Council Moves to Address Brexit Threat to Seafood Exports Welcomed

Aberdeenshire Council has agreed to vary the fees on export health certificates for food producers when they begin exporting to the EU from January 1, 2021.

The greatest volume of both processed and unprocessed food exports from Aberdeenshire is to the European Economic Area. With the end of the EU Transition Deal expected to occur on January 1, the United Kingdom will be considered by Europe as a third country for trade, irrespective of the outcome of ongoing negotiations to agree a Free Trade Agreement.

That will mean businesses exporting animal products to the EU in these circumstances will need to apply for an export health certificate (EHC) in order to clear border controls.

An EHC confirms that exports meet the health requirements of the destination country. The council is providing advice and support to the business sector as the UK nears the end of the EU transition period.

Yesterday (Thursday), the council’s Infrastructure Services Committee agreed that EHC fees may need to be reduced for export certificates to the EU and Northern Ireland to support the North-east fishing industry.

Councillors were told it was anticipated that up to 1,000 export health certificates may have to be issued in Aberdeenshire each week.

The committee also heard that the Scottish Government has requested that Food Standards Scotland take on the responsibility of coordinating national logistics hubs to relieve the burden on local authorities.

These hubs would provide the necessary staffing resources to issue EHCs - located in transportation hubs in central Scotland - and would relieve some of the pressure on Aberdeenshire Council officials.

Commenting, SNP spokesperson on Infrastructure Services Cllr David Aitchison said:

“The need for our high-quality seafood to reach markets in France, Spain, Italy, etc within short timescales is crucial. Any delays in the supply chain are potentially devastating. While it is clear that the council, COSLA and Scottish Government are doing everything in their power to address the challenges faced by the North-East seafood sector, the UK's exit from the EU and failure to reach an exit deal continues to cause huge uncertainty for these exports.

“Aberdeenshire Council’s role in Export Health Certification requires significant resourcing and I welcome the First Minister's confirmation that resources would be made available for greater resourcing for environmental health to the tune of £1.2million this year and £1.9million next year."

Head of Economic Development and Protective Services, Belinda Miller, said afterwards:

“We do, however, anticipate that several North-east fish processing companies, especially the larger ones, who do not use transportation hubs or need to share loads will still expect the council to provide them with EHCs. Our Environmental Health teams are looking into the option of creating a trial base in Peterhead Fish Market which would enable us to issue EHCs 12 hours-a-day, six days-a-week.”

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Opposition Councillors Comment on £2.7 million Town Centre Improvement Projects Approval

Commenting on the approval of the first £2.7 million of grants for town centre improvement projects within Aberdeenshire from a multimillion pound Scottish Government fund set up as part of this year’s budget settlement, Opposition Spokesperson for Infrastructure Services, Cllr David Aitchison (SNP – Westhill & District) said:

“This is an important milestone. With a total £3.28 million allocation out of a £50m pot nationwide, Aberdeenshire has received a significantly above population share of this Scottish Government fund, of which only a portion has been approved today.

“The investment that this will unlock has the potential to make a lasting difference to our local town centres. It’s important that we now make progress on these projects and in identifying the best use of the remaining funds available to us.”

Cllr Alison Evison (Labour - North Kincardine) said:

“This money gives an opportunity to invest in town centres across the whole of Aberdeenshire and to support their economic development. It shows the importance of communities coming together to set out a vision for their area, so that they are ready with ideas should money becomes available.”

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Council's Vehicle Fleet Goes Hi-Tech to Save Money and Reduce CO2

Following the introduction of a ‘Carbon Budget’ by the SNP/Labour Aberdeenshire Partnership administration in 2017, councillors were today briefed on the introduction of telematics to the council’s vehicle fleet.

As part of the SNP/Labour Aberdeenshire Partnership’s commitment to climate change mitigation, the first Carbon Budget was set for 2017/18. The new approach, approved at full council in February 2017, encourages the whole council to fundamentally consider how it is run and the resulting carbon implications. Aberdeenshire was the first local authority in Scotland to implement such a budget.

In the latest development, fleet vehicles used across Aberdeenshire Council are being installed with telematics to help save money and benefit the environment. The system is web-based, using GPS satellite positioning data and the mobile data network.

Following the successful use of such systems in other large organisations, including councils, it is also intended to promote safe and efficient driving and working practices. It can also help protect lone workers, reduce vehicle running costs and help to quickly ascertain the facts of any accident or incident.

It is hoped it may even allow the reduction of the council’s fleet in future, through the improved use of vehicles, which would also mean significant savings.

Commenting, Infrastructure Services spokesperson for the SNP/Labour Aberdeenshire Partnership Cllr David Aitchison said:

“We were proud to be the first council administration in the country to introduce a Carbon Budget. As well as aiming to be more environmentally-friendly, another major benefit is that many of the measures introduced as a result of the need to reduce emissions have the potential to save the council-taxpayer huge sums of money.

“For example, it is estimated that installing telematics in council vehicles could save between £190,000 and £275,000 each year on fuel through better fleet management resulting from the data generated by each vehicle.

“I’m delighted that the current council administration is carrying on the work the SNP/Labour Partnership started on reducing emissions and saving energy.”

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Study on Insch Station Access Gets Funding Green Light

A proposal to look at options for improving access at Insch Station has been given a funding award from Transport Scotland’s Local Rail Development Fund.

Currently, access to the west-bound platform is available only via a traditional overbridge, meaning passengers with mobility difficulties need to book assistance in advance. There are land constraints affecting possible solutions and the finding is to assist in identifying options.

Infrastructure Services spokesperson for the Aberdeenshire Partnership, Cllr David Aitchison (SNP-Westhill & District) said:

“The confirmation that the application for funding has been successful is very good news indeed.

