Fairmilehead Community Council meeting held on Tuesday 7 June 2016 in Fairmilehead Parish Church incorporating Annual General Meeting

Present: Dennis Williams (Chair); Norman Tinlin (Secretary); Fiona Simon (Treasurer); Colin Anderson; Johanna Carrie; Barbara Dick (Buckstone Association);Alison Elfick; Carol Lonie (Buckstone Youth); Tom Strathdee;

Ex Officio: Councillors Aitken; PCs Ali Murdoch & Dan Ruane

22 members of the public

In Attendance: Nick Croft, Corporate Policy and Strategy Manager, CEC

Apologies: Sandy Macpherson (Vice Chair); Audrey Ryan, Councillors Lewis & Rust; Ian Murray MP; George Symonds

1. Police Report In the absence of Pc Howie, PCs Murdoch and Ruane from Balerno gave the monthly report for May.

There had been 1 housebreaking on Buckstone Road and a minor assault in Oxgangs road. There had been a theft on Buckstone terrace and flags had been damaged on Mortonhall golf course.

They also informed the meeting of a forthcoming rural crime event which was being held on 18 June at 10.30am at Harlaw.

Should you wish to contact the Community Policing Team, you can do so by email at [email protected] or by telephoning the new national non-emergency number 101. There is also a Police Surgery on Wednesdays between 1700 and 1800 hours at Oxgangs Library.

Note: Following on from a decision taken by Police Scotland the community officers attending our meetings are no longer able to provide printed or e-mail copies of their reports. Only verbal reports will be given.

2. Council Transformation Programme Nick Croft introduced himself and gave some background to the transformation programme.

There was a financial shortfall; health and social care integration and new legislation amongst other things driving the change. There had been salami slicing of services and personnel previously but the Christie Commission had recommended big changes in the way local government was run.

As a result councils, including Edinburgh, had been transforming the way the services were run. In Edinburgh this was being undertaken by a variety of methods including channel change. The public were encourage to make more use of reporting to and contacting the council by online methods

Departments were also being realigned and a move was being made to locality working. This would reduce the number of neighbourhood partnerships areas from 6 to four and each locality would be led by a leadership team.

Pentlands Neighbourhood Partnership would continue to be within the South West Locality which was the only partnership area not being re-aligned or merged with another. There would be a locality team which would include 4 heads of service, the existing neighbourhood manager and leads from community planning partners such as voluntary sector, police, fire and rescue, NHS and health and social care.

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There would be a lot more joint working and building rationalisation and re-provisioning. There would have to be cuts to staff through voluntary redundancy and early retirement. Some services would be affected but it is too early to say how and which ones although it hoped the transformation would make them more efficient. A lot of responsibility for services would be under the remit of the localities instead of from the centre as at present.

Comments/Questions raised: Trying to do a lot – very big changes; Time Line – 2 phases, first by end of June. This year’s saving s will be £20million; Checkpoints – Edinburgh survey; How going to achieve the savings; Funding for parks and open spaces; Pace of reform; How are changes being communicated – community councils will have a critical role in this; Sustainability and carbon emissions; Place and placemaking

3. Block Nomination of Office Bearers Councillor Aitken took the chair for this part of the meeting.

She thanked the members for their work throughout the year and also to the public for their attendance at the meetings and their support. Cllr Aitken explained that due to the forthcoming elections it had been decided at the February meeting that there would be a block nomination of the existing office bearers to continue in post until the general meeting to be held after the elections. This was agreed by the meeting.

Alison Elfick intimated that she would not be standing in the election and Sandy Macpherson had intimated to the Secretary that he was standing down.

Cllr Aitken intimated to the meeting that a complaint had been received from EACC against the Secretary and Chair. As this was an unusual circumstance she had made enquiries regarding protocols as to how to deal with the matter. A meeting, which she had chaired, had been held with the voting members. A decision had been made in regards to the complaint which would be communicated by letter to the EACC. No further action was being taken.

At this point Cllr Aitken circulated copies of her monthly and annual report. These are reported in the normal place in the minute.

4. Reports from Chair and Secretary The Chair thanked the office bearers, members, councillors and those who attended the meeting. He said that we had great attendances at the meeting and a good variety of speakers. He also thanked the police for their attendance and assistance over the year. Fortunately crime in the area, particularly housebreaking, had receded to the previous low levels.

The Secretary circulated copies of his report which is attached at Appendix B.

5. Treasurer’s Report and Approval of Accounts The Treasurer circulated copies of the audited accounts. These should an income for the year of £797.32 and expenditure of £692.55 of which £440 was for the hall let. The balance at 1 April 2016 was £1162.75.

