Minutes for Bonhill & Dalmonach Community Council meeting
11th January 2021
Online - Google Meet
Welcome to all Community Council members and visitors.
Attendance: Jack Fordy (JF) Chair, Gloria Wilson (GW), Fiona McGeachin (FM), Pauline Larking (PL), Fiona Jenkins (FJ), Cllr Ian Dickson, Alan McMullan (AM), Doug McGeachin (DM), Patricia McManus (PM), Jim O’Donnell (JO’D)
Apologies: Nancy Malcolm
Community Police officers appeared to be restricted by Covid duties, so therefore there is no report this month.
Noticeboards
JF had sourced a supplier of these and got a price but seems far too expensive (£300-500). FM suggested using a local joiner which was deemed to be a good idea. AM gave information about a company he knows of (Griffin Signs) so enquiries will be made. PL suggested asking if anyone would be able to make some noticeboards on the CC Facebook page so this will also be done.
Dalmonach Steps Project
AM is the Environmental Regeneration Manager for West Dunbartonshire Trust. He gave a brief report on this project and showed five different designs for the proposed improvements. He asked that these are studied and feedback is given as to the preferred option. It was decided that the project would be shown on the CC Facebook page, asking the general public for their feedback. JF suggested another option which he had seen locally and will send pictures of this.
Road from Bonhill to Aggreko
Issues with the narrow pavement along the road were discussed and it was agreed that this route is neither safe nor appealing for pedestrians or cyclists. JF relayed that West Dunbartonshire have an improvement plan which Cllr Dickson confirmed but as it stands, the plans are for 2023. Several suggestions were given, regarding ways in which a safer route could be made. Cllr Dickson will speak to relevant people in WDC and report back.
Gritting Paths
Public pathway from Glebe Gardens leading to Bonhill Bridge is incredibly icy whenever there is cold weather, making it almost impassable. This is a well-used route and locals have reported being anxious of falling. JF had attempted to contact WDC about this to no avail. FJ reported that the path had actually been gritted once recently but had not been since. It was noted there is a gritting route on WDC website.
Fly-tipping and Littering
GW has emailed WDC regarding the various fly tipping in the area but hasn’t had any reply. Lots of fly-tipping behind Dillichip Terrace and in various areas of Bonhill there is a lot of litter visible due to the time of year and the undergrowth having died back. Suggestions from JO’D about raising awareness regarding littering, putting it on the CC Facebook page, with a view to organising a group litter pick once restrictions are lifted.
Planning on Dillichip Loan
FJ had been approached by John Burleigh who stated he plans to build 17 properties down Dillichip Loan. Cllr Dickson was asked if planning had been applied for this and he stated that no further planning had been. Furthermore, at the last meeting with Mr Burleigh, the Planning Committee had questioned whether there were plans for any sort of large-scale development and had been assured by Mr Burleigh that it was only one property he was planning.
Dalmonach Community Centre
Cllr Dickson was asked for an update and he relayed that it had not been discussed since early December when it was said that the handover would be in January with a view to occupying it in March 2021. No further updates.
Treasurer’s Report
Balance in bank - £11027.15
Incoming - £2250 donated by “Paths For All”
Outgoings - £30 donated to “Bonhill Gnomes”
Date of Next Meeting
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 8th February at 7pm. This will be held via Google Meet.
Bonhill and Dalmonach Community Council
Monthly Meeting
8th Feb 2021
7.00pm – 9.00pm
Online - Google Meet
1. Welcome
2. Sederunt /Apologies
3. Community Police Report
4. Minutes and Matters Arising
5. Treasurer’s Report
6. Dalmonach Steps
Amended Layouts
7. Allotments
8. Dilichip Loan Planning Issues
9. Litter Pics and Cleansing
10. Paths and Roads around Strathleven
11. AOB
12. Date of Next Meeting 8th March 21
Minutes for Bonhill & Dalmonach Community Council meeting
8th February 2021
Online - Google Meet
Welcome to all Community Council members and visitors.
Attendance: Jack Fordy (JF) Chair, Gloria Wilson (GW), Fiona McGeachin (FM),
Fiona Jenkins (FJ), Cllr Ian Dickson, Cllr Jim Bollan, Patricia McManus (PM), Jim
O’Donnell (JO’D).
Apologies: Agnes Pollock, Community Police
Unable to attend meeting due to other duties, however, PC Gemma Doran reported that she had been investigating the stolen defibrillator from Ladyton shops. Currently looking at all the CCTV footage.
Road from Bonhill to Aggreko
Cllr Dickson had a meeting regarding Lady’s Gate. General consensus was there were complications around ownership and different heights etc. A813 plans are underway but it will still be 2023 before renovations are completed. Plans are still to cut into hill on other side due to the listed status of the wall. Possible still keep looking into it regarding Lady’s Gate - some residents were spoken to about this and had no objections.
