The following article has appeared in The Courier and resulted in Community Council members being interviewed on the subject by the BBC. You can click on the following link to view photos of the mess created by the Dunning Glen Parties.

Dunning Glen Wild Camping Mess: Community Groups work together to find solution

Community groups in the area of the well-known beauty spot of Dunning Glen are increasing their efforts to find a solution to the disruption and the mess created by irresponsible wild campers. The area has always attracted people who enjoyed being outdoors, but the last few years have seen an increase of instances of vandalism and littering.

Sandy Morrison, chair of Fossoway Community Council explains that many locals know this beautiful area and have fond memories of days spent alongside the river Devon. ‘Nowadays,’ Sandy says, ‘it seems that large groups of predominantly younger people come out here to drink and to party. They don’t clean up their mess.’ The area is littered with cans, bottles, tent poles and other waste. Fossoway Community Council has successfully applied for a grant from Perth and Kinross Council to tidy up the area and to erect signs asking people to behave responsibly.

Litter is not the only problem. Trees and bushes are cut down for firewood. Several times fences or gates are used to burn as well, leaving livestock to escape and creating expensive damage. Local landowners and farmers have joined the initiative to curb this behaviour. ‘We have nothing against the occasional wild camper,’ a landowner explained, ‘but for whole groups to come down the Glen with generators and marquees, bringing large amounts of alcohol is just outrageous. There is also a real risk of fires getting out of control. So far the summer has not been very dry, but we worry when we have a dry period.’

Tayside Police is involved in this initiative. Sergeant Williams of Tayside Police is worried about possible criminal behaviour. Recently a car was found abandoned with the windows smashed in. A week later it was set on fire. During repairs on the old bridge damage was done to the scaffolding, and gates and fences have been vandalised. The Police have increased their patrols in this area. Sgt. Williams: ‘We are aware of the ongoing issues in Dunning Glen and have been working closely with our community partners to provide solutions. We are increasing our presence in the area and any person or groups of people found to have committed a crime or offence will be charged and reported to the Procurator Fiscal.’

Litter and vandalism is not the only worry. Kevin Borthwick of the Devon Angling Association explains: ‘This part of the river is very sensitive, and needs to be protected. The Glendey Burn is the last spawning tributary for the native brown trout. It flows into the river Devon just above the bridge where all the camping problems are and anything upsetting the natural balance of the river in this area could have a negative effect on the brown trout population.’

The cooperation is not limited to Perth and Kinross-shire. Central Police is also involved, as is Muckhart Community Council and Friends of the Ochils. Stuart Dean, Chair of the Friends of the Ochils and Secretary of Muckhart Community Council says: ‘Finding a permanent solution to this problem proves to be difficult. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code promotes responsible behaviour when enjoying the outdoors, but in reality there are few consequences when people behave in an irresponsible manner. Farmers and landowners have little redress and while most of them welcome walkers and campers in the Ochils, there needs to be effective ways to deal with the minority of people who keep littering and vandalising.’

Mike Barnacle, Independent Kinross-shire Member of Perth and Kinross Council states: ‘Since the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 was passed, the spirit of which I endorse, it has become clear that there are a number of issues relating to access to land and water that require to be re-examined in the light of experience, not that the Act has been in force for some time. In particular the issue of interpretation of what is meant by wild camping, when large groupings if people are involved and the need for adequate sanctions against those not taking access to private land and water in a responsible manner. I intend to work with the community in seeking that MSPs look again at the access legislation. It should not be necessary to require bye-laws to control such matters.’

Whilst it is clear that there is no quick fix for this problem, the community, in co-operation with Perth and Kinross Council, will continue to work together to find and implement solutions. Dunning Glen should be a beauty spot for all to enjoy.

1. Attending: S Morrison, T Wigman-Duffy, A Lavery, S Anderson, K Bothwick. Cllr. M Barnacle, Cllr K Baird, Sergeant Williams, Nine Members of the public (MoP)
Apologies: A Cheape, M Anness R. Cooper.

2. Declarations of interest: None.

3. Community Policing – A report has been sent in advance in case police presence at this meeting can’t happen for operational reasons. New Community Officer is Victoria Riches. Issues mentioned:

Between 11/7 & 13/7 – Theft of construction and plant equipment from Lambhill farm, Rumbling Bridge – under enquiry.
Between 27/06 & 30/06 – Theft of construction and plant equipment from a plot of land formally known as Craigend farm, Powmill – under enquiry.
20/6 – Theft of construction and plant equipment from building plot at Back Crook, Crook of Devon – under enquiry.
Also, be aware of bogus callers: over the past few weeks Tayside Police has received a large number of complaints, or intelligence reports in relation to people – sometimes elderly and vulnerable residents – being called by people claiming to be from banks, financial institutions, government bodies and even lottery operators with promises of ready cash. This also includes one local resident.

4. Minutes of the last meeting – Burnside Wind Farm: Cllr Barnacle said that he had said “The Council had made a landscape assessment and decided that only one farm was appropriate”, but he had not made any comment about financial issues. With this amendment noted, the minutes were signed off.

5. T-in-the-Park (T-i-t-P) Debrief – Police thought that it went reasonably well. Seemed to be more traffic than before so more areas were policed to control it. MoP commented that the security guards at the junctions were very helpful in helping local people to get out.

Some back roads weren’t grass cut so made it very difficult to pass oncoming traffic. Cllr Baird explained that the contract for grass cutting has changed this year (starting 1st July) and there were some issues so things got behind. There is only going to be one cut per year for budget reasons. Sandy comments that even if there is not enough budget to do all verges, then road ends/junctions need to be done more extensively for road safety reasons. Kevin wonders if T-i-t-P couldn’t do some of this prior to the festival?

MoP commented that on consulting a member of PKC to get advice about directions they were given bad advice to use a road that was actually closed.

Alastair felt that there was a problem with traffic (especially heavy goods) during set-up (using new entrances) being a bit arrogant – needs to be brought up with Committee. MoP observes that this caused a few problems during morning rush-hour prior to start of festival.

Some junctions weren’t properly controlled Thursday night, security not always stopping non-residents. Police observed that there were a lot more resident’s passes handed out than before – it appears that Sands give them out fairly freely – this needs addressing. MoP thinks that more people are using Rumbling Bridge to avoid some of the queues. Perhaps it would make sense to have lights/police officer at A977/Rumbling Bridge junction.

Cllr Barnacle observes that issues should be brought up at forum – especially verge cutting. Noise louder this year because site re-oriented to avoid pipeline.

Sandy had complaint that the published Police T-i-t-P hot-line just went to Tayside police. A car parked on pavement at Fossoway garage was alleged to be working on behalf of Police, and caused pedestrians difficulty in passing it.

6. Spill and Pollution of the River Devon Trudy had received email from A. Heidemann about dead fish in river, and contacted K. Stevens from PKC Environment Department who said that there were ongoing investigations into three unrelated incidents: Castle Hill reservoir turn-over; Acid spill; High amount of Aluminium Sulphate. Trudy asked why people hadn’t been notified, e.g. Scouts from nearby camp swimming in River. Clacks Council has given out a warning but PKC hasn’t. PKC could have given warning via CC.

Kevin reported that his angling association contacted SEPA who, as a result, had put up a notice for the attention of the Scouts. It’s not just a question of the dead fish but the long term effects. MoP observed the report in the Dundee Courier was very vague about the location so next to useless.

Sandy spoke to Scottish Water and told them we expected someone to come to the CC and explain – this can’t happen until the investigation is complete because of legal position, but they have agreed to do this later on.

Cllr Barnacle commented that his first notification was when a reporter asked him about it! Cllr Barnacle got in touch with Scottish Water, SEPA and Tom Brighton at PKC. He asked Tom why he hadn’t heard about it from PKC.

7. Matters Arising

Blairingone Biomass Plant: No planning applications received, rumour that it has been sold back to Oran.

War Memorial, Blairingone: Cllr Barnacle reports that John McCrone from PKC emailed him so Cllr Barnacle phoned him – situation is that PKC won’t provide land nor sell land at front of Church to developer because Historic Scotland want to retain control of what’s in front of the listed building. Planner says that developer and council are happy for memorial to stay where it is. This CC , reflecting the community view, wants it moved. Planners say that someone from the community should make a listed building application to get consent to move the memorial, then apply for funds. Cllr Barnacle is still trying to arrange meeting with Council officials, the developers and the Blairingone sub-group, preferably on site to find a solution to this problem. Developer is considering legal action to obtain land to get access to the house. Planners are saying that there isn’t enough community support.

Dunning Glen: Trudy reports that the CC’s press release, including photos, had been published in some local papers. PR also sent to MSPs. Some measures have been taken to prevent parking, but they’re not working.

Accessibility Path Around Crook of Devon: Cllr Barnacle mailed Dave Stubbs (Access Officer) and planners about core path between Old Railway Institute and Church. Path is secured by existing planning conditions and hence the current signs are in breach of that. Cllr Barnacle has proposed signs to dissuade horse users by explaining that it’s a footpath and a safe route to School. PKC would agree to self-closing gate but not kissing gate, even though the former would not prevent horses.

