Minute of the Quothquan and Thankerton Community Council meeting held at 1900 on Wednesday 24th September 2025 at Quothquan Hall
Present.
Barry Knock (Chairman), Charlie Todd (Treasurer) Jay Webster, Laura Knock.
Councillors: Alex Allision (from item 5), Ian McAllan, Ralph Barker.
Members of the public Lyn Barr, Andy Beavan, Douglas McPhail.
Apologies;
Kate Deacon (Secretary); Angus Milner-Brown (Depute Chair); Emma Smith; Sarah Monteith.
Chairs Welcome:
Attendees were welcomed to the meeting and the Chair reported that Barbara Duffner O.B.E. had tendered her resignation to South Lanarkshire Council.
At the time this resignation was submitted there was an on going campaign to recruit a new Community Councillor (to cover the post left vacant by Meg McDonalds passing last year). As there were two valid nominations and we now had two vacancies it was decided that both should be deemed elected.
The Chair wished to place on record the contribution made to local life by Barbara Duffner, as she was a person who quietly got on with things in the background and she sought no recognition for her valuable community work.
Jay Webster was introduced as a new Community Councillor. Sarah Montieth had planned to be with us, but a family health emergency meant she was looking after wee ones.
It was proposed by Charlie Todd and seconded by Laura Knock that the minute of the previous meeting be accepted as a true record
Matters arising;
Speed and volume of traffic using Libberton Muir Road, Quothquan, Shieldhill Road, Boat Bridge, Boat Road and Sherifflatts Road was discussed.
A Communication from a member of the public who was away on holiday was read out.
A member of the public who was present raised the following items.
15th January 2025. An HGV coming down the droosie brae went through the fence near the layby at the bend in the road. Section of fence was destroyed.
30th May 2025: Quad bike stolen from their farm and was never recovered.
15th July 2025: Incident where a car struck the Cova bridge, the car was in fact stolen, and was then set on fire. The driver then tried to access a farmhouse to steal another vehicle but was disturbed by a barking dog. The offender then went to the next farm where they stole a Jeep which was discovered in Dumfries. The member of the public believed that the offender was subsequently arrested.
8th August 2025: 2 cars coming from the Milk Hut up the droosie brae road saw one roll down the bank and one rolled in their field. Their fencing had been destroyed again.
A general discussion then ensued, It was felt that the issues on this route worsened when South Lanarkshire Council installed traffic calming measures through Carstairs. taking this action and a suggestion that all rural roads should have a 40-mph speed limit applied, which would see Satnav’s re-route traffic to higher speed and more suitable routes.
Councillor Alex Allision requested that all Road Traffic Incidents must be reported. Unless there was a complete picture, efforts to resolve this issue would be hampered.
Reports:
Police Scotland. Period 30/07-24/09/25
5 Incidents had been recorded for the Quothquan and Thankerton area during the period under review. During the same time Biggar had 67, Lanark 348 and Carluke 340.
Of the incidents one crime had been recorded.
As always non-urgent matters should be reported by the 101 number or by using the on-line form with urgent matters via 999.
Chairman.
When Meg passed last July, at our September 2024 meeting we nominated Kate as a replacement on the Clyde Wind Farm Committee. An email was sent following that meeting advising SLC who operate the scheme, of the change on the panel. You may recall at our May Meeting Kate said that she had heard nothing. There has been a further lengthy exchange of emails and I understand that Kate was eventually inducted in the third week of August 2025. It was felt that 11 months to replace a member of this important panel is a highly unsatisfactory state of affairs.
Alexander Coakley, from the Tinto Hill race organising committee has been in touch to say that this years event will take place on the 1st November with the first race at Noon. They will again have to use Damn Delicious as a meeting point as SLC will not allow use of the car park. - At least that will bring in extra business for a local retailer.
The question of overnighting and human waste being left at or near Tinto Hill Car Park has again raised its head. SLC (for parking) and Police Scotland (for concerns about welfare) have been advised. There was an event on the hill in Mid-September when two overnighting vehicles were taking up eight spaces.
The much-promised speed and volume traffic survey has been complete, and just yesterday we were contacted by a resident of Sherifflatts Road to say that two Ford Ranger cars and a Ford Transit had been reported to Police Scotland for speeding. Because these vehicles who choose to ignore speed limits are passing through our settlements when children are waiting roadside for school transport pick ups the concerns expressed by parents/guardians is fully understood by the Community Council. The chairman say he would always urge all drivers to drive within the speed limits and with consideration for the road layout, conditions and other road users.
Secretary:
It is highly unlikely that Kate will be able to attend evening meetings for a number of weeks and having consulted with her the Chairman was satisfied that all incoming communications had been processed in the appropriate way.
Planning applications:
The Cloburn planning application was approved by the planning committee at a meeting in August 2025. Just after the original application was submitted the Community Council were approached to join a quarry liaison group. We declined to do so, because of a possible breach of our neutral position on the application. Now that the application has been approved, we contacted the quarry about the liaison group which is not now being taken forward. (seems like we did the right thing)
Disappointingly the monies generated by the approval will be going into a central SLC pot rather than to help mitigate some of the serious issues that those living near the expansion area will face during the first two stages of the approval. Thank you to Cllr Allison for trying to get that situation changed at the panel meeting.
Cllr Barker said the funding was SAT (Scottish Aggregate Tax) with benefits tightly drawn.
Cllr Allison reported that he had since had meetings with council officers and would encourage those living in the affected areas to apply for grants to mitigate the worst of the effects on an expanded quarry.
Works have started on the 34 dwellings to be provided on the Firework field on Mill Road. Can the councillors provide information of where the s75 monies will be spent? In a Facebook reply to a resident Cllr Barker indicated that a chunk will be spent on a footway which is not roadside. What did this mean, and why was the resurfacing of one footway on Millands Road not considered?
Cllr Barker said that the section 75 monies are to be spent on Educational, Local projects and Social Housing provision. Cllr Barker said that the local project would involve improvements to the public footpath running between Mill Road and Newtown-of-Covington.
A member of the public enquired how many of the new homes would be for social housing, and Cllr Barker said none. The money would be used to provide extra social homes in places like East Kilbride.
When asked why Millands Roads footways had not been considered Cllr Allison stated that the Roads team at South Lanarkshire Council look the number of accidents together with an algorithm are used to determine expenditure on footways. Charlie pointed out that the public footpath between Mill Road and Newtown of Covington was very lightly used and that the money would have been better spent elsewhere.
Cllr Allison indicated that it was not only a roads team decision, but also involved the planning team. Changes to the agreement reached with the developer would need changes to the planning approval which were extremely unlikely to occur.
Projects:
On behalf of the Community the Chairman wished to thank all the volunteers who took part in the weekend clean up at the village hall.
Windfarm updates:
Clyde Windfarm: No report as neither delegate present.
Clyde Extension: Angus had kindly submitted the following written report. I attended the Clyde SSE Windfarm event at the Biggar Rugby Club last week. Four hours of folk chatting about their various projects and effectiveness of the funds. Nothing of importance regarding our CC area. Next meeting is Nov 5th
Cllr Barker indicated that he had boycotted this event.
Cllr Allision stated that the event was to showcase the £20m Community Benefit which had been provided by this scheme and that there 6 or 7 presentations of how that money has been used to benefit local lives.
Social Media and Website.
Following a suggestion from a resident, a new what’s on section has been included within the website and is pinned to the top of the Facebook Group,
Finance:
Charlie Todd provided the Financial report which had been circulated to Community Councils prior to tonight’s meeting. There were no questions raised.
Microgrant applications.
MG15 Ceilidh Dance Group requested £500 awarded £500
MG16 Carla Roberts/ThanFest requested £500 awarded £500
Laura Knock proposed that both awards should be paid which was seconded by Jay Webster and carried unanimously.
The Chair advised that the ThanFest event being held at the village hall was unique in that some of the profits would be handed over to the Trust Running the hall which will go someway to running a similar event during the summer of 2026 and beyond. Tickets are priced at £15 and are available from Carla or from the Village Inn. The chair understands that at least 40 have been sold so far, so it would be best to get in early to avoid disappointment.
Any Other business.
Anybody with Primary age children should note that TIG will be providing a free STEM type event at the Bowling Club on the in-service day 10th November 2025 commencing at 1300 sharp. The course will be provided by the Year 6 STEM ambassadors from Biggar High School.
Mill Road will be closed between the junction of Station Road and Millands Road on Thursday 13th November 2025 to enable Openreach to finally install the missing section of fibre cabling. The chair had enquired with the Roads Team if Scottish Water had been advised, and to date there had been no reply. Cllr McAllan indicated that he would follow this point up with the roads team.
Provision of bins.
A resident had just moved into a new build home on the Covington Road and discovered that there were no bins. On contacting the council, the resident had been advised that it would be about twelve weeks before one could be supplied.
Cllr Barker stated that there were 21 people awaiting the delivery of bins, and could they use their neighbour’s bin.
Laura said that in the main, new builds such as the one on Covington Road do not yet have neighbours, and would the situation be repeated on the Mill Road development?
Cllr McAllan indicated that he would follow this issue up.
Cllr Allision again apologised for his late arrival at this meeting and indicated he had been at an earlier meeting.
He reported that following our last meeting he had followed up on the complaints regarding standing water on Shieldhill Road and was able to report that a works order had been issued.
He had also been in contact with the landowner whose trees were overhanging the Shieldhill Road, and whilst they had a Tree Preservation Order it does not stop trimming to ensure that the highway is kept hazard free.
There was a general discussion about the comparison of crime figures between Quothquan, Lanark, Carluke, Biggar and that these were not considered relevant to our small community and if possible, could comparison them with other villages - eg. Symington be provided.
Date and venue of next meeting:
Wednesday 26th November 2025, the AGM followed by the regular meeting will be held at the Bowling Club, Sherifflatts Road, Thankerton (Subject to confirmation of venue)
There being no other business the Chairman thanked everybody for their valued inputs into the meeting and closed the meeting at 20.25
Post meeting notes.
On return to his home the chairman found an email from Cllr Barker which indicated that the Local Action Fund had been decided by the South Lanarkshire Executive Committee on the morning of the 24th September 2025.
A member of the public advised us that there was also another house break-in at Quothquan on 05/09/2025, and that also in September there was a large fire at farm at Quothquan, which was believed to started deliberately. Lots of damage and animal feed/straw was destroyed.
Wednesday 30 July 2025.
Minute of Quothquan and Thankerton Community Council meeting held at 1900 on Wednesday 30 July 2025, at the Village Hall, Quothquan.
Present:
Barry Knock (Chairman), Charlie Todd (Treasurer) Angus Milner-Brown (Depute Chairman) Emma Smith, Laura Knock.
Councillors Alex Allison, Ian McAllan and Ralph Barker* (From midway through item 6)
6 Members of the public
Apologies received:
Kate Deacon and Councillor Ralph Barker* (*Arrived mid way through item 6)
The chairman welcomed everybody to the meeting.
Previous minutes:
It was moved by Angus Milner-Brown and Seconded by Charlie Todd that they be accepted as a true record.
Matters Arising.
Angus Milner-Brown had spoken with the landowner regarding the overhanging trees on the Shieldhill Road. Angus was advised that the wooded area is under a government protection order (since 1964) which applies to the newly planted trees which limits the landowners ability to deal with the issues.
Reports:
POLICE.
Police update –27/05/2025 – 30/07/2025
6 Incidents recorded for Quothquan & Thankerton during this period – for comparison purposes
during the same period Biggar had 64 incidents, Lanark 447 and Carluke 443.
Of the incidents, 3 crimes were recorded, which relate to road traffic, theft and vandalism offences.
From my analysis of incidents there is nothing to indicate any specific trends that should cause concern to the local community.
As always, non-urgent matters should be reported via 101 or online reporting tool, urgent matters via 999.
PC Ross Allan Q646
Chairman.
There were two areas which had concerned residents since the last meeting. The first was the safety of road users throughout the area.
The Tartan Rally passed through our area on Thursday 19th June 2025. The competitors were mainly Dutch. There were reports of vehicles driving on the wrong side of the road, at high speeds on roads used by horse riders and those on foot, and fears of road traffic incidents likely to occur. Covington residents rang 999 to request Police Scotland to put a stop to the dangerous driving. The in evitable happened shortly after 0930 when a head on crash happened on the Covington Road. Three ambulances, Scottish Fire and Rescue and Police units were called. It was suggested that the SF&RS had to extract one driver from the wreckage.
The Community Council have been in contact with the organisers, who stated in their reply, that the relevant authorities had been contacted when setting up the route and that every home on the route had been delivered a notice outlining when and where the rally the pass. That is something that the vast majority of residents on the Covington refute. A poster was attached to the bus stop in Covington and one on a pole in Pettinain.
On the 15th July 2025 the Cova bridge (again on the Covington Road) was struck by a vehicle which then caught fire. SF&RS attended and extinguished the fire. There is resultant damage to the bridge. This is the third time in three years that bridge has been hit.
On the 28th July 2025 yet another Road Traffic incident occurred at Boat Bridge, when a red car travelling at speed hit a grey car travelling in the opposite direction and then struck the post used to support the flood gates.
Given the level of comments, and disruption caused to resident’s lives, the Community Council contacted SLC Roads regarding the speed and volumes of traffic now using various parts of our area. Sherifflats Road, Boat Road, Boat Bridge, Shieldhill Road, Libberton Muir Road had all been mentioned.
Community Councils were formed to be a bridge between Communities and the Council and when the SLC reply was read out a particular concern was raised by the sentence “therefore request that no further correspondence on the same issues is sent”.
Then then followed a debate, with EVERY member of the public being present to raise the volume of traffic and the speed that it travels through the area. The main points were:
The appalling volume and speed of traffic.
The 30 mph was being ignored and there was a lack of enforcement.
A 20 Mph speed limit should be introduced through Thankerton, Newtown-of-Covington, Quothquan and in the vicinity of Libberton Primary School.
Warning signage for children/horse riders should also be provided at settlement entry points.
There has been a major increase in HGV traffic using the route as a cut between the A70 and the M74.
Could pinch points be provided at each entrance to each settlement.
Suggestions have been made that local authorities can ask satnav providers to remove unsuitable routes from their route planning systems, given the number of RTCs within our area this is something which our ward councillors should try to achieve. It was pointed out that if a route from Stirling to Carlisle is programmed into the sat Nav the route produced passes through our area, on highly unsuitable roads.
There has been an increase in trade plated vehicles on delivery runs in recent weeks.
The National speed limit of Clydesdales rural road network is not appropriate.
Councillor Barker indicated to the meeting that he had written to both the Scottish Transport Minister, and Colin Smyth the Labour shadow minister about these issues. He also suggested that the Community Council should obtain hand held speed guns and undertake our own surveys, and in addition wanted to know the distances between the lamp posts in rural areas and in particular Newtown-of-Covington and that we should consider purchasing our own your speed is signage and place them at entry points to Thankerton.
The Chairman pointed out that the most recent reply from SLC indicated that a volume/speed survey would be undertaken after the children returned to school.
An email had been received from Janet Moxley (member of the public) inviting Community Councillors to a community cafe event at Biggar Youth Project on Tuesday 12th August 2025 between 11 am and 2 pm. This will be an opportunity to see our refurbished building (which was recently nominated for a Scottish Design Award), meet some of the young people we work with and have some light refreshments which they have prepared. Angus Milner-Brown would be attending.
Given the other reason why members of the public had joined us was the progress of the Community Asset Transfer application, Angus Milner-Brown provided an update and then took questions.
Secretaries Report.
The chairman stated that with Kate away that he was satisfied that all incoming mail had been processed in the usual way.
Planning Applications;
The Community Council had not been notified of any applications.
Panel updates;
Emma Smith provided a report regarding the Clyde Windfarm Panel, and Angus Milner-Brown provided an update regarding the Clyde Extension Panel.
Social Media and Website.
Since the last meeting both Laura Knock and Charlie Todd had Facebook accounts cloned, and friend requests had been sent out to those on their friends list.
The Chairman urged anybody on Facebook to change their settings so that only the account holder is able to see their friends list.
With the numbers on Facebook generally falling Angus suggested that a noticeboard be provided by the fence in the Chairmans Garden. Laura was agreeable to that suggestion. With the Village Inn up for sale it may be necessary to consider relocating the defibrillator should the new owner request it be moved.
Finance Report.
Charlie Todd provided the report which shew the balances to be
Description Balance
Admin Grant £466.09
SLC Microgrant £4,600.00
SSE Microgrant £3,450.00
SLC Covid Grant £900.00 (earmarked for celebrating the complete CAT of the Hall)
Cumul Bank Int £205.78
Total Balance £9,621.87
Microgrant Applications.
The Chairman pointed out that urgent microgrant applications from the 1st Biggar Tinto Scouts, (£500) and the Thancard Trust (£500 from both funds) were received, circulated among Community Councillors. The Scouts approval was unanimously approved, and the with Thancard Trust application the trustees who are also Community Councillors recused themselves from the decision-making process. The application was unanimously approved by the other Community Councillors.
There was one new application.
Libberton Primary Parent Council who were requesting £500. It was unanimously agreed to make that award.
AOB
Angus Milner Brown pointed out that there were to be two events taking place at Thankerton Village Hall. On the 17th August TIG were having their BBQ, and on the 19th August Brawclan would be performing commencing at 1930.
Angus also highlighted that the Thancard Trust had set up a Paypal business account together with a Just Giving Account.
Date and venue of next meeting
Wednesday 24th September 2025, 7pm, at Quothquan Hall.
There being no other business the Chairman thanked everybody for coming, and their contributions and closed the meeting at 20.10.
Wednesday 6th November 2024
Minutes of Quothquan and Thankerton Community Council held at 1915 on Tuesday 5th November 2024 commencing at 19.15 hours
1 Present
Barry Knock (Chairman) Kate Deacon (Secretary) Charlie Todd (Treasurer) Barbara Duffner, Emma Smith and Laura Knock.
4 members of the public:
2. Apologies
Councillor Ian McAllan
3. Chairman welcome
Barry Knock welcomed everybody to our meeting
4. Minutes of previous meeting
It was moved by Emma Smith and Seconded by Charlie Todd that they be accepted as a true record of the meeting held on the 10th September 2024.
5 Matters Arising
Following the last Community Council meeting on Tuesday 10th September 2024 when members of the public raised concerns about the dangers of using the Thankerton Cross Road junction, a serious Road Traffic Incident occurred on Sunday 15th September 2024 which resulted in a Land Rover type vehicle in the front garden of the toll house. This is about the sixth time in three years that a vehicle has ended up in that position following a collision. Emails were sent to all ward councillors, to Colin Park and to Police Scotland.
17th September 2024 damage only rear ending southbound approaching the junction.
28th September 3 near misses, one with vehicle coming to rest on the hard standing near wee bridge.
29th September near miss motorcycle doing 100 mph nearly hit push bikes crossing the A73.
2nd October RTC (Sherifflatts Farm Junction) between Motorcycle and Van.
9th October. The 30 Wanlockhead to Lanark bus left he carriageway and struck a fence at the top of Sherifflatts Road.
17th October. Vehicle hit the roadside fencing at the Sherifflatts Road, Junction. Livestock on the road.
Following this spate of incidents an invitation had been sent to the head of the roads team, Mr Colin Park to attend this meeting. He responded saying that he was on annual leave, and his office was too busy to attend meetings.
A member of the public reported that they had been involved in a very recent near miss not included in the list.
All present were concerned about the councils view that nothing would be done until their was a fatality, and that this included Station Road where a request for action from the Thancard Trust, the operators of the village hall, where a major change has occurred in that 204 children are now attending Scouts had met with a similar response.
It was suggested that the community should deploy their own signage on the roadsides and use a cardboard policeman in an attempt to ensure that speed limits are complied with,
Councillor Barker explained that the roads department would not be interested unless fatalities occurred, and that they would not ask Police Scotland to undertake any enforcement. Councillor Barker also stated that he believed that the safety camera van when using the “pad” immediately South of the crossroads may not be meeting the laid down guidelines because of the topography of the road limiting visibility.
It was also reported that a young person using an electric scooter was involved in a near miss at the railway station.
6 Reports
Councillors:
Councillor Barker reported on the SLC budget situation explaining that approximately £30 million needed to be saved from the budget. To bridge next years budget gap some of the things considered for this year may be revisited. Councillor Barker reported that the depth of cuts were not expected to be so severe, but we must remember that they were cuts on top of cuts.
Police Report
Quothquan & Thankerton Community Council
Police update – 10/09/24 – 05/11/2024
14 Incidents recorded for Quothquan & Thankerton during this period – for comparison purposes during the same period Biggar had 98 incidents, Lanark 430 and Carluke 442.
Of the 14 incidents, 3 crimes were recorded, which relate to 1 x Communication offence and 2 x Thefts
From my analysis of incidents and crime reports there is nothing to indicate any specific trends that should cause concern to the local community.
As always, non-urgent matters should be reported via 101 or online reporting tool, urgent matters via 999.
PC Ross Allan Q646
Chairman
Barry said that as what he was going to say had been covered under matters arising that he would move on.
Secretary The Previous secretary Laura Knock reported that since Meg Macdonald had passed that all incoming mail had been processed in a timely manner and passed onto Community Councillors as necessary. It was also highlighted that the number of spam emails was increasing
Treasurer
Charlie Todd provided an update, to 30th October 2024.
Microgrants:
MG13 1st Biggar/Tinto Scouts requested 463.98 and after discussion were awarded £500. Moved Emma Smith and seconded Laura Knock
MG14 Libberton P.S. Parent Council requested £500, award of £500 Moved Emma Smith and seconded Laura Knock
MG15 Thancard Trust SCIO requested £500 , awarded £500 Moved Laura Knock and seconded Emma Smith.
7 Planning Matters
There had been No new applications within our area.
Application P/19/0405 was reported to be recently approved (22nd October 2024) for 34 new dwelling houses to be located off Mill Road, Thankerton.
The days around the publication of the approval were when the SLC online Planning portal was unavailable.
Given that this application had been submitted in 2019 and having been shewn on the SLC planning portal as “awaiting decision” until the date of announcement there were rumours circulating particularly on what Thankerton would be receiving from the Section 75 monies heading towards the Council, and about the lack of transparency.
Councillor Barker added to this when he advised the meeting that the application had not recently been approved as suggested in the letters sent out to those who had raised objections.
Questions about exactly when the application, about what is happening with the community gain monies given that the former bus shelter at the triangle was severely damaged by a car and removed and that repeated calls for a replacement have fallen of deaf ears; how the sewerage will be processed as the current plant is at capacity, and about the unsuitability of roads such as Tams Brae to cope with the additional two point five cars per dwelling were raised.
Councillor Barker reiterated that in the two and a half years that he has served on the planning committee that this application had not come before him and that it was probable that between the decision being approved and the date of publication of approval that “wheeling and dealing” between the developer and the Council had been underway.
8 Delegates Reports
Clyde Windfarm Fund. Emma Smith reported that there were applications proceeding through the pipeline including the installation of a lift at the Gillespie centre in Biggar.
Clyde Extension Fund. A meeting was due to take place.
9 Any other business.
A member of the public from Quothquan drew attention to the poor condition of Shieldhill Road between the B7016 junction and Quothquan Hall. It was reported that at about 15 locations cold fill was leaving the holes it had been place in, and that these defects needed patches rather than yet more cold fill. At the bottom of the Droosie, near the junction with Boat Road there was now a FORD as water was flowing across the carriageway and damaging the road surface. In attention because no attention had been given to the roads verges they were encroaching onto the carriageway and making it much narrower.
A Thankerton resident raised the issues concerning the scouts using the village hall. It was reported that on the 29th October there were fifteen cars parked with their engines running and the majority with lights on, which is causing a disturbance to local residents. Parking on the bend in the road between Sherifflatts Road and Station Road was seen as an avoidable hazard.
Another resident felt that a 22.00 finish time for the hall was a bit late for the scouts and reported that the lights had been left on three occasions.
Angus Milner-Brown (who is Chair of the Thancard Trust) outlined the plans the Thancard Trust SCIO have for the site, but getting an informal pre-planning discussion meeting with the planners and roads departments was frustratingly difficult. Councillor Barker was asked a number of times whether he could use his office to see whether this difficulty could be removed.
10 Date of Next meeting
Wednesday 29th January 2025 commencing at 1900 at Thankerton Bowling Club.
11 Closing the meeting
There being no other business Barry thanked everybody for coming and closed the meeting at 21.10
Wednesday 6th November 2024
Draft Minutes of Quothquan and Thankerton Community Council A.G.M
Held on Tuesday 5th November commencing at 1900 in Thankerton Bowling Club
1. Present.
Barry Knock (Chairman), Barbara Duffner, Emma Smith, Kate Deacon, Laura Knock (Secretary),
Angus Milner-Brown (Depute Chairman), Charlie Todd (Treasurer)
Members of the public 4:
2. Apologies
Councillor Ian McAllan
3. Previous minutes.
It was moved by Emma Smith and seconded by Charlie Todd that the minutes were a true record of the previous meeting.
4. Officer bearers annual reports.
Chairman
Barry Knock reported that three things needed noting. a) Road traffic incidents had returned to the A73 with a new record of 10 in the space of 31 days. b) That the Thancard Trust SCIO have achieved a CAT Light for Thankerton’s village hall. c) reports of traffic issues on Station Road are being drawn to our attention.
Secretary
Laura Knock reported that all correspondence since the passing of Meg Macdonald had been processed and where necessary passed on to Community Councillors.
Treasurer
Charlie Todd presented the balance sheet shewing the balances at the end of the financial year (31st March 2024)
5. Election of Office Bearers.
The Chair is elected for a four year term. Nominations were sought for the positions of Secretary, Treasurer and Depute Chair.
Secretary: Kate Deacon was nominated by Charlie Todd and Seconded by Angus Milner-Brown.
Treasurer: Charlie Todd was nominated by Emma Smith and Seconded by Laura Knock
Depute Chair: Angus Milner-Brown was nominated by Charlie Todd and Seconded by Emma Smith.
6. Bank Account
The bank account will be unchanged, exception that following the passing of Meg Macdonald that Emma Smith was added as a signatory.
7. Dates of Meetings for 2025.
With the Thancard Trust now running the Village Hall and the scouts using it on Tuesdays and given that the scouts were using Quothquan Hall on a Tuesday it was agreed to change the meeting days to Wednesdays, with the following dates agreed.
29th January, 26 March, 28th May, 30th July, 24 September and 26th November 2025
Meetings outwith the bowling season will be at the Bowling Club and meetings during the Bowling season will be held at Quothquan Hall.
Chairman to check with SLC if the constitution will need amending to reflect the different meeting days.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 19.15
Minutes of Quothquan and Thankerton Community Council meeting held at 7pm on Tuesday 12h March 2024.
1 Present;
Barry Knock (Chairman), Charlie Todd (Treasurer), Angus Milner-Brown (Depute Chairman), Kate Dixon, Laura Knock. Councillor Ralph Barker.
Members of the public: 4.
2 Apologies;
Barbara Duffner, Meg Macdonald, Councillor Ian McAllan, PC A Kerr and PC R Allan
3
The Chairman welcomed everybody to what may well be the last meeting of the Community Council at Thankerton Village Hall.
4 Approval of Minutes.
It was moved by Angus Milner-brown and seconded by Kate Dixon that the minutes be approved.
5. Matters Arising.
None.
6. Guest:
Maeve Fryday from Renewco provided a presentation about the proposed M74 Energy Park near Abington. There then followed a question and answer session covering the topics of Community Benefit, life of the project, glint and glare from solar panels and commencement of production. Full details of the scheme are available at
https://www.renewcopower.com/projects/m74-west-renewable-energy-park/
7 Reports:
Police update – 09/01/24 – 12/03/24
9 Incidents recorded – for comparison purposes during the same period Biggar had 104 incidents, Lanark 414 and Carluke 476.
Only one crime report recorded for theft of motor vehicle.
From my analysis of incidents and crime reports there is nothing to indicate any specific trends that should cause concern to the local community.
As always, non-urgent matters should be reported via 101 or online reporting tool, urgent matters via 999.
PC Alan Kerr Q1240 and PC Ross Allan Q646
Chairmans report
An email had been received from the office of the Chairman of Network Rail indicating that the step free access at Carstairs station had seen the commencement of work, with a completion date of mid-September 2024.
A lot of work had been put in by our friends at the Thancard Trust, Thankerton Improvement Group and ourselves following the announcement of the closure of rural village halls. The chair had arranged a meeting between Carmichael CC, Pettinain CC, The Thancard Trust and ourselves which was held at Pettinain Village hall on Tuesday 13th February 2024 to investigate possible options for the retention of these key community assets. The Community Council were disappointed in that an invoice had been received, (£17.80) which had been paid, for holding a meeting to seek solutions to this issue.
The Portaloo toilet had been withdrawn without notification by South Lanarkshire Council. Given the history of human excrement being left on the hill, in the car park and on local roadside verges residents had been contacting the community council seeking the return of the portaloo.
3rd March 2024 saw about 80 vehicles in the car park by mid morning.
On Saturday 9th March there was a major rescue operation to recover an injured female from near the summit of Tinto Hill involving Moffat MRT, Tweed MRT, Police Scotland Strathclyde MRT, Scottish Ambulances (including the SORT team), numerous police units and rescue Helicopter R199 based at Prestwick. Again our local MRT were not aware that the toilet had been withdrawn. It was reported that the Thancard Trust had been investigating the provision of a replacement Portaloo but had met with obstruction after obstruction from South Lanarkshire Council.
A resident has reported that two of the six litter bins located within Tinto Hill Car park have been withdrawn. During last Summer and the many major events which take place on the hill, even the six bins were unable to cope with the detritus left by the visitors. The Chairman has written to SLC about the Portaloo and Bin situation and has not had a reply.
The recently approved retrospective planning application at the Roadhead Farm Feeds site has again been the subject of correspondence. Issues of noise well into the small hours, light pollution, and traffic issues on Shieldhill Road have all been made known to us. One resident has been in communication with a planning officer who has referred to conditions provided with application number CL/05/0360 and the planning officer is reported to not be willing to share the details of those conditions with the resident raising the issues unless a fee is paid.
Secretary:
All Communications received at the Community Council email address have been shared with members as necessary.
Treasurer
Quothquan & Thankerton CC Financial Statement
Unspent Balances as at 9th March 2024
Desc Balance
Admin Grant £395.49
SLC Microgrant £0.00
SSE Microgrant £2,775.00
SEE Covid 19 Grant £101.86
SLC Covid 19 Grant £900.00
Cumul Bank Interest £101.62
Total Bank Balance £4,273.97
8
Planning Applications.
P/23/1395 for a new telecoms mast at Cloburn Quarry has been approved.
Following on from the Pre-Application Consultation for the Cloburn Quarry expansion plans both Pettinain CC and ourselves have now received an update which indicates changes to the scheme resulting of that Consultation have been made. - There do not appear to be any changes to the plan for use of the trackway and Covington Road for local deliveries, or a definition of what the applicant calls a local delivery.
9. Delegates Reports
Clyde Windfarm Fund. No delegate present to provide a report.
Clyde Extension Fund. Angus Milner-Brown indicated that there was nothing to report.
Community Planning Partnership. A presentation was made to the CPP on the 23rd January by Stuart Laird for which clarification was sought on a number of points. An email covering some of those points was received and circulated to CC members on the 27th February 2024 indicating that SLC are to push forward with plans for a transport hub at Abington. There is no rail element to their scheme. And to develop the “my bus” service with enhancements to demand-responsive transport serving, in particular, communities in settlements in Southern Clydesdale and rural areas.
10 Any Other business
A nomination was sought for our representative on the Tinto Village Day Committee.
It was moved by Laura Knock and seconded by Angus Milner-Brown that the nominee should be Charlie Todd. All were agreed.
11 Date and venue of the next meeting.
The chairman reported that with the reported closure of the village hall by SLLC and the reported retention by SLC that the situation was being confused by the conflicting information being received.
SLC have advised “There is nothing in the scheme (for establishment of Community Councils) that dictates where a Community Council can meet. The only requirement we have, is that any chosen on-line or venue meeting is accessible to all members and the general public. It is for the Community Council to decide where that is or if it is online, in person, or a mixture of both”.
The Bowling Club are happy to host our meetings, but during the Bowling Season that may mean the use of the very small committee room. (We may remember after lockdown and before the village hall was allowed to re-open that meetings were held in that room and just how uncomfortable they were, due to the heat and the lack of ventilation). Quothquan Hall have also offered their venue for our meetings. Therefore, I would recommend that during the Bowling season we meet in person at Quothquan Hall, and then in person at The Bowling Club during their closed season. It should be noted that meetings at venues other than the village hall will result in an increased use of the administration grant.
It was decided that the Chair should further endeavour to ascertain exactly what is likely to happen to the village hall, and should that be unavailable then the recommendation above should be enacted.
Next meeting 14th May 2024.
12 Closure of the meeting.
The Chairman thanked everybody for attending and closed the meeting at 20.46 hours.
Minutes of Quothquan and Thankerton Community Council meeting held at 7pm on Tuesday 9th January 2024.
1. Present; Barry Knock (Chairman), Angus Milner-Brown (Vice Chair), Emma Smith, Kate Deacon, Laura Knock, and Councillor Ralph Barker.
4 Members of the public.
2. Apologies: Charlie Todd (Treasurer), Meg Macdonald (Secretary), Barbara Duffner and Councillor Ian McAllan.
3. The chair welcomed everybody to the meeting.
4. Approval of minutes. It was moved that the minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 14th November be accepted as a true record by Emma Smith and Seconded by Angus Milner-Brown.
5. Matters Arising:
MG11. A microgrant in the name of Libberton Primary Parent Association was referred to SSE for advice. Following the receipt of that advice the application was declined.
The roads department at SLC have indicated that depth markers will not be provided on the area of Covington Road which is prone to flooding as depth markers are too dangerous!
6. Guest: Janet Moxley representing the Biggar Area Climate Care Group.
Biggar Area Climate Care (BACC) is a fairly new group which was set up in 2022 to help people in the ML12 area (+ Dolphinton) take practical steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Following on from a feasibility study looking at potential projects the group have the following ongoing projects:
Bike repair clinics in association with Biggar Bike Shed. Minor bike repairs are carried out for free while more major ones are referred to the Bike Shed. To date these have mostly been in Biggar, but one was run in Broughton in the autumn and more will be run in the villages in the spring/summer.
Repair Cafes. These allow people to get items such as clothing, garden tools, musical instruments and small electrical/electronic items repaired by experienced fixers, They also provide the opportunity to learn fixing skills. The first Repair Cafe ran in Biggar in Dec, and cafes in Biggar will alternate with cafes in the surrounding area. A Repair Cafe in Thankerton is planned for the spring. This project is supported by a grant from the National Lottery Awards for All.
