Broch Councillor Brian Topping Comments on Sales of South Harbour Road Site

Fraserburgh SNP councillor Brian Topping has welcomed the announcement by Aberdeenshire Council that following a meeting of the council’s Business Services Committee, agreement has been reached to give permission to sell a development site at South Harbour Road in Fraserburgh.

Permission was granted to sell the site, which has lain vacant for a number of years, to George West Ltd. The proposals from the purchaser would see it turned into a mixed-use business and retail site, bringing employment opportunities to the town, generating money for the economy.

Welcoming the announcement from Aberdeenshire Council, Fraserburgh SNP councillor and Chair of the Fraserburgh Regeneration Group Brian Topping added:

© Aberdeenshire Council

“I very much welcome this announcement, which will see this site developed and contribute to the economy of Fraserburgh and district. I’m particularly pleased that the plans include proposals for a seafood centre of excellence to be located in the town.

“This is a good news announcement for the Broch. As Chair of the Regeneration Group for the town I’m keen to see opportunities like this developed so that local people benefit from increased employment opportunities.”

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SNP Win Vote in Fraserburgh & District Ward

The SNP in Fraserburgh was celebrating after coming first in Fraserburgh & District at last week’s local elections in terms of total votes with both of the party’s sitting councillors being returned.

Against an increased vote for the Tories across Aberdeenshire, the SNP saw off the challenge locally and topped the polls once again with 1,522 first preference votes.

Commenting, Banff & Buchan Westminster SNP candidate Eilidh Whiteford said:

“I’m delighted that Charles Buchan and Brian Topping have been re-elected to serve the people of the Fraserburgh & District ward and congratulate them on their vote. Our third candidate, David Donn, ran an excellent campaign on local issues which was well received and I congratulate him on a well-fought election, as I do the other candidates.”

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Commitment to Dalrymple Hall Welcomed

Fraserburgh SNP councillors Charles Buchan and Brian Topping, and local council candidate David Donn, have welcomed the commitment made at yesterday’s meeting of Aberdeenshire Council’s Business Services Committee to the town’s Dalrymple Hall.

            

Commenting, Cllr Charles Buchan said:

"We are delighted that the Council has agreed to retain the Dalrymple Hall and that the need for investment in the building has been identified. The hall, as well as being Fraserburgh’s Town Hall, is one of Aberdeenshire’s best known arts centres.

“We are aware that the building has been neglected by the previous Tory, Independent, and LibDem administrations, and have asked for badly-needed repairs and enhancements to the fabric of the building, to improve the auditorium, interior decoration, and accessibility. We hope that hall users will engage with us to make sure their views are heard. These improvements could greatly enhance our provision for arts and culture.

“Along with the other multi-million pounds investments in the town in the last two years, and the proposals for Fraserburgh in the 2017 local SNP manifesto, this shows that we have worked hard for the interests of the people of Fraserburgh, and should go a long way to satisfy the ambitions of our young people, and the arts community, and will enhance our high reputation for the arts.”

Cllr Charles Buchan, as vice-chair of the Education Committee, has successfully worked for the past two years to bring the northern hub of the world-famous Royal Conservatoire to Fraserburgh, and arrangements are being made to work with local schools, and groups to benefit our youth.

Cllr Brian Topping, as chair of the Fraserburgh Regeneration Group is working to use arts involvement as a regeneration vehicle for Fraserburgh and the villages.

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SNP Announce Team for Fraserburgh & District

Local Commitment and Experience
Former fishing skipper and offshore worker David Donn has been selected by SNP members in the Fraserburgh & District ward to join councillors Charles Buchan and Brian Topping in seeking election to represent the ward on Aberdeenshire Council, which also includes the villages of Rathen, Memsie, Inverallochy and Cairnbulg.

David Donn was born and raised in Fraserburgh and lives in the town. David, aged 50, is married with two daughters and two grandsons, with a granddaughter also on the way. As a former fishing skipper and ex-offshore worker, David feels he has the experience and background to identify with a large number of residents in and around the Fraserburgh area.

A member of Fraserburgh Community Council and other local voluntary groups, one of David’s main priorities and area of focus if successful in being elected will be in supporting and championing the many and varied voluntary community groups in Fraserburgh and the surrounding villages.

Charles Buchan was elected as a councillor at the 2012 election and was formerly head of physics at Fraserburgh Academy. Charles comes from a fishing family and went to the white fish and herring fishing before studying at Aberdeen University. Charles is married with 3 children, has lived in Fraserburgh all his working life and taught at the academy for 44 years.

Charles was active nationally, being for six years Convenor of the Scottish Examination Board’s Science Panel. His contributions to teaching were recognised by a UK National Award in 2009.

In the past 5 years representing Fraserburgh & District, Charles has worked with councillors across party lines to get the best outcomes for Aberdeenshire. As a result, he has been elected Chair of the council’s Fisheries Working Group, and vice-chair of the Education and Childrens Services Committee. He has been made a Governor of the Dick Bequest Trust, a Director of the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, and is involved in supporting Fraserburgh businesses.

Completing the SNP team for Fraserburgh & District is Brian Topping. Brian has proudly represented Fraserburgh and surrounding area for 33 years and is as passionate and committed now as he was when first elected in 1984.

