February 2023 Minutes

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Minutes of Meeting of Bridge of Allan Community Council

Held on Tuesday 21st February 2023 in the Allan Centre.

 

Present: Anna Doeser (AD) Vice Chair and Communications Officer; Leslie Harkness (LH) Secretary; Alasdair Taylor (AT) Treasurer; Emma Fradgley (EF); Rosalynd Webb (RW); Vicky McDowell (VmcD); Robin Kleinman (RK); Bill Fortune (BF);

Apologies: Mike Watson (MW) Chair; Alastair Heron (AH) Planning Officer; Heather Jones (HJ); Sandra Davidson (SD) ; Moira Randall (MR) Associate Member; Councillor Douglas Dodds; Councillor Alasdair Tollemache; Councillor Ewan Dillon; Alexander Stewart (MSP); Alyn Smith (MP);

In attendance: PC Paul Gilliland; PC Ross Barclay; Gavin Drummond (GD) ; Graham Russell Chair of the Friends of Bridge of Allan; Douglas Nielson Secretary, Friends of Bridge of Allan; Inga Bullen (IMB) Chair, RAGE; Jo Cookson Bridge of Allan Scouts ; Obaid Rehman BOA Primary School PTA; 5 other residents; Brian Bullen Minute Taker;

 

Abbreviations:

Annual General Meeting (AGM), Bridge of Allan (BOA), Community Council (CC), Common Good Fund (CGF), Stirling Council (SC), Wallace Monument Stakeholder Advisory Group (WMSAG), Discover Bridge of Allan (DBOA) , Residents Against Greenbelt Erosion (RAGE); Community Action Plan (CAP); Local Place Plan (LPP)

B 2183. Welcome, Apologies and Conflict of Interest

AD opened the meeting at 19.30, welcoming those present. The apologies were noted as indicated above.

There were no expressions of conflict of interest.

 

B 2184. Approval of Minutes, Matters Arising and Action Log

VMcD proposed the Jan 2023 minutes be approved , Seconded by BF.

 

LH reported on Matters Arising and Action Log, the report from LH is reproduced here:

 

Matters Arising (LH)

In relation to Item B 2180 and the road traffic conditions in Fountain Road, a resident wrote to express concern about the failure to observe the 20mph restrictions in the town, both on Fountain Road and in general in the town. The resident also underlined the issue, raised at the January meeting, of the Stagecoach buses using Fountain Road as an alternative route. The Secretary has contacted the Community Police on these issues and also our local Stirling Council elected members, with Councillors Tollemache and Dodds subsequently contacting the resident. In its response, the Community Police have indicated that, while Police Scotland does not routinely enforce 20mph restrictions as these are intended to be self-enforcing and sustainable, the local police, where possible, will now make efforts to monitor traffic in Fountain Road. The Community Police also indicated that SC monitors compliance with restrictions and can, if required, put in place additional traffic calming measures. With regard to the Stagecoach buses, the Community Police have advised the resident to raise his concerns directly with the company. Councillor Dodds has in fact contacted the bus company and has received confirmation that the Cornton/Fountain Road route is the correct route. It is worth noting that the CityLink service appears to be valued in the community and that a number

 

of CC members feel that, at a time when local bus services are being cut in many communities, the advantages of the route outweigh any disadvantages.

 

With regard to Item B 2181 and the suggestion from Gavin Drummond that building rubble from the Ivy be used to extend the car parking area in the Haws Park, Councillor Dodds raised this with SC and he has, subsequently forwarded the council’s response. In the response the council emphasized that building works material is controlled waste which attracts Land Tax and which can not be transported to an unlicensed site. In addition extending the car park would require planning approval and also the addressing of a range of problems relating to the site. An initial feasibility study to identify likely problems and potential costs would also be required. Mr Drummond has sent a response, forwarded to Councillor Dodds, in which he argues that that an extension of the car parking provision would indeed be viable and he takes the view that SC should be encouraged to initiate a feasibility study.

 

In terms of Item B 2178 and the wooden benches in the Memorial Garden, Councillor Tollemache reported that SC have replaced the plaque on the replacement bench dedicated to Gwen Mayor. Also under the same item and the three concerns of the Bridge of Allan Activities Group regarding the Allan Centre, MW has raised these concerns with SC.

 

Action Log (LH)

The actions were addressed under their agenda items.

 

 

B 2185. Police Report

PC Ross Barclay delivered the Police Report - the text of which is reproduced here:

 

Introduction / synopsis of previous month:

This report should provide sufficient information of the police activity since the last community council meeting. If you have any further questions about the police report or any incidents that you are aware of that are not included in this report then please email us direct on the above email address and we will answer your questions.

