Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee
Due to Scottish Government guidance related to COVID-19, this meeting will be held remotely.
Thursday, 3 December, 2020 - 10.00 a.m.
AGENDA
Page Nos.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – Members of the Committee are asked to declare any interest(s) in particular items on the agenda and the nature of the interest(s) at this stage.
3. CHANGE TO MEMBERSHIP
Members are asked to note that Councillors Sharon Green-Wilson and Alice McGarry have replaced Councillors Julie Ford and Kate Stewart as members of the Environment, Finance and Communities Scrutiny Committee.
4. MINUTE - Minute of Meeting of Environment & Protective Services Sub- 3 - 6 Committee of 17 September 2020.
5. SEVERE FLOODING - AUGUST 2020 FURTHER INVESTIGATION – Report 7 - 29 by the Head of Assets, Transportation and Environment
6. PUBLIC BODIES (CLIMATE CHANGE) DUTIES REPORTING 2019-20 – 30 - 33 Report by the Head of Assets, Transportation and Environment
7. FIFE COUNCIL BIODIVERSITY DUTY REPORT 2018-2020 – Report by the 34 - 82 Head of Communities & Neighbourhoods
8. FIFE’S AIR QUALITY STRATEGY 2015-2020 – PROGRESS UPDATE FOR 83 - 89 2020 – Report by the Head of Protective Services
9. ENTERPRISE AND ENVIRONMENT DIRECTORATE SECTION/SERVICE 90 - 109 PERFORMANCE REPORTS – Report by the Executive Director - Enterprise and Environment
10. FIFE RESOURCE SOLUTIONS PERFORMANCE REPORT – Report by the 110 - 119 Head of Assets, Transportation and Environment
11. ENVIRONMENT & PROTECTIVE SERVICES SUB-COMMITTEE WORK 120 - 121 PROGRAMME
Members are reminded that should they have queries on the detail of a report they should, where possible, contact the report authors in advance of the meeting to seek clarification.
Morag Ferguson Head of Legal and Democratic Services Finance and Corporate Services 1 Fife House North Street Glenrothes Fife, KY7 5LT
26 November, 2020
If telephoning, please ask for: Elizabeth Mair, Committee Officer, Fife House Telephone: 03451 555555, ext. 442304; email: [email protected]
Agendas and papers for all Committee meetings can be accessed on www.fife.gov.uk/committees
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2020 EPS 61
THE FIFE COUNCIL - ENVIRONMENT & PROTECTIVE SERVICES SUB-COMMITTEE - REMOTE
17 September, 2020 10.00 a.m. - 11.45 a.m.
PRESENT: Councillors Ross Vettraino (Convener), David Barratt, Rod Cavanagh, Gavin Ellis, Derek Glen, David Graham, Jean Hall Muir, Judy Hamilton, Andy Heer, Gordon Langlands, Derek Noble, Dominic Nolan, Jonny Tepp and Jan Wincott.
ATTENDING: Keith Winter, Executive Director - Enterprise & Environment, Ken Gourlay, Head of Assets, Transportation and Environment, Nigel Kerr, Head of Protective Services, Ross Spalding, Service Manager (Climate Change & Zero Waste), Fife Resource Solutions, Enterprise & Environment; Barry Collie, Accountant, Finance and Elizabeth Mair, Committee Officer, Legal & Democratic Services.
ALSO IN Chief Superintendent Derek McEwan and Superintendent John ATTENDANCE: Anderson, Police Scotland; Local Senior Officer Mark Bryce and Group Commander Calum Bruce, Scottish Fire & Rescue Service.
150. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillors David Barratt and Jan Wincott both declared an interest in paragraph 155 - Zero Waste Fife - Resources Strategy and Action Plan below, as they were on the Board of Fife Resource Solutions, however they considered that this was covered by a Specific Exclusion so they would remain and participate.
151. MINUTE
The Sub-Committee considered the minute of meeting of the Environment & Protective Services Committee of 6 February 2020.
Decision
The Sub-Committee agreed to approve the minute.
152. JOINT HEALTH PROTECTION PLAN 2020-22
The Sub-Committee considered a report by the Head of Protective Services seeking approval of the Joint Health Protection Plan 2020-22 developed jointly between NHS Fife, Fife Council and partners.
Decision
The Sub-Committee agreed to approve the Joint Health Protection Plan 2020-22.
153./
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2020 EPS 62
153. PROTECTIVE SERVICES ENFORCEMENT POLICY
The Sub-Committee considered a report by the Head of Protective Services advising of the outcome of a review of the Protective Services enforcement policy, covering Environmental Health, Trading Standards, Building Standards and Public Safety, carried out following changes to the Directorate structure which included Protective Services becoming a standalone Service.
Decision
The Sub-Committee approved the adoption of the amended Protective Services Enforcement Policy.
154. REVIEW OF MOSSMORRAN & BRAEFOOT BAY COMMUNITY & SAFETY COMMITTEE
The Sub-Committee considered a report by the Head of Protective Services providing an update on the review of the two working groups set up as part of the planning conditions for the Mossmorran and Braefoot Bay facilities and seeking approval for a change in the Constitution and Terms of Reference of the Mossmorran and Braefoot Bay Community and Safety Committee and associated groups.
Decision
The Sub-Committee:-
(1) approved the proposals as detailed in section 4 of the report;
(2) remitted it to the Head of Protective Services to implement these changes through engagement with the Mossmorran and Braefoot Bay Community and Safety Committee and associated groups; and
(3) agreed that the updated and revised governance documents be submitted to a future committee meeting for approval.
155. ZERO WASTE FIFE - RESOURCES STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN UPDATE
The Sub-Committee considered a report by the Head of Assets, Transportation & Environment providing an update on progress towards delivery of the Zero Waste Fife – Resources Strategy and Action Plan.
Decision
The Sub-Committee agreed:
(1) to approve the action plan for 2020-22 as set out in Appendix 1 of the report;
(2) the development of two additional targets to monitor progress as highlighted in section 3 of the report; and
(3) the reporting period set out in section 3.3 and Appendix 1 of the report. 4
2020 EPS 63
156. POLICE SCOTLAND, FIFE DIVISION PERFORMANCE REPORT - QUARTERS 2 & 3 2019/2020
The Sub-Committee considered a report by the Chief Superintendent, Police Scotland, presenting the Fife Division Performance Report for Quarters 2 & 3, 2019- 2020.
Decision
The Sub-Committee agreed to note:-
(1) the performance information contained in the report and appendix; and
(2) that the performance figures for Quarter 4 would be circulated to members for information.
157. POLICE SCOTLAND, FIFE DIVISION PERFORMANCE REPORT QUARTER 1 2020/21
The Sub-Committee considered a report by the Chief Superintendent, Police Scotland, presenting the Fife Division Performance Report for Quarter 1, 2020-2021.
Decision
The Sub-Committee agreed to note the performance information contained in the report and appendix.
158. SCOTTISH FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE LOCAL PLAN ANNUAL PERFORMANCE REPORT
The Sub-Committee considered a report by the Local Senior Officer, Scottish Fire & Rescue Service, providing incident information for the period 1st April 2019 to 31st March 2020 to enable the Committee to scrutinise the Fife Local Senior Officer Area against its key performance indicators (KPIs).
Decision
The Sub-Committee noted the progress across a range of KPI’s as contained within the report.
159. 2019/20 REVENUE MONITORING PROVISIONAL OUTTURN
The Sub-Committee considered a joint report by the Executive Director, Finance & Corporate Services and the Executive Director, Enterprise & Environment, providing an update on the provisional outturn financial position for the 2019/20 financial year for the areas in scope of the Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee.
Decision
The Sub-Committee noted the current financial performance and activity as detailed in the report.
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2020 EPS 64
160. 2019/20 CAPITAL MONITORING PROVISIONAL OUTTURN
The Sub-Committee considered a joint report by the Executive Director, Finance & Corporate Services and the Executive Director, Enterprise & Environment, providing an update on the Capital Investment Plan and advising on the provisional financial position for the 2019/20 financial year for areas in scope of the Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee.
Decision
The Sub-Committee noted the current financial performance and activity as detailed in the report.
161. DECISION TAKEN UNDER DELEGATED AUTHORITY
The Sub-Committee considered a report by the Head of Legal & Democratic Services advising of a decision taken by officers, acting under delegated authority and within the remit of the Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee.
Decision
The Sub-Committee noted the decision taken under delegated authority, as set out in the appendix to the report.
162. ENVIRONMENT & PROTECTIVE SERVICES SUB-COMMITTEE WORK PROGRAMME
The Committee considered the current Envionment & Protective Services Sub- Committee work programme. The Executive Director, Enterprise & Environment, advised that the work programme would be reviewed in light of recent changes to the Council's governance arrangements.
Decision
The Committee noted the current Envionment & Protective Services Sub-Committee work programme which would be updated as appropriate and in light of recent changes to the Council's governance arrangements.
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6 Environment and Protective Services Sub Committee
3rd December 2020 Agenda Item No. 5
Severe Flooding - August 2020 further investigation. Report by: Ken Gourlay – Head of Assets, Transportation and Environment
Wards Affected: Fife wide Purpose To update the Sub-Committee on the decision by the Policy and Coordination Committee of 19 November 2020 in regard to the report on the August flood events in Central and South Fife. Recommendation(s) It is recommended that the Sub-Committee agree: 1. consultation with all Councillors to garner further flooding information they have been made aware of by their constituents and incorporate this information into a full register of flood events; 2. that a future report be submitted to the Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee on 28 January 2021 which would include a full register of flood events across Fife detailing the location and key processes involved; 3. submitting a further report to the Policy & Coordination Committee looking at the Council wide response to flooding events, lessons learned, to examine additional resources required to evaluate all events within the register, and report on how Fife may benefit more from Scottish Government funding. Resource Implications To carry out all the identified investigations and follow-up works detailed in Appendix 1 to this will require additional funding to deliver a proactive repair and maintenance regime. A programme of works to carry out flood mitigation measures will also be required and an underspend of funding from another service area of £0.325m will be used to support this work in the current financial year. Additional costs, budget and decision making be pursued to deal with the demands on the Flooding Team to fully investigate the events of August 2020 for a report back to Policy and Coordination Committee. Any mitigation measures greater than £0.010 requiring additional Capital resources to deliver. Legal & Risk Implications There is a risk that continued reactive mitigation could lead to a higher number of claims made to the Council for remuneration in line with perceived Council liability to protect private property. Carrying out investigation and follow up works will help to mitigate against this risk. Impact Assessment An EqIA is not required as this report does not propose a change or revision to existing policies and practices.
7 Consultation Consultation has been undertaken with, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Water, Emergency Resilience, Finance and Corporate Services, and Communities Directorates.
1.0 Background
1.1 The report at Appendix 1 was presented to the Policy and Coordination Committee on 19 November 2020 detailing all sites reported to Fife Council Out of Hours Contact Centre, as well as Roads and Transportation staff directly, and detailed works carried out in relation to flooding in August 2020. 1.2 After deliberation and discussion by the Policy and Coordination Committee it was agreed: 1.2.1 that a report be submitted to the Environment and Protective Services Sub- Committee which would include a full register of flood events across Fife detailing the location and key processes involved. 1.2.2 that the Council be proactive following each flood event by inviting external bodies (Police, Fire, SEPA) and local representatives to detail all flooding events 1.2.3 that a full report be submitted back to Policy and Coordination Committee looking at the Council wide response to flooding events and lessons learned; and 1.2.4 to examine additional resources for the full list of Appendix 1 actions this year and provide information on how Fife may benefit more from Scottish Government funding
2.0 Issues and Options
2.1 Fife was subject to severe disruption from extreme rainfall events on 11th/12th August and 25th August 2020 which caused severe flooding to many locations across Fife. There was damage to roads, structures, private properties, council buildings as well as service disruption. This disruption was discussed at length within a report (Appendix 1) at the Policy and Coordination Committee on 19 November 2020 where various issues and concerns were raised. These were: 2.1.1 the list provided only identified sites that were reported to Fife Council on the days of the events, and as such was incomplete as it did not cover all incidents that members were aware of, having had these reported to them after the event by constituents, directly. 2.1.2 full investigation will take a considerable time given the limited resources available 2.1.3 a holistic approach incorporating all services should be taken forward to ensure a best service approach to residents of Fife. 2.2 It was agreed, therefore that the Environment and Protective Services Sub Committee would consider a fuller report with a register of all sites affected in the August events. This updated register would be collated by requesting all members to complete a pro forma detailing date of event, and impacts and regularity of flooding, if known.
8 2.3 The information gained would then inform the report regarding resource implications going forward. Although there is a current agreement to use the £0.325 agreed at Policy and Coordination Committee for the current year and list provided to that committee, it should be noted that the events of August 2020 were focused mainly on south Fife. It is reasonable to suggest that future rainfall events will affect other areas in Fife to the same levels of disruption. Further resources will therefore more than likely be required in future financial years to investigate these events and develop mitigation measures as well as continue investigation of the events of August. Further work is required to develop funding solutions in terms of any additional resources required. 2.4 Additional known sites outwith south Fife will be affected by flooding in the future. There will be new sites which will require investigation and mitigation measures, given the current climate. Current resources are not at a level to manage the continued pressure being created by these events as well as delivering all other flood related functions. Therefore additional resource will be required to be considered. This will be included within the final report to the Environment and Protective Services Sub Committee in the future report discussed at paragraph 1.2 above. 3.0 Conclusions
3.1 Climate change is here to stay and the impacts of such storm events in August require equivalent levels of investigation and design to deliver mitigation measures to manage repeat flooding in the same locations. 3.2 The flood events of August were extensive causing flooding throughout South Fife. However, not all events were reported to Fife Council by the affected residents of Fife. Therefore, a more detailed record is required to fully understand the extent of the flooding. This will be collated by discussions with members and all emergency services with a view to obtaining a full register of events. This register will inform what mitigation measures, if any, are required going forward as well as examine a holistic approach, based on a lessons learnt exercise from August, on how Fife Council can look to manage future flood events. 3.3 The resource implications to deliver these measures requires detailed consideration and investigation. These considerations will be reported to a future Policy and Coordination Committee with an appropriate recommendation.
List of Appendices 1. Severe Flooding – August 2020. Report to Policy and Coordination Committee, 19 November 2020. (2020 PC 125. Parag 252)
Background Papers The following papers were relied on in the preparation of this report in terms of the Local Government (Scotland) Act, 1973: • None
Report Contact Ross Speirs Service Manager (Structural Services) Bankhead Central, Glenrothes Telephone: 03451 55 55 55, Ext No 444390 Email: [email protected]
9 APPENDIX 1 Policy and Co-ordination Committee
19 November 2020 Agenda Item No. Severe Flooding - August 2020
Report by: Ken Gourlay - Head of Assets, Transportation and Environment
Wards Affected: Fife Wide
Purpose
To update committee on the severe flooding that occurred on 11th/12th and 25th August 2020 throughout Fife, to provide details on immediate mitigation measures put in place and additional works provided after the events and also, to outline follow up actions to mitigate future problems.
Recommendations
It is recommended that committee:
(i) notes the scale of the flooding events, the number of recorded locations and the scale of the follow-up drainage investigations to be carried out and the use of funding from an underspend on Quality of Life funding of £0.325m to instigate the initial list of follow up drainage investigations and complete a programme of offlet cutting and priority gully cleaning this financial year; and
(ii) note that a review of roads drainage maintenance policy and standards including gully cleaning, ditch and offlet clearing to align policy within the available budget.
Resource Implications To carry out all the identified investigations and follow-up works detailed in Appendix 1 to this report will require additional funding to deliver a proactive repair and maintenance regime. A programme of works to carry out flood mitigation measures will also be required and an underspend of former Quality of Life funding from another service area of £0.325m will be used to support this work in the current financial year.
Legal & Risk Implications There is a risk that continued reactive mitigation could lead to a higher number of claims made to the Council for remuneration in line with perceived Council liability to protect private property. Carrying out investigation and follow up works will help to mitigate against this risk.
10 APPENDIX 1 Scottish Government funding is available towards flood protection schemes, up to 80% of scheme costs, for projects that meet strict payback criteria. Usually, legal flood protection orders are required to deliver such projects and it can take many years from inception to delivery on the ground due to the processes involved.
Local authorities have a duty under the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 to maintain road drainage systems and to keep roads clear of flooding. This duty can be frustrated by the incapacity of other drainage systems that are depended upon, but beyond the Council’s span of control, to cope with additional flood water.
Such weather events are predicted to increase due to climate change and hence, there is the risk that it could happen again. There is an increasing requirement for the Council to respond in terms of climate change adaptation by working in partnership with other agencies and developing a longer-term programme of adaptation priorities to protect communities.
Impact Assessment
An EqIA is not required as this report does not propose a change or revision to existing policies and practices.
Consultation
Consultation has been undertaken with, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Water, Emergency Resilience, Finance and Corporate Services, and Communities Directorates.
1.0 Background
1.1. Fife was subject to severe disruption from extreme rainfall events on 11th/12th August and 25th August 2020 which caused severe flooding to many locations across Fife. There was damage to roads, structures, private properties, council buildings as well as service disruption.
1.2. A detailed list by date and location is provided as Appendix 1 to this report of all sites recorded as being affected on 12th and 25th August 2020. Whilst on this occasion, the most severe disruption was focused on the mid and south areas of Fife this time, there is established knowledge there are also similar areas prone to severe flooding in North Fife.
2.0 Key Issues / Update on Progress
2.1 Fife Council receive regular warnings from both SEPA and the Met Office. A Yellow Warning for Thunderstorms was issued by the Met Office and a Flood Alert was issued by SEPA prior to the 12th and 25th August events. This is not unusual for this time of year. Included within these warnings is a risk matrix stating the likelihood and impact on the area. These warnings are on a large scale and included the whole east coast of Scotland, and not focused on particular areas, towns villages or
11 APPENDIX 1 settlements. Leading up to the event of the 11th August, the SEPA risk matrix stated a Very Low Likelihood of Significant Impacts. Therefore, pre flood checks in line with the Flood Emergency Plan were carried out at all known locations where flooding is a known risk. Due to this level of warning, the duty Flooding Manager from Roads & Transportation Services carried out further investigation utilising the detailed weather forecasting service Fife Council use for assessment of extreme weather events in relation to winter maintenance, and in line with the Flood Emergency Procedures, Flooding Predicted and Flooding Imminent stage.
2.2 On the 11th August, the Flooding Occurring stage of the Flood Emergency Procedure was implemented by the Flooding Manager and close liaison continued between Emergency Resilience, Flooding Manager, and various council services and the media team, throughout the next few days. The Recovery phase of the Flood Emergency Plan was implemented from Monday 17th August 2020.
2.3 The same process was again followed from 25th August 2020 when storm Francis hit, with the Recovery Phase of the Flood Emergency Plan being implemented 27th August 2020.
2.4 It is important to highlight that 11th/12th August rainfall was a major storm event, one of the most severe ever encountered in Fife. This is evidenced by the information provided by SEPA in the table below:
Location 15 min 1 hour 4 hour 12 hour
Kinghorn 13.4 mm 40.1 mm 69.6 mm 82.8 mm (1:20) (1:170) (1:450) (1:350)
Fife Airport 15.8 mm 40 mm 73.8 mm 105.6 mm (1:45) (1:180) (1:700) (1:1,000)
Kirkcaldy 17.8 mm 35.2 mm 44.8 mm 53 mm (1:85) (1:100) (1:60) (1:35)
Lathro 14.4 mm 21.4 mm 31.8 mm 57.4 mm (1:35) (1:10) (1:10) (1:30)
Maximum rainfall intensities for storm on 11-12 August 2020. Return period probability in years bold in brackets.
Current national sustainable drainage design standards do not cater for this level of rainfall as the likelihood is so low. In many of the flood hit locations the traditional drainage design standard, when constructed would be the equivalent of a 1 in 5-year probability storm event for a maximum of 60-minute duration. As has been evidenced Fife experienced rainfall at 1 in 20-year probability in a 15-minute duration in Kinghorn with other areas experiencing even greater rainfall events. The highest recorded rainfall was in Glenrothes area being worst hit with rainfall measured at Glenrothes Airport of 105.6mm overnight, equivalent to a 1 in 1000-yr probability rainfall event. This culminated in Police Scotland declaring a major incident through the Fife Local Resilience Partnership.
12 APPENDIX 1
2.5 All the affected areas that the Flooding Manager was made aware of are detailed in Appendix 1. All areas were attended to over the period by on call personnel working 24 hours per day. A total of 129 personnel, 84 vehicles and approximately 4300 sandbags were deployed dealing with over 239 separate incidents over the period, between 11th/12th and 25th August 2020.
2.6 All flood pods were inspected and filled before, during and after the first event on evening of 11th August, and again on the 24th August 2020. All trash screens, and gullies in trouble spots were cleared before the events, as part of the Predicted and Imminent stages of the Flooding Emergency Procedures and affected watercourses were also cleared of debris, having been washed down during the separate events. Gullies and screens were also inspected and cleared as necessary, detailed within the Recovery stage of the Flood Emergency Procedures.
2.7 Appendix 1 provides a list of all sites affected on the two event dates of 11th/12th and 25th August 2020. This is split into date and location. Also provided is the reactive response at the time of being notified, short term response after the event and longer-term proposals, where considered appropriate. High level costs have been provided where available.
2.8 Fife Council as a Responsible Authority under the Flood Risk Management (FRM) Act have certain duties and responsibilities to fulfil. These are set out within the Local Flood Risk Management Plans (LFRMP), approved at Committee on 21st June 2016 (2016 E.C. 606).
2.9 Some locations affected are covered by these obligations at a strategic level. Cardenden, as an example was highlighted as an area requiring further investigation with regards to the delivery of a fluvial flood study, to examine the need to provide flood mitigation measures. Culross was highlighted as an area for consideration of flood mitigation against coastal flood risk. Further studies are planned for Glenrothes, Leven, Auchtermuchty, Cowdenbeath and East Wemyss all planned for completion before June 2021. In total 16 Flood Studies, 9 Surface Water Management Plans, 2 Integrated Catchment Studies and 2 Natural Flood Studies are currently programmed for completion before the end of the first LFRMP cycle (June 2021) and, where appropriate and viable, works commenced on any design work for the provision of formalised Flood Protection Schemes commencing in the second LFRMP cycle.
2.10 Collaborative working with Scottish Water is delivering the above Integrated Catchment Studies for Dunfermline, Ironmill Bay (one study), and Levenmouth catchments (28 October 2014 Exec Committee 2014. E.C.375 para 489). These are examining the interactive process of both sewer flooding and flooding from overland flow, (i.e. surface water not entering the sewer system, or water running off fields) and how this combined flood water can be managed to mitigate flooding within these catchments. The information from these studies will confirm at a strategic level the Benefit Cost Ratio of carrying out any required engineering measures against the costs of flooding of the network and properties. From there, a financial bid to Scottish Government can be progressed if deemed a positive cost benefit. It is expected both studies will be completed in Autumn 2020 and 2021 respectively.
