scottish local authority news April 2021

Borderlands deal signed Renton Campus up to widespread acclaim Major post-covid Sports begins to take Facilities boosts PLUS: Over 40 pages shape of local authority news

scottish local authority news 1 Contents scottish local authority news April 2021

FEATURE Borderlands Build better Investment Deal Signed. Exciting with a Times Lie Ahead Master Builder P4–9

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fmb_consumer_a4.indd 1 07/08/2018 16:41:43 FEATURE Ground-breaking Borderlands The long-term benefits of the Deal will reach all parts of the UK Government’s Secretary of State Borderlands area, driving inclusive growth and delivering for Housing, Communities and Local Inclusive Growth Government, Rt Hon Robert Jenrick significant and lasting benefits for individuals, businesses MP, added: and communities. “The Borderlands Growth Deal will Deal formally The Deal is truly distinctive, covering £85 million in the region over the next realise a new era of regeneration and the largest geographical area of any 10 years that will build strategically on opportunity as we build back better regional growth Deal negotiated with the region’s natural assets, resources from the pandemic. the UK and Scottish Governments and and entrepreneurial spirit to drive signed it is the first cross-border deal. sustainable economic growth. “The Ad Gefrin Visitor Experience and Distillery, and the Carlisle It will bring a transformative step “Projects the Scottish Government Station regeneration project are just change for the businesses and is supporting through the Deal will two examples of schemes already communities of the Borderlands by focus on reinvigorating town centres, benefitting from the Deal which will increasing productivity, growing the expanding business sites and premises create jobs and improve regional working age population, and delivering to stimulate business growth and job connectivity. We’re levelling up across a more inclusive economy. The projects creation, maximising the region’s the UK by investing in jobs, driving of the Deal aim to deliver up to 5,500 appeal as a leading outdoor and economic growth, and strengthening jobs and £1.1billion of additional adventure tourism destination and our cross-border links,” GVA with a sustainable and inclusive equipping people with the skills they approach to growth. need to forge successful careers and UK Government Minister for Scotland, contribute to their communities. Iain Stewart MP, summed up the scale Scottish Government Cabinet of it all: Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure “The Deal is focused on local people and Connectivity, Michael Matheson and local priorities, enabling the “The benefits of the UK Government's MSP, said: Borderlands area to create sustainable £265 million investment in the deal jobs, re-invigorate the economy, and will be felt by communities across “I am pleased to be signing the build strategically for long term growth the whole of the Borderlands region Borderlands Growth Deal, confirming and prosperity.” and beyond. Exciting projects like the that the Scottish Government will invest Mountain Bike Innovation Centre and a Dairy Innovation Centre in Dumfries, Dairy Nexus, will build on regional strengths to create jobs and prosperity, while improvements to digital and transport infrastructure will ensure that we build back better from the pandemic.

“Across Scotland we have committed more than £1.5 billion to City Region and Growth Deals.”

The Borderlands Partnership is made up of Carlisle City Council, Cumbria County Council, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Northumberland County Council and Scottish Borders Council.

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Councillor John Mallinson, Leader of Carlisle City Council and Borderlands Partnership Board Co-Chair, said: walking and cycling “It’s fantastic to in Scotland announce the signing of the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal bringing fresh investment from Government of up to £350million to our region, alongside local contributions 46% decreased risk of developing heart disease and of over £100million. The Deal is an ambitious approach to cross-border working between Governments, local 45% decreased risk of cancer if you cycle to work authorities and other partners which will boost economic growth by helping existing business, encouraging new infrastructure; encouraging green tourism and business infrastructure, ventures and bringing a wealth of growth; and supporting innovation, will help position the Borderlands as is the yearly cost of physical inactivity to the improvements to our region. business and skills. Each theme has an a vibrant and attractive place to live £94m agreed set of projects which will help and visit. NHS in Scotland “The Deal will also provide crucial deliver a step change for the businesses support to our region’s recovery from and communities of Borderlands by Delivery has started on some of the the Covid-19 emergency and ensure increasing productivity, growing the Deal projects, following the release of we set in place strong foundations on working age population and delivering early funding by the UK Government. which to build back better and greener, a more inclusive economy. This includes top up funding for a 1/3 lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes if you delivering inclusive and sustainable Digital Voucher scheme supporting are physically active growth.” £20 million funding is included for an businesses and private customers to exciting redevelopment of Carlisle install high speed broadband; funding Councillor Mark Rowley, Executive Station and the surrounding area, to for the development of the Borderlands Member for Economic Regeneration act as a gateway to the region. Work to Energy Masterplan; £5million towards & Finance from Scottish Borders assess the benefits and challenges of the building of Lilidorei, a large-scale Council, who hold the other co-Chair extending the Edinburgh – Tweedbank new play village to enhance the visitor position, said: Borders Railway to Carlisle will also offer at the Alnwick Gardens, the start be progressed, including feasibility at of the work to redevelop Carlisle Station “The Borderlands Inclusive Growth the appropriate stage of business case and a £3million investment towards Deal will have a transformational development. The Deal will support the Ad Gefrin Visitor Experience and impact on the whole region, with the the delivery of a new Berwick Theatre Distillery in Northumberland. aim of creating 5,500 jobs, bringing while the skills and innovation work will in over 4 million extra tourists include the development of a Mountain The £350 million investment from the and improving mobile and digital Biking Innovation Centre in the Scottish UK and Scottish Governments is made connections thanks to the funding from Borders. Funding will also support up of £150 million for Scotland (£85 the two governments and the additional the development of Chapelcross in million from the Scottish Government investment the deal will attract. Dumfries and Galloway, as the region’s and £65 million from the UK clean growth strategic investment site Government) and up to £200 million for “The unlocking of investment in for low carbon energy generation and England from the UK Government. This our towns will generate a predicted energy efficient businesses. will be supported by over £100million £1.1billion uplift in the region’s GVA of funding from local partners. and the partners will be able to deliver The Deal will deliver an investment individually and collectively a range of of up to £31million in green energy projects which will not only improve projects and £7million to develop skills For more information, visit the the area for existing residents but also needed by the regional economy, along partnership website at encourage more to move here, which with much needed improvements in www.borderlandsgrowth.com will help address some of the common digital and mobile connectivity across challenges we face.” the region. The importance of the region’s towns will be the focus of the The Deal will deliver across four £50million Place Programme, which, themes: improving places; enabling along with significant investments in

6 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 7 Sustrans is a registered charity in Scotland (SC039263) and in England and Wales (326550)

Untitled-7 1 29/05/2018 16:57 FEATURE FEATURE

Council and a wide range of partners, “There is still a lot of work to do to “This investment will take the work of delivering new jobs and sustainable realise this vision and we will continue Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland to the growth which will help support the to work with the project partners and next level, helping to drive innovation region for decades to come. the local community to deliver the best and support product research and project for the region.” development, whilst working with local “Significant investment into our and international companies. towns and communities, our tourism Councillor Mark Rowley added: infrastructure and our environment “Together, these projects will power means that this deal will see the “This project is a fantastic example of commercial activity, attract inward benefits shared right across the whole how projects funded by the Borderlands investment and deliver positive of the Scottish Borders.” Inclusive Growth Deal can deliver outcomes in terms of public health and multiple benefits, in this case attracting supporting carbon neutral products A key element of the Borderlands new businesses and jobs to the area and processes. Growth Deal for the Scottish Borders and also attracting tourists from across is the development of a new mountain the UK, Europe and beyond, building on “We are also hugely excited by the bike innovation centre in Innerleithen the already well-established reputation potential research opportunities for that will support Scottish, UK and of the Tweed Valley as one of the world’s Edinburgh Napier colleagues across international businesses to develop top mountain biking destinations.” a range of academic disciplines, innovative products and services within including exercise science, health Mountain Bike Project pushes mountain biking and across the cycling Professor Nick Antonopoulos, Vice and wellbeing, engineering, inclusion, sector. Principal for Research and Innovation product design, artificial intelligence, at Edinburgh Napier University, said: big data and tourism.” In addition, a Tweed Valley Bike ahead as stand-out element Park and Trail Lab will be created in “Today marks another important South of Scotland Enterprise Chair, what is thought to be a global first milestone for Edinburgh Napier and its Russel Griggs OBE, added: in terms of combining tourism and partners in our journey towards making of new Borderlands Deal innovation. An adventure bike park the South of Scotland the mountain “This is a transformational project will deliver infrastructure to attract bike capital of Europe. which could really put the South of and sustainably manage visitors to the Scotland on the map as a global leader Ministers of the UK and • Funding to further develop • Pilot projects covering woodland, Scottish Borders. “The Borderlands Growth Deal will in the mountain biking industry. Scottish Governments and the 7Stanes mountain biking upland and agricultural areas build on the fantastic groundwork of network across the Borders and to trial new approaches to Borderlands Growth Deal will invest the Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland, “The potential wider economic and representatives of the five Dumfries and Galloway valuing and protecting our £19million in the project, which is hosted by Edinburgh Napier University community benefits for the local area councils of the Borderlands natural capital to capture the predicted to contribute £141m in Gross who have been supporting cycling are significant in terms of inward Partnership signed the deal, • A share of £20m for town benefits of our environment in Value Added (GVA) and over 400 new innovation since 2012. investment and jobs, as well as bringing which aims to drive inclusive and community improvement a sustainable way jobs in the South of Scotland. further UK and international tourism projects through a Place to the region. growth and deliver significant Programme in the south of Councillor Mark Rowley, Scottish The project partnership includes South and lasting benefits for Scotland Borders Council’s Executive Member of Scotland Enterprise as project “I am delighted the South of Scotland individuals, businesses and for Economic Regeneration and sponsors Scottish Borders Council, Enterprise will be working with various • Funding for improved business Finance, said: Edinburgh Napier University and partners to realise this ambition.” communities, including the infrastructure in Hawick and Scottish Cycling, through Developing creation of up to 5,500 jobs. Coldstream “The Borderlands Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS). The Borderlands Partnership is made Inclusive Growth Deal up of Carlisle City Council, Cumbria For the Scottish Borders • Funds to support rural innovation has been worked on by Ed Shoote of DMBinS, the Senior County Council, Dumfries and Galloway investment will include: and skills the various partners Project Manager of the Mountain Bike Council, Northumberland County for a number of years Project, said: Council and Scottish Borders Council. • £19m for an ambitious project to • Projects to tackle gaps in digital and this level of create the world’s first Mountain and mobile infrastructure investment and joined “It is fantastic news that the Bike Innovation Centre, up partnership working has never been Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, integrated adventure Bike Park • £10m to deliver the feasibility more important than it is today, as we including the Mountain Bike Project, and Trail Lab in Innerleithen activity around extending look towards our recovery from the is pushing ahead. (further details below) the Borders Railway from COVID-19 pandemic. Tweedbank to Carlisle “The vision is for the south of Scotland • £11m Destination Tweed tourism “This deal can transform the Scottish to be recognised as the European project based around the River • Funding to support the Borders, allowing multiple, large scale leader in mountain biking and this is Tweed generation of low carbon energy projects to be taken forward by the an important step forward.

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shape, and the new CGI images show what a fantastic facility it is going to be for the young people of Renton and the local community as a whole.” New £15.1m Councillor Karen Conaghan, Convener of Educational Services, said:

"I am delighted to Renton Campus see this project moving forward so quickly - pupils in Renton will be in is taking shape and making use of the modern facilities before they Construction of the new £15.1m Renton Campus is progress- which will be demolished once the new The principal contractor for the new know it. ing well, with contractors well on track to complete the first building is complete. build, Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Limited, continues “The various spaces shown in the new phase of the project later this year. Pupils from Renton Primary School, to implement strict health and safety images are sure to support the many Work to the structure of the campus breakout nooks for teaching in small children at Riverside ELCC and staff working practices on site to ensure different ways in which children and building has now been completed and groups; open plan dining areas; a have been involved throughout the work can continue safely, including young people learn, and the outdoor fitting out of the interior, including tiered common seating area; and project, participating in different design increased hand sanitiser stations and terraces in particular will give staff and partitions and mechanical and bright playrooms with floor to ceiling and construction activities to support physical distancing. children a great additional resource. electrical work, has begun. windows. the curriculum. A recent well received engagement session took place with Councillor Iain McLaren, Convener New CGI images show how the Two class bases with a shared staff using virtual technology and of Infrastructure, Regeneration and “The new and improved finished campus including a state- low stimulus room on each level realistic modelling to provide a live Economic Development, said: environment will without of-the-art Primary School, Language of the campus will be dedicated flythrough experience so that staff feel and Communication Base and Early to pupils within the Language and familiar with their new surroundings "I am so pleased to a doubt enhance the Learning and Childcare Centre will Communications Base with further before the move to the new campus. see such progress look. support accommodation such as the on the Renton educational experience of Sensory Room. The progress comes despite significant site despite the local young children for The modern facilities include terraces delays due to the impact of Covid-19, unforeseen delays for outdoor play and learning on each In addition, a new multi-use sports which saw the site closed for three last year. The many years to come.” floor which are accessible from the pitch and playground area will be months last year. campus is really indoor learning & teaching zones; built on the site of the current school, starting to take

10 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 11 EDUCATION EDUCATION Work to begin on an extension to Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig Loch Abar The school building opened in August 2015 with four classrooms and two nursery rooms, and was designed to allow the addition of up to four classrooms to meet future demand if required.

Robertson Construction Northern Limited have been appointed as the contractor for the project which is designed and managed by Highland Council’s Housing and Property Service. A temporary classroom unit has been located in the school grounds for use until the new classrooms are ready for occupation in October.

Councillor John Finlayson, Chair of the Council’s Education Committee, said: “Great news in challenging times is always Images by Halliday Fraser Munro welcome. Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig Loch Abar is a fantastic asset to Lochaber and with growing demand for Gaelic medium “With this innovative project Procurement Hub Major Projects education it is imperative that the facilities Framework, said: are available to meet the requests of the Work to begin on ground-breaking we are looking to put into community.” “The introduction of the city’s first practice the academic re- outdoor nursery further illustrates Chair of the Housing and Property outdoor learning nursery at Duthie Park search that demonstrates Aberdeen City Council’s commitment Committee, Councillor Ben Thompson, to provide first class learning said: “It is great to hear that construction that outdoor learning im- environments for pre-school children. will shortly begin at Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig Work on an innovative outdoor learning setting for pre-school children gets underway at We are proud to be the contractor Loch Abar to facilitate additional capacity. Aberdeen’s much-loved Duthie Park at the end of March. proves attainment, develops of choice for the delivery of this Demand for Gaelic medium in the Lochaber important project and look forward area is increasing year on year. Having Preparatory work is commencing with similar settings in Spain through investment. Innovation is every bit as motor skills and benefits to continuing our close collaboration the ability to meet demand is crucial and currently at the park’s East Lodge an external grant funded project, as important and the Duthie Park is the physical and mental health.” with the Council.” the extension will allow the school roll to which will be the hub for the ground- well as developing a community of perfect location to focus on for our pilot increase in due course. The building was breaking project which will see the practice based on outdoor teaching project. Hazlehead Park will also see an Costing £1.4m the Duthie Park Managing Director at Halliday Fraser designed with growth in mind and it is city’s first outdoor nursery. between ELC provisions in the city ELC outdoor learning setting as we look nursery is scheduled to open in Munro, David Halliday said: encouraging news that after only 6 years’ to utilise our wonderful greenspaces to summer and will also include expansion is now required and happening.” The pilot project is one of the highlights Councillor Jenny Laing, Co-Leader of offer more new and exciting options for provision for indoor space in adverse “Working with local communities in of Aberdeen City Council’s £23 million Aberdeen City Council, said: parents and children.” weather in the redeveloped East the Aberdeen area plays a huge role in Chair of the Gaelic Committee, Councillor investment transforming nursery Lodge to allow for adverse weather. our organisation and having already Calum Munro, said: “The addition of a settings across the city in preparation “We have undertaken The creation of outdoor nurseries and successfully delivered a number of two-classroom extension to Bun-Sgoil for expanded Early Learning and an extensive study hybrid nurseries – combining more Staff ratios will be enhanced from facilities for Aberdeen City Council, Ghàidhlig Loch Abar signifies the success Childcare (ELC) hours for children on the benefits of traditional nursery provision with indoor levels to ensure the highest we are delighted to be marking the of Gaelic Medium Education in Lochaber below school age. outdoor, play-based extended outdoor learning – is viewed standards of health and safety are start of the next adventure on Duthie and I’m delighted that this will allow learning and we are as an important part of a wider city maintained and all staff will be trained Park later this month. the demand for GME to be met and the Outdoor nurseries are being embraced now ready to apply this strategy, the key aims of which are to in outdoor provision and committed school roll to increase. This is another nationally in the public and private learning in Aberdeen enhance physical, emotional wellbeing to continuous development of their These state-of-the art ELC facilities great landmark in Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig sector as a part of a strategy informed and ensure our young children reap and social development. outdoor ELC practice. are a real attribute to the people in Loch Abar’s story and is a testament to the by the success of the same approach the rewards. the area and an excellent addition school staff’s dedication and also to the Gordon Milne, managing director, worldwide, with Scandinavia in to the greenspaces round about us. community’s desire for their children to Robertson Construction Eastern, particular championing the benefits “We are delighted to see so many of Duthie Park will no doubt create acquire Gaelic, to have an education which which is delivering the transfor- of outdoor learning. Practitioners in our new ELC settings coming onstream an accessible centre for all of the reflects Gaelic culture and to realise the mational nursery settings through Aberdeen have already collaborated and we are proud of our infrastructure community to enjoy.” benefits of bilingualism from a young age.”

