THIS REPORT RELATES COUNCIL TO ITEM 10 ON THE AGENDA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

2 April 1998 NOT EXEMPT

CLACKMANNANSHIRE AND STIRLING STRUCTURE PLAN

1 PURPOSE

1.1 To agree that the views expressed through consultation on the issues paper, as summarised in this report, are taken into account in progressing work on the preparation of a Draft version of the new and Stirling Structure Plan.

2 SUMMARY

2.1 The report details the consultation carried out in respect of the Clackmannanshire and Stirling Structure Plan and draws broad conclusions from the responses received. A detailed breakdown of the responses to the questionnaire along with detailed summaries of the various workshops and other meetings held is attached ( Appendix 1 and 2 respectively). The report identifies a series of conclusions in respect to each topic area, each of which will be taken into account in preparing the draft plan.

3 RECOMMENDATION(S)

3.1 That Clackmannanshire and Stirling Councils:

1) Note the comments received during the consultation exercise as detailed in appendices 1 and 2;

2) Agree that the broad conclusions of this joint report are taken into account in preparing the Draft Clackmannanshire and Stirling Structure Plan.

4 CONSIDERATIONS

Public Participation

4.1 In order to involve the public at this early stage of the plan preparation process an issues paper and questionnaire survey was sent out to every household in the Stirling Council area. In Clackmannanshire 600 leaflets and questionnaires were sent out to community councils and were made available -2-

in libraries and Council Offices. In Stirling a copy of the Questionnaire was sent to every household, in all 1563 responses to the questionnaire survey were received. 1500 from Stirling and 63 from Clackmannanshire. A detailed breakdown of the comments received is included as appendix 1 to this report. In addition a series of workshops and other meetings have been held involving 150 people.. A detailed summary of these workshops is also included as appendix 2 to this report.

Issues to be addressed

4.2 The following section of this report presents a framework of key issues which will be considered in preparing the draft plan. The bullet points which precede each section reflect the broad conclusions reached from the questionnaire survey, workshops and other meetings. It is recognised that at the moment this framework is very general. Some of the more specific points raised by the public will however be taken into account as the strategy develops, particularly in addressing the issue of identifying the most appropriate general locations for new development. Other issues which were raised, whilst important, may not be appropriately addressed by the Structure Plan as they relate to Local Plan matters, to the wider function and service provision of both councils or to matters outwith the councils control.

4.3 GENERAL STRATEGY/SCALE AND LOCATION OF DEVELOPMENT

• Medium Scale Growth, although keeping new housing development to a minimum;

• Reduced need to travel, whilst increasing accessibility;

• Provide Housing, employment and other opportunities, to meet the needs of the area;

• Protect and enhance character/quality of towns, villages and the environment;

• Sustain rural communities;

• Insure appropriate infrastructure, public transport and community facilities.

4.4 The bullet points above sum up the main strands which were apparent throughout the entire consultation exercise and which were reflected in the choice of preferred options and other specific comments derived from the questionnaire survey. The majority of people (50% of the Questionnaire responses) favoured the medium scale expansion option. People generally felt that in terms of the overall strategy for future development, reducing the need to travel and increasing accessibility was important as was the provision of housing, employment and other opportunities to meet the areas needs in the future. The issue of sustainability was seen to be important as was the protection of the key assets of the area- its environment and the character/quality of its towns and villages. The need to support rural communities, improve public transport and insure appropriate provision of infrastructure and other facilities to support new development were also viewed to be important in terms of the overall strategy . -3-

4.5 HOMES

• Issues of Design/Quality/Energy Efficiency;

• Location of housing to reduce need to travel;

• Integrated strategy linking housing with community, shopping, leisure, education, water & drainage;

• Provision of low cost/ Affordable/local needs housing;

• Promotion of an appropriate mix, range and choice of housing types;

• Prioritise use of brownfield/infill/conversion and redevelopment.

4.6 Provision of housing to meet the needs of those who cannot compete within the housing market was considered to be a priority as was the use wherever possible of existing urban brownfield land. The promotion of energy efficient housing and a design emphasis promoting quality and local character were also considered to be important. A number of issues in relation to housing provision within individual settlements were also raised. These will be considered in detail as the Draft plan is progressed but in general they reflect concerns about the impact of new housing on existing communities (particularly rural communities) as well as the perceived lack of appropriate infrastructure and facilities to support this new housing. The provision of housing to meet the needs of rural areas was also a key issue within the Stirling area. In terms of the location of new housing in the Stirling Council area.

• 44% of responses to the questionnaire survey favoured expanding existing towns;

• 24% favoured new settlements and 31% preferred another option ( mainly use of vacant sites, regeneration, redevelopment).

4.7 JOBS

Business/Industry

• Provision of the appropriate range, choice and location of land for the businesses;

• Provision appropriate to the particular needs of Stirling’s rural areas;

• Linkage with strategy for new housing and transport;

• The potential impact of technological development/home working etc.

4.8 Most respondents favoured a balance between large sites and small workshops and felt that office and industrial development should carry on as it is at the moment. The need to relate employment to the level and location of new housing as well as transport provision was also viewed to be important. A number of people referred to the fact that development in new technology could radically alter the way people work in the future. Tackling unemployment problems in Clackmannanshire and the Eastern Villages was viewed to be important. -4-

4.9 Tourism

• protect/enhance and build on existing tourism strengths;

• Identify any new opportunity areas;

• Set framework in terms of new National Park for Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

4.10 Most people felt that a lot had been achieved in terms of tourism in the area and that there was opportunity to build on these strengths. Opportunities for some low key visitor facilities were identified but only a few felt that large scale theme park type development should be encouraged. Facilities which would benefit visitors as well as local people were favoured. The need to spread the benefits of tourism throughout the Structure Plan area was also viewed to be important.

4.11 SHOPPING

• Protection/enhancement of town centres;

• The role of town centres and other out of town centres;

• Framework for any new shopping provision;

• Encouragement of local shopping provision;

4.12 The majority of people were either very satisfied or satisfied with the range, quality and location of shopping in the area. Individual comments stressed the need to protect the existing town centres and to discourage out of town shopping, although a few people felt there was a place for out of town factory outlet and other shopping. A number of people mentioned the need to protect areas like the Arcade and Barnton Street, to improve Alloa town centre and to encourage a greater variety of independent shops. Local shopping was viewed to be important.

4.13 CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

4.14 Environment

• The long term future of greenbelts;

• Protect designated areas of nature conservation interest etc;

• Recognise role of environmental quality as a key asset of the area to be protected and enhanced;

• Accept need to sustain rural communities;

4.15 Protection of green belts and minimal use of greenfield land was viewed to be important as was the need to protect the environment but at the same time allow appropriate development to sustain communities and provide opportunity. The environment was recognised as a key asset of the area which should be protected and enhanced. -5-

4.16 Minerals

• Identification of preferred areas for mineral extraction;

• Environmental protection criteria.

4.17 Most people within the Stirling Council area (64% of the questionnaire survey response) felt that minerals extraction should be discouraged. Specific comments indicated that in some locations mineral extraction with proper control to protect the environment might be appropriate. Within Clackmannanshire 59% of respondents felt that preferred areas for mineral extraction should be identified, subject to environmental criteria. Concern was raised over the possible cumulative impact of open cast coal mining in Clackmannanshire.

4.18 Waste Management

• Future landfill requirements;

• Integrated strategy to reduce waste and encourage re-cycling.

4.19 Most people (43% of the questionnaire survey response) felt there was a need to have one major facility to serve Clackmannanshire and Stirling but that this should be combined with measures to reduce waste by encourage recycling and other initiatives.

4.20 SERVICING AND ACCESSING DEVELOPMENT

4.21 Transport /Infrastructure/community facilities

• Promote an integrated transport system;

• Promote improved public transport particularly the bus;

• Consider initiatives such as park and ride, road pricing, parking charges and other initiatives to reduce car use;

• Need to insure appropriate provision of infrastructure, community and other facilities to serve new development;

• The proposed new Forth road crossing.

4.22 46% of respondents in the Stirling Council area and 49% in Clackmannanshire to the questionnaire felt that improvements to bus services would be the most effective way to reduce reliance on the private car. Improved train services, walking and cycling were also viewed to be important. Specific comments from the questionnaire and workshops related to the possibility of re-opening train stations, use of trams and imposition of other measures such as park and ride and car parking charges to discourage use of cars. People generally felt it was important that new development, particularly housing, should be accompanied by appropriate infrastructure, community and other facilities.

4.23 Next Steps

4.24 Research on a number of the major issues to be addressed by the new Structure Plan is ongoing. -6-

• Waste Management - a study has been commissioned;

• Shopping - work on a shopping study is being progressed;

• Minerals - study including opencast coal, sand, gravel and hard rock;

• Assessment of the future housing requirement.

This research work will be considered alongside National Planning Policy Guidelines and the conclusions reached through this public consultation exercise in developing a strategy for the new Structure Plan. It is hoped that a Draft Plan will be produced towards the end of this year at which stage there will be a further opportunity for public involvement.