JO’D contacted the council regarding scraping back leaves off the pavement to give more space but had no reply. Cllr Dickson said he will look into this. PM questioned the old plans to canalise the river from Dumbarton to Alexandria. Cllr Bollan reported that this is still in the plans (30 year plan) but when it will be acted on is unsure. JF reported that there is actually a (very muddy) path from Hawthorn Place (behind Dillichip Terrace) taking you to Helen Way, with a footbridge over Red Burn. JF now has plans of the area and can see the boundaries and land ownership in these.
Dalmonach Steps Project
Alan McMullan sent amended layouts which JF will email on for everyone to peruse. The plans include a channelled path running along the side of the steps and it would work to have six sets of three small steps. Final costings are still to come through. There was a post about the project put onto Facebook, inviting responses from the public, which have all been positive.
Dillichip Loan Planning
JF contacted Ross Lee from Planning who reported that they had been shown a plan with 22 houses then another plan showing one house which was situated over the “blast site”. The planning permission in principle which Mr Burleigh was granted is time limited so there is not much time left for him in which to act. While talking to Ross, JF organised a meeting regarding the site which used to belong to Bonhill Primary School. JF brought up the question of using the land for allotments and was told that this could be allowed, the site possibly being available to the Community Council for an asset transfer. There would need to be a topographical report carried out for ground quality but no problems are envisaged. GW suggested having a look at the allotments at Alexandria church to get an idea of what could be done. It was agreed there would need to be a separate group assembled for this project due to its scale.
Local litter pick
Further to last month’s discussion regarding litter picks, Cllr Dickson said he could acquire hoops and sticks to have on a more permanent basis.
Balance in bank - £11027.15
Incoming - £2250 donated by “Paths For All”
Outgoings - £30 donated to “Bonhill Gnomes”
Dalmonach Community Centre - Update for this is that the handover is expected to take place in March with the nursery expected to be occupied in April. The community education section of the centre will not be occupied presently due to Covid restrictions.
Bonhill Gnomes - GW asked about the Christmas decorations which had been erected along the river at Dillichip - since the season is over, she wondered when they were going to be taken down. JF had contacted Nicola Norrie about this and she had said she would take them down asap, although nothing has been done since.
Noticeboards - JF received a quote for £90 for two A2 noticeboards with lockable frames and installation which was thought to be reasonable. JF wondered about installing a board at the new community centre and asked the local councillors who he would contact regarding this. Cllr Bollan replied that Michelle Lynn is the Asset Manager and would be the point of contact. Still awaiting a quote from the other company in Erskine (Braveheart).
Gritting - Glebe Gardens is still not being gritted and residents have complained. During discussion, it was thought that this is because there is a gritting bin at the top of that road so it wouldn’t be eligible.
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 8th March at 7pm. This will be held via Google Meet. (This was postponed and will now be held Monday 11th April via Google Meet).
Bonhill and Dalmonach Community Council
Monthly Meeting
12th April 2021, 7. 00pm – 9.00pm
Online - Google Meet
Meeting with Roads Dept
I was able to have a good but rather informal meeting with Derek Barr.
Dalmonach Steps
We now have the final proposals.
Allotments
See agenda Item below.
Alexandria Town Centre
Attended April ATCF meeting.
Litter Pics and Cleansing
Andy Devine has supplied us with 6 off litter picks, 4 off hoops, a pack of quality gloves and a good supply of bags, together with some hi-vis vests which he advises us to wear, these identify us as Volunteers. All we need to do now is set some dates and areas for operations.
Bonhill Leisure Centre
Is it open and available to hire?
Paths Around Strathleven
Extra funding and state of progress
March
April
Begun to complete the Expression of Interest but we came up against a minor hiccup in that the application requires us to be either;
1. A company with not fewer than 20 members.
2. A Scottish charitable incorporated organisation with not fewer than 20 members.
3. A community benefit society.We don’t quite fit any of the categories except the last one, so I’ve been discussing this with Estates.
JF “Thanks, aye the wording is a wee bit unclear, It says a Company with 20 members, an SCIO with 20 members or a Community Benefit Society, I really thought we would qualify as the latter. However our Constitution says 15 members, set according to a formula based on our population numbers within the ward, It would not be possible to change that, although we are allowed to co-opt. Anyway, we can discuss it when David gets back”,
ML” If you want to proceed with Community Asset Transfer then you do need to change constitution for 20 members as this is within the Act but can discuss further when you return.”
(I think she means when her colleague David returns, I’ve not been anywhere).
Another decision concerns whether we wish to go for ownership or a long-term lease. My own feeling is that a lease of 25 years would be appropriate.