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What Scotland Learned 100 stories of lockdown What Scotland Learned Highland Council 100 stories of lockdown St Sophia’s refurbishment to use provide ‘inspiring innovative building practices stories’ to Education St Sophia’s primary school in help deliver the Council’s carbon “This innovative project reduction commitment. Galston is set to become the will ensure that our young For Scotland’s learners, with Scotland’s educators UK’s first refurbishment of a For Scotland’s learners, with Scotland’s educators Councillor Fiona Scotland Collection school building to a EnerPHit Campbell, Cabinet learners will have the (Passivhaus) standard, with Member for Skills opportunity to learn in an Six submissions from The Highland Council were successful in being featured in Education detailed design work now well and Learning said: Scotland’s ‘What Scotland Learned: 100 stories of lockdown’ publication. environment that matches underway. “In June 2019, a decision was taken at the hopes and aspirations The submissions include Lundavra signposting to relevant professionals taking part in the World’s Largest Art This exciting two year project will be Cabinet to support the wishes of the of the school community.” Nursery, Speech and Language and through supportive conversations. Lesson. The schools also created a designed and delivered in partnership St Sophia’s school community and to Therapy, Early Years Education Support, They achieved this by creating a closed quilt by asking each of the 14 pupils with the Council’s appointed architects extensively refurbish the school. Badcaul and Scoraig Primaries, Wick Facebook page to be able to reach to create individual pieces which were Hamson Barron Smith, who are leading Sarah Lewis, Associate Director at High School, and on behalf of Comunn families during the national lockdown. then transformed into a Little Loch exponents of the Passivhaus / EnerPHit “This very successful school, which Hamson Barron Smith said: na Gàidhlig. After 2 weeks, 90% of their school roll Broom Schools Quilt by a member of benchmark performance standard. sits right at the heart of the local were engaging on the page with only the community. community, will benefit from a “Sustainability underpins everything we The booklet is a collection of inspiring 7 children’s families engaging through The project aims to achieve some of the significant programme of works. I am do – whether it’s our approach to design stories about how practitioners across email. Wick High School’s youth workers largest energy reductions in any school delighted that the design process is and consultancy, or the way we run our Scotland responded to the Covid-19 delivered daily, online, after school renovation to date by utilising the now underway and that our primary business. We work tirelessly with our crisis. The six submissions are Speech and Language Therapy and activities on the school’s Google internationally recognised standard. consultant, architects Hamson Barron ambitious clients who strive not only featured under various themes such Early Years Education Support jointly Classroom. These included: Monday The build, which is due on site in April Smith, are bringing their expertise for excellence in architectural design, as relationships, learning and teaching, planned online Continued Professional Motivation (weekly fitness challenges 2022, will focus on increased building to this project. Together with our but to provide truly healthy, comfortable school and community and health and Development (CPD) sessions called and goals), working with a local art fabric efficiency, adhering strictly to team from Facilities and Property and energy-efficient buildings.” wellbeing. ‘Words Up Wednesday’ which ran centre to produce a lockdown film with rigorous design and construction Management, they will ensure that weekly for the last 6 weeks of term, young people, researching art history principles, developed by the Passivhaus the school is sustainable, flexible and Chair of Education Committee, delivered by the Speech and Language and designing window panes for a Institute in Germany. This is a leading economical to run, now and into the Councillor John Finlayson said: Therapy team. The sessions were community art project, a weekly online edge project in Scotland, which will future. targeted at early level practitioners quiz, and a vlog/blog for young people “I am delighted and participants joined from across to review films they had watched. that so many remote and rural Highland areas. submissions from As outreach on behalf of Comunn na Highland were Early Years Education Support had Gàidhlig (CnaG), The Highland Council included in this a second successful submission in created a number of Gaelic-medium collection and the booklet which highlighted their (GM) films for young Gaelic speakers again they highlight innovative approach to training and and learners of Scottish Gaelic. These the great work, improvement using interactive bite- films were largely based on the cultural resilience and supportive ethos that size sessions tailored to the changing and natural heritage of Gaelic Scotland. continues to be evident in our schools. needs of early years staff during the In addition to the videos, Facebook Live While the six submissions outlined all pandemic. GM sessions were delivered. deserve praise, I know they are only the tip of the iceberg, in terms of what Badcaul and Scoraig Primaries during is happening right across our over 300 lockdown focused on activities to build schools and early learning centres.” community between the schools and to reinforce they were together despite Lundavra Nursery continued to engage being apart. Events included a remote with their families and provided support author visit, a bake-off competition, a by giving advice around any concerns, talent competition, sports week, and

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however some are relevant even Short, medium and long while remote learning is taking place and work on these will be ongoing (much work has already term action plan agreed been done). Areas of work include: Leadership and Empowerment, Performance at Education Committee Analysis and Improving Outcomes, Assessment and Moderation, Early Learning and Childcare At a recent meeting of the Short-term priorities (ELC), Curriculum, Safeguarding, Council’s Education Committee, e-learning and Highland Virtual Members agreed on The These priorities have been Academy (HVA), Inclusion and £1.4m pitches revamp kicking on Highland Council’s Education identified for immediate action Health and Wellbeing. and Learning three-year draft while schools are open for PITCH improvement works The total investment is just over £1.4m, unprecedented £270 million investment vulnerable children and the Once schools return to face action plan covering short, worth £1.4 million are kicking including nearly £500,000 for the All in our educational establishments. children of certain key workers to face learning, the pace of Saints and Notre Dame pitches from medium and longer term only: implementation of these priorities on at six schools and sports FES, the company which provides the “Sport and outdoor learning are just priorities. This plan is currently will accelerate, though at all times facilities across Inverclyde. facilities management services to as crucial as what goes on inside the focus of consultation with • Managing remote learning the wellbeing and workload of those schools. the classrooms and that’s why it’s all of our Highland schools, expectations, including staff in schools will determine the The 3G surface at Inverclyde Academy, important that pitches at our schools curricular progression and phasing of improvement activity. pictured, is the latest to be overhauled The local authority is also finalising and leisure facilities are kept in top and ongoing collaboration with assessment strategies by contractors working on behalf of plans to carry out improvements to condition to support our pupils, schools will underpin its future the council. surfaces at Lady Octavia Sports Centre teaching staff and the wider community development. • Supporting complex Executive Chief Officer for Education and Wemyss Bay Primary in the near with keeping active. needs during remote and Learning, Nicky Grant said: Work is also currently on the go to future while FES is planning further Chair of the Education Committee, learning period, including replace two artificial pitches at Parklea works at Clydeview Academy and Notre “I’m sure that once the current Councillor John Finlayson, said: safeguarding “We have circulated our latest position in Port Glasgow, including upgrades to Dame High. restrictions are lifted these pitches statement which sets out clear base of the stadium pitch which will will be put to good use by students, “Looking towards • Collecting data/tracking parameters and expectations following meet the quality standard set by world Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde residents and sports teams across the future, our focus and monitoring progress Scottish Government guidelines, football governing body FIFA. Council’s education and communities Inverclyde when it is safe to do so.” is on collaboration, with learning during remote putting the health and safety and convener, said: and enhancing learning period wellbeing of our children, young people Both projects follow the recent Groundworks have been taking place the capacity of and staff at the forefront of the return. replacement of two pitches at Notre “It’s been well- at Inverclyde Academy ahead of the the system to • Communication with Dame High, an upgrade from a 2G to a documented that planned installation of the new 3G continue to develop families and wider school “Officers and head teachers have been 3G surface at All Saints Primary, both Inverclyde has one ‘carpet’ next week. and improve communities focusing on a timeline of support for Greenock, with rejuvenation works also of the best schools outcomes, including engagement and staff, children, young people and completed to two playing fields at Port estates in Scotland, That project alone is expected to cost collaboration with Education Scotland • Supporting transitions parents. This includes a framework Glasgow Community Campus and the if not the UK, thanks just under £250k. Action. of principles that meets the Highland pitch at St Columba’s High in Gourock. to the council’s • Supporting health and context for curriculum delivery. We will “The pandemic, and our move to wellbeing also focus on Health and Wellbeing, remote learning, can easily begin Educational experiences and mitigating to focus discussion on the urgent • Operational support for against the gap – clear communication short-term priorities. While these are schools with staffing for all will be important.” important, this report and discussion today has shown that we also have an • General operational support eye on education and learning beyond for Senior Management in “We continue to work towards the pandemic. We continue to work schools improving the quality of towards improving the quality of the education and learning experience for Medium and long-term the education and learning our current and future generations of priorities Highland learners.” experience for our current Some of these priorities have been and future generations of scaled back due to the pandemic, Highland learners.”

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“We are committed to delivering Council’s Co Leaders hail completion of city’s quality and efficiency for the education and community sectors. Investments like this one from new multi-million pounds nursery settings Aberdeen City Council are a great example of how we can not only help improve children’s learning outcomes Aberdeen City Council’s Co Leader’s recently hailed continued progress on construction of but also their health and wellbeing. the 27 upgraded or new buildings to support additional early learning and childcare (ELC) “Working alongside Aberdeen City provision as three more sites are due to be completed soon. Council has given us the opportunity to further demonstrate our continued Tillydrone Nursery is due to be has been able to resume at a good innovation in supporting the early completed early this month, Northfield pace despite the challenges of the years sector, with practical and is due to be completed by the middle pandemic and we are delighted that innovative facility design. of March, joining Kingsford Nursery young families and entire communities which completes this week. Following will be benefitting from the marvellous final utilities connections and Care new facilities in the very near future.” “We are delighted to Inspectorate registrations work will Caption: Centre pictured Mrs Angela Selkirk, Head Teacher, Auldearn Primary, with nursery pupils Arthur and Flynn proceed towards a formal hand over to Councillor Lumsden added: continue to support the Aberdeen City Council New facilities the development of at Seaton,Tullos and Quarryhill were “It’s great to see more also completed the turn of the year. of our refurbished inspiring places for and new nurseries our communities to Head teacher and New facilities at Tullos and Quarryhill becoming ready for were also completed the turn of the use. Our brand-new live, work and learn.” Tillydrone Exterior year. modern nurseries children cut ribbon on demonstrate our The City Council’s £23 million Despite the impact of the coronavirus commitment to building programme will see 27 lockdown and the interruptions enhanced Early Learning and Childcare new or upgraded local authority Auldearn's new £1.1m caused by local and national Tier 4 hours and families and staff will soon be nurseries across the city to cater lockdowns, the new builds across the able to see for themselves the fantastic for the enhanced provision including city comprising Aberdeen City Council’s new facilities we are providing.” two new innovative outdoor learning early learning facility £23 million investment project have settings at Hazlehead Park and made good progress. Gordon Milne, Regional Managing Duthie Park. Director for Robertson Construction Auldearn Primary Head Teacher of School Care for our primary aged Council Co Leaders Councillor Jenny Eastern, said: All local authorities were asked Angela Selkirk has officially children. Laing and Councillor Douglas Lumsden to develop an Early Learning and received the keys to the school’s expressed their delight with the “As the delivery partner of choice Childcare delivery plan to guide fantastic new £1.1m early “This will make a huge difference to progress being made. for Aberdeen City Council’s Early expansion plans supporting the learning facility. our families. Our children now have Years programme, we could not be increased in hours to 1140 per child a purpose built, quality learning Councillor Laing said: prouder of the first-class facilities in August 2021 from the current The school’s new Early Learning environment with excellent indoor Northfield Playroom the Council is adding to its education 600 hours. The Aberdeen City & Childcare (ELC) building was and outdoor space giving more “It’s great to see our portfolio. This project exemplifies Council plan highlights a focus on recently handed over to Highland opportunities to explore, investigate huge investment collaboration between customer and the provision of outdoor learning to Council by contractors Morgan and learn.” in our children’s contractor, and we continue to make support wellbeing, on accessibility Sindall. The nursery will cater for futures reaching excellent progress in the delivery of to increase uptake, on delivery of 48 children. Chair of Highland Council’s fruition with more the remaining facilities which are family learning to fully capitalise on Education Committee, Councillor new nursery sites, currently on-site or in the design phase. the expansion programme, and on Mrs Selkirk was joined by Arthur John Finlayson, said: each with first class “We look forward to hearing about the provision of a ‘localised offer’ to and Flynn, the eldest and youngest facilities, either the pupil’s response to the recently meet the needs of families within children from the nursery to help “It is great to see another capital being completed or completed facilities, and to continuing each community. cut the ribbon. project that supports ELC expansion nearing competition. Each of these to play our part in assisting the Council and Out of School Care, open in facilities also support outdoor learning achieve its extended Early Years Mrs Selkirk said: the Highlands and I am sure the which has always been an important Learning and Childcare hours.” whole Auldearn community will be objective of entire building programme. “Our new provision will allow us to delighted, that their new facility is “It is a testament to the work of our Managing Director at Halliday Fraser deliver 1140 hours of Early Learning now open to further support the Kingsfor Exterior teams and our contractors that work Munro, David Halliday added: and Childcare and also provide Out work of the school and community."

18 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 19 ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT Improving Biodiversity in South Ayrshire

South Ayrshire Council are introducing a new pilot to develop wildflower meadows in South Ayrshire, reinforcing their commitment to improving biodiversity in the area.

