The AGM of the Marchmont & Sciennes Community Council will take place on
WEDNESDAY 11 JUNE 2008
At 7.00pm
ST. CATHERINE ARGYLE CHURCH HALL
GRANGE ROAD
Followed immediately by Ordinary Meeting
Then
SPECIAL MEETING at 8.00pm.
With Guest Speaker on Sustainable Communities
in HMO areas.
AGENDA
1. Minutes of the last AGM and matters arising.
2. Chairman’s Report.
3. Secretary’s Report.
4. Treasurer’s Report.
5. A.O.C.B.
6. Next AGM Wednesday 10 June 2009.
Wednesday, 11 June 2008
Agenda for Ordinary Meeting 11th June 2008
Agenda for Ordinary Meeting
WEDNESDAY 11 JUNE 2008 at 7.00pm in
St Catherine’s Argyle Church Community Hall, Grange Road
1. Sederunt and Apologies.
2. Minutes of Meeting held 14 May 2008.
3. Matters Arising.
4. Police Report.
5. Trams Update.
6. Nomination for Licensing Forum.
7. A.O.C.B.
8. Next Meeting Wednesday 10 September 2008.
WEDNESDAY 11 JUNE 2008 at 7.00pm in
St Catherine’s Argyle Church Community Hall, Grange Road
1. Sederunt and Apologies.
2. Minutes of Meeting held 14 May 2008.
3. Matters Arising.
4. Police Report.
5. Trams Update.
6. Nomination for Licensing Forum.
7. A.O.C.B.
8. Next Meeting Wednesday 10 September 2008.
Minutes of AGM 20th June 2008
Minutes of Annual General Meeting
Wednesday 20 June 2007 at St Catherine’s Argyle Community Hall, Grange Road, Edinburgh
Attendance
Elected Representatives: Susie Agnew, Tina Cumming, Ken Dougall, Hugh Leather, Melanie Main, Sarah Sandow, Linda Smith, Ruth Stroud.
Local Interest Group Representatives: Susanna Lacey; Cherry Ledlie, Dorothy Ryle.
Members and others: Mike Cumming, Cllr Alison Johnstone, Anne Laing, Sarah Marchbank, Audrey Simon, John Simon.
Apologies: Steve Burgess; PC Bruce Burt; Cllr McInnes; Cllr Marilyne MacLaren; Alastair Philp; Anne Laird; Mike Pringle MSP; Fiona Scott.
1 Minutes of the 2006 Annual General Meeting
Melanie Main explained that she was standing in for Anne Laird as Chair for the meeting. She welcomed attendees to the meeting and noted apologies. The minutes of the 2006 AGM were approved. (Proposed: Tina Cumming; Seconded: Susie Agnew)
2 Treasurer’s Report
Melanie Main explained that the 2005/06 accounts hadn’t been ready for approval at the last AGM, and that the MSCC accounts for both 2005/06 and 2006/07 were therefore being submitted for the group’s approval. A summary of both sets of accounts was tabled, and Melanie summarised that the finances are very healthy, with around £3000 in the bank.
There was a brief discussion of the accounts, and Melanie Main answered all queries raised. By general consensus the accounts were approved, and the group gratefully accepted Ed Skedd’s offer to continue as auditor.
ACTION
Ed Skedd will be sent a cheque for £50 as a token of the MSCC’s appreciation.
Anyone with ideas of worthwhile ways of spending some of the MSCC’s surplus money for the benefit of the local community should raise the issue at future meeting.
Hugh Leather will set up a private web-space to be viewed by MSCC members only. The accounts will be made available on this web-space, and regularly updated.
3 Chairwoman’s Report
Melanie Main read out Anne Laird’s report of the MSCC’s activities for 2006/07, and the group was happy to adopt this report as an accurate record.
ACTION
Hugh Leather will make the Chairwoman’s Report available on the MSCC blog.
4 Election of Office Bearers and Community Council Elected Member
4.1 Election of MSCC members
Tina Cumming nominated Sarah Marchbank to fill the remaining vacancy on the MSCC. This was seconded by Linda Smith, and Sarah was appointed a MSCC member.
4.2 Election of Chair
There being no volunteers for the role of Chair, Susie Agnew was asked if she would take on the role. Susie explained that she felt unsuited to the role, and unable to commit the time the role truly deserves. However, in the absence of volunteers, she agreed to accept the role until a replacement chair could be found, and on the condition MSCC members and attendees would play an active role in volunteering to undertake action points arising from the meetings. Susie Agnew was therefore appointed MSCC chair. (Proposed: Dorothy Ryle; seconded: Sarah Sandow.)
4.3 Election of Secretary
Susannah Lacey nominated Hugh Leather as Secretary. This was seconded by Ken Dougall, and Hugh Leather was appointed MSCC Secretary.
4.4 Election of Treasurer
Anne Laing nominated Sarah Marchbank as Treasurer. This was seconded by Sarah Sandow, and Sarah Marchbank was appointed MSCC Treasurer.
4.5 Election of Vice Chair
Linda Smith nominated Anne Laird as Vice Chair. This was seconded by Ken Dougall, and Anne Laird was appointed MSCC Vice Chair.
5 Any other business
A number of other issues were discussed during the meeting:
5.1 Matters Arising from 2006 AGM
Melanie Main updated the group:
Money has been made available for a memorial tree for Mr Harris and this matter is progressing.
Edinburgh City Council has decided to go ahead with the proposed street refurbishment in Marchmont (draft plans for this refurbishment were presented at the March MSCC meeting). Council representatives would like to come to a future meeting of the MSCC to discuss the refurbishment further with local residents.
5.2 Grant application
Melanie Main explained that the Council’s planned street refurbishment will remove the need for the MSSC to obtain a grant to pay for new notice boards for that area, and that the MSCC has the option of withdrawing its current grant application and re-presenting an amended application. The group discussed other possible improvements that might be included in an amended grant application, including:
The need to make improvements to those areas of Marchmont not included in the Council’s planned street refurbishment.
The possibility of putting a notice board in the Causewayside area.
The replacement of the broken bench at the west end of the cemetery.
ACTION
Melanie Main will look into the possible revision of the grant application after the summer.
5.3 Blog
ACTION
Hugh Leather will give a presentation at a future MSCC meeting explaining how the blog works, including an explanation of a function that allows certain areas of webspace to be accessible to MSCC members only.
Hugh Leather will look into ensuring those without internet access can access relevant information from the blog.
The meeting concluded, and the ordinary meeting of the MSCC began.
Wednesday 20 June 2007 at St Catherine’s Argyle Community Hall, Grange Road, Edinburgh
Attendance
Elected Representatives: Susie Agnew, Tina Cumming, Ken Dougall, Hugh Leather, Melanie Main, Sarah Sandow, Linda Smith, Ruth Stroud.
Local Interest Group Representatives: Susanna Lacey; Cherry Ledlie, Dorothy Ryle.
Members and others: Mike Cumming, Cllr Alison Johnstone, Anne Laing, Sarah Marchbank, Audrey Simon, John Simon.
Apologies: Steve Burgess; PC Bruce Burt; Cllr McInnes; Cllr Marilyne MacLaren; Alastair Philp; Anne Laird; Mike Pringle MSP; Fiona Scott.
1 Minutes of the 2006 Annual General Meeting
Melanie Main explained that she was standing in for Anne Laird as Chair for the meeting. She welcomed attendees to the meeting and noted apologies. The minutes of the 2006 AGM were approved. (Proposed: Tina Cumming; Seconded: Susie Agnew)
2 Treasurer’s Report
Melanie Main explained that the 2005/06 accounts hadn’t been ready for approval at the last AGM, and that the MSCC accounts for both 2005/06 and 2006/07 were therefore being submitted for the group’s approval. A summary of both sets of accounts was tabled, and Melanie summarised that the finances are very healthy, with around £3000 in the bank.
There was a brief discussion of the accounts, and Melanie Main answered all queries raised. By general consensus the accounts were approved, and the group gratefully accepted Ed Skedd’s offer to continue as auditor.
ACTION
Ed Skedd will be sent a cheque for £50 as a token of the MSCC’s appreciation.
Anyone with ideas of worthwhile ways of spending some of the MSCC’s surplus money for the benefit of the local community should raise the issue at future meeting.
Hugh Leather will set up a private web-space to be viewed by MSCC members only. The accounts will be made available on this web-space, and regularly updated.
3 Chairwoman’s Report
Melanie Main read out Anne Laird’s report of the MSCC’s activities for 2006/07, and the group was happy to adopt this report as an accurate record.
ACTION
Hugh Leather will make the Chairwoman’s Report available on the MSCC blog.
4 Election of Office Bearers and Community Council Elected Member
4.1 Election of MSCC members
Tina Cumming nominated Sarah Marchbank to fill the remaining vacancy on the MSCC. This was seconded by Linda Smith, and Sarah was appointed a MSCC member.
4.2 Election of Chair
There being no volunteers for the role of Chair, Susie Agnew was asked if she would take on the role. Susie explained that she felt unsuited to the role, and unable to commit the time the role truly deserves. However, in the absence of volunteers, she agreed to accept the role until a replacement chair could be found, and on the condition MSCC members and attendees would play an active role in volunteering to undertake action points arising from the meetings. Susie Agnew was therefore appointed MSCC chair. (Proposed: Dorothy Ryle; seconded: Sarah Sandow.)
4.3 Election of Secretary
Susannah Lacey nominated Hugh Leather as Secretary. This was seconded by Ken Dougall, and Hugh Leather was appointed MSCC Secretary.
4.4 Election of Treasurer
Anne Laing nominated Sarah Marchbank as Treasurer. This was seconded by Sarah Sandow, and Sarah Marchbank was appointed MSCC Treasurer.
4.5 Election of Vice Chair
Linda Smith nominated Anne Laird as Vice Chair. This was seconded by Ken Dougall, and Anne Laird was appointed MSCC Vice Chair.
5 Any other business
A number of other issues were discussed during the meeting:
5.1 Matters Arising from 2006 AGM
Melanie Main updated the group:
Money has been made available for a memorial tree for Mr Harris and this matter is progressing.
Edinburgh City Council has decided to go ahead with the proposed street refurbishment in Marchmont (draft plans for this refurbishment were presented at the March MSCC meeting). Council representatives would like to come to a future meeting of the MSCC to discuss the refurbishment further with local residents.
5.2 Grant application
Melanie Main explained that the Council’s planned street refurbishment will remove the need for the MSSC to obtain a grant to pay for new notice boards for that area, and that the MSCC has the option of withdrawing its current grant application and re-presenting an amended application. The group discussed other possible improvements that might be included in an amended grant application, including:
The need to make improvements to those areas of Marchmont not included in the Council’s planned street refurbishment.
The possibility of putting a notice board in the Causewayside area.
The replacement of the broken bench at the west end of the cemetery.
ACTION
Melanie Main will look into the possible revision of the grant application after the summer.
5.3 Blog
ACTION
Hugh Leather will give a presentation at a future MSCC meeting explaining how the blog works, including an explanation of a function that allows certain areas of webspace to be accessible to MSCC members only.
Hugh Leather will look into ensuring those without internet access can access relevant information from the blog.
The meeting concluded, and the ordinary meeting of the MSCC began.
Minutes of meeting 14th May 2008
Minutes of meeting held on 14th May 2008
In St Catherine Argyle Church Community Hall, Grange Road, 7.30pm
1 Sederunt
Anne Laird (Chair), Susanna Lacey (Secretary and Minutes)
LindsayThomson (Police),Alastair Philp(NP) Cherry Ledlie(JGPS Safe routes to school), Dorothy Ryle (Grange Association), Brian Harris (Magpie) Josh McAlister (EUSA)
Tina Cumming,,Claire MacGregor, Sarah Sandow, M.Malik, Cllr Mark McInnes, Linda Smith, Fiona Savage, John Simon, Audrey Simon, Ruth Stroud, Neil Brierley, Peter Warren, Margo MacDonald MSP, David Rintoul
2.Apologies
Susie Agnew, Mike Pringle MSP, Mike Shields, Fiona Scott, Cllr Steve Burgess, Cllr Cameron Rose, Cllr Allison Johnstone, Sarah Marchbanks, Anne Laing, Cllr Marylin McLaren
3. Minutes of meeting held 9th April 2008
Amendment “on behalf of Friends of the Meadows and Bruntsfield Links”
The minutes were accepted as a true record. Proposed: Linda Smith; Seconded: Cherry Ledlie.
4. Matters Arising
Chair requested to suspend matters arising to move swiftly onto police report followed by Margo MacDonald to speak on HMO’s
4 Police Report
PC Lindsey Thomson provided an update on crime trends in Marchmont and mentioned that PC Neil Sinclair, based in St Leonards is the new community beat officer for Sciennes area.
2x break-ins to business premises- both solved
Cycle theft is prolific, 6 stolen this month, slightly less than average. 2 have been solved.
Motor theft I theft and 2 attempts—none solved
Vandalism to vehicles on Marchmont Rd but no witnesses.
