COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Wednesday, 18 August 1999 at 2.00pm

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

Development Services DS09.01	132	MINUTES The Minute of Meeting of 28 June 1999, was approved.
Gaelic Development Sub-Committee PR03.05	133	The Minute of Meeting of the Gaelic Development Sub-Committee of 29 June 1999, was noted.
Development Services Sub-Committee DS09.02	134*	The Minute of Meeting of the Development Services Sub Committee of 30 June 1999, was noted. Arising out of consideration of the above item, it was agreed to recommend that the membership of the Development Services Sub-Committee be increased from seven to eight and that Mr Archibald K Campbell, Vice-Chairman, be appointed to serve on the Sub-Committee.
Quarterly Forecast Out-turn: June 1999 PR110.08.13	135	FINANCE The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing the Income and Revenue Expenditure incurred for the Comhairle's services, including the Housing Revenue Account, for the three months ending 30 June 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.
Non-Housing Capital Monitoring: 1 April 1999 - 30 June 1999 PR110.01	136*	The Director of Finance submitted a Report regarding the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the Comhairle for the period 1 April to 30 June 1999 for all services except the Housing Revenue Account. The Report detailed the approved expenditure and estimated out-turn expenditure for the financial year 1999/2000 for each service. It was noted that the forecast out-turn for 1999/2000 was £52,000 below the initial approved programme of £14,856,000. 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. Insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, it was agreed to recommend that: the forecast out-turn expenditure on the Capital Programme 1999/2000 of £14,856,000, as detailed in the Report by the Director of Finance, be approved as the revised programme for 1999/2000; and the South Uist Care Development be incorporated into the Programme and funded from £50,000 of existing resources within the Capital Programme.
Budget Strategy 2000-2003 PR110.05	137	The Principal Administrator sought and obtained the Chairman's permission with withdraw this item.
The Future Capital Programme PR110.08	138*	The Director of Finance submitted a Report setting out proposals for the future capital planning process. The methods used to determine the Capital Programmes for 1999/2000 were outlined in the Report, together with a review of the process. The methods used by a number of authorities to determine their Capital Programmes were set out. Projected capital resources for the period 2000/2001 to 2002/2003 were appended to the Report. Proposals for managing the Capital Programme and its projects and for allocating resources through a combined core funding and bidding process, including a suggested policy framework, were outlined in the Report, together with a proposed timetable for determining the Capital Programme 2000-2003.
		It was agreed to recommend that: a Seminar be held for Members of the Comhairle to discuss the proposals set out in the Report regarding future capital planning, with the Report by the Director of Finance to form the basis of discussion at the Seminar; a further Report on future capital planning be submitted to take account of the views expressed at the Seminar; and Members of the Comhairle be surveyed in January or February 2000 as to the success or otherwise of the process of setting the capital programme.
Crofting and Fisheries Joint Consultative Committees DS09.05 DS09.04	139*	CONSTITUTION The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the frequency and timing of the Crofting and Fisheries Joint Consultative Committees. It was indicated in the Report that the Joint Consultative Committees had been established so as to secure a formal consultative and liaison mechanism between the Comhairle and the two industries. Details of the existing membership of the Joint Consultative Committees were given in the Report and it was further indicated that, at present, there was no fixed schedule of meetings and that dates for meetings were arranged at times which were suitable to the Chairman of the appropriate Joint Consultative Committee and industry members.
		It was stated in the Report that meetings of both Joint Consultative Committees averaged two or three a year and that this was partly due to difficulties experienced in identifying dates which suited the availability of the industry members. In addition, on some occasions, attendance at meetings had been particularly low. The Report suggested that it would be appropriate to convene meetings of the Fisheries and Crofting Joint Consultative Committees, on the basis of two per year, with one held in the Spring and one in the Autumn, with additional meetings being arranged, if appropriate, and on the basis of particular issues being considered by ad hoc Working Groups, involving Members drawn from the Fisheries and Crofting Joint Consultative Committees.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to proceed on the basis that meetings of the Crofting and Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee be limited to two each per year, with additional meetings being arranged by the Director of Corporate Services, if appropriate, and that greater use be made of ad hoc Working Groups to achieve progress on specific issues.
Amendment to Scheme of Delegation C01.04	140*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report proposing an amendment to the current Scheme of Delegation in respect of the functions discharged by the Acting Director of Environmental Services in connection with building warrants. It was suggested in the Report that the Acting Director of Environmental Services should be authorised to determine applications for second extensions of building warrant approvals.
