Ibrox and Cessnock Community Council
Minutes of meeting on Wednesday April 20th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Bill Copleton, Shona Craven, Stephen Dornan, John Foster, James Gardner (SPT), Anne Henderson, Archie Henderson, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, John McGoldrick (SPT), John McKinstry, Margaret Prunty, Lesley Rodgers (SPT), Grace Smith, James Soper (Walmer Crescent Association), Andrea Thompson (SPT), Avril Williamson (Walmer Crescent Association) Apologies: Chris Fyfe, John Kane, Fariha Thomas Chairman John Foster opened the meeting and asked deputy chairman Mark Hughes to provide updates on matters including the Summer Sessions (August 26-27 – tickets are on sale but the licence has not yet been granted) the possibility of organising a meeting about Orchard & Shipman, the letting agents to asylum seekers, and the potential creation of an event-day parking zone (our area is now second on the priority list for this). The minutes of our last meeting were approved. Parking problems on match days were raised by some residents, as well as anti-social behaviour on our streets and a particularly concerning incident involving an elderly women being abused on the Subway. Suggested responses for SPT to consider included CCTV in Subway carriages, stewards in carriages and posters in and around the Subway advising people to report criminal and anti-social behaviour by passengers. It was pointed out that in future the Subway trains may be driverless, further reducing opportunities for reporting problems. It was suggested that the return of police officers on bikes would improve the policing of match days. Police Scotland have re-launched their online survey in response to feedback from the public. This will now be open all year round, and residents were encouraged to participate. There was discussion about the planned Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Bellahouston Park, with some residents expressing concern about noise levels from summer concerts and the associated anti-social behaviour that could cause upset to those residing in or visiting the hospice. Councillor Stephen Dornan advised that he would be raising objections accordingly. A consultation on Summer Sessions will take place on May 3, with John McKinstry and Grace Smith due to attend from the community council. Only a city councillor or the local community council (in this case Craigton) can object at this stage, as the application is being submitted only six weeks ahead of the event. Cllr Dornan advised that promoters do not submit their applications earlier because this allows other individuals to object. John McGoldrick of SPT spoke in some detail about the Subway refurbishment and took questions from residents. The contract for the works is still out to tender but due to be awarded soon. Penalties for delayed work have been written into contracts. Concern was raised by the Walmer Crescent Association members that vibrations from the work could disturb residents and SPT confirmed that noisy work was to be scheduled for daytime hours. There was some confusion over the hours, as 7am-6pm are hours in council rules for contractors whereas 8am-8pm is currently specified in SPT contracts. James Soper pointed out that any damage caused will need to be repaired by SPT as the Walmer Crescent residential building is A-listed. John Foster raised the need for better maps and signs at Subway stations, and the potential for community information space to be incorporated into the refurbishment works. Shona Craven pointed out that there had been no direct communication with passengers (including Smart Card holders) to advise them that the Subway was closing. Andrea Thompson advised that passengers were due to be informed the following week. Deputy chairman Mark Hughes opened the second half of the meeting and invited residents to raise issues of concern. Anne and Archie Henderson raised some concerns about commercial developments in the area. Anne had been informed that the former Bank of Scotland branch was to be turned into a bookmakers' and Cllr Dornan said he would object to such a change of use on the basis that it goes against the regeneration plan for the area. Other bookmakers can also made an objection on commercial grounds. Archie raised concern that a ground-floor flat opposite the former Swallow Hotel, formerly a “sauna”, was being converted into a “gentlemen's club”. The practice of passengers using the area around Cessnock Subway as a free park-and-ride was raised. James Soper of the Walmer Crescent Association said his group was investigating this and would keep us informed on any developments. It was suggested the Albion car park beside Ibrox Stadium could be use for weekday park-and-ride since it is currently only used for parking on match days. John McKinstry provided an update on progress with the community council bank account, and Iain Henderson gave his report from the monthly Community Council Discussion Forum at the City Chambers in Glasgow. Mark spoke about the recent Govan Area Partnership (GAP) meeting he attended, and the move from four meetings per year to six. Land and Environmental Services are due to leaflet residents about food recycling after the GAP chased this up. The new Govan-to- Partick foot bridge is to be built by summer 2019. The boundary for Thriving Places is to be changed to include Ibrox. Cessnock and Govan East. SPT will attend the next GAP meeting after Mark raised concern about the shutdown. Mark spoke about Govan Decides, a community budget exercise taking place as part of a pilot project. 20 projects from across the Govan Ward will compete for funding of £10,000, with all local residents eligible to vote. £5,000 has been contributed by the GAP with another £5,000 from the Scottish Government. Mark strongly encouraged all residents to attend the event on Monday April 25 at the Pearce Institute. Mark also advised of his attendance at a Digi CC event focusing on social media and communications by community councils (and the creation of a Dropbox-style Knowledge Hub), and progress with the new Clyde Community Hall, which is due to open in June. John Foster confirmed there were no updates to report on the Skene Road or Ibroxholm 2 developments, as these are still being examined by planning staff at the council and have not yet been assigned to committees. The meeting closed at 8.50pm. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 18 at Kinning Perk Cafe.
