A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 10 November 2009
ACTION NOTE
Present: Cllr Brian Murphy (Chairperson), Cllr Bren Gormley, Dave Duthie, Cllr Roddy McGuish (A&B), Emma Tayler
1. Apologies: CI John Chisholm, Stewart MacLean, Scott Dingwall, John Hutchison, Cllr Duncan MacIntyre (A&B)
2. Note of Meeting – 29 April 2009
The last meeting noted of the 29 April was approved with no amendments made.
3. General update on progress of the Joint Action Plan (JAP) working group
It is understood that the last meeting of the JAP took place in summer with another meeting due to take place in Jan 2010. There was a commitment to set up a stakeholders group but it appears this has not happened to date.
SPT/HITRANS have written to the Scottish Government calling for the formation of a working group which could outline practical suggestions to help move the project forward. When chasing for a response it appeared that there was no record of it being received. Subsequently the correspondence has been resent and it is hoped a reply would be forthcoming shortly.
It was noted that there appeared to be an apparent lack of understanding, communication and co-ordination within Transport Scotland departments which was hindering progress.
There was an indication a while ago that there would be an announcement regarding the preferred option for the Pulpit Rock scheme, this has not materialised yet. It was also noted that a meeting was due to be held many months ago with the National Park, no feedback from this meeting has been received.
4. Correspondence received from Transport Scotland – 18th Sept 09
The working group considered the letter received from Transport Scotland. The following points were noted;
· A82 safety group. Cllr Murphy has requested minutes from the meetings but has not received anything to date. Action – Cllr McGuish and ET to pursue.
· A82 TRL data bike reference – Transport Research Laboratory, in reference to South end of A82; cycle route crossing.
· Nevis Bridge to Lochybridge – some works have been done
· Deer mitigation measures – signs are up.
· Crainlarich bypass – agreed the A82 campaign working group acknowledged its support for the bypass “as the scheme shows a clear commitment to the improvement of the West Highland economy and Crainlarich community”.
· Concern was expressed that if funds were not spent by 2012 would they still be there ? or is it better to push for spend on other identified improvement works ?
It was agreed that a response to the correspondence received was to include the following points;
1) Section referenced to the RAP – correction “£16 million of improvements” – was in fact £90 million for which it said £16 million would be committed.
2) Pulpit Rock improvement - Ask when we are going to see preferred route emerging, asking to qualify the quantity and quality of road improvements as well between Pulpit Rock and Tarbet. Also a need to establish the intended start date, is it 2010/11 ?
3) Bridge improvements/replacements – establish if widening works will be undertaken at the same time.
4) Structural maintenance/resurfacing works – No mention of strip widening, ask for consideration of this and if they have a standard line.
5) STPR – need to recognise route goes NS and SN.
6) National Park - Establish if a meeting with the National Park has taken place and if so, what was the outcome of the meeting ?
7) Correspondence reference – Need to point out that most of the letter is about road safety and maintenance however, the commitment in the STPR is about improvements.
8) Traffic hold ups in Fort William – to make mention again.
Action - Cllr Murphy to draft and send a response on behalf of the campaign working group.
The group expressed concern that there was no argument that the works the correspondence made reference to were good however, the majority of these were not going to change the nature of the A82.
It was further noted that HITRANS were undertaking a scoping study in view to having research undertaken looking at the use of turbines in fixed links. Also looking at off shore renewable energy and how this can be serviced (infrastructure requirements).
5. AOCB
ET reminded the group that it had been agreed that the website would be used to keep the wider campaign partnership and interested public informed of progress. It was acknowledged that an overhaul of the information contained on the site was probably due and that any relevant responses by the working group etc should be passed to Stewart Maclean for posting on the site.
Action - Emma to liaise with Stewart on his return (noted that the website is not managed through THC).
Those present were further reminded that limited campaign funds were still being held by VAL.
SUMMARY OF ACTION POINTS FROM MEETING
|
Named Person
|
Action |
Comment |
|
Emma Tayler / Roddy McGuish |
Pursue gaining copies of the A82 safety group minutes |
|
|
Cllr Brian Murphy |
To respond to Transport Scotland corres of the 18th Sept as agreed |
|
|
Emma Tayler |
Liaise with Stewart regarding updating of Website |
|
6. NEXT MEETING – To be advised as required.
A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 29 April 2009
ACTION NOTE
Present: Cllr Brian Murphy (Chairperson), Stewart MacLean, John Hutchison, Emma Tayler
1. Apologies: CI John Chisholm, Scott Dingwall, Dave Duthie, Cllr Bren Gormley, Alasdair Ferguson, Alistair Watson, Cllr Michael Foxley
2. Note of Meeting – 25 March 2009
Notes of the meeting held on the 25 & 18 March 2009 were agreed.
3. Joint action plan
A copy of the joint action plan between Councils and Transport Scotland was circulated to those present.
This approach was well received by the group but there was a recognition that the A82 partnership needed to be kept informed of progress. (Action BM)
Additional comments noted on the content of the paper;
· There is a need to work with Stirling Council as well
· Outwith STPR – pinch points – there is a need to recognise An Aird – Lochybridge
· Loch Tulloch climbing lane – Needs to be looked at again, question as to whether works are required or if resources can be diverted. (Action BM to check)
3. Petitions Committee
Letters dated 1 April 2009 (from Transport Scotland) & 4 March 2009 (Petitions Committee) were circulated to those present.
Transport Scotland – JCH advised that Transport Scotland had responded to the Petitions Committee to the best of their ability recognising the current position with finance.