Annual and perennial meadows, we’re encouraging the development alongside areas with an altered grass of wildflower meadows to create a cutting regime, will feature across friendlier environment for plants and eight sites and will help to create a wildlife.” more diverse habitat for wildlife and More time to help guide planning plants. The pilot sites will be in a variety “We want to make South Ayrshire a of locations including parks, general better place to live, and promoting a public space and housing areas. sustainable and green environment protections for sites of historical value is a key part of our future. I’m Interest in wildflower meadows has looking forward to seeing how increased over the last year as normal these meadows develop over the next Consultation has been extended to allow people additional time to comment on planning maintenance was not possible during few months.” protections for important areas of East Dunbartonshire. periods of lockdown, and vast amounts of diverse plant material were able to Representations can now be Councillor Vaughan Moody, Joint represented before a report is prepared flourish. made on the Historic Environment Leader of the Council, said, and brought back to Council.” Designations Review up to 31 May The sites will be prepared towards the “We want to make South 2021. Visit www.eastdunbarton.gov. “The aim of the Visit www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/ end of this month, and Park Rangers uk/historicenvironmentreview to get Historic Environment historicenvironmentreview to access will keep a close eye on each one to Ayrshire a better place involved. Designations Review background information and reports, evaluate which area has the greatest to live, and promoting a is to ensure that a and provide comments. The Council is biodiversity benefit. The consultation is part of the consistent and robust encouraging the use of a representation sustainable and green process towards adopting a new Local evidence base is in form - available via the website - which Councillor Ian Cochrane, South Development Plan 2 (LDP2) - which place, complementing has been specifically created for the Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder environment is a key part will guide the future use of land in the Proposed Local Development consultation. However, representations for Environment said: of our future. I’m looking East Dunbartonshire. Further planning Plan 2. It’s vital we capture as much submitted in other formats, such as guidance on the historic environment feedback as possible to ensure the e-mail and letter, will also be accepted. “Biodiversity is an forward to seeing how will be published following this right protections are in place for the integral part of our these meadows develop technical review. right areas - helping us to continue action to address the to safeguard local historical and impact of climate over the next few People are being given the opportunity environmental assets for years to change on our to access - and comment on - reports come.” Useful Links native species. I’m months.” covering Conservation Area Boundaries really pleased that and Townscape Protection Areas, Councillor Andrew Polson, Joint E-mail development.plan@ and Local Gardens and Designed Leader of the Council, added, eastdunbarton.gov.uk or call Landscapes. There are also appraisals 0300 123 4510 (9am-5pm, Mon of existing Conservation Areas. “Many thanks to to Fri) for further information. everyone who has As well as local residents, the Council already been in touch www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/ is engaging with Historic Environment as regards the ongoing historicenvironmentreview Scotland, local groups, community Historic Environment to get involved, access background councils and businesses. Online Designations Review information and reports, and meetings were held in January and a consultation. The provide comments. number of representations have been deadline has been extended to 31 received. May 2021 to allow all views to be

20 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 21 ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT Highland Council welcomes Land Use Partnership pilots in region

The Highland Council’s Chair wider establishment of Partnerships. area and also the Cairngorms National of Economy and Infrastructure And that: “The Partnerships will Park. We look forward to working Committee and Chair of help national and local government, with the Scottish Government to fully communities, land owners and understand the scope of the pilot as a Climate Change Working stakeholders work together to find means for moving Highland towards Group, Councillor Trish ways to optimise land use in a fair an exemplar Carbon Action region in Scottish Water Industry the Most Robertson has welcomed the and inclusive way – meeting local and partnership with our communities.” Scottish Government’s recent national objectives and supporting the journey to net zero.” announcement that the Highland The Regional Land Use Trusted, Says Which? Survey Council area will be 1 of 5 Councillor Trish Robertson, welcomed Partnerships will be piloted in: areas being piloted as Regional the announcement, saying: • Cairngorms National Park The water industry in Scotland is the most trusted sector with customers, according to re- Land Use Partnerships to help search by respected consumer rights body Which? develop an approach to land use “We are very pleased • Highland Council in support of Scotland’s green that the Scottish It has published its Consumers in is benevolence, which means wanting “Every day, Scottish Water delivers 1.44 Government has • Loch Lomond and the Scotland 2021 report, which collates to do good for the consumer aside billion litres of clear, fresh drinking recovery and transition to net- recognised the Trossachs National Park survey data on the views of people, and from being motivated by profit. It may water and removes 983 million litres of zero. scale of the size of the research found a greater proportion be that the regulatory framework in waste water, which it treats, recovers • North East Region the Highland area – of trust in the water industry in Scotland which Scottish Water operates as a resources from, and returns safely to (Aberdeenshire and A Scottish Government announcement approximately the size than in the rest of the UK. statutory corporation has led to greater the environment. Its services support Aberdeen City Councils) said that they “…will work with the of Belgium – and allocated 2 of the 5 consumer trust.” 2.56 million households and 152, 806 pilot groups to test approaches to pilot partnerships within The Highland •  South of Scotland (Dumfries Water came out as the most trusted business premises across Scotland. partnership governance that best suit Council area. We are delighted that The and Galloway and Scottish industry, with 60% of Scottish people The Which? survey findings follow the local situation and priorities. This Highland Council area is to become a Borders Councils) saying they trusted their water success for Scottish Water earlier “This Which? survey builds on the will help inform future decisions on Regional Land Use Partnership pilot suppliers to act in their best interests. this year in the Institute of Customer achievement of some of our best ever Service survey, called the UK Customer customer service results recently. Over This year’s Scottish figure compared Satisfaction Index (CSI), which is the the past ten years domestic water with 49% of people in the rest of the main tool that we use to benchmark and waste water charges have been UK saying they trusted their water how well our customers think we are reduced by 10% in real terms and they suppliers to act in their best interests. doing when they compare us with other are now among the lowest in Great companies that they receive services Britain while compliance with strict Which? said in its report: “We asked from. drinking water quality standards is at consumers how much they trust 10 record levels. of the largest industries that they We saw customer satisfaction increase interact with regularly and found that in the national survey – by just over 2 “We are proud to be one of the UK’s levels of trust vary dramatically across points and Scottish Water came out as top performing water companies industries. 66% of Scottish consumers the top water company in the UK, with and are determined to improve our said that they trust the water industry the ICS now recognising us as one of performance even further.” quite a lot or a great deal, whilst just the top 50 service providers in the UK 6% said they don’t trust it very much - a first for Scottish Water. or at all, giving a net trust value of +60 percentage points. Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “ “The only industry for which consumer trust is higher in Scotland is the water I’m delighted that, once again, sector, as the average for the UK is Scotland’s water sector, which includes brought down by lower trust in England. Scottish Water and our partners and suppliers, has been recognised by “It is known that one factor associated Which? as being the most trusted with greater levels of trustworthiness sector by Scottish consumers.

22 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 23 SOCIAL CARE North Sutherland Coast Redesign: Steering Group hears positive way forward for a new care facility in Tongue

Members of the steering group behind NHS Highland’s North Area Manager plans to provide enhanced care Michelle Johnstone said: provision to serve the North Coast Sutherland area recently heard positive “This is a positive step news regarding the provision of a new care facility in Tongue. Officers from forward and will enable NHS Highland, The Highland Council and representatives from Wildland progression with the care provided an update on progress on hub for the North Coast SIGN UP FOR the project, following the decision OUR LATEST by the Highland Council to provide providing health and social capital funding of £5m within its capital NEWS AND UPDATES programme for the project. care services for the EMAILED FREE TO YOUR INBOX Local Councillor Linda Munro, Chair of community.” the Council’s Health, Social Care and Subscribe at: Wellbeing Committee said: Wildland CEO Tim Kirkwood added: http://bit.ly/CI-subscribe “I am delighted that “We have worked positively with both this transformational NHS Highland and Highland Council project has reached a to bring forward a proposal for a Care significant milestone Home that everyone can be proud of. with capital funding It is great to reach such an important now allocated by milestone. We look forward to playing the Council, and our part in realising the healthcare hub Do you use a discussions moving forward between ambition as soon as possible, our aim the Council, NHSH and Wildland to is to make it the best it can possibly be allow a final position to be reached on whilst capturing such “added value” care service? the delivery model for the new facility. the development can bring as a whole.” This is a much welcomed and critical development for the communities of The Care Inspectorate regulates and inspects care services. the North Coast.” We publish inspection reports that tell you what we found. We can tell you more about your service and the kind of care you have a right to expect.

We investigate complaints about care. If a service isn’t good enough, we can act to make sure it improves.

Find out more about us and the care services you use. Visit careinspectorate.com 24 or call 0345 600 9527 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 25 SOCIAL CARE SOCIAL CARE Radical changes needed to deliver primary care fit for the 21st century, says Holyrood Committee

A radical revision of primary care is essential to ensure the next generation of citizens receive the care they need, according to the Scottish Parliament’s Health and Sport Committee. In a report published recently, the “It is clear that when it comes to and mainstreamed, but for this to be Committee say the traditional 9-5, 5 primary care the status quo is no a success it goes beyond just the health days a week service must become a longer an option. Existing ways of service. They identify the importance thing of the past, replaced with a new delivering care are not only financially of local communities in delivering Current Social Care model model shaped around users’ needs. unsustainable but have failed to keep good health outcomes and say there They urge the health service to fully pace with modern life. is a clear desire amongst the public embrace technology, enabling better for connected communities, with data sharing and monitoring, to deliver spaces that give people opportunities unsustainable a 21st century system fit for patients. “We need to radically rethink to become active and socialise, and to connect to the local natural A Health and Sport Committee report into the future of social care has said those delivering The Committee’s report is the primary care so that we can environment. culmination of a two-year inquiry and receiving care must be at the heart of social care reform with the current model described ensure our citizens receive into the future of primary care. The For further information on this as unsustainable. innovative inquiry was centred around the best possible care for inquiry please contact David members of the public with their views Cullum, Clerk to the Health and The Committee say a national The Committee describe the current “We are grateful to all of those from shaping the inquiry. The first phase generations to come. Sport Committee – conversation on the future of social model of crisis driven, reactive care as across the care sector who provided of the inquiry, published in July 2019, [email protected] care is needed and that the myriad unsustainable and say more must be evidence to our inquiry and gave their revealed the public’s desire and support “We must move away from the issues facing staff must be addressed done to shift the focus to a preventative keen insight into how it is experienced for a transformation in how services are automatic provision of prescriptions in the development of any new system. model, involving local communities in in Scotland. accessed and delivered. and towards social prescribing. The Committee’s report says the the future planning of health and social There must be widespread adoption problems faced by the care sector have care services. The inquiry has highlighted the growing of a preventative model of delivering been compounded by the COVID-19 “I’d like to put on record costs and demands on the health care and the health service must fully pandemic. Lewis Macdonald MSP, Convener of service due to an ageing population and embrace new technology.” the Health and Sport Committee, said: our thanks to the tireless their more complex health needs, as The Committee express concern over well as an obesity epidemic and stark “A fundamental shift is also required in the lack of value placed on social care “Throughout this inquiry the message and passionate workforce, health inequalities in Scotland’s most how the public and health professionals and social care staff, in stark contrast we have been given from those receiving both paid and unpaid, deprived areas. view General Practice. Instead of to NHS staff. The report emphasises care, and from paid and unpaid carers, GPs being seen as the provider of the ongoing difficulty the sector faces is that they have not felt listened to and who undoubtedly deserve The Committee’s report questions the all services, a new approach should in attracting and retaining staff; citing have been undervalued. That’s why it Government’s commitment to recruit be adopted where other health a lack of training and staff development is essential that they are at the centre better.” at least 800 more GPs by 2030. They professionals, who are often better opportunities, alongside low pay as the of much needed reform of the social say the emphasis should instead be placed and equipped to help and key reasons for this. care system. placed on committing to appropriate support people can do so.” In 2019, the Committee agreed to recruitment of professional staff He added: “Our inquiry has been A number of problems with the current “There is no doubt the current model undertake an inquiry into the future across multi-disciplinary teams driven by hearing directly from the care model are highlighted by the of care is unsustainable, with some of of social care. Following this initial (MDTs), including both GPs and other public about the primary care services Committee including the continued the issues facing the sector exposed evidence gathering, their scrutiny of professions, which can deliver the they want, need and require and the lack of progress on health and social by the pandemic. We want to see a social care and support required to intended benefits to primary care as Committee wants to thank all who took care integration. They also recommend nationwide conversation held into be put on hold due to the COVID-19 a whole. part in our public forums and shared the Scottish Government seek the future of social care and we hope pandemic. their views.” alternative models of commissioning that the findings of our report, and Speaking as the report was published, and procurement with the current ones the independent review, can help in Committee Convener Lewis Macdonald The Committee say a focus on described as ‘counter-intuitive’. shaping this future. MSP said: prevention needs to be prioritised

26 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 27 HEALTH

Councillor Diane Docherty, Convener of Housing and Communities, said:

“I am so pleased to hear that Improving the Cancer Journey has helped so many of our residents. Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be an extremely traumatic experience and the long term effects of treatment often have a huge impact on a person’s health, wellbeing and independence. The aim of this service is to step in and support any person going through this, ensuring they know exactly what help they are entitled to, so that coping with the non- medical effects of the illness is slightly West Dunbartonshire ICJ easier.” Every cancer patient in the area is advised of the service by letter within supports 300 residents six weeks of receiving their diagnosis. If they want to accept support, their diagnosed with cancer needs and concerns are discussed before a care plan to support them and A pioneering service for people affected by cancer in West their family is designed. Dunbartonshire has supported more than 300 people in its The team have adapted to allow them first year. to continue operating and providing support during the pandemic, Macmillan Improving the Cancer All of the items have been provided to temporarily moving the service to an Journey (ICJ), which is a partnership West Dunbartonshire residents free of online and telephone consultation and between West Dunbartonshire Council charge through the Macmillan Warm referral. and Macmillan Cancer Support, at Home scheme. offers all newly-diagnosed adults the Councillor Caroline McAllister, opportunity to meet with a dedicated In addition, the service has made Vice Convener of Housing and support worker on a one-to-one basis. numerous referrals to Occupational Communities, added: Therapy to ensure people are allocated The worker will then help the patient any item that will support them through “Advances in treatment for cancer access a wide range of support, from their cancer journey, including grab mean more people than ever are benefits advice and emotional support rails, chair lifts, new steps and new surviving this illness – but that means to help at home or with other practical showers. it’s vital they are supported for as long needs. as they need. Counselling and clinical psychology As well as supporting over 300 people referrals have also been made to “While the face-to-face element of the who have been diagnosed with cancer, help people receive the psychological service is currently unavailable due to the team has generated £427,000 in support they need following their the pandemic, the team has gone to benefit entitlement for service users, diagnosis. great lengths to continue to ensure by supporting them to navigate and that any person who receives a cancer understand what they are entitled to. In partnership with West diagnosis in West Dunbartonshire and Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust’s Live wants some additional support can In addition, the team has secured Active Programme, the ICJ team reach out and get that easily.” practical items for vulnerable service have also provided opportunities to users including two new central help service users improve physical For more information or to request heating systems, three new boilers fitness, as well as build friendships support from ICJ, please visit: and 17 new white goods for residents and resilience. www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/jobs- who required them due to changes in and-training/working4u/money- their circumstances. advice/cancer-journey-service/ scottish local authority news 29 HEALTH Highland’s Lead Nurse accepted into QNI Scotland programme

Highland Council’s Lead Nurse for Jane Park, Head of Service (Health), Looked After and Care Experienced The Promise sets out a vision and Highland Council, said: “Helen is an Children has been accepted for the blueprint for transformational experienced nurse who served the Queens nursing programme and is change. Skye community, as a school nurse, for working towards the prestigious many years and more recently brought At its heart are five foundations: her expertise and skills to support the Queen’s Nurse Award. health of care experienced children Helen Gilpin was nominated, and • Voice: Children must be and young people across Highland. As through a rigorous selection and meaningfully heard and a service we are incredibly proud of interview process, has been accepted listened to in all decisions Helen’s contribution in Highland and onto the Queens Nursing Institute for about their care. her acceptance to the QNIS programme Scotland Programme. is very well deserved.” • Family: Where children are This institute is the most prestigious safe in their families and feel Chair of Highland Council's Education nursing institute in the UK and was loved, they must stay. Committee, Councillor John Finlayson, established by Queen Victoria in the said: "I am delighted to hear that Helen late 1800’s. • Care: Where living with their has been selected for this opportunity family is not possible, children and as I know her from my days as Very few nurses are accepted onto the must stay with their brothers a Head Teacher, when she was both programme and Helen is the only nurse and sisters when safe to do so. a parent at my school and also our from across Highland and Argyle and school nurse. Bute. • People: The children that Scotland cares for must be "I can confirm she truly deserves this The programme lasts a year and actively supported to develop opportunity for the work she has done she has chosen to present and study relationships with people both as a school nurse and as the her knowledge on improving health in the workforce and wider Lead Nurse for Looked After Children outcomes for care experienced children community. and Care Experienced Young people, and young people. in Highland in recent years. I look • Scaffolding: Children, families forward to hearing from Helen about Chair of Highland Council’s Health, and the workforce must be this opportunity and also reading the Social Care and Wellbeing Committee, supported by a system that results of her studies at a later date.” Councillor Linda Munro said: “On is there when needed. The behalf of the Committee I’d like to scaffolding of help, support More info around going through the wish Helen well on her studies and and accountability must be programme and being a Queen’s Nurse this acknowledges some of the expert ready and responsive when can be found at www.qnis.org.uk resource we have in Highland to support it is required. outcomes for Care Experienced Young People and Children and comes at a good time when we are looking to move forward with delivering on The Promise.”

