COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Wednesday, 18 November 1998 at 2.00pm

PRESENT	Mr Norman L Macdonald (Chairman)
	Mr Donald Maclean (Vice-Chairman)	Mr Kenneth Mackay
	Mr Roderick Morrison	Mr Norman Macdonald
	Mr Alexander A Macdonald	Mr Colin Campbell
	Mr Angus M Graham	Mrs Mary Bremner
	Mr Frank S Burns	Capt Roderick Mackinnon
	Mr Donald M Mackay	Mr Allan F Macleod
APOLOGIES	Mr Callum I Macmillan

Tribute: Mr Hamish Fraser		The Chairman referred to Mr Hamish Fraser who was shortly to be retiring and was attending his last meeting of the Committee. The Chairman thanked Mr Fraser for his contribution to the work of the Committee and extended best wishes for his retirement.
Development Services DS09.01	178	MINUTES The Minute of Meeting of 30 September 1998 was approved.
Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee DS09.04	179*	The Minute of Meeting of 2 October 1998 was approved and the recommendations contained therein recommended for approval with the exception of item 11 which had been approved by the Comhairle at its meeting on 20 October 1998. The Chief Executive reported that it was proposed to invite the following individuals and organisations to the next meeting of the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee at which the future of inshore fisheries and sustainability would be discussed: one representative from each of the following Fisheries Organisations: Mallaig & North West Fishermen's Association; Scottish Fishermen's Organisation Ltd; Western Isles Fisheries Trust; Shellfish Farming; Diver Fishermen; and Sea Angling (Stornoway Sea Angling Club);
		one representative from all Community Councils in the Western Isles; and other relevant interests: (a) Donald Macaulay, Chief Executive, Western Isles Enterprise; (b) Stuart Davidson, Fishery Officer; SFPA; (c) David Maclennan, Scottish Natural Heritage; (d) Alison Rothwell, RSPB Officer, Western Isles; (e) Paul Tyler, Minch Project Officer; and (f) Scottish Crofters Union (to represent `Crofter Fishermen') on the basis of no cost falling on the Comhairle as a result of any of the above named individuals and organisations attending the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee.
Development Services Sub-Committee DS09.02	180	The Minute of Meeting of the Development Services Sub-Committee of 22 October 1998 was noted.
Repairs and Maintenance DS41.01	181	FINANCE 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 1998 - 30 September 1998. It was indicated in the Report that £7,319.48 (40%) of the repairs and maintenance budget for Development Services had been spent or committed as at 30 September 1998. It was agreed to note the Report.
Second Quarter Revenue Out-turn PR110.08.13	182*	The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing Income and Revenue Expenditure incurred from 1 April to 30 September 1998. The Report compared such Income and Expenditure with provision made in the Revenue Estimates for Income and Expenditure for the Comhairle's services for 1998/99. It was noted that overspends were anticipated in Education and Social Work. The projected overspends in Education was within the 1% tolerances. The expected overspend in Social Work exceeded the 1% tolerances by £96,471. It was stated that it was expected that there would be savings of £398,000 in loan charges. It was proposed that this saving would be added to the Comhairle's balances. It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that: the Director of Social Work be required to find savings to bring the overspend on Social Work Committee within the 1% carry forward tolerance of £88,099; the forecast over and underspends on other Committees be noted; and the net savings on Capital Charges and Community Charge be put towards balances.
