Minutes of Meeting of Biggar Community Council
17 March 2025 Venue: Biggar Library. Time 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Present: Jimmy Ritchie (Chair), Lesley Craise (Treasurer), Roger Curtis (Secretary). Laura Shirley, Councillor McAllan, Gillian Gardner, Caz Alcorn, Fionna Miskelly,
Apologies: Ben Wayne, Councillor Barker, Neil Ingram (see item 6b), Councillor Allison
4 members of the public were present
3a) Approved. Proposed by Lesley Craise, Seconded by Gillian Gardner
5b) Jim Duncan – put forward a suggestion that Biggar have a “Day of The Dead” event similar to that held in South America. It was explained that this would have to be put forward the SLC. It was suggested by Lesley Craise and Caz Alcorn that he talk to Iona Goldie.
6b) Local Development Plan – Neil Ingram is attending a meeting on zoom at the moment.
CALLS
Total Number Calls to Police Scotland for this area: 21 calls.
None of the calls or offences recorded relate to anything that presents a direct risk to the wider
public.
CRIMES
A total of 2 crimes were recorded for the area.
OFFENCE TYPES
0 - Dishonesty (thefts, shoplifting)
1 – anti social offences (S.38, public nuisance, neighbour complaints)
0 – Crimes against Society (Breach of Bail, Breach ASBO, Drugs)
0 – Violence (assault)
1 – Damage & Reckless Behaviour (vandalism, wilful fire raising)
0 – Road Traffic
0 - Miscellaneous
Partnership working continues with Biggar High School, Social Work Dept, Housing and antisocial
behaviour teams to help tackle any issues brought to our attention.
8b) The Post Office sorting Office will not be closing.
8c) The not parking on pavements is to be enforced
8d) As a result of the January 24th storm, the safety of trees inspection is progressing and the replacement of road signs is continuing.
17/03/ 2025
Business Account £326.93
Clyde Windfarm £563.4
Incentive Account £1165.48
Of which
£346.52 (Incentive)
£387.6 (Glenkerie)
£ 431.36 (Clyde Extension)
Fiona requested that we have another meeting with David McMunn the Business Manager, Biggar Medical Practice. The Secretary will arrange.
13b) Ann Wilson asked that I bring to the Community Council the issue of litter, especially on the left as you approach the Primary School. The councillor to inform the appropriate Council Department and Caz agreed to inform Biggar Blitzers.
14. Date of Next Meeting 14/4/25
Minutes of Meeting of Biggar Community Council
17 March 2025 Venue: Biggar Library. Time 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Present: Jimmy Ritchie (Chair), Lesley Craise (Treasurer), Roger Curtis (Secretary). Laura Shirley, Councillor McAllan, Gillian Gardner, Caz Alcorn, Fionna Miskelly,
Apologies: Ben Wayne, Councillor Barker, Neil Ingram (see item 6b), Councillor Allison
4 members of the public were present
3a) Approved. Proposed by Lesley Craise, Seconded by Gillian Gardner
5b) Jim Duncan – put forward a suggestion that Biggar have a “Day of The Dead” event similar to that held in South America. It was explained that this would have to be put forward the SLC. It was suggested by Lesley Craise and Caz Alcorn that he talk to Iona Goldie.
6b) Local Development Plan – Neil Ingram is attending a meeting on zoom at the moment.
CALLS
Total Number Calls to Police Scotland for this area: 21 calls.
None of the calls or offences recorded relate to anything that presents a direct risk to the wider
public.
CRIMES
A total of 2 crimes were recorded for the area.
OFFENCE TYPES
0 - Dishonesty (thefts, shoplifting)
1 – anti social offences (S.38, public nuisance, neighbour complaints)
0 – Crimes against Society (Breach of Bail, Breach ASBO, Drugs)
0 – Violence (assault)
1 – Damage & Reckless Behaviour (vandalism, wilful fire raising)
0 – Road Traffic
0 - Miscellaneous
Partnership working continues with Biggar High School, Social Work Dept, Housing and antisocial
behaviour teams to help tackle any issues brought to our attention.
