Falkirk Councilhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/newsFalkirk Council press articles60Grangemouth event to help build stronger communities across Forth ValleyImage: Grangemouth Town Hall
 
More than 180 community representatives have been invited to Grangemouth Town Hall this week (Friday 15 March) to discuss Community Wealth Building that aims to revitalise communities across Forth Valley.
 
They will join Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance, Tom Arthur MSP who will talk about what is happening across Scotland and then hear first-hand from those involved about the work taking place that is helping to increase local investment. 
 
Also present will be the three Council Leaders.: Cllr Ellen Forson (Clackmannanshire Council), Cllr Cecil Meiklejohn (Falkirk Council) and Cllr Chris Kane (Stirling Council) who will join the Minster for a question and answer session on the day.
 
Community Wealth Building (CWB) represents a community-focused strategy for local economic development, redirecting wealth back into the local economy and placing control and benefits in the hands of residents. 
 
At its core, community wealth building involves collaborative efforts with communities and businesses to cultivate a robust local economy that promotes fair work, encourages local spending, and utilizes owned land and property for the common good. 
 
The approach leverages the influence of anchor institutions, including Councils, the NHS, and Universities/colleges, to support the local economy and retain wealth and investment locally.
 
During the morning, representatives will share knowledge as well as take part in workshops to understand how better to bring this work to local communities.
 
Cllr Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council explained: “Community Wealth Building will help ensure our communities can overcome the many barriers faced by local communities in a democratic and collaborative way.
 
“Using the combined resources that we have locally and across the region with our partners in Stirling and Clackmannanshire, we can maximise the impact on what we can all deliver to benefit our areas.”
 
Minister for Community Wealth and Public Finance Tom Arthur said: “The Scottish Government has embraced the Community Wealth Building approach to economic development as a key way to support a thriving wellbeing economy. 
 
“We have seen great progress in delivering the approach, with Local Authorities and other public bodies working in partnership with communities and businesses to transform their local and regional economies. As a result, Scotland is being recognised as a global leader in implementing Community Wealth Building.”
 
 
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Wed, 13 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7703
Arrivederci, Ciao! and Addio! to the Doddie Weir ‘All Roads Lead to Rome Challenge teamPupils and Teachers at Murrayfield Stadium recently

Carrongrange High School pupils were at Murrayfield stadium in Edinburgh last week as part of the official Doddie Weir ‘All Roads Lead to Rome’ send-off delegation party.

They followed the elite cycling team in procession at the starting line on their own adapted bikes and bid them ‘Addio’ on their 3000km Italian adventure in support of the My Name's Doddie Foundation.

In honour of Doddie and his nickname ‘The Giraffe’, the pupils created a banner showing a collage of seven giraffes, one representing each country within the 6 Nations and the centre giraffe representing Doddie himself. This banner will be travelling by bike, to Rome in the safe hands of the official team.

The elite team are currently en route to cycle 3000km to Rome via each of the Rugby 6 Nations stadia and they were sent on their way by the school’s Makaton Choir performing a rousing rendition of The Flower of Scotland. Makaton is an inclusive language programme that uses symbols, signs, and speech to enable people to communicate.

Over the past few weeks, all 168 pupils have been participating in their very own ‘Carrongrange Challenge’. They have been paddleboarding, swimming and cycling their way to match the 3000km distance that the elite cycling team will cover to get to Rome.

Janine Proudlock, Carrongrange Headteacher said: “Every single pupil at the school has been involved in our ‘Carrongrange Challenge.’ The pupils have loved working as a team and their combined efforts will cover an unbelievable 3000km! I could not be prouder of them all. “

She added: “The children involved in the send-off delegation were absolutely thrilled to be taking part in the leaving procession and we will all be keeping a close eye on the elite team’s progress and our Doddie Weir Giraffe Banner! “

The Carrongrange Challenge has already raised an impressive £1169.50 for the My Name’s Doddie Foundation, donations can be made on their Just Giving Page.

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Thu, 07 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7701
Executive: Approval given for Falkirk Foundation community hub leaseCouncillors have agreed to rent unused land at the back of the Falkirk Stadium to the Falkirk Foundation for £1 a year.

At yesterday's meeting of the Executive (Tuesday, 5 March), Councillors granted a 25-year Community Benefit Lease to the charity paving the way for the Foundation to build a purpose-built community hub on the 787m2 site.

The Foundation can now progress to put in place the necessary agreements with stakeholders and seek the appropriate statutory consents to advance the delivery of the project.

Once built, the hub will support mental health and wellbeing through activities including community football, mental health programmes, and educational initiatives. Additionally, the hub will house classrooms, office space, changing rooms, and showers.

The Foundation has solid financial backing for the hub, having secured £720,000 in funding from The Scottish FA’s Department of Culture, Media, and Sport Levelling Up Fund allocation, EB Scotland, and sportscotland.

Extensive consultation with local community groups and organisations highlighted widespread support for the project and an assessment of the charity’s proposals made clear the social, health, and voluntary contributions of the hub would far outweigh the waived rental income for the Council.

Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council, said:

"By approving the Community Benefit Lease, we are helping the Falkirk Foundation not only invest in the creation of a community hub but also in the mental health and wellbeing of local people, which sits well with our priorities for a healthier, stronger Falkirk. We all look forward to seeing the land transformed over the coming months into a vibrant community asset."

Visit https://falkirkfoundation.org/ to find out more about the Falkirk Foundation and its work.

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Wed, 06 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7698
Executive: 20mph zone trial approved for AirthAirth residents will be the first community in Falkirk Council to benefit from a 20mph speed limit in the village to create safer and healthier places.

Lowering speed limits can promote safer streets, encourage more sustainable forms of travel like walking, wheeling and cycling and create streets which are shared more equally between different road users.

A proposal to run an 18-month pilot scheme in the village was approved at yesterday's Executive meeting and will allow Council officers to collect and analyse information on before and after vehicle speeds and monitor the impact and suitability of 20mph limits.

Based on the pilot, officers will then consider implementation at 16 other settlements including Avonbridge, Shieldhill and Dunmore.

The pilot scheme could be introduced as soon as April 2024.

A consultation was carried out in February 2024 with Airth residents which showed strong support for a 20mph speed limit with:

  • 70.9% strongly or partially supported a 20mph speed limit in built-up residential areas
  • 90% strongly or tended to agree that speed limits should be implemented where safety is an issue.

Further Consultation

Further public consultation would be undertaken to gather feedback and gauge public opinion on the 20mph speed limit at each settlement prior to implementation.

Falkirk Council Leader Cecil Meiklejohn said: "It was good to see such strong support from the residents of Airth for the introduction of 20mph speed limits in the village. This initiative aligns with our commitment to creating safer and healthier communities and by lowering speed limits, we aim to promote safer streets, encourage sustainable modes of travel, and foster a more equitable sharing of our roads.

“The 18-month pilot scheme will allow officers to gather crucial data on the impact and suitability of these limits, paving the way for implementation in other settlements across the Falkirk Council area."

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Wed, 06 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7700
Executive: Falkirk Council approves full £140m Growth Deal plan Another significant milestone in Falkirk Council's plans to boost the local economy and help the area transition to Net Zero has been reached with the approval of the full £140m Growth Deal.

