Killearnan Community Council

UPDATES.

Draft Minutes of Killearnan CC Meeting Thursday 27th February 2025 . 7.00pm to 8.30pm inTore Hall

May be amended later

Present; K Mackenzie, A Brown, A Mackay, A.C. Mackay, F Hastie; L.Sutherland;

Cllrs M Paterson; S. Kennedy (Ward 8)

Apologies: A Cameron; A Grigor. Cllrs L Johnston, G. Mackenzie, A Maclean

Minutes of the Last Meeting. Adopted. K Mackenzie;A Mackay;

Matters Arising

a) Still to be arranged: proposed meeting between members of the CC, Councillors, MSP, MP, Highland Council Road Officials and BEAR. It was suggested that K Forbes MSP be approached to set up a meeting in reference to her A9 Survey. Participants to park at Tore Hall and walk down to the Filling Station & Pedestrian crossing to witness the safety hazards for themselves.

Secretary will email Forbes’ office. It is noted that Jamie Stone, MP, has made no acknowledgement of our emails to him. This is an unwelcome change from the co-operation and courtesy we received from Charles Kennedyand Ian Blackford his predecessors.

b) VE. Financial contraints are a factor in arranging a commemorative event. To be discussed at next meeting.

1. Finance Concerns.

The situation with regard to the CC’s finances has reached crisis point -it has become almost impossible to carry out the work expected of a CC without drawing on personal financial input from the volunteer community councillors.

The present annual grant is just over £439. In the financial year 2009-2010 the annual grant was £1053. According to the Bank of England’s Inflation calculator the sum of £1053 in 2010 would now be worth about £1800. Until recently the Highland Council paid the compulsory insurance bill for all CCs. This year, Zurich Insurance will cost Killearnan £122. Additionally, until recently the venue for meetings was without charge in Tore Primary School. Now the CC must pay hiral costs for the use of Tore Hall. In 2010, the Secretarial Honorarium was £430 and essential travel expenses could be paid to members.

Over the last two years the work of CCs has increased owing to involvement in the design of Place Plans. This CC has been expected to liaise with the committees of two Place Plans – Black Isle and Dingwall & Seaforth and attend meetings both virtual and actual.We have also hosted two major Place Plan events on behalf of the designers. No travel expenses were paid to members for attendance at PP and other meetings as the CC could not afford to recompense members. Ms Hastie asked councillors about claim forms for travel expenses and the councillors said they would find out about current procedures.

In 2010, the accountant’s fee was £40. Following the retirement of the then accountant, the secretary asked Leggatts of Dingwall to audit the accounts. To date, the firm has not charged for their work, as a courtesy to Mackay, Linnie Farm and the community.

The use of and reliance on IT means of communication has increased exponentially in the last 14 years (emails; the distribution of minutes; surveys; mailchimp and similar methods of contacting residents; Teams and Zoom meetings; Websites.) Individual volunteer members have to make more and more use of their personal broadband accounts and electric supply.

Cllrs Paterson and Kennedy confirmed they would raise all these issues with the relevant Highland Council Department.

A Ross-shire Journal article Jan 25th, highlighting the difficulties face by CCs in Ross-shire and their importance to the comunity, was circulated to members.

2. Bank of Scotland Charges. The CC was informed that an additional payment of £51would be taken from out Treasurers Account. Advised by BOS to find another bank, the secretary sought advice from the Head Office of the Royal Bank of Scotland. Their Community Business Accounts make no charges, except for international transactions. It is suggested that Chair, Treasurer and Secretary make the change on March 4^th.

3. Dingwall & Seaforth Stakeholders Teams Meeting.

As agreed at the last Teams meeting no further stakeholder meetings would take as the plan had been adopted.

4. BICC Meeting in Cromarty re BIPPL Governance. Date to be informed.

5. Road Safety Issues. Incidents continue to occur in the Tore Roundabout Area. It was suggested that CC submit a freedom of information request to the Police for numbers. However, it was pointed out that the Police only record accidents where injuries are involved. Cllr Kennedy expressed his general dissatisfaction with policing in the area, including reporting.

The proposal to close the B9161 access to the Munlochy Junction and divert traffic via the A832 to Tore roundabout was again criticised on account of the additional risks to pedestrians, cyclists and motorists along the bottleneck near the Filling Station. Traffic would increase not only from Munlochy but also from Avoch, Fortrose, Rosemarkie and Cromarty

6. AOCB

a) Community Council Liaison Group (Dingwall Medical Practice)

A useful forum which has increased its membership. Constructive in supporting the upgrading of the Ross Memorial Hospital. Killearnan CC and others have raised the issue of a lack of public transport to vaccination centres and other medical appointments. Cllr Paterson commented that now Highland Council was a owner of a bus company it might be possible to improve public transport in rural areas.

b) Cllr L Johnston suggests that Care in the Community be an agenda item for the next meeting.

c) Tore Hall. Fund-raising. A Mackay enquired about Tesco’s Blue Coin scheme. Cllr Kennedy will look into it.

d) Emergency Hub. Still no confirmation from HC about official status.

e) Hearing the sound of Scottish Dance music issuing from the main hall, Cllr Paterson commented how good it was to see the ‘well-known’ Tore Hall in action again.

Minutes of Killearnan CC Meeting Thursday 30^th January 2025

7.00pm to 8.30pm

Tore Hall

Present; K Mackenzie, A Mackay, A.C. Mackay, A. Cameron; A Grigor; L.Sutherland;

Cllr A Maclean (Ward 8)

Apologies: F Hastie (Family emergency)

Secretary apologises to A Brown for sending notice of meeting to the wrong email address.

Minutes of the Last Meeting. Adopted. K Mackenzie;A Mackay;

Matters Arising

Items included in agenda.

Still to be arranged: proposed meeting between members of the CC, Councillors, MSP, MP, Highland Council Road Officials and BEAR. Press to be invited.

1. Road Safety/Emergency Issues.

a) Tore Roundabout, Pedestrian Crossing; A832 access from Filling Station Increasingly hazardous. The proposal to close the B9161/A9 Junction (because of the dangers on the B road) and re-route traffic from Munlochy, Avoch, Fortrose, Rosemarkie, Cromarty via the A832 to Tore Roundabout will significantly increase hazards, especially at the bottleneck approaching the roundabout.

Road is very narrow;
A row of posts (electric and lighting) are situated on both verges of the road;
There is no footpath by which pedestrians can access the filling station shop; postbox; bus-stops.
The Filling Station has been granted permission for EV charging points
The stretch of road is part of the official cycle track.

2. Bank of Scotland New Charges

Letter from BOS was evasive; non-conclusive regarding CC’s request for exemption. To be followed up.

3. Tore Hall Update

Recent new hires. Discussion continuing about: raising charges; buying free-standing infra-red heaters to supplement heat in the hall for groups such a yoga.

Two public events being planned in conjunction with Primary School: Summer Fayre and Harvest Celebration.

Proposal that Summer event should include a presentation of the Dingwall and Seaforth Place Plan.

Volunteers needed to help with upkeep.

Location of access to septic tank still not found, despite enquiries. Cllr Maclean has been trying to get information.

4. Killearnan Church Committee Meeting with Heritage Scotland.

Attended by A Mackay and A.C Mackay. Church of Scotland determined to sell properties at the end of the year, despite representation from parish committee. Heritage Scotland representative offered ideas about community uses of church buildings and sources of funding. Maintenance costs were always a main consideration. She informed that the COS were able to sell church buildings as they were not constructed on consecrated land.

A.C Mackay raised the issue with committee members as the present building stands on an ancient site which would have been consecrated – bishops are buried in the church.

5. Dingwall & Seaforth PP

K Mackenzie was unable to link in. Next TEAMS meeting on evening of February 13^th following discussion at Ward 8 Committee meeting.

6. Community Council LiaisonTEAMS.

1. Administration of vaccines removed from Practices. Lack of invitation letters for vaccines. Poor access to Inverness drop-in centre. Not only covid and flu vaccines affected but also those against childhood diseases.

2. Ross Memorial upgrade continuing.

Minor surgery may be reintroduced and also in Practices.

Lack of transport in rural areas for appointments.

Community Group now 62 organisations strong with ‘link officer’ (student)

Secretary will resend poster.

Bruce Morrison questioned whether time spent in 4 yearly meetings was justified by direct benefit to residents.

Divided opinions. Useful forum for airing concerns.

Cllr Maclean emphasised the vital part played by the Liaison Group in persuading NHS Highland to carry out the upgrade of the Ross Memorial Hospital.

AOCB

1. Email from Bruce Morrison FCC with information about help with transport.Rossshire “Community Transport - that operates in your area and will do medical appointments with the one exception of visits to Raigmore.

The Drivers Scheme - two points here. We have under-utilised volunteer drivers in our area who may well be willing to hop over the hill to your residents to help. That may also be true of Avoch and Munlochy residents. Tony Leggatt of The Drivers Scheme I'm sure would be delighted to hear from you about the level of demand that you know about and either see if existing volunteers would step up or a joint effort between both of you to find some volunteers.”

2. Condition of Bogroy Farm Road. Potholes are a danger to Coastguard and Police vehicles used by residents who live along the road. Road was adopted by the HC. Cllr Maclean to raise matter with Roads Dept.

3 VE Day CC to discuss possibility of organising an event.

Meeting closed at 8.30pm. Next meeting.February27^th 2025

Draft Minutes of Killearnan CC Meeting Thursday 30^th January 2025

7.00pm to 8.30pm

Tore Hall

Present; K Mackenzie, A Mackay, A.C. Mackay, A. Cameron; A Grigor; L.Sutherland;

Cllr A Maclean (Ward 8)

Apologies: F Hastie (Family emergency)

Secretary apologises to A Brown for sending notice of meeting to the wrong email address.

Correspondence (circulated to members)

Minutes of the Last Meeting. Adopted. K Mackenzie;A Mackay;

Matters Arising

Items included in agenda.

Still to be arranged: proposed meeting between members of the CC, Councillors, MSP, MP, Highland Council Road Officials and BEAR. Press to be invited.

1. Road Safety/Emergency Issues.

Road is very narrow;
A row of posts (electric and lighting) are situated on both verges of the road;
There is no footpath by which pedestrians can access the filling station shop; postbox; bus-stops.
The Filling Station has been granted permission for EV charging points
The stretch of road is part of the official cycle track.

2. Bank of Scotland New Charges

Letter from BOS was evasive; non-conclusive regarding CC’s request for exemption. To be followed up.

3. Tore Hall Update

Recent new hires. Discussion continuing about: raising charges; buying free-standing infra-red heaters to supplement heat in the hall for groups such a yoga.

Two public events being planned in conjunction with Primary School: Summer Fayre and Harvest Celebration.

Proposal that Summer event should include a presentation of the Dingwall and Seaforth Place Plan.

Volunteers needed to help with upkeep.

Location of access to septic tank still not found, despite enquiries. Cllr Maclean has been trying to get information.

4. Killearnan Church Committee Meeting with Heritage Scotland.

A.C Mackay raised the issue with committee members as the present building stands on an ancient site which would have been consecrated – bishops are buried in the church.

5. Dingwall & Seaforth PP

K Mackenzie was unable to link in. Next TEAMS meeting on evening of February 13^th following discussion at Ward 8 Committee meeting.

6. Community Council LiaisonTEAMS.

2. Ross Memorial upgrade continuing.

Minor surgery may be reintroduced and also in Practices.

Lack of transport in rural areas for appointments.

Community Group now 62 organisations strong with ‘link officer’ (student)

Secretary will resend poster.

Bruce Morrison questioned whether time spent in 4 yearly meetings was justified by direct benefit to residents.

Divided opinions. Useful forum for airing concerns.

Cllr Maclean emphasised the vital part played by the Liaison Group in persuading NHS Highland to carry out the upgrade of the Ross Memorial Hospital.

AOCB

3 VE Day CC to discuss possibility of organising an event.

Meeting closed at 8.30pm. Next meeting.February27^th 2025

Draft Minutes of Killearnan CC Meeting Thursday 30^th January 2025

7.00pm to 8.30pm

Tore Hall

Present; K Mackenzie, A Mackay, A.C. Mackay, A. Cameron; A Grigor; L.Sutherland;

Cllr A Maclean (Ward 8)

Apologies: F Hastie (Family emergency)

Secretary apologises to A Brown for sending notice of meeting to the wrong email address.

Correspondence (circulated to members)

Minutes of the Last Meeting. Adopted. K Mackenzie;A Mackay;

Matters Arising

Items included in agenda.

Still to be arranged: proposed meeting between members of the CC, Councillors, MSP, MP, Highland Council Road Officials and BEAR. Press to be invited.

1. Road Safety/Emergency Issues.

Road is very narrow;
A row of posts (electric and lighting) are situated on both verges of the road;
There is no footpath by which pedestrians can access the filling station shop; postbox; bus-stops.
The Filling Station has been granted permission for EV charging points
The stretch of road is part of the official cycle track.

