The Provost advised that an update on the duties she had undertaken since the last meeting of the Council held on 26 February 2026 had been distributed to members.

DECIDED: That the position be noted.

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

Council, 26 February 2026
Communities & Housing Policy Board, 10 March 2026
Regulatory Functions Board, 11 March 2026
Education & Children's Services Policy Board, 12 March 2026
Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board, 16 March 2026
Economy & Regeneration Policy Board, 17 March 2026
Planning & Climate Change Policy Board, 17 March 2026
Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board, 18 March 2026
Local Review Body, 24 March 2026
Regulatory Functions Board, 26 March 2026
Finance, Resources & Customer Services Policy Board, 23 April 2026
Leadership Board, 29 April 2026
Community Asset Transfer Review Appeals Panel, 12 May 2026

DECIDED: That the Minutes be approved.

There was submitted an update report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Revenue and Capital Budgets 2026/27.

The report intimated that following the setting of the Council’s revenue and capital budgets at the meeting of the Council held on 26 February 2026 the Scottish Government had passed the final stage of its 2026/27 budget, released the final Local Government Finance Circular and provided an update to the approved Revenue Budget 2026/27. An appendix to the report summarised the consequential in-year approved Revenue Budget 2026/27 allocation for each service and included total spending need, both recurring and non-recurring.

DECIDED:

(a) That the content of the report, which reflected the impact of decisions taken by the Council on 26 February 2026 and changes relating to the final Scottish Budget, be noted;

(b) That the revised Council revenue budget for 2026/27, as outlined in Section 7 of the report, be agreed; and

(c) That the proposed changes to revenue and capital budgets, outlined in sections
6.1 and 9.2 of the report respectively, be approved.

There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to: changes to the Council board meeting timetable, membership of the Board of the AMIDS (Renfrewshire) Limited Liability Partnership and the Council's Scheme of Delegated Functions; and requests to light up Council buildings to mark Epilepsy Scotland’s Light Up Purple Campaign and Tourette's Awareness Day.

Councillor Nicolson, seconded by Councillor J Cameron, moved:

"That the recommendations contained at paragraphs 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 be agreed, and that the lighting up requests set out at paragraph 2.4 of the report be agreed.

In addition, that the following changes to board memberships and appointments to outside bodies be made:-

(i) Councillor Bruce MacFarlane replace Councillor Michelle Campbell on the Economy & Regeneration Policy Board, and that Councillor John McNaughtan be appointed Depute Convener of that board.

(ii) Councillor Robert Innes replace Councillor Michelle Campbell on the Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board, and that Councillor Jacqueline Cameron be appointed as Convener of that board.

(iii) Councillor Jacqueline Cameron be appointed as Convener of the Community Asset Transfer Sub-committee.

(iv) Councillor Jim Paterson replace Councillor Michelle Campbell on the Leadership Board.

(v) Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson replace Councillor Iain Nicolson on the Communities and Housing Policy Board.

(vi) Councillor Iain Nicolson replace Councillor Michelle Campbell as Chair of the Erskine, Inchinnan, Bishopton & Langbank Local Partnership.

(vii) Councillor Marie McGurk be appointed to the vacancy on the Renfrewshire Licensing Board.

(viii) Councillor Audrey Doig replace Councillor Michelle Campbell on the Scottish Councils Committee on Radioactive Substances (SCCORS).

(ix) Councillor Robert Innes replace Councillor Michelle Campbell as a substitute Member on the Renfrewshire Valuation Joint Board.

(x) Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson replace Councillor Michelle Campbell as a substitute Member on the Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Integration Joint Board."

This was agreed unanimously.

The Head of Corporate Governance advised that Councillor Campbell had resigned  from the Licensing Board following her election to the Scottish Parliament.

