COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Wednesday, 30 August 2000 at 2.00pm

PRESENT	Mr Donald Maclean (Chairman)
	Mr Archibald K Campbell (Vice-Chairman)	Mr Donald Macdonald
	Mr Roderick Morrison	Mr James L Macarthur
	Mr Roderick J Murray	Mrs Mary Bremner
	Mr Donald J Macsween	Mr Ronald J Mackinnon
	Mr Donald M Mackay	Mr Donald Manford
APOLOGIES	Mr Malcolm J Macleod	Mr Norman L Macdonald

Development Services DS09.01	134	MINUTES The Minute of Meeting of 19 June 2000, was approved.
Development Services Sub-Committee DS09.02	135	The Minute of Meeting of the Development Services Sub-Committee of 21 June 2000, was noted.
Gaelic Development Sub-Committee PR03.05	136	The Minute of Meeting of the Gaelic Development Sub-Committee of 23 June 2000, was noted, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned.
Non-Housing Capital Monitoring 1 April 2000 - 30 June 2000 PR110.08	137*	FINANCE The Director of Finance submitted a Report regarding the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the period 2000/2001 to 2002/2003 for all services except the Housing Revenue Account. The Report detailed the approved expenditure and actual and committed expenditure as at 30 June 2000 for each service. It was indicated that the forecast net expenditure in 2000/2001 was £15,465,000, which compared with the initial approved programme of £15,570,000. Details of the forecast out-turn against specific projects were appended to the Report. An outline of variations proposed was set out in the report.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that: (1) the forecast out-turn be approved as the revised approved capital programme for 2000/2001; (2) £168,000 be accelerated into the revised approved programme for 2000/2001 for Education in respect of work on the Crush Hall and west wing at The Nicolson Institute; (3) £37,000 be included in the programme for Safer Routes to School following specific section 94 consent being made available; (4) net expenditure of £34,000 for St Brendan's kitchen improvements be transferred from the conditional list to the capital programme; (5) net expenditure of £105,000 for Dun Eisdean Dementia Unit be transferred from the reserve list of projects to the capital programme on the basis of funding from slippage within the programme; (6) an additional sum of £50,000 be included in the capital programme, funded from slippage, to meet the expected additional costs of the Home Care Information System; (7) the Balivanich Community Regeneration expenditure of £234,000 be included in the capital programme on confirmation of additional consent being awarded; (8) an overspend of £134,000 in respect of rock royalties for the Eriskay Causeway be included in the capital programme in 2001/2002 on the basis of funding from slippage; (9) net expenditure of £35,000 for the Ard ma Ruibh waiting room be transferred from the conditional list of projects to the capital programme; (10) the guarantee for An Lanntair in respect of the arts centre in Stornoway be removed from the capital programme; (11) net expenditure of £250,000 in respect of the Leverburgh Basin and Breakwater be transferred from the conditional list to the capital programme; (12) expenditure of £30,000 in respect of the Tarbert Village improvements be transferred from the conditional list to the capital programme; and (13) the Director of Finance be authorised to seek to obtain £1,000,000 additional section 94 consent in 2000/2001, to be repaid in 2001/2002 or 2002/2003.
First Quarter Revenue Monitoring PR110.08	138	The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing the Income and Revenue Expenditure incurred for the Comhairle's services, including the Housing Revenue Account, for the three months ended 30 June 2000, The Report compared such Income and Expenditure with the Revenue Estimates of Income and Expenditure. It was agreed to note the report.
Repairs and Maintenance Revenue Programme 2000/01 1 April - 30 June 2000 PR110.08	139	BUILDINGS The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report giving details of expenditure incurred on the repair and maintenance of properties held on the Development Services Account during the period 1 April - 30 June 2000. It was indicated in the Report that £10,872.23 (50%) of the repairs and maintenance budget for Development Services' properties had been spent or committed as at 30 June 2000. It was agreed to note the Report.
