Ingram St Car Park - Reporter Issues Notice of Intention
The Reporter to the Planning and Environmental Appeals Division of the Scottish Government advised on 16 July that they are minded to grant permission for the redevelopment of the Ingram St Car Park as 109 flats. MCTCC has long campaigned for this site to be developed as a community park.
Tall Buildings in Glasgow - Public Consultation
A public consultation on Tall Buildings in Glasgow has begun in response to the increasing number of these being built and planned, especially in the city centre and on its fringes.
The consultation will run until 30 September, and will help to shape the final design guidance on Tall Buildings - which not only guides the best location and design principles for these, but is a key factor in the determination of planning applications.
Given the increasing pressure to develop these types of buildings, the trend to add additional height to re purposed buildings, and the move to the re-densification and re-population of the city centre, it became clear that further design guidance was necessary.
While strategies such as the Central District Regeneration Framework, City Centre Strategic Development Framework and the River Clyde Strategic Development Framework identify opportunities for increased density and increased height along the Clydeside, it is also considered important to maintain the character of the Glasgow Central Conservation Area.
There are a range of views on Tall Buildings, with many people proposing that they can help reduce sprawl, increase density, and provide opportunities for refurbishment and re-use. Others suggest that they are inherently unsustainable, with a greater consumption of more materials, energy, and resources than lower-rise buildings, and create social and environmental problems.
Glasgow City Council recognises the role taller buildings can play in terms of sustainable and organic growth of the city system, and encourages competent, forward thinking and holistic responses to the challenges of planning, constructing, and maintaining taller buildings - so tall buildings can be sustainable if they are designed and built with care and innovation, and if they are part of a holistic urban planning strategy that balances environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects. However, the council does not view tall buildings are not a panacea for urban sustainability challenges and should be complemented by other forms of low and medium-impact development that promote diversity, liveability and inclusive economic growth.
Current design guidance on Tall Buildings is based on the following factors:
- Quality of the city centre: the distinctive qualities and values of this distinctive place including historic character and context;
- Heritage: understanding the significance of the local historic environment and the potential impact on this significance;
- Visual: the impact on the city centre streetscape, and wider urban landscapes, and views of the skyline. This includes the setting of heritage assets;
- Functional: the design, embodied carbon and carbon cost, construction and operation;
- Transport: the impact on the local transport infrastructure and particularly public transport needs;
- Environmental: the influence on local micro-climates such as creation of wind tunnels, 'canyon' effects, distances between tall buildings, overshadowing, and effect on heritage assets in terms of the impact these micro-climatic changes could have upon their fabric, and how they are experienced; and
- Cumulative: the combined impacts on heritage assets from existing, consented and proposed tall buildings.
The Tall Buildings design guidance was considered earlier this year at meetings hosted by the Glasgow Design Panel and attended by architects, designers and developers, a meeting with Ward 10 (Anderston/city/Yorkhill) community councils, and last month the council hosted a digital round table workshop for UK and international professional and academic experts with previous expertise in producing tall buildings design guidance for similar scale cities to Glasgow. The consultation beginning today will help shape the final design guidance document and is open to anyone with an interest in this topic in Glasgow.
This consultation can be found here.
Information from Glasgow City Council - published by MCTCC 9 July 2024
Britannia Panopticon - July
The Britannia Panopticon Music Hall has an amazing line up of entertainment this month, and indeed every month. MCTCC residents get 10% discount - use the discount code G1PANOPTICON when booking through their ticket website, www.ticketsource.co.uk/panopticon .
The world's oldest surviving music hall is open for general viewing every Thursday and Saturday, and locals can visit for free!
Meeting Minutes, 28 May 2024
These draft minutes will be reviewed at our next meeting on 25th June.
Attended by: Tam Coyle (Chair), David Cowan, Peter Hayman, David Hughes, Gordon Millar, Scott Thornton; Ward Councillors Philip Braat and Angus Millar; Ian Elder, Glasgow City Council; Police Constables Stephen Clarke and Sean McFadden; TD, DF, NF, TMcK, RN; By Zoom video - Alice Cowan, AC, CD, SL, EM, SM, CS.
Apologies: Gary Atkinson, Niall McColl, Colin McKay, Rosalind Wardley-Smith; Ward Councillor Eva Bolander; Eileen Mills
MINUTES OF 30 APRIL MEETING
Adopted proposed by Tam Coyle, seconded by Gordon Millar. Approved.
POLICE ISSUES
PC McFadden (SMcF) reported indicative crime statistics as follows for the period 30 April to 28 May in the MCTCC area: 144 offences reported of which 84 were detected. These included assaults on police officers, bail breaches, threatening and abusive behaviour, and retail theft.
Police had seized six e-bikes in the city centre illegally modified to remove the speed limiter. More such seizures were expected. A total of 15 bikes were involved throughout Glasgow. Scott reported this would be on the agenda when he, Tam and Gary meet MSP Kaukab Stewart in early July.
Following a tip-off from a member of the public, police had executed a Sheriff’s warrant following seizure of illegal substances on King Street.
A police officer had been appointed to specifically target vandalism and graffiti in the city centre as this is a rising issue. Scott said he was due to meet her in the coming weeks.