ML “Depending on where you are a lease arrangement might be more appropriate and not formally via CAT but happy to discuss”.
WDC seem to be on holiday just now, so we await further discussions, however we do need to form a separate group to manage this.
a) Anti-Social Behaviour JoD and PM
b) Community Empowerment Act
From time to time the Council is required to review the support and administrative arrangements for Community Councils, known as the Scheme for Establishment.
This is happening now.
c) Alexandria Town Centre Markets
Monday 10th May 21.
1. Welcome to all Community Council members and visitors.
Attendance: Jack Fordy (JF) Chair, Fiona McGeachin (FM), Nancy Malcolm (NM), Agnes Pollock from the Communities Team (AP), Cllr Ian Dickson, Pat McManus (PM), Gloria Hendry (GH), Pauline Larking(PL), Fiona Jenkins (FJ)
Cllr Bollan
We no longer have the Community Police therefore will only have representation attending if we have requested. The Police did provide us with crime reports for the last couple of months and these were briefly discussed.
a) Dalmonach Steps Project - JF had a meeting with Derek Barr. During this meeting it was asked if the roads dept would have any objections to the Dalmonach Steps with regards to Option 6. This was answered that they would have no objection and also hinted at the possibility of some extra funding. The final drafts had been sent out with several options. Option 6 appears to be the most viable and we are awaiting details of funding.
b) A813 - During the aforementioned meeting, Derek also confirmed that the A813 is in urgent need of upgrading but the proposal is for some time in the future as previously discussed.
c) Alexandria Town Forum - JF has been trying to 'hijack' this forum and improve communication links. The cobbles at "The Laughing Fox" are finally being addressed. JF also looked at Bank Street with a view to pedestrianising the street to avoid the 'bottleneck' problem. There are several proposals with the objective being making the town a greener and more pleasant place to be. Traffic calming, making the fountain area more of a plaza, allowing people to circulate more freely. Issues with this would be the buses going through the town. A trial version of this is going to be rolled out.
d) Dalmonach Community Centre - The handover has been completed and the nursery children will be moving in imminently. NM enquired about the extra traffic around the centre, saying the car park was full and the police had actually been out to deal with it. Cllr Dickson suggested there is an area of grass which could have a road built through it to be used a drop-off point - this will be suggested at a later date.
e) Litter-picks - Andy Devine had provided the CC with a variety of litter picking materials. JF and Cllr Dickson had discussed setting up a joint litter pick with Beechwood Tenants & Residents group. JF was going to ask for an extra bin at the top of the Dalmonach Steps. A litter pick was organised amongst CC members for Saturday 17th April.
f) Allotments - JF had begun to fill in an "expression of interest" form but was initially informed that there needs to be 20 members for this. This is to be discussed further. The decision needed to be made as to whether we want land ownership or a long term lease. It was decided a long term lease would be preferable. Cllr Dickson advised on this. AP advised that before we take on a lease, get Greenspace to do a soil survey first. JF suggested we create a sub-committee for this project and this was agreed. A sub-committee was organised - JF, GH, FJ, Cllr Dickson.
Balance in bank - £11027.15
Incoming - £750 (in April) from "Paths for All"
Outgoings - £0
Anti-social behaviour - possible reasons for the rise in local anti-social behaviour was discussed, with the subject of too many off-licences coming up. Cllr Dickson explained how the licencing works and it transpires that there is an over-provision policy so we will slowly see a reduction of corner shops being licenced. AP suggested contacting Gillian at "Y-sort it" to see if there are any events or activities planned for the area. JF will follow this up via email.
Community Empowerment Act - West Dunbartonshire Council are trying to improve participation in the communities in various groups, including the Community Councils. Part of that means they are looking again at our "Scheme of Establishment" which is the document that sets out our areas of responsibility and authority and needs reviewed every so often. JF attended a briefing meeting about this. At this they discussed the areas of Community Councils which threw up a few issues, such as our Community Council being underrepresented by residents in New Bonhill and it would perhaps make more sense to have two separate Community Councils. FM suggested that there is a lack of community feeling in New Bonhill and this could be caused by the lack of use of the Community centre, which is because it is too expensive since it changed hands. AP suggested that using Zoom for the meetings might attract more people who wouldn't otherwise be able to attend meetings, due to childcare etc.
Alexandria Town Centre Markets - This is a proposal by the Vale of Leven Trust who are trying to raise footfall in the area. JF wondered if this would take away from the existing shops but overall thought it was a good idea. He asked all other members and it was broadly thought to be a positive action.
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 10 May at 7pm. This will be held via Zoom.