“I wrote to the Scottish Government backing the case for improved access at Insch Station when I was Chair of the Infrastructure Services Committee for the Aberdeenshire Partnership so I’m well aware of the desire locally to see this matter resolved. I hope now we will see some options coming forward that will provide a solution to the access issues.”

SNP councillor for West Garioch Vicky Harper added:

“This is a very welcome first step to getting improved access at Insch Station, which I know has been an issue for a long time.

“Once a preferred option has been identified from this study, I hope we can move quickly to improve the access to the west-bound platform.”

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Westhill Councillor Comments on Royal Bank Closure Decision

SNP councillor for Westhill & District David Aitchison is calling on the Royal Bank of Scotland to show loyalty to communities which have supported the bank through its difficult times.

Cllr Aitchison has said the bank should “pause and reconsider” the decision to close the Westhill Branch.

Commenting, he said:

"There is clearly concern in Westhill about the decision of RBS to close its Westhill branch. We are all aware of the growth and convenience of online and digital banking but many people in our community still value the personal face to face service at a local branch.

“Westhill is an economically vibrant town of close to 12,000 people which is both regionally and nationally significant. If RBS can close the branch here they can do it anywhere.

“I will be calling on RBS and the UK Government as the major shareholder in the bank to pause and reconsider this decision and show some loyalty to the local communities who supported RBS through difficult times."

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SNP Announce Candidates for Westhill & District

Local resident Heather Coull has been selected by SNP members in Westhill & District ward to join Councillor David Aitchison in seeking election to represent the ward on Aberdeenshire Council.

Councillor Mandy Allan, who has represented the Ward since 2007 is stepping down at the forthcoming election owing to work commitments.

Heather Coull was born in Aberdeen and has lived all her life in Aberdeenshire. Heather, aged 38, is married and is the youngest daughter of two school teachers. Heather is committed to lifelong learning. She studied at RGU where she successfully achieved both BA and MSc degrees. As a former oil and gas industry worker, Heather has the experience and background to identify with a large number of residents in and around the Westhill area.

A member of Westhill & Elrick Community Council, one of Heather’s main priorities and areas of focus if successful in being elected will be in supporting and championing community groups in Westhill and the surrounding villages to achieve their ambitions via community choice budgeting.

Commenting, Heather Coull said:

“I am delighted to be selected as an SNP candidate for the Westhill & District ward and if elected I aim to carry on Mandy Allan’s good work and work together with David, and indeed the other Westhill councillors, as a strong team for our local area.”.

David Aitchison was elected as a councillor at the 2012 election and was formerly a surveyor in the civil service. David who is married with 3 children grew up in Eyemouth and worked in Edinburgh, Nottingham and Durham before moving to Westhill over twenty years ago.

Since being elected David has served on the Infrastructure Services, Scrutiny & Audit and Education & Children’s Services Committees. Since June 2015 he has been Chairman of Aberdeenshire’s Infrastructure Services Committee and Vice-Chairman of NESTRANS, the North-east transport partnership.

Commenting on his selection David Aitchison said:

“It has been a privilege to represent Westhill & District and I am delighted to be a candidate to represent the ward again.

“In my two years as an administration senior councillor I have been able to oversee policies on regeneration, planning and economic development which will benefit Aberdeenshire.

“Westhill is now at a crossroads in terms of its development. It is time to consider what we want our community to look like in the future. If re-elected I will continue the dialogue that I am already having on this issue and work with partners and residents to create a vision for the future which Westhill deserves.”

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Positive Progress Towards Future for NE Dairy Sector

A study into options for the North-east dairy industry supported by Aberdeenshire Council and Opportunity North-east (ONE) has identified potential investors.

The study was initiated following the decision by Muller Wiseman to close their milk processing plant in Aberdeen and truck milk to Bellshill, Lanarkshire, for processing, for which producers are charged 1¾ pence per litre. This, coupled with low milk prices over recent years has put the future of the North-east dairy sector in serious doubt.

Now, the second stage of the dairy study has seen a prospectus selling the North-east dairy opportunity prepared and widely promoted in the UK and internationally. Three serious investment prospects have emerged from this work.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Cllr David Aitchison (SNP-Westhill & District), whose remit includes economic development, said:

“This is a positive first step to ensuring the continued economic viability of dairy farming in the North-east. Partnership working has ensured that we have come this far and I am hopeful there will be a positive outcome.”

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson commented:

“I am delighted that a number of potential investors have expressed an interest in the opportunities which exist in the milk sector here in the North-east following the decision by Muller Wiseman to close their operations here.

“This represents important progress and while we should be cautious at this early stage, Aberdeenshire Council and ONE are to be commended for their efforts to date.”

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Councillors Welcome Progress to Reduce Street-Lighting Costs & Save Energy

Aberdeenshire Council is working to reduce the cost of street-lighting by moving to new low-energy LED lanterns. Nearly 10% of the street lights across the council area are now LED.

This year’s lighting program has reduced the council’s energy consumption so far by 420,000kwh, leading to savings in council taxpayers’ money which can support other vital local services.

Chair of the Infrastructure Services Committee Cllr David Aitchison (SNP-Westhill & District) said:

"We have over 44,000 street lights in Aberdeenshire and we are working to convert them to LED. Current predictions are that we expect to reduce our energy consumption by 45% which will result in a significant financial saving in future years."

Vice-Chair Cllr Graeme Clark (SNP-Stonehaven & District) added:

“Aberdeenshire Council are taking steps to cut energy costs and meet carbon reduction targets by their use of LED street lights. This has been a difficult budget to trim but LEDs use less electricity and last longer than sodium street lights.”