No graffitti reported
Minor assault 26th April on Meadows by youth 15-17yrs old. He attacked a man at 2am and then he attacked a couple at 2.10am
Sexual Offences
9th May 11pm report from 2 female students that a male 30yrs old followed them and exposed himself. He had thick wavy shoulder length hair and was wearing beige shorts.
16th April 10pm Similar incident. Female returning home was propositioned by a man standing under a lampost who then approached and tried to make contact with her. CID are following this up.
Summer plans for zero tolerance: in August there will be environmental wardens patrolling until 2am to combat violence and sexual crimes.There will be Police vans with CCTV cameras.
PC Lindsay then invited MSCC to make any suggestions as to how best to concentrate resources in the Meadows.
The Police will be watching for under 18yrs approaching off-licences. They will be using youngsters to attempt “test purchases of alcohol” to detect offending shopkeepers.
Margo MacDonald enquired if the police will challenge the licenses of offending off licences who have been targetted. The police can object to a licence and the licensing department can suspend it. Cllr Marjorie Thomas is addressing this.
5 HMO Discussion
The Chair and welcomed Margot Macdonald and Peter Warren who were attending to hear the discussion and Josh McAlister from EUSA. She said that she welcomed his participation and that the MSCC community benefited from the student presence. She introduced the discussion by summarising the difference between planning and licensing in HMOs. She wanted the discussion to consider whether there were too many HMOS and if so should these be restricted in some way. One of the problems was that HMOs in tenements differed in its effect from an HMO in ahouse. If there were too many HMOs would this ultimately affect the viability of the community... The need for the discussion was prompted by some complaints from residents received recentlyby members of the Community Council and the “Right to Rent” campaign launched by the students. It was some time since there had been discussion on this topic and the MSCC felt it was useful to identify where there might be problems and ascertain whether the community wished them to take further action and if so what action.
Margo MacDonald said that as she was living in this area, and as she was aware that there was a problem regarding HMO’s, she was willing to help build any bridges of communication which needed to be built and wanted to hear the views of the Community.
The recent “right to rent” campaign of local students had been aimed to influence MSPs
.
Alastair Philp said it would be useful to know why the students had started this campaign.
Josh McAlister said that following the recent SPP3 discussion, students had been concerned that planning laws were to be changed and the changes to a “quota” system would disadvantage students looking for rented accommodation. They were willing to engage with local communities in discussing solutions.
Susanna Lacey said that Government was addressing the problem through Planning to maintain sustainable communities while at the city council level the issue could be tackled via licensing departments limiting the numbers of HMO’s in an area.
Cllr Mark McInnes said the CEC were looking again at the quota system. Chris Wigglesworth conducted a study for the licensing dept but the paper was not signed through as there were concerns that controlling the HMO balance might lead to homelessness. Colin Keir has said that he will start proceedings now to look at this again
Josh McAlister asked again why there was a need to limit HMO’s. If the CEC took this action, then the students will take it to the Government level via student/city forums. He reminded MSCC that for students this is the first time that they are moving into the rented sector and that there is a shortage of flats.
The Chair asked what problems were encountered by MSCC members.
A number of people gave examples of problems they had encountered:
One member has made complaints regularly. 3 flats were suspended for 6 months but their licences will be renewed to coincide with arrival of new students at the start of term. There are 3 HMO’s with 5 students in each of these 4 bedroomed flats. They put fat down the drain, the door lock to the stair is always broken. The local residents have to pay for repairs caused by tenants of a landlord who is making a lot of money out of them. They complain, the landlord gets his licence renewed and nothing changes. The landlord is indifferent. The council is ineffectual.
The residents are disturbed by the constant noise through the wall, through the ceiling and in the shared back green.
Another member said he has a similar problem with the student neighbours and an absentee landlord.
A third member: there is also the problem when 5 people share a flat and then each brings in a partner so that there are 10 people living in a four bedroomed flat.
A fourth member also has problems from people in HMO flat above. She put in a complaint but nothing happened, the case was closed and the situation remains unchanged.
Josh McAlister said that if there is a problem with the numbers in a flat then licensing will come round to check. The feeling of the meeting was that this did not happen in practice.
Young professionals are a large part of HMO occupiers. He suggests a list of named HMO occupiers and carpets to muffle the noise. He asked what is a sustainable community, and who decides what is sustainable. The fact is that the student population in Edinburgh has doubled. He quoted figures of 2500 HMO’s in Glasgow where there is capping and 5100 HMO’s in Edinburgh where there is no capping.
Susanna Lacey reminded him that Glasgow has a very high proportion of domicillary students.
It was suggested that provision of purpose built property for students might be an answer to the problem
A resident who has lived in the area for 35 years said he was not aware of any problem and has not noticed any change in that time.
Margo McDonald said that one of the concerns of the CEC would be the provision of schools and how to decide what was required. If there are no young families what will happen to the schools in the area..
A resident pointed out the difference in hours that are kept, the difference in age groups, difference in lifestyle is one of the factors that causes problems.
Josh McAlister stated that there is an increase in postgraduate and international students with longer study periods and this should result in a change in the behaviour.
Another disagreed that there has been no change in the area. The licensing laws have changed and now young people do not go out until 11pm. Previously that is when they would be expected to return to their homes. Houses were built as a family home. These buildings are not being used as they were intended. It is wrong to have so many HMO’s
Another questioned poised was who looks after the stairs if there are too many HMO’s. Students don’t bother with maintenance of the tenements and don’t contact the landlord about problems they are having.
Some of the problems stem from landlords. There are the duties of a landlord. But there have been only two attempts at prosecution of landlords in the last two years.
Another member said that she has benefited from having some very good student neighbours.
Mark McInnes: people feel frustrated with the regulatory committee. If there is a problem they should use the powers they have. Councillors have been told that there is a conflict of interest if they try to represent the case for individual residents to the regulatory committee. This should be investigated
The Chair summed up the discussion: HMO’s were still causing problems in the area. The problems discussed were:
1. tenements not suited for overpopulation – tenants bringing in partners sometimes leads to overpopulation
2. regulatory process not satisfactory
3. there are some areas where the building structures are different and changing their use from their original purpose is not good.
4. need to improve the relationship between citizens and city council
5. Anti social behaviour is a separate issue but there can be a cause for concern in HMO properties; The regulatory must be made aware that the noise levels in HMO’s has gone up
6. The consensus seem to be that the regulatory authorities did not use the powers they had
Margo Macdonald said: The council are changing their housing policy to provide more affordable housing and that includes students. 25% affordable housing has been suggested for Edinburgh and 12% of the total population is student. Purpose built accommodation is required to maintain and increase the level of available rented accommodation.
Alastair Philp, representative on the Neighbourhood partnership, knew of no plan to change licensing policy.
Susanna Lacey suggested that perhaps Community Councils could ask Edinburgh City Council to reduce the time lag between complaints being made and decisions being taken. Enforcement should be improved and fines should be greatly increased.
Mark will find out when Colin Keir intends to meet with CC’s. He may decide to meet also with Neighbourhood Partnerships. Mark will also find out more about the paper which was produced last year and suggests that the council solicitor moves forward with regard to licensing.
MargoMacDonald said she had a vested interest in her constituents. Margo Macdonald and Mark McInnes will communicate to decide what standards need to be put in place.
Mark McInnes will report to the community council. A meeting has been suggested with Colin Keir and the CC’s.
The Chair asked whether any action should be taken with regard to planning eg should we ask that flats be considered differently from houses in planning regulations.
Margo MacDonald thought it best to go down the regulatory process and improve that process. There was a general consensus that this was what was required. Josh McAlister will keep in contact so that he is kept informed of any proposals for change
Action: As outlined above. Mark McInnes will report back on progress to the next meeting.
6.Consultation of Draft for Community Council Scheme and Code of Conduct
These documents are very extensive and will be put onto the blog
www.marchmondandsciennes.blogspot.com
Hard copies will also be obtained before the next meeting. Responses can then be submitted to the Secretary who will forward to Community Council Consultation at Victoria Quay
7.Marchmont Shopping Bag.
There will be an event to launch the shopping bag which will be on sale for £1 .
8.Neighbourhood Partnership
8.1. Motion to recommend installation of bollards after the “ramraid” driving a vehicle into a post office
8.2. Change to controlled parking regulations to include 9hr parking bays in Merchiston
8.3. Environmental forum, housing, tasking(police), improving quality of life in Dumbiedykes
8.4. Training sessions for NP members: understanding committees
8.5. Each NP is allocated £100,000 for roads and footways improvemnet
8.6 Presentation on the very productive and beneficial partnership of the NP, Tollcross and the Traders Association
8.7 Community Grant Application from Meadows Festival. £5000 awarded in principle.
8.8 Funds for streetscape can come from NP £100,000
9. South Edinburgh Public Partnership Forum (Health)
On 10th Dec 2007 the group was suspended. North is running smoothly, but South has had some conflict with an exchange of abusive e-mails. EVOC were called in and they interviewed everyone involved.
They are continuing as an informal group and getting through the work of the consultation documents.
A co-ordinating group is to be formed from among the 54 members to run the Forum for 1 year.
The problem may have been the domination of the community council groups and it was suggested that there should be only one member from each community council. Everyone wants the Forum to be successful, so as to have the opportunity to improve services and address the inequalities in health. (Ruth Stroud)
10.AOCB
10.1. Local Neighbourhood Plan: 4 groups to determine priorities. Southside Newington had different priorities from outlying groups. Priorities were graffiti, litter, bins and an electronic, secure voting system was used. (John Simon)
10.2 Meadows Place Closure. A study has been carried out by Neil Brierley which shows that cyclists are not really inconvenienced and in fact closing Meadows Place would be counterproductive.
Mark McInnes has made it clear to the Council that he and Maryline McLaren are not in favour of closure
Brian Harris suggests that police data is essential. There have been 10 accidents in 2 years.
10.3.Edinburgh Association of Community Councils will host their AGM on 21st June. Details on blog.
10.4.Tram Update. There will be a meeting to discuss the Trams on 29th May 7-9 pm.
11. Date of Next meeting is 11th June 2008. This will be the AGM followed by the general meeting.
In St Catherine Argyle Church Community Hall, Grange Road, 7.30pm
1 Sederunt
Anne Laird (Chair), Susanna Lacey (Secretary and Minutes)
LindsayThomson (Police),Alastair Philp(NP) Cherry Ledlie(JGPS Safe routes to school), Dorothy Ryle (Grange Association), Brian Harris (Magpie) Josh McAlister (EUSA)
Tina Cumming,,Claire MacGregor, Sarah Sandow, M.Malik, Cllr Mark McInnes, Linda Smith, Fiona Savage, John Simon, Audrey Simon, Ruth Stroud, Neil Brierley, Peter Warren, Margo MacDonald MSP, David Rintoul
2.Apologies
Susie Agnew, Mike Pringle MSP, Mike Shields, Fiona Scott, Cllr Steve Burgess, Cllr Cameron Rose, Cllr Allison Johnstone, Sarah Marchbanks, Anne Laing, Cllr Marylin McLaren
3. Minutes of meeting held 9th April 2008
Amendment “on behalf of Friends of the Meadows and Bruntsfield Links”
The minutes were accepted as a true record. Proposed: Linda Smith; Seconded: Cherry Ledlie.
4. Matters Arising
Chair requested to suspend matters arising to move swiftly onto police report followed by Margo MacDonald to speak on HMO’s
4 Police Report
PC Lindsey Thomson provided an update on crime trends in Marchmont and mentioned that PC Neil Sinclair, based in St Leonards is the new community beat officer for Sciennes area.
2x break-ins to business premises- both solved
Cycle theft is prolific, 6 stolen this month, slightly less than average. 2 have been solved.
Motor theft I theft and 2 attempts—none solved
Vandalism to vehicles on Marchmont Rd but no witnesses.
No graffitti reported
Minor assault 26th April on Meadows by youth 15-17yrs old. He attacked a man at 2am and then he attacked a couple at 2.10am
Sexual Offences
9th May 11pm report from 2 female students that a male 30yrs old followed them and exposed himself. He had thick wavy shoulder length hair and was wearing beige shorts.
16th April 10pm Similar incident. Female returning home was propositioned by a man standing under a lampost who then approached and tried to make contact with her. CID are following this up.
Summer plans for zero tolerance: in August there will be environmental wardens patrolling until 2am to combat violence and sexual crimes.There will be Police vans with CCTV cameras.
PC Lindsay then invited MSCC to make any suggestions as to how best to concentrate resources in the Meadows.
The Police will be watching for under 18yrs approaching off-licences. They will be using youngsters to attempt “test purchases of alcohol” to detect offending shopkeepers.
Margo MacDonald enquired if the police will challenge the licenses of offending off licences who have been targetted. The police can object to a licence and the licensing department can suspend it. Cllr Marjorie Thomas is addressing this.
