Prior to the commencement of the meeting, Provost Cameron intimated that this meeting would be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site.

The Provost advised that an update on the duties she had undertaken since the last meeting of the Council held on 25 September 2025 had been distributed to members.

DECIDED: That the update be noted.

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

Council, 25 September 2025
Special Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Appeals Panel, 9 October 2025
Special Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board, 20 October 2025
Appointment Board - Head of Marketing & Communications, 22 October 2025
Special Council, 23 October 2025
Communities & Housing Policy Board, 28 October 2025
Regulatory Functions Board, 29 October 2025
Education & Children's Services Policy Board, 30 October 2025
Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board, 3 November 2025
Economy & Regeneration Policy Board, 4 November 2025
Planning & Climate Change Policy Board, 4 November 2025
Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board, 5 November 2025
Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Appeals Panel, 6 November 2025
Regulatory Functions Board, 13 November 2025
Finance, Resources & Customer Services Policy Board, 20 November 2025
Leadership Board, 3 December 2025
Special Regulatory Functions Board, 4 December 2025

DECIDED: That the Minutes be approved.

Renfrewshire Youth Voice representatives gave a presentation which highlighted their organisation’s aims, affiliations, opportunities and impact on the Renfrewshire community.

The Provost thanked them for their insightful presentation.

DECIDED:  That the presentation be noted.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources reviewing the Treasury Management Strategy Statement 2025/26, incorporating the annual investment strategy, the Council’s borrowing and investments and compliance with treasury management and prudential indicators together with an economic update and interest rate forecast.

DECIDED:

(a) That the treasury management activity for the period 1 April to 17 October 2025 (reporting period 7) be noted; and
  
(b) That the ‘Probable’ prudential indicators for capital expenditure as detailed in section 7 of the report be approved.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland's 2024/25 Annual Report.

DECIDED: That the 2024/25 Annual Report by the Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland be noted.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Paterson and Steel in the following terms:

"2026 FIFA WORLD CUP

“Council welcomes the achievement of the Scotland Men’s National Team in qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and notes the sense of pride and community spirit this has generated across Scotland.

To help residents share in the tournament and support wider participation in sport, Council asks Officers to assess the feasibility of creating a Renfrewshire Fan Zone during the World Cup and to report back to the next appropriate Policy Board.”"

Councillor Paterson, seconded by Councillor Steel, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP

Council welcomes the achievement of the Scotland Men’s National Team in qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and notes the sense of pride and community spirit this has generated across Scotland.

To help residents share in the tournament and support wider participation in sport, Council asks Officers to assess the feasibility of creating a Renfrewshire Fan Zone during the World Cup and to report back to the next appropriate Policy Board.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McMillan and Montgomery in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire council notes that one of our neighbouring authorities Glasgow City Council are considering charges for motorists entering the city and for those using the Clyde Tunnel.
 
This will have a detrimental impact on people who rely on cars for work, leisure and health appointments. At a time when a lot of people are struggling with bills a charge for going about your daily business is not appropriate.

Council therefore agrees to write to the leader of Glasgow City Council expressing our opposition to these proposals."

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

DECIDED: Renfrewshire Council notes that one of our neighbouring authorities Glasgow City Council are considering charges for motorists entering the city and for those using the Clyde Tunnel.
 
This will have a detrimental impact on people who rely on cars for work, leisure and health appointments. At a time when a lot of people are struggling with bills a charge for going about your daily business is not appropriate.

Council therefore agrees to write to the leader of Glasgow City Council expressing our opposition to these proposals.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McMillan and Steel in the following terms:

"Council congratulates Elderslie Wallace Bowling for reaching its 150th Anniversary earlier this year. Council recognises the significant role the club plays within the community of Elderslie and the part it plays in improving the health and wellbeing of local people.

Council therefore asks the Provost to both express Council's appreciation of the work the club carries as well as congratulating the club on reaching this impressive milestone."

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

DECIDED: Council congratulates Elderslie Wallace Bowling for reaching its 150th Anniversary earlier this year. Council recognises the significant role the club plays within the community of Elderslie and the part it plays in improving the health and wellbeing of local people.

Council therefore asks the Provost to both express Council's appreciation of the work the club carries as well as congratulating the club on reaching this impressive milestone.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Davidson and McDonald in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire Foodbank Parking Passes

Council will support Renfrewshire Foodbank, by providing 3 parking passes for the Paisley distribution centre at the Paisley Baptist Church, that can be used during the operation of the Renfrewshire Foodbank only."

