Meetings

DRAFT MCTCC Full Meeting Minutes, 28^th April 2026

Attendance

Community Cllrs	Scott Thornton; Niall McColl, Ross Naismith, David Hughes, Gordon Millar; Gary Atkinson, Ros Atkinson, David Cowan; Alice Cowan; Peter Hayman
Councillors	Bailie Christy Mearns, Cllr Philip Braat
Residents	PP, TD, CD, NM
Online (Zoom)	EM, JR, GF, AC, TT, AM
Police Scotland	Inspector Lisa McDonald, PC Chris Convery

 

1. Welcome and Apologies

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Cllr Millar, Cllr Bolander, Gregor McIntryre (from MP Office), Rachel Angus, EM

2. Minutes of Previous Meeting on 24^th February 2026

Adoption proposed by David Hughes and seconded by Alice Cowan.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

3. Police Report

PC Convery gave the latest crime statistics: from 1-28 April, there were 122 crimes reported in our area of which 51 were detected and 71 undetected.  These figures may change as enquiries continue. They have been monitoring specific streets in our area at the public’s request.

PC Convery noted the dispersal zone has not led to an increase in crime around the border areas.  There were the same number of crimes as last month.

Dispersal Zone

Inspector Lisa McDonald reported how the police have been implementing the new Dispersal Zone in Glasgow city centre.  They have issued 438 warnings with 43 arrests (14 of which involved other offences) since the zone was introduced on the 20th of March.

They are reviewing this weekly and checking if there is any impact on nearby areas. They also have fortnightly meetings with organisations such as The Refugee Council and Barnardo’s.

Police Questions

Cllr Braat asked if there was any discussion about extending the 3-month trial period of the Dispersal Zone. It will be reviewed; it was noted how the World Cup starts on 11^th of June until the 19^th July; then the Commonwealth Games start at the end of July into early August.

PC Convery whose beat is in the city centre has noted less crime and business owners feel the city centre is safer and there is less pilfering.

PP asked if the cctv camera on South Portland Bridge is working, PC Convery confirmed it was.

Cllr Braat noted the media is reporting daily how retail crime has risen and that security guards have been told not to intervene when they spot shoplifting. Lisa McDonald noted that Glasgow Police investigate any value of crime. Other forces in the UK may not respond to crimes of a low value.

Scott tried to call 101 today after observing drug dealing but the wait time was so long he gave up. He wondered what crimes are being missed due to call wait times.

TD reported to the police that around a dozen cars had been going down Candleriggs, around Sunday afternoon, making excessive noise, so much so that it upset pets and children. PC Convery will follow up with businesses.

Scott noted that cctv cameras are currently monitored from 3pm to 3am. Bailie Christy Mearns said money was voted on to increase funds to move to 24 hour monitoring. Niall and Gary visited the cctv headquarters last week. It is understood they are in the process of hiring new staff.

 

Football Celebrations

Scott and Gary had a meeting with the police last week.  Regarding the football fan celebrations, a meeting is to be held with a representative from Calton CC, Louise Hamilton from GCC Events Team and the head of GCC;’s Public Relations. However, Chief Executive Susan Millar declined to meet us due to being involved in her work as the Returning Officer for the Scottish Parliamentary Elections on the 7th of May.

Scott asked if there had been any licence applications from Celtic or Rangers for holding an event.  Cllrs will make enquiries.  GCC CEO Susan Millar has had 10 meetings with these football clubs.  The police have the emergency powers to close pubs and off-licence premises.  Bailie Mearns brought this up at the meeting she arranged some months ago however the view then was that the threshold may not be met during football fan celebrations.

Cllr Braat understands the community needs to have this resolved. He and Bailie Christy Mearns will continue to press for a solution.

She said there is a wider problem that Glasgow has with needing alcohol to enjoy events. Scott noted a police report from Aberdeen which showed that crime increased when licensing hours were extended substantially.

E-bikes

The police have been stopping e-bike riders and discussing road safety issues.

Gordon has seen groups of teenagers with large electric bikes acting recklessly. There were other people going to and from, work in excess of 30mph. The area near the Clutha Bar on Clyde St is so congested with traffic, pedestrians and cyclists it is only a matter of time before someone gets hurts.

Niall McColl noted that the signage for bike riders at the junction is misleading. Scott recalled how MCTCC raised concerns over a year ago but was told the junction would be fixed once the relevant Avenues projects were complete.

4. University of Strathclyde Social Innovation Cluster (Manish Joshi)

This was cancelled due to the speaker’s illness but will hopefully be scheduled soon.

5. Elected Member Reports

Cllr Philip Braat noted there have been discussions between the football clubs and GCC. He understands MCTCC are liaising with Calton CC about this also.  He would like to see a long-term solution, ideally with a designated venue and regulated licence and security.  Businesses and residents should not feel threatened.

He will continue to seek to resolve the early collection of glass waste by private refuse companies which has caused a nuisance to residents in Ingram Street.

The deep cleans have been going around Ward 10 and more suggestions are invited.

There is a walkabout organised on the morning of 19th of May starting at St Enoch Square.

Clyde Street Works

There is a Maxwell St / Fox St demolition notice got a planned hotel/serviced apartments development. . Ross objected to this planning application last summer. The 19-storey application was rejected by the GCC Planning Committee in November. The developers have appealed and a Scottish Government Reporter will visit the site. before making a decision, Ross was invited but will not attend as his views on the application are on record already.

Cllr Braat has passed on our concerns regarding the fake carpark/derelict site on Clyde Street to the head of the planning department but has not heard back.

The enforcement notice ordered compliance by the 8th of April. GCC say they have been unable to identify who owns the land. Scott noted this was reported over a year ago and believes GCC should go ahead and clear the site up.

Recycling Bins Not Being Emptied

Gordon reported the Metropole Building’s large recycle bins are full and cannot wait for another month to be emptied. He finds it concerning how recycling is what we want to encourage but it is the one part of the cleansing system which does not work very well, whereas general waste is collected regularly. People are having to put recycling materials into general waste.

About 3 months ago MCTCC requested additional glass recycling bins which we are still waiting for. There is a red glass recycling bin in Howard St (introduced following MCTCC’s request).

Scott noted that we asked if bins could be located on private land, such as NCP and Network Rail but were refused. David Hughes noted that there was a website which showed where recycling facilities were located.

Peter Hayman noted the bins on Garth St are meant to be emptied every 8-days but it is now done so on a 16-day basis. The bins are overflowing before the end of the first week.

Niall reported that some buildings do not have any recycling facilities and must use the Bell St recycling area which is not large enough. The bins are emptied on Tuesdays but are full by Friday. He raised this issue some years ago but there was no response from GCC.

Gary wondered if there is duplication of street cleaning between the deep clean teams and other departments.  David Hughes noted the community clean teams are also making a difference such as the Garment Factory and the last litter pick organised by Rachel.

Cllr Braat has had reports of similar problems in other areas and agreed this was not a recent issue. It is now happening more frequently and he asked Gordon and Niall to email him with details. He is looking for a sustainable solution to getting recycling bins emptied on a regular basis and will enquire about the underlying cause.

Bailie Christy Mearns Report

There has been an update for the 7 charities based at 103 Trongate. They have secured funding from GCC and Glasgow Life to support rental costs until March 2027. A framework for continued dialogue has been put in place and part of this is to consider taking the building out of the City Property portfolio.

Provisional Plans have been proposed to pedestrianise Union St to which she has been asked to be involved should this find wider support. She has asked for a masterplan to be produced for transformative change since the fire which destroyed the building at junction with Union St. This may include other roads such as Mitchell Street, Miller St and Candleriggs which could be closed off to traffic.

She has been asking for better lighting under the Argyle St rail bridge, aka Hielanman’s Umbrella, as the area needs improvement. There was a road upgrade undertaken there recently however it is felt that it should have been more comprehensive. She is talking to the Network Rail Strategy Team about this.

She has taken note of the conversation on recycling in general and will feed back.  She was contacted by group ‘Hope In Place’ based in Virginia St. They have completed a feasibility study of the local area and want to initiate greening projects in the city centre.

She has been contacted by the Clutha Vaults about opportunities near to the river during the Commonwealth Games or in front of the Briggait.

Questions for Bailie Mearns

Scott has observed a large amount of litter next to the Clyde riverbank between Saltmarket and the Clutha junction. This has been reported previously to GCC. Bailie Christy Mearns recalled there was funding allocated to cleaning this area in the Avenues project. David Hughes recalled at the presentation that what they spoke about was mainly cutting back vegetation.

A resident asked if ‘plug-in solar panels’ will be allowed on flat balconies; these have become popular in Europe. Gordon noted the lack of use of solar panels in our area and others. This would imply there may be regulation restrictions but it is not known what these are.

The Planning Dept. emailed Ross about the Ropeworks Lane application (Pipeworks). Objections have been submitted and he has been assured they will be collated on the GCC Planning Portal. He has been in contact with Bailie Mearns about the delay in the general planning process.

Ross agreed with Bailie Mearns about his disappointment at the outcome of the Hielanman’s Umbrella. The Gordon St and Union St fire site deserves a quality replacement .

A civic engineer reached out to MCTCC about 18 months ago for Virginia Court however this stalled. He remains open to discussing ideas.

On Ingram St and Candleriggs he asked for a meeting with Sustainable Transport. He and Gary went to see them about another matter and they spoke about Candleriggs. He would like to know what the plans are to complete the project.

Sustainable Transport went ahead with the Ingram St /Queen St roadworks. David Hughes noted Candleriggs was mentioned at the AP meeting which they said would be completed with money from another source.

Ross welcomed her comments about traffic in the city centre, MCTCC was not consulted and it has not seemed to make the situation any better.

Rachel is applying to GCC for a contribution from the Minor Improvement Fund to tidy up and improve street furniture in the Merchant City and surrounds.  She is concerned about the pavement being used to store goods, causing obstructions.  She will be attending the AP meeting this Thursday.

6. Follow-Up from Previous Meetings

There were no matters this month.

7. Local Place Plan (LPP)

David Hughes submitted the MCTCC’s LPP to neighbouring CCs for reply by the 21st of April. Tricia Fort from Calton CC, and Laurieston CC replied with complimentary comments. Blythswood and Broomielaw CC sent us their LPP to which he has replied. Scottish Enterprise, GCC City Property, Artisan Real Estate and Strathclyde University have not responded.

He attended the City Development Plan 2 (CDP2) meeting on the 31st of March. He, and other CC representatives were disappointed when told they could not share details of what it contained as it had not been submitted to the Committee.

Michael Ward, NRS Team Manager Planning (Spatial Strategy) sent an email that our LPP would be included in CDP2 and would be allowed comment on this. However, in an online presentation, David was informed that we had missed the deadline for this. He has since learned it will be included.

The City Development Plan (CDP1) was published in 2017 and updated 5 years later He had asked if the same timetable for CDP2 would be used to publish framework documents and was told the current frameworks would remain. It is not clear then where our LPP, and others, will be fitted in.

8. Planning

Ross Naismith noted the planting of 48 mature trees, taking the total to 60, in George Square.

The Old Wynd. Osborne St (Dominus) site has been sold.

The GCC planning process is taken too long from submittal to a decision, in some cases up to a year. This leads to developers selling.

He is expecting Custom House Quay to be approved soon, likewise King St Carpark.

On the PBSA site at the top of High St and George St, he was told a decision has been made but not published as yet.

He had a positive meeting about the Parnie St area regeneration with Rachel, Cllr Millar and Richard Watson from City Property. He has submitted ideas following this meeting.

He and Scott are looking to open dialogue with Praxis to see if they would be looking to improve the Stockwell St, Howard St and St Enoch Square.

There are 3 things going on with trees, separate from the Avenues Project. Rachel Smith is dealing with the trees at the far end of Ingram St. He has spoken to NRS group about where new tree planting might be possible. He is looking to try and have trees planted along Argyle St, up High St, Mercat Cross and Duke St and Ingram St.

9. Licensing

Gary Atkinson notified MCTCC about licence application No. GC278: –

Provisional Premises Licence – Nido by Nonnas Kitchen, Unit 1, 5 Candleriggs Square, Glasgow, G1 1TQ – Open to 1am, off sales from 11am to 10pm. Objections by 21st May.

Scott reported that TRNSMT application to show Scotland vs Morocco which may finish as late as 2am on 20th of June. This has been objected to along with Calton CC (following the meeting it was confirmed that the Licensing Board would hear the application on 20 May and MCTCC has been invited to send a representative).

GCC gave permission to extend licensing hours during the World Cup for premises that regularly show sports.

A resident noted a public house on Candleriggs had live music on the 19th of April, with the doors open until after 11pm. The noise team were contacted but did not respond.

10. External Groups

David Cowan sent reports about recent meetings of the Joint Action Group (JAG) and a formative meeting of a new group looking have greater representation of CCs.

11. Friends of Ramshorn Graveyard (FoRG)

David Hughes has booked 46 tours. For this Summer He has trained 4 new guides. They have increased tour days to include Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday mornings.

The Fusion Fund has granted FoRG £200 which covered the cost of printing 6,000 leaflets for which he thanked Niall for his assistance. He shall be delivering these.  They have a new banner on the graveyard gates. The tours are available on Eventbrite or by email:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ramshorn-graveyard-tour-tickets-1986717405240?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

tours@ramshorngraveyard.org

12. Treasurers Report

Gordon Millar (Treasurer) reported the MCTC bank balance at 28/4/26 is £9,640.59

No expenses in the month

No outstanding Income, though we expect some film revenue in the next few months.