13 APPENDIX 1 2.11 At a local level, discussions are ongoing with Scottish Water to jointly visit and examine all sites where the primary source of flooding was from the drainage network. It is important to note here that the flooding was severe and as detailed at para 2.4 above the rainfall events were far in exceedance of historical and current drainage design standards. In short, there are capacity issues when these rainfall events occur. The changing design standards, the increasing number of these severe rainfall events and climate change are all adding to the flooding events being seen throughout the UK.
2.12 Under current legislation Fife Council have a duty to maintain the gullies and tails connecting the gullies to the main carrier pipe. Scottish Water in the majority of cases have the duty to carry out maintenance of the carrier pipe which is usually located within the carriageway. These sites are highlighted within Appendix 1 for further investigation and costs allocated for this investigative works are currently in the region of £0.002m per site for initial drainage clearance of any blockages and CCTV survey. The total value of this work is in the region of £0.600m. It is planned that this work will take place in the coming years subject to resources. Any larger scheme mitigation measures will be in addition to this figure and funding solutions will require development to allow this to proceed.
2.13 It has been agreed between Scottish Water and Fife Council officers that regular meetings will be progressed every 6-8 weeks to ensure progression of all investigative works highlighted in Appendix 1. This allows consideration to be given to any mitigation factors that can be progressed on completion of these investigations by both agencies either collaboratively or individually, depending on the outcome of the initial investigations.
2.14 The FRM Act outlines the responsibilities all parties have in dealing with flood events and the protection of an individual’s property and possessions. This can be individuals and/or community groups set up to act as first responder prior to council staff attending.
2.15 Charities like the Scottish Flood Forum, and Council staff where possible, can help to develop low cost solutions for the local community. These groups are set up through residents' associations, Community Councils and individual residents/businesses, and are supported by Charities including the Scottish Flood Forum. A good example of such a Group is the Falkland Flood Action Group and the Freuchie Flood Group, which are both extensions of the Community Councils and therefore covered by relevant insurances and protocols in place for those Community Councils. These Flood Action Groups meet independently of the Community Council meetings and membership includes residents, Community Council and Councillor representation as well as invites to other various interested groups. It is important to note that these are community led, however Council staff will attend when invited.
2.16 Fife Council have also set up a Flood Group Chairs forum which meets on an annual basis This forum, open to the various group Chairs, relevant Councillors and Council Officers meet to discuss progression of the delivery of the FRM Act functions as well as discuss what actions each group have progressed the previous year.
2.17 Roads and Transportation have 9 roads operatives on standby outwith the winter period to deal with out of hours emergencies. During the winter period this is
14 APPENDIX 1 extended to around 27 operatives. There is a wider workforce to be called upon in an emergency and this is the benefit of hosting a direct and local workforce.
2.18 A regular programme of watercourse inspections are carried out to mitigate problems with blockages and excess growth restricting flows. An annual programme of gully cleaning is carried out to maintain the operation of the gully pots. This is to prevent the likes of localised road-side ponding. The volume of runoff water associated with such intense storms is beyond the capacity of most road drainage systems and no level of increased routine gully cleaning would make little difference to the impact of such events. As part of the climate change adaptation agenda there is a need to improve the resilience of such drainage networks but the cost of such joint projects with Scottish Water would likely be prohibitive.
3.0 Proposals
3.1 Watercourse clearance and repair
3.1.1 Fife Council, as a Responsible Authority under the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009, have a duty to inspect, prepare a schedule of that inspection and detail any works required for all bodies of water “from time to time”. Roads and Transportation have prepared a risk-based schedule of inspection, maintenance and repair to meet this obligation. Any works required after inspection are highlighted to the landowner concerned to carry out those works deemed necessary, if not carrying out the works would be detrimental to other actions contained within the Local Flood Risk Management Plan for that area. Clearance of Council controlled watercourses has been estimated at circa £0.150m for this financial year, which is financed from existing budgets. These costs, however, do not include any major repair work required to Council owned watercourses highlighted in the inspections that can occur from time to time.
3.2 Flood Pods
3.2.1 Flood Pods are provided and are maintained at various flood risk areas throughout Fife to allow locals early access to flood sacs and snakes to protect their own properties at times of flood risk. While there is no obligation on Fife Council to provide these pods, it is believed that this is a further proactive solution to help local communities to act fast when the possibility of flooding may occur. These sites are currently being reviewed to take account of the new areas of flooding concern highlighted by the flood events of August 2020. Whilst the inventory will need to remain at a sustainable level, the priorities will be assessed to ensure the flood pods are allocated to the optimum locations.
3.3 Gully Cleaning
3.3.1 There are circa 80,000 road gullies across Fife. The inherited policy standard is for road drainage gullies to be cleaned on an annual basis. To operate within the budget, the service has been using a form of risk-based approach by prioritising gully cleaning in higher priority areas at the expense of less critical and mostly urban locations.
15 APPENDIX 1
3.3.2 In addition to the gulley emptying, the proactive clearing of trash screens on established watercourses identified as flood risk will continue as a priority service funded from within this budget area.
3.4 Ditch Cleaning and Offlet Cutting
3.4.1 There are circa 275km of ditches and offlets across Fife, mostly in the North East and South West areas of Fife. The inherited policy standard is to cut and clear offlets once per year before winter and to clean ditches on a 3-yearly cycle. Like gully cleaning, the service has operated a risk-based approach to demand in this area.
3.4.2 A review of roads drainage maintenance policy and standards including gully cleaning, ditch cleaning and offlet cutting will be taken forward to develop options for a proposed sustainable policy approach.
3.5 Specific Investigation and Mitigation Works
3.5.1 From the list in Appendix 1, site investigation works, some of which can resolve a problem at the same time, are being progressed within available resources. Some of the sites are in collaboration with Scottish Water with whom good partnership working has been evident. As an outline estimate the commitment is conservatively estimated at £0.600m to carry out this initial investigative work alone. As this cannot be met from existing budgets additional funding of £0.125m has been identified for the initial priorities this financial year.
3.5.2 The sites have been assessed based on various factors and given an initial Red/Amber/Green status, that will, subject to further analysis and refinement take account of both risk, complexity and an expected resolution period. It is expected that this assessment of current sites will require resources at varying levels dependant on findings, to conclude investigations, examine any mitigation measures required and deliver works to mitigate future flood events. This does not include any known or future sites outwith the events of August 2020 that could result in a further financial pressure. Climate change adaptation is a genuine and growing demand on council priorities and resources and flood protection will be taken into greater account within the Climate Change Reform Agenda programme.
3.6 Site specific flood mitigation works
3.6.1There are currently 2 sites at Dysart and Dalgety Bay where specific flood mitigation investigation and design works have been progressed in the last few months. Both sites have had flooding events that have affected both Council assets and private individual’s property over several years and funding options are being explored.
4.0 Flood Risk Management
4.1 The out of hours standby staff available to the Council is not enough to deal with the volume of activity that is generated in such events. However, this must be
16 APPENDIX 1 weighed up against the likelihood of such events occurring and the difference the council could have made had more resource been available. In the case of most flooding events additional operatives on site would not have been able to prevent the flooding but would have been able to assist residents in dealing with the incident. Fife is a large geographical area and the locations that have suffered severe flooding over the last few decades are usually different and often over a wide area.
4.2 Sections 2 & 3, and Appendix 1 details how Fife Council provided reactive aid to all areas affected, what further investigative and mitigation works have and will be progressed as well as in some instances, conservatively estimated costs associated with the initial investigations.
4.3 Proactive catchment area mitigation is also a considerable budgetary constraint, with limited opportunity to bid for funding through Scottish Government to finance any proposed measures. This is because all proposed schemes throughout Scotland are ranked and given a priority based upon the Benefit Cost Ratio derived from the Flood Studies and limited to financial limit of 80% grant funding from Scottish Government with the Local Authority providing the additional 20%. Within the first 6-year cycle of the FRM Act to 2021, there is a financial limit of £252m for the whole of Scotland.
4.4 Some sites may not meet this requirement and therefore would not qualify for Scottish Government funding. In relation to Cardenden, a recent flood study of the area, undertaken by consultants on behalf of Fife Council, confirmed that capacity for flow under the B981 Den Burn Bridge is a significant contributor to flood risk. In response, the Updated Fife Bridge Strengthening Programme agreed by the Economy, Tourism, Strategic Planning & Transportation Sub Committee on 1 October 2020 (para 135 of 2020 ETSPT 58 refers) now includes the Den Burn Bridge as a bridge replacement project in 2024/26.
4.5 Flood Studies highlighted under the FRM Act can be completed but not to the timescales set out within the FRM Act due to resource constraints.
4.6 Flood protection projects that meet the cost/benefit requirements are very costly and take many years from inception to delivery and then bring with them quite high recurring revenue costs. The No.1 priority project identified in Fife at present, is at Kinness Burn, St Andrews and it was not actually affected by the recent storms that were more focussed on mid/west Fife. Culross was mostly affected by over ground water from higher land and at Cardenden there was the most unfortunate incident of a builders’ herras fencing being washed in the watercourse and blocking at a bridge. As we work through the outcomes of the flood studies, some projects may arise and will be factored into future planning.
5.0 Conclusions
5.1 The current resource levels for out of hours activity is in normal circumstances enough to cope with emergency situations. However, when there is wide scale flooding across Fife this resource is stretched beyond its limit. This can mean that
17 APPENDIX 1 residents are left to deal with their situation without immediate assistance from the council.
5.2 Climate change is here to stay and the impacts of such storm events in August require equivalent levels of regular and proactive maintenance as opposed to the resources all being required for reactive works. On that basis and as a starting point a review of the roads drainage maintenance policy and standards will be taken forward.
5.3 The list of follow-up investigations and mitigation measures is challenging. These will be carried out on a priority basis using the RAG status shown in Appendix 1 using the £0.325m funding identified. The £0.325m is required for roads drainage to initially tackle the green coloured sites on the list at an estimated cost of £0.125m and complete a programme of offlet and priority gully cleaning this financial year at an estimated cost of £0.200m. The next levels of sites (amber & red) will be progressed in the future as resources become available.
List of Appendices
1. Appendix 1 – Affected sites - August 2020.
Background Papers
The following papers were relied on in the preparation of this report in terms of the Local Government (Scotland) Act, 1973:
1. None
Report Contacts:
Ross Speirs Service Manager (Structural Services) Bankhead Central Bankhead Park, Glenrothes, KY7 6GH Telephone: 03451 55 55 55, Ext No 444390 Email : [email protected]
Derek Crowe Senior Manager, Roads & Transportation Services Bankhead Central Bankhead Park, Glenrothes, KY7 6GH Telephone: 03451 55 55 55 Ext. 450441 Email : [email protected]
18 APPENDIX 1
Appendix 1
19 APPENDIX 1
20 APPENDIX 1
21 APPENDIX 1
22 APPENDIX 1
23 APPENDIX 1
24 APPENDIX 1
25 APPENDIX 1
26 APPENDIX 1
27 APPENDIX 1
28 APPENDIX 1
29 Environment and Protective Services Sub-Committee
3 December 2020 Agenda Item No: 6
Public Bodies (Climate Change) Duties Reporting 2019-20 Report by: Ken Gourlay, Head of Assets, Transportation and Environment Wards Affected: All Purpose
This report details the reporting for Fife Council regarding tackling its climate change duties and responsibilities. It presents Fife Council’s annual submission of Fife Council’s ‘Public Bodies (Climate Change) Duties Report’ 2019-20.
Recommendation(s)
The Sub-Committee is asked to: (1) approve the Draft Public Bodies Duties Report. Submitted as draft to the Scottish Government on 30th November 2020 deadline pending approval to final submission by committee. (2) note the upcoming review of Fife Council’s Carbon Management Plan.
Resource Implications
Other than the officer time involved in collating the information to include in Fife Council’s annual Public Bodies Duties Report return there are no significant resource implications relating to this paper.
Legal & Risk Implications
Any legal and risk implications have been fully considered as part of the reporting process. As of 2016, Public Bodies Duties Reporting is mandatory for all major players under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act, 2009. All Local Authorities are deemed to be Major Players.
Impact Assessment
An EqIA is not required because the report does not propose a change or revision to existing policies and practices.
Consultation
Consultation with Fife Council officers from across the Services has been undertaken to allow Fife Resource Solutions to report an accurate and complete picture of the Council’s performance in cutting carbon emissions and adapting its assets, services and Fife itself, to the physical impacts of climate change.
30 1.0 Background
1.1 Part 4 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, referred to as the ‘Public Bodies Duties’ sets out the Scottish Government’s duties on how the public sector should take action on climate change. The Act was updated in 2014 to require mandatory reporting from the 151 Major Players from November 2016. Mandatory reporting superseded existing voluntary climate change reporting mechanisms. 1.2 Each organisation is required to submit an annual report to the Scottish Government detailing their carbon footprint and the progress they have made in cutting emissions (mitigation) and adapting their area, services and assets to the physical impacts of climate change (adaptation). Reporting provides a solid basis for tracking public sector action on climate change and driving continuous improvement. The reporting platform introduces a standard methodology to improve data consistency. It represents an opportunity to showcase achievements and to assess progress. 1.3 Reports are collated and assessed by the Scottish Government and a Climate Change Public Sector Report is produced annually. Completed Public Bodies Duties Report returns are hosted publicly on the Sustainable Scotland Network (SSN) website and past returns can be viewed at: https://sustainablescotlandnetwork.org/reports/fife-council. 1.4 Each year’s Report has been collated by the Climate Change and Zero Waste team from Fife Resource Solutions using data submissions from officers across the Council. 1.5 The Climate Change (Scotland) Bill has gone through Parliament proposing a significant increase in emission reduction targets, to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. This will require a step change in response from Local Authorities. 1.6 Fife Council agreed to match the proposed targets as part of Fife Council’s Carbon Management Plan in February 2019 by the Environment and Protective Services Committee. 1.7 On September 25th, 2019, MSP’s passed the Climate Change Bill increasing the 2030 interim target to 75% reduction by 2030. 1.8 In September 2019 Fife Council declared a Climate Emergency, stressing the significance, and immediacy of the action required. 1.9 Climate Fife, Fife’s Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan was submitted as Climate Fife and approved by Committee in February 2020. 1.10 This report covers the financial year 2019/20 and therefore was not impacted by the COVID19 outbreak effects that started in March 2020. 1.11 The Scottish Government’s ‘The role of Public Sector Bodies in tackling climate change: A Consultation. 11 Sept-4 Dec 2019’ indicated there would be changes to the Public Bodies Duties Reporting in the future. COVID19 has delayed this. The expectation is that a new approach, taking into account the consultation responses, will be available for 2021. The submission this year is the spreadsheet (link in appedices) to be submitted to [email protected] by 30th November 2020.
31 2.0 Summary of the Report
2.1 Summary of the contents included within Fife Council’s annual Public Bodies Duties Report return and key trends observed this year. 2.2 Section 3 of the Public Bodies Duties Report template requires reporting bodies to provide details of their overall carbon footprint; including detailed breakdowns by fuel type and any renewable energy generation. Reporters are also asked to identify emission reduction projects for the reporting period and forthcoming year. 2.3 Notable trends observed in the reporting year 2019-20 include: • In 2019-20 Fife Council’s total direct carbon footprint was 55,784 tCO2e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent) this is the lowest footprint on record for the Council. This is the sixth year in a row that a reduction has been seen for Fife Council’s footprint since the 2011-12 baseline and is a reduction of 11% on the previous year. • This reduction is mainly due to: o 7% of the total carbon emission reduction is due to planned projects such as Light Fife Green, Building Energy Management adjustments and the Energy Management Revolving Fund. o Emissions from building energy consumption fell by 12% in this report year compared to the previous year. Building energy consumption accounts for 73% of Fife Council’s footprint. o Emissions from infrastructure energy (i.e. street lighting) fell by 41% in 2019-20 continuing the consistent reduction from the beginning of the Light Fife Green project. This is the last year of the project. o Glenrothes Energy Network has saved 2, 508,713 kWh of gas consumption in 19/20 and £63,129. o Reduction in carbon emission factors used to calculate the footprint as more renewable and sustainable mixtures of fuels are available. o There has been a reduction of 13 operational assets that have been closed or demolished in 2019/2020, including Kingdom House, contributing to the reduction of Fife Council’s energy consumption and therefore carbon emissions. Figure1. Fife Council’s emissions in tCO2e by end use.
32 2.4 Fife Council have achieved the 56% reduction needed to meet the 2020 target under the revised Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009. Emissions have been reduced by 60% compared to 1990 levels. 2.5 However, the national carbon emission reduction target has increased to net zero emission by 20451. The Council have agreed to match this2, it will require Fife Council to reduce emissions by a further 55, 784 tCO2e. Interim targets are set at 75% by 2030 and 90% reduction of carbon emission over 1990 levels by 2040. 2.6 The Carbon Management Plan for Fife Council is under review and is one of the Reform Agenda priorities. The path to net zero will be mapped out in this document. 2.7 Section 4 of the Public Bodies Duties Report template addresses climate change adaptation i.e. how bodies are responding to the physical impacts of climate change and building-in greater resilience to the climate changes projected. In this section the Council also must document how it is complying with national adaptation objectives. 2.8 The Fife Council adaptation strategy is being updated as part of Climate Fife, Fife’s Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan. Fife’s risks, vulnerabilities and opportunities in relation to climate change have been assessed. 2.9 The assessment provides recommendations on the arrangements to review current and future climate risk. The Covenant of Mayors requires a report every 2 years, from the submission of the Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan in 2020. This would require reassessment of risks on a 2-yearly basis as a minimum. 2.10 Section 5 of the Public Bodies Duties Report template recognises that procurement is an area where Major Players have significant influence and provides an opportunity to showcase where Fife Council are making use of procurement to mitigate and adapt to climate change. 2.11 Section 7 of the Public Bodies Duties Report template is a voluntary section of the report and asks reporting bodies to detail how they are working with the community to tackle climate change in their wider geographic area. In this section Fife Council have reported many successful projects to cut Fife-wide carbon emissions. 3.0 Conclusions 3.1 The impacts of COVID19 this year will have a significant impact on how Fife Council addresses the climate emergency. As such Fife Council has prioritised the Climate Emergency as one of the 4 reform agendas. 3.2 Fife Council have met its initial target for carbon reduction but recognise the continued challenge to meet the longer-term ambitions for becoming net zero.
List of Appendices Appendix A: Public Bodies Duties Report found here.3 This is the proposed full Fife Council Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Report for 2019-20. Draft submitted to Scottish Government on the 30th November 2020.
Report Contact Hayley Williamson, Environmental Strategy Officer (Climate Change and Zero Waste), Fife Resource Solutions: 03451 555555 Ext. 440278, Email [email protected]
1 The Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill was passed by the Scottish Parliament on 25th September 2019. 2 By declaring a Climate Emergency and in Fife Council’s Carbon Management Plan 3 PDF of full 41-page report available on FISH recycling page via this link. 33 Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee
3 December 2020 Agenda Item No. 7
Fife Council Biodiversity Duty Report 2018 - 2020
Report by: Paul Vaughan, Head of Communities & Neighbourhoods
Wards Affected: All
Purpose Fife Council's Biodiversity Duty Report 2018-2020 fulfils a requirement to report to Scottish Government on the public body's compliance with the biodiversity duty under the Wildlife & Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011, and seeks Environment & Protective Services Committee approval prior to submission.
Recommendation(s) It is recommended that the Sub-Committee approves the Fife Council Biodiversity Duty Report 2018-2020 for submission to Scottish Government.
Resource Implications There are no resource implications associated with the above recommendation.
Many of the projects listed in the report will help sequester carbon emissions.
Legal & Risk Implications It is a legal requirement to make this report publicly available by 1 January 2021, as outlined in the Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011. The report demonstrates how Fife Council has worked to meet its statutory duty to further the conservation of biodiversity under the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004.
Impact Assessment a) An EqIA has not been completed and is not necessary for the following reasons: the report summarises past activities undertaken by Fife Council, rather than making recommendations or proposing changes to policies, services or functions which would impact on residents and staff. Furthermore, the activities outlined in the Biodiversity Duty Report enhance the quality of life and wellbeing of the residents of Fife through the protection of the ecosystem services which are vital to our social and economic wellbeing.
Consultation All Fife Council Services (Communities, Education & Children's Services, Enterprise & Environment, Finance & Corporate Services and Health & Social Care) were invited to contribute to the report and demonstrate how they have helped to further the conservation of biodiversity when carrying out their responsibilities.
34 1.0 Background
1.1 The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 places a statutory duty on all public bodies to further the conservation of biodiversity. Section 1 of the Act states: "It is the duty of every public body and office holder, in exercising any functions, to further the conservation of biodiversity so far as it is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions”. 1.2 Biodiversity is the variety of life on earth. It includes all of the living organisms around us such as plants, animals, fungi, invertebrates, and micro-organisms. It also refers to the genetic material that makes them what they are, and the ecosystems that they form. 1.3 The duty is aimed at connecting people and their environment. It is not just about protecting specific sites or species, and includes how we manage biodiversity in the wider environment, for example in our grounds, through purchase of supplies, or by encouraging staff to engage with biodiversity. 1.4 The Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011 came into force in January 2012 and introduced a requirement for all public bodies to make publicly available a report on their compliance with the biodiversity duty every three years. 1.5 Biodiversity is important because it is essential to sustaining the living networks, or 'ecosystems', that provide us all with health, wealth, food, fuel and the vital services that our lives depend on. Even organisations that don't manage land rely on healthy biodiversity for the goods and services they use. 1.6 'Ecosystem goods' include, for example, clean water, timber, fuel, fibre, cereals and vegetables, whereas 'ecosystem services' include pollution filtration and air quality regulation, erosion control, flood prevention, water purification, and pollination. 1.7 Human activity is causing biodiversity to be lost at a greatly accelerated rate and these losses can be irreversible, impoverish us all and damage the life systems we all rely on. 1.8 The review and reporting process should be used to identify successes and celebrate these. In doing so, Fife Council can raise awareness of biodiversity and the biodiversity duty within the organisation and encourage others to get involved. 1.9 Feedback from the review process can be used to improve planning and results for biodiversity to ensure constant improvement.
2.0 Fife Council Biodiversity Duty Reporting
2.1 In accordance with Scottish Government reporting guidance, Fife Council's report on compliance with the biodiversity duty includes the following sections: • Regulatory role and decision-making structure • Mainstreaming • Actions taken to improve biodiversity conservation • Partnership working and communications • Biodiversity highlights and challenges • Monitoring • Contribution to targets
2.2 Fife Council's 2018 – 2020 report demonstrates that a range of services are involved in protecting and enhancing biodiversity through policies, strategies, plans, initiatives and practical action. The last three years have seen considerable action for 35 biodiversity - across some services in particular - and show what can be achieved through partnership working and leadership. For the coming three years there are opportunities to improve delivery of the biodiversity duty through further and continued mainstreaming, communication, governance, investment and action. Safeguarding and supporting existing works is also important.