 

If anyone has any information on any incidents that we have been unable to identify a suspect then please let us know by email, 101 or by contacting Crimestoppers.

 

The report encompasses all relevant crime and other matters which have occurred between 16th January 2023 and 17th February 2023.

 

Current Priorities:

Our current priorities in the Bridge of Allan area continue to be Anti-Social Behaviour, Road Safety and Community Engagement and Reassurance.

 

Main Report:

Between the 16th January 2023 and 17th February 2023 a total of 12 crimes occurred within the Bridge of Allan area (which also covers University of Stirling). The incidents detailed below are of relevance to the local community.

 

ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

Only two crimes recorded in relation to anti-social behaviour over the stated period.

One relates to a domestic incident and the other relates to a member of the public who was verbally abused by a motorist within the grounds of Stirling University.

Both these incidents have been detected.

 

DRUG MISUSE

 

On the 19/01/2023 Police spoke with the driver of a vehicle which was parked up in Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan. The driver’s vehicle was searched during which time controlled drugs were found within. The driver was subsequently arrested for other road traffic matters. This enquiry is currently ongoing however is likely to be detected.

 

VIOLENT CRIME

On Saturday 4th February 2023 a disturbance took place within the Westerton Arms, Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan during which time several staff members and patrons within were assaulted. This matter is currently under investigation and Police are currently pursuing a positive line of enquiry to trace those responsible.

 

 

The other violent crime recorded over the stated period relates to a domestic assault. The individual responsible for this was traced and will be subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

 

HOUSEBREAKINGS/CRIMES OF DISHONESTY

Over the stated period three business premises in Henderson Street were broken into. Two of these incidents occurred on the same evening on the 19/01/2023 (Theft by housebreaking and Housebreaking with intent to steal) The other incident reported occurred on the 23/01/2023. All three incidents were committed by the same individuals who following a thorough Police investigation were identified, arrested and charged. A report has now been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal in respect of these incidents.

 

ROAD SAFETY AND ROAD TRAFFIC RELATED CRIME

About 1905hrs on the 08/02/2023 an Audi A1 was struck by another vehicle within the car park at the CO-OP Fountain Road, Bridge of Allan. The offending vehicle failed to stop and drove off from the car park. The offending vehicle was silver in colour and is believed to be an estate driven by a male driver. Should anyone have any information in relation to this offence Police can be contacted quoting CR/0018543/23.

 

On the 11/02/2023 a vehicle was stopped by Police between Bridge of Allan and Keir for a road traffic offence. Whilst obtaining details from the driver it transpired the driver did not have a license. The car was subsequently seized and the driver will be subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

 

 

MATTERS OF NOTE

 

On the 24/01/2023 local community officers had a stall at the welcome event at Stirling University. During this event local officers engaged positively with a number of new and returning students providing crime prevention advice.

 

On the 25/01/2023 local community officers delivered a fraud awareness input at Strathallan Court, Cornton Road, Bridge of Allan. In total local officers engaged with around 20 residents raising awareness on fraud and providing relevant advice.

 

On the 06/02/2023 local community officers carried out speed checks at different locations along Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan over an approximate 60 minute period. It was noted that the vast majority of motorists were adhering to the speed limit in force however Police did stop and speak with three drivers who were warned regarding their speed and given appropriate advice.

 

Between the 16th January 2023 and 17th February 2023 there has been a total of 126 calls to the Bridge of Allan area. A breakdown of some of the calls are as follows: 1 public nuisance calls, 2 drug related calls, 3 disturbance type calls, 11 domestic incident type calls, 0 noise related calls, 1 neighbour dispute calls, 5 theft related calls, 1 assault calls, 0 damage calls, 7 concern for person type calls and 13 road traffic related calls

 

Activity for forthcoming month:

Speed checks to be conducted on Henderson Street and any other areas highlighted by local residents.

 

https://scotland.police.uk/yourviewcounts

Community Police Email Address: DunblaneBridgeofAllanCPT@scotland.pnn.police.uk

 

RK refered to the recent violent assualts at the Westerton Hotel and asked about pro-active policing re the forthcoming Saturday's rugby matches.

PC Paul Gilliland responded the police attempt higher presence in pubs when e.g. Celtic are playing ( the rugby events, such as the 6-Nations, tend not to be accompanied by disturbances).

He also spoke about the problems of policing 20 mph zones. These should be self-enforcing. The community police have limited manpower.

EF asked about fraud and scams. PC Gilliland indicated there are information articles on the Police Scotland website and asked if there were people who would benefit from a talk. EF also asked about hard-copy leaflets. The Police dont have prints, but those on the website could be printed.