We are holding £500 in reserve to pay towards the mural on the side of the Social Hub.

13. AOCB

Filming for the Sky TV series Meantime will take place in June In Bell St and Parnie St.

 

14. Date of Next Meeting:

Tuesday 26^th May 2026 – 6.30-8.30pm in City Chambers.

DRAFT MCTCC Full Meeting Minutes, 31^st March2026

Attendance

Community Councillors	Scott Thornton; Gordon Millar; David Cowan; Alice Cowan; Associate Community Councillor Peter Hayman
GCC Guests	Lise Fisher, David McDonald, John Campbell and Chandra Pollok
Residents	PP; GF, SJ, JM, TD
Online (Zoom)	Ross Naismith, Rachel Angus, EM, JR
Police Scotland	PC Gentjan Rapi, PC Chris Dixon
Other	GF

1. Welcome and Apologies

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Cllr Bolander, Bailie Christy-Mearns, Cllr Braat, Gary Atkinson, Roz Atkinson, Gregor McIntryre from MP Office, David Hughes and Niall McColl.

2. Minutes of Previous Meeting on 24th February 2026

Adoption proposed by Alice Cowan and seconded by Gordon Millar.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

3. Police Report

PC Dixon gave the latest crime statistics: from the 1st to the 31st of March, there were 118 crimes reported in our area of which 53 were detected and 65 undetected.  These figures may change as their enquiries continue. They have been monitoring specific streets in our area at the public’s request.

Dispersal Zone

PC Rapi reported how the police have been implementing the new Dispersal Zone law in Glasgow city centre. If there is a group of two or more people congregating and are suspected of being a threat to the public or likely to commit a crime, the Police have the power to issue them with a warning and / or tell them not to come to the dispersal zone area for the next 24 hours. If they are seen again in the dispersal zone during this time they can be arrested and taken into custody and a larger time ban imposed.

CP said that 104 people dispersed and 15 were arrested in the first 4 days of the new law.  The police believe they needed these powers due to the number of crimes reported to them. A resident reported this has made the city centre safer and relaxed due to there being less people loitering, drinking or taking drugs. The new law has a trial period of 3 months and it is hoped this will have a long-term effect in the reduction of crime.

Scott reminded attendees that he and Gary, Vice-Chairman, regularly meet police at beat and Inspector level. Issues to be raised at these meetings can be passed to them whenever they arise.

4. NRS Liaison Panel – Needle Bin Statistics Review – Presentation

Lise Fisher (Neighbourhood Liaison Manager), John Campbell and David McDonald (GCC Alcohol and Drug Dependency Section) gave a presentation on the report on the number of needles deposited in the needle bins.

The needle bins were a multi-partnership project between NRS, Street Cleaning and the NHS.  The locations were chosen based on where the largest number of needles were found. The first needle bin was in New Wynd in May 2023.  Additional bins were added to Old Wynd and Adams Court Lane, near to St Enochs Square. NRS attended a MCTCC meeting at that time.

Lise Fisher explained how the statistics gave the approximate number of needle bin deposits: New Wynd, 2000, Old Wynd 1000 and in Adams Court Lane 500 pieces of injecting equipment and paraphernalia.

John Campbell noted there has been a change in drug usage in the city centre, such as a move away from heroin to cocaine. This means that drug users were now injecting themselves more frequently. The needle bins have made the community safer, not least in reducing people’s exposure to discard needles.

David McDonald said they cannot draw a conclusion if The Thistle Service has reduced the number of discarded needles. However, they have overseen over 10,000 injections at the Hunter St service and has helped over 150 intravenous users. This has its own needle disposal facilities of course.

He hoped this would change their behaviour to seek clean and sterile conditions with medical supervision which should help with their health and wellbeing.  More statistics are available on the Thistle website:

https://glasgowcity.hscp.scot/sdcf

5. Glasgow City Business Improvement District – Presentation

Chandra Pollok (Project Manager, Let’s Go Glasgow Business Improvement District) has been working for one year and is pleased to launch the Glasgow Business Improvement District (BID) in April.  Membership is open to businesses whose property has a rateable value (RV) of over £100k. The forecast investment is £14m over the 5-year membership term through its 1.5% levy. The BID can be joined on a voluntary basis.

Chandra Pollok explained how the BID offers additional services to businesses. BID is working with 424 businesses. The website includes a business plan which can be viewed or downloaded at https://letsgoglasgow.com/

The BID business plan priorities are:-

• Cleaner – They have a dedicated cleaning team who will respond quickly to requests for graffiti removal
• Safety – They will have street stewards to monitor the area around businesses
• Vibrant – Marketing and Promotion campaigns
• Empowered – Create new forums of shared expertise to tackle business challenges

They are now recruiting a team to run the BID and will be posting updates on social media.

There are over 33 BIDs across Scotland, there has been one in Edinburgh for 16 years, and Dundee has just established one.

6. Elected Member Reports

Cllr Angus Millar has been progressing the NIF funded street trees plan. As previously reported, the money has been allocated and planning ground surveys to see if trees are suitable for planting in the Merchant City.

He has done further work on getting new signage to inhibit bird feeding by the public and investigating if there is any possible enforcement action available. A communication plan is expected to be published soon.

He has had an update about the work going in George Square and understands that 46 trees are currently being planted there. After this, the ground stonework will be laid.

Regarding the clean-up at Maxwell St and Clyde St he will contact the Planning Dept. about time taken to introduce enforcement measures.

Questions for Cllr Millar

EM enquired if there if the area around the Tron Theatre, including the clock tower and at the entrance on Chisolm St could be cleaned.

TD asked about the disruption due to the fire on Union St / Gordon St.  Cllr Millar reported GCC have been considering what to do with the site once the demolition work is complete and the area reopened. Heritage organisations are trying to chart a way forward for the site.

7. Community Engagement

Cllr Millar was asked about the situation at the 103 Trongate arts venue wherein the charities are facing a large rent increase at short notice by City Property, a GCC ALEO. He confirmed he was aware and has been making enquiries about what can be done to support the charities in this situation. He has asked if GCC can help the charities financially. He understands there are ongoing discussions.

A charity worker present noted there was a meeting about this on Thursday 26th March.  Christy Mearns offered a positive point regarding the protection of cultural and public assets. The charities form a strong function in keeping the arts alive in Glasgow and are now being leveraged to make a profit which is challenging for many.

Scott said there is a wider narrative to be had in reference to keeping the arts alive in Glasgow and the 103 building is a cultural asset in this respect. Cllr Millar understood this point.

Peter Hayman commented in the past Glasgow promoted culture and music and now it has changed, and it should consider how it could do this in the future if it put this kind of pressure on them to continue.

8. Local Place Plan

David Hughes sent his apologies due to attending a City Development Plan II briefing. He provided the following update:-

• A notification letter relating to the Draft Local Place Plan has been approved by the Merchant City & Trongate Community Council.
• The Draft Local Place Plan feedback must be received 22nd April 2026.

9. Planning

Ross Naismith gave his apologies for tonight’s meeting, and sent the following report in the meantime which Scott read out:-

1) Avenues:-

– Email to Ward Councillors, 15th January.

– Overall position.

– GS Lighting Consultant

Condition of Cambridge/ West Nile Streets.

2) Maxwell, Fox Streets/ Appeal.

MCTCC are following up on the appeal by the developer for this.

3) Parnie/ King/ Osborne Area Regeneration, proposals. Being investigated by Ross and Rachel

4) Candleriggs Upgrade, GCC/ ST postponement, email to Ward Councillors, 12th February.

5) Ingram Street and Queen Street alterations, GCC/ ST proposals, email to Ward Councillors,12th February.

6) St Enoch Square (East), Howard Street, Stockwell Place, Stockwell street regeneration.

7) High/ George, King Street CP, Custom House Quay, and Old Wynd (East) Osborne, Planning Application status.

9) Stanchions Removals, update.

10) GCC/ Deep Clean Team intervention, proposals.

11) Second Tier ‘in- ground’ Tree, proposals.

Ross and Scott have a meeting with the new director of St Enochs Shopping Centre in a few weeks.

Scott noted there has been recent application to demolish the defunct Annie Millars Pub. Comments and objections are to be submitted by 28 days from the 25th of March. On the same site the applicant plans to build small studio apartment buildings. A similar application was objected to by MCTCC several years ago.

10. Licensing

Gary sent his apologies. Scott discussed briefly the following issues:-

TRNSMT – They have lodged an application to show the Scotland vs Morrocco World Cup football game on the 19^th of June. This will be discussed at the Licensing Board on the 20th of May. MCTCC and Calton CC have objected to this.

Social Hub – Gary Atkinson and Rachel Angus had a meeting with Ben McLeod, of the Social Hub in Candleriggs, regarding to the extension of outdoor seating and sale of alcohol till 1am indoors and outdoors till 10pm.

They were assured the area would not be used for large-scale events and that noise would be kept to a minimum, not least as Social Hub themselves have guests staying on site. The Social Hub have an intention to plant more trees in the nearby area.

JR expressed concerns if an outside amplifier were installed, then other businesses will apply for this also. There was an event last year which caused disturbance and recommended that 9pm ought to the be limit for outdoor music.

11. External Groups

There was no report this month.

12. Friends of Ramshorn Graveyard

There was no report this month.

13. Treasurer’s Report

Gordon Millar (Treasurer) reported that the bank balance as of 31^st March 2026 was  £9,140.59.

£500 due from Counsels re Filming donation (money received 3 April)

£500 due to be paid to the Social Hub for the Mural contribution

Expenses in March 2026 = £369.47 These were mainly website subscriptions, postage and business cards,

14. Any Other Competent Business

Alice Cowan sent Scott details of some of the community groups in the MCTCC area.

15. Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday 28^th April 2026 – 6.30-8.30pm in City Chambers.

DRAFT MCTCC Full Meeting Minutes, 24th February 2026

Attendance

Community Councillors	Scott Thornton; Gordon Millar; Niall McColl; David Cowan; Alice Cowan; Gary Atkinson; Ros Atkinson; David Hughes; Peter Hayman
Residents	PP; JT; RE, TT (via Zoom)
Elected Representatives	Cllr Philip Braat
Police Scotland	PC Chris Convery
CWG 2026	Andy Robin, Scott MacLean and Gary Grieve
Other	GF, Gregor McIntyre from MP John Grady’s office

 

1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Cllr Millar, Cllr Bolander, Baillie Christy Mearns and Rachel Angus.

2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING ON 28^th JANUARY

Adoption proposed by Gordon Millar and seconded by Alice Cowan.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

3. POLICE REPORT

PC Convery reported from the 28^th of January to the 24^th February there were 84 crimes of which 33 were detected and 51 undetected. These figures may change as investigations continue. There could be multiple crimes within one crime report. Priority areas for policing were identified, including Virginia Street, Glassford Street, New Wynd, Old Wynd, Trongate, and local car parks.

Police Questions

Scott asked about the new CCTV camera on Clyde Street. PC Convery confirmed it had been fitted and is working. He hopes to provide a map of where GCC CCTV cameras are in our area.

A resident reported a large number of young people, around 50, on George St recently. PC Convery would make enquiries and feed back.

4. COMMONWEALTH GAMES GLASGOW 2026 – PRESENTATION

Andy Robin (Lead Community Engagement Manager), Scott Maclean (Business Readiness Manager) and Gary Grieve (Assistant Community Engagement Manager) gave a presentation. The games take place from Thursday 23^rd of July to Sunday 2^nd of August.  Due to hosting the games previously existing sports venues can be used and there will not be an athletes’ village. They have £150m of private funding and no public funding is involved.

Scott McLean gave details of the business readiness campaign, ‘All In’, for businesses to engage. Gary Grieve discussed community engagement efforts including their collaboration with schools, councils, and sports organisations.

The ‘Games Corridor’ covers 7 CC areas: Scotstoun, Yorkhill, Anderston, Merchant City and Trongate, Govan, Calton and Shettleston. The four venues are Scotstoun Leisure Centre, Tollcross Pool, The Emirates Arena and the SEC. The Corinthian on Ingram St will be the official Team Scotland House. It will serve as central hub for athletes and families.

As part of community engagement there are sport ambassador programmes, and free ‘come and try’ events taking place in communities. They are planning 22 events starting in June to mid-August.  Merchant City Festival (MCF) will be integrated under the Games Festival, organised by Glasgow Life. Tickets are sold by Ticketmaster:

https://www.glasgow2026.com/get-involved/tickets

The team expressed openness to ongoing dialogue with businesses and the community to ensure a successful event.

Member Questions

Gary asked about disruption within the city as there are many roadworks underway during the games, would this further disrupt traffic and public transport?  Cllr Braat asked about accessibility for public utility vehicles such cleansing, refuse removal and deliveries for businesses.

GCC’s City Activation Team and Logistics Team are working these matters out and we will know more details in April. A travel survey is being carried out in March to identify congestion points. The events will be mainly indoor and transport plans for spectators to navigate to venues from the closest train, bus and cycle routes. Unfortunately, the events will not be ‘free-to-air’ to view on television, however they are exploring this option for community groups.