		It was agreed to recommend that, in respect of the functions discharged by the Acting Director of Environmental Services, the Comhairle's Scheme of Delegation be extended to include the following function: "The determination of applications for a second extension of the duration of a building warrant, where such an application was submitted to the Comhairle before the expiry of the first extension".
Repairs and Maintenance Revenue Programme Quarterly Expenditure Report to 30 June 1999 DS41.01	141	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report giving details of expenditure incurred on the repairs and maintenance of properties held on the Development Services account during the period 1 April - 30 June 1999. It was agreed to: note the Report; and note that further Reports on the repairs and maintenance of properties held on the Development Services account would continue to be placed before the Committee at quarterly intervals.
Area Development Initiatives DS40.01.18	142*	ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT With reference to item 92 of the Minute of Meeting of 16 June 1999, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the allocation of funds for Area Development Initiatives for 1999/2000. It was intimated in the Report that Western Isles Enterprise had stated that they would continue to assess projects on their merits rather than award funds on a block allocation basis. It was further intimated in the Report that: interim payments had been made to Harris Development Limited, Uist 2000, the Southern Isles Amenity Trust and Iomairt Nis Limited;
		the post of part-time Development Officer, Pairc and Kinloch, had now been advertised and it was anticipated that applicants would be interviewed in the near future; and issues relating to the combining of Community Education Officers and those Officers concerned with Economic Development in the European and Development Services Section of the Acting Chief Executive's Office, would be considered by the appropriate Member/Officer Working Group.
		The Report referred to a request for financial assistance from Ionad Loch a' Tuath Limited and gave background information to the request which concerned a range of projects from charting local place names to establishing a video archive. The Report 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 Ionad Loch a' Tuath Limited £3,000 Pairc and Kinloch £1,500 Iomairt air an Oir, National Co-ordinator £4,000 Iomairt air an Oir, Bays of Harris £1,500 Iomairt air an Oir, Eriskay £1,500 Iomairt air an Oir, Lochboisdale £1,500 Iomairt air an Oir, Uig and Bernera £1,500 TOTAL £42,000
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle agree, as a policy, the 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 detailed in paragraph 7.1 of the Report, on the basis that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make the necessary payments; and the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make arrangements for discussions to take place with Harris Development Limited, Uist 2000, The Southern Isles Amenity Trust and Iomairt Nis Limited regarding exit strategies.
		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 Standing Order 26(f), namely that, information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (other than the Comhairle), would be disclosed. Mr Malcolm J Macleod declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter.
Studio Drama Gaidhlig - Digital Broadcasting Equipment DS40.01.10	143*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request for funding from "Urras Drama Gaidhlig" to buy new digital broadcasting equipment to undertake a contract with SDN (S4C Digital Network) which had been granted the franchise for the initial Gaelic broadcast and digital television. The Report gave background information in connection with the application for financial assistance and indicated that the project would create four new broadcasting posts at Studio Drama Gaidhlig and that there was the possibility that the number of jobs created at the Studio being significantly increased, as a result of the creation of the capability to respond to current and future developments in Gaelic Digital Broadcasting.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to pay a grant of £50,000 to the Studio Drama Gaidhlig Trust to enable it to purchase digital equipment necessary for the Gaelic digital television programmes to be produced in Stornoway, and that the above sum should come from slippage in the Capital Programme as no other potential sources of funding could be identified.
Extension to Community Employment/ New Deal Pilot Initiative PR10.03	144*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the Comhairle's application for funding to the Highlands and Islands Partnership Programme for European Social Funding (ESF), to extend the Community Employment Initiative for a further year. It was stated in the Report that the Community Employment Initiative had the following objectives: to provide training and work experience for the long term unemployed; to equip participants with the skills and qualifications to enable them to secure and keep employment or to become self-employed; and to do useful work in the community and help to create jobs. The Report further stated that the New Deal Pilot Project for the long term unemployed, who were over 25 years of age, had been incorporated into the Comhairle's Community Employment Initiative.
		The Report highlighted the projects which had been assisted by those on the Community Employment Initiative, including: the conversion of an old dwelling house to a Museum in Habost, Ness; the rebuilding of two black houses/units in Garenin; and township development projects in South Lochs, the Uists and Barra. Details of the funding for an extension of the Initiative were given in the Report, as follows: European Social Fund £180,000 Employment Service, Western Isles Enterprise £78,000 Comhairle nan Eilean Siar £102,000 TOTAL £360,000
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle: approve a submission by the Acting Chief Executive to the European Social Fund for matching funding for the Comhairle's existing Community Employment Initiative; and approve expenditure of £102,000 as the Comhairle's contribution to the estimated costs for the calander Year 2000, with approximately £25,500 falling in the 1999/2000 budget and approximately £76,500 falling in the 2000/2001, this to be identified during the budget setting process for 2000/2001.
