairle wished to continue with the Employment Initiative until 31 March 2002, an additional £35,000 would be required.

The Report emphasised the benefits associated with continued support of the Community Employment Initiative, including:

(1) continued public commitment shown to the long-term unemployed by the Comhairle;

(2) the provision of an employment and training programme to meet the needs of specific individuals and the needs of employers in the Western Isles;

(3) assistance to participants in removing barriers to work through access to an imaginative and more effective way of helping them into work.; and

   

(4) the benefit to the long-term unemployed and socially excluded and the creation of sustainable job opportunities.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:

(1) approve the additional financial support of £35,000 in order for the existing Community Employment Initiative to continue until the end of the financial year 2001/2002, this additional support being funded from the growth element of the Development Services Committee budget;

(2) note that in order to support the Initiative at its present level after March 2002, an additional amount £190,000 would be required; and

(3) note that the Director for Sustainable Communities is exploring alternative sources of funding including the possibility of operating the service through an independent charitable company.

World Festival for Island Cultures

118*

The Chairman submitted a Report concerning the involvement of a group from the Western Isles in the World Festival for Island Cultures which had been held in Jeju, South Korea, between 19 May and 17 June 2001. Details of the part played by the Western Isles Group in the Festival were given in the Report and it was emphasised that as well as providing a Forum for the Western Isles Group to display a wide range of Gaelic music and traditional dancing, the Festival had afforded an opportunity to promote the economy of the Islands at a specially constructed Western Isles trade stand.

The Report intimated that Mr Choi-H-Ark, whose main task was to identify potential investment opportunities for South Korean organisations in the UK, had been briefed on the economic opportunities available in the Western Isles, particularly in relation to Harris Tweed and the IT industry. The Report suggested that it would be appropriate to undertake pre-planning in the event that a Western Isles Group would be invited to attend the World Festival for Island Cultures in 2003, so as to ensure that every effort was made to build on the achievements of the Western Isles Group's participation in Jeju in the Summer of 2001.

The Report concluded that there were significant benefits from using the cultural arts as a means to market a variety of goods and services, as well as highlighting economic development opportunities.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be requested to undertake the preparatory work associated with the Western Isles Group attending "Jeju 2003", on the basis detailed in the Report by Donald MacLean, Chairman, Development Services Committee.

Stornoway Airport Gateway Project

119*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report identifying the potential for developing the new Stornoway Airport Terminal as a Western Isles Gateway. It was intimated that the Stornoway Airport Consultative Committee had established a Working Group with representatives from the Comhairle, Highlands & Islands Airports Ltd, Western Isles Enterprise, Western Isles Tourist Board, Scottish Natural Heritage and Lews Castle College and that the Working Group and the Consultative Committee had considered proposals by an interior design and communications company (Skakel & Skakel Ltd), who had addressed the following three main areas:

(1) the interior design of the public areas

(2) landscaping and external elements; and

(3) the provision of new generic information on the Western Isles.

   

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted revised information on the funding of the Stornoway Airport Gateway Project which was now estimated to cost £260,000 with anticipated contributions being as follows:

(1) Highlands & Islands Airport Ltd £70,000

(2) Western Isles Enterprise £83,000

(3) Scottish Natural Heritage £20,000

(4) Historic Scotland £5,000

(5) CNAG £3,000

(6) University of the Highlands & Islands £2,000

(7) Western Isles Tourist Board Marketing £2,000

(8) Comhairle nan Eilean Siar £75,000

    Total £260,000

The Chairman seconded by the Vice-Chaiman moved that:

(1) the Comhairle agree, in principle, to provide parnership funding of up to £75,000 for the Stornoway Gateway Project;

(2) funding of £40,000 be allocated from the additional financial resources from Development Services in 2001/2002 in order to allow the project to proceed;

(3) up to £35,000 be allocated from the additional financial resources for Development Services in 2002/2003, subject to approval within the budgetary process and approval by the Comhairle of the scope and content of the generic marketing proposals for the Gateway Project.

