Present: Mrs J Priest Mrs A Cosgrove Mr E Martin Mr R Russel
Mr B Craighead Mr D Wight Mr J Swift Ms A Pearson
Mrs V Hoban Mr N Morland Mrs L Shaw Stewart
In attendance: Ms A Hunter (minutes)
Cllr S Kempson Cllr N Hampshire John Kinnaird (Deputy Lieutenant)
East Lothian Council: Present: Mr P Forsyth, Mr D Proudfoot, Mr S McKinlay
Virtual: Mr E Hendrikson, Ms S Williams, Mr N Craik-Collins, Mr R Edgar
1. Apologies: Cllr P McLennan
2. Minutes of meeting held 2nd December were agreed.
3. Police Report
December ñ A Pop Up Officer and live checks in Drylaw Terrace resulted in 4 motorists being warned, 3 of whom were local residents. Enquires are ongoing into reports of a serious assault within a premises in the town, damage to a window at The Crown and Kitchen and a male refusing to quit a licensed premises and behaving in a threatening manner. January - 1 report of vandalism. Mr Craighead reported that the CAPP meeting agreed to prioritise speeding during February. The next meeting date is to be determined.
4. Matters Arising
4.1. Queens Jubilee
Mr Kinnaird informed the meeting that the Lieutenancy of East Lothain website (https://eastlothianlieutenancy.co.uk) has full details of the proposals for beacons to be lit on 2nd June to celebrate the Queenís Platinum Jubilee and also the plan to plant trees as part of the Queenís Green Canopy. Mr Kinnaird invited suggestions on where beacons could be located - there are to be 70 in East Lothian. He also asked for suggestions on sites to plant trees. This could be a tree in a garden or a number of trees at a site where they could be cared for. The trees will be supplied free of charge by Alba Trees although he welcomed any company donations. The trees will be established plants which should need less initial care and have a higher chance of surviving. Plaques will also be available to mark the trees. This will contribute to the ëgreeningí of East Lothian. The trees should be planted either before April or between October and December. Mr Wight reported that the hope is to plant trees on the cricket pitch in Tyninghame with the agreement of the Earl of Haddington.
People with no internet access should contact the community council for details.
4.2. Roads
Mr Forsyth reported on the Markle Crossing and the consultation which supported the replacement of the crossing with a bridge. Mr Morland confirmed Markle residents are in support but there is some concern over the appearance of the bridge and the route of the road. A rapid development approach is underway with ELC leading the development in collaboration with Transport Scotland and Network Rail. The purchase of the land is hoped to complete in the next few months with a planning application to following between June and August and work to start in Autumn of this year. There will be survey activity in the next few weeks. This will include drilling rigs to help determine the best alignment of road to minimise cost. Timescales need to fit with the station opening otherwise a costly full-barrier replacement will be required.
In response to an enquiry by Mr Swift Mr Forsyth indicated that the land would be compulsory purchased if required but that would impact timescales. Mrs Cosgrove enquired about possible problems with planning but with no application as yet that canít be forseen. There will be a pre-planning consultation for residents. The exact location of the road, within the corridor indicated in the consultation, will be known at that point.
Preston Road. Mr Forsyth no longer has responsibility for this. Traffic lights and pavement widening are under consideration. Funding is available from the Cycling, Walking, Safer Roads budget. He will provide the name of who is leading the project. Mrs Priest reported that Drylaw Terrace/Browns Place pavement resurfacing will start in February.
Mrs Cosgrove raised an issue with potholes on the North Berwick road. Mrs Shaw Stewart asked if anything could be done about the difficult and dangerous entrance to The Mart. Cllr Hampshire suggested this could be addressed with the station contractor when the work was finished as it is anticipated damage will result from lorries using the entrance. DCC will confirm they would like to see an improvement.
Mr Forsyth confirmed that removal of the grass on the pavement outside The Mart was under consideration. Mr Kinnaird spoke to Mr Forsyth about white lines painted on the road around Papple Farm. This will be raised with ELC.