Petitions Committee – JCH recommended that the Petitions Committee be advised that the Campaign group would be declining to comment any further. The Petitions Committee to be thanked. (Action JCH).
A82 business will finally go to Petitions Committee on the 19 May 2009.
4. Where do we go from here ?
Maintenance issues
A meeting with Transport Scotland to discuss maintenance issues has been set up. AF and JCH will attend. Still to discuss if Transerve will be there.
It was acknowledged that AF will continue to pursue on-going maintenance issues as he feels appropriate.
Third generation maintenance contract – THC has written to Transport Scotland casting doubt as to whether funding for the NW is adequate.
Future meetings
Joint Action plan working group - The Council led group will meet to progress the agreed joint action plan. The A82 campaign group is to be kept informed of any significant developments. (Action BM)
The A82 campaign group (A82 partnership) – will meet periodically on a local basis, keep the website up to date and lead any direct action the group feels necessary in order to keep the campaign in the public/Ministerial eye. The local campaign group will continue to receive admin support as required. Circulation list to be informed (Action – ET)
Finance - The campaign funds remaining stand at £642.64 held by Voluntary Action Lochaber. It was agreed if the A82 campaign (local) group wish to access these funds for planned activity this would go through the administrative support currently in place.
5. AOCB
Permanent campaign sign – Stewart still to pursue
Car stickers – Stewart to uplift remaining stickers if required for any direct action event.
SUMMARY OF ACTION POINTS FROM MEETING
|
Named Person
|
Action |
Comment |
|
John Hutchison |
Conclude petitions committee business |
|
|
Ally Ferguson |
Meet TS with JCH – continue to pursue maintenance issues as appropriate |
|
|
Emma Tayler |
Circulate details of future operation/organisation of the campaign business |
|
|
Stewart MacLean |
Pursue permanent signage |
|
|
|
Pursue/co-ordinate direct action as required with colleagues |
|
|
|
Keep website up to date |
|
|
Cllr Brian Murphy |
To ensure campaign group is kept informed of any significant developments coming out of the joint action plan working group. |
|
|
|
To raise comments re: joint action plan |
|
6. NEXT MEETING – To be advised as required.
A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 15 January 2009
ACTION NOTE
Present: Cllr Brian Murphy (Chairperson), Cllr Bren Gormley, CI John Chisholm, Stewart MacLean, John Hutchison, Scott Dingwall, Alasdair Ferguson, Emma Tayler
1. Apologies: Cllr Roddy McGuish (unavoidably called away), Cllr Michael Foxley
2. Note of Meeting – 15 December 2008
Note of previous meeting 15 December was agreed with the follow correction;
STPR announcement bullet point 9 – to read: How could the important points made by a democratic body such as HITRANS be ignored by Transport Scotland ?
Update on previous actions noted as follows; –
· JCH circulated the summary content pertaining to the A82 from the STPR which outlined the key points. Summary page to be made available on the website.
· Emma has contacted Roddy/Duncan asking them to pursue meetings with Jim Mather.
· Stewart MacLean has made contact with Fergus Ewing and issued the press release.
Further actions
Bren and John Hutchison also had further useful discussions with Fergus Ewing.
Brian attended the HC Transport Committee indicating the general feeling round the table was disappointment in the STPR content in relation to the Highlands. Members had expressed that the economic case did not seem to be recognised / addressed. A meeting with the Minister is to be pursued by the committee.
Place names – John Chisholm informed the group that he is yet to finalise appropriate local place names in connection with traffic information boards, but will action ASAP.
3. Petitions committee
Following the Petitions committee meeting in December, the committee subsequently agreed to write to Transport Scotland in relation to the recent announcement of the STPR (copy letter dated 17th December was circulated to those present). JCH informed the group that Transport Scotland had asked for and have been granted an extension to the response deadline which is now the 27th January 2009.
It was noted that the questions asked by the Petitions committee fundamentally echoed those of the campaign group. The group welcomed the Petitions committee actions.
The Campaign group will have 4 weeks to comment on Transport Scotland’s reply.
Ally expressed his frustrations with the STPR content, re-iterating the dire need to address the condition of the road sooner rather than later. It was acknowledged by the group that it was hoped that the STPR would address the longer term investment required to upgrade the road and subsequently the campaign had concentrated its efforts up to this point to achieve recognition in the report. The group further acknowledged that there would need to be continued campaigning to give emphasis to the roads maintenance issues. There were 3 levels to the campaign namely;
Day to day maintenance/management
Projects (Crianlarich and Pulpit Rock)
Upgrade (STPR)
The group discussed various ideas for potential follow on action pending Transport Scotland’s reply to the Petitions committee.
4. Next Steps
1. It was agreed that a meeting with Transport Scotland re: STPR was to be pursued, to take place before the campaign groups reply deadline for the Petitions Committee (ie between 27 Jan – 23rd Feb).
2. A meeting with Jim Mather should continue to be pursued
3. A meeting with Transerve is to be pursued.
4. Community to be kept informed of progress via the website
SUMMARY OF ACTION POINTS FROM MEETING
|
Named Person |
Action |
Comment |
|
John Hutchison |
To send letter to Transport Scotland asking for a meeting with the working group |
|
|
|
To pursue a meeting with Jim Mather in March |
|
|
|
To pursue a meeting with Transerve ASAP, to involve Ally. |
|
|
Emma Tayler |
To re-circulate the web address to the full partnership |
|
|
Stewart MacLean |
To update website |
|
5. NEXT MEETING – to be confirmed.
A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 15 December 2008
ACTION NOTE
Present: Cllr Brian Murphy (Chairperson), Cllr Bren Gormley, CI John Chisholm, Stewart MacLean, John Hutchison, Dave Duthie
1. Apologies: Alasdair Ferguson, Cllr Roddy McGuish, Cllr Duncan MacIntyre, Scott Dingwall
2. Note of Meeting - 28 November 2008
Note of previous meeting 28 November agreed with the follow correction;
8. Roddy McGuish had attended the event in Edinburgh
Update on previous actions noted as follows; –
· JC is working on local names to be used for warning/information display as appropriate.