17/03/ 2025
Business Account £326.93
Clyde Windfarm £563.4
Incentive Account £1165.48
Of which
£346.52 (Incentive)
£387.6 (Glenkerie)
£431.36 (Clyde Extension)
Fiona requested that we have another meeting with David McMunn the Business Manager, Biggar Medical Practice. The Secretary will arrange.
13b) Ann Wilson asked that I bring to the Community Council the issue of litter, especially on the left as you approach the Primary School. The councillor to inform the appropriate Council Department and Caz agreed to inform Biggar Blitzers.
14. Date of Next Meeting 14/4/25
Minutes of Meeting of Biggar Community Council
17 February 2025 Venue: Biggar Library. Time 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Present: Jimmy Ritchie (Chair), Lesley Craise (Treasurer), Roger Curtis (Secretary). Laura Shirley, Councillor McAllan, Councillor Allison, Neil Ingram, Gillian Gardner
Apologies: , Ben Wayne, Fionna Miskelly, Caz Alcorn, Councillor Barker
6 members of the public were present
Biggar Public Park
1. the Golf Club has given permission to run both the Golf Club and Caravan Park.
2. Concerning the Business Park the following letter from Councilor Ralph Barker was read out:
"Given concerns that the change of use planning application would result in the eviction of the present commercial;/industrial users and that it was claimed there were no alternative sites local to Biggar I moved for refusal but did not get a seconder.
I did ask in committee that any applicant could apply for change of use but existing occupiers could not apply to retain present uses – correct, so now a change of use is consented the existing occupiers could apply for change of use back? It seemed so.
Kind Regards
Councillor Ralph Barker
Ward 3 Clydesdale East”
2. Closure of footpath from North Back Road to Hope Gardens – the following letter from Councilor Barker was read
"The land containing the path from Hope Gardens was consented under delegated powers for change of use and stopping up the path in 2022. Biggar CC objected but the objection was disregarded by planners under delegated powers. I still have a poor opinion of the process and only Biggar CC comes out of it with any honour. The path was actually only stopped up at the end of 2024. Constituents have complained. It increases the walking distance by up to 158 metres and is now more dangerous for children. It seems that the whole scheme, to block off the path and turn it into garden ground, has collapsed and the ground put for sale. I believe “we” have to secure the future and re-open the path. It is still owned by Storey. As quickly as possible can BCC help. I need support. I am looking for contacts for Storey Homes.
I may add that Council Head of Roads was fully behind closing the path. It is gated off now. Council has policies for active travel and safe routes for children. Why would “Roads” actively support the closure of a path that has been well used for years and was previously open fields with right of responsible access?
Kind Regards
Councillor Ralph Barker
Ward 3 Clydesdale East”
CALLS Total Number Calls to Police Scotland for this area: 38 calls.
None of the calls or offences recorded relate to anything that presents a direct risk to the wider public.
CRIMES A total of 8 crimes were recorded for the area.
OFFENCE TYPES
2 - Dishonesty (thefts, shoplifting)
2 – anti social offences (S.38, public nuisance, neighbour complaints)
0 – Crimes against Society (Breach of Bail, Breach ASBO, Drugs)
0 – Violence (assault) 0 – Damage & Reckless Behaviour (vandalism, wilful fire raising)
1 – Road Traffic
3 – Miscellaneous
Partnership working continues with Biggar High School, Social Work Dept, Housing and antisocial behaviour teams to help tackle any issues brought to our attention.
16/02/ 2025
Business Account £326.93
Clyde Windfarm £1286.40
Incentive Account £3165.48
Of which
£346.52 (Incentive)
£1887.60 (Glenkerie)
£931.36 (Clyde Extension)
13. AOCB – new Website. It was explained that the Secretary would produce the minutes and agenda. These would be sent to Lesley Craise who would enter them on the new website and Roger on the BCC Facebook page. The Secretary would also send a large print version to Laura for displaying on notice board.