Seaweed Meeting DS40.04.22	145*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report appending a Note of Meeting of 22 June 1999, which had taken place concerning the Seaweed Industry in the Uists. The Report concluded that the demand for seaweed was depressed at the current time and was unlikely to improve in the short term and that there was a need for Officers of the Comhairle to meet with the seaweed cutters to establish whether alternative employment existed in other economic sectors. It was recommended in the Report that: the Comhairle continue to look at ways to support the Seaweed Industry; investigation of other markets for seaweed be ongoing so that the Islands are in an advantageous position to take advantage of any future upturn in market conditions; and the Comhairle should examine ways in which existing seaweed cutters could diversify into other opportunities.
		It was agreed to recommend approval of the recommendations, on the basis that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to arrange a meeting with seaweed cutters and with others interested in the seaweed industry to discuss the scope for diversification.
Highlands and Islands Trade Export Partnership DS02.51	146*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request for financial assistance from the Highlands and Islands Trade Export Partnership. The Report gave details of the work undertaken by the partnership and, in particular, referred to the publication "A Guide to Exporting from the Highlands and Islands". The Report concluded that the partnership did afford businesses within the Western Isles the opportunity to develop their export markets.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Comhairle agree to a contribution of £1,500 to the Highlands and Islands Trades Export Partnership; the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to pay a grant in the above amount to the partnership; and the Comhairle be provided with a Report at the end of the financial year, assessing the impact of the Highlands and Islands Trade Export Partnership's activities on firms in the Western Isles, in order to ascertain the benefit derived from this contribution.
Bulb Trials DS40.01	147*	With reference to item 156 of the Minute of Meeting of 30 September 1998, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving details of the outcome of the bulb trials undertaken at Northton, Tigharry, Berneray and Back. The Report indicated that participants in the trials were hoping to market some of the bulbs produced this year, as well as undertaking replanting of bulbs for sale in future years. It was anticipated that bulbs would be made available on the local market, in the first instance, prior to them being marketed on the mainland. The Report concluded that, whilst bulb yields had not been as high as originally envisaged, yields had been of such a level that marketing trials could take place.
		It was agreed to recommend that the: Comhairle continue support for the bulb trials; and situation regarding the future bulb trials, marketing, etc, be reviewed later in the year when more information regarding the sale of bulbs produced, was known.
Marine Fuel Provision at Fishery Piers DS21.23	148*	FISHERIES AND FISHERY PIERS Mr Norman L Macdonald declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter. With reference to item 109 of the Minute of Meeting of 16 June 1999, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report referring to the decision of the Comhairle that a further more detailed Report be submitted concerning the provision of marine fuel at fishery piers, on the basis that the Report would give further information in relation to the Comhairle's ability to retail fuel at piers and harbours which were not in the Comhairle's ownership. The Report gave background information on marine fuel use and demand in the Western Isles and intimated that there was some 40 pier, harbour and slip facilities owned by the Comhairle and that the Harbour Master had stated that, in his opinion, if cheaper fuel were to be made available at the Comhairle's piers, then the number of vessels using piers would increase. The Report concluded that the promotion of a Parliamentary Order to obtain powers to sell fuel would lead to significant savings in fuel costs for the local fishing fleet and other users of Comhairle piers. The Legal Services Manager reported that the Comhairle could promote a Parliamentary Order which would cover facilities in the Western Isles which were not owned by the Comhairle, including those at Stornoway Harbour and the Ferry Terminals at Tarbert, Lochboisdale and Castlebay, but that the chances of such an order becoming a private Act of Parliament would be greatly enhanced if such proposals had the consent of the parties having control of these harbours.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle, as Harbour Authority, proceed with the promotion of a Parliamentary Order to grant powers to sell fuel to harbour users, subject to the costs involved, estimated at £30,000, being identified within the Comhairle's normal budgetary processes and that the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive, be authorised to take the necessary action in connection with the promotion of the Parliamentary Order when the necessary budgetary provision had been made.
Western Isles PESCA Programme 1999/2000 DS40.04.36	149*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on those projects which contained an element of Comhairle funding within the Western Isles PESCA Programme. Details of the relevant projects were given in the Report and it was indicated that projects were aimed at: marketing and promotion; research and development; and safety training equipment and small piers infrastructure.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle approve the Programme of PESCA Expenditure, detailed in the Report by the Acting Chief Executive at a cost of £27,750, on the basis of this sum being met from the Revenue Estimates for European and Development Services (Fisheries Budget) for 1999/2000.