Church Car Park: Malcolm Hill has been most helpful and is progressing this. It should be completed soon. Note that this will be available to all members of the community not just church users.

8. CC Business – Meetings Attended

Kevin reports that the Association of Scottish Community Councils is going to be disbanded because funding has been reduced such that they can’t continue. Will take about a year to wind up and arrange alternative insurance currently provided to members.

Convention of Perth and Kinross Community Councils: Kevin and Sandy attended, nine attendees out of forty CCs in PKC. Not much happening, no chair, secretary proposes disbandment.

PKC have issued CCs with new code of conduct, alignment of financial year, etc. CC Elections to be in November. PKC will now run elections – members are elected for four years. Sandy encourages people to come forward especially from Blairingone which has a lot of issues at the moment. Cllr Barnacle points out that it’s important that people understand CCs are the first stage in the democratic process, especially for planning matters.

9. PKC Business, Councillor Barnacle’s Report:
Verge Cutting – contacted Lesley Anne Cassidy, and asked if road safety aspect had been considered. Replies that verge cutting must be tendered, delayed until 5th July. Service provision is the same everywhere, PKC’s standards are being met by the contractor. T-i-t-P area requested too late to do properly.

Environment Committee Report in June proposed that one of the Crook of Devon play areas in Fossoway Glebe be closed, Cllr. Barnacle thinks this is acceptable because there is a main play area nearby. Equipment will be removed and reused if appropriate, then area grassed over and maintained. MoP suggests that barriers be erected near main play area to prevent children rushing on to road.

Blairingone Notice Board – is now refurbished, thanks to John Anderson for doing that.

Burnfoot Hill Wind Farm – no planning application yet, Cllr Barnacle will write to Ian Dogood, planning officer at Clacks, suggesting review of wind farms in Ochils as a whole.

It seems unreasonable for applications for essential (farm) workers developments to have to pay planning levy.

Mike thinks that the Kinross CCs should be talking to each other, at least twice a year, and is happy to facilitate getting a meeting going. What does the CC think? Sandy and Trudy agree that it would be useful, probably previous forum didn’t work because it was trying to cover too large an area.

10. Planning Applications

Alastair notes that whoever is doing his job after the elections needs to work out a plan to cover planning applications received in June when there is no CC meeting – it is difficult to obtain quorum via email in order for the CC to make a valid comment.

Planning Matters – June and July 2011

11/01161/FLL. The Beeches Rumbling Bridge Kinross KY13 0QQ Alteration and extension to dwellinghouse (in part retrospect).
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11/01136/IPL. House Drum Kinross KY13 0PP Erection of a dwellinghouse (in principle).
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11/01096/FLL. Cairnfold Bungalow Blairingone Dollar FK14 7ND Erection of a general purpose shed and an equestrian shed.
Recommendation. Reject as contrary to the revised Buildings in the Countryside Policy of the Local Plan.

11/01007/FLL. Vine House Rumbling Bridge Kinross KY13 0PY Alterations and extension of existing garage outbuilding to form ancillary residential accommodation.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11/01030/FLL. Land 70 Metres South West Of 1 Craiglaw Poultry Farm Cottage Rumbling Bridge
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11/00947/FLL. Hallyards House Wood Of Coldrain Coldrain Kinross KY13 0QW Change of Use of existing domestic dog kennels into commercial dog boarding kennels.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11/00776/FLL Cairnfold Farm Blairingone Erection of a dwellinghouse, garage and barn.
Recommendation. Reject as contrary to Local Plan and differing significantly from the existing permission in principle.

11/01018/PN Keith Hills Rumbling Bridge Kinross KY13 0QQ Erection of an agricultural building.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11/00952/FLL Land To The Rear Of Vicar's Bridge Road Blairingone Erection of a dwellinghouse .
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11/01012/FLL Schiehallion Crook of Devon, Kinross KY13 0UL Sub-division of existing house to form two dwellings.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment. Application refused

11/00931/PN Golland Carnbo Kinross KY13 0NU Erection of an agricultural building.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment. Application approved

11/00862/FLL Coates Cottage Powmill Dollar FK14 7NN Alterations and extension.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment. Application approved.

11/00891/IPL Sunnyside Drum Kinross KY13 0PP Erection of a dwellinghouse (in principle).
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11. General Correspondence –All outgoing and incoming correspondence was available for viewing.

12. A.O.C.B: Megs Farm - Dogs in Silage Fields. We don’t want to stop people walking in the countryside but they need to stop their dogs fouling the silage field which will potentially harm the cattle later eating the silage. MoP suggests a press release like the Dunning Glen one.

MoP observes that the Kinross Fund will now only give money to “projects” rather than things like normal running costs. Note that T-i-t-P money goes to this fund and they think that they are benefitting the community. Trudy thinks that this has always been the case, although it’s possible that previously the fund was less robust about the definition of a project.

MoP: School bus pick-up point at Carnbo has a new shelter and untrimmed grass surrounding it. Whose responsibility is this? Cllr. B will look into this.

MoP: Trees overhanging road near school are scratching cars.

A91/A977 Loop Road could get special designation for walkers, cyclists, and other non-vehicular use, which would prevent automatic rights of access for HGVs, etc. If community members support this they should contact the CC. MoP suggests that it might be better to get weight limits put on the roads instead.

Next Meeting - Tuesday 6th September 2011, 7.30pm
Blairingone Primary School

All Welcome!

Tullibole Castle

Art Exhibition From Sat 3rd September to Sat 10th Sept at Tullibole Castle, Crook of Devon, Kinross.

Part of “Perthshire Open Studios 2011”

I am delighted to host Pauline McGee art work at Tullibole Castle, Kinross on this the eve of the 350 Anniversary of the worst year, 1662, in which 402 people were accused of witchcraft in Scotland". 2012 will be a potent year for Crook of Devon as 11 innocent persons met their doom in the village after 5 trials in 1662.

Fossoway and District Community Council
Meeting 6 September 2011, Blairingone

Attending: Sandy Morrison (chair), Marion Anness, Ransay Cooper, Kevin Borthwick, Alastair Lavery, Trudy Duffy-Wigman and 15 members of the public.

Apologies: Sheila Anderson, Angus Cheape, Mike Barnacle, Willie Robertson

Declarations of Interest: Trudy Duffy – Wigman declares an interest in planning application 11/0181/IPL

Community Policing: there was no officer available as our new community officer was dealing with an incident, this report was sent after the meeting.

Householders are once again urged to be on their guard against cold callers who phone or email unprompted and offer loans, rebates or rewards. In recent weeks Tayside Police has received a number of complaint, or intelligence reports in relation to people – sometimes elderly and vulnerable residents – being called or emailed by people claiming to be from banks, financial institutions, government bodies and even lottery operators with promises of ready cash. However, an upfront fee is invariably requested to allow the main transaction to take place.

In many instances the householder has been advised to make a payment using Ukash. This involved buying a Ukash voucher and then providing the cold caller with the voucher’s serial number. Ukash provide a warning on their website about bogus callers, see www.ukash.com for more information.
Action Fraud provides a great deal of advice in relation to all types of fraud and advice about how to avoid becoming a victim of the fraudster. For further information see – www.actionfraud.org.uk
Recent crimes/issues in the area:
30/08/11 – Fossoway primary school – vandalism – under enquiry
30/08/11 – Powmill Milk Bar – vandalism – under enquiry
03/08/11 – Gartwhinzean, Powmill – Vandalism to motor car – Under enquiry

Street Sports 4 All in Kinross
 Tayside Police Community Officers in  Kinross and Bridge of Earn have arranged to set up ‘Street Sports 4 All’ during July and August in a bid to keep young people occupied, active, and divert them away from engaging in antisocial behaviour. The sessions are free and open to all school age children in the area. Places do not need to be booked.
 
Saturday 10th September 2011 – held at Poakmoak funday at Scotlandwell between 1400-1600 hours (All welcome)
Saturday 8th October 2011 – Public park at Crook of Devon between 1900-2100 hours (all welcome)

Minutes of the meeting in August were signed off without amendments.

Matters arising:

Blairingone Play Park refurbishment
Good turn-out on the fun/ consultation day. There is money to take this forward although the community will have to raise funds as well. Main problem is the location: the site is owned by Lt Col Stewart, who leases it out to PKC. Lt Col Stewart has the intention of developing his land (including the land where the play park currently is) for housing and is awaiting the Main Issues Report to see whether he will be able to put in a formal planning application in for his development. If that is the case, the play park would be relocated to a site with other amenities, such as a football pitch, a site including car parking for a village hall etc. If this transpires, it would be unwise to refurbish the play park at the current location. On the other hand, putting it all on hold would mean we would lose the momentum. Thanks to Lt Col Stewart for providing information about the site.
Action: revisit in December, when the MIR is out; Marion to talk to parents in Primary School and see whether a committee could be set up. Trudy to inform Steven Kane.