3.0 Conclusions
3.1 The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 places a statutory duty on all public bodies to further the conservation of biodiversity through its functions. The Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011 requires all public bodies to make publicly available a report on their compliance with the biodiversity duty every three years. 3.2 Biodiversity is important because it is essential to sustaining the living networks that provide us with health, wealth, food, fuel and the vital services that our lives depend on. 3.3 Fife Council has over the three year reporting period worked across a range of services to further the conservation of biodiversity whilst carrying out its diverse functions. 3.4 This has included protecting and enhancing biodiversity through policies, strategies, plans, initiatives and practical action. Considerable action has shown what can be achieved through partnership working and leadership.
List of Appendices 1. Fife Council Biodiversity Duty Report 2018 - 2020
Background Papers The following papers were relied on in the preparation of this report in terms of the Local Government (Scotland) Act, 1973: • Plan for Fife 2017-2027 • FIFEplan Local Development Plan • Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2013-2018 • Fife Greenspace Strategy 2011-2016 • Climate Fife – Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan 2020-2030 • 2020 Challenge for Scotland's Biodiversity - a strategy for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity in Scotland http://www.gov.scot/Resource/0042/00425276.pdf • Guidance for Biodiversity Duty Reporting http://www.gov.scot/Resource/0050/00508611.pdf • Guidance Note – Biodiversity Duty Explained https://www.nature.scot/guidance-note-biodiversity-duty-explained
Report Contact Johanna Willi Biodiversity Co-ordinator Rothesay House, 2nd Floor South, Glenrothes, KY7 5PQ Telephone: 03451 55 55 55 Ext No 445 363 Email [email protected]
36
Fife Council Biodiversity
Duty Report 2018 - 2020
Published: January 2021 Compiled by: Biodiversity Co-ordinator, Communities & Neighbourhoods
37
Contents
Introduction...... 2
Fife Council Biodiversity Duty Report 2018 – 2020 ...... 3
1. Introductory information ...... 3 1.1 Fife Council’s regulatory role ...... 3 1.2 How biodiversity feeds into the decision-making structure ...... 4 1.3 Promotion of biodiversity initiatives...... 8
2. Mainstreaming ...... 10
3. Actions taken to improve biodiversity conservation ...... 17
4. Partnership working and communications ...... 25 4.1 Partnership working...... 25 4.2 Communication and awareness raising ...... 31 4.3 Training and learning activities...... 33 4.4 Volunteering opportunities...... 34
5. Biodiversity highlights and challenges ...... 35 5.1 Main achievements and what Fife Council is most proud of...... 35 5.2 Main challenges over the coming three years ...... 35
6. Monitoring ...... 37 6.1 Follow-up actions and monitoring ...... 37 6.2 Data and National Biodiversity Network ...... 38
7. Contribution to targets ...... 39
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Introduction
Biodiversity is the variety of life on earth. It includes all of the living organisms around us such as plants, animals, fungi, invertebrates, and micro-organisms. It refers to the variety of habitats and ecosystems and the different ways in which organisms interact with one another and their environment.
Biodiversity is a fundamental part of our everyday lives. Our social, economic and emotional wellbeing depends on it. Biodiversity provides us with food, fuel, clean water, health, wealth and other vital services. It enriches our lives and is part of our history and culture. High quality, biodiverse environments are better able to provide us with important services such as flood alleviation, pollution filtration, water purification, soil formation and pollination of our crops.
Pressures such as habitat loss and fragmentation, pollution, climate change and invasive non-native species mean we are losing biodiversity. As a result, action is required to protect and restore biodiversity locally and nationally.
The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 places a statutory duty on all public bodies in Scotland to further the conservation of biodiversity when carrying out their responsibilities. This biodiversity duty is about connecting people with the environment and managing biodiversity in the wider environment all around us, not just in specific protected sites. It seeks to secure the public sector's commitment and good practice towards the environment so that this can inspire people across society to take active care of nature whilst carrying out their normal duties.
The Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011 further requires public bodies in Scotland to provide a publicly available report, every three years, on the actions which they have taken to meet this biodiversity duty.
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Fife Council Biodiversity Duty Report 2018 – 2020
This report outlines how Fife Council has worked to further the conservation of biodiversity in line with its duty under the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act in the three-year period between 2018 and 2020. It is structured in accordance with reporting guidance available at the time of reporting.
1. Introductory information
1.1 An overview of Fife Council’s regulatory role
As a local authority, Fife Council is responsible for providing a range of public services including education, social care, roads and transport, economic development, housing and planning, environmental protection, waste management, and cultural and leisure services.
Fife Council is structured into four main directorates, each led by an Executive Director joining the Chief Executive to form the Council Executive Team responsible for translating the Council’s policies and plans into action. Arm’s Length External Organisations provide waste and resource management, sport and leisure, golf, countryside and cultural services.
At the time of reporting the council’s committee model is comprised of: Fife Council; Policy & Coordination; Assets & Corporate Services; Community & Housing; Education & Children’s Services; Economy, Tourism, Strategic Planning &Transportation; Environment, Protective Services; Health & Social Care Integration Joint Board; Regulation & Licencing; Fife Planning Review Body; Superannuation Fund and Pensions; Rates Appeal; Community Empowerment Act Review. There are also seven Area Committees, three scrutiny and audit committees, two planning committees and two Common Good sub- committees.
The Fife Partnership Board is the community planning partnership for Fife. It provides strategic leadership to community planning, overseeing partnership activity to support the delivery of its agreed vision and outcomes, as set out in the new Plan for Fife, Fife’s Local Outcome Improvement Plan 2017–2027, previously Fife’s Community Plan and Single Outcome Agreement. The group is comprised of representatives from Fife Council, health and social care, police, fire and rescue, voluntary sector, government, transport, department of work and pensions, skills development and academic institutions.
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The Plan for Fife Local Outcome Improvement Plan 2017-2027 was approved by the Fife Partnership Board in November 2017. The plan has a strong focus on addressing inequalities and four key themes direct the work of the Partnership: opportunities for all; thriving places; inclusive growth and jobs; community-led services. The Plan also details how people and communities are engaged in decisions on the public services which affect them. It also serves as the Fife Council Plan and sits alongside Fife’s Local Development Plan (FIFEplan), which covers spatial and physical planning issues, and the Climate Change Strategy, which sets out how to address climate change and its likely impacts.
The Plan for Fife builds on previous work undertaken to deliver Fife’s Community Plan 2011-2020, which set out long term ambitions for the Kingdom including: reducing inequalities, increasing employment, and tackling climate change. Fife’s Strategic Assessment published in February 2017 provides the evidence base for identifying priorities across Fife and those facing the seven committee areas. These priorities helped to inform the plan and were recently updated to inform future work plans and provide a solid foundation for work at a local and Fife-wide level. The Plan for Fife will continue to recognize environmental considerations, as required by the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005. The Fife Environmental Partnership currently leads on the actions within the Strategic Environmental Assessment.
The Plan for Fife is currently being revised in order to update its three-year actions and to take account of reform and recovery priorities as Fife begins to emerge from the COVID- 19 pandemic. The role of biodiversity and greenspace will feed into this review, as identified by the Fife Strategic Assessment.
1.2 How biodiversity feeds into Fife Council’s decision- making structure, including initiatives, groups, staff, responsibilities and roles linked to biodiversity conservation.
The Fife Environmental Partnership was formed by the Fife Partnership to lead on both enabling delivery and providing scrutiny of climate change and environmental work in Fife. Currently chaired by Fife College and previously by Scottish Natural Heritage (2018-2020), the group is responsible for the strategic direction to protect and enhance Fife’s environment in a sustainable manner to pass on to future generations. Membership includes Fife Council, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, NatureScot, Forestry & Land Scotland, NHS Fife, Fife Coast & Countryside Trust, Scottish Water, University of St Andrews, Fife College, Scotland’s Rural College – Elmwood Campus, Resource Efficient Solutions (Fife Council), Kingdom Housing Association, Ore Valley Housing Association, Central Scotland Green Network, Fife Voluntary Action, Fife Climate Change Action Network, and Greener Kirkcaldy.
The Plan for Fife set a target to deliver a Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan for Fife. A key focus is ’…making the most of Fife’s valuable local landscapes, heritage and
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biodiversity [including Fife’s green and public spaces], and meeting challenges of climate and economic change.’
Climate Fife, Fife’s Sustainable Energy Climate Action Plan, was approved in February 2020. The vision is for Fife to be: • climate friendly, having transformed the economy, infrastructure, land use and energy system to decarbonise how we live; • climate ready, with plans and projects to increase the resilience of Fife communities and the economy to help minimise the impacts from unavoidable climate change; and • climate just, ensuring that all Fifers and the Fife environment can benefit from this transition.
Climate Fife action is guided by eight themes: energy efficiency; low carbon energy; move, store & transform energy; sustainable travel; resource efficiency; carbon sequestration, adaptation; and innovation and coordination.
Fife Resource Solutions co-ordinates the Fife Environmental Partnership and delivers resource management services for the council including waste, recycling, energy and carbon. Fife Resource Solutions were keen advocates for strong environmental outcomes within the Plan for Fife, including a range of biodiversity and climate change indicators and objectives such as:
• implement alternative, low-impact management models for parks and greenspaces;
• Implement a programme of sustainable management for Fife’s woodlands
• expand the coverage of Fife’s woodlands in order to improve biodiversity, reduce flood risks, provide carbon sinks, produce local biomass energy, diversify the local economy and decontaminate old industrial sites.
• implement measures to improve access to green recreation and play space, especially in more deprived communities, in order to maximise health, education and biodiversity benefits, and support initiatives that reduce social isolation.
In all the Council’s committee meetings, councillors vote on issues, agree on plans to help Fife Council meet its aims and objectives, and receive regular reports from all Services to assess how well Fife Council is meeting these. Two strategic committees have specific functions regarding the environment: Communities & Housing and Environment & Protective Services.
On 26 September 2019, Fife Council declared a climate emergency for Fife. This is a public commitment to de-carbonise as rapidly as possible, and Fife set a target for net- zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 at the latest. This recognizes the urgent need to prevent ecosystem and socio-economic collapse.
The Fife Biodiversity Partnership, which steers development and delivery of the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan, includes representation from the public, voluntary and private
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sectors, academic institutions, specialist and community groups, as well as two elected members appointed by Fife Council as spokespersons for biodiversity. Fife Council has acted as Secretariat to the Fife Biodiversity Partnership since the first Local Biodiversity Action Plan was published in 1997, and co-ordinates the work of the Plan.
FIFEplan (Fife’s Local Development Plan) was adopted on 21 September 2017. It sets out the planning policies and proposals for the development and use of land across Fife. The focus now is working with the development sector, communities and other stakeholders to deliver the plan’s proposals for new development and the infrastructure for growth.
The plan includes policies which seek to protect habitats and species and enhance biodiversity. This includes Adopted Local Plan Policy E23 (Protection of Biodiversity), as well as Proposed FIFEplan Policy 13 (Natural Environment and Access), which state that all development should enhance and protect natural heritage. In particular Policy 13 (Natural Environment and Access) states that proposals will only be supported where they protect and enhance natural heritage assets and access. This applies to all biodiversity in the wider environment (for example woodlands, trees and hedgerows) and green networks and greenspaces. The plan also includes green network priorities for many development sites which provide site-specific green network requirements including biodiversity. FIFEplan is supported by approved supplementary planning guidance Making Fife’s Places which provides more detail on green networks, natural heritage assessments and enhancing biodiversity as part of new development. The Planning service utilises data from Fife Nature Record Centre to help inform assessments and decision-making.
Fife Council directly employs the following staff with biodiversity in their remit:
• A Biodiversity Team comprised of 4.5 full-time equivalents to the end of 2019, 2.5 full-time equivalents thereafter, responsible for mainstreaming biodiversity across the Council, co-ordinating implementation of the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan, running Fife Nature Records Centre, undertaking projects to improve local authority land and Fife’s wider environment for biodiversity – often through partnerships, and undertaking educational initiatives in parks and greenspaces. • An Ecological Assistant was appointed in January 2019 for a two year period with the remit to survey and re-assess local Wildlife Sites. • A dedicated natural heritage officer within the Planning service; • A Greenspace Officer who co-ordinates delivery of the Fife Greenspace Strategy; • An Allotments Officer who co-ordinates delivery of the allotments strategy, which includes enhancing community growing spaces for biodiversity; • Park management and development staff who deliver biodiversity enhancement work across Fife through project delivery and park development plans.
Fife Council runs Fife Nature Records Centre, the region’s biological records centre, which collates information on species, natural heritage sites and habitats and delivers an information request service. This resource is available for use in the decision-making process and to ensure impact on biodiversity is considered. During the reporting period,
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128 formal data requests were submitted to Fife Nature Records Centre, and several informal queries also received.
Fife Council contributes core funding and is represented by elected members on the Board of Directors of Fife Coast & Countryside Trust, Fife Golf Trust, Fife Sports & Leisure Trust and Fife Cultural Trust, Arm’s Length External Organisations set up as non-profit making companies with charitable status. • Fife Coast & Countryside Trust undertakes a range of countryside activities and biodiversity functions across the Kingdom on behalf of the local authority and its partners. The organisation’s outputs are agreed in a Service Level Agreement. Fife Coast & Countryside Trust is a key member of the Fife Biodiversity Partnership and plays an important role in delivery of the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan. • Fife Coast & Countryside Trust operates to a Strategy that recognises: o “the importance of natural places and our obligation to preserve them for their own sake…” o “access to nature provides essential benefits” o “the outdoors is for all” o And commits the organisation to providing an “exemplary model of… conservation management” • Fife Coast & Countryside Trust is committed to the values of the Plan for Fife relevant to its objectives as laid out in its articles of association. This includes caring for “high quality natural spaces that benefit biodiversity as well as people’s health and wellbeing”. Specific relevant objectives include: o “…providing, developing and improving the facilities which support access to the countryside, biodiversity and wildlife…” o “…encouraging informed public access to the countryside, biodiversity and wildlife…” o “To advance environmental protection and/or improvement through the conservation, preservation and general improvement of the countryside and the landscape…” • Fife Coast & Countryside Trust contributes at an executive and Board level through membership of the Fife Environment Partnership group as well as sitting on the Leven Programme Executive Board and various working groups including the Nature Rich Leven Working Group. • Fife Golf Trust manages Fife Council’s seven municipal golf courses. The Board agreed on a strategic objective for Fife Golf Trust to achieve the internationally- recognized ‘GEO Certified’ environmental and sustainable accreditation. This is administered by GEO Foundation, an independent non-profit organisation dedicated to providing a credible and practical sustainability system for golf. Certification was achieved in March 2017, and Fife Golf Trust has since strived to continually improve the environmental quality of its courses. Fife Golf Trust is also a delivery partner in the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan through its habitat enhancement and creation initiatives. • Fife Sports and Leisure Trust recognize their duty to support Fife Council in their environmental and biodiversity initiatives.
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1.3 Examples where staff have promoted biodiversity initiatives.
Quarterly Fife Environment Partnership meetings provide opportunities for presentations and workshops that highlight local biodiversity opportunities and action. A ‘Nature’ sub- group was established in 2020 to steer and consider biodiversity opportunities in meeting Fife’s climate change strategy.
In 2018, Fife Resource Solutions worked with Adaptation Scotland on ‘Levenmouth Adapts’ projects, looking at risks, vulnerabilities and solutions to climate change impacts at a local level. This included the role biodiversity can play to minimise impacts.
The Local Development Plan team has ensured that green networks are included as an important consideration for all new developments in the Local Development Plan. Green networks in Fife’s towns and villages were mapped, showing assets and potential for enhancement. A database was compiled of all projects – community and organisation-led - which contribute to enhancing Fife’s green networks, and these were made available online to encourage people to contribute to these.
The Biodiversity Team: • manned stands and displays at a range of venues and events promoting Fife Nature Records Centre, the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan and associated biodiversity projects. • undertakes a suite of events annually including practical conservation days to protect and enhance habitats, bioblitzes, wildlife identification workshops, bat and fungi walks, and awareness raising through attendance at other events. • helped raise awareness internally and externally about the threat, identification, treatment and importance of recording invasive non-native species. • Give regular illustrated talks on the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan and work of Fife Nature Records Centre to community groups and organisations such as Fife Community Climate Action Network, The Ecology Centre and Pitcairn Society.
The Golf Courses Manager of Fife Golf Trust and Biodiversity Co-ordinator were invited to give a joint presentation at the British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association conference in February 2018 to discuss partnership working to achieve mutual environmental objectives through ‘GEO Certified’ accreditation and the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan. The manager continues to promote the importance of habitat creation and enhancement and sustainable management of the seven municipal courses amongst staff and Board members.
Health and Social Care’s care homes replacement programme includes biodiversity as a strong consideration in the design of new care homes, from incorporation of roof tile nest boxes to the provision of high quality outdoor spaces with habitat which offer amenity value to residents as well as attracting a wide variety of wildlife.
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Fife Coast & Countryside Trust’s Chief Executive sits on the Fife Environmental Partnership and Leven Programme Executive Board, as well as representing environmental and biodiversity issues on the Fife Tourism Executive Board. The Trust’s Head of Development sits on multiple working groups, including the Leven Programme to promote the organisation’s values on biodiversity. The Countryside Rangers regularly promote and report on biodiversity initiatives, for instance through the Eden Estuary newsletter and annual report and Lomond Hills Regional Park project reports.
The Grounds Maintenance Service is undertaking Fife-wide consultation on naturalising a proportion of greenspaces through a more sustainable grassland management strategy. Consultation was undertaken with elected members, and a public consultation was launched in November 2020. This will give members of the public an opportunity to influence decisions on where in their local greenspace they would like to see more sustainable grassland management. The multiple benefits of this change in management for biodiversity, habitat connectivity, reduced carbon emissions and climate adaptation are promoted through the initiative, as well as the increased opportunity for people to connect with nature. Information is also made available about how homeowners and communities can further enhance biodiversity. The intention is to reduce areas of closely-mown amenity grass by around 10%, and for long grass areas to be managed annually in accordance with meadow management best practice in order to maximise biodiversity benefits of the new habitat.
Park managers and development officers promoted and supported initiatives and campaigns including the Keep Scotland Beautiful Green Flag Award (awarded to seven parks in 2018, three in 2019), Beautiful Scotland, Beautiful Fife and Britain in Bloom, all of which encourage biodiversity improvements to parks and greenspaces.
The Greenspace Officer reports regularly to all seven Area Committees on greenspace enhancement projects which benefit biodiversity.
The Allotments Officer continues to promote at a regional and national level the importance of community growing spaces for biodiversity and how allotments can be enhanced for wildlife.
The Safer Communities team run the ‘Meet Up, Clean Up’ campaign which brings the council, communities, local groups and businesses together in an effort to eliminate litter in Fife’s streets, parks and countryside. The initiative supports community clean-ups by providing all the equipment needed for a successful litter pick as well as an uplift service.
The Street Cleaning Service will develop a better interface with all Voluntary Groups engaged in litter control with a view to ensuring that the maximum community benefits are achieved.
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2. Mainstreaming
Fife Council has taken numerous steps to incorporate biodiversity into areas of policy, strategies and initiatives.
The Plan for Fife has through its ‘Thriving Places’ priority theme committed to improving the Kingdom’s environment with an appreciation of the multiple benefits. Thriving places are “...where people can live long, happy and fulfilling lives; and places that people want to live and invest in....making the most of Fife’s valuable local landscapes, heritage and biodiversity”.
The Fife Tourism Strategy 2014-2024 recognizes the importance of environmental sustainability and advocates working jointly with Fife Coast & Countryside Trust, Scottish Natural Heritage, RSPB and others, to protect Fife’s outdoor assets through careful promotion and appropriate maintenance.
Fife Council acts as Secretariat to and is a key partner in the Fife Biodiversity Partnership. The council has produced a Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan since 1997, to set out nature conservation priorities and projects identified by the Fife Biodiversity Partnership who steer development and lead on delivery. The Partnership is awaiting publication of the new national biodiversity strategy, delayed to 2022, in order to review the current 2013- 2018 edition and ensure it aligns with national priorities. In the meantime, the current edition continues to be a live, working document.
The Fife Greenspace Strategy 2011-2016 aims to increase access to quality, life enhancing greenspace. One of the objectives is to increase the amount of Fife Council land managed for biodiversity.
The Climate Fife – Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan, is Fife Council’s Climate Change Strategy. It highlights the role of biodiversity in tackling climate change, particularly in adaptation and sequestration.
The Fife Council Allotments Strategy 2018-2023 integrates biodiversity into community food growing policy, with specific objectives to improve biodiversity and connectivity and to promote benefits of pollinators and wildlife. In order to help achieve this, a proportion of the allotment management budget has been set aside for biodiversity projects since 2015.
Fife Forestry & Woodland Strategy 2013–2018 aims to protect and enhance the environmental quality of Fife’s woodlands and forests, and supporting biodiversity is one of its key priorities. Fife Council is undertaking a woodland expansion project and bringing its woodlands into better management, aiming to provide multiple benefits, one of which is enhancing biodiversity.
Fife Council’s Access Team continue to lead on the delivery of the Fife Access Strategy 2006-2016. “Safeguarding and improving the environment” as one of five themes and objectives, along with health and wellbeing.
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The second edition Fife Shoreline Management Plan was completed in 2011 and sets out Fife Council’s policies for managing 179km of coastline. The Plan aims to deliver the greatest environmental, social and economic benefit, consistent with the Government’s sustainable development principles. It takes into account natural coastal processes and environmental considerations.
Planning Service: • The FIFEplan Local Development Plan ensures that green networks and biodiversity are included as important considerations and an integral part of the design process for all new developments. • Planning webpages on Fife Council’s website provide information to applicants on the policy requirements for natural heritage and biodiversity. Links are provided to guidance and sources of information to help ensure that biodiversity is protected and incorporated into design. • Early preparation work is being undertaken for the review of FIFEplan. The natural environment and biodiversity will be a thread throughout the plan along with climate change and health and wellbeing. The Planning Service will be work together with other council services, key agencies and groups to seek to address the complex issues coming together at this time and produce a flexible and adaptable plan, able to deal with changing circumstances. • The supplementary planning guidance Making Fife’s Places will be reviewed as part of the FIFEplan review process.
Fife Resource Solutions: • has its own environmental policy which states that the organisation “will….seek to minimise the adverse impacts of activities on biodiversity and the built environment” • In 2019, produced the Fife Environmental Assessment Tool (FEAT) for Fife Council. This tool imbeds environmental assessment as part of the policy making process, and includes biodiversity as one aspect of this. • In 2020, produced ‘Climate Fife – Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan’, the local authority’s Climate Change Strategy, under the EU Covenant of Mayors which will be used to guide adaptation and mitigation to climate change in Fife for the next five years and to ensure that the Council plays its part in achieving national climate change targets. The adaptation section recommends how best to integrate biodiversity, community food growing, blue green infrastructure, reforestation, pollinator-friendly planting, and improving habitat connectivity into adaptation planning for Fife. • Work with Property Services and client services, such as the Education Estate, to help mainstream sustainable and green building solutions - such as rainwater recycling, green roofing, passive solar design, building integrated renewables and biomass heating - when designing new council assets so as to reduce their negative impacts on the environment and maximise their potential to enhance the natural environment. • Reviewed the existing council Zero Waste Strategy and produced the Resources Strategy and Action Plan (2018-2028), which sets waste management policy direction for the next decade and seeks to significantly increase recycling rates,
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promote a circular economy and minimise waste sent to landfill. The Strategy was subject to Strategic Environmental Assessment and one of the key assessment objectives was to “ensure the maintenance or (where possible) enhancement of biodiversity, and avoid damage to designated wildlife sites and protected species from waste management activities.”