Non-Housing Capital Monitoring PR110.01	183*	The Director of Finance submitted a Report concerning the programme of Capital Expenditure for the Comhairle for the period 1 April 1998 to 31 March 1998 for all services except the Housing Revenue Account. The Report detailed the approved expenditure and estimated out-turn expenditure for the financial year 1998/99 for each service. It was noted in the Report that the forecast out-turn was £1,198,000 higher than the revised approved programme of £12,667,000. A summary of the variance was set out in the Report. Details of the Capital Programme, together with proposed revisions were appended to the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, approval of the forecast out-turn detailed in the Report by the Director of Finance as the revised Non-Housing Capital Programme for 1998/99 and that the additional CFCR projects be incorporated into the Programme
Budget Strategy PR110.05	184*	With reference to Item 89 of the Minute of Meeting of 28 September 1998, the Director of Finance submitted a Report setting out a proposed Budget Strategy for 1999/2000. The Report outlined the present financial requirements of the Comhairle and identified a number of new burdens and reductions in costs. Comments on inflation and interest rates were set out in the Report and the assumption regarding Revenue Support Grant, Special Islands Needs Allowance and capping were outlined. It was noted that there was an assumption of a 5% increase in Council Tax in 1999/2000, which left a shortfall of £948,000 to be funded from savings. It had been assumed that no balances were to be applied. Details of the provisional Cash Planning Limits for each service were appended to the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that: the provisional Cash Planning Limits for 1999/2000 as set out in Appendix B to the Report by the Director of Finance be approved, subject to virements arising from the review of the Chief Executive's Office; Heads of Service be required to identify and report on savings in their controllable budgets to bring 1998/99 budgets within Cash Planning Limits and for these savings to be considered by the Finance Sub-Committee Working Party; Heads of Service be required to identify potential savings of 1% of controllable budgets over and above those required to get to the cash planning limit as shown in Appendix B to the Report by the Director of Finance; and Heads of Service who wished to bid for growth be required to identify savings matching the growth bid, with no guarantee that the savings identified would be earmarked for their own growth bid.
Oil Industry DS40.09	185*	ECONOMIC DEVELOPMNENT The Chief Executive submitted a Report giving details of the issues considered by the Oil Industry Member/Officer Working Group which had included: the UK oil taxation situation; and
		the impact of oil related developments on rural coastal communities such as those which existed within na h-Eileanan an Iar. It was noted that the Chief Executive proposed to express the Comhairle's support for the position of the Oil Companies who had attended a meeting with Members of the Comhairle in London in March 1998. It was intimated in the Report that the Member/Officer Working Group considered that it would be appropriate for Members and Officers of the Comhairle to visit coastal communities in Norway, including those at Floro, Harstad and Hammerfest, to gain a better understanding of the way in which these communities had met the demands of the oil industry prior to the Comhairle taking any long term strategic decisions in relation to oil related development.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle agree to authorise the Director of Corporate Services to make the appropriate arrangements for a Study Visit in Summer 1999 by Members of the Comhairle on the Oil Industry Member/Officer Working Group with officer representation on the Visit being determined by the Chief Executive, on the basis that the Study Visit would include communities in coastal Norway, namely, Floro, Harstad and Hammerfest, which had experienced oil related developments in order to make a detailed assessment of the impact of these developments on the host communities; the Chief Executive be authorised to invite other organisations, including The Stornoway Trust and Western Isles Enterprise to participate in the Study Visit to Norway in Summer 1999; and the Chief Executive be authorised to invite representatives of Orkney and Shetland Island Councils to assist in the pre-planning associated with the Study Visit in order to ensure that all those participating in the visit would gain the maximum benefit.
Young Enterprise, Western Isles PR10.03	186*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report giving details of the Programme of activity associated with the Western Isles Young Enterprise Programme. It was intimated in the Report that the aim of the Programme was to introduce sixth year pupils to the world of work and business by assisting them to participate in the operation of a small business. The Report referred to an application for financial assistance from the Western Isles Young Enterprise Area Board to meet part of the costs associated with the Programme for 1998/99. It was emphasised that the Programme was important, not only as a result of the educational opportunities which it afforded to pupils in the Western Isles but also to stimulating the enterprise ethic in those who could be involved in businesses in the Western Isles in future years.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Chief Executive be authorised to make a grant of £2,500 to the Western Isles Young Enterprise Area Board to assist the Board in meeting its commitments to 135 pupils in the Western Isles in 1998/99 on the basis of the grant being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (LEADER) for 1998/99.
Meeting with Bob Stewart, Manager, Stornoway Job Centre PR10.03	187	The Chairman invited Mr Bob Stewart, Manager, Stornoway Job Centre, to address the Committee on changes to the present Community Employment Initiative and how these changes affected the "New Deal". At the conclusion of Mr Stewart's presentation, Members were afforded an opportunity to ask questions of Mr Stewart. The Chairman thanked Mr Stewart for his presentation.