30 scottish local authority news A Symptom Journal for Chronic Pain & Conditions What you symjo Instead of “You’ll be fine”try “I’m here for you” TRACK DAILY should and When I am told that I will be fine, it stirs a bit of anger in me SYMPTOMS because the thought in my head is, how can you possibly know that I’ll be fine. You can’t promise a good future but you can shouldn’t say promise to be there for your loved ones APPOINTMENT DIARY & NOTES Instead of “It’ll get better” try “We to someone can make things better” This is very similar to the above, they essentially mean the same thing but being proactive and making immediate changes MEDICATIONS when someone’s hurting can help. Pick up some ice cream and with a comfort loved ones, don’t pawn off their feelings.

mental Instead of “You need to move on” AND MORE! try “How can we make things easier, illness now?” A big thing I preach is to not try to move on because why would you? We should be allowed to miss our past or a person and instead focus on adjusting to a new life which can be hard. Finding ways to make this easier rather than being impatient To find out more or to order your copy visit symjo.co.uk with a person’s grief is so important.

Instead of “You’re overreacting” try Fostering Every day, Barnardo’s “Your feelings are valid” This is very important. When a person is hurting, especially if foster carers transform they have a mental illness, you need to remember they are not lives by showing their overreacting. You cannot imagine what’s going on in their head and why. Remember they are hurting, their wound isn’t visible belief in the young people but it is very real and valid. they care for. To help and support our foster Instead of “Calm down” try “We will carers we provide comprehensive training, access to therapists, and get through this” 24 hour support from our skilled by Charlotte Underwood, Many people mean well when they tell someone to calm down, social workers. though it can sound very half-hearted. When you tell someone to calm down it isn’t really listening to them. Help them get mental health blogger. through their panic attack and give them time to do so, there is no rush in recovery. Words are very important when it comes to mental health, how we use them can dramatically impact someone’s mood and without realizing it, we can become a trigger to a relapse. Before I understood mental health and before I knew I was Instead of “Don’t worry” try “I’m suffering, I was guilty of responding with quick-fire phrases here and I’m listening” to calm someone down. The kind that we are taught and told To learn more about fostering so often that it becomes almost robotic. It’s because of this, Don’t worry is the worst thing to say to someone who has anxiety. with Barnardo’s Scotland and sometimes telling someone that “They’ll be ok” can sound an Some people cannot help but worry and get nervous about even how to apply contact our friendly awful lot like “I don’t care, please shut up” when you are hurting. simple things. To them, they are trying to protect themselves team today. and that shouldn’t be something negative. Instead of pushing I think the best way to help someone is to listen to them, to them away, listen to them and help them fight that fear. Call 0845 894 9501 or visit: really let them know they matter and adapting our words for these situations can be a great thing. So, I’ve listed the typical barnardos.org.uk/fostering responses that I have had when I’ve been talking about my Registered Charity No. 216250 and SC037605 feelings and what I wish I was told instead.

38 ROADS & TRANSPORT ROADS & TRANSPORT

Ravenscraig Connections New Greenock cycle route on track all set to improve Work has started on a new dedicated cycle lane along a busy Greenock route as part of a near £600,000 package of improvements to encourage active travel. Proposals for new cycling and walking routes through Raven- scraig are being published for the public to give their views. The bike trail will run from Container “There will be some short-term two-metre distance from others, in line Way in the town centre along to Battery disruption while work on the cycle route with the ongoing safety restrictions. North Lanarkshire Council are working and leisure, we want the area to be Park. takes place but every effort has been The existing shared foot and cycle path with Sustrans and Ravenscraig Limited accessible for everyone for walking, made to minimise any inconvenience. between Battery Park to the Esplanade to improve connections between cycling and wheeling,” said Jonathan Inverclyde Council started work recently will be widened with bolt-down kerbs Ravenscraig and neighbouring Speed, Senior Project Manager at and it will be carried out in phases until “I’d like to thank people in advance and bollards installed to create a communities and to expand the active North Lanarkshire Council. April, with traffic management in place for their patience and understanding dedicated cycling lane. travel network. throughout. and I’m sure the cycle path will be “These active travel routes will provide something cyclists and walkers alike It will initially be a temporary extension direct, off-road links from the south The cycle lane is one of the first projects will feel the benefits of when it is but may be made retained depending The two key elements of the to the facilities within Ravenscraig, as being delivered by the local authority completed in the spring just in time on usage numbers. project are: well as connecting to a wider network after it successfully bid for £585k of for the start of, hopefully, much better of paths to Motherwell, Wishaw and funding from the national ‘Spaces for weather in which to enjoy the great Similar changes will be introduced • a south-north link to connect Carfin. People’ initiative, which is funded by outdoors.” along the Esplanade itself, widening Craigneuk, via “The Castings” the Scottish Government and delivered the existing cycle lane, and on Campbell housing development, off “The project is an important part of through charity Sustrans Scotland. The ‘Spaces for People’ scheme is Street the footway will be widened to Meadowhead Road, with the the Ravenscraig masterplan, and we aimed at improving walking and cycling accommodate the new bike path. Regional Sports Facility (RSF) would like to hear from as many people Councillor Michael McCormick, infrastructure to assist with physical and new public park, and as possible during our consultation to Inverclyde Council’s convener of distancing in light of the coronavirus These will be permanent measures ensure the proposals meet the need environment and regeneration, said: pandemic. with no loss of parking. • an east-west link to connect of residents.” Craigneuk, via “The Castings” “As horrible as Other local projects are being The foot/cycle path from Brougham housing development, to The project is being funded by Transport the pandemic has developed by the council taking into Street to Laird Street and Grey Place New College Lanarkshire Scotland and Sustrans, through their been, one of the account feedback provided by residents will be widened with bolt-down kerbs Motherwell Campus. ‘Places for Everyone’ programme. few positives to take during its ‘Safe Streets Save Lives’ and bollards installed to create a from it has been consultation last year. dedicated cycling lane. It’s proposed the paths will have Feedback from the consultation will the huge surge lighting, seating, landscaping with inform the final plans for the project, in the number of A common theme identified was for This will be temporary but could also wildflower areas and woodland then the council will apply for planning people getting out clearly defined cycle routes to separate be retained depending on usage levels. planting, play features along the route, permission. Subject to the necessary and about walking, cyclists and pedestrians. fencing and CCTV where possible. approvals and securing funding, it is cycling, wheeling and re-discovering anticipated work to construct the first the beauty we have here on our The dedicated cycle lane will also allow For more information email: “As the Ravenscraig site develops with of the two active travel routes would doorstep in Inverclyde. additional space for pedestrians to [email protected] new housing, business, retail, schools start later this year. walk on the footways whilst keeping a

34 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 35 ROADS & TRANSPORT ROADS & TRANSPORT

Part of The Highland Council response to the pandemic is the Spaces for People project. This work aims at Council confirms distribution making streets safe and convenient for essential workers to get to their workplaces by walking, wheeling or of additional £20M investment cycling, and ensuring enough space is available for people to physically distance in high footfall places. Emerging evidence from this work for roads infrastructure supports the case for a transition to more sustainable transport. It highlights Members at a recent meeting of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure that there is a real opportunity to create Committee have agreed the distribution of an additional £20M for the road maintenance a fairer, healthier transport network that supports a range of ways of moving programme and also agreed to continue with the current distribution method for the around, beyond the motor vehicle. £7.2M base allocation.

Sjoerd Tel, Infrastructure Co-ordinator A budget of £3.7M per annum will be support any potential funding bids As for Sustrans Scotland highlights: The Committee have endorsed allocated to strategic road maintenance for the £7.2M base allocation - £5.2M five categories of investment to schemes with the aim to target some of will be distributed between the Areas “We are making 20 minute allocate the additional £20M: the larger, more costly schemes, where for road resurfacing and surface The review of Inner Moray Firth Local neighbourhoods basis for significant investment may be required dressing works with £650K allocated Development Plan is now underway #lockdownrecovery. 20 minute • Investment in the road to improve the existing road network, for bridge maintenance, £500K for and gives the opportunity to reflect and neighbourhoods make it easy, quick network at a strategic level or towards strategic projects which match funding to support bids made identify the best ways of tackling issues and convenient to travel by active tie in with investment from developer under the Strategic Timber Transport of sustainable transport. modes or public transport first and • Investment in the road contributions and potential match Schemes, and £850K for schemes reach the shops, destinations and network at an area level funding for improvements. involving road markings, signage, Indeed, Transport is highlighted in the community facilities that you need to safety fencing, winter drainage and Inner Moray Firth Local Development on a day-to-day basis. This helps to • Investment in the road A budget of £3.6M per annum will be footways across all geographic areas. Plan Main Issues Report as being one reduce dependence on cars, and helps network at a ward level distributed across the Operational of the major contributors of greenhouse to improve the quality of important Areas using the same historic The Highland Council has the longest gas emissions in the region, yet most places, like town and city centres, and • Investment in specialised road methodology which utilises the road road network in the UK with 4,000 miles trips are so short they could be taken therefore increase footfall, economic maintenance vehicles/plant condition survey results (SRMCS). Area of local roads, 1,000 miles of footpaths Public asked to in more sustainable ways, such as by vibrancy and sustainability. Road Managers will consult Members and 1,400 bridges spanning a region bus, bike or walking. • Investment in Active Travel on their proposals for the next two covering one third of Scotland. have their say As we look to tackle the effects of years. Neil Macrae, Partnership Manager the pandemic on our town and city Chair Councillor Trish Robertson said: on sustainable at HITRANS considers that “the centres, particularly in the retail An allocation of £100,000 per annum widespread restrictions on people’s sector, the evidence points towards will be allocated to each council ward. “The increased ability to move around has limited a transformation centred on making Projects will be at the discretion of spending on roads transport as the geographical size of our world ­these places attractive destinations ward Members and decisions will infrastructure but has simultaneously awoken our for people. This means footfall can be reported to the relevant Area reflects our part of the Inner appreciation of local green and open increase and these important cultural Committees for approval in line with commitment to spaces. It has also shown us how and economic centres can become governance arrangements. invest as much as Moray Firth Local well, or not, these assets are linked ‘sticky places’. we can on improving by safe, convenient walking, wheeling £0.5M will be allocated, annually, our road network. Development and cycling routes. As well as this In Inverness, projects underway towards the purchase of specialised This is a high priority for us, our heightened awareness of the availability to deliver much-needed housing vehicles which will assist in the general communities and fundamental to of local places and spaces to take daily coupled with the Victorian Market and maintenance of the road network. connectivity and the entire economy Plan review exercise, major decreases in traffic Inverness Castle redevelopments mean Wherever possible, fleet investment of the Highlands. volumes resulting from lockdowns there will soon be more people living will focus on delivering the most up to The Covid-19 Pandemic has have highlighted how much space is and moving around the city centre. date low carbon plant and machinery. “We have the largest network of roads impacted Highland communities in given over to roads, how much noise How we plan and grow our transport of any Local Authority and our staff unprecedented ways and continues and air pollution is reduced when cars network therefore needs to be carefully It is anticipated that there will be have to deal with some of the most to do so. Amongst the multiple volumes are reduced and how much considered to ensure where we live, further opportunities to promote severe weather in the UK so this adverse impacts of this global crisis safer our streets are for getting around, work and play is fit for purpose, fair, active travel initiatives over the next investment is very welcome and will are some important lessons for how for our children to play and for everyone healthy and supports a sustainable two years, so members agreed to an go some way to addressing work that we recover and look to the future. to enjoy.” pandemic recovery. allocation of £100,000 per annum to is needed.”

36 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 37 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The train station option could also evidence it provides for options for the travelling through Ayr station. We are include a business centre, retail, café, building’s future is testament to the committed to continue working with our restaurants etc. collaborative working by the Strategic local and national partners on providing Governance Group members. It also a long-term solution that maximises Unlike other options, public funding offers opportunities to enhance the the economic and social value of the for an improved train station could be economic prosperity of the town centre rail network for Ayrshire.” made available, although the study and communities south of Ayr.” makes it clear that this funding would The Strategic Governance Group specifically be for the new station. Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Scotland will now consider an option which route director, said: under private investment could see Councillor Peter Henderson, Leader the building turned into student of South Ayrshire Council said: “We are working closely with the accommodation, and the transport hub council, government and our rail options which could see elements of “I welcome this study, as it gives us industry partners to find a long- the existing building retained. viable options as we consider the future term solution for the former hotel. of this privately owned building. It’s at This feasibility study helps set out You can view the independent feasibility New study reviews such a prime location, a major gateway options for the building and will play study at into Ayr and it can’t be left to crumble an important part in driving change www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/station- away. Unfortunately the lack of input at this site.” building/ from the current owner makes any options for former progress a challenge, but I feel this James Ledgerwood, Head of Economic study gives us the impetus to find a Development & Communities for solution which will help transform the ScotRail said: “The publication of town.” this study represents a significant Ayr Station Hotel step forward in determining a future Lawrence Shackman, Head of Rail use for the building and the wider An independent feasibility study for the former Ayr Station Projects and Technical Services at locale. A future use must reflect the Hotel, has just been published. Transport Scotland added: importance of the location to Ayr and surrounding communities in the region. The study was commissioned by funding ranging from £10-£25m, “This feasibility study is a very positive The deterioration of the former station Transport Scotland on behalf of the this would be in excess of 200% and and important milestone in aiming to hotel has had a significant impact on Strategic Governance Group and upwards, of the final value of the resolve the issues surrounding the the quality of service and facilities Steering Group which also comprises property on completion. Ayr station hotel building. The strong ScotRail can offer our passengers South Ayrshire Council, Network Rail and ScotRail. It considers and reviews However, the study says that there various options for the privately owned has been private sector interest B listed building, ranging from full in recent weeks, and an option for restoration to demolition. the refurbishment of the building for student accommodation will be The study includes the results of a considered. public consultation which was carried out in August/September 2020. Public Other options which the study says opinion focused on issues such as should also be considered are those the importance of town centre living containing provision for a new train to boost vibrancy, the benefit of a station. Ayr station is critical to the new transport hub, and interest in economy of the town and is integral conserving the building. in any ambition for growth and regeneration. It explores a number of options which were expressed during the consultation Prior to the pandemic, the station such as turning the building into private was used by over 1.5 million people, apartments, social housing, office making over 5 million journeys a year. accommodation and even retaining The study says there is undoubtedly the majority of the building as a hotel. demand for an improved and expanded A number of these options have been station with better connections to other ruled out in the study as they would transportation types such as buses, require significant private or public cars and bicycles. Photo © Aaron Bradley (cc-by-sa/2.0)

