Below you’ll find the minutes of Dalwhinnie Community Council meetings, posted in descending date order.

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 3rd July 2023 at 18:00hrs in the Village Hall

Dalwhinnie Community Council Minutes

Date: Monday 3rd July 2023

Time: 1800hrs

In attendance

Jen Dickinson, Simon Conroy, Nicola Penny, David Haggarty, Lee Cleghorn, Lesley Carr, Liam Ward (British Transport Police)

Apologies

Muriel Cockburn (HC), Fiona McInally (CNP)

Declaration of interest/intentions

No declarations were made

Approval of minutes

The minutes of the meeting 15th May 2023 were proposed by Simon Conroy and seconded by David Haggarty

Treasurers report

• • Current Balance at 3rd July 2023 – £9,545.06
  • Two payments since previous update – £85 to Nathan Grant for grass cutting of Station Road and £12 to Calico for the Domain name of Dalwhinnie Voices

Matters arising

• • Network Rail – Liam Ward of British Transport Police joined the meeting via Zoom and although he has now moved on to a new role, he was involved at the beginning when the gates were padlocked. There are now people walking inside the fence line and photos have been supplied in evidence of this. The safety issue is worse now than before the gates were locked. The people seen have been of various ages and is not isolated to any particular group. It is now more dangerous than before and today visitors were seen lifting bicycles over the fence and then climbing over, all in front of the CCTV. BTP are impartial and transparent, they are a body to serve the public and not just work on NR behalf. LW has been doing research and has found information regarding the 1973 limitations which shows that 20 years of continuous right of way means this cannot be challenged. BTP point of view is that there is no offence committed in regards trespass so there would be no prosecutions. In 2013 the Joint Law Commission looked at rights of way at level crossings. A recommendation to change the law was not carried out. JD has forwarded details to key stakeholders including Scotways/Ramblers Association. Land belonging to Ian Phillips adjacent to the railway was suggested as an option for a footpath but NR have made no approach to him, however a NR contractor over Easter weekend apparently sent people across his land without permission. The fence which people are climbing is owned by NR. Local residents had been advising visitors to go via IP land, however the gate has been padlocked by the owner and the code for this is for resident access only and not to be shared to anyone else. NR settled out of court with the Ramblers Association at the 11th hour over the freedom of information act to gain information on the number of fatalities at level crossings which were not suicide. The detail obtained advised that there were zero fatalities. If NR continue to padlock other private crossings this would amount to 70% of level crossings in Scotland. There has been a lot of use of the crossing and it is believed that the crossing is mentioned from the hillwalkers car park in a book relating to munro’s. Mountaineering Scotland are looking to put a notice in their publication regarding this. We need to continue asking people to fill out the Scotways survey.
  • DCC Help – A notice will be published on FB regarding assistance required and search for new members/chairperson/treasurer or even people just willing to take on projects
  • VABS – LC and DH attended the meeting to share the proposals from the questionnaire for the village future. There was poor attendance and was only put on for one night not two. There were 30 replies out of a polling register of 95 (2022 figures). Karen Derrick is currently preparing the report.
  • RSE – Looking to have an open day in July/August. It is suggested that this would be best held late pm/early evening to give as many people as possible an opportunity to attend. Dates to be discussed with the site manager. NR are continuing to say they had a permit for the removal of water from the standpipe at the bottom of Station Road. Scottish Water have advised that nobody has a permit to take water from Dalwhinnie and anyone seen doing so should be challenged. There is a potential £20,000 fine for taking water unlawfully
  • Old Grampian Hotel Site – DH spoke to the owner regarding the sale of the derelict land on Station Road. They have advised that they are not willing to sell this or do anything with it currently. There is legislation which can force a landowner to sell unused/derelict land which could be looked into. The land was tidied up last in 2020. LC advised that in the DCDT constitution a clause is contained which would allow the community to acquire land for village use. MC would be interested in purchasing this land if available. LC suggested that ground used as allotments/polytunnel for village use would be a benefit
  • Dalwhinnie Maintenance
    • Litter signs are now with JD
    • A new litter pick to be organised for Sunday 9th July. It was suggested that it could be worth approaching the HCC for volunteers on community service to come to the village to help with litter clearance
    • Winter lights have now been disconnected
    • Village website – no further update. The deadline for assistance that was offered was missed and had a high take up rate. There is a need to look for further grants in order to re-do the site and the content needs to be updated
    • Memorial maintenance – nothing further to report
    • Red Cross have not been in contact to collect their tins, we will keep for November 2023 collections.
    • Village planters – new plants had been added by JD, however due to the dry weather these have not survived. DH to look at water carriers for the back of his van to enable watering to be carried out
    • Station Road grass cutting to be carried out as required. MC to liaise with Nathan Grant
    • LC to ask DCDT to contribute to village maintenance
  • CNPA – nobody present to present an update. JD to talk to CNPA about paths, particularly to Laggan which would increase visitors to the village and provide better access to other areas
  • Bonny Barrel competition – looking at Sun 27th August. JD to post on FB to establish interested numbers and dates

DCDT

• • LC is preparing an application for a regeneration grant and is looking for ideas for the village in general not just the village hall – ideas such as paint village planters, replace seats at the memorial, update village website, purchase plants, water butts etc. The proposal needs to contain 4 supporting reasons for each ask.

• • Village pantomime looks to be going ahead. Sophie Gault to be approached and other local lady to support with organizing

• • Village Hall AGM has trustees in place, Alan Dawson – Chair, Ian Phillips – Treasurer and Susan Lister – Secretary, LC – supporting with grant applications. Village Hall are looking for other events to hold

Planning matters

• • Mobile home/Campervan park application is now with HC. The notice was not received by DCC as it was sent to the incorrect address, an extension to respond was given due to this. Within the current plan there is no mention of recycling on site, this needs to be clarified to establish if it is being moved to still accommodate for residents. DCC had been contacted by a Highland resident regarding mess left by campervans, a chemical waste disposal would be needed, would this be open to the public even at a charge and would toilets be open to the public?

AOB

• • The garage has now been granted an off licence
  • A mobile pizza van does visits to villages and includes the distillery but LC not aware of this being on a regular time each week
  • Concerns were raised over the fencing round the field belonging to Ardverikie Estate where the cattle have now been put.

Next meeting dates (proposed)

• • Tuesday 29th August 2023
  • Monday 2nd October 2023 (TBC)
  • Monday 6th November 2023 (TBC)
  • Monday 4th December 2023 (TBC)

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 15th May 2023 at 18:00hrs in the Village Hall

Dalwhinnie Community Council Minutes

Date: Monday 15th May 2023

Time: 1800hrs

In attendance

Jen Dickinson, Simon Conroy, Nicola Penny, David Haggarty, Lee Cleghorn,

Amando Borge Izquierdo (Scottish Water)

Apologies

HCC

Declaration of interest/intentions

No declarations were made

Approval of minutes

The minutes of the meeting 13th April 2023 were proposed by Simon Conroy and seconded by David Haggarty

Treasurers report

• • Current Balance at 15th May 2023 – £9,692.52
  • One transaction since previous meeting for refreshments after AGM at The Apiary £42.43

Matters Arising

• • RSE/Scottish Water Update –
    • 4 new boreholes have been checked but the source quality was not good, the solution has been to use the 2 original sources and improve the treatment, these will be one borehole and a gravity fed system.
    • The Treatment Plant have seen delays due to SSE, connecting the power to the borehole. Waiting permission to go under the river which is with the legal department. Once done all landscaping will be finished
    • Gravity Pipe has been delayed following the Ecologist survey due to nesting birds, this will need 2-3 weeks before the chicks fledge. An adder has also been seen near the clearwater tank site, the are for the pipe will continue to be monitored. The landowner is keen for the works to be completed to allow the ground to recover. ABI has already been in contact to discuss, the pipework will take approx. 2mths to complete
    • Clearwater tank, again waiting on SSE regarding diverting a power cable, if this is not resolved this could jeopardise the progress, this needs to be concluded for June as further delays could take this in to the winter which would be an issue with the concrete below ground, this has been escalated
    • While the system is being commission, water will be delivered by tanker to the clearwater tank, this is expected to start in June and last for approximately 2 months. Concern over the water pressure and quantity during this time of year was expressed due to businesses being busy and relying on the water
    • Timescale of works – Treatment Plant June – Aug, Clearwater Tank July-Dec, the existing tank will be removed and the ground levelled, completion should be Spring/Summer 24
    • Talks of an open day at the treatment plant were discussed for residents to take place in July. Dates to be confirmed
    • A 1.2m high wooden fence will be erected at the front of the treatment plant against the road along with further planting of trees/shrubs
    • Current temporary fencing around the borehole will require a permanent solution once finished
    • Water defences – there were no previous defences in place so there is nothing to replace and this would be with the landowner and not HC
  • November sees the community council elections, all current members to stand down and community council to be voted in
  • More help is required from other volunteers, these people would not be required to become members or attend meetings but to help in other roles such as responsible for the planters – a budget is available from the council, litter pick organisers – equipment is available from the garage, own gloves required and rubbish can be left at the garage for collection, applying for grants on behalf of the community – Newtonmore Business Association have advised there is a template that can be used for these and is easy to use, Station Rd tidying – Mike Chappell is taking responsibility for organizing this with Nathan Grant
  • Ward Discretionary Fund has not been applied for yet – JD to check if this is still available
  • B&S CC Forum update from 16th March 23 – HCC have no funds and requested community councils to fund and organise further meetings
  • Local policing is an issue with just 2 police covering Elgin – Dalwhinnie with 1 manning the station
  • VABS – community questionaires will arrive on Thursday 18th May, these will need to be distributed to all households, volunteers required, copies will also be available to complete at The Apiary and online. These will need to be returned by 2nd June 23, there will then be 2 meetings on 15th and 17th May to review outcomes/plans
  • More litter signs are to be erected, JD to collect, DH to erect
  • Winter lights on Station Rd to be turned off, SC and DH to complete
  • Community website is being updated by JD. The historic website Dalwhinnie Voices will be kept, domain will be paid from funds of Past & Present book. Costs to be reviewed and new host to be considered for next time. Rebuilding of website could be something for the village plan
  • Memorial Maintenance to be discussed at next meeting
  • CNPA – invited to the meeting but no response – review at next meeting
  • Bonny Barrel Competition, judging to take place on 19th Aug 23, all entries to be completed by 12th August, one week before judging. Entry fee of £10, this allows one barrel entry per private entry and 2 barrels for businesses. Discs for the year will be needed, speak to Ainsley Fraser. A raffle will take place and prizes will be requested from local businesses – local estates, Ian Phillips, The Apiary, Dalwhinnie Deli, Deerstalker Diner. Judges and Media to be contacted and judging to be requested for the afternoon so that a BBQ at the Village Hall can take place. Deerstalker Diner to be asked if they would be able to assist, if not this will be organized by the village hall.
  • Network Rail – Gates have now gone up, this has now compromised the safety as walkers have been seen inside the fence on the embankment which is more dangerous. The signage is very confusing over phoning the signal box. There has been no response from them following contact from Kate Forbes. Scottish Government should be advising on next steps. The network rail survey on signs is very confusing. Dave Morris a access activist has responded to the survey. LC to consult. Highways Act quoted by Network Rail is not relevant in Scotland. Court action is looking likely moving forward.
  • DCDT – Gym is now running with 3 regular users and occasional others. Autumn is likely to see an increase in users. Alan Dawson now Chair, Ian Phillips, Treasurer, Susan Lister secretary, Lesley Carr Admin. Some weight equipment could be sold to recoup some funds. Pantomime in Dec 23 – Cinderella, volunteers required. £1000 contribution from DCDT for lighting/props.

Planning matters

• • No further updates on mobile home park

AOB

• • Clock at the station is now wth the horologist for repair – Jules Akel liaising on this. Highland Mainline have a fund for restoration and National Railway Heritage Trust assisting financially
  • Montgomery plaque now has a whisky barrel lid from LC for mounting this on – Angus Mundy liaising with Highland Mainline to reinstate
  • Cairngorm National Park new signs at the station
  • Royal Mail looking to reduce delivery days from 6 to 5, this will impact several businesses. Survey is online with link via Dalwhinnie Community FB page. A vote was taken by the community council and everyone was against this change

Next meeting dates (proposed)

• • Monday 3rd July 2023
  • Monday 31st July 2023
  • Monday 4th September 2023 (TBC)
  • Monday 6th November 2023 (TBC)
  • Monday 4th December 2023 (TBC)

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 3rd April 2023 at 18:00hrs

DALWHINNIE COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Date: Monday 13th March 2023

Time: 18.00

IN ATTENDANCE
Jen Dickinson, David Haggarty, Lee Cleghorn, Susan Lister, Lesley Carr, Nicola Penny
APOLOGIES
Si Conroy, Muriel Cockburn, John Bruce
DECLARATION OF INTEREST/INTENTIONS
No declarations were made

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the meeting 9th January 2023 were proposed by David Haggarty and seconded by Lee Cleghorn

TREASURER’S REPORT
Current Balance at 23rd January 2023 – £9,734.95
One transaction since previous meeting for Railway Crossing Access signage – £291.12
No income as no time to access funding has been available

MATTERS ARISING
• Covid 19 Update – no updates from Highland Council and life back to normal although cases still occurring
• DCC Secretary – Nicola Penny now in this position following co-opting to the committee at January 23 meeting
• Bund Re-instatement at River Truim – Highland Council have not replied directly to update DCC. Highland Council are advising the flood defences are not their responsibility, however they are still monitoring the flow. Scottish Flood Forum are investigating. Lesley Carr is taking action to chase this still as the level is less than 4” below the free-board level now. The river has previously risen 13cm in an hour behind the hotel
• RSE Work Update – RSE have confirmed raising the levels and reinstating the bund. RSE have offered a tour of the works to all villagers once finished. RSE are going to liaise with the village over what types of grass/trees etc will be planted. The fencing which will be installed is specific and agreed by Highland Council
• B&S CC Forum – Jen Dickinson to attend in Aviemore on 16th March
• Ward Discretionary Fund – no application has been made and the Welfare Fund application closing date has now passed. A new list of funds available has now been issued and Lesley Carr is going to review applications to be submitted by 31 st March. Jen Dickinson is going to still make the welfare grant application in case this is still available
• Station Road – Nathan Grant is going to be carrying out the work and Jen Dickinson will pass his details to Mike Chappell (The Apriary, Station Road) who will liaise with him over the works required and to ensure the grass is cut appropriately to allow for the various plants/flowers to grow
• Litter Signs – still to be obtained. A community litter pick has been agreed for Sunday 26 th March around the village and lay-bys. There are several sets of litter picking equipment available at the garage for general use at any time (own gloves will be required). Suggest this to be done in 3 time slots, 10-12, 12-2 and 2-4. Complimentary drink and cake available after the pick at The Apiary. Highland Council not willing to supply further bins. Station Road bin is emptied with rubbish collection but bin beside the bus shelter not emptied. Dog poo bins require emptying. Rubbish signs required for the bin by the railway bridge/dam. The bins on the A9 tend to blow over and rubbish is scattered. The cycle path is very bad near the lay-bys
• CNPA – Fiona McNally invited but did not manage to attend so no updates
• Bus Service – the bus transport for students regularly does not arrive or drives past the students waiting to get on. Daisy Harrington wrote a complaint letter which has been passed to Kate Forbes office. Suggestions for a smaller bus/taxi, but these are not available. There is no light in the bus shelter on the A9 junction. For pick up at this stop pre-booking is required or risk making yourself well known as the bus approaches
• Network Rail – a meeting was held online with Jamie Eastaugh from Ben Alder estate. Kate Forbes office sent a representative. Transport Scotland chaired the meeting which was very poor and they did not allow others to speak until after the Network Rail presentation which took up most of the allocated time. Letters were only received by local residents on Friday 10 th March advising of the commencement of works to change the gate and fencing at the crossing. An email sent, advised that residents were told of the forthcoming works on the 3rd March which was not the case, meaning less that 48hrs notice was given. Scotways have asked for the gates to remain unlocked at this time due to health & safety. No update from the meeting with Jenny
Gilruth, Transport Minister. Complaint of rubbish after night time works. Residents have complained and Network Rail will be monitored by locals re rubbish
• Local Action Plan – VABS, email addresses have now been passed over
• Dalwhinnie Pantomime – ongoing support required
• DCDT – Lesley Carr is taking responsibility for the admin. New fire certificate now received and extinguishers now in situ. Gym induction will commence once everything is sorted. Padlock has been changed, key safe installed, code to be changed regularly, electricity to be paid for use.
Looking to install CCTV. Hall to also be used for a regular dog club. Suggestion for a dog show in July/August

PLANNING MATTERS
• Culra Bothy to be replaced, this will bring more visitors and require parking, Hillwalkers Car Park will be used more, railway crossing a further inconvenience. DCC to support Laggan Community Council. Ardverikie Estate have removed the swing bridge and are to replace the bridge and improved road
• No further update on the Campervan Park
• Highland Council are still refusing local planning applications for residents

AOB
• Vodafone plans are being submitted to update the phone mast on the Ben Alder estate, no impact on the village but DCC happy to support if asked
• A TV news item on the A9 dualling is being compiled and requests to hear from the village have been made for tomorrow, this will be pre-recorded and about 30mins, Jen Dickinson is hoping to speak with Fiona McDonald and Hamish Christie if they would consider taking part. It has been confirmed that the original completion date of 2025 is not going to happen as there are a lot of issues still to overcome. No completion date is now given

NEXT MEETING DATES
• AGM – Monday 3rd April 2023
• Tuesday 2nd May 2023
• Monday 5th June 2023 (date to be confirmed at AGM)
• Monday 31st July 2023

• Monday 4th September 2023 (TBC)
• Monday 6th November 2023 (TBC)
• Monday 4th December 2023 (TBC)

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 9th January 2023 at 18:00hrs in the Village Hall

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Monday 9th January 2023 – 6pm

Welcome and Apologies

Cllr John Bruce, Cllr Muriel Cockburn, Alan Dawson sent their apologies.

Attendees

Jen Dickinson (JD), Si Conroy (SC), David Haggarty (DH), Lee Cleghorn (LC), Connor Fraser (CF), Susan Lister (SL), Lesley Carr (LC), Cllr Russell Jones (RJ), Alan Birtwistle (AB)

Declaration of Interest/intentions

CF has noted an interest in the proposed Campervan Park

Previous Minutes

Approve Minutes from 5th December meeting, Proposed SC Seconded DH

Treasurer’s Report

Banking Update – 3 items since last meeting, refreshments at last meeting, Gym Matting for new gym, Bluehost security payment.

Balance 9th January 2023 – £10,026.07

Business banking through to Starling bank – SC looking into and all approved to go ahead with switch if possible.

Matters Arising – Covid 19

Covid 19 update – vaccination appointments are available online/Tel but flexibility is key.

Matters Arising

• DCC Secretary position, no-one came forward formally but Nicola Penny (NP) has offered to assist in this capacity. NP was not available to attend the meeting this week. JD Proposed to Co-opt Nicola to DCC as member, CF seconded. JD agreed to discuss managing community website updates with NP too.
• Dates for future meetings – confirmed as below
• Ward Discretionary fund – application for winter lights reimbursement, grass cutting/gardening services, gym equipment – suggested to DCDT as Health/Wellbeing, Litter/Fly tipping signs?
• Station Road – Nathan Grant offered to take on work – JD to confirm, Mike Chappell to liaise re.dates of cuts.
• New signs when Litter home signs need replacing? Also “Wildlife camera traps catch more than just wildlife” signs – for fly tipping blackspot areas? Yes good idea, JD to price up.
• CNPA Re. Liz hendersons replacement, Fiona McInally. JD confirmed awaiting response if this is correct person.
• Melgarve funding – no update from either Newtonmore CC or CNPA
• Paths update – delayed due to Q’s over Core paths… see NR crossing update.
• Funding for all abilities paths and mobility issues addressed for Health & Wellbeing in and around Dalwhinnie in light of NR actions blocking only available path… JD to approach CNPA regarding core path situation.
• RSE work and Flood defences
• JD still awaiting response from RSE/Scottish water and Highland council from email on 9th Dec, JD has reference number from HC but has chased today (9th Jan), in separate emails to RSE/Scottish water and Highland Council highlighting aspects needing addressing specific to their role.
• LCR contacted Scottish water, RSE etc and has new contact personally. Manager to visit Dalwhinnie and will meet with locals regarding concerns over works. JD asked if people are meeting RSE site staff, we allow them to give an update and proposed works, and ensure it is a positive experience, solution focused and not based around negativity as the community would rather work with RSE staff/contractors and Scottish water than against them.
• LCR also has incident/reference number for their complaint/concerns, from Highland Council, regarding flood defence checks and is awaiting an update once assessment takes place by Roads department.
• NOT DISCUSSED AT MEETING – update email received 11th Jan, posted on community facebook page, apologies and RSE site staff offer to meet residents concerned. Reassurances of returning area to condition as per before work commenced.
• College students – transport/bus service – Inverness Bus leaves 0630hrs from the Dalwhinnie service station, but is not on the stagecoach website or online timetable system. Student knows time of bus after asking driver of bus when meeting it at Newtonmore last week. No update on return service yet, again not online on stagecoach timetable. Cllr RJ will address with stagecoach.
• Network Rail, – Jenny Gilruth Transport minister meeting confirmed 18th January. Stakeholders meeting 17th January. It si possible Highland Council are looking into pursuing the reinstatement of our Core Path, which was the Drovers road over the crossing. It may take a long time, but is positive news.
• Local action plan – VABS update, they have names and emails for SC, SL, MC, LC to be included so this can begin.
• Dalwhinnie pantomime for December 2023 – volunteer helpers wanted – residents encouraged to spread the word for help/thespians for the Dalwhinnie Dec 2023 Panto Cinderella.
• DCDT – Gym update and call for local membership engagement update. Ideas around it’s use discussed, Induction with local personal trainer, disclaimer, key lockbox access, sign in/out and only electricity payments for use. SL – new DCDT secretary and process to get this started is underway.

