This week in Aberdeenshire:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Adult Social Care Funding and Risk Management

The Clinical and Adult Social Work Governance Committee met on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to review critical aspects of adult social care services. A key focus was the Clinical and Adult Social Work Risk Register and Assurance report, which detailed numerous risks across various categories, including mental health, learning disabilities, and service capacity.

The report highlighted Very High risks such as those related to the North Aberdeenshire and Upper Marr School Nurse Risk Assessment, gaps in substantive Psychiatry posts, and challenges within the Buchan Health Visiting Team. High risks included psychological therapies waiting times, funding allocations, and the risk of bladder and bowel service failure. These risks directly impact the most vulnerable in our communities, potentially leading to longer waiting times for essential mental health support, delayed diagnoses, and reduced access to critical care services.

The committee was presented with recommendations to strengthen risk management, focusing on very high risks, insufficient controls, deteriorating risks, and those requiring escalation. This is crucial for ensuring that services are not only meeting current needs but are also resilient to future challenges. The report indicated that while no risks were being escalated at that moment, the ongoing review process is vital for proactive service management.

The committee also reviewed the Public Sector Equality Duty, a legal obligation to consider how decisions might impact individuals with protected characteristics. This ensures that services are delivered equitably and without discrimination.

• See the Clinical and Adult Social Work Governance Committee agenda and reports: Clinical and Adult Social Work Governance Committee

Macduff Harbour Investment Plan Progresses Amidst Equality Duty Review

The Harbours Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to discuss the ongoing economic development of Macduff Harbour and to consider their Public Sector Equality Duty. The Macduff Harbour Economic Development Implementation Plan (MEDIP) update highlighted significant progress in supporting the local economy, which is estimated to generate approximately 280 jobs and inject £11.2 million annually.

The plan focuses on operational efficiency, infrastructure improvements, and partnership working. Short-term actions have included establishing an out-of-hours Harbour Duty Officer Service and aligning rates and dues with commercial practices, leading to a reported one-third year-on-year increase in cost recovery. Medium-term actions involve digitalising port data and investigating wet maintenance berths. Long-term proposals include electrifying the North Pier and upgrading fish market facilities.

The committee also reviewed their Public Sector Equality Duty, ensuring that decisions made regarding the harbour's development consider the need to eliminate discrimination and advance equality of opportunity. This is particularly important as harbour developments can impact employment opportunities and access to services for diverse groups within the community.

• See the Harbours Sub-Committee agenda and reports: Harbours Sub-Committee

Full Council Addresses Financial Performance, School Closures, and Public Sector Reform

Aberdeenshire Council's full council met on Thursday, 24 September 2026, tackling a broad agenda that included financial performance, significant policy consultations, and the future of local schools.

Financial Performance and Budget Scrutiny

The council reviewed its first quarter financial performance for 2026/27. While a forecast net expenditure below budget was noted, further analysis is required to determine if this is a recurring trend or due to temporary factors. This scrutiny is vital for ensuring responsible use of public funds and maintaining the financial health of services that residents rely on.

Consultation Responses Shape Future Policy

The council noted its responses to several Scottish Government consultations, including those on pre-budget scrutiny for 2027-28, council tax high-value property bands, and public sector reform. These responses reflect the council's commitment to advocating for sustainable public finances, local democracy, and effective service delivery. The consultation on public sector reform, in particular, could have significant implications for how local services are funded, governed, and delivered, impacting everything from social care to waste management.

School Closures and Mergers Spark Community Concern

Proposals for the closure of Kinneff School and the merger of Fintry School and King Edward School were presented. These decisions, following statutory consultations, will have a direct impact on local families and communities, potentially affecting access to education and the vibrancy of rural areas. The reports detailed the consultation findings and officer recommendations, highlighting the difficult choices involved in balancing educational needs with resource constraints.