DECIDED:

(a) That it be agreed that future meetings of the Audit, Risk and Scrutiny Board would commence at 10am;

(b) That it be agreed that Alasdair Morrison, Head of Economy & Development Services, would replace Barbara Walker, City Deal and Infrastructure Programme Director, as a representative of the Council on the Board of the AMIDS (Renfrewshire) Limited Liability Partnership;

(c) That the changes to the Scheme of Delegated Functions, as set out in section 3 of the report, be approved;

(d) That the requests to light up Council buildings and property purple on 26 March 2027 and annually thereafter to mark Epilepsy Scotland’s Light Up Purple Campaign, and teal/green on 7 June 2026 and annually thereafter to mark Tourette's Awareness Day be agreed;

(e) That it be noted that Councillor Campbell had resigned  from the Licensing Board following her election to the Scottish Parliament;

(f) That Councillor Bruce MacFarlane replace Councillor Michelle Campbell on the Economy & Regeneration Policy Board, and that Councillor John McNaughtan be appointed Depute Convener of that board;

(g) That Councillor Robert Innes replace Councillor Michelle Campbell on the Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board, and that Councillor Jacqueline Cameron be appointed as Convener of that board;

(h) That Councillor Jacqueline Cameron be appointed as Convener of the Community Asset Transfer Sub-committee;

(i) That Councillor Jim Paterson replace Councillor Michelle Campbell on the Leadership Board;

(j) That Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson replace Councillor Iain Nicolson on the Communities and Housing Policy Board;

(k) That Councillor Iain Nicolson replace Councillor Michelle Campbell as Chair of the Erskine, Inchinnan, Bishopton & Langbank Local Partnership;

(l) That Councillor Marie McGurk be appointed to the vacancy on the Renfrewshire Licensing Board;

(m) That Councillor Audrey Doig replace Councillor Michelle Campbell on the Scottish Councils Committee on Radioactive Substances (SCCORS);

(n) That Councillor Robert Innes replace Councillor Michelle Campbell as a substitute Member on the Renfrewshire Valuation Joint Board; and

(o) That Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson replace Councillor Michelle Campbell as a substitute Member on the Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Integration Joint Board.

Under reference to item 11 of the Minute of the meeting of Council held on 11 December 2025, there was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to the renaming of Andrew Avenue, Renfrew. The report referenced the consultation process which had taken place with residents of Andrew Avenue and advised that 73% of respondents were not in favour of changing the name of the street.

DECIDED:

(a) That the outcome of the consultation process be noted; and

(b) That no further action be taken with regards to renaming Andrew Avenue, Renfrew.

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

"Council congratulates Craig Ferguson of Paisley on undertaking his 3,000-mile ‘Tartan Trek’ across the United States in support of Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH); commends his efforts to raise awareness of mental health issues and to raise significant funds for the charity; and wishes him every success in completing this."

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

DECIDED: Council congratulates Craig Ferguson of Paisley on undertaking his 3,000-mile ‘Tartan Trek’ across the United States in support of Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH); commends his efforts to raise awareness of mental health issues and to raise significant funds for the charity; and wishes him every success in completing this.

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

"25th Anniversary of Lochwinnoch Arts Festival

 
Council congratulates Dr Morag Thow and Professor Rowena Murray, on the 25th anniversary of the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival, the longest running community arts event in Renfrewshire, and one in which they have played a central organisational role.

The dedication of Dr Thow and Professor Murray, and the wider LAF support team, has allowed nationally and internationally recognised artists, comedians, and musicians, to come to Renfrewshire at affordable prices. The Festival has become a pivotal cultural and creative offer attracting people from Renfrewshire and beyond. Council further congratulates the organisers of the Lochwinnoch Feel Good Festival, and the Lochwinnoch Boo Crew, whose passion for building on the example of the LAF have led to new collaborative and community events in the village."

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

DECIDED: 25th Anniversary of Lochwinnoch Arts Festival

Council congratulates Dr Morag Thow and Professor Rowena Murray, on the 25th anniversary of the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival, the longest running community arts event in Renfrewshire, and one in which they have played a central organisational role.

