2025 Agendas & Minutes

Alexandria Community Council Meeting

Wednesday 29th January 2025, Alexandria Community Centre

Agenda:

1. Welcome
2. Apologies
3. Previous minutes
4. Confirmation of Community Councillors
5. Correspondence
6. Finance
7. Meeting and Venue Calendar 2025
8. Alexandria Traders Association
9. Vale of Leven Trust
10. Road Works/Traffic Management
11. Parking
12. Alleged Fly Tipping at Large Car Park (Across From Railway Station)
13. Alexandria Post Office
14. Notice Boards
15. LIDL
16. Alexandria Community Plan
17. Forward Planning – including linking up with schools
18. Social Media/Website
19. AOCB

Date of next meeting – Wednesday 26 February 2025 6.30pm, CATRA Hall, Alexandria.

Present:

Ian Miller (chair), Harry McCormack (minutes), Angela Caldwell, Tilda McCrimmon, Brian Kemsley, Jan Taylor, Colin Smith (WDC Communities Team), Shirley McAlpine (Vale of Leven Trust), Ayesha Mohammed (Vale of Leven Trust)

Apologies: 

Barbara Barnes, Sian Wilkie

Previous Minutes 11.12.24:

• Proposed by Angela Caldwell. Seconded by Ian Miller.

Office bearer confirmation:

• Tilda McCrimmon (Vice Chairperson) - Proposed by Harry McCormack. Seconded by Ian Miller.

Correspondence:

• Bin Collection – Christmas/New Year: Community Council disappointed about the cancellation of bin collections in some areas of Alexandria during the Festive Period (which affected Wednesdays and Thursdays). However, we do appreciate and thank the hard work by WDC Waste Services for collecting most (if not all items) when service resumed on 8th January 2025.
• Alexandria Post Office: Correspondence on our concerns received and replied by Jackie Baillie MSP. Subsequent update is that the post office has now re-opened following 12-weeks closure and now operated by the same people who have the Keystore Newsagents.
• WDC Roadworks/Traffic Management/Parking: Claire Guthrie, PA to Gail Macfarlane, WDC Chief Officer for Roads and Neighbourhood Services acknowledged our invitation as speaker. However, no further response or confirmation has been given. Harry to email.
• Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: Letter confirming appeal from Stantec UK on behalf of Flamingo Land to Scottish Ministers in relation to their proposal for the land at Pier Road, Ben Lomond Way and Old Luss Road in Balloch.
• Central Alexandria TRA: Following Storm Eowyn, proposal for temporary reinstatement of WDC garden waste collection to help with the clear-up of damaged gardens especially people who have no cars. Email sent to all Leven Ward WDC Councillors. Tullichewan TRA agreed with proposal and forwarded to all Lomond Ward Councillors. Response from Ian Bain, WDC Greenspace has confirmed that there is no capacity to do this. Harry to send letter of support from Community Council to all WDC Councillors.
• Scottish Fire and Rescue Service: Online consultation event taking place on Thursday 20th February 2pm to 3.30pm.
• WDC Planning and Development: Vale of Leven Hospital. Removal of existing ventilation services and replace and various alternations to provide fracture clinic.
• WDC Local Development Plan: Information about new information website.

Meeting schedule and venue

• New dates confirmed up until the summer break. 26th February 2025, 23rd April 2025 and 4th June 2025.
• New venue agreed for future meetings – CATRA Hall, Alexander Street. This change is due to the rising costs of booking Alexandria Community Centre and no longer wishing to use the former café area due to its location in the centre.

Finance

• Current bank balance is £2,222.12p (£222,12p actual balance) as of Wednesday 29th January 2025.
• Expenditure includes £30 to Tullichewan TRA and £36.50p to WD Leisure. All details on file.
• £2,000 is for Notice Board project.
• Application for a Community Council grant for running costs to be completed as soon as possible.
• Tilda and Harry to be added as signatories to the bank account as soon as possible.

Alexandria traders association

• 2024 was a very successful year including the return of the Christmas Light Switch-on at the Alexandria Market on 14th December 2024.
• Business Investment District (BID) application has been successful and plans are underway with traders to move plans forward.
• Levy payment for new activities begins in April 2025.
• Partnership working with WDC Regeneration.
• Ian, on behalf of the Community Council, expressed thanks for the partnership working of Traders Association and Vale of Leven Trust, including the Christmas Market.
• Shirley, on behalf of both, expresses thanks to the Community Council for support.
• A new steering group has been set up planning ahead in 2025, including the Alexandria Market.

Vale of Leven trust

• Shirley introduced colleague Ayesha Mohammed to the meeting.
• Successful funding for new community project. “The Journey” will involve local research, creative writing, drama, photography and volunteering.

Road works/traffic management in Alexandria

• Discussed under correspondence.

Parking

• Discussed under correspondence.

Fly-tipping

• Following complaints, most of the fly-tipping has been cleared up at the big park area across from Alexandria Railway Station.
• Community Councils are looking at further options to combat what is a historic pattern of dumping in this location, as well as under the railway bridge where Bridge Street used to be located.

Alexandria post office

• Discussed under correspondence.

Alexandria notice boards

• Work about to restart with the Town Centre location a priority.

Lidl Alexandria

• Scheduled to open on Saturday 1st February 2025.

Alexandria community plan

• Adapted from Castlehill Community Plan.
• Colin provided a blank template to begin discussions.
• Key areas specified on the template to help discussion and planning include “spaces and places,” “community life/engagement,” “health and wellbeing” and “partners.”
• Community Council is interested in collecting data from previous surveys, questionnaires, etc., to capture community views past, present and future.
• Areas touched upon in discussion include Mitchell Way, Bonhill Bridge, St Andrews Church and Vale of Leven F.C community space.
• Colin to propose dates for a special meeting to focus on the plan for future discussion.

Forward planning

• Potential working partnership with Vale of Leven Academy put on hold.

Social media/website

• Alexandria Community Council’s public page on Facebook currently has 347 likes and 569 followers.
• Alexandria CC Notice Board Facebook group has 5,492 members. Alan Hubner (aehweb) is currently updating the Alexandria Town website with new information including new businesses and community groups.