Ros noted that the back of tickets could be used for advertising or local business promotions. Scott MacLean agreed.

JT asked about the volunteer programme. There were over 15k applications and successful applicants will be informed soon and invited for ‘onboarding’ next month. Those who were not selected they have a wider communication program to link them with associated bodies such as Sport Scotland.

5. ELECTED MEMBER REPORTS

Cllr Philip Braat reported the Licensing Board has approved an extension for the sale of alcohol in public houses, and the like, when showing games in the FIFA World Cup 2026. This will extend for the duration of the tournament, starting on June 11^th, for all games.  Venues have to apply for an extension and will only be granted if they normally show sports on TV. They will be able to sell alcohol up to 30 minutes after the game has ended.

GCC are in the process of agreeing a new contract for a public toilet cubicle provider. Until this is agreed, the existing Healthmatic contract will be extended. Scott noted that MCTCC replied to a consultation on public toilets back in February 2024 but we have not received any response.

The Stockwell St Avenue project has been awarded to the Hillhouse Group and work will start on the 23^rd of March.  Scott noted the community engagement was due to start on the 23rd of February.

Maxwell St building site – the Environmental Team have came back to say that the site does not meet the criteria for enforcement under the Environmental Health Protection Act 1990.  Cllr Braat has asked for clarification on this. Scott believes it is 18 months since this was first brought to GCC’s attention. They have issued a notice to clean up the site within one month, which expires tomorrow, 25^th February 2026.

Cllr Braat attended meetings with the Police regarding the new Dispersal Zones in the city centre.  This is to tackle open drug use and other illegal activities. If a person is given a Dispersion Notice they will not be able to enter the zone for 24 hours. It will come into effect on the 20^th of March and will cover Central Rail Station, Union St and St Enoch Square.  Also included is the area bounded by St Vincent Place, Glassford Street/Stockwell Street, to the far side of the riverbank, and York Street/West Campbell Street.

He has had reports of illegal car parking in the Miller St area.

Questions for Cllr Braat

A resident noted drug abuse near to the River Clyde.

Gary noted that GCC bills property owners when debris falls from their property promptly and at some expense. This is in contrast to the aforementioned Maxwell St site.

Scott read out updates from Cllr Angus Millar: He is looking into an awareness campaign on bird feeding. He has asked for comparative statistics for the amount of needles deposited in other parts of the city and those in the safe needle bin in New Wynd.

Scott said that disappointingly First Bus had not responded to emails asking for a bus service between the MCTCC area and the Royal Infirmary.

Niall noted that on Ingram St, near to Miller St, the road has been marked as a Bus Gate, however there is no signage. This has caused confusion for drivers, who then do U-turns.

6. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Scott read out the Community Engagement report written by Niall:

A draft community engagement strategy has been written, discussed and adopted. This will underpin our community engagement activities for 2026 and beyond. It summarises how MCTCC will deepen the engagement with the community it serves.

A sub-group of community councillors will now work to create a community engagement action plan to deliver effective and participatory events in the area. Given the importance of this topic, it will now be a standing item at each public meeting.

The MCTCC website is regularly updated and is being enhanced to give more information to the community. For example, planning and licensing applications are now updated weekly, with details to allow members of the community to comment on them.  Further improvements will allow us to share details of upcoming events in the area.

Part of the engagement strategy will ensure that we use our website, social media, noticeboards and any printed materials consistently, and this is something that will become more visible over the next few months.

7. LOCAL PLACE PLAN

David Hughes reported that MCTCC’s LPP is now complete. He thanked Niall for his work on this and will send this back to GCC for review and validation. It will then be submitted to neighbouring CCs for comments. After this it will be due for formal adoption. Scott asked about the 18^th December deadline for the new City Development Plan. David Hughes said key points of the LPP will be incorporated in this.

8. PLANNING

Ross Naismith gave his report on the following:-

1. A) Avenues, Generally In MCTCC Area, email to Ward Councillors, 15th January.

After the public meeting in December, he emailed Cllr Millar and Ward Councillors on the 15th of January with his concerns and recommendations for all solutions. RN stated that he believes that he has engaged on discussions with GCC/ Avenues Team as far as he is able and that resolutions to design concerns need to return to the Ward Councillor’s responsibility.

RN has requested that a second opinion be sought from the Glasgow Institute of Architects about the designs. There are 6 Avenue projects in our area, he has not seen any plans for George St or Cochrane St as yet.

1. B) Planning timeframes and processes etc, meeting with GCC/ Planning, 6th February.

He had a positive meeting with the Head of GCC Planning Dept. He expressed his concerns how planning applications process through the system and feels the timeframe for the process is too long in Glasgow. He would like to see more transparency in the process. Glasgow Institute of Architects has a design ‘panel’ that can be referred to when cases arise, for second opinion situations.

1. C) Area Partnership meeting 12^th February – second tier ‘in- ground’ tree planting,

RN understands there are 15 new trees agreed and 3 replacement trees agreed in principle. The three replacement trees are located at the corner of Ingram and High Streets – one on the north side outside Sapporo, an two outside the Merchant Chippie.

He has been working with Rachel to identify possible new locations for planting.

1. D) Parnie/ King/ Osborne Area Regeneration, meeting with GCC/ City Centre Strategy and GCC City Property, 19th February.

He and Rachel Angus had a meeting with a representative from the City Centre Strategy Dept. and a director from City Property, plus Cllr Angus Millar to discuss the above topic. They were open to ideas and RA and RN would follow-up in due course with proposals for regeneration for funding by GCC.

1. E) King St car park and Custom House Quay, Planning Application update.

He is optimistic that planning applications will be made on these in the near future.

1. F) Candleriggs upgrade, GCC/ Sustainable Transport postponement, email to Ward Councillors, 12th February.

He has asked Cllr Millar if he could setup a meeting with Sustainable Transport to discuss concerns on postponement of design proposals.

1. G) Ingram St And Queen St Alterations, GCC/ Sustainable Transport proposals, email to Ward Councillors,12th February.

The proposals for Queen St / Ingram St are not subject to planning regulations, but come under an Emergency Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO). RN has objected to the proposals on MCTCC’s behalf on a number of points.

1. H) St Enoch Square (east), Howard St, Stockwell Pl, Stockwell St regeneration/ listing as ‘area of interest’.

He would like to see this area listed as ‘An Area of Special Interest’. Meetings with stakeholders are planned.

9. LICENSING

Gary had no report this month.

He has not sure he can see all applications. He is also not able to lodge objections in Licensing Portal.

Scott said an Irish community celebration parade on 14th March had been publicised in the press but MCTCC had not been notified. He is taking this up with GCC.

10. EXTERNAL GROUPS

David Hughes and Rachel Angus attended the Area Partnership (AP) meeting. They discussed graffiti and their concerns about the lack of plans for an alternative to Trongate for football fans’ end of season celebrations.

NRS have said that of the 18 bench locations identified by MCTCC only 6 are suitable. This has been questioned by MCTCC. It has been agreed that a walkabout comprising the AP and NRS to determine the suitability of bench sites is the way forward.

NRS have allocated a further £14K to MCTCC from the £100,000 set aside for trees in Ward 10. NRS had stated that an exploratory tree dig costs £500.00. DH stated that Rachel had sent an email recommending that the NIF budget be allocated to 15 Trees and 14 benches. There was no decision on this.

It should be noted that any unspent funds must be allocated to MCTCC projects by March 2027 or risks being lost.

11. FRIENDS OF RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD

David Hughes reported he has new tour guides including Neil Baxter (Historian), Paul Noble (Doors Open Day) and Alice Lister (Strathclyde University).

12.  TREASURERS REPORT

Gordon Millar (Treasurer) reported our bank balance as of today is £9,510.06.

We received the GCC CC Administration Grant of £616.84.

We are due to receive a contribution of £500 from a film company.

13. AOCB

Rachel Angus is organising the MCTCC Litter Pick on the 7^th March from 10.30 am, meeting at the front of the Ramshorn Church on Ingram St. Black bags and litter pickers will be provided.  David Hughes will attend.

The next meeting will include a presentation about the Business Improvement District and in April from Manish Joshi of the Social Innovation Cluster at Strathclyde University.

14. DATE OF NEXT MEETING:

Tuesday 31^st March 2026 – 6.30-8.30pm in City Chambers.

DRAFT MCTCC Full Meeting Minutes, 27^th January 2026

Attendance

Community Councillors	Scott Thornton; Gordon Millar; Niall McColl; David Cowan; Alice Cowan; Gary Atkinson; Ros Atkinson; Rachel Angus; David Hughes; Peter Hayman
Residents	JH; TM; RE; EM; PP; EM (via Zoom)
Elected Representatives	Cllr Angus Millar; Bailie Christy Mearns
Police Scotland	PC Chris Convery
Glasgow City Council	Ewan Curtis; Rachel Smith; Lisa Scott
Other	Nicole Mitchell; Gary Fanning (via Zoom)

1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Cllr Braat and Ross Naismith.

2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING ON 25^th NOVEMBER

Adoption proposed by Rachel Angus and seconded by Ros Atkinson.

The Secretary will send the approved minutes to Glasgow City Council.

3. POLICE REPORT

PC Convery reported from the 1st of January to the 27th there were 81 crimes of which 34 were detected and 47 undetected. These figures may change as investigations continue. There could be multiple crimes within one crime report.  Priority areas for policing include Virginia Street, Glassford Street, New Wind, Old Wind, Trongate, and car parts areas.

Police Questions

David Cowan asked if anything could be done to reduce graffiti in Trongate and surrounding areas. PC Convery will ask the CCTV operators to monitor for this during the night and in the morning, when this crime is often committed. However, it is a hard crime to prevent, and there have been instances where people have travelled to Glasgow and claim they believed it is legal to spray paint here.

Scott reported that John Grady MP had received a letter from the UK Dept. of Transport after he quoted MCTCC concerns about enforcement of electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) being ridden at speeds of more than the maximum permitted 15.5 mph. The UK Government has no plans to introduce a registration scheme as costs and complexities would outweigh the benefits. The Minister encouraged MCTCC residents to continue to report any incidents to police and the Community Council.

PC Convery confirmed the speed limit for e-bikes is up to 15.5 miles per hour. The Council’s e-bike scheme is compliant. Some delivery drivers have been found with modified bikes allowing them to achieve higher speeds. Enforcement action has been taken against illegal use. The Police would like to see By-Laws introduced to help with enforcement.  Scott thanked Police Scotland for their work in removing illegal e-bikes

Scott asked about speed limits for cars. The police are looking to implement of a 20mph speed limit for cars in residential areas. The council is going to roll-out this scheme across the city and be extended to all of Scotland eventually. Cllr Millar said the evidence shows a 30% reduction in road collisions, and 30% reductions in fatalities where there has been a collision in areas where this has been implemented. The 20mph limit will be implemented across Scotland in residential areas.

4. SOUTH PORTLAND St BRIDGE – PLACE FUNDING PRESENTATION

Ewan Curtis, Rachel Smith and Lisa Scott from GCC gave a presentation explaining the priorities to upgrade the South Portland Suspension Bridge.  The bridge is a Designated A Listed heritage structure, more information is available from:

https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/apex/f?p=1505:300:::::VIEWTYPE,VIEWREF:designation,LB32668

This project is being carried out in advance of several other adjacent works such as Custom House Quay. The Place Fund have allocated £480,000 for environmental improvements to the bridge, partial structural restoration, lighting and improvements to the riverbank at Carlton Place. Lisa Scott said £180,000 would be used for tree management and railing repairs, while the remaining funds would address some of the bridge’s structural needs.

The project plan and budget must be committed before 31st March, and will prioritise quick interventions. Recent tree inspections revealed some older trees approaching the end of their lifespan, prompting plans for a managed approach to removals and new planting.

Member Questions

Scott asked about CCTV and was told that a camera had been installed on the bridge. He would like to see measures being taken to ensure the bridge is not defaced by graffiti.

Gordon Millar asked if the mature trees in Carlton Place could be retained. It was explained these trees block views and need to be removed as they are end of life. It will improve safety in the area and more suitable type trees for this environment will be planted.

David Cowan asked if the bridge surface would be upgraded. Lisa Scott explained a survey of the timbers under the bridge found they do not require to be replaced. However, a new covering will be laid to improve the path surface.

David Hughes asked if they would consider assistance from the community to help clear the vegetation from the riverbank. The team responded that, as safety is their primary concern, they will employ a suitable contractor to do this work.

EM asked what work would take place on the Clyde Street side of the bridge. Ewan Curtis advised there will be some restoration work to the towers. The river walls will be upgraded as part of associated projects. Scott noted that many funds are being allocated to other projects in our area.  Cllr Millar noted that this will project will enhance the Custom House Quay project and Avenues projects nearby.

Baillie Christie Mearns raised concerns about the proposed red lighting on the bridge, noting the existing amount of coloured lighting along the Clyde. She asked whether the lighting scheme could be shared in advance for comment. It was noted that any lighting design should be sympathetic to the bridge’s structure. Rachel Angus agreed, commenting that additional red lighting could feel excessive given the current multi-coloured lighting along the Clyde, and suggested that a more natural lighting approach would be better suited to highlighting the bridge’s architectural features.

Scott thanked the team attending and understands that Rachel Smith is addressing the Area Partnership on trees in the city centre which of interest to this community.