1. Welcome
2. Sederunt /Apologies
3. Community Police Report
Nothing rec.d this Month
4. Minutes and Matters Arising
a) Dalmonach Steps
Awaiting the results of our funding applications.
b) Allotments
See item
We have to complete the application form set date for our Sub-Committee Meeting
c) Alexandria Town Centre
Works have begun.
d) Litter Pics and Cleansing
Next litter-pick Sat 15th May?? Venue ??
e) Bonhill Leisure Centre
Visit and possibly book?
Treasurer's Report
April
Incoming £0
Outgoing £0
Balance £11,027
April
Incoming £0
Outgoing £0
Balance £11,777.15
5. Allotments
As suggested by Cllr Dickson, I approached Mr Bain of Greenspace and he asked if we should have a site visit. I of course said yes, but I have not heard back from Mr Bain.
I did complete and submit our Expression of Interest to estates, and they have sent our ap-plication form for the property.
I have indicated that we will be most interested in a long lease agreement.
We will now need to recruit another 16 members for our Allotment sub-group.
6. Gardening Competition
FJ will give a brief summary of her ideas for this
7. AOB
8. Date of Next Meeting
Monday 14th June 2021 Suggest we book the new Bonhill Leisure Centre for our first Face to Face Meeting
9. Date of AGM
Monday 14 June 21
Attending: Jack Fordy – Chairperson (JF), Cllr Jim Bollan, Cllr Dickson, Fiona Jenkins (FJ), Nancy Malcolm
(NM), Pat McManus (PM), Jim O’Donnell (JO’D), Gloria Hendry (GH), Agnes Pollock (AP),
Margaret Stewart, Fiona McGeachin
Minutes read and approved by: NM and GH.
No further correspondence since last month.
Alexandria Town Centre Forum – Cllr Dickson gave an update. At the recent Town Forum meeting the
prioritization of the projects that were in there were discussed. One of the key points when he spoke
to local businesses was not to undertake any road or pavement works in the run up to Christmas as
this would impede footfall in the shops. There was some discussion on linking up the cycle path to
Alexandria. JF enquired about ACAN’s plan appearing to be slightly different from the Town Forum’s
plan. Cllr Dickson replied that it would hopefully all link up. There was a short discussion about cycle
path connections, specifically the option to link a path from Bonhill Bridge into the town along with
the option to link it from India Street into the town centre. There was a brief statement from the West
Coast Studios regarding the St. Andrew’s church project but there has not been much progress made
due to the extensive works required etc. and they may be looking into other venues. There were also
reports regarding the Mitchell Way marketplace ambitions. The demolitions are due to commence at
the start of February 2022.
The enquiry about local road safety by Samantha Henderson has been pursued by JF.
He contacted the police regarding this and was eventually given a reply stating that local officers would
be patrolling the areas referred to and Traffic Officers had been made aware of being vigilant about
any modified vehicles. JF also emailed SPT regarding the long buses being used in the area as
previously discussed. The reply given was that the service is actually run unsubsidized so it would be
unlikely that there would be any change made there.
JF has heard nothing regarding – furthermore, neither Councillors have had any
correspondence regarding this issue.
Similarly, nothing has been heard regarding these plans.
Bonhill and Dalmonach Community Council
Dalmonach Steps – JF reported that we are awaiting the remainder of the funding to get underway
before any progress can be made.
The previous points had been made to Michelle Lynn along with
tarmacking and putting in a rubble drain at the front door, but there has been no feedback since.
Work has started on the flowerbeds at the new community centre, however, there was some disagreement over what was to be planted, with
Maureen (the caretaker) not wanting shrubs as she felt they would not be maintained. We (the CC)
have three willing volunteers for maintaining any shrubs etc. so this will be relayed.
Michelle Lynn has not yet responded regarding the locking of the gates
and the paving for the fire escape being redone.
Review of Scheme of Establishment – The scheme of establishment review is due to be sent
for ramification on the 16th of December’21. JF reported a brief explanation of what it would
entail. JF suggested we have a complaints procedure in place and this was agreed in principle.
Cardross Cycle Path – JF attended a Cardross Community Council meeting regarding this. The outcome
was that the work won’t be done until around 2028. A brief discussion then ensued regarding the new
proposal from WDC to have a through route from Dumbarton to Jamestown.
A82 Upgrade from Tarbet – Iverarnan – JF explored these plans and questioned the thinking behind
them. There was a meeting held earlier today (10th December 2021) and, other than a few negative
responses, it appeared to go fairly well.
NM gave a brief report – she has now received the pin number for the account. JF had suggested we
spend a little for a small Christmas gift to Maureen at the community centre and this had been agreed.
Outgoings - £12.60 hall rent
Balance - £10,709.18
Defibrillator – It was agreed that we just use our funds to get a new one whilst waiting any money to
come back from the perpetrator. A brief discussion was had about a new location for the new
defibrillator.