Home Energy Efficiency surveys. Thanks to funding from SSE Renewables the group has been able to commission John Gilbert Architects, who specialise in improving energy efficiency, to provide impartial bespoke advice to people in the South Lanarkshire part of the ML12 area. 22 surveys have been carried out so far mostly in the villages with 3 in the Quothquan and Thankerton area. Another 80 will be done over the next few years. Key learning points will be shared online and at face-to-face events, and the group is looking into bulk-purchasing materials and expertise to help people make recommended upgrades. In addition, a thermal imaging camera has been purchased, and four volunteers trained in its use. This will be used to help householders understand where their buildings are losing heat.
The group is also looking at longer-term projects around tree-planting, energy generation and transport. BACC is keen to work with Quothquan and Thankerton Community Council, The Thankerton Improvement Groups and other local groups on these projects.
To find out more about Biggar Area Climate Care's activities please see https://biggarareaclimate.weebly.com/
7. Reports:
A. Police Scotland:
Police update – 13/11/23 – 09/01/24
10 Incidents recorded – for comparison purposes during the same period Biggar had 69 incidents, Lanark 415 and Carluke 378.
Only one crime report recorded for theft.
From my analysis of incidents and crime reports there is nothing to indicate any specific trends that should cause concern to the local community.
As always, non-urgent matters should be reported via 101 or online reporting tool, urgent matters via 999.
PC Alan Kerr Q1240
PC Ross Allan Q646
B. Elected Members.
Councillor Ralph Barker reported that South Lanarkshire Council are unlikely to be bankrupt in 2024-2025 year, but were looking at making cuts to all non-statutory services currently provided, including a redesignation involving School Transport Services.
Turning to the Village Hall Councillor Barker said that it is likely that South Lanarkshire Leisure could hand the hall back to South Lanarkshire Council and it would then be boarded up. Further information was expected to be released in the next few weeks. He was disappointed given the number of comments on the Facebook Group that nobody had been prepared to step forward and take the hall on.
C. Chairman.
There have been further flooding of the playpark issues and advice was passed to South Lanarkshire Council whose reply was posted onto social media. Councillor Barkers response on Social media to pave part of the playpark drew universal opposition.
Kate Deacon would contact South Lanarkshire council regarding the provision of a wild flower boarder within the playpark.
We were advised on the 24th November 2023 that Millands Road footways would be resurfaced cost £20k. In fact the works were only between 31 and 36 Millands Road, a tiny percentage of what was required.
The lying snow between 1st and 4th December 2023 on Tams Brae led to an exchange of emails with Mr Newbigging with a request to divert a gritting lorry on one of the four daily runs on Boat Road so that Tams Brae could be treated. The request was rejected, but on the 6th December 2023 the Community Council were advised that hand propelled gritting equipment, which would need secure storage, could be supplied for residents to grit the road themselves.
The Roads team at South Lanarkshire Council were asked if the road closures resulting from the Milk Tanker leaving the A73 near the Eaglesgates crossroad junction would be part of any future review regarding the A73. They responded saying that as there were no deaths of injuries it would not be reviewed.
A Quothquan resident has again been in touch regarding the recently approved retrospective planning application for the Roadhead Farm feeds site. Others have raised the issues caused when two HGVs try to pass on the Droosie. Roads responded to another resident who shared the reply with the Community Council which indicated that the roads team had not be consulted regarding the retrospective planning application. Councillor Barker then provided a list of reasons why all these retrospective planning applications are approved. He also said that should an application be refused that South Lanarkshire Council could have to fight the matter in the Courts and could be subject to additional compensation.
29th December 2023 saw the defibrillator at the Bowling Club withdrawn from its box on the instruction of the Scottish Ambulance service. That now means that all three CC/TIG provided units have now been withdrawn at least once.
D. Secretary: All incoming emails had been processed and advice passed forward by the most appropriate method.
E. Treasurer:
As the treasurer had been unable to attend the meeting, he had prepared a brief statement showing the current balance.
Quothquan & Thankerton CC Financial Statement
Unspent Balances as at 5th January 2024
Desc Balance
Admin Grant £395.49
SLC Microgrant £775.00
SSE Microgrant £3,000.00
SEE Covid 19 Grant £101.86
SLC Covid 19 Grant £900.00
Cumul Bank Interest £81.51
Total Bank Balance £5,253.86
Microgrants:
After discussion it was agreed that the two applications:-
MG12 Moffat Mountain Rescue requested £500 approved £500 moved Emma Smith Seconded Laura Knock.
MG13 Libberton Primary Parent Association Requested £500, Approved £500 Moved Emma Smith Seconded Laura Knock.
9. Planning
Application P/23/1395, new telecoms mast at Cloburn was noted.
Letter from Maeve Fryday, Senior Developer Onshore Wind at M74 West Ltd regarding the potential of developing a Renewable Energy Park on land around the M74, approximately 3km northwest of Abington, South Lanarkshire. It was decided that the Chair should respond seeking further details of the proposal and if any Community Gain scheme, such as the Clyde Extension Fund will be provided.
10. Delegates Reports
A. Clyde Windfarm: Emma Smith provided an update on the applications and that the Scheme AGM was due to be held on the 16th January 2024.
B. Clyde Extension Fund: Angus Milner-Brown provided an update.
11. Any Other Business.
It had been drawn to our attention that the Community Planning Partnership were holding a meeting to look at rural transport. Councillor Barker was asked if he was attending. He indicated that he was not involved, and added “If cant afford to run buses then they will be withdrawn”
It had been reported that the Chair of the Tinto Village Day had resigned.
12. Date and Venue of next meeting:
Tuesday 12th March 2024, and given the uncertainty about our village hall it would be at a venue to be decided.