5 POLICY IMPLICATIONS

5.1 Future Structure Plan Policy

6 CONSULTATIONS

6.1 Only Public, to be used as a basis for draft proposals involving officers and Member Officer Working Groups.

7 RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS

7.1 None

8 BACKGROUND PAPERS

8.1 None -7-

Author(s) Name Designation Tel No/Extension

Allison Scambler Planning Officer 44 2500

Approved by Name Designation Signature

David Martin Director, Environmental Services

Date 9 October 2000 13:35 Reference

EQ053AS.DOC -8- APPENDIX 1

Response to Structure Plan Issues Consultation - Questionnaires

1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 A consultation exercise was carried out at the end of 1997 through to the beginning of 1998 on the key strategic issues to be addressed within the new Clackmannanshire and Stirling Structure Plan.

1.2 In Stirling District the issues paper and questionnaire was distributed to all households, some 50,000. A total of 1458 responses were received. Within Clackmannanshire a slightly different approach was taken. The issues paper and questionnaire was made available at all public libraries and other public buildings throughout the area, and was sent directly to Community Councils, local key businesses, members of the public whom had objected to the Local Plan and key organisations. A total of 600 were distributed and 61 responses received.

1.3 A semi-structured questionnaire was used to format people’s ideas to allow them to be analysed and give an impression of the range of views in the community. Some different questions were asked in the two Council areas, although they covered the same strategic issues. This paper summarises the results of the responses from both Council areas.

1.4 It should be noted that the totals do not always add up to the figures of the 1521 responses received as not all respondents answered that particular question. Percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number.

2 RESPONSE

2.1 The response to the consultation has been analysed to identify whether it provides a representative view across the population of the area. This was however a consultation exercise, not a formal survey based on a formal, structured representative sample. The response received can therefore only be taken to represent a range of volunteered views. No attempts were made to boost response rates.

2.2 While it was not the intention of the consultation exercise to get a representative sample of respondents, it is however important to understand the source of comments on strategic issues.

2.3 The profile of the responses have been examined by geography, employment, age and gender. Generally, there appears to be a reasonable distribution of responses The Analysis identified various groups of respondents to try and identify differences in terms of urban/rural splits, respondents who operated a business, age, gender, and employment status. In all cases, the differences identified were minor and would have no bearing on the overall result.

2.4 In Clackmannanshire the results of the questionnaire sent to local businesses is shown separately. The responses from organisations covering the whole Structure Plan area are also reported separately.. -10-

Analysis of Responses

2.5 In terms of the Urban / Rural split (‘Urban’ is taken to be settlements to the east of the motorway including , and Stirling), a slightly higher proportion of responses were received from the rural areas than urban ( 2.2% compared with 1.8%). However, in terms of the analysis, the numbers involved are much higher in the urban area than in the rural, so the ‘urban’ view is likely to dominate the overall analysis.

2.6 In terms of distribution by settlement., a fairly even response was received from across the Stirling Council area and Clackmannanshire, apart from a small number of settlements that show particularly low response rates. The higher response rates appear to be from the more affluent part of the Council area, so a note of caution should be attached when reading the results. Clackmannanshire’s responses were slightly over-represented by respondents from Alloa, Dollar and and slightly under-represented by respondents from Alva, Sauchie, and Tullibody. -11-

2.7 Settlement Number of Population Proportion of Proportion of Respondents Response Census Population Stirling Aberfoyle 10 580 0.7 0.7 41 1513 2.8 1.9 Bridge of Allan 146 4849 10 6.2 8 443 0.5 0.6 38 2607 2.6 3.3 Cowie 2 2010 0.1 2.6 3 180 0.2 0.3 8 308 0.5 0.4 5 400 0.3 0.5 44 1207 3 1.5 38 825 3 1 Dunblane 170 7298 12 9.2 Fallin 11 2594 0.8 3.3 18 434 1.2 0.5 15 711 1 0.9 7 194 0.5 0.2 28 1757 1.9 2.2 15 661 1 0.8 19 769 1.3 1 6 233 0.4 0.3 2 66 0.1 0.1 13 1573 0.9 2 Stirling 648 36862 44.4 47 1 1915 0.1 2.4 6 227 0.4 0.3 Thornhill 8 546 0.5 0.7 Tyndrum 1 162 0.1 0.2 Rural Remainder 28 7560 1.9 9.6 Outside Area 17 1.2 Non-specific 4 0.3 No Response to Question 98 6.7 Stirling Total 1458 78484 1.9% Clackmannanshire Alloa 20 13312 32 26 Alva 2 4922 3 10 Clackmannan 4 3378 6 7 Dollar 11 2787 17 6 Fishcross 1 558 2 1 Menstrie 6 2201 10 5 Sauchie 3 5834 4 12 Tillicoultry 3 5178 4 10 Tullibody 7 6634 11 14 Outside Clackmannanshire 4 6 Clackmannanshire Total 61 44804 0.1% TownTables 1 Consultation Response by Settlement within Stirling and Clackmannanshire Districts -12-

2.8 Table 2 shows that the response within the Stirling Council area provide views both from householders and business interests within the area.

Number Percent Operates a business 348 24 Doesn’t operate a 960 66 business No response to question 150 10 Total 1458 100 Table 2: Consultation Response by Business Operator within Stirling Council area 2.9 In terms of age/gender profile table 3 shows that a reasonable distribution of responses were received although in the Stirling Council area the female response is considerably lower than the census in the 65+ age category. Compared to the profile of Clackmannanshire’s population, the respondents were:-

• under-represented by women. • slightly under-represented in the 16-25 age group

Age Male Female Total Percent Census population Clackmannanshire 0 -15 9 7 16 25% 21% 16 -25 2 1 3 5% 13% 26 - 45 12 8 20 32% 30% 46 - 65 10 4 14 22% 22% Over 65 6 1 7 11% 14% Total 39 21 60 100% 100% Percent 62% 33% Stirling 0 -15 2 2 0.3% 18.2% 16 -25 9 9 18 2.3% 15.1% 26 - 45 141 133 274 35.2% 28.4% 46 - 65 225 115 340 43.7% 23.8% Over 65 95 49 144 18.5% 14.6% Total 470 308 778 100% 100% Percent 60% 40% Table 3: Breakdown of respondents by sex and age in Stirling and Clackmannanshire 2.10 In terms of employment, the comparison is good in the Stirling Council area, particularly for females. The male comparison is not as close, but generally, it can be said that there is a reasonable representation. In terms of employment the Clackmannanshire sample showed 62% of male respondents in employment compared to the figure of 61% and 52% of female respondents in employment compared to the census figure of 44%. -13-

3 OVERALL SCALE OF GROWTH

3.1 In response to the question of what the most appropriate option for the future development of the area is, the majority of respondents identified medium expansion as being most appropriate. This was followed by small scale expansion.

Number Percent Major expansion 105 8% Medium expansion 688 50% Small scale expansion 535 38% Other 59 4% Total 1387 100 Table 4: Overall options for future development of the Stirling Council area

4 OPTIONS FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

4.1 A range of comments were included in this section (112 in all). Around ten of these stated that the level of growth should be determined by the amount of new employment and that new housing without the jobs to go along with it should not be encouraged. A few people felt that the options were overly simplistic and that whilst a few areas could be expanded other areas should have only very small scale growth. Other people felt we had to consolidate existing growth concentrating on regeneration and improved service provision before considering additional new development. A couple of people questioned the need for growth when the population of is decreasing. Other issues included protecting the Green Belt and countryside as well as the historic town and its setting. A few people referred to the fact that the key issue was not the level of growth, but whether it could be achieved in a sustainable manner.

Scale of Housing Development

4.2 The table below shows the response to the amount of new housing to be built in the Clackmannanshire and Stirling area. Most respondents felt that new housing should be kept to a minimum (51%) followed by a group of respondents who felt that house building should carry on as it is at the moment (26%). If you analyse the figures of the two Council areas separately however, the Clackmannanshire figures are significant for medium growth.

Issues Number Percentage Area needs much more housing 246 17% House building should carry on as it is at the 371 26% moment New housing development should be kept to 721 51% a minimum I don’t mind either way 79 6% TOTALS 1416 100% Table 5: Amount of new housing within the Structure Plan area -14-

Location of housing Development

4.3 Table 6 shows the responses for the amount of new housing against the location of new housing. It shows that the majority of respondents favoured expanding existing towns by building on their outskirts. However, there is a distinct difference with the distribution of responses from those who specify building a new settlement or ‘other’. In those cases, the majority of the respondents were those who wished to keep housing development to a minimum. 44% of respondents favoured expanding existing towns by building on their outskirts, 24% favoured new settlements and 31% favoured another option as detailed in the paragraph below.

