January 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 9th January 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NB; Treasurer
SA
APOLOGIES
PC. Gillian Gracie, Cllr. Hughes, Cllr. McLuckie, JM, NS.
December minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
P.C Gillian Gracie passes on apologies for being unable to attend this month’s meeting, due to operational demands. Her absence has been felt however she urges anyone who needs to speak with her to contact her either by telephone on 101 or emailing me – [email protected]
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
Recorded Crime
Since the last meeting at the start of December 2013. There have been 9 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 7 have been detected.
Anti social behaviour relating to youths has decreased over the festive period. There have been no issues identified at this time.
ASBIT patrols are continuing throughout the Upper Braes Area at weekends, where area’s have been identified as problem spots. There have been no issues over the past month.
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR UPDATE
Thanks go to the 100 people who attended the carol concert held in Maddiston Primary School on 20th December 2013. Thanks also go to Rev Louise St. Clements for conducting the service and helping to create a good community spirit. The Christmas lunch held by the Community Council was attended by 20 members of our older members of the community.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Standing Water at Glendevon Drive
The picket fence surrounding the water has been moved nearer the road. The council has met Greenbelt and await a response from them.
2. Wind Turbine at Whitecraigs Farm
Planning permission has been refused for this construction by Falkirk Council.
3. Wind Turbine at Muiravonside Park
The objection to this development by Maddiston Community Council has been rejected. Concerns were raised that European rights were not being recognised.
4. Gas Network Upgrade
Falkirk Council have informed the Community Council that work will start on upgrading the gas network in Maddiston at the end of February
5. Road Closure
Public meetings will be held to discuss the proposed closure of the rail bridge in Redding Road. A footbridge will be put in place when the Polmont Bridge is closed in 2015 to allow foot traffic access.
6. Land at Parkhall Drive
No action can be taken regarding the transfer of land at Parkhall Drive to the school until the house building is complete.
7. Fire Station
No news on the closure of the Fire Station but the Community Council would like it to become an area for small business units.
8. Parking at the Pharmacy
Suggestions are needed to help improve the parking situation at the Pharmacy.
9. Parkhall Farm Development
A public exhibition took place 2 months ago to show the plans for the 50 houses in this area. It is hoped that a presentation will be given at the March meeting of the Community Council. The developer is unknown at the moment. Access will be through the Barratt and Redrow estates and Nicolton road will be closed off to traffic.
10. Golf Club
Maddiston Community Council have agreed to work with Polmont Golf Club to try to raise its profile and assist in fundraising events to try to ensure the facility remains open.
11. Paths Network
Falkirk Council have agreed to tarmac the paths and provide benches in the Valley Park. It is hoped that upgrading of the paths will include to Maddiston to Black Braes.
12. Growing Area
A planning application will be submitted to commence this project.
13. War Memorial
Sites are to be looked at to provide a war memorial in the village to commemorate the 100 years since the Great War.
14. Senior Lunch Club
Funding of £8500 has been received to improve the kitchen facilities in the Community Centre before the launch of a senior lunch club.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Big Garden Watch
The local Ranger has organised an event in conjunction with the Community Council to promote the RSPB Big Garden Watch on Sunday 26th January 2014.
2. Scottish Water
A representative of Scottish Water will attend next month’s meeting.
AOCB
None
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 6th February 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NB; Treasurer
SA
APOLOGIES
PC. Gillian Gracie, Cllr. Hughes, Cllr. McLuckie, JM, NS.
December minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
P.C Gillian Gracie passes on apologies for being unable to attend this month’s meeting, due to operational demands. Her absence has been felt however she urges anyone who needs to speak with her to contact her either by telephone on 101 or emailing me – [email protected]
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
- Antisocial Behaviour
- Alcohol and Drugs
- Road Safety
- Community engagement and reassurance
Recorded Crime
Since the last meeting at the start of December 2013. There have been 9 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 7 have been detected.
- Breach of Communication Act x 1
- Assault x 2
- Theft x 1
- Road Traffic x 3
- Breach of the Peace x 1
- Section 38
Anti social behaviour relating to youths has decreased over the festive period. There have been no issues identified at this time.
ASBIT patrols are continuing throughout the Upper Braes Area at weekends, where area’s have been identified as problem spots. There have been no issues over the past month.
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR UPDATE
Thanks go to the 100 people who attended the carol concert held in Maddiston Primary School on 20th December 2013. Thanks also go to Rev Louise St. Clements for conducting the service and helping to create a good community spirit. The Christmas lunch held by the Community Council was attended by 20 members of our older members of the community.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Standing Water at Glendevon Drive
The picket fence surrounding the water has been moved nearer the road. The council has met Greenbelt and await a response from them.
2. Wind Turbine at Whitecraigs Farm
Planning permission has been refused for this construction by Falkirk Council.
3. Wind Turbine at Muiravonside Park
The objection to this development by Maddiston Community Council has been rejected. Concerns were raised that European rights were not being recognised.
4. Gas Network Upgrade
Falkirk Council have informed the Community Council that work will start on upgrading the gas network in Maddiston at the end of February
5. Road Closure
Public meetings will be held to discuss the proposed closure of the rail bridge in Redding Road. A footbridge will be put in place when the Polmont Bridge is closed in 2015 to allow foot traffic access.
6. Land at Parkhall Drive
No action can be taken regarding the transfer of land at Parkhall Drive to the school until the house building is complete.
7. Fire Station
No news on the closure of the Fire Station but the Community Council would like it to become an area for small business units.
8. Parking at the Pharmacy
Suggestions are needed to help improve the parking situation at the Pharmacy.
9. Parkhall Farm Development
A public exhibition took place 2 months ago to show the plans for the 50 houses in this area. It is hoped that a presentation will be given at the March meeting of the Community Council. The developer is unknown at the moment. Access will be through the Barratt and Redrow estates and Nicolton road will be closed off to traffic.
10. Golf Club
Maddiston Community Council have agreed to work with Polmont Golf Club to try to raise its profile and assist in fundraising events to try to ensure the facility remains open.
11. Paths Network
Falkirk Council have agreed to tarmac the paths and provide benches in the Valley Park. It is hoped that upgrading of the paths will include to Maddiston to Black Braes.
12. Growing Area
A planning application will be submitted to commence this project.
13. War Memorial
Sites are to be looked at to provide a war memorial in the village to commemorate the 100 years since the Great War.
14. Senior Lunch Club
Funding of £8500 has been received to improve the kitchen facilities in the Community Centre before the launch of a senior lunch club.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Big Garden Watch
The local Ranger has organised an event in conjunction with the Community Council to promote the RSPB Big Garden Watch on Sunday 26th January 2014.
2. Scottish Water
A representative of Scottish Water will attend next month’s meeting.
AOCB
None
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 6th February 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
February 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 6th February 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
LOC; Co-opted Member
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Hughes
Members of public
APOLOGIES
PC. Gillian Gracie, SA
January minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There was no attendance from the Community Officer again this month, PC Gracie sends further apologies that she is unable to attend due to operational demands. A meeting is being arranged with the local Inspector to discuss the lack of police presence.
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
Recorded Crime
Since the last meeting on 9 January 2014, there have been 16 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 9 have been detected, 6 undetected (with a positive line of enquiry for 3) and 1 has been marked as NO crime.
There has been an increase in the number of house break-ins reported to Police in the Polmont, Wallacestone, Rumford and Brightons area of the Upper Braes. Numerous increased patrols involving, high visibility Patrols, Mounted Branch, Plain Clothes Officers and mobile/foot patrols have been utilized.
A number of the house break-ins have occurred during the day and into the early evening. Security advice is being given to the public to be vigilant and ensure doors and windows are kept locked. Additionally, keeping a light on within the house is also a good deterrent giving persons the illusion that there is someone home.
Over the last month, there has been a slight increase in youth disorder with a small number of incidents being reported to police. Patrols will continue to be carried out to tackle any further issues.
ASBIT patrols are continuing throughout the Upper Braes Area at weekends, where area’s have been identified as problem spots. There has been no issues over the past month.
ACTION PLAN UPDATE
There was a meeting with Frank McChord, the action plan was agreed by the Community Council and will go to the next executive meeting of the Falkirk Council.
JANUARY EVENTS
There were a number of events held in January: the Big Garden Birdwatch was a great success with 20 children getting involved in crafts and making bird feeders. Congratulations to Lesley Sweeney and Ian Warburton for a fantastic afternoon. A further event will be arranged for April with a professional bird ringer.
A Burns lunch was held in Maddiston Community Centre, 40 people attended. Thanks to the community centre volunteers for their hard work.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Meeting with Kenny Gilespie
The Trench – Greenbelt are now prepared to sit down and discuss a resolution. A meeting is being arranged with Kenny Gilespie, Greenbelt and house builders to try and resolve the issue. They are seeking a robust solution rather than a short term fix. There was a request from members of the public that until a solution can be found that the trench is drained regularly.
The new houses being built at Parkhall drive will be allocated to those already in council houses that are waiting to move to a larger/smaller house.
2. Bridge Closure at Redding
A meeting is to be arranged with Falkirk Council and Network Rail to discuss the impact of the closure on surrounding areas. The lack of parking at Polmont station will also be raised because with the electrification of the line it is anticipated that passenger traffic will increase by 25/40%.
3. Golf Club
To help the club there are a number of fund raising events are being organised including Prize Bingo on 27th Feb. The Community Council are also helping the Golf Club arrange golf tuition for juniors. There will be a meeting with Maureen Campbell of FTC and the Golf Club to discuss the possibility of changing the club to half charity, half business. The Golf Club are also considering selling some of the land to be developed for houses.
4. War Memorial
The Community Council are working with Cloybank to put up a War Memorial in the village. It is our intention that it will be erected before August 4th.
David Leask from the local History Group is helping find the names for the soldiers killed in WW1/WW2. Also there has been no update regarding when the memorial wall at the school will be erected, the community council will check with planning for the school regarding this.
5. Footpath Network
Footpaths in Valley Park will be upgraded and tarmacked. Signage is also being worked on to provide routes for local walks around the village.
6. Scottish Water
Scottish Water will now be attending our April meeting.
7. Senior Lunch Club
The kitchen in the Community Centre will be upgraded shortly to allow the centre to provide a seniors lunch club. The club is due to start in April 2014.
8. Growing Area
Planning permission will be sought to establish a growing area in the village. It is hoped that produce grown can be used or sold within the community.
9. Parking at the Pharmacy
The kerb at the pharmacy is being raised to stop cars driving over the pavement outside the pharmacy and shop.
10. Meeting for Muiravonside Park
A meeting has been arranged with Falkirk Community Trust for the 25th Feb.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Valley Park Improvements
A meeting is arranged for 14th April to discuss the upgrading of the park, including new play facilities. Improvements to other parks in the village will also be discussed.
There are also plans to place seats in the parks and other places in the village.
A list of other suggested proposals are required to improve the villages green spaces.
2. Community Centre Development
The community centre is getting too small for the village and struggling to accommodate all the groups that currently use it. The community council will investigate the possibility of acquiring the fire station when it closes to make it a community building providing both business space and space for community groups. The Community Council will be lobbying the local MSP as the asset was transferred from Falkirk Council to the Scottish Executive when the fire services merged.
3. Parkhall Farm Development
The developer will be invited back to a Community Council meeting to discuss proposed development.
4. Dog Fouling
The community council will be working with the Litterzone team to raise awareness and tackle the problem of dog mess in the village.
5. Development Trust
The Community Council raised the idea of setting up a Development Trust company So that they would be able to purchase assets and get funding from a range of sources. Members of the public present were interested in joining.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 6th March 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
LOC; Co-opted Member
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Hughes
Members of public
APOLOGIES
PC. Gillian Gracie, SA
January minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There was no attendance from the Community Officer again this month, PC Gracie sends further apologies that she is unable to attend due to operational demands. A meeting is being arranged with the local Inspector to discuss the lack of police presence.
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
- Antisocial Behaviour
- Alcohol and Drugs
- Road Safety
- Community engagement and reassurance
Recorded Crime
Since the last meeting on 9 January 2014, there have been 16 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 9 have been detected, 6 undetected (with a positive line of enquiry for 3) and 1 has been marked as NO crime.
