Woodhill Residents Group
Minutes of Annual General Meeting
held at St Ninian’s High School
Monday 12 November 2007
PRESENT
(Alphabetical order)
Betty Logan
Jim Logan
Robert Lowe
Donald Macdonald (Chairman)
Anne Mullin
Jackie Mullin (Vice Chairman)
Tom Russell
Wilma Scott (Secretary)
Jack Scott
APOLOGIES
(alphabetical order)
Angela Guthrie
Councillor Alex Hannah
Councillor Gordan Low
Rosaleen McDowall
Dominic Notarangelo
Councillor Michael O’Donnell
Ian Tyldesley
Michele Tyldesley
Welcome
Donald opened the meeting be welcoming those present. He was particularly pleased to see Robert back after what has been a rather long illness and, on behalf of the Group, he wished him continued good health.
Minutes
Donald invited the Group to read through the minutes. Jackie moved acceptance of the minutes and this was seconded by Jack.
Matters arising
Graffiti
Wilma was pleased to report that following correspondence between Councillors Hannah, Low and O’Donnell and herself on behalf of the Group, the graffiti on retail premises at the top of Woodhill had been removed. Wilma intimated that at a recent meeting, with Councillor Hannah she had taken the opportunity to thank him on behalf of the Group.
Chair’s Report
Beginning his report, Donald referred to the recent success of the “Briggs in Bloom”. This event had been well supported, culminating on Sunday 25 November when over sixty grandparents, parents and children turned out for the final “bulb planting.” The weather on the day had been perfect and with refreshments provided by local supermarkets Asda and Morrisons and cups provided by Burger King a wonderful afternoon was enjoyed by all. Along with children from St Helen’s, Wester Cleddens and Woodhill Primary Schools and the 64th Glasgow Girls Brigade, some 5000 bulbs had been planted.
In conclusion Donald wished to record the invaluable assistance which had been provided by
Lesley Scott, Greenspace Officer from East Dunbartonshire Council and the contribution made by the Council in providing the bulbs. Everyone involved could now look forward to what it is hoped will be a “blooming” good display come spring 2008.
Wilma intimated that a few “goodies” remained which could be enjoyed at the forthcoming event proposed for Sunday 16 December.
Bishopbriggs Academy
Donald confirmed that he had written to Councillors Hannah, Low and O’Donnell requesting their assurance that all planning conditions would be adhered to thus ensuring that the building of the new school would run as smoothly as possible. In his reply Councillor Low had confirmed that he had previously spoken to the Planning Manager, Nigel Hooper, about the Group’s concerns and gave his assurance that he would again raise the general issue of ensuring that the various conditions are met.
This assurance was gratefully accepted by the Group.
Donald raised the possibility of “flash flooding”. This was evidenced this summer down south when a week’s rain fell during a brief period of time causing enormous damage to property and risk to and /loss of life. From the minutes which appear on the Parent Council website, it would suggest that it is not intended to put in a SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage System). Such a system is environmentally friendly as it captures the rainwater and allows it to soak away gradually rather than it flowing into the local drainage system. If indeed this is the case, it is important to find out what will be put in its place. After all it is on record that excessive amounts of rain have fallen in the recent past and that the drains have been unable to cope with the amount of water created. This has resulted in damage to properties in the vicinity. It should be remembered that many properties lie lower than the level both of the adjacent road and the site of the new school.
It was agreed that this matter should be pursued and reported to the next meeting of the Group.
Donald raised the problem of the fencing at the top of Clair Road. This had been put in place when the pathway leading to St Ninian’s High School had been shut off to allow excavation on the site of the new school. Donald intimated that he intended to write to Councillors Hannah, Low and O’Donnell drawing their attention to what was considered to be “an accident waiting to happen” either by the collapse of the fencing on to a passerby or by providing an entry for a child or adult to enter the building site.
He would report further on this at the next meeting.
Play Areas
Wilma confirmed that it was hoped to have a meeting with Torrance Initiative on Wednesday
19 December. A report on this meeting would be given at the next meeting.
Briggs in Bloom
Although this item was covered in Chair’s Report a brief discussion took place regarding a similar event and possible locations for 2008. It was decided to await the “outcome” of 2007’s event before discussing locations for 2008.