2. Bank of Scotland New Charges

Letter from BOS was evasive; non-conclusive regarding CC’s request for exemption. To be followed up.

3. Tore Hall Update

Recent new hires. Discussion continuing about: raising charges; buying free-standing infra-red heaters to supplement heat in the hall for groups such a yoga.

Two public events being planned in conjunction with Primary School: Summer Fayre and Harvest Celebration.

Proposal that Summer event should include a presentation of the Dingwall and Seaforth Place Plan.

Volunteers needed to help with upkeep.

Location of access to septic tank still not found, despite enquiries. Cllr Maclean has been trying to get information.

4. Killearnan Church Committee Meeting with Heritage Scotland.

A.C Mackay raised the issue with committee members as the present building stands on an ancient site which would have been consecrated – bishops are buried in the church.

5. Dingwall & Seaforth PP

K Mackenzie was unable to link in. Next TEAMS meeting on evening of February 13^th following discussion at Ward 8 Committee meeting.

6. Community Council LiaisonTEAMS.

2. Ross Memorial upgrade continuing.

Minor surgery may be reintroduced and also in Practices.

Lack of transport in rural areas for appointments.

Community Group now 62 organisations strong with ‘link officer’ (student)

Secretary will resend poster.

Bruce Morrison questioned whether time spent in 4 yearly meetings was justified by direct benefit to residents.

Divided opinions. Useful forum for airing concerns.

Cllr Maclean emphasised the vital part played by the Liaison Group in persuading NHS Highland to carry out the upgrade of the Ross Memorial Hospital.

AOCB

3 VE Day CC to discuss possibility of organising an event.

Meeting closed at 8.30pm. Next meeting.February27^th 2025

Killearnan CC Meeting Thursday 5^th December 2024

7.00pm to 8.30pm inTore Hall

Present; K Mackenzie, A Mackay, A Brown, A.C. Mackay, L.Sutherland;

Cllrs A Maclean; L. Johnston; G. Mackenzie

Apologies: F Hastie; A. Cameron; Cllrs S Kennedy; M Paterson

Correspondence (circulated to members)

Minutes of the Last Meeting. Adopted. A Mackay; A Brown

Matters Arising

Road Safety – A832 from Roundabout to Filling Station; A9 Pedestrian Crossing.

Meeting to be arranged for January for members of the CC, Councillors, MSP, MP, Highland Council Road Officials and BEAR. Press to be invited to attend.

Agenda Items.

1. Meeting with Dingwall & Seaforth Councillors, Police and Freeport CEO. 14th November, Dingwall Academy

The Secretary and A Mackay attended. Informative talk from Calum Macpherson. CEO Green Freeport.

a) The board was well aware of the main concerns involving housing and infrastructure.

Freeport Planning would have an inevatable effect on the IMFDP, in particular with regard to a review of planning permission. Cllr Graham added that a ‘Terralinks’ survey was being carried out to identify land, in fact, owned by the Highland Council.

Cllr Maclean said that the Highland Council were asking for definitive ‘milestones’ to ensure progress.

b) Recently appointed Chief Constable, Calum Smith, re-iterated his intention to hold regular meetings with CCs. He spoke of the effects of the reduction in staffing and the problems caused by centralisation. There were some points of criticism from attendees regarding efficiency.

2. BICC Meeting 11 November in Cromarty. BIPP governance

Attended by A Mackay and the Secretary

Five members from CCs have been selected to be members of the Governance Board. The funding issues associated with finding and appointing directors from local residents were discussed. Report of meeting received from C&DCC.

Cllr Johnson agreed that absence of funding for the ‘implementation’ of place plans was problematic. Their use as guidance and information in the formulation of the HC wider planning was perhaps a more realistic solution than expecting local CCs and residents to be responsible for the delivery of the elements included in each plan.

3. TEAMS Meeting 27th November D&S PP, Final draft. Attended by the Secretary.

The final plan, circulated to members, contains welcome proposals. Emphasis tends to centre of Dingwall, understandably. Jennifer Bruce, sadly, announced that she will no longer be heading the project as she is leaving for another post. Jennifer’s work on the project has been impressive. Graham Clark has sent an article to the planning group about the historic morthouse situated in Killearnan Church grave yard.

4. Proposed Visitor Levy HC Survey.

Members expressed mixed views. Campervan issues, in particular, were discussed along with effect on hotels, B&Bs. The survey is intended for personal response and will be posted on the CCs website.

5. Request to Discretionary Funds re public events planned for Tore Hall

L.Marshall and F Hastie are organising a series of fund and awareness raising events for Tore Hall in conjunction with the Primary School. ( Copy to members and councillors) The first event (in March) is to raise awareness of the hall as Killearnan’s emergency hub. Councillors felt that it was appropriate to seek funding from the discretionary funds and that application should come from the Killearnan Public Hall Committee.

6. BOS new Charges for Treasurer’s Accounts

Discussed at BICC meeting

The secretary made a telephone call earlier today to BOS Business Head Office for advice for tonight’s meeting. She was informed that they had had many similar complaints and they apologised but could not automatically exempt an organisation if a letter had been received. The Secretary pointed out that CCs were part of the democratic structure of the UK, set up by Acts of Parliament; they were not profit making organisatins; members were volunteers elected by residents to act on their behalf; they were not charities and in the case of Killearnan and many similar CCs, the funding provided by the L.A.s was so inadequate that members had to subsidise the work of the CC out of their own pockets. She stated that Killearnan’s annual grant from Highland Council was just over £439 out of which expenses such as insurance, hiral fees, IT costs etc had to be paid.

Advice

1) Change to another bank or become a charity because they are exempt!!!

2) Write an official letter to Head Office requesting exemption. Address – BOS Business, PO Box 1984, Andover. SP10 9GZ

Members agreed to write an official letter with copies to Kate Forbes MSP and MP Jamie Stone.

7. AOCB.

a) Check with D. Ferguson that Hall is officially registered with Highland Council as an emergency hub. Once completed by F Hastie (Coastguard) the Plan was sent to D. Agnew, then Ward Manager, and acknowledged by email. New application to be made to SSEN for a generator. Cllr Maclean suggested making application to the Regeneration Fund.

b) Hall Septic Tank. Location of manhole cover – needed in order to empty tank Our thanks to T Stott who has looked into the Planning Dept’s records and not found the location. He suggests that the old Highland Region, Ross and Cromarty Archive might have a record of work on tank in 1994. Secretary asked councillors, on behalf of the trustees, to see whether that archive was still accessible.

Cllr Johnson suggested Alford as an alternative to Scottish Water for tank emptying. TEL 07768 924 966.

c. Tore Primary School’s Christmas event to take place on December 11th

Members much appreciate the Councillors continuing support.

Meeting closed at 8.30pm. Next meeting. January 30^th 2025

October 2024 Newsletter

Road Safety Issues. A9, A835, A832. BEAR and HC responses.

The replies were less than satisfactory, giving little indication that the safety concerns would be addressed in the near future. Kate Forbes (MSP)’s office indicated her continued support as the issues are those raised in her independent road review. Members welcomed Cllr Johnstone’s suggestion to call a summit meeting of councillors, MSPs, road authority personnel, police. press etc to be held in the vicinity of the pedestrian crossing/roundabout in order to demonstrate the reality of the situation.Cllr Kennedy advised contacting Tracy Urray, Roads..The sign to School A835 has been replaced.

Public Transport.

The inadequacy of availability of public transport places serious restrictions on the quality of life in the rural areas of the Black Isle. The policy of making bus travel free for students and pensioners can only be of benefit to those residents for whom access to public transport is safe and available.

Change of date of D&SPP Meeting to November 7th. CC. Representation

K Mackenzie will attend the meeting at the British Legion 2.30 onwards.

Members commented on the additional onus placed on CC volunteers in attending the numerous meetings involved in the development of the two Place Plans (Black Isle and Dingwall Seaforth). This increase demanded not only giving time but also additional personal financial expense when CC grants, having been halved, could no longer support the basic work of a CC.. Cllr Johnstone suggested that CCs combine to urge HC to review its funding policy. Item for the next BICC Forum?.

.Emergency Hub (Hall)

The Killearnan Emergency Plan, with Tore Hall as the designated emergency hub, was submitted to Highland Council for registration in an email to Di Agnew (Ward Manager) on 24^th August 2022. Fiona Hastie is sourcing a defibrillato.r Her proposal to hold a ‘Coastguard team’ safety demonstration for the pupils of Tore School was included in the discussion about fund-raising events at the recent Tore Trustees’ meeting. Louise Marshall (Tore Hall Trustee) felt that such an event could be an effective awareness-raising occasion highlighting the hall’s use as an emergency hub. Cllr Johnstone suggested the inclusion of the Police Dog Handling Team (Donny Maclean).The most likely emergency is a prolonged blackout. Generator availability: SSEN do provide emergency generators for registered hubs.

Residents are advised to get in touch with SSEN Priority Services to be added to the Vulnerable Persons List.Telephone number: 08002943259.

The trustees welcome suggestions for fund-raising events at the hall and offers of help from the community. Hall email is torehall22@gmail.com

Remembrance Sunday

Ceremony at 9.30 am, November 10th at the Fettes War Memorial. Cllr Johnston to place wreath for HC and Mr G Bethune for Killearnan.

The next CC meeting will take place in Tore Hall at 7.00pm on Thursday, 28th November

End of Newsletter

Agenda

Correspondence. Dingwall & Seaforth Place Plan Docs and emails. Killearnan Parish Church - congregation members meeting; Dot Ferguson (HC), S Atkins: J Bruce (Cononbridge CC)

Minutes of the previous meeting.

Matters Arising

1, Black Isle Plan Governance Meetings

2. Dingwall and Seaforth Place Plan

3. Killearnan Parish Church

4. Annual Grant

5. Hiral of Tore Hall (payment)

6. Mailchimp Newsletter and residents list.

7. AOCB

Draft Minutes of the Killearnan CC AGM May 30th held in Tore Hall at 7.00pm.

Present: K Mackenzie, A Cameron, A Mackay, A Brown, A C Mackay; F Hastie

Cllrs Johnston, Kennedy and Mackenzie

Apologies:, Cllr Maclean

Cllr L Johnston chair

Election of Officers

Chair. K Mackenzie. Proposed: Anne Mackay; Seconded A Cameron

Secretary; Anne Mackay. Proposed K Mackenzie; seconded A . Cameron

Treasurer: Andrew Mackay. Proposed Fiona Hastie; seconded K Mackenzie

Vice-chair: Fiona Hastie. Proposed Anne Mackay; seconded A Brown.

Chair’s Report

I hope the last year has been good to most people, with the economy on the upturn. Sadly the community has lost a few old stalwarts from the area.

Road safety issues are still on going with the A9, A835 and A832. Hopefully upgrading work such as speed limits to the trunk roads and the village will soon materialise.

With a new hall committee now in place, repairs have been made to the electrical, heating and plumbing work having taken place as part of the upgrades to bring the hall up to modern building standards and the hall is now back open taking hires.

A consultation has taken place with architects and many from the community came to the open day to see the plans and options available. Large funds will be needed to see the project through.

The old Drovers road crossing, from Muckernich to Mossend over the Moadh Mhor woodland for the people of Killearnan CC and Ferintosh CC is still an on going issue.

The Black Isle Place Plan has been a long time in the making but is now coming to fruition so hopefully funds can be sought to help the communities of the Black Isle get much needed future proofing.

Thanks to Anne MacKay for her excellent work as secretary and Andrew MacKay for the excellent work as treasurer, along with all the other committee members, ward councillors who attend the meetings who have contributed all year without whom none of this community work would be achieved.

Chairman Kenné MacKenzie

Treasurer’s Report (Audited Accounts attached)

Draft Minutes of the Killearnan CC Meeting May 30th held in Tore Hall at 7.30 pm.

Present: K Mackenzie, A Cameron, A Mackay, A Brown, A C Mackay; F Hastie

Cllrs Johnston, Kennedy and Mackenzie

Apologies:, Cllr Maclean

Correspondence (circulated to members by email) Kate Forbes - Reply re. A832 Electric poles; HC Reorganisation of Departments; Minutes of D&DPP Teams Meeting; Kockbain CC – Meeting of BICC June 8; C&D Minutes.

Agenda

Minutes of March meeting adopted; K Mackenzie; seconded A Cameron

Members agreed to share minutes with C&DCC

BIPP

The plan has been submitted to Highland Council. BICC Meeting June 8 at North Kessock Hub. Chair – Knockbain. Authors of BIPP will attend. Fiona Hastie and Anne Mackay will attend. Andrew Mackay will cover if Fiona is called out for a Coastguard emergency

Members discussed the BIP’s involvement in rejecting the ‘Governance’ Statement agreed by a majority of the BICC members. Cllrs Mackenzie; Kennedy and Johnston emphasised the status of the CCs as statutory bodies authorised to represent their communities. The essential nature of Place Plans was that they must be based on the needs of communities as identified by residents themselves.

Road Safety.

