Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 3^rd December 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.45pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), John Stewart (Vice-Chair) Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Mark Hedderwick, Cllr. Dr. Jean Davis

Guests: PC K. Mackenzie

Apologies: Cllr. Margaret Davidson, Cllr. Helen Carmichael

Meeting commenced:  7.40pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 5^th November 2015 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by Duncan Fraser, seconded by John Stewart – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report: PC Karen Mackenzie reported that there had been no reported crimes in the area. A paper on winter driving had been provided and JG reported it was already on the web site and on the Kilmorack Hall facebook page. PC Mackenzie was thanked for attending and then left.

Matters arising:

1. SSE road assessment update – Neil Anderson had passed the pictures and report on to THC for consideration and we are now awaiting a response – ongoing
2. Druim Ba Wind Farm application – KCC has until the end of December to lodge their preliminary comments and until 21^st January for a detailed objection. Concerns were expressed about the lens and sensor for the photomontages which yet again were wrong and understated the impact. The impact in an inhabited area was considered unacceptable and so the committee voted to object on non-compliance with THC Policy, HWLDP and Onshore wind farm draft supplementary guidance(Sept 2015). and visual impact. Further more it was agreed that we should support neighbouring Community Councils. Draft letter of objection to be circulated to KCC Community Councillors for comment
3. Bus Shelter repairs – All agreed that Wester Balblair should be the first one to be repaired. Future improvements will be discussed at a future meeting.
4. HWLDP – Consultation has been extended to 29^th MG to forward link to members. The online consultation is reasonably simple to respond to.
5. KCC Awards – John Taylor of Community Services (Roads)was recognised for his efforts after being nominated by KCC and Strathnairn CC for the THC Quality Awards which he received.
6. Aigas Forest Wood Fuel- Thanks to MH for the use of his wood processor and DF for delivery to local pensioners.

Chairman’s Business:

• SSE Loch Buidhe public debate. The Chairman felt the the new proposed line was the best option. He was disappointed that the old maps had been used and the height of the towers was not shown to scale. He suggested a letter was sent to SSE making this point.
• Noise monitoring is ongoing.

 Vice Chairman’s Report:  

• Neil Anderson and Alistair Brown (THC) walked the new paths and noted the problems. The car parking on the new path with the dropped kerb to the west was discussed and the legal situation would be looked into. The landscaping on the Toll Path bypass was due to have started in December. Andrew Hogg(SSE) was not available to clarify the situation. NA to be emailed about the seat base.

Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:  Nothing to report

Finance:

• Secretary’s fees(£600) were due to be paid and £45 to the men’s shed for the wreath Holders at the Lovat memorial.
• Balance stands at £2403.35 but once the payments are made the balance will be £1758.35

Planning Matters:  No applications this month

AOCB:  .

• Community Broadband Survey to be conducted by Aigas Community Forest. Spare questionnaires were available.
• Uneven road surface on A831 caused by tree roots was getting worse and concerns had been expressed by residents.  JG to contact Community Services(Roads) to discuss whether a cushion or at least warning signs could be provided.

 Next meeting:   4^th February 2016 at the Kilmorack Hall. Inaugural meeting of the re-elected Councillors at 7.30pm followed by normal meeting at 7.30pm

Meeting Closed: 9.39pm    

 Signed:

 Steve Byford            

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 5^th November 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.30pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), John Stewart (Vice-Chair) Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Mark Hedderwick, Cllr. D. Jean Davis

Guests: PC Billy Macdonald (8.24pm)

Apologies: Cllr. Margaret Davidson, Cllr. Helen Carmichael, Cllr. Hamish Wood

Meeting commenced:  7.44pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 1^st October 2015 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by Duncan Fraser, seconded by John Graham – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report: PC Billy Macdonald – No recorded crime in the area. Be aware of Eastern European organised gangs targeting the Highlands.