5. ELECTED MEMBER REPORTS

Cllr Angus Millar reported that he and Cllr Eva Bolander met to discuss anti-social behaviour and other matters in December. They will attend a follow-up meeting this week.

There was an article in the press about the illegal car park on Fox Street. GCC are trying to identify who the owners of the land are. GCC have issued an Amenity Notice and have started the issuance of a Planning Enforcement Order.

He has arranged a meeting between community councillors and GCC officials on 19th February regarding the Parnie St area.

He has been in correspondence about the difficulties about Do Not Feed the Birds type signage, GCC cannot put up signs on buildings it does not own. He is in discussion with NRS about what options may be available. It is hoped a wider awareness campaign will be developed. Rachel noted there is a researcher from Glasgow University interested in working with GCC on formulating an education campaign for this purpose.

There was a public consultation event in January for the People First Zone on Queen St and Ingram Street.  The Candleriggs development will be funded in the budget for the 2026-27 financial year, but it is unlikely that full pedestrianisation will be implemented.

After a long wait, statistics have been provided regarding use of the Safe Needle Bin in New Wynd: there were 1450 ‘sharps’ deposited there from June and December 2025. There were 227 sharps deposited safely in other parts of the city.  This helps to make the city centre a safer place. He will follow up to get comparative analysis for previous periods.

Baillie Christy Mearns met with a business group from Virginia St to discuss how to make the area greener and more pleasant. Issues included cars idling with engines running. Parklets were considered – for example, carpark spaces can made into seating areas next to pavements.

Santa Lucia restaurant responded positively to her regarding reducing the noise in the early morning that was disturbing residents. They have since changed their waste refuse contractor. However, there has been no response from other nearby restaurants yet.

She continues to support improved recycling facilities and has worked with Scott to identify locations for new bin hubs in the street and accessible resident back courts.

Common Ground is a Barnardos project that has a hub centrally located in on Argyle St near to Glasgow Central station, where they focus on helping young people at risk or in distress and provides a number of services such as ensuring they can return home safely.

She has reported potholes to the roads department. At Stockwell St, junction Osborne St a group of deep potholes were repaired on 11th January.  However, this is a temporary repair until the Stockwell St Avenue project starts there on the 15^th February.

Councillor Questions

Niall noted the traffic St on Ingram St is often gridlocked, especially at weekends, and that most of the vehicles are taxis, not private cars.

The consultation on Queen St and Ingram St was well attended. However, community councillors who attended felt it was lacking in substance and required further consultation prior to works beginning.

Cllr Millar said the E-TRO (Experimental Traffic Regulation Order) is a pilot project to reduce traffic, and hence congestion. The Bus Gate being implemented on the right turn from Ingram to Queen Street will be monitored to avoid unintended impacts and there may be adjustments made if this happens. The bus gate will have ANPR cameras for enforcement.

Ros Atkinson explained that the number of cars waiting at traffic lights make it difficult to exit their building’s car park, and once they do exit, it takes a considerable time to get to out the city in any direction.

EM noted the trees in planters at Ramshorn Graveyard are unsuitable and are surrounded by weeds. Also, the planter at the Ingram St/Albion St is out of proportion and the tree does not look healthy.  David Hughes and Rachel will raise this at the Area Partnership after the presentation on this subject.  Bailie Christy Mearns noted the complexities of planting trees in this area but GCC are trying to adjust for this.

Rachel asked if there was any update on the removal of defunct street posts.  Cllr Millar said there may be signposts which are missing signs due to changes in traffic flows and regulations, however the issue is still being investigated.  She noted there were other items that ought to be removed such as a cement block on Montrose St, disused street electrical boxes and the phone box at Ingram St carpark.

6. LOCAL PLACE PLAN (LPP)

David Hughes reported that the draft MCTCC LPP plan was submitted to GCC in November.  GCC have asked for some amendments, such as larger maps and graphics, and asked that we update the plan to advise how our Policy Statement would impact on the current development plans. Once the updated plan is submitted and verified by GCC, there is a statutory 28-day consultation with neighbouring Community Councils.

7. PLANNING

Scott Thornton read out the planning report prepared by Ross Naismith

• Homeless Project Scotland (HPS) have submitted a planning application for the Glassford St premises
• George Square – Ross noted no lighting designs have been shared as yet. The contractor has informed him these will be made available to him soon.
• Concerned about the length of time taken for planning applications to be decided. This may discourage developers. Cllr Millar referred to an article in the paper today about a planning improvement programme. He will forward on the link to this.
• Stockwell St Avenue project will start mid-February.
• Maxwell St Area – there is room for improvement.

8. LICENSING

• Gary Atkinson reported that we will object to the application for 100 Maxwell Street’s hours to be extended.
• Niall noted that the Polo Lounge – Daytime Disco application may already be covered by their existing license.
• The consultation into exemption of Short Term Lets (STL) licensing during the Commonwealth Games ends next week.

9. AREA PARTNERSHIP & JOINT ACTION GROUP (JAG)

David Hughes reported that members don’t see papers until one week before the meeting, which can be a hindrance.

The Tron Theatre received £25k of NIF funding for refurbishment to its steeple.  The dead trees reported on Ingram St have been chopped down, although the stumps remain and need to be removed as they are a hazard.

Bailie Christy Mearns noted that it can take a substantial amount of time, after NIF funds had been allocated, for projects to be scheduled and for work to begin.

Rachel Angus will take over from David Hughes as our AP representative and will stand down as a JAG representative.

David Cowan attended the Joint Action Group on 22nd January. Police Scotland hope to attend each JAG meeting. JAG would like to see new By Laws for e-bikes.  The next meeting is on the 26^th February.

10.  FRIENDS OF RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD

David Hughes reported there will be a committee meeting on the 14th January.  They will have a presentation about one of the lairs.  He has had a response for new tour guides, including from historian Neil Baxter.

He has sent an email today to NRS to enquire about installing a defibrillator and signage on the gate railings. A dead tree in the graveyard is being considered for sculpting. He attended the launch of the community fusion fund with Niall and David Cowan.

11.  UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS

There were no updates from previous meetings this month.

12.  WEBSITE

There is work ongoing to improve the Planning and Licensing pages. Licensing applications are now updated weekly, with planning notices to follow.

The Tron Theatre has sent details of their future programme and will be available on our site before the end of February.

Social Media

Niall is reviewing which platforms MCTCC communications will use, as part of the community engagement strategy being developed. He has attended Community Engagement events run by Planning Aid Scotland.

The MCTCC notice board on Wilson St has been cleaned up, thanks to all who helped.  The viability of maintaining the Trongate noticeboard is under review. Digitising of notice boards is being considered.

13.  FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

There was no report this month.

14.  TREASURERS REPORT

Gordon Millar (Treasurer) reported our bank balance as of today is £8,893.22.

We received the GCC CC Administration Grant of £500.

We paid out £500 to the Mural Fund as part of an MCTCC grant.

15.  COMMUNITY COUNCIL VACANCY

We have two vacancies at present – anyone who is a resident of the MCTCC area is eligible to apply.

16. AOCB

• David Hughes intends to step down from MCTCC once the LPP has been approved by GCC.
• A new community litter pick day will be announced in the near future.
• There will be presentation about the Commonwealth Games at our February meeting.
• The Scottish Parliament Elections will take place on the 7th of May.

17. DATE OF NEXT MEETING:

Tuesday 24^th February 2026 – 6.30-8.30pm in City Chambers.

MCTCC Meeting Minutes, 25th November 2025

Attended by: Scott Thornton (Chair), Niall McColl, Ross Naismith, David Hughes, Rachel Angus, Peter Hayman, David Cowan, Cllr Angus Millar, Cllr Eva Bolander, Gregor McIntyre for John Grady MP, PC Nathan Baxter and Sgt Steven Wright from Police Scotland, Ciaran Buchanan from GCC Avenues Project, Eileen Clarkson from RNIB and Alan Stewart, Tricia Fort (Calton Community Council).

Residents: DF, TMcK, PP, MG and TD

By Zoom video: EM, JR, RE, GF, RW and AC.

1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Depute Lord Provost Christy Mearns, Cllr Braat, Gordon Millar, Gary Atkinson, Ros Atkinson and EM.

2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING ON 28^th OCTOBER

Adoption proposed by Rachel Angus and seconded by David Hughes.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

3. POLICE REPORT

The Police read out the crime statistics from the 1st November to 25th November, there were 115 crimes in MCTCC area of which 67 detected and 48 undetected, but this may change.

Possession of controlled drugs and road traffic offences made up many of these crimes.  PC Baxter, who produced the monthly Police Report, reminded people not to leave any items in cars. They will be running the annual Festive Action Plan which will involve uniformed and plain clothes officers.

As part of this there will be increased focus to reduce drink driving and drug driving. There have been days of action to prevent shoplifting.

Police Questions

Scott reported Candleriggs has had an increased police presence since reports at the last meeting of drugs misuse and anti-social behaviour.

It is not known how often the discarded needles bin on Old Wynd is used. There is a crime prevention survey planned in December with business and residents to see how crime might be reduced.  Officers will monitor the area, however if a higher priority crime takes place, then officers will be called away.

Gary Atkinson will have a meeting with Gregor, from John Grady MP office, about e-bikes. The legal speed limit is 15mph, but some are modified to go faster. These are confiscated by the police on occasion. It is understood that e-scooters are illegal and are not meant to be used on public roads.

Scott is meeting Inspector Watters tomorrow.

4. RNIB PRESENTATION

Eileen Clarkson, the Campaigns Officer for RNIB Scotland explained how most people with partial sight is due to age related deterioration. There are about 180k people registered blind in Scotland; only 7% have total blindness. RNIB have produced a leaflet called ‘Getting Around’ to inform people how best they might manage to navigate streets.

Alan Stewart, who is partially sighted, gave a demonstration of the issues he faces getting around town by describing a journey from Central Station to Brunswick St. He can’t see people and uses a white cane to detect obstacles in front on him such as a kerbs or cracked paving. Other obstacles he encounters are ‘A boards’, potholes, street bins and bollards.

Due to this he tries to walk in the quieter streets. He explained how there is a rotating cone below each traffic light module which rotates when the light is green. The studs on paving are very helpful, however some of these on Argyle St are brass, and so are slippery when it is wet.   E-bikes can be a hazard but more so impatient drivers at traffic lights. The lights at Ingram St, near to Ramshorn Church are of particular concern as they give little time to cross the road.

Rachel asked how he finds Brunswick St. Alan noted that even though this is a one-way street, ebikes and cyclists go up and down it. Due to the amount of pavement seating by bars and cafes he is compelled to avoid this street. He feels these obstacles amount to social exclusion for the blind and partially sighted.

Scott mentioned it might be helpful if we could have an article by Alan Stewart on our website about these experiences. He would like our area to be made more accessible in the future.

5. HIGH ST AVENUES PRESENTATION

Ciaran Buchanan, Principal Officer for the Avenues Project, gave a presentation of the forthcoming High St Avenue project. The north end will have a widened footpath with a segregated bidirectional cycle lane made possible by reducing the carriageway width. New drainage will be installed as part of this work. He explained that new trees cannot be planned there due to the number of underground utilities. As such, new planters will be installed.

The segregated cycle lane will run from Duke St up to Rottenrow. It cannot continue further because of the large amount of traffic making it not feasible. The cycle lane will turn left onto Rottenrow. Mr Buchanan explained how transport modelling has shown the Castle St junction cannot accommodate a cycle lane due to the limited traffic capacity on High St to allow for a cycle lane. It is also a key emergency services route.

Scott noted that the MCTCC boundary extends to the west side of High St to George St, at the junction of Duke St.

Questions About High St Avenue Project

Ross noted the trouble crossing the road on High St.. Public engagement has been carried out with the public and community. All the crossing equipment is replaced and it should be easier to cross with the new road layout.

Peter Hayman noted that Rottenrow is a cobbled road and steep making it difficult for cyclists. The High St is used for people getting to their doctors and hospital appointments at the Royal Infirmary. It was discussed how the George St and Duke St junction is being upgraded, and people can then go left up Castle St and then right on to Wishart St to the hospital.

Alan Stewart asked about measures for disabled people.  In terms of accessibility Mr Buchanan explained that lessons have been learned from previous Avenues projects. All junctions within these projects are brought up to modern standards with new equipment and tactile paving installed.

David Hughes noted that traffic is being reduced to single carriageway each way. The City Regeneration Handbook lists one of key factors that inhibit shoppers is where they find it difficult to cross the roads.

On Duke St junction, the George St Avenue project is expected to link up in approximately 18 months’ time. David and Ross have discussed possible areas in Ingram St where it might be possible to plant trees. Again, this was dependent upon the amount of underground utilities under the pavement which meant it was not possible, but discussion continues of alternative sites.

At the High St Rail Station there will be a pedestrian crossing, not signal-controlled. The Avenues project have contacted Scotrail to see if they wish to do further upgrades also.

Ross will study the technical drawings and once he has more details of street furniture lighting, he will be able to make recommendations, if required. He believes that planters are somewhat of a compromise to having trees.

Scott noted how there is no bus service linking our area and the Royal Infirmary.  Cllr Millar has consulted with SPT on this issue, there is a recognised need for such a bus route but it was considered infeasible.

Mr Buchanan expects the survey for George St part of the project to open at the end of 2026 or start of 2027.  Updated plans will available soon. Scott thanked Mr Buchanan for his presentation.