Dairsie Crescent – Football
Wilma confirmed that, as requested, she had written to the family concerned informing them of
Councillor Low’s remarks regarding the “No Football” sign at the above location. She had received an acknowledgement from them.
Travel Plan/Survey
Wilma confirmed that, as requested, she had written to Councillors Hannah, Low and O’Donnell asking if they could pursue the above item on behalf of the Group. Although further correspondence had taken place between herself and Councillor O’Donnell, as yet there was nothing further to report on this matter.
School Buses
Wilma confirmed that meantime there was nothing further to report on this matter.
Funds
Wilma confirmed that the monies received at the last meeting had been lodged with the Bank.
No further monies were available at the time of the meeting.
Grants
Donald was disappointed to report that following our request to East Dunbartonshire Council under the Community Grant Scheme he had been informed that this had been turned down.
Wilma intimated that earlier that day she had been telephoned by Jim Wright of the
Housing Committee within the Council who had informed her that the Group’s application had been passed to him for consideration. However, to facilitate this he required further information. Although she had tried to provide the information requested by Jim, she felt that Donald would be able to provide more comprehensive answers. At the conclusion it was decided that Wilma would contact Jim to set up a telephone dialogue between Donald and Jim and this she agreed to do.
Wimpey – Proposed Developments
The Group viewed with interest the plans for the proposed Wimpey developments within the Woodhill area.
Packaging
Donald confirmed that he had written to Greggs plc suggesting that in view of the “Packaging (Reduction) Bill” recently presented to Parliament and the negative publicity now covering the use of polythene bags, that this might be an ideal opportunity for the organization to review their packaging regulations. To date no reply had been received.
Scooter
Wilma confirmed that at a recent meeting of the Community Council she had informed the attending police officers of the use being made of local footpaths by speeding scooter drivers. It was confirmed that they were already aware of the situation and it was anticipated that charges would result.
Schoolchildren
Donald referred to an e-mail received from a local resident regarding the hundreds of children it was anticipated would use roads adjacent to the new school. He pointed out that although this problem had been raised before, it had not been addressed in detail. Although he also anticipates litter being a problem, he feels that this could be resolved by legally enforcing fines. In essence he has asked the Group to require the local councillors to address this situation before it becomes a problem.
Following a discussion it was agreed that the councillors should be informed of this resident’s concerns and Wilma was asked to write to them accordingly. She was also asked to acknowledge his e-mail.
Traffic problems
Once again the problem of inconsiderate parking in and around Woodhill Road was raised. Indeed an e-mail had been received from another resident pointing out that drivers were now parking over and opposite driveways in Thrums Avenue and carrying out dangerous manoeuvres into Thrums Gardens. These problems were echoed by other members of the Group who instanced occasions when vehicles had been parked on driveways without the home owner’s permission.
The whole problem is that there is insufficient parking adjacent to a very busy shopping area. Although there are customers who require only to park for a few minutes, there are also those who require to park for considerably longer periods. One solution would be to create parking facilities behind the shops but since this area is privately owned this creates yet another problem. Random checks by the police and parking warden would be helpful and the enforcement of fines may act as a deterrent. This item was left for discussion at a later date.
Woodhill Walkers
Donald suggested the establishing of a walking group. His idea was that a group of like-minded individuals would meet at a designated location and go walking around the local area. Walking was now considered to be a healthy pursuit and doing so in a group was much safer than and individual walking on his/her own.
He intended to include this idea on the Group’s website to see gauge what support there would be. He would report further on this at the next meeting.
Cleddens Childcare Nursery
Cleddens Childcare has requested that their participation in Briggs in Bloom is noted. The group will send them a letter / certificate thanking them for their participation.
Wooden Policeman
As intimated in the last minutes and with the full approval of the local police, it was intended to place the “wooden policeman” in Menteith Avenue in the very near future. This should be regarded purely as a “gimmick” in the hope that it would cause speeding motorists to slow down. It was hoped that the local press would pick this up and include it in a future edition and if it achieved its aim, it could be moved around the area. It was hoped to report further on this item at the next meeting.