Matters arising:

1. Community Council Elections: KCC status quo remains. Inaugural meeting of next term 3^rd December 2015 which will be chaired by Cllr. Helen Carmichael.
2. Altyre/Toll Path update on maintenance. SSE have provided THC with a ‘planting plan’ for the zig-zag path which highlights a maintenance responsibility for that section for the following 3 years. This includes litter pick up of the site, general inspection of the planting, maintenance of the planting and review of the existing trees to be undertaken each year. There will be a three year maintenance program and a grant to fund ongoing maintenance of £55,650. Presently they are snagging the scheme prior to handover. Alasdair Brown to meet with John Stewart to indentify areas of concern.
3. SSE roads assessment in the Braes – awaiting update.
4. Verges and Hedges – ongoing discussions (MH)
5. Loch nam Bonnach access – Stewart Eastaugh (Access Rights Officer, THC) held talks with Hatfield Farms(Farley estate) which were very positive. Stewart is preparing a report for the estate which will identify works necessary and any support available. The Estate has expressed their wish for a positive relationship with the Community.
6. Beauly-Blackhillock Upgrade – SSE has planned consultation for Kilmorack, Kiltarlity and Beauly. To be held in the Kilmorack Hall, 25/11/15 between 2.00pm and 7.30pm
7. Bus Shelters – Repairs are somewhere down the list of priorities unless damaged. KCC to discuss with THC the practicalities of KCC replacing the panels and painting (THC to supply materials?)
8. Toll War Memorial – SB to lay Community Wreath. Paths and grass have been cleared of leaves but will be re-done on the morning of the Service.
9. Community Broadband Update – JG attended a meeting with HIE (Community Broadband Scotland) on Monday 2^nd A proposal was tabled for a large scheme encompassing South Loch Ness side and north as far as Scatwell and Strathconon. We were advised of further BT rollouts mostly based around Loch Ness and the promise(?) that we will all be advised by Christmas which areas will not receive updated fibre broadband. Next step, go it alone or a large scheme will be a survey to identify need and desire for a Community Broadband (David Garvie of Aigas Community Forest is organising this). There is funding from CBS for this exercise.
10. Refugees – MG and JG attended a Refugee Crisis Third Sector Interface Meeting at Smithton. One hundred refugees, encompassing approximately twenty five families, are expected to be relocated to the Highland Region. Requests for residents to offer accommodation and rental property was discussed and we will hear appeals for that through THC. There were a wide range of concerns in an area with a massive housing shortage already.

Chairman’s Business:

• The Chairman reported on a visit by Mary Scanlon MSP who met Steve Byford and John Stewart to hear first hand the issues of the substation and noise complaints. The subsequent press coverage suggests that she was quite disturbed by the situation.

 Vice Chairman’s Report:  

• JS reported on the Liaison meeting with Breedon at the Quarry. Discussions covered the re-instatement of the old quarry to a natural state. Also work on the continuation of the link paths. SSE have agreed to pay for the work with Breedon supplying materials.

Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• Next year’s proposed meeting dates were circulated and agreed.

Finance:

• Balance now stands at £2403.45

Planning Matters:  No applications this month

AOCB:  .

• The electric connection to the defib is not yet in place although the Perspex in the porch at the Hall has been replaced. JG will raise it at the Hall AGM
• MH will be cutting firewood in Aigas forest for distribution to those in the community in need of support. The Council was asked to help identify suitable recipients.

Next meeting:   3^rd December 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall. Inaugural meeting of the re-elected Councillors at 7.30pm followed by normal meeting at 7.45pm 

Meeting Closed: 9.45pm    

 Signed:

 Steve Byford            

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 1^st  October 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.30pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Mark Hedderwick,

Guests: PC Billy Macdonald, Zofia Fraser

Apologies: John Stewart, Cllr. Margaret Davidson, Cllr. Helen Carmichael

Meeting commenced:  7.40pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 3^rd September 2015 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by Duncan Fraser, seconded by Mark Hedderwick – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report: PC Billy Macdonald – Two non serious RTC in the area and reports of one possible bogus call.