Planning Matters

Proposed Camper/Motorhome – no further update, but survey submission pending.

Any other Business

• Dores CC regarding Aecoms project (Corrievarkie). JD contacted chair, but no response yet – so recontacted the secretary – awaiting response.
• Cllr RJ suggested Defibs training in Laggan and also link with App for maintenance help/reminders etc – JD to send CF contact details to RJ.
• Cllr RJ community hardship fund – applications open – when it’s gone, application for food vouchers for each home resident or household might be successful. Discussion around fuel vouchers and or community wood, coal/ovoid supply too but need to think on these suggestions.
• JD local police plans consultation – JD to pass email to SC to check and complete survey online or assess if it should be loaded to community page for all residents to complete/consult on.
• Dalwhinnie Voices website – Bill Carr offered to manage community website, however it is likely the new DCC secretary will do this. As he has archive photos (posting on Facebook regularly), and links to the past in Dalwhinnie understanding the history in a wider vein, would he be prepared to take on managing Dalwhinnie Voices – maybe linking with Badenoch Heritage and Dalwhinnie Community page to share and promote “Voices”.
  

Dates for Future Meetings:

Monday 13th March 2023 (Date update due to volunteer DCC member availability)

Monday 3rd April 2023 – AGM date confirmed

Tuesday 2nd May 2023

Monday 5th June 2023 – (TBC at AGM latest)

Monday 31st July 2023

Monday 4th September 2023 (TBC)

Monday 6th November 2023 (TBC)

Monday 4th December 2023 (TBC)

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 5th December 2022, at 18:00hrs

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Monday 5th December 2022 – 6pm

1. Welcome and Apologies – John Bruce and PC Rhys Stewart sent their apologies.

1. 2. Attendees – Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH), Lee Cleghorn(LC), David Haggarty(DH), Murial Cockburn (MC), Alan Dawson (AD), Alan Birtwistle (AB), Ali Smith (AS), Kate Munro (KM), Michael Chappell (MC), Lesley Carr (LCR), Connor Fraser (CF via Zoom)

1. 3. Declaration of Interest/intentions

CF has noted an interest in the proposed Campervan Park

1. 4. Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 3rd May2022 meeting, Proposed LH Seconded DH

1. 5. Treasurer’s Report

Expenses – Wreath for memorial – £28.98

Festive lights, replacement bulbs and brackets – £963.12

Memorial Social at Apiary – £63.95

Replacement bulbs for winter lights – £70.80

Nathan Grant – Grass cutting and tidy up – £300.00

Go Daddy Web Domain name fee – £14.39

Lighting team refreshments at Apiary – £14.45

Bloom and Wild Flowers – Leaving gift for Secretary – £38.00

Highland Council Payment – £412.98

Balance 5th December 2022 – £10,212.63

Bank of Scotland Business Banking V’s Online Banking

JD – Service from the current bank is not ideal. No correspondence being sent. Branch is in Aviemore. No objections raised to changing banks to online service, however, some research will need to be carried out to find a suitable replacement.

1. 6. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

Booking online for Flu Vaccinations and Covid Booster are available but very limited.

MC – will investigate but advised that most of the available options will have been taken.

7. Matters Arising

a) Lyn Haggarty, Secretary and Nigel Widgrey

Lyn has resigned from the council and moved from the area. DCC would like to take this opportunity to thank Lyn for all her help and support. There is now a vacancy for the role of Secretary. If anyone is interested or knows of anyone, please contact Jen Dickinson.

Nigel has also left the village and DCC would like to thank him for all his help and support.

b) SEPA and Highland Planning

CF- The Planning permission for the Campervan Park has now expired and they will be re-submitting a new application when SEPA has confirmed all necessary checks have been completed to their satisfaction.

JD – Raised concerns that SEPA seem to be holding all planning applications up.

MC – advised there have been problems which have now been identified and SEPA should respond ASAP.

c) College Students – Bus Facility

JD – advised a Bus service will commence in January, which will take students to Newtonmore to pick up connections for Inverness. This will include surrounding areas leaving approx 7am Local residents will also be able to use this service. This is for a trial period of 6 months. There will be a return service in the afternoon. A timetable will be available soon on the stagecoach site.

MC – we have 6 months to build on this service and suggested we promote this service for tourists via Cairngorm National Park, What’s on Magazine, The Strathy and village Noticeboard.

LCR – advised we could also promote at the Distillery.

d) Network Rail – Bill Carr’s written comments will be included with the Minutes

JD – advise the suggested footpath across Ardverikie Field up to Underpass is not a viable option. Ardverikie will stop this as they don’t own the whole field, part of the field is owned by CF. They also have a hydro agreement in place which will cross this field. Ardverikie is not the only landowner of this field from the crossing to the underpass. No landowner has been contacted by NR about using any land for any of their proposals listed in their feasibility study including the land on the west of the station, the underpass, access road, new footpath or car parks. NR stated in their study they don’t have funding for new footpaths. No stakeholder will accept the study and see it as a farce, and all have lost any trust/faith in NR. There has not been any new signage erected by NR other than that on either side of the crossing gates.

CF – advised footpath BC proposes is not the best solution and priority should be to open the Crossing rather than paying for land or trying to get permission from landowners.

JD – a Stakeholders meeting was held on the 25th October 2022 to discuss the actions of Network Rail in advance of the meeting with the MSP transport Jenny Gilruth on the 26th October. This resulted in the transport minister asking for a further meeting calling NR to the table due to various concerns in Dalwhinnie and similarities with crossings in her own constituency and elsewhere in Scotland. A further meeting is scheduled for 18th January 2023 for selected Stakeholders and Network Rail. MC has also asked if she can attend this meeting.

JD – The crossing is not closed, only the gates have been padlocked. Network Rail is using the same argument for all private crossings. If they close Dalwhinnie, NR will have the right to close the remaining 70% of all private crossings. NR have not acted responsible in this matter which may be positive for the Village. We have a strong case to get the gates unlocked.

MC – asked when was the last time CNPA came round to look at footpaths in the area? This is something they should be doing and suggested we ask them to do a visit.

MC – There is money available and suggest an all abilities path should be installed or even considered. Dalwhinnie is part of the CNPA and mobility issues should be addressed.

e) Litter Signs

JD – 20 signs initially went out, we know of 3-4 that went missing or damaged. There are still newer larger signs that need installing.

There is still an issue with fly tipping, around the surrounding areas of the village. SC advised everyone to report any fly tipping to Clearwaste Site.

f) Paths and Road Works around the Village

JD – The works are ongoing but no update to when they will be completed. We have been assured there is funding and a contract in place which will ensure the work will be completed.

SC – advised if there are any issues or emergencies elsewhere the workmen get called away.

g) Winter Lights

SC – HC were contacted to fix the sockets which were not working. This has now been completed. All the lights are now working and will remain in place until after the festive period.

LCR – BEAR promised to put lights along the main road from Garage to Distillery. JD advised BEAR was contacted and their is now a complicated request procedure and this would need to be registered, forms submitted, electricians and formal maintenance. DCC decided to concentrate on Station Road instead at this time.

h) Station Road Clean up – Start date 2023

JD – Station Road cleaned up by Nathan Grant, who recommended monthly cuts. It is difficult to find someone willing to maintain this for us. It was all agreed we would be looking to start the maintenance at the beginning of June.

LCR – agreed to contact Plantlife on our behalf for recommendations as to what seeds would be best suited to plant in this area.

i) Local Action Plan – VABS

SC – advised himself, Susan Lister and Mike Chappell will be getting a team together.

j) DCDT – Update and Information

JD – DCDT was set up as a charity in 2019. Unfortunately, The Chair and Secretary have both stood down. Leaving Ainslie Fraser, Treasurer, Jules Akle a Trustee and Alan Dawson a Trustee, and Colin Blair a trustee. They are looking for volunteers to take up the positions of Chair and Secretary.

AD – The village hall is a great asset to the village and has been looked after, however, it is not getting used. A Facebook survey was set up to ask if a gym would be something that would be of interest. This proved to be a popular option. This has been proposed to the other Trustees and enquiries will be made into getting equipment and the necessary insurance in place for this to go ahead. This is a start and we welcome any suggestions going forward for the hall to be used for other activities. Birthday parties, craft fairs, yoga class. DCC can use it for Council Meetings moving forwards.

k) Dalwhinnie Pantomime

JD – Pantomime has been postponed this year as not enough volunteers. We are hoping to put it on next year.

LCR – asked why not have a Pantomime in the Summer.

l) Village Website

We are looking for a volunteer to maintain and update the website. Please contact us if you are interested in doing this.

m) Montgomery Plaque

JD – advised Angus Munday has the plaque and is waiting for it to be mounted. Scotrail have not given permission for this to be wall mounted. Angus will chase Scotrail about this again.

LC will see if he can get the correct mount for the plaque.

n) Flood Defences

BC has asked that HC be contacted about the flood defences. HC are currently looking at Kingussie. There is flooding/water being pumped out from the water works site, which is possibly undermining any flood barrier. This is a serious issue for the houses along the river, there are 8 properties at risk. These defences are not being monitored or maintained by HC, which will cause a serious issue going forward.

There is a complaint report form on HC website which we encourage all to use to make HC aware of the issues in and around the village. The more complaints they receive the more likelihood of HC taking action.

1. 8. Planning Matters

1. 1. Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – CF- planning will be resubmitted when SEPA have completed their investigation.

AD – it seems strange when SEPA comes up that planning applications are declined. Why does SEPA not do a survey for the whole area which can be reviewed when individual applications are made, this would prevent applications being unnecessarily declined and resubmitted.

1. 9. Any other Business

A9 Dualing – JD asked if we as a Community Council support the Dualling of the A9 and are happy to support VABS who are putting pressure on Transport Scotland to get this project moving again. A letter will be sent to the Scottish Government who promised this would be completed. All DCC members present approved and will show support.

LCR – Advised Laggan is receiving funding from Melgarve Wind Farm. JD advised we had previously looked into this. However, Dalwhinnie doesn’t fit into the criteria for receiving funding.

LCR – Would like to hold a public meeting in the Village Hall to ask the residents of Dalwhinnie what they want to do about the Village Hall. Lesley would like people to tell her they want to keep the hall and what they can do to support it. AD whether a public open meeting should be held is a matter for DCDT trustees at their next meeting.

Dates for Future Meetings

Monday 9th January 2023

Monday 6th March 2023

Monday 3rd April 2023(proposed AGM date)

Monday 5th June 2023

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 3rd October 2022, at 18:00hrs

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Monday 3rd October 2022 – 6pm

1.Welcome and Apologies

Conor Fraser, Nigel Widgery and John Bruce sent their apologies.

2. Attendees – Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH), Lee Cleghorn(LC), David Haggarty (DH), Muriel Cockburn (MC), Karen Derrick (KD) and Ann Traill(AT) from Voluntary Action in Badenoch & Strathspey (VABS)

3. Declaration of Interest/intentions

None noted.

4. Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 3rd May2022 meeting, Proposed SC Seconded LH

5. Treasurer’s Report

Expenses – June/July grass cutting 2 x £25.00, paid to Nigel Widrey and Daisy Harrington.

Zurich Insurance – £166.44

Leaving present for Jo and Andy Riddell – £11.75

Balance 3rd October 2022 £11,429.94

Approve the Treasurer’s report – Proposed by DH Seconded JD

JD – advised we have not received our Highland Council funding and will chase this up.

6. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

No further issues at the moment. Vaccinations may be offered soon.

MC – NHS Inform will have all Vaccinations availability in the local area noted on their website.

7. Matters Arising
8. a) Jo Riddell

Jo has resigned from the council and moved from the area. DCC would like to take this opportunity to thank Jo for all her help and support.

We extend to both Jo and Andy our best wishes as they both embark on their new business venture in Inverness.

1. b) Highland Planning

JD – Raised concerns at the length of time planning can take. Site visits don’t happen. Decisions are made that affect other residents without consultation. Getting planning permission in Dalwhinnie is proving to be difficult, one of the reasons Andy and Jo left.

Does HC want Dalwhinnie to just die and not prosper, which will happen if development not allowed.

1. c) RSE – Water Works

The tanks are being built off site and are due to be delivered to site during next week.

1. d) Pharmacy at Newtonmore

JD – very helpful, reorder service available and recycling facility available for blister packs. You can request surgery to send repeat prescriptions to Newtonmore. More reliable than Boots the Chemist, in Kingussie.

1. e) College Students

JD – Students within the village are unable to commute to college and are relying on lifts from family and friends. Rural communities are being left out and given no options. JD has raised the issue with Kate Forbes office. MC advised this issue has been raised and on the their radar. MC recommended that JD write to Liz Henderson, Cairngorms National Park Liason.

LC – raised the issue with the train service not being fit for purpose. The trains times for stopping at Dalwhinnie doesn’t work.

KD (VABS) will also highlight this as an issue.

JD suggested a small local bus service to pick up Students in surrounding areas, then taken to Newtonmore/Kingussie to pick up connecting service.

1. f) Network Rail

JD – There is a meeting arranged for 26th October with Jenny Gilriuth, Transport Minister. A pre meeting will be held on 25th October with stakeholders to discuss the ongoing dispute of Network Rail decision to close the gate.

JD asked would DCC members be happy to have placards made with the complaint telephone number listed and for DCC to pay for these placards. No objections raised.

MC raised concerns as to where these placards would be placed. JD advised they would all be on private land.

1. g) Paths and Roadworks through Dalwhinnie

Concerns have been raised at the length of time it is taking to finish the footpaths and road upgrade through the village.

JD – BEAR have been contacted and advised the contract had been changed and they had to reapply for the contract, which resulted in all work stopping in July. Work will now commence next month. At this stage it is uncertain if the original agreed upgrades will take place as its a new contract and discussions are still taking place BEAR advised. JD is still looking for confirmation of when the work will be completed and what will be done.

MC asked to be copied in on all correspondence with BEAR.

1. h) Station Road and Area opposite Station – Clean up

JD – we arranged for an independent Grass cutter, Nathan Grant, who quoted £300.00, to come and tidy up these areas. Appointments were made and cancelled, we are still waiting for a date to be confirmed. JD will contact Mr Grant again. DCC members all agreed.

LC agreed to keep the area in front of the Hostel tidy in the meantime. We are looking for volunteers to undertake this clean up if no response is received.

1. i) Local Action Plan – VABS

KD and AT – VABS Voluntary Action in Badenoch and Strathspey is a local charitable organisation who looks to support community councils and offers help to move the village forward. They like to engage with the community given everyone the opportunity to voice their concerns. Transport, employment, childcare etc, issues that people who live and work in the community wants to see improved. Also connecting with other communities who have similar issues.

KA and AT would look at how we can get information out to the community and get feedback. The Village Hall could be used to engage with locals. KA and AT would be happy to do the work to engage locals and take the lead.

DCC is fully on board and happy to support VABS.

SC and LC agreed to be on the Steering Group VABS will set up to initially discuss ways of going forward.

1. j) DCDT – The Community Trust needs more members and volunteers or we will lose the Village Hall.

DCC fully supports the Community Trust.

1. k) Dalwhinnie Pantomime

Dalwhinnie will be presenting a pantomime again this year, “Cinderella”. It will be for two nights 9th and 10th December 2022, held in the Village Hall. Ticket price £7.00. Volunteers are required for make-up, stage creation, lighting, sound, backstage and wardrobe. If you can help in any way please make yourself known. Thank you.

8. Planning Matters

1. Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – the last survey has been completed and submitted. A decision will not be made until the next meeting, which is not until November.

9. Any other Business

We have litter picking equipment available for use kept at the garage. JD asked if we would be happy to be listed in the CNPA directory, which allows visitors to use the equipment, if they wish, when visiting the area. No objections raised.

SSEN Windfarm has been declined. The substation is no longer required to accommodate Cannechan of Dell and Cloich Wind Farms. This will be reassessed in the future if needed.

JD – Do we need more winter lights for Station Road? Some are not working and some have been taken down. It was agreed we would speak with Alan Dawson to see if existing lights can be repaired.

JD – Litter signs need to be replaced. We will look at arranging a litter pick at the end of November, weather permitting.

Dates for Future Meetings

Monday 7th November 2022

Monday 5th December 2022

Monday 9th January 2023

Monday 6th March 2023

Monday 3rd April 2023(proposed AGM date)

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Tuesday 3rd May at 18:30hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Tuesday 3rd May 2022 6:30pm

1.Welcome and Apologies

   Conor Fraser, Nigel Widgery sent their apologies. 

1. 2. Attendees –  Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH), 

  Lee Cleghorn(LC), Joanna Riddell(JR),David Haggarty(DH) 

              John Bruce (JB) Andrina Robb NHS (AR)

   

1. 3. Declaration of Interest/intentions

    None noted.

1. 4. Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 7th February 2022 meeting, Proposed SC  Seconded LH   

1. 5. Treasurer’s Report

Credits – Book Fund £20.00 from LC and £5.00 Panto Ticket added.

Debits – £110.00 AGM Costs

Spey Valley Hire, Post Crete, for erecting Take litter home signs.

Diageo – Whisky and engraved glass for Tim Atkinson’s leaving present.

Flowers for Peggy Crossman

PGS – Engraved Vase and flowers for Heather’s retirement gift.

Balance 3rd May 2022  £11,702.13

6.Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

The wearing of masks is no longer compulsory, and now discretionary.

No cases in the village. Any changes will be notified on News Channels.

AR NHS advised the wearing of masks are still required in hospitals with a 1 metre distance still applicable.   

7. Matters Arising

a) Network Rail – The crossing at Ben Alder Road to be closed 

JD – Ramblers Association have drafted an open letter in response to Network Rail’s comments about “not a public crossing”.

The options of traffic lights or automatic gates to be locked/unlocked by signal box are still our preferred options. Jenny Gilruth SNP is theTransport Minister for Scotland. Kate Forbes SNP is also still on board. We have a strong case. Protests will still happen but maybe delayed. We are still hoping Network Rail will open the gates.

b) Corrievarkie PSH Local Public Engagement – Update 

JD – Fiona Macdonald and Hamish Christie both attended the exhibition.            SC – Spoke with the team when they were up at the level crossing. It will be 2 years before the upgrade starts and can take up to 5 years to complete. It will provide a more reliable source of energy. No traffic planned to come through the village with the preferred route via the loggers road. It should be very positive for the village.                                       

c) Litter Pick

Sunday 15th May, 2022. All interested parties meet at the garage for 10am. The areas in need of attention are Crubenmore Road and the road in and out of Dalwhinnie. This will be advertised on our Facebook page.

d)  Litter Signs

SC confirmed these will be in place by 18th May, 2022 with the help of NW.

e)  Grampian Site

JD/LH – no response received from the letter we sent to the owners. 

Concerns were raised by all members the site could sit there with no development and become an eyesore. It will be difficult to get planning permission to develop the land due to the village being on a floodplain.

It was agreed by all, a follow up letter will be sent by LH in the capacity of DCC Secretary. 

f) Daffodil Planting

JD thanked David Haggarty for planting daffodils along Station Road. It was also agreed     Station Road will be left to look like wild flowering.  

g) NHS – Near Me

LH advised we were contacted by Andrina Robb from NHS, who asked for our help in publicising Near Me initiative.

AR NHS – Thank you for inviting me along. “Near Me” is a safe platform for appointments to     see a GP within your Doctors Practise. It is similar to a video call or Skype. Presently GP’s    offer phone calls or face to face appointments, this platform gives patients another option.  It can prevent having to take time off work or if childcare is an issue. It is recommended by Scottish Government, it is safe, secure and confidential. Nothing is stored or reported. All that is required is an internet connection, Ipad or computer. It is straightforward and easy to use. There are hospitals and Hospices who are already using this facility.

Help is needed to get the information out there and any suggestions will be very helpful. Posters and postcards can be sent to help with this.  

JD advised we could put posters in the Village Noticeboard and at the Village Hall. The garage may also be happy to put one up.  It will also be put on our Facebook page. There maybe an option with a mobile router, to use the village hall for “Near Me’ to hold information evenings to help explain and show how easy the application is to use.

AR NHS would be happy to arrange this for us and also happy to answer any questions.

h) NatureScot – Deer Stalking on Creag Meagaidh

JD was contacted by NatureScot, looking for any expressions of interested parties for Deer Stalking. A link will be put on our Facebook page so anyone interested can make their own decision.

i) Wildlife in the Village

DH raised concerns about the ducklings crossing the road and proposed we should put up signs to make drivers aware and slow down.. All agreed this would be a good idea.  DH agreed to speak with Connor Fraser to get signs ordered.

j) SSEN £1million Resilient Communities Grant 

JD – A generator for the Village Hall may come under this grant. It is on the back of Covid to see if any improvements can be made. However, the date for applications expired in April.             

k) Road Works/Pavements through Dalwhinnie

JD – Wrote to BEAR for an update as the verge at the Hotel had been left unfinished and messy. Reply received, works should be completed by mid July. The verges at the hotel have now been tidied up with grass seed put down.  The Scheme has grown due to the issues with drainage which involved more work than initially anticipated. Apologies were given for the time it is taken, but we are assured that it will benefit the village long term and prevent further work needing to be completed in the future.

l) Back to Work – Volunteers needed

JD advised due to work commitments of council members, volunteers are required to assist in leading projects such as litter picks etc. A list of what is required is being posted on Facebook page. If these task are not taken up, the tasks will not be completed.

8.Planning Matters

Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – no update

9. Any other Business

Thank you to JR who has kindly arranged for the graffiti on the stone at the entrance to the Cycle Path to Pitlochry to be removed and repainted. 

In light of the up and coming Local Council Elections, Dalwhinnie Community Council would like to take this opportunity to thank John Bruce and Muriel Cockburn for all their support and help over the last 2 years. 