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Further Progress Welcomed on Kintore Station

Plans for a new railway station at Kintore have taken another step forward.

Councillors agreed to contribute £3.2million towards the project from Aberdeenshire Council and the North-east Regional Transport Partnership (NESTRANS) recently. Now, the Scottish Government has confirmed it will increase its funding from the Scottish Stations Fund from 50% to 60% towards the project.

This follows on from last week’s decision at a meeting of the full Aberdeenshire Council to proceed with Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) for the required land.

Nestrans and Aberdeenshire Council have today welcomed the commitment from the Scottish Government to provide additional funding for the new Kintore station.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr David Aitchison said:

“This additional funding from the Scottish Government for the new Kintore Station is very good news. Aberdeenshire Council and NESTRANS will continue to work in partnership with the Scottish Government to ensure the project moves forward, unlocking substantial economic benefit to Kintore and wider Aberdeenshire.

“The support from the Scottish Government for road and rail improvements along the Aberdeen-Inverness Corridor is extremely welcome indeed. The commitment to dual the A96 and the major investment in the railway line between Aberdeen and Inverness, coupled with the increased number of services to and from Inverurie introduced in recent years will be transformational for this area, for the travelling public and also for the local economy.

“I’m delighted that the North-east will be benefiting significantly from this huge investment.”

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Councillors Welcome Chapel Street Re-Opening to Traffic

Traffic will once more be able to travel on Chapel Street in Peterhead, from this week.

Both Chapel Street and part of Marischal Street were pedestrianised as part of a Peterhead Town Centre Improvements plan in 2001. Since that time only emergency vehicles, buses and delivery vehicles have been permitted access to these streets.

Works have been ongoing to restore the flow of traffic to Chapel Street in the hope that it will help to regenerate the Peterhead town centre.

Chair of the Buchan Area Committee, Cllr Stuart Pratt said:

“Following a request from the Peterhead Futures Group and as a result of a strategic report commissioned by Aberdeenshire Council in 2013 the Buchan Area Committee requested further investigation into the possibility of re-introducing general traffic to Chapel Street and part of Marischal Street, in a one way direction, from Queen Street through to Broad Street. Subsequently in April 2015 we on the Buchan Area Committee agreed a report recommending the reintroduction of traffic into these streets for a trial period of up to 2 years.”

The proposed changes required an application to be made to Transport Scotland for the area be designated as a Restricted Parking Zone in order to achieve an acceptable traffic flow and to minimise congestion between Queen Street and Broad Street.

This ‘Restricted Parking Zone’ is effectively a prohibition of waiting and loading, without the need to apply unsightly road markings on the cobbled streets within a designated conservation area. Within the ‘Restricted Parking Zone’ designated loading and disabled parking bays are being provided in the vicinity of Marischal Street and these will be clearly signed.

In order to maintain pedestrian safety in the area granite bollards have been erected at the edge of the footways and, a 20mph speed limit has been introduced.

An existing bus stop on Chapel Street will be relocated and Aberdeenshire Council’s Public Transport Unit are reviewing the location in response to local concerns.

Chapel Street has been closed to busses throughout the recent works but it is due to re-open to buses as before, from Thursday 17 November.

Chapel Street will be fully open to traffic from Monday 21 November.

Cllr David Aitchison, Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee said,

“I sincerely hope that the re-introduction of traffic to this area of Peterhead will be a success and lead to an increase in business”

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Action to Tackle Increase in Underage Tobacco Sales in Aberdeenshire

The number of undercover enforcement visits to local shops will increase this year, after a “disappointing” rise in non-compliance with tobacco sales laws. In percentage terms, the number of retailers in the area who sold tobacco to children during enforcement activity by Trading Standards officers increased last year.

Local authorities have a duty to work under the Tobacco and Primary Medical Services (Scotland) Act 2010 to prevent the sale of tobacco to children. This involves investigating complaints about alleged offences and taking measures to reduce the number of offences.

The law prohibits the sale of cigarettes to under-18s and buying cigarettes on their behalf. It also requires the registration of tobacco retailers and includes a ban on tobacco displays in all premises selling related products.

Scottish Trading Standards services are working with the Scottish Government to increase enforcement activity to help reduce availability to young people.

In the year up to March 2016, officers in Aberdeenshire conducted 12 test purchase visits throughout the area using 16-year-old volunteers.

A total of 4 sales were made, 33% of the test purchases, resulting in warning letters being issued to retailers and their staff, with follow up visits to be made.

The previous year, 64 test purchases were carried out, resulting in 5 sales (7.8%).

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Cllr David Aitchison, said:

“These figures show a disappointing increase and so more visits will be carried out in the coming year to emphasise the importance of taking adequate steps to prevent tobacco sales to young people taking place.

“Good progress had been made in the previous two years, so we hope our planned enforcement activity will help to return to a more positive position.

“Ultimately the aim here is to reduce the number of young people who smoke and we need retailers to understand why that’s important and get behind it.”

Vice-chair Cllr Graeme Clark added:

“We have to work together as a community, enforcing national legislation locally so that we support efforts to prevent young people from taking up smoking. This is an important issue.

“Selling cigarettes to young people purely to make a profit at the expense of their health cannot be condoned and I’m glad the vast majority of local retailers are taking that message onboard.”

Trading Standards staff carried out 71 visits to tobacco retailers over the last year to inspect premises and provide help and advice on complying with legislation. Advice was issued to ten found not to be displaying statutory notices regarding underage sales. This is a 5% increase on the previous year.

Following a campaign launched in March 2012 in conjunction with Aberdeen City and Moray councils to highlight the issue of illegal tobacco sales, 19 reports were received during the year providing information about alleged sales of counterfeit cigarettes.