Community Employment Initiative/New Deal PR10.03	188*	With reference to items 154 and 155 of the Minute of Meeting of the Development Services Committee of 30 September 1998, the Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that the European Social Fund Advisory Group had recommended that the undernoted three projects be amalgamated, prior to a single application for funding being made to the European Social Fund for training projects for the long term unemployed:
		Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Community Employment Initiative; Western Isles Enterprise's 25+ New Deal Pilot Project; and Urras nan Gearrannan's Project - Proiseact Treineadh nan Gearrannan. It was stated in the Report that the total potential funding to assist those who could possibly benefit from the amalgamated project had increased to £625,462 and it was further intimated that participants in the pilot project would be referred by the Employment Service via the "New Deal Gateway" with day to day management for this stage of the New Deal Project remaining with officers of the Comhairle.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Report and its consequences for the Community Employment Scheme be noted; and the Chief Executive be requested to submit a further Report to the Committee as soon as sufficient time had elapsed to properly evaluate progress within the pilot project.
Employment Service Programme Centres PR10.03	189*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report outlining the alternative means of delivering Jobseeker Programmes being introduced by the Employment Service. It was stated that Programme Centres would replace the existing jobseeking packages such as Job Club, Restart and Jobsearch and would deliver a series of modules which could be tailored to meet the individual needs of the jobseeker. The operation of Programme Centres was outlined in the Report. It was stated that the Comhairle had successfully bid to continue supporting jobseekers in securing employment for a further three years. It was noted that Programme Centres would be required to increase client contact from 20 hours to 25 hours per week. Support would be more client based giving added one to one support, both within the Centre and in remote localities. It was stated that in order to enable the delivery of the Programme Centre provision, an additional post of Assistant Programme Leader would be required for an average of 12 hours per week on scale APII, pro-rata to the hours worked. It was indicated that such an appointment would enable the Comhairle's Programme Centre to continue delivering high quality support to jobseekers.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned: to note the success of European and Development Services staff in securing a three year Programme Centre contract from the Employment Service; and that the Chief Executive be authorised to establish a post of part-time Assistant Programme Leader for an average of 12 hours per week on a fixed term contract, initially for the duration of the three-year employment service contract, on scale APII pro-rata to the hours worked; and in addition to the working hours outlined in (2) above, the Assistant provide cover for the Programme Centre Leader during holiday and sickness periods and during times when the Centre Leader was away from the Centre attending meetings or when dealing with clients in remote locations.
Telework '98 Conference Lisbon 23-25 September 1998 DS40.01.13	190*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that Mr Norman L Macdonald, Chairman had been invited by the European Commission to address the Telework '98 Conference which had taken place in Lisbon. Details of the topics covered at the Conference were outlined in the Report and it was intimated that every opportunity had been taken at the Conference to emphasise to the European Commission Officials the opportunities for using the Western Isles as a potential demonstration area for future programmes in teleworking. It was stated that, following the establishment of the Western Isles ICT Advisory Service, approximately 120 teleworking jobs had been created, with 550 people registered on the Advisory Service's database. The range of support services made available to local teleworkers by Lasair Limited were detailed in the Report. The Report referred to opportunities available to utilise the Internet as a marketing tool for Western Isles products and services and indicated that discussions were taking place between officers of the Comhairle, the Western Isles Tourist Board and Western Isles Enterprise in developing a strategic marketing plan for the Western Isles. It was further intimated that the Marketing Officer was, as part of the Comhairle's marketing support initiative, assisting individual companies to increase their business activity by utilising the World Wide Web. It was suggested in the Report that it would be appropriate, in light of the telework activity being undertaken in the Western Isles, to nominate Lasair Limited and the Comhairle's Web Site for the 1999 Teleworking Awards. It was further noted that the Western Isles ICT Advisory Service had already been entered for the Global Bangeman Challenge Award under the New Business Ventures category.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Chief Executive be authorised to take appropriate steps to ensure that Lasair Limited and the Comhairle's Web Sites were nominated for the 1998 Telework Awards; the Chief Executive and Director of Corporate Services be authorised to develop liaison with officials from DGXIII of the European Commission to ensure that the Western Isles remained at the cutting edge of ICT developments throughout Europe; and the Chief Executive be requested to submit further Reports on Internet Marketing to a future meeting of the Committee.