- Theft x 5
- Breach of the Peace x 1
- Knife Crime x 1
- Road Traffic x 4
- Sexual Offences x 1
- MDA x 2
- House Breaking x 2
There has been an increase in the number of house break-ins reported to Police in the Polmont, Wallacestone, Rumford and Brightons area of the Upper Braes. Numerous increased patrols involving, high visibility Patrols, Mounted Branch, Plain Clothes Officers and mobile/foot patrols have been utilized.
A number of the house break-ins have occurred during the day and into the early evening. Security advice is being given to the public to be vigilant and ensure doors and windows are kept locked. Additionally, keeping a light on within the house is also a good deterrent giving persons the illusion that there is someone home.
Over the last month, there has been a slight increase in youth disorder with a small number of incidents being reported to police. Patrols will continue to be carried out to tackle any further issues.
ASBIT patrols are continuing throughout the Upper Braes Area at weekends, where area’s have been identified as problem spots. There has been no issues over the past month.
ACTION PLAN UPDATE
There was a meeting with Frank McChord, the action plan was agreed by the Community Council and will go to the next executive meeting of the Falkirk Council.
JANUARY EVENTS
There were a number of events held in January: the Big Garden Birdwatch was a great success with 20 children getting involved in crafts and making bird feeders. Congratulations to Lesley Sweeney and Ian Warburton for a fantastic afternoon. A further event will be arranged for April with a professional bird ringer.
A Burns lunch was held in Maddiston Community Centre, 40 people attended. Thanks to the community centre volunteers for their hard work.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Meeting with Kenny Gilespie
The Trench – Greenbelt are now prepared to sit down and discuss a resolution. A meeting is being arranged with Kenny Gilespie, Greenbelt and house builders to try and resolve the issue. They are seeking a robust solution rather than a short term fix. There was a request from members of the public that until a solution can be found that the trench is drained regularly.
The new houses being built at Parkhall drive will be allocated to those already in council houses that are waiting to move to a larger/smaller house.
2. Bridge Closure at Redding
A meeting is to be arranged with Falkirk Council and Network Rail to discuss the impact of the closure on surrounding areas. The lack of parking at Polmont station will also be raised because with the electrification of the line it is anticipated that passenger traffic will increase by 25/40%.
3. Golf Club
To help the club there are a number of fund raising events are being organised including Prize Bingo on 27th Feb. The Community Council are also helping the Golf Club arrange golf tuition for juniors. There will be a meeting with Maureen Campbell of FTC and the Golf Club to discuss the possibility of changing the club to half charity, half business. The Golf Club are also considering selling some of the land to be developed for houses.
4. War Memorial
The Community Council are working with Cloybank to put up a War Memorial in the village. It is our intention that it will be erected before August 4th.
David Leask from the local History Group is helping find the names for the soldiers killed in WW1/WW2. Also there has been no update regarding when the memorial wall at the school will be erected, the community council will check with planning for the school regarding this.
5. Footpath Network
Footpaths in Valley Park will be upgraded and tarmacked. Signage is also being worked on to provide routes for local walks around the village.
6. Scottish Water
Scottish Water will now be attending our April meeting.
7. Senior Lunch Club
The kitchen in the Community Centre will be upgraded shortly to allow the centre to provide a seniors lunch club. The club is due to start in April 2014.
8. Growing Area
Planning permission will be sought to establish a growing area in the village. It is hoped that produce grown can be used or sold within the community.
9. Parking at the Pharmacy
The kerb at the pharmacy is being raised to stop cars driving over the pavement outside the pharmacy and shop.
10. Meeting for Muiravonside Park
A meeting has been arranged with Falkirk Community Trust for the 25th Feb.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Valley Park Improvements
A meeting is arranged for 14th April to discuss the upgrading of the park, including new play facilities. Improvements to other parks in the village will also be discussed.
There are also plans to place seats in the parks and other places in the village.
A list of other suggested proposals are required to improve the villages green spaces.
2. Community Centre Development
The community centre is getting too small for the village and struggling to accommodate all the groups that currently use it. The community council will investigate the possibility of acquiring the fire station when it closes to make it a community building providing both business space and space for community groups. The Community Council will be lobbying the local MSP as the asset was transferred from Falkirk Council to the Scottish Executive when the fire services merged.
3. Parkhall Farm Development
The developer will be invited back to a Community Council meeting to discuss proposed development.
4. Dog Fouling
The community council will be working with the Litterzone team to raise awareness and tackle the problem of dog mess in the village.
5. Development Trust
The Community Council raised the idea of setting up a Development Trust company So that they would be able to purchase assets and get funding from a range of sources. Members of the public present were interested in joining.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 6th March 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
March 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 6th March 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
SA
LOC; Co-opted Member
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Hughes
KM; Network Rail
KMD; Network Rail
GP; Falkirk Council
Members of public
APOLOGIES
PC. Gillian Gracie, MM; Maddiston Parent Council
February minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
Community Officer Update/News Stories:
There was no attendance from the Community Officer again this month, PC Gracie sends further apologies that she is unable to attend due to operational demands.
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
Since the last meeting on 6th February 2014, there have been 7 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 4 have been detected, 3 undetected. This is less than half the recorded crime for the previous month.
ASBIT patrols are continuing throughout the Upper Braes Area at weekends, where area’s have been identified as problem spots. There has been no issues over the past 2 months now.
NETWORK RAIL
There was a presentation by Network Rail on the electrification of the Edinburgh to Glasgow line and road closure at Redding Road cause by installing the new raised bridge.
Maps of diversion routes as well as details of road/rail closures will be posted on the Community Council's Facebook and twitter pages. People can also follow @NetworkRailEGIP to keep up to date.
Further meetings will take place later in the year when timings and details of the Polmont bridge have been decided. We anticipate this closure will have a greater impact on our community than the Redding Road closure.
FEBRUARY EVENTS
1. Muiravonside Park
The Community Council attended a meeting at Muiravonside Country Park to discuss future of the park. A Biodiversity plan is being drawn up and should be completed by the end of April. Funding applications are being put in to improve the park. Maddiston Community Council would like to hold a Summer Fete at Muiravonside later in the year to provide a fun community event and also raise money for Newparks Farm.
2. Dog Fouling
There was a meeting with Hania Smith of the Litterzone to address what can be done about dog fouling in the village and how we can work together to promote the green dog walker. Dog wardens will be in the area and there will be a campaign to work will all the local organisations in the village.
3. Golf Club
The prize bingo held at the Golf Club raised £1000 to help funds. Thanks to everyone that helped and supported the event.
4. Meeting with developers for ParkHall farm site
The developers requested a private meeting with the community council to discuss what we would like to see regarding infrastructure in the village. Also discussed the possibility of a footpath from the proposed development joining onto the existing path network.
5. CVS Funding meeting
Members of the Community Council attended a meeting regarding finding funding for the area.
6. Meeting with Angus McDonald MSP
Member met with Angus McDonald MSP to discuss improving the area and the community centre.
7. Maddiston Memorial
The plans for a memorial in the village is progressing and should be erected in June
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Development Trust
A meeting will be held later this month to discuss the creation of a Development Trust for the village. Several people expressed interest in joining a Development Trust.
2. Work on Footpaths
The Community Council is using money from the Greenspace gain to improve the path network with work currently underway in Valley Park. Falkirk Council are looking for Eco grants to match funding.
3. Planning Application on Growing Area
It is hoped that a planning application will be submitted for the growing area in time for the next season.
4. Action Plan
The action plan has been completed and submitted to Falkirk Council. A summary will be posted to all residents in the village and copies of the full plan will be available from Community Centre and other community buildings.
5. Gas Network
The installation of the gas has now started in the village.
6. Road Repairs
The major pot holes in the village have been identified to be repaired. Pot holes outside the Old Folks Hall need private funding. The community council will look at funding streams to repair the area with a view to having the road adopted by the Council.
7. Trench
The Safe Route to School has now been opened. Barratt and Greenbelt are now meeting with Falkirk Council with a view to finding a resolution. The community council will go back to the Council to find out the result of the meetings.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Bus Shelter Repair
The bus shelter on Main Street, across from the old school has been left without a roof despite it being reported over a year ago. Cllr Hughes and Cllr McLuckie will look into this for us.
2. Suggestion of Blocking off end of Parkhall Drive
Residents have again raised the possibility of blocking off the end of Parkhall drive with a view to making a safe place for children to play.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 3rd April 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
SA
LOC; Co-opted Member
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Hughes
KM; Network Rail
KMD; Network Rail
GP; Falkirk Council
Members of public
APOLOGIES
PC. Gillian Gracie, MM; Maddiston Parent Council
February minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
Community Officer Update/News Stories:
There was no attendance from the Community Officer again this month, PC Gracie sends further apologies that she is unable to attend due to operational demands.
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
- Antisocial Behaviour
- Alcohol and Drugs
- Road Safety
- Community engagement and reassurance
Since the last meeting on 6th February 2014, there have been 7 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 4 have been detected, 3 undetected. This is less than half the recorded crime for the previous month.
- Vandalism x 2
- Road Traffic x 3
- Theft by Housebreaking x 1
- Assault x 1
ASBIT patrols are continuing throughout the Upper Braes Area at weekends, where area’s have been identified as problem spots. There has been no issues over the past 2 months now.
NETWORK RAIL
There was a presentation by Network Rail on the electrification of the Edinburgh to Glasgow line and road closure at Redding Road cause by installing the new raised bridge.
Maps of diversion routes as well as details of road/rail closures will be posted on the Community Council's Facebook and twitter pages. People can also follow @NetworkRailEGIP to keep up to date.
Further meetings will take place later in the year when timings and details of the Polmont bridge have been decided. We anticipate this closure will have a greater impact on our community than the Redding Road closure.
FEBRUARY EVENTS
1. Muiravonside Park
The Community Council attended a meeting at Muiravonside Country Park to discuss future of the park. A Biodiversity plan is being drawn up and should be completed by the end of April. Funding applications are being put in to improve the park. Maddiston Community Council would like to hold a Summer Fete at Muiravonside later in the year to provide a fun community event and also raise money for Newparks Farm.
2. Dog Fouling
There was a meeting with Hania Smith of the Litterzone to address what can be done about dog fouling in the village and how we can work together to promote the green dog walker. Dog wardens will be in the area and there will be a campaign to work will all the local organisations in the village.
3. Golf Club
The prize bingo held at the Golf Club raised £1000 to help funds. Thanks to everyone that helped and supported the event.
4. Meeting with developers for ParkHall farm site
The developers requested a private meeting with the community council to discuss what we would like to see regarding infrastructure in the village. Also discussed the possibility of a footpath from the proposed development joining onto the existing path network.
5. CVS Funding meeting
Members of the Community Council attended a meeting regarding finding funding for the area.
6. Meeting with Angus McDonald MSP
Member met with Angus McDonald MSP to discuss improving the area and the community centre.
7. Maddiston Memorial
The plans for a memorial in the village is progressing and should be erected in June
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Development Trust
A meeting will be held later this month to discuss the creation of a Development Trust for the village. Several people expressed interest in joining a Development Trust.
2. Work on Footpaths
The Community Council is using money from the Greenspace gain to improve the path network with work currently underway in Valley Park. Falkirk Council are looking for Eco grants to match funding.
3. Planning Application on Growing Area
It is hoped that a planning application will be submitted for the growing area in time for the next season.
4. Action Plan
The action plan has been completed and submitted to Falkirk Council. A summary will be posted to all residents in the village and copies of the full plan will be available from Community Centre and other community buildings.
5. Gas Network
The installation of the gas has now started in the village.
6. Road Repairs
The major pot holes in the village have been identified to be repaired. Pot holes outside the Old Folks Hall need private funding. The community council will look at funding streams to repair the area with a view to having the road adopted by the Council.
7. Trench
The Safe Route to School has now been opened. Barratt and Greenbelt are now meeting with Falkirk Council with a view to finding a resolution. The community council will go back to the Council to find out the result of the meetings.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Bus Shelter Repair
The bus shelter on Main Street, across from the old school has been left without a roof despite it being reported over a year ago. Cllr Hughes and Cllr McLuckie will look into this for us.
2. Suggestion of Blocking off end of Parkhall Drive
Residents have again raised the possibility of blocking off the end of Parkhall drive with a view to making a safe place for children to play.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 3rd April 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
April 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 3rd April 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
SA
PC. Gillian Gracie
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
JMK, SS and EMC from Scottish Water
Members of public
APOLOGIES
JM; Secretary, NB; Treasurer, LOC
March minutes agreed.
