Meeting Minutes, 31 January 2023

Attended by: Tam Coyle (Chair), Ward Councillors Eva Bolander and Angus Millar, PCs Rob Wilson and Sean McFadden, Gary Atkinson, Peter Hayman, Niall McColl, Eileen Mills, Scott Thornton, Ros Wardley-Smith, TD, BG, MG, CMcK, GM, IO, GS

Attended by video link: Ward Councillor Baillie Christy Mearns, EM, GM, GS

1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES

Apologies received from Ward Councillor Philip Braat, Carla Arrighi, David Cowan, AL

Tam welcomed attendees to MCTCC’s first meeting of 2023.

2. POLICE REPORT

PC Wilson said there had been very successful police crackdowns on drug dealers, with assistance from embedded officers in housing associations.

Community police had been liaising with parking enforcement officers on problems with pavement parking on Candleriggs and in surrounding areas. Enforcement officers were unable to do some work after 6 pm because of health and safety issues and had to be accompanied by a uniformed officer. They would be providing details to police of repeat offenders, which streets were affected and dates and times of contraventions. Street furniture may need to be moved.

Tam said drivers were often using Candleriggs as a ’rat run’, ignoring ‘No entry’ signs. Double parking and parking on pavements were widespread. Cars were double parked on Miller Street on Saturday night.

PC Wilson said extra funding had been provided under the City Centre Regeneration scheme for police to spend additional hours in February and March on parking and other issues such as anti-social behaviour, especially on the riverfront, from St Enoch south and Merchant City.

PC Wilson agreed with BG that the NCP car park in Glassford Street was a known drug dealing hotspot.

Replying to a query from AG about Virginia Street of Ingram Street Eva said this was under regular police surveillance.

TD complained about poor lighting on traffic signage and food delivery cyclists riding without lights after dark. PC Wilson said attempts to correct this had encountered a language barrier but the issue would be reviewed.

In answer to a question from Scott, PC Wilson said whether riding a cycle without lights after dark was illegal depended on the circumstances.

CMcK raised again the issue of over-amplified noise from buskers outside the Debenhams entrance, with groups using it as a shelter-cum-stage. Buskers often moved on to another location and it was difficult to track them down. PC Wilson said it was illegal to use an amplifier after 9 pm. A couple of formal warnings had been given to buskers on Buchanan Street.

Scott said that at a previous MCTCC meeting he had been told anyone who wished to complain about noisy buskers should lodge this through the Police Scotland Website. He had done so on 20 December but not received a response. PC Wilson said he would look into this.

MD said there was no cohesive inter-agency effort to stop late night noise from licensed premises and mentioned an example of breach of licence. He had called 101 many times and was told this was not a police matter. He believed it was up to Glasgow City Council to stamp this out. PC Wilson said officers researched information daily from their central command database and used information from GCC and the Community Council.

Tam said he would take up the specific issue of Delmonica’s with PC Wilson.

Tam said five people had been arrested on one night in Connollys. PC Wilson replied he could not comment as this case was before the courts.

3. PRESENTATION ON DISTRICT REGENERATION FRAMEWORK (DRF)

Ian Elder (IE) from Glasgow City Council explained the DRF proposals and urged residents to take part in a public consultation which will remain open until 3 March (See https://mctcc.scot/2023/01/22/public-consultation-district-regeneration-frameworks/). One of the districts being looked at is Merchant City.

Proposals in documents showed GCC’s commitment to sustainability through the circular economy, creation of a network of open spaces and active travel networks, and re-purposing of properties. GCC wanted to enhance the greening of Merchant City. Some funding was available but the DRF was not fully funded. It was unlikely to provide park space within Merchant City.

A focal point was the upgrade of the High Street station and surrounds and its connections with other parts of the overall scheme. There may be uses for the Union rail line but this was owned by Network Rail.

Tam said Council planners’ recommendation to approve the felling of 21 mature trees, the last such in Merchant City, in order to build 109 apartments on the NCP car park site in Ingram street was economic vandalism. A meeting of GCC’s Planning Applications Committee on 7 February was the most important event in the past 20 years of MCTCC. It was extremely disappointing that only four of the 143 objectors were being allowed a mere three minutes each to address the committee.

He said there was a perception that cars would be barred from Miller Street which would be pedestrianised, with a cycle lane. Eva said there had never been any intention to totally pedestrianise it.

In answer to a question from MD, IE said it was highly unlikely that Wilson Street

would be considered as a future ‘Avenue’. He promised to follow-up comments made at this meeting.

Mandy asked if traffic in Ingram Street would become even busier as a result of the changes. Angus said traffic restrictions around George Square were already in place.

4. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING ON 29 NOVEMBER

Adoption proposed by Niall, seconded by Tam. Approved.

5. TREASURER’S REPORT

In Carla’s absence Niall said MCTCC had £9,972 in the bank following donations from film companies who had used Merchant City.

Scott said a sub-group of MCTCC (the two Vice-Chairs and Niall) was meeting on 13 February to set criteria for grant giving and asked anyone with suggestions for projects to send them to MCTCC by that date if possible.

6. ELECTED MEMBERS’ REPORTS

Eva said she would report back about the High Street redevelopment.

Complaints had been received about late night work on the Saltmarket bridge. Network Rail had tried to mitigate the disruption. The line was still being used during the day, hence the requirement for late night work. Scott said the Chair of Calton Community Council, in whose area the work was currently being undertaken, had told him it had received no complaints.

Eva said there were examples around the world of good use of disused rail lines.

Suggestions were invited for spending some of the £100,000 allocated for greening the city centre. These would have to take account of what utilities lay under the proposed street locations.

Scott asked if GCC had considered licensing buskers. Eva said she was not aware of this and did not know if GCC had the facility to do so.

Angus reported that the City Centre Transport Plan had been approved at the beginning of December, involving wider changes to the public realm and aimed at reducing through traffic in the city centre. There was potential for further reduction of traffic in Merchant City and the time might be right to engage again with the Community Council on this.

Work was continuing on the post-pandemic city centre recovery plan, taking into account changes in the retail sector and re-purposing of vacant properties, liaising with relevant agencies.