· Conference places have been booked – Emma to chase confirmations for JCH and AF.
· Petitions committee responses – NC maintain document never arrived, JC has had this resent and will now be tabled at NC meeting on the 16 Dec. NHS Highland – JCH did chase however nothing yet on website which is disappointing. Scottish chamber of Commerce – chased but no reply. Argyll & Bute Council chased.
· AF will attend Petitions Committee as an observer
3. STPR announcement
Lengthy discussion took place regarding the content of the STPR announcement. The following points of discussion were noted;
A82 appears as project 3 in the STPR, this is over a 3000 page document – relevant extract pages for A82: 62, 63 & 117
· On a positive note the report has committed a degree of funding to the A82, other projects were not recognised.
· The level of funding detailed is broad - £100 - £250 million (RAP 2006 identified £90m of works).
· Works identified in RAP are appearing in STPR but to a lower standard and over a longer timescale.
· The road needs full re-alignment not sectional development as detailed ie. Partial widening.
· Project needed to change the image/use of the road – this has not been delivered.
· Some sections are not currently designed.
· Road safety argument recognised, however economic one is not taken account of – why was the economic argument not in Transport Scotlands remit ?
· Economic benefits will not be realised.
· Question – How can strategic bodies such as HITRANS be over-riden by Transport Scotland ? Raises the issue of a need for democratic overseeing of Transport Scotland.
· The STPR by intimation of its priorities is saying that the Highlands & Islands does not have a strong economic future by not recognising the argument for the improvement of the A82 on economic grounds also.
4. Next Steps
HITRANS will be having a board meeting in January and will subsequently ask for a meeting with Transport Scotland.
3 key conferences to input into: STPR – January, March and mtg in Inverness re: Transport (May)
· Need to get MSP’s to discuss and recognise the flaws in the STPR in relation to the A82
· Need to challenge Transport Scotland as to why the economic case has not been referred to for the A82
· Need for press release
The group recognised that any further decision on adjustment to the STPR content will be political.
SUMMARY OF ACTION POINTS FROM MEETING
|
Named Person |
Action |
Comment |
|
John Hutchison |
To draft letter to Transport Scotland asking for meeting with the working group |
|
|
|
To summarise (in lay terms) the key points from the STPR in relation to A82 |
|
|
Emma Tayler |
To ask Roddy McGuish / Duncan MacIntyre to pursue a meeting with Jim Mather |
|
|
Stewart MacLean |
To pursue urgent meeting with Fergus Ewing |
|
|
|
To issue press release |
|
5. NEXT MEETING – to be confirmed.
A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 28 November 2008
ACTION NOTE
Present: Cllr Bren Gormley, Alasdair Ferguson, Stewart MacLean, Scott Dingwall, John Hutchison, Cllr Brian Murphy (Chairperson), Patricia Macdonald (notes)
1. Apologies: Cllr Michael Foxley, Cllr Roddy McGuish, CI John Chisholm. Emma Tayler
2. Note of Meeting - 16 October 2008
Matters Arising – all dealt with.
Progress with action points – all dealt with.
3. Unresolved issues arising from the meeting with Transport Scotland on 7 Aug 08.
Traffic Sensitivity - Proposed Works from Fort William to Lochybridge
John to seek clarification from Transport Scotland on the following points:
. Consideration of levels of sensitivity from Lochybridge to Corran.
. The possibility of zero work from June to September during daylight hours.
. Tackle sensitivity in different terminology situations being “dangerous”.
. Why equipment is not dismantled at weekends and left running from Friday night to Monday morning causing further unnecessary disruption. (Move equipment to let traffic flow).
. would prefer to see 2 different sensitivity levels for each section. John to action.
Local Place Name Descriptions + Programme of Improvements
. John to go back to Bob Mitchell and Police.
4. Draft response to Petitions committee.
Second draft of the petitions committee was circulated and the group made modifications.
Group to read draft response and feedback over the weekend. Concentrate on last page. Executive summary page one and the table as an appendix.
Add on no response companies as having given no response to date onto the appendix table.
Ask the minister to further brief on his previous conclusions and deliberations and research to assist transport committee their assessment of the STPR.
. It was agreed to chase Argyll & Bute, AA , Chambers of Commerce and Scottish Ambulance and NHS Highland.
. Responses are on the parliamentary web site - not all in yet. However, John would like to respond individually to each response.
. Papers going out from Zoe Tough on Monday 8th December. Our response needs to be in on Monday 1 December.
. If group could enlist AA and chamber of commerce it would be good to have.
. NHS - JCH has done all he can to get their input.
. Chairman of HITRANS – John to pursue for comments.
. Ambulance Service to be sought also.
NB. Petitions committee have no power to pursue groups.
. Alasdair to approach Duncan Cameron from Camanachd.
Attendance at the Petitions Committee at 2pm on Tuesday 16 December at Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh? There can be no input at this stage although we can apply for entry to sit in. Alasdair to attend. JCH to pass details to Alasdair.
5. STPR Consultation, response from Transport Scotland
JCH received a letter from Transport Scotland, dated 19 November 2008, clarifying the role of the reference groups. No response necessary to letter.