A832

Members were dissatisfied with the Highland Council’s reply to MSP Kate Forbes’s enquiry into the situation of electric poles on the A832 east exiting and entering the Tore roundabout where the road narrows. Further submissions will be made to the MSP and Transport Scotland as the issue concerns aspects of the Forbes’ Independent Review.

Ross Bartlett (HC) will be contacted re traffic calming measures on this stretch of the road through the village of Tore. Visibility is poor when exiting the HGV Filling station and vehicles from the Munlochy direction can be travelling at 60mph.

A9 Roundabout and Pedestrian Crossing.

Residents are still waiting for the implementation of the 40mph speed limit at the roundabout and connecting roads. The uncontrolled crossing continues to endanger residents accessing public transport, including young pupils of the local academy.

MSP and Transport Scotland to be pressed for traffic lights at the roundabout as the most effective method of reducing the hazards.

Re-organisation of HC Departments.

Cllr Mackenzie – the effects of the cost-saving exercise will be clearer as the re-organising filters down through the departments. The new head appointees will be dealing with more complex (‘bulky’) departments but should be equal to the task.

Dingwall & District PP/MDCPP Report.

Public Transport. Rural areas are poorly served. Residents in Tore have to cross A9 to access buses.

Spacing of bus-stops. Suggest extra stop at road end to Hall – school bus already stops there. Cllr Kennedy will contact David Summers & Stagecoach.

The new bus route from Fortrose to Dingwall is via Cromarty and Culbokie, not Tore

Other possible ameliorations suggested:

Cllr Johnston mentioned Ferintosh ‘Communities in Motion’ initiative which is now up and running. Extra volunteers needed.

Stagecoach ‘Dial a Bus’ had been quite useful – discontinued.

Tore Hall Update

A Brown (Chair) listed the improvements to wiring, lighting, heating and plumbing. Several groups had returned to the hall and HC had booked it as a polling station for this year’s election.

Members discussed the Consultants Design and Management Proposals. The plans were more extensive than at first envisaged, costings were questioned. Issues were raised regarding the efficacy of insulating the old hall. Raising funds to finance the project will be challenging.

Maintenance. Strimming has removed the weeds in the car park. The safety checks on electrics and fire alarm have been carried out.

AOCB

1. Fortrose Academy. Mrs Mackay raised the issue of the safety of the main building. The main wall to the right of the main entrance had been described by a professional surveyor as unsound due to ‘concrete cancer’when Mrs Mackay had been chair of the Parent Council (over 20 years ago!). Asbestos had been removed from room 1 and the science labs some time ago but now the study hall ceiling had collapsed and exposed further asbestos installation. There were also concerns about the ‘technical and gym’ areas of the building.

Cllrs Mackenzie and Johnston assured members that Fortrose Academy was high on the list for repairs under the recent 2 billion pound Highland Investment Plan allocation of funding for school repairs.

2 A832 junction with Bogroy Road.

Traffic travelling at up to 60mph from the roundabout were a hazard to vehicles using the entrance to the farm road. The implementation of the 40mph restriction on roads accessing the roundabout was overdue.

Farm road, Bogroy. Is an adopted HC road and in a poor state of repair. Cllr Kennedy advised photographing the evidence and contacting Laura McAllister.

3. Drovers Road. Still no action. Ms Hastie will prepare a poster with QR code asking residents for details about their experience in using the right of way over the years. Poster will be placed at the filling station. Cllr Kennedy will look into why there has been no action as yet from Mr Waites’ department, despite evidence of usage being sent.

4. Emailing List (Residents) Cllr Johnston will work with Mrs Mackay to ensure the privacy of residents listed.

Dates of Meetings 2024 -2025

2024 – August 27th, September 26th; October 31st; November 28th

2025 – January 30th; February 27th; March 27th, May 29th (+AGM)

Tore Hall Redevelopment Plans

The Tore Hall trustees are moving to achieve the community’s desire of a hall fit for the 21st century. They appointed a design and feasibility team in October to explore options for redeveloping the hall and the team have been working on the study since then. Now that design options have been developed the trustees would like the community to give their views on the way ahead. Principal architect Robert Fraser and Community Development Consultant Duncan MacPherson will be present in the hall for a drop-in event on Wednesday 28th February from 4-7pm. All community members and other interested parties are invited to come along to see the design options and learn how they could provide the community facilities and services identified following the 2022 consultation exercise.

KillearnanCC

Newsletter

February 2024

Points of Interest:

Killearnan Public Hall

A832 Roundabout to Garage

Black Isle Place Plan

Contact Secretary on 01463811336 or email: killearnanccouncil2@gmail.com

Killearnan Public Hall (Tore). Open Meeting: Wednesday 28th February 4 – 7 pm

Duncan Macpherson’s Consultancy Team will hold an open meeting in Tore Hall on Wednesday 28th February to reveal their architectural drawings, plans and findings regarding the extension of Tore Hall as a modern amenity for Killearnan residents and the wider community. Do please try to come along to have your say!

The lighting and heaters in the existing hall have been upgraded by MKM Electrical Contractors to reduce the hall’s “carbon footprint”.

Tore Roundabout & A832 towards the Filling Station: Hazards

Transport Scotland, Highland Council, SSEN and MSP Kate Forbes have been informed of the increasing safety hazards to traffic leaving and accessing the A9 Tore roundabout from the A832 east where the road narrows to a bottleneck and electric and lamp posts are situated close to the road. The CC has registered an objection with the Planning Department on the grounds that, if granted, Bannerman’s application for planning permission to install EV charging points at the Filling Station and use the area beside the garage for parking will exacerbate the hazards. A positive response has been received from Ms Forbes stating an intention to pursue the matter with Transport Scotland and Highland Council.

The Black Isle Place Plan

The authors of the Plan are holding a meeting on Tuesday evening (February 27th) in Fortrose Academy Library to discuss the nature of the governance of the plan to ensure that it is carried forward and implemented effectively. Some of the present suggestions/proposals re governance have caused some controversy amongst members of the CCs and local councillors. Residents of the Black Isle are encouraged to attend.

Drovers Road

Additional evidence of its usage has been sent to Mr Waite (Highland Council)

Milton of Redcastle Telephone Kiosk. The residents of the village are now the owners of the kiosk, the CC having agreed the contract with BT on their behalf.

Staying in touch with Killearnan Residents. The CC has applied to Ward 9 Discretionary Budget for funding to keep producing the Newsletter. A list of residents’ email addresses would be useful in enabling the CC to keep residents up to date on issues and be able to respond more directly to individual concerns. If you are willing to be included in such a mailing list please send details to killearnanccouncil2@gmail.com

Next CC Meeting: February 29th , 7.00pm, Tore Hall

Minutes of the Meeting held in Killearnan Public Hall, Tore on November 30th from

7.00pm to 8.30pm.

Present

K Mackenzie, A Cameron, A Mackay, F Hastie, A.C. Mackay

Cllr. L Johnstone (Ward 9); Residents. G Patience; C Mackay (Youth Rep).

Apologies: Cllrs Maclean & Paterson (Ward 8); A Brown (Bereavement)

Minutes Adopted: A Cameron; A Mackay

The CC welcomes its new member Ms Fiona Hastie who was not able to attend the first meeting of the new CC, owing to her Coastguard duty to respond to an emergency call out.

AGENDA

CC Finance.

Members discussed a circulated paper setting out the CC’s current financial status. Finances 2023

In Total 12-Jul-23 Highland Council Grant £439.46 In account£774.49

17-Nov-23 Poppy Factory £38.40 £736.09

10-Nov-23 Minister Farewell Gift £4.00 £732.09

21-Nov-23 Newsletters School £15.00 £717.09

Further costs to pay - up to June 2024

Newsletter Distribution £20 (December)

Zurich Insurance £109+ (April)

Rent for Hall – 6 meetings 1-2 hrs at £10 per hour = £60 -£80. New expense as Highland Council no longer allows Tore Primary School for our meetings.

It Expenses -£120 (Broadband/Texts/Emails/Mobile Calls/Lap-top Documents/Webinars)

This year’s annual grant: £439.46 minus £329.09 overall costs leaves a sum of £110 (No printer/mailing/travelling costs included in the £329.09). The £110 left from this session’s annual grant will have to cover printer and other expenses for meetings plus secretary’s honorarium. (Usual honorarium £300)

The total sum in the account in November - £717.09 includes the 2023 £439.46 annual grant and a further sum of £277.63 which is made up from £150 transferred from FRCC to Killearnan CC for BICC meetings and minutes. We held 2 meetings this session plus an extra meeting at the request of BI Plan Authors – secretary made no claim for arranging the meetings, writing and circulating them inutes – the irst venue was given free by Kilcoy Kindergarten. The remaining sum of £127 is largely from a one-off Wind-farm grant during the construction of the installation at Maryborough.

According to HC information, the annual grant includes the cost of the Zurich Insurance which means that Killearnan’s actual grant for other running costs is in fact £330.46 The population of Killearnan in 2023 is given as 697. which means that the CC is allocated less than 50p per head for each resident.

The elected volunteer members of a Community Council have a statutory duty, according to the duties and responsibilities set out in the relevant Acts of Parliament to represent their residents’ interests by liaising with the appropriate authorities. It is the basic structure of our democracy. These include;

the local authority and its departments such as Planning; Licensing; Roads, Education and Ward Managers (Wards 8 & 9 in Killearnan’s case); Councillors – 7 elected members; 2 local area committees.

Other bodies include: The Scottish Government(i.e. Forbes A9 Review) ; Transport Scotland; Scottish Water; Sepa; the Black Isle Place Plan Team; SSE; Green Free Port; Police … Liaison involves being well informed on current issues, statutes, infrastructures; paying for and updating broadband access; keeping in touch with local organisations, businesses and neighbouring communities; IT Skills (including maintaining a CC website); correspondence mainly by email, sometimes by telephone; participation in meetings both virtual and actual.

Killearnan CC has striven over the past 3-4 years on a reduced grant (cut by 50% in 2018/19) to carry out its statutory duties. No member of our CC has claimed travel expenses. We no longer have the resources to cover all the running costs.

Statement from Highland Council in 2018-19

“Ward Discretionary Budgets have been halved still allowing money for local initiatives and comunity council grants have been cut by around 50%. A number of CCs have access to other sources of income and some also have considerable reserves. Funding has been reduced for Christmas lights.”

The rationale given here (other sources of funding etc) does not apply to this Community Council or many others. One of the reasons that 2 of the 7 Black Isle CCs are now in abeyance?

It is a long time since this CC could support community celebrations by, for instance, lighting up a christmas tree in the grounds of the Kilcoy Arms or distributing packets of tea bags to OAPs or contributing to Tore Primary School’s events.

During the discussion, Cllr Johnstone referred to the Highland Council’s increasing deficit and need to reduce the annual budget still further. She asked whether the CC had responded to the Chief Executive’s survey seeking the views of residents re: their budget priorities. The secretary had circulated the email. A response had been made emphasising the importance of maintaining all educational services at an appropriately high level .

Cllr Johnstone suggested that the CC reduce its number of CC meetings to cut down costs. However, since the CCs constitution, as set out by the Highland Council, states a minimum number of meetings to be held to qualify for an annual grant, this was not a feasible solution.

Cllr Johnstone further suggested that members apply to both Ward 8 & Ward 9 Discretionary Budgets for funding to allow the CC to meet its running cost. It was agreed that a sum of £500 be applied for from each budget to help make up the shortfall. The maximum sum allowed being no more than £1000 from each DB owing to the current financial crisis.

Suggestions offered by members, regarding reducing Highland Council’s deficit, included applying greater diligence in selecting and employing consultants and executives to avoid wastage of resources and more careful scrutiny by councillors of departments’ productivity and the efficacy of their policies before voting them through. Examples were given.

Road Safety

A9. Transport Scotland has informed the CC by email that they intend to reduce the speed limit on roads approaching the roundabout and the roundabout itself to 40mph.

The CCs requests to the HC Roads Department to reduce the speed limit to 20 mph on the hazardous, narrow stretch of the A832 between the Tore A9 Roundabout and the HGV Filling Station have, as yet, received no reply.

SSE has responded to the CCs warning that electric poles on the verges of the narrow stretch of road ( A832 ) between the roundabout and filling station have already caused minor damage to vehicles and there could be more serious accidents. SSE has identified the locations and agreed to investigate solutions.

The secretary forwarded complaints from residents of Milton of Redcastle concerning the deteriorating road surface on the single track road from North Kessock which joins the A832 near Fettes. The road is increasingly being used as a ‘rat run’ when traffic is held up on the A9 due to bridge closures. We await a response.

Recycling Bins at Tore Hall – poor condition of the pavement beside the bins – deep mud-filled potholes. The Waste Manager has made contact hy email and telephone to say that he is well aware of the situation and is discussing with his superiors the best way of improving the site. The CC expresses its thanks to Cllr Maclean (Ward 8) and Julie Wileman, temporary Ward 9 Manager, for facilitating this contact.