5 HMO Discussion
The Chair and welcomed Margot Macdonald and Peter Warren who were attending to hear the discussion and Josh McAlister from EUSA. She said that she welcomed his participation and that the MSCC community benefited from the student presence. She introduced the discussion by summarising the difference between planning and licensing in HMOs. She wanted the discussion to consider whether there were too many HMOS and if so should these be restricted in some way. One of the problems was that HMOs in tenements differed in its effect from an HMO in ahouse. If there were too many HMOs would this ultimately affect the viability of the community... The need for the discussion was prompted by some complaints from residents received recentlyby members of the Community Council and the “Right to Rent” campaign launched by the students. It was some time since there had been discussion on this topic and the MSCC felt it was useful to identify where there might be problems and ascertain whether the community wished them to take further action and if so what action.
Margo MacDonald said that as she was living in this area, and as she was aware that there was a problem regarding HMO’s, she was willing to help build any bridges of communication which needed to be built and wanted to hear the views of the Community.
The recent “right to rent” campaign of local students had been aimed to influence MSPs
.
Alastair Philp said it would be useful to know why the students had started this campaign.
Josh McAlister said that following the recent SPP3 discussion, students had been concerned that planning laws were to be changed and the changes to a “quota” system would disadvantage students looking for rented accommodation. They were willing to engage with local communities in discussing solutions.
Susanna Lacey said that Government was addressing the problem through Planning to maintain sustainable communities while at the city council level the issue could be tackled via licensing departments limiting the numbers of HMO’s in an area.
Cllr Mark McInnes said the CEC were looking again at the quota system. Chris Wigglesworth conducted a study for the licensing dept but the paper was not signed through as there were concerns that controlling the HMO balance might lead to homelessness. Colin Keir has said that he will start proceedings now to look at this again
Josh McAlister asked again why there was a need to limit HMO’s. If the CEC took this action, then the students will take it to the Government level via student/city forums. He reminded MSCC that for students this is the first time that they are moving into the rented sector and that there is a shortage of flats.
The Chair asked what problems were encountered by MSCC members.
A number of people gave examples of problems they had encountered:
One member has made complaints regularly. 3 flats were suspended for 6 months but their licences will be renewed to coincide with arrival of new students at the start of term. There are 3 HMO’s with 5 students in each of these 4 bedroomed flats. They put fat down the drain, the door lock to the stair is always broken. The local residents have to pay for repairs caused by tenants of a landlord who is making a lot of money out of them. They complain, the landlord gets his licence renewed and nothing changes. The landlord is indifferent. The council is ineffectual.
The residents are disturbed by the constant noise through the wall, through the ceiling and in the shared back green.
Another member said he has a similar problem with the student neighbours and an absentee landlord.
A third member: there is also the problem when 5 people share a flat and then each brings in a partner so that there are 10 people living in a four bedroomed flat.
A fourth member also has problems from people in HMO flat above. She put in a complaint but nothing happened, the case was closed and the situation remains unchanged.
Josh McAlister said that if there is a problem with the numbers in a flat then licensing will come round to check. The feeling of the meeting was that this did not happen in practice.
Young professionals are a large part of HMO occupiers. He suggests a list of named HMO occupiers and carpets to muffle the noise. He asked what is a sustainable community, and who decides what is sustainable. The fact is that the student population in Edinburgh has doubled. He quoted figures of 2500 HMO’s in Glasgow where there is capping and 5100 HMO’s in Edinburgh where there is no capping.
Susanna Lacey reminded him that Glasgow has a very high proportion of domicillary students.
It was suggested that provision of purpose built property for students might be an answer to the problem
A resident who has lived in the area for 35 years said he was not aware of any problem and has not noticed any change in that time.
Margo McDonald said that one of the concerns of the CEC would be the provision of schools and how to decide what was required. If there are no young families what will happen to the schools in the area..
A resident pointed out the difference in hours that are kept, the difference in age groups, difference in lifestyle is one of the factors that causes problems.
Josh McAlister stated that there is an increase in postgraduate and international students with longer study periods and this should result in a change in the behaviour.
Another disagreed that there has been no change in the area. The licensing laws have changed and now young people do not go out until 11pm. Previously that is when they would be expected to return to their homes. Houses were built as a family home. These buildings are not being used as they were intended. It is wrong to have so many HMO’s
Another questioned poised was who looks after the stairs if there are too many HMO’s. Students don’t bother with maintenance of the tenements and don’t contact the landlord about problems they are having.
Some of the problems stem from landlords. There are the duties of a landlord. But there have been only two attempts at prosecution of landlords in the last two years.
Another member said that she has benefited from having some very good student neighbours.
Mark McInnes: people feel frustrated with the regulatory committee. If there is a problem they should use the powers they have. Councillors have been told that there is a conflict of interest if they try to represent the case for individual residents to the regulatory committee. This should be investigated
The Chair summed up the discussion: HMO’s were still causing problems in the area. The problems discussed were:
1. tenements not suited for overpopulation – tenants bringing in partners sometimes leads to overpopulation
2. regulatory process not satisfactory
3. there are some areas where the building structures are different and changing their use from their original purpose is not good.
4. need to improve the relationship between citizens and city council
5. Anti social behaviour is a separate issue but there can be a cause for concern in HMO properties; The regulatory must be made aware that the noise levels in HMO’s has gone up
6. The consensus seem to be that the regulatory authorities did not use the powers they had
Margo Macdonald said: The council are changing their housing policy to provide more affordable housing and that includes students. 25% affordable housing has been suggested for Edinburgh and 12% of the total population is student. Purpose built accommodation is required to maintain and increase the level of available rented accommodation.
Alastair Philp, representative on the Neighbourhood partnership, knew of no plan to change licensing policy.
Susanna Lacey suggested that perhaps Community Councils could ask Edinburgh City Council to reduce the time lag between complaints being made and decisions being taken. Enforcement should be improved and fines should be greatly increased.
Mark will find out when Colin Keir intends to meet with CC’s. He may decide to meet also with Neighbourhood Partnerships. Mark will also find out more about the paper which was produced last year and suggests that the council solicitor moves forward with regard to licensing.
MargoMacDonald said she had a vested interest in her constituents. Margo Macdonald and Mark McInnes will communicate to decide what standards need to be put in place.
Mark McInnes will report to the community council. A meeting has been suggested with Colin Keir and the CC’s.
The Chair asked whether any action should be taken with regard to planning eg should we ask that flats be considered differently from houses in planning regulations.
Margo MacDonald thought it best to go down the regulatory process and improve that process. There was a general consensus that this was what was required. Josh McAlister will keep in contact so that he is kept informed of any proposals for change
Action: As outlined above. Mark McInnes will report back on progress to the next meeting.
6.Consultation of Draft for Community Council Scheme and Code of Conduct
These documents are very extensive and will be put onto the blog
www.marchmondandsciennes.blogspot.com
Hard copies will also be obtained before the next meeting. Responses can then be submitted to the Secretary who will forward to Community Council Consultation at Victoria Quay
7.Marchmont Shopping Bag.
There will be an event to launch the shopping bag which will be on sale for £1 .
8.Neighbourhood Partnership
8.1. Motion to recommend installation of bollards after the “ramraid” driving a vehicle into a post office
8.2. Change to controlled parking regulations to include 9hr parking bays in Merchiston
8.3. Environmental forum, housing, tasking(police), improving quality of life in Dumbiedykes
8.4. Training sessions for NP members: understanding committees
8.5. Each NP is allocated £100,000 for roads and footways improvemnet
8.6 Presentation on the very productive and beneficial partnership of the NP, Tollcross and the Traders Association
8.7 Community Grant Application from Meadows Festival. £5000 awarded in principle.
8.8 Funds for streetscape can come from NP £100,000
9. South Edinburgh Public Partnership Forum (Health)
On 10th Dec 2007 the group was suspended. North is running smoothly, but South has had some conflict with an exchange of abusive e-mails. EVOC were called in and they interviewed everyone involved.
They are continuing as an informal group and getting through the work of the consultation documents.
A co-ordinating group is to be formed from among the 54 members to run the Forum for 1 year.
The problem may have been the domination of the community council groups and it was suggested that there should be only one member from each community council. Everyone wants the Forum to be successful, so as to have the opportunity to improve services and address the inequalities in health. (Ruth Stroud)
10.AOCB
10.1. Local Neighbourhood Plan: 4 groups to determine priorities. Southside Newington had different priorities from outlying groups. Priorities were graffiti, litter, bins and an electronic, secure voting system was used. (John Simon)
10.2 Meadows Place Closure. A study has been carried out by Neil Brierley which shows that cyclists are not really inconvenienced and in fact closing Meadows Place would be counterproductive.
Mark McInnes has made it clear to the Council that he and Maryline McLaren are not in favour of closure
Brian Harris suggests that police data is essential. There have been 10 accidents in 2 years.
10.3.Edinburgh Association of Community Councils will host their AGM on 21st June. Details on blog.
10.4.Tram Update. There will be a meeting to discuss the Trams on 29th May 7-9 pm.
11. Date of Next meeting is 11th June 2008. This will be the AGM followed by the general meeting.
Tuesday, 27 May 2008
Leader's Report - May 2008
Edinburgh City Council Leader's report can be accessed by clicking on link below.
Councillor Jenny Dawe
Leader – The City of Edinburgh Council
Leaders Report
Councillor Jenny Dawe
Leader – The City of Edinburgh Council
Leaders Report
Tram Fact Sheet May 2008
The construction programme that
will see trams running on the streets
of Edinburgh by 2011 has been
announced. The programme will
see infrastructure works start from
May 2008 until January 2011 and it is
anticipated that a full revenue service
will be in place by July 2011.
The contract also includes an extension of the hours of working
for contractors to 7am to 7pm (Monday to Saturday) in response
to the wishes of Edinburgh’s business community and to further
minimise the impact of the project.
During the ongoing construction period the project will continue
to plan diversions carefully in close collaboration with the City of
Edinburgh Council, Lothian Buses, Lothian and Borders Police and
the emergency services in order to ensure minimum disruption.
As the next phase of the project progresses, rails will start to be
laid and tram stops will be built, and the people of Edinburgh will
be able to see exactly where trams will run on our streets.
The Edinburgh Tram project brings together world renowned
organisations including Bilfinger Berger Siemens (BBS), CAF,
Carillion, SDS and Transdev and together with tie these
organisations will deliver a world class tram system for
Edinburgh, its citizens and visitors.
“Now that the construction programme
has been announced, we are at the cusp
of delivering what we have promised –
a world class public transport system
in our Capital.
We have struck the correct balance between price,
programme, quality of the finished product and certainty
of cost in agreeing this construction programme.
The utility diversion work continues to progress to
programme and to budget. Clearance of utility sites
has commenced in Leith Walk and this will continue
throughout the route in preparation for the infrastructure
work to begin this year.
The start of the infrastructure work in May 2008 will
see the nature of the construction change with rails being
installed from August 2008. I’m certain that the people of
Edinburgh will look forward to seeing the physical attributes
of the tram develop before them.
Throughout construction, tie will continue to work closely
with its business and community partners and contractors
to ensure that the city remains open for business while
tram work takes place. This is an exciting time and brings
us another step closer to a fully-integrated public transport
network befitting a capital city.”
May 2008 Fact Sheet
Tram construction programme announced
as scheme moves to next phase
Building the infrastructure
(Infraco)
The tram infrastructure work will start
in May 2008 and between mid-May and
end of June 2008 this work includes:
On-Street
• Excavation for piling at Russell
Road Bridge
• Site clearance in Russell Road / Roseburn
Street for retaining walls and demolition
of existing buildings
• Demolition of Caledonian Ale House
• Set-up for accommodation works at
Murrayfield Stadium
• Commencement of excavation for
Haymarket Viaduct
Off-Street
• Preloading of embankment at site
of Gogarburn Bridge
• Completion of removal of gas main
and water main at Depot site
• Gyle Stop retaining wall
Key Programme Dates
for Line 1a
December 2008
MUDFA programme complete
January 2009
Princes Street closure to traffic
until July 2009
Work starts on Haymarket Junction
2009
Track laying throughout route
January 2010
Work starts on Picardy Place junction
Spring 2010
Gogar Depot completed
Winter 2010
Commence testing and commissioning
of tram vehicles
July 2011
Full revenue service running
Tram vehicles
A new tram film was released
earlier this year showing the
trams at several locations along
the route. The common branding
with Lothian Buses will reflect
Edinburgh’s integrated transport
network, providing joint ticketing
and information. You can view
the film on the homepage of
www.tramsforedinburgh.com.
www.tramsforedinburgh.com telephone: 0131 623 8726
Edinburgh’s businesses will remain open and accessible and welcome your continued patronage.
Willie Gallagher,
tie Executive Chairman
Bankhead Ocean Terminal
May 2008 Fact Sheet
www.tramsforedinburgh.com telephone: 0131 623 8726
Who’s who?