At a meeting of the Executive today (Tuesday, 5 March), Councillors gave the green light to submit the comprehensive document, which outlines how the Council will manage and deliver 10 projects and the Greener Grangemouth programme that make up the Deal, to the UK and Scottish governments.

Together the projects funded through the Deal aim to improve infrastructure and encourage sustainable development, ultimately encouraging growth and bringing prosperity to everyone who lives in the Falkirk area.

Projects such as the new Falkirk Town Hall, Scottish Canal Centre at Loch 16, and the new Art Park aim to breathe new life into public spaces and create hubs for culture and community, while the Greener Grangemouth will promote community wellbeing.

The Rail and Transport Hub and Green Cycle and Pedestrian Network aim to boost the area’s active travel credentials and a new sustainable manufacturing campus is set to position the area as a world-leader in innovation and green tech.

The Skills Transition Centre and the Transport, Renewable and Career Exploration Hub projects will provide local industry with the skills needed to support the transition to Net Zero, and inward investment will be encouraged through a project that will unlock unused land to support industrial growth.

The Council expects to sign the final agreement with the governments by the end of June, which would allow projects to get underway this July.

By backing the Growth Deal, Councillors pave the way for significant funding and support which includes £80m of government capital funding and £12m of revenue funding for Greener Grangemouth, as well as £45m from the Council and £5.8m from Scottish Canals.

The Council believes the deal will create up to 2,000 jobs and attract £1bn of future investment over the next decade.

Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council, said:

"This is a pivotal moment for the Falkirk area. The Growth Deal represents a bold vision for the future, one that prioritises economic prosperity alongside environmental sustainability. With the approval of the full Growth Deal today, we are committing to tangible action that will shape the lives of our residents for years to come. I am confident that this partnership between government, educational institutions, and industry will pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for all."

Credit: Aerial image of the Falkirk area courtesy of Scotdrone.

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Tue, 05 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7697
Bo’ness Recreation Centre: Swimming Pool closed with immediate effect Monday 4 March 2024.Following an independent structural engineer’s inspection of the swimming pool at Bo’ness Recreation Centre on Thursday 29 February 2024, a decision has been taken to close the pool with immediate effect to ensure both customers and staff are protected from the health and safety risks posed.

This follows on from an earlier building surveyor report presented to elected members in January 2024 highlighting the building was rated as a ‘D’ being categorised as  “life expired and/or serious risk of imminent failure; risk of injury”.

The external structural engineers have found significant deterioration in the pool’s structural integrity with the report stating that:

‘Water was observed to be seeping through the pool wall to the full perimeter of the ‘deep end’ of the pool, including the public corridor on the east side.

‘It is recommended that the pool water be immediately drained down to remove load from the wall and that in the interim period, access within the plant room corridor is prohibited.’

At this stage, it is unclear how long the pool will be unusable.

Head of Invest Falkirk, Paul Kettrick said: “It is unfortunate that we have had to close the pool, but customer and employee safety must come first.

“The report is clear in that it states the condition of some of the concrete is poor and that water is leaking at several points leading to the conclusion that we have to close the pool with immediate effect.”

We have informed staff and will be in contact directly with customers who have scheduled bookings.

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Mon, 04 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7694
Council Tax frozen for 2024/25Falkirk Council this week (28 February) agreed to freeze its Council Tax rate with a Band 'D' property remaining at £1362.82 per annum for 2024/25.

£1 million in funding was allocated for village regeneration in Bainsford and Langlees, and Dunipace.

It also agreed to set aside £30m of service concessions into an earmarked reserve for Capital investment which can only be unlocked when the Council is more financially sustainable, and which could support projects such as:

  • Falkirk Town Hall
  • Outcome of the Sport and Leisure Policy Development Panel that is looking at future sports and leisure provision across the area.
  • Local sport, leisure and wellbeing facilities (Denny and the Braes)
  • iPad Learning program

The Council agreed that following the recent letter from the Cabinet Secretary for Education a report should be brought back to members on any potential implications on the proposal for changes to the school week but that this should not delay the public consultation taking place.

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: "This has been without a doubt the most challenging budget we have ever set.

“Freezing Council Tax is not an easy decision to take given the size of our financial deficit, but we must balance the real difficulties many families are facing with the current cost of living crisis.

“Many low-income families already receive reduced Council Tax and are protected from any increases.

“It was inevitable that fees and charges would increase however across the board our rates have been historically low and and are not sustainable.

“We still have a long way to go in terms of eliminating our deficit however we are making inroads and will continue to monitor closely spending over the coming years.

“We also welcome the commitment by the Scottish Government to the additional £17.7m funding and to the £45m consequential that will flow from the UK Government while acknowledging that this is dependent on confirmation from the UK Government Spring Statement."

A meeting of Falkirk Council will discuss proposals for capital expenditure at a later date.

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Thu, 29 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7693
Executive: Strong support from Airth residents for 20mph speed limitsAirth residents could be the first community in Falkirk Council to benefit from a 20mph speed limit in the village to create safer and healthier places.

Lowering speed limits can promote safer streets, encourage more sustainable forms of travel like walking, wheeling and cycling and create streets which are shared more equally between different road users.

A proposal to run an 18-month pilot scheme in the village to allow Council officers to collect and analyse information on before and after vehicle speeds and monitor the impact and suitability of 20mph limits.

Based on the pilot, officers would then consider implementation at 16 other settlements including Avonbridge, Shieldhill and Dunmore.

If approved at the Executive meeting on 5 March 2024, the pilot scheme could be introduced as soon as April 2024.

A consultation was carried out in in February 2024 with Airth residents which showed strong support for a 20mph speed limit with:

  • 70.9% strongly or partially supported a 20mph speed limit in built up residential areas
  • 90% strongly or tended to agree that speed limits should be implemented where safety is an issue.

Further public consultation would be undertaken to gather feedback and gauge public opinion on the 20mph speed limit at each settlement prior to implementation.

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services said: “Residents in Airth have shown support for the introduction of 20 mph speed limits to create a better and healthier environment for the community.   The pilot scheme would provide valuable information on before and after speeds and would help shape further proposals to implement reduced speeds in other parts of the Falkirk Council area.

“It is now for Elected Members to consider the information before them and decide on the best way forward.”

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Tue, 27 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7690
Executive: Crucial next step for Falkirk's Growth DealThe crucial next step in Falkirk Council’s journey to deliver economic growth through its transformative £140m Falkirk Growth Deal could be taken at a meeting of the Executive next week.

On March 5th, Councillors will be asked to approve the submission of the full Falkirk Growth Deal document. This is a comprehensive plan that lays out how the Council will manage and deliver the 10 projects and Greener Grangemouth programme that make up the Deal.

Funded projects include the new Falkirk Town Hall, the creation of Scotland’s Canal Centre at Lock 16, a new Art Park for the area, an upgraded Rail and Transport Hub at Falkirk Grahamston along with a Green Cycle and Pedestrian Network.

There will also be a Skills Transition Centre at Forth Valley College to teach the skills needed for moving to Net Zero, the transformation of unused land into sites ready to support industrial growth, a new sustainable manufacturing campus to support modern biotechnology and advanced uses for carbon dioxide.