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Ibrox and Cessnock Community Council Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday March 16th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Margaret Barclay, Paul Chambers, John Cork, Shona Craven, Stephen Dornan, Jessica Galloway, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, John Kane, John McKinstry, Margaret Prunty, Yvonne Reilly, PC Elaine Sherwood, Bailie Fariha Thomas, PC Lee Wason
Apologies: James Adams, John Foster, Ray Prunty, Grace Smith Vice-chairman Mark Hughes opened the meeting and took on chairing duties, as chairman John Foster was on holiday. He introduced Elaine Sherwood and Lee Wason of Police Scotland, who provided an update on recent crime in the area. They reported there had been 20 reported crimes in February, nine of which had been detected. This is down 50% on the same month last year. The crimes included car and home break-ins (the main concern for the local police), misuse of drugs and road traffic offences. Many of the traffic offences recorded in the area are committed on the M74 motorway as opposed to local streets. The housebreakings and car thefts do not appear to follow any pattern and are therefore believed to be opportunistic rather than planned/organised. There is a rise in such offences on match days. As of the date of our meeting nine offences had be recorded for March, with three detected, also reflecting a downward trend. PC Wason assured residents that the recent alleged murder in Elizabeth Street was an isolated domestic incident and that a suspect had been arrested at the scene and remanded in custody. Therefore there was no risk to the general public. Shona Craven sought clarification about the statistics given the low numbers of reported offences and it was clarified that these statistics referred to crimes “reported and established” - therefore would not cover lower-level antisocial offences such as those regularly raised at our meetings (ie public drinking/urination in gardens on match days). The police advised that nine times out of 10 these result in a fixed-penalty notice. Statistics on the number of such offences reported and the number of fines issued was requested, and the officers advised that they would request these. Mark addressed correspondence received in relation to the DigiCC workshops, the Summer Sessions concert series in Bellahouston Park, Thriving Places and the Subway modernisation. Craigton is the only community council that can formally object to the concerts due to their location, however we can liaise with them to raise concerns. There was discussion around looking at feedback from last year's events in a bid to minimise negative impact on our area. A representative from SPT is due to attend our next meeting to talk about the Subway modernisation. Fariha Thomas gave an update on the restoration of the Dr Wilson Memorial Fountain. The damage was significant, so it is important for it to be made safe. The community council will be kept up-to-date on progress and liaise with Ibrox Primary, who are planning related project work. There was also a discussion about the city budget and the use of reserves to mitigate against cuts to services. Treasurer John McKinstry provided an update on the process of transferring the community council's bank account, Iain Henderson gave his report from the most recent community council discussion forum, and Mark advised that Craigton and Drumoyne community councils were up and running, and Govan East was in the process of being re-established. Mark is now the community council rep for the South Sector Partnership, with Mary from Craigton as his deputy. Yvonne Reilly from Glasgow City Council provided an update on Thriving Places, which will link up groups to work together and involve a Community Co-ordinator being in post for three years. Yvonne assured us she would provide regular updates. She also outlined the details of a community budgeting pilot project, which has £10,000 to disburse. There was discussion about whether the community council was in a position to apply for a grant for any of the projects listed as potential strategic priorities for 2016, however the timescales were very tight. There was to be a meeting on April 5th, the deadline for applications was April 8th and the community voting was to take place on April 18th, a Tuesday afternoon when many residents would be unavailable. Members discussed inviting our two local MPs to discuss the UK Government's contract with housing agents Orchard & Shipman, who are responsible for providing housing for asylum seekers. It was suggested a one-off meeting could be arranged in conjunction with the other community councils, touching on this and other matters reserved to Westminster. Mark provided an update on the new Clyde Community Hall (formerly Whitefield Road Hall. The application for SCIO (Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation) status has been successful and the hall is on schedule for a summer opening. There possibility of holding a one-off community council meeting to trial the new space was mentioned. Updates were provided on the Skene Road and Ibroxholm Oval planning applications. It is hoped both of these will go to the committee stage – five objections to the former were lodged and while only one objection to the latter appeared to have been submitted, resident Margaret Prunty advised that she had gathered and submitted seven letters from Whitefield Road residents. The application for a digital poster board was refused because of the impact it would have had on residents directly overlooking it. Cultural Services Officer Paul Chambers gave an update about the Artery project, referencing the “cultural village” model that has been established around the Glad Cafe in Shawlands. An open forum is planned for the end of April/beginning of May to work towards a more defined model. The aim is to bring art and cultural experiences to the corridor stretching from the “Angel to Elephant”, which may involve temporary installations. The meeting closed at 8.50pm. The next meeting will take place at 7pm on Wednesday April 20th at Kinning Perk Cafe.