AOCB

• Bank of Scotland: Announcement in the media that Alexandria branch will be one of the upcoming closures within the next year. Community Council to draft a statement expressing disappointment and seek the full facts.

Next meeting

Wednesday 26 February 2025, 6.30pm at CATRA Hall, Alexandria.

Alexandria Community Council Meeting

Wednesday 26 February 2025, Alexandria Community Centre

Agenda

1. Welcome
2. Apologies
3. Previous Minutes
4. Correspondence
5. Finance
6. Alexandria Community Plan / Plan on a Page
7. Alexandria Traders Association
8. Vale of Leven Trust
9. Bank of Scotland – Alexandria Branch Closure
10. First Bus – Changes to Service 1 and 1A
11. Road Works / Traffic Management
12. Parking
13. Alleged Fly-Tipping at Large Car Park (Across from Railway Station)
14. Alexandria Post Office
15. Notice Boards
16. LIDL
17. Forward Planning – Including Linking Up with Schools
18. WD Community Council Forum
19. Social Media / Website
20. AOCB

Next Meeting: Wednesday 23 April 2025, 6.30pm at CATRA Hall, Alexandria

Present

Ian Miller (Chair), Harry McCormack (Minutes), Angela Caldwell, Brian Kemsley, Jan Taylor, Barbara Barnes, Shirley McAlpine (Vale of Leven Trust), Sian Wilkie (Alexandria Traders Association)

Apologies

Tilda McCrimmon, Colin Smith

Previous Minutes (29.1.25)

• Proposed by Angela Caldwell
• Seconded by Brian Kemsley

Correspondence

• Roadworks / Traffic Management / Parking: Liam Greene (WDC Roads) provided updates:
  • WDC coordinates roadworks, but utility companies are regulated by the Scottish Roadworks Commissioner under a national code.
  • New internal procedures and committee report shared for consistency in enforcement, especially for emergency/traffic-sensitive works.
  • Parking enforcement now transferred to WDC; implementation due before summer with wardens and public communications planned.
• First Bus Glasgow: From 2 March 2025, services 1 and 1A will no longer serve Alexandria. Replaced by services 204 and 205 (to Dumbarton ASDA). Community disappointment expressed; First Bus cite punctuality and improved local links. Local anger noted in press/social media.
• Better Buses for Strathclyde: Campaign for public ownership of buses. Public meeting on Wednesday 23 April in Clydebank Town Hall. Harry to make contact regarding local issues.
• Bank of Scotland Closure: Announced for March 2026. ACC expressed concern over digital-only banking and impact on vulnerable groups. Alexandria is losing its last physical bank. ACC, MSP Jackie Baillie and Traders Association met BOS reps.
• Banking Hub: Post Office-run service may come to Alexandria. Traders Association applying for postmaster role. Would need separate premises.
• Balloch & Haldane CC: Invited ACC to participate in their Local Place Plan with Nick Wright Consulting. ACC agreed to follow up for more info.
• Bank Street Sheltered Housing: Dawn Conner (WDC Housing) confirmed JR as contractor. ACC agreed to be added to contacts list.
• Proposed Public Procession: Notification received for Orange Order march on 2nd July at 7pm, from Old Luss Road to St Mungo’s Church via Christie Park.
• WDC Budget 2025/26: Potential cuts to Community Council funding. ACC concerned about wider cuts to elderly, education, environment. Harry to draft letter to councillors.
• WDC Planning: Application to convert flats at 134 Main Street into two homes with dormers.
• LIDL Alexandria: Store opening expected 28th March.

Finance

• Community Grant of £820.41 received.
• Bank balance as of 29 February 2025: £2,976.05 (£976.05 available balance).
• Expenditure: £30 to Tullichewan TRA and £36.50 to WD Leisure.
• £2,000 allocated for Notice Board project.
• Tilda and Harry to be added as bank signatories.

Alexandria Community Plan / Plan on a Page

Discussions with WDC Communities and Regeneration have started. Meetings held on 11th and 25th February (walkabout).

Alexandria Traders Association & Vale of Leven Trust

• BID board formation underway; manager recruitment ongoing.
• Levy for BID activities starts April 2025.
• Joint working with WDC Regeneration Team.
• Next local market due in April.
• Christmas Light Switch-On proposed for Saturday 29th November.
• Shirley introduced Ayesha Mohammed to ACC.
• Funding secured for income-based bike repair service (Active Hub, Mitchell Way).

Fly-Tipping

Large car park and Bridge Street tunnel now cleared.

Alexandria Notice Boards

No update.

Forward Planning

No update.

West Dunbartonshire Community Council Forum

• Next meeting: Wednesday 5 March.
• Discussion ongoing with Peter Hessett (WDC Chief Executive) re Communities Team changes.

Social Media / Website

• Facebook page: 368 likes, 598 followers.
• Notice Board Facebook group: 5,923 members.

AOCB

None.

Meeting Close

The meeting was closed with no other business.

Next Meeting

Wednesday 23 April 2025, 6.30pm at CATRA Hall, Alexandria

Alexandria Community Council Meeting

Wednesday 23 April 2025, Alexandria Community Centre

Present:

Ian Miller (chair), Harry McCormack (minutes), Angela Caldwell, Tilda McCrimmon, Shirley McAlpine (Vale of Leven Trust), Ayesha Mohammed (Vale of Leven Trust), Sarah Lintott (Dunbartonshire Scouts)

Apologies:

Jan Taylor, Colin Smith, Barbara Barnes, Sian Wilkie, Brian Kemsley

Previous minutes 26.2.25:

• Proposed by Angela Caldwell. Seconded by Ian Miller.