Mr Roderick J Murray, seconded by Mr Alexander A Macdonald, moved as an amendment that the Comhairle do not provide funding for the Stornoway Gateway Project.

On the matter being put to the vote the amendment received the majority of the votes cast and it was agreed to recommend accordingly.

   

Arising out of consideration of the above item it was agreed to recommend that Mr Norman L Macdonald, Member for the Goathill Ward, be nominated to serve on the Stornoway Airport Consultative Committee.

Western Isles Tourist Board Additional Funding for 2001/2002

120*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning funding for the Western Isles Tourist Board. It was indicated in the Report that the Western Isles Tourist Board generated 52% of its total core income itself, compared to the national average for Tourist Boards of 38% and that the Comhairle's funding of the Board was 21%, compared with the average of Scottish Council's of 33%. It was stated in the report that the Western Isles Tourist Board had informed the Comhairle that its projected shortfall for the current financial year was £20,000. The report highlighted the importance of the tourism industry to the economy of the Western Isles. It was further intimated that there was a likelihood that the number of area Tourist Boards in Scotland would be reduced from the present 14 to 4 or 5 and that this could result in the Western Isles being incorporated into a larger mainland board. The Report emphasised that if the marketing of the Western Isles was to be undertaken successfully then this required a properly funded local area Tourist Board which was able to compete with similar organisations.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:

(1) agree to grant aid the Western Isles Tourist Board in the sum of £20,000 from the additional funds allocated to the European Development Services Budget for 2001/2002; and

(2) should authorise Officers of the Comhairle to continue discussions with the Western Isles Tourist Board about levels of funding for future years, including investigating the possibility of taking on the operating costs of the five Tourist Information centres, thereby allowing core funding to be used mainly for marketing the Western Isles.

   

It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7(A) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the Meeting during consideration of the following item on the grounds that exempt information relating to the amount of any expenditure proposed to be incurred by the Comhairle under any particular Contract for the acquisition of property or the supply of goods or services, would be disclosed.

Painterwork at Stornoway Abattoir

121*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a report concerning steelwork at Stornoway Abattoir.

   

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Comhairle homologate all the actions taken by the Director for Sustainable Communities in respect of the repainting of steelwork and essential upgrading of the Stornoway Abattoir, including those actions not in accordance with Contract Regulations; and

(2) the finance be sourced from the Department for Sustainable Communities budget for property maintenance and post vacancy savings within the Department.

   

It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7(A) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the Meeting during consideration of the following two items on the grounds that:

(a) information relating to any particular applicant, or the recipient or former recipient of, any financial assistance provided by the Comhairle, and any instruction of Counsel and any opinion of Counsel (whether or not in connection with any proceedings) and any advice received, information obtained, or action to be taken in connection with any legal proceedings by or against the Comhairle; or

(b) the determination of any matter affecting the Comhairle

    (whether, in either case, proceedings had been commenced or were in contemplation)

    would be disclosed.

Meeting with Henry Sneddon, Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department

122

The Chairman invited Mr Henry Sneddon, Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department to address the Committee on Western Isles Slaughterhouses.

Members of the Committee were afforded an opportunity to ask questions of Mr Sneddon.

The Chairman thanked Mr Sneddon for his presentation.

Western Isles Slaughterhouses

123*

The Chairman ruled that a material change of circumstances had occurred since the consideration of the following items by the Comhairle at its meeting on 20 February 2001 and that it was not necessary to suspend Standing Order 66.

   

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a report concerning the situation regarding assistance to the Western Isles' 4 Slaughterhouses.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Comhairle explores possible Rescue and Restructuring Aid under the terms of Community Guidelines on State Aid for Rescuing and Restructuring Firms in Difficulty (1999/C 288/02), in conjunction with the Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department and slaughterhouse operators in the Western Isles; and

(2) the Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department be not asked to submit a formal State Aid Notification to the European Commission on financial assistance by the Comhairle for local slaughterhouse operations in the Western Isles, such notification to refer also to loans and loan guarantees previously undertaken by the Comhairle in respect of Lewis and Harris Auction Marts Ltd.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Programme and Progress Fishery Piers

124

The Director of Technical Services submitted the Programme and Progress Report for Fishery Piers.