Other Key Matters

The council also reviewed its annual performance report, acknowledged the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership's annual performance, and received a debrief on the Amber Snow severe weather event. The composition of committees was adjusted following a by-election, and the timetable of meetings for 2027/2028 was approved. A notice of motion urging the UK Government to reduce VAT on domestic heating oil and gas highlighted concerns about the cost of living for households.

• See the Aberdeenshire Council agenda and reports: Aberdeenshire Council

Buchan Area Committee Approves Local Projects and Reviews Festive Lights Policy

The Buchan Area Committee met on Tuesday, 22 September 2026, with a packed agenda covering education, planning, and community funding. A highlight was the overwhelmingly positive Education Scotland inspection report for Peterhead Central School and Nursery Class, which received good ratings across several key areas.

Festive Lights Policy Sparks Debate on Community Costs

The committee discussed proposed changes to the Festive Lights Policy, which would remove location restrictions but place more financial responsibility on communities for infrastructure upgrades and electricity costs. Councillors expressed concerns about the burden on smaller communities and volunteer groups, particularly the proposed five-year upfront electricity charge. The fairness of a population-based allocation formula was also questioned. The committee recommended noting the feedback from public engagement and providing comments to the Infrastructure Services Committee, indicating a need for careful consideration of the financial implications for local groups.

Local Projects Receive Funding Boost

The Buchan Area Project Grant Fund saw five applications approved, totalling £9,874.82. This funding will support initiatives from Longside Football Club to Maud Village Trust, demonstrating a commitment to grassroots community development.

Planning Applications Under Review

Several planning applications were considered, including a dwellinghouse near Mintlaw, which was recommended for approval as a departure from policy due to its greenfield location. An application for a dwellinghouse and outbuilding at Burnhead, St Fergus, was recommended for refusal due to the incorporation of greenfield land, with a site visit agreed. An application for a cabin and mobile sauna at Port Erroll Harbour was deferred for further information on traffic concerns. These decisions reflect the council's role in balancing development needs with environmental and community considerations.

• See the Buchan Area Committee agenda and reports: Buchan Area Committee

Local Review Body Considers Planning Appeals

The Local Review Body met on Friday, 25 September 2026, to consider a series of planning review applications. The committee reviewed its Public Sector Equality Duty, ensuring that decisions are made with due regard to equality and non-discrimination.

The agenda included four new planning review applications, covering diverse issues such as replacement doors in a conservation area, the erection of dwellinghouses in rural and coastal settings, and the change of use of a building to form a dwellinghouse. These reviews are crucial for providing a mechanism for individuals to appeal planning decisions, ensuring fairness and transparency in the planning process. The committee also reviewed a spreadsheet highlighting relevant policies from the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan and the National Planning Framework 4, providing a clear policy context for each application.

• See the Local Review Body agenda and reports: Local Review Body

Other Matters

• Formartine Area Committee: Met on Tuesday, 29 September 2026. Key decisions included the refusal of planning permission for alterations to an access road at Tillycairn Steading, Tarves, on road safety grounds, and the approval of a new toilet block and aires site at Balmedie Beach. The committee also reviewed inspection reports for Balmedie and Ellon Primary Schools, discussed a revised Festive Lights Policy, and considered the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan for 2027-2032.

  • Formartine Area Committee meeting

• Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee: Met on Tuesday, 29 September 2026. Key decisions included the delegated grant of planning permission for 87 new homes in Portlethen, subject to conditions and legal agreements, and the provision of comments on the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032. The committee also discussed proposed revisions to the Festive Lights Policy, with members providing feedback for consideration by the Infrastructure Services Committee.

  • Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee meeting

• IJB Audit Committee: Met on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. The committee was scheduled to review the audited annual accounts for the year ending 31 March 2026, alongside an update on internal audit activities and the partnership's risk management framework. The committee was also scheduled to consider the IJB Counter Fraud Framework and an update on workforce planning.

  • IJB Audit Committee meeting

• McDonald Public Park Endowment Trustees: Met on Monday, 28 September 2026. The meeting was scheduled to receive updates on various park activities and management matters, including landscape services, the status of allotments, and park byelaws.