The dedication of Dr Thow and Professor Murray, and the wider LAF support team, has allowed nationally and internationally recognised artists, comedians, and musicians, to come to Renfrewshire at affordable prices. The Festival has become a pivotal cultural and creative offer attracting people from Renfrewshire and beyond. Council further congratulates the organisers of the Lochwinnoch Feel Good Festival, and the Lochwinnoch Boo Crew, whose passion for building on the example of the LAF have led to new collaborative and community events in the village.

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

"Supporting the Red Meat Industry in Renfrewshire

This Council notes that the Scottish red meat industry contributes more than £2 billion to the Scottish economy and supports around 50,000 jobs across the country, and also brings health, and community benefits to consumers.

Council supports the red meat industry as a major contributor to the Renfrewshire economy and sustainability of rural Renfrewshire’s villages and communities, shares the concern of the National Farmers Union Scotland about the rise in cheap imported red meat products, and pledges to undertake a feasibility study to see if we can maximise local red meat produce for use in school meals within Renfrewshire as part of a balanced diet."

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

Councillor G Graham, seconded by Councillor Clark, moved as an amendment that:

"This Council notes that the Scottish meat industry contributes more than £2.7 billion to the Scottish economy and supports approximately 50,000 jobs nationwide. The Council further recognises that Renfrewshire’s farmers—both pastoral and arable—make a significant contribution to the local economy, food security, and the sustainability of rural villages and communities across the authority.

The Council acknowledges the concerns raised by National Farmers Union Scotland regarding the increasing volume of imported meat products and their potential impact on domestic producers. In response, the Council instructs officers to assess the feasibility of adopting a “Scottish First” sourcing approach for catering provision across Renfrewshire, including school meals, with the aim of strengthening local supply chains and supporting the Scottish agricultural sector where viable."

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Clark, Davidson, Gilmour, G Graham, McDonald, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin and Smith.

The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns and J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, N Graham, Gray, Hannigan, Hood, Hughes, Innes, Leishman, MacFarlane, J MacLaren, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGonigle, McGuire, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel.

9 members having voted for the amendment and 31 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: Supporting the Red Meat Industry in Renfrewshire

This Council notes that the Scottish red meat industry contributes more than £2 billion to the Scottish economy and supports around 50,000 jobs across the country, and also brings health, and community benefits to consumers.

Council supports the red meat industry as a major contributor to the Renfrewshire economy and sustainability of rural Renfrewshire’s villages and communities, shares the concern of the National Farmers Union Scotland about the rise in cheap imported red meat products, and pledges to undertake a feasibility study to see if we can maximise local red meat produce for use in school meals within Renfrewshire as part of a balanced diet.

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

"Council agrees that it is not acceptable that Johnstone Swimming Pool is closed for much of the day from Monday to Friday. Compared to other public swimming pools in Renfrewshire use of Johnstone Swimming Pool is significantly impacted by reduced opening hours and users negatively affected.

Council therefore agrees for officers to meet with One Ren to discuss the possibility of the pool once again being open full time during weekdays."

Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor G Graham, then moved the motion.

Councillor J Cameron, seconded by Cllr Hughes, moved as an amendment:

"Johnstone swimming pool is part of the Johnstone Community Sports Hub which is the only pool in Renfrewshire which operates within the educational estate, under a shared use arrangement, with priority given to curriculum delivery.

The current Learning Estate Engagement programme is consulting on the ambitious multi-million investment in our School Learning Estate including a new Johnstone High School. The sports hub and facilities within the school will make up part of the engagement programme with staff, residents and the local community given the opportunity to have their say on the shape of a future school and facilities.

Council therefore agrees that officers will continue to liaise with One Ren once the consultation process is complete and discuss the community’s view."

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns and J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Audrey Doig, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel.

The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Clark, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Gilmour, G Graham, N Graham, Gray, Hood, Leishman, J MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McGonigle, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin, Mylet and Smith.

The following member abstained: Councillor Hannigan.

20 members voted for the amendment, 20 members voted for the motion and 1 member abstained. There being an equality of votes, the Provost used her second and casting vote in favour of the amendment. 

DECIDED: Johnstone swimming pool is part of the Johnstone Community Sports Hub which is the only pool in Renfrewshire which operates within the educational estate, under a shared use arrangement, with priority given to curriculum delivery.

The current Learning Estate Engagement programme is consulting on the ambitious multi-million investment in our School Learning Estate including a new Johnstone High School. The sports hub and facilities within the school will make up part of the engagement programme with staff, residents and the local community given the opportunity to have their say on the shape of a future school and facilities.

Council therefore agrees that officers will continue to liaise with One Ren once the consultation process is complete and discuss the community’s view.

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

"Renfrewshire Council Motion on changes impacting the Motability Scheme

Renfrewshire council expresses its deep concern at recent changes impacting the Motability scheme. Which are expected to take affect from 1st July 2026.

Council notes that while operational changes to Motability Scheme including the reduction of the annual mileage allowance to 10.000 miles and the increase in excess mileage charges from 5p to 25 pence per mile have been implemented by Motability. These changes arise as a direct consequence of the UK Labour Government's decision to alter the taxation framework under which the scheme operates.

Council further notes the application of VAT at 20% to elements of the scheme, alongside the introduction of Insurance Premium Tax at 12%, has significantly increased the cost of the Motability Scheme.

Council believes that the increased cost is now being passed on to disabled people through reduced allowances, increased charges, restrictions on usage, including limitations on travel outside the UK.

Council recognises that the Motability Scheme was established to support disabled people to live independently by providing access to safe. Reliable and where necessary adapted vehicles.

Council is concerned that the cumulative effect of these changes’ risks undermining that purpose by increasing costs and restricting mobility for disabled people, particularly those on fixed incomes.

Council further believes that access to a Motability Vehicle is not a luxury but a necessity for many disabled people and their families, enabling access to health care. Employment, education, family life and social participation.

Therefore, council agrees to,

Write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer expressing concern at the impact of recent taxation decisions on the affordability of the Motability Scheme

Call for a review of the tax treatment of the scheme, with the aim of restoring affordability for disabled users.

Seek assurance that disabled people will not bear the financial burden of policy decisions that increase the cost of essential mobility support."

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

DECIDED:

Renfrewshire Council Motion on changes impacting the Motability Scheme

Renfrewshire council expresses its deep concern at recent changes impacting the Motability scheme. Which are expected to take affect from 1st July 2026.

Council notes that while operational changes to Motability Scheme including the reduction of the annual mileage allowance to 10.000 miles and the increase in excess mileage charges from 5p to 25 pence per mile have been implemented by Motability. These changes arise as a direct consequence of the UK Labour Government's decision to alter the taxation framework under which the scheme operates.

Council further notes the application of VAT at 20% to elements of the scheme, alongside the introduction of Insurance Premium Tax at 12%, has significantly increased the cost of the Motability Scheme.

Council believes that the increased cost is now being passed on to disabled people through reduced allowances, increased charges, restrictions on usage, including limitations on travel outside the UK.

Council recognises that the Motability Scheme was established to support disabled people to live independently by providing access to safe. Reliable and where necessary adapted vehicles.

Council is concerned that the cumulative effect of these changes’ risks undermining that purpose by increasing costs and restricting mobility for disabled people, particularly those on fixed incomes.

Council further believes that access to a Motability Vehicle is not a luxury but a necessity for many disabled people and their families, enabling access to health care. Employment, education, family life and social participation.

Therefore, council agrees to,

Write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer expressing concern at the impact of recent taxation decisions on the affordability of the Motability Scheme

Call for a review of the tax treatment of the scheme, with the aim of restoring affordability for disabled users.

Seek assurance that disabled people will not bear the financial burden of policy decisions that increase the cost of essential mobility support.

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

"Council wishes to express concern over the level of service it receives from its supplier of bus shelters.

In order to resolve this situation Council instructs officers to begin discussions with the supplier on how the service provided can be improved."