Drovers Road Update

A resident has emailed a response to requests published in our recent Newsletter for evidence of continued use of the path by walkers. Her email, along with further maps and written accounts, have been forwarded to Mr Phil Waites (HC) who has not yet replied.

AOCB

a) Adoption of Telephone Kiosk at Milton of Redcastle.

In response to the BT contact (Edinburgh) the CC secretary has posted a 90 day notice inside the kiosk and sent photographic evidence of the notice and the location to the contact. If there are no objections the folk of Milton can call the kiosk their own.

b) It seems that TEClan (late Kilcoy Arms) has applied for a licence and planning permission for a tattooing, piercing and foot massage salon. The CC has not been officially informed as yet by either HC Department.

Tore Hall Consultancy Request
As part of our tender we said that we would conduct an online survey to better understand any potential demand from within the community for desk space within an extended hall building. The survey is now accessible via this link:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BM6D5GF

It is quite short and can be completed quite quickly. The information it provides will help inform the feasibility study and help you as a group to decide whether or not it is an option you may wish to pursue in a final business plan. Can you share the link through relevant channels to ensure wide access to it please? I will report on any initial findings in the draft options appraisal and feasibility report, but we can leave the survey open in order to catch later responses following a community consultation event on the different options available for development of the hall.

Regards,

Duncan

Newsletter October 2023

Tore roundabout & A832

Transport Scotland have indicated that they plan to implement a 40mph speed limit at the roundabout and on roads approaching the roundabout.

Transport Scotland and Highland Council have been informed of the increasing safety hazards to traffic leaving and accessing the roundabout from the A832 east at Tore where the road narrows to a bottleneck.

A 20mph limit through the village has been requested.

Killearnan Public Hall (Tore). Updates

The Entertainment Licence has been re-issued and groups have already begun to use the hall. The Trustees have been awarded a grant of £24,000 from the Community Regeneration Fund for consultancy work in planning a new free-standing timber net-zero extension in the garden of the Hall. Duncan Macpherson’s Team have been been given the contract and discussions begin by Zoom on Thursday 2nd November.

Remembrance Sunday

The Remembrance Service is at 9.30 am on Sunday 12th November at the Fettes Memorial.

Mr George Bethune has agreed to lay the wreath on behalf of the community. The service at the War Memorial and later at Killearnan Church will be the Rev Susan Cord's last services in the parish.

Drovers road – from beside Tore School over to Ferintosh. Heritage Route Members are keen to re-open the old right of way to residents and other walkers. Councillors and Mr P Waite (HC) have been approached. Mr Waite has written to say more individual witness evidence of use is needed to support the route as marked on several old maps. Can you help? If so, send an email to the address above,

Community Council Inaugural Meeting. Following this year’s CC elections your Killearnan CC is up and running again, joined by a new member Ms Fiona Hastie of the Coastguard. Officer Bearers are as follows: Chair- Kenne Mackenzie; Vice-chair. Vacant; Secretary – Anne Mackay;Treasurer – Andrew Mackay. All meetings are open to the public. Next meeting – November 30th.

Green Free Port. Notes recorded at GFP Teams meeting. Overall impression that the project still remained more of a statement of aspirations than a detailed plan.Councillors’ impressions similar.

Points made: Project closely linked with off-shore windfarm proposals. Production of green hydrogen.Most transport by sea. Installations on brown field sites -Ardesier; Nigg; Invergordon & port area of Inverness.Housing – need for improved infrastructure if more construction. Cllr Johnston commented that HC Councilhouse Debt Relief had been and was still retained by the Westminster Government which hampered the ability of HC to build more affordable housing.

KillearnanCC

Newsletter

June 2023

Points of Interest:

Tore Roundabout & Crossing

Killearnan Public Hall

Contact Secretary on 01463811336 or email: killearnanccouncil2@gmail.com

Tore Roundabout & Crossing: Letter from Transport Scotland 14 June 2023

“Thank you for your email of 6 June on behalf of Killearnan Community Council to my colleague Richard Perry regarding the A9 Tore Roundabout.

The speed limit review for the A9 and A835 at Tore roundabout has been completed and recommended a reduction in speed limit to 40mph on the approaches to the roundabout, as well as the roundabout itself. This is proposed to include the existing uncontrolled crossing point on the A9 dual carriageway to the south of Tore Roundabout, it is understood that Highland Council will promote a similar speed limit on the A832 approaches where they are the Road Authority.

The statutory process to progress the draft speed limit order is expected to commence shortly, as this requires public consultation and is subject to the possibility of objections, this can delay or terminate the process. Whilst every effort will be made to resolve any objections, there is no guarantee at this point the speed limit proposal can be introduced in a defined timeframe.

As part of recent resurfacing works on the A9 carriageway, yellow bar markings to encourage drivers to adapt their speed on the dual carriageway approach to the Tore Roundabout were installed, in addition, extra lane destination markers were installed to assist drivers with selecting the correct lane. A feasibility study was carried out by our Operating Company BEAR Scotland in July 2022 which reviewed road safety and Non-Motorised User (NMU) provisions at the A9 Tore Roundabout. Additional improvement options, such as the introduction of traffic signals and controlled pedestrian crossings at, or near, Tore Roundabout, along with relocation of bus stops are programmed for further investigation in the current financial year. Due to the volume of traffic, locations of existing bus stops and the nature of likely routes of pedestrian demand, this assessment is complex and requires the development and testing of a traffic model. The purpose of this model is to identify the most feasible solution that best balances the needs of those walking, wheeling and cycling alongside the strategic function of the A9 and A835 trunk roads. Consultation with local stakeholders and road safety partners will be carried out at the appropriate stage as part of the assessment of potential options. In the shorter term, we have requested BEAR Scotland to review the visibility sightlines and ensure these are free from vegetation.”

Killearnan Public Hall (Tore). Updates

Repairs and upgrading of the electrics and plumbing have been completed. A new Fire Alarm system has been installed. The works were made possible by grants from Highland Council, Island and Rural Communities & the Lottery Small Awards. Trustees are applying for a renewal of the Entertainment Licence. We have asked the Wards Discretionary Budget for finance for help with improvments such as re-painting. If you can help in smartening up the hall email: torehall22@gmail.com.

The next step: to further modernise our Community Centre, the trustees are applying to a range of funding sources in order to build a free-standing, net-zero timber extension in the Hall’s garden. The building is planned to have 2 meeting rooms, WIFI, disabled access toilets, baby changing facilities, kitchen and treatment area. The hall is the hub of the official Killearnan Emergency Plan.

Milton of Redcastle Red Telephone Kiosk Adoption.

The CC is supporting the residents in applying to adopt the treasured kiosk for £1. H.C. has also been asked to support the adoption.

For further news and details. please visit the Killearnan Community Council Website.

Draft Minutes of the Killearnan Community Council Ordinary Meeting

Held in Tore Hall on May 30th 2023

Present: K. Mackenzie; A. P. Mackay; A Cameron; A Brown; A.C.Mackay;

Cllr M MacCallum (Ward 9). Apologies: Cllr A Maclean (Ward 8)

AGENDA

1 .Road Matters

a) A9 Tore. Pedestrian Crossing safety issues; neglected state of bus shelters. BEAR, Transport Scotland, MSP & MP to conntacted.

b) A 9161? Road from Tore to Glaikmore: Extended closure for Water Main Upgrade (i) Residents experiencing difficulty of access; (ii) Poor road surface at Teclan junction. Cllr MacMacallum to make enquiries.

2. Drovers Road. Cllr Maclean plans to meet with P Waite. Some evidence of usage has been gathered. Members still keen to restore path.

3. Hall Upgrade

A Existing building. Extensive repairs and some upgrading carried out to electricals, fire alarm system and plumbing. The treasurer is applying for renewal of the Entertainment and Performance Licences. Applications are to be made to both Ward 8 and Ward 9 Discretionary Fund for £5000 from each to complete upgrading of lighting and heating appliances; to repair flooring in hall, kitchen, toilets; to repaint damaged and shabby areas of the building; to replace or insulate external doors.

B. New build. In the grounds of Hall. Provisional floor plan of a fully insulated timber building 30.4ft x 26ft with 2 meeting rooms; a kitchen and treatment area; disabled toilet, toilets, wash-basins and baby changing. The porch area can also be accesses via a ramp. Tree felling and ground preparation will be required. Existing septic tank should be adequate. Application to Community Regeneration Fund: £80,000. Mr Mackenzie read a letter to members from Ms Tanner regarding last years application where she includes a copy of an email which stated that members were willing to award 100% of costs The email failed to reach the Charity Trustees and the CC members.

Energy sources and electrical appliances in the new building will be in keeping with ‘Net-Zero’ policies. Local Energy Scotland Fund (Cares) application for £50,000 for this purpose.

4 Position of Community Councils.

Several points were aired during the discussion. Among these were the following:-

5. The road directly in front of the Recycling Bins in Tore Hall Car Park needs repairing.

In wet weather mud fills the area, making it difficult to access the bins. The bins are HC’s responsibility. Unsightly refuse is scattered behind the bins.

Draft Minutes of the Killearnan Community Council Ordinary Meeting

Held in Tore Hall on May 30th 2023

Present: K. Mackenzie; A. P. Mackay; A Cameron; A Brown; A.C.Mackay;

Cllr M MacCallum (Ward 9). Apologies: Cllr A Maclean (Ward 8)

AGENDA

1 .Road Matters

a) A9 Tore. Pedestrian Crossing safety issues; neglected state of bus shelters. BEAR, Transport Scotland, MSP & MP to conntacted.

2. Drovers Road. Cllr Maclean plans to meet with P Waite. Some evidence of usage has been gathered. Members still keen to restore path.

3. Hall Upgrade

Energy sources and electrical appliances in the new building will be in keeping with ‘Net-Zero’ policies. Local Energy Scotland Fund (Cares) application for £50,000 for this purpose.

4 Position of Community Councils.

Several points were aired during the discussion. Among these were the following:-

With a reduced grant of less than £450 per annum, the work of this committee is having to be subsidised by the voluntary members, as is often the case for any CC where no additional finance such as Wind Farm Funding is available. The imbalance is resulting in a growing inequality in the service a CC can offer its community Many voluntary bodies now complain of a dearth of volunteers. However, unlike most non CC committees, a Community Council Council is part of the democratic process and consists of publicly elected members plus optional co-opted members. Each Local Authority is responsible for maintaining the effectiveness of the CCs in its area. The increase in demands on time and resources is becoming a problem. This CC is no longer able, for instance, to support cultural activities such as fetes, galas, a christmas tree & lights, grants to local groups - as it did in the past. We have even lost our accustomed meeting place as Tore Primary School has been removed from the list of venues for hire.
l
Killearnan Public Hall (Tore). Open Meeting: Wednesday 28th February 4.00 – .700pm
Duncan Macpherson’s Consultancy Team will hold an open meeting in Tore Hall on Wednesday 28th
February to reveal their architectural drawings, plans and findings regarding the extension of Tore
Hall as a modern amenity for Killearnan residents and the wider community. Do please try to come
along to have your say!
The lighting and heaters in the existing hall have been upgraded by MKM Electrical Contractors to reduce the
hall’s “carbon footprint”.
Tore Roundabout & A832 towards the Filling Station: Hazards
Transport Scotland, Highland Council, SSEN and MSP Kate Forbes have been informed of the increasing
safety hazards to traffic leaving and accessing the A9 Tore roundabout from the A832 east where the road
narrows to a bottleneck and electric and lamp posts are situated close to the road. The CC has registered an
objection with the Planning Department on the grounds that, if granted, Bannerman’s application for planning
permission to install EV charging points at the Filling Station and use the area beside the garage for parking
will exacerbate the hazards. A positive response has been received from Ms Forbes stating an intention to
pursue the matter with Transport Scotland and Highland Council.
The Black Isle Place Plan
The authors of the Plan are holding a meeting on Tuesday evening (February 27th) in Fortrose Academy
Library to discuss the nature of the governance of the plan to ensure that it is carried forward and implemented
effectively. Some of the present suggestions/proposals re governance have caused some controversy amongst
members of the CCs and local councillors. Residents of the Black Isle are encouraged to attend.
Drovers Road
Additional evidence of its usage has been sent to Mr Waite (Highland Council)
Milton of Redcastle Telephone Kiosk. The residents of the village are now the owners of the kiosk, the CC
having agreed the contract with BT on their behalf.
Staying in touch with Killearnan Residents. The CC has applied to Ward 9 Discretionary Budget for
funding to keep producing the Newsletter. A list of residents’ email addresses would be useful in enabling the
CC to keep residents up to date on issues and be able to respond more directly to individual concerns. If you
are willing to be included in such a mailing list please send details to killearnanccouncil2@gmail.com
Next CC Meeting: February 29th , 7.00pm, Tore Hall
KillearnanCC
Newsletter
February 2024
Points of Interest:
Killearnan Public Hall
A832 Roundabout to Garage
Black Isle Place Plan
Contact Secretary on 01463811336 or email:
killearnanccouncil2@gmail.com

5. The road directly in front of the Recycling Bins in Tore Hall Car Park needs repairing.

In wet weather mud fills the area, making it difficult to access the bins. The bins are HC’s responsibility. Unsightly refuse is scattered behind the bins.