14. Date of Next Meeting 17/3/25
Minutes of Meeting of Biggar Community Council
20 January 2025 Venue: Biggar Library. Time 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Present: Jimmy Ritchie (Chair), Lesley Craise (Treasurer), Roger Curtis (Secretary). Laura Shirley, Caz Alcorn, Councillor McAllan, Councillor Allison, Neil Ingram, Gillian Gardner
Apologies:
Ben Wayne, Fionna Miskelly, Councillor Barker
4 members of the public were present
Welcomes and Apologies
Notification of AOCB - Website development
Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting (16/12/24)Matters Arising:
Biggar Public Park - the Golf Club Chairperson gave an update report. Money has been ring fenced by SLC. He is fairly optimistic. He has met with the Rugby Club to seek their expertise. Need to ensure that any caravan concession is given only to genuine holiday caravaners . Concern was expressed that Common Good land is kept.
Reply sent in response to letter concerning the Business Park . Secretary needs to contact Head of Planning, SLC concerning the lack of premises for small businesses. Awaiting reply.Approved. Proposed by Jim Richie, Seconded by CAZ
Changes of MembershipThere has been no response to our new advertisement that had been proposed by Lesley Craise.
Matters Raised By Members of the Public
Public Park Consultation – see 3.1 above.
Closure of footpath from North Back Road to Hope Gardens – the situation was updated. SLC councilors still following up
Items from BCC E Mails, Facebook Page and BCC Weebly Page
Police Report
None had arrived at the time but came later
BIGGAR COMMUNITY COUNCIL POLICE REPORT - Period: 18/11/2024 – 20/01/2025
Total Number Calls to Police Scotland for this area: 86 calls.
None of the calls or offences recorded relate to anything that presents a direct risk to the wider
A total of 25 crimes were recorded for the area.
OFFENCE TYPES
3 - Dishonesty (thefts, shoplifting)
4 – anti social offences (S.38, public nuisance, neighbour complaints)
5 – Crimes against Society (Breach of Bail, Breach ASBO, Drugs)
4 – Violence (assault)
5 – Damage & Reckless Behaviour (vandalism, wilful fire raising)
3 – Road Traffic
1 - Miscellaneous
Partnership working continues with Biggar High School, Social Work Dept, Housing and Partnership and antisocial
behaviour teams to help tackle any issues brought to our attention.
SLC Councilors’ reports 8.1 Following up on 3.2 and 5.2
Treasurer’s Presented by Lesley Craise, TreasurerTreasurer’s Report
20/01/ 2025
Business Account £326.93
Clyde Windfarm £1786.40
Incentive Account £4645.43
Of which
£346.52 (Incentive)
£2387.60 (Glenkerie)
£1911.31 (Clyde Extension)
Windfarm Micro Grants The requests from Golf Club, Museum and Gillespie were agreed
Planning Matters Need to respond to Local Plan Consultation when requested
Other Matters – Jimmy Richie explained why the 31 January Bonfire arrangements had to be changed at the last moment due to predicted adverse weather conditions
13. AOCB – new Website. Lesley Craise gave an update
14. Date of Next Meeting 17th February
17 March 2025 Venue: Biggar Library. Time 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Present: Jimmy Ritchie (Chair), Lesley Craise (Treasurer), Roger Curtis (Secretary). Laura Shirley, Councillor McAllan, Gillian Gardner, Caz Alcorn, Fionna Miskelly,
Apologies: Ben Wayne, Councillor Barker, Neil Ingram (see item 6b), Councillor Allison
4 members of the public were present
- Welcomes and Apologies
- Notification of AOCB -
- Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting (17/02/25)
3a) Approved. Proposed by Lesley Craise, Seconded by Gillian Gardner
- Changes of Mmbership
- Matters Raised By Members of the Public
5b) Jim Duncan – put forward a suggestion that Biggar have a “Day of The Dead” event similar to that held in South America. It was explained that this would have to be put forward the SLC. It was suggested by Lesley Craise and Caz Alcorn that he talk to Iona Goldie.
- Items from BCC E Mails, Facebook Page
6b) Local Development Plan – Neil Ingram is attending a meeting on zoom at the moment.