The accounts were approved by the meeting.

6. Minute Of Meeting Held On 3 May 2015 These were approved by the meeting.

7. Matters Arising: a) Pedestrian Crossing, Buckstone Terrace at Waterfield Road There was no update and was covered in Cllr Aitken’s report. . 8. Correspondence a) Inspector Duthie, Oxgangs Police Station – Proposed changes to proposed poling in Edinburgh

2 © Fairmilehead Community Council b) CEC – Liquor licences for June 2016 Board c) Local Government Boundary Commission – Boundary report available to view. d) CEC – Information on voting in Referendum e) Edinburgh Airport – proposed changes to flight paths f) CEC Licensing – Consultation on Music in licensed premises g) Care and Repair – Information on their services (Suggested as future meeting topic) h) CEC Planning – Committee tour on 16 June taking in Scottish Water site (Passed to Planning Representative)

9. Councillors’ Reports

Councillor Aitken distributed copies of her report: Her Annual Report is attached as Appendix A 1. Community Council Elections As your Returning Officer, I have received this timetable for the elections: Timetable for Community Council Elections 2016 Elected Representatives Monday 5 Sept Notice of Election (start of nomination period) Monday 26 Sept Close of Registration (forms to Returning Officer) Thursday 6 October Notice of Poll (if a poll is required) Thursday 27 Oct Polling Day (if a poll is required) Nominated Representatives Monday 5 Sept Notice of Election Monday 26 Sept Close of Registration (forms to Community Council Liaison Officer) TBA Meeting of registered Local Interest Groups to elect Nominated Members (if necessary) Prior to the start of the nomination period, I will receive an Election Pack which will include a summary of duties, register of electors, nomination forms for elected representatives, map of the CC area, election publicity and a timetable for election. 2. School Closures St Peter’s PS, Oxgangs PS and Braidburn Special School reopened on 24th May with Firrhill HS following this week. Oxgangs PS held their Summer Fair in the school on 28th May. 3. Pentland View The planning application has now been validated and is available to view on the Planning Portal. The application number is 16/02397/FUL. Neighbour notifications have been issued to those who meet the legislative requirements. Comments can be made either on the planning portal or by post. The closing date for this is 24 June. Historic Environment Scotland informed me that the applications to list Comiston Farm House have been unsuccessful. 4. Fairmilehead Park I’ve received complaints about the poor condition of the grass in some areas. A boot camp takes place in the park but I’ve been reassured that the Parks officials were notified and gave permission.. 5. Roads • TRO for Margaret Rose Avenue is currently going through the legal process • Speed checks in Frogston Road West are being undertaken. 6. Parking at Pentland PS Again, cars have been parked badly near the school entrance. I have reported this to the police and asked the parking attendants to monitor this. 7. Buckstone PS Mrs Palmer retired at Easter and a new Head has been appointed to start in August. The school held its Summer Fair last month. It was very well organised and widely supported. 8. New Crossing in Buckstone Terrace This was discussed at last month’s meeting. Following the consultation period, there was widespread support for a crossing but not for the proposed location for the bus stop. The Road Safety Officer has suggested that I meet with him and the Road Safety and Active Travel Manager to look at options. 9. Pentland Community Safety Action Group The Group met last month and the main topics were:

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 house break ins – a number of good arrests have been made and the number of crimes has fallen again  youth tracking – there are no youths on it for Ward 8  aggressive cycling on walkways has decreased. I again requested appropriate signs for Cockmylane  police officers are monitoring parking round schools  discussion on a possible Home Security event in Colinton  a Rural Crime Day at Harlaw on 8th June, highlighting issues of anti social behaviour by visitors to the Pentland Hills and an increase of sheep worrying by dogs. 10. Aldi Development The legal process is now complete and works will start shortly. An attempted break ion happened at the church and this has been secured again. 11. Hunter’s Tryst Site Hopefield Partnership has still not lodged a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) for residential use. The officials are continuing discussions with the developers.