. John to find out who is on the other four groups and what the organisations are. Enterprise, Business & Freight, …CBI, Freight Haulage,
6. Finance
Group agreed the website bill from REDCAT for annual membership of £119.79
Further contribution received from Cllr Murphy to campaign fund (£1000).
7. STPR Conference.
It was agreed that Stewart Maclean, Alasdair Ferguson & John Hutchison would need places. Cllr Brian Murphy will go under HC.
1400 hrs = 2 x Workshop E + 1 for F (JohnH)
1505 hrs = 3 x Workshop E
There was then some discussion on possible responses to the STPR announcement.
8. AOCB
. Roddy McGuish would like to send his apologies for not being present at Edinburgh. Argyll and Bute are very thankful for all help given to organisation.
SUMMARY ACTION POINTS FROM MEETING
|
Named Person |
Action |
Comment |
|
John Hutchison |
John to seek clarification from Transport Scotland on the following points |
Section 3. |
|
|
John to go back to Bob Mitchell and Police on Local Place Name Descriptions and programme of improvements. |
Section 3. |
|
|
Our response concerning Petitions Committee needs to be in by Monday 1 December. |
|
|
|
To pass details of petitions committee mtg to Alasdair |
|
|
Alasdair Ferguson |
To approach Duncan Cameron from Camanachd Association. |
|
|
Emma Tayler |
To book STPR conference places |
|
|
John Hutchison |
STPR reference groups - John to find out who is on the other four groups and what the organisations are. Enterprise, Business & Freight, CBI, Freight Haulage. |
|
9. NEXT MEETING – to be confirmed as soon as possible after the SDPR announced.
A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 16th October 2008
ACTION NOTE
PRESENT: Cllr Brian Murphy, Stewart Maclean, John Hutchison, Cllr Roddy McCuish, Emma Tayler
1. APOLOGIES: Alasdair Ferguson, Cllr Michael Foxley, Cllr Bren Gormley, Scott Dingwall, (Absent) Chief Inspector John Chisholm,
2. Note of meeting 29 September 2008
Previous note of the 29 September agreed,
Update from previous actions – noted as follows:
· Co-ordination contract with John Hutchison now issued and in place.
· Funds have been transferred to VAL
· E-mail re; communication has gone out to all members
· STPR conference details have been circulated
· Roddy is actively pursuing contact with Jim Mather and Jamie Grigor
It was further noted that the action notes from working group meetings have now been loaded onto the website.
Stewart is also actively pursuing Mary Scanlon and Annabel Goldie for support.
3. Increasing press coverage
· David Ross at the Herald had given an ‘expert’ lead which did not prove fruitful.
· Still working on celebrity involvement but proving difficult to make contact. No word back from Ali Ferguson as yet to his progress on this.
· Roddy intimated that there was the potential to display banners at the under 17’s Shinty International.
· Questions raised if Inverlochy castle could help ?
· Questions raised if Oban sea planes could help ?
· Cllr Foxley’s suggestion for publicity was noted however due to budget restraints this could not be taken further.
The group considered the merits of lobbying MSP’s at Holyrood. The group agreed that this was an appropriate course of action. Further details to be worked up by the group and circulated as appropriate. Emma to look into cost of placards etc.
It was noted that Graeme Livingstone (ECS) had approached Emma regarding Young People’s involvement / support for the campaign. He intimated that the young people were enthusiastic and were behind the campaign, wanting to show their support. Some plans were possibly afoot regarding a trip to the children’s commissioner / parliament however there had been no further word on this. It was agreed that this could be tied in nicely with the planned lobbying. Members welcomed youth support.
Contact to be made urgently with Graeme regarding lobbying event / youth members involvement possibly in November.
4. AOCB
Correspondence received: STPR team – Mike Bloom (dated 13th October 2008)
Correspondence was previously circulated to the working group. The timings had been noted for Parliamentary announcement of the STPR (November). Concern was raised that their appeared to be some disparity between how the STPR was been progressed and Transport Scotlands policy on consultation. It was noted that it was intimated that there was not going to be opportunity to comment on the STPR content, only on the Strategic Environmental Assessment. It was agreed to write to Transport Scotland regarding the above.
Petitions committee
John to check if the responses to the petitions committee are on the website. Link to be passed to Stewart. A request was made for HIE to be included in those consulted, JCH to check this had been done.
Previous meeting with Bob Mitchell (Transport Scotland) 7th August 2008
John to chase up response from Bob particularly in regards to road sensitivity issue.
SUMMARY ACTION POINTS FROM MEETING
|
Named Person |
Action |
Comment |
|
Emma Tayler |
To contact Graeme Livingstone re: youth involvement in Holyrood lobbying |
|
|
|
To get quotes for promotional material, forward to chair. |
|
|
|
Contact Ali re; any progress with celebrity contacts. |
|
|
John Hutchison |
Reply to Transport Scotland (Mike Bloom) corres of the 13th October 2008. |
|
|
|
To check responses re: petitions committee requests, e-mail link to Stewart |
|
|
|
To chase response from Bob Mitchell following on from 7th August meeting. |
|
|
ALL |
To further liaise regarding firming up of arrangements for Lobbying event in November. |
|
5. Date of Next Meeting(s)
To be advised
A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 29th September 2008
ACTION NOTE
PRESENT: Cllr Brian Murphy, Stewart Maclean, Alasdair Ferguson, Scott Dingwall, Cllr Roddy McCuish, Emma Tayler
1. APOLOGIES: Cllr Michael Foxley, Cllr Bren Gormley, John Hutchison, Chief Inspector John Chisholm
2. Note of meeting 15 August 2008
Previous note of the 15 August agreed,
Update from previous actions – noted as follows:
· DVD has now been distributed to all MSP’s
· Ministerial meeting has now taken place
3. Work plan
Media coverage - The group agreed that it was important to keep the momentum of good media coverage. In depth discussion took place regarding a publicity stunt and the possible format this should take. It was agreed to focus the next working group meeting on this issue with a view to gaining additional media coverage during October / beg November.
