Cittaslow Linlithgow

Steering Group Meeting

Tuesday 29.9.09

Lowport Centre Linlithgow

Present: Phil Murray(PM)(Chair), David Tait(DT), Alan Young(AY), Ken Richardson (KR), Jean Long(JL)

1.Apologies: Michael Bennett(MB) Rona Gold(RG)

2.Updates:

After welcoming all present to the initial ‘post recess’ meeting of the Steering Group, and thanking all who had submitted comments on the July ‘Way Forward’ paper, PM provided updates as follows:

• Funding-Cittaslow Linlithgow account at 22/9/09 stands at £1686.62; once the outcome of negotiations between Cittaslow UK and Cittaslow International regarding a proposed amended fee structure,(see below) this figure will be significantly reduced by our annual subscription to Cittaslow UK
• Cittaslow UK- (1) restructuring of the organisation into a registered Community Interest Company, with a Board of Directors comprising representatives of each of the existing Cittaslow towns in UK, has now been completed. (2)In the light of common concerns amongst member communities regarding the cost of subscriptions to Cittaslow International, a proposal was submitted to the last meeting of Cittaslow International, by Cittaslow UK with the support of the Nordic and Australian networks, to replace the existing fee structure with a licence arrangement whereby national networks could retain a much greater proportion of the subscription income to help develop those national networks. The outcome of this submission has yet to be confirmed.

(3) Cittaslow UK is also hosting its first National Conference at Berwick on Tweed on Saturday October 10, as indicated in the Chair’s July circulation. PM is overseas at that date and asked all concerned to review their scheduled commitments, to ensure Linlithgow representation if at all possible. Action:All

• Linlithgow Bag for Life Campaign-PM advised that Linlithgow Bag was launched at Rotary Fun Day in June with a give away of approximately 150 bags, which provoked a very positive response. The following week orders were delivered to 12 independent retailers in the High St, several of which have re-ordered since. PM has also done follow up approaches with sample bags to 13 additional outlets(primarily branches of national outlets) and is awaiting a response. Re-ordering from the initial stock is being co-ordinated by PM-once that stock is exhausted Ann Daly at Go Green Bags has agreed to co-ordinate further supplies. JL reported in amongst the generally positive feedback, she had heard that the predominantly white background should be reconsidered for any future orders. Action: Noted; PM to chase up responses from ‘national’ outlets

3. Cittaslow Linlithgow- The Way Forward

PM reiterated the key concerns/issues set out in his July circulation and while stressing his personal commitment to Cittaslow Linlithgow, invited the Group to air their thoughts regarding the future role for Cittaslow Linlithgow. Following wide ranging discussion it was agreed:

• Given our limited resources both financial and personnel we need to be pragmatic in how we allocate these resources
• Cittaslow Linlithgow needs to focus on a limited range of deliverable issues/projects, preferably in partnership with other relevant specialist interest groups in the town
• We need to ‘benchmark’ ourselves against other Cittaslow UK towns to ascertain how our resources compare and to get pointers on how best to build up/increase that resource base Action:PM
• In consultation with other specialist groups we should look to promote projects directly related to the 6 Cittaslow key criteria, and seek to develop a town matrix, identifying how and where each of these initiatives fit into the overall picture/jigsaw of different initiatives which collectively contribute to Linlithgow’s ongoing development as a ‘Cittaslow based’ community

Action:All

• While recognising that such an exercise will be a lengthy process, as a first stage KR/ JL/ay agreed to focus on aspects of tourism development, with a view to linking up with relevant Groups such as the Heritage Trail to help ensure that their objectives/programmes are compatible with broader Cittaslow principles of sustainability etc Action:KR/JL/AY
• In due course other groups to be approached will include Civic Trust, Climate Challenge,Rotary etc, but before doing so, we need to ensure that CL reps are clear on what CL can bring to such discussions, of benefit to the partner group and to the town as a whole. Action:All to consider before November meeting.
• While the need to focus our limited resources effectively was not disputed, it was felt, circumstances and resources permitting that Cittaslow itself should, when possible, promote one –off projects to help raise the profile of the Group. Such possibilities include regular targeted litter picks/development of audio Tour Guide(Action:KR to investigate further and report back), investigation of Local Currency Initiative to help local business. At this stage given our resources the idea of fundraising to help improve neglected environments within the town was not thought to be feasible. Action: All-Any additional feasible/relevant projects/initiatives to be flagged up at November meeting.

4.Raising Cittaslow Profile/Increasing Membership

PM voiced concerns that we have a very narrow support base and if we aspire to be a community wide initiative we need to attract new participants to Cittaslow Linlithgow. Group concurred, but felt that process outlined in 3 above would develop natural links which would hopefully generate higher profile, greater interest and wider participation.