I wish you all a relaxing summer, enhanced by warm, dry weather. . In the absence of Councillor Rust, the Secretary distributed copies of his report. Apologies for not being able to attend in person this evening, as I am at Colinton Amenity Association. 1. The Local Government Boundary Commission for Scotland has made its final recommendations to Scottish Ministers for ratification. The positive news is that Colinton remains intact and incorporated in our ward as a whole. Thank you to Fairmilehead Community Council for its representation in that regard. The less positive news is that Fox Spring Rise and Comiston View northwards leaves our ward to join a new Morningside Ward. I will of course continue to represent those residents along with Elaine until next May. 2. A number of waste collection issues have yet again arisen. These have been passed to the Waste Manager. 3. I met with residents concerned with planning application reference 16/02397/FUL to demolish the well-proportioned classical villa known as Comiston Farm House or Pentland View Support Unit and build 4 blocks of 4 storey flats within the grounds. 37 flats and same number of parking spaces and to widen the entrance. I understand many will join you this evening and I am continuing to follow up questions regarding non-listing and trees. I believe around 24 comments have now been submitted to planning and would encourage people to make comment on the application within the time limit. 4. I have sought compensation for residents attending adult education classes at Pentland Community Centre which were cancelled or moved venue due to the PPP1 Schools issues. 5. The next meeting of Pentlands Neighbourhood Partnership is due to take place on Tuesday 14th June at Pentland Community Centre at 7pm. This will include the annual review of partnership work and a public question time. All are welcome to attend. 6. I have written to the Managing Director of First Bus East seeking assurances regarding the future of the number 18 bus route (between The Gyle and ERI), part serviced by First Bus, in relation to the news elsewhere of closures of depots at Musselburgh and North Berwick by First and cessation of East Lothian services etc.

In the absence of Councillor Lewis the Secretary distributed copies of his report. Remit Guinness Pro 12 Final – BT Murrayfield, Saturday 28th May 2016 The season finale of the European professional rugby union league took place in Edinburgh at BT Murrayfield on the 28th May. This was the first time in the league’s existence that the final had taken place outside of Ireland and I was delighted to represent the City of Edinburgh and welcome the league and club representatives to the capital city. The final was contested by two Irish teams – Connaught and Leinster – with Connacht emerging victorious with a 20-10 win. Imaginate Festival – 28th May to 5th June 2016 Edinburgh’s international festival for children features some of the world’s best dance and theatre for young people. Imaginate is truly inspiring and magical festival that delights the young and the

4 © Fairmilehead Community Council young at heart with shows full of excitement, music, light, and colour and fun. The festival is recognised around the world as one of the best places to see children’s theatre and dance of the highest order and I was delighted to speak at the launch of this year’s opening event. Cultural Task Force The second meeting of Edinburgh’s Cultural Task Force took place last week. This is a high level group looking at the strategic development of Edinburgh’s cultural offering. The creation of this group came out of the Desire Lines process which was a call to action from Edinburgh’s cultural community. The first project to be developed by the group is a mapping of cultural and creative spaces in Edinburgh. The mapping exercise will be taken forward with possible support from Creative Scotland and Edinburgh University. Culture & Sport Committee – 31st May 2016 The Culture & Sport Committee took place at the end of the May and discussed reports on a new Events Strategy for Edinburgh, a new BT rugby academy to be based at Sighthill Park, an update on the cycling facility development at Hunters Hall Park and an update on encouraging live music in Edinburgh. Reports can be found at http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/meetings/committee/1009/culture_and_sport_committee City Art Centre – exhibition opening Two new exhibitions have opened at the City Art Centre. Making It: Sculpture in Britain from 1977 to 1986, focuses on a period which saw an emergence of talented sculptors working in the UK achieving international recognition for their work. The second exhibition is Stephen Collingbourne: Don’t be afraid of Pink. The exhibition is a collection of oil paintings inspired by a concept from Stephen’s student days when a lecturer suggested he should work with the colour he disliked the most, rid himself of any pre conceptions and see the potential in every colour. Both exhibitions are free to the public and are on display until the 3rd July. Edinburgh Festival Dates Edinburgh Film Festival 15 June – 26 June Jazz and Blues Festival 15 July – 24 July Edinburgh Festival Fringe 5 August – 29 August Edinburgh Art Festival 28 July – 28 August

Edinburgh International Book Festival 13 August – 29 August Edinburgh Military Tattoo 5 August – 27 August Edinburgh Mela 27 August – 28 August Constituency PPP1 School Closures Firrhill High School will fully reopen to pupils from Monday 6 June as planned. Remedial works on the remaining schools are due to be completed on time and they will all reopen before pupils are welcomed back on Wednesday 17 August. This is in line with the programme of works submitted by the Edinburgh Schools Partnership and if any reopening dates can be brought forward then we will let parents know. I visited Braidburn, Oxgangs and St Peters Primary schools on Friday to chat with the head teacher and see how the children were settling back into their school, the reopening has went well. It was nice to hear that the schools have made good contacts with the schools they were decanted to and they shall continue to maintain good lines of communication. Waste There are still waste issues arising but I have been advised that waste complaints are getting close to acceptable levels.

