COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Wednesday, 16 June 1999 at 2.00pm

NS

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

Development Services DS09.01	81	MINUTES The Minutes of Meetings of 22 March 1999 and 19 May 1999 were approved.
Gaelic Development Sub-Committee PR03.05	82	The Minute of Meeting of the Gaelic Development Sub-Committee of 11 March 1999 was noted.
Development Services Sub-Committee DS09.02	83	The Minute of Meeting of the Development Services Sub-Committee of 28 April 1999 was noted.
Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee: Industry Membership DS40.04	84*	CONSTITUTION With reference to item 69 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 May 1994, the Acting Chief Executive and the Director of Corporate Services submitted a joint Report concerning a request from the Mallaig and North West Fishermen's Association to be represented on the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee. It was intimated in the Report that industry representation on the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee took account of the processing, marketing and fish farming sectors, as well as the catching sector and that the total membership of the Joint Consultative Committee had remained at 16 since it was established in 1979. The Report commented on the request by the Mallaig and North West Fishermen's Association and stated that, in the event of their request being acceded to, it would be necessary to increase the total membership of the Joint Consultative Committee to 18, in order to maintain equality in the number of industry representatives and the number of Comhairle representatives.
		The Report concluded that the present size of the Joint Consultative Committee and level of catching sector representatives was adequate, in light of the fact that the Western Isles Fishermen's Association represented a wide range of fishing methods from small static gear through to large pelagic trawling. It was suggested that it would be appropriate to invite the Mallaig and North West Fishermen's Association to attend meetings of the Joint Consultative Committee at the Association's own expense.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the arrangements for determining the industry members of the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee, should be as follows:
		six representatives of the catching sector resident in the Western Isles, nominated by the Western Isles Fishermen's Association;
		one representative of the process and marketing sector resident in the Western Isles; and one representative of the fish farming sector resident in the Western Isles;
		in respect of 1(b) and (c) above, the arrangements for seeking nominations be delegated to the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Chairman, and that it be delegated to the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee to appoint the representatives; and
		the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to include the Mallaig and North West Fishermen's Association on the list of organisations to be issued with a copy of the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee Agenda and to be invited to attend meetings in an observer capacity at the Association's own expense.
Determination of Marine Fish Farming Applications DS08.02	85*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report proposing that the Scheme of Administration be altered with regard to the determination of fish farm applications which could not be dealt with in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation. The Report referred to the Comhairle's increased role in the consideration of fish farm applications under the Interim Scheme for the Licensing of Marine Fish Farms introduced by the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department in 1998. The Report stated that the Comhairle's new role in the determination of marine fish farm applications had resulted in far more comments being submitted to the Comhairle than under the previous system and that it would, therefore, be appropriate to submit applications, which could not be determined in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation, to the Committee, rather than to the Development Services Sub-Committee.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to amend the Scheme of Administration, on the basis that marine fish farm applications which could not be dealt with in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation, should be reported to the Committee.
Fourth Quarter Revenue Out-Turn PR110.08.13	86	FINANCE The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing the Income and Revenue Expenditure incurred for the Comhairle's services for the period ended 31 March 1999 and comparing such Income and Expenditure with the Revenue Estimates for Income and Expenditure for the period. It was agreed to note the Report.
1998 Underspend Carry Forward PR110.08.13	87*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report outlining proposals to utilise the underspend in the Revenue Estimates for Development Services for 1998/99.
		It was agreed to recommend that, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that the £40,360 combined underspend in the 1998/99 budgets of the Environmental Services Department, be carried forward and used in the following manner: £2,000 to fund a proof of age card scheme; £3,000 to deal with coastal strandings and other public health nuisances; £5,000 to enable the replacement of amenity bins in Tarbert and Castlebay; £20,000 to meet the demand for removal of derelict vehicles and to further develop the litter/recycling initiative; and £10,360 for consultancy costs to draft community environmental improvement plans.
Carry Forward of Revenue Budgets PR110.08.13	88*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report outlining proposals to utilise the underspend in the Revenue Estimates for Development Services for 1998/99. It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that the earmarked amount of £21,251 be applied to the Gaelic Development budget of Sectoral and Area Support.
Non-Housing Capital Monitoring Final Out-Turn Figures 1998/99 PR110.01	89*	The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing the final out-turn expenditure in the financial year 1998/99 in respect of the Comhairle's Non-Housing Capital Programme. The Report compared the final out-turn expenditure with that budgeted and set out proposals for the management of slippage in the Programme and overspends.
		It was agreed to recommend that, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, the net underspend and slippage on the 1998/99 Capital Programme be carried forward to cover the consequent increased commitments in 1999/2000.