Brian is married to Joan and has three children and five grandchildren, all of whom live in Fraserburgh. As Chair of the Fraserburgh & District Community Safety Group, Brian has worked to help drive forward many projects which have benefitted the community. An avid football fan, Brian can be found at Bellslea Park most home matches.

Commenting on his re-selection, Charles Buchan said:

“I am delighted to have been selected by the local SNP members to contest the election in my home area.

“In my two years as an administration senior councillor, I have helped to force through better regeneration policies, enhancing conservation status, and bringing us the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland North Hub to Fraserburgh. I am offering myself for election to serve the wider community and work as part of a team for Fraserburgh, Inverallochy, Cairnbulg and district.”

Commenting on his selection, David Donn said:

“I am delighted to have been selected by the local SNP members to contest the election in my home area.

“A sense of community is important and I absolutely believe that local government should stand for local communities and local issues. I also believe that it is local people that can make all the difference.

“I am offering myself for election to serve the wider community and work as part of a team for Fraserburgh, Inverallochy, Cairnbulg and district.”

Councillor Brian Topping added:

“As a member of the council’s SNP-led administration for the past two years, I am delighted that regeneration of the Broch is a top priority and I am honoured to chair the local regeneration group, working with local people and community groups.

“There are a number of projects moving forward apace, such as the regeneration of the old police station and council building in Saltoun Square; the CARS Project, which will make grants available to upgrade town centre business properties; and environmental and landscaping improvements.”

Local MSP Stewart Stevenson commented:

“I think the important thing here is the emphasis that Charles, David and Brian have placed on working together as a team for the benefit of Fraserburgh, Inverallochy, Cairnbulg and the rest of the Ward. That hasn’t always been the case with some of the Independent councillors elected in Aberdeenshire and it is something that has not gone unnoticed by my constituents.

“These are three excellent candidates whose track record of community involvement and activism speaks for itself and I wish them well.”

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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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Aberdeenshire Towns Conference Comes to Fraserburgh

Following a successful inaugural event in 2015 the Aberdeenshire Town Conference is returning and is heading to Fraserburgh next month. (April 22)

This year the conference will be part of North-east Business Week, with the title: “Investment and Development – Strengthening Aberdeenshire’s Town Centres”. Those with an interest in property investment and development are encouraged to attend the free event.

The conference will hear from a range of keynote speakers expert in their fields, and provide information on various funding streams of interest. Aberdeenshire Council’s regeneration and town centres manager, Christine Webster, will launch the council’s new Property Investment Fund.

This will be available to investors and property owners in Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Banff and Macduff, to help bring empty and derelict buildings back into use. Moira Simpson, an affordable housing development officer, will give information on the Aberdeenshire Empty Homes Loan Fund.

Information on funding options will be also be provided by The Royal Bank of Scotland’s Business Banking Director, Keith Pope. Diarmaid Lawlor of Architect and Design Scotland will speak on issues regarding empty space, town centre planning and shared space.

Bill Duguid from Ryden will give a brief update on the current market and will talk about investment and development within town centres. Tom Duff, a historic architect from LDN architects in Forres, will discuss ideas around listed buildings within conservation areas.

There will be networking opportunities over lunch and a chance to see what properties are for sale in the Banff, Macduff, Fraserburgh and Peterhead areas. Information on developments within those towns will also be available, and the day will finish with a walk around Fraserburgh town centre for anyone who is interested.

SNP councillor for Fraserburgh & District Brian Topping said:

“I’m delighted that Fraserburgh has managed to secure this event. Regeneration is a top priority for Aberdeenshire Council and with cross-party approval for the Council Administration’s refreshed strategy just last week, this conference is very timely indeed.”

Fellow Broch SNP councillor Charles Buchan added:

“This is set to be a very useful event and will share information and opportunities with community groups, local businesses, property owners and a range of other interested parties.

“We have an excellent range of presentations from a variety of organisations which I hope will be of benefit to those attending seeking information and sources of funding.”

Aberdeenshire Council’s Head of Economic Development, Belinda Miller, said:

“There’s a lot happening in terms of regeneration in Aberdeenshire, with a real focus on these four northern towns, and we have some exciting initiatives we want to share with the development industry and professionals.

“Building on the first town conference, we hope this will be an event which communicates new and innovative ideas and will be of use to all those with an interest in property investment and development.

“Spaces at the conference are limited so I encourage anyone who wants to attend to register their interest as soon as possible.”

Christine Webster added:

“The council’s Policy and Resources Committee recently confirmed £400,000 for the purposes of tackling derelict properties in the regeneration towns of Banff, Macduff, Fraserburgh and Peterhead.

“The fund is an important part of the council’s Regeneration Strategy, which should help breathe new life into towns and villages.

“The aim is to bring prominent, town centre properties which have been empty for at least six months, back into use.

“Applications will be open to individuals, community groups or businesses who own and wish to invest in their property to bring new, sustainable uses and we will be formally launching the fund at the Town Conference.”

Any architects, surveyors, estate agents, investors and developers, property owners, town centre businesses or community groups looking to invest should book via Eventbrite before Tuesday 19 April. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.