  • McDonald Public Park Endowment Trustees meeting

• Licensing Sub-Committee: Met on Friday, 02 October 2026. The Sub-Committee considered two applications for short-term let licences, both of which were granted after objections were considered.

  • Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Aberdeenshire:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Adult Social Care Funding and Risk Management

The Clinical and Adult Social Work Governance Committee met on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to review critical aspects of adult social care services. A key focus was the Clinical and Adult Social Work Risk Register and Assurance report, which detailed numerous risks across various categories, including mental health, learning disabilities, and service capacity.

The report highlighted Very High risks such as those related to the North Aberdeenshire and Upper Marr School Nurse Risk Assessment, gaps in substantive Psychiatry posts, and challenges within the Buchan Health Visiting Team. High risks included psychological therapies waiting times, funding allocations, and the risk of bladder and bowel service failure. These risks directly impact the most vulnerable in our communities, potentially leading to longer waiting times for essential mental health support, delayed diagnoses, and reduced access to critical care services.

The committee was presented with recommendations to strengthen risk management, focusing on very high risks, insufficient controls, deteriorating risks, and those requiring escalation. This is crucial for ensuring that services are not only meeting current needs but are also resilient to future challenges. The report indicated that while no risks were being escalated at that moment, the ongoing review process is vital for proactive service management.

The committee also reviewed the Public Sector Equality Duty, a legal obligation to consider how decisions might impact individuals with protected characteristics. This ensures that services are delivered equitably and without discrimination.

• See the Clinical and Adult Social Work Governance Committee agenda and reports: Clinical and Adult Social Work Governance Committee

Macduff Harbour Investment Plan Progresses Amidst Equality Duty Review

The Harbours Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to discuss the ongoing economic development of Macduff Harbour and to consider their Public Sector Equality Duty. The Macduff Harbour Economic Development Implementation Plan (MEDIP) update highlighted significant progress in supporting the local economy, which is estimated to generate approximately 280 jobs and inject £11.2 million annually.

The plan focuses on operational efficiency, infrastructure improvements, and partnership working. Short-term actions have included establishing an out-of-hours Harbour Duty Officer Service and aligning rates and dues with commercial practices, leading to a reported one-third year-on-year increase in cost recovery. Medium-term actions involve digitalising port data and investigating wet maintenance berths. Long-term proposals include electrifying the North Pier and upgrading fish market facilities.

The committee also reviewed their Public Sector Equality Duty, ensuring that decisions made regarding the harbour's development consider the need to eliminate discrimination and advance equality of opportunity. This is particularly important as harbour developments can impact employment opportunities and access to services for diverse groups within the community.

• See the Harbours Sub-Committee agenda and reports: Harbours Sub-Committee

Full Council Addresses Financial Performance, School Closures, and Public Sector Reform

Aberdeenshire Council's full council met on Thursday, 24 September 2026, tackling a broad agenda that included financial performance, significant policy consultations, and the future of local schools.

Financial Performance and Budget Scrutiny

The council reviewed its first quarter financial performance for 2026/27. While a forecast net expenditure below budget was noted, further analysis is required to determine if this is a recurring trend or due to temporary factors. This scrutiny is vital for ensuring responsible use of public funds and maintaining the financial health of services that residents rely on.

Consultation Responses Shape Future Policy

The council noted its responses to several Scottish Government consultations, including those on pre-budget scrutiny for 2027-28, council tax high-value property bands, and public sector reform. These responses reflect the council's commitment to advocating for sustainable public finances, local democracy, and effective service delivery. The consultation on public sector reform, in particular, could have significant implications for how local services are funded, governed, and delivered, impacting everything from social care to waste management.

School Closures and Mergers Spark Community Concern

Proposals for the closure of Kinneff School and the merger of Fintry School and King Edward School were presented. These decisions, following statutory consultations, will have a direct impact on local families and communities, potentially affecting access to education and the vibrancy of rural areas. The reports detailed the consultation findings and officer recommendations, highlighting the difficult choices involved in balancing educational needs with resource constraints.

