Dear All.
Please find attached the minutes of our November Meeting of the Lang bank Community Council.
As well as these minutes, please also find a PDF version of the Renfrewshire Council "New Parking Strategy", which was outlined by Cllr Fiona Nicolson at the meeting.
Please note - that the LCC has not yet received the Minutes of our AGM Meeting held on the 11th of October from the Renfrewshire Council representative, who chaired this particular meeting. I will forward them on to all of you as soon as I receive them from her.
Best regards,
Neil G F Barrington
Chairman
Langbank Community Council.
LANGBANK COMMUNITY COUNCIL
MEETING MINUTES
WEDNESDAY 8th NOVEMBER 2023
Meeting was held in the LANGBANK COMMUNITY CENTRE, MIDDLEPENNY ROAD @ 7.30pm
Present: Neil Barrington (chair), Jacqueline Doherty (secretary), Julie Gilmour (treasurer), Caroline Bryce, John O’Brien and Maggie Hancock.
Also in attendance: Cllr James MacLaren, Cllr Fiona Airlie-Nicolson and Gillian Kulwicki.
Apologies: Iain McDougall, Carly Deheer, James Hunter and Cllr Colin McCulloch.
Start and welcome:
The chair welcomed everyone and opened the meeting at 7.30pm.
Police Report:
This report was emailed. Between 1st October 2023 and 31st October 2023 - there have been a total of 3 recorded crimes - zero have so far been detected.
1 common assault, 1 drug offence (possession) and 1 Road Traffic Offence (s170).
An email has been sent asking for any update on the stolen “Beat The Street” box, but no response received to date.
Acceptance of last meeting minutes:
No matters raised. Proposed Julie Gilmour and seconded Jacqueline Doherty.
Village website and Facebook updates:
Minutes of meetings have been added to website. No issues with Facebook page since last meeting.
Update on A8 Roundabout Survey from Gavin Newland’s office:
The survey has now closed and results collated. Following this a letter containing results has been sent to Transport Scotland.
Question. What request was made in relation to the results?
As part of the survey several solutions were suggested – the results of these are provided below:
The survey aimed to obtain the views and experiences of residents who use the roundabout, or are affected by the traffic associated with it. 427 households were contacted and 227 responded, which is a response rate of 52%. Throughout the data collected the consistent theme outlined is ongoing concerns regarding the speed of traffic approaching and travelling through the roundabout, and the volume of accidents at the roundabout.
The results of the survey have shown the extent to which the roundabout has impacted residents, with 83% of participants reporting having experienced a near miss on the roundabout.
The final question in the survey provided a list of potential traffic safety measures and asked residents to rank these in order from
(1 would most like to be implemented --- to 5 would least like to be implemented).
The results in order of most votes submitted as ‘1’ would most like to see implemented are as follows.
1. Traffic Light Control on the roundabout to assist drivers leaving and entering the village safely. (109 votes)
2. Reconstruction of the roundabout to force reduced speed on the approach of A8 traffic. (68 votes)
3. Average speed cameras to assist in the slowing down of A8 traffic approaching the roundabout. (41votes)
4. Improved illuminated traffic-activated chevron signage on the roundabout to encourage speed reduction. (21 votes)
5. The introduction of an East & West single-lane approach to the roundabout as a speed reduction measure. (16 votes)
Question; Are Transport Scotland (TS) obliged to respond or indeed to take any action?
TS aren’t obliged to respond, however in meeting with TS they did seem to be some sincerity in their intention to explore the issues.
Double yellow lines conformance at COAST restaurant on Main Road:
This does seem to have made a difference. It was noted that there are still issues with cars exiting the car park onto Main Road.
Clyde Coastal Path Meeting developments:
No update at present, hope to have an update for next meeting.
Langbank Church conversion follow up:
Waiting for Clyde Presbytery to respond – the redevelopment depends on this response.
Village Community Centre update:
No update re hall.
Village Activities:
It has been noted that there has been a recent overlap of activities from some of the village groups. It is understood that all of these groups need to do some fundraising to keep going, however it is difficult in a small village as they are all reliant on a small pool of people to support the various activities. To try to minimise the duplication of events/calendar clashes it is proposed to have a village events calendar. Jacqueline Doherty agreed to co- ordinate this.
Street lamp replacements:
A timeframe for re-installation/update from Renfrewshire Council (RC). (See Cllr MacLaren’s report).
Question:- Which areas are affected and who is responsible for scheduling?