For more information or if you have a query about the Aberdeenshire Town Conference, please email: audrey.michie@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.

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Broch Councillor Urges People to Stay Safe This Christmas

Chairperson of Fraserburgh & District Community Safety Group Cllr Brian Topping is urging people to stay safe this Christmas.

Cllr Brian Topping said:

© Aberdeenshire Council

“There are some very simple steps we can all take to ensure we stay safe over the festive period. For example, wearing bright colours when out in the dark to be more visible, or if on a night out, arrange your transport to get home safely before going out.

“For cyclists, it’s very important to have working lights on your bicycle and, finally, but particularly important at this time of year, take care not to overload electrical sockets.”

Aberdeenshire Community Safety Partnership hopes Santa will deliver some road safety gifts this Christmas, supporting the partnership’s aim of promoting road safety.

A range of relatively inexpensive road safety ‘stocking fillers’ are available which can improve the safety of a wide range of road users, both in rural and urban settings.

Items such as florescent jackets, vests, arm bands, rucksacks and covers, with a reflective element for use in darkness, can highlight the presence of people using the road and make them more visible to other road users.

Motorcyclists, pedal cyclists, pedestrians, horse riders, dog walkers or runners wearing bright or reflective clothing significantly increase their visibility, allowing other drivers and riders more time to react to them. The ‘Be Seen – Be Safe’ approach is particularly relevant to pedal cyclists, and effective cycle lights can significantly improve visibility.

Although a wide range of relatively inexpensive lights are available, it may be worth investing in a product which literally ‘shines out’ from the rest, to ensure vulnerable road users really get noticed.

Effective lights supplemented by fluorescent or reflective clothing can significantly enhance cyclists’ visibility, even during the day. Improving visibility also extends to our four-legged friends and a variety of illuminated dog collars, as well as lights and reflective coats for dogs and horses, are available.

Chair of the Aberdeenshire Community Safety Partnership, Doug Milne, said:

“Road safety is one of the partnership’s top priorities and with Christmas approaching, some small and relatively inexpensive items can make a really practical gift which promotes road safety.

“Increasing the visibility of road users, whether in daylight or darkness, is a simple yet very effective way of encouraging people to stay safe on our roads.

“We hope Santa will pack a few of these items in his sack, as he prepares to deliver around Aberdeenshire!”

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Broch Councillors Comment on Young's Jobs Announcement

Commenting on the news that Young's are considering a new preferred option for the future of the company which could see the fish processor retaining a presence in Fraserburgh, local SNP Councillor Brian Topping said:

“While the prospect of retaining 250 jobs on site is obviously welcome, job losses on this scale will still represent a big hit to the Fraserburgh economy. However, if the factory remains, then so does the potential for future growth and with it, a greater number of jobs again in future.

“Young's is a very valuable employer in Fraserburgh and I know that the Scottish Government, Aberdeenshire Council and the various agencies are doing all that they can to try and secure the future of the factory, as well as to assist all those who face losing their jobs in finding new employment.”

Fellow SNP Fraserburgh & District Councillor Charles Buchan added:

“The response to the news of the planned closure by government agencies was very swift, and I'm certain that this response and the commitment which it showed to Fraserburgh and the industry has played a big part in persuading Young's to consider alternatives to closure.

“Although no decision has yet been taken, this news of a possible rethink offers a glimmer of hope that Young's - and its employees - can see a viable future for the company in Fraserburgh.”

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Fraserburgh Regeneration Scheme Funding Award Welcomed by Broch SNP Councillors

Local SNP councillors for Fraserburgh Brian Topping and Charles Buchan have hailed a funding award from the Heritage Lottery Fund for Fraserburgh as a tremendous boost to the town.

Aberdeenshire Council has been successful in a first-round funding bid from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for a scheme to regenerate Fraserburgh’s town centre.

The Fraserburgh Town Centre Heritage Regeneration Scheme has been awarded a first-round pass by the Heritage Lottery Fund (Townscape Heritage) and a grant of up to £58,000 is now available to further develop the proposals.

A second-round development bid for Townscape Funding will now be progressed during 2015-16 which, if successful, could access £1.8 million worth of funding for the completion of the scheme.

If approved, the funding would be used to support the regeneration of the built heritage of the town with examples of priority projects including historic properties in Saltoun Square, such as the Townhouse and former Police Station.

This category B-listed nineteenth-century building, with its Corinthian rotunda above the statue of Lord Saltoun, is one of the town’s most recognisable structures.

Aberdeenshire Council’s Policy and Resources Committee has already committed matched funding of £1 million to support the scheme.

An application has also been made to Historic Scotland (Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme) for £1.2 million and an announcement on the outcome of the bid is expected in the next few months.

£1.2 million of property and homeowners’ contributions is also expected and would take the total value of the scheme to the region of £5 million.

Subject to approval of the second-round application, the joint Conservation Area Regeneration/Townscape Heritage scheme would run from March 2016 until March 2021.

Vice-chairman of the Banff and Buchan Area Committee, SNP councillor Brian Topping, said:

© Aberdeenshire Council

“This funding is a vote of confidence in the people and businesses of Fraserburgh and we are grateful for the positive response and help received from the town towards these proposals.

