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Minute of Meeting on 26th September 2011

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 26^TH SEPTEMBER 2011

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Anita Jones (Treasurer) (AJ)

Caroline Gould (Secretary) (CG)

Denis Gould (DG)

Karl Ross (Vice Chair) (KR).

Willie Inglis (WI).

Others:

Constable Ritchie MacRae (Northern Constabulary).

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Anthony Moore (Chairperson) and John Gillies.

2. Minute of Meetings of 26^th August 2011.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved with no changes and signed. Proposed by DG. Seconded by AJ.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. The construction of the new Broadford Health Centre is progressing well.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Skye and Lochalsh Access Forum meeting on Monday 3^rd October at Tigh na Sgire, Portree. No action required.

4.2. Letter from Highland Council Licensing regarding application for variation of a premises licence at Coruisk House, Elgol. No action required.

4.3. Letter from Ridge Wind regarding recently established co-operative. CG to action.

4.4. Letter from Circle of Care requesting a donation towards the senior citizens Christmas Lunch.

4.5. Letter from Highland Council regarding cessation of Association of Scottish Community Councils. No action required.

4.6. Highland Public Partnership Equalities and Diversities Group Newsletter. No action required.

4.7. Email from Colin MacDonald, Learning Centre Manager looking for opportunity to meet with the Community Council. CG to action.

5. Northern Constabulary.

Constable MacRae reported that there had been some thefts of unattended property in Skye and Lochalsh and incidents of money being stolen from public telephone boxes. The Community Council updated Constable MacRae on the current situation with regard to Community Council business. Constable MacRae said that if we wrote to Northern Constabulary they may be able to support the Community Council's request for a pedestrian crossing near the Co-operative in Broadford. CG to action.

6. Limepark Garden Project.

Following further discussion regarding this project, it was agreed to invite all four Local Councillor's and Liz Cowie, the new Ward Manager to the next meeting. CG to action.

7. A.O.C.B.

7.1. Broadford Village Christmas Tree. DG to action.

7.2. It was unanimously agreed to purchase a Poppy Wreath for the Broadford Remembrance Day Service to be from the Broadford and Strath Community Council . CG to action.

7.3. The possibility of planting minature Daffodils in the Village Flower Tubs was discussed. AJ to action.

7.4. It was unanimously agreed to donate £150 towards the Circle of Care Senior Citizens Christmas Lunch. CG to action.

8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 31^st October 2011 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel.  Members of the public are very welcome to attend, however, it should be noted that Community Council meetings are official business meetings held in public rather than public meetings. If someone wishes to raise an item they should contact the secretary at least 14 days prior to a meeting in order that it can be put on the agenda.

 

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 26th August 2011

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

DRAFT MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON FRIDAY 26^TH AUGUST 2011

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Anthony Moore (Chairperson) (AM)

Anita Jones (Treasurer) (AJ)

Caroline Gould (Secretary) (CG)

Denis Gould (DG)

Karl Ross (Vice Chair) (KR).

Others:

Jan Laing, John MacDonald and Councillor

Hamish Fraser (all representing Highland Council).

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Willie Inglis, John Gillies and

Constable Brian Harper (Northern Constabulary).

2. Minute of Meetings of 8^th August 2011.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved with no changes and signed. Proposed by DG. Seconded by AJ. The minute of the AGM was agreed as being an accurate record, and was signed as such, but remains to be made available and ratified at the next AGM.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Despite concerns that were made regarding the number of access issues at Broadford Village Hall which have been brought to the attention of the Community Council but which do not appear to have been brought before the Village Hall Association by those individuals or groups concerned, following discussion a decision was made that these should be recorded accurately within the minutes. We now leave these matters in the hands of the Village Hall Association to resolve.

3.2. The Scotland Transerv works should be ongoing soon.

3.3. Councillor Fraser asked for clarification as to which cattle grid there had been a problem with on the B8083. It was explained that it was the first cattle grid on the Torrin road, when leaving Broadford.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from a Mr Frank R Gray in San Rafael, California, USA, addressed to the Office of the Mayor, City Hall, Broadford, Scotland, asking for information. It was agreed to respond with information. CG to action.

4.2. Receipt from Eoin MacLeod, contractor of Limepark Garden Project, in respect of cheque paid by the Community Council.

5. Northern Constabulary.

No apparent issues.

6. Broadford Medical Practice.

The archaeological excavation appears to have been completed and work seems to be progressing on the ground loop system and the foundations at present.

7. Limepark Garden Project.

A protracted and exhaustive discussion about this project took place with the representatives of Highland Council. Councillor Hamish Fraser stated that there was never any assurance given by the previous Community Council that they would raise additional funds for this project. He agreed that there may have been a suggestion that once the original design plan for the project had been completed then there may be ways of finding additional funding elsewhere in the future in order to extend the garden further but, of this it was made clear there was no guarantee. The current Community Council has insisted to the contractor at every meeting that a maximum of £5,500 was available for the original design plan for this project, which still remains unfinished. Discussion about possible funding from the Highland Council Discretionary Fund highlighted that as Highland Council had already agreed to fund £5,000 towards this project originally, no further funding would be likely from Highland Council via the Discretionary Fund. Councillor Fraser stated that he would not support an application to the Discretionary Fund for this project. The Community Council has discussed finding other sources of funding but the project, having been ongoing for over four years, has failed to meet the requirements of application to any of these possible sources. An application to Urras na Drochaid (the Skye Bridge Trust) was conditionally approved however the Community Council felt they could not meet the conditions stipulated in the offer.

Whilst it is appreciated that the original design plan could have added considerably to Broadford, the project has been ongoing for some four and a half years and there is no apparent prospect of the contractor completing the project to the original design plan within anything close to the agreed budget available. The contractor is now looking for double the agreed amount to complete the project without informing the Community Council in writing, as requested, what further work is required to achieve this. Neither has the contractor informed the Community Council as to how he can alter the original plan in order to complete the project closer to the budget of £5,500, despite being asked to do this. The Community Council, having sought and received legal advice on this matter, unanimously decided that in order to pursue their duty of care to the community and minimise the commitment of further resources, the project should regrettably cease. Letters will be sent to Mr MacLeod and to Urras na Drochaid (the Skye Bridge Trust). CG to action.

8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. A letter to go to Angus Macphie to thank him for auditing the accounts. AM to action.

8.2. Concern was raised that the Community Council had been informed recently that Broadford Library and Service Point were only going to hold the latest minute of the Community Council but it was felt that they should keep a ring binder with at least a year's minutes available for members of the public to view. John MacDonald to look into this.

8.3. The Community Council has been approached regarding a recent planning application for a public building. The Community Council agreed to look into this. AM and CG to action.

8.4. Concern was expressed regarding the covering of local bus shelters with unauthorised posters. Highland Council officials advised the Community Council to contact Bob Mitchell, Trunk Road Manager North, in Perth about this issue.

9. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 26^th September 2011 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel.  Members of the public are very welcome to attend, however, it should be noted that Community Council meetings are official business meetings held in public rather than public meetings. If someone wishes to raise an item they should contact the secretary at least 14 days prior to a meeting in order that it can be put on the agenda.

 

 

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 8th August 2011

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 8^TH AUGUST 2011

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Anthony Moore (Chairperson) (AM)

Anita Jones (Treasurer) (AJ)

Caroline Gould (Secretary) (CG)

Denis Gould (DG)

Willie Inglis (WI).

Others:

Dr Cameron Tallach (not representing any organisation).

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Karl Ross (Vice Chair), John Gillies and Hamish Fraser.

2. Minute of Meeting of 4^th July 2011.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved with

no changes. Proposed by DG. Seconded by AJ.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. The new Police Station signs have been removed.

3.2. A considerable number of access issues at Broadford Village Hall which have been highlighted to the Community Council now include access to clothing shop held in Committee Room (which requires negotiation via steps); kitchen counter being unsuitable for wheelchair access and for people requiring to sit, both inside and outside the kitchen;  lack of hearing loops; lack of suitable wheelchair access (externally and internally); lack of appropriate signage; internal stairs having to be negotiated by people in wheelchairs (concern has been expressed about the lack of dignity for disabled individuals and that insurance would not cover damage to wheelchairs or injury to persons because suitable appropriate independent access should be available); lack of suitable emergency exits for disabled people; problems with the accessible toilet; light and contrast issues for visually impaired people; lack of suitable access to car park, to the play park and the MUGA pitch/playing field; apparent lack of information provided to hirers of the hall and an apparent unawareness of the provision of such information in alternative formats if required. The Village Hall Association has been advised to contact the Skye and Lochalsh Access Panel to request advice regarding how to resolve these and other access issues in order fulfil their obligation under the Equality Act (2010) and the Disability Discrimination Acts (1995 & 2005).

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Email from Jan Laing to advise that Bob Cameron, Corporate Manager, is retiring from Highland Council on 8^th July 2011. The new Corporate Manager will be William Gilfillan. Jan Laing has also advised that she will be leaving Highland Council on 30^th September 2011 and the new Eilean a' Cheo Ward Manager will be Liz Cowie.

4.2. Email from Jan Laing advising a meeting for Community Councillors to discuss the Community Council Elections will be held on Wednesday 14^th September 2011 in Portree.

4.3. Highland Small Communities Housing Trust newsletter.

4.4. Scotland Transerv letters notifying of essential drainage works due to take place on the A87 at Strollamus commencing on 15^th August for 4 weeks and of two resurfacing schemes on the A87 between Kyleakin and Broadford, programmed to be constructed in overlapping 2 week slots between 5^th September and 23^rd September 2011 as follows: A87 West of Kyleakin Roundabout from 5^th September to 16^th September and A87 Broadford Cemetery from 12^th September to 23^rd September.

4.5. Copies of the recently signed Community Council Constitution and Standing Orders for our records. CG to retain.

4.6. Email from Scottish Association of Community Councils informing us that they have had to close down due to lack of government funding.

4.7. Correspondence from Chris MacKenzie of Eilean Iarmain Estate confirming that the Estate would have no objection to Highland Council laying a stone flagged pathway to the Broadford War Memorial and for the grounds around the memorial to be maintained by them, providing the Estate is kept free of any costs or liabilities in carrying out this work.  Mr MacKenzie would be grateful if he could be told once this work has been completed.

5. Northern Constabulary.

No apparent issues.

6. Broadford Medical Practice.

The turf cutting ceremony for the new medical practice took place on Wednesday 27^th July 2011 with representation from the Community Council present. There have been some archaeological finds on site in the area of the proposed car park and encroaching slightly onto the footprint of the proposed building but delays of up to a fortnight only are expected, as a result of this. The newly formed Broadford Patient Participation Group has been asked to provide a name for the new health centre. They would like to canvass the opinion of patients at the practice and have also approached the Community Council to contribute suggestions for a name. It was agreed that the Community Council would think about this and bring any suggested names to the next meeting. The Community Council expressed their delight that this project was now beginning to come to fruition and thanked CG for her input on this project over the last few years.

7. Broadford Village Hall Correspondence.

A letter was received from Broadford Village Hall Association in June following their attendance at a Community Council meeting. The letter was signed by several people. Following discussion, disappointment was expressed at the apparent lack of understanding of the Village Hall Association as to their obligations under the Equality Act (2010) and the Disability Discrimination Acts (1995 & 2005). The Community Council is required to consider, in particular, how they can contribute towards promoting equality of opportunity for all members of the community and ensuring that meetings are held in accessible venues.

8. Limepark Garden Project.

Notes of the meeting held on 4^th July 2011 were distributed to those who attended the meeting. Following approval of the notes, it was agreed that the notes should be incorporated into the Community Council minutes as follows:

"Limepark Garden

Note of the meeting held on Monday 4 July 2011 at 6.30pm in the Broadford Hotel

Present         A Moore (AM), A Jones (AJ), C Gould (CG) (B&SCC)

                  F Mandeville (FM), E MacLeod (EMacL), L Adamson,

                 C MacKenzie(C MacK) (Noble Estates)

The meeting was called to discuss and identify a way forward in the long standing dispute of the Limepark Garden project. Following general discussion it was decided that in order to establish a framework for discussion it would be necessary to provide an historical context for a project that had its origins in 2007 during the tenure of the previous CC. The salient points/action recommendations have been extracted from audio CD (file no DS500072.WMA) which is retained for the record.

CMacK clarified the role of the Estate in the current dispute. Verbal permission exists in relation to the garden site and it was now considered necessary to absolve the estate from any claims arising from injury etc. through the drawing up of a lease between the Community Council and the estate for a suggested peppercorn rent of £1.00 per annum. It was anticipated that the Community Council would bear the legal costs associated with the drawing up of the lease and arranging appropriate insurance. AM considered legal costs might be borne by HC through the Discretionary Fund and insurance covered by HC generic policy. AM to clarify. CMacK identified the need for an action plan to take forward the project towards completion.

From a Community Council perspective clarification was provided as to the original invoice dated 6/3/07 for £5500.00. At the minuted CC meeting of 2/2/09 the amount of £5500.00 was confirmed. It was claimed by EMacL and confirmed by FM and LA that there was an understanding that additional funding would become available. Unfortunately it was not possible to confirm this, as no records/minute exist. The project had suffered from delays associated with illness and a lack of communication between client/contractor to the extent that the CC had been faced with an interim bill of £6500 received on 17/7/10. In spite of concerns expressed at a previous meeting on 3/8/10 and a clear statement advising the contractor that finance was finite, additional non-approved purchases had been made. CC representatives noted the extent to which works on site exceeded the original plan. These changes had taken place without reference to or approval by the client.

There was recognition that fault lay on both sides although it is generally recognised that it is the responsibility of the contractor to advise cost increases to the client. In order to move forward it was important to clarify the current cost situation and seek a workable compromise. It was decided that in the first instance the contractor should provide:

Cost and date estimates for completion

EMacL confirmed that that it would cost £11000.00 to complete the project minus the original cost of the stone which had been paid by Highland Council. The meeting considered this amount excessive and identified that the original estimate + 10% would have been a realistic figure. CC representatives clearly identified available funding and difficulties associated with attracting additional funding.

EMacL confirmed that it would take 3 weeks/1month to complete following recovery from a current injury.

It was suggested that an interim payment might be made in recognition of work to date. The sum of £2000.00 was suggested and accepted in principle subject to discussion and approval by the CC.

There was recognition that limited funding was available from the CC. This amounted to the original sum of £5500.00 minus expenditure for stone (this paid by HC in 29/6/07) amounting to £1874.12. The residual amount of £3625.88 is currently ring fenced in the CC account. It was explained that significant efforts had been made by the CC to identify alternative funding but it had proved impossible to identify alternative funding streams for a partially completed project. It was suggested by FM that application might be made to Urras na Drochaid (The Skye Bridge Trust) which invited applications from local formally constituted community groups or organisations. AM to process application.

The meeting concluded with a plea for common sense and realism from both sides in an attempt to bring the project to a satisfactory conclusion.

Subsequent to the meeting AM contacted Jan Laing to identify potential for HC funding support and insurance. A positive response was received and query passed to Hamish Fraser for comment. Contact was established with Colin MacKenzie at Highland Council Insurance Section (01463 702417)."

Following the meeting on 4^th July, AM made an application to Urras na Drochaid (The Skye Bridge Trust), on behalf of the Community Council, requesting £2,000 funding to facilitate completion of a landscape project within Broadford, and provided the background of the Limepark Garden Project. He also included the fact that the Community Council have been actively sourcing additional grant support (and this had been discussed at the meeting on 4^th July). The trustees considered the application but reported back that they felt that they could not progress it without additional information. AM could not provide this information until he had received the requested information from the contractor, Eoin MacLeod. The contractor had promised the information would be provided within two days of the meeting on 4^th July but it was more than a couple of weeks before it was first received by the Community Council. No mention had been made of the stone that had been paid for so AM wrote and asked for the information requested to include this. The information was eventually received. Fiona Mandeville, a trustee of Urras na Drochaid, then suggested that the Community Council should make an application for £3,000. Following considerable discussion of this project, the Community Council reluctantly agreed to make an interim payment of £2,000 to Eoin MacLeod and expressed disappointment that they still had not been given a clear picture or statement of what further work he intended to do in order to complete the project, and a date by which it would be completed. Concern was expressed that without this information, there was a danger that the contractor would possibly expand the project further and add considerably more cost, both of which would be unauthorised. A covering letter clarifying the Community Council's position would be sent with the cheque and a receipt would be requested. (AM to action.) AM stated that it had been made clear to Fiona Mandeville and to Eoin MacLeod that the Community Council was not in a position to pay Eoin MacLeod the total sum of £11,000 which he was now asking in order for the project to be completed.

9. A.O.C.B.

9.1. Cattle grid problems and road problems on B8083. It was reported that a recent problem with a broken cattle grid which had led to a visitor damaging their vehicle had been repaired. Ongoing road problems to be highlighted to George Speed of TEC Services. WI to action.

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Friday 26^th August 2011 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel.  Members of the public are very welcome to attend, however, it should be noted that Community Council meetings are official business meetings held in public rather than public meetings. If someone wishes to raise an item they should contact the secretary at least 14 days prior to a meeting in order that it can be put on the agenda.

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 4th July 2011

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 4^TH JULY 2011

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson) (TM)

Karl Ross (Vice Chair) (KR)

Anita Jones (Treasurer) (AJ)

Caroline Gould (Secretary) (CG)

Denis Gould (DG)

Others:

Dolac Mackinnon (DM) and Nicholas Kelly (NK)

(representing Broadford Village Hall Association).

Constables Donald Morrison and Ritchie MacRae

(Northern Constabulary) arrived during point 4.8

of the meeting and left after point 5.

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Karl Ross (Vice Chair), John Gillies and Willie Inglis.

2. Minute of Meeting of 6^th June 2011.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved with no changes. Proposed by DG. Seconded by AJ.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Broadford Village Flower tubs have been planted. The Community Council wish to thank Ron Johnstone for his work on the tubs.

3.2. TM responded to Highland Council about the proposed iconic view plaque for Elgol.

3.3. TM received a summary of annual costs for Elgol toilets from Mark Crowe.

3.4. TM, CH, DG and KR attended the Community Council Scheme Training event in Kyleakin.

3.5. The NHS Staywell project posters have been distributed throughout Broadford and Strath.

3.6. The Community Council expressed concern in light of various concerns raised by members of the public regarding the current situation at Broadford Medical Practice which appears to be due to staff shortages and illness.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Broadford Youth Club newsletter. This seems an excellent newsletter portraying the activities of the Youth Club.

4.2. Email from Jan Laing - possible dates for Community Council Elections and Emergency Planning meeting in early September. CG to respond saying Community Council will be available for one or other of the date's suggested.

4.3. Letter from Broadford Village Hall Association - to be taken forward to next meeting.

5. Northern Constabulary.

Northern Constabulary updated the Community Council as to any local issues. DG asked why there were new Police Station signs in Broadford given the Police Station had just closed. The constables said they would contact Inspector MacLean about it.

6. New Community Council Scheme.

The Community Council discussed the new Community Council Scheme. The new Community Council constitution, standing orders, code of conduct and child protection policy were adopted and two copies of the constitution were signed by the Chair (TM) and two members (DG and AJ). TM to send these to Jan Laing.

7. A.O.C.B.

7.1. Broadford Village Hall. Representatives from Broadford Village Hall Committee reported concerns voiced by clients/operators of the Mustard Seed Café which operates within Broadford Village Hall. The operators of the café /Broadford Hall Committee confirmed that they had not received any access complaints from clients and were satisfied with all arrangement in spite of complaints received and noted  by the Community Council at its last meeting. The Chair expressed concern and apologised for any upset caused. DM & NK confirmed that the plans for the proposed amendments to Broadford Village Hall car park (which had been viewed and commented on at the previous Community Council meeting) were currently with the architect prior to resubmission to the Planning Department and scrutiny by the Access Panel. The Community Council reiterated its position as outlined at the previous meeting and within subsequent correspondence that the Community Council has a responsibility to make comment on planning matters affecting communities and confirmed that there is a requirement for all public buildings to comply with current access legislation. The Community Council recommended the Broadford Village Hall Committee visit the SCVLO website and access the Community Toolkit section to fully appreciate access requirements for community buildings. The Community Council confirmed its support for the Broadford Village Hall Committee (in spite of recent difficulties/ misunderstandings) and recognised the hard work and dedication of all those seeking to improve a valuable local asset.

7.2. Planning Application Weekly lists stopped in March 2011. CG to pursue with Highland Council Planning Department.

7.3. Limepark Garden Project.

A meeting with the contractor took place on 4^th July. The contractor has stated that he will provide information requested by the Community Council in the next few days. Fiona Mandeville kindly provided information about the Skye Bridge Trust and suggested that the Community Council apply to the trust for additional funding towards the project. TM to action this.

8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 8^th August 2011 at 7.00pm in the Broadford Hotel and the AGM will be held at 8.30pm. Members of the public are very welcome to attend, however, it should be noted that Community Council meetings are official business meetings held in public rather than public meetings. If someone wishes to raise an item they should contact the secretary 14 days prior to a meeting so that it can be put on the agenda.

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 6th June 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 6^TH JUNE 2011

AT ELGOL VILLAGE HALL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson) (TM)

Karl Ross (Vice Chair) (KR)

Anita Jones (Treasurer) (AJ)

Caroline Gould (Secretary) (CG)

Denis Gould (DG)

Willie Inglis (WI).

Others:

Mairi Henderson (MH), Constables Cameron MacRae (CM)

and Julie Wood (JW) (Northern Constabulary).

Ian MacMillan (IM) and Dolac Mackinnon (DM)

(Chair and Vice Chair of Broadford Village Hall Association

respectively) arrived during point 4.8 of the meeting and

left immediately after point 7.1.

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

John Gillies.

2. Minute of Meeting of 2^nd May 2011.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved with no changes. Proposed by KR. Seconded by AJ.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. AJ sent an email to Anne MacLeod, Archivist for Highland Council, regarding possible records held by Community Council members which are no longer required for administrative use but which may have an archival value. AJ and CG to action.

3.2. Broadford village flower tubs are to be planted this week by Ron Johnstone.

3.3. Overgrown vegetation at the gateway at the eastern entrance to Broadford on the A87 has been cleared.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Highland Small Communities Trust notification of a conference about Housing and People: The Future of Rural Communities to be held in Aviemore on 9^th and 10^th June 2011.

4.2. Email from Scottish Water regarding a community meeting about a pipeline for water to be installed between Broadford and Elgol. The meeting will hopefully be held in Elgol at a date yet to be arranged.

4.3. A copy of letter sent by the John Muir trust to John Laing regarding the proposed closure of Elgol Public Toilets and the impact it may have on the area was read out at the meeting.

4.4. Letter from Highland Council regarding the proposed wording of the iconic view panel in Elgol to enhance the visitors' experience of the view. Tony Moore to respond.

4.5. Notification of Community Council Scheme Training Session at Kyleakin Community Hall on 15^th June 2011. TM, KR, DG and CG to attend.

4.6. Highland Funding information. AJ highlighted War Memorial Trust conservation grant. AJ will look into possible funding availability.

4.7. Letter from Skye and Lochalsh Council for Voluntary Organisations requesting an update of Community Council details. AJ to action.

4.8. NHS Staywell project posters for display. These will be displayed throughout the area.

4.9. Letter of concern regarding an NHS issue.

5. Limepark Garden Project.

The proposed meeting with the contractor has not yet taken place. It is hoped it will take place soon.

6. Patient Participation Group (PPG).

An inaugural meeting of interested parties took place to look into the possibility of forming a Patient Participation Group at Broadford Medical Practice. There will be another meeting to form the PPG on Thursday 23^rd June 2011 at a venue yet to be announced. Anyone interested in participating in this meeting should contact Liz Dobson, the Practice Manager on 01471 822460.

7. A.O.C.B.

7.1. IM and DM introduced proposed changes to the plans for Broadford Village Hall Car Park, looking for the Community Council's support (which had previously been given in July 2010 for the original plan. In July 2010, the Community Council suggested that in order to maximise the potential of this excellent community asset, that the Hall Committee take account of the need to promote a fair and more equal society and make such reasonable adjustments in the provision of facilities as necessary.) IM explained the work that had taken place since last year and stated that the alterations now proposed were to take the internal car park retaining wall away as well as the proposed disabled ramp access on the eastern approach to the car park to allow increased space and to save money. IM showed the initial plan which had been submitted to the Planning Department, and approved, with the addition of a tracing paper overlay indicating in marker pen the newly proposed changes. IM stated that it was proposed that the disabled access approach from the east would be removed and access would now be via the vehicular access to the car park. The other disabled ramp access from the western approach to the car park, originally proposed, would be kept as part of the plans. The Community Council raised some concerns, asked a number of questions and, following discussion, advised that the altered plans be brought in front of the Skye and Lochalsh Access Panel for their advice regarding accessibility which would be compliant with the Equality Act which came into force in October 2010. IM said they would pass this on to the architect. The Community Council stated that they were aware money was limited and therefore they were trying to ensure things are done in a way in which money raised for the project is used wisely to achieve what is required under the law and to enable access and equality of opportunity for all rather than requiring additional expensive alterations at a later date.

7.2. MH asked about getting a dog waste bin at the pier in Elgol.

7.3. CM and JW updated the Community Council with regard to local police issues and answered questions from the Community Council on a number of subjects of interest.

7.4. CG gave a brief report from the Skye and Lochalsh NHS Reference Group meeting on 6^th June 2011. The proposed NHS drop-in sessions planned for Kyleakin and Portree on 20^th and 22^nd June have been postponed until the autumn.

8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 4^th July 2011 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend, however, it should be noted that Community Council meetings are official meetings held in public rather than public meetings.

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 2nd May 2011

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 2^ND MAY 2011

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson) (TM)

Karl Ross (Vice Chair) (KR)

Anita Jones (Treasurer) (AJ)

Caroline Gould (Secretary) (CG)

Denis Gould (DG)

John Gillies (JG).

Others:

Sergeant Richard Baird (Northern Constabulary) (RB),

Alistair McPherson (Broadford Community Company) (AP).

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Willie Inglis (WI).

2. Minute of Meeting of 4^th April 2011.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by AJ. Seconded by DG.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. CG met with Sue Egerton of the Friends of Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital to discuss problems for patients and relatives which have been brought to the attention of the Community Council. Sue Egerton sent the Community Council a letter regarding the concerns raised.

3.2. DG liaised with the police and Highland Council in order to arrange locations for the alcohol bye-law signs to be erected in Broadford and Harrapool. This has now been done.

3.3. DG and CG received notices regarding the closure of Broadford Police Station and the counter service to be provided at Broadford Service Point from Northern Constabulary for distribution within the South Skye area. CG distributed these to Sleat and to Kyleakin and Kylerhea Community Councils and distributed them to members of the Community Council for distribution within Broadford and Strath.

3.4. Civic Recognition Awards - Heidi Hoffman who was identified by the Community Council - will receive an award in the Environment Category at the Ward Forum Meeting on 9^th May 2011.

3.5. Beach clean up has taken place in Torrin. Although there was no community skip provided, Highland Council appears to have removed the rubbish.

3.6. Additional copies of the Community Council Scheme have still not arrived. CG to chase them up again.

3.7. Meeting about Limepark Garden, which was due to take place on 18^th April, had to be postponed because the venue had been double booked. The meeting was rearranged for 28^th April but the team representing the contractor postponed that. Another date for the meeting is to be arranged preferably in late May or early June.

3.8. George Speed still to meet with WI and AJ regarding cemeteries in the area.

3.9. Elgol public toilet closure. A meeting took place in Elgol and Highland Council have agreed to keep the toilets open until October to allow the community to arrange management of the facilities after that under the Highland Comfort Scheme. The meeting requested information regarding the costs of running the facility and this is due to be sent to TM.

3.10. KR attended the meeting regarding acquiring and developing community assets. He requested information but has not yet received it.

3.11. Northern Constabulary provided notices regarding the closure of Broadford Police Station and the provision of a counter service provision at Broadford Service Point. These have been circulated and displayed throughout South Skye.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from Friends of Dr Mackinnon Memorial Hospital.

4.2. Consultation on Highland Council and Northern Constabulary Antisocial Behaviour Strategy 2011-2016. Comments on the proposed strategy can be made at http://www.highland.gov.uk/livinghere/housing/ .

4.3. Letter from Anne MacLeod, Archivist for Highland Council, requesting if the Community Council know of any records held by Community Council members which are no longer required for administrative use but which may have an archival value. Anita Jones and Caroline Gould to action.

4.4. Letter from Signs & Designs of Lybster, Caithness regarding their range of Caithness stone products.

4.5. Notification that Heidi Hoffmann will receive a Civic Recognition Award.

5. Broadford Medical Practice Design Team

CG attended a meeting on 20^th April. The tender documents have gone out and work will hopefully start mid to late June. It will be a 42 week project which is due to finish at the end of March 2012. The archaeologist undertaking the survey is Steven Birch and this will be done as work begins on site. The proposed building will have an energy rating of B+ though this may be further improved as work continues.