Other Key Matters

The council also reviewed its annual performance report, acknowledged the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership's annual performance, and received a debrief on the Amber Snow severe weather event. The composition of committees was adjusted following a by-election, and the timetable of meetings for 2027/2028 was approved. A notice of motion urging the UK Government to reduce VAT on domestic heating oil and gas highlighted concerns about the cost of living for households.

• See the Aberdeenshire Council agenda and reports: Aberdeenshire Council

Buchan Area Committee Approves Local Projects and Reviews Festive Lights Policy

The Buchan Area Committee met on Tuesday, 22 September 2026, with a packed agenda covering education, planning, and community funding. A highlight was the overwhelmingly positive Education Scotland inspection report for Peterhead Central School and Nursery Class, which received good ratings across several key areas.

Festive Lights Policy Sparks Debate on Community Costs

The committee discussed proposed changes to the Festive Lights Policy, which would remove location restrictions but place more financial responsibility on communities for infrastructure upgrades and electricity costs. Councillors expressed concerns about the burden on smaller communities and volunteer groups, particularly the proposed five-year upfront electricity charge. The fairness of a population-based allocation formula was also questioned. The committee recommended noting the feedback from public engagement and providing comments to the Infrastructure Services Committee, indicating a need for careful consideration of the financial implications for local groups.

Local Projects Receive Funding Boost

The Buchan Area Project Grant Fund saw five applications approved, totalling £9,874.82. This funding will support initiatives from Longside Football Club to Maud Village Trust, demonstrating a commitment to grassroots community development.

Planning Applications Under Review

Several planning applications were considered, including a dwellinghouse near Mintlaw, which was recommended for approval as a departure from policy due to its greenfield location. An application for a dwellinghouse and outbuilding at Burnhead, St Fergus, was recommended for refusal due to the incorporation of greenfield land, with a site visit agreed. An application for a cabin and mobile sauna at Port Erroll Harbour was deferred for further information on traffic concerns. These decisions reflect the council's role in balancing development needs with environmental and community considerations.

• See the Buchan Area Committee agenda and reports: Buchan Area Committee

Local Review Body Considers Planning Appeals

The Local Review Body met on Friday, 25 September 2026, to consider a series of planning review applications. The committee reviewed its Public Sector Equality Duty, ensuring that decisions are made with due regard to equality and non-discrimination.

The agenda included four new planning review applications, covering diverse issues such as replacement doors in a conservation area, the erection of dwellinghouses in rural and coastal settings, and the change of use of a building to form a dwellinghouse. These reviews are crucial for providing a mechanism for individuals to appeal planning decisions, ensuring fairness and transparency in the planning process. The committee also reviewed a spreadsheet highlighting relevant policies from the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan and the National Planning Framework 4, providing a clear policy context for each application.

• See the Local Review Body agenda and reports: Local Review Body

Other Matters

• Garioch Area Committee: Met on Tuesday, 22 September 2026. The committee discussed a revised festive lights policy, the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, and received an update on the Garioch Area Committee Budget. Concerns were raised about the financial burden of the festive lights policy on communities.
  • Garioch Area Committee meeting

This week in Aberdeenshire:

Inchmarlo Housing Development Sparks Debate Over Hotel Viability and Phasing

The Marr Area Committee met on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, and grappled with a controversial decision regarding the phasing of housing development at Inchmarlo Site OP2. The committee approved a masterplan for the site, which is intended to expand the Inchmarlo Continuing Care Community. However, a key decision involved granting planning permission for a revised phasing of housing development to facilitate the construction of a hotel.

This decision to allow the final 15 housing units at East Mains to be built before the hotel has been met with significant concern from local community councils. They argue that this move, driven by the developer's need for funding, is a form of salami slicing – a gradual chipping away at the original agreement. The core issue is the perceived lack of progress on the hotel itself, which has been part of the development plans for many years.

