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Meeting Details

Meeting Summary
Communities, Housing & Planning Policy Board
20 Aug 2019 - 13:00 to 15:00
Occurred
Council Chambers (Renfrewshire)
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  • Documents
  • Attendance
  • Visitors
  • Declarations of Interests

Documents

Agenda

Agenda
Standard Items
Members Development
All elected members are invited to attend a development session on how vulnerable adults are protected and supported in Renfrewshire, which is being held in the Council Chambers at 12 noon on 20 August, 2019.
Further Information

This is a meeting which is open to members of the public. 

A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx

For further information, please either email
democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk or telephone 0141 618 7112.

Members of the Press and Public
Members of the press and public wishing to attend the meeting should report to the customer service centre where they will be met and directed to the meeting.
Chair
Councillor McGurk, Convener, presided.
In Attendance

M Crearie, Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services; L McIntyre, Head of Policy and Commissioning and A Armstrong-Walter, Strategic Partnerships & Inequalities Manager (both Chief Executive’s); J Trainer, Head of Child Care & Criminal Justice (Children’s Services); F Carlin, Head of Planning & Housing Services, O Reid, Head of Communities & Public Protection, C Dalrymple, Communities & Regulatory Manager, T Irvine, Homeless & Housing Support Services, S Marklow, Strategy & Place Manager and L Muirhead, Planning & Housing Manager (all Communities, Housing & Planning Services); and A McLaughlin, Senior Solicitor Litigation & Regulatory Services, R Devine, Senior Committee Services Officer and N O’Brien, Assistant Committee Services Officer (all Finance & Resources). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Declaration of Interest
Councillor Mags MacLaren having previously declared an interest in relation to the following item of business remained in the meeting but took no part in the any discussion on the matter. 
Declaration of Interest
Councillor Rodden having previously declared an interest in relation to the following item of business remained in the meeting but took no part in the any discussion on the matter. 
Section 1 Heading
Section 1
Apologies
Apologies from members.
Declarations of Interest
Members are asked to declare an interest in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest.

Councillor Mags MacLaren declared a non-financial interest in item 5 as she was a member of the Boards of Linstone Housing Association and Willimsburgh Housing Association and indicated her intention to remain in the meeting during consideration of the matter but not take part in any discussion or voting thereon. 

Councillor Rodden declared a non-financial interest in item 8 as she was an employee of Turning Point Scotland and indicated her intention to remain in the meeting during consideration of the matter but not take part in any discussion or voting thereon. 

Councillor James MacLaren declared a non-financial interest in item 22(a) as he had previously expressed a view in relation to the planning application and indicated that he would leave the meeting during consideration of this item and not take part in any discussion or voting thereon.

1 Minute of Meeting of Police, Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub-Committee
Minute of meeting of Police, Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub-Committee held on 21 May 2019.
  1. pdf PF&RMinute (76Kb)
1
There was submitted the Minute of the meeting of the Police and Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub-committee held on 21 May 2019, which forms the Appendix to this Minute. 

DECIDED: That the Minute be approved.
Section 2 Heading
FINANCE
Section 2
2 Revenue Budget Monitoring Report
Joint report by Director of Finance & Resources, Director of Children's Services and Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
2
There was submitted a joint revenue budget monitoring report by the Directors of Finance & Resources, Communities, Housing & Planning Services and Children’s Services for the period 1 April to 21 June 2019. 

DECIDED: That the budget position be noted.
3 Capital Budget Monitoring Report
Joint report by Directors of Finance & Resources and Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
3
There was submitted a joint capital budget monitoring report by the Directors of Finance & Resources and Communities, Housing & Planning Services for the period 1 April to 21 June 2019. 

DECIDED: That the report be noted.
4 Community Empowerment Fund
Report by Chief Executive.
4
There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to the award of grants from the Community Empowerment Fund. 

The report outlined the key objectives and aims of the Community Empowerment Fund. The Appendix to the report provided details of two new applications received for funding and five applications, consideration of which had previously been continued by the Board.  Recommendations in respect of the determination of each application were detailed within the report. It was highlighted that the deadline for the submission of applications for the next round of funding was 3 September 2019. 

DECIDED:  That the recommendations made in relation to the applications received and detailed in Section 4 of the report and the Appendix, be approved.
Section 3 Heading
HOUSING
Section 3
5 Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2020/2025
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
5
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2020/25. 

The report indicated that the Strategic Housing Investment Plan(SHIP), which detailed how funding for affordable housing would be targeted to achieve the objectives contained within Renfrewshire’s Local Housing Strategy, was reviewed and updated annually. A draft SHIP for the five-year period 2020/25, including a roll-forward of projects from the previous SHIP, taking account of projects which were expected to complete during 2019/20 alongside estimates of when new projects could potentially be brought forward, had been developed for consultation, following discussion with local housing associations in Renfrewshire.  A copy of the draft Plan was appended to the report.  Following consultation, which would be undertaken during August and September 2019, the proposed finalised Plan would be submitted to the next meeting of this Policy Board for consideration and, if appropriate approval, prior to submission to the Scottish Government. 