Location of new housing Total Expanding existing Building a new towns by building settlement away from on their outskirts existing towns Other Count Col % Count Col % Count Col % Count Col % Amount of The area needs much more newhousing housing 141 24% 54 16% 40 10% 235 17%

House building should carry on as it is at the moment 200 34% 69 21% 75 18% 344 26%

New housing development should be kept to a minimum 213 36 % 183 55% 284 69% 680 51%

I do not mind either way 39 6% 26 8% 14 3% 79 6%

Total 593 100.0% 332 100.0% 413 100% 1338 100%

Table 6 : Location of new housing

How should new housing be accommodated-Other

4.4 438 respondents commented on this section . The majority of the commentators (195) expressed support for new housing to be accommodated within existing brownfield/gap/infill sites. Many of these comments also stated that new development on greenfield or greenbelt land should be avoided ie. rebuild on derelict sites before using greenfield/greenbelt sites. The second favoured option was to accommodate new housing by regenerating/refurbishing existing derelict and/or vacant properties in and within the vicinity of town centres as well as replacing redundant shops and offices with dwellings. Along the same lines many respondents( 158) indicated support for the demolition and rebuilding of certain housing areas- the and were specifically mentioned- ie. Redevelopment and conversion should be encouraged within existing town boundaries. 14 people specifically referred to the expansion of existing towns and villages or the establishment of new settlements.

4.5 In Clackmannanshire this question was phrased differently referring to the four major long-term growth areas which have already been identified at Muirside (Tullibody), Alloa West, Alloa South East and Menstrie. From the options supplied, most respondents felt that limited proposals for growth spread across a number of towns would be preferable (70%). -15-

Issue Number Percent A new major long-term growth area (in 10 16% addition to the 4 areas) Limited proposals for growth spread across 44 70% a number of towns Other 3 5% Non responses 5 9% Table 7: Location of new housing within Clackmannanshire

Other specific comments on location of housing

4.6 In Clackmannanshire the main points raised related to restricting development on greenfield sites, using brownfield sites for development, building houses within existing towns/villages, keeping green belt between towns/villages, more affordable housing. Many respondents saw the need to develop derelict brownfield sites as a priority. Villages should be protected from growing together with the importance of protecting the Green Belt seen as very important. More provision is considered necessary in the Hillfoots, although it was deemed important to retain characteristics of these settlements.

4.7 In Stirling additional comments on this issue related to the need to concentrate development within existing towns, primarily Stirling making best use of existing vacant buildings and derelict sites within Stirling and Alloa primarily. Some people felt that Stirling should not be developed any further. A number of comments on protecting the greenbelt and not allowing development in the countryside or in rural villages were received. Other people particularly within Stirling District however felt that some development in the countryside and in villages should be encouraged to help maintain rural communities and services. Vacant shop units and other premises should be used for housing.

4.8 A few people felt that new settlements would be better than changing existing communities and diluting their character. New small villages could be preferable to a larger scale settlement. New development should be located in walking distance to shops etc. A few people stated that the scale of the areas towns and villages is what makes it attractive and that this should not be destroyed. Specific suggestions included redevelopment of derelict buildings down the Riverside in Stirling area, incentives to encourage use of vacant housing in the Raploch, no development of greenfield until all brownfield land has been used up, no more development in Bridge of Allan or Dunblane, revive the town centre as a place to live above shops etc eg. Baker Street, Barnton Street, incentives for use of derelict land, new accommodation for the elderly should be at the centre of existing communities not on the outskirts, there is scope for substantial new development to the West of Stirling particularly in the Gargunnock area. Spreading housing throughout the countryside would spoil the area, adding to existing settlements particularly the eastern villages, the trend towards loss of greenbelt should not continue, build on the old Marshalling Yard at Bridge of Allan, more 2 bedroom housing in Dunblane, West Stirlingshire villages should not grow any more as commuters take no part in village life, need to retain the setting of Stirling., Bridge of Allan needs more 3/4 bedroom houses, new housing for the Balfron/Buchlyvie area. Improvement and regeneration of the existing housing stock is vital. -16-

Type of housing

4.9 269 specific comments about housing type were made. The majority of these relate to the provision of low cost/affordable housing and provision of appropriate housing for the young, elderly and disabled. The need for more council housing or other rented accommodation, particularly for local people was highlighted. A number of comments supported building flats( but not high rise) or terraced housing as young and old people don’t necessarily want to look after a garden. Other comments indicated that more small houses with there own door and garden were required. A few people felt there was a shortage of high quality apartments for people who want quality accommodation but do not have the time for a garden. Many felt there has been to much executive house building and that too many council houses had been sold. All new private developments should include an element of rented housing. Innovative schemes like co-ownership should be promoted. Need to move away from situation where most new housing is in the over £100,000 bracket. A good mixture of tenement, terraced, semi-detached and detached houses promoting a good social and age range mix within new developments should be promoted. Need to find solution to the homelessness problem. Low price rural accommodations is urgently required. Shortage of good quality affordable housing suitable for families.

Design/Quality/Energy Efficiency 4.10 126 comments were made in respect to the above. In the main these comments relate to the need to promote better quality in new buildings, particularly housing. Particularly common comments in this respect included the need to retain a local character moving away from box type housing estates which could be found almost anywhere in the UK. A traditional Scottish Style, designed for our climate was viewed to be important, utilising local materials ( not bricks) and providing quality homes which will last. Appropriate landscaping and open space was also viewed to be important as was the design of energy efficient buildings .New housing developments should be designed to promote a sense of pride and community. There should be scope for more local involvement in deciding on the nature of new developments. Self build schemes should be encouraged. Provision of environmental benefits and footpaths linking surrounding areas.

Community Facilities 4.11 30 people specifically referred to the need to provide adequate community facilities, infrastructure and local shops. A couple of people referred to the need for developers to build/contribute to new community facilities. Specific reference has been made to housing has been approved in Dunblane whilst the high school is full and no provision has been made for community facilities ( around half of the respondents concerned about provision of community facilities were from Dunblane). New villages should have a centre and adequate community facilities.

5 SHOPPING

5.1 There appears to be a reasonably high level of satisfaction with the range, quality and location of shopping. Table 8 shows that over 65% of respondents expressed satisfaction with all three, whilst under 20% expressed dissatisfaction. -17-

Satisfaction with Satisfaction with Satisfaction with shopping - range shopping - quality shopping - location Count % Count % Count % Very satisfied 304 21% 272 19% 274 19% Satisfied 688 46% 710 47% 674 46% Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 206 14% 272 19% 234 16% Dissatisfied 237 16% 174 12% 220 15% Very dissatisfied 45 3% 37 3% 57 4% Total 1480 100.0% 1465 100.0% 1459 100.0%

Table 8: Satisfaction with range of shopping 5.2 Within Stirling District 461 comments were received in relation to shopping, 461 comments. The majority related to concern about the reliance on chain stores, the lack of small independent retailers providing variety, interest and character as well as concern about the future of Stirling Arcade and the traditional shopping areas of Kings Street, Barnton Street and Friars Street. A number of these people felt that Stirling compared unfavourably to Falkirk and Perth in terms of the range and quality of shopping. Local shopping was also viewed to be important and a number of people referred to the need to improve local shopping in Dunblane and Callander.

5.3 A number of people were happy with the existing level of shopping provision, particularly the new Thistle Marches but a few felt that there were to many shops for young people and not enough range. 63 comments were received relating to out of centre shopping development. Whilst two of these support such development the remainder felt that these damaged the town centre and were not accessible to people without cars, particularly the elderly. Specific comments referred to the need for rate relief, effective marketing and improvement to the shopping environment in traditional shopping areas of Stirling and in Dunblane. The need to support local shops and post offices in rural areas was mentioned as was the possibility of the major supermarkets working through locally based shops to reduce peoples needs to travel. The need for more upmarket and prestigious shops was also mentioned.

5.4 The figures for Clackmannanshire rather than as for the Structure Plan area as a whole however indicate a higher level of dissatisfaction with the location of shops (26%). Within Clackmannanshire an additional question was asked of what would boost shopping facilities and help the regeneration of Alloa town centre and other town centres in Clackmannanshire. Comments received indicated the need for a better range and quality of shops in local towns, especially Alloa; more pedestrianisation in Alloa; better access to local shops through public transport and more parking; and greater control of traffic in local town centres. Good quality restaurants, open air market, quality shops, better parking, better public transport, a need to attract larger companies, park and ride site, improved tourist information and facilities were also viewed to be important. Other comments related to more shopper crèches and environmental enhancement of Alloa town centre. Concern was expressed at too much centralisation of shopping in Stirling.

5.5 In Clackmannanshire another additional question was asked as to where people shop for different types of goods. As can be seen from Table 9, it is apparent that most respondents use Stirling as their main shopping centre for a whole range of goods, but especially the personal and bulky goods. In general respondents indicated that that they would like to have better range and quality of local shopping. -18-

Town Food Clothes, personal DIY, bulky goods and personal goods services No % No % No % Alloa only 17 27 3 5 2 3 Stirling only 24 38 30 48 48 36 Alloa and Stirling 5 8 10 16 5 8 Other combinations 17 27 20 32 8 13 Table 9: Where people in Clackmannanshire shop for different types of goods

6 OFFICE AND INDUSTRY

6.1 Opinions on the amount of new office and industrial development needed in Clackmannanshire and Stirling district are illustrated in different ways for the two areas, due to questions being asked differently.

6.2 In terms of Stirling district Table 10 shows the responses to the amount and type of new office development. In terms of the amount, the greatest number of responses were that office and industrial development should carry on as it is at the moment. There is also a clear preference for a balance between large sites and small workshops. As a result, by far the majority of respondents favoured continuing the current rate of development and a balance between large sites and small workshops.