Fife Environmental Partnership:
• provides input to documents such as the revision of the Plan for Fife and ‘Climate Fife’, and is linking climate change action to the green recovery. • In response to the Committee on Climate Change letter ‘Building a resilient recovery’ to the Scottish government, the Partnership initiated a nature working group to strengthen this theme within the COVID-19 response, such as opportunities for tree planning, carbon sequestration and widening opportunities of green space. • Preceding ‘Climate Fife’, the Climate Change Strategy 2014-2020 had four medium- term outcomes, one of which was to ensure that Fife’s ecosystems are used sustainably and strengthened. It supported delivery of the target to plant 100 ha of new woodland in Fife, originally set out in the Fife Forestry and Woodland Strategy 2013-2018, and management of Fife’s Sites of Special Scientific Interest to improve their condition and contribute to the National Performance Framework target of 80% of sites in favourable condition.
Fife Nature Records Centre services are available to all, and the centre is regularly consulted externally for information on species, natural heritage sites and habitats. This information can be used to inform policies, strategies and initiatives as well as research and work on the ground. A total of 155 formal requests were received in the reporting period (as at 8/10/2020) by organisations or individuals external to Fife Council, including environmental consultants, NatureScot and academic researchers.
Fife Coast & Countryside Trust operation of facilities and Maintenance Teams are all tasked through operating procedures and risk assessments to consider the impact of work on biodiversity and the environment. Liaison within Fife Council to provide support and advice on biodiversity.
Fife Golf Trust has since its ‘GEO Certified’ accreditation continued to mainstream biodiversity in golf course management. A ‘nature’ social media group was set up for greenkeepers working at the seven municipal courses so that wildlife sightings and habitat work can be shared.
The Harbours, Flood and Coast team are undertaking a number of flood studies, all of which at least consider Natural Flood Management options for reduction of flood risk.
Roads & Transportation: • All schools within Fife are encouraged to develop and implement a School Travel Plan which identifies how pupils travel to school, why they travel this way and what can be done to encourage more active travel. This in turn reduces the number of cars being used for smaller journeys and consequent emissions.
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• The Light Fife Green Policy promotes the use of energy efficient street lighting equipment, reducing energy consumption and associated carbon emissions and minimising light pollution. • Fife Council is supporting the change to Low Emission Vehicles by continuing to expand the public network of electric vehicle chargepoints across Fife. The network currently consists of 7 rapid chargers, 6 22kW chargers and 28 7kW chargers. The network usage increases year on year. • Fife Council was the first Local Authority in Scotland to write a travel plan in 1999. The Travel Plan today is an evolving document hosted online for Fife Council staff on our corporate intranet, and for the public on the Fife Direct website. It includes travel to work options, information about the cycle to work scheme, trip-sharing and car sharing, advice on business travel advice and how to get to Fife Council premises using public or active transport methods. Bespoke 'mini travel plans' are available on this website for all of the main Fife Council offices. • Bikeability is the Scottish Cycle Training Scheme for school pupils aimed at P4s to S2s. Level 2 covers the rules of the road and basic skills for riding on road and is by volunteers under the Fife Council Bikeability Co-ordinator. • Fife Wide Bicycle Counts Comparison of Permanent Sites shows that there are 36 permanent sites in Fife (32 in 2016) which are used to give an indication of the number of people cycling in the region. These sites are active all year round. • Development of active travel networks to encourage walking and cycling: in 2019, increased the traffic-free shared use Cycle Network by 1 mile and the off-road network by 2 miles; the total length on road was 402 km/250 miles; total length on road cycle lane 25 km/15 miles; total length traffic free rural route 14 km/9 miles; total length traffic free shared use 316 km/196 miles. • The frequency of winterisation activities is recorded, allowing a year to year comparison of how winter weather has changed and encouraging more efficient use of salt and grit on the road network. • To encourage sustainable travel, the council subsidises commercial passenger transport (bus routes), provides accessible transport for vulnerable residents (Fifebus), contracts bus and taxi transportation for school children, and administers the Concessionary travel bus-pass scheme.
Property Services: • promoted biodiversity opportunities with the project and client team. For example: o on larger Education Service project sites, areas of landscaping are set aside and prepared so that they can be developed for biodiversity as part of the school curriculum and learning experience. o within new care home projects, planting of orchards, hedgerow boundaries, areas of wildflowers and grassland, and incorporation of biodiversity into Sustainable Urban Drainage provision. • worked alongside Economic Development to establish a new business unit as part of the Flemington Road City Deal which included protection of existing habitat during construction to form a wildlife corridor connecting existing tree belts adjacent to the site.
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• The Energy Management team sponsor several carbon saving projects via Property Service’s Revolving Fund, including two biomass systems supporting the district heating scheme in Dunfermline. • Glenrothes Energy Network commenced operation on 1 April 2019. It uses steam from the RWE Markinch Biomass Plant to provide low carbon heat to properties in central Glenrothes. These include sheltered housing, a theatre complex and the council's headquarters. Heat is supplied via an energy centre at the Markinch plant, comprised of pumps, controls and steam heat exchangers. The district heat network is a 6.5 km highly-insulated pipe network with heating substations providing heat and hot water in buildings. The connected properties are now heated entirely from renewable sources.
Education Service: • Mainstreaming and continued awareness raising is delivered through the National STEM Education and Training Strategy for Scotland agenda and EcoSchools initiatives. Fife Council seeks to include the natural environment in education initiatives. • The Natural Connections outdoor learning programme is designed to support and increase the number of schools providing regular opportunities to learn outdoors, and can also be adapted to work with community groups. • The specialist Outdoor Education Team based at Lochore Meadows Country Park provides an extensive programme of outdoor learning and activities for all ages. • Nursery education in Fife continues to focus on outdoor learning, and the well- established Forest and Beach kindergarten programmes are continuing to deliver a high-quality experience for children. The nursery extension completed in 2019 at Capshard Primary School incorporated an ‘outdoor classroom’ as part of its design and there have been continued improvements to outdoor spaces across nurseries in Fife. In addition, the Early Years Team is continuing to identify suitable sites for fully outdoor nurseries. Following on from a review of numbers, Fife Council continues to develop sites at both Pittencrieff Park and Calais Muir Woods in Dunfermline, and these are due to open in August 2021.
Fleet: • joined the ECOStars Fleet Recognition Scheme in 2014 and pledged to improve its vehicles and operational practices to be cleaner and more efficient. Fife Council were awarded a five-star rating in 2017 and have been continually improving by introducing low carbon vehicles to the fleet. Advantages include reduction in air pollution (NO2, PM10), reduction in CO2 emissions, meeting EU and National Local Air Quality Management targets, improved public health, economic efficiency and good communications with members. Membership figures in Fife in February 2020: o Commercial Fleet: 205 members, 8280 vehicles. o Taxi and Private Hire: 67 members, 365 vehicles. • the service runs a green accreditation scheme for taxis which drivers can buy into. • The eFife fleet includes 38 electric vehicles and 19 plug-in hybrids. The charging network in Fife means vehicles are never more than 10 miles from a charge point. • The Fife Council fleet from 1 April 2019 to March 31st 2020: o Diesel reduction of 165,943 litres in comparison to previous year 2018/19 o Gas Oil reduction of 85,152 litres in comparison to previous year 2018/19
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o Petrol increase of 18,853 litres in comparison to previous year 2018/19 o Total reduction in emissions 623.7 (tCO2e)
Procurement recognises its responsibility to carry out its activities in an economically, environmental and socially responsible manner and is keen to minimise environmental impact of its procurement activities.
• Fife Council’s Procurement Strategy includes a commitment to purchase goods, materials and services that minimise or reduce the impacts of its activities on the local and global environment, including whole life costing, energy efficiency, supply chain management and sustainably-sourced products. • Procurement works with other services to develop contract terms and procurement award criteria. • The Scottish Government’s ‘Procurement Journey’ is utilised as best practice guidance. Mainstreaming these principles will contribute to compliance. • The service is considering extending membership of its Sustainability Working Group beyond Corporate Procurement to Property, Building Services, Transportation, Economic Development and others. • Launch in Corporate Procurement of the new online Sustainability Tools. • All transport contracts require membership of the ECO Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme. • The Sustainability Test must be completed as part of the Procurement Strategy Report process to ensure issues including the following have been taken into consideration: o Biodiversity enhancement o Scarce or unsustainably procured materials o Biosecurity protection o Impact on Scotland’s protected areas • Tender templates state that: “the Tenderer must take all reasonable steps to provide products and services that are designed with the climate emergency, safety, and sustainability in mind and minimise the environmental impacts that arise from their manufacture, delivery, use and disposal. • Fife Council considers and supports within its procurement activity, as examples,:
o the use of whole life cost where appropriate; o the use of Sustainable Procurement Duty Tools that aid the prioritisation of sustainability to achieve maximum benefits and prioritise and focus on those categories of spend that offer the greatest potential sustainable outcomes; o The environmental impact of construction projects, including specifying high Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) ratings for sustainable design and construction; o Encourage recycling and reuse of materials through waste management plans in order to minimise waste to landfill; o The use environmentally friendly chemicals, o Maximise use of materials from sustainable sources; and
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• The procurement function has established a workstream to support Sustainable Procurement activity with scope and actions to formalise and embed the above throughout the Council.
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3. Actions taken to improve biodiversity conservation
Many of the practical conservation projects listed below either contribute to objectives within or are specifically listed in the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2013-2018, and have been delivered through a range of partnerships. Projects have been listed under the lead service.
Communities & Neighbourhoods:
• The current Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2013-2018 contains 200 actions led by 27 partners. The plan aims to protect and enhance biodiversity for its intrinsic value as well as for the health, wellbeing and enjoyment of the people of Fife. The Partnership is awaiting publication of the new national biodiversity strategy, delayed to 2022, in order to review the current edition and ensure it aligns with national priorities. In the meantime, the current edition continues to be a live, working document. • Fife Council has an ambition to create 100ha of woodland on local authority land by 2028. In November 2020, contractors were appointed to create 40ha of new multi- functional woodland at Minto, a former colliery between Cardenden and Lochelly. Local schools will also be engaged through tree planting events. • The Lyne Burn Green Network Project is a partnership between Fife Council, Scottish Environment Protection Agency and NatureScot to enhance a key green corridor through river restoration, greenspace improvements and habitat creation in an area of multiple deprivation with below average quality greenspace in central Dunfermline. A £1.6 million grant was awarded by Water Environment Fund for the river restoration works, and a feasibility and optioneering study was completed. Conditional grant funding of c. £660,000 was also awarded by Green Infrastructure Strategic Intervention for creation of a 'riverside park' across 19 ha of public greenspace including the Rex Park, Lyne Burn Park and Touch housing scheme. This includes an extensive community engagement programme. • In partnership with Scottish Environment Protection Agency and with grant funding from their Water Environment Fund, a feasibility and scoping study was undertaken to investigate restoration opportunities for a 6km length of the heavily-engineered Back Burn, which flows from north Glenrothes to Markinch. A range of ecological restoration options were identified, and are being further developed through a ‘concept and developed design’ study in 2020/2021, which will include landowner and stakeholder consultation, and is funded by Water Environment Fund and Central Scotland Green Network Development Fund. The Back Burn Restoration Project will aim to create a multi-functional blue-green corridor to enhance amenity, greenspace, access and active travel, habitat, and engagement opportunities along the river.
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• Similarly, the River Leven Restoration Project is investigating options to restore the ecology and morphology of a length of river between Windygates and Leven, whilst providing improved amenity, access and active travel, and engagement opportunities. A feasibility and scoping study was completed in March 2020 and concept and developed design study commissioned in November in partnership with Scottish Environment Protection Agency and funding from Water Environment Fund. This project sits within the wider Leven Programme (see Partnerships in section 4.1). • The Wildlife Site project commenced in January 2019 with the appointment of an Ecological Assistant to resurvey and reassess Fife’s 83 Wildlife Sites. These non- statutory designations contribute to nature conservation in Scotland alongside statutory protected areas. Fife’s Wildlife Sites were last surveyed by Scottish Wildlife Trust in the 1990s and early 2000s. It is important to determine how the sites have changed over time and whether they are still locally important areas for biodiversity. The project has involved information gathering, establishing ownership, working with other organisations such as Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland and Scottish Wildlife Trust, advising volunteers, conducting habitat surveys and developing a robust methodology for the reassessment process. Each site is being assessed using specific criteria including rarity and diversity of species, naturalness, extent and rarity of habitats, connectivity to a habitat network and social factors relating to the site. Since the project started, 50 sites have been surveyed (much of the 2020 survey season impacted by COVID-19 restrictions.) • Fife Council is working to bring its Sites of Special Scientific Interest into favourable condition. With volunteers, work has been underway to restore coastal grassland habitat at St Andrews-Craig Hartle, involving biannual bracken and scrub control events with volunteers. After seven years, this has greatly enhanced a 4,500m2 area. Fife Coast & Countryside Trust manages three Sites of Special Scientific Interest on behalf of the local authority. At Dalbeath Marsh, significant improvements were made in meeting all but one of the targets. • Five top-scoring woodlands in Fife Council’s woodland audit were selected to take forward for Woodlands In and Around Towns funding to improve access, amenity, biodiversity and forestry opportunities. Management Plans were created and community consultations held. Woodland management work has been completed at four woods in Valleyfield, Oakley, Kirkcaldy and Ballingry. • At Letham Glen, Leven, a pond restoration event took place through Froglife’s Scottish Dragon Finder Project with engagement of local community groups and volunteers. Tree thinning works took place to reduce shading to the pond, and bird and bat boxes erected within the park. • Created an orchard of 60 heritage fruit tree varieties at the new Glenwood allotment site in Glenrothes, and worked in partnership with Kelty Greening Group and primary school children to create a small orchard at Kelty allotment’s wildlife garden. • Regular events are held with community groups, schools and partner organisations to create, improve and connect habitat at locations across Fife. Examples include: o Pond restoration at Cupar’s Riverside Walk with Fruit And Blossom group, Fife Amphibian & Reptile Group and Fife Golf Trust, who assisted by providing a digger and driver to remove areas of encroaching vegetation.
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o Buckhaven Foreshore through tree planting, wildflower meadow creation and reduced grass cutting, a community aspiration identified through a charette process. o A tree planting event in partnership with Woodland Trust Scotland at Formonthills Community Woodland, including the planting of 240 aspen, a priority species within the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan. o A pond restoration event with volunteers in Riverside Park, Glenrothes, through the Access All Areas event co-ordinated by Fife Coast & Countryside Trust to engaging people with the countryside. o Supporting community-led wildflower meadow creation, for instance 600m2 at the village green in Colinsburgh, 450m2 along Hospital Hill in Dunfermline, 500m2 at Bankie Park in Anstruther, 130m2 with plot holders at an allotment site in Kirkcaldy and 250m2 at an allotment site in Glenrothes.
Communities & Neighbourhoods in partnership with Grounds Maintenance:
• Through the legacy of the Fife’s Buzzing project – delivered from 2013-2016 in partnership with Buglife and with grant funding from Heritage Lottery Fund and Fife Environment Trust – management of newly created wildflower meadows takes place annually to maintain their botanical and habitat value. This has included meadow management events with volunteers and community groups. The project created 13 ha of native wildflower-rich grassland at 23 parks and greenspaces across the Kingdom. • As a land manager, Fife Council joined farmers, estates and golf courses in the RSPB-co-ordinated Corn Bunting Recovery Project and created three wild bird cover crop areas (4,879m2) with school children from three primary schools in parks in the East Neuk of Fife to provide cover and winter food for this threatened farmland bird. The corn bunting was one of Scotland’s fastest declining birds, but in 2016, surveys saw the highest increase in numbers in Fife in any single year since monitoring began, with an 18% increase on participating landholdings. In addition, birds recolonised areas where they hadn’t been seen in years; the first local range expansion since monitoring began. The annual establishment of the ‘bee and bunting’ mixes took place in 2018 and 2019, but could not be undertaken in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. The project was supported by grant funding from North East Fife Local Community Planning and NatureScot.
Grounds Maintenance:
The service has proposed an alternative, sustainable grassland management strategy. It will look to deliver a more integrated approach to management of the local authority’s green assets and provide outcomes that meet Fife Council’s climate change as well as biodiversity duty obligations. This reflects increasing evidence and desire from communities to manage greenspace differently, including the naturalisation of intensively managed areas.
The service has identified around 10% of council grassland sites which could be managed more sustainably as meadow through an annual management regime. This will increase
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the extent, distribution and connectivity of grassland habitat across Fife, increase botanical diversity and provide shelter, food and nesting space for a range of wildlife. The new regime is expected to reduce carbon emissions and use of fossil fuels by 10% in 2020.
Opportunities, supported by grassland and woodland management plans, have been shared with elected members who will in turn consult with communities. A communication strategy was developed and public consultation launched in November 2020, presenting a set of ‘rewilding’ proposals including supporting documentation and further information on ways to enhance biodiversity.
Advice is regularly given to communities who wish to repurpose land for biodiversity and climate change, for instance the Crail Community Partnership who have since adopted a number of greenspaces in the village.
Assets, Transportation & Environment:
• Financially supporting a project trialing the restoration of coastal saltmarsh habitat for a short section of coast on the Tayport frontage, led by University of St Andrews. • The Fleet Service continues to expand its electric and hybrid fleet, charging points, and is a member of the Ecostars Fleet Recognition Scheme (see Section 2). • The Light Fife Green project is continuing to replace all of Fife's street lights with energy efficient bulbs, reducing associated carbon emissions by over 40%. • Continues to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill. Fife currently recycles 54.7% of waste. • Replacing disposable plastics with reusable products in Fife Council buildings. The council’s ‘Cut it Out’ campaign was launched in February 2019. Before the start of the campaign, there were 152,000 plastic cups and 18,000 plastic straws used by the council every year. Fife Council is cutting these further and removing the 1,460,000 items of plastic cutlery used each year, as well as a range of other single-use plastics. • Facilities Management naturalised a large, prominent water feature at the entrance of the Bankhead Central offices by planting 200 native water lily species, allowing native plants to colonise, cutting off mains water supply to prevent enrichment, and introducing straw bales to address algal blooms. Staff have commented on increased wildlife sightings at the pond. • Facilities management are developing an initiative to provide a more sustainable food source for the school meals catering service and low-income families. The Plant2Plate proposal will use open spaces for food growing whilst providing learning opportunities for schoolchildren. The initiative will also support and help join up similar community-led initiatives.
Health & Social Care:
• The development of Lindsay House care home in Lumphinnans which opened in 2018 includes a sensory garden for residents and the adjacent tenants of Cedar House extra care housing as well as day service users. The garden has been developed to include plants and shrubs that will encourage insects, birds and small mammals.
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• The new care home under construction in Methil will follow a Biodiversity Enhancement Plan which includes: o beech hedging to will provide commuting routes for bats, small mammals and birds. o Replacement of seven felled trees with 58 extra heavy standards to provide immediate benefit to wildlife. o an orchard. o a wildflower area at the village green which will provide a rich habitat for insects and encourage birds and small mammals. o Shrub panting to include lavender and Hebe to encourage pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies. o bird tables and feeders will be provided for the amenity and enjoyment of residents. • Partnership working with local colleges included pupils helping to create diverse garden spaces that encourage wildlife. • The care homes replacement programme provides charging points for electric vehicles.
Housing:
• In regular contact with the Biodiversity Team to request advice on or surveys for protected species, most notably bats and birds, as well as habitat management advice. Works to properties in Inverkeithing and Kirkcaldy were programmed to avoid bird nesting times and confirm that no protected species nest on the roofs. • The department has commissioned and installed external wall insulation and loft and cavity wall insulation to just over 500 (2018/2020) council, Registered Social Landlords and private properties to increase their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. • Liaised with Local Office staff and contractors to ensure reinstatement of greenspace and regeneration improvements, most notably in Kirkcaldy after an insulation project involving 200 properties.
Education:
• Primary, secondary and nursery schools in Fife continue to support and improve biodiversity within their outdoor spaces by creating ponds, planting trees and shrubs, composting, erecting bug hotels and creating wildlife gardens. This takes place on a school-by-school basis and is focused around individual school development plans. • Biodiversity is being introduced at an early age through nursery classes and pupils making the most of their local outdoor space.
Fife Resource Solutions manage a number of sites on behalf of Fife Council and where appropriate work with partners to minimise impact on biodiversity. This includes managing the spread of invasive non-native species at a former landfill site and recycling centre in Pittenweem.
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Fife Council has two active land fill sites at Lower Melville Wood, Ladybank, and Lochhead, Dunfermline. These sites contain a range of cells where waste is buried; once a cell is full it is sealed and remediated. When Fife Council closes landfill cells, careful attention is paid to remediating the sites in a way that maximises their biodiversity value. A range of native species have been planted on closed cells and careful monitoring is undertaken to assess any impacts on local water bodies from runoff.
Fife Environmental Partnership secretariat is provided by Fife Council through Fife Resource Solutions, which enables biodiversity to be discussed and promoted with Fife- wide stakeholders from the Partnership.
Roads & Transportation have been working in partnership with Living Streets to deliver the WOW Walk Once a Week project at a number of schools. The year-round walk to school challenge rewards pupils who travel actively to school a set number of days, incentivised by collectable badges designed by pupils across the country. Aside from health and wellbeing benefits, the initiative decrease the number of cars on the roads around the school.
Planning
• The Planning Service Archaeologist worked with Fife Coast & Countryside Trust on the Fife Pilgrim Way, delivering a number of historic graveyard wilding projects. The graveyards were selected by the Archaeologist, and habitat surveys and recommendations made by the Ranger Service and Biodiversity Co-ordinator. • An audit of existing greenspace provision and an assessment of current and future requirements is being undertaken. This will include analysis of quantity, quality and access. The Fife Greenspace Audit 2009 and its findings were used to develop the Fife Greenspace Strategy, which sets out the vision for increasing access to life enhancing greenspace in Fife, and highlights priorities for settlements. GIS support is being provided for the updated audit, the findings of which will be used to inform the next phase of the Local Development Plan process. • The intention is to expand on the green network mapping in the next phase of the Local Development Plan, including provision of additional opportunities to further enhance networks. Settlement priorities identified in the revised Greenspace Audit will also be addressed through this process. • There have been definite benefits to Fife’s Greenspace Strategy, including: the creation of a quantity standard that can be used across Fife; providing evidence in decision-making on planning applications; and the ability for it to be used by communities to guide their understanding of the provision of space in the places they live, work and play.
Property and Bereavement Services:
• Embrace intentions that clients wish to progress withs regard to biodiversity, and where required consult with landscape architects and in-house specialists. • Manage quality greenspaces which provide health and wellbeing benefits for the bereaved.