- Police Report
CALLS
Total Number Calls to Police Scotland for this area: 21 calls.
None of the calls or offences recorded relate to anything that presents a direct risk to the wider
public.
CRIMES
A total of 2 crimes were recorded for the area.
OFFENCE TYPES
0 - Dishonesty (thefts, shoplifting)
1 – anti social offences (S.38, public nuisance, neighbour complaints)
0 – Crimes against Society (Breach of Bail, Breach ASBO, Drugs)
0 – Violence (assault)
1 – Damage & Reckless Behaviour (vandalism, wilful fire raising)
0 – Road Traffic
0 - Miscellaneous
Partnership working continues with Biggar High School, Social Work Dept, Housing and antisocial
behaviour teams to help tackle any issues brought to our attention.
- SLC Councilors’ reports
8b) The Post Office sorting Office will not be closing.
8c) The not parking on pavements is to be enforced
8d) As a result of the January 24th storm, the safety of trees inspection is progressing and the replacement of road signs is continuing.
- Treasurer’s Presented by Lesley Craise, Treasurer
17/03/ 2025
Business Account £326.93
Clyde Windfarm £563.4
Incentive Account £1165.48
Of which
£346.52 (Incentive)
£387.6 (Glenkerie)
£ 431.36 (Clyde Extension)
- Windfarm Micro Grants
- Planning Matters
- Other Matters
Fiona requested that we have another meeting with David McMunn the Business Manager, Biggar Medical Practice. The Secretary will arrange.
- AOCB –
13b) Ann Wilson asked that I bring to the Community Council the issue of litter, especially on the left as you approach the Primary School. The councillor to inform the appropriate Council Department and Caz agreed to inform Biggar Blitzers.
14. Date of Next Meeting 14/4/25
Minutes of Meeting of Biggar Community Council
17 March 2025 Venue: Biggar Library. Time 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Present: Jimmy Ritchie (Chair), Lesley Craise (Treasurer), Roger Curtis (Secretary). Laura Shirley, Councillor McAllan, Gillian Gardner, Caz Alcorn, Fionna Miskelly,
Apologies: Ben Wayne, Councillor Barker, Neil Ingram (see item 6b), Councillor Allison
4 members of the public were present
- Welcomes and Apologies
- Notification of AOCB -
- Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting (17/02/25)
3a) Approved. Proposed by Lesley Craise, Seconded by Gillian Gardner
- Changes of Mmbership
- Matters Raised By Members of the Public
5b) Jim Duncan – put forward a suggestion that Biggar have a “Day of The Dead” event similar to that held in South America. It was explained that this would have to be put forward the SLC. It was suggested by Lesley Craise and Caz Alcorn that he talk to Iona Goldie.
- Items from BCC E Mails, Facebook Page
6b) Local Development Plan – Neil Ingram is attending a meeting on zoom at the moment.
- Police Report
CALLS
Total Number Calls to Police Scotland for this area: 21 calls.
None of the calls or offences recorded relate to anything that presents a direct risk to the wider
public.
CRIMES
A total of 2 crimes were recorded for the area.
OFFENCE TYPES
0 - Dishonesty (thefts, shoplifting)
1 – anti social offences (S.38, public nuisance, neighbour complaints)
0 – Crimes against Society (Breach of Bail, Breach ASBO, Drugs)
0 – Violence (assault)
1 – Damage & Reckless Behaviour (vandalism, wilful fire raising)
0 – Road Traffic
0 - Miscellaneous
Partnership working continues with Biggar High School, Social Work Dept, Housing and antisocial
behaviour teams to help tackle any issues brought to our attention.
- SLC Councilors’ reports
- 8)a Following up on 5.1
- 8)b The Post Office sorting Office will not be closing.
- 8)c The not parking on pavements is to be enforced
- 8)d As a result of the January 24th storm, the safety of trees inspection is progressing and the replacement of road signs is continuing.