6. ELECTED MEMBERS’ REPORTS

Cllr Bolander has been trying to reduce noise pollution for residents on Ingram St with bin lorries arriving very early in the morning. She has engaged with the stakeholders, the refuse company and the business, but no change in the pick-up time has been agreed and so correspondence continues.  Scott asked what could be done and it was considered if GCC it this could be an environmental health matter?   Cllr Bolander noted that ‘a liveable city centre’ is key part of the City Centre Strategy. MG thanked Cllr Bolander for her work on this. He raised the matter back in July 2024.

Cllr Bolander has undertaken a wider strategic review of at how bulk uplift, refuse collection and recycling within the city centre to see how it might be improved. Scott will contact Cllr Bolander to discuss this matter further.

She has been with the consultation for the new park at the riverside which is part of the Custom House Quay planning application. A large part of this has been on how to make the park a safe environment.

As mentioned in the previous meeting, she has been in contact with local historian Neil Baxter. His latest book is titled ‘Greyfriars, Blackfriars and Deep-Fat Fryers!’ is a history of the High St. She reported he is happy to come and talk to MCTCC about his research.

The Christmas lights will not be on George Square this year due to the redevelopment. Instead, there will be a light trail at various locations around the city centre including Argyle St.

Two planning applications were refused for hotels behind the St. Enochs Centre. One was on Maxwell St and a B-listed building and the other was a non-listed building in a Conservation Area.

Cllr Millar gave an update on the regeneration of Parnie St and Trongate area. He is expecting more details when meeting with GCC officials in the near future.  Regarding the pothole on Parnie St, near to the junction with Chisolm St, it is understood that Scottish Water are looking into what caused the fault.

He is awaiting the cost breakdown for South Portland St Bridge which will include a footpath covering.  He will contact GCC staff regarding issues raised on the last walkabout.

7. LOCAL PLACE PLAN (LPP) & MATTERS ARISING

David Hughes reported that, as part of that process of writing this document, it was identified how our area does not have a community hub, a community playpark, a community park or a doctor’s surgery.

The LPP has still to be validated by GCC, and thereafter, distributed to our neighbouring community councils for one month.

It is a matter of pride that this has been done entirely by our members, and did not require a third-party organisation, and so may be a more relevant document.

8. PLANNING

Ross Naismith noted that many matters had already been discussed prior in the meeting.

He attended a meeting about the Avenues Project(s) where ‘second tier planting’ was discussed and how, if we receive funding, new trees will be installed. Ross understands there are 60 trees that are ordered outside of the Avenues project.

Re the Maxwell St/Fox St hotel application, Ross had previously submitted his comments on behalf of MCTCC to Planning.  He had mentioned that the witnesses in favour of the Application had many commendable points regarding the general area needing improvement. He also mentioned that MCTCC as a group, should give serious consideration, in 2026, specifically to improvements to elevations on (East) St Enoch Square, Howard Street, Stockwell Place, and Stockwell Street (including the Car Park area). Although MCTCC objected to the proposals, Ross stated my concern that the refusal meant loss of considerable time in achieving a good architectural solution to this important site, and that the Applicant could have addressed obvious/ glaring aspects to avoid objections before proceeding with the Application.

There was an approved redevelopment ‘masterplan’ for St Enoch Shopping Centre however this has not gone ahead.  Scott met with the new Director of the Centre last week, who confirmed this will not be progressing. Cllr Bolander added there has been strong retail revenue from the centre now that shoppers have returned to Glasgow.

9. LICENSING

Scott reported, in Gary’s absence, the following: –

• Blane Valley public house has applied for an extra hour of licence until 1am, Monday to Sunday. Also included is outside seating on Glassford St for 6 people and seating on Garth St for 14 people. End date for objections is the 18th of December.
• St Judes Licensing for 79 Albion St, variations to licensing provisions.

10. AREA PARTNERSHIP AND JAG

David Hughes noted last November they have been asking for NIF funding for 74 trees.  He also submitted a bid for 18 benches which are now being costed by NRS. Cllr Millar confirmed.

AP members have been holding Zoom meetings to work out the details for the NIF budget.  The AP funds were used to remove the dead trees previously mentioned. It is hoped new trees will be planted in due course.

Rachel will be meeting with the Joint Action Group on Thursday evening.

11. FRIENDS OF RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD (FoRG)

David Hughes attended a Scottish Tourism Networking event at City Halls yesterday. He will attend a showcasing event at Impact Arts next week.

He will meet with Chris Gray of NRS to discuss the Local Improvement Fund. Some possible uses would be for a deep clean of the graveyard, the sculpting of a dead tree therein and a sign put on the outside fence to notify where the nearest defibrillator is located.

Paul Nome, from Trades House, will give a talk at the next meeting about Lair 50-2. The next meeting is on the 14th of January, 2026.

12. UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS

David Cowan received an email from GCC Landlord Services explaining his request would take more time than expected due to staffing issues. It also requested which postcodes were used in the MCTCC area. He replied that all of MCTCC is in the G1 postcode.

13. RECYCLING FACILITIES

Scott has been in email correspondence with Network Rail, NCP and Gary Beacham from GCC regarding additional recycling facilities.

14. PIGEONS / SEAGULLS

It would be useful as part of the redevelopment of George Square if “Do Not Feed The Birds” signage could be designed-in. It is a place where people often eat.  Cllr Millar has been talking about this with various departments.

Cllr Bolander noted that there are electronic boards being installed around the city centre which could display such messages and raise awareness.

Scott noted the new manager of the St Enochs Centre said pigeons and seagulls cause health issues, and to counter this the centre has incurred maintenance costs.

15. LEZ FUNDING

MCTCC has lodged a second application to the LEZ fund for more trees in our area.

16. FOOTBALL FAN CELEBRATIONS

There was no report this month.

17. WEBSITE

David Cowan has drawn up list of possible funding sources. He has been asked to liaise with Gordon Millar regarding to find projects this community council is most eligible.

18. FILMING

Scott reported there will be disruption to Clyde St on Thursday and Friday, 27th and 28th November due to one lane being closed to allow for filming.

19. TREASURER’S REPORT

Gordon Millar (Treasurer) was not able to attend this meeting.

An invoice Balloon Counsels will be issued for £500 due to disruption caused by filming.

 

20. COMMUNITY COUNCIL VACANCY

 

Then Community Council vacancy is still open for applications.

21. AoCB

• Glasgow’s Winter Wonderland – Petition by Tricia Fort, Chair, Calton CC

The petition was passed round due to there being no consultation, or information, with the local community regarding the relocation to Glasgow Green. The event starts on 21st November and closes on the 4th of January 2026, it will be closed only on Christmas Day and New Year Day. Tricia only got a meeting with NRS on the 5th of November. The fair produces lots of noise and disturbance to local residents.

• JR advised thatan event was recently held on Candleriggs Square with no prior
• The MCTCC Christmas meal will be on the 9th of December.

22. DATE OF NEXT MEETING:

Tuesday 27^th January 2026 – 6.30-8.30pm in City Chambers.

Minutes of Annual General Meeting of Merchant City and Trongate Community Council held on 28 October 2025 in City Chambers from 6 pm.

These draft minutes will be presented to our 2026 AGM for approval

Attended by: Scott Thornton (Acting Chair), Gary Atkinson, Rosalind Atkinson, Alice Cowan, David Cowan, David Hughes, Niall McColl, Gordon Millar, Alasdair McDougall (MSP Kaukab Stewart’s office), Gregor McIntyre (MP John Grady’s office), Ross Naismith, Councillor Philip Braat, CM, GF, AH, TMcK, JS, NM, EM, AC.

Apologies: Rachel Angus, Baillie Christy Mearns, GW

1. Minutes of last AGM held on 26 November 2024

Adoption proposed by Niall McColl, seconded by David Cowan. Approved.

2. Chairperson’s Annual Report

This had been submitted in advance to Community Councillors by co-Vice Chairs Gary Atkinson and Scott Thornton in the absence of Chair Tam Coyle who had announced he was taking temporary leave of absence from Community Council work.

Scott Thornton read out an abbreviated version of this report (below) with the full report to be posted on the Community Council website. The full version can be viewed in our report on the meeting.

“In 2025 Glasgow city centre began undergoing its biggest upgrade in half a century, with many streets being redesigned into Avenues.

Several of the biggest projects, including redevelopment of George Square, are in the Merchant City and Trongate Community Council (MCTC) area so it has been a particularly busy 2025. The pace is going to accelerate in 2026 and beyond.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will bring tens of thousands of visitors to Glasgow. All this has coincided with the 50th anniversary of Community Councils in Scotland.

On the Glasgow City Council (GCC) level, office bearers have held many high level meetings with officers to present local residents’ views, aspirations and suggestions. Credit for much of this goes to our Planning Lead, Ross Naismith.

On a broader front MCTCC is closely involved with the Area Partnership of Community Councils within Ward 10. At the most recent meeting we secured funding for the renovation of the Tron Tower steeple and will continue to press for our area to receive its fair share of allocations from the Area Partnership’s Neighbourhood Infrastructure Improvement Fund.

Next year GCC will unveil its new City Development Plan (CDP), shaping Glasgow for the next 5-10 years, and MCTCC has been playing its part.

Under the leadership of David Hughes we’ve drafted our own Local Place Plan (LPP) which will feed into the CDP. This is one of the most important documents ever prepared by this Community Council and will include feedback from local residents gathered in person during public consultation outings in the St Enoch Centre and Trongate and from an online survey.

We need more local residents to join us to help fulfil one of the main aims of our Constitution which is ‘to act as a voice for the local area on any matters affecting the community’s lives, welfare and environment.’

Last but certainly not least, we would like to pay tribute to Tam Coyle who has a remarkable record of 20 years as a Community Councillor and has led MCTCC with distinction. We look forward to his return to continue to provide guidance and inspiration.”

Report adoption proposed by Ross Naismith, seconded by Gordon Millar. Approved.

3. Treasurer’s submission of independently examined statement of accounts

Gordon Millar submitted the attached accounts for the year from 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2025.

Adoption proposed by Scott Thornton, seconded by Niall McColl. Approved.

It was noted that these had not been signed off by the independent auditor who has been unavailable recently. Gordon will ensure this is done and the final signed version forwarded to Glasgow City Council.

4. Review of the inventory an additional resources

Included in the above submission.

5. Demit of Office Bearers

The following office bearers stepped down:

• Chair – Tam Coyle
• Vice-Chairs – Gary Atkinson and Scott Thornton
• Secretary – Scott Thornton
• Treasurer – Gordon Millar

6. Nominations for the elections of office bearers and representatives

• Chair – Scott Thornton proposed by Ross Naismith, seconded by Niall McColl.
• Vice-Chair – Gary Atkinson proposed by Scott Thornton, seconded by David Hughes
• Secretary: Niall McColl proposed by Scott Thornton, seconded by Ross Naismith
• Treasurer: Gordon Millar proposed by Niall McColl, seconded by David Hughes

The following representatives were confirmed:

• Area Partnership – David Hughes proposed by Scott Thornton, seconded by Alice Cowan. Substitute: Gary Atkinson
• Planning Lead – Ross Naismith proposed by Scott Thornton, seconded by David Hughes
• Licensing Lead – Gary Atkinson proposed by Scott Thornton, seconded by Ross Naismith. Substitute: Rosalind Atkinson
• Joint Action Group representatives: Rachel Angus and David Cowan

7. Continuation of the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils.

The Community Council’s adherence to this was noted.

8. Appointment of the independent Examiner of Accounts for the next year

The meeting agreed to Gordon Millar’s proposal that this should be carried out again by Iain McGuire CA.

9. Appointment of Associate Members

The meeting agreed to Scott Thornton’s proposal that Peter Hayman be re-appointed in this role.

10. Date of next Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 27 October 2026.

DRAFT Meeting Minutes, 28^th October 2025

Attended by: Scott Thornton (Chair), Niall McColl, Ross Naismith, Gordon Millar, Gary Atkinson, Ros Atkinson, David Hughes, Rachel Angus, Peter Hayman, Cllr Angus Millar, Cllr Philip Braat, Cllr Eva Bolander, Inspector Watters Community Policing, Alasdair McDougall for Kaukab Stewart MSP and Gregor McIntyre for John Grady MP.

Residents: CM, JS, RA, GF, AH, TMcK, PP, MG, AC, TD, AY and EM.

By Zoom video: EM, NM and AC.

1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Baillie Christy Mearns and GW.

2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING ON 30^th SEPTEMBER

Adoption proposed by Ross Naismith and seconded by Niall McColl.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

3. POLICE REPORT

The Police briefing from 1st to 28th of October noted a total of 114 crimes of which 59 had been detected and 55 undetected. The most common types of crimes have been theft from retail premises, possession of controlled substances, road traffic violations and disorder related offences.

The Retail Crime Task Force continue to be active in the city centre.  The Community Policing Team are planning the local festive action plan. They liaise with GCC, British Transport Police and other partner agencies to formulate a robust response. The police have been monitoring Virgina St, Glassford St, Argyle St and lanes of Trongate. Both teams utilise proactive policing methods.

