Issue 10 Summer 2011

Wedding belles grace refurbished town hall ...more on page 5 Work set to begin on new Council houses Council houses are set to be Work will begin at the end of towards addressing the serious A central element of the project homes for older people will built in July this year and is expected to imbalance we face between is the continued regeneration be provided at the current for the first time in over 30 last 17 months. genuine housing need and the of the Newmills/Orchard area Dalmore Centre, Alva. There availability of Council houses. of Tullibody begun by Ochil will be four one-bedroom and years. Council leader Sam Ovens said: They will also be affordable, View Housing Association. The four two-bedroom houses. “Clackmannanshire Council is The £2.3 million project will energy efficient and accessible. Council will construct 16 new The Dalmore Centre, which committed to providing quality, see 24 new houses being The last houses built for rent 2-bedroom houses for rent on is a former infant school, was affordable housing for the built in Tullibody and Alva. by the Council were in the site currently occupied by listed last year and ongoing people of Clackmannanshire. This funding includes a in the mid 70s, so this decision lock ups at 80-98 Newmills. feasibility work for the site is These new homes are contribution of £600,000 from marks a new era for social subject to detailed discussions desperately needed and And eight much needed the Scottish Government. housing in Clackmannanshire.” with Historic . they will just be the first step

Inside VIEW...

Top athletes p3 Education awards p3 Excellent school p7 New tennis club p7 Clackmannanshire VIEW Summer 2011

Libraries in Central Sco tland PAS S PO RT Electronic Name Address registration Library Passport Takes Home Library Authorised by

This card is not transfereable and is only valid when stamped on the reverse by your home library. Take this and your home library card or photo ID whenValid visiting until other LICS libraries. now available Details and a list of participating libraries at www.slainte.org.uk/lics The Electoral Registration Officer Readers to New Places (ERO) is offering electors the opportunity of registering to vote Clackmannanshire Council has supply what you need, you can now Service, Stirling Council Library home library service. The electronically. teamed up with other public visit other libraries in the region to Service, Falkirk Council Library passport provides access to libraries across central Scotland find the information or resources Service, Stirling University Library, each of the libraries in the Each year the ERO has to send to create a new Library Passport you are looking for. Forth Valley College Library and the scheme, but at this stage each a voter registration enquiry to scheme. This new scheme gives Dementia Services Development library service will decide its every address and it is a legal The passport scheme formalises library users access to a broader Centre. The passport also gives own policy on borrowing rights. requirement to respond to the existing arrangements between range of information and access to the National Library of In Clackmannanshire we have enquiry. a number of libraries in central resources across the Forth Valley Scotland in Edinburgh. decided to grant full borrowing Scotland. The passport provides Forms will be posted out to those area. Whether you are following rights, including books, to anyone access to the following public, The passport takes the form of a who have not already supplied an educational course or just presenting a Passport and Home academic and health libraries: small credit card-sized card and their email addresses by 31st pursuing a special interest of Library ticket. Access will also be Clackmannanshire Council Library will be issued by the borrower’s August which you can reply to your own, if your own library can’t given to the Web4U computers. by email, telephone or text. If you respond by email and supply your contact email address you will be emailed in future years. Improving our environment The ERO estimates that he can save at least 50p per household These are challenging times, and with increasing pressure on budgets, through this initiative and we’ve had to seek new and innovative ways to deliver services and Did you know? Did you know? with over 23,700 addresses in support the people of Clackmannanshire. Our Corporate Priorities, Despite the extreme winter We removed 100% of abandoned weather, and reducing from 2 to vehicles within 14 days. Clackmannanshire the savings developed in consultation with local people, include a commitment to 1 electricians, 89% of street light could be considerable. With print maintaining and improving our beautiful environment. and postage costs increasing and repairs were completed within 7 days, slightly below the target of individual voter registration due Did you know? Did you know? 90%. The weather also impacted on While we have strong results in to start in 2014 the more people The Council processed 95% Our streets are getting cleaner. housing repairs, but improvements many areas, there are some areas who supply their email address of householder planning Having scored 74 (out of 100) in in performance in the spring months which still require improvement. the more can be saved. applications and 84% of non- the Street Cleanliness Index for resulted in 96% being completed on Our ‘Growing in Excellence’ householder applications within the last 2 years (which was also To participate, send an email to target. programme ensures that we are [email protected] the 2 month target time last year. the Scottish average), in 2010/11 better placed than ever to address giving your home address, name We are consistently ranked 1st in we achieved a score of 77. This these issues. We constantly review Scotland for processing planning is a very positive result, and is Did you know? and your email address. We’re constantly seeking ways how we work, introduce new applications. rarely achieved by a ‘semi-rural’ initiatives, and work with partners Please remember to notify the to reduce our own consumption Council. and communities to ensure that ERO when you move home as of gas, electricity and water, and Did you know? Clackmannanshire is an attractive you will need to apply to register indications are that we have We continue to reduce the amount Did you know? and sustainable area for everyone. at your new address as soon as of biodegradable waste sent to The number of streets with succeeded in this in 2010/11. possible so you can vote in future landfill, sending 10,585 tonnes - graffiti reduced from 13.1% in elections and not have your credit nearly 1,000 tonnes less than last 2009/10 to 9.5% in 2010/11. rating reduced. year. We’ve been ranked 1st in There was also no racist graffiti More information at Scotland for recycling in 4 of the reported to the Council during Picture your vision of www.saa.gov.uk/central last 5 years, and were 3rd in the the year. other year. Clackmannanshire Members of every community in Clackmannanshire took the opportunity to get involved Doorstep Crime Booklet Launched and help to shape the Council’s vision for the future. A new advice booklet has been published by the Clackmannanshire