Dispersal of Government Jobs to the Western Isles DS40.76	140*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report referring to the representations made by the Comhairle to the Scottish Office and the Scottish Executive, in connection with the dispersal of Civil Service jobs to the Western Isles, to reduce the impact of the loss of employment opportunities associated with: (1) the withdrawal of the RAF from Benbecula; (2) the closure of RAF Stornoway; (3) the closure of the Customs and Excise Office, Stornoway; (4) the closure of the Arnish Yard; and (5) the proposed closure of the Stornoway Meteorological Office. The Report set out the Scottish Executive's policy on relocation, which required the Executive, whenever it established a new unit or agency, or where an existing unit was merged or otherwise re-organised, to locate the unit outwith Edinburgh. It was further intimated that the Scottish Executive were currently considering whether a broad range of agencies or units met the relocation criteria and further stated that the Executive was considering the review of the Crofters Commission, the Administration of the Crofters etc, Building Grants and Loan Scheme and Gaelic Development Agencies. The Report suggested that it would be appropriate for the Comhairle to develop a strategy for the dispersal of Government and agency posts to the Western Isles, in the context of existing inward and marketing programmes, currently undertaken throughout the Western Isles ICT Advisory Service and the Outer Hebrides Marketing Group.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to send an open invitation to Jack McConnell MSP, Minister for Finance, to visit the Western Isles, in light of his responsibilities for Scottish Executive' Civil Servants; and (2) the Comhairle include the dispersal of Government and other jobs within the existing strategies for inward investment and marketing of the Western Isles, as a location where efficiency and effectiveness could be achieved. It was further agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make representations to the First Minister, seeking the relocation of Caledonian MacBrayne's Headquarters to the Western Isles.
Economic Workshop June 2000 DS40.77	141*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report appending details of the economic workshop held in Barra on 27 June 2000. The Report intimated that the objectives of the Workshop were to: (1) discuss an agreed policy, strategic developments or actions, which would significantly improve the socio-economic position of the Western Isles over the next five to ten years; and (2) identify the most appropriate delivery mechanisms for economic development in the Western Isles, involving the public agencies and partners.
		The Report highlighted broad support expressed at the Seminar for the establishment of a Local Economic Development Forum, which would produce a Business Plan for the Western Isles, on the basis that, any such Forum would have: (1) a strategic Western Isles wide focus; (2) a clearly defined remit; (3) ownership and commitment from all key partners at the highest level; (4) dedicated administrative/resources, possibly seconded from existing agencies; (5) simple and transparent procedures, maximising the use of ICT; and (6) effective and positive communications/public relations.
		The Report highlighted two options which were currently being considered in relation to the establishment of the Forum and referred to discussions which were taking place between Officers of the Comhairle, Western Isles Enterprise and other organisations, concerning the options outlined in the Report on the organisation of the Forum.
		The Report concluded that a preferred option would be submitted to the Comhairle and other organisations with an interest in the establishment of the Forum in October 2000.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Report be noted; (2) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to continue discussions with partner organisations, as outlined in his Report; and (3) the Acting Chief Executive be requested to submit a Report on the establishment of an Economic Forum to the October meeting of the Committee or as soon as possible thereafter.
Inducements to Business to Relocate DS40.78	142*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report intimating that, at present, the Comhairle operated no specific schemes to assist businesses wishing to relocate outwith the main town of Stornoway. It was stated in the Report that financial assistance was available to businesses under existing Comhairle Grant and Loan Schemes to expand their operations and that relocation/removal expenses could be counted as an eligible cost as part of a bid for financial support. It was stated in the Report that, whilst Western Isles Enterprise could assist with removal expenses, in those instances where a business was moving to the Western Isles from outwith the Highlands and Islands Enterprise area network, it could not grant financial aid to businesses moving within the network area. It was suggested in the Report that, in light of the economic development and planning issues associated with businesses relocating outwith the main town of Stornoway, it would be appropriate to undertake detailed discussions with other development agencies, with a view to achieving a satisfactory conclusion.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to enter into discussions with other development agencies to discuss the issue of inducements to businesses to relocate.
		It was agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following four items on the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Plots 5A and 6 Parkend Industrial Estate DS41.02.12	143	The Principal Administrator sought and obtained the Chairman's permission to withdraw this item.
