ÓûÂþɬ

More than 800 affordable new homes are in the pipeline for construction over the next three years as part of the council’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP). These homes are in addition to the 91 expected to be completed in 2018/19 and 75 completed in 2017/18. The updated SHIP proposals will be presented to the Scottish Government, outlining the council’s strategic investment in affordable homes over a five-year period up to 2023/24.

Tha stiùireadhionmhasail èifeachdach ga chur an sàs taobh a-staigh Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheal is Bhòid le pròiseas nam buidseatan a’ cur cuideam air prìomh amasan na Comhairle. ’S e sin aon de na toraidhean a chithear san Aithisg Sgrùdaidh Bhliadhnail airson 2017/18 a rinn Sgrùdadh na h-Alba agus a chaidh a chur air beulaibh na làn Chomhairle air Diardaoin 29 Samhain. Cuideachd san aithisg thugadh iomradh air na leanas:

Financial management within ÓûÂþɬ Council is effective with a budget process focussed on the council’s priorities. That was one of the findings of the 2017/18 Annual Audit Report undertaken by Audit Scotland which went before the full council on Thursday 29 November.  The report further noted that: The council has appropriate governance and accountability arrangements in place that support the scrutiny of its decisions;

An ÓûÂþɬ Council worker has scooped a prestigious award for her work to combat the problem of empty homes. Empty Homes Officer Kelly Ferns has been named Outstanding Individual at the Howdens Scottish Empty Homes Champions of the Year Awards for her commitment and dedication to empty homes work. Her collaborative approach and passion as well as consistent results were recognised by the panel.

ÓûÂþɬ Council’s education service has made significant improvements over the last 12 months, and staff are working hard to continue to raise attainment in schools. These were the findings of HM Inspectors of Education (HMIE) in a report published today (Monday), following their visit to the local authority last month, which confirmed that they will make no more visits to the Council in connection with the inspection of the Council as Education Authority in September 2016.

Join us in Oban for the latest in our programme of events across the country. Since May this year the organisations behind the Local Governance Review have been encouraging community groups to hold Democracy Matters conversations across the country. The ideas generated through these conversations are being gathered and will ensure that the outcomes of the review focus on what local people have identified.

A fantastic development opportunity is available in Campbeltown at the former council offices at Witchburn Road. This beautiful building, close to the town centre, enjoys a views towards Ben Gullion. It requires some renovation but has the potential for a characterful renovation to either residential or commercial use, subject to permissions. The building offers over 187 m2 of space across two floors of this handsome stone building.

Rosneath Primary School is setting a leading example when it comes to creating links with the local community.   Head teacher Emma McDiarmid and Gregor Morrison, who is currently Acting Head at the school, have been working hard to build a strong community spirit, and engage parents and carers in their children’s learning.  

At the start of our fostering campaign we heard from one of our foster families about what life is like looking after a child in care. This week we’re finding out what it’s like working on the other side - the ones who support foster carers and young people.  

ÓûÂþɬ Council has welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment to identify a permanent solution that will bring an end to disruption on the A83 Rest and Be Thankful, in addition to the current mitigation measures. Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, Michael Matheson, made the commitment at the A83 Taskforce meeting in Inveraray today (Thursday, November 15).