Blairingone War Memorial
Meeting on Tuesday 30 August on-site with three PKC officials, the developers, Mike Barnacle, Marion Anness and Trudy Duffy – Wigman. Outcome was very positive: developer will re-site memorial to preferred site behind the church and built a plinth. Nice site for a memorial; PKC may develop surroundings with flowers and a bench. The developer will be granted access to and around the church, although the church grounds cannot be sold. CC will have to apply for planning permission (listed building)- but CC has no money for the costs involved. Are we sure all the relatives are happy enough with re-location of memorial? Last living relative in the area is happy enough. We will publicise process in the newsletter, notice boards and on the websites, allowing for a period for comments from relatives before going through the planning application process.
Action: Trudy to phone War Memorial Commission. Publicise intentions before proceding with planning application.

Dunning Glen
Full go-ahead to do the clean-up. Will be end of October, when the vegetation starts to die down. The clean-up is funded by a grant from PKC. The bunding put in place by PKC does not seem to have made a difference. We will also continue to take part in multi-agency meetings to keep managing the problem, as well as approaching MSPs for more fundamental solutions.
Action: go ahead in October/ November and monitor the situation.

Pollution in the River Devon
These incidents are under investigation and may result in some prosecution of Scottish Water. The CC is unhappy with the actions PKC has taken to warn those affected by the spills. A letter to K. Steven (PKC) has been sent to that effect. We will follow this up once the report is finished. With thanks to Angela Heidemann for alerting many neighbours.
Action: await PKC response.

Verge cutting
See Kathleen Baird’s report in the newsletter. Some verges have been cut twice, despite PKC saying only one cut was provided for. CC still unhappy with road-ends cutting.

Biomass plant
CC does not know what is happening or who owns the site at the moment. Gates are closed, prohibiting access to walks.
Action: Marion to contact Forestry Commission to clarify.

Church Car Park Crook of Devon
Technicians have now measured up. PKC will prepare plan to be sent to the Church. The Church then has to mark up the plan and apply for planning permission (change of use). The car park surface would be the same as the existing path. Notices would be erected prohibiting overnight parking. The whole process of obtaining change of use was unlikely to be completed before the end of the year. Church has also put in spaces for disabled people near the entrance of the church and asks the community to respect those spaces.
Action: await return of outline plan

CC Business
Elections for all the CCs now on the same day and are organised by PKC. Nomination forms available from half September; have to be in by 29 September for election in November. There will be a postal vote but the exact procedure is yet unclear. The applicants, their nominators and seconders have to live in the CC area.
Action: distribute forms.
All are welcome to stand for election: we need people from all the villages to represent their communities.

Planning Matters August 2011.
11/01389/FLL. Site of White Wisp Crook of Devon. Erection of replacement house.
No Community Council comment.
11/01354/FLL. Solsgirth House Solsgirth Dollar FK14 7NZ Temporary erection of a marquee for use as function venue.
No Community Council comment.
11/01403/FLL. Land 50 Metres South East of Cardrona Drum. Proposed erection of temporary timber field shelter.
No Community Council comment.
11/01382/FLL. Easter Coldrain Farmhouse Coldrain Kinross KY13 0QW Partial conversion of outbuilding to extend living accommodation.
No Community Council comment.
11/01378/FLL. Greenparks Church Road Crook Of Devon Kinross KY13 0UY Alterations and extension to existing garage to provide 1st floor accommodation and alterations.
No Community Council comment.
11/01291/FLL. Plot 2 Naemoor Gardens Rumbling Bridge Erection of dwellinghouse and garage, installation of photovoltaic panel array.
Consultation period expired.
11/01281/IPL. Land 40 Metres West of Devonlade, Main Street Crook of Devon. Erection of a dwellinghouse (in principle).
Recommedation. Reject, on grounds of poor and dangerous access to the site.

Applications approved
08/01561/FLM, Land At Easter Muirhead Farm Blairingone Perthshire
Formation of an equestrian centre including utility shed, indoor riding school, stables, erection of 4 chalets/cottages and 7 dwellinghouses all with associated car parking.
11/00753/FLL, Westermuirhead Farm Solsgirth Dollar FK14 7NB, Erection of 2 dwellinghouses.

Applications refused
11/00891/IPL, Sunnyside Drum Kinross KY13 0PP, Erection of a dwellinghouse (in principle).
11/00188/FLL, Middleton Fossoway KY13 0PB , Erection of a wind turbine.

CCs are statutory consultees in the planning process, but do not seem to get the same time frame to respond to planning applications as other statutory consultees.
Action: Alastair to query this.

Correspondence
East Coast Upgrade to 400kV. Mike has written about this and we will discuss this next meeting. What will an upgrade like this mean for the houses near the powerline?
Action: on the agenda next meeting.

Speed limit Review
PKC is reviewing the speed limit on the A823 (Rumbling Bridge to A977), and proposes to lower it to 30 Mph.
Action: Trudy to write in support of this.

CPKCC
Sent us at very short notice notification of liaison meeting between CPKCC and planning officers of PKC.
Action: At further meetings, Trudy to write to stress that CPKCC has no mandate from us to liaise on our behalf.

AOCB
Bus shelter in Carnbo: no cutting has been done and sight is bad.
Action: revisit this next meeting.

4 June 2012: Beacons will be lit all over the UK (Diamond Jubilee). Will there be a beacon in Crook of Devon?

Ditches need to be cleaned: advice is to approach PKC as an individual to request cleaning.

Core Path Kinross to Stirling: landowners objected. Since then no progress?
Action: ask Mike Barnacle

Agenda Next meeting:
Welcome and apologies
Declarations of Interest
Community Policing
Minutes previous meeting
Matters arising
Community Council Business
Councillors’ reports
Planning Applications
Correspondence
AOCB

Next meeting Tuesday 4 October
Fossoway Primary School
All Welcome

I see from this a proposal to upgrade the power line to 400kv. As a Drum resident I suggest that the CC petition SSE to re-route the current cable away from Drum as part of this investment. There are plenty of alternative solutions to re-routing the cable to avoid residential areas e.g. taking the cable to the East of South Kilduff or to the North of Lendrick Muir. SSE are clearly looking to use the existing infrastructure to avoid the issues of "Mega-Pylons" as in the Beauly-Denny project and to keep costs down. I would also suggest that we petition on behalf of Blairingone residents to have the pylon line moved North away from the village.

Meeting 4 October 2011, Fossoway School

Attending: Sandy Morrison (chair), Marion Anness, Ramsay Cooper, Kevin Borthwick, Angus Cheape, Alastair Lavery, Trudy Duffy-Wigman, Councillors K Baird, M Barnacle, W Robertson and 11 members of the public.

Apologies: Sheila Anderson, Community Police Officer

Declarations of Interest: None

Community Policing

A report had been sent to the Secretary and was available with the correspondence. The main points were the break in at the school with laptops and various other items stolen, incidents of vandalism and an accident at the crossing at the hall which is under investigation.
A scam letter involving a Chinese bank was highlighted. The Sports for All on Saturday 8 October in Crook of Devon public park between 6 and 8 pm was highlighted. It was pointed out that it would be dark at that time.
A member of the public raised a problem regarding runaways from Seamab with children being on people’s roofs and throwing stones at the school building. He was advised to contact the Community Police Officer at the time of any incident. The Secretary will report the matter to the Community Police Officer.
Action: Trudy Duffy-Wigman

Minutes of the meeting of 6 September were signed off without amendments

Matters Arising

Blairingone Play Park Refurbishment

Action: revisit in December.

Blairingone War Memorial

Action: Trudy Duffy-Wigman to contact War Memorial Commission. Community to raise money for the fee for planning application.

Dunning Glen

An article appeared in the Courier about Dunning Glen, which resulted in a BBC interview with Kevin and Trudy on site. The emphasis was to re-look at the access code. Thanks to Kevin and Trudy for their efforts.
Action: Clean up to take place in November

Pollution in River Devon

Action: Await PKC detailed response and Scottish Water response

Biomass Plant

There has been no further action from the developer.
Action: Marion Anness to contact Forestry Commission

Church Car Park, Crook of Devon

Plans of area now agreed.
Action: Church to submit planning application

Core Paths

Still going through final representations and the Reporter has to come back with his findings. An issue re Carnbo was raised and will be dealt with locally.
Action: Alistair Lavery

Carnbo Bus Shelter

Branches have been cut back.

Hedge Cutting

The hedge opposite Fossoway School has still not been cut. Local landowner has been contacted. The Council will not cut hedges in summer unless they are a hazard because of wildlife.

Jenny Cruick from the Forestry Commission gave a presentation regarding future plans for access to the forest area. Two maps were circulated. The commission was currently negotiating with two landowners re access and had considerable plans for further access. There was also some discussion re tree planting and she confirmed it would be conifers and broadleaf.
Action: Marion to monitor progress

East Coast 400KV Reinforcement Project

Councillor Mike Barnacle has written to SSE.