Repairs and Maintenance Revenue Programme 1998/99 Quarterly Expenditure Report to 31 March 1999 DS41.01	90*	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 1998 - 31 March 1999. It was indicated in the Report that expenditure incurred and committed during the 1998/99 financial year was £19,445.64, which sum represented 104% of the repairs and maintenance budget for Development Services account properties. It was agreed to recommend that: the Report be noted; and the Director of Technical Services be requested to submit further Reports on the repairs and maintenance of properties held on the Development Services account at quarterly intervals.
European and Development Services Current Activities DS40.01.02	91*	ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving a comprehensive review of the aims and functions of the European and Development Services Section in the Acting Chief Executive's Office. The Report identified the main aims of the Section as being: to seek and develop a diverse and enterprising local economy; to create quality jobs; to respond to community ambitions; to improve the living and working environment of the Western Isles; to help retain young people; and to attract people and businesses to visit the Western Isles and to establish themselves. It was intimated in the Report that the Section sponsored and administered Programmes and Schemes within the following areas: marketing and promotion; business advice and financial support; employment support and training initiatives; sectoral and area development support; and strategic planning and environmental projects. The Report concluded that, as a result of the activities of European and Development Services Section, many jobs had either been safeguarded or created in the Western Isles since 1994 and that more employment and investment opportunities existed in industries such as tourism, information communications technology, oil and fish farming. It was further intimated in the Report that the Committee would have the opportunity to debate future objectives and priorities for the Section in the context of consideration of the Key Tasks for the Development Services Committee.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle approve the range of Officer activity with respect to the European and Development Services Section of the Acting Chief Executive's Office, on the basis outlined in the Report. Arising out of consideration of this matter, it was further agreed to recommend that: Mr Donald M Mackay be nominated to serve on any Member/Officer Working Group established to undertake a major review of the roles performed by Community Education Officers and Development Officers within the Acting Chief Executive's Office in relation to community development; and the possibility of the Town Hall, Stornoway, being developed to include an aquarium and Fisheries Museum be added to the draft Key Tasks for the Development Services Committee. It was further agreed that the Acting Chief Executive be requested to submit a Report to a future meeting of the Committee, giving details of the number of jobs created and safeguarded as a result of the activities undertaken by the Comhairle through the European and Development Services Section of the Acting Chief Executive's Office.
Area Development Initiatives DS40.01.18	92*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the allocation of funds for Area Development Initiatives for 1999/2000. The Report gave details of the allocation of funding to Area Development Initiatives for the 1998/99 financial year and proposed the undernoted allocation for the 1999/2000 financial year, namely: Harris Development Limited £8,500 Uist 2000 £8,500 Southern Isles Amenity Trust £4,500 Iomairt Nis Limited £6,000 Pairc and Kinloch £1,500 Iomairt aig an Oir National Co-ordinator £4,000 Iomairt aig an Oir Bays of Harris £1,500 Iomairt aig an Oir Eriskay £1,500 Iomairt aig an Oir Lochboisdale £1,500 Iomairt aig an Oir Uig £1,500 TOTAL £39,000 It was further stated in the Report that the budget allocation for Area Development Initiatives for the 1999/2000 financial year was £42,000.
		The Report gave background information associated with the proposed allocations and intimated that one of the aims for all Area Development Initiatives should be that they became self sustaining in terms of their social-economic development activity, thereby no longer having to rely on Comhairle funding. In particular, the Report referred to the establishment of the Iomairt aig an Oir (IAAO) Initiative and the siting of the base for national co-ordination and administration for the Iomairt being in the Western Isles.
		It was recommended in the Report that: the Comhairle agree as a policy that financial assistance for core funding Area Development Initiatives be based on self-sustaining principles which would imply the adoption of exit strategies; the Comhairle agree to the financial allocations for Area Development Initiatives as detailed at paragraph 6.2 of the Report; and the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to undertake discussions with Harris Development Limited, Uist 2000, the Southern Isles Amenity Trust and Iomairt Nis Limited regarding exit strategies.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Acting Chief Executive be requested to submit a more detailed Report on Area Development Initiatives to the August meeting of the Committee; the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to approach Western Isles Enterprise for additional financial assistance for the Area Development Initiatives referred to in the Report;
		the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make interim payments, to be determined by him, to the organisations and projects referred to in the Report, up until 7 September 1999; the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to ensure that Officers within the European and Development Services Section of his Office maintain the work undertaken by the Development Officer for the Pairc and Kinloch area until the more detailed Report on Area Development Initiatives was considered by the Committee at its August meeting; and the Acting Chief Executive's more detailed Report on Area Development Initiatives should examine the issues relating to combining Community Education Officers and those Officers concerned with Economic Development within the European and Development Services Section of the Acting Chief Executive's Office.