Christy (on video link) said she was discussing installation of traffic cameras or zebra crossings in Merchant City to make it safer for pedestrian to cross side roads. This was being costed.

There was more work to be done on easing problems with parking on pavements.The population was growing hence a forecast increase in the number of vehicles.

Three businesses in Candleriggs (Spitfire, FA’s? and Bar 91 had been told to remove exterior seating from pavements (She later reported none had complied and legal action against them was being considered).

MD asked Angus if he had been correctly quoted in the press that pubs may be allowed to stay open to 1 am rather than midnight. Angus said this was correct but he had been speaking in his role as Chair of the City Centre Task Force and believed this could be a way of revitalising the night time economy.

Hospitality businesses were struggling, he added. This would allow greater flexibility and not all premises would be able to take advantage. He was aware of the possible noise impact and it would be a matter for GCC’s Licensing Committee.

MD said such a move would not boost the economy and merely redistribute wealth by diverting cash to bigger pubs and night clubs.

Scott said even if such a move went ahead it should not include amplified music to be played until 1 am.

Niall said there was a real risk that residents living near licensed premises would suffer even more from early morning noise. They might move out and what good would that do to the local economy?

MD complained about raised kerbs at bus stops, including Glassford Street. There were no warning signs and alighting passengers risked injury.

Scott said there would be a litter pick in the MCTCC area on 15 April. Details would be posted on the Website and volunteers were welcome.

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 28 February, City Chambers

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by admin

Meeting Minutes, 29 November 2022

Attended by:

Tam Coyle (Chair), Niall McColl, Eileen Mills, Scott Thornton, MD, TD, IG, EL, TMcK, CMcK, GM, GW; Police: PCs Sean McFadden and Ian Macdougall; Ward Councillors Eva Bolander, Angus Millar and Philip Braat.

Attended by video: David Cowan, EM, JR

1. Welcome and apologies

Chair Tam Coyle welcomed attendees to the final meeting of the Community Council of 2022 and outlined the agenda.

Apologies: Gary Atkinson, Peter Hayman, Ros Wardley-Smith, Depute Provost Christy Mearns

2. Police Report

PC McFadden (SMcF) noted that sporadic parking problems in Candleriggs had been raised at the October meeting. There are few loading bays so vehicles had been parking on pavements or double parking. Police had been encouraging drivers to use on-street parking.

Scott said several cars were often parked on pavements in Ropeworks Lane.

Re Connollys Bar SMcF had spoken to colleagues in licensing enforcement about reported issues, especially on football match days.bThere had been 35 licensed premises inspections by police, mostly for noise complaints and anti-social behaviour, since the start of the year and no key management issues had been identified.

Tam said the situation had not improved in 18 months. Residents remained unhappy about noise and customers urinating on their doorsteps. Benches outside the premises had been removed to alleviate the problem of noisy congregations in the street.

Philip said 35 police visits so far this year seemed fairly high. PC McFadden replied it was not uncommon for one venue to be visited several times on a weekend night.

EL said that during TRNSMT festival goers had kicked in a panel on her close door and urinated in the stairwell. She had been told by the factor she had to pay around £200 as her share of the clean-up cost although police officers had assured her this was vandalism and she would not need to pay. She added that the cost should be met by concert organisers. SMcF said it was impossible to pursue the culprits since they had not been identified. Eva said she would follow this up. Tam said he’d spoken to DF Concerts who had promised stewarding around Mart Square/Jocelyn Square next year.

SMcF gave an update on the Polo Lounge/Revolver/Delmonica’s/Riding Room premises. These have shared exits and residents had complained about customers leaving noisily outwith licensed hours. A meeting had been held with representatives of the Scotsman Group (G1).

MD said this was not a police matter but a licensing one. He had received no response from the Licensing department and wondered why these premises were apparently being given special treatment. The Council’s noise control department was understaffed and its response was poor yet police were having to rely on its reports. He had been told the cost of identifying calls to the noise control line was too high. Tam and Angus said they were meeting Paul Stewart of Licensing soon and would raise this.

Re excessive noise from buskers SMcF reiterated the procedure that buskers making excessive noise were given a warning; subsequent transgression could result in confiscation of sound equipment. Complaints should be reported to 101 or via the Contact Us section of Police Scotland’s Website. Eva pointed out there is a Code of Conduct for buskers but the time may have come to move beyond that. Eileen said the problem had arisen every month at MCTCC meetings. In response to a question from Scott SMcF said a total of two community officers were responsible for the MCTCC area.

3. Presentation from Mosaic Architecture and Design re proposed development of student accommodation on corner of Hutcheson St/Trongate

Stephen Mallon from Mosaic said he had made a presentation to MCTCC on the same site three years in connection with an hotel, retail and a pub. He and his colleague Ian Gallagher of Iceni Projects explained the background, the developer’s credentials, context and details of the application. A further public consultation would take place in the New Year. There would be 173 bedrooms, an increase from the application for an hotel.

Tam said that in principle the Community Council opposed student accommodation. MCTCC had recently been given presentations on several similar projects. Students were transient, don’t pay Council Tax and contributed little to the city long term. There should be a greater emphasis on social housing. Mosaic said students spent in the city during their time there.

MD said several buildings of architectural significance had been on the site before. The presenters said they were merely changing the use of the site, not its footprint.

Scott asked if there had been an assessment of the medium to long term requirement for more student accommodation. He quoted an article in The Herald in which a Glasgow University professor stated that plans for city living were being driven by developers and not by Glasgow City Council.

Eva said there may be an overdue concentration of student accommodation in the city centre. Higher demand may be being driven by new tighter legislation on short term lets.

Scott noted another application for student flats was pending for Osborne Street. Tam said a further application for student flats was pending for the former Archaos night club building in Queen Street, opposite the MCTCC area. Community Council representation is being led by Broomielaw CC.

4. Minutes of meeting of previous meeting of 25 October

Adoption proposed by Tam, seconded by Eileen.

5. Treasurer’s Report

Treasurer not present.

6. Upcoming Planning Application Committee re proposed development at 65-97 Ingram Street car park

Eva (a member of the Committee) reported a public hearing as well as a site visit would take place on Tuesday 10 January.