Scott asked where the crimes are being committed. Inspector Watters said Beat 11 around Central Rail Station and Argyle St. Opportunity theft from shops is a UK issue, not just Glasgow.  The major retail grocery stores are most common targets. Night time economy also tests Police resources. There are 65 officers out on a Saturday night in the city centre.

They work with door staff and Glasgow Street Pastors: https://www.gsp.scot/

The Police have noted a change in drug taking habits whereby it is now more done by smoking. It has been observed that car parks or secluded areas are commonly used.

Police Questions

A resident reported how a master fob for door entry in streets is being obtained by drug users. A service button can allow entry before 1pm to some buildings. Drug paraphernalia littering and noise are upsetting to residents. Telephone wait times to the police are lengthy and response times slow. Residents requested more police monitoring of the Merchant City.

Inspector Watters agreed to meet with the residents and talk and advise community police about the situation.

He explained the Safe Consumption Rooms have an outreach service who will come out and discuss matters.  A resident suggested using the Police Scotland online form may get a quicker response than phoning 101.

Gary noted that the police have to deal with many issues and can be called away when another more serious matter arises, requiring a substantial number of officers.

A resident reported a spate of graffiti on many walls, shops and street furniture including Calton, High St and Trongate at the weekend. Sectarian graffiti is part of this problem. Inspector Watters explained graffiti is hard to tackle. To make an arrest the offenders need to be ‘caught in the act’, captured on CCTV, or have witnesses.

Residents have asked for CCTV but were told this is not allowed on public areas inside and outside their premises. It could identify perpetrators or deter them.  Niall noted the MyGlasgow app can be used to report graffiti, under the ‘Other section’, to have it cleaned-up by GCC, as well as repairs and fixes such as overflowing bins.  Cllr Millar confirmed this.

4. ELECTED MEMBERS’ REPORTS

Cllr Braat has fed back by email on the issue of feeding the birds. Cllr Braat has been investigating the bird feeding issue in the city centre and provided feedback regarding littering and signage. He will report back to the community council when he has more information. No hawking service has been implemented by the council, but he will continue to make enquiries.

Fines have been imposed for littering. However, there is no legal basis for the introduction of street hawking.

Collaboration between retail security staff across the city centre has proved effective in deterring shoplifting.

He met with the Police today when e-bikes were discussed. The police confirmed they continue to confiscate them when they are not compliant with legislation. Traffic safety is a priority; greater emphasis will be allocated as we approach the festive period.

Baillie Mearns has set up a meeting with Police Scotland and other elected members.

Tomorrow he will attend, with Cllr Millar, a meeting with First Bus.

Cllr Braat Questions

Eileen Mills (EM) has been in correspondence with the Planning department regarding the fans on the roof of the City Halls. No planning permission was applied for these when installed some years ago. There was at first confusion about who owned the building. She followed up with the Scottish Government Ombudsman who urged GCC Planning to respond.

Peter Hayman met with Baillie Means today about this. As previously detailed, private flats have been approved on the adjoining NCP car park land at Ingram St. This was approved by a Scottish Government Reporter. Peter contends that the noise pollution from the fan noise ought to be considered.

Rachel asked if it was possible to start a training programme on how best to use cycle lanes and for the public and delivery riders. Cllr Braat said this will be considered. GCC officers are keen to remain focussed on young people and children’s safety, in particular regarding the speed at which bikes are ridden on pavements.

 

Cllr Millar gave feedback by email on issues raised at last month’s meeting. There has been further engagement with The Avenues Team and more feedback to MCTCC will follow.

At the last meeting he discussed the funding agreed for the South Portland Bridge. He is awaiting more details about what plans are being prepared.  City Property are making a report about the empty shops in Trongate. When he has this information, he will arrange a meeting.  He has a meeting with Inspector Watters.

There has been a 40% increase in cycle journeys promoted under the Active Travel Strategy. GCC put out awareness information about new rules in the Highway Code for cyclists. This applies to delivery companies too.  However, these are hard to enforce if a breach is reported. This can be due to not knowing which delivery company they are working for. MCTCC has said that there ought to be some form of ID issued to riders. Cllr Millar explained it was up to the UK Licencing authorities to initiate such an identification scheme.

Scott asked Gregor McIntyre to raise this with John Grady MP.

Cllr Millar Questions

Scott thanked him for his work helping MCTCC liaise with The Avenues Teams’ projects.

Ross Naismith asked about the defunct poles issue. Cllr Millar is awaiting information from the GCC Officer who attended the walkabout three weeks ago.

Cllr Millar will be notified when GCC has recruited a Co-ordination Officer to monitor trees in the streets and other issues. This may not be in the short term as it is a lengthy process to recruit and train new staff.

Ross gave an update on the Avenues. There has been an exchange of correspondence between Avenues team and RN. There will be a technical review, which he requested, on 20th November with the George Square team. There will be a review of the High Street proposals who will give a presentation at the next MCTCC full meeting on the 25th of November.

He has followed up with the Argyle St East Avenue Team. He has put his recommendations to them and has been told none of these can be met. Avenues team have agreed to commission more artist’s renderings of the proposals for public display.

Cllr Bolander reported that due to the ongoing works in George Square the Christmas tree this year will be installed at Glasgow Cathedral, and the Christmas Fayre will be based in Glasgow Green.

Cllr Bolander is a member of the High Street renovation group and would like to see greater shop usage and empty properties occupied.   She is hoping to get a list of empty properties.

She asked for residents to contact her in relation to dog fouling. GCC enforcement officers can investigate if there have been violations of the law. She has Councillor surgeries in other areas of the city but does not have a venue in the city centre. So, she asked if people in the MCTCC area wish to contact her to do so directly. A meeting will then be arranged.

She commends MCTCC for having put-up posters in many areas to encourage people to take part in the MCTCC Local Place Plan survey.

The Glasgow Get Active fund is now open:

https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/sport/funding/get-active-glasgow-fund

Also, there is now some free training from the Scottish Drug Forum; details can be found at:  https://www.sdftraining.org.uk/training

Cllr Bolander Questions

Scott confirmed that the surgery details for elected members would be posted on the MCTCC website. Ward Councillors who have not yet provided these should do these via the Secretary.

Ross said the Parnie St consultation is one the initiatives to raise property standards which will also be enhanced by the new King St car park development.

Cllr Bolander reported new funding has been allocated to renovate tenements. This will be done by City Building. Renovation work on the High St buildings was completed last year on the upper side, and new works are continuing. Rachel enquired if the work would extend to the Parnie St area and this was confirmed.

EM noted a large pothole in Parnie St near the junction of Chisholm St.

David Cowan asked if the redundant BT phone boxes on Trongate and elsewhere in the city centre could be removed. Cllr Millar agreed and asked for this to be put in an email to him.

5. LOCAL PLACE PLAN (LPP) & MATTERS ARISING

David Hughes explained how the MCTCC LPP will be part of the next GCC City Plan. This is a 5 year plan which lists in detail what GCC policies are.

We have developed a draft LPP and have concluded our survey of local residents to see what their main issues are, e.g. such as how local land is used or lack of social housing.

Posters have been designed and printed including a QR code, website details and dates and locations where we would be present and handing out leaflets. The closing date of the survey is the 31st of October.

The results will allow the LPP to be amended, after which it will be submitted to GCC for validation. After this, it will be sent-out to our neighbouring community councils.

6. FOOTBALL FAN CELEBRATIONS

Alasdair McDougall from Kaukab Stewart MSP’s office informed us a second summit will take place at Hampden Park in December. It will be attended by many of the stakeholders who attended the first meeting on 28th February.  Cllr Millar noted that elected members are meeting this week and we will be fed-in afterwards.

7. PLANNING

Ross Naismith gave a brief report on several planning applications: –

King St carpark – He attended a meeting with case officers.  He commended the planning application with five points for review.

He has concerns about the time taking for applications to go through the planning process. Greater transparency of applications is required.

The Maxwell St Radisson hearing is now on the 18th of November. It is being considered by GCC Senior Officers. RN has requested that the proposals are  formally presented to MCTCC.

Trongate and Hutchinson St: the student accommodation application has been withdrawn on a technicality but will proceed later.

Candleriggs: Further to a meeting in September, a recent email said it has progressed to the ‘technical stage’ to formulate plans. He has asked for these plans to be presented to MCTCC when ready.

The Queen St and Ingram St pedestrianisation is being considered.

Scott is setting up a meeting with the new director of the St. Enoch Centre. Cllr Bolander noted how plans for Buchanan Shopping Centre have changed, and this may be the case for changes for St Enoch’s. We have now recovered from the drop in shoppers after Covid.

Cllr Millar gave an update on ‘the Golden Z’ of Sauchiehall St, Buchanan St and Argyle St. It remains a core part of the City Centre Strategy.

8. LICENSING

Gary has seen no licensing applications this month. There is a joint group meeting for the Glasgow Licensing Board on the 5th of December.

Scott noted an online meeting about Short Term Lets on the 12th of November.

9. AREA PARTNERSHIP AND JAG

David Cowan and Rachel Angus will be the Joint Action Group representatives.

10. FRIENDS OF RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD (FoRG)

David Hughes reported over the summer there were 15 tours, including by the Impact Acts and Project Ability charities. FoRG is now looking to add capacity for tours and has asked for volunteers to be tour guides. Thanks to donations they have a bank balance of £1375.44.

11. UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS

These were covered in email correspondence and elsewhere in meetings.

12. RECYCLING FACILITIES

Scott attended a meeting today with Baillie Mearns and others about lack of recycling facilities in our area. They discussed possible locations for new bins.

13. PIGEONS / SEAGULLS

This was covered by Cllr Braat.

14. LEZ FUNDING

MCTCC has lodged a second application to the LEZ fund for more trees in our area.

15. WEBSITE

Niall reported there have been around 1000 views of the website this month this month, the same as last month.  The most popular page was the LPP page. There were 700 visitors to the Facebook site.

The Chair explained how we are hoping to develop the website’s Whats On section.

The repair and cleaning of the MCTCC noticeboards were discussed.

16. FILMING

Gordon will issue an invoice to a film production company recently filming in the area.

17. TREASURER’S REPORT

Gordon Millar reported the bank balance of £8893.22.  We have spent £1000 on the Owl meeting recorder and we have received £3500 from filming donations. 

18. COMMUNITY COUNCIL VACANCY

There is now a vacancy within MCTCC for a Community Councillor (CC). Applicants must be over 16, live within the Ward 10 boundary and be able to attend meetings on a regular basis. More information is available on our new website. If interested, please fill out the webform on the website or send any enquiries to:  info@mctcc.scot

 

19. AoCB

David Cowan emailed GCC re. private landlords statistics. GCC said they will provide these in the near future.

Peter Hayman commended the talk by Glasgow historian Neil Baxter with extracts from his new book ‘Greyfriars, Blackfriars and Deep-fat Fryers!’ Cllr Bolander will invite him to an MCTCC meeting, at the request of the Chair.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 25^th of November – 6.30-8.30 pm in City Chambers.

Annual General Meeting, 28th October 2025

MCTCC were delighted to hold their Annual General Meeting in the City Chambers on Tuesday 28th October 2025.  Our Chair reported on a very busy year – the full report is below, and we also approved the minutes of our 2024 AGM.

Office bearers for the coming year were elected:

• Chairman – Scott Thornton
• Vice-Chair – Gary Atkinson
• Secretary – Niall McColl
• Treasurer – Gordon Millar
• Planning Lead – Ross Naismith
• Licensing Lead – Gary Atkinson
• Area Partnership Lead – David Hughes
• Joint Action Group (JAG) Representatives – Rachel Angus, David Cowan

Our next AGM will be on Tuesday 27th October, 2026.

Chair’s Report to the 2025 AGM

This is submitted by Vice-Chairs Gary Atkinson and Scott Thornton following the decision of Chair Tam Coyle to take temporary leave of absence from Community Council work.

In 2025 Glasgow city centre began undergoing its biggest upgrade in half a century, with a total of 16 streets being redesigned into Avenues.

Since several of the biggest projects, including redevelopment of George Square, are in the Merchant City and Trongate Community Council (MCTCC) area it has been a particularly busy year. The pace will accelerate in 2026 and beyond.

This has coincided with the 50th anniversary of Community Councils in Scotland – a proud record.

On a broader front various actions were taken forward within the Area Partnership (AP) of Community Councils within GCC Ward 10. At the most recent meeting  we secured funding for the renovation of the Tron Tower steeple and will continue to press for our area to receive its fair share of allocations from the AP’s Neighbour Infrastructure Improvement Fund.

On the Glasgow City Council (GCC) level office bearers have held many high level officers to present local residents’ views, aspirations and suggestions. These have notably included discussions, many initiated by our Planning Lead Ross Naismith, on Avenues and related projects. We – and the community – are grateful for his drive, determination and specialist knowledge.

MCTCC has not held back from expressing objections and putting forward alternatives where we believed these were justified and will continue to work with GCC in a spirit of partnership.

On George Square we vigorously, but unsuccessfully, pressed for inclusion of a water feature which we believe would have better highlighted Glasgow’s ambition.

Next year GCC will unveil its new City Development Plan (CDP), shaping Glasgow for the next 5-10 years, and MCTCC has been playing its part.

Under the leadership of David Hughes, and with public consultations co-ordinated by David Cowan and Niall McColl, we have drafted our own Local Place Plan (LPP) which will feed into the CDP. This is one of the most important documents ever prepared by this Community Council. It has highlighted the absence in Merchant City and Trongate of any community park, children’s playpark or community hub. We shall continue to fight for all three.