4.3. School Update
This item was introduced by Mr McKinlay, the new connected communities manager. Mr Proudfoot, the ELC Executive Director for Place hosted the hybrid session with ELC representatives present in person and online. Neil Craik-Collins reported on a healthy response from East Linton in the two rounds of consultation making up the Learning Estate Review. Analysis of responses should be complete by the end of this month and the next stage is a Learning Estate Improvement Strategy followed by an Improvement Plan. He suggested people review the guiding principles of the Scottish Government Learning Estate Strategy. He is keen to encourage as much engagement as possible in the consultation which is currently live at https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/east-linton-ps.
th December (https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/meetings/meeting/16833/east_lothian_council) and the reasons for considering a new school as opposed to an extension highlighting the capacity breach expected in 2024 which will necessitate a temporary classroom. He explained that the 3 layouts suggested in the consultation are examples of how the school and facilities can be accommodated in the park, they are not definitive and he welcomed suggestions for alternative layouts. He talked through the questions posed in the consultation and emphasized that these are not an exhaustive list and other concerns should be raised.
https://eastlothianconsultations.co.uk/housing-environment/replacement-whitecraig-primary-school-consultation.
Mr Swift asked about the legal aspect of building on War Memorial Park. The park was bought by East Linton residents via public subscription, run by trustees then handed over to ELC. He questioned what conditions were transferred over with ownership. He also highlighted that under the Open Space Audit War Memorial Park was designated as the highest level of green space and questioned what would be left after the school was built. He stated that all 3 options result in a significant loss of green space. Mr Proudfoot agreed to take the legal questions away and respond. In respect of the park Option A(Appendix 2) attempts to site the school on ELC land within the Education Account. All layouts were developed with a focus on the flow of green space. Existing trees will be protected as much as possible. The existing building will be re-purposed and returned to green amenity space.
Mr Hendrikson informed the meeting of a new Open Space Audit which will factor in the development the park and will include the tennis courts, football pitch, play park, skate park and informal open space. ELC are keen to understand the informal use of the park and to factor that into the design options. Mr Swift asked whether open green space will be re-provided elsewhere if it is demonstrated that the area of open green space is the park is reduced.
Mr Proudfoot confirmed the loss of green space was raised at the council meeting. The outcome of that was not discussed. Mr Craighead also expressed concern about the devastating impact on the village of the loss of green space in relation to the station and the school development and sought assurance that all sports facilities would be replaced. He questioned whether they could be provided on another area. Mr Proudfoot emphasized the safety aspect of locating the school in the park and confirmed that facilities will be re-provided subject to consultation and funding being identified.
Mrs Hoban cited ELC planning policy in regard to building in a conservation area and questioned how a 2 storey building could be constructed when residents faced stringent constraints relating to property maintenance. Mr Edgar could not comment on specifics as there is no current planning application but agreed the planning department would weigh up the benefits and make a decision ensuring any proposed design would enhance the area and fit with neighbouring properties. Mrs Hoban also questioned how the school could be expanded in future on that site.
Mr Proudfoot stated the school would be future proofed but did not explain how. Ms Williams confirmed that the consultation responses will inform the design and that every option increased community land. The school site has been kept as small as possible while conforming to regulations. The building will be oriented to save energy and will be well insulated and the ultimate gain will be a healthy school environment.
Mr Wight recognized the conflicting demands for the space and questioned whether land adjoining the village could be purchased for play space such as the football pitch and tennis courts. Cllr Hampshire communicated that ELC would not go down the compulsory purchase route for land but could advertise for a landowner willing to sell some land for that purpose. Prices for land zoned for housing would not be paid. Mr Swift confirmed that was what happened when Myraís field was sold and that no conditions on use are attached to the deeds. Mr Wight questioned if along with sustainability and energy efficiency whether ventilation would be considered a priority to future proof against further viral outbreaks.