Dates for Future Meetings

Monday 4th July 2022

Monday 5th September 2022

 

Dalwhinnie Community Council Chairperson’s Report – March 2021 to March 2022

Dalwhinnie Community Council

Chair’s report 2021-2022

March 2021 was yet another lockdown, but that didn’t deter the litter pick crew that

gathered towards the end of march adhering to social distance rules and set to sorting

out laybys and areas through Dalwhinnie as well as the improvements undertaken at the

Ben Alder Crossing Hillwalkers carpark.

A huge thanks to Phiones Estate’s Jim McKerracher & Team who coordinated the work with Ben Alder Estates Head Keeper & Team from Dalnaspital in early March 2021.

A new Logo was finalised for Dalwhinnie area created by Sarah Fisher so a big thank you

to her for her time. Local residents, businesses and community can use it to promote

Dalwhinnie businesses or local sights/attractions.

It was noted a litter pick every 2 weeks really helped to sort the issues in Spring 2021,

these reduced to once a month during summer months and stopped altogether going

into Autumn/Winter. These are due to restart later this month in line with the keep

Britain tidy campaign…. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Fly tipping in the area has noticeably increased, Locals including Ainslie Fraser cleared up

obvious issues, Residents are encouraged to please report these using the CLEAR WASTE app, on location as it links to GPS to identify landowner and exact location, if on HC land they are notified.

“Take your Litter home” signs were made and put out in layby’s parking areas, more to

go out, at least 2 have been vandalised/removed, but most are good. More are now in

stock and waiting to be put out. CNPA also looking at working on this theme with local

CC’s now.

Dog Show and Craft fairs. A number of events were held with great success, DCC

working with DCDT to ensure village hall events and fundraisers went ahead for both

DCC and DCDT.

Bonny Barrel competition also went ahead in August 2021, 4 prizes were awarded. 1 st

Best overall barrel, 2 nd Best planted barrel, 3rds Best decorated barrel, 4 th Best

novelty/imagined barrel – linking history with the current times. Income for the event & raffle covered expenses and brought a small income for DCC. Thank you to all supporters

at each estate and business in/around the village.

The lynx consultation was a good evening of discussion and information shared in what

is a contentious issue in the village hall in the autumn last year.

New lights were ordered and installed on station road, some points required

maintenance by HC which was carried out, and school signs were removed, but the

storms in November meant more maintenance is required this summer to prepare for

2022-23 winter. The lights will be taken down this month.

Drainage on station road was looked into and drains upgraded down the road by

Highland council. The Drain on the A889 was also “jetted” which helped immensely but

is required again this spring.

BEAR – Along with local truck road improvements, they are also completing drain and

footpath improvements along the A889 currently and have also managed to get a speed

limit reduction proposed and in review for the north end of Dalwhinnie, Village hall to

the Rail bridge traffic lights – Proposed to be reduced to 40MPH. The resurfacing

through Dalwhinnie Should take place in 2022-2023.

Pantomime at the village hall in Dalwhinnie!!!! A great success and requests for a 2022

production too. DCC funded scripts, costumes, Ben Alder Estate provided lighting and

many many volunteers worked hard to build & dress the stage, backdrops and actors. A huge thanks to the driving force – Sophie Gault, and what is on the cards for 2022???

Corrievarkie Public consultation arranged for Wednesday 23 rd March evening. Discussion

have already been had with DCC regarding some access works in Ben Alder Road so

current projects don’t clash.

Links made with Badenoch Shinty Memories group set up to support dementia sufferers

within the sport – there are a number of residents with links to Shinty whether as ex

players, supporters or helpers. BSMG are coming to plant trees as screening and shelter

around the turning area and hillwalkers carpark on Ben Alder Road in the coming month.

There is a list of jobs to do around Dalwhinnie to help support the Community Council. It

will be posted on the community page and in the notice board, please help if you can,

get in touch with the listed person managing the task. VOLUNTEERS are needed from

planting Daffodils to winter light maintenance and storage???

Still no update on the Camper/motorhome park for the village which is desperately

needed if the village is to improve its status in the Cairngorms National Park for

investment and any future businesses to succeed.

Finally the elephant in the room. NETWORK RAIL!!!

Padlocked an ancient drovers route contrary to the 2003 land reform act and access

rights of the public.

They did not and have not consulted with DCC or the community or any stakeholders.

Only when pushed do they answer emails, questions and arrange meetings.

They are still not communicating with DCC or stakeholders in a way that any discussions

can move forward.

A report they commissioned between meetings with stakeholders on the 21 st September

and 27 th January was drawn up to look at solutions – it started stating there is no money

for any of these – only improved signage is possible. No-one communicated with us

during that time.

The meeting on the 27 th January was a shocking representation of incompetence and

inconsiderate behaviour by Network Rail. All stakeholders were in agreement they are

behaving irresponsibly, without firm evidence or documentation of safety issues they

claim are reason for closure. Due to the blatant lies and inaccuracies given by NR, the

meeting ended with all stakeholders including Ben Alder Estate as the main private user,

and MSP’s in attendence stating there is no trust, or belief that Network Rail have any

intention of working towards a solution.

Dalwhinnie CC will be looking at a protest in May 2022 having engaged other CC’s along

the main east coast line to Berwick upon Tweed at the border. There is now evidence of

other such behaviour by NR at other locations in the UK and we are in touch with one in

particular in Yorkshire currently ongoing for 5 years.

All crossings marked as private with blue signs across the entire rail network are at risk

of such actions by NR in the future. This would impact significant swaths of access tour

remote wild places we all enjoy. We will be pushing at UK government level to have a

government policy introduced that NR cannot now be judge/jury over crossing closures

without consultation. Ministers, local councillors, communities and stakeholders must

be consulted as per NR stated policy and overseen by an independent body. The case at

the Ben Alder Crossing, Dalwhinnie is a perfect case to stop this occurring again

elsewhere and we all believe we have a high chance of implementing a change that

stop’s NR’s behaviour which has been seen elsewhere in Scotland previously.

We will need the community to come out in support for a peaceful protest in May 2022

where we will be working with BTP to ensure it is run safely and efficiently.

Ongoing Jobs to do in around Dalwhinnie

Your village, your home!

Daffodils, Jen still has 5-6 bags of 50 daffs to plant, some are good to go, half of station

road has been planted – more needs to be done – can people help in their own time?

Large Black planters x 10 along station road and A889.

Propose £10 to each adopter for them to plant in their own way?

Looking for Adopters?

To be planted April/May, and upkeep through summer.

Take your litter home signs to go out

Large parking area at Rail Bridge where A889 joins old military road x 1

Layby on A889 towards Dalwhinnie from Laggan 1-2kms from Dawlhinnie, eastbound

side x 1

Balsporran carpark x 2

Route 7 Pitlochry rock x 2

Remove small sign, and add x 2 large signs at the layby A889 towards A9 near dam.

Memorial at Station Road, lights around trees/bushes to be removed

Angus Duggie (fence work???) repairs???

Sandblasting?/Painting the metal fence

Tidy up wreaths after storms

Winter lights – take down, maintain and store??? Where is this possible? Do we order

more for 2022-23 can someone apply for a grant to pay for them this year?

2021 entrant discs to be added to each Barrel entry in 2021, and winner barrels

Identified with prize discs too.

Minutes of the AGM of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 7th March 2022 at 18:30hrs (in person@ The Lodge Bar)

Dalwhinnie Community Council AGM- Minutes

Date – Monday 7th March 2022 6:30pm

1. 1. 1. Welcome – Alan Birtwistle, Alison Smith and Ian Philp all  joined us this month.

   

1. 2. 2. Attendees –  Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH), 

  Lee Cleghorn(LC), Joanna Riddell(JR),David Haggarty(DH) 

              Nigel Widgery (NW) Conor Fraser (CF) John Bruce

   

1. 3. Declaration of Interest/intentions – None noted.

    

1. 4. 4. Previous Minutes

Approve AGM minutes from 2nd March 2021, Proposed SC  Seconded LH   

1. 5. 5. Chairperson Annual Report – See attached sheet

Delivered by JD – No questions from the floor.

1. 6. Treasurer’s Submission of Financial Report – See attached

Delivered by SC 

Balance at 1st April 2021 – £13,433.32

Add Income – £2,499.56

Less Expenditure – £3,950.13

Surplus (Deficit) for the year -£1,450.57

Balance at 31st March 2022 – £11,982.75

No Questions from the floor.

Adoption of the Treasurer’s Report, proposed by JR, Seconded by JD

1. 7. Demit and Election of Office Bearers

Chairperson – Jen Dickinson     Proposed by SC, Seconded by NW                                       Vice Chair     – Joanne Riddell   Proposed by LH, Seconded by JD              

    Treasurer      – Simon Conroy    Proposed by JR, Seconded by DH                

Secretary   –  Lyn Haggarty     Proposed by JD, Seconded by SC                  

Members   –    Conor Fraser       Proposed by JD, Seconded by SC

    David Haggarty    Proposed by SC, Seconded by JR               Nigel Widrey        Proposed by JD, Seconded by LH

Associated Member – Lee Cleghorn – Proposed by JR, Seconded by SC

1. 8. Date for next AGM – Monday 6th March 2023

No objections raised.

 

1. 9. Any Other Business

Corrievarkie PSH Public Engagement  – JD – This is a hydro scheme with a battery being located on Loch Ericht. A Public meeting is to be held in the village hall on 23rd March 2022. 

To discuss, if any, the impact this will have on the village.  JD encourages all to attend.

Derelict and neglected land opposite the Hostel. – JD – this land is owned by Network Rail and maintained by Scotrail. However, it is local residents who look after and keep the Station tidy. Communities can take over derelict land, maintain it and eventually take ownership.       

JD – we propose as a Community Council to upgrade this with tree’s benches and hopefully an RAF Memorial site. We may be able to use the Green Grant to fund this. 

No objections raised.

Dates of events to be held in Village Hall.

Ian Philp – Village Hall Trust – Please support your local village hall and pass the word of the events happening soon.

Bingo Night  – 19th March 2022

Easter Craft Fair – 16th April 2022

Social Evening- Ben Alder Estate – 23rd April 2022

Boot Sale – 15th May 2022

Boot Sale – 18th June 2022

Dog Show – 14th August 2022

 

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 7th February 2022 at 18:30hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Monday 7th February 2022 6:30pm

1.Welcome and Apologies

   Conor Fraser, John Bruce and Nigel Widgery sent their apologies.

1. 2. Attendees –  Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH), 

  Lee Cleghorn(LC), Joanna Riddell(JR),David Haggarty(DH) 

              Murial Cockburn

   

1. 3. Declaration of Interest/intentions

    None noted.

1. 4. Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 6th December 2021meeting, Proposed SC  Seconded JR   

1. 5. Treasurer’s Report

Stamps for Christmas Cards – £31.68

Zoom Membership payment – Reimburse JD- £143.88. Highland Council Grant application covered this payment.

     Pantomime purchases – £320.19, script £61.85

Pantomime breakdown – Admission fee £420.00, Raffle takings £198.00(both donated by Ian Philips, The Village Hall Trust) and Mulled Wine £82.60 Donated by Jo and Andy Riddell, The Lodge) 

Lucky to be Here – Replacement Defibrillator battery – £240.00, this was covered by takings from Pantomime. Leaving a small profit of £78.56.

Bluehost Security Payment – £31.79

Balance 7th February 2022  £11,982.75

      

1. 6. 6. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

A few residents came into contact with Covid19 over the festive period.The virus is still out there, we all need to be cautious and keep to the government guidelines.

MC advised the numbers are easing, however,there are still pockets in schools in the Grantown area. Face to Face meetings can resume with precautions in place ie LFT’s and Track and Trace.

   

1. 7. 7. Matters Arising

• • Pantomime

SC – This was a resounding success, it sold out, paid for itself and definitely created a buzz around the village and surrounding areas. There is talk we may do another one next year, “watch this space”.

A huge Thank you to Sophie Gault and all cast members for their hard work and dedication.

Thank you to David Haggarty for building the set and being on hand for the DIY jobs.

1. 1. b) Network Rail – The crossing at Ben Alder Road to be closed 

JD – We made the front page and page 3 in The Strathy. Keeping the pressure up. The recent meeting held with NR and stakeholders demonstrated that we have all lost faith, trust and confidence in NR. Ben Alder Estate have been told by NR it’s their responsibility to train anyone coming on to the Estate on how to use the crossing properly. That didn’t go down well.

The options NR are suggesting have not been discussed with the relevant landowners. NR don’t have the answers and are not telling the truth. NR advised no funding available.

The Azuma train has been slowing down whilst going through the station, when the issue of the Azuma trains horn is resolved, the train will no longer slow down. 

NR advised if anyone crosses a Level Crossing with the blue sign “ Private User Crossing”                    even if the gates are unlocked, you can be prosecuted. JD advised that no one has ever been prosecuted and the gates at Dalwhinnie were padlocked without consultation even with the private landowner/user.

JD advised Kate Forbes has sent a letter to the new Transport Minister in the UK Government asking for this to be reviewed with a view to using the phone to check it is safe to cross.

JD – could we Crowdfund to take NR to court? Get an interdict to get the gates opened. 

MC – not sure Community Councils are allowed to Crowdfund, however, will consult with the HC legal team. JD will email MC with all relevant information.

1. 1. c) Corrievarkie PSH Local Public Engagement – Update 

Local engagement, Hydro Scheme, the building of a plant two thirds down the Loch. Battery Scheme to generate Electricity in peak times. JD advised talks in place to hold an exhibition in the Village hall.  Preferred date 23rd February 2022 – 3pm to 9pm.                                           

1. 1. d) Melgarve Cluster Connection

JD attended public consultation online. Not an open discussion, you had to type an question into the BOT then would find an answer and reply. JD advised Laggan CC have been intouch and they are in touch dealing with it.

1. 1. e) Defibrillator Battery 

LH advised the Golf Club at Kingussie had recently replaced their Defibrillator box with a heated one as the cold weather drains the battery, is this something we need to look at?       MC advised this is not something she has heard off and suggested we contact “Lucky to be     Here’ for advice. JD agreed to contact them.  

1. 1. f) Litter Pick 

LH – the litter along the Crubenmore road is an issue again. Due to the weather conditions not able to get out. A provisional date-Sunday 13th March 2022, weather permitting, was agreed.

1. 1. g)  Litter Signs

SC and NW are arranging to get these put in place. MC asked if CNPA had supplied any?      MC advised to contact Murray Ferguson and to copy her in. JD agreed to take this forward.

1. 1. h)  Grampian Site

DH advised that had spoken to Grace recently.  She advised her son has now taken over the site.  It was agreed LH as DCC secretary would write to Grace to request contact details.

1. 1. i) Daffodils

JD advised has daffodils and would like to see them planted.                                         Looking for volunteers to clear the far end of the walkers car park. Weather permitting, Saturday 19th February was suggested.

1. 1. j) Tree Planting – Badenoch Shinty Memories Group

JD was contacted by the group asking if we wanted trees planted. It was agreed the end of the walkers car park would be a good place.  Issues with Carrievarkie plans need to be investigated, but if going forward we need to clear the site and BSMG will plant the trees. If any trees left over, it was suggested the ground opposite the School Hostel could be used. JD advised this is Scotrail Land, so will contact them.

1. 1. k) Scotrail – Kingussie Ticket Office 

JD has contacted Scotrail raising concerns of the closing of this office. It will impact all train users, affecting tourists and those with accessibility difficulties, bike users and prices. No online offers available as would have to travel to Aviemore to collect tickets.                          MC advised wouldn’t get tickets from Aviemore either and has also put her concerns in writing.   JD advised the Caledonian Sleeper has partnered with Scotrail given passengers offers, however, can only be taken up at offices, which are closing.   JD urges all to raise their concerns in writing to Scotrail.                  

1. 1. l) NHS – Near Me

Near Me is a video consulting service which enables people to attend appointments from home or wherever is convenient. The service is already widely used across NHS Scotland for health and care appointments with around 20,00 consultations being held every week. The service is now being rolled out across a wide range of public services.                All you need is a device for making video calls and an internet connection. Near Me is a secure form of video consulting approved for use by the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland.   LH will invite the Near Me representative to attend our next meeting to find out more information.

1. 1. m) Planning for a Community Emergency

JD – Dalwhinnie could be used as an Emergency Hub for the surrounding area. We can      involve the Village Hall Trust and Loch Ericht Hotel. It was agreed we should put an action plan in place.  JD agreed to take this forward.

1. 8. Planning Matters

1. 1. Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – JD advised another flood report to be submitted, waiting on SEPA completing this.

1. 9. Any other Business

The AGM will be held on 7th March 2022. We are hoping this will be face to face.

Dates for Future Meetings

Tuesday 3rd May 2022

Monday 4th July 2022

Monday 5th September 2022

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Monday 6th December 2021 at 18:30hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Monday 6th December 2021 6:30pm

1. Welcome and Apologies

   Connor Fraser, Muriel Cockburn and John Bruce, sent their apologies.

2. Attendees –  Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH), 

  Lee Cleghorn(LC), Joanna Riddell(JR), Nigel Widgery(NW)

  David Haggarty(DH) 

3. Declaration of Interest/intentions

 None noted.

4. Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 19th October 2021meeting, Proposed LH  Seconded SC   

5. Treasurer’s Report

Fraser Signs £169.92 – extra Litter Pick Signs

Amazon – £42.00 – Memorial Wreath

Panto Costumes, Scenery, paint -£320.19 – this will be reimbursed via ticket sales

Zoom Membership payment – Grant application will process this payment.

£52.50 profit from Craft Fair will be paid into the bank.

Balance 6th December 2021 £11,555.39

Dalwhinnie Book – No banking update, SC will chase this again, 4th time.

      

6. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

Cases in the Highlands are on the increase. 3 Separate households in Dalwhinnie have been isolating.

No guidance as to cancelling the Pantomime, masks must be worn and Track and Trace details will be taken.

   

7. Matters Arising

a) Network Rail – The crossing at Ben Alder Road to be closed  JD – Email has been sent to ask for a decision. Suggested Miniature Stop Lights (MSL). We will be ramping up the campaign. YouTube video now available to watch. No Invalid Access. A deadline will be given to Network Rail for a response (15th December 2021). No response or no solution we will be staging protests in January (Details to follow). Hit the rail operator of the Azuma Train.   March derailment could have been worse, it’s classed as a slow derailment. The Strathy have released an article Linking a video.

b)    Corrievarkie PSH Local Public Engagement – Update Local engagement, Hydro Scheme, the building of a plant two thirds down the Loch. Battery Scheme to generate Electricity in peak times.                                           

c) Melgarve Cluster Connection  JD residents should have received a letter on 25th November,2021. All members present advised they had not received any letter. JD agreed to post details on Facebook page. The proposal is to add wind farms as part of the transmission Service. Funding may be available. Consultations are available. JD will find out more details and update.

d) Defibrillator Battery Replacement  JD and CF checked the battery and it does need replacing.”Lucky to be here” will look at supply on subsidised amount. CF will be looking into this. Replacement battery cost £275.00. Plans are to raise funds to cover this cost.  JR will be supplying drinks for the Panto and all proceeds will go towards the Battery fund. SC advised a Dalwhinnie Distillery event raised £200.00 for the village hall and will suggest they might like to donate part or all towards the Battery fund if required.          

e) BEAR A889 Work commences 13th December 2021. Aim to improve the footpaths, dropped kerbs and drainage. Traffic Calming measures should also be installed at this time. Bollards and railings  at the corner of Station Road.  Road works and diversions will be inplace.                           Dalwhinnie Community Council are in favour of this work being carried out.     

f) Welcome New Residents Gary and Susan to Balsporran Alan and Alison to Distillery Cottages.

g) Christmas Cards DCC agreed to send cards to all residents and local contacts. SC agreed to write message inside and LH agreed to address the envelopes.

h) Station Road NW has cut half of the grass along Station Road and will finish it. JD – Planters are in need of some TLC.  This will be picked up in the Spring. Winter Lights are up but not all working due to connections. Highland Council(HC) have come  out, but one at the Station not working. DH and SC have agreed to look at if. Thank you to Alan Dawson, David Haggarty, Simon Conroy, Andy Riddell and Nigel Widgery for putting the lights up.

i) Drainage It would appear to be a lot drier outside the Bar and Nigel and Kate’s house. HC have been out and it seems to be a lot better, but we will continue to monitor this.                                      

j) Litter Picks are now finished and will be picked up in the Spring

k) Litter Signs  SC and NW will install Litter Signs in all affected areas.

l) Memorial Repairs – Update next meeting.

m) Bollards Route 7 – No update – BEAR responsible DCC to contact them again.

n) Grampian Site Hotel – No update LH to action

o) Dalwhinnie Panto – Aladdin All 80 tickets were sold. Doors open at 6.30pm, starts at 7pm and finishes at 8.18pm.  In The Interval mulled wine will be available. Additional parking at Green Shed. NW offered his driveway for any invaild parking.

p) Parcel Delivery Updates  JD –  Highland Region incurres high postal charges in excess of £9million in surcharges. This has come to light as online shopping has increased.  JD urges all to write to local MP’s

q) Liz Henderson at Cairngorms National Park JD advised that Liz has moved to the Visitor Infrastructure Department. Gavin Miles will be new contact until a replacement for Liz has been found.  CNPA is asking communities how they would like to see CNPA going forward. Rewilding, Tree planting?? CNPA is holding consultations.  JD encourages all to look at the proposals online and the impact this would have on future planning.

r) 15th December 2021 Community Emergency planning Would the community be able to cope. Online meeting held 15th December, 7pm to 8pm JR and LC will attend. JD also suggested a person from the Village Hall Committee should also attend.

9. Planning Matters 

a. Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – JD advised Flood risk assessment completed and submitted to CNPA. SEPA is now requiring more information.

10. Any other Business

a) Trainline – JD advised DCC contacted by Trainline asking if they could be added to our website – It was all agreed this service is not something we would promote on our website

b) Scotrail – Concerns raised – Kingussie Ticket office may close. Not enough room for more than 2 bikes. JD agreed to contact them with proposals and update at our next meeting.