Construction Consortium (Infraco) –
Bilfinger Berger Siemens
• Responsible for civil engineering including
earthworks, structures and roads plus
laying the tracks, building tram stops
and the overhead line equipment
• Also assuming responsibility for SDS
and Tramco through contract novation
• Due to be completed 2011
Tram Manufacturer (Tramco) - CAF
• Responsible for supplying 27 trams,
maintenance equipment and structural
warranty for up to 30 years
• Contract to be novated to Infraco contract
• First trams to be tested 2010
Utility Diversions (MUDFA) -
Carillion
• Now Carillion after take over of Alfred
McAlpine in 2008
• Responsible for all utility diversions
along the route including water, gas
and telecoms in preparation for the
infrastructure works
• To be completed December 2008
Detailed Design - SDS (System
Design Services)
• Contract awarded to Parsons Brinkerhoff
and Halcrow
• Responsible for detailed design of the
tram route and consultation
• To be novated to the Infraco contract
• Due to be completed 2008
Tram Operator -
Transdev Edinburgh Tram
• Responsible for technical advice through
the procurement and delivery phases, plus
operating resources to assist with testing
and commissioning
• Transdev to operate the system from
2004 for 15 years
In May and June major utility
diversion works (MUDFA)
will be commencing/ongoing
in the following areas:
• Gogar Depot
• The Gyle
• Shandwick Place
• Princes Street
• St Andrew Square
• South St David Street
• Leith Walk
• Constitution Street
• Ocean Drive & Ocean Terminal
• Edinburgh Park Station to
Forrester High School
• Haymarket Station to Roseburn
• Montgomery Street to London
Road Roundabout
In addition to the above,
the following works will
start in July – August 2008:
• Manor Place to Haymarket
• Gayfield Square
• Lindsay Road to Newhaven
Tram Information
Boards
Small Business
Support Scheme
(Updated figures at the start of May 2008)
During the construction for Edinburgh’s 21st century tram network, we would like to thank you all
for your support and patience in helping to build a new and modern transport system.
Learn more /
Share your thoughts
Speak to the uniformed tram
construction advisers who will
be at every work site
Customer Helpline:
0131 623 8726
Email:
roadworks@tramsforedinburgh.com
Website:
www.tramsforedinburgh.com
Ongoing work
18 Tram Information Boards have
been installed in the city centre at
the following locations:
2 on Constitution Street
8 on Leith Walk
4 on Princes Street
2 on St Andrew Square
2 on Shandwick Place
What are the benefits
of trams?
It will improve your quality of life
• Faster journey times
• Less congestion = less pollution & noise
• One part of a better integrated
transport system
• Comfortable and accessible
• Safer – inspector plus driver
• Looks great
• Comfortable, different experience
from the past
It’s good for Edinburgh
• Better transport is essential to the
growth of the city and attracting new
businesses
• House prices along tram routes can
increase
• 1,000 permanent new jobs and 1,000
construction jobs
• Trams will attract more visitors to the
City Centre
• Connects Waterfront, Edinburgh Park
etc with the City Centre
• Link to airport will benefit tourism
and businesses
• Trams are environmentally friendly
Constitution Street, March 08
For more information on the Small Business Support
Scheme please contact the tram helpline on 0131 623 8726
Edinburgh’s businesses will remain open and
accessible and welcome your continued patronage.
Applications delivered 430
Applications received 210
Applications accepted 197
Applications rejected 8
Applications requested further info 5
Cheques delivered 187
Amount paid £684,000
Constitution Street, March 08
Shandwick Place, March 08
will see trams running on the streets
of Edinburgh by 2011 has been
announced. The programme will
see infrastructure works start from
May 2008 until January 2011 and it is
anticipated that a full revenue service
will be in place by July 2011.
The contract also includes an extension of the hours of working
for contractors to 7am to 7pm (Monday to Saturday) in response
to the wishes of Edinburgh’s business community and to further
minimise the impact of the project.
During the ongoing construction period the project will continue
to plan diversions carefully in close collaboration with the City of
Edinburgh Council, Lothian Buses, Lothian and Borders Police and
the emergency services in order to ensure minimum disruption.
As the next phase of the project progresses, rails will start to be
laid and tram stops will be built, and the people of Edinburgh will
be able to see exactly where trams will run on our streets.
The Edinburgh Tram project brings together world renowned
organisations including Bilfinger Berger Siemens (BBS), CAF,
Carillion, SDS and Transdev and together with tie these
organisations will deliver a world class tram system for
Edinburgh, its citizens and visitors.
“Now that the construction programme
has been announced, we are at the cusp
of delivering what we have promised –
a world class public transport system
in our Capital.
We have struck the correct balance between price,
programme, quality of the finished product and certainty
of cost in agreeing this construction programme.
The utility diversion work continues to progress to
programme and to budget. Clearance of utility sites
has commenced in Leith Walk and this will continue
throughout the route in preparation for the infrastructure
work to begin this year.
The start of the infrastructure work in May 2008 will
see the nature of the construction change with rails being
installed from August 2008. I’m certain that the people of
Edinburgh will look forward to seeing the physical attributes
of the tram develop before them.
Throughout construction, tie will continue to work closely
with its business and community partners and contractors
to ensure that the city remains open for business while
tram work takes place. This is an exciting time and brings
us another step closer to a fully-integrated public transport
network befitting a capital city.”
May 2008 Fact Sheet
Tram construction programme announced
as scheme moves to next phase
Building the infrastructure
(Infraco)
The tram infrastructure work will start
in May 2008 and between mid-May and
end of June 2008 this work includes:
On-Street
• Excavation for piling at Russell
Road Bridge
• Site clearance in Russell Road / Roseburn
Street for retaining walls and demolition
of existing buildings
• Demolition of Caledonian Ale House
• Set-up for accommodation works at
Murrayfield Stadium
• Commencement of excavation for
Haymarket Viaduct
Off-Street
• Preloading of embankment at site
of Gogarburn Bridge
• Completion of removal of gas main
and water main at Depot site
• Gyle Stop retaining wall
Key Programme Dates
for Line 1a
December 2008
MUDFA programme complete
January 2009
Princes Street closure to traffic
until July 2009
Work starts on Haymarket Junction
2009
Track laying throughout route
January 2010
Work starts on Picardy Place junction
Spring 2010
Gogar Depot completed
Winter 2010
Commence testing and commissioning
of tram vehicles
July 2011
Full revenue service running
Tram vehicles
A new tram film was released
earlier this year showing the
trams at several locations along
the route. The common branding
with Lothian Buses will reflect
Edinburgh’s integrated transport
network, providing joint ticketing
and information. You can view
the film on the homepage of
www.tramsforedinburgh.com.
www.tramsforedinburgh.com telephone: 0131 623 8726
Edinburgh’s businesses will remain open and accessible and welcome your continued patronage.
Willie Gallagher,
tie Executive Chairman
Bankhead Ocean Terminal
May 2008 Fact Sheet
www.tramsforedinburgh.com telephone: 0131 623 8726
Who’s who?
Construction Consortium (Infraco) –
Bilfinger Berger Siemens
• Responsible for civil engineering including
earthworks, structures and roads plus
laying the tracks, building tram stops
and the overhead line equipment
• Also assuming responsibility for SDS
and Tramco through contract novation
• Due to be completed 2011
Tram Manufacturer (Tramco) - CAF
• Responsible for supplying 27 trams,
maintenance equipment and structural
warranty for up to 30 years
• Contract to be novated to Infraco contract
• First trams to be tested 2010
Utility Diversions (MUDFA) -
Carillion
• Now Carillion after take over of Alfred
McAlpine in 2008
• Responsible for all utility diversions
along the route including water, gas
and telecoms in preparation for the
infrastructure works
• To be completed December 2008
Detailed Design - SDS (System
Design Services)
• Contract awarded to Parsons Brinkerhoff
and Halcrow
• Responsible for detailed design of the
tram route and consultation
• To be novated to the Infraco contract
• Due to be completed 2008
Tram Operator -
Transdev Edinburgh Tram
• Responsible for technical advice through
the procurement and delivery phases, plus
operating resources to assist with testing
and commissioning
• Transdev to operate the system from
2004 for 15 years
In May and June major utility
diversion works (MUDFA)
will be commencing/ongoing
in the following areas:
• Gogar Depot
• The Gyle
• Shandwick Place
• Princes Street
• St Andrew Square
• South St David Street
• Leith Walk
• Constitution Street
• Ocean Drive & Ocean Terminal
• Edinburgh Park Station to
Forrester High School
• Haymarket Station to Roseburn
• Montgomery Street to London
Road Roundabout
In addition to the above,
the following works will
start in July – August 2008:
• Manor Place to Haymarket
• Gayfield Square
• Lindsay Road to Newhaven
Tram Information
Boards
Small Business
Support Scheme
(Updated figures at the start of May 2008)
During the construction for Edinburgh’s 21st century tram network, we would like to thank you all
for your support and patience in helping to build a new and modern transport system.
Learn more /
Share your thoughts
Speak to the uniformed tram
construction advisers who will
be at every work site
Customer Helpline:
0131 623 8726
Email:
roadworks@tramsforedinburgh.com
Website:
www.tramsforedinburgh.com
Ongoing work
18 Tram Information Boards have
been installed in the city centre at
the following locations:
2 on Constitution Street
8 on Leith Walk
4 on Princes Street
2 on St Andrew Square
2 on Shandwick Place
What are the benefits
of trams?
It will improve your quality of life
• Faster journey times
• Less congestion = less pollution & noise
• One part of a better integrated
transport system
• Comfortable and accessible
• Safer – inspector plus driver
• Looks great
• Comfortable, different experience
from the past
It’s good for Edinburgh
• Better transport is essential to the
growth of the city and attracting new
businesses
• House prices along tram routes can
increase
• 1,000 permanent new jobs and 1,000
construction jobs
• Trams will attract more visitors to the
City Centre
• Connects Waterfront, Edinburgh Park
etc with the City Centre
• Link to airport will benefit tourism
and businesses
• Trams are environmentally friendly
Constitution Street, March 08
For more information on the Small Business Support
Scheme please contact the tram helpline on 0131 623 8726
Edinburgh’s businesses will remain open and
accessible and welcome your continued patronage.
Applications delivered 430
Applications received 210
Applications accepted 197
Applications rejected 8
Applications requested further info 5
Cheques delivered 187
Amount paid £684,000
Constitution Street, March 08
Shandwick Place, March 08
Friday, 9 May 2008
Agenda Wednesday 14th April 2008
The next meeting of the Community Council will be held
On WEDNESDAY 14 MAY 2008 at 7.30pm in
St Catherine’s Argyle Church Community Hall, Grange Road
All who live or work or are active in the area are welcome.
Hearing loop available.
1. Sederunt and Apologies.
2. Minutes of Meeting held 9 April 2008.
3. Matters Arising.
4. Police Report.
5. HMO Discussion (attended by Margo MacDonald MSP).
6. Consultation of Draft for Community Council
Scheme and Code of Conduct. .
7. Shopping Bags - Marchmont & Sciennes Business Association.
8. Report from Neighbourhood Partnership
9. Report of South Edinburgh Public Partnership
Forum (Health).
10. A.O.C.B.
11. Next meeting and A.G.M. Wednesday 11 June 2008.
.
On WEDNESDAY 14 MAY 2008 at 7.30pm in
St Catherine’s Argyle Church Community Hall, Grange Road
All who live or work or are active in the area are welcome.
Hearing loop available.
1. Sederunt and Apologies.
2. Minutes of Meeting held 9 April 2008.
3. Matters Arising.
4. Police Report.
5. HMO Discussion (attended by Margo MacDonald MSP).
6. Consultation of Draft for Community Council
Scheme and Code of Conduct. .
7. Shopping Bags - Marchmont & Sciennes Business Association.
8. Report from Neighbourhood Partnership
9. Report of South Edinburgh Public Partnership
Forum (Health).
10. A.O.C.B.
11. Next meeting and A.G.M. Wednesday 11 June 2008.
.
Thursday, 24 April 2008
Trams Update
Phase 2 of the City Centre Traffic Management programme associated with Trams for Edinburgh and the utility diversion work on Shandwick Place will be introduced this weekend. A series of enabling works has been taking place over the last few days and will continue until this weekend to enable phase 2 traffic management to be implemented.
If you have any questions concerning this work or you would like some leaflets then please do not hesitate to contact Alf Orriell, Community Engagement Coordinator
or Mike Connelly, Stakeholder Relationship Manager at tie.
tie Limited
Citypoint
65 Haymarket Terrace
Edinburgh EH12 5HD
Tel: +44 (0)131 622 8336
Fax: +44 (0)131 622 8301
Mob: 07973 696965
Email: Alf.Orriell@tie.ltd.uk
If you have any questions concerning this work or you would like some leaflets then please do not hesitate to contact Alf Orriell, Community Engagement Coordinator
or Mike Connelly, Stakeholder Relationship Manager at tie.
tie Limited
Citypoint
65 Haymarket Terrace
Edinburgh EH12 5HD
Tel: +44 (0)131 622 8336
Fax: +44 (0)131 622 8301
Mob: 07973 696965
Email: Alf.Orriell@tie.ltd.uk
CLAN Edinburgh Challenge Fund
Here is information on the CLAN Edinburgh Challenge Fund which Capital City Partnership have been asked to circulate and which may be of interest.