Large or small office and industry Most land Most land There should be should be should be a balance between allocated for allocated for large sites and small scale large sites small work workshops Other Total Amount of The area needs much more land for office 16 78 12 3 109 office and and industrial development industry Office and industrial development should 25 474 74 10 583 carry on as it is at the moment Office and industrial development should 19 293 214 35 561 be kept to a minimum I do not mind either way 8 79 21 7 115

Total 68 924 321 55 1368

Table 10: The amount and type of new office and industrial development within Stirling district 6.3 In Clackmannanshire, opinions on the amount of new office and industrial development needed in Clackmannanshire and Stirling Council areas were as follows:-

Issue Number Percent The area needs much more land for office and 10 17% industrial development Office and industrial development should carry 30 53% on as it is at the moment Office and industrial development should be kept 16 28% to a minimum I don’t mind either way 1 2% Table 11: The amount of office and industrial development - Clackmannanshire district. 6.4 Most respondents felt that office and industrial development should carry on as it is at the moment, with a significant number (28%) feeling that it should be kept to a minimum. -19-

6.5 In terms of location within Clackmannanshire, 36 (57%) specific comments were received. Most considered Alloa, particularly Alloa West, to be the preferential area. Other considered that locations near Clackmannan were important to benefit from the proposed new Kincardine Bridge.

6.6 Additional comments were given by respondents to Stirling Council. 139 individual comments were made in response to this question. Of these, 26 stated that they felt there was already too much office and business space and that we should concentrate on filling existing vacancies. Of the remainder a number voiced concern about the siting and design of Castle Business Park whilst many referred to the need to make best use of vacant and derelict urban land. A number of comments related to the need to provide employment opportunities/workshops in rural areas as well as to the fact that technological change may reduce the requirements for large scale new facilities. Other specific comments related to the fact that buildings would require to be flexible in order to meet changing needs, that provision of more large scale sites would be required to attract inward investment and that Stirling should be promoted as a location for company Head Quarters.

7 MINERALS

7.1 In the context of a continuing pressure for mineral workings, respondents were asked whether the Councils should encourage or discourage mineral workings and whether the Councils should identify those areas acceptable or unacceptable for mineral workings. Table 12 shows that the majority of respondents within Stirling Council felt that mineral working should be discouraged.

Pressure for mineral workings Count % Encourage mineral workings 374 27.1% Discourage mineral workings 833 60.4% Other 173 12.5% Total 1380 100.0%

Table 12: Pressure for Mineral workings (Stirling Council) 7.2 Within Clackmannanshire most respondents felt that it would be preferable to identify those areas where mineral working would be acceptable (59%), whereas around a fifth felt that it would be better to identify those areas where mineral working would be opposed (22%).

Other specific comments- Minerals

7.3 There were a total of 244 specific comments on this topic. The encouragement of mineral workings was advocated by the majority of respondents, 105 in all, although most of these were dependant on environmental and economic conditions. Many expressed the need to limit the environmental impact of such workings and stated that any new sites should be restored when work is complete i.e. encourage but with appropriate safeguards for people and the environment. Other people favoured mineral development where there were clear economic reasons, particularly in terms of new jobs. Open cast mining was not generally favoured, although from the respondents from Clackmannanshire area, where there is particular pressure -20-

for open cast coal mining, limited open cast was considered acceptable subject to environmental factors. Concern was expressed at the cumulative impact. 44 commentators felt that there should not be a solitary rigid policy, but that each case should be considered on its merits. 11 of the respondents made reference to the use of alternative forms of energy instead of coal ie wind farms, hydro electric etc.

8 WASTE MANAGEMENT

8.1 The questionnaire asked how Waste should be disposed of in the future. Table 13 shows that, marginally, the majority of respondents identified one major facility as being the preference.

Waste disposal Count % Aim to have one major facility to 628 43% Clackmannanshire and Stirling Have smaller local facilities 574 40% Other 244 17% Total 1446 100.0%

Table 13: Waste management in the Structure Plan area

Other Comments on Waste Disposal

8.2 184 individual responses were received specifically on the need for improved facilities for recycling. The majority of people who responded specifically on this issue felt that the key issues revolved around minimising waste and encouraging appropriate re-cycling A number of people mentioned examples from abroad ie Germany (where there is no need to drive to disposal facilities, each household has a number of bins for re-cycling materials), USA and Bermuda. It was felt that there was a general lack of re-cycling facilities, the existing ones being generally inconvenient. In addition people felt that that there was an opportunity for the Structure Plan area to promote a comprehensive re-cycling package- leading the way in bringing the UK in line with what other countries are already achieving.

8.3 Other comments related to the need to utilised disused mine sites for landfill, have an incinerator plant and utilise the heat for energy.

9 VISITOR ATTRACTIONS

9.1 Most respondents were keen to see the development of new tourism and visitor facilities in the Structure Plan area. Some of them were also keen on the idea of development of the “holiday village”, however, a handful felt that they did not understand what it meant. -21-

Visitor attractions Count % Yes 1301 87% No 141 9% Do not Know 60 4% Total 1502 100.0%

Table 14 : Visitor attractions 9.2 Within Clackmannanshire, the question was asked as to whether the development of “holiday villages” should be encouraged. Of the total respondents, the questionnaire distributed in Clackmannanshire, 44% thought that such developments should be encouraged.

Other specific comments- Visitor Attractions

9.3 775 additional comments on this section were received. The majority of these emphasised the importance of building on our current success, focusing on quality and enhancing tourist infrastructure rather than on the promotion of theme park type development. Most people felt that the areas approach to tourism had achieved a lot to date ie the top of the town etc but also on countryside pursuits, the enjoyment of the countryside and outdoor activities. In terms of new provision most importance was placed on improved leisure/swimming provision which would benefit tourists as well as local people. New cinema development was also viewed as important. Making the most of what we have through appropriate management, signing, publicity and education was also viewed to be important. Low key visitor facilities and attractions were favoured with specific suggestions for an archive museum, heritage museum, theatre like the one in Pitlochry, improvement of the Battle of facility, film centre, a centre to capitalise on Bridge of Allan’s Heritage as a Spa town.

10 TRANSPORT

10.1 Most respondents agreed that there should be measures put in place to reduce car use. Analysis was carried out to see if the responses varied by age, and whether they were employed but each made no difference to the hierarchy of order of importance, and any other minor variations in proportion.

10.2 Within Stirling District area the pie chart below illustrates the measures indicated as first priority in reducing car usage. -22-

Measures to Reduce Car Use

Proportion of respondents who identified each mode as priority 1

Walking routes

10%

Train services

14% Bus routes 46%

17%

Other 12%

Cycling facilities

10.3 Within Clackmannanshire, improving public transport (bus and train) was ranked important by most respondents and was the most popular of the measures suggested to reduce car use (see table below). The figures do not add to 100% due to respondents ticking more than one option as a priority. Like the Stirling respondents, improvement to bus routes is seen as the main priority. The most significant difference between the figures of both Council areas is that relative to increase/improve train service.

Issue Ranking where 1 = important; 7 = least important 1234567 Improve/add to routes for walking 16% 8% 13% 11% 13% 11 0% % Improve cycle facilities 19% 8% 8% 11% 10% 14 2% % Improve bus routes 49% 16% 2% 8% 8% 0% 0% Increase/improve train service 32% 19% 13% 5% 5% 8% 0% Concentrate on new 16% 5% 21% 11% 6% 11 2% development in areas well % served by public transport Restrict parking space in areas 11% 6% 6% 13% 8% 17 8% where bus/cycling and walking % links are good Table 15: Measures to reduce car use in Clackmannanshire

Other comments on transport

10.4 366 specific comments were received on this issue. 34 of these related to the need to improve train services, open new stations ie Causewayhead, Bannockburn, Balfron and the Alloa Stirling link as well as to the possibility of provision of tram routes. The provision of an integrated transport system was viewed to be important by 59 commentators. The need to encourage people to use public transport. Specific reference was made to harmonising bus and train timetables, making more effective use of park and ride and providing for cycle parking at bus stops. Other general comments included closer home/work relations, discouraging cars to schools and more home delivery services. The majority of other comments related to the need to reduce the costs of bus travel if it is to provide a realistic alternative to the car, to improve the frequency of service, to improve linkages between the rural villages particularly Aberfoyle, Brig O Turk, Callander and Dunblane and to make -23-

provision more user friendly. A number of people felt that there was no realistic alternative to the car in rural areas and one person suggested a system which would impose penalties on use of car in areas with ready access to public transport but would not penalise people who had no realistic alternative.

10.5 A number of people said that reduced use of the car would only be achieved if more restrictions and penalties ie incentive to reduce single person cars, road pricing, increased parking charges, closing car parks in central Stirling, increase duty on petrol were placed on its use. A few people complained about money being wasted on current traffic calming initiatives. Re- introduction of concessionary fares was viewed to be important. A few people felt major employers should make arrangements for employee transport. Examples were given of the transport system in Sheffield and Amsterdam. The need to reduce peoples needs to use a car by siting new housing close to jobs, shopping etc and refusing further out of centre shopping and other development was mentioned by a few respondents.

11 WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT MAKING THIS AREA AN ATTRACTIVE PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK?