Draft Minutes of the Killearnan CC TEAMS Meeting, May 1st “2023

Attending: K Mackenzie, A P Mackay, A.C Mackay, F Hastie, Cllr A Maclean, Cllr M McCallum

Apologies: A Cameron; A Brown; S Glenn.

The specific purpose of the meeting was to seek members’ approval of a draft letter seeking clear and agreed guidelines on the relationship between Highland Council and CCs. The letter concentrates on a way forward rather than the past and on working together with HC to reach a more mutually beneficial partnership. The letter would be sent to the Highland Council on behalf of the BICCs following the other CCs comments and endorsement.

Members & co-opted members approving the letter: K Mackenzie; A P Mackay; A.C Mackay; F Hastie; A Cameron; A Brown; S Glenn (by email); S Hudson (by Telephone)

Clllr Maclean suggested that the Mid-Ross Planning Partnership be included. Mr R Mair had steered a Commission on Highland Democracy for HC set up in 2014

Members suggested that a firm deadline for finalising the guidelines be sought.

Letter to be affixed once agreed by CCs.

DRAFT MINUTES OF THE KILLEARNAN CC MEETING March 30 th, 2023

Held at Cnoc eile -beg, Tore – 7.00pm – 9.30pm

Present: Mr K Mackenzie, Mr A Mackay, Mr A Cameron, Mrs A C Mackay, Ms F Hastie , Cllr A Maclean; Ms C Mackay (Youth Representative). Residents: Mrs I Rose.

Apologies: Cllr G Mackenzie, Cllr Paterson

The use of a domestic venue was necessitated because of the unavailability of Killearnan Public Hall (Electrical Repairs) and Highland Council’s removal of Tore Primary School from the hiral list. Attendees agreed to the arrangement.

Minutes Adopted: Mr K Mackenzie and Mr A Mackay.

Matters Arising - covered by agenda.

Correspondence: emails- Fiona Rural re Drovers Road; Cllr Aitkin-Waste Disposal (See AOCB).

AGENDA

1 Date, Venue and suggested Agenda for next BICC meeting.

a) 7.00pm, April 19th;. Kilcoy Kindergarten to be asked to lend premises, again. Possible alternative – Killearnan Church Hall (Rev Cord agrees).

b) Agenda Items (i) Place Plan update; (ii) Free Port; (iii) A 9 Closures; (iv) Coastal Erosion; (v) Future of Highland Council and Community Councils.

Members agreed to invite Mr R Mair and representatives of Muir of Ord CC to the meeting.

2 Planning Matters

Place Plan and Free Port Webinar (March 24)

Webinar points: increase in job opportunities; need to ensure above basic pay levels; local benefits; increase in affordable housing; education – encouragement of STEM subjects from Primary level – UHS; Customs and Tax changes – discussions with UK Government towards Act of Parliament; improvements in roads and connectivity generally. Long term plan -25 years – early stages of project.

Public Meeting, Killearnan Church Hall, Wednesday 29th March. Managers of the Place Plan (Mr Wright and Ms Richmond) in attendance. Display boards presented the project’s main aims and approaches. Residents were encouraged to leave comments on post-it slips. Further public meetings and consultations to follow. To help advertise the meeting, CC had sent out a Newsletter, included the notice on the CC Webpage and by private email.

3 Tore Hall Update Electrical system upgrade. Electrician planned to begin work towards end of March. Main tasks – replacement of obsolete control panel and updating fire alarm system. Once electrician gives the all-clear, Trustees will make a re-application for Entertainment Licence. Cllr Maclean advises to read form carefully and to tick a wide range of uses. Application cannot be expedited. Burst pipe. Plumber hopes to carry out repair during Easter holidays.

The Way Forward for the 21st Century (A Modern Extension) - Survey of similar schemes to modernise public halls and amenities as suggested by Ms S. Glenn. The secretary has received photographs of the extension built at Inverness Bowling Club and an invitation to visit the club for advice from the official who organised and oversaw the club’s project which was supported by Lottery Funding.

Extra funding will be needed for Tore. Having unfortunately been missed out from the last tranche of Regeneration funding, members are keen to learn when the next round will open. Cllr Maclean said HC has not yet heard. Mr Cameron mentioned the apparent lack of parity in the distribution of Windfarm monies where some communities were helped with generous contributions and others in nearby vicinities received nothing.

Youth Representative Suggestion – Tore Pupils Involvement.

Members welcomed Ms C. Mackay as our new Youth Representative. Remembering all the exciting activities she enjoyed in the hall as part of Tore Primary School Curriculum, Ms Mackay suggests a pupil project where the children indicate in words and pictures what activities they would like to happen for them in the hall. This would help to highlight how important the venue is to the school and the well-being of the pupils, physically, mentally and culturally. Members approved the idea. Rev Cord offered to discuss the initiative with the head teacher as she was meeting him the following day in Munlochy.

Other points:- the prospect of a new modern school building to house Tore and Munlochy Primary Schools is not likely in the near future owing to severe financial constraints. Excellent new educational facilities have been provided in Alness and parts of Inverness but rural areas tend to be overlooked. Both Munlochy and Tore schools need to use their local public halls for essential aspects of the Curriculum for Excellence but, whereas Munlochy Hall is available, Tore Hall still remains closed.

4 A9 Road Issues - Problems associated with the A9 and adjoining roads.

Ms F Hastie – Discussions continue with relevant agencies on the panel set up to examine how best to address these complex issues. Public safety is a chief priority and access of emergency vehicles is assured.

Single Track road from Milton of Redcastle to A832 There has been an increase volume of traffic heading for the A832 via this route, in order to avoid hold-ups on the A9. The road surface is now seriously damaged by deep and numerous pot holes. HC has already been alerted but CC will follow up by a further request for urgent repairs.

5 Coronation: Having, at present, no suitable public venue for a Killearnan celebration, the CC offers to help Tore Primary School staff with any plans they may have to celebrate the event.

6 Monadh Muir Drovers Road.

Representatives have met with Mr Phil Waite to discuss the issue. Ordnance Survey maps indicate the route. Testimonies are needed from residents who have used the path. Mrs Rose attended the meeting to re-iterate her opposition to reopening the path and to complain that Mr Waite has not replied to her. Cllr Maclean offered to contact him and arrange a meeting. Cllrs Maclean and Mackenzie had attended the CC meeting in November when the re-opening of the path was discussed along with Mrs Mackenzie’s history of its use but were not at the January meeting when Mrs Rose made her objection. A wide ranging discussion took place which covered such points as: a) initial move to re-open the path originated in Ferintosh area; b) FSL were now in support; c) Mrs Rose gave privacy as her reason for opposing the path but would not answer on how far her house was from the route; whether the access to the path was being blocked in any way and whether she would try to prevent individuals from making use of it; d) citing the Peffery Way initiative, which Ward 8 councillors supported, Cllr Maclean pointed out that rights of way and pathways were of great benefit to the well-being of the community.

CC had received a request by email from “Fiona Rural” asking for copies of the route history and relevant maps. These had been supplied.

7 AOCB: a) A meeting with stakeholders and Dingwall Medical Practice has taken place. b) Ross Memoria Hospital. Mr Kenny Rodgers, NHS Area Manage has stated that no new building will take place and asks for communities to write in support of maintaining the vital medical centre. (Cllr Maclean). c) Waste Disposal Arrangements: In order to improve domestic recycling habits, the following changes are proposed. Green bin (general waste) to be halved in size and original bin to be cleansed and used in conjuction with blue bin for recyclable materials. A new food disposal container will be supplied. There is still some lackof clarity in the proposal.

Gss and Electric Meters Rebates - Unclaimed

Good morning,

I am emailing on behalf of Advice Direct Scotland (ADS) to bring to your attention that around one in five households with prepayment gas and electricity meters have not redeemed their energy rebate vouchers. ADS would appreciate it if you can highlight this entitlement to any of your constituents who may be affected to make sure they’re not missing out on the vouchers.

Advice Direct Scotland wants to make sure that households do not miss out and has urged Scots to:

Check unopened mail, in case the vouchers have been missed.
Check with energy suppliers, using contact details found on bills, statements, and official websites.
Contact energyadvice.scot if there are any difficulties getting through to suppliers or resolving issues. The team can be contacted on 0808 196 8660 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm), or through www.energyadvice.scot.

Below you will find a press release that was sent out on Tuesday morning.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with Conor Forbes on conor.forbes@advice.scot if you have any questions regarding Energy Vouchers or would like any further information about the wider work of Advice Direct Scotland.

Kind regards,

Matthew

--------------------------------------------------------

NEWS FROM ADVICE DIRECT SCOTLAND

EMBARGO: IMMEDIATE

Comment on thousands of energy vouchers not redeemed

Around one in five households with prepayment gas and electricity meters have not redeemed their energy rebate vouchers. PayPoint sent out hundreds of thousands of vouchers in November under the UK Government’s support scheme.
But the prepayment vouchers are only valid for 90 days – meaning those issued in November have now expired. Almost one in five households in Scotland use prepayment meters for their gas or electricity.
Most households will have £400 automatically taken off their electricity bills in six instalments, or will have the money added to their accounts. However, those on traditional prepayment meters need the vouchers to get the discount. PayPoint said that 79 per cent of customers have so far redeemed their December vouchers, which have a deadline of March 8.
Customers who have not yet redeemed their January vouchers have until April 9.

Advice Direct Scotland wants to make sure that households do not miss out and has urged Scots to:

Conor Forbes, policy director with Advice Direct Scotland, said:
“With energy prices still incredibly high, and the cold winter weather continuing, it’s vital that households get all the support they’re entitled to.
“We would urge any households in Scotland who have a prepayment meter to check whether you have been sent a voucher and use it before it expires.
“It’s concerning that so many people have not redeemed their November vouchers and we don’t want to see a similar situation when December’s vouchers expire next month.
“If haven’t received your vouchers, you should immediately get in touch with your energy supplier or Advice Direct Scotland’s expert advisers.”

NOTES TO EDITORS

Advice Direct Scotland is a charity which runs the national advice service advice.scot. Advice is available to everyone in Scotland, at no cost, regardless of personal circumstance.

energyadvice.scot is available at www.energyadvice.scot and on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. The website also includes an online knowledge centre for Scots, with information on:

Billing and meters
Complaints and disputes
Grants and assistance
Scams and fraud
Loss of energy supply
Switching suppliers.
The Scottish House Condition Survey in 2018 found that 18 per cent of Scottish households had a prepayment meter.

Matthew Running

Account Executive

Quantum Communications

Webp.net-resizeimage (6)

Tel: 07593 888 442

www.quantumcommunications.co.uk

DRAFT MINUTES OF THE KILLEARNAN CC MEETING January 26th, 2023

Held in the Tore Public Hall – 7.00pm – 9.00pm

Present: Mr K Mackenzie, Mr A Mackay, Mr A Cameron, Mr A Brown, Mrs A C Mackay, Mr S Hudson, Cllr M MacCallum. Ms Helena Macleod.

Residents: Mrs M Mackenzie; Mrs I Rose..

Apologies: Ms F Hastie, Ms S Glenn, (Work Commitments) Cllr A Maclean, Cllr G Mackenzie, Cllr Paterson

Minutes

Mr Cameron pointed out that the name of a re-submitted planning application should read ‘Heights of Kilcoy’ not ‘Wellhouse’.

Minutes Adopted: Mr A Mackay; Mr A Cameron

Matters Arising - covered by agenda.

Correspondence: Letter from Ian Blackford MP with attached TS response (A9); Forestry Email re:culling trees in Mullans Wood.

CC reply re Mullans Wood in favour of culling for safety reasons.

Agenda

Ross Memoria Hospital – plan is for a new build for after care following surgery. Mr Kenny Rodgers, NHS Area Manage has apologised that he was now unable to come to the meeting.

Place Plan and Joint CC Meeting - to be hosted byKillearnan CC on Wednesday 15th February at 7.00pm.

Members agreed that the following items be on the agenda:

1 Place plan; 2 Police Matters; 3 A9 and connecting roads. CCs to be asked for further suggestions

.Richard Ross,Inspector, Dingwall Police, Scotland-Highland & Islands Division will attend.

Mr Nick Wright and Rebecca Richmand will also join us. See email from Rebecca below.

“Happy New Year and apologies for the delay in replying. We're switching
over emails. Please note the new email above.

Nick and I have the 15th in our diaries. The only thing I need is a
time. I'm assuming Tore Hall is the venue.

I'm now in the process of booking venues for the public consultations.
We will be holding on in each community council area and they will run
over an afternoon/evening. Subject to venues being available, these
will be held over the last 3 weeks in March - preferably 3 consultations
a week. We will be inviting CC's to send a couple of councillors to the
consultation that takes place in their area.