The Challenge Fund supports bids to run innovative literacy projects. Any organisation can apply for a grant
Amounts vary: a small project might be awarded up to £5,000, but there is scope to £10,000 and some room for phased bids. There are take-up dates several times a year, and we can sometimes help identify potential partners
The date for the next round of the CLAN Edinburgh Challenge Fund submissions has been set as Friday 6th June 2008.
There will be a Briefing Session for potential applicants in the CLAN Edinburgh Office building (map attached) at 2.00pm (Registration/coffee – 1.45pm) on Wednesday 7th May 2008, which is obligatory for applicants who have not attended a previous briefing session. It is also recommended for other applicants who may not have attended a briefing since the pack was considerably revised in January 2007. If you wish to attend the Briefing Session, please contact Clark Dawson on Tel: 0131 270 6072 e-mail: clark@clanedinburgh.org to register in advance.
More information about CLAN Edinburgh can be found on our website www.clanedinburgh.org. The NEW Challenge Fund application form and information pack is also available to download on the CLAN Edinburgh website.
Should you wish to discuss a potential bid or wish for more information about the Challenge Fund, please contact either Richard Terry on Tel: 0131 270 6071 e-mail: richard@clanedinburgh.org or Angus Whyte on Tel: 0131 270 6076 e-mail angus@clanedinburgh.org .
The Challenge Fund supports bids to run innovative literacy projects. Any organisation can apply for a grant
Amounts vary: a small project might be awarded up to £5,000, but there is scope to £10,000 and some room for phased bids. There are take-up dates several times a year, and we can sometimes help identify potential partners
The date for the next round of the CLAN Edinburgh Challenge Fund submissions has been set as Friday 6th June 2008.
There will be a Briefing Session for potential applicants in the CLAN Edinburgh Office building (map attached) at 2.00pm (Registration/coffee – 1.45pm) on Wednesday 7th May 2008, which is obligatory for applicants who have not attended a previous briefing session. It is also recommended for other applicants who may not have attended a briefing since the pack was considerably revised in January 2007. If you wish to attend the Briefing Session, please contact Clark Dawson on Tel: 0131 270 6072 e-mail: clark@clanedinburgh.org to register in advance.
More information about CLAN Edinburgh can be found on our website www.clanedinburgh.org. The NEW Challenge Fund application form and information pack is also available to download on the CLAN Edinburgh website.
Should you wish to discuss a potential bid or wish for more information about the Challenge Fund, please contact either Richard Terry on Tel: 0131 270 6071 e-mail: richard@clanedinburgh.org or Angus Whyte on Tel: 0131 270 6076 e-mail angus@clanedinburgh.org .
Eco Schools in Edinburgh
Eco Schools is an international initiative designed to encourage whole-school action for the environment. It was developed in 1994 by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), who are based in Portugal, and introduced into Scotland, in 1995. Schools in 41 countries are now involved in the programme and it is estimated that 4 million children and young adults are taking part. The programme is managed in Scotland by Keep Scotland Beautiful (KSB).
Eco Schools is a recognised award scheme that accredits schools that make a commitment to continuously improve their environmental performance. The programme was adopted in late 2001 by the Scottish Executive Education Department as a performance measure, national priority four: values and citizenship. It is also a learning resource that raises awareness of environmental and sustainable development issues throughout activities linked to curriculum subjects and areas.
The aim of the Eco Schools programme is to make environmental awareness and action an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of the school for both pupils and for staff and to engage the wider community. The Eco Schools programme can help schools to –
Improve the school environment
Reduce litter and waste
Reduce energy and water use
Devise efficient ways of travelling to and from school
Promote healthy lifestyles
Encourage active citizenship
Build strong partnerships with a variety of community groups
Develop international and global links
The eight core topics within Eco Schools Scotland are Biodiversity, Energy, Health & Well-being, Litter, School Grounds, Transport, Waste Minimisation and Water. The programme is designed around seven core structural areas – Eco-committee, Environmental Review, Action Plan, Monitoring and Evaluating, Linking to the Curriculum, Involving the Whole School and the Wider Community and the Eco-code. Internationally, the topics used differ but the award criteria set is exactly the same.
There are three award levels in the programme - bronze, silver and Green Flag. Schools do not have to progress through the award structure i.e. a Green Flag can be gained without achieving a bronze or a silver award. Eco Schools is a process of continuous improvement so to maintain Green Flag status, schools must renew the award every two years. There are no other time constraints in the programme i.e. between a bronze and a silver award.
The Eco Schools programme does not insist on environmental perfection from the outset. It is designed so that schools can slowly build up an environmental ethos by expanding and developing environmental work as time spend on the programme progresses. For this reason, to progress through bronze or silver or on to a first Green Flag award, schools need only look at a minimum of two of the above topics. After two years, when applying for a second Green Flag, schools must show that they have sustained their work in the first two topics and have developed another two and on until all eight topics have been covered in-depth, as a school progresses to its 4th flag. There is nothing to stop a school looking at all eight topics in depth in one go though!
It is important to note that any retrospective environmental work that a school has carried out will count towards Eco Schools award progression. Also, any work carried out or planned for Active Schools, Enterprise, Healthyschools+, Safe Routes to Schools or Grounds for Awareness for example does count too.
On registration, schools receive copies of both the Scottish Eco Schools handbook and video. There are other resources that are available via e-mail. All resources are free of charge and there is no obligation to develop Eco Schools activities although there are numerous support mechanisms in place to help. A grant of £250 is available to all schools in Scotland when a first award with the programme is gained (should it be bronze, silver or Green Flag).
In April 2006, a three year sponsorship deal worth nearly £40,000, was signed between the Royal Bank of Scotland Group and the Council. This means that when a school gains a second award through the programme in Edinburgh, they can apply for a grant for £250. Forms are automatically sent from the Council to schools when confirmation of their second award is given from Keep Scotland Beautiful. This is a one-off grant and is only open to schools in the City of Edinburgh.
Over 3000 schools are registered and involved in the scheme in Scotland. To date, 538 schools have achieved Green Flag status. In Edinburgh, 208 private and local authority schools (95% of all local authority schools) are registered and fourteen schools – Bright Horizons Family Solutions (Gogarburn), Bonnington Primary, Calderglen Nursery, Carrick Knowe Primary, Dalmeny Primary, Dean Park Primary, East Craigs Primary, Ferryhill Primary, George Heriot’s, Greengables Nursery, Hermitage Park Primary, Pirniehall Primary, Prospect Bank School and St. Crispin’s School are currently at first Green Flag level.
Children’s House Nursery, Cowgate Under 5’s , Currie High, Echline Primary, Kaimes School, Kirkliston Nursery, The Royal High Primary, St. Leonard’s Nursery and Towerbank Primary have progressed onto second Green Flag level and Portobello High recently gained their third. 119 have gained bronze and 69 have gained a silver award.
The Education Section within Services for Communities can provide advice and guidance with the progression of Eco Schools work in Edinburgh. Through their local and national contacts, they can put schools in touch with organisations in the city and beyond that can help with any of the eight core topics.
Jamie Pearson, Education Officer, is the main contact in The City of Edinburgh Council for Eco Schools. He joined the council after two years of working as the Information Officer for Eco Schools Scotland. He is a lead assessor for the programme in Scotland so can give detailed advice on implementing the programme in your school and the progression of awards.
As well as providing talks and advice, the Education Team also produce a quarterly newsletter and are planning to develop an Eco Schools Edinburgh web-site in the summer break.
For more information on the programme in Edinburgh, contact Jamie on (0131) 469 5472 or e-mail jamie.pearson@edinburgh.gov.uk
To register with Eco Schools in Scotland, contact Catriona Rae on 01786 468234, e-mail catriona.rae@ksbscotland.org.uk or write to –
Eco Schools
c/o Keep Scotland Beautiful
Islay House
Livilands Lane
Stirling
FK8 2BG
Edinburgh (local information) - www.edinburgh.gov.uk/ecoschools
Scotland (downloads and general information) - www.ecoschoolsscotland.org
International (information on all 41 countries in the network) - www.eco-schools.org
Eco Schools is a recognised award scheme that accredits schools that make a commitment to continuously improve their environmental performance. The programme was adopted in late 2001 by the Scottish Executive Education Department as a performance measure, national priority four: values and citizenship. It is also a learning resource that raises awareness of environmental and sustainable development issues throughout activities linked to curriculum subjects and areas.
The aim of the Eco Schools programme is to make environmental awareness and action an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of the school for both pupils and for staff and to engage the wider community. The Eco Schools programme can help schools to –
Improve the school environment
Reduce litter and waste
Reduce energy and water use
Devise efficient ways of travelling to and from school
Promote healthy lifestyles
Encourage active citizenship
Build strong partnerships with a variety of community groups
Develop international and global links
The eight core topics within Eco Schools Scotland are Biodiversity, Energy, Health & Well-being, Litter, School Grounds, Transport, Waste Minimisation and Water. The programme is designed around seven core structural areas – Eco-committee, Environmental Review, Action Plan, Monitoring and Evaluating, Linking to the Curriculum, Involving the Whole School and the Wider Community and the Eco-code. Internationally, the topics used differ but the award criteria set is exactly the same.
There are three award levels in the programme - bronze, silver and Green Flag. Schools do not have to progress through the award structure i.e. a Green Flag can be gained without achieving a bronze or a silver award. Eco Schools is a process of continuous improvement so to maintain Green Flag status, schools must renew the award every two years. There are no other time constraints in the programme i.e. between a bronze and a silver award.
The Eco Schools programme does not insist on environmental perfection from the outset. It is designed so that schools can slowly build up an environmental ethos by expanding and developing environmental work as time spend on the programme progresses. For this reason, to progress through bronze or silver or on to a first Green Flag award, schools need only look at a minimum of two of the above topics. After two years, when applying for a second Green Flag, schools must show that they have sustained their work in the first two topics and have developed another two and on until all eight topics have been covered in-depth, as a school progresses to its 4th flag. There is nothing to stop a school looking at all eight topics in depth in one go though!
It is important to note that any retrospective environmental work that a school has carried out will count towards Eco Schools award progression. Also, any work carried out or planned for Active Schools, Enterprise, Healthyschools+, Safe Routes to Schools or Grounds for Awareness for example does count too.
On registration, schools receive copies of both the Scottish Eco Schools handbook and video. There are other resources that are available via e-mail. All resources are free of charge and there is no obligation to develop Eco Schools activities although there are numerous support mechanisms in place to help. A grant of £250 is available to all schools in Scotland when a first award with the programme is gained (should it be bronze, silver or Green Flag).
In April 2006, a three year sponsorship deal worth nearly £40,000, was signed between the Royal Bank of Scotland Group and the Council. This means that when a school gains a second award through the programme in Edinburgh, they can apply for a grant for £250. Forms are automatically sent from the Council to schools when confirmation of their second award is given from Keep Scotland Beautiful. This is a one-off grant and is only open to schools in the City of Edinburgh.
Over 3000 schools are registered and involved in the scheme in Scotland. To date, 538 schools have achieved Green Flag status. In Edinburgh, 208 private and local authority schools (95% of all local authority schools) are registered and fourteen schools – Bright Horizons Family Solutions (Gogarburn), Bonnington Primary, Calderglen Nursery, Carrick Knowe Primary, Dalmeny Primary, Dean Park Primary, East Craigs Primary, Ferryhill Primary, George Heriot’s, Greengables Nursery, Hermitage Park Primary, Pirniehall Primary, Prospect Bank School and St. Crispin’s School are currently at first Green Flag level.
Children’s House Nursery, Cowgate Under 5’s , Currie High, Echline Primary, Kaimes School, Kirkliston Nursery, The Royal High Primary, St. Leonard’s Nursery and Towerbank Primary have progressed onto second Green Flag level and Portobello High recently gained their third. 119 have gained bronze and 69 have gained a silver award.
The Education Section within Services for Communities can provide advice and guidance with the progression of Eco Schools work in Edinburgh. Through their local and national contacts, they can put schools in touch with organisations in the city and beyond that can help with any of the eight core topics.
Jamie Pearson, Education Officer, is the main contact in The City of Edinburgh Council for Eco Schools. He joined the council after two years of working as the Information Officer for Eco Schools Scotland. He is a lead assessor for the programme in Scotland so can give detailed advice on implementing the programme in your school and the progression of awards.
As well as providing talks and advice, the Education Team also produce a quarterly newsletter and are planning to develop an Eco Schools Edinburgh web-site in the summer break.