11.1 1257 specific comments to this question were received. All these comments were similar. The majority of these related to the attractive scenery and environment of the area, the lack of traffic congestion, the lack of pollution and the fact that it is based around a medium sized town and not a city. The historical character of the area, its buildings, good affordable public transport, a range of housing, shopping, leisure and job opportunities, good access to healthcare, safety and cleanliness, and achieving the right balance between tourists and residents and between town and country were also regarded as important.

11.2 In addition good schools, easy access to countryside and low Council tax were considered important. In terms of access, Stirling’s compactness and its good accessibility to and Edinburgh. In Clackmannanshire, the majority of respondents placed emphasis on the quality of the environment and the need to retain that attractiveness and good accessibility to it, as well as reducing unemployment rates.

12 OTHER COMMENTS

12.1 343 comments were received under this heading covering a range of topics. A high proportion of these related to the need to secure job creation and employment for local people and within Clackmannanshire the need to reduce unemployment. A few people felt the council has a role to play in ensuring that contracts and supplies came from local businesses. Again the need to protect the environment and take a more sensitive approach to new development reflecting the character of the area was stressed. The need to build a unique character for the area was mentioned and one person suggested that some traditional shopping areas should specialise to secure their future ie like Hey on Wey book town. Some people felt that past development had detracted from the area but that this did not necessarily have to be the case. -24-

12.2 Better communication links i.e. roads, rail, the new bridge over the River Forth and telecommunication links. A number of people welcomed this opportunity to express their views on the new plan but some were concerned that this would be little more than a PR exercise. Others felt that they did not have enough information to adequately answer the questions. A number of people referred to the fact that they felt the questionnaire was biased towards the urban area, that this reflected the priorities of the council as a whole and that the rural area should be given equal priority. One person questioned the need to plan for current household growth if in the longer term a decline in population would mean these houses lying empty.

13 QUESTIONNAIRES RECEIVED FROM BUSINESSES WITHIN CLACKMANNANSHIRE

13.1 Six businesses responded. The A907 upgrading was considered urgent. The need to focus more on creating employment and less on encouraging housing developments. Council recognised as being pro-active. Need to explore opportunity to encourage large inward investment e.g. Chung Wa. Support for new Kincardine Bridge. Tourism potential is under exploited. Improved range and quality of shops, cafes and restaurants facilities. Pedestrianisation of present traffic congested town centres with improved public transport and car parking facilities on immediate perimeter of shopping areas (with reasonable but enforced parking charges). Environmental enhancement to Alloa town centre. Lack of mainstream housing for local people.

14 QUESTIONNAIRES AND LETTERS RECEIVED FROM ORGANISATIONS

14.1 A number of what are considered to be the ‘key’ organisations have provided comment, either by completing the questionnaire or by letter. Each organisation’s response is summarised below.

Forth Valley Enterprise (FVE)

14.2 FVE acknowledge the importance of the new Structure Plan in developing a successful economy in the area. They comment that it is important that the implications of the emerging Regional Economic Development Strategy are taken into account. More specific comments are:-

Housing • Improvement to quality of housing stock. • New housing rate should remain as at present. • Important to ensure that economic growth of area is not constrained by a lack of availability of sustainable housing. • Reduce the need for people to travel.

Shopping Acknowledge major new developments in Stirling and consider the need to promote modernisation of the existing Thistle Centre. Recognise the need for further investment in Clackmannanshire to improve quality and the range of -25-

provision. Also, recognise retailing as being one of the highest employment growth sectors of the economy. Offices and Industry Implications of FVE’s economic development strategy needs to be taken into account. Need to provide a balanced range of such premises ranging from large sites to small scale workshops. Particular needs of rural area needs to be taken into account. Minerals Consider that many mineral workings provide only a small number of jobs relative to their environmental impact. Important to ensure that such impact is minimised. Waste Management Comment that areas of recycling and waste minimisation are ones where new employment, product and servicing opportunities can be created. Need to recognise full potential which exists in this market. Visitor Attractions Recognise the need to constantly reinvest in existing attractions as well as the development of new ones which can appeal to changing market conditions and demands. Important to recognise role tourism plays in providing secondary incomes, particularly in rural areas. Highlight that the Area Tourist Board together with the Councils and FVE are reviewing the opportunities for new visitor attractions, and the Structure Plan should reflect the findings. reference should also be made to the Forth Valley Tourism Action Plan. Transport Recognise need to provide park and ride facilities and provision of accessible and safe parking. Also important to recognise that traffic management should be implemented through consultation and consideration of business needs which require high levels of accessibility to function. General Comments Highlight that one of the key findings from the wide range of interviews carried out during the development of the Economic Development Strategy was the high quality environment of the area. Its accessibility within central Scotland, proximity to open countryside, availability of a range of housing were all featured in that study. Consider it important to ensure that this blend of attributes is retained and enhanced. In terms of the level of growth, consider that medium scale approach would be most appropriate. Central Scotland Police

14.3 Highlight the need to design new developments which limits the opportunities for crime and encourages community interaction. Support the creation of attractive town centre environments, with encouragement for housing in these centres. Consideration should be given to providing additional CCTV coverage. Proper and adequate parking facilities must be provided. -26-

The Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department

14.4 No comments.

Scottish Wildlife Trust

14.5 New philosophy of sustainability and biodiversity, linked with quality of life, mean that a more integrated approach to development is required. Important to define at outset what is meant by sustainable development, and to produce a practical framework for the development planning and control processes. Consider that a biodiversity audit of the area is a primary requirement on which to vase decisions. The Precautionary Principle should be used. A strategy for mineral extraction is necessary, to take account of the cumulative effects of such operations. More recycling of waste should be encouraged. protection of Green Belts. Important to take account of River Forth floodplain.

The Royal Society for The Protection of Birds

14.6 Acknowledge and congratulate the structure plan ‘team’ on the detailed and comprehensive nature of the studies to date. Important that sustainability forms central plank of Plan. Encourage a Strategic Environmental Appraisal to be undertaken. Hope that local Biodiversity Action Plans are developed. Nature conservation policies, providing a high level of protection where appropriate. Raise concern that there is no mention to date of a renewable energy strategy as part of the Plan, and also an indicative forestry strategy.

Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA)

14.7 Advise that they are preparing an Environmental Strategy which will set down strategic issues which SEPA wish to see addressed. priority environmental issues are likely to be energy, transport (environmental impacts, model choice, public transport), physical development (economic development, greenfield/brownfield, contaminated land, flooding, environmental impacts), urban air quality, waste management (draft National Waste Strategy), Acidification (effects of forestry on controlled waters) and diffuse pollution (Best management Practices).

East of Scotland Water (ESWA)

14.8 ESWA’s main comments relate to economic growth, housing and the environment. They are looking at settlement capacity study just now across the Structure Plan Area. also, make reference to their environmental policy.

Argyll, The Isles, Loch Lomond, Stirling and Trossachs Tourist Board

14.9 Consider there is scope for some development of new tourism facilities which are based on the area’s natural appeal or will help to attract target markets. Emphasis should also be strengthening quality of the existing product. Development sites should be identified at strategic locations. Consider that a quality retail initiative to ensure retail staff have the skills to provide a quality service to both local people and visitors to the area. Need to ensure that increased range of jobs and social opportunities is extended to more rural areas and not confined to urban settlements. Need to develop civic pride in -27-

some areas. Need to increase interest in investment in area, creating wider range of job opportunities.

Forth Valley Health Board

14.10 Welcome the consultation. Refer to the green paper “Working Together for a Healthier Scotland” and the need to look at the wider socio-economic issues affecting communities.

The Forestry Authority

14.11 Main forestry issues which they wish to see addressed in the Plan is a comprehensive review of the Indicative Forestry Strategy, and opportunities for positively encouraging the creation of new woodlands and forests.

Scottish Rights of Way Society

14.12 Seeks comprehensive review of assertion of rights of ways throughout Structure Plan area. Provide comment on legislation and other detailed issues.

Friends of the Ochils

14.13 Raise the question of whether a subject plan is required for the Ochils. Raise the need to balance rights and responsibilities of different parties (owners, economic users, recreational users, wider public). Need to control development to protect the hills. The aims of sustainability should be both ecological and economic. Protective designation; tighten present wide scope for ‘permitted development’. Have uniform and clear guidelines. Consultation and wide dialogue. provide detailed comments on issues relating to specific types of land-use and development.

East Dunbartonshire Council

14.14 Highlight the need to retain existing Structure Plan Policy of limited expansion of housing in the commuter villages of the Western Rural Area of Stirling, in order to minimise the impact of additional commuter traffic. Raise the importance of the Campsie-Touch Hills as an important landscape element which should continue to be protected, and in any re-assessment of the existing forestry strategy take account of the sensitive nature of this area. The new Plan should recognise the potential for a Regional Park in the Campsie Hills. Joint working required over accesses to proposed National Park, including A809, A81 and B822/A891.

West Dunbartonshire Council

14.15 The main area of concern is the implementation of the Loch Lomond Local Plan policies on a consistent basis in all constituent authorities. Policies should be included to support Policy 6 of the Loch Lomond Local Plan regarding the occupancy of new housing. Continue restriction of new housing in western Rural Area to discourage the growth of commuting to/from Glasgow. Policies supporting the strategic aims of Local Plan and looking to -28-

designation as a National Park. Policies to support links with long distance footpaths and cycleways and protection of public access in forestry areas.

