Your Community Council, at the Heart of Glasgow

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

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

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

Apologies: Rachel Angus, Baillie Christy Mearns, GW

1. Minutes of last AGM held on 26 November 2024

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

2. Chairperson’s Annual Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Review of the inventory an additional resources

Included in the above submission.

5. Demit of Office Bearers

The following office bearers stepped down:

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

6. Nominations for the elections of office bearers and representatives

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

The following representatives were confirmed:

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

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

The Community Council’s adherence to this was noted.

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

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

9. Appointment of Associate Members

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

10. Date of next Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 27 October 2026.

DRAFT Meeting Minutes, 28^th October 2025

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

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

By Zoom video: EM, NM and AC.

1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

Apologies: Baillie Christy Mearns and GW.

2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING ON 30^th SEPTEMBER

Adoption proposed by Ross Naismith and seconded by Niall McColl.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

3. POLICE REPORT

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

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

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

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

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

Police Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. ELECTED MEMBERS’ REPORTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cllr Braat Questions

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

Cllr Millar Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Glasgow Get Active fund is now open:

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

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

Cllr Bolander Questions

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

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

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

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

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

5. LOCAL PLACE PLAN (LPP) & MATTERS ARISING

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

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

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

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

6. FOOTBALL FAN CELEBRATIONS

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

7. PLANNING

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Queen St and Ingram St pedestrianisation is being considered.

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

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

8. LICENSING

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

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

9. AREA PARTNERSHIP AND JAG

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

10. FRIENDS OF RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD (FoRG)

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

11. UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS

These were covered in email correspondence and elsewhere in meetings.

12. RECYCLING FACILITIES

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

13. PIGEONS / SEAGULLS

This was covered by Cllr Braat.

14. LEZ FUNDING

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

15. WEBSITE

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

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

The repair and cleaning of the MCTCC noticeboards were discussed.

16. FILMING

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

17. TREASURER’S REPORT

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

18. COMMUNITY COUNCIL VACANCY

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

 

19. AoCB

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

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

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

Annual General Meeting, 28th October 2025

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

Office bearers for the coming year were elected:

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

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

Chair’s Report to the 2025 AGM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meeting Minutes, 30 September 2025

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

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

1. Welcome And Apologies

Scott Thornton welcomed everyone.

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

2. Minutes Of Previous Meeting On 26 August

Adoption proposed by Gary Atkinson and seconded by Niall McColl.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

3. Police Report

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

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

Police Questions

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

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

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

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

4.  Presentation From East Argyle St Avenues Project

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

East Argyle St Avenues Project Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Elected Members’ Reports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cllr Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Celtic Fan Celebrations

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

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

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

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

6. Local Place Plan (Lpp) & Matters Arising

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

https://mctcc.scot/local–place–plan/

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

7. Planning

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8.  Submission To Lez Fund

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

9. Updates From Previous Meetings

There is no updates on this matter this month.

10. Licensing

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

11. Filming

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

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

12. Friends Of Ramshorn Graveyard (FORG)

There was no update this month.

13. Area Partnership

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

14. Treasurer’s Report

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

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

15. Community Council Vacancy

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

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

16.  Website

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

17. AoCB

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

DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 28^th of October 

AGM 6 – 6.30pm

Full Meeting 6.30-8.30 in City Chambers.

Meeting Minutes, 26 August 2025

 

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

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

1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES

Tam Coyle welcomed everyone.

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

2. ELECTION OF ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY COUNCILLOR

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

3. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING ON 29 APRIL

Adoption proposed by Tam Coyle, seconded by Ross Naismith.

The Secretary will notify Glasgow City Council.

4. POLICE REPORT

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

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

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

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

5. ELECTED MEMBERS’ REPORTS

There were no reports available.

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

6. LOCAL PLACE PLAN & MATTERS ARISING

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

7. PLANNING

Ross Naismith gave his report on several planning applications: –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. LICENSING

2 applications received – no Issues

9. UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS

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

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

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

10. AREA PARTNERSHIP

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

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

11. FRIENDS OF RAMSHORN GRAVEYARD (FoRG)

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

12. FILMING

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

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

13. TREASURER’S REPORT

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

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

14. AoCB

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

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

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

Walkabout with Councillor Millar was regarded as very positive.

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

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

Website – all asked to provide any content to NMc

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Doors Open start 1 Sept

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