Dates for Future Meetings

Monday 7th February 2022

Monday 7th March 2022

Monday 2nd May 2022

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Tuesday 19th October 2021 at 18:30hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Tuesday 19th October 2021 6:30pm

1a.Welcome and Apologies

Scheduled DCC Meeting for Tuesday 12th October 2021 -1800hrs was   rescheduled due to a lack of availability of members through illness and personal reasons. Jen Dickinson, Si Conroy, Jo Riddell attended, along with John Bruce.

The 3 Members present, Co-opted new members to DCC.

Lee Cleghorn – Associated Member – David Haggarty and Nigel Widgery.

1b.Welcome and Apologies

Muriel Cockburn sent her apologies. Sarah Fisher has stepped down.

1. 2. Attendees –  Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH), 

  Lee Cleghorn(LC), Joanna Riddell(JR), Connor Fraser(CF) David Haggarty(DH) Nigel Widgery(NW)John Bruce (JB)

1. 3. Declaration of Interest/intentions

    JR – Declared an interest in the proposed siting of a Pod at The Lodge 

    CF – Declared an interest in the proposed Camper Park

1. 4. Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 9th August  2021meeting, Proposed LH  Seconded SC   

1. 5. Treasurer’s Report

     Bottle of Whiskey given to Nigel for grass cutting

     Bonnie Barrel Competition – Raffle Prizes – JD paid by DCC card £60.00

Festive Light replacements – £1,360.52 Paid by Bank transfer

£23.00 donated to DCC from Alex

Banking update -Balance at 19/810//2021 – £12,163.74

Highland Council advised that Zoom meetings should continue. JD had to pay for further Zoom registration, this will be reimbursed and show on the next Banking Update. 

Book Fund £1,047.16 – Bank account needs to be sorted re change of address and   Debit Card.

1. 6. 6. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

We are now in Level 0 and the majority of restrictions have been lifted.

1. 7. 7. Matters Arising
   8. a) Network Rail – The crossing at Ben Alder Road to be closed 

JD meeting held on 21st September was positive for our campaign but NR are not moving quickly. Their notes from the meeting were adjusted by JD and DM in agreement with stakeholders present to be a true reflection of the meeting and all stakeholders approved. We will be ramping up the pressure if NR refuse to move on unlocking the gates. We will need all community support when this starts. The Strathy and Press and Journal have both ran articles. Still no response from NR – No further update at present.

1. 1. b) New Members Sarah Fisher has stepped down. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Sarah for all her invaluable help and hard work.       Lee Cleghorn is welcomed back as an Associated Member

David Haggarty(DH) will assist in the general maintenance around the village. Nigel Widgery (NW) will be looking after the grass cutting and set up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.                                                               

1. 1. c) Bollards at Route 7 – update LC advised had a group of 14 cyclists staying at the hostel and one of them hit a bollard. JR also advised seen customers coming into Bar who had also collided with bollards. JD – A complaint came straight to Chair at DCC and raised a serious issue of a cyclist having an accident at bollards along the cycle track.  JD engaged with CNPA, HC BEAR and  The bollards were all removed in November 2020 by BEAR after a consultation. However, it seems some were replaced or moved to one side near Dalwhinnie. Sustrans are not happy about this and are looking into it. This is not a Community Council Issue.
   2. d) RSE – Ongoing water works JD – Following investigation works and assessments of the water quality at the new borehole site RSE have taken the decision to amend their plans. They are proposing to change the design of the new WTW to include two new raw water storage tanks which will ensure greater security of supply for the community. The tanks will mean they can continue to provide drinking water even if there is any temporary interruption to the operation of the boreholes. All households should have received information by mail.

JD aware that LC and JR didn’t receive any notification and will ensure they are added to mailing list.

1. 1. e) Badenoch Great Place Rory Macpherson is keen to help Dalwhinnie residents to archive pictures or information. Looking for volunteers to assist in this.
   2. f) Station Road SC – 2/3rds of Station Road has been strimmed back. One Planter has sunk, this was after the drainage works. This will be addressed. JD will contact HC and ask if they can supply wildflower seeds rather than grass seeds. DH agreed to measure and cost for seeds/turf.
   3. g) Station Road – Winter Lights – update SC some of the old lights are not working. We have ordered 4 replacements. SC, DH, NW have all agreed to instal the new lights.
   4. h) Ben Alder Road – grass strimming along NR Verge JD advised been approached by residents along Ben Alder Road who would like to see the verge maintained along with Station Road. At the moment only a few residents look after the patch opposite their homes. NW agreed to cut it twice a year but wouldn’t pick up the cut JD agreed to discuss further options with the residents.
   5. i) Grampian View Site, Station Road – update JD has been approached by residents concerned that nothing has happened since the earth was moved. LH agreed to prepare a letter, with a quick update as to what is happening in and around the village for the owner and prompt an update we can share at our next meeting.
   6. j) New Litter Signs NC advised he has new signs for us.  These are to be placed at each end of Village, the Cycle Route and Balsporran Car Park. Double Sided Signs. SC and NW will take this on
   7. k) Fly Tipping – Litter Pick Sadly fly tipping is still on the increase in the area. Mattress, Sofa spotted along Laggan Rd. CF advised solid tar dumped at Petrol Station.  JD advised to report all incidents on the ClearWaste App. JD will also circulate HC telephone number.

Litter pick arranged for Saturday 30th October, 11am. This has been advertised on Facebook page.  Looking forward to seeing as many volunteers as possible.

1. 1. l) Defibrillator This is situated at the Garage. CF has agreed to take this on. JD will give CF a handover.
   2. m) Gambling Act – No Issues Raised.
   3. n) Dalwhinnie Panto – Aladdin Sophie Gault is taking this on. Script has been paid for. Adult theme. Will be held in the Village Hall 10th December 2021. Approx 40 minutes with raffle in the interval. £5 a ticket.
   4. o) R100 Scheme – Update LC – This has now gone live on the website. However, checking Dalwhinnie postcodes it will be 2025 before we are upgraded. 5G will most probably be available by then so the scheme will be obsolete and a complete waste of time for us. Not a lot we can do about it.
   5. p) Scotrail Consultation on timetable JD – has sent an email to Scotrail for an update.  LC advised at the moment 7 trains travel North and 5 South. Scotrail proposes 6 each way. Still a very poor service during the day. 
   6. Planning Matters

1. 1. Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – CF, Flood risk assessment completed and submitted to CNPA. Awaiting response. Slowly getting there.

1. 1. b) JR – The planning application for Pod has been declined by HC due to a flood risk in the
   2. 9. Any other Business
   3. a) JD – Ben Alder Estate are planning on resurfacing the track to the house.
   4. b) Signage around the village. JD, it costs money to put signs on HC roads (approx £90) but not on private land if we speak to the landowner. Welcome Signs at each end of the village using our logo. Grants maybe available. NW mentioned Drive Carefully signs.  

JR agreed to contact HC again about Road Signs for Station Road. DH suggest brown signs along the cycle path, advertising the Hostel and Lodge Bar.

1. 1. c) NW raised concerns about the speed limit through the village especially by construction JD advised contacted BEAR who agreed to do a site visit, however, no traffic at the time of their visit. JD advised BEAR will be introducing calming measures when the road through the village is resurfaced. No timescale for this happening yet. LH will send an email to our Community Police Officer to see if there is any update or assistance available.
   2. d) JD asked if everyone would be willing to meet in person for the next meeting. Zoom invitation would still be sent to John and Muriel. – No objections raised.
   3. e) SC suggested getting together for a Christmas Night – No objections raised.

Dates for Future Meetings

Monday 6th December  2021

Monday 7th February 2022

Monday 7th March 2022

Monday 2nd May 2022

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council Agenda held Monday 9th August 2021 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Monday 9th August 2021

Welcome and Apologies

PC Liam Ward British Transport Police

Muriel Cockburn, Conor Fraser and Sarah Fisher, sent their apologies.

Attendees –  Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH), Lee Cleghorn(LC), Joanna Riddell(JR), John Bruce (JB)

Declaration of Interest/intentions

 JR – Declared an interest in the proposed siting of a Pod at The Lodge

Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 7th June 2021meeting, Proposed LH  Seconded SC

Treasurer’s Report

Banking update –

Zurich Insurance – £167.44 – Paid

Internet (Domain name) £18.00 – Paid

Reimburse payment to JD £74.87  – Paid in Error, JD returned payment.

Purchased on behalf of DCC Tombola Prizes – £86.00 made – overall profit

Grant received from Highland Council – £412.98

CPNA Green Recovery Grant received – £112.05

£70.00 received from each Garage and Hotel for stocking and selling Postcards.

Balance at 9/8//2021 – £13,383.96

6. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

We are now in Level 0 and the majority of restrictions have been lifted.

The Helpline was still in place, however, it has not been used in 10months. This will now be turned off.

7. Matters Arising

a) Network Rail – The crossing at Ben Alder Road to be closed 

JD – The crossing was padlocked on 28th July 2021. Network Rail (NR) had no consultation with either the Residents or The Estate before making this decision. NR advised the decision made on Health and Safety grounds and would not be reversed. JD received feedback from residents of their concerns of the gates being climbed, which would be a further Health and Safety issue. The padlock and chains were removed by an unknown person 29th July 2021.

PC Liam Ward  – British Transport Police (LW) Thanks for meeting invite. Based in Inverness and been an Officer for 8 years and know the area and the problems. Happy to answer questions and offer support. However, must remain politically neutral.

A complaint was made when the chain and padlock went missing on 29th July 2021. This incident is a police matter and is being investigated as theft.

This is a Private User Crossing owned by Network Rail (NR). As the land is also owned by NR, they are entitled to secure the crossing. The line is on a curve and the train driver doesn’t have a clear line of vision. The speed of the trains can be up to 70/80 MPH. However, I understand this has been used for a number of years as access to Estate land for both walkers and cyclists.

LW advised he doesn’t know the specific reason for securing the crossing and will continue to investigate.  Not his intention to upset locals however, if padlocks and chains are removed or damaged it will be a police matter and could result in CCTV cameras being installed. I’m happy to discuss, find a solution and take forward all concerns to NR.

JD advised that CCTV cameras are now in place. Walkers/cyclists still climbing the fence and will continue to do so as CCTV is not acting as a deterrent.

Access via the station platform and bridge is not a suitable solution. Locals not willing to walk along a busy road and are driving to the underpass. Local Businesses are suffering.

This access has been a Drover’s road and dates back to the 1800’s. LW advised it has always been private land since the 1800’s but footfall would be a lot less. However, Drovers road could be an angle that needs further investigation.

SC – NR did not contacted residents about the health and safety issues raised about the recent train derailment. The community needs a solution and SC would like NR to visit the site and open up discussions. If safety is the issue, then look for a solution as there are other crossings that NR have been able to provide solutions for.

JD – At no time did NR consult or discuss this decision. It was made without looking into the impact it would have on all parties who use this access on a regular basis and local businesses. Resources were made available in spring 2021 to carry out maintenance to ensure emergency access remained viable at the walkers carpark on Ben Alder Road. This is something DCC wouldn’t have gone ahead with if we knew NR’s plans.

There is support from The Ramblers Association, Outdoor Enthusiasts a strong Social Media campaign, local newspapers and BBC Radio Scotland.

JD – This matter is ongoing and further developments will be shared on our Facebook page. Further updates will be discussed and noted at our next meeting.

b) Corrievarkie PSH Local Engagement – JD has asked for confirmation about the access road that will be used for the supplies to this site and the volume of traffic, if any, which will come through the village. DCC will work with this development to ensure are aware of what is happening and the impact it will cause.

c) Station Road Grass Cutting

There is no grass to be cut along Station Road since Highland Council laid new pipes.           JR suggested it would be nice to keep as meadow land. JD had spoken with Network Rail     previously to see if they would cover the cost of Meadow Turf.

LH agreed to speak with David Haggarty with a view to costing Meadow Turf or option to   seed it. SC agreed to assist David Haggarty.

d)   Bonny Barrel Competition – This will take place on Saturday 21st August 2021. DCC     would like to thank Heather for kindly delivering the flyers to everyone. Raffle tickets are     available from around the village. BBQ at the hotel until 7pm then move to the Lodge Bar.

e)   Fly Tipping Update – LH – Just recently I came across a large amount of boxes dumped in a layby along the Crubenmore Road. It looked like boxes maybe from a burger van.       These were collected and burnt by Ainslie Fraser. Thank you Ainslie.

JD – found a portaloo dumped in a layby, which was cleaned, repaired and will be sold for donation to DCC. JD will contact BEAR about the burnout car near Drumochter.

Fly tipping is on the increase due to the recycling centers opening times being reduced.       DCC are adding their support to the campaign to try to reverse this decision.

A litter pick has been arranged for Sunday 22nd August 202, from Midday.

f)   Litter signs –  JD advised these are all out and still in place. DCC believe these signs are helping remind people to take their rubbish home.

JD suggested we get more, all agreed. LC suggested we should get bigger ones, all     agreed. JD to contact Connor Fraser to arrange.

g) Lynx Consultation – The Vincent Wildlife Trust will be hosting a meeting in the Village   hall on Monday 16th August 2021 at 18.50pm to discuss the reintroduction of Lynx.

Although restrictions have been lifted, face coverings must be worn until seated.

h)  Memorial Repairs – JD advised Highland Council (HC)were looking into the repairs     required at the memorial site. Angus Duggie has offered to carry out the repairs for free     if HC supplies the materials.  JD will contact HC. JB also agreed to speak with HC.

i)   Winter Lights – This item will be addressed at our next meeting.

j)   Hamish Napier Music – Badenoch The Story Lands – Village Hall 14th August 2021 This has  been postponed. No further details at present.

k)  Election for co-opted members – Election forms to be completed by LH, & JR and     returned to Liz Cowie. LC will remain as a co-opted member.

Planning Matters

Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – CF not in attendance.  Further updates at the next meeting.

b) JR – A planning application has been submitted to HC for permission to erect a 4×4 metre pod at The Lodge.  DCC offers no objection to this planning request.

9. Any other Business

JD – DCC would like to arrange a meeting with Network Rail to discuss the closure of the Ben Alder crossing in the Village Hall. Update to follow.

b) JR – Can the sign “Cycle Path to Pitlochry” at the start of the cycle path be updated.

SC advised this had been discussed previously but not taken forward at that time.  This is

Something we can now look at and will be further investigated.

JR advised there is no road sign for Station Road. JD advised this is HC responsibility. JD to put JR in contact with appropriate person at HC and JR agreed to arrange with HC.

c)   LH – advised Dalwhinnie is to have a designated Community Police Officer. LH will be     meeting with him soon and will update at the next meeting.

Dates for Future Meetings

October – Monday 4th October 2021

November – Monday 15th November 2021

December – Monday 20th December 2021

January – Monday 31st January 2021

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council Extraordinary Meeting held Saturday 12th June 2021 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council Extraordinary Meeting – Minutes

Minutes updated 12/06/21 after a complaint/request from a local resident.

Date – Monday 22nd March 2021 at 6pm

1. Welcome

a) JB and MC both joined us for this meeting.

b) Liz Henderson from Cairngorm National Park (CNPA)

2. Attendees – JD, SC, LH, LC, CF, AF, JB, MC, LH

SF and JM were unable to attend and sent their apologies.

JD asked if anyone objected to the meeting being recorded.

All in attendance confirmed they were happy for this to happen.

3. Declaration of Interest/Intentions

CF and AF both confirmed they have an interest in the Proposed Camper/Motorhome

site. Their attendance is to answer and discuss any issues raised.

Liz Henderson joined in a support role and not as part of CNPA planning.

4. Planning Matters – Proposed Camper/Motorhome

Under COVID19 Restrictions we are unable to hold a public meeting.

JD advised a public meeting could be arranged via a ZOOM call. However, after speaking to many

residents, the majority didn’t feel it was required. Many residents confirmed they wouldn’t attend if

arranged, others would/could not use zoom, and one resident confirmed they would.

DCC agreed to hold an interim meeting to discuss all concerns raised by local residents. This is to

ensure all issues FOR and AGAINST are given a fair hearing and documented, please note the

documents sent out with the zoom invite. DCC can then formulate a response.

Lesley Carr has raised the issue on the DCC Facebook page, given residents the opportunity to

express their opinions.

JD has taken the opportunity to engage with locals whilst out on daily walks.

JD confirmed there is a lot of support amongst locals and not a lot of concerns.

JD invited CF to give an overview of the proposal.

CF – Since taking over the Petrol Station, it has brought to light the rising amount of Motorhome

users on the road. There is no proper area for these to park up, dispose of waste or have the use

of facilities, i.e, toilets, showers.

They are fortunate to have the space to utilise. The site will be split into 2 parts. There will be 10

spaces offering stop over stays. The main park, amongst the trees to the rear of the garage will be

able to accommodate 38 spaces.

CF – Dalwhinnie was at one time a bustling little place with 3 hotels. In the 70’s there was a

caravan park at the rear of the Petrol station. However, as these facilities are no longer there, the

village is now quiet and forgotten about.

Although change is not always welcomed, it is a good thing to help Dalwhinnie evolve and

welcome more visitors back to the area.

LH – a household on the adopted road has concerns and spoke to me about some of them.

No one had told them about the proposed planning and only knew when a resident told them.

They were unaware a Facebook conversation was going on as they don’t have social media.

Fire risk, increase of visitors to the village, road access near their property, loss of wildlife and

trees, town people not adhering to the country code, light and noise pollution and a screen being

erected near their property and obscuring their view.

CF – Spoke with the concerned household of the adopted road and showed them how to access all

the information regarding the proposed planning. Aware they didn’t have online access, CF printed

off all the relevant documents for them. CF advised it’s not their responsibility to contact residents

or display public notices, this is the role of Highland Council.

JD spoke with Highland Council who advised only properties within 20 meters of the proposed site

would receive notification. All affected properties did receive notification.

JD – DCC didn’t receive any notification from Highland Council, this was due to a system error with

email addresses, which has now been rectified. Similarly with CNPA – old contacts used.

CF – This will be a family oriented site. A site etiquette will be in place and have to be adhered to.

There will be quiet times in place. Signs explaining countryside code. A designated BBQ area,

campfires are strictly prohibited and advice re. a designated campfire spot will be sought.

Screening will be done sympathetically to the surroundings.

CF – All necessary reports and surveys have been completed and available online for all to see.

A further public toilet will be put in place at the garage. CF has registered with HC Comfort

scheme. An increase in visitors to the area will happen with or without this site.

Another concern raised – there are other camping projects being discussed within the village.

Wouldn’t want to see Dalwhinnie turn into a big holiday park.

JD – there are no other planning proposals in place at the moment. We can only discuss them if

and when they happen.

LC noted he had approval for 2 yurts and a few pods at the hostel for the future, but it was deemed

this is not another big development and offers more diversity.

JD – There is a lot of support for this development from residents who have lived here a while,

those who have moved away and those who have just recently moved here. Young and old in

ages and local businesses are all adding their support. These comments are noted on the

Facebook page and the HC planning application site.

SC – DCC have fulfilled their role ensuring all concerns of the community have been heard and

addressed. CF and AF have been very upfront, they have listened to all issues raised and

addressed them. Thank you.

Thanks to MC, JB and LH who all attended and agreed due process had been followed to allow an

appropriate DCC response to the planning application.

Votes For – JD, LH, SC, LC

Votes Against – None

Votes Abstained – CF, AF

DCC Will Support This Proposed Planning

5. Other comments or points raised on the planning matter not raised previously.

MC pleased all contact issues from HC to DCC had now be rectified and noted this was a

system error and not the fault of any person which DCC acknowledged as the case.

LH – asked JD to email correct updated details to also ensure all systems at CNPA were

appropriately updated too as a letter from them was sent to the incorrect address.

6. Any other Business

None

Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday 6th April 2021

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council Agenda held Monday 7th June 2021 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Monday 7th June 2021

1. Welcome and Apologies

a) Muriel Cockburn, John Bruce and Sarah Fisher, sent their apologies.

2. Attendees – Jen Dickinson(JD), Simon Conroy (SC), Lyn Haggarty(LH),

Lee Cleghorn(LC), Conor Fraser(CF)

3. Declaration of Interest/intentions

CF – Declared an interest in the proposed Motorhome/Campervan site

4. Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 6th April 2021meeting, Proposed SC Seconded CF

5. Treasurer’s Report

Banking update –

Fraser Signs – Invoice for litter signs received – still to be paid

Drinks for the volunteers at last litter pick – £29.00

Purchased on behalf of DCC – litter pickers, hoops, gloves (15 sets). JD applied for a

Grant successfully which will cover the full cost.

Extra bin bags, tree ties and plants for the planters, have been purchased- this is still to be

reimbursed to JD and will be documented at the next meeting.

Balance at 7/6/2021 – £12,820.89

6. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

There has been an increase in positive cases reported in Aviemore and Fort William.

There is a Covid testing unit in Aviemore offering free tests for anyone who has no obvious

symptoms but would like to be tested.

We are now in Level 1 and all residents appear to be adhering the new guidelines.

7. AGM Update

HC advised the Office Bearing Roles of Chair, Treasurer and Secretary, should be elected at

every AGM and eligible for re-election annually. The Community Council agreed to the

following re-elections with no contest.

Chair – Jen Dickinson Treasurer – Simon Conroy Secretary – Lyn Haggarty

As we have in place three office bearers, the role of Vice Chair is not required.

8. Matters Arising

a) Extraordinary Meeting

DCC have received a complaint from a household on the adopted road for the

proposed Motorhome/Campervan Site. The household have requested the minutes from

the Extraordinary meeting to be amended, to show ‘a complaint has been raised and they

had not given anyone permission to speak on their behalf’.

DCC acted in good faith and concerns brought to their attention had been noted.

It was agreed the Minutes will be amended to read “ a household on the adopted road”

An email will be sent in response to the complaint detailing the action DCC will take.

