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¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ has re-affirmed its long-term commitment to tackling the climate emergency and achieving its ambitious net zero emissions targets. The latest version of the council’s Decarbonisation Plan has been approved and sets out its three-year strategy for tackling the threat of climate change and achieving net zero emissions across ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ and Bute.

Council services will be encouraged to reduce their use of Single Use Plastic (SUP) products and changes have been made to procedures to encourage alternative options to be explored. The council’s Climate Change Board made this recommendation in September and it was confirmed today (9 December) by the Policy and Resources Committee. This is a significant step because members of the public regularly highlight SUPs as one of their main environmental concerns.

¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ has published an updated procurement strategy and policy which offers guidance and support for businesses bidding to work with the Council.   The Procurement Strategy and Sustainable Procurement Policy 2022-25 provides information for local organisations and businesses, outlining how the council will acquire the goods and services it needs over the next three years.  

The new Lismore ferry is expected to arrive at Port Appin this month and be ready to serve the community once the Passenger Safety Certificate is issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. Once sea trials and final checks have been completed successfully, the vessel should depart Pembroke on 13 December to begin its 302 nautical mile journey to its destination. This is heavily dependent on suitable weather conditions at the time. Until it is ready for service, the current ferry will remain in operation.

¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ have launched a website () which explains changes it is proposing to the way schools in ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ and Bute are led.The website invites parents, carers and residents in ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ and Bute to examine the proposals, understand them and have their say. Schools in ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ and Bute face falling pupil numbers and challenges in recruiting staff. Scotland-wide education reform is on the way and it is vital that local school leaders are ready and resourced appropriately.

Members of the public will be asked for views on proposals on where to position future electric vehicle chargers in ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ and Bute, through a consultation in the New Year. The Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee approved the proposed list today (2 December) which has been developed following a seminar with elected members in September.

¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ is prepared to be the Harbour Authority for the unmanaged section of Oban Bay. ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ and Bute Harbour Board took the decision at today’s meeting (2 December). This was one of options outlined in an independent report by Caledonian Economics, which addressed safety concerns in the bay and outlined how to move to a Statutory Harbour Authority (SHA) within the shortest timeframe.

Do you fancy an exciting career change? ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ is running a campaign to recruit new childminders, particularly on the Isle of Bute and in the Mid ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ area where there is a particular shortage. The Council’s Early Years Team will help guide interested parties through the whole process, from the initial enquiry right through to registering with the Care Inspectorate. Financial assistance is also available to purchase a range of equipment, such as pushchairs and stairgates, and to make small home adaptations.

There is just one week left to apply for a proxy vote if you live in the Lomond North ward, want to vote in the upcoming by-election but can’t get to the polling station in person. A proxy vote is where you appoint someone to attend at the polling station and cast your vote on your behalf. You can download a proxy voting application form from Voting in the Scotland by-elections | Electoral Commission or by calling 0800 980 0470 to ask for a form.

Community projects across ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ and Bute continue to benefit from the Council’s Supporting Communities Fund. From youth groups to community woodlands, swimming clubs to community transport, the Council is helping a range of initiatives, providing vital lifelines and services in the area.    The 2022/2023 Supporting Communities Fund is now open for applications.  If you are a not-for-profit organisation, apply to the Fund and you could be eligible for potentially up to £2,500 to help projects happening in your community.