Business Development Service DS40.24	93	With reference to item 7 of the Minute of Meeting of 27 January 1999, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving details of the work undertaken as part of the Business Development Service during the period 1 January 1999 - 30 April 1999, together with details of cumulative activity associated with the service since it was established on 1 July 1998, in respect of the following areas: Business Loans; Business Start; Fisheries Assistance Scheme; Marketing Support Initiative; and Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust.
		It was agreed to note the Report.
Western Isles Oil Industry DS02.39	94*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that, following a significant reduction in the price of oil world wide, oil exploration activity to the west of the Hebrides had been adversely affected. The Report gave further background information of the employment opportunities available in the oil industry for residents in the Western Isles and highlighted the fact that it was estimated that, at any given time, 200 people based in the Western Isles were working outwith the Islands in the oil industry. The Report further referred to the role of the Western Isles Oil Group in promoting the Western Isles to the oil industry and gave details of the Group's budget for the 1999/2000 financial year and suggested that it would be appropriate for the Comhairle to contribute £5,000 towards the activities of the Group. The Report further referred to the role of the Local Authority Standing Committee on Oil Fabrication, which included monitoring activities at oil fabrications yards throughout the UK and lobbying Central Government for improved conditions in relation to the ordering of work for these yards. The Report concluded that the oil industry made a significant contribution to the Western Isles economy, notwithstanding the recent downturn in activity within the industry and that the Comhairle should continue to provide support for the industry.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to pay a grant of £5,000 to the Western Isles Oil Group, on the basis of this sum being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Sectoral and Area Development Support Budget) for 1999/2000; and the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to inform the Local Authority Standing Committee on Oil Fabrication that the Comhairle had nominated Mr Norman L Macdonald, Member for the Goathill Ward to represent the Comhairle on the Committee.
Seaweed Industry DS40.04.22	95*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that, following the decision of Nutrasweet Kelco to no longer use wet seaweed from the Uists, some 30-40 jobs based in the Western Isles had been lost. The Report referred to the proposal from the Seaweed Member/Officer Working Group to hold a meeting of all individuals and organisations with an interest in the seaweed industry to discuss the future prospects for the industry. The Report referred to the decision of Monsanta, the parent company of Nutrasweet Kelco, to offer their Scottish based alginate business for sale and intimated that, in the event of the sale proceeding, it was anticipated that a representative of Nutrasweet Kelco would attend the meeting of organisations and individuals with an interest in the future of the industry in Western Isles. The Report concluded that the Study commissioned by the Comhairle entitled "Assessing the Market Opportunities for Wet and Dry Seaweed from the Western Isles", whilst referring to the declining world wide demand for the type of seaweed freely available from the Western Isles, had suggested that investment in new processing technology could open up new market opportunities.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive: make the Study prepared by IMES UK Limited entitled "Assessing the Market Opportunities for Wet and Dry Seaweed from the Western Isles", available to interested parties; and be authorised to arrange a meeting of all parties with an interest in the seaweed industry on 22 June 1999 in Uist. 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.
		Mr Norman L Macdonald declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter.
Fuel Price Differential CH02.04.05	96*	With reference to item 27 of the Minute of Meeting of 27 January 1999, the Acting Chief Executive and the Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report summarising the key findings to emerge from the visit undertaken by Members and Officers of the Comhairle to Norway, Finland and Sweden to study the petrol markets in these countries. The Report intimated that information on Schemes aimed at reducing the impact of high fuel prices in rural areas, which operated in other European Union countries, had been received from the Scottish Office although, it was noted that, in the case of the Schemes currently operated in Italy and France, the necessary European Union derogations expired in December 1999.
		It was stated in the Report that the Office of Fair Trading was currently undertaking investigations into the price of petrol and diesel in the Highlands and Islands and the price of other fuels in the Western Isles. The Report concluded that the lack of competition in relation to fuel supply in the Western Isles, together with the effect of Value Added Tax being added to fuel prices which were higher than on the Mainland, required the Government to take urgent action to address the harmful impact of high fuel prices on the Western Isles economy.
		It was agreed to recommend that urgent meeting(s) be sought with the appropriate Government Ministers to determine how the "Swedish Model" for fuel prices in rural areas could be adapted to offset the negative effect of high fuel prices in the Western Isles, on the basis that the Comhairle would be represented at any such meeting(s) by the Convener, Vice-Convener and Chairman, together with appropriate Officers of the Comhairle and that the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive, be authorised to make all necessary arrangements in connection with the meeting(s).
Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust DS40.01.19	97	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on the number of young people who had been given financial assistance to start their own business by the Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT). It was intimated in the Report that the management role for PSYBT within the Western Isles was undertaken by a Development Officer who had undertaken this work, together with responsibility for other Schemes operated by the European and Development Services Section of the Acting Chief Executive's Office. The Report concluded that the Trust had operated in a highly successful way in the Western Isles.
		It was agreed to note the Report.
Proposed Development of Shawbost Old School DS41.10.20	98*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report appending a Project Initiation Report (PIR) for the proposed development of Shawbost Old School. Details of the facilities which it was proposed to provide at the Old School when it was upgraded were given in the Report and it was intimated that the Comhairle had been requested to make a contribution of £50,000 to the Project, which would have significant social, recreational and educational benefits for the Shawbost and wider community, as well as assisting the economic development of the area.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle approve the Project Initiation Report for the proposed development of Shawbost Old School, on the basis detailed in the Report by the Chief Executive; the Director of Finance, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive, should ensure that the Comhairle consider a £50,000 contribution towards the proposed renovation and development of Shawbost Old School in the context of consideration of the Capital Programme 2000/2001; and any Comhairle funding towards the cost involved in renovating and developing the Shawbost Old School should be subject to terms and conditions to be determined by the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services and the Director of Ionmhas.
		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 the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
The Attic, 7 James Street, Stornoway DS41.14.16	99*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from Mr Peter McKibbin, trading as Stornoway Taxi Services, for the termination of his lease at the Attic, 7 James Street, Stornoway. The Report gave background information in relation to the application.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to advise Mr Peter McKibbin, trading as Stornoway Taxi Services, that the Comhairle had agreed to his request to vacate the Attic, 7 James Street, and that the Director of Corporate Services be further authorised to terminate the lease.
		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 the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Plot 8, Parkend Industrial Estate, Stornoway DS41.02.15	100*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from the existing tenant to purchase Plot 8, Parkend Industrial Estate. The Report gave background information and commented on the application. It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to offer Plot 8, Parkend Industrial Estate, for sale to the existing tenant at the current market valuation, to be determined by the District Valuer (North West Region) and on terms and conditions to be determined by the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services.
		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 the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person other than the Comhairle; and any instructions to Counsel and any Opinion of Counsel (whether or not in connection with any proceedings) and any advice received, information obtained or action to be taken in connection with: any legal proceedings by or against the Comhairle; or the determination of any matter affecting the Comhairle; (whether, in either case, proceedings had been commenced or were in contemplation), would be disclosed.
Provision of Skips at 7 James Street and Mossend Development Estate, Stornoway DS41.14.17	101*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the provision of refuse skips and both 7 James Street and Mossend Development Estate, Stornoway. The Report commented on the current position in relation to the provision of the skips and outlined options for the Committee's consideration. The Acting Chief Executive reported on the outcome of a survey of tenants at both 7 James Street and Mossend Development Estate, Stornoway, concerning the provision of skips and recommended that, in light of the outcome of the survey, the Comhairle approve the removal of the skips, on the basis that tenants would take their own co-operative action, as per the survey results at the tenants' own expense.
		It was agreed to recommend approval of the recommendation and that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to implement the recommendation.
Work Shop Units, Nask, Isle of Barra DS41.57	102*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report appending a Project Initiation Report (PIR) for the provision of two advance work shop units in Nask, Isle of Barra. The Report referred to the need for the provision of such units on Barra, especially for fishing related activity and further indicated that the estimated costs of constructing the units was £170,000. The Report identified the potential for Objective 1 funding for the provision of the two work shop units and intimated that the Comhairle could attract grant aid for the project, up to a maximum limit of 60% of the total project cost. It was recommended in the Report that the Comhairle: allocate funding over the next two financial years for the construction of two work shop units at Nask, Castlebay, Isle of Barra; and submit an application for Objective 1 funding for up to 60% of the eligible cost associated with the provision of the Units.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle: consider allocating funding over the next two financial years for the construction of two work shop units at Nask, Castlebay, Isle of Barra, on the basis detailed in the Report by the Acting Chief Executive; and the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to submit an application for Objective 1 funding for up to 60% of the eligible costs associated with the provision of two work shop units at Nask, Isle of Barra.