The Convenor welcomed Cllr Murray back after her absence, and looks forward to briefing her on the progress that the community council has made over the last few months.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
Community Officer Update/News Stories:
PC Gracie apologised for missing previous meetings due to circumstances out of her control. She stressed that if anyone needs to contact her with concerns or information then phone 101 or email and leave her a message so that she can get back to you.
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
Since the last meeting in March, there have been 14 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 7 have been detected, 7 undetected. 6 of the outstanding crimes have ongoing lines of enquiry.
Police are aware there are still issues with the use of motor bikes and quad bikes being used in Maddiston. Additional patrols have been carried out by community officers over the past number of weeks.
ASBIT patrols are continuing throughout the Upper Braes Area at weekends, where area's have been identified as problem spots. There have been no issues over the last month.
SCOTTISH WATER
The community council raised concerns over the ability of the drainage and sewer systems to cope with ongoing house building in the village. Scottish water assured the meeting that any further significant developments would require developers to contribute to any upgrade in pipes. Scottish Water are advised of planning applications by Falkirk Council and would require surveys carried out and models to be drawn up to show a developments impact on the system. This would be at the developers expense.
A resident concerns over the lack of drainage capability covering the fire station and golf club area, this may lead to significant cost to a developer if the land is sold for houses at a future date.
A second resident raised concerns that properties in the Kendishill area of Maddiston have persistent problems with sewage back-flowing into the properties and gardens. Scottish Water has advised that if anyone has any problems with water they should phone the customer helpline and report any issues. If they are unaware of continuing problems in the area then nothing can be done to resolve them.
Scottish Water - 0845 601 8855
MARCH EVENTS
1. Meeting with Development Trust Association Scotland
The Community Council met with members of DTAS to discuss the possibility of establishing a Development Trust in the village. A meeting was held with residents and further meetings with groups will be held in the near future.
2. Meeting with Parks Department of Falkirk Council
There was a very positive meeting with JP from Falkirk Council parks dept where the continuing upgrades to Valley Park were discussed. The tarmac should start to be laid on the new paths on Monday (weather permitting). 3 Benches are waiting to be put into park ares of the village.
3. War Memorial
The war memorial will now be placed on the corner of Vellore Road and Main Street. A dedication ceremony is being planned for summer with attendance from the Salvation Army Band, local cadet corps, the Scottish Minister for veterans and more guests. The lists of those lost in WW1 and WW2 can be found in the community centre to check.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
There has been no further updates on the trench.
2. Gas Network
Falkirk Council are awaiting a response from Scottish Gas Network to find out why work hasn't started and when it will now begin.
3. Bus Shelter on Main St
Still awaiting a response with regards to when the bus shelter across from the old school will be fixed.
4. Redding Road closure
The closure of the bridge at Redding Road is having a great impact on transport in the area. The road calming section near Meadowbank seems to be causing a great deal of congestion with concerns raised by local doctors about not being able to get out to house calls due to stationary traffic. Residents raised concerns about missing doctors appointments because taxi's take so long to get to Maddiston and then down to Polmont.
Concerns about the state of the Polmont Railway bridge were confirmed by Cllr McLuckie and the community council will be seeking information from Network Rail regarding the possibility of earlier time scales for the replacement of the bridge.
5. Growing Area
A planning application for the community growing area (allotments) will be submitted in the next week.
6. Seniors Lunch Club
The seniors lunch club will begin on 25th April in Maddiston Community Centre. If you are over 65 and interested or know someone interested please contact Maddiston Community Centre or the Community Council for more information
7. Action Plan
The action plan should be ready for printing very soon after some concerns raised over wording by the council.
8. Muiravonside Park
Muiravonside park will be running a public consultation in April. More details can be found on the community council Facebook page and we encourage people to visit the park and take part. There will also be a Badger Watch open to residents of Maddiston on 25th April at 8pm. Places are limited but if you are interested please email [email protected] to book a place. We would like to encourage children to come and take part in this wonderful event to see the wildlife on our doorstep.
A second event linked to the Big Garden Bird watch will be happening in early May involving bird ringing and spotting. Places will be limited but you can book a place by emailing us.
AOCB
Rotary Club is putting on a seniors evening in the Inchyra, tickets are free and open to local residents.
Avonbridge and Standburn Community Council sent a letter to Police Scotland regarding issues and lack of community police presence. Maddiston Community Council are in agreement and will be writing a followup letter.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 1st May 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
SA
PC. Gillian Gracie
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
JMK, SS and EMC from Scottish Water
Members of public
APOLOGIES
JM; Secretary, NB; Treasurer, LOC
March minutes agreed.
The Convenor welcomed Cllr Murray back after her absence, and looks forward to briefing her on the progress that the community council has made over the last few months.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
Community Officer Update/News Stories:
PC Gracie apologised for missing previous meetings due to circumstances out of her control. She stressed that if anyone needs to contact her with concerns or information then phone 101 or email and leave her a message so that she can get back to you.
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
- Antisocial Behaviour
- Alcohol and Drugs
- Road Safety
- Community engagement and reassurance
Since the last meeting in March, there have been 14 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 7 have been detected, 7 undetected. 6 of the outstanding crimes have ongoing lines of enquiry.
- Vandalism x 2
- Road Traffic x 3
- Attempted Housebreaking x 1
- Domestic Assault x 1
- Theft x 3
- Misuse of drugs x 1
- Breach of the peace x 3
Police are aware there are still issues with the use of motor bikes and quad bikes being used in Maddiston. Additional patrols have been carried out by community officers over the past number of weeks.
ASBIT patrols are continuing throughout the Upper Braes Area at weekends, where area's have been identified as problem spots. There have been no issues over the last month.
SCOTTISH WATER
The community council raised concerns over the ability of the drainage and sewer systems to cope with ongoing house building in the village. Scottish water assured the meeting that any further significant developments would require developers to contribute to any upgrade in pipes. Scottish Water are advised of planning applications by Falkirk Council and would require surveys carried out and models to be drawn up to show a developments impact on the system. This would be at the developers expense.
A resident concerns over the lack of drainage capability covering the fire station and golf club area, this may lead to significant cost to a developer if the land is sold for houses at a future date.
A second resident raised concerns that properties in the Kendishill area of Maddiston have persistent problems with sewage back-flowing into the properties and gardens. Scottish Water has advised that if anyone has any problems with water they should phone the customer helpline and report any issues. If they are unaware of continuing problems in the area then nothing can be done to resolve them.
Scottish Water - 0845 601 8855
MARCH EVENTS
1. Meeting with Development Trust Association Scotland
The Community Council met with members of DTAS to discuss the possibility of establishing a Development Trust in the village. A meeting was held with residents and further meetings with groups will be held in the near future.
2. Meeting with Parks Department of Falkirk Council
There was a very positive meeting with JP from Falkirk Council parks dept where the continuing upgrades to Valley Park were discussed. The tarmac should start to be laid on the new paths on Monday (weather permitting). 3 Benches are waiting to be put into park ares of the village.
3. War Memorial
The war memorial will now be placed on the corner of Vellore Road and Main Street. A dedication ceremony is being planned for summer with attendance from the Salvation Army Band, local cadet corps, the Scottish Minister for veterans and more guests. The lists of those lost in WW1 and WW2 can be found in the community centre to check.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
There has been no further updates on the trench.
2. Gas Network
Falkirk Council are awaiting a response from Scottish Gas Network to find out why work hasn't started and when it will now begin.
3. Bus Shelter on Main St
Still awaiting a response with regards to when the bus shelter across from the old school will be fixed.
4. Redding Road closure
The closure of the bridge at Redding Road is having a great impact on transport in the area. The road calming section near Meadowbank seems to be causing a great deal of congestion with concerns raised by local doctors about not being able to get out to house calls due to stationary traffic. Residents raised concerns about missing doctors appointments because taxi's take so long to get to Maddiston and then down to Polmont.
Concerns about the state of the Polmont Railway bridge were confirmed by Cllr McLuckie and the community council will be seeking information from Network Rail regarding the possibility of earlier time scales for the replacement of the bridge.
5. Growing Area
A planning application for the community growing area (allotments) will be submitted in the next week.
6. Seniors Lunch Club
The seniors lunch club will begin on 25th April in Maddiston Community Centre. If you are over 65 and interested or know someone interested please contact Maddiston Community Centre or the Community Council for more information
7. Action Plan
The action plan should be ready for printing very soon after some concerns raised over wording by the council.
8. Muiravonside Park
Muiravonside park will be running a public consultation in April. More details can be found on the community council Facebook page and we encourage people to visit the park and take part. There will also be a Badger Watch open to residents of Maddiston on 25th April at 8pm. Places are limited but if you are interested please email [email protected] to book a place. We would like to encourage children to come and take part in this wonderful event to see the wildlife on our doorstep.
A second event linked to the Big Garden Bird watch will be happening in early May involving bird ringing and spotting. Places will be limited but you can book a place by emailing us.
AOCB
Rotary Club is putting on a seniors evening in the Inchyra, tickets are free and open to local residents.
Avonbridge and Standburn Community Council sent a letter to Police Scotland regarding issues and lack of community police presence. Maddiston Community Council are in agreement and will be writing a followup letter.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 1st May 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
May 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 1st May 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
SA
LOC
PC. Gillian Gracie
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Members of public
April minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
Community Officer Update/News Stories:
PC Gracie will no longer be the community officer for Maddiston due to moving to CID. Maddiston Community Council would like to thank her for her presence at our community meetings and her work as community officer. The community council look forward to meeting her replacement.
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
Recorded Crime
Since the last meeting in April, there have been 8 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 3 have been detected, 5 undetected.
APRIL EVENTS
1. Meeting with Falkirk Council regarding greenspace
The Community Council met with JP and MJ regarding footpath upgrades and new play equipment for the paths. Black railings will be installed on the main road to replace the broken wooden fence. New dog bins and litter bins will be placed in the park.
2. Meeting with Development Trust Association
Members of the Community Council met with DTAS to discuss improvements to the area through sourcing funding. There will be a road show in Maddiston Community Centre to present plans for improvements.
3. Badger watch
The Badger watch at Muiravonside Country Park was a great success and was enjoyed all those that attended.
4. Rotary Concert
A coach was arranged to take Seniors to a free concert at the Inchyra Grange. It was a great success and more than 40 people attended from the area.
5. Visit to Action Acton
Members of the Community Council went down to Acton in London to see what a Development Trust can achieve. The Development Trust Association think it would be possible to mirror their work in this area. The Community Council are looking at adopting their ideas into the community.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. War Memorial
Work started on the 30th April on the corner of Vellore Rd and Main Street to install the War Memorial. There will be a Dedication Ceremony on the 21st June. There are too many names for the plaque, with 129 casualties in the First World War alone, so scrolls will be placed in churches and centres and the plaque will have a simple message.
2. Action Plan Publication
The Community Action plan has now been passed by Falkirk Council and now has permission to be published.
3. Bus Shelter on Main St
After a long wait, it has been confirmed that the damaged Bus shelter on Main Street will be replaced in May.
4. Articles of Association
These have now been completed by solicitors and the next stage of forming a Development Trust can proceed.
5. Growing Area
A growing area in the village was raised by people during the consultation for the Community Action Plan. A consultation will take place this month in the Community Centre to show ideas and get residents input about suitable places to put a growing area. The Health Board are keen to encourage this to help with mental and physical health. There was a strong strength of feeling by some residents against allotments in the park area.
Cllr McLuckie said that there has been a commitment for money to be spent in this area and the new local plan states planning gain will be spent in the area.
6. Seniors Lunch Club
The seniors lunch club began on 25th April in Maddiston Community Centre. A number of people attended and it is hoped that the numbers will increase as the project moves forward. The lunch club will meet on the last Friday of every month.
7. Gas Network
Work has started in the village to upgrade the gas network. The hold up was by Scottish Gas Network, Falkirk Council have worked hard to get the project moving forward.
8. Land at Parkhall drive
Cllr McLuckie has spoken with relevant authorities and it may be possible to transfer the land from it's current department within the council to education to allow this land to be used by the school.