MCTCC has been among the most pro-active critics of the surge in Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) and is looking forward to taking part in a GCC public consultation in 2026. Objections are summarised in our LPP which seeks to make better use of land and property.

We have sought a moratorium on PBSAs and an increase on social housing and accommodation for families as GCC seeks to double the city centre population.

We put forward objections by local residents and businesses to planning applications by Homeless Project Scotland for its shelter and kitchen on Glassford Street, and will continue to monitor the situation on their behalf.

During the year we welcomed the arrival of the stylish Social Hub on Candleriggs.

MCTCC helped initiate a top level meeting, convened at Hampden Park by Glasgow Kelvin MSP Kaukab Stewart, with officials of the Scottish Professional Football League, Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government, Police Scotland and Celtic and Rangers’ football clubs, to try to prevent a recurrence of large scale anti-social behaviour at and around Glasgow Cross by Celtic fans celebrating their team’s Premiership win in May. This has not yet yielded positive results and together with our neighbouring Calton Community Council we will continue to press for a lasting solution.

We have vigorously pursued various campaigns including the need for more recycling facilities, clean-ups of derelict construction sites and abandoned buildings, better control of busking and rough sleeping in the city centre, measures to stop graffiti and deter pigeon and seagull nuisance, and increase the number of trees (preferably planted ‘in ground’), a crack-down on pavement parking, and have called for a moratorium on parades – many of them sectarian.

During the year, under the leadership of David Hughes, MCTCC took the initiative to set up a Friends of the Ramshorn Graveyard (FORG). Tours of this historic graveyard, burial place of many of the city’s ‘Tobacco Barons,’ other rich merchants and city fathers and predating the Necropolis by more than 100 years, attracted 15 public tours and 251 attendees – including members of Impact Arts and Project Ability – over the summer.

We have played our part in improving the local environment by carrying out several litter picks.

MCTCC improved its reach-out to the local community with a new Website (mctcc.scot) which will be further enhanced in 2026 with information on local events and attractions. The main credit goes to Niall McColl who has also significantly increased our presence on Social Media.

We remain most appreciative of the ability to hold our monthly meetings in the splendid and inspiring surroundings of City Chambers and would like to record our appreciation of the assistance of duty management and security staff.

Our thanks go to our Ward Councillors (Eva Bolander, Philip Braat, Baillie Christie Mearns and Angus Millar) for their advice, assistance and interventions during the year. We realise we are only one of the many organisations and committees to which they devote their valuable time. Our constituency MP, John Grady, has also made himself readily available for help and advice.

Our regular meetings with Police Scotland (at Inspector and beat level) have again proved useful and informative. We appreciate police officers attending our monthly meetings to provide reports and answer residents’ questions and requests.

Other than a small annual administration grant from Glasgow City Council we rely on outside donations. Most of these have come from film companies as compensation for the inconvenience caused to local residents. This has allowed us to make contributions to various local good causes.

We are grateful to GCC’s Community Councils’ section which organised and facilitated useful training courses and meetings during the year.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will bring tens of thousands of visitors to Glasgow and we look forward to playing our part in welcoming them and making Scotland’s largest city an even more pleasant place in which to live and work.

Thanks are due to all Community Councillors who have served during the year. All are volunteers with many other commitments. Giving up much of their valuable time is evidence of their dedication to the local community and Glasgow as a whole.

In addition to Ross, the Community Council has been greatly strengthened in 2025 by the arrival of Rachel Angus who has already been active on many fronts.

During the year Community Councillor Colin McKay resigned. We are grateful to him for his contribution.

We need more local residents to join us to help fulfil one of the main  aims of our Constitution which is ‘to act as a voice for the local area on any matters affecting the community’s lives, welfare and environment.’

Lastly but certainly not least, we would like to pay tribute to Tam Coyle who has a remarkable record of 20 years as a Community Councillor and has led MCTCC with distinction. We look forward to his return to continue to provide guidance and inspiration.

Meeting Minutes, 30 September 2025

Attended by: Scott Thornton (Acting Chair), Niall McColl, Ross Naismith, Gordon Millar, Gary Atkinson, Ros Atkinson, David Hughes, Rachel Angus, Peter Hayman, Cllr Angus Millar, Cllr Philip Braat, Bailie Christy Mearns. Emma Hargreaves and Ciaran Buchanan Principal Officer from GCC Avenues Project. PC Rapi and PC Clark.

TM, DF, PP, TD, RA, E. Mills.  By Zoom video: Bailie Christy Mearns and AG

1. Welcome And Apologies

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Tam Coyle (Chair), Cllr Eva Bolander and Gregor McIntyre from John Grady MP office.

2. Minutes Of Previous Meeting On 26 August

Adoption proposed by Gary Atkinson and seconded by Niall McColl.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

3. Police Report

PC Rapi read out the crime statistics for the last month. From the 1^st September to 30^th September there were a total 98 crimes reported, of which 55 were detected and 43 undetected. The number of detections may rise in the near future.

The Retail Crime Task Force were deployed in the MCTCC area.  The police have given increased focus to Virginia St, Glassford St, Argyle St and Trongate following concerns raised at previous meetings.

Police Questions

Rachel Angus asked about Virginia Court, PC Rapi reported he hadspoken to residents about the broken magnetic gate in particular. DF asked if enough incidents were reported, would this lead to consistent monitoring.  PC Clark noted how the more incidents reported helped the police get a greater perspective where resources are required most. PC Rapi advised how anti-social behaviour should be reported by dialing 101 or, for non-urgent matters, use the webform on Police Scotland website:- https://www.scotland.police.uk/secureforms/c3/

TM has noted persistent drug use in the Ramshorn Graveyard. The police have been monitoring the area. It could be that drug mis-use is taking place at night. As the gates are locked, it could be they are climbing over the wall. It will be flagged-up to the Area Response Team.

A resident reported that someone tried to open their front door. PC Rapi advised to dial 999 if this happens to anyone.

Gary noted media reports of increased drugs deaths in Scotland. He would like to know if there are statistics for our area specifically and adjoining areas. This would allow to see how effective of Safer Drug Consumption Facility, based at Hunter St, has been. Cllr Millar noted the statistics, it is a pilot project which supervises intravenous drug use.  However, there are other types of drugs mis-use.

4.  Presentation From East Argyle St Avenues Project

Emma Hargreaves, from The Avenues Team, shared a brief presentation to provide an update on the Argyle St East Avenues Project. It starts at Union St and extends to the start to beginning of Trongate. The project will install a road along the pedestrian precinct to allow for bus and taxis only. It aims to improve greening, public seating, install a segregated bicycle lane and faster travel on public transport. Specialist designers were brought-in. More information is available at:-
https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/article/13444/Transformation-of-Argyle-Street-to-continue-through-new-Avenue-project
There are 4 construction phases. GCC has set out a timeline for the contract to be awarded in January 2026 to allow for work to start in March. It is expected that Sections 1 and 2 will take 2 years to complete and the project to be accomplished by March 2029. Technical drawings of the project were circulated.
Information on the Stockwell St Avenues Project will start late 2026 and finish in summer 2027. There will a separate public presentation held on the High St Avenues Project which will also start late 2026 and finish in spring 2028.

East Argyle St Avenues Project Questions

Emma Hargreaves assured the meeting the precinct will still be pedestrian friendly, and the road will be closed to public cars and only for buses and taxis. The road will operate as a Bus Gate, similar to others located around the city centre.

TM asked if there will be boarding up as in other projects such as around George Square. Emma confirmed each section will have boards erected with ‘visualisations’ pictures of the final streetscapes shall be. Ross agreed that there should be more publicity.

Cllr Millar will take interest in the production of new images of the website for this project. Ros Atkinson recommended there be QR code, or have the website listed on the display posters to allow for people to get more information.

Ross attended a GCC meeting two weeks prior stating its commitment to planting trees. He preferred trees in the ground instead of planters.

Niall McColl enquired whether it was best to have all this building work going on just as Glasgow was about to host its second Commonwealth Game the summer of 2026.

Rachel Angus asked whether trees could be planted directly into the ground on Argyle Street. Emma Hargreaves explained that this is not possible due to underground utility cables and plumbing. She added that tree planters are likely to be used instead. Rachel then asked if in-ground tree planting would be prioritised over planters in other avenue project areas wherever feasible, and Emma confirmed that it would.

Gary Atkinson noted MCTCC have put a grant application in progress to potentially improve the area around the Tron Theatre clock tower. As such, it would be good to work together on the second phase of this project that will extend to Saltmarket.

Eileen Mills asked if it was right to change a successful pedestrian area by putting a road through it. Cieran Buchanan noted it would improve bus travel times and allow for improvement to Queen St, Ingram St and Stockwell St.

Cllr Millar provided an update on the ‘Do Not Feed the Birds’ signage previously discussed. There is not publicly the owned infrastructure to attach these signs to, such as poles. This may change once the Avenue project is completed on Argyle St.

5. Elected Members’ Reports

Cllr Philip Braat reported he, and Cllr Millar, were notified of stickers attached to lampposts containing defamatory comments. Arrangements were made to have these removed by GCC Officers. There will be potential fines to businesses, and individuals, on Argyle St and Sauchiehall St for littering.

Cllr Braat has made enquiries about the legalities of hawking in the city centre (money raising in the street) but has not had an answer.

Trees were damaged on Queen St and Buchanan St due the recent Storm Amy. He has reported these and is awaiting a response.

He noted that some outdoor seating in Exchange Square may not comply with the required 2m clearance between bollards and the pavement. He agreed to investigate whether the current seating arrangements are compliant.

Signage should have been raised by now notifying that certain roads will be closed for the Great Scottish Run this Sunday 5^th of October.

Bailie Christie Mearns has forwarded the list from Scott of the preferred location of new public Recycling Hubs in the Merchant City and Trongate.

At the Area Partnership (AP) meeting last week the football fan celebrations in Trongate each summer was discussed. Pressure for change should be maintained.  It is agreed mitigations ought to be planned out in advance, otherwise it will soon be spring and too late to organise. She agrees with Kaukab Stewart MSP there must be a multi-agency approach.

South Portland Bridge funding has recently been brought within the remit of Avenues funding stream. She is interested to see the design drawings to bring the bridge back to its original heritage standards. An improved lighting scheme would be welcome.

She recently met with Clutha Vaults bar management last week and heard about the good work they are doing.  They are trying to make the vacant section of land nearby, which is not in the Avenues project, could be pedestrianised.

The pedestrianisation of Candleriggs is not being progressed through NIF funding as it is not a publicly owned site. As such, it will be financed by the Roads Department instead, the timescale has not been specified.

The AP has allocated funding for the Tron  clock tower. Seating benches are to be relocated, there will be consultation on where to.

A Planning Assessment will take place for the Vodka Vodka bar signage.

Cllr Angus Millar, with members of MCTCC, had a successful walk survey to identify various local issues. The Neighbourhood Liaison Officer is working through list made.  There will be a follow-up survey of redundant poles on Glassford St and Stockwell St.

He had a meeting with City Property regarding vacant property in Parnie St and the Trongate area to try to bring them back into use, He has been advised there will be challenges and so has asked for a briefing with GCC officers to specify what these are. When he receives this information. He will share this information with MCTCC.

The Tron Theatre Steeple will be renovated as part of The High Street Strategy.  There is an online ‘story map’ in which you can follow a virtual The Heritage Trail which can be accessed through the link below:

https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/article/1800/Walking–and–Heritage–Trails

This includes an Interpretation Strategy which explains how GCC will physically tell the stories the High St evolution. These will be incorporated into information boards which advertise The Avenues project and incorporate a QR code to the historical information gathered by Glasgow Life,

He sent an email to MCTCC explaining he secured just under £500k from the Placement Fund to replace the lighting of the South Portland Bridge as well as improvements to Calton Place and south part of The Clyde River. He had a meeting with design team involved who hope to produce plans for consultation soon and allow for work to begin.

There was a meeting with MCTC and the Transport Team on what was the best way forward for traffic reduction and more pedestrianisation. Due to there being less buses traffic around Merchant City due the above Argle St East Avenue Project, it is likely there will new plans on how to increase pedestrian space for the public.

Cllr Questions

Scott noted he as seen new recycling facilities located around the city. He requested a follow-up meeting with Gary and Cllrs in the near future.  He is looking forward to an update from Louise Stewart, the Neighbourhood Liaison Officer, on the issues raised the recent survey walk.

Gordon Millar welcomed the clean-up of riverbank on the southside by the Cala Homes development at South Portland Street. Cllr Millar agreed and clarified he was referring to specialised cleaning taking place over the riverbank fence.  Ross enquired if the future clean-up measures at Calton Place were from funds relating Custom House Quay planning application. Cllr Millar confirmed they were not, they are part of the annual Place Fund.

PP asked if the new funds for South Portland Bridge included the footpath and they were considered not fit for purpose. Cllr Millar will raise this matter with the funders.

Baillie Mearns has been in contact with The Amsterdam bar regarding the lack of clearance for pedestrians to pass by due to the space taken-up by their outdoor seating.  Rachel Angus noted this has set a precedent for other businesses to impinge on the public path.