Zofia Fraser, a prospective independent Councillor, introduced herself and asked what the issues were for the Kilmorack area. Left 8.25

Matters arising:

1. Community Council Elections: Members were reminded about the date for nominations.
2. Beinn Mhor wind farm. The Chairman had been notified of a legal challenge by WPD. Charles Stephen has been notified.
3. Altyre/Toll Path update on maintenance. Awaiting a response from Tracey Urray.
4. SSE roads assessment in the Braes – Steve Byford, John Stewart and Duncan Fraser met Neil Anderson and Andrew Hogg and travelled the affected roads. Neil Anderson had arranged photos and would meet with THC(roads). Further to that meeting he would report back to SSE’s senior management..
5. Verges and Hedges – An update from MH which indicated that contractors would budget at £35 per hour – ongoing. Funding and manpower need resourcing.
6. Ditches from Shin Tower to Farlie House are blocked JG to contact John Taylor (Community services)
7. Wall at War Memorial – Update from DF. It was suggested that perhaps Community Payback could pressure wash the stones. Plans to refurbish wall are in hand.
8. Seats – Altyre – DF has liaised with Charlie Barclay and that is agreed. Need to ask THC if planning permission is required. Need clarification on whether SSE have handed over on work before we can proceed.
9. Complaint from neighbouring farms that weeds have been allowed to grow and will migrate to his fields if not addressed. Will again address this with THC.

Chairman’s Business:

• Cheque received from the British Legion Beauly and District Club to support the Community Council’s activities. MG to send letter of thanks. 

Vice Chairman’s Report:  No Report

Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• Next SSE CLG meeting Lovat Arms, 8^th October 7.15pm.

Finance:

• £100 paid out to Men’s Shed and £200 received from British Legion. Balance stands at £2427.74

Planning Matters:  No applications this month

AOCB:  .

• Bus Shelter(wooden) needs re-staining. Also the perspex in all the bus shelters are showing signs of wear/vandalism and need replacement. JG to contact John Taylor and see who is responsible.
• Drainage at Old Cemetery needs attention. MH will attend to this. Work on BT Boxes has caused blockage.

 Next meeting:   5^th November 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall.

 Meeting Closed: 9.25pm    

 Signed:

 Steve Byford            

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 3^rd September 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.30pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), John Stewart (Vice Chair) Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Mark Hedderwick, Cllr. Margaret Davidson(8.18pm)

Guests: PC Scott Maclean, Stacey Beaton (Community)

Apologies:

Meeting commenced:  7.36pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 4^th June 2015 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by Mark Hedderwick,  seconded Duncan Fraser – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report: PC Scott Maclean – One RTA near Teafrish. Suspicious person in Wester Balblair asking about van

Matters arising:

1. Community Council Elections. Notification posters have been put on Notice Boards and on the web site.
2. Broadband /Phone Issues. JG updated the Council on progress with Community Broadband(ACF). Next step is public consultation by questionnaire. The phones are back on line but the new access to fibre optic is variable.
3. Altyre Road and Braes – Neil Anderson(SSE) to assess the roads with SB, JS and DF on the 24^th It is suggested that the top of Altyre would benefit from top dressing and the issue of the drain at the top of Altyre needs addressing. Request to formalise status of Braes Roads with SSE, THC (John Taylor)
4. Cnoc an Eas Confirm objection on the basis of road safety between Wester Balblair Quarry and Lovat Bridge and the visual disturbance, especially from red aircraft anti collision beacons on towers. Ask that if the scheme is approved a condition would be the ban on all traffic on A831 Black Bridge to Cannich.
5. Maintenance of new footpaths: Email Tracey Urry for confirmation of ownership and responsibility for maintenance. See if the snagging has identified the dip at the bottom of the bypass path. Check if maintenance budget received from SSE and discuss the possibility of KCC taking over maintenance (funded).
6. Verges/hedge cutting: Highlight bad areas on map. Consider if KCC could take over responsibility for this and if funding could be found. MH to ask local contractors (costs/feasibility)
7. Fire wood offer. ACF has offered to provide firewood to those in the Community who are deemed at risk. This is from the windblow that needs clearing.
8. Quality Award – THC. Suggestion to nominate John Taylor(Community Services-Roads) for his ongoing assistance. Proposal approved.