- Treasurer’s Presented by Lesley Craise, Treasurer
17/03/ 2025
Business Account £326.93
Clyde Windfarm £563.4
Incentive Account £1165.48
Of which
£346.52 (Incentive)
£387.6 (Glenkerie)
£431.36 (Clyde Extension)
- Windfarm Micro Grants
- Planning Matters
- Other Matters
Fiona requested that we have another meeting with David McMunn the Business Manager, Biggar Medical Practice. The Secretary will arrange.
- AOCB –
13b) Ann Wilson asked that I bring to the Community Council the issue of litter, especially on the left as you approach the Primary School. The councillor to inform the appropriate Council Department and Caz agreed to inform Biggar Blitzers.
14. Date of Next Meeting 14/4/25
Minutes of Meeting of Biggar Community Council
17 February 2025 Venue: Biggar Library. Time 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Present: Jimmy Ritchie (Chair), Lesley Craise (Treasurer), Roger Curtis (Secretary). Laura Shirley, Councillor McAllan, Councillor Allison, Neil Ingram, Gillian Gardner
Apologies: , Ben Wayne, Fionna Miskelly, Caz Alcorn, Councillor Barker
6 members of the public were present
- Welcome
- Notification of AOCB - Website development
- Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting (20/01/25)
Biggar Public Park
1. the Golf Club has given permission to run both the Golf Club and Caravan Park.
2. Concerning the Business Park the following letter from Councilor Ralph Barker was read out:
"Given concerns that the change of use planning application would result in the eviction of the present commercial;/industrial users and that it was claimed there were no alternative sites local to Biggar I moved for refusal but did not get a seconder.
I did ask in committee that any applicant could apply for change of use but existing occupiers could not apply to retain present uses – correct, so now a change of use is consented the existing occupiers could apply for change of use back? It seemed so.
Kind Regards
Councillor Ralph Barker
Ward 3 Clydesdale East”
- Approved. Proposed by Gillian Gardner, Seconded by Laura Shirley
- Changes of Membership
- Matters Raised By Members of the Public
2. Closure of footpath from North Back Road to Hope Gardens – the following letter from Councilor Barker was read
"The land containing the path from Hope Gardens was consented under delegated powers for change of use and stopping up the path in 2022. Biggar CC objected but the objection was disregarded by planners under delegated powers. I still have a poor opinion of the process and only Biggar CC comes out of it with any honour. The path was actually only stopped up at the end of 2024. Constituents have complained. It increases the walking distance by up to 158 metres and is now more dangerous for children. It seems that the whole scheme, to block off the path and turn it into garden ground, has collapsed and the ground put for sale. I believe “we” have to secure the future and re-open the path. It is still owned by Storey. As quickly as possible can BCC help. I need support. I am looking for contacts for Storey Homes.
I may add that Council Head of Roads was fully behind closing the path. It is gated off now. Council has policies for active travel and safe routes for children. Why would “Roads” actively support the closure of a path that has been well used for years and was previously open fields with right of responsible access?
Kind Regards
Councillor Ralph Barker
Ward 3 Clydesdale East”
- Items from BCC E Mails, Facebook Page
- Police Report
CALLS Total Number Calls to Police Scotland for this area: 38 calls.
None of the calls or offences recorded relate to anything that presents a direct risk to the wider public.
CRIMES A total of 8 crimes were recorded for the area.
OFFENCE TYPES
2 - Dishonesty (thefts, shoplifting)
2 – anti social offences (S.38, public nuisance, neighbour complaints)
0 – Crimes against Society (Breach of Bail, Breach ASBO, Drugs)
0 – Violence (assault) 0 – Damage & Reckless Behaviour (vandalism, wilful fire raising)
1 – Road Traffic
3 – Miscellaneous
Partnership working continues with Biggar High School, Social Work Dept, Housing and antisocial behaviour teams to help tackle any issues brought to our attention.
