LANGBANK COMMUNITY COUNCIL
NOVEMBER 2025
Wednesday 12th NOVEMBER 2025
LANGBANK COMMUNITY CENTRE, MIDDLEPENNY ROAD @ 7.30pm
Start and welcome
Present: Jacqueline Doherty, Caroline McLean, James Hunter, Mark Ellis, Maggie Hancock, Julie Gilmour, Carly Deheer
Also in Attendance: Cllr James MacLaren, Cllr Colin McCulloch, Jim Small, Iain MacKay, Iain McDougall, Willie Purdue
Apologies: Lesley Fairlie, Caroline Bryce, Donald Linn, Cllr Fiona Airlie -Nicolson
AGM 1930
Acceptance of last AGM minutes held on 13th November 2024
Proposed - Carly Deheer, seconded - Maggie Hancock
CHAIR'S REPORT
This past year the Community Council have continued to try their best to represent the local community and strive to ensure we are represented within the wider Renfrewshire Community.
Jacqueline regularly attended Local Area Partnership meetings and also represented the community at the workshops looking at Community Land Ownership. Carly has attended a number of workshops to help equip the CC in completing a Local Place Plan. There has been a revision of the Renfrewshire Community Council Forum, with John being our representative at these meetings.
The Local Place plan is a substantial piece of work and is ongoing with the first phase of consultation being completed. This will help finalise consultation to wider community. Local place Plan to be completed early 2026.
We have continued to campaign for safety measures at the roundabout – and continue to be frustrated at the lack of progress made with Transport Scotland who don’t seem to grasp the real concerns which villagers have and fear that it will take a fatality before any action is taken. The latest update is that additional measures are now currently being considered, however we await details as to what these measures may be. The CC have put in objections in respect of a couple of planning applications, which were deemed not to be in the best interest of the wider community. Unfortunately the CC does not appear to carry significant weight and planning applications have been approved – the impact on the community has been negative.
The CC continues to work with members of the Village Hall committee to help ensure that this valuable village asset can be well utilised and promoted, to continue to benefit the community. The latest measures of support have been in terms of exploring the installation of a screen on the hall.
The work in conjunction with the Clyde Coastal Path continues to stagnate and it is hoped that 2026 will see a revival of this work, however this will be subject to ongoing support from CCP, RC and IC.
The CC have continued to work collaboratively with the LSR to improve the outdoor spaces around the village, with refurbished picnic benches at the playing fields and some new ‘Merry Christmas lights’ at the MUGA. Permanent signage has now been ordered.
The CC also helped with the organisation of the annual village clean-up day and the tree light switch on. Unfortunately a number of factors impacted the planned Gala Day this year, however we were still able to hold a scaled back village event at the Village Hall, which was a successful event.
New village planters were filled with summer bedding plants. These have been removed and spring bulbs
planted. We are grateful to Phil O’Brien for her help with these.
There was also an interim campaign for CC members and we were delighted to gain 4 new members in October.
A huge blow to the local community was the closure of Langbank Surgery. Objections were raised by the community and the CC. however decision was still taken by Inverclyde HSCP to allow surgery to be closed as it wasn’t a financially viable option.
The CC were all saddened when our former chair, Neil, sadly lost his battle with cancer in August.
As well as well respected and fondly thought of, by the CC, Neil was a valued member of the wider community and continued to help out where he could, until such times as his health no longer allowed this. Jacqueline thanked the committee for their ongoing efforts, in particular Carly for her efforts as secretary and with the Local Place Plan, for assisting with village website and Facebook page. Julie for her efforts as
treasurer and for completion of grants throughout the year.
Julie and Carly have also played an integral role in organising village events. John for representing the CC at Renfrewshire meetings and Iain for assisting with a number issues in the village. Caroline M for her assistance with the completing of the questionnaires
Thanks to everyone that comes along to support the LCC.
TREASURER'S REPORT
Current balance £ 4122
Boosted by Gala day profit – money not spent for village groups, Annual outgoings paid- Website, insurance, annual renewals.