• The Stakes for the Community: Residents fear that by releasing more housing units, the council is enabling the completion of housing without the promised economic benefits of the hotel. This could leave the community with increased housing pressure on local services, such as healthcare facilities in Banchory, and potentially more cars on rural roads, without the anticipated job creation and tourism boost from the hotel. The community councils have expressed a lack of confidence that the hotel will ever be built, citing the long history of delays and the developer's own acknowledgement of viability concerns.
• Developer's Argument: The developer, Kirkwood Homes, and the hotel project lead, Inchmarlo Farms Limited, argue that releasing the 15 units is crucial for generating the necessary capital to progress the hotel development. They state that over £9 million has already been invested in the project, and the capital receipt from the housing sale will be directly reinvested into the hotel's design, funding, and procurement. They contend that this revised phasing is a commercially realistic step towards delivering the approved five-star resort, which they believe will bring significant long-term benefits to the local economy.
• Council's Position: Planning officers recommended approving the application, arguing that amending the phasing condition makes sense. They believe it continues to support the project, which was initially supported as a departure from the development plan due to its economic benefits. Releasing the 15 houses is seen as a step closer to realising those benefits, while still retaining safeguards, such as holding back a further 10 houses until the hotel is operational. However, the decision was not unanimous, with strong reservations expressed by local members and community representatives about the hotel's actual delivery.

The debate highlights the complex balancing act faced by the council: supporting economic development and housing delivery while ensuring that community concerns about the long-term viability of major projects and the impact on local infrastructure are adequately addressed.

• See the full details of the Marr Area Committee meeting: Marr Area Committee

Business Services Committee Reviews Financial Performance and Policy Updates

The Business Services Committee met on Thursday, 17 September 2026, to review the council's financial performance and consider updates to several key policies. The committee noted a forecast underspend of £1.865 million against the revenue budget for Business Services, though further analysis is needed to determine if this is recurring.

Key Policy Updates and Their Impact

Several policy changes were discussed, with potential implications for residents and businesses:

• Non-Domestic Rates Relief for Investment Zone: A proposed policy for Non-Domestic Rates relief within the North East Scotland Investment Zone was considered. This aims to encourage investment in green energy and digital technology sectors by offering eligible businesses relief for up to five years. This could stimulate local economic growth and create jobs, particularly in emerging industries.
• Council Tax Premiums on Empty Properties and Second Homes: The committee reviewed and approved a revised Council Tax policy. This policy allows Aberdeenshire Council to increase premiums on long-term empty properties and second homes, potentially generating additional revenue that could be reinvested in local services. The council had previously agreed to increase the premium to 200% (a total 300% charge) from 1 September 2026. This measure aims to encourage the use of empty properties and discourage the proliferation of second homes, which can impact housing availability for local residents.
• Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary Relief and Empty Properties: Revised policies for Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary Relief and Empty Property Relief were presented. These updates aim to provide clearer criteria for awarding relief to charities, sports clubs, and businesses in hardship, as well as outlining a phased approach to discounts and premiums for empty non-domestic properties. The intention is to support local businesses and ensure fair application of rates.

The committee also reviewed the first annual report on the Donations Received Policy, noting £71,222 in donations received through council systems. While no misapplication of funds was identified, the review highlighted inconsistencies in recording and monitoring, leading to a proposed action plan to strengthen compliance.

• See the Business Services Committee agenda and reports: Business Services Committee

Gypsy/Traveller Sub-Committee Discusses Housing Strategy and New Legislation

The Gypsy/Traveller Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, to discuss progress on the Local Housing Strategy concerning Gypsy/Travellers and the implications of new legislation. A key focus was the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, which classifies local authority Gypsy/Traveller sites as protected sites from April 2026.

Enhanced Rights and Security for Residents

This new legislation brings residents of council-run Gypsy/Traveller sites under a strengthened statutory framework, granting them enhanced rights and security of tenure. This is a significant development, aiming to improve living conditions and provide greater stability for these communities.