Car Boot Sale
Donald confirmed that he had written to a local garage requesting the “donated” use of a vehicle to be used to collect items for the Car Boot Sale scheduled for Sunday 16 December. To date no reply had been received. Donald confirmed that items for the sale would be uplifted on Saturday 15 December and this was duly noted.
Hogmanay
Donald informed the Group that the Community Council would be holding a Torchlight Procession on Hogmanay leaving at 7.00 pm to which everyone was welcome.
Next Meeting
Unless intimated otherwise, the next meeting will be held at 7.00 pm on Monday 14 January 2008 at
St Ninian’s High School.
There being no other business the meeting ended at 8.30 pm.
Woodhill Residents Group
Minutes of Annual General Meeting
held at St Ninian’s High School
Monday 12 November 2007
PRESENT
(Alphabetical order)
Betty Logan
Jim Logan
Donald Macdonald (Chairman)
Rosaleen McDowall
Alan Moir
Anne Mullin
Jackie Mullin (Vice Chairman)
Dominic Notarangelo
Tom Russell
Wilma Scott (Secretary)
Jack Scott
Ian Tyldesley
APOLOGIES
(alphabetical order)
Angela Guthrie
Councillor Alex Hannah
Councillor Gordan Low
Robert Lowe
Angela McDonald (
Lesley Scott (Greenspace Officer)
John Timoney (Community Support Officer)
Michele Tyldesley
Welcome
Donald opened the meeting be welcoming those present and in particular Alan Moir, a local resident and former councillor of East Dunbartonshire who had come along to the meeting as a visitor.
Minutes
Donald invited the Group to read through the minutes, after which acceptance of them was proposed by Dominic and seconded by Tom.
Matters arising/AOCB
AOCB
Donald asked if there were any matters arising or any items to be brought up under AOCB so that he might set aside time. It was confirmed that an item relating to “Scooters/Mopeds” would be raised under AOCB.
Planning Hearings
Dominic then referred to his attendance at a recent planning hearing held in Kilmardinny House. The behaviour exhibited during the evening had been appalling. As each side had attempted to put forward its views, those opposing had stamped their feet and shouted over those speaking. Dominic observed that such behaviour would have been less likely or indeed would not have been tolerated had the hearing been held within the Council Chambers. He concluded by saying that decisions should not go the way of those who protest the loudest.
Alan, speaking from his stance as a former councillor, agreed that such situations were unacceptable and concurred entirely with Dominic’s views.
Donald confirmed that in his reply to Alan Sim, Head of Planning, East Dunbartonshire Council, he had expressed the Group’s hope for total impartiality regarding the running of Planning Hearings, suggesting that the chair of the planning committee should not also chair the planning hearing. From the acknowledgement received from Alan Sim, it did not appear that there would be consultation on this matter, and in this regard Donald expressed his disappointment.
Chair’s Report
Donald began his report by referring back to the May elections, thanking once again those who had encouraged and assisted him in his bid to become a local councillor. “Clean up the World” day held in September had been a success with some 30 people turning up on what was probably one of the wettest days of the autumn so far.
He reported that, as requested, he had submitted objections to the proposed Wimpey development on the grounds of increased road traffic, the adequacy of the capacity of the new Bishopbriggs Academy and the fact that the development includes land designed as Green Belt. Concluding, he had intimated the Group’s hope that it would be invited to engage with both the planning department and the developers in this matter.
Rosie entered the meeting at this point.
Donald then introduced the Group to his “wooden policeman”. With the knowledge and approval of the local police, it was intended to place this “officer”, suitably clad with a high visibility vest, in the garden of one of the residents in Menteith Avenue. It was hoped that this would encourage “speeding” drivers to slow down.
Discussion then took place on the wording of the petition which it is intended to circulate in the around the area of Menteith Avenue. At its conclusion it was decided that despite the reservations expressed by many of the Group, reference should be made specifically to the installation of “speed bumps”.