Unit 8A, 7 James Street DS41.14.10	144*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from James Scott Ltd to terminate their lease of Unit 8A, 7 James Street. The Report gave background information in relation to the request. It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services, be authorised to agree to the request by James Scott Ltd to vacate Unit 8A, 7 James Street, Stornoway and that the current lease be terminated early without penalty to the tenant; and (2) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to advertise Unit 8A, 7 James Street, Stornoway, for lease.
Kirkibost Development Site DS42.66	145*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request by Mr Norman Macdonald of 14 Kirkibost, Bernera, Isle of Lewis, to purchase a plot at Kirkibost Development Site. The Report gave background information in relation to the request. It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive, be authorised to sell the plot measuring 185 m2 at the Kirkibost Development Site, as shown hatched on the plan attached to the Report by the Acting Chief Executive, to Mr Norman Macdonald, 14 Kirkibost, Bernera, Isle of Lewis, at the market valuation as determined by the District Valuer and on terms and conditions to be determined by the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive.
Request for Assistance for Training to Gain a Commercial Pilot's Licence DS02.54	146*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from Ms Annag Macleod, Barra, for financial assistance towards the costs involved in training to become a commercial pilot. The Report gave background information in relation to the request. It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to grant aid Ms Annag Macleod, Isle of Barra, towards the training costs associated with her gaining a commercial pilot's license, in the sum of £3,000, on the basis of this amount being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Business Development Budget) for 2000/01.
Cattle Production Scheme DS40.02	147*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request for financial assistance from the Lewis and Harris Cattle Producers Group towards the costs involved in establishing a Cattle Health Scheme aimed at: (1) maintaining cattle health; and (2) increasing cattle numbers.
		The Report outlined the costs involved in achieving accreditation in terms of the Hi-Health Scheme, on the basis that such accreditation would involve meeting veterinary herd inspection costs, blood testing costs and the maintenance of two quarantine areas. It was intimated in the Report that the proposals submitted by the Lewis and Harris Cattle Producers Group were supported, in principle, by a wide range of organisations, including Scottish Natural Heritage, the Scottish Crofters Union, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, and had also attracted financial assistance from Western Isles Enterprise, LEADER and the Comhairle. The Report also commented on the Cattle Producers Group's proposals to introduce a Heifer Retention Scheme, which would result in participants in the Scheme receiving a grant of £125 for Lewis and Harris born and reared beef heifers, on the basis that the Scheme would only be applied to a maximum annual number of 100 heifers in Lewis and Harris. The Report set out, in detail, the proposed financial contributions from the Comhairle towards the costs of: (1) the Hi-Health Scheme; and (2) the Heifer Retention Scheme for Lewis and Harris; and highlighted the importance of achieving an increase in cattle numbers and an improvement in the quality of cattle raised in Lewis and Harris. The Report further referred to the fact that similar proposals aimed at improving cattle health and achieving an increase in the number of cattle in the Uists, were under consideration by Officers of the Comhairle.
		It was recommended in the Report that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to provide financial assistance to the Lewis and Harris Cattle Producers Group, up to a maximum of £6,175 in 2000/01; £6,925 in 2001/02 and 2002/03; and £6,250 in 2003/04, subject to proof of expenditure to the satisfaction of the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Finance, on the basis of the Cattle Production Scheme being implemented as outlined in the Report and subject to the funding for 2000/01 to be found in the Crofting and Land Management Officer's post and subject to subsequent years funding being considered as part of the budget setting process for the 2001-2004 financial years.
		It was agreed to recommend approval of the recommendations detailed in the Report and to further recommend that: (1) the Acting Chief Executive be requested to liaise with the Uist Cattle Producers Group, with a view to drawing up proposals for a Cattle Production Scheme in the Uists, similar to that being proposed for Lewis and Harris, as soon as possible; and (2) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to take appropriate steps to introduce a quarantine area in the Uists, subject to the costs associated with the introduction of such an area being met from within existing budget provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services for 2000/01.