6. Well North Project Grant.

Interested parties can apply to the Well North Project for a small grant (up to £2,000) to fund an action, an event, equipment or training which can help improve the health and wellbeing of local people. Applications can be submitted to Sarah Bowyer at Lochalsh Health Centre, Kyle of Lochalsh, email: or telephone (01599) 530945. Closing date for applications is 9^th May 2011. JG to notify Broadford Youth Club of this.

7. Village Tubs.

The large tub outside the Serpentarium has been moved. Fresh compost has been put in the other tubs and Ron Johnston is due to plant them up soon.

8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. AP explained that Broadford Community Company is to take over responsibility for Callum Robertson's Memorial field. He also asked the Community Council's views regarding a number of suggestions made by local people.

8.2. CG raised the subject of gorse and vegetation obscuring the stone gateway at the east end of Broadford. AP volunteered to help resolve this.

8.3. RB updated the Community Council with regard to local police issues.

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 6^th June 2011 at 7.30pm in Elgol Village Hall. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 4th April 2011

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 4^TH APRIL 2011

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

John Gillies.

Others:

Gillian McCallum, Susan O'Donnell, Sarah Bowyer,

Inspector Duncan MacLean (Northern Constabulary),

Sergeant Susan Hunter (Northern Constabulary),

Hamish Fraser (Local Councillor).

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Karl Ross (Vice Chair).

2. Minute of Meeting of 7^th March 2011.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Willie Inglis. Seconded by Denis Gould.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Sue Egerton of the Friends of Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital emailed Tony Moore regarding the reclining chair in the day room and the relatives room at the hospital. Following discussion it was agreed that Caroline Gould contact Sue to discuss problems for patients and relatives which have been brought to the attention of the Community Council.

3.2. Civic Recognition Awards. The Community Council has nominated Heidi Hoffman.

3.3. Anita Jones wrote to the Waste Management Officer about the Community Council's concerns about the removal of the community skips. The response stated that community skips would still be available for beach clean ups.

3.4. Council grit bins. Due to the current financial situation there will be no additional grit bins provided.

3.5. Lack of safety barrier on Elgol Road between Strathaird and Faolin at the forestry section. Highland Council's priority is to deal with the existing barriers on old wooden posts before dealing with any new barrier provision.

3.6. Water on road outside Fairwinds, Broadford. This is scheduled for a section resurfacing during the new financial year.

3.7. Section of Elgol Road with no verge and deep ditch. Highland Council is aware of the problem and will endeavour to resolve this soon.

3.8. George Speed to speak to Willie Inglis and Anita Jones regarding cemeteries in the area.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Email from Friends of Dr Mackinnon Memorial Hospital.

4.2. Newsletter from Lochalsh and Skye Housing Association.

4.3. Letter from Northern Constabulary.

4.4. Notification that the Cuillins are a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

4.5. Letter regarding new Community Council Scheme. Caroline Gould has requested additional copies in order that every Community Council member has a copy of the scheme.

4.6. Northern Constabulary consultation available online at

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2011/02/10120102/9.

4.7. Letter from Skye & Lochalsh Environment Forum about Balmacara Biodiversity Day (and local producers' market) on 21^st May 2011 from 11am to 4.00pm at Balmacara Square.

5. Northern Constabulary.

Inspector MacLean apologised that the Community Council had not had police representation at meetings for the past couple of years. He explained the consultation process regarding the possible national police force, which comes to an end in May 2011, and explained about the closure of Broadford Police Station, the counter service which is available from Broadford Service Point, and answered questions from the Community Council. Northern Constabulary will send a notice regarding the Service Point counter service to the Community Council for circulation within the community. The Community Council minutes are to be emailed to Sergeant Hunter and copied to Inspector MacLean. Sergeant Hunter reported several incidents and issues from the start of the year. Northern Constabulary would encourage the Community Council to communicate any issues of concern.

6. Limepark Garden.

A meeting has been arranged with the contractor on Monday 18^th April 2011.

7. Toilet Closures.

The decision to close the Elgol public toilets run by Highland Council will not be reversed, however, following the community concern regarding this, there will be a meeting in Elgol to look into what other options may be available to retain these facilities. The estimated number of users of this facility is between 30,000 and 40,000 per year.

8. Acquiring and Developing Community Assets.

Karl Ross to report on this at the next meeting.

9. A.O.C.B.

9.1. Sarah Bowyer reported that, as a result of the Well North Project there were now walk leaders trained and they are still looking for others to train. The intention is to lead small half hour walks to enable people to get back into regular exercise.

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 2^nd May 2011 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 7th March 2011

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 7^TH MARCH 2011

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Karl Ross (Vice Chair)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

John Gillies.

2. Minute of Meeting of 7th February 2011.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved with one name change. Proposed by Anita Jones. Seconded by Karl Ross.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Tony Moore has approached the Friends of MacKinnon Memorial Hospital to ask if they might consider compiling a register of volunteers willing to offer overnight accommodation to relatives of patients at the hospital who live some distance away. They will discuss this at a future meeting and get back to the Community Council.

3.2. Tony Moore emailed concerns regarding the bus tender consultation and Karl Ross attended the open meeting.

3.3. Tony Moore booked a place at the Networking Lunch on Acquiring and Developing Community Assets to be held on Thursday 10 March 2011 in Broadford Village Hall. Karl Ross to attend.

3.4. Anita Jones reported that she had spoken with Ron Johnson regarding the flower tubs. Anita and Tony Moore will attend to the tub outside the Serpentarium in the next month.

3.5. Denis Gould reported that he had spoken to Alan Duffield regarding comments about lack of lighting and the slippery surface on the new pedestrian bridge.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from Alzheimer Scotland advising of a current two year research project. The aim of the project is to improve the support and information provision for carers of people with dementia in the Highland and Argyl and Bute areas. Anyone who would like to take part in the project or to obtain further details should contact Lynne O'Donnell on 01463 711707 or by email on .

4.2. Notification of an event on 31^st March 2011 at MacDonald Resort, Aviemore: Housing and People - the future of rural Communities.

4.3. Letter from Liz Dobson, PMS Practice Manager regarding the setting up of a Patient Participation Group. Following discussion Tony Moore will respond with our suggestions.

4.4. The Crown Estate Bulletin.

4.5. Journal of the Association of Scottish Community Councils - Autumn 2010 and Spring 2011 issues.

4.6. Email from the Community Heartbeat Trust offering to send information on providing defribrillators. Following discussion it was agreed to pass this information to other possible interested groups.

5. Ward 11 Business.

5.1. Ashaig Airstrip. The company providing blokarting sessions and lessons on Ashaig Airstrip are seeking permission to operate on Sundays. Following discussion, it was agreed Tony Moore should respond.

5.2. Civic Recognition Awards. Following discussion, the Community Council agreed to nominate Heidi Hoffmann for all her hard work on the Community Garden in Broadford.

5.3. Community Skip provision. This service will end from Friday 1^st April 2011. Following discussion, it was agreed that Anita Jones would respond.

5.4. Consultation on Community Council Boundaries. This is coming to an end and Community Council elections will take place in November. Following discussion it was agreed that Tony Moore responds to Jan Laing with the views of the Community Council.

6. NHS Highland.

6.1. Broadford Medical Practice Design Team. A meeting took place on 23^rd February 2011 and this project is to go ahead as planned. The next meeting will be in April.

6.2. NHS Reference Group Meeting. This group met on 7^th March 2011. Of particular interest was the 2 year Telehealth pilot being undertaken in Skye: http://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk/News/Pages/Skyepatientstobenefitfromtelehealthproject.aspx

as a result of the Reference Group prioritisation. Also discussed were the NHS Highland financial situation, recent improvements at Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital, and the Reference Group Action Plan. It was felt that this was a much more positive meeting.

7. Limepark Garden.

There has been no date yet set for the proposed meeting with the contractor. Other interested parties have shown willingness and availability to attend.

8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. Community Assets Networking lunch. 12 to 3 pm on 10^th March in Broadford Hall.

8.2. Kilmaree Graveyard. Tony Moore emailed TEC Services about the problem of a fallen tree which will be dealt with as soon as possible.

8.3. Broadford Public Toilets. Complaints have been received regarding the shutting of these toilets as a result of frozen pipes. Concern was expressed regarding rumours of toilet closures due to happen. Willie Inglis to action.

8.4. Broadford Police Station closure and its effects. Following discussion it was agreed to write to Northern Constabulary regarding a number of issues of concern. Tony Moore to action.
8.5. Green Dog Walkers Scheme. This is a community led initiative to combat dog fouling in Highland. Details can be found at http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/animalsandpestcontrol/greendogwalkers.htm

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 4^th April 2011 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 7th February 2011

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 7^TH FEBRUARY 2011

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Karl Ross (Vice Chair)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

 

Others in Attendance:

Martin Groenendijk and Barbara Groenendijk (both left after discussing point 9.1).

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

John Gillies.

2. Minute of Meeting of 6^th December 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Karl Ross. Seconded by Denis Gould.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Marie Noble has formally tendered her resignation from the Community Council. The Community Council thanked her for her hard work and enthusiasm over the years.

3.2. Christmas Tree and Lights. Members of the Community Council have removed the Broadford village Christmas tree lights and disposed of the tree. It was agreed to send an email to Robbie Milne of Highland Council's Fort William Lighting Department to thank him and his team for their help in connecting the electricity supply for the Christmas tree lights. Caroline Gould to action.

3.2. It was agreed to approach the Friends of MacKinnon Memorial Hospital to ask if they might consider compiling a register of volunteers willing to offer overnight accommodation to relatives of patients at the hospital who live some distance away. Tony Moore to action.

3.3. Willie Inglis to contact TEC services regarding a number of issues: alcohol bye-law signs; steep drop sections of the Elgol Road without barriers; missing grit bins; pedestrian crossing; etc.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from the Stornoway Coastguard regarding the consultation which can be accessed at http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga07-home/shipsandcargoes/consultations/mcga-currentconsultations/hm_coastguard_proposals_for_modernisation_consultation_2010.htm .

4.2. Letter from Donald Kennedy regarding the application (path between Glasnakille and Elgol) to the Highland Core Path Improvement Programme. The application has been deferred to the next assessment meeting in February 2011, however, it is hoped that it may be achieved within the second or third year of the scheme.

4.3. Lochalsh and Skye Housing Association Energy Advice Centre - letter thanking the Community Council for their endorsement and their wish to establish a local committee which will meet three times a year. Karl Ross to attend.

4.4. Skye Community Council network email. The network has been agreed and established.

5. Ward 11 Business.

5.1. Review of Community Councils - third phase. Proposed boundary amendments.

5.2. Computer recycling scheme. Highland Council has entered into a contract with Fujitsu to replace its computer equipment over a 5 year period. As part of this both organisations wish to benefit the local community by distributing 7000 PC units over the lifetime of the project through a recycling partnership with ReBOOT. ReBOOT is a computer recycling social enterprise based in Moray and a registered charity. Fujitsu are funding ReBOOT to provide this service and ReBOOT in turn will provide a range of training opportunities for different groups. ReBOOT are establishing a facility in Inverness to carry out this service.  It is proposed that the refurbished machines should be available to voluntary and community based organisations operating in the Highland area.  This could include charities, social enterprises, community councils and clubs or groups such as Scout or Guide groups. Should any organisation wish to be considered for one of the refurbished computers, they should complete a short survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/JDP9VYR or by contacting the Policy Team on 01463 702006. The closing date for responses is Friday 25^th February.

5.3. Transport Scotland. Transport Scotland are encouraging members of the public to report potholes, or any defects, on trunk roads to the Trunk Road Customer Care number 0800 028 1414

5.4. Ward Business Bulletin. In the future, a Ward Business Bulletin will be posted on a regular basis on the Ward 11 web page at http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourcouncil/yourward/ward11/ .

5.5. TEC Services appointment. Billy Nicolson is now Acting Community Works Officer within the Roads & Community Works team in TEC Services Portree Office. He will work alongside George Speed and provide the point of contact for our service with the local community. George will continue to cover the geographical area South of Sconser, and Billy will cover Sconser and North including the Isle of Raasay. Both officers will share covering Portree issues as has been the position for some time now, and they will also provide cover for annual leave or office absence for each other. Mark Crowe is temporarily covering the Area Manager's duties which requires commitment to Mid and West Ross, the Black Isle and Lochaber, so the Community Council's first point of contact should be via the Community Works Officers.

5.6. Bus Tenders/Consultation. Tony Moore to respond.

6. NHS Highland.

6.1. Broadford Medical Practice Design Team. The meeting planned for January has been postponed until late February in order that decisions due to be made in late February, by the Scottish Government, will be known by then. Concern was expressed regarding the £20M clawback by the Scottish Government and the resignation of Dr Nancy Burge, the vice chair of the Skye and Lochalsh Reference Group.

7. Limepark Garden.

The Community Council discussed this project and associated paperwork and came to a conclusion regarding necessary action. Tony Moore to action.

8. Scottish Water.

A recent article in the West Highland Free Press stated that cancer causing compounds had been found in water in a number of areas, including Elgol. Elgol residents asked the Community Council to contact Scottish Water regarding the matter. Tony Moore actioned this. Scottish Water is planning and taking action to alleviate local concern.

9. A.O.C.B.

9.1. Problem with travellers at Lusa. Martin and Barbara Groenendijk highlighted a problem on their land at Lusa. Travellers appear to have broken through the Groenendijk's fence and seem to be using their land for burning items to obtain copper and as a dump. The travellers are not actually camping on their land. The Community Council advised the Mr and Mrs Groenendijk to contact Highland Council regarding the matter and gave them the necessary contact details.

9.2. Donation from Whist Drive. Denis Gould reported a donation of £120 from Seonaid Nicolson from a whist drive before Christmas. Tony Moore to send a letter of thanks.

9.3. Networking Lunch on Acquiring and Developing Community Assets. To be held on
Thursday 10 March 2011 in Broadford Village Hall from 12 - 3pm. This is an opportunity for anyone involved in community assets such as buildings, renewables, woodlands or community projects seeking funding and find out how others have done it. Speakers include Paul Davies, from Strathnairn Community who successfully secured funding from their local windfarm and the Eilean Bàn Trust who run a successful visitor centre promoting the local area and heritage. People wanting to attend should contact or call 01463 715533. Tony to action booking a place for a member of the Community Council.

9.4. Ward Forum Meeting. The next Broadford Ward Forum meeting will be on Monday 9^th May 2011.

9.5. Flooding on the Elgol Road at Broadford. This continues to be a problem. It was agreed to contact TEC Services again. Willie Inglis to action this and the other issues at 3.3.

9.6. Planning application. A planning application has been submitted for a market on the site between Dunollie Hotel and the Co-operative store in Broadford.

9.7. Millennium Bridge, Broadford. Complaints have been raised regarding the lack of lighting on the bridge and the fact that when icy, the walkway becomes very slippy. It was agreed to contact Alan Duffield regarding this. Denis Gould to action.

9.8. Large planter outside Serpentarium. It was agreed to contact Ron Johnson regarding this. Anita Jones to action.

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 7^th March 2011 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 6th December 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 6^TH DECEMBER 2010

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Karl Ross (Vice Chair)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

John Gillies

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Tony Moore (Chairperson), Marie Noble (Secretary), Anita Jones (Treasurer) and Willie Inglis.

2. Minute of Meeting of 11^th October 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by John Gillies. Seconded by Denis Gould.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Christmas Tree and Lights. The Christmas tree has been erected and dressed with the Christmas lights and Highland Council has now connected the lights to an electricity supply.

3.2. Problems with payphones in Broadford. The payphones now appear to be working again.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Friends of Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital. Letter from the Friends of the hospital thanking us for our recent donation.

4.2. The Church of Scotland Circle of Care Christmas Lunch. Letter from the Church of Scotland Circle of Care thanking us for our recent donation.

5. Highland Council Review of Community Councils. To be discussed at a future meeting.

6. ASCC Survey. To be discussed at a future meeting.

7. NHS Highland.

7.1. Broadford Medical Practice Design Team met on Wednesday 24^th November 2010. It would appear that the earliest building work will begin on site will be April 2011 as there is a rigorous tendering procedure to be followed. This would mean that the earliest opening date for the new medical centre would be around late January 2012.

7.2. Skye & Lochalsh Salaried Practices Meeting. Angus Venters is to replace Helen Johnson as GP covering 2 ½ days per week at Broadford medical practice. Liz Dobson is the newly appointed Practice Manager to cover Carbost, Glenelg, Broadford and Sleat medical practices.

7.3. Broadford/Sleat Collaborative Working Group. This group met in November. There are to be no more meetings of this group.

8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. Given the need for people at the north end of the island to travel more frequently to hospital in Broadford and having been made are recently of problems some people are having staying close to relatives who are inpatients at Broadford, Caroline Gould suggested that the Community Council might look at setting up a register of volunteers willing to offer a bed in their home to relatives of patients in Broadford Hospital who live some distance away. It was agreed to discuss this at the next meeting.

8.2. A member of the public has complained that the Council yard no longer permits general members of the public to obtain grit for local road problem areas and has asked if the Community Council can do anything to help. Following discussion it was agreed that last year Highland Council had made the decision to stop this practice as the salt and grit was required by the gritters. If the current cold snap continues then the Community Council may approach the Council to discuss particular areas of issue regarding this.

8.3. There has been a complaint about sections of the Elgol Road which have a steep drop at the side but which do not have barriers. It was agreed to speak to TEC Services about this.

8.4. The need for a pedestrian crossing near Broadford Primary school/ The Co-operative supermarket was discussed. It was agreed to chase this up with Highland Council.

8.5. Alcohol byelaw signs. These signs have still not been erected. It was agreed that the Community Council needs to chase this up.

8.6. A member of the public has highlighted the huge differences between the costs of Stagecoach buses and Scottish Citylink buses for local trips. The Community Council discussed this problem and agreed that it should be addressed.

9. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 7^th February 2011 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting on Monday 1st November 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 1^st NOVEMBER 2010

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

 

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary - Marie left the meeting

                            shortly after it had started.)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

Karl Ross

John Gillies

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Anita Jones (Treasurer).

2. Minute of Meeting of 11^th October 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Karl Ross. Seconded by Tony Moore.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Christmas Tree and Lights. The trunk of last year's Christmas tree has been removed. Thanks go to John MacRae for his help in achieving this. Caroline Gould reported that she had spoken to Robbie Milne in the Highland Council Lighting Department in Fort William as to when his team will be on Skye. This year's Christmas tree will need to be on site by Wednesday 24^th November at the latest. Tony Moore will arrange this through the John Muir Trust. Denis Gould has arranged for the Fire Service to erect the tree on the evening of Wednesday 24^th November. The Christmas lights will have to be put on the tree before the beginning of December to facilitate connection to the electricity supply by Robbie Milne's team. Tony Moore, Denis Gould and Caroline Gould to action.

3.2. Highland Council Quality Awards 2010. Marie Noble confirmed that the nomination for Mark Crowe and his TEC Services team has been submitted.

3.3. Elgol Defibrillator. Tony Moore reported that training was to begin on 2^nd November 2010.

3.4. Report of problems with dog mess on Heaste Road. Marie Noble has written to Highland Council regarding this issue.

3.5. Problems with payphones in Broadford. Denis Gould explained that he had checked the payphones and reported the faults the day after the last meeting. A number of the payphones need to be emptied of coins in order to resolve the problems and this is no longer undertaken by BT. BT have subcontracted it to Group 4. The problems have still not been resolved so Denis Gould has reported them again. It is hoped that the problems will be resolved soon. Denis Gould to keep an eye on this problem.

3.6 Daffodil bulbs from old village flower tubs. Anita Jones and Tony Moore have planted the remaining bulbs between the Community Garden and the Millenium Bridge.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Friends of Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital. Letter from the secretary of the Friends of the hospital asking for a donation towards new adjustable MRSA compliant patient chairs (to cost £3,900) and new curtains and curtain tracks for the hospital (to cost £4,300). Following discussion regarding the current strain upon our finances, it was agreed to donate £150.

4.2. Energy Saving Trust. Notification from Mhairi MacSween of the Energy Saving Advice Centre in Inverness of the new Universal Home Insulation Scheme coming to the Isle of Skye. It is an area-based initiative that is being delivered by the Energy Saving Scotland Advice Centre and Eaga on behalf of Highland Council. The scheme is Scottish Government funded and will offer free energy efficiency advice and measures to households in designated areas of Scotland. For particularly vulnerable residents then the energy Saving Scotland advice centre can establish a referral process that will fully support applications to the Energy Assistance Package. This is a time limited offer. For more information on this scheme people can contact Alan Grant, Outreach Engagement Officer on 0800 512 012 or email him at or Mhairi MacSween, Outreach Engagement Officer on 0800 512 012 or email her at .

4.3. Skye & Lochalsh Housing Association. Annual Report.

4.4. Email from Jan Laing about a meeting to be arranged to discuss the setting up of a Skye Association of Community Councils. The email suggested some possible dates for the meeting, to be held in Portree. Tony Moore to action.

4.5. Limepark Garden Project. A letter regarding this project suggesting previously unknown information which will be investigated.

4.6. The Church of Scotland Circle of Care Christmas Lunch. A letter requesting a donation towards the cost of a Christmas lunch for pensioners in the Broadford and Strath area. Following discussion regarding the current strain upon our finances, it was agreed to donate £150 to this cause.

4.7. Email regarding problem with dog mess on marble line path above Broadford and requesting that the Community Council write to Highland Council to ask if a dog excrement bin can be fitted in this area. Marie Noble to action.

5. Ward Forum Meeting.

Caroline Gould attended the Eilean a' Cheo Ward Forum Meeting which took place on 25^th October 2010 in Tigh na Sgire, Portree. Of those attending, only 6 Community Councils were represented which was very disappointing considering all Community Councils present understood it to be the Ward Forum meeting dedicated to Community Councils. However, somehow that had changed and it was an ordinary Ward Forum meeting but it appeared not all Community Councils were aware of this prior to attending. Tim Stott, Principal Planner at Highland Council gave a short presentation on the Highland Wide Development Plan. During his presentation, Tim Stott congratulated the Skye Community Councils for their overwhelming response to the draft development plan. Apparently Skye, Lochaber and Wester Ross all requested more west coast balance in the development plan because the west coast has different circumstances than the east coast. The current stage is the Proposed Plan which can be viewed at Highland Council Libraries or on Highland Council's website. A consultation is running from 24th September 2010 to 3rd December 2010. Steve Varwell, chair of the Skye Local Action Partnership gave an update on the LEADER Programme. LEADER is part of the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP), aimed at promoting economic and community development within rural areas. Resources are targeted at those rural areas identified as most in need, based on basic qualifying criteria such as sparsity of population, but importantly addressing issues such as ageing population, rural depopulation and job losses.  The basic principles of LEADER are: local involvement, community benefit, equal opportunities, innovation, sustainable development, sharing lessons learned and working with other areas. Before submitting an application you must either speak with the LEADER Local Development Officer or submit an enquiry form about your project. If you have submitted an enquiry form please do not start on your full application until the local Development Officer gets back to you with comments or advice. For Skye the Local Development Officer is Liz Whiteford (Dingwall & Seaforth, Black Isle, Wester Ross, Strathpeffer, Lochalsh and Skye) Invergordon Service Point, 62 High Street, Invergordon, IV18 0DH Tel - 07920 543719 Email - .

Also at the Ward Forum meeting it was announced that Broadford and Portree would be the first areas on Skye to get higher speed broadband as a result of the government announcement two weeks ago that certain parts of the country were to be prioritised. It is hoped that, by means of cabinets, other outlying areas will follow.

It was also agreed that Jan Laing would arrange a separate meeting to discuss the detail of forming a Community Council Association on Skye. She has sent an email suggesting possible dates and once everyone has advised her if the meeting should be held during the day or evening she will confirm the meeting arrangements.

6. NHS Highland.

6.1. Broadford Medical Practice Design Team met on Wednesday 27^th October 2010. It is hoped that an advert for going out to tender will be formulated by the end of this week. The road is to be widened to 5.5 metres up to the passing place. The road surface will be removed and relaid. It is hoped to get a package together for the road works, ideally, before Christmas. This package will also include the necessary cut and fill on site to act as hard standing for the building site office and car park. As part of that contract the heating ground loop will also be put in (under the proposed medical centre car park). It has been decided that the heating will be by ground source heat pump as, in terms of efficiency, this has proven to be the best (air source efficiency tails off from 6 degrees centigrade and below). The proposed water system will remove any future threat of Legionnaire's Disease. As a result of the proximity of the nearby cairn and other local archaeological finds, an archaeological survey will be required. It is hoped that the archaeological work can be done at the same time as the road work so there will be diggers on site if they are required. Providing nothing of any archaeological significance is found, it is hoped that work will begin early in 2011. The next meeting of this group will be on Wednesday 24^th October 2010.

6.2. Skye & Lochalsh Salaried Practices Meeting.

Caroline Gould circulated an invitation to all 5 Skye & Lochalsh Community Councils covering the four Skye and Lochalsh salaried practices catchment areas, which had been sent directly to Jan Laing by Alison Phimister of NHS Highland. Jan Laing does not cover Lochalsh but was apparently expected to circulate this to Glenelg and Arnisdale Community Council. It was noted that no invitations from NHS Highland went directly to the five Community Councils involved.

6.3. Well North Project.

Caroline Gould attended a meeting of this project on Wednesday 20^th October 2010 at Kyleakin Community Hall. This is a two year NHS anticipatory care project focusing on food access and activity to help people manage wellbeing and physical health particularly healthy weight. Healthy Weight Well North aims to take a whole GP practice and community development approach to adult weight management, by both the promotion of wellbeing and prevention of problems. Sustainable actions need to be designed and facilitated throughout the duration of the project so that after the project everything that has been set up will continue. Four medical practices are taking part (Kyle, Glenelg, Broadford and Sleat) and each is concentrating on a different aspect. For Broadford this is safe and easy access for cycling and walking in South Skye. There were presentations from Mark Crowe and from Donald Kennedy regarding provision of core paths, footpaths, etc. Paths for All and Step It Up Highland are also involved and are to train walk leaders and will aim to target suitable 30 minute walks for people wanting to get back into exercise gently.

7. A.O.C.B.

7.1. Skye & Lochalsh Housing Association refurbishment work at Cul A Chuirn, Broadford. The Community Council has been made aware of a degree of dissatisfaction of residents regarding ongoing work by a series of contractors at Cul A Chuirn, Broadford. Following discussion, it was agreed to maintain a watching brief.

7.2. Well North Project. A member of this project asked if the Community Council could suggest any community areas in Broadford suitable for growing herbs or vegetables. Following discussion it was agreed that the Community Council could not suggest any areas suitable for this in Broadford.

7.3. Eilean A' Cheo Ward Forum meeting dates for 2011 were discussed.

8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 6^th December 2010 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of EGM on Monday 11th October 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF EGM HELD ON MONDAY 11^TH OCTOBER  2010

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

Karl Ross

Also in attendance:

Mary Sangster.

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

John Gillies.

2. Minute of Meeting of 6^th September 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved with the addition of six words. Proposed by Denis Gould. Seconded by Willie Inglis.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Christmas Tree and Lights. Caroline Gould will contact Robbie Milne in the Highland Council Lighting Department in Fort William to try to ascertain when his team will be available to connect the Broadford Christmas Tree lights. The remains of the trunk of last year's Christmas tree are still in place despite several attempts to remove it. Further efforts will be made to ensure it is removed.

3.2. Highland Council Quality Awards 2010. Following discussion, it was agreed to nominate Mark Crowe, Community Works Manager, and his TEC Services team for this award.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from Melanie MacKinnon thanking Broadford & Strath Community Council for their donation towards the defibrillator for Elgol. Tony Moore reported that they had now reached their target and hoped to begin training people before the end of the month.

4.2. Letter from a resident of Broadford stating that some people coming out of the veterinary surgery are walking their dogs up the Heaste road but failing to clear up their dog mess and asking if it would be possible for Highland Council to arrange for a dog waste bin to be provided in this area. She also asked if the Community Council could write to Balfour Beattie congratulating them for their excellent work on their recent replacement of street lights in Broadford which was done very neatly and efficiently. It was agreed the Community Council would write to both Highland Council and to Balfour Beattie on these matters.

4.3. Letter from Dave Thompson MSP enclosing Highland Council's response regarding the Highland Council Budget Consultation.

4.4. Email from Glenelg and Arnisdale Community Trust enclosing a letter they had sent to Nicola Sturgeon regarding NHS issues in their area, in order to keep our community Council updated.

4.8. Emails from Roddy Murray of Sleat Community Council keeping our Community Council informed on a number of NHS issues.

5. Election of Vice Chair.

Willie Inglis proposed Karl Ross. This was seconded by several members and Karl accepted the post.

6. NHS Highland.

6.1. Reference Group. Tony Moore and Caroline Gould attended the Skye and Lochalsh Reference Group meeting on 13^th September 2010 in Portree Community Centre. Tony reported on a presentation of future population projections in Skye and Lochalsh, approval of a communications plan and discussions on the collaborative working of salaried Skye practices, unscheduled care, the Reference Group action plan, and bed spacing and infection control at Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital in Broadford.