In the first instance, the petition will be limited to the area mentioned above and taken around by Angela and Rosie. It may be that this will progress to Linnhe/Rannoch Avenues but this will be for future discussion.
Election of Office Bearers
Before commencing election of office bearers, Jackie, in his capacity as Vice Chair was invited to take control of the meeting. He then asked for nomination for the position of Chair. Jackie proposed Donald which was seconded by Tom. There being no other nominations, Donald was duly re-elected as Chair. Resuming his position as Chair of the meeting, Donald asked for nominations for Vice Chair. Jackie was nominated by Dominic and seconded by Rosie. Again with no other nominations Jackie was duly re-elected as Vice Chair. For the position of Secretary/Treasurer Ian nominated Wilma and this was seconded by Anne. No other nominations received, Wilma was duly re-elected.
Bishopbriggs Academy
Donald confirmed that following contact with the Council, he had received an e-mail from Russell Cramond Liaison Manager for the East Dunbartonshire Schools PPP. In this e-mail Mr Cramond had sought to give assurances that work activities would not commence before 8.00 am and that the security guard would remind operatives of this as they arrived in the morning.
Although there is no particular planning condition pertaining to lighting itself, it is accepted that the security lighting shining directly into the rear bedrooms of some of the homes in Torr Road is causing a disturbance and as a “Considerate Contractor” Morgan Ashurst/AMEC JV will endeavour to shield this from neighbours where possible. Indeed at time of writing the e-mail, the angle of the lighting within the compound had been adjusted and the possibility of using light deflectors had been investigated.
Although the quality of work carried out by the road sweeper is under review, planning conditions are being followed with regard to preventing deposition of deleterious materials on the public highway.
With regard to excessive noise during the positioning of the steel framework, although this has been undertaken with the minimum of disruption to neighbouring residential properties, an environmental advisor from Morgan Ashurst has been asked to review the noise levels within the site and ensure that they are within safe a limit.
An assurance was also received that plant would not be removed from the site outwith permitted hours.
Dominic intimated that if the problem with light pollution continues, this could be passed over to the Environment Department within the Council for their attention.
At the conclusion of discussion, it was agreed that the Group should write to the three councillors within the area asking what steps they are going to take to make sure that all of the conditions laid down are met. Although Dominic pointed out that councillors in general have no technical ability, Donald felt that they should be responsible for the work carried out by their officers and their representatives as they go along. Wilma was asked to draft a letter to this effect to be sent to the councillors; Dominic should be asked to view this before it is sent and to offer comment where appropriate. In drawing this item to a close, Alan stressed that it was in everyone’s interest, including that of the councillors that the building of the new school should run as smoothly as possible.
Before moving on to the next item, Donald was asked about the excess water which will collect on the site from time to time. The lack of appropriate drainage could have massive repercussions for the local residents. It was agreed that reassurance on this should also be sought from the councillors.
Play areas
Donald invited Ian to give his report on the meeting of the Park Sub-committee held on 22 October 2007 which had been attended by Ian, Michelle and local resident Angela McDonald .
In his opening remarks Ian indicated that following discussion the group had decided firstly that Menteith/Etive Park should be the focus of the group’s activity. Secondly to engage initially in a “fact-finding” phase which would clarify the aims of the group, what the requirements were, how this would benefit the community and finally what the short, medium and long term objectives were. A realistic timescale for this was agreed to be in the region of two years.
Lesley Scott of Greenspace has indicated her willingness to offer support and advice and to introduce the group to the Torrance Play Park Initiative which had already gone through this process successfully. A meeting with this group and Lesley Scott has yet to be arranged and a report on this meeting will be given at a future date.
In the meantime, acknowledging that poor lighting can be a contributory fact to vandalism and following on remarks made earlier by Councillor Hannah, Ian had written to Councillor Hannah asking if Council money could be made available to improve the lighting in the park. A reply was awaited.
Ian acknowledged that there were many aspects to be considered, but considered that the opinion of young people was perhaps paramount. It was hoped to tap into the views of local youth groups and Angela was currently looking into establishing links with local youth work schemes.