Programme and Progress: Fishery Piers T07.01	18	FISHERIES AND FISHERY PIERS The Director of Technical Services submitted the Capital Works Programme and Progress Report in respect of Fishery Piers. It was agreed to note the Report.
Tender Monitoring T07.01	149	There was submitted Tender Monitoring Report in respect of Fishery Pier Schemes, the tender value of which was in excess of £75,000. It was agreed to note the Report.
Proposed West Side Slipway Project DS02.55	150*	The Chairman ruled that a material change of circumstances had occurred since the Comhairle considered the following item in Spring 2000, namely, the fact that the West Side Association had secured funding for the West Side Slipway Project from the National Lottery and that it was not necessary to suspend Standing Order 67. The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from the West Side Association for financial assistance towards the costs involved in constructing a slipway at Port Mhor, Bragar. The Report gave background information in relation to the Comhairle's previous consideration of the slipway project and intimated that the project had not been included in the Capital Programme 2000/01 onwards. It was further intimated in the Report that the West Side Association had received an award in the sum of £68,000 from the National Lottery towards the cost of the project, which was estimated at £161,785 and that the Association had also sought financial assistance from Western Isles Enterprise in the sum of £48,000. The Report referred to the strong support within the local community for the West Side Slipway Project and appended a Project Initiation Report for the Project, which would have a positive economic impact including: (1) increased opportunities for fishing; and (2) the development of activities such as sea angling and windsurfing, as well as acting as a catalyst for other employment creating developments. It was recommended in the Report that the Committee consider the following courses of action: (1) to not agree to provide the financial assistance sought by the West Side Association for the West Side Slipway Project; and (2) to further consider the inclusion of provision within the Capital Programme 2001/02 of £40,000 for the West Side Slipway Project, subject to the outcome of monitoring the expenditure in the Programme.
		It was agreed to recommend that a sum of £40,000 be included in the Capital Programme 2001/02, in respect of the West Side Slipway Project, subject to the outcome of monitoring of expenditure in the programme and the Director of Finance being satisfied that all funding contributions were in place.
Leverburgh Harbour Access Road and Basin Improvement DS42.67	151*	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning the tender for the Leverburgh Harbour Access Road and Basin Improvement Contract and indicated that tender documentation had been issued to Contractors with a tender return date of 28 August 2000. It was further stated in the Report that the tender deadline had been extended to Thursday, 7 September 2000, following representation from Contractors that insufficient time was available to price the contract on a lump sum basis. It was agreed to note the Report and that the Director of Technical Services would be submitting a Report on this matter to the Policy and Resources Committee at its meeting on 12 September 2000.
		It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item on grounds defined in Standing Order 26(f), namely, information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person other than the Comhairle and Standing Order 26(d), information relating to any particular applicant for or recipient or former recipient of any financial assistance provided by the Comhairle
Request to Assign Lease of 2000m2 at Leverburgh Pier, Isle of Lewis DS41.35	152*	The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report seeking approval for the assignation of a lease agreement between the Comhairle and Malcolm Morrison in respect of 2000 m2 of land at Leverburgh Pier, Leverburgh, Isle of Harris to Seascott Limited. The Report gave background information in relation to the request to assign and lease to Seascott Limited and indicated that no additional financial cost to the Comhairle would result from the assignation. It was further intimated that Seascott Limited had confirmed that their proposed use of the area would comply with the terms and conditions of the existing lease. It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to assign the tenant's interest of the existing lease agreement between the Comhairle and Malcolm Morrison to Seascott Limited, Broadford, Isle of Skye, in respect of the subjects extending to 2000 m2 or thereby at Leverburgh Pier, Leverburgh, Isle of Harris, as shown on the plan attached to the Report by the Director of Corporate Service, subject to such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive and subject to the existing tenant bearing the Comhairle's legal fees and outlays incurred in respect of this transaction.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), 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.
Stockinish Pier DS41.64	153*	The Chairman ruled that a material change of circumstances had occurred since the Comhairle considered the following item in December 1999, namely, the fact that the Western Isles Enterprise had recently informed the Comhairle that the regulations relating to the closure of the PESCA Programme prevented the carry-over of the European Union funding for the undernoted Project and that it was not necessary to suspend Standing Order 67.