Procedures for this were discussed, with several Community Councillors including Tam, Eileen and Scott expressing disappointment at the short time objectors (a total of 143 objections have been lodged) would be allowed to speak (Clarifications of the procedures were provided in subsequent exchanges with Ward Councillors and GCC).

7. Elected members’ reports

Angus reported on plans to regenerate the city centre and the ‘Golden Z’ area project (Sauchiehall/Buchanan/Argyle Streets). This involves re-purposing of properties, most of which GCC did not own, and filling vacant properties. New powers provided by the Scottish Government could help as could Compulsory Purchase Orders, funding and tax changes. Retail would not have the same footprint as previously. GCC wants to become more pro-active to vary the mix of retail, hospitality and residential.

The increased need for student accommodation had been driven by a decline in the private rental sector and perhaps an under-assessment by universities of student numbers following Covid. There may be areas outwith the city centre which were more suitable.

The City Transport Transport Plan was due to be approved shortly.

GCC was trying to improve the licensing system for outdoor seating of hospitality outlets with a single point of contact for businesses, code of conduct for good neighbourliness, and a system for residents to report issues. Candleriggs was a priority.

Eva said work was underway to create a more permanent refuse bin store in Virginia Place.

Philip said he continued to have concerns about arrangements for spaces in streets outside cafes. The 2 metre distancing rule needed better enforcement.

He congratulated MCTCC on achieving a public hearing and site visit re Ingram Street. Tam said there was a risk that noise complaints from residents of the new apartments would cause the closure of the adjacent City Halls and Fruitmarket entertainment venues.

Tam said the Christmas lights switch-on in George Square had impacted residents on Miller Street. Several local residents said they had not received notification about the switch-on nor received the tickets they used to be allocated. Philip said he had understood the central lights switch on would be replaced by smaller local events.

JR asked who should she speak to about cladding issues and the government grant scheme since she was concerned about the safety of her home and surroundings buildings in Bell Street. Angus asked her to email Ward Councillors. The local MSP might also need to be involved.

Tam reported on licensing that there had been an application from Merchant Square for Hogmanay from 6 pm to 1 am. There were no objections.

He said the first meeting of Friends of Ramshorn had been held and good progress had been made on the constitution.

Next meeting: Tuesday 31 January 2023 - City Chambers

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by admin

Meeting Minutes, 25 October 2022

Attended by

Tam Coyle (Chair), David Cowan, Peter Hayman, Robin Jones, Niall McColl (Secretary), Eileen Mills, Ros Wardley-Smith, MD, CMcK, TMcK, JH, AL, GF, PC Sean McFadden, PC Rob Wilson 

Ward Councillors: Philip Braat, Baillie Christy Mearns, Angus Millar

Attended by video: Gary Atkinson

Apologies: Councillor Eva Bolander

Police report

PC Wilson reiterated that local police were not collating crime statistics since they did not believe this was a good use of police resources.

Tam disagreed, saying that if no measurements were taken and comparisons made it was impossible to judge if progress was being made and where the main problems lay.

JH complained about parking on pavements in Candleriggs.  Why were police not enforcing the law with £50 fines? This had been going on with impunity for far too long. He had seen police walking past offenders without taking action.  PC Wilson replied that a number of fixed penalty notices had been issued. If there is a transgression police need to know on the day. He may have to raise this with GCC as there is a traffic management issue. 

Robin Jones said the Spaces for People initiative which involved tables and chairs on the pavement left too little room for pedestrians, especially wheelchair users.

PC Wilson said cafes and restaurants were given licences for specific sizes of outdoor spaces. Police would check these limits were being observed.

JH said there should be no goods loading/unloading on Candleriggs. Action on illegal parking should be taken now.

A resident said two premises in Virginia Street had two adjoining bars with different licensing hours. Customers were leaving one premise in the early hours of the morning in contravention of its licence. He had received no response to his emailed complaints to the licensing board. Tam will take this up as a matter of urgency.

Scott noted that an owner at Carrick Quay reported recently finding drug users squatting on the premises and had been moved on by police. PC Wilson said this was likely to become a bigger problem with the colder weather but the East Campbell Street homeless shelter would be open again in November through to March. 

CMcK said the noise from buskers was continuing to be especially loud at the entrance to Debenhams, often from the same group of people. Tam said there should be an enforceable decibel level. PC Wilson reiterated that if repeated police warnings about excessive noise were not heeded, sound equipment could be confiscated. 

GF complained about noise and brawls long into the night outside WHERE?. Repeated calls to GCC’s Noise Control, an under-resourced unit, had been fruitless which meant police (who relied on the unit’s reports) could not intervene. Christy said there was a similar situation at Connolly’s but progress had been blocked because of the need for acoustic monitoring in complainants’ homes. Tam said the matter was getting worse and he will take up the issues with GCC licensing and the police. 

Gary said seating outside Connolly’s, which caused outside noise from customers, had not yet been removed.

Approval of September meeting minutes:

Eileen queried item 6.3.3. Niall read out what had been said. “Is it correct that Cemetery friends can take an interest in restoring or any action at all regarding gravestones? Is that not the responsibility of the owner of the gravestones or the descendants of the owners of the gravestones and grants and such like?”

He quoted Eva as saying Friends groups could do so under terms laid down by Historic Environment Scotland.

Approval of minutes proposed by David Cowan and seconded by Ros Wardley-Smith. Carried. 

Ward Councillors’ reports:

Angus:

City centre transport (transformation) plan is being presented to GCC committee next month. 

George Square updated concept designs out in next month or so.

He met yesterday with representatives of the Friends of the Ramshorn. Tam said a constitution could be based on that of the Friends of the Garnethill Cemetery. First meeting 22 November.

Angus will make sure MCTCC gets adequate notice of future walkabouts.

Re Archaos nightclub in Queen Street (across road from MCTCC area): Tam, Peter and Scott met developers who have lodged a pre-planning application  for student accommodation. Tam said there was no mention of demolition of the building at that meeting. Community Council response is being led by Broomielaw CC

Christy:

Has asked police to review Candleriggs premises which might be in breach of their licences for occupation of outside spaces. 