Doorstep Crime The Council was ‘on the road’ Partnership containing information on how to feel safe and secure in your home. for 70 days with 18 events held for the Local Development Plan The Partnership has developed a Community Safety Partnership said: door then you should report it to Main Issues Report consultation. strong message ‘Safe and Secure, “The booklet has been produced the Police or Trading Standards. We’d like to say thank you to the Open when Sure’. by the group and highlights simple The booklet and sticker are hundreds of people who turned steps that can be taken to avoid Door stickers have been produced available from libraries and out to these events and for your becoming the victim of doorstep with this message CAP offices or you can obtain views, comments, input and crime, whilst also anecdotes. Many more people on them which are one by contacting Stirling and providing useful local submitted written comments. A Clackmannanshire Alliance Doorstep Crime Partnership Partners: Doorstep Advice widelyClackmannanshire Council, Central Scotland available. Police, Central Scotland Clackmannanshire Trading Fire Service, Care and Repair, Age Scotland, Association of Scottish Neighbourhood Watches, Central Community Council, Alva Clackmannanshire Alliance contact details.” summary of all representations Community Council, Tillicoultry Community Council, Clackmannan TheTenants and Residents aim Federation, Tullibody, ofCambus and Glenochil the Doorstep Crime Partnership Standards on 01786 443322. Community Council received is available on the sticker is to act as a It is always important The Clackmannanshire Doorstep Council’s website (www.clacksweb. reminder to people to be cautious about Safe and Secure, Crime Partnership involves org.uk) where you can also find into account issues like climate as they answer their open when sure agreeing to buy goods The partnership would also like a newsletter which provides an to thank Stirling Doorstep Crime Clackmannanshire Council’s change. Partnership for their help in door,the production of tothis only answer or services on your booklet. Trading Standards Team, Central overview of the process and when you are sure doorstep or allowing As part of the consultation Scotland Police, Care and Repair, the comments received. Copies of the person who is people you don’t know exercise the Council held on Age Scotland and a number of of the full representations are on your doorstep. into your home. If you online photography competition Community Councils. available to view at the Council are suspicious about called ‘My Clackmannanshire’. We Copies Clackmannanshire Doorstep of Crime Partnership the Clackmannanshire Doorstep Crime Partnership offices at Kilncraigs and, in most anyone that calls at your cases, electronic versions can be received over 400 entries and the booklet are also emailed. winning image was this stunning widely available. photo of Clackmannan Tower The booklet aims to inform and Photo shows: Left to right - All of the comments received (above) taken by Jon Marshall who empower people, helping them to Gordon Wilson Central Scotland will be fully considered by the received a prize of an iPod Touch. feel confident in their own home. Police, Lindsay McNeil Trading officers preparing the Proposed This winning photo will feature in The booklet also contains contact Standards, John Gillespie Head Development Plan which we hope the designed version of the Local details for a number of agencies of Community and Regulatory to publish for consultation early in Development Plan along with who can offer advice and support Services at Clackmannanshire 2012. some of the runners-up. Council, and Doreen Harvey, in relation to doorstep crime. Margaret Malcolm and The Local Development Plan will For more information the Superintendent Alan Douglas, George Horsburgh from Alva encourage inward investment and Development Plan please email Chair of Clackmannanshire Community Council. create jobs in Clackmannanshire, [email protected] or call while at the same time take 01259 450000. Page 2 Summer 2011 Clackmannanshire VIEW Meggan and Martyn are going places thanks to the Community Chest Two of Clackmannanshire’s Meggan, who lives in Tullibody with Martyn is currently looking talented young athletes have mum Kirstie and dad John, said: “I train forward to the British received grants from the six days a week, with two sessions championships at Bedford Community Chest to help them a day. I’m doing a combinations of and the Scottish senior and achieve their dreams. work on rollers at home, on the track junior championships at at Glasgow and Grangemouth, on the Scotstoun. Wheelchair racer Meggan Dawson- local cycle tracks and in the gym at Farrell (18) and New Year Sprint “I travel to Pitreavie six days Stirling University, pushing between a week to train with my winner Martyn Paterson (18) have 10k and 15k a day.” each received sponsorship from coach Eric Simpson. I really Meggan has used the Community appreciate the funding. It the Clackmannanshire Community Paul Sutton and John McGirr Chest. Chest funding to buy a new pair of will make a huge difference. racing wheels for her chair. I’ve spent it on new spikes present cheques from the The Community Chest is made Community Chest “The racing chair and wheels cost and travelling expenses. I’ve possible through the generosity of been involved in sport for a to Meggan and Martyn. local companies Sterling Furniture as much as a new car so I really appreciate the funding from the long time and have never and Sterling Mills, and is administered A second year accountancy student at 2014 Commonwealth Games in Community Chest. I’m currently on had any funding before,” he said. by the Council. The fund has been Stirling University, Martyn added that Glasgow. going for 12 years and in that time the look-out for a new sponsor after As well as the financial support, he is looking forward to being able to The Community Chest is open to has handed out £163,000 to local receiving support from OI last year,” Martyn says he appreciates the train on the new 400m athletics track any individual, community group good causes. she said. support of his family - mum Helene, at Lornshill, his former school. or voluntary organisation which is Meggan’s plans for the rest of the year dad Gordon, a former international Former Alloa Academy pupil Martyn now has his sights set on locally based, or provides a service include a few more half marathons steeplechaser, and grandad John - Meggan, made her half marathon who go everywhere with him. making the Scottish team for the in Clackmannanshire. debut at Silverstone earlier this year including the Glasgow Half Marathon and achieved the qualifying time in September, working towards the To find out more about the Community Chest and to download an application form go to www.clacksweb.org.uk/community/ to compete in the 2012 London London Marathon next year. communitychest/. Application forms are also available from Greenfield reception. Marathon. Martyn, who lives in Clackmannan, is She followed that up with a good 10k currently concentrating on the 400m time of 35.57 at the Great Manchester and 800m having won the 142nd Educational Support Worker Run, beating her hero Tanni Grey- New Year