2 filter to minimise recirculation of disease.
Mr Morland gave the Parent Council view and confirmed they would focus on the design of the school rather than other areas of the consultation. He hoped that the design principles for primary schools laid out by the Scottish Future Trust could be adopted. Option A is preferred as it promotes passivehaus energy efficiency. Mrs Priest asked why ELC canít buy new land to avoid building in the park. Mr Proudfoot confirmed that the decision to build a new school was predicated on using land already within council ownership due to cost and time constraints. Mr Forsyth explained that sites on the outskirt of the village would face difficulties with safe walking and cycling routes.
Mrs Priest expressed concern that for a community where not everyone has internet access one morning at The Mart was not sufficient and requested further meetings. Mr Proudfoot stated this would not be possible due to Covid concerns. Mrs Priest requested a home for DCC in the new school.
4.4. Fountain Repair
Mr Craighead reported that the fountainís electrical system was damaged in the last storm. It will be rewired and running before spring at a cost of £300-500.
4.5. Meetings attended
Mrs Cosgrove attended a Scottish Rural Parliament sub group meeting which will cover the money which used to come to rural communities from LEADER. She identified play facilities as an important category. There was uncertainty about the amount of money available but a commitment to easier administration.
Mr Wight reported on a CAEL meeting with MSP Paul McLennan about ëThe Wellbeing Economyí in East Lothian. This covered retrofitting housing, reducing energy consumption, improving transport and food distribution. It also suggested greater autonomy for local government and setting up citzensí assemblies at a local level although there was no clarity on how this could be implemented given the powers held by ELC and the powers held by the Scottish Government. There was a suggestion that there should be measures in place to determine how Area Partnerships and Community Councils are delivering against goals for sustainability and social justice but a lack of detail on how this would be implemented. Mrs Cosgrove reported on the DELAP meeting funding requests which will see play-space in Lauderdale Park replace with a Petanque pitch. Mr Craighead will make an application at the next meeting to replace the East Linton Christmas lights.
Mr Swift chaired the Local Access Forum where Nick Morgan reported that he has submitted a planning application in connection with the path between Tyninghame and Binning Wood. This should allow the landowner to apply for further funding to support the path. Mr Wight confirmed that Tyninghame residents are overwhelmingly in favour.
5. Finance Requests
Mr Martin reported £2800 in the bank with expected outgoing of £300-500 for the fountain. It was agreed to provide up to £300 to support a group of volunteers organizing a new ëFestival by the Seaí in Dunbar to promote life around the harbour, fishing, sea food and water sports. DELAP have already provided £2000. It was also agreed to provide approximately £200 to cover the materials required for 6 bat boxes and 6 bird boxes. These will be constructed by Mr Craighead and placed in the park.
It was agreed to pay the DCC rate for the planning application related to Longstone Play Park. Mr Craighead reported on a recent meeting where residents expressed concern over the potential for the area to be used in appropriately. Mr Craighead confirmed that investigation had revealed that the area was owned by the residents of Longstone Avenue and that DELAP are providing funds. Mr Swift expressed concern that there may be planning conditions on the land and that any change of use would have to be covered at the planning stage to avoid the possibility of the park having to be re-instated. Mr Craighead confirmed it would have to contain one piece of equipment to allow it to remain a play park.
6. Tyninghame/Whitekirk
Mr Martin is pursuing BT regarding fibre broadband in Whitekirk and has been meeting with MSP Paul McLennan. The concern is that BT have laid cable in Whitekirk but superfast broadband is not available to residents. Mr McKinlay committed to investigating who was responsible for the roll-out in East Lothian. Cllr Hampshire confirmed that ELC have no influence with BT and suggested contacting our MP/MSP.