Members agreed in the interim to seek contact with a number of celebrities / high profile people with the aim of seeking endorsement & possible PR assistance for the campaign. Stewart Maclean to continue Partnership liaison re: PR co-ordination.
DVD follow up - Roddy to also contact Jim Mather and Jamie Grigor re feedback on the DVD.
Main Partnership & working group meetings – it was agreed that it was more time and cost effective to keep the main partnership informed through the website and e-mail rather than convene meetings. It was noted that the majority chose to keep abreast with developments through this medium rather than attend meetings anyway.
Emma to e-mail all members re: future communications
It was agreed that the working group needed to continue meetings as required.
Petition e data base – it was agreed that the development of the database into a useable format was not a priority of the working group.
Co-ordination - The group acknowledged the need for continued co-ordination support and agreed £2000 was required for the letting of a new contract to aid this.
Resources – HIE 2nd and final claim is now in. Total amount that will be available to the campaign once monies cleared = £2854.00
It was acknowledged that no approaches had yet been made to businesses and Community councils for financial support. It was agreed that this needed to happen if additional funding was required. Cllr Murphy pledged additional discretionary budget monies should the need arise (£1000).
4. Co-ordination contract
After considerable discussion it was agreed the following tasks would form the basis of a new co-ordination contract:
1) Dealing with any issues arising from the previous meeting held with TS
2) Serving of the working group
3) Supporting any publicity stunt the campaign group develops
4) Commenting on the responses to the petitions committee request for info etc.
5) Reappearing at the petitions committee / transport committee as appropriate
6) Receiving the draft STPR and considering how to react thereto;
7) Commenting on the STPR report
It was acknowledged that this work was likely to be complete within a 3 month period but this may be affected by the publishing date of the STPR.
Any other tasks that arise will be dealt with by working group members as appropriate.
It was agreed to offer the contract to John Hutchison, previous co-ordinator, on the basis of his knowledge and quality of work provided to date. Contract to be reviewed in late December /early January 2009 by the working group.
Emma to liaise with JCH.
It was noted that Voluntary Action Lochaber have agreed to let the contract on the Partnerships behalf, this simplifies the process for the campaign group. The working group agreed to this proposal which was welcomed by all. It was further noted that the campaign funds currently held with the Association of Lochaber community councils would have to be transferred to VAL in order for them to administer the financial affairs of the campaign group. This was agreed.
A note of thanks was recorded to the ALCC for their support in holding campaign funds to date.
Emma to liaise with VAL & the ALCC’s re: monies and letting of contract.
5. Ministerial meeting de-brief
Members agreed that the Ministerial meeting had gone well with all the main points put across. It was noted that the John Chisholm’s contribution was of particular note, putting across the case excellently.
At the meeting Stewart Stevenson had implied that the STPR report would be out shortly however recent inferences are pointing to towards the end of this year. It was noted that Stewart had been invited to attend a conference to discuss the STPR in January – re-affirming that the report would be published by then.
Stewart to circulate the details of the conference.
It was noted there had been some recent press coverage regarding the Strategic environmental assessment (SEA).
Scott to look into and circulate info to the working group.
6. Update from working group members on campaign progress since the last mtg
Covered in previous discussion
SUMMARY ACTION POINTS FROM MEETING
|
Named Person |
Action |
Comment |
|
Emma Tayler |
To e-mail all partnership members re: future communications via e-mail / through A82 website |
|
|
|
To liaise with JCH regarding new co-ordination contract |
|
|
|
To liaise with VAL and ALCC re transfer of campaign funds and letting of contract |
|
|
Stewart Maclean |
Stewart Maclean to continue Partnership liaison re: PR co-ordination. |
|
|
|
To circulate details of STPR conference to working group |
|
|
Roddy McCuish |
To contact Jim Mather and Jamie Grigor re feedback on the DVD. |
|
|
ALL |
To seek contact with identified celebrities / high profile people with the aim of seeking endorsement & possible PR assistance for the campaign. |
|
|
Scott Dingwall |
To look into recent SEA publicity and circulate info to the working group. |
|
7. Date of Next Meeting(s)
Thursday 16th October 2008, 2.30pm in Lochaber House, Fort William
Note: this meeting is to focus on increasing press coverage.
A82 PARTNERSHIP MEETING – 15th August 2008
ACTION NOTE
PRESENT
|
Cllr Brian Murphy, Chairman |
Highland Council |
|
Alasdair Ferguson |
Ferguson Transport & Chamber of Commerce |
|
Cllr Michael Foxley |
Highland Council |
|
Tricia Jordon |
Association of Lochaber Community Councils |
|
Cllr Bren Gormley |
Highland Council |
|
Scott Dingwall |
HIE Lochaber |
|
John Hutchison |
Campaign co-ordinator |
|
Emma Tayler |
Highland Council |
|
Stewart MacLean |
A82 Partnership |
|
CI John Chisholm |
Northern Constabulary |
- APOLOGIES – Richard Rumney, Anne-Marie Cameron, Cllr Donald Cameron, Peter Hamling, Robert Hawkes, James Weir, Drew Purdon, John Smith (Police), Donald Stewart
- Note of previous meeting 13 June 2008
Previous notes agreed. All action points from the previous meeting of the 13th June 08 have been completed.