At the BICC meeting we will go over the timetable of how and when things
will happen. Perhaps the important thing to note, is that once the plan
is complete it will be sent to the CC's and the three councillors for a
28 day consultation. This is a statutory requirement and will give CC's
the opportunity to consult with their own residents and feed back.
Following the 28 days, the Plan will then be presented to The Highland
Council.

I've had a flurry of meetings and things to prepare recently, however, I
will be calling a meeting of the Steering group in the next couple of
weeks. Please let me know if you need anything clarifying before the CC
meeting. All the best, Becky “

CC welcomes the Muir of Ord CC members’ approach suggesting closer co-operation between neighbouring CCs.

A9 Review Etc

Ian Blackford has mailed Transport Scotland’s reply to the CC. TS state that a 40pm restriction will be established around the Tore Roundabout within the present financial year. Measures for improving NMU safety will also be implemented after consultation.

There followed a discussion of the problems associated with the A9 and adjoining roads.

a) Increasing accidents and incidents of closure of the Kessock Bridge with the resulting gridlock in the city and on connecting roads, in particular A9 north, A 832 and A835. There appeared to be a lack of strategic planning to cope with the knock-on effects. Cllr MacCallum informed members that a steering group had been set up to examine the issues. Cllr Lyndsey Johnston was a member.

b) The condition of the road surface was below standard on stretches of the A9 north towards Tore and between Alness and Invergordon.

c) The closure of the right turn north at the Munlochy Junction had increased safety at the junction but had moved the potential hazard further north to the Artepeelie/Allangrange junction nearer the Tore roundabout.This eventuality had been identified in the Forbes A9 review.

d) Removal of the central barrier would necessitate a 55-60 mph limit on a longer section of the dual carriage way.

e) Freeport in the Cromarty Firth. A major overhaul of the region’s road system must be an element of the development.

Planning Matters

1) CC should re-send the objection regarding the re-vamped planning application for a tourist amenity at Heights of Kilcoy.

2) a) Springfield Application – no update

FSL/ HC Monadh Muir Drovers Road.

Mrs Maclennan and Mrs Rose attended the meeting to discuss the issue. Mrs Rose disputes the course of the path. The line is clearly shown on successive maps. Cllr Maclean is consulting with the HC official responsible for making a decision regarding restoration. FSL are in support.

Extract from Cllr Maclean’s email “I have chased Phil Waite and have tried to contact him in the office but he is not back now until 30th January”.

We await conclusions.

Tore Hall Upgrade Project.

Ms Helena Macleod, who has been assisting the Muir of Ord Community in their projects for upgrading their public hall and town square, was invited to attend the meeting to advise the CC members and the Hall trustees in their effort to upgrade Tore Hall. She has great experience in both fund-raising and steering projects. She was a chief organiser in the Paths for All Walks which took place as part of the Black Isle Festival (recovering from the Covid shut downs!)

Ms Macleod suggested several sources of funding and agreed to assist further.

The Trustees have been successful in raising £14,500 so far in new funding. Mr Ben Williams (Community Enterprise) has completed the project statements/documents and will email them to the CC and Committee.

A detailed new survey of the condition of the electrical installations has now been received. It is hoped that repair work can begin as soon as possible.

The need for a ‘disability access’ to the Hall toilets was raised.

AOCB

1 The condition of Black Isle school buildings was discussed with particular reference to Fortrose Academy . While substantial improvements had been made to the facilities in the Gym/Technical wing and the new Tulloch Extension was a welcome addition to the campus, structural problems remain. The lack of 21st century facilities in certain primary schools was a matter of concern with regard to equality in education. Tore Primary School’s lack of a gym/social/cultural teaching space is a case in question.

2. Re: Resolis CCs’ request for advice on distributing Covid hardship funds (?) to residents. According to the weekly Zoom meetings held under the chairmanship of Cllr Adam, during the pandemic restrictions , the Black Isle Partnership was the body selected to handle distribution, along with the arrangements made by HC, Dingwall. Because a CC does not have (and should not have) access to residents’ private, personal details, it could not target aid. Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisations, such as Black Isle Cares, do have information regarding vulnerable residents. School Managements also hold sensitive details. Where possible CCs set up food banks and Knockbain CC included Killearnan residents as those entitled to use their resource. Being a rural area with no larger village or town and no SCIO, Killearnan was unable to have its own food bank. To date, the CC has received no details from BIP about the extent or range of financial assistance allocated to our area. CC will reply to Resolis with an accompanying copy of the official Covid Fund mission statement written by BIP.

3 Manuela Flueckiger (Dingwall Medical Group – a suitable date for a meeting has not yet been agreed. The CC will be informed when a date has been decided.

Meeting ended 9.00pm

Avoch and Killen CC has issued posters with advice about how to help stranded sea animals.

The next Killearnan CC meeting is on January 26th at 7.00 pm in Tore Hall. We will be joined by Mr Kenny Rodgers, NHS Area Manager, to discuss the future of the Ross Memorial.

Other items on the agenda include update on the Place Plan; items for the joint Black Isle CC meeting on February 15th; updates on Tore Hall and the Modadh Mhor Drovers Road.

DRAFT MINUTES OF THE KILLEARNAN CC MEETING NOVEMBER 24th, 2202

Held in the Tore Public Hall – 7.00pm – 9.00pm

Present: Mr K Mackenzie, Mr A Mackay, Mr A Cameron, Mr A Brown, Mrs A C Mackay, Mr S Hudson, Ms F Hastie, Ms S Glenn.

Cllr A Maclean, Cllr G Mackenzie.

Residents: Mrs M Mackenzie; Mr D Maclennan.

Apologies: Cllr M MacCallum. (Illness)

Minutes Adopted: Mr A Mackay; Mr A Cameron

Matters Arising - covered by agenda.

Correspondence: email from neighbouring CCs re Developers Contributions.Letter from Mr I Blackford MP re A9; email from SSEN. email from Eelco de Long (Planning Forester) re Revision of the Black Isle Management Plan.

Agenda

Joint CC Meeting (Fortrose Wed 16). Attended by Mrs A Mackay & Mr A Mackay

Issues discussed

I) Place Plan. Cllr S Atkin spoke at the joint meeting to persuade CCs of the benefits in joining in the discussions with the organiser, Rebecca Richmond - despite reservations concerning BIP involvement.

b) Concern over continuous low level sound and vibration emissions from Neptune Project activity off Cromarty

c) Large scale Springfield development project at Tore re Black Residents as a whole. CCs asked for planning details to be sent to them and agreed to circulate the information to residents. The need to be involved in planning concerns which affect whole areas was stated.

Place Plan - Killearnan Involvement

Ms S Glenn (Killearnan representative) was introduced to members present. She explained the basic nature of the Place plan. Government advice was still quite vague but basically the emphasis was on land usage and a community’s priorities in this respect. Quotes from Government Documents:-

“14 Text Box 1 sets out which organisations are defined by the legislation to be Community Bodies for the purpose of local place planning. Broadly speaking, the definition covers established community councils, and bodies[4] which must have a written constitution, but may not necessarily be incorporated

.Proposal as to the development or use of land

18. Sometimes new buildings, changes to the use and appearance of existing buildings, and other changes in the way land is used are needed. These activities are called 'development'. The planning system makes decisions about future development and the use of land in our towns, cities and countryside. It decides where development should happen, where it should not and how development affects its surroundings.

19. Though not an exhaustive list, examples of what could be considered as development or use of land which might feature in a Local Place Plan could include things like:

sites which support climate change adaptation, such as renewable energy or flood mitigation;

local initiatives for the promotion of active travel and community food growing;

sites for housing, including for affordable housing, new or retained local employment or new tourism/community facilities;

retaining, improving, and expanding quality open space and green/blue infrastructure and play facilities;

conservation of the natural/built environment;

improvements in the town/neighbourhood centre; support for a national development, as featured in the National Planning Framework.”

Ms Glenn confirmed that the drafting of the plan would be undertaken by Mr Nick Wright who has an excellent record in the field. It was agreed that Ms Rebecca Richmond and Mr Wright be invited to address members at the next joint CC meeting in February 2023.

The upgrading of Tore Hall both as an essential community centre and an emergency hub has been included in the list of priorities. Other ideas were also being considered. For instance, Ms Glenn advises keeping lines of communication open with Springfield Inc regarding their plans for development of the farm land which they have recently purchased in the Tore area.

A9 Review

Ian Blackford has written to Transport Scotland and Highland Council for reports and will get back to us when he receives a reply.

The 40pm restriction will be established around the Tore Roundabout (possibly within the perimeter indicated by the Tore roadsigns.)

There was a reference to Highland Council’s bid for a Freeport in the Cromarty Firth. A Uk Government decision was awaited. If a Freeport was established a major overhaul of the region’s road system would be an element of the development.

Planning Matters

1) The CC has been informed of a new appeal regarding a planning application for a tourist amenity at Wellhouse.

2) a) Springfield Application

Objections have been submitted regarding Springfield’s application for planning permission in principle for a retail/commercial park at Tore, including an hotel, drive-through and park and ride.

a)The area is not zoned for development in the present IMFLD Plan

b) Muir of Ord CC has expressed concerns about the consequences for all traffic on the A832, affecting Muir of Ord commuters.

c) Traffic Scotland has asked for an extension of the planning consultation period.

d) The present infrastructure could not support a development on such a scale: lack of sewer; inadequacy of Tore Roundabout, MunlochyJunction as set out in the WSP report; A832 towardsTore and through Tore village; present power and water supplies.

e Residents travelling to and from all the communities in the Black Isle would be impacted.

f) Ward 8 Elected Members do not support the project.

FSL and existing Monadh Muir path.

Email from Eelco de Long (Planning Forester) concerns the revision of the Black Isle Managment Plan, a long term project. The email and poster also ask for residents’ views about the value of the forest walk. A consultation meeting will take place in Munlochy Hall, December Ist at 7.00 pm. Killearnan CC plans to send a representative.

Police Reports The CC had not had a report for a considerable time. Cllr Mackenzie pointed out that the practice of having a police representative attend meetings was no longer feasible but reports should be received by Ccs. He would follow up. The increase in drug crime in the area (County Lines etc) was referenced.

Drover’s Road. Ms Margaret Mackenzie submitted a paper (attached ) which traces the history of the ROW as a right of way. .One resident’s more recent building and storage of machinery is obstructing a small section of the right of way. A wide ranging discussion of the plan took place.

Points raise: a) Essential to have evidence of use of claimed right of way in cases where landowners have intruded on an established right of way. (Cllr Mackenzie) The Form is obtainable from Highland Council).b) Residents in Ferintosh are interested in re-opening the path; c) Most of the path is accessible; d) Mr Philip Waite of FSL supports the plan and has written to the land owner. FSl willing to assist in removal of vegetation etc where necessary. e) an earlier request to re-open the right of way was not followed up by FC (A Cameron)

SSEN and Emergency Power Outages. (Notes from Teams Meeting attached)

The political situation affecting European gas supplies which help to power UK power stations has resulted in emergency plans being drawn up, involving managed rolling outages.

Essentially SSEN has 800,000 users in Highland, divided into 18 zones. Rural areas inevitably will have less support.Answer to a question asked by Killearnan Secretary is in the email below:-

“Hi there,

It was great to meet you today on the event – thank you for joining and for you question.

I’m conscious you’re meeting tonight, so wanted to pop across some advice for winter readiness.

We’ve recently updated our advice at Preparing for a power cut - SSEN which provides advice on how to prepare for a power cut. Although these things are more focused on what individuals can do to prepare, they’re very helpful and take a lot of stress out of the situation.

Regarding the support we would offer, specifically during an adverse weather event like we saw last winter. Our Priority Services team have a welfare framework they work to which involves identifying areas that need support during a power cut. Although it can’t be guaranteed, we do have a large fleet and support network of welfare units that we dispatch during these large events. These provide hot food and drinks, and charging facilities for mobile phones too.

My biggest piece of advice would be to join the Priority Services Register at Priority services - SSEN – being on the register has lots of benefits, but also means we keep in touch a little more too. These customers can also receive things like welfare packs (which have helpful resources like hand warmers if needed).

I’m interested in your application for funding from us and more on why it was rejected. When you get a moment, could you send over you application or information you received from us so I can track it all down. I want to look at if there’s something we can do to support your community specifically.

Furthermore, I’ll get in touch with your local relationship manager and pass your details along. She’ll likely want to help too and could perhaps attend one of your community council meetings to talk more.

If you have any further questions that I wasn’t able to answer, feel free to send them back to me.

Take care and many thanks,

Troy Fisher Customer Experience Manager Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks
Walton Park, Walton Road, Portsmouth, PO6 1UJ

Cllr Maclean confirmed that Highland Council has copies of the SSEN Home Advice Document. She brought a copy to the meeting.

Cllr MacCallum. Members wish her a speedy recovery.

Newsletter October

A9 Roundabout and Crossing.