Highland Council is not considering this as a complaint.

b) Corrievarkie PSH Local Engagement – JD attended the public meeting and

raised concerns on behalf of Dalwhinnie. The supplies needed for this Hydro Scheme

will be coming through Dalwhinnie. There is a possibility an access road may be installed

via the Ardverikie field. It was confirmed no houses will be demolished. This will have an

impacted on the village. DCC will work with this development to ensure are aware

of what is happening and the impact it will cause.

c) Green Grant Recovery Fund – Litter Pick update

JD applied for a £564 grant to cover the cost of the litter picking equipment.

The next litter pick is Sunday 13th June 10am – 12noon. Details are being posted on

our Facebook page.

JD is in the process of installing the “take your Litter Home” signs around the village.

There are 24 in total.

d) Highland Mainline Station update

a) Monty Plaque – Highland Main line Community Rail Partnership are now in

possession of this plaque which they will repair and mount at no cost to DCC.

b) Station Adopter – Deborah Munday has resigned from this role. Angus Munday will

take up this role with immediate effect DCC will formalise this in writing.

e) Station Road Grass Cutting

HC have completed the work on Station Road but will be back in the near future to use

equipment to clear the drains at the junction.

There is no grass to be cut along Station Road. It was agreed Nigel Widgery will continue

the upkeep of the picnic area and Heather’s garden space. Nigel didn’t want paid for this

so as a thankyou DCC gave him a bottle of Whisky.

f) Art postcards – We have not sold any of the winter Distillery scene. Any proceeds from

the sale of these cards are split 50/50 between artist and DCC.

We have now received the art map of Ben Alder and surrounding paths. 100% of the

sales of this card can go to DCC.

JD will contact local businesses with a view to them stocking and selling both postcards

and they would get a small income from the map card. Cards retail at £2.00

g) Fibre Internet – No update – LC advised we are still included in the R100 Scheme but at

the mercy of BT Open Reach as to when that will happen. LC will continue to monitor.

h) Areas for tidy up

JD is in dialogue with Network rail and raised our concerns about the mess being left

at the level crossing and the walkers car park during their maintenance work. This is

ongoing and JD will advise at the next meeting.

i) Planters – DCC have a list of all those who have kindly agreed to adopt and maintain a

planter. JD will remind all adopters to keep their planters neat, clean and tidy. JD has

bought new plants which can be collected from her. We are starting to get a lot of visitors

to the village so let’s make a good impression.

j) Bonny Barrel Competition – This will take place on Saturday 28th August. A flyer will

be sent and a post on our Facebook page. New entrants are welcome. Barrels are

available from CF at the Garage.

Last year’s badges are still to be attached, CF will take this forward.

k) New Members

DCC received a request from Jo Riddell to join the Community Council.

This was proposed by JD and Seconded by SC. It was a unanimous decision from all

members present. JD will contact Jo Riddell to confirm this.

There are still spaces for new members to join the DCC. If anyone is interested please

contact us.

7. Planning Matters

a) Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – CF advised Main Flood Risk Assessment now been

completed. Planning still in the proposal stage. Further updates at the next meeting.

b) Dalwhinnie Distillery – DCC have been advised this is not a planning permission request

but a variation to the Licence already in place and will come up regularly. This is to

include an increase in number to 300, to include music and extend opening hours. There

will be an outdoor bar area offering Whisky themed cocktails and tea/coffee.

This is something different and a good addition to what is available within Dalwhinnie.

The previous Dalwhinnie Community Development Trust were in favour of this

application.

8. Any other Business

a) Ainslie Fraser(AF) has resigned as Vice Chair of Dalwhinnie Community Council. We

would like take this opportunity to thank Ainslie for all his hard work and his valued

support in getting the DCC up and running again. He played a big part and he’ll be missed.

AF has taken on the role of Secretary for The Dalwhinnie Community Development Trust.

DCC would like to wish Ainslie well in this new role and we look forward to working

together in the future for the good of the Village and its residents.

b) The members of the Community Development Trust are:

Chairman – Ian Philp / Treasurer – Ainslie Fraser / Secretary – Colin Blair

Trustee – Jules Akle / Trustee – Alan Dawson

c) JD advised she has stepped down as a trustee for The Community Development Trust.

d) JD and LH have spoken with Vincent Wildlife Trust (VWT) about the reintroduction of

Lynx to the area. It was agreed that Dalwhinnie will host the meeting and will encourage

residents and representatives of the neighbouring estates to attend. The proposed date

is Monday 16th August 2021. JD will enquire if the village hall is available.

e) CF raised the issue of Motorhomes stopping and dumping human waste in and around the

garage.

Dates for Future Meetings

August – Monday 2nd August 2021

October – Monday 4th October 2021

December – Monday 6th December 2021

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council Agenda held Monday 6th April 2021 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Tuesday 6th April 2021

1. Welcome and Apologues

a) JB joined us this month.

b) SF and JM were unable to attend and sent their apologies.

2. Attendees – JD, SC, LH, LC, CF, AF, JB

3. Declaration of Interest/intentions

JD and SC – Abstained from voting or commenting on the proposed letter to Mr Gillies.

4. Previous Minutes

Approve minutes from 22nd March 2021 Extraordinary meeting,Proposed SC Seconded LC

Approve Minutes from 2nd March 2021 meeting, Proposed JD Seconded AF

5. Treasurer’s Report

Banking update – 2 payments made:

Fraser Signs – Hillwalker parking signs and No Parking signs, which are now all in place.

£340.56

Replacement Printer cartridge for Secretary – £31.95

Balance at 24/3/2021 – £13,433.32

6. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

a) All residents appear to be adhering to the Covid19 Lockdown Guidelines. Two new

residents have moved into the area and are adhering to the Covid Guidelines.

b) It was noted there were approx 18 cars parked at the Hillwalking carpark at the weekend.

However, this was after the “Stay at home” advice was changed to “Stay Local” and we are

assuming these were locals.

JB reminded us the area we live in is very vast.

c) It is important all residents feel safe, any concerns should be reported using the online form

and not by contacting any member of the Community Council.

JD will put the link on our Facebook for completing the online form. This can also be done

on the Police Scotland website. Please do not call 999 or 101 to report these breaches.

6. Matters Arising

a) Speed Limit through the village – Speed limit will not be reduced to below 40MPH

through the village. However, it will be reviewed with a view to extending it through the

village, passed the Distillery. BEAR will be resurfacing the road and adding traffic calming

measures. A monitoring system will be used to gather data to help determine what

changes need to be implemented. Signs to assist foreign travellers is also being

considered.

b) AF raised concerns the new traffic lights at the bridge are very slow in changing. Would it

be possible for sensors to be added to allow the traffic to flow better.

c) Community Policing – DCC were contacted by Inspector Vince Tough from Nairn Police

Station. LH spoke with Inspector Tough, who explained it is his aim to reintroduce

community Policing. We would have a designated Community Police Officer, with whom

we can contact and liaise with. He would also be happy to attend our meetings. Inspector

Tough will contact us again once this has been set up. All agreed this would be good for

the community.

d) Green Grant Recovery Fund – this is available via CNPA. JD asked for suggestions on

Facebook page. Green Grant applications are open until 6th May 2021.

Cycle Track A889 – all cyclists and walkers have to use the main road as there is no path.

JD suggested a path from the garage to the cycle path would be a good idea for safety

reasons and it would help promote the use of the cycle path for future visitors.

AF raised concerns that it would be expensive to instal a new path that could potentially

become obsolete when the dualling of the A9 was completed.

JB advised that BEAR have money to put cycle paths in place.

Suggestions – Community Wood, Community Orchard, Compost Toilet.

We would like Members of the community to get involved in making suggestions, taking

ownership and driving any suggestion forward, DCC will be happy to assist in a

supportive role and we urge you to get intouch with JD, to take advantage of the grants

available.

e) Fundraising – DCC are looking for ideas to help raise funds. Is there something

we could do to help the village, create a buzz and have fun. Contact JD with any ideas.

f) Station Road Grass Cutting – It was agreed the grass will be cut and the Memorial Site

tidied up once a Month. This will continue to be reviewed. JD will contact Nigel Widgery.

g) Dalwhinnie “Dark Skies” – After an investigation, JD advised to allow this to happen

there has to be 100% in favour of the lights being turned off along the main road, which

we don’t believe would happen. This is before we approached Network Rail and the

Distillery. If a resident within the the community would like to take this forward as a

project, DCC would be happy to assist.

SC – The sky around Dalwhinnie was amazing when we had the recent power cut.

h) Art postcards – Update – Due to a lack of visitors, we are not seeing a lot of sales.

JD shared a picture of a map showing walks in the local area. This was by artist

Jeremy Ashcroft. The artist has agreed to give the Community 100% of the sale and

only asks for his details to be noted on the reverse of the card. JD advised would be a

similar cost of approx £76 to print 500.

JB suggested the writing on the card to be enlarged

AF suggested Dalwhinnie village name be mentioned on the card.

JD agreed to forward suggestions to Rory Macpherson who will discuss with the artist on

our behalf. There is also a possibility of Jeremy Ashcroft visiting the area.

i) Drainage – JD advised Highland Council have now started work on Station Road. They

are attempting to clear the blockages. HC are dealing with this matter – ongoing.

BEAR are looking at the drains along the main road, they have previously advised this

will be addressed when the road is being resurfaced. JD will monitor and give update

j) Dalwhinnie Logo – The new logo has now been adopted. DCC would like to thank

everyone for all the constructive feedback received.

Dalwhinnie Community Council Logo – The new logo will show the name Dalwhinnie

in the Dalwhinnie tartan. All agreed on this. Proposed by JD and Seconded LH.

k) Fibre Internet – LC advised we are still to be included in the R100 Scheme but at the

mercy of BT Open Reach as to when that will happen. LC will continue to monitor.

l) Areas for tidy up – JD – a letter was sent to the owner of the old Grampian Hotel site,

asking if she would consider putting a car park there. The land is not for sale and she

has plans, although we are unsure of what they are at the moment. Arrangements are

in place to tidy up the land which has been on hold due to weather.

Ben Alder Road – JD advised MS has finished the clearing and will come back to level.

JD and SC will plant trees, wild flowers and erect a fence. JD and SC will be covering

the cost of this work and not DCC. HC will be invited to come to see the work completed.

LH, in the role of DCC Secretary, will write to the owner of the fields on the main road. The

proposed letter was sent to all members for their approval. It was agreed, some of the

wording would be changed, based on the changes, LC proposed and CF seconded.

l) Litter signs – JD advised have spoken to Acorn Signs, and we are looking to use a

similar sign used by Laggan “Take your litter home”. The same format with a blue border

was agreed by all. JD will look to get the best price and different quotes.

Proposed JD and Seconded CF.

m) No Parking Signs – JD advised these are now all in place. Sadly a sign has already been

vandalised. DCC are asking the community to be vigilant and report any incidents.

o) Website – JD proposed the colour on the website be changed from Green to Blue/Grey

and the logo be put on also. No objections raised. JD will speak with SF to arrange this.

7. Planning Matters

a) Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – CF advised this now with Cairngorm National Park

Authority. All positive discussions taking place with their architect and CNPA.

8. Any other Business

a) JM will be stepping down as a member of the DCC. We would like to thank Jim for all his

valued support and the time he has given to the DCC. He will be missed, however, he has

assured us he will be on hand should we need his expert advice.

DCC will be looking for a new member to join.

b) LH – DCC was approached by Vincent Wildlife Trust (VWT) who are aspiring to reintroduce

Lynx to the area and would like to explore how people feel about this. Information events

will be arranged. DCC agreed for VWT to contact us with details of these events.

c) JD advised there are no Fire Hydrants along Ben Alder Road. Discussions between the Fire

Service and Scottish water will be taking place – update to follow.

JD advised no testing has been completed recently on the lead pipes used along Ben Alder

Road, this should be completed every 6-8 weeks. This has now been reinstated.

d) JD advised all Community Council Chairmans are setting up a Badenoch Hardship Fund

offering financial assistance for Communities, to help with Fuel, utility bills etc, (not food as

this is covered under food banks) JD will update with more details.

Dates for Future Meetings

SC suggested the meetings be moved to every 2nd month. No objections raised.

Proposed SC, Seconded LC

June – Tuesday 1st June 2021

August – Tuesday 3rd August 2021

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council Extraordinary Meeting held Monday 22nd March 2021 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council Extraordinary Meeting – Minutes

Date – Monday 22nd March 2021 at 6pm

1. Welcome

a) JB and MC both joined us for this meeting.

b) Liz Henderson from Cairngorm National Park (CNPA)

2. Attendees – JD, SC, LH, LC, CF, AF, JB, MC, LH

SF and JM were unable to attend and sent their apologies.

JD asked if anyone objected to the meeting being recorded.

All in attendance confirmed they were happy for this to happen.

3. Declaration of Interest/Intentions

CF and AF both confirmed they have an interest in the Proposed Camper/Motorhome

site. Their attendance is to answer and discuss any issues raised.

Liz Henderson joined in a support role and not as part of CNPA planning.

4. Planning Matters – Proposed Camper/Motorhome

Under COVID19 Restrictions we are unable to hold a public meeting.

JD advised a public meeting could be arranged via a ZOOM call. However, after speaking to many

residents, the majority didn’t feel it was required. Many residents confirmed they wouldn’t attend if

arranged, others would/could not use zoom, and one resident confirmed they would.

DCC agreed to hold an interim meeting to discuss all concerns raised by local residents. This is to

ensure all issues FOR and AGAINST are given a fair hearing and documented, please note the

documents sent out with the zoom invite. DCC can then formulate a response.

Lesley Carr has raised the issue on the DCC Facebook page, given residents the opportunity to

express their opinions.

JD has taken the opportunity to engage with locals whilst out on daily walks.

JD confirmed there is a lot of support amongst locals and not a lot of concerns.

JD invited CF to give an overview of the proposal.

CF – Since taking over the Petrol Station, it has brought to light the rising amount of Motorhome

users on the road. There is no proper area for these to park up, dispose of waste or have the use

of facilities, i.e, toilets, showers.

They are fortunate to have the space to utilise. The site will be split into 2 parts. There will be 10

spaces offering stop over stays. The main park, amongst the trees to the rear of the garage will be

able to accommodate 38 spaces.

CF – Dalwhinnie was at one time a bustling little place with 3 hotels. In the 70’s there was a

caravan park at the rear of the Petrol station. However, as these facilities are no longer there, the

village is now quiet and forgotten about.

Although change is not always welcomed, it is a good thing to help Dalwhinnine evolve and

welcome more visitors back to the area.

LH – The owners of Birchview have concerns and spoke to me about some of them.

No one had told them about the proposed planning and only knew when a resident told them.

They were unaware a Facebook conversation was going on as they don’t have social media.

Fire risk, increase of visitors to the village, road access near their property, loss of wildlife and

trees, town people not adhering to the country code, light and noise pollution and a screen being

erected near their property and obscuring their view.

CF – Spoke with the owners of Birchview and showed them how to access all the information

regarding the proposed planning. Aware they didn’t have online access, CF printed off all the

relevant documents for them. CF advised it’s not their responsibility to contact residents or display

public notices, this is the role of Highland Council.

JD spoke with Highland Council who advised only properties within 20 meters of the proposed site

would receive notification, Birchview does not fall into this category. All affected properties did

receive notification.

JD – DCC didn’t receive any notification from Highland Council, this was due to a system error with

email addresses, which has now been rectified. Similarly with CNPA – old contacts used.

CF – This will be a family oriented site. A site etiquette will be in place and have to be adhered to.

There will be quiet times in place. Signs explaining countryside code. A designated BBQ area,

campfires are strictly prohibited and advice re. a designated campfire spot will be sought.

Screening will be done sympathetically to the surroundings.

CF – All necessary reports and surveys have been completed and available online for all to see.

A further public toilet will be put in place at the garage. CF has registered with HC Comfort

scheme. An increase in visitors to the area will happen with or without this site.

Another concern raised – there are other camping projects being discussed within the village.

Wouldn’t want to see Dalwhinnie turn into a big holiday park.

JD – there are no other planning proposals in place at the moment. We can only discuss them if

and when they happen.

LC noted he had approval for 2 yurts and a few pods at the hostel for the future, but it was deemed

this is not another big development and offers more diversity.

JD – There is a lot of support for this development from residents who have lived here a while,

those who have moved away and those who have just recently moved here. Young and old in

ages and local businesses are all adding their support. These comments are noted on the

Facebook page and the HC planning application site.

SC – DCC have fulfilled their role ensuring all concerns of the community have been heard and

addressed. CF and AF have been very upfront, they have listened to all issues raised and

addressed them. Thank you.

Thanks to MC, JB and LH who all attended and agreed due process had been followed to allow an

appropriate DCC response to the planning application.

Votes For – JD, LH, SC, LC

Votes Against – None

Votes Abstained – CF, AF

DCC Will Support This Proposed Planning

5. Other comments or points raised on the planning matter not raised previously.

MC pleased all contact issues from HC to DCC had now be rectified and noted this was a

system error and not the fault of any person which DCC acknowledged as the case.

LH – asked JD to email correct updated details to also ensure all systems at CNPA were

appropriately updated too as a letter from them was sent to the incorrect address.

6. Any other Business

None

Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday 6th April 2021

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council Agenda held Tuesday 2nd March 2021 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council AGM – Minutes

Date – Tuesday 2nd March 2021

1. Welcome

a) JB and MC both joined us this month.

b) Liz Henderson from Cairngorm National Park (CNPA), who requested to join.

c) Rory MacPherson also requested to join.

2. Attendees – JD, SC, LH, LC, CF, AF, JB, MC, LH, RM

SF and JM were unable to attend and sent their apologies.

3. Previous Minutes

Approved minutes from 2nd February 2021 meeting, proposed SC, Seconded CF.

4. Treasurer’s Report

a) Treasurer’s Report for year ending 2021, sent to Highland Council. Balance at 31st March

2020 – £14,970.21. Balance at 31st March 2021 – £13,782.83. Total income – £1,620.73

Total Expenditure £2,808.83.

b) Banking update – LH has now been added as Authorised Signatory for business banking for

DCC. Two signatories are required for all banking transactions.

5. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

a) All residents appear to be adhering to the Covid19 Lockdown Guidelines.

b) It has been noticed there is a slight increase in visitors, bikers and overnight camping,

which is raising concerns amongst residents. It is important that all residents feel safe. MC

advised residents can confidentially report any breaches. This can be done on the Police

Scotland website by completing the online form. Please do not call 999 or 101 to report

these breaches.

6. Matters Arising

a) Speed Limit through the village – Speed limit will not be decreased. However, speed

calming measures will be implemented with road surfacing markings. The issue with

drainage on A889 will also be addressed at the same time. This work will be carried out in

the next 12 months. JD has requested a timeline from BEAR.

JD still has concerns the 40MPH speed limit does not extend through the village past the

distillery to the bridge and will be pushing to have this reviewed. JD

Advised work will be carried out on 14th and 15th March from 7pm to 7am each night, on

the A889/old Military Road. An update will be posted on the DCC Facebook page.

b) A86 Spean Bridge maintenance work – a convoy system will be introduced during the

upgrade. JD will post all details on the DCC Facebook page.

c) Station Road Grass Cutting – Jimmy has now retired. Nigel Widgery has been

approached and he is happy to complete this task. JD will review the options of paying an

hourly rate or a price per cut.

d) Dalwhinnie “Dark Skies” – JB advised the light pollution around the village may be an

issue, distillery, street lighting, train station and the A9.

JD advised, HC put the lights in along Ben Alder and Station Road in 2015 and at the

moment they can’t be turned off or dimmed. The lights along the Main Road, don’t get

switched off but appear to be dimmed. JD will take this forward to investigate options

available.

LH (CNPA) advised there are strict criteria for “Dark Skies” and agreed to pass all

relevant information to JD to allow us to take this forward.

e) Scotrail – Deborah Munday and Angus Munday are the Volunteer/Adopters for

Dalwhinnie Railway Station. They will look after the plants and planters at the station.

Angus Munday is also a member of the “Highland Line Volunteer Group.

The clock at the station will be restored and painted, overseen by Jules Akel.

Scotrail advised the “Montgomery Plaque” has been removed because of a dent.

Funds are available to arrange to replace this. The plaque has been located, DCC

asked for the plaque to be returned, we will arrange to have it repaired and replaced.

f) Art postcards – 500 were ordered and we received 750, we weren’t charged for the over

print. These are now for sale at £2.00 in the garage. The proceeds will be

split 50% between Artist and DCC. The price can be reviewed. These are designed as Art

cards and include a message about the artist, our website and logo.

RM advised these Art cards help generate an income for DCC whilst allowing the

Artist to promote their work. No other village does this. RM suggested we make the cards

available at other locations. JD will contact Balsporran B&B, the Distillery and the Hotel

about this. MC also suggested contacting Iona Gallery in Kingussie.

Feedback from residents regarding different pictures and greeting cards are welcomed.

g) Drainage – JD advised Highland Council have now temporarily addressed the flooding

issue on Station Road. They attempted to clear the blockages, however it will require the

use of a Jetter which should be in the next 2 weeks. There is a possibility the drains have

collapsed. HC are dealing with this matter – ongoing.

h) Dalwhinnie Logo – DCC would like to thank everyone for their constructive feedback.

With these comments in mind the logo now includes Distillery, Hotel, Loch and wildlife.

DCC would like to thank SF for all her efforts and hard work.

Adopting this revised Dalwhinnie Logo, was proposed by JD and seconded by LC.

i) Fibre Internet – LC advised still not receiving responses from OpenReach and confirmed

Dalwhinnie doesn’t qualify for Fibre Internet and there are no plans to upgrade our

area. We are to be included in the R100 Scheme but it will be next year before

anything happens. LH(CNPA) advised the contract has been awarded for the North of

Scotland and a review will be taken as to who will be included. LH(CNPA) agreed to keep

DCC updated.

j) Areas for tidy up – Ben Alder Road – JD advised MS has agreed to finish the clearing.

If not completed by the end of March, JD and SC will arrange to have it completed.

Grampian View – No update

LH, in the role of DCC Secretary will write to the owner of the fields on the main road,

to raise the concerns of DCC again, that keeping these fields tidy is an ongoing issue.