Crofting Projects DS40.02	103*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning applications for financial assistance from the undernoted Groups for the following Projects: South Uist Livestock Marketing Limited - Improvement of livestock facilities at Lochboisdale Market. Tong and Aird Tong Grazings Committee - Purchase of mini silage baler and wrapper. Lewis and Harris Sheep Producers Group - Land finishing pilot project. Full details of the Projects were given in the Report and it was emphasised that the Comhairle's Crofting Development Policy identified Projects which helped to reduce the dependency on bought in produce, or which added value to crofting produce as being of high priority for support. It was further stated that, in prioritising crofting projects for financial assistance, account was taken of the funding which could be drawn for such projects from other outside organisations. The Report further suggested that it would be appropriate to grant aid a demonstration of a mini baler in Uist and Barra.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to: make a grant of £6,000 to South Uist Livestock Marketing; make a grant of £2,533 to Tong and Aird Tong Grazings Committee;
		make a grant of £900 for Mini Baler Trials in Uist and Barra; and make a grant of £2,700 to the Lamb Finishing Pilot Project; on the basis detailed in the Report. Arising out of consideration of this item, it was further agreed to recommend that it be delegated to the Acting Chief Executive to make a grant of £1,000 to the Carloway, South Uist, Leverburgh and Barvas Cattle Shows, on the basis of the £4,000 involved being met from budgets to be identified by the Acting Chief Executive.
Thatched Buildings Policy Update DS21.23	104*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report outlining the action taken by him concerning the development of a Thatched Building Policy for the Western Isles. The Report referred to discussions which had taken place with Historic Scotland in relation to the provision of thatching skills courses and further suggested that it would be appropriate to give further consideration to the growing of bere barley for use as thatching material, as well as undertaking a pilot project for the growing of muran as a cash crop for roofing. The Report referred to an initial application for funding by the Southern Isles Amenity Trust to the Heritage Lottery fund, in connection with the renovation and maintenance of thatched buildings, in specific areas in the Uists and concluded that, if successful, the bid to Heritage Lottery Fund could have a significant impact in reversing the decline in the number of thatched buildings in the Uists.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle note the work undertaken to progress the Study into the use of materials for thatching; the Comhairle support, in principle, the bid for townscape heritage initiative funding to the National Heritage Lottery Fund; and in the event of a positive response to the bid for townscape heritage initiative funding, a further Report be prepared by the Acting Director of Environmental Services to consider any bid for a contribution by the Comhairle. It was further agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive, be authorised to take appropriate action with a view to ensuring that sites were planted with bere barley at the earliest opportunity.
Strategic Plan for Tourism in the Western Isles DS40.08	105*	TOURISM The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning an application for financial assistance from the Western Isles Tourist Board to undertake work associated with the development of an Area Tourism Strategy. The Report gave background information in relation to the application and identified those organisations, in addition to the Comhairle and Western Isles Enterprise, who would have an input to the strategy. Details of the costs associated with employing a Strategic Planning Assistant were given in the Report, together with the proposed funding of the post.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle: support the development, funding and implementation of an Area Tourism Strategy; and the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make a grant of £5,000 to the Western Isles Tourist Board for the employment of a Strategic Planning Assistant for a seven month period from June - November 1999, on the basis of the costs involved being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Marketing and Promotion).
Western Isles Tourist Board Application for Annual Grant DS02.07	106*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning an application for financial assistance from the Western Isles Tourist Board for the organisation's annual grant for 1999/2000. The background to the application was given in the Report and it was emphasised that it was important that the Western Isles Tourist Board could continue to effectively market the Western Isles. The Report highlighted the importance of tourism to the economy of the Western Isles and further indicated that tourism generated in the region of £12 million per annum with a further £5 million being spent on travel to the Islands and created approximately 1,000 full time equivalent jobs at the height of the tourist season. The Report referred to the development of the "Tourism Product" in the Western Isles and, in particular, to the Kildonan Museum, the MacGillivary Centre, Dun Carloway Centre and the Uig Community Centre.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle: support the efforts of the Western Isles Tourist Board in marketing the Western Isles as an ideal holiday location; and the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make a grant of £84,050 to the Western Isles Tourist Board for the 1999/2000 financial year.
Maritime Festival 3-7 August 1999 DS02.48	107*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning an application from Sail Hebrides for financial assistance towards the costs involved in co-ordinating a Maritime Festival during the period 3-7 August 1999. It was intimated in the Report that the aim of Sail Hebrides was to attract ships participating in the International Sail Training Association, Cutty Sark Tall Ships Race, to visit ports throughout the Western Isles. The Report concluded that the events proposed by Sail Hebrides met the criteria for grant aid from European and Development Services budgets as determined by the Comhairle in August 1998.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make a contribution of £4,000 to Sail Hebrides towards the costs of co-ordinating the proposed Maritime Festival, during the period 3-7 August 1999, on the basis of the sum involved being allocated from the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Marketing and Promotion) for 1999/2000.