Public concern is growing because there has been no sign that the safety recommendations of the WSP/Forbes Review will be implemented. The volume of traffic continues to increase and there have been several incidents this year: vehicles crashing onto the roundabout; near misses; long tail-backs onto the A835 & A832. Vehicles are still travelling at high speeds and overtaking to the endangerment of anyone using the uncontrolled pedestrian crossing. The CC has sent letters to our elected representatives (MPs & MSP) raising the matter.

Killearnan Community (Tore) Hall. Update

There have been several meetings between the Trustees, Community Enterprise and other authorities for the purpose of raising funding to overhaul the electric wiring and upgrade the Hall’s electric installations to be more economic and carbon neutral. Several funding sources have been approached. SSEN’s delayed response to the Hall’s application for funding held up the start of work on improving the wiring for several months. Unfortunately, after our wait, SSEN failed to provide funding.

Highland Council and our councillors are being kept informed of developments.

The Tore Primary Parent Council has prepared a statement expressing the importance of the venue to the wellbeing of the pupils. See statement overleaf.

Community Enterprise is extending the deadline for its survey of residents’ views. Here is the link: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ToreHallDevelopment

A posse of local ladies has offered to undertake spring-cleaning once the repairs to the wiring have been completed. If you can help in any way towards the re-opening of our Hall for the community it will be much appreciated. Just get in touch either by Email: killearnanccouncil2@gmail.com or torehall22@gmail.com

Joint Black Isle CC Meetings.

Scottish Government Place Planning/Funding Initiative.

KCC has joined the other CCs in preparing a list of priorities for the Black Isle. These include: 1 Infrastructure and Development - Amount of development has added pressure on amenities:schools, road infrastructure etc. Group approach– CCs to be involved in planning before decisions are taken. 2 Roads Physical condition – danger to local drivers and visiting tourists. Rural Area – lack of adequate public transport means residents must rely on own vehicles. Adds to isolation.Transport provision. Must plan to allow safe access to services. Generally support green energy agenda but the rural inhabitants have been increasingly denied access to essential services such as medical centres; banks, post offices, leisure facilities. 3 Education Infrastructure Old stock, crumbling buildings. 4 Housing –Pressure, locally, enormous – increase in people moving into the area. Locals priced out of accommodation both homeowning and rental. Young people having to leave area. AirB&B adding to problem. Need review of how housing is delivered. 5. Social Care.Large population of people who have moved into the area on retirement – then develop health problems associated with age over-whelming care provision in BI. 6 Tourism. Highly sought after location ( dolphins, caravan parks etc) Common factors with other issues. Lack of adequate facilities. N500 adding to the pressure. Ms Shona Gunn is representing this CC on the Black Isle Place Planning Group. SEE FULL MINUTES on the Killearnan CC Website.

Drones

There are increased reports of drones invading the privacy of residents in the area by carrying out aerial surveys. Are you being buzzed?

Tore Primary School Parent Council Statement

To whom it may concern,

The Tore Village Hall is an incredibly valuable asset to the local community, not least the Local Primary school, that we represent as a Parent Council. Sitting at the centre of the small village, it serves as a hub for multiple community events run by both the school and the Parent Council, and without the ability to use it, both have suffered hardship in a multitude of ways – lack of sports education, community fundraising events, social gatherings and so on. As parents, we are keen for our small school to be able to provide a varied and diverse education to our children, but unfortunately, without the hall, they are restricted in doing this. Staff have no indoor physical exercise space that is useable, and with the continued decline in weather over the winter months, this is a serious concern for all involved. Pupils also have no space with which to perform and present to parents; a exercise that is greatly missed both from a production and receiving point of view. Funding would greatly help the community rebuild the outdated sections of the interior and ensure that prolonged and efficient use of the premises can continue for many years to come.

DRAFT MINUTES OF KILLEARNAN CC MEETING SEPTEMBER 6th 2022

Present: K Mackenzie, A C Mackay, A Cameron, A Brown, A P Mackay, S Hudson, T. McMorran, F Hastie (text to say delayed), Cllr M MacCallum.

Apologies: Ben Williams; S Gunn; Cllrs. S Aitkin, S Kennedy, G Mackenzie, M Paterson.

Minutes: Adopted. A Cameron; A.P. Mackay

Matters Arising – on agenda;

Correspondence: Highland Council Planning Application: Broadlands 14 Houses; Re Place Based Funding/Planning Ward8 & Ward 9 & BIP;Tore Primary School Let

Agenda

1 Broadlands 14 Houses. Permission granted. Issues regarding A835 access, sewage disposal and safety of primary school pupils remain unresolved.

2 Tore Hall Update

Ms T McMorran: Our application to SSEN was unsuccessful. We are now applying to the ward discretionary fund for half of the amount required and the rest will come out of the hall’s bank account.

We have asked the electrician to let us know when he can make a start. Costs in the region of £9000.

The problem that caused the leak has been fixed but the taps in the toilets have seized and will need replacing.

Alfie a local plumber has done the work and will replace the taps in due course. There maybe a small bill for the work.

Mairie has found a group to donate the children’s resources to and will be moving their stuff out soon.

We have had an energy expert in to discuss environmentally friendly ways to hear the hall but they did not come up with any good suggestions so we will be continuing to seek advice

Ben Williams has put an application in for some funding to help the hall move forward

He has also produced a survey so we can collect opinions and a press release so we can let as many people know as possible where we are with the hall and what the plans may be for the future.

Next step will be to get the electrician in to start the repairs. Get the performance license and start letting the hall again.

The books are due to go to the accountants at the end of August. There is £14,216.60 in the account. Electrician has not been paid for the initial inspection £400

Email from Mr B Williams: “Please see my update to the meeting for this evening - I have pulled together a list of potential funders for the Hall, which may be worth consideration, some of which you were aware of already. Attached for information.

I can also update that the survey has now had 35 responses and is continuing to rise - please can we continue to push and share this as much as possible? I have shared this again on Social Media Today. The majority are in support and 3 people would like to join or help your committee... I will analyse the full results once we have closed the survey, but here is a flavour:”

A Cameron: some problem with entering options on Survey webpage.

Cllr McCallum is to contact other electrical firms for estimates etc

A group of volunteers is being assembled to clean up the hall and garden once the electrical work has been completed.

Update to be included in the Newsletter.

3 Place Based Funding/Planning Ward 8 & Ward 9 & BIP

Appointment of Ms S Gunn as Killearnan CC representative on BIP Group is confirmed – Proposed: A Cameron; Seconded A Brown

Report from Ms S Gunn of meeting with Becky Richmond and BIP on Monday 5th Septermber.

“ As you know the Black Isle Partnership has been awarded funding by the Highland Council to coordinate the delivery of a Place Plan for the Black Isle.

Once agreed the Place Plan will become part of the formal planning hierarchy, which means the Highland Council will need to have regard to it when making planning decisions for the area. Ensuring the priorities of Black Isle residents are well represented is therefore a good way of making sure community priorities are properly reflected in local decisions.

The BIP have appointed a project manager (Becky) to manage the process, who has set up a steering group to help her and provide oversight of the process.

The intention is for the group to appoint consultants to undertake a community consultation exercise, which will then be used as the basis for delivering the plan.

The focus of this evening's meeting was to start fleshing out the detail of the brief for the consultants. The intention is to finalise this over the next week or so before issuing it to a short list of potential consultants. We expect it will take around a month to get a consultant appointed. The community consultation exercise will then be delivered between October and December with the final plan to be completed by the end of February.

So far Killearnan is one of three community councils represented on the group. One other CC has indicated a desire to be involved but the other four have so far decided not to participate. The group agreed that it would be preferable to have input from all the community councils if possible so Becky is going to continue to keep them updated throughout the process with the hope that they may decide to get involved at a later date. Any encouragement we can provide in this respect would be welcomed.

I think that's the main points to report for now but will continue to keep you posted on progress.”

Joint Black Isle CCs Meeting -List of Priorities

1 Infrastructure and Development

Amount of development has added pressure on amenities:schools, road infrastructure etc. Group approach– CCs to be involved in planning before decisions are taken.

2 Roads Physical condition – danger to local drivers and visiting tourists.

Rural Area – lack of adequate public transport means residents must rely on own vehicles. Adds to

isolation.Transport provision. Must plan to allow safe access to services. Generally support green

energy agenda but the rural inhabitants have been increasingly denied access to essential services such as medical centres; banks, post offices, leisure facilities.

3 Education Infrastructure

Old stock, crumbling buildings acro. Plan for next ten (?) years to provide new school buildings.

Recognise scale of challenge.

4 Housing –Pressure, locally, enormous – increase in people moving into the area. Locals priced out of accommodation both homeowning and rental. Young people having to leave area. AirB&B adding to problem. Need review of how housing is delivered.

5. Social Care.

Large population of people who have moved into the area on retirement – then develop health problems associated with age over-whelming care provision in BI.

6 Tourism. Highly sought after location ( dolphins, caravan parks etc) Common factors with other issues. Lack of adequate facilities. N500 adding to the pressure without bringing much benefit to the area.

3 Dovers Road Update

Group has met with FLS representative. FLS supportive. Area surveyed. Most of path accessible. Problem regarding section of encroachment by a local landowner. Philip Waite, HC Outdoor Access,Long Distance Route Manager, has been involved in consultations. FLS should have details of route listed on Land Holding Register. Residents keen to re-establish the path.

AOCB

a) Tore Primary School Let

School is no longer available for our CC meetings! We were offered Kessock Hall (in Knockbain)!

Councillors looking into the situation.

b) Forbes A9 Survey. No sign of introduction of new speed limits or further improvements. The closures, tailbacks and build up of traffic caused by recent incidents affirm the importance of the A9 stretch between the Kessock Bridge and the Tore Roundabout to the Highland economy. MPs, MSPs and HC to be urged (again) to take action.

c) Members share the national concern over unaffordable rises in fuel costs. Effect on schools, libraries and other council buildings highlighted. As SSE (part of OVO) has a monopoly in the Highlands, residents of Killearnan have no other option for their electrical supply.

Meeting closed at 8.45 pm

Tore Hall Update

Community Enterprise Ltd, a community development specialist, has been appointed to work alongside the group and work is now underway.

"The new hall committee is making every effort to restore to the residents of Killearnan and the wider community their much valued public gathering place which has served so many aspects of community life for well over 80 years. Please help us in our endeavour, if you can"

The new Tore Hall Committee is conducting consultations with the community to ensure that the project meets the needs of residents and other user groups. The group are looking to capture views on the changes that will make the ‘Tore Hall’ into the best possible asset it can be for the whole community. An open online survey is available at:

https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ToreHallDevelopment

Draft Minutes of the Killearnan Community Council Ordinary Meeting June 2nd 2022. Held in Killearnan Public Hall at 7.30pm.

Present

Mr K Mackenzie (Chair)

Mr A.P. Mackay (Treasurer)

Mrs A.C.Mackay (Secretary)

Mr A. Cameron

Mr A Brown

Ms F Hastie

Ben Williams (Community Enterprise)

Rev Susan Cord

Mrs T McMorran

Ms S Glenn

Mr S Glenn

Miss S Bain

Cllr M Paterson

Cllr S Kennedy

Cllr M McCallum

Cllr L Johnston

Apologies

Cllr G. Mackenzie

Cllr A Maclean

Cllr S Atkin

Mr S Hudson (With Scout Team lighting Platinum Jubilee Beacon at Knockfarrell.)

AGENDA

Mr Mackenzie welcomed the new counsellors and Ms S Glenn. Introductions all round.

Ms S Glenn agreed to join the CC as a co-opted member.

Minutes of the Last Meeting: Adopted: A Brown. A Mackay

Correspondence:

The following items were circulated: Letter from Kate Forbes office re: Tore Roundabout and Pedestrian Crossing; Why a Public Hall is Essential (Wanda Mackay Hi-Life Highland); Draft Killearnan Emergency Plan (prepared by A Mackay and F Hastie. Mr Hudson is to send minor additions by email); minutes of the recent BICC meeting hosted by Ferintosh CC.

1 Reopening Tore Hall

A Mackay introduced the discussion by describing the many community events held in the Hall over its 80 years existence.

Mr Ben Williams referred to the Zoom meeting with Rev Susan Cord and Anne Mackay and described the ways in which Community Enterprise could assist the committee and CC: applying for funding; action planning; publicity.

Mrs T McMorran gave an update regarding repairs to the basic electric installation, estimate of costs and the funding already sought from SSEN. The Investment in Communities Scot Gov Fund had just opened and an application is in progress. Closing date June 28th. The committee will apply to the IC fund to finance the modernising of the Hall’s lighting, heating systems in eco-friendly ways as well as fitting the now required type of fire alarms and connecting to the NET . Councillors expressed their support. Thanks to Fortrose Academy for photo-copying and digitising the Hall’s original Charter document.

A Mackay stressed how essential the use of the Hall is to Tore Primary School and the function it will serve as an emergency hub – an amenity Killearnan lacked during the pandemic. OSCR had been informed of the changes to the Trustees. Mr A Brown would now be the main contact with OSCR. The Hall charity was now a member of SCVO.

