QUESTIONS have been raised about whether councillors will be involved in the decision-making process on the Clachan Bridge near Oban.
Argyll and Bute Council paused plans for traffic lights on the bridge in June, and recently announced that it will carry out a traffic survey at both ends, with a road safety audit also planned.
Recent improvement works at Oban’s Mossfield Stadium were also discussed at a meeting of local councillors, including the cost of the work.
The council’s Oban Lorn and the Isles area committee met on Wednesday, September 9.
Councillor Julie McKenzie (Independent, Oban North and Lorn) said: “You mentioned the Clachan Bridge situation. I am receiving questions in the community about where the decision-making will sit once the options appraisal is complete.
“Will the decision be made by elected members, by a committee, by officers or a delegated authority?”
Tom Murphy, the council’s operations manager, said: “I am not too sure, but I would imagine there will be full member engagement. I can get answers and will feed them back.”
Councillor Kieron Green (Independent, Oban North and Lorn) said: “The information we had previously at the area committee was that there would be involvement prior to making a decision, but there was not any commitment made to members having a decision-making role.”
Councillor Amanda Hampsey (Reform UK, Oban South and the Isles) then said: “I am interested in the works at Mossfield Stadium. It was great to see it looking so good in time for the cup final, but I was curious as to which funding pot the money for renovation came from, and what the costs were of the renovation work?”
Mr Murphy responded: “The works were carried out through the central repairs allocation budget in conjunction with property services colleagues. I do not have a figure to date, but I can get it to you.
“We got a full study of the stand which highlighted urgent works that needed to be carried out. I had a full discussion with property services colleagues that I wanted the stand available for the high-profile fixtures.”