However, the report highlighted potential challenges for Aberdeenshire Council, including:

• Legal Compliance: Ensuring all policies and agreements align with the new legislation.
• Financial Pressures: Potential increased costs associated with enhanced rights and site management.
• Operational Complexity: Adapting site management policies and rent-setting arrangements.
• Reputational Risks: Managing expectations and ensuring fair application of the new framework.

A particular challenge was noted at the Greenbanks site, where strengthened security of tenure might limit the council's ability to require residents to leave seasonal pitches during winter months, despite concerns about coastal overtopping and storm events. This raises questions about balancing resident rights with site safety and management needs.

The committee also reviewed progress on the Gypsy/Traveller Action Plan, covering themes such as accommodation, social security, employment, and tackling discrimination. The report indicated that the Gypsy/Traveller Site Provision Strategy is due for review in 2026, with a workshop planned to involve stakeholders in discussing the future of council-run sites.

• See the Gypsy/Traveller Sub-Committee agenda and reports: Gypsy/Traveller Sub-Committee

Banff and Buchan Area Committee Addresses Housing Investment and Festive Lights

The Banff and Buchan Area Committee met on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, discussing the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032 and reviewing proposals for the Festive Lights Policy.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan: Balancing Town and Rural Needs

The committee provided comments on the draft SHIP, which outlines Aberdeenshire Council's priorities for affordable housing investment. The plan proposes delivering 76 affordable homes in the Banff and Buchan area, with a focus on social rent properties. Councillors raised concerns about ensuring rural areas are not overlooked and questioned the contingency plans for construction delays, given the current challenges in the construction sector. The committee stressed the need for a strategic approach that benefits both town centres and rural communities, and for closer collaboration with developers on challenging sites.

Festive Lights Policy: Cost Implications Under Scrutiny

Proposals for a revised Festive Lights Policy were discussed, aiming to allow community-led installations on any street, provided safety and infrastructure are suitable. However, significant concerns were raised about the shift of infrastructure and electricity costs to community groups. Councillors questioned the total budget for Christmas lights, the five-year advance payment for electricity, and the potential disadvantage to smaller communities under a per capita allocation formula. The committee agreed that a further report is needed to clarify cost implications and charging mechanisms, ensuring settlements are not unfairly disadvantaged.

Other Key Decisions

The committee also approved the commencement of statutory procedures for new waiting restrictions on Charlotte Street, Fraserburgh, to facilitate a new zebra crossing. They unanimously refused a planning application for a battery energy storage system on Boothby Road, Fraserburgh, citing its inappropriate location and failure to comply with development policies. A further £100,000 grant offer from Ocean Winds for coastal communities was also accepted.

• See the full Banff and Buchan Area Committee agenda and reports: Banff and Buchan Area Committee

Other Matters

• Employees' Joint Consultative Committee: Met on Friday, 18 September 2026. This committee focuses on matters affecting council employees and their working conditions.

  • Employees' Joint Consultative Committee meeting

• Business Services Committee: Met on Thursday, 17 September 2026. The agenda included a review of financial performance and budget risks for 2026/27, and discussions on policies related to non-domestic rates, council tax, and corporate charging.

  • Business Services Committee meeting

• Gypsy/Traveller Sub-Committee: Met on Wednesday, 16 September 2026. The committee reviewed progress on the Local Housing Strategy concerning Gypsy and Traveller accommodation and discussed the implications of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025.

  • Gypsy/Traveller Sub-Committee meeting

• Marr Area Committee: Met on Tuesday, 15 September 2026. Key items included a masterplan for housing development at Inchmarlo, a review of the Festive Lights Policy, and an update on the Aboyne Bridge project. The committee also considered the Strategic Housing Investment Plan for 2027-2032.