Mr Wight reported that the floor of Tyninghame hall has been sanded and varnished. He expressed concern about motor bike trekking in the woods adjoining John Muir where there is a monthly gathering causing noise nuisance. Mr Swift questioned whether an events licence has been granted. Cllr Hampshire has raised it with Environmental Health but ELC have no power to stop it happening as the noise is not deemed a nuisance at that time of day. He will check again with Environmental Health over the noise levels. Mr Swift reported that the trails are within yards of the SSSI and that the noise is possibly a hazard to wildlife. The woods are also full of plastic indicator markers and plastic tape indicating routes to follow. Mr Wight will raise a DCC objection with Neil Clark of the Countryside Ranger Service.
7. Traprain/Markle/Whittingehame
Ms Pearson encouraged people to respond to the Scottish Government survey on litter and fly tipping - https://consult.gov.scot/environment-forestry/national-litter-and-flytipping-strategy. She commented on the enormous increase in litter around Sunnyside due to the new bin lorries driving with their hatches open and suggested this could be reported through the survey. Mrs Shaw Stewart and Cllr Kempson confirmed the same is happening in Whittinghame and complaints had been made to Tom Reid. Mrs Priest suggested a different type of collection in rural areas. Mrs Shaw Stewart suggested boxes be removed full and empty boxes left or penalties for the contractor. Mr Wight suggested disabling the vehicle if the doors are not shut. Cllr Hampshire confirmed the doors should be closed if the vehicle is at speed and will take it up with Tom Reid. It was agreed that the idea of separating the rubbish was supported but the implementation needs review.
Ms Pearson also reported that people were climbing the walls into Hailes Castle. It is currently closed. Historic Environment Scotland have closed a number of sites in East Lothian over concerns about stability of the buildings with no opening dates available.
8. Planning Matters
Nothing to discuss.
9. Correspondence
9.1 07/01 ELC (Provost): Supporting our Local Economy
9.2 08/01 T Hetherington: Possible community use of old school 9.3 13/01 ELC (CDutton): Visitor Management Plan survey
9.4 13/01 CCís: Fundraising Training 10 Feb 9.5 20/01 CCís: Induction Training sessions
Advertiser
9.7 24/01 J Bell (The Shed): funding request for bird boxes
9.8 24/01 CCís: Stay in Scotland campaign (for EU citizens) 9.9 26/01 N Armstrong: weed spraying
9.10 26/01 ELHSCP: Update on Community Hospitals and Care Homes Provision
9.11 26/01 AELCC: rotating of chairman position
9.12 30/01 E-mail, Lieutenancy of East Lothian: The Queenís Jubilee Beacons
Mrs Priest reported that the ELDA is being sold which could mean DCC news will no longer be distributed by this method. A small amount of money is made on the production and the word is out for someone to take it on. AELCC are looking to implement a rolling chair position and the proposal has been made that each community council provide a vice chair for six months followed by a chair for months. Mrs Priest encouraged members to consider the Queens Jubilee.
10.0 Any Other Business
Mr Russel reported that Scottish Power are to reinstate the steps at St Baldreds well.
Mr Swift confirmed that two disabled spaces, with appropriate marking and signage, will be provided outside the Co-op. Mr Craighead enquired about responsibility for the floodlights in the park as bulbs need replacing. Cllr Hampshire will investigate.
Mr Craighead confirmed the defibrillators are working and fully charged. Mr Martin will make annual provision for battery replacement - £1000 over 3 years. Mr Craighead confirmed that siting a bench at Hailes is not currently possible and suggestions for a new site should be passed to Ms Pearson. Mr Russel was congratulated on painting the benches in the park.
Ms Cosgrove will collate the DCC response to the proposals for the school and will circulate a draft based on all responses sent to her. Mr Russel questioned DCC constitution in relation to ownership of assets. Mr Swift confirmed assets are not equipment or vehicles but items which can be passed on such as buildings although care has to be taken about buildings owned by unincorporated bodies. Mr McKinlay will progress this and the constitution will be updated once this clause is settled.
11.00 Date of next meeting: 3rd March 2021