Councillor Davidson, seconded by Councillor McDonald then moved the motion.

Councillor Nicolson, seconded by Councillor J Cameron, moved as an amendment that "Council agrees to allocate £10,000 from the Fairer Renfrewshire Fund to support Renfrewshire Foodbank. This will support the foodbank in responding to the additional demand over Winter 2025 and into 2026. Council further agrees that it is a matter for the Foodbank how they utilise that funding to meet their current operational needs and priorities".

Councillors Davidson and McDonald, being the mover and seconder of the motion, agreed in terms of Standing Order 27 to accept the amendment which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: Council agrees to allocate £10,000 from the Fairer Renfrewshire Fund to support Renfrewshire Foodbank. This will support the foodbank in responding to the additional demand over Winter 2025 and into 2026. Council further agrees that it is a matter for the Foodbank how they utilise that funding to meet their current operational needs and priorities.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Clark and Smith in the following terms:

"CCTV for Renfrewshire Parks

Renfrewshire Council notes with deep concern the recent high-profile incident in Brodie Park, and child safeguarding concerns elsewhere, and therefore proposes that the Council reviews its CCTV policy with the aim of placing CCTV in all of Renfrewshire’s main parks to assist with the safety and wellbeing of all users."

Councillor Clark, seconded by Councillor Smith, then moved the motion which was was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: CCTV for Renfrewshire Parks

Renfrewshire Council notes with deep concern the recent high-profile incident in Brodie Park, and child safeguarding concerns elsewhere, and therefore proposes that the Council reviews its CCTV policy with the aim of placing CCTV in all of Renfrewshire’s main parks to assist with the safety and wellbeing of all users.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Shaw and Hughes in the following terms:

"Renaming Andrew Avenue

Council notes the recent stripping of titles from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor by The Crown, and the ongoing national concern regarding his behaviour and character.

Council confirms its position that persons having a street named after them are being given a great honour, and that those persons should therefore be honourable and worthy of the recognition.

Given the change in Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s status, Council directs officers to initiate a consultation with the street’s residents on the possibility of renaming Andrew Avenue."

Councillor Shaw, seconded by Councillor Hughes, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: Renaming Andrew Avenue

Council notes the recent stripping of titles from the from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor by The Crown, and the ongoing national concern regarding his behaviour and character.

Council confirms its position that persons having a street named after them are being given a great honour, and that those persons should therefore be honourable and worthy of the recognition.

Given the change in Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s status, Council directs officers to initiate a consultation with the street’s residents on the possibility of renaming Andrew Avenue.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Smith and Graham in the following terms:

"Monsignor Denis Carlin – Celebrating 50 Years of Service

Renfrewshire council notes the retirement of Monsignor Denis Carlin. Council congratulates Fr Carlin for 50 years of service across communities in Renfrewshire and the Diocese of Paisley. Council wishes to note its gratitude to Fr Carlin for his years of ministry and wishes him the best for his retirement."

Councillor Smith, seconded by Councillor G Graham, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: Monsignor Denis Carlin – Celebrating 50 Years of Service

Renfrewshire council notes the retirement of Monsignor Denis Carlin. Council congratulates Fr Carlin for 50 years of service across communities in Renfrewshire and the Diocese of Paisley. Council wishes to note its gratitude to Fr Carlin for his years of ministry and wishes him the best for his retirement.

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

"The Centenary of Johnstone Wheelers Cycling Club in 2026

Renfrewshire Council congratulates the Johnstone Wheelers Cycling Club on their 100th anniversary of their foundation in 2026, and applauds the Club for the outstanding contribution they have made to Scottish, UK, and international cycling over the last century."

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

DECIDED: The Centenary of Johnstone Wheelers Cycling Club in 2026

Renfrewshire Council congratulates the Johnstone Wheelers Cycling Club on their 100th anniversary of their foundation in 2026, and applauds the Club for the outstanding contribution they have made to Scottish, UK, and international cycling over the last century.

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

"Government Research on Ultra-Processed Foods and Public Health in Renfrewshire 

Renfrewshire Council wishes all its residents, of all faiths and none, a very happy festive season and recognizes that many religious and cultural festivities have at their heart the pleasure of collective social and family gatherings where traditional meals and dishes are central to the celebrations. Quality plentiful food is indeed essential to the enrichment of human society.