Sprint at Musselburgh Thompson by 4 minutes. Racecourse for which he received the Eric Liddell Memorial Trophy. In 2010 Meggan achieved staggering is Top of the Class improvements in her times across “I have been working on continually Jane Edwards, an educational After the summer the board from 100m to 1500m: improving my 400m time and want holiday, the improvements she puts down to a to get under 48 seconds this year,” support worker at West Dollarbeg children returned new coach, Ian Mirfin, and a new said Martyn, who has a range of good Farm, picked up a prestigious to harvest their training programme. times from 200m to 800m. award at the Scottish Education Awards 2011, which recognise crops and sold excellence in Scottish education. their potatoes at a local food festival. She collected the coveted Kilncraigs plan progresses The money they Educational Supporter of the earned was used staff into the town centre, assisting it Year Award at a glittering award The Council’s plans to relocate to buy more all staff into one building have commercial vitality and viability. ceremony in Glasgow, after judges compost and seeds to continue their Eleanor has been based in taken a step forward. selected her as a worthy winner for work on the farm. Tillicoultry since 2004 and her high “The Kilncraigs development her work with Strathdevon Primary level of energy and commitment Last year the Council agreed to comes on the back of the hugely School in Dollar. Jane’s enthusiasm and generosity has progress a project which will successful Imagine Alloa project allowed the pupils at Strathdevon is demonstrated everyday in her eventually see all Council staff which transformed the town centre. Jane gives Strathdevon pupils the develop their planning, team- teaching and involvement in currently based at Greenfield and It is also happening alongside the opportunity to visit her farm where working and communication skills, the ethos of the school. She had Lime Tree House being relocated opening of the new Forth Valley they can learn about farming and whilst encouraging them to explore developed PE and sport within carry out a range of tasks. From to Kilncraigs. This plan will make College campus, the work to create and consider the environment. the school and runs numerous this the pupils gain hands-on use of the currently empty 1936 a modern library and customer sports clubs and teams including experience and can contribute to Jane was joined at the event by building and Paton’s School. service centre at the Speirs Centre, gymnastics, cross country, the maintenance of the land. Jane Eleanor McGlashan, a physical Alloa Town Hall’s refurbishment basketball, badminton, athletics, A Property Developer Project gives up her time to educate the education teacher at Tillicoultry and the new state-of-the-art dental cricket, and rugby. Manager and design team have children and works closely with Primary School who was shortlisted centre which is coming to Drysdale now been appointed to undertake pupils to share her expertise and by the judges for the Lifetime Michael Russell, Cabinet Secretary Street. I am positive that our faith the design and feasibility exercise resources. Achievement Award. for Education and Lifelong Learning, and we are now seeking to appoint in the town centre will encourage said: “These awards have again Last year, Jane gave P3 pupils Eleanor started her work with contractors to deliver this multi- others, particularly those in the given us the chance to highlight the opportunity to develop their Clackmannanshire Council in 1989 million pound project. private sector, to invest and make the work that takes place on ground understanding of the world of work as the only peripatetic primary PE Alloa a better place to visit and do teacher in the area. Travelling and that often goes unrecognised. Council leader Sam Ovens said: and commerce. The children were business.” working throughout 20 primary I’d like to congratulate this year’s “This major initiative shows the given their own area of land within schools, Eleanor created a PE winners. They are an example to Council’s commitment to the The Kilncraigs project, which is the farm where they prepared the programme that she delivered with the whole of Scottish education.” ongoing regeneration of Alloa subject to final Council approval, land and planted vegetables, wild support from primary teachers. Town Centre, particularly during is expected to take flowers and fruit trees. The pupils Clackmannanshire Councillor the current economic downturn. up to two years then gave guided tours to members In 2000, Eleanor joined the sports George Matchett, Inclusion Portfolio This is an opportunity to cut the to complete and of the local community to display development team one day a Holder, said: “I’m delighted that two cost of running three corporate will create job the work being done at the farm. week and was instrumental in Clackmannanshire nominees were buildings in Alloa, while creating o p p o r t u n i t i e s creating the vision and finalists at these coveted awards a modern, efficient and flexible during the con- initiating an improvement and my congratulations go to working environment for our staff. struction phase. in the educational Jane for winning the Educational It will bring new opportunities for The plan will opportunities for all pupils in Supporter of the Year Award. streamlined working as well as deliver savings Clackmannanshire. Eleanor creating over 100 jobs during the and efficiencies worked alongside Active “In Clackmannanshire, we work hard construction phase. as well as Schools co-ordinators to to make sure schools are part of the improve provide support, advice and community, supporting happy, “This plan represents a multi-million c u s t o m e r an understanding on how active and creative students. Both pound investment in the town service in the schools work and strategy Jane and Eleanor exemplify this and centre, bringing a large amount of long term. on how to develop the it’s important that we recognise partnership. their hard work and dedication.” Page 3 Clackmannanshire VIEW Summer 2011 Latest artwork inspired Woods by emergency to be services revitalised Two Alloa woodlands will be granted a new lease of life thanks to funding boosts totalling £70,000. Arns Brae Pleasure Grounds and the photos courtesy of Colin Smith © Gean woods will have new trees planted, footpaths built and access improved. The work follows successful applications The latest sculpture by internationally renowned artist Andy Scott has been by the Council to the Forestry installed on the Shillinghill roundabout as part of the Imagine Alloa project. Commission Scotland’s ‘Woodlands In and Around Towns’ fund and The sculpture, in Andy’s distinctive Protect Support Lift Up’ have been the Clackmannanshire and Stirling metalwork, depicts a giant hand supporting laser-cut from 16mm steel plate and Environment Trust. a woman and child and has been inspired individually welded onto the sculpture in a by the service provided by the blue light pattern decided by Jim, which spreads up the The existing Arns Brae Pleasure Grounds, services in the area. back of the hand section of the artwork. which welcomes visitors to Alloa arriving from the east, will be restored to a