Programme and Progress T07.01	108	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. Arising out of consideration of this item, it was agreed to request the Director of Technical Services to include the Leverburgh Waterfront Project in future Programme and Progress Reports.
		Mr Norman L Macdonald declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter.
Marine Fuel Provision at Fishery Piers DS21.23	109*	With reference to item 49 of the Minute of Meeting of 10 March 1999, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving detailed information on the implications for the Comhairle, as Harbour Authority, becoming involved in the supply of marine fuel. It was stated in the Report that the Comhairle did not have powers to sell marine fuel to private parties, however, as Harbour Authority, it could obtain such powers through a Parliamentary Order. The Report considered a range of issues associated with the Comhairle supplying fuel at its piers and harbours and, in particular, addressed: the Capital Expenditure implications; the maintenance implications; stock control and invoicing; and the introduction of systems to ensure payment for fuel and the minimising of any "bad debt". The likely income and operating costs associated with the Comhairle selling fuel at its piers and harbours were given in the Report and it was concluded that, based on current fuel rates throughout the Western Isles, the proposals for the Comhairle supplying fuel, as detailed in the Report, would be particularly attractive to under 12 metre vessels throughout the Western Isles. It was recommended in the Report that the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive, be authorised to seek to acquire powers for the Comhairle as Harbour Authority to trade in marine fuel through the promotion of a Parliamentary Order, subject to a further Report identifying financial provision for the costs associated with the Parliamentary Order, estimated at £30,000, being presented to the Committee at its August meeting.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be requested to submit a further more detailed Report on the above matter to the August meeting of the Committee, on the basis that the Report would, in particular, give information in relation to the Comhairle's ability to retail fuel at piers and harbours which were not in the Comhairle's ownership.
Uists and Benbecula Local Plan DS24.04	110*	LOCAL PLANS The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report appending a Schedule of Proposed Modifications to the Uists and Benbecula Local Plan. It was intimated in the Report that those who had submitted representations to the finalised Plan had indicated that they were satisfied with the proposed modifications to the Plan and that it was not anticipated, at this stage, that any objections would be raised to the subsequent stages in the adopting process.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle approve the Schedule of Proposed Modifications to the Uists and Benbecula finalised Local Plan, appended to the Report; the Comhairle certify the Uists and Benbecula finalised Local Plan, as amended by the above Schedule, to be in accordance with the Western Isles Structure Plan; and the Comhairle proceed to the adoption of the Uists and Benbecula Local Plan in accordance with the requirements of the Town and Country Planning (Structure and Local Plans) (Scotland) Regulations 1983.
Form Access Area and Playing Field, Adjacent to Borve Common Grazing, Isle of Lewis DS21.01	111*	PLANNING APPLICATIONS The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the provision of a new playing field, access road and an area for tipping of stone suitable for recycling on land adjacent to Borve Common Grazing, 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 Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the provision of a new playing field, access road and an area for tipping of stone suitable for recycling on land adjacent to Borve Common Grazing, Isle of Lewis, 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.
Community Hall and Car Park, Fivepenny Borve, Isle of Lewis DS21.01	112*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for outline planning permission for the construction of a new community hall and the formation of a car park at a site adjacent to an area at Fivepenny Borve, Common Grazings. The Report gave background information, 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 outline planning permission for the construction of a new community hall and the formation of a car park at a site adjacent to an area of Fivepenny Borve, Common Grazings, 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.
Erect Boundary Walls and Fences Around Stornoway Harbour DS21.01	113*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the delineation of the Stornoway Harbour area with walls and railings, on the basis that the walls and railings would extend from Cromwell Street to Perceval Square to North Beach to Pier Number 1 on South Beach. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received. It was recommended in the Report that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the delineation of the Stornoway Harbour area with walls and railings, on the basis of the walls and railings extending from Cromwell Street to Perceval Square to North Beach to Pier Number 1 on South Beach, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report.
		It was agreed to defer consideration of this matter to allow the Committee to visit the site at Stornoway Harbour, on the basis that the visit to the site would take place on Monday, 28 June 1999, prior to the application for planning permission being considered at a special meeting of the Committee on the evening of Monday, 28 June 1999.
Provision of Self Catering Accommodation at 47 Keith Street, Stornoway DS21.01	114*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the use of 47 Keith Street, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, for self catering tourist accommodation. The Report gave background information, 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 use of 47 Keith Street, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, for self catering tourist accommodation, 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.
Minor Alterations to Woolworths, 23 Cromwell Street, Stornoway DS21.01	115*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for minor alterations to Woolworths, 23 Cromwell Street, Stornoway. The Report gave background information, 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 minor alterations to Woolworths, 23 Cromwell Street, 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.