* GH asked about the possibility of erecting road signs between Strathleven estate and Bonhill to warn
of deer on the road. JF suggested we raise this with WDC Roads department. Cllr Bollan agreed to
request this.
* Muirhead’s Farm planning application to have a polytunnel conversion into a shed. There was a
discussion regarding this
* JO’D asked about progress of the proposed A813 upgrade. Cllr Dickson reported the pavement will
be widened by end of 2022. Furthermore, JO’D reported of the stretch having been swept and shared
that if people use MyGovScot on WDC website, things appear to get done.
* Cllr Bollan briefed us on the pandemic with regards to schools in the area.
Monday 10 January 2022 – Zoom meeting (this was
later postponed to 17
January 2022).
Welcome
1. Police Report
2. Minutes and Matters Arising
3. Chair and Secretary’s Report
4. Treasurer’s Report
May
5. Allotments
6. Dalmonach Steps
7. Bonhill Leisure Centre
8. Gardening Competition
9. AOB
10. Date of Next Meeting
Jack Fordy, Fiona McGeachin, Pauline Larking, Fiona Jenkins, Gloria Hendry, Helen Leslie, Pat
McManus, Jane Harvie.
Councillors: Jim Bollan, Ian Dickson, Caroline McAlister, John Miller.
1. Minutes of the 2020 Annual General Meeting
2. Adoption of Minutes
3. Chairperson’s (and Acting Secretary) Annual Report.
4. Treasurer’s Report – Annual Accounts
5. Adoption of Accounts
6. Election of New Community Councillors
No new Community Councillors have applied for election. Susan Campbell has resigned as has John
Polding, we have not heard from Brian Hatfield for more than 6 months and so assume that he has
resigned.
7. Office Bearer Nominations.
Jack Fordy is still available as Chair and is prepared to act as Secretary.
Vice Chair remains open
Nancy Malcolm has agreed to resume her duties as Treasurer as Pauline is unable to carry on.
Chair ………………………………………… Vice-Chair…………………………………
Secretary ………………………………………… Treasurer …………………………………
8. Day, Time and Venue of Monthly Meetings
9. Date of 2022 AGM
10. Start of Monthly Business Meeting
Attending – Jack Fordy – Chairperson (JF), Gloria Hendry (GH), Nancy Malcolm (NM), Pat McManus
(PM), Fiona McGeachin (FM), Cllr Ian Dickson, Cllr Jim Bollan, Fiona Jenkins (FJ), Caroline McAllister –
Communities Team (CM)
No report available this month
Minutes Proposer – PM
Seconder – GH
Alexandria Town Centre - JF had sent a review which included a questionnaire about the proposed
improvements to the town centre. FM reported that the craft shop in Mitchell Way has the
proposals all laid out in the window for all to see. There was some discussion regarding the
temporary traffic system by the fountain and the cycling routes.
Group Litter pick – Due to the success of last month’s litter pick, another was suggested with a
proposed date of Saturday 26th June. There was some discussion about the area to work on and it
was agreed that a section of Ladyton would be suitable.
Thanks to Cllr Dickson for organising a meeting with Iain Bain. IB had met with
someone from Environmental Health who said that due to the intensity of contamination of the
ground, she did not think it would be suitable for allotments. IB pressed this issue and said that
unless there was good reason then he would push for the allotments to go ahead as the proposal is
for raised beds so the ground contamination should not be an issue. There was some discussion
around this, with Dalmuir West Allotments being seen as a good framework.
Dalmonach Steps – Derek Barr, Iain Bain and Alan McMullen are all given thanks for meeting
recently to discuss how to move forward with this issue. Some funding has unfortunately been
withdrawn due to Covid. Various ideas were discussed on how to proceed. JF has written to
SUSTRANS to find out if they would be interested in helping with funding on this project.
Dalmonach Leisure Centre – Thanks are given to Cllr Dickson for organizing a visit to the new centre.
There is an issue with the centre not being ready for anyone to use it yet – it was reported this is
because there is no access to purchasing furniture yet due to Covid. JF reported that NM had been
approached by a member of staff reporting there was to be no Zumba classes, no Bingo etc. Cllr
Bollan confirmed that no classes were able to book any groups yet as it wasn’t ready.
Gardening Competition – A meeting has been arranged with Kevin Mason from the Leamy
Foundation with regards to this.
Review of Scheme of Establishment – This must be reviewed every 5 years with regards to
boundaries etc. JF, (in talks with other Community Councils and Nick Wright of the Scottish
Community Development Centre), said we have a very large area for our Community Council and
suggested that Old Bonhill and New Bonhill separated. However due to Covid it was decided that
things should not be changed presently and perhaps by the next review this should become an issue.