Ian Murray MP Mr Murray’s newsletters can be found at this link: http://www.ianmurraymp.co.uk/e-magazines

10. Pentlands Neighbourhood Partnership The Secretary reported that the next public meeting, which was the annual review, was being held on 14 June at the Pentland Community Centre. He also reported on the Funding Panel meeting

5 © Fairmilehead Community Council held the previous month when £10,875 had been allocated to organisations including £2,2000 to the 60th Braid (Buckstone) Scout Group.

11. Planning and Environment Colin Anderson distributed copies of his monthly report:

1. Demolition of existing buildings, erection of 37 flats, formation of new site entrance and parking area, landscaping works and all other associated works - Comiston Farmhouse, 83 Pentland View Reference :- 16/ 02397/FUL This is the application by Chamberlain Bell Limited which was the subject of a presentation at the FCC Meeting on 5 April 2016. As the development has less than 50 units, no formal pre- consultation exercise was required by the Council. Comments require to be submitted to the Planning Service by Friday 24 June 2016. An attempt to have Comiston Farmhouse made a listed building has been unsuccessful. In a decision issued on 26 May 2016, Historic Environment Scotland ruled that the building was not considered to meet the criteria for listing – Case ID 300017878. 2. Miller Homes, Land to the East of Winton Gardens, Edinburgh Reference :- 15/02778/PAN No update. 3. Proposed new build hall located at front of school with new hall connection and minor alteration to admin area. Proposed minor alterations to landscaping and alteration to existing hard-standing and access road layout at Buckstone Primary School Reference:- 16/02773/FUL This application has just appeared on the Planning Portal. 4. Calderstones, demolition of existing dwellinghouse, erection of hotel, formation of access roads and associated works – Midlothian Council Reference :- 15/00113/PPP No update. 5. Proposed mountain bike trails and other activities at the former Lothianburn Golf Course – Swanston Farms Limited Reference :- 15/00169/PAN Nothing has been heard about this application for several months. 6. Review of the Scottish Planning System As previously mentioned, in September 2015 an independent panel was appointed by Scottish Ministers to review the Scottish planning system. The panel was tasked with bringing together ideas to achieve a quicker, more accessible and efficient planning process. The report of the panel, “Empowering Planning to Deliver Great Places” and a statement from the panel were published on 31 May 2016. Both documents can be viewed on the Scottish Government website. The panel made 48 recommendations, the range and breadth of those no doubt reflecting the wide variety of views put to them. Some highlights :- enhanced National Planning Framework; LDP should move to 10 year cycle with scope to update (in whole or part) within that period; deregulate planning control by reviewing the permitted development rules; effective grant of planning permission in principle for sites designated in LDPs; communities should be empowered to produce their own local place plans; community councils to have statutory right to be consulted on the LDP; fees on major applications to be increased substantially; repeat applications should be managed more effectively; steps to increase the quality and effectiveness of pre-application consultations; and not surprisingly rejection of the case for an Equal Right of Appeal. 7. Application for a film and TV studio and mixed employment uses; hotel; gas and heat power plant/energy centre at Old Pentland, Loanhead – Midlothian Council Reference:- 15/00364/PPP Scottish Government Appeals Division Reference :- PPA-290 -2032 www.dpea.scotland.gov.uk The Reporter has asked for further information on various environmental issues from the applicant. These, with the exception of the bat survey were to be sent by the applicant w/c 23 May, and the bat survey w/c 13 June. 8. Former Royal High School Building at 5-7 Regent Road, Edinburgh (Hotel Development) Reference :- 15/03989/FUL Scottish Government Appeals Division References :- PPA-230-2178 and LBA-230-2076 www.dpea.scotland.gov.uk Two Reporters have now been appointed to handle these appeals. Work on assessing the written submissions has started and they will be carrying out an unaccompanied site inspection. There will be an interior inspection accompanied by the parties at a later date. It is likely that oral sessions on specific matters will also be required.