Chairman’s Business:

• CLG Report – SSE has now agreed that the noise levels appear to be load related. He also commented on the lack of noise since the SVC was closed down due to the Incident.

Vice Chairman’s Report:  

• Work is ongoing to repair the BT box and to prevent further flooding damage.

Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• Date of next meeting to be changed to the 1^st October due to the elections on the 8^th needing the hall.

Finance:

• Annual Grant cheque received and balance now stands at £2327.44

Planning Matters:

• There were two outstanding planning applications which were technically out of time for objections but no issues had been raised.
• Beinn Mhor has gone to appeal at the Court of Sessions despite refusal by the Scottish Ministers.

AOCB:  .

• DF remarked that the stone wall to the right of the entrance to the War memorial needs attention. DF would seek a price.
• MH to ask Charlie Barclay if seat could be sited on field edge at the top of Atlyre.
• Donation of £100 agreed to Men’s Shed for cleaning and re-furbishment of bench (Jim Munro)

 Next meeting:   1^st October 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall.

Meeting Closed: 9.25pm    

 Signed:

 Steve Byford            

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 4^th June 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.30pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), John Stewart (Vice Chair) Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Mark Hedderwick, Cllr. Helen Carmichael

Apologies: Cllr. Margaret Davidson

Meeting commenced:  7.35pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 30^th  April 2015 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by John Stewart and seconded Duncan Fraser – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report: PC Scott Maclean – One minor RTC. Beware Phone Scam targeting the Inverness Area. Details to be promulgated by KCC web site.

Matters arising:

1. Broadband Update – JG reported on meeting with Community Broadband Scotland on behalf of Aigas Community Forest.
2. Wreath for War Memorial. New Logo discussed. SB will provide design assistance incorporating Print of Old Kilmorack Falls. Plans to provide a new metal holder for wreaths. 20% of cost provided by KCC. Approved.
3. Altyre Resurfacing – Cllr MD had enquired and it had been removed from the timetable. Concern was expressed as the state of many parts of the Braes due to contractors use. A GPS Camera would be sourced to record bad areas and the results sent to Roads dept. Can be uploaded to web site. SB to email NA about resurfacing and repairs as promised relating to Murphy’s before and after videos.
4. Druim Ba wind farm scoping – 10 turbines – await more details. The Committee however expressed their view that they were disappointed at the application and felt that it reflected an arrogance and lack of respect to the Community

Chairman’s Business:

• CLG Report – Still no answer as to why noise from SVC varies. Cllr HC to ask SSE to arrange meeting with EHOs and KCC

Vice Chairman’s Report:  

• JS has been approached by the daughters of the late Jo Munro wishing to make a donation. It was considered that a seat on the new path at the Toll Brae may be appropriate. JS to speak to Mackays re a base.
• Jim Munro’s bench needs attention. Duncan suggested that the Men’s Shed could cope with that and he will attend to it.

 Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• Council Annual Survey – Opinions sought.

 Finance:

• No transactions this month. Balance is £1472.38

 Planning Matters:

• Short’s application approved
• Broallan Applications – no objections

AOCB:  .

• Ask NA(SSE) for update on Tower End pylon and barrier.

Next meeting:   3^rd  September 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall.

 Meeting Closed: 10.10pm    

 Signed:  

 Steve Byford            

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 30^th  April 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.30pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), John Stewart (Vice Chair) Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham,

Apologies: Cllr. Helen Carmichael, Cllr. Margaret Davidson

Meeting commenced:  7.34pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 2^nd April 2015 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by John Stewart and seconded Duncan Fraser – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report: PC Scott Maclean – No crimes or public order issues.