ELECTION OF OFFICE BEARERS
Chair : Jacquline Doherty proposed Julie Gilmour, seconded Carly Deheer Vice-chair John O’Brien proposed Carly Deheer, seconded James Hunter
Secretary Carly Deheer proposed Maggie Hancock, seconded Julie Gilmour Treasurer Julie Gilmour proposed Carly Deheer, Seconded Jacqueline Doherty
AGM closed 1950
NOVEMBER MEETING
Acceptance of last meeting minutes
Proposed - Caroline MacLean - seconded the motion - Jacqueline Doherty.
Actions from previous meeting – Jacqueline has written to RC with community concerns about safety/maintenance of public footpaths, roads and public spaces. (Copy of Map attached)
Cllr McCulloch forwarded this on to Director of service for urgent attention. RC have declined option to meet on site and haven’t requested any supporting video evidence. RC have officers who inspect these public spaces and assess need for maintenance. CC to monitor and follow up should RC fail to take any significant action.
It was also noted in the email that Community are willing to do what they can, however without correct equipment and ability to safely dispose of materials this isn’t easy. RC were asked to consider this option.
Since email sent one of our S4 Park Mains pupils will do some general tidy up and maintenance as part of their Duke of Edinburgh service section – but they will be limited in what they can do
Police Report (if applicable)
No report received this month
ME has previously assisted Brian Wallace with Neighbourhood watch in Langbank, Would the reinstatement of NW be of interest to the village, Agreed that it would be. NW Scotland seem to be more active recently and ME suggested he would be happy to coordinate and would propose to use the Neighbourhood Watch Scotland webpage ALERT resource to communicate and involve villagers. https://neighbourhoodwatchscotland.co.uk/alerts
FACEBOOK page used to communicate the correct channel for reporting, Add relevant details to Church newsletter, FB page and webpage
Village websiteand Facebook updates.
No update
Village Groups Updates
Community Centre IMcD looking for assistance with grant application to LAC, would like to apply for
£ 6000 for screen and another £ 6000 for partial rewire that is required - JG advised she can assist
LSR / MUGA JG will draft an email to LAC for grant funding for Wednesday MUGA activites – one hour a week requires grant for funding, the gate at the back of the MUGA has had a padlock added due to Graffiti incident
DEFIB uninstall from doctor’s surgery, MUGA was thought to be best location. Scotrail have installed at Bishopton Station so suggest we confirm LB isn’t on the list for a station DEFIB – if it is then relocate to church or possibly COAST
Church redevelopment
Manse is up for sale £ 299 K, volunteers will access viewing
GW has prepared plans for redevelopment, costings finalized and all the information collated is submitted to the presbytery. Wider village support will be required. It is hoped that a percentage of the sale of manse should be part of the development funding
Church would appreciate letter of support for their proposed redevelopment plans, JD to provide on behalf of CC.
Winter Connections Grant
Need to agree on activities – so far suggested include:
Church, Christmas themed Soup and Sandwich lunch on Wednesday 12th December. To provide hot drink and snack for ongoing winter activities at MUGA.
Santa and North Pole crew visit to village.
Family fun night in Village Hall CB will look at first aid training activity
5. Planning
Local Place Plan
Currently working thru the engagement phase, distribution hardcopy and digitally of questionnaire for completion. All households in the area will have hardcopy delivered, post boxes around the village for return of completed. JD and CD to meet with planning consultant PLACE AT THE TABLE to discuss professional assistance available and will investigate funding https://www1.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/8667/Local-Place-Plans
Grit Bin Provision
Due to outcry from residents Renfrewshire wide, this plan has now been paused and any grit bins which have been removed will be reinstated.
Glasgow airport airspace consultation
Due consideration needs to be given to the Glasgow Airport airspace modernisation proposals,
From Monday 20 October 2025 to Sunday 25 January 2026, consultation on these proposed changes takes place
https://scottishairspacemodernisation.co.uk/
HOUSTON ROAD, a couple of local residents would like to highlight multiple violations of the planning permission granted for the development of a property on Houston Road. It would seem that the owners are making major changes to the plans submitted, there has also been issues for neighbouring properties of unsocial behaviours and effluent from damaged septic tank. The violations of the panning permission have been reported to RC and the residents have requested a RC planning representative. RC officers have refused to come to site with concerned neighbour
The owners that are developing the property also own other properties in village and have used the retrospective planning application route when developing these other properties
JD suggested emailing RC to invite an officer along to speak at our meeting about planning process and JMcL suggested addressing email to David Love.