This view was endorsed by Alan who added that many projects can take years to come to fruition, but that those “teenage driven” have a greater chance of success especially when a “hands off” approach by the Council is followed, offering advice and support only when asked.
Ian went on to say that the group felt that currently the park lacked an “identity” and that to re-name it and to include signage would be beneficial. In fact it may be that local schools could be asked to take part in a competition to rename/redesign the park; the name of Woodhill Community Park has already been suggested.
Concluding his remarks, Ian indicated that a copy of the full group report was available and could be obtained from Wilma.
Thanking Ian for his remarks Donald indicated that it may be helpful regarding the renaming/redesigning stage to invite on board the Active Schools Co-ordinator, Lindsey Jackson. This was noted by Ian.
“Briggs in Bloom”
Wilma informed the Group that some 600 bulbs were planted by the 64th Glasgow Girls Brigade on Tuesday
6 November. Some 15 girls and their leaders attended the event. The girls were helped by Community Support Officers Hugh O’Hare and John Timoney, her husband Jack and herself. The entire event had been co-ordinated by Lesley Scott of Greenspace also in attendance. The evening was rounded off for the girls with hot chocolate and biscuits back at the church hall. A great time was had by all!
Donald then confirmed that Wester Cleddens and Woodhill Primary Schools would take part in the bulb planting on a school day; Cleddens Child Care also wished to take part and would do so on Sunday 25 November.
Wilma indicated that it was hoped that St Helen’s Primary School would also take part; confirmation of this was awaited.
Donald then asked for volunteers to distribute flyers which Lesley Scott had kindly offered to run off for the Group. The following indicated their willingess to take part.
Betty
Donald
Ian
Jack
Jackie
Rosie
Wilma
Rosie’s offer to approach the youth club run in St Dominic’s Church on a Tuesday evening was accepted. She would liaise with Wilma in this regard.
Donald suggested that perhaps Asda/Morrison could be approached to provide hot chocolate/biscuits which could be enjoyed at the conclusion of the bulb planting on 25 November. Rosie agreed to chase this up. Wilma reminded Donald that she still had crisps and juice remaining from the “Clean up the World” event which could also be used on the day.
Concluding discussion on this event, Donald confirmed that although it had not been possible to establish a “sponsoring” link between the Group, the bulb planting and Marie Curie Hospice, Wilma had uplifted can/stickers from the Hospice and these would be available on the various days on which bulb planting took place.
Dairsie Crescent – Football
Replying to a request from the Group, Councillor Gordan Law gave the following explanation regarding the “No Football” sign at the above location.
Following a request from a local resident in June of this year Greenspace had erected the sign: an inspection of the site had shown remains of a pole/support. However, when Greenspace tried to locate a record/correspondence in relation to the sign they were unable to do so probably because the sign predated East Dunbartonshire Council. As a consequence of this, Greenspace proposed to remove the sign and follow the normal petition process should anyone wish it to be reinstated. Councillor Low had suggested, however, that the Council first contact the local residents to establish their views before taking any action. Councillor Low has indicated that he will contact the Group should there be any further developments.
Travel Plan/Survey
Wilma reported that despite sending a reminder, nothing further had been received on this matter. Wilma was asked to write to Councillors Hannah, Low and O’Donnell asking if this matter could be pursued on behalf of the Group.
School Buses
Wilma intimated that she had received a reply from Linda Law, School Provision and Transport Manager for the Council confirming that although there would be no free school transport, the possibility of “putting on a bus service for the Wester Cleddens Road area” had been discussed in the past. At the time Strathclyde Passenger for Transport (SPT) had indicated that it would be dependent on the demand and usage and that currently no operator was in favour of putting on a service as they did not consider that it would be viable.
Linda concluded by saying that she had contacted SPT asking them to advise on the current position following our enquiry and will get back to the Group when SPT has responded.
Meeting Venue
Wilma confirmed that all of the undernoted future dates had been approved by the council. She also confirmed that the duration of the let had been increased to 9.00 pm and that this had also been approved. The cost for each let would be £7.40, payable at the end of the periods December 2007 and March and June 2008.