 

B 2186 Greenspace Ranger Report (AD)

AD presented a report from the SC Greenspace Ranger Service, the text of which is reproduced here:

 

Stirling Council Ranger Service

Stirling Council (SC) appointed 3 new Greenspace Rangers in June 2022. The Ranger Service works to manage, maintain, and promote greenspaces for both people and wildlife across the Stirling area. The Rangers work closely with council colleagues, local community groups, schools and the public, to encourage enjoyment of the natural and cultural heritage of their sites. This involves being out at sites engaging with members of the public, offering a warm welcome and supporting people to enjoy the outdoors. The rangers will also play a key role in raising awareness and encouraging responsible use of council greenspace, working closely with community groups and the public to address any issues. As well as carrying out regular patrols and inspections of sites, and undertaking maintenance and conservation tasks, the rangers have a variety of skills and experience to deliver outdoor education, practical volunteer sessions, and engagement events and provide wildlife and access information and advice.

More information about the Ranger Service can be found on the Councils website: https://www.stirling.gov.uk/community-life-and-leisure/greenspace-rangers/

 

 

Bridge of Allan Greenspaces

Stirling Council Ranger Service are responsible for managing Mine Wood and Mid Wood in Bridge of Allan. The Ranger Service was informed in 2022 of concerns about access issues and anti-social behaviour in Mine Woods. Prior to their appointments there have been periods with insufficient resource to manage sites, like Mine Wood. These concerns were acknowledged by the Ranger Service & Access Officer Fiona Miller.

Greenspace Ranger Luke Taylor carried out an initial inspection to identify the issues. It was decided that further input was needed and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland and the Community Police Officers were contacted. No permission has been given for the trails and associated structures to be built, and the individuals or groups carrying out this work are unknown. Undertaking work like this on someone else’s land is not an activity within the scope of the statutory right of access in Scotland and as the landowner, Stirling Council has a legal duty of care to all users. The removal of trees without permission from the landowner is also classed as a criminal offence.

Luke met with a community police officer on site to discuss anti-social activity and sabotaging of paths used by MTB. It was agreed that the Ranger Service would report any significant issues and escalations to the Police, and continue to monitor fire sites and look for trees being removed. The Ranger Service will continuing to maintain a relationship with the police and work together to raise awareness about the issues.

Luke and Fiona met with Graeme McLean (Head of Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland) and Scott Laughland (Professional MTB Athlete) on site to discuss the access related issues. Guidance was received on how to deal with the situation and advised about the mountain biking trails and infrastructure. Part of ongoing management will be to engage with users, to involve and educate them about the situation and the issues it presents to SC as a landowner. It was agreed that existing unsafe structures should be removed and that further awareness was needed. Under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, mountain bikers enjoy equal rights of access as walkers, horse-riders and other non-motorised users to most land, provided that they exercise their rights responsibly which in some cases have not been. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code also sets out 3 key principles for enjoying the outdoors – respect the rights of others, care for the environment and take responsibility for your own actions.

Further meetings will be arranged between SC Ranger Service & Access Officer to look at, in the first instance, installing signage about multi-use paths and responsible outdoor access, then the removal of unsafe structures. The Ranger Service fully appreciates the concerns regarding health and safety of all users, the ecological impact within the woods and the potential criminal damage to our land. Ongoing community engagement will be a part of the Ranger Services remit managing the site and there will be opportunities for community groups and volunteers to assist through practical conservation work and events. The Rangers will continue to carry out regular site inspections, collect litter, remove fires, and address any other anti-social activity or hazards found.

 

 

AD reported she had emailed the Ranger service about issues including:

• Grey squirrels and red squirrel sighting
• Giant Hogweed
• Mink
• Shared use of paths
• Tree felling
• Litter and fly tipping
• Access- blocked paths with fallen trees, broken steps, benches, fences
• Strategy- Knowing which are the councils managed green spaces and seeing a management plan or biodiversity action plan would be helpful.
• Pollinators

 

AD mentioned the Greenspace Action days, and if CC could help publicize if one is in BOA.

AT mentioned there was a lack of publicity regarding the use of greenspaces such as MineWood, and that it would be good to educate people.

 

 

 

ACTION: LH to email Cllr Dodds to progress issue of informative signage in greenspaces.

MW had emailed to ask the ranger service who is responsible for the Darn Walk and Centenary Walk. AD reported asking Guy Harewood for a map of the SC greenspaces.

 

ACTION: LH to query SC regarding the Darn and Centenary walks.