There was lengthy discussion about the serious disturbances and vandalism following Celtic FC fans’ celebration of their team’s Premiership title win on 18 May, when 25,000 massed at and around Glasgow Cross.
Many attendees spoke of their anger at the damage, violence and widespread litter caused. Tam noted that Rangers fans had rampaged through the city centre, targeting Celtic fans, running past police vans.
Glasgow Council staff were commended on having cleared the area in time for the Cancer Research Race for Life the following morning.
Sympathy was expressed for police who had been left to keep some sort of order in the mayhem, albeit incurring large overtime costs paid for by the public. Tam said he, Scott and Gary had discussed the pending problems with Inspector Johnny Watters well before 18 May.
PC McFadden said police had tried to provide a ‘proportionate’ response with the main aim of keeping people safe.
Scott asked what contacts GCC had held with Celtic or Rangers FCs.
Councillor Millar said Glasgow City Council had an ‘ongoing dialogue and engagement’ with Celtic FC although neither Celtic nor Rangers had made any comment about that event or disruption in and around George Square when Rangers won this season’s League Cup or their ‘Ultras’ fans rampaging through parts of Merchant City on 18 May. He encouraged local communities to continue to agitate about the problem.
Councillor Braat said the behaviour was unacceptable. All parties had to shoulder part of the responsibility.
David Hughes said the clubs were opting out of their responsibilities. They should be made to pay for the damage and other costs incurred.
Tam said the situation was the same as the previous year when Celtic had also won the league. Lessons had not been learned.
Councillor Braat said there was a ‘spiral’ of such activity and the problem was likely to occur again next year.
Scott noted that MCTCC had issued a joint press statement with Calton Community Council, condemning the fans’ behaviour and stressing the effects on residents and businesses, and would be taking the matter further.
He quoted local residents saying police had been slow to turn up, only appearing in significant numbers after a large crowd had already gathered. The incidents had been a stain on Glasgow’s reputation; Glasgow was trying to attract tourists; this was having the opposite effect.
EM quoted a fellow resident in his block that she had been frightened that flares set off during the disturbances on 18 May could have set light to cladding.
SL asked for more CCTV cameras to be installed in the inner city. PC McFadden said public space was allocated by GCC. Councillor Millar said it cost £30,00 to install a single camera with an annual running cost of £10,000.
On another matter, the Director of the Tron Theatre had reported via email that drug peddling and use had become worse around Chisholm Street. Users were sharing entry codes for various flats. PC McFadden said he was aware of one suspected premises.
CITY CENTRE STRATEGY
Ian Elder, Project Manager, City Centre Regeneration at Glasgow City Council, gave a presentation and took questions.
The Strategy brings together Glasgow City Council (GCC) and Scottish Government plans including National Planning Framework 4 = A ‘Plan of Plans’.
Almost 50% of Scotland’s population live in or within an hour of Glasgow.
There are three pillars:
‘Magnetic Experience’ - More compelling reasons to visit, shop and enjoy the city centre. Development of the riverfront. Complete work on the quay. Recognise new patterns such as working from home. Glasgow has a fantastic cultural life which GCC needs to support.
‘Front door to innovation’ - Digital, health technology, climate science and creative industries which converge with arts, engineering and business. Glasgow manufactures more satellites than any other city in the world outside North America.
‘A place to live’ - Responsible to planet and people-inclusive. Moves to Net Zero. Double city centre population by 2035. Climate resilience, development the evening and night time economy including better transport links. ‘Connecting green places.’ Mixed localities had been shown to be more resilient post-Covid, as in New York.
Empty properties are being targeted for re-purposing. GCC is looking to use its existing powers more assertively and requesting additional powers from the Scottish Government. It is investigating more innovative ways to heat homes and office buildings.
AC said a large number of buildings in Glasgow and 20% of those in Scotland including historic buildings were off the national gas grid. How could they connect to the network? Councillor Millar replied that GCC’s strategy depended on national policy for connecting with low carbon energy sources.
Ian said GCC wanted to support communities with small scale interventions.
Tam said if it wanted to ‘green Merchant City’ why had it approved construction of 109 flats on the NCP car park in Ingram Street, a site which should become Merchant City Park (MCP)?
Almost every construction project discussed at MCTCC meetings over the past two years had been about student accommodation. MCTCC wanted more social housing.
RN asked what was happening with MCP. Scott explained that the Scottish Government Reporter gave her report to Ministers back in January and they were still considering it.
Peter said the strategy did not contain adequate provision for facilities for the elderly.
A total of 18 priority actions included the Avenues project, which would include the ‘Highlandman’s Umbrella,’ also covers George Square which Councillor Braat said should be completed in April 2027, and the stretch from Central Station along Clyde Street to the Trongate.
RN criticised that particular part of the Avenues project saying there were too many barriers to access the River Clyde and different teams were handling different segments and different remits. The strategy was not holistic. He had lodged an objection to the proposal following the recent public consultation.
Councillor Millar replied that these were covered by different funding sources.
A resident said there was a pressing need for a primary school in the MCTCC area. Councillor Millar said such funding depended on the Scottish Government.