- SLC Councilors’ reports
- Treasurer’s Presented by Lesley Craise, Treasurer
16/02/ 2025
Business Account £326.93
Clyde Windfarm £1286.40
Incentive Account £3165.48
Of which
£346.52 (Incentive)
£1887.60 (Glenkerie)
£931.36 (Clyde Extension)
- Windfarm Micro Grants
- Julie Nelson on Climate for Change Conversations for £223 – decision was to study the request further
- William Scott Hutcheson for help in putting on live rock acts request for £500 – decision was to grant £250
- Cool Cats Vinyl Record Club for help in buying new equipment request for £500 – decision was to grant £250
- Alison Bishop for help in commissioning a piece of music based on words by Ian Finlay Hamilton to be performed as part of a concert in celebration of Little Sparta. Request for £500 –decision was to grant £500
- Planning Matters Neil Ingram raised the issue about meeting with Renewco about renewable energy developments along the M74 .
- Other Matters
13. AOCB – new Website. It was explained that the Secretary would produce the minutes and agenda. These would be sent to Lesley Craise who would enter them on the new website and Roger on the BCC Facebook page. The Secretary would also send a large print version to Laura for displaying on notice board.
14. Date of Next Meeting 17/3/25
Minutes of Meeting of Biggar Community Council
20 January 2025 Venue: Biggar Library. Time 7:00pm- 8:00pm
Present: Jimmy Ritchie (Chair), Lesley Craise (Treasurer), Roger Curtis (Secretary). Laura Shirley, Caz Alcorn, Councillor McAllan, Councillor Allison, Neil Ingram, Gillian Gardner
Apologies:
Ben Wayne, Fionna Miskelly, Councillor Barker
4 members of the public were present
Welcomes and Apologies
Notification of AOCB - Website development
Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting (16/12/24)Matters Arising:
Biggar Public Park - the Golf Club Chairperson gave an update report. Money has been ring fenced by SLC. He is fairly optimistic. He has met with the Rugby Club to seek their expertise. Need to ensure that any caravan concession is given only to genuine holiday caravaners . Concern was expressed that Common Good land is kept.
Reply sent in response to letter concerning the Business Park . Secretary needs to contact Head of Planning, SLC concerning the lack of premises for small businesses. Awaiting reply.Approved. Proposed by Jim Richie, Seconded by CAZ
Changes of MembershipThere has been no response to our new advertisement that had been proposed by Lesley Craise.
Matters Raised By Members of the Public
Public Park Consultation – see 3.1 above.
Closure of footpath from North Back Road to Hope Gardens – the situation was updated. SLC councilors still following up
Items from BCC E Mails, Facebook Page and BCC Weebly Page
Police Report
None had arrived at the time but came later
BIGGAR COMMUNITY COUNCIL POLICE REPORT - Period: 18/11/2024 – 20/01/2025
Total Number Calls to Police Scotland for this area: 86 calls.
None of the calls or offences recorded relate to anything that presents a direct risk to the wider
A total of 25 crimes were recorded for the area.
OFFENCE TYPES
3 - Dishonesty (thefts, shoplifting)
4 – anti social offences (S.38, public nuisance, neighbour complaints)
5 – Crimes against Society (Breach of Bail, Breach ASBO, Drugs)
4 – Violence (assault)
5 – Damage & Reckless Behaviour (vandalism, wilful fire raising)
3 – Road Traffic
1 - Miscellaneous
Partnership working continues with Biggar High School, Social Work Dept, Housing and Partnership and antisocial
behaviour teams to help tackle any issues brought to our attention.
SLC Councilors’ reports 8.1 Following up on 3.2 and 5.2
Treasurer’s Presented by Lesley Craise, TreasurerTreasurer’s Report
20/01/ 2025
Business Account £326.93
Clyde Windfarm £1786.40
Incentive Account £4645.43
Of which
£346.52 (Incentive)
£2387.60 (Glenkerie)
£1911.31 (Clyde Extension)
Windfarm Micro Grants The requests from Golf Club, Museum and Gillespie were agreed
Planning Matters Need to respond to Local Plan Consultation when requested
Other Matters – Jimmy Richie explained why the 31 January Bonfire arrangements had to be changed at the last moment due to predicted adverse weather conditions
13. AOCB – new Website. Lesley Craise gave an update
14. Date of Next Meeting 17th February