DECIDED: That the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services be authorised to undertake consultation on the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2020/25, appended to the report, and submit the finalised plan to the next meeting of this Policy Board for approval.

 
6 Scottish Social Housing Charter - Annual Return 2018/19
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
6
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the Scottish Social Housing Charter Annual Return 2018/19. 

The report intimated that Local Authorities and Registered Social Landlords were required to submit an Annual Return relating to their performance to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) by the end of May each year. A copy of the Annual Return 2018/19 made on behalf of the Council was appended to the report and detailed Renfrewshire’s performance in terms of specific indicators. A summary of performance achieved against the Charter indicators, together with comparative information for the previous six-year period, core contextual data submitted as part of the return and additional service and performance management information was incorporated. The report highlighted that the SHR published all social landlords’ performance on its website and, in common with other social landlords, the Council was required to report its performance against the Charter to all tenants.  In accordance with guidance issued by the SHR tenants would be consulted on the preferred format for the tenants report and it was also highlighted that following a review of the Regulatory Framework the six-monthly update to the next meeting of this Policy Board would incorporate a new suite of indicators.

It was proposed that the analysis of the reasons for the increased tenancy offer refusal rate in 2018/19 (indicator 18) and the reasons for the increased timescale for completing approved adaptations (indicator 23) be shared with members of the Policy Board.  

DECIDED: That the Scottish Social Housing Charter performance information submission for 2018/19, as appended to the report, be noted and arrangements be made to share with members of the Policy Board the analysis of the reasons for the increased tenancy offer refusal rate in 2018/19 (indicator 18) and the reasons for the increased timescale for completing approved adaptations (indicator 23).
7 Housing Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2019/20 Award of Funding
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
7

Under reference to item 9 of the Minute of the meeting of this Policy Board held on 12 March 2019 there was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the Housing Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes and the allocation of £1,455,530 for the Renfrewshire Council area in terms of the Scottish Government’s Home Energy Efficiency Programme for Scotland (HEEPS:ABS) 2019/20.  

The key objectives of the Programme were detailed within the report, together with the potential benefits and it was highlighted that local authorities acted as co-ordinating agents for all HEEPS:ABS programmes within their area. Confirmation had been received, on 28 March 2019, by the Council that Renfrewshire’s proposed allocation of the £49 million available nationally was £1,455,530.  It was noted that schemes for consideration for this funding from this allocation had required to be submitted by 26 April 2019 and that consequently the proposed projects, which were detailed within the report, and focussed on mixed tenure blocks of solid wall construction type to support social landlords in meeting the requirements of the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing, had been submitted on behalf of the Council.  Notification had been received, on 7 June 2019, of the outcome of the application which had confirmed the award of £1,455,530 for HEEPS:ABS projects in 2019/20.  

 

DECIDED: 

(a) That the action taken by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services in accepting grant funding of £1,455,530, awarded as part of the Scottish Government’s HEEPS:ABS programme for qualifying projects within the Renfrewshire Council area, be homologated; and 

(b) That the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services be authorised to oversee delivery and operational management of the programme.

8 Rapid Re-housing Transition Plan for Renfrewshire - Update

Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.

 

 

8
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the production of a Rapid Re-housing Transition Plan (RRTP) for Renfrewshire. 

The Scottish Government established a Homelessness & Rough-sleeping Action Group (HARSAG) during October 2017 to produce solutions to help address issues raised by homelessness and rough-sleeping. A key recommendation from the HARSAG, which was accepted by the Scottish Government, was that all local authorities required to consult on and produce a five-year Rapid Re-housing Transition Plan covering the period 2019/24.  The Scottish Government had subsequently issued guidance to all local authorities during July 2018 on the production of Rapid Re-housing Transition Plans (RRTP), which were to be developed as a means of demonstrating how each local authority and its partners would ensure that those who were homeless were provided with a settled housing option as quickly as possible, and minimised the need to stay in temporary accommodation.  Key partners including local and national Housing Associations, Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership and a range of third sector organisations were fully consulted on the content of a draft RRTP for Renfrewshire which detailed how the local authority would move to a situation where those who were homeless were provided with accommodation more quickly, spent less time in temporary accommodation, had greater access to an up-scaled use of the Housing First model, and/or other support.  A copy of the RRTP for Renfrewshire, which outlined the proposals to be implemented between 2019/24 subject to RRTP funding, was appended to the report.
 
It had originally been proposed that resources would be allocated from the Scottish Government’s ‘Ending Homelessness Together’ fund to support and assist local authorities in the implementation of their RRTP’s, once they had been fully evaluated.  Currently the Scottish Government were reviewing submissions made by local authorities, and it had been agreed with COSLA meantime that funding would be allocated, for 2019/20 only, using a formula-based distribution model, based on a three-year average of homelessness assessments, rather than on full evaluations of the RRTP’s.  Renfrewshire had been awarded £186,000 for the implementation of rapid rehousing related initiatives during 2019/20.  This funding would be used locally to increase the number of homeless applicants supported via the ‘wraparound’ support, which was a key element of the Housing First approach, as well as additional resettlement assistance for those moving from temporary accommodation in order to address the problems that often arose when settled tenancies commenced. These were priority areas identified during the compilation of the RRTP for Renfrewshire.

