Meeting Minutes, 25 February 2025

DRAFT MINUTES

Meeting of Merchant City and Trongate Community Council (MCTCC)

Glasgow City Chambers on 25th February 2025

Community Cllrs: Tam Coyle (Chair), David Hughes, Niall McColl, David Cowan, Gordon Millar, Gary Atkinson and Ros Wardley-Atkinson.

Assoc. Comm. Cllr Ross Naismith.

Elected Cllrs:   Cllr Angus Millar, also Alisdair McDougal from Kaukab Stewart MSP Office.

Police:              PC Martin and PC Ishfaq.

Ex-Officio:       Gary Fanning (The Splash).

Residents:       DF, RA, MG, KG, RE, GMcI and TMcK.

By video link:  Cllr Eva Bolander, Alice Cowan, EM, GW and AM

Apologies:      Scott Thornton, Colin McKay, Peter Hayman, Depute Lord Provost Christy Mearns and Cllr Philip Braat.

MINUTES OF 28TH JANUARY MEETING

The previous minutes are available on the MCTCC website.

Adoption of minutes: Proposed by David Cowan, Seconded by Gary Atkinson. Carried.

POLICE REPORT

PC Martin read out from a Police Report for the MCTCC area prepared by PC Baxter. 

From the 1st to the 25th of February a total of 77 crimes were reported of which 39 had been detected. This included theft (especially from retail premises), possession of controlled substances, road traffic offences and disorder offences.  A warrant search at a property was carried out and report submitted to the Procurator Fiscal (PF).  

PC Ishfaq reported they have been attending to local issues such as ebike riders. Since the end of December 2024, they have seized 24 illegal e-bikes and reported 102 offences to the PF. They continue to be proactive in monitoring their impact on the streets. An unannounced day of action is planned in the near future.

A resident complained about ebikes not using cycle lanes when they are available and riding on the pavement instead, very near to pedestrians. It was discussed how ebikes are not allowed on payments.  

The police have been monitoring Ramshorn Graveyard and the New and Old Wynd lanes. 

Gary Atkinson has had reports of people gaining access to private doorways to take drugs, sleep or cause damage.  

ELECTED MEMBERS’ REPORTS

Councillor Millar

Councillor Millar attended the MCTCC litter picking event on Saturday 22nd of February.

He also attended the recent walkabout survey with community councillors and Louise Stewart, the Community Neighbourhood Liaison Officer. She will follow up on the issues discussed such as drainage problems and poor or damaged signage on High Street.  

Cllr Millar attended the Custom House Quay consultation where he saw several CC members.  He has contacted the developers at Dixon St and Broomielaw area regarding the long term lack of progress on the site.

Ross Naismith commented on the excess street furniture on Glassford St; from to Wilson St to Ingram St, where there are 11 poles on the pavement.  Cllr Millar will enquire as to the feasibility of removing any redundant poles or having the information otherwise displayed, on a wall for example.

GW noted how binmen are coming to empty the bins at the Santa Lucia restaurant, near to Albion St and Ingram St, at 5am which wakes everyone up.  Tam enquired about the upcoming band marches, he understands that they will not be allowed to go to George Square, to lay a wreath for example.  Tam commented the streetlights at the bottom of Millar St have not been working for five months, residents have reported this many times.  

Ebikes

Cllr Millar confirmed that ebike cyclists, under the Highway Code, are not allowed on pavements unless there are signs to say otherwise. It is unacceptable to ride in a way that endangers anyone. The police do stop ebikes if they have been recklessly towards a member of the public. Tam noted that MCTCC recommended that ebikes riders wear an identifiable number tabards, or such like, to be made more traceable.  

RA enquired about what the situation on the pedestrian precincts such as on Argyle St or Buchanan St?  Cllr Millar believed they should dismount, depending on how crowded the street is. Ros Wardley Atkinson enquired if there could be any signage for ebike riders to slow down in pedestrian areas to act as a deterrent. Cllr Millar would take this onboard for consideration.

George Square Redevelopment

Cllr Millar recently attended an exhibition on the redevelopment of George Square. 

A George Square Redevelopment Communication Plan has been setup. Information notice boards will soon be erected in the square to improve public awareness of the project phases.

The information on the boards have received positive feedback. However, Ross Naismith considers they are hard to read due to the being too dark. Cllr Millar has heard that the surface on which the text is printed makes it difficult to read

GCC have laid sand on the former grass areas until upcoming events and construction is complete. This will save money from having to re-turf them several times over

Gary Atkinson suggested that perhaps a QR code might be put on the George Square noticeboards so people can learn more or enquire further, Cllr Millar agreed.  Kieran Buchanan, who is part of The Avenues project, will be giving a presentation at the March MCTCC meeting.