mixed At just under eight metres high, this is the Andy said: “I asked Jim to be involved once I had been asked to create the artwork and native ornamental woodland, while artist’s largest work in Clackmannanshire and maintaining the existing mature copses his sixth in the area. had developed the basic theme and narrative I was trying to capture. Jim and I discussed of trees. The new sculpture has been paid for by the the concept therein and created a simple but Public access to the Pleasure Grounds, Scottish Government-funded Imagine Alloa very effective piece of text. This was then laser which offer a fantastic panoramic view project with a contribution from Forth Valley cut from steel plates and the actual words are of the River Forth, will be improved. The College, whose new campus overlooks the incorporated into the artwork, in this instance paths, in particular the core path linking Shillinghill roundabout. arranged up the back of the hand of the two residential areas of Alloa, will be Councillor Eddie Carrick, Porfolio Holder sculpture. upgraded to encourage more people to for Sustainability, said: “This sculpture is “I asked Jim to decide where the words should use this area for walking. a beautiful addition to the other popular be placed, and we agreed mutually on the Tree work should start on site in works by Andy Scott and others across typeface to be used. I very much enjoy the September and path and drainage Clackmannanshire. With six of his artworks in creative discussions with him regarding the works in October. such a concentrated area, I hope that people use of written language alongside the will identify Clackmannanshire with public sculptural, and having another artist’s Funding will also be used for access art and Andy Scott in particular. Andy’s brief interpretation adds a new creative dimension improvements and the control of non- was about representing helping hands in to the process for me.” native species found in the woodland which surrounds Gean House. the community, which he’s done, taking the Andy’s five other sculptures in shape of the giant hand from the gauntlet Clackmannanshire have attracted wide praise The first of Andy Scott’s sculptures was The house and woods were named after on Clackmannanshire’s coat of arms. This and this latest addition is already becoming a installed in Clackmannanshire in 2007. the abundant wild cherry trees in the new work also develops themes which flow area and these will be enjoyed by far popular landmark. Andy said: “I have had a very positive through the other artworks which can be more visitors once the improvements Councillor Carrick added: “I would like to experience working with Clackmannanshire seen nearby.” are carried out. thank all the companies who have made Council over these few projects. I think Andy has named this latest sculpture ‘Lifeline’ these works of public art possible. It is part of the Council are to be applauded for Check the Council’s website ClacksWeb - a name he came up with in collaboration normal planning requirements for significant the integration of visual artworks into for more information over the autumn with one of Scotland’s most renowned developments to contribute towards public Clackmannanshire’s landscape and towns. months about how you can get involved poets Jim Carruth. Appropriate text by Jim art and we have been lucky enough to enjoy Not just my creations of course...I know in supporting these improvement works. has been incorporated into the sculpture. a construction boom in recent years which has there have been many other projects There will be opportunities to take part The words ‘Life-line Reach out Hold led to these important assets being erected at initiated and I believe they all add a new in activities such as ‘rhoddy bashing’ and C l o s e C r a d l e C u s h i o n S h e l t e r various sites across the county.” and exciting dimension to the area.” fire wood will be available to collect. New Alloa Campus Smart House to Transform Lives A vacant bungalow has been On the Horizon converted into a ‘Smart House’ to transform disabled peoples’ The wait is nearly over… always been to create a ‘community lives. Forth Valley College will college’ for the 21st century bringing The Council receiving funding from people from all walks of life together. open its new Alloa Campus in hi‑tech gym and industry standard the Scottish Government’s Telecare The new campus will provide hair and beauty salons. programme to create the Smart September this year. excellent opportunities for gaining needs to be, helping to improve a House. Social services staff worked disabled person’s independence and The new campus is part of a qualifications and skills across a The support of local organisations with colleagues from the NHS, a increase their safety. college wide estates strategy range of programmes and flexible and businesses, and significantly specialist advisor and an electronics with plans to develop across all delivery, attracting school leavers, Clackmannanshire Council, firm to rewire and completely refit the The Smart House is being used by campuses. In 2008, the College adults and mature learners as well as has been essential throughout Cambus bungalow to ensure that it is people with physical disabilities and received £50million from the offering a portfolio of programmes the project. Excellent working suitable for people with all types of a high level of need to assess their Scottish Funding Council (SFC) to and training for local businesses. relationships have been estab- physical disability. needs and help determine what lished through Clackmannanshire build new campuses in Alloa and The new facility will totally trans- support is needed in their own home. Alliance, and a range of The property contains a huge range Stirling and the project is now form the learner experience with This is particularly relevant to people specific initiatives such as the of gadgets and smart technology nearing its first major milestone the campus boasting modern who have acquired a disability and Clackmannanshire Employment hard-wired into every room of the with the Alloa opening now teaching spaces, state-of-the‑art are about to leave hospital. It is also Strategy. This strong partnership two-bedroomed house which can be imminent. workshops and all the latest suitable for people who live with and collaborative approach programmed to match the individual family and are looking for more The college will move from resources. The heart of the building continues to bring mutual benefits needs of service users. The technology independence like disabled young Branshill Road to the heart of the boasts a bright and inspiring to the College, Clackmannanshire is far beyond equipment that can be adults who are looking to move into town centre over the summer. student resource centre with floor Council and its partners. plugged in to enable independent their own home. This prominent position is ideally to ceiling windows taking full living. The smart technology is built located next to main transport links advantage of the stunning views. For all the latest updates into the very fabric of the building to People with physical disabilities can and will increase accessibility for all College wide facilities on offer will