Matters arising:

1. Fish Pass opening. JG read letters from SSE stating that there were no plans to re-open to the Public due to safety concerns, Cllr. Davidson had raised this with A. Brand and it was agreed that it should be brought up at the CLG.
2. Broadband Complaints are ongoing but Aigas Community Forest has agreed to pursue the option of providing Community Broadband with Community Broadband Scotland. The Cabinets are now finished but no date for final activation.
3. Urchany Path – Ask Mark to provide quote to Stewart Eastaugh who can then seek funding.
4. SSE Resilient Communities Fund –Kilmorack Hall has decided that the ongoing obligations and responsibilities would be onerous to any future management and have therefore declined the opportunity at this time, Information has been passed to Beauly Care project. In these circumstances the KCC felt unable to progress this any further.
5. Quarry Paths update – no report.

Chairman’s Business:

• SB spoke to Andrew Hogg. Stone( Wester Balblair lodge) to be moved to SB’s barn in Windhill in May.
• Altrye Road path nearing completion. SB asked the secretary to confirm with MD plans to resurface the Altyre road this summer.

Vice Chairman’s Report:  

• JS referred to the cars parked on the new footpath between the Kirk and Altyre Road. Complaints from people with children’s buggies and wheelchairs being forced into the road to pass. Email THC for clarification on parking.

Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• Mobile Library Routing – not applicable.

Finance:

• No transactions this month. Balance is £1472.38

Planning Matters:  None

AOCB:  

• Complaints have been received about ripples westbound on A831 just past substation. Vehicles have been damaged. Email Community Services(Roads) .
• Emergency Plan – This was brought up for discussion and further consideration.

Next meeting:   4th June 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall.

 Meeting Closed: 9.12pm    

 Signed:

 Steve Byford            

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 2^nd April 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.45pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), John Stewart (Vice Chair) Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Cllr. Helen Carmichael

Apologies: Cllr. Hamish Wood, Cllr. Margaret Davidson

Meeting commenced:  7.51pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 5^th March 2015 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by Steve Byford and seconded John Stewart – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report: PSgt Craig Stuart – No crimes reported

Matters arising:

1. Broadband Complaints – JG speaking to Stuart Robertson of Digital Highlands and Islands. Assessing possibility of Aigas Community Forest providing Community Broadband.
2. BHF Update – Defibrillator is now operational but presently stored at Cluanie. Awaiting the electrician to fit the box at the Kilmorack Hall.
3. Ditches – vote of thanks to John Taylor for ditch clearing in the Braes and opposite Aigas Dam.
4. Cnoc an Eas wind farm consultation day – It was considered that the times were not appropriate for the Community.

Chairman’s Business:

• Noise issues Wester Balblair – SSE had asked Sgurr to monitor at Croft House and Satori . Both residents spoke to Sgurr. Subsequent to that SSE decided to monitor substation only. Respond to Alastair Brand, Cllr. Margaret Davidson, Cllr. Helen Carmichael, Gregor McCormick, John Lee, and David Gardner(SSE) stating that we are disappointed and would they re-consider. Also still requesting jackets around the SVC filters.

Vice Chairman’s Report:  

• JS took Neil Anderson to discuss the new quarry path. Andrew Hogg(SSE) to liaise with Breedon and Lovat estates.

 Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• Adopt a Phone Box. It was suggested that if ACF wished to adopt the box at the Crask of Aigas, KCC would support. All agreed.

Finance: The treasurer has paid for the Defib wall box. 

Planning Matters:  None

AOCB:  

• Helen Carmichael updated members on delivery of the Beauly Care bus and Men’s shed.

 Next meeting:   30^th April 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall. (change due to elections)

Meeting Closed: 9.35pm    

 Signed:  

 Steve Byford            

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 5th March 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.30pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), John Stewart (Vice Chair) Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Mark Hedderwick(8.00pm)

Attendees: PC Karen Mackenzie

Apologies: Cllr. Hamish Wood, Cllr. Helen Carmichael, Cllr. Margaret Davidson

Meeting commenced:  7.37pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 5^th February 2015 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by Steve Byford and seconded Duncan Fraser – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report: PC Karen Mackenzie – No crimes reported

Matters arising:

1. ACF Update – Aigas Forest has been officially acquired at 11.04am this morning. A small working party cleared entrance and erected some temporary signage. A Celebration event will be held in te Forest in May. SB to speak to Breedon and Eddie Mackay regarding some aggregate for the Forest Car park. ACF AGM will take place on Monday 16^th March 2015 7.30pm Magnus House.
2. BHF Update – Defibrillator has been funded and will be despatched on receipt of £400 contribution from KCC..
3. Ward Forum – JG attended. Unfortunately there was a low attendance from the Communities and after a presentation from Fire Scotland and Police Scotland a discussion ensued with SSE over the problems within the response to the four day power outage. Reliance on social media and web sites has proved a stumbling block as well as issues with the TV and local Radio, now run increasingly from Glasgow. It is perhaps incumbent upon us to sign up for the Community Emergency Plan and become a contact point for SSE. Some errors could perhaps have been addressed with direct contact. Lessons have(?) been learnt.
4. IACCF – John and Mary Graham attended and it was a lively debate. There is certainly some confusion on the understanding of Community Empowerment. It was suggested that a Planning Forum would be of use in that Community Councils could clarify their position.
5. Loch Buidhe Consultation – Email to be sent to Lisa regarding the issues raised at the meeting:

Photo images as presented were of a misleading scale, despite this being raised at a previous consultation.

Could undergrounding not be reconsidered if saving are made from the acceptance of the preferred option central line.

Pointing out agreed mitigation in Kilmorack for these lines.

Reference to the Local plan and clearance of lines from existing structures.

 Chairman’s Business:

• Noise issues Wester Balblair – SB reported meeting with THC and Councillors. It was an informative and constructive meeting.

Vice Chairman’s Report:  

• JS Visited the Tealing Substation to see the MSCDNs. JS reported that only one was working on the day and it was very windy. SB requested clarification of the number of MSCDNs planned for Wester Balblair and that SSE could provide someone technical to answer questions on noise at the next CLG meeting.

Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• AGM – Requested confirmation that Officers were prepared to continue – all agreed
• Asked for accounts to be prepared and presented.
• SSE’s Resilient Community Fund. It is agreed that we should support the application for funding for a generator for the hall, hot cabinet, soup tureen and possibly some PMR radios. To be discussed with the Hall Committee with a view to a joint application.

Finance: The treasurer provided an update – attached.

Planning Matters:  None

AOCB:  

• Stone Benches for Quarry walk – progress.
• Hugh Beaton’s Corner. HB has agreed to a bench. DF to liaise to identify a location.
• Bench on Altyre – Mh to speak to the local tenant farmer(CB).
• Access – Path at Ardochy blocked by flooding. Liaise with ACF paths committee about clearing.
• Torgormack – Water run off and freezing on road with a lot of grit making it dangerous. JG to email John Taylor (Community Services)
• End Tower Shin Line – email Neil Angerson SSE again.
• New Toll path. Provision of Barrier at the top of the path?

 Next meeting:  2^nd April 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall – 7.30pm AGM 7.45pm Meeting

Meeting Closed: 9.50pm    

 Signed

Steve Byford, Chairman

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 5th February 2015 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.30pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Mark Hedderwick, Cllr. Helen Carmichael, Cllr. Margaret Davidson

Attendees: PC Karen Mackenzie

 Guests: Mr. Frank Spencer-Nairn

Apologies: Cllr. Hamish Wood, John Stewart

Meeting commenced:  7.38pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 4^th December 2014 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by John Graham and seconded Duncan Fraser – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report:

• PC Karen Mackenzie reported theft of diesel from some local plant machinery and mentioned the request for speed monitoring of the Altyre Road (presently awaiting availability of resources). She also asked people to be aware of cold callers for scrap in the area. There are some dealers who have identity cards from THC and these should be recorded.  – PC Mackenzie was thanked by the Chairman and then left.

Tourism Business Improvement District (TBiD) – Frank Spencer-Nairn addressed the committee on the expansion of the Loch Ness TBiD to include Strathglass and other areas. He then answered questions as to this development.