A Transport, Renewables and Career Exploration Hub will be established in partnership with Forth Ports, and a Greener Grangemouth project to use £12m to help the local community benefit from the transition to Net Zero.

If agreed by Councillors, the document will be submitted to the UK and Scottish Governments, with the Council anticipating all parties will sign the final agreement by the end of June. That would allow projects to get underway and start to release £80m worth of government capital funding needed to deliver the deal together with £12m revenue funding for Greener Grangemouth. The first projects are hoped to get underway in July 2024.

The Council believes the ambitious timeline signifies a shared commitment to deliver on the promises made by the Growth Deal over the coming decade. These promises include job creation, improving local infrastructure, and economic diversification, all underpinned by a commitment that would see communities benefit equally from the deal.

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services, said: "The Falkirk Growth Deal is a commitment by Falkirk Council, and the Scottish and UK Governments to both economic revitalisation, a greener future and the wellbeing of our local communities. It’s an exciting new chapter in Falkirk’s story, highlighting the power of collaboration between central and local government, higher education, the public sector and business to deliver a shared vision for a brighter future for all.

“The project promises to bring new high-tech and green industry to the area, create an improved transport network, open up training opportunities for young people to launch rewarding careers, regenerate our canals, support the renewal of Falkirk Town Centre, and ensure Grangemouth and its community sees the benefits of supporting one of Scotland’s most important industrial zones.

“It is now for Councillors to decide if the proposals represent the best way forward for the area and if they do then our team will hit the ground running to start delivering this vision to bring real and tangible benefits to everyone in the Falkirk area."

Falkirk Growth Deal Projects

The projects that make up the Deal sit under two themes:

Creating Great Places

Image of Calendar Square Shopping Centre, the site where the new arts centre will be built.

  • The Falkirk Arts Centre: £6 million will be allocated to the construction of a new Arts Centre on the site of a largely vacant shopping centre, Calendar Square (pictured). The Arts Centre aims to totally transform the high street and help address declining footfall and spending. It will serve as a dynamic venue for cultural and community activities, featuring a 550-seat auditorium, shared studio spaces, a library, a café-bar, and an advice hub.
  • Scotland’s Canal Centre: Led by Scottish Canals, the canal centre project will revitalise a neglected area of the canal network by restoring three derelict warehouses at Loch 16 on the Forth & Clyde Canal. As part of the £7.7m project (£4m from the Deal), a new operational hub will be built featuring areas for collaborative work, flexible educational and event spaces, and improved access to the surrounding area, which will be designed in collaboration with the local community.
  • Scotland’s Art Park: Working in partnership, Scottish Canals and Falkirk Council will use £3 million from the Deal to create an Art Park along the Forth and Clyde Canal. The trail will connect key sites across Falkirk, bringing to life an under-utilised canal corridor. The Art Park masterplan will focus on leisure, culture, active travel, and enhancing natural assets.
  • Falkirk Central Sustainable Transport Network: By improving public and active travel infrastructure in and around Falkirk, two interconnected projects will support local demand for better travel options. The Rail Station Interchange (Hub) project will see Falkirk Grahamston renamed Falkirk Central and £9 million will be invested to enhance the rail station and create a new interchange ('Hub') for sustainable transport. The Green Cycle and Pedestrian Network project will support the Hub using £12m to create a new cycle and pedestrian pathways that connect communities and promote active travel.

Innovative Industry

Aerial image of Grangemouth including Inchyra Park

  • Skills Transition Centre (STC): Led by Forth Valley College, the project will establish the STC, bringing together partners to develop the skills needed to support the transition to Net Zero. With £4m investment, the STC will support emerging sectors and transitioning industries by providing state-of-the-art equipment and specialist resources like virtual reality, simulation, drones, digital classrooms and immersive spaces alongside a 10-year skills development programme.
  • Strategic Sites: Addressing a shortage of development-ready strategic investment sites, the project will use £10 million to improve and prepare currently unused land at potentially three key sites in a bid to attract investment in innovation-based uses and addressing the broader need for investment in Grangemouth’s core industrial sectors.
  • Grangemouth Sustainable Manufacturing Campus (GSMC): The GSMC includes two linked projects: the Bioeconomy Accelerator Pilot Plant (BAAP) and the Carbon Dioxide Utilisation Centre (CDU). BAAP will use £10m of funding to set up a hub for modern industrial biotechnology, fostering collaboration among industry, academia, and government to support industrial decarbonisation. Another £10 million will create the CDU, which will test advanced carbon dioxide utilisation technologies, aiding their adoption and speeding up commercialisation efforts.
  • Transport, Renewables and Career Exploration Hub: The Hub will serve as a focal point for industry and education, enhancing local skills and advancing green growth ambitions. Based in Grangemouth, it will offer virtual and augmented reality experiences to young people and help to upskill those working in transitioning industries.
  • Greener Grangemouth: Using £10m from the Scottish Government and £2m from the Deal, the 10-year project aims to put community wellbeing at the heart of Grangemouth’s transition to Net Zero. The project aims to tackle climate change, health disparities, and urban decline while improving community assets, wellbeing services, partnerships, skills, employment, community wealth, and public spaces.

Credit:  Aerial images of the Falkirk area (header) and Grangemouth (Innovative Industry) courtesy of Scotdrone.

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Tue, 27 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7691
Executive: Falkirk Foundation community hub lease Councillors will decide whether to rent Falkirk Foundation land for £1 a year to let them build a major community hub on unused land at the back of the Falkirk Stadium.

By granting the charity a 25-year Community Benefit Lease at meeting of the Executive next week, councillors would enable the Foundation to support delivery of its ambitious plans to build a vibrant community asset.

Once built, the hub will improve people's mental health and wellbeing through activities such as community football, mental health programmes, and educational initiatives. It will also house classrooms, office space, changing rooms and showers - facilities the charity believes will encourage more people to take part in activities such as women's football.

An evaluation of the charity’s proposals to transform the 787m2 site has also highlighted the substantial social, health, and voluntary contributions that the Foundation's initiatives will bring, far outweighing the waived rental income for the Council.

Extensive consultation with stakeholders, including health organisations, educational institutions, and local community groups, has also helped highlight the opportunities the development would bring and the widespread support the Foundation has for the project.

The Foundation has secured £720,00 of funding for the hub from The Scottish FA’s Department of Culture, Media and Sport Levelling Up Fund allocation, EB Scotland, and sportscotland.

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services said:

"This proposal would open up a major investment by the Falkirk Foundation in a community hub that could benefit the local area and help improve mental health and general wellbeing. This commitment to empowering and supporting healthier and stronger communities aligns well with the Council’s priorities. It is now down to Councillors to decide if this is the best way forward for the Falkirk area. "

Credit: Aerial images of the Falkirk Stadium courtesy of Scotdrone.

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Tue, 27 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7692
Campaign to reduce single use litter launchedSingle-use packaging generated from our love of on-the-go food and drink is being tackled with an innovative collaboration between ourselves, Forth Valley College, local authorities in Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Falkirk and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP).

With its main campuses located in Alloa, Falkirk and Stirling, Forth Valley College students and employees have been asked to consider how they can help reduce the on-the-go food and drink litter which accounts for 63% of all litter counted across the three sites.