Councillor Eva Bolander

Councillor Eva Bolander reported the GCC annual budget has been approved. This  includes added revenue for the Cleansing Services and the Deep clean Team.  She has a meeting next week with The High Street Reference Group which MCTCC has contributed to with neighbouring CCs. She reminded everyone that the benches are being relocated from George Square during the redevelopment works. They may be taken back once the project is complete.  

PLANNING ISSUES

Ross Naismith spoke to the King St car park developers recently who are looking to renew their planning application by the start of the next quarter.

He attended the Custom House Quay and Calton Place consultations and put forward our endorsement, subject to conditions. They will submit a PPP, which means ‘planning permission in principle’. Both projects will have a review for further input.

He reminded the meeting of the consultation on the new hotel development in Maxwell Street on will take place in Granite House on Thursday 27th February.

He will attend an ‘in person hearing’ on the proposal at Old Wynd at Osborne St, this a proposal for a 15 storey building. MCTCC put an objection for this development in early 2024. The architect of Heritage Society of Scotland also put an objection. He is minded to submit a second objection due the height and the saturation of student accommodation in Glasgow. 

Ross Naismith suggested that if student accommodation is to be built, it should be designed to be flexible enough such that it can be reconfigured to accommodate regular apartments in the future. Objections about the concentration have not been as successful as those complaining about the lack of design merit. 

David Hughes added that Sarah Shaw, head of planning, gave a presentation to the Area Partnership (AP) last December on student housing. A holistic view about the number of developments was not considered, but only the individual application basis, however this is now changing. 

Tam and Gary met the Drum developers the week previous regarding the three plots adjacent to Candleriggs.  Drum developments have a PPP to delay starting building from 2025 to 2028.

The Clutha Vaults have put a planning application for a LED light presentation board around the roof of the bar at the end of the Broomielaw. It is 20m long, 5m high and will include flashing LED lights. MCTCC is minded to object.

Ross has approached the local Councillors about improvement plans for High Street. 

It is anticipated that the existing plans will be reviewed. Cllr Millar has expressed a view, along with Bailie Christy Mearns, of increased ‘greening’ from George St down to Trongate.

The final decision by the Scottish Government Reporter has approved the Artisan Developers residential development application at Ingram St.  This is where the Merchant City Park (MCP) group fought to community ownership to install a park instead. The main condition attributed by the Reporter relates to noise proofing from the Fruitmarket Concert Hall to the new residential building. 

Local Place Plan (LPP)

David Hughes, as well as several other community councillors, have been attending the online training courses to develop a LPP. 

NW AREA PARTNERSHIP

David Hughes attended the last Area Partnership meeting on the 13th of February. Police Inspector Jonny Watters gave a report on how they are implementing the new Busking Action Plan. Officers will patrol the city centre fortnightly accompanied by GCC Community Enforcement Officers discuss this with street performers.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are currently holding a public consultation on its strategy for 2025-2028. It closes on Wednesday 2nd of April. It can be accessed here: 

https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/get-involved/consultations/sfrs-strategy-2025-2028/

David Hughes has submitted 5 bids for the National Infrastructure Fund by the 21st of February. This included the planting of 74 trees in the Merchant City; a new children’s play area on Albion St / Ingram St; pedestrianisation of Candleriggs; refurbishment of the Tron Steeple and the replacement of 2 dead trees on Ingram St.  There are 7 CCs eligible to apply with their list of 5 bids.  The bids will be voted for approval at the next AP meeting on the 27th of March.

Ross Naismith will have an informal meeting with David Hughes and Cllr Millar to discuss how these initiatives could still be taken forward if not successful with AP funding. MCTCC have applied to the LEZ fund for tree planting.

Two seating benches have been installed on Ingram St, which came from George Square. There are more benches available, people should contact Cllr Eva Bolander if they have suggestions of suitable locations. It was suggested the area outside the Old Sherriff Court, however this may be subject to planning permission. Gary Atkinson added the Drum developers who will contact Cllr Bolander direct for bench seating. 

Student housing will be discussed at the next AP meeting and may issue a statement regarding this which could feed into the next City Development Plan.

LICENCING

There is an application for a market on Osbourne St from 25th April to 25th May and will have 25 stalls.  This is at the back of Argyle St Rail Station, near to the taxi rank. The last day to object is the 18th of April.

LOCAL ISSUES

Busking

The police will carry out a day of action to ensure the recently published code of conduct is being adhered to.

Pavement, and Double, Parking

Tam reported there is a lot of double parking on Millar Street. He enquired who is responsible for monitoring parking after 8pm at night when the majority of infringements take place.  Cllr Millar will feedback to Tam.

Public Toilet Consultation

No update this month.