03.12.2007
14.01.2008
11.02.2008
17.03.2008
21.04.2008
19.05.2008
09.06.2008
Funds
Wilma intimated that the Group’s request for a grant from East Dunbartonshire Council was to be referred to the Housing Committee, following ratification by the Policy Resources Committee. No date had been set for this referral and it was unlikely that any monies would be forthcoming in the immediate future. Since monies would be required to pay for the school lets, for example, following a brief discussion it was agreed that a voluntary £5.00 returnable levy per member household would be requested. It was also agreed that this item should be revisited in the future.
It should be noted that at the moment the Group’s fund stand at £35.88 with a cheque for £10.56 yet to be presented. Various suggestions were offered as to how this figure could be augmented. After discussion, it was proposed and agreed that the Group would take part in the organised “Car Boot Sale” which takes place in Blochairn every Sunday. Donald agreed to approach Arnold Clark, asking that they supply the Group with a Luton van and the Group agreed to look out its “best quality” items from the attic/garage and elsewhere for inclusion in the sale.
Wimpey – Proposed Developments
This item was cover in Chair’s Report.
Packaging
Following a brief discussion regarding over-packaging at one of the local bakeries ie Greggs, Wilma was asked to write to the head office expressed the Group’s concerns about the amount of packaging and subsequent litter being dropped in the area. Wilma agreed to do so and report to the next meeting.
Scooter
Several members of the Group reported that a scooter, possible two scooters, was/were using the footpaths around Clair/Ochil Road and Thrums Avenue. This has been going on for some time and it was felt that inevitably there would be a collision involving this vehicle/vehicles either with a child, adult or animal. The registration plate of one of these vehicles has now been passed to the Community Police Officer. In the meantime Donald urged the members of the Group affected to contact Police Headquarters on 0141 207 5800 and report this. Only by doing so and building up a record of events, was it likely that action would be taken by the Police.
Graffiti
Wilma drew to the attention of the Group the unsightly graffiti which appeared on the wall of business premises at the top of Woodhill Road. After a brief discussion it was agreed that Wilma should write to Councillors Hannah, Low and O’Donnell asking that this be removed as soon as possible.
Next Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Monday 3 December at St Ninian’s High School.
There being no other business the meeting ended at 9.00 pm.
Woodhill Residents Group
Minutes of meeting
held at St Ninian’s High School
Monday 08 October 2007
PRESENT
(alphabetical order)
Betty Logan
Jim Logan
Donald Macdonald (Chairman)
Anne Mullin
Jackie Mullin (Vice Chairman)
Dominic Notarangelo
Tom Russell
Wilma Scott (Secretary)
Jack Scott
Michele Tyldesley
John Timoney (Community Support Officer)
APOLOGIES
(alphabetical order)
Angela Guthrie
Councillor Alex Hannah
Councillor Gordan Low
Robert Lowe
Rosaleen McDowall
Ian Tyldesley
Welcome
Donald opened the meeting by welcoming everyone to the new venue and in particular gave a warm welcome to Lesley Scott who had come along from Greenspace.
“Briggs in Bloom”
Since Lesley had come along specifically to discuss the “Briggs in Bloom” event, it was decided that this item should be taken first, thus allowing Lesley the opportunity leave at the conclusion of the discussion if she so wished.
Before handing over to Lesley, Donald referred to the recent “Clean up the World” event which had been attended by children and teachers from Woodhill Primary School. When “Briggs in Bloom” had been mentioned, both the children and teachers had expressed an interest in taking part. Indeed since then, Wester Cleddens School and Cleddens Park Nursery had also expressed a wish to be involved. It was, therefore, hoped that overall there would be a good response to the event although he did express “mild horror” at the prospect of the 5000 bulbs which had been ordered by Lesley.
Lesley began by assuring Donald and the Group that to plant this number of bulbs was not unachievable. She went on to say that she was happy to provide both advice and help to the Group, for example in providing equipment or possibly manpower for the planting. Following a request from Donald, Lesley agreed to photocopy leaflets to advertise the event. Indeed she was happy to supply a photograph of a daffodil which could be included in the leaflet. Donald readily accepted this and agreed to send through to Lesley the proposed leaflet as soon as this was compiled.
