Minutes of Meeting Thursday 3rd September 2026 (Draft)

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Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 3rd September2026  at Kilmorack Community Hall starting at 7.30pm.

Meeting Commenced at 19.32hrs (7.32pm)

Apologies:  Cllr. Emma Knox, Cllr Chris Ballance

Present: Andy Fraser, Roy Templeton, Mary Graham, Iain Stewart, Mark Hedderwick, John Graham(Secretary), Cllr David Fraser, Ross Mackillop

Minutes of Meeting 4th June 2026: Proposed: Iain Stewart, Seconded: Mary Graham.

Police Report: Written Report circulated.

Matters Arising:

  • Fanellan and Black Bridge: A proposal to close for six weeks for investigation work has caused great concern and Roads have advised that there must be a 90 day consultation period prior to any agreement. It is unlikely that THC will agree to such a closure.
  • A831: Advice of intended closure has been challenged with alternative options now under consideration by THC Roads. As in the Black Bridge all are encouraged to send their concerns to Alistair Macleod at THC. Community Councillors were of a mind that this is unacceptable as the alternative route through Kiltarlity is a mixture of winding and single track roads.
  • Ballach Wind Farm. – will be heard by SAPC in October 2026.
  • Spiittal to Loch Buidhe, Beauly OHL – In process to a PLI. THC to consider next week. Recommendation to raise an objection.
  • Beauly to Peterhead OHL – In preparation for a PLI.
  • Breakachy Access route to towers. On hold and awaiting a meeting with SSEN. The CC were made aware of alterative routing through forest. This is for exploratory site investigation for towers.
  • Ross Mackillop, Community Support Officer- renewables engagement. Ross explained his function and the CCs were able to engage with him on problems and expectations.
  • Tourist Tax – With no fixed figures to confirm a lively discussion took place with Cllr David Fraser taking on board the CC’s and community concerns. Currently under twelve week consultation.
  • Planning Training – Roy Templeton had been on a previous course and found it helpful. However on a show of hands no one felt they had the time to attend any more courses. There had been a view expressed that THC could provide an advisor for Community Councils facing complicated planning applications.
  • Citizens Advice – Pop-in sessions were to be arranged, probably at the Phipps Hall. There was general support with the proviso that they be well advertised well in advance and proper signage outside the hall on the day.

Chairman’s Business:

  • The Chairman expressed some concern that the Speed Sign on the Altyre approach to Wester Balblair, approved a while back by Breedon has not materialised despite both the Chairman and John Stewart chasing it up.
  • Lovat seems to have started construction of their BESS in Balblair Quarry.
  • Heras fencing has been falling down at the bottom of the Wester Balblair path adjacent to the Quarry.

Secretary: – Wreath ordered and treasurer passed payment of £35  

Planning: No Report

Treasurer: Balance at bank £4426.90

ANOB:

  • The Community Council agreed to re-appoint Mark Hedderwick as Community Council representative on the ACF Board.
  • Mark Hedderwick mentioned a prospective new member of the CC and passed his email to the Chairman and Secretary to action.

Meeting Closed: at 20.59hrs (8.59pm)

Next Meeting: Thursday 1st October 2026, 7.30pm, at Kilmorack Community Hall.

Signed:                                Andy Fraser, Chairman