City Lib Dem budget proposals focus on Education, the Environment and Road Repairs

At this week’s budget meeting Aberdeen’s Liberal Democrat councillors proposed investing in education, protecting the city’s libraries, abolishing the Garden Tax, repairing crumbling roads and pavements and enhancing Aberdeen’s environment at Aberdeen City Council’s budget meeting.

Liberal Democrat Group Leader Ian Yuill said: “The Liberal Democrats’ priorities are education, the environment and repairing Aberdeen’s crumbling roads and pavements.

“Our proposals create a £1 million Education Fund, abolish the hated Garden Tax and invest in properly maintaining Aberdeen’s roads and pavements. Things that affect the whole city. It is important that the council gets the basics right.”

Key points of the Liberal Democrats’ budget proposals included:

  • Creating a £1 million Education Fund to enhance educational opportunities across Aberdeen.
  • Abolishing the Garden Tax, the unpopular charge made to collect residents’ garden waste from brown bins.
  • Investing an extra £9.5 million over five years in repairing roads and pavements across Aberdeen. This would pay to resurface over 50 miles of road surface.
  • Investing in improving Aberdeen’s environment – including tree planting, enhancing biodiversity and decarbonising the council’s fleet of lorries, vans and cars by 2030.
  • Investigating the feasibility of planting rose beds at key points alongside Anderson Drive.
  • Investigating generating green energy using ground source heat pumps in council playing fields and parks.
  • A 3.74% increase in council tax.

Ian Yuill said, “Despite the savage cuts forced on the council by the SNP Scottish Government, the Liberal Democrat have managed to focus resources on our priorities of education, the environment and repairing Aberdeen’s roads and pavements.”

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Clova Park

Start Date and Time : 16 March 2020 07:30 
End Date and Time : 16 March 2020 17:30

Location : Clova Park

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30 – 17:30 on 16th March 2020, is to impose a prohibition of waiting on Clova Park, from its junction with Kingswells Drive to no.5 Clova Park.

The restrictions are necessary to protect public safety during resurfacing works. 

Tougher Measures To Remove Politicians Convicted Of Serious Offences

A former Conservative councillor on Aberdeen City Council remains in office following his conviction for sexual assault last December. His conduct is currently under investigation by the Ethical Standards Commissioner to establish whether or not he broke the Councillors Code Of Conduct. Councillor Alan Donnelly was suspended from his role for three months by the Standards Commission on 5 March, pending the outcome of that investigation.

Currently a councillor may not be removed from office following a conviction unless they are sentenced to at least 12 months imprisonment and there are no restrictions on a convicted councillor’s duties following their conviction, but that looks like it is about to change.

Following the conviction, Liberal Democrat Group Leader, Ian Yuill, reported the matter to Ethical Standards Commissioner. The council’s Urgent Business Committee unanimously removed Councillor Donnelly from all council committees and his positions on external organisations which require councillor representatives and also reported the matter to the Ethical standards Commissioner. In addition, all political group leaders called on Councillor Donnelly to resign.

However, although he resigned from the Conservative Party, Councillor Donnelly has continued to sit as an independent councillor, supporting his former Conservative, Aberdeen Labour and Independent Alliance coalition colleagues to pass measures this week which retained their majorities on all council committees despite them having lost that majority in the council itself. He also attended a civic event a few weeks ago.

Liberal Democrat councillor Steve Delaney said, “I was horrified to see Councillor Donnelly attend an event held in January to celebrate 25 years of good work from a local charity which supports some of the most vulnerable people in society, just seven days after his sentencing. I considered his presence to be inappropriate and subsequently raised my concerns”.

“I contacted the council’s Chief Executive asking that political group leaders meet to discuss at what measures can be put in place to prevent him from attending civic functions and prevent him from having unsupervised contact with members of the public in the course of his duties as a councillor. The Lord Provost has subsequently advised the council that Councillor Donnelly will not be attending civic events for the duration of the time he is on the Sex Offenders Register or whilst still under investigation by the Standards Commission”

“I also contacted the Kevin Stewart MSP, Minister for Local Government , asking that appropriate legislation be brought forward urgently to introduce appropriate measures to protect the public in such circumstances. The Minister has since advised that work by civil servants to look at how future legislation could be strengthened to remove councillors in these circumstances is indeed being expedited”.

Meanwhile Liberal Democrat MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton is promoting legislation which would require elected members at all levels to be disclosure checked at each election with strict criteria specified to ensure the protection of children and vulnerable adults should any elected member fall foul of those checks.

Steve said, “This has now gone beyond the actions of an individual and has highlighted serious flaws in the system. Councils currently have no powers to either remove a councillor convicted of a serious offence or indeed to monitor or restrict their activities following conviction. What this case has demonstrated is that the legislation needs to be tightened up and I’m pleased to see this is what looks like happening”.

Haudagain Roundabout Update

The following press release has been issued by Transport Scotland. Looks like it might be best to avoid the Haudagain for the next few weekends if at all possible.

Weekend lane closures on A96 Auchmill road

Road users are advised of lane closures on the A96 Auchmill Road at the Haudagain Roundabout for four consecutive weekends beginning Friday 21 February 2020.

The A96 weekend lane closures will allow preparatory work to be undertaken to construct the new A92/A96 Haudagain Improvement link road junction.

The lane closures will commence at 7 PM each Friday evening until 7 AM each Monday morning, to allow continuous 24 hour working.

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said:

“The work planned for the A96 Auchmill road will be carried out during weekends to minimise disruption to road users where possible. Drivers are asked to approach the area with caution.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank the public for their continued patience and co-operation. We ask road users to continue to be mindful of the safety of our workforce as you drive though this area.”

The project will, upon completion, help to reduce congestion and improve journey time reliability on this key route, as well as providing a safer route for pedestrians and cyclists.

Completion of the project is expected in Spring 2021.

Kingswells South Junction Upgrade Scheduled for April

Transport Scotland have put forward a proposal to Aberdeen City Council to help resolve both safety concerns and excessive queueing at the Kingswells South junction of the AWPR. at peak times.

Liberal Democrat councillor Steve Delaney has been campaigning for intervention at this junction for the last year, following a number of accidents, occurring on an almost daily basis.

He said, “The solution put forward by Transport Scotland is for the junction to be fully signalised with traffic signals on the roundabout itself and the two slip roads”.

“Thankfully these will not operate on a fixed timed basis like the Kingswells roundabout but will instead be triggered by traffic volumes. They will be linked into the council’s intelligent traffic management system which monitors all other movements on surrounding routes with the aim of optimising the number of vehicles getting through the junction whilst ensuring public safety”.

These works are expected to commence in April and last for about six weeks.

Steve continued, “I had concerns about works clashing with the closure of the C128C Kingswells to Countesswells road, but have received assurances the intention is for the AWPR junction upgrade to be carried out during off-peak hours”.

“There are bound to be delays during these works but the aim is to keep these to the minimum. Given the high number of accidents over the past year or so, it’s vital the works are carried out as soon as possible”.

New Services to replace Stagecoach’s X17 at Kingswells Park & Ride

Stagecoach has announced a number of their bus routes in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. These changes will affect the current X17 route, the less frequent 218 service and the 747 airport service.

Local councillor Steve Delaney said, “”The most significant change for our area is the proposal to replace the X17 with three different services. Heading to and from the City Centre you can catch one of these three services every 10 minutes (Mon-Sat). If you’re travelling to Westhill, you have a choice of the 5 or 6 with four buses per hour (Mon-Fri). All three routes operate 7 days a week”.

“I am disappointed to say that the 747 which ran from Stonehaven to Aberdeen Airport via Kingswells Park & Ride is to be withdrawn after only a year of operation. As well as the airport connection, this service offered an easy connection to Stonehaven (and Montrose at certain times of day)”.

All three services will continue to use the Queens Road route followed by the current X17 service.

Only minor timetabling changes are proposed for the 218 but it’s still worth checking out if you use that service”

Stagecoach is claiming a 13 minute reduction in journey times from Kingswells Park & Ride to Aberdeen Bus Station. The proposed timetables can be found here.

PLEASE SEE SEPARATE ARTICLE ON CHANGES TO THE 14 ROUTE WHICH IS FUNDED BY ABERDEEN CITY COUNCIL AND OPERATED BY STAGECOACH

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Stronsay Drive

Start Date and Time : 17 February 2020 06:00 
End Date and Time : 30 March 2020 06:00

Location : Stronsay Drive

Description : The effect of the order is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Stronsay Drive, Aberdeen, between its junction with Stronsay Crescent and the access to numbers 110-120 Stronsay Drive, from 06:00 on 17 February 2020, until 06:00 on 15 March 2020, and on Gairsay Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with Stronsay Drive and a point 40m in a westerly direction from 06:00 on 17 February 2020, until 06:00 on 30 March 2020.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretches of road. Access to properties will be maintained.

An alternative route is available via Stronsay Place, Summerhill Terrace, Summerhill Road and Lang Stracht.

The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones, and illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The Stronsay Drive section is expected to be completed within three weeks if no difficulties are encountered.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during sewer installation works for Aberdeen City Council. 

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Summerhill Crescent

Start Date and Time : 06 January 2020 07:00 
End Date and Time : 31 January 2020 17:00

Location : Summerhill Crescent

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:00 to 17:30 on 6th January to 31st January 2020, is to impose a temporary prohibition of waiting from no.36 to no.50 both sides on Summerhill Crescent and from the entrance of Holy Family RC School to no.36 on Summerhill Terrace.

The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The measure is necessary to protect public safety during footway works. 

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Summerhill Crescent

Start Date and Time : 06 January 2020 07:00 
End Date and Time : 24 January 2020 17:00

Location : Summerhill Crescent

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:00 to 17:30 on 6th January to 24th January 2020, is to impose a temporary prohibition of waiting from no.36 to no.50 both sides on Summerhill Crescent and from the entrance of Holy Family RC School to no.36 on Summerhill Terrace.

The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense. The measure is necessary to protect public safety during footway works. 

Possible Solution To Kingswells South Junction Delays & Safety Concerns

A long awaited solution to the Kingswells South junction of the AWPR may finally be coming forward. As residents are aware, the road layout, combined with lengthy traffic jams at peak times, has led to a number of accidents and countless near misses at this junction where the AWPR meets the A944.

Transport Scotland have now confirmed they have worked up a possible solution and put this to Aberdeen City Council for consideration. They have given no details of their proposed solution other than to say that the proposed measures would help alleviate peak hour queuing on the AWPR from the diverging slip road.

Lib Dem Infrastructure Spokesman and local councillor Steve Delaney said, “It became obvious shortly after the AWPR opened that the Kingswells South junction was not operating safely. At peak hours the queueing is excessive and there’s been countless near misses and a number of accidents”.

“As a local councillor I have raised these concerns on numerous occasions dating back to March of this year. Initially I was told Transport Scotland would be reviewing the operation of the junction after 12 months of operation, which I found, quite frankly, to be a somewhat cavalier approach when people are risking their lives on a daily basis at this junction”.

“Later responses suggested they were actively monitoring the junction and had accepted an engineering solution would be required. Meanwhile as the first anniversary of the opening of this junction passes, we’re only now seeing Transport Scotland coming up with a possible solution”.

“Although I’m pleased to hear of a solution now being within reach, I fear we’re likely to be looking at some more months down the line before it is implemented. It’s an absolute disgrace that Transport Scotland has been aware of these safety concerns for at least nine months and are only now looking to progress a solution”.

“Meanwhile there’s been countless more near misses and several accidents, many of which could possibly have been avoided if these concerns had been acted upon much quicker. The sooner we see diggers on the ground delivering these improvements, the better”.