Correspondence:

• WDC Budget 2025/26: Correspondence received from Laurence Slavin, WDC Chief Officer – Resources on elected members decision to maintain funding community councils for this year. This follows budget savings discussion WDC meeting on Wednesday 5th March.
• WDC Budgets 2025/26: Correspondence also received by Gail Macfarlane, WDC Chief Officer and Laurence Slevin, WDC Chief Officer – confirming elected members decision at WDC meeting on 5th March to maintain Elderly Welfare Grant (£15 per year to residents over the age of 67). However, the Care of Garden scheme for elderly and disabled residents has been withdrawn from 1st April due to the £275 per household cost (approximately £143k a year). Residents who used this service will need to look elsewhere. This along with other cuts to services in the local authority has been formally announced to “help close a budget gap of £7.7m (plus at least a further £5.6m budget gap for West Dunbartonshire Health & Social Care Partnership). Alexandria CC to draft a wide letter to highlight our disappointment in the decision and impact it will have on the local community – particularly the vulnerable.
• Better Buses for Strathclyde: Harry sent an email to begin a conversation on our issues with First Bus curtailing recent services in the area. Paul Shaw of Get Glasgow Moving, the organisation behind the campaign is happy for communication to take place. As mentioned last meeting, a public meeting in Clydebank for West Dunbartonshire clashed with tonight’s meeting therefore one opportunity missed. Harry to contact them again to begin a conversation moving forward.
• Bank Hub: Tilda shared a photograph of this service provided in Girvan to give an idea on how one in Alexandia may operate.
• Balloch & Haldane CC: Place Planning Activity – local community councils session to be arranged and awaiting further contact.
• WDC Planning & Development: 1 Hillview Place, Main Street. Dempsey’s. Application in principle for flats and associated car parking and the demolition of existing buildings.
• WDC Planning & Development: Flat 4, 122 Leven Street, McAulay Letting. Change of use from dwelling house (flat) to serviced accommodation.
• WDC Planning & Development: Argyll Park, Argyle Street. West Dunbartonshire Council. Construction of a new full size 3G synthetic pitch including drainage, floodlighting and fencing.
• WDC Planning & Development: Mixed Use Development Site, Mitchell Way. LIDL. Amendment to warrant -alterations to below ground drainage, additional internal and external alterations including additional EV chargers and future provision.
• National Planning Improvement Framework: WDC calling for Community Council involvement in this partnership working with other organisations. Tilda to check if this is more suited to WD Community Council Forum platform.
• Uplifting Mitchell Way: WDC Regeneration working with Page/Park Architects to deliver new public realm improvements on Mitchell Way. Public consultation including workshops ended on 18th April.
• West Dunbartonshire Tenants & Residents Organisation (WDTRO): Alexandria CC supports WDTRO’s letter criticising the harsh wording of WDC’s “Missed Council Tax Payment” leaflet.
• BT/WDC Consultation: Payphone on Colquhoun Drive, Rosshead one of 13 being removed in West Dunbartonshire. Consultation is in regard to the community keeping the payphones if the community states there is still a need (there has been no visible campaign for this) or “adopt” a phone box for £1 for another use. Harry to contact WDC for information.

Finance:

• Current bank balance is £2,887.55p (£887.55p actual balance) as of Wednesday 23 April 2025.
• Expenditure includes £30 to Tullichewan TRA and £20 to CATRA. Bank of Scotland have introduced £4.25 monthly service charge from 18th March. All details on file.
• £2,000 is for Notice Board project.
• Tilda and Harry to be added as signatories to the bank account as soon as possible.

Alexandria Traders Association & Vale of Leven Trust:

• Business Investment District (BID) board now appointed with Traders Association operating as its steering group. Sian Wilkie elected chairperson of the board with Councillor Jim Bollan and Michelle Lynn, WDC Asset Management also members of the board.
• Alexandria Traders meetings now operate as the BID board’s steering group.
• Calum McConnachie, WDC Regeneration attended the steering group with one of the architects on the planning team to give an update and ask for feedback on the “Uplifting Mitchell Way” project. They have been consulting residents of Alexandria and local organisations on the use of the allocated budget of £800k. The proposal from the Traders at the meeting is that some of the allocation be ringfenced for Mitchell Way to upgrade the pavements and lighting on the Main Street as well. The BID Board agreed with this and agreed further consultation will be carried over the next few weeks with local traders to get their views. Alexandria CC in support of this.
• Vale of Leven Trust in partnership working with BID projects with Alexandria Traders Association.
• Next market scheduled for 3 May.
• Invitations to Balloch Community Fire Station and local Community Police for upcoming markets for information stalls/talks.

Alexandria community plan/plan on a page:

• Harry to email Colin on the development of the page plan for Alexandria.

Alexandria notice boards:

• No update.

West Dunbartonshire Community Council Forum:

• CC Forum drafting a letter to WDC on the disappointment of the lack of opportunity to be involved in decision making. This is despite making efforts to be involved in community surveys and workshops.

LIDL:

• Following delays, recent information is that the new shop will be open in late May.

Social media/website:

• Alexandria Community Council’s public page on Facebook currently with 392 likes and 629 followers.
• Alexandria CC Notice Board Facebook group membership of 6,539 members.
• Harry to contact Alan Hubner for an update on the Town website.

AOCB:

• Ian welcomed Sarah Lintott, District Lead Volunteer for Dunbartonshire Scouts who attended our meeting tonight to network with local people and organisations. Sarah Group Lead Volunteer for both 1st Loch Lomond and 1st Renton which serve the Vale of Leven Communities. Alexandria CC to put this as an agenda item going forward.

(With no other business, the meeting was closed)

Sarah.lintott@dunbartonshirescouts.org.uk 
Next meeting: Wednesday 4 June 2025, 6.30pm at CATRA Hall, Alexandria.

Alexandria Community Council Meeting

Wednesday 4 June 2025, CATRA Hall, Alexandria

Present

Ian Miller (chair), Harry McCormack (minutes), Angela Caldwell, Tilda McCrimmon, Jan Taylor, Ingram Wilson, Colin Smith (WDC Communities Team), Shirley McAlpine (Vale of Leven Trust)

Apologies

Barbara Barnes, Sian Wilkie, Brian Kemsley

Previous Minutes

Proposed by Tilda McCrimmon Seconded by Angela Caldwell.