Ibrox and Cessnock Community Council Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday February 17th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Paul Chambers, Shona Craven, Stephen Dornan, John Foster, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, John McKinstry, Grace Smith, Bailie Fariha Thomas
Apologies: James Adams, Bill Copleton, Chris Fyfe, John Kane Chairman John Foster opened the meeting and minutes from December and January were approved subject to minor amendments. Councillors Stephen Dornan and Fariha Thomas gave an update regarding cleansing issues raised at the January meeting, and advised that both had raised concerns with Land and Environmental Services (LES) about uncollected rubbish as well as leaves and mulch in the streets. It was clarified that bin collection services were not sub-contracted but additional vehicles were hired that should have all displayed the council logo though it was noted some did not. Shona Craven advised that she had emailed Paul McGrath, deputy south cleansing manager, about festive collection issues and also the impending introduction of food recycling bins, but received no reply. The only reply came from the councillors who had attended a meeting with LES. The community council expressed grave concerns about LES’s ability to introduce new bins when it is clearly failing to provide an adequate collection service of existing bins. It was acknowledged that paper/plastic recycling bins were lower priority, but these were left unemptied for months and regular bins were also left for many weeks over Christmas. John Foster suggested fine should be imposed on LES for failures. There is a clear lack of accountability here. Stephen Dornan also mentioned a forthcoming change to legislation that will allow refuse collectors to collect anything left in the street without the risk of legal action. It is hoped this will address some of the huge inefficiency problems with bulk collections that have been addressed many times at our meetings. Iain Henderson gave his report on the monthly Community Council Discussion Forum on February 13. The forum was addressed by David Wood from Planning Aid Scotland, who spoke about how the Community Empowerment Act (Scotland) 2015 will make it easier for communities to take ownership of public assets. John Foster advised that the consultation on the Skene Road development had been extended due to the major website problems, and was awaiting an update confirming that five responses had been received. A comment from the Scottish Architectural Heritage Association has highlighted the fact that the proposed flats do not fit with the style of other housing in the area. The deadline for responses to the “Ibroxholm 2” development plans is March 15th. It was noted that it is hard to get a sense of developments from the documents available on the council website, and that it would be useful if larger-format papers were available locally, ie in the library. John Foster has made contact with Ibrox Primary School and the community council will be highlighted at a forthcoming PTA meeting. The school has been involved in litter-picking in the past so this may be an area we can engage with. Kinning Park Community Council have contacted us regarding Orchard and Shipman, the agents responsible for the housing of asylum seekers whose offices are on Brand Place. The firm is to provide a waiting room to avoid the current situation where people are queuing in the street. Orchard and Shipman’s contract for this work ends in 2017, and it was suggested we invite local MP Alison Thewliss to a future meeting to discuss concerns raised by the Scottish Refugee Council about the quality of accommodation being provided. John Foster asked Fariha Thomas if it was likely asylum seekers would be accommodated in one of the proposed new developments and she said she thought this highly unlikely given the level of demand for brand new rented housing. Mark Hughes gave an in-depth report about a recent meeting with the management committee taking forward the refurbishment of Whitefield Road Hall, now renamed Clyde Community Hall. He advised that a SCIO (Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation) application had been submitted naming three trustees. The plan is for the hall to comprise a main hall plus two training rooms and a café. Concern was expressed that no funding appeared to be in place to support any staff for the new hall. Strategic priorities were discussed and Grace Smith highlighted the importance of having eye-catching leaflets and posters to raise awareness of the community council in our local area. There are plans for the Edmiston Drive billboard to be turned into an LED high-definition screen, which will require planning permission. John Foster raised the possibility of space on this screen being available for community use, and said his correspondence on this with advertising firm JCDecaux had been positive. Paul Chambers, Cultural and Learning Skills Officer with Glasgow Life, outlined his role and long-term aims to improve our area, including the Artery project. The meeting closed at 9pm. The next meeting will take place at 7pm on Wednesday March 16th at Kinning Perk Cafe.
Ibrox and Cessnock Community Council
Minutes of meeting on Wednesday January 20th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Shona Craven, Stephen Dornan, John Foster, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, John McKinstry, Robyn McPherson, Margaret Prunty, Grace Smith, Justin Stephens, Bailie Fariha Thomas Apologies: John Kane, Archie and Anne Henderson Chairman John Foster opened the meeting and December's minutes were approved. John then addressed correspondence received in relation to the closure of the local Bank of Scotland branch. Bailie Thomas advised that she had contacted the bank after residents raised concerns and was advised that the closure was a commercial decision backed up by statistics showing poor usage. The Dr James Wilson Memorial Drinking Fountain is currently in storage with restoration work being carried out, and all being well it will be returned to its usual location in the spring. Contrary to a report in the Evening Times, it was not stolen! Ibrox Library are keen to explore the history of the statue with pupils, something the community council could get involved with. Due to the council's server crashing around Christmas, opportunities to comment on the Skene Road development plans have been limited. John Foster will seek confirmation regarding an extension to the consultation period. Residents were encouraged to submit their views, referring to the online guidance about material considerations. Five are required to take the application to the committee stage. The meeting heard that Glasgow City Council is holding a consultation meeting on its strategic priority agenda for 2016 on February 2nd from 7pm to 9pm in the Palace of Arts. This is open to the public and the city's budget will be discussed. The council is seeking views on which areas should be