Several of these were in relation to the same premises and further action is being pursued against the business.

In addition, monitoring of social media sites identified 15 potentially illegal tobacco traders in and around Aberdeenshire – appropriate action is being pursued.

At a recent meeting, members of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee agreed a continued programme of enforcement and advice for the coming year, including further test-purchasing by 16-year-olds.

Activity will also include inspections of premises where tobacco is sold and surveillance of premises where complaints or other intelligence indicates tobacco products may be being illegally sold, including the use of social media sites.

This year the trading standards team will also try to raise awareness of the legislation as it applies to purchases of tobacco products by and for under-18s at and around schools and further education institutions.

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Local Councillors Welcome Fraserburgh 2021 Lottery Funding

A major regeneration project in Fraserburgh has secured the last of the funding it needs to progress and deliver visible improvements for the local community.

Aberdeenshire Council has been successful in its second round funding bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund for the £5.7 million Fraserburgh 2021 project.

The Heritage Lottery Fund (Townscape Heritage) has awarded around £1.8 million, meaning all necessary partner funding is in place to start work.

The rest of the money comes from Aberdeenshire Council (£1.4 million), Historic Environment Scotland (£1.2 million) and the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (£0.6 million), together with expected private owner contributions (£0.7 million).

The project’s principal aim is to support the regeneration of the town’s built heritage.

Priority projects include improving historic properties in Saltoun Square such as the Town House and Police Station, which are both in need of repair.

Grants will be made available to help private property owners carry out repairs to properties within the town centre Conservation Area.

Local heritage projects will also be carried out with local groups including Fraserburgh schools.

In the course of applying for the latest lottery funding, work was carried out to further develop plans and costings for building projects.

As many owners and businesses as possible in the main regeneration area were contacted about the scheme and public sessions were held to help inform the community about the proposals.

Applications for Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent for improvement works to the Town House and Police Station have now been submitted.

Designed in 1853 by architect Thomas Mackenzie, the Town House is category B-listed. The police station was added in 1906, designed to match its neighbour, but is currently unused.

The inventive reconfiguration of these two historic civic buildings has been developed by Moxon Architects and Conservation Architect Alan Marshall.

The Town House at 1-3 Saltoun Chambers – which houses the council chambers – will be sensitively restored and combined with the adjacent former police station.

Non-original features at the rear will be demolished to make way for an extension, which will accommodate meeting rooms for council and public use.

The layouts of both buildings will be modified to suit the new combined premises, with principle routes between the entrances, council chamber and council services passing through the new extension, with greater accessibility for all.

The project is intended to create a significant public asset in a key location in the town centre at the junction of Saltoun Square and Kirk Brae, while also enhancing the North Braeheads area to the rear of the building, which will be landscaped.

Commenting, Fraserburgh SNP councillor Brian Topping said:

“I am absolutely delighted as this funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund will allow the council to renovate and radically improve the former council chamber and former police station into a community building, allowing meeting space for the community, a one stop council desk, information about council services and much more

“It will retain our local heritage which is very important and will enhance our town centre appearance and hopefully encourage other property owners to tidy up the appearance of their property.

“This is a very positive step for the community and I am grateful to the council staff who have worked so hard to secure this funding for the Broch, which I am very proud to represent.”

Fraserburgh SNP councillor Charles Buchan added:

“I’m overjoyed that at last all the pieces of the jigsaw are now in place so work can start.

“It's great that this huge amount of money is coming into the town from outside sources, and we will be working to ensure it makes a difference to Fraserburgh.”

Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee (ISC), Cllr David Aitchison, said:

“The announcement of the last of the funding to allow this project to go ahead is a great vote of confidence for Fraserburgh businesses and communities.

“This is a significant and very visible project which is an integral part of regeneration plans for the town and I hope local property owners will continue to work with us to bring up the quality of the town centre generally, which should have a positive impact on the Conservation Area and the wider community.”

ISC vice-chair, Cllr Stephen Smith, said:

“There has been significant effort going on behind the scenes to make this project not only viable in the current financial climate, but to make it a success.

“A significant sum of money has now been secured, and of course Aberdeenshire Council is contributing to that, demonstrating the faith being placed in the aims of this regeneration project, which seeks to improve the town for the benefit of the wider area and communities.”

“Thanks to National Lottery players the final piece in the jigsaw of this ambitious partnership has slotted into place,” said Lucy Casot, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) in Scotland.

“The restoration of a number of key historic buildings in the town centre will boost the local economy helping secure a brighter future for Fraserburgh. Once finished, the scheme will reinvigorate an even greater sense of pride into local people who call this famous fishing town home.”

Work on Fraserburgh 2021 starts on the ground in August and will run until 2021. Look out for more updates on the Fraserburgh 2021 Facebook page.

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Public Vote Opens on Aberdeenshire Design Awards 2016

Members of the public can now participate in a project intended to raise and recognise the standard of design in Aberdeenshire.

Aberdeenshire Council’s well-established biennial design awards have this year been revised to mark the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design.

Although an expert judging panel will help determine the winners, a public vote is now open to allow local people to have a say on their favourite designs.

Entries to the awards are expected to focus on conceptual design based on innovation, rather than completed projects as in previous years.

This change was intended to encourage more student entrants, as well as established architects and developers, contributing to the awards’ aim to encourage the very best in design into the future.

Projects must show exceptional quality and merit to receive an award.

Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr David Aitchison, said:

“We recognise that good design is important to the public realm and in a wider context believe that development must be of benefit to the people.

“I would encourage anyone who has an interest to have their say on the submissions made to this year’s awards and help to push up the standard of design.”