The area in and around the Green Shed on the main road, has been tidied up and this

is being maintained. Thank you.

Network Rail Land – No update. Owner of Station Cottage advised JD there was a train

crash at Dalwhinnie during the War. It could be suggested to Network rail that a Dual

Memorial could be erected on this land.

MC suggested the “Great Place Project” to generate interest around Dalwhinnie.

LH(CNPA) advised they are on that project and agreed to liaise with JD.

k) Litter signs – JD advised these have now been prepared and are similar message to

the ones used by Laggan “Take your litter home”, hope to be implemented across

Badenoch. The cost of 25 approx £300/£400. JD will approach sign companies to

formally quote and private landowners to ask for permission to erect these.

l) No Parking Signs – JD advised these have now been ordered from Fraser Signs, and

will be placed along Station Road and at the turning circle. These will be placed on

private land with owners permission.

m) Temporary Car Park – Ben Alder Road – DCC are very appreciative of the hard work

carried out to maintain this car park. 2 teams of 6 men from 2 estates completed

remedial work on a temporary basis to the existing parking area. This was at no cost to

DCC and we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those involved. JD and LH

will arrange for a letter of thanks to be sent on behalf of DCC. JD advised car park signs

have been ordered. DCC will also review putting in place a Donations meter.

n) Permanent Car Park – Ardverikie Estate have offered DCC a corner of the field behind

the School Hostel. This would be on a 50 year lease for approx £1.00. This will need to

be approved by planning and the issue with drainage and access along with any

objections will be taken into consideration at that time. JD advised this in ongoing and

any updates will be discussed at our next meeting.

o) Website – SC advised our website is now with the new provider and SF can complete

an overhaul of the site. DCC would like to encourage all members and residents to

spare a few minutes to look at the Dalwhinnie.org site. Is there anything you’d like to see

added, the colours and layouts used etc ?? All constructive feedback is welcomed.

7. Planning Matters

a) Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – CF advised this has now gone to full planning. In

the meantime work is being carried out to prepare and tidy the site. DCC have not yet

received formal notice from HC, JD will inquire about this.

8. Any other Business

a) LH (CNPA) advised that Cairngorm Park is very keen and supportive of this idea of the

Camper/Motorhome site.

b) LH(CNPA) would like to promote The Business Partnership for all businesses in Dalwhinnie

This would help promote local businesses and put Dalwhinnie on the map. JD agreed to

send details to local businesses.

c) JD advised we have festive lights that DCC will not be using, but they still work, if any

business would like to make the use of them, please get in touch.

d) Bonny Barrel Discs will be getting attached in the next few weeks. No date for this year’s

event has been set yet. Anyone who didn’t take part last year but would like to this year,

please let us know ASAP so we can arrange to get a barrel for you.

e) DCC would like to ask residents for stories and pictures for the 2nd Dalwhinnie book. This

is a good way of promoting the village and raising funds for DCC.

f) The newly formed DCC has been together for 1 year. SC would like to thank all involved

for everything that has been achieved as a team in the last 12 months.

Dates for Future Meetings

Now moved to Tuesday evenings to avoid all Monday bank holidays

April – Tuesday 6th April 2021

May – Tuesday 4th May 2021

June – Tuesday 1st June 2021

Download DCC Finance Report AGM 2020-2021:

DCC finance report AGM 2020-21

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council Agenda held Tuesday 2nd February 2021 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council – Minutes

Date – Tuesday 2nd February 2021

1. 1. Welcome

1. 1. JB, joined us this month. It has been agreed MC and JB will alternate their attendance.
   2. Edward Mountain MSP, who requested to join.

1. 2. Attendees –  JD, SC, LH, SF, LC, JM, JB, EM 

AF and CF experienced technical difficulties and couldn’t login to the call successfully.

1. 3. Previous Minutes

Approved minutes from 30th November 2020 meeting, proposed SC, Seconded LC.

1. 4. Treasurer’s Report

1. 1. Banking update, £13,834.83
   2. No Spending in December
   3. January Spend – Reimbursed LH and JD for Christmas Gifts given to Heather (Postlady) on behalf of DCC as a thankyou for the help she has given us through the year, postage for Christmas cards to further afield associates, and 2 months of Website hosting.
   4. £192.14, was paid by the new DCC banking debit card for the Website Host for 3 years.
   5. Book Fund – No further sales – Unable to promote due to Covid restrictions.
   6. CF removed and LH added as a Signatory for DCC online banking.
   7. LH confirmed not received Card or Card Reader – SC will chase this up with BOS.
   8. Treasurer’s Report to be prepared and sent to Highland Council, for AGM next month.

1. 5. 5. Matters Arising – Covid 19 – Awareness

1. 1. There was thought to be a suspected case in the village. We were made aware a member of the community had been admitted to hospital.  As a precaution all family members did self isolate. We have been advised all tested negative for Coronavirus. 
   2. Suspected break-ins and thefts in the surrounding area – Wolftrax, Bike Hub, in Grantown-on-Spey and a Land Rover and trailer (we understand was used in the theft of the bikes) was stolen from Kingussie. 
   3. JM advised there was also an attempted break-in at Creag Megaidh
   4. JD agreed to send emails to the neighbouring Estates and to Alan Dawson, to make them all aware.
   5. All residents appear to be adhering to the Covid19 Lockdown Guidelines. 
   6. It has been noticed that there are not as many walkers coming into the area.

1. 6. Website Hosting

Previously we were paying separately, 2 companies for domain(Godaddy) and host (Bluehost $) and also incurring a foreign conversion fee.  JD advised Bluehost offered a 50% discount, for a 3 year package, which included 1 year Security and Backup, along with 5 new email addresses, for £192.14. SF has successfully migrated the website to the new £ account.   

JD would encourage everyone to look at the website and provide constructive feedback directly to SF for future developments/changes and updates.

 

1. 7. 7. Matters Arising

1. 1. DCC would like to welcome Andy, Jo and Alfred Riddell, who recently purchased the Cafe and Bunkhouse.  It is their intention to open the Cafe/Bar for meals, Quizes and Folk nights. Opening hours (subject for review) 4pm – 10/11pm. The family will be a welcome addition to the village and we would like to wish them every success in their new venture.
   2. Speed Limit through the village – Upon the completion of the traffic lights on the bridge, BEAR put forward a suggestion that the 40MPH limit be extended to the bridge.  The previous DCC, also tried to get the limit reduced to 30MPH, through the village. Both of these requests had been submitted and declined by Police Scotland.  Reason given, that not enough houses on the main road to pose a threat.

The road through the village is busy and very few seem to adhere to the speed limit.

JD suggested we could put forward a request to have “Flashing Signs” to slow down and DCC could look to partially fund this.

EM advised Highland Council (HC) should be supplying and paying for these signs for the village and he will write to the HC on our behalf, cc BEAR.  JD will also write to HC.

JB also added his support.

1. 1. Scotrail – Services stopping at Dalwhinnie have been cut, due to lack of demand during lockdown, which the DCC understands.  LC will contact Scotrail to raise our concerns and to put forward a suggestion of “Stop on Request”. 

EM also agreed to contact Alex Hines (Scotrail) on our behalf, regarding the “Stop on Request” and to ensure no trains stopping at Dalwhinnie will be cancelled in the future.

1. 1. Postcards –  JD has arranged, with Rory Mcpherson,for a small batch of postcards to be produced at a cost of approx £80.00.  We can then gauge the interest, for future orders. 
   2. Salt Bins – JD advised ongoing discussion with Bear, DCC would like to see extra salt bins at,Turning Point on Ben Alder Road, Garage/Hotel and the carpark at Balsporran.

  JD advised the bin at the Railway station has been filled. Bin at school is now classed as private, and will be the responsibility of the Hostel owner. 

1. 1. f) Drainage  – JD advised Bear are aware there is a problem and are working on a programme to fix the issues.

The drainage issue on Station Road, is Highland council’s responsibility – no update.

1. 1. g) Badenoch Heritage Representative – JD advise that Andy Riddell has agreed to represent Dalwhinnie and has made contact with the Chair of Badenoch Heritage and HIS application is submitted.
   2. h) Memorial to RAF site –  SC advised the RAF are happy to be a part of this, however, are unable to help financially.  SC will continue to collate information and investigate the availability of Grants – on going.
   3. i) Memorial Site – The fence has been repaired. Until sandblasting takes place to remove rust, painting is on hold.  There is also a tree which needs to be taken down.  JD advised HC are aware of these issues, however, not a priority for them at the moment. 
   4. j) Dalwhinnie Logo/The Meeting Place – Ongoing.

There have been mixed reviews with the proposed logo.  JD has reached out to the          community to gauge the likes and dislikes.  All constructive feedback is welcome and will be noted.  It is important to get this right but we are aware we won’t please everyone.

SF will look into the different ideas and prepare different layouts. 

1. 1. k) Fibre Internet – Ongoing –  No update

LC advised still not received a response to numerous emails sent to OpenReach.

EM agreed to contact BT on our behalf.

1. 1. l) Highland Community Gathering and Bonny Barrel Marketing

JD advised we have the metal discs and are looking for volunteers to attach to the barrels. SC and David Haggarty are happy to assist with this. SC will liaise with AF.

1. 1. m) Areas for tidy up – Update

JD has spoken with the owner of the Grampian Hotel land.  There are plans to develop this site, but on hold at the moment due to current restrictions.  The owner has given her 

Permission for DCC to put “No Parking” signs along the property on Station Road.

JD will arrange to purchase these on behalf of DDC. 

“No Parking” signs will also be placed at the turning point on Ben Alder Road.

Wasteland on Ben Alder Road –  JD and SC will arrange to clean this land up and will cover the cost personally.  DCC will then continue to maintain this land.

Horse field on the main road – we appreciate an effort has been made to tidy this area, however, it is an ongoing project.  It was agreed, after the AGM, LH in the role of    Secretary, will contact the owner to raise these concerns again.

The area in and around the Green Shed on the main road, has been tidied up and this is being maintained. Thank you.

1. 1. n) Litter signs for all affect layby/car parks – Ongoing

JD advised we have not progressed with this as waiting on the logo being finalised.

1. 1. o) Litter Pick – this will be arranged once the weather improves.

1. 8. Planning Matters
   9. a) Proposed Base Station Upgrade at Drumochter – DCC are happy to support this.

Any upgrades and improvements to services in the area can benefit the community.

1. 1. b) Proposed Camper/Motorhome site – JD advised has possibly gone to planning?  AF and CF will update at the next meeting.
   2. c) Proposed Car park  – Ongoing

JD advised the planning application has been withdrawn due to an issue with access. Discussions between Ardverikie Estate and HC are ongoing. An update to be confirmed in 2 weeks.

1. 9. 9. Any other Business

1. 1. Ross Dakers has shown an interest in helping with the 2nd Dalwhinnie book.
   2. As from March 2021, Jimmy Smith is unable to cut the grass along Station Road. 

JD suggested asking Nigel Widgery if he would be interested. 

Dates for Future Meetings

March – Monday 1st March 2021 (AGM)

April – Monday 29th March 2021

May – Monday 26th April 2021

 

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council Agenda held Tuesday 30th November 2020 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community council – Minutes

Date – Monday 30th November 2020 – 6pm

1. WELCOME

a) MC, joined us this month. It has been agreed that MC and JB will alternate their attendance.

2. Attendees, JD, SC, LH, AF, CF, LC, SF, JM, MC

3. Previous minutes

a) Approve minutes from 2nd November meeting, proposed SC, Seconded CF

4. Treasures report

a) Banking update, £14,106.39 total

b) Reimburse JD who has paid for the Website domain name and hosting for one month.

c) Applying for a DCC debit card.

d) CF being replace by LH as secretary signatory. SC will arrange this.

e) £40 transferred from DCC account to Book account for book sales.

5. Matters arising – Covid 19

a) Covid 19 Highlands now in Tier one, please remain vigilant. Dalwhinnie quiet, LC confirmed he

has guests at the moment.

b) MC confirmed that all quiet re Covid 19 – MC raised concerns about food poverty. No known

issues in Dalwhinnie. However, it was agreed JD and AF will arrange for a flyer to be sent out to

all households in the village with relevant information about food banks, heating costs etc. This

will include telephone numbers and email addressed which can all be dealt with confidentially.

6. Website Hosting

We are currently paying separately 2 companies for domain name (Godaddy), and hosting

(bluehost). We would like to research changing the website hosting company to a cheaper

alternative and amalgamate the domain name to the new company. JD to look into what deals

Bluehost can offer and investigate other hosting companies, SF is happy to move the site across

to a new hosting company. We require a good service with back up and a good price.

7. Matters Arising

Postcard for DCC/Dalwhinnie

a. JD shared a picture of the proposed postcard, featuring a view from the back of the

Distillery.

b. Artist happy to give a small percentage of sales.

c. Costings to be discussed.

d. SF agreed to have the DCC logo completed to allow it to be added to the postcard.

Winter resilience service volunteers

a. JD has a list of salt bins and where to be placed.

b. If more needed JD will request.

Drainage around the village – JD awaiting response from Bear, JD will follow up.

Badenoch Heritage representative for Dalwhinnie – This should be a resident of the village, JD

will put a call out to Community to try and fill the role.

Christmas Cards

a. SC has signed cards of behalf DCC.

b. LH has addressed the envelopes.

c. SF, LC, CF, LH have agreed to hand deliver the cards.

d. LH will divide into bundles and allocate. LH and AF will co-ordinate.

e. JD and LH will arrange for cards to be sent to Estate owners and local councillors.

Memorial To RAF – SC still in talks with DA to get information & RAF for support, no update.

Memorial Site

a. Trees have been cleared.

b. The fence has been repaired but requires to be sandblasted to make safer. Once this has

been done DCC will arrange to paint it – ongoing.

Dalwhinnie Logos/marketing

a. SF is hoping to have options for us to choose from, completed in the next 7 days.

Dalwhinnie Village Logo to include a compass, “Scotlands Meeting Place”.

b. The DCC logo to include Dalwhinnie Tartan. AF will send SF a copy of the tartan.

Fibre Internet Access for Dalwhinnie

a. LC advised waited over 2 months for a reply. BT advised it would cost the Community

£450,000 to get connected.

b. MC advised there is a Community Broadband Scheme available. MC also advised to

contact local MP’s and Drew Henry, LC agreed to follow this up.

c. JD also agreed to send emails to raise this issue.

Highland community Gathering and Bonny Barrel Marketing – AF confirmed these will be

completed in the next 7 days. Arrangements will then be put in place to send out to all those

involved.

Areas for tidy up

a. Ben Alder Road Hillwalker carpark – JD advised in planning – no update yet. Concerns

raised as there is a deadline for the grant. JD will chase this up.

b. Waste land on Ben Alder Road – Tidy up not complete – ongoing, JM advised he will

arrange for trailer to remove any debris from the site. JD and SC made us aware of

“Plant Britain Campaign” this site would be ideal for planting Bushes, Hedgerow Tress

and local young trees. It would also prevent fly tipping and would keep the area

naturally tidy.

c. Telephone Exchange – Apologies received from BT/Openreach, for the state of the site.

They have now put arrangements in place at the site and started tidy up – ongoing.

d. The Horses Fields on the main road – an effort was made to tidy these areas, however, it

is an ongoing project. A follow up email to be sent from DCC as a gentle reminder.

e. The Old Hotel Site – The tidy up is still ongoing – LH agreed to speak to David Haggarty,

who will speak to owner for an update.

f. The area in and around the Green Shed on the main road – AF will make the owner

aware the issue was raised at the DCC meeting and update with owners response at

next meeting.

Litter signs – JD advised no update, however all agreed the signs need to be in place by Spring.

Delivery Charges – Higher costs for rural communities – Everyone agreed this is an issue that

needs to be taking forward. JD and LH will do this on behalf of the community.

Litter Pick

a. This has been arranged for Sunday 6th December at 10am.

b. Thank you to all who volunteered.

c. JD advised we should initially all meet at the hotel. We’ll be split into 3 teams and meet

back at hotel when finished.

d. Bin bags, gloves and hiVis clothing will be provided.

e. DCC will provide a hot drink when finished (JD will speak to Colin to arrange the use of

the hotel) along with some home baking provided by JD and LH. JD will arrange to

collect the full bin bags on the day. CF will contact the Council to arrange for these bags

to be uplifted.

8. Planning matters

a. Proposed camper/motorhome development in early stages – still in pre planning. No

update. CF advised will contact them again for an update.

b. Proposed carpark Ben Alder Road – into planning 27/10/20, DCC have submitted a letter

of support. JD advised no update

9. Any other Business

a. JD advised it took over two hours to read and clear the emails DCC had received. Going

forward this is not a workable task for one person. JD would like us all to share the load

and will delegate going forward. All agreed.

b. Winter lights – JD advised grant been applied for.

c. A889 – the permanent traffic lights are now in position and all working. One more road

closure scheduled for February/March to complete the Crubenmore road junction.

d. Karen Martin – Grantown – 17th December 2020 – Businesses in our Area – JD has sent

email to members who has a local business and would like to attend and represent the

community to see how this can help us.

Dates for future meetings:

2020 – 2021 Meetings:

January: 4th January 2021

February: Monday 1st February 2021

March: Monday 1st March 2021 (AGM)

April: Monday 29th March

May: Monday 26th April

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Tuesday 2nd November 2020 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community council – Minutes 

Date – Tuesday 2^nd November 2020 1800hrs 

1. 1. WELCOME and Apologies

1. 1. MC, JM and SF apologise but cannot make this evening. JB could not link into the zoom meeting despite several attempts, the zoom/internet connection failing.

1. 2. Attendees, JD, SC, LH, AF, CF, LC, 
   3. Previous minutes

1. 1. Approve minutes from 5^th October meeting, proposed SC, Seconded LC

1. 4. Treasures report

1. 1. Banking update, £14,106.39 total
   2. Outstanding is website domain name and hosting to pay. Trying to get direct debit set up as we do not have a DCC debit card. Otherwise we will use a personal credit/debit card and be reimbursed to pay this.
   3. Grant applications – JAD sent out grants information to local businesses that are interested.
   4. Dalwhinnie book bank details arrived, MM in process of switching to SC to manage. £178 transferred from DCC account to Book account for book sales, as yet no access to statements/current balance.

1. 5. Matters arising – Covid 19

1. 1. Covid 19 Highlands now in Tier one, but please remain vigilant and ensure you are aware of the guidance.
   2. It is possible a lockdown is coming, and we remain on standby with the 3CX Covid response phone line for Dalwhinnie on. JD, SC, AF regularly checking in to ensure we remain connected. 
   3. Winter resilience discussed below, (snow clearing etc), although services may be affected if positive cases amongst HC road staff occur. 

1. 6. Matters Arising

• • Members

1. 1. Welcome to new member Lynn Haggarty who was co-opted on as a member in the last month. JD Proposed, AF seconded, and all members sent an email approval. 3 years living in Dalwhinnie, used to be a secretary in work. She is happy to join team.
   2. Role of Secretary – LH, SC proposed and, CF seconded, all members voted in support.
   3. Thanks to CF until now ensuring we were able to form DCC initially and he will remain as an active member.

• • Community Art postcard

1. 1. RM has suggested community postcards for DCC using artist style like Jolomo, or similar with percentage sale shared between DCC/Artist?
   2. Currently JA has postcards on sale at the garage privately.
   3. Community art card, very good idea but image must be Dalwhinnie or the area.
   4. Price also must be appropriate, £1 per card suggested.
   5. JD to contact RM with approval and to ask for information on barcode system and how it works for artist/DCC?

• • Winter resilience service volunteers -salt bins where? paths to clear?

1. 1. Top of station road – have bin, need salt
   2. End of Ben Alder road turning circle – new bin and salt required
   3. Old School Hostel drive – have bin, need salt 
   4. Paths adjacent to garage, opposite hotel along to bus stop/memorial 2-3 required – new bins and salt required
   5. Up by distillery – to be checked, ideally should be 2 bins and salt

• • Drainage/flooding around the village BEAR – 

1. 1. End station road/meets A899 – blocked drains, big flood at weekend, (31stOct)
   2. Layby opposite hotel and around hotel area, blocked drains – washing into field across footpath when cars/trucks go through it, 3 buckets of sludge removed from drains by AF/CF at hotel area.
   3. Hostel area, Ben Alder road/station road, new drain addition as water collects there.
   4. Highland council/BEAR – to be contacted again also in relation to drainage channels flooding Scotrac.
   5. Consult locals on community on facebook with a poll – get local feedback 
   6. MC offered to assist further

• • Winter lights for A889/main road through Dalwhinnie

1. 1. JD received email with application for installing winter lights through BEAR
   2. Also received email catalogue for lights – members to look and feedback preferences to JD.
   3. If we are to install lights along main road costs to be investigated, and an application for a development grant to purchase winter lights not festive lights.
   4. 41 street lights from south to north end of village by distillery, 15 of which from North village sign to distillery.
   5. Possibly install on every second lamppost, mix of 3 winter lights (not festive).

• • Badenoch Heritage representative for Dalwhinnie?

1. 1. BC stepping down, JAD asked to join
   2. JD is Chair of DCC and new trustee of DCDT so asked for another representative from Dalwhinnie, good for someone with business in Dalwhinnie.
   3. AF suggested younger rep, CF or LC will look into and consider and get back to JD.

• • Christmas cards – signed on behalf of DCC

1. 1. Date to be ready for delivery 12^th December
   2. SC, JD to write, LH to help write names/addresses on envelopes
   3. SF, LC help deliver

• • Local government & communities – participation requests and asset transfers?

1. 1. Complicated and no-one on team has experience so will not submit survey.

• • Memorial to RAF (approx. 15 deceased on BAE)? 

1. 1. DCC and all parties agreed to look into this for 2021 onwards.
   2. Memorial cairn and information board at a new memorial site – JD has approached Network rail for a memorial on land opposite the station, been requested to appropriate personnel at network rail. This will also ensure this area remains appropriately managed.
   3. RAF/RBL to be contacted after armistice day – looking at project, funding and ongoing support. Memorial site could be added to in longer term, appropriate gardening/plants/trees.
   4. Maintenance plan needed beyond its inception, so grant options maybe investigated. Possibly network rail working with DCC, or Scotrail volunteer, extended grant from network rail/RAF to look after the site?
   5. Information board at carpark entering BAE, TA in support of this.