To reduce on-the-go food and drink litter and improve recycling, street bins near the three campuses have been wrapped with engaging messaging, a billboard and targeted digital online advertising will be deployed, and increased recycling provision will be introduced on-campus during a seven-week campaign targeting Forth Valley College students and staff and the wider community until the end of March.

Students and staff were asked for their views earlier this year and 78% confirmed they enjoy at least one item of on-the-go food or drink each week. But, with 75% indicating the damage that on-the-go food and drink litter could do to the environment and nature was of concern to them, and 85% being concerned about the amount of littered packaging there was from on-the-go food and drink, it is clear now is the time to tackle the problem.

Barry Fisher, our Chief Executive, said: “We all enjoy on-the-go food and drink whether it is a sandwich, a bag of crisps, a chocolate bar or a can of soft drink. A quarter of litter recorded in our national surveys comes from food and drink packaging and the Scottish Litter Survey found 90% of people agree that litter is a problem across our country.

“So, it is vital that we encourage everyone to consider what they do with their packaging. Only by working in collaboration with national and local government, businesses and communities will we be able to test campaign messages and evaluate their success.

“Ultimately, we want to see people recycling where possible, but at the very least we need everyone to bin their waste and not to drop or chuck it – further deepening Scotland’s litter emergency.”

Forth Valley College Principal Kenny MacInnes, said: “We are delighted to be helping Keep Scotland Beautiful with their survey and their litter and recycling intervention delivery plan. This will raise awareness of the proper way to recycle among young people in the Forth Valley area, and where better to do that than in Forth Valley College. This initiative ties in well with our Sustainability and Net Zero plans and we are hopeful the awareness raised through this campaign will enhance our own efforts to recycle.”

Jo Padwick, Senior Sustainability Manager at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB, said: “We’re excited to partner with Keep Scotland Beautiful, Forth Valley College and local authorities on a campaign that will help support our mission of increasing recycling rates.

“As a brand well-loved in Scotland, we recognise the responsibility we have in ensuring as much of our packaging is recovered and recycled as possible. We’re striving towards a World Without Waste, and we’ve set ourselves a goal to collect and recycle a bottle or can for every one we sell by 2030. Collaborating with businesses and government organisations is one important way we can continue to drive our sustainability goals forward and look to create a more circular economy.”

Cllr Bryan Deakin, Falkirk Council’s spokesperson for Climate Change, said: “We are fully behind this campaign to encourage behaviour change towards what people do with their waste packaging. It doesn’t take much to find a recycling point or take any packaging away until they can recycle it properly. Litter costs us dearly in both our environment and the resources that are dedicated to cleaning up afterwards. There’s no excuse.”

This campaign to inspire behaviour change to reduce litter and increase recycling is being delivered by Keep Scotland Beautiful, a key delivery partner of the National Litter and Flytipping Strategy and Action Plan, and is partly funded by CCEP.

 

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Wed, 21 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7688
Where old meets new – how local secondary pupils are using new technology to see how the past can be preservedAround 80 pupils from Larbert and St Mungo’s High Schools are learning how new technology is preserving local historical heritage this week (19 February).

As part of the Bruce Obelisk restoration project, pupils have been working with experts involved in the restoration of the Obelisk as well as technical teams from Historical Environment Scotland in a series of workshops.

The workshops feature four areas of work where pupils will get hands-on with various tools and technology:

  • Making patterns for ironwork
  • Ironwork restoration and decoration
  • Using 3D imaging and printing, and augmented and virtual reality in historic conservation
  • Using thermal imagery to identify heat loss

At the end of the workshops, pupils will also have a chance to hear about exploring a career in construction.

Councillor Iain Sinclair, Falkirk Council’s spokesperson for Education said: “Pupils will get first-hand experience how special skills and new technology can have a big impact on preserving and restoring our built heritage.

“They will be working with some of the actual team who are carrying out the Bruce Obelisk work currently and when it is restored later this year, we are confident that many of the young people will have a greater understanding of what has been involved.”

Ali Davey, Traditional Materials Project Manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said: “Through these workshops, not only are we restoring the Bruce Obelisk, we're utilising this project as an opportunity to engage with local communities and showcase the importance of skills in conservation.

“We're thrilled to be able to introduce pupils to the variety of ways in which we work, involving a range of new technologies to help conserve a key aspect of our national heritage."

The Bruce Obelisk is an important piece of local history commemorating James Bruce of Kinnaird, a descendant of the most famous King of Scots, Robert the Bruce.

Made by Carron Iron Works, the Obelisk is a cast-iron monument commissioned in 1785 by James Bruce himself in memory of his wife Mary and stands as a testament to Falkirk’s craftsmanship and heritage during the Industrial Revolution.

After being temporarily moved in 1993, the Obelisk has endured the test of time and the elements but was deteriorating and was sent for repair in 2023.

Thanks to local community efforts and funding from Historical Environment Scotland, Avondale Environmental, part of the NPL Group, through the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund and Lottery-funded Inner Forth Landscape Initiative Management and Maintenance Fund the Obelisk is currently being carefully restored and is expected to be back on site in Larbert Old Church in late Spring of 2024.

Local Community Groups and Institutions including Falkirk Made Friends, Falkirk Preceptory and Priory, Falkirk Local History Society, Communities Along the Carron and Larbert Old Parish Church have also supported the project. In addition, Lord Thurlow, a descendant of James Bruce, to whose family the Obelisk was dedicated, has also confirmed his family’s support for the project.

The restoration project is being led by Falkirk Council and managed on-site by consultants WSP and the intricate process of rejuvenating the Obelisk is being led by iron restoration specialists Lost Art Limited in Wigan.

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Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7687
Westfield: Temporary closure of footpath under Midthorn underpass The footpath leading from the Helix under the Midthorn underpass towards the Falkirk Stadium is closed until further notice.

Anyone looking to access the park from the stadium site or vice versa, should use the alternative signposted route, crossing the A904 at the traffic lights closer to Westfield Roundabout.

By the end of next week, a temporary footpath will be constructed to provide a more direct route from the Midthorn underpass onto the A904 next to Evans Halshaw.

The closure of the footpath allows Balfour Beatty to continue work on the ambitious A9/A904 Westfield project, the largest and most significant infrastructure investment within Falkirk Council's innovative Tax Incremental Finance programme.

To find out more about the project read our news story and visit https://a9-a904improvements.co.uk/

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Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7686
Upgrade work starts on Grandsable Junction next weekImprovement work starts next week (19 February) as contractors move forward on the next phase of Cadgers Brae Upgrade project at the M9 Junction 5 which aims to improve traffic flow and connectivity in the area.

Expected to last until the summer of 2024, this stage of the work will see improvements to the junction of Grandsable Road and A9.  The changes will see the installation of traffic signals at the junction and include new footpaths, traffic signage, road markings and road lighting.

The project will also include enhanced landscaping, with the removal of smaller individual trees and scrub vegetation offset by the introduction of more native trees, hedgerows, and wildflower grass. Ecology surveys were conducted during the design phase of the work in 2023.

While most of the work will be carried out under temporary traffic lights, some unavoidable disruption may occur with minor pedestrian diversions. A temporary 30mph speed limit will be in place for the duration of the work.

Councillor Paul Garner, Depute Leader of Falkirk Council explained: “Once phase two is completed, it will mark a significant milestone in the overall M9 Junction 5 Cadgers Brae Upgrading project.