Work On Kingswells To Cults Road Delayed

Works on the C128c Kingswells to Cults road which were to close the road to through traffic for three months from 6th January 2020 have been postponed. This will in turn have a knock on effect on the enlargement of the Kingswells roundabout (north side) which is to commence shortly after completion of works to create a new C128C road layout (which also includes the enlargement of the Kingswells roundabout on the south side). The new start date for the C128C closure is estimated to be March 2020, but this is subject to confirmation.

Local councillor Steve Delaney said, “I can appreciate people’s frustration with this delayed start, after having perhaps put in place alternative plans to get to work from January to March and of course some people will just be wishing for an early start to get it over and done with sooner”.

“However, I warmly welcome the delay as it does mean the road will not now be closed during the worst of the wintry weather, which would have caused lengthy diversions and much longer journey times at the worst possible time of year when people just want to get home from work and get warmed up.

“The knock-on effect is that about half the works on the north side of the Kingswells roundabout will likely take place during the Summer holidays when the roads are much quieter”.

“Make no mistake, these roadworks are going to cause significant disruption at any time of year. I’m just pleased to hear that avoiding works during the winter resulting in some of the works falling during Easter and Summer breaks will help minimise the adverse impact on local residents”.

Further updates will be posted as and when available.

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Hogmanay

Start Date and Time : 30 December 2019 18:00
End Date and Time : 01 January 2020 06:00

Location : Hogmanay

Description : In connection with the Aberdeen City Council Hogmanay Fireworks event 2019.

The temporary traffic management arrangements are shown in the schedule below,and will apply at the times indicated therein. Road Closures From 10:00 on 31 December 2019 to 06:00 on 1 January 2020

• Rosemont Viaduct, between its junctions with Union Terrace and Blackfriars Street

• Schoolhill, (westbound) between its junctions with Blackfriars Street and Back Wynd

• Belmont Street, between its junctions with Little Belmont Street and Schoolhill.

• Back Wynd, between its junctions with Little Belmont Street and Schoolhill

• Upperkirkgate, between its junctions with Schoolhill and Flourmill Lane From 1300 on 31 December 2019 to 0600 on 1 January 2020

• Blackfriars Street, for its entire length

• St Andrews Street, between its junctions with Blackfriars Street and Charlotte Street

• Schoolhill (eastbound), between its junction with Blackfriars Street and Back Wynd. From 1800 on 31 December 2019 to 0600 on 1 January 2020

• Harriett Street, between its junctions with Schoolhill and Loch Street From 2100 on 31 December 2019 to 0600 on 1 January 2020

• Rosemount Viaduct, between its junction with Skene Street and Union Terrace

• Union Terrace (Whole Length)

• Diamond Place (Whole Length) From 2200 on 31 December 2019 to 0600 on 1 January 2020

• Windmill Brae, for its entire length

• Windmill Lane, for its entire length

• Bath Street, for its entire length

• Bridge Place for its entire length

• Belmont Street, between its junctions with Little Belmont Street and Union Street

• Little Belmont Street for its entire length

• Back Wynd, between its junctions with Little Belmont Street and Union Street

• Gaelic Lane for its entire length From 2330 on 31 December 2019 to 0045 on 1 January 2020

• Union Street, between its junctions with Crown Street and Market Street EXCEPT for buses travelling from Guild Street/ College Street via Bridge Street to Union Street – left turn only onto Union Street. Buses travelling in other direction to turn right onto Crown Street (see below for revocation)

• Bridge Street from its junction with Wapping Street to Union Street EXCEPT for buses travelling from Guild Street/ College Street via Bridge Street to Union Street – left turn only onto Union Street.

• Diamond Street, between its junctions with Diamond Lane and Union Street From 2350 on 31 December 2019 to 0030 on 1 January 2020

• Denburn Road (both directions, whole length). This will be facilitated with a mobile road closure by ACC Road Services Temporary One-Way system, From 10:00 until 22:00 on 31 December 2019 Little Belmont Street, Aberdeen, travelling eastbound, for taxi’s only. Temporary suspension of One-Way system, From 13:00 until 22:00 on 31 December 2019 St Catherine’s Wynd, Aberdeen, Temporary suspensions of turning bans From 10:00 on 31 December 2019 to 06:00 on 1 January 2020 Skene Street, Aberdeen, into Rosemount Viaduct (right turn), for buses only From 23:30 on 31 December 2019 to 00:45 on 1 January 2020 Union Street, Aberdeen, into Crown Street (right turn) Holburn Street, Aberdeen, into Willowbank Road (right turn), for buses only Temporary suspensions of no entry From 13:00 until 22:00 on 31 December 2019 Union Street, Aberdeen, into Belmont Street for taxi’s and delivery vehicles only. Parking Restrictions From 18:00 on 30 December 2019 to 06:00 on 1 January 2020

• Diamond Street, Aberdeen, on either side, between Union Street and Ruby Lane.

• Bridge Street, Aberdeen, on either side, between its junctions with Union Street and Wapping Street.

• Union Terrace, Aberdeen, on either side, between its junctions with Union Street and Rosemount Viaduct.

• Schoolhill, Aberdeen, on either side, between its junctions with Back Wynd and Rosemount Viaduct including (Pocket Park)

• Little Belmont Street, Aberdeen, on either side, between its junctions with Belmont Street and Back Wynd


Alternate Route : Alternative routes shall be available during the closures.

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Stronsay Drive and Gairsay Road

Start Date and Time : 15 July 2019 08:00
End Date and Time : 20 December 2019 22:00

Location : Stronsay Drive and Gairsay Road

Description : Stronsay Drive, Aberdeen, will remain closed between its junction with Stronsay Crescent and the access to numbers 110-120 Stronsay Drive Road, until 22:00 on 17 December, 2019, and Gairsay Road, Aberdeen, will remain closed between its junction with Stronsay Drive and a point 30m in a westerly direction, until 22:00 on 20 December, 2019.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretches of road.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained when possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during sewer installation works for Aberdeen City Council.

Any queries regarding the restrictions can be directed to Hatton Traffic Management on 01224 795399, or info@hattontraffic.co.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Lang Stracht, Summerhill Road, Summerhill Terrace, and Stronsay Crescent, and via Eday Road and Eday Drive.

Latest Update On LED Street Lighting

Local councillor Steve Delaney continues to receive complaints about the new LED lighting, mostly from Kingswells but also from other parts of our area. People have been expressing concerns about safety as a result of the lower levels of illumination.

He has posed a number of additional queries to the council in the hope of finding a way to improve lighting levels which did not run contrary to the council’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions or indeed their requirement to make cost savings to balance the books.

Steve said, “I have asked about lighting levels compared to other areas of Aberdeen where LED bulbs have been installed and I have received assurances that lighting levels there are equivalent to those in Kingswells”. 

“I have raised concerns about security on the basis that well lit areas deter criminal activity. I have raised concerns about possible trip hazards if people (especially those who are frail or have poor eyesight) have to walk along poorly lit roads”.

“I have also asked about the specification of these bulbs and looked at the possibility of making changes to somehow improve the lighting levels emitted from them. To date a way forward has yet to be identified”.

“These lights meet or exceed the legal minimum levels  for street lighting and there is no obligation on the council to offer a level of illumination above what is currently being installed. Personally, I remain unconvinced these legal minimum lighting levels are insufficient for public safety but they are, as I have said, all that the council is obligated to comply with”.

“My view is that nobody within Aberdeen City Council (officers or councillors) would support a return to the old style light bulbs by way of cost, reliability and environmental factors. Instead, my own focus has been on getting improved lighting levels out of the new LED bulbs and my recommendation is that this is the approach most likely to succeed if indeed it proves possible to find a solution”. 

“A constituent recently asked for details of who to complain to and enquired about the possibility and effectiveness of starting a petition. In this respect there are two different routes a member of the public could take. I have since been asked to make this information publicly available and have provided an overview below”.

Petitions

There used to be a petitions committee but now any valid petition goes directly to the committee whose remit it falls under. Petitions can be online, paper based or a combination of both. Full guidance can be found here.

Any petition which is valid (the relevant criteria is set out in the guidance) and attracts at least 100 valid signatures by its closing date will be placed on the agenda for the next available meeting of the relevant committee.

The person or persons submitting a petition will be invited to attend the committee to present their case to councillors and answer any questions relating to the petition which councillors may wish to ask. It is then for the committee to make a decision on your petition’s proposed outcome but there is no right of appeal on their decision. 

Formal Complaint

Any citizen has the right to make a formal complaint in respect of any service provided to them by the council with which they are dissatisfied. This something individuals would need to do themselves as it is not something which can be taken forward by a councillor.

A letter or email detailing the nature of your complaint should be sent to the Chief Executive, Aberdeen City Council, Marischal College. The Chief Executive will then re-direct the correspondence to the most appropriate person for a response.

Any such letter needs to say that you wish it to be dealt with under the council’s complaints procedure, otherwise it will merely be treated as a service query.

A copy of the council’s complaints procedure should be requested as that will outline the process which must be followed by you, should you remain dissatisfied with the council’s initial response to your complaint.

Ultimately you may refer the matter to the Public Services Ombudsman, should you remain dissatisfied after following the complaints process to its conclusion, should you feel this to be necessary.

There is no cost attached to this course of action but the Ombudsman will immediately reject your complaint if you have not followed and fully exhausted the council’s own complaints procedure first.

School Bus Access During C89C closure

A recently published Road Traffic Order has caused significant concern across Kingswells. The proposed closure was of the C89C “Kingswells bypasss” from its junction with Kingswells Crescent at Derbeth to the Kingswells North junction of the AWPR from 2nd to 13th December.

Local councillor Steve Delaney said, “This has very understandably caused concerns for parents as to how their children will get to and from school as this route is used by the school bus to Bucksburn Academy”.

“I contacted the council last Friday and have discussed matters at length with various people in the hope of finding a solution in respect the school buses. A meeting between relevant council officers took place earlier today and I now have more details of what’s proposed and the access arrangements which have been put in place for the school buses”.

The road closure is necessary in order for works to be undertaken to install street lighting on the section of road from the junction with Kingswells Crescent and the Kingswells North junction of the AWPR. This will involve the laying of underground cabling, so the closure is unavoidable as the road will effectively be operating as a construction site during this time.

The traffic order is for 12 days but it is expected the works will be completed sooner than this and the aim is for the road to be re-opened as quickly as possible.

Steve continued, “I am pleased to confirm agreement has been reached for the school buses to be given access to the closed section of road for both the morning and afternoon journeys but no other vehicles will be allowed through. The buses will have to proceed at a much slower pace so journeys will take a little longer”.

“I appreciate the road closure will cause significant disruption in respect of children attending after school activities and indeed for everyone who regularly travels between Kingswells and Bucksburn. Unfortunately this is unavoidable so the best we can hope for is an early completion of these works which, I’m assured, is everyone’s aim”.

“I have contacted Bucksburn Academy to make them aware of the revised arrangements and would ask that everyone reading this posting pass on the details to others who may not be fully aware of the situation”.

That meeting took place earlier today. The outcome was that …..

REGISTERING YOUR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES MIGHT JUST SAVE YOUR LIFE

Did you know that around three quarters of fires in Scottish homes are caused by electricity – with most linked to electrical appliances?

Electrical Safety First has launched “Do it Now” – a campaign to get people to register their electrical appliances. If your electrical items are registered, it means you can be contacted much more easily if an electrical appliance you have bought has been recalled by its manufacturer for safety reasons. 