Litter Pick

David Hughes was pleased the Saturday 22nd February event was a success. There were 22 volunteers including 8 community councilors, 9 new attendees and 4 people from The Garment Factory. They collected 32 bags of litter.  A follow up email was received from a group across the river who will carry out a litter pick there, DH shall loan the equipment.  

Gordon Millar observed a noticeable difference in the cleanliness of our area now. There is a large amount of litter on the River Clyde riverbank at Calton Place. There is an opportunity to link up with other groups for future clean-ups.

David Hughes asked Cllr Millar what provisions are in place for the litter closer to the river, over the metal fence.  GCC hire a specialist contractor to do this. This issue was noted during the walkabout survey. Louise Stewart has undertaken to see if this can be arranged.

FRIENDS OF THE RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD (FORG)

David Hughes reported the next quarterly meeting is the 12th of March. He attended a first aid course in St Andrews, he has arranged public liability insurance for FORG. A suitable uniform for tour guide duties will be purchased.  They will start to advertise in March with a view to starting tours in June.

WEBSITE AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Niall McColl reported the final draft of the updated website will be finished this week.

The community survey will take place in April.

The two MCTCC noticeboards have been deteriorated due to vandalism over the last few years despite being cleaned. An email will be sent to community councillors to consider what is the best option going forward.

TREASURER’S REPORT

Gordon Millar (Treasurer) reported MCTCC have £,6,725.51 in the bank. Tam invited funding applications, for use within our area, to be submitted for consideration.

Niall McColl reported that House Productions will be filming in Wilson St and will make a donation to affected residents and MCTCC.

Emails from GCC with funding opportunities now only be received by Gordon Millar.  

AOCB

Scottish Premier League Celebration Plan

Regarding the end of the football season celebrations for the winners of Scottish Premier League, Tam, Scott Thornton and Alistair McDougall (from Kaukab Stewart MSP office) met with John Grady MP two weeks ago. 

Tam suggested the use of Celtic Park, the Emirates Arena and/or Glasgow Green to distribute crowds and reduce pressure on the local area. A meeting is scheduled for March 28th at Hampden Park with multiple agencies to discuss the situation. Ross Naismith welcomed this initiative and believed it could make the celebrations at least more manageable.

Gary Atkinson attended the Glasgow Life Forum last week for the City Centre Strategy 2030. He noted after the presentation there was no reference the much-publicised Tourism Levy or Business Improvement Districts (BIDs). Cllr Millar believed once both had been confirmed they would be incorporated in the end document.

David Cowan noted a chess club now runs in the Namaste Indian restaurant in St Enochs Center on Wednesday evenings between 6-9pm.

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 25th March, 6.30-8.30 pm in City Chambers

by Richard Longmuir

Upcoming Road Closures

by Richard Longmuir

Meeting Minutes, 27 August 2024

These draft minutes will be presented at our meeting on 24th September for approval

Meeting of Merchant City and Trongate Community Council held on  27 August 2024 in City Chambers, from 6.30 pm

Attended by: Tam Coyle (Chair), Gary Atkinson, David Hughes, Niall McColl, Gordon Millar, Ross Naismith, Scott Thornton, Rosalind Wardley-Smith, Ward Councillors Baillie Christy Mearns and Angus Millar, PC Sean McFadden, RA, CD, ND, MD, DF, AM, AMcD, AMcD, HMcD, TMcK, KL, MR, NM, PP.

By Zoom video: Alice Cowan, David Cowan, AC, SL, EM, JR

Apologies: Councillor Eva Bolander, Peter Hayman, Colin McKay, PS

MINUTES OF 30 JULY MEETING

Proposed by Tam Coyle, seconded by Niall McColl. Approved. 

POLICE ISSUES

PC McFadden (SMcF) reported that in the period 30 July to 27 Aug in the MCTCC area (for police purposes this excludes the St Enoch Centre) there were a total of 160 reported crimes, 52 of which were detected - i.e. someone was apprehended or the perpetrator known. These figures are indicative. Crimes included assault, bail offences and retail thefts. 

Tam asked about a recent instance of a vehicle being driven the wrong way way up Candleriggs and noted that the southern part of that street is signposted pedestrian-only. He quoted residents as saying there were not enough police officers visible on the street but noted that often they were in plain clothes and not in uniform.

SMcF said the Ramshorn graveyard had become a hot spot for drugs misuse and was receiving a lot of police attention. Arrests had been made, partly after alerts from the public. Police were also liaising with Glasgow City Council about clearing up needles. David Hughes thanked police for their interventions.

Police had a contingency plan to cope with a possible demonstration in George Square on 7 September by supporters and opponents of the Far Right.

Police had taken action against illegal e-bikes which were sometimes being ridden at excessive speeds.