This situation impacts Bridge of Weir, Bishopton, Erskine and Inchinnan as well as Langbank.
RC Environment, Housing and Infrastructure – responsible for budgeting – a budget will be set and therefore priorities will need to be identified.
Recent flooding - Drainage clearing:
The “Gully slurper /sweeper” was cleaning Station Road and pavements this afternoon.
Bottom of Station Road at junction with Main Road was flooded again this morning.
Question:- Which is the best number at RC to contact for instances of road cleaning/clearing?
Question:- asked to define what are our CC boundary limits, as there is a major issue with water flowing onto the road along the Houston Road near Drums estate.
Noted that there was also flooding at Finlaystone burn last week.
Cllr MacLaren’s monthly input:
Roads
Blocked Gullies: - I am told that The gullies on Station Road were cleared out on the 28th October. I have checked the gullies this week. The gully at the junction with Elmbank Rd is solid as is the gully at the bottom Station Road at the foot of the wall on the pavement. I have asked for these to be cleared and the road swept of leaves.
Road Alerts: - You can register for South-West roadwork alerts here: https://swtrunkroads.scot/roadwork-alerts/
Traffic Islands: - Traffic islands are often being hit by vehicles. I have suggested that the kerb stones should be painted white.
Damaged 30 mph sign: - Our Signing Contractor has informed me that works to repair/replace the sign will commence on 20th November 2023.
Flooding at Finlaystone Burn: - I have requested the installation of multi gullies on OGR to deal with future flooding, but this work will depend on the funding being available.
Pavement Parking Ban: - As part of the Transport (Scotland) 2019 Act, pavement parking was banned. In order to bring in the ban, exemptions must be assessed and decided upon. Over the next 6 weeks there will be staff on the streets at various times of the day and evening surveying those areas where there is potential for an exemption to the pavement parking ban.
Hole in pavement, Middlepenny Road: - There is a hole at the side of the pavement next to the village hall. I have asked that this be filled in.
Parking: - I note from the Minutes that parking is still an issue in the village, particularly outside Coast. Issues can be raised with the council wardens by contacting on 0300 300 0380 (option 1) or by email to “wardens.es@renfrewshire.gov.uk “
Visit to Langbank PS
P4/5 at Langbank Primary School are working on a special project regarding road safety outside of their school and are specifically looking at pick-up and drop-off times and the children would love to seek support from the community. I am going along to hear what they have to say.
Scotrail Changes
There is a draft ScotRail timetable which is out for consultation at the moment which is proposing changes which affect the rail timetable and destinations from Langbank (June-December 2024). It looks like only the Glasgow train to Wemyss Bay will stop at Langbank so there is no longer be a direct service to Greenock or Gourock from Langbank. Residents can make representation at https://www.scotrail.co.uk/ayrshire-and-inverclyde-timetable- consultation . Note the consultation closes on 20 th November.
Street Lighting
I brought a motion to the Council meeting to get some action on the large number of cut down lampposts in the village. A report will come to the ILE board meeting and in the meantime, Roads are looking to resolve some of the darker spots. A tender for the contract will be awarded at the upcoming Finance Board. I am hopeful that the darker spots will receive new lighting very soon.
Bus Network Public Engagement
Whether you use buses regularly, sometimes or not at all, the Council wants to hear from you.
The Council is gathering feedback to hear your experience and consider what improvements can be made to the bus network across Renfrewshire. You can have your say by completing a short online survey at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/bus-survey . If you’re not able to complete the survey online, call 0300 300 0380 or emailRenfrewshireBus@systra.com . The survey is open until Friday 24 November 2023.
Provost's Community Awards 2024
Nominations are now open and there are five categories for which nominations are invited: Arts & Culture/Community Group/ Community Volunteer/ Employee of the Year/ Sport. More information and nomination form is at https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/provostawards2024 .
Funding
£1.5M Sustainable Communities Fund will support community collaboration with the aim of regenerating local spaces, tackling climate change, and reducing inequalities, such as isolation, food insecurity, healthy eating, health inequalities and fuel poverty. Constituted community groups can apply for up to £10,000, £10 to £25,000 or up to
£100,000 in either capital or revenue funding for their project. More info at https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/13563/Sustainable-Communities-Fund
Station Rd Park
You Decide Project: - The renewal of this playpark is out to tender with a submission date early November. Installation should begin in the Spring.
Broken wall: - Land services advise that the repair was started in Spring, but it had to be delayed due to nesting birds close by, but the work is re-starting soon so the repair is in hand.