Business Development Service DS40.33.227	191	The Chief Executive submitted a Report giving details of the operation of the Business Development Service since the inception of the service on 1 July 1998. It was intimated that the service administered the undernoted Programmes and Schemes, namely: Business Loans (in partnership with the Royal Bank of Scotland and Western Isles Enterprise); Business Start (an interest free loan fund specifically for new business); The Fisheries Assistance Scheme; and The Marketing Support Initiative and the Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust. It was noted in the Report that, whilst the number of enquiries and activity associated with the Business Development Services had been encouraging, there had been a low level of interest expressed in relation to new business startups and that this highlighted the need to successfully market all of the above mentioned Schemes.
		It was agreed to note the Report.
		It was agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the public, including the press, be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item, on the grounds defined in Standing Order 26(f), namely, that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of a person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Seaweed Industry Market Research DS40.04.22	192*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report referring to the Market Research Study, assessing market opportunities for wet and dry seaweed from the Western Isles commissioned by the Comhairle and undertaken by IMES (UK) Limited. It was recommended in the Report that: the Report be noted; the Chief Executive be authorised to request IMES (UK) Limited to investigate further prospective opportunities not fully explored in their Report "Assessing Market Opportunities for Wet and Dry Seaweed from the Western Isles"; the Comhairle nominate Members of the Working Group to visit Girvan to discuss the future of the Western Isles Seaweed Industry with Nutrasweet Kelco representatives; the Comhairle should investigate the formation of a Seaweed Industry Association which would assist the industry throughout the Western Isles.
		It was agreed to recommend approval of recommendations (1) and (2) above and to further recommend that the Chief Executive be authorised to arrange a high level meeting with representatives of Nutrasweet Kelco at their Girvan plant to discuss the future of the Western Isles Seaweed Industry on the basis that the Comhairle would be represented at the meeting by the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Mrs Mary Bremner and subject to the Chief Executive submitting a further Report to a future meeting of the Committee on the outcome of the meeting with Nutrasweet Kelco.
Arnish Moor Business Park DS41.45	193*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report outlining the progress of the Arnish Moor Business Park. It was stated that it was expected that Phase 1 of the Park would be ready for occupancy in August 1999. Under the terms of the inter-agency project, Western Isles Enterprise were to take possession of that part of the development. The Comhairle and the Stornoway Trust would receive rental income from the remaining plots. It was proposed that the Comhairle enter into an agreement with the Stornoway Trust on the following basis: the Comhairle would provide to the Stornoway Trust management and administrative support in the development of the Park; the Stornoway Trust would be responsible for leasing the plots and on a quarterly basis would pay to the Comhairle 50% of the rents for a minimum of 20 years; and if any plots in the Business Park were sold by mutual agreement, the Comhairle would receive 50% of the sale price to be treated as a capital receipt.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle agree to a 50/50 share of rental or sale income with the Stornoway Trust in respect of the Arnish Moor Business Park Development for a minimum of 20 years, on conditions to be determined by the Director of Corporate Services.
Economic Development Functions in the Western Isles DS42.12	194*	There was submitted and noted: letter dated 13 May 1997 from Brian Stewart, Chief Executive, to Mr Steve Farrell, Private Secretary to the Minister for the Highlands and Islands Scottish Office; and Report by the Chief Executive intimating that Mr Donald Macaulay, Chief Executive, Western Isles Enterprise had been invited to address the Committee in connection with the Western Isles Enterprise Business Plan for 1999-2002. The Chairman welcomed Mr Donald Macaulay, Chief Executive of Western Isles Enterprise to the meeting and invited Mr Macaulay to address the Committee. Mr Macaulay outlined the aims of Western Isles Enterprise and, in particular, gave information in relation to the Local Enterprise Company's Business Plan for 1999-2002. An opportunity was afforded to Members to ask questions of Mr Macaulay.
		The Chairman thanked Mr Macaulay for his presentation. Arising out of consideration of this matter, it was agreed to recommend that the Chief Executive be authorised to make representations to Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Western Isles Enterprise, seeking: to ensure that Western Isles Enterprise is granted a power of "community action" with an appropriate budget; a re-assessment of the Local Enterprise Company's policy concerning assisting businesses in those areas where such assistance could lead to a potential displacement of business from existing companies.