38 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 39 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Councillors award over BiFab £137,000 Inverness Acquisition by Common Good funds InfraStrata The Comhairle strategy during for local projects the administration process was to seek an outcome that delivered Three organisations have been awarded a total year-round economic activity with long term sustainable employment £137,240 of Inverness Common Good funds by City and where the anchor tenant has of Inverness Area Committee, for local projects to freedom to market Arnish Yard aid community well-being and economic recovery as a distinct facility and primary of Inverness. location for its operations. It is too early to judge whether the Inverness BID has been awarded This project will create a community acquisition by InfraStrata plc Town Centre Funding project £91,113 for partnership working orchard around and within the with the local authority and other perimeter of Inverness Botanic delivers on these aspirations. organisations for providing floral Gardens by planting a mix of agreed for Nairn displays in Inverness (£61,100); Scottish heritage apple, plum and Councillor Donald Crichton, Chairman delivering the multi-agency pear trees. of Sustainable Development said, ‘Operation Respect’ programme Highland Councillors at the Nairnshire Committee today have unanimously agreed to award (£9,113), Inverness Gull Project Apples for All will be maintained “It is essential that Nairn BID a total of £28,052 Scottish Government Town Centre funding to deliver projects in (£11,200) and Inverness Community and developed by Inverness history does not Safety Partnership (£9,700). Botanic Gardens, The Grow Project repeat itself and that Nairn town centre that will help create much-needed economic stimulus for the area. (adults with learning disabilities) any new leaseholder To help the tourism sector recover volunteers, and community groups has a robust, costed Projects need to have started by the Councillor Tom Heggie, Chair of the work collaboratively with the Council in the area – Visit Inverness Loch and schools will be invited to get and sustainable end of March and grant spent by the Nairnshire Committee said: and other community groups which Ness was awarded £30,000 to involved. business plan. We end of September. bodes well as a potential model should enable a 2-year marketing project will be writing to the company to seek “Members welcome further Scottish Government funding commencing in March 2021 and early engagement and reassurances Councillors agreed to award Nairn BID Nairn BID’s aspira- become available again. Hopefully if running till February 2023. The The aim of the project is to around their strategy for the next the full allocation of town centre funding tions for this project more funds come on stream, Nairn will organisation will run a targeted promote local, sustainable period and to get an understanding of available for a range of environmental and we sincerely hope be able to respond swiftly with more virtual media marketing programme the proposals which they have outlined. improvements in the town centre. that the town centre ‘shovel-ready’ projects for application.” using social media, websites and a and healthy eating. Access funding investment range of digital platforms. to gardens for people who “It appears at this stage, that InfraStrata These improvements will include will also encourage Nairn BID’s proposal to councillors will have a license to occupy Arnish and the provision of new signage, notice further retail investment in the High was chosen for its eligibility and Key sites and visitor focal don’t have any and to provide that during the license period, they boards, interpretation boards, location Street to help secure its future. deliverability, within the timeframe, points within the city business healthy living opportunities will seek to negotiate terms of a new maps, street furniture, flower displays, and the BID’s ability to provide local improvement district area such and skills for the Grow Project lease with the landlords, Highlands and and decorative vinyl on shop windows “Nairn BID’s project will provide community benefit and economic as the Victorian Market, Falcon Islands Enterprise (HIE). HIE should be (situated at prominent locations on the boosters as quickly as possible. Square, and Eastgate Centre will members, local young people clear that they will only grant a lease High Street). a much-needed boost to the be included, along with key tourism if InfraStrata can evidence a robust and hospitality businesses that will and community volunteers. business plan that demonstrates that The aim of the project is to improve local morale and wellbeing of impact the economic recovery of there will be year-round economic footfall in the town centre by improving Nairn town centre and will also Inverness. In addition to planting and garden activity with long term sustainable the aesthetic appearance of the area to maintenance of the orchard the employment at Arnish. We will be help make it more appealing for visitors provide much needed work for High Life Highland’s Inverness purchase of an apple press will seeking engagement with HIE to see and the local community. In addition, local businesses. Botanic Gardens were also awarded facilitate seasonal activities such as if we can develop a collective position the project aims to promote “buy local” £16,127 towards their innovative community juice-making sessions. around the headlines of that lease”. to support local businesses to thrive “I am very pleased with the response “Apples for All - Ubhlan dha na and grow. from Nairn BID and their ability to h-uile” project at Bught Apple Park.

40 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 41 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The core overarching aims of the Town Centre Funding projects agreed for Spotlight on Deal remain to: • help to rebalance the Badenoch and Strathspey communities population through the aim of attracting and/or retaining an Highland Councillors at the further physical improvements to the additional 1,500 young people Badenoch and Strathspey Area community hub including a new front Councillor Bill in the 18-29 age group; Committee have unanimously door and 8 replacement windows. Lobban, Chair City Region of the Badenoch approved 7 projects that will be • create 1,125 direct jobs offered a total £111,724 Scottish Gynack Gardens, Kingussie - £10,350 and Strathspey with a further 2,200 jobs in to Kingussie Community Development Area Committee Government Town Centre funding construction; Company for further environmental said: to help deliver economic stimulus improvements to the garden. Proposed • help to upskill the labour in the eligible settlements of works consist of: new bench seating, “I am absolutely delighted that Deal progress market to move to a high wage Aviemore, Grantown-on-Spey, extension and planter; power supply for my fellow Members have agreed high skill economy adding an Kingussie and Newtonmore. Christmas tree; new fencing; relocation to these Town Centre funded Members of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure extra £100m pa to the regional of the roe deer sculpture to beside the projects across our area in Committee have welcomed the opportunity to review progress economy; Projects need to have started by river bank; mature flowering specimen Aviemore, Grantown-on-Spey, of the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal which continues the end of March and grant spent for North end (bus stop); two new all Kingussie and Newtonmore. • deliver 6,000 homes over a by the end of September. ability picnic benches; Spring woodland The applications are all from to play a pivotal role in delivering significant investment through 20-year period, of which 1,600 bulbs provided for the Primary school groups within the heart of our a variety of ground-breaking projects. will be affordable; and Councillors today agreed that the to plant; installation of additional safety communities and they will provide following 7 successful projects will barrier opposite school; maintenance a much-needed boost to local The Inverness and Highland City Region the Spirit of the Highlands initiative has • deliver private sector be offered Town Centre Funds: of wild flower meadow; and removal morale and will also provide deal is a joint initiative supported by been very positive with over 100 entries investment of £800m over a of the avenue of 10 old Cherry trees. much needed construction work up to £315m investment from the received so far. 20-year period in the region. for local businesses. UK and Scottish governments, The Aviemore Village Green – £29,300 to Market Stance Playing Field, Kingussie Highland Council, Highlands and The Dingwall Newton Room has Aviemore Community Enterprise for - £10,000 to Kingussie Camanachd Club “I am delighted with this Islands Enterprise and University of hosted its first pupils from Dingwall further hard landscaping works to the to assist in the upgrade of the Market the Highlands and Islands, aimed Academy and planning has started on After going through the progress report, village green including: re-surfacing Stance Playing Field. The project is to Scottish Government funding at stimulating sustainable regional the Inverness Newton Room at the UHI members of the Committee agreed the paths, access ramp, improving access fence the boundary, install floodlights, and should future funds economic growth over a 10-year period. campus. Annual Report for 2019/20 which will for all abilities, and new stone-built and do some ground works and grass The Deal is currently in year four. now be published. seating to make the area more seeding. become available again, I Construction work on the final phase of useable and create a more attractive urge local communities to Members were advised that good the West link project continues following Chair of the Economy and environment. Newtonmore War Memorial - £8,000 progress continues to be made despite the installation of the new canal Infrastructure Committee, to Newtonmore Business Association have projects shovel-ready some delays on specific projects, largely crossing bridge and associated road Councillor Trish Robertson said: Aviemore War Memorial - £24,504 to to improve accessibility to the War so that they can apply.” as a result of COVID. works. The original planned completed Legion Scotland (Aviemore Branch) Memorial by carrying out improvements date was December 2020, but due to the “We are now completing year four of the for environmental improvements to the paths. Planning permission has now been pandemic and the 3 months cessation ten-year City Region Deal and excellent to the War Memorial site including: granted for the FIT homes development of construction projects this has been progress is being made across a diverse groundworks, natural stone planters, in Nairn and work can commence to delayed to March 2021. range of projects as we aim to capitalise steps from main street to memorial, prepare for the building of 10 specially on the substantial opportunities and new paving, a Poppy sculpture, designed assisted homes to provide Members were advised that the investments. memorial poppy wreath stand and a accommodation for tenants with impact of Covid-19 is being felt with stand and electrics for Christmas tree. various medical needs that allows them some delays and issues arising from “As the Covid pandemic continues it is to be supported while maintaining their previous restrictions but a variety of having an impact on the City Region Deal Grantown Square - £7,570 to Grantown independence. mitigation measures were able to be projects, but all partners are working Initiative for the supply and installation put in. Although the current temporary hard to adapt to current constraints and of new electrical ducting and cabling Planning permission has also been level 4 has not materially affected finding new creative ways to deliver. to replace existing faulty network in granted for the Life Science Centre and the construction industry, there are I am sure that great progress will the Square. In turn this will stimulate invitations to tender have been issued. some issues around access to sites, continue to be made throughout these greater use of the space for outdoor obtaining materials and increased challenging times and we look forward events. Works to transform Inverness Castle safety measures which may affect to receiving more updates as projects into a flagship tourism attraction are timescales but every effort will be made move forward.” Caberfeidh Horizons, Kingussie - continuing at pace and participation in to get projects back on schedule. £22,000 to Caberfeidh Horizons for Image © Martin Briscoe

42 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 43 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Isle of Skye and Raasay Investment plan website and online survey AMCF Projects offer innovation and now live opportunity to businesses Two advanced manufacturing aerospace projects to support small to medium-enterprises A new website and online (SMEs) in the west of Scotland have officially launched, following investment from the survey have now ‘gone live’ Chair of the Isle of Skye and Raas- Chair of the Gaelic Committee and Advancing Manufacturing Challenge Fund (AMCF). to allow people in Skye and ay Area Committee, Councillor John Eilean a' Cheò Councillor Calum Raasay to air their views on Gordon, said: Munro, said: The Aerospace Digital Visualisation its sister project ADVS, the services of Visualisation Suite (ADVS) within our future investment and what Suite (ADVS) and Supply Chain SCA are available to eligible SMEs at Aeronautical Engineering Training “It is key that “The development of AeroSpace (SCA) aim to create no charge. Centre on our Ayr Campus. There they see are the priorities for communities have as an investment and transformational change in the has already been a significant level the area. much engagement into infrastructure plan aerospace and space sectors through Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the of interest and engagement with the this plan as possible, for Skye and Raasay opportunity and innovation. Both launch of both projects took place facility, which bodes well for the future. The Skye and Raasay Investment Plan as this will shape Skye provides many projects have been established virtually in early February 2021, under The ADVS is very much up and running webpage (https://www.highland.gov. and Raasay for years opportunities for following a successful bid to the the banner of Advancing Manufacturing and providing vital support to the uk/skyeraasay) will be the focal point to come and will also Gaelic language and AMCF by South Ayrshire Council (SAC), AeroSpace. Hosted by the Centre for Aerospace sector. I would encourage for people to get involved and share have the potential to cultural development. together with its partners Ayrshire Engineering Education & Development all SMEs to engage with the team information gathered so far. release funding which is so needed College, the University of Strathclyde (CeeD), the online event was well to maximise opportunities for their across our two islands. “Gaelic is an integral part of the lives of and Ayrshire Engineering Alliance, attended by industry experts and businesses.” Representatives from key groups many in this area. It has a large part to securing £2 million investment in ERDF representatives from academia, as across Skye and Raasay met on 28 "The input so far has been positive with play in our aspirations for sustainable and match funding from SAC. well as local government and SMEs. South Ayrshire Council is the Lead January 2021 to launch the process many stakeholders getting involved. tourism and many of the economic and Organisation for both projects. The of preparing the new Investment Plan The approach of everyone working infrastructure outcomes of the plan will The ADVS is based at the Aeronautical Councillor Siobhian Brown, South Steering Group is supported by for the area. together is working well and also help us sustain our Gaelic communities Engineering Training Centre at Ayrshire Ayrshire Portfolio Holder for Economy NMIS, with colleagues in the Faculty important going forward. I want to through employment and housing. College’s Ayr Campus. It offers SMEs and Culture, said: of Engineering in the University That workshop was attended by over encourage as many people as possible access to innovative Extended Reality of Strathclyde; Ayrshire College; 60 people who are actively involved in to have their say and to engage with “I’m delighted that Bòrd na Gàidhlig and (XR) technology, helping them enter “We are delighted Ayrshire Engineering Alliance; Scottish delivering improvements in the area this plan." Sabhal Mòr Ostaig were represented or expand their presence in the the Aerospace Manufacturing Advisory Service and and was aimed at gathering initial at the initial stakeholders’ event and aerospace sector. Using cutting edge Digital Visualisation Scottish Enterprise. The Advancing views on the issues which needed to they have an important part to play in XR - incorporating Virtual Reality (VR) Suite and Supply Manufacturing Challenge Fund is be addressed. influencing the future of Gaelic in Skye and Augmented Reality (AR) - and Chain AeroSpace a partnership between the Scottish Eilean a' Cheò Councillor John and Raasay.” digital visualisation, the ADVS helps projects are now Government, Scottish Enterprise, and The website and online survey will help Finlayson and Chair of the Highland companies to innovate, develop skills operational, Highlands and Islands Enterprise. prepare for future engagement events Council’s Education Committee, said: and improve productivity. The services offering a superb A full list of successful projects is that are scheduled to continue after of the ADVS are available to eligible resource to help companies innovate, available on the AMCF website. Total the lockdown, including Community “It is important we get SMEs at no charge. develop skills and improve productivity. investment is £15.8 million, with £8.3 Councils and local interest groups. as much feedback as Useful Links Together these projects will play a million from the European Regional possible as we look to The SCA project supports SMEs key role in strengthening Scotland’s Development Fund, £590,000 from The aim is to produce a Draft Investment move forward the Skye The Skye and Raasay Investment to improve their productivity manufacturing industry, while making the Scottish Government, and the Plan to the Skye and Raasay Area and Raasay Plan which Plan webpage and competitiveness through a significant contribution to Prestwick’s remainder in match-funding from the Committee in the spring. includes so many www.highland.gov.uk/skyeraasay the introduction of innovative aerospace sector and complementing chosen projects. ambitious projects, manufacturing technologies via the the Ayrshire Growth Deal.” People can visit the online survey at including school and Visit the online survey at Skye and National Manufacturing Institute Skye and Raasay Investment Plan early learning projects, which can Raasay Investment Plan Scotland (NMIS). It also works with Gavin Murray, Director of Curriculum For more information on the (https://www.consult.highland.gov. only be realised through partnership www.consult.highland.gov.uk/ Original Equipment Manufacturers at Ayrshire College said: ADVS and SCA, including details uk/kse/event/36021) working with key stakeholders and kse/event/36021 (OEMs) and Tier One suppliers to on how to get involved with communities.” identify supply chain opportunities for “Ayrshire College is thrilled to be either project, please visit SMEs to join the aerospace and space hosting, albeit virtually for the www.am-aerospace.co.uk sectors, or grow their contribution. Like time being, the Aerospace Digital