Septic Tank issues should be reported to and dealt with by SEPA
6. Transport Concerns A8 roundabout Speeding
2 accidents in a week at roundabout, another 2 on A8 at Marypark due to flooding running across the A8 – MH advised that there is a gully AMEY need to keep clear further up the hill
It was mentioned that there were in fact a number of deaths prior to the building of the roundabout, JH – witnessed cars travelling along Main Road faster than the dual carriageway.
Mentions INVERCLYDE community roadwatch – is the speeding issue countrywide JMacL suggested that we can request that Police Speedcheck on the Main Road
20MPH activites and traffic calming in BoW, Bishopton currently, Langbank will be in the next consultation
Lack of public transport - ongoing issue – reflected in LPP
Local Cllr updates and monthly reports
Cllr C McCulloch. 11 November 2025 BELOW
Langbank November CC Report from Councillor James MacLaren
Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson report November 25 BELOW
AOB
BELOW
COAST 2 drains once cleared are running slowly – WP noted that water was actually running out of the electric supply box to the east of COAST on a couple of occasions during times of flooding, contractor out to fix was working on Station Road box, flooded COAST box identified as an issue
WP highlighted the moving of leaf litter from one area to another on Main road pavement, advised RC JS – Dennistoun Road leaf clearing request and advised that light from R10 lampost covered by bushes
RC projected number of pupils in phase 1 of the projection is less region wide. This information needs to communicated better to the wider community
Jacqueline to meet with Gordon Russell from CCP on Tuesday 18th to discuss continued working with that group.
Village Christmas Sing – along and Tree Light up Sunday 23rd November at 6pm. Langbank Primary Choir and Langbank Singers will perform.
Festive refreshments before light switch on at 7pm.
School had a P7 poster competition to choose pupil to assist with switch on. Suggestion for adult? Defib unit at doctor’s surgery has now been disconnected. This should still work for a period, however new site, with electric hook up needs to be identified asap. MUGA still viable option but separate electric cable required as cannot be connected into light supply. Would need to be accessible to all and therefore sited on one of huts not appropriate. Caroline B has offered to explore grant funding.
Next LAP this Thursday - Jacqueline to attend
Cllr C McCulloch. 11 November 2025 Health services
My motion at the recent meeting of Renfrewshire Council called upon Langbank to be moved by Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board to the responsibility to Renfrewshire HSCP. Council agreed to this (with an addition from Cllr MacLaren) and has written to the HSCP what measures can be taken to improve local healthcare provision in Langbank.
Housing
At the recent meeting of the Communities and Housing Board, elected members received an update on the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, with the final version agreed with plans for affordable (social) housing in Bishopton (Dargavel) progressing as in the draft plan.
Houston CC gave a detailed and thoughtful contribution to the SHIP, arguing for more sites for smaller homes for sale to allow homeowners in larger properties more chance to downsize. I would encourage all community councils to similarly participate where they can.
The C&H Board also updated again on pressure on homelessness services, which are well-publicised nationally. Due to ongoing cost of living crisis, demand for social housing in Renfrewshire is at record levels, but Renfrewshire homelessness services are performing well amongst their peer group. The Council is awaiting guidance from the Scottish Government on how to proceed with actions outlined in the recently announced Housing Emergency Action Plan.
Roads
The recent wet weather has seen many drains and gullies become blocked by excessive water and leaves. I have reported what I’ve seen in the area and would encourage others to do the same so that these can be unblocked asap.
I have asked for greater Warden presence in Langbank to clamp down on inappropriate pavement parking and parking on double yellow lines throughout the village, but particularly in the area around Coast.