David Hughes said more ‘swing parks’ and green spaces were needed. The situation resembled Easterhouse in the 1960s. The Plan had an absence of local leisure amenities and was flawed.
RN countered that Glasgow Green was a wonderful such amenity. Expenditure on play parks in Merchant City should not be at the expense of good quality architectural projects.
Another resident said there were many attic-type residential spaces which could be re-purposed.
Ian’s presentation slides will be sent to MCTCC and made available for all to view on the Website. ACTION: Tam
RN asked about the future of the College of Building and Printing site. Tam explained this was outside MCTCC’s area but he would liaise with Townhead Community Council. ACTION: Tam
PURPOSE-BUILT STUDENT ACCOMMODATION (PBSA)
Attendees again complained about the continuing surge in applications for Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA).
Councillor Millar said GCC did not have the power to mandate certain property types. The City Council wanted a mix of residential developments. Social housing would be part of the St Enoch Centre re-development.
David Hughes said GCC’s Planning Committee has the right to grant or refuse planning permission. Townhead Community Council and other CCs were ‘disgusted and appalled’ at the high number of applications there.
Answering questions on the City Centre Strategy, Ian Elder said developers were looking for a relatively high Return on Investment of 5-6% which explained their preference for PBSAs.
RN said students were a temporary population. An indigenous population was preferable.
A resident said Glasgow City Council was focussing too much on student accommodation. IE said although students came and went there would always be students in Glasgow.
WARD COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS
Councillor Millar said 3,100 parking tickets had been issued in the MCTCC area between January and April.
Scott asked if GCC was concerned at the snail’s pace progress of the Scottish Government’s Single Building Assessment Programme which is supposed to remediate dangerous cladding and timber decking to avoid another Grenfell-type disaster.
Set up in 2021, the programme had so far only completed 2 developments with work started on only 28. He had been informed that a large proportion of the buildings concerned were in Glasgow.
Councillor Braat said the problem was known at Lancefield Quay where it was causing owners problems concerning insurance and mortgaging as well as safety.
Re city centre busking Councillor Millar said GCC would publish a paper tomorrow and it would be discussed at the Council next week. Additional signage was planned to communicate the limitations. He will send the paper to MCTCC. ACTION: Councillor Millar
TD said the direction of traffic at the junction of George and Albion Streets should be changed because it was creating a hazard. This would be covered by Councillor Millar’s Walkabout with Community Councillors tomorrow.
BMcK complained about installation of air-conditioning on a building on Saltmarket which he said did not have planning permission.
NF said smells from polystyrene boxes left in pallets by a restaurant in King Street ‘resembled raw meat.’
PLANNING
Homeless Project Scotland
Councillors complained anew about the failure of Glasgow City Council officers to even respond to repeated enquiries from MCTCC about why no enforcement action had been taken on the required Change of Use application for the homeless shelter in Glassford Street. Community Councillors stressed the disturbance and annoyance to neighbouring businesses and residents including Spires Apartments and the House of Gods Hotel.
Scott quoted GCC’s policy on Planning Enforcement which the Council’s Website described as ‘high priority’ and underlined the need to ‘safeguard the amenities of neighbours.’
New applications for PBSAs
The latest such application is for 137-151 Trongate (near the British Heart Foundation charity shop).
This is for demolition of a category 'B' listed building at 137-143 Trongate and unlisted building at 145-149 Trongate and erection of a 9-storey short-stay serviced apartment building, including retention of category 'B' listed facade, ground floor retail unit and use of first and second floors of category 'B' listed building at 151 Trongate as serviced apartments
Scott noted this led through Old Wynd to two other buildings which had received planning permission for PBSAs, in effect creating a mini student campus.
Peter said the proposed tower was ‘not aesthetic.’ Since MCTCC policy is to oppose further applications for PBSA he will submit a formal objection. Closing date for objections is 7 June. ACTION: Peter
GP surgery
As part of its campaign to get the first GP surgery in Merchant City, MCTCC has submitted a Freedom of Information request to Greater Glasgow Health and Social Care Partnership about the number of local residents registered with practices elsewhere, and will follow this up. ACTION: Scott
LICENSING
Peter said six applications for Short Term Lets (STL) did not seem problematic.
Scott noted that an application for an STL did not have to be refused if the apartment concerned shared a common entry. This is only one of the factors which the Licensing Committee has to consider.
MERCHANT CITY FESTIVAL
To take place from 19-21 July.
TREASURER’S REPORT
Gordon reported a bank balance of £9,750.
David Hughes said he had made an application to GCC for £520 for litter pickers.
GRANT GIVING SCHEME
Scott is arranging a photoshoot for presentation of the approved £1,000 donation to Impact Arts.ACTION: Scott
Tam asked everyone for suggestions for other grants for local good causes. ACTION: ALL
FRIENDS OF THE RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD
Meeting to be held in City Chambers tomorrow. David Hughes said an aim was to start public tours in 2025.
SCOTTISH FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE PUBLIC CONSULTATION
Gary and Gordon attending this event tomorrow.
WEBSITE/COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
MCTCC sub-group meeting on 10 June to create an action plan. This will include a presentation on a revamped Website.