It was agreed to note the Report.

Review of the Common Fisheries Policy

125*

The Director for Sustainable communities submitted a report giving information in connection with the review of the Common Fisheries Policy. Appended to the report were extracts from the Green Paper on the future of the Common Fisheries which set out proposals and options for change. The report stated that notwithstanding the view held by a wide number of Organisations that the Common Fisheries Policy had failed to achieve the central objective of conserving fish stocks, it was not anticipated that radical changes would be made to the policy. The Report further detailed a response to the Green Paper on the future of the Common Fisheries which had been drafted in consultation with the Western Isles Fisherman's Association and it was further intimated that the response took account of the proceedings of a Seminar on the Common Fisheries Policy held in Shetland in May 2001, a CPMR held in June 2001 and a Video-Conference held with Scottish MEP's on 11 July 2001.

   

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) comments appended to the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities on the Review of the Common Fisheries Policy be submitted to the European Commission, and;

(2) the Comhairle, in conjunction with representatives of the Western Isles fishing industry, pursue all relevant opportunities to promote the Western Isles position and the future of the Common Fisheries Policy.

   

The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Committee.

Strategy for the Retention and Development of the Western Isles Fishing Fleet

126*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a report outlining a strategy aimed at retaining and developing the Western Isles Fishing Fleet. It was intimated that the underlying justifications for such a strategy included:

(1) the long term economic dependence of the local economy on fisheries;

(2) the limited scope for economic diversification;

(3) the lack of internally generated private investment;

(4) the current constraints on new young entrants;

(5) the need to promote sustainable fishing practices; and

(6) the need to develop and improve marketing structures.

It was intimated in the Report that the Western Isles Fishing Fleet had experienced a reduction in the 10 metre-15 metre category since 1989 and that almost 70% of the over 10 metre fleet was over 20 years old. The Report gave background information in relation to fishing entitlements and intimated that Highlands and Islands Enterprise was examining the principle of fishing entitlement being acquired by local or community based groups with the aid of public funding, on the basis that quotas would be effectively leased to fishermen but would be ring-fenced to the relevant area.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle should:

(1) argue strongly for the exclusion of the Western Isles and other areas highly dependent on fisheries from any proposal to phase out public sector funding for fishing vessels;

(2) support the introduction of a selective modernisation and renewal programme applicable to vessels up to 15m within the Highlands & Islands Enterprise area;

(3) propose that any future decommissioning scheme should target stocks under most pressure - currently white fish; and

(4) authorise the Director for Sustainable Communities to investigate with Highlands & Islands Enterprise, Scottish Executive Environment Rural Affairs Department and the Western Isles Fishermen's Association, the financial and other implications of establishing a structure aimed at acquiring fishing entitlement for leasing back to fishermen in the regional (Highlands & Islands Enterprise) or local (Western Isles) area.

Marine Fuel Working Group

127*

With reference to Item 148 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 August 1999, the Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report proposing the establishment of a Marine Fuel Working Group, comprising Members and Officers of the Comhairle and representatives of other marine and fisheries interests in the Western Isles to consider the practical implications of the powers which the Comhairle was seeking in relation to marine fuel supply.

   

It was stated in the Report that the Comhairle was promoting a Harbour Revision Order, which would, inter alia, enable the Comhairle to supply fuel to vessels using its Harbour Areas. It was further stated that there was a provision within the Draft Order which would allow the Comhairle to provide supplies, including fuel, to such vessels at any other place in the Western Isles with the consent of the occupier of the land and that this could include Stornoway Harbour.

The Report referred to the considerable investment made by the Comhairle in infrastructure, tanks, pumps and computer software, to allow a fuel-bunkering network to be established at 11 Comhairle owned piers.