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9. Proposed Edinburgh Local Development Plan Scottish Government Appeals Division Reference :- LDP – 230 -2 www.dpea.scotland.gov.uk The following update appeared on the dpea web-site on 1 June 2016 :- “The reporters are currently reviewing the further information received in respect of further information requests 28-33 and proceeding to finalise the report. A few follow up requests were issued during May but all the exchanges, which can be viewed on our web site, have now concluded. Publication of the report is anticipated by the end of June.” 10. Local Development Plan Education Infrastructure Over the next decade and beyond there is expected to be significant housing development across Edinburgh. In June 2014 an Education Infrastructure Appraisal was published as a supporting document for the Proposed 2nd LDP. This appraisal provided details of the changes to the primary and secondary education infrastructure that would be required to accommodate the expected pupil generation from these new developments. Following the adoption of the new guidance on Developer Contributions and Affordable Housing in December 2015, the 2014 Appraisal was updated with a new assessment taking account of all known LDP sites, brownfield sites with windfall development potential and any other sites with permission for housing. The new assessment divides the city into 11 zones based on education catchment areas and for each zone the necessary additional education infrastructure has been assessed. Each zone has its own “financial model”. In summary, the potential extent of the new education infrastructure required is currently estimated to be 8 new primary schools across the city, a new secondary school in West Edinburgh and extensions to many existing primary and secondary schools. A report was before the Education, Children and Families Committee on 24 May 2016 seeking approval for officials to start informal consultations with key stakeholders. 11. A number of major developments are being proposed in Edinburgh West. Here is the latest one :- (i) Proposal of Application Notice at Craigiehall Masterplan, Riverside Road, South Queensferry . Reference :- 16/00633/PAN This relates to a proposed residential development by Hallam Land Management Limited for a site lying to the West of the A90 going from Cramond Brig to the Forth Road Bridge. The site currently consists of Craigiehall Ministry of Defence Site and surrounding agricultural land. 1,200 new houses including support services and facilities are proposed. The site lies within the Green Belt, is part of the Cramond Conservation Area, within an airport safety zone, and there are a number of Category A and B listed buildings and structures on the site. 2 public exhibitions were held in the area in April 2016. 12. Application for planning permission in principle for Land 1000 metres NW, SW and W of Hermiston Junction M8, Gogar Road – proposed residential development, local centre, community facilities (including primary school), green network ( “Phase 1 of the Garden District”) by Murray Estates. Reference :- 15/04318/PPP As mentioned in last month’s report, this application was due to be before the Development Management Sub-Committee on 18 April 2016. Following a complaint by the developer about the content of the Planning Officials report, the report was withdrawn and the hearing postponed. The application came before a special meeting of the Committee on 16 May 2016. After a 5 hour pre- determination hearing, the Committee decided by 10 votes to 1 to grant permission, subject to various conditions. This decision went before the full Council for ratification on 2 June 2016 when it was approved by 35 votes to 17. In moving approval, the Convener of the Development Management Sub-Committee said this site would provide more acceptable land for new housing than some other sites like Cammo, Curriehill and Curriemuirend. This application will now be referred to the Scottish Government for final approval in view of the objection by the Scottish Agricultural Science Agency who are based close to the site. 13. Development of main grandstand at Tynecastle Stadium to increase the capacity in total by 3,000 and replace out of date facilities, also a new Tynecastle nursery. Reference :- 16/0160/PAN A report by Planning Officials on this forthcoming application by Hearts was before the Development Management Sub-Committee on 25 May 2016 and notes the key considerations against which the eventual application will be assessed. The report can be seen on the Council Minutes section of the web-site.

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14. Change of Use to purpose built student accommodation and the erection of 2 new high quality, managed student residences (247 units) at 27,35, 37 – 39 Lanark Road, Edinburgh. Reference :- 15/05401/FUL This is yet another application for purpose built student accommodation. This site is at the junction of Lanark Road and Craiglockhart Avenue, presently partly occupied by Westside Motors Garage, with the remainder occupied by the Blue Goose pub and car park. The proposed development is a mixture of 4, 5 and 6 storeys in height. Planning Officials recommended the application be refused on a number of grounds – including non-conforming use within the Green Belt, inappropriate design, scale, height and footprint, damage to character of the area, location not in the vicinity of university or college facilities. The application was before the Committee on 25 May when consideration was continued to allow a site inspection. The application is back on the agenda for the meeting on 8 June 2016.

The following update was received from CALA Homes:

Fairmilehead Community Council Update June 2016

General 1. The works to form the pathway between the development site and Buckstone Howe are now completed. The path has been final surfaced and street lighting is now in place. The path will in time be adopted by the City of Edinburgh Council. The removal of the existing fence and the landscaping works are due to commence over the coming weeks. Consideration will require to be given to the best planting conditions taking account of weather. 2. To date a total of 165 (CALA 97 / David Wilson Homes 68) private properties have been occupied, missived or reserved. Of the 73 affordable properties 71 have been occupied, the remaining 2 are due to be occupied later this month. All of the CALA properties have now been occupied and there is no longer a sales presence on site. 3. The Consortium has now paid three Planning Gain contributions relating to Education. The final payment is not due until late summer 2017, however, through on‐going discussions with Councillor Aitken CALA and David Wilson have confirmed that we will make the final payment when the school receives planning for the proposed works, this is anticipated to be later this year, we trust this is welcome news. 4. David Wilson Homes have now commenced with the apartment product adjacent to the site entrance. These units will take approximately 12 months to complete. Planning 1. Clearance of Conditions completed with the exception of those relating to on‐going monitoring. Transport 1. Yellow lining on Buckstone Terrace is now complete following approval of the Traffic Regulation Order. 2. With regards to the signalised junction per previous correspondence the consortium have made payment (December 2013) to CEC to progress with the works.