In response to a point by a resident about slow police response times Tam said the issue was on the agenda for MCTCC officials’ regular meetings with the city centre Police Inspector.

DISTURBANCES BY FOOTBALL FANS

Scott reported that earlier today he and Gary met MSP Kaukab Stewart (who kindly hosted the meeting) and representatives of Celtic and Rangers football clubs to discuss ways of avoiding repetitions of the anti-social behaviour experienced in May 2023 and May 2024. 

WARD COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS

Baillie Mearns, catching up on issues following her maternity leave, said she was pleased with various aspects of the refreshed pending planning application for development of the King Street car park.

She was also pleased budget funding had been approved for the ‘Trees for Streets’ project. The Council is now looking at possible sites.

Baillie Mearns expressed thanks to MCTCC for its donation to Impact Arts which recently celebrated its 30th birthday.

Councillor Millar said there would be another community walkabout with Ward Councillors on 17 September (1-2.30 pm). Scott to advise details and meeting point. ACTION: Scott 

The ‘direction of travel’ for development of the waterfront between Custom Quay and Stockwell Street was on a smaller scale with greater emphasis on stabilising the quay wall and improving the public realm.

There would be a consultation on Tuesday 3 September (12–3 pm) on the High Street Avenues project. Venue: 231 George Street.

DF asked about the lack of trees around new housing developments.

He went on to complain about the standard of street cleansing and lack of Glasgow City Council (GCC) resources. Was GCC relying overly on volunteers doing litter picks? Money was being spent on ‘pointless’ projects such as painting bins (often covered with graffiti) rather than on such a basic requirement.  

RN said he, Gary and Scott had a constructive meeting with developers of the King Street car park on site yesterday and were assured their comments were being taken on board. Their attitude on a connection between Trongate and The Briggait mirrored ours. The developers also agreed planning would be flexible to meet changing demands of the marketplace. 

Scott said this showed the benefits of early consultation with residents. Thanks in large measure to Ross’ experience and expertise we had been able to perhaps influence the plans.

Noting that the plan included more student accommodation, he repeated MCTCC’s plea to GCC to get a grip on the issue. The Community Council had complained time after time about over-concentration of Purpose Built Student Accommodation yet applications were continuing to be approved. The inclusion of ‘Co-Living’ in the King Street plan was student accommodation by another name.

Ross said he was underwhelmed by the first two presentations he had attended on the Avenues project. The Custom Quay-Stockwell project did not address residential requirements. 

In response to a complaint from RA about fouling by pigeons and seagulls, Councillor Millar said signage could be improved to ask the public not to feed birds. Commercial waste was a particular problem. GCC had set times for this and perhaps enforcement on businesses which did not adhere to this should be stepped up. 

ND said a smoking area behind Pipeworks “gentlemen’s sauna’ in Metropole Lane was not only causing a fire risk because it is in an enclosed space but also creating noise into the wee small hours right outside her flat. ACTION: Angus 

Another resident complained about regular parking on double yellow lines by contractors working on the new Afro-Caribbean supermarket being built on the former Corrigans fishmongers’ site on Howard Street.

Angus said he would look into a problem  reported by BR about water ingress into flats in Montrose Street. ACTION: Angus

KL brought up the issue of a taxi rank set up without due notice outside the GPO Building in Ingram Street. This had been raised with Councillor Braat two meetings ago. Scott said he had received no reply from GCC to his query asking when the re-siting of the rank from George Square had been advised to local residents. Tam will discuss with Councillor Braat. ACTION: Tam

HOMELESS PROJECT SCOTLAND

Earlier in the meeting TD had raised problems arising from Homeless Project Scotland (HPS). 

Tam summarised that this opened in Glassford Street last December as a homeless shelter and was serving food. 

GCC had ordered the owner and occupier to apply for planning permission (change of use from offices) by 31 March but no such application had been lodged. 

Scott said meetings had been held with senior GCC officers including the Head of Planning in early June and a letter sent to the Chief Executive, Council Leader and Scottish Government. Meetings had been held with MSP Kaukab Stewart, all to no avail. 

However, he had been assured at a meeting with a senior GCC officer last week that a Planning Enforcement Notice would be served to the owner and occupier at the end of August.

It was disappointing that no reply had been received from Food Standards Scotland six weeks after MCTCC asked it to advise whether HPS had the relevant licence. 

Gary added that lack of action by Glasgow City Council was continuing to deprive local residents of the opportunity to comment on an application. 

Tam said it was the most frustrating case he had encountered in his 18 years on the Community Council. Sleeping accommodation was provided but there was only one fire escape. 

Councillor Millar said he shared Tam’s frustration. Intensive efforts had been made to find an alternative site.