 

A resident drew attention to the red sprayed dog messes on the cycle track from Cornton Rail crossing parallel to the railway line heading to Stirling. RK commented on the perpetual problem of dog mess, and how he and Cllr Dodds had tried hanging up bottles dispensing dog poo bags.

 

B 2187. Community Action Plan Review (RW)

RW reported she had updated the CC Contacts (Stakeholders) spreadsheet based on a list of groups from LH. This includes contact details such as email addresses and comment fields. She is to obtain permission from all contacts to store personal data (as per GDPR ).

 

B 2188. Local Place Plan (LH)

LH reported missing the SC webinar session on Local Place Plans on Monday (20^th Feb) as he had not received the web link.

IMB and AH had received the link ( IMB said the updated link had the webinar start at 6 and not 6.30, and

several other attendees joined at the original time of 6.30). IMB reported that the LPP submission deadline was to be in spring 2025. LH said he had emailed Stephen Bly for a copy of the notes and slides which apparently are available for those who missed the meeting, and that  the Scottish government's own guidance notes are very detailed and helpful.

More concrete guidance is expected from SC. The SC Community Development team may be able to find funding to help engage whole communities – this is likely to be targetted to communities which need assistance. Templates for applications are expected in due course.

It was note that Doune and Deanston have started on their Community Plan.

The membership of a LPP subgroup was discussed. MW had expressed interest as did LH and AT. IMB could contribute as a resident (non-voting).

 

ACTION: AH to progress LPP subgroup.

 

B 2189. Coronation 'Event' / Resilience Group (RK)

 

Coronation Event:

RK had attended a recent Friends of Bridge of Allan meeting at which a tree planting ceremony was proposed to be held for the King Charles's Coronation. The Friends had planted a magnolia

on the triangular park (bounded by Keir St., Westerton Dr. and Melville Pl.) for the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee. As most people may watch the ceremony on TV , the Friends proposed to do this on Monday May 8^th ( which is a National Bank Holiday, but not confirmed yet by Stirling Council). RK suggested a possible joint venture.

It was suggested the triangular park be renamed 'The Royal Triangle'.

Jo Cookson of the Bridge of Allan Scout Group announced that the Scouts have a leading role in the National Day of Volunteering on May 8^th. The hope is that various other groups will engage in 'The Big Help Out' with various activities.

The was also plans for a 'Big Eat Out' on Sunday May 7^th.

AT expressed the view that this was a good opportunity to talk to the community in an informal way. Possibly a booklet about the CC could be produced.

Regarding activities, Jo suggested people bring packet lunches to avoid applying for special licenses for catering on council land.

 

 

ACTION: LH to ask SB if Stirling Council will grant a bank holiday on May 8^th. ACTION: AD to contact DBOA about any events they are promoting.

 

 

Resilience Group:

RK reported the formation of the BOA Resilience Group. Formed by Cllr Dodds about 6 months ago, with RK, GD and a couple of others with the objective to help elderly people in the event of bad weather.

 

Flood Support Group:

RK then reported on the Flood Support Group comprising himself and VmcD. There all big red bins by the Fire Station.These contain expanding pillows which can be placed to block flood water entering properties.

Cornton Rd. in particular being at risk when the River Allan floods. The expanding pillows cannot be reused after deployment.

The bins are currently full with new pillows. RK is to receive the 'key' to the padlocks from SC.

 

B 2190. Planning Report (LH)

AH was unable to attend but had emailed a report to LH. LH summarized:

 

• 105 Henderson

A new application has just been announced in the last few days, for the demolition of the existing villa, with a development of 14 flats.

• Blairforkie – The Reporter had stalled the decision in order for the implications of the recently updated Scottish Goverment National Planning Framework (NPF4) to be Cllr Tollemache had passed on infomation from the Scottish Goverment. The main parties have been invited to comment by Feb 23^rd, after which each party has 14 days to make comments on the others information.
• Post Office – Potential tenants have been viewing who have postmaster

 

GD raised concerns re the 105 Henderson St. villa being replace by two blocks of 7 apartments, with 4 floors in each block.

 

GD said that the CC should comment , particularly given there are 14 flats but only 21 car parking spaces, and overall with the 103 Henderson St. development there will be 28 flats.

 

AT noted the problem of speed of response to planning applications given the CC only meets monthly

LH said that the CC can only comment after a vote at either a regular monthly or extraordinary meeting. There was a discussion of a need for a process to handle applications.

 

ACTION: CC to inform council that it is considering the 105 Henderson Street application.

 

B 2191. Chair’s Report (AD)

AD explained the situation regarding the forthcoming Community Council Elections:o April 3^rd: Notice of election, open for nominations.