44 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 45 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Inverness Castle Landscaping transformation; proposals

Image Source: Minerals Local Development Plan Development Local Minerals Image Source: Front door of castle lodged

Landscaping proposals for the Local Development Plan “For over 40 years, these building revealed Inverness Castle development have now been lodged with The The front door of Inverness It includes checks for asbestos, Highland Council as part of prestigious awards have timber preservation and the building Castle – the original formal the statutory applications for nominated for prestigious structure. celebrated the excep- entrance – has been revealed the planned transformation for recently for the first time in The transformation of Inverness Inverness Castle to become a tional work undertaken almost 50 years, as part of the planning industry award Castle is supported by £15 million tourism gateway for the Highlands. by town planners. In transformation of the building Scottish Government and £3 million to create a gateway for Highland UK Government investment through The landscaping proposals show how The East Ayrshire Minerals Local Development Plan has been the middle of a global tourism. The former entrance the Inverness and Highland City the Castle grounds will become an named as a finalist in the category for Excellence in Plan pandemic, I believe they lobby in the Castle has also Region Deal. It will create a gateway integral part of the experience for people Making Practice at the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) been reopened to the large for Highland tourism, contributing visiting the attraction in years to come. ceremonial staircase behind, to reinvigoration of tourism across The designs, which remodel the castle Awards for Planning Excellence 2021. are more relevant than the area and providing much needed esplanade and external courtyards, are ever before, recognising reinstating the dramatic investment for the industry to aid intended to create a new and accessible The RTPI Awards for Planning “This Plan was borne out of social, original entrance that the the recovery from the effects of the city-centre destination. They include Excellence are the most established and economic and environmental disaster the incredible commit- building once enjoyed. Covid-19 pandemic. The project new hard and soft landscaping, seating respected awards in the UK planning following the demise of the opencast will support economic growth areas, viewpoints and feature plantings industry. Running for over 40 years, coal industry in the area, but far from ment and dedication Until March 2020 the castle had been throughout the Highland area, that reflect the native species of the they celebrate exceptional examples of doing the bare minimum, the Council occupied by the Scottish Courts creating a sustainable, viable and Highlands. The proposals have been planning and the contribution planners sought to find creative solutions to of planners who have and Tribunals Service. During this “must-see” attraction that will designed to integrate with the castle make to society. actively address the issues it faced. period, a second court room was celebrate the spirit of the Highlands. itself to allow the renovated interiors risen to the challenge installed in the area immediately to connect with the new external areas. The Minerals Local Development “The Council has taken the lead in behind the front door, blocking the The Inverness and Highland City Plan has a focus on restoration which implementing and regenerating, using of responding to the formal entrance to the building and Region deal is a joint initiative The proposals can be seen on The was key to securing a £2.2 million the Plan as a driver to deliver positive impacts of Covid-19 on an alternative door was used for supported by up to £315m Highland Council planning portal, regeneration lottery grant prior to its outcomes for our local communities. access to the building. However, as investment from the UK and Scottish within the application for listed building adoption. the planning system. part of the ongoing works at the governments, The Highland Council, consent and building warrant approval “I wish the team well when the winners castle, this relatively recent addition Highlands and Islands Enterprise submitted last month by project Councillor Jim Roberts, Chair of the are declared in a few weeks’ time!” to the castle is being removed. and University of the Highlands architects LDN Architects. These East Ayrshire Planning Committee This work is being carried out as and Islands, aimed at stimulating applications are in preparation for the and Cabinet spokesperson for the RTPI President Wei Yang FRTPI said: “I wish all the finalists part of the enabling contract, a sustainable regional economic main building works contract. This environment and infrastructure was programme of initial work carried growth. contract will be subject to a tender delighted to hear of the nomination. “Many congratulations to all the the very best of luck” out in advance of the main contract. process beginning in spring of 2021. finalists at this year’s RTPI Awards for Enabling works are already underway He said: “Our Minerals Planning Excellence – these projects, involving demolition work, asbestos Local Development teams and individuals showcase the surveys, timber preservation surveys Plan is a very worthy very best of the planning profession and structural checks. finalist in this award from all the RTPI’s regions and nations category and I and from countries around the world.” Note, all timings for the Castle commend our planning transformation are subject to change, officers and our Member/Officer depending on the findings of the The winners will be announced during Working Group for their innovative ongoing enabling works contract (due a ceremony held virtually in the Awards approach in taking this forward. for completion in spring 2021) and the Room on Evessio at 4pm on Thursday impact of the ongoing pandemic. 29 April 2021. Photo by DAVID ILIFF. License: CC BY-SA 3.0 46 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 47 THE ARTS THE ARTS

“It provides some much-needed “We will investigate key themes "We hope that our contribution to the positivity for Inverclyde after the events specific to Inverclyde: health and social programme through; 'Open Studio' of the last year and I look forward to care, with a focus on adult mental providing opportunities for young seeing how things unfold over the next health; young people; regeneration people and nurturing creative talent, 18 months.” of communities; outdoor work; and 'Inside Outside' working with the engaging with areas that have low arts community to develop green spaces The project will also focus on engaging engagement and barriers to access. for wellbeing and 'Creativity in Mind' with people in harder to reach areas, helping adults maintain positive mental supporting freelancers and developing “Funding will provide a context for both health will help Inverclyde residents local talent. emerging and established artists to cope and recover from this difficult push the boundaries of their practice period.” Pauline Kane, theatre director of the and think about radical solutions to Beacon Arts Centre, said: how we can sensitively collaborate and More information about the Creative make work with local communities.” Scotland funding announcement is “We welcome the news of Creative available at: Scotland’s Culture Collective Fund The Inverclyde consortium is one of https://www.creativescotland. for Inverclyde and are thrilled to be a 26 from across Scotland to benefit com/what-we-do/latest-news/ partner in this. from nearly £6m of funding to support archive/2021/02/culture-collective- creative practitioners, organisations recipients. “The funding will allow us to explore and communities to work together new ways of working meaningfully and across the country to help shape the creatively with our local communities future of local cultural life. and the area’s many talented creative practitioners, with a focus on the Kevin Jannetts, artistic director of recovery of both Inverclyde and the Inverclyde Youth Theatre (Kayos), wider cultural sector. said:

“We look forward to working with “We are thrilled to be part of the Culture our partners to deliver new cultural Collective and that Inverclyde has been Over £¼m for new experiences and bring about positive successful in its funding bid. change for the wider area.” “We are excited to expand our Inverclyde culture club As well as reaching out to people of all working with other local creative ages across the district, the project will practitioners and organisations support over 40 artists. and our local communities who A MAJOR new project capitalising on Inverclyde’s vibrant arts have been particularly affected sector to make a difference to people’s lives has been awarded Kat Boyle, arts coordinator from CVS by Covid-19.” Inverclyde, said: more than £¼ million. Karen Orr, chief executive of RIG Arts, The council, in partnership with the “We’re proud to “This is such brilliant news for added: Beacon Arts Centre, CVS Inverclyde, be working in Inverclyde. Kayos Theatre Group and RIG Arts, partnership with and “We are delighted to be a part of has secured £275,000 from Creative bringing together “Collectively this activity will allow Inverclyde's successful Culture Scotland’s new ‘Culture Collective’ so many diverse for freelance creative practitioners Collective bid. fund. organisations to use and organisations to develop their our unique arts and programmes throughout the next 18 The money will be used to deliver a cultural sector to benefit people across months across the breadth of the local “We are passionate about range of events, experiences and Inverclyde. authority area. using creativity and projects over the next 18 months aimed at boosting health and wellbeing, “This funding will allow all the partners “Our intention is to create a context for innovation to influence improving local communities and to work individually and collectively artists to experiment with alternate encouraging greater participation in on a wide range of projects ultimately modes of sharing practice by test change and to make a the cultural sector. designed to improve our communities piloting new local partnership and positive difference in and, most importantly, the people who community projects that offer a window Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde make them. into new collaborative ways of working people’s lives and their Council’s convener of education and including residency and artist exchange communities, said: process. environments.

48 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 49 THE ARTS THE ARTS Funding to create arts and Councillor Iain McLaren, Convener of Infrastructure, culture venue at site of Regeneration and Economic Development said:

former church in Alexandria “This building has long been a focal point and landmark in Funding to bring a former church in Alexandria back to life as Alexandria and bringing it back an arts and creative venue has been awarded to West Dun- into use as a venue which will offer so much to the community bartonshire Council. is a wonderful idea.

The £750,000 grant from the Scottish particular emphasis on developing “I’m sure that Viresco Studios will Doon Academy’s community art Government’s Regeneration Capital the young workforce through work be an invaluable resource for local Grant Fund will go towards plans to placements and experience. residents and also attract visitors transform the B-Listed former St to the area, benefitting the whole Andrew’s Church, creating studios, The venue will also have a training town centre. project is a sign for our times workshops, training space, event and kitchen focussed on using local food exhibition areas and a cafe. producers and growers and organising “Alexandria has a rich history The young people of Doon Academy have created an inspirational piece of art that has recently bespoke dining experiences. in the textiles industry and I’m been installed on the Masonic Lodge building in Dalmellington. The creation of Viresco Studios and pleased this facility will provide Arts Centre, which is being led by The interior will include bespoke the resource for local people to local charity Viresco Studios SCIO furniture and features designed and become involved with it in the The artwork, which carries the During the week the sign was created, photographs are wonderful and the in partnership with the Council, will manufactured by local artists and future. inspirational words ‘Life is tough, but the school hosted a community event art is inspiring. Well done to everyone encourage wider participation in the craftspeople, all inspired by local so are you’ was created by the young and were supported by community involved.” arts, creative enterprises and cultural history and heritage. “I look forward to seeing this people as part of a community art worker Danielle Winters, who organised activity in the area. project progress.” project led by the school’s Expressive for the local community and elected Miss Fletcher, Principal Teacher said: The programme will also engage local Arts department – Miss Fletcher, Miss members to attend. This community “We are overjoyed at the response to the The workshop areas will focus on residents, offering them the opportunity Black and Miss Donnelly. They wanted event provided the opportunity for project so far and are extremely proud micro manufacturing of materials to work alongside artists to bring their to create an outdoor mural that had invited guests and parents to hear of all of the Doon Academy pupils who like wood and textiles, with the aim of own designs to life. The proposed development will bring an a mental health theme and provide about the project directly from the helped create this piece of community encouraging startups to make use of initial investment of £1m to Alexandria a positive statement for the local young people and some people even art. We would like to thank the Masonic the space. Alongside the award from the RCGF, for the restoration, with an estimated community. It was also the perfect contributed to the project by painting Social Club for allowing the sign to be Creative Scotland and Historic £250,000 to be invested in the next five opportunity for their young people to part of the sign. Frank Carty installed installed on their building. Seven artists’ studios will be created Environment Scotland will be asked years. learn from a practicing artist while the sign, which was completed early in addition to recreational space which to part-fund the project. producing something inspiring that in 2020, on Wednesday 27 January this will give local residents the opportunity Up to 20 jobs will be created through everyone could be proud of. year following planning permission “The sign is a great example to participate in creative activities The building , which closed as a place the building works. being granted. of community partnership and supporting people to access the of worship in 1995, has been derelict The young people engaged with wider creative industries sector, with since 2012. Communities Secretary Aileen teachers, peers, parents and guardians Councillor Fiona Campbell, Cabinet with Expressive Arts Staff, Campbell said: “The Regeneration and the local community on the wording Member for Skills and Learning Doon Academy Pupils, the Capital Grant Fund is all about for their artwork. Once this important said: “This community art project is enhancing communities by delivering decision was made, the school worked wonderful. Doon Academy’s Expressive Creative Minds Team, Artisan new or refurbished buildings for local alongside Helen Duncan from East Arts department, Miss Fletcher, Miss people, and this former church will be Ayrshire Creative Minds, she organised Black and Miss Donnelly, are to be Artworks and the Masonic a fantastic accessible space for wider for Frank Carty from Artisan Artworks commended for creating a project Club, all coming together to participation in a range of arts and to work with the young people for a for their young people that connects creative activities. week, back in 2019. Frank worked with back directly to the local community. create a piece of art with a two groups of pupils from S1 and S3, They couldn’t have imagined when the message that is more “Alongside COSLA we are delivering a teaching sign writing tools, techniques project started the huge changes and further £25 million of investment this and materials. The sketches the young difficulties that all our communities relevant now than ever.” year to 26 new projects across Scotland people created of the lettering were were set to experience. The sign is for and I am pleased that Alexandria will used on the sign with support from our times, I haven’t been able to visit benefit from a share of this funding.” Frank. in person to see the sign in situ but the Image Source: www.virescostudios.org.uk

50 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 51 LIBRARIES LIBRARIES

The service introduced a second eBook platform, Borrowbox, last summer and invested in extra stock as well as A selection of new Scottish Fiction promoting the service heavily. This meant many people of all ages tried eBooks for the first time. available to District Librarians from Jeff Kinney and David Walliams again dominated the junior chart but old favourite Harry Potter bested them Spring 2021 both thanks to huge audiobook loans. Audiobooks were the big story of the year. Very few are now loaned on CD, but because eAudio can be listened to easily on phones or tablets it has really taken The House off. Some titles are available on multi- Beside the user licences meaning many readers A Most The Wolf can borrow a title simultaneously. Cherry Tree Convenient by L. Taylor Mile Lie by C. F. Shetland Library’s ‘most Overall, the year’s real top titles “Available to buy here when combining online loans by Robert McCall 1959 was a different time, when gender Barrington were: roles were fixed and one naive mistake Available to buy here can change everything. Diane found Available 6th May 2021 here borrowed’ in 2020 1.  J.K. Rowling: Harry Potter this out the hard way and not only A forbidden contest. An international and the Philosopher’s Stone “Jim Boyd finds life uncomfortable in loses her future but also herself and game. Shetland Library’s ‘most borrowed’ lists for 2020 were a little – 182 issues, nearly all the oppressive British society of 2042, eventually her mind. Diane’s husband different to usual, with a large uptake in eBook reading and eAudio where woke sensibilities and political Richard, barely a man when he put Bankrolled by the world’s wealthy elite correctness are the order of the day, the ring on Diane’s finger, struggles and followed by thousands online, two audiobooks during the pandemic. 2.  Jojo Moyes: The Giver of enforced by punitive laws. However, to understand and keep the family teams of warriors vie for dominance Normally the highest loans are among Top local physical book was Spy Fever: Stars – 146 issues when his best friend dies in suspicious together. Ultimately it is their daughter, ... and the streets of Edinburgh run circumstances, he is unexpectedly Frankie, who pays the price and learns with blood. adult fiction and the top spot for The Post Office Affair by Margaret 3.  Marian Keyes: Grown Ups thrust into a position of real authority that not all mothers are as loving as ‘physical’ loans in 2020 went to Jojo Flaws - perhaps spurred by interest – 100 issues Moyes’ The Giver of Stars, a novel about in the closure of Lerwick’s main post and to the heart of momentous events. they should be.” Into this secret struggle steps Tyler packhorse librarians in the USA. office, which was big news early in 4. Michelle Obama: Becoming Maitland, seeking his lost sister, and 2020. This is the extraordinary tale – 95 issues As he uses that new found power to Lana Cameron, grieving her dead child. Ann Cleeves, who topped this chart for of how all the Post Office staff were investigate the mystery of his friend's Go Live When they are accosted by figures many years, was second with The Long locked up during the First World War, death, he unexpectedly stumbles Your Life in black hoodies and each handed Call, the first of her new series set in suspected of spying. Demand for physical loans came back across a far greater secret, stretching a silver amulet, they recognise the Devon. Other popular authors were very strongly once the Library reopened, back for generations and which has by Yvonne Triple Horn of Odin – the talisman of Elly Griffiths, Val McDermid, Peter May, eBooks made a big difference to and by October 2020 borrowing levels manipulated millions of lives. Now, only the Valhalla Horde. They are being Graham Norton and Ian Rankin and Shetland lending too however, and once of physical stock was back to pre- he can make known the truth, but at Bostock recruited into the great game known there was still a lot of interest in The e-loans are added Marsali Taylor takes lockdown levels. Even now while terrible cost to himself and his young Available to buy here as The Pantheon. And one day they will Sixteen Trees of the Somme by Lars first and second place in the Shetland the Library is operating under extra family. “A simple guide for young people change everything. Mytting, which is partly set in Shetland. rankings. Marsali had done well with restrictions again, loans of physical leaving home - make your own rules eBook loans for some years. books remain high. Home deliveries Can he risk everything that ever for life and here are some ideas and Now they must risk their lives and join Most borrowed physical non-fiction alone can account for as many as 800 mattered to him in one last dramatic a reminder of the really important the ranks of seven ancient warrior book was The Frayed Atlantic Edge The Library was completely closed for loans a week. throw of the dice, to finally expose the things - but written in light-hearted teams which inhabit this illicit world. by David Gange, the story of his canoe just over two months due to the 2020 Climate Change Hoax?” rhyming verse with funky drawings. Their journey will be more wondrous journey from Shetland to Cornwall, lockdown and then gradually reinstated Karen Fraser, Executive Manager – Sometimes funny, sometimes witty but and horrifying than anything they could which was launched in Shetland lending of physical books. There was Library Services, said fundamentally covering just about all have dreamed, taking each of them to Library in 2019. Michelle Obama’s also a publishing hiatus and the UK’s “The book that will get areas of life - looking after yourself, the depths of their souls ... and testing autobiography Becoming was also very biggest book wholesaler, Bertrams, “Whether online or offline, it is clear everyone thinking! believing in yourself, learning to ‘fly’, them to breaking point as they search popular, as was The Salt Path by Winn went out of business, meaning the that reading is playing a big part in live and love your passion and be the for loved ones and for the meaning in Raynor. In fact, when issues of eBooks library had to set up new contracts people’s lives during the pandemic.” I guess there’s two success you were born to be. Go live their lives. and eAudiobooks are added these sit before new stock could start coming sides of every story...” your life is simply a handbook for how at first and second in the non-fiction in again. to be happy, succeed in life and make Let the Season begin. ranking respectively. – Amazon Customer a difference in the world.