12. Transport The Secretary informed the meeting that the top project on the roads and pavement maintenance additional budget was the north footway in Oxgangs Road from the dentist to the crossroads.

13. AOCB a) Community Council Elections The timetable for the elections is detailed above in Clrr Aitken’s report.

A question was raised regarding access to the Comiston Stable Block which was at present up for sale. It was believed that there was a right of way to the property via White Lady Walk.

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A member suggested inviting a representative from Edinburgh sustainable Development Partnership to a future meeting.

14. Date Of Next Meeting

This was arranged for Tuesday 6 September 2016 in Fairmilehead Parish Church.

Forthcoming Meetings:

Tuesday 4 October 2016 Tuesday 1 November 2016 Tuesday 6 December 2016

Contacts: e-mail: [email protected] Website: www.fairmileheadcc.org.uk

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Appendix A

Councillor Aitken’s Annual Report for 2015/16

Refuse Issues Complaints about missed collections have dominated my emails this year. All bin collections were affected and assisted uplifts were missed. Also, refuse collections were happening in the roads near schools when pupils are going to school. I also spoke about the reduction in frequency of service for street bins causing litter to be left beside them. I have had meetings with the Head of Waste Services to discuss how the service can be improved. I also spoke about the reduction in frequency of service for street bins causing litter to be left beside them. He advised on changes to rotas and a new route data management system which should improve service delivery

Schools The closures of the PPP1 schools were widely covered in the media and I raised issues about the process at Full Council, Pentland Neighbourhood Partnership and the Education, Children & Families Committee. The safety of the pupils was paramount but the closures caused great inconvenience for the parents, especially for those in work due to, at times, the extremely short notice.

The staff made decant arrangements swiftly and efficiently and I thank them for their speedy, professional actions. St Peter’s PS, Oxgangs PS, Braidburn Special School and Firrhill HS have now reopened and the remaining schools will return by the start of the new academic year.

Boroughmuir HS- Work on the new school is now well under way. Unfortunately, due to the adverse weather conditions earlier this year, the construction work on the new school building is behind schedule. Entry into the new building will now not happen until the start of the new term in January 2017. Once the building is completed. Staff and pupils will visit the school to become acquainted to the layout of the school

Buckstone PS  The Head Teacher, Mrs Palmer retired at Easter and a new appointment is imminent.  To help alleviate poor parking at the school, Buckstone was considered as part of the pilot for the Safe Streets project. This involved restricting vehicle movement in designated streets on the approach to the school. This went out for consultation but a large number of objections were lodged and the project proved to be too difficult to implement.  The school then participated in a Parksmart programme with pupils, which looked at parking in the roads around the school. This involved pupils, parents and staff in questionnaires and activities over 5 weeks.  A number of meetings and discussions were held to design a new hall funded by the section 75 agreement with Cala and David Wilson Homes. An information evening in May was attended by residents from neighbouring properties and a planning application will now be lodged.

Pentland PS - Parking has again been problematic and staff are considering a Parksmart programme with the Head Teachers and Parent Councils of St Marks and Oxgangs PS.

Firrhill HS- Sarah Brown, Head Teacher, moved to a school in Fife and Graeme Hamilton was appointed last autumn.

Roads I’ve requested consideration of:  Assessment for a Pedestrian Crossing in Biggar Road following two accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles in Biggar Road.  Replacement of the footpath on Oxgangs Road from Fairmile Avenue to the crossroads. I have asked that it be considered as a project for the next round of NEPS funding from the Neighbourhood Partnership.

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A number of TRO’s have been granted or are going through the legal process. East Camus Road, Mounthooly Loan, King Malcolm Close, Caiyside and Caiystane Terrace are among the locations which will have work undertaken to the roads or footpaths this year.

A new traffic island was installed in Braid Road. Parking too close to it caused vehicles to block the road so the white APM (Access protection marking) was extended.

I have received complaints about the speed of traffic in Buckstone Terrace and Biggar Road so I have requested that this be monitored.

