Meeting Minutes, 27 June 2023

27 June 2023, from 6.30 in City Chambers

Attended by: Tam Coyle (Chair), Carla Arrighi, Gary Atkinson, David Cowan, Mark Dougan, Peter Hayman, Niall McColl, Colin McKay, Eileen Mills, Scott Thornton, Ros Wardley-Smith; Ward Councillors Eva Bolander, Philip Braat and Angus Millar; Police - PCs Sean McFadden and colleagues Stephen DF, DH, TMcK, GM, JR; by video - EM and BZ

1. Welcome and apologies

Apologies received from PC Rob Wilson.

Tam welcomed everyone to the meeting.

2. Minutes of Previous meeting on 30 May 2023

Approved.

3. Police Report

PC McFadden reported engagements had been undertaken with more than a score of buskers, some of them more than once, and they had been made aware of the Code of Practice.  A further 8 engagements would be undertaken in July and August to help ensure their compliance, with times carefully selected in advance to achieve maximum reach.

Tam reported that he and Scott had met Lise Fisher, John Campbell and Campbell Bern from the street drugs unit along with Judith Bowers from The Panopticon and the needles bin was being moved further down New Wynd at the junction with Parnie Street. This is to limit disruption and risk to Panopticon staff and visitors. The six month pilot scheme is due to end in November.

Scott noted that plans to install gates at either side of the L-shaped lane around the Panopticon could be delayed because the approval of local premises’ owners were needed. Judith had reported several recent overdoses in the vicinity. Although the number of needles left on streets had diminished he doubted whether the overall situation would have improved by the end of the needle bin trial. 

Eileen said MCTCC had not yet received details from Lise Fisher about other areas in which the needle bin trial had been held. Tam will remind Lise.

PC McFadden said there would be a substantial and proportionate police presence at the TRANSMT pop festival (7-9 July), inside and outside Glasgow Green and in the city centre.

Gary said there was a need for crime and offender (such as parking fines) statistics in the MCTCC area. The Community Council had been asking for these for some time. 

Councillor Braat said he had accompanied officers and noticed illegal activities taking place along the Clyde and behind the Cathedral. The busking situation seemed to have improved. 

Mark asked for the criteria for dialling 999 or 101. PC McFadden said 999 should be used if a crime was ongoing, 101 if the matter could be picked up later.

Mark said he had been amazed not to have seen any police on foot when he had an extensive walkabout in a very busy city centre last Saturday. Could we get an idea of police capabilities in that respect? PC McFadden said there was a comprehensive city centre resourcing plan. 

Mark said there was evidence of pairs of cyclists delivering drugs to young people in plain sight in daytime and with impunity from Glassford Street to Wilson and Virginia Streets where there were no CCTC cameras and dealers could spend 5 minutes or more with ‘clients’.  DF said drug pushers could be using hire bikes.

DF said he had seen graffiti indicating that drug ‘cultures’ were communicating to warn others off their ‘patch.’ PC McFadden said if there was any sectarian, racist or homophobic reference in graffiti it should be reported. 

4. Elected Members’ reports

Angus told the meeting Councillors had discussed strengthening GCC’s attitude to buskers using amplification. Edinburgh was planning a survey of residents and Glasgow might do the same with a possibility of introducing a bye-law.

He was going to ask police for statistics on parking fines in and around Miller Street and elsewhere.

There was a resourcing issue with parking attendants’ shift patterns, including those affecting Candleriggs, but additional staff were being recruited. 

Angus said councillors had met potential developers at Maxwell Street to try to save the building facade but no proposal has yet been lodged.

Briefings of arrangements for the world cycling championships next month would include one at the Chamber of Commerce on 13 July between 5-7 pm. Eileen said residents were having to park their cars well away from their homes because of road closures. 

JR asked Angus about the policy for parking on pavements. He had never seen a parking warden for the past 14 days. Angus replied that currently (although the law would change from January 2024) a parked car on a pavement obstructing pedestrians could be prosecuted by police. If half on and half off the pavement there was a grey area. JR said there should be enforcement if parked on a double yellow line. 

He added why a vehicle number registration camera could not placed at Candleriggs to catch offenders driving through a pedestrian zone. Angus said the Council could not issue fines on the basis of CCTV footage. It had to be observed by a parking attendant or other relevant officer.

In answer to a query from Eileen Angus said Councillors were awaiting word from officials about repairs to a damaged wall on the corner of Trongate/Glasgow Cross.