Matters arising:

1. Wester Balblair – SB confirmed that some residents were still hearing the noise from Wester Balblair. A request that EHOs continue noise measurements for a longer period. MD/HC to arrange a meeting with EHO’s and CC to see how we move forward.
2. Aigas Forest Update – Money for purchase has been received. The final legal issues are being addressed.
3. Ditches and Culverts – Farley. Send email to THC regarding lack of ditch and culvert clearance which has once again resulted in water crossing the road and freezing. Two gritters in fact came off the road proving our case. MH also raised the issue of the prominence of the barriers at the termination tower for the Shin line. Email Neil Anderson SSE to see if some improvements could be done whilst Murphy’s are on site.
4. British Heart Foundation – MG reported that the CPR sessions were now ready to start. It was requested that each Councillor or partner could host a session in their area.
5. Power Outage Response – SB requested that Neil Anderson be asked to provide the name of a senior person to respond to the serious issue of a lack of communication. Although food vans were provided in Beauly, few people were aware of them until after the event. Reliance on internet and social media when there was no power was ill judged. The provision of help was available but poorly communicated in the local area.

(Cllr. Helen Carmichael left – 9.12pm)

Chairman’s Business: No current issues

Vice Chairman’s Report:  No current issues

Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• Fuel Assistance Project – CAB have provided a Fuel Assistance Officer for the Aird. Details are in the newsletter.
• NFUS/SCAA – Saving Time – A project to encourage people working on the land to carry information identifying sites on their land with OS references which can be used to direct the air ambulance to any incident. Briefly discussed and those Community Councillors with an interest in this to consult and come back to the Council.
• Inverness to Beauly Cycle Route – approval for this path has now reached Kirkhill corner and James Campbell approached us for our support for the area within Kilmorack (Lovat Bridge to the Rail Bridge) A suggestion to link with the new Toll Path bypass was raised by the cyclists. In theory the CC expressed support but more details required.
• Charleston Academy Shinty Club- Funding request. Vote for £100 donation proposed JG seconded MH, Approved.
• Ward Forum 16^th February at Fort Augustus and 26^th February at the Town House, Inverness
• IACCF 17^th February at the Town House

Finance: The treasurer advised that no payments this month but provided a written report for THC.

Planning Matters:  15/00199/FUL – Croft House, WB. Steve Byford declared an interest. No complaints/objections had been received and as a simple extension the opinion was that there was no cause to comment.

AOCB:  Bhein Mhor update – letter to Simon Hindson requesting that the site visit should include transit of the Cannich to Wester Balblair road re-enforcing our views about safety concerns about the very large number of heavy aggregate and concrete lorries planned to use the A831. 

 Next meeting:  5^th March 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall – 7.30pm

Meeting Closed: 9.50pm    

 Signed

Steve Byford

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 4th December 2014 at the ‘The Kilmorack Hall’ at 7.45pm

Present:  Steve Byford (Chair), John Stewart (Vice-Chair), Duncan Fraser(Treasurer),  Mary Graham(Secretary), John Graham, Mark Hedderwick

Val MacIver(Platform PR), PS Craig Stuart

Invited guests: Morven Taylor HSCHT, Mr. and Mrs. Oliver, Belladrum

Apologies: Cllr. Margaret Davidson, Cllr. Helen Carmichael, Cllr. Hamish Wood – Cllr. Drew Hendry sent his Christmas Greetings.

Meeting commenced:  7.51pm.

Minutes of the previous meeting Thurs 6^th November 2014 were taken as read and accepted as a true and accurate record.  Proposed by John Graham and seconded Mark Hedderwick – Approved.

Police Scotland, Beauly Area Report:

• Police Sgt Craig Stuart introduced himself as the new Beauly Area Sargeant and explained that he grew up in the area. No crimes reported in the area. Asked us to make people aware of oil thefts in the surrounding areas. Vice-Chair expressed concerns of speed of vehicles travelling down Altyre Road to the A831. Suggestion was to ask TEC services for speed registering strips. PS Stuart then left.