prioritised and also which areas could have their budgets reduced. John McKinstry advised that he would try to attend. Also on February 2nd is a Health and Wellbeing meeting at Hampden. Police Scotland is also seeking public views about its spending with a Strategic Police Priorities Review. The deadline for online contributions is February 12. Cleansing problems in the area were raised by the residents, and it was noted there had been very significant disruption to collections before, during and after the Christmas period. Stephen Dornan advised that domestic collections were “sub-contracted” over this period, and concern was expressed about whether this represented good value for money given the lack of service. Some residents noted that they were at home for most of the holidays so were certain attempts at collecting from back courts had not been made. Shona Craven advised that she would contact Paul McGrath to request more information about the subcontracting and ascertain where accountability for the failures lies. There was also discussion about the recycling bins being removed from Paisley Road West near the Kensington Bar and the the west end of Walmer Crescent. Bailie Thomas advised that she had received many complaints about misuse of these bins and that they were regularly so contaminated that their contents could not be recycled. However, she reported that the contamination problem had now spread to the bins at Ibrox Library. Residents highlighted the lack of enforcement action against those who abuse the bins. The community council received an update from Lesley McGregor of Glasgow Housing Association on the future of Whitefield Road Hall. Repair work by City Building is due to commence soon and is estimated to take 10 weeks, allowing for the hall to re-open in April. The community council expressed surprise that plans were at such an advanced stage. We heard there had been a “development day” with roles and responsibilities agreed, and an application submitted for SCIO (Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation).The next meeting is to be held on January 25th. Mark Hughes and Shona Craven agreed to make contact with Lesley with a view to becoming involved in the hall, which all agreed was a very important hub for the community with lots of potential uses. John Foster asked for suggestions of strategic priorities for the community council for 2016, so we can better focus our efforts and harness the ideas of members, then measure our success at the end of the year. Suggestions included:
The meeting closed at 9pm. The next meeting will take place at 7pm on Wednesday February 17th at Kinning Perk Cafe.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday December 16th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Anne Henderson, Archie Henderson, Bill Copleton, John Foster, Chris Fyfe, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, John McKinstry, Margaret Prunty, Ray Prunty, Denis Ruddy, Grace Smith, Bailie Fariha Thomas Apologies: James Adams, Shona Craven, Stephen Dornan, John Kane Chairman John Foster opened the meeting and November's minutes were approved. John then addressed correspondence received in relation to Kinning Perk's shop window decoration and displays project for Christmas – Walter Whitelaw of the Harper Church and Kinning Perk cafe requested volunteers. There were updates on the council resource centre at Ibrox Library and the new guest house (formerly the mosque), the classification of which was discussed at length. Bailie Thomas gave a summary of the relevant rules and regulations as outlined by the tourist board and health and safety legislation. A temporary traffic regulation order is in place at 245 Govan Road, which will be in effect from January 5th to April 29th 2016. The Bank of Scotland closure on April 7th 2016 has provoked much condemnation from residents. Customers are now having to go much further to do their banking. The closure announcement has resulted in protests and petitions, and Iain Henderson has written to Nicola Sturgeon about the matter. Also discussed was the police consultation for delivery of service. Online propositions to the Scottish Civic Trust consultation for area awards must be received by January 31st 2016. The Scottish Government's new planning application process is online. The eplanning website launches on January 5th 2016. Mark Hughes gave a report on Govan Loves Christmas and the surveys carried out at the event. Piggy banks and clocks were given out to children. The date of the next Govan Area Partnership is January 18th. Iain advised that the next Community Council Discussion Forum would take place on February 6th. John Foster gave an update on the Artery Project forum group's fundraising objectives. He also relayed information from Eileen Doherty of Wheatley Group that the planning application for the Ibroxholm Oval development has not been submitted. Mark's new position of vice-chairman was approved. The meeting closed at 8.30pm. The next meeting will take place on January 20th at Kinning Perk cafe.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council
Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday November 18th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Anne Henderson, Archie Henderson, Bill Copleton, Shona Craven, Jonathan Dalling (Cooper/ Cromar Architects), Stephen Dornan, John Foster, Chris Fyfe, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, David Jones, John Kane, Robyn MacPherson, John McKinstry, Margaret Prunty, Ray Prunty, Denis Ruddy, Jon Scordia (Cooper/Cromar Architects), Grace Smith, Justin Stephens, Bailie Fariha Thomas Apologies: James Adams, Eileen Doherty (Wheatley Group), Charles Mulholland Chairman John Foster opened the meeting and the previous month's minutes were approved. John provided an update on the plans to turn the former mosque into a guest house. It will not be licensed, and planning permission has been granted subject to various conditions. There were also updates on Clifford Street parking problems and the Great Scottish Run route. Bailie Thomas advised that a new CCTV camera at Ibroxholm Oval would be operational within weeks. The lack of a community council for Govan East was discussed, as was the need for Festival Park to be restored following the recent road works. The possibility of moving to an alternative venue was discussed due to the increase in attendance at our meetings this year, but all agreed to continue to meet at Kinning Perk for the time being while the refurbishment of Whitefield Hall continues. Iain Henderson gave his report on the Community Council Discussion Forum held on November 14th. New Govan Area Partnership rep Mark Hughes gave his report from his first meeting. Issues discussed included the South Sector Information Plan, problems in the Ibrox/Govan area with youth alcohol use and unemployment. Also discussed was the non-response of Rangers Football Club to correspondence about problems on match days including litter, urinating and antisocial behaviour. Bailie Thomas intimated that Govan Loves Christmas was due to take place on December 2nd and that the Govan Area Partnership would have a stall. John Foster spoke of the possibility of having members lead on particular areas (ie the arts, youth engagement, cleansing etc), and engagement with other local groups and organisations. Jon Scordia and Jonathan Dalling from Cooper/Cromar Architects spoke extensively about the proposed development at Ibroxholm Oval, which is for 65 flats of various sizes, and showed the latest plans. Concerned were expressed by residents in relation to privacy, parking and the removal of trees. The meeting closed at 8.50pm. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday December 16th at Kinning Perk.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday October 21st at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Bill Copleton, Shona Craven, Stephen Dornan, John Foster, Anne Henderson, Archie Henderson, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, David Jones, John Kane, Paul McGrath, Margaret McLean, Margaret Prunty, Ray Prunty, Ann Ross, Denis Ruddy, John Soper, Fariha Thomas Apologies: James Adams, Chris Fyfe, Charles Mulholland, Grace Smith AGM Chairman John Foster opened the AGM and gave the apologies, and the minutes of last year’s AGM were approved and seconded. John gave his report on the past year’s community council activity and expressed his delight at the progress made in terms of recruitment of 10 members, improved meeting attendance, social media presence and the successful Back Court Blitz. Those present were advised that the refurbishment of Whitefield Hall, our previous meeting place, was ongoing. Patricia Mullen is our new Elect Audit Examiner. Our next AGM will take place on Wednesday, October 19 2016. The community council voted to retain John Foster as chair, Iain Henderson as minute secretary and Shona Craven as communications officer. John McKinstry was appointed treasurer. Newly elected treasurer John McKinstry gave his report on our accounts and financial position, which was approved and seconded. The position of vice-chairman was discussed and although no formal decision was made, Mark Hughes was proposed. The possibility of Associate members was also discussed – these could include organisations as well as individuals with a role in the community. This will be discussed in more detail at a future meeting. Mark Hughes was appointed the new representative for the Govan Area Partnership, with Bill Copleton as reserve. It was also suggested that a deputy should be appointed to stand in for Iain should he be unable to attend any of the monthly discussion forums. The issue of the community council’s inventory was raised, and it was agreed that this should be obtained from the previous chair to ensure we can trace/account for any property previously purchased. It was proposed that future meetings could have specific themes, such as planning, art, cleansing and regeneration, in order to allow for detailed discussion and the creation of action plans. Regular meeting September’s minutes were approved, and John Foster shared correspondence received from various agencies. Items discussed including the proposed guest house replacing the old mosque on Paisley Road West and the proposed Ibroxholm housing development. Access/communication problems associated with the Great Scottish Run were discussed and it was agreed more notice and better communication of road closures should be provided for future events in our area. It was explained that the run organisers have an obligation to consult with community councils, and that promises were made last year after similar complaints. Iain Henderson provided his update from the monthly Community Council Discussion Forum. Shona Craven put to Paul McGrath, Southside Deputy Cleansing Manager, a number of cleansing-related issues that had been raised at meetings over the past year. Paul responded to each point in detail, advising of various reviews currently under way in the city and also of plans for the introduction of food waste recycling bins. See Appendix 1 for the issues and responses. On behalf of the community council John Foster thanked Paul for attending and responding to the concerns in such detail. James Soper from Walmer Crescent Association attended the meeting and advised that this group was holding a meeting the following Wednesday, October 27, to which local residents were invited. The meeting closed at 8.45pm. Our next meeting is on Wednesday November 18 at 7pm. Appendix 1 Cleansing Issues and Responses from Paul McGrath 1. The current system for reporting and arranging bulk uplifts seems very inefficient - on occasions multiple workers have arrived at the same address at different times to carry out the same job. For example, one coming to "pull through" items, another coming to collect them, and a third redundantly arriving after the job has been completed. How can we resolve this? Is it a problem with the way requests are made by phone or online? Can LES collate multiple requests for the same items to be uplifted, based on postcodes? Paul emphasised that bulk uplift is offered by the council as a free service but is not part of its service agreement. A city-wide review is currently under way. The council used to employ “back court men” but these are now gone and resources are stretched. Furthermore, some items (ie fridges) need to be collected by special vehicles, hence they may be left while other items are cleared. In addition, the council can only lift the items on their lists – if they take any other items lying around they expose themselves to the risk of insurance claims. A significant difficulty is that the council's complaints system is not integrated – ie the telephone complaint system is entirely separate from the online system. This goes some way to explaining the current inefficiencies identified by residents. An LES meeting will be held soon to discuss this problem. 2. Residents are not clear about the rules regarding bin and bulk collections for their streets. In many cases the bin men will state one set of rules (ie bulk items to be put out on the street) while notices in closes say another (ie bulk items to be put out the back). In many cases the notices in closes have been torn down or not stuck properly to walls to begin with. In areas with a high turnover of tenants, many people simply will not know the rules. We need to ensure the council and its staff are in agreement about how rubbish is collected, and communicate this to residents. It may be necessary for information to be provided in multiple languages. Paul advised that information about the rules for individual properties can be found online. It was suggested that posters in closes could use symbols, and that Govanhill may provide a model here. Dougie Gellan is working on this. 3. Residents are also not clear of their options regarding domestic bins - ie that wheelie bins are not provided by the council but much be purchased by residents. Residents need guidance on their options. For example, they would need to be assured before buying a wheelie bin that the bin men were willing to pull/carry it through their close/up and down stairs. How can this (and the rules in point 2) best be communicated? Can LES provide us with comprehensive rules for all streets in the area that we can post on our website? Different rules apply to different streets depending on the housing associations involved. Therefore we will need to work with both council and housing associations to communicate to residents. 