Gordon said it was clear the site had not been zoned for that activity so why was it being asked to apply for planning consent for a purpose to which it was not entitled? What was the point of zoning in the first place?

LICENSING

An application had been lodged for an ‘Escape Room’ in the St Enoch Centre. Tam said MCTCC had no objection.

Gary explained that permission for bars or restaurants to provide pavement tables was covered by their overall licence based on the space allowed. They did not need a separate licence.

PLANNING

Tam said Ross was now assisting Peter Hayman with planning issues.

Ross had responded to GCC’s consultation on tall buildings on a personal basis but the Community Council now had to respond on its own behalf. All comments should be passed to the Secretary by 13 September, after which he will draft a response in conjunction with the Chair and co-Vice Chairs.

Scott said he and Gary met with senior GCC planners to discuss the George Square development and Avenues project between Custom Quay and Stockwell Street. We were keen to avoid problems encountered with the Sauchiehall Street works and requested residents’ representation, as an observer, on a monitoring body for George Square redevelopment. 

We were offered a 1-1 update each month and a presentation at our October meeting. Scott will arrange this. ACTION: Scott

Scott added that a presentation on the Custom Quay-Stockwell Street project may be delivered to an MCTCC meeting early in the New Year. 

George St/High Street derelict site - Scott has asked Ward Councillors to advise the status of this eyesore. Tam said the developer had run out of money. Angus is following up. ACTION: Angus 

Second stage of Candleriggs Square - Tam, Gary and Scott have met the developer to discuss this, with building due to start early next year. Tam said designs for a new mural would be presented to the Community Council when available. 

RA asked about the Pride pavement in Wilson Street. Tam said the first MCTCC knew about it was when it was finished. it was uneven and created a trip hazard. 

David Hughes said Local Development Plans fed into city development plans so it was important for MCTCC to comment on LDPs on issues such as student accommodation.

Pride Mural on AXM building, Glassford Street - Tam said the telephone number he’d been given does not accept messages. It was noted this 12 x 7 metres mural will dominate a large part of conservation area and will include advertising. ACTION: Tam

TD said AXM did not own the building.

LITTER PICK

David Hughes said this would take place on Saturday 21 September, from 10.30-1pm, meeting at the Ramshorn graveyard gate. MCTCC has received grant funding from Glasgow City Council for equipment which will be provided to volunteers. ACTION: David Hughes 

GRANT GIVING SCHEME

Niall said there was currently £6,500 in the fund and summarised the criteria. Further applications are welcome. Applicants do not have to be a registered charity. ACTION: All

FRIENDS OF THE RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD

Free public tours will be organised next year, tour guides trained and story boards created. The next meeting will be held from 6.30-8.30 pm on 4 September with a specialist speaker. More members are welcome. 

WEBSITE AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Niall said an outline of MCTCC’s new Website should be ready by mid-September.

He will draft a short questionnaire to be completed by all Community Councillors as a mini-biog.ACTION: Niall 

TREASURER’S REPORT 

Gordon reported a bank balance £6,573 once outstanding cheques had been cleared. A GCC grant of £700 is expected around November. MCTCC’s accounting year end is end-August.

David Hughes said £367,000 remained in the Area Partnership fund. MCTCC should submit applications for suitable projects, otherwise other Community Councils would spend it. The Merchant City Handbook includes many good ideas and could be used as a source document. Tam said one  project could be installation of a CCTV camera around Parnie Street. ACTION: All

PUBLIC TOILETS

GCC is developing a strategy and actions around public toilets and inviting representations. There are no public toilets in Merchant City/Trongate or on Glasgow Green following closure of the People’s Palace. Scott is liaising with GCC on our response. All comments are welcome. ACTION: Scott/ALL 

NEXT PUBLIC MEETING

Tuesday 24 September, 6.30 pm, City Chambers

by admin

Meeting Minutes, 30 July 2024

Meeting of Merchant City and Trongate Community Council held in City Chambers on 30 July 2024.

Attended by: Scott Thornton (Chair), Gary Atkinson, Rosalind Wardley-Smith, Niall McColl,  Peter Hayman, David Hughes, Gordon Millar;  Glasgow Merchant City Festival representatives; Police Constable Sean McFadden (SMcF); EM, RM, KL, TD, SM, CS, BF, CD, RF,  PS, TMcK, RN 

MSP Kaukab Stewart : Glasgow City Council - Lise Fisher and David MacDonald, Rowan Evenstar - Blythswood & Broomhill CC

By Zoom video - Alice Cowan, David Cowan, MS, SL, AC, EM

Apologies: Tam Coyle, Peter Hayman, Ward Councillors Philip Braat and Eva Bolander

MINUTES OF 25 JUNE MEETING

Adoption proposed by Gordon Millar, seconded by Gary Atkinson. Approved.