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• Biodiversity feasibility works undertaken at old churchyards. • Investigating the potential to create a biodiversity corridor with churchyards in association with the Fife Pilgrim Way project.
Fife Coast & Countryside Trust:
• The organisation protects and enhances habitats across Fife through the management of designated sites including four Local Nature Reserves, three of Fife Council’s Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Lochore Meadows Country Park, the Eden Estuary Special Protection Area/Special Area of Conservation, as well as a number of species-rich grasslands and woodlands and the Fife Coastal path. • Fife Pilgrim Way: a new long-distance route was created through inland Fife which included habitat enhancement and connectivity including graveyard habitat. Partners included: Fife Council, Fife Cultural Trust, Fife Tourism Partnership, Forth Pilgrim, Historic Environment Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, and Scottish Pilgrim Routes Forum. The project was funded by Fife Coast and Countryside Trust, Central Scotland Green Network Trust, Fife Council, Fife Environment Trust, Heritage Lottery Fund, LEADER, Scottish Landfill Communities Fund - Third Sector Hebrides, Scottish Natural Heritage, Suez Community Trust and WREN. • Recruited two Conservation Project Officers in September 2020, whose roles will be specifically aligned to biodiversity projects across Fife, including Lyne Burn Green Network. This has boosted the Trust’s capacity to meet biodiversity objectives. • Have for the last five years delivered a programme of giant hogweed control along 10km of the upper reaches of the River Eden to remove this invasive non-native species, prevent spread of the plant downstream and help stabilise banks and allow colonisation by native species. Fife Council has secured grant funding to enable the programme to take place each year. • Manage grassland at West Sands, St Andrews, to improve botanical diversity. • At the Castle Course in St Andrews, created a 50m x 6m butterfly bank, sown with a wildflower mix including the food plants of Lepidoptera and other insects which have undergone a dramatic decline due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Planted 500m of native mixed hedge to create habitat and improve connectivity. • Installed an accessible telescope at the Guardbridge hide. This allows a wide range of users to appreciate the wildlife on the Eden Estuary reserve, which has the potential to encourage behavioural change and actions to improve biodiversity. • In partnership with a dedicated group of volunteers, working to remove marine litter, especially plastics, from the Eden Estuary Reserve. Fifteen clean-up were undertaken and 20% of litter was recycled. • Undertake management of species-rich grassland at Dalbeath Marsh and Craig Hartle Sites of Special Scientific Interest, at Birnie and Gaddon and Coul Den Local Nature Reserves, and at Lochore Meadows Country Park. Also manage orchards at two of these sites. Planted new hedgerows at the Country Park and Coul Den. • Programme of Spartina anglica control at Shelly Spit and Balgove Bay marshes to prevent this non-native grass from spreading within the Eden Estuary. • The West Sands Dune Restoration work continues, and since 2010, 1.8km of dune have been restored with biodiversity as well as ecosystem service benefits, most notably protection from coastal flooding and erosion. It is thought to be the largest dune restoration project in Scotland, and is given as a case study within ‘Dynamic
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Coast: Scotland’s Coastal Change Assessment’ and SEPA’s ‘Natural Flood Management Handbook’. Annual events have been held in January with volunteers, where donated Christmas trees are used to fill dune blow-outs and assist with accretion of sand, helping to stabilise the dunes.
Fife Golf Trust manages Fife Council’s seven municipal golf courses, amounting to some 300 ha, with a view to enhancing biodiversity including:
• Undertook woodland management throughout the reporting period. Woodland management plans were developed for all seven courses with a view to improving woodland health, biodiversity and amenity. Thinning operations are funded from timber sale. • Areas of rough on all courses managed annually as meadow with a cut and collect after the flowering period. • Have increased areas of rough on the course, including creation of new wildflower meadow areas at Dunnikier and Scoonie Golf Courses, the former in partnership with Capshard Primary School and Dunnikier Park Development Group. • Upcycled and repurposed AstroTurf from a council sports pitch to build junior tees. • Have been taking on board comments from ‘GEO Certified’ environmental and sustainable accreditation awarded in March 2017, and working towards resubmission.
Fife Sports & Leisure Trust:
• Have banned single use plastics, particularly disposable pool overshoes and cafeteria utensils. • Converted lighting to LED at Waterstone Crook Sports Centre in Newport-on-Tay and a facility in Levenmouth.
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4. Partnership working and communications
4.1 Fife Council’s involvement in partnership working on biodiversity.
Fife Council delivers a significant proportion of its biodiversity projects through partnerships, as described in section 3. In addition to the partnerships already mentioned:
Fife Biodiversity Partnership, comprised of representatives from voluntary and statutory organisations, expert groups, community groups, landowners and businesses, meets twice a year to exchange progress updates, best practice and national and regional developments. The group is an important communication and networking platform for nature conservation in Fife.
Representation on the national Local Biodiversity Action Plan Officer Network to exchange best practice, local, national and international developments on nature conservation, and ensure Local Biodiversity Action Planning is in line with national biodiversity priorities.
Fife Environmental Partnership provides the only Fife-wide forum for discussion and sharing of environmental issues available to senior officers and community partners. The Partnership has helped to ensure that projects are progressed in ways that maximise environmental benefits. It provided a forum to support and guide the development of Climate Fife - Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan 2020-2030, and will now provide support in its delivery.
Fife Nature Records Centre has been a key partner in the Scottish Biodiversity Information Forum review of biological recording infrastructure in Scotland, as a contributor and also member of the Working Group. The review aims to determine the optimum infrastructure and address issues and gaps, such as in data flows and service provision, which inhibit fulfilment of the recommendations tabled in response to Scottish Parliament Petition PE1229 and the overall Forum vision: ‘High quality species and habitat data will be collected and managed through a sustainable, co-ordinated and integrated local and national framework of organisations, partnerships and initiatives. These data will be available to ensure that Scotland’s biodiversity, ecosystems and people benefit’.
Fife Nature Records Centre is a member of:
• Biological Recording in Scotland, which promotes the gathering of wildlife data in order to increase public awareness about biological diversity in Scotland and to ensure that effective actions are taken to conserve this resource. • Association of Local Environmental Records Centres and has made a positive contribution, providing input and perspective on Scottish issues, including use of the
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Association’s online forum to share knowledge and experience and learn from others. • National Biodiversity Network, alongside many UK wildlife conservation organisations, government, country agencies, environmental agencies, other Local Environmental Records Centres and several voluntary groups with biodiversity focus.
Fife Nature Records Centre continued to receive input on its activities from a Steering Group, including representation from Planning, NatureScot and expert biological recorders. The Records Centre also coordinated and attended specific meetings for expert recorders of a variety of plant and animal groups in Fife. This helped ensure the Centre was well-informed, that work was targeted appropriately and that crucial relationships were maintained.
The Biodiversity Co-ordinator and more recently the Natural Heritage Planner represented Fife Council on the Forth Estuary Forum and Tay Estuary Forum, stakeholder groups which promote the wise and sustainable use of the estuaries.
On an ad hoc basis, secondary schools work with the John Muir Trust to deliver the John Muir Awards Scheme.
The Leven Programme:
Fife Council is a partner in ‘The Leven: Growing with the Flow’ Programme. Established in 2018, it aims to undertake landscape-scale environmental improvements within the River Leven catchment whilst maximising social and economic opportunities by working with a wide range of partners and communities.
Partners include Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Scottish Enterprise, NatureScot, Sustrans, Scottish Water, Fife College, Forth Rivers Trust, Green Action Trust, Diageo, Keep Scotland Beautiful, Historic Environment Scotland, Zero Waste Scotland, Fife Coast & Countryside Trust and The Coal Authority.
The River Leven flows approximately 47km from its source at Loch Leven to the Firth of Forth. The catchment area encompasses 422km2 of tributaries, burns, lochs and reservoirs, a national nature reserve, a regional park, several communities and the towns of Kinross, Glenrothes and Leven.
The Programme aims to:
• maximise cultural, economic and social opportunities on and around the river by 2030 • better connect local communities along the river • make environmental improvements, and • promote biodiversity, tourism, heritage and active travel
It will improve the physical and ecological conditions of the river, unlock opportunities on vacant and derelict land, enhance green networks and habitats including wetland and
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woodland, as well as create opportunities to improve people’s health, well-being and economic prospects. A key focus is reconnecting people and place.
The Programme aims to be a potentially world-leading example of how organisations can collaborate to develop improvements that take environmental, social and economic factors into consideration at the beginning of any significant community regeneration initiative.
The Programme contributes to the Council’s delivery of duties under Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004, as well as the Plan for Fife and specifically the Greenspace Strategy, Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan and Fife’s Economic Strategy.
The Programme Board: • input to development of a Sustainable Growth Agreement, signed in July 2019. • Shaped development of a Masterplan to ensure focus on delivery of priorities and maximise collaborative advantages, published in June 2019. • Manage emerging projects, ensuring Programme alignment, securing multi- organisational investment packages and prioritisation of internal and external resources. Public consultation and collaboration have been central to the work undertaken. Fife Resource Solutions:
• Contributing to The Leven Programme, including the ‘Nature Rich Leven’ and’ Net Zero Leven’ theme groups. • Entered into partnership with Greener Kirkcaldy, a community-led charity, and Fife College on the National Lottery funded project ‘Climate Action Fife’. The project includes developing a number of local community engagement approaches on climate change. One of these approaches is building capacity for community tree planting.
Fife Golf Trust:
• Fife & Kinross Bat Group volunteers planted a further 256m hedgerow comprised of 620 native trees at Kinghorn Golf Course, bringing the total length of this new wildlife corridor to c. 550m. At Scoonie Golf Course, the group planted 720 mixed native fruiting and flowering hedge trees to enhance 335m fragmented treeline. • Created a new 6-hole junior course integrating habitat including a small pond, wet meadow, willow copse and tree planting in partnership with Dunnikier Golf Club. • Working in partnership with Sports Turf Research Institute, who undertake measurements of courses and report independently, highlighting good environmental practice and making recommendations on further improvement including sustainable management of the courses.
Roads & Transportation:
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• A partner in The Leven Programme, leading on the Connectivity Project which aims to create an award-winning network of paths and cycle ways from Cameron Bridge to Levenmouth.
Communities & Neighbourhoods:
• Community Manager for Levenmouth leading on public consultation and collaboration of The Leven Programme. • Representation on both the ‘Leven Green Networks’ and ‘Nature Rich Leven’ theme groups of The Leven Programme, looking to connect and enhance habitat including wetland and woodland. • In partnership with Scottish Environment Protection Agency, commissioned a river restoration feasibility study in 2019 and concept and developed design in 2020, with a focus on the River Leven between Windygates to Leven. Both phases were awarded grant funding from Water Environment Fund. A proportion of this funding also supported a programme of community engagement activities led by Forth Rivers Trust, focusing on wildlife in the area including otter spotting guided walks and Fish in the Class. • Inner Forth Futures Wetland Network, a partnership led by RSPB, was awarded £119,415 grant funding from NatureScot Biodiversity Challenge Fund to create and improve wetland habitat at five sites around the Inner Forth. As a partner, Fife Council is enhancing Bluther Wetland near Blairhall through the creation of a new wetland mosaic, hedge planting, control of encroaching willow, and the installation of otter holts and bird and bat boxes. The West Fife Woodlands group and Fife Amphibian & Reptile Group have been invited to take part in the project. • Fife Council is a partner in the St Andrews Green Corridors project led by St Andrews Botanic Garden with University of St Andrews and Buglife. The project, funded by NatureScot Biodiversity Challenge Fund, will restore habitats and manage invasive non-native species along two habitat corridors within the town along Kinness Burn and North Haugh. This will include extensive tree planting, wildflower meadow creation, and development of a landscape-scale Biosecurity Management Plan for St Andrews. The project is including gardens as well as open spaces. In the first phase of the project, packets of native wildflower seeds were delivered to about 500 houses. In the second phase, 30-50 households within the corridors are being invited to plant a tree sapling in their gardens. • Fife Council is establishing an agreement with Rural Skills Scotland, a not-for-profit organisation, to undertake management of its woodland landholding whilst offering training and employability opportunities. Woodlands will be brought into management to improve biodiversity as well as amenity value, and have already been ranked through an audit to help Fife Council prioritise sites for the multiple benefits they can provide. Rural Skills Scotland will also take forward woodland creation. • Supporting Fife & Kinross Bat Group with a novel project to convert a doocot in Letham Glen, Leven, to a ‘bat house’, offering these threatened animals a safe roosting and hibernation space. A night-scented garden will be planted adjacent to the bat house with the involvement of local schools, communities and volunteers, and two guided bat walks will take place in the glen. The project is funded by Fife Environment Trust.
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• Developed a wetland restoration project in partnership with Froglife at Cowdenbeath Wetland and Swans Pond, Lumphinnans. The project aimed to create an extensive wetland mosaic at Cowdenbeath and habitat restoration and interpretation initiatives at Lumphinnans. Two applications for grant funding were unsuccessful and a third is awaiting a decision. In the meantime, Grounds Maintenance have supported the community by restoring a path around the west of Swans Pond, improving access to this locally-valued site. • Creating woodland at North Field within Dunnikier Park, Kirkcaldy, in partnership with Dunnikier Park Development Group and Kirkcaldy High School. Since 2018, 680 trees have been planted across c. 2000m2, and a further 840 trees are due to be planted in November 2020. • Support Kelty Greening Group on a regular basis through the academic year by running outdoor learning activities at Kelty allotment wildlife garden. This includes habitat creation and enhancement, such as planting an edible hedge, native hedgerow, small orchard, management of a wildflower meadow through hay raking and weeding, installation of bee logs, and management of newly planted trees. • Supported Hill of Beath Community Group with the development and creation of a biodiversity area at a playing field, including creation of a wet meadow and the planting of 70m of hedgerow with Hill of Beath Primary School. The Employability Team created a boardwalk through the wet meadow area. • In partnership with Fife & Kinross Bat group, facilitated the planting of a native hedgerow by Kirkton of Largo Primary School pupils on a neighbouring landowner’s field boundary to create a wildlife corridor for bats and other animals.
Property and Bereavement Services:
• Consultees on an eco-cemetery proposal led by Kinghorn Community Land Association. • Supported the Old Kirkton Church and Historic Graveyard Community Conservation and Heritage Promotion Project, led by Burntisland Heritage Trust. The site was made safe and consequently re-opened to the public. ‘Green graveyard’ initiatives were undertaken with participation from volunteers and primary schools, including planting a wildflower fringe round the periphery. An education pack was produced for schools, including information on the natural heritage of site.
Planning • Supporting The Leven Programme through land use and development projects, including the Levenmouth rail link proposal. • Representation on the steering groups for Fife Nature Records Centre and the Wildlife Sites Review project. Fleet • Fife Council’s independent fuel saving trial on two Mercedes-Benz Econic Refuse Collection Vehicles demonstrates the successful partnership working with Mercedes, Allison Transmissions and Fleet Operations. • The combined average fuel consumption improvement over the six month period was 8.85%.
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• As a result of fuel economy improvements, Fife Council decided to retrofit another 11 Refuse Collection Vehicles with FuelSense 2.0 software, in addition to ordering a further 11 vehicles. These 24 vehicles are expected to cut the council’s expenditure on diesel by about £42,000 per year, and its CO2 emissions by almost 124 tonnes. Fife Coast & Countryside Trust: • The Trust is a firm proponent of partnership working and collaborates with local communities, community groups, and various organisations to deliver work on the ground. • In the reporting period, the Fife Coast & Countryside Trust Board included representatives from Keep Scotland Beautiful, Scottish Natural Heritage, Visit Scotland, and Forestry and Land Scotland. • Relationships are actively maintained with other organisations including but not limited to Greener Kirkcaldy, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Friends of the Earth, International Union for the Conservation of Nature, A Rocha and others. • Represent biodiversity issues on a number of groups across Fife including Fife Environmental Partnership, Fife Biodiversity Partnership, Take a Pride in Levenmouth and the Dumbarnie Wildlife Reserve Management Group. • Committing a member of staff to support community engagement activities under the Lyne Burn Green Network project in Dunfermline, working closely with Fife Council, NatureScot and Scottish Environment Protection Agency to deliver objectives. • Membership of the St Andrews Sands Partnership to discuss issues affecting the reserve, beaches and coastline of St Andrews. This group has been instrumental in supporting objectives within the Eden Estuary Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. • Supporting saltmarsh regeneration at the Eden Estuary Site of Special Scientific Interest and Local Nature Reserve in partnership with the University of St Andrews and St Andrews Links Trust. The ‘Saltmarshes on the Fringe’ and the ‘Green Shores’ project - a collaboration between coastal landowners and community organisations – create new habitat for wildlife whilst protecting the shoreline from coastal flooding and erosion. This long-standing stakeholder partnership is addressing habitat loss whilst strengthening the Eden Estuary’s shoreline against rising sea-levels. • Working with staff and management from the new Dumbarnie Links golf course development. With volunteers, removed invasive Rosa rugosa from adjacent sand dunes. • Organising and leading regular sessions with pupils from Levenmouth Academy to remove invasive Rosa Rugosa from coastal grassland between East and West Wemyss. • Assisting with the RSPB-led corn bunting project in the East Neuk, delivering talks to schools and supporting Fife Council with ‘bee and bunting’ sowing events. • Working with members of Markinch Heritage Group and Fife Council, with support from volunteers and maintenance staff, to remove invasive non-native Himalayan balsam from habitat along the Fife Pilgrim Way between Markinch and Kennoway.
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• Assisting Butterfly Conservation Scotland and NatureScot to plant wildflower plugs along the Fife Coastal Path between Elie and Ardross. This project was primarily aimed at increasing the local population of Common Blue butterflies by planting bird’s-foot trefoil, its larval food plant. • Undertook a programme of giant hogweed control to support Fife Resource Solutions with eradication at a former landfill site at Pittenweem. • Working in partnership with Fidra, an environmental charity focusing on plastic pollution, to highlight the problem, involving local schools in activities such as nurdle hunts. • Worked in partnership with Fife Cultural Trust to install new steps and an interpretation plinth including information on biodiversity at St Monans Windmill. Feedback will be obtained on the panel to determine future work along the coast. • Supported Scottish Rural College by helping to deliver modules in Wildlife and Conservation Management at Elmwood campus in the 2019/2020 academic year. Intend to support the coming academic year. • Worked with community groups around Fife to tackle plastic pollution on the Fife coast, providing communities with Litter Pick Tool Kits to enable them to take action in their local area. • Under a new partnership agreement with St Andrews Links Trust, Countryside Rangers at West Sands and the Eden Estuary aim to: manage and improve the visitor experience; protect and maintain the natural environment; provide an educational and volunteer programme; manage and maintain the West Sands Dune Restoration project; and support the Links Trust with their environmental objectives. The agreement has considerable benefits for the Eden Estuary Local Nature Reserve, providing concerted management and helping to implement local and national biodiversity objectives. • In partnership with Fife amphibian and Reptile Group, enhanced habitat and created refugia for reptiles and amphibians and monitored populations at key sites.
4.2 Communication and awareness raising activities about biodiversity conservation
• Regular communications about biodiversity and the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan are made externally through events, illustrated talks, a web presence and media releases. Internally, biodiversity communications are facilitated through cross-service meetings, presentations, workshops and briefing notes. • Regular Fife Environmental Partnership meetings throughout the year facilitate presentations and workshops that highlight local biodiversity opportunities and action. • Biannual Fife Biodiversity Partnership meetings are hosted by a different partner each time, with an opportunity for them to raise awareness about their biodiversity work through a presentation and site visit. This encourages communication and can facilitate partnership working.
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• Fife Nature Records Centre held a range of public workshops in partnership with groups and organisations including British Arachnological Society and British Bryological Society, to raise awareness about species groups, including training in identification and recording as well as developing appreciation for conservation issues. • With the support of local expert biological recorders and schemes and societies, the Biodiversity Team organised a number of public biological recording activities including bioblitzes. The team worked in partnership with and supported others in delivery of a number of events to raise awareness about biodiversity. • The Fife Golf Trust Courses Manager and the Biodiversity Co-ordinator were invited to sit on a sustainability panel at the British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association conference in February 2018 to discuss partnership working and delivery of mutual objectives for ‘GEO Certified’ accreditation and the Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan. • Fife Golf Trust set up a social media group to encourage greenkeepers from all seven courses to share environmental projects and wildlife sightings. The Trust also set up sub-groups within Golf Clubs to better communicate environmental and greenkeeping initiatives, such as recent woodland management, and encourage discussion. • Park and greenspace managers regularly erect signage at biodiversity sites to inform the public that areas are being managed to encourage wildlife, for instance at new wildflower meadows. • Procurement Service through the Sustainable Procurement Working Group are promoting use of the new online Sustainable Procurement Tools.
Fife Coast & Countryside Trust undertakes a suite of awareness raising and educational activities including practical conservation events, guided walks, school sessions, volunteer groups, and production of interpretation and media. The ranger service plays a key role in Fife in engaging the public with nature conservation initiatives.
• The Trust maintains a website with information about the countryside and coastal sites the organisation manages, produces a quarterly newsletter, and has an active social media presence. This includes Facebook posts with accompanying photographs covering a range of projects, wildlife subjects and issues, enabling the Trust to engage with and inform a wide audience. • Production of newsletters for Eden Estuary and Birnie & Gaddon Local Nature Reserves and Lochore Meadows Country Park. These provide information about wildlife, developments and points of interest at the sites. They also encourage people to learn more about biodiversity whilst communicating ways to act responsibly. • Working with Fife Seal Group, Police Scotland and Pittenweem West Braes Project to address the increasing problem of disturbance to both Harbour and Grey seals. Information signs were installed at sites along the Fife Coastal Path. • Leading tide and rockpool sessions at twice yearly Fife Council Early Years Nursery Teacher Foreshore Training days. These are held at Lower Largo and focus on educational visits to the seashore for younger children. Leading rockpool events at Pittenweem in partnership with Pittenweem West Braes Project.
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• Delivered a series of wildlife events at Elie Holiday Park, in partnership with staff and management from the site and input from Butterfly Conservation Scotland. • Leading moth and invertebrate events at various sites in partnership with a range of organisations including Fife Employment Access Trust at Silverburn Park in Leven, and CLEAR Buckhaven & Methil at Buckhaven Community Garden. Additional events were held as part of Fife Council’s Community Education family activities in Methil, Kennoway, Anstruther and St Andrews. • Helping to deliver a series of activities for pupils from Parkhill Primary School as part of their John Muir Trust Award. Part of a team which also included Fife Employment Access Trust, Fife Council Community Education and Butterfly Conservation Scotland. • Monthly sessions with staff and service users from the Robert Gough Adult Day Care Centre. These include a range of conservation tasks including coastal litter picks and invasive plant removal for adults with learning difficulties. • Offering advice and information about careers in conservation at school careers days. • Liaison with landowners in the Lomond Hills Regional Park to encourage enhancement of biodiversity in land management. • The Coastal Volunteer Group run in partnership with St Andrews Links Trust at West Sands meets monthly to carry out tasks and projects including beach clean- ups to engage the public. • Hosting educational visits at Eden Estuary Local Nature Reserve, such as Abertay Environmental Science and Civil Engineering to learn about reserve management and coastal process, and Elmwood College Countryside Management to learn about bird identification and survey techniques. • The West Sands Events Programme was initiated to promote objectives for the site. An Education and Outdoor Learning Programme was also instigated to engage young people through a curriculum-guided programme. Local schools, colleges, universities and community groups have all been engaged. • In the reporting period, 2,101 volunteer days were contributed towards a range of projects, from removal of invasive plant species and tree planting, to dune restoration and beach cleaning. This included regular Fife Coast & Countryside Trust volunteers, community and corporate groups, and members of the public giving of their time and enthusiasm to create positive working partnerships.