Correspondence

• WDC Budget 2025/26: Letter to Councillor Martin Rooney, WDC Leader of the Council on our concerns about budget cuts acknowledged. Councillor Rooney response states that WDC is not properly funded by the Scottish Government and does not receive adequate funding to maintain services due to rising costs each year. He also agrees that it is not sustainable but is not expecting change “under the current Scottish Government.”
• Clydebank Trades Union Council: The TUC hosted a “Community Fightback” public meeting on 26th May in the Concord Centre, Dumbarton. This was in response to recent WDC Budget as well as other concerns in the community.
• WDC/BT Consultation on Payphone Removal: Consultation on the removal of payphone removal from Colquhoun Drive, Rosshead. If it is decided to remove the phone facility, being a modern kiosk, there was an opportunity for a community organisation to get funding to install a heart defibrillator in this location. After much discussion on how would be operated and managed, as well as being aware of other defibrillator nearby, Alexandria CC will not pursue this further.
• Scottish Government: Planning Permission Appeal – Land at Pier Road, Ben Lomond Way and Old Luss Road known as West Riverside and Woodbank House. Report has decided that planning permission will be granted provided an agreement under Section 75 of the Town and Planning Act (Scotland) 1997 is reached between the planning authority and the appellant. The planning permission will not be issued until that agreement has been reached and agreed.
• Balloch Castle Country Park Regeneration Group: Meeting scheduled for Thursday 5th June 7pm at Balloch House Hotel.
• Bus Service 340: Public bus service between Vale of Leven Hospital and Royal Alexandria Hospital (RAH), Paisley is being withdrawn on 28th June. NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde are introducing an in-house transport service from 29th June which is for patients and staff only. Alexandria CC are disappointed with this decision as visitors will no longer be able to access this service. Due to its location, going to the RAH without a car from Alexandria will require at least 2 buses and longer journey times. We feel that this an unnecessary burden. Harry to contact Jim Moohan, Vale of Leven Hospital Watch to give our support and open potential discussion.
• WDC Communities Team: Email confirming that the Communities Team is being disbanded with a change in department structure. Community Councils will still continue to receive support as part of this change. More details will be made available as things progress.
• Planning & Development: Proposed house in land adjacent to 93 Wilson Street.
• Planning & Development: Construction of a 4-storey residential block containing 22 bedroom flats, 1 common area, 1 staff area and associated landscaping. Bank Street – old doctor surgery site.
• Planning & Development: Change of use & alterations to vacant church & church hall to form 4 no. dwelling houses at the former St Mungo’s Church.
• Bonhill & Dalmonach CC: Jack Fordy, Secretary/Treasurer is standing down and the CC is finding it difficult to fill in office positions. One consideration was a proposed amalgamation with Alexandria. Following in-depth discussion, it was felt that was not the best way forward for a number of reasons. This includes that Bonhill & Dalmonach areas have their own histories and issues which is difficult to handle centrally and the workload that would be inherited by expanding our boundaries. Harry to contact Jack to inform of this decision.

Finance

• Current bank balance is £2,803.30p (£803.30p actual balance) as of Wednesday 4th June 2025.
• Expenditure includes £60 to Tullichewan TRA, £20 to CATRA and Bank of £4.25 monthly service charge. All details on file.
• Angela, Tilda and Harry to arrange meeting to add signatories to the bank account.
• £2,000 is for Notice Board project.

Meeting Schedule

• Meetings agreed for 20th August, 1st October and 19th November (AGM).
• Day, time and venue remain unchanged.

Alexandria Traders Association & Vale of Leven Trust

• Following the process of Alexandria becoming a Business Improvement District (BID), the association has been renamed Alexandria BID Company.
• BID Board Meetings ongoing.
• BID Steering Groups ongoing.
• Vale of Leven Trust is funded as a BID Co-ordinator.
• There is also a BID monitoring group which includes officers of West Dunbartonshire Council.
• The BID Zone area criteria is Main Street, Bank Street and Mitchell Way.
• Walkabout has taken place recently to identify the needs of the area and what can be improved.
• Following discussions, there has been an agreement from WDC that some of the Mitchell Way Uplift Project fund will be allocated to include Main Street.
• Market scheduled for 7th June has been cancelled due to poor weather forecasted for the weekend.
• Work in progress for a Summer Extravaganza for July which includes events for children and families.
• New Bicycle Repair service has been successful so far.

Alexandria Community plan/plan on a page

Colin to arrange a special meeting to discuss this template as soon as possible. This includes “spaces and places,” “community life and engagement” and “health and wellbeing.”

Alexandria Notice Boards

John Woodcock planning on finishing notice board within a month.

Bus Service 1/1A

Following discussions, a Facebook poll asking, “Do you want the former direct route from Balloch to Glasgow (via Alexandria) restored?” was posted on the Alexandria CC Notice Board. Over 200 people responded with a 96% yes vote. Harry to take this findings and comments and draft a letter to First Glasgow to request restoration of the bus route.

Alexandria Banking Hub

• Information meeting took place on 22nd May in Alexandria Library.
• The hub will be open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
• Although certain banks are designated for each day, this will not affect other bank customers on most cases.
• A further update will be given as things progress.

West Dunbartonshire Community Council Forum

• CC Forum AGM clashed with our own CC meeting tonight.
• CC Forum is disappointed with the current working relationship with WDC Chief Officer and the lack of opportunity to be involved in decision making. This is despite making efforts to be involved in community surveys and workshops.
• Next meeting Wednesday 3rd September.

LIDL

Following delays, recent information is that the new shop will be open on Thursday 5th June. Concerns remain on the road lay-out at entrance/exit.

Social Media/Website

• Alexandria Community Council’s public page on Facebook currently with 417 likes and 665 followers.
• Alexandria CC Notice Board Facebook group membership of 7,029 members.

AOCB

None

With no other business the meeting was closed.

DONM

Wednesday 20th August 2025, 6.30pm at CATRA Hall, Alexandria.

Alexandria Community Council Meeting

Wednesday 20 August 2025, CATRA Hall, Alexandria

Present

Ian Miller (chair), Harry McCormack (minutes), Tilda McCrimmon, Barbara Barnes, Brian Kemsley

Apologies

Jan Taylor, Angela Caldwell, Colin Smith

Previous Minutes

Proposed by Ian Miller. Seconded by Tilda McCrimmon.