Registering your appliances will only take a few minutes but it really could save your life and others’ lives. You can register your appliances here.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – C89c Chapel of Stoneywood to Fairley Road

Start Date and Time : 02 December 2019 08:00
End Date and Time : 13 December 2019 17:00

Location : C89c Chapel of Stoneywood to Fairley Road

Description : C89c Chapel of Stoneywood to Fairley Road will be closed between Kingswells Crescent to AWPR access roundabout at North Kingswells.

This will be done for public safety during ACC Lighting works.

Alternate Route : C89c Chapel of Stoneywood, Hope Farm Road, A96, AWPR, A944 Roundabout, C89c Chapel of Stoneywood

C128C Closure & Kingswells Roundabout Enlargement

Following on from concerns raised at Kingswells Community Council and those raised separately by a number of local residents, Councillor Steve Delaney met this afternoon with representatives of Countesswells Development Ltd.

Steve said, “I was pleased to have had the opportunity to meet with the developers to discuss residents’ concerns about the closure of the Kingswells to Cults road and the disruption this will cause. It was a friendly but frank exchange of views and I’m pleased to now be in possession of much fuller information to share with residents”.

“We discussed timeframes for various stages of the works and I made it known that Kingswells residents were unhappy they had not been offered any information, given that the works are likely to impact more significantly on Kingswells than the small number of people living in the new Countesswells development”.

The Kingswells to Cults road will close for three months from 6 January 2020. This timeframe was confirmed as being inclusive of all works on the C128C as well as the enlargement works to the south side of the Kingswells roundabout. There will be no through access to the C128C from the roundabout during this time on safety grounds.

The second phase of the works, which will see the enlargement of the Kingswells roundabout on the north side, is to commence shortly after conclusion of phase one. These works are timetabled to take a further three months. During this time the A944 will remain open but there’s almost certainly going to be significant disruption on the section heading from Westhill towards Kingswells (north carriageway only).

Steve said, “I wa assured that works will go on for no longer than is absolutely necessary and the time of year, being winter, has already been factored into the timetable. Both the developer and the council have confirmed the works to the C128C cannot be carried out safely without closing the road”.

“Having now seen the plans, the significant works to the Kingswells to Cults road will be particularly welcomed by everyone who uses that route. I just struggle to understand why it needs to take three months to complete, given that there will be no traffic on the road during construction works”.

“The enlargement of the Kingswells roundabout will help increase capacity but my view is that may still struggle to handle traffic volumes at peak times even after the enlargement due to the fact there’s no plans to widen the lanes within the roundabout and these narrow lanes have been a cause for concern from the outset with HGVs having to straddle lanes due to their size”.

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Summerhill Road, Campsie Place

Start Date and Time : 09 December 2019 08:00 
End Date and Time : 20 December 2019 17:00

Location : Summerhill Road, Campsie Place

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 08.00 on 9 December, 2019, until 17:00 on 20 December, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of waiting on either side of Summerhill Road, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Dumgoyne Place and Balfron Place, and also on either side of Campsie Place, Aberdeen, from its junction with Summerhill Road to the boundary between numbers 5 and 7 Campsie Place.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during works being carried out by BT Openreach.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Wright Traffic Management on 01466 751316, or info@wtm.scot

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Gairsay Road and Stronsay Drive

Start Date and Time : 15 July 2019 08:00 
End Date and Time : 06 December 2019 22:00

Location : Gairsay Road and Stronsay Drive

Description : There is a prohibition of driving on Gairsay Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with Stronsay Drive and the access road to the play area at the side of 13 Gairsay Road, until 06:30 on 25 November 2019.

There is also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretch of road. From 06:30 on 25 November, 2019, until 22:00 on 6 December, 2019, there will be a prohibition of driving on Gairsay Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with Stronsay Drive and a point 30m in a westerly direction, and also on Stronsay Drive, Aberdeen, between its junction with Stronsay Crescent and the access to numbers 110-120 Stronsay Drive.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretches of road. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained when possible. The measures are necessary to protect public safety during sewer installation works for Aberdeen City Council.

Any queries regarding the restrictions can be directed to Hatton Traffic Management on 01224 795399, or info@hattontraffic.co.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Stronsay Drive, Eday Road, and Eday Drive, and via Stronsay Place, Summerhill Terrace, Summerhill Road and Lang Stracht. 

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Summerhill Road, Campsie Place

Start Date and Time : 02 December 2019 08:00 
End Date and Time : 13 December 2019 17:00 

Location : Summerhill Road, Campsie Place

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 08.00 on 2 December, 2019, until 17:00 on 13 December, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of waiting on either side of Summerhill Road, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Dumgoyne Place and Balfron Place, and also on either side of Campsie Place, Aberdeen, from its junction with Summerhill Road to the boundary between numbers 5 and 7 Campsie Place.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during works being carried out by BT Openreach.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Wright Traffic Management on 01466 751316, or info@wtm.scot

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Gairsay Road

Start Date and Time : 15 July 2019 08:00 
End Date and Time : 01 November 2019 22:00

Location : Gairsay Road 

Description : There will be a prohibition of driving on Gairsay Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with Stronsay Drive and the access road to the play area at the side of 13 Gairsay Road, until 22:00 on 1 November 2019.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretch of road. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained when possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during sewer installation works for Aberdeen City Council.

Any queries regarding the restrictions can be directed to Hatton Traffic Management on 01224 795399, or info@hattontraffic.co.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Stronsay Drive, Eday Road, and Eday Drive. 

It’s Not Too Early To Get Ready for Winter

With winter approaching, it is worth taking a few minutes to make sure you, your home and your car are ready for winter.

There is lots of information available online to help you get ready for winter.

Age UK publish a guide to keeping warm and well during winter and you can download that here.

You can find out more about dealing with cold weather on the Met Office’s advice webpages.

You can also find advice on how to deal with frozen pipes on Scottish Water’s website, the AA’s guide for winter motoring here and advice from Cycling UK and the AA about cycling in the winter here.

You can find out about the council’s one-tonne community salt bag scheme here. If you or an organisation you know would like to apply for a one-tonne salt bag the deadline for doing so is 1st November.

Information about the council’s road and pavement gritting service is available here.

Remember, the grit bins around our area are there for residents to use. If you know of one in our area that needs refilling then please do let me have the details.

Lengthy Closure Of C128C Kingswells to Cults Closes Planned For Early 2020

A number of Kingswells residents have contacted local councillor Steve Delaney raising their concerns about the proposed closure of this road. This comes only a couple of years after prolonged closure of the road to get utility services across to the new Countesswells development.

Matters came to a head a couple of weeks ago when it emerged that the developer had set up a meeting but had not publicised this beyond the residents of the new development. Kingswells residents were given no advance warning of this, nor were councillors. Steve has since been in touch with several council officers and representatives of the developer, Countesswells Development Ltd to try to get some answers.

The works overall are expected to take about a year, though it’s not expected the road will be closed for the duration of the works. An initial road closure application has now been received by the council. The closure is proposed from 6 January 2020 for three months.

The works involve widening the C128C where it joins the roundabout and stopping up the current road southwards and replacing it with a new road to line up with Countesswells Road. Longer term this is going to be very welcome but in the interim there’s going to be significant diversions for anyone trying to get from Kingswells to Cults.

Steve said, “Council officers do not believe a 12 month closure  to be either required or indeed acceptable”. Just yesterday I received a response from Countesswells Development Ltd in which they said, “there will not, and never has been, the intention to close that road for a 12 month period”. They went on to say that they would be, “building the road up to the roundabout and then introducing a closure for as minimum a period as we possible can”.

At this point in time it remains unclear as to whether further works are envisaged beyond the initial 3 month period, whether or not the enlargement of the Kingswells roundabout is included in these works and a number of other questions also remain outstanding. 

Steve concluded, “Although the closure cannot be avoided for safety reasons I have sought assurances from both the council and the developer that these need to be kept to the absolute minimum in order to minimise disruption to local people”.

“Please rest assured I will remain in touch with both the council and Countesswells Development Ltd until matters become much clearer. Further updates will be posted if and when available”.

Latest Update On AWPR Junction On A944

A number of concerns were raised earlier this year in respect of getting on and off the AWPR/A944 at the Kingswells South junction safely at peak times and also of lengthy queues.

Liberal Democrat Infrastructure Spokesman and local councillor Steve Delaney raised these concerns inito be told initially that a full evaluation would be undertaken after 12 months looking at various factors including accident statistics.

Steve said, “This really concerned me as it seemed like Transport Scotland were going to sitting back for 12 months waiting for accidents to happen. Even then, an assessment of the statistics and any recommendations arising from these would likely have taken a few months more. to agree, never mind to implement

After pursuing matters further Steve was given assurances that the situation as reported was “most certainly understood”, being “closely monitored” by their technical advisers and “should the monitoring indicate that enhancements to the junction are required, then these will be considered accordingly”. 

He has been in regular contact with council officers and Aberdeen Roads Ltd since then and can confirm there is now a recognition by Transport Scotland that an engineering solution is required in order to reduce queueing at peak times.

Steve said, “There is hardly a week that goes by without a constituent contacting me about either an accident or a near miss. Despite this, Transport Scotland appear to be in no hurry to address the issue.

“My understanding is that a report is to come to committee early next year outlining firm proposals on how to improve safety at the junction. I just hope it’s not too little, too late by then.

“Please rest assured I will continue to press for a solution to be taken forward an, more importantly, implemented as soon as possible”.

Concerns About LED Street Lighting

A significant number of residents have contacted local councillor Steve Delaney to raise concerns about lighting levels since the council upgraded the street lighting to LED bulbs.

These bulbs are much cheaper to run, they last much longer, they are less likely to fail, they significantly reduce our carbon footprint and the lighting in their immediate vicinity is much improved.

However, the radius of the area illuminated around each column is significantly reduced, resulting in dark spots between the columns, unlit driveways and the entrances to people’s homes no longer being illuminated. This in turn has led to safety concerns with regard to fear of crime and possible trip hazards for people who are perhaps unsteady on their feet or have poor eyesight.

Steve said, “I have raised these concerns and more with the council and I have also tried to explore possible solutions with them”.

“The council has responded by saying that the aim was get the electricity costs and carbon footprint as low as possible while still achieving the required lighting levels that the public were used to and also that of the British Standards which set the minimum levels for lighting”.

“I’m informed that by using white light, facial recognition is better than that of orange light sources and the new LED lanterns are much more focussed in where they direct their light with a dramatic reduction in ‘spill light’ which may have led to the perception that the area is less lit due to the fact that house gardens and paths are no longer illuminated”.

It appears that the council has an obligation to light adopted roads and footpaths. Unfortunately they are not under any obligation to illuminate driveways or private footpaths leading to residents’ doors. In that respect the wider angled beam of the older style lighting was subject to a fair amount of light spillage and therefore better at giving a uniform lighting level in all areas.

Steve asked for tests to be carried out in a few streets to ensure they did indeed meet the minimum British Standard with respect to lighting levels. In every case they actually exceeded that minimum standard. The issue seems to be that the lit areas are fine, it’s the unlit areas that are causing understandable concern.

Steve said, “I have asked about any possible ways the dark spots could perhaps be eliminated. One suggestion was that perhaps the height of the columns could be shortened. However,  it appears they had in fact been heightened to improve the uniformity of lighting across the length of the street and to reduce the number of light and dark areas in the street”.

“Another idea was to fit reflectors around the bulbs to increase lighting levels. I was informed that every lantern has specially designed optics around each LED to make sure that the lantern puts the light exactly where it is required and that it is not possible to fit reflectors around the bulb as could be done with the old style lanterns”.