EU Structural Assistance in the Fisheries Sector DS40.04.29	150*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report seeking homologation for the action taken in making a submission to the Scottish Executive, Rural Affairs Department (SERAD), in respect of the proposed new European Union Structural Assistance Regulation in the Fisheries Sector for the period 2000-2006. The submission made to SERAD was appended to the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that the action taken by the Acting Chief Executive in making a submission to the Scottish Executive in relation to the European Union Structural Assistance Regulation for the Fisheries Sector 2000-2006, as detailed in his Report, be homologated.
Programme and Progress: Fishery Piers T07.01	151	The Director of Technical Services submitted the Capital Works Programme and Progress Report in respect of Fishery Piers. It was agreed to note the Report.
Tender Monitoring DS65.02.01	152	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report detailing the tender amounts and actual costs to July 1999 of those Fishery Pier Schemes, tender prices for which were in excess of £75,000. It was agreed to note the Report.
Crofters Commission Policy Review DS40.02.08	153	CROFTING The Principal Administrator sought and obtained the Chairman's permission to withdraw this item.
Coastal Access Project: Technical Support DS40.54	154*	TOURISM The Acting Chief Executive, the Acting Director of Environmental Services and the Director of Corporate Services submitted a joint Report concerning arrangements for technical support provided to the Coastal Access Project. It was intimated in the Report that technical support for the Coastal Access Project was provided by Philip McLean Associates (PMA) and that, as Mr Philip McLean, was the Member for the Plasterfield Ward, any matter involving Mr McLean should, in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation, Safeguards 5(1), be referred to the Comhairle for determination. The Report gave details of the work undertaken by Philip McLean Associates, associated with the Coastal Access Project, and gave details of project sites where work was still outstanding. It was stated that, if all future contracts and planning applications associated with the project were to be referred to the Comhairle, delays in undertaking work at specific sites would occur and it was suggested, therefore, that it would be appropriate to continue to adopt the arrangements for the work undertaken by Philip McLean Associates, as set out in the Report, on the basis that these arrangements contained sufficient safeguards to protect the public interest, as well as ensuring the efficient use of a Technical Consultant.
		It was agreed to recommend that, in respect of Coastal Access Sites approved by the Comhairle for development, it be delegated to the: Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chairman, to request the Director of Corporate Services to appoint Contractors to undertake works associated with the sites, on the basis detailed in the Report; and Acting Director of Environmental Services, in consultation with the Chairman, to determine planning applications for Coastal Access facilities at the sites referred to in the Report, unless an objection had been received.
Harris Development Limited - Harris Walkway Project Request for Financial Assistance DS02.52	155*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request for financial assistance, in the sum of £10,000, from Harris Development Limited, in connection with the proposed Harris Walkway Project. It was stated in the Report that the Harris Walkway Project was part of the Tourism Project to enhance and promote paths in Harris. Details of the estimated cost of the project were given in the Report and it was intimated that the Comhairle was already contributing approximately £22,310 towards the cost of the Project through the labour costs funded under the Community Employment Initiative. It was agreed to recommend that the: request by Harris Development Limited for £10,000 towards the material costs of the Harris Walkway Project be not acceded to; Acting Chief Executive be authorised to inform Harris Development Limited of the Comhairle's decision.
Broadbay Local Plan DS24.03	156*	LOCAL PLANS The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning representations made on the Finalised Broadbay Local Plan. The Report summarised the representations received, commented on the representations and set out a recommended course of action. It was stated in the Report that four objections to the Finalised Plan remained unresolved.
		Appended to the Report was a Schedule of Proposed Modifications to the Local Plan, which incorporated the recommendations detailed in the Report and also contained alterations resulting from factual changes, the publication of new legislation, planning guidance, etc, as well as minor corrections to the text. The Report concluded that it could be possible to place the Schedule of Proposed Modifications on deposit at the same time as a Public Local Inquiry was being arranged, if required, to consider the proposed Wastewater Treatment Plant at Holm.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle agree to: hold a Public Local Inquiry in respect of the objection made by Mrs Ishbel Macaulay, Lower Sandwick, should she confirm that she wished one to be held; not consider further the objection made by Mr Colin Scott, Back, as it was not duly made within the Deposit Period; delegate to the Head of European and Development Services, authority to resolve the outstanding objection from the Tiumpanhead Community Association; approve the recommendations set out at paragraph 5.1 of the Report, in response to the representations made by the Western Isles Chamber of Commerce, Stornoway Trust and Stornoway Pier and Harbour Commission; and approve the Schedule of Proposed Modifications to the Finalised Broadbay Local Plan and agree to place it, (as amended, to take account of recommendation (3) above), on deposit as required by the Town and Country Planning (Structure and Local Plans) (Scotland) Regulations 1983.