		It was agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the public, including the press, be excluded from the meeting during consideration of items 195 and 196 below, on the grounds defined in Standing Order 26(f), namely, that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of a person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Sites and Properties Management DS41.01	195*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report inviting the Committee to consider various options regarding sites and properties held on the European and Development Services Account. The Report gave background information and commented on the following sites and properties: (1) Mossend Development Estate; (2) Plots 5a and 6, Parkend Industrial Estate; (3) Units 3 and 4 Barvas Industrial Estate; and (4) Unit B, Castlebay Factory, Isle of Barra.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle note the progress made at Mossend Development Estate in relation to the improvement and the general condition of the Estate and that the Chief Executive be authorised to continue to monitor the situation at the Estate; the Comhairle offer plots 5a and 6, Parkend Industrial Estate for sale to the existing tenant at the current market valuation per the District Valuer and on terms and conditions to be agreed by the Chief Executive and the Director of Corporate Services; the Chief Executive be authorised to advertise Unit 4, Barvas Industrial Estate for lease; and the Chief Executive be authorised to advertise Unit B, Castlebay Factory, Isle of Barra, for lease.
Proposed Boat Maintenance Facility at Ludaig, South Uist	196*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report regarding an application for financial assistance towards the development of a boat maintenance facility at Ludaig, South Uist. Details of the proposal were set out in the Report, together with comments on the proposal.
DS40.04.47		It was agreed to recommend that: the Project Initiation Report for the proposed maintenance facility at Ludaig, South Uist, be approved; the Chief Executive be authorised to contribute up to £20,000 towards the proposed boat maintenance facility project proposed by Kilbride Shellfish Limited on the basis of the funding for the project being considered in the context of a future Programme of Capital Expenditure; and the Comhairle's funding be subject to terms and conditions to be determined by the Chief Executive in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services and the Director of Finance.
Development and Building Control Service DS20	197	DEVELOPMENT CONTROL The Director of Environmental Service submitted a Report giving details of performance achieved by the Development Control Service and the Building Control Service and comparing such performance against the Accounts Commission's performance targets. The Report also commented on the position with regard to the implementation of tasks detailed in the Environmental Services Business Plan in relation to the Development Control Service and the Building Control Service. It was agreed to note the Report.
Builder's Yard and Manufacture and Storage of Concrete Products: Land Adjacent to 20 Claypark, Garrabost: Certificate of Lawfulness DS21.23	198*	With reference to item 149 of the Minute of Meeting of 31 August 1998, the Director of Environmental Service submitted a Report concerning an application for a Certificate of Lawfulness of Existing Use for a builder's yard and the manufacture and storage of concrete products on land adjacent to 20 Claypark, Garrabost, Isle of Lewis. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received. The Director of Environmental Services reported to the Committee that he had considered carefully the terms of the letter received from George Campbell dated 13 November 1998 and did not wish to alter the recommendation detailed in his Report concerning an application for a Certificate of Lawfulness of Existing Use for a builder's yard and the manufacture and storage of concrete products on land adjacent to 20 Claypark, Garrabost, Isle of Lewis.
		It was agreed to recommend that the application for a Certificate of Lawfulness of Existing Use for a builder's yard and the manufacture and storage of concrete products on land adjacent to 20 Claypark, Garrabost, Isle of Lewis, be refused in the terms of the draft Decision Notice detailed at Appendix 1 of the Report and that the Director of Environmental Services be authorised to notify the applicant of the decision.
Programme and Progress: Fishery Piers T07.01	199	FISHERIES, FISHERY PIERS AND FISH FARMING The Director of Technical Services submitted the Capital Works Programme and Progress Report in respect of Fishery Piers. It was agreed to note the Programme and Progress Report in respect of Fishery Piers.
Tender Monitoring DS65.02.01	200	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report detailing the tender amounts and actual costs incurred to October 1998 and projected final costs on those Fishery Pier Schemes, tender prices for which were in excess of £75,000. It was indicated in the Report that a final Report had been requested from Halcrow Crouch, Engineer, for the Brevig Harbour improvements to Harbour Entrance Scheme and that a Report be submitted to the Committee at the first appropriate opportunity. It was agreed to note the Report.
Licensing of Marine Fish Farming: Draft Guidance from the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department DS08.01	201*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report appending a letter dated 9 October 1998 from the Scottish Office, Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department which detailed an interim Scheme for the licensing of marine fish farms. It was indicated in the Report that the purpose of the Scottish Office Guidance was to: provide guidance on the factors to be taken into account when considering proposals for new marine fish farms or modifications to existing operations through the interim Scheme; and establish the National context for the preparation by planning authorities of non statutory marine fish farming framework plans for guiding the location of future marine fish farms.