“By regulating traffic flow and enhancing connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists, this phase contributes to a safer and a more efficient transportation network.”

Phase one of the project included the installation of permanent traffic signals, enhanced pedestrian and new cycle crossing facilities at Cadgers Brae roundabout (M9 Junction 5).

Work is being carried out on behalf of Falkirk Council by Hillhouse Quarry Group with an overall investment of approximately £1M for phase two.

The project is part of the Tax Incremental Finance (TIF) Scheme which utilises revenue generated from commercial development to fully fund road infrastructure improvements.

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Tue, 13 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7685
All Roads Lead to Rome… and Carrongrange High School!Image: Pupils and staff from Carrongrange get ready for the challenge!
 

All 168 pupils from Carrongrange High School are on the road to Rome this month without even leaving their school.

Supporting The My Name’s Doddie Foundation, ‘Roads to Rome’ team, the school has organised its own ‘Carrongrange Challenge’ where pupils will take part in a 3000km challenge that will see them riding bikes, paddleboarding, swimming and other activities throughout February to meet the target.

Their challenge mirrors the elite ‘Roads to Rome’ team riders who will depart Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh on Wednesday 28th February, cycling 3000km to Rome via each of the Rugby 6 Nations stadia to raise money and awareness for My Names Doddie Foundation and help find a cure for MND.

The elite team will cover the gruelling distance by bike over nine days and Marcello Cuttitta, Italy Rugby legend, will be presented with the match ball in Monaco and has been supporting the team’s arrangements for Italy.

Pupils will be paddleboarding to represent when the teams are crossing the Irish Sea, swimming when they are crossing the English Channel and cycling, running, jumping, hopping, and dancing their way to match the 3000km distance that the cycling team will cover to get to Rome.

Several pupils will also travel to Edinburgh on the 28th February and be part of the official send-off and will follow the elite team in procession using their own adapted bikes as they leave Edinburgh for their Italian adventure.

The school’s Makaton Choir will be waving them off with a rousing rendition of 'Flower of Scotland'. Makaton is an inclusive language programme that uses symbols, signs, and speech to enable people to communicate.

Janine Proudfoot, Carrongrange Headteacher said: “The entire school is really excited by the challenge as it allows everyone to take part in the fundraising. Being part of this huge event gives the school a positive boost and those who are part of the official send-off are excited to be at the heart of everything.”

Councillor Iain Sinclair, spokesperson for Education said: “This is a magnificent effort by everyone at Carrongrange. Supporting the work of this cause is to be commended and would urge everyone to get behind the school’s fundraising efforts.”

The Carrongrange Team Challenge will see pupils:

•            Cycling the 3000km to Rome - 15000 laps of their school playground

•            Swimming the English Channel – 1780 laps of their swimming pool

•            Paddleboarding the width of the Irish Sea and back again.

Donations can be made to their Just Giving Page to help raise money for the My Name’s Doddie Foundation and keep track of their progress via their social channels.

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Mon, 12 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7684
Better service and improved air quality as three new cremators installed in Falkirk's crematorium

Image: Councillor Stacey Devine (centre) joins staff at Falkirk's Crematorium

Three new cremators installed in Falkirk Crematorium over the past seven months will now see an improved service and better air quality for the area. 

An investment of £1.6m has been made in the facility that features new abatement equipment which will remove mercury, nitrous oxides and other chemicals before the clean flue gases are released to the outside air. 

The new equipment will be fully compliant with environmental regulations which relate to crematorium operation and will mean Falkirk has one of the most up-to-date crematoriums in Scotland.

The cremators are expected to have an operational lifespan of up to 25 years and use less energy than previously.  

Councillor Stacey Devine, spokesperson for Public Protection said: “The new cremators will be kinder to the environment by using less energy than previously as well as lowering costs to the Council. 

“Thanks to the hard work of the crematorium staff, cremations continued throughout the installation process and disruptions to the service were kept to a minimum.

“They are now looking forward to providing a more reliable and more efficient service to the public in the years to come.”

The cremators were installed by Facultatieve Technologies based in Leeds with the design co-ordinated by the Council’s Building Design team.

 

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Tue, 06 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7683
Education Scotland HMI – Quality learning at Braes HighBraes High School recently underwent a comprehensive HMI inspection which showcased the school’s commitment to providing high quality learning experiences for all pupils.

The inspection took place in November 2023 and looked at learning, teaching and assessment and the school’s successful drive to raise attainment and achievement.

The report was published in January 2024 with exceptional achievements across multiple themes including learning and engagement, teaching quality, creating a positive climate for learning with high standards in numeracy and literacy.

The inspection team found the following strengths in the school’s work:

  • The headteacher and staff have very successfully developed and maintained a strong culture of support and working together with young people resulting in highly motivated pupils
  • Young people’s learning and experiences are enhanced by creative and extensive use of digital technology across the school
  • Young people benefit from a very extensive range of activities and programmes which support wider achievement within the school
  • Young people demonstrate very strong attainment, especially in literacy and numeracy.

Councillor Ian Sinclair, spokesperson for Education said: “The inspection findings reinforce Braes High School’s commitment to continuous improvement and providing an enriching learning environment for all pupils. The school will continue to build on its strengths to ensure every learner receives the learning and support required for success.”

Braes High Head Teacher Iain Livingstone emphasised the importance of team and partnership working in response to the HMI inspection report. He said: “The inspection findings highlight the collaborative efforts of our entire school community at Braes High. Young people, parents/carers and colleagues have worked well together to successfully develop and maintain a strong culture of support and it is pleasing to see our highly motivated pupils being recognised, along with their high levels of attainment and achievement”.

The inspection team praised staff for their very good knowledge of young people and how the school recognises and celebrates young people’s success. Inspectors also highlighted the strong leadership skills developed by pupils through the commendable range of achievements across the school, noting that young people are proud of their school and feel valued and supported.

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Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7680
HMI inspectors give positive report for Hallglen primary schoolStrong leadership from the headteacher and collaborative efforts of staff, who work seamlessly together, placing children at the centre have been highlighted as strengths in a recent Education Scotland HMI report.

The Inspectors visited the school in November 2023 and in all measures used to judge how well the school is performing, Hallglen Primary school was found to be consistently very good and good across all four performance indicators.

The report published in January 2024 highlighted a number of strengths which include:

  • The Headteacher along with senior leaders provide strong, highly effective leadership and direction with a clear focus on ensuring children’s wellbeing and meeting the needs of families
  • Digital technology is used creatively across all stages and has received a national Digital Schools Award for this work
  • Most children are attaining expected national standards in literacy, English, numeracy and mathematics
  • All children are happy, settled and motivated to learn.

Inspectors noted that children at Hallglen Primary take pride in their school and display enthusiasm for learning and reflecting the school’s core values. They also commended the school for providing a wide range of high quality digital learning opportunities which enhance children’s skills for life, learning and work.

Councillor Ian Sinclair, spokesperson for Education said: “Staff, parents and pupils have to be congratulated for their hard work, commitment and contribution to the whole school community.

“Inspectors were very impressed with all aspects of the learning, teaching and wider opportunities provided for all pupils.