52 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 53 THE ARTS

Playwright and performer wins Burns Humanitarian Award The founder of a theatre group which helps those battling addiction has won the 2021 Robert Burns Humanitarian Award. Mark Williamson won the prestigious award recently during a special online ceremony.

sing or dance, or to play an important Thurairajah and Dr Alexander Paterson. role through the lighting, sound and prop preparation. Dr Varatharajah Thurairajah, also known as Dr Varathan, treated civilians Since 2006, Mark has taken Sweet for caught up in the Sri Lankan civil war Addicts to venues throughout Scotland which lasted for 26 years. to perform more than 20 plays, many of which he has written or directed. Dr Alexander 'Sandy' Paterson is a medical oncologist whose work is On receiving the RBHA, Mark said: “I renowned around the world. As well would like to congratulate everyone as practising in the UK, US and Canada who was nominated, I was stunned to during his career, he also volunteers Mark Williamson, founder of Sweet for Addicts and winner of find myself a finalist in such company in the teaching of medical skills to the 2021 Robert Burns Humanitarian Award. as Dr Varatharajah Thurairajah and Dr students all over the world. Part of the annual Burns an' a' that! Alexander Paterson, and to win this Festival celebrations, the RBHA is award is a real honour. I accept this As well as the RBHA 2021 title, Mark supported by South Ayrshire Council. and dedicate it to all who have worked receives the equivalent of 1759 guineas with Sweet for Addicts and to those we (approximately £1,800) – a sum which Mark is the founder of 'Sweet for have lost along the way.” signifies the year of the Bard's birth and Addicts', a non-profit recovery-based the coinage in circulation at that time. theatre group based in Glasgow. Mark Chair of the RBHA judging panel and formed the group in 2006 and has since Leader of South Ayrshire Council, worked with hundreds of people as Councillor Peter Henderson said: they journey their way out of addiction. “Congratulations to Mark, without his intervention there would be many Everyone who performs with Sweet for more people battling addiction across Addicts has a connection with addiction, Scotland. Mark goes out of his way to whether person or through, a loved one, give everyone a chance no matter their friend, acquaintance or family member. circumstances, he is an inspiration to Mark does not hold auditions, but us all.” instead offers everyone the opportunity to be involved in a positive way. Whether Also recognised at the award ceremony that's choosing to go on stage and act, were fellow finalists Dr Varatharajah

54 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 55 FINANCE FINANCE Holyrood to define scrutiny role in response to Brexit

A panel of fiscal, economic and constitutional experts says devolution is now much more complex, with its recent fiscal powers and post-Brexit changes, that the Scottish Parliament must change its approach to scrutiny after the 2021 election.

The panel recommends that to support with UK Ministers in many significant this work a short, tightly focused policy areas. For example, in relation independent review of the committee to income tax and in many policy areas structure should be established, to previously within the competence of the

report back to Parliament as soon as EU. This means that the Parliament Image © Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body possible. will need to be much more aware of how UK legislation impacts on devolved that Parliament in consultation with the Legislative Working Group should be •  Professor Michael Keating, Centre The focus of the review should be areas including the extent to which Scottish Government needs to clearly an early priority in Session 6. on Constitutional Change on committee remits in the next it constrains the powers of Scottish define its scrutiny role in response to Parliament and should include Ministers. Brexit. • The Panel agreed the successor •  Professor James Mitchell, consideration of the fiscal and Brexit- committee should explore how University of Edinburgh related issues raised by the experts, “At the same time the Parliament will “To support this work, we propose that COVID-19 has impacted the taxation along with the legacy reports of other need to continue to scrutinise policy a short and tightly focused independent system and consider options for a •  Christine O’Neill QC, Chairman, committees. developments at an EU level. Both in review of the committee structure restructuring of the taxes which Brodies LLP terms of the on-going impact of the UK- should be established forthwith and are devolved including a human- Holyrood’s Finance & Constitution EU trade agreement on devolved areas report to the Parliament as soon as rights based approach. The Panel •  Mairi Spowage, Deputy Director, Committee, who commissioned the and the extent to which the keeping practically possible. recommends that this inquiry should Fraser of Allander Institute expert panel’s analysis, will consider pace power is used.” be a priority for the successor the findings next week. “The focus of the review should be on committee. •  Mark Taylor, Audit Director Audit Setting out the expert panel’s committee remits in the next Parliament Scotland Expert panel member Professor recommendations, Charlotte Barbour, and should include consideration of Finance & Constitution Committee James Mitchell, University of Director of Taxation, The Institute of the issues raised in this report and the Convener Bruce Crawford MSP said: •  Dr Hannah White, Deputy Director, Edinburgh said: Chartered Accountants of Scotland legacy reports of other committees. Institute of Government. said: “The calibre of our expert panel speaks “Devolution is now much more complex “The review findings should help to volumes. I welcome this insightful, They were joined by Professor Tom and challenging to understand with the “The Panel’s view is that if there is to be inform the agreement of the committee authoritative analysis. There is much Mullen, Professor Kenneth Armstrong powers of Scottish Ministers shared meaningful scrutiny of Brexit-related structure and committee remits for for our committee and the rest of the and David Phillips who are Advisers to developments, the Parliament cannot Session 6.” Parliament to consider. I am sure it will the Finance & Constitution Committee. merely continue with the existing be influential on the establishment of Dr Jim Johnston Clerk to the Committee approach to its scrutiny function. The The expert panel also made committees in the new Parliament.” chaired the panel. Support was provided future scrutiny burden arising from recommendations for the committee by parliament officials. Brexit is so great that if it is carried that will succeed the Finance & The panel members, in alphabetical out in an ad-hoc manner it is unlikely Constitution Committee after the May order, are: that it will be done effectively. 2021 election: •  Charlotte Barbour, Director “Instead, a more systematic and • The Panel’s view is that there is of Taxation, The Institute of carefully planned approach is required, likely to be an increased demand Chartered Accountants of Scotland albeit with a need for flexibility in order for parliamentary time to consider to react to changing circumstances. tax legislation and therefore the •  Douglas Fraser, Business & The Panel, therefore, recommends ongoing work of the Devolved Taxes Economy Editor, BBC Scotland Image © Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body 56 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 57 HOUSING HOUSING Families pick up the keys to new Council housing in St. Ninians Photo © Tom Parnell (cc-by-sa/2.0) Families are opening the doors to new council housing in St Ninian’s after they officially picked Council strategy to bring at least 100 up the keys to their homes. Stirling Council’s commitment to Housing Portfolio Holder, Councillor Depute Portfolio holder for Housing, providing more affordable homes Evelyn Tweed said, Councillor Danny Gibson, said: empty homes back into use for residents across the region has delivered 10 new council houses within “Stirling Council “This development The four-year Empty Homes Strategy 2021-24 has been designed to assist with housing local builder Ogilvie Homes King’s has ambitious plans is the first of waiting lists, to help alleviate homelessness, support town centre regeneration and ensure Meadow development. to invest in and many that will deliver affordable be completed by a reduction in problems caused by empty properties. The new houses at Monteith Avenue housing across Stirling Council and were built as part of Stirling Council’s the council area so other Registered It follows a previous successful plan “Renovating Strategic Housing Investment Plan we are pleased to Social Landlords in implemented by the Council’s Housing empty homes is so (SHIP), which aims to provide new high- hand the keys over 2021 and these new service, which saw the number of important because quality, sustainable, affordable homes to our new tenants and I hope they developments will help many people on homes being empty for more than six it helps local for Stirling residents. are delighted with these high quality, our housing list to access good quality months reduce from 439 in 2019, to economies. As we energy efficient homes.” affordable housing.” 352 in 2020. know, Covid-19 has To reduce the risk of fuel poverty for severely affected tenants, Stirling Council has also fitted Depute Portfolio Holder, Councillor The Strategic Housing Investment Plan To continue the downward trend, local businesses solar panels with battery storage Alasdair MacPherson said: (SHIP) 2021/22 to 2025/26 set out the the Council’s Empty Homes Officer and retailers working in building and across the Monteith Avenue properties. Council’s approach to invest in and identifies empty properties through construction. “I welcome that deliver affordable housing throughout various sources including council tax The properties being handed over this project has Stirling over the next five years. records. “When an empty home is being include: received grant renovated or repaired, local builders funding of £590,000 The Plan has the potential to deliver •  4 x 1 bedroom cottage flats Owners are then provided with advice and contractors are likely to be hired, from the Scottish more than 1,400 homes, the majority and information on various options who in turn purchase materials •  3 x 2 bedroom terraced homes Government and of which would be provided by Stirling available to them, as well as given from local suppliers. With Scottish this funding helps Council, Forth Housing Association and •  1 x 2 bedroom bungalow financial and practical assistance. Government figures showing that every us to increase the Rural Stirling Housing Association £1 spent on renovating property in •  2 x 3 bedroom semi-detached number of new affordable homes that The Empty Homes Strategy 2021-24 Scotland generates an additional £1.60 properties we can build in Stirling.” was discussed at a recent meeting for the economy, this is an important of the Housing and Communities task which will benefit the whole of committee, where elected members West Dunbartonshire.” approved the target to bring a minimum of 25 empty homes back into use every Councillor Caroline year in West Dunbartonshire. McAllister, Vice Convener of the Members were also told of ongoing Committee, added: plans from the Scottish Government to introduce compulsory sale orders for “I am so pleased to vacant homes, which the Empty Homes see the progress Officer could use as an additional tool being made to bring when all other means of engaging with these empty properties back into use, the owner is exhausted. and our plans to expand on these for the benefit of our communities. Not Councillor Diane Docherty, Convener only will this help with homelessness of Housing and Communities, said: and waiting lists, but it will also support the regeneration of our town centres.”

58 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 59 HOUSING COMMUNITIES Community Choices brings £3m boost

More than £3m will be available over the next two years to communities across the Falkirk area as part of the new Community Choices initiative. The programme, will be used to Councillor Cecil increase community input into how Meiklejohn, Leader money is invested in local communities, of Falkirk Council and was launched on Monday 8 said: “Community February. Community groups and Choices gives organisations will have the opportunity communities across to submit a local project idea through the Falkirk Council an expression of interest. area greater power to decide how money is spent in their local areas Groups and organisations can apply on projects and initiatives that matter to two separate funds: a small grants most to them. programme with a maximum of £1500 per proposed project. A minimum of “The programme will direct spending in £10,000 will be available to each of a way that improves the quality of life at Falkirk Council’s nine wards in the a local level and supports communities first year as part of the Small grants in their activities. programme. Interested groups and people don’t The Capital funding will make available need to have any prior experience a total of £3m over two years. Proposed of project management or financial projects for this fund must be for a expertise. However, they will need to Council wins another top housing award! minimum of £5000 and can be used commit to the duration of the projects for building something new, improving from initial expression of interest to The travellers site at Coalpots replaced the former Houdston The CIH Scotland housing awards an asset and purchasing equipment. completion. Applicants can discuss Road in Girvan, South Ayrshire travellers site in Girvan, which was recognise and celebrate the creativity, their submissions both before and damaged by flooding. passion and innovation of housing An advisory panel made up of nine during the process with Falkirk Council has just scooped another organisations and individuals across the community representatives (one staff. national housing award! Councillor Philip Saxton, Housing sector in Scotland, and despite a hugely from each Council ward), four and Community Wellbeing Portfolio challenging year, this year’s awards representatives from the third sector The site won the ‘Excellence in Holder said: received over 75 entries across eleven and four representatives from Falkirk development for affordable housing categories, including communications Council and the Health and Social award’ at the CIH Scotland housing "I am delighted with in a crisis, best frontline housing story Care Partnership will ensure that “Community Choices gives awards. this award, it’s further and excellence in leadership. applications meet the criteria before recognition of this they are put forward to a public vote. communities across the Indeed, the awards keep coming for important development Falkirk Council area greater these innovative chalet style bungalows; and the extra effort that Project proposers will then submit last year the site clinched top spot at went in to ensuring more detailed applications online. The power to decide how money the Scottish Home Awards. the homes met all the needs of the closing date for final applications is is spent in their local areas travellers. With accolades like this, 9th April. The public will then vote on Completed by McTaggart Construction we know we are delivering affordable which of the projects should receive on projects and initiatives in August 2019 at a cost of £1.6 million, housing, which ensures the people of public funding. Voting will start from the housing which was part funded by South Ayrshire can grow well, live well 26 April to 14 May. that matter most to them.” the Council and Scottish Government, and age well."