• • Memorial site

1. 1. Tree debris removed, fence to be removed and repaired by HC 
   2. Memorial service, SC spoke with Aviemore RBL, wreath will be brought from Badenoch branch. This branch will close soon due to ageing members etc. SC has offered to collect and lay wreath.
   3. Attempting to get crosses for armistice day for locals to place over course of day.
   4. Poppy’s sourced by DCC now available at hotel and service station, donations will be returned via RBL, HS or Royal mail

• • Dalwhinnie logos/marketing – The meeting place

1. 1. Dalwhinnie Village logo – JH at Distillery informed not to use Distillery logo, so compass is still preference – SF to investigate appropriate style.
   2. DCC logo – no update on tartan – JD to chase.

• • Fibre internet access for Dalwhinnie

1. 1. No update on feasibility study yet – email sent to chase up. 
   2. We know Fibre is at the exchange, both BAE and Distillery have informed us.

• • Highland Bonny Barrel marketing

1. 1. Metal year discs for all included barrels – no update due to workload will be sorted by end of 2020.

• • Areas for tidy up Update: 

1. 1. Waste land on Ben Alder road – DCC volunteers started rest of tidy up, using mini digger and locally owned vehicles/trailers, to be finished by 08/11/20.
   2. Telephone exchange, Openreach, “BT security” registered on 20 day work schedule for addressing asap, 20/10/2020
   3. Network rail station area – cut/strimmed back after consultation, rail bridge on 2021-22 CAPEX schedule for repaint, Scotrail investigating Montgomery plaque after building repaint, and also patron only parking signs.

• • Badenoch initiative – LITTER signs, laybys/carparks

1. 1. Kingussie keen to be involved, nothing back form Netwonmore/Kincraig yet

• • A889 Railway bridge at Dalwhinnie – structural work 2020 underway

1. 1. Signage – blown over in winds at weekend but all seems ok now.

• • SMART VILLAGES – update

1. 1. Due to work ongoing at BGPP it is felt there is enough going on with websites, app development etc, therefore Growbiz will work with CNPA to look at taking the initiative park wide rather than with only Badenoch.
   2. Support and /or mentoring for local businesses however can sought – contact Merle Palmer, Operations manager at Growbiz. merle@growbiz.co.uk 

1. 7. Planning matters

1. 1. Proposed camper/motorhome development in early stages – waiting to hear back on pre-planning in process of chasing them up.
   2. Proposed carpark Ben Alder Road – into planning 27/10/20, DCC have submitted a letter of support.

1. 8. Any other Business

Dates for future meetings:

2020 – 2021 Meetings:

No December meeting unless deemed required, dates moved to end of month to avoid all bank holidays and busy periods.

November: Monday 30^th November

January: 18^th January 2021

February:22^nd February 2021

March: 29^th March 2021 (Proposed AGM date)

April: 26^th April 2021

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Tuesday 5th October 2020 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community council – Agenda

Date – Tuesday 5^th October 2020 1800hrs 

1. 1. WELCOME and Apologies 

1. 1. Rory McPherson apologies but due to work cannot attend.

1. 2. Attendees JD, SC, JM, JB, LC, SF, CF, MC, AF
   3. Previous minutes 

1. 1. minutes from 1^st September meeting, proposed SC, Seconded LC

1. 4. Treasures report (SC)

1. 1. Spreadsheet showing via a shared screen, to itemise and keep track of DCC spending/grant payments was displayed. This organises and manages spending into categories for ease of updating Highland Council each year and is mirroring BOS statements for clarity.
   2. Grants received from HC include a payment for DCDT – now forwarded. Our annual grant of £412.98, also the covid resilience fund to repay JD for expenditure earlier this year, £153.19.
   3. VABS have funded/reimbursed ZOOM payments to JD (£139.56), so the ZOOM Pro account is in place until end August 2021 as currently required for CC meetings due to Covid guidance.
   4. Dalwhinnie book sales (£10 per book) at 18 (1 at locals price of £8). £178 has been deposited into DCC account until we take on the Book account when RM/MM hand this onto SC who will manage on behalf of the book and second edition.  Jules Akel, Rory McPherson, Douglas Abercrombie (custodian on information for Dalwhinnie), are all involved with 2nd edition. All Dalwhinnie residents are invited to get in touch with DCC or the named above if you would like to contribute material, discuss or have questions about the book or 2^nd edition. Original Dalwhinnie families are especially invited to engage in the project to ensure information is accurately and appropriately portrayed.

1. 5. Matters arising – Covid 19

1. 1. Covid 19 – awareness that numbers are increasing and hitting remote/local areas. 
   2. 3CX helpline for Dalwhinnie is still running JD & SC are updating on the app to ensure someone is always on call. Can call on CF/AF to assist if required in future.
   3. Councillors are now involved in weekly meetings specific to ward areas, and numbers going up, concerns around schools and communities with Fort William now having a rise in cases.
   4. Council are preparing to manage what occurs with winter on the way and involve and update Community Councils/Covid response teams/support groups as required. 
   5. Logistics are all being considered (such as road clearing for winter) with possible increased unwell workers. HC are discussing/trying to put in place action plans for such situations locally and across the region.

1. 6. Matters Arising

• • Members/Office bearers & resignations

1. 1. Rory McPherson standing down from both DCDT & DCC for personal reasons. DCC thank RM for all his efforts and information on behalf of Dalwhinnie Community as a whole. JD hope he will remain an active resident sharing idea and information as currently. 
   2. CF will remain as an active member but has stood down officially as DCC secretary due to increased workload and home commitments. 
   3. JD has been covering secretary duties since the summer months, it involves overseeing communications on behalf of DCC, letters, communications for projects, taking minutes. 
   4. Of the 7 current DCC members each have different roles and are active in their own area’s therefore we are looking for a new member, who would be willing to take on the role of Secretary.
   5. We will advertise a DCC member position on Facebook community page stating we would like a Secretary to step forward where possible.

• • Meeting dates agreed below 

1. 1. AGM will be the 2^nd November 2020

• • DCDT update

1. 1. As RM has stepped down from DCDT, JD will to offer to join DCDT as a member once DCC has a secretary but cannot take an office bearer’s position to allow connection between DCC and DCDT.
   2. Update from BC, please see attached document all points were shared with DCC.
   3. DCDT Christmas cards have been supplied by RM to DCC, to be delivered to each household/associate, SC/JD to write out, LC and SF to help deliver and help as they can. List of recipients will be shared when we have it. We will ask Heather (postie) to deliver is COVID restrictions suggest we cannot hand deliver.
   4. Village hall idea from SC: Share-zone donation library for community to borrow items to use for short-term, return to the library afterwards, needs thought for beyond 2021.

• • Local government & communities

1. 1. Participation requests and asset transfers survey – JD to resend to members to look at. Lack of experience in this area at this point, therefore some business owners may have experience to complete the survey.

• • Memorial to RAF (approx. 15 casualties on BAE, all named) 

1. 1. Tim Atkinson (BAE) and Douglas Abercrombie in discussions regarding RAF memorial to fallen, we need to ensure all parties are agreed before proceeding in Dalwhinnie village. 
   2. Proposal for a memorial cairn and information boards around the village or at memorial site for locals.  It is thought the memorial site in Dalwhinnie is for fallen locals therefore a memorial for RAF maybe best sited elsewhere. Survey to ask original local families and residents for their thoughts and feedback on this.
   3. Information board at new carpark site entering BAE and/or near picnic area in Dalwhinnie, hotel/garage, with memorial site in village/on Ben Alder Estate?
   4. SC to contact TA at Ben Alder Estate, the RAF and Royal British Legion.
   5. JD to inform Cairngorms National park although BAE just outside the park.

• • Dalwhinnie Memorial site

1. 1. Tree/HC update Sean Malone at HC confirmed the tree is on the work schedule with fence to be looked at/repaired afterwards. 
   2. Memorial service – still in discussion at HC. Katherine Buchan normally does Dalwhinnie, but SC/TA need to investigate. New guidance from Scottish Legion has been posted by DA, JD to send to all DCC members and TA. 

• • Dalwhinnie logos/marketing – “The meeting place” will go forwards.

1. 1. Dalwhinnie Village logo should look/speak with the distillery as their logo may work within/alongside the compass idea shared by SC. SF will get a 1^st draft idea by end of week to members, although JD to contact JH to discuss tying in with distillery.
   2. DCC logo – tartan Dalwhinnie similar to Laggan, JD to check with RM on tartan use.

• • Website new server.

1. 1. No new server recommendations. Idea to incorporate email addresses via our website, but as CC this may not be a priority. Decision is to look at traffic for website over 10-12 months, may renew to alternate server 2021 if required.

• • Fibre internet access for Dalwhinnie 

1. 1. Distillery & Ben Alder estate both have fibre – it is in the village.  Distillery are happy for us to piggyback. Also Scotrac have fibre cables on their land but unsure of connection. 
   2. LC updated, Dalwhinnie has oldest equipment Openreach engineers has seen, box may need replaced, as very old. The feasibility has been assigned to an engineer and ongoing assessment will be updated. LC will chase this week.

• • Highland community Gathering and Bonny Barrel marketing

1. 1. Metal year discs for all included barrels – Responsibility to arrange CF or AF

• • Areas for tidy up Update: 

1. 1. Ben Alder Road Hillwalker carpark – Grant from Green fund approved, DCC awarded £6000 required. Ardverikie to apply for planning this month asap. Project to be completed 31^st March 2021.
   2. Waste land on Ben Alder road – DCC to complete removal of stone/earth and tidy up. HC has no maintenance plan for this area.
   3. Grampian Hotel site – Thank you letter for work started sent out
   4. Horse field – Thank you letter for work started sent out
   5. Telephone/BT Openreach said engineer would be in touch, JD to follow up.

• • Any other sites –

1. 1. Bollards around cycle path coming into the village from south – too tight together – this was to stop gamekeepers (now going up bank) Persons now being injured due to siting of bollard near bridge. JD to contact David Clyne at CNCP for advice.

• • Grass cutting – DH cut early Sept DCC agreed required once more before winter.
  • LITTER signs for affected laybys/carparks JD to contact other Badenoch CC’s again to see if we can work together on a common strategy/sign.
  • A889 Railway bridge at Dalwhinnie 

1. 1. Structural work begins 12^th October to 30^th November. Road closed 31^st October to 16^th November. 
   2. Junction north to right (old military road), is blocked by waiting cars etc – can we highlight this to BEAR. JD to contact.

• • BEAR, drainage channels flooding Scotrac/hotel carpark, winter lighting facility, despite follow up emails NO UPDATE, MC has chased and will let us know as she gets an update.
  • SMART VILLAGES – JD to send out update to members and will post on community page, businesses should look at success stories and ideas previously completed/launched. We should be collaborating and working together to ensure we make use of this opportunity.

1. 7. Planning matters

1. 1. Proposed camper/motorhome development in early stages pre-planning in.
   2. Proposed carpark funding in place – going to planning in coming weeks.

1. 8. Any other Business

1. 1. Surrounding local estates are experiencing culling of deer on behalf of “Rewilding”. 

AF to gather more information – to discuss further with TA/JM as part of DCC interest/awareness.

Future 2020 – 2021 Meetings:

October: Monday 2^nd November (AGM)

November: Monday 30^th November

January: Monday 4^th January 2021

February: Monday 1^st February 2021

March: Monday 1^st March 2021

Attached information

DCDT UPDATE FROM BILL CARR

At our Trustees meeting in July we agreed to have our next quarterly meeting later this month, but under the current circumstances Ian thinks that it would be sensible to postpone. This month’s meeting will therefore not now happen.

We’d hope to meet again later this year, but in the meantime, I’ve summarised below progress in respect of the various action’s agreed at the July meeting.

1. 1. 1.The Trust’s accounts and annual report are now on-line at the OSCR website. We’ve had no specific feedback, but I think we can safely assume that OSCR are happy.
   2. 2.The Highland Council annual village hall maintenance grant (£500 this year) has been received.
   3. 3.Lesley has formally submitted an application to access internet banking, and that’s now being processed.
   4. 4.The hall grounds have been sprayed with weedkiller (twice).
   5. 5.The hall’s application for exemption from water rates for the current year has been approved by “Business Stream” and has now been forwarded to Scottish Water for their approval.
   6. 6.Annual water quality check – in hand.
   7. 7.SEPA feedback re. possible soakaway – in hand.
   8. 8.Craft fair proposals – on hold unless the current Covid 19 guidance changes.
   9. 9.A new cooker has been acquired and installed, and the vacuum cleaner replaced.
   10. 10.Christmas cards have been sourced and offered for sale in support of hall funds. Of the 50 packs of 10 ordered, to date 29 packs have been sold.

Under the current Covid 19 guidance the hall can’t be used for public meetings or gatherings, and as these restrictions are likely to remain in force into early 2021 it’s probably safe to assume that there will be no income-generating use of the hall for the remainder of this financial year. However, assuming no unforeseen events the Trust remains in good financial shape.

Please let me know if you have any questions or comments.

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Tuesday 1st September 2020 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community council – Minutes

Date – Tuesday 1^st September 2020 1800hrs 

1. 1. WELCOME and Apologies CF, unable to attend, and MC, internet issues.
   2. Attendees, JD, SC, JM, RM, JB, LC, AF, SF
   3. Previous minutes

1. 1. 1. Minutes from July meeting, SC proposed, AF Seconded

1. 4. Treasures report

1. 1. 1. Funds remaining today £13965.85
      2. Raised £177 at Raffle, £60 spent on barrel competition prizes. 
      3. Insurance – Zurich getting quote in process previously cancelled but to be reinstated asap.
      4. Highland Council to sign off account from previous DCC. Information from the Bank has been supplied as requested by Highland Council. Awaiting annual HC grant £713.24.
      5. Grants – will apply for Green grant (Cairngorm trust) regarding carpark at Ben Alder Road.
      6. RTIF – £75,000 minimum spend on projects, declined due small scale.

1. 5. Matters arising – Covid 19

1. 1. 1. Covid 19 – VABS meeting (12/07/20), Dalwhinnie flyer updated, sent out to residents, CRT on standby with helpline available. Helpline volunteers open 3CX app weekly to stay online.
      2. New Covid cases confirmed in Grantown and Boat of Garten, 1 in Carrbridge possible, please remain vigilant, messages to hotel and Garage staff.

1. 6. Matters Arising

• • Co-opting new member – Lee Cleghorn – Proposed JD, and seconded AF 

1. 1. 1. 13 months in Dalwhinnie – renovating the old school into a hostel, opened in the last few weeks with ore renovations continuing. Looking forward to a long future here in Dalwhinnie as part of the community.
      2. Fibre broadband research through Openreach – small communities are getting elsewhere through rural grant schemes. Lee has been working on collating names/addresses of all interested residents, all interested parties must be listed by Friday 4^th September. The the process for a feasibility study by Openreach will take place. This will take 14 days, then Openreach will be make proposal on grants and opportunities to make this happen.

• • Role of Secretary, anyone who can take this role on please contact JD by Email.
  • Dalwhinnie Community Development Trust 

1. 1. 1. After a consultation meeting with all village halls in the region Dalwhinnie Village hall will not reopen this year and will take a cautious approach, it was felt this was for the best under the circumstances. 
      2. Christmas cards will be in the village by Friday 4^th September, BC will collect supplies from Garage and they will be on sale at the garage on behalf of the village hall funds. On the back there are details of the photo competition for 2021 Christmas card.

• • Website SF is managing content. 

1. 1. 1. Changing the www.Dalwhinnie.org.uk server so our email addresses can be hosted by the server eg. Chair@Dalwhinnie.org.uk, etc will require new server due to costs. Please send all recommendations regarding servers offering an inclusive service and the costs to SF. Plan will be to change this in November when our server is up for renewal.
      2. SF to send Dalwhinnie logo designed by JA in last 24 months to DCC members for consultation. Website update on colours and fonts to be considered. 
      3. DCC members were unaware the JA logo existed for Dalwhinnie itself so were also looking at the Bonny Barrel Logo (designed by SF) as a Dalwhinnie symbol/marketing.
      4. For DCC a suggestion using the Dalwhinnie tartan incorporated to a logo similar to the Laggan community council logo JA also designed a few years ago. CM of Laggan is happy for this if we choose so.
      5. Decision to be made by all DCC members for a DCC logo and a Dalwhinnie village logo/marketing strategy, working with JA and SF for the website alignment.

• • Internet access for Dalwhinnie  

1. 1. 1. Remote, business support, working from home etc. residents should register interest with Lee Cleghorn by Friday 4^th September, name, address and landline number.
      2. Check our area – https://www.scotlandsuperfast.com/check-my-area/?search=pH19+1ah&submit=Search# 
      3. For other village information assistance/learning – http://www.killearncc.org.uk/kbg.html 
      4. 25 households so far have registered with Lee

• • Dalwhinnie crest update 

1. 1. 1. RM investigated. To establish must be approved and authorised crests have a regulation system through the Lord Lyon, £2500-£5000 minimum. 
      2. No existing crest currently, prosecution is likely without authorisation for crest styles.  
      3. Decision to leave this as costs are too high and see above in Website discussions regarding future logos/marketing of Dalwhinnie.

• • Highland community Gathering and Bonny Barrel marketing

1. 1. 1. Signs for all included barrels small metal disc sign for each barrel with the year of entry.
      2. This will be an ongoing Dalwhinnie event to build on, encouraging visitors to come and see/find all the barrels during summer months and stay over the judging weekend.
      3. Thinking Wildcats in Newtonmore, Porridge in Carrbridge – Barrels in Dalwhinnie. Think tank required so all ideas to be considered for 2021 onwards. 

• • Defibrillator update 

1. 1. 1. New pads installed 01/09/2020, a £60 donation to Lucky2be here was made by DCC.

• • Memorial site

1. 1. 1. Tree came down Fri 21/07/20, DH, SC and DM removed and made area safe, residents can take firewood. 
      2. Remaining tree has been reported as unsafe to HC and also damage to railings and unsafe nature of the rotten railings. 
      3. A request for HC to assess and repair the railings around the site so DCC volunteers can paint them afterwards. Paint has been purchased by DCC for this purpose. HC will report back after assessment in 14 days time.
      4. Memorial service, SC will enquire if there is to be a service this year and who from Highland council will carry out service.  

• • Areas for tidy up Update: 

1. 1. 1. Ben Alder Road Hillwalker carpark, PL of Ardverikie estate is positive and hopeful we can move swiftly on this development. JD to communicate with him on required details for a grant application to support the project.
      2. Waste land on Ben Alder road, JD/SC paid for area to be strimmed back, dumped waste/rubbish found and collected. DCC are keen to help tidy this area up and put in place a maintenance plan that HC do not have in place currently due to lack of resources. JB has escalated the situation and request at HC. We await feedback.
      3. Horse field update a start at an improvement has been noted and commented on by a number of residents outside DCC.  This will be relayed back to the landowner as thanks to the persons concerned.
      4. Grampian Hotel site, contractors are in currently to tidy this up, and flatten the area. Again residents outside DCC are pleased and have commented. This will be relayed back to the landowners and thanks to the persons concerned.
      5. Other sites – village hall weeding but will happen only after spraying with chemicals. JA is trying to arrange the date for spraying. JD to reconnect again with LC/BC asking them to let us know when this is complete so we can assist. 
      6. Telephone exchange site overgrown and in a poor state of repair. JD to approach BT to be ask for local community support by tidying up their area.

• • Grass cutting Laggan service 

1. 1. 1. JS unwell, proposed DH should cut it, JD will organise.

• • Cardboard cut-out police 

1. 1. 1. Speed camera policeman cut out for busier months, proposed by David Haggarty, concerns around the implications and complicated issues with police, HC permit and planning costs. Also a lot on DCC agenda currently, and Traffic calming measure investigations are still out with BEAR currently. This will be relooked at in 2021/2.

• • Litter in layby’s/around Dalwhinnie

1. 1. 1. A9 layby’s & A889 Waste Suggestion DCC pay for signs locally – “Dalwhinnie (Badenoch), welcomes you to the heart of Scotland, please keep our heart healthy. TAKE YOUR LITTER HOME”. This was proposed as a BADENOCH initiative to cover the region?
      2. Concerns raised around other places in Scotland are also the heart of Scotland and we will get lost in this. Can we look at “Meeting place” or “Bonny Barrel village” – however this will mean not working with other Badenoch communities.
      3. JD began communications with HC, BEAR and other communities on original idea to work together across the communities all placing signs in their areas. 
      4. JD will email all DCC members to consider what Dalwhinnie wants to do regarding this as a decision regarding wording and working with other communities must be considered/decided on.

• • A889 Railway bridge at Dalwhinnie 

1. 1. 1. Essential maintenance work to begin 12^th October – 30^th November, road closures now avoiding school holidays will begin 31^st October for 17 days and 2 daytime closures 22^nd & 25^th November. This has been published on the Facebook community page and sent out to local businesses. 

• • BEAR main road areas 

1. 1. 1. Grass cutting taking place
      2. Update on drainage channels that flooded Scotrac, ARTCOM – No update
      3. Street light electricity ports for winter lights along main road – No update
      4. Traffic calming measures – No update

• • Christmas cards from DCDT 

1. 1. 1. DCC to buy Dalwhinnie Community Christmas cards for partners and associates we work with whilst supporting the Village hall.
      2. DCC to discuss via email and decision from all members required on a wider Christmas card distribution locally.