6.2. Broadford Medical Practice. Caroline Gould attended a meeting of the Broadford Medical Practice Design Team was held on 29^th September 2010. Caroline reported that everyone was satisfied with the plans and they had been formally signed-off. A few technical changes are required but they will not affect the layout and do not have any cost implications. Following an Asset Management Group meeting, it had been confirmed that the necessary additional funding had been found for the project, however this is based on NHS Highland getting the Capital allocation they require for next year. It was noted that as much as possible should be spent this financial year, as any under spend might be lost. Planning Approval for the project was granted on 15^th September, and the Planning Officer had listed various conditions, which are mainly small details such as approving the materials used. Some archaeological work will need to be done, however the Planning Department have advised that this will only involve taking some photographs of the site. John Hornby, the architect, is to prepare a report regarding heating options for the next meeting which will be on Wednesday 27^th October 2010.

6.3. Broadford & Sleat Collaborative Working. Caroline Gould attended a meeting of this working group on Friday 24^th September 2010 in Lochalsh Health Centre in Kyle. It was reported that no additional computer hardware is required to enable remote computer access from Sleat to Broadford Medical Practice and vice versa. Price per PC (only those PCs which would require remote access) is £47 (licence for remote access) plus £30 (licence for DOCMAN - the document management software). Some costs for remote scanning may also be required using software from Microtech (£400 initially and thereafter an annual cost of £100). Viewing DOCMAN images held at another site will be slower than if they are held at the same site. Documents could be scanned at one or both sites.  The proposed new telephone system which would integrate with the hospital and the locality office is still to be priced. Angus Venters asked why the term collaborative working was being used when, as far as he was concerned, he had been working towards amalgamation for the last six years as a result of a decision predating the Mid Highland CHP. Kate Earnshaw appreciated his frustration but said that because of the sensitivities around the word amalgamation, it was agreed that a lot of the work actually being done was around collaborative working and working a lot more cohesively across the two sites so it was to be called collaborative working. She also stated that information regarding planned annual leave of GPs was required as far in advance as possible in order to see if the Rural Practitioners (RP) at the hospital could provide locum cover for GPs on holiday. One or two months notice is not sufficient from the hospital's perspective. Prescribing and dispensing issues, Human Resources issues, the efficient utilisation of Administrative and Clerical staff across both sites, and the results of capacity and demand analyses were also discussed.

6.4. Healthcare Environment Inspectorate (HEI) Mackinnon Working Group. Caroline Gould attended the first meeting of this working group on Friday 24^th September 2010, representing the Community Councils on Skye. The first hour of the meeting was taken up  discussing the lack of proper public engagement representation at the meeting. Councillor Fraser stated his objection that public engagement representatives not present at the meeting had simply not been given any opportunity to attend and said that this was unacceptable. Alison Phimister, NHS Locality Manager, stated that it was her responsibility to take forward an amount of work there that day and if it was not agreed within the group then it would be agreed outwith the group. She reiterated if it was not done here then it would be done elsewhere. Councillor Fraser said that such a statement concerned him. Although an agreed quorate was not present, the group decided that information regarding the work of the group should be discussed. It was explained that a paper presented to the Mid Highland CHP Governance Committee on 25^th June 2010 outlined the issues of bed spacing, single room provision and ensuite facilities at MacKinnon Memorial Hospital in Broadford. The existing conditions do not comply with the Scottish Government recommendations and represent a control infection risk. Following work on this subject four options had been put forward. In terms of clinical governance and best compliance with standards, the Governance Committee was asked to consider the preferred option of 16 beds and 3 day case beds. This option was agreed by the governance Committee. However, since then, further Scottish Government Guidelines in the form of CEL 27 (2010) Provision of Single Room Accommodation and Bed Spacing were issued on 20^th July 2010 http://www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/mels/CEL2010_27.pdf .

CEL 27 states that the current provision of single room accommodation is not sufficient across NHS Scotland and 100% single room provision is clinically appropriate in most clinical settings. Accordingly, the Chief Medical Officer has concluded that the guidance set out in CEL 48 (2008) http://www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/mels/CEL2008_48.pdf  that there should be a presumption of 100% single rooms in future hospital developments, is confirmed as the policy for NHS Scotland except for: existing accommodation which is being refurbished, where taking into account the constraints of the existing building, a minimum of 50% single room accommodation would be allowed but as close as possible to 100% as possible would be expected, and in new developments where there are clinical reasons for not making 100% single room provision they should be clearly identified and articulated in the appropriate Business Case. However, each case would be subject to Scottish Government agreement as part of the Business Case approval process.

Discussion took place around what type of information was required in order for the group to be able to make informed decisions. A plan of the proposed refurbishments to achieve 8 single ensuite rooms was discussed with concerns such as lack of Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliancy, the current situation regarding lack of disabled facilities for inpatients, room for movement of patients, portable hoists and other equipment. It was agreed that a mock up of a room be arranged in order to see if the proposals would be feasible or not. This was agreed. The next meeting of the group will be arranged once the agreed data analyses and the mock up room have been done (approximately 6 to 8 weeks time).

7. Community Council Forum Agenda.

Tony Moore reported that he had been advised by Jan Laing that the Ward Forum meeting on 25^th October 2010 was to be dedicated to Community Councils and she had requested items for the agenda. So far, items already on the agenda were: the Highland Wide Development Plan, the Broadband Project, the Skye Association of Community Councils Meeting Schedule for 2011, the Ward Discretionary Budget update, and a request for representation from the NHS. It had been proposed to invite someone from planning to this meeting but the local team leader is not available on that day. After discussion, no additional agenda items were suggested.

8. Highland Wide Local Development Plan.

Following feedback from the initial draft of the plan, adjustments have been made. The current stage is the Proposed Plan. A consultation is running from 24th September 2010 to 3rd December 2010. Further information can be found at http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/planning/developmentplans/localplans/HighlandWideLocalDevelopmentPlan.htm or in any Highland Council Library.

9. A.O.C.B.

9.1. Mary Sangster highlighted a problem with the coin payphones in Broadford being repeatedly out of order for months. This means that she cannot contact relatives. Some phones have dialling tones and some don't. Denis and Caroline Gould said they would check the telephones on Tuesday 12^th October and report any problems to BT as soon as possible.

9.2. Tony Moore read a letter he had written to Eoin Macleod regarding the Limepark Garden Project following the last Community Council meeting.

9.3. Willie Inglis reported that repairs have taken place at a local cattle grid that had been problematic.

9.4. Anita and John Jones have cleared the last of the bulbs from the old tubs. Some of the bulbs have been given to Stan Donaldson for the Community Garden and the rest are to be planted in the approach to the Millennium Bridge. Tony Moore and Anita Jones will start this work on Thursday 14^th October 2010.

9.5. It was agreed that there would be no Community Council meeting in January 2011.

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting will is scheduled for Monday 1^st November 2010 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of meeting on Monday 6th September 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 6^th SEPTEMBER  2010

AT ELGOL VILLAGE HALL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

Karl Ross

John Gillies

Also in attendance:

Pat Cottis (Highland Health Voices Network (HHVN) patient representative on Broadford/Sleat Amalgamation Working Group)

Hamish Fraser (Local Councillor)

Sarah Bowyer (NHS Well North Project)

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

None.

2. Minute of Meeting of 2^nd August 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Denis Gould. Seconded by Karl Ross.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Christmas Lights. Caroline Gould reported that she had still not been able to contact Robbie Milne in the Highland Council Lighting Department in Fort William. She will continue to try.

3.2. Letter of support for planning application for new Broadford Medical Practice. Tony Moore reported that he had sent this.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Highland Council Population Projections. Email from Jan Laing regarding Council Areas Population Projections 2008-2033. The information is available online at  http://www.highland.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/032B8A30-8A45-4950-9DE8-35B72D9A193E/0/Note38CouncilAreaPopulkationProjections2008.pdf .

4.2. New Energy Advice Centre. Letter from Lochalsh and Skye Housing Association regarding the launch of the new energy advice centre providing a free service to all residents of Skye, Lochalsh and Raasay. More information about this service can be found at http://www.lsha.co.uk/energyadviceservices/energyadvice.htm .It was felt that it might be useful to speak to Donnie Mackay or Moira Scobbie of the Lochalsh & Skye Energy Advice Centre to see if it would be possible to arrange a public drop-in session somewhere locally to enable local people to get advice and ask questions regarding this topic. Tony Moore to action.

4.3. Letter from Dafydd Jones, Area Planning and Building Standards Manager thanking Broadford and Strath Community Council for their letter of support for the new Broadford Medical Practice.

4.4. Letter from Alan Duffield thanking Broadford & Strath Community Council for their donation towards the Millennium Bridge project.

4.5. No Need for Nuclear House of Commons Early Day Motion No 557. A letter regarding the No Need for Nuclear campaign to prevent the building of new nuclear power stations. More information on this topic can be found at http://www.noneedfornuclear.org.uk/ .

4.6. The Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust (HSCHT). A letter enclosing HSCHT's first community newsletter and notification of their AGM on 24^th September 2010 at 12.30pm in Inverness Town Hall. More information can be found at http://www.hscht.co.uk/ .

4.7. Skye & Lochalsh Council for Voluntary Organisations (SLCVO). Notification of SLCVO's AGM on Tuesday 21^st September 2010 at 7.30pm in the Old Library, Bayfield Lane, Portree.

4.8. Highland Council Quality Awards 2010. Letter from Gordon Fyfe, Public Relations Manager. Nominations are being sought for Highland Council's Quality Awards. An individual or a service team can be nominated. The closing date for nominations is 24^th October 2010. It was agreed to discuss this at the next meeting.

4.9. Defibrillator for Elgol. (Tony Moore declared an interest at this point). Letter from Melanie MacKinnon on behalf of Elgol community fundraising group who are trying get a defibrillator for the village. The defibrillator is likely to cost between £1,500 and £1,700 pounds and there will also be the cost of training, upkeep and installation. Fundraising efforts so far have been successful but they have not yet reached their target. Melanie wrote to ask if Broadford and Strath Community Council would consider contributing towards this. After discussion, it was agreed that the Community Council would donate £200 towards this project.

4.10. Gala Lights. Email from Paul Goddard of Gala Lights based in Dalgety Bay, Fife,  regarding a new range of motifs which can be used either as column motifs or cross street decorations and are very energy efficient and very good value, the 1m motifs are £299, 2m are £399 and 3m are £499 + VAT. All of these can be hired as well (depending on quantity).

4.11. Well North Project. Minutes from last Well North Project meeting.

5. NHS Highland.

5.1. Reference Group Report. The Skye and Lochalsh Reference Group met on 21^st June 2010 in Broadford Hall. The membership of the group was confirmed and the role and remit was readdressed. The communications plan was also discussed. Tom Slavin gave a presentation before work began on developing the action plan. Summer workshops were then organised.

5.2. Action Plan Workshops. Caroline Gould attended the first Action Plan Workshop on Thursday 19^th August 2010 in the Lochalsh Health Centre in Kyle. The group was divided into two and each half covered one topic on the Action Plan. The two subjects covered that day were "Better Integration between Health and Local Authority" and "Hospitals Development". Tony Moore attended the second Action Plan Workshop on Thursday 2^nd September 2010 in the Locality Office in Broadford. The two subjects covered there were "NHS24 and unscheduled Care" and "Transport Issues". Two other Action Plan subjects will be dealt with by NHS staff before the next Reference Group meeting on 13^th September 2010

5.3. Broadford Medical Practice. Caroline Gould attended a meeting of the Broadford Medical Practice Design Team was held on 25^th August 2010. The Asset Management Group has agreed to the additional funding of £250,000 but this has still to be ratified by the NHS Highland Board. Caroline showed the Community Council the plans and explained that work is to take place on the High Road to improve the approach to the new medical centre. Two letters have been received by the Planning Department in support of the planning application, one from the Community Council. It is hoped that work will begin on site early in 2011 and should take approximately 9 months to complete. The next meeting of this group will be on Wednesday 29^th September 2010.

5.4. Joint Working Meeting/Practice Amalgamation. Pat Cottis, is the Highland Health Voices Network patient representative chosen by Kate Earnshaw of the NHS on the Broadford Sleat Medical Practice Amalgamation Working Group. Copies of the notes of the last meeting of this group, on 20^th August 2010, which Pat had kindly supplied, were circulated to members of the Community Council prior to the meeting. Mrs Cottis reported that Dr Helen Johnston is to leave at the end of November as she is going to New Zealand. Her post will be refilled. Dr Talloch, who is retiring early in 2011, will not be replaced. There was a problem, still to be resolved, regarding when one of the medical practices closes one afternoon a week as there is no cover for an hour. Further analyses of capacity and demand are also to be undertaken. Pat Cottis stated that she would be unable to attend the next meeting of this group on 17^th September 2010 but Caroline Gould said that she had received an email that day informing her that the meeting would not now be taking place on 17^th as so many people could not attend on that date. Caroline Gould will join the working group representing the Broadford & Strath Community Council at their next meeting, however, Sleat Community Council have still been denied access. A larger Skye & Lochalsh Salaried Practices Working Group, will include HHVN members representing Carbost and Glenelg as well as Pat Walsh representing Sleat medical practice and Pat Cottis representing Broadford medical practice and representatives of five Community Councils covering the catchment areas of the four medical practices involved. Following discussion, Pat Cottis was thanked for coming to the meeting to inform the Community Council. It was also agreed that Caroline Gould continue working closely with Sleat Community Council on NHS issues.

6. Ward Forum Working Group.

Caroline Gould attended this working group on 23^rd August 2010 in Portree. Following discussion it was agreed that, on the whole, the Ward Forum functions reasonably well but that the problems lay in the structure. Some issues, such as NHS issues, may possibly benefit from joint Ward Forum meetings with Ward 6 to properly cover Skye and Lochalsh. There is potential for exploring more effective promotion of the work and function of Community Councils to the wider public. It was felt that the forums should take place in two main venues: Portree and Broadford and, wherever possible, to explore the use of video-conferencing facilities in order to cut down on travel. In future, there should be fewer forum meetings and presentations should be limited to ten minutes. The system of inviting Community Councils (or other local organisations) to a local Ward Business meeting could be extended and a Skye Association of Community Councils needs to be formalised as soon as possible as this will help to strengthen the collective voice of the Skye Community Councils and could be the formal representative interface between a range of agencies on strategic issues.

7. Limepark Garden Project.

A meeting took place on 3^rd August 2010 with Tony Moore, Anita Jones and Karl Ross of the Community Council and Eoin MacLeod, the contractor, on this project. Prior to the last Community Council meeting, the contractor presented the Community Council with an unexpected and un-itemised interim bill for £6,500. Considerable debate and concern was expressed by the Community Council that the contractor appeared to have extended the garden way beyond the agreed initial plan drawn up and that he appeared to have installed far in excess of the agreed number of standing stones and the Community Council wanted clarification of the interim bill amongst other outstanding issues. At that meeting, members of the Community Council relayed the views of the Community Council as a whole. Of particular concern was the significant cost increase on the original estimate of £5,500 which had been tendered in 2007 and subsequently confirmed, and minuted, in the current Community Council's first meeting with Eoin MacLeod and Fiona Mandeville on 2^nd February 2009. The Community Council questioned the reason for the increase as stone for the project had already been sourced and subsequently paid for by Highland Council out of the £5,500 agreed in total for the project.

Eoin MacLeod suggested that agreement had been reached with members of the previous Community Council to purchase additional material, however, no records exist to confirm this arrangement and Eoin MacLeod and Fiona Mandeville (a member of the previous Community Council) made no mention of this when they first met with the current Community Council in February 2009. The representatives of the current Community Council made reference to the minute of that first meeting with Eoin MacLeod on 2^nd February 2009 when the original estimate was quoted as being £5,500 and stated that they would not be held responsible for any additional unauthorised purchases made or additional work undertaken. At the meeting on 3^rd August 2010, Eoin MacLeod advised an intention to make additional stone purchases. The Community Council strongly advised against this and suggested a creative compromise in order to complete the project within an acceptable timescale and budget. The Community Council representatives advised that it was most unlikely that substantial additional funding would become available against a background of budget constraints and reiterated the fact that the agreed total budget for the project was £5,500. The Community Council representatives stated that no payment would be made until the project had been completed and that, in the first instance, Eoin MacLeod should produce an itemised bill that reflected the estimate quoted at the 2^nd February 2009 (i.e. £5,500), included reference to the receipted amount of £1,874.12 paid by Highland Council for stone in 2007, reflected additional agreed costs for materials since 2009 (i.e. that should only contain the cost of the additional stone for the litter bin), and contain copies of acceptable, realistic, and verifiable cost receipts. It was asked that this bill be sent to the Treasurer, Anita Jones, for discussion at the next Community Council meeting in September 2010.

The Chairperson, Tony Moore, received an itemised bill from Eoin MacLeod last week and the Treasurer received one on 4^th September 2010. Both of these were read to the Community Council and discussed along with all the paperwork the Community Council now holds on the project. One of these itemised bills contained an estimate of £9,734 which included the purchase of additional stone, hire of hoist, hire of labourer, hire of excavator, a bill for various materials from Jewsons, a plant contractor's bill and the hire of a drill. The letter to Tony Moore, Chairperson, stated that Eoin MacLeod's "original ‘estimate' was based on the former council's own budget not my personal estimate".  It would appear that Eoin MacLeod believed that events and fundraising would raise the rest of the money required which he appears, until August 2010, never to have told any member of the Community Council. Neither does there appear to be any evidence that the previous Community Council agreed to holding any events or fundraising for this project, and as already stated, nor did Eoin MacLeod or Fiona Mandeville ever mention this at the initial meeting with the current Community Council in February 2009. Eoin MacLeod also stated in his letter of 25^th August 2010, to the Chairperson, that he "was literally donating some £5,000 to the project" and that "this may go some way to appeasing the good citizens of Limepark". Concern was expressed that Eoin MacLeod believed the work on the project to now total some £14,734 (an estimate of £9,734 plus £5,000). It would appear that Eoin MacLeod purchased additional stone without previously clearing this with the Community Council and that the project has now been extended well beyond what was ever discussed or agreed with Eoin MacLeod. Following discussion of the various matters relating to this project, it was agreed that the Chairperson, Tony Moore, write to Eoin MacLeod, with the full support of the Community Council and of Local Councillor, Hamish Fraser, stating that this was a fixed price project with a finite amount of finance available (i.e. £5,500) and that none of the remaining money from the agreed £5,500 for the project would be paid until the project has been brought to a satisfactory conclusion.

8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. Councillor Fraser asked if he could be put on the emailing list for the agenda and unapproved minutes prior to meetings. This was agreed.

8.2. Well North Project. Sarah Bowyer explained the background of the Well North Project which is a two year project (which has now been running for 8 months). It is hoped that related community activities will be advertised within medical centres. It was suggested that Sarah should send Caroline Gould any information she would like to be displayed on the Community Council website and it could be put onto the website.

8.3. Tony Moore suggested the next meeting be an EGM in order to vote on another Vice Chair to replace the one who has left.

8.4. Two members of the Community Council have been approached about getting a pedestrian crossing nearer the Co-operative in Broadford. Karl Ross suggested we approach Transerv about it mentioning the safety aspect given this would help by slowing the traffic down. Marie Noble to action.

9. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting will be an EGM and is scheduled for Monday 11^th October 2010 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of AGM on Monday 2nd August 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF AGM HELD ON MONDAY 2^ND AUGUST 2010

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

Karl Ross

Also in attendance:

Ewan MacRae

John MacRae

Hamish Fraser, Local Councillor

Nicholas Kelly, Broadford Youth Club

AGENDA

•1. Apologies.

Marie Noble (Secretary) and John Gillies.

•2. Minute of Meeting of 5^th July 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Willie Inglis. Seconded by Tony Moore.

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Christmas Lights. Caroline Gould is still trying to get a response from the Highland Council Lighting Department in Fort William.

3.2. Broadford Hall Car Park Plans. A letter of support has been sent to the Village Hall committee. A separate letter was also sent regarding some concerns raised about disabled access and suggesting contact be made with the Skye & Lochalsh Access Panel who can give guidance. A copy was sent to the Skye & Lochalsh Access Panel.

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. Correspondence from Broadford Youth Club acknowledging receipt of the donation towards a pitch lining machine and enclosing a map of the location of the high fence which requires repair but no information of to whom they were asking the Community Council to write regarding this matter. Although a letter had been drafted the issue now been dealt with by Hamish Fraser.

4.2. Letter from David Stewart MSP. A year ago he launched a consultation calling for the Commissioner to safeguard the rights of victims and witnesses. The Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses (Scotland) Bill has now been lodged in Parliament. It aims to promote and safeguard the interests of victims and witnesses in Scotland. The Commissioner will have the responsibility as an independent champion to examine current legislation, services and policies. It will be the duty of the Commissioner to identify the gaps in current provisions, further good practice and strengthen the rights of victims and witnesses throughout Scotland. Progress of the Bill can be followed at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/s3/bills/MembersBills/index.htm where the consultation document, summary and proposal can also be viewed. There is also a separate website under construction and this will allow signatories to the Bill. Mr Stewart strongly encourages everyone to visit the websites mentioned and t follow the Bill's progress and would be particularly interested in any comments, questions or feedback in relation to this Bill.

•5. AGM.

5.1. Chairman's Report.

The Chairman, Tony Moore, provided the following report which was unanimously approved.

During the year August 2009 - August 2010, in accordance with its policy of arranging meetings outwith Broadford, meetings of the Broadford & Strath Community Council were held in Elgol Hall, Broadford Hall and Breakish Hall with regular meetings held in the Broadford Hotel. Because of significant local concern the meeting of 7^th December 2009 was a well attended public meeting with a single agenda item. The Community Council reconvened on 14 December to conclude the agenda. The meeting of 4^th January 2010 was cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. In spite of the resignation of the vice chair and occasional illness/absence the Community Council has continued to deal with a range of issues affecting the wider community.

Since August 2009 Community Council members have:

 

• Attended Eilean a' Cheo Ward Forum meetings
• Communicated local concerns and issues to Highland Council e.g. condition of Broadford War Memorial, cattle grid at Kilbride, condition of roads etc.
• Organised community skips in a range of locations
• Responded to requests for financial support from local organisations e.g. The Circle of Care Christmas Dinner for Senior Citizens, Broadford Childrens Play Association (MUGA Pitch), Broadford Youth Club (Pitch Lining machine)
• Responded to requests for general support from local organisations e.g. Broadford Hall Committee
• Continued to monitor development of Limepark Garden project
• Undertaken traditional Community Council projects e.g. the sourcing and decoration of Broadford Xmas tree
• Arranged for the removal of obsolete flower tubs
• Funded and arranged planting of new flower tubs
• Responded to Scotland Transerv cycle route proposal
• Encouraged public participation in NHS Highland Consultation Questionnaire through WHFP advertisement
• Responded to Integrated Transport Manager re Highland public transport
• Following representation from local residents the Community Council submitted planning objections for: Waterfront Development and Change of Use from Care Home to 42 bed Hostel at Broadford Surgery
• Facilitated Community Council/Public Meeting to discuss issue of unauthorised Traveller's Encampment on Forestry Commission ground adjacent to Broadford Cemetery and associated issues. This meeting was attended by officers of Highland Council, Councillors, Police and 40 members of the public.
• Attended and participated in Highland Council Budget Consultation exercise
• Responded to Highland Council Consultation on Ward 11 Community Council boundary changes
• Responded to Highland Council Consultation on Budget Constraints especially in relation to potential closure of Broadford Library
• Consulted with Skye& Lochalsh Access Officer/Strathaird Community Association/Drinan/Glasnakille & Elgol Grazings Committee on development of Core Path Programme and progressed Leader Application for Funding for Elgol/Glasnakille path

The following major issues have dominated Community Council agendas:

Broadford Surgery/Medical Practice

The Community Council continues to monitor and participate in Medical Practice developments as part of the Broadford Medical Centre Development Team as this project moves through design and implementation phases. The Community Council is pleased to note the progress of this project against a background of budget uncertainty.

NHS Skye, Lochalsh & Wester Ross

Members of the Community Council continue to monitor and participate in discussions and meetings related to the redesign of NHS services through attendance at the following events:

Skye & Lochalsh Health Services Workshop

Community Council members attended the Health Services workshop on 12^th February 2010 in the Dunollie Hotel. The event was arranged to feedback on the previous         

engagement exercise; to provide accurate information; to provide information on the national perspective; to provide information on current services and to provide an opportunity for delegates to ask questions and assist in prioritising actions for the future.

NHS Reference Group

Members of the Community Council attended the initial NHS Reference Group meeting held on 10 May in the MacKinnon Hotel, Kyleakin. 30 invited delegates met to take forward priorities for action identified following the patient/public engagement exercise and Workshop Event in February. The remit of the Reference Group which comprises a number of stakeholders is to shape an action plan and oversee its implementation. A draft role and remit for the Group was tabled for discussion. A Chairman (Roddy Murray-Sleat CC) and Vice Chairman (Dr Nancy Burge GP) were appointed and a draft Action Plan tabled. Dates for subsequent meetings were established.

NHS Reference Group

Members of the Community Council attended a NHS Reference Group meeting on 21 June 2010 in Broadford Hall. The role and remit of Reference Group was discussed and a Communications Plan tabled. A Finance presentation was followed by an Action Plan Development workshop. Work on the Action Plan would progress via Working Groups to report at the next scheduled meeting.

5.2. Treasurer's Report.

Anita Jones, the Treasurer, provided the annual financial report, including audited accounts, which was approved, a copy of which is available on request.

•6. Lime Park Garden Project.  This project was initiated by the previous Community Council. Highland Council held £5,000 for the project from easement monies for the benefit of Broadford & Strath. In March 2007 the landscaper presented an estimated total cost to Highland Council of £5,500 for the stone and landscaping works for the plans he had drawn up. Broadford & Strath Community Council agreed to fund the remaining £500. Stone was ordered by the landscaper and Highland Council paid £1,874 direct to the stone supplier. Highland Council held the balance of £3,126 but transferred this to Broadford & Strath Community Council, for the project, in late 2009. The landscaper has now presented the Community Council with an un-itemised interim bill for £6,500. Concern was expressed that the landscaper appears to have extended the garden way beyond the agreed initial plan drawn up. Far in excess of the agreed number of standing stones appear to have been installed. The Community Council should have been approached by the landscaper to discuss any such additional work. The only additional work requested by the Community Council has been the addition of a bin in keeping with the rest of the garden which the Community Council understood they would fund once plans for it were outlined and costs agreed. No discussions or meetings with the landscaper have mentioned any additional costs. In a conversation, Tony Moore had asked him not to order any more stone. A meeting has been arranged with the landscaper for Tuesday 3^rd August 2010 in order to discuss this matter.

•7. A.O.C.B.

7.1. A Broadford resident has approached the Community Council to ask if BT's plans to increase broadband speed to rural communities will include the Broadford and Strath area. It is not known yet if they will.

7.2. Concern has been raised about the flower tub near the Serpentarium. It was agreed to look at this matter and to resolve it once the growing season has ended.

7.3. The Christmas tree stump which is jammed in the pipe in the ground. It will need to be removed soon. John MacRae offered to have a look at it to see if he could remove it for the Community Council.

7.4. It was agreed to send a letter of support for the planning application submitted for the new Broadford Medical Practice. Tony Moore to action.

7.5. The Community Council is to send a cheque for the sum of £287.60 to Broadford & Strath Community Company to go towards the Millennium Bridge Project. This money was held in a Community Council Millennium Bridge account which will then be closed. Tony Moore and Anita Jones to action.

7.6. Caroline Gould updated the Community Council with regard to NHS issues on which she has been working closely with Roddy Murray of Sleat Community Council.

•8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 6^th September 2010 at 7.30pm in Elgol Village Hall. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of the Meeting of Monday 5th July 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 5^th JULY  2010

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Willie Inglis

Denis Gould

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

   Anita Jones (Treasurer), Karl Ross and.John Gillies

2. Minute of Meeting of 7^th June 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Marie Noble. Seconded by Tony Moore.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Christmas Lights. Caroline Gould to action contact with Highland Council Lighting Department in Fort William.

3.2. Highland Core Paths Programme. Tony Moore reported that he had completed a form for Leader funding for the Core Path Project which was returned to Donald Kennedy.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association. A letter thanking the Community Council for supporting the Housing Association's application for funding for two new posts of Energy Efficiency Officers and informing us that this was successful. Following a recruitment process, the Housing Association have confirmed the appointments. The start date for both posts is 28^th June 2010.

4.2. Skye & Lochalsh Environment Forum - Mink survey. Letter from Rob Forrest () regarding the Mink Survey taking place in Skye & Lochalsh and asking people to help. There are three ways in which people can help. (1) Send a record of any mink sightings to Rob. It would be helpful if this could include the location (grid reference, if possible), date, number of animals seen and a note of what they were doing. (2) Send a record of any livestock loss, which might be attributed to mink, including location, loss and type of damage. (3) For anyone who is interested in giving more detailed help, the Environment Forum will set up a network of monitoring tunnels for mink. These incorporate a clay pad on which footprints can be impressed. With help and training, which the Environmental Forum will provide, they hope to construct a true record of mink usage in the area.

4.3. Highland Council Planning Applications. The Planning Applications Committee will meet on Tuesday 29^th June 2010 in Dingwall Council Offices. The recommendation to the committee is to grant permission for the recent application regarding the Waterfront in Broadford.