CC Business

Elections

Five nominations had been received for Fossoway - Sandy, Trudy, Alistair, Kevin and Rod Paterson. It was understood that Sheila and Angus were willing to continue but were on holiday when the forms were issued and therefore could not sign them. They can both be co-opted. The Chair requested volunteers for the remaining vacancy. He thanked Marion and Ramsay for their contributions to date and regretted that they were unable to continue as CC members.

Kinross-shire Forum

Alistair, Kevin and Sandy had attended a meeting arranged by Mike to re-constitute the Forum. The meeting had been attended by Councillor Baird and all Kinross-shire CCs apart from Glenfarg.

The meeting agreed that it would be useful to explore the formation of a Kinross-shire Community Council Network for the prupose of exchanging information, discussing best practice, providing mutual help and assistance to CCs and when necessary co-ordinating actions by CCs for the benefit of Kinross-shire. It would be a discussion network not an executive or decision making body. The meetings would include representatives from all Kinross-shire CCs and ward Councillors. Glenfarg CC would be invited to re-consider its position.

The KCCN is approved of by PKC and room hire for 2 meetings a year will be paid for by PKC. A further meeting to progress the matter will be held in January 2012. The CC recommended that Fossoway should take part and this was agreed.

Councillors’ Reports

Mike had written a number of letters on the following issues: East Coast 400KV, Play Park, speed limit Rumbling Bridge, roads, signage etc. He congratulated Crook of Devon for coming second in the Best Kept Village Competition. Local Councillors were having a meeting with the Head of Planning next week.

Willie reported the builders yard at Simon Wilson Homes would be moved by spring 2012.

Planning Matters September 2011

11/01584/FLL Balhousie, Rumbling Bridge Care Home, Rumbling Bridge, Kinross KY130XP. Variation of existing planning consent (internal only).
Recommendation: No community Council comment.

11/01502/FLL Land to the North East of the Poplars, Drum. Erection of dwellinghouse (09/01174/AML) change of house type and re-position house on plot.
Recommendation: Reject on grounds of variation from existing planning permission in site, provision of a footpath, flooding and height of building.

11/01568/IPL Newhall Farm, Solsgirth, Dollar FK147NE.
Recommendation: No Community Council comment.

11/01541/FLL Greenparks, Church Road, Crook of Devon, Kinross KY130UY. Renewal of planning consent 06/00999/FUL.
Recommendation: No Community Council comment.

General Correspondence

Trudy went through the correspondence some of which had already been dealt with. It was all available for viewing.

AOCB

The representative from TRACKS reported that work had stopped on the old railway line at Crook of Devon due to lack of funding but it was hoped further funding could be obtained. The final part of the heritage track round Loch Leven was to be officially opened on 31 October.

Street Name Carnbo

After considerable discussion it was felt that the most appropriate name was Pitcairnie Lane.

Loop Road U222

The Chair stated that there were forms for people to sign if they wished regarding the loop road. The intention was to try and have the road designated as unsuitable for HGVs apart from those involved in local business such as farmers, G M Baird’s fish haulage and local access. He was concerned to have something in place before the quarry at Glenquay was developed. There was considerable discussion on this item.

The meeting closed at 9.10pm.

Agenda Next meeting

Welcome and apologies
Declarations of Interest
Community Policing
Minutes previous meeting
Matters arising
Community Council Business
Councillors’ reports
Planning Applications
Correspondence
AOCB

Minutes of Meeting

Blairingone School, 1st November 2011, 7.30pm

1. Attending: A Lavery, S Anderson, M Anness, K Borthwick, A Cheape, R Cooper, Cllr. M Barnacle.

21 Members of the public

Apologies: S Morrison, T Wigman-Duffy, W. Robertson

In Sandy’s absence Alastair chaired the meeting.

2. Declarations of interest: There were no declarations of interest.

3. Community Policing - The police officer warned the meeting that theft of farm equipment had been reported, and that extra vigilance was needed. Farm gates, horse equipment, machinery had been stolen recently. Access roads to farms should be locked if at all possible. There was also a problem in the area with the theft of drain covers.
The Police have launched a “Keep safe in Autumn” campaign.

4. Minutes of the last meeting – The minutes were signed off without amendments.

5. Matters Arising:

War Memorial, Blairingone -Trudy has emailed the War Memorial Commission but has had no reply so far. Removal of the memorial will require a planning application. John McCrone is the council member to contact.
Action: Trudy to follow up. Planning application (who?)

Dunning Glen - A grant has been obtained to fund a “clean-up” and this will take place 15th November.

Seamab -Trudy has raised the matter of children from SEAMAB climbing on neighbours’ roofs with the Police Community Officer.

Pollution of the River Devon - PKC would like to take the up the CC’s offer of talking about an early warning system, and have suggested a meeting. Kevin and Trudy will attend. Clackmannanshire Council issued a warning of pollution (which is down- stream from PKC) and Crook of Devon received no warnings at all. Scottish Water won’t comment because of the investigation into the incident.
Action: Trudy and Kevin to organise a meeting and report back.

6. Ken Thomson Homes - Ken Thomson Homes gave a presentation showing the proposed development of 31 homes in Rumbling Bridge. This is on the Braehead Farm site. The development is to be sustainable, containing eco- friendly houses built to gold standard, with heat pumps and photovoltaic panels. There are 6 affordable homes planned aimed at the restricted mobility market. There is a public consultation meeting on 17th November 12 – 8 pm in Moubray Hall, Powmill. Everyone is welcome. More details on the Fossoway website. Ken Thomson will organise a leaflet drop in Rumbling Bridge to publicise the event. Mike Barnacle stated that the development was contrary to the local plan and the emerging plan. Rumbling Bridge was not one of the options in the PKC plan. The local plan is still the guiding influence until 2014.
Ken Thomson was thanked for his presentation.

7. Community Council Business – From next month onwards there will be a new CC. Marion and Ramsay are stepping down and were thanked for their contribution. Sandy, Alastair, Kevin, Trudy and Rod Paterson have been nominated and thus elected unopposed. The CC may co-opt some members who have been unable to get their nominations in on time. A meeting should be held within 28 days from 3rd November to announce the results of the election and appoint a chairperson.
Action: Extra-ordinary general meeting to be called. (Mike)

8. PKC Business, Councillor’s Report – Mike Barnacle announced that a meeting of the Kinross network of CCs would take place on 18th January at the Campus. This will create a forum for CCs with common interests in the area.
Some councillors have had a planning meeting with David Littlejohn to discuss procedure. He took on board the concerns of the councillors. The emerging plan and the work on the local strategy groups formed part of the discussion. There will be a further meeting on 7th December to discuss what’s in the local plan.

9. Planning Applications -

11/01604/FLL. Easter Muirhead Bothy, Blairingone, Dollar. FK14 7ND. Extension to dwellinghouse.
Recommendation. No Community Council Comment

11/01810/FLL. Land West Of Station Road Crook Of Devon. Erection of dwellinghouse and detached garage. Recommendation. No Community Council Comment.

Approvals.

11/01625/PN. Wester Aldie Farm Rumbling Bridge Kinross KY13 0QQ. Erection of agricultural building.

Withdrawn

11/01281/IPL. Dwellinghouse 40m west of Devonlade, Main Street, Crook of Devon.

10/01576/FLL. Land West Of Station Road Crook Of Devon. Erection of dwellinghouse and detached garage.

10. General Correspondence –All outgoing and incoming correspondence was available for viewing.

11. A.O.C.B – Issues of flooded roads because of blocked ditches was raised. Also hedges overhanging roads. There was also a question raised regarding having adequate road-salt supplies for the winter.
There will be “T in the Park” meeting 16th November, Windlestrae Hotel, Kinross.
The CC wasn’t informed about the removal of the 20mph limit at Fossoway School. This will be revisited.
There will be a Campus Partnership meeting if anyone is interested.

Extra-ordinary General meeting (agenda will follow) 6 December 7.00 in Fossoway Primary.

Agenda Next meeting:
• Welcome and apologies
• Declarations of Interest
• Community Policing
• Minutes previous meeting
• Matters arising
• Community Council Business
• Councillors’ reports
• Planning Applications
• Correspondence
• AOCB

Next Meeting
Tuesday 6th December 2011 7.30pm
Fossoway Primary School

All Welcome!

HELP!

The Institute urgently requires VOLUNTEERS from the COMMUNITY to join the COMMITTEE.

The Institute is a community asset which is owned and operated by the community.

The forthcoming AGM is on Wednesday 23 November at 7.30pm.

A number of the existing committee members are resigning at the AGM which will mean there will be requirement for new people to be committee members and fill some positions such as Treasurer. It would be particularly useful if younger members of the COMMUNITY and current USERS become involved in the operation of the INSTITUTE.