  • Marr Area Committee meeting

• Banff and Buchan Area Committee: Met on Tuesday, 15 September 2026. The agenda included planning applications, a review of the Festive Lights Policy, and the Strategic Housing Investment Plan.

  • Banff and Buchan Area Committee meeting

This week in Aberdeenshire:

Council Grapples with Major Wind Farm Plans Amidst Local Concerns

Aberdeenshire Council's Audit Committee met on Thursday, 10 September 2026, reviewing a range of internal and external audit reports. While the council's overall governance framework was deemed adequate, several audits highlighted significant weaknesses, particularly in areas impacting local communities and the council's operational efficiency.

The North East of Scotland Investment Zone Joint Committee convened on Friday, 11 September 2026, to discuss strategies for economic development, including plans to retain non-domestic rates to fund investment in green energy and digital technology. However, the meeting also revealed potential programme slippage and financial risks, impacting the delivery of these ambitious goals.

Meanwhile, a Pre-determination Hearing on Wednesday, 09 September 2026, brought to light deep-seated concerns from residents and community councils regarding the onshore infrastructure for the Bowdun Offshore Wind Farm. Issues of cumulative impact, landscape alteration, and the protection of private water supplies dominated the discussion, highlighting the tension between national renewable energy targets and local environmental and community well-being.

Bowdun Wind Farm: Local Voices Raise Alarm Over Infrastructure Impacts

The pre-determination hearing for the Bowdun Offshore Wind Farm's onshore infrastructure revealed significant local opposition, with residents and community councils voicing strong objections. Concerns centred on the potential for cumulative impacts from multiple energy projects in the Fetteresso Forest area, leading to the industrialisation of the countryside.

• Landscape and Visual Impact: Objectors argued that the proposed substation, described as being the size of 27 football pitches, would be a permanent and intrusive feature, visible from roads and viewpoints, irrevocably altering the rural character. The loss of mature forestry, which provides habitat for protected species like nightjars and Scottish crossbills, was also a major concern.
• Private Water Supplies and Hydrology: Residents expressed serious worries about the impact of extensive excavation on their private water supplies. The applicant's assurance that problems could be dealt with when they arise was deemed unacceptable, with calls for robust mitigation and baseline monitoring before any approval.
• Construction Traffic and Noise: The potential for disruption from construction traffic on unsuitable local roads and the impact of operational noise on residential amenity were also key concerns.
• Cumulative Impact Assessment: A recurring theme was the inadequacy of assessing projects in isolation. Objectors argued that the combined impact of the Bowdun substation, the nearby Hurley substation, and other proposed energy infrastructure would create an industrial energy complex, contradicting local development plans and community expectations.

The applicant, Thistle Wind Partners, emphasised that the application was for Planning Permission in Principle (PPP), meaning detailed designs would be developed later. They highlighted mitigation measures, including underground cabling, a maximum height restriction for the substation, and commitments to community wealth building and STEM education programmes. However, objectors felt that crucial details were lacking and that the cumulative impact had not been adequately addressed.

The application will proceed to the Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee for views before a final determination by the Infrastructure Services Committee.

• See the full details of the Bowdun Offshore Wind Farm onshore infrastructure hearing: Pre-determination Hearing

Audit Committee Flags Major Risks in Museums and Moderate Risks in Social Care

The Audit Committee meeting on Thursday, 10 September 2026, revealed a mixed picture of the council's internal controls. While the overall governance framework was deemed adequate, several specific audits flagged significant concerns.

• Museums Service: An audit of the Museums Service identified major risks and limited assurance, with substantial gaps in strategic plans, policies, record keeping, and preservation. This raises serious questions about the safeguarding of Aberdeenshire's cultural heritage.
• Children's Homes and Care Homes: Audits of Children's Home Governance and Care Home Governance both received moderate risk ratings and reasonable assurance. However, specific issues were identified, including a severe risk regarding purchase card use in children's homes and concerns about strategic planning and resource management in care homes. These findings are critical for the wellbeing of vulnerable residents.
• Integration Joint Board (IJB): The audit of the IJB Governance and Controls also noted a moderate risk rating, with concerns about budget monitoring and financial sustainability. Given the IJB's role in overseeing health and social care, robust governance is essential for effective service delivery.