Angus said statistics on penalties imposed because of the Low Emission Zone would be available at the end of the first month.

Eva said some cities had enjoyed success in designating a street art area. 

There had been a useful discussion about the world cycling championships at the Area Partnership meeting.

Tam noted that Calton Community Council had contacted GCC about disturbances ‘celebrating’ Celtic’s win of the Scottish football league title. 

Scott asked if GCC had taken further talks with football clubs about such anti-social behaviour. Angus said this was a recent phenomenon and he was disturbed by it. It would be better if Celtic could organise an event at Parkhead. Philip said this could be unrealistic.

Scott said there had been almost no attempt by Celtic FC to stop the mass march on Glasgow Cross. He was astonished that Irish flags had been put up over a mile along London Road. Angus said the Council did not condone erection of such flags.

Gary suggested that MCTCC should meet Celtic FC in advance of the new season to try to resolve the issue. It was unacceptable for a large area of the city centre to be shut down in such a way. Angus said early engagement would be welcome. Eva said it would be a good idea to have an operation, with shared intelligence, such as that based around Partick police station for major events at Kelvingrove Park. 

DH said a ban on off-sales of alcohol around the area would be helpful.

Scott asked about the status of Community Enforcement Officers (CEOs). In April MCTCC had been given a number by Denise Hamilton on which they could be contacted. This had proved to be wrong and there had been no response to a message he had left on voicemail several weeks ago. Had the number of CEOs been slashed? He had heard of 50 being reduced to 10. Philip explained these officers could impose on-the-spot fines for minor offences. If there was to be a reduction in staffing numbers the city centre would largely be unaffected.

Angus said that for budget reasons the number of CEOs was indeed going to be cut. However, it was not such a drastic reduction as 50 down to 10 although the latter figure could be correct. Eva said CEOs were not involved in combating public disorder. 

 5. Litter pick and recycling

Niall has contacted GCC with MCTCC’s recommendations following its litter pick in April.

6. Planning

An application had been made for change of use of offices in Glassford Street into a pub. Tam said MCTCC should object on the ground of over-provision.  

Mark said that in the vicinity bordering Virginia Street there are now (or shortly would be) 10 or so bar/club/entrances, exits and rooftop establishments. He pitied local residents. It was often difficult to sleep and the area was becoming predominantly a centre of adult entertainment. Wilson Street and Virginia Street used to be a residential district so those who bought properties could not be blamed for knowing it would turn into this kind of area. 

Peter reported that HMW in Argyll Street was changing its frontage.

JR said those behind the night time economy were putting business before people. What benefit were such outlets bringing to local people? He would close them all at midnight.

Scott asked if it would be worthwhile having a presentation on the new St Enoch Masterplan. Eva noted this was so far only a planning application in principle so it might be better to wait for more details.  

7. ‘Merchant City Park’ 

Eileen summarised the Pre-Examination Meeting (PEM) held over Teams video earlier that day in connection with the Scottish Government’s ‘calling in’ of the application to build 109 apartments on the site of the NCP car park in Ingram Street.

The purpose of the PEM was to set out further procedural arrangements.  Attendees included the developers, City Property LLP, KSG Acoustics, MCTCC Councillors and others. Among focal points were GCC’s Open Space Strategy, surface water matters, the ‘Agent of Change’ principle concerning the impact of noise from entertainment venues, and changes brought about by the introduction of The Fourth National Planning Framework (NPF4).

Third parties have until 4 August to update their representations on NPF4. A site visit will take place, limited to up to three people nominated to represent ‘other interested parties.’

(The Reporter subsequently confirmed her preference to schedule a hearing on the matter)

Scott noted that NPF4 mentioned national waterfront developments in Dundee and Aberdeen but not Glasgow.

Community Councillors will discuss the outcomes at their next Mid Monthly Meeting.

8. Treasurer’s report

Carla reported a total of £10,750.68 in the bank following receipt of £200 from ITV for filming of the ‘Shetland’ series in Miller Street.

9. Grant giving scheme

Niall reported that one application has been received but was outside our area (from Glasgow Life for a contribution to poster displays outside the Museum of Modern Art).

Niall will issue another appeal for applications in advance of the first deadline of end-July. Suggestions are welcome.

Eva suggested contacting Impact Art, an organisation recommended by DH.

DH suggested spending money from the grant giving fund on printing out copies of NPF4 since this would be relevant to many planning applications. Tam said any application  should be made to the MCTCC sub-committee. Eva said it might be possible to order a copy from the Scottish Government.