“Although over the centuries Fraserburgh’s fortunes have risen and fallen in relation to harbour trade, fishing and military use, this funding is a step towards ensuring the town remains a beacon of historical significance and that its outstanding buildings are protected.

“I would like to thank the council officers who have worked extremely hard in preparing this application and who will no doubt continue to do so as the second-phase of funding bids opens.”

Cllr Charles Buchan added:

“This is great news for the Broch. Restoration of the historic centre of Fraserburgh will give a big lift to the town, and this substantial amount of cash will be a great help.

“Since being elected, I have realised the potential Conservation Area status would have for the town, and its ability to attract national funding. Fraserburgh was the first planned town in Scotland, and its streetscape is something Brochers should be proud of.”

Colin McLean, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said:

“The regeneration of town centres is an obvious way in which we as an organisation can make an important contribution to improving the economy of an area and the standard of living for the people resident there.

“Investing lottery money to revitalise historic buildings at the heart of a community, not only makes a place more attractive to live, visit and invest in, it also provides jobs and training opportunities for local people.

“We are delighted to make this award to Fraserburgh as part of our on-going commitment to preserving Scotland’s heritage in a way which is relevant to the needs of today.”

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Designation of Fraserburgh Town Centre as Conservation Area Could Unlock More Funding for Town

Proposals are being progressed for the designation of a Conservation Area in Fraserburgh Town Centre with associated funding bids to Historic Scotland (Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme) and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Funding will be used to support regeneration of the built heritage of the town and wider regeneration initiatives. The proposals form part of the overall regeneration drive in Fraserburgh which is supported by Aberdeenshire Council’s Regeneration Strategy.

The applications, and identification of match funding from council and other sources, were backed by councillors at today’s meeting of the Policy & Resources Committee.

Commenting, Fraserburgh SNP councillor Charles Buchan said:

“I’m delighted that this project, of which I have been a keen supporter since my election, is going ahead. This will help to give a much needed lift to the town centre, as there is a good possibility that outside grant money from Historic Scotland, and the National Lottery, will be available to give businesses up to 75% grants, on top of the existing Council funding for regeneration, such as in Retail Plus.

“Fraserburgh has a number of very important buildings in terms of their architectural merit and if this can be used to lever in more regeneration funding to support this aspect of our built heritage and further bring the town centre up to standard then I fully support it.

“I’m particularly pleased that the council have listened to the representations of myself and colleagues and the Council Chambers building is specifically earmarked for a sum of money. It is an important part of the Broch’s history and is a public building and access by the public and local organisations to it needs to be maintained.”

Fraserburgh SNP councillor Brian Topping added:

“This is more good news for Fraserburgh. While these are only bids for funding at this stage, I’m hopeful that the very strong case which will be presented for Fraserburgh, coupled with the examples of what has been achieved by the town working in partnership already, will give us the best possible chance of success.”

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SNP Councillors Welcome Small Grants Scheme for Banff's Bridge Street

A new small grants scheme and street improvement project for Bridge Street, Banff has been launched. The scheme, which is in partnership with Historic Scotland, is part of wider town centre improvements being carried out by Aberdeenshire Council in the town.

£500,000 covering a five-year period has been awarded from Historic Scotland for conservation-led regeneration in Banff.

Banff was awarded conservation status in 1973, defining it as an area of special architectural or historic interest in which it is desirable to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the area.

Awards of up to £10,000 will be available for owners of properties on Bridge Street to carry out a variety of works, including repairs to roofs, traditional windows and front doors, shop front restoration and reinstatement of architectural features.

Welcoming the scheme, Banff & District SNP councillor Ian Gray said:

“I’m pleased to see this coming forward and hope that it will help turn around the bridge Street area which has suffered in recent years.

“While regeneration measures are needed across a range of our communities, I think schemes which focus in on small areas can provide an important first step along the road to seeing the wider area benefit, and I hope that other such schemes will be forthcoming in future if this one proves successful.”

Vice-chairman of the Banff & Buchan Area Committee, Cllr Brian Topping added:

© Aberdeenshire Council

“The sense of place and character that is found in Banff is second to none and by enhancing the town’s conservation status, one of Aberdeenshire’s most valued historic places will be safeguarded.”

“It is very exciting that funding has been secured to allow renovations and repairs to these historic buildings.

“Any owners of properties on Bridge Street should attend this meeting as it will give them the opportunity to understand how the application process will work.

“I am also glad to see steps being taken to consult with the public over more general improvements to the street. I also encourage all those interested in seeing Banff flourish to attend to ensure we gain as much feedback as possible.”

If you require further information about the scheme, please contact: Aberdeenshire Council, Town House, Low Street, Banff, AB45 1AY or email christine.pert@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.

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Broch SNP Councillors Welcome Road Safety Crackdown

Local SNP councillors Charles Buchan and Brian Topping have commended Police Scotland on their ‘Operation CEDAR’ road safety initiative in the town which has yielded excellent results.

Police officers and special constables from the Fraserburgh & District Community Policing Team have carried out work over the past two weekends under Operation CEDAR in an effort to improve local road safety.

