January 2015
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council
held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 8th January 2015
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
PC Reid
12 members of public
Apologies
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
SA
LOC
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked all those that attended the Christmas carols service last month.
December minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 56 calls logged to the police this month, These calls included:
Domestic incidents
Concerns for persons
Anti-social behaviour
Sudden deaths
Parking complaints
Assualt
Threatening behaviour
Of those calls, 15 crime reports were raised. 11 of these were detected including:
7 x Road Traffic offences
Threatening and abusive behaviour
Juvenile assualt
Supply of controlled drugs
Possession of controlled drugs
PC Reid asked that people be vigilant as houses in new estates are being targeted by thieves trying to steal car keys through letter boxes. People should keep car keys out of sight.
Their have been a number of break ins in the Polmont area targeting jewelery from empty houses. If you are going away for a few nights you should try to take precautions by getting someone to pop round and pull the curtains or have a lights on timers. It was also stressed that people should be very weary about posting information about holidays on social networking sites.
People should notice an increase in foot patrols in the village in the coming months.
A resident raised concerns about speeding and parking problems at Glendevon drive, especially at school pickup times. People are encouraged to report non-emergency concerns to 101 number and give as much detail as possible so that officers can investigate when they are free to do so.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
Falkirk Council have put up a 6 feet fence at the safe route to school between the Redrow and Barratt estates. Also the owner of the 1m strip of land has agreed that any necessary work can be carried out on his land to allow a solution to be put in place. The CC will contact Falkirk Council and Barratt to see if they dye has been put in and the outcome of that test.
The community council will continue to look for a permanent solution to this issue.
2. Turbine
Planning permission for the wind turbine was refused after a site meeting.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
1300 letters from members of local communities were handed in to Falkirk Council. There will be further meetings next week to discuss the next actions. Currently there is new legislation going through the Scottish Parliament regarding spreading of Human Sewage on farm land and the CC will seek to meet with MSP to discuss this issue and its impact on communities.
4. Bus to health centre
Polmont bridge will be closed from 12th January 2015 for 41 weeks. During this time there will be a diverted bus service.
Service 1 will go from Maddsiton to Falkirk via Redding Road
Service 1A will come from Falkirk to Maddiston and then on to Polmont Health Centre via Lathallan Roundabout. This service will be at the school at 40 mins past the hour or 47 mins past at the stance. Please note that it is going the opposite way to normal so make sure to stand at the correct side of the road.
Service 1C will leave meadowbank at 52 mins past the hour and come back to Maddiston via Lathallan Roundabout.
5. Planning Applications outside Local Development Plan
There have been a number of planning applications for houses outside the Local Development Plan. Community Council will continue to strongly object to any that give no benefits to the existing community and will work to ensure that applications that have some benefits have terms written into the planning permission to ensure that planning gain is spent in the village.
The CC will arrange to meet with Falkirk Council planning and education departments to raise concerns and find out plans for the impact of more house building on school capacity and the village.
Residents raised concerns about an application to build a roundabout on the A801 and join it to the roundabout Glendevon drive. The CC were unaware of this application and will look into it.
AOCB
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 5th February 2015
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
PC Reid
12 members of public
Apologies
Cllr McLuckie
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
SA
LOC
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked all those that attended the Christmas carols service last month.
December minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 56 calls logged to the police this month, These calls included:
Domestic incidents
Concerns for persons
Anti-social behaviour
Sudden deaths
Parking complaints
Assualt
Threatening behaviour
Of those calls, 15 crime reports were raised. 11 of these were detected including:
7 x Road Traffic offences
Threatening and abusive behaviour
Juvenile assualt
Supply of controlled drugs
Possession of controlled drugs
PC Reid asked that people be vigilant as houses in new estates are being targeted by thieves trying to steal car keys through letter boxes. People should keep car keys out of sight.
Their have been a number of break ins in the Polmont area targeting jewelery from empty houses. If you are going away for a few nights you should try to take precautions by getting someone to pop round and pull the curtains or have a lights on timers. It was also stressed that people should be very weary about posting information about holidays on social networking sites.
People should notice an increase in foot patrols in the village in the coming months.
A resident raised concerns about speeding and parking problems at Glendevon drive, especially at school pickup times. People are encouraged to report non-emergency concerns to 101 number and give as much detail as possible so that officers can investigate when they are free to do so.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
Falkirk Council have put up a 6 feet fence at the safe route to school between the Redrow and Barratt estates. Also the owner of the 1m strip of land has agreed that any necessary work can be carried out on his land to allow a solution to be put in place. The CC will contact Falkirk Council and Barratt to see if they dye has been put in and the outcome of that test.
The community council will continue to look for a permanent solution to this issue.
2. Turbine
Planning permission for the wind turbine was refused after a site meeting.
3. The Process of Human Waste at Craigend
1300 letters from members of local communities were handed in to Falkirk Council. There will be further meetings next week to discuss the next actions. Currently there is new legislation going through the Scottish Parliament regarding spreading of Human Sewage on farm land and the CC will seek to meet with MSP to discuss this issue and its impact on communities.
4. Bus to health centre
Polmont bridge will be closed from 12th January 2015 for 41 weeks. During this time there will be a diverted bus service.
Service 1 will go from Maddsiton to Falkirk via Redding Road
Service 1A will come from Falkirk to Maddiston and then on to Polmont Health Centre via Lathallan Roundabout. This service will be at the school at 40 mins past the hour or 47 mins past at the stance. Please note that it is going the opposite way to normal so make sure to stand at the correct side of the road.
Service 1C will leave meadowbank at 52 mins past the hour and come back to Maddiston via Lathallan Roundabout.
5. Planning Applications outside Local Development Plan
There have been a number of planning applications for houses outside the Local Development Plan. Community Council will continue to strongly object to any that give no benefits to the existing community and will work to ensure that applications that have some benefits have terms written into the planning permission to ensure that planning gain is spent in the village.
The CC will arrange to meet with Falkirk Council planning and education departments to raise concerns and find out plans for the impact of more house building on school capacity and the village.
Residents raised concerns about an application to build a roundabout on the A801 and join it to the roundabout Glendevon drive. The CC were unaware of this application and will look into it.
AOCB
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 5th February 2015
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
February 2015
Minutes of the meeting of
Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 5th
February 2015
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
DR: Community Safety Officer
6 members of public
Apologies
Cllr McLuckie
JMcD; Secretary
SA
LO
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
January minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 56 calls logged to the police this month,
Of those calls, 14 crime reports were raised. 7 of these were detected including:
2 Failing to stop road accidents
1 Housebreaking with intent
2 Communications offenses
1 Bike theft
1 Threatening Texts
There are ongoing issues of antisocial behaviour involving mini motos or quad bikes. If anyone has any information please call 101 or email PC Reid.
Concerns were raised regarding Nicolton Road. There have been a number of problems caused by an increase in people using this narrow road since the Polmont bridge closure. Cllr Hughes suggested a site visit with various parties including other adjacent community councils to see what problems there area and what could be done.
The new community safety warden for the upper and lower braes addressed the meeting. The main priorities will be litter, dog fouling and youth disorder. If you have any information that may be relevant to the community safety team, especially regarding mini motos or children playing near the trench, you can contact the team on [email protected].
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
The community council will be arranging a further meeting with all parties involved in the trench to continue to push for progress and a permanent solution.
2. Human Waste
The Scottish Parliament are now reviewing the processing and spreading of human waste on farm land. There is a BBC event (The Big Debate) coming to Falkirk soon and it is hoped that this question will be raised.
3. Orphan Land Project
The community council are working with a youth group to come up with ideas for the area next to the shops. Once some ideas have been put forward, the community council will be looking to involve further groups. Keep Scotland Beautiful awarded the community council a grant of £250 for this project.
4. Community Orchard and Community Growing Area
Trees have been planted at Muiravonside Country Park to mark the start of the Community Orchard. The fencing should be going up for the growing area in the next few weeks and the aim is to have plots ready for the late spring. Anyone interested in a plot should contact [email protected].
5. Turbine
A further wind turbine has been proposed near California Road. It is currently at initial planning stage. The community council will keep people informed of any consultations or information days for this project.
6. Update on Planning
The community council met with the planning department at Falkirk Council to discuss a number of issues that have been raised by residents in regard to house building and the possibllity of a link road from the A801 through the Barrat’s estate past the primary school to the main street.
It is clear that developers will continue to target Maddiston as an area of strategic growth for further house building. This was after the news of the collapse of the developer at Whitecross.
7. School
The community council concerns about the demands being placed on the local primary were addressed in a letter from the education dept.
It is expected that Maddiston Primary will become a 3-stream school in the foreseeable future and will need a further 6 classrooms to meet demand. Any expansion of the school will most likely come from an extension due to the costs. Eductation department will look to advise Planning Dept that further house building may have significant risks to capacity at the school.
8. Torphican Bridge
The bridge at the Avon gorge will be closed for 5 weekends from 27th February for repairs and maintenance. Need clarification of the closure times. It was observed that the detour was long and down rather narrow roads
9. Impact of Bridge Closure
As expected, the closure of Polmont Bridge has had a significant adverse effect on the village. The biggest impact felt has been accessing the Medical Clinic. A number of residents have raised concern that an hourly bus is not sufficient for the needs of the village, one person approached the community council to express frustration that it cost £16 to get her sick child to the clinic via taxi as the buses were not regular enough. A further observation was the higher level of traffic in the main street
10. Planning gain old school
The planning gain from the old school has had a significant impact on the village, contributing to projects such as the path networks, benches and new play equipment as well as projects linked with Muiravonside Country Park. The next project is to tackle the poor state of the Welfare football pitch. The community council are working with Falkirk Community Trust to secure funding that would allow proper draining at the park as well as improving the changing areas if the bid is successful. Work also continues in identifying an appropriate path route to the muiravonside park.
AOCB
The convenor thanked those that attended and closed the meeting.