		It was intimated that proposed locations for marine fish farms would be classified under three categories, namely: very sensitive areas; sensitive areas; and other areas; and that most of the sea lochs in the Western Isles which were currently used for fish farming were classified as either sensitive or very sensitive areas. It was stated in the Report that it was anticipated that the competent authority for the purposes of requiring an environmental assessment of fish farming development proposals would transfer from the Crown Estate to local authorities, as soon as the necessary primary legislation had been brought into force by the Scottish Parliament.
		The Report highlighted that the Scottish Office Guidance suggested that planning authorities should consider the revision or preparation of non statutory marine fish farm framework plans and that the involvement of the fish farming industry, as well as local and environmental interests, was essential in the preparation of such plans. The Report commented on the likely impact of the Scottish Office Guidance in the Western Isles with particular regard to the classification of fish farming areas as either sensitive or very sensitive. It was further intimated that there was inadequate information available to assess whether the Comhairle should necessarily agree with such classifications and that it would be appropriate to seek further information from the Scottish Office on this matter.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Chief Executive be authorised to seek further detailed information from the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department on the criteria used to define the proposed sensitive and very sensitive areas in the Western Isles referred to in the Draft Guidance from the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department on the licensing of Marine Fish Farming; and until such information was received and the Chief Executive had consulted the local fish farming industry and other interested bodies on their implications, the Comhairle did not accept the proposed classifications.
Economic Study of Fresh Water Fisheries DS40.01.15	202*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request for financial assistance from the Western Isles Fisheries Trust towards a proposed study of recreational fresh water fisheries in the Western Isles. It was intimated in the Report that the Trust wished to collate up to date definitive information on the economic value and potential of recreational fresh water fisheries, including salmon and brown trout angling, in the Western Isles. It was intimated that the total cost of the study was estimated in the sum of £22,000 and that the undernoted funding sources had been identified: Western Isles Enterprise - £3,000; and LEADER - £6,000. The Report concluded that the Study would complement the proposed Western Isles Visitor Study which was scheduled to take place in 1999.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Chief Executive be authorised to offer a grant of £3,000 to the Western Isles Fisheries Trust towards a proposed economic study of recreational fresh water fisheries in the Western Isles on the basis of the grant being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (LEADER and PESCA) for 1998/99; and the grant be subject to such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Chief Executive in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services.
Transportation and Fishery Piers: Schedule of Rates and Dues for 1999/2000 T07.08.02	203*	FISHERY PIERS With reference to item 121 of the Minute of Meeting of the Transportation Committee of 18 November 1998, the Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning proposals to alter the rates and dues levied on boats using harbours and piers throughout the Comhairle's area. Appended to the Report were details of the proposed rates and dues for Comhairle piers and harbours which it was proposed to apply from 1 April 1999. It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that the Director of Technical Services be authorised to introduce the proposed schedule of dues, as detailed in the Report, being the scale of charges to be applied to the Comhairle's various piers and harbours with effect from 1 April 1999.
Development Control Conservation Policy DS61.01	204*	CONSERVATION The Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report appending a draft Development Control Conservation Policy. It was intimated in the Report that the Conservation Policy applied to: listed buildings; conservation areas; scheduled ancient monuments; and the implications of all development proposals upon the archaeology of the Western Isles;
		and had the overall objective of ensuring the preservation and enhancement of the built heritage and archaeology of the Western Isles. It was intimated that the policy sought to draw together all aspects of building conservation into a single statement to indicate the Comhairle's view, role and procedure, relating to all conservation related issues.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Development Control Conservation Policy as detailed at Appendix 1 to the Report be approved and that the Director of Environmental Services be authorised to implement the policy.
Balivanich Enhancement Project DS40.66	205*	The Chairman welcomed Mr David Bell, Halcrow Fox, and invited him to address the Committee on the Balivanich Enhancement Project Final Report. At the conclusion of Mr Bell's presentation, an opportunity was afforded to Members to ask questions of Mr Bell. The Chairman thanked Mr Bell for his presentation. The Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report commenting on the Balivanich Enhancement Project Final Report which had been produced by Halcrow Fox. The Report commented on the principal physical and economic proposals detailed in the Consultants' Report and outlined a possible strategy towards the implementation of the recommendations detailed in the Report, including the possibility of using Companaidh Leasachadh nan Eilean Limited or the establishment of a Balivanich Community Company. It was emphasised in the Report that further uncertainties in relation to the future development of Balivanich remained, pending decisions to be taken as part of the "Defence Review" over the military presence and the role of the armed forces in the Uists in the future.