New Crossing in Buckstone Terrace Cala and David Wilson Homes provided funding for a crossing as part of planning consent. A number of plans were considered and, eventually, Council officials circulated a letter and drawings of the location for the crossing and relocation of the bus stop to frontagers in Buckstone Terrace. I also delivered letters to residents in the new development and parts of Buckstone. The decision will be made later this year.

Waterfield Development Many residents new to Fairmilehead have moved into properties and have contacted me about a range of issues including refuse collections, the proposed crossing, breakfast clubs at schools and the path through to Buckstone Howe. The path is now complete and the lighting is working. The fence will be installed shortly.

Cala funded a new storage container for the youth groups which use the school playing field.

Planning  83, Pentland View – This was offered for sale following the closure of Pentland View Close Support Unit. The preferred bidder is Chamberlain Bell and representatives attended FCC to present their proposals for the site. The planning application has been lodged. A number of applications were made to Historic Environment Scotland to seek a listing for Comiston Farm House but were unsuccessful.  Aldi obtained planning consent for a store at Oxgangs Brae. A Stopping Up Order was required for the road in front of Oxgangs Library which attracted an objection. The issues raised by the objectors were addressed and the Order was granted. The sale is now complete and demolition of the existing buildings will take place soon. Attempted break ins and complaints about the deteriorating state of the Social Work building and St John’s Church resulted in the buildings being secured again.  The preferred bidder, Hopefield, has still to lodge a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) for the Hunter’s Tryst site.  The appeal by Cala for planning permission for housing on land 105m east of 48, Frogston Road West was unsuccessful.  Miller Homes have still to lodge a planning application for the land at Winton Gardens

Boundary Commission Consultation A consultation took place on proposals to change some of the Council wards and increase the number of Councillors. One of the suggestions was to move the Hailes roads from Colinton/Fairmilehead Ward to Pentland Hills Ward. The report was released after the election in May and the suggestion was rejected.

Thank you for all your support and encouragement throughout this year. I look forward to working with the new members after the Community Council election in September.

Community Meetings/Events Attended · Parent Council meetings at Buckstone. Pentland, Oxgangs and Colinton Primary Schools and Firrhill and Boroughmuir High Schools. · Firrhill Community Council meetings · Colinton Amenity Association meetings

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· Colinton Community Council meetings · Pentland Neighbourhood Partnership and South West Area Board · PNP Community Safety Sub Group Meetings (Chair) · Hope Triangle Health Action Group Meetings (Chair) · Regular meetings with Inspector Duthie. · Oxgangs Central Residents’ Association AGM · Oxgangs Lochan Residents' Association AGM · Colinton PS Got Talent · Boroughmuir HS Prizegiving · Opening of Braidburn Junior Playground · Marie Curie Fete · Sir William Y Darling Award Presentation · Braidburn Primary Christmas Concert · Meetings for the Oxgangs Gala Day · Rights Respecting School meetings at Colinton PS · Laid the wreath at Fairmilehead Church on Remembrance Sunday · Christmas Concerts at Firrhill and Boroughmuir HS · The presentation of the Sportscotland Gold Sports Award to Firrhill HS · AGM's - have attended Buckstone Association, Oxgangs Care, Pentland Community Centre, Colinton Mains Community Centre and Hope Triangle Health Action Group. · Art in the Park · Police Home Security Event · Buckstone, Oxgangs and Colinton Primary School Fairs · Braidburn Valley Park Family Fun Day · Buckstone Association AGM · Buckstone Youth Group and Project AGM · Children & Families Achievement Awards

Bailie Duties Citizenship Ceremonies Opening of European Day Evening News Despatch Trophy Presentation Benenden Healthcare Society Conference St Mark’s PS Awards Ceremony The Ceremony of the Keys EIF Performers’ Reception EIF Mass Opening of B&M Store Two 65th Wedding Anniversary Celebrations SELECT Electricals Conference Reception Riding of the Marches Reception High Constables’ Autumn Inspection 6VT 21St Anniversary Celebration Courtesy Call with the Romanian Ambassador Merchant Company Charter Dinner Centenary of the 1915 Midwives (Scotland) Act Girlguiding Review Robert Louis Stevenson Club Lunch Launch of Online Advent Calendar, Museum of Childhood Oxgangs Library 25th Anniversary Architectural Technician's Ball, Civic Welcome Salvation Army Carol Concert Gathering the Voices Exhibition Holocaust Memorial Day Event Sir Walter Scott Society Dinner The Edinburgh Lecture Riding of the Marches Intro Night High Constables' AGM 12 © Fairmilehead Community Council