10. Ramshorn graveyard

DH said there was a lot of litter and bins were overflowing.

11. Website and other publicity

Niall said quotes for re-design had been received from four suppliers, with wide price ranges. He and Ros will discuss to proceed but the current expectation is that those shortlisted will be invited to give a short presentation to a future mid-monthly meeting. 

Twitter - MCTCC now has 230 followers. A recent tweet about inconsiderate parking on Candleriggs increased engagement substantially and gained new followers.

Mailing list - our privacy and social media policies will be updated effective from 1st August. Details will be sent to our mailing list on 3 July.

New posters are available for shops, cafes and residential buildings. Volunteers are required to distribute them.

Date of next meeting: Tuesday 25 July, 6.30 pm, City Chambers

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by admin

Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2023

Meeting of Merchant City and Trongate Community Council - Tuesday 30 May 2023, City Chambers, from 6.30 pm

Attended by: Tam Coyle (Chair), Gary Atkinson, David Cowan, Mark Dougan, Peter Hayman, Eileen Mills, Scott Thornton; Ward Councillor Eva Bolander; DF, DH, MH, TMcK; Police constables Rob Wilson, Sean McFadden and probationary constable Ben Oliver; By video - Depute Lord Provost Christy Mearns, Nicole Mitchell (Evening Times)

1. Welcome and Apologies

Tam welcomed everyone to the meeting. 

Apologies: Councillors Philip Braat and Angus Millar; Carla Arrighi, Niall McColl, Colin McKay, Ros Wardley-Smith

2. Minutes of Previous Meeting (25 April)

Approved with amendments: Item 6 - Reference was to Osborne Street not Hutcheson Street; DH attended. Scott to forward corrected version to Steven Dowling.

3. Police Report

Tam said late night parking on pavements remained widespread with often the same cars offending week in and week out. 

PC Wilson said  police powers were limited but there had been an improvement in the situation in Brunswick Street with new signs and yellow lines. Engagements with businesses had been positive. 

Tam complained about the noise from buskers at the foot of Miller Street. PC Wilson said a scheduled Day of Action in the city centre had not taken place because of operational contingencies but was planned for later.

PC McFadden thought the buskers’ code of contact had been quietly ‘refreshed’ but Eva said this was not the case as far as Glasgow City Council was concerned. He might have been referring to the old Code which she circulated a month or so ago. 

Tam asked for information on what the legal decibel level should be. PC Wilson said this was a matter for Glasgow Council.

DH asked if there was any initiative to stop the continuing incidence of graffiti by gangs marking out their territory, including on the Clyde Walkway where he had seen four offenders using ladders. Surely these had been observed on CCTV? There should be a zero tolerance policy because the impact was contagious. PC Wilson said all such incidents should be reported on 101 since police then had an audit trail. Gang ‘tags’ could be applied quickly. 

In response to a question from DF he said that over the past 6-12 months there had been a worrying increase in youths carrying knives and other weapons.

David Cowan asked if the anti-social behaviour in and around Glasgow Cross on Saturday night was to be allowed to be an annual event. Eva said the Council was setting up a meeting to achieve more ‘joined up thinking’ about how to stop it. There should be more of an onus on the football clubs. 

Scott said he had seen hundreds of fans heading to Parkhead in the afternoon before the match, carrying and drinking alcohol.

4. Presentation from Lorenzo Mele, Merchant City Festival and World Cycling Championships  (3-18 August)

Lorenzo was representing Glasgow Life to talk mainly about the cultural events which are being incorporated in the Championships which he described as the biggest sports event in the world in 2023. 

He explained there were 10 host venues, mostly in Glasgow. The ‘Go Live!’ focal point, Fan Zone area and finish line would be in George Square (open 9 am to 8 pm) with other hubs including Glasgow Green, Tollcross Park, Knightswood, Cathkin Braes and the Emirates Stadium.  People would be encouraged to try out new sports. Road race ‘activation sites’ would include Kelvingrove Park, City of Glasgow College, Argyle Street and Merchant Square. All events and access would be free. 

There would be extensive disruption in the city centre. Road closures and restrictions would be in place from 31 July. Information would be available on getreadyglasgow.com and emails could be sent to [email protected].

Business engagement sessions would take place in early June and explanatory letters sent to residents.

Peter asked if closed off roads could be used to allow people to enjoy cycling and admire the city centre  sights without traffic. It would be an ideal opportunity to showcase Glasgow. 