• • SMART VILLAGES  

1. 1. 1. Discussions with local interested partners are keen for no further online portals.
      2. Badenoch Heritage is now up and running and will support this with RM to join as a member or trustee and link DCC and DCDT to this.
      3. Ideas are welcome but require a technologically minded person to identify our needs in supporting the community and becoming digital champions etc.
      4. No further update

• • Dalwhinnie Book

1. 1. 1. 404 books are now stored by DCC and on sale in Garage, Hotel, Hostel and Balsporran. 
      2. Sales are up and Si will look at the sales numbers after the middle of the month and proceed with agreed system to get monies to the Book Fund

1. 7. Planning matters

1. 1. 1. Proposed camper/motorhome development in early stages, architects are on the job, so pricing is starting on aspects. JB asked that CF/AF arrange a pre-planning meeting with planners to assist with the process.
      2. Proposed carpark discussions with Ardverikie and grant support funding in early stages

1. 8. Any other Business

1. 1. 1. AGM is required before the end of the year proposed possibly November and maybe by Zoom again.

Discuss dates for future meetings:

2020 – 2021 Meetings:

September: No Meeting unless required.

October: Monday 26^th October

November: Monday 30^th November

December: pushed into January

January: 4^th January 2021

February: 22^nd February 2021

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Tuesday 27th July 2020 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council
Meeting Minutes from meeting on
27/06/2020 at 6pm conducted via Zoom Video Conference

1. WELCOME and Apologies; JM, SF, apologise due to work commitments unable to attend. Welcome to Liz Henderson from CNCP, Councillor’s John Bruce and Muriel Cockburn. 
2. Attendees; JB, MC, JD, SC, AF, LH, RM, CF
3. Previous minutes

1. 1. Minutes from June meeting, AF proposed, SC Seconded

4. Treasurers report. 

1. 1. DCC banking update, internet business banking account in place– 2 signatories required for all transactions, SC, JD, AF currently, cheque or bank transfers require receipt/invoice. Payments have been made to refund expenditure on behalf of DCC. 
   2. Grass cutting, additional barrels for Bonny Barrel Competition, website domains, hosting and software. Current balance around £14,000. 

5. Matters arising – Covid 19/Pandemic 

1. 1. The area is considerably busier, people from all over UK stopping in, local businesses are following Guidance and everything appears very positive. 
   2. Disappointingly some rubbish bags have been left, it appears, from some campervans/caravans near the Distillery access. Issue discussed in MA General and AOB.

6. Matters Arising General 

• Secretary role presently held by CF – he would welcome a volunteer to take this role on. 
• Co-opting new council members 

1. 1. Rory McPherson, Nominated Jen Dickinson, Seconded by Simon Conroy.  RM co-owns a property in Dalwhinnie, visits regularly, is keen to support the positive future and gathering/recording the history of the village, has been Chair of the Scotland + NI branch of the Clan Macpherson Association for last 2 years.

• Dalwhinnie Community Development Trust. 

1. 1. RM has recently taken on role as trustee. 
   2. DCC ideas list for Village Hall and working together has been shared with DCDT. 
   3. LH confirmed that a meeting general meeting for the village hall in Highlands has been arranged for Tuesday 28^th July looking at current restrictions and possible changes, it is confirmed that DCDT attending. Updates will follow to help with use, hopefully some restrictions relaxed in future. Update to follow in August RM.

• Website 

1. 1. SF has control –please look/check and feedback any typo’s or areas requiring update? 
   2. At present search engines are not finding www.dalwhinnie.org.uk 
   3. JD updated link with CNPA and VABS and now updated/in place. JD to check Visit Scotland site links. 
   4. Updates required on website; contact for the website needs updating. Dalwhinnie Book price to £10 with Treasurer email address for purchases.
   5. Badenoch Heritage site now live and will be promoted soon with newsletter out once any glitches/typos are managed. Dalwhinnie is linked on this site as a Badenoch portal.

• BADENOCH SMART VILLAGE –suggesting Badenoch considers marketing our area as the centre/heart of Scotland.  Links to website discussions, query a Dalwhinnie new strapline: Dalwhinnie @Heart of Scotland/Scotland’s Meeting Place? 
  1. Search engine optimisation, can Smart Village staff assist with this? JD to discuss with SF? 
  2. Can Smart Village staff assist locals and DCC members who may benefit from training/assistance and support promoting Dalwhinnie website/etc.
  3. Can Smart Village project assist the Village Hall act as a Digital Hub with broadband internet installed with a facility to support local access for residents without technology, 1 or 2 computers or tablets, Wi-Fi for those passing through with laptops etc? Could Village Hall have laser printer facilities for locals/visitors linked up, JD to contact Growbiz charity who provide support for rural communities regarding Smart Village assistance with this and make contact with Community Broadband Scotland and Scottish Rural Network. 
  4. DCC would look to support Village Hall (DCDT) on any initiatives etc it may wish to explore around same. 

• Dalwhinnie Crest Update.  JD has photo of simple school crest with printers’ details who may have a copy- can this be revised?  (Note there is an existing registered Dalwhinnie Tartan).  RM to investigate other Highland CC re crests/past issues and Lord Lyon’s office, noted can be complicated/expensive process to register but will discuss as historic link to the old school, community want to retain the links etc. RM report on any progress.  

• Dalwhinnie Village Highland Community Gathering – Saturday 29^th August (Bank holiday weekend) BBQ. 

1. 1. Competition likely to run most of the day. 
   2. Additional raffle prize offers to get in touch with JD. 
   3. CNCP merchandise as a possibility? JD to contact
   4. Bonny Barrels – Planter competition, JB & MC as judges, to begin around 10am that morning, AF to compile list of locations and entrants. 
   5. Approach Village Hall on possible joint initiative that day.
   6. Scotrail – MC suggested they are supportive and fond of Dalwhinnie – would they like a barrel to plant, or can they sponsor the barrels DCC have paid cost for, or supply a prize for the raffle? JD to contact.
   7. Caledonian Sleeper prize SC to contact them.

• Defibrillator

1. 5. No battery required, pads only. 
   6. Lucky2BHere charity (who work to promote defibrillators and training) has been in touch, JD and AF to be direct Dalwhinnie contact for device. £60 for 2 pads. 

• Memorial site.

1. 1. follow from Ben Alder estate staff support/tidy up, fence repairs, SC, AF, CF, JD and local DH have offered to paint fence, paint ordered by DCC, arriving Wednesday 29^th July, any other volunteers to contact SC.

• Tidy up – update

1. 1. Ben Alder Road Hillwalker carparking adjacent to the railway line, following positive approach Ardverikie Estate manager looking at supporting Dalwhinnie by extending into his land to create new formalised carparking adjacent to site to avoid congestion- subject to grants and/or estates working together.  
   2. Waste land on Ben Alder road, HC/DCC/JB discussions ongoing.
   3. Horse field letter sent to landowner, indicated as area of concern highlighted by numerous residents, but DCC ensured no immediate pressure implied.
   4. Former Grampian Hotel site following positive approach to owner the area has been booked for tidy up by owner, but due to pandemic has been delayed, but intention remains to complete this during 2020. 

• Roads maintenance 

1. 1. Grass Cutting Laggan Service – Jimmy Smith 01528 544727, £120 per month for Station Road 2 times per month.  
   2. Bear Scotland has cut grass along main road through Dalwhinnie but no reply/update from them on drainage cuts causing flooding (Scotrac, ARTCOM trade bridge, Hotel carpark).
   3. Traffic calming measures that were in discussion with previous CC, no update from last email sent, JD to resend email regarding all BEAR works on traffic calming, street lighting etc, copy in MC who will also chase this
   4. A9 layby south of Dalwhinnie on Northbound carriageway, rubbish spilling down to cycle path. JD/SC visit for clean-up add to Bear Scotland email request after checking site.
   5. A889 Waste in layby’s between Laggan/Dalwhinnie; talking/working with Laggan (Colin Morgan – Chair) on a scheme/idea to manage this, but no waste bins and previous contact with HC/Traffic Scotland by CM not previous offered solution. JD to contact C Mackenzie of HC/Traffic Scotland for follow up. 
   6. A889 Railway bridge at Dalwhinnie structural work 2020; provisional dates are in place for works to commence early Autumn, over 2 months, and a 2-week closure. Requests already made regarding A9 signage to highlight facilities/amenities open, fuel, restaurant, hotel and toilets in Dalwhinnie. Dates will be confirmed to community, social media and website as soon as they are confirmed as going ahead. 
   7. Winter lights in station road: in future DCC will disconnect power to lights for summer.  Old Christmas lights have been located, suggestions invited for use in future include split between Hotel and/or village hall for Christmas.  RM to check with DCDT re Christmas lights for Village Hall, SC to ask hotel.
   8. Although new white winter lights along main road through Dalwhinnie would be appreciated, appears not possible due to new street lights not having connections, but BEAR Scotland to be chased on installing these along with other items on traffic calming measures, draining etc see previous above.

• Dalwhinnie “A Hamlet on the Great North Road” hardback book; 

1. 1. Reprint unnecessary as currently 376 left to sell.
   2. Decision to retail at £10 per book (with local resident discount price £8) reflecting cost and quality of hardback publication, funds to go to specific book bank account already established, to allow funding a second edition on a smaller print run. History, printing/publishing etc. to be managed by previous team including R&MM who are keen to progress along with JA with RM (from DCC/DCDT). 
   3. Book to be made available at venues such as Hotel, Garage, Bunkhouse, B&B’s and possibly the Distillery, when open also the Village Hall. SC will contact JA for all books and will arrange management of sales/payments into Book account from DCC account. 
   4. Village Hall Christmas Cards are possible to support village hall funds and residents/visitors to purchase, with weblink etc on back. RM will update.   

7. Planning matters

1. 1. Proposed camper/motorhome use at FLS sites Wolf Tracks and Pattack Falls carparks, concerns for both Dalwhinnie and Laggan with this issue. 
   2. JB supported Dalwhinnie is being in a prime position for having a formal camper/motorhome stop with paid for basic facilities. This has previously been discussed by DCC members who support such a development to bring business/ activity to the village. MC suggested a possibility for funding from HC for initial portable campervan facilities of toilet/waste disposal. CF/AF/JD to look into this.

8. Any Other Competent Business  

1. 1. RSE site works; Scottish water can we approach for Trees to be planted during and as they finish around the front, along the road and around the site. Gavin Steel to be contacted at Scottish Water.
   2. There are a number of new planted failed/ dead trees around the village, some may have planted by company commissioned by former DCC. Can we count number and contact company commissioned for replanting of new native trees?

Discuss dates for future meetings:

2020 Meetings:

August: Monday 31^st (TBC)

September: Monday 28^th September

October: Monday 26^th October

November: Monday 30^th November

December: Month off all being well.

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Tuesday 30th June 2020 at 18.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council
Meeting Minutes from meeting on
30/06/2020 at 6pm conducted via Zoom Video Conference
Present
Jen Dickinson (Chair), Ainslie Fraser (Vice Chair), Simon Conroy (Treasurer), Connor Fraser (Secretary), JB, SH, MC, SF

Previous minutes? 

Old paperwork – Jen has been through this and is chasing any old business listed below.

Minutes approved from May meeting – Connor Fraser Proposed,  Simon Conroy seconded. Jen to email to HC.Friday 29th May at 6:00pm, venue TBC

Treasures report

Banking details – BOS account now in our names, signatories are – SAC, JAD, AF, CF, this will require 2 signatories for a cheque. Online registration completed, cheque book and online banking now in place. 

Statements April 2018-April 2020 to Highland Council with a covering letter, 4 office bearers to sign declaration stating finances as of April 2020. HC finance department will verify and approve the figure for the new DCC onwards.

£14,970.21 available in funds.

Previously “PAY” withdrawals, over counter as cash and as the financial records are missing we have no proof for expenditure in particular 2018 to 2020.  We are responsible from here on in so in future all payments must be bank transfer or cheque and fully traceable. No petty cash, or cash payments.

Matters arising – Covid 19

Covid 19 – Grant for Colin through VABS? Should we reapply –  Jen chat to Colin

Covid 19 – Security update – Aviemore police situation Si updated everyone and we are trying to tread carefully around the Moore family here in Dalwhinnie.

Matters Arising

Co-opting new council members – Sally Hart has given apologies, happy to assist practically but not part of council, Jen to put out a request for anyone interested in helping on the facebook page. 

Jen Dickinson proposed Sarah Fisher as a member, Ainslie Fraser seconded her. Welcome to Sarah as a DCC council member.

Website now live minutes are up, Sarah Fisher is speaking with Bill Carr to take on the responsibility for the website. Software costs for her Dcc will reimburse.

Few costs to take on include hosting, domain name etc, £50 one off payment per year for the software to build website. Email Sarah for bank details set up DD for yearly subscription.

Dalwhinnie voices;  http://www.dalwhinnievoices.org.uk/  hosting paid for by Ron and Maralyn Mercer – Sarah will look at site and links once community website is sorted. Jen is to introduce Douglas Deacon to work with her, maybe once a month. Ainslie to make contact with Douglas to arrange link facebook group posts to Sarah. Jen to introduce Sarah to Ron to get all details so DCC can set up Direct Debit for hosting/domain name for this website also.

Dalwhinnie crest; no previous crest that we know of other than school one… Jen has a contact number for Moira Webster, so will try to get school crest to then pass on to Sarah to complete any further design work required.

Highland community Gathering – August Bank holiday weekend (tie in with bonny barrel competition), Jen to pencil in with Colin, low key event for locals to get together after Covid, outdoor event? maybe plan in a plan B virtual gathering? Planning to start. Jen to reshare raffle prize list and everyone to get thinking caps on for donations of prizes. Sell tickets online virtually via facebook group to raise funds.

Defibrillator – JAD tried to contact Lucky2behere for info on payment, and has chased through Fiona Grant but heard nothing back yet.  Muriel suggested contacting Liz Henderson from National park regarding this. Muriel will support if required. Lucky2behere has a nurse that runs training for residents too also ask Liz about this. Jen to contact Liz regarding this.

Bonny Barrels – Planter competition, 19 barrels ordered/names on the list – to be distributed Wednesday 1^st July and planters judged August Bank holiday weekend. Who do we get to judge this, ideas to Ainslie please.

Community responsibility for keeping Dalwhinnie tidy.  

Si station road planters cost £7800 previously then up to around £10,000 in total by time they were sited, filled and planted.  Railway sleeper option that Simon and David Haggerty could make some, however need to see how volunteers get on with looking after the planters we already have before putting more out there. 

10 Railway planters (see attached drawing for locations), post on facebook group to ID people to take them on some have agreed but need more people. Jen to get contact details (email to have a group email update)

Sarah Fisher mentioned the Cycle path into Dalwhinnie – laybys south of Dalwhinnie junction no bins, lots of rubbish now spilling from layby to the cycle path.…. Rubbish bin in the laybys please, Highland Council’s Richard Porteous coming to area committee meeting so John Bruce to discuss.  Also likely to involve Bear, John Bruce and Muriel Cockburn to research and chase them on. Jen will also send email to Tommy Deans at BEAR to chase too.

Si & Jen will take drive to laybys and check bin status and maybe attempt clean up.

A889 Waste in layby’s between Laggan/Dalwhinnie – work with Laggan (Colin Morgan – Chair), on a scheme.  Jen to contact Colin to set date, race to go from towns and meet in the middle? Also as above and Contact Bear for bins in Layby’s again if required.

Areas for tidy up – John Bruce visited on Friday 12^th June – Ben Alder Road Hillwalker carpark, land owned by Ardverikie, Jen to contact them first.  

Waste land on Ben Alder road, Jen & Si are keen to look after this/rent the land, so have written to Liz Cowie as detailed by John Bruce to try to move this on after 3-4 years of trying to resolve it.  They intend some Tree planting – Plant a grove of trees (Trees for life), small personal allotment, green waste for responsible local residents, maybe a shed for DCC storage could go here.  If Jen and Si are unsuccessful, any other ideas/grants/offers – Possible Transfer of service land on Ben alder road to DCC to tidy it up with Trees for life/bushes/shrubs, responsibility for longer term maintenance with planning assistance?

Horse field update, Owner is happy for land to be tidied up, but will not talk to tenant. People who offered to tidy up cannot and should not attempt this without tenant consent/assistance. DCC to write polite letter to the tenant to tidy up with local help.

Grampian Hotel site – Owner assures us the land will be flattened during 2020 and she has plans for it. DCC will write formally for an update.

Land next to Monadhliath (Ben alder road), is in process of being tidied up.

Garage area and behind it is looking great, new planters out front, fencing going in for area behind/around it, Ainslie looking to future plans.

Ben Alder Estate staff clean up continues – Memorial site, fence repairs, volunteers to help paint, Si Conroy has offered to help. Si is to buy Cuprinol/hammerite for metal paintwork.

Playpark – area and possible grants Longer term – down the line, Jen, Si, Connor and Ainslie to research but will take time to work out what is possible, best educational options, H&S etc

Grass cutting Laggan service – Jimmy Smith started £120 per month, is there anyone in the village that can offer this service for payment – supporting local enterprise? Jimmy Smith happy to accept cheque payments from July onwards. 

Resident at the Tollhouse in Dalwhinnie cuts grass discussed as possible option, Si to approach if as a one off he can cut/tidy up mainroad grass area, unless we hear from BEAR they are coming.

Dalwhinnie DEVELOPMENT TRUST – Applications for Trustees?, Jen and Ainslie TO DO Village Hall ideas/update for working together, “Send out ideas list for brainstorming.” – Jen to try and contact the Chairman again.

BEAR cut main road grass areas – drainage flooded Alan Dawson’s place (Scotrac, ARTCOM trade bridge) – Jen has contacted BEAR on this and will update when she knows more.

Winter lights storage? Angus Munday has old lights and would like to move them on to us? Where?  Si has done online poll in the facebook group – lights to be removed during summers if possible, starting March 2021. Who can remove and put back up? – Si to investigate.

Old winter lights need to be stored somewhere new? Where to store, possible shed on Ben Alder Road waste land, if J&S get land to maintain.

SMART VILLAGES – Jen to introduce local businesses to link on email Connor and Ainslie, Sarah, Colin and Lee Cleghorn at the old school house bunkhouse too.

Planning matters

A889 Railway bridge at Dalwhinnie – structural work 2020… updates – Jen to update when she gets an update. John Bruce to talk with Richard again. 

Any other Business

Discuss dates for future meetings:

2020 Meetings:

July: Monday 27^th

August: Monday 31^st (TBC)

September: Monday 28^th September

October: Monday 26^th October

November: Monday 30^th November

Minutes of the meeting of Dalwhinnie Community Council held Tuesday 7th April 2020 at 10.00hrs (virtual meeting)

Dalwhinnie Community Council
Meeting Minutes from meeting on
07/04/2020 at 10am conducted via Zoom Video Conference
Present
Jen Dickinson (Chair), Ainslie Fraser (Vice Chair), Simon Conroy (Treasurer), Connor Fraser (Secretary),
In Attendance
Jim Mckerracher
Approval of Minutes
We have received old minutes from previous Community Council and need time to check these thoroughly.
Treasurers Report
We have received some banking details for Community Council account. Difficulties getting all details due to current circumstances. Si has contacted old accountant and Highland Council to help get access to account.
Matters Arising
Covid 19 –
– List of Residents and empty properties has been compiled as far as possible. Available on Google drive.
– Leaflet distributed to all in the community with dedicated Community support phone number and details on how to order groceries to the hotel. Thanks to Colin Blair for organising grocery deliveries.
– Garage operating on limited hours due to Covid 19. Ainslie will continue organising extra milk being delivered for residents.
– Good amount of volunteers have come forward for grocery deliveries/ pharmacy runs and are being coordinated by Si. List available on Google drive.
– Printing of Leaflets being done by Jen and printing supplies are being bought as required.
– Stock of Hand sanitizer/gloves/masks located at the garage available to volunteers.
Other Matters –
– New members co-opted: Jim Mckerracher and Sally Hart co-opted onto the Community Council. Both were proposed to join by Si Conroy and both seconded by Ainslie Fraser.
– Ewan Carr and Bill Carr step down from their positions on Dalwhinnie Community Council. Thank you to them for their contribution and continued support from everyone on the Community Council.
– Dalwhinnie website discussed. Not yet live but very good website with useful information. Thanks to Bill Carr for the work he has done on this. We will look for further community feedback.
– Dalwhinnie Voices website also discussed. Community Council willing to take on costs for hosting site and would look to link with the new website.
– Possibility of working with Laggan Community Council on a scheme to reduce waste in laybys on A889 between Dalwhinnie and Laggan – Laggan Community council has been in touch and Jen will Liaise with them on this.
– Litter, fly tipping and dog fouling – discussed organising a community clean up once circumstances allow. Look for ways to encourage residents to help with litter picking etc.
– Grass cutting and planters – Jen has spoken to Jimmy Smith, who previously cut the grass, to clarify costs and areas to be cut. Possibly use Jimmy to maintain planters while Covid-19 is ongoing and look for permanent solution at later date.
– War memorial keys and management – Jen will find out where keys are and discuss management with village hall.
– Christmas lights – Si will look into who manages these and best way to proceed.
– Areas for tidy up – Land next to station is being worked on by Roddie Munro. Jen and Si to chase council about tidying up land on Ben Alder Road. Look for any other areas that need tidied.
– Tree Planting – Jen and Si suggested we could plant a grove of trees (Trees For Life) and Si will look into grants for this.
Planning Matters
– Newtonmore Pharmacy – Jen has been sent an email with details and all in favour.
– A889 railway bridge at Dalwhinnie – Jen to get contact details and look into.
– the Quarry – Ainslie to research what the plans are for the quarry.
– EE tower – Need to find out the history and current situation of the tower.
Any Other Competent Business
– Shortbread – Ainslie kindly donated boxes of shortbread for residents at Easter. To be distributed by volunteers.
– Whiskey miniatures from distillery from residents – Jen to investigate with Diageo.
– Village hall meeting – Get community together after Covid-19.
– Ben Alder, Drumochter/Ralia, and Ardverikie, Phoines estates support – email to introduce community council and support network in Dalwhinnie. Si to manage.
Date of future meeting

Friday 29th May at 6:00pm, venue TBC

Minutes submitted by:
Connor Fraser
Approved by:
Name