4.4.  Highland Council Development Plan Scheme. A copy of the revised Development Plan Scheme 2010.

4.5. Highland Council Environmental Health. Information leaflets on safe use of barbecues including a food safety checklist for barbecues.

5. NHS Highland.

5.1 NHS Reference Group.

The second meeting of the Skye & Lochalsh Reference Group took place in Broadford Village Hall on Monday 21^st June 2010. Tony Moore and Caroline Gould attended. There was a second draft of the role, remit and membership of the group. A communication plan has been put in place. Tom Slavin of the NHS gave a finance presentation. A decision was taken to take forward the fleshing out of the action plan via a series of small working parties. Tony and Caroline both volunteered to take part in this. Towards the end of the meeting the discussion turned to a series of papers to be presented to the Mid Highland Community Health Partnership (CHP) Governance Committee meeting to be held later that week. The papers covered the Skye salaried practices redesign proposal, the provision of bed spacing, single room provision and en suite facilities in the Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital in Broadford, the redesign of the out of hours (OOH) service in Skye & Lochalsh and the emergency response and transport strategies options framework and memorandum of understanding with the Scottish Ambulance Service. The papers had been issued shortly before the meeting but not everyone had received them. Some of these papers stated that, by the time they were presented at the Mid Highland CHP meeting the following Friday, they would already have been discussed by the Reference Group. The Chairperson of the Reference Group, Roddy Murray of Sleat Community Council, objected to this. He had not received the papers, they were not tabled on the agenda for the Reference Group meeting, and there had been no prior discussion with the Chairperson. It appeared to undermine the role of the Reference Group and make a mockery of NHS engagement with the public.

5.2 Broadford Medical Centre Development.

Caroline Gould attended the sixth meeting of the new Broadford Medical Centre Project Team on Wednesday 30^th June 2010. The request for additional funding for this project will go to the Asset Management group  meeting on 20^th July. It is hoped that planning consent will be given for a roundabout at the junction with the current Medical Practice as there could potentially be a potential cost penalty in having to move the junction elsewhere on the road. The planning application for the project was to be submitted by the week ending Friday 2^nd July 2010. The next meeting of the project team will be held on Wednesday 25^th August 2010. Caroline Gould asked that the Community Council send a strong letter of support for this project to the Planning Department. This was agreed unanimously.

6. Ward Forum Meeting.

Tony Moore and Caroline Gould attended the Ward Forum meeting specifically for Community Councils, on Monday 28^th June 2010 in Portree. There was a presentation on the new waste and recycling collection, from Monday 6^th September 2010, when the household waste and recycling bins will be collected on a fortnightly basis. This will be advertised widely. There was a presentation from Roddy Murray of Sleat Community Council and a letter from Kilmuir Community Council, describing what they had been doing and what they had achieved in the last year. A discussion regarding the proposal to cut down the Skye Community Councils from 16 to 3 was clearly opposed. Jan Laing agreed that the current Ward Forum platform was not working for Community Councils so it was proposed to set up a short life working group to see how things could be improved. The Community Council training Pack was distributed at the meeting and Tony Moore was thanked for his help in putting this together.

 

7. Village flower Tubs.

Tony Moore thanked Anita  and John Jones, Karl Ross and Willie Inglis for their work on the new villlage flower planters which have now been placed in situ, lined, filled and planted up by Ron Johnstone. Tony and Anita also removed 3 bags of bulbs from the old tubs and Tony will arrange to remove and collect the rest.

8. Limepark Garden Project.

Ten stones have now been erected. Tony Moore has responded to the Planning Department and they would like to see the plans. Marie Noble will action this.

9. Broadford Village Hall Plans.

Following consultation of the plans, it was agreed to support the project. However, concerns regarding disabled access to the Village Hall, compliant with the law, have been raised. In view of the current climate of funding uncertainty and the anticipation that voluntary organisations will have to assume more responsibility regarding care and service roles in the community in the future. The Village Hall has the potential to be used much more by elderly and disabled groups in the future so a letter regarding this will be sent to the Village Hall Committee. Tony to action this.

10. A.O.C.B.

10.1. Overnight Parking.

A complaint has been received about the overnight parking of refrigerated lorries outside MareScot in Broadford. These are disturbing local residents with the noise of the refrigeration units. Following discussion it was decided to seek advice about this from Environmental Health.

10.2. Millenium Bridge.

Denis Gould suggested that we send a cheque to the Broadford Community Company for the amount held in our accounts for this project. This was agreed unanimously.

11. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is the AGM and is scheduled for Monday 2^nd August 2010 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting of 7th June 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 7^th JUNE  2010

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Karl Ross

John Gillies

Also in attendance:

John Gilbertson (Chairman, Broadford Village Hall)

Dolag MacKinnon (Broadford Village Hall)

George Speed (Community Works Officer, Highland Council)

Mark Crowe (Community Works Manager, Highland Council)

Hamish Fraser (Local Councillor)

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Denis Gould and Willie Inglis.

2. Minute of Meeting of 3^rd May 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Karl Ross. Seconded by John Gillies.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Christmas Lights. Caroline Gould reported that she had received no response to her emails to Robbie Milne in the Highland Council Lighting Department in Fort William. She will contact the Lighting Department direct to see if there is someone else she should be dealing with there.

3.2. Limepark Garden Project. Hamish Fraser stated that this project had been ongoing for some three years now and the state of the site was attracting a lot of unfavourable comment. It was imperative that the project be completed soon. Tony Moore is to contact Eoin Macleod to discuss the subject. It was agreed that a letter confirming what was discussed should then be sent to Eoin Macleod.

3.3. MUGA Project. Concern was expressed that the Community Council had released money to the MUGA project on the basis that they had been told in April 2010, by Nicholas Kelly, that all the funding had been achieved for this project yet, more recently, collection bins had appeared in the local Co-Op store suggesting that the project was still some £5,000 short of its funding target. It would seem that letters have also been sent to local businesses looking for a £50 contribution from each business towards the project. Hamish Fraser confirmed that the local councillors had also been of the belief that all the money was in place for the project. With regard to a letter of support from the Community Council for the high fence on the playing field to be replaced, Nicholas Kelly was to give Tony Moore a map regarding the location of a fence requiring replacement, but Tony confirmed that he had still not received one. Hamish Fraser stated that he had already written to the Council asking for the fence to be repaired.

3.4. Broadford Youth Club. Anita Jones (Treasurer) said that she had received a receipt for the cheque given to Nicholas Kelly to go towards the purchase of a pitch lining machine.

3.5. Ward Forum Meeting on 28^th June 2010. The Community Council is intending to attend the Eilean A' Cheo Ward Forum Meeting  dedicated to Community Councils to be held in Portnalong on 28^th June from 7 - 9pm.

3.6. Hostel Planning application. The Community Council have had a letter from the Planning Department stating the conditions which apply to the granting of this application for change of use of the old Strathcare Residential Home (above the Broadford Medical Practice) to a 42 bed hostel. There have been a number of complaints that work has already started and this is causing noise within the medical centre and that the treatment room at the medical centre has been temporarily taken out of use for patients because of fears of lack of confidentiality due to the connecting door from that room through to the ground floor part of what is to become the hostel. In addition, the hot water system in that building covers both the medical centre and the hostel and as workers have been living in the hostel part of the building and using the hot water, consequently, the Medical Centre has not had a regular hot water supply. Concern was expressed that the conditions laid down in the granting of the application would appear not to be being adhered to. Hamish Fraser suggested that this should be pursued through the Planning Department. A member of the Community Council had already spoken to Dafydd Jones, the Planning Manager for Ross, Skye and Lochaber. There have also been complaints regarding the way in which trees in front of the Medical Centre were felled by workmen wearing no safety equipment and without roping off areas so branches were falling in the road and car park where people and cars were.

3.7. Village Flower Tubs. The new flower tubs should be ready by the end of the week. The dimensions originally envisaged have been changed slightly. It is vital that we have them in place and planted by the end of next week.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Highland Council Libraries. Correspondence from former Highland Council librarians looking for support from the Community Council in the Highland Council budget consultation. The Community Council will also be attending the Budget Consultation exercise in Portree on 14thJune 2010.

4.2. Limepark Garden Project. Email from David Hancock, Assistant Building Standards Surveyor, Area Planning and Building Standards Office, Portree, requesting information on the works being undertaken in the Limepark Garden Project.

5. Broadford Village Hall.

John Gilbertson explained that, following fundraising, Broadford Village Hall had undergone considerable improvement within the last few years and this had led to increased usage of the hall. However, there have been problems with cars parking on the road outside the hall when the hall car park is full so support is now being sought for improving the access to, and capacity of, the village hall car park. Angus Macphie has had plans of the suggested improvements to the car park drawn up and John Gilbertson and Dolag MacKinnon produced a copy of these for the Community Council. They asked that the Community Council provide the hall committee with any positive and negative feedback and possibly a letter of support. Caroline Gould asked about disabled access and whether the Skye & Lochalsh Access Panel had been invited to complete a disability access audit on the village hall and the plans for the car park. The Access Panel, if involved, at an early stage in the process could provide full information on what exactly was required in order to make access to the village hall and car park fully compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act and this would avoid any mistakes which might be difficult or costly to correct at a later stage. John and Dolag welcomed such input from the Access Panel and asked how to get in touch with them. Caroline Gould agreed to provide John with contact details for the Skye & Lochalsh Access Panel the following day. John Gilbertson said that the Village Hall committee had also met with the primary school, the MUGA pitch group and the Youth Club to discuss the car park requirements. It was decided to discuss the plans at the next Community Council meeting, form a view, and then send a letter to the village hall committee.

6. T.E.C. Services.

6.1.   Broadford War Memorial.

TEC Services plans to re-point and stabilise the base of the memorial. The corner stones require to be removed, cleaned and replaced. They do not feel that they can do anything about the crack in the cross as that would be a specialist job. They hope that they can get the work done before the cold weather returns and then look at doing the path. The Community Council have not yet had written permission from Chris MacKenzie of Eilean Iarmain Estates regarding the path. The holes in the steps will also be repaired. The handrails need repainting and it was suggested that we find volunteers to help with that. They would require proper preparation using a wire brush before painting with Hammerite paint which TEC Services said they could provide. Mark Crowe suggested possibly getting Community Service workers involved.

6.2.   Tubs.

George Speed was thanked by the Community Council for his help in clearing the old village flower tubs.

6.3.   Roads/Bridges.

Mark Crowe explained that all roads are surveyed and inspected: A class roads annually, B class roads every 4 years and unclassified roads every 10 years. The state of each road in Scotland is then classified red, amber or green. The survey looks at deflection, shape, rutting, texture and cracking and on top of that there are visual monthly and quarterly inspections. The cost of bitumen has surpassed the rate of inflation so cost is an issue. The cattle grid on the Torrin Road just outside Broadford is to be replaced soon. Anita Jones asked that they look at the cattle grid near the quarry as it is rattling very badly. Tony Moore asked if TEC Services could fill in some of the potholes on the B8083 as, despite recent patching, potholes have reappeared. He also asked that a fuchsia bush sticking out across the road as you enter Elgol be removed as it obscures drivers' vision on that stretch of the road and it caused an accident a few years ago. He wanted to ensure that another accident did not occur there. John Gillies expressed concern at the speed of traffic going through Broadford. Mark Crowe said that the entrance to the main Broadford car park was badly cracked and seemed to be like that as a result of all the heavy good vehicles. He said that in the past the council had muted closing off the eastern end of the main car park in Broadford (closest to the garage) it might help to stop the heavy good vehicles driving through. Hamish Fraser said that he would have no problem with that being done as it had been discussed before with the previous Community Council. Mark Crowe suggested that a temporary barrier be put there for a period of a year or so in order to try to discourage the heavy good vehicles from stopping overnight in the car park as they caused noise problems for local residents because of chill units being run through the night and engines starting up in the early hours of the morning as well as causing considerable wear to the surface of the car park. It was agreed that it was a problem. Caroline Gould highlighted the problem of tourists using the civic amenity recycling centre at the back of the garage forecourt in Broadford as a car park which meant that people wishing to bring items for recycling were having difficulty parking close enough to the recycling centre. Mark Crowe said that he would check whose responsibility that area was. Karl Ross raised the subject of the broken sea wall opposite the butcher's shop in Broadford. Mark Crowe said that temporary fencing was to be erected there until the sea wall had been repaired, however, that part of land is not covered by TEC Services. It is the responsibility of the Education, Culture and Sports Service but TEC Services will make it safe temporarily and discuss with Education, Culture and Sport a more permanent repair to the sea wall. The problem of Broadford public toilets was also discussed. The toilets had been closed for several weeks during the winter due to burst water pipes and blocked sewer pipes. These toilets are well used and must be kept open as much as possible. Hamish Fraser thanked TEC Services for their recent patching and resurfacing of the Waterloo road.

6.4.   Highland Council Budget implications.

Mark Crowe said that with regard to budget implications it was essential to prioritise what Highland Council had to do as a statutory function, such as their obligations under the Roads (Scotland) Act. The community works tend to be more amenity works rather than statutory.

7. NHS Highland.

7.1.   Broadford Medical Centre Development.

Tony Moore attended the fifth meeting of the new Broadford Medical Centre Project Team on Wednesday 26^th May 2010. Work towards this is progressing well although titles to the land at the side of the High Road are still to be identified. Level Two costings were discussed. The project is looking very positive. At the next meeting the Level Two costings will be completed and it is the intention to submit the planning application as soon as possible. A meeting is also planned with Ardent Holdings, who own the current medical centre building, in order to discuss alterations to the road. The next meeting of the project team will be held on the 30^th June 2010.

7.2.   NHS Reference Group.

The Skye & Lochalsh Reference Group met on 10^th May in Kyleakin. Tony Moore represented Broadford & Strath Community Council. Roddy Murray, Chair of Sleat Community Council was voted in as Chair of the Reference Group and Dr Nancy Burge as Vice Chair. A member of the Scottish Health Council was also in attendance. The remit and membership of the group was discussed. A code of conduct for the group has yet to be issued. The next meeting will be on 21^st June and thereafter meetings will be held quarterly.

7.3.   Practice Amalgamation.

Following several phone calls from people in North Skye asking about the amalgamation of Broadford and Sleat Medical Practices, Caroline Gould had been in contact with Roddy Murray of Sleat Community Council to ask about it. She also attended a Sleat Community Council meeting where the subject was discussed. At that meeting, the following statement from Kate Earnshaw, NHS Clinical Services Manager, was read out:

"Broadford / Sleat amalgamation

The Mid Highland CHP has agreed that the two salaried practices of Broadford and Sleat amalgamate to operate as one unit for South Skye.  A small operational working party has been established to progress the implementation and to feed back to colleagues in the respective practices.

There is to be collaborative working between both practices, including cross cover and shared practice management. There will be rationalisation of administration arrangements to reduce costs a shared IT and telephone system.

This is being underpinned by analysis to understand the demands and capacity of the service and introduce more efficient systems to support the changing work loads.  The proposal includes each practice being closed 1 half day per week with cover being provided by the other practice.  This will not impact on patient care as both practices run an appointment system so patients can book to see their GP as they have always done so.  On the ½ day the practice is closed, the GP's will carry out necessary paperwork, referrals and domiciliary visits as required.  Patients phoning the GP on the afternoon their practice is closed will go through to the other site, where the staff will be able to support them with their enquiry e.g. booking appointments etc.

A patient public representative has been requested to join the group through health voices. 

Once the amalgamation is ready to proceed fully, patients will be informed in writing via primary care of the surgeries new opening times and a press release will be submitted to the WHFP.

Kate Earnshaw

Clinical Services Development Manager (Skye Lochalsh, Ross Cromarty and West Ness)"

It would appear that discussions regarding the amalgamation have been ongoing since January 2010 but no representative of the community has yet been given the opportunity to take part in these discussions. Caroline Gould quoted from the Mid Highland Community Health Partnership (CHP) Draft Delivery Plan of February 2010:

"The funding available to NHS Highland is finite and there will be a need to release resources from some parts of the organisation in order to develop the care and services that people need. These decisions will be taken together with the local communities and staff"

Concern was expressed that this did not seem to be happening and that it was believed that Glenelg and Carbost surgeries were also to be involved in the amalgamation. Each of these communities should be represented and included in discussions. There are a number of other changes in the pipeline within the NHS locally and yet there would appear to be no effort on the part of Mid Highland CHP to engage with patients or members of the community. Caroline Gould also stated that the most recent approved minutes of Mid Highland CHP meetings were not being displayed on NHS Highland's website. She was concerned to find, when she had obtained copies, that it would appear that Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital was to lose yet more beds due to the need for better toilet facilities and better infection control. Mid Highland CHP's Governance Committee is due to meet on Friday 25^th June in Kyleakin and Sleat and Broadford & Strath Community Councils are looking to be able to have time at that meeting to address their concerns.

8. Highland Core Path Programme.

Tony Moore had a meeting with Donald Kennedy, Skye & Lochalsh Access Officer, who is keen to develop the Core Path Programme. He was in Elgol to develop the core path joining the townships of Glasnakille and Elgol. It is an old well established and recognised route that requires some attention. This has been approved by the Strathaird Community Association and there is Leader funding for it. Broadford and Strath Community Council expressed support for this project.

9. A.O.C.B.

9.1. Highland Council's Budget Consultation,

Broadford & Strath Community Council sent a letter to Alasdair Dodds, Chief Executive of Highland Council expressing concern that a number of people within our community have highlighted the fact that they would like to be able to participate in the Highland Council budget consultation exercise but are unable to do so because they do not have access to a computer and/or are not computer literate and they are unable to attend the only meeting in Portree to discuss it. Highland Council seems to be heavily reliant on assuming that people have internet access yet Broadford Library, which is under threat of closure, is the only place in Broadford and Strath which provides free internet access.  In addition, there are people in remote rural communities who will also be affected in some, probably several, ways by the budget changes to be made. They have rights to be made aware of and participate in the consultation process.Broadford & Strath Community Council requested therefore that Highland Council advertise the information which it holds online regarding the budget consultation exercise in a manner in which it will reach such people in remote rural communities and those without internet access, those who are not computer literate, etc. and make the consultation process accessible to all, in other formats, to enable everyone within the community the opportunity to be aware of and to participate fairly in this consultation exercise. The response from Highland Council appeared to miss the point. Caroline Gould provided posters to be displayed in more remote areas of Broadford & Strath. The Community Council will be represented at the Budget Consultation exercise in Portree.

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 5^th July 2010 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting of 3rd May 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 3^RD MAY  2010

AT BREAKISH HALL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

Denis Gould

John Gillies

AGENDA

•1. Apologies.

Tony Moore (Chairperson).

•2. Minute of Meetings of 5^th April 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Willie Inglis. Seconded by Karl Ross.

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. Concern was expressed at the apparent lack of progress on this project. Following discussion, and given the number of complaints from local residents regarding the general unsightly state of the site, it was agreed to write to Eoin Macleod to convey this and ask for an agreed timescale on this project. Marie Noble to action.

3.2. Travellers. The forestry entrance site has been cleared and secured with the aim of clearing up the area and then permitting access to the public again, however several travellers' caravans have now been located several hundred yards up the brae out of Broadford on the Elgol Road. It was acknowledged that some of the travellers have been clearing up the area of unsightly scrap metal. It is up to the landowners concerned to take action if they have a problem with any of the travellers. The Community Council is not currently aware of any problem with them.

3.3. Christmas Lights. Caroline Gould has emailed Robbie Milne of Highland Council's Lighting Department but has had no response yet.

3.4. Broadford Youth Club. Anita Jones (Treasurer) said that she had not yet received a receipt for a cheque given to Nicholas Kelly despite the fact that he had promised to send one when he last attended a meeting. The Community Council is to write to remind him that a receipt is required as soon as possible. Nicholas was to give Tony Moore a map regarding the location of a fence requiring replacement.

3.5. War Memorial. Chris Mackenzie of Eilean Iarmain Estates has said that he is very happy for TEC Services to lay a flagged path leading to the memorial in order to enable disabled access and for the Community Council to organise maintenance of that small area.

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. Ward Forum notification. Email reminder from Jan Laing, Highland Council Eilean A' Cheo Ward Forum Manager about the Ward Forum dedicated to Community Councils to be held on 28^th June from 7 - 9pm in the new community hall in Portnalong. Any items for the agenda should be sent to Jan Laing. After discussion, a number of items to be discussed were listed. Caroline Gould will email these to Tony Moore to send on to Jan Laing. It was agreed that Broadford & Strath Community Council must be well represented at this meeting.

4.2. NHS Reference Group nomination. Invitation from Gill McVicar, General Manager, Mid Highland Community Health Partnership (CHP) to Tony Moore (Chairperson of Broadford & Strath Community Council, inviting the Community Councils in Skye, Lochalsh and West Ross to nominate five people to represent all of the Community Councils on the Skye & Lochalsh Services Reference Group. Caroline Gould reported that Tony Moore would be the nominated representative for Broadford & Strath Community Council.

4.3. NHS/Highland Council Joint Community Care Consultation. Letter from Ian Thomson of Highland Community Care Partnership (NHS Highland and Highland Council) drawing the Community Council's attention to the Joint Community Care consultation exercise which is ongoing until 15^th June 2010. There are 4 short consultation documents which summarise the plans for improvement and which offer people the opportunity to give their view. These documents cover specific areas and groups and are for older adults in need, younger adults in need, people with mental health problems and/ or substance misuse (alcohol and drugs) and common approaches: adults in need. There is therefore a choice of document to allow people the opportunity to complete the most appropriate one. These documents can also be completed online at http://www.fhccommunities.org/ and the documents should be available at service points, medical centres and pharmacies.

4.4. Hostel Planning application. Letter from Dafydd Jones, Area Planning & Building Standards Manager, Highland Council notifying the Community Council that the recent application to change the use of the old Strathcare Residential Home (above the Broadford Medical Practice) to a 42 bed (class 7) hostel has been granted.

4.5. Duncraig Educational Trust. Email from Jan Laing notifying the Community Council that the Duncraig Educational Trust has opened for business this year with an application deadline of Friday 11^th June 2010. Awards of up to £1k are available for young Highland people (16-25) who have a unique or exceptional talent to help with the costs of participating in sporting events at national or international level, obtaining specialist sports coaching, train9ng or equipment to compete at national or international level, attending a specialist course of study in arts, language and heritage, science and environment. There is a great deal of competition for funding from the Trust and application forms and guidance can be found at http://www.highland.gov.uk/learninghere/grantsandallowances.trst.htm.

•5. Flower Tubs.

Willie Inglis reported that he had researched a variety of tubs available from a number of different sources. The best would appear to be 2m x 1m x 50cm redwood tubs at £65 each or in larch at £95 each from the Highland Shed Company. Following discussion, it was decided to buy five larch tubs and, given the need to get them in situ for the summer, ensure that they are set in their various locations throughout Broadford, filled and planted as soon as possible. Anita and Karl will hold a site meeting in order to decide on the locations and Willie will order the tubs and obtain en estimated delivery date. Anita will also check whether or not planning permission is required for the tubs and Karl will contact Ron Johnstone regarding the plants and loam.

•6. Broadford Library.

Given that Broadford Library appears to be one of those earmarked for possible closure in Highland Council's budget savings, a large number of people have approached Community Council members to ask what they are going to do about it. Following discussion, it was agreed that Caroline Gould would look into this matter and report back at the next meeting.

7. Broadford Medical Practice Meeting.

Caroline Gould attended the fourth meeting of the new Broadford Medical Centre Project Team on Wednesday 28^th April 2010. Work towards this appears to be progressing well. Level One costs were discussed. It was agreed that Level Two costs would be required at the next meeting on 26^th May in order to move the project forward. At the next meeting a more definitive view of exactly how much more will be required should be available. The approach road from the main road needs to be widened however there appears to be a condition attached to the original gift of the road that the trees are not touched. Caroline Gould asked if space for visiting consultants could be built into the plans because of the apparent lack of such space at Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital given one of the consulting rooms there had been apparently taken out of its usual use.

8. Well North Report.

Anita Jones and Caroline Gould attended this meeting on Thursday 29^th April 2010 in the Kyle Hotel. The Well North Project is a project within South Skye and Lochalsh which aims to bring together stakeholders of various organisations in an attempt to involve community voice and community action in supporting and improving health and well being. It was agreed that the Community Council should participate in this at this time.

9. A.O.C.B.

None.

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 7^th June 2010 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting of 5th April 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 5^TH APRIL 2010

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

Also in attendance:

Nicholas Kelly (representing Broadford Youth Club).

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Marie Noble (Secretary), Denis Gould , John Gillies and Chris MacKinnon.

2. Minute of Meetings of 1^st March 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Karl Ross. Seconded by Anita Jones.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. Tony Moore reported that the contractor appears to have encountered some difficulties but it is hoped that these will soon be resolved and the work will progress.

3.2. Travellers. The forestry entrance site has been cleared and secured with the aim of clearing up the area and then permitting access to the public again.

3.3. Christmas Lights. Caroline Gould is continuing to discuss this with Robbie Milne of Highland Council's Lighting Department.

3.4. Fairtrade event. Karl Ross attended. He asked how the planned village Fairtrade signs were progressing. It was reported that some difficulties had been encountered but they are now looking into an alternative source of funding for the project. They have also asked Tony Moore if they can put a link to the Fairtrade website on the Broadford & Strath Community website. Tony will direct them to the webmaster.

3.5. Half pipe project. The half pipe, which was in Broadford for over a month has now been moved to its next location.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from the West Highland Free Press introducing journalist, Lisa Falconer, who is interested in community issues, and requesting copies of the agendas and minutes as they become available. She has been emailed the agenda. Both the agenda and minutes are available on the Community Council website http://www.broadfordandstrath.org/index.php/bcc.

4.2. Notification of a military exercise from 12^th to 30^th April 2010. It will affect North Uist, South Uist, Benbecula, Applecross, Loch Ewe, Cape Wrath, the Durness area, Loch Eriboll, Loch Shin, Ashaig Airstrip, Granton on Spey and parts of the Scottish Borders. It will include some out of hours flying so noise disturbance may be experienced at some locations.

4.3. Letter from Nicholas Kelly of Broadford Youth Club requesting a donation for a pitch line marker. Following discussion of the full cost of the machine, circa £360, it was decided to donate £200 towards the machine.

4.4. Email from Jan Laing, Eilean a' Cheo Ward Manager, regarding the Highland Council and NHS Highland consultation on the joint plan for community care services, which is to take place over the next few months. The draft Joint Community Care Plan sets out the kind of services needed to deliver the best outcomes for older people and other vulnerable groups, including people with learning disability, sensory impairment, mental health and substance misuse problems and those who are homeless. A set of booklets has been produced highlighting the key issues and these will be discussed with the public in various settings. Material has been provided, covering services for older adults in need; younger adults (16 yrs to 64 yrs) in need; mental health and/or substance misuse; and all adults in need; common approaches. The information is to be distributed widely, including through service points, libraries, pharmacies and GP surgeries. Surveys will be available by requesting a consultation booklet on 01463 702807 or, for those with access to the internet, they can be completed online from Friday 26^th March at http://www.fhcommunities.org/.

4.5. Email regarding the Public Catalogue Foundation asking the Community Council if they had any works of art in their possession. Tony Moore responded saying that we do not hold any works of art..

4.6. Email from NHS Highland stating that they are looking for two non-executive board members. More information can be found at http://www.appointed-for-scotland.org/Current-positions/Member---Highland-NHS-Board/.

4.7. Email from Mark Crowe of TEC Services regarding links to the recently issued TECS Road Assessment Management Plan (RAMP) http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/roadsandtransport/assetmanagement.htm

which highlights the assets which Highland Council have to maintain as a roads authority and demonstrates how they prioritise with the given financial resources, and  the list of public roads http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/roadsandtransport/roads/listofadoptedroads.htm

which indicates to people which roads fall in or out of Highland Council's responsibility.

4.8. Information regarding HM Revenue and Customs Advice Team, Business Gateway and Self Assessment for Self Employed courses.

4.9. Email regarding the National Spring Clean campaign which will take place between the 1^st and 30^th April 2010. Any group not yet registered but wishing to take part within the Highland region must register with TEC Services who will provide bags, gloves and litter pickers and Highland Council will remove all bags of litter collected. The email also included a list of groups and sites registered in the region, of which only three were in Skye & Lochalsh: two based in Kyle and one in Dunvegan. Concern was expressed that this email did not give the Community Council much notice of this campaign which was disappointing given that it would have been easier to organise some teams had we been notified before the school holidays. The email was sent by Portree Community Council in case we were unaware of this campaign. It originated from local councillor, John Laing, Chairperson of TEC Services. Following discussion, it was decided to email John Laing to say how disappointed we were that the information had come to us so late as it had prevented us from being able to organise something in time.