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

DECIDED: Council wishes to express concern over the level of service it receives from its supplier of bus shelters.

In order to resolve this situation Council instructs officers to begin discussions with the supplier on how the service provided can be improved.

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

"Council believes that the two communities of Johnstone and Linwood should have improved bus links between them than those currently in place.

Council therefore instructs officers to contact SPT in order to discuss options that would lead to a higher frequency of buses, different routes and creating services that meet the needs of the two communities."

Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor Gilmour, then moved the motion.

Councillor Audrey Doig, seconded by Councillor Innes, moved as a first amendment that in addition:

"Council believes that one option to be considered should be a Johnstone and Villages Circular Bus which takes in Johnstone, Brookfield, Bridge of Weir, Houston, Linwood, the Phoenix, Elderslie, and back to Johnstone."

Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Devine, moved as a second amendment that in addition:

“Council further believes that the creation of better bus services across Renfrewshire is predicated upon the re-municipalisation of bus services, as provided for by the 2019 Transport Act (Scotland). Council therefore instructs the Chief Executive to liaise with his counterparts in East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Councils, to discuss the practical steps required to create a tripartite bus service covering Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire, and Inverclyde, based on the successful Lothian Buses model.

Council requests that following these discussions the Chief Executive prepares a report for the Leadership Board with his recommendations.”

Declaration of Interest

Having heard the terms of the amendments, Councillor Gray declared an interest for the reason that he had dealings with McGill's busses as part of his occupation. Councillor Gray indicated that as he had declared an interest, he would leave the meeting during any discussion and voting on the item.

Councillors McMillan and Gilmour, being the mover and seconder of the motion, agreed in terms of Standing Order 27 to accept both the first and second amendments as additions. The motion, as amended, was agreed unanimously. 

DECIDED: Council believes that the two communities of Johnstone and Linwood should have improved bus links between them than those currently in place.

Council therefore instructs officers to contact SPT in order to discuss options that would lead to a higher frequency of buses, different routes and creating services that meet the needs of the two communities.

Council believes that one option to be considered should be a Johnstone and Villages Circular Bus which takes in Johnstone, Brookfield, Bridge of Weir, Houston, Linwood, the Phoenix, Elderslie, and back to Johnstone.

Council further believes that the creation of better bus services across Renfrewshire is predicated upon the re-municipalisation of bus services, as provided for by the 2019 Transport Act (Scotland). Council therefore instructs the Chief Executive to liaise with his counterparts in East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Councils, to discuss the practical steps required to create a tripartite bus service covering Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire, and Inverclyde, based on the successful Lothian Buses model.

Council requests that following these discussions the Chief Executive prepares a report for the Leadership Board with his recommendations.

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

"Bee Happy Houston

Council notes the success of the “Bee Happy Houston” group over the past decade in enhancing local biodiversity, improving green spaces and strengthening community spirit;

Congratulates all local volunteers who have been involved over the last ten years for their sustained commitment and achievement;

Recognises the positive impact of community-led environmental action and Bee Happy Houston’s pioneering attitude in engaging with the Council’s Team Up to Clean Up campaign;

And agrees to support the continuation and promotion of such initiatives across Renfrewshire through existing programmes and partnership working;

And affirms the importance of the Council empowering local communities to lead the way in creating greener, cleaner and more sustainable neighbourhoods."

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

DECIDED: Bee Happy Houston

Council notes the success of the “Bee Happy Houston” group over the past decade in enhancing local biodiversity, improving green spaces and strengthening community spirit;

Congratulates all local volunteers who have been involved over the last ten years for their sustained commitment and achievement;

Recognises the positive impact of community-led environmental action and Bee Happy Houston’s pioneering attitude in engaging with the Council’s Team Up to Clean Up campaign;

And agrees to support the continuation and promotion of such initiatives across Renfrewshire through existing programmes and partnership working;

And affirms the importance of the Council empowering local communities to lead the way in creating greener, cleaner and more sustainable neighbourhoods.