Freedom of Information

How the publication scheme is structured

The scheme is divided into 12 general categories [listed below]. These general categories are then further divided into sub-categories that lead onto the list of classes of information that the Council is committed to routinely publish. A 'class' is basically a group of documents relating to the same subject matter. Each class describes the type of information, the format in which it is available, an indication of any charge that may apply, contact details and a web address [if applicable]. The term 'publication' is not limited to information contained in a bound or printed form, but can relate to information in any format, such as web-based information or a video cassette.

The scheme is subject to the approval of the Scottish Information Commissioner [SIC] and will be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that the content and structure of the scheme reflect the types of information in which there is a clear public interest.

  • Business
  • Community and living
  • Council and democracy
  • Education and learning
  • Environment
  • Health and social care
  • Housing
  • Jobs and careers
  • Legal services
  • Leisure and culture
  • Policing and public safety
  • Transport and streets

For ease of reference, the general categories, sub-categories and classes of information included in the scheme are subject based rather than organised to reflect the departmental structure of the Council; based on the LAWS Government Categories List. The aim of this layout is to make it easier to locate relevant information without having to have knowledge of the Council's structure.

How the scheme was formulated

In formulating the scheme, the Council has undertaken an information audit to review relevant information that can be included in the scheme, such as leaflets, policy documents, information on the Council's web site etc. The Council also considered most frequently asked questions, reviewed the types of enquiries received by departments and invited views through the Council's web site. Due regard has also been given to the guidance issued by the SIC under Section 43(2) of the FOI Act and discussions that have taken place at a national level under the auspices of the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, Society of Local Authority Lawyers and Administrators in Scotland, and the Archivists of Scottish Local Authorities Working Group.

What information is covered by this scheme?

This scheme only covers information created by South Ayrshire Council. However, the Council is involved in a number of working partnership arrangements with other organisations. In such instances, the Council may not be the only author of the document.

Unless otherwise stated, all information listed within the scheme relates to the current version. As information becomes redundant or is superseded it will be replaced or removed from the scheme.

If the information you require is not current and does not appear elsewhere in this publication scheme, it may be available from the Council's Archive Service, details listed below. While inspection of historical information is free, there may be a charge for providing you with photocopies of a document, currently 40 pence an A4 sheet. In addition, some remote enquiries may involve a flat-rate research fee of £15.50 (non-commercial enquiries) and £60.69 (commercial enquiries).

Alison Nelson
Senior Administration Officer
Department of Development, Safety and Regulation
South Ayrshire Council
County Buildings
Wellington Square
Ayr
KA7 1DR
Tel: 01292 612462
Email: foi@south-ayrshire.gov.uk