		The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that, as a result of regulations relating to the closure of the PESCA Programme, a funding shortfall had been identified in respect of the Stockinish Landing Jetty Project. It was intimated in the Report that Western Isles Enterprise had approved additional funding in the sum of £5,000 for the project and that it would be appropriate, in light of all the circumstances, for the Comhairle to consider granting an additional £5,000 for the Project. It was agreed to recommend that additional provision of £5,000 be allocated from the Fishery Development Revenue Budget (£3,000) and the Fishery Piers Revenue Budget (£2,000) by the Acting Chief Executive, to complete a revised funding package for the Stockinish Landing Jetty. 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.
		CONSERVATION
Meeting with representatives of Scottish Natural Heritage DS61.01	153	The Chairman invited Mr David Maclennan, Scottish Natural Heritage, to address the Committee on the topic of Special Areas of Conservation under the EC Habitats Directive. Members were afforded an opportunity to ask questions of Mr Maclennan. The Chairman thanked Mr Maclennan for his presentation.
Special Areas of Conservation Moderation Process DS61.01	154*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report intimating that the Scottish Executive had requested Scottish Natural Heritage to undertake a moderation process in relation to the list of candidate Special Areas of Conservation (cSACs) to establish all relevant interests that occurred on these sites. It was intimated that the review had concluded that there were a range of additional features of European significance which should be included in the description of the cSACs in the Western Isles which were as follows: North Rona; Lewis Peatlands; North Harris; North Uist Machair; Mointeach Scadabhaigh, North Uist; Monach Islands; and South Uist Machair.
		It was emphasised in the Report that the Comhairle's views had been sought on the additional features identified by Scottish Natural Heritage in the cSACs and that only scientific factors could be used as a basis for objection to the cSACs. It was intimated in the Report that, when the Comhairle had last considered the North Rona and Monach Islands SAC designations in March 1997, it had determined that the Chief Executive be authorised to make objections to the North Rona and Monach Islands SAC designations until a Seal Management Programme was brought forward and that, at present, no such programme had been put in place.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to inform SNH that the Comhairle did not raise any objection to the proposed new additional interests on any of the cSASs sites listed at Appendix 1 to the Report by the Acting Chief Executive; and (2) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to re-affirm to the Scottish Executive the objection the Comhairle had made in 1997 to the North Rona and Monach Islands cSAC designations until a Seal Management Programme was put in place.
Loch na Madadh Marine SAC Life Project Management Action Plan DS61.05.04	155*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report seeking approval on the Lochmaddy European Marine Site Management Action Plan as detailed at Appendix 2 to the Report. The Report referred to the establishment of the Lochmaddy European Marine Site Management Group and that the organisations and individuals represented on the Group had agreed, in principle, to the Management Action Plan for Lochmaddy EMS. In particular the Report detailed those operations to be considered by relevant authorities, including the Comhairle, at the Lochmaddy European Marine Site and also referred to the Lochmaddy European Marine Site Management Scheme which detailed the management structure, constitution and management action plan for the Lochmaddy European Marine Site Management Group, which would be for its first year of existence chaired by a representative of the Comhairle. It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to endorse the Management Action Plan for the Lochmaddy Marine SAC detailed at Appendix 2 of his Report; and (2) the Comhairle approve the constitution for the Lochmaddy European Marine Site Management Group, as detailed in the Lochmaddy European Marine Site Management Scheme.