There have been a number of road traffic accidents in the area of A8 / M8 lately near Langbank. I have raised these matters with Transport Scotland have asked Alison Taylor MP to speak directly to senior figures to see if road safety measures can be brought forward asap.
I asked Renfrewshire Council officers to attend a walkabout with local Councillors and community representatives to look at areas of concern regarding roads and pavements. They declined this offer but offered assurances that all areas are inspected on a regular basis.
Schooling
The proposed extension to Park Mains HS has brought a lot of correspondence to my inbox. I have raised concerns with the Education Department that they are failing to prevent future errors by not committing to a full options appraisal, which could impact on the schooling experience for all pupils who will attend PMHS.
Bins
The last few weeks have seen bin servicing delayed in most areas of Ward 11. I am trying to establish the reasons why this increasingly occurring, as it used to be a rare event.
Other
Flags have been erected without permission on lampposts throughout Renfrewshire. The Council will remove these in due course but in Renfrewshire and beyond council workers and contractors have faced threats of violence when removing unauthorised flags. This will delay works to remove these while a solution is sought.
The Council had proposed to rationalise the number of grit bins in the area by reducing the number of small bins and replacing them with fewer but much larger ‘community’ bins, but this change has been postponed until next year pending a more in-depth review and consultation, and any bins removed will be reinstated shortly. Nevertheless, I have concerns about this plan, as it would be difficult for many people who live on higher or uneven ground to access these bins in the event of unexpected cold weather.
Langbank November CC Report from Councillor James MacLaren
Roads
Removal Of Grit Bins: - Roads proposed to remove 9 grit bins from the village and introduce 4 community grit bins. This has not gone down well as there had been no consultation. Thankfully this has been put on hold pending a review next year.
Blocked Gullies, Station Rd: - I requested gullies be cleared on Station Rd and particularly the one at the junction with Elmbank Rd which is blocked with gravel washed into it from the recent resurfacing on Station Rd.
Flooding
West Benview, Main Road: - Roads are not aware of any apparatus running under the railway here but have asked that the dayshift have a look.
Main Rd at Coast: - The gullies have been cleaned and the road swept.
Traffic Calming: - I requested new signage on Main Rd at the MUGA and this is now in place. This is along the same lines as the signage on Middlepenny Rd outside the playpark.
A8 Roundabout: - Transport Scotland Amey are looking at design-development and buildability for the options on the at A8. Amey will share their findings with Transport Scotland to determine which option should be taken forward. They will then organise a presentation with stakeholders to share the design by the end of 2025.
Street Nameplate: - The Street nameplate for Houston Rd/Main Rd has finally been replaced.
Temporary Road Closure, Station Road: - This is for overnight working from Main Road to 1 Station Road. This notice will be in force from 22:00 Sunday 07th December 2025 to 06:00 Monday 08th December 2025. Closure Reason: Network Rail Bridge Inspection.
Temporary Road Closure, Station Road: - This is from Old Greenock Road to 28 Station Road. This notice will be in force during 09:30 – 15:30 on Tuesday 13th January 2026. Closure
Reason: Openreach Works.
Broken Wall, Station Rd: - Council are looking to rebuild or may look at a partial demolition of the wall to make safe, if budget dictates. Roads will get prices to rebuild and one to partially demolish to make safe. I have stressed that I want a full rebuild.
20 mph Zones: - Roads are currently in discussion with a prospective consultant regarding the next steps of the 20-mph restriction. Subject to funding, Roads anticipate consultation / engagement activities for this to commence next calendar year.
Streetlighting
Main Rd: - The street lamp R53 is close to the road but council say that they are not prepared to move it. I had suggested it be moved back from the road.
Lighting in Station Rd Park: - I requested the council upgrade the top path with lighting as there may be ducting already in place and would create a safe walking route to the school, but I got a reply back to say that there are no plans for lighting installation here. The budget is being prioritised to replacing existing street lighting.
Press Coverage
I recently had press comment on the following: - Park Main HS Extension
Park Main HS Pupil Predictions
Overgrown Vegetation, Station Rd
Cutting back of overgrowth including ivy has been added to the winter work schedule. I requested this be done ASAP.