60 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 61 COMMUNITIES COMMUNITIES Highland Council looking into creation of a Common Good Asset Register for Kingussie and Grantown on Spey Highland Council hopes a new Common Good Asset Register can be created for Kingussie after investigations identified a number of common good assets belonging to the Badenoch town’s Common Good Fund. In addition, investigation work is also burgh to which each fund relates and The process for the public consultation Leverhulme Community Hub’s underway in Strathspey to establish must be accounted for separately to is involved and includes the Council assets belonging to Grantown on other Council property. being required to publish the list of Spey with the aim of setting up a Common Good Assets on its website, Common Good Asset Register there Chair of the Badenoch and be available for viewing in Council allocated £300k too sometime in the future. and Strathspey Area offices, libraries and hubs. Committee, Councillor It was announced recently that Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has been successful in its application After identifying the Kingussie’s Bill Lobban, said: The Council must also advertise to the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF) for £300,000 to upgrade assets officers have now outlined the “This new focus on the fact the list is available and next steps in the process which would assets held in the notify community councils or other and refurbish the old Leverhulme Memorial School building in Leverburgh, Isle of Harris. be required to establish a register ‘common good’ could community bodies so they are aware The community was successful in acquiring the Building from the Comhairle in 2020 and the including a public consultation. herald a new beginning for Kingussie they can make representation. The RCGF funding awarded will now to go towards developing the project. and Grantown Common Good Funds list must be publicly available for 12 Investigations into property in Grantown and could bring substantial benefit to weeks and the Council should publish A Development Trust - Leverhulme Chair of the Comhairle’s Sustainable the economy and promoting health and on Spey will be brought before a both towns. its Common Good Register as soon as Community Hub Ltd (LCH) - will Development Committee, Councillor. wellbeing.” future meeting of the Badenoch and practicable after the initial 12-week be responsible for delivering the Donald Crichton said: “We were Strathspey Area Committee. “Obviously, we have only just started consultation period. community-owned and run project, delighted to learn of the success of LCH’s Chairman Angus Macleod the process, but it certainly looks to provide an economic Hub in the the Leverhulme Community Hub in said: “Leverhulme Community Hub Members at today’s meeting of the positive for the future.” When representation is received from centre of the village, adjacent to - and attracting Scottish Government capital are delighted to be in receipt of this Badenoch and Strathspey Area anyone it should be investigated by in collaboration with - the local shop funding towards this exciting and funding which is a real turning point for Committee noted the report presented Both Kingussie and Grantown on the Common Good Fund Officer and (An Clachan) and village hall. innovative development in Leverburgh. the future of the project. For a long time to them which highlighted the list Spey’s Common Good Fund have only Members will be kept up to date on any Initiatives to grow the south Harris now, we have seen the need in our area of property proposed for Kingussie a residual balance at this time and are representations made and the outcome Run as a social enterprise it will economy are welcome, especially for regeneration, more facilities and a in accordance with the Community not currently being operated as active of any investigations. comprise: a Café/ restaurant; during these testing times.” place that will bring people together - Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. funds. Launderette; Gym; Post Office; and the Hub will serve all these purposes. There is currently interest from office-space to accommodate a Communities Secretary Aileen We’re living in difficult times, and the Councillors also agreed to the launching Mr Lobban added: “A strategy will be community groups about Community satellite-office of the Comhairle - Campbell said: “Tackling disadvantage future is uncertain, but we feel this of a public consultation on the list required to consider how to encourage Asset Transfers of property that has contributing to the local economy, and delivering inclusive growth right is more reason than ever to put our of proposed properties in Kingussie income generation from the reclassified been identified as possible Common promoting health & well-being, across Scotland - including in remote efforts into bringing out plans for a and noted the position regarding the assets, which will be to the benefit of Good within Kingussie, but that too and enhancing quality of life in the locations – is what the Regeneration multi-purpose, multi-benefit building ongoing investigation into properties both towns.” would require a public consultation community. Capital Grant Fund is all about. Together to fruition. We are extremely grateful in Grantown on Spey. exercise. with COSLA, we’ve delivered almost for the support from the RCGF, CNES It will also offer a charity shop and £200 million to date for community and its officers and our advisors. Common Good assets are property museum/ historical archive, celebrating regeneration projects. This brings us considerably closer to including buildings, land, rights (e.g. local history (e.g. Harris Tweed) and putting South Harris back on the map fishing), artwork, regalia, furniture, Gaelic language - providing a new “This project will see a former school in terms of amenities and community stocks and shares and cash funds that ‘visitor destination’ for the annual rescued from demolition, and brought regeneration. It’s undoubtedly an belonged to the Burghs of Scotland 54,000 passengers on the Berneray back into use to deliver a broad range exciting time for us all and a bit of hope (pre-1975). They are held by the Ferry and the 130,000 visitors to Harris of vital facilities and services for the amongst the worries of the current Council principally for the benefit of the each year. community, celebrating the Gaelic world.” local community within the specified language and local heritage, enhancing geographical boundary of the former

62 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 63 COMMUNITIES COMMUNITIES Tenancy Agreement Video scoops Council boost for Newton top Film award Mearns park East Ayrshire Federation of Tenants and Residents and East Ayrshire Council scooped the Chartered Institute of Housing Scotland Working in Partnership Award for their Tenancy Fairweather Park in Newton Mearns is set for a major upgrade thanks to a £130,000 invest- Agreement Video at the annual housing awards ceremony, which took place online earlier ment from Council development contributions. this month. The enhancement works will see a or provision of active open space in Throughout the past year, outdoor variety of new play equipment installed the area. The Council’s development space has been hugely important to The Council’s Customer Liaison Service including a climbing matrix, see-saws, contributions policy allows contributions us all, providing us with somewhere and the Federation had agreed early in trampolines and a roundabout suitable to be sought from relevant planning to get fresh air and exercise, so I am 2020 that they would produce a video for wheelchair users. proposals to mitigate the anticipated delighted that we are creating yet that would provide tenants with clear impact of new development upon local another high-quality facility for young and accurate information about their The park had been highlighted services, infrastructure and facilities. people to enjoy.” tenancy agreement. The video, which as an area for improvement and was introduced by local tenant Lynn, further consultation provided local East Renfrewshire The upgrade is due to get underway at was designed to be easy to access schools, groups and residents with Council Environment the end of April and is expected to be for new and existing council tenants, an opportunity have their say on how Convener, Councillor completed within four weeks. helping to break down barriers tenants they wanted the park to look and what Alan Lafferty: may experience and enable them to facilities to include. have a better understanding of their “The upgrade planned “Throughout the past year, tenancy agreement. award with our employees, they are a “The Federation has worked with These works are being funded by for the park will create outdoor space has been very strong partnership and deserve and been supported by East Ayrshire development contributions, received a fantastic play area for local residents Councillor Elena Whitham, Cabinet this recognition.” Council for many years, so when we specifically for the enhancement and visitors to Newton Mearns. hugely important to us all” Member for Housing and Communities were asked to get involved we didn’t said: Bruce Cuthbertson, Chairperson hesitate, and it was a lot of fun. We of East Ayrshire Federation said: are very grateful to the Customer “By working Liaison team, Housing Services, collaboratively, the “We are delighted to be part of the Vibrant Communities and TIS for their Council’s Customer journey going forward to provide better support to make this project work, Liaison Service services for the tenants and residents we all worked well together through and East Ayrshire of East Ayrshire. The video was such difficult and challenging times last year. Federation of Tenants a worthwhile project and I am so We are delighted with this award and and Residents have pleased for everyone involved that our look forward to many more years of developed and created a useful partnership has been recognised at a working together for the benefits of resource for tenants that has also been national level. The video ensures that all tenants.” well used by Council employees and all tenants can easily understand their elected members. The video, which tenancy agreement and can access East Ayrshire Federation of Tenants & was launched on Scottish Housing Day clear, concise information from a Residents’ overall aim is to promote last September, helps tenants to feel mobile device. the rights of tenants and residents happy and safe in their homes. throughout East Ayrshire in the “We are confident that the future maintenance and improvement of “People are the heart of everything is bright when the projects we are housing conditions, local amenities, we do and we work hard to ensure working on are implemented, reflecting and the overall environment, along that our tenants fully participate and the views of both the Council and their with promoting a thriving community engage with the Council. We achieve tenants.” spirit throughout the neighbourhoods this by working closely with the they work with. They are supported by Federation. They are a talented and Lynn Graham, Secretary of the East the Tenants Information Service and very committed group who are helping Ayrshire Federation of Tenants and funded and registered by East Ayrshire to transform the lives of local people. I Residents said: Council. was delighted they, virtually, lifted this

64 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 65 COMMUNITIES COMMUNITIES

Photo © Thomas Nugent (cc-by-sa/2.0) Empty dam safety warning A SAFETY warning has been issued for people about the dangers of stepping into an empty Greenock dam. Water levels at the Cowdenknowes “Until as such times as the levels return “Deep mud can be a serious hazard Reservoir, better known as Murdieston to normal safety signs have been put and I ask that people and their animals Dam, are much lower than normal up advising of these dangers. stick to the designated paths. Town Centre Funding to improve after it was recently drained to allow for essential safety checks and repairs. “There’s also the added risk of ice at “Whilst some people think it might be the moment due to the cold snap we’re tempting to enter the dam area you can It has left a muddy area at the bottom experiencing so please be careful when never be sure of the risks.” Caithness CCTV of the dam more exposed, which poses out and about.” a serious safety risk for people and Members of the Caithness Committee have agreed to use Town Centre Funding to invest in their pets becoming stuck as the area The council has a statutory duty to open People are being urged to: the CCTV infrastructure for both Wick and Thurso. is well used by dog walkers. and close the dam valve to make sure it is operational in case there is ever • Stay on designated paths and £16,100 will be used to digitalise the Town Centre Funded public realm small, so it was important we found Inverclyde Council, which is responsible an emergency. keep animals away from the existing aging analogue public space project being delivered by Thurso projects of an appropriate scale that for the reservoir, has issued a plea mud at all times CCTV system in Wick town centre and Community Development Trust. The could be delivered quickly. CCTV has for visitors not to step onto the mud That was recently carried out and a connection of the new system into the remaining £2,379 of the 2020/21 TCF an important role in public safety, but alongside its emergency service fault was discovered during the process •  In the event of an emergency council’s CCTV monitoring office with area allocation will be awarded to the it also protects our other investments partners at Police Scotland, Scottish meaning repairs were required. try not to panic £25,625 to do the same for Thurso town Trust for this project. The wayfinding in the town centre environment by Fire and Rescue Service and the centre. element is now on hold and in its place discouraging vandalism. In the various Maritime and Coastguard Agency. The water level had to drop sufficiently • If anyone does become stuck, the Trust will now deliver their market public consultations undertaken to allow work to take place. they should spread their In September last year the Scottish stall initiative at a cost of £8,763. recently and in community council Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde weight as much as possible Government announced extra funding Members also agreed to invest £8,616 meetings, improved CCTV is a common Council’s communities convener, said: Repairs concluded on 25 January and so they are standing evenly through the Town Centre Fund as on the refurbishment of the Precinct request from the community, so I’m the dam is now filling naturally, which part of its national economic recovery clock. pleased we’re now in a position to take “Reservoirs are just takes time. •  Always carry a mobile phone stimulus package, particularly aimed at this forward. The regeneration of both as dangerous places and dial 999 in an emergency supporting construction activity across Chair of the Committee, Councillor Wick and Thurso town centres is a huge when empty as they Chief Inspector Paul Cameron, Scotland. The Highland Council has Nicola Sinclair said: project and has faced new challenges are when full and I Inverclyde area commander, said: • Other people should not received an additional £1,066,000, ‘I’m delighted to see with covid but we are making progress.” would urge the public attempt to rescue anyone providing an extra £56,104 for investing the proposals for to take care and not “Officers have been made aware of as this can result in more into Thurso and Wick. enhanced CCTV go All Town Centre Fund money needs to walk or allow their dogs to walk in the persons entering Murdieston Dam and people being put at risk ahead. The second be committed by March this year and reservoir as there area will be soft and recently specialist crews were called to At the meeting today members also tranche of town centre projects completed by September 2021. muddy. lead a person and their dog to safety. agreed a variance to the 2019/20 fund money is relatively

66 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 67 Call for backup. COMMUNITIES

Highland Military Liaison Group (Education) podcast receives national interest

A ground-breaking Highland partnership is receiving national interest after being featured as part of a radio podcast aired on BFBS radio. Due to the success of the podcast, The High mobility and re-deployment is for children moving to Highland. Highland Military Liaison Group (MLG) part of military life, but with that comes will be involved in regular monthly a multitude of change for families and They’ve yet to meet their class slots on the BFBS radio. It will involve in the school transition for the child or and teachers in person. Several updates from the group, partners and young person. Whilst the majority of importantly offer the opportunity for our MLG families are resilient and cope resources have been developed children and young people to share well with the changes, reaching out, by both The Highland Council their voices and experiences. offering support and listening to the voice of children to identify their needs and The MLG Partners to aid The Military Liaison Group (Education) and how best to support them is key to transition. provides a unique partnership of their wellbeing. Creating awareness services and agencies that come that MLG is a one stop contact point to The Highland Council website together regularly to plan and provide support Armed Forces families in an provides information and resources support to children of Armed Forces educational context is very important.” to support members of the Armed Families in Highland schools. The Forces, Educators and Practitioners MLG have a wealth of experience and The MLG encourage identification of in Highland. can offer a committed partnership being from an Armed Forces family that is proactive in offering advice, at school enrolment to help make To listen to the podcast and hear from Your time in the Forces never guidance and key support to military sure the right support is given at the Lou Kinnear on the great work and families, educators and practitioners right time to meet the needs of the partnerships being developed across leaves you. Neither do we. in Highland. pupil. This allows a point of contact Highland click the link: to be established and makes support, https://fb.watch/2U7J-jnjAD/ The Military Liaison Group Operational transition and settling in the area that Lead - Lou Kinnear commented: little bit less daunting. For further information on the work 0131 550 1557 “Being offered the opportunity to talk of the group – Contact Lou Kinnear about the work of the MLG and be – Positive Relationships Coordinator, Visit: poppyscotland.org.uk recognised nationally for the service The pandemic and lockdown are Military Liaison Group Lead. Email: [email protected] we provide in Highland is fantastic. identifying greater challenges [email protected]

Poppyscotland is a member of The Royal British Legion group of charities. Scottish Charity No. SC014096. A company limited by guarantee. Scottish Company No. 194893. Registered in 68 Scotland at New Haig House, Logie Green Road, Edinburgh EH7 4HQ. The Royal British Legion, Haig House, 199 Borough High Street, London SE1 1AA.scottish Charity local Registration authority No. 219279. news scottish local authority news 69 LEGAL & CORPORATE

Develop your career supporting Council apologises for our armed forces data breach affecting www.des.mod.uk Find out about 600 customers exciting graduate and apprenticeship Scottish Borders Council has apologised for a data breach opportunities in which has affected around 600 customers. Engineering The Council is currently alerting around The content of the email also outlined 1,300 residents that they are eligible for that eligibility for the payment was due Finance a payment. Unfortunately three emails to the receipt of free school meals, Commercial were sent to multiple individuals and which we absolutely appreciate is a in those emails all recipient email sensitive matter for individuals. Project Professional addresses were visible. “We are taking the incident very A Scottish Borders Council seriously and have discussed it with spokesperson said: the Information Commissioner’s Office. We are taking steps to put in place a “We would like to apologise technical solution to minimise the unreservedly to all our customers chances of a similar incident occurring affected by this data breach and for again.” any distress or embarrassment this Anyone affected by this data breach has caused. with any specific additional concerns should contact the Council’s Data “Those customers who have received Protection team on dataprotection@ an email which includes others’ email scotborders.gov.uk or call 0300 100 addresses are asked to delete it. All 1800. payments will be made as planned to these individuals. All those eligible for the payment will “Individual email addresses were be contacted to confirm eligibility disclosed, this is personal information. before the end of this week.

70 scottish local authority news scottish local authority news 71 Be the future of nursing

A career in nursing is a rewarding and vital role

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Visit rcn.org.uk/become-a-nurse 72to find out more about a career in scottishnursing local authority news