Councillors Bibby, B Brown, M Brown, Caldwell, Cameron, Clark, E Devine, M Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Gilmour, Glen, Provost Hall, Councillors Harte, Henry, Holmes, Hood, Kelly, Lawson, Mack, J MacLaren, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, M Macmillan, McCartin, McEwan, McGurk, I McMillan, McQuade, Mullin, Murrin, Mylet, Nicolson, Noon, Perrie, J Sharkey, M Sharkey and Williams.

S Black, Chief Executive; S MacDougall, Director of Community Resources; M Crearie, Director of Development & Housing Services; A Russell, Director of Finance & Resources; D Leese, Chief Officer (Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership); D Amos, Head of Policy & Commissioning and L McIntyre, Strategic Planning & Policy Development Manager (both Chief Executive’s); G McKinlay, Head of Schools (Children’s Services); F Carlin, Head of Planning & Housing Services (Development & Housing Services); and K Graham, Head of Corporate Governance, J Lynch, Head of Property Services, A MacArthur, Head of Finance, M Conaghan, Legal & Democratic Services Manager, L Belshaw, Democratic Services Manager and A McNaughton, Senior Committee Services Officer (all Finance & Resources).     

Councillor McGee.

Prior to the start of the meeting, Provost Hall referred, with sadness, to the recent deaths of Councillor Grady, Monsignor Canon William Diamond (a former member of the Education Policy Board) and Mr Gary Kelly (Commissionnaire, Renfrewshire House).  She paid tribute to each person highlighting the special contributions each had made in service to their communities and to Renfrewshire Council.  Provost Hall extended deepest sympathy and condolences to families and friends.

Provost Hall also referred, with sadness, to the untimely death of Ms J Cox MP, shot by a constituent and to the loss of life in a mass shooting that had targeted the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender community in Orlando, Florida.  Provost Hall offered sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who had lost their lives in such tragic circumstances.

On behalf of all members, individual tributes were also paid to Councillor Grady, Monsignor Canon William Diamond and Mr Gary Kelly by Councillors Lawson, Cameron, McCartin, Mack and McEwan.

A minute's silence was held as a mark of respect.

Councillors J Sharkey and M Sharkey declared a non-financial interest in item 26 of the agenda as they were, respectively, a member and supporter of KNOW (Kid’s Need Our Ward) and indicated that it was their intention to take part in the discussion and voting thereon.

Councillors M Devine, Harte and Nicolson declared a financial interest in item 16 of the agenda as they were members of Renfrewshire Leisure Limited and indicated that it was their intention to take part in the discussion as they had a general dispensation from the Standards Commission that allowed them to take part and to vote in relation to such matters.

Councillor Mullen declared a financial interest in item 26 of the agenda as he was an employee of NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board and indicated that it was his intention to leave the meeting and not to take part in the discussion and voting thereon.

Councillor M Macmillan declared a financial interest in item 26 of the agenda as he was a member of the NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board and indicated that it was his intention to leave the meeting and not to take part in the discussion and voting thereon.

Councillor Audrey Doig declared a financial interest in item 16 of the agenda as she was an employee of Renfrewshire Leisure Limited and indicated that it was her intention to leave the meeting and not to take part in the discussion and voting thereon.

Councillor Andy Doig declared a financial interest in item 16 of the agenda as he was the spouse of an employee of Renfrewshire Leisure Limited and indicated that it was his intention to leave the meeting and not to take part in the discussion and voting thereon.

Councillors Noon and Clark declared a non-financial interest in item 8 of the agenda as each had submitted an objection to the planning application and indicated that it was their intention to leave the meeting and not to take part in the discussion and voting thereon.

There were submitted the Minutes of the following meetings of the Council, Boards and Panels on the dates specified:

Council, 28 April 2016

Renfrew and Gallowhill Local Area Committee, 10 May 2016,

Regulatory Functions Board, 11 May 2016

Education and Children Policy Board, 12 May 2016

Paisley North Local Area Committee, 12 May 2016

Housing and Community Safety Policy Board, 17 May 2016

Local Review Body, 17 May 2016

Planning and Property Policy Board, 17 May 2016

Paisley South Local Area Committee, 17 May 2016

Environment Policy Board, 18 May 2016

Finance and Resources Policy Board, 18 May 2016

Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Appeals Panel, 19 May 2016

Johnstone and the Villages Local Area Committee, 19 May 2016

Audit, Scrutiny and Petitions Board, 23 May 2016

Economy and Jobs Policy Board, 25 May 2016

Houston, Crosslee, Linwood, Riverside and Erskine Local Area Committee, 25 May 2016

Regulatory Functions Board, 26 May 2016

Regulatory Functions Board, 2 June 2016

Audit, Scrutiny and Petitions Board, 6 June 2016

Leadership Board, 8 June 2016

Placing Requests and Exclusions Appeals Panel, 13 June 2016

Local Review Body, 14 June 2016

Regulatory Functions Board, 15 June 2016

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting adjourned at 9.50 am and reconvened at 10.00 am.

DECIDED:  That the Minutes be approved.