Alterations to Creed Lodge, Marybank DS22.01	157	BUILDING CONTROL The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for Building Warrant in respect of alterations to Creed Lodge, Marybank, Isle of Lewis. It was stated in the Report that the matter had been referred to the Committee for determination as the applicant, Mr Philip McLean, was the Member for the Plasterfield Electoral Division. It was agreed that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to issue a Building Warrant in respect of alterations at Creed Lodge, Marybank, Isle of Lewis.
Sand Extraction, Traigh Sanda, Eoropie DS21.	158	DEVELOPMENT CONTROL With reference to item 120 of the Minute of Meeting of 16 June 1999, the Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report giving information on the planning status of the extraction of sand at Traigh Sanda, Eoropie. The Report gave details of representations received in respect of this issue. It was intimated in the Report that, in order to maintain a greater degree of control over the removal of sand and to ensure that it was from the authorised area and in accordance with conditions relating to the planning consent, it was proposed to continue to monitor the area regularly and that, if the developers continued to breach the planning controls, the possibility of enforcement action would be considered. It was noted that a site meeting involving the Local Member, landowner, Contractor and Scottish Natural Heritage, had been arranged for Friday, 20 August 1999.
		It was agreed to note the Report.
Display Sign at Western Isles Health Board Offices, Stornoway Application for Advertisement Consent DS21.01	159	PLANNING APPLICATIONS The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for advertisement consent to display a sign at the Western Isles Health Board Offices, Stornoway. It was stated in the Report that the matter had been referred to the Committee for determination as the applicant, Mr Philip McLean, was the Member for the Plasterfield Electoral Division. It was agreed that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the erection of a display sign at the Western Isles Health Board Offices, Stornoway, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report.
Waste Water Treatment Plant and Landscaping at Holm, Stornoway DS21.01	160*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the construction of a waste water treatment plant and landscaping works at Holm, Stornoway. 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 construction of a waste water treatment plant and landscaping works at Holm, Stornoway, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report. It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the construction of a Waste Water Treatment Plant and Landscaping Works at Holm, on the basis detailed in the Report, subject to: the Acting Director of Environmental Services being authorised to impose a condition requiring that no traffic should move to and from the site, 20 minutes prior to the opening of Sandwickhill School and 20 minutes after the end of the school day for pupils at the School; and the satisfactory conclusion of an agreement in terms of Section 75 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, which would require the North of Scotland Water Authority to provide and improve footpaths in the area, as determined by the Acting Director of Environmental Services, in consultation with the Director of Technical Services and that the outcome of the negotiations with the North of Scotland Water Authority in respect of the conclusion of a Section 75 Agreement, be reported to the meeting of the Comhairle on 7 September 1999.
Erect Church Hall, Crossbost, Lochs, Isle of Lewis DS21.01	161*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the construction of a Church Hall at Crossbost, Lochs, Isle of Lewis. The Report gave background information and commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the construction of a Church Hall at Crossbost, Lochs, 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.
Change of Use of Offices to School, Stornoway Airport, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis DS21.01	162*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for a change of use of offices to a school at Stornoway Airport, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis. It was stated in the Report that, as the proposal was of a sensitive nature and given the interest shown in the proposal by the local community, the matter had been referred to the Committee for determination. It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for a change of use of the former RAF Offices at Stornoway Airport to a School, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report.
Siting of Four Fish Cages on Loch Drinishader, Harris DS21.01	163*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the siting of four fish cages on Loch Drinishader, Harris. The Report gave background information and commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received. It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the siting of four fish cages on Loch Drinishader, 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. Arising out of consideration of this matter, it was agreed that the Acting Chief Executive be requested to submit a Report on organic fish farming to a future meeting of the Committee.
Erect Slaughterhouse at Askernish, South Uist DS21.01	164*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the construction of a Slaughterhouse at Askernish, South Uist. The Report gave background information and 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 construction of a Slaughterhouse at Askernish, South Uist, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that planning permission for the construction of a Slaughterhouse at Askernish, South Uist, be refused for the following reason: By reason of the nature of the proposed development, which is classed as an "offensive trade" in Public Health terms, it would cause an unacceptable loss of amenity to residents in the area and would be out of keeping with the predominantly residential and crofting character of the area. and that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to inform the applicant of the decision.