Despite 143 objections the application to build 109 flats on the Ingram Street site would be recommended for approval at next week’s Planning Applications Committee. Another material consideration could be possible archaeological relics under the site. 

She is looking at possibilities for more Zebra crossings for some side streets in Merchant City under the proposed new 20 mph zone.

Remove all traffic  from some streets under the City Centre Transport (Transformation) Plan?

Philip:

Have we reached saturation point for student accommodation in certain locales?

The backlog of bin collection following the refuse workers’ strike is being cleared. 

Peter said GCC had told him there are enough bins near his flat but this was not true: there were too many bins with contents destined for landfill and too few heading for recycling.

Scottish Water work will cause disruption in High Street from 6 January and is likely to impact traffic through Merchant City (This will be publicised on the MCTCC Website). 

There have been complaints of noise from the funfair in St Enoch Square.

Questions to ward councillors

MD raised issues concerning planning enforcement of the A listed Jacobean Corsetry building in Virginia Street.

JH said the Sorriso cafe in Candleriggs was refused a licence in April 2022 yet continued to operate.

He also said 83b Candleriggs Court is operating as an aparthotel but of 36 flats 15 are operating as serviced apartments. Why is GCC not taking action? 

JH added that six cast iron Victorian bollards had been removed from outside the City Halls some 10 years ago at great expense. Why could they not be returned? 

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Meeting Minutes – 27 September 2022

1.       Welcome

Gary Atkinson welcomed everyone to the meeting.

2.       Attendance and Apologies

2.1.  Community Councillors

Gary Atkinson; Ros Wardley Smith; Niall McColl; Scott Thornton; Peter Hayman; Eileen Mills

2.2.  Residents

AL, SC, HL, TM

2.3.  Elected Members

Cllr Eva Bolander; Depute Lord Provost Christy Mearns

2.4.  Ex-officio

PC Rob Wilson, Police Scotland

2.5.  Apologies

Tam Coyle; Carla Arrighi; David Cowan

3.       Police Report

No specific report; Rob made the following points

3.1.  Contacting the Police

• Public will never be criticised for contacting the police about something that concerns/alarms them
• Call centre risk assesses every call, which dictates the response

3.2.    Citywide campaign for low level drug use

• This has been successful

3.3.  Questions

3.3.1.   What’s the current status on break-ins, etc? (PH)

• No figures available
• Main issues locally are on-street drug dealing, antisocial behaviour

3.3.2.   High levels of noise on Ingram St on Monday night (PH)

• A few instances of antisocial behaviour but nothing major

3.3.3.   What are the main drugs trafficked? (ST)

• Cocaine; Heroin; Cannabis
• Legal highs are not street drugs, but are not an issue in Glasgow

3.3.4.   What are the Police Powers on Noisy street musicians (ST)

• No prescribed decibel level
• If Police get a complaint, they will attend
• If, in their judgement noise exceeds what a reasonable person would expect, they’d ask them to turn it down
• They can be issued with a warning and, if they persist, their equipment can be seized.
• Eva added the following:
  • Was a focus before covid
  • There is a plan for addressing this

  • There is a buskers code of conduct, which the community team should be enforcing    

3.3.5.   What can be done about Antisocial behaviour from pubs and pubgoers (SC)

• Phone it in to the Police on 101
• They will review
• If it falls outside the pub’s licence conditions, will pass it on to partner agencies
• Provides the evidence that GCC etc need to be able to take action against their licence
• Local noise team are short staffed
• Connolly’s and Murphy's are still a particular issue

3.3.6.   Any issues in the Ramshorn (GA)

• No reports of antisocial behaviour, drinking
• It is included in the patrol matrix

4.       Minutes of August Meeting and Matters Arising

4.1.  Approval

No changes were requested

Proposed by Scott Thornton; 

Seconded by Niall McColl

Minutes adopted

4.2.  Matters Arising

4.2.1.   Filming

• Policy is for Scott to ask donations from any company wishing to film in the area
• Total of £8,600 so far, which is an impressive total, and many thanks are extended to Scott for his work on this
• Discussion re use of money postponed to next mid-monthly

4.2.2.   Saltmarket Bridge Repairs

4.2.3.   Businesses occupying excessive space on streets

• Covered under Eva’s report

4.2.4.   Visit to Recycling Centre

• 3 community councillors attended
• Very worthwhile visit
• Lots of background on what GCC is doing to combat the mess problem
• Many thanks to Scott for organising the trip

5.         Treasurer’s Report

• No official report as Carla sent apologies
• Minor expenses of £130 for web related stuff

6.       Elected Members Reports

6.1.  Councillor Eva Bolander

6.1.1.   Walkabout with Angus

No community council representatives were able to attend, though Eva wasn’t aware if we’d been advised (update – no emails were sent to the MCTCC account advising us this was taking place)

6.1.2.   Virginia Place refuse problems

• meeting with planning and cleansing to try and resolve. 
• Plan to have bin sheds at side of building requires the dead end to be “stopped up”

6.1.3.   Graces Bar

• Graces bar complaints have been reported to Licensing and to Planning. 
• In the future, all licenced premises will have to apply for space on pavements, and will have to show a plan. 
• Eva will arrange a briefing on what the new rules are

6.1.4.   Candleriggs Development

• Central square to be called Candleriggs Square

6.1.5.   Avenues Project

• Some parts need to be re-scoped, and some elements of the projects may be scaled back due to current inflationary pressures. 
• High St is now included in the overall project. 
• Learnings from Sauchiehall project are being taken into account. 
• Timelines have slipped due to COVID, plus external pressure. 
• Report available from the GCC website (https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/councillorsandcommittees/submissiondocuments.asp?submissionid=105987)

6.1.6.   Green Grants

• Green grants for businesses will go live fairly soon. These are grants to help achieve city’s net zero ambitions

6.1.7.   Ramshorn

• EM asked if Eva knew anything about the Marie Trust, which she did, and was able to give more details about it.
• Initial meeting of group was cancelled for various reasons. Eva proposed that a donation to Ramshorn would be beneficial to the community, and also suggested other uses for the money we have received, such as The Marie Trust, Simon Community, Glasgow Helps – a new organisation setup to help people facing cost of living crisis.