		It was recommended in the Report that: the Balivanich Enhancement Plan be approved as a guide for the future development and enhancement of Balivanich; and options for partnership between the Comhairle and local organisations and agencies to enable the implementation of the Plan, should be explored by the Director of Environmental Services.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Balivanich Enhancement Plan, as referred to in the Report by the Director of Environmental Services, be approved as a guide for the future development and enhancement of Balivanich; and options for partnership between the Comhairle and local organisations and agencies to enable the implementation of the Plan should be explored by the Director of Environmental Services as a matter of urgency.
National Parks - Scottish Natural Heritage Consultation Paper DS61.08	206*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that Scottish Natural Heritage had sought comments on its proposals for National Parks for Scotland. It was intimated in the Report that the Consultation Paper set out Scottish Natural Heritage's views on National Parks and outlined proposals for Loch Lomond and the Trossachs and the Cairngorms. It was indicated that Scottish Natural Heritage did not intend to make firm proposals for other National Park areas and was recommending that the Government should initiate discussion on the merits of one or two new areas being granted National Park status. It was noted that the Government had asked Scottish Natural Heritage to review the National Scenic Area designation with a view to ensuring the protection of areas which did not become National Parks. The Report detailed the potential benefits and disbenefits associated for any area which may be designated as a National Park and concluded that it would not be appropriate for the Comhairle to seek National Park status for any part of the Western Isles at the current time, in light of the fact that such designation would be likely to limit the range of economic enterprises which could be pursued in a National Park Area.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle welcome Scottish Natural Heritage's proposal for National Parks as an important contribution to the National Park debate; and the Chief Executive be authorised to advise Scottish Natural Heritage that it does not consider National Park status to be an appropriate response to the economic, social and environmental issues facing 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.
A New Approach to Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs Designations) DS61.05	207*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that the Scottish Office had sought comments on its proposals for taking A New Approach to the Designation of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). The Report highlighted the key proposals in the Consultation paper, namely: to confine future SSSIs to sites of national or international importance; to end the system of compensation unless in exceptional circumstances; to simplify and, perhaps, eliminate the need for the list of potentially damaging operations and move to a system where positive management with financial incentives became the norm; to give a stronger voice to local authorities and local communities in site management; and to balance the needs of owners and occupiers of SSSIs with European obligations.
		It was emphasised in the Report that the Government recognised the need to provide support for the management of land to maintain or enhance its major conservation value and referred to sources of funding under existing programmes and schemes to achieve this end. It was stated in the Report that the current system for the management of SSSIs did not take adequate account of local views and could be improved upon by ensuring that the aim of conserving the Natural Heritage should, wherever possible, assist rather than impede the sustainable use of the countryside and its natural resources. Comments on the proposals set out in the Consultation Paper were appended to the Report and it was recognised in the Report that the Consultation Paper was an important document in that it recognised that local communities had a legitimate and valued interest in the identification and safeguarding of sites which were of national or international importance.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle broadly welcome the Scottish Office proposals on the designation of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI's) as they place greater emphasis on incentives to enter into management agreements rather than on constraint and would lead to greater involvement by local communities; the comments set out in paragraph 6.1-6.4 of the Report, together with the Appendix to the Report be forwarded by the Chief Executive to the Scottish Office as representing the views of the Comhairle. 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.