Please contact Roger Clifton, Shane or Audrey Johnston, Stuart Shand, Gary Harvey, Jimmy Johnson, Archie Paterson or Sandy Morrison if you are prepared to HELP or hand a nomination for the committee to Audrey Johnston by Thursday 17 November.

Thank you in anticipation

Sandy Morrison

Chairperson

I was sent some information about Winter Watch earlier this week and would like to spread the word around Fossoway, and beyond, of the benefits that it brings.

With the cold weather setting in, it seems like a good time to remind everyone to watch out for their neighbours, who might appreciate a helping hand to deal with the challenges that a Scottish Winter can bring.

What Is Winter Watch?

Winter watch is a new scheme, run by Voluntary Action Perthshire, which is designed to put helpers in touch with those needing a bit of a hand to deal with wintry conditions.

The scheme is looking for volunteers who are willing to help people in the community who need extra support during the winter months. If you could help clear paths, collect shopping or prescriptions, provide transport or anything elase, please get in touch with Voluntary Action Perthshire to get your name included on the list of contacts.

What Kinds of Help Are Needed?

Are there any specific areas of need you can (or already do) assist with?
For example:

• Visiting elderly or vulnerable neighbours?
• Clearing roads & pathways of snow?
• Provide a community facility for accommodation?
• Source and distribute clothing or bedding& blankets locally?
• Cleaning up after flooding?
• Befriending to provide emotional and practical support to those individuals affected?
• Picking up and delivering prescriptions from pharmacies?
• Assisting search & rescue teams?

If so, please contact Voluntary Action Perthshire at the details below.

Do You Need Some Help But Don't Know Who To Ask?

If you are more dependent than others in your community with no family nearby, is there anything you need help with when severe weather strikes?

Simply contact VA Perthshire using the details below.

Contact VA Perthshire to Volunteer or Get Help

You can volunteer to provide help or request help that you need by contacting Voluntary Action Perthshire using the following contact details:

Also, here is a copy of the registration form.

Voluntary Action Perthshire, The Gateway, North Methven Street, Perth, PH1 5PP
Telephone Anna on 01738 452227 and leave your name, address, e-mail address and telephone number.

Tell us what you offer or what help you need when heavy snow, extreme cold or flooding affects you or your community.
Email: gro.erihshtrepav|ofni#gro.erihshtrepav|ofni
Web: http://www.vaperthshire.org and look for Winter Watch.
Follow us on Twitter ‘WinterWatch’
Join our Facebook Group— ‘Winter Watch’

Spread The Word!

Please tell your friends, family and colleagues about this initiative.

You could also put up notices or distribute these leaflets.

Fossoway and District Community Council
Minutes of Meeting, Fossoway Primary School, Tuesday 6th December 2011

1. Attending: S Morrison, T Wigman-Duffy, A Lavery, K Bothwick, R Paterson. Cllr. M Barnacle
S Anderson has been co-opted onto the committee.
10 Members of the public
Apologies: A Cheape.

2. Declarations of interest: There were no declarations of interest.

3. Community Policing: Euan Mitchell attended.
There has been little reported crime in the area apart from a road traffic offence dealt with recently. Tayside Police are beginning their yearly drink-driving campaign for Christmas and New Year. They are also highlighting the need for safety measures in winter driving conditions. There is a “winter watch” strategy whereby people can help neighbours in times of severe weather.
Action: Trudy to put Winter Watch on the Fossoway Website

4. Minutes of the last meeting: The CC knew about the 20mph limit at Crook of Devon School and the minutes would be amended to reflect this.

5. Olympic Flame: The Olympic Flame comes through Crook of Devon, 13th June 2012 and there was discussion as to whether the CC should be involved. There are no notices from the council as yet. Mike Barnacle will find out if there is any guidance and report back.
Action: Mike to contact PKC, Trudy to contact Tayside Police and Fossoway Primary

6. Matters Arising

a. War Memorial, Blairingone: Sheila Anderson has agreed to take this forward and contact John McCrone from the council and the previous sub-group in order to begin the planning application process.
Action: Sheila to contact sub group to start process

b. Dunning Glen: 1.7 tonnes of rubbish were removed in the clean-up and a large sign will be erected warning people to keep the area free of rubbish, or penalties will be imposed. The CC were congratulated on their campaign and Kevin Bothwick was thanked for all his hard work to resolve this issue.
Action: Kevin will oversee the erection of the sign and we will attend the multi-agency meeting next year.

7. Traffic Issues: Tayside Police are beginning an experimental ‘Community Speed watch” programme and are looking for volunteers to help to monitor speeding. Rod Paterson will liaise with Trudy to take this forward.
There is to be a 30mph speed limit on the A823, several roads around Kinross will have a 40mph limit and traffic calming measures to be put in place on the A977. The positioning of the VAS location was discussed as it is thought that it is too far away from the school road entrance. A barrier along the pavement in the village was requested by Victoria Sutherland, as children sometimes walk in groups along the road on the corner between the shop and the school. A barrier might discourage children wandering dangerously into the road. The bus stop at Drum was also causing concern as there is little space for the children to wait. Mike Barnacle and the CC will take these matters forward.
Action: Rod and Trudy to take forward the ‘Community Speed Watch’ initiative. The CC to write in favour of the latest traffic calming measures and the barrier along the bend.

8. Ken Thomson Homes: Ken Thomson addressed the meeting with further information on the proposed development in Rumbling Bridge. He had held a public consultation meeting in November. Ken Thomson was questioned as to why he had not delivered leaflets to publicise the event as he had said he would. Some residents had only found out about the meeting from Mike Barnacle. Ken Thomson said he placed a notice in the Courier. Concerns were raised at the meeting regarding the density of housing, and he has reduced the planned 30 houses to 24.
At the CC meeting, some members of the public raised concerns over the proposed 6 houses for older people. They felt that Rumbling Bridge offered no amenities, such as regular buses or nearby shops.
A planning application will be lodged in the New Year.

9. Community Council Business: A Cheape attended a Kinross-shire Fund meeting on 12th December and will report back in January.

10. PKC Business, Councillor’s Report: Mike Barnacle said that there would be a sign at the Blairingone/Muirhead road end to indicate Tethyknowe and Muirhead. The flooding further down that road would also be seen to in January/February. He has been involved with a speed limit review but has had no response to his communication with Darrell McEwan yet. There will be a CC network meeting 18th January 7.00pm at the Kinross Campus. There has been a request for increased capacity for “T in the Park” for the Friday. 20,000 more tickets to be sold. Mike’s meeting with Nick Brian on planning matters was postponed. There has been council briefing on the emerging local plan. In the landward area there are plans for 30 houses in Scotlandwell, 120 houses in Powmill and none in Crook of Devon.

11. Planning Applications
11/01839/FLL. Cairnfold Farm Blairingone. Erection of an indoor horse arena building for equestrian business and erection of a dwellinghouse and garage.
An objection has been lodged by the Community Council following an email consultation.

11/01854/FLL. Former Farm Steadings Claysike Fossoway. Proposed amendment to house type (plot 3). Former Farm Steadings Claysike Fossoway.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment

11/01973/FLL. Blairingone Sewage Works Blairingone. Upgrading of Blairingone waste water treatment works, installation of lights and boundary fencing.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment

12. General Correspondence: All outgoing and incoming correspondence was available for viewing.

13. A.O.C.B: The Devon Lade in Crook of Devon has been damaged by storms and this may be a problem as a number houses may still use this as an outflow for their septic tanks. The CC will look into it. The Post Box in Carnbo has been removed for maintenance which is particularly unhelpful before Christmas. It is hoped it will be restored.

Next meeting 3 January 2012, 7.30 Moubray Hall, Powmill
All Welcome

Community Speed Trap

Fossoway and District Community Council have been offered the unique opportunity to take part in a pilot project by Tayside Police: ‘Community Speed Watch’. A group of approx. 10 volunteers will be vetted and trained by Tayside Police to carry out speed checks. The start date is in March and the duration of the pilot is three months. It will be accompanied by a media campaign, which can only be beneficial for our village.
We will need a group of 10 volunteers. Checks will be carried out on different times and days, so anyone can volunteer.

This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference to our village. We all have seen the road getting busier and busier and I know many of you are worried about the speed of the traffic through our village. Please consider giving up a little time to support this initiative. It is initially for three months only, and if we have 10 volunteers we can spread the workload.

If you think you may be able to give some time to this initiative, please get in touch with Trudy Duffy-Wigman, email moc.tenretnitb|namgiw.yffud#moc.tenretnitb|namgiw.yffud or leave a message on 01577 840669.