AOCB
RN said owners in the Italian Centre had been presented with extraordinary remediation costs as it was a listed building. He asked for ideas for heritage grants. ACTION: All
He asked about the derelict site bounded by George Street, High Street and College Street. Could the owner be asked to at least tidy it up? Peter suggested the site should be protected by GCC.ACTION: Peter/Ward Councillors
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 25 June, 6.30 pm in City Chambers
NEXT MMM - Tuesday 11 June, 6 pm, iCafe
Meeting Minutes, 30 April 2024
Community councillors
Tam Coyle (TC), Gary Atkinson(GA), David Cowan(DC), David Hughes(DH), Ros Atkinson(RA), Colin McKay(CM), Niall McColl(NM), Alice Cowan(AC), Peter Hayman(PH)
Residents
SL, CM, EM, AC, RE,TD,DF, TM, JR,GT,RN,CS,CD,
Elected Members
Cllr Angus Millar (AM)
Ex-officio
PC Sean McFadden, Police Scotland (SF)
Apologies
Scott Thornton, Gordon Miller, Cllr Phillip Braat, Cllr Eva Bolander, EM
1. Welcome
Tam Coyle(Chair) welcomed everyone to the meeting, including several new faces.
Minutes of Meeting, 26th March 2024
The draft minutes, which had been previously circulated via email and on our website, were accepted as a true record of the meeting
Proposed by David Cowan, seconded by David Hughes.
Police Report
PC McFadden advised that indicative statistics showed there had been 53 detections in the last month, where there is sufficient evidence to report someone, and 73 ongoing inquiries.
There are ongoing issues with some licensed premises, but they are also seeing an increase in retail crime, including abusive or threatening behaviour, which is a breach of the peace. Where issues are identified with retailers, PC McFadden advised that they work with them to support them through specialist crime reduction advice, along with proactive patrolling of the affected areas, which have been identified by members of the community, residents and businesses,
The police have a patrol matrix, which is updated regularly to proactively identify places and times where they should be as there is an increased risk of crimes being committed.
CM advised that he had witnessed several drug deals in the alley between Miller St and Wilson St, and also on Miller St itself, due to the lack of camera coverage. NM also reported seeing drug taking in the Glasshouse car park stairwell on Hutcheson St. SF advised that he wouldn’t ask CM or others to collect data on the volume or timing of drug dealing; rather they should be reported to Crimestoppers or to the Police on 101.
SF advised that car parks are a continuing source of concern for them, and also demands on their time, in terms of drug use, anti-social behaviour. There have been recent meetings at a national level with the car park operators. It is a national issue, but the city centre does seem to have a high level of problems with specific car parks.
CS asked about plain clothes operations. SF advised that there is a department that covers them, in very targeted situations, where it is known that it will be effective. There is however an increased risk to the officers when they’re inplain clothes so it is not used as much.
TD asked about a resident close to him who had been removed from his property three years ago due to anti-social behaviour, but he’s now been let back into the property by the housing association. SF will raise it at the next meeting with the housing association.
DH asked if the consultation on the Stewart St closure had closed. SF advised that the consultation had closed, but they are still happy to take feedback through the community policing team, as its proposed closure is still some way off.
- GA raised the issue of the co-location of House of Gods Hotel and the Spires Aparthotel with Homeless Project Scotland on Glassford St.
Despite extensive emails to Glasgow City Council Planning Departments including the ‘Leader of the Council’ GA advised there has been no reply to his MCTCC”s emails about the planning application. Cllr Braat has advised he also asked for updates from Glasgow City Council Planning Dept, also not receiving a reply noting his regret and unsatisfactory lack of action from the Council Officers.
To our knowledge there remains no planning application lodged by the property owner, nor operator Homeless Project Scotland for change of use of the building, despite GCC advising should have been received by 31st March.
AM advised that there is still some ambiguity about the owners longer term plans for the building, but does know that the planning officers are working through the issues. GA stated that there are ongoing issues with people queuing outside the House of Gods hotel with people waiting for the soup kitchen - often extending between 20-40 person deep down Glassford St some nights. There have been confrontations with the HoG security as their patrons try to access/egress the premises.
GA received agreement from the Community Council for him to email Glasgow CEO a formal complaint from MC&T Community concerns regarding non action, lack of response and communication from Council Officers.
JR raised the issue of drug taking in the residential car park on Albion St. Despite the residents having spent thousands of pounds on security measures, they were still getting access. In addition, he’s observed people trying to steal bicycles parked in the racks on the corner of Argyle St and Glassford St. SF advised that they give as much attention to all areas as they can when they’re on patrol. Inspector Watters has recently introduced a violence reduction unit, which has been very successful, and have been deployed in the city centre.
GA raised the issue youths causing problems for passers by and rickshaw drivers around the city centre. The police are aware of the issues, and are increasing patrols around the Buchanan St and St Enoch areas.
Ward Councillors’ Reports - Angus Millar
Angus advised that Cllr Bolander is returning to full fitness and hopes to see her soon, as she is now back at work. He has made inquiries with the relevant department about the bollards on John St, as they could be used as weapons, and will respond at a future meeting. He also advised that the next date for a community councillor walkabout with the elected members is to be set - he had had a successful recent meeting with Gary the other day, and Gary thanked him for his time.