ISC vice chair, Cllr Stephen Smith, said:

“Our Design Award scheme has operated since 1997 as a means of raising the profile of good design and has been an excellent means of not only stimulating greater awareness, but of promoting excellence and innovation.

“We hope the revised awards will help to boost that even further and the public vote is an important element of that.”

Seven projects successful at Phase 1, submitted as conceptual designs, will be formally judged. But they are also being put forward for a separate public vote.

Anyone can go online now and view short videos outlining each of the projects before casting their vote on the Aberdeenshire Council website: http://bit.ly/28SDVQc.

The vote will close on Monday 18 July and the winners will be announced in an award ceremony at Banchory’s Woodend Barn on Thursday 1 September.

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Aberdeenshire Council Named as Transport Authority of the Year

Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Cllr David Aitchison has said winning the title of Transport Authority of the Year for the fourth time is a credit to the council staff involved.

Aberdeenshire Council won the prestigious title of Transport Authority of the Year at the 2016 Scottish Transport Awards last week. A previous winner of the accolade in 2008, 2009 and 2012, it is the first local authority to win the title on four occasions.

The council was shortlisted in an additional four categories and these projects were all recognised in the winning submission for Transport Authority of the Year.

Aberdeenshire’s Integrated Travel Towns (ITT) project is aimed at increasing the proportion of travel undertaken by sustainable modes. In Ellon, improvements included the construction of a new foot and cycle bridge across the River Ythan and upgrading the path along the north bank, providing a safe route to the new Academy from the town centre.

A real time passenger information system for bus services went live in January 2016. The system provides live departure times, allowing customers to make more informed travel choices at the various stages of their journey.

During the aftermath of Storm Frank in December 2015 and January 2016, front line Transportation service employees provided emergency transport in challenging conditions to assist with evacuation of affected communities. They also helped maintain a link between Braemar and the rest of Aberdeenshire during the closure of Invercauld Bridge and the A93 at Micras.

The council's engagement with customers through regular Area Bus Forums and through the annual Bus Passenger Satisfaction Survey was also evidence that customers are at the heart of what the team does.

Efforts of road maintenance teams also ensure it is consistently among the top rated councils in the Scottish Road Maintenance Condition Survey, highlighting that the operational aspects of the council's activities are held in as high regard as the project-based activities.

Aberdeenshire's role in administering the successful Grasshopper multi-operator bus pass also demonstrates what can be achieved by working in partnership with other public sector bodies and partners in the private sector.

These are just some examples of the excellent transportation work being carried out by the council which contributed toward the awards success.

Chairman of the council’s Infrastructure Services Committee (ISC), Cllr David Aitchison, said:

"It is extremely satisfying to see Aberdeenshire again being recognised at the Scottish Transport Awards.

“These awards showcase best practice from across the country and it is a credit to everyone involved to have won this award for the fourth time, highlighting the efforts being made to improve local transport every day.”

ISC vice chair, Cllr Stephen Smith, added:

"To be shortlisted for five categories at this year’s Scottish Transport Awards highlights that Aberdeenshire Council is leading the way in a variety of transportation projects.

“Winning Transport Authority of the Year again demonstrates the council is succeeding in meeting its vision of being the very best of Scotland and I thank all our Transportation staff for helping to make it so.”

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£1.3m award for Banff & Buchan regeneration projects welcomed

Regeneration projects in Banff and Fraserburgh will benefit from a cash injection of more than £1.3million, it has been announced. The Aberdeenshire Council projects secured a share of this year’s £25million Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF).

Combined with recently announced lottery funding from Creative Scotland, Banff will get more than £300,000 to revive silversmithing in the town by bringing a derelict building back into artisan use as a studio for contemporary silversmith graduates.

The Meal House, a B-Listed building at the east end of Bridge Street in Banff, is on the “Buildings at Risk” register due to its poor condition. Also known locally as the Old Smiddy, it will act as an incubation centre for up to five silversmith posts, with others potentially visiting, coaching and sharing equipment.

There are also plans to host night classes and longer courses during the summer. The aim would be for graduates to settle in the area, possibly open a retail outlet and produce new silver pieces linked to the area once again.

The project is intended to re-establish Banff as a part of the silver industry, which flourished in the town from 1600s to the 1800s. A longer term aim is to establish the town as a Scottish centre for silversmithing.

Banff has its own assay mark – the letter “B” – and local products are much sought after by worldwide collectors.

The project will also shed new light on the precious collection of Banff Silver within the town’s museum.

Banffshire Preservation and Historic Society will be involved in the project and was recently successful in securing further funding towards the cost of the development stage of plans to re-establish Banff as a centre for silversmithing.

Lottery Funding of £6,800 has been secured from the Open Project Funding Programme of Creative Scotland to develop a programme for graduate silversmiths and to build partnerships with interested arts organisations.

Council Chambers, Saltoun Square, Fraserburgh

“Fraserburgh 2021”, a long-term regeneration effort to restore the built-heritage of the town, improve the town centre and improve health and wellbeing, will receive £1,056,243 towards the project total of £2.2million.

This project combines the redevelopment of Saltoun Square Council Chambers with a proposed new sports development at the town’s South Links.

The redevelopment of the Chambers and the adjacent former Police Station is a key part of the town’s newly-designated Fraserburgh Conservation Area.

The intention is to have an innovative mix of new uses, from an improved Council Service Point to facilities for community and civic functions.

A dedicated Enterprise Hub on the site will look to educate, support and accelerate indigenous business growth and ensure a pipeline of growing local businesses.

It is being developed in partnership with the Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic Environment Scotland, among others.

Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee (ISC), Councillor David Aitchison, said:

“We were very hopeful these applications would be successful because they demonstrate not just our commitment to regeneration, but the close working relations the Council has established with community groups who can help us to make these exciting things happen.

“The development of creative places and culture-led regeneration should be encouraged as an effective approach to delivering sustainable, high quality environments.”

ISC vice chair, Councillor Stephen Smith, said:

“Securing funding for these developments is very important for our emerging vision of strong, resilient communities, where businesses and people are enabled to flourish.

“The combination of a revival of Saltoun Square Council Chambers and new sports facilities for the many existing and prospective sports club members in Fraserburgh were two of the earliest and strongest aims which emerged during consultation on the town’s renewal, so it is great news that we have not only listened but will now deliver what are the largest projects to date in our regeneration efforts for the town.”

Fraserburgh SNP Councillor Charles Buchan added:

“I’m delighted that progress is being made on the historic buildings in Saltoun Square. These are the civic heart of Fraserburgh and I have been campaigning with colleagues for better use to be made of them since I was elected. This is good news for the Broch.”

The Fraserburgh sports development, proposed for Feuars land at South Links, will comprise an improved football pitch with running and athletics facilities.

An all-abilities cycle track will also be included and has been a long-term ambition for the many sporting clubs in the town which make up Fraserburgh Sports Hub.

With major funding secured, efforts will now be focussed on securing the remaining funds and establishing the project teams responsible for delivery.

It is hoped work will start at Saltoun Square Council Chambers and Police Station in August 2017, with work on the sports development finished by autumn of 2018. The Silversmithing project in Banff is scheduled to be ready by 2019.

More information on the Banff Preservation and Heritage Society is available at: http://www.bphsmob.org.uk/.

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Nuisance gull strategy continues with Peterhead pilot project

Efforts to tackle nuisance gulls will be stepped up in Peterhead this weekend as part of an ongoing project to lessen their negative impact on communities. Aberdeenshire Council wants local people to work with it to persuade gulls their natural environment is preferable to our town centres.

Last year the authority began a five-year project to raise the profile of the problem and the potential solutions, while addressing the issue where possible. Every year the council receives complaints about people and pets being attacked, the mess caused by droppings and the noise of amorous birds among the rooftops.

The council has a preferred supplier which can advise and assist residents and businesses with work such as nest and egg removal and installing deterrents. At the start of breeding season, residents and businesses were encouraged to think about how they can contribute to lessening the problems gulls cause.

Meantime, the council has been progressing with work on its own properties and in public spaces and is running a pilot programme with property owners in Peterhead town centre.

At the start of May, Presly Pest Control carried out the first of several visits to Peterhead to remove eggs and nests from roofs in Marischal Street, Drummers Corner, Thistle Street, Back Street and parts of Chapel Street and Prince Street.

The work is being done under General Licence from Scottish Natural Heritage. No chicks or adult gulls are harmed during the process – only eggs are taken, and if chicks are present during later visits, their nest will be left untouched.

It is supported by regeneration funding through the Peterhead Futures Group, and was offered to property owners at a subsidised rate to encourage take-up.

Nineteen property owners took part, allowing the roofs of 40 buildings to be checked with the result that 32 nests were removed.

More than half of those nests already contained eggs, while the owners of the others would have been about to lay.

With an average of three eggs laid in each gull nest, and the majority of urban gulls successfully raising all of their chicks, this will have prevented almost 100 young gulls from hatching and causing problems in the town centre later this summer.

It is now the height of laying season, and this weekend the pest controllers returned to Peterhead to remove more nests and eggs.

Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee (ISC), Councillor David Aitchison, said:

“Gulls have become a very serious problem in Peterhead town centre in recent years, though other towns are affected.

“Many people have been attacked, and some have been injured. Businesses have been badly affected as potential customers are reluctant to venture into town.

“Town centre residents have also had to put up with the noise disturbance and mess caused by nesting gulls and I’m pleased we are able to take action and try new things to address the concerns of local people and visitors.”

ISC vice chair, Councillor Stephen Smith, also a Peterhead councillor, said:

“This is a pilot project and we will carefully monitor the outcome with a view to using this tactic elsewhere.

“We are very grateful for the support of the many property owners and local businesses who have taken part, which will make the town centre safer and a more pleasant place to visit for everyone.

“The area targeted was identified as a hotspot for gulls breeding around the town centre, with the aim being to reduce the number of young gulls competing for food in late summer, which should reduce the incidence of attacks on people to steal food.”

Last year the council removed nests and eggs at 77 education properties, three social work properties, 23 corporate buildings and one roads office at a cost of around £12,000.

A similar sum was spent flying hawks as a deterrent at Lairhillock School, Westhill Academy, Banchory Primary and Academy and its Woodhill House HQ in Aberdeen.

Deterrents have also been installed on buildings such as Buchan House in Peterhead and Banff Town House.

For more information on how you can help deal with nuisance gulls, see our Survivor’s Guide to Living with Urban Gulls: http://bit.ly/1oDdgeX.

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Apply for Flood Recovery Grants by End of March

Aberdeenshire Council continues to make payments through the Scottish Government Relief Fund to those affected by recent flooding and so far the majority of the £2million fund has been issued (£1.6million).

The number of households benefitting from the £1,500 grant is 857 and 116 payments have been provided to businesses.

In addition, separate business grants of £3,000 have been paid to 55 businesses and the council will be contacting people who may still be eligible.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Cllr David Aitchison said:

“Over 1000 individuals and businesses have benefitted from the Scottish Government’s Relief Fund being administered locally by Aberdeenshire Council and I’ve been very pleased with the council’s pro-active approach in this regard.

“I encourage those who haven’t applied for a grant to do so as soon as possible.”