Following discussion regarding meeting attendance levels, members agreed that the circulation list for the partnership should automatically include all Ward 12 & 22 community councils. (Action - ET). It was further noted that there was a new Chair for the Association of Lochaber Community councils, new contact details to be provided ( Action -TJ)
- Finance
An updated financial report was circulated to those present (V8 13.8.08). The following was noted;
- Financial contributions from Highland Council and Argyll & Bute have now been received.
- Current A/C balance stands at £2490.25, expected expenditure due £872.50, Expected income due £1236.25 ; predicted balance with no further commitment = £2854.00
- Group agreed they would need to have sufficient funds to cover any action required in response to the STPR draft and ensure continued co-ordination of the campaign.
- The group agreed the need to seek financial contributions to the campaign from community councils (Action – AF/ET)
- The group agreed the need to pursue financial contributions from the business sector – (Action AF)
- General update from working group
The following activity and comment was noted:
- Representatives of the working group presented to the Petitions committee on the 24th June. The Petitions committee agreed to seek further comment/input from a range of agencies.
- The DVD is now complete and additional copies have been run off for further distribution.
- A meeting with the Transport Minister has been confirmed for the 1st September 2008.
- The working group have had some mixed messages regarding the expected publication date of the draft STPR report and whether the draft will go out for consultation. Clarity will be sort at the meeting with the Minister (Stewart Stevenson) on the 1st September.
- There will be a need for further public reaction once the draft STPR is published.
- The group acknowledged that the campaign had lost some momentum over the summer and now needs to ‘up its game’.
- Petitions committee
The Petitions presentation was well received. Additional supporters also attended which included representation from a community council. The proceedings are fully reported on the parliamentary website
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/s3/committees/petitions/or-08/pu08-1201.htm
The committee decided to write to a number of parties with a series of questions , responses are to be back by the end of October. The A82 partnership will be asked to comment on responses and go back to the petitions committee in December 2008.
A database of names from the e-petition signatories has been released but is not currently in any useable format.
It was noted that the Northern Constabulary annual report had good mention of the campaign.
- Co-ordination of Road works & public utility works
A meeting went ahead with Bob Mitchell of Transport Scotland on the 7th August. Discussion took place on the current status of the road and the need to have it deemed as ‘traffic sensitive’. Further points of discussion covered included; role of transport Scotland in providing prompt and up to date information, schedule of local works, issues surrounding timing /scheduling of works – local co-ordination group.
Schedule of local works (Lochaber) included:
Patching, Light improvements, Dealing with subsidence at Argos junction, Inverlochy junction, Drainage at Ben Nevis Hotel, Traffic improvement measures at Caol junction., Lochy Bridge roundabout
Bob had confirmed at the meeting that widening of the road at Lochy Bridge roundabout has been abandoned. Members agreed to pick this issue up at a Wards business meeting as it was felt this needed to be challenged. (Action – BM/MF/BG)
- Forthcoming meeting with Transport Minister – 1st Sept 2008
The final programme for the meeting on the 1st September was to be discussed at the A82 working group meeting to follow.
SUMMARY ACTION POINTS FROM MEETING
|
Named Person |
Action |
Comment |
|
Tricia Jordon |
To forward contact details of new Chair (Association of Lochaber Community councils) |
|
|
Emma Tayler |
To circulate invites & meeting notes to all Lochaber Community councils. |
|
|
Ally Ferguson |
To pursue financial contributions to campaign from business sector as appropriate |
|
|
|
In liaison with Emma seek financial contributions from community councils when appropriate |
|
|
Councillors (Lochaber) |
To take issue of road widening (filter lane) re: Lochy bridge round about to a business meeting |
|
- Date of next meeting - To be advised by the working group in due course
A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 13 June 2008
ACTION NOTE
PRESENT: Cllr Brian Murphy, Alasdair Ferguson, John Chisholm, Stewart MacLean, John Hutchison, Patricia MacDonald (minutes)
1. APOLOGIES: Cllr Bren Gormley, Scott Dingwall, Emma Tayler
2. Update from previous actions agreed – noted as follows:
|
|
Action |
Comment |
|
Brian Murphy |
Duncan MacIntyre has been emailed regarding Cllr MacKay’s offer of regular attendance at meetings. |
In hand |
|
John Hutchison (JCH) |
Amend letter & Re-circulate Letter (to Councillors) to working group by email.
Emailed contacts in Uist and Barra. Advise of number of leaflets and stickers required.
Met with John Chisholm re: stats on accidents. John furnished JCH with figures. (attached) |
In hand
In hand
Statistics received |
|
Emma Tayler |
Re-Drafting of the map
Ensure Argyll & Bute financial contribution is released. (Highland Council monies are almost used up) |
Done (attached)
Still awaiting. |
|
Ally Ferguson |
Arrange for Distribution of 1000 to Tyndrum filling station |
Done |
|
Neil MacKay |
Speak to Donnie Monroe re DVD voice over |
Neil MacKay wasn’t present, however a discussion regarding the DVD voice-over script took place. * |
|
|
To pursue relocation of banners
|
No update available |
|
Stewart MacLean |
Point of contact for incident/road work reporting & subsequent publicising. |
See Matters Arising |
|
Michael Foxley |
To discuss and explore further ideas for a publicity stunt with working group members |
See finance |
|
DVD Working group |
To continue liaison regarding production – Neil to be included in discussion/circulation |
On-going |
3. Finance
Argyll and Bute funds are as yet not forthcoming.