Next meeting Thursday 5th March 2015.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
DR: Community Safety Officer
6 members of public
Apologies
Cllr McLuckie
JMcD; Secretary
SA
LO
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
January minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 56 calls logged to the police this month,
Of those calls, 14 crime reports were raised. 7 of these were detected including:
2 Failing to stop road accidents
1 Housebreaking with intent
2 Communications offenses
1 Bike theft
1 Threatening Texts
There are ongoing issues of antisocial behaviour involving mini motos or quad bikes. If anyone has any information please call 101 or email PC Reid.
Concerns were raised regarding Nicolton Road. There have been a number of problems caused by an increase in people using this narrow road since the Polmont bridge closure. Cllr Hughes suggested a site visit with various parties including other adjacent community councils to see what problems there area and what could be done.
The new community safety warden for the upper and lower braes addressed the meeting. The main priorities will be litter, dog fouling and youth disorder. If you have any information that may be relevant to the community safety team, especially regarding mini motos or children playing near the trench, you can contact the team on [email protected].
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Trench
The community council will be arranging a further meeting with all parties involved in the trench to continue to push for progress and a permanent solution.
2. Human Waste
The Scottish Parliament are now reviewing the processing and spreading of human waste on farm land. There is a BBC event (The Big Debate) coming to Falkirk soon and it is hoped that this question will be raised.
3. Orphan Land Project
The community council are working with a youth group to come up with ideas for the area next to the shops. Once some ideas have been put forward, the community council will be looking to involve further groups. Keep Scotland Beautiful awarded the community council a grant of £250 for this project.
4. Community Orchard and Community Growing Area
Trees have been planted at Muiravonside Country Park to mark the start of the Community Orchard. The fencing should be going up for the growing area in the next few weeks and the aim is to have plots ready for the late spring. Anyone interested in a plot should contact [email protected].
5. Turbine
A further wind turbine has been proposed near California Road. It is currently at initial planning stage. The community council will keep people informed of any consultations or information days for this project.
6. Update on Planning
The community council met with the planning department at Falkirk Council to discuss a number of issues that have been raised by residents in regard to house building and the possibllity of a link road from the A801 through the Barrat’s estate past the primary school to the main street.
It is clear that developers will continue to target Maddiston as an area of strategic growth for further house building. This was after the news of the collapse of the developer at Whitecross.
7. School
The community council concerns about the demands being placed on the local primary were addressed in a letter from the education dept.
It is expected that Maddiston Primary will become a 3-stream school in the foreseeable future and will need a further 6 classrooms to meet demand. Any expansion of the school will most likely come from an extension due to the costs. Eductation department will look to advise Planning Dept that further house building may have significant risks to capacity at the school.
8. Torphican Bridge
The bridge at the Avon gorge will be closed for 5 weekends from 27th February for repairs and maintenance. Need clarification of the closure times. It was observed that the detour was long and down rather narrow roads
9. Impact of Bridge Closure
As expected, the closure of Polmont Bridge has had a significant adverse effect on the village. The biggest impact felt has been accessing the Medical Clinic. A number of residents have raised concern that an hourly bus is not sufficient for the needs of the village, one person approached the community council to express frustration that it cost £16 to get her sick child to the clinic via taxi as the buses were not regular enough. A further observation was the higher level of traffic in the main street
10. Planning gain old school
The planning gain from the old school has had a significant impact on the village, contributing to projects such as the path networks, benches and new play equipment as well as projects linked with Muiravonside Country Park. The next project is to tackle the poor state of the Welfare football pitch. The community council are working with Falkirk Community Trust to secure funding that would allow proper draining at the park as well as improving the changing areas if the bid is successful. Work also continues in identifying an appropriate path route to the muiravonside park.
AOCB
The convenor thanked those that attended and closed the meeting.
Next meeting Thursday 5th March 2015.
March 2015
There was no March meeting held due to not meeting quorum.
April 2015
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 2nd April 2015
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
2 Community Safety Officers
Members of public
Apologies
Cllr McLuckie
JMcD; Secretary
SA
LOC
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
February minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 45 calls logged to the police this month,
Of those calls, 10 crime reports were raised. 6 of these were detected:
There are ongoing issues of antisocial behaviour, especially near the Windsor crescent area. If anyone witnesses or has any information regarding the youths causing the problems please call 101 or email PC Reid.
Concerns were raised regarding continued vandalism of daffodils planted by Falkirk Council on the grass in front of Forgie Crescent. Information was passed onto the police and community safety team who will look into it.
Community Safety officers from Falkirk Council attended and provided a report of their work in the village in April. The main priorities are litter, dog fouling and youth disorder.
During the Easter school holidays the Community Safety Team will be holding an events table within Muiravonside Country Park, everyone is welcome to come and look at what the team do and discuss any antisocial behaviour concerns.
If you have any information that may be relevant to the community safety team, especially regarding mini motos or children playing near the trench, you can contact the team on [email protected].
Full copies of the report can be found in the Community Centre. The Community Council thank the Community Safety team for their continued fight against antisocial behaviour in the village.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Role of the Community Council
After recent comments it was felt that the convenor should reiterate the role of the community council.
The aim of the community council is to ascertain, co-ordinate and express to Falkirk Council and to public authorities, the views of the community which it represents in relation to matters for which those authorities are responsible: To take such action in the interest of the community as appears to it to be expedient and practicable;
To safeguard and promote the best interests of the community and to foster a community spirit;
The Council shall be non-party in politics.
It was raised that the views of people can only be represented if they take the time to get involved with the community council either by attending monthly public meetings, contacting via twitter, facebook or email.
2. Gladman Development
There was a meeting held on Monday 30th March regarding the planning application for the Gladman development. The convenor praised Falkirk Council’s handling of the meeting and noted that there were a number of concerns raised by departments in the council including Roads and Education. It was noted that all comments raised by residents were all those echoed in the Maddiston Community Action Plan. A decision will be made at the council meeting on May 13th.
3. GP Services
The convenor raised concerns that further housebuilding in the Falkirk Council area will have on already stretched medical services. It was noted that only two practices at Meadowbank are taking on new patients. The community council has written to Kathy O’Neil to ask what contingency plans are in place for future increase in population.
4. Parking at school pickup places and family centre
A number of concerned residents have raised concerns about parking at school pickup and dropoff times both at Glendevon Drive and Parkhall drive. Inconsiderate parking is leading to residents being unable to access their driveways and children having to cross between parked parks. Also parents are parking on double yellow lines, grass verges or blocking views of the crossing patrols. We would ask all parents to be aware of where they are parking and as the better weather comes in consider walking to school. This issue has been raised with the police and the community council will seek to raise it with the school and community safety team.
Residents of Forgie Crescent have also raised concerns at inconsiderate parking by those using the Braes Family Centre. Residents are being blocked in or out of their driveways and cars are being damaged. Cllr Murray has contacted the Braes Family centre to ask what action is being taken to reduce this.
A resident also raised problems caused by street parking at Bellevue. Cars turning in from the mini roundabout at Rumford are being left sitting on the roundabout as people are parking on the street all the way to the corner on both sides. We would urge residents to be considerate when parking and ensure that they are leaving enough space before the junction to allow cars to turn in from the roundabout. Cllr Murray raised the possibility of asking Roads Dept to consider double yellow lines at park of the road nearest the junction.
5.Human Waste
The petition raised on behalf of the local community councils can be found online at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/GettingInvolved/Petitions/sewagesludge The closing date is April 15th. Representatives of Standburn and Avonbridge community council have been called to give evidence at the review in to this practice at the Scottish Parliament.
6. Growing Area
The community growing area is starting to take shape with the storage container and fencing due to be completed this month. One the fencing is in and the paths can be put down then the plots can be available to plot holders. It is hoped that the plots will be ready towards the end of May.
7. Spring Clean
This year’s Spring Clean takes place on May 2nd. We are looking at holding a bigger event this year than includes wild flower sowing and other activities in the park. More details to follow.
8. Wind Turbine
An appeal has been raised to the Scottish Executive regarding the 77m wind turbine to the land south of Polmont Golf Course. This planning application was rejected by Falkirk Council and again on appeal. Clllr Hughes has put an objection on behalf of the community siting its proximity to houses as well as other concerns.
9. Community Bus
The Community Council and Development Trust would like to run a small pilot for community transport. A meeting has been arranged to discuss this with the relevant departments of FC and to investigate what is required. The cc will be looking into green energies for this project.
10. Fire Station
There Fire Service is considering moving from a Scotland wide service and returning to regional services. The convenor raised concerns over the continued uncertainty of the Maddiston Site and reiterated the desire for the HQ if it were to close to be turned into community facilities.
11. Knotweed
There is continued concern about the spread of Japanese Knotweed in gardens in Bellevue and Wallacelea. FC are going out to check and hopefully action can be taken before it spreads further. Cllr Hughes also raised concerns that it is at the rear of the Old Folks Hall and the old Ranch.
AOCB
None
The convenor thanked those that attended and closed the meeting.
Due to the General Election on the 7th May, the next meeting will be on Thursday 14th May 2015.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
2 Community Safety Officers
Members of public
Apologies
Cllr McLuckie
JMcD; Secretary
SA
LOC
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
February minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 45 calls logged to the police this month,
Of those calls, 10 crime reports were raised. 6 of these were detected:
There are ongoing issues of antisocial behaviour, especially near the Windsor crescent area. If anyone witnesses or has any information regarding the youths causing the problems please call 101 or email PC Reid.
Concerns were raised regarding continued vandalism of daffodils planted by Falkirk Council on the grass in front of Forgie Crescent. Information was passed onto the police and community safety team who will look into it.
Community Safety officers from Falkirk Council attended and provided a report of their work in the village in April. The main priorities are litter, dog fouling and youth disorder.
During the Easter school holidays the Community Safety Team will be holding an events table within Muiravonside Country Park, everyone is welcome to come and look at what the team do and discuss any antisocial behaviour concerns.
If you have any information that may be relevant to the community safety team, especially regarding mini motos or children playing near the trench, you can contact the team on [email protected].
Full copies of the report can be found in the Community Centre. The Community Council thank the Community Safety team for their continued fight against antisocial behaviour in the village.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Role of the Community Council
After recent comments it was felt that the convenor should reiterate the role of the community council.