Quad Bike Track at Lochcarnan, South Uist DS21.01	165*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the marking out of a course for a quad bike track at Lochcarnan, South Uist. The Report gave background information and commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the marking out of a course for a quad bike track at Lochcarnan, South Uist, 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.
Eriskay Causeway Harbour Facilities: Notice of Intention to Develop DS21.01	166*	With reference to item 30 of the Minute of Meeting of 27 January 1999, the Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report detailing planning aspects on the Harbours associated with the proposed causeway at Eriskay. The Report detailed a mechanism for dealing with the Notice of Intention to develop as expeditiously as possible. It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that: the Director of Technical Services be authorised to submit a Notice of Intention to Develop in respect of landward works at Ceann a' Gharaidh, Isle of Eriskay and, if appropriate, at Ardveenish, Isle of Barra; and the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Technical Services and the Director of Environmental Services, be authorised to refer the Notice of Intention to Develop in respect of Ceann a' Gharaidh, Isle of Eriskay, and, if appropriate, in respect of Ardveenish, Isle of Barra, to the Scottish Executive, together with any representations received and to meet with parties making representations with a view to resolving those representations.
		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	167*	FISHERIES AND FISHERY PIERS With reference to item 122 of the Minute of Meeting of 16 June 1999, the Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for a Marine Fish Farm on Loch Grosebay. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received. The Report further intimated that a public meeting had taken place on 29 July 1999 at which the application had been considered and also referred to submissions made by Mr Allan W Berrie and Friends of the Earth (Scotland), in connection with the proposed development. The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted his comments on the issues raised in the correspondence from Friends of the Earth (Scotland). 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 on the application for a marine fish farm at a site on Loch Grosebay, on the basis detailed in the Report, subject to satisfactory lighting and marking 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 gave an unfavourable view on the application for the marine fish farm on Loch Grosebay, on the grounds that the development, as proposed: would have a detrimental impact on the visual amenity of the area; would have an adverse affect on the prime commercial fishing grounds at the site; and could have an adverse impact on wild salmon and sea trout fisheries.
The Minch Forum DS40.04.33	168	RELATED MATTERS The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning partnership funding of the Minch Forum and seeking views on the Comhairle's future participation in the Minch Forum. The Report gave background information on the Minch Project and the Minch Forum and stated that Scottish Natural Heritage was the only organisation to give a commitment to the future funding of the Forum. The Report outlined a range of options for the Committee to consider in connection with the future liaison and partnership arrangements for organisations with an interest in the Minch. It was recommended in the Report that: the Comhairle, agree in principle, to the establishment of a Liaison Group involving the Comhairle, Highland Council, Argyll and Bute Council and Scottish Natural Heritage; and the Comhairle appoint a representative to the Liaison Group, once the membership of the Group was confirmed.
		It was agreed to defer consideration of the above matter, on the basis that the Acting Chief Executive would submit a Report to a future meeting of the Committee when further information on the role of the Comhairle in the New Minch Forum, or similar partnership organisation, was known.
Census Indicators: Fragile Areas in the Western Isles DS20.28	169*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report appending information on the social, economic characteristics of different areas within the Western Isles. It was indicated in the Report that the indicators chosen for the Study, were as follows: population change from 1971 to 1981; population change from 1981 to 1991; proportion of the population age up to 15 years old; proportion of the population aged 65 years and over; economic activity rates; and unemployment rates.
		The Report concluded that, based on the 1991 Census Indicators, the most fragile areas, in terms of their economic and social fragility in the Western Isles were: Pairc; Uig; The Bays of Harris; Port of Ness to Swainbost; and Carloway.
		It was indicated in the Report that the Comhairle's Structure Plan, currently under review, should take account of and include policy responses to the significant divergence of social and economic well-being, which existed between different areas of the Western Isles.
		It was recommended in the Report that the assessment outlined in the Report by the Acting Chief Executive, at Appendix 1, be used to develop appropriate policy responses for the peripheral and fragile areas of the Western Isles, during the current review of the Structure Plan.
		The Committee recorded its appreciation for the work undertaken by Keith Bray, Planning Officer, in respect of the above Report.
		It was agreed to recommend: approval of the recommendation detailed in the Report by the Acting Chief Executive; and
		that the Comhairle, Local Enterprise Company and the Health Board, should establish a Joint Working Group, with Member representation from each organisation to produce a five year Plan which would draw up policies and proposals to arrest the depopulation in Peripheral Policy Areas, Iomairt air an Oir areas, and Port of Ness to Swainbost and Dalmore to Tolstachaolais, on the basis that the Comhairle would be represented on the Working Group by:
		Mr Alexander A Macdonald, Convener Mr Donald Maclean, Chairman Mr Donald M Mackay, Member for the Lochs Ward.