Emma to keep pursuing
Michael Foxley had sent Brian an email about a company who construct inflatable buses and lorries, cars, etc, based in Leicestershire.
Due to costs of: £1.8K-2K for a car, £4K-4.5K for a bus it was agreed that monies could be spent more valuably.
4. General Update
· Visit of Stewart Stevenson, Transport, etc, Minister
JCH noted that we were all disappointed when we didn’t get the ministers visit. Although we will be continuing to press for a visit before the end of June and the Petitions Committee.
· Parliamentary Questions/Answers
Stewart Stevenson was noted to have given a verbal note during Parliamentary Question/Answers that he had met with the A82 working group, which he hasn’t to date.
After some discussion on how to address this and due to timescales, it was agreed that JCH contact Alec Salmon’s office by telephone. This approach would give the opportunity at the Petitions Committee to be able to say that we’ve had 2 dates cancelled and disappointed to hear Stewart Stevenson declare he had met with A82 Working Group.
· Map / Circular for Councillors
Attached for circulation with minutes.
· Statistics (attached)
Info is gradually coming in from different forces. The attached table of figures is correct, however, figures differ in certain forces as two deaths involved in one accident is sometimes counted as two fatalities in some forces and others are noted as per vehicle not per person.
Note 2 as in lengths should be taken to the top of the subject.
This should be the basis of our next push.
Incidents have shown nothing conclusive that we can use in our favour. However, unfortunately, accidents do work in our favour.
· Other
Too late to utilise publicity during the Scottish Open in July.
¨ Although a trailer with a banner placed at the head of Loch Lomond could still be done. Ally Ferguson to explore.
¨ Something could be done over Dunbarton Rock – the likes of abseiling / or a large banner draped across it. JCH to pursue possibility.
¨ Failing this a trailer could be parked at close proximity with a banner on it. Ally Ferguson to organise.
¨ Stewart MacLean thought it might be more beneficial to have a build up rather than one big event which people could miss.
¨ Banners – Banner at 3 mile water is blocked by overgrowing vegetation, can it be moved to the other side of the road.
Corran ferry can it be elevated. Or moved to the forestry site?
Ben Nevis one is very good.
Brian still has Spean one which can be used for Dumbarton.
Pond Take Away – roadside one again. OK if you have it right angles to the road. Move Russ’s one to there?
¨ Car stickers are on numerous cars now. A hill walker recently called for a sticker as their family group commented on coming through the A82 is more dangerous than anything they do in the mountains.
¨ JCH to email Michael to encourage John Farquhar Munro to support the campaign.
¨ Highland Council has consented to use of the map on their website
5. DVD – Progress
Oban Council response to be given then the Script and Runrig music will be passed to Donnie Munro in Skye then onto a recording studio.
The Script has only been seen in outline so far.
Group to request a copy of finalised script before using on DVD.
Ally to contact John Farquhar Munro with a copy of the old DVD, to include part of the old and the new in the DVD.
6. Petitions Committee
Draft Submission – has been submitted to the petitions committee.
Discussion took place as to the content of the presentation and number of changes were agreed.
Statistics the information is gradually coming in from different forces. The stats table is right, however, figures are different in that if 2 people die in one accident it will be counted as 2 fatalities in one force; however figures may be noted per vehicle in other forces.
7. Co-ordination of Road Works and Public Utility Works.
Stewart MacLean covered the discussion on the above national issue. Mark Smith, Area Manager, Transerve will be approached to see if he could help alleviate this problem. Currently they operate using the “Streetworks register” which they must participate in.
It is the Road Space Manager’s job to make sure that two works are not too close together at any one time.
Group to arrange for a list of contact numbers to be publicly displayed for ease of contact for both the public and Transerve, etc.
8. AOCB
Review of Scottish police forces
JCH to draft a diplomatic letter to the Scottish Police Service Authority (SPSA) stressing the partnerships anxiousness about centralisation.
The whole Review is to find out ways to centralise policing.
Currently accident investigation teams are based in Inverness / Dunbarton.
Central Glasgow has their own team, where Dunbarton does not stand in to help. If help was required from Dunbarton then the order would have to come through Chief Constables first and an agreement made.
Group to invite John Smith down from Police HQ to discuss whether or not this would be beneficial.
Trunk road contracts – JCH gave a note.
Accident Stats
FOI requests for Figures on Fatal Accidents to Strathclyde, when Weather Gates are shut, etc. Perhaps a section on potential for fatalities should be included.
JCH to ask Transerv if they have road closure stats & ask them to put in place a way of recording road closures for the future.
Bridges
10 bridges to be replaced/improved in the next while.
Publicity
Public complaints are to be encouraged.
Press coverage is still positive, although there is still no coverage since the launch with the Herald.