The aim of the community council is to ascertain, co-ordinate and express to Falkirk Council and to public authorities, the views of the community which it represents in relation to matters for which those authorities are responsible: To take such action in the interest of the community as appears to it to be expedient and practicable;
To safeguard and promote the best interests of the community and to foster a community spirit;
The Council shall be non-party in politics.
It was raised that the views of people can only be represented if they take the time to get involved with the community council either by attending monthly public meetings, contacting via twitter, facebook or email.
2. Gladman Development
There was a meeting held on Monday 30th March regarding the planning application for the Gladman development. The convenor praised Falkirk Council’s handling of the meeting and noted that there were a number of concerns raised by departments in the council including Roads and Education. It was noted that all comments raised by residents were all those echoed in the Maddiston Community Action Plan. A decision will be made at the council meeting on May 13th.
3. GP Services
The convenor raised concerns that further housebuilding in the Falkirk Council area will have on already stretched medical services. It was noted that only two practices at Meadowbank are taking on new patients. The community council has written to Kathy O’Neil to ask what contingency plans are in place for future increase in population.
4. Parking at school pickup places and family centre
A number of concerned residents have raised concerns about parking at school pickup and dropoff times both at Glendevon Drive and Parkhall drive. Inconsiderate parking is leading to residents being unable to access their driveways and children having to cross between parked parks. Also parents are parking on double yellow lines, grass verges or blocking views of the crossing patrols. We would ask all parents to be aware of where they are parking and as the better weather comes in consider walking to school. This issue has been raised with the police and the community council will seek to raise it with the school and community safety team.
Residents of Forgie Crescent have also raised concerns at inconsiderate parking by those using the Braes Family Centre. Residents are being blocked in or out of their driveways and cars are being damaged. Cllr Murray has contacted the Braes Family centre to ask what action is being taken to reduce this.
A resident also raised problems caused by street parking at Bellevue. Cars turning in from the mini roundabout at Rumford are being left sitting on the roundabout as people are parking on the street all the way to the corner on both sides. We would urge residents to be considerate when parking and ensure that they are leaving enough space before the junction to allow cars to turn in from the roundabout. Cllr Murray raised the possibility of asking Roads Dept to consider double yellow lines at park of the road nearest the junction.
5.Human Waste
The petition raised on behalf of the local community councils can be found online at http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/GettingInvolved/Petitions/sewagesludge The closing date is April 15th. Representatives of Standburn and Avonbridge community council have been called to give evidence at the review in to this practice at the Scottish Parliament.
6. Growing Area
The community growing area is starting to take shape with the storage container and fencing due to be completed this month. One the fencing is in and the paths can be put down then the plots can be available to plot holders. It is hoped that the plots will be ready towards the end of May.
7. Spring Clean
This year’s Spring Clean takes place on May 2nd. We are looking at holding a bigger event this year than includes wild flower sowing and other activities in the park. More details to follow.
8. Wind Turbine
An appeal has been raised to the Scottish Executive regarding the 77m wind turbine to the land south of Polmont Golf Course. This planning application was rejected by Falkirk Council and again on appeal. Clllr Hughes has put an objection on behalf of the community siting its proximity to houses as well as other concerns.
9. Community Bus
The Community Council and Development Trust would like to run a small pilot for community transport. A meeting has been arranged to discuss this with the relevant departments of FC and to investigate what is required. The cc will be looking into green energies for this project.
10. Fire Station
There Fire Service is considering moving from a Scotland wide service and returning to regional services. The convenor raised concerns over the continued uncertainty of the Maddiston Site and reiterated the desire for the HQ if it were to close to be turned into community facilities.
11. Knotweed
There is continued concern about the spread of Japanese Knotweed in gardens in Bellevue and Wallacelea. FC are going out to check and hopefully action can be taken before it spreads further. Cllr Hughes also raised concerns that it is at the rear of the Old Folks Hall and the old Ranch.
AOCB
None
The convenor thanked those that attended and closed the meeting.
Due to the General Election on the 7th May, the next meeting will be on Thursday 14th May 2015.
May 2015
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 14th May 2015
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD; Secretary
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
Cllr McLuckie
PC Reid
4 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
NB; Treasurer
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
April minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 56 calls logged to the police in April.
Of those calls, 20 crime reports were raised. 15 of these were detected:
Road Traffic Offences x 9
Breach of the Peace x 3
Production of a Controlled Drug
Theft of Motor Vehicle
Housebreaking with Intent to Steal
One crime report was investigated and subsequently found not to be a criminal matter.
Four crime reports are undetected at this time, however enquiry remains ongoing. These relate to
Vandalism
Theft of a Motor Cycle
Sexual Communications Offence
Theft of Aluminium
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Korean War
A Korean War veteran approached the community council to ask if it would be possible to remember those killed in the Korean War. The Chair advised that there are plans to lay a wreath at the Maddiston War Memorial on 1st July to coincide with the start Battle of the Somme. It was suggested that a separate wreath should be laid on the same day to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Korean War.
2. Planning Application for Parkhall Farm
The planning application by Gladman for 200 houses on Parkhall Farm has been withdrawn.
3. Health Services
The community council has been in correspondence with NHS Forth Valley to raise concerns regarding health services in the Braes area and the impact of further housebuilding on service. Cllr Murray advised that there had been feedback for the Gladman planning application regarding medical services and that she would follow this up.
It was suggested that the community council seek to clarify the Education Department’s response to further house building as the community council were advised that there was plenty of capacity left within the school in a letter last year however the response to the planning department for the Gladman application was that the school would put “unacceptable pressure on Maddiston Primary School,” and that they would “seek considerable commuted payment towards provision of a new primary school.” (Taken from minutes of Falkirk Council Meeting on 13th May 2015, Agenda item 5, (4.4)).
4. Growing Area
The new Growing Area at Muiravonside Country Park is taking shape, fencing is going up and the ground for the plots is getting cut next week. There will be a meeting arranged for new plot holders in the next couple of weeks.
5. Orphan Land
Falkirk Council have given permission for the community council to work on improving the area next the shops using funds from Keep Scotland Beautiful. The small area will be inspired by designs by the local Youth Club, planters created by students from Braes High and a mosaic designed by pupils of Maddiston Primary School.
6. Path Network
The third path network upgrade is underway on the coach road. As a final part of the new path networks, it’s hoped that funding will be secured to link Muiravonside Country Park with Maddiston via a safe footpath between the Loan and the park.
7. Litter Pick
The annual spring clean took place. As well as collecting 10 bags of litter from the park, wildflower seeds were planted down by the burn. The community safety team are working to help tackle litter in the village by holding ‘Fantastic Friday’ litter picks. The next pick is 10am on Friday 22nd May at Vellore Road, everyone welcome.
8. Fracking
The Community Council attended a meeting on Fracking in Polmont by representatives from INEOS. Although very informative, it was felt that it only represented the pros of fracking. Maddiston community council would like to hold a public meeting with representatives from pro and anti fracking groups to gather all a balanced view.
9. Trench
An email was received just before the meeting from Falkirk Council regarding the trench. FC have undertaken a number of actions to try to manage this problem. They have erected a large fence near the path and put dye into the water to see if the water was draining. FC are happy to meet further and discuss with all parties the next steps required. As of the meeting, there had been no response from Greenbelt or Barratt.
AOCB
1. Resident raised concern over trees being removed and earth work on land near the A801 meant the roundabout was going ahead. It was noted that the planning application for a roundabout into Maddiston from the A801 was still live and no decision had been made.
2. A resident raised concerns about the wind turbine application from the golf club and asked if the community council would continue to object to turbines in the area. The Community Council pointed out that unlike other turbines that brought no benefit to the village, however monies from this turbine would benefit the Golf Club and therefor be an asset to the community.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
The next meeting will be held on the 4th June 2015.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD; Secretary
Cllr Murray
Cllr Hughes
Cllr McLuckie
PC Reid
4 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
NB; Treasurer
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
April minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 56 calls logged to the police in April.
Of those calls, 20 crime reports were raised. 15 of these were detected:
Road Traffic Offences x 9
Breach of the Peace x 3
Production of a Controlled Drug
Theft of Motor Vehicle
Housebreaking with Intent to Steal
One crime report was investigated and subsequently found not to be a criminal matter.
Four crime reports are undetected at this time, however enquiry remains ongoing. These relate to
Vandalism
Theft of a Motor Cycle
Sexual Communications Offence
Theft of Aluminium
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Korean War
A Korean War veteran approached the community council to ask if it would be possible to remember those killed in the Korean War. The Chair advised that there are plans to lay a wreath at the Maddiston War Memorial on 1st July to coincide with the start Battle of the Somme. It was suggested that a separate wreath should be laid on the same day to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Korean War.
2. Planning Application for Parkhall Farm
The planning application by Gladman for 200 houses on Parkhall Farm has been withdrawn.
3. Health Services
The community council has been in correspondence with NHS Forth Valley to raise concerns regarding health services in the Braes area and the impact of further housebuilding on service. Cllr Murray advised that there had been feedback for the Gladman planning application regarding medical services and that she would follow this up.
It was suggested that the community council seek to clarify the Education Department’s response to further house building as the community council were advised that there was plenty of capacity left within the school in a letter last year however the response to the planning department for the Gladman application was that the school would put “unacceptable pressure on Maddiston Primary School,” and that they would “seek considerable commuted payment towards provision of a new primary school.” (Taken from minutes of Falkirk Council Meeting on 13th May 2015, Agenda item 5, (4.4)).
4. Growing Area
The new Growing Area at Muiravonside Country Park is taking shape, fencing is going up and the ground for the plots is getting cut next week. There will be a meeting arranged for new plot holders in the next couple of weeks.
5. Orphan Land
Falkirk Council have given permission for the community council to work on improving the area next the shops using funds from Keep Scotland Beautiful. The small area will be inspired by designs by the local Youth Club, planters created by students from Braes High and a mosaic designed by pupils of Maddiston Primary School.
6. Path Network
The third path network upgrade is underway on the coach road. As a final part of the new path networks, it’s hoped that funding will be secured to link Muiravonside Country Park with Maddiston via a safe footpath between the Loan and the park.