5. TEC Services meeting.

Anita Jones and Karl Ross met with George Speed of TEC Services to discuss the Broadford Village Flower Tubs and the Broadford War Memorial. Anita and Karl also met with Ron Johnstone to discuss the replacement of the old village flower tubs. It was recommended that we clear away the tubs and replace them with a single trough at each of five locations throughout Broadford (one either side of the main road near the entrance to Broadford Industrial Estate, one outside the bank and one each side of the road near the turning off the main road leading to the Serpentarium). Ron Johnstone suggested that the troughs are filled with bedding plants in order to provide a bright splash of colour for the summer. In the autumn, Ron will draw up a plan for the green. Whatever is agreed for the green will have to be protected from the grass cutters. The current tubs, which are currently in flower are to be cleared by TEC Services, and stored, with the permission of Angus Macphie, on the area of land between the Co-operative car park and the Dunollie Hotel, until the bulbs can then be recovered for planting in the community garden and elsewhere. Anita Jones has enquired through Portree Community Council of  possible sources of new tubs/troughs and enquired through Highland Council whether they could order them, if we paid for them, but they have said that this will not be possible. Anita has looked elsewhere at replacement recycled plastic tubs but they are very expensive. Ron Johnston has said that he will look into it and get back to us. Following discussion, it was decided that Anita would make enquiries with the Highland Shed Company in Broadford and Willie Inglis would do the same at the Touchwood wood recycling workshop in Uig regarding prices for 2m (L) x 1m (W) x 60cm (H) troughs. It may be necessary to obtain planning permission in order to locate the troughs at various points within the village.

With regard to the Broadford War Memorial, Anita and Karl discussed with George Speed of TEC Services the maintenance work required. TEC Services will carry out pointing work on the base of the memorial. The repair of the steps and the handrails, the path at the back and the disabled access will be dealt with at a later date. Anita will write to Chris MacKenzie of Sir Iain Noble's Eilean Iarmain Estate drawing to his attention the fact that the war memorial is in such a poor state, that TEC Services have agreed to start renovating it, but that we have a problem with the fact that it is accessed by steep stone steps which are totally unsuitable for elderly or disabled people and that although there is a small track over the land at the back of the memorial, which we believe is owned by Sir Iain Noble, with the landowner's permission, TEC Services has said that they would lay a flag path over the track and put a level area around the memorial itself in order to provide disabled access. Anita will also request permission for the Community Council to thereafter maintain the area immediately to the back of the memorial in order to make it look better in future.

6. Broadford Youth Club.

Nicholas Kelly reported that the MUGA Project was now fully funded from a variety of sources. It is hoped to use some of the funding to move the purple and red shelter from the community garden up to the playing field. As a courtesy, the people whose homes abut the playing field were shown what is planned. Nicholas requested if the Community Council could write to Highland Council to request that the large fence which was originally built to stop footballs from hitting the houses, and which has now fallen down, be replaced. The Community Council agreed to this. Nicholas is to provide a map of the location of the fence to be sent with the letter.

Nicholas Kelly left the meeting at this point.

7. Broadford Medical Practice Meeting.

Caroline Gould attended the third meeting of the new Broadford Medical Centre Project Team on Wednesday 31^st March 2010. The architects have met with Highland Council's Roads Department. It will be necessary to complete comprehensive work on the access road leading from the main road up to the junction leading to the new medical centre, which will be situated approximately 25 metres north of the current medical centre. New pavement, 1.8 m wide and kerbing will also be required and new drainage installed, if necessary. It is likely that many of the trees will have to be removed but this will be decided following a full tree report and then a supplementary planting programme and landscaping will be required. Street lighting will also be installed but it is hoped that Highland Council may finance this. It was reported that Ardent Holdings, who own both floors at the current medical centre building have given a verbal commitment to share the costs of the road works which it is hoped will then be adopted by Highland Council. The architects also reported a very positive support from the Planning Department towards the proposed development.

The feedback from the user group was very positive and a floor plan proposed which would allow for 75% future proofing on an upper floor. As costs for the design need to be assessed it was agreed that, at the next meeting on Wednesday 28^th April 2010, basic level one costs (which would include road, drainage, engineer, building costs, etc) should be discussed, at which point, it may be necessary to apply to the Asset Management Group for additional funding for the project.

It was stated that the current design proposed allowed for possible community access to space for meetings in the waiting room/entrance area out of surgery hours, though it was noted that such space was fairly limited.

John Wilson, the Practice Manager has compiled an extensive list of equipment which can be transferred to the new premises. A list of other required specialist equipment, and costs, will be required to factor into the total costs of the development as well as Information Technology requirements which will require input from eHealth who oversee the planning, development, delivery and management of IT services within NHS Highland according to the current national guidelines and directives.

8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. Letter from a member of the community regarding local business planning applications. Following discussion, it was agreed that the Community Council respond to this letter with a statement outlining their responsibilities regarding planning matters within their area. The statement is as follows:

"The Community Council reviewed its policy and procedures in relation to Planning issues. The Community Council confirmed its statutory role in considering planning issues of local concern. The Community Council will consider planning issues only where those concerns have been brought to a full Community Council meeting. Following full discussion and, if necessary, a majority vote the Community Council may initiate a Planning Objection only where public interests are involved e.g. parking, public access and safety etc.

The Community Council is mindful of its wider responsibilities and in lodging a Planning Objection takes into account any potential benefits that may accrue to the area." 

8.2. Approach to ALDI. It was suggested that the Community Council write to ALDI inviting them to consider opening a store in Broadford. Following discussion, it was agreed that a letter be sent.

9. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 3^rd May 2010 at 7.30pm in Breakish Hall. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting of 1st March 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 1^st MARCH 2010

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

Also in attendance:

John Gillies.

At the start of the meeting John Gillies was co-opted onto the Community Council and formally welcomed.

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

Chris MacKinnon.

2. Minute of Meetings of 1^st February 2010.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Karl Ross. Seconded by Willie Inglis.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. Tony Moore reported that the largest upright stones are in place and the remaining smaller stones should soon be installed. Anita Jones confirmed receipt of the residual money for this project (£3,126.19) from Highland Council.

3.2. Travellers. There seems to be a new influx of travellers on the lay by west of the Forestry entrance. Some travellers are still encamped at the forestry entrance despite the notification of eviction. Tony Moore is to contact Jan Laing to ascertain what the current situation regarding the proposed eviction. Travellers appear to have abandoned two caravans at Ashaig. Travellers appear to still be encamped at the Forestry car park. Tony Moore to check on the situation and, if necessary speak to the Forestry Commission.

3.3. Childrens Play Association. Tony Moore reported that Nicholas Kelly has been informed by John MacDonald of Highland Council that the Playing Field monies (£1,348) held by the Community Council can be passed onto the MUGA pitch project.

3.4. Christmas Lights. The Community Council has been approached by a group wanting to fundraise for more Christmas lights for Broadford. Caroline Gould is to chase this up with Robbie Milne of Highland Council's Lighting Department to ascertain what types of lighting and electric supply sources might be possible.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from the Planning Department acknowledging receipt of the Community Council's objection to the application for a change of use, to 42 bed hostel, above the current Broadford Medical Centre.

4.2. Invitation to the Community Council to attend the Fairtrade Big Brew Tea Party on Tuesday 2^nd March from 2 to 4.30pm at the Harbour Restaurant in Broadford. Karl Ross will represent the Community Council at it.

4.3. Brochure on community play area equipment which includes play equipment for disabled children.

4.4. Press release regarding major resurfacing roadworks on the A87.

4.5. Letter from Charles Kennedy regarding the Community Council's concern regarding staffing levels and withdrawal of beds at Broadford and Portree Hospitals. His letter included the most recent reply he had received from NHS Highland in response to these concerns and which outlines a number of points:

• "The decision to remove 6 beds in Portree and 2 in Broadford was made based on clinical activity data and bed occupancy figures over a number of years which demonstrated these beds were not being used."
• "Delays in discharge do occur due to the availability of ‘care at home' services, care home places and availability of local authority funding. This is being actively managed by local managers to ensure that patients are discharged as timeously as possible."
• "There are many patients in the North of Skye who are assessed in Portree Hospital first and then transferred on to Broadford for treatment based on a medical assessment not the availability of beds. In the case of a medical emergency, patients will be assessed and treated by the ambulance staff at the scene and taken to Broadford for further assessment. A joint protocol has been agreed between NHS Highland and SAS indicating where patients should be taken in the case o an emergency."
• "The staffing levels in Portree are above the level that has been assessed as appropriate, in contrast at Broadford there are a number of staff on maternity leave which leaves the service difficult to staff without the use of bank staff or temporary contracted staff in the absence of being able to utilise the staff in both hospitals more effectively."
• "A consultation process was undertaken with the staff to find a workable solution and the option of merged contracts was brought forward as a means of utilising nursing skills and expertise effectively across both sites. All staff and their representatives have been involved in the decision making process, further options were not identified, and the staff contracts were changed to reflect the new arrangements in December 2009."
• "It has been recognised that the travel between the two sites is an issue and the impact this has on the working day: we have agreed some principles to address the concerns and are still exploring other avenues to improve the situation. There continues to be discussions with staff and their representatives to reach an acceptable conclusion."

Charles Kennedy's letter also stated that he remains deeply concerned that it is not proving possible to debate the future of hospital provision for Skye & Lochalsh without a greater degree of frankness from NHS Highland about their true intentions.

4.6. Email to the Community Council website from Lesley Hellon regarding http://www.okskate.org.uk/. The half pipe is to be situated in Broadford for approximately one month from late February 2010 for young people to use. It can be used unsupervised 24/7 and a couple of skateboards will also be left with the pipe for anyone to use. Denis Gould emailed Nicholas Kelly of Broadford Youth Club to inform him.

4.7. Letter from Broadford Childrens Play Association thanking the Community Council for their £1,348 donation towards the MUGA project. The project is progressing well and they will keep the Community Council updated about it.

5. Ward 11 Community Council Boundary Consultation.

The following was received from Jan Laing, Eilean a' Cheo Ward Manager:

Ward 11 elected members have discussed the issue of Community Council boundaries and have noted the comments on the boundaries made by individual Skye Community Councils to date. The proposals made by the various Community Councils do not raise concerns as such from elected members. Elected members discussed whether this review could be an opportunity to radically look at the existing Community Council boundaries with a view to reducing the current provision of sixteen Community Councils. As an example of a radical overhaul of current arrangements, elected members considered a reduction in the number of Community Councils to three. The proposals are North, Central and South. The North would comprise Kilmuir, Staffin, Uig, Skeabost, Waternish, Glendale and Dunvegan, giving a total population of 3,581. The Central would comprise of  Portree, Braes, Minginish and Struan, giving a total population of 3,297. The South would comprise of Kyleakin & Kylerhea, Broadford & Strath, Sleat, Raasay and Sconser, giving a total population of 2,987.

Elected members also discussed issues relating to the funding of Community Councils. The following points were noticed: Could the funding arrangements be reviewed, funding should be allocated on a population basis. The current system means that, apart from Portree, all the Skye Community Councils receive the same grant, irrespective of population figures. In terms of funding Community Councils, could there be more of a service level agreement type arrangement which requires the Community Councils to fulfil certain functions in return for the funding received? For example, a requirement to pay members expenses for travel to a Ward Forum Meeting and a requirement to consult within the communities.

Elected members are aware that these proposals could be viewed as controversial by existing Community Councils, however, they recognise the need to discuss this further with Community Councils and the comments should be viewed as a starting point for discussion. In line with the agreement to hold a forum meeting dedicated to Community Council issues, it is intended to discuss this issue in more detail at such a meeting in advance of the next phase of consultation.

Following discussion, concern was raised regarding a number of issues: large geographical areas; fair representation from each community within these areas; how many members would sit on each Community Council; larger meeting may put off members of the public attending to raise issues of concern; a fear that smaller communities may not be considered fairly within a larger geographical area; extra travelling costs to Community Council meetings given larger areas covered; means by which community consultation will be expected take place; representation of different small communities within the boundaries will be lost.

6. Skye & Lochalsh Health Services Workshop. Tony Moore attended this workshop on Friday 12^th February 2010. It has been widely reported in the press via the NHS press release http://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk/News/Pages/SkyeandLochalshWorkshop.aspx.

80+ delegates attended and Community Councils were well represented. It was clearly stated that this was about Skye, Lochalsh and Wester Ross. The aims of the event were to give feedback on the engagement exercise; to provide accurate information on needs assessment and finance; to provide information on the national perspective, in particular on the balance of care for long term conditions and reshaping care for older people; to provide information on current services; to provide an opportunity for delegates to ask questions and clarify any outstanding issues; to provide an opportunity for delegates to assist in prioritising actions for the future.

It was clearly stated that Portree Hospital will not close in the foreseeable future. It was also stated that there will be no new hospital in Broadford in the next 4 to 5 years because of the current financial climate.

Mid Highland Community Health Partnership (CHP) has a total of £71M of which £11.7M was allocated to Skye & Lochalsh. This will fall to £11.5M next year. NHS Highland has a deficit of £16.9M and the CHP have to find savings of £2M. The financial problems faced by NHS Highland are not local but part of a nationwide problem and, as a consequence of this, there will be no funding for capital bids.

Suggestions made for improvements and ways of saving money were: better use of telemedicine consultations, where appropriate, to save long distance travel for follow up consultations: focus on early intervention and preventative medicine; increased support for patients and their families to help them manage health issues; review of transport issues; better integration between health professionals and social care; improved communications across all agencies. The event closed with the confirmation that local dialogue will continue as Mid Highland CHP continue to address the issues affecting local services.

7. Broadford Medical Centre Project.

Caroline Gould attended the second meeting of the new Broadford Medical Centre Project Team on Wednesday 24^th February 2010. It was a very positive meeting. The architects were unfortunately unable to attend because of the snow but they did phone through on a telephone conference call for the duration of the meeting. Caroline asked for clarification on whether the project was to build a Medical Practice or a Health Centre (as the NHS press release had stated) and, given that it was to be a medical centre, she asked for a press release to correct this as members of the public seemed under the impression that a Health Centre was to be built which would have the same services as the Lochalsh Health Centre in Kyle (e.g. dentist, etc). This is misleading.

The architects have drawn up plans and will be meeting with the user group on Wednesday 3^rd March 2010 to discuss their accommodation needs. Caroline Gould also highlighted that after the new Lochalsh Health Centre opened in 2008 in Kyle, an access audit was undertaken on the new building and it was found to fail to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act for a number of reasons, some of which cannot now be easily rectified. These were:

• Lift too small for wheelchair user and assistant to use together.
• Heavy door and security pad make dental department inaccessible unless someone is called to open door.
• Hoist in dental surgery cannot be used for larger patients and is actually fitted the wrong way round.
• Lack of signage for disabled parking facilities and more parking spaces required.
• Door to waiting area is very difficult to open for someone entering in a wheelchair, with a children's buggy or with a support dog.
• Accessible toilet not accessible because pipe work installed inside room has narrowed access; no drop down bar; toilet roll holder not accessible from toilet seat without movement from the seat; handrail on one side only.
• Other toilets not at all accessible for someone with limited vision or mobility.
• Relatively low level lighting and lack of wall/floor contrast make it difficult for partially sighted people to see along main corridor of GP surgery.

Such errors should be avoided in terms of planning the new medical centre in Broadford.

The road leading to the new medical practice will have to be upgraded. A new topographical survey of the site will not be required as an earlier survey/trial report has been acquired. The medical centre is currently putting together a list of equipment that can be transferred from the current premises to the new building. It is hoped that a draft plan for the new medical centre will be available for discussion at the next meeting on Wednesday 31^st March 2010 and the aim is to find the best solution at a reasonable cost. If this will be more than the £1M available then it will be necessary to return to the Asset Management Group to seek more money.

8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. Broadford War Memorial. Karl Ross highlighted the continuing need for remedial work on the war memorial and the steps leading to it. Denis Gould had been in touch with TEC services in an attempt to resolve this but has heard no more from them. Caroline Gould has learned that it is possible to apply for small grants for certain work to be done on war memorials. Marie Noble asked that TEC Services be informed that a risk assessment needs to be undertaken because the situation is so bad now.  

8.2. Broadford Village Flower Tubs. Anita Jones is to meet with Ron Johnstone in the next few days to discuss landscaping the areas where the current tubs need to be replaced. Karl Ross may also attend. Caroline Gould reminded Anita that the bulbs in the current tubs are to be retained and given to Stan Donaldson for the Community Garden. Following discussion, it was agreed that any decisions around replacing the flower tubs should be based on minimal maintenance requirements.

8.3. Village Officer. Anita Jones is to submit an application form for funding for a Village Officer after discussion with Jan Laing, Eilean a' Cheo Ward Manager..

9. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 5^th April 2010 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting of 1st February 2010

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 1^st FEBRUARY 2010

AT BROADFORD VILLAGE HALL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

Also in attendance:

John Stoddart and Kenny Stoddart.

AGENDA

•1. Apologies.

Anita Jones (Treasurer) and Denis Gould.

•2. Minute of Meetings of 7^th and 14^th December 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Marie Noble. Seconded by Tony Moore.

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Portacabins at Broadford Hotel Car Park. One Portacabin and one metal container still remain. Marie Noble reported that Highland Council's Planning Department are aware of the problem and are trying to resolve it.

3.2. Broadford Village Christmas Tree. Tony Moore and his wife Maggie Ann removed the lights from the Christmas tree and removed as much of the tree as possible. The remainder of the tree will be removed once it has had a chance to dry out. Caroline Gould thanked Tony and Maggie Ann for all their hard work in challenging weather conditions.

3.3. Limepark Garden Project. This project is ongoing. Tony Moore reported that the Treasurer, Anita Jones, had received a cheque from Highland Council for the project.

3.4. Travellers. Travellers appear to have abandoned two caravans at Ashaig. Travellers appear to still be encamped at the Forestry car park. Tony Moore to check on the situation and, if necessary speak to the Forestry Commission.

3.5. Childrens Play Association. Tony Moore reported that the Treasurer, Anita Jones, had still not had a response from John MacDonald of Highland Council regarding the Playing Field monies held by the Community Council.

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from the Rotary Club of Portree and District looking for nominations for the Maurice Nicholl award of a suitable individual or group who have performed outstanding service in the community. John Stoddart suggested nominating Broadford Youth Club and he and Kenny Stoddart outlined the tremendous improvements that have been made in the youth club in the last few years. It was agreed that Broadford Youth Club be nominated. Marie Noble to action.

4.2. Leaflets advertising "Take One Action!" film festival Scottish tour February 2010. It is coming to the Fingal Centre in Portree on 19^th February and to Arainn Chaluim Chille in Sleat on 20^th February 2010.

4.3. Invitation to the Chairperson to attend a Skye Health Services Workshop on Friday 12^th February 2010 at the Dunollie Hotel in Broadford where the findings of the recent public engagement exercise will be considered.

4.4. Highland Council press release notifying that a £3M roadworks project is about to begin at Sconser.

4.5. A response to Tony Moore's letter of 8^th December 2009 to Highland Council's Environmental Health Department regarding the traveller's encampment at the Broadford Forestry car park. Housing and Property Services take the lead role within Highland Council when dealing with unauthorised encampments and have made a number of visits to the Broadford Forestry site. While Environmental Health officers to not have specific powers to deal with unauthorised encampments, they do have general powers under the Environmental Protection Act to require the abatement of statutory nuisances. Environmental Health officers recently visited the site, following complaints, and found it to be untidy it was not felt that conditions were such as to constitute a statutory nuisance. The legislation is not particularly useful for dealing with such encampments as it is usually impossible to prove which individuals were responsible for creating the conditions giving rise to the nuisance. Where the persons responsible for the nuisance cannot be identified, the legislation requires Environmental Health to take action against the owner of the land on which any nuisance arises, however, this is rarely appropriate in the case of unauthorised encampments unless the landowners were in some way consenting to the creation of the nuisance. In the case of the Broadford Forest, the land is owned by Forest Enterprise and they are currently taking legal action to seek recovery of the site. This is the most appropriate way of dealing with the situation.

4.6. Received from Jan Laing, Eilean a' Cheo Ward Manager, a new application form for funding for the Village Officer.

4.7. Scottish Air Ambulance Service letter regarding the recent public engagement exercise held in Eden Court in Inverness on 21^st January 2010, which attracted only 6 people. Details of how to participate in the engagement exercise can be found at

http://www.scottishambulance.com/AirAmbulance/AirAmbulanceConsultation.aspx

•5. Highland School Review.

Willie Inglis raised the subject regarding Highland Council's Education, Culture and Sports committee's recent decision to review its school estate.

http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourcouncil/news/newsreleases/2010/January/2010-01-14-10.htm

Concern was expressed that some local schools could be considered for closure so it was decided to keep a close eye on developments regarding this issue. Tony Moore also said that he would bring this to the attention of the Parent Council at Elgol Primary School.

•6. Broadford Medical Centre Project.

Caroline Gould attended the first meeting of the new Broadford Medical Centre Project Team on Wednesday 27^th January 2010. It was a very positive meeting. £1M has been allocated for the development of the replacement Broadford Medical Practice utilising the Greenfield site between the current hospital and An Acarsaid without compromising the opportunity to also develop hospital based services there at a future date and also to maintain a close relationship with the local authority and An Acarsaid. Caroline said that she had requested a press release in order that the community could be notified as this had been promised last year as soon as the decision had been made. It was agreed that one would be issued. A small user group of clinical users will have initial discussions on the design requirements in terms of a schedule of accommodation and then take this to the overall development group. Following discussion it was decided that a single floor plan property would take up too much of the available land so the design is likely to cover two floors. If the property is to be over two floors then a lift will have to be installed to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) but decisions need to be made as to how much of what goes on the upper floor will be for patient access and/or staff only.

An assurance was made that all building work and parking facilities would be DDA compliant and that the intention was to future proof the building as much as possible. It is expected provision will be made for 25 parking spaces and disabled parking. Sound proofing and the need for meeting rooms for visiting dietician, diabetic retinopathy screening, psychiatrist, podiatrist, staff meeting and staff training, etc. was also discussed. The budget is very tight given the requirements. Every square metre is likely to cost in the region of £2,000 to build and £90 per year to run so it will have to be proven how, and how frequently, any space required will be used. The next meeting will be on Wednesday 24^th February 2010 at 2.00pm.

•7. A.O.C.B.

7.1. Broadford War Memorial. Karl Ross stated that remedial work is still required on the war memorial. It was stated that the memorial is very difficult for mobility impaired people to get to and a suggestion was made that consideration should be given to moving it beside the community garden where more people could see it and attend the memorial service there annually.

7.2. Christmas Lights. A donation of £150 towards Christmas lights has been received from Seonaid Nicolson which was raised through a Whist Drive. A letter of thanks is to be sent for the donation. Caroline Gould also reported that following the success of our Christmas tree lights, Agnes Dougan and other nurses at the hospital have stated that they  wish to fund raise toward more Christmas light for the village. The Community Council needs to look into how they can facilitate more lights, in terms of electrical connection, etc. Caroline Gould will look into this. Hamish Fraser was to look into the possibility of further electrical supplies in the archway of the community garden but he has yet to get back to us on this. It was also suggested that we should seek sponsorship from companies, such as Leiths for more Christmas lights.

7.3. Planning Application for Change of use from a care home to a 42 bed hostel (Class 7) at Strathcare, Broadford. As a result of a number of complaints regarding this application, the Community Council looked at the application. Following discussion, it was agreed to object to the application for a number of reasons: security, patient privacy, fire regulations, inadequate parking facilities and access to hospital for emergency vehicles.

7.4. Dog Excrement on Pier Road, Broadford. Willie Inglis highlighted the amount of dog excrement appearing on the Pier Road when there were dog excrement bins provided nearby. He asked if we could put something in the West Highland Free Press to highlight the problem.

•8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 1^st March 2010 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting of 7th December 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 7^TH DECEMBER 2009

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Also in attendance:

Jan Laing, Eilean a' Cheo Ward Manager, Highland Council, John Laing, Local Councillor, Inspector Duncan MacLean, Northern Constabulary, Liz Williams, Housing & Property, Highland Council, Lewis Mackay, Alan Smith, Norma Smith, Elaine Smith, Andrew Mackinnon, Donald MacLennan, Murray Smith, Douglas Anderson, Gemma Nicolson, Jessie Nicolson, Alasdair Anderson, Caroline Stevenson, George Stevenson, Jessica MacLennan, Jonathan Nicolson, Angus Macphie, Angus Sutherland, James Phimister, John Mackinnon, John Gillies, Gillian McCallum, Sandy Finlay, Raymond Orr, Jacqui Macleod, Thomas Hugill, Cath White, Mandy MacKinnon, Sandra Robertson, Stephen Robertson, John Davie, Scott Mackinnon, Ashley Fraser Darling, David Robertson, Bryan Mattinson, Kevin Currie, Alistair Macrae, David Smith, Angus MacDonald, Gordon McCarroll, Laura Mattinson, Callum Mattinson, W. Macpherson, Angus Macleod.

Please note that this meeting only covered agenda items 2, 5 and 6 so the meeting was reconvened on Monday 14^th December 2009 at Broadford Hotel to deal with the remainder of the agenda. At the latter meeting:

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

Also in attendance:

Nicholas Kelly, representing Broadford Children's Play Association, Raymond Orr, Kenny Stoddart and John Stoddart.

AGENDA

•1. Apologies.

Willie Inglis and Karl Ross on 7^th December. None on 14^th December.

•2. Minute of Meeting of 28^th August 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Denis Gould. Seconded by Anita Jones.

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Portacabins at Broadford Hotel Car Park. Marie Noble reported having been in contact with Victor Hawthorne of the Planning Department. He confirmed that they are aware of the problem and that they are trying to progress the situation.

3.2. Village Christmas Tree. The Christmas tree was supplied by the John Muir Trust, erected by the Fire Service, dressed by the Community Council and connected to the power supply by the Lighting Department of Highland Council. It was agreed that we should send a letter of thanks to the John Muir Trust and donate a tin of biscuits to the bothy at Srathaird (Tony Moore to action) and a letter of thanks and a donation of £25 to the Fire Service (Marie Noble to action).

3.3. Limepark Garden Project.  Tony Moore has spoken with Eoin MacLeod. The largest stone for the garden has been delivered but needs to be cut before it is put into place.

3.4. Christmas Festive Group. Karl Ross provided information regarding events which was passed on to Highland Council for publication.

3.5. Eilean a' Cheo Community Council Forum or Association. (See item 9 below).

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. Digital outreach information regarding the TV digital switchover.

4.2. Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association newsletter.

4.3. Tony Moore wrote to the Environmental Health Department regarding the travellers camping on the Forestry site following the meeting on Monday 7^th December.

4.4. Letter from Highland Council regarding our response to the Highland wide Local Development Plan.

4.5. Crown Estate leaflet - Highland and Islands update.

4.6. Invitation for a representative from the Community Council to sit on the Broadford Medical Practice Design Team.

4.7. Response to Tony Moore's letter regarding the Highland Council Draft Local Transport Strategy.

4.8. Email from Jan Laing, Ward Forum Manager, giving notice of bridge repairs at Kilmaree and Elgol to be undertaken in early 2010.

•5. Broadford Break-ins.

Members of the public expressed their concerns that a house in Broadford had been broken into one Saturday afternoon and that the general perception was that some of the travellers were responsible. It had been reported in the West Highland Free Press that there had been nothing to link that break-in with the travellers and this was confirmed by Inspector MacLean. He also stated that there were two people currently in prison for other recent local break-ins. It was stated that there seemed to be very little communication to the public in general regarding the fact that people had been charged and sentenced for these crimes, however, Inspector MacLean explained that although this information was made available, Northern Constabulary had no say in whether such information was published in, for example, a local newspaper. A member of the public raised their fear and concern that some members of the community might take action themselves if the problem wasn't being seen to be dealt with. It was made clear that such vigilante action would be illegal and that no decent member of the community should countenance any such action.

•6. Travellers.

Jan Laing, Eilean a' Cheo Ward Forum Manager, said that she was contacted at the end of July by the Forestry Commission whose land the travellers are camped on beside Broadford Cemetery. Highland Council's policy is clear in terms of the non harassment of travellers and a representative of the Council's Housing & Property Services visited the camp site, checked on the needs of those there, advised them of the services available in the area and arranged for bins to be provided and emptied. At a later date, the Forestry Commission reported to Highland Council that some of their workers had been verbally abused by some of the travellers and that they were looking to the Council to provide their support in attempting to evict the travellers from that site. Highland Council agreed to support this and the Forestry Commission gave informal notice to the travellers to leave. Some of them left but the remainder have stayed so the Forestry Commission will soon be giving them formal notification to leave the site.

Inspector MacLean explained that the police had approached the remaining travellers informally and been told that they would be leaving by the end of the week beginning 7^th December. He also confirmed that the police had not received any formal approach from the Forestry Commission to take any enforcement action and explained that the police could not instigate any action themselves alone as they are bound by the Multi-Action Protocol which involves integrated action from Highland Council (education, social work, health) etc. and without receiving any formal request to take action, which they haven't as yet received, then the policy is one of non harassment.

Jan Laing stated that once the site has been cleared then it is the intention of the Forestry Commission to secure it and clean it up. Concern was expressed that the site should still be available as a community amenity site and it was confirmed that this should be the intention. It was suggested that Jan Laing follow this up and that the Community Council also write a letter to the Forestry Commission expressing their concern. John Laing, Local Councillor, stated that he was confident that all the appropriate guidelines were being followed correctly. Concern was raised that Highland Council was not taking action with regard to environmental health issues on the site. Jan Laing said that she would check out the situation with regard to environmental health issues.