Perth and Kinross Council

Fossoway Community Council, an extra-ordinary General Meeting: Tuesday 6 December at 7pm

• Mike Barnacle introduced the meeting.
• Alastair Lavery proposed Alexander Morrison as Chair, seconded by Trudy Duffy- Wigman
• Sandy Morrison took over the chair from Mike Barnacle.
• Sandy Morrison proposed Alastair Lavery as Vice Chair; this was seconded by Kevin Borthwick.
• Alastair Lavery proposed Trudy Duffy – Wigman as Secretary, this was seconded by Rod Paterson.
• Alastair Lavery proposed Kevin Borthwick as Treasurer, this was seconded by Trudy Duffy – Wigman.
• Kevin Borthwick proposed Rod Paterson as Data Controller, this was seconded by Trudy Duffy – Wigman.
• The Constitution, Standing Orders and Code of Conduct for Community Councillors were adopted: proposer was Sandy Morrison and this was seconded by Trudy Duffy – Wigman.
• As of 6 December 2011, there was £776.61 in the current account and no outstanding invoices or un-cleared cheques.
• Meeting dates and venues for 2012. Meetings after the summer holidays and again after the Christmas holidays 2012 have to be confirmed, as the booking system of PKC cannot accommodate earlier bookings. The following is a proposal.

• Training Issues: Rod Paterson requested induction training and Data Controller information.
• A quorum for any meeting is 3 CCllrs.
• The financial year will run from 1st of April till the 31st of March.
• The AGM will be held in May.
• Notice Boards: Kevin Borthwick will do Rumbling Bridge and Powmill, Sheila Anderson will do Blairingone, Alastair Lavery will do Carnbo and Trudy Duffy – Wigman will do Crook of Devon.
• Sheila Anderson was co-opted to the Community Council.

The re-scheduled Community Council meeting will take place on Tuesday 10th January at Powmill, 7.30pm.

Tayside Police have been invited to the meeting and may be able to provide an update on the accident involving the tanker on the A977 in the Drum.

Fossoway and District Community Council

Minutes of Meeting, Moubray Hall, Powmill, Tuesday 10th January 2012 (postponed from 3rd)

1. Attending: S Morrison, T Wigman-Duffy, A Lavery, K Bothwick, S Anderson, 3 Members of the public.
Apologies: R Paterson, A Cheape, Cllr. M Barnacle, Cllr K. Baird, Cllr W. Robertson.

2. Declarations of interest: There were no declarations of interest.

3. Community Policing: Constable Sadie Allan attended.

No reported crime in our local area. Attempted housebreaking in Kinross area, recommend that people take extra care and report any suspicious activity.

The fire raising incidents in Kinross are still under investigation.

Tanker collision in Drum (near Blue Cedars) – investigations continue, householders concerned about pollution should contact SEPA or Scottish Water. Fossoway and District Community Council would like to extend their sympathy to the family of the lorry driver who was killed in this accident.

MoP asked about speeding in Carnbo, no information available, but will be brought to attention of the local officers.

4. Minutes of the last meeting: The Church had completed the plans for the Car Park. The minutes will be amended accordingly.

5. Matters Arising
a. War Memorial, Blairingone: S Anderson reports that John McCrone is away until the end of January.
Action: Sheila to follow up

b. Olympic Flame through Crook of Devon: Trudy has contacted the Community Police, but they don’t currently have any details, also contacted Primary school.
Action: Trudy to follow up

c. Community Speed Watch Programme: Trudy reports we have been invited to take part in a pilot programme. Volunteers will be trained by Tayside police to do speed checks and report offenders for possible further action. Trudy has advertised this widely and already ten volunteers have come forward. Plan is to cover Crook of Devon and possibly other areas later. Initial meeting this Sunday with the police at the Church Hall.
Action: Rod and Trudy to follow up

d. Devon Lade: Trudy contacted SEPA who told us that the landowner is responsible for clearing obstruction. Sandy reports that part of a retaining wall has collapsed, but machine access is very difficult, requiring some tree trimming and the lade to be fairly dry. Landowner has requested assistance in trimming branches, etc., but is planning to do work when feasible.
Action: Sandy to follow up, volunteers requested

e. Church Car Park: Sandy reports that the legal implications are being processed, and funding being sought, by the Church. Although the CC is not the lead, it may need to lead on funding.
Action: Sandy to follow up

6. Community Council Business: CC will be attending the Kinross-shire Community Council Network (this is an information exchange network and not an executive body.) 18 January (Sandy and Alastair)

7. Other meetings: T-in-the Park community Liaison 24 January(Kevin and Trudy), Dunning Glen meeting 7 February (Sandy, Kevin and Trudy).

8. PKC Business, Councillor’s Report: No councillors were present at the meeting; however Trudy has a report from Cllr Barnacle that the local plan has been approved to include 80 houses in Powmill.

9. Planning Applications

11/02016/FLL. Modification of existing consent (10/00510/IPL) Revision to siting, design and external appearance (Plot 4). Land Adjacent To Churchmouse Cottage Carnbo.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

11/02053/FLL. Erection of two wind turbines. Bankhead Farm Fossoway Kinross KY13 0PW.
Recommendation. Reject as contrary to Policy 2a and 17b of the Kinross Area Local Plan, exceeding the capacity of the surrounding landscape to absorb or screen the development.

11/02086/FLL, Demolition of garage, erection of replacement garage and carport and alterations to access road. Schiehallion Crook of Devon Kinross KY13 0UL.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

Decisions

11/01604/FLL, Extension to dwellinghouse Easter Muirhead Bothy Blairingone Dollar FK14 7ND

11/01608/FLL, Change of house type to plots 44-46 and 59-62 (05/01475/FUL) Plots 1-84 Station Road Kinross.

The Community Council did not object to either.

10. General Correspondence : All outgoing and incoming correspondence was available for viewing.

11. A.O.C.B: MoP asks if in light of recent storms, are Council going to review trees in Council-owned road verges for potential dangerous trees? MoP reports that they were previously told by the council that the landowner is responsible up to the middle of the road, but this may be affected by road status.

Draft agenda next meeting:
• Welcome and apologies
• Declarations of interest
• Minutes of last meeting
• Matters arising
• Community Council Business
• Councillors’ reports
• Planning applications
• Correspondence
• A.O.C.B

Next meeting: 7th February 2012, 7.30pm
Blairingone Primary School
All Welcome

Fossoway and District Community Council

Minutes of Meeting
Blairingone Primary School, Tuesday 7th February 2012

1. Attending: S Morrison, K Bothwick, S Anderson, R Paterson, A Cheape, Cllr. M Barnacle,
11 Members of the Public (MoP).
Apologies: T Duffy -Wigman, A Lavery, Cllr K. Baird, Cllr W. Robertson.

2. Declarations of interest: There were no declarations of interest.

3. Community Policing: No Police officer present – However report sent: Personal/ Shed / Multi-function alarms are available from Tayside Police at competitive prices – contact Community Safety Department on 01738 892642 for details. A Safer Internet awareness day for parents and carers of young people will be held at Perth cinema on 1st March. Contact Catriona Lang on 01738 477861 or ku.vog.ckp|gnialc#ku.vog.ckp|gnialc to book places at one of the four presentations that day. A Bogus Callers/Scam Busters Seminar will be held at AK Bell Library on 28th March from 09:30 -13:30. Contact PC Lesley McDonald or Ian Thomson on 01738 892642 to book. (By email: Victoria Riches, community police officer apologises for her absence, they were called to a 999 call when the meeting was on. She asked to add the following to the police report:
Recent crimes - Between 13/01 - 16/01 - Breahead farm, Rumbling Bridge - theft of 1000 litres of heating oil - Under enquiry.
Actions from previous meetings - Speeding complaint in Carnbo, This has been highlighted to the Road Policing Unit and speed checks will continue to be carried out in the area.)

4. Minutes of the last meeting: Were approved.

5. Progress & Matters Arising
a. War Memorial, Blairingone: S Anderson reports that she had contacted the interested parties but got no replies. John McCrone (Planning) said that permission and listed building consent required, however the fees would be reduced to £80 if the CC was applying. Grants Direct may be able to provide funding, if not the CC could fund it themselves.
Action: Sheila to apply for a grant and submit the Planning Application simultaneously.

b. Community Speed Watch Programme: Rod passes on information from Trudy – she attended the meeting in January with head of Tayside Traffic. Initially this will be trialled in Crook of Devon based on surveys, prosecution numbers etc. Will roll out to other villages (including Carnbo) if successful. 12-16 volunteers already signed up will be trained and work in pairs recording speed with laser gun, which will be kept in the Village shop. Vehicles exceeding limit by more than 10% will have number and colour recorded and details passed to Tayside Police who will write to offender. These records will be used in the event of any official action later. MoP asks if this is going to result in local people being harassed. Answer is that this will be extensively publicised and aim is to change mind-set of drivers. There was considerable discussion on the item which was generally welcomed.
Cllr Barnacle reports that the automatic speed signs on A977 will be operating shortly after long discussions. Kinross CC have proposed that it might be useful to make the A977 a trunk road so it would get more finance – they will liaise with this CC who are against the idea.

c. Devon Lade: Sandy reports that this will be progressed when weather permits.

d. Church Car Park: Sandy reports that the Church is still progressing this through their legal people.
Action: Sandy to follow up when church have progressed to planning application stage.

e. Roadside Trees: Last meeting MoP asked about trees after winds – will Council review this? MoP reports that there’s an overhanging branch on the Millennium Walk. There was some discussion and it was established that it is the landowners responsibility to take care of trees which overhang or come down on the roads.

f. Olympic Flame
Trudy to follow up.