9. Stone from the Old School
Concerns were raised by the community council, local history group and school that there was confusion over what was happening with the stones from the old primary school. Cllr McLuckie assured the meeting that if those interested parties can let him know the plan of where the stones are being put it would be sorted as planning dept has already agreed and there are currently stonemasons working on other projects in the village that will be able to undertake this task.
10. MIDAS training
Maddiston Primary School would like to train a trainer in MIDAS training for minibuses as this qualification is required by schools in the area to drive a minibus with school children on it. At present Falkirk Council have no training provision for this course and schools have to train with private companies at a significant cost. The parent council can contribute £400 to this project and feel that it would be a great benefit to have a trainer in the area so help other schools in the area. The Community Council, Parent Council and Community Centre will work together to try and get funding to achieve this.
11. Summer Fete
The Community Council will be looking to organise a summer Fete in conjunction with Muiravonside Country Park. The aim will be to raise the profile of the park and to establish a "Friends of Muiravonside" group that can promote the park and help raise funds to continue to improve the park.
AOCB
1. Speed Signs
Residents have requested '20's plenty' signs on the roads near the school to try and reduce the speed of cars. Residents raised concerns about similar speeding issues around Vellore Road
2. Trench
An email was received from Bernard Whittle on May 1st advising that Greenbelt would be carrying out regular checks on the water levels and proposed that when the area dries out they would clear any accumulated waste. Greenbelt has written to the owners of the eastern piece of land and Barratts requesting talks but has had no response. It has been suggested that the community council write to each of the involved parties to try and move the process forward. The community council will contact the parties involved and will also be raising the issue of the inadequate fencing of the area.
3. Pavements
A resident raised concerns about the poor state of pavements in the area. Cllr McLuckie advised that upgrades on some of the areas are on the agenda and if residents have concerns about specific areas then the approach the Community Council or their Cllrs who can take the matter further.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 5th June 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
SA
LOC
PC. Gillian Gracie
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Members of public
April minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
Community Officer Update/News Stories:
PC Gracie will no longer be the community officer for Maddiston due to moving to CID. Maddiston Community Council would like to thank her for her presence at our community meetings and her work as community officer. The community council look forward to meeting her replacement.
PACT Update:
The Upper Braes Ward focus is:
- Antisocial Behaviour
- Alcohol and Drugs
- Road Safety
- Community engagement and reassurance
Recorded Crime
Since the last meeting in April, there have been 8 recorded crimes in the Maddiston area of which 3 have been detected, 5 undetected.
- Vandalism x 2
- Road Traffic x 2
- Assault x 1
- Theft x 2
- Misuse of drugs x 1
APRIL EVENTS
1. Meeting with Falkirk Council regarding greenspace
The Community Council met with JP and MJ regarding footpath upgrades and new play equipment for the paths. Black railings will be installed on the main road to replace the broken wooden fence. New dog bins and litter bins will be placed in the park.
2. Meeting with Development Trust Association
Members of the Community Council met with DTAS to discuss improvements to the area through sourcing funding. There will be a road show in Maddiston Community Centre to present plans for improvements.
3. Badger watch
The Badger watch at Muiravonside Country Park was a great success and was enjoyed all those that attended.
4. Rotary Concert
A coach was arranged to take Seniors to a free concert at the Inchyra Grange. It was a great success and more than 40 people attended from the area.
5. Visit to Action Acton
Members of the Community Council went down to Acton in London to see what a Development Trust can achieve. The Development Trust Association think it would be possible to mirror their work in this area. The Community Council are looking at adopting their ideas into the community.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. War Memorial
Work started on the 30th April on the corner of Vellore Rd and Main Street to install the War Memorial. There will be a Dedication Ceremony on the 21st June. There are too many names for the plaque, with 129 casualties in the First World War alone, so scrolls will be placed in churches and centres and the plaque will have a simple message.
2. Action Plan Publication
The Community Action plan has now been passed by Falkirk Council and now has permission to be published.
3. Bus Shelter on Main St
After a long wait, it has been confirmed that the damaged Bus shelter on Main Street will be replaced in May.
4. Articles of Association
These have now been completed by solicitors and the next stage of forming a Development Trust can proceed.
5. Growing Area
A growing area in the village was raised by people during the consultation for the Community Action Plan. A consultation will take place this month in the Community Centre to show ideas and get residents input about suitable places to put a growing area. The Health Board are keen to encourage this to help with mental and physical health. There was a strong strength of feeling by some residents against allotments in the park area.
Cllr McLuckie said that there has been a commitment for money to be spent in this area and the new local plan states planning gain will be spent in the area.
6. Seniors Lunch Club
The seniors lunch club began on 25th April in Maddiston Community Centre. A number of people attended and it is hoped that the numbers will increase as the project moves forward. The lunch club will meet on the last Friday of every month.
7. Gas Network
Work has started in the village to upgrade the gas network. The hold up was by Scottish Gas Network, Falkirk Council have worked hard to get the project moving forward.
8. Land at Parkhall drive
Cllr McLuckie has spoken with relevant authorities and it may be possible to transfer the land from it's current department within the council to education to allow this land to be used by the school.
9. Stone from the Old School
Concerns were raised by the community council, local history group and school that there was confusion over what was happening with the stones from the old primary school. Cllr McLuckie assured the meeting that if those interested parties can let him know the plan of where the stones are being put it would be sorted as planning dept has already agreed and there are currently stonemasons working on other projects in the village that will be able to undertake this task.
10. MIDAS training
Maddiston Primary School would like to train a trainer in MIDAS training for minibuses as this qualification is required by schools in the area to drive a minibus with school children on it. At present Falkirk Council have no training provision for this course and schools have to train with private companies at a significant cost. The parent council can contribute £400 to this project and feel that it would be a great benefit to have a trainer in the area so help other schools in the area. The Community Council, Parent Council and Community Centre will work together to try and get funding to achieve this.
11. Summer Fete
The Community Council will be looking to organise a summer Fete in conjunction with Muiravonside Country Park. The aim will be to raise the profile of the park and to establish a "Friends of Muiravonside" group that can promote the park and help raise funds to continue to improve the park.
AOCB
1. Speed Signs
Residents have requested '20's plenty' signs on the roads near the school to try and reduce the speed of cars. Residents raised concerns about similar speeding issues around Vellore Road
2. Trench
An email was received from Bernard Whittle on May 1st advising that Greenbelt would be carrying out regular checks on the water levels and proposed that when the area dries out they would clear any accumulated waste. Greenbelt has written to the owners of the eastern piece of land and Barratts requesting talks but has had no response. It has been suggested that the community council write to each of the involved parties to try and move the process forward. The community council will contact the parties involved and will also be raising the issue of the inadequate fencing of the area.
3. Pavements
A resident raised concerns about the poor state of pavements in the area. Cllr McLuckie advised that upgrades on some of the areas are on the agenda and if residents have concerns about specific areas then the approach the Community Council or their Cllrs who can take the matter further.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 5th June 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
June 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 5th May 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
JP; Estates Development Officer, Falkirk Council
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Members of public
Apologies
NB; Treasurer
SA
LOC
Cllr McLuckie
May minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There was no policing update. The Community Council were informed that there are no longer dedicated community police but instead 4 or 5 to cover an area. The convenor suggested that Brightons Community Council had been given different advice and have a dedicated officer. The community council will look to clarify the situation before the next meeting.
Presentation by JP on Parks and Greenspace
JP gave a break down of the costs of work already taken place and being planned for the greenspace upgrades. To date the footpaths in the park have been completed as well as tree thinning in the park and improvement to the path over the old stone bridge on the path leading to Murray Crescent. New fencing is due to be installed on the main road to replace the old wooden fence in the coming weeks.
Future improvements will be improving the drainage of the welfare football pitch, with plans to put in removable goal posts that would stay during the season and be replaced with 2 sets of 5 aside goal posts during off season to encourage cross play and reduce the wear of the pitch. It was also suggested that perhaps there could be match funding bids put in so that there was money to improve the changing facilities.
A wildflower meadow is planned for the park, Cllr Murray suggested asking the community payback team to help with labour to reduce the costs.
Further paths improvements are planned for the BlackBraes walk by the fire station and the old coach road up by Forgie Crescent. Angus Duncan of Falkirk Council is trying to secure match funding for these projects, having already achieved match funding on the existing park upgrades. This allowed more than £73,000 of work to be carried out at a cost of £16000 to the planning gain money. We are extremely grateful for Angus' hard work in securing these extra funds.
MAY EVENTS
1. Meeting with AS, Falkirk Council Planning Dept
The Community Council met with AS regarding the Fire Station project. We were made aware that the Fire Station belongs to the Scottish Executive but he suggested that ideas for a community building were well thought out.
2. There was one planning Application, this was for a development by Parkhall farm for 34 dwellings. The community council put in an objection on the ground of lack of infrastructure, over capacity at the local school and the impact on the wildlife/biodiversity areas in the village.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. War Memorial
The memorial is awaiting the plaque to be installed before completion. There will be a Dedication Ceremony on the 21st June, this will be attended by guests including MSP Keith Brown, Minister for Veterans, MP Michael Connarty, the Provost and deputy Provost and others. All residents of the village are welcome to attend. The ceremony will begin at 11am.
A meeting is to be arranged with Barratts, who have contacted us and expressed interest in helping to fund a plaque with all the names that will be placed in the community centre.
2. Action Plan Publication
The Community Action plan has now been passed by Falkirk Council and now has permission to be published.
3. Bus Shelter on Main St
The Community Council have been given assurance that the new bus stop for the Main Road is due to be delivered by the end of this week and will be installed next week.
4. Trench
The Community Council have written to Barratts and Greenbelt as suggested by Falkirk Council, asking for a prompt resolution to the issue of the trench.
5. Flooding
A resident has come to us to raise concerns over flooding of Manual Burn caused by SUMPS from new housing estates flowing into the burn. The community council will go to Scottish Water about this issue.
6. Seniors Lunch Club
The lunch club meets on the last Friday of every month at Maddiston Community Cafe in Maddiston Community Centre. Going forward entertainment will be provided once a month for everyone and those over 60 can get a free lunch at the cafe.
7. Gas Network
Work has started in the village to upgrade the gas network and will continue over the next few weeks. We are still waiting on a list of all streets that will be covered.
8. Development Trust
Members had a meeting with the CVS to look at funding opportunities for the trust.
9. Braes Booklet
LS; Falkirk Council Ranger is looking at creating a booklet for the upper braes area. She is seeking the input of the community council and will look at this over the winter months.
AOCB
1. A resident raised concerns about the figures she was given for the school intake, in a letter from her MSP she was advised that the school had space and would be find for capacity for the next 3 years. This conflicts other information given and there is growing concern about the impact of further new house building on the school. There is also concern about the time given to school lunches and the impact that new legislation will have when all P1-P3's get free school meals. The community council will raise this with the parent council on Monday. Also, at the suggestion of a resident, we will put in a FOI request to find out how many people applying for Maddiston School are not getting places.
2. A resident raised the issue of a lack of anything for teens in the village now that the Youth Club is finished. It is suggested that the community centre may try and run a disco but would need volunteers to staff the event. The community council suggested a Forum for teenagers was set up to find out their views and opinions.
3. A resident raised concern about the speed of cars coming along Simpson Drive to and from the Golf Course, also cars not stopping at the bottom of the road when turning out into Simpson Drive. The Community Council advised that residents should report all instances of speeding and antisocial behaviour to the police so that it can be recorded and action taken.
4. Concerns were raised about the appalling bus service in Maddiston. Buses stop at 7pm on a Sunday evening meaning people cannot get home from work in Falkirk. General concerns were raised about the lack of services and costs. The Development Trust would look into a community transport scheme when it is set up which would hopefully cater for the residents of the village and provide low cost transport to the train station, doctors, library and local supermarket.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 3rd July 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
JP; Estates Development Officer, Falkirk Council
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Members of public
Apologies
NB; Treasurer
SA
LOC
Cllr McLuckie
May minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There was no policing update. The Community Council were informed that there are no longer dedicated community police but instead 4 or 5 to cover an area. The convenor suggested that Brightons Community Council had been given different advice and have a dedicated officer. The community council will look to clarify the situation before the next meeting.