6.2.  Depute Lord Provost Christy Mearns

6.2.1.   Festival Village

• They now have temporary planning permission for 2 years, so can apply for a full premises licence. Deadline to object to that is 13 October

6.2.2.   Electric shuttlebus

• Part of proposal to reduce volume of traffic, and would be a complementary service

6.2.3.   Spaces for People

• New approach to spaces for people will remove the temporary footways
• Requirement for 2 meter clearance on the existing pavements
• COVID permissions lapse at the end of the month
• Businesses using more of the pavement will now have to submit applications to use more space.
• Applications will be for 2 years

6.2.4.   Connolly’s

• Still ongoing
• Due to the review hearing that’s been proposed, there was an agreement to allow Connolly’s time to make improvements to their operation
• Part of the agreement was for acoustic monitoring equipment to be used to measure noise, but she believes that this is no longer the case

6.2.5.   City Centre Transformation Plan

• General direction is good
• Did suggest that alongside removing through traffic, should provide more pedestrianisation, as current plans would still allow traffic on many streets

6.2.6.   Infrastructure Fund

• Hoping for improvements in the merchant city
• CC could put forward ideas

6.2.7.   SPT Strategy

• Closes on 31 October

6.2.8.   Food Growing Fund

• Applications open for next 6 weeks
• Communities and local groups to increase food growing opportunities
• https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=29671

6.2.9.   Recycling

• Agrees that its a very confusing landscape
• A lot of the blame lies with manufacturers using inappropriate plastics
• We have to reduce the waste we’re producing

6.3.    Questions for Councillors

6.3.1.   What can the council do about the banks with boarded up windows (NM)

• Barclays and HSBC (outside our boundary) on Argyle St
• Eva will follow up

6.3.2.   Refuse collection issues (TM)

• The Polmadie plant can separate some waste into recyclable material
• Knowing what can and cannot be recycled is almost impossible (ST). More information on what can and cannot be recycled available from: https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=17043

6.3.3.   Can “Cemetery Friends” groups take an interest in or any other action about restoring gravestones, referring to Deeds of Grant, Susan O’Connor etc 

• Yes, in line with Historic Environment Scotland guidelines
• Susan O’Connor (Civic Trust) can clarify what they can and cannot do 

6.3.4.   Is the Saltmarket/High St shop front improvement programme still going (TM)

• Some of the units are looking in poor condition
• Meanwhile Use programme phase 1 is complete, phase 2 is under way
• Eva will confirm what’s available now

6.3.5.   Seats installed outside Connolly’s have worsened problems for residents, as pub-goers sit on them until the wee hours (SC)

• Installed as part of Spaces for People
• Eva will speak to the officers about getting them moved

6.3.6.   Where would the electric bus run? (ST)

• Christy - No detail as yet

7.       Planning

7.1.  This month’s planning applications

The detailed application can be reviewed by clicking on the application details

Reference	Details
22/02026/FUL	Installation of additional telecommunications equipment and associated ancillary works. - Glasshouse Car Park 44 Glassford Street Glasgow
22/01764/ADV	Display of internally illuminated box sign and 2no. double sided projecting signs, includes various non-illuminated vinyl manifestations to glazed doors - Unit 9 201 Argyle Street Glasgow G2 8BU
22/02083/LBA	Internal and external works including roof extension to listed building. - 101 Trongate Glasgow
22/02332/LBA	Internal and external alterations - 101 Trongate Glasgow
22/02096/LBA	Display of illuminated signage. - 62 Virginia Street Glasgow G1 1TX
22/02284/ADV	Display of illuminated signage. - 62 Virginia Street Glasgow G1 1TX
22/02372/FUL	Use of shop (Class 1) as bureau de change (Class 2) - Unit 100 St Enoch Shopping Centre 55 St Enoch Square Glasgow G1 4BW

7.2.  Other notes

• Corrigans on Howard St is now empty as they have moved to Keppochill Road.
• Proposal of Application Notice for Archaos on Queen St
  • Community Councillors will meet with developers in October

  • Public events in November/December

8.         Licencing

8.1.  Recent Applications

• Festival Village. Closing date 13 October. More info https://mctcc.scot/2022/09/29/licensing-application-festival-village/

9.       Social Media

• Now just under 700 followers on Facebook

10. Any Other Business

10.1.  Marie Trust

• EM recently became aware of the Marie Trust and met with Frances McKinley, the Chief Officer.
• Work as a day centre for homeless people, based on Albion St, having recently moved from Midland St
• Frances is is keen to speak to us. Would November be possible? To be discussed at October mid-monthly
• Also keen to be involved with Greyfriars Garden – offering to recycle they food waste into compost. EM has provided contact details for this.

10.2.  Merchant City Community Notice Boards

• Should we be thinking of updating them to reflect that we’re now MC&T CC

10.3.  Great Scottish Run, 1 and 2 October

• Many roads closed around the Merchant City, but no notifications received by residents
• Eva will follow up

11.   Date of Next Meeting

• Tuesday 25 October 2022 at 7pm in the City Chambers and online
• Our AGM will be held at the start of the meeting. All office bearers step down and may be re-elected, or any other Community Councillor can stand for an office bearer position,

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by admin

Meeting Minutes, 30 August 2022

Tuesday 30^th August 2022 at 7pm in Committee Room 1, Glasgow City Chambers and online via Zoom

1. Welcome

Tam Coyle welcomed everyone to the meeting

2. Attendance and Apologies

2.1 Community Councillors:- Chair: Tam Coyle; Niall McColl, David Cowan; Peter Hayman; Scott Thornton; Eileen Mills; Gary and Rosalind Atkinson

2.2 Residents:- EM, TD, CM, GM, MR, AL, PM

2.3 Elected Members:- Cllr Eva Bolander, Cllr Angus Millar, Cllr Philip Braat and Bailie Christ Mearns

2.4 Ex-officio:- Graeme Naine (North Plan), Ross Barrett (HLM Architects), and Olga Kozlova (Director of Innovation, Strathclyde University)

2.5 Apologies:-  Kaukab Stewart MSP 

3. Minutes of Last Meeting (26 July 2022)

3.1 Corrections to minutes - No changes were requested

3.2 Approval:   Proposed by: Niall McColl, Seconded by: Tam Coyle

3.3 Matters Arising

There were no matters arising.

4. Treasurer’s Report

There was no Treasurer Report as Carla Arrighi was on holiday.  Scott Thornton, in collaboration with Niall McColl, reported that we are awaiting confirmation if Warner Bros. film company has paid the MCTCC invoice sent to them.  They reported we are also expecting £100 from another film company.

5. Police Report

There was no police report as they were unable to attend.

6. Presentation – Planning Application for TIC2 at Strathclyde University

Graeme Naine, Ross Barrett and Olga Kozlova thanked MCTCC for being invited to meeting.  HLM Architects have submitted to GCC the Proposal of Application Notice for ‘Tic 2’ (Technology Innovation Centre 2) building.  The have started the formal pre-application consultation which runs to late September. They expect to submit a full planning application by late November. More information about the building is available online at:

https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/technologyinnovationzone/charleshuangadvancedtechnologyandinnovationcentre/

Olga Kozlova explained that it would be called “Charles Huang Advanced Technology Centre” It is the biggest project Strathclyde University has been working towards for the last 3 years. The purpose is to expand upon the work that is being done in ‘Tic 1’, which is now full, located next to this site, wherein scientists are carrying out innovation and research with private companies to produce prototype goods.

The entrance to Tic 2 will face the High St Rail Station, and so will be a fitting start to the new Glasgow City Innovation District (GCID). The ground floor will be open to the public and community (to some extent) and include an innovation hub. This will promote social innovation, allow for the public to test new products from the research which carried out there.  It will bring high quality jobs to the city centre. 

Graeme Naine - Strathclyde has appointed a full project team. The design proposals are subject to review after the consultation has finished. Ross Barrett took us through the slides and added supplementary information.  It is well placed for sustainability and active travel due to close location to transport hubs.  They have looked at the history of the High Street and capture the concept of courts and closes. The presentation and consultation information would be distributed MCTCC members.

Daniel – Is it the case that the West side is not yet a confirmed projects at the Herald building? Graeme Naine explained that he understands currently there are no plans for the West side plot. However, he could not say that this would not change in the future, but was sure if this were the case, it would not be until after Tic 2 was built. Strathclyde university would brief MCTCC well in advance of any such plans at this location.

Scott Thornton enquired how the community would have access / use of the ground floor? Olga Kozlova explained that it would not be full access, the work upstairs must remain private.  Just as in Tic 1 the ground floor will be open to the public where there will be a café, have some public events or information galleries which would be open to the public.

7. Elected Members Report

Councillor Angus Millar

City Centre Consultation, the deadline for this is the 12^th of September, it would be good if MCTCC submitted a response. It relates, in some ways to mobility access to the city centre:-   https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/city-centre-transformation-plan

Broad discussions around the People 1^st Zones:- reducing traffic from the city centre and improving access for disabled people. He noted how MCTCC had contributed to pedestrian strategy plans in the past, even though that is no specific duty to this, it would be useful if they did and would give a mandate for the work being considered.

Likewise for the George Square consultation is ongoing, there have been many phases as GCC has learned from previous changes that a broad consensus is required for changes to be accepted. The concept designs have been widely publicised with questions asked if people would like more grassy areas, benches and if there are too many trees included. It is known that people like to spend time there, hold civic and private events there. To take part in the survey please visit:- 

https://www.ourplaceglasgow.com/get-involved/george-square

There has been industrial action due to a national pay dispute by the cleansing department for the last week. It has still some days to run. When the strike ends, domestic refuge collection will restart. Negotiations are ongoing to resolve this pay dispute.

Tam has arranged to do a walkabout with Eva and himself on Tuesday 7^th of September.

Bailie Christy-Mearns

Bailie Christy-Mearns has also recently done a walking survey of the Merchant City. It was good to see the ‘Spaces for People’ planters and benches have been installed. These are an improvement on the improvised wooden planters used beforehand.  These now have an aesthetic, clean design befitting of the Merchant City. It is good GCC has approved these to become permanent fixtures. 

Although the installation of these has used up some parking spaces, it has been done in a safe way she has been assured. It improves the look of the streetscape and allows greater access for everyone. Depending on how the new designs work out, it could be that planters can be relocated elsewhere thus allowing for more seating to be added.

In response to suggestions from a member of MCTCC she has asked that the Planning Portal show, in a better way, the documents for planning applications. Specifically this relates to the dates of the documents for the Ingram St carpark development. Those submissions which were uploaded before the end date will be considered valid and will be taken into account for the overall application.

The funding for a citywide speed limit of 20mph for Glasgow has been approved.  She is pleased to have been involved in this public safety initiative and understands the signage is now going up across the city.  She thanks MCTCC for supporting this policy for many years.

She is an advocate for the City Centre Transformation plan. It will improve the  ‘pedestrian experience’  of their use of the streets with more ‘greenery’.  Likewise, the George Square proposal will be positive step forward, in collaboration with all the other initiatives.  More seated grass areas in the centre, and around the perimeter, as this would promote better recreational areas for children to play.  However the plan does not consider the look of the surrounding streets and these need improvement, especially considering it is meant to be a conservation area. There is too much signage and advertising.

Councillor Eva Bolander

She visited the Saltmarket Rail Bridge consultation that was located in Osbourne Street in August. She was not happy about the time that will be taken to do the work and noise it will create.  It will be done during the night, and she has already had a number of complaints even before the work has started. Network Rail the say the works have to be done as soon as possible and that the residents have been notified there will be noise during the night.  It is believed the Saltmarket bridge is only used for network rail activities and not for passenger trains. Trains crossing the bridge are going to, or from, Shields Road depot for cleaning or repair.

The Infrastructure Fund was put before the North West Area Partnership in June. 

She consulted with her colleagues and the Partnership. Some of the funds will go towards resurfacing of road on Cochrane St.  Following complaints, it was agreed that the following pedestrian crossing workings have to investigated: Montrose St and Cochrane St and John St and Cochrane St.

The Friends of Ramshorn Graveyard and a date for the inaugural meeting has been set for 6^th of September.  She has had a summary report from the Merchant City Festival and was pleased to see that it was very well attended including by families.

Queen St was closed today due to emergency road works at Ingram St and George Street though it was not known why. 

Baillie Philip Braat

Good news about the Merchant City Festival.  He has reported that some of the older benches around the Counting House Wetherspoons adjacent to George Square require re-painting.  

It has not gone unnoticed that some businesses have deemed it suitable to utilise the whole pavement for their commercial use. Residents and the public, are only able to pass by walking on the road; there has to be a balance here. Any cases like this should be reported to the Ward Councillors.

As was seen in Edinburgh previously, it is not just domestic bins that are now overflowing due to the industrial action. It will take some time after for the bin men to clear up all mess that has been accumulating. He has noticed that even before the strike there was mess building-up in some areas and he encourages these to reported after the strike ends.

He thanked Mr Scott Thornton for assisting him in setting-up the visit to the Viridor refuse recycling centre on Thursday 15^th September between 1pm and 3pm. Cllr Braat was unsure if he was able to attend this meeting as he has a busy schedule around that time.

He received an email from a David Boyd of Network Rail in response to resident complaints, however Mr Boyd feels that the best solution is to continue with the night work so as to ‘just get the work done.’

Cllr Millar has invited him to a meeting at Strathclyde University to look at the Tic 2 plans.  Cycle September are trying to get people to take their bikes out in that month and any month afterwards.

Questions for Elected Members

Tam has found an empty Nitrous Oxide (NO) gas cannister in the Ramshorn graveyard.

There was also something at a car park.

Scott Thornton asked if the recycling centre is open, Cllr Bolander confirmed that it was closed during the strike.  He asked about how members of the public were notified of planning hearings.  It was discussed that the methods and timescales used by the Planning Department were unknown, Cllr Bolander recommended asking the department employee involved in the application.

Mark Ripley, who lives on Saltmarket, noted that there is little traffic flow on the road and so the works to the Saltmarket Rail Bridge by Network Rail could be done during the day. It would appear as though they are just doing the works at time that suits their business rather than local residents, despite the complaints.

8. Planning 

Planning Applications for August	Address	Details
22/01706/FUL 71	71 Argyle Street Glasgow G2 8BJ	External alterations, with installation of shopfront at Dunlop Street, extension toloading platform at Osbourne Street and works associated with subdivision ofretail unit to form two separate units (Class 1)
22/01872/PAN	185-211 High Street/30 College Street	Erection of technology and innovation centre (Class 10 Non residentialinstitutions), ( Class 4 Business) ancillary uses and associated works.
22/01773/ADV	82 Queen Street Glasgow G1 3DN	Display of one non-illuminated projecting sign and non-illuminated vinyl appliedto fascia.
22/01895/FUL	15 St Margaret’s Place Glasgow G1 5JY	Use of puzzle room (Class 11) as retail unit (Class 1)
22/01912/FUL	76 Argyle Street Glasgow G2 8A	Frontage alterations and installation of click and collect kiosk.
22/01862/FUL	9 - 11 Argyle Street Glasgow	Use of retail premises (Class 1) as flatted development ( 4 units) (Sui generis) andexternal alterations
22/01796/FUL	4 - 8 Dixon Street Glasgow	Erection of serviced apartments with ground floor retail and roof top restaurant :Section 42 Application to vary condition 41 of Planning Permission 19/01694/FUL
22/01899/FUL	101 Trongate Glasgow	Use of vacant premises as 4No. flatted dwelling with installation of replacementwindows, formation of dormer windows, frontage alterations and fabric repairs
22/02032/ADV	76 Argyle Street Glasgow G2 8AG	Display of illuminated signage.
22/02080/FUL	110 Queen Street Glasgow G1 3BX	Installation of telecommunications equipment and associated works
22/02084/FUL	34 Queen Street Glasgow G1 3DX	Use of betting office (sui generis) as amusement arcade (sui generis) withfrontage alterations and associated works: Application under Section 42 for noncompliancewith condition 3 of planning application 20/02513/FUL relating tohours of operation
22/02138/ADV	Site Of Bus Shelter Outside 12 On Glassford Street Glasgow	Display of internally illuminated digital double sided advertising

All planning applications can be viewed by visiting https://publicaccess.glasgow.gov.uk

9. Licensing  

There were no licensing applications this month. 

Tam is looking at why there was no Licencing notification of the Beach event at King St carpark to ensure this does not happen again.

10. Any Other Competent Business

• Tam noted that this is the second month with no Police representation.
• There was a break-in at the Herald Building
• Glasgow Live website reported a raid on Parnie Street on Thursday 18^th of August.
• It has been noted that the vast majority of GCC office workers appear to be still working from home, even though the Covid pandemic has all but past.
• It was noted that there has be no response, despite filling a Doodle poll for availability for the ‘Rain Garden’ initiative MCTCC were contacted about in August.

Date of Next Meeting 

Tuesday 27th September at 7pm

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by admin

Meeting Minutes, 28 June 2022

28 June 2022 at 7pm in Glasgow City Chambers and online via Zoom

1. Welcome

Tam Coyle welcomed everyone to the meeting

2. Attendance and Apologies

2.1 Community Councillors

Carla Arrighi(for part of meeting); Gary Atkinson; Tam Coyle; David Cowan; Peter Hayman; Robin Jones; Niall McColl; Eileen Mills; Daniel O’Malley; Scott Thornton;

2.2 Residents

AW, EM, AL, TD, CM, TM, RA

2.3 Elected Members

Cllr Eva Bolander; Cllr Phillip Braat; Depute Lord Provost Christy Mearns; Cllr Angus Millar

2.4 Ex-officio

Rob Wilson and Martin ? (Police Scotland); David Leslie (PAS)

2.5 Apologies

None received

3. Minutes of Last Meeting (31 May 2022)

3.1 Corrections to minutes 

No changes were requested

3.2 Approval

Proposed by: Scott Thornton

Seconded by: Daniel O’Malley

3.3 Matters Arising

None

4. Treasurer’s Report

• No report as Carla had connection problems

5. Police Report

5.1 Report

• Rob will get back to Tam re parking issue discussed at previous meeting
• Drop in anti-social behaviour recently; St Enoch seems to have calmed down a bit. Could be due to travel disruption and/or better weather.
• Organised crime issue on Argyle St, with children as young as five being left to play musical instruments, with the adults taking any money collected. Should be reported via 101.
• Crime levels around Argyle St/Miller St junction - Eva has raised this with the police, but Rob isn’t aware of anything - Rob will follow up.