Vice Chair Cllr Stephen Smith added:

“I’ve had some very positive feedback about the council’s staff who have been involved in providing help and support to the affected communities and it’s important to recognise that, as well as the multitude of volunteers who came forward to help in the aftermath of the floods.

“It’s good that the relief funding has been reaching those who need it but there may still be others yet to claim and it’s important they do so without delay.”

Director of Infrastructure Services Stephen Archer said:

“We continue to work with communities to recover from flooding from providing help to clear up streets and waterways; repair bridges and roads to the provision of business advice and more.

“The funding support has been welcomed too and we have issued over half of the allocation we received from Scottish Government and processed applications as quickly as possible and I thank our colleagues in finance for their work on this.

“We plan to contact businesses that we know were affected by the flooding to advise them of grant availability if they haven’t already applied as well as checking our own tenants to make sure everyone that is eligible can take advantage.

“I urge those who haven’t already applied to visit the website and apply for funding available before the end of March.”

£1,500 is available to households, static caravan owners, businesses or community groups (such as rugby clubs) where premises have been directly affected by the flooding to enable householders and businesses to protect their home or business against future floods.

Support of £3,000 is also available to businesses that can demonstrate their ability to trade has been severely impacted by the flooding at the beginning of January.

The business grant is being funded separately by Scottish Government and is a one-off payment to offset costs which cannot be covered by existing insurance, for example clean-up costs, materials and exceptional costs to help the business restore trade, such as marketing and promotion.

Only those households and businesses which were directly affected by the flooding in December 2015 and early January 2016 are eligible to apply for the grant.

An online application form is available at: https://online.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/flooding-grant-scheme/.

The deadline for application is extended until Thursday, March 31.

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Routing of Dualled A96 Needs to Consider Role of A947 Says Councillors

Transport Scotland has been urged to carefully consider how the dualling of the A96 Aberdeen to Inverness road could aid proposals to improve another major route.

Aberdeenshire councillors believe a route to the east of Inverurie could not only alleviate concerns about effects on the iconic nearby landscape around Bennachie, but also improve safety and journey times on the A947 Aberdeen to Banff road.

The comments were made at a meeting of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee (ISC) in Aberdeen last week. Members of the committee were considering the results of a consultation on a proposed Route Improvement Strategy for the A947.

There has been local concern about the safety of the 41-mile route for many years and council officers were tasked with finding ways in which it could be improved. Although no budget is currently available for long-term improvement works, councillors wanted to take a comprehensive look at the options, taking local views into account.

The strategy is intended to be a body of evidence from which to make a case for the funding of future improvements against a backdrop of competiting priorities. It is hoped it will ultimately provide a route which is more fit for purpose, removing driver frustration while improving journey times and safety, benefitting the economy.

Options proposed include increasing police speed checks, creating more overtaking sections, or even a full dualling of the southern section of the route. The improvement strategy has been out for consultation with road users and communities along the route, also gathering the views of local councillors.

ISC chairman, Cllr David Aitchison, said Aberdeenshire Council and Transport Scotland should continue to work together to solve common problems.

“While the focus of this report is on the A947, the link with the dualling of the nearby A96 is something which this council, I feel, must highlight and promote to Transport Scotland. I don’t think we would be doing our job if we didn’t do that.”

Councillors heard officers have already raised with the transport agency the potential benefits to be gained by the careful routing of the new dualled trunk road.

Cllr Aitchison added:

“I am pleased that contact has been made with Transport Scotland on this issue and would encourage officers to continue with that and to continue raising the matter whenever possible.”

Speaking after the meeting, ISC vice chair Cllr Stephen Smith, said:

“During the consultation, area committees clearly recognised how the proposed dualling of the A96 could link into any potential upgrading of the Dyce to Newmachar to Oldmeldrum sections of the A947.

“Given the stage Transport Scotland’s project to dual the A96 is at, with the next stage of design due to begin later this year, this is an entirely appropriate time for them to consider how adjacent routes could be positively affected by the work.”

SNP councillor for Inverurie & District Bryan Stuart said momentum had to be maintained and described the routing of the A96 as “very relevant”. He said there was a strong case to be made for the route to head to the east of Inverurie, with local constituents already concerned about the potential impact of work on the iconic landscape of Bennachie, to the west of the town.

The committee approved the A947 Route Improvement Strategy and an associated, shorter-term action plan on how to take the strategy forward.

The action plan details both improvements which the council would seek to be making, as well as those it could put in place, should funding become available.

The council’s Head of Transportation, Ewan Wallace, said:

“We now have a strong base to build on in terms of where we go with this piece of work.”

Councillors welcomed the high quality of the report and the progress which has been made on the issue to date.

They emphasised that an improved A947 would not only benefit safety, but also the economy of north Aberdeenshire.

The intention to fully dual the A96 was announced by the Scottish Government in December 2011, with a commitment to complete the work by 2030.

The report to committee, including the approved A947 Route Improvement Strategy and associated action plan, can be viewed on Aberdeenshire Council’s website. (http://bit.ly/1Rw4GoL)

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Still Time for Homes & Businesses to Apply for Post-Flood Grants

Aberdeenshire Council continues to make payments through the Scottish Government Relief Fund to those affected by recent flooding and is encouraging people to take advantage, especially business owners who can get up to £4,500.

So far around half the £2 million fund has been issued (£984,000) with 656 to households and 87 to businesses through the £1,500 payment and 20 businesses have also received the specific £3,000 business grant.

The authority is encouraging business owners to take advantage of the grants which can be used to replace damaged stock, equipment or property.