Scotland/Malawi Partnership Edinburgh Medical Missionary Society Exhibition Scottish Community Drama Association Reception Street Pastor’s Commissioning Service Edinburgh Evening News Despatch Trophy Presentation

Committee Membership · Health, Social Care & Housing Committee · Edinburgh Integration Joint Board (EIJB) · EIJB Audit & Risk Committee · Education, Children & Families Committee · Gaelic Medium Education Working Group · Third Party Grants Working Group · Police and Fire Scrutiny Committee · Personnel Appeals · Head Teacher Recruitment · Regulatory Committee and Licensing Sub Committee · Education Standards Sub Committee · Affordable Housing Sounding Board · Tenant Participation Working Group · Jean F Watson Bequest Fund · Merchant Company Endowment Trust · Friends of Boroughmuir Trust · John Wilson Robert Christie Bequest Fund · Pentland Community Safety Action Group (Chair) · Festival City Theatre Trust · Lifecare

Elaine Aitken June 2016

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Appendix B

Fairmilehead Community Council

Secretary’s Report for May 2015 to May 2016

This report covers the period from the last AGM in May 2015 to May 2016.

There have been 11 meetings of the Community Council in that period with an average attendance of 31 persons and 6 apologies at each meeting. Compared to some other community councils this is an excellent figure.

The highest attendance at a meeting was in April this year when over 80 persons were present for part of the meeting. This was when we had the developer and architect present to discuss the proposals for 83 Pentland View. The second highest attendances were in September last year when the planning application for Winton Gardens was discussed. This was equalled by the attendance last month when we learnt about Edinburgh’s Living Landscapes The lowest attendance at one of our meetings has been 20.

We have had guest speakers at 6 of our meetings and in addition to those mentioned above we have had speakers informing us about the rural deer project, place making standards, and a brief visit from the Brownies displaying their communication skills. Our MP, Ian Murray was not normally able to attend our meetings as they coincided with Westminster sittings but he provides regular reports.

There has been an average of 6 pieces of correspondence mentioned per meeting although a lot of correspondence is dealt with electronically being forwarded to members, the mailing list or those with a particular interest in the subject matter. For instance information relating to youth matters is forwarded to the Youth Project amongst others.

I also circulate an electronic news bulletin when necessary usually with time limited information or items of interest that arise between meetings.

Issues we have dealt with have been diverse including the usual problems pertaining to waste, parking, roads, transport and planning issues. One item that is still ongoing despite our best efforts is a solution to the siting of the light controlled pedestrian at Waterfield Road.

On planning we are still awaiting a decision on the Local Development Plan which is still being considered by the Reporters appointed by the Scottish Government. Depending on the result of the Inquiry it could have implications for the green belt and some major proposed planning applications.

Our planning officer, Colin Anderson, provides us with regular updates on planning issues as well as other items such as the Civic Forum and the George Street traffic proposals amongst others.

Another local concern has been the high number of housebreakings in the area. Our comments and concerns have been pursued with the local politicians and the local police inspector. We have Council funded community officers attend our meetings to give keep us up to date with crime trends and give crime prevention advice.. To address concerns Police Scotland in conjunction with the Community Council hosted a very well attended home security event in St Fillans at the beginning of March.

Other local concerns have also been raised with our Councillors, who are regular attendees at our meeting, MSP and our MP. Where necessary concerns or issues are also raised with the police or City Council.

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There have been regular updates and reports from our Councillors, MP, Police and the Youth Project.

Being the representative from Fairmilehead Community Council on the Pentlands Neighbourhood Partnership I report on the meetings of the Partnership and raise our concerns there. I also regularly report on the Funding Panel and try to encourage as many qualifying local organisations as possible to apply for a grant. I and others sit on the various sub groups of the Partnership.

Members also represent the community council on other organisations such as the Pentland Hills Regional Park Consultative Forum, the Civic Forum, the Licensing Forum and many others.

About 90% of the work of the Community Council is undertaken out with the public meetings. In this electronic age a lot of the business is conducted by e-mail.

The website continues to attract visitors with an average of about 500 page views per month or 16 daily average. Over the last 12 months there have been 6002 page views and 3683 unique visits (10 daily average) and 3051 first time visits 8 daily average).

The website is a useful addition to communicating with the persons and families from, and moving into, the local area as well as those from further afield or who have ties in the area. It is however not been refreshed since it was built several years ago and is getting what is called technically clunky. I am looking around for a suitable modern, cheap replacement which will be easy to maintain.

Finally if anybody has any suggestions for, or knows of, speakers or topics for future meetings can you please let me know.

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