6. Tayside and Local Development Plans
Cllr Barnacle reports that there will be consultations about the local plan. He’s intending to give presentations about them to local residents on 23rd February at Institute, Crook of Devon (covering Carnbo, CofD and Drum), 28th February at Moubray Hall, Powmill (covering Powmill and Rumbling Bridge) and 27nd March at Blairingone Primary School (covering Blairingone) all at 7:30pm. Comments on the local plan are needed by 10th April. PKC are also running information sessions on Saturday 18 February (10-3.30) and Saturday 14 March (2-8pm) both at Loch Leven Community Campus.

7. Fossoway School Fete
A Roberts reports that the Fete will be on the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee weekend. It was noted that P&KC have decided not to make the Monday a Bank Holiday and hence all the schools will be open that day. Does anyone know if it’s allowed to put signs, etc., on lamp posts? Previously this had been done. Assistance from other organisations is welcome. MoP asks if there’s any news about beacons for Jubilee in this area – CC will enquire. The CC strongly recommends the community supports the Fete on Saturday 2 June.

8. Community Council Business - Meetings Attended:
Kinross-shire Community Council Network – Alistair to report next meeting.

T-in-the Park – Full minutes available, but highlights: Additional numbers to be allowed on Friday (so they are the same as Saturday and Sunday) but no more camping spaces. Hence 500-600 more vehicle movements expected. Cllr Barnacle noted that all four local councillors objected to this increase but the Licensing Authority approved it anyway. A request was made for verge cutting on back roads to be done at the time of the festival. Next meeting will be May or June.

Community Speed Watch – See matters arising above.

CPKCC – Kevin reports on discussion to create “champion” from each CC that would stand for election at the next Council election - this idea didn’t receive much support and was opposed by FDCC. There is a proposal to remove fees to join the CPKCC from next year, to encourage more attendance. This CC still believes that the CPKCC should be disbanded.

Dunning Glen – Sandy attended meeting 7th February. Kevin organised the removal by an external contractor of 1.7 tons of litter! Discussion about supplementing earth banks with big boulders and grit bins to discourage parking. Also the provision of big concrete bins might encourage more responsible litter disposal. Police will visit more often during summer months. Public should report any activities or obstruction to Police at once so they get a better view of the problem.

9. PKC Business, Councillor Barnacle’s Report: Carnbo Post Box will be replaced as soon as possible. Loop road between Drum and A81 may receive traffic calming measures - this road might be used by lorries from the proposed Glen Quey Quarry. Burnfoot Hill Wind Farm – Cllr Barnacle has called for a moratorium on any further Wind Farms in the Ochils. The Core Paths plan was approved in December – a number of paths have been removed from the plan including the one in Crook of Devon linking Institute to Church. MoP notes that some landowners have not been notified about core paths on their land – Cllr Barnacle will investigate. MoP suggests that the CC adds a link to the Core Path plan from its web site, this will be done. MoP asks if bridge at Rumbling Bridge will be replaced – Cllr Barnacle says PKC say not at present because no funding, not ideal location and alternative available. There was considerable discussion and it was agreed that because it was part of the Millennium Walk and was used by children, parents with push chairs and members of the public who were not able to negotiate the alternative route, it should be replaced. The CC would write to PKC on this matter.

10. Planning Applications

12/00025/FLL. Land to the Rear of Vicar's Bridge Road, Blairingone. Erection of a dwelling house. Comments by 8 February 2012.
A four bedroom house and garage on a small site between houses on Main Street and Helmside and Viewfield on Vicar’s Bridge Road. This is very similar to withdrawn application 11/00952/FLL.

CC Will not comment on this application.

Representative of Thompson Homes reports that the housing development in Rumbling Bridge is being scaled back (both in area and number of houses) and fuller details will be provided at the next meeting.

The person involved in the erection of two wind turbines at Bankhead Farm asked why the CC had rejected the proposal when the turbines were not on the top of the hill and screening was being provided. The Chairman explained that it had been investigated and the proposal contravened the two policies quoted. However, if this proved to be incorrect then the council would not take the objection into account. There was considerable discussion on this matter.

11. General Correspondence: All outgoing and incoming correspondence was available for viewing.

12. A.O.C.B: Rod reports that there have been three recent thefts of diesel from Commercial vehicles, using drums found on site and bypassing anti-siphon devices – all be aware.

MoP reports that there is congestion of buses, cars, taxis at Yetts of Muckhart during morning and evening rush hours – Unfortunately this is outside our area.

MoP reports that three times this month he’s found large lorries stuck at Vicar’s Bridge because the sign warning it’s unsuitable for long vehicles is too far down the road. Cllr Barnacle will look into getting it moved or supplemented. CC should also write to PKC requesting same.

50 metres either side of Vicar’s Bridge itself isn’t getting gritted or ploughed because it’s on the boundary between the two councils and the vehicles turn round on each side of the bridge. CC should mention this in the same letter as previous item.

Draft agenda next meeting:
• Welcome and apologies
• Declarations of interest
• Minutes of last meeting
• Matters arising
• Community Council Business
• Councillors’ reports
• Planning applications
• Presentation by Thomson Homes on Rumbling Bridge
• Presentation by Hugh Wallace, Glendevon Energy
• Change of date for June meeting to 12 June.
• Correspondence
• A.O.C.B

Next meeting: Tuesday 6th March 2012, 7.30pm
Fossoway Primary School
All Welcome

Councillor Michael Barnacle has arranged three public meetings to discuss how the Perth & Kinross Proposed Local Development Plan 2012 relates to the Fossoway Settlement Development Strategy.

Dates are as follows:

For further information contact:
Councillor Michael Barnacle - 01577 840 516
Bronwen Wheatley - 01577 840212

A letter is being sent by Councillor Michael Barnacle to all residents with details of these meetings and background information.

Click here to read Councillor Barnacle's letter

Click Here to Visit the Local Development Plan Section of the PKC Website

OR

Click here to go straight to the Proposed Local Development Plan page

Tayside Police

ALARMS
Personal/Shed/Multi function

Community Safety Western Tayside Police have alarms which are for sale to the public which are generally cheaper than if buying them off internet etc.

We need to try and let the public know about these so they can use them and hopefully disrupt and deter criminal activity such as thefts of power tools and garden equipment from sheds.

Slimline Personal Alarms - £2

Alert Multi Function Alarm - £6.

Excellent for motorbikes, scooters, caravans, sheds, computers and other valuable property.

Motion Detector Alarm with Telephone Function - £12

Alarm can be used for Home, Apartment, Office, Garage and Sheds.

Contact Community Safety Department on 01738 892642 or Constable McDonald for any further information required.

I've been sent a link to some information about PKC's Core Paths Network that I thought I'd share here on the website.

In a letter to Dave Stubbs of PKC, Diana Fraser at Scottish Government said:

Following conclusion of the DPEA Local Inquiry into the Perth and Kinross Core Paths Plan,
Scottish Ministers have considered and accepted the Reporter’s findings and
recommendations. Perth and Kinross Council are therefore directed to adopt the Core Paths
Plan in line with the recommendations in the Inquiry Report. A copy of the Report, detailing
the recommendations, is enclosed herewith.

The full letter and the report can be found by clicking this link.

Agenda

Public Meeting Community Council

Tuesday 6 March 2012, 7.30 pm
Fossoway Primary School
All welcome

1. Apologies

2. Declarations of Interest

3. Community Policing

4. Minutes of the last meeting

5. Progress & Matters arising:

• Blairingone War Memorial
• Community Speed watch programme
• Crook of Devon Car Park
• Olympic Flame

6. Tayside and Local development plans

7. Presentation Hugh Wallace, Hydro Scheme in the Devon

8. Presentation Thomson Homes

9. Community Council Business: Meetings attended
Change of date for June meeting to 12 June

10. P&KC Business. – Councillors Reports

11. Planning Matters

12/00252/IPL. Residential development (in principle),. Land 70 Metres South East Of Merryhills Rumbling Bridge.
12/00253/IPL. Erection of a dwellinghouse (in principle). Land 50 Metres South West Of Merryhills Rumbling Bridge
12/00233/FLL. Erection of two wind turbines. Barnhill Farm Powmill
12/00181/FLL. Erection of an agricultural building. Dailvaine Drum Kinross KY13 0PR

12. Correspondence

13. AOCB

Next meeting:
Tuesday 3 April 2012, 7.30pm
Carnbo Hall

Minutes

Here are the Minutes of the Meeting at Fossoway Primary School

Tuesday 6th March 2012

1. Attending: S Morrison, K Bothwick, S Anderson, R Paterson, T Duffy-Wigman, A Lavery, Cllr K. Baird, Cllr W. Robertson, 33 Members of the Public (MoP).
Apologies: A Cheape, Cllr. M Barnacle

2. Declarations of interest: There were no declarations of interest.

3. Community Policing: Officer initially not present, but report sent.
Recent crimes – High pressure (and dubious) roofing salesman about.
In non-urgent cases, the community policing officer for our area, PC Victoria Riches, can be contacted on: 0300 111 2222
• MoP says that “Smart Water” has been trialled in Angus, how does it work, can we get a trial here? Officer will enquire.
• MoP suggests that Bus stop in Drum could be used as location for speed camera location on Sundays, as there’s no service on Sunday.
• Questions for Joanna McCready (Seamab): Previously there have been some instances where children caused damage. Joanna pointed out that they are all under 12 and very carefully selected and managed. Obviously there are sometimes difficult children and if there were serious problems with anyone they would have to be removed. If anyone has any concerns please call Joanna (or her deputy) at once with details and they will work out who’s involved and deal with it. Q: How many children? A: 15 live in and two come daily in accordance with their planning consent.