Nurses Cottage, Berneray DS41.59	170*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning an application from the Berneray Community Association for financial assistance towards upgrading the former Nurses Cottage, Berneray. It was indicated in the Report that the Association plan to convert the former Nurses Cottage into office and accommodation space and had made application for funding to LEADER, the Millennium Commission and Western Isles Enterprise. The Report commented on the application.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle support the Berneray Community Association in their effort to upgrade the former Nurses Cottage for use as a community facility but, do not acceed to the request for £5,000 from the European and Development Services budget for this financial year and that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to inform the Community Association of the Comhairle's decision.
Balivanich, Ministry of Defence Housing: Progress Report H02.31.35	171*	The Director of Housing submitted a Report referring to the additional consent in the sum of £250,000 made available in respect of the Housing Capital Programme to undertake house alteration, adaptation and demolition works at Balivanich. The Report further stated that, at a meeting with Mr Calum Macdonald MP, the then Parliamentary Under-Secretary at the Scottish Office, an agreement had been secured with the Ministry of Defence that, if any further houses were sold at Balivanich, then the Ministry of Defence would agree the details of the sale of the houses with the Comhairle. The Report gave details of the existing and proposed use of the houses and garages purchased by the Comhairle from the Ministry of Defence in 1998 and further set out:
		projected Capital Expenditure and Painterwork expenditure in Balivanich over the four year period 1999/2000 - 2002/2003; and proposals for the utilisation of the additional consent in the sum of £250,000, which included the following works: play areas, 40 Baille na Cille - £30,000; house alterations, Winfield Close and Winfield Way - £120,000; house demolitions, 28 to 34 Winfield Way- £30,000; and external improvement, Tindill Place - £70,000 TOTAL - £250,000
		It was noted that it was proposed to convert twelve two bedroomed houses into six four bedroomed houses. It was recommended in the Report that the Comhairle approve the proposals outlined at paragraphs 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 and 8.1 of the Report, subject to the Director of Housing, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services, taking such steps as they may deem necessary to implement the said proposals.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, approval of the recommendations detailed in the Report by the Director of Housing, subject to: the conversation of twelve two bedroomed houses into six four bedroomed houses; it being delegated to the Director of Housing, in consultation with the Balivanich MOD Member/Officer Working Group to amend the proposals set out in the Report, to take account of changing circumstances, subject to such changes in the proposals being submitted to the Committee, for its consideration, at the earliest opportunity; and representations be made by the Comhairle to the ARMS Conversion Project, seeking their assistance in respect of the proposed RAF withdrawal at Balivanich.
Proposed Environmental Awareness and Design Seminar "Rural Design into the Millennium" DS03.18	172*	With reference to item 129 of the Minute of Meeting of 16 June 1999, the Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning the proposed arrangements for the Environmental Awareness and Design Seminar, "Rural Design into the Millennium", which it was anticipated would take place on 27 October 1999, in the Council Chamber, Council Offices, Stornoway. It was indicated in the Report that Rhona Brankin, Depute Minister for Cultural Heritage, Scottish Executive, could attend the Seminar. Details of the costs associated with staging the Seminar were given in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that favourable consideration be given to: the cost of late afternoon refreshments for delegates be met by the Comhairle, as part of its contribution to the Environmental Awareness and Design Seminar, "Rural Design into the Millennium"; a further financial contribution of up to £1,500 be made towards the cost of holding the Seminar; and the above-mentioned cost be met from the Revenue Estimates for 1999/2000 (Members' Training Budget), together with contributions from the training budgets of the Technical Services and Environmental Services Departments, determined by the Acting Chief Executive.
Telework '99 Conference: Aarhus, Denmark DS03.20	173*	CONFERENCES AND COURSES The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the European Community Telematics Forum, Telework '99, which was scheduled to take place in Aarhus, Denmark, between 22 - 24 September 1999. It was indicated in the Report that Mr Norman L Macdonald, Chairman of the Education Committee, had been invited by the organisers to address the Conference on the theme "Telework and its Importance in the Public Sector". It was stated in the Report that attendance of a nominee from the Committee at Telework '99 would further enhance the profile of the Comhairle and the Western Isles in European Developments in Information Technology. It was reported that the organisers of Telework '99 had agreed to meet the costs of Mr Donald Maclean attending the Conference.