Proposed Western Isles Visitor Survey DS40.08.12	208*	TOURISM The Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Western Isles Enterprise and the Western Isles Tourist Board to the Comhairle to support a Western Isles Visitor Survey to be carried out in 1999. Details of the Survey, which would cover the main tourist season from May to October 1999, were set out in the Report and it was intimated that the data gathered by the Survey would assist in the formulation of future tourist related policy and projects. It was intimated that Highlands and Islands Enterprise would undertake the overall management of the Survey and appoint Consultants on the basis of a Project Steering Group consisting of representatives of the funding partners being established to guide the survey, which was estimated to cost approximately £25,000. The Report concluded that the Tourism Survey would provide new and up to date information on the tourism sector which played a significant part in the Western Isles economy.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Chief Executive be authorised to contribute £5,500 towards the costs of the Western Isles Visitor Survey on the basis of the sum involved being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (LEADER and Tourism Marketing) for 1998/99;
		the Chief Executive be authorised to nominate relevant Comhairle officials to be members of the Project Steering Group for the Survey; and the Comhairle make representations to Highlands and Islands Enterprise that the Survey includes an investigation as to why West Highland visitors do not extend their trip to include the Western Isles.
Broadbay Local Plan DS24.03	209*	LOCAL PLAN The Chief Executive submitted a Report appending a schedule of representations received in relation to the finalised Broadbay Local Plan, together with his views as to the initial stance the Comhairle should consider taking in response to the representations received. It was intimated that following consideration of the representations, negotiations would commence to resolve any outstanding objections. It was further intimated that the finalised Plan would be amended to take account of any textual errors and factual changes which had occurred since the plan was prepared, for example, the publication of Planning Advice Notes.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle agree to the individual recommendations set out in the schedule of representations as detailed in the Report by the Chief Executive as forming initial responses to the representations received in respect of the finalised Broadbay Local Plan; the Chief Executive be authorised to undertake negotiations with a view to resolving outstanding objections that had been received as a result of the Consultation Exercise on the finalised Broadbay Local Plan; and the Chief Executive be requested to prepare a further Report for submission to a future meeting of the Committee, detailing the results of the negotiations, together with a Schedule of Proposed Modifications to the finalised Broadbay Local Plan.
An Lanntair Arts Centre, Louise Carnegie Site DS21.01	210*	PLANNING APPLICATIONS With reference to item 223 of the Minute of Meeting of 21 October 1997, the Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for a reserved matters consent for An Lanntair Arts Centre on the Louise Carnegie Car Park. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and detailed those responses received during the consultation period. It was stated in the Report that the application had been submitted to the Committee in light of the fact that during previous consideration of the application, it had been indicated that revisions would be submitted to the Committee for consideration.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant reserved matters consent for the An Lanntair Arts Centre on the Louise Carnegie Car Park, Stornoway, on the terms detailed in the draft Decision Notice appended to 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.
Install three Microwave Antennae at Plasterfield DS21.01	211*	The Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission to attach three microwave antennae to the new National Air Traffic Services' mast at Plasterfield, Stornoway, 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 of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the attachment of three microwave antennae to the new National Air Traffic Services' mast at Plasterfield, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, on the terms detailed in the draft Decision Notice appended to 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.
Sludge Treatment Works next to Former "Chivas Regal" Site DS21.01	212*	The Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for an interim sludge treatment works at a site next to the former "Chivas Regal Site" as detailed in the Report. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that the matter had been submitted to the Committee for consideration since it was an alternative to a proposal for the same development at Bennadrove, Isle of Lewis. It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for an interim sludge treatment works at a site next to the former "Chivas Regal Site", as detailed in the Report, on the basis detailed in the draft Decision Notice appended to the Report.
Interim Sludge Treatment Works at Bennadrove, Isle of Lewis DS21.01	213*	The Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for an interim sludge treatment works at Bennadrove, 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 of Environmental Services be authorised to inform the applicant that the application for planning permission for an interim sludge treatment works at Bennadrove, Isle of Lewis, had been refused on the basis set out in the draft Decision Notice appended to the Report, namely that: the proposed development would be likely to cause nuisance and harm to residents of the surrounding area generally, and residents of Newvalley, Guershader and Marybank areas in particular, by reasons of the unpleasant odour which is likely to be generated by the development and which is likely to emanate from lorries and other vehicles which are used to transport sludge and related products to and from the site;
		the proposed development would result in more lorries and other commercial vehicles passing through Marybank. This will exacerbate the nuisance from industrial traffic that is already suffered by the residents of the Marybank area and would be contrary to the aims and initiatives being pursued by the Comhairle and the local community to improve the environment of Marybank; and
		for the reasons given in (1) and (2) above, the proposed development would be contrary to policies ENV27, EC13 and DC1 and opportunity EC13/A in the finalised Broadbay Local Plan.
		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.
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