It was made clear that eviction action could only be taken when a complaint had been received from the land owner; however, Inspector MacLean confirmed that a report had gone to the Procurator Fiscal regarding complaints to the police by members of the public that they had been attacked and bitten by a dog belonging to the travellers.

Concern was raised by members of the public that there didn't seem to be a regular visible police patrol in the area but Inspector MacLean explained that he had a large area to be covered by his officers, and with finite resources, but in fact there is a regular police presence and there are also police in the area in unmarked police cars so the police presence is not always generally visible to members of the public.

Members of the public stressed that there had been a recent considerable rise in crime in the area and the perception was that it was connected to the travellers. This has made local people feel vulnerable. Some people expressed that they felt intimidated when they tried to visit Broadford Cemetery. Inspector MacLean said that any complaints should be made directly to the police who would then investigate each matter accordingly. The Community Council explained that members of the public could always bring community problems such as this to the attention of the Community Council but prior to this no one has raised the subject. The meeting made clear the depth of feeling of the community and Jan Laing confirmed that action would be being taken. She also confirmed the importance of members of the public using Community Council meetings in order to raise community issues which can then be dealt with and resolved.

Further to the meeting of Monday 7^th December, the Forestry Commission were to serve a 28-day notice to quit to the travellers on Forestry land beside Broadford Cemetery on 14^th December and 14-day notices were to be put on apparently abandoned vehicles and caravans.

Information regarding Highland Council's policy on travellers and unauthorised camping can be found at http://www.highland.gov.uk/livinghere/housing/gypsytravellersinhighland/travellersandunauthorisedcamping/.

•7. NHS Highland.

7.1. Health Service Workshop.

The NHS Skye & Lochalsh workshop to discuss service provision has been postponed from 10^th December until early 2010, on a date yet to be announced.

7.2. Broadford Medical Practice Design Team.

Kate Earnshaw, the newly appointed Clinical Services Development Manager for NHS Skye & Lochalsh wrote to the Chairperson, Tony Moore, regarding the proposals to develop a new build  Broadford Medical Practice on a Greenfield site which are due to begin in the spring of 2010. Caroline Gould will represent the Broadford & Strath Community Council on the design team. As there has been no press release regarding the decision to build a new medical practice on a Greenfield site it was felt that the Chairperson should contact Kate Earnshaw and ask that this decision be made generally known within the community, by way of notice in the West Highland Free Press, as had been previously promised.

•8.  Broadford Children's Play Association.

Congratulations were expressed to the Children's Play Association on their recent success in the STV People's Millions win of £50,000 towards the MUGA project. Nicholas Kelly provided a letter from Highland Council confirming that they would be responsible for maintaining the MUGA area. Nicholas also confirmed applications had been made for further funding for the project. A letter received by the Community Council from the Children's Play Association outlined some of the fundraising efforts towards this project. It was explained that, at our November meeting, Hamish Fraser stated that Highland Council was meant to have clawed back the money held in the Community Council's Playing Field account, which the Children's Play Association was looking to receive towards the MUGA project, as this had been agreed some years ago by a previous Community Council and the money had been included in the calculations when raising money for the Play Park and had also triggered other funding. The Treasurer, Anita Jones, subsequently wrote to John MacDonald of Highland Council regarding this matter but, as yet, has not had a response. Following discussion it was unanimously agreed that, assuming that Highland Council confirms that they agree that the Community Council is free to distribute this money, and then a cheque will be sent to the Broadford Children's Play Association for the MUGA project.

•9.  Eilean a' Cheo Community Council Forum.

Tony Moore reported back from the meeting in Portree on 3^rd November. It was agreed that a Community Council E-Forum which would allow members of all Community Councils on Skye to come together to share information would be of great benefit and it was decided that two Ward Forum meetings per year would be dedicated solely to Community Council business.

•10. A.O.C.B.

10.1. Broadford War Memorial. Karl Ross reported that work still needs to be done on the War Memorial. Denis Gould is to email TEC Services about this again and will copy the email to Hamish Fraser who, at the November meeting, said that he would look into it.

•11. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 4^th January 2010 at 7.30pm in Broadford Village Hall. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

Minute of Meeting of 2nd November 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 2^ND NOVEMBER 2009

AT ELGOL VILLAGE HALL

 

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Karl Ross

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

 

Also in attendance:

Mairi Henderson

Hamish Fraser, Local Councillor.

 

AGENDA

 

•1. Apologies.

None.

 

•2. Minute of Meeting of 28^th August 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved subject to agreed amendments. Proposed by Willie Inglis. Seconded by Karl Ross.

 

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Planning Application, Waterfront, Broadford. Willie Inglis raised the point that he thought that it was the policy of the Community Council not to object to planning applications and that he thought that this had been agreed at an earlier meeting. Denis Gould stated that this was incorrect as it had been agreed previously that although the Community Council would not necessarily look into every planning application, however, if an application was brought to the attention of the Community Council by members of the public then the Community Council would look into it and decide whether or not to comment on it. The application raised at the previous meeting had been brought to the attention of the Community Council by several members of the public who asked the Community Council to look into it and, as a result of discussion with the Chairperson, Tony Moore, it was deemed appropriate to obtain copies of the application and to discuss it at the meeting in October, where it was the unanimous decision of the Community Council to lodge an objection to the application. Tony Moore confirmed that, under the Local Government Act 1973, the Community Council has a statutory right to be consulted on local planning issues and to express the views of the local community where appropriate.

 

3.2. Portacabins at Broadford Hotel Car Park. One Portacabin and two containers still remain but the skip has been removed. However, it would now appear that two washing machines have been dumped in its place. It was decided that an enquiry regarding the problem should be raised with Victor Hawthorne of the Planning Department in order to see if there is an extant permission for them to remain there. Marie Noble to action.

 

3.3. Broadford MUGA pitch. Caroline Gould informed everyone that the STV People's Millions competition which the MUGA pitch project was taking part in would be held in the week beginning Monday 23^rd November and that the phone number for people to ring to register their votes would be available for people to call on the day that the Muga pitch project would go up against one other participating competitor. Up to ten phone calls can be made from each landline telephone on the day. It is important that people telephone the number to register their vote and support the project.

 

3.4. Broadford Medical Practice. Hamish Fraser said that the building of the new surgery should begin in the spring of 2010. This has been approved. Anita Jones and Karl Ross asked why Kate Earnshaw had not notified the Community Council of this as she had stated that she would as soon as the decision had been made. Hamish Fraser suggested that the Community Council contact Gill McVicar or Kate Earnshaw about it.

 

3.5. Broadford Village Christmas Tree. Tony Moore asked Denis Gould to contact him on the next good weather day that he would be available in order that they could meet up to secure the pipe which holds the village Christmas tree in the Community Garden. Denis Gould asked Hamish Fraser if arrangements were any further forward to install an electrical power supply in the archway entrance to the Community Garden which might also include secure boxed electrical sockets for the Christmas tree lights and possibly additional Christmas lights. Hamish stated that he had discussed the possibility of a single light source in the archway but there appeared to be a cost element involved which had so far prohibited this. He said that he would chase this up.

 

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. A Guide to the Planning System in Scotland. This document for information

 

4.2. Letter from Cameron Kemp, Integrated Transport Manager, Highland Council, looking for views on how transport systems in the Highlands should be developed. Responses can be made online and are required by Tuesday 11^th November 2009. Tony Moore to respond regarding the lack of integration of various transport services, etc.

 

4.3. Letter from the Circle of Care asking for a donation towards the cost of the Christmas Dinner for senior citizens. It was agreed to donate £350. Hamish Fraser advised that we should also ask that our donation be included in any public acknowledgement that the Circle of Care might make. Marie Noble to action.

 

4.4. Invitation from the Information Commissioners Office regarding a compliance roadshow to be held in Inverness on the evening of Wednesday 25^th November 2009. This is to be directed towards small and medium sized businesses as well as larger private sector enterprises.

 

4.5. Emails regarding the Limepark Garden Project.

 

4.6. Notification of changes of fees for Data Protection.

 

4.7. Newsletter and Annual Report from the Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association.

 

•5. Limepark Garden Project.

Tony Moore has met with Eoin Macleod. Due to the illness of the contractor, the project has unfortunately had to be delayed for some time. Work has now commenced but a crane will be required to put the largest (11 foot high) stone into place. Tony hopes to be there to take photographs of this. Anita Jones has been in touch with John MacDonald at Highland Council in order to clarify information about the account and the outstanding money for the project. The original quotation for the work, dated 6^th March 2007, amounted to £5,500. Highland Council agreed to fund the project to a maximum of £5,000, of which £1,874 was paid direct to Stone Source Limited in November 2007 for the purchase of stone. Highland Council is holding the balance of £3,126. If the project is going ahead then Highland Council would prefer to pay that sum to the Community Council so that all the costs of the project could be directed there.

 

•6. Village Flower Tubs.

The village flower tubs need to be scrapped over the winter period and consideration needs to be given to their replacement. Anita Jones suggested that we have a site meeting with Ron Johnstone to discuss possible proposals. We need to think more about the type of container required and discuss it at a future meeting.

 

•7.  Xmas Festive Group.

Highland Council is trying to put together a festive group to try to support visitors to the area over the festive period. It is a way of putting together information on any events of interest to visitors to be included in their promotional literature. Jan Laing, Ward Forum Manager, has asked if the Community Council could highlight any such information to be included in this. Karl Ross to action this.

 

•8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. Playing Field.

Hamish Fraser stated that Highland Council was supposed to have clawed back the money held in the Community Council's Playing Field account as this had been agreed some years ago by a previous Community Council and the money had been included in the calculations when raising money for the Play Park and had also triggered other funding. Tony Moore explained that we have already been considering a number of approaches requesting this money. It was agreed that we should approach John MacDonald in Highland Council for clarification on this matter. Anita Jones to action this.

 

8.2. Eilean a' Cheo Community Council Forum or Association. The initial meeting to discuss the value and potential of creating a dedicated forum for the association of Skye Community Councils is to be held in Portree on Tuesday 3^rd November 2009. Following discussion, it was agreed that Tony Moore should attend and report back.

 

8.3. Broadford War Memorial. It was pointed out that remedial work is still required on the war memorial. Hamish Fraser confirmed that some work had been carried out a few years ago. Denis Gould said that he had recently reported to TEC Services that some work was required on the base of the memorial and that holes in the steps leading up to the memorial needed repair and that the handrail needed to be painted. Hamish Fraser said that he would look at it.

 

8.4. Broadford Village Christmas Tree. Tony Moore is to arrange for a Christmas tree to be obtained from the John Muir Trust. Denis Gould will arrange for the Fire Service to erect it. Tony Moore and Denis and Caroline Gould will liaise to dress the tree with the lights once it has been erected and Caroline Gould will arrange for Highland Council's Lighting Department to connect the tree lights to an electricity supply as soon as possible after that.

 

•9. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 7^th December 2009 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

Minute of Meeting of 5th October 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 5^TH OCTOBER 2009

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Karl Ross

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

 

Also in attendance:

Ron Johnstone (Lusan Landscapes), Stan Donaldson, Janet Donaldson, and Nicholas Kelly (Broadford Play Association and Broadford Youth Club).

 

AGENDA

 

•1. Apologies.

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chairperson), Marie Noble (Secretary) and Alan Duffield (Broadford Environmental Group).

The chairperson announced that Chris MacKinnon has tendered his resignation from the Community Council due to pressure of other commitments.

 

•2. Minute of Meeting of 28^th August 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Denis Gould. Seconded by Anita Jones.

 

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. The project is ongoing. All materials are on site except for a bulk cement mixer. Eoin Macleod is keen to move the project on and is looking to meet with the chairperson to discuss the project on site.

 

3.2. Junk at Riverbank, Broadford. Reports have come in that the area which has been partially cleared is now being refilled with junk. It was agreed that we monitor this for another month.

 

3.3. Portacabins at Broadford Hotel Car Park. Some more of the Portacabins have been removed. Only one Portacabin and two containers remain and a skip has been provided recently. It was decided to wait another month to see what happens.

 

3.4. Application for sports pitch lining machine. This application will be dealt with early next year.

 

3.5. Japanese Knotweed. Broadford Environmental Group has an ongoing project to eradicate Japanese Knotweed in the village and has advised that it should not be cut by individuals.

 

3.6. Signage at Kilbride. Anita Jones reported that Mark Crowe of Highland Council's TEC Services had informed her that a "No through road" sign would be erected at Kilbride and the white lines on the road would be renewed and that this will be done within this financial year. He has also passed on the complaint about the cattle grid at Kilbride onto someone else for action.

 

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. Map outlining clear identification of the Community Council boundaries which have changed. Tony Moore will discuss this with Jan Laing, the Ward Manager.

 

4.2. Letter from the BBC regarding digital TV switchover presentations to the public in the area. Caroline Gould has emailed the posters regarding this to all members of the Community Council with email facility and to other people.

 

4.3. Scotland Transerv are initiating an Isle of Skye cycle study proposing to provide a cycle route parallel to the A87 from Invergarry to Broadford which would be classified as Route 79 of the National Cycle Network. They are investigating the feasibility of extending this route to the ferry terminal at Uig and have asked for the Community Council's comments. Tony Moore has responded positively suggesting that it would be a benefit to the whole community.

 

4.4. Community skip request at Scullamus.

 

4.5. Association of Scottish Community Councils ballot papers for national officer elections.

 

•5. Village Flower Tubs.

The Broadford village flower tubs are in need of replacement. We need to look at something which requires minimal maintenance but which will look attractive and welcoming. The village community garden has now matured beautifully and is an excellent addition to the village. The Community Council would like to thank those individuals who have been responsible for this achievement. Ron Johnstone stated that the flower tubs have run their course and with the community garden looking so good, he advised that the green should be left as it is once the old tubs have been removed. Alternatively, it would be possible to plant bulbs on a section of the remaining green. Stan Donaldson said that he had discussed this with Heidi, who does a lot of work on the community garden, and he wanted to ask the Community Council if they would be prepared to fund a sack of daffodil bulbs. Ron Johnstone stated that the current bulbs in the village tubs could always be dug out and replanted on the green. He also suggested that what is required is something at a maximum of five key points in the village, which he suggested should be the gateway entrances to the village, outside the bank, the Elgol Road/Shore Road junction, and possibly the village hall or the Shore Road junction near the Serpentarium. The use of containers is expensive in terms of time and maintenance so he advised looking at something more permanent which he suggested could involve building raised circular natural stone beds which would match existing stonework in the village and then planting them with heathers, conifers and other alternative plants which would look attractive but would require less maintenance than the current tubs. Stan Donaldson stated that there had been a problem with vandalism of the lights at the gateways to the village and the lights had to be replaced so a floral display there would add to the attractiveness of the gateway. Denis Gould pointed out that there has been a persistent problem with getting the grass cut at the eastern village gateway. It was agreed that this needed to be resolved for next year. The possibility of various local groups being encouraged to sponsor and maintain various replacements for the village tubs was also suggested by Ron Johnstone. Anita Jones suggested that a site meeting to discuss the replacement of the flower tubs might be advantageous. Ron Johnstone stated that he would be happy to advise the Community Council once they have had a chance to think about it and come up with a range of possible solutions for replacing the village tubs. Stan Donaldson also offered his help if it was required.

 

•6. Playing Field.

Nicholas Kelly produced a diagram of the proposed MUGA pitch. He advised the Community Council that the project is going ahead and has the backing of various sections of the community however it is not yet fully funded. £50,000 of the required £100,000 funding is hoped to be achieved by winning the STV People's Millions competition. £6,000 which was left over from the play park has been put towards this project. Applications have been made to a variety of trusts for funding. Stan Donaldson highlighted the history of the money held in the Playing Field account which was originally for the children's play park. The money has never been drawn on because other organisations have provided for the play park. It was decided that as the money was originally intended for the play park then the Community Council should obtain clarification of who exactly is now responsible for the maintenance of the newly built play park. It was also agreed that consideration of giving any of this money to the MUGA project could only be on the proven basis that it has already achieved the full amount of funding required for the project and that it was clear who would be in charge and who would be responsible for maintenance. Nicholas Kelly said that he would provide written evidence that the play park and MUGA pitch would be maintained by Highland Council and confirmation of the sources through which the full £100,000 funding is achieved.

 

•7. A.O.C.B.

7.1. NHS Highland Consultation Questionnaire. It was decided that the Community Council should encourage as many individuals as possible to complete this questionnaire and, to this end, the Community Council agreed to place an advertisement in the West Highland Free Press encouraging people to complete the questionnaire.

 

7.2. Problems on the main trunk roads.  Highland Lib Dem Scottish Parliament candidate Alan MacRae has launched a new website which he hopes will help resolve the widespread dissatisfaction with north west trunk road operator Transerv Scotland. Last winter saw major problems as the main road routes serving much of the north and west Highlands were allowed to deteriorate into an unsafe state which prompted widespread public anger. At present, there is no live monitoring of Transerv Scotland's performance and Mr MacRae hopes to resolve this through his new website http://www.repairourroads.org.uk/. This website allows road users to plot known road defects on a detailed map of the area, thus notifying Scotland Transerv, but also allowing their response to be monitored and published. This initiative has the backing of John Farquhar Munro MSP. The Community Council would also encourage people to use this website to report faults on the main trunk roads.

 

7.3. Broadford Surgery and Hospital. The Community Council expressed concern that the NHS meeting, which was to involve representatives from the Community Council, which was postponed from June, still does not appear to have a specific date. Also, it was hoped that a firm decision regarding the chosen option for a new surgery would have been made and announced publicly by now.

 

7.4. Digital TV presentation. A digital switchover presentation is to be held at Broadford Hotel on 3^rd October from 10am - 1.00 pm.

 

7.5. Christmas tree. The hole for the Christmas tree needs to be secured. Denis Gould and Tony Moore will arrange to do this.

 

7.6. Planning application, Waterfront, Broadford. A number of people have complained to the Community Council regarding this proposal. The Community Council obtained a copy of the plans and, following discussion, it was agreed that the Community Council submit an objection to this application on following basis:

• The overall visual design is not in keeping with surrounding buildings and does not compliment Broadford.
• The lack of footpath to safely cross in front of the building and the lack of disabled access.
• the use of the pick up/drop off area for parking vehicles, including HGVs.
• the limited provision of parking facilities for the proposed flats.
• Bad neighbourhood issues such as lack of provision of suitable bins and smells from cooking on the premises.

 

•8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 2^nd November 2009 at 7.30pm in Elgol Village Hall. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Annual General Meeting of 28th August 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF AGM HELD ON FRIDAY 28^TH AUGUST 2009

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

 

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

 

AGENDA

•1. Apologies.

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chairperson) and Karl Ross.

•2. Minute of Meeting of 3^rd August 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Anita Jones. Seconded by Marie Noble.

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. The Community Council expressed concern at the lack of progress although some more materials have been delivered and the grass has been cut. It is hoped that work can begin fairly soon.

3.2. Junk at Riverbank, Broadford. The junk continues to be cleared.

3.3. Portacabins at Broadford Hotel Car Park. Marie Noble has contacted UBC again and was promised a return call but has not yet received this. She has also emailed UBC and awaits a response. Marie Noble will contact Victor Hawthorne of the Highland Council Planning Department regarding this matter.

3.4. Playing Field. Following the receipt of two letters requesting funding, Eilidh Mackay (Broadford Children's Play Association), Nicholas Kelly (Broadford Youth Club) and Julie Stoddart (Broadford Youth Club) will be invited to the October Community Council meeting. Marie Noble will send the invitations and will contact Highland Council regarding responsibility for the playing field.

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. Letter from Broadford Youth Club requesting a contribution towards the cost of a sports pitch lining machine.

4.2. Action for Planning Transparency (APT) This is a group made up of members of the public, is based in the Highlands of Scotland, and whose objectives are
to encourage honest and open debate between communities and planners; to create a focus for communities and a sharing of experience in planning matters; to raise public awareness of the planning process, and strengthen the participation of local people in all stages of that process. There are changes occurring in planning and the Community Council is requested to provide feedback. Comments must be made by the 9^th November 2009.

•5. AGM.

5.1. Chairman's Report.

The Chairman, Tony Moore, provided the following report which was unanimously approved.

Following the demise of the previous Community Council an election process was initiated which resulted in the reformation of the Broadford & Strath Community Council. The first meeting, which was held on 1 September 2008, was concerned with the election of office bearers and initial discussions regarding Community Council role and function and the need for training and support.

At subsequent meetings which were held on the first Monday of every month in a variety of locations and premises members started to come to terms with a wide range topics. It became apparent, as the year progressed, that significant fact finding was necessary on many aspects of traditional Community Council business as there had been no formal handover, limited continuity of membership, and a lack of clarity or detail in previous existing minutes.

At an early stage it was determined that all opportunities would be taken to engage not only with the general public but also with the wide range of voluntary organisations established in the area. Press notification of reformation and regular notice of meetings in Criomagan (Free Press) along with invitations to organisations and individuals was initiated.

It was considered essential that the Community Council should attempt to be as inclusive as possible by arranging meetings outwith Broadford but within the Community Council area subject to the availability of suitable accommodation. In this first year 12 meetings have been held in a variety of locations viz.

Broadford Fire Station, Elgol Hall, Breakish Hall and Broadford Hall with regular meetings now held in the Broadford Hotel. In spite of press notices, the posting of minutes and agendas on the Community Company website (http://www.broadfordandstrath.org), public attendance and participation throughout the year has been disappointing.

Since September 2008 Community Council members have:

• Met with representatives from a range of local organisations
• Attended Eilean a' Cheo Ward Forum meetings
• Communicated local concerns and issues to representatives of Highland Council
• Communicated local concerns and issues to Scotland TranServ
• Organised Community skips in a range of locations
• Met with TEC Services to clarify grass cutting responsibilities
• Responded to requests for financial support from organisations
• Responded to requests for general support from organisations
• Applied for funding for replacement Xmas lights
• Monitored development of Limepark Garden Project
• Undertaken traditional Community Council projects e.g. Xmas Tree, Flower Tubs etc.
• Initiated use of Community Company website

The following major issues have dominated Community Council agendas

1.    Broadford Surgery

The Community Council initiated an approach to NHS to participate in consultation on the replacement for Broadford Surgery. Community Council members have;

• Attended NHS Information Awareness Meeting
• Attended and participated in subsequent Broadford Medical Practice Development Group meetings
• Attended and participated in Non Financial Benefits Scoring Exercise
• Organised presentation by NHS Locality General Manager

2.    Skye & Lochalsh Hospitals

The Community Council has voiced opposition to any development leading to a diminution of NHS services in Skye & Lochalsh. The Community Council has:

• Entered into correspondence with MSP and MP.
• Offered support to Portree Community Council in their opposition to bed closures.
• Attended the Portree public meeting on Skye Hospitals

The Community Council will continue to monitor closely all developments relating to these and other major issues as they impact upon local residents and will continue to best represent the community majority view and opinion.

5.2. Treasurer's Report.

Anita Jones, the Treasurer, provided the annual financial report, including audited accounts, which was approved, a copy of which is available on request.

•6. A.O.C.B.

6.1. Following representation from Lusan Landscapes, it was agreed to amend the second sentence of section 8 of the minute of. 1^st June 2009 to read:

"The previous Community Council paid Lusan Landscapes to cut the area of grass from the Serpentarium to the Primary School (i.e. where the Limepark Garden Project is to be situated) and to manage it as a meadow."

6.2. It was reported that the outstanding cheque issued in April has now been encashed.

6.3. No reply has been received from Highland Council to the letter the Community Council sent regarding the broken cattle grid at Kilbride. Anita Jones will inform Highland Council that it has now become a safety issue.

6.4. Japanese Knotweed appears to have become a problem at the east end of the bridge in Broadford, on the shore side. This matter to be discussed at a future meeting.

•7. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 5^th October 2009 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

Minute of Meeting of 3rd August 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 3^rd AUGUST 2009

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Karl Ross

 

AGENDA

•1. Apologies.

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chairperson), Denis Gould and Willie Inglis.

•2. Minute of Meeting of 6^th July 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Karl Ross. Seconded by Marie Noble.

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. Some work has been undertaken: grass cutting and tree felling.

3.2. Junk at Riverbank, Broadford. Some more of the junk has been cleared so it was decided to allow more time for the rest to be cleared.

3.3. Portacabins at Broadford Hotel Car Park. Marie Noble has contacted UBC twice since the last meeting and left a message but no one has yet returned her call. It was decided that she should now write to UBC and copy the letter to Highland Council's Planning Department and to Local Councillor Hamish Fraser.

3.4. Village Flower Tubs. Invitations will go to Ron Johnson of Lusan Landscapes, Alan Duffield and Stan Donaldson of the Broadford Environmental Group and to Hamish Fraser, Local Councillor, to attend the October Community Council meeting to discuss the various issues, including the flower tubs, their replacement, and the Limepark Garden Project. Karl Ross to attend the next Broadford Environmental Group meeting. Caroline Gould to contact Alan Duffield with a view to obtaining a copy of the Broadford Environmental Group minutes.

3.5. John Swinney MSP - Community Council Pilot Schemes. Caroline Gould reported on the two pilot schemes.

3.6. Hole in the sea wall opposite the butcher's shop in Broadford. This has still not been repaired.

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. Planning Applications.

4.2. Newsletter from the Skye & Localsh Council for Voluntary Organisation.

•5. Broadford Surgery.

Caroline Gould attended a meeting of the Broadford Medical Practice Development group on Wednesday 22^nd July 2009. The meeting involved discussion around two of the options in order to assess the detail required for these options which would then enable the financial weighting to be applied to the options so that all four options could then be put forward for a final decision to be made as to which option will get the go ahead for development.

•6. Playing Field.

 The Treasurer, Anita Jones, provided a report on the history of the Community Council's involvement in the Playing Field account. The Community Council is bound by the strict conditions that exist for the use of this money. Following discussion, it was agreed that the Community Council follow up this matter and research fully these conditions before any consideration can be made for the use of this money. Given the recent letter the Community Council received from Broadford Children's Play Association regarding the muga project and requesting £1,000 towards it, it was agreed that a representative of the Broadford Children's Play Association be invited to attend the October Community Council meeting to discuss this matter and that a representative of the muga project be invited to give the Community Council a presentation on the project including the proposed plans and funding.

•7. AGM Requirements.

The AGM will be held at 7.30 pm on Friday 28^th August 2009 in the Broadford Hotel.

•8. A.O.C.B.

8.1. A donation of £113 has been received from Seonaid Nicolson, following a whist drive, which is to go towards Broadford in Bloom. It was agreed that a letter of thanks be sent to Seonaid explaining that the money will be used next year in the proposed plans to replace the village flower tubs.

8.2. It was reported that a cheque issued in April is still outstanding. Marie Noble will pursue this matter.

•9. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is the AGM which is scheduled for Friday 28^th August 2009 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

 

 

Minute of Meeting of 6th July 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

 

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 6^th JULY 2009

 

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

 

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chairperson)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

 

Also present:

Kate Earnshaw (Acting Locality Manager NHS Skye & Lochalsh)

 

 

AGENDA

 

•1. Apologies.

None.

 

•2. Minute of Meeting of 1^st June 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved subject to agreed amendments. Proposed by Marie Noble. Seconded by Karl Ross.

 

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. Chris MacKinnon has tried to contact Eoin Macleod regarding this and will speak to him before the next meeting.

 

3.2. Remedial work required on War Memorial. Denis Gould reported that he is still waiting for George Speed of TEC Services to get back to him on this subject.

 

3.3. Junk at Riverbank, Broadford. Some more of the junk has been cleared so it was decided to allow more time for the rest to be cleared.

 

3.4. Portacabins at Broadford Hotel Car Park. Some of the portacabins have been moved. Marie Noble contact UBC about it and the person she spoke to seemed surprised that all the Portacabins had not been moved.

 

3.5. Village Flower Tubs. Ron Johnson of Lusan Landscapes has said that he would be happy to attend a meeting later in the year to discuss possible choices for replacing the village flower tubs for next year. He has also planted all the village flower tubs and donated the plants. It was agreed that a letter of thanks be sent to him. Karl Ross asked if the flower tubs which are to be replaced could be donated to the Primary School for recycling. It was decided to extend invitations to Alan Duffield and Stan Donaldson of the Broadford Environmental Group and to Hamish Fraser, Local Councillor, to attend the next Community Council meeting in order to discuss the village flower tubs and the Limepark Garden Project.

 

3.6. Grass Cutting at the eastern Broadford gateway. Scotland Transerv have confirmed they will be cutting this area within the next three weeks as they have confirmed that there are no wild orchids in this area.

 

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. A request for Quality Award nominations for the Council.

 

4.2. Highland Archaeological Festival, 3^rd to 18^th October 2009.

 

4.3. Letter from individual regarding erecting a headstone at the north end of Skye. Will direct him to Tigh na Sgire.

 

4.4. Letter from Broadford Children's Play Association regarding the muga games project, requesting £1,000 from the Broadford & Strath Community Council. The letter stated that the Community Council had already agreed to donate this money but this was not the case. Nick Kelly, who attended a meeting regarding this on 5^th January 2009, was advised to put a request for any money in writing and the request would then be considered by the Community Council. It was agreed that a letter should be sent to the Broadford Children's Play Association explaining that we had not agreed to give this amount of money and to request more information regarding the history and funding of the muga games project.