On the subject of the city centre strategy, Angus will arrange for officers to come to the May meeting to deliver a presentation on the strategy, focussing on the Merchant City and Trongate area.
Regarding busking, the city centre strategy team will bring a paper to the next available committee meeting on the outcome of the consultation, and what the next steps are. He hopes there will be a draft paper to discuss at our May meeting. Angus advised that Glasgow’s consultation was based on the approach taken by Edinburgh City Council, however Edinburgh eventually concluded that bylaws weren’t the way forward. Furthermore, the Scottish Government believe it can be addressed using existing legislation. CM will follow up, as he’s our liaison on the challenges posed by busking.
Planning
Proposal of application Notices
Reference: 24/00160/PAN Community Cnl: Merchant City & Trongate
Address: 86 - 90 Maxwell Street/40 Fox Street Glasgow
Proposal: Demolition of buildings and erection of hotel/short-stay apartments and associated ancillary development
Reference: 24/00765/PAN Community Cnl: Merchant City & Trongate
Address: Site Bounded By High Street/George Street/Nicholas Street/ Shuttle Street GlasgowProposal: Erection of purpose-built student accommodation with ground floor Class 1A with associated landscaping, amenity, access and other ancillary works.
Angus reminded us that SG10 of the city’s development plan has specific guidance on the over concentration of student accommodation, and this should always be mentioned in planning submissions.
Planning Applications 28 March to 30 April 2024
Internal alterations - 5 Bell Street Glasgow G1 1NU
Ref. No: 24/00680/LBA | Received date: Fri 08 Mar 2024 | Status: Pending - Consideration
Display of various illuminated and non-illuminated signage - Site Bounded By Trongate/ Wilson St/Brunswick St/Hutcheson Street/ Candleriggs Glasgow
Ref. No: 24/00817/ADV | Received date: Fri 22 Mar 2024 | Status: Pending - Consideration
Installation of telecommunications equipment upgrade and associated works - 30 Bell Street Glasgow
Ref. No: 24/00993/LBA | Received date: Wed 10 Apr 2024 | Status: Pending - Consideration
Display of signage. - 68 Miller Street City Centre Glasgow
Ref. No: 24/00888/ADV | Received date: Tue 02 Apr 2024 | Status: Pending - Consideration
Installation of advertising flagpoles (2no) and canopy (1no) and vinyl to front of premises. - 18 Montrose Street Glasgow G1 1RE
Ref. No: 24/00214/ADV | Received date: Tue 30 Jan 2024 | Status: Pending - Consideration
Installation of plant to roof - 208 Ingram Street Glasgow G1 1DG[ ](https://publicaccess.glasgow.gov.uk/online-applications/centralDistribution.do?caseType=Application&keyVal=SBO6OLEXHUL00
Ref. No: 24/00975/FUL | Received date: Tue 09 Apr 2024 | Status: Pending - Consideration
External alterations to listed building - installation of plant - 208 Ingram Street Glasgow G1 1DG
Ref. No: 24/00976/LBA | Received date: Tue 09 Apr 2024 | Status: Pending - Consideration | Case Type: Planning Application
Questions on Planning matters
TD asked if there had been any application made relating to 103 Hutcheson St, as they are expecting to start work on the roof soon, as soon as the application is approved - there will be scaffolding on Garth St and part of Glassford St. He will follow up with the building’s factors.
RN asked about the gap site on Ingram St. Peter advised that this was the proposed site of the Merchant City Park. The planning authority had given permission for 109 flats to be built in February 2023, but the application was called in by the Scottish Government over a year ago. We are still awaiting the report from the official reporter, before deciding on the next steps. DH had written the original business plan for the MCP project, but that would need to be updated, if the application was finally rejected by the reporter.
There was some discussion about the existing noise from the Old Fruitmarket, and the consenus was that there was no way the proposed flats could be sufficiently soundproofed. CS pointed out that he can hear the bass from Brunswick St, in the form of heavy vibrations.
TM asked about planning requirements for an air conditioning unit, as one of the retail units on Saltmarket has installed one without any permission. He’s asked Cllr Braat to investigate, but Tam agreed to follow up as well. It was confirmed that planning permission is required for an air-conditioning unit.
GA raised the ongoing issues with Airbnb, and the number of short term lets being used for that purpose. It is still the case that properties in shared closes will not get planning permission, and that to use a flat as a short term let it needs a licence, which needs planning permission. GA mentioned that he’s made several objections, but has heard nothing back. Angus will confirm what the correct process is. Ultimately, those impacted need to make a planning enforcement complaint in order for the planning team to take action.
Licensing
Only item to report was the proposed conversion of what was Doner Haus/Airpostel on Bell St to a restaurant showing live sports. Mairi Miller from GCC has previously advised Tam that because there was a historic licence, the Licensing Board has no obligation to advise MCTCC of changes of venue.
Friends of Ramshorn
DH recently took part in the Necropolis tour, which is very well organised; they have health and safety briefings, the volunteers wear uniform, and so on. He is planning a meeting of Friends of Ramshorn on 29 May. DF has agreed to work on the Friends’ website.