7. Litter Pick
The annual spring clean took place. As well as collecting 10 bags of litter from the park, wildflower seeds were planted down by the burn. The community safety team are working to help tackle litter in the village by holding ‘Fantastic Friday’ litter picks. The next pick is 10am on Friday 22nd May at Vellore Road, everyone welcome.
8. Fracking
The Community Council attended a meeting on Fracking in Polmont by representatives from INEOS. Although very informative, it was felt that it only represented the pros of fracking. Maddiston community council would like to hold a public meeting with representatives from pro and anti fracking groups to gather all a balanced view.
9. Trench
An email was received just before the meeting from Falkirk Council regarding the trench. FC have undertaken a number of actions to try to manage this problem. They have erected a large fence near the path and put dye into the water to see if the water was draining. FC are happy to meet further and discuss with all parties the next steps required. As of the meeting, there had been no response from Greenbelt or Barratt.
AOCB
1. Resident raised concern over trees being removed and earth work on land near the A801 meant the roundabout was going ahead. It was noted that the planning application for a roundabout into Maddiston from the A801 was still live and no decision had been made.
2. A resident raised concerns about the wind turbine application from the golf club and asked if the community council would continue to object to turbines in the area. The Community Council pointed out that unlike other turbines that brought no benefit to the village, however monies from this turbine would benefit the Golf Club and therefor be an asset to the community.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
The next meeting will be held on the 4th June 2015.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
June 2015
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community
Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 4th June 2015
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Murray
Police Officer
LS, Falkirk Council Ranger
JP, Falkirk Council
6 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
JMcD; Secretary
Cllr Hughes
Cllr McLuckie
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
May minutes agreed.
Policing
The convenor re-emphasised his appreciation of police presence at the meetings.
There were 65 calls logged to the police in April.
Of those calls, 20 crime reports were raised. 15 of these were detected:
One crime report was investigated and subsequently found not to be a criminal matter.
LS, Falkirk Council Ranger
LS has been working on a booklet for the Braes to show walks in the area. She prepared a similar one for Airth Parish and was well received. The booklet will contain 8 walks from Westquarter to Standburn and will follow a mining theme. The draft will be forwarded to the community council for comment. If anyone has relevant photographs that could be used please forward them to [email protected].
JP, Falkirk Council
JP spoke about the works that have been undertaken over the last 18 months and the projects still to come including the installation of new play equipment in the park and further biodiversity projects in the village. It is hoped that following the wild flower sowing in May, there will be further opportunities for the community to get involved in the autumn.
The community council are extremely grateful for the support that we have received from FC and FCT regarding the planning gain from the loss of the playing fields. Given the restrictions on only being able to improve green spaces, we have managed to make the money spread to cover a wide range of projects that will benefit the community for many generations to come.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Health Services
At the recent planning meeting the community council requested that the Health Board respond to Falkirk Council to address the concerns of the strain of further house building in the Braes will have on the medical centre and services in the area.
The Chair has arranged a meeting with relevant members of the Forth Valley Health Borad to discuss the issue.
A further issue was raised regarding the abesnce of a health visitor as the previous retired last year. Access to a health visitor in the village once a month was a vaulable and well used service in the community and is something that the village would like to see restarted.
2. Nicholton Road
A letter will be sent to the three councilors regarding the traffic on Nicholton Road. Concerns have been raised to both Maddiston and Brightons community councils about the speed of traffic, high sided vehicles getting stuck at the low bridge and a lack of passing places.
3. Greenwells Development
A new proposal for a development on Greenwells Farm is being put forward for the next LDP.
The overall feeling from the public at the meeting was supportive providing it was in keeping with local area and provided something which would benefit the existing community. The community council wish to hear from residents regarding their views to allow us to give comment on the proposal.
4. Defibrillator
A resident of the area contacted the community council regarding the possibility of getting a defibrillator based in the community. The community council will arrange a meeting to allow NB to give a presentation and demonstration.
5. Growing Area
The first meeting of the new Muiravonside Community Growing Association was held this evening (June 4th). The new tenants will be moving in to their plots in the next week.
6. Roundabout from A801 A meeting will be held on Monday 8th June regarding the proposal to create a roundabout from the A801 into Maddiston.
7. Education
The Chair has written to the Head of Education regarding size of school and plans to deal with intake from further house building in the village.
AOCB
1. Resident raised possibility of a zebra crossing or school crossing patrol on Glendevon Drive.
2. Concerns were raised regarding traffic not stopping for the School Crossing Patrol on the Main Street.
3. The community council has written an objection to the placement of the telecom mast on the main street.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
The next meeting will be held on the Thursday 2nd July
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Murray
Police Officer
LS, Falkirk Council Ranger
JP, Falkirk Council
6 members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
JMcD; Secretary
Cllr Hughes
Cllr McLuckie
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
May minutes agreed.
Policing
The convenor re-emphasised his appreciation of police presence at the meetings.
There were 65 calls logged to the police in April.
Of those calls, 20 crime reports were raised. 15 of these were detected:
One crime report was investigated and subsequently found not to be a criminal matter.
LS, Falkirk Council Ranger
LS has been working on a booklet for the Braes to show walks in the area. She prepared a similar one for Airth Parish and was well received. The booklet will contain 8 walks from Westquarter to Standburn and will follow a mining theme. The draft will be forwarded to the community council for comment. If anyone has relevant photographs that could be used please forward them to [email protected].
JP, Falkirk Council
JP spoke about the works that have been undertaken over the last 18 months and the projects still to come including the installation of new play equipment in the park and further biodiversity projects in the village. It is hoped that following the wild flower sowing in May, there will be further opportunities for the community to get involved in the autumn.
The community council are extremely grateful for the support that we have received from FC and FCT regarding the planning gain from the loss of the playing fields. Given the restrictions on only being able to improve green spaces, we have managed to make the money spread to cover a wide range of projects that will benefit the community for many generations to come.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Health Services
At the recent planning meeting the community council requested that the Health Board respond to Falkirk Council to address the concerns of the strain of further house building in the Braes will have on the medical centre and services in the area.
The Chair has arranged a meeting with relevant members of the Forth Valley Health Borad to discuss the issue.
A further issue was raised regarding the abesnce of a health visitor as the previous retired last year. Access to a health visitor in the village once a month was a vaulable and well used service in the community and is something that the village would like to see restarted.
2. Nicholton Road
A letter will be sent to the three councilors regarding the traffic on Nicholton Road. Concerns have been raised to both Maddiston and Brightons community councils about the speed of traffic, high sided vehicles getting stuck at the low bridge and a lack of passing places.
3. Greenwells Development
A new proposal for a development on Greenwells Farm is being put forward for the next LDP.
The overall feeling from the public at the meeting was supportive providing it was in keeping with local area and provided something which would benefit the existing community. The community council wish to hear from residents regarding their views to allow us to give comment on the proposal.
4. Defibrillator
A resident of the area contacted the community council regarding the possibility of getting a defibrillator based in the community. The community council will arrange a meeting to allow NB to give a presentation and demonstration.
5. Growing Area
The first meeting of the new Muiravonside Community Growing Association was held this evening (June 4th). The new tenants will be moving in to their plots in the next week.
6. Roundabout from A801 A meeting will be held on Monday 8th June regarding the proposal to create a roundabout from the A801 into Maddiston.
7. Education
The Chair has written to the Head of Education regarding size of school and plans to deal with intake from further house building in the village.
AOCB
1. Resident raised possibility of a zebra crossing or school crossing patrol on Glendevon Drive.
2. Concerns were raised regarding traffic not stopping for the School Crossing Patrol on the Main Street.
3. The community council has written an objection to the placement of the telecom mast on the main street.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
The next meeting will be held on the Thursday 2nd July
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
July 2015
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community
Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 2nd July 2015
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Police Officer
Community Safety Officer
Members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr Murray
Cllr McLuckie
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
June minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 37 calls in June which is a large drop from the previous month.
Of those calls, 8 crime reports were raised. 5 of these were detected:
There were very few calls for antisocial behavior despite concerns being raised to the community council but residents. If there are problems with antisocial behavior, it must be reported to the 101 number for the police. If they are not aware of the issues they cannot assign resources to look into it.
Resident raised further concern about speeding between 6am and 10am. Police are aware of these concerns.
The community safety officer advised that there was an increase in reports of dog fouling and fly tipping in the area. Dog fouling is a problem on a lot of routes despite a large number of bins in the area. The community council take this opportunity to ask the dog owners of Maddiston and Rumford to sign up for the Green Dog Walkers and always pick up after their dogs. If you are aware of someone who regularly doesn’t pick up then please report it to the community safety team.
There has been an increase in fly tipping since the council stopped doing free collections, the community council will work to promote the alternative recycling options and ask people to report if they are aware of anyone dumping rubbish.
The community officer was asked about how other areas of Falkirk dealt with youth disorder and whether experiences could be shared. The joint partnership between Community Safety and Police has reduced issues in the village, community safety officer stated that Maddiston is relatively low occurrences of youth disorder compared to other local areas.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Access from A801
The planning application for a link road between the A801 and Maddiston via Glendevon Drive is currently waiting the results of a tree study, road/traffic study and examination offuture road requirements. The chair suggested that a copy of these studies should be made available for the community council and residents to read.
2. Response to Education
The chair advised that any response to Mr Tead should be coordinated between the PTA and CC. A resident raised concerns at the number of children from Maddiston not getting nursery places at Maddiston. Apparently the majority of these are anti-preschool but with lack of playgroup facilities in the area, children are missing out on early year’s places that they are entitled to. It is also leaving families with children at different schools which makes drop-off and pick-ups at school and nursery difficult or impossible and can incur additional costs to families.
The CC will put in a new FOI request to the council to find out how many children did not get places at their preferred nursery this year and compare it to the one from 2014.
3. Human Waste
The Scottish Executive committee met to discuss the issue of the spreading of human waste on farm land in the Braes area. Sepa and Scottish Water were asked to report back before the committee meets again on the apparent shortcomings of their current practices.
Avonbridge and Standburn CC,who have taken the lead on this issue, will address the next CC meeting. Many thanks are due to our neighbouring CC for taking their efforts in this matter.
Scottish Water are no longer suppling Craigend or Jawcraig. However alternative supply arrangements have been made and the smell is still causing concerns among Braes residents as they have been advised that this practice should not cause a smell.