North Lanarkshire Council

14.16 Commend the involvement of the public and other consultees at an early stage in the Plan preparation. Raise concern over any new major out-of- centre shopping development where it is likely to draw a significant proportion of its trade from North Lanarkshire. Need to consider Campsie Hills as a Regional Park and need to take account of Local Forestry Framework prepared for that area.

British Land Energy Association (per Brodies Solicitors)

14.17 Plan should include policies favouring renewable energy development and, in particular, wind energy developments.

Railtrack

14.18 Consider that the following should be reviewed jointly:-

• Reinstating a passenger train service between Stirling and Alloa • Reactivation of the line to Alloa/Kincardine for freight traffic. • development of freight depot at Broadleys Business Park which would relieve congestion of the central belt area.

Standard Life Property Investment (per Hillier Parker)

14.19 As owners of the Thistle Centre, Stirling believe that Stirling should be sustained as the premiere centre. They state they would object to any proliferation of off-centre personal shopping centres and their threat to the vitality and viability of town centres.

Scottish House Builders Association

14.20 Encouragement of more housing; this is essential to combat reducing services and counter the pull to large centres of customers currently using the smaller centres. Like Perth, the area is a key location for developing the economy of Scotland. To ensure its success, to help achieve sustainability and to help keep house prices affordable much greater release of housing and other land should take place where the market wants it. The environment must not be forgotten, but there has to be some sacrifice to bring greater benefit.

Sustrans Scotland

14.21 Improvement to town centre shopping environment through pedestrianisation and high quality town-scoping, coupled with quality public transport access. Reduction in car use. APPENDIX 2

CLACKMANNANSHIRE AND STIRLING STRUCTURE PLAN WORKSHOPS AND OTHER MEETINGS.

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Over and above the consultation carried out via the individual questionnaires a series of community workshops and other meetings have been held, with a total attendance of around 167 people. This report summarises the findings of each of these meetings.

1.2 Within Stirling Council area a series of community workshops were held throughout the area, together with a schools workshop and presentations to Strathfillan Community Council, Plean Community Council and the Rural Outreach Network. In Clackmannanshire one workshop was held in Alloa along with a youth debate. The workshops in Stirling area and Clackmannanshire differed in their approach. Every meeting involved a short presentation on the new Structure Plan. In Stirling Council area, the meetings then split into groups of between five and eight people to work through an example of the major development option (taken for illustrative purposes to be around 7000 houses plus associated business, industry, shopping and transport). Each group located different combinations of housing and other development using the map and stickers provided giving reasons for their choices. A short presentation was also given at all the Area Forum meetings. Within Clackmannanshire, the workshop split up into 3 groups of 5/6 persons who then debated the key strategic issues that the Structure Plan would need to address and reported back to the main group. The youth debate was split into 2 groups of 10 children of secondary school age.

1.3 The following sections outline the comments given at all the workshops and other meetings.

2 ALLOA

Attendance: 17 2.1 The three workshop groups debated each of the key strategic issues outlined in the questionnaire before reporting back at the end. Common themes came out of the three groups.

2.2 In terms of housing, there was a common view that the existing Green Belt should be protected and that the area needs more housing. Some saw further potential for long-term growth area(s) and others thought housing land should be dispersed across many settlements. Although pressure exists in the Hillfoots area, some thought that there was limited scope, certainly for expansion. Other thoughts were that housing should be more inter-related with business and industry.

2.3 In terms of shopping, some thought that Alloa town centre should focus on providing specialist shops in an upgraded quality of environment. Views were expressed that there should be no more large scale retailing in Stirling and no more out of town shopping. Business and Industry was considered a key to the future success of the area, reducing the need for people to travel to work. -30-

2.4 The environment was considered extremely important in the area. The need to promote a hierarchy of sites to promote a strategic network e.g. River corridors, the need to see Green Belts as a management tool, and the need to reflect biodiversity were all viewed to be key issues. The general consensus was that preferred areas should be identified for opencast coal mining. In identifying waste management facilities, proximity was considered to be the key.

2.5 The re-opening of the Alloa-Stirling rail line was considered to be key to the area, as well as the new proposed Kincardine Bridge. Better integration of public transport through land use, identification of new cycle routes, general improvement of public transport and upgrading of B9140 as a spine road were all highlighted.

Conclusion

2.6 A reasonable turn out, although there was not a good cross-section of people from throughout Clackmannanshire. There was a general consensus of view that the key strategic issues were highlighted within the questionnaire, with the exception of transport, where further emphasis was put on improving accessibility with the re-opening of the Alloa-Stirling rail line and the new Kincardine Bridge.

3 YOUTH DEBATE - ALLOA

Attendance: 20 3.1 A number of secondary schools were represented and a 45 minute debate focused on what the youths considered to be the strategic issues which should be addressed.

3.2 Much of the debate focused on shopping, transport and the environment. In terms of shopping, the youths considered that Alloa town centre did not provide a range of shops, particularly clothing shops and the majority travelled to Stirling to purchase “personal” goods e.g. clothing. Many commented that the environmental quality of Alloa could be enhanced, although they did not perceive it to be poor in that respect.

3.3 The majority considered public transport provision to be poor, particularly with main towns outwith Clackmannanshire, Stirling in particular. Many expressed views on the high quality of Clackmannanshire’s countryside and considered that it should be protected and enhanced.

Conclusions

3.4 The youth debate, which was organised by Clackmannanshire Council as part of a series of debates during National Youth Week, was very useful and worthwhile. The youths involved, averaging 14 years old, were keen to express their views and be involved in the future land-use planning of their area.

Community workshops -31-

4 COWIE

Attendance 4 4.1 Cowie/Plean should accommodate 200 new houses each, anymore might mean they would loose their identity. A new settlement of 2000 houses between Gargunnock and Stirling. 400 houses at Balfron, as is to have a new high school and can serve other communities in the area. 1000 houses at Manor Powis as it is close to Stirling, especially with the new road. 50 houses at Crianlarich, Killin, Callander to meet needs in the Western Rural Area. 1000 houses in Alloa. 1000 houses in the Hillfoots. 1000 houses at Strathblane.

4.2 Pirnhall was identified as a high tech site and land at Cowie was identified for a new business park, utilising the Cowie Rail Halt and employing local people. A development like that at the old town jail could be located in Balfron to provide local employment. Bandeath could be developed as a business park and Kildean could have a role in the provision of workshop type accommodation. Workshop type accommodation could also be important in some rural settlements.

4.3 The transport links to support this development were viewed to be important- ie a circular bus route linking Cowie, Plean and Fallin. A link between Cowie, Fallin, Plean and the motorway was also viewed to be important as was the Cowie rail halt. Improved public transport to Gargunnock would be necessary as would improved links between Stirling and Alloa as well as Alloa and other areas via the Kincardine Bridge.

Conclusion

4.4 A small turnout but a useful discussion which concluded that major growth could improve access to housing and jobs ( depending on the type of housing and nature of employment) and could reduce car use.(but dependent on public transport.). Cowie community council have expressed an interest in getting involved in the process and it is hoped that a workshop will be held with them in the near future. This meeting along with the completed questionnaires returned from Cowie, Fallin and Plean should help to get a slightly wider sample of the views of people in this area.

5 DUNBLANE

Attendance 30. Group 1

5.1 200 houses, workshops for Callander, 200 houses Aberfoyle, 200 houses for Killearn and Balfron with workshops and 50 houses for Drymen, Buchlyvie and Thornhill. 1000 houses with a new town centre and workshops at Gargunnock. Re-opening of train link to Balfron. High tech development at Ashfield/. No development at Dunblane. Improved Stirling town centre. 1000 houses, workshop and town centre for Cowie. 2000 house New Settlement at Manor Powis with improved public transport link and a new town centre. High tech development for Cowie. Clackmannanshire should take most of the new development, as employment is important in this area. The Stirling/Alloa railway line will be important. Building houses must come with jobs and other facilities. Need good transport to serve major development -32-

areas- but must be efficient and non polluting. New housing at Balfron/Killearn would serve commuters. Town centre development was favoured rather than out of town. Existing town centres must be redeveloped to counter the attraction of large out of town centres. There will be a need to further develop tourism. Felt that whilst medium scale expansion might be appropriate for Clackmannanshire, Stirling and Dunblane should have only small scale expansion.

Group 2

5.2 This group felt they required information on mineral assets, wildlife habitats, working zones( travel times), infrastructure before they could make their choice. Support for development centred on the Eastern Villages joining Cowie and Plean, making use of the existing rail route. Need for around 100 more houses in Dunblane but restricted to starter/retirement homes. Need for workshops and high tech in Dunblane to provide jobs and reduce the number of commuters. Need for pedestrianisation of the high street in Dunblane and the improvement of local shopping. Need to capitalise on rail links - the Alloa- Forth Link. Strathblane/Killearn could take more housing, but most in Alloa. Some concern over protecting the Hillfoots area. 5000 house new settlement with rail and bus links for the Eastern villages area, 1000 houses for Alloa. 200 houses in Strathblane and Killearn.