Presentation by JP on Parks and Greenspace
JP gave a break down of the costs of work already taken place and being planned for the greenspace upgrades. To date the footpaths in the park have been completed as well as tree thinning in the park and improvement to the path over the old stone bridge on the path leading to Murray Crescent. New fencing is due to be installed on the main road to replace the old wooden fence in the coming weeks.
Future improvements will be improving the drainage of the welfare football pitch, with plans to put in removable goal posts that would stay during the season and be replaced with 2 sets of 5 aside goal posts during off season to encourage cross play and reduce the wear of the pitch. It was also suggested that perhaps there could be match funding bids put in so that there was money to improve the changing facilities.
A wildflower meadow is planned for the park, Cllr Murray suggested asking the community payback team to help with labour to reduce the costs.
Further paths improvements are planned for the BlackBraes walk by the fire station and the old coach road up by Forgie Crescent. Angus Duncan of Falkirk Council is trying to secure match funding for these projects, having already achieved match funding on the existing park upgrades. This allowed more than £73,000 of work to be carried out at a cost of £16000 to the planning gain money. We are extremely grateful for Angus' hard work in securing these extra funds.
MAY EVENTS
1. Meeting with AS, Falkirk Council Planning Dept
The Community Council met with AS regarding the Fire Station project. We were made aware that the Fire Station belongs to the Scottish Executive but he suggested that ideas for a community building were well thought out.
2. There was one planning Application, this was for a development by Parkhall farm for 34 dwellings. The community council put in an objection on the ground of lack of infrastructure, over capacity at the local school and the impact on the wildlife/biodiversity areas in the village.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. War Memorial
The memorial is awaiting the plaque to be installed before completion. There will be a Dedication Ceremony on the 21st June, this will be attended by guests including MSP Keith Brown, Minister for Veterans, MP Michael Connarty, the Provost and deputy Provost and others. All residents of the village are welcome to attend. The ceremony will begin at 11am.
A meeting is to be arranged with Barratts, who have contacted us and expressed interest in helping to fund a plaque with all the names that will be placed in the community centre.
2. Action Plan Publication
The Community Action plan has now been passed by Falkirk Council and now has permission to be published.
3. Bus Shelter on Main St
The Community Council have been given assurance that the new bus stop for the Main Road is due to be delivered by the end of this week and will be installed next week.
4. Trench
The Community Council have written to Barratts and Greenbelt as suggested by Falkirk Council, asking for a prompt resolution to the issue of the trench.
5. Flooding
A resident has come to us to raise concerns over flooding of Manual Burn caused by SUMPS from new housing estates flowing into the burn. The community council will go to Scottish Water about this issue.
6. Seniors Lunch Club
The lunch club meets on the last Friday of every month at Maddiston Community Cafe in Maddiston Community Centre. Going forward entertainment will be provided once a month for everyone and those over 60 can get a free lunch at the cafe.
7. Gas Network
Work has started in the village to upgrade the gas network and will continue over the next few weeks. We are still waiting on a list of all streets that will be covered.
8. Development Trust
Members had a meeting with the CVS to look at funding opportunities for the trust.
9. Braes Booklet
LS; Falkirk Council Ranger is looking at creating a booklet for the upper braes area. She is seeking the input of the community council and will look at this over the winter months.
AOCB
1. A resident raised concerns about the figures she was given for the school intake, in a letter from her MSP she was advised that the school had space and would be find for capacity for the next 3 years. This conflicts other information given and there is growing concern about the impact of further new house building on the school. There is also concern about the time given to school lunches and the impact that new legislation will have when all P1-P3's get free school meals. The community council will raise this with the parent council on Monday. Also, at the suggestion of a resident, we will put in a FOI request to find out how many people applying for Maddiston School are not getting places.
2. A resident raised the issue of a lack of anything for teens in the village now that the Youth Club is finished. It is suggested that the community centre may try and run a disco but would need volunteers to staff the event. The community council suggested a Forum for teenagers was set up to find out their views and opinions.
3. A resident raised concern about the speed of cars coming along Simpson Drive to and from the Golf Course, also cars not stopping at the bottom of the road when turning out into Simpson Drive. The Community Council advised that residents should report all instances of speeding and antisocial behaviour to the police so that it can be recorded and action taken.
4. Concerns were raised about the appalling bus service in Maddiston. Buses stop at 7pm on a Sunday evening meaning people cannot get home from work in Falkirk. General concerns were raised about the lack of services and costs. The Development Trust would look into a community transport scheme when it is set up which would hopefully cater for the residents of the village and provide low cost transport to the train station, doctors, library and local supermarket.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 3rd July 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
July 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 3rd July 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Cllr McLuckie
Members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
June minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There was no policing update. The Chair expressed his disappointment at the lack of community police presence in the village. Cllr McLuckie has raised similar concerns at community council meetings in other Upper Braes areas.
JUNE EVENTS
1. Play facilities
The Community Council met with Mike Joyce regarding new play equipment for Valley Park. After consultation with the public it was agreed that the play facilities would be based on imaginative play. It will now go out to tender. The benches had now been installed in the park with further benches being sought by the Community Council to be placed around the village, especially on the new path networks.
2. Orphaned Land
Members of the Community Council met with JP and HS from Falkirk Council to discuss the possibility of doing something on the land by Millbank Terrace. We are awaiting news of whether the land is able to be claimed by the Litterzone's Orphaned Land project, there seems to be a confusion over the land in question so the CC will go back to HS and JP for clarification.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. War Memorial
The memorial dedication ceremony was a great success with a fantastic turn out. Barratts have come to the Community Council and offered financial help with getting names on a plaque to go in the centre. Concern was raised by the Secretary about the cost as it is charged per letter. The CC will look into the costs and possible funding solutions.
2. Gas Network
The gas network installation is now under way. Private residents will be required to pay £600 connection fee to get gas in to their homes although there is financial help available from energy schemes if certain criteria is met. Residents wishing to get a connection should go onto the British Gas website and request a connection.
3. Washing area in new flats
Concerned residents raised concerns about the placement of the washing areas in the flats on the old school site. The washing areas have been placed on the main road which not only spoils the look of the buildings and Main Street but causes concerns over privacy and also the ability to dry washing there without it getting dirty from the traffic on the Main Road. The CC were informed that nothing would be done about the placement and they washing lines would be left as they currently stand.
4. Turbine
The Community Council have put in an objection to the wind turbine application, main concerns raised by residents is the fear of it becoming a wind farm on the edge of the village with one turbine already standing and another two with planning application. Cllr Murray stated that if the application passes then she will call it to the planning committee.
5. Fire Service Building
A Freedom of Information request has been put into the Fire Station to request detailed plans of building and running costs. A meeting is arranged with SD of Fire Service Scotland regarding the future of the site. Cllr McLuckie suggested taking plans of Fire Station project to MSPs.
6. Police Station
Community Council had considered asking police for space in the unused police station for and office, however there are concerns regarding confidential data currently stored in the station. It was suggested that perhaps space could be sought in the fire station building.
7. Parkhall Drive land
The land currently used by Marshalls as parking space will hopefully be handed over to the school, a decision is imminent.
8. Footpaths
The Community Council will be meeting with AD regarding the path network. It's hoped that there will be extra funding from Sustrans to complete the network, connecting Maddiston, California and Standburn.
A meeting is planned with Falkirk Community Trust to try and establish a path to Muiravonside.
9. Growing Area
FCT would consider a growing area in Muiravonside Park. The Community Council will meet with the trust after the current public consultation to discuss the results. A public consultation about the future of the park will be held between 21st and 27th July in the visitor centre of Muiravonside Park.
10. Trench
It's now been 3 years since this was first raised with little progress. The Community Council have contacted Greenbelt and are happy to work as a liaison between interested parties to find a resolution. It was suggested by JP that this be turned into a feature if an alternative solution cannot be found.
11. 2013/14 Accounts
The accounts for last year were approved at the meeting and will now go to be audited.
12. Health
The Community Council have written to Falkirk Primary Health Care to express concerns about the increasing demand of Meadowbank Clinic due to the number of houses being built in the area.
AOCB
1. Cllr McLuckie raised the question of whether the Community Council would consider using the planning gain funding to help projects such as improvements to the cemetery and new wheelchair suitable play equipment for the Timezone. The CC are happy to consider any such projects that may fall within the restrictions that the CC have when spending the money. It was not thought to be appropriate to fund play equipment in the school for wheelchair use due to the small number of people that would benefit, however the community council are looking at wheelchair accessible play equipment in the Valley Park.
2. Cllr Murray suggested that give the new path networks, perhaps a bike hire scheme could be set up in the village and suggested that we contact BeSpoke to find out more information.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 7th August 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Cllr McLuckie
Members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
June minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There was no policing update. The Chair expressed his disappointment at the lack of community police presence in the village. Cllr McLuckie has raised similar concerns at community council meetings in other Upper Braes areas.
JUNE EVENTS
1. Play facilities
The Community Council met with Mike Joyce regarding new play equipment for Valley Park. After consultation with the public it was agreed that the play facilities would be based on imaginative play. It will now go out to tender. The benches had now been installed in the park with further benches being sought by the Community Council to be placed around the village, especially on the new path networks.
2. Orphaned Land
Members of the Community Council met with JP and HS from Falkirk Council to discuss the possibility of doing something on the land by Millbank Terrace. We are awaiting news of whether the land is able to be claimed by the Litterzone's Orphaned Land project, there seems to be a confusion over the land in question so the CC will go back to HS and JP for clarification.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. War Memorial
The memorial dedication ceremony was a great success with a fantastic turn out. Barratts have come to the Community Council and offered financial help with getting names on a plaque to go in the centre. Concern was raised by the Secretary about the cost as it is charged per letter. The CC will look into the costs and possible funding solutions.
2. Gas Network
The gas network installation is now under way. Private residents will be required to pay £600 connection fee to get gas in to their homes although there is financial help available from energy schemes if certain criteria is met. Residents wishing to get a connection should go onto the British Gas website and request a connection.
3. Washing area in new flats
Concerned residents raised concerns about the placement of the washing areas in the flats on the old school site. The washing areas have been placed on the main road which not only spoils the look of the buildings and Main Street but causes concerns over privacy and also the ability to dry washing there without it getting dirty from the traffic on the Main Road. The CC were informed that nothing would be done about the placement and they washing lines would be left as they currently stand.
4. Turbine
The Community Council have put in an objection to the wind turbine application, main concerns raised by residents is the fear of it becoming a wind farm on the edge of the village with one turbine already standing and another two with planning application. Cllr Murray stated that if the application passes then she will call it to the planning committee.
5. Fire Service Building
A Freedom of Information request has been put into the Fire Station to request detailed plans of building and running costs. A meeting is arranged with SD of Fire Service Scotland regarding the future of the site. Cllr McLuckie suggested taking plans of Fire Station project to MSPs.
6. Police Station
Community Council had considered asking police for space in the unused police station for and office, however there are concerns regarding confidential data currently stored in the station. It was suggested that perhaps space could be sought in the fire station building.
7. Parkhall Drive land
The land currently used by Marshalls as parking space will hopefully be handed over to the school, a decision is imminent.
8. Footpaths
The Community Council will be meeting with AD regarding the path network. It's hoped that there will be extra funding from Sustrans to complete the network, connecting Maddiston, California and Standburn.
A meeting is planned with Falkirk Community Trust to try and establish a path to Muiravonside.
9. Growing Area
FCT would consider a growing area in Muiravonside Park. The Community Council will meet with the trust after the current public consultation to discuss the results. A public consultation about the future of the park will be held between 21st and 27th July in the visitor centre of Muiravonside Park.
10. Trench
It's now been 3 years since this was first raised with little progress. The Community Council have contacted Greenbelt and are happy to work as a liaison between interested parties to find a resolution. It was suggested by JP that this be turned into a feature if an alternative solution cannot be found.
11. 2013/14 Accounts
The accounts for last year were approved at the meeting and will now go to be audited.
12. Health
The Community Council have written to Falkirk Primary Health Care to express concerns about the increasing demand of Meadowbank Clinic due to the number of houses being built in the area.
AOCB
1. Cllr McLuckie raised the question of whether the Community Council would consider using the planning gain funding to help projects such as improvements to the cemetery and new wheelchair suitable play equipment for the Timezone. The CC are happy to consider any such projects that may fall within the restrictions that the CC have when spending the money. It was not thought to be appropriate to fund play equipment in the school for wheelchair use due to the small number of people that would benefit, however the community council are looking at wheelchair accessible play equipment in the Valley Park.