Minutes of the committee meeting can be found on the Scottish Parliament website:
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/CurrentCommittees/29871.aspx
4. Walks in Braes feeback:
There has been a generally positive response to LS’s booklet for Walks in the Braes. The CC are happy to promote anything that encourages people to get out and explore the local area.
5. Play equipment
The installation of play equipment for Valley park has been delayed until after the summer holiday as it requires closing on some of the existing play area. Installation is planned for the week beginning 24th August.
6. Greenwells Development
Feedback has been requested by the developer for the proposal to build houses on the Greenwells farm land, south of California Rd. There was a general note of concern about further house building and the impact that would have on school, roads and community. It was noted that the development was proposing to offer some land to the community however the land has already been marked by FC as unsuitable for building on so would have little use for the community apart from park land. The CC will respond to RS.
7. Accounts
The treasurer presented the accounts for 2014/15 and were duly approved. The accounts will now be submitted for audit/independent inspection.
8. Defibrillator in village
GH is looking into the possibility of putting a defibrillator in the phonebox at the top of Parkhall drive.
AOCB
1. Resident asked about names on war memorial. Cost and number of names is prohibitive however it was suggested that for Armistice Day small wooden crosses with each name could be placed in rows in the grass behind the war memorial.
Chair raised the ongoing issues of Nicolton Rd and the desire to get the speed limit reduced to 30mph.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
The next meeting will be held on the Thursday 6th August
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Police Officer
Community Safety Officer
Members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr Murray
Cllr McLuckie
Convenor welcomed everyone to the meeting.
June minutes agreed.
Policing
There were 37 calls in June which is a large drop from the previous month.
Of those calls, 8 crime reports were raised. 5 of these were detected:
There were very few calls for antisocial behavior despite concerns being raised to the community council but residents. If there are problems with antisocial behavior, it must be reported to the 101 number for the police. If they are not aware of the issues they cannot assign resources to look into it.
Resident raised further concern about speeding between 6am and 10am. Police are aware of these concerns.
The community safety officer advised that there was an increase in reports of dog fouling and fly tipping in the area. Dog fouling is a problem on a lot of routes despite a large number of bins in the area. The community council take this opportunity to ask the dog owners of Maddiston and Rumford to sign up for the Green Dog Walkers and always pick up after their dogs. If you are aware of someone who regularly doesn’t pick up then please report it to the community safety team.
There has been an increase in fly tipping since the council stopped doing free collections, the community council will work to promote the alternative recycling options and ask people to report if they are aware of anyone dumping rubbish.
The community officer was asked about how other areas of Falkirk dealt with youth disorder and whether experiences could be shared. The joint partnership between Community Safety and Police has reduced issues in the village, community safety officer stated that Maddiston is relatively low occurrences of youth disorder compared to other local areas.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES
1. Access from A801
The planning application for a link road between the A801 and Maddiston via Glendevon Drive is currently waiting the results of a tree study, road/traffic study and examination offuture road requirements. The chair suggested that a copy of these studies should be made available for the community council and residents to read.
2. Response to Education
The chair advised that any response to Mr Tead should be coordinated between the PTA and CC. A resident raised concerns at the number of children from Maddiston not getting nursery places at Maddiston. Apparently the majority of these are anti-preschool but with lack of playgroup facilities in the area, children are missing out on early year’s places that they are entitled to. It is also leaving families with children at different schools which makes drop-off and pick-ups at school and nursery difficult or impossible and can incur additional costs to families.
The CC will put in a new FOI request to the council to find out how many children did not get places at their preferred nursery this year and compare it to the one from 2014.
3. Human Waste
The Scottish Executive committee met to discuss the issue of the spreading of human waste on farm land in the Braes area. Sepa and Scottish Water were asked to report back before the committee meets again on the apparent shortcomings of their current practices.
Avonbridge and Standburn CC,who have taken the lead on this issue, will address the next CC meeting. Many thanks are due to our neighbouring CC for taking their efforts in this matter.
Scottish Water are no longer suppling Craigend or Jawcraig. However alternative supply arrangements have been made and the smell is still causing concerns among Braes residents as they have been advised that this practice should not cause a smell.
Minutes of the committee meeting can be found on the Scottish Parliament website:
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/CurrentCommittees/29871.aspx
4. Walks in Braes feeback:
There has been a generally positive response to LS’s booklet for Walks in the Braes. The CC are happy to promote anything that encourages people to get out and explore the local area.
5. Play equipment
The installation of play equipment for Valley park has been delayed until after the summer holiday as it requires closing on some of the existing play area. Installation is planned for the week beginning 24th August.
6. Greenwells Development
Feedback has been requested by the developer for the proposal to build houses on the Greenwells farm land, south of California Rd. There was a general note of concern about further house building and the impact that would have on school, roads and community. It was noted that the development was proposing to offer some land to the community however the land has already been marked by FC as unsuitable for building on so would have little use for the community apart from park land. The CC will respond to RS.
7. Accounts
The treasurer presented the accounts for 2014/15 and were duly approved. The accounts will now be submitted for audit/independent inspection.
8. Defibrillator in village
GH is looking into the possibility of putting a defibrillator in the phonebox at the top of Parkhall drive.
AOCB
1. Resident asked about names on war memorial. Cost and number of names is prohibitive however it was suggested that for Armistice Day small wooden crosses with each name could be placed in rows in the grass behind the war memorial.
Chair raised the ongoing issues of Nicolton Rd and the desire to get the speed limit reduced to 30mph.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
The next meeting will be held on the Thursday 6th August
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
August 2015
Minutes of Community Council meeting 6th August in Maddiston Community Centre
Present: JW: Convenor
NB: Treasurer
JMcD: Secretary
Cllr. John McLuckie
Cllr. Rosie Murray
Cllr. Gordon Hughes
PC Craig Reid
Members of the public
Apologies:
NS ; Vice Convenor
SA
Community safety officer
Police Report:
From 1/7/15 – 31/07/15 there were 49 calls to police logged. Call types included
Dishonety
Disorder
Violence
Youth Disorder
Animal Issues
Domestic Incidents
There were 15 crime reports raised, 11 of these were detected and can be summarised as follows:
Theft
Drugs possession x 3
Breach of The Peace x 3
Breach of Interdict
Road Traffic Offences x 2
Vandalism
One crime report was investigated and marked ‘no crime.’ Three crime reports are undetected at this time. These relate to theft of an industrial item, enquiry is ongoing in relation to this. The other two remaining undetected crime reports relate to Assault and Breach of The Peace. Enquiry has been completed in relation to each of these cases.
Ward Priorities:
Antisocial behaviour
Very few complaints of youth disorder, although there are still reports of youths causing annoyance by using mini-moto’s on public footpaths. Falkirk Council Community Safety Team continue to patrol the area regularly in relation to this.
Vandalism
One case of domestic vandalism reported to police, and one male reported to the Procurator Fiscal in relation to this.
Acquisitive Crime
One incident of statutory theft of electricity (bypassed meter) discovered during execution of a drugs search warrant.
A theft of an industrial item used to monitor sound levels of wind turbines stolen from a farm area.
Speeding/Road Traffic
No reports of speeding during this period and no detection's.
Three minor road traffic offences detected.
Violence / Disorder
One instance of domestic assault reported, investigated and enquiry completed.
Several complaints of breach of the peace/threatening and abusive behaviour. Three persons reported to the Procurator Fiscal in relation to this.
It was suggested that Community Councillors are given training on using hand held radar to record speeds on the Main Street to allow a record to be made of the speed of traffic in the area.
PC Reid suggested Community Councillors go with officers to raise the profile of speeding issues in the area.
Nicholton Road has had no reports of accidents over a period of years however it was suggested that cutting the verges and clearing the foliage around the road signs along with fluorescent marking on the railings at the crossing point would make the road safer.
2.Community Safety Report
Incidents of youth disorder have decreased bou will continue to be monitored.
3.Link Road to A801
Cllr. McLuckie informed the meeting that he has had support for this road and has passed the planning application number onto members of the public to allow letters of support to be sent to the planning department.
It was suggested that another route should be found if another road is necessary. Other large housing estates have only one entrance and questions were asked why this estate requires two access points. The Community Council will continue to follow the process of this planning application
4.Orphan Land Project
The land at the side of the mini market has been levelled to allow decorative stones to be put down The Community Council are at present costing this and are trying to source wood to build planters. Jessica Paterson from Falkirk Council has agreed to judge the school competition for a design of a mosaic to enhance this area further.
5.Muiravonside Park "Apple Day"
To celebrate the establishing of an orchard in the country park there will be an open day on September -------- everyone is welcome.
6.Wind Turbine
Planning permission has been given by the Reporter for the erection of a wind turbine on the land behind James Smith Avenue.
7.Crossing on Main Street
Issues have again been raised regarding pelican crossings on the Main Street at the Post Office or/ and the pharmacy.
AOCB
Cllr. Murray is in negotatiation with the Director of Education regarding the transfer of land at Parkhall Drive to the school.
Present: JW: Convenor
NB: Treasurer
JMcD: Secretary
Cllr. John McLuckie
Cllr. Rosie Murray
Cllr. Gordon Hughes
PC Craig Reid
Members of the public
Apologies:
NS ; Vice Convenor
SA
Community safety officer
Police Report:
From 1/7/15 – 31/07/15 there were 49 calls to police logged. Call types included
Dishonety
Disorder
Violence
Youth Disorder
Animal Issues
Domestic Incidents
There were 15 crime reports raised, 11 of these were detected and can be summarised as follows:
Theft
Drugs possession x 3
Breach of The Peace x 3
Breach of Interdict
Road Traffic Offences x 2
Vandalism
One crime report was investigated and marked ‘no crime.’ Three crime reports are undetected at this time. These relate to theft of an industrial item, enquiry is ongoing in relation to this. The other two remaining undetected crime reports relate to Assault and Breach of The Peace. Enquiry has been completed in relation to each of these cases.
Ward Priorities:
Antisocial behaviour
Very few complaints of youth disorder, although there are still reports of youths causing annoyance by using mini-moto’s on public footpaths. Falkirk Council Community Safety Team continue to patrol the area regularly in relation to this.