POLICE ISSUES

PC McFadden (SMcF) reported indicative crime statistics as follows for the period 25 June to 25 July in the MCTCC area: 203 offences reported of which 107 were detected. These included assaults on police officers, street drinking, possession of controlled substances, threatening and abusive behaviour, and retail theft. Main involvement related to licensed premises.

Priority locations have been a focus of attention, working from local feedback.

A number of major events, including The Open Golf, TRNSMT, General Election, Pride and marching season have taken up more resources than usual.

Day of action on Illegal e- bikes - 4 July- 11 bikes confiscated that were not road- legal. Further enforcement action is expected as well as continuing engagement.

MSP KS asked about police action in the Trongate area. SMcF reported there were regular high visibility patrols, supplemented by additional resources when available. In response to a further query on whether anti-social activity was growing, SMcF anecdotally viewed more activity, particularly when the weather is better.

There were several concerns raised around drug dealing & needles in the Ramshorn graveyard and associated shoplifting from the local Sainsbury’s.

Concerns were raised on the perceived increase of tents appearing in different parts of the city centre. Police and GCC were aware and work with third sector services to support those individuals to limit the number of tents.

The area around the Portland Street suspension bridge was raised by RN given the, at times, intimidating atmosphere. RW-S raised the change in demographics in the MCTCC area and associated impacts and asked if any data was available?

Issues were discussed around accessing flats’ communal areas in Ingram street being used for drug dealing/taking and rough sleeping. Police will engage with factors involved to ensure all security measures are being implemented.

GA emphasised that reporting of incidents is helpful to police as it provides data.

Presentation from Glasgow City Council on Safe Needle Bins trial

Lise Fisher (Neighbourhood Liaison Manager Ward 10) presented feedback from the trial (May 2023 for 6 months):

Accessible Sharps disposal bin located in New Wynd Lane, Trongate (No. 1 location historically for needles) to address the concerns of local people given the number of items discarded.

Trial collected around 5,000 items in the period including needles and associated paraphernalia. This was during a period where there was an increase in drug usage in the area.

The bin is still in use and being monitored and utilised.

In future other areas such as car parks may also have “sharps” bins where regular use is reported. These areas are monitored to see if an additional bin would be effective.

Reporting of sharps items helps GCC assess resource priorities. Best way is via the MyGlasgow app which has a map locator for reporting and identifies clusters of discarded needles. The reporting options will be added to the MCTCC website ACTION: Niall

There was a query about whether personal data from the MyGlasgow App would be used (not believed to be the case).

DM noted that there were approximately 8,500 regular users in Glasgow and 400-500 in the city centre. There is a voluntary system of care and treatment to help control addiction, though it is felt Glasgow draws users from around the country.

The Hunter Street health facility is now close to completion, with staff recruited. This will provide more support for the more serious drugs. GCC/HSCP are awaiting a Letter of Comfort from the Lord Advocate. Recently there has been an application for a “drug checking” facility at Hunter street to increase intelligence on street drug chemistry.

MSP KS indicated that Christina McKelvie (Scottish Minister for Drugs and Alcohol) is actively involved in these issues.

GA highlighted the potential risks of some new student planning applications close to McDonalds in Argyle Street that may add to the existing volume of users. 

Lise Fisher updated the meeting on the Street Art on Custom Quay - a “Legal Wall” six month pilot which will allow officially sanctioned art in the area. The main issue is that there are now less resources allocated to graffiti cleaning by GCC. DH flagged that some of the artists involved in the Custom Quay project are also covering private buildings. 

MSP’s Report - Kaukab Stewart

Issues raised with our MSP include cladding remediation, which has been a major point. KS clarified that wooden decking is included within the Single Building Assessment (SBA) programme.

The Merchant City car park planning application decision was discussed.

Homeless Project Scotland (HPS) - GCC Planning have confirmed no application has been received, in addition to issues raised on safeguarding of occupants and fire safety (no breaches reported). A Planning Enforcement notice will now be issued by GCC (date awaited for issue). KS will follow up. ACTION: KS

Elaine Bennet of Spires Apartments said the building was sold to Quintessential for retail/offices. There had been lots of complaints from Spires’ guests about anti-social behaviour from soup kitchen users and Spires had lost business. She quoted HPS as saying it had agreed a 15 year lease to move the soup kitchen to the ground floor and the accomodation to the basement. This would double kitchen capacity.

Ros mentioned that the management of Social Hub had raised concerns about Brunswick Lane and thereabouts being used for drugs and other antisocial behaviour

Kaukab said the student accommodation issue attracted lobbying from all sites. There needed to be a sustainable solution that met the requirements of all parties.

