The Garioch Area Committee met on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, to discuss a range of local issues. Key decisions included the approval of the Roads and Infrastructure Programmes of Work for 2026-27 and an update on 2025-26 works, the agreement to maintain the current 30mph speed limit on the A947 in Newmachar, and the approval of an asset transfer request for Leslie Old School to the Insch, Leslie and District Men's Shed.

Roads and Infrastructure Programmes of Work 2026-27 and Update on 2025-26 Works

The committee received a comprehensive report detailing the proposed programmes of work for roads and infrastructure for 2026-27, alongside an update on the delivery of works planned for 2025-26. Councillors noted the proposed budget allocations for roads, winter maintenance, and flood management, as well as capital funding for resurfacing, drainage, street lighting, bridges, and coastal protection.

A significant point of discussion was the reduction in funding for bridges, with a decrease of £4.735 million compared to the previous year. This shift in budget allocation from bridges to road maintenance was acknowledged, with officers explaining that the prioritised lists of schemes are dynamic and subject to change based on asset condition, risk, and cost-benefit analysis. The report highlighted that current funding levels for roads maintenance remain below steady-state levels, leading to a managed decline of the road network.

Despite the challenges, the committee approved the revenue-funded works proposed for the Garioch area and made comments to the Infrastructure Services Committee regarding the capital-funded works. A specific comment was raised for consideration by the Infrastructure Services Committee regarding the potential use of non-ring-fenced funding from the Scottish Government for flood studies, given that four flood studies are already awaiting funding.

The committee also noted the status of various works, including updates on major maintenance, resurfacing, surface dressing, drainage, and lighting. Notably, a significant number of proposed works across all areas were listed as No action taken due to budgetary constraints.

A947 Newmachar Speed Limit Discussion

The committee discussed the speed limit on the A947 at the southern end of Newmachar. It was clarified that this section of road had been incorrectly presented as a 30mph limit on approved plans during the wider 20mph speed limit programme rollout, when it should have remained at 40mph. Although a 30mph limit would be permissible under council policy, it was not the original intention to make this change. The report confirmed that the correct statutory process had been followed for the implemented speed limit order, which came into force in September 2025. Despite the procedural correctness, members expressed concerns about the lack of full scrutiny at the time. Following discussion, the committee agreed to maintain the current 30mph speed limit, acknowledging the concerns raised by members and the support for a lower speed limit from the local community council during the initial consultation.

Asset Transfer Request for Leslie Old School

The committee considered an Asset Transfer Request (ATR) from the Insch, Leslie and District Men's Shed (ILDMS) for the Old School at Leslie. The report detailed the ILDMS's vision to transform the building into a community hub, addressing social isolation, promoting skills development, and enhancing community wellbeing.

The ILDMS, a registered Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), presented a strong business plan outlining their capacity to manage the asset, including a diverse membership with relevant skills and a track record of community projects. They highlighted the poor condition of the building and the need for significant maintenance, which they plan to undertake through a phased approach, leveraging member skills and seeking external funding.

The financial projections indicated that ILDMS would be self-sufficient in covering operational costs, with grant applications and self-generated funds from activities contributing to larger projects and upgrades. The report noted that the market value of the Old School premises is £46,000, but ILDMS requested outright ownership for a nominal sum of £1, based on the significant community benefits they anticipate delivering.

The committee heard from various councillors who expressed strong support for the proposal, commending the ILDMS's work and the realistic assessment of the building's condition. Concerns were raised regarding the inclusivity of the Men's Shed, with discussions around the potential for a She Shed facility and the broader community access to the building. Officers clarified that while the primary focus is on men, the organisation is evolving and aims to deliver wider community benefits. The financial assessment by the council's finance team found no concerns.

Ultimately, the committee agreed to support the asset transfer request, instructing the Area Manager to issue a positive decision notice and the Head of Legal and People to conclude the transfer. This decision aligns with the council's ambitions around community empowerment and the sustainable use of assets.

Statement of Outstanding Business

The committee noted the items of outstanding business as at 21 April 2026. This included ongoing monitoring of commitments related to battery energy storage systems (BESS) developments, specifically regarding training and equipment for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. A joint session with planning and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is planned to provide members with a more detailed briefing on operational response, capacity, and the planning framework for BESS developments. The committee also noted updates on the Thainstone site, including compliance with conditions, future plans, marketing, roadworks, and the position regarding the abattoir.

Public Sector Equality Duty

The committee agreed to uphold their legal duty under Section 149 of the Equality Act 2010, which requires them to have due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, harassment, and victimisation, advance equality of opportunity, and foster good relations between those who share protected characteristics and those who do not. They also agreed to consider the contents of any Integrated Impact Assessments provided and take them into account when reaching decisions.

Minute of Meeting

The committee agreed that the minute of the last meeting held on 21 April 2026 was an accurate record, subject to a minor amendment.