Vandalism
One case of domestic vandalism reported to police, and one male reported to the Procurator Fiscal in relation to this.
Acquisitive Crime
One incident of statutory theft of electricity (bypassed meter) discovered during execution of a drugs search warrant.
A theft of an industrial item used to monitor sound levels of wind turbines stolen from a farm area.
Speeding/Road Traffic
No reports of speeding during this period and no detection's.
Three minor road traffic offences detected.
Violence / Disorder
One instance of domestic assault reported, investigated and enquiry completed.
Several complaints of breach of the peace/threatening and abusive behaviour. Three persons reported to the Procurator Fiscal in relation to this.
It was suggested that Community Councillors are given training on using hand held radar to record speeds on the Main Street to allow a record to be made of the speed of traffic in the area.
PC Reid suggested Community Councillors go with officers to raise the profile of speeding issues in the area.
Nicholton Road has had no reports of accidents over a period of years however it was suggested that cutting the verges and clearing the foliage around the road signs along with fluorescent marking on the railings at the crossing point would make the road safer.
2.Community Safety Report
Incidents of youth disorder have decreased bou will continue to be monitored.
3.Link Road to A801
Cllr. McLuckie informed the meeting that he has had support for this road and has passed the planning application number onto members of the public to allow letters of support to be sent to the planning department.
It was suggested that another route should be found if another road is necessary. Other large housing estates have only one entrance and questions were asked why this estate requires two access points. The Community Council will continue to follow the process of this planning application
4.Orphan Land Project
The land at the side of the mini market has been levelled to allow decorative stones to be put down The Community Council are at present costing this and are trying to source wood to build planters. Jessica Paterson from Falkirk Council has agreed to judge the school competition for a design of a mosaic to enhance this area further.
5.Muiravonside Park "Apple Day"
To celebrate the establishing of an orchard in the country park there will be an open day on September -------- everyone is welcome.
6.Wind Turbine
Planning permission has been given by the Reporter for the erection of a wind turbine on the land behind James Smith Avenue.
7.Crossing on Main Street
Issues have again been raised regarding pelican crossings on the Main Street at the Post Office or/ and the pharmacy.
AOCB
Cllr. Murray is in negotatiation with the Director of Education regarding the transfer of land at Parkhall Drive to the school.
September 2015
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 3rd September 2015.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Members of public
Apologies
JMcD; Secretary
SA
LOC
Cllr McLuckie
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There were 80 calls to police in August. Call types included
Domestic Incidents
Animals on the road
Neighbour disputes
Assaults
Sudden Deaths
Road Traffic Matters
There were 22 crimes reports raised, 14 detected and 8 undetected at this time.
Community Safety
So far the community safety team has significantly reduced the antisocial behaviour outside the Chilli Cottage. There have been no further reports of youths drinking on top of the golf club roof.
Currently the team are monitoring a communal close for drug use and dealing with dog fouling issues. Concerns were raised by community safety team about youths drinking in the Valley Park. Community Council enquire about having plants
The issue of quad bikes and mini-motos was raised by the community safety team and their concerns were raised about the behaviour of youths on bikes driving at high speed on paths and in park without care for the safety of others. It was suggested by a resident that if there could be a place such as a dirt bike track created it would allow them somewhere to go without causing a disturbance to the community and would be easier to police if they were in a designated area.
Outstanding Issues
1. Orphan Land Project
The piece of land by the main shops will be completed next year due to confusion regarding land ownership, which has now been sorted out but due to time restrictions on the Keep Scotland Beautiful grant money it was necessary to prioritise the raised bed area at the corner of California Road. As part of this project, the community council ran a competition for the pupils of Maddiston Primary to create wildlife designs that will be turned into mosaics for the side of the bed. The winner from P4-P7 age category was Matthew Cummings and from the P1-P3 category was Ellie Dickson. A community event will be held in the near future to invite all ages to come and help create the mosaic stepping stones for the project.
2. Nicholton Road
Cllr Hughes held a meeting regarding concerns about Nicholton Road. It was noted by the chair that those with the most vocal concerns about the use of the road belonged to Brightons Community Council area. Maddiston Community Council will continue to raise concerns over lighting and visibility of the safe route to school that crosses over the road however other concerns from Brightons residents should be directed to Brightons Community Council.
Cllr Hughes advised that he is meeting with the Safer Routes to School group to gather support for making the crossing point more visible. A walk-about with Estates Dept of Falkirk Council will also be arranged to see about need to look at verges, over hanging trees and passing places.
3. A801 Distributor Road
The chair contacted Planning Dept of Falkirk Council to ask for the number of letters of support for this application. It was noted that there was 1 letter of support and over 80 letters of rejection. Concerns were raised that this road will lead to the opportunity for up to 1000 more houses in Maddiston East which would put a huge strain on a village already struggling to cope with the population increase as well as pressure on services in the Braes such as the clinic.
4. Community Health
The community council will meet with NHS Forth Valley to discuss the opportunities to continue with a baby clinic and establish an older person’s clinic in the village.
5. Local Development Plan
The consultation for the next Falkirk Council Development Plan will start shortly. The community council will be looking to make sure that infrastructure within Maddiston is provided if there is to be any further house building.
6. Maddiston Primary
The community council would like to congratulate the school on receiving a glowing report from the recent inspection. A copy of the report can be found below:
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/Images/MaddistonPSNCIns250815_tcm4-867558.pdf
After concerns were raised by some residents about not getting a place at the nursery, a Freedom of Information request was sent to Falkirk Council to see how many children were offered alternative places. The request suggested no pupils this year or last year were offered alternative places and all children who requested a place at Maddiston got a place. The community council will be questioning this response as there have been a number of anti-preschool children over the last 2 years offered places at a variety of nurseries due to there being no places at Maddiston.
AOCB
1. Condition of roads
A resident raised concerns about the state of roads not only in Maddiston but Falkirk in general. It was noted that the railway bridge closure in Polmont has seen an increase in traffic through Maddiston which has seen more potholes created in the road. It is hoped that when the bridge re-opens that the council will look at repairing the damage caused by the influx in traffic through the village.
2. Falkirk Council’s plans for new building
A resident also raised concerns related to an article in the Falkirk Herald about the need to spend £21 million on a new HQ where money could be better spent.
The chair noted that 50% of the council’s budget is ring-fenced for education and whether the savings from the new HQ of around £200,000 was worth the money being spent.
It was noted by the vice chair that the money for this project is not coming from the Falkirk Council budgets so could not be spent on other projects and the aim to create on HQ that will be owned by Falkirk Council to save money on renting a number of properties throughout the Falkirk area.
Further information on the HQ proposal can be found below.
http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/places/general-offices/municipal-buildings/docs/New%20Headquarters%20Project%20presentation.pdf?v=201505131528
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 1st October 2015.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr Murray
Members of public
Apologies
JMcD; Secretary
SA
LOC
Cllr McLuckie
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There were 80 calls to police in August. Call types included
Domestic Incidents
Animals on the road
Neighbour disputes
Assaults
Sudden Deaths
Road Traffic Matters
There were 22 crimes reports raised, 14 detected and 8 undetected at this time.
Community Safety
So far the community safety team has significantly reduced the antisocial behaviour outside the Chilli Cottage. There have been no further reports of youths drinking on top of the golf club roof.
Currently the team are monitoring a communal close for drug use and dealing with dog fouling issues. Concerns were raised by community safety team about youths drinking in the Valley Park. Community Council enquire about having plants
The issue of quad bikes and mini-motos was raised by the community safety team and their concerns were raised about the behaviour of youths on bikes driving at high speed on paths and in park without care for the safety of others. It was suggested by a resident that if there could be a place such as a dirt bike track created it would allow them somewhere to go without causing a disturbance to the community and would be easier to police if they were in a designated area.
Outstanding Issues
1. Orphan Land Project
The piece of land by the main shops will be completed next year due to confusion regarding land ownership, which has now been sorted out but due to time restrictions on the Keep Scotland Beautiful grant money it was necessary to prioritise the raised bed area at the corner of California Road. As part of this project, the community council ran a competition for the pupils of Maddiston Primary to create wildlife designs that will be turned into mosaics for the side of the bed. The winner from P4-P7 age category was Matthew Cummings and from the P1-P3 category was Ellie Dickson. A community event will be held in the near future to invite all ages to come and help create the mosaic stepping stones for the project.
2. Nicholton Road
Cllr Hughes held a meeting regarding concerns about Nicholton Road. It was noted by the chair that those with the most vocal concerns about the use of the road belonged to Brightons Community Council area. Maddiston Community Council will continue to raise concerns over lighting and visibility of the safe route to school that crosses over the road however other concerns from Brightons residents should be directed to Brightons Community Council.
Cllr Hughes advised that he is meeting with the Safer Routes to School group to gather support for making the crossing point more visible. A walk-about with Estates Dept of Falkirk Council will also be arranged to see about need to look at verges, over hanging trees and passing places.
3. A801 Distributor Road
The chair contacted Planning Dept of Falkirk Council to ask for the number of letters of support for this application. It was noted that there was 1 letter of support and over 80 letters of rejection. Concerns were raised that this road will lead to the opportunity for up to 1000 more houses in Maddiston East which would put a huge strain on a village already struggling to cope with the population increase as well as pressure on services in the Braes such as the clinic.
4. Community Health
The community council will meet with NHS Forth Valley to discuss the opportunities to continue with a baby clinic and establish an older person’s clinic in the village.
5. Local Development Plan
The consultation for the next Falkirk Council Development Plan will start shortly. The community council will be looking to make sure that infrastructure within Maddiston is provided if there is to be any further house building.
6. Maddiston Primary
The community council would like to congratulate the school on receiving a glowing report from the recent inspection. A copy of the report can be found below:
http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/Images/MaddistonPSNCIns250815_tcm4-867558.pdf
After concerns were raised by some residents about not getting a place at the nursery, a Freedom of Information request was sent to Falkirk Council to see how many children were offered alternative places. The request suggested no pupils this year or last year were offered alternative places and all children who requested a place at Maddiston got a place. The community council will be questioning this response as there have been a number of anti-preschool children over the last 2 years offered places at a variety of nurseries due to there being no places at Maddiston.