Steve concluded, “As long as the council is meeting the legal minimum standards, which they appear to be, then nothing is going to change.”

“The only solution I can see is for householders to install additional lighting, possibly motion activated, in order to illuminate any dark spots on their own property.  It’s something myself and my neighbours had to do some years ago as our street has always been particularly badly lit”.

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Stronsay Drive, Gairsay Road

Start Date and Time : 15 July 2019 08:00 
End Date and Time : 01 November 2019 22:00 
Location : Stronsay Drive, Gairsay Road 

Description : The effect of the order is to impose temporary prohibition of driving on Stronsay Drive, Aberdeen, between its junction with Stronsay Crescent and its northern junction with the loop road at numbers 27-65 Stronsay Drive until 22:00 on 23 October, 2019 .

There will be a prohibition of driving on Gairsay Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with Stronsay Drive and the access road to the play area at the side of 13 Gairsay Road, until 22:00 on 1 November 2019.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretch of road. Also, there will be a prohibition of driving on Stronsay Drive, Aberdeen, between its junction with Lang Stracht and Stronsay Crescent until 22:00 on 18 October 2019.

The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones, and illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained when possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during sewer installation works for Aberdeen City Council and duct laying works for City Fibre.

Any queries regarding the restrictions can be directed to Hatton Traffic Management on 01224 795399, or info@hattontraffic.co.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route for the Stronsay Drive closure is available via King’s Gate, Summerhill Road and Lang Stracht, and for the Gairsay Road closure via Stronsay Drive, Eday Road, and Eday Drive. 

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Arnage Place – Mastrick Road to Arnage Drive

Start Date and Time : 09 September 2019 07:00 
End Date and Time : 04 October 2019 17:00 

Location : Arnage Place – Mastrick Road to Arnage Drive

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:00 on 9 September 2019, until 17:00 on 04 October 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Arnage Place between Mastrick Road and Arnage Drive.

There will also be a temporary prohibition of waiting either side of Arnage Place, Aberdeen, between Mastrick Road and Arnage Drive.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones.

The measure is necessary to protect public safety during footway resurfacing works.

Alternate Route : Ross Crescent, Arnage Drive and vice versa. 

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Whitemyres Avenue

Start Date and Time : 02 September 2019 06:00 
End Date and Time : 13 October 2019 22:00 

Location : Whitemyres Avenue 

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 06:00 on 2 September, 2019, until 22:00 on 13 October, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Whitemyres Avenue, Aberdeen, between its junction with Mastrick Drive and Whitemyres Place, other than in a westerly direction.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on either side of the same stretch of road. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during gas main replacement works by SGN.

Temporary traffic signals will be in use from 25 September to 13 October, 24 hours/day.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Scotland Gas Networks on 0800 912 1700, or roadworkscoordination@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Whitemyres Avenue, Lang Stracht and Mastrick Drive. 

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Arnage Place – Mastrick Road to Arnage Drive

Start Date and Time : 09 September 2019 07:00
End Date and Time : 20 September 2019 17:00

Location : Arnage Place – Mastrick Road to Arnage Drive

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:00 on 9 September 2019, until 17:00 on 20 September 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Arnage Place between Mastrick Road and Arnage Drive.

There will also be a temporary prohibition of waiting either side of Arnage Place, Aberdeen, between Mastrick Road and Arnage Drive.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense. The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones.

The measure is necessary to protect public safety during footway resurfacing works.

Alternate Route : Ross Crescent, Arnage Drive and vice versa.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Whitemyres Avenue

Start Date and Time : 02 September 2019 06:00 
End Date and Time : 13 October 2019 22:00 

Location : Whitemyres Avenue 

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 06:00 on 2 September, 2019, until 22:00 on 13 October, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Whitemyres Avenue, Aberdeen, between its junction with Mastrick Drive and Whitemyres Place, other than in a westerly direction.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on either side of the same stretch of road. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during gas main replacement works by SGN.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Scotland Gas Networks on 0800 912 1700, or roadworkscoordination@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Whitemyres Avenue, Lang Stracht and Mastrick Drive. 

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Surface Dressing Brodiach Road

Start Date and Time : 15 July 2019 07:00
End Date and Time : 26 July 2019 22:00

Location : Surface Dressing Brodiach Road

Description : The effect of the order is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving and a 20mph speed restriction on the following roads; Brodiach Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with the A944 Skene Road and the city boundary at Brodiach Burn.

Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible.

Each road will be closed for a maximum of two days between 07:00 on 15 July, 2019, and 22:00 on 26 July, 2019.

The 20mph speed restriction will be enforced on each road for a period of one week following surface dressing.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during and following carriageway surfacing dressing works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via the A944 Skene Road, Westhill Drive, and Westhill Road;

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Broadiach Road

Start Date and Time : 22 June 2019 07:30 
End Date and Time : 06 July 2019 22:00

Location : Broadiach Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30 on 22 June, 2019, until 22:00 on 6 July, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Brodiach Road, Aberdeen, between Cairdhillock Farmhouse and The Bungalow.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during water connection works for a new development. Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to WM Donald on 01569 730590, or info@wmdonald.co.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Westhill Road, Westhill Drive, and the A944 Skene Road. 

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – City Fibre 14 Kingsford Road

Start Date and Time : 15 June 2019 08:00 
End Date and Time : 15 June 2019 17:00 

Location : City Fibre 14 Kingsford Road 

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 08:00 until 17:00 on 15th June, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Kingsford Road, Aberdeen, from the gable end of number 20 Kingsford Road to the gable end of number 26 Kingsford Road.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretch of road.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible.

The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during duct laying works being carried out by City Fibre.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Hatton Traffic Management on 07940598693, or roadworkscoordination@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Sheddocksley Road, Brodinch Road and Springhill Road. 

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Shapinsay Road

Start Date and Time : 10 May 2019 07:30
End Date and Time : 17 May 2019 17:00

Location : Shapinsay Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30 until 17:00 on 10 May, 2019, and from 07:30-17:00 daily from 13 May, 2019, until 17 May, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Shapinsay Road, Aberdeen, for its entire length.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the area shaded red below. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained when possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during carriageway surfacing works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Axe The Garden Tax

On 5th March Conservative, Labour and SNP councillors in Aberdeen all voted to impose a Garden Tax, an annual charge for collecting garden and other “green waste” from people’s brown bins.

This new Garden Tax will be on top of your increased council tax bill.

Aberdeen’s Liberal Democrat councillors opposed this Garden Tax. The Liberal Democrats believe it is wrong to introduce this Garden Tax. Garden waste collection is an important council service and should be paid for from council tax. Composting green and garden waste is also important for our environment.

Conservative and Labour councillors, together with their Independent allies, voted for a £30 Garden Tax.

The SNP councillors wanted to have a Garden Tax of £35.

The Liberal Democrats will continue to oppose this unfair tax on people with gardens.

If you back the campaign to axe the Garden Tax please sign up here.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Shapinsay Road

Start Date and Time : 14 May 2019 07:30 
End Date and Time : 20 May 2019 17:00

Location : Shapinsay Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30-17:00 daily from 14 May, 2019, to 20 May, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Shapinsay Road, Aberdeen, for its entire length.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretch of road. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained when possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during carriageway surfacing works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Aberdonians to get £345 less per head from the Scottish Government than the average council area

From 1st April, Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils will be the second and third worst funded local authority areas in Scotland, according to the latest figures produced by the Scottish Parliament’s information centre. 

Per head of population, Aberdeen City Council will receive £345 and Aberdeenshire Council £199 less than the average Scottish local authority next year. Only Edinburgh will receive less from the Scottish Government.

Commenting on the figures, North East Liberal Democrat MSP Mike Rumbles said: “These figures are disgraceful. The Scottish Government is using the North East as a cash cow and that means less money for our schools, roads and local lifeline services.

“It’s no wonder people feel let-down by this SNP Government. Instead of supporting and investing in the North East, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are two of the worst funded local authorities areas in Scotland.

“Our public and healthcare services have been at the back of the queue for funding for over a decade and there is no recognition of the unique challenges faced by people living in our area. If we ever want to get a fair deal from the Scottish Government, we need a complete rethink about how our local services are funded.”

Aberdeen City Councillor Ian Yuill added: “Year-after-year the SNP government in Edinburgh has badly short-changed people in Aberdeen. This means cuts to vital services which hits some of the most vulnerable in our city.”

Figures below are provided by the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) on 20th March 2019

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Croft Road

Start Date and Time : 27 March 2019 07:30 
End Date and Time : 28 March 2019 17:00

Location : Croft Road

Description : In the interests of public safety during works being carried out by Aberdeen City Council

The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30 on 27 March, 2019, until 17:00 on 28 March, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Croft Road, Aberdeen, from the boundary between numbers 1 and 3 Croft Road to its junction with Croft Place, and also on Croft Terrace, Aberdeen, from the boundary between numbers 29 and 31 Croft Terrace to its junction with Croft Road.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretches of road, and also on Croft Place, Aberdeen, from its junction with Croft Terrace to a point 10 metres in a northerly direction from 07:30 to 17:00 daily.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The existing one-way system on Croft Place, Aberdeen, will be suspended to maintain egress from properties.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk 

The Council regrets any inconvenience that may be caused by this temporary measure. 

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Mastrick Drive, Arnage Drive, Fernhill Drive, and Hillylands Road 

Kingswells Fibre Nears Completion

The roll out of high speed fibre connections began in Kingswells 5 years ago. Despite getting off to a promising start, various obstacles were encountered and, at times, it was less than certain that we would see full coverage of the village.

Local councillor Steve Delaney has been working with Aberdeen City Council, Digital Scotland, BT and Openreach to ensure that the programme was fully delivered.

Steve said, “I’m pleased to announce that Derbeth Grange is now 100% completed. To my knowledge there are only a handful of addresses in Wellside Place and Derbeth Park which are not yet capable of being connected to fibre.

“I fully understand the frustration of these families who are still experiencing prehistoric connection speeds but we are getting there. The final challenges appear to be down to obscure technical issues which have yet to be resolved as all other homes in these streets are already connected.

“Please rest assured I will remain in regular touch with Openreach and will post further updates as final completion nears”.

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Brodiach Road

Start Date and Time : 08 April 2019 07:00
End Date and Time : 22 April 2019 18:00

Location : Brodiach Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:00 on 8 April, 2019, until 18:00 on 22 April, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Brodiach Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with the A944 Skene Road and the city boundary at Brodiach Burn.

Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during carriageway surfacing works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via the A944 Skene Road, Westhill Drive, and Westhill Road.

Anne Frank awards 2019

What are the Anne Frank Awards?

Anne Frank is representative of millions who suffered the horrific, depraved consequences of prejudice and genocide during the Nazi era. The GREC Anne Frank Awards invites all schools and youth groups throughout Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray to take part in activities to promote equality, Children’s Rights and positive relations between all people.

Examples of activities:

  • Celebration of appropriate events and anniversaries
  • Artwork, Poems, Drama, Movies, Comic Strips, Songs, Short Films or Project/topic work
  • PowerPoint presentations

TheUNSustainable Development Goalsmay also provide inspiration for activities.

Why take part?

Taking part is a great way to demonstrate your school or group’s commitment to equality and human rights, which in turn will cover various experiences and outcomes of the curriculum and may feed into other initiatives like Rights Respecting Schools. All those taking part will:

  • Be invited to the Awards Ceremony in June 2019 (attendance is not a requirement)
  • Be invited to present their work in front of their peers
  • Receive certificates, both for named individuals and school, class or other groups
  • Receive a framed photograph with pupils and the Anne Frank statue.  

“The event was very good and provided a fantastic experience for our pupils as they presented to an audience. The event was valued by our school as it allowed our wider achievement groups to get their messages across on the importance of fairness, equality and tolerance. It encouraged pupil voice and let pupils know their rights are respected and their opinions valued.”

Tom Whyte, Faculty Head, Harlaw Academy

How to take part:

To take part,simply fill in the short form (which can be downloaded from www.grec.co.uk/anne-frankor by using the contact details below) and attach evidence of the work that has been undertaken.  

Closing Date for entries:   Friday 17thMay 2019

Awards Ceremony: Friday 21stJune 2019

For more information and examples of previous entires visit www.grec.co.uk/anne-frankor contact Dave at dblack@grec.co.uk

New Temporary Traffic Order- Brodiach Road

Start Date and Time : 08 April 2019 07:00 
End Date and Time : 18 April 2019 22:00 

Location : Brodiach Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:00 on 8 April, 2019, until 22:00 on 18 April, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Brodiach Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with the A944 Skene Road and the city boundary at Brodiach Burn.

Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during carriageway surfacing works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via the A944 Skene Road, Westhill Drive, and Westhill Road. 

Help Fuel The Renewal

Local councillor Steve Delaney said, “Sheddocksley Baptist Church offers activities for all ages within our community with their toddler groups, youth cafe, community nurses, senior citizens’ lunches and much more, including the Fine Peace Cafe, which runs 3 days a week

“If you use their facilities and are able to either make a small donation or undertake a fundraising event to help them enhance their offering to our community, I’m sure they will appreciate your support”.

 

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Windford Road

Start Date and Time : 04 February 2019 07:30
End Date and Time : 08 March 2019 17:30

Location : Windford Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30 on 4 February, 2019, until 17:30 on 8 March, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Windford Road, Aberdeen, between its junctions Sheddocksley Road and Sheddocksley Drive.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretch of road from 07:30-17:30 Mon-Fri. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense. Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during footway surfacing works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Sheddocksley Drive and Sheddocksley Road.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Stronsay Drive, Stronsay Place

Start Date and Time : 26 February 2019 09:30
End Date and Time : 26 February 2019 15:30
Location : Stronsay Drive, Stronsay Place

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 09:30 until 15:30 on 26 February, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Stronsay Drive, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Lang Stracht and Sanday Road, and on Stronsay Place, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Stronsay Drive and Summerhill Drive.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on Stronsay Drive, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Lang Stracht and Fernilea Crescent, and on Stronsay Place, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Stronsay Drive and Summerhill Drive.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense. Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible.

An alternative route is available via Lang Stracht, Summerhill Road and King’s Gate.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during sewer investigation works. Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Structures team on 03000 200292, or roadworkscoordination@aberdeencity.gov.uk

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Croft Road

Start Date and Time : 11 March 2019 07:30
End Date and Time : 15 March 2019 17:00

Location : Croft Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30 on 11 March, 2019, until 17:00 on 15 March, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Croft Road, Aberdeen, from the boundary between numbers 1 and 3 Croft Road to its junction with Croft Place, and on Croft Terrace, Aberdeen, from the boundary between numbers 29 and 31 Croft Terrace to its junction with Croft Road.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretches of road between 07:30 and 17:00 daily, and also on Croft Place, Aberdeen, from its junction with Croft Terrace to a point 10 metres in a northerly direction. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible. The existing one-way system on Croft Place, Aberdeen, will be suspended to maintain egress from properties.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during carriageway surfacing works. Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Mastrick Drive, Arnage Drive, Fernhill Drive, and Hillylands Road.

Council Considers Stair Lifts For Sheltered Housing

Aberdeen City Council has agreed to seriously consider installing stair lifts in all sheltered housing blocks with upper floors.

This initiative has come about as a result of a notice of motion by Lib Dem councillor Steve Delaney, following concerns raised with him towards the end of last year.

Steve said, “I raised this matter as a result of an unfortunate set of circumstances whereby a resident came home from hospital only to find she could not access her flat on the upper floor because the lift had broken down the day before.

“Whilst I commend the actions of staff from both the Housing team and Bon Accord Care, for their support and prompt action, the matter was eventually resolved with assistance from the Fire Service, which was less than ideal.

“Other residents with limited mobility on the upper floor of the sheltered complex had to miss out on social events in the building as well as medical appointments until the lift was fixed, but this took no less than five days.

“This is not the first time lifts have been out of order in sheltered blocks, but when someone who was newly discharged from hospital could not access the comfort and privacy of their own home it became clear that action was needed.  It is vital that as a responsible, caring local authority we address this matter in respect of the safety, amenity and dignity of our sheltered housing residents”.

Committee agreed unanimously to instruct officers to bring back information on likely costings for this proposal to the budget meeting on 5 March 2019.

Steve said, “I’m grateful for the recognition all councillors gave to this issue. Also their willingness to move the proposal on to the next stage so it can be properly considered as part of next month’s budget proposals”.

Extended Opening Hours At Park & Ride Waiting Room

With effect from 11/2/19 the waiting room at Kingswells Park & Ride will be opened when the first No 747 service arrives and closed when the last bus departs, seven days a week, making it much more comfortable for passengers waiting for a bus, especially in cold or wet weather.

Local councillor Steve Delaney said, “I first raised this matter some years ago following budget cuts which had left the facility unmanned.

“Temporary solutions were put in place from time to time but some fell by the wayside and most arrangements only covered a few hours a day on weekdays.

“With the introduction of the No 14 service last year I once again approached the council’s Public Transport Unit on this matter and they agreed to try to identify a solution and keep it under review.

“Now that the 747 Airport Service is up and running, Stagecoach has agreed to have their drivers open and close the waiting room at the start and end of each day, seven days a week.

“This is going to make a huge difference to local residents and make it much more appealing to use the bus to get to and from work”.

This arrangement will continue for the foreseeable future unless otherwise advised by the operator.

Need Assistance On Public Transport?

Thistle Assistance Card logo

The Thistle Assistance Card is the size of a credit card and can fit into the wallet of anyone who might need extra help when travelling about on public transport. 

It is supported by all seven Regional Transport Partnerships in Scotland, Transport Scotland, many transport operators and disability groups including RNIB, SATA and Disability Equality Scotland.

The card, and its associated App, are supported by a wide variety of voluntary organisations across Scotland and by most bus, train, tram, ferry and airport operators. It is credit-card sized and comes with a supply of peel-off stickers, which advise the driver or conductor of your disability and the help you need in an easy-to-read format.

The App is downloadable for both Apple and Android enabled devices from Apple App Store and Play Store.

This card has a series of stickers to attach to the card and personalise the information so that it can be shown to the bus driver to make them aware. The stickers illustrate needs such as mobility hearing and sight challenges. There are then further stickers showing that the passenger may need more time to get to their seat or a reminder of when they get to their destination. There is also space on the back of the card for information such as phone number of the family or carer.

If you would like to find out more information about Thistle Assistance Card you can visit the SEStran website, e-mail thistlecard@sestran.gov.uk or call 0131 524 5153.

Wind Farm Cash Available Soon

Photo of Aberdeen Bay windfarmThe company which operates the Aberdeen Bay wind farm is to run a community benefit fund which is open to community groups across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Vattenfall have committed to annually investing £150,000 to a community benefit scheme for the 20 year lifetime of the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre in Aberdeen Bay.

Applications for the Unlock our Future Fund are now open and will run until 15 April 2019. Application forms are available from the fund’s webpage which will go live on that date. It is expected that funding awards will be made in early summer.

Any constituted organisation or community group in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is eligible to apply.

There are four key priorities of the scheme and each application must demonstrate how it will meet all four. Each application must:

  • Contribute to a climate smarter world with sustainability at its core
  • Invest in community facilities and/or activities that are fit for the future
  • Be innovative
  • Ensure a legacy and lasting impact which clearly brings benefit to the local community

An independent community champions panel will select the successful applications. Foundation Scotland will administer the fund.

Applying For School Places

The method of applying for school places in Aberdeen has changed – it now needs to be done online.

Applications can only be submitted by parents, guardians or, if they are over 16 years old, the young person themselves.

If you want your child to start school in August 2019 the application must be made by Friday 15th March.

You can find out more and apply online here.

Stagecoach Launches AWPR Services

Stagecoach have launched two new services which offer half hourly connections to Aberdeen Airport from Kingswells Park & Ride 7 days a week.

The 747 and 757 serve a number of locations on the AWPR including Montrose, Stonehaven, Kingswells Park & Ride and Ellon.

Service 747 offers a new link across Aberdeenshire and Angus. The new service will replace services 107 and current 747 and operates hourly throughout most of the day between Montrose and Ellon using the AWPR.

The service will operate from Montrose to Stonehaven before serving Kingswells Park & Ride and Aberdeen Airport. The service will then continue to Ellon and some journeys extend to Cruden Bay and Peterhead.

Service 757 provides a direct link to the airport from Portlethen and Newtonhill. The 757 service operates hourly throughout most of the day, 7 days a week, and will also stop at Kingswells Park & Ride.

Kingswells Park and Ride will benefit from both of the new bus services and, as a result, journeys from the popular Park & Ride site to the airport will be available by bus up to every 30 minutes, 7 days a week.

Both services will be operated by low-floor easy access buses fitted with the latest tracking technology as well as the ability to accept contactless payments.

A discounted ticket is currently available on the 747 and 757 to celebrate the start of the new services. Customers will be able to travel all day on either service for £6 when they buy their ticket on the Stagecoach mobile app.

This ticket is valid on the full route for services 747/757 from Peterhead to Montrose and offers customers over 60% saving.

For the shorter journeys such as Kingswells Park and Ride to Aberdeen Airport daily travel is available for £3.70.

Local councillor Steve Delaney, who attended the launch event earlier this week at Aberdeen Airport, said, “I must commend Stagecoach for this initiative which clearly demonstrates that the bus can offer a fast, reliable, cost effective alternative means of transport.

“The new route incorporates also stops at Bristows Heliport and Kirkhill Industial Estate at peak times, making it much easier for people to get to and from work quickly instead of having to make a lengthy and tortuous journey on two buses.

“It also opens up the opportunity for a day out in Stonehaven, Montrose, Ellon or Cruden Bay from Kingswells Park & Ride with buses leaving every hour.

“Last but not least is the 30 minute airport service which offers people living in Kingswells and indeed the wider area, the opportunity to leave their car at the Park & Ride and hop on a bus to the airport”.

Timetables for service 747 and 757 are now available to download at stagecoachbus.com. 

Printed copies will soon be available to pick up in Aberdeen bus station, Kingswells P&R, Ellon P&R, Peterhead Interchange and Aberdeen Airport.

Plastic Roads Update


Aberdeen City Council has agreed to keep current developments on plastic roads firmly on its radar. This was agreed unanimously at the Operational Delivery Committee in response to Lib Dem Councillor Steve Delaney’s Notice of Motion.

In its most basic form, plastic was first used to fill potholes in India over 20 years ago, though the process was pretty basic at the time and has changed significantly over the years. One of the first main highways to include the use of plastic was constructed in Chennai, India in 2002 and it has yet to show any significant signs of wear or tear.

Since then technology has moved on and roads with plastic content have been in more common use in Australia and the USA for a number of years where they has proved to be more durable than traditional roads. Over the past five years this technology has been used to resurface 21,000 miles of roads in India.

A new proprietary product has been developed by a UK based company which promises much by way of longer lasting roads, but also taking into account environmental concerns. The process involves replacing bitumen in the asphalt mix with plastic pellets. Very little plastic is used but the result is a stronger, longer lasting road surface which is reputed to be less susceptible to potholes.

A number of trials of this product have already been undertaken with more to come. Dumfries & Galloway, Cumbria & Enfield councils have all carried out trials and Fife Council are said to be looking to trial this product. It has recently been used to resurface a major junction on the A6 and a section of the A7.

Steve said, “With ongoing financial challenges and the poor state of many of our roads, we really need to be open minded to products which may help reduce our costs and keep our roads in a much better condition for much longer.

“The use of new emerging technology is absolutely essential to the future growth and prosperity of the city but I’m sure everyone would agree we must first satisfy ourselves that the product is safe, environmentally friendly and offers the cost savings and durability promised.

“Clearly we need to recognise that we don’t have India’s climate nor indeed Australia’s, with potholes continuing to be a major issue on all our roads and the lifespan of of these roads being much less than in some other parts of the world. So it is essential that we satisfy ourselves that this product will deliver what it promises in in our colder climate”.

The committee agreed to continue to monitor trials of the product elsewhere in the UK and to gather more evidence relating to the durability, longevity and environmental credentials of this product. A further report will come back to committee when there is sufficient evidence to take an informed decision on the possible use of this product.

Steve added, “I truly believe this technology and products derived from it could represent a revolutionary breakthrough for the road construction industry and I was pleased to see the willingness of all councillors to embrace it as long as it proves to be an effective solution for the challenges we face maintaining our roads in Aberdeen”.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Lang Stracht

Start Date and Time : 12 February 2019 07:30
End Date and Time : 15 February 2019 17:00

Location : Lang Stracht

Description : The effect of the order is to impose temporary restrictions as per the schedule below;

From 07:30 on 12 February, 2019, until 17:00 on 15 February, 2019 there will be a prohibition of driving on Lang Stracht, Aberdeen, on the access to the inset road east of lighting pole number 108.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during carriageway patching works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route for egress will be available via the construction site to Maidencraig Way.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Windford Road

Start Date and Time : 04 February 2019 07:30
End Date and Time : 01 March 2019 17:30

Location : Windford Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30 on 4 February, 2019, until 17:30 on 1 March, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Windford Road, Aberdeen, between its junctions Sheddocksley Road and Sheddocksley Drive.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretch of road from 07:30-17:30 Mon-Fri.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense. Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during footway surfacing works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Sheddocksley Drive and Sheddocksley Road.

AWPR Bus Services Start This Month

Following on from an earlier announcement, Stagecoach have now finalised their plans for bus services which will make use of the AWPR offering faster connections between Montrose and Ellon, using Kingswells Park & Ride, including stops at Aberdeen Airport and Kirkhill Industrial Estate,

Their full press release is reprinted below.

·        Bus services will make use of the new AWPR from 21st January 2019
·        Customer feedback shapes additional new route – service 757
·        Hourly connections from Ellon and Stonehaven to Aberdeen Airport
·        Half hourly connections from Kingswells P&R to Aberdeen Airport

Stagecoach North Scotland today confirmed two new bus services will begin operation on Monday 21st January using the AWPR improving journey times for those choosing to travel by bus.

Following the public timetable consultation in September 2018, the local bus operator has reviewed all feedback received and has finalised plans for the first bus services to operate on the AWPR.

Service 747 will be introduced on Monday 21st January offering a new link across Aberdeenshire and Angus. The new service will replace services 107 and current 747 and will operate an hourly frequency throughout most of the day between Montrose and Ellon using the AWPR. The service will operate from Montrose to Stonehaven before serving Kingswells Park and Ride and Aberdeen Airport. The service will then continue to Ellon and some journeys will also extend to Cruden Bay and Peterhead.

Service 757 will be introduced from the same date providing a direct link to the airport from Portlethen and Newtonhill. Residents in Portlethen and Newtonhill provided feedback in the timetable consultation requesting if a service could be introduced to the airport rather than connecting to 747 in Stonehaven. On reviewing the feedback Stagecoach has been able to introduce service 757 shaped by the feedback received from these communities. The 757 service will operate up to every hour 7 days a week to the airport and will also stop at Kingswells P&R.

Kingswells Park and Ride will benefit from both of the new bus services and as a result journeys from the popular Park and Ride site to the airport will be available by bus up to every 30 minutes, 7 days a week.

Both services will be operated by low-floor easy access buses fitted with the latest tracking technology as well as the ability to accept contactless payments.

The award-winning JET service 727 connecting the city centre to the airport up to every 10 minutes will continue to the current timetable.

David Liston, Managing Director, Stagecoach North Scotland said: “We are delighted to be able to start the new year by introducing two new services to our Aberdeenshire network. In our autumn timetable consultation we received a lot of support for the new service 747 providing a direct bus connection to the airport. On reviewing consultation feedback from residents in Newtonhill and Portlethen we have been able to identify a solution that means these communities will also be connected to the airport from 21st January. We look forward to welcoming both old and new customers on board our new services later this month.”

From Monday 21st January services 50, 54, 60, 61, 63 and 81are subject to revision in the Buchan Travel Guide. These revisions are minor with only some early morning journeys being re-timed and additional journeys on service 50 to accommodate the route revision on service 747 in the Buchan area.

Timetables for service 747 and 757 are now available to download online and printed copies will soon be available to pick up in Aberdeen bus station, Kingswells P&R, Ellon P&R, Peterhead Interchange and Aberdeen Airport.

Aberdeen City Council Backs People’s Vote

People's Vote logoLiberal Democrats have welcomed Aberdeen City Council’s backing for their call for a People’s Vote on the Brexit deal negotiated by the Prime Minister.

The council agreed by 22 votes to 9 to back a motion from Liberal Democrat Group Leader Ian Yuill calling for a People’s Vote  at its meeting on Monday 17th December.

Aberdeen City Council’s Lib Dem leader Ian Yuill said “We now know that promises made about Brexit, like £350 million a week extra for the NHS and getting a deal with the ‘exact same benefits’ as EU membership, cannot be kept.

“Since the start of the month it has become blindingly clear that the Brexit process is a mess and the Prime Minister’s exit deal is clearly doomed.

“Given all this, it does not seem right to tell people, as the UK Government is doing, that the public should just accept without question whatever version of Brexit we ultimately face on 29th March next year.”

Ian Yuill concluded “A People’s Vote would put the UK’s citizens back in control and give everyone the chance to decide whether the Prime Minister’s deal is good for the country and if the UK should leave the EU on those terms.”

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Hogmanay

Start Date and Time : 30 December 2018 18:00
End Date and Time : 01 January 2019 06:00

Location : Hogmanay

Description : Aberdeen City Council has made the above-named orders to provide for a wide range of traffic management arrangements, under powers conferred upon it by Section 62(1) of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984, and Section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, in connection with the Aberdeen City Council Hogmanay Fireworks event 2018.

The temporary traffic management arrangements are shown in the schedule below, and will apply at the times indicated therein.

Road Closures From 13:00 on 31 December 2018 to 06:00 on 1 January 2019 • Schoolhill, Aberdeen, between its junction with Blackfriars Street and Upperkirkgate.

• Blackfriars Street, Aberdeen, (whole length)

• St Andrew Street, Aberdeen between its junctions with Blackfriars Street and Charlotte Street.

• Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Schoolhill and the Union Terrace slip road.

• Belmont Street, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Schoolhill and Little Belmont Street.

• Gaelic Lane, Aberdeen, (whole length)

• Back Wynd, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Schoolhill and Little Belmont Street.

From 20:00 on 31 December 2018 to 06:00 on 1 January 2019

• Upperkirkgate, Aberdeen, between its junction with Schoolhill and Flourmill Lane.

From 22:00 on 31 December 2018 to 06:00 on 1 January 2019

• Harriet Street, Aberdeen, (whole length)

• Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Skene Street and the Union Terrace Slip road.

• Union Terrace, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Rosemount Viaduct and Union Street

• Skene Street, Aberdeen, from its junction with Woolmanhill Roundabout to its junction with Rosemount Viaduct

• Spa Street, Aberdeen, from the access into Denburn car park to its junction with Skene Street.

• Back Wynd, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Little Belmont Street and Union Street.

• Diamond Place, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Diamond Street and Union Terrace.

• The whole of Bridge Place, Aberdeen,

• The whole of Bath Street, Aberdeen.

• The whole of Windmill Brae, Aberdeen,

• The whole of Windmill Lane, Aberdeen,

From 23:30 on 31 December 2018 to 00:45 on 1 January 2019

• Union Street, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Crown Street and Market Street.

From 23:50 on 31 December 2018 to 00:30 on 1 January 2019

• Denburn Road, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Woolmanhill Roundabout and Wapping Street.

Temporary One-Way system, From 13:00 until 22:00 on 31 December 2018

Little Belmont Street, Aberdeen, travelling eastbound, for taxi’s only.

Temporary suspension of One-Way system, From 13:00 until 22:00 on 31 December 2018

St Catherine’s Wynd, Aberdeen,

Temporary suspensions of turning bans From 13:00 on 31 December 2018 to 06:00 on 1 January 2019

Skene Street, Aberdeen, into Rosemount Viaduct (right turn), for buses only

From 23:30 on 31 December 2018 to 00:45 on 1 January 2019

Union Street, Aberdeen, into Crown Street (right turn)

Temporary suspensions of no entry From 13:00 until 22:00 on 31 December 2018

Union Street, Aberdeen, into Belmont Street for taxi’s and delivery vehicles only.

Parking Restrictions From 18:00 on 30 December 2018 to 06:00 on 1 January 2019

• Diamond Street, Aberdeen, on either side, between Union Street and Ruby Lane.

• Bridge Street, Aberdeen, on either side, between its junctions with Union Street and Wapping Street.

• Union Terrace, Aberdeen, on either side, between its junctions with Union Street and Rosemount Viaduct.

• Schoolhill, Aberdeen, on either side, between its junctions with Back Wynd and Rosemount Viaduct including outside RGC (Pocket Park)

• Little Belmont Street, Aberdeen, on either side, between its junctions with Belmont Street and

Back Wynd From 18:00 on 30 December 2018 to 22:00 on 31 December 2018

• Rosemount Place, Aberdeen, on the south side, between Skene Square and the west boundary of 25 Rosemount Place.

Alarming Increase In Food Bank Use

Photo of food on shelvesFood bank use in the UK has soared to record levels this year. That so many people are having to use food banks to get help for their families and themselves should be unnecessary in the UK – one of the richest countries in the world.

Worryingly, much of this increase in food bank use has been linked to the continuing introduction of Universal Credit by the UK Government. Universal Credit has only recently been introduced for new benefit claimants here in the North East. It has still to be introduced for people already claiming benefits.

Reasons for using food banks include:

  • Low income
  • Benefit delays
  • Benefit changes
  • Debt
  • Homelessness
  • Ill health

There are a number of food banks in Aberdeen. These include food banks operated by Aberdeen Cyrenians, CFINE, Instant Neighbour, TLC and the Trussell Trust. All these food banks accept donations. You can make donations of food to food banks directly or by using collection points in places such as some community centres, churches and supermarkets.

The types of non-perishable items you can donate to a food bank include:

  • Tinned meals
  • Tinned soup
  • Tinned fish
  • Tinned meat
  • Tinned vegetables
  • Baked beans
  • Rice
  • Pasta
  • Cooking sauces
  • Cereals
  • Tinned fruit
  • UHT or long life milk
  • Biscuits and snack bars
  • Teabags and instant coffee
  • Sugar
  • Diluting juice
  • Dog and cat food
  • Basic toiletries
  • Nappies

If you, or someone you know, is in difficulty you can find more information about were and when in Aberdeen you can either collect free food or have a meal on the premises here. You may also find it helpful to contact Aberdeen Citizens Advice Bureau.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Harthill Place

Start Date and Time : 07 January 2019 07:30
End Date and Time : 25 January 2019 17:30

Location : Harthill Place

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:30 on 7 January, 2019, until 17:30 on 25 January, 2019, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Harthill Place, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Sheddocksley Road and Sheddocksley Drive.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on the same stretch of road from 07:30-17:30 Mon-Fri. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Access to properties will be maintained, but no through traffic will be possible.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during footway surfacing works. Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Sheddocksley Road, Auchlea Place and Sheddocksley Drive.

Kingswells Lock Block Update

In recent years Aberdeen City Council has been repairing damaged areas in lock block roads with black tar. This has understandably angered local residents as it results in an unsightly blight on what had previously been an attractive road surface.

Local councillor Steve Delaney has raised this issue on numerous occasions in respect of Kingswells where there are a significant number of lock block streets. He said, “I’ve heard various reasons as to why lock block cannot be replaced with lock block (having been given different reasons at different times) but I remained unconvinced that it was either not possible or not cost effective to do so”.

The council agreed earlier this year to replace the cut-de-sac in Corse Wynd with lock block in order to determine the best way forward. These works have still to be carried out and the outcome will help inform a report going to committee next year. This report will look at the cost effectiveness of larger scale lock block replacement to determine the best way forward when it comes to the permanent replacement of these surfaces at the end of their useful life.

Earlier this month the council considered a policy for carrying out temporary repairs on streets with cobbles and pre-cast concrete blocks (which includes lock block). The proposal had been for all temporary repairs to be carried out using black tar as per the current practice. Steve instead proposed that lock block repairs should be carried out using the same or similar materials where it is feasible to do so. This was accepted unanimously by the committee.

Steve said, “I’m delighted that committee have instructed these repairs to be done using lock block whenever it is feasible to do so. The council has an obligation to address road defects which pose a risk to drivers and pedestrians so it was necessary to obtain agreement as to how this will be done in sensitive areas including conservation areas and lock block streets”.

“Unfortunately none of this changes the priority for road repairs. These will only be carried out if they meet the set criteria (as is the case at present) and the replacement of lock block road surfaces will continue to be prioritised for replacement in the same manner as all other streets in Aberdeen and assessed against the very limited roads budget”.

“However, what it does mean is that small localised repairs will now be done using lock block wherever possible. Larger scale repairs or repairs where the base material beneath the surface has significantly deteriorated or collapsed will still need to be filled with tar to protect the integrity of the road until such times as it can be re-laid or resurfaced. Each street will be consider

ed on its own merits and filling in with black tar will only happen where it is necessary to do so”

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – U90C Tulloch Road

Start Date and Time : 27 October 2018 07:00
End Date and Time : 29 October 2018 18:00

Location : U90C Tulloch Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:00 on 27 October, 2018, until 18:00 on 29 October, 2018, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on the U90C Tulloch Road, Aberdeen, between its junctions with the C89C Chapel of Stoneywood-Fairley Road and Parkhead Farm Road.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route works.

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via the C89C Chapel of Stoneywood-Fairley Road, A944 Skene Road, and the C93C Borrowstone Road.

Consultation On Cross City Transport Connections

Aberdeen City Council is consulting on cross city routes to make sure the full benefits of the AWPR are locked in.

These are new roads designed to create direct links between residential areas and main centres of employment. The intention is for these routes to offer real alternatives to car use, making public transport and active travel more attractive for people to get to and from work.

Lib Dem Infrastructure Spokesman, Steve Delaney said, “As a city we need to ensure we make best use of the future transport opportunities afforded to us by the opening of the AWPR. In that respect I would encourage everyone to feed into the consultation and make their views known”.

“Whilst fully supporting the need to investigate these options, we would expect them to take full account the needs of not just motorists and public transport but also of cyclists and pedestrians in their overall design”.

“These should not be considered as desirable bolt-ons, otherwise we will simply dilute the sustainability of any such scheme”.

The council wants to know your views on the nine options under consideration.

The consultation runs until 30 November 2018 and can be accessed here.

More Diversions On The 14 Route

From 19 November a new timetable comes into play for the No 14 bus route from Kingswells to the city centre. These long awaited changes are designed to improve reliability on what has, to date, been a very poorly performing service. It had been intended for the changes to come in from 12 November but this will now be implemented a week later than originally envisaged

However, from 12 November to 6 January, Broad Street and Upperkirkgate will be closed for the Winter Village and all bus routes will be diverted. As a result, the 14 will operate via Union Square bus station instead. The council has given assurances that the expected improvements in reliability based on the new timetable operating from 19 November will not be affected.

Local councillor Steve Delaney said, “The need to alter this route once again, this time using a different diversion, is unhelpful for residents who just want to know how best to get to and from their destination without concerning themselves about what else is going on in the city centre. People want an easy life without constant disruption”.

“Everyone knows my view that Broad Street should be fully pedestrianised on the grounds of public safety and also to improve the pedestrian experience for everyone visiting the area. Lengthy enforced closures such as this merely reinforce that view from a different perspective with regard to confusion and inconvenience to the travelling public”.

“Surely it would make more sense to devise permanent routes which avoid Broad Street in the first place and do not require diversions during the time major events are being held in the city centre”.

 

Leaf Clearing

As the leaves fall from the trees and Autumn arrives, the big leaf clearing exercise commences.

The council has hired additional machinery to try to get this job done as quickly as possible and their aim is to complete works by the end of the year.

Local councillor Steve Delaney said, “I know piles of leaves are unsightly but diverting the crews to specific locations holds up their schedule and results in the clearance work taking much longer, which benefits nobody”.

“I would therefore request that residents only report areas which present a genuine safety concern and that way we will get all areas cleared of leaves much faster”.

“Needless to say, please do report any council maintained areas which have not been cleared by the New Year which you feel may have been missed out”.

Further Changes To Lang Stracht Will Affect Residents

Aberdeen City Council has approved road layout changes to Lang Stracht affecting the section from Skye Road to the bus gate on Old Lang Stracht.

The current signalised junction at the entrance to the new build properties at Maidencraig will be removed at an unspecified future date and replaced by two signalised junctions, one at Dobbies, the other on the opposite side of the road between Dobbies and the bus gate.

The result of this being that residents will only be permitted to turn left onto Lang Stracht from the current east signalised junction and will need to travel through the development in the wrong direction to one of these two new junctions to turn right and head into town.

Furthermore, these two new junctions will take the place of the single junction which had been specified in the Maidencraig Masterplan, resulting in yet another set of traffic lights on Lang Stracht.

Local councillor Steve Delaney had asked the Planning Committee to refuse the application. He said, “I have to agree with the objectors as this proposal would result in them having to heading west when wanting to go east and face significant hold ups at peak times. Also, the staggered west junction was certainly not in the original plans and it breaks up the inter-connectivity throughout the site, which is not in the interests of those who live there”.

“With this staggered arrangement residents will come out of the scheme further west and much nearer to the roundabout at the end of the Lang Stracht than to the eastern side of the site. This roundabout is a bottleneck at peak times with significant delays and will only get worse as a radial route to the AWPR and with the addition of traffic from Maidencraig, so the extra traffic heading towards the roundabout will get stuck stuck here, impeding easy access to Kingswells, the AWPR and further afield from Lang Stracht”.

Steve went on to emphasise the additional hold ups and congestion an extra set of traffic lights would cause on this short stretch of road. He also highlighted safety concerns if residents decided to ignore the left in, left out regulation and turn right anyway, cutting across two opposing traffic flows on Lang Stracht. He advised councillors that the signalised junction was currently in place and removing it would be a retrograde step.

He continued, “My biggest concern is that a failure to address capacity issues on the Lang Stracht will grind this road to a halt, not in 10 or 20 years but very much sooner. It’s already near gridlock for a spell during morning peak. For years I’ve been calling for the council to dual the Lang Stracht but instead we have a proposal which seeks to exacerbate traffic flow on this route, not improve it”.

The committee did not support Steve’s call to scrap the proposals, instead voting to remove the signalised east junction and therefore the ability to turn right, when 400 houses are built, and to introduce two staggered signalised junctions further west in place of single junction originally planned at Dobbies.

 

Kingswells Buses Update

The poor timekeeping of the No 14 has been a bone of contention with Kingswells residents since the service was introduced some months ago.

People are accepting of the half hourly peak service (hourly off-peak) as long as the bus arrives on time.

Late running buses have caused all sorts of problems in recent months with people missing appointments, arriving late for work and getting stranded in town unable to get home.

Steve Delaney, Lib Dem councillor for the area, has received numerous complaints from residents and was in regular contact with the council’s Public Transport Unit throughout the summer.

Steve said, “Residents will be pleased to know that a new timetable is to be introduced on 12th November which will hopefully address the timekeeping issues by building in extra time for the journey”.

“In addition, an hourly service will operate on Sundays from around the same time. This was intended to be included in the contract from the outset but had to be dropped due to cost.”

“Funding was recently identified from monies raised as a result of fines from motorists who have used bus lanes or bus gates during restricted periods”.

The aim is to grow the service so it gets to a point where it no longer requires council subsidy. Despite the poor timekeeping, the No 14 has seen significant growth in passenger number since it took over from the shuttle bus at the end of April.

Steve concluded, “Stagecoach really need to get their act together this time and ensure that reliability issues and missing buses become a thing of the past.”

“Only when we get to the point where the service is once again financially viable will we have secured the long term future of this essential bus service”.

New Bus Stop For Kingswells Village Centre

A  new bus stop is to be put in place heading north bound close to the junction of Kingswood Drive and Kingswells Drive. Currently there is no bus stop between Broaddykes and the Health Centre as a result of numerous changes to bus routes which saw Kingswells Drive cut out of the route.

Local councillor Steve Delaney said, “I’m delighted the council has agreed to put in place an additional bus stop near the shops to replace the redundant stop at the top of Kingswells Drive. This has been requested by a number of residents, especially people living in Kingswood Mews as well as people looking to stop off at the Village Centre on their way home”.

Council To Investigate “Plastic Roads”

Aberdeen City Council’s Operational Delivery Committee has unanimously agreed to Lib Dem Councillor Steve Delaney’s proposal to look at carrying out a trial of “plastic roads” in Aberdeen.

Steve said, “I was delighted to have all party support to further investigate this exciting new product which claims to offer longer lasting road surfaces and pothole filling at lower costs. Given the council’s commitment to double its budget for road and pavement resurfacing over the next five years, my hope is not that we can do this for less, but that we can get more for our money”.

In its most basic form, plastic was first used to fill potholes in India over 20 years ago, though the process was pretty basic at the time and has changed significantly over the years. One of the first main highways to include the use of plastic was constructed in Chennai, India in 2002 and it has yet to display any significant signs of wear or tear.

Since then technology has moved on and the term plastic roads is perhaps a little misleading as the amount of plastic actually used in the current product is significantly less than was used in the early roads, but instead it is merely sufficient  to offer much greater durability than that of current road surfacing products.

Plastic bags and plastic bottles are used to create pellets which are mixed with asphalt, replacing a significant amount of bitumen,  to fill potholes or to completely resurface roads.  The cost of the product is reputed to be up to 50% less than traditional roads and the maintenance costs observed elsewhere are significantly reduced.

The only company in the UK currently offering this product is MacRebur, based in Eaglesfield, Dumfries & Galloway. They further developed the concept after having received a £1m investment boost following their successful entry in the 2016 Virgin Voom competition. Sir Andy Murray is another major investor in this enterprise. The product is sold to asphalt manufacturers who can then incorporate it into their road mix. 

Similar technology has been in use elsewhere in Europe, Australia and the USA for a number of years where it has helped lower construction costs and has proved to be more durable than traditional roads. Over the past five years this technology has been used to resurface 21,000 miles of roads in India.

Currently Dumfries & Galloway, Cumbria & Enfield councils have all carried out resurfacing trials and Fife Council are believed to be considering a trial involving pothole repairs using this product, It has recently been used to resurface a junction onto the A6 near Caithwaite and a section of the A7 in the Lake District. In the case of the A7 project, 500,00 plastic bottles and 800,000 plastic bags were diverted from landfill.

Steve said, “The re-use of our plastic bags and plastic bottles in the process would be a positive outcome as would the increased durability of these roads.On the face of it this product appears to have strong environment credentials as well as offering cost savings”. 

“It was agreed that council officers will look further at the possibilities regarding the use of this product in Aberdeen. They will also consult with colleagues elsewhere in the UK to obtain feedback on trials already undertaken.  I am clearly hopeful that this will lead to a trial being conducted in Aberdeen in the very near future”.

“I’m pleased to have been in a position to bring this matter to the attention of the council and I appreciate the support of all councillors in agreeing to explore the possibilities further”.

Winter Maintenance Plan Approved

Last winter was a challenging one which just seemed to drag on. During this time  we some of the best examples of keeping the primary routes clear, despite it being the worst winter for a number of years.

However, icy pavements were amongst the worst we had seen with many people unable to get out and about and a number of accidents having occurred.

Each year the council reviews last winter’s operations with a view to learning lessons from what worked well what did not. It’s important to acknowledge that depending on the severity of a winter, we will as citizens always expect more than can reasonably deliver.

Of course the key to improvement is learning from what did and didn’t work well last year and seeking to improve upon it for next year.

Commenting on changes coming in this winter, Lib Dem Environment & Infrastructure spokesman Steve Delaney said, “Following shortages and delays in supplying salt bags to residents last winter I’m delighted to see a number of changes moving forward. These  one tonne salt bags will be publicised earlier and there will be a cut off date of 1st November”.

“It will now be easier for residents who have no space for a tonne of salt, to be access alternative options. These include a limited availability of 10kg buckets of salt and 20 huge grit bins located at convenient locations across the city where residents can fill up their own buckets with salt”.

“The introduction of 1 tonne salt bags and the smaller alternatives were both Lib Dem ideas as was the suggestion we work with other local authorities to share good practice, reduce costs and improve effectiveness”,

“I welcome the incorporation of these ideas into our regular winter maintenance programmes, especially with respect to the salt bags for which demand outstripped supply last winter”.

“Unfortunately our proposals to invest in additional personnel and machinery for clearing pavements and for snow clearing equipment intended for community use fell by the wayside, but hopefully these are proposals the council can reflect upon further as we seek to further build on community resilience moving forward”.

More information can be found here.

Please note at the time of posting the linked webpage has not been updated for 2018/19 though the link to order one tonne salt bags does work.

Council Backs Lib Dem Initiative On Community Speedwatch

Liberal Democrat councillor Ian Yuill has welcomed the unanimous backing of Aberdeen City Council’s Operational Delivery Committee for his proposal about introducing “Community Speedwatch” in Aberdeen.

Ian Yuill said “Community Speedwatch involves local volunteers being trained by the police to operate speed guns. The volunteers then monitor speeds at locations agreed by the police. The volunteers do not stop speeders or issue speeding tickets. What the do do is pass information about speeding vehicles to the police. Drivers recorded as speeding are then typically ‘educated’ by the police.”

Ian Yuill continued “I am delighted by the committee’s unanimous support for my proposal. Community Speedwatch works successfully elsewhere in the UK and I do not believe there is any reason why it could not work here in Aberdeen. I believe Community Speedwatch could help make a real difference to speeding in communities across Aberdeen.

“Community Speedwatch could reduce speeds and make our roads safer for drivers and pedestrians alike. I very much hope the police decide to introduce Community Speedwatch in Aberdeen.”

Have You Lost TV Channels Recently?

If you use Freeview you may have noticed you are no longer able to receive a number of your TV channels following the automated re-tuning which took place on or around 15th August. This is due to a number of the channels having been moved to different frequencies to free up space for 5G mobile networks. In many cases your aerial just requires to be moved slightly or your require a signal booster. In some cases you may need a new aerial.

Steve Delaney said, “After the re-tune I found I had lost about 20 channels but I remembered having received a postcard from Freeview advising this might happen so I called them. They sent someone round to take a look at it, fitted a new rooftop aerial and I’m now receiving even more channels than I had before the upgrade”.

“Due to the act that this is a Government initiative, the costs of any labour and parts required will be covered by Freeview provided the fault can be attributed to the recent upgrade. So it you have lost Freeview channels give them a call to discuss the problem before you consider trying to fix it yourself”.

Freeview’s Advice Line is on 0808 100 0288 or you can read more about it here.

Please note. This only affects Freeview televisions and Freeview (or Youview) boxes. If you have Sky or Freesat your channels will not have been affected by this change.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Kingswood Drive

Start Date and Time : 25 September 2018 05:30
End Date and Time : 28 September 2018 22:00

Location : Kingswood Drive

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 05:30 on 25 September, 2018, until 22:00 on 28 September, 2018, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Kingswood Drive, Aberdeen, between its southern junction with the C89C Chapel of Stoneywood-Fairley Road and Bellfield View.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during carriageway resurfacing works. Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council Roads Maintenance team on 03000 200292, or response@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Fairley Road, the C89C Chapel of Stoneywood-Fairley Road and Kingswells Roundabout.

PLEASE NOTE that contrary to previous proposals, the C89C road from the Kingswells Roundabout to Bucksburn WILL NOT now be closed and there WILL NOT be a diversion on a section of the AWPR. The information above represents the latest update and is designed to minimise disruption during the resurfacing works.

Get Involved @ Kingsford School

The Kingsford School Parent Council works alongside the school on issues which are importance to parents.

They also organise various events, all of which raise funds which help the school, reduce the cost of school trips and much more.

Joining the Parent Council isn’t onerous and won’t take up much of your time, but the more people get involved, the more they can do for the school and for our children.

They are a friendly informal bunch of parents who get together a few times a year and they would welcome some more parents joining their ranks. It’s a good way to get to know some of other parents too, especially if your child has just started nursery or P1.

So why not come along and find out a bit more?

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Skye Road

Start Date and Time : 01 September 2018 05:00
End Date and Time : 21 September 2018 17:00

Location : Skye Road

Description : The effect of the order, is to close Skye Road, Aberdeen, between its junctions with Raasay Gardens and Lang Stracht, from 05:00 until 18:00 on 1 September, 2018.

There will then be a one-way restriction on the same stretch of road from 18:00 on 1 September, 2018, until 17:00 on 21 September, 2018.

The permitted direction of travel will be southbound only.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during traffic signal refurbishment works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to Aberdeen City Council ITS Unit on 03000 200292, or TrafficLights@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Lang Stracht, Lewis Road and Arran Avenue.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Lang Stracht

Start Date and Time : 03 September 2018 19:00
End Date and Time : 15 September 2018 07:00

Location : Lang Stracht

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 19:00 on 3 September, 2018, until 07:00 on 15 September, 2018, is to impose a temporary 20mph speed restriction imposed on Lang Stracht, Aberdeen, between two points 100 metres either side of its junction with the access road to Dobbies Garden Centre.

The measure is necessary to protect public safety during carriageway surfacing works. Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed MTM Construction on 01224 790888, or roadworkscoordination@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Changes in Temporary Traffic Order – Fairley Road Edmond Gardens

Start Date and Time : 04 August 2018 09:00
End Date and Time : 04 August 2018 17:00

Location : Fairley Road Edmond Gardens

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 09:00 until 17:00 on 4 August, 2018, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Edmond Gardens, Aberdeen, between its southern junction with Fairley Road and the driveway at the side of number 27 Fairley Road.

An alternative route is available via the northern junction of Fairley Road and Edmond Gardens.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on Fairley Road, Aberdeen, between two points 10 metres either side of its southern junction with Edmond Gardens.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during ironwork repairs being carried out by Scottish Water.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to A-Plant Lux on 01698 745069, scotlandtraffic@aplant.com

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via the northern junction of Fairley Road and Edmond Gardens.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Fairley Road Edmond Gardens

Start Date and Time : 04 August 2018 09:00
End Date and Time : 04 August 2018 17:00

Location : Fairley Road Edmond Gardens

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 09:00 until 17:00 on 4 August, 2018, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Edmond Gardens, Aberdeen, between its northern junction with Fairley Road and the driveway at number 24 Edmond Gardens.

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on Fairley Road, Aberdeen, between two points 10 metres either side of its northern junction with Edmond Gardens.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during ironwork repairs being carried out by Scottish Water.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to A-Plant Lux on 01698 745069, scotlandtraffic@aplant.com

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via the southern junction of Fairley Road and Edmond Gardens.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – C93C Borrowstone Road

Start Date and Time : 30 June 2018 07:00
End Date and Time : 01 July 2018 19:00

Location : C93C Borrowstone Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 07:00 until 19:00 on 30 June, 2018, and from 07:00 until 19:00 1 July, 2018, is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on the C93C Borrowstone Road, Aberdeen, between its junction with the A944 Skene Road and Westholme Cottage.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route works.

Any queries regarding this restriction can be directed to AWPR Construction Joint Venture on 0800 058 8350, or community@awprcjv.com

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via the A944 Skene Road, Westhill Drive, and B979 Kirkton of Skene-Tyrebagger.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Old Skene Road

Start Date and Time : 06 August 2018 08:00
End Date and Time : 11 August 2018 22:00

Location : Old Skene Road

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 08:00 on 6th August, 2018, until 22:00 on 11th August, 2018, is to impose a temporary prohibition of waiting on either side of Old Skene Road, Aberdeen, from the entrance to Kingswood House to the gable end of number 72 Old Skene Road.

Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense.

The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones.

The measure is necessary to protect public safety during manhole repair work.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Borrowstone Road

Start Date and Time : 26 June 2018 07:00
End Date and Time : 17 July 2017 17:00

Location : Borrowstone Road

Description : The effect of the order is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on the following roads;

The C93C Borrowstone Road, Aberdeen, between Westholme and Hillside, from 07:00 on 26 June, 2018, until 17:00 on 27 June, 2018, and from 07:00 until 17:00 on 10 July, 2018, and from 07:00 until 17:00 on 17 July, 2018.

There will also be a 20mph speed limit enforced on the same stretch of road from 07:00 on 10 July, 2018, until 17:00 on 17 July, 2018.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during carriageway surface dressing works being carried out by Aberdeen City Council.

New Temporary Traffic Order Imposed – Ross Crescent

Start Date and Time : 09 July 2018 10:00
End Date and Time : 09 July 2018 22:00

Location : Ross Crescent

Description : The effect of the order, which will operate from 10:00 until 22:00 on 9th July, 2018 is to impose a temporary prohibition of driving on Ross Crescent, Aberdeen, between its junction with Mastrick Road and a point 10 metres in a southerly direction.

The measures are necessary to protect public safety during duct laying works being carried out by City Fibre

Alternate Route : An alternative route is available via Mastrick Road, Arnage Place, and Arnage Drive.