Correspondence

• Smollett Fountain: Confirmation from Vincent McIntyre, WDC Regeneration that the new lighting works have been completed for a year closing down the snagging period to complete the contract (as of June). WDC Street Lighting will attend any repairs reported. Awareness Days light change schedules – which run in tandem with 16 Church Street Offices in Dumbarton – was made available for reference.
• Planning & Development: Additional Modular Office accommodation located within the yard of existing facility – Loch Lomond Distillery.
• Planning & Development: Construction of a new synthetic MUGA – Christie Park Primary School.
• Planning & Development:  Advertisement of the following types – fascia sign, projecting sign full retail fit out of a vacant unit into a retail banking hub. Works include: (External) installation of new brand signage, installation of new ATM and making good external fabric. (Internal) minor partition alterations to form new secure office, installation of furniture, internal services, redecoration and floor finishes where required – 7 Mitchell Way (Cash Access UK).
• Planning & Development: Removal of existing sliding entrance door to shopfront and installation of new double swing entrance doors together with new exterior condensers in the location of existing units. Installation of replacement illuminated fascia sign and new illuminated projecting sign together with window signage and graphics. Interior fit-out of ground floor retail unit, fitout elements to be removed, partitions to be erected, existing plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems to be modified – Greggs PLC.
• Planning & Development: Removal of external signage and branding, make good redundant fixing points and application of window vinyl – Lloyds Banking Group (Bank of Scotland).
• Independent Review of Boundaries Approval Process: Consultation on the review to determine electoral boundaries in Scotland. Ended on 7th August.
• Ian Miller: Alexandria CC congratulated our chairperson for Civic Reception marking 50 years of his work with Church of Scotland and local community. Event was hosted by West Dunbartonshire Council – Provost Karen Murray Conaghan. Harry and Barbara attending on behalf of Alexandria CC.
• Cornerstone UK (Mobile Infrastructure Services): Proposed base station upgrade at Bowie Road, Lomond Industrial Estate.
• Go Radio: Louise Hannah contacted Alexandria CC for views on WDC’s proposed draft visitor levy. Harry to contact to say that we have no position on this at the moment.
• Balloch Castle Country Regeneration Group: Annual General Meeting on Thursday 4th September at Balloch House Hotel. No representative able to attend and will provide apologies.
• Better Buses Strathclyde: Steering Group (hybrid) taking place in Unite the Union offices in Glasgow – Thursday 28th August 6.30pm. Zoom option will be available, and Harry will attend via this.
• Alexandria Post Office: Official confirmation from Brian Turnbull, Area Space Manager that this is now closed as of Friday 1st August. Alternative post offices in Tullichewan, Balloch and Bonhill in the meantime.
• Balloch & Haldane CC: Update on Local Place Plan with funding confirmed by Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Nick Wright Planning leading on this work and will be in contact with local organisations and businesses in the meantime. Harry to contact.
• First Bus: Correspondence from Alexandria CC to ask for restoration of the previous Balloch to Glasgow route for Service 1/1A was sent this included the results of our Facebook poll where 96% out of 200 respondents at the time wanted this restoration. Milo, responding on behalf of First Bus said that the changes have been a positive one with significant uptake on the new “additional” 204 and 205 services (also mentioning 206’s route extension to Helensburgh) and 9% more reliability on 1/1A between Dumbarton and Glasgow. Alexandria CC feel the point has been missed. 204 and 205 are not additional services, they are replacement for 1/1A route to Alexandria and beyond. 204 and 205 are operated every 40 minutes as is 206’s route to/from Helensburgh. Harry to respond and look for a compromising resolution.

Finance

• Current bank balance is £714.80p as of Wednesday 20th August 2025.
• Expenditure includes £60 to Tullichewan TRA, £20 to CATRA and Bank of £4.25 monthly service charge. All details on file.
• Angela, Tilda and Harry to arrange meeting to add signatories to the bank account.
• £4,500 West Dunbartonshire Council grant for Notice Board now spent.

Alexandria Bid

No update.

Vale of Leven Trust

• Annual General Meeting took place on Sunday 17th August.
• Tilda shared that Alexandria CC’s recognised VOLT’s great work in the community alongside their openness and transparency to make the local area thrive.

Alexandria Community plan/plan on a page

Colin provided an email update that he has been in discussions with Matthew Spurway, WDC Place-making Coordinator on the ways forward. Draft plan emailed to Matthew for comments and verification with changes if recommended.

WDC Greenspace - grass cutting in public spaces

• There has a lot of anger and frustration in the community with regards to grass cutting due to budget savings in recent years.
• Councillor David McBride, Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development (IRED) proposed through a motion via IRED committee where a proposed budget will potentially bring the Greenspace service back to 2024/25 level for the end of 2025/26 and all of 2026/27. This includes General Fund (Council Tax) and Housing Revenue Account (Tenant Rent) monies. This is to be taken to the Housing and Communities Committee (HACC) today before the full WDC meeting at the end of the month.
• An objection from the West Dunbartonshire Tenants & Residents Organisation (WDTRO) was raised at the Pre-HACC Forum highlighting that the total £290,000 Housing Revenue Account costs will effect future rent rises and unconvinced by the value of money on the motion overall. Tenants effectively paying for the same service twice. Alexandria CC agree with WDTRO.

Mitchell Way Project

No update.

Alexandria Notice Boards

Work progressing well and when completed one will be located in the greenspace on Bank Street next to Vale of Leven Credit Union at least on a temporary basis.

Bus Service 340

Following campaigning from Vale of Leven Hospital Watch and support from Jackie Baillie MSP, the new 340 in-house service by NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde will now allow visitors to travel on this service as well as patients and staff. However, the changed route of direct from Vale of Leven Hospital and Royal Alexandra Hospital, Paisley will remain in effect with no stoppages. Well done to Jim Moohan and the team at Hospital Watch and special thanks to Jackie Baillie.

Scotrail

Local community feeling angry and frustrated at recent rail services on the Balloch line via Alexandria – the reliability of the service being brought into question. Regular route goes into central Glasgow and with the bus services currently curtailed to Dumbarton, this has become a major issue which needs to be resolved. Harry to draft a letter.