With regard to distribution, Dominic intimated that it might be possible to include the “Briggs in Bloom” leaflet with one relating to the Cleddens Park Residents Group which it was intended to circulate shortly. Donald agreed to liaise with Dominic on this.
Returning to the details for the event Lesley indicated that as far as schoolchildren were concerned it was imperative that permission be sought from the parents for the children to be involved, especially in the event that photographs were taken. It should be noted that the latter would not be necessary if teachers were present. She also suggested that children should be advised to wear suitable clothing and footwear – Wellington boots would probably be best. If possible gloves, possibly latex, should be provided for the children (and indeed for the adults) when handling the bulbs. Lesley also agreed to provide a certificate for each child taking part. She would liaise with the school on this matter, providing blank certificates on to which the names of each child could be added by the school themselves.
Lesley pointed out, however, that the display of daffodils the first year following planting can sometimes be rather disappointing and that this should be kept in mind.
The 64th Glasgow Company of the Girls Brigade had expressed an interest to Lesley in helping with this event. Lesley suggested that there were two ways in which this could be done. They could be asked to come to the event itself on the date decided or they could be given an area and sufficient bulbs and be allowed to do this on their own under the supervision of their leader, Liz Patrick. A brief discussion following at the conclusion of which it was agreed that the Group would be happy with either involvement and that Lesley should take this back to Ms Patrick for her consideration when the date for the main event was decided. Lesley agreed to do this on behalf of the Group.
Following discussion of a date for the event, and assuming that the schoolchildren might want to be involved during the school week, it was agreed that the week beginning Monday 18 November would be designated, concluding with the Group’s involvement on Sunday 25 November. Timing for the latter would be between the hours of 1.00 pm and 3.00 pm.
Various locations were suggested as suitable to plant the bulbs, but it was agreed that Wilma and Tom would meet with Lesley the following Friday when the suggested locations could be visited. The location(s) would be reported back to the next meeting of the Group.
Lesley intimated that there was equipment available which would cut the turf. A corner could then be lifted and the bulbs put into the ground and the turf replaced: this might be helpful for the schoolchildren and manpower could be made available depending on the date and time. “Corers” could also be used when a plug of sod is cut out, the bulb inserted and plug replaced and stamped down. This is the method suggested for the Sunday planting since manpower would not be available. The “corers” would be provided by Greenspace and returned at the end of the event.
Although ideally the Group would have liked to link into the Marie Curie “Big Build” appeal, this has not been possible. However, it was suggested that the hospice is asked for Collecting Cans which could be available on the various days.
Play areas
Michelle reported to the Group that she had made contact with Angela McDonald who had volunteered to help with the parks project. It is hoped to take advantage of Angela’s job experience in applying for grants.
Michelle went on to say that initially Ian and she would be focusing on establishing an identity for the Etive/Menteith Park, for example in providing signage. Ian was also investigating various options with regard to grants etc. At this point Lesley advised the Group that there were various types of funding available for example for lighting, play equipment etc. However, to apply for such funding it is necessary to demonstrate that there is a need and that the community is behind it. She went on to say that there may even be funds available from the Council possibly under the heading of “matched funding”. In conclusion she said that she was currently working with another group on a similar topic and suggested that she set up a meeting for Ian and Michelle with this group. Michelle accepted this suggestion.
Dairsie Crescent – Football
In response to Donald’s question regarding the above, Lesley was able to confirm that although the matter was being dealt with by Greenspace, it had not fallen within her remit. Wilma was able to confirm that the matter was now being handled personally by Councillor Gordan Low and that she was awaiting his reply which she should be able to provide at the next meeting of the Group.
Donald thanked Lesley for her attendance and valuable input prior to her leaving the meeting at 8.00 pm.
Minutes
Donald then returned to the agenda for the evening. Following his request acceptance of the minutes was proposed by Tom and seconded by Jack.
Chair’s Report
Donald intimated that he was no longer a member of the Academy Board.
Donald advised the Group had he had nothing further to report on the contact made by him with the Police Architectural Liaison Officer.