2. Cllr Murray suggested that give the new path networks, perhaps a bike hire scheme could be set up in the village and suggested that we contact BeSpoke to find out more information.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 7th August 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
August 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 7th August 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Cllr McLuckie
Members from Avonbridge and Standburn Community Council
Members from Sheildhill and Calefornia Community Council
Members from Reddingmuirhead and Wallacestone Community Council
Members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Convenor welcomed members from other community councils to the meeting.
July minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
The Chair again expressed his disappointment at the lack of community police presence in the village. The police report sent to us shows over 100 calls were made to the police in the last month which is a huge rise on previous months. It was noted that there have been a spate of attempted break-ins in the village so residents are asked to make sure their houses are secure and lock doors and windows at night.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
There are no further updates regarding progress with the trench. The community council are trying to arrange a meeting with all relevant parties to progress the issue.
2. Turbine
The current application is still awaiting a decision but objections have been submitted from Edinburgh Airport, NATs as well as the community council and residents. Any updates on planning permission will be posted as soon as we have them.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
SEPA have approved the process of human waste at the Craigend Brickwork site. The Community Council have written to SEPA asking for justification of why permission was granted with no consultation to local residents or community councils.
Concerns were raised over water contamination, smells that affect the entire Braes area and health issues caused by airborne pathogens from human waste.
The Community Council will arrange a meeting between Falkirk Council, SEPA, Scottish Water and other Upper Braes Community Councils that are affected by this proposal.
There are concerns regarding the poor track record of the company that own the brick work and Cllr Hughes informed the meeting that there is already a meeting planned later this month to discuss issues regarding issues with another site owned by the same company.
DG from Avonbridge and Standburn Community Council informed the meeting that their community council have been involved in these issues for a number of years and had contacted SEPA asking for soil samples to be taken but had been informed that this must be carried out by Environmental Health at Falkirk Council.
It was that all community councils should combine to ensure these actions are carried out by the relevant authority responsible.
Cllr McLuckie informed the meeting that planning permission will need to be sought for a change of land use and that Falkirk Council have an open Freedom of Information Request out to other councils to see what action has been taken successfully by other councils using existing legislation.
4. Path Network
Match funding has been found for further improvements to the path network. The next upgrades are to cover the start of the Maddiston to Blackbraes route and the path by Forgie Crescent to the Standburn. The Community Council would again like to thank AD for his hard work in finding match funding for these projects.
5. Community Growing Area
The Community Council had a meeting with Falkirk Community Trust, Members from Avonbridge and Standburn Community Council and the rangers at Muiravonside Country Park. The meeting was discussing the new plans for the park which are very positive and need the support of the local community to allow the park to apply for funding to put these plans in place.
The idea of putting a community growing area in the park due to the lack of greenspace in Maddiston was received positively. The Community Council have also applied to the Woodland Trust to ask for 400 wild harvest trees to help create an orchard at the park. Avonbridge and Standburn Community Council will also be applying for a similar pack to create an orchard and wild harvest trail.
The community council will help find funding to improve the play equipment at Muiravonside, especially for the younger children.
A meeting will be arranged to establish a growing society to take growing area plans forward, if people are interested in joining they should contact [email protected] with their contact details.
Given the success of the last badger watch, there will be a second badger watch arranged for the October holidays.
6. Gas Network
The installation is progressing on schedule and all houses should have access to the gas network before winter.
7. A801 Accident
The community council express their sympathies to the families and friends of those involved in the accident on the A801. The community council used this time to raise the fact that this is a high volume road, planning permission was granted to put in two roundabouts on the road when the new houses are built in Whitecross.
Cllr Murray has raised the issue with the road to the Directors of the Council who are currently awaiting the conclusion of the police investigation before responding.
8. Polmont Railway
A planning application has been put in to create a small bridge to carry services across the railway while engineering work is carried out on the main bridge. Concerns were raised about the fact that the lower car park will be used by the engineers which will cause more problems with parking around the station.
Brightons Community Council are raising the issue of congestion caused by people using the railway.
9. Action Plan
The action plan was sent out to every house in the village. The full action plan is available to read at the community centre.
10. Footpaths in the cemetery
Concerns were raised about the state of some of the footpaths in the cemetery, A member of the public also noted that a wall had fallen and trees need trimmed. The community council will look into this.
11. Health Board
The Community Council has written to KON to congratulate her on the clean bill of health for Forth Valley Hospital. Points were also raised regarding impact of further house building on Meadowbank health centre, impact/contingency plans for the railway closure; including parking issues caused by the bridge closure.
Chair raised points about further health care in the village, Cllr McLuckie suggested that as this is a devolved matter that the community council should be seeking help from MSPs.
12. State of roads
Concerns had been raised by residents regarding the state of the roads and the poor repairs of potholes. The community council have been informed that these fills are a temporary measure to fill in the worst of the holes and full resurfacing is scheduled for the coming weeks.
AOCB
It was lovely to see poppies and flowers left at the war memorial on the centenary of the First World War.
A roll of honor is to be created by a calligrapher with the names of the fallen, a copy will be kept in the community centre and the church.
A memorial service and parade will be planned for Remembrance Sunday in November.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 4th September 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
September 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 4th September 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
DG from Standburn and Avonbridge Community Council
SW, CLD Officer
PC Neil Chisholm
8 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr McLuckie
Convenor welcomed members from other community councils to the meeting.
August minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
The chair expressed his thanks to PC Chisholm for attending the meeting and hopes that there will be a continued police presence at future community council meetings.
There were 73 calls logged to the police this month, a drop on the previous month but still much higher than before the summer holidays. These calls included:
Domestic Incidents
Disturbance calls
Road traffic issues
Youths on motorbikes
Thefts
Noise complaints
Missing persons
Other youth related calls.
Of those calls, 14 crime reports were raised. 12 of these were detected including:
4 domestic incidents
Vandalism
Drink Driving
Assault
Breach of the peace
2 minor road traffic offences
2 threatening and abusive behaviour
The two undetected crime reports relate to a theft and vandalisms at the Barratt Homes housing development.
A resident raised concern about cars with very loud exhausts racing about late at night. As with all antisocial behaviour, residents are advised to report it to the 101 number so that it can be recorded and the police can prioritise areas that require a police presence.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
The community council had a meeting with ID of Falkirk Council regarding progressing the trench. The community council are arranging a meeting with all parties concerned to push for a solution.
2. Turbine
There is still no update regarding this application.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
Members of the community council attended a meeting with other community councillors, MSPs, councillors and relevant parties to discuss concerns regarding the processing of human waste at Jawcraig and Craigend. Falkirk Council will be seeking planning permission for a change of use for the Craigend site at which point there will be an opportunity for the public to object. There are petition letters available and it has been suggested that all upper braes community councils should organise petitions to Falkirk Council, SEPA and Scottish Water.
4. Road Closures
Polmont Bridge will be closed from 12.01am on Friday 12th September to 11.59pm on Tuesday 15th September. The Maddiston buses will go straight to Falkirk via Redding Road and to get to Meadowbank surgery will require getting the number 1 service to Laurieston then changing to the number 13 which goes back round though Polmont and passed the Doctors Surgery.
The bridge will be closed from approximately 9 months from January and the community council would like people to let us know of any problems during the 5 day closure so that we can go back to the relevant parties and make sure that solutions are put in place before the longer closure.
The loan and Standburn roads will be closed on Sunday 7th September for the Peddle for Scotland race, people should also expect delays at Bowhouse Roundabout as the cyclists are passing.
5. Community Growing Area
Muiravonside park have offered a plot of land for a community growing area. The community council will be a meeting with the management of the park next week to discuss next steps. Also there will be another Badger Watch arranged for 10th October, those interested should contact the community council.
6. Gas Network
The community council will be going to the Housing Dept of Falkirk Council to find out why residents in private housing are being charged £4700 to get their houses connected to the gas network. It was originally suggested that those in private houses would be charged the same as those in council houses which would be approximately £600.
7. Approval of accounts
The accounts have now been submitted to the relevant authorities.
8. Teen Forum
The community council would like to meet with teenagers in the village to ascertain their wants and needs. Suzanne Wood has said that the community centre will have a new youth worker and is looking at new youth clubs on a Wednesday night, there is also the possibility of looking into getting a portacabin next to the centre as a youth area.
9. Community Garden
Members of the community council are meeting with HS and JP to try and find an area in the village to create a community garden.
10. Allocation of Council Houses
The community council will approach housing to check the conditions for getting the new council houses, after concerns were raised by some residents about people from outside the village getting the houses over those currently in the village.
11. Tackling Sectarianism
There is an open community discussion on Saturday 13th September at 11.15am to 2pm. It will be held in Maddiston Community Centre, all are welcome, tea and coffee will be provided.
12. State of roads
Residents are concerned that there are many side roads in the village that are in desperate need for repair but are not being fixed. The community council will look at taking this up with the relevant department at Falkirk Council to see if at the very least the potholes can be filled in.
13. Bins
A number of residents are having frequent issues with bin collections, either bins not being emptied at all or bins only being half emptied. The community council have asked residents to let them know of problems so that a list can be complied and taken to the relevant department of Falkirk Council.
AOCB
None
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 2nd October 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
DG from Standburn and Avonbridge Community Council
SW, CLD Officer
PC Neil Chisholm
8 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr McLuckie
Convenor welcomed members from other community councils to the meeting.
August minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
The chair expressed his thanks to PC Chisholm for attending the meeting and hopes that there will be a continued police presence at future community council meetings.
There were 73 calls logged to the police this month, a drop on the previous month but still much higher than before the summer holidays. These calls included:
Domestic Incidents
Disturbance calls
Road traffic issues
Youths on motorbikes
Thefts
Noise complaints
Missing persons
Other youth related calls.
Of those calls, 14 crime reports were raised. 12 of these were detected including:
4 domestic incidents
Vandalism
Drink Driving
Assault
Breach of the peace
2 minor road traffic offences
2 threatening and abusive behaviour
The two undetected crime reports relate to a theft and vandalisms at the Barratt Homes housing development.
A resident raised concern about cars with very loud exhausts racing about late at night. As with all antisocial behaviour, residents are advised to report it to the 101 number so that it can be recorded and the police can prioritise areas that require a police presence.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
The community council had a meeting with ID of Falkirk Council regarding progressing the trench. The community council are arranging a meeting with all parties concerned to push for a solution.
2. Turbine
There is still no update regarding this application.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
Members of the community council attended a meeting with other community councillors, MSPs, councillors and relevant parties to discuss concerns regarding the processing of human waste at Jawcraig and Craigend. Falkirk Council will be seeking planning permission for a change of use for the Craigend site at which point there will be an opportunity for the public to object. There are petition letters available and it has been suggested that all upper braes community councils should organise petitions to Falkirk Council, SEPA and Scottish Water.
4. Road Closures
Polmont Bridge will be closed from 12.01am on Friday 12th September to 11.59pm on Tuesday 15th September. The Maddiston buses will go straight to Falkirk via Redding Road and to get to Meadowbank surgery will require getting the number 1 service to Laurieston then changing to the number 13 which goes back round though Polmont and passed the Doctors Surgery.
The bridge will be closed from approximately 9 months from January and the community council would like people to let us know of any problems during the 5 day closure so that we can go back to the relevant parties and make sure that solutions are put in place before the longer closure.
The loan and Standburn roads will be closed on Sunday 7th September for the Peddle for Scotland race, people should also expect delays at Bowhouse Roundabout as the cyclists are passing.
5. Community Growing Area
Muiravonside park have offered a plot of land for a community growing area. The community council will be a meeting with the management of the park next week to discuss next steps. Also there will be another Badger Watch arranged for 10th October, those interested should contact the community council.
6. Gas Network
The community council will be going to the Housing Dept of Falkirk Council to find out why residents in private housing are being charged £4700 to get their houses connected to the gas network. It was originally suggested that those in private houses would be charged the same as those in council houses which would be approximately £600.
7. Approval of accounts
The accounts have now been submitted to the relevant authorities.