For more information on the programme in Edinburgh, contact Jamie on (0131) 469 5472 or e-mail jamie.pearson@edinburgh.gov.uk
To register with Eco Schools in Scotland, contact Catriona Rae on 01786 468234, e-mail catriona.rae@ksbscotland.org.uk or write to –
Eco Schools
c/o Keep Scotland Beautiful
Islay House
Livilands Lane
Stirling
FK8 2BG
Edinburgh (local information) - www.edinburgh.gov.uk/ecoschools
Scotland (downloads and general information) - www.ecoschoolsscotland.org
International (information on all 41 countries in the network) - www.eco-schools.org
Tuesday, 15 April 2008
Unapproved MSCC minutes 9 April 2008
(There will be an opportunity to approve these minutes at the May meeting of the group)
1 Sederunt and Apologies
Susie Agnew noted apologies and welcomed attendees to the meeting.
2 Minutes of meeting held 12th March 2008
The minutes were accepted as a true record. (Proposed: Cherry Ledlie; Seconded: Dorothy Ryle.)
3 Matters Arising
There were no matters arising that wouldn’t be covered later on in the meeting.
4 Police Report
PC Mike Brooks stood in for PC Lindsey Thomson to provide an updated police report:
In the last month, 72 crimes have been reported in this ward, and 21 of these have been solved to date.
- There have been six vandalisms.
- There have been several housebreakings, six of which have been solved. Housebreakings included incidents on Marchmont Street, Marchmont Crescent, Warrender Park Terrace, Glen Street and Roseneath Street. Scotmid has been broken into twice. The hairdresser’s on Warrender Park Road has also been broken into, and this seems to be part of a trend of break-ins to hairdressers across the city.
- There has been an upsurge in the theft of pedal cycles and the police are continuing to look at ways of addressing this.
- There have been regular weekend protests at Quarter Mile by anti-globalisation protesters, mainly aimed at Sainsburys and Starbucks, and this has included some petty vandalism.
General group discussion followed, and concerns were raised about incidents which took place overnight from the 31st March – 1st April, when a number of cars in the area had their tyres let down. PC Brooks explained that this was a seemingly one-off action by a group of climate change activists, calling themselves April Fools/April Fuels, and was said to be aimed mainly at 4x4 vehicles. The group expressed concern about the dangerous nature of these incidents if drivers hadn’t noticed that their tyres had been let down, and acknowledged that this is a separate group of people from those who routinely undertake auto-crime in the area.
It was also mentioned that residents should notify the Bike Station at Kittles Yard on Causewayside of any abandoned bicycles.
5 Report on seminar to discuss Scottish Planning Policy SPP3: Planning for Housing
Susanna Lacey reported back on her attendance at this seminar, concentrating mainly on the issue of licences for Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs). The seminar included three presentations: one on the Scottish Government Planning Policy Review, one on Common Community Perspectives and one on Local Authority Perspectives. Attendants then split into discussion groups. Susanna highlighted some of the views that were expressed during the presentation and discussion groups, including the following:
- HMOs are not just for students, with an increasing number of occupants being transient workers and young professionals.
- Enforcing HMOs is difficult for the Council, and investigations are generally only made after a complaint. It can take 18 months for a decision, and result in a fine of £250. Higher fines for landlords were suggested.
- Planning is a devolved issue in Scotland.
- Councils don’t currently have strong powers to “close down” HMOs, or many resources to “police” HMOs.
- Many people at the seminar were against HMO quotas, including student representatives and the homeless charity Shelter.
- Many people at the seminar were supportive of HMO quotas.
- Should moves to tackle the “problem” be through planning or licensing?
- Applying quotas to HMOs may lead to illegal HMOs.
- There is a need for mixed, sustainable communities.
- HMO quotas could be perceived as social engineering.
The issue of HMO quotas triggered much discussion and speculation amongst MSCC members, and various issues were raised, including the following:
- The MSCC has spent considerable time in previous years looking at the issue of HMOs.
- There is an “HMO team” at the Council who will investigate suspected HMOs.
- 12% of the Edinburgh population is students.
- There is a recent trend towards the opening of new managed accommodation for students.
- There was some discussion of “difficult behaviour” by residents, whether this can be attributed mainly to students or HMO occupants, and the use of the HMO list as a tool to deal with difficult behaviour. It was suggested that strict tenancy agreements from landlords could help with anti-social behaviour by tenants, and it was questioned whether HMO licenses were relevant to anti-social behaviour since HMO licenses are mainly about ensuring the safety of tenants through the introduction of smoke alarms etc.
- The legality of applying quotas to HMOs has been questioned, and although Glasgow Council has introduced some quotas, it has been said that this was against the advice of their legal department. Certainly, Edinburgh Council maintains that it cannot legally introduce HMO quotas.
- HMO quotas are a planning issue, licensing is a separate issue.
- HMO licenses last for a year (possibly now extended to 3 years) and are difficult to remove. However, the Council can refuse to renew licences.
After lengthy discussion around many of these issues, it appeared that many within the MSCC were in favour of HMO quotas, and the group agreed that it would like to investigate this issue further.
ACTION
Susie Agnew will invite appropriate individuals from Edinburgh Council licensing department and planning department to the June meeting, which will include this issue as a main item on the agenda. A student representative will also be invited.
6 Planning Act 2006
A consultation is currently underway on the implementation of this act, and ends in May. There was brief discussion of this consultation, and though few people present had read the consultation document, preliminary indications were that the new arrangements are likely to have positive rather than negative implications for the MSCC. It is likely that the MSCC will have to be more organised in its planning objections in the future, but that the community will have an earlier opportunity to hear about and feed back on new plans.
ACTION
Anne Laird will review the consultation document and prepare a response if appropriate.
7 Meadows Festival
The Meadows Festival will take place on 7th/8th June. There will be various stalls, bands and activities, including football. Although it was not possible this year to plan the festival to coincide with Keith Taylor’s amusements on the Meadows, he has agreed to provide a bouncy castle and a few rides for children, and it is hoped that the two events will be able to coincide next year.
£30,000 is required to put on the festival. An Arts Council grant of £10,000 has been applied for, £500 sponsorship has been provided for the football, and there are plans to apply for a Neighbourhood Partnership grant for further funds. Prices for hiring stalls are available at the Meadows Festival blogspot: www.meadowsfestival.blogspot.com
ACTION
- Cameron Rose will e-mail Susanna Lacey the relevant form for applying for a Neighbourhood Partnership grant.
- Mike Shields will arrange with Susanna Lacey to meet with the planning committee.
- Susie Agnew and Sarah Marchbanks will look at the MSCC accounts with a view to the MSCC making a small donation towards the funding of the festival.
- Anyone who is interested in volunteering to help out with the festival should contact Susanna Lacey: slacey1@aol.com or access via the blog at www.meadowsfestival.blogspot.com.
8 Urban Circus (Ladyboys of Bangkok)
Susie Agnew informed the group that Peng Lee Yap has written to the Council expressing the view that a limit of 10pm for music should be imposed through the public entertainment license. Cllr Cameron Rose reported that a short-life working group has been set up to look at issues such as this concerning the Meadows, but won’t have guidelines drawn up by August.
Peng Lee Yap has also objected to the granting of a liquor licence to the Urban Circus. Such a license has not yet been applied for, but has been granted in previous years. Peng Lee Yap’s letter also suggested that if a liquor license is granted it should have a limit of 10pm and be on condition that the area is tidied up afterwards.
Mike Shields reported that he will be meeting with representatives from the Urban Circus to discuss exactly what the Urban Circus require in terms of vehicles, caravans etc for their camp during August, bearing in mind various concerns that have been raised by local residents in the past.
ACTION Mike Shields will convey the feelings of the community council at his meeting next week.
9 Any other business
9.1 Streetscape
Developments to the Marchmont streetscape (discussed in length at previous meetings) are now underway, and Susie Agnew reported that they are not quite as she had expected, with pavements being widened by 75cm rather than 150 cm due to some issues uncovered during the development work.
Some extra money has been found for the project, and will be used to lay a new surface on the footpath down Argyle Place to match Roseneath Street. A request for additional cycle racks was made by traders, and these are being placed on Argyle Park Terrace. Susie Agnew also reported that the pavement on the south side of the street between the hardware shop and near the Earl of Marchmont has very bad tarmac and she will write to request an improvement.
9.2 Cycle Racks
There are new cycle racks available for public use outside Marchmont St Giles Church.
9.2 Benches in Grange Cemetery
George Bell, Susie Agnew and Dorothy Ryle met to discuss the more helpful positioning of benches in the Grange Cemetery. They agreed that one of the existing benches would be moved to a better place, and that the Council will probably be able to find another bench to put in the cemetery. Susie Agnew expressed appreciation for the helpfulness and co-operation of the Council in this matter.
9.3 Grant from Neighbourhood Partnership
The £2000 grant from the Neighbourhood Partnership has now arrived and needs to be used within the next 4 months.
ACTION
Susie Agnew will ask Melanie Main if she will action the spending of this grant.
Susie Agnew will make inquiries into the location of the MSCC’s hanging baskets, which were apparently used once a few years ago and have not been seen since.
Fiona Scott will look into the location of the MSCC’s gazebos, which also seem to have disappeared. If they are located, they will be lent to the Meadows Festival.
9.4 Other items of interest
Susanna Lacey notified the group of various other items of interest, including:
- Community Council training sessions
- World Heritage Day, taking place on 18th April in the Scottish Storytelling Centre
- Care & Repair for older and disabled people
- Energy Efficiency in historic homes conference on the 2nd May
- Community Council Joint Meeting on 24th April at 7pm in the Council Headquarters, looking particularly at partnership working and the role of community councils.
Information about all of these items will be available on the community council blog: www.marchmontandsciennes.blogspot.com.
ACTION Anyone wishing to attend the Community Council joint meeting should let Susanna know: slacey1@aol.com.
9.5 MAGPIE
John Simon reported that an emergency meeting of MAGPIE will take place on 17th April at 7.30pm at the Croquet Club to discuss the future of MAGPIE. Various individuals expressed an interest in attending, and John Simon and Susanna Lacey intend to attend.
10 Date of next meeting
The next meeting will take place on Wednesday 14 May 2008, beginning at 7.30pm at St Catherine’s Argyle Community Hall, Grange Road, Edinburgh.
1 Sederunt and Apologies
Susie Agnew noted apologies and welcomed attendees to the meeting.
2 Minutes of meeting held 12th March 2008
The minutes were accepted as a true record. (Proposed: Cherry Ledlie; Seconded: Dorothy Ryle.)
3 Matters Arising
There were no matters arising that wouldn’t be covered later on in the meeting.
4 Police Report
PC Mike Brooks stood in for PC Lindsey Thomson to provide an updated police report:
In the last month, 72 crimes have been reported in this ward, and 21 of these have been solved to date.
- There have been six vandalisms.
- There have been several housebreakings, six of which have been solved. Housebreakings included incidents on Marchmont Street, Marchmont Crescent, Warrender Park Terrace, Glen Street and Roseneath Street. Scotmid has been broken into twice. The hairdresser’s on Warrender Park Road has also been broken into, and this seems to be part of a trend of break-ins to hairdressers across the city.
- There has been an upsurge in the theft of pedal cycles and the police are continuing to look at ways of addressing this.
- There have been regular weekend protests at Quarter Mile by anti-globalisation protesters, mainly aimed at Sainsburys and Starbucks, and this has included some petty vandalism.
General group discussion followed, and concerns were raised about incidents which took place overnight from the 31st March – 1st April, when a number of cars in the area had their tyres let down. PC Brooks explained that this was a seemingly one-off action by a group of climate change activists, calling themselves April Fools/April Fuels, and was said to be aimed mainly at 4x4 vehicles. The group expressed concern about the dangerous nature of these incidents if drivers hadn’t noticed that their tyres had been let down, and acknowledged that this is a separate group of people from those who routinely undertake auto-crime in the area.
It was also mentioned that residents should notify the Bike Station at Kittles Yard on Causewayside of any abandoned bicycles.
5 Report on seminar to discuss Scottish Planning Policy SPP3: Planning for Housing
Susanna Lacey reported back on her attendance at this seminar, concentrating mainly on the issue of licences for Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs). The seminar included three presentations: one on the Scottish Government Planning Policy Review, one on Common Community Perspectives and one on Local Authority Perspectives. Attendants then split into discussion groups. Susanna highlighted some of the views that were expressed during the presentation and discussion groups, including the following:
- HMOs are not just for students, with an increasing number of occupants being transient workers and young professionals.
- Enforcing HMOs is difficult for the Council, and investigations are generally only made after a complaint. It can take 18 months for a decision, and result in a fine of £250. Higher fines for landlords were suggested.
- Planning is a devolved issue in Scotland.
- Councils don’t currently have strong powers to “close down” HMOs, or many resources to “police” HMOs.
- Many people at the seminar were against HMO quotas, including student representatives and the homeless charity Shelter.
- Many people at the seminar were supportive of HMO quotas.
- Should moves to tackle the “problem” be through planning or licensing?
- Applying quotas to HMOs may lead to illegal HMOs.
- There is a need for mixed, sustainable communities.
- HMO quotas could be perceived as social engineering.
The issue of HMO quotas triggered much discussion and speculation amongst MSCC members, and various issues were raised, including the following:
- The MSCC has spent considerable time in previous years looking at the issue of HMOs.
- There is an “HMO team” at the Council who will investigate suspected HMOs.
- 12% of the Edinburgh population is students.
- There is a recent trend towards the opening of new managed accommodation for students.
- There was some discussion of “difficult behaviour” by residents, whether this can be attributed mainly to students or HMO occupants, and the use of the HMO list as a tool to deal with difficult behaviour. It was suggested that strict tenancy agreements from landlords could help with anti-social behaviour by tenants, and it was questioned whether HMO licenses were relevant to anti-social behaviour since HMO licenses are mainly about ensuring the safety of tenants through the introduction of smoke alarms etc.
- The legality of applying quotas to HMOs has been questioned, and although Glasgow Council has introduced some quotas, it has been said that this was against the advice of their legal department. Certainly, Edinburgh Council maintains that it cannot legally introduce HMO quotas.
- HMO quotas are a planning issue, licensing is a separate issue.
- HMO licenses last for a year (possibly now extended to 3 years) and are difficult to remove. However, the Council can refuse to renew licences.
After lengthy discussion around many of these issues, it appeared that many within the MSCC were in favour of HMO quotas, and the group agreed that it would like to investigate this issue further.
ACTION
Susie Agnew will invite appropriate individuals from Edinburgh Council licensing department and planning department to the June meeting, which will include this issue as a main item on the agenda. A student representative will also be invited.
6 Planning Act 2006
A consultation is currently underway on the implementation of this act, and ends in May. There was brief discussion of this consultation, and though few people present had read the consultation document, preliminary indications were that the new arrangements are likely to have positive rather than negative implications for the MSCC. It is likely that the MSCC will have to be more organised in its planning objections in the future, but that the community will have an earlier opportunity to hear about and feed back on new plans.
ACTION
Anne Laird will review the consultation document and prepare a response if appropriate.
7 Meadows Festival
The Meadows Festival will take place on 7th/8th June. There will be various stalls, bands and activities, including football. Although it was not possible this year to plan the festival to coincide with Keith Taylor’s amusements on the Meadows, he has agreed to provide a bouncy castle and a few rides for children, and it is hoped that the two events will be able to coincide next year.
£30,000 is required to put on the festival. An Arts Council grant of £10,000 has been applied for, £500 sponsorship has been provided for the football, and there are plans to apply for a Neighbourhood Partnership grant for further funds. Prices for hiring stalls are available at the Meadows Festival blogspot: www.meadowsfestival.blogspot.com
ACTION
- Cameron Rose will e-mail Susanna Lacey the relevant form for applying for a Neighbourhood Partnership grant.
- Mike Shields will arrange with Susanna Lacey to meet with the planning committee.
- Susie Agnew and Sarah Marchbanks will look at the MSCC accounts with a view to the MSCC making a small donation towards the funding of the festival.
- Anyone who is interested in volunteering to help out with the festival should contact Susanna Lacey: slacey1@aol.com or access via the blog at www.meadowsfestival.blogspot.com.
8 Urban Circus (Ladyboys of Bangkok)
Susie Agnew informed the group that Peng Lee Yap has written to the Council expressing the view that a limit of 10pm for music should be imposed through the public entertainment license. Cllr Cameron Rose reported that a short-life working group has been set up to look at issues such as this concerning the Meadows, but won’t have guidelines drawn up by August.
Peng Lee Yap has also objected to the granting of a liquor licence to the Urban Circus. Such a license has not yet been applied for, but has been granted in previous years. Peng Lee Yap’s letter also suggested that if a liquor license is granted it should have a limit of 10pm and be on condition that the area is tidied up afterwards.
Mike Shields reported that he will be meeting with representatives from the Urban Circus to discuss exactly what the Urban Circus require in terms of vehicles, caravans etc for their camp during August, bearing in mind various concerns that have been raised by local residents in the past.
ACTION Mike Shields will convey the feelings of the community council at his meeting next week.
9 Any other business
9.1 Streetscape
Developments to the Marchmont streetscape (discussed in length at previous meetings) are now underway, and Susie Agnew reported that they are not quite as she had expected, with pavements being widened by 75cm rather than 150 cm due to some issues uncovered during the development work.
Some extra money has been found for the project, and will be used to lay a new surface on the footpath down Argyle Place to match Roseneath Street. A request for additional cycle racks was made by traders, and these are being placed on Argyle Park Terrace. Susie Agnew also reported that the pavement on the south side of the street between the hardware shop and near the Earl of Marchmont has very bad tarmac and she will write to request an improvement.
9.2 Cycle Racks
There are new cycle racks available for public use outside Marchmont St Giles Church.
9.2 Benches in Grange Cemetery
George Bell, Susie Agnew and Dorothy Ryle met to discuss the more helpful positioning of benches in the Grange Cemetery. They agreed that one of the existing benches would be moved to a better place, and that the Council will probably be able to find another bench to put in the cemetery. Susie Agnew expressed appreciation for the helpfulness and co-operation of the Council in this matter.
9.3 Grant from Neighbourhood Partnership
The £2000 grant from the Neighbourhood Partnership has now arrived and needs to be used within the next 4 months.
ACTION
Susie Agnew will ask Melanie Main if she will action the spending of this grant.
Susie Agnew will make inquiries into the location of the MSCC’s hanging baskets, which were apparently used once a few years ago and have not been seen since.
Fiona Scott will look into the location of the MSCC’s gazebos, which also seem to have disappeared. If they are located, they will be lent to the Meadows Festival.
9.4 Other items of interest
Susanna Lacey notified the group of various other items of interest, including:
- Community Council training sessions
- World Heritage Day, taking place on 18th April in the Scottish Storytelling Centre
- Care & Repair for older and disabled people
- Energy Efficiency in historic homes conference on the 2nd May
- Community Council Joint Meeting on 24th April at 7pm in the Council Headquarters, looking particularly at partnership working and the role of community councils.
Information about all of these items will be available on the community council blog: www.marchmontandsciennes.blogspot.com.
ACTION Anyone wishing to attend the Community Council joint meeting should let Susanna know: slacey1@aol.com.
9.5 MAGPIE
John Simon reported that an emergency meeting of MAGPIE will take place on 17th April at 7.30pm at the Croquet Club to discuss the future of MAGPIE. Various individuals expressed an interest in attending, and John Simon and Susanna Lacey intend to attend.
10 Date of next meeting
The next meeting will take place on Wednesday 14 May 2008, beginning at 7.30pm at St Catherine’s Argyle Community Hall, Grange Road, Edinburgh.
Sunday, 13 April 2008
Meadows Festival Association
The Meadows Festival Association is looking for volunteers to help with various activities at the forthcoming festival on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th June 2008. Please access their site below to see if you would like to volunteer. Your help will be greatly appreciated.
Meadows Festival Association
Meadows Festival Association
Parking Pemits for Business Premises
THE CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL (TRAFFIC REGULATION; RESTRICTIONS ON WAITING, LOADING AND UNLOADING, AND PARKING PLACES) (VARIATION NO ) ORDER 200_ - TRO/08/06A
THE CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL IN EXERCISE OF THEIR POWERS UNDER SECTIONS 1(1), 2(1) TO 2(3), 4(2), 35, 45, 46, 49 AND 53 OF, AND PART IV OF SCHEDULE 9 TO, THE ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984, AS AMENDED, PROPOSE TO MAKE AN ORDER.
THE EFFECTS OF THIS ORDER WILL BE TO:
(a) Rename ‘Retail Permits’ as ‘Business Permits’ and allow an extended range of businesses to apply for these;
(b) Limit the number of permits to two for each qualifying business;
(c) Allow the requirement that business vehicles must be liveried to be relaxed;
(d) Require businesses to demonstrate that their vehicles are essential to their daily operations;
(e) Clarify that tradespeople operating from home are entitled to apply for a trades permit.
(f) Allow tradespeople to buy permits for any number of complete months.
A COPY OF THE DRAFT ORDER TOGETHER WITH (1) A MAP SHOWING THE AREA AFFECTED, (2) A STATEMENT OF THE COUNCIL’S REASONS FOR PROPOSING TO MAKE THE ORDER AND (3) A COPY OF THE ORDER TO BE VARIED MAY BE EXAMINED BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 9:00 AM AND 3:30 PM ON MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS DURING THE PERIOD 11 APRIL TO 7 MAY 2008 AT THE CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL, MAIN RECEPTION, CITY CHAMBERS, HIGH STREET, EDINBURGH.
ANY PERSON WISHING TO OBJECT TO THE PROPOSED ORDER SHOULD SEND DETAILS OF THE GROUNDS OF OBJECTION IN WRITING, QUOTING REFERENCE TRO/08/06A TO THE DIRECTOR OF CITY DEVELOPMENT, (TRANSPORT), WAVERLEY COURT, 4 EAST MARKET STREET, EDINBURGH, EH8 8BG, NOT LATER THAN 7 MAY 2008.
ROADS AFFECTED:
THIS ORDER AFFECTS ALL ROADS FORMING CONTROLLED PARKING ZONES 1 TO 8 INCLUSIVE.
FURTHER ORDERS, TO BE ADVERTISED LATER IN APRIL, WILL EXTEND THESE CHANGES TO ALL OTHER ROADS WITHIN THE CONTROLLED PARKING AREA.
DAVE ANDERSON, DIRECTOR OF CITY DEVELOPMENT
THE CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL IN EXERCISE OF THEIR POWERS UNDER SECTIONS 1(1), 2(1) TO 2(3), 4(2), 35, 45, 46, 49 AND 53 OF, AND PART IV OF SCHEDULE 9 TO, THE ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984, AS AMENDED, PROPOSE TO MAKE AN ORDER.
THE EFFECTS OF THIS ORDER WILL BE TO:
(a) Rename ‘Retail Permits’ as ‘Business Permits’ and allow an extended range of businesses to apply for these;
(b) Limit the number of permits to two for each qualifying business;
(c) Allow the requirement that business vehicles must be liveried to be relaxed;
(d) Require businesses to demonstrate that their vehicles are essential to their daily operations;
(e) Clarify that tradespeople operating from home are entitled to apply for a trades permit.
(f) Allow tradespeople to buy permits for any number of complete months.
A COPY OF THE DRAFT ORDER TOGETHER WITH (1) A MAP SHOWING THE AREA AFFECTED, (2) A STATEMENT OF THE COUNCIL’S REASONS FOR PROPOSING TO MAKE THE ORDER AND (3) A COPY OF THE ORDER TO BE VARIED MAY BE EXAMINED BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 9:00 AM AND 3:30 PM ON MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS DURING THE PERIOD 11 APRIL TO 7 MAY 2008 AT THE CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL, MAIN RECEPTION, CITY CHAMBERS, HIGH STREET, EDINBURGH.
ANY PERSON WISHING TO OBJECT TO THE PROPOSED ORDER SHOULD SEND DETAILS OF THE GROUNDS OF OBJECTION IN WRITING, QUOTING REFERENCE TRO/08/06A TO THE DIRECTOR OF CITY DEVELOPMENT, (TRANSPORT), WAVERLEY COURT, 4 EAST MARKET STREET, EDINBURGH, EH8 8BG, NOT LATER THAN 7 MAY 2008.
ROADS AFFECTED:
THIS ORDER AFFECTS ALL ROADS FORMING CONTROLLED PARKING ZONES 1 TO 8 INCLUSIVE.
FURTHER ORDERS, TO BE ADVERTISED LATER IN APRIL, WILL EXTEND THESE CHANGES TO ALL OTHER ROADS WITHIN THE CONTROLLED PARKING AREA.
DAVE ANDERSON, DIRECTOR OF CITY DEVELOPMENT
Friday, 11 April 2008
COMMUNITY COUNCIL JOINT MEETING
THURSDAY 24 APRIL 2008
Here is the agenda for the above meeting which will be held in the Council Headquarters, Waverley Court, 4 East Market Street, Edinburgh.
The main focus of the evening will be partnership working and the developing role of community councils. Russell Bain will present the Scottish Government’s perspective on community councils and Angela Leitch will report back on the latest developments on partnership working in Edinburgh. There will be opportunities to raise questions at the meeting and share good practice in the workshop sessions.
If you would like to attend, it would assist greatly if you could respond to the secretary at slacey1@aol.com by 18th April.
I hope you will be able to come along to the Joint Meeting.
AGENDA
6.30 Reception and Coffee
7.00 Welcome and Introduction
Councillor Jenny Dawe, Leader of the Council, Chair of Edinburgh Partnership
7.15 Community Councils - the Scottish Government Perspective -
Russell Bain, Scottish Government
Update on Partnership Working in Edinburgh
Angela Leitch, Head of Performance and Community Engagement,
Services for Communities
7.45 Questions
8.00 Workshops
8.45 Feedback
9.00 Closing Remarks
Here is the agenda for the above meeting which will be held in the Council Headquarters, Waverley Court, 4 East Market Street, Edinburgh.