Scott asked if any tickets would be required for access to George Square to which Lorenzo replied it would be ‘first come first served.’ Scott said this risked squeezing a quarter into a pint pot since there was likely to be massive demand for access to a relatively small area. 

Peter said he found the artists’ impression of George Square which Lorenzo presented was overly optimistic in terms of spectator numbers. There were likely to be many more. 

Eva said public services such as rubbish uplifts were bound to be affected, including the build-up to the championships which Lorenzo advised would start in George Square from 25 July. How would this be communicated to residents? Lorenzo said there would be a live Twitter feed with an email address and telephone number for contact. Scott said any telephone lines should be adequately staffed. 

In answer to a question from Peter, Lorenzo said organisers had not yet tackled the impact of sponsors’ promotional activities. 

5. Elected Members Reports

Eva reported that the application in principle for the Master Plan for redevelopment of St Enoch Square had been approved by GCC’s Planning Committee this morning. She had been impressed how well the developers had listened to the views of the community.  The development was less massed in scale than previously with buildings no more than 10-12 storeys high. No one on the Committee had raised any objection. However, as ever the devil would be in the detail. 

Peter found the artists’ impression published in the Evening Times to be underwhelming and wondered if Glasgow Council could exert its influence to ensure Glasgow’s fine buildings in the vicinity were retained.

She explained the Council’s advice on introduction of the Low Emission Zone which in theory was being enforced from 1 June. (A letter to residents issued this week said residents in the Zone will not need to meet its requirements until 1 June 2024 but if their vehicle did not meet emission standards and wanted to take advantage of this grace period they would need to apply to the Council). Eileen felt notification of the LEZ had been left too late. 

Tam said the gates of the Ramshorn cemetery were being closed at 4 pm every day. Why could they not be left open longer during the Summer?

Scott asked if Eva’s reference to a ‘surgery’ as part of the St Enoch development meant a GP surgery. Eva said there might be some kind of medical establishment. Scott said here had been no mention of this in the most recent property report by Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership. 

In response to a question from Scott about how many Council staff were continuing to work from home post-Covid Eva said there had a drop of around one-third in all (not just Council) people working in city centre offices or businesses. Return to offices was one of the issues being tackled by the City Centre Recovery Task Force. The cost of living crisis was another major impediment to the recovery of hospitality since many people were packing lunch boxes instead of going out to restaurants or cafes. 

Christy said a quote had been received for a dozen bollards on the East side of Candleriggs at a cost of £25,000 which had been deemed prohibitive. What was included in the quote? 

6. Planning

On behalf of MCTCC Peter will lodge an objection to the proposal to build Purpose Built Student accommodation in Osborne Street/New Wynd.

Eileen provided an update on the proposal to build 109 apartments on the NCP car park in Ingram Street rather than create a Merchant City Park for which the Community Council had campaigned for four years. The Reporter has advised she will hold a public inquiry or hearing into the Scottish Government’s ‘Calling In’ of the application. 

Despite assurances from the Scottish Government some of the 151 named objectors had not received a letter or email inviting them to take part in an inquiry or hearing. Anyone who had not received such a communication needed to contact SG by Friday. 

In relation to a possible change of use for the former Bose premises at 136 Ingram Street (to include food and drink) Eva said it was becoming easier for premises to change their classification. 

Mark said metal chimneys from cafes or restaurants rose no further than roof height which meant apartments on that level could be subjected to unpleasant cooking smells. Ward Councillors suggested MCTCC ask GCC Planning to consult with Community Councils on the issues of change of use and extraction ventilation but what should be stated in that request?

7. Licensing

Social Hub Hotel (Candleriggs quarter) - Mark asked why a hotel would need an off-sale licence. What would be the benefit to hotel residents? To be discussed at the next Mid Monthly Meeting.

8.  Treasurer’s Report

Total of £10,200 in the bank with another £500 invoiced to ITV for compensation for local residents for filming of the ‘Shetland’ series in Miller Street.

9. Friends of Ramshorn

Very positive first meeting held. Minutes to be circulated. Domain name to be selected and registered. 

10. Website and other publicity

IT Security and Privacy policies have been posted on the Community Council’s Website.

11. Grant giving scheme

No application yet received.

12. Other business

Area Partnership meeting to be held in the afternoon of Tuesday 15 June; Ward 10 Community Councils’ meeting to take place that same evening. Eva said the latter should feed into the former. 

Next meeting: Tuesday 27 June - 6.30 pm in City Chambers.

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by admin

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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by admin

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