Western Isles Local Agenda 21 DS40.79	156*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report referring to Local Authority's obligations to progress Local Agenda 21 Strategies. These strategies were required as a result of the Government's commitment to Agenda 21, and Action Plan for Sustainable Development in the 21st Century, agreed at the United Nations "Earth Summit" held in Rio de Janerio in 1992. The Report identified a range of themes which were normally included in Local Agenda 21 strategies including: (1) that resources should be used efficiently and waste minimised; (2) that pollution should be limited; (3) that access to facilities, services and other people should not be achieved at the expense of the environment or limited to those with cars; and (4) that human settlement should be on a scale and form valuing diversity and local distinctiveness. The Report gave details of examples of the Comhairle's achievements in relation to Local Agenda 21 and referred in particular to: (1) the provisions of an improved public transport service; (2) the recycling of stone from demolitions for use in environmental projects such as Nunton Cemetery Wall; and (3) making services more accessible to communities by decentralisation of staff; and further intimated that there was a need to ensure that actions and projects undertaken by the Comhairle within the framework of Local Agenda 21 were integrated within a Corporate Policy Framework. The Report set out proposals in relation to: (1) Local Agenda 21 and referred to the establishment of an Officer Group, which would have, as part of its remit, the consideration of how themes of Local Agenda 21 referred to in the Report could be made applicable and relevant to a remote island community; and (2) the preparation of a statement as to how all future Comhairle policies and projects should have regard to the Local Agenda 21 themes. It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle endorse the course of action proposed by the Acting Chief Executive in implementing Local Agenda 21 (Development Services Key Task 10).
Review of Biosphere Reserve Status for Loch Druidibeg, South Uist and St Kilda DS61.02.03	157*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that the Scottish Executive had invited the Comhairle to submit its views on the Government's recent review of UK Biosphere Reserves which had been undertaken in light of revised criteria. It was stated in the Report that the Review had concluded that, of the two reserves in the Western Isles at Loch Druidibeg, South Uist and St Kilda only Loch Druidibeg, met the current criteria and that St Kilda should be de-designated, for the following reason: "The absence of any local community made it impossible to fulfill the development functions of a biosphere reserve. Moreover, isolation makes many of the logistic functions such as education and training equally difficult. Consequently, it was decided that the site did not merit a site visit and could be recommended for de-designation as a biosphere reserve without further consideration."
		It was suggested in the Report that while St Kilda was not a typical community it was influenced by the activity at the Uist firing range located adjacent to the Loch Druidibeg biosphere reserve and that whilst the population was not permanent, there was a relationship between human activity and the conservation features of the area. The Report concluded that as biosphere reserve status was primarily an accolade the loss of designation would have little impact on any site.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle should support, in principle, the continued designation of Loch Druidibeg as a biosphere reserve, subject to clarification of the resource implications for the Comhairle of implementing the biosphere reserve; and (2) the Comhairle should reserve its position in relation to the proposed de-designation of St Kilda, until a more detailed study, similar to that for Loch Druidibeg, had been undertaken.
Lingerbay: Possible Special Area of Conservation DS61.01	158	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report indicating that Sarah Boyack, Minister for Transport and the Environment, had requested Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) to consider whether Lingerbay should be designated as a candidate for Special Area Conservation (cSAC). The Report suggested that it was difficult to reconcile the Minister's request to Scottish Natural Heritage and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee in relation to the Lingerbay site, in light of her statement on 14 June 2000, concerning proposals to designate some 90 of Scotland's most important natural environments as Special Areas of Conservation, under the European Communities Habitats Directive and that the list was based on scientific advice from Scottish Natural Heritage and the JNCC and was believed to be substantially complete. The Report further referred to Lafarge Redland Aggregates application to the Court of Session for a Judicial Review of the Minister of Transport and Environment's request to SNH and JNCC. It was agreed to note the Report.
Feasibility Study into Options of the Management of Mink in the Western Isles DS40.02.22	159*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that a study commissioned by Scottish Natural Heritage concerning the management of mink in the Western Isles had concluded that eradication of mink should be examined in two phases: Phase 1 - this would involve the eradication of mink from the Uists and Benbecula as well as covering South Harris; and Phase 2 (If deemed feasible) - would expand the eradication effort across the island chain with the aim of total eradication of mink from the Western Isles. It was stated in the Report that some 14 jobs would be created as a result of the implementation of the Phase 1 eradication referred to above, with a four year Phase 1 scheme estimated to cost £1.75 million. The Report referred to proposals by Scottish Natural Heritage to hold a Seminar in North Uist in September 2000, at which the local community and other interested parties, including the Comhairle, would have an opportunity to discuss the study on mink control. It was stated in the Report that trapping would take place during the 2000/2001 Winter - Spring period, on a pattern similar to that undertaken in 1999/2000, on the basis that funds had been allocated for such trapping by the Comhairle, Scottish Natural Heritage, RSPB and other parties.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle: (1) should continue its involvement with the Mink Trapping Programme already being undertaken; and (2) authorise the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services, to determine the Comhairle's participation in any future Seminar organised by Scottish Natural Heritage in connection with mink control.