West Dunbartonshire Community Council Forum

Workshop regarding the future of WDC Community Councils takes place on Wednesday 3rd September 7pm to 9pm at Dalmonach Community Centre, Bonhill.

Social Media/Website

• Alexandria Community Council’s public page on Facebook currently with 453 likes and 715 followers.
• Alexandria CC Notice Board Facebook group membership of 7,718 members.

AOCB

• Rail Line Closure (Milton): Harry to send correspondence about preparations for this as part of Bowling Exxon Site and road expansion.
• WDC Budget 2025/26 Conversations: Barbara attended the focus group meeting in Vale Health Centre on Tuesday 19th August.

With no other business the meeting was closed.

DONM

Wednesday 1st October 2025, 6.30pm at CATRA Hall, Alexandria.

Alexandria Community Council Meeting

Wednesday 1 October 2025, CATRA Hall, Alexandria

Present

Ian Miller (chair), Harry McCormack (minutes), Tilda McCrimmon, Barbara Barnes, Brian Kemsley, Angela Caldwell

Apologies

Shirley McAlpine, Colin Smith

Previous Minutes

Proposed by Tilda McCrimmon. Seconded by Brian Kemsley.

Correspondence

• First Bus: Correspondence regarding Services 1/1A, 204/205 ongoing.
• Scotrail: Correspondence regarding reliability and safety of services on the Balloch Line including anti-social behaviour. Scotrail responded and acknowledged concerns which was shared publicly online. Comments and messages from residents also discussed. Alexandria CC will continue to monitor situation and have added Network Rail to this when discussing infrastructure issues in future.
• WDC Greenspace Grass Cutting: Following objection from West Dunbartonshire Tenants & Residents Organisation (WDTRO) on the motion discussed at last meeting in relation to Housing Revenue Account providing half of cost, an amended motion proposed by Councillor Jonathan McColl was agreed by Full Council meeting – "Council notes the decisions regarding greenspace services taken at recent IRED and Housing Committees and ratifies all matters requiring Council consent. A report should be brought at the earliest opportunity, but no later than the 2026/27 budget meeting, to allow elected members to make an informed decision on which budgets should be responsible for funding what work. Officers should also use this time to consult with WDTRO. Until Council has considered that report, Council agrees to fund all costs from the general services account as a temporary measure."
• Balloch & Haldane Community Plan: Ian and Tilda were present at one of the planned discussion meetings. Currently at an early stage looking for ideas on what to include in the plan. Ian and Tilda contributed by providing information on the Alexandria Community Plan’s process.
• WD Equalities Forum: Papers provided for meeting that took place on 3rd September. Next meeting takes place on Wednesday 5th December 2025.
• Rail Line Closure (Milton): Gail Macfarlane, Chief Officer of WDC Roads and Neighbourhood has updated that rail closure for the Exxon Project works will take place between 24th December 2025 and 2nd January 2026. Information will be provided 12 weeks in advance.
• WDC Building Insurance Policy For Sold Properties: Following enquiries from residents particularly on rising costs, it was agreed to contact West Dunbartonshire Council for information. Harry to contact Alan Young, WDC Housing Asset and Investment Manager as a starting point.
• Banking Hub: Natalia Pocknell of Cash Access UK proposing a potential collaboration with the local community to create a temporary location for the hub while the permanent location is being secured. Alexandria Library was recommended by Tilda is one plausible location.
• Planning & Development: Demolition of internal non-load bearing partitions including full internal fill-out and alterations. 7 Mitchell Way. Cash Access UK.
• Planning & Development: Installation of an automated teller machine (ATM). 143 Main Street. NCR Atleos.
• WDC Development Plan 2025: Plan Scheme and Participation Statement. Available online. To be shared with CC Office Bearers.
• Helensburgh Community Council: Update provided on their Local Place Plan.
• Vale of Leven Hospital Watch: Joint meeting with NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde took place today. Ian and Barbara attended. Issues discussed including the recently changed bus service from VOLH to Royal Alexandria Hospital, new physio department, the Right Time, Right Place access protocol relating to Minor Injuries Unit and Medical Assessment Unit.
• WDC Waste Services: Bin collection change from 10th November. Waste bin – three weekly, recycle bin/brown bin – 2 weekly. Decision made by WDC in their efforts to improve recycling in the local authority. Information packs to be delivered to all addresses which includes calendar and an ID sticker to be put on waste bin to ensure it is collected. This should be received by 13th October. Apart from exceptional circumstances, there is to be one waste bin per address. Alexandria CC concerned with impact this change will have and feel that a more educational approach is required. We will monitor the situation as it develops.

Finance

• Current bank balance is £648.80p as of Wednesday 1st October 2025.
• Expenditure includes £30 to Tullichewan TRA, £20 to CATRA and Bank of Scotland £11.75p service charge. All details on file.
• Angela to query why the bank charge has jumped from £4.25p to £11.75p.
• Angela, Tilda and Harry to arrange meeting to add signatories to the bank account.

Alexandria Bid/Vale of Leven Trust

• Shirley McAlpine provided the following update in her absence:
• Alexandria BID and VOLT are well underway with plans for this year’s Christmas Light Switch On Event which again will incorporate our Winter market. It will take place on Saturday 29th November. The event will run from 12-5pm on Main Street, switch on at 4.30pm. Stallholder bookings are coming in and we have a variety of activities planned such as Santa's Grotto, local singing groups, schools etc, we also have our friends the Patchwork Ponies coming along again with their reindeer outfits on. Contributions are coming in from the community, local businesses, and organisations to include monetary and in-kind donations. If anyone would like to get involved in any way, please get in touch. I have attached a poster, I would be grateful if you could share, and I will also arrange for a printed version and some flyers to be dropped in to any of your organisations that have premises if that is okay.
• In addition to this VOLTs current community project "A Journey" will be showcasing the work of participants in Alexandria Library on Tuesday 14th October, there will be refreshments and an opportunity to find out about local people's interpretation of "The Vale, Then & Now" through research, craft work, and photography. Ayesha has possibly already been in touch with details, if not we will get the times to you when she returns from leave on Monday. VOLT has also successfully bid for grant money from Cycling Scotland to deliver "Family Learning" sessions. These sessions are aimed at adults, to support them in becoming confident to cycle with their children/families. This included money for a core set of peddle bikes of different sizes to suit all ages. Any children taking part must be able to cycle, the sessions are not to teach cycling but rather to increase confidence in cycling on road and as a family and learn how to navigate routes and develop the skills and awareness required to do this safely. We are looking into the purchase of the bikes just now; we will let you know when everything is in place for taking bookings.