This Council, only seeking the best for all our residents, believes in the promotion of the highest ethical and legal standards of food quality, from farm to plate, and notes the growing concerns of the scientific community, both at home and abroad, about the prevalence of ultra-processed food and its potential detrimental effects on public health.

Council further welcomes the commitment of the scientific community in the UK and beyond to undertake further research into the links between UPFs and poor diet and health and working with bodies such the Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland. Council agrees to write to the FSA and FSS and calls on them to collaborate to commission further research, independent of industry into these links, and in particular to explore:

• Potential mechanisms of causation linking UPFs and poor health outcomes;

• The health benefits of consumption of products with no or minimal processing on both overall dietary patterns and on health outcomes;

• The impact of the hyper-palatability and energy density of foods on dietary consumption;

• The long-term health effects of consumption of specific additives and combinations of additives; and

• The cost-effectiveness of interventions that can reduce consumption of less healthy, often highly processed foods, and increase the availability and affordability of healthier foods."

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

DECIDED: Government Research on Ultra-Processed Foods and Public Health in Renfrewshire 

Renfrewshire Council wishes all its residents, of all faiths and none, a very happy festive season and recognizes that many religious and cultural festivities have at their heart the pleasure of collective social and family gatherings where traditional meals and dishes are central to the celebrations. Quality plentiful food is indeed essential to the enrichment of human society.

This Council, only seeking the best for all our residents, believes in the promotion of the highest ethical and legal standards of food quality, from farm to plate, and notes the growing concerns of the scientific community, both at home and abroad, about the prevalence of ultra-processed food and its potential detrimental effects on public health.

Council further welcomes the commitment of the scientific community in the UK and beyond to undertake further research into the links between UPFs and poor diet and health and working with bodies such the Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland. Council agrees to write to the FSA and FSS and calls on them to collaborate to commission further research, independent of industry into these links, and in particular to explore:

• Potential mechanisms of causation linking UPFs and poor health outcomes;

The health benefits of consumption of products with no or minimal processing on both overall dietary patterns and on health outcomes;

• The impact of the hyper-palatability and energy density of foods on dietary consumption;

The long-term health effects of consumption of specific additives and combinations of additives; and

• The cost-effectiveness of interventions that can reduce consumption of less healthy, often highly processed foods, and increase the availability and affordability of healthier foods.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Provost L Cameron and Councillor MacFarlane in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire Youth Voice

Renfrewshire Council acknowledges the importance of the views of young people across the country, particularly in Renfrewshire where young people have been empowered to amplify their voices and act as agents of positive social change through Renfrewshire Youth Voice (RYV).

Renfrewshire Youth Voice continues to grow and thrive, with members gaining confidence and developing essential skills for life, learning, and work.

Supported by Renfrewshire Council’s Connected Communities Team, young people have been empowered to amplify their voices and act as agents of positive social change. Through a rights-based approach, the organisation has strengthened its impact and enhanced the experiences of its members.

The support of the Council will be important to RYV as they take forward a range of new ideas which will amplify the role that young people have in Renfrewshire.

Renfrewshire Council commends the work of RYV, and through the Connected Communities team, will continue to work with them and commit to providing, or advising on, any support that would help them to develop and put their ideas into place."

Provost L Cameron, seconded by Councillor MacFarlane, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: Renfrewshire Youth Voice

Renfrewshire Council acknowledges the importance of the views of young people across the country, particularly in Renfrewshire where young people have been empowered to amplify their voices and act as agents of positive social change through Renfrewshire Youth Voice (RYV).

Renfrewshire Youth Voice continues to grow and thrive, with members gaining confidence and developing essential skills for life, learning, and work.

Supported by Renfrewshire Council’s Connected Communities Team, young people have been empowered to amplify their voices and act as agents of positive social change. Through a rights-based approach, the organisation has strengthened its impact and enhanced the experiences of its members.

The support of the Council will be important to RYV as they take forward a range of new ideas which will amplify the role that young people have in Renfrewshire.

Renfrewshire Council commends the work of RYV, and through the Connected Communities team, will continue to work with them and commit to providing, or advising on, any support that would help them to develop and put their ideas into place.