Noise Complaint: Mr. and Mrs. Oliver of Belladrum reported hearing noise for two years affecting Mrs. Oliver’s sleep(night duty nurse) which they had not realised until lately was related to the Wester Balblair noise issue. MJ to email details of EHO (Gregor MacCormick) to Mrs. Oliver. 

Highland Small Communities Housing Trust: Morven Taylor explained the organisation’s work in developing affordable houses for local communities. We could look into the possibility of grant funding for a survey to identify need and land availability in the local community for people/family wanting to return to the area. MH raised the issue of Forestry Crofts as an example. The Chairman thanked Morven for attending. MT left at 8.45pm. 

Cnoc an Eas Wind Farm: Val MacIver was queried and stated that the application, after further amendments, would be applied for mid March/April. Mrs. MacIver was asked why two separate applications for met masts (14/04301/FUL and 14/04302/FUL) had been presented for the one site and why had the application been presented so close to Christmas. Time to comment was less than clear and different to that stated at the Force 9 presentation at Kilmorack Hall. The community has less than three weeks to comment at a time of the year when everyone is committed to other things. VM agreed to check. No further discussions. VM Left.

Matters arising:

1. Wester Balblair – SB reported: Still awaiting confirmation on why sub-station (SVC?) was very noisy on weekend after SVC put back on line. Write to MPs to update them. MG to email Gregor MacCormick to ask what background noise level THC requires. MG to email Neil Anderson to ask why the SVC was not put in a building from the beginning. All answers to the forthcoming Community Liaison Group meeting.
2. Loch Buidhe Update: After the latest SSE community presentation at Kilmorack Hall, SB raised concerns that the visuals of the new larger towers and the old existing towers were not to the same scale. Photos of new towers were not like for like and misleading. It was of some concerns that MH had been advised that the new undergrounding would effectively be redundant in a few years. The Council felt it important that we should press for all the new lines to be undergrounded. Otherwise the mitigation agreements with THC and KCC would not have been honoured.
3. Benches: A quote had been received of c. £1200. Ideas for positioning were discussed but it was decided to defer any progress until after the new paths were complete.
4. Nation of Lifesavers – British Heart Foundation Mini Annie manikins(Call, Push, Rescue) had arrived(on show) and we were awaiting the instruction manuals and DVDs. The Hall Committee have agreed the use of the porch for the siting of a defibrillator at the Hall and will look into the power supply for a heated cabinet. Application for the grant is ongoing.
5. Budget Consultation: A letter, not the survey, had been sent as agreed and an acknowledgement received.

(MH left – 9.42pm)

Chairman’s Business:

• A request from the Kilmorack Hall Committee for a letter of support for an SSE Community Grant for new windows. Agreed for next years round.
• Frank Spencer-Nairn wished to address the meeting on the TBid MG to invite to next meeting – agreed.

 Vice Chairman’s Report:  No current issues

Secretary’s Business and Correspondence:

• Meeting dates for Hall provisionally booked. It was decided to revert to 7.30pm start and JS asked if the October meeting could be changed to the 8^th. With these variations the dates were agreed.

(JS left – 9.55pm)

Finance: There were no transactions last month and the balance stands at £2400. A request for a more formal written presentation of accounts had been received from the Ward Manager, Charles Stephens. The treasurer will take this on board. 

Planning Matters:

• 14/04301/FUL and 14/04302/FUL Cnoc an Eas Wind Farm: two separate applications for met masts had been notified. The Chair pointed out that a great number of those in the Community will see up to thirteen turbines. As this is outwith our Community Area, and only refers to the masts at this time, it was felt that individual objections would be the most appropriate. When the full application is presented we shall discuss that fully at that time. 

AOCB: JG wished to record the Community Council’s thanks to the Chairman, SB, for the use of his leaf blower to clear the War Memorial in advance of the Remembrance Day Service.

 Next meeting:  5^th February 2015 at the Kilmorack Hall – 7.30pm

Meeting Closed: 22.05hrs    

 Signed

Steve Byford