Officers have targeted places within Fraserburgh which were highlighted by the local community as being areas where speed, excess noise and general anti-social driving were giving them a cause for concern.

This intelligence led operation saw speed checks being carried out on Watermill Road, Harbour Road and Seaforth Street with a number of motorists being spoken to regarding their speed limit in built up areas.

With the dark nights fast approaching, officers have carried out stop checks on vehicles within the town centre to ensure tyres and lights were in working order. Motorists stopped were also issued with safety messages to ensure that they were aware of the importance of maintaining their vehicles in safe working order and the potential consequences of failing to do so.

Operation CEDAR (Challenge, Educate, Detect and Reduce) was launched in May 2014 by Police Scotland in a bid to highlight to drivers the known risks that can lead to serious and fatal collisions.

Over 30 vehicles were checked as part of Operation CEDAR and as a result, six people were charged with various lighting offences and one person has been reported for a drink driving offence.

Commenting, Cllr Charles Buchan said:

  

“I'm delighted that the police have responded to our concerns about bad driving and speeding by a few anti-social drivers in Fraserburgh and district.

“I thank the police for devoting resources and police officers, both from Fraserburgh, and from other stations in the area, to combat this problem that affects our community. If we can stop reckless driving and speeding and reduce injuries and deaths, much misery and unhappiness in local families will be avoided I am also grateful to our Community Councils, and the Fraserburgh Community Safety Group, for their valuable inputs to the operation. Operation Cedar builds on the successful Operation Rylestone, a few months ago, targeting all sorts of anti-social behaviour.”

Chair of Fraserburgh & District Community Safety Group Cllr Brian Topping added:

© Aberdeenshire Council

“I am glad that Police Scotland have carried out these speed checks and other motoring checks in Fraserburgh as the safety of both motorists and pedestrians are vitally important in our local communities. This will once again highlight to all the importance of being a safe and considerate driver.”

PC Christopher Bain who led the policing activity in Fraserburgh said:

"Once again residents have highlighted concerns around the inappropriate speed and inconsiderate manner of driving by some motorists in Fraserburgh.

"We have targeted the places identified by the community and this has resulted in a number of people being charged with various traffic offences.

"Given that dark nights have now set in, we also took the chance to carry out checks to ensure that car lights were in working order and tyres had enough tread.

"The focus of this operation was to remind drivers to check that their vehicles were correctly prepared and maintained for winter. At the same time we took the opportunity to convey a clear message to some drivers who ignore the law, and the message was that your actions endanger other road users, do so at your peril, you will be caught and the consequences may be long lasting for you.

"The safety of motorists and members of the public is paramount to Police Scotland, anyone with any concern is asked to contact us on 101."

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Home Bargains Planning Application Passed Despite Council Opposition

BOOST FOR FRASERBURGH ECONOMY WELCOMED
Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee (ISC) has approved the planning application from Home Bargains to build a store in Fraserburgh.

Supporting the Motion, Peterhead South councillor Stephen Smith said:

“Home Bargains has been a great success in Peterhead and Inverurie and have proved a popular draw for shoppers. I’m happy to support the same thing for Fraserburgh and hope that the existing traders in the town can capitalise on what should result in an increase in shoppers visiting from out of town.”

Fraserburgh councillors Brian Topping, who proposed approval of the application at the Banff & Buchan Area Committee, and Cllr Charles Buchan, who seconded the proposal, have also welcomed the decision.

Cllr Charles Buchan said:

“I am delighted with the decision of the Infrastructure Services Committee yesterday. The local Area Committee supported this development unanimously so I’m glad that this has been taken into account by the ISC.”

Cllr Brian Topping added:

“This is good news for the Broch. Other towns which have had a branch of Home Bargains opening up have benefitted from increased local employment opportunities as well as investment from a big name retailer. Had there been a big enough site in the Town Centre then that would clearly have been the preferred option but there wasn’t, so I’d rather have the investment being made in the Broch that not at all.”

Only four councillors voted against approval of the planning application, including ISC Chairman Cllr Peter Argyle (Lib Dem-Aboyne, Upper Deeside & Donside), Vice-Chairman Cllr Alan Buchan (Ind-Peterhead North) and Cllr Mike Roy (Con-Banff).

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Councillors Hear That 850 Hit by Tory/LibDem Bedroom Tax in Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire councillors heard today that over 850 locally have been hit by the Tory/Lib Dem UK Government’s decision to target tenants with the Bedroom Tax.

The discriminatory tax affects around 80,000 households in Scotland, 80 per cent of which are the home of a disabled adult, and 16,000 of which are the home of families with children.

In April 2013 more than 850 tenants in Aberdeenshire (approx 7% of the council’s housing stock) were affected by the Bedroom Tax, which reduces housing benefit by 14% for those deemed to have one bedroom more than they need, and 25% for those with two or more bedrooms extra.

Commenting SNP councillor Allison Grant (West Garioch) said:

“The UK Government has shown a reckless lack of care and attention to the consequences of the introduction of the Bedroom Tax for low-income households.