“The school has an excellent teaching team in place who fully encourage pupils to realise their full potential.”

Morag Carson, Headteacher of Hallglen Primary school added: “We are delighted to receive the positive HMI report, affirming the dedication and collaborative efforts of our staff at Hallglen Primary.

“Our focus on children's wellbeing and our commitment to creating a positive learning environment are testament to the hard work of everyone in our school community.

“We are proud of the achievements noted, including our innovative use of digital technology, attainment in national standards, and the overall happiness, settlement, and motivation of our pupils. As we move forward, we remain committed to continuous improvement, building on our successes, and providing a holistic and well-rounded educational experience that extends beyond the classroom into the local community and outdoor spaces."

Inspectors identified a few areas for continuing improvement which have already been correctly identified and are currently being taken forward by the school.

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Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7681
Significant investment in Council housing agreed over next five yearsA report outlining proposals for a significant investment in Falkirk Council’s housing stock was agreed at today’s full Council meeting (31 January).

£317.176 million will be spent over the next five years to deliver an ambitious Housing Investment Programme.  This includes £187.89 million to improve the quality of existing homes through energy efficiency measures such as new windows and doors and replacement heating systems and renewable energy supplies and £128 million to build and buy around 700 additional affordable homes through the Council New Build Programme and the Buy Back Scheme.

In 2024/25 alone,

  • £37.14 million will be spent to improve the current housing stock of around 17,000 homes.
  • £12.6 million to build a range of new homes including wheelchair accessible home and family homes across three key sites at Woodend Farm, Haugh Gardens, Langlees and Oakbank, Polmont
  • £8.5 million to purchase 80 ex local authority homes through the Council’s successful Buy Back Scheme

Council rents 2024/25

Council rents will increase by 5.0% from 1 April for the Council’s 16,200 tenants (an average increase of £3.75 per week, taking average rent to £78.67 per week). More than 60% of all tenants will be fully protected from any increase due to Housing Benefit or Universal Credit Housing Costs.

The Housing Investment Programme and Housing Revenue Account are entirely separate from the Council’s other budgets. Revenue raised by rents and grants can only be reinvested in housing programmes and in no other aspect of Council services.

Councillor Gary Bouse, Spokesperson for Housing said: “Council housing is the cornerstone of our communities and approval of the Housing Investment Programme marks a significant stride towards ensuring quality, energy efficient homes for our tenants.

“With £317 million committed over the next five years, we are not only improving the existing housing stock but also delivering on our promise to provide additional, affordable homes.

“In order to sustain these improvements we have made the decision to increase Council rents by a 5%. This modest increase, averaging £3.75 a week, will contribute directly to the Housing Investment Programme, ensuring our housing stock is energy efficient, comfortable and affordable for our tenants.”

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Thu, 01 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7676
Council agrees to close Bo’ness Recreation Centre and Invest £3m in new school sports and leisure facilities Councillors agree to close Bo’ness Recreation Centre due to condition concerns, backlog in maintenance costs and level of subsidy and, to invest in alternative new facilities. 
 
Falkirk Council this week (31st January) agreed that Bo’ness Recreation Centre be closed in the coming months due to condition concerns. The council procured an independent survey was undertaken as part of the Council’s Strategic Property Review (SPR) and the surveyors reported back that the building was ‘Category D (Bad)’ which is “life expired and/or serious risk of imminent failure; risk of injury”.   
 
The report went on to say that a detailed condition survey identified urgent repair needs, including rewiring and electrical installations, new boilers, and addressing structural issues with the estimated cost for these works exceeding £4m. 
 
The Centre would have needed to be closed or partially closed for a significant time to allow for asbestos to be removed safely while the works were ongoing. 
 
Surveyors identified corroded electrical wiring and cracks in the pool wall, as well as issues with the boilers, lighting and heating plant. The roof was also in very poor condition. 
 
Investment in schools
 
In the report, Council officials recommended that £3m of funding should be invested in ‘community access to sport and leisure facilities at secondary schools’ in the Falkirk Council area including Bo’ness Academy. 
 
It is suggested the additional funding could provide an extension to the school to accommodate new facilities to meet the local demand.  
 
Cllr Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: “We are very much aware of the community’s feelings over the closure of Bo’ness Rec however looking at the facts presented in an independent surveyor’s report simply leaves us with no options here. 
 
“The report has highlighted many issues that we cannot ignore from the perspective of the future safety of our customers and our employees. 
 
“As a Council, we cannot continue to simply spend money when alternatives can be found and in the case of Bo’ness Rec, it would take an investment of at least £4m to simply fix the issues but not see any improvement for our customers.  
 
“What we want to focus on is investment in more suitable locations including Bo’ness that will see better access to sports and leisure facilities that can have decades of a life span unlike Bo’ness Rec which is at the end of its useful life.  
 
“We have asked for a report to be brought back no later than June of this that will outline what can be achieved with the £3m of funding being made available.” 
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Thu, 01 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7678
One of Scotland’s largest transfers of property to the community has been approved in FalkirkImage: Banknock Community Centre - already at advanced stage of Community Asset Transfer

One of Scotland’s largest transfers of property to the community has been approved at a meeting of Falkirk Council today (1 February). 

A total of 32 properties have been recommended for Community Asset Transfer where community representatives take over the running of the property. 

As part of the SPR process, £3m has been made available to improve the facilities for things such as new boilers, upgraded roofs and solar panels to help the community operate the buildings more efficiently in the future. 

Interest has been submitted for properties including the Polmont Ski Centre, as well as 17 Community Centres such as Bowhouse Community Hall, Limerigg Community Hall, and Banknock Community Centre. Falkirk Council is keen to support our Communities to progress with Community Asset Transfer and we urge groups interested to come forward now.  

Grangemouth Sports Stadium is recommended for an Alternative Delivery Model and there is interest from regional sports body. A separate marketing exercise will also be undertaken to identify any commercial operator interests. 

In addition, groups have stepped forward to look at pavilions such as Inchyra Road, while the Muiravonside Country Park Cafe, and the Callendar Park Kiosk and WC now have commercial operators. 

Members heard that the Stenhousemuir Gym is being given an extra year to evidence it can develop a strong business case for retention.  

In a similar vein, the Carron Gymnastics Centre has seen improved financial performance and there is interest from a local group in taking the property on under an Alternative Delivery Model.  

As a result, it is recommended this property is given further time to maximise the opportunity for it being retained in the longer-term.  

A total of 58 properties have not seen any sustained interest and are recommended for closure. This will deliver savings of nearly £1m in 2024/25. In addition, the SPR will reduce the Council’s carbon footprint by approximately 2316 tonnes - approximately 15% of all Council property carbon emissions.  

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, leader of Falkirk Council said: “It is a positive sign that so many community groups came forward to take on these assets. 

“Financial support is accessible to aid these groups, and officers from various Council services are ready to assist them in navigating applications and developing business cases. 

“While the closure of some identified buildings is regrettable, the stark reality is that the Council lacks the funds required for essential repairs.  

“Many of these structures are no longer conducive to modern standards and are operationally inefficient. Significantly, their closure aligns with our commitment to achieving a carbon-zero position for the Council. 

“Streamlining the Council's property portfolio will not only allow for more focused investments but will also prioritise a smaller number of buildings, thereby enhancing their quality and sustainability.” 