and photos, please visit ensure that, as needs of users change, also use the house for respite breaks. learners. The college’s vision has include a comfortable canteen a www.forthvalley.ac.uk/building_your_future the house can be as response as it The house is suitable for staff training Page 4 Summer 2011 Clackmannanshire VIEW Town Hall’s Splendour Restored The second year of a four year programme to refurbish Alloa Town Hall is complete. The work to renovate the interior of the building, which dominates the town centre, was completed on schedule and on budget. This followed the first year of the programme when the roof, guttering, downpipes and ironwork was overhauled. Alloa Town Hall is a ‘C’ listed building and the Council will invest to total of £750,000 over four years in restoring the building’s splendour in order to maximise its potential as a community venue. Further external improvements carried out this year have included resurfacing the access road, improved landscaping and cleaning the surrounding paving. The Town Hall has many fine architectural details including the magnificent tiled staircase and mosaic floor tiling. These have been meticulously cleaned and new lighting show these features in their full glory. The centrepiece of the building is the imposing main hall, which originally “It is intended that the hall will be housed Alloa’s first public library. busier and more popular than ever The improvements to the main hall The bar has been removed from either in the Registration Office the first floor for the first time. The following the refurbishment. We are include complete redecoration and what is now the ‘blue room’ to make in Alloa, or in certain designated Council also plans to fully replace extremely proud of the work that the heating has also been upgraded. the room more flexible. halls such as Alloa Town Hall, or the heating system as well as restore we are doing in Clackmannanshire Performance lighting, a new sound in another approved venue. Alloa the mosaic flooring. to provide facilities for the local Low energy lighting has been system, and two large, wall-mounted Town Hall has a choice of rooms community. Restored to its former installed throughout the building When the hall first opened there glory, the town hall can once again televisions have also been installed. that can accommodate ceremonies and the stained glass window on were science rooms and art studios fulfill its role as the heart of civic The floor has been sanded and of between 50 and 160 people, and the first floor has been repaired. in the roofspace and the Council and community life. Residents and varnished, new carpets have been receptions for up to 200. also plans to refurbish these rooms visitors have the opportunity to hire laid, new stage and window curtains The majority of the work was carried Plans for the future of the hall to allow more community use. these unique facilities which offer have been hung and the chairs on out by the Council’s own trades include installing a stair lift in the the area a prestigious performance, the balcony have been recovered. people except for the very specialist Councillor Eddie Carrick, stairwell to allow disabled access to conference, banqueting and event A new bar has been installed and a work. Sustainability Portfolio Holder, said: space.” new floor has been laid on the stage. All the ‘behind the scenes’ rooms One of the first events to be held in have been redecorated with new the hall after the refurbishment was lighting and new carpets. a Wedding Show and the hall was ‘dressed’ to show how it could look Improvements to The two public rooms on the first for a couple’s big day. floor have also been redecorated and new carpets have been fitted. Civil marriages can be conducted Cycle Network

Cyclists can now enjoy a And with the help of SUSTRANS and Katherine Soane, Project officer smoother journey on the Diageo, we have plans to create a with Sustrans Scotland, said: Smart House to Transform Lives local cycle network with the new cycle route following the course “Sustrans is delighted to be of the former railway line between supporting Clackmannanshire all designed to give as much privacy, completion of improvement Cambus and Menstrie. Council in the creation of a fantastic independence and freedom as works. legacy of a network of active Councillor Eddie Carrick, possible to the client. travel routes across the council’s The Council has recently resurfaced Sustainability Portfolio Holder, said: area. Most of the communities in However, despite all the technology, the entire six miles of the Devon “The only way we can change travel Clackmannanshire have at least one the Smart House is first and foremost Way from Alloa to Tillicoultry. The behaviour is by making walking and route running through them, these a home-from-home and maintains a work was made possible thanks to cycling more comfortable which is routes that can be by everyone as homely environment. support from sustainable transport why, over the past five years, we have and demonstrations and has already they make their daily journeys by charity SUSTRANS. spent around £750,000 improving been visited by professionals from The staff who were involved in the foot or bike, these allow physical local cycle routes. Thanks goes to other local authorities. design of the house have taken every The Devon Way is part of the activity to become part of everyday SUSTRANS who have provided opportunity to support well-being National Cycle Network, number life be this through walking to The house contains responsive and around half of that funding and to and promote independence for 767, which links Clackmannanshire school, cycling to the station or predictive technology and there are Diageo who have allow us to use physically disabled people with a high to neighbouring Fife and Stirling. enjoying a breath of a fresh air, presence detectors in each room their land. Cycling offers a good level of need. making Clackmannanshire a - lights work automatically and The Council is now working to alternative to the private car for healthier place to live. This year we household equipment such as the The second bedroom is the only room improve part of the ‘Round the short to medium length journeys - it have been funding works between TV, phone and even the doors are in the house which is not wheelchair Forth’ cycle route at Cambus. Once has no impact on the environment, Cambus and Tullibody, within controlled by easy-to-operate pads. accessible and is suitable for a carer or complete, cyclists will be able to is relatively affordable and can Alloa and between Fishcross and The house can also be monitored family member to use if needed. ride from Dunfermline, through contribute to improving the health remotely ensuring client safety. Other Clackmannanshire as far as the Tillicoultry, and we are looking to Councillor Janet Cadenhead, of Clackmannanshire’s population.” visible features include: door intercom, Manor Powis roundabout on be funding more works next year, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, adapted kitchen, fully equipped the outskirts of Stirling. so look out for new works coming said: “I am delighted and proud bedroom with a ceiling track hoist, an soon!” that Clackmannanshire Council has