"In contrast the SNP Government is doing all it can to help mitigate the impact of this divisive policy and Nicola Sturgeon pledged that funding for Discretionary Housing Payments will continue next year with another £20 million to help victims of the London Government’s Bedroom Tax.

“The Scottish Parliament’s Welfare Reform Committee produced a report which shows that over 300 of those currently in rent arrears in Aberdeenshire are in arrears purely as a result of the Bedroom Tax. That is a shocking figure and it makes it all the more worrying that the Tory/Lib Dem/Labour administration in Aberdeenshire Council wouldn’t commit to removing the threat of eviction from those in arrears as a result of the Bedroom Tax.”

Fraserburgh & District councillor Brian Topping added:

“The UK Government is actually penalising people for not being able to move to one-bedroomed properties because previous Tory Governments sold them off and didn’t build replacements.

“A majority of Scottish MPs voted against the introduction of the Bedroom Tax yet it has still been imposed on us. Only a Yes vote in next year’s independence referendum will scrap the Bedroom Tax and we will not have governments we didn’t vote for imposing ridiculous policies like this on us.”

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Broch Councillors Back Police Operation

Fraserburgh & District SNP councillors Charles Buchan and Brian Topping have welcomed the outcome of the police operation at the weekend which saw teams of extra police officers deployed to target drug misuse and street-drinking.

A total of 20 extra officers carried out high-visibility patrols in Fraserburgh town centre on Friday, November 1, and Saturday, November 2, in their continued bid to stamp out anti-social behaviour.

Following the weekend action, a total of 12 people were charged for various offences, including a 22-year-old female in relation to an assault. One man was charged in connection with drink driving and two others for various road traffic offences. A total of four people were charged for breaching the peace, and three for urinating in public. In addition, around 15 cars were stopped as officers issued winter safety advice to drivers.

As part of the operation, drug itemisers and a portable 'archway' drug screening device were stationed in licensed premises throughout the town and around 200 people were swabbed for drugs. Officers also carried out bail and curfew checks on known offenders.

Commenting, Cllr Charles Buchan said:

“I fully support Inspector Brown and his team who planned a big operation in the Broch on the Friday and Saturday evenings to show a big street presence, to reduce anti-social behaviour, on-street drinking, youth disorder, drug offences, and giving advice to motorists.

“The team of police officers and special constables, drawn from all over the Grampian area, was led by Sergeant Sam Buchan. I was given the privilege of attending the team briefing, and got to accompany Sergeant Buchan and the officers in a late evening patrol. As well as the rounds of licensed premises, the patrol was busy all the time, with domestic incidents, drug scanning, motorist checks, and disorder incidents.

“This operation was a great idea, showing that the police service makes Fraserburgh a priority, and keeping our streets safe for our townspeople, and youth.”

Cllr Brian Topping added:

“I’m delighted that this police operation has been a huge success.

“It helps keep Fraserburgh a safe place but also serves to reinforce the message that there will be Zero Tolerance of such anti-social behaviour.”

Sergeant Sam Buchan, of Fraserburgh Community Policing Team, who led the operation, said:

"After listening to the concerns of local residents, we deployed extra officers this weekend to carry out high-visibility patrols in order to provide reassurance and safety.

"This operation, which also included road policing officers, divisional officers and special constables, highlights just what can be achieved when we deploy extra resources. Incidents that can normally take up a considerable amount of our time were resolved within hours as we had the extra patrols in place to tackle them.

"Officers also worked in partnership with local licensed premises in order to station drug itemisers in a bid to deter any anti-social behaviour.

"As part of a sustained effort, will continue to work to ensure we are keeping people safe in their local communities and we are committed to achieving that across Fraserburgh."

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Topping Welcomes Motorbike Safety Campaign

Chairman of Fraserburgh & District Community Safety Group and Broch councillor Brian Topping has welcomed the announcement that motorcycle safety campaign Operation Zenith has teamed up with the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) and their local groups to hold a motorcycle training course later this month.

Be A Better Biker is a one-day motorcycle safety awareness course which aims to improve the skills, knowledge and hazard awareness of bikers and reduce the number of road traffic collisions involving motorcyclists.

The course features presentations from trained police motorcyclists and a ride out with IAM observers, who will observe the biker’s riding style and offer constructive feedback on how to be safer on the roads. The day-long course also includes First Aid awareness specially tailored for motorcyclists and a session on motorcycle mechanical awareness.

Similar Bikesafe courses had been run regularly through the summer period as part of the Operation Zenith safety campaign, until the start of this year.

The special Be A Better Biker course will run on Sunday 28 July, from 9.30am until 5pm, at Woodhill House on Westburn Road in Aberdeen.

There are 12 places available. Places cost £20, the same price as previous Bikesafe courses.

Operation Zenith and the IAM have teamed up for a one-off event at the moment but the success of the day will be evaluated, with a view to considering further Be A Better Biker events later this year or in 2014.

To book a slot, email leanna.maclarty@aberdeenshire.gov.uk or phone 01224 664235. A packed lunch will be provided. A copy of your driving licence and proof of insurance and MOT will be required on the day.

Commenting, Councillor Brian Topping said:

“I’m delighted at this initiative and would highly commend it. We need to work as a community at reducing the number of road accidents in the North-east, particularly those involving motorcycles.