8. Teen Forum
The community council would like to meet with teenagers in the village to ascertain their wants and needs. Suzanne Wood has said that the community centre will have a new youth worker and is looking at new youth clubs on a Wednesday night, there is also the possibility of looking into getting a portacabin next to the centre as a youth area.
9. Community Garden
Members of the community council are meeting with HS and JP to try and find an area in the village to create a community garden.
10. Allocation of Council Houses
The community council will approach housing to check the conditions for getting the new council houses, after concerns were raised by some residents about people from outside the village getting the houses over those currently in the village.
11. Tackling Sectarianism
There is an open community discussion on Saturday 13th September at 11.15am to 2pm. It will be held in Maddiston Community Centre, all are welcome, tea and coffee will be provided.
12. State of roads
Residents are concerned that there are many side roads in the village that are in desperate need for repair but are not being fixed. The community council will look at taking this up with the relevant department at Falkirk Council to see if at the very least the potholes can be filled in.
13. Bins
A number of residents are having frequent issues with bin collections, either bins not being emptied at all or bins only being half emptied. The community council have asked residents to let them know of problems so that a list can be complied and taken to the relevant department of Falkirk Council.
AOCB
None
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 2nd October 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting
October 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 2nd October 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Lorna O'Connor
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
RB: Falkirk Waste Strategy Team
PC Graeme McNulty
5 members of public
Apologies
SA
DG from Standburn and Avonbridge Community Council
Cllr McLuckie
Convenor welcomed members from other community councils to the meeting.
September minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Presentation by Robin Baird: Changes To Waste Collection Service
Policing
The chair expressed his thanks to PC McNulty for attending the meeting and hopes that there will be a continued police presence at future community council meetings.
There were 73 calls logged to the police this month, a drop on the previous month.. These calls were:
Domestic Incidents
Disturbance calls
Road traffic issues
Youths on motorbikes
Thefts
Noise complaints
Missing persons
Other youth related calls.
Of those calls, 14 crime reports were raised. 12 of these were detected including:
4 domestic incidents
Vandalism
Drink Driving
Assault
Breach of the peace
2 minor road traffic offences
2 threatening and abusive behaviour
The two undetected crime reports relate to a theft and vandalisms at the Barratt Homes housing development.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
The Community Council had met with with ID of Falkirk Council regarding progressing the issue of the trench. The Community Council are arranging a meeting with all parties concerned to try to find a solution.
2. Turbine
There is still no update regarding this application.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
Members of the Community Council attended a meeting with other Community Councillors, MSPs, Councillors and relevant parties to discuss concerns regarding the processing of human waste at Jawcraig and Craigend. Planning permission will be required for a change of use at the Craigend site at which point there will be an opportunity for the public to object. Information on this matter and petition letters are available in Maddiston Community Centre
4. Community Growing Area
The community growing area in Muiravonside park is progressing and names are being taken for plots. . There will be another Badger Watch arranged for 10th October, those interested should contact the community council.
5. Gas Network
It has been confirmed that SGN will charge around £2000 for the installation of gas from the new gas network into private homes.
6. Valley Park
A meeting was held with JP regarding further improvements of the park. There is to be more thinning of some of the bushes to give better views into the park. Areas of wildflowers will be planted alongside the burn and by the path from Main Street.
The community council have also raised concerns that there have been no further progress on play equipment and have asked that the Cllrs follow this issue up with MJ.
8. Land at Parkhall drive
Correspondence was received from Cllr McLuckie to say that discussions were still ongoing between the Directiors of Education and Housing to see if land of equal value could be traded from other areas to allow the land at Parkhall Drive to be transferred to the school
9. Picktober
The Community Council will be supporting Picktober this year and will be having a litterpick along the canal on Saturday 11th of October. Meeting place is at the carpark by the canal on the A801 at 10am.
10. Seniors Lunch Club
The afternoon tea event was a great success with everyone enjoying themselves greatly. A special thanks to the volunteers who helped make it such a great event. A grandparents club starts on the first Friday of each month in the community centre to provide support and a blether for any grandparents who provide childcare to their grandchildren.
AOCB
There were a number of issues caused by a lack of communication about the road closures for the bike race through Standburn and the Loan. Lessons need to be learned if the event is to return next year.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 6nd November 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Lorna O'Connor
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
RB: Falkirk Waste Strategy Team
PC Graeme McNulty
5 members of public
Apologies
SA
DG from Standburn and Avonbridge Community Council
Cllr McLuckie
Convenor welcomed members from other community councils to the meeting.
September minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Presentation by Robin Baird: Changes To Waste Collection Service
Policing
The chair expressed his thanks to PC McNulty for attending the meeting and hopes that there will be a continued police presence at future community council meetings.
There were 73 calls logged to the police this month, a drop on the previous month.. These calls were:
Domestic Incidents
Disturbance calls
Road traffic issues
Youths on motorbikes
Thefts
Noise complaints
Missing persons
Other youth related calls.
Of those calls, 14 crime reports were raised. 12 of these were detected including:
4 domestic incidents
Vandalism
Drink Driving
Assault
Breach of the peace
2 minor road traffic offences
2 threatening and abusive behaviour
The two undetected crime reports relate to a theft and vandalisms at the Barratt Homes housing development.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
The Community Council had met with with ID of Falkirk Council regarding progressing the issue of the trench. The Community Council are arranging a meeting with all parties concerned to try to find a solution.
2. Turbine
There is still no update regarding this application.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
Members of the Community Council attended a meeting with other Community Councillors, MSPs, Councillors and relevant parties to discuss concerns regarding the processing of human waste at Jawcraig and Craigend. Planning permission will be required for a change of use at the Craigend site at which point there will be an opportunity for the public to object. Information on this matter and petition letters are available in Maddiston Community Centre
4. Community Growing Area
The community growing area in Muiravonside park is progressing and names are being taken for plots. . There will be another Badger Watch arranged for 10th October, those interested should contact the community council.
5. Gas Network
It has been confirmed that SGN will charge around £2000 for the installation of gas from the new gas network into private homes.
6. Valley Park
A meeting was held with JP regarding further improvements of the park. There is to be more thinning of some of the bushes to give better views into the park. Areas of wildflowers will be planted alongside the burn and by the path from Main Street.
The community council have also raised concerns that there have been no further progress on play equipment and have asked that the Cllrs follow this issue up with MJ.
8. Land at Parkhall drive
Correspondence was received from Cllr McLuckie to say that discussions were still ongoing between the Directiors of Education and Housing to see if land of equal value could be traded from other areas to allow the land at Parkhall Drive to be transferred to the school
9. Picktober
The Community Council will be supporting Picktober this year and will be having a litterpick along the canal on Saturday 11th of October. Meeting place is at the carpark by the canal on the A801 at 10am.
10. Seniors Lunch Club
The afternoon tea event was a great success with everyone enjoying themselves greatly. A special thanks to the volunteers who helped make it such a great event. A grandparents club starts on the first Friday of each month in the community centre to provide support and a blether for any grandparents who provide childcare to their grandchildren.
AOCB
There were a number of issues caused by a lack of communication about the road closures for the bike race through Standburn and the Loan. Lessons need to be learned if the event is to return next year.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 6nd November 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
November 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 6nd November 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMt; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Murray
DG from Standburn and Avonbridge Community Council
PC Reid and PC Brown
11 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr Hughes
Convenor welcomed members from other community councils to the meeting.
October minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Presentation by Robin Baird
Policing
There were 73 calls logged to the police this month, These calls included:
Domestic Incidents
Road traffic issues
Youths related calls
Antisocial behaviour complaints
Fireworks calls
Assault
Of those calls, 15 crime reports were raised. 8 of these were detected including:
2 x Assault
Theft
Possession of controlled drugs
Domestic Incident
2 x Road Traffic Offenses
Supply of controlled drugs
7 crime reports are undetected at this time, however enquiry remains ongoing. These relate to a taxi fraud, a theft of motor bike, theft from farm, threatening or abusive behavior x 2, communications act offense and an attempted theft of a motor vehicle.
A resident raised concern about cars with very loud exhausts racing about late at night. As with all antisocial behaviour, residents are advised to report it to the 101 number so that it can be recorded and the police can prioritize areas that require a police presence.
The officers reinforced that community intelligence is extremely important, people with information should call 101 or can email PC Reid on [email protected] . All information is treated confidentially.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
There was a very positive meeting with Barratts and Greenbelt regarding the trench at Glendevon Drive. There will be a follow up meeting next week with those parties as well as representatives from relevant departments from Falkirk Council. Concerns were raised by residents that since the safe route to school open there has been an increase in children playing around the trench and as it is coming into winter and if the trench area freezes then it will be even more attractive and dangerous for children.
2. Turbine
The application for the turbine has been called into planning committee on the 27th November.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
18 letters were sent out to various MPs, MSPs, SEPA etc, some have responded and more have promised to get back within a suitable timescale.
4. Polmont Bridge Closure
The bridge over Polmont Station will close on January 9th 2015 until September 2015. It will be very disruptive to Maddiston residents, affecting access to the health centre and library especially for those that rely on public transport. There is a public meeting to be held in the Greenpark Centre, Polmont however as this will have the largest impact on the upper braes areas, the community council will be asking for Network Rail to attend a public meeting in Maddiston.
5. Gas Network
Concerns have been raised regarding workmanship issues, Cllr Hughes was looking into a complaint from a resident but unfortunately could not attend tonight's meeting to provide an update.
6. Valley Park
There was a meeting with Mike Joyce regarding new play equipment in the park, concerns were raised about tackling the increased level of antisocial behaviour in park before £25k of new equipment was installed. The new play equipment will bring the park up to an extremely high standard.
7. Muiravonside Park
The first Friends of Muiravonside meeting was held and a constitution drawn up. If anyone is interested in knowing more about the Friends of Maddiston, please get in touch.
SB, Park Ranger has asked that we work with the park to try and get a footpath from the village to the park, this would be a fantastic asset and something that the village desperately wants.
The trees for the orchard have now arrived, we are very grateful to woodland trust who provide these trees for free and will be looking for volunteers to help plants the trees in the next few weeks.
8. New Falkirk Council HQ
The consultation process is now open for the proposal to spend £19 million on a new headquarters for Falkirk Council.
9. Remembrance Sunday
There will be a small service at 10.50am on Sunday by the war memorial in Maddiston. We are very grateful to the Salvation Army for holding a service for our village.
10. Christmas Concert
The annual Christmas concert will be held on 19th December at 6.15pm in Maddiston Primary (or outside by the Christmas Tree weather permitting). We welcome back the Salvation Army band and the Polmont Choir who make it a lovely festive treat.
11. Golf Club
The golf club are changing from a LTD company to a Community Trust and will be working to promote youth lessons. They are currently looking to fill a position for a coach.
12. Older Persons Project
The older persons project will be working to promote the Age Concern 'walk in our steps' to highlight the issues faced by older people in the village. A priority for this project will be to push for a crossing at the pharmacy or post office. There will also be consultation with the older people to find out their priorities for the project.
Further to this the Salvation Army would like to promote their lunch club on a Tuesday.
AOCB
1. A resident raised the possibility of some of the land near the footpaths on California Road being used for a car park to open up the Blackbraes route.
2. A resident from Rumford had concerns about a ditch the lies behind the houses being clogged with knotweed. Convenor will attend and see thoses affected. Cllr McLuckie asked for details of properties affected so that a landgrab could be taken to establish the owner of the problem land.
3. A resident also raised the possibility of having allotments on a patch of unused land by Ingram Place.
4. There are a number of community centre activities coming up including :
History Group Slideshow on 21st Dec, Christams fun day on 6th Dec 10am to 4pm and a Christmas Family Ceilidh in the evening 7pm to 11pm. Unaccompanied children will not be permitted at the Ceilidh.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 4th December 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMt; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Murray
DG from Standburn and Avonbridge Community Council
PC Reid and PC Brown
11 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr Hughes
Convenor welcomed members from other community councils to the meeting.
October minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Presentation by Robin Baird
Policing
There were 73 calls logged to the police this month, These calls included:
Domestic Incidents
Road traffic issues
Youths related calls
Antisocial behaviour complaints
Fireworks calls
Assault
Of those calls, 15 crime reports were raised. 8 of these were detected including:
2 x Assault
Theft
Possession of controlled drugs
Domestic Incident
2 x Road Traffic Offenses
Supply of controlled drugs
7 crime reports are undetected at this time, however enquiry remains ongoing. These relate to a taxi fraud, a theft of motor bike, theft from farm, threatening or abusive behavior x 2, communications act offense and an attempted theft of a motor vehicle.