Team Up To Clean Up
Through Team Up To Clean Up, there is a limited supply of salt spreaders and salt for distribution to communities. Jacqueline Doherty to contact “TUTCU” to ask about these for Langbank.
Question: Will Station and Middlepenny Roads be prioritised over the winter for gritting. These roads should be gritted as a priority as they are on the school bus route.
Cllr Fiona Airlie-Nicolson’s report
Langbank Roundabout review
Following discussions/meetings with Transport Scotland, Langbank Community Council and Renfrewshire Council….Gavin Newlands MP and myself felt it was important that we hear from the residents of their views/ concerns in relation to safety at the roundabout. In partnership with the Community Council we agreed to survey residents to include their feedback in the review.
437 paper surveys and cover letters were sent to households in Langbank currently on the electoral register, (who haven not opted out of contact). This equates to 88% of households in Langbank.
There was a positive response rate to the survey with 227, over 50% being submitted. The final report has been sent to Transport Scotland along with a video that had been provided by a participant. We now await a response from Transport Scotland.
Sustainable Communities fund
There is 1.5 million available in the fund to Community Groups for innovative, sustainable projects that will enhance where they live. This fund brings together the Council’s Community Empowerment Fund and Climate Change Action Fund into one easy-to-access process, the new Sustainable Communities Fund aims to regenerate local spaces and tackling inequality through community collaboration.
Potential projects that could be funded include the restoration or development of buildings, grants for equipment to support community initiatives like bike repairs, tools for hire or community kitchens, or enhancements to local biodiversity through planting projects, growing grounds or community gardens.
Other potential project areas include funding to investigate community asset transfers, to purchase infrastructure or equipment for improvements to community spaces, or to recruit, train and retain volunteers. Constituted community groups can apply for up to £10,000, £10-25,000 or up to £100,000 for their project depending on its size and scale and council officers will support all applicants to apply if needed.
Park Mains High update:
Space planning specialists, Space Zero, have issued surveys to pupils, parents and carers on the current school and the proposed extension, and to the wider community on how the school could be better used out-of-school hours as a community space, and will continue to liaise with those groups.
They are also visiting the school alongside our council officers to assess how the current building operates. This insight will inform the design process for the extension.
Park Mains classroom block
They will shortly be moving a unit with space for five classrooms to the grounds of Park Mains High School. This will be fitted with all the necessary equipment to be used as learning spaces on a temporary basis from April 2024.
R.C Parking Strategy:
In response to concerns about car parking across the Renfrewshire area a new parking strategy which sets out plans to modernise an approach which will help address concerns from local residents, businesses, public transport operators and local councillors was approved at ILE board today.
The five-year plan will be phased over the next few years from February 2024 and is expected to generate much needed income for assisting with investment in terms of enforcement, local road repairs etc. The proposal retains one hour free parking for all council-owned car parks and is to be extended to also apply to on street parking.
A copy of this report is available as a PDF attachment.
Planning Application 23/0128/PP 30 Glamping Pods, Gleddoch House:
Residents have met with RC with regards to concerns around this development and failures of Gleddoch to comply to previous planning conditions.
Aspects of this meeting were positive, but in other areas there were huge concerns, this was in respect of wildlife and also issues pertaining to deeds and water supply. There is inconsistent information in relation to the water supply with some parties suggesting this will come from the “bore hole”, but Scottish water have stated that the mains water supply could cope with this – this is concerning as previously there was insufficient water to deal with a fire at a house in the village.
Currently three freedom of information requests are outstanding !!
Streetscene activities at MUGA:
Street Stuff are currently back and being enjoyed by the children – this has been paid for by the money raised at the village Gala Day.
Application made to the “Winter Connections grant” to run 4 soup and sandwiches, a bingo and another 10 week block of Street Stuff.
There are other areas where the children of Langbank are disadvantaged and it would appear discriminated against by RC. Currently the provision for “Active schools activities” in the primary school has been reduced to once per week for P1-3, with families having to transport children to Park Mains High School to access the vast majority of activities.
Park Mains have had to reduce the late bus provision to two evenings a week, which assumes that as pupils now all have an entitlement to free bus transport and therefore there should be no cost to them travelling home by public transport. Unfortunately, no consideration was given to the fact that for many years there has been NO public bus service to Langbank, and hence some pupils from the village have been unable to access after school activities and study classes as a result of this.
AOB.
Proposed changes to Scotrail summer timetable:
Current proposal would involve the removal of the early train stopping at Langbank, currently 5.44am. This would negatively impact village particularly as there is no bus service as an alternative, thereby meaning villagers need to rely on own transport or taxi – often not feasible and certainly not good for the environment. Discussion around possibility of also removing some of direct services to Gourock. As many people as possible should be encouraged to complete consultation.
https://www.scotrail.co.uk/ayrshire-and-inverclyde-timetable-consultation
Bus network survey:
The following email was received from RC:
We are working with independent transport consultants SYSTRA who have developed an online survey to capture people’s views.
It takes about 10 minutes to complete and asks questions about how people travel around Renfrewshire, the experience of using buses and what improvements could be made.
All responses are confidential and will remain anonymous. (www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/bus-survey)
The survey is open until Friday 24 November 2023.
If anyone is unable to complete the survey they can call us on 0300 300 0380 or email RenfrewshireBus@systra.com and we will arrange for a written copy to be shared for them to complete.
Drop-in events:
Systra are hosting drop-in sessions to capture feedback in person taking place this week. Two events in Erskine and Paisley have taken place and the remaining events are at:
Renfrew Braehead Shopping Centre on Wednesday 1 November, 1 to 7.30pm
Bridge of Weir Cargill Hall on Thursday 2 November, 10am to 4pm
Johnstone Library on Friday 3 November, 10 to 4pm
Information re survey has been shared on Community Facebook Page – reminder to be issued.
Langbank Primary school tackling parking issues:
The pupils and staff at Langbank Primary are working on initiatives to try to encourage families to park more considerately and safely when dropping off and in particular picking up pupils from school. They have enlisted help from the wardens and are in the process of making a safety video for families – it is hoped this can also be shared on the Community Facebook page.
Banning of pavement parking:
The following email was received from the Active Travel Officer at RC:
As part of the Transport (Scotland) 2019 Act, pavement parking was banned. In order to bring in the ban, exemptions must be assessed and decided upon. An external consultant has been engaged by Renfrewshire Council to assist with this process. Over the next 6 weeks (approximately, this is weather dependent) there will be staff on the streets at various times of the day and evening surveying those areas where there is potential for an exemption to the pavement parking ban. They are employed by “Jacobs”, and working on behalf of Renfrewshire Council, and will identify themselves as such.
Question: asked as to how this will be policed. This will be responsibility of RC wardens.
Park Mains High School Proposed extension:
The following email was received from Space Zero who are conducting a number of community focus groups with regards to the extension of Park Mains:
To accommodate the increased numbers of children attending Park Mains High School, Elected Members approved the design and build of an extension to the existing school.
Space Zero, specialist in the design of environments of learning, have been commissioned to support with the design of the extension. Space Zero will be working closely with us over the next year on a fully engaged process where key stakeholders will be invited to participate in interviews, focus groups and steering groups.
A focus group is being convened for members of the community to share their ideas and views about the design of the extension.
The sessions will be held online and will last 1.5 hours. The date is the 27th November, @ 6.30pm
We are seeking 2 representatives to participate in the group. Please can you send the email addresses for each representative by the end of next week so an invite can be sent for the groups.
Chairman Neil Barrington and Maggie Hancock will attend on behalf of the LCC. There is also a meeting on 20th November and Julie Gilmour will attend – this in her capacity as member of PMHSPC.
Firework display at Dumbarton:
There were a number of cars parked on the north side of Main Road to watch this event. This has received some complaints, however it was noted that perhaps some kind of fundraiser could be run to capitalise on those stopping off for this event.
Christmas Lights and tree light switch on:
The 10 lights purchased with Local Area Partnership grant and Gleddoch Hotels donation have now been sited on Main Road. Unfortunately mix up has meant these haven’t been located on agreed lamp posts, however this is due to be rectified. We are grateful to John Wallace from RC for all of his help with this matter.
The tree light up will take place on Sunday 26th November, with a Village Christmas singalong in the church at 6pm followed by the tree light up at 7.00pm. Mulled wine and treats will be on offer for a small donation with funds going towards supporting further Street Scene sessions at the MUGA.
Retiral of Anne McNaughton:
Anne is the Senior Committee Services Officer for Renfrewshire Council and is responsible for liaising with LCC amongst her other roles for RC. Thre LCC secretary - Jacqueline to pass on best wishes to Anne on behalf of LCC.
Meeting closed
Chairman thanked everyone for their attendance and closed the meeting.