electronic profile bed with pressure created this Smart House to help relief mattress and Hydrotilt chair. people with a high level of need to be The spacious bathroom contains a more independent in their own home, Clos-o-Mat toilet, shower and bath as well as providing respite.” Page 5 Clackmannanshire VIEW Summer 2011 The Scottish Social Housing Charter Fun at the Delph Pond Improvements the Council has Did you know the Scottish • The increasing requirement for made at the Delph Pond have Government is developing social landlords to review and been given the thumbs up by a Scottish Social Housing enhance their support offerings. the local community. Charter? This includes supporting those who are threatened A questionnaire was handed out The Charter will come into effect with homelessness (to help at a recent environmental fun day in April 2012 and will set out the sustain tenancies), tenants with held at the Pond and the results standards and results that social complex support needs, tenants show that local people are pleased landlords across Scotland should experiencing or perpetrating with the improved footpaths, be achieving for their tenants. anti social behaviour, and to youth shelter and new picnic The Scottish Government requires assist young tenants in their first tables and the area is being used your help to get the charter right tenancy. more as a result. • Regular and relevant comm- and views can be submitted online The Delph Pond is located between unication. Tenants want at http://housingcharter.scotland. Delph Wynd, Alloa Road and Delph evidence that we follow through gov.uk. Clackmannanshire Council Road in Tullibody. The area consists hosted a consultation event with on agreed actions via feedback of a pond with wildlife habitat, a tenants and residents to get and information. children’s park, a multi-use games feedback which we have used These comments have been fed area, a youth shelter, seating areas to produce a Clackmannanshire back to the Scottish Government in and plenty of green open space. response to the consultation. a consultation response document. Some key points emerged from A formal consultation on the first It was in this space that an Easter the event. These included: charter will be led by the Scottish weekend event was held with Government over the summer and many agencies getting together • A more transparent Housing Clackmannanshire Council will be to create an environmental fun Revenue Account to provide hosting further consultation events day. The Delph Pond Forum wish more information to tenants at this time. More information will to extend a big thank you to all on how the rent is spent on be available on ClacksWeb and in those who took part on the day services. our local offices. and helped make the event such a success. Joint Landlord Housing The questionnaire also asked Coming Soon people about future improve- Following the success of the Easter environmental event, we are ments to the area and the Council holding a Family Fun Day on 10th September. Attractions include a is currently considering the Conference woodland storyteller, DJ and face painting. Look out for posters with suggestions. A copy of the Delph more information. If you want to get involved in the Delph Pond Forum pond questionnaire (for reference) or if you are interested in helping out at future events, please contact proves a big hit and the results are available on Michelle Flynn on 01259 452404 or email [email protected] ClacksWeb. The joint landlord Housing person play on antisocial behaviour Conference held on 19th April 2011 and how it affects people. It looked also proved to be a big success. at this from both sides and aimed Tenants, residents and staff of Forth to create a better understanding of Valley landlords Clackmannanshire the complex issues involved. Go Walkabout with Housing Staff Council, Falkirk Council, Link, One participant said: “I thought the Ochil View and Paragon Housing Our housing staff are constantly out and about, play was really good –it was very Are you interested in joining our Associations met up in Falkirk but these walkabouts are a formal chance for emotional and it helped me to think staff on a walkabout of your Municipal Buildings to discuss tenants and residents to accompany senior about how things that happen in housing matters including the estate? staff, community constables and elected people’s lives can influence their Scottish Government’s proposals members and give feedback. behaviour. It also showed that We want you to be proud of where you live for a Scottish Social Housing things like communicating with and during the walkabouts you can help us Charter. During the walkabouts, staff look out for your neighbours can improve identify things that could be improved so we environmental problems such as neglected Julie Strain Tenancy Services situations.” can ensure your neighbourhood is clean, tidy gardens, broken fences, litter, missing drain Manager commented: “I was and a place where people want to live, work The feedback from the joint event covers and fly tipping. All findings are recorded delighted to see a great turn and play. will be collated and reported back and reported for action. out from tenants and staff of all The walkabouts are held twice a year, in the to the Scottish Government. For further information about these inspections the landlords to take part in this spring and autumn and the next round will be call 01259 450000, email [email protected] very important discussion as the If you would like to get involved from 15th August to 30th September. Charter will be a key influence on in future events or want more or check the events diary on ClacksWeb. how landlords will deliver services information on the Charter, in future.” please contact Michelle Flynn by Naomi Breeze of Breeze email [email protected] or Productions, performed a one by telephoning 01259 450000. Services, not buildings, our priority This is an unprecedented period of change for Clackmannanshire We are committed to engaging with Council and the public sector as a whole across Scotland. communities about these forthcoming changes and that process is already Our agreed budget strategy After payroll costs, the largest underway in Tillicoultry, the first of eight involves making savings of at least outlay for the public sector is the ‘settlements’ we are going to consider in £13m over the period 2011-2014 amount spent on the ownership this property review. and that means we are having to and upkeep of premises. In order do things differently, stop some to protect and enhance frontline The next ‘settlement’ area we will be looking services and charge for others. services we will have to reduce the at will be Tullibody & Cambus, followed by: number of buildings we own and • Menstrie The Council’s ambitious change maintain. The Council has carried • Dollar & Muckhart programme is underway and we are out a review of all the properties we • Alva again asking for the community’s own to appraise whether they are • Sauchie & Clackmannan help in shaping the future of public providing value for money. • Alloa services in Clackmannanshire. • Fishcross, Coalsnaughton & Devonside

Page 6 Summer 2011 Clackmannanshire VIEW Muckhart is an Excellent School