The committee also reviewed audits of Voluntary Severance and Place Strategy Implementation, which identified procedural weaknesses. While the council's overall financial health was presented as stable, these audit findings highlight the need for continuous improvement in operational management and oversight.

• See the full Audit Committee agenda and reports: Audit Committee

North East Scotland Investment Zone: Strategy and Financial Risks Discussed

The North East of Scotland Investment Zone Joint Committee met on Friday, 11 September 2026, to discuss strategies for economic growth, including a proposed Non-Domestic Rates Retention Strategy. This strategy aims to reinvest growth in non-domestic rates to support the development of green energy and digital technology clusters.

However, the meeting also highlighted potential programme slippage and financial risks. An estimated £10.8 million underspend against the revised profile for 2026-27 was noted, with a carry-forward cap of 30%. Furthermore, a significant concern is the potential reclassification of up to £19.6 million of grant expenditure from capital to revenue, which could impact the programme's financial profile and its ability to meet required splits. These financial challenges could slow down vital economic development initiatives, potentially affecting job creation and regional growth in key sectors.

• Review the North East of Scotland Investment Zone Joint Committee agenda: North East of Scotland Investment Zone Joint Committee

Other Matters

• Educational Trust Sub-Committee: Met on Friday, 11 September 2026, to review the financial position of the Aberdeenshire Educational Trust (AET) and consider grant funding awards. The committee also considered its Public Sector Equality Duty.

  • Educational Trust Sub-Committee meeting

• Marr Area Committee: Scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 15 September 2026. Key items include a masterplan for the Inchmarlo site, a review of the Festive Lights Policy, and the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. Planning applications for developments in Inchmarlo and Drumnagarrow, and an update on the Aboyne Bridge project, were also on the agenda.

  • Marr Area Committee meeting

• Business Services Committee: Scheduled to meet on Thursday, 17 September 2026. The agenda includes a review of financial performance and budget risks for 2026/27, updates on Non-Domestic Rates and Council Tax policies, and a report on donations received.

  • Business Services Committee meeting

• Gypsy/Traveller Sub-Committee: Scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 16 September 2026. The committee will review the Local Housing Strategy concerning Gypsy/Travellers, including updates on the Gypsy/Traveller Action Plan and the implications of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025.

  • Gypsy/Traveller Sub-Committee meeting

• Buchan Area Committee: Scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 22 September 2026. The agenda includes planning applications, a review of the Festive Lights Policy, and the Strategic Housing Investment Plan.

  • Buchan Area Committee meeting

• Garioch Area Committee: Scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 22 September 2026. Key items include a review of the Festive Lights Policy and the Strategic Housing Investment Plan for 2027-2032, along with an update on the Garioch Area Committee Budget.

  • Garioch Area Committee meeting

• Harbours Sub-Committee: Scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 23 September 2026. The agenda includes a progress report on the Macduff Harbour Economic Development Implementation Plan and a discussion on the Public Sector Equality Duty.

  • Harbours Sub-Committee meeting

• Clinical and Adult Social Work Governance Committee: Scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 23 September 2026.

  • Clinical and Adult Social Work Governance Committee meeting

• Aberdeenshire Council: The full council is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 24 September 2026.

  • Aberdeenshire Council meeting

• Employees' Joint Consultative Committee: Scheduled to meet on Friday, 18 September 2026.

  • Employees' Joint Consultative Committee meeting

• Local Review Body: Scheduled to meet on Friday, 25 September 2026.

  • Local Review Body meeting

• Banff and Buchan Area Committee: Scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 15 September 2026. The agenda includes planning applications, a review of the Festive Lights Policy, and the Strategic Housing Investment Plan.

  • Banff and Buchan Area Committee meeting