SEDERUNT

Councillors Audrey Doig and Andy Doig left the meeting during consideration of the following item and did not take part in the voting thereon.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Council’s Annual Accounts and Group Accounts for 2015/16, which were appended to the report and would be submitted for audit by the statutory deadline of 30 June 2016.  The report intimated that the Auditor was planning to complete the audit process by early September 2016 and their report on the accounts would be made available to all members and would be submitted to the meeting of the Audit, Scrutiny & Petitions Board on 19 September 2016 for consideration.

It was noted that the 2015/16 accounts fully complied with International Financial Reporting Standards and relevant accounting regulations and in order to comply with new charity accounting requirements, the Council’s Accounts did not incorporate statements relating to the Common Good Funds and Charitable Trust Funds and separate accounts had been prepared to accord with these requirements.  

Councillor Holmes, seconded by Councillor M Macmillan, moved (a) that the Annual Accounts for 2015/16 be approved, subject to Audit; (b) that it be noted that the Auditor was planning to complete the audit of the Accounts by early September 2016 and that their report would be made available to all members and would be submitted to the meeting of the Audit, Scrutiny and Petitions Board on 19 September 2016 for detailed consideration; (c) that the sums earmarked within the General Fund reserves and HRA reserves as outlined within the report and in note 11 of the Accounts, be approved; (d) that the transfer of resources to and from specific reserves as detailed below and in note 11 of the Accounts, be approved

(e) that the position outlined in section 6 with regard to Group Accounts be noted; (f) that, as in previous years, responsibility be delegated to the Director of Finance & Resources to submit Group Accounts on behalf of the Council to the appointed Auditor by 30 June 2016; and (g) that, subject to audit, the annual accounts attached for the Common Good Funds and Charitable Trusts which under accounting regulations required to be prepared and audited separately from the Council's accounts, be approved.

Councillor K MacLaren, seconded by Councillor Lawson, moved as an amendment that paragraph 2.3 of the report be replaced with "2.3  From the Council's underspend of £1.85 million in the General Fund allocate the necessary resources to Community Services to re-instate the full recycling and operational services for the Council Amenity Sites in Renfrew, Linwood, Johnstone and Erskine as well as providing the necessary resources to Renfrewshire Leisure Limited to re-instate the full services formerly provided at Ralston Sports Centre."

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, Mack, McGurk, Cameron, McCartin, Noon, M Brown, J MacLaren, McQuade and Nicolson.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, Harte and Mullen.

15 members having voted for the amendment and 21 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:

(a)  that the Annual Accounts for 2015/16 be approved, subject to Audit;

(b)  that it be noted that the Auditor was planning to complete the audit of the Accounts by early September 2016 and that their report would be made available to all members and would be submitted to the meeting of the Audit, Scrutiny and Petitions Board on 19 September 2016 for detailed consideration;

(c)  that the sums earmarked within the General Fund reserves and HRA reserves as outlined within the report and in note 11 of the Accounts, be approved;

(d)  that the transfer of resources to and from specific reserves as detailed below and in note 11 of the Accounts, be approved

(e)  that the position outlined in section 6 with regard to Group Accounts be noted; 

(f)  that, as in previous years, responsibility be delegated to the Director of Finance & Resources to submit Group Accounts on behalf of the Council to the appointed Auditor by 30 June 2016; and

(g)  that, subject to audit, the annual accounts attached for the Common Good Funds and Charitable Trusts which, under accounting regulations required to be prepared and audited separately from the Council's accounts, be approved.

SEDERUNT

Councillors Andy Doig and Audrey Doig returned to the meeting.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Treasury Management Annual Report for 2015/16 in accordance with Scottish Government Investment Regulations which came into force on 1 April 2010.

The report intimated that all aspects of the Treasury Policy Statement had been complied with in 2015/16. The report provided an overview of the 2015/16 Treasury activities, including the Treasury portfolio position as at 31 March 2016, reviews of borrowing and investment outturn, borrowing strategy and new borrowing, investment strategy and investment outturn, debt rescheduling, and compliance with Treasury limits.

DECIDED:   That the Treasury Management Annual Report for 2015/16 be approved.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Fifth Statutory Review of Electoral Arrangements by the Local Government Boundary Commission summarising the final proposals in the Review in so far as they related to Renfrewshire.

The report explained that the number of wards in Renfrewshire had been increased by one to twelve with the introduction of a new three-member ward in the South East of Paisley and  Appendix 1 to the report provided the names of the proposed wards, the number of councillors in each ward and the forecast electorate within each ward.  Appendix 2 to the report provided information on the impact of the proposals on each of the existing eleven wards and drew attention to the impact on existing Wards 3 and 5 of the creation of the new Paisley East and Central Ward.

The Commission's recommendations had been submitted to the Scottish Ministers for approval.  The Scottish Ministers had discretion to decide whether to adopt the recommendations as submitted to them or with modifications.  Further comments on the Commission's proposals could be made to the Scottish Ministers by 7 July 2016.

DECIDED:  That the report be agreed.

There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive as Returning Officer indicating that following the death of Councillor Grady, a member for Ward 2 (Renfrew South & Gallowhill), a by-election fell to be held within three months, in accordance with Section 37 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as amended.

The Chief Executive as Returning Officer had determined that a poll would be held on Thursday, 11 August 2016 with the hours of polling being from 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. on that day. 

The report detailed the by-election timetable, designated six polling districts and their respective polling places and highlighted that the Chief Executive had delegated powers to alter the arrangements for polling places during the period up to the date of the by-election in the event that one or more of the polling places could not be used for reasons outwith the Council’s control.

DECIDED:

(a)  That the date of the by-election poll, Thursday, 11 August 2016 be noted;

(b)  That the by-election timescale as set out within the report be noted; and

(c)  That it be noted that the Chief Executive had delegated powers to alter polling places if circumstances deemed it appropriate.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to a number of vacancies which had arisen in the membership of Council Boards and in Council appointments to external organisations as a result of the death of Councillor Grady and the suspension of Councillor Kelly from the Labour Group and inviting proposals from members to fill the vacancies.

Councillor M Macmillan, seconded by Councillor Holmes moved that the Council agrees the following appointments:

Audit, Scrutiny & Petitions:  Councillor M Devine and Councillor Bibby (replacing Councillor B Brown who comes off).

Environment:  Councillor Murrin

Finance & Resources:  Councillor B Brown. Councillor Bibby to be Depute Convener.

Housing & Community Safety:  Councillor Caldwell.

Leadership:  Councillor B Brown.

Planning & Property:  Councillor Caldwell.  Councillor Glen.  Councillor B Brown to be appointed Convener.  Councillor Gilmour to be Depute Convener.

Local Review Body:  Councillor B Brown to be Convener.

Investment Review Board:  Councillor Henry.  Councillor Bibby to be Depute Convener.

Procurement Sub-committee:  Councillor Bibby to be Depute Convener.

Renfrew & Gallowhill Local Area Committee:  Councillor M Devine to be Convener.

Outside Body:

Glasgow & Clyde Valley Strategic Development Planning Authority:  Councillor B Brown.

Lowland Reserve Forces' and Cadets Association:  Councillor Hood.

Nuclear Free Local Authorities:  Councillor Hood.

Nuclear Free Local Authorities (Scotland):  Councillor Hood (substitute).

Renfrewshire Access Panel:  Councillor Hood.

Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau:  Councillor Hood.

Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Integration Joint Board:  Councillor Glen (substitute).

Renfrewshire Valuation Joint Board:  Councillor Holmes (substitute).

Scottish Accident Prevention Council - Road Safety:  Councillor Caldwell.

Scottish Accident Prevention Council - Water:  Councillor Hood.

Scotland Excel:  Councillor Bibby (substitute).

Strathclyde Pension Fund Board:  Councillor Bibby (substitute).

The UK and Ireland Mayors, Provosts and Leaders for Peace Chapter:  Councillor Caldwell (substitute).

Councillor Mack, seconded by Councillor McCartin, moved as an amendment that Councillor McCartin be nominated for (a)  Glasgow & Clyde Valley Strategy Development Planning Authority; and (b) Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Integration Joint Board (substitute member).

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors Mack, McCartin and J MacLaren.

The following members voted for the motion: Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, Harte and Mullen.

The following members abstained:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McGurk, Cameron, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Noon, M Brown, McQuade and Nicolson.

3 members having voted for the amendment, 21 members having voted for the motion and 14 members having abstained, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  That the following appointments be approved:

(a)  Audit, Scrutiny & Petitions:  Councillor M Devine and Councillor Bibby (replacing Councillor B Brown who comes off);

(b)  Environment:  Councillor Murrin;

(c)  Finance & Resources:  Councillor B Brown. Councillor Bibby to be Depute Convener;

(d)  Housing & Community Safety:  Councillor Caldwell;

(e)  Leadership:  Councillor B Brown;

(f)  Planning & Property:  Councillor Caldwell.  Councillor Glen.  Councillor B Brown to be Convener and Councillor Gilmour to be Depute Convener;

(g)  Local Review Body:  Councillor B Brown to be Convener;

(h)  Investment Review Board:  Councillor Henry.  Councillor Bibby to be Depute Convener;

(i)  Procurement Sub-committee:  Councillor Bibby to be Depute Convener;

(j)  Renfrew & Gallowhill Local Area Committee:  Councillor M Devine to be Convener;

Outside Body:

(k)  Glasgow & Clyde Valley Strategic Development Planning Authority:  Councillor B Brown;

(l)  Lowland Reserve Forces' and Cadets Association:  Councillor Hood;

(m)  Nuclear Free Local Authorities:  Councillor Hood;

(n)  Nuclear Free Local Authorities (Scotland):  Councillor Hood (substitute);

(o)  Renfrewshire Access Panel:  Councillor Hood;

(p)  Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau:  Councillor Hood;

(q)  Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Integration Joint Board:  Councillor Glen (substitute);

(r)  Renfrewshire Valuation Joint Board:  Councillor Holmes (substitute);

(s)  Scottish Accident Prevention Council - Road Safety:  Councillor Caldwell;

(t)  Scottish Accident Prevention Council - Water:  Councillor Hood;

(u)  Scotland Excel:  Councillor Bibby (substitute);

(v)  Strathclyde Pension Fund Board:  Councillor Bibby (substitute); and

(w)  The UK and Ireland Mayors, Provosts and Leaders for Peace Chapter:  Councillor Caldwell (substitute).

There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to the Scottish Government's Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF) that formed one part of the financial support package provided by the Scottish Government to support the delivery of the "Achieving a Sustainable Future:  The Regeneration Strategy".  With an annual budget of £25 million, the fund supported regeneration projects across Scotland on a competitive basis.

The Council was submitting two applications relating to the Paisley Library relocation and Museum redevelopment projects but also wished to support two separate applications from Linstone Housing Association and Linwood Community Development Trust who had requested that the Council act as lead applicant for two complementary projects based in Linwood.  Both partners had agreed to enter into a formal partnership working agreement that would provide a framework for effective partnership working and provide the necessary project assurance required by the Council in its role as lead applicant.

The deadline for submission of RCGF applications was 20 June 2016 and applications had been submitted with clear indication that the two partner-based applications were subject to Council approval on 22 June 2016.

DECIDED:

(a)  That the submission of the two partner-based applications to the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund and for the Council to act as the lead applicant for these applications be approved; and

(b)  That it be agreed that this approval was subject to partnership agreements being signed by both partners thereby providing the necessary assurance to the Council that the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund conditions would be met by the partners.

The Head of Corporate Governance advised that members must deal with planning applications in an objective manner to ensure that they could not be challenged with accusations of bias or predetermination.  Votes on planning applications must be seen to be impartial and not influenced by party political issues.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillors Noon and Clark, having declared an interest in the following item, left the meeting and took no part in the discussion or voting thereon.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Development & Housing Services relative to planning application 16/0110/PP - Gladman Development Limited:  site between Sandholes Farm and 33 Sandholes Road, Brookfield for the erection of residential development including formation of vehicular access, open space landscaping and associated engineering works, that required to be determined by the Council.

DECIDED:  That the application be refused for the reasons that:

(a)  The proposal did not accord with the Spatial Development Strategy and related Spatial Frameworks of the approved Glasgow and the Clyde Valley Strategic Development Plan and Clydeplan's Strategic Development Plan Proposed Plan 2016 in terms of its location and development compatibility and therefore failed to support the Spatial Vision of the Plan;

(b)  The proposal was contrary to Policy ENV 1 of the Adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan in that it would result in development within the designated Green Belt without appropriate justification and due to its location and scale would not be commensurate with the aims of maintaining the identity of settlements and protecting and enhancing the landscape setting of an area;

(c)  The proposal was contrary to the Adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan New Development Supplementary Guidance - Delivering the Environmental Strategy as it did not require a specific green belt location and did not maintain or support an established activity which was suitable in the green belt.  The proposal would thereby introduce an inappropriate form of development into the Green Belt, result in an unacceptable erosion of the Green Belt and result in an adverse and detrimental impact on its character; and

(d)  The proposal was contrary to Policy P2 of the Adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan and the Housing Land Supply Supplementary Guidance 2015, and due to its scale and location, the proposed development would undermine the Spatial Strategy of the Adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan.  The proposal would thereby introduce an inappropriate form of development into the Green Belt, result in an unacceptable erosion of the Green Belt and result in an adverse and detrimental impact on its character.

SEDERUNT

Councillors Noon and Clark returned to the meeting.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Development & Housing Services relative to planning application 16/0147/PP - Wallace Land Investments: land to the north west of Kilbarchan Quarry, Branscroft, Kilbarchan, Johnstone for erection of residential development, formation or vehicular access, sustainable drainage solutions, landscaping and associated works that required to be determined by the Council.

DECIDED:  That the application be refused for the reasons that:

(a)  The proposal did not accord with the Spatial Development Strategy and related Spatial Frameworks of the approved Glasgow and the Clyde Valley Strategic Development Plan and Clydeplan's Strategic Development Plan Proposed Plan 2016 in terms of its location and development compatibility and therefore failed to support the Spatial Vision of the Plan;

(b)  The proposal was contrary to Policy ENV 1 of the Adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan in that it would result in development within the designated Green Belt without appropriate justification and due to its location and scale would not be commensurate with the aims of maintaining the identity of settlements and protecting and enhancing the landscape setting of an area;

(c)  The proposal was contrary to the Adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan New Development Supplementary Guidance - Delivering the Environmental Strategy as it did not require a specific green belt location and did not maintain or support an established activity which was suitable in the green belt.  The proposal would thereby introduce an inappropriate form of development into the Green Belt, result in an unacceptable erosion of the Green Belt and result in an adverse and detrimental impact on its character; and

(d)  The proposal was contrary to Policy P2 of the Adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan and the Housing Land Supply Supplementary Guidance 2015, and due to its scale and location, the proposed development would undermine the Spatial Strategy of the Adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan.  The proposal would thereby introduce an inappropriate form of development into the Green Belt, result in an unacceptable erosion of the Green Belt and result in an adverse and detrimental impact on its character.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillors Mullin and M Macmillan, having declared an interest in the following item, left the meeting and took no part in the discussion and voting thereon.

Councillors J Sharkey and M Sharkey, having declared an interest in the following item, remained in the meeting.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Nicolson and Andy Doig in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire has unique and valuable areas of architectural heritage that require more detailed guidance to protect this heritage for the future.  Council therefore agrees to "Develop and implement Supplementary Planning Guidance with regards to Renfrewshire's Conservation areas to augment the currently adopted LDP".

Councillor Nicolson, seconded by Councillor Andy Doig, then moved the motion.

Councillor B Brown, seconded by Councillor Gilmour, moved as an amendment that Renfrewshire Council is committed to managing and protecting its fantastic Built Heritage and, in line with Scottish Government Guidance it is proposed that Conservation Area Appraisals/Frameworks should be prepared as Non-Statutory Planning Guidance and considered by the Planning & Property Policy Board in due course.

In terms of Standing Order 27, the amendment was accepted by the mover and seconder of the motion and was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED:  That Renfrewshire Council was committed to managing and protecting its fantastic Built Heritage and, in line with Scottish Government Guidance, would prepare Conservation Area Appraisals/Framework as Non-Statutory Planning Guidance to be considered by the Planning & Property Policy Board in due course.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Nicolson and McGurk in the following terms:

"Significant failures in Community Resources including: lighting repairs, falling customer satisfaction in street cleaning, treatment of household waste, food waste collection, textile collection, drain cleaning, reducing food safety targets, bus shelter and road repairs leads this Council to view the current mismanagement by Renfrewshire's Labour administration with alarm.

Council therefore agrees: "That a cross party working group be composed that looks in detail at these service failures and the failure of the Convener and the Labour administration to take these issues seriously and to take appropriate action."

Councillor Nicolson, seconded by Councillor McGurk, then moved the motion.

Councillor Gilmour, seconded by Councillor E Devine, moved as an amendment that Renfrewshire Council notes with concern the systemic and systematic cuts to our budget from the Scottish Government.  Council notes the previous SNP-led council reduced staffing in environmental services by 178 posts, cut the anti-social behaviour/community safety strategy action fund by £84,886, increased trade waste charges, removed the youth crime worker post and programme initiative budget, cut the anti-social behaviour fund by £28,000, cut street cleaning and grounds maintenance by £100,000, cut the Community Action programme that supported community groups to improve local services by £207,000, removed funding for the Deliberate Fire Reduction taskforce by £20,323, cut the Young People's positive and active lifestyles programme by £173,813 - a cut of 43%, reduced the staffing in grounds maintenance and cut funding of the Clean Renfrewshire Campaign by £207,000.

Council considers that any drop in service levels is as a result of having fewer resources from the Scottish Government and a main opposition group that refuses to argue for a fair deal from the Scottish Government for Renfrewshire's residents.

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, Harte and Mullin.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, Mack, McGurk, Cameron, McCartin, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Noon, M Brown, J MacLaren, McQuade and Nicolson.

21 members having voted for the amendment and 17 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: That Renfrewshire Council notes with concern the systemic and systematic cuts to our budget from the Scottish Government.  Council notes the previous SNP-led council reduced staffing in environmental services by 178 posts, cut the anti-social behaviour/community safety strategy action fund by £84,886, increased trade waste charges, removed the youth crime worker post and programme initiative budget, cut the anti-social behaviour fund by £28,000, cut street cleaning and grounds maintenance by £100,000, cut the Community Action programme that supported community groups to improve local services by £207,000.

Council considers that any drop in service levels is as a result of having fewer resources from the Scottish Government and a main opposition group that refuses to argue for a fair deal from the Scottish Government for Renfrewshire residents.

SEDERUNT

Councillor Mack left the meeting during consideration of the following item.

There was submitted Notice of Motion by Councillors Nicolson and McGurk in the following terms:

"Private housing developers have stated publicly that as there is no Council policy on affordable housing contribution they had no requirement to consider it.  Council therefore agrees to "Develop and implement Supplementary Planning Guidance with regards to Affordable Housing which would required an affordable housing contribution from all new residential developments of 15 or more units to augment the currently adopted LDP."

Councillor Nicolson, seconded by Councillor McGurk, then moved the motion.

Councillor Williams, seconded by Councillor M Devine, moved as an amendment that the Council recommend that a policy commitment in relation to Affordable Housing should be brought forward through the review of the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan and approved by the Planning & Property Policy Board.

In terms of Standing Order 27, the mover and seconder of the motion consented to amend the motion to include the amendment as an addendum. Thereafter, the mover and seconder of the amendment consented to withdraw the amendment.

DECIDED: 

(a)  Private housing developers have stated publicly that as there is no Council policy on affordable housing contribution they had no requirement to consider it.  Council therefore agrees to develop and implement Supplementary Planning Guidance with regards to Affordable Housing which would required an affordable housing contribution from all new residential developments of 15 or more units to augment the currently adopted Local Development Plan; and

(b)  That a policy commitment in relation to Affordable Housing should be brought forward through the review of the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan and approved by the Planning & Property Policy Board.

There was submitted Notice of Motion by Councillors I McMillan and Bibby in the following terms:

"Council recognises and congratulates the following on their recent sporting success:-

1.  Johnstone Burgh u/21s on winning the Scottish Cup;

2.  Thorn Athlectic on winning the 1st Division play off of the Caledonian League and winning promotion to that league's Premier Division;

3.  The qualification of Derek and Callum Hawkins to represent team GB in the marathon at this year's Rio Olympics."

Councillor I McMillan, seconded by Councillor Bibby, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

There was also submitted Notice of Motion, by Councillors Audrey Doig and Andy Doig in the following terms:

"This Council congratulates Kilbarchan AAC members, Derek and Callum Hawkins, on being selected for the British team at the forthcoming Olympic Games in Rio this year.

Council further notes the positive impact of sport on the development of young people across Renfrewshire, and commends the Kilbarchan AAC for their historic contribution to local athletics".

Councillor Audrey Doig, seconded by Councillor Andy Doig then moved the motion which was also unanimously agreed.

DECIDED:

(a)  That the Council recognised and congratulated the following on their recent sporting success:

(i)  Johnstone Burgh u/21's on winning the Scottish Cup;

(ii)  Thorn Athletic on winning the 1st Division play off of the Caledonian League and winning promotion to that league's Premier Division;

(iii)  The qualification of Kilbarchan AAC members Derek and Callum Hawkins to represent team GB in the marathon at this year's Rio Olympics;

(b)  That the positive impact of sport on the development of young people across Renfrewshire be noted; and

(c)  That Kilbarchan AAC be commended for their historic contribution to local athletics.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Lawson and Mylet in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire Council is opposed to the transfer of Paisley Crown Post office to W H Smiths."

Councillor Lawson, seconded by Councillor Mylet then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED:  That Renfrewshire Council was opposed to the transfer of Paisley Crown post office to W H Smiths.

SEDERUNT

Councillor Mack returned to the meeting during consideration of the following item.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors K MacLaren and Noon in the following terms:

"LAC funding

Council notes the problems with the distribution of grants from the Local Area Committees and calls for a full evaluation of the grant making process.  This evaluation will include details on how many grants have been issued, how many different organisations have received funding, how many organisations regularly receive funding and look at options to both streamline the process but increase the scrutiny of the grant making process.  The evaluation will also provide information to prospective applicants on alternative funding sources."

Councillor K MacLaren, seconded by Councillor Noon, then moved the motion.

Councillor M Macmillan, seconded by Councillor Holmes, moved as an amendment that the Council notes that having set up Local Area Committees in 2008, the previous SNP-Lib Dem administration in Renfrewshire cut their budget by 25% in 2010.  Council further notes that in the face of unprecedented cuts from the Scottish Government this Labour Administration has protected the budgets for LACs.

Council considers the rich diversity of applicants and projects supported by the LACs reflect the vibrancy and energy of community groups and community activity across Renfrewshire.  Council resolves to continue to support and encourage this through LACs, through our Economic Development Section and through partnership work with Engage Renfrewshire.

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, Harte and Mullin.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, Mack, McGurk, Cameron, McCartin, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Noon, M Brown, J MacLaren, McQuade and Nicolson.

21 members having voted for the amendment and 17 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  That the Council notes that having set up Local Area Committees in 2008, the previous SNP-Lib Dem administration in Renfrewshire cut their budget by 25% in 2010.  Council further notes that in the face of unprecedented cuts from the Scottish Government this Labour Administration has protected the budgets for LACs.

Council considers the rich diversity of applicants and projects supported by the LACs reflect the vibrancy and energy of community groups and community activity across Renfrewshire.  Council resolves to continue to support and encourage this through LACs, through our Economic Development Section and through partnership work with Engage Renfrewshire.

SEDERUNT

Councillors Mylet and Mack left the meeting during consideration of Notice of Motion 7.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillors Andy Doig and Audrey Doig, having declared an interest in Notice of Motion 7, left the meeting and took no part in the discussion and voting thereon.

Councillors M Devine, Harte and Nicolson, having declared an interest in Notice of Motion 7, remained in the meeting.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Nicolson and Lawson in the following terms:

"Civic Amenities - Village Communities

This Council recognises the importance of civic amenities to our villages communities in particular, notes that the urban community halls and centres in Renfrewshire are receiving significant investment already, and therefore calls for immediate investment in the fabric of all community halls in the Renfrewshire villages to keep them viable and useable."

Councillor Nicolson, seconded by Councillor M Brown, then moved the motion.

Councillor Harte, seconded by Councillor M Devine, moved as an amendment that the Council notes the £3 million of investment that the Labour administration has made in order to improve community facilities in Renfrewshire and that work is ongoing to deliver upgrades to six community halls, including Cargill Hall in Bridge of Weir.

Council also notes that the remaining halls have been surveyed and a scope of work will be developed, should funding become available.

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors: B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, J MacLaren, Harte and Mullin.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McGurk, Cameron, McCartin, Noon, M Brown, McQuade and Nicolson.

2 members having voted for the amendment, and 12 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  That the Council noted the £3 million of investment that the Labour administration has made in order to improve community facilities in Renfrewshire and that work was ongoing to deliver upgrades to six community halls, including Cargill Hall in Bridge of Weir.

Council also noted that the remaining halls had been surveyed and a scope of work would be developed, should funding become available.

SEDERUNT

Councillors Mylet, Mack Andy Doig and Audrey Doig returned to the meeting.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Mylet and Audrey Doig in the following terms:

"Air Weapons

Council welcomes the introduction of The Air Weapons and Licensing Act (Scotland) 2015 and notes the initial success of the #SurrendAIR scheme which saw over 2,300 air weapons handed in to local police stations across Scotland.  Council notes if you own or use an air weapon in Scotland then from 1st July 2016 you can apply for a licence from Police Scotland and that from 31st December 2016 it will be an offence to own or use an air weapon without the proper certificate or permit."

Councillor Mylet, seconded by Councillor Audrey Doig, then moved the motion which was approved unanimously.

DECIDED:  That the Council welcomed the introduction of The Air Weapons and Licensing Act (Scotland) 2015 and noted the initial success of the #SurrendAIR scheme that saw over 2,300 air weapons handed in to local police stations across Scotland.  Council noted that if you owned or used an air weapon in Scotland then from 1 July 2016 you can apply for a license from Police Scotland and that from 31 December 2016 it would be an offence to own or use an air weapon without the proper certificate or permit.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Perrie and K MacLaren in the following terms:

"Special Constables

Council notes the concern of the Scottish Police Federation regarding the proposal for traineeship placements as Special Constables offered between Renfrewshire Council and Police Scotland.  Council will postpone any further action on these placements until a full report is presented to the next Housing & Community Safety Policy Board examining the concerns of the Scottish Police Federation, including the legal basis of these proposed traineeships."

Councillor Perrie, seconded by Councillor K MacLaren, then moved the motion.

Councillor M Macmillan, seconded by Councillor Holmes, moved as an amendment that the motion be not approved given that no further action was proposed in respect of this initiative.

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, McCartin, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, J MacLaren, Harte and Mullen.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, Mack, McGurk, Cameron, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Noon, M Brown, McQuade and Nicolson.

23 members having voted for the amendment and 15 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  That the motion be not approved given that no further action was proposed in respect of this initiative.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and M Brown that, in terms of Standing Order 19(c), Provost Hall considered incompetent and ruled out of order.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Lawson and Audrey Doig in the following terms:

"Council instructs the Chief Executive to report to all elected members, within the next 14 days, on the potential cost increases on the Riverbrae School Project."

Councillor Lawson, seconded by Councillor Audrey Doig, then moved the motion.

Councillor Holmes, seconded by Councillor Henry, moved as an amendment that the Council considers the building of a new school for pupils with additional support needs in Renfrewshire to be a positive development.  Council agrees that we should not compromise the state-of-the-art design of the school in order to meet deadlines or budget challenges.

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, Harte and Mullin.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councilors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, Mack, McGurk, Cameron, McCartin, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Noon, M Brown, J MacLaren, McQuade and Nicolson.

21 members having voted for the amendment and 17 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  That the Council considers the building of a new school for pupils with additional support needs in Renfrewshire to be a positive development.  Council agrees that we should not compromise the state-of-the-art design of the school in order to meet deadlines or budget challenges.

SEDERUNT

Councillor J MacLaren left the meeting during consideration of the following item.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McEwan and Lawson in the following terms:

"Capital Works - St Catherine's Primary School, Paisley

Council instructs the Director of Children's Services to bring a report to the Education and Children Policy Board in relation to the capital works still outstanding at St Catherine's Primary School, Paisley."

Councillor McEwan, seconded by Councillor Lawson, then moved the motion.

Councillor Henry, seconded by Councillor Clark, moved as an amendment that the Council recognises the enhancements made to learning at St Catherine's Primary School as a result of investment made by this Council since May 2012 and contrasts that favourably with the approach to education and actions of the previous SNP-led administration.

On the roll being called the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, Harte and Mullin.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, Mack, McGurk, Cameron, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Noon, M Brown, McQuade and Nicolson.

The following member abstained:  Councillor McCartin.

21 members having voted for the amendment, 15 members having voted for the motion and 1 member having abstained, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  That the Council recognises the enhancements made to learning at St Catherine's Primary School as a result of investment made by this Council since May 2012 and contrasts that favourably with the approach to education and actions of the previous SNP-led administration.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McCartin and Mack in the following terms:

"Weed Control

Council notes:

1  That earlier this year the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an arm of the World Health Organisation (WHO), classified Glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans";

2  That several countries including The Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden have banned or restricted the use of Glyphosate by local authorities and that some cities, including Chicago and Paris, have voluntarily made their public spaces Glyphosate-free;

3  That Glyphosate forms the basis of herbicides used by this council to control weed growth on the streets and in the parks and green spaces, and that thousands of litres of this herbicide are applied by the council each year;

4  That council officers are already investigating alternatives to the use of Glyphosate.

This Council believes that:

5  Where substantial evidence of the negative impact of chemicals on human health and the wider environment exists, the council should pursue the precautionary principle and should seek to utilise other weed control methods where evidence of such negative impacts does not exist;

The Council therefore agrees:

6  To continue to investigate alternatives to the use of Glyphosate for weed control and undertake at least two pilots to trial alternative weed control strategies, presenting a report to committee within nine months with options and costs of alternative weed control methods;

7  To phase out the use of Glyphosate by the Council as soon as an effective and cost-effective alternative weed control strategy has been identified.

Councillor McCartin, seconded by Councillor Mack, then moved the motion which was approved unanimously.

DECIDED:

(a)  That earlier this year the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an arm of the World Health Organisation (WHO), classified Glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans;

(b)  That several countries including The Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden have banned or restricted the use of Glyphosate by local authorities and that some cities, including Chicago and Paris, have voluntarily made their public spaces Glyphosate-free;

(c)  That Glyphosate forms the basis of herbicides used by this council to control weed growth on the streets and in the parks and green spaces, and that thousands of litres of this herbicide are applied by the council each year;

(d)  That council officers are already investigating alternatives to the use of Glyphosate.