13. The Chair in closing the meeting at 20.55 thanked everybody for attending and their valuable input
Meeting of Quothquan and Thankerton Community Council Held at 1915 on Tuesday 14th November 2023 at Thankerton Village Hall.
1.Present.
Barry Knock (Chair), Meg MacDonald (Secretary), Angus Milner-Brown (depute Chair), Emma Smith, Laura Knock, Alex Allison (Councillor), Ian McAllan (Councillor), Ian Mulholland (SLC Officer), Lynn Shaw (SLC Officer). Sarah Montieth (Member of Public), Jennifer Baillie (Member of Public) and Mel Payton (Member of Public).
2.Apologies.
Charlie Todd (Treasurer), Kate Deacon, Barbara Duffner, PC Kerr and PC Ross. Ralph Barker
(Councillor)
3. The chair welcomed everybody to the meeting.
4.Previous minutes.
It was moved by Emma Smith and seconded by Laura Knock that they be accepted as a true record of the previous meeting.
5.Matters Arising:
The comments received in respect of planning applications P/23/0866 (Lanark Interchange), P/23/0777 (Haynes Garage area) and P/23/1070 had been passed forward to the planning officers dealing with each case.
The Community Council had been advised that application P/23/0777 had received approval.
P/23/0341 had been approved and we note that included within the approval was a statement that a reduction in the road speed limit (60 mph) would not be provided even thought this application took the settlement of about 20 dwellings. The settlement must now be 600m in length to qualify for a reduced speed limit.
Councillor Allison reported that P/23/1070 had received retrospective planning approval and that application P/23/0866 had been approved by the planning committee.
6.Guest.
This item would be taken at the end of other business.
7.Projects.
This item would be taken at the end of other business.
8.Reports:
Police Scotland.
Police update –12/09/23 - 13/11/23
8 incidents were recorded for Thankerton/Quothquan during this period. For comparison, in the same time period 436 calls were received for Lanark and 482 for Carluke.
2 crime reports were raised – these were in relation to 1 x Housebreaking with intent to steal & amp; 1 x Road Traffic Offence
From my analysis of incidents and crime reports there is nothing to indicate any other specific trends that should cause any concerns to the local community.
Please report any incidents to police by either phoning 101 or using the online reporting tool on the Police Scotland website.
Community Police officers can also be contacted by emailing
LanarkshireLPSTClydesdale@scotland.police.uk
PC Alan Kerr Q1240
PC Ross Allan Q646
Elected Members.
Councillors Allison and McAllan reported on the budget situation indicating that reports from officers had been summitted to Members and that a meeting to consider outcomes was to take place shortly.
Chairman.
The Chairman highlighted the issue of the unnecessary closure of the floodgates 15th to 18th September 2023 when the river levels were only inches above normal. Members of the public explained the difficulties that these unnecessary closures caused and suggested that more human interaction was necessary. When the employees are sent out to close the gates if can see that the river is not in flood or in spate the closures should not take place.
It was suggested that the flooding on Covington Road last winter (between two and three feet deep) when vehicles became trapped in flood water that this situation may have been reduced by the provision of flood depth markers. At this point in the road, the verges are four to six inches higher than the road surface giving a false impression of the water depth.
The parking restrictions on the A73, Lochlyoch Road and Station Road were allowed to lapse. A member of public was surprised by the double yellow lines were now advisory only and was concerned that Station Road would become gridlocked during the schools’ weeks.
Secretary: In line with the normal method of working correspondence arriving at the Q&TCC email address had been forwarded to CC members and where appropriate arrangements to add them to the Website and Social Media outlets had been taken.
Treasurer.
The treasured provided the following information in writing.
Quothquan & Thankerton CC Financial Statement
Unspent Balances as at 9th November 2023
Desc Balance
Admin Grant £439.60
SLC Microgrant £1,075.00
SSE Microgrant £3,000.00
SEE Covid 19 Grant £101.86
SLC Covid 19 Grant £900.00
Cumul Bank Interest £81.51
Total Bank Balance £5,597.97
Microgrants
MG11 Libberton Primary School requested £500.00.
After some discussion it was moved by Meg MacDonald and Seconded by Angus Milner-Brown that the Community Council should obtain guidance from SSE regarding the validity of the application, as it was felt the Local Authority should be providing the service requested in the application.
MG12 Thankerton SWRI. Requested £300.00 approve £300.00 proposed by Emma Smith and seconded Angus Milner-Brown. All agreed.
9.Planning applications.
No new applications advised to the Community Council.
10,Delegates reports.
There was nothing to report from the Clyde Windfarm delegates.
Angus Milner-Brown provided a brief report regarding recent activity on the Clyde Extension Fund.
6.7. Guests.
Ian Mulholland gave a report and answered questions regarding possible asset transfers from South Lanarkshire Council to local constituted groups. He indicated that there was an on-going review of all properties and the next round of hall closures/cuts in services will be decided during the first quarter of 2024. (ie before 31/03/2024). SLLC were looking for savings of about £10 million. Mr Mulholland was not in a position to make any comments regarding the playpark as it was outside the remit of his position.
Having listened to Mr Mulholland, Angus Milner-Brown indicated that the Thancard Trust had received the independent report regarding the condition of the Village Hall and Playpark which would be considered at the next meeting of the Trustees on Monday 20th November 2023.
Angus Milner-Brown formally asked for the asset transfer request forms to be sent to the Thancard Trust as a matter of urgency.
The question of whether the Car Park was part of the hall site, or part of the playpark site was unresolved, and will need addressing before the Thancard Trust can make any decisions on their next moves.
Mr Mulholland then answered questions from members of the public.
11.Any Other Business.
Nothing raised.
12.Date and venue of next meeting.
Tuesday 10th January 2024 at a venue to be advised.
13.Closing the meeting,
The chairman thanked everybody for coming and the valuable input from members of the public and urged those in motor vehicles parked in the car park to use caution when joining Station Road due to the reduced visibility caused by the hedging. There had been at least two incidents in recent weeks, and he didn’t want to see any more!