The McDonald Public Park Endowment Trustees met on Monday 28 September 2026 to discuss landscape services activities, the future of McDonald Park allotments, and the park's byelaws. The minutes of the previous meeting were approved, and updates on the discussed topics were noted.

Landscape Services Activities

The Trustees received an update on recent landscape services activities within McDonald Park. All tree planting works had been completed with good survival rates. Improvements were being made to the park entrance on Golf Road, including the cleaning, repair, and painting of the noticeboard. Work was also underway to scrape back and improve the tarred car park at Caroline's Well Woods. A discussion took place regarding the lining of this car park, with the explanation that it currently functions well without designated spaces, and lining could potentially reduce capacity. Future bulb planting opportunities were to be discussed between the Landscape Services Officer and the Countryside Ranger.

Concerns were raised about lower stretches of tree planting at Caroline's Well Woods having been uprooted and destroyed. The Landscape Services Officer and Countryside Ranger were unaware of this damage and undertook to investigate. They were also asked to examine the condition of benches within the woods at McDonald Park. The Trustees noted the update provided.

McDonald Park Allotments

An update was given on the McDonald Park allotments, following a meeting with current allotment holders and those on the waiting list. The aim is to move the allotments from the Council's Housing Revenue Account to allow them to be run by a community group. There was reported enthusiasm for this proposal from stakeholders, with one interested party agreeing to convene a working group. The Formartine Area Manager stated that confirmation from this working group would be needed to progress discussions with the Housing Service. In the interim, discussions had already led to a re-invigoration of the site's use. The Trustees noted this update.

McDonald Park Byelaws

The Principal Solicitor provided an update on the park's byelaws, which date back to 1956. While they have been helpful in regulating the park's use, they are considered outdated given the current state of McDonald Park. Trustees all agreed that they were content with the principle of revoking or replacing the current byelaws. The Principal Solicitor will investigate this further and report back at a future meeting.

Separately, Mr. Stewart MacLeod of Ellon Golf Club raised concerns about dogs being allowed to roam freely on the golf greens, which he described as extremely dangerous. He has been in discussions with the Area Office and Countryside Rangers regarding the installation of new signage between the 17th and 18th holes. The Countryside Rangers have designed signage that references the Outdoor Access Code, which the Golf Course has agreed to. Further discussions will take place regarding the number and placement of these signs, as well as the available budget. Trustees were in agreement to the principle of the signs.

Date of Next Meeting

A date for the next meeting, scheduled for March 2027, will be arranged.