It was further proposed that the Working Group should comprise three Members, relevant officers of the Comhairle and representatives of the following organisations namely, Western Isles Enterprise, Western Isles Fishermen's Association, Stornoway Pier and Harbour Commission and Stornoway Fishermen's Co-operative, with the remit of the Working Group being to consider:

(1) all aspects of the Comhairle's proposed fuel bunkering network and appropriate operational arrangements;

(2) the wider issues of marine fuel supply in the Western Isles and initiatives aimed at reducing fuel costs at ports and harbours throughout the Western Isles.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) a Marine Fuel Working Group be established with a membership and remit as outlined in the Report;

(2) the Comhairle nominate the following Members to serve on the Marine Fuel Working Group, namely, Mr Alexander A MacDonald, Mr Donald MacDonald, Mr Donald Manford; and

(3) the conclusions of the Working Group be reported to the Committee.

It was further agreed to recommend that the remit of the Marine Fuel Working Group should include undertaking discussions with existing oil suppliers and that Officer representation on the Group be determined by the Chief Executive.

Feasibility of a Comprehensive Shellfish Regulating Order for the Western Isles

128*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report referring to a recent study undertaken in relation to the investigation of the feasibility of establishing a company to manage a comprehensive Shellfish Regulating Order, where `comprehensive' referred to all shellfish targeted commercially within the Western Isles area.

   

It was intimated in the Report that the Western Isles Inshore Shellfisheries Management Organisation Ltd was currently being established to manage a razorfish and cockle Regulating Order and that this Regulating Order could potentially manage all of the Western Isles inshore shellfish fisheries. It was suggested in the Report that the Comhairle should encourage the Company to consider other species, other representation and co-operative action between Regulating Order and shellfish licensing.

The Report emphasised the importance of shellfish fishing to the Western Isles economy and stated that the actual landing value of the sector may be higher than the published figure of £9m. The Report concluded that significant progress had been made within the last year towards improving the management of shellfish around the Western Isles, both at a local and national level and that the formation of the Western Isles Inshore Shellfisheries Management Organisation Ltd was an essential element to achieve direct local involvement in shellfish management.

The Chairman reported that he had nominated Mr James L Macarthur, Member for the Benbecula North Ward, to serve on the Western Isles Inshore Shellfisheries Organisation Ltd.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle encourage the Western Isles Inshore Shellfisheries Management Organisation Ltd to consider;

(1) the inclusion of other shellfish species in the Regulating Order;

(2) enlisting additional Board Members to represent the aquaculture and shellfish buying and processing sectors; and

(3) the opportunities which may arise from co-ordination between the proposed UK Shellfish Licensing Scheme and the comprehensive Regulating Order.

Review of Regulations Governing Aquaculture

129*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report intimating that the Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department (SEERAD) was undertaking a review of the Regulations Governing Aquaculture in Scotland. It was stated that the Department had issued a Consultation Paper, setting out options for change under the following headings:

(1) the case for a single regulatory body or a single application process;

(2) SEPA consent provisions;

(3) sea lice control;

(4) flexibility for new species;

(5) fish health;

(6) escapes of farmed fish;

(7) carrying capacity of coastal waters for fish farming; and

(8) an Executive strategy for aquaculture

It was stated in the Report that some of the Executive's proposals would have direct implications for the Comhairle, in particular the idea of Area Advisory Committees as outlined in Paragraph 15 of the Consultation Paper.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to respond to the Scottish Executive Environment Rural Affairs Department's Consultation Paper on the Review of Regulations Governing Aquaculture in Scotland, taking account of the views of the Committee.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Seafood from the Western Isles - Storage and Distribution

130*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report referring to the study jointly commissioned by the Comhairle and Western Isles Enterprise to identify the storage and distribution requirements of the Western Isles seafood sector. An executive summary of the study undertaken by Nautilus Consultants was appended to the Report and it was stated that the scope of the study had been widened to embrace the more general storage, distribution and logistical issues in the seafood sector, as well as identifying the need for cold storage facilities at Western Isles Airports.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:

(1) note the findings of the Report undertaken by Nautilas Consultants concerning seafood from the Western Isles - Storage and Distribution issues;

(2) continues to work with other bodies, agencies and companies to realign ferry services and timings particularly in Uist and Barra with the market requirements in the seafood sector; and

(3) should facilitate improvements and marketing structures in live storage infrastructure throughout the Western Isles.