MCTCC is progressing a request to put a student accommodation moratorium in place for the Merchant City and will discuss with our Ward Councillors at the next meeting.

GM asked about the Single Building Assessment. Had the associated building regulations from the Scottish Government been finalised for cladding remediation buildings?  ACTION: KS

The Pride rainbow pavement at the Merchant City Festival - feedback on several issues in terms of cost, safety for mobility users and if there was any local public consultation. ACTION: Lise Fisher 

Other Matters

Public Consultation on high rise buildings - encourage all to take part and make your views known. MCTCC to discuss if they should submit a formal response - ACTION Scott

George Square - request for local input into the redevelopment submitted. Awaiting a response. ACTION: Scott

TREASURER’S REPORT

Gordon reported a bank balance of £9,722.13 at 30 July.

Discretionary grant funding has been applied for which will followed up by the Treasurer. ACTION: Gordon to discuss with Gerald Tonner @ GCC.

The Annual Administration Fee has also to be confirmed: ACTION: Gordon 

WARD COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS

 No Councillors were in attendance.

In Brief

Website Update - Being re-designed as a ‘Go To’ Hub for local information.

Ramshorn graveyard - “Puddle” being investigated - GCC has been informed.

College of Printing and Building (Met Tower - 'People Make Glasgow’ building): RN subsequently reported this is up for sale.

Boundary changes impact on MCTCC area query - Now Glasgow East rather than Glasgow Central. 

Planning - Candleriggs development - EM asked if there was any progress as he had noted water pressure issues in his property. ACTION: Gary

NEXT MEETING

Tuesday 27 August, 6.30 pm in City Chambers

by admin

Meeting Minutes, 25 June 2024

Attended by: Scott Thornton(Chair), David Cowan, Gary Atkinson, Rosalind Wardley-Smith, Niall McColl,  Peter Hayman, David Hughes, Gordon Millar ; Lorenzo Mele & Bernadette Fryars - Glasgow Merchant City Festival; Police Constable Sean McFadden; EM, RM, KL, TD, SM, CS, BF, CD, RF,  PS, TMcK, RN; 

By Zoom video - Alice Cowan.

 Apologies: Tam Coyle, Ward Councillors Philip Braat and Eva Bolander;   

MINUTES OF 28 MAY MEETING

Adopted proposed by David Cowan, seconded by Gordon Millar. Approved.

POLICE ISSUES

PC McFadden (SMcF) reported indicative crime statistics as follows for the period 28 May to 25 June in the MCTCC area: 131 offences reported of which 60 were detected. These included assaults on police officers, bail breaches, threatening and abusive behaviour, and retail theft. Main involvement relating to Licenced premises.

Taken a number of crime prevention surveys to help mitigate retail crimes 

Following a report from a member of the public, police had executed a Sheriff’s warrant in Bell Street, but no crime was detected.

Police were now operating “proportionate response to crime” pactice, based on the THRIVE model of assessment,  looking to free up police where there is “no viable lines of enquiry” , Only applies to “low harm & low risk” crimes, eg theft, vandalism & failure to stop (North division found this was c 3.4% of reported crime when they started earlier this year).

Police worked with Wheatley Group to improve the  timely repair process for damaged doors, that were associated with anti social behaviour. Expected to result in faster repairs for these buildings.

The Tron theatre area was discussed, where there had been a significant impact from the recent Football celebrations in Merchant City and regular drug dealing activities. The Police suggested the latter be reported to help focus the appropriate response. Regular Police patrols are planned.

There was no information on E-Bikes, but the Police were planning “days of action”.

It was noted that there would be a GCC presentation on the Needle Bin project at the July mtg. 

Busking - More planned engagement from the Police, no reported enforcement

Graffiti / Vandalism update - Scott attended a meeting with Police Scotland (Paul and Angela Stavely). Main points were encourage reporting of the incidents (E mail / online / Crimestoppers) and the Council have powers to require Private property Owners to clean up damage.

Scott highlighted that GCC have designated part of Custom House Quay area for “Street Art”

MERCHANT CITY FESTIVAL (19-21 July 2024)

Lorenzo Mele, Artistic Director & Bernadette Fryers , Project Manager, Merchant City Festival at Glasgow Life gave a presentation and took questions.

Summary of the programming:

Main Sponsers - Merchant Square, Candleriggs Accomodation & The Social hub

Focus around Merchant Square for Music every day and using SURGE outdoor performances during the 3 days

Friday - Music programming (Celtic Connections organising) / Carnival feel /. Also a Civic reception taking place Friday afternoon.

Saturday - Pride & Family friendly programming

Sunday - 50’s theme / Rockabilly / / Ramshorn graveyard / New Candlerigg Square / Family friendly.