various partners, including local businesses, which enrich children’s learning. Judy swings in to Headteacher Helen Finch is described as providing “high- relaunch tennis club quality, strategic leadership.” She manages change very well and is Muckhart is a primary school with high attainment levels where highly regarded by children and children really enjoy their learning, according to a report by HM parents, staff and the community. Inspectorate of Education. She said: “We are all very proud The school received two ‘Excellents’ The sense of community amongst of our school and to be the first and three ‘Very Goods’ for the five staff, parents, children and others school in Clackmannanshire to be aspects the inspectors evaluated. who work together to enhance awarded ‘Excellents’ by Inspectors To receive two ‘Excellents’ is except- children’s learning experiences just confirms our reasons to be ional and these were given in proud. There is not one individual The report describes Muckhart’s the areas of ‘improvements who deserves praise for this pupils as “highly motivated” and in performance’ and ‘learners’ fantastic report as we really are a “exceptionally caring.” Inspectors experiences.’ An ‘Excellent’ rating close knit team - we may be the describe the pupils’ behaviour as means that the school has been smallest school in the County but “impeccable” and their achieve- recognised as sector leading. we certainly pack a punch!” Judy Murray, mother of tennis up the game. It’s a great game, lots ments as “very impressive.” of fun and a good way to keep fit.” The report also highlights the Councillor George Matchett, champs Andy and Jamie school’s particular strengths: Staff, who are progressing very Portfolio Holder for Inclusion, came to Lornshill Academy There are club nights at Lornshill well in using Curriculum for said: “Congratulations to everyone to officially launch Menstrie Academy on Tuesday and Friday The headteacher’s leadership of Excellence, deliver experiences involved in this outstanding report. Tennis Club. evenings and the club runs children’s learning which allow children choices, The report confirms that this is a The event attracted 150 people, coaching sessions on Wednesday Children’s influence on their enjoyment and opportunities to school of which pupils, parents including lots of children and evenings for all age groups. The own and others’ learning challenge themselves, be active, and all staff have every reason to young people, keen to get a few club has also entered a gent’s team take ownership of and set their own Children’s achievements and be proud. Muckhart Primary is an tips from Britain’s most famous into the Tennis Central league. targets. excellent school whose many key their outdoor learning sporting mum. Thanks to support from sports strengths have been identified by The school’s partnership with The club has been in existence development and Cashback Tennis Teamwork and staff’s sharing of the Inspectors.” effective practice parents is impressive and the Parent since the 1920s when it was there is an eight- week summer Council is highly supportive of the A copy of the full report is available DCL Menstrie Tennis Club and programme during the school Staff’s ability to make children’s school. Staff have strong links with at www.hmie.gov.uk members were mainly company holidays with free tennis coaching learning exciting and relevant workers. But membership waned at Lornshill every Wednesday from around a decade ago and the 1pm to 3pm for young people Road repairs after the severe winter club was disbanded. However, an aged 12 to 16 years. energetic and enthusiastic group Councillor Bobby McGill, was required to allow the roads to drainage systems repaired under The winter of 2010/11 was of local residents reformed the spokesman for sports remain usable. The strategic network a two week road closure in May. the worst that many people club last year and, with the support development, said: Our three was tackled first and we resurfaced This work was all carried out in- can remember and once the of the Council, has been running secondary school boast fantastic a large section of the A823 between house at a cost of approximately ice had melted the true cost occasional tennis coaching classes sporting facilities and this club is Muckhart and Rumbling Bridge. The £40,000. In the same month a of long term maintenance on at the Dumyat Centre and at using the four artificial outdoor road had to be closed to allow the similar operation was carried out our roads was revealed. Lornshill Academy. tennis courts at Lornshill. work to take place and an external on the B913 between the A977 A massive effort was required The club now has around a dozen The Council is always keen to contractor carried out the work at a at Ramshorn and the county by the Council’s Roads Service regular members. support and assist local clubs in cost of around £70,000. boundary, again under a two to keep roads open and safe and whatever way we can and sports week closure and at an estimated The club’s interim chairman Dr programme the permanent repair We repaired the B9140 between development continues to work cost of £150,000. Jim Hay said: “We are extremely with the club to encourage junior of severely damaged routes. Collylands roundabout at Glenochil keen to attract new members to and its junction with the B913 at As can be seen, the cost of these membership and to help train Initially, we filled the potholes the club and hope to have around Dollarbeg over a period of 12 weeks large, programmed works is high coaches.” allowing the roads to remain 50 members by the end of the and at a cost of £140,000. The road and this does not take account of open, often working around year. We welcome members of For more information on Menstrie was patched and made safe and was the temporary reinstatements still the clock in very unpleasant all abilities and from anywhere in Tennis club see their website at closed only for a few days to allow required on our road network. As and difficult conditions. In some Clackmannanshire. We have been www.menstrietennisclub.co.uk. work to be carried out on the bends a result of last winter’s severity, areas however, damage to the working closely with the Council’s between Collylands and Fishcross. we will be continuing to repair For any information about the carriageway was so severe that sports development and facilities the damage caused to our roads sport of tennis, coach education or simple pothole patching was The C-class road from Forestmill to management and are keen to throughout the summer and access to facilities contact sports insufficient to cover the extensive the B9140 near Coalsnaughton was encourage young people to take autumn months. development on 01259 450000. damage and complete resurfacing patched, resurfaced and damaged Page 7 Clackmannanshire VIEW Summer 2011 Glass blowing courses