Genealogy Centre, Northton, Harris DS21.01	116*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the erection of a Genealogy Centre, adjacent to the Old Schoolhouse, Northton, Harris. It was intimated in the Report that the matter had been referred to the Committee for consideration as the applicant's agent, Mr Philip McLean, was the Local Member for the Plasterfield Ward, with the consequence that the application could not be dealt with under the terms of the Scheme of Delegation.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the erection of a Genealogy Centre, adjacent to the Old Schoolhouse, Northton, 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.
Provision of Fish Cages at Loch Lacasdale, Urgha, Harris DS21.01	117*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the provision of four sets of fish cages on Loch Lacasdale, Urgha, Harris. The Report gave background information, 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 provision of fish cages at Loch Lacasdale, Urgha, 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.
Fish Processing Factory, Former Ferry Slipway DS21.01	118*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the erection of a fish packing and processing factory at the former Ferry Slipway, Scalpay, Harris. It was intimated in the Report that the matter had been referred to the Committee for consideration as the applicant's agent was Mr Philip McLean, Member for the Plasterfield Ward, with the consequence that the application could not be dealt with in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the erection of a fish packing and processing factory at the former Ferry Slipway, Scalpay, Harris, subject to the Schedule of Conditions detailed at Appendix 1 of the Report and subject to the satisfactory conclusion of an agreement by the Director of Corporate Services with the applicant, in terms of Section 75 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, requiring the developer to contribute to the upgrading of the main road in the vicinity of the property known as Dolmar, Scalpay, to a standard and specification determined by the Director of Technical Services, as appropriate, for the safe, serviceable passage of articulated vehicles. 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 at Loch Hermidale, Benbecula DS21.01	119*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the siting of ten salmon cages for ongrowing smolts at Loch Hermidale, Benbecula. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received. The Chairman, seconded by the Vice-Chairman, moved that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the siting of ten salmon cages for ongrowing smolts at Loch Hermidale, Benbecula, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report. Mr James L Macarthur, seconded by Mr Donald Macdonald, moved that planning permission for the siting of ten salmon cages for ongrowing smolts at Loch Hermidale, Benbecula, be refused on the grounds that the development, as proposed, would detract from the visual amenity and appearance of the area. On the matter being put to the vote, the Motion received the majority of votes cast and it was agreed to recommend accordingly.
Retention of Building 11 Glen, Isle of Barra DS21.01	120*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the retention of a building for agriculture use at 11 Glen, Barra. The Report gave background information and commented on the application. It was agreed to recommend that the application for planning permission for the retention of a building for agricultural use at 11 Glen, Barra, be refused for the following reasons: The building, by reason of its forward siting, relative to the road and to the prevailing pattern of development in the area, constitutes an unduly prominent and incongruous feature, detrimental to the character of the surrounding area. Arising out of consideration of the above item, it was agreed that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be requested to submit a Report on sand extraction at Eoropie, Ness, Isle of Lewis.
Interim Consultation Procedure Marine Fish Farm, Loch Grimshader DS08.02	121*	MARINE FISH FARM APPLICATIONS The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for modification to a marine fish farm located near the head of Loch Grimshader. 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 inform the Crown Estate Commission that the Comhairle give a qualified favourable view to the modification of a marine fish farm located near the head of Loch Grimshader, subject to satisfactory marking and lighting being installed. 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.
Interim Consultation Procedure Marine Fish Farm, Loch Grosebay DS08.02	122*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for a marine fish farm at a site on Loch Grosebay, close to Eilean Dubh Chollaim. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received. It was recommended in the Report that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to inform the Crown Estate Commission that the Comhairle gave a favourable view to the application for a marine fish farm at a site in Loch Grosebay, close to Eilean Dubh Chollaim, subject to satisfactory marking and lighting being installed.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to inform the Crown Estate Commission that the Comhairle give an unfavourable view on the application for the marine fish farm at Loch Grosebay, close to Eilean Dubh Chollaim, on the grounds that: the development, as proposed, to would have a detrimental impact on the visual amenity of the area; the development, as proposed, would have an adverse affect on the prime commercial fishing grounds at the site; and the development, as proposed, could have an adverse impact on wild salmon and sea trout fisheries.
Key Tasks 1999-2002 PR11.40	123	PERFORMANCE REVIEW The Director of Corporate Services and the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report appending draft Key Tasks for the Development Services Committee for the period 1999-2002. It was suggested in the Report that Members of the Committee may wish to meet informally to discuss the Key Tasks with all Members of the Comhairle being afforded the opportunity to inform the Acting Chief Executive, in writing, of their comments on the draft Key Tasks. It was noted that a further Report on the Key Tasks 1999-2002 would be submitted to the August meeting of the Committee.