AOCB
1. Condition of roads
A resident raised concerns about the state of roads not only in Maddiston but Falkirk in general. It was noted that the railway bridge closure in Polmont has seen an increase in traffic through Maddiston which has seen more potholes created in the road. It is hoped that when the bridge re-opens that the council will look at repairing the damage caused by the influx in traffic through the village.
2. Falkirk Council’s plans for new building
A resident also raised concerns related to an article in the Falkirk Herald about the need to spend £21 million on a new HQ where money could be better spent.
The chair noted that 50% of the council’s budget is ring-fenced for education and whether the savings from the new HQ of around £200,000 was worth the money being spent.
It was noted by the vice chair that the money for this project is not coming from the Falkirk Council budgets so could not be spent on other projects and the aim to create on HQ that will be owned by Falkirk Council to save money on renting a number of properties throughout the Falkirk area.
Further information on the HQ proposal can be found below.
http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/places/general-offices/municipal-buildings/docs/New%20Headquarters%20Project%20presentation.pdf?v=201505131528
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 1st October 2015.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
October 2015
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 1st October 2015.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD: Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr McLuckie
Members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr Hughes
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
There were 59 calls to police in August.
There were 14 crimes reports raised, 9 detected and 5 undetected at this time.
Police note the decrease in calls related to antisocial behaviour.
Residents raised further concerns about speeding on the Main Road and parking around school. Community council secretary noted that police resources are stretched and the community understands the need to prioritise urgent problems over speeding or inconsiderate parking.
Community Safety Team
CST are investigating 4 complaints of dog fouling in Maddiston at a specific address. CST are patrolling and using signage as a deterrent, a dog bin has been requested in the area.
Currently CST are still monitoring a communal close for drug use within a new build and a working in partnership with FC Housing team.
CST have also been involved in removing of flyposting in the area and are working with the police in operation Monarda, aimed at doorstep crime including bogus workmen and fraudsters.
Outstanding Issues
1. Apple Day
The community council attended the Apple Day event at Muiravonside Country Park. It was a fantastic day with lots of activities from Forth Valley Orchards, Love food Hate Waste, FAS and others including our very own growing area.
2. Orphan Land
The raised bed at California road is almost completed with the art day taking place in the community centre to create bugs and mosaics for the bed. The community council would like to thank everyone that came and took part, especially all the children that put the mosaics together.
The query of land ownership of the second orphan land area at the shops in progressing with a letter from FC to the owner with information of land ownership and the permission for the cc to plant up. This project will continue in the new year.
3. Health Board Meeting
Members of the community council met with members of the FV Health Board to discuss health provision in the village.
A new health visitor is in place and will resume the baby clinic in the community centre.
Concerns were raised over the time it takes to get an appointment in certain practices at Meadowbank.
A further meeting is arranged for October to have the HB come to Maddiston and view the area so that they can better understand the needs of the community.
CC noted that neither NHS or FC provide support for substance abuse despite housing people with known drug problems in the village and the local Salvation Army rely on public donations to fill this gap in services by providing a drug support work.
4. Community Action Plan
An update on the work completed as a result of the community action plan. This will be available to the local community and the various partners that the community council work with.
5. Safe Route to School
Cllr Hughes provided information that shows that the safe route to school across Nicholton Rd is an unadopted road which means there is no opportunity for FC to provide lighting. FC will look to see if it can be adopted as part of the core path review next year.
6. Implications of council budget cuts
Concerns were raised regarding the council’s decision to outsource work to contractors and whether it would save money. Concerns over reports that garden aid is being provided to people are not eligible, including empty houses since the contractors have taken over. Reports will be collected by the cc and passed on to FC.
7. Litter
It was noted that FC are to cut litter picks in the village from 3 days to 1 however the same would not be happening for neighbouring areas. CC will seek clarification on this.
The Picktober litter pick event will take place on Saturday 3rd Oct at 10am in the Welfare Park.
8. Remembrance Sunday
The Remembrance Sunday service will take place on 9th Nov at 10.50am.
9. Christmas Carol Service
This year’s carol service will be on Friday 18th December at 6.30pm in Maddiston Primary School.
AOCB
1. Residents raised concerns about allocation of social housing in the village. It is felt that houses are being allocated to people from out with the village that are causing antisocial behaviour such as drug use, dog fouling, noise problems. Long term residents expressing exasperation at the fact that local families who are able to pay rent cannot access local social housing despite a large number of new social housing being built in the village.
Cllr McLuckie explained the reason behind housing allocation and noted that Falkirk Council are not able to discriminate on tenants and allocate on priority as set by 2013 Housing Act from Scottish Parliament.
It was noted by residents and members of the community council that they system is broken and penalizes hard working people and has an adverse impact on communities. Cllr Hughes agreed that the current allocation system is poor.
The community council will arrange to meeting with members of the Housing Dept of Falkirk Council and look into Scottish Executive housing policy to see if there is an option to push for change.
2. Resident requested salt bin to be put at the bottom of Windsor Crescent as when the weather is bad they cannot get to the top of the hill to access the nearest bin.
3. Resident raised the over grown bushes across from the main entrance to Valley Park which means the pavement cannot be used.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 5st November 2015.
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
November 2015
Minutes for the meeting held on 5st November 2015.
Police Report:
1/10/15 – 31/10/15 there were 66 calls to police logged. Call types included
Misuse of Drugs
Alarm calls
Domestic Incidents
Suspicious Persons
Concern calls
Animals on the road
Missing persons
There were 8 crime reports raised, 3 of these were detected and can be summarised as follows:
Concerned in the supply of controlled drugs
Possession of Controlled
Taxi fraud
Ward Priorities:
Antisocial behaviour
Very few reports of antisocial behaviour. One male was reported for being involved in the supply of cocaine after a warrant operation. In a separate incident a male was arrested after being found in possession of cannabis.
Vandalism
Two cases of vandalism reported. The incidents are not connected and both appear to be one-off incidents.
Acquisitive Crime
A theft of batteries from a farm and theft of copper cabling from another farm was reported. No thefts from residential areas, but residents are advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police.
Speeding/Road Traffic
No road traffic offences or complaints during the month of October.
Violence / Disorder
No violent incidents or reports of disorder.
PC Reid would like to make the community aware that information can be given to the Police in confidence and would encourage people to provide intelligence to help tackle local crime.
Email feedback to :- [email protected]
Community Safety Report:
01/10/15 to 04/11/15
CST has dealt with four dog fouling complaints
Two youth disorder issues
One incident of drug taking in a public place
Active involvement in the removal of fly posting
Email feedback to:- [email protected]
Keep Scotland Beautiful
Maddiston Community Council attended an award ceremony held by the Keep Scotland Beautiful organisation and received a level 3 certificate in the It's Your Neighbourhood category. This was the result of helping to establish an orchard and growing area in Muiravinside Country Park as well as planting up areas within Maddiston with wild flowers and landscaping areas previously maintained by Falkirk Council. Special thanks goes to Nicila Stainthorpe, Vice Convener for all her hard work in getting this award.
Long Term Plan
Falkirk Council will be starting work on the new Local Development Plan and Maddiston Community Council are keen to involve everyone in the area with having an input into decisions which affect them. It is expected that further developments will take place in the Maddiston area and through local consultations it is hoped that developers will be the encouraged to provide substantial infrastructure to support these developments.
A council consultation survey is available online. It's important for everyone to have a say in this decision making process.
Health
Minutes of a meeting held with Kathy O'Neil, general manager of FVHB have yet to be agreed.
A meeting was held with various members of FVHB to discuss taking forward health provision within the upper braes area.
Fire Station
Plans are still on going with regard to the Fire Station building when the fire services vacate it. FVHB has expressed interest in seeing the building and Cllr Murray hopes to arrange this.
Safe Route
Nicholton Road safe road to school appears to be land which is privately owned a therefor Falkirk Council area unable to put lighting in the area. Further searches are being made to find other solutions to this issue.
Land at Parkhall Drive
The vacant land at Parkhall Drive is being looked at with an overview of the schools whole footprint. Over capacity has lead Falkirk Council to investigating the possibilty of extending the school. Modular units will be installed until this is resolved.
Remembrance Service
A Remembrance service will be held at the local war memorial in Main Street on Sunday 8th November at 10.50.David Robertson from the Salvation Army will conduct the service with a reading by David Campbell from Maddiston Evangelical church. Primary 7 children have written the names of all those lost in battle on crosses to be placed by the memorial. It is hoped that funding can be found to place a more permenant record at the site.
Christmas Carol Service
The annual carol concert will be held at Maddiston Primary School on Friday 18th December. A collection will be taken this year for the Salvation Army to support all their good works within Maddiston.
Police Report:
1/10/15 – 31/10/15 there were 66 calls to police logged. Call types included
Misuse of Drugs
Alarm calls
Domestic Incidents
Suspicious Persons
Concern calls
Animals on the road
Missing persons
There were 8 crime reports raised, 3 of these were detected and can be summarised as follows:
Concerned in the supply of controlled drugs
Possession of Controlled
Taxi fraud
Ward Priorities:
Antisocial behaviour
Very few reports of antisocial behaviour. One male was reported for being involved in the supply of cocaine after a warrant operation. In a separate incident a male was arrested after being found in possession of cannabis.
Vandalism
Two cases of vandalism reported. The incidents are not connected and both appear to be one-off incidents.
Acquisitive Crime
A theft of batteries from a farm and theft of copper cabling from another farm was reported. No thefts from residential areas, but residents are advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police.
Speeding/Road Traffic
No road traffic offences or complaints during the month of October.
Violence / Disorder
No violent incidents or reports of disorder.
PC Reid would like to make the community aware that information can be given to the Police in confidence and would encourage people to provide intelligence to help tackle local crime.