9. Date Of Next Meeting(s)
To be advised
A82 WORKING GROUP MEETING – 9th May 2008
ACTION NOTE
PRESENT: Chairman Cllr Brian Murphy, Scott Dingwall, Alasdair Ferguson, Cllr Michael Foxley, John Hutchison, Stewart MacLean, Cllr Bren Gormley, Cllr Neil MacKay, Emma Tayler
1. APOLOGIES: Chief Inspector John Chisholm, Cllr Duncan MacIntyre, Cllr Roddy McGuish, Robert Hawkes
2. Update on previous actions agreed - noted as follows:
|
|
Action |
Comment |
|
Brian Murphy |
To write to Catherine Stihler re: getting route designated as a ‘Priority project’ |
In hand |
|
|
To ensure HC monies are released |
In hand |
|
Bren Gormley |
Speak to member colleagues in Inverness prior to letters (to councillors) going out |
In hand |
|
John Hutchison |
To make amendments as agreed and finalise letter to Councillors |
In hand |
|
|
Write to Dave Duthie regarding inclusion of RAP for Fort William – Inverness in STPR. |
In hand |
|
|
Write to Stewart Stevenson’s office acknowledging postponement of meeting and seeking new date. |
In hand |
|
|
Pursue getting e-mail addresses from petition |
received |
|
|
Pursue getting accident/incident figures |
On-going |
|
|
Prepare agenda items for next meeting(s) |
done |
|
|
To update action plan |
done |
|
|
Continue to pursue S. Uist & Barra contacts/support |
Contact info received |
|
Emma Tayler |
To pursue map drawing |
In hand |
|
|
To let corporate managers know that letter is going out to Councillors |
done |
|
|
Speak to Dot Ferguson re: ward forum agenda items |
done |
|
Ally Ferguson |
Arrange for distribution of 1000 to Tyndrum filling station |
Ally to collect |
|
|
Pursue voice over for DVD & liaise with Stewart |
On-going |
|
Elaine Robertson (A&B) |
To pursue Neil regarding approval for use of Runrig music in DVD (to inform Emma of outcome) URGENT |
Outcome reported to partnership 9.5.08 |
|
|
To speak to colleagues regarding continuity of A&B representation at working group meetings, including officials representation. (to inform Emma) |
To be done |
|
|
Ensure A&B financial contribution is released |
In hand |
|
|
Arrange relocation of the 2 removed banners |
In hand |
|
Stewart MacLean |
Speak to Ben Nevis distillery regarding erection of banner |
done |
|
|
Respond to e-mail received regarding Cranlarich by-pass |
done |
|
|
Liaise with Ally regarding DVD |
Working on |
|
John Chisholm |
Liaise with John Hutchison regarding required accident / incident figures |
On-going |
3. Matters from partnership meeting to be actioned
Letter to Councillors
JH circulated a second draft. Further amendments were noted. JH to re-circulate to the working group by e-mail for approval. Letter will go out to all Councillors in Highland and Argyll & Bute.
Map (to go with letter)
Some work has been done by TECS, a draft was shown to the group. After some discussion it was agreed to get further work done on the map to take in a number of amendments and improve graphics.
DVD
Voice over – Donny Monroe to be asked by Cllr Neil MacKay. Cllr Mackay agreed to join the DVD ‘working sub-group’.
Banners
It had been previously noted that 2 banners (Argyll & Bute Colleagues had arranged erection for), had been removed. One has been located and will be re-erected – possible suggestion Luss bridge - the other is still to be found.
Bridges
Following on from discussion at the main partnership Cllr Foxley reiterated the need to target one of the bridges for major improvements not just straight replacement. A publicity feature is required.
Continuity at meetings
At a previous working group meeting discussion had taken place regarding continuity of attendance at meetings for Argyll & Bute colleagues. It had been agreed that it would be beneficial to have the same representative at the meetings, possibly an official supporting members on rotation or the same member with officials support. Cllr Neil MacKay indicated to those present that he was happy to be attend meetings on a regular basis but it would be useful to have this communicated to his colleagues.
Reporting/communicating of incidences and road works
JH to continue working with John Chisholm on statistics including road closure information. Group agreed that a campaign was needed to highlight the reporting mechanism(s) for road incidents, delays due to road works etc. It was noted that information on the Traffic Scotland website was often inaccurate with a number of incidents / road works not reported on-line. JH and Stewart agreed to look into point(s) of contact for the public and the publicising of the information. Item to be followed up at the next business meeting.
4. AOCB
Campaign
Cllr Brian Murphy reiterated that Lochaber has been the driving force behind the campaign and needs to retain this leadership and control with support from other areas. It was acknowledged that this was a long term campaign which will continue for many years. Members were reminded that the working group will need to consider the issue of admin and co-ordination support beyond the draft publication of the STPR.
Publicity
Cllr Michael Foxley highlighted the need for a ‘publicity stunt’ to keep media interest. This was met with agreement and support from the working group. Various ideas were voiced – to be explored further by members of the working group.
SUMMARY OF ACTION POINTS FROM THE MEETING
|
|
Action |
Comment |
|
Brian Murphy |
To e-mail Duncan MacIntyre regarding Cllr MacKay’s offer of regular attendance at meetings. |
|
|
John Hutchison |
Amend & re-circulate letter (to councillors) to working group by e-mail |
|
|
|
To approach contacts in Uist and Barra |
|
|
|
To meet with John Chisholm re statistical information |
|
|
Emma Tayler |
Make amendments and organise the re-drafting of the map |
|
|
|
Continue to pursue the release of donation payments |
|
|
Ally Ferguson |
Arrange for distribution of 1000 to Tyndrum filling station |
to arrange collection |
|
Neil MacKay |
Speak to Donnie Monroe re DVD voice over |
|
|
|
To pursue relocation of banners |
|
|
Stewart MacLean |
To liaise with John Hutchison regarding point of contact for incident / road work reporting & subsequent publicising |
|
|
Michael Foxley |
To discuss and explore further ideas for a publicity stunt with working group members |
|
|
|
To liaise with Emma regarding further leaflet distribution |
|
|
DVD working group |
To continue liaison regarding production – Neil to be included in discussion/circulation. |
|
5. Date of next meeting
Friday June 13th 2008, 2pm in the North Committee room, Lochaber House, Fort William.