Litter Pick
The litter pick took place on 13 April. There were 20 volunteers on the day, who between them collected 30 bags of refuse. The team were assisted by G3 Litter Free and by Glasgow City Council. DH hopes to do a litter pick quarterly, starting in late summer, but stated that this would require the purchase of our own Litter Picking equipment. GA stated that this could be done with DG Funding. It was agreed to submit a DGF application. NM suggested that we approach GCC to get a litter collecting hub in the area. Angus advised there is no specific budget, but could apply to the Community Council discretionary fund, or to the Area Partnership.
Any other Business
JR suggested that the money for the mural on the Social Hub Wall should come from the developers, rather than being supported by GCC Council Tax payers. RWS advised him, and everyone else, to make their opinions known by completing the survey.
DF raised the issue that the initial emails sent about the mural consultation events did not contain times. GA explained that this was because when the first set of leaflets were produced, they did not have the details
JR raised an issue about the poor condition of the paving stones on Candleriggs, along with the fact that some been spray painted as part of a maintenance process, making the streetscape unsightly. He also raised the issue about cars parking in the cycle lane on King Street, despite the presence of raised segregation. He suggested that the segregation should be made higher; however, Angus advised that these are a standard height, to match the kerbs elsewhere.
RN asked about the plans for the remaining blocks on Wilson St. Outline planning permission was given originally, but the market has changed since then. Drum (the developer) is currently waiting to see how the first phase settles in before making plans for the remainder of the site; however, they would need to bring forward detailed plans and get planning permission before they could proceed. EM pointed out that the Drum website still has a video showing all the proposals. Tam reiterated that the rest of the project is on hold, and when/if that changes, MCTCC will publicise it and comment in the usual way.
CM asked about blocked drains on King St, as it makes the cycle lane unusable. Angus advised that the council tend to be reactive rather than proactive, but he will follow up.
Date of Next Meeting
Tuesday 28th May 2024 at 6.30pm
Friends of Ramshorn Graveyard Public Meeting, 29th May 2024
Come along to the City Chambers at 6.30pm on Tuesday 29th May for an update on the Friends of Ramshorn Group. Find out about their latest plans and objectives for the Ramshorn Graveyeard, and their action plan to try and achieve these. The group is always looking for Volunteers and new members, so if you'd like to make a difference to this haven of peace and tranquility in the Merchant City, come along and get involved.
Meeting from 6.30pm in Committee Room 1, 2nd Floor.
Social Hub Mural - Still Time to Have your say
Still time to have your say on the new mural at the social hub! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfzVjZ-W93hTCsZrkzQmNFTN67xB_nw2RE8MCbPk_DDxN-d1Q/viewform
Take a walk - Mural Trail, Tuesday 7th May at 6pm
Murals of the Merchant City - Tuesday 7th May at 6pm
Join Walking Tours of Glasgow - Explore the existing murals around the Merchant City and Trongate for inspiration on what should be on the wall of Social Hub.
Email [email protected] to book
Meeting Minutes, 26 March 2024
Attendees:
Community Council Members-Gary Atkinson GA, David Cowan DC, Peter Hayman PH, David Hughes DH, Gordon Millar GM, Colin McKay CMc, Rosalind Wardley-Smith RWS
.Attended Online Alice Cowan.
Residents TD, DF, TK, BL and CS.
Elected Representatives - Cllr Philip Braat and Cllr Angus Millar
Apologies: Tam Coyle, Scott Thornton, Niall McColl, Cllr Eva Bolander, PC Sean McFadden
1. Welcome by the Chair
Gary Atkinson welcomed everyone to the March meeting.
2. Minutes of the last meeting (Tuesday 27th February)
The Minutes were proposed as a true representation of the meeting by David Hughes, seconded by David Cowan. Adopted.
3. Police Report
PC Yibram Yousak and PC Angela Stephen deputised for PC Sean McFadden who provided a monthly report including statistics and update on new Scotland ‘Hate Crime & Public Order Act’ in force from 1st April
Statistics - 24th Feb–23rd Mar 2024 - A total of 124 crimes were reported, 66 detected, 58 undetected.
Increase of assaults on police officers reported in Merchant City area, and shoplifting thefts continue to be very prevalent across city and Scotland.
Training exercise 13th March - over 100 emergency personnel (Police, Ambulance, Coastguard, RNLI and Fire & Rescue) involved in a pre-planned scenario at Albert Bridge, River Clyde, Glasgow Green, to test readiness in responding to a realistic incident involving casualties.
Police Scotland continue to work with communities, people, businesses, and other partner organisations to reduce crime and anti-social behavior. Drug misuse incidents within the close of 107 Ingram Street.
Action: Police Scotland looking to complete a Crime Prevention Survey to establish what exactly can be done to prevent such issues at this address. Increased incidents reported on Ingram Street which will be targeted by ‘plain cloths’ and uniformed police activity.
Main focus on engagement to address criminality is through public health approach – 3 main strands are poverty, mental health and drug abuse.
Formal consultation on the Police Scotland Estates Strategy, involving Stewart Street Police Station now closed, comments can still be shared through community police team.
New annual 2024-25 Policing Strategy plan has been presented by new Chief Constable Jo Farrell to Scottish Police Authority on 21st March, which further strengthens Community Policing Model – link below for interested parties.