“Clean up the World”
Despite appalling weather, Donald was able to report that this event had been extremely successful and attended by around thirty. Several children from Woodhill Primary School had turned out and it was felt that this participation by the school was added to the good relationship which it was hoped to nurture between the school and the Group.
Travel Plan/Survey
Wilma reported that, as requested, she had written to the Chief Executive of East Dunbartonshire Council and to First Bus asking that they investigate the possibility of putting on school buses following the move of the Bishopbriggs Academy to its new location at Wester Cleddens Road. To date no replies had been received which may be due to the current problems being experienced within Royal Mail.
Bishopbriggs Academy
Donald confirmed that the steel work was now in place for the Academy. On a couple of occasions recently work had commenced earlier than laid down, thus breaking one of the many planning conditions. Donald had taken this up with the appropriate officer within the Council who had informed him that responsibility for ensuring that planning conditions are met lies with the developer. Further, he suggested that, as recommended by the Scottish Executive, residents should attempt to resolve issues with the developers by directly approaching the individual nominated by them (ie the developers) to deal with “neighbourhood” concerns. To this end, he supplied the name of the designated individual in this instance, namely Pat Muldownie.
Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme ( SUDS)
It seems now unlikely that the above will be included in the new Academy. If not, the question has to be asked as to what will be put in place for drainage, especially since there is a recognized history of flooding. Will tanks be the alternative? This remains to be answered.
Planning Hearings
Donald reported that a letter had been received from Alan Sim –Head of Planning at East Dunbartonshire Council in connection with the running of Planning Hearuings. After discussion it was suggested that only a completely independent person should chair such a planning meeting. It was suggested that an appropriate person might be an Enquiry Reporter, many of whom are retired directors of planning. However, he/she would have to stand aside if there were an appeal.
Donald agreed to reply in terms that the Group was seeking total impartiality and suggest that the chair of the planning committee does not chair controversial Planning Hearings.
Meeting Venue
The Group intimated their agreement to future meetings being held in St Ninian’s High School. However, Wilma intimated that due to “clashes” with other events in the school, it would not always be possible to have access on the second Monday of each month. After some discussion it was agreed that Wilma should go back to the Council with amended dates. If these are approved meetings for the remainder of 2007 going into 2008 would be as follows:-
12.11.2007
03.12.2007
14.01.2008
11.02.2008
17.03.2008
21.04.2008
19.05.2008
09.06.2008
However, although the lets had been granted at much reduced rates, there was still the problem of payment. Even if the Group receives a grant from the Council, monies from this cannot be used to pay for the hire of a meeting place. Following discussion, it was decided that a modest subscription should be asked from members of the Group and that this matter should be discussion further and a figure confirmed at the Annual General Meeting to be held in November.
Wimpey – Proposed Developments
Dominic referred to the developments proposed developments by Wimpey on three sites within the Woodhill area. These sites were
Although no objections were made by the Community Council when the matter was put before them, Dominic intimated that Cleddens Park Residents Group intended in placing an objection. After a brief discussion in which the lack of infrastructure, loss of green belt, etc were listed it was decided that an objection should also be submitted. Donald agreed to do this on behalf of the Group.
Next Meeting
Unfortunately due to lack of time it was not possible to cover all items on the agenda. However, it is hoped to remedy this at the next meeting ie the Annual General Meeting which will be held on Monday 12 November 2007 at St Ninian’s High School.
There being no other business the meeting ended at 8.45 pm.
Woodhill Residents Group
Minutes of meeting
held at 11 Kirriemuir Gardens
Monday 10 September 2007
PRESENT
(alphabetical order)
Angela Guthrie
Betty Logan
Jim Logan
Donald Macdonald (Chairman)
Rosaleen McDowall
Anne Mullin
Jackie Mullin (Vice Chairman)
Tom Russell
Wilma Scott (Secretary)
Jack Scott
John Timoney (Community Support Officer)
APOLOGIES
(alphabetical order)
Councillor Gordan Low
Robert Lowe
Mary MacKenzie
Councillor Michael O’Donnell
Ian Tyldesley
Michele Tyldesley