		It was agreed to note the Report on the basis that the Key Tasks 1999-2002 for the Committee, would be considered at the August meeting of the Committee.
Reports Outstanding PR33.01.12	124	The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report detailing the Reports outstanding arising from decisions of the Committee since 1 May 1994. It was agreed to note the Report.
Agenda 2000 Rural Development Regulation Consultation Paper DS40.02.27	125*	RELATED MATTERS The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report seeking homologation for the comments submitted to the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department on the implementation of the Agenda 2000 Rural Development Regulation, agreed by the European Union Council of Agricultural Ministers in March 1999. It was intimated in the Report that the new Regulation consolidated existing Regulations into one set of measures for rural development. It was agreed to recommend that the action taken by the Acting Chief Executive in submitting comments to the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department in response to the Rural Development Regulation Consultation Paper, on the basis detailed in the Report, be homologated.
Agenda 2000 Support for Less Favoured Areas Consultation Paper DS40.02.27	126*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report seeking homologation of the Action taken in submitting comments to the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department in response to the Agenda 2000: Support for Less Favoured Areas Consultation Paper. The Report gave background information on the Less Favoured Area designation and emphasised that any proposed changes to the hill livestock compensatory allowance involving a shift from headage payments to area payments, should in no way disadvantage crofters in the Western Isles.
		It was agreed to recommend that the action taken by the Chief Executive in submitting comments in response to the Less Favoured Area Consultation Paper, on the basis set out in the Report, be homologated.
Maritime Traffic Surveys: West of Hebrides and Minches DS40.04.48	127*	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning a consultation document issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) providing traffic survey data of vessel movements to the west of the Hebrides, through the deep water route and the Minches. The survey specifically concentrated on the deep water route which was the recommended route for laden tankers over 10,000 gross tonnes and from the survey, the MCA had concluded that there was no need to change the existing routing measures or to make the use of deep water route mandatory.
		It was recommended in the Report that the Director of Technical Services be authorised to respond to the Maritime Traffic Surveys Consultation Documents as follows: (1) the MCA be commended on undertaking the Maritime Traffic Survey and be requested to continue their effort to monitor traffic to the west of the Hebrides and through the Minches; (2) that the Government be urged to undertake hydrographic surveys so as to allow re-alignment of the deep water route northern leg east of St Kilda and west of the Flannan Isles; (3) that all vessels carrying over 2,500 tonnes of oil, either as cargo or bunkers, should be fitted with automatic towing pennants; and all the recommendations agreed by the Comhairle at its meeting of 28 January 1998 be re-iterated to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency;
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that the recommendations detailed in the Report by the Director of Technical Services, be approved, on the basis that the recommendation detailed at (3) above, be amended to include reference to dangerous cargos, as well as oil.
Former MOD Houses, Balivanich, Notification of Additional Borrowing Consent H02.31.35	128*	The Director of Housing submitted a Report referring to the additional borrowing consent which had been received by the Comhairle for the current financial year to increase the improvement and repair works to be undertaken at Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula. It was intimated in the Report that Officers of the Comhairle had prepared a priority list of projects to be undertaken at Balivanich, taking account of the proposals contained within the Balivanich Enhancement Plan, with the aim of attracting the maximum possible amount of financial assistance from other outside organisations. It was stated in the Report that the utilisation of the additional borrowing consent, in the sum of £250,000, for improvement and repair works at Balivanich, would be considered at a meeting of the MOD Housing Member/Officer Working Group, which it was anticipated would be held in June 1999, on the basis that a Report of the outcome of the Member/Officer Working Group would be submitted to the Committee at its August meeting.
		It was agreed to note the Report.
		Arising out of consideration of the above item, it was further agreed to recommend that the Comhairle be represented at any meeting in connection with the Strategic Defence Review by the Chairman of Development Services, or his nominee and the Chairman of the Housing Committee.
Proposed Environmental Awareness and Design Seminar DS03.18	129*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report seeking the views of Members regarding a proposal from the Western Isles Architects Group for an Environmental Awareness and Design Seminar to be staged in October 1999. The Report commented on the proposed Seminar and gave background information on the event. It was intimated that the Seminar could form part of a Programme of Members' training on planning and environmental issues.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle agree, in principle, to host and participate in an Environmental Awareness Seminar and that a further detailed Report be submitted by the Acting Director of Environmental Services to the August meeting of the Committee, to explain how the Seminar could be organised and funded.
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