It was highlighted that implementation of the funding for 2019/20 and progress achieved in relation to the RRTP for Renfrewshire 2019/24 would be reported to future meetings of this Policy Board. 

In response to a request it was agreed that a presentation be made at the next meeting of this Policy Board in connection with the specialist services, referred to within the report, available to achieve the best possible outcomes for veterans.  

DECIDED:

(a) That the Director of Communities Housing & Planning Services be authorised to manage the implementation of a Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan for Renfrewshire, utilising the allocation of £186,000 of funding received from the Scottish Government for year 1;  

(b) That a presentation be submitted to the next meeting of this Policy Board providing further information in connection with the specialist services referred to within the report, available to achieve the best possible outcomes for veterans; and 

(c) That otherwise progress be reported to this Policy Board.
9 Acquisition of Private Housing
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
9
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the proposed adoption of an Acquisition Scheme for Private Housing.

The report referred to the decision taken at the meeting of the former Housing and Community Safety Policy Board held on 13 May 2014 to dispose of Council properties which became void, at no less than market value, where the property was the last one owned by the Council in a block of five or more flats.  In approving this initiative, it was agreed that income generated from these sales should be used to acquire properties which could in turn be made available for rent as part of the Council’s Housing Stock.  It was highlighted that 39 properties had been sold since approval of the Policy .  Members were reminded that at the meeting of the Council held on 28 February 2019 it had been agreed that proposals would be developed to reinvest these funds to supplement the overall housing stock.

The report outlined proposals for implementing a scheme for the acquisition of private housing which would utilise the funding generated to date along with additional funding which might become available in the future.  The Acquisition Scheme would target the purchase of properties which would meet identified needs and increase the supply of good quality Council housing in areas where there was need and recognised demand.  Under the proposed scheme, properties would only be considered for purchase where they were advertised for sale on the open market.  Full details of the criteria to be used to identify properties which the Council might seek to acquire were detailed within the report.

Arrangements would be made to consider funding provision for the Acquisitions Scheme in future years as part of the annual review of the Housing Revenue Account Capital Investment Programme submitted to the Council for consideration.

DECIDED:

(a) That the Acquisition Scheme, as detailed in section 4 of the report, be approved;

(b) That the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services be authorised to oversee the management of the scheme; and

(c) That it be agreed that the acquisition of properties would be undertaken in consultation with the Head of Property Services and Head of Corporate Governance and in full accordance with the approved Council Scheme of Delegation and Financial Regulations.
10 Disposal of land adjacent to 70 Montgomery Road, Paisley
Report by Director of Finance & Resources.
10

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the proposed declaration of an area of land located adjacent to 70 Montgomery Road, Paisley, identified on a plan appended to the report, as surplus to the Council’s requirements. 

The area of land involved, which was held on the Housing Revenue Account, comprised a total area of 115 square metres and was an area of open space, maintained by Environment & Infrastructure. An offer to purchase the land for use as a private garden and car parking space, had been received from the owner of the property at 70 Montgomery Road, Paisley. Provisional agreement had been reached in terms of a purchase price subject to the ground being declared surplus to the Council’s requirements. The area of land concerned was such that the purchase price/value of the land would be at a level upon which delegated powers granted to the Head of Property Services for the disposal of surplus property would be utilised. The Head of Planning & Housing Services had confirmed that the area of land involved had no operational requirement. It was highlighted that the proposed purchaser would require to obtain the necessary planning consents for the change of use from open space. 

DECIDED:


(a) That the area of land located adjacent to 70 Montgomery Road, Paisley, identified on the plan attached to the report, be declared surplus to the Council’s requirements, with a view to disposing to the adjacent owner; 

(b) That the sale, to the adjoining proprietor of 70 Montgomery Road, Paisley, of the land referred to above on such terms and conditions as may be negotiated by the Head of Property utilising delegated powers be authorised; 

(c) That the Head of Corporate Governance be authorised to conclude the sale incorporating into the bargain such terms and conditions as may be deemed necessary to protect the Council’s interest; and

(d) That it be noted that the Head of Housing & Planning Services would advertise the proposed sale of the area of open space in the local press in terms of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1959.

11 Disposal of land adjacent to 5m North Road, Johnstone
Report by Director of Finance & Resources.
11

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the proposed declaration of an area of land located adjacent to 5m North Road, Johnstone, identified on a plan appended to the report, as surplus to the Council’s requirements. 

The area of land involved, which was held on the Housing Revenue Account, comprised a total area of 127 square metres and was an area of open space, maintained by Environment & Infrastructure. An offer to purchase the land for use as a private garden and car parking space, had been received from the owner of the property at 5m North Road, Johnstone. Provisional agreement had been reached in terms of a purchase price subject to the ground being declared surplus to the Council’s requirements. The area of land concerned was such that the purchase price/value of the land would be at a level upon which delegated powers granted to the Head of Property Services for the disposal of surplus property would be utilised. The Head of Planning & Housing Services had confirmed that the area of land involved had no operational requirement. It was highlighted that the proposed purchaser would require to obtain the necessary planning consents for the change of use from open space and that Environment & Infrastructure had advised that should the applicant wish to fence the outer boundaries of the space all fence heights required to be at a maximum height of one metre from the ground to preserve sightlines for the junction at North Road, Johnstone. 