Annual General Meeting

• Scheduled for Wednesday 19th November which will then followed by regular CC meeting.
• All present Community Councillors happy to stand again.
• Harry to contact Shirley with regards to helping with audit.

Alexandria Community Plan

• Following discussions with Matthew Spurway, WDC Place-making Coordinator, Colin asked Harry to forward draft plan to neighbouring Community Councils and local WDC Councillors in the Leven Ward asking for comments. This is to complete protocol required by the Scottish Government.
• Councillor Jim Bollan responded with the following: “Many thanks for the well-laid-out document covering the draft LPP drawn up by the local groups mentioned in the draft plan, and for the opportunity to comment on the draft document. The original development plan of the Lidl Supermarket off Mitchell Way included 25 housing units, which were excluded at the behest of the then planning manager. We still have 5,000 applicants on the Council Housing waiting list, and a crisis has already been declared by WDC as to the shortage of publicly rented accommodation locally. I believe the surplus land in Mitchell Way should be used for its original purpose, and we should build 25 Council Homes for rent. After the fire at St Andrews Church, I had a conversation with the Rev Ian Miller, who suggested the site could be turned into a "Peace Garden" for local people to sit in and enjoy. I support this idea to create a small green space in the Centre of the town where locals can gather to relax, with the area landscaped and appropriate seating. I hope these brief comments can be considered.”

Mitchell Way Project

No update.

Alexandria Notice Boards

Work almost completed and one will be located in the greenspace on Bank Street next to Vale of Leven Credit Union at least on a temporary basis.

Partnership with schools

Ian to contact Matthew Boyle, Vale of Leven Academy Head Teacher to open an invitation to pupils to a future meeting.

West Dunbartonshire Community Council Forum

• Discussions and correspondence in regard to a proposed new residents association in Ward 3 area (Dumbarton). Silverton and Overton CC are the local community council in area.
• Next CC Forum Meeting is on Wednesday 3rd December.

Roadworks/Traffic Management

Local community frustrated with inconsistent non-emergency planning of works including utility companies and traffic management businesses.

Parking

West Dunbartonshire Council have announced transfer of powers from Police Scotland this month. From 6th October, traffic wardens will be present in town centres (including Alexandria) to enforce parking regulations. This follows many years of complaints including public safety concerns.

Social Media/Website

•  Alexandria Community Council’s public page on Facebook currently with 7154 followers.
• Alexandria CC Notice Board Facebook group membership has passed the 8,000 milestone.

AOCB

• Supported Accommodation for Care Leavers: A property within Bridge Street, Alexandria, which is currently owned by WDC, has been identified as an option for renovation and refurbishment to provide suitable accommodation (6 bedrooms) for young people who are transitioning from being looked after to independent living. At present this project is currently in the design phase which is being progressed by WDC Housing in consultation with the project team. Provided by Barbara.
• St Andrew’s Church Site: Following on from recent enquiry out with, Harry to contact WDC Councillors in Leven Ward with regards to plans of this site which occupies graves. This site has been unsafe following the church fire.

With no other business the meeting was closed.

DONM

Wednesday 19th November 2025, 6.30pm at CATRA Hall, Alexandria. This includes Annual General Meeting.

Alexandria Community Council Meeting

Wednesday 19 November 2025, CATRA Hall, Alexandria

Present

Tilda McCrimmon (chair), Harry McCormack (minutes), Barbara Barnes, Angela Caldwell, Brian Kemsley, Shirley McAlpine (Vale of Leven Trust) Colin Smith (WDC Communities Team), Alan Hubner (aehweb – AGM and first CC item only)

Apologies

Ian Miller, Sian Wilkie

Previous Minutes

Agreed as accurate. Proposed by Angela Caldwell. Seconded by Barbara Barnes.

Chairperson Report

• Our third full year since re-establishing of Alexandria CC.
• Full support from West Dunbartonshire Council Communities Team – Colin Smith and Stephen Burns.
• CC meet approximately every 6 weeks at Alexandria Community Centre.
• Full support and representation from Central Alexandria TRA (CATRA) and Tullichewan TRA.
• Continuing link-up with Alexandria BID (formerly Traders Association) on topics such as the Alexandria Market, Christmas Event and local business support – Sian Wilkie.
• Continuing link up with Vale of Leven Trust on their efforts to improve the local community through a free bicycle hire and repair service, walking groups, local events, local projects and link up with Alexandria BID’s work – Shirley McAlpine.
• Continuing representation with the West Dunbartonshire Community Council Forum which is held quarterly. Tilda McCrimmon and Barbara Barnes.
• Continued involvement in discussions with WDC in the new Mitchell Way Project.
• Continued link-up with the now completed LIDL opening and Smollett Fountain lighting review.
• Public transport enquiries including First Glasgow bus services route changes and Scotrail with community raising issues on service reliability and safety issues. Both enquiries supported by Jackie Baillie MSP and Councillor Ian Dickson.
• Continuing enquiries including parking issues (new parking enforcement introduced by WDC), road works and traffic management, refuse and recycling (including new three-weekly refuse cycle), health and safety and grass cutting enquiries. This includes support from Councillor Jim Bollan.
• Linking up with Vale of Leven Hospital Watch in relation to changes in the bus service to Paisley Royal Alexandra Hospital by NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde. Following this, Alexandria CC now receives invites to their regular meetings.
• Facebook page continues to grow with over 700 members and 500 followers sharing Alexandria CC updates as well as West Dunbartonshire Council updates.
• Alexandria CC Notice Board Facebook group has grown considerably as an information and network tool for local businesses, groups and individuals. Over 6,000 members.
• Continuing development Alexandria town website run by Alan Hubner, aehweb.
• Tilda thanks all Community Councillors and working partners for their hard work throughout the year.