4.3 Training and learning activities that were carried out internally or externally relating to biodiversity
• Attendance by Fife Nature Records Centre at annual conferences for Biological Recording in Scotland, Association of Local Environmental Records Centres, and the National Biodiversity Network, learning from peers and contributing to discussion workshops on key issues.
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• Knowledge of specific plant and animal groups has been furthered within Fife Nature Records Centre and a dedicated Business Support role through attendance at workshops arranged in partnership with experts, and training presented externally. • As a legacy of the Fife’s Buzzing project, the Biodiversity Team continues to offer meadow creation and management advice and support internally and externally to encourage adoption of more biodiverse, less intensively-managed grassland. Fife Coast & Countryside Trust held annual grassland identification and management workshops as well as training days at Scotia Seeds. • The Biodiversity Team regularly attends events to raise awareness about and engage people in biological recording and local nature conservation initiatives. Such events include agricultural shows, open days, partner organisation events, conferences and bioblitzes. • The Biodiversity Team offered freshwater quality monitoring training to greenkeepers of Fife Golf Trust and members of the public in September 2019, with a view to raising awareness about biotic indices and making monitoring on the seven municipal courses more sustainable in the long run. Attendance included the Golf Course Manager of Elmwood Golf Course and a representative from Perth & Kinross Council. • All Property Services staff have engaged with ecology training with a focus on bat legislation. • Delivery of Sustainable Procurement Workshops to Procurement staff in various services. The Sustainable Procurement Working Group is reviewing Sustainable Procurement Training opportunities and delivery to date. • Fife Coast & Countryside Trust Head of Operations attended the UK Bathing Waters Conference in Belfast. This three-day event covered industry best practice, coastal recreation and water quality. Knowledge gained enabled delivery of a presentation on the practical challenges of dealing with an oil spill which occurred within the Forth Estuary. • Fife Coast & Countryside Trust Rangers delivered: a butterfly identification workshop for St Andrews Links Trust greenkeeping staff; five hedgelaying courses; and scything training for Tomintoul and Glenlivet Landscape Partnership.
4.4 Opportunities for staff to take part in practical action such as volunteering
Fife Council recognises that it may be in the public interest, and hence aligned with the local authority’s aims, to allow staff to take time off for public duties and voluntary activities.
The local authority’s Discretionary Leave Guidelines makes reference to time off for volunteering. Time off for public duties is with pay however time off for voluntary activities is not remunerated unless it is considered by the manager that the activity is of direct benefit to the Council.
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5. Biodiversity highlights and challenges
5.1 Fife Council’s main achievements for biodiversity and what the organisation is most proud of
Fife Council is pleased to be working on an extensive range of projects and initiatives in partnership with many organisations and communities to improve Fife’s environment for biodiversity. Wherever possible, the council seeks to achieve multiple benefits through these initiatives to maximise opportunities for people as well as wildlife. Engagement of local people is key in order to encourage understanding and enjoyment of biodiversity.
• The Leven Programme: cross-service involvement in this ambitious, catchment- scale environmental and socio-economic regeneration project. • The Lyne Burn Green Network project with Scottish Environment Protection Agency and NatureScot to restore a section of river and create a high quality ‘riverside park’ in central Dunfermline. • A 40ha woodland creation scheme at former Minto colliery, and embarking on a partnership with Rural Skills Scotland to undertake woodland management of key sites with training and employability outcomes. • Taking forward river restoration projects in partnership with Scottish Environment Protection Agency for Back Burn and River Leven, both at concept and developed design phase. • Publication of Climate Fife - Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan 2020- 2030. • The Wildlife Sites re-survey and reassessment project which will ensure up-to-date information is available on Fife’s 83 designations. • The project development which committed and proactive staff are taking forward at a time when capacity and resources are increasingly challenging. • Shortlised for the Most Innovative Fleet Management Strategy Award and the Annual Future Fleet Awards in January 2020.
5.2 What will the main challenges be over the coming three years?
Fife Council has put in place strategies, policies and plans for the coming years to protect and enhance greenspace, improve sustainability, increase the environment’s resilience to climate change, and enhance biodiversity, with an understanding of the multiple benefits that a healthy, high quality environment brings. The local authority will continue to work with partners to implement these objectives in an increasingly challenging time, and will strive to:
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• Consider different ways of protecting and enhancing habitat, instigating and delivering projects and retaining and passing on knowledge in light of fewer resources and staff capacity. • Commit where possible to maintaining biodiversity projects and initiatives and also re-evaluating management of greenspace to ensure the best outcome for biodiversity and people. • Commit to maintaining the quality of existing greenspaces and provision of quality, accessible greenspace within new development. Improving access to quality greenspace is widely recognised as providing socio-economic and environmental benefits for the areas around them. • Continue to raise awareness and understanding – particularly at a decision-making level - about the importance of protecting and enhancing the environment for the multiple benefits it provides, including ecosystem services. This will help to ensure that climate, environmental and greenspace enhancement projects continue to be supported. • Continue to raise awareness and understanding amongst the public to further responsible use of the countryside • Ensure that skills and knowledge are shared to minimise the impact of changes in and loss of staff. Encourage staff to be pro-active and develop biodiversity projects where possible in spite of reduced capacity. • Continue to make the most of accessible grant funding, specifically to deliver landscape-scale conservation • Protect capital and revenue budget associated with non-operational works to properties to ensure biodiversity benefits can be implemented within contracts • Engage staff more widely and continue to mainstream across the council • Keep abreast of potential changes in nature conservation, environmental and agricultural legislation when Britain leaves the European Union, in the hope that new legislation adequately protects Fife’s natural heritage and special places
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6. Monitoring
6.1 Follow-up actions or monitoring undertaken by Fife Council to assess impacts of work
Communities & Neighbourhood Biodiversity Team:
• have for the past three years undertaken annual water quality monitoring on Fife Golf Trust’s seven municipal golf courses. The methodology uses biotic indices to monitor the impact of changes in land management on watercourses and ponds, including significant decreases in fungicide and fertilizer application. • Began an annual grassland monitoring programme at St Andrews – Craig Hartle Site of Special Scientific Interest using Site Condition Monitoring methodology to assess the impact of grassland management which commenced in 2018 further to successful bracken control work
Fife Coast & Countryside Trust:
• Fife Coast & Countryside Trust undertakes monitoring of a selection of sites in order to inform management. This includes the Eden Estuary Special Protection Area, Special Area of Conservation and Site of Special Scientific Interest, where monitoring of waders, wildfowl, seals, saltmarsh, coastal erosion, invasive non- native species, and human impact feed directly into management objectives for the site. Information is compiled and made available through an annual report. Volunteers make a significant contribution to monitoring initiatives, including birds, invertebrates and invasive non-native species. • Undertake bird surveys at Eden Estuary Local Nature Reserve as part of wider ecological monitoring facilitated by other organisations e.g. Wetland Bird Surveys (British Trust for Ornithology), Icelandic Goose Counts (Wildfowl and Wetland Trust), Beached Bird Survey (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds). All records captured and forwarded to Fife Nature Records Centre and British Trust for Ornithology. • A Lochore Meadows Country Park, monitoring includes butterfly, bumblebee and dragonfly transects, Common Bird Census and grassland. Grassland monitoring demonstrated that meadow management has had a positive impact on botanical diversity, with particularly dramatic increases in Greater Butterfly Orchid.At Local Nature Reserves including Coul Den and Birnie & Gaddon, monitoring includes National Vegetation Classification of grassland and Breeding Bird Surveys. • Contribute to monthly Wetland Bird Survey (British Trust for Ornithology) and seal counts along Fife’s coastline, the latter shared with Fife Seal Group.
Fife Golf Trust:
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• A volunteer has undertaken monthly moth monitoring (excluding winter) at Lochore and Auchterderran Golf Courses as indicators of ecosystem health.
Roads & Transportation: Undertake a suit of monitoring around active travel, street lighting and electric vehicle charging point usage. These initiatives will help reduce pollution and improve the quality of Fife’s environment: • Use the Hands Up Scotland Survey to monitor impact of School Travel Plans on pupil travel to school; undertaken annually by every school in Fife. • Walk Once a Week is delivered using an online Travel Tracker which allows analysis of user trends on a monthly, yearly and project basis. • Monthly monitoring of street lighting energy consumption has shown a year on year drop in energy usage and corresponding carbon emissions. Since 2015 there has been a greater than 50% reduction in electricity consumption. • Monitoring of electric vehicle charging network has shown an increase in usage year on year. • Employee Travel Survey undertaken every two years to monitor Fife Council Travel Plan. • Fife Wide Bicycle Counts Comparison at Permanent Sites continues. There was a - 11.94% change in the total number of bicycles counted Fife-wide in 2018, when compared with the total for 2017. The loss of two major monitoring sites and issues with equipment at a further two sites are the main reasons for the reduction. • Monitoring has shown that staff play a crucial role in the delivery and success of projects such as Walk Once a Week. Where staff aren't available to keep the momentum going, a downturn in the success of the project has been observed.
6.2 Submission of data to the National Biodiversity Network
Fife Nature Records Centre, the local biological records centre run by Fife Council with grant funding support from NatureScot, submits data to the National Biodiversity Network Atlas on an annual basis.
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7. Contribution to targets
Use the following table to indicate the biodiversity targets to which your organisation has contributed.
Targets/key steps from Contribution Justification Chapter 1 (Healthy to key step ecosystems) of the "2020 [Yes/No] [Include project title or reference for relevant activity] Challenge for Scotland's Biodiversity"
(1.1) Encourage and Yes Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2013-2018 and the work of the Fife support ecosystem Biodiversity Partnership restoration and management, especially in The Leven Programme: catchment-wide, multi-agency environmental catchments that have regeneration experienced the greatest degradation Lyne Burn, Back Burn and River Leven restoration projects through SEPA Water Environment Fund grant funding
Woodland management at four key sites through Woodland in and Around Town funding
Woodland expansion targets on local authority land - 100ha by 2028
Woodland creation: 40 ha planting scheme at Minto, Cardenden
Fife-wide sustainable grassland management strategy
West Sands Dune Restoration Project
Saltmarsh restoration at Tayport
Wetland and pond creation and restoration projects, including Cowdenbeath and Bluther wetlands
Enhancement of greenspace e.g. Lyne Burn Green Network, St Andrews Green Corridors, Kelty and Hill of Beath community wildlife gardens, pollinator-friendly planting
(1.2) Use assessments of Yes The Leven Programme: catchment-wide, multi-agency environmental ecosystem health at a regeneration catchment level to determine what needs to be River Eden giant hogweed control programme done Back Burn, Lyne Burn and River Leven Restoration Projects
West Sands Dune Restoration – based on landscape-scale surveys and management plan
Woodland audit: ranked 88 council woodlands in order of priority for people and wildlife to help target management
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(1.3) Government and Yes Fife Environmental Partnership – leads on environmental aspects of public bodies, including community plan (public bodies include National Health Service, NatureScot, Scottish NatureScot, Forestry and Land Scotland, Scottish Environment Environment Protection Protection Agency, Fife College, University of St Andrews, Fife Coast Agency and Forestry and & Countryside Trust) Land Scotland, will work together towards a shared Fife Biodiversity Partnership – leads on delivery of Fife Local agenda for action to restore Biodiversity Action Plan (public bodies include NatureScot, Forestry ecosystem health at a and Land Scotland, Police Scotland, Fife Coast & Countryside Trust, catchment-scale across Fife College, University of St Andrews, Elmwood College, Fife Golf Scotland Trust)
The Leven Programme: catchment-wide, multi-agency environmental regeneration
Lyne Burn, Back Burn and Leven river restoration projects in partnership with Scottish Environment Protection Agency
Minto woodland creation scheme funded by Forestry & Land Scotland
Management of Sites of Special Scientific Interest – with NatureScot and Fife Coast & Countryside Trust support
West Sands Dune Restoration – through partnership including NatureScot and the Army
Fife Nature Records Centre is run with financial and steering group support from NatureScot
Education Service has links with Scottish Rural College, Fife College and universities
Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2013–2018 – ecosystem approach (1.4) Establish plans and Yes Climate Fife - Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan 2020-2030 decisions about land use based on an understanding of ecosystems. Take full The Leven Programme: catchment-wide environmental regeneration account of land use impacts on the ecosystems services Back Burn, Lyne Burn and River Leven restoration projects meet that underpin social, requirements under Water Framework Directive economic and environmental health Fife Forestry & Woodland Strategy 2013–2018
Fife Shoreline Management Plan
Fife Greenspace Strategy 2011-2016
Fife Council Allotments Strategy 2018-2023
West Sands Management Plan
Making Fife’s Places supplementary planning guidance – importance and value of green networks integral
Targets/key steps from Contribution Justification Chapter 3 (Biodiversity, to key step health and quality of life) [Yes/No] [Include project title or reference for relevant activity] of the "2020 Challenge
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for Scotland's Biodiversity"
(3.1) Provide opportunities Yes Fife Coast & Countryside Trust Ranger Service activities, events and for everyone to experience volunteering opportunities and enjoy nature regularly, with a particular focus on Fife Nature Records Centre workshops, bioblitzes and identification disadvantaged groups training
Biodiversity Team practical conservation events, guided walks, events and volunteering opportunities
Outdoor Education Team based at Lochore Meadows Country Park, including Natural Connections outdoor learning programme
Early Years outdoor nursery trial and programme development
Bums Off Seats free guided walking initiative
EcoSchools and John Muir Award initiatives through schools
(3.2) Support local Yes Climate Fife - Sustainable Energy Climate Action Plan 2020-2030 authorities and communities to improve local Partner in Climate Action Fife project led by Greener Kirkcaldy, environments and enhance including support of community-led woodland creation biodiversity using green space and green networks, Fife Greenspace Strategy 2011-2016 allowing nature to flourish and so enhancing the quality of life for people who Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2013-2018 live there Making Fife’s Places Supplementary Planning Guidance and green network webpages
Keep Scotland Beautiful, Beautiful Fife, Britain in Bloom initiatives
Above strategies and communities supported by staff including Greenspace Officer, Biodiversity Co-ordinator, Park Development Officers, Urban Park Ranger (until 2019), Community Events Officer (until 2019), Park Operations teams, Planning Officers – work in partnership with communities to enhance greenspaces for people and biodiversity
Fife Coast & Countryside Trust through Countryside Ranger Service and Conservation Project Officers
Fife Golf Trust / Biodiversity team partnership work to enhance Fife Council’s seven municipal golf courses
(3.3) Build on good practice Yes Bums Off Seats free guided walking initiative being developed by the National Health Service Installation of Green Gyms in parks (NHS) and others to help encourage greenspace, Fife Greenspace Strategy / work of Greenspace Officer green exercise and social prescribing initiatives that will improve health and Roads & Transportation - development of cycle networks in wellbeing through Dunfermline, Glenrothes and Kirkcaldy. Fife has one of most connecting people with comprehensive cycling networks in Scotland nature
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(3.4) Increase access to Yes Early Years team developing outdoor nursery provision with trial nature within and close to project underway schools, and support teachers in developing the Primary, secondary and nursery schools continue to improve role of outdoor learning biodiversity within their outdoor spaces by creating ponds, wildlife across the Curriculum for gardens, planting trees, composting, etc. enhance biodiversity on Excellence school grounds
Outdoor Education Team based at Lochore Meadows Country Park, including, Natural Connections outdoor learning programme
Education service makes use of EcoSchools and John Muir Award initiatives
Hedge planting with Kirkton of Largo Primary School in partnership with neighbouring landowner
Community wildlife garden/outdoor classroom at Kelty – regularly support two primary schools with outdoor learning on site
Biodiversity Team offers advice to schools on improving grounds for biodiversity
Plant2Plate initiative being developed to encourage food growing on public space near schools
(3.5) Encourage public Yes Plan for Fife Local Outcome Improvement Plan 2017-2027 ‘Thriving organisations and Places’ (community plan led by Fife Partnership Board) businesses to review their responsibilities and action Fife Environmental Partnership for biodiversity, and recognise that increasing Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2013-2018 along with Fife their positive contribution to Biodiversity Partnership and Biodiversity Team – private landowners nature and landscapes can and businesses engaged and supported help meet their corporate priorities and performance
Targets/key steps from Contribution Justification Chapter 4 (Wildlife, to key step habitats and protected [Yes/No] [Include project title or reference for relevant activity] places) of the "2020 Challenge for Scotland's Biodiversity"
(4.1) Ensure that the Yes Fife Coast & Countryside Trust through their site management also management of protected provide access, recreation, interpretation, community engagement places for nature also and education. Countryside Ranger Service important in providing provides wider public wider public benefits. benefits Fife Council engage the public in designated site management through practical conservation events and also maintain access for public use
(4.3) Integrate protected Yes The Fife Integrated Habitat Network model is available to all staff on areas policy with action for the internal mapping system as well as to the public on Fife Direct. It wider habitats to combat is used to inform project development and also in planning fragmentation and restore recommendations and mitigation key habitats
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Green networks are included as an important consideration for all new developments in the FIFEplan Local Development Plan adopted September 2017
The Making Fife’s Places Supplementary Planning Guidance sets out that biodiversity is a key consideration and integral part of the design process for a new development.
(4.5) Involve many more Yes Fife Coast & Countryside Trust, particularly Countryside Ranger people than at present in Service this work and improve understanding of the poorly Fife Council Biodiversity Team through Fife Local Biodiversity Action known elements of nature Plan and Fife Nature Records Centre via internal and external initiatives
Fife Environmental Partnership
The Leven Programme
Lyne Burn Green Network community engagement programme
Targets/key steps from Contribution Justification Chapter 5 (Land and to key step freshwater management) [Yes/No] [Include project title or reference for relevant activity] of the "2020 Challenge for Scotland's Biodiversity"
(5.1) Promote an ecosystem Yes Fife Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2013-2018 and the work of the Fife approach to land Biodiversity Partnership management that fosters sustainable use of natural Fife Environmental Partnership resources and puts biodiversity at the heart of Green networks included as an important consideration for all new land-use planning and developments in the FIFEplan Local Development Plan decision-making
The Making Fife’s Places Supplementary Planning Guidance - biodiversity is a key consideration and integral part of the design process for a new development.
The Leven Programme: catchment-wide environmental regeneration
Back Burn, Lyne Burn and River Leven restoration projects
Sustainable grassland management strategy
Fife Forestry & Woodland Strategy 2013-2018
West Sands Dune Restoration
Saltmarsh restoration at Tayport through flood/coastal erosion work
(5.2) Ensure that measures No n/a taken forward under the Common Agricultural Policy encourage land managers to develop and retain the
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diversity of wildlife habitats and landscape features
(5.3) Support 'High Nature No n/a Value' farming and forestry
(5.4) Put in place the Yes Service Level Agreement with Fife Coast & Countryside Trust to management necessary to manage suite of protected areas on behalf of Fife Council bring Scotland's protected areas into favourable Fife Council working to bring its Sites of Special Scientific Interest condition and improve the into favourable condition – target in service performance plan ecological status of water bodies Three projects underway to improve ecological status of water bodies:
• Lyne Burn restoration through Rex Park
• Back Burn feasibility study completed; concept & developed design underway
• River Leven feasibility study completed; concept & developed design underway
(5.5) Ensure that Yes The Leven Programme: flood risk being undertaken through Network biodiversity and ecosystem Rail rail link commission, including partnership working through objectives are fully Sustainability Agreement integrated into flood risk management plans, and Shoreline Management Plan restore wetland habitats and woodlands to provide Commissioned flood risk/erosion studies request that Natural Flood sustainable flood Management be taken into consideration management
Saltmarsh planting at Tayport as a result of flood/erosion study
Back Burn feasibility and scoping study to include riparian planting
Bluther Wetland restoration project
Minto woodland creation scheme (40ha)
Fife Forestry & Woodland Strategy 2013-2018 and woodland expansion targets
Climate Fife - Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan 2020-2030
Fife Environmental Partnership
(5.6) Restore and extend Yes Natural habitats are created and connected with multiple objectives natural habitats as a means one of which is climate adaptation and mitigation: of building reserves of carbon and to help mitigate Woodland expansion targets on local authority land – 100ha by 2028 climate change Minto woodland creation scheme (40ha)
Sustainable grassland management strategy, looking to manage 10% of amenity grass as meadow starting in 2020
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Ecological and morphological restoration of rivers at Back Burn, Lyne Burn and River Leven
Pond and wetland creation and restoration with partner organisations and communities, such as Bluther Wetland
Hedgerow creation with partner organisations
(5.7) Provide clear advice to Yes The Biodiversity Team provides advice on invasive non-native species land and water managers on issues and treatment to landowners when requested best practice
Targets/key steps from Contribution Justification Chapter 6 (Marine and to key step coastal) of the "2020 [Yes/No] [Include project title or reference for relevant activity] Challenge for Scotland's Biodiversity"
(6.4) Achieve good Limited potential to influence, but initiatives include: environmental status for Scottish seas Member of Forth Estuary Forum and Tay Estuary Forum
Taking part in Blue Flag Award
Yes Fife Coast & Countryside Trust supporting and organising extensive beach clean-up events including participation in annual Great British Beach Clean
Fife Coast & Countryside Trust working with Fidra to raise awareness and engage children in plastics pollution issue
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Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee
3 December 2020 Agenda Item No. 8
Fife’s Air Quality Strategy 2015-2020 – Progress Update for 2020
Report by: Nigel Kerr, Head of Protective Services
Wards Affected: All
Purpose To allow Committee members to view progress made in 2019 in delivering the aims and objectives of Fife’s Air Quality Strategy 2015-2020.
Recommendation(s) Members are asked to consider and endorse the progress made to date in implementing Fife’s Air Quality Strategy 2015-2020. Members are also asked to approve the production of Fife’s Air Quality Strategy for 2021- 2025 and support an ongoing commitment to improving and maintaining good air quality across Fife.
Resource Implications The Council’s Land & Air Quality Team is responsible for ensuring implementation of Fife’s Air Quality Strategy 2015-2020. Delivery of the aims and objectives is achievable through existing staffing levels and is subject to ongoing provision of Scottish Government air quality grant funding (total Scottish Government air quality funding allocated for 2020/21 is just over £105,000). This funding is currently the subject of a competitive bidding process by local authorities for each financial year.
Legal & Risk Implications The Council is required by the Environment Act 1995 to produce and implement an air quality strategy to work towards achieving air quality objectives for prescribed pollutants.