DECIDED:

(a) That the area of land located adjacent to 5m North Road, Johnstone, identified on the plan attached to the report, be declared surplus to the Council’s requirements, with a view to disposing to the adjacent owner; 

(b) That the sale, to the adjoining proprietor of 5m North Road, Johnstone, of the land referred to above on such terms and conditions as may be negotiated by the Head of Property utilising delegated powers be authorised; 

(c) That the Head of Corporate Governance be authorised to conclude the sale incorporating into the bargain such terms and conditions as may be deemed necessary to protect the Council’s interest; and

(d) That it be noted that the Head of Housing & Planning Services would advertise the proposed sale of the area of open space in the local press in terms of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1959.

 

 

 

 

 

12 Disposal of land adjacent to 4 Elm Drive, Johnstone
Report by Director of Finance & Resources.
12
There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the proposed declaration of an area of land located adjacent to 4 Elm Drive, Johnstone, identified on a plan appended to the report, as surplus to the Council’s requirements. 

The area of land involved, which was held on the Housing Revenue Account, comprised a total area of 72 square metres and was an area of open space, maintained by Environment & Infrastructure. An offer to purchase the land for use as a private garden and car parking space, had been received from the owner of the property at 4 Elm Drive, Johnstone. Provisional agreement had been reached in terms of a purchase price subject to the ground being declared surplus to the Council’s requirements. The area of land concerned was such that the purchase price/value of the land would be at a level upon which delegated powers granted to the Head of Property Services for the disposal of surplus property would be utilised. The Head of Planning & Housing Services had confirmed that the area of land involved had no operational requirement. It was highlighted that the proposed purchaser would require to obtain the necessary planning consents for the change of use from open space. 

DECIDED:

(a) That the area of land located adjacent to 4 Elm Drive, Johnstone, identified on the plan attached to the report, be declared surplus to the Council’s requirements, with a view to disposing to the adjacent owner; 

(b) That the sale, to the adjoining proprietor of 4 Elm Drive, Johnstone, of the land referred to above on such terms and conditions as may be negotiated by the Head of Property utilising delegated powers be authorised; 

(c) That the Head of Corporate Governance be authorised to conclude the sale incorporating into the bargain such terms and conditions as may be deemed necessary to protect the Council’s interest; and

(d) That it be noted that the Head of Housing & Planning Services would advertise the proposed sale of the area of open space in the local press in terms of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1959.
13 Allocation of Houses in terms of Housing Rules 10.7 and 2.5

Intimation by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services in terms of Housing Rules 10.7 and 2.5 of the Housing Allocations Policy which require all housing allocations which involve either (i) Council members or their immediate families or (ii) members of staff of the Housing Division or their immediate families to be notified to the relevant Policy Board.

(a)

Address - 28 Fereneze Drive, Paisley

Size - 3 bedroom

Allocated to - member of Councillor's family

 

(b)

Address - 3 Reid Avenue, Linwood
Size - 2 bedroom
Allocated to - member of staff

13
There was submitted intimation by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services in terms of Housing Rules 10.7 and 2.5 which required all housing allocations which involved either (i) Council members or their immediate families or (ii) members of staff of the Housing Division or their immediate families to be notified to the relevant Policy Board. 

(a) Address: 28 Fereneze Drive, Paisley 
Size: Three bedroom 
Allocated to: Member of Councillor’s family 

(b) Address: 3 Reid Avenue, Linwood 
Size: Two bedroom 
Allocated to: Member of staff 

DECIDED: That the intimations be noted.
Section 4 Heading
COMMUNITY JUSTICE
Section 4
14 Community Justice Renfrewshire Annual Report 2018/19
Report by Director of Children's Services.
14
There was submitted a report by the Director of Children’s Services relative to the Community Justice Renfrewshire Annual Report 2018/19.  A copy of the Annual Report 2018/19 Reporting template was appended to the report. 

The report advised that the Renfrewshire Community Justice Outcomes Improvement Plan 2018/21, published on 1 April 2018, had outlined how the Community Justice Renfrewshire Partnership would reduce re-offending locally. The document also highlighted key local priorities, which had been identified through needs assessment and interaction with stakeholders and national priorities. The Community Justice Renfrewshire Annual Report, covering the period 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019, required to be published by 30 September 2019 and thereafter submitted to Community Justice Scotland. A revised template for the annual report had been produced by Community Justice Scotland to assist local partnerships to capture a range of data in a way that allowed local partners to highlight key aspects of community justice activities, outcomes and improvements over the specified period without it being onerous or time/resource demanding.