As first stage in raising profile, DT agreed to undertake a freshening up of the Cittaslow Linlithgow website, as it was unanimously agreed that an out of date website speaks volumes for the vitality of any organisation. Action: DT/PM

5.Any Other Business

PM advised the Group that Rona Gold(WLC) had recently been appointed the Council’s Climate Change Officer and as a result would be relinquishing her duties as Locality Planner for Linlithgow, including participation on Cittaslow Linlithgow Steering Group. The Group recorded their appreciation of Rona’s past input and assistance and looked forward to working with her successor

6.Dates of Next Meetings

• Wenesday 4 November at 7.30pm in Lowport
• Wednesday 2 December at 7.30pm in Lowport

Cittaslow Linlithgow

Steering Group Meeting

Wednesday 18 March 2009-04-08 7.30pm at Lowport Centre

Present:Phil Murray(PM)(Chair), David Tait(DT),John Masson(JM),Jim Hay(JH),Tom Kerr(TK) Jean Long(JL),Rona Gold(RG)

1.Apologies:Alan Young,Michael Bennett,Ken Richardson

2.Minutes of Previous Meeting (18.2.09)

Minutes were approved as an accurate record; there were no matters arising.

3.Updates

· Funding-PM advised that current balance totalled £1380.00, with various room hire invoices to be paid, a potential deposit on Linlithgow ‘Bag for Life’ order to be paid, and a WLC contribution of £2000 to be received over the next few weeks; also agreed that PM should investigate potential of B+Q

potential project funding Action:Noted/PM

· Slowfood Linlithgow-In MB’s absence, PM had circulated copies of Slowfood Linlithgow Minutes as evidence of a successful first year, together with an indication of some of the scheduled events upcoming in the next few months-Slow Bread/Cheese/ Wine evenings at Epulum Action:Noted

· Cittaslow UK Minutes-PM had circulated copies of January 2009 Board Meeting Minutes for information-Action:any queries/concerns please notify PM who will ensure they are raised at next Board Meeting May 30 in York

· Cittaslow/Burgh Beautiful Springclean-PM reported that despite various approaches to relevant Burgh Beautiful designated reps, no confirmation had as yet been received re practical arrangements for April 25^th event-TK suggested that until there was definitive indication of BB’s role, we should ‘hold fire’ on any firm commitment- Action PM to liaise with Burgh Beautiful

PM also asked for names of potential CLSG participants(assuming event goes ahead), to be forwarded to him over the course of the next week

Action:All

4.Draft Constitution

PM advised only limited progress to date re incorporation of various observations/amendments arising from February discussion of most recent Draft

Action: PM to complete revisions and circulate as soon as practicable

5.Cittaslow Linlithgow Awareness Campaign

PM indicated that as first stage in this process CLSSG will combine with Slowfood Linlithgow at an information stall at Community Council ‘Getting to know you event’ at Academy on 4 April- potential volunteers to staff stall for a couple of hours please notify PM in advance………….Action:All

As follow up stage, PM to liaise with Jackie Mitchell at Gazette in run up to delivery/distribution of Linlithgow Bag for Life to maximise media coverage

Action: PM

6.Capital Budget Project Feedback from March 10 Meeting

PM had been unavailable to attend therefore DT/TK updated the group in relation to a wide range of potential projects discussed at Town Centre Management Team- a final decision on which are likely to go ahead will be made by WLC in May; potential role for CLSG as clearing house for potential community projects, as discussed at open meeting earlier in the year, will not now be required……………………………….Action:TK to keep CSLG informed of outcome/project programme

7. Linlithgow Aspires

DT advised that support is still being sought- a report on the campaign to date should be available on the Aspire website by the end of March-CSLG, given breadth of interests had previously been asked to sit on the Executive Group- further information awaited …………………………………………Action: DT

8.Any Other Competent Business

In light of concerns expressed re inadequacies of CLSG website, PM had spoken to Michael Bennett re potential amendment/re-launch; MB is not in the least ‘precious’ abouit such an approach-happy to discuss options further with DT/PM at earliest convenience- he made it clear that while the design of the website can readily be updated/upgraded, its effectiveness is dependent on provision of regular/relevant material/information and for commitment of necessary resource/time/staff to keep it fresh. All suggestions of ensuring such a resource commitment to be forwarded to PM, who in the meantime will arrange to meet again with MB/DT to ascertain the most effective way forward………………………………..Action: PM/DT/MB

9.Date of Next Meeting

15.04.2009 at 7.30pm at Lowport Centre

Cittaslow Linlithgow

Steering Group Meeting

Wed 18 Feb 2009, Lowport Centre

Present: Phil Murray(Chair)(PM),Jean Long(JL),Jim Hay(JH) Ken Richardson(KR) John Masson(JM),Tom Kerr(TK)Alan Young(AY)

1.Apologies: David Tait, Rona Gold, Michael Bennett

2.Minutes of Previous Meeting

Approved, no Matters Arising

3.Updates

• Funding-PM advised that current balance stands at £1380.00; after discussion it was agreed that PM should investigate the possibility of applying for project funding to B+Q 40^TH anniversary One World Awards Scheme; confirmation also received re availability of £2000 funding from Town Centre Management Group to allow purchase of intial stockof Linlithgow Bag for Life- PM to liaise with Craig McCorriston(WLC) re transfer of funds. Action:PM
• Linlithgow Slowfood-AGM scheduled for 18 Feb- report of outcome/programme for 2009 will be available for Steering Group info in March
• Cittaslow UK-PM advised that issues of governance/financial transparency raised at last Cittaslow UK board meeting have been raised with Cittaslow International, supported by Germany and Norwegian delegates also, as a result of which updated set of accounts have been issued
• Plastic Bags Campaign-PM submitted a guidance note/strategy document for the retailers survey, as previously requested. It was agreed that in the light of the overwhelmingly positive public response to the initiative that instead of the original lengthy questionnaire proposed, retailers should simply be presented with the key points from the public response and asked the simple question if they are prepared to participate. Retail outlets had been divided into manageable blocks and volunteers were allocated specific blocks, to be surveyed in the period up to 24 March. PM confirmed that Soroptimists Group had confirmed their support for the initiative and their willingness to participate in the retail survey- he would liaise with Soroptimists contact to team up their volunteers with CLSG volunteers and would circulate copies of briefing to all participants. Action: PM/All volunteer surveyors. PM to obtain art work from WLC re revised town logo for inclusion on bag, and also to liaise with Ann Daly re costs, timescales for delivery etc. Action:PM
• April Springclean- (Cittaslow combined with Burgh Beautiful)-Date agreed for Saturday April 25^th- liaison with Burgh Beautiful co-ordinator required re venues/ volunteers/insurance etc necessary Action:PM/JL

4.Draft Constitution

PM explained a Draft Constitution paper put together using other Cittaslow UK towns models, and invited comments. Broadly welcomed by Group as a significant step forward, subject to some adjustments e.g.

• Some realignment of objectives
• Inclusion of some form of equality/all inclusive statement regarding potential participants
• Adjustment of composition numbers to allow individual participation not just groups
• Some commitment to work towards recognised charitable status

PM welcomed this input and undertook to bring a suitably amended version to the next appropriate meeting for approval. Action:PM

5.Cittaslow Linlithgow Awareness Campaign

PM advised that in the context of the various ‘parallel’ initiatives being discussed (e.g. potential role of CSLG in Capital Budget Projects clearance, input to Linlithgow Aspires etc) he had not as yet progressed the Awareness Campaign. As soon as there was some clarity in relation to these aspects work to raise local awareness would be put in place. NB Subsequent to the Feb meeting, PM in liaison with Catriona Staddon of Linlithgow Slowfood agreed that the opportunity of the free place at the Community Council’s Getting to know You event on April 4 at the Academy should be taken up as a first step in this process of awareness raising. Any volunteers to help staff the stall 10am-4pm please get in touch with PM……………..Action All

6.Capital Budget Projects Meeting Feedback

JH summarised outcome of earlier meeting of a range of local groups emphasising their collective willingness to subsume their own individual aspirations into more focused expenditure for the good of the town as a whole, and their collective agreement that Cittaslow Linlithgow given its breadth of interest in a wide range of initiatives would be well placed to take on a ‘clearing house ‘ role in assessment of potential benefits of projects before they are submitted to WLC for funding.

There were some expressions of concern within the Group about Cittaslow taking on this role, which had also been echoed outwith the group(e.g. John Aitken’s e mail response to the proposal) while TK emphasised that as part of the democratic process the final decisions on submitted projects would rest with the Linlithgow Area Committee. JM expressed concern that there were too many groups getting involved at pre project stage rather than progressing projects to delivery stage, and it was agreed that there was a need for clarification of the roles of the Town Centre Management Group the Area Committee Cittaslow and Linlithgow Aspires in this context.

TK expressed his concern that to date so few projects had actually been put forward for consideration, and advised that a meeting of all prospective project applicantS had been scheduled for March 10 in order that progress can be made, without which there is a risk that available funds will be lost to competing communities

Action: Outcome of March 10 meeting and implications for any formal role for Cittaslow Linlithgow to be fed back to next meeting Action:TK

7.Progress of Linlithgow Aspires Initaiative

In a brief report it was indicated that the Linlithgow Aspires co-ordinator was undertaking an investigation of local groups/individuals who might wish to be involved in the process of evolving a long term development strategy for Linlithgow. Interested parties have been asked to register their interested by the end of March

Action: DT/JH/PM to keep group informed of progress

8. Any Other Competent Business

• KR indicated that Linlithgow Rugby Club was potential host for events/photo sessions which might provide a stalls opportunity to increase awareness of Cittaslow
• JL expressed concern that we are not making enough of the Cittaslow Linlithgow website/blog opportunity and that there needs to be a review of how it should best be maintained/supervised/content made up to date and meaningful. Potentially we should tap into John Aitken’s experience of how best it should be re launched , having first ascertained from MB to what extent his new commitments will allow him to remain actively involved in its development. Action: PM to sound out MB initially

9.Date of Next Meeting

Wed 18 March 7.30pm Lowport Centre

Cittaslow Linlithgow Steering Group

19.1.09

7.30pm Low Port Centre

Present: Phil Murray (Chair)(PM),David Tait (DT) Tom Kerr(TK) Jean Long(JL) Rona Gold(RG) Ken Richardson(KR)

1.Apologies:Jim Hay(JH),John Masson (JM),Alan Young(AY),Michael Bennett(MB)

2.Minutes of Previous Meeting

Minutes agreed as accurate record-no matters arising

3.Updates

• Finance: PM advised that our long submitted cheque for Cittaslow assessment day fee plus our initial year’s membership, had now been cashed by Cittaslow UK; other recent expenditure included room hire and travel expenses for PM to attend Cittaslow UK meeting in York; current balance ££1391.46
• Slowfood Linlithgow-no report due to MB’s non availability; PM to ask MB to provide a regular written update if his schedule prevents regular attendance at Steering Group meetings Action: PM
• Plastic Bags Campaign; PM reported headline findings from pre Christmas shoppers’ survey which indicated overwhelming support for minimising use of plastic bags in Linlithgow; next stage is to prepare a strategy for a retailers survey to ascertain their requirements and to secure funding for an initial supply of an agreed design and specification bag; TK confirmed that via Town Centre Management Group Capital Programme such funding should be available; KR has pursued this successfully within TCMG Action: PM to develop survey strategy(numbers of surveyors/number of outlets/timetable) for consideration at next meeting;(NB 1:Soroptimists Group has offered to assist in survey process; NB 2-‘town logo’ currently under consideration for Town Centre banners could potentially be adapted for the bag-for-life)
• Cittaslow UK: PM reported on key outcomes of initial meeting of Cittaslow UK attended in York 17.1.09, including re-establishment of Cittaslow UK as Community Interest Company limited by guarantee, of which individual representatives of all UK Cittaslow towns are designated Directors; PM’s role as Director on behalf of Cittaslow Linlithgow was endorsed by the meeting; general dissatisfaction with the governance of Cittaslow International, particularly in relation to collection of fees and what individual towns get out of the international organisation; the agreement to have a co-ordinated Springclean event in all Cittaslow UK towns in April. Action: Agreed that PM should maintain attendance at Cittaslow UK meetings as appropriate, feed in information/concerns on behalf of Cittaslow Linlithgow and report back key outcomes/decisions…….Action:PM

Re Springclean PM to liaise with Leslie Aitken Burgh Beautiful…Action: PM

4. Cittaslow Linlithgow-The Way Forward

Discussion continued over the strategic direction for Cittaslow Linlithgow, as a result of which it was agreed that an Awareness Campaign was necessary using all appropriate media to help attract wider interest/participants/associates/supporters for Cittaslow Linlithgow.

Action: PM to prepare appropriate strategy for consideration by next appropriate meeting of Steering Group, reflecting so far as possible the discussions to date, including the Draft Vision statement/objectives/KR’s analysis of potential actions/potential relationship with the ‘SUN’ group(Linlithgow Aspires).

PM asked DT to update the group re progress with Linlithgow Aspires-he reported that there is now a Project Manager in place (Big Town Plan), who will shortly be launching a website to ascertain breadth of support for the initiative over the course of Feb/March; if successful, intention is establish a framework to take the long view 15/20 years for the future development of the town. Cittaslow Linlithgow will be invited to future information meeting with Civic Trust/LUCS

…………………………………………………………………….Action: DT

5.Any Other Business

• Reflecting the discussion under Item 4 JL stressed the importance of attracting in other groups within Linlithgow as associates of Cittaslow to help raise the collective profile………………………….Action:Agreed
• JL also expressed wish to see Cittaslow Linlithgow website made more user friendly perhaps by direct tie in with Linlithgow.com

Action: JL/KR to investigate possible options for such a link

• RG advised that What’s On booklet for April-September period currently being prepared by Hazel Hay; opportunity for Cittaslow Linlithgow to raise its profile?
• Amber Watch Signs- concern was expressed about potential implications of this proposal, as a result of which paper to be submitted to next TCMG

…………………………………………………………………….Action: PM

• Linlithgow Climate Challenge Funding-Success of funding bid (£93k) noted

6. Date of Next Meeting

Wednesday 18 February 7.30pm Low Port Centre

Cittaslow Linlithgow

Steering Group Meeting 16.12.08

Lowport Centre 7.30pm

Present: Phil Murray(PM)(Chair),David Tait(DT), Tom Kerr(TK), Jim Hay(JH) Alan Young(AY), Ken Richardson(KR)

1.Apologies: John Masson (JM),Michael Bennett,(MB),Jean Long(JL)

2.Minutes of Previous Meeting 17.11.08

These were accepted as an accurate record , and there were no specific matters arising.

3.Updates

• PM advised that the only outgoings in the previous month related to room hire costs; he anticipated that Cittaslow Linlithgow’s annual fee to Cittaslow UK forwarded on request in mid summer should be cashed in the near future, the company restructuring having progressed significantly. Action: PM to monitor
• Slowfood Linlithgow –no report in MB’s absence
• Plastic Bags Shoppers Survey carried out at 2 locations(Cross/Regent’s Square 6.12.08. Initial analysis suggests significant support for objectives of minimising plastic bag use; further analysis to be reported to next meeting, together with programme for retail outlets survey/ alternative bag identification etc Action: PM to report further
• Cittaslow UK- next meeting of all UK designated Cittaslow towns scheduled for York 17.1.09-agreed that PM should attend on behalf of Linlithgow and report back to next Steering Group Action: PM to attend

4.Cittaslow Linlithgow – The Way Forward

PM reminded the group that following the November discussion, it had been agreed that KR/AY would co-ordinate preparation of an analysis of Areas of Focus for Cittaslow to become actively involved, for discussion, and that DT/JH would report on their further thinking/investigations re the possible umbrella role for Cittalow Linlithgow following the SUN meeting

KR explained the thinking behind his analysis, in terms of Key Actions, priority areas, where the gaps are in terms of Linlithgow’s assessment in relation to each of the 6 key criteria, and highlighted prospective individual champions for each of these issues, who could be responsible for trying to co-ordinate improvement in existing scores

General discussion ensued, some of the key points arising therefrom included:

• The need for an awareness campaign to encourage new blood into the CL Steering Group- at the moment we are talking to ourselves
• We need to focus on what needs to be done, not on what has been done or is already being implemented- the latter brings no added value to the initiative
• TK sees a role for CL as a ‘clearing house’ by means of which the impact of a whole series of ongoing initiatives, in the context of how compliant they are with Cittaslow objectives, can be assessed; other groups and agencies actively pursuing such individual projects/initiatives would have to be made aware of the agreed Cittaslow vision, in order that they might buy into such a process/become Cittaslow ‘associates’? given the significant role of WLC in implementing a range of Cittaslow relevant initiatives, it might be worth considering expanding WLC representation on CL to include as well as JM, IN HIS town Centre Manager role, but also Rona Gold in her Locality Planning role. Action: TK to investigate possibility of additional WLC representation
• It was agreed that all would give further consideration to KR/AY’s initial analysis with a view to this being finalised at the earliest possible stage in 2009.
• JH asked that the next meeting should aim to agree a Vision/Mission/Culture statement for Linlithgow, based not on any additional expansive paper but on a series of key bulletpoints to be suggested by individual Steering Group members in advance of the January 09 meeting (max one side of A4), the agreed statement in due course to form the basis of the proposed Awareness Campaign directed at organisations/individuals within Linlithgow Action:All
• In relation to the development of the prospective umbrella role for CL, DT advised that while some progress had been made in terms of further meetings with WLC, issues of resources/awareness remained to be addressed effectively- the initiative remains ‘work in progress’ and will be reported on at future meetings. Action: DT/JH

6. Any Other Business

There being no additional items of business, the Chair thanked all members for their contribution over the year and closed the meeting at 9.25pm, with good wishes for the festive season.

7.Date of Next Meeting

Monday 19 January 2009 at 7.30 pm Lowport Centre(not 12 Jan as originally intended).

Cittaslow Linlithgow Steering Group

Meeting on Monday 17 November

Lab 2, Low Port Centre 7.15pm

Present: Phil Murray (PM)(Chair),David Tait(DT),Jim Hay(JH), Jean Long(JL), Alan Young(AY),Ken Richardson(KR),

Also attending: Provost Tom Kerr(TK)

1.Apologies: Michael Bennett (MB) John Masson (JM)

2. Minutes of Previous Meeting 20.10.08

Agreed as an accurate record- no matters arising

3.Updates

• Finances-Account largely unchanged other than costs of meeting room hire-current balance -£1485.00
• Slowfood-No report in MB’s absence
• Plastic Bags campaign – PM reported on outcome of pilot shoppers survey conducted at a very wet October Farmers Market, namely limited numerical response but strong support for the campaign objectives. After discussion it was agreed that a full survey of shoppers be conducted on Saturday 6^th December at 3 locations(Regent Centre/Cross area/Sainsbury Retail Park area. PM will prepare adequate survey forms and asked any volunteers to advise him of their availability for the survey period (9.30-11.30am). At JL’s suggestion, Soroptimists Group also to be contacted to ascertain their support/availability. Action: PM
• LivCom Awards; PM/TK reported on the outcome of WLC submission on behalf of Linlithgow to the LivCom Awards Finals in China in early November, where Linlithgow achieved a Bronze Award. The event provided an opportunity to raise the international profile of Linlithgow, established relevant links with a range of communities world wide with similar concerns and issues, and demonstrated a range of initiatives and projects some of which have the potential to be applied in a Linlithgow context. Full debrief of visit, its pluses and minuses to be held by WLC pre Christmas Action: PM/TK

4. Cittaslow Linlithgow - The Way Forward

PM summarised the outcome of the previous month’s discussion on this issue which focused upon the potential role for Cittaslow Linlithgow as a key component, on behalf of the community, in the proposed establishment of a four element (community/business/academia/public sector) Action Group, charged with the preparation of long term-15-20 year development strategy for the town. This proposal has been developed by DT/JH in the light of the autumn meeting at SUN of various interested community groups and individuals.

Following a re-iteration of the key points of the proposal from DT/JH for the benefit of those who were absent from the October meeting, lengthy and passionate discussion ensued, the key points arising from which included the following:

• DT/JH are convinced that their proposed strategy presents a real opportunity for Cittaslow to raise its profile/status as a group capable of reflecting the broad views/acting as an ‘ umbrella’ organisation on behalf of the community element of the proposed Action Group
• DT/JH emphasised their view that many of the 6 criteria groupings against which Linlithgow’s Cittaslow bid was assessed are already the focus remit of a range of existing organisations (e.g Civic Trust/Heritage Trust/Linlithgow Climate Challenge Group etc), as a result of which there is a natural synergy which could be utilised to everyone’s benefit. Individual organisations could continue to pursue these remits with the only change being that they would be invited to form part of an expanded Cittaslow Linlithgow Steering Group, in order that all participants on the latter are aware of ongoing initiatives and achievements, have the opportunity to offer practical assistance where appropriate, to minimise risk of duplication of effort and resources, and, hopefully, to add value to individual organisations’ efforts to improve different aspects of Linlithgow’s environment.
• In response to concerns expressed by AY about the role and objectives of the proposed Action Group, DT/JH indicated that the remit is to undertake the preparation of a community strategy regarding the long term development of Linlithgow, and where people see Linlithgow in 15-20 years; such an initiative is not a short term fix, but is intended to be a practical and achievable response to the drive, at both national and local political level, for increased community planning and greater subsidiarity, in terms of devolving decision making to the most practical local level. AY continued to express reservations about the relationship between the proposed Action Group and existing statutory documents such as the West Lothian Local Plan. DT acknowledged that fact, but emphasised that the remit of the Action Group would, so far as input to WLC strategic thinking is concerned, be focused on the next round of Strategic and Local Development Plans to be prepared over the next 5 years. AY also raised the issue of the potential relationship with the Town Centre Management Group
• TK indicated that while WLC reps had had initial discussions with DT/JH regarding the proposed initiative, and had expressed support in principle, the Council had yet to consider, let alone approve any formal report setting out the details of the proposal, its structures, objectives, resourcing and operation. Until such time as it did, the Council’s approved Local Plan would retain its primacy in relation to the longer term development aspirations of any community within West Lothian. He requested that he be involved in any further discussions between DT/JH and WLC on this issue.
• KR apologised for his enforced absence from recent Steering Group; he re-iterated his view expressed at earlier meetings, that Cittaslow Linlithgow Steering Group has first to articulate its own objectives, what initiatives it wishes to take forward, either individually or in partnership with other Groups/agencies, based on achieving progress in relation to relevant assessment criteria. This, in KR’s view, should be the key priority for Cittaslow, with any wider responsibility such as the ‘umbrella’ role within the Action Group structure, as advocated by DT/JH, evolving from the delivery of those objectives. Until such time as that point is reached, the Town Centre Management Group, given its ‘broad church’ membership profile, should be capable of performing the ‘umbrella’ role on behalf of the Linlithgow community. KR acknowledged the merits, in a Linlithgow context, of trying to get the community, with its wealth of local groups and organisations ‘to speak with one voice’ on strategic issues, but emphasised that such a role pre-supposes clarity and agreement on our own part on what Cittaslow Linlithgow’s objectives are, and how they might relate to other community groups’, in order that they have confidence in Cittaslow Linlithgow’s suitability to fulfil the proposed ‘umbrella’ role on their behalf.
• JL ,supported by AY, voiced ‘political’ (with a small ’p’) concerns about Cittaslow Linlithgow setting themselves up as an ‘umbrella’ community voice, with as yet, no track record of achievement on the ground, beyond the delivery of a successful Cittaslow bid. Until such time as that track record of achievements was delivered, whether by means of the Plastic Bag Campaign or via other initiatives designed to help maintain and enhance the town’s Cittaslow status, it seems premature/presumptuous to present Cittaslow as the ‘self-appointed’ voice of the community.
• In response to these concerns, DT expressed the view that the very fact that Cittaslow Linlithgow would be coming into such a structure without any preconceived ideas or historical ‘baggage’ , in terms of its relationship either with public agencies or other community groups, should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness; JH, in supporting this view, stressed the ‘natural fit’ between the generic objectives of the Cittaslow movement, as spelt out in the 6 categories of assessment criteria, and the specific objectives of the individual existing community groups working in the fields of heritage management, tourism development, cultural awareness, environmental management and enhancement etc, which would effectively form the ‘constituency’ for Cittaslow Linlithgow in its ‘umbrella’ role.
• DT advised the Group that in the period since the SUN meeting, in developing the proposed structure for the Action Group, he and JH had taken the opportunity to meet with WLC officials, and with representatives of a number of existing community organisations within Linlithgow, and had been reassured by the breadth and depth of support for the proposal, including the prospective role of Cittaslow Linlithgow.
• In conclusion, DT re-iterated his view that the Action Group proposal presented a major opportunity for the Linlithgow community as a whole to take more direct control over its long term development strategy, and for Cittaslow Linlithgow specifically to position itself as a key player in that process. He accepted that there was a need for further persuasion, given the valid concerns expressed by colleagues, and undertook to revise/review the presentation to address these issues. He did however point out to colleagues that since achieving Cittaslow status 6 months ago , any momentum has been dependent on the sustained efforts of a dwindling number of Steering Group participants, with no breadth of support established. By pursuing the Action Group proposal he and JH believe that Cittaslow Linlithgow could attract ‘new blood’ of committed organisation representatives, who could bring added momentum, new ideas etc to the benefit of their own organisations, Cittaslow Linlithgow, and of the town as a whole- is there any alternative ‘direction of travel’ on the table?

At that point, with this challenging question fresh in people’s minds, the Chair attempted to summarise some of the key issues arising from the discussion as set out above; he expressed the view that while there are clearly divergent views on the way forward for Cittaslow Linlithgow, and that nobody disputes the benefits of a co-ordinated community voice on behalf of Linlithgow, the credibility of the group taking on any such co-ordination role must be well established, if it is to have the sustained support and backing of the community.

Cognisance must also be taken of the relationship between any Action Group initiative and the existing statutory development plan, and of the need, if Cittaslow Linlithgow were in due course, to take on the umbrella role, to make sure that it was sufficiently resourced to ensure the delivery of an effective service. In the light of the genuine reservations expressed in the course of the discussion a number of issues require to be addressed.

DT/JH undertook to revisit their presentation of the proposal specifically to address the issues raised; at the same time, in order that a degree of clarity/agreement can be reached regarding Cittaslow Linlithgow’s own objectives, KR undertook to co-ordinate the identification by all Steering Group members, from the original assessment criteria document, of what they see as the key priority objectives to be addressed by Cittaslow Linlithgow, the outcome of which will be considered at the next meeting. Action: DT/JH; KR;All

The Chair thanked TK for making time to attend, and all Steering Group members for their input, and closed the meeting at 9.25pm

Date of Next Meeting: Tuesday 16 December (Time/Venue to be confirmed depending on availability)

Cittaslow Linlithgow

Meeting of Steering Group

15.9.08

Low Port Centre, Linlithgow 7.15pm

Present: Phil Murray(PM)(Chair),John Masson (JM), JL(Jean Long)Jim Hay(JH), Catriona Staddon (CS), Ann Daly(AD)