Group 3

5.3 200 houses each for all the Hillfoots towns, 1000 for Alloa with an improved town centre, rail link and a new business park. 1000 houses and workshops for the Eastern villages, 1000 houses and a business park for Stirling. 1000 houses for Manor Powis, 2000 for Bridge of Allan. No development for Dunblane but 200 houses each for Ashfield and Kinbuck. 50 houses for Doune with improved local shops and workshops in Callander. 50 houses each for Gargunnock, Kippen and Buchlyvie, 400 houses for Balfron, 400 Drymen, 200 Croftamie and 200 Killearn. Stirling town centre is poor and needs revitalised if it is to be the regional shopping centre. There is a need for more individual/specialist shops. Pedestrianisation is also poor. Found it difficult to agree on development- and were conscious of having a not in my back yard attitude, but felt that new development should be concentrated in the Eastern part of the plan area where development might provide opportunities within areas of unemployment. Rural areas should not be swamped, there should be no out of town shopping and there should be a more balanced community in Dunblane. Need to achieve a critical mass in smaller villages like Ashfield and Kinbuck and to have more housing in the west to serve Glasgow commuters. Better rail links required between Edinburgh and Glasgow including out of town business parks and shopping centres. There should be more cycle routes in all the towns and villages and a better bus service is required for the western villages.

Group 4

5.4 50 houses and workshops for Killin and Strathyre, 100 houses with improved local shopping and workshops for Callander, 200 houses for Doune, 50 Thornhill, Kippen and Buchlyvie with a train station in Balfron. 400 houses and workshops for Strathblane, 600 houses, improved shopping and a train station for Alloa, 200 houses, workshops and local shopping in the Eastern area of Clackmannanshire. -33-

5.5 High tech development, business park and improved local shopping for Dollar with rail link for the Hillfoots towns. 400 houses, business park and improved town centre for Dunblane. 2000 houses for Stirling, 1000 houses between Bannockburn and the motorway, the other 1000 in the Kildean area. Rail link to Balfron. A small amount of development scattered throughout western area. Disagreement within the group as to whether Plean or Gargunnock were suitable locations for new development. Need for employment and local shops in housing areas. Plan development to minimise travel demand and improve existing town centres, no out of town development. New town centre- East of Plean. No out of town shopping development. Expand shopping in Stirling, Dunblane, Alloa and Dollar.

Group 5

5.6 200 houses and workshops in Callander, no development on the Carse, 50 houses for Thornhill, Kippen and Doune with improved local shopping. No development between Bridge of Allan and Dunblane. 400 houses for Dunblane with an improved town centre. A new station at Ashfield. 2000 houses for Stirling using brownfield sites wherever possible. 600 houses split between the Eastern villages making use of the Cowie rail halt. 2000 houses and a new town centre in the Pirnhall area. 400 houses and improved town centre for Alloa, 50 houses each for the Hillfoots villages, Drymen, Strathblane and Killearn. 200 houses, local shops and workshops for Balfron linked to improvements in public transport. Cycleways linking rural villages. Callander to Doune to Dunblane, Aberfoyle and Thornhill. No housing development in Bridge of Allan or Stirling,. All or most settlements should take some expansion but existing Greenspace in settlements should be protected.

Conclusion

5.7 General feeling that Dunblane has had enough new housing and that the lack of associated community facilities, local shops and local employment needs to be addressed. Need to create a more balanced community in Dunblane rather than solely a commuter based population. In general it was felt that most new development should concentrate in the Eastern area of Stirling and Clackmannanshire where it could benefit unemployment and the opening of the rail link. Whilst two groups did propose 400 houses for Dunblane, the other groups felt that only minimal new development for local and special needs housing would be appropriate. Enhanced public transport provision was felt to be important (there is only one bus an hour between Bridge of Allan and Dunblane). Need for integrated transport strategy. Pricing cars on roads and in town centres should be considered.. Enhanced footpaths, bus, rail and cycle routes would also be important. Need to enhance local authority investment in existing shopping areas, improve local shopping and attract more individual specialist shops into Stirling.

5.8 The groups were generally not in favour of the major expansion option preferring medium or small scale expansion -34-

6 CALLANDER

Attendance 15 Group 1

6.1 Substantial increase in size of Callander-2000 houses, business park and town centre also at Gargunnock. Developing these centres as secondary settlements serving the rural area reducing peoples needs to travel into Stirling. Out of town shopping at Pirnhall and close to Kildean. 200 houses plus high tech development for Eastern Villages remainder in Clackmannanshire with business park at Fishcross. Need to open rail link to Alloa.

Group 2

6.2 Rail line Stirling/Alloa is important as is cycle route along the Hillfoots. 1000 houses, high tech and town centre in Dollar, 200 houses, local shops and workshops east Clacks close to new bridge. Business park between Stirling and Clackmannanshire. Expand Gargunnock with 1000 houses, local shops and workshops. 200 houses plus a business park and local shops for Balfron. 200 houses for Drymen. 50 Aberfofyle and Gartmore with workshops and local shops. Callander 200 houses plus high tech development. and workshops. 50 houses for Strathyre and Killin. Improve bus service Crainlarich to Callander.

Group 3

6.3 Improved bus service from Aberfoyle to Balfron and between Lochernhead, Callander and Stirling. Train route- Stirling/Alloa important. Housing concentrated around Balfron and Clacks. 200 houses for Callander with workshops also in Gartmore, Aberfoyle and . No development Stirling, Bridge of Allan, Dunblane corridor. Business park at Pirnhall and Hillfoots also to the East of Stirling.

Conclusion

6.4 It was generally felt that the majority of development should be in East Stirling and Clackmannanshire with industry and homes concentrated around existing infrastructure. Existing road and rail links were considered to be important. Balanced development of rural villages would be required with the transport to facilitate this. The idea of having a hierarchy of settlements with sub regional centres ie. Callander, Fallin/Cowie and Gargunnock was raised, as these could then support the rural areas reducing peoples need to travel. Suggested that Callander could be doubled in size( although the majority did not agree with this), with shopping and services which would reduce peoples need to travel to Stirling. It was felt that Stirling was already overstretched.

6.5 View that teleworking was particularly important in the rural area and that provision of appropriate computer infrastructure could be as important as improving public transport. Accepted that some growth of the rural population would be required to achieve balanced communities, make shops more viable and support local schools and other services. People felt that private cars -35-

would always be necessary in rural areas but it should be possible to reduce use in the urban area.

7 BALFRON

Attendance 30 Group 1

7.1 5000 houses between Dunblane and Bridge of Allan using existing transport services and retaining the character of the villages of Balfron, Killearn, Drymen and Gartmore. 1000 houses and a business park for Cowie. 25 houses each for Lochearnhead, Aberfoyle and Buchlyvie. 1000 houses for Fallin. Need to provide employment locally to reduce travel- workshops for Callander and Kippen, Business parks at old Killearn Hospital/Bridge of Allan, Plean and Alloa. High tech development at Tullibody and Balfron. Centre Parcs type leisure development around Callander or Ballat/Gartmore

7.2 Railway from Stirling to Strathblane- Glasgow. Bus route Callander Lochearnhead and the A811 Stirling to Glasgow. Cycle path along A811 Stirling to Glasgow with a tourist cycleway from Drymen, , and Aberfoyle. Need town centre for new development between Bridge of Allan/ Dunblane. The environment of Balfron and the surrounding area should be protected as well as the Lake of Monteith, the Lochs, Strathyre, the Ochils and the Campsie fells. This group were generally happy with this option- concentrating major development around existing infrastructure with moderate expansion of villages, retaining local facilities and quality of life. They felt that there would be a need for expansion of the forestry industry replacing less viable hill farms, forestry could be associated with craft workshops. Expansion of tourism will also be required.

Group 2

7.3 2000 houses for Bridge of Allan and Alloa. 400 for the Eastern Villages, 200 at Doune, 50 Gargunnock, 200 Kippen, 100 Buchlyvie, 200 Balfron, 200 Strathblane, 150 Killearn and 200 at Croftamie. Holistic medical centre and fashion centre with heliport and 200 houses at Tyndrum. 200 houses for Callander with re-opened train station. More housing for Arnprior to support local shop etc. Out of town centre with cinema between Drymen and Buchlyvie. Local shops and workshops for all the settlements. Major development close to main roads. Sustainable business communities to cut down on travel. Flanders Moss must be protected.

7.4 Indigenous trees should be planted where possible with support for community woodlands. Community workshops/assembly centres should be encouraged.

Group 3

7.5 4000 house New Settlement close to the M9- Cowie/Plean, with good transport to Stirling and new industrial development in Clackmannan. No development on the Carse. 2000 houses in Alloa, 200 in Callander, 25 Killearn and Strathblane, 50 to Drymen with local shops and workshops, 200 houses to Callander with improved bus route. Improved public transport -36-

between Balfron and Gargunnock.. All development in rural areas are for local needs. Need for local workshops to reduce commuting. Business park in Clackmannanshire, High tech industry at Balfron on site of high school

7.6 Restore rail line from Stirling to Glasgow. Shopping can be done via the Internet. Existing town centres to be improved.. The countryside around the western villages should be protected. All of the group apart from one felt that large scale development was not appropriate. Agreed that car use would have to be reduced so houses in rural area should be for only local needs.