 

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Thu, 01 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7679
A9 Closure – Update 10am Tuesday 30 JanuaryThe A9 from Merchiston Roundabout to Mungalhead Roundabout is closed due to flooding and is not safe for vehicles to pass through currently.

A pumping station has failed leading to water buildup and flooding on the road caused by surface water.

Pump maintenance technicians inspected the site yesterday however the sheer volume of water was such that they were unable to carry out the repairs.

Temporary pumping equipment will be installed this morning (Tuesday) to remove the water and allow technicians to properly inspect and fix the problem.

The road will stay closed until fully repaired and the pumping station is fully operational.

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Tue, 30 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7675
Community Choices: Vote for projects to receive funding in your area

Image: Falkirk Golf Club improved accessibility for its members thanks to Community Choices funding

By voting for the projects you want to see happen, you will help community groups secure funds to improve the area in which you live. 

In total 50 projects have made it through to the public vote, the final stage in the Community Choices programme. 

And now it’s over to you!  

If you live in the Falkirk Council area and are aged 16 or above, you can vote for the projects you think will make the biggest difference to the area in which you live. 

You have three votes to cast in favour of projects listed in Small Grants and three votes for those listed in the Place-based Capital Grants programmes. 

You can only vote for Small Grant projects from your ward, but in the Capital Grant category there are four Falkirk-wide projects which are deemed to bring benefit across the whole Council area; everyone can vote for these.

Voting closes on Friday, 23 February. Successful projects will be announced on Friday, 29 March. 

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: “For the fourth time, we are urging local people to support Community Choices by voting for projects that will enhance our local areas.  

“Previous funding rounds have already had a positive impact with 123 groups securing funding. In this round, an estimated £810k is available from the £3.5 originally allocated for capital projects. I encourage everyone to participate and cast their votes, as your support can truly make a real difference.” 

What is Community Choices? 

Community Choices is Falkirk Council’s participatory budgeting programme. Run in partnership with the Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership, the programme aims to encourage communities to develop and vote for projects that will benefit the area in which they live. 

How is Community Choices funded? 

In 2020,?Councillors agreed to create a Community Choices fund that would make c£3m available to community groups to take forward project ideas voted for by local residents. An additional £0.5m of funding was committed in 2023. Since Community Choices officially launched in 2021, 123 projects have secured public funds - and communities are starting to see the benefits.  

What grants are available? 

There are two Community Choices grants.Small Grants for ideas of up to £5k and Place-based Capital grants for capital projects that require more than £5k. 

Who can vote? 

If you live in the Falkirk Council area and are aged 16 or above, you are eligible to vote. 

How do I vote? 

You can either vote online on our consultation platform Participate Plus or fill in a paper ballot. Paper ballots can be picked up from - and returned to – all libraries in the Falkirk Council area. Check your ward online.

How does voting work? 

Anyone that is eligible has three votes they can cast in support of Small Grant projects and another three votes for Place-based Capital. You do not need to use your full allocation of votes for each grant, nor do you need to vote for both grants. 

Can I vote for ideas listed in a ward where I do not live? 

No, your votes count only for projects in your ward or for Falkirk-wide projects (Capital only). 

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Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7674
Review of school pools could generate £400,000 of income and make facilities more efficient Elected members are to consider a proposal to transform the way school pools are operated by Falkirk Council to deliver £400,000 of additional income and make the pools cheaper to operate. 

In early 2023 Council asked officers to review the school pools across Falkirk and identify ways to cut costs, increase income and reduce carbon emissions.  

The proposal to be considered at next week’s Council meeting would see an expansion of the Learn to Swim Scheme which teaches children and adults to be more confident, safer and competent in water – and ultimately save lives.  

It will also look to raise charges for commercial businesses who hire the pools, as well as raise charges for local aquatic clubs to the national average rather than the very low prices they have been paying to date. 

There are further recommendations to streamline operations by adopting a new, standardised pricing structure for all school pools, and more simple booking process.  

And finally, a new project will be taken forward to increase access to school pools at the end of the school day. Currently community access begins at 6pm but given most school activities finish around 4.45pm there is an opportunity to increase the available pool hours for the public. 

The review recognises the critical role swimming plays in the physical, emotional, and mental health of Falkirk communities and so recommends that the price of public swimming is protected. A modest 30p increase is proposed. 

GoCard holders, the council’s concessionary membership scheme, continue to receive free swimming, in all public swimming sessions. GoCard membership is free to join, with no other fees attached to card holders who do not wish to access the Health and Fitness gyms.  

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services said: “Falkirk Council is fortunate to have so many school swimming pools, and this review proposes ways we can maximise those assets to generate income that helps with the operating costs. 

“We all know how much utility bills have risen in recent years, and swimming pools remain very expensive to operate. This review recognises that and seeks to expand our Learn to Swim scheme, increase charges for commercial operators, ask aquatic clubs to pay the national average for hires, and increase access to pools earlier to expand our opportunities for lets. 

“At the same time, we are proposing to protect public swimming with a very low price increase, as well as continue our GoCard concession giving free swimming to those aged 65+, those on welfare support, students, Asylum Seekers, and those who are looked after or under Kinship Care.

“It is now up to Councillors to consider these proposals and determine if they represent the best course of action.” 

You can read the full report here.

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Thu, 25 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7672
Council homes could see significant investment over next five yearsA report outlining proposals for a significant investment in Falkirk Council’s housing stock will be discussed by elected members at next week’s full Council meeting (31 January).

If agreed, £317.176 million will be spent over the next five years to deliver an ambitious Housing Investment Programme.  This includes £187,89 million to improve the quality of existing homes through energy efficiency measures such as new windows and doors and replacement heating systems and renewable energy supplies and £128 million to build and buy around 700 additional affordable homes through the Council New Build Programme and the Buy Back Scheme.

In 2024/25 alone,

  • £37.14m is proposed to improve the current housing stock of around 17,000 homes.
  • £12.6 million to build a range of new homes including wheelchair accessible home and family homes across three key sites at Woodend Farm, Haugh Gardens, Langlees and Oakbank, Polmont
  • £8.5 million to purchase 80 ex local authority homes through the Council’s successful Buy Back Scheme

Council rents 2024/25

Council rents could increase by 5.0% from 1 April for the Council’s 16,200 tenants (or an average of £3.75 per week with an average rent of £78.67 per week). More than 60% of all tenants will be fully protected from any increase due to Housing Benefit or Universal Credit Housing Costs.

The Housing Investment Programme and Housing Revenue Account is entirely separate from the Council’s other budgets. Revenue raised by rents and grants can only be reinvested in housing programmes and in no other aspect of Council services.

Kenny Gillespie, Head of Housing and Communities said: "This report outlines the key priorities for the next five years and proposes significant expenditure to uphold the quality and energy efficiency standards of our housing stock and meet the needs of our tenants.

“It is for elected members to agree the levels of investment and the proposed rent increase at the full council meeting on the 31 January.”

Read the Housing Investment Programme 2024-29 report here

Read the Housing Revenue Account & Council House Rents 2024-25 here

 

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Thu, 25 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7673
Power Outage - Kinnaird. Update 24 January 10:30amLatest statement from GTC regarding the power outage in Kinnaird
 
GTC is currently working to restore supplies to the remaining customers in the Larbert area. Initially, this will be by temporary generation, with an estimated time of restoration of 16:00 today. Further work will then be undertaken to deliver the permanent repair.
 