Finance Report

• Income - WDC Grant - £820.41
• Expenditure - 
  • Stationery and IT - £330.00
  • Room Hire - £189.48
  • Notice Board Project - £2,000.00
  • Bank Charges - £37.25
  • Total - £2,556.73
• Balance carried forward to next year:  £648.80
• Independent Examiner - Shirley McAlpine, Development Manager, Vale of Leven Trust.  24/10/2025

• Following discussion, it was agreed that future finance reports will have a starting balance to make the information easier to follow.

Election of Office Bearers

Chairperson – Ian Miller (to be rectified at next meeting when Ian is present)

Vice Chairperson – Tilda McCrimmon – proposed by Harry McCormack, seconded by Angela Caldwell.

Secretary – Harry McCormack – proposed by Tilda McCrimmon, seconded by Angela Caldwell.

Treasurer – Angela Caldwell – proposed by Harry McCormack, seconded by Tilda McCrimmon

Previous CC minutes 01/10/2025

Proposed by Angela Caldwell. Seconded by Tilda McCrimmon.

Alexandria Town Website

• Alan Hubner, aehweb provided an annual progress report how the website is developing.
• Site traffic has doubled in the last year with a lot more local information added for businesses, organisations and events.
• Alan has proposed a meeting to discuss future plans for the website’s development with representatives of Alexandria BID and West Dunbartonshire Council suggested around the table. A date for this will be arranged at next meeting.

Correspondence

• First Bus: Correspondence regarding Services 1/1A, 204/205 ongoing. Jackie Baillie MSP has been in conversations with the company but there is no upcoming changes or reversal. Alexandria CC’s recent correspondence to them not yet fully responded. Harry to resend.
• WDC Housing: Online survey on Allocations Policy Review – deadline 14th January 2026.
• WDC Block Building Insurance: Long-running policy from the Council for homeowners who purchased via the right to buy scheme to end in March 2026. This follows feedback from residents who wanted to arrange their own policies as the rising costs through the collective policy was causing major concern on affordability issues.
• Alexandria Banking Hub: This will be based at 171 Main Street, the former front shop of M&Co building. Following community information events, the opening date will be announced soon. The remaining bank – Bank of Scotland – will close in March 2026. There has been confusion that this will also operate the post office, but this is not the case, and any future post office service will be a separate entity.
• Mitchell Way Car Park: Councillor Jim Bollan enquired about the poor surface in the area including potholes in the access area. Work is now in progress.
• Dawn Conner: Email announcing the works by the JR Group commencing in Bank Street including clearance and setting up their site compound. The project has some community benefits including small works maintenance and donations to community organisations. Harry to email Dawn for more information.
• St Andrews Church Site: Following an enquiry, Councillor Jim Bollan has contacted Ian Bain, WDC Greenspace about the maintenance of the area. Concerns of safety for families wishing to visit family members in the graves in the area. West Dunbartonshire Council do not own the site itself.
• Vale of Leven Windfarm: Forwarded email from Kilmaronock CC. James Baird, Vale of Leven Windfarm Development Manager (Coroilis Energy) announcing a Public Local Inquiry for their application by the Scottish Government’s Planning and Environmental Division. Process expected to continue into 2027.
• WDC Equality Plan 2025-29: Easy-read version documents available via WDC website.
• WDC Planning & Development: Antartex Village. Demolition of approximately 2506m2 of existing retail space; erection of approximately 1625m2 retail space; formation of new vehicle and pedestrian access to car park; hard and soft landscaping works; refurbishment of retained building walls and roofs. Equorium Property Company Limited.
• WDC Planning & Development: 143 Main Street. Installation of automated teller machine (ATM) and signage. NCR Atleos.
• Fireworks: Alexandria CC discussed about our concern with regards to fireworks misuse in the area causing much disturbance and safety issues. Looking to link up with other community groups and initiatives on this issue.
• Balloch & Haldane CC: Two upcoming public information events discussing the Balloch & Haldane Community Place Plan.
• West Dunbartonshire Libraries: Online survey.
• West Dunbartonshire Leisure: Online survey.

Finance

• Current bank balance is £149.56p as of Wednesday 19th November 2025.
• Expenditure includes £60 to Tullichewan TRA, £20 to CATRA, £414.99p to Alan Hubner (aehweb) and Bank of Scotland £4.25p service charge. All details on file.

Alexandria Bid/Vale of Leven Trust

• Preparations for the upcoming Christmas Market/Light Switch-On event scheduled for Saturday 29th November.
• Fundraising efforts for Community Fund which will support continued future events.
• Santa’s Grotto, choir, special celebrity guest, real reindeers, ponies and host of free activities for families to enjoy.

Alexandria Community Plan

• Maps in document to be updated.
• When completed, the document will be taken to WDC Planning on 19th January 2026.

Mitchell Way Project

Following public consultation including workshops, update report expected in January/February 2026.

Alexandria Notice Board

Work completed. Tilda to contact Callum McConnachie, WDC Regeneration proposing for new notice board to be located in Mitchell Way.

Partnership with schools

Vale of Leven Academy currently conducting a “Your Vale, Your Vision” project with their pupils.

West Dunbartonshire Community Council Forum

• Recent workshop discussing the long-term future and effectiveness of community councils and relationship with West Dunbartonshire Council.
• Next CC Forum Meeting is on Wednesday 3rd December.

Roadworks/Traffic Management

No update

Parking

Harry to contact Scott McLelland, WDC on the update of the new parking enforcement team in Alexandria.

Social Media/Website

• Alexandria Community Council’s public page on Facebook currently with 784 followers.
• Alexandria CC Notice Board Facebook group membership has passed the 8,000 milestone.

AOCB

None

With no other business the meeting was closed.

DONM

Wednesday 24th January 2026, 6.30pm at CATRA Hall, Alexandria.