A resident raised concern about cars with very loud exhausts racing about late at night. As with all antisocial behaviour, residents are advised to report it to the 101 number so that it can be recorded and the police can prioritize areas that require a police presence.
The officers reinforced that community intelligence is extremely important, people with information should call 101 or can email PC Reid on [email protected] . All information is treated confidentially.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
There was a very positive meeting with Barratts and Greenbelt regarding the trench at Glendevon Drive. There will be a follow up meeting next week with those parties as well as representatives from relevant departments from Falkirk Council. Concerns were raised by residents that since the safe route to school open there has been an increase in children playing around the trench and as it is coming into winter and if the trench area freezes then it will be even more attractive and dangerous for children.
2. Turbine
The application for the turbine has been called into planning committee on the 27th November.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
18 letters were sent out to various MPs, MSPs, SEPA etc, some have responded and more have promised to get back within a suitable timescale.
4. Polmont Bridge Closure
The bridge over Polmont Station will close on January 9th 2015 until September 2015. It will be very disruptive to Maddiston residents, affecting access to the health centre and library especially for those that rely on public transport. There is a public meeting to be held in the Greenpark Centre, Polmont however as this will have the largest impact on the upper braes areas, the community council will be asking for Network Rail to attend a public meeting in Maddiston.
5. Gas Network
Concerns have been raised regarding workmanship issues, Cllr Hughes was looking into a complaint from a resident but unfortunately could not attend tonight's meeting to provide an update.
6. Valley Park
There was a meeting with Mike Joyce regarding new play equipment in the park, concerns were raised about tackling the increased level of antisocial behaviour in park before £25k of new equipment was installed. The new play equipment will bring the park up to an extremely high standard.
7. Muiravonside Park
The first Friends of Muiravonside meeting was held and a constitution drawn up. If anyone is interested in knowing more about the Friends of Maddiston, please get in touch.
SB, Park Ranger has asked that we work with the park to try and get a footpath from the village to the park, this would be a fantastic asset and something that the village desperately wants.
The trees for the orchard have now arrived, we are very grateful to woodland trust who provide these trees for free and will be looking for volunteers to help plants the trees in the next few weeks.
8. New Falkirk Council HQ
The consultation process is now open for the proposal to spend £19 million on a new headquarters for Falkirk Council.
9. Remembrance Sunday
There will be a small service at 10.50am on Sunday by the war memorial in Maddiston. We are very grateful to the Salvation Army for holding a service for our village.
10. Christmas Concert
The annual Christmas concert will be held on 19th December at 6.15pm in Maddiston Primary (or outside by the Christmas Tree weather permitting). We welcome back the Salvation Army band and the Polmont Choir who make it a lovely festive treat.
11. Golf Club
The golf club are changing from a LTD company to a Community Trust and will be working to promote youth lessons. They are currently looking to fill a position for a coach.
12. Older Persons Project
The older persons project will be working to promote the Age Concern 'walk in our steps' to highlight the issues faced by older people in the village. A priority for this project will be to push for a crossing at the pharmacy or post office. There will also be consultation with the older people to find out their priorities for the project.
Further to this the Salvation Army would like to promote their lunch club on a Tuesday.
AOCB
1. A resident raised the possibility of some of the land near the footpaths on California Road being used for a car park to open up the Blackbraes route.
2. A resident from Rumford had concerns about a ditch the lies behind the houses being clogged with knotweed. Convenor will attend and see thoses affected. Cllr McLuckie asked for details of properties affected so that a landgrab could be taken to establish the owner of the problem land.
3. A resident also raised the possibility of having allotments on a patch of unused land by Ingram Place.
4. There are a number of community centre activities coming up including :
History Group Slideshow on 21st Dec, Christams fun day on 6th Dec 10am to 4pm and a Christmas Family Ceilidh in the evening 7pm to 11pm. Unaccompanied children will not be permitted at the Ceilidh.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 4th December 2014.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
December 2014
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 4th December 2014.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
PC Reid
Guest Speakers from Gladman (SD and GL) and Network Rail (KM and PH)
15 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
DG from Standburn and Avonbridge Community Council
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
November minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Presentation by Gladman
A planning application for 200 - 250 houses at Parkhall Farm will be submitted on Friday 5th December. There was a public consultation held at the end of 2013 and plans were drawn up based on the needs of the village at the time including play facilities and MUGA pitch. After a number of more recent discussions with the Community Council it was decided there was less need for outdoor play and more need for enhanced community facilities such as extending and developing the community centre.
There will be a 4 month consultation after the planning application has been submitted. Details of the plans are available on the planning application and Gladman website and a copy will be provided on disk so that they can be viewed in the community centre.
Convenor thanked GL and SD for their time.
Policing
There were 70 calls logged to the police this month, These calls included:
Alarm Activations
Domestic incidents
Calls relating to drug misuse
Damage to property
Noise complaints
Youth disorder
Disturbances
Road traffic matters
Of those calls, 17 crime reports were raised. 7 of these were detected including:
3 x Domestic Assault
Possession of controlled drugs
Racially aggravated conduct
Breach of peace/vandalism/resist arrest
One incident initially recorded as a crime was investigated and found to be 'no crime'.
Public are reminded that the new drink driving limit comes into force on Friday 5th December, there will be an increase in road traffic patrols over the festive period.
The officer reinforced that community intelligence is extremely important, people with information should call 101 or can email PC Reid on [email protected] . All information is treated confidentially.
Presentation by Network Rail
Polmont Bridge will be closed from 12th January 2015 until the end of October 2015. The diversion route will involved the A801 between Lathallan and Bowhouse roundabouts.
Pedestrian access will continue on the existing bridge until Feb where there will be a bridge for pedestrians which will also hold the services.
The demolition of the bridge will take place on 12th-15th June and new bridge be placed on 19th-22nd June. During this time there will be restricted pedestrian access. The remainder of the time taken is moving the services back to the main bridge before laying the surface.
There will be 3 buses working during the diversion, one to take people straight to Falkirk, one will go too Meadowbank health centre and one return to Maddiston from Meadowbank health centre. As soon as we have confirmation of bus fares and timetables we will post them.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
There was a meeting with the parties involved in the trench. It was agreed that the water must be draining somewhere so dye will be put into the trench to see if it is following a temporary drain put in by Barratt when building the Glendevon estate. In the short term, Falkirk Council have agreed to put a fence up at the safe route to school between Redrow and Barratt estates. The Community Safety team have agreed to patrol this area to make sure there are no children playing in it and the underwater police unit will be going into the school to talk about the dangers of playing near water.
A resident asked if it would be possible to extend this to include nursery children, this is something we will ask the school about.
The community council will continue encourage interested parties to look for a permanent solution to this issue.
2. Turbine
There will be a site visit on Monday 8th December, those people who objected should have received a letter inviting them to attend and raise their objections.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
There was a further meeting with Community Council's from the Falkirk area. There are over 1100 letters of concern from residents from a number of areas, these will be delivered to the town hall next week. If the process moves to Craig End site it will lead to lorries carrying human waste traveling through the village 24 hours a day.
4. Bus Fares
Until Jan 31st 2015, Maddiston will be included in te £5.60 day saver ticket for the Falkirk zone.
5. Playpark
New play equipment has been agreed for the park and it is hoped that it will be installed sometime late spring.
AOCB
1. A resident raised concerns about the parking by the school, people are having their driveways blocked by cars dropping or collecting children from the school. We urge people to park sensibly around the school and will be taking this issue to the school and the police to see what can be done.
2. Concerns were raised that Japanese knotweed is growing behind the Ranch building, the old folks hall are concerned that it will spread to their land as it is difficult and costly to remove.
3. There will be a meeting held on Thursday 11th November at 9.30 to discuss the difficulties faced by older people in the village. Anyone is welcome to attend.
4. The Christmas Concert is at 6.15 on 19th December in the school hall, followed by mince pies and hot drinks in the community centre.
5. Funding is being sought for a footpath to connect Maddiston to Muiravonside Park.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 8th January 2015
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JM; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
PC Reid
Guest Speakers from Gladman (SD and GL) and Network Rail (KM and PH)
15 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
DG from Standburn and Avonbridge Community Council
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
November minutes agreed.
MATTERS ARISING
Presentation by Gladman
A planning application for 200 - 250 houses at Parkhall Farm will be submitted on Friday 5th December. There was a public consultation held at the end of 2013 and plans were drawn up based on the needs of the village at the time including play facilities and MUGA pitch. After a number of more recent discussions with the Community Council it was decided there was less need for outdoor play and more need for enhanced community facilities such as extending and developing the community centre.
There will be a 4 month consultation after the planning application has been submitted. Details of the plans are available on the planning application and Gladman website and a copy will be provided on disk so that they can be viewed in the community centre.
Convenor thanked GL and SD for their time.
Policing
There were 70 calls logged to the police this month, These calls included:
Alarm Activations
Domestic incidents
Calls relating to drug misuse
Damage to property
Noise complaints
Youth disorder
Disturbances
Road traffic matters
Of those calls, 17 crime reports were raised. 7 of these were detected including:
3 x Domestic Assault
Possession of controlled drugs
Racially aggravated conduct
Breach of peace/vandalism/resist arrest
One incident initially recorded as a crime was investigated and found to be 'no crime'.
Public are reminded that the new drink driving limit comes into force on Friday 5th December, there will be an increase in road traffic patrols over the festive period.
The officer reinforced that community intelligence is extremely important, people with information should call 101 or can email PC Reid on [email protected] . All information is treated confidentially.
Presentation by Network Rail
Polmont Bridge will be closed from 12th January 2015 until the end of October 2015. The diversion route will involved the A801 between Lathallan and Bowhouse roundabouts.
Pedestrian access will continue on the existing bridge until Feb where there will be a bridge for pedestrians which will also hold the services.
The demolition of the bridge will take place on 12th-15th June and new bridge be placed on 19th-22nd June. During this time there will be restricted pedestrian access. The remainder of the time taken is moving the services back to the main bridge before laying the surface.
There will be 3 buses working during the diversion, one to take people straight to Falkirk, one will go too Meadowbank health centre and one return to Maddiston from Meadowbank health centre. As soon as we have confirmation of bus fares and timetables we will post them.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
There was a meeting with the parties involved in the trench. It was agreed that the water must be draining somewhere so dye will be put into the trench to see if it is following a temporary drain put in by Barratt when building the Glendevon estate. In the short term, Falkirk Council have agreed to put a fence up at the safe route to school between Redrow and Barratt estates. The Community Safety team have agreed to patrol this area to make sure there are no children playing in it and the underwater police unit will be going into the school to talk about the dangers of playing near water.
A resident asked if it would be possible to extend this to include nursery children, this is something we will ask the school about.
The community council will continue encourage interested parties to look for a permanent solution to this issue.
2. Turbine
There will be a site visit on Monday 8th December, those people who objected should have received a letter inviting them to attend and raise their objections.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
There was a further meeting with Community Council's from the Falkirk area. There are over 1100 letters of concern from residents from a number of areas, these will be delivered to the town hall next week. If the process moves to Craig End site it will lead to lorries carrying human waste traveling through the village 24 hours a day.
4. Bus Fares
Until Jan 31st 2015, Maddiston will be included in te £5.60 day saver ticket for the Falkirk zone.
5. Playpark
New play equipment has been agreed for the park and it is hoped that it will be installed sometime late spring.
AOCB
1. A resident raised concerns about the parking by the school, people are having their driveways blocked by cars dropping or collecting children from the school. We urge people to park sensibly around the school and will be taking this issue to the school and the police to see what can be done.
2. Concerns were raised that Japanese knotweed is growing behind the Ranch building, the old folks hall are concerned that it will spread to their land as it is difficult and costly to remove.
3. There will be a meeting held on Thursday 11th November at 9.30 to discuss the difficulties faced by older people in the village. Anyone is welcome to attend.
4. The Christmas Concert is at 6.15 on 19th December in the school hall, followed by mince pies and hot drinks in the community centre.
5. Funding is being sought for a footpath to connect Maddiston to Muiravonside Park.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 8th January 2015
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting