Councillors Hail Broch Launch of Royal Conservatoire's NE Hub

Councillors from the SNP/Labour Partnership in Aberdeenshire attended Friday night’s launch of the North-east Hub of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) in Fraserburgh’s Dalrymple Hall.

Bringing an RCS Hub to Fraserburgh was one of the key commitments of the SNP/Labour Partnership when in Administration in Aberdeenshire Council to assist in the area’s cultural and artistic regeneration.

The launch event on Friday night was attended by former Chair and Vice-Chair of the council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee, Councillors Alison Evison and Charles Buchan, as well as former Provost of Aberdeenshire Hamish Vernal.

Cllr Alison Evison (Scottish Labour-North Kincardine) said:

"It was really exciting to be able to attend the official launch of the Royal Conservatoire's North-east Hub on Friday, marking an important step in the evolving collaboration between Aberdeenshire Council and the Royal Conservatoire, which had been set in train by our innovative and visionary SNP/Labour Administration in February 2017.

“With our consistent focus on music, art and culture as key contributors to individual and community development as well as to the local economy, we had recognised how the opportunities offered by the Royal Conservatoire could enhance the existing arts tradition in Fraserburgh and other Aberdeenshire towns.

“The value we place on this activity is clear - not only through this Hub, but also in our active support for music tuition in schools; our recognition of the key skills which visiting specialists have to offer and in another development on which the SNP and Labour led when in Administration - the setting up of Aberdeenshire's own pipe band."

Cllr Charles Buchan (SNP-Fraserburgh & District) said:

“We quickly realised that regeneration of Fraserburgh was not only about economic development. We had to help the development of our local heritage and culture to improve our pride in our town. The tie-up with the world-leading Royal Conservatoire of Scotland was an ideal opportunity to serve our young people through dance, traditional and other music, theatre skills and song.

“I’m so pleased that the showcase we saw in Fraserburgh has proved the immense value of the tie-up. Bringing the Conservatoire to Fraserburgh is proportionally equivalent to the arrival of the V and A Museum to Dundee. I’m delighted that this project, championed by the SNP and Labour when we were in Administration in the council, has come to fruition.”

Former Provost of Aberdeenshire Hamish Vernal added:

“I was delighted to be invited to attend the formal launch of the Fraserburgh Hub. It was clear from speaking to those involved that this will be a very welcome addition to the town and the enthusiasm of the youngsters who were performing was a pleasure to see.”

Andrew Comrie, Director of Academic Innovation, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland said:

“This is a ground-breaking and innovative programme designed in partnership and with the initial aim to provide local access for young people in the North East to our Junior Conservatoire programmes in music, acting, dance and film as well as to our successful Transitions 20/40 programme which provides access to immersive training for young people living in the most disadvantaged parts of Scotland who show potential and commitment to pursuing study in the performing arts.”

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Questions Asked over Absence of Conservative Committee Chair and Vice-Chair

Councillors have raised questions over the commitment of local Conservative councillors after the Banff & Buchan Area Committee was today (Tuesday) left without a Chair or a Vice-Chair and had to elect a stand-in.

A storm erupted after it emerged both the Chair and Vice-Chair of that Committee - Conservatives Andy Kille Michael Roy – were both absent on holiday. The position of Chair attracts a payment of just under £9000 per year for carrying out that function.

The dates for meetings of the Banff & Buchan Area Committee were known well in advance of May’s Local Government elections and opposition councillors argue that in addition to a full-time commitment, the absence of key representatives is a betrayal of election promises to truly represent constituents in a committed way.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Audit Committee and SNP councillor for Troup ward Ross Cassie said:

“I don’t understand why people put themselves up for election and then do not make an attempt to represent the people and the communities in the ward that elected them.”

“Back in May our local Tories were very vocal about their electoral success and who wouldn’t be? However, with that success comes a responsibility to the positions to which you have been elected. As today is not an incident in isolation, this demonstrates a clear lack of discipline within the local Conservative Party, and a clear lack of conscience on the part of the elected members who have seemingly decided that a holiday is more important than representation. We have lengthy recesses in the council calendar in line with school holidays when there are many opportunities for holidaying outwith the committee timetables.”

SNP Councillor for Fraserburgh & District, Charles Buchan added:

“It has become very clear since the May local elections that some of our Conservative councillors are not taking their work seriously. For both the Chair and Vice-Chair to deliberately clear off on another holiday, missing one of the most important meetings for Banff & Buchan, shows a lack of commitment to the people they represent, including the people with planning applications to be determined, and those who will be affected financially by Area decisions.

“They appear to be copying the antics of Moray Tory MP Douglas Ross who also disappeared from his day job.”

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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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Fear of Another Tory Sell-Out on Fishing Grow

Fears of another sell-out of the fishing industry grew this week with the publication of the UK Government’s White Paper on leaving the EU.

Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Fisheries Working Group and Fraserburgh SNP councillor Charles Buchan said the brief mention of fishing in the White Paper, which has only 75 pages, gave him great concern that the UK Government was gearing-up to repeat the sell-out of the fishing industry first perpetrated in the 1970s.

Commenting on the development, Cllr Charles Buchan said:

“I’m very uneasy about what has been announced in the Tory Government’s White Paper and I know that the Prime Minister’s comment last week about Spanish fishermen has made many people in the industry fearful about what may be coming down the line.

“The bottom line here is that the UK is leaving the EU and I fully support efforts to make the best possible deal from that situation as we can. The SNP has long-argued to leave the CFP and that will be extremely beneficial to the industry – it represents a “sea of opportunity” as the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation have said.

“What we don’t want or need is for that opportunity to be traded away by the Conservative Government as it did in 1972 because it thinks it can safely use fishing as a bargaining chip in its negotiations. The pronouncements of the last few days from Westminster make me very fearful we are about to see history repeat itself and we must stop that from happening for the sake of our coastal communities.”

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Broch Pilots Successful Police Service Young Volunteers Scheme

A Broch councillor has hailed the decision to pilot a Police Scotland national initiative aimed at young people as a tremendous success.

Fraserburgh was chosen to pilot the innovative scheme to help young people get involved in the community.

It has proved very popular, with the volunteers receiving their first year awards at a ceremony held in the town’s Assembly of God Church recently. The awards were made by Police Superintendent Thomson, Divisional Commander for the North-east.

Cllr Charles Buchan with PSYV scheme participants
Regan Ingram and Daisy Andrews

The Young Volunteers, led by PC George Sangster, have been involved in multiple events in the town and surrounding district, including Super Saturdays and the ‘Your Voice, Your Choice’ community event.

Commenting, local SNP councillor Charles Buchan said:

“This has been extremely successful. Of the original 20 volunteers, mainly from Fraserburgh Academy, 18 have stayed the course, and there has been no shortage of replacements.

“The Young Volunteers have put in thousands of hours of community work between them, and I thank them for giving up their leisure time to help others. They have made a big contribution to Fraserburgh community activities.”

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Active Schools Aberdeenshire Launch Social Media Presence

A programme which gives Aberdeenshire’s school children opportunities to lead active and healthy lifestyles has branched out onto social media to boost links with pupils, parents and local communities across the area and beyond.

Through Active Schools Aberdeenshire, pupils have the chance to take part in a variety of sports activities before, during and after school, and now you can follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Three Facebook pages for North, Central and South Aberdeenshire have been set up as well as a Twitter feed which the Active Schools team is using to promote events as well as follow-up features, video clips and photos of activities.

Vice-Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education, Learning & Leisure committee, Cllr Charles Buchan (SNP-Fraserburgh & District), said:

“The Active Schools team in Aberdeenshire have enjoyed great success recently and just last week two schools received Gold School Sport Awards from sportscotland for innovation in delivering PE and extra-curricular sport.

“These are the kind of achievements the new Facebook and Twitter feeds will be celebrating, as well as promoting events such as the recent Santa run in Ellon or the Fit4Girls programme.

“I’m pleased that the programme has joined the digital age and look forward to seeing the pages grow as word spreads of the ongoing success of pupils and staff in Aberdeenshire.”

To keep up-to-date with what’s happening with Active Schools in your area search for the groups on Facebook:

• Active Schools Aberdeenshire North
• Active Schools Aberdeenshire Central
• Active Schools Aberdeenshire South

You can also follow Active Schools Aberdeenshire on Twitter through the handle @ASAberdeenshire.

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Have Your Say on Education & Childrens' Services in Aberdeenshire

A plan setting out the future direction of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services over the next three years is now open for public comment.

The plan sets out the council’s priorities on the delivery of a wide range of services including schools, nurseries, cultural services, family centres, leisure facilities and community learning.

The council is asking for feedback on seven priority areas that have been identified to help shape the wider aims of the service, including:

• improving learning and teaching and the quality of the curriculum in our schools, early years and other learning establishments
• taking an evidence-based approach to raise levels of attainment and close the gap which sees children and young people living in relative deprivation less likely to achieve their full potential
• transforming our services to give every child the best possible start in life by effectively supporting them and their families and providing targeted intervention where necessary
• making sure our buildings create an inclusive and positive environment for learning, working and engagement
• supporting our communities to become healthy and vibrant by promoting and delivering healthy activities and reduce health inequalities
• developing effective partnership working so children and families receive the support they need, when they need it, and as far as possible, within their local communities
• investing in the learning and development of our staff to build a highly-skilled workforce and improve leadership at every level

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education, Learning and Leisure Committee, Cllr Alison Evison, said:

“Education and Children’s Services are relevant to everyone in Aberdeenshire who uses the schools, libraries or sports and leisure facilities.

“We’ve had some tremendous achievements over the past few years and we are looking to build on those.

“That’s why we want to hear from the people living and working here, so we can take their views into account as we look to the future.”

Vice-chair of the committee, Cllr Charles Buchan, said:

“This plan will give the service a strategic focus for the next few years and will allow us to strengthen connections with local communities.

“The consultation is open to everyone and this is their opportunity to tell us which direction they would like Education & Children’s Services to take over the next three years.”

To comment on the Education and Children’s Services Plan 2016-2019 please visit https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ECS_SP_2016

The consultation will run until Sunday, August 28 and printed copies are available from: Sarah Godfrey, Education and Children’s Services, Woodhill House, Aberdeen, AB16 5GB.

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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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£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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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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Buchan Hails £2m Boost to Local Economic Projects

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Fisheries Working Group Cllr Charles Buchan has hailed the results delivered by the Aberdeenshire European Fisheries Fund (AEFF) and the economic boost given to projects and businesses in Fraserburgh, Macduff, Banff, Whitehills and Portsoy.

More than £650,000 of economic development funding has helped deliver £2.1million of projects in the North-east's coastal communities.

At the start of this month, the 2012-2015 AEFF funding programme officially closed. Financed by the European Commission, the programe was administered locally by the Aberdeenshire Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) partnership, in which Aberdeenshire Council is the lead partner.

Applicants were awarded more than £650,000 in Axis 4 EFF grants, helping to deliver a total value of £2.1million of projects.

The programme funded 24 projects promoting economic diversification both within and outwith the fishing industry; building capacity in communities, creating training and job opportunities and revitalising fisheries areas. Two new businesses and 27 full time jobs were created as a direct result.

Projects included the conversion of an unused fisheries building at Whitehills Marina into a high quality seafood restaurant. “The Galley” opened in summer 2013 and has proved extremely popular with local residents, tourists and harbour users. It aims to create a seafood culinary experience by showcasing locally-landed produce, improving the offering for visitors and tourists.

The Scottish Traditional Boat Festival organisation successfully restored a derelict building at Portsoy Harbour into a Boatshed. The newly-restored building will provide all-year-round boat building training and enable young people to learn new skills including rope and sail making and rigging.

Macduff Shipyards, Macduff’s largest employer, was funded to install a new boat launching ramp way at Macduff Harbour. The project has helped increase efficiency and reduce costs for the company in the long term by ensuring that a purpose-built, inclined concrete ramp can launch steel tugs directly into the water, eliminating the need to transport vessels to the water by crane.

Fraserburgh Harbour benefited from two AEFF-funded projects, including the installation of pontoons allowing 30-40 smaller vessels to use the port on a regular basis. This transformed the harbour’s South Basin, developing it into a community asset and enabling Harbour Commissioners to diversify further through increased trade and income from extra berthing capabilities.

WiFi was installed in both Fraserburgh fish markets, after users expressed concerns about mobile phone connectivity during daily fish auction sales.

A one-tonne ice machine was installed at Banff Harbour to benefit the inshore fishermen of the Moray Firth coast. This Aberdeenshire Council-led project allows local fishermen to obtain ice easily and convieniently, helping to maintain the freshness of locally-landed seafood and increasing the quality and saleability of products. The aim is to support the local inshore fishing community and increase economic potential by strengthening competitiveness.

The Fisheries Local Action Group has undertaken an evaluation of the AEFF programme to measure the success of its delivery and assess how well priorities in the Local Development Strategy have been met. An Evaluation Study has since been developed and will be publicly available in due course.

Commenting, Cllr Charles Buchan said:

“It was a pleasure to visit some of the projects and businesses along the Banffshire coast recently who have benefitted from this funding programme.

“I pay tribute to the small team at Aberdeenshire Council who have worked with the community to raise awareness of these funding opportunities and for the work they have done in guiding applicants through the process.

“The projects concerned are excellent examples of how such a scheme can help local communities to deliver an economic boost to their area by supporting local entrepeneurs.”

Aberdeenshire Council's Head of Economic Development and FLAG chair, Belinda Miller, said:

"The projects approved during the AEFF programme will provide a lasting legacy in Aberdeenshire’s fisheries areas.

“AEFF has delivered a wide range of projects that collectively improve people’s lives and businesses in the area through the provision of regeneration, diversification and capacity building.

“The fund has provided real opportunities for economic and social prosperity in coastal communities through the creation of jobs, new businesses and training provided.

“My thanks go to all those public sector bodies that provided the co-finance to match the Axis 4 grants, as well as the AEFF team who administered the programme”.

The council’s European Team is now focusing its attention on the new EMFF (European Maritime Fisheries Fund) programme in the hope of securing a further allocation of Axis 4 fisheries funds for Aberdeenshire in the new European Funded period from 2014 to 2020.

When the Aberdeenshire FLAG has a new allocation of funding confirmed, events will be arranged in coastal areas to inform potential applicants about the eligibility criteria.

It is anticipated that this new fund would be launched in January 2016.

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SNP Welcomes Investment in Buchan Bus Services

Local SNP councillors and Aberdeenshire East SNP candidate Gillian Martin have welcomed the launch of 17 new luxury coaches on the Aberdeen to Peterhead and Fraserburgh routes which boast leather reclining seats, free wi-fi, toilet, USB charging points and bike lockers.

 Cllr Lenny Pirie, Cllr Stephen Smith, Gillian Martin, & Cllr Charles Buchan

The new buses were launched by Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment & Cities Keith Brown MSP at an event in Aberdeen.

Commenting, Gillian Martin said:

“I’m delighted Stagecoach are showing their commitment to Buchan by investing £5½ million in this new fleet of coaches.

“The vehicles are very impressive and should do much to improve passenger comfort on these very important routes into and out of Aberdeen.”

Fraserburgh & District SNP councillor Charles Buchan said:

“This is excellent news for Fraserburgh and I’m very pleased our connection to Aberdeen will be the first to benefit from these type of coaches in the North of Scotland.”

Central Buchan SNP councillor Lenny Pirie said:

“Links to the city are very important from rural areas and these routes reward Stagecoach with 25,000 passenger journeys every week, so it’s good that this loyalty is being rewarded in turn with these fantastic new vehicles by Stagecoach.”

Vice-Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee and Peterhead South & Cruden councillor Stephen Smith said:

“These new coaches will be warmly welcomed by those who use the Aberdeen service. It brings passenger comfort to a whole new level.”

Keith Brown MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment & Cities said:

“It is great to see this superb new fleet of Stagecoach buses, which will bring real benefits for passengers and the environment, hit the road. Alongside investment like this by operators such as Stagecoach, the Scottish Government is investing record amounts in public transport - providing over £250 million a year to fund the Bus Service Operators Grant as well as free bus travel for elderly and disabled concession card holders.

“We want to see quality and comfortable alternatives to the car through investment in greener, more efficient vehicles that can help link communities, people, places of business and employment and essential services. The new Buchan Xpress brand is an excellent example of the type of vehicle and service we want to see if we are to make bus travel an attractive option.”

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Personalise Your Library Account with new Online Service

Aberdeenshire library users will benefit from a new and improved online service when it comes into force later this month.

As part of the changes to the electronic library management system, customers will be able to manage their library accounts from home, build a profile of their favourite authors or genres and receive recommendations when new books are added to library stock.

The service will be available from Wednesday 28 October although data transferral will begin on Wednesday 21 October.

During this time, although libraries will be open and function as usual it will not be possible to place reservations. Access to computers through the People’s Network will be unaffected as will customers’ ability to download ebooks, magazines and music.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education, Learning and Leisure Committee, Councillor Alison Evison (Labour-North Kincardine), said:

“This is an exciting step that will allow library users to manage their profiles in a way that suits them, with extra benefits such as book recommendations based on a reader’s favourite author.

“With an increasing number of services available online, the council is leading the way in ensuring users can quickly access the information they need and providing a personalised services to cater to all tastes.”

Vice-chair of the committee, Councillor Charles Buchan (SNP-Fraserburgh & District), said:

“Along with these improvements, school libraries will now also be fully integrated thanks to new system.

“This will allow pupils and teachers to borrow materials from both school and branch libraries throughout Aberdeenshire with a single library card.”

To view the selection of books, audiobooks and ebooks available through the council please visit http://bit.ly/shirelibrarybooks.

To access the council’s free music download service visit http://bit.ly/shiremusicdownload.

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Cairnbulg Beach-Clean Highlighted

Three organisations based in the North-east are joining forces this month to highlight the problems caused by marine litter and are seeking volunteers to help take action to clear an Aberdeenshire beach.

Aberdeenshire Council, KIMO UK and the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation have organised a beach clean at Cairnbulg between 11.00am-3.00pm on Sunday 20 September to coincide with the Marine Conservation Society’s Great British Beach Cleaning Weekend.

The event is supported by a host of industry bodies including Fraserburgh Harbour, Scottish Fishermen’s Organisation, Aberdeen Fish Producers Organisation, Skippers Choice, Lunar, Caley Fisheries and food suppliers Brakes.

The rocky foreshore and sandy beach at Cairnbulg attract large numbers of birds throughout the year which feast on the insects amongst the mounds of kelp.

The beach is also home to the shipwreck of the Banff-registered Sovereign, a fishing vessel that ran aground in December 2005, images of which were used in promotional materials for 2012 film Life of Pi.

More recently however, increased litter on the beach is causing concern with rubber boots, plastic bags and bottles among the rubbish being found there.

Cairnbulg SNP councillor and Chair of the council’s Fisheries Working Group Charles Buchan said:

“Cairnbulg is a very special fishing village, set in a conservation zone, in beautiful surroundings, and its beach and rocky foreshore should not be diminished by unsightly deposits of seaborne litter.

“I would urge everyone to join the families of the villages in some fresh air exercise, and at the same time make a contribution to the community, as well as enjoying socialising at the barbeque, which will be held as a ‘thank you’ to those taking part.”

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

“Aberdeenshire’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the country and we want to keep them that way.

“Marine litter is not only an eyesore but kills thousands of sea birds, fish and mammals ever year and can cause significant environmental damage.

“By supporting this event at Cairnbulg, you will also be taking part in the Marine Conservation Society’s Great British Beach Clean weekend and you will not only improve the local environment but help take a great step in reducing the harm done to our wildlife by marine litter.”

Chairman of KIMO UK, Cllr Raymond Christie, said:

“If doing your bit for the environment isn’t enough, our generous sponsors will be supplying over 40kg of seafood for a complimentary barbeque taking place as a thank you to volunteers taking part in the beach clean.

“Everyone is welcome and equipment, including gloves, will be provided, so please do come along and help us clear up Cairnbulg!”

Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

As part of KIMO’s Fishing for Litter initiative, fishing vessels in Scotland have already voluntarily removed more than 870 tonnes of marine litter from Scotland’s seas and landed it at participating ports for safe disposal, helping stop the litter from reaching the beaches in the first place.

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Education Vice-Chair Highlights Teaching Course Opportunities

An information evening will be held on Tuesday 8 September from 6.00pm-7.00pm at Inverurie Academy to provide information about a part-time postgraduate teaching course open to residents of Aberdeenshire and council staff.

The 18-month-course for people to train as primary school teachers starts in January 2016 and is a partnership between Aberdeenshire Council and the University of Aberdeen called DLITE: Distance Learning Initial Teacher Education.

Following completion of the part-time postgraduate teaching qualification (PGDE) in June 2017 aspiring teachers will then begin as a probationer in an Aberdeenshire primary school at the start of term in August 2017.

Vice-chair of the Education, Leisure & Learning Committee Councillor Charles Buchan said:

“We have so many talented staff and residents that can bring guidance, support and inspiration to young people.

“If you have ever thought about teaching as a career but aren’t quite sure and want to learn more then the event in September is sure to provide you with lots to think about.”

The DLITE programme has already seen 15 employees embark on their induction year in Aberdeenshire primary schools.

One such employee is Elaine Duffy, who was a project and policy coordinator within the Education and Children’s Service before joining the course and is now on her probation year. She said:

“I couldn’t have taken the risk of leaving my job to do teaching training and continue to pay the bills for my family so the course was ideal as it allowed me to study whilst working.”

In addition, a second cohort of 13 Aberdeenshire employees and residents are now part way through their studies on the programme and will finish next summer.

The part-time, distance learning, programme includes hands-on learning as well as e-learning such as engaging in online discussions on key curriculum and professional studies topics.

Course participants can expect 18 weeks of placement experience in a primary school; workshops (eight Saturday ‘network’ days); self-study; collaborative group work as well as professional practice on placement.

In order to qualify to join the DLITE programme, you must either work for Aberdeenshire Council or live in Aberdeenshire. Candidates will be supported to study part-time and mostly online with the university alongside their normal working hours.

You must also already have a degree from a recognised university and meet the entry requirements for the University of Aberdeen (Higher English and Standard Grade Mathematics at credit grade or equivalent).

Candidates will also need experience working with children in a school, child care or voluntary setting.

For further information, or to register your interest in the programme, please contact Margaret Khan by emailing Margaret.khan@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.

For an insight into teaching in Aberdeenshire watch this short film: http://bit.ly/teachyfilm

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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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Broch Councillor Welcomes Police Clampdown on Dangerous Parking

Fraserburgh SNP councillor Charles Buchan has welcomed a police clampdown on dangerous and illegal parking in the town.

Following recent complaints from the community, officers have been carrying out a week of action under Operation CEDAR (Challenge, Educate, Detect and Reduce), an ongoing road safety campaign designed to reduce the number of serious and fatal road traffic collisions across the local area.

This phase of the Operation mainly focussed on illegal parking around the communities' primary schools and the excessive speed of some drivers as they pass these schools, with attention also given to complaints of illegal parking in the High Street and Broad Street areas of the town centre.

Almost 50 tickets were issued to drivers who were found to be illegally parked and with the assistance of the local Roads Policing officers 15 drivers were educated for driving at excessive speeds near the schools and school crossing patrols.

Commenting, Cllr Charles Buchan said:

“I would like to thank Police Scotland, and Inspector Stewart Drummond and his team, for their effective action in alleviating risk for the public, especially children, due to poor parking.

“Inspector Drummond has newly taken up his post in Fraserburgh, and by being active on illegal parking, has helped other road users, pedestrians, parents, and businesses greatly. Since Operation CEDAR, the situation has vastly improved, and I hope the police can continue to monitor bad parking in Fraserburgh.”

Sergeant MacDonald, who ran this phase of the Operation and is based in the Fraserburgh office, said:

"It was reassuring to see that the number of cars parked dangerously or illegally outside primary schools plummeted after the first two days of the Operation.

"It didn't take long for parents to get the message that we were not willing to compromise on child safety. It was also good to hear from the parents who spoke with officers that we were being fully supported and they understood why we had resorted to this course of action."

The Operation also received very good feedback through social media where the public have identified other primary schools in the Aberdeenshire and Moray areas where dangerous driving and illegal parking has been a problem.

Sergeant MacDonald said:

"I have passed these concerns onto the Area Inspectors in these other towns and villages and they will be looking to take action accordingly. In the meantime, there will be regular enforcement at the Fraserburgh primary schools where officers will continue to reduce dangerous parking."

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