Cllr Millar said it was the Roads Department to enforce these boundaries in the first instance, and then the Licencing Dept. afterwards. As such, it can be a lengthy process. Rachel requested that greater pressure be placed on premises to adhere to the regulations set by both departments.

It was discussed if feeding the birds can be classed as littering. Cllr Millar did not know of a previous instance of this.

Scott mentioned that St. Enoch Square has a numerous trip hazards paving issues and the lights on the trees are falling off. He will mention this to manager of St Enoch Centre.

It was discussed briefly what the benefits of Argyle St East Avenue project were. There would be less walking space and possible safety issues. Millar noted he was not consulted on the plan. David Cowan had no recollection of any consultation taking place in the past.

Rachel Angus noted how planters have been used as ashtrays and bins by the public, and that some graffiti had appeared on one. It would be good if the street cleaners or the maintenance team for planters could empty them of debris on a regular basis and clean any graffiti.  Rachel also noted that this issue should be taken into consideration where there are plans to use planters in the avenues project and in the city centre in general.

Celtic Fan Celebrations

Scott gave a background of the work that had been done on this subject to date. Recently he and Gary had arranged twice tried to meet with Kaukab Stewart MSP.  It may now be time to contact Celtic FC and other football governing bodies.

MCTCC have sent a FOI request to Police Scotland requesting the cost for policing this event in which it is estimated 320 police officers were present, however it was returned saying they do not know the costs. Cllr Millar helped MCTCC be informed of the £20k cost incurred by GCC.

Tricia Fort, Chair of Calton CC, saying the celebrations in Trongate will not happen again, but no details of what alternative arrangements are being made, if any.

Gary recommended setting-up a meeting with GCC Chief Executive and city centre stakeholders with a view to keeping-up the momentum on this topic. It is not for MCTCC to create an alternative event, it is for other bodies.

6. Local Place Plan (Lpp) & Matters Arising

Scott has spoken to Fiona Campbell about MCTCC Local Place Plan (LPP) compiled by David Hughes and made presentable by Niall McColl.  More details on the website:-

https://mctcc.scot/local–place–plan/

David Cowan will manage the public surveys on Trongate and in St Enochs Centre on the 14^th and 16^th of October, and Scott on the 21^st and 23^rd of October in the same locations.

7. Planning

Ross Naismith gave a brief report on several planning applications: –

The King St Car Park response has now been submitted with commendation. The developer will now presumably apply for Planning Permission in Principle (PPP).

Old Wynd at Oswald St planning application has been successful, despite his objections. This has now gone up for sale again.

151 Trongate, on the corner of Old Wynd has also gone on sale also. It’s planning application has been ongoing for a year, is still ‘under consideration’, and is for student accommodation. However, the advertising poster on the building at present says it has consent.

The Maxwell St application for an 18-storey hotel is having a consultation event on the 4^th of November. He has been invited to represent MCTCC.

He has engaged with stakeholders about how to improve the public and private housing portfolio in Trongate. Rachel will now take the lead on this.

He met with Sustainable Transport last month to discuss ways to improve Candleriggs, Ingram St and Queen St which was constructive. He is awaiting feedback from them.

He met with Scottish Enterprise early September; he put forward his plans however it was rejected for understandable reasons. The matter is now closed.

Ross Naismith stated that he remains concerned about Avenues developments, in general, and the Argyle Street (East) proposals, in detail, after the earlier GCC presentation. He plans to discuss this with MCTCC Community Councillors at the next (October) MMM, and will report back on agreed actions, if any, from that at subsequent Pubic Meetings.

8.  Submission To Lez Fund

Ross will soon submit MCTCC’s second grant application to the LEZ Fund. The details have been sent to CC members for feedback by tomorrow. It requests tree planning. He would like the LEZ grant may be supplemented by Ward 10 Area Partnership Fund allocations.

9. Updates From Previous Meetings

There is no updates on this matter this month.

10. Licensing

Gary has not received any email notifications. He will raise this with the Licencing Forum.

11. Filming

Niall explained that although the funding from the filming is beneficial, it does cause disruption to traffic, as well as pedestrians, in our area. For example, at 8am this week Ingram St and surrounding streets were gridlocked.  Another example was a section of Hight St being closed for 3 days recently.

It could be argued that the compensation is not commensurate with disruption caused, or the road closures should be temporarily eased at times to allow better traffic flow.

12. Friends Of Ramshorn Graveyard (FORG)

There was no update this month.

13. Area Partnership

David Hughes was unable to attend but will give an update at the next meeting.

14. Treasurer’s Report

Gordon reported a current bank balance of £6,855.57. This includes payment from SP Film Productions of £1000. Other film companies are yet to deposit.

There were some costs for the website of just under £121.  He has drafted the accounts for August 2025.

15. Community Council Vacancy

There is now a vacancy within MCTCC for a Community Councillor (CC).

It is advertised on the MCTCC website. Applicants must live within MCTCC boundary and be able to attend meetings on a regular basis. More information is available on our website. If interested please fill out the webform on the website or send any enquiries to:  info@mctcc.scot

16.  Website

Niall is working towards having an additional person trained to update the website. MCTCC also has Facebook, Instagram and X to keep updated.

17. AoCB

There is debate whether to stay part of the Ward 10 Joint Action Group, attended by Tam, Gary and Scott, will be discussed in the near future.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 28^th of October 

AGM 6 – 6.30pm

Full Meeting 6.30-8.30 in City Chambers.

Meeting Minutes, 26 August 2025

 

Attended by: Tam Coyle (Chair), Niall McColl, Ross Naismith, Gordon Millar, Gary Atkinson, Ros Atkinson, David Hughes, Rachel Angus, Peter Hayman, Councillor Philip Braat,  PC Ruth Mctaggart, Gregor McIntyre from John Grady MP’s office

TM, GF, MG, E Mills .  By Zoom video: JR, E Martin

1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES

Tam Coyle welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Scott Thornton, Councillor Angus Millar & Depute Lord Provost Christy Mearns, David and Alice Cowan.

2. ELECTION OF ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY COUNCILLOR

The deadline for nominations was Friday 8 August. There was one nomination, Rachel Angus, who was elected unopposed at this public meeting.

3. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING ON 29 APRIL

Adoption proposed by Tam Coyle, seconded by Ross Naismith.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

4. POLICE REPORT

WPC Ruth Mctaggart read out the crime statistics for the last month. From the 1^st August to 23rd of August there were a total 92 crimes reported, of which 60 were detected.

The police are proactive in monitoring Virginia St, New Wynd and Old Wynd and Trongate for drug use and anti-social behaviour.  They are always on the look out for shoplifting and carry out days of action for particular issues.

TC raised the incident at Murphy’s Bar on Saturday night (23/8), DH highlighted drug paraphernalia issues at the Ramshorn Graveyard and RA noted that Virginia Lane, had some drug needles.  There is anti-social behaviour going on in several areas of the city however any place that offers some shelter are more frequently used.

JR raised the noise levels in Candleriggs (venues with doors open, possibly in the area of Gracies Bar), which will be reviewed going forward .

5. ELECTED MEMBERS’ REPORTS

There were no reports available.

TC raised the complaints relating to the issue of noise from current Filming projects, with works starting as early as 3.30am in the Merchant City. The issue has been raised with the GCC Film Office and an urgent meeting has been requested.

6. LOCAL PLACE PLAN & MATTERS ARISING

It was noted that Land and Properties were available in the MCTCC area to be incorporated into the Plan.
A revised draft Plan would be produced after the scheduled meeting on 2 September (7.00 to 8.30pm), with a completed draft targeted for the 10 September. The draft would then be published for the MCTCC community to consider and give feedback, prior to submission to Glasgow City Council (noting the 1 month statutory period of consultation).

7. PLANNING

Ross Naismith gave his report on several planning applications: –

Candleriggs – RN noted progress with Contact from the Sustainable Transport team at the Council. Ross will be attending a workshop on 29 August, prior to Communications to local residents.

King St Carpark (Planning in Principle Application)– RN noted that the revised application had been submitted and was on the whole a good submission and good to see the plans progressing for this area, with a lot of detail. The plans are still being reviewed, as there have been changes from the initial planning submission.

Improvements to Residential Property in King street area– Ross attended a walkabout of the area with Councillor Angus Millar and other interested parties  Looking to work with representatives of  grant allocating groups (strategic planners and Housing Associations) to improve the standing of a housing block in the Trongate area. RN noted that this also tied into the King Street Carpark application.

Custom House Quay – RN said that he submitted a letter of support for the application with a commendation.  RN requested that the Phase 1 & 2 of the construction project follow on quickly to avoid delays, as have been raised on several of the Avenues Projects.

St Enochs Square – RN queried if there had been any updates from the Developer / Council (update from Councillor Angus Millar)

Tree Planting Initiative – has a Case Officer been appointed to manage the scheme (update from Councillor Angus Millar)

Excess Stantion removal Initiative – RN met a Case Officer on 12 Aug and RN will follow up on progressing action.

Greenspace behind The Italian Kitchen restaurant (Albion St)– The land is owned by Scottish Enterprise and managed by Strathclyde university. They are open to the area being used as an exercise area and a meeting is scheduled for Thu 28 Aug, with Scottish Enterprise.

The Avenues Projects – Cllr Millar has agreed to meet with Ross to discuss his concerns. Meeting 1.30pm George Sq Wed 17 Sept (3 MCTCC Reps) RN stated that the ‘Avenues’ proposals, in our MCTCC area, do not have his confidence. All Avenues projects in the MCTCC area are still “In Design” and hence we believe that there is still time to influence the scope of the Projects. Concerns remain over design detail and Construction schedule as well as the limited communication on the Avenues project.

George Square – MCTCC are still in favour of there being a water feature in George Square. Ross Naismith has asked to see final technical drawings, in order to validate that the proposed during Concept Stage is being delivered and has anything else been removed from the scheme?

8. LICENSING

2 applications received – no Issues

9. UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS

Moratorium – No progress with Glasgow City Council after correspondence with Susan Aitkin.

Celtic Fans Title Party: – A follow-up meeting on 21st August with Tam, Scott and Gary to discuss possible future actions was cancelled by our MSP, due to a diary mix up. Meeting date was 28 Aug, which MCTCC were unable to attend. Waiting for a new date for MCTCC to be arranged.

Police costs FOI: – RA asked if there was any update on the Police costs and Council Clean up costs. No progress as yet (ST to follow up)

10. AREA PARTNERSHIP

Concern raised by DH on the lack of minute taking at the Area Partnership and no actions being documented. TC will raise. Councillor Phil Braat commented that this was an issue across most committees in the Council.

GA – asked if MCTCC can ask the Area Partnership for a copy of the Action Minutes from the meeting (Action Gary & Scott)

11. FRIENDS OF RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD (FoRG)

The tourism sales are going very well, there have been 13 tours so far with 2 to go, with 209 clients, raising £867.45. All tours are fully booked in August and September thanks to David Fox and Caroline Dunlop.  Still some issues relating to the opening and closing of the Gates, which has now been resolved.

12. FILMING

TC raised the number of complaints on the early works (from 3.30am) relating to current Filming projects. TC is trying to contact the Film office to discuss residents concerns on 27 Aug and ST has a scheduled meeting on Friday 29 August.

There will be New Filming starting 25-30 September with Cochrane street and surrounding area will be closed from 7.30am to 10pm creating significant traffic issues with Buses on Ingram street.

13. TREASURER’S REPORT

Gordon reported a current bank balance of £5,976.54. There were no expenses this month. A payment is due to the Social Hub as the MCTCC contribution to the New Mural (£500).

SP Film Productions have pledged £1000, that is still outstanding and a further £1,500 has been pledged, awaiting details to issue the invoice.

14. AoCB

City Hall fans – no response from the Council regarding the noise problem and the absence of planning permission for the fans.

John Grady MP available for surgeries, after returning from the summer recess. Picking up an issue of a retail tenant with City Properties

Clutha Trust has been given permission to close Clyde street for the 4 day Community event.

Walkabout with Councillor Millar was regarded as very positive.

Spiderman fixtures changed for Filming have not been fully reinstated. Councillor Braat will follow up and asked for details (Action NMc)

The “Connected streets” project have asked to present to the next MCTCC meeting

Website – all asked to provide any content to NMc

AGM coming up in 2 months time, please let TC know if you wish to stand

E- Bike Bill board adverts parked on the pavement in Brunswick street. RA raised a concern that these adverts were possibly inappropriate. Can we review the Council licencing process for these operators. Potential difficulty to enforce any issues.

Commonwealth Games – GM asked if there had been any communication from the Commonwealth Games organisers that may impact on the MCTCC area, particularly when George Square is closed during the games. Councillor Braat suggested that Communication would probably pick up closer to the New Year and will see if the Council have had any information.

Scottish Parliament Elections – potential hustings for the MCTCC area – Action TC to consider the opportunity.

Pigeons – RA highlighted the possible actions to take , including the previously discussed Hawking option. RA will continue to pursue Businesses to take some action (further discuss at next MMM). RA suggested Hawk kites as an option.

GA raised the possibility of starting a “City Ambassador” volunteer role, that may link in to the Commonwealth Games

HPS – MCTCC view is that there is nothing we can do to participate in the current planning issue. Primarily an issue for Councillor Casey who has Homelessness as his key portfolio.

Doors Open start 1 Sept

DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 30th September, 6.30-8.30 in City Chambers.