1.Apologies: David Tait,Alan Young,Ken Richardson, Michael Bennett

2.Plastic Bag Free Campaign

PM introduced AD to the Group and invited her to speak on her past experience from both a community and commercial perspective of similar campaigns elsewhere. In a wide ranging and informative presentation, AD outlined the key elements of such campaigns, including the options available to replace single use plastic bags, the importance of preparatory work and of co-ordinated publicity and information dissemination, the various replacement bag specifications, design constraints, sponsorship potential, the need for a realistic campaign timetable, the need to spend time with individual retailers to ascertain their current ‘bag practice’ and their specific needs in terms of any replacement bag. In the course of lengthy subsequent discussion, PM circulated a revised Draft Strategy Framework for information, which he intends to amend further in the light of AD’s advice. Action: PM

PM has also established contact with Banchory Campaign co-ordinator (the most recent successful campaign in Scotland) and will also seek advice from Selkirk, who went ‘plastic bag free’ in Spring 2008. Action: PM

JH indicated that LBA could potentially play a role at the appropriate stage, in the proposed survey of retailers, and in the establishment/maintenance of procedures to ensure the ready availability of adequate stocks of the agreed replacement bags, while the Group as a whole confirmed their willingness to participate in street surveys, relevant publicity measures, launch event preparations etc. Action(in due course): All

JM will undertake to investigate the possible use of WLC’s Town Centres Capital Fund to assist in the purchase of the initial stock of alternative bags(indicative costs-currently approx £1800 for 2000 bags Action:JM

AD indicated that while her existing commitments will prevent her taking an active role in the campaign, she is happy, time permitting, to assist with advice, contacts, guidance and professional input on an ad hoc basis Action:AD

PM confirmed that the Linlithgow Climate Change Waste Minimisation Sub Group had also expressed their support for such a campaign. It was also suggested that an approach be made to other known campaign ‘enthusiasts’ to get them actively involved Action: PM

PM thanked AD for her input and offer of continued support, and in the light of the discussion undertook to revise the strategy document, putting as much ‘flesh on the bones’ as can be done at this stage. Action:PM

3.Minutes of Previous Meeting (18.8.09)

Agreed as an accurate record-No Matters Arising

4.Update Reports

• Funding – PM reported that only outlay since last meeting was hire of LowPort meeting facility (£8.75 per session) Current Balance: £1454.80
• Slowfood Linlithgow – CS advised that previously proposed link up between Slowfood and Linlithgow Folk Festival proved impractical due to differing expectations and concern on part of Slowfood that they could inadvertently take business away from existing outlets.Slowfood intend to continue successful sampling days in association with Farmers’Market. Also will investigate possibility of stall at Advent Fayre in November and are looking at the possibility of a fund raising Slowfood lunch/raffle early in New Year. For the benefit of the Group CS also outlined the independent status of Slowfood, and its requirements to adhere to a set of defined criteria/regulations, but confirmed that there remains a core tie-in with Cittaslow, based on common interests and concerns, not simply on the requirement for any Cittaslow town to have a Slowfood convivium in place.

Action: CS

• Constitution Preparation-In response to PM’s previously circulated draft as discussed in August, JH outlined an alternative approach in which Cittaslow Linlithgow takes on a catalyst role for a whole range of local groups/initiatives stemming from the community, effectively representing the community ‘constituency’ together with the Business, Academic and Public Sector ‘constituencies’ in working towards a 20 year Vision for Linlithgow (stemming in part from earlier ‘constitution’ discussions PM/DT/JH/KR and in part from the SUN meeting on 8.9.08). This approach provoked considerable interest and discussion, implying as it does an altogether higher profile role for Cittaslow Linlithgow than was originally envisaged, changing the whole basis of potential Cittaslow Champions/Supporters/Membership as set out previously, and requiring a very significant level of dialogue /interaction/co-ordination between respective community groups. JH indicated that this is very much ‘work in progress’ and in the light of initial interest/comments/further deliberations, undertook to develop his ideas for consideration at a future meeting. Action:JH
• External Liaison – PM advised that, in response to requests from the Allotments Group and Linlithgow Climate Challenge Group for support for their respective submissions to WLC and the Climate Challenge Fund, he had sent appropriate letters of support on behalf of Cittaslow Linlithgow.
• Publicity/Website- In MB/DTs absence, discussion on this issue was limited; however the question of whether the Cittaslow Linlithgow website could readily sit within the linlithgow .com website, with potentially more impact and an ‘in built’ editorial capability (subject to negotiation) was raised; the implications of such a strategy need to be further discussed with MB before any procedural change is proposed. Action: PM/MB

5.Feedback from SUN debate 8.9.08

Time constraints prevented a full discussion of this Item. Those present who had attended confirmed that it had been a constructive session-further feedback/outcomes to be reported at next meeting Action: JH/DT/JL

6.Any Other Business

No items raised

7.Dates of Next Meetings

Monday October 13, Monday November 10, 7.15 Lab 2,Low Port Centre