My Bus, Doctors Surgery, Kilmacolm
Journeys from Langbank to Kilmacolm would be possible if registered with the R965 My Bus service which operates within this area. Users require to complete an application form. https://www.spt.co.uk/travel-with-spt/bus/mybus
Planning
Application Ref. 25/0719/PP: - This application for the installation of groundworks to create an area of hardstanding for parking and golf club maintenance (in retrospect) at Gleddoch Golf & Spa Resort is causing local residents to be concerned. I did request that this be determined by the Board but it will be determined under delegated powers.
Park Main HS Extension: - This was determined by the Planning & Climate Change Board on 4th November and granted.
Network Rail/ScotRail
Photographs were passed to me about Network Rail contractors blowing leaves out onto Station Rd. This is unacceptable behaviour and I suggested Roads charge NR for a sweeper to come out. A complaint was also logged with ScotRail.
Dog Fouling Awareness Raising Campaign
Council have been working on the web content relating to dog fouling, making this easier for the public when reporting incidents (including the ability to upload photos) and to request No Fouling Signage in areas affected by this issue. www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/dogfouling .
Japanese Knotweed
Treatment is continuing in Station Rd Park, however, more has been seen in the park and this will also be treated.
12/11/25
Feedback From Meeting
Westferry Streetlights: - These lights have now been repaired and are working.
Blocked Gullies: - The gullies outside Coast are blocked again. The flooding was deep yesterday and Sunday. I will request this be cleared.
Dennistoun Rd: -
Sweeping: - The leaves need to be swept. Last year they were blown into the gardens. This is not acceptable and I will let the council know this when I request sweeping.
Streetlight: - The light R10 is hidden by tree branches. I will request this gets cut back.
Undergrowth: - The undergrowth at the side of the road is restricting the width of the carriageway. I will request again that it gets cut back.
Station Rd: - The leaves were recently swept onto the road from the pavement. This is not acceptable as it will simply block the gullies. They need to be collected up. I will make this point and request sweeping again.
Please email me with your updates and requests as I cannot guarantee to see your comments on Facebook. Likes are always welcome. You can subscribe to receive a copy of my monthly report, just request this by email.
My Langbank Surgery is held in the church on the first Monday of the month at 6.30pm.
Councillor James W.H. MacLaren, Conservative & Unionist Party, Ward 11, Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank Tel. 03003001291 Email cllr.james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk www.facebook.com/councillormaclaren
Langbank Community Council
Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson report November 25
Grit bin Review-
At a recent council meeting the changes to the grit bins has been postponed until a report is presented next year. All the larger community grit bins should remain in place along with the smaller ones for community use. Officers had started making changes before any review was fully completed including consulting with various community groups.
Spotless September 2025 –
Brought together many schools, local residents, and businesses to local litter picking events in their neighbourhoods. Over the course of the month in Renfrewshire 322 litter picks were undertaken, with 1,219 volunteers, including over 500 young people from schools, guides and Scouts. Young volunteers helped improve the appeal of local spaces while learning about the negative impact of litter in their communities, to local wildlife, and on the planet.
The campaign’s online Facebook platform now connects with more than 8,500 active community members, with membership and engagement continuing to grow each week. This campaign has had a great success and goes someway to combatting the small minority who still seem to believe its ok to drop litter and discard rubbish particularly from cars.
Village traffic calming measures
The Council are progressing the design and implementation of the villages traffic calming projects. Phase 1 Work is ongoing to implement the statutory 20mph speed limit on all residential Renfrewshire streets where it is appropriate - and the Concept phase is now complete.
The next stage to work towards the implementation of the statutory 20mph speed limit will be to prepare temporary traffic order for implementation on-street next year.
Performance will be monitored for a year before the production of permanent order. Concept designs agreed as part of phase 2 of the villages traffic calming projects with detailed designs will be compiled. Preparation has already begun in terms of Investigations in Langbank. The Community Councils input will be a key component in any plans.
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GREEN HIGHLIGHTED AREAS – JD IDENTIFIED HAZARDOUS