5.2 Questions

• No specific questions raised.

6. Planning Aid Scotland - David Leslie

6.1 Presentation

• The presentation is available at  https://mctcc.scot/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Merchant-City-Trongate-CC-Planning-Talk-28-June-2022.pdf

6.2 Questions

• Scott Thornton - believes only a small number of representatives are allowed to address the planning committee? Up to each council, but have to be transparent. Would normally recommend a group get together and appoint a spokesperson. 
  •  Eva - if normal planning meeting, no representations from objectors or the developer. Councillors can speak. Only if there’s a planning hearing do objectors get a chance to speak. Developers get the same length of time to speak. 
• Peter Hayman - is the planning meeting private? No, open to the public.
• Scott - what’s the difference between a planning meeting and a planning hearing? Up to planning committee to decide if they want to have a site visit and a hearing, or just a hearing, if it helps them reach a decision. 
• Christy - is it appropriate for external pressure to be applied, if the community feels that the report doesn’t represent the views of the community. Not really answered
• Eileen Mills - what was his opinion of a developer trying to discredit a group by quoting out of context, what can we do about that? There is nothing wrong with a CC group having a discussion with a developer, but be careful not to compromise the CC
• Eileen - what can we do if a developer, in their Planning Statement, uploads an incorrect reference number for a previous proposal so that its not possible to confirm the reference? Recommend that Eileen speak to the Case Officer. 

7. Elected Members Reports

7.1 Cllr Eva Bolander

• Antisocial behaviour - bandstand on the waterfront is becoming more of an issue again
• Car “Enthusiasts” - Police have been using sonar radars to catch them, mostly around Pitt Street. Fines are being issued. However, only 2 units in the whole of Scotland
• Ramshorn Graveyard -will reopen at 8am on Friday 2nd July. Summer hours are 8am - 8pm, will be reviewed for Winter.
• Connolly’s hearing - residents were not represented. It is still being monitored by the police. Tam will meet with the bar owner on their return from holiday. In the correspondence, there seems to be some discrepancy between the bar owner and the building owner. Media commentary has largely been in support of noise levels, and quite a bit of sectarian comments. 
• King St “Beach Park” - only became aware of it on 28 June. Will be open from 15th July to mid August. No planning or licensing applications have been submitted that Eva is aware of. It is taking place on private land (NCP) - MCTCC have not had any notification of this either. 

7.2 Cllr Phillip Braat

•  Not heard anything about the beach party
•  Wasn’t invited to the Connolly’s hearing
•  Encouraged by improvements in anti-social behaviour, but need to keep eye on the ball over summer.
•  Dealing with outside seating on Brunswick St which was causing pedestrian access problems, now resolved. 
•  Grafitti removal in certain hotspots. 
•  Still waiting on response to emails about Police dealing with loud vehicles on Ingram St and other areas in the Merchant City.
•  Visit to recycling facility can now be arranged, subject to suitable dates and attendees.

7.3 Depute Lord Provost Christy Mearns

• Also not invited to the Connolly’s hearing
• Parking - looking at business case to employ more parking officers
• Shuttle St parking - One small stretch not completed, due to a dispute between the restaurant and Scottish Enterprise over ownership of the site
• Festival Village - 2 year licensing application granted, which does include amplified music. Specifies how loud that can be

7.4 Cllr Angus Miller

• Spaces for People - planters have been replaced in the Merchant City. Will be finished by 4th July
• Low Traffic Proposal (MCPHAEN) - best way to progress is through the City Centre Transformation Plan, which will be out for consultation at the end of July. 12 week consultation period
• Area partnership funds - green and open spaces fund. £1million fund for ward 10. 1st meeting on 30/6 (Gary attending for MCTCC). Officers have jumped the gun on proposals, as no consultation carried out, and Angus expects the reports to be sent back for rework.

7.5 Questions

No time for questions due to time constraints

8. Planning (including Merchant City Park)

No update due to time constraints

9. Licensing

No update due to time constraints

10. Any Other Business

11.1 Filming (Scott)

• Debutante - turning Cochrane St into 1870s New York Fifth Avenue. Got an email from the film company to say they’re making a donation to the community council for environmental improvements.
• Second film includes action car sequences on Bell St, Tontine Lane and Walls St. THey’re also planning shooting on Bridgegate and Osborne St. Scott to clarify timings of the filming. Revised shooting schedule sent after the meeting that didn’t relate to what was discussed.
• Gary raised issue of the disturbance on Montrose St, every time there’s filming. 

11.2 Friends of Ramshorn (Eva/Tam)

Meeting planned for mid-July. Eva to advise on date, time and location once agreed.

11.3 Lack of licensing notifications (Tam)

• MCTCC haven’t had any for last four months. 
• Eva and Angus don’t seem to be getting them either.

11.4 Clarity on planning application committee (Eileen)

• Vice Convenor - Christy - Eileen acknowledged that Christy wouldn’t be taking part in the decision as she’d submitted an objection.
• Eileen asked Eva about her position as an MCTCC Ward Councillor and Member of the PA Committee etc in her taking part in the decision making process. Eva confirmed that she intended to take part in the process.
• Peter - What is the quorum for the planning committee - Peter thinks its 4, but Eva was unsure (EB to check). 
• Peter - Do all planning committee members get invited to all meetings? Yes

11.5 Public littering by public houses (TD)

• TD - Brewdog leaving pallets on Garth St. Follow up direct with Environmental Health, with photographs.

11.6 Wording of auto-replies (Scott)

• Philip has made inquiries about changing the automatic message. 
• Eva - Absence rates are not back to normal levels, but agree the message needs to be updated

Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday 26th July at 7pm

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by admin