April 14^th – Current CC activities cease. April 17^th – Close for nominations.

There will only be a ballot if there are more nominations than positions available (13). Fewer than 7 nominations and the CC does not form.

If no ballot, inaugral meeting of new CC on May 16^th.

If a ballot , election runs in May/June with results week commencing 29^th June with inaugral meeting on July

18^th..

 

RK is now eligible for full membership (6 months since being co-opted), which was offered and he accepted. IMB can continue to contribute to the LPP discussions without being a full voting member.

 

 

B 2192. Secretary’s Report (LH)

 

Communications from SC Elected Members

Councillor Tollemache has raised the following with SC:

• potholes in the town centre which SC has confirmed it would address;
• the litter alongside the road from the Keir roundabout to Bridge of Allan;
• complaints by residents of Pullar avenue about speeding vehicles, an issue to which SC has responded indicating that speed surveys will be organized.

He has written to the Scottish Government to request an update on the progress of the planning permission appeals process in relation to the Blairforkie development and he has received a response indicating that the main parties to the appeal response have until February 23^rd to comment on the implications for the appeal of newly published guidance on transitional arrangements. Councillor Tollemache also intends to raise with SC the issue of the lack of Wi-Fi in the Allan Centre.

He has also forwarded from SC details of the temporary closure and suspension of parking at Westerlea Court for seven days in March.

 

Councillor Dodds has forwarded:

• details of the Dial-a-journey service

The councillor has raised with the Stirling Area Commander of Police Scotland the concerns of the proprietor of the Westerton Arms aboutthe disturbing incident in which customers and staff were assaulted by three males.

Councillor Dodds has raised with SC the need for a number of potholes and cracks in the road surface to be addressed.

 

Communications from Residents

One resident contacted the CC to voice his dismay at the serious implications that the closure of the post office would have for the town while another wrote to express concern about the number of retail businesses closing and the declining number of bus services.

 

Communications from Stirling Council

The CC has received the following:

• confirmation that restrictions have been put in place now that Avian Influenza has been detected in premises to the west of Stirling.

 

General Communications

The CC has received the following:

• a poster for the Saviour’s Warm Space drop-in provision;
• the January issue of the Scottish Rural Action newsletter;
• the February newsletter of our MSP;
• the Christmas lights invoice from Gordon Electrical Ltd;
• the February issue of theScottish Community Councils newsletter

 

B 2193. Treasurer’s Report (AT)

 

AT drew attention to the small amount (£5.75) in the PlayParks fund, and that the invoice had now been received for the Christmas Lights and settled. The current bank balance is now just over £12,000.

The detailed accounts are in Appendix 1 of the minutes. AT responded to the January Action log item regarding the PA system – he has'nt progressed it yet.

 

 

B 2194. Residents’ Voice

 

A resident requested that the agenda fit on one page for printing and that abbreviations / acronyms not be used.

 

ACTION: LH to not use acronyms in the agenda and condense to one page.

 

A representative of the Primary School PTA (Obaid Rehman) announced their Gardening Event to

develop the school garden. Volunteers are invited to help with the gardening on Sat and Sun 11^th/12^th March between 10am and 2pm.

 

B 2195. AOCB

Regarding the Police report and EF's query regarding a leaflet for Older People about doorstep scans, it was mentioned that AgeConcern have a useful leaflet

 

 

B 2196. Common Good Fund Application (AT)

AT reported that DBOA had retracted their application and an updated application is expected.

GD suggested that DBOA consider BID (Business Improvement District) funding as a better avenue that

the CGF. A BID involves a small levy made on the rates payable by commercial rate payers in a community and this is made available to enhance the business prospects of the area concerned.

The next meeting of the Civic Panel is expected in April. The CGF cannot be used for something the council provides.

 

B 2197. Date of Next Meeting

 

The next meeting is Tue 21^st March 2023 at the Allan Centre, 7.30pm.

 

 

Action Log Summary:

 

1. (from B 2186) : LH to email Cllr Dodds to progress issue of informative signage in
2. (from B 2186) : LH to email Cllr Dodds to progress issue of informative signage in
3. (from B 2188) : AH to progress LPP
4. (from B 2189) : LH to ask SB if Stirling Council will grant a bank holiday on May 8^th.
5. (from B 2189) : AD to contact DBOA about any events they are
6. (from B 2190) : CC to inform council that it is considering the 105 Henderson Street
7. (from B 2194) : LH to not use acronyms in the agenda and condense to one

 

Appendix 1 – Treasurer's Report February 2023