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

"Empty Property Relief for Listed Buildings

In 2023 Renfrewshire Council implemented the discretion to remove empty property rates relief as it applies for listed buildings to discourage long term vacant and deteriorating listed buildings. Given 2 years have elapsed it is now an appropriate time to review this policy and examine how it can be further used to encourage the reuse of unoccupied listed properties.

Council therefore agrees that officers review the Non-Domestic Rates – Empty Properties Operational Policy and any potential amendments required which may assist in encouraging owners to bring their properties back into use. A board paper with the outcome of the review to be presented at the relevant board for members consideration."

Councillor McNaughtan, seconded by Councillor K MacLaren, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: Empty Property Relief for Listed Buildings

In 2023 Renfrewshire Council implemented the discretion to remove empty property rates relief as it applies for listed buildings to discourage long term vacant and deteriorating listed buildings. Given 2 years have elapsed it is now an appropriate time to review this policy and examine how it can be further used to encourage the reuse of unoccupied listed properties.

Council therefore agrees that officers review the Non-Domestic Rates – Empty Properties Operational Policy and any potential amendments required which may assist in encouraging owners to bring their properties back into use. A board paper with the outcome of the review to be presented at the relevant board for members consideration.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Innes and MacFarlane in the following terms:

"Responsible and Ethical Expansion of AI in Renfrewshire Council

Council acknowledges the successful introduction of the award-winning Millie, Renfrewshire Council’s AI-powered customer support system and that it has improved access to services, reduced waiting times, and supported staff by handling routine enquiries. It demonstrates our commitment to digital innovation and notes that Renfrewshire is ahead of many Scottish local authorities in adopting practical, resident-focused AI tools.

Council recognises that as AI becomes a larger part of public service delivery, ethical governance and transparent safeguards are essential to protect residents’ rights, prevent bias, and ensure AI continues to support key services and our valued workforce. As AI technologies learn over time, ongoing oversight and regular updates to elected members are necessary to ensure safe, transparent and responsible use as these systems evolve.

Council agrees that a 6-monthly ‘AI Transparency Report’ be made to the relevant board, outlining all AI tools utilised by the council the purpose and function of each system, any data-protection or equality assessments undertaken, changes since the previous report, and any identified risks, mitigations or recommendations for future deployment.

Renfrewshire can be a national leader in ethical, transparent, resident-focused AI, and that Millie as an example represents a foundation on which to build the confidence and transparency in our use of AI technology and one that the public can have trust in."

Councillor Innes, seconded by Councillor MacFarlane, then moved the motion.

Councillor Devine, seconded by Councillor Hood, moved as an amendment that, in addition, Council believes that people should have a choice to use AI or speak to a person when calling Renfrewshire council. Council asks the IT department to investigate changing the initial start of a call with this option as soon as possible. This will give people a choice to use AI or speak to a real person at the beginning of a call.

Councillors Innes and MacFarlane, being the mover and seconder of the motion, agreed in terms of Standing Order 27 to accept the addition to the motion. The motion as amended was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: Responsible and Ethical Expansion of AI in Renfrewshire Council

Council acknowledges the successful introduction of the award-winning Millie, Renfrewshire Council’s AI-powered customer support system and that it has improved access to services, reduced waiting times, and supported staff by handling routine enquiries. It demonstrates our commitment to digital innovation and notes that Renfrewshire is ahead of many Scottish local authorities in adopting practical, resident-focused AI tools.

Council recognises that as AI becomes a larger part of public service delivery, ethical governance and transparent safeguards are essential to protect residents’ rights, prevent bias, and ensure AI continues to support key services and our valued workforce. As AI technologies learn over time, ongoing oversight and regular updates to elected members are necessary to ensure safe, transparent and responsible use as these systems evolve.

Council agrees that a 6-monthly ‘AI Transparency Report’ be made to the relevant board, outlining all AI tools utilised by the council the purpose and function of each system, any data-protection or equality assessments undertaken, changes since the previous report, and any identified risks, mitigations or recommendations for future deployment.

Renfrewshire can be a national leader in ethical, transparent, resident-focused AI, and that Millie as an example represents a foundation on which to build the confidence and transparency in our use of AI technology and one that the public can have trust in.

Council believes that people should have a choice to use AI or speak to a person when calling Renfrewshire council. Council asks the IT department to investigate changing the initial start of a call with this option as soon as possible. This will give people a choice to use AI or speak to a real person at the beginning of a call.