		PLANNING POLICY
Draft Revision to National Planning Policy Guideline 1 - The Planning System DS20.09	160*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report commenting on the Draft Revision to National Planning Policy Guideline 1 - The Planning System. It was intimated in the Report that the consultative document set out the views of the Scottish Executive on the Planning System which it wished to revise on the basis that the system would: (1) set the land use framework for promoting sustainable economic development; (2) encourage and support regeneration and social justice; and (3) maintain and enhance the quality of the Natural Heritage and built environment. The Draft Revision to National Planning Policy Guideline 1 - The Planning System also dealt with issues such as: (1) Best Value; (2) Community Planning; (3) Sustainable Development; and (4) The Human Rights Act 1998; and also sought to promote greater use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in planning. The Report stated that the draft revision contained the expectation that planning processes, including development plan making and planning application determinations should be "speeded up" without any loss of quality. The Report further intimated that the Draft Revision set out proposals for raising awareness of the planning system amongst agencies, developers, Community Councils and Members of local authorities. It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle welcome the Draft Revision of National Planning Policy Guideline 1 - The Planning System, on the basis that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to seek further guidance from the Scottish Executive on the use of ICT in planning matters; and (2) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to request copies of the final version of the National Planning Policy Guideline 1 - The Planning System so that it could be widely circulated to all community councils, agencies and developers within the Western Isles.
		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.
Draft National Planning Policy Guideline 6: Renewable Energy Draft Version DS20.09	161*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report appending his response to the Draft Revision of National Planning Policy Guideline 6: Renewable Energy. The Report concluded that the positive approach towards renewable sources of energy detailed in the Draft National Planning Policy Guideline was to be welcomed but did identify that the main constraint to exporting renewable energy from the Western Isles, namely transmission capacity, had not been addressed in the Draft National Planning Policy Guideline. The Draft Response also concluded that the Draft National Planning Policy Guideline should be revised to give greater prominance to the potential role of community alternative energy schemes and set out the positive planning framework for national grid improvements on the basis that without these revisions being made there was a likelihood that the Western Isles would be marginalised in terms of its contribution towards national renewable energy targets. It was agreed to recommend that the action taken by the Acting Chief Executive in respect of the response detailed at appendix 1 of the Report concerning Draft National Planning Policy Guideline 6: Renewable Energy be homologated.
		PLANNING APPLICATIONS
4 Holm Road, Stornoway DS21.01	162*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for an extension to the house at 4 Holm Road, Stornoway. It was intimated in the Report that as the applicant Mr K Mackay was the brother in law of Mr Iain Morrison, Member for the Barvas Ward, the matter had not been dealt with in accordance with the terms of the Scheme of Delegation. The Report gave background information and commented on the application and indicated that the proposals were in conformity with planning legislation and that no representations had been received in relation to the application. It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the extension to the house at 4 Holm Road, Stornoway, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report.
		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.
Siting of Fish Cages, Loch Gil Speireig Mhor, Achmore DS21.01	163*	The Acting Director of Environmental Service submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the siting of six fish cages at Loch Gil Speireig Mhor, Achmore. The Report gave background information and commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received. It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the siting of six fish cages at Loch Gil Speireig Mhor, Achmore subject to the conditions detailed in the Report. 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.
Erection of Sports Centre at West Tarbert, Harris DS21.01	164*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the erection of a Sports Centre at West Tarbert, Harris. The Report gave background information and commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received . It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the erection of a sports centre at West Tarbert, Harris subject to the conditions detailed in the Report.