Questions from the floor
Q: DF and B shared had witnessed regular drug activity within Brunswick Street Courtyard. Reported disturbing noise at 2am each night near to Blackfriars Court. Also witnessed during a Saturday too. Other residents reported the same issue. Users braking security through underground car park. Residents have been threatened by drug users doing deals and using. May be regular dealers and users in this area.
Increased activity referenced in Glassford Street, Saltmarket area, rear of Ramshorn and High Street with reported with drug paraphernalia left lying around making areas unsafe.
Action: (Police Scotland)PC Yousak will liaise with PC McFadden with a view to increase targeted monitoring of these areas and will seek proposed additional activity to combat such increased activity.
Action: (Police Scotland) Police Scotland to review public CCTV camera located at corner of High Street for any relevant footage
Action: (GA) MCTCC to arrange separate follow meeting with PC McFadden on 9th April.
(quarterly meeting with Insp Watters scheduled for early May)
Action: (ALL) Police are actively involved and further remind residents to continue reporting calling 101
Cllr Braat – asked specifically about Glassford Street given recent Homeless facility in use.
Action: (Police Scotland) Requires focused action as received comments re increased drug needles left discarded and further reports of people being ‘unwell’ (physically vomiting next to adjacent business entrances)
Action: (Police Scotland) Police Scotland to report such actions and comment to GCC Planning Dept.
Cllr Braat asked for update on e-bike riders in City Centre. Witnessed cyclists driving/riding roads and pavements in wrong direction.
GA shared recent live example of Deliveroo driver in England assaulting a customer upon delivery resulting in customers Thumb being bitten off. No right of recompense as Deliveroo state rider is not an employee, nor does the rider herself have insurance, so left with reattached thumb, but unable to carry out his profession as a plumber.
BL shared similar incident occurred in Glasgow too.
Action: (MCTCC) to continue lobbying Local, Scottish and UK Government for a Registration Scheme with Registration number printed on each rider carry bag. Keep on ‘latent MCTCC Agenda’
Action: Cllr Miller shared concern on Glassford Street, as spoken with local businesses affected by issues on Glassford Street and the current homeless and drug activity.
GA shared recent written complaint and adverse actions from owner of Spires Apartments
Action: Complaint will be shared with Insp Watters having tabled said report at meeting.
GA & ST shared attended consultation on the proposed Collegelands development (other side of railway line/Aldi) and Police Scotland reported huge drug activity and prostitution in that area which may be encroaching on to High Street and beyond.
Homeless Project Scotland – GA advised received communication from GCC emphasizing owners have been requested to raise a retrospective planning application for change of use by end of March.
Action: (MCTCC) Cllr Miller confirmed communication and will be following update on Planning process in April and then we can assess what future actions to be taken.
RWS / Cristian - raised recent activity on corner and walkway up Glassford Street, and been approached by homeless people looking for donations.
Action: RWS to liaise with M&S to seek thoughts and their comment.
CCTV - PC Yousak advised City Centre CCTV was not manned 24hrs a day now, outside of 3pm–3am, cameras will be left recording but in fixed positions.
4. Ward Councillor Reports
Cllr Angus Millar
PC Angela Stephen raised issue of increased graffiti in the area and across the city. Cllr Miller shared discussion raised with Area Partnership Meeting previous week acknowledging the huge spike of activity since Covid reopening. Police have agreed to liaise with GCC and look to work with youth associations to focus diversion of areas, with new projects targeted areas for such creativity.
Candleriggs – installation of pavement bollards now completed. GA thanked both Councilors for their support in this action been completed along with gully cleaning and replacement of broken road setts.
Glasgow Film Office meeting – producing a ‘Code of Practice’ for filming within the city centre. GFO will be contacting Community Councils to consult for compilation of report.
Action: (MCTCC) to reach out to GFO and collaborate on said Code of Practice.
Cllr Philip Braat
Cllr Braat referenced recent communication from Police Scotland regarding Facial Recognition Cameras.
Action: MCTCC will follow up with Insp Watters
Graffiti – was raised and was a large part of the Area Partnership Meeting. Lise Fisher in attendance and explained restrictions of dealing with non-council owned properties. DF shared graffiti in his area, including rubbish bins.
Action: (ALL) – please report each incident with Council via ‘App’/Online.
DF asked if allowed to remove graffiti himself, and advised seek agreement from building owner. Cllr Braat shared example of a utility building owner not allowing GCC to clean.
GFO – Include who/how/what ‘enforcement’ would look like to ‘safeguard’ residents daily way of life.
Potential Road Closure of Brunswick Street – GA thanked Cllr Braat for his assistance in identifying who was responsible for repaving the road in conjunction of the Social Hub Hotel opening.
Quoted by Ben McLeod, GM at The Social Hub - a great positive example of community working together.
Questions from the floor
Q: GA raised concern from residents regarding GCC recent announcement of proposed new parking chargeable hours.
A: Cllr Millar shared he had raised such comments with his colleagues, advising proposals were not due to start till sometime during 2025, not as misreported April 24. Following a recent GCC meeting, it was agreed further discussion and consultation to review city-centre proposals following recent comments from business and residents. Action: (Cllr Millar/MCTCC) to keep discussion point on ‘latent MCTCC Agenda’.