* Sean Lavery - a local DJ – is looking to host a disco in the new Dalmonach Centre or
Ladyton Community Centre and thoughts about this were invited.
* Dr.Bike has set up 2 meetings which at the moment have to be prebooked due to Covid. These
dates were given – Sat 19th June and Sat 17th July. Cllr Dickson asked about getting a digital flier for
these and JF said they would be completed presently.
* FM enquired about car parking – lots of cars parking on the hill making it difficult to see when you
were driving down. She asked if there was a possibility of double yellow lines getting put there but
Cllr Bollan explained the difficulty in getting these put down.
* PM had a query about the overgrown hedge at Strathleven roundabout, making it difficult to see
traffic coming. JF said he would look into it with Derek Barr. She also said about potholes having
been mended which is a positive.
Monday 13 September in the Dalmonach Leisure Centre.
Welcome
Sederunt /Apologies
1. Minutes and Matters Arising
2. Chair and Secretary’s Report
3. Treasurer’s Report
May
4. Community Centre Garden
5. AOB
6. Date of Next Meeting
AGENDA
Attending: Jack Fordy – Chairperson (JF), Gloria Hendry (GH), Cllr Jim Bollan, Fiona Jenkins (FJ), Agnes
Pollock – Communities Team (CT), Pauline Larking (PL), Margaret Smith (MS), Jane Harvey (JH) Apologies: Nancy Malcolm, Fiona McGeachin, Cllr Dickson, Caroline McAllister
1. Minutes Read and approved by GH and Cllr Bollan
2. Police Report The attached report arrived just after the meeting
a) Alexandria Town Centre Forum – JF was unable to attend the meeting in August but received a brief resume. There had been discussion at the meeting about the roads and cycle paths linking up and this was to be referred to the Roads Department and the Regeneration Group so this will be carried forward.
b) Group Litter pick – The litter picks have been quite successful so there was a discussion about doing another one. Unfortunately, a suitable date wasn’t found for this month so we will carry this forward.
c) Allotments – There has been no further communication from Greenspace and Iain Bain has been off on leave so we hope to hear of some progress soon. There was some
discussion about allotments in Melford Avenue in South Drumry which has raised beds and is a good example of what can be done.
d) Dalmonach Steps – JF had meeting with from ERZ Studios and they had produced a few different designs. These still need to be modified and there was a discussion about the requirements which were noted. There was some good news where the Environment Trust have agreed to put £60,000 towards this project if West Dunbartonshire Council will match it. There was also good news of possible funding coming from both Derek Barr and Iain Bain.
e) Dr.Bike – The two sessions were quite successful. Due to C19 a pre-booking system was in place, and although and we could handle a total of 25 bikes per session, we had several ‘no shows’, but ended with 24 bikes repaired in the first session and 20 in the second, including some casual callers that we were able to accommodate. As it was during a holiday period, the second session was possibly quieter than it might have been. It was possible that fewer people were aware of it, although it was advertised.
f) There is a small amount of money left from the Community Funding Grant so there was discussion on how this could be spent.
Bonhill and Dalmonach Community Council
g) Advertising – There was a discussion on advertising the Community Council – whether we should be contacting the Community Advertiser etc. It was suggested we could start a newsletter. JF agreed on principle but did remark that there is always the risk that all the work is left to one or two people and it then becomes a big undertaking. It was left as “something to consider”.
h) Community Centre Garden – West Dunbartonshire Environment Trust have volunteered their services to clear the Flower beds outside the Centre. The rubble and weed-infested soil will be replaced and some planting undertaken.
i) The new hall still has an issue with an unsurfaced path outside a fire escape issue. This has also been raised with Cllr Bollan by the caretaker, he has agreed to look into it.
The Treasurer had to apologise she has had to self-isolate so cannot be here. We hope all is well. So far not yet completed Internet banking accreditation, but the Chair is able to access the services so that any outstanding bills are paid on time.
September
a) MS was asking if the gates of the nursery/community centre will be locked at night. Cllr Bollan replied that he would look into it.
b) GH commented on the amount of fly-tipping in the area and asked who is responsible for removing debris. There was a discussion about the different problems (graffiti etc) and information was given with relevant contacts.
c) JH started a discussion about the recent spate of fires in the area and also had concerns about fly-tipping. This led on to a discussion about the plan the CC had in the past about getting a skip in the area to help to reduce some of the fly-tipping.
d) FJ suggested leading a “Pumpkin Walk” down Dillichip again and will run with this idea. There was also a short discussion about the fires again in the area.
Community Council Report
Name of Community Council: Bonhill and Dalmonach
Date of Report:- 15/09/2021
Submitting officer:- PC Dale Logsdon
Crimes/Offences that have occurred in community area since last meeting
Police Report covering the period 11/08/21 – 14/09/21
inclusive.