 

4.5. Letter from John Swinney MSP regarding the model scheme and code of conduct for Community Councillors which has been sent to Highland Council. The letter also refers to two Community Council Pilot Schemes which look at how a Community Council might use a small lump sum of money for the benefit of their community. Caroline Gould is to check out the information on the website and report back.

 

•5. Financial Report.

There was a short discussion regarding the current state of the accounts.

 

•6. Broadford Surgery.

Kate Earnshaw provided an update: The option for a new build medical centre for Broadford on a Greenfield site, which was the chosen outcome from the non-financial options appraisal, still looks positive, however, two of the other options need to be better quantified financially so that all the options can be considered financially for a final decision to be made. Once this has been done, the final option will be approved.  If the new Greenfield site medical centre is approved, it is hoped that building work will begin in early 2010. Kate Earnshaw promised to keep the Community Council informed.

 

•7. Skye Hospitals.

Kate Earnshaw provided an update: One single hospital for Skye & Lochalsh will raise the question of where it will be located. The MacKinnon Memorial Hospital is the local acute facility. There will be no increased service provision in a new hospital, such as additional surgery. Any new build hospital will also have to have single ensuite rooms.

 

Pandemic ‘Flu. Kate Earnshaw advised that anyone displaying H1N1 (Swine ‘Flu) symptoms should telephone NHS 24 first rather than going straight to their GP surgery or the hospital as this could lead to the condition spreading more easily when it needs to be isolated. In respect of this, it might also be a good idea for people to think about stocking some dry foods at home in case of such an eventuality. Seasonal ‘flu injections will go ahead as usual this autumn but, on top of that, there will be a series of two Swine ‘Flu vaccinations for children, social care staff and other vulnerable groups. The Community Council expressed their concern that such advice did not seem to be displayed in a variety of public places, other than hospitals and surgeries, when it should also be displayed in Service Points, Village Halls and Community Halls.

 

•8. Village Grass Cutting.

Scotland Transerv are responsible for the verges at the side of the main roads and for the eastern Broadford Gateway. Highland Council are responsible for all the public area grass cutting in the Broadford.

 

•9. A.O.C.B.

 

9.1. Karl Ross reported that there was a new hole at the sea wall directly opposite the butcher's shop in Broadford. He said that a visiting child had fallen in the hole. It was agreed to write to Mark Crowe at Highland council to highlight this problem.

 

9.2. A complaint has been received regarding speeding vehicles in the Harrapool area. It was agreed to highlight this problem to the police.

 

9.3. Flooding on the road in a number of places in the village were discussed.

 

9.4. Bayview Crescent Residents Association confirmed that Jan Laing has sent Charles Campbell a second letter requesting a round table meeting regarding the subject of Bayview Crescent.

 

9.5. Karl Ross reported that he had been unable to obtain access to the last few months Community Council minutes at the Broadford Service Point. Caroline Gould confirmed that she had delivered them to the Service Point and said that she would check up as to what was happening to them that they appeared not to be being made available to the general public as requested.

 

•10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 3^rd August 2009 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

Minute of Meeting of 1st June 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

 

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 1^st June 2009

 

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

 

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Karl Ross

 

 

AGENDA

 

•1. Apologies.

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chairperson) and Willie Inglis.

 

•2. Minute of Meeting of 4^th May 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Karl Ross. Seconded by Anita Jones.

 

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. Chris MacKinnon to keep in contact with Eoin Macleod regarding this.

 

3.2. Remedial work required on War Memorial. Denis Gould reported that he had spoken to Richard Cairns of TEC Services regarding the remedial work that needs to be carried out on the Broadford War Memorial, the steps and the disabled access to it. Richard Cairns has passed the information on to George Speed. Denis Gould will contact George Speed about this.

 

3.3. Junk at Riverbank, Broadford. Some of the junk has been cleared so it was decided to allow more time for the rest to be cleared.

 

3.4. Membership of the Association for Scottish Community Councils. Anita Jones confirmed that the membership which had been renewed recently was to the Skye & Lochalsh Community Councils and that, since the last meeting, she has renewed our membership of the Association for Scottish Community Councils.

 

3.5. Iconic Viewpoints. Tony Moore responded positively regarding signage for a viewpoint at Elgol Pier and also put forward the suggestion for signage at Torrin indicating the view to Blaven.

 

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. Highland Development Plan Scheme 2009. This is a new step towards informing many more people about the way in which land use plans are drawn up (which set out what can be built, and where and when). It is Highland Council's intention to involve a broad range of organisations and the public in making these plans. To this end, the document sets out a timetable of producing a land use plan for the Highlands (the Highland-wide local development plan) and how we can become involved in this production. Caroline Gould will look at this.

 

4.2. Invitation to the Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association AGM on Monday 8^th June 2009.

 

4.3. Planning application lists. No action required at present.

 

4.4. A letter from LIDL thanking them for our interest which has been passed on to their property developer.

 

4.5. Broadford Hotel has stated that the UBC portakabins are to be removed from hotel car park to be taken to another site in Portree on Monday 1^st June 2009. As they had not been removed by this date then Marie Noble will get back to them about this matter.

 

4.6. Letter from Charles Kennedy MP thanking the Community Council for their recent letter. He has noted the points made and was in attendance at the recent public meeting in Portree regarding the hospitals in Skye & Lochalsh and has met with the NHS.

 

4.7. Highlands and Islands update from the Crown Estate. No action required.

 

4.8. Letter from Gill McVicar of the NHS regarding a workshop originally planned for the 4^th June 2009 at Sabhal Mor Ostaig but which, due to the European Elections taking place on that date, has been moved to 12^th June 2009 at a venue yet to be announced. The purpose of the workshop is to discuss the redesign of Skye & Lochalsh Hospital Services.

 

•5. Financial Report.

Anita Jones confirmed that the accounts are currently with Angus MacPhie for auditing. She also confirmed that, in order to qualify for funding for a Village Officer we are required to have less than £2,000 in our accounts, therefore, we currently do not qualify for this.

 

•6. Broadford Surgery.

The outcome from the non-financial options appraisal was discussed: it will go to the Community Health Partnership meeting in June and then to the Capital Planning Group where the financial implications will then be taken into account.

There will be no further development regarding the option chosen at the non-financial options appraisal on 29^th April 2009 until the Community Health Partnership meeting to be held later this month where the financial implications of all four options will be taken into account and a decision made as to which option is to go forward for development.

 

•7. Skye Hospitals.

Tony Moore, Anita Jones and Karl Ross represented Broadford & Strath Community Council at the public meeting held in the Skye Gathering Hall in Portree on Monday 25^th May 2009, regarding Hospital Services in Skye & Lochalsh. . Approximately 200 members of the public attended the meeting along with two MSPs, Charles Kennedy MP, two Eilean a' Cheo Local Councillors, Gill McVicar of the Mid Highland Community Health Partnership and other NHS representatives. There was a lot of criticism regarding the action of the NHS in relation to the recent removal of six beds in Portree Hospital prior to this public meeting to discuss it. A summary of what was discussed at the meeting was provided. The NHS's lack of communication and lack of public consultation and public participation were heavily criticised. The NHS accepted that communication had been at fault. It was stated that there is no plan, at present, to close Portree Hospital and move Hospital Services for Skye & Lochalsh solely to Broadford. The workshop on 12^th June to discuss the redesign of Skye & Lochalsh Hospital Services should provide more information. Tony  Moore will represent the Community Council at the all day workshop.

The NHS Skye and Lochalsh Locality Manager, Kate Earnshaw, has stated that she is happy to attend the next meeting of the Community Council.

 

•8. Village Grass Cutting.

Tony Moore and Anita Jones had a meeting with Mark Crowe of TEC Services, which was also attended by the Ward Manager, Jan Laing. Mark Crowe confirmed that Broadford & Strath Community Council had no responsibility whatsoever for cutting any grass in the Broadford area. The previous Community Council paid Lusan Landscapes to cut the area of grass from the Serpentarium to the Primary School (i.e. where the Limepark Garden Project is to be situated) and to manage it as a meadow. The council does not cut this area because it is privately owned, it is thought, by Sir Iain Noble. Anita Jones pointed out that the Housing Association is providing the funding for the Limepark Garden Project and the Community Council has no responsibility for this project. It was felt that the Community Council should therefore not fund the grass cutting in this area as it is someone else's responsibility, and that the garden project should be completed as soon as possible, particularly as the Community Council are receiving regular complaints about the state of this area of land. Anita Jones suggested that, if the Community Council is not to pay for grass cutting, then the money should perhaps be spent on improving the condition of the 42 flower tubs in the village. After discussion, it was agreed that, given the time of year, as an interim measure, we should approach Lusan Landscapes with regard to planting up the tubs for this summer only and to scrap, but not replace, any tubs that are unfit for current use, pending a review of the situation. It was decided to ask a representative of the Broadford Environmental Group to attend the next Community Council meeting in order to discuss the possibilities for the eventual replacement of the deteriorating flower tubs with something low maintenance in, in the medium to long term.

Scotland Transerv are responsible for the verges at the side of the main roads.

 

•9. A.O.C.B.

 

9.1. Proposed Expenses Claim Form - for claiming essential expenses for Community Council business. The form was approved by everyone present.

 

9.2. Broadford Hotel has stated that they are getting a number of members of the public coming in to the hotel just to use their toilet facilities. The signs at the public toilets in Broadford have faded and are not very visible so the Community Council have been asked to do something about this. The Community Council agreed that Tony Moore should contact Mark Crowe in TEC Services in order to rectify this.

 

9.3. It was reported that some Broadford Hotel guests nearly had an accident last week turning left from Kylerhea onto the A87 as the sightline is obscured. It was agreed to write to Mark Crowe of TEC Services about this problem.

 

9.4. A number of complaints have been made about the cattle grid at Kilbride which has come loose and is very noisy when vehicles drive over it, and the road signs at Kilbride, which cause drivers to turn towards Camas Malag, thinking wrongly that it is the road to Elgol. Anita Jones is to write to Mark Crowe of TEC Services highlighting these issues.

 

9.5. A complaint has been received that the grass in front of the ‘Welcome to Broadford' gateway at the eastern end of the village is now becoming obscured by vegetation. Denis Gould has reported this to Scotland Transerv as they have responsibility for cutting this area and he will keep an eye on it to ensure that it is cut.

 

•10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 6^th July at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

Minute of Meeting of 4th May 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

 

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 4^th MAY 2009

 

AT BROADFORD VILLAGE HALL

 

 

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

 

Also present:

Trish Rogers (representing Broadford Fairtrade Group)

Nicholas Kelly (representing Broadford Village Hall)

 

 

AGENDA

1. Apologies.

None.

2. Minute of Meeting of 6^th April 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Chris MacKinnon. Seconded by Marie Noble.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Limepark Garden Project. Chris MacKinnon reported that he had spoken to Eoin Macleod on Friday 1^st May and had been assured that things are progressing well and that it was hoped that the contractor doing the ground work would be beginning within the next fortnight. It was agreed to keep a watching brief on this project.

3.2. Remedial work required on War Memorial. Denis Gould reported that he had not yet had a response from Richard Cairns of TEC Services regarding the remedial work that needs to be carried out on the Broadford War Memorial, the steps and the disabled access to it. He also stated that he had noticed that in Highland Council's published delegated decisions, permission had been granted on 6^th April 2009, for the construction of a car park at Broadford Primary School and it was hoped that this would not impinge on the disabled access to the War Memorial. He will pursue the matter with TEC Services.

3.3. Junk at Riverbank, Broadford. The junk has not been cleared so Caroline Gould will approach Highland Council about the matter again, particularly, as the amount of junk appears to have increased lately.

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Membership Renewal Invoice for the Association of Scottish Community Councils. The membership has already been renewed.

4.2. Housing in the Countryside - Interim Supplementary Guidance. Responses are required to be submitted by Friday 22^nd May 2009.

4.3. Model schemes for the establishment of Community Councils, Code of Conduct, etc. The Community Council has already received this information.

4.4. Moffat and District Community Initiative "Walkers are Welcome Town Network". No action is required.

4.5. Iconic Viewpoints Visitor signage for viewpoints. Elgol Pier has been identified as an ideal candidate and the views of the Community Council have been sought on this matter. Tony Moore is to address the matter with Strathaird Community Association who have previously looked into this and will report back to the Community Council. The Community Council were in agreement that they should support this.

4.6. General Practice in Scotland - The Way Ahead. No action required by the Community Council.

4.7. Planning application lists. No action required at present.

4.8. Tony Moore reported that during the winter he had made a written application to the Transport Development Officer for a change to the Elgol-Broadford bus timetable, following representation from a number of residents of Elgol. In the winter timetable, if someone from Elgol left by bus at about 8am to go to Broadford then they could not get back to Elgol until about 2pm and thus they would have to spend some 4 hours in Broadford but, if they got the later bus, they would only have half an hour in Broadford before having to get the bus back. Tony Moore has received confirmation that the timetable is to be modified to give less time in Broadford in the morning and more time in the afternoon.

4.9. Email from Catriona Leslie of Portree Community Council. The public meeting, with a representative from the NHS present, to be held on 25^th May at 7.30pm, regarding hospital bed closures and out of hours service provision on north Skye is to be held in the Skye Gathering Hall in Portree.

4.10. Confirmation has been received that a community skip has been organised for Torrin for 14^th May 2009.

5. Financial Report.

Anita Jones (Treasurer) confirmed that Angus MacPhie is to audit the accounts and that the Ward Manager, Jan Laing, has confirmed that there are funds available for a Village Officer.

6. Broadford Surgery.

Tony Moore attended a meeting of the Broadford Medical Centre Development Group on Monday 27^th April 2009 at the Kyle Health Centre at which the criteria were identified for use at the non-financial options appraisal exercise held on Wednesday 29^th April 2009 at MacKinnon Country House Hotel in Kyleakin. At the meeting on the Monday, a number of subjects were discussed including heating costs at Broadford Medical Centre, issues attached to the building itself, problems associated with public transport and an agreement of the criteria to be used at the non-financial benefits scoring exercise. Additional information on demographics and public health was provided. The outcome from the non-financial options appraisal was discussed: it will go to the Community Health Partnership meeting in June and then to the Capital Planning Group where the financial implications will then be taken into account.

Tony Moore and Caroline Gould both attended the meeting in Kyleakin on 29^th April and took part in the options appraisal exercise. The meeting began with a presentation which included the current situation within the NHS and the difficulties that imposes on the service provided, the facts that the current Broadford Medical Centre is deemed unfit for purpose and does not comply with the Disability Discrimination Act with regard to access, and has inadequate clinical facilities, the Strategic context, objectives and constraints. The four options to be considered were then identified and described as were the criteria to be applied in the option appraisal exercise. Additional information was supplied regarding public transport timetables. Those in attendance were then divided into three mixed groups which then considered, and applied scores to, each of the criteria. The scores of each group were then totalled and the option chosen, as a result, was that a new Broadford Medical Practice be built on the Greenfield site adjacent to MacKinnon Memorial Hospital; realigning the practice boundaries and, through the negotiation with neighbouring practices, allowing the transfer of patients to them, from Broadford Practice. NHS Highland then issued a media release on 30^th April which stated that, once the financial constraints have been applied, if approval is granted and work can start this year, then NHS Highland hope that the building would be completed by 2011/12.

The NHS Skye and Lochalsh Locality Manager, Kate Earnshaw, stated that she is happy to attend a meeting of the Community Council, if requested. Following discussion, it was decided to invite Kate Earnshaw to the next Community Council meeting and that she should be informed that the Community Council would like to continue to be involved in every stage of the decision making process regarding both Broadford Medical Practice and the situation regarding the Skye Hospitals.

7. Skye Hospitals.

A public meeting is to be held in the Skye Gathering Hall, Portree, at 7.30pm on Monday 25^th May 2009. It was felt that Broadford & Strath Community Council should be represented at the meeting which is to discuss Skye Hospital bed closures and Out of Hours Services on North Skye and which should have an NHS Highland representative in attendance.

8. Village Grass Cutting.

Tony Moore had a meeting with the Ward Manager, Jan Laing, and she confirmed the existence of money to fund a Village Officer. Jan Laing also suggested that Tony Moore meet with Mark Crowe of Highland Council's TEC Services to discuss the various responsibilities for grass cutting within Broadford village. Tony Moore has written to Mark Crowe and hopes to meet with him soon. Denis Gould asked if Tony could discuss the subject of the flower tubs with Mark Crowe to see if they can be removed and replaced with something else. Jan Laing asked if the Community Council would be interested in organising a floral display of some sort for Homecoming year. Following Tony's meeting with Mark Crowe the Community Council will discuss these matters further.

9. A.O.C.B.

9.1. Broadford - a Fairtrade Village. In October 2006, the previous Community Council offered their full support in endorsing Broadford Fairtrade Group's efforts to have Broadford become the first Fairtrade village in Skye, which was successfully achieved. Currently Broadford is the only Fairtrade Village in Skye. Trish Rogers explained that, the Broadford Fairtrade Group are required to renew the Fairtrade Village status and, as part of that process they have been asked to ensure that they have the continuing support of Broadford & Strath Community Council. The Community Council agreed unanimously to give their full support.

9.2. Signs indicating that Broadford is a Fairtrade Village. Trish Rogers explained that many villages display signs informing people that they have achieved Fairtrade status and that Broadford Fairtrade Group would like to do this. She showed a design which included an ammonite symbol and asked if the Community Council would agree to such signs being erected and asked advice as to who to approach about these signs. The Community Council stated that they had no objection to these signs but advised the Broadford Fairtrade Group to make an application to Highland Council regarding the signs, having first had sign makers make up a design.

9.3. Trish Rogers extended an invitation to the Community Council from Martin and Linda Bird to use their Harbour View Restaurant in Broadford as a venue for future Community Council meetings as the restaurant is normally closed on Monday evenings when the Community Council hold their meetings.

9.4. Nicholas Kelly expressed concern regarding the lack of parking facilities at Broadford Village Hall and the fact that when there are events on at the hall cars are being parked on the pavement on the main road which was obstructing pedestrian access on the pavement. The Community Council agreed to write to the Council regarding the issue. Concern was also raised about the lack of flashing 20 mile per hour signs outside the Village Hall but it is thought that the police are dealing with this matter.

9.5. Denis Gould reminded the Community Council of the need for the concrete pipe which holds the village Christmas tree in place in the Community Garden to be replaced. It was agreed that the Community Council would do this themselves.

9.6. Denis Gould pointed out that there has been an incidence of fly tipping over the fence at the lay-by west of Broadford cemetery where travelling people had been camped recently. It was reported that a group of travelling people are now camped on the footpath opposite the Old Corry road end just outside Broadford. Following discussion, and a recognition of Highland Council's leaflet regarding  this, and the fact that the camp is in the middle of a published walking route, it was decided that the Community council should write to Highland Council regarding this matter.

9.7. Caroline Gould reported that as many hotels appeared to be using the bottle banks people are turning up to recycle bottles but are finding that the bottle banks are full. It was felt that Broadford requires better recycling facilities and that the paper banks, bottle banks, etc. need to be emptied more regularly.

9.8. Anita Jones stated that she and Marie Noble had attended the Eilean a' Cheo Ward Forum meeting held in Staffin on 27^th April 2009 which required a journey of some 81 miles. Tony Moore proposed that petrol costs be reimbursed for Community Council attendance at Ward Forum Meetings. Discussion with Jan Laing had suggested a rate of 40 pence a mile. Denis Gould seconded this. The Community Council agreed unanimously to this as long as car sharing takes place whenever possible. Marie Noble reported on what had been discussed at the Ward Forum meeting. The next Ward Forum meeting is to be held at 7.30 pm on 29^th June 2009, in Portree. Community Council Matters is a standing agenda item for Ward Forum meetings so it was felt that we should use this in order to highlight Community Council issues.

9.9. Marie Noble stated that Broadford Village Hall committee would be happy for the Community Council to hold their meetings on a regular basis at the Village Hall. The Community Council were unanimous that they would like to use the village hall regularly for their meetings, as they saw it being the heart of the community, but there were a number of problems preventing them from doing this. Problems highlighted were the lack of parking facilities, noise level issues, regular interruptions by other groups (i.e. to use the kitchen facilities or to gain access), if there were other events on in the hall at the same time as the Community Council meetings. The lack of suitable disabled access, compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act, was also highlighted. The Community Council will write to the Village Hall committee to explain this. Broadford Hotel has already been booked for Community Council meetings for June, July and August.

10. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 1^st June at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

Minute of meeting of 6th April 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

 

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 6^TH APRIL 2009

 

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

 

 

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chairperson)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Anita Jones (Treasurer)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

 

 

AGENDA

•1. Apologies.

None.

 

•2. Minute of Meeting of 2^nd March 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved. Proposed by Karl Ross. Seconded by Denis Gould.

 

•3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Chris MacKinnon is to speak to Eoin MacLeod regarding the Limepark garden project and will feedback to the Community Council.

 

3.2. Denis Gould reported that he had emailed Richard Cairns of TEC Services regarding the remedial work that needs to be carried out on the Broadford War Memorial, the steps and the disabled access to it. He will pursue the matter with TEC Services.

 

3.3. Karl Ross reported back from the Broadford Fairtrade Group's presentation evening where he had accepted a certificate awarded to the Community Council.

 

3.4. Marie Noble reported that An Acarsaid is to be upgraded and that this will begin in about June or July. It is not being extended or upgraded to take nursing care or anticipatory care. The upgrading is taking place because of the legislation changes with regard to room sizes, bathroom accessibility, widths of doors, etc. It is very important that the public know that An Acarsaid is not going to become something in place of the hospital or an extension to the hospital. The residents of An Acarsaid will be moving to Graham House in Dornie for nine months while the upgrading work is taking place. The Day Care group will not move to Graham House but it is hoped that arrangements can be made for it locally.

 

3.5. Denis Gould reported that the problem at Riverbank had seen some action. Highland Council had asked the Community Council to wait until mid April for the problem to be resolved. After this, if it has not been resolved, Caroline Gould will speak to Highland Council about it again.

 

•4. Correspondence.

4.1. The final copy of the constitution has been received. Anita Jones, the Treasurer, will keep it as she is required to send it away for grant purposes.

 

4.2. Highland Environmental Newsletter. Interesting green issues but nothing which requires immediate action from the Community Council.

 

4.3. Portree & District Rotary Club Maurice Nicholl award given in recognition of outstanding achievement to local communities. Nominations to be submitted by 30^th April.

 

4.4. Eilean a' Cheo Ward Poster providing information on the four local councillors. This is to be displayed in the Broadford Service Point.

 

4.5. Community Energy News. It was decided that there was no requirement for us to join this group at present.

 

4.6. Royal Navy "Today and Tomorrow" presentation to take place at Aros on 30^th April is no longer to take place.

 

4.7. SLCVO Newsletter. Funding and Information Fair to be held in Kyleakin on 24^th April. Booking is essential.

 

4.8. Forestry Commission notification of Forest District boundary changes reducing the districts from 14 to 10 in Scotland. Contact details have been included.

 

•5. Broadford Surgery/Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital.

 

It was decided that, in order to avoid any confusion, these two subjects would become two separate agenda items on future agendas.

 

5.1 Broadford Medical Practice. Following the last meeting, Caroline Gould emailed Jan Laing, Ward Manager, to express the Community Council's deep concerns regarding developments surrounding Broadford Medical Practice, and Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital, and to ask for an opportunity for the Community Council to meet with all four local councillors, as a matter of urgency, to discuss this matter as it would appear that the timescale for decision making regarding the medical practice seems very short indeed. Jan Laing's response stated that she had consulted with the local councillors regarding the matter and that the councillors would be meeting with representatives from the NHS in April and that they suggested that we advise them in writing of the Broadford Communities concerns and they will raise the issues at the meeting. She also stated that it would be useful if the Community Council sought a separate meeting with the NHS as this would add to the ground swell of concern.

Given that the local councillors seemed unaware that the Community Council had already met with the NHS and were respresented on the Broadford Medical Practice Development Group but were unable to discuss these issues in a public forum, it was felt that it was imperative that the Community Council met with all four councillors as soon as possible. Caroline Gould, having discussed the matter with the Chairperson, Tony Moore, responded to Jan Laing stating that as the Community Council felt that, as they had already had meetings with Kate Earnshaw, NHS Locality Manager, regarding the matter, and that the Community Council seemed to know more than the local councillors appeared to, regarding decisions about the developments surrounding Broadford Medical Practice, then it was imperative that the Community Council meet with the four local councillors as soon as possible so, to that end, Tony Moore would contact Hamish Fraser direct to arrange a meeting with him, the other three councillors, and Broadford & Strath Community Council. Denis Gould, Caroline Gould and Karl Ross had attended the Eilean a' Cheo Ward Forum meeting in Portree on 16^th March and, at it a question was raised by Catriona Leslie of the Portree Community Council regarding the suggested cut in the number of beds at Portree and Broadford Hospitals. Caroline Gould also raised concerns about the fact that the original nine options for the Broadford Medical Practice had now been honed down to three and the four local councillors appeared to be unaware of this, or of the short timescale in which it would appear that a final decision would be made. She also expressed concern that the Community Council had been told of the final three options but were not permitted to discuss them publicly and that it appeared that there was to be no form of public consultation other than announcing the final decision once it was made, which seemed unacceptable. The four councillors stated that they had just that morning decided to try to bring forward their meeting with the NHS from the current date of 20th April. After the Ward Forum meeting, Hamish Fraser met briefly with Caroline Gould, Denis Gould and Karl Ross and asked what the final three options were for Broadford Medical Practice. All three members of the Community Council stressed that it was vital that the Community Council meet with the four local councillors to discuss this, as a matter of urgency, and before the councillors met with the NHS on 20^th April. Disappointment was expressed that the Community Council had failed to engage with councillors on this important issue.

 

Tony Moore provided feedback from the Broadford Medical Practice Development Group meeting on 25^th March:

(a) A system has been put in place to lead to the formation of a Patient Public Representation group within the practice. Tony Moore is to represent the Community Council, and there is also a representative from Elgol. Some representation from the Broadford area and the general catchment area of the practice is still required.

(b) It was reported that current maintenance issues were being addressed.

(c) There was a report from a recent infection control visit.

(d) The options for development of the medical practice were discussed. There were a series of discussions around demographics, boundaries, neighbouring practices, public transport, patient activity, plans from other NHS premises and public health information. Tony Moore advised the Broadford Medical Practice Development Meeting of the Key Forecasts for Skye & Lochalsh within the West Highlands and Islands Local Plan 12/08. These forecasts which had implications for any subsequent decision making identified for the period 2008-2018:

• a projected population increase of 4% (+505)
• 40% growth in those aged 65 or older (+952) with a requirement for increased care provision
• anticipated 11% increase in households in Skye & Lochalsh

Public transport information was not provided at the meeting. A report on patient activity had been produced at a previous meeting. Plans of the Sleat practice were viewed. It was also reported that any new build would take account of potential increases of population in the future and will be designed in such a way to provide flexibility. The next event will be the non financial appraisal meeting to take place at MacKinnon Country House Hotel in Kyleakin on 29^th April. Invitations have been issued to practice staff, community staff, community councillors, local councillors, communication staff from NHS Highland. There was some debate as to whether to invite the press but in view of recent press reports it was decided that they couldn't guarantee a balanced report from some of the local press. NHS communication staff will then issue a press release. At the end of the day one option will be chosen which will be subjected to financial testing. There was some variance between the NHS figures projected and those in the Local Plan which Tony Moore highlighted. Kate Earnshaw had contacted the Skye & Lochalsh Housing Association about their immediate plans but Tony Moore highlighted that the Local Plan included numerous housing units which were not just social housing. The 2006 index of deprivation indicated that Portree and Broadford were in the top 20% of the most health deprived areas in Scotland. It was identified that was already taken into account in terms of the way the current practice is funded.

 

After some discussion, the Community Council unanimously expressed their concern that they had a dilemma in that they were unable to discuss this subject openly amongst the community which they represent. They had only just been included in the latter stages of a decision making process. Having been included only at the stage of the four final options, the Community Council expressed their concern that they had been given no opportunity to participate at a stage where other, possibly more suitable options had been involved and that there appeared to be no ability to involve the public in general at this stage. It was felt that the amount of public outcry regarding the options for the Kyle Health Centre had some bearing on this. It was decided that the Community Council should continue to participate by attending the meeting on 29^th April in the hope of being able to shift opinion where possible as this will be the only opportunity for input. Given the very short decision-making timescale regarding the options for the medical centre, it was unanimously decided that the Community Council should write to Charles Kennedy MP and John Farquhar Munro MSP to ask them to get involved and the Chairperson suggested that he would also try to arrange a meeting with Kate Earnshaw, NHS Locality Manager, to make clear the feelings of the Community Council on this matter. It was agreed that the Chairperson also notify Dr Helen Johnston, Senior GP, or John Wilson, Practice Manager, at the Broadford Medical Practice of the feelings of the Community Council.

 

•6. Village Grass Cutting.