It was further agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities should take such action, as he may deem appropriate, to ensure that the issue of storage facilities at Stornoway Airport was re-examined.

Meeting with the Representatives of Scottish Natural Heritage: Western Isles Natural Heritage Zone

131

The Chairman welcomed Mr Mark Wrightham, Natural Heritage Zone's Project Team, Scottish Natural Heritage and Joanne Ferguson, Scottish Natural Heritage, to give a presentation to the Committee on the Western Isles Natural Heritage Zone.

At the conclusion of the Presentation, an opportunity was afforded to Members to ask questions of Mr Wrightham and Joanne Ferguson.

The Chairman thanked Mr Wrighthan and Joanne Ferguson for their Presentation.

Western Isles Natural Heritage Zone: Consultation on Draft Prospectus (DS 20.33)

132*

With reference to Item 80 of the Minute of Meeting of 30 May 2001, the Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report indicating that Scottish Natural Heritage had produced a draft document entitled "The Natural Heritage of the Western Isles" which was based on the concept of the area as a Natural Heritage Zone. It was stated in the Report that the document set out a vision for the natural heritage of the Western Isles for the next 25 years, based on the sustainable use of natural resources. The proposed draft response to the consultation paper issued by Scottish Natural Heritage was appended to the Report.

The Report concluded that the proposed response to Scottish Natural Heritage emphasised the importance of land managers, crofters, fishing and aquaculture interests in achieving the objectives highlighted in the Consultation Paper. It was further stated that the proposed response recommended that Scottish Natural Heritage should recognise issues such as population decline, which could be a key factor in influencing the future management of the natural heritage.

It was agreed to recommend that Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities should form the basis of the Comhairle's response to the Scottish Natural Heritage Consultation Paper on the draft document entitled "The Natural Heritage of the Western Isles", subject to any additional views of the Committee.

Checking for Change - Consultation by the Scottish Executive and Appropriate Indicators of Sustainable Development

133*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report intimating that the Scottish Executive had invited comments on a Consultation Paper entitled "Checking for Change" which discussed the development of Indicators of Sustainable Development, focusing on the priorities of resource use, energy and travel.

It was stated that the Comhairle's "Quality of Life, Local Agenda 21" Officer Group had considered a response to the Scottish Executive's Consultation Paper and this was set out at Para 7.1 of the Report. It was emphasised that the proposed response would put forward the proposal that the Scottish Executive should not develop a further set of indicators but rather adopt an existing UK set and adapt them to reflect Scottish circumstances.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle endorse the views detailed in Para 7.1 of the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities for submission to the Scottish Executive.

Wildness in Scotland's Countryside - Scottish Natural Heritage Draft Policy Paper

134*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning a draft policy paper produced by Scottish Natural Heritage on Wildness in Scotland's Countryside. A draft response to the Consultation Paper was set out in the Report and it was indicated that the draft response stated that the Comhairle recognised the value of wild and natural areas and agreed that they should be valued and appropriately safeguarded on the basis that this should be done in ways that met local social and economic needs, particularly where this maximised any local sustainable economic potential.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle delegates to the Director for Sustainable Communities, in consultation with the Chairman, authority to make a response to Scottish Natural Heritage based on the comments set out in Para 6.2-6.6 in the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities taking into account the views of the Committee.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Hebridean Mink Project

135*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report indicating that the Hebridean Mink Project had secured 50% funding from the European Union LIFE Nature Fund towards the £1.65m cost of the Hebridean Mink Project, on the basis that the Comhairle would contribute up to £100,000 over a five year period.