The Crimes can be summarised as follows;
Mobbing and Rioting
0
Wilful fire-raising
0
Common Assault
9 - (4 Detected)
Theft/Att Housebreaking – Domestic
0
Theft (Unclassified)
1 ( 1Enquiries ongoing)
Possess Drugs
1 (Detected)
Breach of the Peace/Disorder
6 (2 Detected)
Vandalism
1 (Enquiries ongoing)
Vehicle/traffic Crime
7 (4 Detected)
Fraud
1 (Enquiries ongoing)
Breach of Bail
1 (1 Detected)
Other
5 (5 enquiries ongoing)
The above excludes fixed penalty notices issued in
respect of anti-social behaviour, non-endorsable and
endorsable offences (Road Traffic).
I would urge the community to continue to use Crimestoppers if wishing to leave anonymous information regarding incidents which are happening within the community. The telephone phone number is 0800 555 111 and is operated 24hrs a day.
It should be noted that due to a recent restructure within Argyll & West Dunbartonshire Division we no longer have a dedicated Community Policing Officer for your area. Information contained on this form has been gathered by an officer from the Community Engagement Team. Any issues raised at the meeting will be disseminated to either Local Policing or Problem Solving Team officers. If you wish to contact us direct with any specific complaints or concerns, please contact the following based at Dumbarton Police Office;
Community Engagement Team Sergeant – Brian Simpson
Tel: 101
Crimes/Offences that have occurred in community area since last meeting
Police Report covering the period 11/08/21 –
14/09/21 inclusive.
The Crimes can be summarised as follows;
Mobbing and Rioting
0
Wilful fire-raising
0
Common Assault
9 - (4 Detected)
Theft/Att Housebreaking – Domestic
0
Theft (Unclassified)
1 ( 1Enquiries ongoing)
Possess Drugs
1 (Detected)
Breach of the Peace/Disorder
6 (2 Detected)
Vandalism
1 (Enquiries ongoing)
Vehicle/traffic Crime
7 (4 Detected)
Fraud
1 (Enquiries ongoing)
Breach of Bail
1 (1 Detected)
OFFICIAL
Other
5 (5 enquiries ongoing)
The above excludes fixed penalty notices issued in
respect of anti-social behaviour, non-endorsable and
endorsable offences (Road Traffic).
Updates on previous
actions
Incidents of note or
crime trends
Forthcoming events /
Initiatives
This month – Issues
raised at the meeting
I would urge the community to continue to use Crimestoppers if wishing to leave
anonymous information regarding incidents which are happening within the
community. The telephone phone number is 0800 555 111 and is operated 24hrs a
day.
It should be noted that due to a recent restructure within Argyll & West
Dunbartonshire Division we no longer have a dedicated Community Policing Officer
for your area. Information contained on this form has been gathered by an officer
OFFICIAL
from the Community Engagement Team. Any issues raised at the meeting will be
disseminated to either Local Policing or Problem Solving Team officers.
If you wish to contact us direct with any specific complaints or concerns, please
contact the following based at Dumbarton Police Office;
Community Engagement Team Sergeant – Brian Simpson
Tel: 101
Welcome
Cllr McAllister, Gloria Wilson, Agnes Pollock
1. Minutes and Matters Arising
2. Police Report
3. Proposal and Acceptance of Minutes
4. Chair and Secretary’s Report
5. Treasurer’s Report
September
6. AOB
7. Date of Next Meeting 11 November; Dalmonach Leisure Centre
Jack Fordy – Chairperson (JF), Cllr Jim Bollan, Fiona Jenkins (FJ), Pauline Larking (PL), Margaret Smith (MS), Nancy Malcolm (NM), Helen Leslie, Pat McManus (PM), Jim
O’Donnell (JO’D), Cllr John Millar
Gloria Hendry, Agnes Pollock, Fiona McGeachin, Cllr McAllister
Last month’s arrived two days after the September meeting and the crime figures appear low.
There was discussion regarding National “Kindness Day” on 13th November. An idea for hosting a coffee morning in the new Community Centre had been suggested. MS
and NM said that they thought we should try to get such an event organised, and so together with JF would look into it.
Welcome
1. Minutes and Matters Arising
Proposal and Acceptance of Minutes
2. Chair and Secretary’s Report
3. Treasurer’s Report
Nancy is presently indisposed
October
4. Road Safety
5. Dalmonach Steps Final Proposals
6. Boundary Issues
7. AOB
8. Date of Next Meeting 13th December; OR 10th January in Dalmonach Leisure Centre
Jack Fordy – Chairperson (JF), Cllr Jim Bollan, Cllr Dickson, Cllr Millar, Fiona Jenkins (FJ), Pauline Larking (PL), Margaret Smith (MS), Nancy Malcolm (NM), Helen Leslie (HL).