		It was agreed to recommend that: Mr Donald Maclean, Member for the Lochmaddy Ward, be nominated to attend Telework '99; the annual Telework Conference be added to the List of Approved Conferences for the remainder of the Comhairle's term; and the Chairman, or his nominee, be nominated as the attendee for the Annual European Community Telematics Forum. 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.
Offshore Europe '99 DS03.19	174*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on the Offshore Europe '99 Oil Conference which is to be held in Aberdeen between 7 and 10 September 1999. It was intimated in the Report that the Offshore Europe Conference and Exhibition was the most important oil industry event held in the United Kingdom and that the Western Isles Oil Group would be taking part in the event.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle be represented at the Offshore Europe Oil Conference, to be held in Aberdeen between 7 and 10 September 1999, by Mr James L Macarthur and Mr Donald Manford. 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.
Key Tasks PR11.40	175*	PERFORMANCE REVIEW The Director of Corporate Services and Heads of Service submitted a Report appending a List of Key Tasks for the Development Services Committee for the period 1999-2002. It was recommended in the Report that Members approve the List of Key Tasks attached to the Report by the Director of Corporate Services and Heads of Service for the Development Services Committee for the period 1999-2002. It was agreed to recommend approval of the List of Key Tasks detailed in the Report by the Director of Corporate Services and Heads of Service for the Development Services Committee for the period 1999-2002, subject to the following amendments and subject to adequate budgetary provision being available: Delete Key Task 8. Amend Key Task 15, on the basis that this should now read "restore selected buildings from the thatched building stock". Key Task 5 be amended to read " seek by all means possible, inward investment to the Western Isles".
		Mr Norman L Macdonald declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter. Key Task 3 - Add that the Convener, Vice-Convener, Chairman and Vice-Chairman take appropriate action concerning fuel prices in the Western Isles in light of changing circumstances.
Best Value Review: Development Control Enforcement DS20.26	176*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report appending the Service Improvement Plan for Development Control Enforcement Function. It was intimated in the Report that consultations with Community Councils and other representative organisations had been undertaken and that no objections or substantive comments had been received.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle approve the Service Improvement Plan, as detailed at Appendix 1 to the Report by the Acting Director of Environmental Services, concerning Development Control Enforcement.
Reports Outstanding: Progress Report PR33.01.12	177	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.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle.
Leverburgh Waterfront DS40.01.06	178*	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report seeking homologation for the action taken by him in respect of works at the Leverburgh Waterfront. It was intimated in the Report that, as part of the Berneray Causeway Project, a large and long reach excavator had been available and that this event had coincided with the availability of stock piles of rock at Strond, Urgha and Carragheaich. The Report intimated that rock had been placed in the breakwater area and preliminary excavation work had taken place in the Harbour basin to establish if a small boat basin was viable. It was intimated in the Report that, as a result of action taken by the Director of Technical Services, it was anticipated that a significant reduction would be achieved in the cost associated with providing the breakwater at Leverburgh.
		It was agreed to recommend that the action taken by the Director of Technical Services in undertaking site investigation works in the Harbour basin at Leverburgh and the provision of rock in the breakwater, to the value of the existing budgetary provision for the current financial year, be homologated.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the -Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle.
Mink Control DS40.02.22	179*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that following sightings of mink at a number of locations in North Uist, a Group had been established to address the serious problems posed by mink to ground nesting bird populations, poultry, gamebirds and fish farms. Details of the first phase of activity planned by the Group were given in the Report and details of the funding of the Lewis and Harris Mink Control Group were also outlined.
		It was agreed to recommend that: the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to provide a financial contribution of £5,000 to the Uist Mink Group, towards the cost of a Uist Mink Control Scheme; the Comhairle reinstate the provision of financial support to the Lewis and Harris Mink Control Group in the sum of £2,000 and that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to pay grant, in this amount, to this Group; the Comhairle agree to support, in principle, a second phase large scale project to completely eradicate mink from the Western Isles, on the basis that the details of this second phase would be placed before the Comhairle at a future date; and the Comhairle be represented on the Uist Mink Group by the Vice-Chairman. 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.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle.
		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 any particular applicant for, or recipient or former recipient of, any financial assistance provided by the Comhairle and information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (other than the Comhairle), would be disclosed.
Ex-Gratia Payment DS40.33.282	180*	The Acting Chief Executive and Director of Finance submitted a Report giving details of an application for business assistance. The Report invited Members to consider making an ex-gratia payment to the applicant referred to in the Report and to determine the level of payment.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle approve an ex-gratia payment of £6,669 to the applicant referred to in the Report by the Acting Chief Executive and Director of Finance, in respect of financial loss.
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