It was stated in the Report that as well as impacting on crofting and sporting activities and fish farming, mink also posed a particular threat to the internationally important bird populations in the Uists that were afforded protection under the European Wild Birds Directive. The Report gave details of the proposed operation of the Hebridean Mink Project and stated that at least eleven people would be employed on the Project, working primarily on Benbecula, North Uist and South Harris.

It was further stated in the Report that a Project Management Team, comprising a Project Manager, representatives from Scottish Natural Heritage and the Central Science Laboratory would have responsibility for major operational aspects of the Project, whilst it was proposed to establish a Project Advisory Group which would have overall responsibility for the delivery of the Project. It was further intimated that in addition to the Project Advisory Group, it was proposed to establish a Community Liaison Forum which would comprise representatives of other relevant community interests, e.g. land owners, crofting communities, fish farming and fishing, and animal welfare organisations.

   

It was recommended in the Report that the Comhairle:

(1) be represented on the Hebridean Mink Project Advisory Group by one elected member and the Director for Sustainable Communities or his nominee;

(2) nominate a Member to serve on the Project Advisory Group and vote as necessary, in consultation with the Director for Sustainable Communities;

(3) determine the level of representation on the Community Liaison Forum; and

(4) note that it may be necessary to make an additional funding contribution at a future date to make up for any shortfall in the Hebridean Mink Project funding.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:

(1) be represented on the Hebridean Mink Advisory Group by one Elected Member and the Director for Sustainable Communities, or his nominee;

(2) should be represented on the Hebridean Mink Advisory Group by Mr Archie K Campbell at Member level, on the basis that Mr Campbell would vote as necessary in consultation with the Director for Sustainable Communities;

(3) authorise the Director for Sustainable Communities, in consultation with the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, to determine the level of representation on the Community Liaison Forum; and

(4) note that it may be necessary to make an additional funding contribution at a future date to make up for any shortfall in project funding.

Arising out of consideration of the above Item it was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities:

(1) be authorised to make representations to Government Ministers and other appropriate outside organisations and to take any such other action as he may deem appropriate to ensure that a satisfactory solution was found to the problems associated with hedgehogs in the Western Isles; and

   

(2) be authorised to make representations to Government Ministers and other appropriate outside organisations and to take any such other action as he may deem appropriate with a view to ensuring that the "mink problem" and "hedgehog problem" were tackled on a Western Isles basis, as soon as possible.

Review of Woodland Grant Scheme and Farm Woodland Premium Scheme in Scotland

136*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report indicating that the Scottish Executive was undertaking a Review of the Woodland Grant Scheme and the Farm Woodland Premium Scheme. The background to the consultation exercise being undertaken by the Executive was given in the Report which concluded that the Crofter Forestry Scheme had been of enormous benefit to many areas in the Western Isles, although there were a number of difficulties with the scheme, particularly for the most disadvantaged areas.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities, in consultation with the Chairman, be authorised to respond to the Scottish Executive Consultation Paper on the Review of the Woodland Grant Scheme and Farm Woodland Premium Scheme, taking account of the views of the Committee.

   

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Erect Church, North Dell, Ness, Isle of Lewis

DS21.01

137*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission to develop a new church on land at Dell Farm, North Dell, Ness, Isle of Lewis. The Report gave background information commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission to develop a new church on land at Dell Farm, North Dell, Ness, Isle of Lewis, subject to the conditions detailed at Appendix 1 of the Report.

Driver Training/Karting Facility at Lochs Road, Isle of Lewis

DS21.01

138*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for permanent consent for use of land and associated track as a driver training/karting facility and an extension to the track for the siting of two portable units on land at Lochs Road, Isle of Lewis.