Clackmannanshire Tullibody Gala Day Saturday 30th July The 6th annual gala day takes place in Saturday 17th September the park adjacent to the civic centre and Learn the magical way glass is blown and sculpted with is organised by Tullibody, Cambus and ScotFest is a one-day festival in Alva’s Elin Isaksson-Leftwich at Alloa Makers’ Village. Elin offers Glenochil Community Council. The fun Cochrane Park. A celebration of the popular hands-on and productive glass blowing courses for kicks off at 11am with the parade and best in Scottish food & drink, craft, beginners to intermediates at her glass blowing studio and the action in the park from noon. design and live music with more than gallery. Day course includes making a paperweight, blowing Libraries 50 exhibitors. For more information visit a tumbler and other hollow glass wares which are yours to www.scotfest.co.uk. keep. Circus Arts and Crafts Sessions with the Course dates 2011: support of Claxart Sauchie Gala Day Alva Glen Illuminations • Saturday 23rd July (beginners day course £150) Alva CAP Saturday 20th August Saturday 24th September • Saturday 27th August (beginners day course £150) Wednesday 27th July from 2pm-3pm Fairfield Park is the venue for a fun Alva Glen was first illuminated in 1937 to • Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th September - cost £290, packed day. The parade along Sauchie celebrate the coronation of George VI. 2 day workshop to learn further Alloa Library Main Street is at noon followed by all Organised by the town council and Thursday 11th August • Saturday 29th October (beginners day course £150) the usual family entertainment. The using roman candles and 600 fairy from 11am - 12noon event is organised by Sauchie Active8. lights, the event must have been a • Saturday 26th November (beginners day course £150) Tickets are free but should be booked in great success, since it was repeated in To book a course contact by email advance at your local library/CAP. Walk on the Darkside subsequent years. The illuminations were resurrected in 2004 after a 50-year [email protected] Raymondo Bongo Magic Saturday 20th August absence by supporters of the Alva Glen Alternative you can now book and pay direct on the website Shows A family night walk Heritage Trust. Though more modest in www.elinisaksson.com/courses through the Woodland size and duration, the celebrations still Dollar CAP Park at Alva searching for bats and feature a variety of entertainment which Wednesday 17th August other nocturnal beasties that go bump takes place in the magical setting of from 2pm - 2.45pm. in the night. Please bring a torch and the beautifully illuminated lower Glen. Tickets are £2.50 and should be booked wear sturdy footwear. Event takes place The event, organised by volunteers, in advance at your local library/CAP. from 9pm - 10pm. Meet at Ochil Hills raises significant funds for the work of Woodland Park. the Trust in maintaining and improving Circus Performers from the Glen. Come along for a free evening Zoolab of family fun from 6.30pm - 9.30pm. Visit www.alvaglen.org.uk for more Snake contortionists, tree frog acrobats information. Helping you and stick insects on stilts! Tillicoultry Library Wednesday 6th July Doors Open Days to live well from 11am - 12noon 3rd and 4th September 2011 Stress Control Fancy becoming a Tullibody Library Doors Open Days is a great way to find Thursday 7th July Coming soon to a venue near Mental Health First out about the hidden heritage on your from 11am - 12noon you: Stress Control. Aider? doorstep. This is your opportunity to see Sauchie CAP behind the scenes of everyday buildings Learn to control your body, Scottish Mental Health Friday 8th July as well as important landmarks. And all your thoughts, your actions First Aid (SMHFA) is based from 3pm - 4pm for free. and your panic. Just turn up, on the concept of general sit back and learn some great First Aid training and aims Alva CAP This year, Doors Open Days weekend in ways to control stress. to improve the general Wednesday 13th July Clackmannanshire will be on Saturday public’s awareness and from 11am - 12noon A six-week course starting in 3rd and Sunday 4th September and Sauchie Tower understanding of mental we are planning to build on 2010’s Alloa week beginning 12th Clackmannan CAP health. ‘bumper’ year, with the addition of new which have fine stained glass windows September, early evening. Wednesday 20th July buildings and exhibitions to attract and interesting architecture. The course teaches you to: from 3pm - 4pm For further information or more visitors. There may be a few other new entries registration, contact the • Give initial help to Several properties are taking part for to add to the programme, but for Phoenix Centre on: someone experiencing the first time and people should find now remember that Dollar Museum 01259 215048. a mental health them of great interest: Burnfoot Wind will be open to visitors during the Struggling with problem Farm will be an exciting new addition weekend: its new exhibition, which • Deal with a crisis to the programme; Glenochil Prison will focuses on a century of farming mental health and situation or the first be open on both afternoons for pre- around Dollar, is a fascinating insight over 65? signs of someone booked, guided tours only, while Alloa into how agricultural practices have Circus Stars Summer Stress, low mood and other developing mental ill Sheriff Court will be open on Saturday changed in the last hundred years. Reading Challenge mental health problems do health, and 3rd from 11am - 4pm for guided tours. Finally, Tullibody Heritage Centre, not age discriminate. Older Come along to your local library/ will be open on both afternoons • Guide people Other highlights are the ever -popular people can struggle too. CAP and join in the summer reading from 1pm-6pm: visitors can see the towards appropriate Clackmannan Tower, which will be challenge. Once you have filled in a permanent displays, as well as the This is why the Council’s professional help. open on Saturday, and Sauchie Tower, registration card you will receive a ‘circus new exhibition which celebrates the Integrated Mental Health which will be open on Sunday, as well SMHFA is a free 12-hour stars’ membership card, where you can life of Robert Dick, the baker and self- Services offer support with as Inglewood, one of the grand former course that can be delivered record the books you read. Every time taught botanist and geologist, whose depression, anxiety, self homes of the Forrester-Paton family, in a variety of ways, to fit in you return a book, or books, you will get bicentenary it is this year. esteem and social isolation which will open its doors from 10am- with people’s busy lives. We a stamp on your registration card. When to people over 65. you have read six books you 4pm on Saturday for guided tours. The full Doors Open Days programme will be running courses in will receive your ‘circus Following on from the successful will be available soon on the national So there is no need to September and November. If stars’ pack which includes celebration of glassmaking last year, Doors Open Days website (www. struggle on your own, go you are interested in finding a circus stage, stickers, The Newfangled Glass Company and doorsopendays.org.uk), on ClacksWeb and see your GP and find out out more, please contact us certificate, chatterbox and Retroglass will be taking part again, as and in the programme booklet which what services and support on 01259 215048 bookmark. well as several churches in the county will be widely available. you can access.

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