Boardwalk for a Science Museum event & Quiet space. The Old Fruitmarket Friday night for “Hip replacement” night club (7pm -midnight)

Big Angie (comedy / drag show) for 2 nights 

Bernadette highlighted the operational matters - Festival set up & Road closures - Resident and Businesses notified mid June - from Fri 6am to Sun Midnight.Operational hours during the day are 12 noon to 6.00pm

There will be a walkround by the project team of Businesses to discuss deliveries / access etc on 26 June.

There were questions around Parking and access and it was suggested that the letter should be added to the MCTCC website and any issues Residents should call the helpline number on the letter.

WARD COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS

No Councillors’ were in attendance at the meeting.

Points raised in absentia:

Update on the Celtic Fans issues from 18 May & feedback from Council liaison with Celtic FC

Higher than expected Orange Marches - 100 over the summer around Glasgow , with 50 on 1 day.

Walkabout with Councillors - Actions list update . Next walkabout invite should include Councillor Braat and and focus on the Southern part of the district next time, specifically on the riverside.

Pavement parking in Candleriggs issue - get bollards similar to Miller street?

Litter on the River banks of the Clyde (North and South banks) - potential joint litter pick with Calton CC?

Can Councillors’ bring more disused properties back into Residential accommodation, as per the policy raised in the City Centre Strategy presentation.

STREET CLOSURES - Noted 

PLANNING

Scott shared the success of planning being granted to Damasquino for their expanding successful restaurant in Saltmarket.

Homeless Project Scotland (HPS)

Letter has been sent to the Chief Executive of GCC , regarding the lack of enforcement of the planning breach related to HPS.

There have also been representations made to the Scottish Government regarding GCC not operating statutory planning legislation

New applications for PBSAs

The latest such application is for Granite House, 31-33 Stockwell street.

This is a Change of Use application from Office to Student Accommodation

Scott noted this led through Old Wynd to two other buildings which had received planning permission for PBSAs, in effect creating a mini student campus. In addition there has been an old Hotel planning permission that is also now being revised for Student accommodation.

There are currently 1365 rooms in planning in the MCTCC area and this will take the number to well in excess of 1,500 in a relatively small area, in addition to major Student developments situated close to the MCTCC area e.g. College lands.

 Since MCTCC policy is to oppose further applications for PBSA he will submit a formal objection. ACTION: Peter

George Square redevelopment - 

Can we obtain details of the phasing of closures, work and reopening over the project period. Action -Scott to review.

RN suggested it would be helpful if a member of the MCTCC attended the Project meetings, to feedback on phasing and delivery on a timely manner, similar to the issues in Sauchiehall street. ACTION : 

Merchant City Park

No Progress reported.

Public Consultation on high rise Buildings - Obtain details

GPO Building - Taxi rank relocation - Scott has asked GCC about whether this can be amended and Cllr Braat is discussing with GCC staff.

LICENSING

Carry forward to next meeting.

Scott raised with GCC some Holiday Letting applications in Ingram street in Feb 2024. This was acknowledged in June 24. 

TREASURER’S REPORT

Gordon reported a bank balance of £9,750 at 25 June 24

David Hughes said he had made an application to GCC for £520 for litter pickers. This is for a maximum of £400 Grant (may be the Cash received - to check) Gordon

Discretionary Grant funding has been applied for which will followed up by the Treasurer . Action Gordon to discuss with Gerald Tonner @ GCC.

The Annual Administration Fee has also to be confirmed - Action Gordon 

£400 has been received , but this needs to be confirmed what this covers. Action Gordon 

GRANT GIVING SCHEME

Impact Arts Press release sent out (with QR codes, link to the MCTCC website).

FRIENDS OF THE RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD

Meeting to be held in City Chambers tomorrow. David Hughes said an aim was to start public tours in  2025.

SCOTTISH FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE PUBLIC CONSULTATION

WEBSITE/COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Communication strategy - Sub group agreed to propose that we should spend up to £3,000 on the Website and c £55 per month on maintenance. This will support our communication with the wider community and improve engagement. 

David Hughes proposed a full launch with flyers to local businesses, University and apartments to help drive traffic to the new website.

The spend is aimed at updating the web site (from 2019), provide more dynamic presentation, making it more usable to communicate whats on, news and history  in the MCTCC area.

There is also the possibility of further enhancement to the website to involve local businesses that support the site and engage with these businesses on future MCTCC communications.

Proposed by David Hughes and seconded by Christian S. No objections. Agreed to progress.

AOCB

 Items for the meeting with Kaukab - Councils ignoring National Planning guidelines, Continual roadworks on the M8, The council being more proactive in communicating strategy. 

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 30 July, 6.30 pm in City Chambers

by admin