Colinsburgh and Kilconquhar Community Council
Held at Kilconquhar Church Hall at 7:30 pm
Present: Alison Boyle, John Lidderdale, Orla Campbell, Mac Logan, Katy Craig, and 8 members of the public.
Apologies: Trish Finlay, Cllr Sean Dillon, Cllr Fiona Corps, Cllr Alicia Hayes
1. Previous Minutes – 11 March 2025
1.1 The anonymous letter concerning bullying behaviour was not posted on the website as previously stated. The letter was read aloud at the meeting, along with CKCC’s Code of Conduct. The Chair reminded people that unhelpful behaviour is not acceptable. There was a discussion about the status of anonymous complaints.
1.2 Following the meeting, a member of the public apologised for their behaviour towards committee members. They had been unaware of the impact of their words and on other members of the public.
1.3 A member of the public stated they had not received the community survey. After noting that the surveys were hand-delivered, it was agreed that the survey would be uploaded to the website.
2. Matters Arising
2.1 12 responses had been received so far for the community space survey.
2.2 There are ongoing discussions about improving car parking on Meadow Road, particularly to avoid blockages by bin lorries. No final decision has been made.
2.3 The planning dispute is currently being handled by Cllr Alicia Hayes.
2.4 The welcome pamphlet for the new builds in Colinsburgh is being prepared by Cara.
2.5 The logo competition winner will be decided at the next meeting.
2.6 A member of the public raised questions regarding the complaints procedures.
2.7 The public has requested that CKCC develop its website and information available, including a “Get to Know the Community Council” section.
3. Reports
3.1 Chair’s Report—not provided due to Chair’s absence.
3.2 Treasurer’s Report—The treasurer continues to face difficulties in progressing tasks due to delays in changing over bank signatories. The balance remains the same.
3.3 Councillors’ Reports—No councillors were present at this meeting.
4. Any Other Competent Business (AOCB)
4.1 Community Survey. A member of the public suggested assigning a starting number to survey forms to allow for better statistical analysis. It was clarified that the survey is intended as a tool to gather opinions and spark discussion, and multiple rounds of surveys may follow.
4.2 Unwelcome and bullying behaviour. Concerns were raised that some Kilconquhar residents have felt discouraged or scared off from attending meetings due to unwelcome behaviour. Such behaviour may impact progress with the community space project and other plans. It was agreed that people who behave inappropriately or disruptively should be challenged and asked to behave with civility.
4.3 Misinformation. There was discussion about misinformation being circulated (e.g. rumours that a building had already been purchased and a planning application submitted).
4.4 Enhanced Communication. CKCC responds to community interests and concerns. Clear minutes are useful, as is community attendance at meetings to raise concerns, support thinking and engage in discussions. CKCC aims to communicate effectively and welcomes feedback from all community members and other partners.
4.5 Traffic Management
4.5.1 Resurfacing is planned for the main road through Colinsburgh.
4.5.2 A damaged sign on North Wind has been reported.
4.5.3 Plans are in place for 40mph buffer zones on either side of Colinsburgh; councillors are asked to provide comments and updates.
4.5.4 It was noted that the present routing of traffic through Colinsburgh on the B942 instead of via the A917 via Elie is being reported as under review by Fife Council. Some people feel that influential people in Elie were able to influence the initial decision.
4.5.6 Fife Council contact, Nigel (last name?), is reviewing requests for new speed surveys and signage in the village. Comments were made that many traffic issues stem from driver behaviour rather than road layout.
4.5.7 The need for a flashing sign at the bottom of Balbuthie Road was raised again.
4.5.8 A convex mirror at the Meadow Road/St Andrews Road junction was discussed. A previous objection to this development had caused funding for this to be withdrawn.
4.5.9 The fact that a single objection to a widely supported action could apparently stop funding for useful developments needs clarification.
4.6 Broadband Cllr Alicia Hayes is overseeing this issue. Identifying and logging specific addresses where broadband coverage needs fixing will support further action.
5. Next Steps
5.1 Highlight households that have not received the survey. Make it available via CKCC website and noticeboards.
5.2 Continue to improve the quality and availability of CKCC communications.