“Figures since March show that there is on average one accident per week involving a motorcyclist on North-east roads and some of the skills and expertise being passed on at courses like these may mean the difference between life and death so I would encourage bikers to get involved.”

Neil Warden, Regional Group Co-ordinator for the IAM in Scotland, said:

“Here in the north-east we have a large established biking community and some of the most exciting and challenging roads. However these roads if not treated with respect, can have serious or fatal consequences for all concerned.

This course is open to all bikers, who are looking to improve their riding skills as well as riders who have recently passed their test or any ‘born again biker’ that may be returning to two wheels after a long period of absence, and want to improve their confidence to come along and take part in this day. I would encourage all concerned to come along as they have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”

The most recent figures reveal that since March 1, there has been one fatal and 22 serious collisions involving motorcyclists on north-east roads. This figure is an improvement compared with the same time last year – three fatalities and 31 serious collisions – but more can be done.

Now in its fourth year, Operation Zenith is a partnership with Aberdeen City, Shire and Moray Councils, Police Scotland, the North East Safety Camera Partnership (NESCAMP), Community Safety Partnerships, the Scottish Ambulance Service, IAM and local motorcycle groups, Transport Scotland, BEAR Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Operation Zenith aims to reduce motorcycle casualty figures in Grampian by engaging with motorcyclists, raising awareness of motorbike safety issues and offering advice.

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Broch Councillors Welcome Choice of Town for Aberdeenshire Youth Games

School pupils across Aberdeenshire are being offered the chance to get into the spirit of next year’s Commonwealth Games, with a One Year To Go event. Up to 300 youngsters from across Aberdeenshire will be able to take part in the One Year To Go Aberdeenshire Youth Games in Fraserburgh on 17 August 2013.

The event will be held across a range of venues in Fraserburgh and will give young people aged 11 to 14 the chance to compete in a range of sports which will feature in next year’s Commonwealth Games, to be held in Glasgow.

Aberdeenshire Council has been awarded £10,000 from EventScotland to host the celebration.

Pupils will have a chance to try activities including basketball, swimming, gymnastics, hockey, rugby, tennis, cycling athletics and bowling, at the event being held at the Fraserburgh Community and Sport Centre and neighbouring facilities, including the Fraserburgh Fitness Centre and Kessock Park.

One Year To Go will also feature opening and closing ceremonies involving music and dance.

Commenting, Fraserburgh & District SNP councillor Charles Buchan said:

"It should be a great day, and could be a starter event for young people to participate in the many and varied sports that Fraserburgh and district has to offer.

“Our young people should be encouraged to attend by their parents and teachers, and to try as many new activities as they possibly can."

Fellow Fraserburgh & District SNP councillor Brian Topping added:

“I am delighted this event is coming to Fraserburgh - the same day as gala - and wish all competitors the very best. I hope that any visiting participants and supporters also find time to visit our many local attractions.”

sportscotland Chief Executive Stewart Harris said:

“With the Commonwealth Games now firmly on the horizon, it is wonderful that Aberdeenshire Council is set to hold an event which will undoubtedly captivate the imagination of all the pupils involved and we welcome this initiative.

“sportscotland is committed to ensuring more children and young people become involved in sport and physical activity and, through our Active Schools network and Community Sport Hubs, we are making significant progress.”

Chief Operating Officer at EventScotland, Paul Bush OBE, said:

“We are delighted to be working with Aberdeenshire Council in the delivery of what promises to be a fantastic event. The One Year To Go event epitomises what the Games for Scotland programme has been designed to accomplish; inspiring, motivating and engendering pride amongst the people of Scotland.

“With one year to go, the diverse programme of sport and dance events taking place across the country as part of the Games For Scotland project are undoubtedly extending the legacy of the Games far beyond the host city to the benefit of communities throughout Scotland.”

Youngsters can book a place at the One Year To Go event online (www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/holidayprogrammes) or by phoning Rachel Boal on 01467 628158.

The day is about fun and participation and no prior experience in any of the sports is necessary. All competitors will be able to try at least three sports, all supervised by council staff and local club coaches. All children will receive a T-shirt and a goody bag at the end of the day. Parents and carers are encouraged to come and watch the events and have a fun day out.

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Broch Councillors Express Disappointment as Council Brushes Aside Sheltered Housing Concerns

Fraserburgh & District SNP councillor Brian Topping has expressed his disappointment after his request for a full audit of the needs of Aberdeenshire's sheltered housing tenants was rejected by the Conservative/Independent-led administration of Aberdeenshire Council.

Speaking during the debate, Cllr Topping said:

“I meet regularly with the tenants of the various sheltered housing complexes in and around Fraserburgh and they are very clear in what they tell me, which is that since these cuts have been introduced, they do not feel they get the same standard of service which they had before.

“That’s not a reflection on the staff, who are doing a very good job in circumstances made difficult by the actions of the council’s administration. What makes it all the more galling is that with a £50million underspend over the last two years in the council, these cuts are totally unnecessary.”