The main focus of the evening will be partnership working and the developing role of community councils. Russell Bain will present the Scottish Government’s perspective on community councils and Angela Leitch will report back on the latest developments on partnership working in Edinburgh. There will be opportunities to raise questions at the meeting and share good practice in the workshop sessions.
If you would like to attend, it would assist greatly if you could respond to the secretary at slacey1@aol.com by 18th April.
I hope you will be able to come along to the Joint Meeting.
AGENDA
6.30 Reception and Coffee
7.00 Welcome and Introduction
Councillor Jenny Dawe, Leader of the Council, Chair of Edinburgh Partnership
7.15 Community Councils - the Scottish Government Perspective -
Russell Bain, Scottish Government
Update on Partnership Working in Edinburgh
Angela Leitch, Head of Performance and Community Engagement,
Services for Communities
7.45 Questions
8.00 Workshops
8.45 Feedback
9.00 Closing Remarks
Thursday, 10 April 2008
COMMUNITY COUNCIL TRAINING PROGRAMME
Details of the training and the booking form are posted on the community council site at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/communitycouncils.
Registration forms should be returned as soon as possible or at least 7 days before the training takes place.
Registration forms should be returned as soon as possible or at least 7 days before the training takes place.
COMMUNITY COUNCIL JOINT MEETING
THURSDAY 24 APRIL 2008
You are invited to the Community Council Joint Meeting on Thursday 24 April at 7.00 pm in the Council Headquarters, Waverley Court, 4 East Market Street, Edinburgh. Tea and coffee will be available from 6.30 pm.
The main focus of the evening will be partnership working and the developing role of community councils. Russell Bain who has responsibility for community planning with the Scottish Government will give a presentation on recent developments relating to community councils in Scotland.
Community councils have a key role in representing community interests on Neighbourhood Partnerships. There will be opportunities at the meeting to share good practice and consider if any changes are required to the Scheme for Community Councils to enable CCs to operate efficiently and transparently.
An agenda will be issued prior to the meeting and if you have any comments about the proposed topic, please do not hesitate to get back in touch.
It would assist greatly if you could reply to the secretary by 18th April.
You are invited to the Community Council Joint Meeting on Thursday 24 April at 7.00 pm in the Council Headquarters, Waverley Court, 4 East Market Street, Edinburgh. Tea and coffee will be available from 6.30 pm.
The main focus of the evening will be partnership working and the developing role of community councils. Russell Bain who has responsibility for community planning with the Scottish Government will give a presentation on recent developments relating to community councils in Scotland.
Community councils have a key role in representing community interests on Neighbourhood Partnerships. There will be opportunities at the meeting to share good practice and consider if any changes are required to the Scheme for Community Councils to enable CCs to operate efficiently and transparently.
An agenda will be issued prior to the meeting and if you have any comments about the proposed topic, please do not hesitate to get back in touch.
It would assist greatly if you could reply to the secretary by 18th April.
RSPB Homes for Wildlife project
Here is information about two biodiversity projects that the RSPB are running.
The first is Homes for Wildlife, which aims to
inspire people to do more for wildlife in their gardens. The RSPB are
hoping attend events in Edinburgh's parks this summer with the aim of
further promoting this project in Edinburgh. The second, Wildsquare,
encourages children to look at the wildlife in a kilometre square near
where they live (which could include your park).
Homes for Wildlife is an exciting new RSPB activity, which aims to inspire people to make a real difference for the wildlife in their gardens. We hope to encourage thousands of people across the UK to make their homes and gardens richer in wildlife by following simple wildlife gardening advice. Whether you have a small window box or a large garden, you can help a range of birds, mammals and insects.
The RSPB has produced a special 35 section Homes for Wildlife pack, full of tips and hints to make your garden a wonderful place for wildlife. You can apply for your free pack by completing a Homes for Wildlife project card or you can register online - www.rspb.org.uk/hfw. Our website allows you to receive tailored wildlife-gardening advice and details of surveys you can take part in.
In Edinburgh we have been promoting Homes for Wildlife at garden centres and at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh and would like to also reach people visiting City parks. Karen Hay from the Parks and Greenspace Service has told us that some of the Friends of Groups hold events which we might be able to attend.
Could you let us know if your group have any special events planned between April and September that you would be happy for us to attend? If you don’t have any events planned for spring or summer, our Homes for Wildlife Officer may be able to work with you to develop and organise an event. We are also looking into the possibility of developing a presentation on the project as part of our Community Talks programme so please contact us if you would like us to speak to your group members.
Finally, Edinburgh Council have very kindly set up a link from their website to ours; we would be very grateful if those of you who have websites could also set up a link (www.rspb.org.uk/hfw). Please contact Nicola Bell if you can help us promote Homes for Wildlife or would like more information about the project - nicola.bell@rspb.org.uk (0131 311 6500). Thanks very much for your support.
Wildsquare – RSPB project for children
RSPB runs Wildsquare, an exciting project for children which fits very well with the Biodiversity module of Eco Schools. It aims to get children to look at the wildlife in a one kilometre square near to where they live or go to school and carry our surveys and other activities using the RSPB Wildlife Explorer web pages. There are indoor and outdoor activity sheets to do throughout the year plus extra surveys that they will announce through the news update page. Once children take part in a survey they can tell the RSPB what they have seen in their Wildsquare.
The website currently features information from the Nuts and Berries survey and they are planning on holding mammal and butterfly surveys in the coming months. Your class can take part in all of these activities by registering on the RSPB website - www.rspb.org.uk/wildsquare. Each child will then be sent a wildlife calendar, stickers and a special ring binder where they can store all of their activity sheets.
The first is Homes for Wildlife, which aims to
inspire people to do more for wildlife in their gardens. The RSPB are
hoping attend events in Edinburgh's parks this summer with the aim of
further promoting this project in Edinburgh. The second, Wildsquare,
encourages children to look at the wildlife in a kilometre square near
where they live (which could include your park).
Homes for Wildlife is an exciting new RSPB activity, which aims to inspire people to make a real difference for the wildlife in their gardens. We hope to encourage thousands of people across the UK to make their homes and gardens richer in wildlife by following simple wildlife gardening advice. Whether you have a small window box or a large garden, you can help a range of birds, mammals and insects.
The RSPB has produced a special 35 section Homes for Wildlife pack, full of tips and hints to make your garden a wonderful place for wildlife. You can apply for your free pack by completing a Homes for Wildlife project card or you can register online - www.rspb.org.uk/hfw. Our website allows you to receive tailored wildlife-gardening advice and details of surveys you can take part in.
In Edinburgh we have been promoting Homes for Wildlife at garden centres and at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh and would like to also reach people visiting City parks. Karen Hay from the Parks and Greenspace Service has told us that some of the Friends of Groups hold events which we might be able to attend.
Could you let us know if your group have any special events planned between April and September that you would be happy for us to attend? If you don’t have any events planned for spring or summer, our Homes for Wildlife Officer may be able to work with you to develop and organise an event. We are also looking into the possibility of developing a presentation on the project as part of our Community Talks programme so please contact us if you would like us to speak to your group members.
Finally, Edinburgh Council have very kindly set up a link from their website to ours; we would be very grateful if those of you who have websites could also set up a link (www.rspb.org.uk/hfw). Please contact Nicola Bell if you can help us promote Homes for Wildlife or would like more information about the project - nicola.bell@rspb.org.uk (0131 311 6500). Thanks very much for your support.
Wildsquare – RSPB project for children
RSPB runs Wildsquare, an exciting project for children which fits very well with the Biodiversity module of Eco Schools. It aims to get children to look at the wildlife in a one kilometre square near to where they live or go to school and carry our surveys and other activities using the RSPB Wildlife Explorer web pages. There are indoor and outdoor activity sheets to do throughout the year plus extra surveys that they will announce through the news update page. Once children take part in a survey they can tell the RSPB what they have seen in their Wildsquare.
The website currently features information from the Nuts and Berries survey and they are planning on holding mammal and butterfly surveys in the coming months. Your class can take part in all of these activities by registering on the RSPB website - www.rspb.org.uk/wildsquare. Each child will then be sent a wildlife calendar, stickers and a special ring binder where they can store all of their activity sheets.
Friday, 4 April 2008
AGENDA WEDNESDAY 9 APRIL 2008
The next meeting of the Community Council will be held
On WEDNESDAY 9 APRIL 2008 at 7.30pm in
St Catherine’s Argyle Church Community Hall, Grange Road
All who live or work or are active in the area are welcome.
Hearing loop available.
1. Sederunt and Apologies.
2. Minutes of Meeting held 12 March 2008.
3. Matters Arising.
4. Police Report.
5. Report on Planning/HMO Seminar
6. Meadows Festival.
7. A.O.C.B.
8. Next Meeting 14 MAY 2008.
On WEDNESDAY 9 APRIL 2008 at 7.30pm in
St Catherine’s Argyle Church Community Hall, Grange Road
All who live or work or are active in the area are welcome.
Hearing loop available.
1. Sederunt and Apologies.
2. Minutes of Meeting held 12 March 2008.
3. Matters Arising.
4. Police Report.
5. Report on Planning/HMO Seminar
6. Meadows Festival.
7. A.O.C.B.
8. Next Meeting 14 MAY 2008.
Thursday, 3 April 2008
MSCC Discussion Group
For those of you who would like to have debate and discussions about various issues relevant to MSCC, just a reminder that a discussion group has been set up previously.
To post a comment with this discussion group please e-mail to:
mscc-discuss@googlegroups.com
To enter the site and view comments please use the following link:
www.groups.google.com/group/mscc-discuss?hl=en
To post a comment with this discussion group please e-mail to:
mscc-discuss@googlegroups.com
To enter the site and view comments please use the following link:
www.groups.google.com/group/mscc-discuss?hl=en
Wednesday, 2 April 2008
Energy Heritage
Energy Heritage: Energy Efficiency in Historic Homes Conference
Friday 2 May 2008, The Hub, Castlehill, Edinburgh
FREE
Improving the energy efficiency of historic homes can be a complicated process. This is the subject of this FREE one-day conference in the heart of Edinburgh. Spaces are limited, so reserve your place now!
This conference will cover the issues surrounding energy efficiency in historic homes, and demonstrate how they can be made more efficient while retaining their historic integrity. A case study of the Energy Heritage pilot study will be presented, covering a range of measures and householders’ experiences.
Delegates will have the opportunity to engage in the topic, network with professionals in related fields, view samples of energy efficiency improvement technologies, and will receive a copy of newly-published guidance on improving energy efficiency in listed homes.
A booking form is attached to this email. To secure a place at the conference, please complete and return a booking form by 7 April 2008.
A form can be obtained by e-mailing events@changeworks.org.uk
Email: events@changeworks.org.uk
Fax: 0131 555 2768
Post: Changeworks, Sustainable Futures, 36 Newhaven Road, Edinburgh EH6 5PY
Further information on the Energy Heritage project and the event, and links to travel and accommodation suggestions can be found at:
We look forward to meeting you on 2 May.
Regards
Sustainable Futures team
This is a Changeworks event, funded by EAGA Partnership Charitable Trust, Edinburgh World Heritage and Sust.
--
Kind regards,
Events Team
Changeworks
36 Newhaven Road
Edinburgh EH6 5PY
T: 0131 555 4010
F: 0131 555 2768
E: events@changeworks.org.uk
W: www.changeworks.org.uk
Energy Heritage: Energy Efficiency in Historic Homes
Conference, Friday 2 May 2008
10am to 4pm, The Hub, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NE
Friday 2 May 2008, The Hub, Castlehill, Edinburgh
FREE
Improving the energy efficiency of historic homes can be a complicated process. This is the subject of this FREE one-day conference in the heart of Edinburgh. Spaces are limited, so reserve your place now!
This conference will cover the issues surrounding energy efficiency in historic homes, and demonstrate how they can be made more efficient while retaining their historic integrity. A case study of the Energy Heritage pilot study will be presented, covering a range of measures and householders’ experiences.
Delegates will have the opportunity to engage in the topic, network with professionals in related fields, view samples of energy efficiency improvement technologies, and will receive a copy of newly-published guidance on improving energy efficiency in listed homes.
A booking form is attached to this email. To secure a place at the conference, please complete and return a booking form by 7 April 2008.
A form can be obtained by e-mailing events@changeworks.org.uk
Email: events@changeworks.org.uk
Fax: 0131 555 2768
Post: Changeworks, Sustainable Futures, 36 Newhaven Road, Edinburgh EH6 5PY
Further information on the Energy Heritage project and the event, and links to travel and accommodation suggestions can be found at:
We look forward to meeting you on 2 May.
Regards
Sustainable Futures team
This is a Changeworks event, funded by EAGA Partnership Charitable Trust, Edinburgh World Heritage and Sust.
--
Kind regards,
Events Team
Changeworks
36 Newhaven Road
Edinburgh EH6 5PY
T: 0131 555 4010
F: 0131 555 2768
E: events@changeworks.org.uk
W: www.changeworks.org.uk
Energy Heritage: Energy Efficiency in Historic Homes
Conference, Friday 2 May 2008
10am to 4pm, The Hub, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NE
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