4. Blue recycling bins are not emptied regularly or consistently enough. Residents appear to not know or not care what should go in a blue bin. The original labels indicating what should go in the bins have worn off, and many of the red locks have been broken. Can these be replaced/fixed? The locks were removed by the council deliberately as cardboard is now allowed in the bins and the aperture was too small to allow residents to put it in the bins. The rules on recycling will be changing soon as food waste bins are being introduced in line with EU law. These will be phased in between January and November, and will be accompanied by an information campaign. It was suggested this could be a good opportunity to inform residents about the recycling rules more broadly (including, for example, the above change regarding cardboard). 5. Grey GCC litter bin bags are regularly left out on the pavement overnight, sometimes for days at a time. In the city centre the bags never appear to be left dumped - instead, the bin men empty them into large red wheelie bins and pull these along as they go. Can a similar system be adopted in Ibrox/Cessnock to improve efficiency and reduce instances of bags being ripped open by foxes? The current system is inefficient. The first worker empties the bins and leaves the bags behind, the second comes with a vehicle to collect the bags, and if this is delayed (ie due to vehicle breakdown) a third worker presumably has to come to clear up the resulting mess. The large red bins cannot be used in our area because a specific vehicle is needed to collect these. Extra patrols have been added for Paisley Road West to try to tackle this problem area. Residents are encouraged to report any bags left lying on the pavement. 6. The area has a significant rat problem which has been impeding efforts to clean up problem areas. This will not be resolved until residents on Paisley Road West stop dumping rubbish including food waste on the pavement. We have been advised that there are many reasons for them doing this - ie in some instances back bin areas are blocked off or dangerous - and it is clear there has been no effective enforcement action. In the interests of public health, can large bins on wheels be made available to stop rubbish being dumped directly on to the pavement, with signs on them clearly indicated which buildings they are for? Work is ongoing with Public Health to tackle this problem, which is multifaceted. A significant problem is that many of the properties are privately owned and therefore the council cannot force work for example to ensure safe access to bin areas. 1280l black bins are being used although the council does not favour these as they tend to attract fly-tipping around them.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council
Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday September 16th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Anne Henderson, Archie Henderson, Shona Craven, John Foster, Chris Fyfe, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, David Jones, John Kane, Margaret MacLean, John McKinstry, Charles Mulholland, Margaret Prunty, Denis Ruddy, Grace Smith, Bailie Fariha Thomas Chairman John Foster opened the meeting with apologies from Councillor Stephen Dornan. Denis Ruddy was proposed and seconded as our tenth community councillor. John gave an update on the proposed Ibroxholm Oval development. No revised plans were available but pavilion-style units are under consideration. Denis Ruddy reported that planters had been ordered for the back courts at Harley Street, and thanked the community council again for the clean-up efforts in this area. The issue of the abandoned shop/flat at 21 Harley Street, was raised, and Fariha Thomas undertook to investigate whether the uncovered drain constituted a statutory nuisance. Chris Fyfe proposed a “Spring Clean” event to collect unwanted furniture, electrical goods etc from residents to recycle/donate to charity shops. The possibility of further litter clean-ups was discussed, and Shona Craven agreed to contact schools in the area to establish what work in this area is already taking place. Residents gave feedback on the Summer Sessions concerts in Bellahouston Park, including complaints about dropped litter and bottles left on streets. John advised there was to be a meeting on September 29th at the Palace of Arts offering people to chance to air these views. Iain Henderson agreed to attend. There was discussion about the possibility of our next meeting (the AGM on October 21st) having representation from the council's Land and Environmental Services department to address residents' concerns. Shona advised that she would put together a list of suggestions and circulate to community council members and then to LES in advance of the meeting. John advised that a public consultation event regarding the development on the Edmiston/Hinshelwood Drive site would take place on Tuesday September 22 at Ibrox Library. Iain provided his monthly forum report, and intimated that he had written to Rangers Football Club about the problems caused for residents on match days, ie urinating, litter and bottles on the streets. Licensing reviews were discussed, and resident Margaret Prunty told of her concerns about the old mosque on Paisley Road West being made into a guest house. Shona advised of the Govan Area Partnership meeting on September 17th, but unfortunately no members were available to attend. The next meeting is on November 5th - Mark Hughes advised he was willing to attend this, and to take on the role of CC representative going forward. Resident Margaret MacLean spoke of tenant/landlord problems on Elizabeth Street, as well as back-court bin problems. Fariha offered some possible solutions, emphasising that residents who wished wheelie bins were required to buy these themselves but adding that she should be able to source extra tin bins. It was also stressed that bulk uplift services were not a statutory responsibility of the council. The meeting closed at 8.30pm. The next meeting is on Wednesday October 21st at Kinning Perk.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council
Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday August 19th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Bill Copleton, Shona Craven, John Foster, Chris Fyfe, Iain Henderson, Mark Hughes, David Jones, John Kane, John McKinstry, Charles Mulholland, Margaret Prunty, Ray Prunty, Denis Ruddy, Grace Smith, Bailie Fariha Thomas Chairman John Foster opened the meeting and the minutes of June's meeting were approved. Six new community council members were welcomed subject to the submission of two revised nomination forms. John McKinstry was nominated and seconded as Treasurer. John gave an update on the proposed Ibroxholm Oval development and cleansing problems in the area. He also advised that a development is proposed for the gap site at Hinshelwood. There will be a public consultation event by Glasgow Housing Association on Thursday September 17th at Ibrox Library. Also discussed was the Summer Sessions concert series in Bellahouston Park. Councillors Kane and Thomas outlined the car parking, marshals, toilet (portaloo) facilities and shuttle buses to be provided as part of the agreement with the concert promoters. There will be a debriefing afterwards, to which the community council will be invited. This led on to discussion about the problems caused by the influx of people to Ibrox on match days and problems with litter dumping and urinating in closes. It was suggested that the community council contact Rangers directly about these issues and possible solutions. It was also suggested that local police commander John Haines be invited to a future meeting to discuss concerns. Shona Craven raised the issue of bin bags from litter bins being left uncollected on pavements for long periods, and said she was pursuing this with the council through its website and complaints procedure and would provide further update at the next meeting. Denis Ruddy provided further update on progress with smartening up the back courts bordered by Harley Street, Middleton Street, Elizabeth Street and Ibrox Street that were targeted by the community council's Back Court Blitz. He showed pictures of flower planters that had been added to the central area, and reported continuing progress regarding bulk uplift and pest (rat) control. The impending introduction of food recycling bins was discussed, with concerns raised that this was likely to increase problems with rats and foxes. Bailie Thomas advised that in pilot areas some of the bins used had been bitten open by foxes, but that the council had no option but to introduce these as the Scottish Government has passed legislation requiring them. Bill Copleton praised the council's cleansing service, saying he had not encountered any problems. Iain Henderson enquired about Whitefield Hall and was advised by Councillors Kane and Thomas that the refurbishment was taking longer than planned due to the discovery of numerous problems with the building, including the roof, electrics and possible asbestos. The refurbishment work will cost £50,000 and is due to commence on August 31. The hall's Integrated Grants Fund funding has been retained due to the importance of the hall to the local community. The hall is owned by the council but will be managed by a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), and the community council will have the opportunity to have a representative. Mark Hughes raised an issue of flickering lights near his home in Clifford Street, and of unsuccessful efforts to have the council fix the problem. The meeting was closed at 8.30pm. The next meeting will take place on Wednesday, September 17 at Kinning Perk.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council
Note of informal meeting on Wednesday July 15 at the District Bar, Paisley Road West In attendance: Shona Craven, John Foster (chairman), Chris Fyfe, Anne Henderson, Archie Henderson, Iain Henderson John McInstry, Margaret Prunty, Ray Prunty, Anne Ross and Denis Ruddy Apologies: Lorraine Horn This was an informal meeting as only three community councillors were present. John Foster opened the meeting with the apologies. The minutes of the previous meeting could not be approved due to lack of a quorum. Last month’s Back Court Blitz was discussed, and resident Denis Ruddy provided an update on what has happened since. Bulk uplifts have been arranged and rodent control actions have been stepped up. Shona Craven said she would aim to establish whether the landlords in the block are registered due to concerns about the conditions. Denis, Iain Henderson and Anne Ross raised problems with reporting cleansing issues to the council. As discussed previously, residents can be left on hold indefinitely and even when they do get through, action is not always taken to address issued raised. John advised that correspondence had been received relating to accommodation for asylum seekers in the vicinity of the Home Office building on Brand Street. Stricter conditions are being applied. Proposals for an extension to the Loudon Tavern on Copeland Road were discussed and no objections were raised. Arrangements for the Summer Sessions at Bellahouston Park were also discussed – ticket-holders are being advised there is no parking on site and they should use public transport. Residents asked whether extra clean-up services would be provided but this could not be confirmed. There was an update on the Wheatley Group’s proposals for Ibroxholm Oval but it was suggested this should be discussed in more detail at the next meeting when the consultation opens. Lewis McWilliam, a final-year student of urban planning at Glasgow University, will attend our next meeting as part of his research in development issues. Resident Archie Henderson enquired about the vacant mosque building on Paisley Road West and John confirmed it is being turned into a dentist’s surgery. It was agreed to proceed with advertising six vacancies on the community council in order to boost our numbers and ensure a quorum at future meetings. If there are more than six applicants there will be an election ahead of our next meeting on August 19. Archie raised the issue of neglect of trees planted along Paisley Road West, and described his considerable work to clear up the surrounding areas. He wishes to know if the council would plant new trees in the spaces that are now vacant. Chris Fyfe raised the problem of the property at 313 Paisley Road West, which has been fenced off due to building collapse and has been unchanged for 18 months due to a lack of funding. Shona said she would investigate this. The meeting closed at 8.10pm. Our next meeting will take place at 7pm on Wednesday, August 19, unless there is need for an election in which case the meeting will follow on from such.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council
Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday June 17th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Tommy Ball, Bill Copleton, Shona Craven, John Foster, Iain Henderson, John McKinstry, Margaret Prunty, Ray Prunty, Anne Ross, Denis Ruddy, Bailie Fariha Thomas Apologies: Lorraine Horn, John Anderson Chairman John Foster opened the meeting, gave apologies and approved the minutes from our last meeting. Correspondence was shared from Urban Roots, organisers of the Ibrox Street Party on Saturday June 20 in Ibrox Flower Field and Hinshelwood Drive, as well as further correspondence from the Wheatley Group regarding the proposed flats development in Ibroxholm Oval and the second public consultation held in Ibrox Library on June 9.The community council will continue to raise objections to this. Correspondence was also received from community councils officer Steven Dowling regarding the forthcoming community council election. Resignations have been received from Mary Dick and Maureen Thomson. Resident Denis Ruddy gave an extensive update on the cleansing problems he and fellow residents have tried to deal with in back courts, focusing on improvements as well as failures and the essential long-term solutions that need to be found.. Shona Craven provided an update from Patricia Roche of Glasgow City Council cleansing department regarding the problem of rats on Paisley Road West, explaining that work tackling this has stalled due to the worsening of the problem. Iain Henderson gave his report on a meeting held at the Pearce Insititute about the problems of alcohol in the area that was addressed by various bodies including Glasgow Council licensing standards and Community Safety Glasgow. Bailie Thomas spoke of the new planned closed circuit TV cameras and shared a large map of those that are already installed. The community council decided to hold a community clean-up event on the evening of Thursday July 9. It was decided that given Denis Ruddy's tremendous efforts with back court cleaning, his block should be the focus of our first event. The meeting place is to the the corner of Harley Street and Middleton Street and posters will be displayed in closes the weekend before. Shona Craven undertook to follow up problems identified with an abandoned newsagents shop on Harley Street. The meeting was closed at 8.30pm. Our next meeting will be held on July 15.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council
Approved minutes of meeting on Wednesday May 13th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Tommy Ball, Bill Copleton, Shona Craven, Eileen Doherty (Wheatley Group), Steven Dowling (GCC), John Foster, Iain Henderson, John McKinstry, Margaret Prunty, Denis Ruddy, Bailie Fariha Thomas Apologies: Councillors John Kane and James Adams, Jim Nicol and Lorraine Horne Chairman John Foster opened the meeting by relaying apologies received and adjustments to April minutes and introducing community council officer Steven Dowling, who spoke of the importance of attendance at the monthly meetings and in particular at a forthcoming licensing consultation meeting on Monday, June 15th at the Pearce Institute. There will be representation at this meeting from the NHS, Glasgow Council for Alcohol, Police Scotland and Community Safety Glasgow. The problems in relation to alcohol and litter on football match days in our area were raised by residents. Bailie Thomas answered concerns by announcing the current plan to have more CCTV cameras positioned in our streets to assist with health and safety matters and help curb crime. Shona Craven mentioned the forthcoming advertisement of community council vacancies, and there was discussion about the number of existing vacancies. Steven Dowling said he would write to existing councillors to establish whether they wish to continue in this capacity or resign. In doing this our community council can move forward and advertise the vacancies. Iain Henderson gave his report on the monthly community council discussion forum held on May 9. John Foster raised the issue of the community council's bank account, advising that it may be necessary to open a fresh account as this is easier than change signatories on an existing account. Eileen Doherty, representing Wheatley Homes, spoke about the recent public consultation held in Ibrox Library on March 31 on the proposed flats at Ibroxholm Oval. She reported a good turn-out and interested response. Residents Margaret Prunty, Bill Copleton and John McKinstry raised their concerns, and John Foster outlined his own investigations into the matter. There is an ongoing website consultation by the Wheatley Group as well as another public open day on June 2 from 4pm to 7.30pm [minute amendment: this date was subsequently changed to June 9]. Denis Ruddy gave a report of clean-up work he has been personally undertaking, and was commended by all for his efforts. Bailie Thomas mentioned that re-surfacing of Midlock Street and other roads in the area was due to take place within this calendar year, along with replacement of street signs. The meeting was closed at 8.45pm. The next meeting will take place on Wednesday, June 17 at Kinning Perk.
Ibrox/Cessnock Community Council
Draft minutes of meeting on Wednesday April 15th at 7pm at Kinning Perk In attendance: Councillor James Adams, John Anderson, Shona Craven, Cathie Donnelly, John Foster, Iain Henderson, John McKinstry, Robyn MacPherson, Denis Ruddy, Bailie Fariha Thomas, Margaret Prunty, Anne Ross Apologies: Bill Copleton Chairman John Foster opened the meeting by introducing Bailie Thomas, who is particularly concerned by a lot of litter problems and uncollected goods left in various back greens as well as on our streets. She spent some time addressing this matter and the most effective way of dealing with it. She said it was important for members of the community to demonstrate their commitment to helping tackle the problem. Bailie Thomas also spoke of ways to tackle dog fouling. The February meeting's minutes were approved. Chairman John Foster spoke about recent correspondence received about the refurbishment of the Urban Hotel, with good marketing and the upgrade of its leisure pool. Councillor James Adams discussed proposals for a bridge between Partick and Govan, which was made at the recent charette discussion event. The change of signatories for our community council account was approved, and we voted to begin the process of filling four vacancies on our community council. Shona Craven spoke about the Govan Area Partnership meetings and Bailie Thomas outlined the aims and objectives of the partnership. The next meeting is on June 6. Iain Henderson spoke about the March Community Council Discussion Forum and a meeting on April 15 at the Burgh Court Building. Topics including the aims and objectives of community councils and a proposed increase in administrative allowances. Resident Anne Ross spoke of difficulties getting matters such as bulk uplift and replacement of bins attended to when phoning numerous departments at Glasgow City Council. Councillors Adams and Thomas answered her concerns. John Foster gave an update on plans for flats at Ibroxholm Oval by the Wheatley Group. The recent meeting about these plans at Ibrox Library was well attended. The planning application has not yet been lodged but we agreed a motion to object to their proposals in their current form due to concerns raised by residents, particularly those in Whitefield Road who will be most affected. The meeting closed at 8.30pm. The next meeting will take place on Wednesday, May 13 at Kinning Perk |
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