4. Minutes of the last meeting: Were approved.

5. Progress & Matters Arising
a. War Memorial, Blairingone: S Anderson reports that the planning permission and grant application have been submitted.
b. Community Speed Watch Programme: Trudy reports that 13 volunteers will be trained, currently waiting for jackets and equipment. Due to start end March.
c. Church Car Park: Sandy reports that the Church is still progressing this through their legal people, however we can now submit the planning application since the fee will be halved if the CC submits it.
d. Olympic Flame
Trudy reports that Cleish and Blairingone are going to join in the event. More details will be provided when the event has been arranged.
e. Devon Lade: Landowner has repaired wall, decided against volunteers as might have been too dangerous. Could be further problem in the summer due to the amount of silt washed down during winter which might block the entrance. Hope to be able to dig a channel to prevent any problems. The landowner and Scouts are co-operating on this matter. The CC recorded its thanks to the landowner for the prompt repair.

6. Tayside and Local Development Plans
Cllr Barnacle has held meetings to review this, and his future meetings are recommended. PKC had also held meetings and the next one is on Wednesday 14th March at 2-8 pm in the Community Campus. If you actually agree with the plan, then please write and say so! Obviously also write in if you object.

MoP wonders why Blairingone has been ignored for development – everyone knows that there are problems due to the ground being old mining areas, but this can be fixed. The school must be at risk. What is the CC’s view? They voted in favour of the development, but the planners favoured a bigger development at Powmill. However there are some areas in Blairingone that can be developed. Willie says that the school will be kept open, and PKC do recognise that Blairingone needs to be developed – but the plan is not yet finalised and there’s still time to comment on it. The current plan doesn’t provide enough developable land to make it worthwhile. The CC will support what the people want.

Reminder that end date for comments is 10th April.

7. Hydro Scheme in the Devon – Presentation by Hugh Wallace
In June, applied for grant, which was received in August and has allowed some feasibility studies to be done. SEPA have been consulted and are not against the scheme in principal. Various routes across Briglands estate are being examined and priced. Hopefully a decision will be made by April or May if the scheme is cost-effective. Cost about £2.5M – Government still supporting this sort of scheme. Environmental studies also taking place. Planning submission will be made over summer having tied down agreements with landowners. Assuming planning is granted then a separate company will be created to operate the scheme and community involvement will be welcomed then. Q: Has Woodlands Trust been kept up to date? This development could impact farm subsidies. A: Yes they have and every effort would be made to ensure nobody was disadvantaged. Q: Will extraction of water cause problems for fishing etc.? A: During low water periods the scheme won’t operate for some of the time – SEPA will define the rules for this. Q: How much power will it generate? A: 700kW.

8. Rumbling Bridge Housing Development – Presentation by Thomson Homes
Thompson Homes own the site, previously the Chalet Park. Currently has permission for 15 chalets over the whole site. Thomson Homes initially proposed 26 environmentally friendly homes (including six for the elderly) and a pre-school nursery. Community had concerns about traffic impact, so plan revised to exclude rear section, which is outside the village envelope, reducing the total number of homes to thirteen. Thomson Homes seek the support of the CC for this proposal which will be submitted shortly. If initial stage is successful, then it may be that a further development may be proposed in the future, although this would currently be outwith the local plan. Q: has a feasibility study been done for the nursery? A: Yes, there are other areas that will use this too. Q: Is this too remote for elderly people? A: They don’t think so – there is an old people ‘s home opposite, but this is aimed at people who are downsizing, who would like houses all on one level, etc. Q: There’s no bus service there at the moment? A: No, but we’re about to install a bus halt, which could be made readily accessible from the site. Q: Why aren’t you developing the whole site now? A: Unanticipated concerns from local community, and better to submit an application that has a reasonable chance of success. Q: Are you going to ask for an extension to the village envelope during the current local plan review? A: Thank you for the suggestion! Q: Will you make money from this reduced development? A: In the current climate any development is better than none. Q: What will happen to the existing consent for chalets – will it fall with this application? A: Understanding is that it will continue – not yet discussed with the planners.

9. Community Council Business

Change of date for June meeting to 12th June to avoid Jubilee Public Holiday.

Meetings Attended: Kinross Community Council Network – Alastair reports on the creation of this group to share ideas across Kinross-shire. It will meet every six months, but needs to get a proper structure in place before it can become effective.

10. PKC Business
Councillor Baird’s Report: The local plan is the most important thing at the moment – people must come to meetings and ask questions, and make comments as it will be in place for five years.

Councillor Robertson’s Report: Lochleven path to be completed this year. U222 Drum to A91 used by dogs, horses and bikes but also used by fast traffic – Clacks have concept of “green Roads” which exclude heavy traffic in preference to slower users. Willie has written to PKC to propose this idea. This road could also end up being used by Quarry lorries. MoP reports that the implementation in Clacks is not very effective, but Willie intends to push ahead with the plan and see if it works better in P&K.

11. Planning Applications

12/00252/IPL. Residential development (in principle),. Land 70 Metres South East Of Merryhills Rumbling Bridge
12/00253/IPL. Erection of a dwellinghouse (in principle). Land 50 Metres South West Of Merryhills Rumbling Bridge.
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

12/00233/FLL. Erection of two wind turbines. Barnhill Farm Powmill.
Recommendation. Refusal, as contrary Policy 2a and 17b of the Kinross Area Local Plan, exceeding the capacity of the surrounding landscape to absorb or screen the development and the absence of a PKC strategy on small scale turbine development in the countryside.

12/00181/FLL. Erection of an agricultural building. Dailvaine Drum Kinross KY13 0PR
Recommendation. No Community Council comment.

Decisions by PKC.

11/02053/FLL . Two turbines, Bankhead Farm. CC recommended refusal. Approved.
11/01502/FLL. House at The Poplars, Drum. CC recommended rejection. Refused.
11/01096/FLL. Sheds at Cairnfold Bungalow, Blairingone. CC recommended refusal..
Refused.

12. General Correspondence: All outgoing and incoming correspondence was available for viewing.

13. Traveller’s Site at Crook Moss: The land is owned by one of the new residents, which makes this situation unusual, he will be making a retrospective application by March 12th for five caravans with facilities. Normal practice with retrospective applications is to determine them rather than take enforcement action. Environmental Health and Planners inspected site on Monday 4th. In the event of refusal then further review will take place. Willie explains that this process is more efficient than taking legal action. Q: Are these the same people who were at Greenacres? A: Willie says we don’t know. MoP notes that these people have come from somewhere in Fife, so not Greenacres. MoP notes that the land is currently contaminated – Alastair answers that this will be considered as part of the application. Note that there are no provisions in the new plan for traveller sites. MoP observes that the site is a “gateway” site into the village and hence is a very bad choice. CC answer that this will be considered during the application and we will all be able to comment then. MoP asks how often retrospective applications made? Willie says quite often, but as long as they are within policy then they get passed, this site has lots of issues to be considered. MoP observes that the sewage system in this area is at capacity. Policy 35 of the current plan explicitly forbids static caravans – objectors should mention this. CC and Willie both stress that anyone seeing anything illegal should report it to their councillor and PKC at once, and any unacceptable behaviour should be reported to the Community Police Officer. An extraordinary meeting of this CC may be called to discuss the application once it is submitted. The CC thanked Councillor Robertson for his prompt action in mobilising the Council and also recorded their appreciation for the Council’s prompt response.

14. A.O.C.B: Fire in Gartwhinzean hotel was not able to be fought effectively due to lack of water pressure. Kathleen will look into why there wasn’t enough pressure.

Draft agenda next meeting:
• Welcome and apologies
• Declarations of interest
• Minutes of last meeting
• Matters arising
• Community Council Business
• Councillors’ reports
• Planning applications
• Correspondence
• A.O.C.B

Next meeting: Tuesday 3rd April 2012, 7.30pm
Carnbo Hall
All Welcome