We are continuing to proactively contact our more vulnerable customers who are listed on our priority services register to provide additional advice and support. 
 
For those still affected, GTC is offering reimbursement for a hotel stay at a reasonable price, as well as £10 per person, with a maximum of £50 per household for a hot meal this evening, and £10 per person, with a maximum of £50 per household for breakfast tomorrow morning. Please ensure you keep all your receipts so GTC can reimburse you accordingly. 
 
We apologise for the inconvenience caused.
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Wed, 24 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7669
Power Outage - Kinnaird. Update 24 January 4:45pmLatest statement from GTC regarding the power outage in Kinnaird

GTC is pleased to announce that we have now restored the electricity supply to all the remaining customers in the Larbert Area by temporary generation. 
 
Further works will continue to be undertaken to deliver the permanent repair, as soon as is practicable.
 
We will notify, by letter, all customers of their eligibility to claim payment from us, now that supply is restored to all customers.  
 
The letter will contain clear guidance on how payment can be claimed.
 
We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused.
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Wed, 24 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7671
Power Outage - Kinnaird. Update 23 January 11amImage: Substation hit by tree

The damage to a GTC substation in the Kinnaird area was caused by a fallen tree hitting an electricity substation that provides power to the local area during Storm Isha.

GTC is currently working on restoring supplies to customers living in the Larbert, FK5 postcode area who have been without electricity since Sunday 21 January.

To safely remove the tree and assess the damage to the substation, GTC needs to isolate supplies to the local area. GTC UK intend to carry out repair work this morning that will disrupt power in the area.

Isolation of supplies will take place today at 10:00 am and supplies are expected to be restored by 16:00 pm. This work may affect up to 1800 properties.

Additional support is being provided for identified vulnerable individuals in the local community.

Schools have been affected and information was communicated to parents/carers last night and this morning.

We have set up a rest centre to support the ongoing disruption caused by a power outage in the Kinnaird area of Larbert.

The rest centre is located at Tryst Community Education Centre, Park Drive, Stenhousemuir, Larbert, FK5 3BB and will provide visitors with hot beverages and a place to charge mobile devices.

The energy network provider will notify households by text, as well as by updating the Live Incident on their website when power is switched off.

 

From GTC:

On the evening of Sunday 21st January, the winds from Storm Isha caused a tree to fall in the postcode area of FK5, Falkirk.  The tree came down on a GTC substation in Larbert and the resulting damage led to 368 homes being without electricity.

GTC is working hard to restore power to the affected homes.  To safely remove the tree and assess the damage to the substation, GTC, unfortunately, needs to isolate the supply to the local area, impacting 1,868 homes.  Isolation of the homes is currently underway. We expect to have the supply restored by 4pm this afternoon.

We understand and appreciate at GTC how difficult this is for residents. To help mitigate the impact, a respite centre, located at the Tyrst Community Education Centre, James Street, Stenhousemuir, Larbert, FK5 3BB, has been set up, in partnership with Falkirk Council and will provide a range of facilities.

You can register as a priority customer here.

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Tue, 23 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7663
Restored lampposts unveiled at Callendar House

Pictured l to r: Dennis Goldie; Billy Buchanan; Jim Johnston; Provost Robert Bissett; Alec Fowler

Four former Provosts and Falkirk’s current Provost came together for a unique event that marks the installation of six former ‘Provost Lamps’ outside Callendar House in Falkirk earlier this month.
 
The ornate lamps were first used by Burgh Councils in the 1880s across Central Scotland and were situated outside the Provost’s home.  
 
As the chief magistrate of the local burgh, a Provost was often required to be contacted at any hour of the day or night and the lamps made them easier to locate. 
 
They acted as an insignia of the office and indicated the honour in which the office-bearer was held.  
 
When no longer in use, six of the lamps were installed outside of the former Municipal Buildings site in West Bridge Street, Falkirk when it was erected in 1966. 
 
As the site was being demolished in 2023, the project team rescued the lampposts, and it was decided to install them outside Callendar House.
 
Provost Robert Bissett explained: “These lampposts are part of our local heritage and were found across the many different communities across the now Falkirk Council area.
 
“It is thought that one even ended up in the United States outside well-known philanthropist Robert Dollar’s home in California.”
 
“It’s great to see them outside Callendar House and definitely adds to the historical heritage of our area.”
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Tue, 23 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7664
Falkirk could see one of Scotland’s largest transfers of property to the community Image: Banknock Community Centre - already at advanced stage of Community Asset Transfer

A total of 25 Council buildings could go on to be given to community groups and clubs across Falkirk as part of the Strategic Property Review (SPR) if Councillors approve plans later this month.

A report to the 31 January Council meeting will recommend that officers progress with a plan to pass on properties the Council no longer requires to groups interested in taking them on.

Millions of pounds are available to improve the facilities for things such as new boilers, upgraded roofs and solar panels to help the community operate the buildings more efficiently in the future.

Interest has been submitted for properties including the Grangemouth Stadium, Polmont Ski Centre, as well as 14 Community Centres such as Bowhouse Community Hall, Limerigg Community Hall, and Banknock Community Centre.

In addition, groups have stepped forward to look at pavilions such as Inchyra Road, while the Muiravonside Country Park Cafe, and the Callendar Park Kiosk and WC now have commercial operators.

In further positive news, it is suggested the Stenhousemuir Gym is given an extra year to prove it can develop a strong business case for retention.

In a similar vein, the Carron Gymnastics Centre has seen improved financial performance and there is interest from a local group in taking the property on.

As a result, it is recommended this property is given further time to maximise the opportunity for it to be retained in the longer term.

A total of 64 properties have not seen any sustained interest and are recommended for closure. This would deliver savings of nearly £1m in 2024/25. In addition, the SPR will reduce the Council’s carbon footprint by approximately 2316 tonnes - approximately 15% of all Council property carbon emissions.

It would also avoid the Council from having to invest millions of pounds in backlog maintenance in properties that are no longer critical. The most significant of these is probably the Bonnybridge Community Centre which requires more than £1m of repairs to remain operational.

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services, said: “It is really positive to see how community and sports groups have come forward to show interest in taking on Council buildings across the Falkirk area.

“It is still early days but transfers of this scale would be as large as anything seen across Scotland, and this just shows how strong our local communities are in Falkirk.

“Funding is available to support the groups, and officers from various Council services are available to assist them with applications and business cases.

“A number of buildings are identified for closure and while that would be a shame the reality is the Council does not have the funding to make the necessary repairs on those properties. In many cases, the buildings are no longer fit for modern service delivery, and are inefficient to operate. Importantly their closure will help us move towards a carbon-zero position for the Council.

“Reducing the number of properties that Council operates from will also allow what investment we do have to go on a smaller number of buildings including schools which should improve their quality and sustainability.

“It is now up to elected members to decide if this is the right approach to take for the future of the Falkirk area.”

You can read the full report here

 

 

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Tue, 23 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTpressoffice@falkirk.gov.ukhttp://www.falkirk.gov.uk/news/article.aspx?aid=7665