It was intimated in the Report that as a Development Control Planning Officer was an active member of the Car Club, the application had been referred to the Committee for consideration. The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Schedule of Proposed Conditions relating to the abovementioned development.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission for use of land and associated track as a Driver Training/Karting Facility and an extension to the track for the siting of two portable units on land at Lochs Road, Isle of Lewis, subject to the Schedule of Proposed Conditions submitted by the Director for Sustainable Communities.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Erect Shed, 23 Gravir, South Lochs

DS21.01

139*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the erection of a shed at 23 Gravir, South Lochs, Isle of Lewis. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission for the erection of a shed at 23 Gravir, South Lochs, Isle of Lewis, subject to the conditions shown at Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities and subject to the Director for Sustainable Communities being authorised to include a condition requiring the applicant to ensure that the site was maintained in a clean and safe condition.

Thatched Cottage Resource Centre at Rushgarry, Berneray

DS21.01

140*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for change of use from cottage to Community Resource Centre, restoration of derelict house and formation of new road access at Rushgarry, Berneray. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission for change of use from cottage to Community Resource Centre, restoration of derelict house and formation of new road access at Rushgarry, Berneray, subject to the conditions shown at Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities.

New Hall, Church of Scotland, Clachan, North Uist

DS21.01

141*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the demolition of the existing church hall and erection of a new hall at the Church of Scotland, Clachan, North Uist. It was intimated in the Report that as the Principal Planning Officer (Development Control) was on the Congregational Board of Clachan Church of Scotland, the application had been referred to the Committee for consideration.

It was further intimated that the Planning Application as submitted was in conformity with planning legislation and would otherwise have been approved.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission for the demolition of the existing church hall, erection of a new hall at the Church of Scotland, Clachan, North Uist, subject to the conditions shown at Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Shellfish Storage at Bridgend, Benbecula

DS21.01

142*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for change of use of part of the building at Bridgend, Benbecula from haulage to shellfish storage. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received.

It was further intimated that as the applicant was the spouse of a Clerk/Typist in the Sustainable Communities Department, the matter had also been referred to the Committee for consideration.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission for the change of use of part of the building at Bridgend, Creagorry, Benbecula from haulage to shellfish storage, subject to the conditions detailed at Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

House with Beauty Salon at 97 Buailedubh, South Uist

DS21.01

143*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for erection of a house with beauty salon at 97 Buailedubh, South Uist. It was intimated in the Report that as the applicant was the daughter of a Development Control Clerical Assistant within the Department for Sustainable Communities, the matter had been referred to the Committee for determination.

It was further intimated that the planning application as submitted was in conformity with planning legislation and would otherwise have been approved

   

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission for the erection of a house with beauty salon at 97 Buailedubh, South Uist subject to the conditions shown at Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities.

   

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Orange Mast at Ardnamonie, South Uist (DS 21.01)

144*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report giving background information in relation to the erection of a telecommunications mast by Orange at Ardnamonie, South Uist. The Report stated that the mast, including the base, ranged from 219mm to 533mm over the permitted 15m height. The Report further referred to the guidance contained within NPPG 19, which stated that:

"sensitive siting and design can play a part in allaying public concerns. Paragraph 61 therefore asks operators to provide with their application evidence that consideration has been given to siting and design options, and this may be a material consideration. It is expected that operators will make all reasonable efforts to select sites which minimise public concerns".

It was further intimated that the only efforts which had been made to select sites which minimised public concerns appeared to have been made by the local community with the support of Mrs Mairi Bremner, Member for the Eochar Ward, the Director for Sustainable Communities and the local Estate Factor.

The Report concluded that enforcement action could be justified as:

(1) the development required planning permission

(2) there was strong local opposition, and

(3) more suitable sites were available that were away from residential areas and would give better coverage and would be "likely to minimise public concerns".

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to take enforcement action to secure the removal of the Orange telecommunications mast and associated development at Ardnamonie, South Uist.

Alter and Extend House at East Kilbride, South Uist

DS21.01

145*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission to alter and extend Tigh na Mara, East Kilbride, South Uist. The Report gave background information and commented on the application.