The Chairperson had discussed the subject of the Community Council's grass cutting responsibility with the previous secretary of the Community Council, Lynne Adamson, who had kindly identified the areas for which the Community Council appears to have responsibility. Grass cutting would appear to be required to be undertaken from the boundary of the Village Hall along to The Serpentarium. The Community Council would also appear to be responsible for some 44 tubs of flowers within the village though it was noted that many of these tubs were in a badly decayed state and required removal. There was some confusion as to the Community Council's responsibilities and those of the Community Garden and the Broadford Environmental Group regarding various gardening issues within the village. It was decided that Tony Moore should speak to Stan Donaldson and Denis Gould should speak to Alan Duffield of the Broadford Environmental Group in order to try to clarify matters. Anita Jones will speak to Jan Laing, Ward Manager, to try to identify if it is possible to get funding for a Village Officer. Marie Noble agreed to find out who best to speak to in Highland Council about grass cutting and to ask if they could give the Community Council a price for cutting the Community Council's area of responsibility.

 

 

•7. A.O.C.B.

•7.1.         Banking matters. There was a general discussion regarding the Community Council's various bank accounts. A decision was made to take no action regarding changes to the bank accounts at present.

•7.2.         Broadford Fire Station.  The fire station key was returned to the fire service on 9^th February. It was decided to make a donation of £50 to the Fire Service for the Community Council's most recent use of the Fire Station and for the Fire Service's assistance in erecting the Village Christmas tree.

•7.3.         Caravans in Car Park at Broadford Forestry. A number of complaints have been received about a travelling people's camp involving a number of caravans at the entrance to the Broadford Forestry, next to the cemetery, and at a nearby lay-by. It was reported that one local person had been bitten by one of the traveller's dogs there and that this had been reported to the police. Highland Council has published a leaflet about such groups of travelling people and it would appear that this particular group is not following the rules laid down. It was decided that the Community Council will write to Highland Council notifying them of the numerous complaints they had received and asking for something to be done to move the group on elsewhere.

•7.4.         Lidl. The Community Council has been asked to write Lidl informing them that there is retail land in Broadford available for possible development. The Community Council agreed to send a letter.

•7.5.         Portacabins in Broadford Hotel Car Park. The Community Council has been asked to try to do something to get the portacabins removed from Broadford Hotel car park as they do not appear to be being used. They are an eyesore and there is some concern that cars which cannot park in the car park are tending to park on both sides of the Torrin Road which is dangerous. The Community Council will write to Uist Builders, who own the portacabins, and to Broadford Hotel asking for them to be removed.

•7.6.         Road leading to Broadford Service Point, road to Ashaig Cemetery, and road outside Fairwinds on the Torrin Road. The Community Council have been asked to approach Highland Council about improving the condition and safety of the road leading to Broadford Service Point after a member of the community reported that they had been nudged by a vehicle on that road. Given that the service point houses the Registration Service and parents registering a birth should be able to have safe access with a young baby, it was decided to write to Highland Council. It was also agreed to write to Highland Council regarding the poor state of the road leading to Ashaig Cemetery and the damaged section of road which becomes frequently flooded opposite the entrance to Fairwinds on the Torrin Road.

•7.7.         Next Ward Forum meeting on Monday 27^th April at 2.00pm to be held in Staffin. It was agreed that there should be some representation from Broadford & Strath Community Council. Some discussion surrounded Community Council attendance at Ward Forum meetings and the availability of travelling expenses. It was decided to explore this issue and, in the event of no financial support being forthcoming from the Council, to support attendance from Community Council funds at a rate to be decided.

 

•8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 4^th May 2009 at 7.30pm in Broadford Village Hall.

 

 

Minute of meeting of 2nd March 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 2^ND MARCH 2009

AT THE BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In attendance

Members of Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chairperson)

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chairperson)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Karl Ross

Willie Inglis

Also present:

Sue Styles (member of the public)

Trish Rogers (representing Broadford Fairtrade Group)

 

AGENDA

 

1. Apologies.

Anita Jones (Treasurer) and Marie Noble (Secretary).

 

2. Minute of Meeting of 2^nd February 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved subject to agreed corrections. Proposed by Willie Inglis. Seconded by Chris MacKinnon.

 

3. Matters Arising.

3.1. Willie Inglis reported that work was now being carried out on the A87 between Sligachan and Glenvarigill.

 

3.2. Denis Gould reported that he had spoken to Richard Cairns of TEC Services regarding the remedial work that needs to be carried out on the Broadford War Memorial. Denis is to email photographs and will ask if work can be carried out on the path leading to the memorial to enable better disabled access and to prevent cars from parking on the path.

 

3.3. Chris MacKinnon reported that he had been informed that Eoin MacLeod hoped to go to Caithness during the week in order to choose Caithness stone for the Limepark garden project. Copies of the plan of the proposed garden were produced at the meeting and it is hoped to display a copy on the community website. Trish Rogers commented on the wild orchids growing on the site and hoped that they would not be destroyed.

 

4. Correspondence.

4.1. Invitation to Broadford Fairtrade Group presentation at the Harbour Restaurant on 3^rd March at 7.30pm. Last year the Community Council backed the Broadford Fairtrade Group's application to attain Broadford's status as a Fairtrade village and the Community Council will receive a certificate at the presentation for their backing. Karl Ross was asked to represent the Community Council at the presentation.

 

4.2. Information leaflet from Scottish Gas, via the Scottish Government, regarding prioritisation and identification of those in fuel poverty that might qualify under the government's central heating programme. It was considered outwith the immediate scope of the Community Council.

 

4.3. Homefront newsletter from Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association. It was decided that there was nothing within this issue of the newsletter requiring action by the Community Council.

 

4.4. Invitation from Broadford Medical Centre to the Chairperson to attend a meeting with the Practice Manager, John Wilson, and the senior GP, Dr. Helen Johnston to discuss the establishment of a patient representative group to interface with the surgery. Information regarding Patient Participation Groups was included in the letter. The Medical Centre is hoping to put together a group which is representative of the area and Tony Moore discussed this at the meeting. He is to represent the Community Council at further meetings.

 

5. Broadford Surgery/Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital.

5.1 NHS Information awareness meeting for Community Councils. Caroline Gould and Karl Ross attended the meeting held on 4^th February 2009, by Kate Earnshaw, NHS Highland Locality Manager for Skye and Lochalsh. The purpose of the meeting was to give the Community Councils some understanding of the significant challenges facing NHS Highland in the hope that, in knowing this information, the Community Councils can help prevent some of the unnecessary rumours in circulation. In addition, Kate Earnshaw stated that she wanted the Community Councils to understand the pressure NHS Highland is under in order that when suggestions are made as to how NHS services have to change then there will be an understanding as to why that is happening.

The Scottish Government publications ‘Delivering for Health' and ‘Better Health, Better Care' are action plans which set out the Government's programme to deliver a healthier Scotland by helping people to sustain and improve their health, especially in disadvantaged communities, thus ensuring better, local, and faster access to health care with an emphasis on delivering health care that is fair to all and personal to each individual. Within NHS Highland, this means a shift in the balance of care from acute services (e.g. Raigmore Hospital) where it currently sits, out into the communities, in order that patients can be dealt with in a more preventative way or, as the NHS terms it, anticipatory care. In order to achieve this, consideration needs to be given to any impact on health inequality.

There is also the issue of the ageing NHS workforce, of whom many will retire in the next decade, management of work contracts within the European work directives, and the Agenda for Change, introduced in 2004, which was the most radical shake up of the NHS pay system since the NHS began in 1948. All of these things have impacted on NHS resources.

Within NHS Highland, the financial pressures for the current financial year (up until the end of March 2009) continue to be an increasingly challenging position, less than anticipated increase in budget, higher than anticipated pay award, significantly increased energy costs, agreed developments, and an underlying financial debt. For the NHS in Skye & Lochalsh, the share of the debt which has to be found and which cannot be carried forward into the next financial year (i.e. must be cleared by the end of March 2009 is £125K. However,  in Skye & Lochalsh, the NHS also forecasts overspend risks in out of hours services (of approximately £100K by the end of March 2009, because a change in the formula for division of the budgets to individual NHS boards means that rurality is no longer taken into account and, as a result, Skye and Lochalsh has lost £¼ M of the out of hours service budget), annual revenue costs as a consequence of the new Kyle of Lochalsh Healthcare Centre, which are circa £35K per year and which now have to be found within the annual budget, cash release savings (£181K for the current financial year) and the risk is that another budget or development will have to be held back. In addition to this, there has been the loss of Broadford Medical Centre's Dispensing profit, effective from August 2008, which means that, recurringly, this imposes a financial burden of £100K that has to be found from elsewhere. Other issues such as no longer being able to sterilise equipment but now having to buy in disposable equipment was never planned for in the budget and adds to the financial stress.

There is a real necessity for radical change, with just two of the catalysts for change being the change (in 2010) from 45 weeks from referral to treatment, to just 18 weeks, and the overall financial pressure.  NHS staff need to provide the quality of care that they themselves would expect to receive so now everything must be examined in detail to see where changes need to be made in order to use all the resources more efficiently, which will involve moving patients through the NHS system more quickly, and ensuring that everything is working together rather than in isolation. This must include prioritisation and limiting waste.

For Skye & Lochalsh NHS this means reassigning services on a large scale. Skye & Lochalsh has a resident population of almost 13,500 however, these numbers do not really justify having two hospitals. So, in Skye & Lochalsh, the NHS is looking at Portree and Broadford hospitals to ensure that they are not duplicating services. They have to make sure that hospital services in Portree are different from those provided in Broadford in order that they can justify to NHS Highland that both hospitals are working as one hospital but that they are based on two sites. In the past year, new services such as Renal Clinics, Sexual Health Clinics, and Alcohol Detox Clinics have all started and a Rehabilitation Centre has been set up in Glamaig Ward of Portree Hospital. Dr Mackinnon Memorial Hospital (MMH) in Broadford has always dealt with acute cases so non acute cases such as patients requiring nursing care, but not requiring 24 hour medical care, go to Portree Hospital.

Twelve years ago the plan was to close Gesto Hospital, add six beds in Portree Hospital, and add five beds in MMH, Broadford. The planned development at Broadford would then add another five beds. But things have changed and all those beds are no longer required. The beds currently available are not all used. The patients being seen in both Portree and Broadford hospitals are totally different. Patients stay in Broadford Hospital for an average of 2 ½ days and patients in Portree Hospital for an average of 7 ½ days. Patient flow is much faster so there is no requirement for the current number of beds. 43 beds in Skye & Lochalsh for a resident population of almost 13,500 people are too many and are not justified. The issue is that the financial climate has also changed.

Skye & Lochalsh hospital services now have to utilise their resources over the two sites. However, they also have to look at the longer term goals and what they should be for Skye & Lochalsh. One of the options is to have just one hospital, and if that were the case, it would have to be in Broadford on the greenfield site because, from a locality point of view, it is in the middle of Skye & Lochalsh. Also, there is land in Broadford available, unlike in Portree. Without the Lochalsh patients there aren't enough people in Skye alone to justify a hospital. So one of the long term goals is to look at the potential of one hospital for Skye & Lochalsh, however, that has huge implications and is not going to happen overnight so, in the interim, it is essential that both hospitals work well and without any service duplication.

Projecting forward to an increasing ageing population means that the NHS will have to concentrate more on care in the community which will mean more anticipatory care going out into the patient's home. This will also require partnership work with  Highland Council around things like possibly upgrading An Acarsaid and possibly having a couple of beds in An Acarsaid which are for nursing or anticipatory care and could provide a type of intermediate care stop off. It is things such as this that are being considered at the moment but no decisions have yet been made. Once things are clearer and, if there was a significant service redesign for Skye, this would require public consultation however, that  public consultation may be in the form of these are the ideas, this is what is going to happen and this is why it is going to happen.

Broadford Medical Practice is another issue as the building is not fit for purpose:  is not suitable for clinical practice, and is too small to provide any enhanced services. It is a high priority for the NHS who now has a working group looking at the different options.

In terms of redesigning NHS services within Skye & Lochalsh, consideration has to be given to hospital services, collaborative contracts in the salaried practices (Sleat, Broadford, Carbost & Glenelg), integrated community teams (a Renew Of Working in the Community (RONC), caseload profiling (to enable resources to be targeted where the need is), and integrated community and hospital services (at the moment focusing around the north end in particular and looking how to support Raasay where there are problems with continuation of the service and the NHS has to provide a 24/7 service so how to deliver that is being looked at).

 

5.2 Broadford Medical Practice Development Group meeting held on Wednesday 25^th February 2009. The Broadford Medical Practice Development Group has succeeded in honing down the possible options for development to a choice of four, one of which is to do nothing, but this is unacceptable, so realistically there are only three possible options being considered.

   Details of these three options are not yet in the public domain and the Community Council has been asked, by Kate Earnshaw, not to discuss any detail of these options in public, but the NHS has said that in considering these three options they are looking more widely than they have had to do before. Currently, they are at an information gathering stage and, once this has been completed, the option appraisal stage will begin. The next Broadford Medical Practice Development Group meeting is scheduled for 25^th March 2009.

 

   A discussion followed, during which Sue Styles stated that, as a member of NHS staff, she was unable to make any comment.

 

   After the meeting, the Community Council met in private in order to discuss in more detail the three options for the development of Broadford Medical Practice. As a result, it was decided that the Community Council should arrange a meeting with all four Eilean a' Cheo local councillors, as a matter of urgency, as it would appear that the councillors were unaware of some of the ongoing discussions and information of which the Community Council are now aware and of the apparent short timescale for decision making. Concerns were also raised regarding the apparent lack of public consultation regarding this matter. Caroline Gould to contact the Ward Manager, Jan Laing, to request arrangement of this meeting. Following this it may be necessary to involve John Farquhar Munro MSP and Charles Kennedy MP.

 

6. Bayview Crescent.

   Caroline and Denis Gould declared an interest, given that they live on Bayview Crescent and that they started the Bayview Crescent Residents Association (BCRA), but stressed that they had been asked by the members of the BCRA to represent them at this meeting to put across the issues regarding Bayview Crescent and to ask for the support of the Community Council in getting these issues addressed and resolved as soon as possible.

   Bayview Crescent Residents Association was set up four years ago in order to attempt to get something done about the poor state of the road which Highland Council has stated they have been aware has been in an unsafe and dangerous condition for in excess of twenty years.

   Following a report regarding the background of Bayview Crescent, Denis Gould explained that when each plot of land was sold for a house to be built on it, part of the proceeds of each sale was destined for the purpose of making the road up to an adoptable standard.  There are ten houses on Bayview Crescent, the last being built in the 1990s, but two plots on the road remain undeveloped. Highland Council's Planning Department have refused further planning permission because of the dangerous state of the road and have informed the BCRA that any development on the road which is deemed may increase the traffic on the road by just one vehicle will be refused planning permission. Yet in recent years there have been three phases of housing development adjacent to Bayview Crescent on Campbell's Farm land which has led to a multifold increase in vehicular and pedestrian traffic through Bayview Crescent and a further deterioration of the road surface, including by construction traffic, despite reassurances that construction traffic would not use Bayview Crescent. (Problems regarding the roundabout on Glen Road were also raised.) The residents of Bayview Crescent do not own the solum or the road. It is owned by Charles Campbell. Highland Council are keen to close the exit from Bayview Crescent onto the Torrin Road as they consider it to be dangerous. The only way of achieving this would be to have a stopping up order put in place and thereby make Bayview Crescent a cul de sac with access/egress only at the roundabout on Glen Road. However, given that Bayview Crescent Residents' only legal right of servitude for vehicular and pedestrian access is via the Torrin Road, and only up to the further most boundary of their property from the Torrin Road, this would require an adopted road to be provided from the properties on Bayview Crescent to the roundabout on Glen Road. To date, there have been two round table meetings of the interested parties. At the first of these meetings, which was chaired by Hamish Fraser, and attended by Charles Campbell, it was the feeling of all parties present that it was Charles Campbell's responsibility to fund the making up of the road to an adoptable standard. It was further suggested that if outline planning permission was granted on the remaining plots on the road, the money achieved from the sale of these plots could be put towards the making up of the road. Charles Campbell did not attend the second round table meeting in January 2008. At that meeting, which was chaired by James Stephenson of the Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association (L&SHA), Gordon Macdonald of TEC Services produced a plan for Bayview Crescent to be made up to an adoptable standard. Highland Council intended to contribute towards part of the cost. However, following that meeting, James Stephenson circulated notes from the meeting which included a section which had not been on the agenda, nor was it discussed at the meeting, which suggested, inaccurately, that it had been agreed that the owner of every property on Bayview Crescent should contribute equally to the cost of the road. At that stage, the L&SHA claimed to own a plot on Bayview Crescent but James Stephenson had not included them as possible contributors to the cost of the road. It has more recently been discovered that the Housing Association mistakenly believed that they owned a plot on Bayview Crescent. Following the first round table meeting it was reported in the Community Council minutes that the problem had been resolved but this is clearly not the case.

   The BCRA has now raised the subject via a question at the Ward Forum meeting on 2^nd February 2009. Additionally, the BCRA has met with Charles Kennedy MP in an attempt to ensure that further round table meetings take place via an independent facilitator, chairperson and minute taker. The BCRA requested that the Community Council give their backing to the BCRA in its attempt to get the issues regarding Bayview Crescent properly addressed and resolved and also that a representative of the Community Council attend the round table meetings.

   Following discussion, the Community Council were in agreement that this problem should have been dealt with and resolved long ago and that they would welcome a full round table discussion with a representative of the Community Council in attendance.

 

7. A.O.C.B.

7.1.   Surgeries. Caroline Gould suggested that the Community Council might like to consider holding surgeries for members of the public to bring community issues to the attention of the Community Council, given that some people may have difficulty attending the meetings. It was decided to give some consideration to this after a review over the next few months.

7.2.   Riverbank. Caroline Gould was advised by TEC Services that they did not have responsibility for the problem as the road has not been adopted so I should contact the Housing Department. The Housing Department said that they were dealing with the problem and we agreed that if the problem had not been resolved by mid April then the Community Council should get back to them about it. It was agreed that the Community Council send a plan of another area of land off Riverbank which seemed to be used as a dump, to the Housing Department, in order to try to ascertain who owned that plot of land with the intention of getting that area cleaned up.

 

8. Date, time and venue of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 6^th April 2009 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel.

 

 

Minute of meeting of 2nd February 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

 

MINUTE OF ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON

MONDAY 2nd FEBRUARY 2009 AT 7.30pm IN BREAKISH HALL.

 

 

In Attendance

Members of the Community Council:

Tony Moore (Chair)

Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chair)

Marie Noble (Secretary)

Caroline Gould (Minute Secretary)

Denis Gould

Willie Inglis

Karl Ross

 

Also present for discussion of proposed Limepark garden:

Fiona Mandeville

Eoin MacLeod

 

AGENDA

 

1. Apologies.

Anita Jones (Treasurer).

 

2. Minute of the meeting of 5^th January 2009.

The minute of the previous meeting was approved subject to agreed corrections/additions. Proposed by Willie Inglis. Seconded by Karl Ross. Tony Moore proposed that minutes from January 2009 onwards be displayed on the Broadford & Strath Community Council section of the http://www.broadfordandstrath.org/ website. This was agreed unanimously. It was proposed and agreed that Caroline Gould take on the role of Minute Secretary.

 

3. Matters Arising.

3.1 Christmas Lights. The Chair proposed that we have a comprehensive discussion regarding additional Christmas lighting for next Christmas, and the possibility of funding to achieve this, after the summer and this was agreed by everyone. A letter of thanks to be sent to Robbie Milne in the lighting department at Fort William for his department's help in connecting and disconnecting the village Christmas tree lights and in ordering the new lights for us.

 

4. Correspondence.

The following items of correspondence were received:

 

4.1 Draft Open Space in New Residential Development - Supplementary Guidance from Malcolm Macleod, Development Plans Manager. Tony Moore suggested the information (which is also available online) be circulated and read by each member before the next meeting and that we then discuss the matter at the next Community Council meeting and complete the questionnaire.

 

4.2 Introductory letter from Lynne Kennedy of West Highland Free Press. She would like copies of Community Council minutes. We will direct her to the Community Council's section of http://www.broadfordandstrath.org/ website where minutes and agendas will be displayed.

 

4.3 Skye and Lochalsh Local Access Forum. The next meeting of the Access Forum is to be held in the Council Chamber at Tigh na Sgire, Portree, on Tuesday 3^rd February 2009 at 10.00 am.

 

4.4 Building a Highland Compact Skye Event - 11^th February 2009 in Kyleakin Community Hall.

 

5. Broadford Surgery/Dr Mackinnon Memorial Hospital.

Following several enquiries from members of the community in the last few weeks as to what is happening with regard to the proposed development of the hospital and the surgery, Tony Moore wrote to Kate Earnshaw, NHS Highland Locality Manager for Skye and Lochalsh, requesting any useful non-sensitive information which would allow the Community Council to respond to such enquiries. The letter also welcomed any opportunity for the Community Council to participate in any consultative process as this hugely important project progresses. Kate Earnshaw's response confirmed the integrated development between Broadford Surgery and the Dr Mackinnon Memorial Hospital as ongoing projects. Following an option appraisal and many months of hard work the integrated proposal had been rejected by the Community Health Partnership (CHP) Management Team owing to the overall costs (£17M). The revenue costs for this project were in excess of £1M which was required to be found by the Locality and, as this was not an option unless they removed services from elsewhere, they are therefore now reassessing their options. The CHP acknowledged the urgency associated with the medical practice so they are now progressing this project separately. The Locality are also looking at Skye and Lochalsh Hospital Services in total to see how best the service can be utilised to its full potential across the whole Locality. A caveat to this, however, is that NHS Highland are having to make significant savings over the next few years and therefore changes to the way in which services are delivered will need to happen, with patient safety being paramount. They are looking at improvement of services with regard to delivery and efficiency to ensure that the population receives a quality service that is fit for the future. Kate Earnshaw also invited a representative from the Community Council to be part of the Broadford Medical Practice Development Group, in the knowledge that the representative must respect the confidentiality and sensitivity of the information addressed and that the representative is prepared to look at the whole picture in relation to potential change. Once viable options are available, a wider consultation process will take place and input from within the community will be welcomed. Two representatives of the Community Council were also invited to an information awareness session regarding the NHS Highland position at the Locality Office at 6.00pm on Wednesday 4^th February 2009. It was agreed that Caroline Gould and Karl Ross should represent the Community Council at the Information Awareness session and that Caroline Gould be the Community Council representative on the Broadford Medical Practice Development Group. It was also agreed that as these were very important issues then as much feedback as possible, given the bounds of sensitivity and confidentiality, be reported back to the Community Council. Marie Noble also expressed a desire to be involved as long as there was no conflict of interest. She will speak to Kate Earnshaw. The Chair proposed that this subject become a permanent agenda item, given its importance. This was agreed by all members present.

 

6. A.O.C.B.

6.1 Proposed Limepark Garden. Eoin MacLeod showed the Community the Council the design plan for the Limepark Garden, which includes different Scottish rock types to be used as well as plants indigenous to Scotland. The attractive design should allow for disabled access and will consist of upright stones of varying heights and seats and tables made of stone which will be banded with metal and anchored to the ground. The original cost estimated was £5,600 but, given the necessary delays which had taken place, the Community Council requested a more up-to-date estimate. It was also requested that, given the provision of tables and chairs within the proposed design, that the designer give consideration to the inclusion of a litter bin within the overall design, which would be in keeping with the aesthetics of his design. The Community Council thanked Ian MacLeod for bringing the design plans to the meeting and hoped that the project would soon be able to come to fruition.

 

6.2 State of various roads. Willie Inglis requested that the Community Council write to Highland Council regarding the very poor state of the road leading to Ashaig Cemetery and asking that something be done about it as soon as possible. He also requested that the problem of the stretch of road outside Fairwinds on the Elgol/Torrin Road which Highland Council widened less than a year ago and which is prone to flooding be addressed and remedied. Tony Moore asked that it also be drawn to Highland Council's attention that the stretch of road 50 metres either side of the Blaven Car Park has collapsed in places and seems substandard and the stretch of road 25 metres each side of the fish farm entrance at Faolain be attended to. The Community Council will send a letter to Highland Council's TEC Services highlighting these problems and asking for them to be addressed and resolved. Willie Inglis suggested that the Community Council also write to Scotland Transerv regarding the very poor state of the Sligachan-Glenvarigill stretch of the A87 and Marie Noble suggested that the poor state of the Kyleakin-Broadford stretch of the A87 also be included in the letter. This was agreed by all members present.

 

6.3 Highland Council's charges for uplift of bulky items. Willie Inglis expressed concern that this charge, to be levied from April 2009, may lead to an increase in fly tipping. It was pointed out that in some areas of the country a large community skip is provided on a regular basis and in other areas disabled people and elderly people qualify for a lower charge for the uplift of bulky items. It was agreed that the Community Council should write to Highland Council requesting whether either of these will be a possibility.

 

6.4 Possible donation towards work on Pier Road path. Karl Ross had spoken to John Phillips about this work which is due to begin on 9^th February 2009 and involves volunteers from the Prince's Trust. Karl requested that the Community Council consider providing a donation towards the costs involved. He suggested £150. This was agreed by all members present.

 

6.5 Broadford War Memorial. A volunteer approached the Community Council recently asking to clear the weeds and bushes overgrowing the steps leading to the War Memorial. Permission for this work to be carried out was granted by TEC Services and the steps are now looking much improved. The volunteer also highlighted maintenance work which will need to be done to the base of the memorial. Denis Gould is to draw this to the attention of TEC Services and request that this work be undertaken by them. The Community Council is also to send a letter of thanks to the volunteer, Piet van Barneveld, for all his hard work.

 

6.6 Eilean a' Cheo Ward Forum Meetings. It would appear imperative that representatives from the Community Council attend these meetings regularly. The next Ward Forum meeting is to be held on  Monday 16^th March at 2.00pm in Tigh na Sgire, Portree.

 

7. Date and time of next meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 2^nd March 2009 at 7.30pm in the Broadford Hotel. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.

Minute of meeting of 5th January 2009

 

BROADFORD & STRATH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MINUTE OF ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 5TH JANUARY 2009

AT BROADFORD HOTEL

 

In Attendance

Members of the Community Council:
Tony Moore (Chair)
Chris MacKinnon (Vice Chair)
Anita Jones (Treasurer)
Caroline Gould
Denis Gould
Willie Inglis
Karl Ross
Marie Noble (Secretary)

Also present:
Una MacLeod - Sleat
Nicholas Kelly  - Broadford Youth Club

AGENDA

1. Apologies - none

2. Minute of the meetings held in December

The minute of the previous meeting was approved subject to corrections/additions subject to clarification of source and purpose. Proposed - Anita Jones and Seconded by Willie Inglis.

3. Matters Arising.

3.1 The chair advised that in future all corrections/modifications to the official minute will be taken and approved at the Agenda Item - Minute of the previous meeting.

3.2 October and November minute also amended and it was noted the numbering was inconsistent.

4. Correspondence.

The following items of correspondence were received:

4.1 Tony Moore said he had received a letter from Highland Council advising Broadford & Strath Community Council that those infrastructure repairs and improvements previously notified would be done as soon as funds are available.

4.2 Circle of Care - Church of Scotland sent letter of thanks for the £250 donation from the Community Council for their annual Christmas lunch.

4.3  WHFP - Letter to confirm Lynne Kennedy (journalist) is keen to know about events and news from the Broadford & Strath Community Council.

4.4 Data Protection - Anita said we are now registered for this and she will keep a copy.

4.5 Skye and Lochalsh Council for Voluntary Organisations (SLCVO) - Broadford & Strath Community Council are now members.

4.6  Highland Libraries - Caroline said she had contacted them and feels the Community  Council should proceed with the application - it includes all community groups from Highland area and would be a good source for information and contacts. Also Broadford and Strath site to be linked with this.

5. A.O.C.B.

5.1 Letter of thanks to go to the John Muir Trust and local Whist drive.

5.2 Nicholas Kelly made request  to the Community Council for a donation for a mugga pitch or goal posts for the Broadford Youth Club. Advised to put in writing. The Community Council also commended Nicolas on his recent achievement of receiving Highland Youth Scotland Award.

5.3 Christmas Lights - Anita to leave paperwork with Marie as she will not be at the next two meetings.

5.4 Removal of Christmas tree - Caroline emailed Robbie Milne to confirm disconnection as soon as possible after the New Year. The lights and transformer to then be stored safely. Everyone agreed the lights had been a great success this year with many positive comments. Discussion took place around whether there should be more next Christmas, maybe in the community garden.

5.5 Website Training - Kevin MacKenzie to meet with Caroline, Denis and Marie to do this.

5.6 Fire Station - the Community Council agreed to hand keys back to the fire station and will continue using local halls/hotels for meetings to enable people in the community to access them.

5.7 Chris raised the problem with Kilmarie cemetary and the damage following the recent high winds. Tony will take a look at this. Also the pot holes at Ashaig cemetery.

6. Date and time of next Meeting

Monday 2nd February 2009 @ Breakish Hall.  7.30pm.

All members of the public are welcome to attend.