Business owners are eligible to apply for £1,500 and a separate £3,000 grant, so could claim up to £4,500 to help with flood recovery costs.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Councillor David Aitchison said:

“I urge businesses of all sizes to take advantage of the financial support available following the devastating floods that affected Aberdeenshire and this in turn will also support wider economic recovery. A lot of work has taken place to work with communities as part of the council’s Flood Recovery Plan and it will continue to do all it can to provide assistance.”

Vice Chair Councillor Stephen Smith added:

“Many people have received grants to repair businesses or homes and the council has worked quickly to carry this out.

“More work is taking place to support businesses in Aberdeenshire affected by flooding as we look ahead to the summer and ensure the area can welcome visitors and local trade as soon as possible and get Aberdeenshire back to business.”

Aberdeenshire Council is administering the £2million fund on behalf of the Scottish Government. It is one of a range of initiatives that have been announced to support individuals and communities during the recovery period.

Alongside processing applications for flood relief payments the council’s finance team has been assessing council tax and business rates to provide rebates to people while they are unable to access council services and are out of their homes.

Aberdeenshire Council’s Head of Finance Alan Wood explains:

“We aim to process all claims as quickly as possible and are taking a holistic approach so the team is looking at council tax and business rates rebates in addition to grant payments, to ensure people affected by flooding get the maximum benefits.

“We have received many applications for individual grants but more businesses, from retailers to farm owners, can apply for both and take advantage of the support.

“I would encourage people to visit the website and fill in an online form https://online.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/flooding-grant-scheme/
as soon as possible.”

£1,500 is available to households, static caravan owners, businesses or community groups (such as rugby clubs) where premises have been directly affected by the flooding to enable householders and businesses to protect their home or business against future floods.

Support of £3,000 is also available to businesses that can demonstrate their ability to trade has been severely impacted by the flooding at the beginning of January.

So far 20 businesses have received the £3,000 grant and butcher Barry Florence of H M Sheridan Ltd, Bridge Street, Ballater was among one of the first businesses to receive the business grant.

His shop has been in Ballater for ten years and is currently closed, whilst he works to recover from the recent flooding alongside his business partner, John.

Barry, 50, said:

“This funding will assist us as we move forward from the recent flooding.

“The business was totally devastated so it really is like starting all over again. I’m going to use it for advertising and promotion and am working hard to repair the damage.

“All of the business community should come together so we can get back up and running and as far as Sheridan’s is concerned, for me, I’m positive, so it is onwards and upwards.

“If you told me six months ago I would be starting the business again I wouldn’t have imagined it, but it is also an opportunity to refurbish the shop and make the business better than ever.”

The business grant is being funded separately by Scottish Government and is a one-off payment to offset costs which cannot be covered by existing insurance, for example clean-up costs, materials and exceptional costs to help the business restore trade, such as marketing and promotion.

Businesses that have already submitted information for a grant payment are being processed and will be contacted regarding their application.

Only those households and businesses which were directly affected by the flooding in December 2015 and early January 2016 are eligible to apply for the grant.

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Community Service Teams Help with Flood Recovery

People completing Unpaid Work Orders in Aberdeenshire have been clearing up in Aboyne, Maryculter, Ellon and Port Elphinstone alongside staff from landscape and waste services following floods in December and January which affected the area.

During the height of the flooding the Aberdeenshire Unpaid Work Service also helped to transport food, clothing and furniture to affected areas to supply rest centres and households.

In addition, support was also provided to fill sandbags and transport these to storage sites for distribution.

Work been carried out at:

• HorseBack UK, Aboyne - clearing fallen branches from fields and access roads.
• Glen Tanar Estate, Aboyne – clearing access roads and river banks from flood debris.
• Deeside Caravan Park, Maryculter – collecting and clearing flood debris into skips for disposal.

Ongoing work is taking place at Port Elphinstone to sweep and clear the river bank pathways and the team will also carry out similar work in Ellon and Ballater as well as assisting in the restoration of garden areas in care homes.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Social Work and Housing Committee Councillor Anne Allan said:

“The unpaid work team can offer valuable assistance especially at times like these when communities need to recover quickly from flooding.

“The collaboration with wider council services involved in the response to flooding as well as flood prevention is a valuable addition to resources.

“I know the businesses, organisations and people that have received support to clear up will join me in thanking the team for the work carried out and I encourage people to get in touch if they have a project the team can work on.”

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Councillor David Aitchison said:

“The amount of work that has taken place by staff, volunteers and the unpaid work service to support communities across Aberdeenshire is commendable.

“The authority is doing everything it can to mitigate the impact of recent and future weather events from repairs to roads, bridges and buildings to supporting businesses and assessing preventative measures alongside partners.”

Aberdeenshire Unpaid Work Service regularly undertakes work across the area to community centres, village halls, care homes and churches.

In total 41,500 hours of unpaid work took place in 2014/15 and during the flooding the service carried out 168 hours over various projects.

Unpaid work is one of the requirements that can make up a Community Payback Order. The orders are tailored specifically to each offender based on the nature of the offence and any underlying issues they might have such as drug or alcohol misuse. Orders are normally imposed to run for between three months and three years.

Any required unpaid work should be completed within six months of sentence, where more than 100 hours are imposed or three months where it is less than 100 hours.

With the number of orders increasing, the service is always keen to hear about more local projects that could benefit from the help of people undertaking Community Payback Orders.

If you have a community project you would like help with contact Aberdeenshire Council’s Unpaid Work Service at:

Team Manager: joe.walsh@aberdeenshire.gov.uk
Projects Officer: john.clark@aberdeenshire.gov.uk (North Aberdeenshire)
Projects Officer: gillian.christie@aberdeenshire.gov.uk (South/Central Aberdeenshire)

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