   

It was recommended in the Report that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to refuse planning permission for alterations and an extension to Tigh na Mara, East Kilbride, South Uist for the following reasons:

(1) the proposed extension would appear domineering and out of place on a site which is on open landscape and close to the road. Accordingly, it would be detrimental to the visual amenities of the area to an unacceptable degree, especially as the site is within a National Scenic Area; and

   

(2) for the reasons stated above, the proposal would not meet the aspirations of Policy HA10 and HA11 in the Uists and Benbecula Local Plan.

   

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission for alterations and extension at Tigh na Mara, East Kilbride, South Uist, on the basis that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to determine the conditions relating to the proposed development.

   

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Removal of Rock, Castlebay, Isle of Barra

DS21.01

146*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the removal of rock from Main Street, Castlebay, Isle of Barra. The Report gave background information and commented on the application. The Director for Sustainable Communities reported that, following the submission of further submissions in relation to this application, he would now wish to recommend that the planning permission for the removal of rock from Main Street, Castlebay, Isle of Barra be granted, subject to the conditions detailed in the Supplementary Report placed before the Committee.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to grant planning permission for the removal of rock from Main Street, Castlebay, Isle of Barra, subject to the conditions detailed in the Supplementary Report by the Director for Sustainable Communities.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

   

CONFERENCES AND COURSES

Conference - Economic Development Association Scotland

147*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report giving information on the Economic Development Association (Scotland) Conference.

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle be represented at the Economic Development Association (Scotland) Conference in October 2001 by the Chairman or his nominee.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Renewable Energy - Forthcoming Events

148*

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report giving information on a range of conferences planned in the Renewable Energy sector, including:

(1) renewable energy in maritime Island climates, Belfast 10-11 September

(2) Windpower on Islands, Gotland, 13-15 September

(3) `Turning things Around' UK Wind Industry Showcase, Brighton, 16-18 October

(4) Electrical Energy Storage and the integration of new and renewable Energy Sources, Chester, 25-27 October

(5) European and Local Energy Agencies, Brussels, 6 November

   

The Report concluded that the Windpower on Islands Conference to be held in Gotland was particularly relevant to the current information and development needs to develop issues in the Western Isles.

   

It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle be represented by Mr Donald I Nicholson at the "Windpower on Islands" Conference,Gotland, September 13-15, 2001.

The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle

Port Marine Safety Code

149*

The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report indicating that the Comhairle was required to commence implementation of the Port Marine Safety Code. It was indicated that the Code applied to ports of all sizes, irrespective of their resources or levels of traffic and that Harbour Authorities would have to adopt a Safety Management System which would have to be based upon a formal risk assessment of all aspects of a port's activities. It was suggested in the Report that it would be appropriate to engage Antel Business Services Ltd to undertake the implementation of the Port Marine Safety Code.

It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that the Comhairle:

(1) commence the implementation of the Port Marine Safety Code

(2) authorise the Director of Technical Services to engage Antel Business Services Ltd to undertake the formal risk assessments, formulate the action plans and develop the implementation of the safety management system to satisfy the requirements of the Port Marine Safety Code at a cost of £6,800

(3) agree to a daily Consultancy rate of £400 inclusive of travel and accommodation for training requirements.

Reports Outstanding: Progress

PR 33.0.12

150

The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report detailing the Reports Outstanding from decisions of the Committee from 1 May 1994.

It was agreed to note the Report.

   

LOCAL PLANS

   

The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Committee.

Broadbay Local Plan, Public Local Inquiry

DS 24.03

151*

With reference to Item 209 of the Minutes of Meeting of 22 November 2000, the Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report intimating that following a recent judgement in the Court of Session in the petition for judicial review by County Properties Ltd against the Scottish Ministers it would be appropriate for the Comhairle to proceed to appoint a Reporter to conduct the Public Local Inquiry into the Broadbay Local Plan.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to appoint a Reporter to conduct the Public Local Inquiry into the Broadbay Local Plan.

     
     

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