Group 4

7.7 Housing should be close to Motorway and railway as should high tech development and business parks. The rail link from Stirling to Alloa should be reopened. There should be a new settlement west of Dunblane(5000) but felt 2000 would be more appropriate with business park and shops. 100 new houses in Clackmannanshire, with 200 in Callander, Menstrie, Alva, Tullibody, Fallin and Western Rural Area. Workshops in Tullibody, Killearn and Aberfoyle. High tech/business parks- Alloa, Fallin and to the West of Dunblane. Need to reopen rail link between Alloa and Stirling. Bus services from Stirling to Dollar need to be improved, Local shopping required in Dunblane and Clackmannanshire. Need to protect the environment of Drymen, Buchlyvie, Aberfoyle, Kippen and the Ochils. Need for sheltered housing in western rural villages. This group felt this was to much development, that 4000 houses would be enough, concentrated in Clackmannanshire and Dunblane.

Group 5

7.8 2000 houses between Cowie and Fallin with jobs to support these. Rail link Hillfoots/Stirling/Alloa. Regional park for the Hillfoots and the Campsies. Workshops for the Killearn hospital site. Rail and cycle way to Callander. 200 houses each for Doune/Callander . 50 houses for Drymen and Balfron. Exploit potential of the Forth Corridor, through a specific organisation/task group ( Forth Initiative).

Conclusion

7.9 Recognised need to provide local employment in rural areas. The role of tourism was also recognised with ideas for a Centre Parcs type development and an international health spa resort at Tyndrum Although one group felt that major expansion should be promoted most people favoured the medium or small scale expansion option. There was general agreement that development should be encouraged in the Eastern area and some consensus that local jobs and shopping provision could be important in rural areas. Whilst one group opposed further development in the Balfron area, particularly Strathblane most felt that some growth could be appropriate, even if only to support local needs. Interestingly a number of people at the meeting felt the Dunblane area should accommodate further major expansion, although this is not a view that has been widely expressed at other meetings. It was generally felt that the major development option would require too much new development. -37-

8 STIRLING

Attendance- 18 Group 1

8.1 400 houses for Stirling with improvements to the town centre and environment. 2000 houses for Cowie with a rail station, local shops and workshops. 400 houses for Alloa with an improved town centre, 50 houses each for the Hillfoots towns, 1000 house new settlement, town centre and high tech development to take advantage of the proposed Kincardine Bridge link. 600 houses for Dunblane but need to protect environment between Bridge of Allan and Dunblane. 1000 houses, local shops and workshops for Callander with improved public transport links. Improved public transport to Balfron with 400 houses, local shops and workshops. Also local shops and workshops for Killearn. 50 houses each for Gartmore, Drymen and Aberfoyle with a new cycle link between Brig O Turk and Callander. Local shops, 100 houses and workshops for Lochearnhead. Expansion of Northern villages to meet local needs.

8.2 High tech near the Kincardine Bridge. Local workshops especially where new houses and in villages to the west. Rail link from Alloa to Edinburgh important as is rail link to the Eastern villages. Need to improve road links. Need link between eastern villages and Alloa. Need to concentrate on improving local town centres. Need to protect Stirling environment - prevent merger with Dunblane and to protect tourist value of the north west. Generally felt this option involved too many houses and it would be difficult to attract a level of employment to support this.

Group 2

8.3 50 houses and local shops for Fintry, 5o houses at Gargunnock with an additional 250 between Stirling and Gargunnock. 200 houses for Bridge of Allan but no development for Dunblane. 200 houses between Stirling and Tullibody, 200 houses , workshops and high tech for Hillfoots and the eastern area of Clackmannanshire. 200 houses for Kippen with workshops and a major expansion of 1000 houses for Balfron with local shops and workshops.

8.4 200 houses in Callander with local shops, workshops and a re-opened rail link. improved bus service to Balfron and a cycle link along the Hillfoots. Housing linked with areas of work. Expansion near routes of trains or possible train routes. 7000 houses appears too much. Improved bus and rail links will help with expansion. Housing should be near rail station particularly small single person units. Need small workshop facilities at the edge of the development. More use of Park and ride. Need a railway station in Bannockburn to serve the existing housing. The views to and from Stirling Castle and the Wallace monument should be protected. Manor Powis bing should have recreation role.

Group 3

8.5 Improved local shops in all the Hillfoots villages, 2000 houses, high tech development, a business park and improved town centre for Alloa and workshops in Tullibody. Workshops and 200 houses for Cowie, workshops for Plean and Cowie. Business Park, and 200 houses for Stirling with improvement to the town centre. No development between Dunblane and -38-

Bridge of Allan. High tech development in area between the university and .. Scope for a heritage/living museum development/theme park at Oxbow Park/Forthside. 50 houses for Gargunnock, Kippen and Buchlyvie. 100 houses for Callander with workshops, 200 houses for Aberfoyle with workshops, 200 houses and high tech development at Strathblane, 50 houses for Killin and Tyndrum with workshops. Need to use as many brownfield sites as possible and to preserve character of existing settlements. Need to concentrate jobs in Clackmannanshire due to high unemployment.

Conclusion

8.6 Generally the groups concentrated development around Stirling, the Eastern Villages and Clackmannanshire, avoiding the Western Rural area, Bridge of Allan and Dunblane. Local workshops were viewed to be important as were the concentration of small flats and houses close to rail stations. Need to improve local town centres and promote rail links between Alloa and Edinburgh as well the link to the Eastern Villages. Need to protect the setting of Stirling and prevent merger with Dunblane. This level of housing would be difficult to achieve as it would need to be supported by an appropriate level of employment.

9 SCHOOLS WORKSHOP

9.1 Representatives from Balfron and Stirling High School attended. They felt that the exercise was very difficult, as it was difficult to have development without harming the environment or upsetting people, particularly in smaller rural settlements. They felt that in some ways it was better to have a completely new settlement as this would have less of an impact on existing communities. Chose to put a lot of their housing around the Balfron area with a new settlement near Drymen which would serve the south west area in terms of shops, a cinema etc so people would not have to travel to Stirling or Glasgow. The remainder went as an expansion to Gargunnock. They felt that it was important to protect Flanders Moss and the Carse farmland. Re opening the rail line to Balfron was considered important as was improving the bus service, particularly with gas powered busses or trams. They thought all new development should be well served by cycleways particularly linking rail and bus halts to where people live/work.

10 STRATHFILLAN COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Attendance 10 10.1 Generally felt that the community had little interest in what happened in the Stirling area as a whole, and felt that they looked more towards , Fort William and Glasgow. Most people travel to these areas for shopping etc rather than Stirling. Felt that whilst they were on the periphery of the Stirling Council area they were in a central location in relation to these three main centres and could benefit from this locational advantage. Public transport links outwith the area better than to Stirling. Travel time to Stirling or even Callander too great. Felt that the area could support a secondary school if the catchment were taken to include the Argyle area and that Callander was too far for School kids to travel. -39-

10.2 General view that the area should expand to a size which could support local shops, a doctors surgery, a vets etc but should retain the character of a village. Also felt that there was scope for pockets of development outwith the existing village envelopes.

10.3 One group suggested both Tyndrum and Crainlarich could take an additional 200 houses whilst the other felt 50 would be sufficient if the character of the area was to be protected. With the rail link it was felt storage and distribution could play a role in providing jobs. Tourism would be important but should not be the sole source of employment. High tech development and teleworking would be important particularly given the areas accessibility. Felt that more jobs were required particularly given the high proportion of local children who achieve university degrees, would like to work in the area, but have no opportunities to do so. Felt that the Structure Plan had to be flexible enough to cope with changing circumstances.

10.4 There was some concern that the Structure Plan would be imposed from Stirling/Scottish Office rather than being built up from individual community development plans and that this was not an appropriate way of carrying out consultation.

11 RURAL OUTREACH NETWORK

Attendance 8 11.1 This meeting focused on the rural issues which it was felt the new plan should be seeking to address. The group highlighted the need to achieve sustainable rural communities, felt there was a need to decentralise council services providing employment for local people, to improve transport by accepting that some subsidy would be required and to reduce peoples needs to travel by improving local shopping and community facilities.

12 MEETING WITH KEY BUSINESSES AND ORGANISATIONS

12.1 A meeting was held at Inglewood House, Alloa with a number of key businesses and organisations on the strategic issues. 14 representatives attended. A presentation was given on the progress and timescales for the new Structure Plan, before highlighted the key strategic issues.

12.2 Some of the key issues raised were:-

• Sustainability across the whole Plan area. • Range and choice of housing sites. • Need for small scale business sites. • Need to differentiate retailing centres. • Need to increase accessibility to and from Clackmannanshire in particular, the new Kincardine Bridge, re-opening of Alloa-Stirling raillink and upgrading of A907 all key factors. • Need to protect green spaces within towns. • Countryside access. -40-

Conclusions

12.3 Whilst this meeting was not as well attended as hoped, it did provide a useful forum for some discussion on the key issues.