		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.
Scalpay Fish Processing Factory DS21.01	165*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the removal of Condition Number 2 from Consent 1999/196, which restricted vehicle movements to and from the proposed Scalpay Fish Processing Factory and for the provision of a construction road between Scalpay Bridge and the proposed factory. The Report gave background information and commented on the application.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the removal of Condition 2 from Consent 1999/196, which restricted vehicle movements to and from the proposed Scalpay Fish Processing Factory and for the provision of a construction road between Scalpay Bridge and the proposed factory, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report. 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.

		PERFORMANCE REVIEW
Reports Outstanding PR33.01.12	166	The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report detailing the Reports Outstanding from decisions of the Committee since 1 May 1994. The Acting Chief Executive reported that a meeting would be held on 7 September 2000, with the Scottish Executive Rural Affairs Department concerning slaughterhouses in the Western Isles. It was agreed to note the Report.
		RELATED MATTERS
Newton Ward Improvement Initiative DS40.80	167*	With reference to item 95 of the Minute of Meeting of 31 May 2000 the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report setting out proposals to identify possible solutions to the land use and environmental problems within the Newton Ward. it was intimated that the Newton ward comprised a mix of land uses such as industrial, commercial and housing with some areas of land within the ward being in a derelict, rundown or in generally poor environmental condition. It was intimated in the Report that it was proposed that Officers of the Comhairle working with Mr Angus Campbell, Member for the Newton ward, and other organisations and local owners should investigate the status and proposals for the areas referred to in the Report with a view to submitting a further report to the Comhairle on this matter at a future meeting. It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that the Acting Chief Executive and such other Officers of the Comhairle as he may deem appropriate, in consultation with the Member for the Newton Ward, other organisations and local land owners should investigate the status and proposals for vacant, derelict or under-utilised land within the Newton Ward with a view to submitting a Report to a future meeting of the Committee on this issue as soon as possible.
Office of Fair Trading's Report on Fuel Prices CH02.04.05	168*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report detailing the findings of the Office of Fair Trading's investigation into petrol and diesel pricing in the Highlands and Islands which had been published in July 2000. The OFT had concluded that no specific action was warranted in respect of the Highlands and Islands as a whole, however they had not been able to conclude that the market within the Western Isles was working competitively. The OFT would be further investigating the supply of petrol and diesel in the Western Isles. The Report further indicated that this review would also take into consideration the supply of marine diesel and the Comhairle's concerns in respect of heating oil would be considered as part of the OFT's informal UK wide review of that particular market.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that: (1) whilst sharing the dissapointment expressed by others, that the Office of Fair Trading did not consider there is any action it can take in respect of high petrol and diesel prices in the Highlands and Islands as a whole, that the Comhairle should welcome the separate investigation to be undertaken by the Office of Fair Trading in the Western Isles; and (2) the Comhairle remain committed to co-operating fully with the Office of Fair Trading with its latest investigation.
		It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item on grounds defined in Standing Order 26(f), namely, information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person other than the Comhairle and Standing Order 26(i), namely, any terms proposed or to be proposed by or to the Comhairle in the course of negotiations for a contract for the acquisition or disposal of properties or the supply of goods or services.
Maintenance Contract at Uidh Cemetery DS40.81	169*	The Acting Director of Environmental Service submitted a Report intimating that the Environmental Services Cleansing client acting in conjunction with Environmental Services DSO had bid for and won a contract to maintain the Uidh Cemetery for five years. The Report suggested that it would be appropriate to sub-contract the grass cutting element of the works to the Aignish Cemetery Committee with those parts of the contract which were concerned with the application of herbicides, growth retardants being performed by trained and certificated personnel within the Comhairle's employ. it was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle: (1) agree to homologate decisions by the Cleansing client to bid for and undertake the contracted works at the Uidh Cemetery; and (2) to authorise the Acting Director of Environmental Services, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services to sub-contract the grass cutting element of the works at the Uidh Cemetery to the Aignish Cemetery Committee on the basis detailed in the Report.
___