Q: GA asked for update on City Centre post Covid Taskforce activity.
A: Cllr Millar shared City Centre Strategy had been adopted by GCC previous week, and available to view online. The taskforce will now have a revised structure sharing data with Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, with Cllr Millar remaining Co-Chair, with the main Taskforce including 4 Sub Groups for City Centre focusing on engagement to tackle tangible issues.
City Operations (ie cleansing, road issues etc)
Night time economy
Transport (working with transport partners re night time issues, and people’s attitudes to city centre)
Development
DH requested if possible for dedicate some time at a future Meeting for Cllr Miller to present the City Centre Strategy. Cllr Millar proposed he and I meet to review and structure such a presentation as in it’s current format would take a lot of time to present. Action: (GA) MCTCC to arrange mutually convenient date to meet Cllr Millar.
Q: CMc asked for update on Busking Code of Conduct
A: Cllr Millar confirmed ‘paper’ remained in progress but nothing to report as yet. Action:(MCTCC) to keep on ‘latent MCTCC Agenda’.
Q: Cristian raised Car Parking proposals to acknowledge ‘people’ working and attending theatre.
RWS outlined residents don’t always have parking nor parking permits. Also consideration to be given on Electric Charging Points within parking areas.
Q: Is there any Data that could be shared with MCTCC?
Action: (Cllr Millar) Cllr Millar shared GCC Planning guidance outlines new developments should market new flats/accommodation as non-car parking. Such items will be raised at further Parking discussions.
Action: Cllr Millar also agreed to share Data Deck from partner Glasgow Chamber of Commerce once revised.
Q: Tommy - Stainless steel bollards on John Street in a dangerous repair – could be used as a weapon.
A: Action: Cllr Millar agreed to take action forward
Q: GA – could planting plan include protection on corner of Ingram/High Street (Sapporo Restaurant)
A: Action: Cllr Millar to review on City Centre Greenery Location Plans.
5. Planning
Peter Hayman circulated a list of planning applications that affected the MCTCC area. Outlined concern over proposed Student Accommodation at 50 Argyle Street (old bank building which currently Café Nero occupies)
6. Licensing
GA confirmed attendance at recent Greater Glasgow Licensing Forum, raising concern of the City Centre CCTV not being manned between 3am and 3pm, especially when Licensing Terminal Hours have been extended, more so those venues within the late night economy terminal hours of 3am and 4am. Major risk of serious injury/assault not been aided by active CCTV for police usage, which also may result major reputational damage should a serious adverse incident occurs.
Cllr Millar outlined these changes occurred last year, thought CCTV was covered from 4-4, but heard it’s actually 3-3. Cllr Millar outlined shift pattern can be amended should Police Scotland request by agreement from both GCC and Police Scotland.
Action: (MCTCC) to discuss with Inspector Watters at next quarterly meeting.
7. Merchant City Park
No updates recorded, still awaiting Reporter recommendation.
8. White Wall for Street Art
GA, TC, RWS met representatives from SWG3 Street Art Team and The Social Hub to take a potential Street Art installation on the gable end wall on the new Social Hub building.
Ongoing discussions are underway to seek financial grant support from the Glasgow Mural Trail, Area Partnership budget. Agreement reached with Social Hub building owner, for a potential new mural installation. Consultation will commence in April, and fundraising is underway. SWG3 to speak with 3 potential artists for initial sketches ideas to share with the project partners.
Action: (MCTCC) Cllr Millar suggested we contact City Centre Regeneration Team for advice and support as they oversee the City Centre Mural Trail.
9. Litter Pick – Saturday 13th April
Meet at Ramshorn Graveyard.**
DH overseeing this project, MCTCC will participate in the City Annual Litter Pick, which will be on Saturday 13th April 2024. Separate details and actions will be communicated to all and wider audience to seek attendees to get involved.
10. Treasurer’s Report
GM, Treasurer reported receipt of £500 from latest film company, giving a current balance of £10,200 inclusive of £2700 community grants awaiting confirmation.
New MCTCC Bank Account with RBS has now been set up, and agreed signatures provided to the bank.
11. Grant Giving Scheme
Date agreed to meet Impact Arts on Wednesday 3rd April – (DH & GA)
12. Friends of Ramshorn Graveyard
DH met with Deputy Chair of the Glasgow Necropolis, who undertake 35 tours along with bespoke tours this year. DH would like to target a date next year for tours of Ramshorn Graveyard with much work to undertake prior to a start date. Action: DH will be preparing an Action Plan which will be presented to the Ramshorn Group.
13. Area Partnership / Website Upgrade
DH gave a short overview on Area Partnership Meeting discussion points. Also highlighted a potential Area Partnership Discretionary grant fund application for website development.
Action: Agreement granted by MCTCC for DH to progress application. Proposed by DH, seconded by DC & RWS.
14. AoCB
PH shared Cycle Route from south city way is still incomplete, so unable to update – will defer to MMM.
No other AoCB raised, therefore Chair thanked everyone for attending and meeting closed 2020hrs
Date of next meeting:
Tuesday 30th April 2024 at 6:30pm