None
Minutes read and approved by: PL and NM.
No further correspondence since last month.
Alexandria Town Centre Forum – Cllr Dickson gave an update. Attendance has dwindled slightly since moving meetings to Zoom. There are various “shopping lists” – WDC on some projects, “The Leamy Foundation” and “Active Travel Hub” are busy with others.
Amnesty Skip– JF has received no correspondence from WDC Cleansing department, although the project was given the green light to Cllr Bollan by WDC.
Allotments – There has been no further correspondence regarding this project.
Pumpkin Walk – This event led to a chance meeting with Ruth Pryce who works for Community Justice.
JF suggested she is invited along to a CC meeting where we could discuss the payback offered by one of the perpetrators of the defibrillator theft. There was then a short discussion about the current problems in the area around youths drinking in public areas and the need for a police presence.
West Dunbartonshire Environment Trust – Work has started on the flowerbeds at the new community centre, however, there was some disagreement over what was to be planted, with Maureen (the caretaker) not wanting shrubs as she felt they would not be maintained. We (the CC) have three willing volunteers for maintaining any shrubs etc. so this will be relayed.
Bonhill and Dalmonach Community Council
+Community Centre Security – Michelle Lynn has not yet responded regarding the locking of the gates and the paving for the fire escape being redone.
COP 26 Pedal – This was a very soggy ride with conditions being near hypothermic but, nonetheless, it was very successful.
Member standing down - Regretfully, Fiona McGeachin is stepping down from the CC as she has another commitment on a Monday night. She would, however, like to be kept in the loop. Review of Scheme of Establishment – There will need to be a decision made regarding this in the next meeting. There was a discussion about boundary issues. If we were to split the CC into Old Bonhill and New Bonhill, there would need to be enough people willing to start a New Bonhill CC and Cllr Bollan’s fear was that if we split, it would be too difficult to get this and New Bonhill would therefore lose a CC altogether, as currently, New Bonhill is hugely underrepresented in the CC. JF will speak to Y-Sort It about using their hall for meetings, taking turns here and there, so we are seen to be in both areas and hopefully recruiting new members from New Bonhill.
Youth entertainment – JF received an email from Mr Black, a local DJ, who is interested in having nights for the local youth. JF had replied that Y-Sort It would be the best people to contact regarding this. There was then a discussion over a lack of provision for youth in the area.
Kindness Day – It was agreed that unfortunately the new centre is not yet properly equipped to host a coffee morning as previously suggested. It was decided that this would be a nice idea for early next year. It was also stated that WDC may have cash from their Isolation Fund to help with the cost of a coffee morning.
Further to this, the Environment Trust have offered tree planting sessions if we have areas where we could plant around 50 trees per area. This would take place around February.
Treasurer’s Report:
Road Safety – Samantha Henderson of Elmbank Drive had contacted Cllr Millar as her son was hit by a car – he ran out between two cars. WDC was contacted and Cllr Millar did a walk around with Derek Barr and Steven Watson. They were asked about the long buses going up on the kerbs and it was suggested that shorter buses could be used. It was agreed that as well as being dangerous, the kerbs will be getting damaged. Road markings (20s Plenty), safety barriers and signage was suggested. Cllr Millar is awaiting a response from this. It was suggested the CC contacts SPT to ask for shorter buses.
Dalmonach Steps – The revised drafts are now available and everyone had a look at them. The Environment Trust have offered £60000 towards this project so we need another (approximately) £80000.
* FJ talked about the lack of affordable groups for local “parents and toddlers” and was thinking about starting a new playgroup, hoping to use the new Community Centre as it’s base. This was met with suitable encouragement and FJ will explore this further.
Monday 13 December in the Dalmonach Community Centre.
*This has since been changed to a virtual meeting due to the rising numbers of Covid in the area
Welcome
Fiona McGeachin, Margaret Stewart
1. Minutes and Matters Arising
Proposal and Acceptance of Minutes
• ATCF (see below).
• Local Road Safety
• Amnesty Skip
• Allotments
• Dalmonach steps
• Community Centre Security
2. Chair and Secretary’s Report
• Review of CC’s Scheme of Establishment. See below
• Dumbarton/Cardross/Helensburgh Cycleway.
• A82 Tarbet – Inverarnan upgrade.
AGENDA
Bonhill and Dalmonach Community Council
3. Treasurer’s Report
4. Alexandria Town Centre Forum
5. Defibrillator/s Replacement of the Ladyton one plus the provision of another at the Community Centre.
6. Review of the Scheme of Establishment - Community Council Dispute Issues
7. AOB
Gift to C/Centre Caretaker
8. Date of Next Meeting 10 January almost certainly online.