Other sources of funding suggested: Community Ownership Fund. Ms S Glenn and Cllr Johnston encouraged members to ‘think big’ when considering improvements for the Hall and applying for funding. Cllr Johnston suggested offering a ‘rent a desk’ facility’ for people working from home. Carrying out a survey of residents’ ideas for hall use was suggested using free platforms such as Survey Monkey. The CC Newsletter had included a brief survey seeking residents views and several people had replied, indicating their support and listing a range of uses,

A9 Kessock Bridge to Tore Roundabout

A letter received from Mr Perry (TS) re:A9 Tore Roundabout and pedestrian crossing indicates an intention to install an improved speed limit on roads leading to the roundabout as well as to ensure safety on pedestrian and cycling routes as recommended in the WSP/TS Final report. The email from Kate Forbes’ office in reply to the CC’s concerns, reflects similar recommendations. Yet, none of these improvements have been put in place.

The Tore area urgently needs a reduction in the speed limit round the roundabout and a controlled crossing so that pedestrians can access public transport in safety.

Residents described their various experiences of encountering danger on the crossing when trying to access public transport. It was for this reason that residents tend to opt for personal rather than public transport, thus, inevitably, adding to global warming. Not only pedestrians face hazards but cyclists also have to cross the A9 on the official cycle route. The south bound carriageway was most commented on by residents because two lanes of heavy traffic accelerate away from the roundabout (50 years away) at speed. Pupils exiting the school bus during the rush hour are particularly at risk. Cllr McCallum suggested that this risk might be reduced, as it had been during her school days, by having the bus omit the Tore bus-stop and, after continuing on to North Kessock, return to Tore by the north bound carriage. This adds 20 minutes to the pupils’ journey but would reduce the risk of accident. Cllr McCallum offered to approach the school authority.

The volume of traffic has increased significantly over the last 20 years during which planning permission has been granted to numerous housing developments from which residents inevitably use cars to access work and amenities. Ms S Glenn mentioned the ‘developers contribution’ monies intended to improve the areas in which the developments are sited. There was little evidence that such finance had been directed at improving the road infrastructure. The A9 is a trunk road and therefore the responsibility of the Scottish Government. A flourishing tourist industry has added to the increase in traffic as has the much advertised N500. Tourist drivers are often unfamiliar with the hazards at the Munlochy Junction, Crossing and Roundabout and do not know to take the extra precautions residents employ.

Transport Scotland officers are aware that all traffic issuing from north of Inverness converges on a roundabout which has 5 main roads radiating from it. The traffic then surges across the pedestrian crossing and on to the complex Artefallie/Munlochy Junction where fatalities have already occurred.

It was cynically observed that the Road authority appears to wait for deaths before taking any action, evidenced by the struggle to get an underpass to North Kessock village.

Kate Forbes independent review has been welcomed as a thorough examination of the lack of safety on the stretch of the A9 between the bridge and the roundabout. However so far only street lighting has been installed at the junction. Residents point out that the benefit of lighting is limited in that most accidents have taken place in daylight, including those involving deaths. The design of the junction is still the fundamental problem. The part played by winter/spring low sunlight impeding drivers’vision on parts of the carriageway was also raised as a further reason for reducing the speed limit from the bridge to the roundabout.

The most recent MFLDP appears to have taken into consideration the necessity to improve infrastructures before more housing developments can be sanctioned. Councillors recognise the issues and support the need for improvement.

BICC Meeting in Culbokie.

Mr Rory Mair attended the meeting. Members found his advice for Community Councils extremely useful. He pointed out the benefit of taking a united approach to issues which affect the whole of the Black Isle and suggested that a list of five or so main concerns should be agreed. Road infrastructure/ condition was an agreed priority in the light of the amount of new housing in the Black Isle.

Mr Mair advised that concerns be expressed as desired outcomes rather than making repeated suggestions as to how the outcome might be achieved. Financing and successfully delivering an outcome was the responsibility and main purpose of the paid Local Authority officials and elected representatives. The process should be a collaborative effort.

At the present meeting, Cllr L Johnston also stressed the need for CCs to express proposals as ‘outcomes’ and this was echoed by Ms Glenn’s advice.

Emergency Plan.

F Hastie’s experience as a coastguard officer has been especially beneficial in drafting the plan: identifying possible sources of emergency and detailing methods of coping. The plan is in draft form.

Monadh Mhor Drovers Road.

The path has been surveyed. Only a small stretch requires attention. FLS have no objections to the road’s restoration but could not fund maintenance. Residents of Ferintosh are interested in restoring the road. A Brown agreed to join the sub-committee as the drover road is in the vicinity of his residence.

The AGM is planned for June 2nd in Tore Hall at 7.00. All welcome

Come and meet the new councillors and make your concerns known! Items on the agenda include: the dangerous A9 Tore Pedestrian Crossing; re-opening Tore Hall for the community; drafting an Emergency Plan for the Area; a report of the latest joint Black Isle Councils meeting and further items residents wish to air in person.

TORE PUBLIC HALL UPDATE

The Hall is a Registered Charity - Number SC001459

The new committee members - Andy Brown, Tracy McMorran, Anne Mackay, Ben Sharp (Acting Primary Head), Rev Susan Cord and associate,Louise Marshall aim:-

1 to return the use of the Hall to Killearnan Residents, the Local Primary School and the wider community after a closure of more than two years.

2 to upgrade the amenity to meet the needs of a modern community.

The Hall trustees hold the charter by which the land was granted to the community of Killearnan by the Fraser-Mackenzie family in 1936. In part, the establishment of the hall was as a memorial to local lives lost in the First World War. The official opening took place in 1937 and in the early years the building was in much use as a drill hall. Over the decades, it has been used as a venue for church services, christenings, Sunday schools, parties, toddler groups, dances, concerts, protest meetings, as a polling station, as a practice room for local musicians and highland dance groups, as a place to meet for martial arts and badminton enthusiasts, the WRI, Gardening and Archaeological Societies, Art Classes, Whist Drives, Fund Raising events, Galas….

For Tore Primary School, it has provided an essential space for PE and cultural activities.

Unfortunately, an in-depth electrical inspection has shown that the Hall needs extensive re-wiring and advises that the out-dated, uneconomic heaters be replaced.

To finance the work, the committee will apply to the Scottish Government’s Investing in Communities Fund. Highland Council will support the application.

We also need the support of the local community and ask you to show this by responding to the following 2 questions, via our email:

1 Do you think the village hall is an asset to the local community?

2 What benefits does it provide for our residents and the wider community?

The email address is: tor

TORE PUBLIC HALL

A new committee is in place to facilitate the re-opening of the Hall. Members: Andy Brown, racy McMorran, Anne Mackay, Ben Sharp (ToreSchool), Rev Cord.

email: torehall22@gmail.com

HOMES FOR UKRA

Case nUnder surveillance.

Ukraine Appeal Ukraine Aid

Killearnan CC has received the email below urging residents to support Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Te-aM 6 Grant Street
Inverness
IV3 8BL
Thomas@te-am.co.uk
07849 479 161
Dear Friends, Colleagues, Business Owners, Managers, Fellow Citizens!
Many of us have families and friends across the world, and many of them live in Ukraine.
We need to be ambassadors of human lives, democracy and freedom!
We need to help those who have lost it all, who have lost their health, their homes, their communities, who
have lost their beloved ones, who have lost hope!
I ask you to unite and help the Ukraine! We can help people survive and recover. We can help them live.
Following my recent contact with the Polish Red Cross (PCK) in Lublin, supporting both Ukrainian refugees as
well as those still in their country, there are a number of items that would make a massive difference to those
in need. These items are as follows:
TOILETRIES AND HOUSEHOLD
Shower gels, shampoos, soap, tooth brushes and toothpaste, deodorant, feminine hygiene products,
nappies, washing up liquid, washing powder/liquid...
1ST AID ITEMS
Dressings, sterile gauze, sterile bandages, compression bandages, tubular bandages, thermal blankets, saline
ampules, disinfectants, disposable gloves, sterile dressings, tourniquets, scissors, plasters...
MEDICINE
Paracetamol, children's paracetamol, ibuprofen, cream for burns, antiseptic cream
NEW BLANKETS AND NEW SLEEPING BAGS
DISPOSABLE TABLEWARE.
Disposable knives, forks, spoons, teaspoons, plates bowls, cups.
I called the Polish Red Cross again today for the latest information. The greatest demand this afternoon is for
dressings and medicine, as well as blankets, sleeping bags and disposable tableware.
Together, I believe we can pool our strength and organise as much as possible in a short time. Time is life. I am
asking you to help me gather the necessary items, so we can send them to the front line support networks.
TIME
MATTERS!
EVERY LIFE
MATTERS!
UKRAINE
MATTERS!
Over the next couple of days I will be working on the logistics and transportation of the goods so that we can
have them delivered to the Polish Red Cross in Lublin and help the PCK save lives.
Please support me in this journey by donating the above items in wholesale quantities, by helping to finance
the transport and all the additional needs.
I am available on my mobile 07849479161 and email thomas@te-am.co.uk so please do phone, text, email
me and let’s get the ball rolling.
Thank you!
Thomas
Thomas Machnik

Donations can be made at Inverness Cathedral.

Calling All Residents of Killearnan.

The CC is trying to re-open our Community Hall in Tore which has been closed for nearly three years. This vital amenity should be restored to the community.

A meeting has been arranged between the retired committee and a temporary committee to get the process started. Meeting to be held in the hallat 7.00pm on February 8th. Please show up to support the endeavour.

January CC Meeting Minutes

Teams Meeting of Killearnan CC 20th January 2022: Draft Minutes.

Present: K Mackenzie, A C Mackay, A Mackay, A Cameron A Brown, F Hastie; Cllrs G.Adam, A. Maclean, M. Paterson. Guest H.Macleod.

The start of the meeting was delayed on account of an unexpected glitch on Microsoft Teams which allowed particpants to join but prevented the host from communicating with participants. The problem was partially resolved by emailing Microsoft and receiving a new code.

Correspondence : Di Agnew emails (Covid updates, funding opportunities); emails: Forum meetings -Jan 24 & Jan 31.

Minutes of the previous meeting adopted: A Cameron, A Mackay

Agenda

1. Re-opening Killearnan (Tore) Hall. The Hall committee had resigned the year before the Pandemic. The Pandemic had also necessitated the closure of the Hall. The CC is making it a priority to restore this most valuable asset to the community. Mrs T Mcmorran (Kilcoy Nursery) has offered her assistance; Mrs A Gammie (Secretary of the previous committee) has agree to supply the necessary documents and information. The CC plans to apply for funding to facilitate the re-opening. It is hoped that the Hall can be open for the community well in time for the coming Platinum Jubilee celebrations. An emergency committee is to be convened. A Brown has agreed to act as Chair, A.C Mackay as temporary secretary and, possibly, T Macmorran as Treasurer (subject to her agreement).

The councillors expressed their full support.

2. Restoration of the Drover Road between Monadh Mhor and Moss End.

The old path is already being used and residents in both Killearnan and Ferintosh have expressed a willingness to help to reopen the road for the public. FLS has responded favourably to the CCs’ approach regarding the re-opening. Ms H Macleod gave the meeting valuable information about similar projects in the Highland Area and offered her support in advancing Killearnan’s plan and securing the necessary funding. Mr A Cameron and other CC members will liaise further. Mrs A Mackay will contact the various sources of funding.The councillors expressed their support for the project.

3. MFLDP & Springfield PLC’s Plan

Cllr Adam pointed out that HC Planners had not included the development in the current MFLDP as a major development was unviable owing to the problems associated with the lack of adequate infrastructure in the area.

There was a clash between the Black Isle Joint CC Forum scheduled for February 3rd and Springfield’s further consultation planned for the same evening. CC had already agreed to join the BICC forum before receiving the notification from the developers. It was agreed to ask the developers to arrange a meeting at a later date and preferably to hold an actual public meeting in Killearnan. Mrs Mackay was asked to inform the Springfield Team and Cllr A Maclean will also contact them.

4. BICC Forum. The virtual meeting will be hosted by Ferintosh CC. A substantial part of the meeting will be devoted to a talk by Mr D Jones (Head of Planning) who will explain HC Planning’s current approaches in order to assist CC in their constitutional responsibilities in responding to planning matters.

AOCB

a)A 9 Review. Lighting is being installed at the Munlochy Junction and new speed restrictions are expected at the Roundabout.

b) Lighting is needed at Tore Hall. Cats eyes and Tore sign are missing.

c) Finance Update

Mrs Mackay sent a Christmas thankyou of chocolates and oranges to Tore Pupils for their

resilience during the Pandemic. Part of cost to CC - £5. £20 expenses in Newsletter distribution.

d) Summer Festival at Tore Hall? To reunite the Community?

Meeting finished at 8.32pm.

Stained Glass Window in Tore Primary School showing aspects of Killesarnan life past and present		Our heritage