Impact Assessment An Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) is not necessary as the report does not propose a change to existing policies. The Fairer Scotland Duty, which came into force on 1st April 2018, requires the council to consider how it can reduce inequalities of outcome caused by socioeconomic disadvantage when making strategic decisions. There are no negative impacts identified as part of this review as it will aim to protect and enhance health and wellbeing for all.
Consultation The Scottish Government and SEPA were also consulted and noted the thorough and comprehensive approach by Fife Council in tackling air quality issues.
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1.0 Background
1.1 Poor air quality has been classified as the largest environmental risk to public health in the UK1. Improving air quality can reduce the impact on people’s health and will benefit those with heart, lung or breathing problems.
1.2 Fife Council is required by environmental legislation to periodically review and assess air quality with regard to statutory objectives. Protective Services undertakes extensive automatic and diffusion tube monitoring throughout Fife. Pollution from road vehicle emissions is the key air quality issue in Fife, with Nitrogen Dioxide and Particulate Matter (PM10 & PM2.5) being the pollutants of concern. PM10 and PM2.5 are respirable fractions of particles less than 10 and 2.5 microns in diameter respectively. The below figure gives an indication of their size when compared to the diameter of a human hair and fine beach sand.
Figure 1. Size comparison of PM10 and PM2.5 particles
1.3 Where exceedances of air pollutant objectives are considered likely the local authority must declare an Air Quality Management Area and prepare an Air Quality Action Plan setting out the measures it intends to put in place in order to achieve the objectives. Air Quality Action Plans have been prepared for the Bonnygate, Cupar and Appin Crescent, Dunfermline Air Quality Management Areas as a result of elevated road vehicle pollutants.
1.4 The Scottish Government emphasises the importance of air quality in its policy document Cleaner Air for Scotland (November 2015)2. This document sets out a five-year plan of how to achieve full compliance with EU air quality legislation. It also contains a vision that “Scotland’s air quality will be the best in Europe” and a mission to “protect and enhance health, wellbeing, environment, placemaking and sustainable economic growth through improved air quality across Scotland”.
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1.5 The Air Quality Strategy for Fife 2015–20203 aligns itself with the Cleaner Air for Scotland strategy by raising awareness of air quality issues and promoting our best practice work. Our Strategy is also consistent with the Thriving Places priority theme of the Plan for Fife 2017-20274 where thriving places are “safe, well designed and maintained places that promote wellbeing”.
1.6 No single authority or Council service has all the solutions and a partnership is essential to improve air quality. The Fife Air Quality Steering Group (Fife Council’s Protective Services; Planning; Business & Employability; Assets, Transportation & Environment Services; and Area Services, as well as SEPA, NHS Fife and representatives of local communities) meets regularly to ensure that the objectives of our Strategy and Action Plans are being progressed.
2.0 Issues and Options
2.1 General The Air Quality Annual Progress Report 20205 assesses the data collected in 2019 and discusses the implications for air quality management in Fife.
2.1.1 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
NO2 data is collected from 4 automatic stations in Cupar, Kirkcaldy, Dunfermline and Rosyth and 71 diffusion tubes (55 sites across Fife). During 2019, two monitoring locations were added to the network, one was relocated slightly, and two duplicate sites were removed. In addition, monitoring ceased at 11 sites due to consistently low readings over recent years. All NO2 concentrations measured in 2019 were below the annual mean objective of 40 micrograms per cubic metre (μg m-3).
2.1.2 Particulate Matter (PM10 & PM2.5)
PM10 and PM2.5 data is also collected from the 4 automatic stations. During 2019 -3 all concentrations were below the annual mean objective of 18 μg m for PM10 -3 and 10 μg m for PM2.5.
2.1.3 Carbon Monoxide, Sulphur Dioxide, 1,3-Butadiene and Benzene Data relating to carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, 1,3-butadiene and benzene indicate that the relevant statutory air quality objectives relating to these pollutants were unlikely to have been exceeded during 2019.
At the time of writing, The Mossmorran & Braefoot Bay Independent Air Quality Monitoring Review Group Annual Report 2020 had not yet been published. A summary of the findings will be provided in future updates.
2.2 Air Quality Management Areas
There are currently two Air Quality Management Areas for NO2 and PM10 located within Fife; Bonnygate in Cupar and Appin Crescent in Dunfermline. The Air Quality Action Plans for both Air Quality Management Areas have been successful in reducing NO2 and PM10 levels. During 2019 all concentrations of -3 -3 NO2 and PM10 were below the objective level of 40 μg m and 18 μg m respectively. Given these findings, SEPA and the Scottish Government again recommend that both AQMAs should be revoked.
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Fife Council are submitting the appropriate documentation to SEPA and the Scottish Government to advise that both Air Quality Management Area Orders will be amended. Given SEPA and the Scottish Government’s recommendation, and concentrations consistently recorded below the objective level, the amended order will no longer include a declaration for NO2. However, it should be noted that NO2 monitoring will continue to be undertaken in the area to ensure concentrations remain below the objective level. Prior to giving further consideration to SEPA and the Scottish Government’s recommendation regarding the Particulate Matter declarations, Fife Council intends to gather further information and additional monitoring data. Fife Council is currently awaiting the results of the Scottish Government’s study into the uncertainty surrounding the way different analysers have been reporting PM10 concentrations (study delayed due to COVID-19). In addition, we intend to continue with the deployment of the AQMesh Pods (portable compact monitor) to obtain indicative data from the ‘worst case’ locations (automatic monitors cannot always be placed in the ‘worst case’ locations due to their size and access and power restrictions). Should the findings of the Scottish Government study have no impact upon the results reported by the automatic monitors, and with the proviso that our monitoring shows concentrations of Particulate Matter below the objective levels, Fife Council will look towards the removal of these declarations. This will allow Fife Council to revoke both AQMAs. This will be discussed in the 2021 Air Quality Annual Progress Report. It should be noted that there is an expectation from the Scottish Government that existing action plans will continue to be implemented, with continued funding, after any revocations take place to ensure air quality improvements are maintained.
2.3 National Low Emission Framework
Fife Council completed the National Low Emission Framework screening process for both Air Quality Management Areas. The results of these screening assessments concluded that there will be no need to implement Low Emission Zones in Fife.
2.4 Review of Air Quality Action Plans
The Air Quality Action Plans for both AQMAs are currently being reviewed. These Action Plans outline the measures (be these studies or assessments, physical mitigation, integrated policy or educational measures) to be undertaken to improve the air quality within the AQMAs. Measures include feasibility studies and cost-benefit analysis, improving links with Transport Strategies / Area Transport Plans and Planning Development Frameworks, implementation of Urban Traffic Management and Control systems, realigning of road markings and changes to road layouts as well as participation in ECO Stars and Clean Air Day activities. The revised Action Plans will take account of the amended Air Quality Management Area Orders (removal of NO2 declaration), progress made and outline ongoing / future measures to further improve air quality in the AQMAs.
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2.5 Review of the Air Quality Strategy for Fife Fife Council’s Air Quality Strategy 2015-2020 is currently under review. The updated Strategy will take account of recent years’ monitoring data, the amended Air Quality Management Area Orders and Action Plans, and our progress and intentions for maintaining good air quality across Fife. The 2015-2020 Strategy received a commitment from key Fife Council stakeholders: • Chief Executive, • Enterprise & Environment, • Communities, Finance & Corporate Services (now seperate directorates), and • Education & Children’s Services.
The Strategy was also endorsed by: • The Scottish Government, • SEPA • South East of Scotland Transport Partnership (SEStrans), • Transport Scotland, • Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), • Road Haulage Association (RHA), and • Freight Transport Association (FTA).
Fife Council aims to secure the same commitment and endorsements for the updated Strategy, which will be brought to Committee for approval prior to its publication in early 2021.
2.6 Progress in 2019 and Priorities for 2020 Points of progress include: • Increased membership of Fife ECO Stars scheme (funded by Scottish Government air quality grant. This funding is currently the subject of a competitive bidding process by local authorities for each financial year.). This is a free, voluntary scheme which provides recognition, guidance and advice on operational best practice to fleet operators. To date, there are 237 commercial fleet members (8,892 vehicles) and 138 taxi and private hire operator members (559 vehicles). • Additions to Fife Council’s extensive network for electric vehicle charging. There are now public charge points at 31 locations. • By the end of 2019, Fife Council’s fleet included 36 full electric vehicles and 19 hybrid vehicles. • Fife Council supported Clean Air Day 2019. The Land & Air Quality Team promoted alternative travel methods. • Fife Council’s Protective Services updated its air quality guidance note for developers to take account of latest policy and technical guidance. • Over the past five years the Council Fleet has reduced its diesel consumption by over 405,000 litres, equating to a CO2 reduction of 1,065 tonnes. • The Walk Once a Week (WOW) campaign is now in its 5th year and continues to promote active travel in Fife’s primary schools. Active travel in WOW schools remains above average with 85% of pupils using active travel (walking, park & stride or using a bike or scooter) to get to school compared with the 70% average across all other Fife schools. 87
• Cycling at schools is promoted through the Bikeability scheme. Up to March 2020 1,424 pupils from 44 schools were taking part in Level 1, while 955 pupils from 32 schools were taking part in Level 2. In addition, the Cycle Training Assistant course is now being offered to all schools and being delivered at schools requesting to take part (30 pupils from 5 schools). • Electric vehicle purchased (Scottish Government Grant) to replace a diesel van in the Council fleet used for Meals-on-Wheels. Priorities for 2020 include:
• Continuing to monitor NO2, PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations throughout Fife. • Continuing to implement Action Plan measures for the two AQMAs. • Continued implementation of Fife Council’s travel plan, encouraging walking and cycling infrastructure and initiatives. • Ongoing deployment of AQMesh Pods (portable compact monitor) to further understand pollutant concentrations (Nitrogen Dioxide and Particulate Matter) and trends within the Air Quality Management Areas. Given their compact and portable nature, these monitors can be placed in areas which cannot accommodate the large automatic monitors. • Continuation of Fife ECO Stars fleet recognition scheme (HGVs, Buses & Taxis). • Supporting Clean Air Day 2020. Working with Ricardo to raise awareness of air quality matters via the delivery of interactive online sessions with three primary schools in Fife.
3.0 Conclusions
3.1 Based on the evidence available, it can be confirmed that air quality has improved in Fife’s two Air Quality Management Areas as a result of completed and ongoing Action Plan measures. However, continued monitoring and assessment, along with implementation of associated action plan measures, will seek to achieve further improvements/maintain the air quality at these locations and ensure consistency with the aims and objectives of the Cleaner Air for Scotland strategy. 3.2 SEPA and the Scottish Government’s review of our Annual Progress Report concludes that Fife Council should revoke the two Air Quality Management Areas. As a result, Protective Services is in the process of amending the Air Quality Management Area Orders to remove the declarations for Nitrogen Dioxide. We await the outcome of the Scottish Government’s study and additional AQMesh Pod monitoring before considering the removal of the Particulate Matter declarations, allowing for the revocation of both Air Quality Management Areas. It should be noted that monitoring and implementation of Action Plan measures will continue following revocation of the Air Quality Management Areas to ensure that Scottish Objectives continue to be achieved and public health is protected. 3.3 Protective Services will publish an Annual Progress Report in 2021 detailing the findings of monitoring undertaken in 2020.
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Background Papers The following papers were relied on in the preparation of this report:
1. Defra and Public Health England. Air Quality- A Briefing for Directors of Public Health (March 2017) https://laqm.defra.gov.uk/assets/63091defraairqualityguide9web.pdf
2. Scottish Government. Cleaner Air for Scotland - The Road to a Healthier Future November 2015 https://www.gov.scot/Resource/0048/00488493.pdf
3. Fife’s Air Quality Strategy for 2015 to 2020 (February 2015) http://publications.fifedirect.org.uk/c64_FifeAQS2014-2015V11FINAL1.pdf
4. Fife Council Plan for Fife 2017-2027 (April 2018) https://www.fife.gov.uk/kb/docs/articles/about-your-council2/council-performance/a- new-plan-for-fife
5. Fife Council Air Quality Annual Progress Report 2020 http://fish.fife/fish/detailedsearch/index.cfm?fuseaction=pubview&objectid=CAA2686 3-155D-C00E-F10E0BBAAC1D35CF
Report Contact
Eloise Griffin Technical Officer (Land & Air Quality) Land & Air Quality Team (EPES) Fife House Glenrothes Telephone: 03451 55 55 55 Ext. 440460 Email: [email protected]
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Environment & Protective Services Sub Committe
3 December 2020. Agenda Item No. 9
Enterprise and Environment Directorate Section/Service Performance Reports Report by: Keith Winter, Executive Director, Enterprise and Environment Wards Affected: All
Purpose
To present the performance scorecard for Protective Services, Parks, Streets & Open Spaces and Waste Operations for 2019/20.
Recommendations
Members are asked to: 1. Consider the Protective Services, Parks, Streets & Open Spaces and Waste Operations performance information presented at appendix 1 & 2. 2. Consider if any further review work or scrutiny is required and the scope of that review. 3. Note the arrangements set out in section 1 to fulfil the Council’s obligation to comply with Audit Scotland’s 2018 SPI Direction. 4. Note the information regarding the workforce profile at appendix 3. 5. Note the information regarding workforce data at appendix 4.
Resource Implications
None.
Legal & Risk Implications
None.
Impact Assessment
An EqIA is not required because the report does not propose a change or revision to existing policies and practices.
Consultation
None required
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1.0 Background
1.1 Audit Scotland published the Statutory Performance Direction in December 2018. 2019/20 is the final year to which that direction applies. The Council is required to report a range of information setting out:
i. Its performance in improving local public services, provided by both (i) the council itself and (ii) by the council in conjunction with its partners and communities. ii. Its progress against the desired outcomes agreed with its partners and communities. iii. Its performance in comparison (i) over time and (ii) with other similar bodies including information drawn down from LGBF in particular and from other benchmarking activities. iv. Its assessment of how it is performing against its duty of Best Value, and how it plans to improve against this assessment.
1.2 The first requirement, to report the Council’s performance in improving local public services (including with partners) will be satisfied by the series of reports (of which this is one) that will be presented to the Council covering the whole of the Council’s performance for 2019/20. Where possible, comparative performance is given for the Scottish average, top quartile, and peer group averages.
1.3 The other requirements of the Statutory Performance Direction will be satisfied by a combination of
i. Update reports to the Fife Partnership regarding progress against the Plan for Fife, with reports also going to Policy and Co-ordination Committee.
ii. Public performance reporting, assurance statements and governance arrangements.
iii. Reviewing the external Audit Annual Report for its view on our Best Value performance and any action plans thereafter.
iv. Carry out a Best Value self Assessment using the updated Audit Scotland Guidance in conjunction with the Council’s Corporate Governance Statements.
1.4. Taken together, these reports will cover the whole of the Local Government Benchmarking Framework, plus selected service performance indicators that give a balanced picture of Council performance.
1.4 The appendices to this report are presented in the form of a balanced scorecard covering the areas of Customer, People, Responsiveness and Cost results. This is consistent with the format used for the 2018/19 Public Performance Report and mirrors the approach used for internal management reporting throughout the year.
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2.0 Workforce Profile/data 2.1 It was agreed by CET in December 2019 that to streamline performance reporting, workforce Profiles and Data shall be incorporated into Annual Service Reports to eliminate the need for separate reporting. 2.2 The workforce profiles at appendix 3 indicate that there has been a small reduction of 0.3% and 2.1% in staff resources within Protective Services and Parks Streets and Open Spaces respectively. 2.3 The annual workforce data contained within Appendix 4 highlights the gender balance in these service areas along with hours of work, contract (full time/part time/permanent/temporary), number of voluntary redundancies, age profiles for those employees who are 29 and under and Workforce Youth Investment (WYI) bids and new starts. This information is of importance in understanding equality issues and also to inform the service of age profiles of staff cohorts to identify suitable training and development needs and enable robust succession planning.
3.0 Conclusions 3.1 This report is part of a series covering the whole of the Council’s performance against key indicators, including the Local Government Benchmarking framework. The overall performance of Protective Services, Parks, Streets & Open Spaces and Waste Operations is positive; areas for improvement focus are identified in appendices 1 & 2.
List of Appendices
Appendix 1 – Protective Services Performance Report 2019/20 Appendix 2– Parks, Streets & Open Spaces and Waste Operations Performance Report 2019/20 Appendix 3 – Workforce Profile Appendix 4 – Workforce data
Report Contacts
Anne-Marie Fleming Corporate Development Officer Communities Directorate [email protected]
Robert Norrie Corporate Development Officer Communities Directorate [email protected]
92 Appendix 1
Protective Services
Performance Report 2019/20
This report provides a strategic overview However, we continue to face significant of performance against key indicators. challenges etc We’ve worked hard to maintain and improve performance, and this year has seen a number of important achievements A new Food Standards Scotland Code for Protective Services: of practice was issued in early 2019, followed by an additional interventions Shortlisted for the most improved code in late June 2019. As a result, Environmental Health Service at the indicators relating to broadly APSE Performance Networks Seminar compliant food standards and hygiene Awards 2019. inspections have been removed from this report. Work is underway to Over 99% of building warrant identify suitable replacements. applications responded to within 20 days – an increase from 92% last year. COVID-19 has had a significant impact due to the required re- Building warrants issued within 10 days prioritisation of resources from March of receipt has increased from 74.5 to 2019; this will potentially affect the 82.2%. performance report for 2020/21.
Protective Services Environmental Brexit preparations including analysis Health & Trading Standards Teams of potential impacts from different have played a pivotal role in dealing planning assumptions has been a with the COVID pandemic from the challenge. lockdown in March 2020. We continue to face challenges in recruiting new staff within Environmental Health and Trading Standards.
93 Appendix 1
Customer
Performance Progress Feedback from customer surveys mainly included comments about contacting case officers. A new generic mailbox was set up for all incoming building warrant related enquiries. It is supported by Assistant Building Standards Surveyors and has reduced average response times. An optional telephone appointment system was also introduced for customers who wish to speak to a specific case officer.
Protective Services strives to maintain a high level of compliance when dealing with complaints within timescales however there has been a reduction in performance for stage 1 complaints target in 2019/20.
The performance for stage 2 complaints is slightly improved from the previous year and in line with the Fife Council average.
94 Appendix 1
People
Performance Progress Absenteeism across Planning, Protective Services, Business & Employability Services is below the Council average. The long-term working days lost (LT WDL) often relates to a small number of Staff.
Currently staff absence is only available on Pentana at Service Level but will be broken down further in future reports following the migration to Oracle Cloud.
Overall the absenteeism with the Service is managed and Staff are supported through training on areas such as Mental Health Awareness, utilising Reality Check tools and ensuring where required Staff are provided support through the Council’s Support Services.
95 Appendix 1
Responsiveness
Performance Progress A realignment in April 2019 changed how we allocate time to processing applications, based on risk. Additional support from Assistant Surveyors was used to allow case officers to focus on application responses.
The national target for this measure is 95%. Fife’s performance is now green and above the Scottish average
These were given a higher priority in our Enterprise workflow system and this has improved turnaround times. Additional support from Assistant Surveyors and Leads is being developed to continue improvements towards the national target of 90%.
Previous years’ work to implement the deemed refusal process led to a reduction which has now been reversed. Next steps will include breaking the data down to analyse average times for minor applications and larger applications separately.
Long term average remains steady and this year we are significantly lower than the Scottish average
96 Appendix 1
Cost
Performance Progress These costs do not include the Money and Consumer Advice payments (see LGBF section below). The costs have decreased slightly from last year and we compare well with the average for the family group.
The cost of trading standards per 1000 population has decreased over the last year and sits at £1604 above the Scottish average. These costs are influenced by the inclusion of costs for the Money and Consumer Advice service which Fife Council pays an annual sum. These costs are not included within some LGBT returns for other local authorities.
Whilst it would appear that the costs for Environmental Health have increased in 2018/19, in real terms they have actually reduced. This disparity has been a result of the way the information was collected for this reporting year. Clarification to guidance had been sought and has been provided for the collection of costs from 2019/20 onwards.
97 Appendix 2
Parks, Streets and Open Spaces Domestic Waste Service
Performance Report 2019/20
The main challenges facing both services An organisational restructure has taken in the coming years will be absorbing new place in 2020/21. Including a new build growth against a backdrop of operating model, electronic asset reducing income to the service. management system and Fife wide Service Level Maintenance Agreement The street cleansing function has now this will help address performance issues. been separated from grounds maintenance and returned to the The Domestic Waste Service continues to Domestic Waste Service. This will create perform well despite absorbing significant greater transparency with finance and the new build housing growth. The physical deployment of resources on an area by nature of the job remains a challenge for area basis. the workforce. A new and dedicated Grounds Reducing recyclate values and increasing Maintenance Service will engage more fuel and fleet maintenance costs will need constructively with communities to to be monitored closely going forward. establish local priorities. Sharing an understanding of available resources will enable people to shape their places and make decisions on an informed and empowered basis.
The street cleansing team will move to a more localised model to promote local engagement and a fast response to arising issues.
98 Appendix 2
Customer
Performance Progress Stage 1 performance remains strong; however, Stage 2 has dipped as management reductions have impacted on the review activity. This will be addressed in the new structure moving forward.
Performance remains high with both Stage 1 and 2 complaint responses. The service is acutely aware of the importance of the domestic waste function to the community and try to react quickly when problems arise.
Budget cuts have seen significant staff reductions within PSOS and inevitably there is a drop in activity and corresponding public satisfaction.
99 Appendix 2
Performance Progress Street cleanliness is measured on a sampling basis. The figures remain high for these sampled streets.
Missed collections are the main source of customer complaint. Each year Waste Operations absorbs all new build properties with no additional resources. As the size of routes increases there is less capacity to return for missed bins. Lack of capacity fleet can also cause issues as there is less capacity to handle multiple breakdowns. This can lead to service failure and further complaints.
Satisfaction levels are decreasing, this is reflective of the reduced staffing levels in this area. It is hoped a more focussed approach will generate an upturn in satisfaction.
100 Appendix 2
People
Performance Progress The service has an older age profile and correlating sickness levels. The reduced staffing levels have further pressured the workforce and may potentially be the cause of increased stress related and musculoskeletal absence.
101 Appendix 2
Performance Progress Short term absence has improved significantly, however long-term absence continues to be a pressure on the service. There are genuine musculoskeletal issues caused by the nature of the job and the older age profile of the workforce are more susceptible to physical wear and tear issues.
102 Appendix 2
Responsiveness
Performance Progress Contributing factors to the reduction in recycling rate include stricter guidelines on compost accreditation thereby reducing the percentage of material which can be recycled and increasing the percentage sent to landfill. Moreover, wood waste is now used as biomass for district heating and cannot now be included in the recycling tonnage but is diverted from landfill.
103 Appendix 2
Cost
Performance Progress Costs are reducing in line with available budget.
Costs increased because of rising fuel prices and increased vehicle maintenance.
Disposal costs were relatively stable despite the volatility of recyclate values.
104 Appendix 2
Performance Progress Costs are reducing in line with available budget.