Email feedback to :- [email protected]
Community Safety Report:
01/10/15 to 04/11/15
CST has dealt with four dog fouling complaints
Two youth disorder issues
One incident of drug taking in a public place
Active involvement in the removal of fly posting
Email feedback to:- [email protected]
Keep Scotland Beautiful
Maddiston Community Council attended an award ceremony held by the Keep Scotland Beautiful organisation and received a level 3 certificate in the It's Your Neighbourhood category. This was the result of helping to establish an orchard and growing area in Muiravinside Country Park as well as planting up areas within Maddiston with wild flowers and landscaping areas previously maintained by Falkirk Council. Special thanks goes to Nicila Stainthorpe, Vice Convener for all her hard work in getting this award.
Long Term Plan
Falkirk Council will be starting work on the new Local Development Plan and Maddiston Community Council are keen to involve everyone in the area with having an input into decisions which affect them. It is expected that further developments will take place in the Maddiston area and through local consultations it is hoped that developers will be the encouraged to provide substantial infrastructure to support these developments.
A council consultation survey is available online. It's important for everyone to have a say in this decision making process.
Health
Minutes of a meeting held with Kathy O'Neil, general manager of FVHB have yet to be agreed.
A meeting was held with various members of FVHB to discuss taking forward health provision within the upper braes area.
Fire Station
Plans are still on going with regard to the Fire Station building when the fire services vacate it. FVHB has expressed interest in seeing the building and Cllr Murray hopes to arrange this.
Safe Route
Nicholton Road safe road to school appears to be land which is privately owned a therefor Falkirk Council area unable to put lighting in the area. Further searches are being made to find other solutions to this issue.
Land at Parkhall Drive
The vacant land at Parkhall Drive is being looked at with an overview of the schools whole footprint. Over capacity has lead Falkirk Council to investigating the possibilty of extending the school. Modular units will be installed until this is resolved.
Remembrance Service
A Remembrance service will be held at the local war memorial in Main Street on Sunday 8th November at 10.50.David Robertson from the Salvation Army will conduct the service with a reading by David Campbell from Maddiston Evangelical church. Primary 7 children have written the names of all those lost in battle on crosses to be placed by the memorial. It is hoped that funding can be found to place a more permenant record at the site.
Christmas Carol Service
The annual carol concert will be held at Maddiston Primary School on Friday 18th December. A collection will be taken this year for the Salvation Army to support all their good works within Maddiston.
December 2015
Minutes of the meeting of Maddiston Community Council held in Maddiston Community Centre on Thursday 3rd December 2015.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr McLuckie
A. MacDonald from Cars4U
C. Cox from Falkirk Council (sustainable transport co-ordinator)
Members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr Murray
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
Chair welcomed PC Craig Towler, the new community officer for the area.
There were 9 crimes reported last month
3 Drugs
4 Minor vandalism
1 Taxi fraud
1 Domestic incident
There has been a reduction in antisocial behaviour, the community safety team also agreed that there has been a significant drop in antisocial bahaviour problems over the last 6 months. The community welcomes this news and thanks the police and community safety team for their hard work tackling these issues.
Community Safety Team
There was 1 complaint of dog fouling and 1 youth disorder for November. CST continue to monitor off-road vehicles and have advised that a previously raised issue regarding the fence behind the old folks must be taken up with the owner of the fence as it was found to be private property.
A resident raised concerns over persistent dog fouling at one location. CST have asked for times and dates that this is happening so that they can look at increasing patrols in that area.
Outstanding Issues
1. Meadowbank Cars4U
A presentation was given by Mrs MacDonald regarding a new charity that is being set up to provide transport for cancer patients to attend hospital appointments. It was noted that the existing Patient Transport Service is not suited for those who are receiving treatment for cancer as it involves a large amount of waiting and long trips to pick up and drop off other patients. Meadowbank Cars4U aim to provide volunteer drivers to take patients directly to their appointments and return them back home as soon as they are finished. A similar scheme called Driving Force has been running successfully in the Bonnybridge and Denny area for the last 10 years. At the moment Cars4U are in the process of forming a committee and registering as a charity, it is hoped that they will start offering a service to the Braesview Practice at Meadowbank Surgery with the intention of rolling it out to other practices in the future.
2. Presentation from Mr Cox: Sustainable transport co-ordinator for Falkirk Council
Mr Cox gave a presentation on what is covered by Transport Department in Falkirk Council. It was noted that number 1 bus service operated in Maddiston is not a subsidised scheme and as such Falkirk Council have no power over this route. The chair raised the possibility of a park and ride project within the village and will arrange to meet Mr Cox at a future date to discuss the practicalities of this project further.
3. Local Development Plan 2
The LDP2 consultation is underway, giving people the opportunity to inform Falkirk Council of what issues most affect their village or community. The consultation can be found online at www.falkirk.gov.uk or on the Maddiston Community Council website. The community council would urge people to take the time to fill in the survey as this can help influence future planning for Maddiston and surrounding areas. The closing date for the consultation in January 8th 2016.
4. Community Council Forum
Members of Maddiston Community Council attended the recent Community Council Forum which discussed the Falkirk Council budget gap.
5. Growing Area
The community growing area has now leased out over half of the plots in the six months since being established. The Growing Association will be formed in the new year so that they can continue to grow and make the growing area a success.
The is a Friends of Muiravonside meeting on 30th January at 4pm, all welcome to attend.
6. Memorial Pavers
Maddiston Community Council are working with Maddiston History Group to find funding to create permanent memorial pavers for those lost in WW1 and WW2.
7. Greenwells Development
The community council met with Mr Scott regarding future proposed development on the land at Greenwells farm. The community council made the community position clear regarding house building in the area and the need to provide infrastructure and benefit to the existing community.
8. Defibrillator
The Community Council are working with Mr Brown to provide defibrillators in the community, Mr Brown has been working on the Maddiston Defibrillator Fund and has already raised a large amount towards this project. Training courses are to be arranged to give people the opportunity to learn to use them effectively. This project is very welcome and may save lives.
9. Christmas Carol Service
This year’s carol service will be on Friday 18th December at 6.30pm in Maddiston Primary School. This year we will have a collection for the Salvation Army.
10. Planning
The Councillors have called in planning applications for the telecoms mast and wind turbine on the golf course.
AOCB
1. Residents raised concerns about the possibility of school crossing patrols being reduced in the village.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 7th January 2016
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.
PRESENT
JW; Convenor
NS; Vice Convenor
JMcD; Secretary
NB; Treasurer
Cllr Hughes
Cllr McLuckie
A. MacDonald from Cars4U
C. Cox from Falkirk Council (sustainable transport co-ordinator)
Members of public
Apologies
SA
LOC
Cllr Murray
MATTERS ARISING
Policing
Chair welcomed PC Craig Towler, the new community officer for the area.
There were 9 crimes reported last month
3 Drugs
4 Minor vandalism
1 Taxi fraud
1 Domestic incident
There has been a reduction in antisocial behaviour, the community safety team also agreed that there has been a significant drop in antisocial bahaviour problems over the last 6 months. The community welcomes this news and thanks the police and community safety team for their hard work tackling these issues.
Community Safety Team
There was 1 complaint of dog fouling and 1 youth disorder for November. CST continue to monitor off-road vehicles and have advised that a previously raised issue regarding the fence behind the old folks must be taken up with the owner of the fence as it was found to be private property.
A resident raised concerns over persistent dog fouling at one location. CST have asked for times and dates that this is happening so that they can look at increasing patrols in that area.
Outstanding Issues
1. Meadowbank Cars4U
A presentation was given by Mrs MacDonald regarding a new charity that is being set up to provide transport for cancer patients to attend hospital appointments. It was noted that the existing Patient Transport Service is not suited for those who are receiving treatment for cancer as it involves a large amount of waiting and long trips to pick up and drop off other patients. Meadowbank Cars4U aim to provide volunteer drivers to take patients directly to their appointments and return them back home as soon as they are finished. A similar scheme called Driving Force has been running successfully in the Bonnybridge and Denny area for the last 10 years. At the moment Cars4U are in the process of forming a committee and registering as a charity, it is hoped that they will start offering a service to the Braesview Practice at Meadowbank Surgery with the intention of rolling it out to other practices in the future.
2. Presentation from Mr Cox: Sustainable transport co-ordinator for Falkirk Council
Mr Cox gave a presentation on what is covered by Transport Department in Falkirk Council. It was noted that number 1 bus service operated in Maddiston is not a subsidised scheme and as such Falkirk Council have no power over this route. The chair raised the possibility of a park and ride project within the village and will arrange to meet Mr Cox at a future date to discuss the practicalities of this project further.
3. Local Development Plan 2
The LDP2 consultation is underway, giving people the opportunity to inform Falkirk Council of what issues most affect their village or community. The consultation can be found online at www.falkirk.gov.uk or on the Maddiston Community Council website. The community council would urge people to take the time to fill in the survey as this can help influence future planning for Maddiston and surrounding areas. The closing date for the consultation in January 8th 2016.
4. Community Council Forum
Members of Maddiston Community Council attended the recent Community Council Forum which discussed the Falkirk Council budget gap.
5. Growing Area
The community growing area has now leased out over half of the plots in the six months since being established. The Growing Association will be formed in the new year so that they can continue to grow and make the growing area a success.
The is a Friends of Muiravonside meeting on 30th January at 4pm, all welcome to attend.
6. Memorial Pavers
Maddiston Community Council are working with Maddiston History Group to find funding to create permanent memorial pavers for those lost in WW1 and WW2.
7. Greenwells Development
The community council met with Mr Scott regarding future proposed development on the land at Greenwells farm. The community council made the community position clear regarding house building in the area and the need to provide infrastructure and benefit to the existing community.
8. Defibrillator
The Community Council are working with Mr Brown to provide defibrillators in the community, Mr Brown has been working on the Maddiston Defibrillator Fund and has already raised a large amount towards this project. Training courses are to be arranged to give people the opportunity to learn to use them effectively. This project is very welcome and may save lives.
9. Christmas Carol Service
This year’s carol service will be on Friday 18th December at 6.30pm in Maddiston Primary School. This year we will have a collection for the Salvation Army.
10. Planning
The Councillors have called in planning applications for the telecoms mast and wind turbine on the golf course.
AOCB
1. Residents raised concerns about the possibility of school crossing patrols being reduced in the village.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING.
Thursday 7th January 2016
CLOSURE OF MEETING.
Convenor thanked those attending and closed the meeting.