DECIDED: 

(a) That the content of the Community Justice Renfrewshire Annual Report Reporting Template 2018/19, which was appended to the report, be approved; and 

(b) That it be noted that the Community Justice Renfrewshire Annual Report 2018/19 required to be published by 30 September 2019.
Section 5 Heading
COMMUNITY SAFETY & PROTECTION AND CONSULTATIONS
Section 5
15 Your Home, Your Street, Our Community

Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.

 

 

 

 

 

 

15
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the Your Home, Your Street, Our Community initiative undertaken in the Shortroods area of Paisley.

The report advised that the Building Safer & Greener Communities multi-agency tasking group had been co-ordinating and delivering local initiatives in identified communities since 2016.  These initiatives have focussed on delivering the National Building Safer Communities outcomes, in particular, the reduction in the number of victims of crime. National and local groups had also been established with the aim of reducing unintentional physical and psychological harm that could have been predicted or prevented.

The National Building Safer & Greener Communities agenda had been renamed ‘Your Home, Your Street, Our Community’ with the aim of creating a more community focussed brand to encourage engagement, support, empowerment and a better level of understanding.  

The report detailed some of the high-level outcomes delivered within the Shortroods area of Paisley as part of the initiative over the previous year and demonstrated how the programme continued to evolve.

DECIDED: That the report and work undertaken as part of the Building Safer & Greener Communities working group since May 2018 be noted.
16 Consultations
(a) The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property)(Scotland) Regulations 2019: Housing - Draft Regulations and Guidance

Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.

16(a)
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the consultation exercise, being undertaken by the Scottish Government, on Energy Efficiency and Condition Standards in Private Rented Housing and associated draft regulations and guidance. 

The report stated that the aim of the consultation was to raise awareness within the sector and obtain views in relation to draft Regulations and associated Guidance developed to facilitate improved energy efficiency within privately rented accommodation.  The deadline for submissions to the consultation was 13 September 2019.

A copy of the draft response, prepared on behalf of the Council, was appended to the report for consideration.  In summary the response expressed support for the Regulations and the aim of improving energy efficiency within the private rented housing sector.  The potential significant resource implications for local authorities in enforcing the Regulations and the proposed exemptions was also acknowledged.

DECIDED: 

(a) That the Scottish Government consultation on Energy Efficiency and Condition Standards in Private Rented Housing and the requirement to submit responses by 13 September 2019 be noted; and 

(b) That the response appended to the report be approved for submission to the Scottish Government. 
(b) Response to Online Harms White Paper
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
16(b)
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the consultation exercise, being undertaken by the UK Government in connection with the Online Harms White Paper, which detailed plans for a package of online safety measures that would also support innovation and a thriving digital economy. 

The report stated that the White Paper proposed the establishment, in law, of a new duty of care towards users, which would be overseen by an independent regulator.  The consultation sought views on various aspects of the government’s plans for regulation and tackling online harms. The deadline for submissions to the consultation had been 1 July 2019.  A copy of the response prepared and submitted, prior to the deadline on behalf of the Council, was appended to the report.

The response welcomed the opportunity to respond to the white paper and was supportive of the approach and proposals that were outlined to strengthen the process for reducing on-line harm to vulnerable people. In particular, the response acknowledged the challenges involved in taking forward the agenda and was in favour of increased regulation in relation to the expectations and responsibilities placed on companies operating online services and to the creation of a proportionate and supportive enforcement approach that would enable the digital economy to develop while protecting vulnerable service users.

DECIDED:

(a) That the consultation on the UK Government Online Harms White Paper be noted; and 

(b) That the consultation response submitted on behalf of the Council, a copy of which was appended to the report, be homologated.
(c) Section 38 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015 - Duty to notify and provide information about victims
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
16(c)
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the consultation exercise, being undertaken by the Scottish Government in connection with Section 38 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015 and the associated duty to notify and provide information about victims.   

The report intimated that the legislation specified that Scottish public authorities were required to provide information to Police Scotland about a person(s) who was, or appeared to be, a victim of human trafficking or of slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour.  The consultation sought views on the nature of information and information sharing that would assist in improving the understanding of the issue.

The deadline for submissions to the consultation was 6 September 2019.  A copy of the draft response, prepared on behalf of the Council, was appended to the report.
The draft response was broadly supportive of the proposals being made by the Scottish Government on how the duty to notify and provide information about victims would operate and the potential to help tackle the illegal trade of human beings, both adult and children, for exploitation. 

DECIDED:

(a) That the consultation by the Scottish Government on section 38 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015 be noted; and 

(b) That the response appended to the report be approved for submission to the Scottish Government. 
 
(d) Influenza Pandemic Preparedness: Guidance for Health and Social Care Services in Scotland
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
16(d)
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the consultation exercise, being undertaken by the Scottish Government entitled Influenza Pandemic Preparedness: Guidance for Health and Social Care Services in Scotland. 

The report advised that the consultation had been launched on 19 July 2019 and focussed on the guidance and preparedness of Councils and Health & Social Care Partnerships and outlined the legislative background requirements for stakeholders.  The deadline for submissions was 13 September 2019, which was prior to the next meeting of this Policy Board, and delegated authority was sought to enable the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services to prepare and submit a response on behalf of the Council, following discussion and input from relevant Council services and the Convener of this Policy Board; and to submit a copy of the response to the next meeting of this Policy Board for members information.

DECIDED: 

(a) That the consultation by the Scottish Government on Influenza Pandemic Preparedness: Guidance for Health and Social Care Services in Scotland be noted;  

(b) That the Director of Communities, Housing and Planning Services be authorised to submit a response to the Scottish Government (Health Resilience Unit) by 13 September 2019 following discussion and input from relevant Services and the Convener of this Policy Board; and

(c) That a copy of the response be submitted to the next meeting of this Policy Board.
Section 6 Heading
DEVELOPMENT PLANNING
Section 6
17 Planning (Scotland) Bill - Update
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
17
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the Planning (Scotland) Bill which was passed by the Scottish Parliament on 20 June 2019.

During September 2015, the Scottish Ministers had appointed a panel to undertake an independent review of the Scottish Planning System. The Panel had reported in May 2016 and it’s findings contained 48 recommendations. The Scottish Government’s response was issued during July 2016 and a further consultation document on the future of the Planning System in Scotland, entitled ‘Places, People and Planning was issued by the Scottish Government. Taking into account the wide range of views expressed in the consultation, the Scottish Government subsequently published a Position Statement on the 29 June 2017. This Statement proposed both legislative and non-legislative changes to the Planning System.

The key provisions of the Planning (Scotland) Bill, were detailed, together with the main implications for planning authorities and the next steps.  The report stated that the Planning Bill presented a package of measures intended to strengthen the planning system’s contribution to promoting inclusive growth and empowering communities.  The Bill outlined high-level changes to the Planning System. The detail of how the new provisions would work in practice would be contained within secondary legislation and guidance provided by the Scottish Government.  

Councillor McGurk, seconded by Councillor McNaughtan, moved that it be noted that the Planning (Scotland) Bill had been passed by the Scottish Parliament on 20 June 2019.

Councillor Doig, seconded by Councillor McCulloch, moved as an amendment (i) that it be noted that the Planning (Scotland) Bill had been passed by the Scottish Parliament on 20 June 2019; and (ii) that the Board writes to the Cabinet Secretary for Planning and requests that the Scottish Government reviews its position on the Community Rights to Appeal, if need be by enacting supplementary legislation to that effect to give communities the same rights as developers.

On the roll being called the following members voted for the motion: Councillors Binks, Don, James MacLaren, McGurk, McNaughtan and Strang. The following members voted for the amendment Councillors Brown, Burns, Doig, Kenny MacLaren, Mags MacLaren, McCulloch, Montgomery and Rodden.6 members having voted for the motion and 8 members having voted for the amendment, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: 

(a) That it be noted that the Planning (Scotland) Bill had been passed by the Scottish Parliament on 20 June 2019; and 

(b) That the Board writes to the Cabinet Secretary for Planning to request that the Scottish Government review its position on the Community Rights to Appeal, if need be by enacting supplementary legislation to that effect, to give communities the same rights as developers.
18 Renfrewshire Planning Performance Framework 2018/19
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
18
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the Renfrewshire Planning Performance Framework 2018/19 which was appended to the report. 

The report stated that a system of performance management for planning had been established by local authorities and the Scottish Government, where all planning authorities required to produce an annual Planning Performance Framework. The Framework had been developed by the Heads of Planning Scotland to capture and highlight a balanced measurement of planning performance, showing commitment to speed of decision making; providing certainty through timescales, process and advice; delivery of good quality development; project management; communication and engagement; and an overall ‘open for business’ attitude. It was noted that the Framework was not a policy document but provided planning authorities with an opportunity to demonstrate continuous improvement, achievements and successes. 
The Renfrewshire Planning Performance Framework 2018/19, a copy of which was appended to the report, demonstrated that that the Council continued to perform well in terms of the Scottish average. 

DECIDED: That the Renfrewshire Planning Performance Framework 2018/2019, as appended to the report and which had been submitted to the Scottish Government on 31 July 2019, be noted.
 
19 Renfrewshire Local Development Plan
(a) Renfrewshire Local Development Plan: Development Plan Scheme 2019
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
19(a)
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the annual Renfrewshire Development Plan Scheme 2019. 

The report stated that the Development Plan Scheme detailed the programme for preparation and review of the Local Development Plan and provided a participation statement indicating when, how and with whom consultation on the Plan would take place. The current Development Plan for Renfrewshire consisted of the Clydeplan Strategic Development Plan, approved by Scottish Minister on 24 July 2017, and the adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan 2014.  In preparing to replace the current adopted Renfrewshire Local Development Plan, the Proposed Renfrewshire Local Development Plan 2019 had been approved at the meeting of this Policy Board held on 12 March 2019. The Development Plan Scheme 2019 outlined the remaining stages and timetable for the adoption of the next Renfrewshire Local Development Plan and it was highlighted that the Development Plan Scheme 2019 would be submitted to Scottish Ministers and made available for public inspection.  A copy of the Renfrewshire Development Plan Scheme 2019 and Participation Statement was appended to the report. 

DECIDED: That the Renfrewshire Development Plan Scheme 2019 and Participation Statement be approved.
(b) Renfrewshire Local Development Plan Proposed Plan - Consultation Summary
Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
19(b)
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the outcome of the consultation undertaken in connection with the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan Proposed Plan.

The report advised that the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan Proposed Plan represented the Council’s ‘settled view’ setting out policies and proposals for the next ten-year period.  At the meeting of this Policy Board held on 12 March 2019 the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan Proposed Plan had been approved for consultation.  1478 representations were submitted during the 12-week consultation period and a summary of these representations and the key feedback received as a result of engagement was provided within Appendix 1 to the report, together with details of the future timeline and actions to be taken as part of the Local Development Plan process.

Councillor McGurk, seconded by Councillor McNaughtan, moved: -

(a) That the representations, feedback and comments made through the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan Proposed Plan Environmental Report Consultation and the engagement process be noted; 

(b) That the progress made towards adoption of the Plan be noted; and 

(c) That the Board note that the Burnfoot Road area of Lochwinnoch is recorded in the Renfrewshire Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (2017) as a potential flood risk and resolves that this matter be considered through the examination process. 

Councillor Doig, seconded by Councillor Kenny MacLaren, moved as an amendment: -
 
(a) That the representations, feedback and comments made through the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan Proposed Plan Environmental Report Consultation and the engagement process be noted; 

(b) That the progress made towards adoption of the Plan be noted; and 

(c) That the Board note that the Burnfoot Road area of Lochwinnoch is recorded in the Renfrewshire Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (2017) as a potential flood risk and resolves that this area is not suitable for housing land supply and should be retained and designated as greenbelt.

On the roll being called the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Doig and Kenny MacLaren. The following members voted for the motion Councillors Binks, Brown, Burns, Don, Mags MacLaren, James MacLaren, McCulloch, McGurk, McNaughtan, Montgomery, Rodden and Strang. 2 members having voted for the amendment and 12 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: 

(a) That the representations, feedback and comments made through the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan Proposed Plan Environmental Report Consultation and the engagement process be noted; 

(b) That the progress made towards adoption of the Plan be noted; and 

(c) That the Board note that the Burnfoot Road area of Lochwinnoch was recorded in the Renfrewshire Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (2017) as a potential flood risk and resolved that this matter be considered through the examination process. 
20 Greenspace, Parks and Play Areas and Villages Investment Fund

Report by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.

20
There was submitted a report by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to the Greenspace, Parks & Play Areas and Villages Investment fund.
 
A cross-service panel of officers had been established to review and assess applications against agreed objectives and criteria. The Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services had delegated authority to make grant awards under £5000.  The report stated that six applications seeking more than £5000 had been assessed in this round and met the criteria.  A summary of each application was provided within the report.  Details of a further application, which had sought less than £5000 and had been approved in terms of the delegated authority were provided.

DECIDED: 

(a) That the work currently being undertaken to support communities as they develop projects to be funded using the Greenspaces, Parks & Play Areas and Villages Investment Fund be noted; 

(b) That the award of a grant of £4875, in terms of delegated authority, to Langcraigs Parents Council detailed in Appendix 1 of the report be noted; and 

(c) That the projects detailed in Section 3 of the report and the Appendix, awarding grant funding totalling £209,088 to support community groups, be agreed. 
Proposal of Application Notices
Proposal of Application Notices are included for members information only. Members should note that the Notices may subsequently come before them for determination as planning applications and as such should consider the guidance contained in the Scottish Government Guidance on the Role of Councillors in Pre-Application Procedures and the Councillors Code of Conduct.
21 Proposal of Application Notices
Reports by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
21
There were submitted reports by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to proposal of application notices. 

Following discussion it was agreed that the following issues be added to the identified key issues detailed within the individual reports and be assessed should prospective applications be submitted ;-

19/0152/NO – Education and transport provision, access parking and traffic issues and the requirement to respect the density and character of the surrounding area including the greenbelt.
19/0292/NO - Education and transport provision.
19/0361/NO -- Education and transport provision.
19/0384/NO – Education and transport provision and the impact on the greenbelt.
19/0398/NO - Education and transport provision.
19/0399/NO - Education and transport provision and the requirement to respect the density and character of the surrounding area including the greenbelt.
19/0482/NO - Education and transport provision.
19/0497/NO - Education and transport provision.

DECIDED: That the key issues identified to date be noted.
Planning Applications
Members must deal with planning applications in an objective manner to ensure that they cannot 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.
22 Planning Applications
Reports by Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services.
22

There were submitted reports by the Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services relative to applications for planning permission that required to be determined by the Board.
 
DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Councillor James Maclaren having declared a non-financial interest in the following item, left the meeting and took no part in the discussion or voting thereon.  

 

 

 

(A) 18/0570/LB – WARD 6: DEMOLITION OF FORMER HOSPITAL BUILDING (CATEGORY B LISTED) AT HAZELWOOD, DYKEBAR HOSPITAL, GRAHAMSTON ROAD, PAISLEY PA2 7DE BY NHS GREATER GLASGOW AND CLYDE.

The Convener indicated that she intended to invite Councillor Mack to address the Policy Board in connection with the application. 
 
Legal advice was provided to the Board indicating that if the Board was to allow an individual to address the Board the same opportunity must be given to the applicant. It was further advised that it would be inappropriate to allow an individual who had not submitted written representations to address the Board in respect of the planning application and the potential implications should this be allowed were highlighted.

Councillor McGurk, seconded by Councillor McNaughtan, moved the application be granted subject to the conditions and reasons detailed within the report.

Councillor Doig, seconded by Councillor Kenny MacLaren, moved as an amendment that consideration of the application be continued for a hearing to which the applicants and Councillor Mack be invited to attend.

On the roll being called the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Doig, Kenny MacLaren and Mags MacLaren. The following members voted for the motion Councillors Binks, Brown, Burns, Don, McCulloch, McGurk, McNaughtan, Montgomery, Rodden and Strang. 3 members having voted for the amendment and 10 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: That the application be granted subject to the conditions and reasons detailed within the report. 

SEDERUNT

Councillor James MacLaren returned to the meeting.

(B) 19/0277/PP – WARD 4: ERECTION OF RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT COMPRISING 68 DWELLINGHOUSES AND 31 FLATS WITH ASSOCIATED ROADS, PARKING, OPEN SPACE AND LANDSCAPING AT LAND TO NORTH EAST OF JUNCTION WITH FERGUSLIE MILLARSTON DRIVE, PAISLEY BY COLLECTIVE ARCHITECTURE.

It was proposed that the application be granted subject to the conditions and reasons detailed within the report. This was agreed. 

DECIDED: That the application be granted.

(C) 19/0327/PP – WARD 6: ERECTION OF RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT COMPRISING 131 DWELLINGHOUSES WITH ASSOCIATED PARKING AND LANDSCAPING AT SITE BETWEEN BUTE CRESCENT AND SKYE CRESCENT, PAISLEY BY SANCTUARY HOMES.

It was proposed that the application be granted subject to the conditions and reasons detailed within the report. This was agreed. 

DECIDED: That the application be granted.

(D) 19/0899/PP – WARD 5: CHANGE OF USE FROM FIRE STATION TO MIXED COMMERCIAL USE ON THE GROUND FLOOR AND RESIDENTIAL USE ON THE UPPER FLOORS, INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL ALTERATIONS AND ERECTION OF THREE STOREY FLATTED DEVELOPMENT TO THE SIDE AT UNIT A, 21 GORDON STREET, PAISLEY PA1 1XD BY FERENZE DEVELOPMENTS LTD.

It was proposed that the application be granted subject to the conditions and reasons detailed within the report. This was agreed. 

DECIDED: That the application be granted.

(E) 19/0900/LB – WARD 5: CHANGE OF USE FROM FIRE STATION TO MIXED COMMERCIAL USE ON THE GROUND FLOOR AND RESIDENTIAL USE ON THE UPPER FLOORS, INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL ALTERATIONS AND ERECTION OF THREE STOREY FLATTED DEVELOPMENT TO THE SIDE AT UNIT A, 21 GORDON STREET, PAISLEY PA1 1XD BY FERENZE DEVELOPMENTS LTD.

It was proposed that the application be granted subject to the conditions and reasons detailed within the report. This was agreed. 

DECIDED: That the application be granted.

Section 7 Heading
Section 7
Section 8 Heading
Section 8

Supplementary Agenda

Agenda
Standard Items
To Follow Item

I refer to the agenda for the meeting of the Communities, Housing & Planning Policy Board to be held on 20 August 2019 at 1 pm and enclose the undernoted Appendix relative to item 6 which was not available when the agenda was originally issued.

6 Scottish Social Housing Charter - Annual Return 2018/19 Appendix
Submit Appendix referred to in the report.
Section 1 Heading
Section 1
Section 2 Heading
Section 2
Section 3 Heading
Section 3
Section 4 Heading
Section 4
Section 5 Heading
Section 5
Section 6 Heading
Section 6
Section 7 Heading
Section 7
Section 8 Heading
Section 8

Attendance

Attended - Other Members
Name
No other member attendance information has been recorded for the meeting.
Apologies
NameReason for Sending Apology
No apology information has been recorded for the meeting.
Absent
NameReason for Absence
Councillor Iain Nicolson 

Declarations of Interests

Member NameItem Ref.DetailsNature of DeclarationAction
Councillor Mags MacLaren5Member of the Boards of Linstone Housing Association and Williamsburgh Housing AssociationNon-PecuniaryRemain in meeting but take no part in discussion or voting
Councillor James MacLaren22 (a)Previously expressed a view in relation to planning applicationNon-PecuniaryLeave the meeting and take no part in discussion or voting
Councillor Emma Rodden8Turning Point employeeNon-PecuniaryRemain in meeting but take no part in discussion or voting

Visitors

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