This Council believes that:

(e )  Where substantial evidence of the negative impact of chemicals on human health and the wider environment exists, the council should pursue the precautionary principle and should seek to utilise other weed control methods where evidence of such negative impacts does not exist;

The Council therefore agrees:

(f)  To continue to investigate alternatives to the use of Glyphosate for weed control and undertake at least two pilots to trial alternative weed control strategies, presenting a report to committee within nine months with options and costs of alternative weed control methods;

(g)  To phase out the use of Glyphosate by the Council as soon as an effective and cost-effective alternative weed control strategy has been identified.

SEDERUNT

Councillors Andy Doig and Clark left the meeting during consideration of the following item and prior to the roll being called.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors E Devine and Gilmour in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire Council opposes fracking.  Renfrewshire Council advises any and all companies, other bodies or individuals interested in developing or undertaking fracking that Renfrewshire Council is opposed to this in the Renfrewshire Council area.  Council regrets the actions of SNP MSPs, particularly those who represent Renfrewshire, who abstained on a vote for an outright ban on fracking in Scotland."

Councillor E Devine, seconded by Councillor Gilmour, then moved the motion.

Councillor Nicolson, seconded by Councillor Andy Doig, moved as an amendment that Renfrewshire Council agrees that the current moratorium by the SNP Government is the correct position with regard to fracking as a means of energy extraction.  This provides a cautious, considered and evidenced-based approach to fracking for unconventional oil and gas extraction.  This will allow health and environmental impact tests to be carried out as well as a full public consultation to allow every interested organisation and any member of the public to input their views.  The Scottish Government has been clear that no fracking can or will take place in Scotland while the moratorium remains in place.

On the roll being called the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, Mack, McGurk, Cameron, Audrey Doig, Noon, M Brown, McQuade and Nicolson.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, M Macmillan, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, Harte and Mullin.

The following member abstained:  Councillor McCartin.

14 members having voted for the amendment, 20 members having voted for the motion and 1 member having abstained, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  That Renfrewshire Council opposes fracking.  Renfrewshire Council advises any and all companies, other bodies or individuals interested in developing or undertaking fracking that Renfrewshire Council is opposed to this in the Renfrewshire Council area.  Council regrets the actions of SNP MSPs, particularly those who represent Renfrewshire, who abstained on a vote for an outright ban on fracking in Scotland.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillor McCartin and Mack in the following terms:

"This Council notes the suffering forced upon local residents as a result of the Tory government's cuts programme and asserts that there is an alternative to its ideologically driven attack on public services - namely the levy of a financial transaction tax (FTT) on the speculative activities that have accelerated the recent enrichment of the few to the detriment of the many.

The Council therefore calls upon the Westminster Government to enact the FTT and use the revenues from this measure to reverse ongoing constant reduction in funding to all local authorities."

Councillor McCartin, seconded by Councillor Mack, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED:  That this Council notes the suffering forced upon local residents as a result of the Tory government's cuts programme and asserts that there is an alternative to its ideologically driven attack on public services - namely the levy of a financial transaction tax (FTT) on the speculative activities that have accelerated the recent enrichment of the few to the detriment of the many.

The Council therefore calls upon the Westminster Government to enact the FTT and use the revenues from this measure to reverse ongoing constant reduction in funding to all local authorities.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Holmes and E Devine in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire Council is opposed to any reduction in paediatric health or medical services at the Royal Alexandra Hospital.  Council instructs our representative on Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board to oppose any proposed reduction and to write to the Cabinet Secretary for Health urging in the strongest possible terms that she does not approve any reduction in local paediatric health or medical services.  Council will also write to our local MSPs requesting they write in similar terms to the Cabinet Secretary for Health and they make this correspondence publicly available."

Councillor J Sharkey, seconded by Councillor M Sharkey, then moved the motion.

Councillor Lawson, seconded by Councillor McEwan, moved as an amendment that Council restates its support for the retention of Ward 15 at the RAH.  Council agrees that clinical need should be the first priority in deciding the treatment options for children.  Council notes the record levels of financial support provided by the SNP Scottish Government to the Health Service.

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment:  Councillors Perrie, McEwan, Lawson, Mylet, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McGurk, Cameron, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Noon, M Brown, McQuade and Nicolson.

The following members voted for the motion:  Councillors B Brown, Murrin, M Devine, J Sharkey, M Sharkey, Kelly, Williams, E Devine, Glen, Henry, McCartin, Caldwell, Hood, I McMillan, Bibby, Gilmour, Clark, Provost Hall, Councillors Holmes, J MacLaren and Harte.

The following member abstained:  Councillor Mack.

14 members having voted for the amendment, 21 members having voted for the motion and 1 member having abstained, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  That Renfrewshire Council is opposed to any reduction in paediatric health or medical services at the Royal Alexandra Hospital.  Council instructs our representative on Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board to oppose any proposed reduction and to write to the Cabinet Secretary for Health urging in the strongest possible terms that she does not approve any reduction in local paediatric health or medical services.  Council will also write to our local MSPs requesting they write in similar terms to the Cabinet Secretary for Health and they make this correspondence publicly available.

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting adjourned at 11.00 am and reconvened at 11.15 am.

SEDERUNT

Councillors Mullin and M Macmillan returned to the meeting.