105 Appendix 3
PROTECTIVE SERVICES, PARKS, STREETS & OPEN SPACES AND WASTE OPERATIONS – WORKFORCE PROFILE 2019/20 FINANCIAL YEAR (01 APRIL 2019-MARCH 2010)
No of Employees (FTE) No of Employees (FTE) No of Employees (FTE) No of Employees (FTE) Difference in FTE Service April 2017 April 2018 April 2019 April 2020 2019-2020 Protective Services Management 1 1 1 1 0 Protective Services 108.74 106.99 104.82 104.51 -0.31 ATE Management 1 1 1 1 0 Parks, Streets & Open Spaces 462.08 447.57 455.73 446.21 -9.52
Waste Operations 226.27 226.77 226,77 226.77 0 Total 799.09 783.33 789.32 779.49 -9.83
106 Appendix 4
ANNUAL WORKFORCE DATA
Percentage of Workforce who are female 80.00% 72.40% 72.10%
60.00% 47.50% 47.21%
40.00%
20.00% 2.31% 0.47% 2.71% 0.47% 0.00% 2018/19 2019/20
Protective Services PSOS Waste Operations Fife Council
Percentage of workforce who are full time 120.00% 100.00% 80.00% 60.00% 40.00% 20.00% 0.00% 2018/19 2019/20
Protective Services PSOS Waste Operations Fife Council
Percentage of workforce who are permanent 120.00% 100.00% 80.00% 60.00% 40.00% 20.00% 0.00% 2018/19 2019/20
Protective Services PSOS Waste Operations Fife Council
107 Appendix 4
Number of voluntary redundancies(FTE) 80 73.3
60 44.3 40
20 7 0 0 1 0 0 0 2018/19 2019/20
Protective Services PSOS Waste Operations Fife Council
Percentage of employees aged 24 and under 7.00% 6.00% 5.00% 4.00% 3.00% 2.00% 1.00% 0.00% 2018/19 2019/20
Protective Services PSOS Waste Operations Fife Council
Percentage of employees aged 29 and under 14.00% 12.00% 10.00% 8.00% 6.00% 4.00% 2.00% 0.00% 2018/19 2019/20
Protective Services PSOS Waste Operations Fife Council
108 Appendix 4
Number of Workforce Youth Investment(WYI) bids 57 60
40 25 20 0 3.5 0 0 3.5 0 0 2018/19 2019/20
Protective Services PSOS Waste Operations Fife Council
Number of Workforce Youth Investment (WYI) programme new starts 60 51
40 24 20 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 2018/19 2019/20
Protective Services PSOS Waste Operations Fife Council
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Environment and Protective Services Sub-Committee
3 December 2020 Agenda Item No. 10
Fife Resource Solutions – Performance Report
Report by: Ken Gourlay, Head of ATE
Wards Affected: All
Purpose
The purpose of this report is to summarise the performance of Fife Resource Solutions LLP (FRS) for the financial year 2019/2020.
Recommendations
It is recommended that the Environment and Protective Services Sub-Committee considers the content of the report and agrees it is in line with expected outcomes.
Resource Implications
There are no resource implications associated with this report.
Legal and Risk Implications
There are no legal or risk implications associated with this report.
Impact Assessment
An EqIA has not been completed and is not necessary as the report does not propose a change or revision to existing policies and practices. There are not considered to be any implications under the Fairer Scotland Duty.
Consultation
The Chair of Fife Resource Solutions was consulted in the preparation of this report, along with Finance Services.
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1.0 Background 1.1 The Council’s Arms-Length External Organisation (ALEO) commenced operations on 1 April 2014. It was established to provide services to the Council and to utilise Council assets to expand the provision of services to third parties, with a view to increasing external income. It was envisaged that increasing income in this way would make a positive contribution to the Council’s revenue budget reduction process and thereby help to protect key services provided to Fife’s communities.
1.2 The financial benefits accrued by the ALEO are reflected in reductions in the annual fee paid by the Council for services that it receives from the ALEO.
1.3 The activities that transferred initially to the ALEO were those that were carried out by the Sustainability Unit of the former Asset and Facilities Management Services of Fife Council. In broad terms these activities were Waste Treatment & Disposal, and Climate Change & Zero Waste. Sixty employees of Fife Council were transferred to the new organisation under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (TUPE), and have been employees of FRS since 1 April 2014.
1.4 On 1st October 2015, a further 160 employees were transferred to the ALEO from the Council under TUPE in relation to the following activities: • Waste transfer, including two operational waste transfer stations • Commercial waste collections • Skip hire • Servicing of household waste recycling centres and points
1.5 The rationale for the transfer of activities in October 2015 was the synergies between them and the waste related activities that transferred in 2014 which present significant opportunities for efficiencies and income growth.
1.6 The ALEO employed an average of 211 people directly during 2019/20, with the occasional requirement of staff indirectly via contractors. The vast majority of the direct and indirect employees live in Fife, contributing to the economy of the area.
1.7 Group turnover for 2019/2020 was £35.506m, compared to £33.850m in 2018/19. It is also worth noting that these figures include landfill tax income from 3rd parties, which is then immediately paid back out, which accounts for £7.92m in 2019/20 and £7.18m in 18/19. 2.0 Governance
2.1 The ALEO comprises three organisations; Sustainability Fife Ltd, Fife Resource Solutions LLP and Resource Efficient Solution LLP. The purpose of each organisation is as follows: (1) Sustainability Fife Ltd This is a limited company whose sole function is to be a member of Fife Resource Solutions LLP along with Fife Council, as an LLP requires at least two members. (2) Fife Resource Solutions LLP Fife Resource Solutions (FRS) is a limited liability partnership whose partners are Fife Council (99.9%) and Sustainability Fife Ltd (0.1%). It provides services to the Council and is the employer of everyone working for the ALEO
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(3) Resource Efficient Solutions LLP
Resource Efficient Solutions (RES) is a limited liability partnership whose partners are Fife Council (50%) and Fife Resource Solutions LLP (50%). Its purpose is to utilise the physical and intellectual assets under the control of Fife Resource Solutions LLP on a proper contractual basis to provide services to third parties to earn income.
2.2 The relationship of each organisation is set out diagrammatically below:
2.3 Governance arrangements for the ALEO include the following:
• A Board of Directors, appointed by the Council, which has a duty to promote the success of the ALEO for the benefit of its members as a whole, to exercise independent judgement and avoid conflicts of interest. • Member Agreements, which regulate the conduct and affairs of the ALEO and the relationship between its members. • An Operating Agreement between the ALEO and the Council which does 3 key things; it obliges the ALEO to provide specified services to Fife Council; it obliges Fife Council to pay for those services and it obliges Fife Council to provide certain services and resources to the ALEO. • An annual Business Plan agreed between the Council and the ALEO. • The appointment of independent auditors to review and report on the ALEO’s financial and governance affairs. • Regular meetings between the Chief Operating Officer and the client to discuss performance.
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3.0 Activities and Outputs
3.1 The principal activities and outputs of the ALEO are set out below.
3.2 Resource Recovery:
(1) Anaerobic Digestion of Food and Garden Waste.
The AD Plant has been operational since late 2013, and its operation transferred to FRS on 1 April 2014. It is the first of its kind in the UK and, according to the technology providers, is the second largest of its type in the world. At present, the volume of food and garden waste collected by Fife Council that is processed is circa 33,000 to 39,000 tonnes per annum, subject to weather conditions. This produces over 5m kWh of renewable power. This is sufficient to meet the electrical power demands of 1250 households. The plant also produces compost which is marketed to the agriculture sector.
(2) Green Waste Composting
The business unit processes approximately 12,000 tonnes of garden waste collected via the Recycling Centres. Of this,4,000 tonnes are processed by open windrow composting at Lower Melville Wood and the remaining 8,000 tonnes are utilised as feedstock at the AD Plant, largely during the winter months.
(3) Energy from Waste
During 19/20 we continued to benefit from an opportunity to direct delivery material for commissioning at an Energy from Waste (EfW) facility in Dunbar. During this financial year almost 18,000 tonnes were diverted from landfill to EfW. This enabled the generation of third-party margins as the rates were positive in comparison to landfill rates, while also protecting void space at both landfill sites. This also provided an opportunity for lessons learnt, regarding haulage and down time, as the expectation is that this activity will predominantly replace landfill, with agreements in place for Earls Gate Energy Centre from late 2021 and Westfield Energy Recovery Park from late 2023 early 2024.
(4) Landfill
The business unit operates two landfills for the final disposal of non-recyclable waste. In 2019/20, the sites collectively handled circa 225,000 tonnes, of which approximately 106,000 tonnes were Fife Council waste. This area continues to generate high margins on third party waste to ensure other areas of the basis can continue to function by being partially subsidised by the significant revenue generated in this area.
(5) Waste Transfer
The Resource Recovery unit operates the waste transfer station at Thornton on behalf of Fife Council, providing for the transfer of over 80,000 tonnes of waste and recyclates per year.
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(6) Renewable Power and Heat
The ALEO manages a broad portfolio of renewable power and heat assets, including the following: • Biogas, comprising methane and carbon dioxide is extracted from the landfills operated by the ALEO and produces approximately 15 million kWhrs of renewable electricity per year, sufficient to meet the needs of up to 3,750 households. • At Lochhead, heat recovered from the generation of renewable electricity from landfill gas and AD plant biogas is used to provide hot water to the Dunfermline community heating system. The system provides hot water to over 200 households, 5 public buildings, and one supermarket. It is the only community heat network in the UK that is fuelled by biogas from landfill and organic waste treatment operations. • One x 500kW wind turbine at Lower Melville Wood. • A photovoltaic array on the roof of a building at Lower Melville Wood produces a modest amount of renewable power. • Total renewable power production at the ALEO’s waste management facilities is sufficient to meet the electrical power needs of a town the size of Cupar.
(7) Materials Recovery facility (MRF) – Lochhead
During 19/20, the existing equipment was evaluated to determine what upgrades were required to allow the internalisation of the processing of cans/plastics and paper/card. The expectation is that the internalisation of this process will allow an unbudgeted pressure of £0.400m within Fife Council to be transferred in 20/21 and fully mitigated from 21/22 onwards.
3.3 Climate Change and Zero Waste
(1) Climate Change
The business unit is responsible for the development of climate change mitigation strategies and delivery programmes for Fife Council. This includes the development and implementation of the Council’s Climate Change strategy, co-ordinating the Fife Environmental Partnership and providing statutory reporting requirements under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act for Fife Council. It has developed and delivered projects for Fife Council including: • Production of Fife’ Climate Change Strategy “Climate Fife”. • The Leven Programme – Developing sustainable development within the Leven catchment area. • Park Power: Project to develop a strategic approach to identify the best opportunities to generate renewable energy in parks, and therefore cost savings and new income streams. • H100 – Providing support for the bid development with SGN. • Completion of the Carbon Reduction Commitment scheme. • Supported Local Housing Strategy implementation to maximise domestic energy efficiency and renewable generation • Development of Grey Fleet project to identify opportunities for carbon and financial savings from business travel.
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(2) Zero Waste This business unit provides strategic advice to the Council in relation to the sustainable management of waste and project manages the delivery of improvements to household waste collection services. They produced “Zero Waste Fife – Resources Strategy” in 2018. Projects delivered or in progress include: • ZWS Charter Grant Programme - Improved recycling for households on a non-standard service (bins, tags, stickers, letters), communications (radio ad, tags and stickers), staffing, Recycling Point Repairs/Signage and new glass point, bin sensors licence. (grant funding from Zero Waste Scotland was £108k. • Single Use Plastics: Continue to reduce single use plastics within Fife Council. • Ditch the Disposal (Scoping) – Identifying community group to tackle single use plastics, work with them to replace or remove the materials. This is part one of a larger project. The second part to take place after COVID. Funded by Zero Waste Scotland. (3) Services to Others The Climate Change and Zero Waste Team provides consultancy services to other councils and public bodies. The external income generated in 2019/20 was circa £0.130m.
3.4 Commercial & Waste Transfer Operations (1) Commercial and Industrial Waste Collection This business unit provides waste and recycling collection services to over 3,500 customers. The customer base ranges from small accounts with a value of approximately £1,000 per year to those with an annual sales value exceeding £300,000. In 2019/20 FRS continued to realise the financial benefits resulting from the transformational changes carried out on the Commercial Collection business in the previous year with total overheads reducing by approximately £0.360m from 2018/19, with continued efficiencies in staffing and fleet costs. The new streamlined business now offers a more competitive pricing structure and service proposition which enabled FRS to increase revenue by 7% through new sales growth and a strategic price increase. Through an improved performance, the service has regained several customers lost to competitors previously along while also benefit from an increase in retention of current customers. The Skip Hire service has remained consistent and development of this business unit will be focussed on during 20/21, when the organisation moves towards the internalisation of sorting skip waste, which will significantly reduce overheads and enable FRS to grow market share in this area.
(2) Operation of Recycling Centres The ALEO operates eleven Recycling Centres on behalf of Fife Council. In 2019/20 FRS continued to try and tackle commercial misuse of the sites by utilising the mitigating measures approved by committee in the previous year. Although these measures have enabled the service to reduce the unauthorised use by commercial users, this continues to be a problem at great cost to the service. Once additional data has been gathered, new proposals will be made to reduce this activity further. The Recycling Centres are continuing to be serviced by FRS’s fleet of Hooklift vehicles for which some routing efficiencies have been introduced reducing operating costs further.
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4.0 Financial Performance 2019/20 4.1 The following table summarises the overall trading position of the ALEO for 2019/20, net of pension liabilities: Description Budget Performance Turnover £34.298 million £35.514 million Costs £34.298 million £35.506 million Trading Surplus £ 0.000 million £ 0.008 million
4.2 The reported position for 2019/20 is an improvement of £0.447m from the out- turn in 2018/19. 4.3 The improved position was achieved after a reduction to the Management Fee in 2019/20 of £0.500m, which was year 3 of full cost recovery saving at HWRCs. 4.4 Although the reported financial position has improved greatly in comparison to previous years, the above position does not fully detail the level of improvement achieved over recent years. Taking account of the deficits in 2017/18 and 2018/19, along with continued reduction of Management Fee Funding available, this performance indicates an improvement of circa £3m over the last 2 financial years. 4.5 A major benefit of FRS is the ability to contribute to the subsidy of the current level of services provided for Fife Council, which is only feasible due to external income generating activity of RES. 4.6 In 2019/20, FRS continued to carry out a Full Unit Costing exercise, to allow the cost of activities delivered by FRS on behalf of Fife Council to be identified. The chart below provides a summary of these activities and the overall level of subsidy required, which was £3.680m. These calculations are based on the 2019/20 out-turn.
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4.7 Temporary funding received in 2019/20 was £0.174m towards the increased cost of leachate at Lochhead landfill site due to extremely wet conditions and £0.500m towards the increased residual waste tonnage. The leachate funding was one year only, while the contribution to increased residual tonnage will be removed over a 3-year period, with reductions of £0.150m in 20/21 and 21/22, with the remaining balance of £0.200m being removed in 22/23.
4.8 Below are a few key positive areas that contributed towards the financial performance in 2019/20 and the subsidy of Fife Council Activity:
• Commercial Collection income was £0.263m above budget, while also achieving an underspend of £0.210m on employee costs due to vacancy management following a number of efficiencies achieved via route rationalisation etc. • AD Plant Feed In Tariff income, was £0.155m ahead of profiled budget. • Diverting landfill waste to Energy from Waste facilities, provided a net benefit of £0.270m via cost avoidance, as the agreed rate was below the rate of landfill tax. • Third party waste disposal income was circa £0.285m ahead of budget during 2019/20. The organisation did benefit from a large-scale one-off job during the summer of 2019, while there was also a benefit of a price increase being applied while tonnages remained constant with the previous year.
4.9 The above positive issues allowed a minimal surplus to be achieved, while also mitigating the following negative issues:
• Fife Council residual waste tonnage was over and above the budget provided via the Management Fee by circa £0.640m. • The Lower Melville Wood wind turbine is budgeted at a net benefit of £0.120m per annum, but the actual benefit was £0.055m, resulting in a pressure of £0.065m. • As noted in 4.7, Fife Council did provide temporary financial assistance of £0.174m towards the impact of leachate at Lochhead landfill site, which is included in the overall Management Fee above, following extremely wet conditions, but this was £0.060m below the level of pressure in that area. 4.10 Following the application of efficiency and cost reduction measures in 2017/18 and 2018/19, the organisation had the ability to produce a more prudent and realistic budget in 2019/20, which is reflected in the final out-turn. 5. Year-End External Audit 2019/20
5.0 The year-end external audit was carried out by Henderson Loggie during May and June 2020.
5.1 Due to the current situation with Covid-19, the external audit proceeded remotely. The auditors felt this was feasible due to confidence in the processes and systems of FRS, which has been gained over the audit work over the last few years.
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5.2 The annual accounts were presented to the FRS Board on the 6th of October 2020. The external auditors provided positive feedback to the audit files that were prepared by FRS staff, while also wanted to note the level of improvement over recent years.
5.3 A copy of the audited accounts for 2019/20 is available for member review within the background papers.
6. Business Plan 2020/21 & 2021/22
6.0 The Business Plan for 2020/21 for Fife Council continues to detail the activities that FRS carry out on behalf of Fife Council for the upcoming year, along with the level of subsidy required. Which for 2020/21 requires an additional £0.724m, following Management Fee reductions and transfer of the unbudgeted recyclates pressure, taking the total subsidy required from FRS to Fife Council to circa £4.4m. 6.1 Clearly since the start of 20/21, the organisation has not been immune to the impacts of Covid-19 with a number of assumptions around commercial growth and increased income has not been feasible. Several temporary mitigations, such as, accessing the job retention scheme and reducing non-essential spend have been required. At the midway point of 2020/21 we are projecting being able to provide a subsidy of circa £4.1m (an increase of over £0.400m from 19/20), however this is circa £0.300m short of the total £4.4m required subsidy. 6.2 FRS are meeting Fife Council colleagues on a regular 4 weekly basis to review the projected 2020/21 financial position to ensure all opportunities are being accessed to mitigate the reduction in external income generation as far as possible, while also highlighting any further areas of risk. As noted in 6.2, there is an expected shortfall in the level of subsidy required by circa £0.300m at the midway stage of 2020/21. 6.3 As the Business Plan focuses on Fife Council activity, FRS are also working on a 3-year Strategic Plan, focusing on the key areas of the business and the potential impact of any upcoming changes. By focusing on a longer period, this will allow the organisation to plan for any future challenges as well as taking advantage of any further opportunities. 6.4 Due to the current situation with Covid-19, the Business Plan for 21/22, which was submitted to Fife Council in October 2020, has included a Covid-19 impact for each major activity carried out.
7. Future Challenges
7.0 As a result of Covid-19, the ALEO faces substantial challenges that will impact on its ability to generate the revenue streams necessary to accommodate the level of subsidy required for Fife Council activity to continue at current levels, as detailed in 6.2.
7.1 Moving forward a significant challenge for the organisation, is the proposed ban on biodegradable waste to landfill, which has been extended from 2021 to 2025. The landfill ban will have significant impacts not only on where Fife Council’s waste can go, but it will reduce the capacity to generate income from third parties.
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There is still an expectation that an element of landfill will continue but, due to the waste types we currently deal with, there was a need to pursue alternative disposal methods. The primary future outlet for residual waste will move from landfill to energy from waste (EfW). Currently RES have arranged agreements with two outlets; Earls Gate Energy Centre (for 80k tonnes of waste), and Westfield Energy Recovery Park (160,000 tonnes), both of which provide a long- term residual waste disposal capacity via Energy from Waste. The capacity acquired will also offer opportunities to sell spare capacity to third parties, replacing the reducing landfill income over time. The transition from landfill to EfW will be fundamental to how the business operates going forward, although this will remain a challenge to the change in how the organisation operates.
7.2 One further impact of Covid-19 is the change in waste behaviour, with more people working from home, greater volumes of waste have been collected at the kerbside rather than via commercial contracts. This has the potential negative impact due to the loss of commercial collection income from business premises, while seeing an increase in cost from increased domestic collected volumes. 7.3 In future years there is a potential impact following be the introduction of the Deposit and Return Scheme (DRS) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This will impact on the volume and types of materials that are collected, which may reduce the quality available, therefore reducing income, and will require careful review of any proposed legislation to ensure any impact is kept to an absolute minimum.
8. Conclusion
8.0 The principle objective of the organisation is to generate third party revenue to ensure critical Council Services are protected as far as possible. The organisation continues to have this at its heart and have made significant strides in delivering on this objective. The financial position of FRS has improved greatly over the last 2 financial years, demonstrated with the 2019/20 out-turn and the ability to subsidise Fife Council activity to the required level in 2019/20 of circa £3.68m.
Background Papers Fife Resources LLP: Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2020
Report Contacts Ken Gourlay, Head of ATE Telephone: 03451 55 55 55 Ext No 440473 Email: [email protected]
Lee Drysdale, Finance Manager (Fife Resource Solutions) Telephone: 03451 55 55 55 Ext No 442336 Email: [email protected]
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Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee Forward Work Programme as of 26/11/2020
Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee of 28 January 2021 Title Service(s) Contact(s) Comments Minute Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee Work Programme Scottish Fire & Rescue Service Scottish Fire & Rescue Service Local Plan 6 Months Performance Report Severe Flooding - August 2020 Assets, Transportation and Ross Speirs further investigation Environment
Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee of 25 March 2021 Title Service(s) Contact(s) Comments Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee Work Programme Minute Environmental Health (Food & Economy, Planning and Lisa Mccann Workplace Safety) Service Employability Delivery Plan
Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee of 27 May 2021 Title Service(s) Contact(s) Comments Climate Fife Update Catherine Payne Annual report - agreed at meeting 6/2/20 Minute Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee Work Programme
120 Agenda Item No. 11
Environment & Protective Services Sub-Committee Forward Work Programme as of 26/11/2020 Unallocated Title Service(s) Contact(s) Comments Decomissioning Submarines Nigel Kerr Briefing paper to be issued. Scotland's Proposed Deposit Enterprise and Environment Stephanie Newstead Return Scheme Illegal Dumping - Update on Housing Services Dawn Jamieson Measures Taken Private Garden Care Scheme Assets, Transportation and John Rodigan Update Environment Recycling Points Review Assets, Transportation and Angela Rough Environment Carbon Management Plan Assets, Transportation and Hayley Williamson Environment Tree Management Strategy Assets, Transportation and John Rodigan Environment Distribution of Free Bio Bags Assets, Transportation and Simon Jeynes Simon Jeynes confirmed briefing Environment note to be issued. 10/03/20 2020/21 Revenue Monitoring Finance and Corporate Services Ashleigh Allan Projected Outturn 2020/21 Capital Monitoring Finance and Corporate Services Ashleigh Allan Projected Outturn Product Safety Economy, Planning and Lyndsey Radke Briefing note issued - 23/04/20. Employability No report required. Consultation Response: Economy, Planning and Lisa Mcarthur Briefing note issued 14th April. No Regulation of Non-Surgical Employability report required. Cosmetic Procedures in Scotland
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