Commenting on the debate at Full Council, SNP councillor Charles Buchan added:

"Anyone looking into this debate from the outside would have been unimpressed with the brittle and bad tempered response by leading members of the Tory/Independent-led Administration to the genuine concerns of sheltered housing residents.

"I welcome the tacit recognition that there is still much to do to provide the level of service desired on all sides. However, it's disappointing that the response of the administration leadership in this instance has once again been to try and shoot the messenger.

"The SNP Group pledged additional resource to tackle gaps in the warden service at the recent budget. We remain committed to working with anyone who will work alongside us to improve matters for the tenants and the wardens who work so hard to support them."

Of the four councillors representing Fraserburgh & District, Councillors Brian Topping and Charles Buchan backed the calls for an audit of service provision and tenant needs, while Councillors Ian Tait and Michael Watt supported the position of the Conservative/Independent administration for no change.

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Local SNP Councillors Attend Opening of New Broch Pool

Local SNP councillors Brian Topping and Charles Buchan attended yesterday’s open day at the new Fraserburgh Community and Sports Centre, which attracted hundreds of visitors on its first day, opening two months ahead of schedule.

The Fraserburgh Community and Sports Centre is the biggest facility of its kind in Aberdeenshire. Features include a 25m swimming pool and smaller learner pool; a flume; multi-use sports hall including gymnastic equipment; dance studio; training kitchen; two saunas and a steam room; a pop-up library and a number of multi-purpose rooms.

Vice-chair of the Banff & Buchan Area Committee, Fraserburgh SNP councillor Brian Topping, said:

“This facility is something that the people of Fraserburgh, and the wider Banff and Buchan area, can be proud of.

“Working in partnership with other leisure and community facilities in Fraserburgh, the new centre will mean a wide choice of activities for local people.”

Fellow Fraserburgh SNP councillor Charles Buchan added:

“This is great news for Fraserburgh and district. This is the best facility north of Stirling!

“This will give us a significant further attraction to the town. We and the Community have worked hard, and waited a long time, to get the new Fraserburgh Community and Sports Centre to the town, and the people of Fraserburgh deserve Aberdeenshire's newest and best sports facility.”

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North SNP Councillors Comment on Police and Fire Vote

Peterhead and Fraserburgh SNP Councillors have joined forces to express their disappointment following a decision by Aberdeenshire Council last week to pass the scrutiny of Aberdeenshire-wide police and fire services to the Council's busy Policy and Resources Committee.

Peterhead South and Cruden Councillor Stephen Smith and Fraserburgh and District SNP Councillor Brian Topping had backed calls for a new Council 'Blue Light' committee to be set up to oversee local police and fire services, following the move to Scotland-wide services next year. However, the SNP proposal was voted down by the ruling administration, with the full support of local 'Independent' councillors.

The new arrangements mean that the Buchan and Banff and Buchan areas of Aberdeenshire Council will have just one member each representing them area on the 14-strong committee when it comes to Aberdeenshire-wide fire and police matters. In contrast, the Garioch area has six Councillors on the committee, four of whom represent the Inverurie and District ward.

Scotland's eight regional police forces, in common with their corresponding fire services, are to merge to form a single national police and a single national fire service from April 2013. Although Scotland-wide boards will have strategic responsibility over the services, Scotland's 32 local authorities have been given a free hand in deciding what local accountability measures they wish to put in place.

At the full council meeting, Councillors backed a proposal supported by the Aberdeenshire Council administration, which transferred the remaining work of the Grampian Police and Fire Joint Boards to the Council's Policy and Resources committee.

SNP councillors had earlier voiced fears that parts of Aberdeenshire risked coming off a poor second to areas which are better represented on the Policy and Resources Committee.

In order to redress the imbalance, the SNP had proposed that a stand alone Public Safety Committee of 18 councillors be established, which would draw on 3 members from each of the six council Area Committees. As well as overseeing local police and fire services, the new 'Blue Light' committee would also have taken on responsibility for community safety and emergency planning.

Commenting, Vice-Convener of Grampian Fire & Rescue Joint Board Cllr Stephen Smith said:

“I’m disappointed the council’s Administration Group has opted to go down this route.

“I don’t think it’s treating the police and fire services with the level of attention they deserve if we simply make them an agenda item in an already busy committee. We owed it to the staff and the general public to have a robust system in place for scrutiny and governance arrangements locally.

“In particular, today’s decision means that there is very limited scope for the views of staff bodies such as the Fire Brigades Union to engage with councillors under the new arrangements.

“This is a lost opportunity to put in place a new system which would have led to increased transparency and a greater level of engagement on police and fire issues.”

Councillor Topping, who is also a member of the Grampian Fire Board, said he was “disappointed” at the outcome.

“It's particularly disappointing given that the make-up of Policy and Resources Committee will mean that the North is very poorly represented when it comes to these vital matters of public safety.

“Local Independent Councillors who either voted for this or in one case didn't bother turning up at all have let their constituents down.

“This is a lost opportunity to put in place a new system which would have led to increased transparency and a greater level of engagement on police and fire issues.”

Note: The current 14-member Policy and Resources committee contains six councillors from the Garioch area, three from Formartine, two from Marr, and just one each from the Kincardine and Mearns, Buchan and Banff & Buchan areas.

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