Stonehouse Community Council

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Stonehouse Community Council

Previous Minutes

20th February 06
16th January 06
12th December 05
21st November 05
31st October 05 (interim meeting)
10th October05
19th Sept 05
15th August 05
5th June 05
21st March 05
21st February 05
16th September 02
21st January
17th December
19th November

MINUTES OF MEETING 20/2/06

1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES
G. Smith (GS), R. Freel (RF), A. Paterson (AP), M. McBain (MMc),
B. Craw (BC), M. Casey (MC), W. McMurtie (WM) and four members of the public

Apologies - R. Craig, W. Mackie (In Hospital)
No elected members of the SLC or the police were in attendance.

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES
Distributed to the floor and were accepted

3. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES
· GS Emailed K Gillon regarding the major changes to the NHS, but she was not available as she was on a three-week trip to Malawi.
· No reply yet from SLC regarding the costing of the local toilets. RF will follow up.
· W. Mackie is in hospital re a suspected heart attack

4. CORRESPONDANCE
· Mostly for information and we are waiting for responses on a number of issues.
· Muddy water at Cander Bridge - SEPA, has been notified of this by H Burns.
· Invitation to a seminar for playground equipment on 16th March. Nobody available to attend.
· Discussion on the SLC local plan. Refer to Local plan under SLC. Sewage pipe work is STILL a major problem. We are hoping to get the Water board to attend a council meeting.
· Cott Castle caravan site seems to have changed its use and we will check to see if they have applied for a change of use.
· Too many signs at the approaching roundabout in the village. R Freel will check with SLC to establish if permission is required to affix to lampposts etc.
· CC received a map regarding council owned land - there would seem to be possible sites for the new Community hall.
· We will be taking an advert out in the Gala Day newsletter cost will be same as previous year.
5. POLICE
· None
· There was a discussion re a number of youths causing damage to property in the village.
· It was reported that a meeting arranged for the 'safe as houses' program had to be cancelled as the police failed to attend and no apologies were given.
6. SLC
6.1 Roads
· The traffic calming has STILL not started in the village.
· There followed another discussion regarding the speeding in the village

6.2 Miscellaneous
· CC was disappointed that no councillors were present at the meeting to answer question on local issues.

6.3 Local Plan

· Discussion took place on the supplementary local plan consultation document, which outlined additional pressure for change sites. It was agreed that secretary would write to SLC regards this matter.

7. HEALTH
· We will contact K. Gillon when she arrives back from her overseas trip re the new health proposals.
· NHS consultation meeting 28th March, members of community council will attend.

8. UTILITIES
· Electricity - None
· Water - None
· Gas - None

9. TRANSPORT
· It was reported that buses appear to be running irregular in the village.
R. Freel explained that the bus service up to 18.00 was provided as a commercial service by the bus operator and as such complaints should be made in the first instance to the bus company and if not satisfied then a complaint should be made to the Traffic Commissioner. After 18.00 the service was subsidised by SPT and was monitored. Complaints should be made to SPT Head of Operations Mr Heaney and members of the public were requested to write in and complain to SPT who can fine the bus company if they do not operate to timetable.

· Road works will be starting on the M74 at Raith interchange and congestion will be a problem. Public were made aware of the average speed cameras that were being put in place.

10. REPORTS None

11. A.O.C.B

· Stonehouse development trust has been formed. B Craw spoke about the Trust & its purpose. The next meeting of the group is Saturday 25/3/06.
· There was a discussion about the Larkhall regeneration project. We will invite Paul Fagen to our next meeting g in March.
· There was a gas leak at Cander Bridge; H. Burns called the police re large lorries trying to use Cander Mill road and the narrow bridge. It was reported that one got stuck. It would be useful to get a sign put up stating no HGV's. R Freel will write to roads department.
· R. Freel handed out a list of all the meetings planned this year.
Next meeting is on the 20/3/06 and will be held in the Public Institute.

COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES 16TH JANUARY 2006

1 MEMBERS PRESENT
G. Smith, R. Freel, W. Mackie, A. Paterson, B. Craw, G McLaren, W. McMurtrie, Robert Craig. George McLaren, PC I. McKinley, Cllr J Burns and 8 members of the public who signed the sederant
Apologies: Councillor I. McInnes, M. Casey.

2 PREVIOUS MINUTES
These were agreed and accepted by those present.

3 BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES
· None

4 CORRESPONDANCE (Refer to list attached)
4.1 Toilets in King Street cost £21,700 to run a year, but we could do with a breakdown of what this is spent on, i.e. does it include salaries etc.? Secretary to follow up.
4.2 Cleland Sneddon is still looking at places and sites for the Community Centre. He intends to ask the user groups of the present halls for their views for any possible sites that may be possible to build on. There then was a lengthy debate on the old hospital site and the possibility of this being used for the benefit of the village since the land was originally gifted to the village by the Lockhart Trust. More information to be obtained in relation to surviving relatives of Lockhart family.

5 POLICE
· There were 32 crimes, most were minor incidents and there was a robbery at the Co-op
· PC McKinley gave out warning stickers for vehicles to the floor. A big launch re theft will be happening soon.
· Any cars without road tax discs need to be reported to the DVLA, who will clamp same.
· There is a "safe as houses" program for vulnerable people to use, including the marking and recording of their goods. See PC McKinley regarding this.
· Broken glass at Alexandra Memorial Park is a problem, but PC McKinley spends most of his time at the Tileworks Park. J. Burns will raise this issue.

6 SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL
· Robert Freel has been in touch with SLC to try to find out how much has been spent on the village from SLC and the income generated by Council tax payers. SLC does not have this information.
· Toilets in the village close at 6pm, yet they are open until 10pm in Strathaven.

7 HEALTH MATTERS
· There was a lengthy debate on the proposed changes to the hospital provision in the Lanarkshire area and there is to be a meeting to decide which hospitals will be changed and kept as General Hospitals etc. W. Mackie is going to a meeting on 22/11/05 and will report back. We should ask Karen Gillon her views on this issue. Chair will take up health matters.
· There was a lengthy discussion regarding the local hospitals and the proposed changes of there use. It looks like we will be getting two A & E and one maternity hospitals, but we are not sure which one it will be.
· Still no ultrasound in Stonehouse hospital. WM and GS have been perusing this, but have been told we are not getting one.

8 UTILITIES
8.1 Water - None
8.2 Gas - None
8.3 Electricity - None

9 TRANSPORT
· Traffic calming WILL now start in February.

10 REPORTS
10.1 ELECTED MEMBERS
I. McInnes: None
J. Burns
· Gate will be put up at the Tileworks Park soon.
· The council is still looking at possible sites for the new Community hall.
· J. Burns is at a meeting next week regarding the roads and traffic calming in the area, he will report back on this.
· New Street will be resurfaced, but we are not sure how far it will go.
10.2 TREASURER
· Gave a full report on the councils finances.

11 AOCB
· None
Next meeting will be Monday 20th February 2006 in the Public Institute on New Street..
Time: 7.00 for Committee, and 7.30pm. For members of the public.

Minutes of meeting held on 12-12-2005

1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES

W Mackie, A. Paterson, R. Freel, W McMurtie, B Craw, G. McLaren
and 5 members of the public as per sederant

Apologies - G. Smith, Cllr. McInnes (ill) , Cllr J. Burns (due to meeting date change)

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES
Distributed to the floor and subsequently accepted as being accurate.

3. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES
No business arising

4. CORRESPONDANCE
R Freel stated that the letter to the Chief constable had not been prepared and sent out yet. Correspondence was minimum. The following were discussed

(i) Letter from Harlequin regards site share of telephone mast at Udston Farm. Secretary to write letter regards planning gain.
(ii) Letter received from Jimmy Hood MP regards Veterans Lapel Badge. Anybody who served in services during war years can apply.
(iii) Confirmation that Toftcombs housing application objection letter received.
(iv) Roads department have fixed the lighting column on bypass roundabout. We await details on the lighting issues reported.
(v) Nomination letter received from Watt court residents association regards vacant nominated position. As no other applications had been received it was agreed that Robert Craig would represent the residents association.
(vi) Letter from F McDermid , secretary to write to Ed Archer.

5. POLICE
No Report.

6. SLC
Nothing Raised.

7. HEALTH
(i) W Mackie reported on the Picture of Health options meeting that NHS Lanarkshire were running. All options and comments submitted were being considered with results to be published early next year. Following this it would be put out to a public consultation.
(ii) Francis Finlayson had contacted W Mackie regards the community Council participating as part of the stakeholder group in the hospitals strive for a Charter mark, and had queried a report in the local press regards distribution centre for the hospital, this should have been Canderside

8. UTILITIES
(a) Electricity No Report

(b) Water Drains had been reported to roads

(c ) Gas No Report.

9. TRANSPORT

Traffic calming in the village will be starting shortly however no dates have been provided yet. Secretary will follow up.

10. REPORTS

Elected Members
No Report

Treasurer

W. Mackie stated that bank balance was currently £1206.33, Community council had spent £254 of this years grant..

11. A.O.C.B

11.1 Local plan submission has been done and acknowledgement received.

11.2 A question on the status of the new community hall was raised from the floor. As far as the community council understood it no decision had been taken and the council were still examining other areas. Station park and hospital site were all mentioned as possibilities. Secretary will write to Clelland Sneddon

11.3 The regeneration of the cross information meeting was well attended with approx. 70-80 people attending. As far as CC were aware no adverse comments received. Work will start next year.

11.4 A question on the opening hours of the toilets was received from floor and comparison discussions between Stonehouse and Strathaven toilets took place. Secretary will write to council regards toilet opening hours.

11.5 Speeding and parking around the village was discussed. Will McMurtie advised that he had discussed some issued on speeding with PC Iain McKinley.

Next meeting is on the 16-01-2006 at the Public Institute at 7.30 pm. 7.00 for all committee members

COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES 21ST NOV 2005
1 MEMBERS PRESENT
G. Smith, R. Freel, W. Mackie, A. Paterson, B. Craw, M. Casey, G McLaren, W. McMurtrie, Councillor I.McInnes, PC I. McKinley and 8 members of the public.
Apologies M. McBain, Councilor J. Burns

2 PREVIOUS MINUTES
These were agreed and accepted as being accurate.
3 BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES
· Chair has sent an Email re the ultrasound at the local hospital, but are waiting for a reply.
· Traffic calming is now due to start in the New Year however we await further details of the actual programme
· There is a regeneration meeting at 4/5 The Cross on 22/11/05 from 3-7pm member of public are encouraged to attend and give comments on the proposals for the cross area.
· Re the community hall, the community council have been advised that the council are now looking at other suitable sites

4 CORRESPONDANCE (Refer to full list attached)
4.1 A.S.C.C. Petition regards planning bill.
4.2 C.V.S. AGM is in Salvation Hall Burnbrae Street on 24/11/05
4.3 Stonehouse Development Trust - meeting on sat 26/11/05 at 11am about setting up a trust in the village.
4.4 Community Councils Discussion Paper from Scottish Executive, passed to members with a request for feed back by January 2006.

5 POLICE
· There were 27 incidents since the last report. There appears to be an increase in vandalism and there was a robbery from a person in the village. PC McKinley asked us to be more vigilant when walking about in the village. This incident involved a mugging of a 50 year old at 2.50pm in vicinity of Kirk Street.
· He was glad to report that there was an increase in the number of calls to the local police station reporting incidents.
· The Speedwatch campaign, (which has been recording motorists speeding using the radar gun) has been in operation for a number of weeks and has been received very well by the motorists. From the 1/12/05 the police will start to charge those motorist who are caught speeding and they will also be breathalysed if caught speeding.
· Parking in New Street is still a problem and we will contact the chief constable to clarify the legality of parking on the pavement. PC McKinley indicate that if anyone finds that a car is causing an obstruction they are asked to phone in a complaint at that moment and not wait to the Council meeting to raise the complaint.
· Speed signs will be erected in the village soon as part of the proposed traffic calming development
· Trucks appear to be parking overnight at Canderside Gait and using the fields as toilets. I.McK said it might not be an offence to park if the truck is properly and safely parked, but obviously using the field as a toilet is an offence. They may however be in breach of their operating licence and residents should report this to the traffic commissioner in Edinburgh.
· There are various grants available to the police to use for community activities and I. McKinley has already been using these to benefit the community.
6 SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL
6.1 Local Plan is out for consultation and Chair explained some concerns over it. All members are requested to supply their comments to R. Freel who will co-ordinate and tie all the points together and send our response in. It was hoped that we could submit bullet points of our concerns and submit a full report a week later. R Freel will investigate however a submission of some sorts is required by Friday. It would appear that Stonehouse is falling way behind other areas in relation to spending.
6.2 Meeting with SLC on 17/11/05.
· Road traffic calming was discussed and is supposed to start after Christmas. We will wait and see!, the community Council did not get t to see the final traffic calming plan for the village.
· The cutting of the bypass was discusses and it that the job has been contracted out to land services. R Freel will request the specification and hopefully we will get a more regular cut next year.

· A pelican crossing at West mains and the Spar will be introduced to make it safer to cross the road in the village, which can be a problem with the amount and speed of the traffic. The pelican crossing at West Mains has come not long after we were told that the area did not meet the criteria for crossing point.
· With the building of the new Industrial unit at Canderside Toll, we have been informed that the roundabout will be redesigned and upgraded.

7 HEALTH MATTERS
· There was a lengthy debate on the proposed changes to the hospital provision in the Lanarkshire area and there is to be a meeting to decide which hospitals will be changed and kept as General Hospitals etc. W. Mackie is going to a meeting on 22/11/05 and will report back. It was intimated that we should ask Karen Gillon her views on this issue.
8 UTILITIES
8.1 Water - None
8.2 Gas - none
8.3 Electricity - None
9 TRANSPORT -Discussed earlier re traffic calming.
10 REPORTS
10.1 ELECTED MEMBERS
I. McInnes (IM)
· The problem at Tileworks Park was discussed and I.McInnes has been in touch with them and it started that the gates at the top and bottom could be locked.
· Doggy bins have been asked for in the village and these should be installed soon.
· Traffic calming on Strathaven Rd will commence in January with the rest being complete by March.
· It was reported that there are old tyres lying at the Cander Bridge and IM will look into this.
· A member of the floor asked if there were any plans to modernize the council houses in the area, again he would look into this.
· The pavements are a mess as are the roads in the area of the school; R. Freel will send an Email to the roads department.
· The overhead power cable was down in Camnethan Street and was live. IM had previously reported these cables as being sagging. He will look into it again.
10.2 TREASURER
Gave an interim update of the financial position of the community council.
11 AOCB
· Vandals are smashing car door mirrors and scratching cars in the green street and Camnethan street area of the village.
· There was a question from the floor about the possibility of improving the lighting in the village but it would be doubtful if there was the money to implement such a program. R Freel will write to roads department to find out if any lighting replacement programs are scheduled for the village.
· There is a lamppost facing the wrong way on the bypass; RF will mention this to the roads department in his email.

Next meeting will be brought forward a week due to Christmas and will be on Mon 12th December at the Public Institute.

Top

INTERIM COMMUNITY COUNCIL MEETING 31-10-2005

1. MEMBERS PRESENT
G. Smith, W. Mackie, R. Freel, A. Paterson, B. Craw, Molly Casey, Myrtle McBain, Andrew Clark
2. APOLOGIES None
3. RETURNING OFFICER - Election Results
Andrew Clark started that there was no need for election as only seven people had applied to join the council. He thanked everyone for applying and outlined the next stage of the process which would be to elect an interim chair and committee followed by a call for nominated members from local groups.
4. RETURNING OFFICER - Election of chair.
Myrtle McBain proposed G. Smith as the chair to keep the consistency going on the Community Council. A. Paterson seconded it and George Smith was elected as the Chairperson of the CC.
5. ELECTION OF INTERM SECRETARY
G. Smith asked R. Freel if he would continue to act as the secretary with W. Mackie seconding this. R Freel agreed to continue and A. Paterson will assist him by the asking minutes of the meetings.
6. NOMINATED MEMBERS
G. McLaren had intimated to the returning officer that he would be willing to join the community council as a nominated member to represent a number of organisations that he is involved with . (Church, Burns club etc.). Two other nominations are required. We will post a notice in the Library and the Post Office and local press.
7. AGM
This will; take place on November 21st in the Public Institute at 7.00 pm before the regular meeting.
8. AGM ADVERTISING
We will post details of this in the local press and in the local shops
9. AOCB
Robert Freel thanked Andrew Clark for acting as the returning officer and also passed on the thanks from Margaret Armstrong SLC Community council Liaison Officer who stated that it was conducted in a very efficient and professional manner. G. smith also added his thanks to A. Clark. He also thanked W. Mackie for assisting with the photocopying etc.

Minutes of meeting held on 10/10/05

1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES

G. Smith, R. Freel, W Mackie, A. Paterson, T Cooper
Cllr. McInnes, Cllr J. Burns PC. McKinlay and 8 members of the public as per sederant

Apologies - G. McLaren

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES
Distributed to the floor.
Copies of a response letter by Chairman regarding the major points raised during the Community Hall meeting with Cleland Sneddon were also handed out.

3. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES
This will be added to the Police report.

4. CORRESPONDANCE

(i) There have been a few planning applications and the Community Council has objected to them in principal. Concerns that no planning gain for village and that piecemeal application's are splitting housing release. There are also concerns about the Sewage and drainage sewage in the village, especially at the West / East mains estates. A number of applications have still had no decision made by SLC Planning. There also seems to be an inconsistency from the planning. E.g. the application at Studlea farm was refused, yet nearby permission was granted for another "alleged business" to erect a house.
(ii) There was also a letter from Margaret Armstrong the Community councils liaison officer regarding the Triennial election advertising. We will send her a letter letting her know when and where we advertised it.

5. POLICE
(i) There were 14 crimes reported in the last 3 weeks. All were fairly minor offences.
(ii) There was a long discussion regarding the problems of the youths drinking and behaving badly in and around the Violet Park area and Stonehouse in general. There have only been 3 phone calls in 3 months regarding this and PC McKinley urged people once again to telephone in their complaints. 98% of calls are anonymous and the Police require more information regarding the offenders. I.e. what they are wearing. build etc.
(iii) There were various suggestions made such as
· Removing the shelter there and making it a temporary canvas one for match days only.
· Locking the gates and stopping access from Sidehead Road after a specific time
· Better quality of CCTV camera in park Cllr. J. burns will try looking into these issues.
(iv) Boy racers and speeding motorists are still a major problem in the village. PC McKinley stated that he has now been trained to use the speed gun and has access to one. This will be getting used in the village in the near future.
(v) Pavement parking on New Street was raised again. Some people park too close to the buildings forcing people in wheelchairs etc to move onto the road. This is a major issue and short of making the street one way and making cars park on the road, this will continue to be a problem. A suggestion by R Freel of cutting the pavement size on both sides to allow parking should also be looked at. SLC will need to address this problem eventually.
(vi) There is a burnt out car down at the Boags, PC McKinley will deal with it.
(vii) An information sheet on how to make a complaint to the Police force would be a good idea; PC McKinley will try to arrange this. Once again he reminded people to telephone or write in with their complaints to the Police.

6. SLC
Nothing Raised.

7. HEALTH
(i) Still no ultrasound at Stonehouse hospital. George will wait 2 weeks and write a letter regarding this.
(ii) The problems of the busy chemist was raised and about elderly and infirm people who are forced to travel to collect their prescription. It maybe possible to get a prescription delivered from Strathaven as Munro's operate a delivery service.

8. UTILITIES
(a) Electricity None

(b) Water A member of the public asked if it were possible to clean the drains,
especially around the village cross-area, as they were full of mud etc, Cllr I McInnes would take this on board.

(c ) Gas It has taken about 8 weeks to complete the gas works at the bottom of
Lockhart Street. However it has had a positive effect on calming the traffic on the street.

(d) A member of the public asked from the floor if bins could be provided in New Street. Cllr J. Burns will try to sort that out.

9. TRANSPORT

Traffic calming in the village was supposed to be completed by the end of October. It would appear that this has been left until the regeneration of the cross has been done. The traffic calming could have been done in other parts of the village though. Members of the Community council will pursue this

10. REPORTS

Elected Members
(i) Cllr(s) McInnes and Burns stated that most of the points have been covered throughout the meeting and that Cleland Sneddon has not got back in touch with them yet. . Cllr McInnes has complained about the proposed development at EAST mains.
(ii) It was agreed that the community council following the triennial election should invite Graham Scott, again, to a meeting to see if he can clarify some of the strange decisions of the planning department. Next meeting will arrange dates. We seem to keep getting houses added every other month with no planning gain for the village.

Treasurer

W. Mackie stated that we had spent £96 and that we had over £1300 in the bank.

11. TRIENNIAL ELECTIONS

There are seven places available and nominations can still be submitted, if more than seven nominations received an election will be necessary. The closing date is tomorrow.
The returning officer will arrange a meeting after 25/10 to either confirm the members of the council or to arrange an election

12. A.O.C.B

None

Next meeting is on the 21/11/05 at the Public Institute and will include the AGM and the regular council meeting.

MINUTES OF MEETING 19TH SEPTEMBER 2005

1 MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES

G. Smith, R. Freel, W Mackie, A. Paterson, G. McLaren, T. Cooper,
Cllr. I McInnes, PC. McKinlay and 31 members of the public.
Apologies - J. Burns

2 PREVIOUS MINUTES - Distributed to the floor along with copies of the correspondence and proposed agenda.

3 BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES - None.

Chair intimated that he intended to cover the police report first and then the remainder of the meeting would be used to discuss the new proposed community hall in the grounds of Stonehouse Primary as the project manager for this project was in attendance to give an outline of the project and to answer questions.

4 POLICE

a. PC McKinlay had been very busy with the G8 summit and subsequent holidays resulted in him being unable to attend the previous month's meetings.
b. The crime figures from July to present were outlined as follows, 350 incidents were recorded, but over half of these were for incidents such as traffic light faults, alarm calls etc.
i. July - 19 Offences were recorded, 68% were detected.
ii. August - 23 Offences, 65% detected.
iii. September - 39 Offences (17 street drinkers). This figure was up due to a Pro-active approach by the Police Force.
c. A resident reported that noise coming from a Public House in the vicinity of the Cross-area was a problem for some locals. Police can act, but the public MUST telephone their complaints into the Police. It is also a matter for South Lanarkshire Councils environmental health noise inspectors who can investigate and report to the licensing committee when the license renewal is up. The public are therefore asked to report this to your local councillor or phone it into the Council.
The number to call for the Police is 202300.
d. The gathering of youths and drinking at Tileworks Park is still a problem. PC McKinlay has other officers have chased these youths on many occasions, but not long after they are moved, they congregate back at the park. PC McKinlay asked us to draft a letter to him regarding this and he will attempt to solve this problem.
e. The scooter provided for the village is in Larkhall Police station, but PC McKinlay has yet to pass his test.
f. Hugh Burns had reported the abandoned car on Lockhart Street, but due to the police reporting & communication system, and the fact that the vehicle did not have a recorded keeper, it took a while to move it, but it has since been moved. However by the time it was removed 3 windows had been smashed.
g. There were still complaints about speeding cars in New Street. PC McKinlay will try to deal with this. Secretary will email PC McKinlay.

The remainder of the meeting was taken up with a presentation by Cleland Sneddon (Project Manager of the proposed new Community Hall) followed by a question & answer session
The main points from the meeting were listed as follows however a comprehensive list of questions raised will be sent to Mr Sneddon and will be issued with the next minutes.
Mr Sneddon intimated that the proposed time line is as follows,
a. An opportunity arose for an investment of £1.6m, which could be spent, on building a new Community Hall for the village.
b. A feasibility study was done by architects.
c. Various proposed sites were looked at
i. Murdoch Park, this was too small
ii. Tileworks Park, this was too boggy.
iii. School, which was deemed to be the best site, due to the location and the dual use possibility with the school.
d. There was a meeting with the school board and a consultation meeting followed this on 17/8/05 where over 200 people attended over a number of hours.
e. A document will be prepared by Mr Sneddon and submitted to committee after the consultation period has finished.
f. Cleland then showed the drawings of the proposed Hall to the floor.
g. A question and answer session then followed. The list of points and concerns are listed below.

· The hall looks very small.
· The parking looks inadequate. (Teachers + Rascals + Playgroup + parents + other groups)
· Murdoch Park would accommodate a hall this size.
· This is a shared facility and the school would have priority over its use.
· It is not a good idea to exit a facility onto the busy A71.
· It was stated that it would cost too much to modernise the existing halls.
· There would be complication and conflicts between groups over the use of the hall.
· Poor choice of materials, i.e. Cedar after all the village is called STONEHOUSE.
· Could the old Rex Cinema be used?
· Floor space was very small 200m2 and 100m2 compared to the present floor space of over 900m2 in our present halls.
· Will the Head teacher of the school be happy sharing the facility?
· The Rascals Playgroup would have problems using it due to its size and its lack of accommodation for toys etc. They would use all the floor space of the small hall, which means no other group could use the hall.
· In 1 hall at the institute in April there were 40 lets during the day and 20 at night. They could not all be accommodated, especially as these groups are not allowed to use the large hall during the day.
· Poor communication and lack of dialogue with the current users of the halls was apparent.
· The new proposal FAILS to met the needs of the community just now, never mind in the future.
· Councillor McInnes stated that the facility as was proposed was TOTALLY inadequate for the needs of the village. He recommended that Cleland asks the users personally and establish the usage of the current halls.
· Kitchen was also very small and inadequate. Cleland wasn't sure if groups could use the school kitchen.
· Sale of alcohol at this hall could be a problem if kids were in the next morning, but Cleland Sneddon said that the hall could be thoroughly cleaned before they entered.
· Cleland was asked what it would cost to modernise the existing halls, but was unsure.
· A resolution was proposed from the floor that the Community Council recommend that this proposal is TOTALLY INADEQUATE and UNSUITABLE as a Community Hall for the village's needs now and into the future.

The next stages are,
Cleland will look at the comment cards and take in the views of the people present and the previous meeting and report back to SLC, which should reflect the groundswell of opinion. A decision will be taken and further consultation will be done with village, the Community Council and the Planning Department.

George Smith thanked Cleland and the excellent turnout of people for their attendance.

Next meeting will be on the 10/10/05 at the Public Institute Stonehouse prior to the proposed Community Council Elections and the disbandment of the current community council

AMENDED MINUTES 15TH AUGUST 2005

1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES

G. Smith, R. Freel, A. Paterson, W Mackie, J. Burns.
Apologies -
Six members of the public

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES - None.

There was no meeting held in July and the previous meeting (June) was not quorate because only W. Mackie and A. Paterson were present from the committee. G Smith was away on business and R Freel was on other business. Since a number of the public had appeared for the meeting it was decided to have an open forum discussion , allowing members of the public to have their say on a number of matters. This was mainly a discussion regarding the proposed development at Canderside Toll . Councillor Jackie Burns provided as much information as he could to those present.

3. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES - None.

4. CORRESPONDANCE - See separate sheet issued at meeting.

5. POLICE - No. Report.

6. SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL
1 The committee advised that they had been told that the proposed traffic calming in Stonehouse will be completed by the end of October although New Street has been ignored once again. Speed activated sign will be installed at each end of the village. No other details were given regarding the traffic calming.
2 The verges on the bypass are very poor and in need of some grass cutting. To date only one / two cuts have been undertaken.
3 Phase two of the bypass will not be completed and is not in the local plan, however it was up to the community to fight to have it retained on the plan.
4 There was a general discussion regarding the new community hall, and people were advised to attend the meeting being held by SLC at the school.
5 The proposed £700k spend on regeneration - various ideas are proposed and another meeting is planned in a few weeks.
6 The Canderside Toll development is to be an NHS distribution depot if planning permission is given, although there are a lot of objections to it, including Larkhall Community Council. Stonehouse Community councils position is to support it. The community council has lobbied for jobs since the hospital closure.

7. HEALTH MATTERS
1 There was concerns over some people having to wait up to 48 hrs to get a prescription due to the chemist being seemingly very busy.

8. UTILITIES
8.1 Water - No details on the work at the sewage works.
8.2 Gas - The gas meters in Lockhart Street are to be moved to the outside of the house over the next few weeks. This will means some upheaval and disruption for some people.
8.3 Electricity - None

9. TRANSPORT - None (Traffic calming covered earlier)

10. REPORTS
10.1 Ian McInnes - None
Jackie Burns
a. Discussion on the expansion of the café to sell food and later hours.
b. An application, again to sell food from a local public house.
c. J. Burns expressed concerns over the DSS flats at the cross. He will meet with owners and report back.
d. An application to sell food in the lay-by on the Cander Bridge could be lodged. Rubbish could be a problem. Community council will watch for the appl;ication.
e. There seems to have been black bins collected by the council and mixed in with the blue bins. Glass bottles etc are still a bit of a problem. Bottle bank located behing the Stonehouse Violet club.
f. A large metal plate covering a drain hole is still lying at Woodland View.
g. There seems to be some inconsistency with the planning department on various issues. Chair will write to Ian Urquart regarding this.
h. Discussion re rabbit infestation at McLean gardens.
i. Discussion re cemetery and any possible extension.
j. Public meeting on the new Community hall will take place on Wednesday between 3 and 7.30 pm. There was a lengthy discussion regarding this.
10.2 Treasurer
a. Our grant was spent last year and with this year's grant of £706, the total in the bank is £1381.
b. W. Mackie read out the list of planning applications.

11. TRIENNIAL ELECTION UPDATE
· Andrew Clark was confirmed as having been appointed as the returning officer. The closing date for application is 11/10/05

12. A.O.C.B. - None

Next meeting is Mon 19th September

MINUTES SUNDAY 5TH JUNE 2005

1 MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES
George Smith, R Freel, W Mackie, Tommy Cooper, George Mclaren
Apologies A. Paterson,

Meeting called to discuss planning applications for Canderside and East Mains

Canderside
Following discussions which concerned road infrastructure, the community councils previous submissions on industry being located in this area and its use for a distribution centre it was agreed that the community council would not object but raise concerns on the road structure. Roundabout etc.

East Mains
Following discussions, which centred on Stonehouse Aheads application, the Hospital application, village infrastructure (or lack of it) and the use of green belt the community council would object to this application.

Secretary to write to planning.

COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES 21ST MARCH 2005

Chairman George Smith thanked everyone for their attendance.
1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES
G. Smith, R Freel, W Mackie, A. Paterson, T Cooper, G Mclaren,
Councillor, J. Burns, PC Iain McKinley, plus 13 members of the public who signed sederunt.
Apologies: Councillor I McInnes, A. Sloan, R Craig

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES
Previous minutes were distributed to those present at the meeting. The previous minutes were accepted
3. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES
DSS flats at The Cross, a general discussion on the recently approved application took place with the general consensus that here is no right of appeal against the planning approval.

4. CORRESPONDANCE
· Scottish Water has got plans to reline some sewage pipes in the Stonehouse area
· NHS Consultation re cardio thoracic surgery, the Community council Chair will put in a submission.
· Submission from Stonehouse Senior Citizen Association re membership of the Community Council. We will write to them and extend and invitation to nominate a member on the Council.
· Parking restriction plan for Stonehouse just arrived; we will look at it and hopefully post a copy in the Library.
· E-mail to Alan Ingram, he was invited to the meeting but he was unable to attend.
· Wind farm application, the floor was asked for their opinions on this. There was a general discussion on who would benefit from it with the Community council having no pre-conceived ideas. Secretary will request plans.

5. HEALTH MATTERS
· The 0870 Doctors number. Chairman George Smith has been looking into it and has a letter from the Scottish Executive which states that as of 1/5/05 these will be banned, but existing contracts we be allowed to continue. Chair to establish the length of existing contract.
· Karen Gillon was emailed regarding this, but her reply was to ask the community council what's happening. A meeting was asked for with the surgery, but they refused.
· W. Mackie and G. Smith attended the meeting re hospital. There was still no Ultrasound for hospital. G. Smith will write to Andrew Kerr.
· The 794048-phone number was no longer in use. The hospitals have been complaining about delays using the 0870 number. There were complaints from the floor about waiting 20 minutes to get through. J. Burns said to ask a meeting with Karen Gillon and Health Board. We will try to contact Larkhall Community council regards the practice's use of this number.

6. UTILITIES
6.1 Water Secretary We will write to them regarding the relining of pipes to establish where in the village.
6.2 Gas Nothing to report.
6.3 Electricity We will write to Scottish Power regarding the possibility of the overhead cables being replaced by underground cables. A Scottish Power worked intimated to a villager that they are intending to replace them in due course.
6.4 BT Nothing to report.

7. POLICE
· It was very quiet last month with 9 crimes. These included 5 cases of vandalism 1 drugs offence, 1 theft (Royal bank), 1 fire-raising and 1 assault. PC McKinley intimated that the reduction in vandalism might be down to the outreach program for the youths in the village being up and running. PC McKinley was going to try "midnight football" for youths; a possible trial run on a Tuesday night seemed to be working.
· There was a complaint from the floor re youths at the cross. PC McKinley said that the public MUST phone in to complain otherwise he is unable to do anything about these incidents.
· There appears to a problem with parking at Taits Corner. It was stated that these people are not doing anything illegal, but under the new proposed parking restriction, they will be unable to park there in the future.
· PC McKinley had brought videos etc with him regarding home security and neighbourhood watch scheme. We asked if we could postpone this until the May meeting. He handed out booklets re home security.
· The police scooter will be used in the village when PC McKinley passes his test.

8. TRANSPORT
Secretary asked Councillor Burns if there is a program to replace shelters at the bus stops as Candermill Road shelter had been replaced. Councillor was only aware of the general replacement of stops.

9. REPORTS
Councillor I. McInnes none again
Councillor J. Burns
· Stonehouse Youth Forum is starting to gain momentum and he is looking into the possibility of using schools during holiday breaks. A number of things are planned and subsidised by SLC.
· The road traffic-calming scheme for the village should begin soon however it was felt that particular attention should be given to the roundabout at Taits corner.
· The planning issue at Woodlands View. The boundary wall in the initial plan has been dropped and will be replaced by a post and wire fence. Councillor Burns intimated that secretary should write to Head of Planning if they wished to establish why it had been changed. Councillor Burns also stated that at present the site was an eyesore as you entered the village.
· It would appear that a recent development in Strathaven brought in £80000 to the village, but we don't appear to be getting anything from recent developments in Stonehouse. Secretary will seek to establish how much was obtained from St Ninian's development.
· We are still waiting for the local plan for Stonehouse.
· There will be a new £1.6 million community centre built by 2007. The site etc has still to be agreed. General discussion took place on this with community council asking if it was still tied to the school development.
· SLC recycling. It would appear hat some residents in the local authority were given leaflets regarding a free composter, yet no one was informed in Stonehouse. Secretary will write about blue re-cycle bins.
Treasurer The grant for the previous year was for £706 and we overspent by £1.46.

10. ELECTION
The tri-annual date. Notices will be posted in the shops and library nearer to the time. Election will be October.

11 A.O.C.B.
· There was a question from the floor regarding the gender imbalance of the Community Council. Chairman intimated that the community council is open to any gender to apply and we have asked for ANYONE in the village to join the council as a nominated member or to stand for election.

Next meeting will be held on Monday 18th April 2005 at 7.30 pm in the Public Institute.

COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES 21ST FEBRUARY 2005

Chairman George Smith thanked everyone for attending especially in the atrocious weather conditions.
1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES
G. Smith, R. Freel, W. Mackie, A. Paterson, G. McLaren, T. Cooper, PC McKinley,
Six Members of Public who signed attendance record. Apologies from Cllr Burns.

PREVIOUS MINUTES
Previous minute's agenda and correspondence were distributed to those present at the meeting. The previous minutes were approved.
2. CORRESPONDANCE
· Planning for the renovation of flats 6 The Cross to be used for DSS use. The intention was to make 9 flats, which was refused, but 6 will be created, despite the community council's indication to planning that the cross was probably not the most suitable place to create DSS housing.
· Planning Permission to increase the capacity/ useage of HGV vehicles at Dovesdale Farm was discussed and community council intimated that we were not against this, but it maybe better to increase the number of vehicles allowed as the business grew as opposed to a blanket increase to 70 vehicles from current 30.
· Planning application for 15 houses at St. Ninians was approved despite the community council's concerns regards the sewage pipe-work capacity. This was stressed once again in the planning observations.
· Cllr McInnes was in contact with the Cander Centre surgery regarding the new telephone number, but was not present to enlighten us the result of his enquiry. It would appear that a special local number for the surgery is available for use. It is 01698 794058. Chair has written to A Kerr MSP following Daily mail reports.
· A discussion followed regarding the Community Council triennial elections and Andrew Clark was enrolled as election officer. It is hoped that a full compliment of members will apply for nominations.
· The Freedom Of Information Act was discussed and R. Freel would try to download and copy some of these for issue at next meeting.
· The local Stonehouse gala website was up and running, the address being; www.stonehousegala.co.uk. The local channel was launched in Scotland and web space was available for the Community Council and could be used for items and perhaps minutes etc. R Freel will complete and return forms. Their was also the community website but some confusion as to whither it was still running.
3. POLICE
1. There were 19 crimes last months and several of the charges were linked to the total amount. There were some housebreakings especially from garages. The CO-OP was held up, but as yet no one has been apprehended.
2. PC McKinley reminded people to look at the security of their property and to be more vigilant. He suggested that a neighborhood watch scheme could be initiated. It is hoped that some booklets will be provided to the community. We are hoping to have a meeting about house security in April possibly a presentation.
3. There was a good talk from PC McKinley regarding the laws involved in the use and purchasing of fireworks.
4. There was concern from the floor regarding overnight parking of articulated lorries at Persimmons and at Cander Bridge. PC McKinley will look into it.
5. Problems with parking on Townhead Street at Taits corner discussed.
5. REPORTS
5.1. Councillor J Burns None
5.1. Councillor I McInnes None
6. HEALTH
· It appears that there are still problem with certain equipment. Chairman will contact regarding this. We are planning to invite Tim Davidson, (the new boss of NHS Lanarkshire) along to a meeting with the Community Council. This will be agreed.

The next meeting will be 0n 21/3/05 at Public Institute Stonehouse at 7.30 pm.

COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES MONDAY 16th SEPTEMBER 2002

Chair thanked everyone for attending and intimated that the first item on the agenda was a presentation to retiring member Mr. Hugh Burns who had served on the community council since its inception some 25 years ago.
Following an overview of Hugh's work on the council which covered the bypass action group, his involvement in roads issues on Lockhart street and Dovesdale right of way amongst the many that he had been involved in, the Chairman presented Hugh with an engraved crystal vase and a bottle of Malt whisky.
Hugh thanked the community council and advised if any members required his assistance or advice they only need to ask.

Chair moved meeting to normal business.

1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES :
G smith (Chair), W Mackie, H Burns, R Freel

Apologies: Councillor J Young, T Cooper, PC Forrest, Present at Meeting:
12 Members of Public. (Refer to attendance record)

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES:
Chair asked those present to approve minutes. Approved by members present.

3. BUSINESS MATTERS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES:
Roads Matters and Hospital would be discussed under SLC, no other items arising.

4. CORRESPONDENCE IN & OUT
Secretary stated that a full list of correspondence was attached to the agenda. Anybody who wished to read the correspondence was welcome to do so.

5. SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL
5.1 Roads
Prior to community council returning from its summer break, members met with Ian Urhquhart Head of corporate Resources for their quarterly meeting to discuss various issues around the village. The following were discussed at this meeting.
Traffic calming scheme at Strathaven Road, West mains was not successful in its capital bid. The installation of temporary Traffic Cameras was discussed but may not materialize as SLC have only one set.
Candermill Road bridge / tree logged under bridge.
Canderside toll, work would be carried out early next year.
Additional Bollards would be erected at Newfield.
Hospital and various matters were raised under AOB

Meeting then discussed:
Union Street and speeding to go to Tilework park, The need to raise the profile on the bypass. Speed statistics have shown that Strathaven road is faster going out than coming in.
Caledonian Avenue needs re-surfacing.
Agreed that W Mackie and Tommy cooper will draw up a list of roads requiring re-surface work.

6 HEALTH MATTERS
W Mackie gave an overview of the current position, detailing the number of meetings cancelled and moved to different dates. No attendance by ALC at any of the meetings. Progress is slow with a new plan being issued, which still shows project being delivered on time although various stages have either had timescales increased or reduced. Chair intimated that he would write to Roy Garscadden regarding Orthopedics / Ophthalmology.
The Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) has been issued, with a 60-day return.
Social work input and land transfer may have contributed to delay in issue of ITN

7. UTILITIES:
Transco subcontracted work to Alfred Mcalpine on pipeline, which has resulted in a number of gas pipeline debris, barriers etc being left lying about the village Secretary will contact with Transco.

8. POLICE REPORT
PC Forrest had sent his apologies, however he was going into hospital for an operation.
The following items were raised under this heading.
Crime report for past months to be sought by secretary
Bins were being set on fire in the Glenburn area of the village.
Car petrol tanks were being punctured and petrol removed.

9. REPORTS

9.1 Councillor Burns
Handed out copies of his report and gave a further review of the items on the report.
Lockhart Street re-surfacing should be carried out by end of financial year.
McLean Gardens, SLC are looking at Health & Safety issues.
A member of the public asked about the football park meeting that took place earlier in the week and Councillor Burns gave an overview of the meeting. Some interaction from members of public took place.

9.2 Councillor Young
Apologies received along with a copy of his monthly report.
A copies of Councillor Young's report was handed out.

9.3 Treasurer's Report
Treasurer provided interim reports, Treasurers Account £1301.22
30 Day Account £1052.01

9.4 Assistant Secretary
Treasurer who was overseeing the planning applications indicated that there were no major planning applications received.

10. Election Procedure
Chair introduced Mr. Andrew Clark who had been appointed as Returning officer and Andrew gave those present an indication of the nomination and ballot process. Advert would appear in the local press next week with a 5-week return date.

11 A.O.C.B
11.1 Chair advised group about a camera that had been installed at the old ship area, and how he had reported this councillor Young who then tried to find out who was responsible for it. It turned out it was for a road survey by the roads department.
11.2 Flooding in Union Street was raised and problem of the water run off from the roof gullies. Residents have raised these issues with John Cameron of South Lanarkshire Councils Roads Department.
11.3 Dumping at Bridge on Sidehead road was raised.
11.4 Grass cutting on Bypass was discussed with W Mackie stating that this was raised with SLC roads in August.
11.5 Painting of Bridge in Sidehead Road was raised.

Next Meetings will take place at Public Institute on Monday 21ST October Committee members 7.00, 7.30 open to public 7.30 onwards

STONEHOUSE COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES Monday 21st January 2002

With apologies received from Chair and Vice Chair, Assistant Secretary Hugh Burns took the chair in order that secretary could take minutes. Mr burns welcomed everyone to the meeting and proceeded with normal agenda items.

1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES :
R Freel, H Burns, W Mackie, A Sloan, T Cooper, J Currie.

Apologies: Chair, Vice-Chair, Councillor J Young, Strathclyde Police.

Present at Meeting:

Signed attendance sheet circulated.

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES:

Chair asked those present to approve minutes. Approved by members present.

3. BUSINESS MATTERS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES:

(a) Twinning
Secretary had made contact with SLC who stated that no policy or procedure documents existed and that he should write in.
Action Secretary
(b) Presentation of No Excuses
Secretary advised members that Mr Boag had contacted him this morning to advise that he could not attend and that another meeting would have to be arranged.
Action Secretary
(c) Feasibility Study
Would not be available until end of January

4. CORRESPONDENCE IN & OUT
Secretary stated that a full list of correspondence was attached to the agenda. Anybody who wished to read the correspondence was welcome to do so.

No Items were discussed at this point.

5. SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL

5.1 Roads
Cross Area
Secretary referred to a letter received from SLC roads regards prioritisation signing at Spar stating that he thought some confusion had arisen between the build out at Spar and video shop. Councillor Burns stated that he was meeting with roads department during the coming week and would raise this point. Also reported that a bollard had been knocked over.
Cander Bridge
A bollard recently knocked over at Cander Bridge was also reported as was the water running from the field entrance onto A71 Cander Bridge
Action Councillor Burns
Bypass
Flooding from ditch at first roundabout was reported secretary will write to Mr Cameron.
Candermill Road
Councillor Burns reported that roads department were investigating the possible re-alignment of road at junction onto A71 in village at Gas mains.
Murray Drive
A member of public asked what was happening with parking at Murray Drive. As councillor young was not present the section within his report was read out and a resident advised that he was aware that a proposal was circulating the area.

6. HEALTH MATTERS

Secretary advised those present that he had received a letter from our MSP Karen Gillon however he had passed this onto chair and Chair outlined the current position of the hospital development and stated that he was going to photocopy and bring to the meeting. It was unfortunate that chair was not in attendance. Secretary outlined from memory what the latest position was.
Secretary also advised everyone present that Councillor Young had contacted the Chair and asked if he would chair a public meeting on 7th February that he had instigated, however secretary had no further details. Councillor Youngs letter to community council was read out.
Concern was shown from some of those in attendance that some MSP's had not been invited.
A member of public asked if the hospital ground was sold. The position as it was known to members present was discussed. It was thought there was confusion between hospital site and Department of Agriculture and Fisheries land just off the by-pass

7. UTILITIES:

Nothing to report on all three

8. POLICE REPORT
No report as apologies had been received from Constable Forrest.

9. REPORTS

9.1 Councillor Burns

· Gave an update on the Village Centre consultation discussed under 3 (b)
· Outlined the proposals that had been issued for consultation as stage 1 of a no parking and yellow line proposal for the cross-area.
· The council would be participating in a routes to work programme which was costing an estimated £75k and covered the Canderside area. This would start in January 2002
· When asked about bollards for New Street councillor Burns intimated that he would pursue this matter with John Cameron roads engineer. Unsure if it was included in the consultation process.
· Mono bloc area at cross still to have bollards.
· W Mackie asked about the pavement area at Cander Bridge where water and mud is flooding onto the pavement from the field access causing pedestrians to walk on the road.

9.2 Councillor Young
Councillor Young passed out copies of his 10th Monthly report and stated that if anyone wished a copy to contact him he then outlined some of the items on his report.
· Lighting on Union street would be examined in New Year
· Area at Garrion Bridge may be raised when checked by Health & Safety.
· Planning Application for house development at cross-area would be re-named as it was felt that name would clash with Weavers court on Sidehead road.
· Weavers Court play facilities were being looked at with regards drainage.
· Christmas Lights festival committee still require support.
· Flooding at tile work park is now thought to be a natural occurrence and not due to house developments.
· Station park will receive sand slitting to assist drainage
· A lottery bid was being prepared to access money for events at bandstand.
· Planting in association with Scotland in Bloom has taken place at various locations around Stonehouse.
· A neighbourhood watch scheme has been organised by the residents of Bramble Bank
· Community Council is invited to Councillors book launch on 18th January 2002

9.3 Treasurer's Report
No spend from previous month.

9.4 Assistant Secretary
Gave a report on the planning applications submitted to SLC, which comprised of (a) Hill top Farm change of use, (b) Kane Place, (c) Townhead Street.

10. A.O.C.B

Cemetery water tap was raised. Councillor Young will investigate.

Meeting closed at 9.00 p.m. with next meetings scheduled for
Monday 21st January 2002.
Monday 18th February 2002
Monday 18th March 2002

Meetings all take place at Public Institute 7.00 committee members' 7.30 open to public.

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STONEHOUSE COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES Monday 17th December 2001

Chairman George Smith welcomed George McLaren to the meeting and intimated that George was the new local news correspondent for the Hamilton Advertiser.

1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES :
G Smith (Chairman) R Freel, H Burns, W Mackie, A Sloan, T Cooper, M Whitelaw.

Apologies: None

Present at Meeting:
Cllr Young & Cllr Burns, PC G. Forrest and six members of the public who signed the attendance record.

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES:

Chair asked those present to approve minutes, Councillor Young asked that the minutes be amended to reflect that MSP Karen Gillon had stated that she had spoken to Susan Deacon 30 minutes beforehand. It was agreed that this would be reflected in the December minutes. Those present then approved minutes.

Chair stated that he would now move to police matters as the Local constable had to wait at the previous meeting and that he was attending on his day off.

8. Police Report

The crime figures for the corresponding period since last meetings were as follows:
19 crimes in village of which there were 10 detected.
The breakdowns of crimes were 2 vandalism, 5 disorder, 1 Road traffic and 1 drunk and disorderly.
A £50K drug bust had taken place locally and drinking of alcohol in street was being tackled. Six warrants were issued in the last month.
Some discussion then took place on the parking problems associated with the cross at Union Street. Councillor Burns stated that the local councillors had been asked to comment on the first stage of parking restriction order within the village and that the next stage would be passed to community council. A resident reported that Sheeran's bin had been set on fire and that the walls at the community police office required some maintenance. Community police officer stated that he would report this to the property section.
Constable Forrest stated that he felt the police were being more productive and effective since the replacement of the other community officer as they could now collaborate. Dumping of car body parts was reported on Ashgill road.
Chairman thanked constable for attending on his day off and advised when next meeting would take place.

3. BUSINESS MATTERS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES:

(a) Twinning
Copies of the letter sent to Mr Smith of Kirkmuirhill had been circulated to all members and copies passed to both councillors. Members had decided to seek further details from SLC on the way forward and whether grants would be available. Councillor Burns will investigate and pass a contact name to secretary in order that they can write to an individual at council HQ. Crossford Community Council or an organisation were mentioned and Councillor Young will forward the details to secretary. The chairman would contact the chairman of the Irish village and the secretary would contact the others about any grants etc.

(b) Feasibility Study
Secretary apologised for not being able to attend however it was felt that the timing of any future meetings (this was at 6.00 p.m.) would have to be altered. The meeting itself was productive and encouraging that the consultants were able to put forward suggestions however the actual specification of the consultant's role was not totally clear and was rather open ended. A report is expected by end of December early January. Councillor Young also stated that the local plan was now being put up for consideration again.

4. CORRESPONDENCE IN & OUT
Secretary stated that a full list of correspondence was attached to the agenda. Anybody who wished to read the correspondence was welcome to do so.

Items discussed were.
(1) Letter from SLC Kenny Boag regards presentation secretary to write and ask him to attend January Meeting.
(2) Letter from Orange mobile telephones received from Cllr Young. Secretary to write and invite to February meeting.
(3) No details regard Dovesdale secretary to write to Bill Kirk.

5. SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL

Covered under 4 above, secretary has written concerning white lining and signage. Secretary intimated that new street signs were now in place and thanked councillors for assistance.
Conservation signs were still awaited.

6. HEALTH MATTERS

Chair outlined the current position of the hospital development and stated that he had received a letter from Martin Hill regarding the Scottish Executives request to pursue a PPI/PFI procurement initiative. Chair has written to Roy Garscadden outlining the community councils concerns. The Hamilton Advertiser has also been following up on this matter. Chair also stated that he had met with one of the trusts doctors informally who also showed some concern at the way in which the matter was developing.
MSP Karen Gillon was seeking a meeting with Malcolm Chisholm the new health minister regarding this breakdown in communications. The general consensus was that the build is under a PFI threshold and should be pursued via capital expenditure.
The community council needs to set up a meeting with Brendan Gill, meet with Karen Gillon as time is against the community.

7. UTILITIES:

Nothing to report

The meeting then moved to local councillor's reports.

9. REPORTS

9.1 Councillor Burns

9.3 Treasurer's Report
No spend from previous month.

9.4 Assistant Secretary
Gave a report on the planning applications submitted to SLC, which comprised of (a) Hill top Farm change of use, (b) Kane Place, (c) Townhead Street.

10. A.O.C.B

Cemetery water tap was raised. Councillor Young will investigate.

Meeting closed at 9.00 p.m. with next meetings scheduled for
Monday 21st January 2002.
Monday 18th February 2002
Monday 18th March 2002

Meetings all take place at Public Institute 7.00 committee members' 7.30 open to public.

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STONEHOUSE COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES Monday 19th November 2001

Chairman George Smith welcomed all those present to the meeting thanking the Community Policeman for coming along as well as our Member of Scottish Parliament (MSP) Karen Gillon. He congratulated the MSP on news of Karen's pregnancy. Chair stated that he would alter the procedure of the meeting to allow the MSP and Community Police officer the opportunity to answer questions from the body of the meeting following

1. MEMBERS PRESENT & APOLOGIES :
G Smith (Chairman) R Freel, H Burns, W Mackie, A Sloan, T Cooper

Apologies: M Whitelaw

Present at Meeting:
MSP Karen Gillon, Cllr Young & Cllr Burns and twelve members of the public all detailed within attendance record.

6. HEALTH MATTERS

Chair outlined the current position of the hospital development and stated that a number of local meetings with community council had been cancelled at short notice. He outlined the confusion that was arising from the Scottish Executive who were seeking to have the hospital funded by PPP. Cllrs. Young and Burns have been pushing politicians to move on this item. At this stage the chair asked our MSP to comment on the matter.
Karen Gillon gave an overview of the consultation process, which had involved the community council at various stages including model visitations. The business case had been approved and that she had spoken to the Minister Susan Deacon tonight to obtain an update. The minister had intimated that building process would follow the due procedure. Capital approval had been granted however confusion had arisen due to a question on PFI funding being raised. Karen intimated that she would be having a meeting with the minister within the next two weeks to gain further information on the funding issue.
The MSP also outlined the site implications and the need for the community council to be involved in any consultations.
A question on what would be left on site was asked with answer being basically all that was contained within original submission. (40 bed unit plus various out patient clinics, physiotherapy etc.
Various questions were asked concerning casualty options and minor injury clinics as well as deeds of hospital however chairman intimated that the community council had already explored and raised these issues with various parties.

Chair then asked those in attendance if they wished to take the opportunity to as our MSP any questions.
Councillor Young informed those present that he had sought clarification on truncking of A71 as it had the worst statistics in South Lanarkshire and hoped that the MSP would give it support.
Questions on policing were raised and the budgets given to police, however any monies passed to Strathclyde police was left to the Chief constable to prioritise his spend areas and some of this was for support teams which covered many areas but were prioritised. MSP stated that proposals coming from the Scottish Executive concerning community safety could eventually lead to Community Safety Plans.
Karen Gillon also outlined the procedure and expectations of an announcement by the Lord Advocate who was now in possession of the full case investigating the tragic accident at Larkhall where the gas explosion killed an entire family. It was to be hoped that an announcement would be made before the second anniversary of the tragedy.
Some discussion also took place on juvenile crime, parent's responsibility and EU human rights issues.
Chair Thanked Karen for attending.

The meeting then moved to local councillor's reports.

9. REPORTS

9.1 Councillor Young
Stated that he had handed over a written report and if anyone wished a copy to contact him he then outlined some of the items on his report, however due to other commitments he would have to leave shortly
· Councillor Young reported on build outs at Bramble Bank off Sidehead road and his discussions with roads department.
· When asked about East Mains he reported not enough residents were present at meeting to form group regards public liability.
· X-mas light programme was drawn up and issued.
· Councillor was asked about Patching work in Partickholm area, which had not been successful.
· Chair at this stage intimated that Hugh Smith had approached him with a letter from a small village in Ireland who would be interested in Twinning with a village of similar status. Chair felt that this was worthy of discussion and would issue a copy of the letter with approved minutes.

9.2 Councillor Burns
Issued a written copy of his report which covered the following
· Village Centre consultation, an update would be given at a public meeting on 10th December 6.00 p.m.
· Traffic problems Queen Street
· Anti social Behaviour, followed by discussion on problems
· Housing regeneration programme.
· Councillor Burns was asked to look at path in woods, which was in need of repair.

The chair then moved the meeting towards the police report and thanked the local community officer for being patient due to dealing with our MSP.

8. Police Report

Chairman apologised to the community police officer for delay in coming to the report however as MSP was present to talk on hospital and would have to leave early he decided that meeting should deal with this first.

Community Police Officer advised community council no minutes had been sent to police office, secretary responded that he was not aware from any paperwork when he took over post of secretary that they were normally sent and had assumed they were picked up at the meeting. As he was a former secretary he had never sent them on at that time.
All minutes would be sent out in future.
A replacement community police officer has now been allocated to Ashgill and Netherburn and they would now cover Stonehouse on his absence. New office was called Kenny Falconer.
Crime figures for period April 2001 to October were as follows -
Violence down 60%, Dishonesty down 60%, Vandalism down 12%
28 Crimes in the last month of which 14 were detected, 9 arrested on warrant, a quad bike was recovered. Church windows were smashed the previous Monday with two youths being lifted.
Coverage of village will be done in an unmarked car, and allow more areas to be covered. A question was asked about unmarked and non-uniforms response and they tended not to be first response due to identification issues
This ended the police report with chair thanking community officer for attending.

Chair then moved back to the published agenda.

2. PREVIOUS MINUTES:

Chair asked those present to approve minutes. Minutes Approved.

3. BUSINESS MATTERS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES:

Will be dealt with under each of the respective agenda headings

4. CORRESPONDENCE IN & OUT
Secretary stated that a full list of correspondence was attached to the agenda. Anybody who wished to read the correspondence was welcome to do so.

5. SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL

Covered under Councillors reports and meeting with Bill Kirk on Friday will be used to discuss various issues.
Roads
Proposal was put before the council regarding traffic calming the A71 at Strathaven road and community council was in agreement with it but was looking for additional speed calming at the entrance gateways.
Conservation signs were due and Hugh Burns reported on SLC proposals to speed up removal of burned out cars.

9. REPORTS

Treasurers Report £632.10 Treasurers Account, £1040.09 in 30 Day Account and .64p cash.

10. UTILITIES:

(1) New gas governor being fitted at Candermill Road was ongoing.
(2) H Burns reported on sewage transfer from Strathaven to Stonehouse for processing.
(3) It was also reported that drain or septic tank run off at garage required to be investigated councillor Young will investigate.

10. A.O.C.B

Nothing raised.

Meeting closed at 9.00 p.m. with next meeting scheduled for Monday 17th December 2001 at 4/5 the Cross.

Members were also reminded of meeting on 10th December on Halls and village centre feasibility study.

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